bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advances in In Situ TEM for Dynamic Studies of Carbon‐Based Anodes in Alkali Metal‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Cui Jinchao , Zhang Jiyun , Jing Jingyi , Wang Ya , Du Gaohui , Yang Yongzhen , Yan Lingpeng , Su Qingmei
Published: November 2024

High‐energy‐density anode materials are crucial for achieving high performance alkali metal‐ion batteries (AMIBs). In situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM) enables real‐time observation of microstructural changes in electrode materials and interfaces during charging/discharging, crucial for designing high‐performance anodes. This paper highlights and reviews the dynamic studies of the relationship between the structure and the electrochemical performance of carbon‐based composite materials used as anodes in AMIBs by in situ TEM. First, the in situ TEM technique and cell construction method are introduced, followed by an overview of in situ TEM integrates with other advanced measurement techniques. Second, the fundamental working principles of various AMIBs and the energy storage mechanisms of anode materials are explained, along with the achievable functions of in situ TEM in AMIBs. Third, from different carbon matrix structures, including carbon‐supported, carbon‐embedded, carbon‐coated, carbon‐encapsulated, and hybrid carbon‐composite structures, in situ dynamic studies on the electrochemical behaviors of these carbon‐based anode materials by TEM are covered in depth. Finally, a summary of the design ideas and the technical application of in situ TEM for carbon‐based anode composites is provided, followed by a suggestion for current challenges and future research paths.
Cation‐Vacancy Engineering Modulated Perovskite Oxide for Boosting Electrocatalytic Conversion of Polysulfides
Authors: Bai Zhe , Wang Zhenhua , Wang Tan , Wu Zeyu , Gao Xiaotian , Bai Yu , Wang Guoxiu , Sun Kening
Published: November 2024

Lithium‐sulfur batteries face challenges like polysulfide shuttle and slow conversion kinetics, hindering their practical applications in renewable energy storage and electric vehicles. Herein, a solution to solve this issue is reported by using a cation vacancy engineering strategy with rational synthesis of La‐deficient LaCoO3 (LCO‐VLa). The introduction of cation vacancies in LCO‐VLa modifies the geometric structure of coordinating atoms, exposing Co‐rich surface with more catalytically active surfaces. Meanwhile, the d‐band center of LCO‐VLa shifts toward the Fermi level, enhancing polysulfide adsorption. Furthermore, multivalent cobalt ions (Co3+/Co4+) induced by charge compensation enhance the electrical conductivity of LCO‐VLa, accelerating electron transfer processes and improving catalytic performance. Theoretical calculations and experimental characterizations demonstrate that La‐deficient LCO‐VLa effectively suppresses the polysulfide shuttle, reduces the energy barrier for polysulfide conversion, and accelerates redox reaction kinetics. LCO‐VLa‐based batteries demonstrate exceptional rate performance and cycling stability, retaining 70% capacity after nearly 500 cycles at 1.0 C, with a minimal decay rate of 0.055% per cycle. These findings highlight the significance of cation vacancy engineering for exploring precise structure‐activity relationships during polysulfides conversion, facilitating the rational design of catalysts at the atomic level for lithium‐sulfur batteries.
High‐Temperature Growth of Chirality‐Enriched, Highly Crystalline Carbon Nanotubes for Efficient Single‐Chirality Separation
Authors: Han Fangqian , Li Linhai , Qian Liu , Gao Yan , Wu Qianru , Wang Zhen , Liu Huaping , Zhang Jin , He Maoshuai
Published: November 2024

