bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural reforms in payment systems to avoid another systemic crisis
Authors: Rossi Sergio
Published: April 2015

This paper shows how a defective architecture for domestic and international payments has made it possible for banks to exploit the endogenous nature of money in a variety of purely speculative financial-market transactions that have led to the eruption of a global systemic crisis. I elaborate on a monetary–structural reform, which should make sure that no bank will any longer be in a position to blur the distinction between money and credit, as this confusion in the banks' books originates various asset bubbles as well as systemically important financial institutions, both of which are major contributors to making the system increasingly fragile as time goes by. This reform of domestic payment systems will not be enough to avoid so-called global imbalances at an international level. I therefore propose, in the spirit of Keynes, a structural reform of the international monetary system, arguing for the emission of a supranational money in settlement of every individual transaction between any two monetary spaces.
Le Yiddishland newyorkais: la mémoire enracinée (The Yiddishland New Yorker: the Ingrained Memory)
Authors: Ousset-Krief Annie
Published: April 2015

More than two million Jews emigrated from Eastern Europe to the USA between 1880 and 1910. Most of them settled in New York City, in the immigrant district of the Lower East Side. As they were uprooted, they tried to recreate a new version of their shtetl, the villages in which most Jews had been forced to reside in Eastern Europe. The Lower East Side thus became their new Yiddishland, their home, where most institutions were modeled after the original ones. Though American Jews had already provided for most necessary institutions like synagogues or schools, what they had established did not match Russian Jews’ habits – besides the fact that Yiddish played a major part in their lives, and was totally ignored by most American Jews. Thus the new immigrants built their own synagogues, schools, and mutual benefit societies. Yiddish culture was vibrant, thanks to Yiddish theatre and the Yiddish press that flourished for decades. Today, though most Jews left the Lower East Side long ago, there remain a few synagogues and shops that have become the symbols of an everlasting Jewish identity, traces of a cherished past, marked by hardship but also the joy of having finally found freedom after centuries of persecution. The Lower East Side has become the place where part of American Jewish history took place, and as such, is a sacred place. Hasia Diner called it the ‘Jewish Plymouth Rock’, underlining the idea that it is the foundation of the American Jewish community, that combines both American and Jewish identities. Jewishness in Europe has been wiped out in many countries, and the descendants of these Russian immigrants can no longer turn to their ancestors’ European ‘home’. It is the Lower East Side that plays the part of the alte heime (the old country), and as such, makes up part of their identity. Memory and identity are deeply rooted in the ‘sacred geography’ of the Lower East Side.
Belleville rouge, Belleville noir, Belleville rose: The Complex Identity of a Parisian quartier
Authors: Stott Carolyn
Published: April 2015

The Parisian quartier of Belleville has long been the subject of scholarly literature and popular culture due to its colourful history and diverse population. Its symbolic boundaries extend beyond the geographical limits imposed by its administrative demarcation. Myths abound as to the extent of its rebellious past, its contemporary image as a melting pot and its prevalence as a décor for the noir genre. In this article a three-tiered categorisation of Belleville is adopted which corresponds to various representations of the suburb in literature, popular culture and from the perspective of its inhabitants. Belleville rouge reflects the quartier’s revolutionary past and the late 20th century struggle associated with its physical metamorphosis. Belleville noir focusses on the quartier’s criminal face, as it is depicted in Parisian film and roman noir and as it exists in reality. Belleville rose highlights the pleasures of the quartier: its cosmopolitan character whose representation verges at times on utopian.    In his Malaussène series (1985-1995), writer and former resident Daniel Pennac portrays Belleville as a unique blend of rouge, noir and rose. This fusion of fairy tale, detective fiction, myth and reality establishes a complex Bellevillois identity distinct from other contemporary representations. The article concludes that it is impossible to associate a single identity with Belleville. The quartier’s contemporary face is inextricably linked to its past, the memory of which is preserved by its inhabitants and by social and literary commentators such as Pennac. In keeping with historian Pierre Nora’s concept of cultural memory, Pennac thus assumes the role of guardian of Belleville’s cultural memory in the face of the quartier’s perpetual evolution.
The Travels of Sir John Mandeville and the Moral Geography of the Medieval World
Authors: Moseley Charles
Published: April 2015

Mandeville’s Travels was, for more than two centuries after its appearance in  c.1356, of enormous influence and popularity in many fields of European culture. This paper discusses first its unprecedented generic eclecticism and its casting into the form of a first person narrative, and then proceeds to explore concepts of space and how a journey narrative may be articulated. Finally, it moves to consideration of the journey and what the traveller reports as having encountered on it as a moral exploration of a world seen as symbol as well as material.
The Catchment Runoff Attenuation Flux Tool, a minimum information requirement nutrient pollution model
Authors: Adams R. , Quinn P. F. , Bowes M. J.
Published: April 2015

