bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Serial Nitrogen‐Doped Metal/Carbon Composites Derived from Organic Salts for Superior Electromagnetic Wave Absorption and Supercapacitor Electrode
Authors: Xu Xiaodan , Qu Henghui , Wang Yanxiang , Wang Chengjuan , Wu Simeng , Wang Chengguo
Published: July 2024

The present study provides a facile one‐pot pyrolysis strategy to prepare serial nitrogen‐doped (N‐doped) metal/carbon composites derived from six types of metal ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA‐M, M = Co, Cu, Mn, Fe, Mg, and Ca). N‐doped Co/C composite integrated carbonaceous with magnetic components to attain dielectric‐magnetic double loss mechanisms. The minimum reflection loss and effective absorption bandwidth reached −57.6 dB at 1.75 mm and 4.64 GHz at 1.52 mm, respectively. The electromagnetic simulation further confirms that the dissipation ability increases with the improvement of carbonization temperature. Results show that altering the metal species of precursors can significantly improve the electrochemical performance of the composites using the identical strategy. N‐doped Cu/C composite performed a maximum specific capacitance of 2383.3 F g−1 at 0.5 A g−1−1, and maintained 86.3% cycling stability at 20 A g−1 after 5000 cycles. The energy density of a symmetrical two‐electrode configuration achieved 350.13 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 4000.04 W kg−1. Density functional theory calculations indicate that nitrogen dopants cause faster ion transport and stronger adsorption capacity. Moreover, the bifunctionality of other composites types are also systematically characterized.
A Multi‐functional Hybrid System Comprised of Polydopamine Nanobottles and Biological Effectors for Cartilage Repair
Authors: Hao Min , Xia Younan
Published: July 2024

Biological effectors play critical roles in augmenting the repair of cartilage injuries, but it remains a challenge to control their release in a programmable, stepwise fashion. Herein, a hybrid system consisting of polydopamine (PDA) nanobottles embedded in a hydrogel matrix to manage the release of biological effectors for use in cartilage repair is reported. Specifically, a homing effector is load in the hydrogel matrix, together with the encapsulation of a cartilage effector in PDA nanobottles filled with phase‐change material. In action, the homing effector is quickly released from the hydrogel in the initial step to recruit stem cells from the surroundings. Owing to the antioxidation effect of PDA, the recruited cells are shielded from reactive oxygen species. The cartilage effector is then slowly released from the nanobottles to promote chondrogenic differentiation, facilitating cartilage repair. Altogether, this strategy encompassing recruitment, protection, and differentiation of stem cells offers a viable route to tissue repair or regeneration through stem cell therapy.
Resetting the Drift of Oxygen Vacancies in Ultrathin HZO Ferroelectric Memories by Electrical Pulse Engineering
Authors: Jan Atif , Fraser Stephanie A. , Moon Taehwan , Lee Yun Seong , Bae Hagyoul , Lee Hyun Jae , Choe Duk‐Hyun , Becker Maximilian T. , MacManus‐Driscoll Judith L. , Heo Jinseong , Di Martino Giuliana
Published: July 2024

Ferroelectric HfO2‐based films incorporated in nonvolatile memory devices offer a low‐energy, high‐speed alternative to conventional memory systems. Oxygen vacancies have been rigorously cited in literature to be pivotal in stabilizing the polar noncentrosymmetric phase responsible for ferroelectricity in HfO2‐based films. Thus, the ability to regulate and control oxygen vacancy migration in operando in such materials would potentially offer step changing new functionalities, tunable electrical properties, and enhanced device lifespan. Herein, a novel in‐ operando approach to control both wake‐up and fatigue device dynamics is reported. Via clever design of short ad hoc square electrical pulses, both wake‐up can be sped up and both fatigue and leakage inside the film can be reduced, key factors for enhancing the performance of memory devices. Using plasmon‐enhanced photoluminescence and dark‐field spectroscopy (sensitive to <1% vacancy variation), evidence that the electrical pulses give rise to oxygen vacancy redistribution is provided and it is shown that pulse engineering effectively delays wake‐up and reduces fatigue characteristics of the HfO2‐based films. Comprehensive analysis also includes impedance spectroscopy measurements, which exclude any influence of polarization reversal or domain wall movement in interpretation of results.
Green and Scalable Preparation of an Isomeric CALF‐20 Adsorbent with Tailored Pore Size for Molecular Sieving of Propylene from Propane
Authors: Deng Zhenning , Yang Longsheng , Xiong Hanting , Liu Junhui , Liu Xing , Zhou Zhenyu , Chen Shixia , Wang Yanan , Wang Hao , Chen Jingwen , Deng Shuguang , Chen Banglin , Wang Jun
Published: July 2024

