bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patient Impression of Improvement 1 year After Sacrospinous Hysteropexy Versus Vaginal Hysterectomy in Women with Pelvic Organ Prolapse Stage 2 or Higher
Authors: Stoter Lisa M. , Notten Kim J. B. , Claas Marieke , Tijsseling Deodata , Ruefli Maud , van den Tillaart Femke , van Kuijk Sander M. J. , Milani Alfredo L. , Kluivers Kristin B.
Published: February 2024

Introduction and hypothesis

Patient-reported outcomes are relevant outcomes in studies on pelvic organ prolapse (POP) surgery, as anatomical recurrence alone does not have a significant correlation with perceived improvement. In the present study, the patient’s impression of improvement after 1 year is studied after vaginal hysterectomy (VH) versus sacrospinous hysteropexy (SSH) in large cohorts from daily clinical practice. We hypothesize that there is no difference between the groups.

Methods

This is a secondary analysis on prospectively collected data in a multicenter cohort of patients who underwent VH or SSH for symptomatic POP. All patients had a POP-Q stage ≥ 2 in at least one compartment at baseline and were treated with VH or SSH between 2002 and 2019. The primary outcome was the patient-reported score on the patient global impression of improvement index (PGI-I) 1 year after surgery. The secondary outcome was a composite outcome of surgical success, defined as the absence of recurrent POP beyond the hymen with bothersome bulge symptoms and/or repeat surgery.

Results

A total of 378 women (196 VH and 182 SSH) were included. The median score on the PGI-I did not differ between VH and SSH. At 1 year post-operatively, 77 women after VH (73%) and 77 women after SSH (75%) considered their condition (very) much improved (p = 0.86). There was no difference in composite outcome of surgical success (126 out of 137 women [92%] after VH, 118 out of 125 women [94%] after SSH; p = 0.44).

Conclusions

Our study shows that there was no difference in the type of surgery, VH or SSH, with regard to the patient’s impression of improvement 1 year postoperatively in a large cohort from daily clinical practice.
Feasibility study of in-line particle image velocimetry
Authors: Raffel Markus , Braukmann Johannes N. , Willert Christian E. , Giuseppini Luca , Wolf C. Christian
Published: February 2024

This article describes recent tests and developments of imaging and evaluation techniques for particle image velocimetry (PIV) that exploit the forward scattering of tracer particles by placing the camera in-line with the illuminating light source, such as a laser or a light emitting diode. These techniques have been in use for some time in microscopy and in the design of optical instruments in astronomy. However, they have not yet been used for macroscopic PIV flow measurements. This study highlights the most promising approaches of the various recording configurations and evaluation techniques.
A virtual gym in your pocket: the influence of augmented reality exercise app characteristics on user’s continuance intention
Authors: Sun Yi , Yuan Zihao
Published: February 2024

In recent years, with the development of augmented reality (AR) technology and the prevalence of COVID-19, augmented reality exercise applications (AREAs) have entered people’s lives and changed people’s exercise ways. However, there is still little research on how AREAs affect users’ continuance intention, which limits our deeper understanding of the further use of AREAs by users for the potential benefits they provide. This study investigates the role of AREAs by proposing the original proposition of AREAs characteristic classification based on previous AR literature and dividing their characteristics into two categories: service and system characteristics. Through an online empirical study, 398 valid questionnaires were collected to test the hypotheses using the structural equation model. The results showed that hedonic and utilitarian value and presence are vital inner states which mediate the influence of service and system characteristics on user’s satisfaction and continuance intention. The results further show that only hedonic value is found to have a positive and significant relationship with continuance intention. This study contributes to the literature in the AR field by examining how different AR application characteristics affect user continuance intention in the context of sports and fitness. It also suggests that practitioners should identify the impact of different characteristics on user value and focus on the hedonic aspects of the application.
Single station MILP scheduling in discrete and continuous time
Authors: Muñoz-Díaz María-Luisa , Escudero-Santana Alejandro , Lorenzo-Espejo Antonio , Leus Roel
Published: February 2024

This article focuses on production planning in the metallurgical sector. This study undertakes a detailed comparative study of mixed-integer linear programming models using different time representations: continuous and discrete. The analysis shows that the continuous model consistently outperforms its discrete counterpart in all evaluated scenarios. The key difference between the continuous and discrete models is the continuous model’s ability to deliver better makespan results, achieving an improvement of up to 15% compared to the discrete model. This advantage holds even in complex environments with a high number of tasks and machines, where the continuous model consistently outperforms the discrete model by over 6% in the scenario with the highest number of tasks and machines. This preference extends beyond makespan considerations. The continuous model also maintains an edge in terms of runtime efficiency, achieving better times with a 99% improvement over the discrete model in all scenarios except one. These findings provide concrete evidence for the use of continuous models, which promise more effective production planning in analogous manufacturing domains.
Elevated CD169 expressing monocyte/macrophage promotes systemic inflammation and disease progression in cirrhosis
Authors: Xu Lichen , Huang Chunhong , Zheng Xiaoping , Gao Hainv , Zhang Sainan , Zhu Mengfei , Dai Xiahong , Wang Gang , Wang Jie , Chen Haolu , Zhu Haihong , Chen Zhi
Published: February 2024

