bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experiencing Intimate Relationships and Sexuality: A Qualitative Study with Autistic Adolescents and Adults
Authors: Beato Ana , Sarmento Mariana Reis , Correia Mariana
Published: March 2024

Romance, intimacy, and sexuality are crucial elements of human well-being. However, they have gone unnoticed and insufficiently explored among individuals with neurodevelopmental difficulties, namely among autistic people. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disability characterized by repetitive and stereotypical behavior, interests, or activities and by difficulties in interpersonal relationships and verbal and non-verbal communication. Preliminary studies reveal that, although most wish to relate intimately with other people, several autistic individuals tend to isolate themselves and engage in individual sexual behaviors. Despite the importance of this topic, few studies have looked at it in depth nor included the unique perceptions of autistic people about topics such as romantic and intimate relationships or sexuality. To fill that gap, we have designed a qualitative, cross-sectional and exploratory study that sought to explore the perceptions and experiences of autistic people about romance, intimacy and sexuality. Twenty-two autistic teenagers and adults (63.6% female) aged between 15 and 45 years, consented to participate in individual in-depth, semi-structured interviews. The transcripts were examined with thematic analysis. The results highlight three main themes: Intimate relationships, sexuality, and sex education. The negative impact of autistic characteristics in sexuality and sexuality was highlighted by the participants. Understanding the difficulties and the needs of autistic people will increase awareness regarding this topic and improve assessment and interventions related to romantic relationships and sexuality. Furthermore, our study sheds light on the importance of developing tailored and adequate sex education programs and tools for the difficulties presented by autistic youth.
Enhanced benzene vapor adsorption through microwave-assisted fabrication of activated carbon from peanut shells using ZnCl2 as an activating agent
Authors: Kutluay Sinan , Şahin Ömer , Baytar Orhan
Published: March 2024

Herein, microwave-assisted activated carbon (MW-AC) was fabricated from peanut shells using a ZnCl2 activator and utilized for the first time to eliminate benzene vapor as a volatile organic compound (VOC). During the MW-AC production process, which involved two steps—microwave treatment and muffle furnace heating—we investigated the effects of various factors and achieved the highest iodine number of 1250 mg/g. This was achieved under optimal operating conditions, which included a 100% impregnation ratio, CO2 as the gas in the microwave environment, a microwave power set at 500 W, a microwave duration of 10 min, an activation temperature of 500 °C and an activation time of 45 min. The structural and morphological properties of the optimized MW-AC were assessed through SEM, FTIR, and BET analysis. The dynamic adsorption process of benzene on the optimized MW-AC adsorbent, which has a significant BET surface area of 1204.90 m2/g, was designed using the Box-Behnken approach within the response surface methodology. Under optimal experimental conditions, including a contact duration of 80 min, an inlet concentration of 18 ppm, and a temperature of 26 °C, the maximum adsorption capacity reached was 568.34 mg/g. The experimental data are better described by the pseudo-second-order kinetic model, while it is concluded that the equilibrium data are better described by the Langmuir isotherm model. MW-AC exhibited a reuse efficiency of 86.54% for benzene vapor after five consecutive recycling processes. The motivation of the study highlights the high adsorption capacity and superior reuse efficiency of MW-AC adsorbent with high BET surface area against benzene pollutant. According to our results, the developed MW-AC presents itself as a promising adsorbent candidate for the treatment of VOCs in various industrial applications.
Equilibrium population dynamics of site-dependent species
Authors: Law Peter R.
Published: March 2024

Adults of site-dependent species require a discrete structure, e.g., a cavity, for breeding, which they are unable to construct and must locate and occupy. The environment provides only a limited number of such sites, which may vary in overall quality due to their environmental context. Heterogeneity of site quality can result in population equilibrium, often construed as source-sink dynamics. Rodenhouse et al. (Ecology 78:2025-2042, 1997) proposed a mechanism of site-dependent equilibrium that they claimed was more general than source-sink dynamics. After defining notions of source and sink, I use explicit dynamical models for a site-dependent population, based on the life history of golden eagles (Aquila chrysaetos), with two levels of site quality, to investigate the existence of population equilibria under several scenarios: source-source, source-sink, and source-floater. The life history traits I employ are not overly restrictive and serve the purpose only of providing models explicit enough to be treated analytically. I use a generalized notion of “golden eagle” since site dependency is often discussed in the literature on raptors, and I have exploited details from Hunt et al. (PLoS ONE 12:e0172232, 2017) for numerical simulations. The crucial features of the modeling, however, are those of site dependency. The modeling emphasizes that equilibrium results from the limited supply of source sites and that vital rates averaged across site qualities do not provide a compelling explanation of equilibria, contra Rodenhouse et al. Counterintuitively, equilibria are theoretically possible, even when both site qualities are intrinsically source sites.
Challenges and Risk Factors of Early Leaving from IVET: Perceptions of Students and Schools´ Staff
Authors: Bentsalo Inna , Loogma Krista , Ümarik Meril , Väljataga Terje
Published: March 2024

