bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THE GERMAN SOLDIERS AND FRENCH CIVILIANS DURING THE FRANCO-GERMAN WAR, 1870–1871
Authors:   Saint Petersburg State University, Bodrov Andrei , Vlasov Nikolay ,   Saint Petersburg State University
Published: December 2024

The article identifies the most common forms of interaction between the German military personnel and the French civilians in the occupied territories of France in 1870–1871, as well as the reasons why this interaction took one form or another. The authors note the variety of forms of this interaction. Ordinary French people were not ready for mass self-sacrifice, but cases of collaboration were extremely rare. The German military authorities, in turn, did not seek to inflict maximum suffering on the French population and relied on cooperation rather than repression. As a result, spinning the spiral of mutual mass violence during the war of 1870–1871 was largely avoided. The authors identify a number of key factors that influenced the nature of the relationship between the occupiers and the occupied in each specific case. First, the immediate context of the military situation: conflict forms were more often observed in the battle zone. Secondly, the political context: a change in attitudes towards the degree of involvement of the population in the war after the Republican Government of National Defense came to power in Paris and the response of the German command. Thirdly, the factor of the general military situation, growing fatigue from the war and the increasing predetermination of its outcome. Fourthly, the factor of mutual perception of the French and Germans, far from demonizing and dehumanizing the enemy. The fifth factor was the duration of contact. Finally, there are geographical and class factors, due to which the conflict forms were more often characteristic of the urban lower and middle strata of French society.
SETTLEMENT STRUCTURE OF THE BAKHMUTINO ARCHAEOLOGICAL CULTURE POPULATION ON THE EXAMPLE OF THE BIRSK MICRODISTRICT
Authors:   Institute of Ethnological Research named after R. G. Kuzeev Ufa Federal Research Centre of the RAS, Kolonskikh Alexander
Published: December 2024

The publication is a continuation of the author’s work on the study of settlements using the landscape archeology and GIS methods. The source base for the study was data from the Bakhmutino culture sites on the territory of the Birsk microdistrict (Republic of Bashkortostan). This microdistrict is relatively well studied archaeologically and can be used as a testing ground for spatial analysis methods. The work was done on the basis of free software, as well as digital data from remote sensing of the Earth’s surface, which are publicly available on the Internet. Calculations were made using a digital elevation model. The main material for the study was geographical data, relief and landscape data. All calculations and cartography of monuments were made in a freely distributed, professional geographic information system “QGIS”. An important conclusion from the use of spatial analysis tools and GIS systems is the identification of clusters of sites, that is, second-level associations, within the microdistricts under study. As in previous studies, not only hillforts, but also unfortified settlements became the central place of individual cluster. Attempts to model the settlement system probably indicate that the largest and most central settlements could exist for a relatively long time. Smaller objects with an insignificant cultural layer were not long-lasting and could well be associated with the specifics of farming by the Bakhmutino population.
Methods of managing an automated mobile system
Authors: Kalashnikova Vasylysa
Published: December 2024

Subject matter: Description of existing management methods for an automated mobile system, particularly a swarm of bots. Goal: To conduct a comparative analysis of centralized, decentralized, and distributed management methods to identify their advantages and disadvantages. Tasks: To study various approaches to managing a swarm of bots, analyze their efficiency, reliability, and applicability in different fields. Methods: Theoretical analysis of existing approaches, modeling, and simulation to assess their performance and reliability. The research includes the use of genetic algorithms, swarm algorithms, and artificial potential fields for managing bot trajectories. Results: The conducted analysis shows that centralized methods provide high accuracy and coordination but have limited fault tolerance and scalability. Decentralized methods offer greater flexibility and robustness but may have coordination issues between nodes. Distributed methods provide high autonomy and adaptability but require a reliable communication infrastructure. Genetic algorithms and swarm algorithms are effective for planning bot trajectories but have high computational costs. Conclusions: The use of different management methods depends on the specific requirements and conditions of the task. Centralized methods are suitable for tasks where precision and coordination are important, decentralized methods for tasks requiring flexibility and robustness, and distributed methods for tasks needing autonomy and adaptability. Future research should focus on integrating different approaches to enhance the efficiency and reliability of bot swarm management systems.
Including a pressure dependent relation between static and dynamic elastic moduli in a Finite Element deformation model of Grímsvötn Volcano, Iceland
Authors: Greiner Sonja Heidi Maria , Geirsson Halldór
Published: December 2024

Surface deformation is an important tool for studying active volcanoes. Numerical deformation models can consider irregular features like crustal heterogeneity and avoid biases due to oversimplification. Dynamic elastic moduli can be derived from seismic velocities, but the static moduli apply to deformation studies since strain amplitudes and time scales differ. There is however no commonly acknowledged relation between the two. We implemented a Finite Element deformation model for the Icelandic subglacial volcano Grímsvötn, including bedrock topography and a 3D elastic structure. Dynamic elastic moduli, derived from seismic tomography and density structures, were converted into static moduli via an empirical pressure-dependent relation. The model requires a deformation source at 3–4.5 km depth, and a co-eruptive pressure changes of 8–70 MPa to fit deformation observed during the 2011 eruption at Grímsvötn. Larger source depths compared to previous deformation studies show the importance of considering crustal heterogeneity and static moduli in deformation models.
Double-action electrodynamic retarder system
Authors: Borodenko Yuriy
Published: December 2024