Abstract. A model for simulating runoff pathways and water quality fluxes has been developed using the minimum information requirement (MIR) approach. The model, the Catchment Runoff Attenuation Flux Tool (CRAFT), is applicable to mesoscale catchments and focusses primarily on hydrological pathways that mobilise nutrients. Hence CRAFT can be used to investigate the impact of flow pathway management intervention strategies designed to reduce the loads of nutrients into receiving watercourses. The model can help policy makers meet water quality targets and consider methods to obtain "good" ecological status. A case study of the 414 km2 Frome catchment, Dorset, UK, has been described here as an application of CRAFT in order to highlight the above issues at the mesoscale. The model was primarily calibrated on 10-year records of weekly data to reproduce the observed flows and nutrient (nitrate nitrogen – N; phosphorus – P) concentrations. Data from 2 years with sub-daily monitoring at the same site were also analysed. These data highlighted some additional signals in the nutrient flux, particularly of soluble reactive phosphorus, which were not observable in the weekly data. This analysis has prompted the choice of using a daily time step as the minimum information requirement to simulate the processes observed at the mesoscale, including the impact of uncertainty. A management intervention scenario was also run to demonstrate how the model can support catchment managers investigating how reducing the concentrations of N and P in the various flow pathways. This mesoscale modelling tool can help policy makers consider a range of strategies to meet the European Union (EU) water quality targets for this type of catchment.
A MULTIDISCIPLINARY APPROACH TO THE COASTAL PROTECTION OF TWO ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES IN LYBIA
Authors: D'Urso I. , Ombrelli M. , Telaroli P. , Calesso W. , Badin C. , Senigaglia M. , Urrutia C. , Sterponi L.
Published: April 2015

Abstract. The present study is part of the preliminary investigation to design a coastal protection for the archaeological sites of Sabratha and Leptis Magna and the hydraulic re-arrangement of the final stretch of the Wadi Lebda which runs across the archaeological area of Leptis Magna. This study is a part of the project "Safeguarding the Sabratha and Leptis Magna archaeological sites. Preventing flooding of Leptis Magna from the Wadi Lebda", started in 2009 and commissioned by MARCO POLO STORICA LTD – Scotland. The planning of interventions has required an accurate morphological reconstruction of the interested areas. In this regard, given the wide investigation area, the aerial and land survey operations logistic difficulties and tight timeframe, the use of multi-beam technology and satellite images was particularly useful. The Digital Terrain Model has been coupled with detailed bathymetric surveys of the coastal area, undertaken mostly by multi-beam techniques, and by investigations of the ground characteristics, which were integrated in the information system prepared as design support.
STUDY OF A WRECK IN FORESHORE CONTEXT
Authors: Hulot O. , Jaouen M. , Barreau J.-B. , Bernard Y. , Petit Q. , Gaugne R. , Gouranton V.
Published: April 2015

Abstract. We present the study of a wreck, in a foreshore area, in the North of Brittany, France, using two different digitization methods, photogrammetry and laser scanning. The digitization process had to deal with the tide constraints. The 3D data produced using these technologies has been deployed in a large immersive infrastructure dedicated to virtual reality research, in order to propose new practises for archaeologists. The overall purpose of our research project is to define an innovative and efficient methodology for the study and preservation of cultural heritage in an inter-tidal context. In the inter-tidal context, heritage is really fragile and the risk of destruction is real (storms, erosion, coastal development...). The traditional methods are no longer efficient. This paper describes preliminary results, through the joint work of a research institute specialized in underwater archaeology, a research laboratory of archaeology and archaeosciences, and a research laboratory in computer science.
COURSE OUTLINE FOR A SCUBA DIVING SPECIALITY "UNDERWATER SURVEY DIVER"
Authors: Papadimitriou K.
Published: April 2015

Abstract. The purpose of this paper is to outline a course for the training of divers with a special interest in underwater surveying (e.g. surveyors, archaeologists, biologists, geologists, photographers/videographers). This outline presents: i) the Courses' Standards ii) the Learning Objectives for the related Knowledge Development, iii) the Skills that have to be conducted, iv) the Performance Requirements for the students and v) the Open Water Considerations for the Training Dives. It is expected that the resulting course outline will be used as a reference for the training of certified divers who want to become underwater surveyors, providing them basic knowledge and skills to survey adequate data for the detailed documentation of submerged features. Moreover the combination of knowledge (what) and the skills (how) that are presented during the proposed course attempt to define a protocol for the recording of underwater features in favor of mapping and 3D modeling.
A MATLAB GEODETIC SOFTWARE FOR PROCESSING AIRBORNE LIDAR BATHYMETRY DATA
Authors: Pepe M. , Prezioso G.
Published: April 2015