A concern across many vocational education systems is the high dropout rate from their programs. This problem is likely to be exacerbated at time of low unemployment rates when employers are less demanding about the certification of skills at the time of employment. This qualitative study examines the factors associated with students leaving early from Initial Vocational Education and Training (IVET) institutions in Estonia. The study analyses the challenges and potential risk factors of IVET early leaving from both the students and staff members points of view. The research participants were 20 Estonian IVET students and 12 staff members from various vocational schools. The study highlights the complex interplay of students’ challenges and emphasises the importance of addressing them to promote retention and success in vocational education and training programmes. The study employs the Self-Determination Theory, more specifically, the conceptual frame of basic psychological needs to interpret the data. The results of the research indicate that students at risk are mainly shaped by their primary school experience prior to vocational school, with teachers and peers as the main influencers.
The Covariance Metric in the Blaschke Locus
Authors: Dai Xian , Eptaminitakis Nikolas
Published: March 2024

We prove that the Blaschke locus has the structure of a finite dimensional smooth manifold away from the Teichmüller space and study its Riemannian manifold structure with respect to the covariance metric introduced by Guillarmou, Knieper and Lefeuvre in Guillarmou et al. in (Ergod Theory Dyn Syst 43:974–1022, 2021). We also identify some families of geodesics in the Blaschke locus arising from Hitchin representations for orbifolds and show that they have infinite length with respect to the covariance metric.
Killing Fields on Compact Pseudo-Kähler Manifolds
Authors: Derdzinski Andrzej , Terek Ivo
Published: March 2024

We show that a Killing field on a compact pseudo-Kähler ddbar manifold is necessarily (real) holomorphic. Our argument works without the ddbar assumption in real dimension four. The claim about holomorphicity of Killing fields on compact pseudo-Kähler manifolds appears in a 2012 paper by Yamada, and in an appendix we provide a detailed explanation of why we believe that Yamada’s argument is incomplete.
Gamma-delta T-cell acute lymphoblastic lymphoma/leukemia: a report of a rare entity
Authors: George Giby V. , Kajstura Maggie , Evans Andrew G. , Syposs Chauncey R.
Published: March 2024

Gamma delta (γδ) T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma (T-ALL) is a rare, aggressive subtype of T-lymphoid leukemia that accounts for only 9–12% of all T-ALL cases. Herein, we report the case of an 8-year-old boy who presented with facial swelling, shortness of breath, and progressive cervical and axillary lymphadenopathy. Pathological examination, flow cytometry (Navios, Beckman Coulter ClearLLab 10C 10-color T-cell panel [containing FITC-labeled TCR γδ antibody]), chromosomal analysis, interphase FISH, and targeted DNA-based NGS (34-gene Illumina TruSeq Myeloid Panel) were performed. Flow cytometry evaluation of a lymph node biopsy specimen revealed an immature T-cell population positive for CD4, CD3, CD2 (subset positive), CD5, CD7, CD38, CD1a, cytoplasmic terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (cyto-TdT), CD30 (subset positive), and T-cell receptor (TCR) gamma delta (γδ). Microscopic examination of an enlarged lymph node and bone marrow showed involvement by a dense, diffuse, neoplastic infiltrate. Interphase FISH revealed a copy number loss of PDGFRB (5q32) in 90.5% of interphase nuclei. Targeted DNA-based NGS detected a tier II oncogenic variant in NOTCH1 (c.7375C > T, p.Gln2459Ter) at a VAF of 21%. This case of γδ T-ALL highlights a rare entity and adds to the literature, albeit scant, which may aid in better recognition and classification.
Calcium polystyrene sulfonate-induced rectal ulcer causing E. coli native-valve infective endocarditis
Authors: Fukushima Shinnosuke , Hagiya Hideharu , Honda Hiroyuki , Ishida Tomoharu , Shoji Ryohei , Hasegawa Kou , Otsuka Fumio
Published: March 2024

Escherichia coli-associated native-valve infective endocarditis is a rare disease that affects elderly patients with underlying risk factors such as diabetes mellitus, malignancy, and renal failure. Long-term use of calcium polystyrene sulfonate is a potential risk factor for gastrointestinal mucosal damage or even colorectal ulcers. Herein, we describe a fatal case of a 66-year-old Japanese man with diabetes mellitus and renal failure who was prescribed calcium polystyrene sulfonate (CPS) for 11 years and developed a CPS-induced rectal ulcer, leading to E. coli native-valve infective endocarditis. The patient was admitted to our hospital due to acute-onset impaired consciousness. As a result of the systemic investigation, he was diagnosed with E. coli bacteremia accompanied by multiple cerebral infarctions and an acute hemorrhagic rectal ulcer. Transesophageal echocardiography revealed a 20-mm vegetative structure on the mitral valve, resulting in a final diagnosis of E. coli-associated infective endocarditis. After rectal resection, mitral valve replacement surgery was performed; however, the patient died shortly after surgery. Pathological findings of the resected rectum showed deposition of a basophilic crystalline material suggesting the presence of CPS. Our case highlights the potential risk of colorectal ulcers in a long-term CPS user, which can trigger bacterial translocation and endocarditis as fatal complications.
Sediment and phosphorus transport during flood events in a Mediterranean temporary river
Authors: Garnier Monica , Pappagallo Giuseppe , Holman Ian Paul
Published: March 2024