Problem: Issues related to increasing the performance characteristics of braking systems due to the use of car deceleration systems are considered. A structural analysis of car deceleration systems was performed according to a number of classification features: the system action mechanism; the principle of action and means of controlling the retarder; and the method of connecting the retarder brake. Ways of improving retarders based on the electrodynamic principle of construction are noted. The importance of improving the energy indicators of the pre-intermediate braking system due to the use of recuperative methods of self-sufficiency is emphasized. The Relevance of the study is determined by the increase in the number of motor vehicles involved in freight transportation in mountainous terrain. The Goal of the study is to improve the braking characteristics of the car's deceleration system under the conditions of a long descent. The research Methodology includes the improvement of the retarder design and the scheme of the braking force control system. Based on the results of the study, a classification structure of car deceleration systems was compiled; a qualitative analysis of the technical and operational characteristics of the generator-type electromagnetic retarder with axial magnetic flux was made; a technical solution for an electrodynamic retarder is proposed, which comprises two electric machines that provide a double-action braking moment, using recovered energy. The need for a quantitative assessment of the power balance of the double machine's components is identified, which allows optimization of the mass-dimensional indicators of the combined unit for the determined braking force of the deceleration system. Scientific Originality: The trend of transforming the composition of the power plant of a car with a passive electromagnetic retarder into a moderate and even full hybrid scheme is highlighted. The Practical Value of the research is demonstrated through recommendations that can be useful in the design of new systems and adaptation of existing deceleration systems of motor vehicles, which are mainly operated in mountainous terrain.
Perbaikan Postur dan Fasilitas Kerja Menggunakan Metode Biomekanika dan Niosh Pada PT XYZ
Authors: Sugiarto Hernanda Bambang , Perdana Surya
Published: December 2024

PT XYZ merupakan perusahaan swasta yang bergerak di bidang ekspedisi pengiriman barang, terdapat beberapa masalah yang menyebabkan pekerjannya mengalami rasa tidak nyaman di area tubuh khusus yang di akibatkan oleh posisi kerja yang tidak optimal dan kurangnya fasilitas yang memadai dalam proses bongkar muat. Tujuan penelitian ini untuk mengetahui cidera dominan yang dialami para pekerja, usulan perbaikan postur kerja, dan usulan rancangan fasilitas pada pekerja bongkar muat. Metode yang digunakan Biomekanika dan NIOSH dengan bantuan aplikasi 3D SSPP. Pada penelitian ini meneliti postur tubuh pekerja, usulan perbaikan postur kerja, serta usulan rancangan fasilitas kerja. Penelitian ini dilakukan karena terdapat keluhan dari para pekerja yang sering mengalami cidera. Dari hasil penelitian ini, ditemukan bahwa cidera yang paling umum dialami oleh para pekerja yang melakukan bongkar muat adalah pada daerah punggung dan bagian bawah lengan. Hasil dari saran perbaikan terkait postur kerja menunjukkan bahwa sudut yang dihasilkan adalah 50 derajat pada telapak tangan, 43 derajat pada lengan bawah, 58 derajat pada lengan atas, 49 derajat pada punggung, 57 derajat pada bagian perut, dan 21 derajat pada paha dapat mengurangi resiko terjadinya cidera. Selain itu, saran perbaikan fasilitas yang diajukan adalah penggunaan trolley tangan juga dapat mengurangi resiko cidera serta dapat meningkatkan produktivitas pekerja.
2D train-track-bridge interaction analysis considering the effect of ballasted tracks
Authors: Duc Tran Le Anh , Nam Phan Hoang , My Nguyen Van , Quang Tran Dinh , Paolacci Fabrizio
Published: December 2024

This paper investigates the effect of ballasted tracks on the dynamic interaction between train, track, and bridge systems. A 2D interaction model is developed, incorporating detailed representations of the bridge, train, and track, with and without ballasted tracks. The Cat Linh - Ha Dong urban railway line on a simply supported bridge in Hanoi is used as a case study to perform parametric analysis, evaluating how variations in track parameters influence the dynamic responses of the bridge, train, and track. The numerical results reveal a significant dynamic vertical coupling between the bridge decks, highlighting the critical importance of including ballasted tracks in the modeling process of these structures.
Analytical study of flexural behavior of various components utilizing the formwork panels made of high-strength concrete
Authors: Rin Tran Van , Hai Nguyen Minh , Nam Phan Hoang , Huong Nguyen Van , Phuong Pham Ngoc , Thuy Mai Thi Thu , Fujikura Shuichi
Published: December 2024

Using a new generation formwork system made from high-strength concrete is an advanced construction approach, not only reducing construction time but also improving the surface quality and enhancing the load-bearing capacity of reinforced concrete (RC) structures. This study aims to investigate the flexural behavior of RC components when using the novel formwork system was investigated to clarify its effectiveness in enhancing the flexural performance. For this purpose, a series of simulations with different scenarios corresponding to flexural components, including columns, beams, walls, and floors, were conducted. The results show that high-strength concrete formwork combined with stainless steel or FRP-reinforced materials helps increase the flexural capacity of the resulting components. Ensuring the bond between the formwork layer and the in-situ concrete is essential to maintain the loading-bearing behavior for thin components such as floors and walls because it significantly affects the effective cross-section of the element.
Damping effect of double friction pendulum bearings for civil buildings subjected to earthquakes considering vertical excitation forces
Authors: Hoa Hoang Phuong
Published: December 2024

