bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How effective are ecological metrics in supporting conservation and management in degraded streams?
Authors: Mathers Kate L. , Robinson Christopher T. , Hill Matthew , Kowarik Carmen , Heino Jani , Deacon Charl , Weber Christine
Published: September 2024

Biodiversity loss is increasing worldwide, necessitating effective approaches to counteract negative trends. Here, we assessed aquatic macroinvertebrate biodiversity in two river catchments in Switzerland; one significantly degraded and associated with urbanisation and instream barriers, and one in a near-natural condition. Contrary to our expectations, environmental heterogeneity was lower in the near-natural stream, with enhanced productivity in the degraded system resulting in a greater range of environmental conditions. At face value, commonly employed alpha, beta and gamma biodiversity metrics suggested both catchments constituted healthy systems, with greater richness or comparable values recorded in the degraded system relative to the near-natural one. Further, functional metrics considered to be early indicators for anthropogenic disturbance, demonstrated no anticipated differences between degraded and near-natural catchments. However, investigating the identity of the taxa unique to each river system showed that anthropogenic degradation led to replacement of specialist, sensitive species indicative of pristine rivers, by generalist, pollution tolerant species. These replacements reflect a major alteration in community composition in the degraded system compared with the near-natural system. Total nitrogen and fine sediment were important in distinguishing the respective communities. We urge caution in biodiversity studies that employ numerical biodiversity metrics alone. Assessing just one aspect of diversity, such as richness, is not sufficient to track biodiversity changes associated with environmental stress. We advocate that biodiversity monitoring for conservation and management purposes must go beyond traditional richness biodiversity metrics, to include indices that incorporate detailed nuances of biotic communities that relates to taxon identity.
FRAPPE: fast rank approximation with explainable features for tensors
Authors: Shiao William , Papalexakis Evangelos E.
Published: September 2024

Tensor decompositions have proven to be effective in analyzing the structure of multidimensional data. However, most of these methods require a key parameter: the number of desired components. In the case of the CANDECOMP/PARAFAC decomposition (CPD), the ideal value for the number of components is known as the canonical rank and greatly affects the quality of the decomposition results. Existing methods use heuristics or Bayesian methods to estimate this value by repeatedly calculating the CPD, making them extremely computationally expensive. In this work, we propose FRAPPE, the first method to estimate the canonical rank of a tensor without having to compute the CPD. This method is the result of two key ideas. First, it is much cheaper to generate synthetic data with known rank compared to computing the CPD. Second, we can greatly improve the generalization ability and speed of our model by generating synthetic data that matches a given input tensor in terms of size and sparsity. We can then train a specialized single-use regression model on a synthetic set of tensors engineered to match a given input tensor and use that to estimate the canonical rank of the tensor—all without computing the expensive CPD. FRAPPE is over $$24\times $$

24
×

faster than the best-performing baseline, and exhibits a $$10\%$$

10
%

improvement in MAPE on a synthetic dataset. It also performs as well as or better than the baselines on real-world datasets.
Tablet Computers in Early Science Education: Enriching Teacher–Child Interactions
Authors: Studhalter Ueli Thomas , Jossen Priska , Seeli Marco , Tettenborn Annette
Published: September 2024

Engaging in vivid conversations is crucial for the social and cognitive development of young children and for building their understanding of science phenomena. In this regard, educators play a pivotal role in shaping interactions with learners by providing adequate scaffolds to promote sustained shared thinking. Tablet computers are considered to have substantial potential for supporting learning, particularly in enriching communication and collaboration, as well as in making science phenomena more accessible. However, there are concerns that increased screen time may lead to social isolation. To address this situation, the present multiple-case study explores the impact of using tablet computers’ video functionality on the quality of teacher–child interactions during a specific play-based learning scenario in the domain of science. The investigation, which employed a mixed-method approach, followed two individual teachers separately during 24 lessons each in a videographic setup and isolated 200 science content-relevant interaction episodes. These episodes were coded according to their interaction quality in an inter-rater agreement procedure using MAXQDA. High-quality interactions were defined as those episodes involving a deep, prolonged, intellectual and content-specific exchange between the teacher and at least one child, based on both teacher and children playing their active roles in the participation of the talk. The results indicated that using tablets in the specific play scenario under investigation was associated with teacher–child interactions of longer duration, variable scaffold quality among teachers, and increased verbal engagement from children. These results counter the concerns that the use of digital media might lead to screen-based isolation and suggest that tablet computers can be harnessed for valuable educational interactions.
Inclusive Education for Children with Developmental Disabilities in Ethiopia: Stakeholder Views on Benefits, Disadvantages and Priorities for Action
Authors: Burningham Olivia , Chen Amanda , Genovesi Elisa , Belay Winini , Ahmed Ikram , Ayele Moges , Girma Fikirte , Lakew Liya Tesfaye , Hanlon Charlotte , Hoekstra Rosa A.
Published: September 2024

