bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis adapted from text mining quantitively reveals abrupt and gradual plant-community transitions after fire in sagebrush steppe
Authors: Applestein Cara , Anthony Christopher , Germino Matthew J
Published: March 2024

Context

Plant communities vary both abruptly and gradually over time but differentiating between types of change can be difficult with existing classification and ordination methods. Structural topic modeling (STRUTMO), a text mining analysis, offers a flexible methodology for analyzing both types of temporal trends.

Objectives

Our objectives were to (1) identify post-fire dominant sagebrush steppe plant association types and ask how they vary with time at a landscape (multi-fire) scale and (2) ask how often major association changes are apparent at the plot-level scale.

Methods

We used STRUTMO and plant species cover collected between 2002–2022 across six large burn areas (1941 plots) in the Great Basin, USA to characterize landscape change in dominant plant association up to 14 years post-fire. In a case study, we assessed frequency of large annual changes (≥ 10% increase in one association and decrease in another) between associations at the plot-level scale.

Results

STRUTMO revealed 10 association types dominated by either perennial bunchgrasses, mixed perennial or annual grasses and forbs, or exotic annual grasses. Across all study fires, associations dominated by large-statured perennial bunchgrasses increased then stabilized, replacing the Sandberg bluegrass (Poa secunda)-dominated association. The cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum)-dominant association decreased and then increased. At the plot-level, bidirectional changes among associations occurred in ~ 75% of observations, and transitions from annual invaded to perennial associations were more common than the reverse.

Conclusions

The analysis revealed that associations dominated by some species (i.e. crested wheatgrass, Agropyron cristatum, Siberian wheatgrass, Agropyron fridgida, or medusahead, Taeniatherum caput-medusae) were more stable than associations dominated by others (i.e. Sandberg bluegrass or cheatgrass). Strong threshold-like transitions were not observed at the multi-fire scale, despite frequent ephemeral plot-level changes.
The role of serum-glucocorticoid regulated kinase 1 in reproductive viability: implications from prenatal programming and senescence
Authors: Zhang Qiying , Tian Ye , Fu Zhujing , Wu Shuangyu , Lan Huizhen , Zhou Xuanle , Shen Wendi , Lou Yiyun
Published: March 2024

Objective

Organisms and cellular viability are of paramount importance to living creatures. Disruption of the balance between cell survival and apoptosis results in compromised viability and even carcinogenesis. One molecule involved in keeping this homeostasis is serum-glucocorticoid regulated kinase (SGK) 1. Emerging evidence points to a significant role of SGK1 in cell growth and survival, cell metabolism, reproduction, and life span, particularly in prenatal programming and reproductive senescence by the same token. Whether the hormone inducible SGK1 kinase is a major driver in the pathophysiological processes of prenatal programming and reproductive senescence?

Method

The PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, Embase/Ovid, and Elsevier Science Direct literature databases were searched for articles in English focusing on SGK1 published up to July 2023

Result

Emerging evidence is accumulating pointing to a pathophysiological role of the ubiquitously expressed SGK1 in the cellular and organismal viability. Under the regulation of specific hormones, extracellular stimuli, and various signals, SGK1 is involved in several biological processes relevant to viability, including cell proliferation and survival, cell migration and differentiation. In line, SGK1 contributes to the development of germ cells, embryos, and fetuses, whereas SGK1 inhibition leads to abnormal gametogenesis, embryo loss, and truncated reproductive lifespan.

Conclution

SGK1 integrates a broad spectrum of effects to maintain the homeostasis of cell survival and apoptosis, conferring viability to multiple cell types as well as both simple and complex organisms, and thus ensuring appropriate prenatal development and reproductive lifespan.
The generalized Kelvin chain-based model for an orthotropic viscoelastic material
Authors: Trcala M. , Suchomelová P. , Bošanský M. , Hokeš F. , Němec I.
Published: March 2024

We propose a constitutive material model to describe the rheological (viscoelastic) mechanical response of timber. The viscoelastic model is based on the generalized Kelvin chain applied to the orthotropic material and is compared to the simple approach given by standards. The contribution of this study consists of the algorithmization of the viscoelastic material model of the material applied to the orthotropic constitutive law and implementation into the FEM solver. In the next step, the fitting of the input parameters of the Kelvin chain is described, and at least a material model benchmark and comparison to the approach given by standards were done. The standardized approach is based on the reduction of the material rigidity at the end of the loading period using a creep coefficient, whereas the loading history state variables are not considered when establishing the result for a specific time step. The paper presents the benefits of the rheological model. It also demonstrates the fitting algorithm based on particle swarm optimization and the least squares method, which are essential for the use of the generalized Kelvin chain model. The material model based on the orthotropic generalized Kelvin chain was implemented into the FEM solver for the shell elements. This material model was validated on the presented benchmark tasks, and the influence of the time step size on the accuracy of model results was analyzed.
Comprehensive review of the skin use of bakuchiol: physicochemical properties, sources, bioactivities, nanotechnology delivery systems, regulatory and toxicological concerns
Authors: Mascarenhas-Melo Filipa , Ribeiro Mariana Marques , Kahkesh Kaveh Hatami , Parida Sagarika , Pawar Kiran D. , Velsankar K. , Jha Niraj Kumar , Damiri Fouad , Costa Gustavo , Veiga Francisco , Paiva-Santos Ana Cláudia
Published: March 2024