Earthquakes pose significant threats to humanity, with recent years witnessing an increase in both the intensity and frequency of seismic events worldwide. To mitigate the damage caused by earthquakes, various techniques have been developed. This article focuses on the application of Double Friction Pendulum (DFP) bearings for base isolation in three-story steel construction projects. The authors develop a system of differential equations describing the motion of the structural system equipped with DFP bearings. The Runge-Kutta numerical method, specifically the ode15s function in MATLAB, was used to solve these equations. The results of the calculations provide a comparison of the damping efficiency of the structural system with and without the use of DFP bearings, assessing the effectiveness of vibration isolation during an earthquake, with three components X, Y, and vertical considered.
Experimental study on the permeability of light transmitting concrete using optical fibers and transparent polymer rods
Authors: Huy Ly Quang , Nam Huynh Phuong , Hai Nguyen Minh , Tuan Nguyen Duc , Huong Nguyen Van
Published: December 2024

This study focuses on analyzing the permeability of light transmitting concrete (LTC) using plastic optical fibers (POF) and transparent Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) rods with varying diameters and content within the concrete. Experiments were conducted on both thin plate samples to test water penetration time, water absorption and permeability, as well as on cylindrical samples to assess the waterproof grade of the material. Subsequently, a waterproofing layer using a Siloxane-based material layer was applied to the concrete samples. The experimental results shown that using small-diameter optical fibers results in lower permeability compared to using large-diameter PMMA rods. This is because the bond between the optical fibers and the concrete is better than that when using PMMA rods. Additionally, increasing the content of PMMA rods significantly increased the water permeability of the material.
Free vibration analysis of graphene-reinforced FGM microplates under different boundary conditions
Authors: Loi Nguyen Van , Binh Chu Thanh
Published: December 2024

This paper analyzes the free vibration of micro-sized plates placed on the Winkler-Pasternak elastic foundation. The microplate is made from functionally graded material (FGM) and reinforced with graphene nanoplatelets (GPLs). The properties of the new material (GPL-reinforced FGM) are determined using the Halpin-Tsai model and the rule of mixtures. The governing equation for the free vibration of the micro-sized plate on the elastic foundation is developed based on a four-variable plate theory, the modified couple stress theory, and the Rayleigh-Ritz approach. The solution is compared and validated against existing studies, followed by an investigation of the effects of various parameters (material parameters, size-dependent effect, boundary conditions, and foundation coefficients) on the natural frequency of the microplate.
Machine learning applications for chloride ingress prediction in concrete: insights from recent literature
Authors: Truong Quynh-Chau , Vu Anh-Thu Nguyen
Published: December 2024

Chloride corrosion significantly impacts the durability of reinforced concrete (RC) structures. Traditional evaluation methods are time-consuming and expensive. Machine Learning (ML) offers a promising alternative, providing efficient and accurate predictions. This review explores recent ML advancements in assessing corrosion in RC structures. Various algorithms, such as Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs), Gene Expression Programming (GEP), Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost), Support Vector Machine (SVM) and Ensemble Learning, have shown potential in estimating corrosion processes, predicting material properties, and evaluating structural durability. Future research should focus on integrating ML with physical models to enhance robustness and reliability in service life prediction. This review summarizes current trends, challenges, and the future potential of ML in predicting chloride ingress and its impact on concrete durability.
Numerical simulation on the seismic performance of PC utility poles on shinkansen viaduct using AEM and FEM
Authors: Phan Thanh Ngoc , Hosoda Akira , Salem Hamed , Yamada Mikihisa
Published: December 2024

The 2011 Tohoku earthquake caused severe damage to various infrastructures in the Tohoku region of Japan. Particularly, prestressed concrete (PC) utility poles on Shinkansen viaducts sustained significant damage, leading to prolonged service disruptions. To better understand the structural behavior and failure mechanisms of these poles, JR East company initiated a series of experimental investigations to examine their bending capacity and failure modes under cyclic loading. This research aims to numerically simulate the performance of the tested PC utility poles using Applied Element Method (AEM) and Finite Element Method (FEM). The simulation results demonstrate that both AEM and FEM effectively reproduce the load-displacement relationship observed in the test. Additionally, this study discusses the material models employed in simulations, considering the limitations inherent in numerical modeling. The findings provide critical insights into the structural performance of the poles under seismic loading and offer useful numerical tools for the development of retrofitting strategies.
Sensitivity analysis of factors influencing the reliability of reinforced concrete columns strengthened with Fabric-Reinforced cementitious matrix
Authors: Cong-Thuat Dang , Toan Le Khanh , My Pham , Hieu Dinh Ngoc
Published: December 2024

