bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Creating and validating the Fine-Grained Question Subjectivity Dataset (FQSD): A new benchmark for enhanced automatic subjective question answering systems
Authors: Babaali Marzieh , Fatemi Afsaneh , Nematbakhsh Mohammad Ali
Published: May 2024

In the domain of question subjectivity classification, there exists a need for detailed datasets that can foster advancements in Automatic Subjective Question Answering (ASQA) systems. Addressing the prevailing research gaps, this paper introduces the Fine-Grained Question Subjectivity Dataset (FQSD), which comprises 10,000 questions. The dataset distinguishes between subjective and objective questions and offers additional categorizations such as Subjective-types (Target, Attitude, Reason, Yes/No, None) and Comparison-form (Single, Comparative). Annotation reliability was confirmed via robust evaluation techniques, yielding a Fleiss’s Kappa score of 0.76 and Pearson correlation values up to 0.80 among three annotators. We benchmarked FQSD against existing datasets such as (Yu, Zha, and Chua 2012), SubjQA (Bjerva 2020), and ConvEx-DS (Hernandez-Bocanegra 2021). Our dataset excelled in scale, linguistic diversity, and syntactic complexity, establishing a new standard for future research. We employed visual methodologies to provide a nuanced understanding of the dataset and its classes. Utilizing transformer-based models like BERT, XLNET, and RoBERTa for validation, RoBERTa achieved an outstanding F1-score of 97%, confirming the dataset’s efficacy for the advanced subjectivity classification task. Furthermore, we utilized Local Interpretable Model-agnostic Explanations (LIME) to elucidate model decision-making, ensuring transparent and reliable model predictions in subjectivity classification tasks.
Mortality and resource utilization in surgical versus transcatheter repeat mitral valve replacement: A national analysis
Authors: Le Nguyen K. , Chervu Nikhil , Mallick Saad , Vadlakonda Amulya , Kim Shineui , Curry Joanna , Benharash Peyman
Published: May 2024

Background

Transcatheter mitral valve replacement (TMVR) has garnered interest as a viable alternative to the traditional surgical mitral valve replacement (SMVR) for high-risk patients requiring redo operations. This study aims to evaluate the association of TMVR with selected clinical and financial outcomes.

Methods

Adults undergoing isolated redo mitral valve replacement were identified in the 2016–2020 Nationwide Readmissions Database and categorized into TMVR or SMVR cohorts. Various regression models were developed to assess the association between TMVR and in-hospital mortality, as well as additional secondary outcomes. Transseptal and transapical catheter-based approaches were also compared in relation to study endpoints.

Results

Of an estimated 7,725 patients, 2,941 (38.1%) underwent TMVR. During the study period, the proportion of TMVR for redo operations increased from 17.8% to 46.7% (nptrend<0.001). Following adjustment, TMVR was associated with similar odds of in-hospital mortality (AOR 0.82, p = 0.48), but lower odds of stroke (AOR 0.44, p = 0.001), prolonged ventilation (AOR 0.43, p<0.001), acute kidney injury (AOR 0.61, p<0.001), and reoperation (AOR 0.29, p = 0.02). TMVR was additionally correlated with shorter postoperative length of stay (pLOS; β -0.98, p<0.001) and reduced costs (β -$10,100, p = 0.002). Additional analysis demonstrated that the transseptal approach had lower adjusted mortality (AOR 0.44, p = 0.02), shorter adjusted pLOS (β -0.43, p<0.001), but higher overall costs (β $5,200, p = 0.04), compared to transapical.

Conclusions

In this retrospective cohort study, we noted TMVR to yield similar odds of in-hospital mortality as SMVR, but fewer complications and reduced healthcare expenditures. Moreover, transseptal approaches were associated with lower adjusted mortality, shorter pLOS, but higher cost, relative to the transapical. Our findings suggest that TMVR represent a cost-effective and safe treatment modality for patients requiring redo mitral valve procedures. Nevertheless, future studies examining long-term outcomes associated with SMVR and TMVR in redo mitral valve operations, are needed.
Enhancing HIV positivity yield in southern Mozambique: The effect of a Ministry of Health training module in targeted provider-initiated testing and counselling
Authors: Saura-Lázaro Anna , Fernández-Luis Sheila , Nhampossa Tacilta , Fuente-Soro Laura , López-Varela Elisa , Bernardo Edson , Augusto Orvalho , Sánchez Teresa , Vaz Paula , Wei Stanley C. , Kerndt Peter , Honwana Nely , Young Peter , Amane Guita , Boene Fernando , Naniche Denise
Published: May 2024