Flood events, whose number and intensity are predicted to increase in the Mediterranean region, are difficult to monitor. This causes the number of observations of suspended sediment and total phosphorus concentration (|SS| and |TP|, respectively) during their occurrence to be still scarce. Non-perennial or temporary water bodies, which react more promptly to rainfall events, represent ideal natural observatories. In this study, observations of streamflow, |SS| and |TP|, carried out during some flood events, in the Celone river basin, a temporary river located in south-eastern Italy, are presented. The research examined the correlations between flows, concentrations and loads of sediment and phosphorus and investigated factors that influence sediment and phosphorous dynamics in the river basin. The results show no relationship between the time of the year and the precipitation quantity of each event. The high coefficient of determination of the |SS|–|TP| correlations (R2 = 0.67 on average) proves the importance of soil erosive processes in the delivery of phosphorus to the river. More than 73% of the total suspended sediment load and 83% of total phosphorus load in the period 2010–2011 were transported during the 11 monitored events. In addition to the discharge, |SS| and |TP| also depend on numerous other factors related to land management, such as soil cover and fertilizations. The study, thanks to the improved understanding of the mechanisms governing sediment and phosphorus losses, represents a useful contribution for river basin authorities who have to draw up management plans aimed at preventing eutrophication phenomena and soil fertility reduction.
Characterizing interregional differences in the rheological properties and composition of rat small intestinal mucus
Authors: Klitgaard Mette , Jacobsen Jette , Kristensen Maja Nørgaard , Berthelsen Ragna , Müllertz Anette
Published: March 2024

The mucus layer in the small intestine is generally regarded as a barrier to drug absorption. However, the mucus layer is a complex system, and presently, only a few studies have been conducted to elucidate its physicochemical properties. The current study hypothesizes that the mucus layer contains solubility-enhancing surfactants and thus might aid the oral absorption of poorly water-soluble drugs. Mucus was sampled from sections of the small intestine of fasted rats to analyze the rheological properties and determine the mucus pH and concentrations of proteins and endogenous surfactants, i.e., bile salts, polar lipids, and neutral lipids. The mucus layer in the two proximal sections of the small intestine exhibited different rheological properties such as higher zero-shear viscosity and lower loss tangent and higher protein concentrations compared to all subsequent sections of the small intestine. The pH of the mucus layer was stable at ~ 6.5 throughout most of the small intestine, but increased to 7.5 in the ileum. The bile salt concentrations increased from the duodenum (16.0 ± 2.2 mM) until the mid jejunum (55.1 ± 9.5 mM), whereas the concentrations of polar lipids and neutral lipids decreased from the duodenum (17.4 ± 2.2 mM and 37.8 ± 1.6 mM, respectively) until the ileum (4.8 ± 0.4 mM and 10.7 ± 1.1 mM, respectively). In conclusion, the mucus layer of the rat small intestine contains endogenous surfactants at levels that might benefit solubilization and absorption of orally administered poorly water-soluble drugs.

Graphical Abstract
Exercise-Regulated Mitochondrial and Nuclear Signalling Networks in Skeletal Muscle
Authors: Reisman Elizabeth G. , Hawley John A. , Hoffman Nolan J.
Published: March 2024

Exercise perturbs energy homeostasis in skeletal muscle and engages integrated cellular signalling networks to help meet the contraction-induced increases in skeletal muscle energy and oxygen demand. Investigating exercise-associated perturbations in skeletal muscle signalling networks has uncovered novel mechanisms by which exercise stimulates skeletal muscle mitochondrial biogenesis and promotes whole-body health and fitness. While acute exercise regulates a complex network of protein post-translational modifications (e.g. phosphorylation) in skeletal muscle, previous investigations of exercise signalling in human and rodent skeletal muscle have primarily focused on a select group of exercise-regulated protein kinases [i.e. 5ʹ adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK), protein kinase A (PKA), Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase (CaMK) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)] and only a small subset of their respective protein substrates. Recently, global mass spectrometry-based phosphoproteomic approaches have helped unravel the extensive complexity and interconnection of exercise signalling pathways and kinases beyond this select group and phosphorylation and/or translocation of exercise-regulated mitochondrial and nuclear protein substrates. This review provides an overview of recent advances in our understanding of the molecular events associated with acute endurance exercise-regulated signalling pathways and kinases in skeletal muscle with a focus on phosphorylation. We critically appraise recent evidence highlighting the involvement of mitochondrial and nuclear protein phosphorylation and/or translocation in skeletal muscle adaptive responses to an acute bout of endurance exercise that ultimately stimulate mitochondrial biogenesis and contribute to exercise’s wider health and fitness benefits.
Thin Monodromy in $$\textrm{O}(5)$$
Authors: Bajpai Jitendra , Nitsche Martin
Published: March 2024