Abstract. The ability to build three-dimensional models through technologies based on satellite navigation systems GNSS and the continuous development of new sensors, as Airborne Laser Scanning Hydrography (ALH), data acquisition methods and 3D multi-resolution representations, have contributed significantly to the digital 3D documentation, mapping, preservation and representation of landscapes and heritage as well as to the growth of research in this fields. However, GNSS systems led to the use of the ellipsoidal height; to transform this height in orthometric is necessary to know a geoid undulation model. The latest and most accurate global geoid undulation model, available worldwide, is EGM2008 which has been publicly released by the U.S. National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) EGM Development Team. Therefore, given the availability and accuracy of this geoid model, we can use it in geomatics applications that require the conversion of heights. Using this model, to correct the elevation of a point does not coincide with any node must interpolate elevation information of adjacent nodes. The purpose of this paper is produce a Matlab® geodetic software for processing airborne LIDAR bathymetry data. In particular we want to focus on the point clouds in ASPRS LAS format and convert the ellipsoidal height in orthometric. The algorithm, valid on the whole globe and operative for all UTM zones, allows the conversion of ellipsoidal heights using the EGM2008 model. Of this model we analyse the slopes which occur, in some critical areas, between the nodes of the undulations grid; we will focus our attention on the marine areas verifying the impact that the slopes have in the calculation of the orthometric height and, consequently, in the accuracy of the in the 3-D point clouds. This experiment will be carried out by analysing a LAS APRS file containing topographic and bathymetric data collected with LIDAR systems along the coasts of Oregon and Washington (USA).
INSTRUMENTS AND METHODOLOGIES FOR THE UNDERWATER TRIDIMENSIONAL DIGITIZATION AND DATA MUSEALIZATION
Authors: Repola L. , Memmolo R. , Signoretti D.
Published: April 2015

Abstract. In the research started within the SINAPSIS project of the Università degli Studi Suor Orsola Benincasa an underwater stereoscopic scanning aimed at surveying of submerged archaeological sites, integrable to standard systems for geomorphological detection of the coast, has been developed. The project involves the construction of hardware consisting of an aluminum frame supporting a pair of GoPro Hero Black Edition cameras and software for the production of point clouds and the initial processing of data. The software has features for stereoscopic vision system calibration, reduction of noise and the of distortion of underwater captured images, searching for corresponding points of stereoscopic images using stereo-matching algorithms (dense and sparse), for points cloud generating and filtering. Only after various calibration and survey tests carried out during the excavations envisaged in the project, the mastery of methods for an efficient acquisition of data has been achieved. The current development of the system has allowed generation of portions of digital models of real submerged scenes. A semi-automatic procedure for global registration of partial models is under development as a useful aid for the study and musealization of sites.
ASPECTS OF BIODETERIORATION OF LAPIDEOUS SUBMERGED ARTEFACTS: 3D METHODOLOGIES APPLICATION
Authors: Ricci S. , Antonelli F. , Sacco Perasso C.
Published: April 2015

Abstract. Submerged stone archaeological artefacts are bioeroded by endolithic microbiota (cyanobacteria, algae and fungi) and macroborers (Porifera, Bivalvia and Sipuncula). Optical microscope and SEM observations permit to analyse the bioerosion traces and to identify bioeroders. Data obtained with these techniques cannot be used to estimate volumes of material bioeroded. This aspect require the need to collect three-dimensional, close-range data from artefact. In this work we illustrate two 3D imaging techniques used to study bioerosion phenomena of underwater Cultural Heritage. In particular Digital Video Microscope permit the elaboration of 3D images, which are widely employed for close-range acquisitions. Underwater Laser Scanner documents the in situ degradation of submerged artefacts. This research aims to sensitize specialist figures in the study 3D offering a starting point for future collaborations that could lead to interesting results.
FILMING UNDERWATER IN 3D RESPECTING STEREOGRAPHIC RULES
Authors: Rinaldi R. , Hordosch H.
Published: April 2015

Abstract. After an experimental phase of many years, 3D filming is now effective and successful. Improvements are still possible, but the film industry achieved memorable success on 3D movie’s box offices due to the overall quality of its products. Special environments such as space ("Gravity") and the underwater realm look perfect to be reproduced in 3D. "Filming in space" was possible in "Gravity" using special effects and computer graphic. The underwater realm is still difficult to be handled. Underwater filming in 3D was not that easy and effective as filming in 2D, since not long ago. After almost 3 years of research, a French, Austrian and Italian team realized a perfect tool to film underwater, in 3D, without any constrains. This allows filmmakers to bring the audience deep inside an environment where they most probably will never have the chance to be.
USING A MULTIBEAM ECHOSOUNDER TO MONITOR AN ARTIFICIAL REEF
Authors: Tassetti A. N. , Malaspina S. , Fabi G.
Published: April 2015

Abstract. Artificial reefs (ARs) have become popular technological interventions in shallow water environments characterized by soft seabed for a wide number of purposes, from fisheries/environmental protection and enhancement to research and tourism. AR deployment has the potential for causing significant hydrographical and biological changes in the receiving environments and, in turn, ARs are strongly affected by the surrounding area in terms of spatial arrangement and structural integrity as well as colonization by benthic communities and finfish. In this context, ARs require a systematic monitoring program that a multibeam echosounder (MBES) can provide better than other sampling methods such as visual dives and ROV inspections that are not quantitative and often influenced by water visibility and diver experience/skills. In this paper, some subsequent MBES surveys of the Senigallia scientifically-planned AR (Northern Adriatic Sea) are presented and state-of-the art data processing and visualization techniques are used to draw post-reef deployment comparisons and quantify the evolution of the reef in terms of spatial arrangement and bulk volume. These multibeam surveys play a leading part in a general multi-year program, started simultaneously with the AR design and deployment and aimed to map how the reef structure quantitatively changes over time, as well as it affects the sea-bottom morphology and the fishery resource. All the data, surveyed over years making use of different sampling methods such as visual and instrumental echosounding observations and catch rate surveys, gain a mechanistic and predictive understanding of how the Senigallia AR functions ecologically and physically across spatial and temporal scales during its design life
A NEW COLOR CORRECTION METHOD FOR UNDERWATER IMAGING
Authors: Bianco G. , Muzzupappa M. , Bruno F. , Garcia R. , Neumann L.
Published: April 2015