Molecular sieving of propylene (C3H6) from propane (C3H8) is highly demanded for C3H6 purification. However, delicate control over aperture size to achieve both high C3H6 uptake and C3H6/C3H8 selectivity with low cost remains a significant challenge. Herein, a green and scalable approach is reported for preparing an isomeric CALF‐20 adsorbent, termed as NCU‐20, using water as the only solvent with a cost of $10 per kilogram. NCU‐20 features a contracted pore size (4.2 × 4.7 Å2) compared to CALF‐20 (5.2 × 5.7 Å2), which enables molecular sieving of C3H6 (4.16 × 4.65 Å2) from C3H8 (4.20 × 4.80 Å2). Notably, NCU‐20 exhibits record‐high C3H6 adsorption capacity (94.41 cm3 cm−3) at 298 K and 1.0 bar, outperforming all C3H6/C3H8 molecular sieving adsorbents. The sieving performances of C3H6/C3H8 are well maintained at elevated temperatures. Therefore, a delicate balance between C3H6 adsorption capacity (91.62 cm3 cm−3) and C3H6/C3H8 selectivity (uptake ratio of 22.2) is obtained on NCU‐20 at 298 K and 0.5 bar. Furthermore, dynamic breakthrough experiments demonstrate a high productivity of 65.39 cm3 cm−3 for high‐purity C3H6 (>99.5%) from an equimolar C3H6/C3H8 gas‐mixture.
Blind competition on the numerical simulation of slabs reinforced with conventional flexural reinforcement and fibers subjected to punching loading configuration
Authors: Barros Joaquim A. O. , Sanz Beatriz , Filho Marcílio , Kabele Petr , Yu Rena C. , Meschke Günther , Planas Jaime , Cunha Vitor , Neu Gerrit E. , Caggiano Antonio , Gouveia Ventura , Ozyurt Nilüfer , Poveda Elisa , van den Bos Ab , Červenka Jan , Gal Erez , Rossi Pierre , Dias‐da‐Costa Daniel , Juhasz Peter K. , Cendón David , Ruiz Gonzalo
Published: July 2024

This paper describes the 3rd Blind Simulation Competition (BSC) organized by the fib WP 2.4.1 which aims to assess the predictive performance of models based on the finite element method (FEM) for analysis and design of fiber reinforced concrete (FRC) structures submitted to loading and support conditions that promote punching failure mode. Fiber reinforcement is used in an attempt to eliminate conventional punching reinforcement and provide technical and economic advantages. The two tested real‐size prototypes represent a column‐slab interior region of an elevated steel‐fiber reinforced concrete (E‐SFRC) slab where anti‐progressive collapse reinforcement is disposed in the alignment of columns/piles. Despite a punching failure surface being formed in both experimentally tested prototypes at the rupture stage, fiber reinforcement was able to mobilize the yield capacity of the conventional flexural reinforcement, providing high deformation capacity, and ductility to the prototypes. The average post‐peak load‐carrying capacity of the tested prototypes at a deflection seven times higher than the deflection at yield initiation of the conventional reinforcement was still 90% of the average peak load. Regarding the BSC, a total of 26 proposals were received and involved 94 participants from 29 institutions and 17 countries, with 53.9% using smeared crack models (SCMs), 30.8% a concrete damage plasticity (CDP) model, 3.8% discrete crack models (DCMs) and 11.5% considered as “other models.” From these simulations it was verified, in average terms, that SCM assured the best predictive performance apart from the average strain in the SFRC and the maximum crack width which were better predicted by DCM. More accurate predictions were obtained by using in‐house software than by adopting commercial software.
A generalized van Genuchten model for unsaturated soil hydraulic conductivity
Authors: Ghorbani Asghar , Sadeghi Morteza , Tuller Markus , Durner Wolfgang , Jones Scott B.
Published: July 2024

The hydrodynamics of variably saturated soils or porous media in general are described via nonlinear functions of water retention and hydraulic conductivity, which facilitate the simulation of various mass and energy transport processes (e.g., water, heat, contaminants, colloids) within the porous medium. We set out to derive improved functions for more accurate estimations of soil hydraulic functions to advance the simulation of porous medium hydrodynamics. A new model is proposed for estimating the unsaturated hydraulic conductivity (UHC) from a soil water retention (SWR) function that is parameterized via nonlinear regression of measured data. The function can be viewed as a generalized van Genuchten (1980) model (GVG). We tested the new SWR and UHC expressions for numerous data sets from literature that cover a wide range of soil textures. Our comparisons reveal more accurate estimations using the GVG model by comparison with the original van Genuchten model.
The limits of “resilience”: Relationalities, contradictions, and re‐appropriations
Authors: Davies Jonathan S. , Arrieta Tania
Published: July 2024

The concept of “resilience” is ubiquitous in global governance, extending from climate and ecological issues to practically all spheres of human endeavor. However, post‐pandemic discourses suggest that the concept may no longer be capable of synthesizing diverse and diverging geopolitical interests into common policy goals. Responding to what we see as an emerging “crisis of resilience,” we reconsider the utility of the concept and advance “irresilience” as its critical relational “other.” We argue that to make resilience meaningful in a “polycrisis,” it is necessary to think about it dialectically and consider how it is undermined by the very actors that evangelize it.