In Mozambique, targeted provider-initiated HIV testing and counselling (PITC) is recommended where universal PITC is not feasible, but its effectiveness depends on healthcare providers’ training. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of a Ministry of Health training module in targeted PITC on the HIV positivity yield, and identify factors associated with a positive HIV test. We conducted a single-group pre-post study between November 2018 and November 2019 in the triage and emergency departments of four healthcare facilities in Manhiça District, a resource-constrained semi-rural area. It consisted of two two-month phases split by a one-week targeted PITC training module (“observation phases”). The HIV positivity yield of targeted PITC was estimated as the proportion of HIV-positive individuals among those recommended for HIV testing by the provider. Additionally, we extracted aggregated health information system data over the four months preceding and following the observation phases to compare yield in real-world conditions (“routine phases”). Logistic regression analysis from observation phase data was conducted to identify factors associated with a positive HIV test. Among the 7,102 participants in the pre- and post-training observation phases (58.5% and 41.5% respectively), 68% were women, and 96% were recruited at triage. In the routine phases with 33,261 individuals (45.8% pre, 54.2% post), 64% were women, and 84% were seen at triage. While HIV positivity yield between pre- and post-training observation phases was similar (10.9% (269/2470) and 11.1% (207/1865), respectively), we observed an increase in yield in the post-training routine phase for women in triage, rising from 4.8% (74/1553) to 7.3% (61/831) (Yield ratio = 1.54; 95%CI: 1.11–2.14). Age (25–49 years) (OR = 2.43; 95%CI: 1.37–4.33), working in industry/mining (OR = 4.94; 95%CI: 2.17–11.23), unawareness of partner’s HIV status (OR = 2.50; 95%CI: 1.91–3.27), and visiting a healer (OR = 1.74; 95%CI: 1.03–2.93) were factors associated with a positive HIV test. Including these factors in the targeted PITC algorithm could have increased new HIV diagnoses by 2.6%. In conclusion, providing refresher training and adapting the current targeted PITC algorithm through further research can help reach undiagnosed PLHIV, treat all, and ultimately eliminate HIV, especially in resource-limited rural areas.
Dynamic analysis and optimal control of stochastic information cross-dissemination and variation model with random parametric perturbations
Authors: Kang Sida , Liu Tianhao , Liu Hongyu , Hu Yuhan , Hou Xilin
Published: May 2024

Information dissemination has a significant impact on social development. This paper considers that there are many stochastic factors in the social system, which will result in the phenomena of information cross-dissemination and variation. The dual-system stochastic susceptible-infectious-mutant-recovered model of information cross-dissemination and variation is derived from this problem. Afterward, the existence of the global positive solution is demonstrated, sufficient conditions for the disappearance of information and its stationary distribution are calculated, and the optimal control strategy for the stochastic model is proposed. The numerical simulation supports the results of the theoretical analysis and is compared to the parameter variation of the deterministic model. The results demonstrate that cross-dissemination of information can result in information variation and diffusion. Meanwhile, white noise has a positive effect on information dissemination, which can be improved by adjusting the perturbation parameters.
Exploring the association between the Arabic version of the Traffic Locus of Control, driving behavior, and road traffic crashes: A multidimensional approach
Authors: Youssef Dalal , Salameh Pascale , Salmi Louis-Rachid
Published: May 2024

The Traffic Locus of Control scale (T-LOC) serves as a measure of drivers’ personality attributes, providing insights into their perceptions of potential causes of road traffic crashes (RTCs). This study meticulously evaluated the psychometric properties of the Arabic version of T-LOC (T-LOC-A) among Lebanese drivers. Additionally, the study aimed to explore associations between the T-LOC scale and various driving variables, including driver behavior, accident involvement, and traffic offenses. A cross-sectional study was conducted among Lebanese drivers using a face-to-face approach. The validation of the Arabic version of T-LOC (T-LOC-A) occurred through a two-stage process: translating and culturally adapting T-LOC in the first stage, and testing its psychometric properties in the second stage. Data were collected using a comprehensive self-reported questionnaire in Arabic, covering demographic and travel-related variables, risk involvement, and measures such as the Driver Behavior Questionnaire (DBQ) and T-LOC. Exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis were performed to scrutinize the factorial structure of T-LOC. Pearson correlation and chi-square tests were used for continuous and categorical variables, respectively. Two logistic regression analyses were executed to probe associations between T-LOC and involvement in road traffic crashes (RTCs) and T-LOC subscales with the occurrence of traffic offenses. The study included 568 drivers, predominantly male (69%) and aged between 30 and 49 years (42.1%). The findings revealed that T-LOC-A exhibited robust psychometric properties, with excellent reliabilities (α = 0.85) and adherence to the original four-factor structure, encompassing self (α = 0.88), other drivers (α = 0.91), vehicle/environment (α = 0.86), and fate (α = 0.66). The multidimensional structure was statistically supported by favorable fit indices. Gender differences revealed men attributing responsibility to other drivers, while women leaned towards fate and luck beliefs. Regarding driver behavior, the "other drivers" and self-dimensions of T-LOC-A correlated positively with aggressive violations. The fate dimension showed positive associations with aggressive violations and lapses. The "other drivers" subscale correlated positively with errors, and the vehicle/environment subscale with lapses. External T-LOC factors were positively associated with accident involvement, while the "LOC self" factor emerged as a protective element. In terms of traffic offenses, "LOC fate" displayed a positive association, while the "LOC self" factor showed a protective effect. In conclusion, the Arabic T-LOC is a reliable and valuable instrument, suggesting potential improvements in driving safety by addressing drivers’ locus of control perceptions.
An auditory brain-computer interface based on selective attention to multiple tone streams
Authors: Kojima Simon , Kanoh Shin’ichiro
Published: May 2024