Abstract. Recovering correct or at least realistic colors of underwater scenes is a very challenging issue for imaging techniques, since illumination conditions in a refractive and turbid medium as the sea are seriously altered. The need to correct colors of underwater images or videos is an important task required in all image-based applications like 3D imaging, navigation, documentation, etc. Many imaging enhancement methods have been proposed in literature for these purposes. The advantage of these methods is that they do not require the knowledge of the medium physical parameters while some image adjustments can be performed manually (as histogram stretching) or automatically by algorithms based on some criteria as suggested from computational color constancy methods. One of the most popular criterion is based on gray-world hypothesis, which assumes that the average of the captured image should be gray. An interesting application of this assumption is performed in the Ruderman opponent color space lαβ, used in a previous work for hue correction of images captured under colored light sources, which allows to separate the luminance component of the scene from its chromatic components. In this work, we present the first proposal for color correction of underwater images by using lαβ color space. In particular, the chromatic components are changed moving their distributions around the white point (white balancing) and histogram cutoff and stretching of the luminance component is performed to improve image contrast. The experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of this method under gray-world assumption and supposing uniform illumination of the scene. Moreover, due to its low computational cost it is suitable for real-time implementation.
3D DOCUMENTATION OF ARCHEOLOGICAL REMAINS IN THE UNDERWATER PARK OF BAIAE
Authors: Bruno F. , Lagudi A. , Gallo A. , Muzzupappa M. , Davidde Petriaggi B. , Passaro S.
Published: April 2015

Abstract. This paper presents some experimentations, which have been conducted in the submerged archeological Park of Baiae, aimed to identify the problems related to the underwater 3D documentation process. The first test has been addressed to verify if a dense stereo mapping technique, usually employed in terrestrial and aerial applications, might be employed in critical underwater conditions by assessing the influence of different factors on the results. In the second test, the accuracy of the 3D model obtained through this technique has been evaluated. The third test deals with the geo-localization of the 3D models, conducted by merging the optical and acoustic data, through a multi-resolution bathymetric map of the site as a reference.
3D MODELING FOR UNDERWATER ARCHAEOLOGICAL DOCUMENTATION: METRIC VERIFICATIONS
Authors: D’Amelio S. , Maggio V. , Villa B.
Published: April 2015

Abstract. The survey in underwater environment has always presented considerable difficulties both operative and technical and this has sometimes made it difficult to use the techniques of survey commonly used for the documentation of Cultural Heritage in dry environment. The work of study concerns the evaluation in terms of capability and accuracy of the Autodesk123DCatch software for the reconstruction of a three-dimensional model of an object in underwater context. The subjects of the study are models generated from sets of photographs and sets of frames extracted from video sequence. The study is based on comparative method, using a reference model, obtained with laser scanner technique.
LASER SCANNER RELIEFS OF SELECTED ARCHEOLOGICAL STRUCTURES IN THE SUBMERGED BAIAE (NAPLES)
Authors: Davidde Petriaggi B. , Gomez de Ayala G.
Published: April 2015

Abstract. In 2011 the ISCR (Rome), in the frame of the Project Restoring Underwater directed by Barbara Davidde Petriaggi, started to test Naumacos Laser Scann 1, designed by Gabriele Gomez de Ayala, in order to document the restoration of a room paved with opus sectile probably part of the Bath of Punta Epitaffio (Underwater Park of Baiae – Marine Protected Area, Naples). The experimentation conducted in Baiae by ISCR has shown the effectiveness of the Laser Scanner; this method also allowed to considerably reduce times and costs of underwater surveying. Moreover, the 3D relief obtained, has the characteristic of being geometrically (accuracy is sub-millimetric) and chromatically faithful to the reconstructed structure, as well as being exportable in various forms and usable in several contexts. From 2011 to 2013 the evolution of the instrument Naumacos Laser Scanner 3 was developed and tested in the restoration work of the Villa con ingresso a protiro, where three structures were documented in 3D (a paved with black and white mosaic decorated with hexagons and peltae, a very fragmentary black and white mosaic and a stone artefact. This paper shows the results of this documentation campaign and it underlines the prominent role in documentation and in museum display of Underwater Cultural Heritage played by the three-dimensional laser scanning survey. This technique also contributes to the increase of the value of scientific dissemination.
Comparison of storm damage functions and their performance
Authors: Prahl B. F. , Rybski D. , Burghoff O. , Kropp J. P.
Published: April 2015