Systemic inflammation is related to disease progression and prognosis in patients with advanced cirrhosis. However, the mechanisms underlying the initiation of inflammation are still not fully understood. The role of CD169+ monocyte/macrophage in cirrhotic systemic inflammation was undetected. Flow cytometry analysis was used to detect the percentage and phenotypes of CD169+ monocytes as well as their proinflammatory function in patient-derived cirrhotic tissue and blood. Transcriptome differences between CD169+ and CD169− monocytes were also compared. Additionally, a mouse model with specific depletion of CD169+ monocytes/macrophages was utilized to define their role in liver injury and fibrosis. We observed increased CD169 expression in monocytes from cirrhotic patients, which was correlated with inflammatory cytokine production and disease progression. CD169+ monocytes simultaneously highly expressed M1- and M2-like markers and presented immune-activated profiles. We also proved that CD169+ monocytes robustly prevented neutrophil apoptosis. Depletion of CD169+ monocytes/macrophages significantly inhibited inflammation and liver necrosis in acute liver injury, but the spontaneous fibrin resolution after repeated liver injury was impaired. Our results indicate that CD169 defines a subset of inflammation-associated monocyte that correlates with disease development in patients with cirrhosis. This provides a possible therapeutic target for alleviating inflammation and improving survival in cirrhosis.
Conceptualising Sustainability as the Pursuit of Life
Authors: Dahlmann Frederik
Published: February 2024

Complex and urgent challenges including climate change and the significant decline in biodiversity provide a broad agenda for interdisciplinary scholars interested in the implications facing businesses, humanity, and other species. Within this context of sustainability, persistent conflicts between key paradigms create substantial barriers against—but also opportunities for—developing new conceptual approaches and theoretical models to understand and respond to these critical issues. Here, I revisit paradigmatic tensions to assess their impact on research and debate on sustainability, ethics, and business. Drawing on relational ontology and values of nature that recognise humanity’s tight embeddedness within the planetary ecosystem, I examine how conceptualising sustainability as the pursuit of life might generate new insights for research and practice into the wider transformation needed to sustain and restore socioecological systems. The aim here, however, is not to reconcile these paradigmatic tensions but instead use them as a fruitful lens for examining the implications for sustainability, while acknowledging the inherent ethical dilemmas for individuals, organisations, and society.
Combustion Synthesis of Ag Nanoparticles and Their Performance During NaBH4 Hydrolysis
Authors: Abu-Zied Bahaa M. , Ali Tarek T. , Adly Lamia
Published: February 2024

Due to their tremendous industrial, environmental, and biological applications, research focusing on the synthesis and applications of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) has attracted increased interest from researchers over the past two decades. Their structural as well as textural properties can be easily tuned depending on the synthesis protocol utilized. Combustion synthesis has received increased attention as a one-pot route for the synthesis of a wide spectrum of nanomaterials. In this study, we present the results of synthesizing Ag NPs employing urea as a combustion fuel. The effect of the temperature of calcination on the formation and structural features of Ag NPs has been checked over the 400–700 °C temperature range. The characterization of the synthesized Ag NPs has been performed using XRD, SEM, TEM, and XPS techniques. It was found that Ag NPs, with a crystallite size of 40 nm, start to form at around 400 °C. Conducting the calcination at the 500–700 °C range results in the persistence of the obtained Ag NPs. Moreover, the obtained nanomaterials are characterized by a membrane-like morphology. The activity performance of the synthesized Ag NPs was examined for the hydrolysis of sodium borohydride (NaBH4) over a temperature range of 35–50 °C. Increasing the calcination temperature has led to a decrease in the activity of the Ag NPs during the NaBH4 hydrolysis.

Graphical Abstract
Effect of eccentric fixation on the steady-state pattern electroretinogram
Authors: Friedel Evelyn B. N. , Haldina Julia , Nickel Kathrin , Bach Michael , Tebartz van Elst Ludger , Heinrich Sven P.
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The steady-state pattern electroretinogram (ssPERG) is used to assess retinal ganglion cell function in a variety of research contexts and diagnostic applications. In certain groups of patients or study participants, stable central fixation of the stimulus is not guaranteed. The present study aimed at assessing the effects of misfixation on the ssPERG response to checkerboard reversal stimuli.

Methods

Using two check sizes (0.8° and 15°), we compared ssPERG responses for several amounts of fixation deviation, ranging from 0° to 19° horizontally and from 0° to 14° diagonally. The stimulus area extended to 15° eccentricity, stimulus reversal rate was 15/s.

Results

Up to around 7° eccentricity, there was no sizable effect of fixation deviation under most conditions. Effects were somewhat larger for nasal than for temporal deviation, in particular for small checks. Diagonal deviation was associated with a response to luminance onset/offset at 7.5 Hz (subharmonic of the reversal rate), most prominently when the interior of a large check was fixated.