There has been significant interest in producing single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) with specific chirality to ensure consistent and predictable performance. However, chirality‐selective growth has traditionally required low reaction temperatures, causing SWNTs with low graphitization degrees. In this work, a magnesia supported cobalt catalyst (Co/MgO) is introduced for chemical vapor deposition growth of SWNTs with a narrow chirality distribution even at a high temperature of 900 °C, which promotes enhanced graphitization of SWNT walls. The achievement is attributed to the strong metal‐support interactions that prevent catalyst particle sintering under harsh reaction conditions. The resulting SWNTs provide fundamental raw materials for high‐efficiency single‐chirality separation. Because of the relatively large chiral differences between the major species and their narrow chirality distribution, the study can readily isolate six distinct (n, m) SWNT types including (6, 5), (8, 3), (9, 2), (7, 5), (7, 6), and (8, 4), with purities exceeding 91% by gel chromatography. Compared with commercially HiPco‐ and CoMoCAT SG65i‐ SWNTs, the separation efficiency and yield are greatly improved. This work demonstrates the growth of high‐quality SWNTs with a narrow chirality distribution, paving the way toward their efficient single‐chirality separation.
High Thermal Conductivity Polyelectrolyte Nanocomposite Electrical Insulation Thin Films
Authors: Iverson Ethan T. , Legendre Hudson , Chakravarty Sourav , Zhang Shiyu , Fisher Sarah G. , Smith Dallin L. , Schmieg Kendra , Ge Yanxiu , Antao Dion S. , Shamberger Patrick J. , Grunlan Jaime C.
Published: November 2024

High‐power electronics require thin, conformal insulation that resists dielectric breakdown, while promoting removal of heat from the device. Recently, polyelectrolytes have shown promise in creating dielectric thin films, but their thermal conductivity remains relatively low (<1 W m−1 K−1). In this work, the layer‐by‐layer (LbL) assembly of polyethylenimine, mica clay, poly(acrylic acid), and hexagonal boron nitride is exploited to create a thin film dielectric material with relatively high thermal conductivity (through‐plane thermal conductivity of 1.87 ± 0.03 W m−1 K−1) and strong electrical insulation (breakdown strength of 152 kV mm−1). High thermal conductivity is obtained due to mica and hexagonal boron nitride nanoplatelets stretching through multiple layers. The performance benefits of this nanocomposite are demonstrated with a partial motor, where the nanocomposite greatly reduces the peak temperature of the motor when compared to state‐of‐the‐art polyimide insulation. This remarkable combination of thermal conductivity and dielectric breakdown strength represents a significant advancement in the electrical and thermal protection of high voltage devices.
Modification of Metal Microelectrodes with Vertical Graphene Structure for Enhanced Electrochemical Detection of Dopamine
Authors: Gao Lukang , Huang Shuang , Li Xiaotong , Liu Zhengjie , Huang Xinshuo , Li Yan , Chen Hui‐jiuan , Lin Xudong , Liu Jing , Xie Xi
Published: November 2024

Detection of dopamine (DA) concentration can reflect important aspects of human brain health, including the nervous system and endocrine. Among various methods for detecting DA concentration, electrochemical detection is a promising method to allow in situ and real‐time sensing. Besides, nanomaterials modification on microelectrodes is beneficial to enhance the electrochemical detection performance. In this study, microwire electrodes are modified with vertical graphene (VG) through plasma‐enhanced chemical vapor deposition, which is based on 4 types of electrode substrates (Au, Ti, Ag, and W). The sensing performance of DA concentrations is explored with different electrochemical methods, including EIS, CV, DPV, SWV, LSV, and NPV. The modification of VG improved the sensitivity of both Au and Ti microelectrodes and decreased the oxidation peak potentials. VG‐modified Au microelectrode exhibited the most pronounced reduction (by 50.8%) in the peak potential of the DPV curve, while VG‐modified Ti microelectrode showed the most improvement of the sensitivity (by 9140%) in SWV detection. In summary, the results demonstrated that functionalization with VG is an effective way to improve the electrochemical sensing capability among different types of electrode substrates. This is beneficial for developing high‐performance microelectrodes for in vivo detection of DA concentrations.
3D Topological Toron‐Like Domains in Magnetic Nanoparticles: A Micromagnetic Simulation
Authors: Dong Shouzhe , Liang Deshan , Guo Changqing , Wang Jing , Huang Houbing
Published: November 2024