Abstract. Winter storms are the most costly natural hazard for European residential property. We compare four distinct storm damage functions with respect to their forecast accuracy and variability, with particular regard to the most severe winter storms. The analysis focuses on daily loss estimates under differing spatial aggregation, ranging from district to country level. We discuss the broad and heavily skewed distribution of insured losses posing difficulties for both the calibration and the evaluation of damage functions. From theoretical considerations, we provide a synthesis between the frequently discussed cubic wind–damage relationship and recent studies that report much steeper damage functions for European winter storms. The performance of the storm loss models is evaluated for two sources of wind gust data, direct observations by the German Weather Service and ERA-Interim reanalysis data. While the choice of gust data has little impact on the evaluation of German storm loss, spatially resolved coefficients of variation reveal dependence between model and data choice. The comparison shows that the probabilistic models by Heneka et al. (2006) and Prahl et al. (2012) both provide accurate loss predictions for moderate to extreme losses, with generally small coefficients of variation. We favour the latter model in terms of model applicability. Application of the versatile deterministic model by Klawa and Ulbrich (2003) should be restricted to extreme loss, for which it shows the least bias and errors comparable to the probabilistic model by Prahl et al. (2012).
Warming permafrost and active layer variability at Cime Bianche, Western European Alps
Authors: Pogliotti P. , Guglielmin M. , Cremonese E. , Morra di Cella U. , Filippa G. , Pellet C. , Hauck C.
Published: April 2015

Abstract. The objective of this paper is to provide a first synthesis on the state and recent evolution of permafrost at the monitoring site of Cime Bianche (3100 m a.s.l.) on the Italian side of the Western Alps. The analysis is based on 7 years of ground temperature observations in two boreholes and seven surface points. The analysis aims to quantify the spatial and temporal variability of ground surface temperature in relation to snow cover, the small-scale spatial variability of the active layer thickness and current temperature trends in deep permafrost. Results show that the heterogeneity of snow cover thickness, both in space and time, is the main factor controlling ground surface temperatures and leads to a mean range of spatial variability (2.5 ± 0.1 °C) which far exceeds the mean range of observed inter-annual variability (1.6 ± 0.1 °C). The active layer thickness measured in two boreholes at a distance of 30 m shows a mean difference of 2.0 ± 0.1 m with the active layer of one borehole consistently deeper. As revealed by temperature analysis and geophysical soundings, such a difference is mainly driven by the ice/water content in the sub-surface and not by the snow cover regimes. The analysis of deep temperature time series reveals that permafrost is warming. The detected trends are statistically significant starting from a depth below 8 m with warming rates between 0.1 and 0.01 °C yr−1.
Fistulas of the lower urinary tract in children
Authors: Tonegatti Luca , Scarpa Maria-Grazia , Goruppi Ilaria , Olenik Damiana , Rigamonti Waifro
Published: April 2015

A lower urinary tract fistula consist in an abnormal connection between bladder, urethra and adjacent abdominal organs or skin. There are several types of urinary fistulas in paediatric age and they may be congenital or acquired. Etiology may be due to embriological defects, infectious processes, malignant tumours, pelvic irradiation as well as complications following surgical procedures, expecially postsurgical repair of hypospadia or epispadia. Clinical presentation depends on the type of fistula and diagnosis is based on signs, symptoms and radiological or endoscopic examinations.

We performed PubMed research using terms such as lower urinary fistulae, urology and paediatrics and we consulted medical texts. We reviewed selected articles and used the relevant ones to perform our study concentrating on classification, diagnosis and treatment of different types of fistulas.

Paediatric lower urinary fistulas are an uncommon pathology, but the knowledge of their etiology and classification is important to recognise them and lead the physician to an appropriate treatment, which is surgical in most cases.
Acute Effects of Energy Drinks on Behavioural Sanctions in Secondary School Children: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Richards Gareth , Millward Nick , Evans Philip , Rogers James , Smith Andrew
Published: April 2015

A large body of research suggests that diet can exert significant effects on behaviour, mood, and cognition. Of particular concern in recent years has been the rapid rise in popularity of highly caffeinated energy drinks, with some suggesting that they may negatively impact the performance, behaviour and health of schoolchildren. The current study aimed to assess whether these products exert acute effects on the likelihood of children receiving detentions. In addition, another known risk factor, the omission of breakfast, was also recorded. Participants in the current study came from a cohort of 3071 pupils attending three secondary schools in the South West of England. Those who were given a detention during a weeklong period of December 2013 (N = 40) were asked to state whether or not they had consumed an energy drink and eaten breakfast that day. The results were then compared to a control day later in the same week on which detentions had not been received. The children given detention were found to be more likely to habitually consume energy drinks and skip breakfast than other children in the cohort from which they came. The major difference between detention and control days was that on detention days there was an increase in both missing breakfast and consuming energy drinks. Though conclusions must be tentative due to the preliminary nature of the study, the results indicate that breakfast intervention programmes and restricting energy drink consumption may be effective methods for reducing problem behaviour in secondary schools.
Determinants of Household Food Insecurity in Developing Countries Evidences From a Probit Model for the Case of Rural Households in Rwanda
Authors: Habyarimana Jean Baptiste
Published: April 2015