In this study, we attempted to improve brain-computer interface (BCI) systems by means of auditory stream segregation in which alternately presented tones are perceived as sequences of various different tones (streams). A 3-class BCI using three tone sequences, which were perceived as three different tone streams, was investigated and evaluated. Each presented musical tone was generated by a software synthesizer. Eleven subjects took part in the experiment. Stimuli were presented to each user’s right ear. Subjects were requested to attend to one of three streams and to count the number of target stimuli in the attended stream. In addition, 64-channel electroencephalogram (EEG) and two-channel electrooculogram (EOG) signals were recorded from participants with a sampling frequency of 1000 Hz. The measured EEG data were classified based on Riemannian geometry to detect the object of the subject’s selective attention. P300 activity was elicited by the target stimuli in the segregated tone streams. In five out of eleven subjects, P300 activity was elicited only by the target stimuli included in the attended stream. In a 10-fold cross validation test, a classification accuracy over 80% for five subjects and over 75% for nine subjects was achieved. For subjects whose accuracy was lower than 75%, either the P300 was also elicited for nonattended streams or the amplitude of P300 was small. It was concluded that the number of selected BCI systems based on auditory stream segregation can be increased to three classes, and these classes can be detected by a single ear without the aid of any visual modality.
The role of pain self-efficacy and pain catastrophising in the relationship between chronic pain and depression: A moderated mediation model
Authors: Kardash Lauren , Wall Cindy Lee , Flack Mal , Searle Amelia
Published: May 2024

Chronic pain is a substantial health problem with a high prevalence of comorbid depression. To understand the link between chronic pain and depression, cognitive factors including pain catastrophising and pain self-efficacy have been theorised as significant contributing variables. There is relatively strong evidence that pain catastrophising mediates the relationship between pain severity and depression symptoms. There is also emerging evidence that the mediation role of pain catastrophising may vary as a function of pain self-efficacy. However, it is unknown whether this model will apply in a tertiary pain clinic sample. Thus, this study aimed to examine the respective moderating and mediating roles of pain self-efficacy and pain catastrophising on the association between pain severity and depressive symptoms in a large clinical sample of Australian adults living with chronic pain. Participants (n = 1195) completed all questionnaire measures prior to their first appointments at one tertiary pain service. As expected, the PROCESS path analysis showed that pain catastrophising mediated the relationship between pain severity and depressive symptoms. Further, there was support for the moderating effect of pain self-efficacy; as pain self-efficacy decreased, the relationship strengthened between both pain severity and pain catastrophising, as well as pain catastrophising and depressive symptoms. These findings may have important clinical implications including how relationships between these factors may be considered in the provision of care for those with chronic pain. Notably, these measures could be used in triaging processes to inform treatment decisions.
Examining the relationship between social determinants of health, measures of structural racism and county-level overdose deaths from 2017–2020
Authors: Lindenfeld Zoe , Silver Diana , Pagán José A. , Zhang Donglan Stacy , Chang Ji Eun
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Despite being an important determinant of health outcomes, measures of structural racism are lacking in studies examining the relationship between the social determinants of health (SDOH) and overdose deaths. The aim of this study is to examine the association between per capita revenue generated from fines and forfeitures, a novel measure of structural racism, and other SDOH with county-level overdose deaths from 2017–2020.

Methods

This longitudinal analysis of 2,846 counties from 2017–2020 used bivariate and multivariate Generalized Estimating Equations models to estimate associations between county overdose mortality rates and SDOH characteristics, including the fines and forfeitures measure.

Results

In our multivariate model, higher per capita fine and forfeiture revenue (5.76; CI: 4.76, 6.78), households receiving food stamps (1.15; CI: 0.77, 1.53), residents that are veterans (1.07; CI: 0.52, 1.63), substance use treatment availability (4.69; CI: 3.03, 6.33) and lower population density (-0.002; CI: -0.004, -0.001) and percent of Black residents (-0.7`; CI: -1.01, -0.42) were significantly associated with higher overdose death rates. There was a significant additive interaction between the fines and forfeitures measure (0.10; CI: 0.03, 0.17) and the percent of Black residents.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that structural racism, along with other SDOH, is associated with overdose deaths. Future research should focus on connecting individual-level data on fines and forfeitures to overdose deaths and other health outcomes, include measures of justice-related fines, such as court fees, and assess whether interventions aimed at increasing economic vitality in disadvantaged communities impact overdose deaths in a meaningful way.
Frailty and risk of systemic atherosclerosis: A bidirectional Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Xu Liugang , Wang Yajun , Ji Hongyun , Du Wei , You Chunhui , Chen Jin , Jiang Jianyu , Shan Yisi , Pan Qian , Cao Ruihong
Published: May 2024

Background

Numerous observational studies have reported an association between frailty and atherosclerosis. However, the causal relationship between frailty and the occurrence of atherosclerosis in different anatomical sites remains unclear. we conducted a bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) study to evaluate the causal relationship between the frailty index (FI), and both systemic atherosclerosis and lipids.

Methods

We obtained summary statistics from large-scale genome-wide association studies (GWAS) of various phenotypes, including frailty (n = 175,226), coronary atherosclerosis (n = 56,685), cerebral atherosclerosis (n = 150,765), peripheral arterial disease (PAD) (n = 361,194), atherosclerosis at other sites (n = 17,832), LDL-C (n = 201,678), HDL-C (n = 77,409), and triglycerides (n = 78,700). The primary MR analysis employed the inverse variance weighted (IVW) method. Furthermore, to assess reverse causality, we employed inverse MR and multivariate MR analysis.