Conclusion

Generally, moderate inaccuracies of fixation do not have a sizable effect on ssPERG amplitude. However, with large checks, the luminance response has to be considered.
Overcoming Fragmentation in Motivation Science: Why, When, and How Should We Integrate Theories?
Authors: Pekrun Reinhard
Published: February 2024

Theories in motivation science, and in psychological science more generally, are in a state of fragmentation that impedes development of a robust body of knowledge. Furthermore, fragmentation hinders communication among scientists, with practitioners, and with policymakers and the public. Theoretical integration is needed to overcome this situation. In this commentary, I first provide an overview of the integrative frameworks presented in this collection of articles. Based on this overview, I discuss if and when we should integrate theories. Several non-trivial conditions need to be met for integration, including convergence of phenomena, constructs, and theoretical propositions. Next, I address strategies for integration, including rules for merging constructs and ways to integrate propositions. I also discuss how the generation of integrative frameworks, if not successfully enacted, can paradoxically lead to further proliferation rather than a reduction of theories. In contrast, successful integration reduces redundancy and simplifies the conceptual space used to describe, explain, or predict a set of phenomena. Successful integration may require not only theoretical work but also empirical validation, strategic efforts in the scientific community, and change of institutional policies. In conclusion, I argue that within-discipline integration alone is not sufficient to overcome the current theoretical stagnation in the field. Attention to advances in neighboring disciplines, formalization of models of motivation, and theoretical differentiation to consider the specificity of constructs, populations, and contexts are needed as well.
Nature-based solutions for coastal protection in sheltered and exposed coastal waters: integrated monitoring program for baseline ecological structure and functioning assessment
Authors: Boulenger Arnaud , Lanza-Arroyo Pablo , Langedock Kobus , Semeraro Alexia , Van Hoey Gert
Published: February 2024

Nature-based solutions, such as shellfish reefs, can support natural coastal defence and be a potential solution for climate-resilient shorelines in the future. In the Belgian Part of the North Sea, the “Coastbusters” projects aim to develop nature-based coastal protection by favouring subtidal mussel bed establishment on the seafloor through typical longline aquaculture techniques. Mussel beds are dependent on environmental conditions, and both influence the physical and biogeochemical features in a soft-sediment environment. Therefore, a comprehensive ecological monitoring program is essential to assess the success of future mussel bed development and its influence on the surrounding ecosystem. For establishing a monitoring baseline of the two experimental areas, a combination of conventional benthic assessment methods (grab sampling and granulometry) and non-invasive techniques (sediment profile imaging and transect diving video surveys) were utilised. Although mussel reefs did not yet develop by the time of this study, clear differences in ecological and sedimentological characteristics were found between two experimental areas (sheltered and exposed), subjected to slightly different hydrodynamic conditions. The one sheltered by coastal sandbanks was dominated by fine-muddy sand, higher species richness, biomass, and higher biological activity (burrows, fauna, and biological beds) as observed by all methods in one or another way. Moreover, functional diversity indices revealed a higher partitioning of the total available resources, suggesting more complex ecological processes in the sheltered area. Conversely, the area more exposed to the open sea was dominated by more sandy sediments, and fewer organisms were found. The combination of those different monitoring tools provides an integrated, complementary view, from different perspectives, on the biological, physical and functional characteristics of the study areas.
Evaluating the transition among K-19 students in the context of environmental citizenship
Authors: Oral Hasan Volkan , Eren Özge , Yay A. Suna Erses , Cermik Erkan , Kara Hazal A. , Saygın Hasan
Published: February 2024

This study investigates high school students’ environmental thoughts and behaviors. Two hundred and ninety-six students from Istanbul, Turkey’s Marmara Region’s Hisar School participated in the current study. The higher education institution samples used in this analysis came from earlier studies conducted by the authors. The statistical methods of principal component analysis, independent sample t test, chi-square test, and regression analysis are used to assess the data collected for the present study. The research aims to verify that the given hypothesis holds for every sample. Among the significant findings are high-level environmental attitudes and behaviors together with statistically proven differences between male and female students. Compared to male students, more female students participate in physical and academic environmental consciousness than male students. Students in high school typically focus more on environmental issues. The results showed that environmental concerns have a greater ability to impact behavior connected to the environment than environmental knowledge and attitude and that there is a positive correlation between parents’ income levels and their level of environmentalism.
Behavioural drivers of long-term land leasing adoption: application of an extended theory of planned behaviour
Authors: Adenuga Adewale Henry , Jack Claire , McCarry Ronan
Published: February 2024