3D topological textures have attracted significant attention from researchers due to their distinctive spatial arrangements and intriguing physical properties. However, investigating their topological domain structures at the submicron scale (<1000 nm) proves exceedingly elusive and under‐explored. Here, the size‐dependent behaviors of non‐uniform magnetic domain structures within submicron‐sized FeNi magnetic nanoparticles by micromagnetic simulations are systematically explored. Notably, the existence of magnetic toron‐like structures at the submicron scale and discuss their spatial arrangement and topological properties are identified. Furthermore, critical transition sizes are calculated under various aspect ratios, and the domain structure phase diagram based on nanoparticle size and aspect ratio is constructed. Through visualizations of domain flipping processes and dynamic energy changes, the stable existence of toron‐like magnetic configuration resulting from the competition among demagnetization energy, magnetic anisotropy energy, and magnetic exchange energy are unveiled. Finally, the utilization of core‐shell structures to achieve the stable existence of 3D topological textures are proposed. This work provides important theoretical insights for understanding and designing multi‐domain structures of FeNi nanoparticles at the submicron scale, as well as for constructing topological textures.
Deciphering the prognostic landscape of triple‐negative breast cancer: A focus on immune‐related hub genes and therapeutic implications
Authors: Krishnamoorthy HemaNandini Rajendran , Karuppasamy Ramanathan
Published: November 2024

Triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC), known for its hostile nature and limited treatment modalities, has spurred researchers to explore novel approaches for enhancing clinical outcomes. Here, the study aimed to analyze transcriptomics data to identify immune‐related hub genes associated with TNBC that might serve as prognostic biomarkers. Initially, we determined genes that were differentially expressed between TNBC and normal tissues by integrating microarray and RNA sequencing data. Then, through protein–protein interaction and module analysis, we identified five putative hub genes: AURKA, CCNB1, CDCA8, GAPDH, and TOP2A. Subsequently, gene ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analyses revealed that the hub genes were primarily involved in the progesterone‐mediated oocyte maturation signaling pathway and oocyte meiosis. Additionally, we observed that these five hub genes were significantly elevated at both protein and mRNA levels in TNBC tissues and contributed to worse survival. Furthermore, the expression of these hub genes exhibited a strong positive association with immune‐invading cells such as CD8 T cells, CD4 T cells, and dendritic cells. The analysis of the regulatory network revealed three transcription factors (YBX‐1, E2F1, and E2F3) and three posttranscriptional regulators (hsa‐mir‐25‐3p, hsa‐mir‐92a‐3p, and hsa‐let‐7b‐5p) of hub genes. Finally, we explored potential drug candidates for the hub genes using Drug‐Gene Interaction Database and discovered that there are no FDA‐approved drugs for CCNB1 and CDCA8, highlighting a promising area for future research. Taken together, our results will be of immense importance in addressing the intricacies of TNBC.
A Retrospective Evaluation of Ototoxicity Monitoring in a Cohort of Pediatric Patients With Solid Tumors, Treated in the Dutch National Cancer Center
Authors: Diepstraten Franciscus A. , Bertram Odette M. M. , Helleman Hiske W. , Boerboom Ralf A. , van Grotel Martine , Zsíros József , Tytgat Godelieve A. M. , van Tinteren Harm , Stokroos Robert J. , Janssens Geert O. , Hoetink Alex E. , van den Heuvel‐Eibrink Marry M. , Meijer Annelot J. M.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Ototoxicity is an adverse effect of childhood cancer treatment with a negative impact on speech‐language development and quality of life. This study aimed to retrospectively assess ototoxicity monitoring in a national cohort of pediatric patients with solid tumors, examining the frequency and determinants associated with hearing loss (HL).

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included 305 patients treated between 2015 and 2020 at the Princess Máxima Center. Patients receiving platinum agents, head and neck radiotherapy, and/or ear‐nose‐throat surgery were analyzed. Electronic patient files provided demographic, clinical, and audiological data. HL was defined as Muenster ≥ 2b or SIOP ≥ 2 grade. Associations between clinical characteristics and HL occurrence were analyzed using logistic regression analysis.

Results

Audiological monitoring was performed at baseline (62.6%), during treatment (79.0%), and at the end of treatment (82.1%). Post treatment, 51.2% and 36.5% experienced Muenster and SIOP‐defined HL, respectively. Multivariable analyses revealed that age at diagnosis (OR 0.9, 95% CI 0.9–1.0), total cumulative dose cisplatin per 100 mg/m2 (OR 1.6, 95% CI 1.4–2.0), and vincristine treatment (OR 3.3, 95% CI 1.4–7.8) remained significantly associated with Muenster grade ≥ 2b HL. Age at diagnosis in years (OR 0.9, 95% CI 0.8–1.0), total cumulative dose cisplatin per 100 mg/m2 (OR 1.5, 95% CI 1.2–1.8), and male sex (OR 2.7, 95% CI 1.4–5.3) were associated with SIOP ≥ 2 HL.