This paper presents a sensitivity analysis of key factors influencing the reliability of reinforced concrete columns strengthened with Fabric-Reinforced Cementitious Matrix (FRCM) with carbon fabric. Key parameters examined include axial force, concrete compressive strength, longitudinal reinforcement diameter, and stirrup diameter. Results indicate that axial force exerts the most significant impact on column reliability, with a notable increase in failure probability as axial force rises. Enhancements in concrete compressive strength and longitudinal reinforcement diameter improve reliability by reducing failure probability. Stirrup diameter and spacing are also critical for structural safety and collapse prevention. Furthermore, the analysis reveals that while higher axial force enhances the column's lateral load-bearing capacity, it concurrently reduces the structural ductility.
Study on the use of sea sand and seawater in geopolymer concrete production in Ha Tien City, Kien Giang province
Authors: TRUONG Hoai Chinh , VUONG Le Thang , LE Hoang Thinh
Published: December 2024

The article investigates the potential of using sea sand and seawater from Ha Tien City, Kien Giang Province, in geopolymer concrete production. Geopolymer concrete is an environmentally friendly material that can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions while utilizing locally available resources. The study evaluates the mechanical and chemical properties of sea sand and seawater as alternatives to river sand and freshwater, with the goal of identifying sustainable concrete production methods. The results indicate that using marine sand and seawater does not compromise the compressive strength of the concrete and may even slightly improve it in some cases. This presents both economic, environmental benefits, and opens up opportunities for wider application in Vietnam’s construction industry.
Fractures of carpal bones other than scaphoid – a narrative review
Authors:   Department of General and Hand Surgery, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Poland, Żyluk Andrzej
Published: December 2024

Fractures of the carpal bones are less common than fractures of the metacarpals and phalanges. The triquetrum and scaphoid are the most commonly affected bones, while injuries to other bones are less prevalent. The study aimed to provide updated information on carpal bone fractures other than the sca­phoid, focusing on the incidence, fracture mechanism and pattern, diagnosis, methods, and treatment results. Each wrist bone fracture was thoroughly discussed in relation to these aspects. Additionally, the study presented the results of a literature review conducted in PubMed and Medline databases. In conclusion, fractures of the carpal bones other than the scaphoid are moderately common, with conser­vative treatment being the primary approach. Both conservative and surgical treatments yield good results.
A female with severe knee osteoarthritis and tibial pseudoarthrosis after stress fracture treated with knee endoprosthesis and tibial plating. Case report
Authors:   Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland, Stępień Gabor , Żyliński Marcin ,   Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland, Trzeciak Tomasz ,   Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
Published: December 2024

Stress fracture of the lower extremity is a significant cause of decreased mobility in orthopedic patients.  With repetitive stress on the bone tissue of the lower extremities, stress fractures occur in 50% of the cases, primarily involving the tibia. This article presents a method of managing the pseudoarthrosis of the tibia resulting from a stress fracture of the shinbone of a patient with advanced degenerative changes in both knee joints. This article presents the case of a 69-year-old woman with advanced degenerative changes in both knee joints and a significant varus deformity of both lower limbs.  She developed a stress fracture in the proximal part of the left tibia, resulting in the formation of pseudoarthrosis. The authors describe
a simultaneous left knee joint total knee replacement (TKR) procedure with limb axis correction using
a long tibial stem (tibial extension) passing through the pseudoarthrosis and rotational stabilization of the tibia with an osteo-plate.
Simulation of Ciona’s Motor Ganglion
Authors: Piekarz Katarzyna , Stolfi Alberto
Published: December 2024

Here we present a simulation of Ciona’s motor ganglion (MG), which includes the core MG components (MN, MGIN, AMG, ddN), as well as additional cell populations, such as ACIN, PMGN, mt, and BTN. Upon delivering a stimulus to the right ddN, left-side MNs produce a spike, which is consistent with a reorienting tail flick that a larva would perform during the escape behavior. After altering the connectivity of ddNs, so that the ddNs no longer project contralaterally, but ipsilaterally, the motor response becomes perturbed. The simulation recapitulates described in the literature larva’s escape behavior, and represents a starting point for further explorations of MG firing patterns.
Novel Algorithmic Framework for Ransomware Detection via Contextual Flow Anomaly Mapping
Authors: Whitrock Rachel , Middlethorpe Cassian , Castlefield Barnaby , Whitlock Lysandra
Published: December 2024

Emerging cyber threats require advanced frameworks capable of identifying and mitigating highly sophisticated attack vectors. The proposed detection methodology leverages Contextual Flow Anomaly Mapping to dynamically analyze behavioral patterns, allowing precise identification of malicious activity, including ransomware variants such as LockBit and REvil. By integrating machine learning algorithms with advanced feature extraction and dimensionality reduction techniques, the framework achieves a balance between high detection accuracy and computational efficiency. Scalability and modularity enhance its applicability across diverse environments, ranging from resource-constrained systems to enterprise networks, while maintaining consistent performance metrics. Experimental evaluations demonstrate robust detection capabilities, low latency under heavy network loads, and effective memory utilization. Comprehensive analysis of behavioral features highlights the adaptability of the approach in detecting obfuscated and fileless ransomware activities. The framework’s comparison with traditional detection models reveals significant advancements in sensitivity and specificity, offering a viable solution to real-time security challenges. Insights into energy efficiency and the handling of high-speed encryption scenarios demonstrate its practicality for modern digital ecosystems. This research introduces a powerful mechanism to reinforce cybersecurity resilience through proactive and adaptive measures, significantly mitigating the risks posed through evolving ransomware tactics.
Necessary Skill or Off-Loading Learning? Incorporating Generative AI into a Writing-Intensive Undergraduate Course
Authors: Tate Tamara Powell , Harnick-Shapiro Beth , Ritchie Daniel , Tseng Waverly , Dennin Michael , uci mark warschauer
Published: December 2024