Increasing agricultural productivity while also protecting the environment, requires careful stewardship of the most important resource in production – land. Most land in Northern Ireland is controlled via owner occupation and granting access to others is a matter for careful consideration. Proprietorial caution, combined with custom and values attributed to land in the region has resulted in a pattern of tenure dominated by short-term rental agreements called conacre. An insecure, short-term land rental system, such as the conacre may be a disincentive to farmers in their decision-making around investing in land management and development, consequently resulting in reduced farm-level sustainability. In this study, we analysed the psychological and behavioural factors influencing farmers’ intention to take up long-term land leasing in Northern Ireland. To achieve our objective, we employed a mixed-methods approach and statistically analysed our quantitative data using an extended theory of planned behaviour (TPB) approach in a structural equation modelling framework. The results of our analyses showed that attitude, perceived behavioural control, subjective norm and perceived risk were statistically significant determinants of farmers’ intention to adopt long-term land leasing. The study results have important implications for the design of effective policies aimed at encouraging long-term land leasing through behavioural change to ensure sustainable agricultural production and effective land management.
Influence of white-light-emitting diodes on primary visual cortex layer 5 pyramidal neurons (V1L5PNs) and remodeling by blue-light-blocking lenses
Authors: Mattam Susmitha , Thomas R. Huban , Akansha Elizebeth O. , Jathanna Judith S. , Poojary Radhika R. , Sarpangala Shailaja , Jose Judy , Theruveethi Nagarajan
Published: February 2024

Studies have explored the consequences of excessive exposure to white-light-emitting diodes (LEDs) in the retina. Hence, we aimed to assess the implications of such exposure on structural alterations of the visual cortex, learning and memory, and amelioration by blue-light-blocking lenses (BBLs). Eight-week-old Wistar rats (n = 24) were used for the experiment and divided into four groups (n = 6 in each group) as control, white LED light exposure (LE), BBL Crizal Prevencia-1 (CP), and DuraVision Blue-2 (DB). Animals in the exposure group were exposed to white LED directly for 28 days (12:12-h light/dark cycle), whereas animals in the BBL groups were exposed to similar light with BBLs attached to the LEDs. Post-exposure, a Morris water maze was performed for memory retention, followed by structural analysis of layer 5 pyramidal neurons in the visual cortex. We observed a significant difference (P < 0.001) in the functional test on day 1 and day 2 of training in the LE group. Structural analysis of Golgi-Cox-stained visual cortex layer 5 pyramidal neurons showed significant alterations in the apical and basal branching points (p < 0.001) and basal intersection points (p < 0.001) in the LE group. Post hoc analysis revealed significant changes between (p < 0.001) LE and CP and (p < 0.001) CP and DB groups. Constant and cumulative exposure to white LEDs presented with structural and functional alterations in the visual cortex, which are partly remodeled by BBLs.
Co-making the future: crafting tomorrow with insights and perspectives from the China-U.S. young maker competition
Authors: Liu Wei , Fu Zhiyong , Zhu Yancong , Li Yin , Sun Yuanbo , Hong Xinhui , Li Yanru , Liu Min
Published: February 2024

This research paper investigates the intersection of the maker movement and educational innovation, using the China-U.S. Young Maker Competition as a foundational example. It examines how maker education, fueled by hands-on learning and a curiosity-driven approach, can evolve and influence. The study explores the roles and impacts of Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Design-Driven Innovation (DDI), and Cross-Cultural Perspectives (CCP) within maker education. It highlights HCI’s connection of technology with learning, DDI’s focus on user-centered solutions, and the significance of CCP in enhancing cultural collaboration, vital for fostering an innovative and creative future. This paper offers a detailed perspective on the current state and future potential of maker education. It proposes a roadmap for the coming decade, emphasizing collaborative learning and creative endeavors, all set within the engaging environment of the competition.
Multivariate Random Fields Evolving Temporally Over Hyperbolic Spaces
Authors: Malyarenko Anatoliy , Porcu Emilio
Published: February 2024

Gaussian random fields are completely characterised by their mean value and covariance function. Random fields on hyperbolic spaces have been studied to a limited extent only, namely for the case of scalar-valued fields that are not evolving over time. This paper challenges the problem of the second-order characteristics of multivariate (vector-valued) random fields that evolve temporally over hyperbolic spaces. Specifically, we characterise the continuous space–time covariance functions that are isotropic (radially symmetric) over space (the hyperbolic space) and stationary over time (the real line). Our finding is the analogue of recent findings that have been shown for the case where the space is either the n-dimensional sphere or more generally a two-point homogeneous space. Our main result can be read as a spectral representation theorem, and we also detail the main result for the subcase of covariance functions having a spectrum that is absolutely continuous with respect to the Lebesgue measure (technical details are reported below).
Challenges in the thermal modeling of highly porous carbon foams
Authors: Fehér A. , Kovács R. , Sudár Á. , Barnaföldi G. G.
Published: February 2024