This article is categorized under:

International Policy Framework > Policy and Governance

Climate, History, Society, Culture > Disciplinary Perspectives

The Social Status of Climate Change Knowledge > Knowledge and Practice

Climate and Development > Sustainability and Human Well‐Being
Recent trends and developments in protection systems for microgrids incorporating distributed generation
Authors: Ashraf Sobia , Hasan Osman , Evkay Ibrahim , Selamogullari Ugur S. , Baysal Mustafa
Published: July 2024

Microgrids are integral to power grids; they enhance grid reliability by integrating distributed generators (DGs) to fulfill the local load requirements, lowering energy generation costs, and providing eco‐friendly energy resources to reduce carbon emissions. Despite their benefits, new capabilities also introduce protection‐related complexities, including bidirectional power flow, varying fault currents, false tripping, relay reach limitations, coordination issues, and the requirement for proper grounding. This article offers a detailed review of protection issues in AC, DC, and hybrid AC–DC microgrids, investigating existing approaches to address these issues. Furthermore, the constraints and hurdles associated with these approaches and the future trends and intelligent approaches required to develop a reliable and efficient protection strategy are also identified in this article.

This article is categorized under:

Energy and Power Systems > Microgrids

Energy and Power Systems > Distributed Generation
Business Model Innovation Capability: A Game Changer for Sustaining a Firm’s Edge
Authors: Zott Christoph , Amit Raphael , Giesen Edward
Published: July 2024

Developing business model innovation capability is a game changer which allows companies to stay at the top of their game in a rapidly changing world. To maintain their firm’s competitive edge, managers must continuously evaluate the extent to which there is a fit between their company’s business model, market needs, and the external environment. In this chapter, we are proposing a three-phase, interrelated, and mutually reinforcing process framework for building a business model innovation capability. When carried out repeatedly and mindfully over multiple business model innovation initiatives, the process enables managers to build their firm’s business model innovation capability. Our chapter highlights the strategic role of design as a cornerstone for building a firm-level capability, not just as a practical tool for innovation. It also provides practitioners with an actionable framework for business model innovation.
The Catalytic Role of Sustainability Transitions for Business Models
Authors: Lüdeke-Freund Florian , Wells Peter , Aagaard Annabeth
Published: July 2024

In the dynamic realm of global business and the pressing climate crisis, the need for sustainability transitions has become a pivotal catalyst for change, fundamentally reshaping the core tenets of companies’ business models. In this chapter, we delve into the notion of sustainability transitions and discuss the dynamic interplay between business models and the broader socio-technical contexts in which they operate. The chapter argues that sustainability transitions are a game-changing lens through which businesses can understand, respond to, and influence the changing world around them. This leads to reflections on the nature of so-called business models for sustainability transitions (BMfST), which might become a new breed of sustainability-oriented business models. The chapter concludes with illustrations of three categories of business models which represent antecedents of future BMfST, as well as a set of tentative principles for thinking about business model design catalysed by sustainability transitions.
Business Model Theory and the Becoming of New Mobile Communications Technologies
Authors: Ahokangas Petri , Atkova Irina , Yrjölä Seppo , Matinmikko-Blue Marja
Published: July 2024

Extant research falls short of explaining and predicting business model innovation (BMI) in emerging futuristic technology contexts. Building on next-generation mobile communications technology (6G), this research develops and explicates a forward-looking business model theory. It explains and theorizes BMI by systematically linking opportunity with scalability, value with sustainability, and advantage with replicability as antecedents and outcomes. The developed business model theory shifts the focus from the firm towards an ecosystem level of analysis and expands the time continuum from retrospection to forward-looking prediction. The business model theory allows researching BMI not only as an adaptation in a context but also by explaining and understanding the development of a firm and its future ecosystem.
Study on Fatigue Damage Characteristics of a Cement-Stabilized Soil for the Composite Foundation of Immersed Tunnels
Authors: Wang Xiang-qiu , Feng Tian-jun , Lei Guo-ping
Published: July 2024

Composite foundations involving cement-stabilized soils are often adopted for immersed tunnels. In this paper, the cumulative damage characteristics of cement-stabilized soil were studied considering long-term traffic vibration loads. In total, four sets of dynamic fatigue damage tests with different cement contents and stress levels were carried out by applying an asymmetric sine-wave cyclic dynamic load. The fatigue cumulative damage characteristics and damage failure modes of the cement-stabilized soil were analyzed based on Miner's linear elastic fatigue cumulative damage theory. The correlation between the cyclic loading stress levels and the fatigue life Nf of the cement-stabilized soil was obtained, revealing the fatigue damage developing characteristics of the cement-stabilized soil.
Study on Wave Velocity Under Different Uniaxial Loading Conditions of Weathered Granite
Authors: Li Bo , Xiao Wei , Li Jun , Zhao Bo , Chen Hui , Zhang Chi , Sun Qi , Bai Youliang
Published: July 2024