Children with developmental disabilities (DD) including intellectual disability and autism, experience exclusion from social life and education in Ethiopia. Including children with DD in mainstream inclusive classes has potential to expand access to education and uphold their right to learn alongside typically developing peers. However, inadequate support in inclusive settings can hinder their participation and educational achievement. This study explores the perspectives of stakeholders on the ways in which inclusive education can support the needs or exacerbate the challenges of children with DD in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and on recommendations to address the challenges. Thirty-nine participants with expertise or experience relevant to children with DD, including caregivers, educators, clinicians and other experts, took part in semi-structured interviews. Their responses were analysed using thematic template analysis. The themes developed identify four aspects which are most relevant to the potential positive and negative consequences of inclusive education for children with DD: learning and development, peer relationships, safety in school and inclusion in society. The themes encompass sub-themes of positive and negative consequences, and suggested improvements to facilitate positive effects. Identified priorities for action include enhanced teacher training, awareness-raising initiatives, tailoring infrastructure and manpower to safeguard children with DD and promoting government focus on successful inclusion. These recommendations can be implemented to facilitate well-structured inclusive education, where children with DD are supported to participate alongside typically developing peers, as well as to safeguard against the potential negative consequences of inclusion, paying sufficient attention to the distinctive needs of children with DD.
Psychometric Properties and Gender Invariance of the Portuguese (European) Version of the Aging Sexual Knowledge and Attitudes Scale
Authors: Rodrigues Liliana , Peixoto Maria Manuela , Patrão Ana Luísa , Santos Luís , Magalhães Sara Isabel , Nogueira Conceição
Published: September 2024

The sexuality of older people was understood as non-existent or as something outside the prevailing norm. In this sense, analysing people's sexual knowledge and attitudes towards older people is a challenge for theory and practice. The aim of this study is to translate and validate the Aging Sexual Knowledge and Attitudes Scale (ASKAS) for the Portuguese population. A sample of 994 Portuguese adults (70.9% women, n = 705) completed the ASKAS-PT along with a series of self-report measures. Confirmatory factor analysis and the psychometric properties of the Portuguese (European) version of ASKAS-PT were investigated, particularly reliability, temporal stability, and convergent and critical validity. This study also examined the gender measurement invariance of the ASKAS-PT. After confirmatory factor analysis, a two-factor model fit the Portuguese version best. Reliability and validity results also showed good results, and the ASKAS-PT appears to be a gender-invariant measure. Overall, the Portuguese version of the ASKAS showed good psychometric properties and appears to be a valid and reliable measure for assessing knowledge and attitudes about aging.
Financial accounting in family business: a systematic literature review and future research agenda
Authors: Manzi Maria Angela , Netti Antonio , Favino Christian , Sarto Fabrizia
Published: September 2024

Academic researchers have recently recognised the impact of family firms’ idiosyncrasies and characteristics on financial accounting practices, and identified distinctions between family and non-family businesses. However, this issue still needs appropriate systematisation and discussion. It is important to understand how family businesses’ features shape financial accounting phenomena, but the most authoritative review on the topic dates back more than 10 years. We therefore conducted a systematic review of 133 articles on financial accounting in family firms published in peer-reviewed journals up to 2023. We aimed to assess what scholars have explored so far on this topic, interpreting findings using three levels of analysis: family, business, and individual. The novelty of our paper comes from using this framework to create a thematic map that provides a comprehensive overview of the current research on this topic and developing an extensive research agenda for future studies. The article also provides practical implications for family firm managers, practitioners, and regulators by clarifying the influence of characteristics of family businesses on accounting practices.
The Slovak ethos of plebeian resistance and the First World War
Authors: Gluchman Vasil , Gluchmanová Marta
Published: September 2024

The authors examine the Slovak ethos of plebeian resistance to the First World War in several of its forms. First, they examine intellectual forms of resistance against war, against its Christian justification. Several Slovak authors emphasized that the First World War was in direct contradiction to Christian ethics, asserting that it served as proof of the failure of all European nations and their elites, who were proud of their humanity and ability to solve problems peacefully. Secular authors who based their opposition to the First World War on universal cultural and moral values represented the second form of resistance. After the end of the war, they also expected the equal rights of the Slovak ethnic group in the new post-war situation. The third form of resistance is literature, and the authors of the article focused mainly on Milo Urban’s novel Živý bič (1927) as the most important anti-war novel of Slovak interwar literature reflecting wartime events in the Orava village of Ráztoky.
Williams for and Against. Politics as a Constitutively Normative Practice
Authors: Bermejo-Luque Lilian
Published: September 2024

The main goal of this paper is to show that politics constitutes a normative domain of its own. To this, a concept of political value that explains why the politically good provides reasons for actions is indispensable. I shape this concept by adopting the framework of political minimalism and developing one of its central tenets, namely, that politics, as a constitutively normative practice, specifies objective standards for evaluating political phenomena. I characterize the notion of political value in these terms to offer a non-moralist foundation for political normativity. In this endeavor, the work of Bernard Williams plays two opposing roles: while his metapolitical ideas exemplify the shortcomings of substantialist accounts of political normativity, his criticism of the morality system and his conception of practical rationality as all-things-considered practical deliberation are fundamental, to the point that the conception of political normativity endorsed here can be seen as an extension of Williams’ ideas on normativity in general. Finally, I draw some consequences from this account of political minimalism to show that this conception of political normativity can hardly be considered a variety of political realism.
Fatigue Damage Evolution in SS316L Produced by Powder Bed Fusion in Different Orientations with Reused Powder Feedstock
Authors: Kopec M. , Gunputh U. , Williams G. , Macek W. , Kowalewski Z.L. , Wood P.
Published: September 2024