The heat pulse (flash) experiment is a well-known, widely used method to determine thermal diffusivity. However, for heterogeneous, highly porous materials, neither the measurement nor the evaluation methodologies are straightforward. In the present paper, we focus on two open-cell carbon foam types, differing in their porosity but having the same sample size. Recent experiments showed that a non-Fourier behavior, called ’over-diffusive’ propagation, can be present for such a complex structure. The (continuum) Guyer–Krumhansl equation stands as a promising candidate to model such transient thermal behavior. In order to obtain a reliable evaluation and thus reliable thermal parameters, we utilize a novel, state-of-the-art evaluation procedure developed recently using an analytical solution of the Guyer–Krumhansl equation. Based on our observations, it turned out that the presence of high porosity alone is necessary but not satisfactory for non-Fourier behavior. Additionally, the mentioned non-Fourier effects are porosity-dependent; however, porous samples can also follow the Fourier law on a particular time scale. These data serve as a basis to properly identify the characteristic heat transfer mechanisms and their corresponding time scales, which altogether result in the present non-Fourier behavior. Based on these, we determined the validity region of Fourier’s law in respect of time scales.
High capacity reversible data hiding in radiographic images with optimal bit allocation
Authors: Cavagnino Davide , Druetto Alessandro , Grangetto Marco , Lucenteforte Maurizio
Published: February 2024

This paper extends and improves the performance of a digital reversible watermarking algorithm based on histogram shifting presented in previous works. The considered algorithm exploits the property of image histograms of some kinds of medical images which present many contiguous 0-runs, i.e., a comb structure in the gray level frequencies. In particular, radiographic images exhibit this structure after contrast enhancement during the acquisition process. The previous work suggested performing gray-level histogram shifting according to a local optimization technique. In this paper, we apply combinatorial optimization techniques to entire blocks of contiguous 0-runs using a non-linear objective function transformed to fit a linear optimization algorithm. The obtained results show a meaningful improvement in the payload capacity of the original data-hiding method. A mild Peak Signal-to-Noise Ratio (PSNR) reduction is still acceptable for a qualitative preview of the images, which can be completely restored to their original cover form thanks to the reversibility of the method.
Consensus of multi-agent systems with randomly occurring nonlinearities via uncertain pinning control under switching topologies
Authors: Sui Xin , Yang Yongqing , Wang Fei
Published: February 2024

This paper is focused on the consensus problem of multi-agent systems via uncertain pinning control under switching topologies. The stochastic disturbances and randomly occurring nonlinearities are proposed to describe more realistic systems. The communication topology is modeled by a directed graph and it is divided into two cases, the consensus problem is discussed in these two cases. In addition, there exist some uncertain pinning connections between the followers and leader due to switching topologies, the distributed control protocol is designed to satisfy the follower asymptotically converge to the leader. By constructing suitable multiple Lyapunov functions and utilizing tools of M-matrix theory, some sufficient consensus criteria are deduced to reach this goal. Finally, two examples are given to verify the correctness of the proposed method.
Exploring pre-neolithic environmental dynamics: paleoecology around the Göbekli Tepe based on a multiproxy approach in southeastern Türkiye
Authors: Biltekin Demet , Güzel Abdülkadir , Özcanlı Mehmet , Gökgöz Dila Doğa , Akbıyık Mehmet
Published: February 2024

Background and aims

Paleoecological findings from soil samples recovered near the Göbekli Tepe indicate an environment that sustains a variety of multiproxy analyses, revealing prominent changes in ecological conditions.

Methods

Soil samples were collected in the vicinity of the pre-Neolithic site in the Göbekli Tepe. These sediment samples underwent comprehensive analysis utilizing a multiproxy approach, which included pollen analysis, total organic carbon (TOC) and total inorganic carbon (TOC) measurements, and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) elemental analysis.

Results

Total organic carbon varied significantly in the SK-1 section, with lower levels at the bottom and higher levels at the top. The Ca/Ti ratio, which is indicative of weathering and moisture availability, typically increased in the early Holocene and briefly decreased at approximately 13,354 years BP. The Sr/Ti ratio, related to weathering and erosion processes, also suggests intensified weathering. The presence of deciduous forests and the increase in organic carbon values further support the notion of favorable environmental conditions during the early Holocene. In contrast, the lower levels of SK-1 show lower organic carbon values, lower Ca/Ti and Sr/Ti ratios, and greater abundances of herbaceous plants and steppes, indicating colder and drier conditions at 13,354 years BP.

Conclusion

A significant increase in organic carbon values and the presence of deciduousQuercusin the upper levels of the SK-3 section suggest a period of increased organic productivity and the existence of deciduous forests during the early Holocene at the Göbekli Tepe.
LGBT sexuality and gender minority experiences of minority stress: a comparison of models and theories
Authors: Moorhead Bethany , Lewis Hannah Kate , Arnull Liam
Published: February 2024