Rock strength is an important parameter for rock mass quality evaluation, engineering design, and construction. However, engineering excavation causes rock damage and decreases in rock mass strength. Rock damage is closely related to its acoustic properties during the fracture process. Therefore, in order to obtain the rock stress and damage characteristics of granite during the uniaxial loading failure process under different weathering conditions, rock samples with different weathering degrees were carried out using a triaxial testing machine and wave velocity acquisition equipment. Uniaxial loading and acoustic parameter testing experiments. The test results show that the weathering and integrity of rocks can be characterized by comprehensive parameters such as density, wave speed and wave speed ratio; the elastic deformation stage characteristics of different weathered rocks during uniaxial loading are very significant, and there is an inflection point effect in the rock strength and wave speed curves, but due to Due to the influence of micro-joints and cracks inside the rock, the wave speed value does not completely correspond to the strength of the rock. A new damage variable is established based on rock density and integrity, which can characterize the rock loading failure damage process and has a clearer physical meaning.
Numerical Simulation of Ultimate Bearing Capacity of Corroded Pipeline under Coupling Load
Authors: Xu Tong , Sun Wei , Tan Wenyu , Feng Shuai
Published: July 2024

Based on the ductile damage theory of metal materials, this paper systematically studies the ultimate bearing capacity of corroded pipeline subjected to axial force, bending moment and pressure by using fluid cavity simulation technology. For pipelines with different corrosion characteristics, the interaction diagram of the bearing capacity of corroded pipeline is established by considering the coupling effect of medium properties, pressure, external axial force and bending moment. The numerical simulation results show that the depth of corrosion strongly affects the bearing capacity of corroded pipeline. With the increase of defect depth, the N-M ( axial force and bending moment ) interaction curve of corroded pipeline gradually flattened. And the results can truly reflect the damage phenomenon.
Study on the Durability of Silica Fume Concrete in High Sulfate Environment of Plateau
Authors: Chen Zhimin , Zhang Zheng , Yi Mingyang , Yuan Qianlong , Wang Dianqiang , Liu Junhui
Published: July 2024

To investigate the effect of sulfate corrosion on the compressive strength of silica fume concrete under freeze-thaw conditions, different concretes with silica fume contents of 0%, 5%, 10%, and 15% were exposed to dry-wet erosion with 5% sulfate, freeze-thaw cycles with clear water, and dry-wet erosion with 5% sulfate followed by freeze-thaw cycles for a period of 75 days. The changes in compressive strength under different conditions and at different time intervals were analyzed. The results indicate that the extent of strength damage follows the order: dry-wet+freeze-thaw>freeze-thaw>dry-wet. The combined effect of dry-wet+freeze-thaw accelerates the deterioration of concrete strength. As the silica fume content increases, the rate of concrete compressive strength loss gradually stabilizes. For the 0% and 5% silica fume concretes, the loss of strength under the combined effect of dry-wet+freeze-thaw is more pronounced for 60 days. However, as the silica fume content increases beyond 5%, the rate of strength loss decreases by more than 10%. Therefore, the increase in silica fume content leads to a decrease in the rate of concrete strength loss.
Research on the Selection Model of Apron In-Ground Pit Based on Utility Tunnel Technology
Authors: Ouyang Jie , Song Zhiying , Qiao Xueqing , Li Xiaowei
Published: July 2024

This paper studies the selection of apron in-ground pits locations, using the Analytic Hierarchy Process to identify key factors influencing the selection of apron in-ground pits locations. It establishes a multi-objective optimization model for apron in-ground pits locations based on utility tunnel technology, considering the construction distance cost, the human resource cost, and the in-ground pits installation cost. The model is validated through simulation using particle swarm optimization algorithm. The results show that the proposed model can achieve the integration of apron in-ground pits. Compared with the existing pit system at Zhuhai Airport, the total cost has reduced by approximately 50.4%, 52.97%, and 34.01% for the three different aircraft parking stand layouts, respectively. This can provide guidance for the application of utility tunnel in airport construction, promote the improvement of apron operation efficiency and unmanned apron realization, and contribute positively to the development of green airports.
Stability Analysis of Surrounding Rock in Portal Section of Plateau Loose Rock Pile Tunnel Under Different Construction Methods
Authors: Chen Zhimin , Yi Mingyang , Zhang Gengwang , Zhang Zheng
Published: July 2024

Rock pile is a rock block formed by weathering of bedrock, and its stability is lower than that of other rock and soil. Therefore, there are numerous difficulties in the construction of tunnels through rock pile. In this paper, TBM method, three step method and CD method are chosen as the basis of tunnel stability analysis, and the numerical model of surrounding rock excavation stability of tunnel passing through rock pile is established. In this paper, the tunnel excavation is simulated by numerical simulation software, and the stability analysis of tunnel under different construction methods is performed. Combined with the engineering background and calculation analysis, compared with the three construction methods, it is found that the CD method has the strongest comprehensive protection for tunnel construction and is a more suitable construction method for crossing the rock pile tunnel.
Mitigating Underestimation in Infiltration Cooling Load in Metro Stations: A Simulation Method for Determination
Authors: Guan Bowen , Yang Haobo , Wang Xinke
Published: July 2024