Background

Metal Laser Powder Bed Fusion Melting (LPBF-M) is considered economically viable and environmentally sustainable because of the possibility of reusing the residual powder feedstock leftover in the build chamber after a part build is completed. There is however limited information on the fatigue damage development of LPBF-M samples made from reused feedstock.

Objective

In this paper, the stainless steel 316 L (SS316L) powder feedstock was examined and characterised after 25 reuses, following which the fatigue damage development of material samples made from the reused powder was assessed.

Methods

The suitability of the powder to LPBF-M technology was evaluated by microstructural observations and measurements of Hall flow, apparent and tapped density as well as Carr’s Index and Hausner ratio. LPBF-M bar samples in three build orientations (Z – vertical, XY – horizontal, ZX – 45° from the build plate) were built for fatigue testing. They were then subjected to fatigue testing under load control using full tension and compression cyclic loading and stress asymmetry coefficient equal to -1 in the range of stress amplitude from ± 300 MPa to ± 500 MPa.

Results

Samples made from reused powder (25 times) in the LPBF-M process exhibited similar fatigue performance to fresh unused powder although a lower ductility for vertical samples was observed during tensile testing. Printing in horizontal (XY) and diagonal (ZX) directions, with reused powder, improved the service life of the SS316L alloy in comparison to the vertical (Z).

Conclusions

Over the 25 reuses of the powder feedstock there was no measurable difference in the flowability between the fresh (Hall Flow: 21.4 s/50 g) and reused powder (Hall Flow: 20.6 s/50 g). This confirms a uniform and stable powder feeding process during LPBF-M for both fresh and reused powder. The analysis of fatigue damage parameter, D, concluded cyclic plasticity and ratcheting to be the main mechanism of damage.
Field intensity dependence of the dissociative multiple ionization of argon dimers in strong femtosecond laser fields
Authors: Song Pan , Zhu Yalei , Wang Xiaowei , Meng Congsen , Jiang Tao , Lv Zhihui , Zhang Dongwen , Qin Chaochao , Zhao Zengxiu , Yuan Jianmin
Published: September 2024

The dissociative ionization of Ar dimers is investigated in femtosecond laser fields with intensities from 260 to 1020 TW/cm2. The three-dimensional momentum and kinetic-energy release of fragmental ions generated from the channels Ar2
2+→Ar++Ar+, Ar2
3+→Ar2++Ar+, and Ar2
4+→Ar2++Ar2+ were measured with a cold-target recoil-ion momentum spectrometer. It is shown that the laser intensity significantly modulates the kinetic energies and angular distributions of fragmental ions from dissociative double ionization. Laser-induced charge-transfer following one-site double ionization contributes relatively more to the dissociative double ionization at lower laser intensity. The calculation results of a one-dimensional model based on the WKB approximation suggest that the charge transfer is suppressed at higher laser intensity due to the core polarization effect. In addition, double, triple, and quadruple dissociative ionizations of Ar dimers are accompanied by frustrated-tunneling ionization that increases with the laser intensity.
“Improving Diet Quality of Children with Dyslipidemia Who also Exhibit Picky Eating Behaviors”
Authors: Carter Janet
Published: September 2024

Purpose of the Review

This review is intended to serve as guidance for care providers working with children who have dyslipidemia and exhibit picky eating behaviors.

Recent Findings

Picky eating behaviors in children can be very stressful for caregivers and children alike, even if they may not reach clinical significance. In the setting of lipid disorder treatment, picky eating can present an even greater challenge, since many of the foods considered most heart-healthy are not often considered “kid-friendly”.

Care providers should validate caregivers’ concerns, screen for picky eating and be prepared to provide guidance to parents and a referral to a specialist, if needed. This review contains an itemized list of points to focus on with families and additional resources.
Thermoformed Fiber-Polyethylene Biocomposites: A Circular Food Packaging on Cherry Tomatoes
Authors: Morcillo-Martín Ramón , Rabasco-Vílchez Laura , Jiménez-Jiménez Francisco , Espinosa Eduardo , Tarrés Quim , Rodríguez Alejandro
Published: September 2024