Compelling evidence demonstrates that Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual (LGB) populations have a higher prevalence of mental disorders compared to their heterosexual peers (Meyer in Psychol Bull 129(5):674–697, 2003). This has been attributed to minority stressors in the minority stress model. Since this model was established in 2003, there have been significant socio-political events that discriminate against SGM LGBTQ+ individuals. There have also been rival hypotheses, including rejection sensitivity (Feinstein in Arch Sex Behav 49(7):2247–2258, 2020) and ‘misperceiving of neutral events’ (Bailey in Arch Sex Behav 49(7):2265–2268, 2019). Examine SGM perspectives and investigate how well they align with Meyers model (2003). 16 qualitative studies capturing SGM minority stress experiences were extracted from scientific databases and, thematically analysed deductively using Meyer’s minority stress model, in addition to generating original subthemes. This systematic review thematically analysed 16 eligible studies, which generated 6 superordinate themes (Discrimination, Lack of representation, Navigation, Harassment, Depersonalization and Mental Health Outcomes) and 18 sub-themes. These themes were then situated in categories from Meyer’s Minority Stress Model (2003) (Circumstances, Minority Status, Distal stressors, Proximal stressors, and Mental health outcomes). SGM-specific stress experiences integrated into the Minority Stress Model (circumstances, navigation, distal, proximal, and mental health outcomes). The collected data elaborated the model with sub-themes such as discrimination, lack of representation, vigilance, depression, body image and positive coping in sum, this study offers support for and updates Meyer’s minority stress model whilst rejecting competing theories (Bailey 2019; Feinstein 2019).
Gaining a deeper understanding of the deep cloze reading comprehension test: examining potential contributors and consequences
Authors: Bråten Ivar , Haverkamp Ymkje E. , Anmarkrud Øistein
Published: February 2024

The deep cloze test was developed by Jensen and Elbro (Read Writ Interdiscip J 35(5):1221–1237, 2022. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11145-021-10230-w) to assess reading comprehension at the level of global situational understanding. In two independent studies, we examined potential contributors to students’ scores on the deep cloze reading comprehension test, as well as the predictability of students’ scores on this measure for their course achievement and integrated text understanding measured with an open-ended written comprehension assessment. Results showed that students’ language background, word recognition skills, and working memory resources explained unique portions of the variance in students’ scores on the deep cloze reading comprehension test. Further, scores on this test were positively correlated with students’ course achievement and uniquely predicted their integrated text understanding when language background, working memory, and prior topic knowledge were controlled for. Taken together, our findings support an interpretation of the deep cloze reading comprehension test as an effective and efficient measure of situation level understanding that draws on language skills, word level processes, and working memory resources and also can be used to predict students’ performance on important criterial tasks requiring deeper level understanding.
Is there something of divinity regarding Kant’s account of reason?
Authors: Jackson Morgan Keith
Published: February 2024

This article undertakes a crucial examination of Kant’s depiction of the interconnectedness between human reason and the divine. The argument posits that Kant conceptualizes reason as inherently founded on a divine basis. The primary objective of this article is not to delve into whether Kant endorses or dismisses specific Christian doctrines, or if his portrayal of reason aligns with a particular strand of Christian thought. Instead, the aim is to chart an interpretive middle path – one that embraces the profound philosophical underpinnings embedded in Kant’s rationalist legacy while recognizing the inherent limitations he imposes on human reason. The conclusion drawn is that Kant’s account of reason tends towards the divine, though the precise nature of this interconnectedness remains shrouded in mystery.
Structuralism in differential equations
Authors: McLarty Colin
Published: February 2024

Structuralism in philosophy of mathematics has largely focused on arithmetic, algebra, and basic analysis. Some have doubted whether distinctively structural working methods have any impact in other fields such as differential equations. We show narrowly construed structuralism as offered by Benacerraf has no practical role in differential equations. But Dedekind’s approach to the continuum already did not fit that narrow sense, and little of mathematics today does. We draw on one calculus textbook, one celebrated analysis textbook, and a monograph on the Navier–Stokes equation to show structural methods like Dedekind’s have long been central to differential equations, and have philosophically respectable ontology and epistemology.
Excess secondary sludge reuse by H2O2 thermal dehydration
Authors: Udaondo Ana , Montes Vicente , Gimeno Olga , Rivas Francisco Javier
Published: February 2024

The excess of activated sludge generated in municipal wastewater treatment plants constitutes one of the challenging problems facing modern society. The high-water content of this waste makes difficult the transport, disposal, and management of these solids. In this work, activated sludge excess from a secondary clarifier has been dehydrated by means of a combination of temperature and hydrogen peroxide treatment. Three main operating variables have been considered to affect sludge dewaterability and filterability. Temperature (120–180 °C), hydrogen peroxide dose (0.01–0.03 M), and treatment time (20–60 min) influence have been assessed by completing a 15-run Box Behnken experimental design. Different output variables (water content, resistance to filtration, sedimentation volumetric index, extracellular polymeric substances, etc.) have been monitored. Generally, temperature seems to be the most influencing parameter to obtain a dehydrated sludge with acceptable management/disposal characteristics (sludge volume reduction and filterability). In line with the concept of circular economy, an attempt has been conducted to obtain a sustainable biosorbent from the dehydrated sludge generated in the previous stage. Optimum conditions of carbonization and activation revealed that the solid obtained at 400 °C by using ammonium nitrate as activation agent was the most efficient absorbent to eliminate some model compounds from water (namely, phenol, ofloxacin, and diuron); however, a clear improvement margin in the synthesis is foreseen.
A strategic sustainability model for global luxury companies in the management of CO2 emissions
Authors: Rangel-Pérez Celia , López Belen , Fernández Manuel
Published: February 2024