Bakuchiol is a meroterpene that has recently aroused great interest in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. Its main source is the seeds of Psoralea corylifolia, a medicinal plant native to Asia, despite having a wide geographical distribution. However, this medicinal herb faces endangerment due to low seed germination rates and high seedling mortality. In this context, this review article highlights studies that have focused on describing plant regeneration from root fragments. Subsequently, given its morphological similarity to other species, a technique that can be used to verify the authenticity of the plant and prevent counterfeiting is also mentioned and explored. Additionally, a “green” extraction method for obtaining bakuchiol is presented, and the possibility of obtaining bakuchiol through chemical synthesis routes is also explored. Furthermore, we provide an exhaustive description of bakuchiol's wide range of biological activities, with particular relevance to the skin. The main skin bioactivities of bakuchiol include antifungal, antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiaging, depigmenting, and anticancer. However, the particular physicochemical properties of bakuchiol require and benefit from the development of innovative skin delivery systems that allow its encapsulation. These include micro- and nano-sized systems for therapeutic and cosmetic applications, which are also carefully described in this review article. Finally, regulatory issues, metabolic considerations, and toxicological concerns related to the use of bakuchiol in cosmetic and dermopharmaceutical formulations will be addressed, relating not only to the user but also to the environment.

Graphical abstract
Under pressure: elucidating soil compaction and its effect on soil functions
Authors: Frene Juan P. , Pandey Bipin K. , Castrillo Gabriel
Published: March 2024

Background

Modern agricultural practices have exacerbated soil compaction, largely due to the intensification of operations involving heavier machinery and tillage practices. Soil compaction increases soil bulk density and reduces porosity, limiting water and nutrient diffusion within the soil matrix. Soil compaction also alters bacterial and fungal communities in agroecosystems by favouring, for example, anaerobic prokaryotes and saprotrophic fungi. Under these conditions crop yields are reduced, affecting food security.

Scope

We review recent advances in understanding the impact of compaction on soil physical and chemical characteristics and plant physiological response to this stress, with special emphasis on the effect of soil compaction on bacterial and fungal communities and their interaction with the plant. Additionally, we discuss recent findings on plant responses to compacted soils that affect the recruitment of root microbiota and how the microbiota could help the plant cope with this stress. We also discuss possible strategies to mitigate the consequences of soil compaction in agricultural settings.

Conclusions

Research in soil compaction is far from conclusive about the mechanisms that plants use to respond to compaction. It is also not well understood how the microbiota inhabiting the roots participate in the plant response mechanisms to this stress. A better understanding of the mechanisms that drive the selection and establishment of the plant microbial community at the root-soil interface in compacted soils could help find new strategies that, together with existing ones, could improve crop production in compacted soils.
Too Young to Run? Voter Evaluations of the Age of Candidates
Authors: McClean Charles T. , Ono Yoshikuni
Published: March 2024

Why do elected officials tend to be much older than most of their constituents? To understand the mechanisms behind the underrepresentation of young people in public office, we conducted two novel survey experiments in Japan. We asked voters in these experiments to evaluate the photos of hypothetical candidates while altering candidates’ faces using age regression and progression software. Contrary to the observed age demographics of politicians, the voters in our experiments strongly disliked older candidates but viewed younger and middle-aged candidates as equally favorable. Voters saw young candidates as less experienced but also more likely to focus on many policy issues over a longer period, including education, childcare, climate change, anti-corruption measures, and multiculturalism. Young voters especially liked young candidates, suggesting that greater youth turnout could increase youth representation. Conversely, elderly candidates were universally panned, seen as the least competent, least likely to focus on most policy issues, and least electable. Voter biases thus do not seem to be a driving factor behind the shortage of young politicians. To the contrary, voters appear perfectly willing to cast their ballots for young candidates.
Are physicians rational under ambiguity?
Authors: Gao Yu , Huang Zhenxing , Liu Ning , Yang Jia
Published: March 2024

Do physicians behave rationally when facing a new disease? This study assesses physicians’ ambiguity attitudes towards the future severity of the COVID-19 pandemic in its early stages and the financial market in the US using an incentive-compatible online experiment. Our findings indicate that physicians demonstrate significant deviations from expected utility, characterized by a modest degree of ambiguity aversion and pronounced levels of likelihood insensitivity. While physicians generally show less insensitivity to uncertainty compared to the general public, both groups exhibited similar levels of irrationality when dealing with the ambiguity surrounding the COVID-19 severity. These results underscore the necessity for debiasing strategies among medical professionals, especially in managing real-world uncertainties, with a specific focus on mitigating likelihood insensitivity.
The impact of funding on the 5G innovation ecosystem
Authors: van der Pol Johannes
Published: March 2024