R\'esum\'e

This article studies the orthogonal hypergeometric groups of degree five. We establish the thinness of 12 out of the 19 hypergeometric groups of type O(3, 2) from [4, Table 6]. Some of these examples are associated with Calabi-Yau 4-folds. We also establish the thinness of 9 out of the 17 hypergeometric groups of type O(4, 1) from [13], where the thinness of 7 other cases was already proven. The O(4, 1) type groups were predicted to be all thin and our result leaves just one case open.
Delayed choice experiments: an analysis in forward time
Authors: Waaijer Marijn , Van Neerven Jan
Published: March 2024

In this article, we present a detailed analysis of two famous delayed choice experiments: Wheeler’s classic gedanken-experiment and the delayed quantum eraser. Our analysis shows that the outcomes of both experiments can be fully explained on the basis of the information collected during the experiments using textbook quantum mechanics only. At no point in the argument, information from the future is needed to explain what happens next. In fact, more is true: for both experiments, we show, in a strictly mathematical way, that a modified version in which the time-ordering of the steps is changed to avoid the delayed choice leads to exactly the same final state. In this operational sense, the scenarios are completely equivalent in terms of conclusions that can be drawn from their outcomes.
Neurodiversity-Affirming Applied Behavior Analysis
Authors: Allen Lauren Lestremau , Mellon Leanna S. , Syed Noor , Johnson Joy F. , Bernal Armando J.
Published: March 2024

Individuals within the Autistic and Neurodivergent communities have shared numerous concerns about applied behavior analysis (ABA). These criticisms often relate to the ableism reflected within current practices, which have impeded the dignity and autonomy of many individuals with disabilities served through ABA. Both within the field and outside of the field, there is a growing acknowledgment of the need to listen, reflect, and reconsider approaches to service delivery, which can ultimately benefit service recipients well beyond the Autistic or Neurodivergent communities. ABA is committed to being responsive to consumers, even when the social validity data are unfavorable, and the path forward is unclear. This article will provide an overview of historical and current perspectives regarding disability rights, the Autistic and Neurodiversity advocacy movements, and disability as a form of diversity. Calls to action will be presented with accompanying neurodiversity-affirming actions for behavior analytic practitioners. These calls to action are informed by feedback from the Autistic and Neurodivergent communities as well as other interested parties and are related to (1) client identity and language; (2) dignity, self-determination, choice, and assent; and (3) social validity, which may be acted on through compassionate and affirming approaches.
The Energy Consumption of the Process of Joining Steel Sheets with the Use of Clinching With and Without an Additional Rivet, and Analysis of Sheet Deformation and Mechanical Strength of Joints
Authors: Mucha Jacek , Boda Łukasz , Witkowski Waldemar
Published: March 2024

This paper presents the results of research on the impact of the use of different tools and the shape of the additional rivet, on the geometric quality of the joint, the energy consumption of the forming process, the distortion of the steel samples, and the load capacity of the joints. The tests were carried out for DX51D steel sheets with a thickness of 1.5 [mm] joined by using three different sets of tools. A steel rivet with a hardness of 400HV1 and various shapes was used for the tests. In addition to the full rivet, two types of rivet were used, the first with a through hole and the second with a depth of hole of 3 [mm]. The holes in the rivet had different diameters: 1.0, 1.5, 2.0 and 2.5 [mm]. The influence of changing the shape of the rivet (hole and its diameter) on the change in forming force and energy consumption of the joining process was analyzed. The lowest forming force was achieved for a rivet with a through hole and a hole diameter of 2.5 [mm]. The lowest joint forming force was obtained for the die with movable segments. For joints made with three tool arrangements and a series with a modified rivet, the amount of sheet metal deviation was analyzed. Of the three cases of arrangement of tools used to form the joint, the largest deviation of the sheets occurred at the clinch joint formed with a solid round die. In the case of a series of clinch-rivet joints with a modified rivet, the greatest deviation of the sheets occurred for the rivet with a hole of 1.5 [mm]. Changes in the geometric structure of the joint were also studied, and changes in the surface of the sheets in the joint area were observed. The highest value of the interlock in the joint was obtained when a solid rivet was used in the clinch-riveting technology. The strength of the joints was also identified in the lap shear test and the energy consumption at failure was determined. The use of a rivet increased the maximum load capacity to almost twice that of the clinch joint.

Graphical abstract
Behaviours of honeybees can reduce the probability of deformed wing virus outbreaks in Varroa destructor-infested colonies
Authors: Mugabi Francis , Duffy Kevin J. , van Langevelde Frank
Published: March 2024