Results

Genetically predicted FI showed positive associations with the risk of coronary atherosclerosis (OR = 1.47, 95% CI 1.12–1.93) and cerebral atherosclerosis (OR = 1.99, 95% CI 1.05–3.78), with no significant association (p >0.05) applied to peripheral arterial disease and atherosclerosis at other sites. Genetically predicted FI was positively associated with the risk of triglycerides (OR = 1.31, 95% CI 1.08–1.59), negatively associated with the risk of LDL-C (OR = 0.87, 95% CI 0.78–0.97), and showed no significant association with the risk of HDL-C (p >0.05). Furthermore, both reverse MR and multivariate MR analyses demonstrated a correlation between systemic atherosclerosis, lipids, and increased FI.

Conclusion

Our study elucidated that genetically predicted FI is associated with the risk of coronary atherosclerosis and cerebral atherosclerosis by the MR analysis method, and they have a bidirectional causal relationship. Moreover, genetically predicted FI was causally associated with triglyceride and LDL-C levels. Further understanding of this association is crucial for optimizing medical practice and care models specifically tailored to frail populations.
Velikaya sila (1950) y lysenkoismo en biología animal
Authors: Franciscon Moises Wagner
Published: May 2024

Muy conocido en botánica, el lysenkoísmo también actuó en biología animal. Esta faceta menos manifiesta fue exhibida ante millones de espectadores en la Unión Soviética y otros países del bloque del Este a través de la película Velikaya sila, 1950, de Friedrich Ermler. La sociohistoria cinematográfica de Marc Ferro permite analizar la película como transmisora ​​de las preocupaciones y autolegitimaciones del régimen, así como de las ideas de charlatanería sobre la ciencia creadas por Lysenko. Al comienzo de la Guerra Fría, un tema aparentemente insípido como la biología animal se convirtió en el centro de la lucha cultural entre los imperios colonialistas occidentales y el imperio soviético.
FEATURES OF ACCUMULATION OF PHENOLIC COMPOUNDS IN ENDEMIC SPECIES ASTRAGALUS IONAE PALIBIN AND A. PALIBINII POLOZHIJ GROWING ON THE TERRITORY OF THE REPUBLIC OF KHAKASIA
Authors: Kotsupii Olga Viktorovna , Shemetova Tatyana Aleksandrovna
Published: May 2024

The features of the accumulation of flavonoid glycosides and hydroxybenzoic and hydroxycinnamic acids have been studied in the leaves of endemic Astragalus ionae Palibin and A. palibinii Polozhij of different ecological and geographical growing conditions of the Republic of Khakasia by HPLC method. Luteolin-7-glucoside, rutin, kaempferol-3-O-β-rutinoside, and 3 quercetin glycosides were identified from 8 glycosides of flavonoids from the leaves of A. ionae plants. Six flavonoid glycosides were found in the leaves of A. palibinii, luteolin-7-glucoside, rutin, kaempferol-3-O-β-rutinoside, and isorhamnetin-3-O-β-rutinoside were identified. No differences were found in the composition of hydroxybenzoic and hydroxycinnamic acids in plants of the studied taxa. Gallic, p-hydroxybenzoic, neochlorogenic, chlorogenic, caffeic, p-coumaric, and ferulic acids were identified in the leaves of A. ionae and A. palibinii. The differences between these species in terms of the content of phenolic compounds are most pronounced in the fact that A. ionae plants accumulate more luteolin-7-glucoside, the sum of flavonoid glycosides, and hydroxybenzoic acids. The content of phenolic compounds in plants of different coenopopulations is influenced by ecological and coenotic factors. In arid xerophytic and petrophytic communities more characteristic of these species, more caffeic acid and rutin accumulate, as well as the amount of hydroxycinnamic acids.
The development of methods for determination the total flavonoids in buds of Populus alba L.
Authors: Kurkin Vladimir Aleksandrovich , Kurkina Anna Vladimirovna , Kosenko Anna Aleksandrovana
Published: May 2024