This paper aims to extend the literature on the impact of research funding. Using 5G as a case study, this paper analyses how funding impacts the 5G innovation ecosystem. Using the functions of innovation systems as a framework, we analyse how several of these functions are influenced by research funding. The results a portion of the ecosystem only participates with funding. In addition the structure of the ecosystem is significantly altered. Research topics are also influenced by funding: some being mostly treated through funding. Funding has little to no impact on the publications that lead to patents.
Twistronics and moiré excitonic physics in van der Waals heterostructures
Authors: Li Siwei , Wei Ke , Liu Qirui , Tang Yuxiang , Jiang Tian
Published: March 2024

Heterostructures composed of two-dimensional van der Waals (vdW) materials allow highly controllable stacking, where interlayer twist angles introduce a continuous degree of freedom to alter the electronic band structures and excitonic physics. Motivated by the discovery of Mott insulating states and superconductivity in magic-angle bilayer graphene, the emerging research fields of “twistronics” and moiré physics have aroused great academic interests in the engineering of optoelectronic properties and the exploration of new quantum phenomena, in which moiré superlattice provides a pathway for the realization of artificial excitonic crystals. Here we systematically summarize the current achievements in twistronics and moiré excitonic physics, with emphasis on the roles of lattice rotational mismatches and atomic registries. Firstly, we review the effects of the interlayer twist on electronic and photonic physics, particularly on exciton properties such as dipole moment and spin-valley polarization, through interlayer interactions and electronic band structures. We also discuss the exciton dynamics in vdW heterostructures with different twist angles, like formation, transport and relaxation processes, whose mechanisms are complicated and still need further investigations. Subsequently, we review the theoretical analysis and experimental observations of moiré superlattice and moiré modulated excitons. Various exotic moiré effects are also shown, including periodic potential, moiré miniband, and varying wave function symmetry, which result in exciton localization, emergent exciton peaks and spatially alternating optical selection rule. We further introduce the expanded properties of moiré systems with external modulation factors such as electric field, doping and strain, showing that moiré lattice is a promising platform with high tunability for optoelectronic applications and in-depth study on frontier physics. Lastly, we focus on the rapidly developing field of correlated electron physics based on the moiré system, which is potentially related to the emerging quantum phenomena.
Temporal variability of physical quality of a sandy loam soil amended with compost
Authors: Bondì Cristina , Castellini Mirko , Iovino Massimo
Published: March 2024

Compost can enhance the soil's ability to retain water, resulting in an overall improvement of soil physical quality (SPQ). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the temporal variability of physical and hydraulic properties of a sandy loam soil amended with a compost obtained from orange juice processing wastes and garden cleaning. The soil water retention curve of repacked soil samples at varying compost to soil ratios, r, was determined at the time of compost embedding (M0) and after six months (M6), and twelve months (M12). Indicators of SPQ linked to soil water retention curve such as air capacity (AC), macroporosity (Pmac), plant available water capacity (PAWC), relative field capacity (RFC) and Dexter S-index (S), were estimated. The effect of compost addiction of the pore volume distribution function was also evaluated.

The elapsed time from compost application influenced all SPQ indicators but the maximum beneficial effects of compost amendment were achieved within approximately the first six months. Indicators linked the macro- and mesoporosity (Pmac and AC) decreased with r whereas indicators linked to plant water availability (PAWC and RFC) increased with r. The combined effect of time and rate was statistically observed only for Pmac, PAWC and S.

Compost addiction reduced the soil compaction and modified the pore system, as the fraction of structural porosity (i.e., macropores) decreased and the fraction of textural porosity (i.e., micropores) increased. It was concluded that even a single application of compost could have a significant impact on soil water retention and microstructure with positive implications for soil health, precision agriculture and crop productivity.
An Investigation of Energy Dissipation in Beta III Titanium Alloy
Authors: Romanò Jacopo , Di Giuseppe Simone , Lazzari Fabio , Garavaglia Lorenzo , Volonte’ Francesco , Pittaccio Simone
Published: March 2024

This work investigates the effects of a supertransus annealing treatment, followed by plastic deformation, on the damping properties of a Ti-11.5Mo-6Zr-4.5Sn alloy. In our study, no evidence of α″-phase was found. A heat treatment at 800°C for 180 min, followed by 16% tensile plastic deformation, successfully increased the energy dissipation of the alloy, with an increase up to 76% in quasi-static hysteresis, and up to 200% in dynamic damping factor. The results of metallographic analysis, mechanical tests, and X-ray powder diffraction suggest that this increase in damping capacity may be caused by reversible twinning, and not necessarily by stress-induced α'' martensite.
Noninvasive Intracranial Pressure Monitoring: Are We There Yet?
Authors: Rajajee Venkatakrishna
Published: March 2024