Current European food packaging legislation requires exploring new alternatives to respond the challenges that lie ahead. Using sustainably sourced biomass, such as pruning residues, has significant potential for creating sustainable packaging. Avocado pruning fiber (10–40%) together with bio-polyethylene was used to produce biocomposites by thermoforming technology. The materials were evaluated for food contact suitability. Adding avocado pruning fiber to biopolyethylene improved processability, producing functional trays with up to 30% fiber. The biocomposites reduced S. aureus and L. monocytogenes adhesion, especially with 20% fiber, and enhanced antioxidant activity, reaching 17.82% SA/cm2 with 40% fiber. Soil degradation tests showed a 23% reduction for 40% fiber samples after 91 days. Migrations within the limits for hydrophilic, acidic, and fatty foods were obtained for samples containing up to 20% fiber. Cherry tomatoes stored in bio-based trays demonstrated comparable or superior preservation to commercial high-density-polyethylene trays, with reduced fungal growth, lower weight loss, and better color retention.
Combined large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma of the lung: case report with brief review
Authors: Agrawal Sujata , Paul Paramita
Published: September 2024

Large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (LCNEC) in the lung is an uncommon and highly aggressive type of histological variation, representing only a small percentage of all lung cancer cases. The occurrence of combined LCNEC, distinguished by the coexistence of neuroendocrine and non-neuroendocrine elements within a single tumor, is even more infrequent. A 49-year-old male presented with lytic lesion of the mandible with suspected lung metastasis. Biopsy of the mandibular lesion was reported as ameloblastic fibroma. The biopsy of the lung lesion turned out to be combined LCNEC of the lung. Further positron emission tomography (PET) evaluation showed multiple metastatic deposits in bilateral lungs, mediastinal nodes, liver, bone, adrenal, and kidney. The patient has received seven cycles of paclitaxel and carboplatin with decrease in size of nodes and lesion post 6 months. Herein, we report a case of combined LCNEC with lung adenocarcinoma which is infrequently encountered and has been a subject of research with a brief review of literature.
To Gain One More Close Person: A Polish Study on How Volunteers Working With Seniors Perceive the Significance of their Work and What they Consider Essential to Continue It
Authors: Nowakowska Iwona
Published: September 2024

In an ageing and ever lonelier society, volunteering based on intergenerational relationships is becoming an increasingly salient form of support, but also a valuable leisure activity. With the help of thematic analysis, the study explored (1) how young adult volunteers working with seniors perceive their work and (2) what encouraged them to take up the volunteering role and what makes it easier or possible for them to remain active. Interviews were conducted in Poland in 2020 with 10 volunteers aged between 22 and 35 (6 women, 4 men) who had experience of working with seniors during the year preceding the study. Seven issues emerged from the analysis: the context in which volunteering began; personal characteristics of the volunteer; daily difficulties of the elderly; keeping the senior company in transience and loneliness; attachment and relationship between the volunteer and the elderly person(s); personal benefits of involvement in volunteering; social benefits of involvement in volunteering. The results were discussed in the light of the volunteer process model and the types of volunteers’ motivations. Several volunteers also pointed to the role of volunteering not only in building a norm of reciprocity in relationships with seniors, but also more broadly in the society.
SEOM-GETNE-TTCC Clinical guideline thyroid cancer (2023)
Authors: Alonso-Gordoa Teresa , Jimenez-Fonseca Paula , Martinez-Trufero Javier , Navarro Miguel , Porras Ignacio , Rubió-Casadevall Jordi , Arregui Valles Marta , Basté Neus , Hernando Jorge , Iglesias Docampo Lara
Published: September 2024

Thyroid cancer (TC) represents 3% of global cancer incidence. Recent changes have optimized treatment decisions based on risk assessment, molecular profiling, and imaging assessment, leading the development of targeted agents that have modified the natural history of this disease. This increasing complexity on treatment options requires careful assessment at the different stages of the disease to provide the most suitable approach from diagnosis to long-term follow-up. This guideline aims to offer a comprehensive and practical overview on the current status and last updates of TC management.
Increasing Police Presence: Examining Race, Ethnicity, and Perceived Neighborhood Disadvantage as Correlates of Support
Authors: Metcalfe Christi , Bolaji Qassim
Published: September 2024

Given its empirical and public support, increasing police presence seems to be a viable preventive policy option for police agencies. However, the theoretical and empirical literature is not clear on whether this support would vary along race/ethnicity and perceived neighborhood disadvantage, which is relevant given that policies of this kind would likely have a greater impact on disadvantaged communities of color. Using survey data from a national sample, we found that racial and ethnic identity were unrelated to support for increased police presence, while perceived neighborhood disorder was related to greater support for police presence. We also found that neighborhood disorder, social cohesion, and informal social control were indirectly related to support for increased police presence through perceptions of police legitimacy and fear of crime, demonstrating some evidence of the overpolicing-underpolicing paradox in disadvantaged communities. Policy implications of these findings are discussed.
Recent advancements in new tracers from first-in-human studies
Authors: Nakamoto Yuji , Inui Yoshitaka , Hotta Masatoshi , Wakabayashi Hiroshi , Hanaoka Hirofumi
Published: September 2024