White poplar (Populus alba L.,  family Saliaceae ) has a similar chemical composition with other species of the genus Populus L. and it can consider as a promising source of raw materials containing phenolic compounds, in particular flavonoids. The pharmacological activity of the buds of pharmacopeial species of genus Populus L., and also of the white poplar is caused by biologically active compounds, mainly of a phenolic nature, including flavonoids (pinostrobin, piriocembrin, quercetin, etc.), phenylpropanoids (caffeic acid, etc.) and simple phenols (salicin).. One of the most well-known biologically active compounds of white poplar is quercetin, for which an antihistamine, anti-inflammatory action has been demonstrated. Differential spectrophotometry carried out in accordance with the OFS was used as a research method.1.2.1.1.0003.15 "Spectrophotometry in the ultraviolet and visible regions". Spectral characteristics of water-alcohol extracts were evaluated on a Specord 40 spectrophotometer (Analytik Jena AG, Germany) in cuvettes with a layer thickness of 10 mm.
It was determined that in all electronic spectra of the water-ethanolic extractions from the buds of the white poplar there are two absorption maxima  in the area of 290 nm and 370 nm, due to flavanones and flavonols, respectively. It was established that in the electronic spectra of the water-ethanolic extractions from the buds of the white poplar, a  significant bathochromic shift of the long-wavelength band in the presence of aluminum chloride is observed, which confirms the presence of flavonoids. Under the conditions of differential spectrophotometry UV spectrum of the water-ethanolic extractions from the buds of the white poplar, an absorption maximum is observed at wavelength of 430 nm, which indicates the expediency of using quercetin in the analysis technique, which has an absorption maximum at a wavelength of 430±2 nm. As a result of the study, the method  has been developed for the quantitative determination of the amount of flavonoids in the buds of white poplar using differential spectrophotometry calculated on quercetin at an analytical wavelength of 430 nm. The optimal parameters of extraction of raw materials were determined: extractant – 90% ethyl alcohol, the ratio of "raw material-extractant" – 1:30, extraction time – 60 minutes. The content of the total flavonoids calculated on quercetin in the buds of the white poplar is varied from 0,45±0,02 %  to 0.69 ± 0.03%
Diversity reflection: an approach towards provoking diverse thinking within social work and social pedagogy training
Authors: Koglek Robert
Published: May 2024

Teaching diversity in social pedagogy and social work training is vital for promoting inclusivity, cultural competence, empathy and effective practice. It supports students in their personal development and equips them to navigate today’s interconnected world. Inspired by bell hooks’s Teaching to Transgress: Education as the practice of freedom, this article describes diversity reflection – an approach that invites students’ and teachers’ diverse thinking – and how it can be implemented in preparation for and delivery of diversity training for future social pedagogues and social workers. The article also explores why it is important to embrace diversity as an aspect in professional reflection. It outlines how such reflection should take place on a micro, mezzo and macro level. Finally, it introduces further aspects of teaching diversity, including the need for lecturers to exercise professional and personal reflection and how the teacher’s diversity influences preparation and delivery of diversity training.
Numero 184 - mai 2024
Authors: Toniotti Martial
Published: May 2024

La taxation du patrimoine est défendue par de nombreuses organisations dans notre pays. À l’approche des échéances électorales de cette année, nous proposons une nouvelle méthode d’estimation du revenu fiscal que pourrait rapporter à l’État une taxe à 1% à partir d’un patrimoine de 1 million d’€, à 2% à partir de 2 millions d’€ et à 3% à partir de 3 millions d’€. La réponse se situe autour de 10 milliards d’€. Notre méthode s’appuie sur des données récentes et fiables du patrimoine des ménages belges.
Exzellent forschen in gesellschaftlicher Verantwortung: Ergebnisse des Projekts LeNa-Shape
Authors: Maikämper Moritz , Walz Rainer
Published: May 2024

Steigende gesellschaftliche Erwartungen an Wissenschaft fordern das herkömmliche Verständnis guter Forschung heraus. Im Rahmen des vom Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung geförderten Verbundvorhabens LeNa Shape haben Forscher(innen) von drei Universitäten
sowie aus neun Einrichtungen der vier großen außeruniversitären Forschungsorganisationen Fraunhofer, Helmholtz, Leibniz und Max-Planck ein ganzheitliches Verständnis von exzellentem Forschen in gesellschaftlicher Verantwortung entwickelt. Die zentralen Ergebnisse, ein
Positionspapier und eine Toolbox, werden hier vorgestellt.
UniNEtZ beWEGt ‐ Hochschulen!
Authors: Allerberger Franziska , Holzinger Eva-Maria , Badura Jens , Beringer Elena , Bohunovsky Lisa , Fehr Franz , Höltl Andrea , Huebener Birgit , Neuhold Elfriede , Russegger Georg , Stötter Johann
Published: May 2024

Wie sehen Hochschulen der Zukunft aus? Wie wird dort Wissenschaft und Kunst gedacht und gelebt? Um diese und weitere Fragen zu erkunden und mögliche Antworten zu finden, macht sich eine ,,Wander-Gruppe“ des Projekts UniNEtZ ‐ Universitäten und Nachhaltige
Entwicklungsziele im Rahmen der Aktivität UniNEtZ beWEGt ‐ Hochschulen! auf den Weg quer durch die Hochschullandschaft in Österreich. Gehen im Sinne des Gehens ist ein integraler Bestandteil von UniNEtZ beWEGt.
Putting gene drives into context: Risks, depth of intervention, and regulatory challenges
Authors: Rabitz Florian , Giese Bernd , Kelz Rosine , Otto Mathias , Potthast Thomas , Quilodrán Claudio S. , Teixeira Leonardo H.
Published: May 2024

Engineered gene drives are an emerging technology for the large-scale genetic modification of natural populations of species. They are controversial due to high levels of uncertainty about their risks and benefits. We analyze gene drives in their social, natural, and technological contexts.
We discuss their depth of intervention and compare gene drives to “conventional” genetic modification techniques and to other novel high-impact technologies. While gene drives might overpromise and under-deliver solutions for problems of sustainable development, they also represent
a paradigm shift in human technological interference with nature, thus requiring broad discussion in society.
Procedural Fairness as Stepping Stone for Successful Implementation of Algorithmic Decision-Making in Public Administration: Review and Outlook
Authors: Hoeppner Sven , Samek Martin
Published: May 2024