There is an urgent unmet need for a reliable noninvasive tool to detect elevations in intracranial pressure (ICP) above guideline-recommended thresholds for treatment. Gold standard invasive ICP monitoring is unavailable in many settings, including resource-limited environments, and in situations such as liver failure in which coagulopathy increases the risk of invasive monitoring. Although a large number of noninvasive techniques have been evaluated, this article reviews the potential clinical role, if any, of the techniques that have undergone the most extensive evaluation and are already in clinical use. Elevations in ICP transmitted through the subarachnoid space result in distension of the optic nerve sheath. The optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD) can be measured with ultrasound, and an ONSD threshold can be used to detect elevated ICP. Although many studies suggest this technique accurately detects elevated ICP, there is concern for risk of bias and variations in ONSD thresholds across studies that preclude routine use of this technique in clinical practice. Multiple transcranial Doppler techniques have been used to assess ICP, but the best studied are the pulsatility index and the Czosnyka method to estimate cerebral perfusion pressure and ICP. Although there is inconsistency in the literature, recent prospective studies, including an international multicenter study, suggest the estimated ICP technique has a high negative predictive value (> 95%) but a poor positive predictive value (≤ 30%). Quantitative pupillometry is a sensitive and objective method to assess pupillary size and reactivity. Proprietary indices have been developed to quantify the pupillary light response. Limited data suggest these quantitative measurements may be useful for the early detection of ICP elevation. No current noninvasive technology can replace invasive ICP monitoring. Where ICP monitoring is unavailable, multimodal noninvasive assessment may be useful. Further innovation and research are required to develop a reliable, continuous technique of noninvasive ICP assessment.
Integrated Continuous Process Design for Crystallisation, Spherical Agglomeration, and Filtration of Lovastatin
Authors: Brown Cameron J. , McGinty John , Islam Muhammad T. , Rajoub Nazer , Arjmandi-Tash Omid , Ottoboni Sara , Shahid Muhid , Urwin Stephanie J. , Lee Ye Seol , Chong Magdalene W. S. , Papathanasiou Foteini , Prakash Aruna S. , Prasad Elke , Spence Bronwyn , Sefcik Jan , Robertson John , Smith Rachel , Litster James D. , Price Chris J. , Nordon Alison , Adjiman Claire S. , Florence Alastair J.
Published: March 2024

Purpose

This work seeks to improve the particle processability of needle-like lovastatin crystals and develop a small-footprint continuous MicroFactory for its production.

Methods

General conditions for optimal spherical agglomeration of lovastatin crystals and subsequent product isolation are developed, first as batch processes, and then transferred to continuous MicroFactory operation.

Results

Methyl isobutyl ketone is a suitable bridging liquid for the spherical agglomeration of lovastatin. Practical challenges including coupling unit operations and solvent systems; mismatched flow rates and inconsistent suspension solid loading were resolved. The successful continuous production of lovastatin spherical agglomerates (D50 = 336 µm) was achieved. Spherical agglomeration increased the density of the bulk lovastatin powder and improved product flowability from poor to good, whilst maintaining lovastatin tablet performance.

Conclusion

A continuous, integrated MicroFactory for the crystallisation, spherical agglomeration, and filtration of lovastatin is presented with improved product particle processability. Up to 16,800 doses of lovastatin (60 mg) can be produced per day using a footprint of 23 m2.
Hilbert Number for a Family of Piecewise Nonautonomous Equations
Authors: Bravo J. L. , Fernández M. , Ojeda I.
Published: March 2024

For family $$x'=(a_0+a_1\cos t+a_2 \sin t)|x|+b_0+b_1 \cos t+b_2 \sin t$$

x
′

=

(

a
0

+

a
1

cos
t
+

a
2

sin
t
)

|
x
|

+

b
0

+

b
1

cos
t
+

b
2

sin
t

, we solve three basic problems related with its dynamics. First, we characterize when it has a center (Poincaré center focus problem). Second, we show that each equation has a finite number of limit cycles (finiteness problem), and finally we give a uniform upper bound for the number of limit cycles (Hilbert problem 16).
Social robot accessories for tailoring and appropriation of social robots
Authors: Joshi Swapna , Kamino Waki , Šabanović Selma
Published: March 2024

The design of robots for everyday use should take into account the specific nature of the individual end-user and the possibility of interactions with multiple users in diverse scenarios, promoting versatility and increasing the chances of their successful adoption in everyday environments. Most robots are designed, however, to perform tasks and interact in typical social scenarios with an abstract human user. We observed a recent surge in the use of accessories with social robots, which aligns with a broader trend of consumers’ preference for personalizing the technologies they interact with. Drawing from the concepts of adaptability and customizability in collaborative systems, we explore the potential use of accessory-like items for social robots to enable low-tech customization and user appropriation, thus enhancing their value and suitability in various social situations. We draw from Human-Computer Interaction and Computer-Supported Co-operative Work literature to show how end-user customizability and appropriation are essential, but less frequently considered, in the study and design of social robots. We conceptualize Social Robot Accessories (SRAs) as a way for end-users to customize robots, and present three studies - (1) a literature survey on accessory-like item use with social robots, (2) a survey of commercially available robot accessories, and (3) a Twitter-based analysis of accessory use for AIBO and LOVOT robots by their users. We use findings from these studies to envision a design space of SRAs for use by Human-Robot Interaction (HRI) researchers.
Antecedent Ideological Profiles and Negative Socio-political Outcomes of LGBTQ+ Conspiracy Beliefs
Authors: Salvati Marco , Pellegrini Valerio , De Cristofaro Valeria , Costacurta Mirco , Giacomantonio Mauro
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Conspiracy theories and beliefs (CTBs) about LGBTQ+ people are often used as arguments in political debate in Italy and across Europe to hinder the passing of protective laws and negatively affect popular consensus regarding the promotion of anti-discrimination policies and the advancement of civil rights.