Recent advancements in the development of positron emission tomography (PET) tracers have significantly enhanced our ability to image neuroinflammatory processes and neurotransmitter systems, which are vital for understanding and treating neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders. Similarly, innovative tracers in oncology provide detailed images of the metabolic and molecular characteristics of tumors, which are crucial for tailoring targeted therapies and monitoring responses, including radiotherapy. Notable advancements include programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1)-targeting agents for lung cancer, prostate-specific membrane antigen-based tracers for prostate cancer, chemokine receptor-targeting agents for hematological malignancies, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-targeting tracers for various cancers, Claudin 18 based tracers for epithelial tumors, glutamine tracers for colorectal cancer, and ascorbic acid analogs for assessing cancer metabolism and therapy efficacy. Additionally, novel tracers have been developed for non-neurological and non-oncological applications, including adrenal imaging, amyloidosis, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. This overview focuses on the newly developed tracers, particularly those used in neurology and oncology.
On Zero Entropy Homeomorphisms of the Pseudo-arc
Authors: Činč Jernej
Published: September 2024

In this paper we study interval maps f with zero topological entropy that are crooked; i.e. whose inverse limit with f as the single bonding map is the pseudo-arc. We show that there are uncountably many zero entropy pairwise non-conjugate zero entropy crooked interval maps with different sets of fixed points. We also show that there are uncountably many crooked maps that are pairwise non-conjugate and have exactly two fixed points. Furthermore, we provide a characterization of crooked interval maps that are under or above the diagonal.
Scaling up public transport usage: a systematic literature review of service quality, satisfaction and attitude towards bus transport systems in developing countries
Authors: Sogbe Eugene , Susilawati Susilawati , Pin Tan Chee
Published: September 2024

Urban sprawl driven by urbanisation has contributed to a sharp rise in privately owned vehicles and competition for restricted resource space. The utilisation of private vehicles has increased, particularly in developing countries, and this phenomenon leads to many negative externalities, including traffic congestion and emissions. To encourage the use of sustainable modes such as public transport, it is essential for policymakers and transport authorities to carefully examine the determinants influencing public transport usage and apply successful policies and procedures. This review offers a valuable understanding of the contemporary knowledge regarding the determinants influencing bus transport usage. It systematically reviews 104 papers published since 2000 on service quality, satisfaction, and attitudes towards bus transport. The review shows that safety, security, comfort, reliability and accessibility are the most substantial determinants shaping users' views on service quality and satisfaction. This is particularly evident in situations like waiting at the bus stop, being on board the bus, and specific instances while walking to their destination. The results indicate that challenges with first-mile and last-mile connectivity are apparent, and further exploration in the context of developing countries is needed to understand these challenges, necessitating further investigation. It also demonstrates instrumental aspects such as convenience and social-symbolic aspects such as social standing, influencing attitudes towards public transport usage. It concludes by suggesting potential paths for future research and discusses the impacts of the results on policy decisions.
Main causes of producing honey bee colony losses in southwestern Spain: a novel machine learning-based approach
Authors: García-Vicente Eduardo José , Benito-Murcia María , Martín Domínguez María , Pérez Pérez Ana , González Sánchez María , Rey-Casero Ismael , Alonso Rodríguez Juan Manuel , Barquero-Pérez Óscar , Risco Pérez David
Published: September 2024

Honey bees assume a pivotal role as primary pollinators, but they are currently facing a growing crisis of colony losses on a global scale. This sector is important for generating essential products, preserving ecosystems, and crop pollination. This study includes the sampling of 179 beehives from three apiaries in the traditional beekeeping area of Extremadura (Spain) vital beekeeping sector and was carried out between 2020 and 2021 using the decision trees-based model. Some studies have tried to identify the primary causative factors of this issue. However, it is insufficient because the approach disregards potential nonlinear interactions among the various factors. For this reason, through meticulous exploration of different causative factors including Varroa destructor, Nosema ceranae, Deformed Wing Virus (DWV), Chronic Bee Paralysis Virus (CBPV), and strength factors, our study employed for first time machine learning methods to identify the most important variables generating colony loss. Our analysis underscores the importance of brood levels (operculated and open), pollen and honey, Varroa destructor infestation, virus (DWV), and honey bee populations as key determinants of colony survival. These findings hold promise for guiding efficacious colony management strategies and underscoring the latent potential of machine-learning applications in the realm of beekeeping.
Alternative Strategy for Development of Dielectric Calcium Copper Titanate-Based Electrolytes for Low-Temperature Solid Oxide Fuel Cells
Authors: Rauf Sajid , Hanif Muhammad Bilal , Tayyab Zuhra , Veis Matej , Yousaf Shah M. A. K. , Mushtaq Naveed , Medvedev Dmitry , Tian Yibin , Xia Chen , Motola Martin , Zhu Bin
Published: September 2024