Algorithmic decision-making (ADM) is becoming more and more prevalent in everyday life. Due to their promise of producing faster, better, and less biased decisions, automated and data-driven processes also receive increasing attention in many different administrative settings. However, as a result of human mistakes ADM also poses the threat of producing unfair outcomes. Looming algorithmic discrimination can undermine the legitimacy of administrative decision-making. While lawyers and lawmakers face the age-old question of regulation, many decision-makers tasked with designing ADM for and implementing ADM in public administration wrestle with harnessing its advantages and limiting its disadvantages. “Algorithmic fairness” has evolved as key concept in developing algorithmic systems to counter detrimental outcomes. We provide a review of the vast literature on algorithmic fairness and show how key dimensions alter people’s perception of whether an algorithm is fair. In doing so, we provide entry point into this literature for anybody who is required to think about algorithmic fairness, particularly in an public administration context. We also pinpoint critical concerns about algorithmic fairness that public officials and researchers should note.
Assessment of heat transfer capabilities of some known nanofluids under turbulent flow conditions in a five-turn spiral pipe flow
Authors: Danışmaz Merdin , Demirbilek Mesut
Published: May 2024

In this study, the thermo-flow behaviours of the spiral tube were examined using water and some nanofluids such as TiO2, Al2O3, Fe2O3, CuO, ZnO, and CeO2. The computational flow dynamic modelling of the spiral coiled tube was performed with ANSYS 20 software program. The k–ε model with a standard wall function was used to simulate the thermo-flow characteristics. The solution of the governing equations was performed using the discretization method of finite volume. The study was carried out considering the case of fluid-to-fluid heat transfer in turbulent conditions. The influence of different key design parameters such as Reynolds number, different nanofluids, and flow arrangements was of main interest. The volume concentration of the nanofluids is 1%. The experiments were performed at different Reynolds ranges (9,000, 14,000, 20,000, and 25,000). The outlet temperature values, heat transfer coefficient, coefficient of friction, Nusselt number values of water, and nanofluids were found and compared. It was found that the outlet temperature, heat transfer coefficient, and Nusselt number values of water were the lowest, while the coefficient of friction value was the highest compared to the nanofluids. Among the nanofluids, CeO was found to have the highest outlet temperature, heat transfer coefficient, and Nusselt number value, as well as the lowest coefficient of friction value. TiO2 was found to have the lowest outlet temperature (T
out), the heat transfer coefficient value, and the highest coefficient of friction value. Al2O3 was found to have the lowest Nusselt number. In addition, Nusselt number values were obtained at different Dean numbers of water (2,200, 3,400, 4,900, 6,100, 7,350, and 8,600) and found to be compatible with previous studies. In addition, the coefficients of friction values of water at different velocities (0.18, 0.24, 0.41, 0.71, 0.95, 1.07, and 1.18) were obtained and found to be compatible with previous studies.
Numerical study of blood-based MHD tangent hyperbolic hybrid nanofluid flow over a permeable stretching sheet with variable thermal conductivity and cross-diffusion
Authors: Senthilvadivu Karuppiah , Loganathan Karuppusamy , Abbas Mohamed , Alqahtani Mohammed S.
Published: May 2024

Modern heat transport processes such as fuel cells, hybrid engines, microelectronics, refrigerators, heat exchangers, grinding, coolers, machining, and pharmaceutical operations may benefit from the unique properties of nanoliquids. By considering

Al

2

O

3

{{\rm{Al}}}_{2}{{\rm{O}}}_{3}

nanoparticles as a solo model and

Al

2

O

3

–
Cu

{{\rm{Al}}}_{2}{{\rm{O}}}_{3}{\rm{\mbox{--}}}{\rm{Cu}}

as hybrid nanocomposites in a hyperbolic tangent fluid, numerical simulations for heat and mass transfer have been established. To compare the thermal acts of the nanofluid and hybrid nanofluid, bvp4c computes the solution for the created mathematical equations with the help of MATLAB software. The impacts of thermal radiation, such as altering thermal conductivity and cross-diffusion, as well as flow and thermal facts, including a stretchy surface with hydromagnetic, and Joule heating, were also included. Furthermore, the hybrid nanofluid generates heat faster than a nanofluid. The temperature and concentration profiles increase with the Dufour and the Soret numbers, respectively. The upsurge permeability and Weissenberg parameter decline to the velocity. An upsurge variable of the thermal conductivity grows to the temperature profile. Compared to the nanofluids, the hybrid nanofluids have higher thermal efficiency, making them a more effective working fluid. The magnetic field strength significantly reduces the movement and has a striking effect on the width of the momentum boundary layer.
Fractional view analytical analysis of generalized regularized long wave equation
Authors: Ganie Abdul Hamid , Yasmin Humaira , Alderremy Aisha A. , Alshehry Azzh Saad , Aly Shaban
Published: May 2024