This study uses probit model to identify determinants of food insecurity among rural households in developing countries. The model used in this study, that allowed us to estimate coefficient and marginal effect for each independent variable vis-à-vis dependent variable, guarantees large applications among food security actors and policymakers to find out factors that significantly explain food insecurity and the level of their predictability. The ability of the model used to correctly classify food insecure and food secure households is good for the overall model and for households headed by males while it is fair for households headed by females. The empirical results show that rural households are more exposed to food insecurity than urban households. Gender disaggregation by the head of households shows that among food insecure rural households, the majority of them are headed by females. It also shows that the mean and median of predicted probability of becoming food insecure among rural households headed by males and females is 0.21 and 0.28 for mean and 0.15 and 0.24 for median respectively. This indicates that households headed by females are more likely exposed to food insecurity than those headed by males. However, as the majority of rural households in developing countries depend on agriculture, this study found that it is worthwhile for developing countries to adopt new agricultural technologies to urgently increase productivity and to implement and facilitate programs supporting rural households pathways to increase households’ livelihood capacities.
Trends in Children’s Exposure to Food and Beverage Advertising on Television
Authors: Powell Lisa M. , Leider Julien , Schermbeck Rebecca M. , Vandenbroeck Aline , Harris Jennifer L.
Published: August 2024

Importance

Reducing children’s exposure to advertisements promoting unhealthy foods and beverages has been recognized by the World Health Organization as a key strategy to improve children’s diets and reduce childhood obesity.

Objective

To examine changes in children’s exposure to food-related (food, beverage, and restaurant) television advertising, including for products high in nutrients to limit (NTL; ie, saturated fat, trans fat, total sugars, and sodium) based on federal Interagency Working Group guidelines, following changes in the voluntary industry self-regulatory Children’s Food and Beverage Advertising Initiative (CFBAI).

Design, Setting, and Participants

This repeated cross-sectional study used US television ratings data on advertising exposure from The Nielsen Company for 2013, 2014, 2015, 2018, and 2022. Food and beverage product advertisements were assessed for nutritional content. Participants included 2- to 5-year-old and 6-to 11-year-old children. Data analysis was performed from July 2023 to January 2024.

Exposure

Changes in CFBAI standards in 2014 and 2020.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was the number of food-related advertisements seen per year and percentage of food and beverage product advertisements high in NTL, on all programming and children’s programming (defined as ≥35% child audience share).

Results

From 2013 to 2022, total advertisements seen per year declined by 77.6% (from 4611 to 1035) for 2- to 5-year-olds and by 78.5% (from 4860 to 1046) for 6- to 11-year-olds. Advertisements seen on children’s programming decreased by 95.1% (from 1703 to 84 per year) for 2- to 5-year-olds and by 97.0% (from 1745 to 52 per year) for 6- to 11-year-olds. The percentages of advertisements for products high in NTL decreased from 2013 to 2022 but were still high: 68.9% for all programming and 63.9% for children’s programming for 2- to 5-year-olds, and 68.4% for all programming and 60.6% for children’s programming for 6- to 11-year-olds. The majority (51%-52%) of CFBAI-member food and beverage advertisements on children’s programming remained high in NTL. Black children saw more food-related television advertisements than White children (58% more for 2- to 5-year-olds and 72% more for 6- to 11-year-olds); however, the percentage of advertisements for food and beverage products high in NTL seen was similar by race.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this repeated cross-sectional study of children’s exposure to food-related television advertisements, exposure via children’s programming decreased substantially. However, most advertisements seen were still for unhealthy products, and exposure from all programming remained substantial. Findings of more than 90% of advertising exposure not from children’s programming and more than 1000 food-related advertisements seen per year suggest the need for government regulations based on time of day rather than programming.
Antitrans Policy Environment and Depression and Anxiety Symptoms in Transgender and Nonbinary Adults
Authors: Restar Arjee , Layland Eric K. , Hughes Landon , Dusic Emerson , Lucas Ruby , Bambilla Audren J. K. , Martin Aleks , Shook Alic , Karrington Baer , Schwarz Deborah , Shimkin Genya , Grandberry Vanessa , Xanadu Xero , Streed Carl G. , Operario Don , Gamarel Kristi E. , Kershaw Trace
Published: August 2024

Importance

With the increasing legislation restricting health care access for transgender and nonbinary (trans) populations in recent years, there has been limited research on how awareness of and concerns about legislative restrictions and protections influence mental health outcomes.

Objective

To examine whether awareness of and concerns about the current policy environment regarding trans individuals are associated with depression and anxiety symptoms among trans adults.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This study uses cross-sectional data collected between March and April 2023 from the Washington Priority Assessment in Trans Health (PATH) Project, an online study designed by, with, and for trans communities. All participants were trans adults, aged 18 years or older, living in Washington state.

Exposure

Awareness and concerns about the antitrans policy environment.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcomes were depression and anxiety symptoms, assessed via the Patient Health Questionnaire–4. A series of multivariable regression models was used to assess the association between awareness and concerns about the antitrans policy environment and depression and anxiety symptoms. Models were adjusted for covariates, including demographics, social marginalization, and health care experiences.