The development of low-temperature solid oxide fuel cells (LT-SOFCs) is of significant importance for realizing the widespread application of SOFCs. This has stimulated a substantial materials research effort in developing high oxide-ion conductivity in the electrolyte layer of SOFCs. In this context, for the first time, a dielectric material, CaCu3Ti4O12 (CCTO) is designed for LT-SOFCs electrolyte application in this study. Both individual CCTO and its heterostructure materials with a p-type Ni0.8Co0.15Al0.05LiO2−δ (NCAL) semiconductor are evaluated as alternative electrolytes in LT-SOFC at 450–550 °C. The single cell with the individual CCTO electrolyte exhibits a power output of approximately 263 mW cm−2 and an open-circuit voltage (OCV) of 0.95 V at 550 °C, while the cell with the CCTO–NCAL heterostructure electrolyte capably delivers an improved power output of approximately 605 mW cm−2 along with a higher OCV over 1.0 V, which indicates the introduction of high hole-conducting NCAL into the CCTO could enhance the cell performance rather than inducing any potential short-circuiting risk. It is found that these promising outcomes are due to the interplay of the dielectric material, its structure, and overall properties that led to improve electrochemical mechanism in CCTO–NCAL. Furthermore, density functional theory calculations provide the detailed information about the electronic and structural properties of the CCTO and NCAL and their heterostructure CCTO–NCAL. Our study thus provides a new approach for developing new advanced electrolytes for LT-SOFCs.
The ammonite faunas of the upper Hypselocyclum to Divisum zones (Lower Kimmeridgian, Upper Jurassic) at Małogoszcz, Holy Cross Mts., central Poland: their stratigraphical interpretation and evolutionary development
Authors: Wierzbowski Andrzej
Published: September 2024

The transgressive succession of deposits of the upper Lower Kimmeridgian at Małogoszcz in the south-western margin of the Holy Cross Mts. in central Poland yielded diversified faunas of ammonites. The commonly represented Submediterranean ataxioceratid ammonites include the last members of Ataxioceras in the Hypselocyclum Zone and the assemblage of various Crussoliceras, Garnierisphinctes and Progeronia, mostly developed in the Divisum Zone, and associated upwards (Uhlandi Subzone) with aspidoceratids (Pseudhimalayites). A few typical Mediterranean ammonites (Nebrodites, Presimoceras, Idoceras, Taramelliceras) are indicative of the Herbichi Zone. The Subboreal ammonites include mostly Eurasenia and Involuticeras in addition to some Rasenia and Rasenioides of the uppermost Cymodoce Zone, corresponding to the Askepta Subzone. The changes in composition of ammonite faunas and comparison with the coeval faunas of other areas of Europe give indications on the evolutionary development of some Ataxioceratidae and Aulacostephanidae at the end of Early Kimmeridgian. The development of the Crussoliceras, Garnierisphinctes and Progeronia, having possibly their roots in the Mediterranean areas, was strictly correlated with the overall transgression and oscillations of sea-level controlled possibly by climatic eccentricity cycles of the northern Tethyan shelf. This resulted also in the decline of older Ataxioceras and its nearby allies. The indigenous lineage of Aulacostephanidae includes the transition from Eurasenia to “Pararasenia”. The development from Rasenioides to Aulacostephanoides occurred mostly in the Subboreal areas – although some late representatives of Rasenioides like R. moeschi reached the area of study. The existence of an independent lineage leading from Rasenia involuta to heavily-ribbed Aulacostephanoides/Aulacostephanus is also suggested.
The geopolitics of vaccine media representation in Orbán’s Hungary—an AI-supported sentiment analysis
Authors: Sebők Miklós , Ring Orsolya , Kis Márk György , Bánóczy Martin Balázs , Dinnyés Ágnes
Published: September 2024

Extant studies on the European media coverage of the COVID-19 pandemic generally posit a linear relationship between the severity of the public health emergency and the volume of media reports. However, domestic politics and geopolitics may also impact the saliency, distribution, and sentiment of coverage in different outlets. Under Viktor Orbán’s illiberal leadership, Hungary sought deals for ventilators and vaccines from China and Russia—a deviation from joint European procurements. In this article, we conduct a content analysis of pro-government and Orbán-critical media to examine differences in their treatment of Eastern and Western vaccines. We relied on state-of-the-art deep learning analysis (a branch of articifial intelligence) to investigate all COVID-19-related articles (N = 72,339) published on three major Hungarian news portals between March 2020 and March 2022. We used a new fine-tuned BERT model for emotion analysis, the categories of which have been aggregated into three sentiment labels (positive, negative, and neutral). Our sentiment analysis results show a positive correlation between the number of sentences mentioning at least one of the vaccines and the (first) shots administered for only one outlet out of three. The pro-government portal in the sample showed more positivity towards Western vaccines than a hard-right, anti-government one. This latter also produced more positive reports concerning the Russian vaccine. These results shed light on the complex geopolitics of vaccine narratives in Hungarian media. Our research contributes not only to our understanding of illiberal media systems but also by sharing a new public dataset and a fine-tuned large language model that is applicable to alternative research questions and designs.
Leveraging multi-output modelling for CIELAB using colour difference formula towards sustainable textile dyeing
Authors: Chen Zheyuan , Liu Jian , Li Jian , Yuan Mukun , Yu Guangping
Published: September 2024