In this research study, we focus on the generalized regularized long wave equation and the modified regularized long wave equation, which play pivotal roles in characterizing plasma waves in oceans and ion acoustic waves in shallow water, a domain deeply rooted in physical phenomena. Employing two computational techniques, namely, the optimal auxiliary function method and the Laplace iterative transform method, we approximate these equations. These formulas are used to characterize plasma waves in oceans and ion acoustic waves in shallow water. The results discovered have important ramifications for our comprehension of many physical events. Our results show that both methods are robust, easy to use, and successful. Both methods yield results that are satisfactory to each other. With the use of tables and graphs, we compared the two suggested approaches. The findings suggest that the suggested methods can be widely applied to explore other real-world problems.
Chemical constituents from the Saposhnikovia divaricata and their antiproliferative activity
Authors: Sun Yan , Liu Yan , Yang Rui , Wang Si-Yi , Pan Juan , Guan Wei , Kuang Hai-Xue , Wang Yan-Hong , Yang Bing-You
Published: May 2024

Nine compounds were isolated and identified from ethanolic extracts of Saposhnikovia divaricata, including one new alkaloid (1), one new pentacyclic triterpenoid (9), and seven known alkaloids (2–8). Structural elucidation of compounds 1 and 9 was established by 1D and 2D NMR spectra referring to the literature, together with high-resolution mass spectrometric analysis. All compounds were evaluated for antiproliferative activity against two cancer cell lines (LN229, A549) in vitro. Compounds (1–9) showed no significant antiproliferative activity.
Epistemological foundations of economics: the philosophical problem of ranking
Authors: Szabó Balázs , Nemeskéri Zsolt
Published: May 2024

In our article, we examine the philosophical challenges of ranking that are economically significant from multiple angles. With our findings, we want to demonstrate that ranking in the actual world is a far more sophisticated, partially context-dependent behaviour enacted via specialised decision-making systems. In some ranking scenarios, the exact preference relation may vary depending on whatever basic set of phenomena we are discussing. On this basis, we can limit the scope of economic modelling to exclude, for instance, aesthetic value judgments. In the study, we would like to demonstrate the importance of the philosophical substantiation of economic phenomena.
Sustainability and innovation in an educational context
Authors: Szilágyi Tamás , Dudok Fanni
Published: May 2024

Innovation and sustainability will be of utmost importance in the educational workshops of the next decades and will necessitate distinct techniques and specialised skills. Regarding education, sustainability, and environmental awareness, the European Union has issued a number of suggestions to its Member States. These proposals include objectives such as incorporating sustainability into teaching and learning, integrating environmental consciousness into the education system as a whole, and supporting the acquisition of awareness, comprehension, and action-based competencies. Innovation in education is essential to modernising the nation's educational system and preparing pupils for the future. Developing an inventive mentality is a crucial objective of education, as it stimulates creativity, the development of problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to adapt to rapid change. Sustainability and innovation are essential components of contemporary education because they help students prepare for the future, provide chances for practical learning, improve career preparation, and increase environmental consciousness. Students that incorporate these ideas into their schooling will be better equipped to face future obstacles and capture opportunities.
Alternative Hedonism and the Critique of Consumption in the Philosophical Thought of Kate Soper
Authors: Függ Zsolt Péter
Published: May 2024

The focus of this paper is on the philosopher Kate Soper, author of at least a dozen books on feminism and continental philosophy. She has been involved in numerous environmental and peace movements in the UK and elsewhere in Europe, and her work on ecological issues is partly influenced by this. She has published numerous articles in Radical Philosophy, New Left Review and Capitalism Nature Socialism. This paper attempts to summarise her theory of 'alternative hedonism'.
Settlement event satisfaction survey in the shade of the COVID epidemic
Authors: Slezák-Bartos Zsuzsanna
Published: May 2024

The settlement can be successful if the income in the settlement is constantly growing, new companies are settling down, giving jobs to the residents, as well as through cultural, entertainment opportunities and programs, the city management can providemeaningful pastimes for the local residents. The provision of cultural activities has a multifaceted impact on the development of the local economy. By developing or expanding the cultural capabilities, not only the quality of life of the local population can be improved, but also significant economic benefits can be achieved with proper organizational work. Although the crisis caused by the coronavirus epidemic poses a challenge to the economy, the tourism sector, city management and local cooperation need to continue the work started, services such as entertainment, sports, leisure recreation and cultural opportunities in the line with local preferences need to be expanded. The aim of the study is to find out the satisfaction of the people living in the Tolna county seat about the events and organized events. Moreover also looking for an answer how the popularity of Szekszárd wine region events among local residents changed as a result of the crisis caused by the coronavirus. Empirical research – by the opinions of local residents of Szekszárd, students and workers in the city - is based on online questionnaires, in-depth interviews and personal experiences.
Education for Sustainability through Gamification
Authors: Dudok Fanni , Pigniczki-Kovács Eszter
Published: May 2024

The study explores the intersection of sustainability education and gamification, focusing on the application of the "Green Walker" board game in educational settings. It addresses the role of educational institutions in sustainability education, methodological approaches to sustainability education, and the significance and efficacy of gamification in enhancing learning motivation and cognitive skills. The empirical research concentrates on the outcomes of implementing the "Zöld járőr" game in schools, examining its impact on students' sustainability consciousness and attitudes. The findings indicate that gamified educational tools significantly contribute to reinforcing sustainability knowledge and fostering environmentally responsible behaviours among students. The research underscores the importance of integrating sustainability education with gamification in education and highlights the potential benefits of game-based learning for developing sustainability competencies.
Social identity and narrative perspectives
Authors: Szilárdi Réka
Published: May 2024