Honeybees are important plant pollinators. Unfortunately, there is a growing increase in the loss of honeybee colonies, and this is having a serious economic impact on crop farmers. A major cause of these losses is the parasitic mite Varroadestructor, which is a vector of deformed wing virus (DWV). Some bee species have resistant mechanisms, such as grooming and hygienic behaviours, against Varroa mites. A clear understanding of the effects of these control behaviours on the mites and the viruses they transmit can be important in reducing colony losses. Here, a stochastic model is formulated and analysed to consider the extent to which these control behaviours reduce the probability of an outbreak of DWV in honeybee colonies. Vector and bee-to-bee transmission routes are considered. Using branching process theory, it is shown that without any hygienic or grooming behaviour, a large probability of a DWV outbreak is possible. Also, if bees apply grooming or hygienic behaviour, this can reduce the probability of a virus outbreak, especially in the case of vector transmission, where it can be reduced to zero. Hygienic behaviour is the most significant factor in reducing a DWV outbreak. Thus, bee selection for hygienic behaviour may be important to reduce honeybee colony losses caused by DWV.
On some categories of structured sets
Authors: Chiaselotti Giampiero , Gentile Tommaso , Infusino Federico G.
Published: March 2024

Given an arbitrary set $$\Omega $$
Ω
, we consider the collections $$\textrm{SS}\hspace{0.55542pt}(\Omega )$$

SS

(
Ω
)

, $$\textrm{SR}\hspace{0.55542pt}(\Omega )$$

SR

(
Ω
)

and $$\textrm{SO}\hspace{0.55542pt}(\Omega )$$

SO

(
Ω
)

of all the set systems, the binary set relations and the set operators on $$\Omega $$
Ω
. We introduce the notion of linking map on $$\Omega $$
Ω
as any map whose domain and codomain may be chosen between the above collections. After providing a descriptive overview useful for framing the notion of linking map in a broad non-specialized context, we explain how linking maps occur in a very natural way in two specific results. The first of these results concerns the classic identification between the subfamily $$\textrm{EQ}\hspace{0.55542pt}(\Omega )$$

EQ

(
Ω
)

of all the equivalence relations on $$\Omega $$
Ω
and the subfamily $$\textrm{SP}\hspace{0.55542pt}(\Omega )$$

SP

(
Ω
)

of all the set partitions on $$\Omega $$
Ω
. Starting from it, we introduce a new subfamily $$\textrm{ESO}\hspace{0.55542pt}(\Omega )$$

ESO

(
Ω
)

of closure operators on $$\Omega $$
Ω
and four linking maps whose restrictions to the subfamilies $$\textrm{EQ}\hspace{0.55542pt}(\Omega )$$

EQ

(
Ω
)

, $$\textrm{SP}\hspace{0.55542pt}(\Omega )$$

SP

(
Ω
)

and $$\textrm{ESO}\hspace{0.55542pt}(\Omega )$$

ESO

(
Ω
)

are bijections. The second result concerns the identification between the subfamily $$\textrm{CSO}\hspace{0.55542pt}(\Omega )$$

CSO

(
Ω
)

of all closure set operators on $$\Omega $$
Ω
and the subfamily $$\textrm{CSS}\hspace{0.55542pt}(\Omega )$$

CSS

(
Ω
)

of all closure set systems on $$\Omega $$
Ω
. Starting from it, we introduce a new subfamily $$\textrm{DSR}\hspace{0.55542pt}(\Omega )$$

DSR

(
Ω
)

of binary set relations and four linking maps whose restrictions to the subfamilies $$\textrm{CSO}\hspace{0.55542pt}(\Omega )$$

CSO

(
Ω
)

, $$\textrm{CSS}\hspace{0.55542pt}(\Omega )$$

CSS

(
Ω
)

and $$\textrm{DSR}\hspace{0.55542pt}(\Omega )$$

DSR

(
Ω
)

are again bijections. In an attempt to extend in a natural way the above linking maps to categorical isomorphisms, after fixing a nonnegative integer k, we introduce three categories $$\mathbf{SS^k}$$

SS
k

, $$\mathbf{SR^k}$$

SR
k

and $$\mathbf{SO^k}$$

SO
k

, whose detailed study mainly occupies the first part of the present work. Objects and arrows of these three categories are obtained by means of k-iterations of the powerset functor "Equation missing", and they generalize the notions of set systems, set relations and set operators, respectively. In the second part of the paper, we extend the linking maps previously described at a categorical level in terms of isomorphisms between specific categories of set systems, binary set relations and set operators generalizing the occurring collections introduced before, and also prove numerous other results concerning the main properties of all these categories, such as completeness, cocompleteness and Cartesian closedness.
Case study on the secondary support time and optimization of combined support for a roadway under high in-situ stress
Authors: Geng Weile , Wang Wensong , Huang Gun , Jiang Changbao , Song Zhenlong , Guo Shengli , Dong Ziwen
Published: March 2024

Roadway support can effectively improve the stability of roadway excavation and ensure the safety of underground mining. This study investigates the secondary support time and parameter optimization of combined support for a deep roadway in the stage of resource replacement in the Huize lead–zinc mine in Yunnan Province, China. The aim of this study is to increase the stability and safety of the roadway and decrease the cost of support. Research on support methods and failure modes has shown that under the action of high in-situ stress in deep mining, the surrounding rock of the roadway exhibits obvious rheological phenomena. The change in the radial displacement of the roadway is combined with creep tests of the main exposed surrounding rock to determine the secondary support time. Numerical simulations and orthogonal tests are utilized to optimize the support parameters in terms of the roof subsidence, floor heave displacement, side displacement, and plastic zone by analyzing the effects of the sprayed concrete thickness, bolt length, bolt row spacing, and bolt diameter on the support results. The proposed secondary support time and combined parameters can provide a reference for roadway support in similar strata.
Preparing teachers for critical global and democratic practice: shifting inquiries into the teaching of democracy and global citizenship in teacher education
Authors: Smith Bryan , Neoh Jia Ying , McDowall Ailie , Kim Eun-Ji Amy
Published: March 2024