Conclusion

This study shows that more than half of the children treated with ototoxic cancer therapies develop HL by the end of treatment. Therefore, audiological monitoring during and after treatment is essential. Improved insight into clinical determinants aids in identifying patients at high risk for HL, who may benefit from prevention strategies that are currently being implemented.
The Prognostic Significance of Tumor Budding and Cell Nest Size in Laryngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Anousha Kiana , Shekari Mohammad Moin , Mirzaian Elham , Yousefi Tahere , Beheshti Amin , Lotfi Maryam
Published: November 2024

Background

Laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) is a commonly occurring malignancy in the head and neck region. However, due to the heterogeneity of primary tumor sites, tumor behavior, and molecular mechanisms, there is currently no consensus on the accuracy of clinicopathological prognostic factors for individual cases. Tumor histopathologic behavior remains a crucial factor in predicting aggressiveness. Recent studies have shown that peritumoral tumor budding (TB) combined with cell nest size (CNS) is a reliable marker for predicting lymph node metastasis, advanced cancer prognosis, and therapeutic response in SCCs of different origins.

Aims

This study aims to investigate the relationship between TB and CNS in the context of nodal metastasis and overall prognosis in patients diagnosed with LSCC. Our objective is to establish the significance of TB and CNS status as a cost‐effective, easily assessed, and highly reliable prognostic factor among this patient population.

Methods and results

In this retrospective cross‐sectional study, we analyzed 128 LSCC cases that underwent total laryngectomy at Amir Alam Hospital. We evaluated TB and CNS based on the Boxberg et al. study. Our study demonstrated a significant correlation between TB, and nodal involvement (p = 0.015), vascular invasion (p = 0.035), and mortality rate (p = 0.001), as well as a significant statistical correlation between high TB and extra‐laryngeal extension (p = 0.006), clinical stage (p = 0.011), and mortality rate (p = 0.001). Moreover, small nest size was also associated with the clinical stage (p = 0.047), extra‐laryngeal extension (p = 0.015), and mortality rate (p < 0.001). Based on our results, TB, CNS, and clinical stage are independent prognostic factors for mortality rate and are correlated with disease‐specific survival.

Conclusion

Given the effect of TB and CNS on the overall prognosis and survival of patients with LSCC, evaluating these two factors on routine H&E microscopic examination of LSCC specimens is recommended to facilitate individualized risk assessment and treatment planning.
Undifferentiated Embryonal Sarcoma of the Liver: First Case Reported in Central America
Authors: García Amilcar Antonio Alfaro , Fonseca Ludwing Bacon , del Rosario Romero Alvarez Maria
Published: November 2024

Background

Undifferentiated embryonal sarcoma of the liver (UESL) is a rare and aggressive mesenchymal tumor, typically occurring in children. It poses significant diagnostic challenges due to its atypical presentation and rarity in clinical practice.

Case

We report the first case in Central America of a 19‐year‐old female presenting with chronic abdominal pain and a liver mass. Imaging revealed a solid and cystic lesion in the liver, and a subsequent complete surgical resection confirmed the diagnosis of UESL. The patient received adjuvant chemotherapy and has been disease‐free for 34 months.

Conclusion

This case highlights the importance of complete surgical resection combined with chemotherapy to improve prognosis in UESL. Our findings emphasize the need to consider UESL in differential diagnoses of liver lesions, especially in regions where it has not been previously reported.
Doping Control Analysis of Total Carbon Dioxide (TCO2) in Equine Plasma by Headspace Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (HS‐GC/MS)
Authors: Kwok Karen Y. , Kwok Wai Him , Wan Terence S. M. , Brooks Lydia , Popot Marie‐Agnes , Jaubert Murielle , Bailly‐Chouriberry Ludovic , Heffron Brendan T. , Choo Chak Kwen , Tso Juanita , Tso Richard , McKenzie Bob , Selvadurai Naomi , Batty David , Gray Bob , Hudson Adam , Ragazzoni Stefania , Claudio Mariani , Ho Emmie N. M.
Published: November 2024