Results

A total of 797 participants (653 women [81.93%]; 455 aged 18-29 years [57.09%]) were included. The majority screened positive for current depression (689 individuals [86.45%]) and anxiety (686 individuals [86.07%]) symptoms. Trans individuals who were concerned or worried about their rights being taken away (vs not) had significantly higher odds of current depression symptoms (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.66; 95% CI, 1.08-2.54), as well as current anxiety symptoms (aOR, 2.67; 95% CI, 1.63-4.36). Those who knew (vs did not know) about state-level protective legislation had significantly lower odds of current depression symptoms (aOR, 0.44; 95% CI, 0.28-0.67), as well as current anxiety symptoms (aOR, 0.11; 95% CI, 0.04-0.25). When examining interaction effect estimates, trans individuals who correctly knew about the protective policies and were not worried about having their rights taken away reported the lowest odds of depression and anxiety.

Conclusions and Relevance

The findings of this cross-sectional study are consistent with research elucidating the negative mental health consequences of policies limiting health care access and provide insights into informing policies and interventions that target trans populations’ worsened mental health outcomes as a result of antitrans legislation.
Insight into Inorganic Solid‐State Electrolytes: Ionic Transport and Failure Mechanisms
Authors: Zhu Xinxin , Wu Junxiu , Lu Jun
Published: August 2024

All‐solid‐state lithium‐ion batteries (ASSLBs) with inorganic solid‐state electrolytes (ISEs) have great potential for enhanced safety, high energy density, and long lifetime. Numerous works have focused on designing high‐conductive materials and (electro)chemically stable interfaces, contributing to the rapid development of ASSLBs. However, the lack of a comprehensive and in‐depth understanding of the intrinsic ionic conduction and failure mechanisms of ISEs in ASSLBs limits their further improvement. In this work, the analysis of the ionic transport mechanisms is focused in the different crystalline states of ISEs including bulk crystal, grain boundary, and amorphousness. Various failure mechanisms of ISEs concerning structure degradation, mechanical pulverization, and lithium dendrite penetration that trigger the capacity attenuation of cells are also discussed. This work is wraped up by providing the perspective on how to optimize the electrochemical performance of ASSLBs, which can, with the hope, pave the way for achieving the commercialization of ASSLBs.
Functional Thermoplastic Polyurethane Elastomers with α, ω‐Hydroxyl End‐Functionalized Polyacrylates
Authors: Yu Changhoon , Choi Jinho , Lee Jungwook , Lim Sumin , Park Youngjoo , Jo Seong Min , Ahn Junyoung , Kim So Youn , Chang Taihyun , Boyer Cyrille , Kwon Min Sang
Published: August 2024

Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) is an essential class of materials for demanding applications, from soft robotics and electronics to medical devices and batteries. However, traditional TPU development is primarily relied on specific soft segments, such as polyether, polyester, and polycarbonate polyols. Here, a novel method is introduced for developing TPU elastomers with enhanced performance and superior functionalities compared to conventional TPUs, achieved through the use of α,ω‐hydroxyl end‐functionalized polyacrylates. This approach involves a defect‐free synthesis of α,ω‐hydroxyl end‐functionalized polyacrylates through visible‐light‐driven photoiniferter polymerization. By strategically blending these functionalized polyacrylates with conventional polyols, TPUs that exhibit exceptional toughness and notable self‐healing capabilities, traits rarely found in existing TPUs are engineered. Furthermore, incorporating photo‐crosslinkable acrylic monomers has enabled the creation of the first TPU with superior elastomeric properties and photopatterning capabilities. This approach paves the way for a new direction in polyurethane engineering, introducing a novel class of soft segments and unlocking the potential for a wide range of advanced applications.
Advancing Light‐Driven Elastic Crystals: Toward Sustainable Applications in Robotic Arms, Information Identification, and Optical Waveguides
Authors: Peng Jiang , Yang Jing , Zhao Yuheng , Wang Yan , Xue Pengchong , Wang Kai , Li Qian , Li Aisen
Published: August 2024

An innovative elastic crystal based on barbituric acid derivatives (HBDT), which uniquely alters its fluorescence intensity under light exposure is developed. This crystal exhibits significant bending under 365 nm, 450 nm, white light, and sunlight while retaining its elasticity post‐bending. The photomechanical effect of this crystal is driven by intermolecular [2+2] cycloaddition reactions, resulting in light‐activated fluorescence enhancement. These properties open new avenues for applications in robotic arms, information identification, and optical waveguides, presenting a groundbreaking approach for sustainable and flexible crystal applications in material science and optical technology.
Fused Carbazole‐based Self‐Assembled Monolayers Enable Efficient Perovskite Solar Cells and Perovskite Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Guo Shiyan , Yang Xiaoxiao , Zhang Qin , Jin Xin , Zhang Daqing , Guo Yuxiao , Zhou Haitao , Huang Jinhai , Su Jianhua , Xu Bo
Published: August 2024