There is an ongoing and increasingly pressing need to prepare teachers and students for a still globalising world. Such work requires that we contemplate how we are preparing learners to think globally and embody critical practices of citizenship. Much work has been done in this space yet there is little work that focuses on teacher educators and their respective views of global citizenship education, the primary paradigm through which the global context and civic action converge. Recognising the important role that teachers play in this educational process and the evolving nature of the notions of citizenship and democracy, this project focuses on Initial Teacher Education (ITE) to understand how teacher educators envisage their roles in preparing pre-service teachers (PSTs) to teach about democracy in schools. To learn how teacher educators understand global citizenship education as part of their research and teaching, we undertook a small case study wherein we interviewed teacher educators to solicit their views of global citizenship education. Through a presentation of the voices of teacher educators, we argue that there is a pressing need for those working in global citizenship education to consider how to better support teacher educators to navigate what we argue are two consistent themes: (a) a complex and unclear conceptual terrain that teacher educators find themselves navigating and; (b) an ever increasing set of regulatory and institutional hurdles that make enacting critical global citizenship challenging.
Effectiveness of a New-Generation CEW in Human Subjects with a Goal-Directed Task
Authors: Kunz S. N. , Ho J. D. , Dawes D. M. , Knack S. K.
Published: March 2024

Conducted electrical weapons (CEWs) have been used by law enforcement agencies worldwide to control and restrain potentially violent persons. As new generations of these weapons are developed, effectiveness and safety need to be evaluated. The new TASER 10 uses an independently targeted probe scheme with floating polarities so that any two probes can form a connection. This is in contrast to older generation weapons, which used paired probes with fixed take-off angles. The expectation is with up to a maximum of 10 shots and independent targeting; the weapon will have a greater effectiveness. In this pilot study, we used our previously published, standardized methodology for measurement of CEW effectiveness on motivated human volunteers for several objectives: (1) to directly compare the effectiveness of the waveform on human subjects to an older generation weapon (the TASER 7), (2) to more broadly compare it to historical controls, and (3) to look at various probe configurations to determine their comparative effectiveness. The task at hand was to reach a suspended martial arts dummy 12 ft (3.65 m) away while being exposed (under power) to the electrical waveform of the TASER devices in various dart configurations. Several intervention groups were examined. We used video review with our standard methodology to rate goal achievement and limb capture. The results demonstrate that the TASER 10 has similar ability to induce neuromuscular incapacitation as the TASER 7. Additionally, the ability of the TASER 10 to place multiple darts on a specific target area to create the desired probe spread is a technological advantage over previous models. This, together with the floating polarity probes, promise to make the TASER 10 potentially more effective and flexible in the field.
Financing and Business Models for Scaling Up Sustainable Business Networks—Building a Circular Economy
Authors: Muzamwese Tawanda Collins , Heldeweg Michiel A. , Franco-Garcia Laura
Published: March 2024

Transition towards a circular economy (CE) requires collaboration amongst stakeholders. Sustainable Business Networks bring together different organisations to learn and disseminate CE innovations. However, without proper financing models, networks struggle to survive and attain financial independence. In this paper, we explore the different models which are used by African networks to finance their activities. The methodological approach involved nine case studies from three African countries (Zimbabwe, Kenya and South Africa) and selected regional networks. Semi-structured interviews were undertaken with key informants of the networks, and a questionnaire was sent to each network. Content analysis of networks was undertaken, and documents were assessed for each network in order to evaluate network activities under different funding regimes. The main funding models that were observed include membership subscriptions, donor funding, conference fees for network events, consultancy services, crowdfunding and selling knowledge products. The challenge of low payments of subscriptions is common in all countries, and networks devised innovative ways of generating funds such as consultancy fees for services rendered by the network. We conclude that there is still a high level of involvement of donor agencies in financing Sustainable Business Networks. However, this donor-funded approach is failing to steer networks to sustainability beyond projects and programmes which involve networking. Based on the existing literature and the information collected during the interviews, it was possible to recommend a hybrid financing model that is based in two crucial elements, (i) on country specific actors and (ii) on ownership of the network at national level.
Techno-economic analysis and eco-efficiency indicators of a biomass-solar hybrid renewable energy system for João Pinheiro City
Authors: Campos Camila Fonseca Chaves , de Sá Machado Vanessa Aparecida , Soares Laene Oliveira , Boloy Ronney Arismel Mancebo
Published: March 2024