As generative AI becomes ubiquitous, writers must decide if, when, and how to incorporate generative AI into their writing process. Educators must sort through their role in preparing students to make these decisions in a quickly evolving technological landscape. We created an AI-enabled writing tool that provides scaffolded use of a large language model as part of a research study on integrating generative AI into an upper division STEM writing-intensive course. Drawing on decades of research on integrating digital tools into instruction and writing research, we discuss the framework that drove our initial design considerations and instructional resources. We then share our findings from a year of design-based implementation research during the 2023-24 academic year. We end with suggestions for those implementing generative AI into other writing-intensive courses and an indication of our future directions.
An Integrative Theory of Dark Energy, Dark Matter, and Consciousness Linking Quantum Mechanics and General Relativity
Authors: RAMHARACKSINGH BRIAN
Published: December 2024

The two most significant theories of the twentieth century, Quantum Mechanics (QM) and Einstein’s Theory of General Relativity (GR), are currently the best explanations for our observable universe. Despite this, there are gaps in our knowledge, such as quantum gravity, dark energy, dark matter, consciousness, and the measurement problem, to name a few. The “Integrative Theory” provides a comprehensive explanation that untangles the web of these unknowns into one unified framework. This is achieved by proposing a cosmogenesis that offers solutions to the nature of dark energy, dark matter, and consciousness, demonstrating how their interactions have and can produce the standard model of particle physics of Quantum Mechanics (QM), the curved spacetime of General Relativity (GR), and the Consciousness of beings. It also resolves several other problems, such as the matter-antimatter asymmetry, the fine structure constant, the Hubble tension, early galaxy and supermassive black hole formation, and the hard problem of consciousness. This research aims to deepen our understanding of the physical laws governing the fabric of reality.
Blimp Technical Appendix: Nonnormal Latent Variables using the Yeo-Johnson Transformation
Authors: Keller Brian T
Published: December 2024

This technical appendix describes modeling asymmetrical nonnormal latent variables. Such asymmetrically distributed latent traits can map onto many researchers’ intuitions about the underlying beliefs about the trait in the population. Examples in the psychological literature include dark triad traits (Webster & Jonason, 2013), borderline personality disorder (Michonski, Sharp, Steinberg, & Zanarini, 2013), and self-esteem (Gray-Little, Williams, & Hancock, 1997), among others. Blimp allows for the modeling of asymmetrical latent traits via transformation methods. While any invertible transformation can be implemented, this technical appendix aims to describe the application of the Yeo-Johnson transformation (Yeo & Johnson, 2000).
Stroboscopically Induced Visual Hallucinations: Historical, Phenomenological and Neurobiological Perspectives
Authors: Hewitt Trevor , Amaya Ioanna , Beauté Romy , Seth Anil , Schmidt Timo Torsten , Schwartzman David
Published: December 2024

Exposure to rapid and bright stroboscopic light has long been reported to induce vivid visual hallucinations of colour and geometric formations. This phenomenon was first documented by Purkinje over 200 years ago. Since then, significant progress has been made in understanding the effects of stroboscopic light and the experiences it induces through multiple waves of interest from the scientific, therapeutic, and broader cultural communities. Despite these advances, fundamental questions remain unanswered, including comprehensive characterisations of its phenomenology, its precise physiological origins, under which conditions it may lead to altered states of consciousness phenomena, and potential clinical or therapeutic applications. This narrative review provides a historical summary of research into stroboscopic light stimulation alongside its use in recreation and lay-therapeutic contexts. It also discusses the phenomenology of these experiences, current perspectives on the potential neural mechanisms of stroboscopically induced experiences, and provides an outlook for future research in this field.
Dynamics of vision: Grouping takes longer than crowding
Authors: Morea Martina , Herzog Michael H. , Francis Gregory , Manassi Mauro
Published: December 2024

Vision is often understood as a hierarchical, feedforward process, where visual processing proceeds from low-level features to high-level representations, ultimately resulting in a coherent percept. Within just a few tens of milliseconds, the fundamental features of the percept are established. These traditional models are the primary framework for understanding visual crowding, a perceptual phenomenon where the perception of a target is impaired by the presence of flanking elements. In this framework, the early stages of feedforward visual processing are essential for perceiving stimuli under crowding conditions and temporal aspects are not important. In fact, experiments show that stimulus duration affects perception very little with classic crowding displays. Here, we show that for more complex displays, crowding is the outcome of highly dynamic processes. For example, a 20 ms preview of just the flankers can reduce crowding for displays with the target and the same flankers presented up to 1 second later. This effect occurs only if the flankers have the potential to group during longer stimulus durations. Our findings align with predictions made by the LAMINART model, which employs recurrent segmentation processes unfolding over time to separate objects into distinct representation layers. Taken together, our results highlight the importance of time-consuming grouping processes in spatial and temporal interactions in vision. In contrast to the classic feedforward models of vision, we propose that crowding, and vision in general, is a dynamic process in which multiple potential interpretations of a stimulus are modulated and gated by grouping mechanisms that evolve over time.
The affordance hypothesis
Authors: Baggs Edward , Raja Vicente
Published: December 2024