Method

We conducted two correlational studies in Italy starting the data collection at the end of 2022. In Study 1 (N = 589), we investigated which ideological profile was more associated with LGBTQ+ CTBs, between the two profiles identified by Duckitt et al.’s model (Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 83(1), 75–93, 2002): path A) high vision of the world as a competitive jungle and consequent high social dominance orientation; path B) high vision of the world as dangerous and consequent high right-wing authoritarianism. In Study 2 (N = 1581), we have also included three potential outcomes associated with LGBTQ+ CTBs in the model.

Results

Through a mediational path model, we found that path B was the strongest associated with LGBTQ+ CTBs. We found that LGBTQ+ CTBs mediated the relationships between the two ideological dispositions and (a) lower support to LGBTQ+ civil rights; (b) lower LGBTQ+ collective action intentions; and (c) higher adherence to economic myths about LGBTQ+ people.

Conclusions

Socio-psychological research on LGBTQ+ CTBs may inform social policies that work to lessen the harm these beliefs do and advance a more welcoming and inclusive society.

Policy Implications

Such results offer several insights to change and improve the actual debate in political, scientific, and cultural domains, contributing to producing new policies which might increase the self-determination of all LGBTQ+ people.
Effect of phosphorus deficiency on the expression and protein localization of ENHANCER OF TRY AND CPC3 gene in Arabidopsis roots
Authors: Wakamatsu Juri , Hosokawa Jun , Tominaga Rumi
Published: March 2024

Increased hair in Arabidopsis roots during phosphorus deficiency is an important adaptation mechanism. The CAPRICE (CPC) gene, along with its six homologs, plays a pivotal role in root hair formation. Our previous study indicated upregulated expression of ENHANCER OF TRY AND CPC1 (ETC1) and ENHANCER OF TRY AND CPC3 (ETC3) homologous genes in response to phosphorus deficiency. ETC1 translocates from the root sub-epidermis to epidermal cells, thereby increasing the number of root hairs. In this study, we specifically focused on ETC3 to explore its function in this process. Our results showed that etc1, etc3, and etc1 etc3 mutants did not induce as much root hairs in response to phosphorus deficiency as the wild type. The upregulation of ETC1 and ETC3 in response to phosphorus deficiency was restricted to the roots, with no such response observed in leaves. Furthermore, examination of ETC3:GFP protein localization revealed that ETC3 expression was induced in the internal root tissues under phosphorus deficiency, without migrating to epidermal cells as observed for ETC1. This finding suggests that ETC3 may indirectly contribute to root hair formation through a different mechanism. Therefore, elucidating the complex process that governs root hair increase in phosphorus-deficient plants can lead to future advances in plant breeding and nutrient stress adaptation.
CO2 photocatalytic reduction with robust and stable metal–organic framework: a review
Authors: Mori Ryohei
Published: March 2024

Climate change and global warming problem are becoming the serious issue and some action is necessary in order to mitigate the rising temperature. CO2 increase is one of the reason for temperature rise, and the technology to convert CO2 to beneficial energy or chemical substance could be one of the key solution (CO2 photocatalytic reduction). Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have gained much attention owing to their extremely large surface areas, tunable fine structures, and potential applications in many areas. Recently, MOFs have been demonstrated to be promising materials for CO2 photocatalytic reduction. This review summarized recent research progresses in photocatalytic reduction using MOFs. MOFs were classified mainly by the type of metal center, and the feature and tendency against their functions towards CO2 photocatalytic activity will be explained.
Asian American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander Substance Use and Disparities: Review of Current Evidence and Recommendations for the Field
Authors: Subica Andrew M. , An Katlyn , Okamoto Scott K.
Published: March 2024

Purpose of Review

This study aimed to describe the current state of the science on Asian American (AA) and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander (NH/PI) substance use, covering extant research and treatment knowledge and gaps.

Recent Findings

Despite literature gaps, epidemiological studies revealed sizable population-level differences between AAs, who have among the lowest rates of US substance use, and NH/PIs, who have among the highest. Targeted studies identified key challenges affecting NH/PI communities and some AA subgroups, particularly for alcohol, cigarette, and e-cigarette use. Of major concern, both AAs and NH/PIs demonstrate significant treatment disparities.