Balázs Kézdi, in his work entitled Identity and Culture (2001), draws attention to the fact that the concept of identity is ambiguous and overdetermined not only in social science discourse but also in psychology because the concepts of "self" and selfdefinition are often mixed up with the concepts of self-definition. Different theories emphasise different characteristics depending on whether the self is a personal or a social self-definition and whether the process of identification is interpreted as static or situational. Over the last few decades, the psychological literature on identity has increasingly emphasised the narrative nature of identity. This means that people form their interpretations of the world through narratives (including self-narratives), and these narratives are inseparable from the concept of self-determination (László, 2005). The following paper discusses the particular case of collective identity and significant group identification, including the issue of national identity and the role of collective memories. Accordingly, it focuses first on the psychological and cultural approach to the process of peer self-determination, followed by the group history and the resulting theoretical considerations.
Age-Related Differences in Body Fat and Fitness of Firefighters Participating in a Health and Wellness Program
Authors: Lockie Robert G. , Dulla Joseph M. , Higuera Daniel , Ross Kristina , Orr Robin M. , Dawes J. Jay , Ruvalcaba Tomas J.
Published: May 2024

Lockie, RG, Dulla, JM, Higuera, D, Ross, K, Orr, RM, Dawes, JJ, and Ruvalcaba, TJ. Age-related differences in body fat and fitness of firefighters participating in a health and wellness program.J Strength Cond Res38(6): 1127–1135, 2024—Fitness tends to decline, whereas body fat increases, with age, which could impact firefighter occupational performance later in their careers. Health and wellness program participation could reduce these age-related changes. Archival data from 270 firefighters (258 men and 12 women) from a health and wellness program were analyzed. Data included body mass index; body fat percentage (BF%); waist circumference (WC); waist-to-hip ratio (WHR); sit and reach; grip strength; absolute and relative predicted 1 repetition maximum (1RM) leg press; crunches; push-ups; and estimated maximal aerobic capacity (V̇o2max). Firefighters were grouped by age ≤29 (n= 29); 30–34 (n= 44); 35–39 (n= 38); 40–44 (n= 39); 45–49 (n= 48); 50–54 (n= 42); and 55+ (n= 30) years. A univariate analysis of covariance, with sex as a covariate and Bonferroni’s post hoc adjustment, determined between-group differences. Effect sizes (d) were calculated. Key results included that the 55+ group had higher BF% and WC compared with the 3 youngest groups (p≤ 0.002;d= 0.86–1.08). The 50–54 group had higher BF% than the 30–34 group (p= 0.010;d= 0.77). The 55+ group had a greater WHR, lower grip strength, and completed fewer crunches and push-ups than most younger groups (p≤ 0.05;d= 0.60–1.32). The 50–54 and 55+ groups had a lower 1RM leg press and V̇o2max compared with the younger groups (p≤ 0.009;d= 0.77–1.79). The program appeared generally effective, with limited differences in groups below 49 years of age. Greater disparities in fat mass and fitness tended to occur in the older groups (50–54, 55+ groups). The data highlighted that older firefighters were participating in the optional program, which could lead to better health outcomes.
Sustainable Community and Development: A Perception Study in Aizawl City
Authors: Renthlei Emeline , George Abraham , Thanga James L. T.
Published: May 2024

Communities have a critical role in encouraging practices that lead to the making of a sustainable community. Sustainability is a major concern in the contemporary world of depleting resources. The study brings out how people of a community perceive sustainability and to pinpoint areas that need improvement. Our synthesis underscores the interconnectedness of environmental, social, and economic factors in achieving a sustainable community, as articulated by prominent scholars. We extend this discourse by presenting a comprehensive framework that encapsulates essential components, including quality of life, environmental stewardship, affordable housing, sustainable transport, economic prosperity, and resource optimization. By incorporating diverse perspectives, this work contributes to the ongoing dialogue on sustainable community development, emphasizing the importance of holistic considerations and balanced approaches. Data collection was done using a mix of quantitative and qualitative methods of literature review and online survey questionnaires. The findings prove that although most community members are aware of sustainability-related issues, there exist areas that need additional education and awareness-creation. The study delves into the sustainability of the city assessed through the satisfaction level of its habitants taking into account the components of sustainable community. Respondents are mostly satisfied with the social and environmental aspects. Corruption and business run by immigrants are major problems affecting the economic sustainability of the community. Findings of the study provide valuable insights into community perceptions of sustainability and useful in the promotion of future sustainability initiatives and policies.
Inflection Points
Authors: Rich B. Ruby
Published: May 2024

FQ Editor-at-large B. Ruby Rich starts off a year of festival-going with reports from Sundance and Berlin. At Sundance, documentary highlights included Soundtrack to a Coup d’Etat (Johan Grimonprez), about the machinations of world powers, and the United States in particular, in overthrowing the government of the Congo in 1961; and Yance Ford’s Power, a chilling examination of the US police force’s evolution and tainted presence. In Berlin, Rich found that the political turmoil over the war in Gaza couldn’t dim the incandescence of Mati Diop’s Dahomey, winner of the festival’s Golden Bear, which she declares a “masterpiece.”