Affordances were introduced to psychology explicitly as a hypothesis about how meaning gets into perception. The affordance hypothesis is an alternative to the classical hypothesis that meaningful perception involves classification. According to the affordance hypothesis, patterns in ambient energy contain information about the meanings of things in the environment. The affordance hypothesis postulates that by detecting this information, the animal is able to directly detect the meaning, without any intervening act of classification or categorization. We identify two longstanding problems for affordances as an empirical research program: 1) the operationalization problem, i.e. how to study affordances without falling back into categorical thinking; 2) the discontinuity problem, i.e. how to explain the fact that humans do classify things, even if others animals do not. We discuss some possible solutions to these problems, and propose some guidelines for future empirical research.
The ‘hairs of hope’: toward a fuller understanding of the legal, material and social infrastructure of infrastructure
Authors: Valverde Mariana
Published: December 2024

The article contributes to the emerging literature on law and infrastructure by first noting that ‘the modern infrastructure ideal’ has become less relevant even in the global North, since rather than large connected networks of public utilities, public transit and other welfare-state systems taken as world leaders in many global North countries, infrastructure appears to us in the global North as a series of disconnected ‘projects’. Part of the reason for this curious appearance is that each large project often has its own credit rating and issues its own bonds.The article, which does not separate the material from the social and the legal, demonstrates that do-it-yourself or informal, inexpensive infrastructure solutions, many of which have arisen in the global South, might present a better, more timely goal for infrastructure governance than lamenting the absence of financing for major infrastructure projects of the ‘seeing like a state’ era.The article also challenges the naïve view of law held by many, which holds that the ‘secret’ of infrastructure projects is to be found in the details of the contracts awarded, which are often withheld from the public pending Freedom of Information requests. Contracts, it is argued, are only one of the dimensions of infrastructure planning and governance – along with financing and along with representations, often of future services or buildings that do not yet exist.
Communicating Science Matters: Evidence from the BASCOE Study, a quantitative study from Brain Awareness Week outreach activities
Authors: Pita Carlos , Silva Inês P. , Colaço Ana Rita , Brotas Margarida , Felgueiras Beatriz , Nogueira Beatriz , Carreira Olga , Fonseca Ana F. , Castro Mariana , Capucho Adriana , Melo Gonçalo , Martins Fatima O. , Ribeiro Gabriela , Calhau Conceição , Tenreiro Sandra , Miranda Hugo Vicente , Conde Silvia Vilares , Mendes Cesar , dos Santos Cláudia Nunes , Mendonça Nuno , Correia Maria Serrano , Gonçalves Nuno Miguel , Loncarevic-Vasiljkovic Natasa
Published: December 2024

While the importance of science communication and outreach is widely acknowledged, their impact is often overlooked or not measured. To address this question we carried a study aimed to quantitatively assess the influence of science communication and outreach activities on knowledge acquisition and retention by secondary school students during Brain Awareness Week (BAW) 2023 in Lisbon, Portugal from a population of 428 students raging from 6th to 12th grade (6-12 years of formal education). Analysis of pre- and post-event questionnaire data revealed a significant improvement in participant knowledge scores seven days post-activity compared to the baseline. These findings highlight the importance of such quantitative evaluations and underscore the pivotal role of science communication in enhancing scientific knowledge in schoolchildren.
Generational trends and predictors of hormonal contraceptive use in Germany: A machine learning approach
Authors: Nutz Theresa , Müller Nora , Chan Hao
Published: December 2024

Objective: This study examines generational trends in hormonal contraceptive use among women of three birth cohorts (1991-93, 1981-83, 1971-73) and identifies their key predictors and changes over time.Background: Since the 1960s, the birth control pill as most prominent form of hormonal contraception has shaped women’s reproductive autonomy, influencing family planning and career choices. Recent trends show a decline in hormonal contraceptive use in Western countries, but research has largely relied on cross-sectional data, leaving it unclear whether this trend reflects short-term period effects or broader cohort-driven changes.Method: Using longitudinal data from the German Family Panel (pairfam; waves 1-14), this study applies supervised machine learning to identify potential predictors of hormonal contraceptive use. 37 predictors were included, encompassing areas of family demography, gender role values, health, origin, personality, region, religiosity, and socioeconomic characteristics.Results: The analyses showed a decline in hormonal contraceptive use across all birth cohorts over time. Both cohort and period differences shaped the key predictors of hormonal contraceptive use. Predictors shifted from family-demographic factors in older cohorts to personality traits in younger ones, highlighting increasingly personalized decision-making. The relevance of income underscored the economic dimension of access to contraception. Conclusion: These shifts reflect evolving dynamics in contraceptive use, with implications for public health strategies and policymaking.
Horses’ Self-recognition in the Mirror Test. New Approach
Authors: Ilmer Ida Aleksandra , Smoleń Tomasz
Published: December 2024