Carbazole‐derived self‐assembled monolayers (SAMs) with excellent hole‐extraction and injection properties are promising hole‐transporting materials for perovskite optoelectronic devices, including perovskite solar cells (PSCs) and perovskite light‐emitting diodes (PeLEDs). The performance and thermal stability of these SAMs are heavily influenced by their chemical structure. Herein, the construction of fused carbazole‐based SAMs is proposed by expanding the π‐conjugation of the carbazole unit for application in PSCs and PeLEDs. Three proof‐of‐concept SAMs are designed and synthesized, termed XS8, XS9, and XS10, that feature highly rigid and planar fused carbazole as the donor and a conjugated alkene unit as the linker. This conjugated extension improves planarity, stability, and enhances the molecular dipole moment. Among these, XS10, with the highest degree of conjugation, demonstrated superior performance in perovskite‐based devices. The PSC device utilizing XS10 achieves a maximum power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 20.28%, surpassing the 17.19% PCE of the classic 2PACz‐based device. Similarly, the PeLED device with XS10 achieves a maximum external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 16.6%, compared to 14.5% for PEDOT‐based devices. This work provides a novel molecular design strategy for creating efficient and stable SAMs for perovskite optoelectronics and other organic electronic devices.
Impact of Hole Scavengers on Efficient Photocatalytic Hydrogen Production
Authors: Augustin Ashil , Ganguly Priyanka , Shenoy Sulakshana , Chuaicham Chitiphon , Pillai Suresh C. , Sasaki Keiko , Lee Adam F. , Sekar Karthikeyan
Published: August 2024

Hydrogen is one of the most promising alternative energy resources to replace fossil feedstocks, with so‐called “green” hydrogen, derived by water splitting (WS) using renewable electricity or sunlight, the most sustainable. Photocatalytic hydrogen production, in which sunlight is the sole energy input, has been extensively studied, and requires the creation of photogenerated excitons (through irradiation of semiconductors) and their transport to aqueous media. Chemical scavengers, notably electron donating molecules, are widely used to quench photogenerated holes and thereby suppress exciton recombination which otherwise limits the hydrogen yield. Despite their prevalence, the role and significance of such scavengers (also termed sacrificial agents) in photocatalytic WS remains poorly understood, hindering their rational selection. This review focuses on the importance of electron donors in photocatalytic WS, and their participation in the reaction mechanism.
Ceramic Rich Composite Electrolytes: An Overview of Paradigm Shift toward Solid Electrolytes for High‐Performance Lithium‐Metal Batteries
Authors: Maurya Dheeraj Kumar , Bazri Behrouz , Srivastava Pavitra , Huang Jheng‐Yi , Hung Yuan‐Ting , Huang Wen‐Tse , Wei Da‐Hua , Liu Ru‐Shi
Published: August 2024

Exploiting the synergy between organic polymer electrolytes and inorganic electrolytes via the development of composite electrolytes can suggest solutions to the current challenges of next‐generation solid‐state lithium‐metal batteries (SSLMBs). Depending upon a mass fraction of inorganic fillers and organic polymers, composite electrolytes are broadly classified into “ceramic‐in‐polymer” (CIP) and “polymer‐in‐ceramic” (PIC) categories, inheriting distinct structure and electrochemical properties. Since the stability and electrochemical characteristics of the inorganic phase are superior to those of the organic phase for lithium‐ion conduction, applying lithium‐enrich active filler in PIC seems more promising. The inorganic phase preserves the primary migratory channels in the PIC electrolyte, while the viscoelastic properties attempt to be introduced from the organic binder or host. The present work overviews the studies on state‐of‐the‐art PIC electrolytes, the fundamental mechanism of ionic conduction, preparation methods, and current progress in materials development for SSLMBs. In addition, the modification strategies for improving the electrode–electrolyte interface are also emphasized. Moreover, it further prospects the current challenges and effective strategies for the future development of PICs‐based CPEs to accelerate the practical application of SSLMBs. This review examines the progress and outlook of PIC‐based electrolytes for next‐generation lithium batteries.
BubSAM: Bubble segmentation and shape reconstruction based on Segment Anything Model of bubbly flow
Authors: Xu Haohan , Feng Xin , Pu Yuqi , Wang Xiaoyue , Huang Dingwang , Zhang Weipeng , Duan Xiaoxia , Chen Jie , Yang Chao
Published: August 2024

Accurate detection and analysis of bubble size and shape in bubbly flow are critical to understanding mass and heat transfer processes. Convolutional neural networks have limitations in different bubble images due to their dependence on large amounts of labeled data. A new foundational Segment Anything Model (SAM) recently attracts lots of attention for its zero‐shot segmentation performance. Herein, we developed a novel image processing method named bubSAM, which achieves efficient and accurate bubble segmentation and shape reconstruction based on SAM. The segmentation performance of bubSAM is 30% higher than that of SAM, and its accuracy reaches 90% under different bubbly flow conditions. The accuracy of bubble shape reconstruction (BSR) algorithm in bubSAM is about 30% higher than that of typical ellipse fitting method, thus better restoring the geometric shape of bubbles. BubSAM can provide great support for understanding gas–liquid multiphase flow and design of industrial multiphase reactors.