Textile dyeing requires optimizing combinations of ingredients and process parameters to achieve target colour properties. Modelling the complex relationships between these factors and the resulting colour is challenging. In this case, a physics-informed approach for multi-output regression to model CIELAB colour values from dyeing ingredient and process inputs is proposed. Leveraging attention mechanisms and multi-task learning, the model outperforms baseline methods at predicting multiple colour outputs jointly. Specifically, the Transformer model’s attention mechanism captures the complex interactions between dyeing ingredients and process parameters, while the multi-task learning framework exploits the intrinsic correlations among the L*, a*, and b* dimensions of the CIELAB colour space. In addition, the incorporation of physical knowledge through a physics-informed loss function integrates the CMC colour difference formula. This loss function, along with the attention mechanisms, enables the model to learn the nuanced relationships between the dyeing process variables and the final colour output, thereby improving the overall prediction accuracy. This reduces trial-and-error costs and resource waste, contributing to environmental sustainability by minimizing water and energy consumption and chemical emissions.
Best available technology options for the mitigation of environmental impacts in waste plastics
Authors: Li Jiyang , Jiang Hanyi , Zhou Qian , Qi Cheng , Palocz-Andresen Michael , Zhu Yue , Bi Zhujie , Cao Weihua , Yuan Zhihang , Lou Ziyang
Published: September 2024

The best available technology (BAT) for waste plastics relies on their components and the right technology employed, while the quality of waste plastics depends on the original plastics and the source separation processes simultaneously. In this study, the quality of waste plastics and the potential recycling processes, including recycling granulation, pyrolysis to oil, Green-RDF and incineration technology, were co-related from the economic and technical perspective. A database was established for waste plastic components, considering factors such as plastic fraction, waste composition, moisture content, and impurity rate. The corresponding environmental impacts for the typical resource processes were assessed by life cycle analysis (LCA) and cost–benefit analysis combined. It was found that around 23% ± 1% of waste plastics in residual waste had the resource potential if the stricter classification criteria of plastic wastes were adopted, such as the components, moisture content less than 5% or 8% and impurity rate less than 8%. Pyrolysis to oil had the best environmental benefits in GWP100, reaching -1,683.51 kg CO2 equivalent (CO2-eq), determined as the best method for high-value plastics, and incineration depicted poor environmental benefits for low-value plastics. The net income of recycling granulation for middle-value waste plastics would achieve 1383 ± 35 yuan/ton through cost–benefit analysis, which represented the optimal economic benefits. CO2 emissions for waste plastics could be mitigated around 29.74% by matching BATs compared to the current management system, which would provide policymakers with proper recommendations in terms of the adaptability of waste plastic sources and technologies.
What counts as ‘evidence’ in literacy education?
Authors: Derewianka Beverly , Harper Helen , Parkin Bronwyn , Acevedo Claire , Rose David , Dare Brian , Brisk Maria Estela , Jones Pauline
Published: September 2024

A recent issue of the Australian Journal of Language and Literacy included an article reporting on a systematic narrative review of the research literature that indicated that there was insufficient evidence to conclude whether genre theory and systemic functional linguistics either ‘worked’ or ‘did not work’. The criteria used to evaluate these studies excluded any study that did not conform to the ‘gold standard’ associated with experimental research such as randomised controlled trials. In response to this provocative finding, a group of SFL researchers decided to examine just what counts as evidence of quality literacy research these days. In this paper, we question the overreliance on experimental research at the expense of other methods. We illustrate this with a sample of notable studies that do not meet experimental criteria, but which nevertheless have made a significant contribution to school literacy outcomes in Australia and elsewhere.
Spatial impulse response analysis and ensemble learning for efficient precision level sensing
Authors: Cetkin Berkay , Begic Fazlic Lejla , Ueding Kristof , Machhamer Rüdiger , Guldner Achim , Creutz Lars , Naumann Stefan , Dartmann Guido
Published: September 2024

In this paper, we propose an innovative method for determining the fill level of containers, such as trash cans, addressing a critical aspect of waste management. The method combines spatial impulse response analysis with machine learning (ML) techniques, offering a unique and effective approach for sound-based classification that can be extended to various domains beyond waste management. By employing a buzzer-generated sine sweep signal, we create a distinctive signature specific to the fill level of the waste container. This signature, once accurately decoded, is then interpreted by a specially developed ensemble learning algorithm. Our approach achieves a classification accuracy of over 90% when implemented locally on a development board, optimizing operational efficiencies and eliminating the need to delegate complex classification tasks to external entities. Using low-cost and energy-efficient hardware components, our method offers a cost-effective approach that contributes to sustainable and efficient waste management practices, providing a reliable and locally deployable solution.
Changes in functional connectivity and suicidality after electroconvulsive therapy in depressed patients
Authors: Wu Han , Wang Xue , Wang Dan , Wang Wei , Wang Wen , Jin Wen-qing , Jiang Wei , Tang Yi-lang , Ren Yan-ping , Yang Chun-lin
Published: September 2024

Objective

Suicidality is a common and serious symptom of depression and patients with depression and suicidality often respond to electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), but the mechanism of its effect is poorly understood. We used resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) to explore changes in brain connectivity before and after ECT in depressed patients with suicidality.