There is a scarcity of substance use research and interventions specifically targeted for AAs and NH/PIs. Promisingly, a growing body of research is focused on developing/testing culturally targeted interventions for these populations, but more is needed. Recommendations for improving substance use data and intervention research with AAs and NH/PIs—including disaggregating both racial groups and their subgroups—are discussed.
Videoberatungen im Beratungsangebot der Bundesagentur für Arbeit – Ergebnisse einer Mixed-Method-Studie
Authors: Stanik Tim , Rott Karin Julia
Published: March 2024

Die Bundesagentur für Arbeit (BA) ist einer der größten Anbieter von Beratungen in Bildung, Beruf und Beschäftigung. Neben der Beratung von arbeitslosen Personen adressiert das Beratungsangebot auch Personen, die sich beruflich orientieren oder (weiter-)entwickeln wollen. Seit der Corona-Pandemie kann das Beratungsangebot der BA auch im Format der Videoberatung in Anspruch genommen werden. Auch wenn diese Beratungen eine große Nähe zu Face-to-Face-Beratungen aufweisen, sind sie digital vermittelt. Der Beitrag untersucht mit Hilfe von quantitativen und qualitativen Befragungen von Beratungsfachkräften der BA, welche Erfahrungen mit Videoberatung gemacht wurden, welche professionelle Anforderungen und Herausforderungen die Beratenden dabei wahrnehmen und wie sie hierfür ihre Kompetenzen einschätzen. Die Ergebnisse zeigen ein relativ hohes Kompetenzempfinden, und es konnte einer Typologie von Videoberatenden der BA exploriert werden.
Effect of Shrinkage Versus Hydrogen Pores on Fatigue Life of Cast AlSi11Mg Alloy
Authors: Kreins Marion , Hippe Marco , Funken Florian , Phyu May Pwint , Bührig-Polaczek Andreas , Krupp Ulrich
Published: March 2024

Shrinkage pores in cast aluminum components are often the reason for premature failure during cyclic loading due to their large size and fissured morphology. Complete avoidance is technically not possible due to processing constraints, but shrinkage pores can be substituted by significantly smaller and spherical gas pores by means of controlled hydrogen upgassing. The newly developed and simulation-optimized casting system enables precise and reproducible casting of various pore distributions, which have been extensively characterized. Correlations between shrinkage vs. hydrogen pores and fatigue behavior were quantified concerning very high cycle fatigue and crack propagation behavior as well as analyzed by 3D µ-CT to identify the failure mechanisms. In the as-cast condition, fissured shrinkage pores, especially near the surface, lead to crack initiation and premature fatigue failure. The strong scattering of fatigue life can be significantly reduced by the controlled insertion of hydrogen pores. Furthermore, the experimental studies indicate that hydrogen pores increase the critical crack growth threshold and reduce the crack propagation rate by crack deflection, crack splitting and crack tip blunting.
Die Besteuerung gesundheitsschädlicher Produkte
Authors: Barbaro Salvatore
Published: March 2024

Neben der Umsatzsteuer unterliegt eine Reihe gesundheitsschädlicher Produkte einer spezifischen Verbrauchssteuer wie der Bier‑, Alkohol- und Tabaksteuer. In einer Gesamtschau dieser sin taxes offenbart sich ein Steuersystem voller Inkonsistenzen. Zum Beispiel unterliegt Bier einer speziellen Verbrauchssteuer, während der ebenfalls wegen seines Alkoholgehaltes gesundheitsschädliche Wein nicht spezifisch besteuert wird. Dieser Beitrag problematisiert die fehlende Systematik in der Besteuerung gesundheitsschädlicher Produkte. Diese Inkonsistenz rückt vor dem Hintergrund der aktuellen Diskussion um die Legalisierung von Cannabis besonders in den Fokus. Nach einer Bestandsaufnahme skizziert dieser Beitrag einen rationalen Besteuerungsansatz, der sich an den gesundheitlichen Risiken der Produkte orientiert. Dieser Ansatz identifiziert zwei mögliche Leitlinien der Besteuerung gesundheitsschädlicher Produkte: das jeweilige harm level des Produktes und die Preiselastizitäten.
Highly-efficient sustainable ionic thermoelectric materials using lignin-derived hydrogels
Authors: Muddasar Muhammad , Menéndez Nicolás , Quero Ángela , Nasiri Mohammad A. , Cantarero Andrés , García-Cañadas Jorge , Gómez Clara M. , Collins Maurice N. , Culebras Mario
Published: March 2024

The efficient and economical conversion of low-grade waste heat into electricity has promising potential to combat the greenhouse effect and expedite the shift towards sustainable development. This study presents an innovative and appealing approach through the utilization of lignin, an abundant waste product derived from the paper and pulp industry, to develop hydrogels as compelling and sustainable materials for application in ionic thermoelectricity. Various compositions were evaluated to examine the impacts of varying lignin concentrations, types of electrolytes, concentrations of crosslinkers, and electrolyte concentrations on the ionic thermoelectric performance of the hydrogels. The optimized lignin-derived hydrogel, infiltrated with a 6 M KOH electrolyte, demonstrates high ionic conductivity (226.5 mS/cm) and a superior Seebeck coefficient of 13 mV/K. This results in a remarkable power factor (3831 µW/m·K2) that leads to an impressive Figure of merit (ZTi) (3.75), surpassing most of the existing state-of-the-art materials and making it the most efficient sustainable ionic thermoelectric material reported until now. These findings underscore the exceptional performance of lignin-based hydrogels in the realm of low-grade waste energy harvesting applications. The present study contributes to address the challenges posed by waste heat through effectively harnessing low-grade waste heat through the utilization of sustainable lignin-based hydrogels while reducing the reliance on fossil fuels and minimizing greenhouse gas emissions.