This paper aims to present a new, modified mirror test procedure and to answer the question of whether the domestic horse (Equus caballus) is a self-conscious species in terms of reflexive consciousness. The new approach to the mirror test is characterised by a reduction in the animal’s exposure time to the mirror image, changes in the marker, and introduction of a control condition, which minimises the likelihood of false positive results. The sample includes 24 horses tested in two conditions. A quarter of the horses tested were able to detect a treat that was invisible to them, without seeing themselves in the mirror. This behaviour was interpreted as self-recognition. This proportion turned out to be statistically significantly different from the proportion expected in the null hypothesis, as shown by the McNemar test. In the light of the above results of the experiment and theoretical analysis of the characteristics of the species we draw a conclusion that the observed horses’ self-recognition is a likely mark of their self-consciousness.
Potential Purchasing Decision on Eco-friendly Products: A Study on Electric Motorcycle Consumers
Authors: Apriliyanto Nanang , Gilang Kharisma Putra  , Kuwatno
Published: December 2024

The aim of this study is to enhance the potential for electric motor purchases by raising public awareness of climate change, thereby supporting government climate action initiatives. This research adopts a quantitative approach, employing a survey method with purposive sampling based on predefined crite-ria. The criteria specify that respondents must be Indonesian citizens aged 17 years or older who have decided to buy an electric motorbike. This resulted in a sample size of 300 respondents. The study's data, collected through surveys, constitute the primary research data. Analysis was conducted using structural equation modeling (SEM) via the SmartPLS application. The study concludes that there is no direct rela-tionship between environmental awareness, perceived value, and green product quality and purchasing decisions for electric motor products. Conversely, there is a direct and significant positive relationship between environmental awareness, perceived value, and green product quality and trust. Furthermore, trust has a direct, meaningful, and significant impact on purchasing decisions. Additionally, the mediating effect of trust indicates that environmental awareness, perceived value, and green product quality in-fluence purchasing decisions.
Analisis Implementasi Masterplan Pengembangan Kawasan Geopark Kabupaten Sukabumi 2019 Terhadap Pemberdayaan Masyarakat Lokal Di Geopark Ciletuh – Palabuhanratu
Authors: Muqsitul Fajar Abdul Syahid , Aulia Lailatul , Rachmat R. Deden Sunmendar , Rahmafitria Fitri
Published: December 2024

Geopark atau taman bumi adalah suatu wilayah yang memiliki warisan geologi yang didukung oleh keragaman geologi, keragaman hayati dan keragaman budaya didalamnya. Pengembangan kawasan geopark haruslah menjunjung tiga pilar utama yaitu konservasi, edukasi serta peningkatan kesejahteraan masyarakat. Salah satu bentuk pengembangan geopark adalah melalui geowisata dimana kekayaan geologi yang ada dikembangkan menjadi potensi pariwisata. Selain berfokus pada aspek konservasi dan edukasi, pengembangan geowisata sendiri tentu tidak luput dari keterlibatan masyarakat lokal sebagai penggerak pariwisata di dalamnya. Oleh karena itu, pemberdayaan masyarakat menjadi penting dalam peningkatan kualitas SDM pariwisata dan meningkatkan kesejahteraan masyarakatat itu sendiri. Agar pengembangan dan pemberdayaan ini memiliki tolak ukur yang jelas, kemudian disusunlah Masterplan Pengembangan Kawasan Geopark Kabupaten Sukabumi di tahun 2019 yang lalu. Salah satu kebijakan yang tertulis adalah mengenai pedoman pemberdayaan masyarakat di Kawasan Geopark Ciletuh yang harus pro-poor, pro-growth, pro-jon dan pro-environment. Dalam penelitian ini penulis akan menggunakan penelitian metode deskriptif kualitiatif dengan instrumen wawancara dan studi literatur untuk menjelaskan serta menafsirkan apakah pedoman pemberdayaan masyarakat yang tertuang di dalam masterplan ini berhasil dijalankan. Adapun temuan dari penelitian menyebutkan bahwa meskipun beberapa strategi seperti pendampingan dan pelatihan berhasil diupayakan, namun faktor-faktor seperti kemiskinan, tingkat pendidikan, literasi, kecakapan teknologi, pandemi, anggaran dan kebijakan pemerintah tetap menjadi kendala yang terus dihadapi oleh pengelola Geopark Ciletuh dalam usaha pemberdayaan masyarakat. Dibutuhkan pendekatan komunikatif dan waktu yang panjang agar kemudian pemberdayaan masyarakat ini dapat tercapai seutuhnya.
Kontestasi Pemaknaan Ruwatan sebagai Alternatif Akikah (Studi Kasus di Desa Patrang Tengah Kabupaten Jember)
Authors: Yusnita Titis Rizka
Published: December 2024