Luxury brands are at the forefront of sustainability efforts and carbon emission reductions to fight climate change. The goal of this paper is to analyze such climate change challenges in terms of cost efforts within large luxury conglomerates. In doing so, financial metrics have been gathered for the top 100 companies in the luxury sector and compared against CO2 emissions metrics with regressive methods. This enables the study of relationships between sustainability and finance to explore if sustainability is expensive and if sustainability is explained by costs, sales, taxes, or investment. Such works allow the setting of conclusions on financial and managerial decisions and, moreover, set a new framework of analysis based on financial variables and the positive or negative impact on CO2 emissions, such as which financial variables generate more CO2 emissions (luxury sales, capital investment and financial cost) and which help to reduce such emissions (cost of goods sold, general expenses and taxes).
Blended Copper and Nano-Silver Screen-Printed Circuits on FTO-Coated Glass
Authors: Abbas Bahaa , Jewell Eifion , Searle Justin
Published: February 2024

Using a mixture of micro-copper and nano-silver in the production of screen-printed circuits has the potential to reduce material costs and cost variability. The fundamental premise of this study involved dispersing silver nanoparticles among the larger copper microparticles at selected ratios and subsequently sintering in order to establish their resultant electrical and physical performance. Commercial materials were mixed, printed, and sintered at two thermal regimes on fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO)-coated glass substrate. The inclusion of 25% silver provided an appreciable reduction in electrical resistance from 4.21 Ω to 0.93 Ω, with further silver additions having less impact. The thermal regime used for sintering had a secondary impact on the final electrical performance. The addition of silver reduced the adhesion to the FTO substrate, with reduced film integrity. The results show that blending inks offers the advantage of enhancing material conductivity while simultaneously reducing costs, making it a compelling area for exploration and advancement in the field of electronics manufacturing.
Quantitative Nondestructive Evaluation of Cold Spray Manufactured Aluminum Alloy 6061 and Copper Samples
Authors: Indu Kumar Kishore Kumar , Patel Mann Baijukumar , Boese Samuel , Gouldstone Andrew , Champagne Victor K. , Özdemir Ozan Ç.
Published: February 2024

Cold spray (CS) is a solid-state process for depositing thick layers of material via the successive high-velocity impact of powder particles onto a solid surface, which leads to high rates of deformation, interparticle bonding, and coating build-up. Although CS is finding commercial utilization in non-load-bearing repair and coating applications, clear nondestructive characterization procedures are necessary to realize its potential in load-bearing structural applications. In this study, the viability of electrical conductivity and through thickness ultrasound wave velocity measurement methods was studied to serve as a means for nondestructive quantitative measurement for quality control in CS and potentially other additive manufacturing (AM) methods. Eddy current, ultrasound, porosity, hardness, and uniaxial tensile strength tests were conducted on CS deposited layers of aluminum alloy 6061 and copper on aluminum alloy 6061 and commercially pure copper substrates, respectively. CS gas dynamic parameters were intentionally and systematically varied to result in corresponding discrete differences in mechanical properties of deposits. Ultrasound measurements of longitudinal wave velocity and eddy current electrical conductivity measurements showed good correlation with process conditions, microstructural characterization results, and destructive mechanical tests (hardness, tensile). The results of this work show that ultrasound wave velocity and electrical conductivity correlate well with increased particle impact velocity in CS deposited aluminum and copper blocks, which evidently show an incremental decrease in porosity, increase in hardness, and increase in tensile strength. The outlined ultrasound and eddy current nondestructive testing methods present effective means for quantitative assessment of cold spray deposited structures while intact with the substrate.
A Geomedical Survey: Is There an Association Between Climatic Conditions and Leishmania Species Distribution in Iran During the Years 1999–2021?
Authors: Navi Zahra , Salahi-Moghaddam Abdolreza , Habibi-Nokhandan Majid , Mohebali Mehdi , Hajjaran Homa , Fuentes Màrius V.
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Iran is among the high-risk leishmaniasis regions in the world. WHO recommends the use of GIS as an ideal tool for healthcare authorities to predict the evolution of a disease, delimit the risk of outbreaks and identify critical areas. The aim of this research is to find the association between the main species of Leishmania (L. major, L. tropica, L. infantum) dispersion and climatic variables in Iran.

Methods

All molecular-based reports of leishmaniasis from Iran between 1999 and 2021 were gathered from reliable medical sources. Meteorological data (air and soil temperatures, annual rainfall and humidity) of the country along the study period were obtained from the Iranian Climatological Research Centre. The data concerning species distribution and climatic conditions during this period were moved to a base-map through raster layers using ArcGIS 10.4.1 software. The relationship between parasitological and climatic models was examined using ANOVA.

Results

High risk area maps, based on the cut-off thresholds, were generated for Leishmania major, L. tropica and L. infantum. According to the molecular-based reports, the L. major distribution was significantly related to all climatic variables, while L. tropica was merely related to rainfall and humidity, and the L. infantum distribution was significantly associated with rainfall, soil and air temperatures.