Accurate and rational estimation of cooling loads is crucial for the energy-efficient design of ventilation and air-conditioning systems in metro stations, contributing significantly to the low-carbon development of metro systems. This study conducted a comparative analysis between the cooling load estimates from design drawings and the actual measurements obtained on-site. The results revealed a significant underestimation, ranging from 81.0% to 87.5%, of the cooling load attributed to air infiltration through entrances during the design phase. To address this misestimation, a simulation method is proposed, utilizing a combined application of STESS software and Fluent software. The findings demonstrate that employing this simulation method can effectively mitigate the misestimation, reducing it to a range of 8.3% to 50.2%.
Growth dynamics and climate sensitivities in alpine cushion plants: insights from Silene acaulis in the Swiss Alps
Authors: Rai Samresh , Breme Nikola , Jandova Veronika , Lanta Vojtech , Altman Jan , Ruka Adam Taylor , Rixen Christian , Dolezal Jiri
Published: July 2024

Understanding alpine plants’ growth dynamics and responses to warming is essential for predicting climate change impacts on mountain ecosystems. Here, we examine growth determinants in the alpine cushion plant Silene acaulis in the Swiss Alps, exploring ontogeny, elevation, and climate influences. We collected 40 Silene individuals and 159 individuals from 38 co-occurring alpine species across 2200–3130 m elevations in the Swiss Alps, analyzing age and growth histories through annual growth rings. While comparing growth rates, we found that Silene was relatively slow-growing. However, Silene exhibited a dual growth strategy, initially rapid and then slowing after ~ 20 years, challenging perceptions of its longevity. Similar ontogenetic trends were observed in other alpine species, albeit with variations based on species and elevation. The consistent unimodal growth-elevation pattern in Silene and other alpine plants, peaking at ~ 2400 m, underscores shared environmental constraints on alpine plant growth. Additionally, cross-dating growth ring series and correlating with daily climate data enabled the precise assessment of warming impacts on growth. Silene’s growth is influenced by year-to-year climate variability, with warming-induced moisture stress and overheating during spring and summer adversely affecting its growth. Despite being low-statured, Silene is not completely decoupled from atmospheric influences. The heat-trapping function of Silene, effective in mature and well-formed cushions, makes it susceptible to adverse effects as temperatures rise. This sensitivity raises concerns about the potential dieback of Silene cushions, as witnessed during recent heatwaves, and emphasizes the broader ecological implications for alpine ecosystems, given Silene’s role as a crucial nurse plant.
An approach to modelling defocusing and keyhole reflectivity in keyhole laser processes
Authors: Stavropoulos Panagiotis , Pastras Georgios , Tzimanis Konstantinos , Bekiaris Theodoros , Souflas Thanassis
Published: July 2024

Keyhole laser-based processes have been adopted widely due to the high-quality welds and cuts that they produce and the accurately controlled dimensions of the end part. Fast-running simulation tools are required in order to estimate the dependence of process outputs, efficiency, and stability on the process variables. This work presents a fast-running simulation tool for keyhole laser-based processes with inert or no assisting gas that takes into account the effect of laser beam defocusing and the alteration of the effective reflectivity of the material due to the keyhole cavity. The model is built upgrading a successful model for the thermal phenomena based on finite differences and the enthalpy method. The presented model is compared to experimental results for the laser cutting process with both CO$$_2$$

2

and fiber laser sources and inert assisting gas. The model accurately predicts cutting depth and kerf, heat-affected zone width, and the dependence of the cutting depth on the position of the focal plane. The model manages to achieve reduced computational time enabling its utilization in process digital twins.
Interactions between lipid oxidation and anthocyanins from black carrots in ω-3 fatty acid-rich flaxseed oil-in-water emulsions
Authors: Klinger Evelyn , Salminen Hanna , Bause Karola , Weiss Jochen
Published: July 2024

The application of anthocyanins as red colorants in lipid-containing foods such as oil-in-water emulsions is challenging due to their ability to act as antioxidants and their instability under various environmental conditions. In this study, we investigated the kinetics of black carrot anthocyanin degradation and the subsequent color loss influenced by lipid oxidation reactions in 1% (w/w) flaxseed oil-in-water emulsions stabilized by 0.1% (w/w) sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) at pH 2 upon storage at 35 °C for ten days under light and in the dark. Oxidatively stable Miglyol oil-in-water emulsions and SDS solutions were used as reference. The results showed simultaneous formation of lipid hydroperoxides and degradation of anthocyanins. The addition of anthocyanins decreased lipid hydroperoxide formation, confirming the antioxidant activity of anthocyanins through radical scavenging mechanism. The kinetic modelling of lipid oxidation and anthocyanin degradation are particularly important for estimating color stability in colored emulsion-based food systems such as dairy or non-dairy milk or yoghurt drinks.