Graphical Abstract
Fostering potential entrepreneurs: an empirical study of the drivers of green self-efficacy in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alshebami Ali Saleh , Fazal Syed Ali , Seraj Abdullah Hamoud Ali , Al Marri Salem Handhal , Alsultan Wala Sultan
Published: March 2024

The positive role of entrepreneurship and micro and small enterprises in providing job opportunities necessitated a further investigation into the critical individual factors motivating individuals and potential entrepreneurs (students) to develop their entrepreneurial intentions and act green. Accordingly, we aimed to examine the effects of crucial factors—environmental self-identity (ESI) and green mindfulness (GM)—on students’ (potential entrepreneurs’) development of green self-efficacy (GSE) and to examine the influence of GSE on their green entrepreneurial intentions (GEIs). The study sample of 202 potential entrepreneurs was drawn from two Applied and Business Administration Colleges at King Faisal University. The collected data were analysed and interpreted using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM). The research produced exciting results showing that ESI and GM positively influenced GSE and that GSE positively affected GEI. The results also revealed GSE’s capability to mediate the connection between GM, ESI, and GEI. This paper concludes by providing several suggestions for decision-makers in the study context.
Geographical and temporal weighted regression: examining spatial variations of COVID-19 mortality pattern using mobility and multi-source data
Authors: Hu Nanzhou , Zhang Ziyi , Duffield Nicholas , Li Xiao , Dadashova Bahar , Wu Dayong , Yu Siyu , Ye Xinyue , Han Daikwon , Zhang Zhe
Published: March 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has had profound adverse effects on public health and society, with increased mobility contributing to the spread of the virus and vulnerable populations, such as those with pre-existing health conditions, at a higher risk of COVID-19 mortality. However, the specific spatial and temporal impacts of health conditions and mobility on COVID-19 mortality have yet to be fully understood. In this study, we utilized the Geographical and Temporal Weighted Regression (GTWR) model to assess the influence of mobility and health-related factors on COVID-19 mortality in the United States. The model examined several significant factors, including demographic and health-related factors, and was compared with the Multiscale Geographically Weighted Regression (MGWR) model to evaluate its performance. Our findings from the GTWR model reveal that human mobility and health conditions have a significant spatial impact on COVID-19 mortality. Additionally, our study identified different patterns in the association between COVID-19 and the explanatory variables, providing insights to policymakers for effective decision-making.
A range of replies
Authors: Whiting Daniel
Published: March 2024

This is a reply by the author to the contributors to a symposium on the book, The Range of Reasons (Oxford University Press, 2021).
Electromechanical ice protection system: de-icing capability prediction considering impedance matching effect
Authors: Miao B. , Yuan L. , Zhu C.L.
Published: March 2024

Due to the safety threats caused by icing, the de-icing system is essential in the aviation industry. As an effective method, the electromechanical de-icing system (EDS) is a new ice-protection system based on mechanical vibration principles. For the majority of the current research on system de-icing capability estimation, the effect of impedance-matching is not considered. Impedance matching plays a very important role in improving the performance of the electromechanical system, so we must also consider the impact of impedance matching when designing the EDS. In the present study, a de-icing capability prediction method considering the impact of an impedance-matching device is established based on experimental and numerical methods. The results indicate that the impedance-matching effect has no impact on the mechanical vibration of the structure for the same load power. Meanwhile, impedance-matching devices can significantly improve the power factor and increase the interface shear stress/strain for de-icing. Eight different vibrational modes were tested, and the experimental results showed that the actual interface shear strain after impedance matching is inversely proportional to the de-icing time. The verification experiments were conducted and the accuracy of the proposed prediction method was verified.
Evaluating the Current State of Epilepsy Care in the Province of Ontario
Authors: Van Winssen Christine , Andrade Andrea V. , Andrade Danielle M. , Burneo Jorge G. , de Ribaupierre Sandrine , Donner Elizabeth , Hassan Ayman , Ibrahim George , Jones Kevin C. , Lomax Lysa Boissé , Muir Katherine , Nouri Maryam N. , Porter Nikki , Ramachandrannair Rajesh , Raymond Paul , Rutka James , Shapiro Michelle J. , Steven David A. , Swain Darryl , Valiante Taufik , Whiting Sharon , Whitney Robyn , Yau Ivanna , Fantaneanu Tadeu A.
Published: March 2024

There are numerous challenges pertaining to epilepsy care across Ontario, including Epilepsy Monitoring Unit (EMU) bed pressures, surgical access and community supports. We sampled the current clinical, community and operational state of Ontario epilepsy centres and community epilepsy agencies post COVID-19 pandemic. A 44-item survey was distributed to all 11 district and regional adult and paediatric Ontario epilepsy centres. Qualitative responses were collected from community epilepsy agencies. Results revealed ongoing gaps in epilepsy care across Ontario, with EMU bed pressures and labour shortages being limiting factors. A clinical network advising the Ontario Ministry of Health will improve access to epilepsy care.
When data meets citizens: an investigation of citizen engagement in data-driven innovation programmes
Authors: Thuermer Gefion , Walker Johanna , Simperl Elena , Carr Les
Published: March 2024