Conclusion

The association between climatic conditions and Leishmania species distribution in Iran has been confirmed. Consequently, both, the relationship between climatic conditions and the geographical distribution of Leishmania species, and the use of GIS to better understand the spatial epidemiology of leishmaniasis, have been reaffirmed.
Testing covariance structures belonging to a quadratic subspace under a doubly multivariate model
Authors: Filipiak Katarzyna , John Mateusz , Liang Yuli
Published: February 2024

A hypothesis related to the block structure of a covariance matrix under the doubly multivariate normal model is studied. It is assumed that the block structure of the covariance matrix belongs to a quadratic subspace, and under the null hypothesis, each block of the covariance matrix also has a structure belonging to some quadratic subspace. The Rao score and the likelihood ratio test statistics are derived, and the exact distribution of the likelihood ratio test is determined. Simulation studies show the advantage of the Rao score test over the likelihood ratio test in terms of speed of convergence to the limiting chi-square distribution, while both proposed tests are competitive in terms of their power. The results are applied to both simulated and real-life example data.
Biological and physico-chemical properties of the soil in an acidified environment influenced by previous mining activities at the Šobov locality (SLOVAKIA)
Authors: Nosalj Sanja , Hrabovský Andrej , Labuda Roman , Kollár Jozef , Šimonovičová Alexandra
Published: February 2024

More than 20 years after remedial measures were carried out, six plots (Š1 – Š6) at the Šobov locality were examined in more detail. From a pedological viewpoint, the physico-chemical differences of the soils in these areas are not the result of pedogenesis. This is the effect of extremely acidic mineralised solutions that have leaked from or are still leaking from the heap at the site. The plant community here is most often poor to weakly developed with acidophilic vegetation (Š1, Š2, Š5), without vegetation (Š4) or with dense species-rich vegetation (Š3, Š6). Saprotrophic microscopic fungi of the phylum Zygomycota are notably suppressed and their diversity is low. Species of the genera Absidia and Zygorhynchus were found most often. In contrast, the diversity of the phylum Ascomycota is notably high. The genera Penicillium (35 species), Aspergillus (7 species) and Trichoderma (5 species) are dominantly represented. Species of microscopic filamentous fungi in every soil sample that did not occur in the other samples were also recorded; i.e. they form the specific soil mycobiome of the given location. From the 15 types of keratinophilic fungi, the most commonly occurring were Purpureocillium lilacinum and Keithomyces carneus. Keratinolytic properties were recorded only in the species Trichophyton ajelloi. Soil reaction is the most important ecological factor that influences the biological properties of soils.
Set in Stone: Human–Horse Relations as Embodied in Shaped Stone Balls
Authors: Assaf Ella
Published: February 2024

The enigmatic presence of uniquely shaped, spherical stones attracted the attention of archaeologists at Oldowan sites in Africa as early as a century ago. Shaped stone balls (SSBs) are among the oldest implements used by humans. For nearly 2 million years, they accompanied ancient humans as a stable cultural anchor throughout the Lower Paleolithic period and beyond. These tools reflect techno-cultural processes and Lower Paleolithic human perceptions of their relationships with the non-human animal world. Nonetheless, the few techno-functional studies focussing on these items have only scraped the surface of their research potential. In this paper, I will explore evidence suggesting that SSBs embody the relations of ancient humans with a particular animal—the horse—and propose that they might have played an active role in the social and cosmological realms of Lower Paleolithic (LP) ontology. Several previous studies indicate that they were shaped through a meticulous process. Traces of use and organic residues of marrow/fat associate them with bone-breaking activities. Furthermore, a comprehensive contextual analysis points to a correlation, observed at various sites, between SSBs and large herbivores, specifically horses. This correlation supports the premise that early humans relied on SSBs to extract calories from horses and points to a possible link between the simultaneous disappearance of large horses and SSBs from the Levantine landscape at the end of the LP. The role of horses in Paleolithic diet and culture is well reflected in the archaeological record. Following recent anthropological views, I advocate that SSBs played an important role in the human–horse alignment, embodying within them the world of perceptions and relationships of ancient humans with this non-human animal who shared their habitat.
Examining the Structural Inequities in the Quality of Nationwide Drinking Water Data in Aotearoa New Zealand: A Geospatial Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Hobbs M. , Puente-Sierra M. , Marek L. , Broadbent J. M. , Chambers T.
Published: February 2024

High-quality geospatial data are required to examine how the places in which we reside, work and play determine health outcomes; however, seldom is the quality of nationwide geospatial data reported. We examined the quality of geospatial data of public drinking water distribution zones (WDZ) across all territorial authorities in Aotearoa New Zealand to investigate structural inequities in data quality. In our national dataset of WDZ, we identified several differences in the quality of geospatial information that are associated with the population, area-level deprivation, ethnicity and most of all urban/rural classification. Our research highlights structural data inequity, which may undermine efforts to reduce health inequity.