Graphical abstract
Erroneous saccade co-execution during manual action control is independent of oculomotor stimulus-response translation ease
Authors: Kürten Jens , Raettig Tim , Huestegge Lynn
Published: July 2024

Recent multiple action control studies have demonstrated difficulties with single-action (vs. dual-action) execution when accompanied by the requirement to inhibit a prepotent additional response (e.g., a highly automatic eye movement). Such a dual-action performance benefit is typically characterized by frequent false-positive executions of the currently unwarranted response. Here, we investigated whether the frequency of false-positive saccades is affected by the ease of translating a stimulus into a spatial oculomotor response (S-R translation ease): Is it harder to inhibit a saccade that is more automatically triggered via the stimulus? Participants switched on a trial-by-trial basis between executing a single saccade, a single manual button press, and a saccadic-manual dual action in response to a single visual stimulus. Importantly, we employed three different stimulus modes that varied in oculomotor S-R translation ease (peripheral square > central arrow > central shape). The hierarchy of S-R translation ease was reflected by increasing saccade and manual reaction times. Critically, however, the frequency of false-positive saccades in single manual trials was not substantially affected by the stimulus mode. Our results rule out explanations related to limited capacity sharing (between inhibitory control and S-R translation demands) as well as accounts related to the time available for the completion of saccade inhibition. Instead, the findings suggest that the erroneous co-activation of the oculomotor system was elicited by the mere execution of a (frequently associated) manual response (action-based co-activation).
Zebrafish: unraveling genetic complexity through duplicated genes
Authors: Tasnim Maliha , Wahlquist Preston , Hill Jonathon T.
Published: July 2024

The zebrafish is an invaluable model organism for genetic, developmental, and disease research. Although its high conservation with humans is often cited as justification for its use, the zebrafish harbors oft-ignored genetic characteristics that may provide unique insights into gene structure and function. Zebrafish, along with other teleost fish, underwent an additional round of whole genome duplication after their split from tetrapods—resulting in an abundance of duplicated genes when compared to other vertebrates. These duplicated genes have evolved in distinct ways over the ensuing 350 million years. Thus, each gene within a duplicated gene pair has nuanced differences that create a unique identity. By investigating both members of the gene pair together, we can elucidate the mechanisms that underly protein structure and function and drive the complex interplay within biological systems, such as signal transduction cascades, genetic regulatory networks, and evolution of tissue and organ function. It is crucial to leverage such studies to explore these molecular dynamics, which could have far-reaching implications for both basic science and therapeutic development. Here, we will review the role of gene duplications and the existing models for gene divergence and retention following these events. We will also highlight examples within each of these models where studies comparing duplicated genes in the zebrafish have yielded key insights into protein structure, function, and regulation.
Postoperative outcomes and stimulation responses for sectioned nerve roots during selective dorsal rhizotomy in cerebral palsy
Authors: Makoshi Ziyad , Islam Monica , McKinney Jennifer , Leonard Jeffrey
Published: July 2024

Background

Cerebral palsy (CP) is the most cause of motor dysfunction in children. Selective dorsal rhizotomy (SDR) plays a major role in long term spasticity control. However, limited data exists on the effect of SDR on postoperative spasticity treatment requirements and supraspinal effects, and the stimulation responses of dorsal nerve roots in those with CP.

Methods

The current study included the outcome for 35 individuals undergoing SDR for motor functional outcome, spasticity, baclofen dose changes, botulinum toxin injection frequency, and spasticity related orthopedic procedures. We also report on the stimulation responses in 112 individuals who underwent SDR at our institution.

Results

There was a significant difference in gross motor function measures (GMFM)-66 scores at last follow up that remained present when considering only ambulatory children but not with non-ambulatory children. Ashworth scores were significantly decreased for both upper and lower extremities after SDR at all follow up points. There was a significant decrease in Baclofen dose and botulinum toxin injections requirements after SDR, but no significant difference in the need for orthopedic intervention. A total of 5502 dorsal nerve roots were tested showing a decrease in stimulation intensity and increase in grade on the right side and for descending lumbosacral levels.

Conclusions

SDR improves gross motor scores during short term follow up but has additional benefits in decreasing baclofen dosing and botulinum toxin injections requirements after surgery. They stimulation responses of sectioned dorsal nerve roots adds to the limited available data and our understanding of the pathological changes that occur in CP.
A comparative evaluation of the role of olfaction in attachment
Authors: Cox Emma , Collins-Pisano Courtney , Montgomery Lane , Katz Jeffrey S.
Published: July 2024

Olfactory information plays an important role in the attachment and bonding processes for both humans and non-human animals. Odor cues obtained via individual body odor facilitate attachment and bonding processes across species with regard to both mate selection and mother-infant bonding. The purpose of the present paper is to summarize the role of odor as it pertains to bond formation and maintenance in the mother-infant bond for human infants and non-human animal infants, and for mate selection among human adults and non-human animals. We then synthesize this summary with literature on attachment and existing evidence for the relationships between olfaction and attachment processes. Finally, we suggest avenues for areas of future research.
Reorganization of brain connectivity across the spectrum of clinical cognitive decline
Authors: Yüksel Dal Demet , Yıldırım Zerrin , Gürvit Hakan , Kabakçıoğlu Alkan , Acar Burak
Published: July 2024