Methods

Twenty-three depressed patients with suicidality underwent rs-fMRI at baseline and after 8–12 ECT sessions. Thirty-two age-, sex-, and education-matched healthy controls (HCs) underwent rs-fMRI once. We used functional connectivity (FC) analysis to identify brain regions with altered connectivity in patients compared to HCs and assess changes in FC before and after ECT. We also assessed the clinical symptoms using the Hamilton Depression Scale, 17-item (HAMD-17), and Beck Scale for Suicide Ideation (BSSI).

Results

Compared to HCs, at baseline, patients had reduced FC between the left orbitofrontal cortex (OFC_ Ant_L) and left angular gyrus (Angular_L) (t = 3.849, P < 0.05) with OFC_Ant_L as ROI. With left superior frontal gyrus (Frontal_sup_L) as ROI, patients also had reduced FC between Frontal_sup_L and left superior medial frontal gyrus, medial orbital (Frontal_Med_Orb_L) and left precuneus (Precuneus_L) (t = 3.650, P < 0.05), and increased FC between Frontal_sup_L and right middle frontal gyrus (Frontal_Mid_R) (t = -4.220, P < 0.05). After ECT, with Frontal_sup_L as ROI, patients showed increased FC between Frontal_sup_L and Angular_L after ECT (t = -3.982, P < 0.05) and decreased FC between Frontal_sup_L and right superior and inferior parietal gyrus (Parietal_Sup&Inf_R). In ECT responders, the change in FC between Frontal_sup_L and Angular_L was negatively correlated with the change of the score of BSSI (r = -0.645, P = 0.042), and the change in FC between Frontal_sup_L and Parietal_Sup&Inf_R was positively correlated with the change of the score of BSSI (r = 0.714, P = 0.023). There was no correlation between changes in FC with changes in HAMD-17 score (all P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that FC between Frontal_sup_L and Angular_L, and FC between Frontal_sup_L and Parietal_Sup&Inf_R may be involved in the mechanisms by which ECT exerts its effects on suicidality in patients with depression. Our findings provide insights into the neural underpinnings of ECT and may inform the development of more targeted novel therapeutic strategies for suicidality.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR2100048182, Registered 04 July 2021, www.chictr.org.cn
Mind, Liangzhi, and Qi in Wang Yangming’s view that “nothing is external to the mind”
Authors: Zheng Zemian
Published: September 2024

Although I agree with Jeeloo Liu that Wang Yangming is not a subjective idealist, this does not rule other possibilities of idealism. Wang Yangming equates the mind to Dao and equates liangzhi to the Dao of Change. This suggests that the mind is not just a subjective mind. It can denote the all-encompassing universal mind. In his “blossoming tree” dialogue about the theme “nothing is external to the mind,” Wang Yangming alludes to the Book of Change. The underlying idea is that there is an undifferentiated unity before the calculative deliberation divides the subject and object. This idea of oneness also underlies Wang Yangming’s view of qi. I have reservations about using “naturalism” and “realism” to categorize Wang Yangming’s philosophy.
Simulation of thermal radiation effects on the thermal properties of parietodynamic walls using an innovative model
Authors: Dong Xianzhang , Lin Baochen , Xiao Huigang , Liu Min
Published: September 2024

The parietodynamic wall, a type of dynamic insulation, has been recognized as an effective technology to reduce energy loss in buildings by recovering heat energy through forced convection. However, current research on the thermal performance of parietodynamic walls has overlooked the influence of thermal radiation, a crucial factor in energy transfer within the air layers of these walls. To bridge this gap, an innovative simulation model was developed and experimentally validated. Employing simulation methods, we investigated the impact of thermal radiation on the thermal behavior of parietodynamic walls under various influencing factors. Our findings reveal that thermal radiation markedly increases heat loss. Specifically, at an emissivity of 1, thermal radiation contributes up to 80.7% to the heat transfer coefficient (HTC) of the parietodynamic wall. Moreover, for a parietodynamic wall without insulation, the HTC of this wall will increase by more than 268% when thermal radiation is taken into account, compared to when it is not considered. These revelations deepen our comprehension of the role of thermal radiation in parietodynamic walls and offer valuable guidance for the development of more energy-efficient buildings.
Bidirectional evaluation and differentiation analysis of marine economic resilience in China
Authors: Zhou Yan , Li Hui
Published: September 2024

With the continuous improvement of the marine economy, the role of marine economic resilience is becoming ever more prominent. This study evaluates China’s marine economic resilience based on a bidirectional evaluation index system, and analyzes spatiotemporal characteristics and regional differences. The results show that: (1) marine economic resilience is increasing in the system object dimension and the resilience attribute dimension in China. Strengthening the protection of marine resources and the environment is important for improving marine economic resilience; (2) the development of marine economic resilience among 11 coastal provinces is unbalanced, forming a three-polar pattern with Shandong as the core in the north, Shanghai as the core in the east, and Guangdong as the core in the south; (3) the difference between the northern marine economic circle and the southern marine economic circle is the main reason for the overall difference.