Siasat lokal yang mencampuradukkan ruwatan sebagai alternatif akikah menimbulkan kontestasi pemaknaan bagi masyarakat dan tokoh keagamaan setempat. Penelitian ini bertujuan mengidentifikasi latar belakang pelaksanaan ruwatan sebagai alternatif akikah dan bentuk tradisi ruwatan berdasarkan studi kasus yang terjadi di Desa Patrang Tengah, Kabupaten Jember.Data dalam penelitian ini berwujud hasil wawancara langsung terhadap dua tokoh agama (Islam) setempat. Data dianalisis berdasarkan teori budaya hibrid dan mimikri yang dikemukakan oleh Homi Bhabha. Tahap analisis data juga ditunjang dengan studi pustaka yang mengkaji hakikat ruwatan dan akikah dalamkelompok masyarakat tertentu. Tahap penyajian hasil analisis data menggunakan metode informal agar kontestasi pemaknaan ruwatan sebagai alternatif akikah yang terjadi di Desa Patrang Tengah dapat dijabarkan secara deskriptif dan mendalam. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa ruwatan sebagai budaya lokal yang dijalankan oleh kalangan masyarakat tertentu mengalami kontestasi pemaknaan yang cukup kompleks. Hal ini tidak terlepas dari dinamika pemahaman masyarakat, masalah ekonomi, dan waktu yang terus berjalan. Tradisi ruwatan sebagai produk kebudayaan dipengaruhi oleh persepsi masyarakat dalam memilah sudut pandang dan menyikapi tradisi yang berjalan. Budaya yang hidup berdampingan dengan konteks keagamaan berpotensi mengalami pergesekan jika tidak disikapi dengan tepat. Oleh sebab itu, konsep hibridisasi budaya ruwatan dengan akikah dihadirkan sebagai upaya masyarakat untuk menyelaraskan kondisi sosial dan ekonomi yang terjadi di kalangan tersebut.
Optimalisasi Higiene dan Sanitasi Operasional untuk Peningkatan Mutu Produksi di Dapur Utama
Authors: Firmansyah Aulia
Published: December 2024

Hygiene dan sanitasi merupakan hal penting yang diterapkanm oleh setiap hotel khususnya hotel berbintang empat dan berbintang lima. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah mengetahui tingkat pemahaman dan pelaksanaan standar oeprasional prosedur (SOP) higiene dan sanitasi oleh staf main kitchen atau petugas pengolah makanan untuk meningkatkan kualitas makanan tempat penelitian merupakan hotel berbintang empat di pusat kota Surakarta, berusaha melakukan peningkatan terhadap hygiene dan sanitasi. Dari sini penulis melakukan penelitian, apakah hygiene dan sanitasi yang ada di tempat penulis melakukan penelitian telah meningkatkan kualitas makanan secara maksimal dengan cara melakukan pengamatan dan penyebaran quesioner terhadap petugas pengolah makanan mengenai higienen dan sanitasi yang berada di area kerja, peralatan yang digunakan untuk mengolah makanan dan perseorangan. Dari hasil pengamatan dan penyebaran questioner, didapatkan bahwa higigene dan sanitasi di tempat penulis melakukan penelitian, secara umum sudah dalam keadaan maksimal, seperti dilihat dari hasil quesioner 51.05% responden menjawab selalu, 30,69% responden menjawab sering, 11,79% menjawab kadang, 4,69% responden menjawab jarang dan 1,26% responden menjawab tidak pernah. Dapat disimpulkan dari jawaban quesioner yang masuk bahwa staf pengolahan makanan telah menjalankan standar operasional prosedur (SOP) higiene dan sanitasi akan tetapi ada 2 hal dari hygiene dan sanitasi yang belum dijalankan dengan maksimal dan perlu mendapatkan perhatian untuk lebih di tingkatkan, yaitu tidak mengunyah permen karet saat bekerja danb tidak duduk diatas working table.
Peran Pemandu Wisata Dalam Pengembangan Keberlanjutan Pariwisata Pasar Seni Ubud, Bali
Authors: Sitohang Lidya Lestari , Oktaviona Eka Rahma , Fa’addihillah Clarista Wahyu , Alfi Wawan , Yuviansyah Firdaus Adam , Hanifah Devi Fitriyah
Published: December 2024

Kepuasan wisatawan dalam perjalanan wisata salah satunya dihasilkan oleh kualitas pelayanan melalui keterampilan pemandu wisata. Bali memiliki objek wisata menarik seperti Pasar Seni Ubud.Peran pemandu wisata atau tour guide dalam pengembangan objek wisatawan di Bali sangat penting. Studi ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui secara empiris bagaimana peran pemandu wisata dalam pengembangan objek pariwisata di Pasar Seni Ubud, Bali. Metode penelitian dalam penelitian ini adalah metode kualitatif.Teknik pengumpulan data berupa teknik triangulasi meliputi wawancara, observasi, catatan lapangan, dan studi kepustakaan. Teknik pemilhan nara sumber berdasarkan accidental sampling.  Analisis dilakukan dengan menggunakan analisis tema. Hasil penelitian menujukkan bahwa peran pemandu wisata dalam pengembangan pariwisata di Bali terlihat dari kualitas karakter dan keterampilan berbahasa asing pemandu wisata. Peran pemandu wisata secara umum adalah penghubung antara destinasi wisata dan wisatawan. Peran pemandu wisata dalam pengembangan keberlanjutan pasar seni Ubud, Bali adalalah sebagai komunikator, pihak/agen yang menampung aspirasi, dan jembatan antara pemerintah dan wisatawan Kata Kunci :  Pemandu Wisata, Peran Pemandu Wisata, Pengembangan Berkelanjutan Wisata