Clinical cognitive decline, leading to Alzheimer’s Disease Dementia (ADD), has long been interpreted as a disconnection syndrome, hindering the information flow capacity of the brain, hence leading to the well-known symptoms of ADD. The structural and functional brain connectome analyses play a central role in studies of brain from this perspective. However, most current research implicitly assumes that the changes accompanying the progression of cognitive decline are monotonous in time, whether measured across the entire brain or in fixed cortical regions. We investigate the structural and functional connectivity-wise reorganization of the brain without such assumptions across the entire spectrum. We utilize nodal assortativity as a local topological measure of connectivity and follow a data-centric approach to identify and verify relevant local regions, as well as to understand the nature of underlying reorganization. The analysis of our preliminary experimental data points to statistically significant, hyper and hypo-assortativity regions that depend on the disease’s stage, and differ for structural and functional connectomes. Our results suggest a new perspective into the dynamic, potentially a mix of degenerative and compensatory, topological alterations that occur in the brain as cognitive decline progresses.
Jointly exploring mathematics ability and speed in large-scale computer-based testing
Authors: Bungaro Luca , Desimoni Marta , Matteucci Mariagiulia , Mignani Stefania
Published: July 2024

In large-scale tests, the implementation of computer-based testing (CBT) allows to automatically collect data not only on the students’ response accuracy (RA) based on item responses of the test, but also on their response time (RT). RTs can provide a more comprehensive view of a test-taker’s performance beyond just what is obtainable based on correct responses alone. In this paper a joint approach is considered to improve the estimation of ability scores involving complex data coming from computer-based test administration. The study focuses on analysing the data of Italian grade 10 mathematics national assessment administered by the National Institute for the Evaluation of the Education and Training System (INVALSI). In addition, a bivariate multilevel regression with speed and ability estimates, obtained by joint model, is developed including individual covariates to evaluate the contribution of individual and contextual variables in predicting test-taking speed and ability. Overall, the main results indicate that mathematics ability and speed are significantly and negatively correlated, and that the hierarchical data structure (students nested into classes) should be taken into account when explaining the dependency of ability and speed on explanatory variables, such as prior achievement, test anxiety, sociodemographic covariates, class compositional variables, school tracks and geographical area.
Evolution of research related to how a sedentary lifestyle influences the aging process: a bibliometric review
Authors: Cabo Carolina A. , Hernández-Beltrán Víctor , Gamonales José M. , Parraca José A. , Fernandes Orlando , Espada Mario C.
Published: July 2024

Aim

The world’s population suffers greatly from sedentary lifestyles, which are becoming more common as a result of factors such as a lack of easily accessible places to exercise, a rise in sedentary work practices such as office work, and the pervasive use of television and video devices. Consequently, associated health problems are escalating. The primary goal of this study was to examine the state and features of current trends in international publications regarding the effects of sedentary behavior on the elderly.

Subject and methods

A bibliometric analysis spanning the years 1994–2022, identifying a total of 311 documents, was carried out using the Web of Science Core Collection.

Results

The findings showed an exponential increase of 79% from 1997 to the present. The most productive journal categories, authors, and countries were Geriatrics & Gerontology and Public, Environmental & Occupational Health; authors S. Amagasa, N. Fukushima, S. Inoue, and H. Kikuchi; and the United States, respectively. Considerable variation was found in the keywords; “aging” and “sedentary lifestyle” were the most frequent terms, with 97 and 37 instances, respectively.

Conclusion

Maximum investment in programs promoting physical activity is necessary to improve quality of life as people age. Participants’ mental health will improve as a result of these programs, and their risk of illness will decrease.
A flexible multiscale algorithm based on an improved smoothed particle hydrodynamics method for complex viscoelastic flows
Authors: Ren Jinlian , Lu Peirong , Jiang Tao , Liu Jianfeng , Lu Weigang
Published: July 2024

Viscoelastic flows play an important role in numerous engineering fields, and the multiscale algorithms for simulating viscoelastic flows have received significant attention in order to deepen our understanding of the nonlinear dynamic behaviors of viscoelastic fluids. However, traditional grid-based multiscale methods are confined to simple viscoelastic flows with short relaxation time, and there is a lack of uniform multiscale scheme available for coupling different solvers in the simulations of viscoelastic fluids. In this paper, a universal multiscale method coupling an improved smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) and multiscale universal interface (MUI) library is presented for viscoelastic flows. The proposed multiscale method builds on an improved SPH method and leverages the MUI library to facilitate the exchange of information among different solvers in the overlapping domain. We test the capability and flexibility of the presented multiscale method to deal with complex viscoelastic flows by solving different multiscale problems of viscoelastic flows. In the first example, the simulation of a viscoelastic Poiseuille flow is carried out by two coupled improved SPH methods with different spatial resolutions. The effects of exchanging different physical quantities on the numerical results in both the upper and lower domains are also investigated as well as the absolute errors in the overlapping domain. In the second example, the complex Wannier flow with different Weissenberg numbers is further simulated by two improved SPH methods and coupling the improved SPH method and the dissipative particle dynamics (DPD) method. The numerical results show that the physical quantities for viscoelastic flows obtained by the presented multiscale method are in consistence with those obtained by a single solver in the overlapping domain. Moreover, transferring different physical quantities has an important effect on the numerical results.
Theoretical Investigation of Propylene Epoxidation Using H2 and O2 Over Titanosilicate-Supported Au Catalysts
Authors: Hamada Yasutaka , Yonemori Tomohisa , Ishimaru Yuhki , Kawakami Takashi , Yamanaka Shusuke , Okumura Mitsutaka
Published: July 2024