The study aims to rapidly scale up Hybrid Renewable Energy System (HRES) specifically emphasizing bioenergy generation for isolated rural communities. It aims to identify the most profitable and efficient configuration for HRES biomass-solar in João Pinheiro, taking advantage of local eucalyptus production to reduce costs associated with the transport of biomass waste, considering energy, economic and ecological indicators. Eucalyptus waste was chosen as the source of biomass as fuel, the Downdraft gasifier with air as the gasification agent, and monocrystalline silicon technology was selected for photovoltaic modules. Two case study scenarios were proposed based on global efficiency calculations. The techno-economic analysis was applied based on the First Law of Thermodynamics and the Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE) method. Case 2 showed the overall energy efficiency of 17.43% and LCOE 0.034 US$/kWh more suitable for HRES solar-biomass technology. Additionally, the eco-efficiency indicator indicator based on the calculated Net Present Value and ecological efficiency indicator, allowed evaluation of the relationship between added value and the environmental impacts associated with the studied configurations, with case 2 presenting 9.28e−05 kgCO2/US$ as best result. The conclusions show that the techno-economic analysis applied to the HRES syngas-solar, along with the eco-efficiency indicator, presents the viability of decentralized bioenergy supply, particularly in isolated rural communities. This innovative approach encourages sustainable measures to meet energy needs in isolated regions with climatic, environmental and biomass supply conditions like those of João Pinheiro.
Investigating fairness in machine learning-based audio sentiment analysis
Authors: Luitel Sophina , Liu Yang , Anwar Mohd
Published: March 2024

Audio sentiment analysis is a growing area of research, however little attention has been paid to the fairness of machine learning models in this field. Whilst the current literature covers research on machine learning models’ reliability and fairness in various demographic groups, fairness in audio sentiment analysis with respect to gender is still an uninvestigated field. To fill this knowledge gap, we conducted experiments aimed at assessing the fairness of machine learning algorithms concerning gender within the context of audio sentiment analysis. In this research, we used 442 audio files of happiness and sadness—representing equal samples of male and female subjects—and generated spectrograms for each file. Then we performed feature extraction using bag-of-visual-words method followed by building classifiers using Random Forest, Support Vector Machines, and K-nearest Neighbors algorithms. We investigated whether the machine learning models for audio sentiment analysis are fair across female and male genders. We found the need for gender-specific models for audio sentiment analysis instead of a gender-agnostic-model. Our results provided three pieces of evidence to back up our claim that gender-specific models demonstrate bias in terms of overall accuracy equality when tested using audio samples representing the other gender, as well as combination of both genders. Furthermore, gender-agnostic-model performs poorly in comparison to gender-specific models in classifying sentiments of both male and female audio samples. These findings emphasize the importance of employing an appropriate gender-specific model for an audio sentiment analysis task to ensure fairness and accuracy. The best performance is achieved when using a female-model (78% accuracy) and a male-model (74% accuracy), significantly outperforming the 66% accuracy of the gender-agnostic model.
Convex geometries representable with colors, by ellipses on the plane, and impossible by circles
Authors: Adaricheva Kira , Daisy Evan , Garg Ayush , Ma Grace , Olson Michelle , Raanes Cat , Thompson James
Published: March 2024

A convex geometry is a closure system satisfying the anti-exchange property. This paper, following the work of Adaricheva and Bolat (Discrete Math 342(N3):726–746, 2019) and the Polymath REU 2020 team (Convex geometries representable by at most 5 circles on the plane. arXiv:2008.13077), continues to investigate representations of convex geometries on a 5-element base set. It introduces several properties: the opposite property, nested triangle property, area Q property, and separation property, of convex geometries of circles on a plane, preventing this representation for numerous convex geometries on a 5-element base set. It also demonstrates that all 672 convex geometries on a 5-element base set have a representation by ellipses, as given in the appendix for those without a known representation by circles, and introduces a method of expanding representation with circles by defining unary predicates, shown as colors.
Greenhouse gas control in steel manufacturing: inventory, assurance, and strategic reduction review
Authors: Qian Yibo , Li Yuanzhe , Hao Yu , Yu Tong , Hu Haoqian
Published: March 2024

The global steel industry is integral to the development of modern infrastructure, yet it stands as one of the most significant contributors to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions worldwide. This dichotomy brings forth the imperative for an in-depth analysis of GHG inventory practices and the pursuit of sustainable production methods. This mini-review paper addresses the current methodologies for GHG accounting within the steel sector, emphasizing the critical role of accurate and transparent emissions data as the basis for effective climate change mitigation strategies. Evaluating the prevalent carbon-intensive blast furnace-basic oxygen furnace (BF-BOF) production route, this paper contrasts traditional practices with innovative reduction initiatives, particularly those aligned with the emergence of green steel. We delve into the advancements in electric arc furnace (EAF) technology, direct reduced iron (DRI) processes utilizing green hydrogen, and the potential of carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) systems. The analysis extends to a critical examination of the challenges and opportunities these technologies face, including economic viability, scalability, and the readiness of energy infrastructure to support such a transition. Further, this review highlights the significance of verification and validation in reinforcing the credibility of GHG inventories. We scrutinize the materiality of reported emissions in the context of evolving regulatory frameworks and stakeholder expectations, stressing the need for standardized and rigorous assurance practices.