Publicly funded data-driven innovation programmes frequently involve partnerships between small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and municipal authorities utilizing citizen data. The intention of these projects is to benefit citizens. However, few such projects achieve success or impact within the project timeframe. This may result in benefit accruing mainly to the SME partner, who gains both learning and data, engendering questions of data justice around whether citizen data are being exploited without sufficient benefit returning to citizens. Through case studies composed of interviews and document analysis, we examine how benefits for citizens are conceived and achieved in the publicly funded data-driven air quality projects Data Pitch and Smart Cities Innovation Framework Implementation. We find the differences between the programme funders’ policies had a clear influence on the citizen engagement elements. There are also a number of ways in which the desired citizen engagement and benefit becomes diluted, including through misalignment of incentives and focus, a lack of prioritization and ownership, and power imbalances between citizens and the other actors in the quadruple helix model. To retain the focus on ensuring citizens benefit from data-driven innovation programmes using citizen data, we propose the use of data Justice plans. More work is required to specify the content and mechanisms of such plans for application in such programmes.
Suppressing filamentation instability due to laser beam self-filtering
Authors: Silin Dmitry , Khazanov Efim
Published: March 2024

The development of small-scale self-focusing in a nonlinear Kerr medium after preliminary self-filtering of a laser beam propagating in free space is studied numerically. It is shown that, under definite conditions, due to self-filtering, filamentation instability (beam splitting into filaments) either occurs at significantly larger values of the B-integral, or does not occur at all. In the latter case, there develops the honeycomb instability revealed in this work. This instability is the formation of a random honeycomb structure in the beam cross-section. It is shown that self-filtering can significantly increase the permissible values of the B-integral, at which the beam quality remains acceptable.
Sexual Violence and Two Types of Moral Wrongs
Authors: Lin Ting-an
Published: March 2024

Although the idea that sexual violence is a “structural” problem is not new, the lack of specification as to what that entails blocks effective responses to it. This paper illustrates the concept of sexual violence as structural in the sense of containing a type of moral wrong called “structural wrong” and discusses its practical implications. First, I introduce a distinction between two types of moral wrongs—interactional wrongs and structural wrongs—and I argue that the moral problem of sexual violence includes both types, each of which calls for a different set of moral responses. Second, drawing on Iris Marion Young's social connection model of responsibility, I argue that recognizing the structural-wrong element of sexual violence does not reduce individual perpetrators’ responsibility for it. Instead, it implies that a broader group of agents are required to join collective actions to reform the social structure. I conclude by evaluating some preventive programs against sexual violence through the lens of structural wrongs and providing directions to advance them.
Epistemic Diversity and Epistemic Advantage: A Comparison of Two Causal Theories in Feminist Epistemology
Authors: Jeong Tay
Published: March 2024

Feminist epistemology aims to propose epistemic reasons for increasing the representation of women or socially subordinated people in science. This is typically done—albeit often only implicitly—by positing a causal mechanism through which the representation of sociodemographic minorities exerts a positive effect on scientific advancement. Two types of causal theories can be identified. The “epistemic diversity thesis” presents a causal path from sociodemographic diversity to scientific progress mediated by epistemic diversity. The “thesis of epistemic advantage” proposes a causal path from social subjugation to capacity for inquiry. The latter theory is defined with substantial ambiguity in the existing literature, and I present an explicit causal reformulation that disambiguates it. The epistemic diversity thesis focuses on the effect of group composition on collective epistemic performance and is largely silent about what kind of characteristics lead to individual epistemic excellence. On the other hand, the thesis of epistemic advantage seeks to identify sociodemographic background conditions that make certain epistemic agents strictly better knowers or inquirers than others and pays little attention to the synergistic effects of diverse group composition. Such a difference in the causal structure reflects the diverging political characteristics of the two theories.
Spatial discretization effects in spanwise forcing for turbulent drag reduction
Authors: Gallorini Emanuele , Quadrio Maurizio
Published: March 2024

Wall-based spanwise forcing has been experimentally used with success by Auteriet al.(Phys. Fluids, vol. 22, 2010, 115103) to obtain large reductions of turbulent skin-friction drag and considerable energy savings in a pipe flow. The spatial distribution of the azimuthal wall velocity used in the experiment was not continuous, but piecewise constant. The present study is a numerical replica of the experiment, based on a set of direct numerical simulations (DNS); its goal is the identification of the effects of spatially discrete forcing, as opposed to the idealized sinusoidal forcing considered in the majority of numerical studies. Regardless of the discretization, with DNS the maximum drag reduction is found to be larger: the flow easily reaches complete relaminarization, whereas the experiment was capped at 33 % drag reduction. However, the key result stems from the observation that, for the piecewise-constant forcing, the apparent irregularities of the experimental data appear in the simulation data too. They derive from the rich harmonic content of the discontinuous travelling wave, which alters the drag reduction of the sinusoidal forcing. A detailed understanding of the contribution of each harmonic reveals that, whenever for example technological limitations constrain one to work far from the optimal forcing parameters, a discrete forcing may perform very differently from the corresponding ideal sinusoid, and in principle can outperform it. However, care should be exercised in comparison, as discrete and continuous forcing have different energy requirements.