Titanosilicate-supported Au-cluster catalysts can be used to selectively synthesize propylene oxide from propylene using O2 and H2. However, the details of the catalytic reaction mechanism have not yet been elucidated. Thus, the reaction mechanism was investigated using density functional theory calculations. The calculation results revealed that active Ti-OOH forms on the surface Ti site, which is active as an oxidant and acts as an anchorage site for Au nanoclusters. The rate-determining step of propylene oxide synthesis on Au/titanosilicate is O insertion into propylene, with an activation energy of 1.37 eV. The propylene involved in this reaction is activated by adsorption on Au nanoclusters. Moreover, it was also found that the formation of Ti-OOH on Au/titanosilicate requires an activation energy of 0.48 eV, while it is barrierless on Au/anatase-TiO2. However, the decomposition energy of Ti-OOH on Au/titanosilicate is −0.16 eV, which is smaller than that on Au/anatase-TiO2 (−1.12 eV). The results indicate that Ti-OOH decomposes more readily on Au/titanosilicate than on Au/anatase-TiO2 but is easily regenerated because the reaction energy is significantly smaller than that on Au/anatase-TiO2. Therefore, these calculations are qualitatively in good agreement with the experimental results for Au/titanosilicate, which exhibited high catalytic activity at high temperatures.

Graphical Abstract
The SSIS SEL Brief Scales – Student Form: Examining the Structural Validity of a Portuguese Version
Authors: Ganicho Ana , Magalhães Sofia , Limpo Teresa , Lemos Marina S. , Alves Diana
Published: July 2024

Background

Despite the increased use of social and emotional learning (SEL) programs, empirical research is hindered by lengthy assessment options, difficult to fit into educational contexts. To cover these needs, the Social Skills Improvement System SEL Brief Scales – Student Form (SSIS SELb-S) was developed. Although it has been translated into several languages, a Portuguese version with sound psychometric properties is still missing.

Objective

This study aimed to develop the Portuguese version (SSIS SELb-Spt) and to examine its psychometric properties. METHODS: After translating the original SSIS SELb-S to Portuguese, the instrument was administered to 200 5th graders, along with self- and hetero-report measures of school well-being and involvement, peer acceptance, and academic achievement. We examined the SSIS SELb-Spt factorial validity and reliability, tested its correlations with external correlates, and examined the instruments’ predictive validity.

Results

Results supported a three-factor structure of the scale, which included the dimensions of intrapersonal and interpersonal skills, and responsible decision-making. Correlations with external correlates were in the expected direction. Moreover, the scale predicted school involvement and later academic achievement.

Conclusion

This study seems to corroborate and extend previous knowledge about the validity of SSIS SELb-S, offering validity and reliability evidence on the scale’s three-factor structure.
Explainable and interpretable machine learning and data mining
Authors: Atzmueller Martin , Fürnkranz Johannes , Kliegr Tomáš , Schmid Ute
Published: July 2024

The growing number of applications of machine learning and data mining in many domains—from agriculture to business, education, industrial manufacturing, and medicine—gave rise to new requirements for how to inspect and control the learned models. The research domain of explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) has been newly established with a strong focus on methods being applied post-hoc on black-box models. As an alternative, the use of interpretable machine learning methods has been considered—where the learned models are white-box ones. Black-box models can be characterized as representing implicit knowledge—typically resulting from statistical and neural approaches of machine learning, while white-box models are explicit representations of knowledge—typically resulting from rule-learning approaches. In this introduction to the special issue on ‘Explainable and Interpretable Machine Learning and Data Mining’ we propose to bring together both perspectives, pointing out commonalities and discussing possibilities to integrate them.
Anchoring as a Structural Bias of Deliberation
Authors: Braun Sebastian Till , Rad Soroush Rafiee , Roy Olivier
Published: July 2024

We study the anchoring effect in a computational model of group deliberation on preference rankings. Anchoring is a form of path-dependence through which the opinions of those who speak early have a stronger influence on the outcome of deliberation than the opinions of those who speak later. We show that anchoring can occur even among fully rational agents. We then compare the respective effects of anchoring and three other determinants of the deliberative outcome: the relative weight or social influence of the speakers, the popularity of a given speaker’s opinion, and the homogeneity of the group. We find that, on average, anchoring has the strongest effect among these. We finally show that anchoring is often correlated with increases in proximity to single-plateauedness. We conclude that anchoring can constitute a structural bias that might hinder some of the otherwise positive effects of group deliberation.