Graphical Abstract
Recent advances in implicit representation-based 3D shape generation
Authors: Sun Jia-Mu , Wu Tong , Gao Lin
Published: March 2024

Various techniques have been developed and introduced to address the pressing need to create three-dimensional (3D) content for advanced applications such as virtual reality and augmented reality. However, the intricate nature of 3D shapes poses a greater challenge to their representation and generation than standard two-dimensional (2D) image data. Different types of representations have been proposed in the literature, including meshes, voxels and implicit functions. Implicit representations have attracted considerable interest from researchers due to the emergence of the radiance field representation, which allows the simultaneous reconstruction of both geometry and appearance. Subsequent work has successfully linked traditional signed distance fields to implicit representations, and more recently the triplane has offered the possibility of generating radiance fields using 2D content generators. Many articles have been published focusing on these particular areas of research. This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of recent studies on implicit representation-based 3D shape generation, classifying these studies based on the representation and generation architecture employed. The attributes of each representation are examined in detail. Potential avenues for future research in this area are also suggested.
The motivation and engagement of student volunteers in volunteerism at the University of Gondar
Authors: Wondimu Habtamu , Admas Getachew
Published: March 2024

This study examines student volunteering at the University of Gondar in Ethiopia, aiming to understand motivation and areas of engagement. Using a mixed research method, data from surveys, in-depth interviews, and key informant interviews were analyzed. The sample included 422 participants selected through probability and non-probability sampling techniques. Quantitative findings reveal that understanding the functions of volunteering motivates students, with a desire for learning experiences and applying their skills being primary motivators. The value function and career enhancement function also contribute to motivation. Survey results indicate that students engage in volunteer activities to enhance their resumes and have a strong belief in the importance of helping others. Notably, 47% of volunteer students focus on social and disability affairs. This study emphasizes the need for careful planning and implementation to encourage student volunteerism and maximize its benefits for all involved parties.
An Old Dilemma in Deep Seabed Mining: Free, Prior, and Informed Consent of Indigenous Peoples in Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction
Authors: Guapizaca Jiménez Erick
Published: March 2024

Free, prior, and informed consent of Indigenous peoples (prior consent) is a principle of international law that requires states to consult and obtain the consent of Indigenous peoples before projects or legislation that may affect their rights are approved. This principle is applicable to land-based mining projects unfolding in lands titled to Indigenous peoples. The extractive industry's extension to the deep sea is imminent, with the promising but controversial prospect of critical minerals essential for the transition to renewable energy. The application of prior consent in deep seabed mining is open to question because these projects are being developed beyond Indigenous peoples’ territories and the impacts on their rights would primarily manifest indirectly. In this essay, I focus on the current plans to approve the new International Seabed Authority (ISA) mining code and to award grant exploration and exploitation contracts to mining companies. I put forward three arguments for why the consent principle applies to deep seabed mining projects. First, despite being developed outside lands titled to Indigenous peoples, mining projects can affect the rights of Indigenous peoples, and therefore, their consent is required. Second, the prior consent principle is applicable to deep seabed mining as a matter of treaty law under the International Labour Organization Indigenous and Tribal Peoples Convention No. 169. Finally, prior consent has the potential to qualify as a rule of international customary law applicable to the “specially affected states” with Indigenous populations under the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
Knowledge-How, Ability, and Linguistic Variance
Authors: Mizumoto Masaharu
Published: March 2024

In this paper, we present results of cross-linguistic studies of Japanese and English knowing how constructions that show radical differences in knowledge-how attributions with large effect sizes. The results suggest that the relevant ability is neither necessary nor sufficient for knowledge-how captured by Japanese constructions. We shall argue that such data will open up a gap between otherwise indistinguishable two conceptions of the very topic of knowledge-how, or the debate between intellectualism and anti-intellectualism, namely a debate about the nature of knowledge-how and a debate about the state captured by “know how”, which we call the knowledge-how interpretation and the state interpretation, respectively. Consequently, the results have not only various possible philosophical implications that have not been considered or discussed in the literature but also provide new topics in the theory of knowledge-how, including the question of which interpretation of the topic is correct itself.
Addictive Design as an Unfair Commercial Practice: The Case of Hyper-Engaging Dark Patterns
Authors: Esposito Fabrizio , Maciel Cathoud Ferreira Thaís
Published: March 2024

This article explains why hyper-engaging dark patterns should be considered unlawful in the European Union even though they are very common online, particularly on content-sharing platforms. A hyper-engaging dark pattern is a digital interface with an addictive design: it makes users spend more time interacting with the service by making use of big data analytics and one or more behavioural trait. Hyper-engaging dark patterns are a form of hypernudge. They exploit the dopamine cycle, reduce users’ autonomy and may have additional detrimental health effects. The Unfair Commercial Practices Directive should be interpreted as prohibiting them either as a form of undue influence or under the general test pursuant to Article 5. Both the Digital Services Act and the Artificial Intelligence Act can play a beneficial but merely complementary role in combatting the diffusion of hyper-engaging dark patterns.