The use of alkalinising agents prior to racing for manipulating performance in the horse has been identified since the 1990s. To mitigate the risk, an international threshold for available carbon dioxide in equine plasma based on analyses using the Beckman Synchron EL‐ISE analyser was adopted in 1994 by the International Federation of Horseracing Authorities (IFHA) and revised from 37 to 36 mM in 2004. In 2009, the technical support for the above instrument was discontinued by its manufacturer. Based on the same measurement principle (i.e., ion selective electrode), the Beckman DxC600 analyser was selected as an alternative and validated against the protocol developed by the Association of Official Racing Chemists (AORC). Recently, the DxC600 analyser is also no longer supported by Beckman. Various alternative methods for measuring total carbon dioxide (TCO2) in plasma have been explored. Among these, a headspace gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (HS‐GC/MS) method was first reported by the Analytical Forensic Testing Laboratory (AFTL) in 2017. Methods based on the same measurement principle were later developed by different horseracing laboratories. With the objective of cross‐validating the new HS‐GC/MS methods and to establish an absolute (rather than instrument‐dependent or empirical) threshold, an international research collaboration was initiated among different racing laboratories. This paper describes the results of cross‐validation studies conducted in November 2019 and December 2022 using horse administration samples from Canada and France, respectively, the determination of a threshold based on population data, and some technical insights on the HS‐GC/MS methods.
Psychological Characteristics of Fathers of People With Bulimia Nervosa: A Systematic Review
Authors: Akkese M. N. , Keeler J. L. , Teh J. Y. , Treasure J. , Himmerich H.
Published: November 2024

Objective

Bulimia nervosa (BN) is a highly prevalent psychiatric disorder that has negative effects on the physical and psychological health of sufferers. Father‐specific factors have been understudied in the context of BN. This systematic review aims to understand the psychosocial and psychopathological features of fathers of people with BN and their associations with the offspring's outcomes.

Method

A literature search on APA PsycINFO, ISI Web of Science, PubMed, Google Scholar, ResearchGate, and Open Science Framework yielded 2421 studies. These papers were independently evaluated based on the eligibility criteria. 29 studies were included in this review. The Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Tools were used for the assessment of the methodological quality of the eligible studies.

Results

Across studies, no significant differences were found in perceptual body‐size distortion, self‐ideal discrepancy, eating‐/weight‐/body‐related attitudes, several personality and ED traits, and general psychological functioning between fathers of the BN group and those of the comparison groups. However, significant differences were found in certain psychological aspects (e.g., impulse regulation) and ED‐associated features (e.g., body dissatisfaction). Finally, significant relationships were found between the fathers' food attitudes, muscularity ratings, personality traits, and substance abuse and their offspring's risk of developing BN, greater body dissatisfaction, ED symptoms, and poor end‐of‐treatment outcome.

Discussion

Although the existing literature does not seem to strongly suggest a particular paternal factor pertaining to BN, several father‐specific variables may be associated with the offspring's BN symptomatology and related characteristics. Further research is necessary to clearly understand paternal features in the context of BN.
Multivariate linear regression to predict association of non‐invasive arterial stiffness with cardiovascular events
Authors: Darroudi Susan , Eslamiyeh Mostafa , Mansoori Amin , Nazar Eisa , Alinezhad‐Namaghi Maryam , Rezvani Reza , Ghayour‐Mobarhan Majid , Esmaily Habibollah , Moohebati Mohsen , Ferns Gordon A. , Ghamsary Mark
Published: November 2024

Background

Arterial stiffness is a crucial factor in determining an increase in systolic blood pressure and pulse pressure and can also predict the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD). The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between arterial stiffness and future CVD.

Methods

Out of the original 9704 participants in the Mashhad stroke and heart atherosclerotic disorder (MASHAD) cohort study, we randomly selected 363 healthy participants, 226 normal subjects (who reported symptoms of CVD but were not confirmed) and 292 individuals who had experienced a major cardiovascular event. The SphygmoCor XCEL System (AtCor Medical Incorporation) was utilized to measure pulse wave velocity (PWV), central augmentation index (CAI), cardio‐ankle vascular index (CAVI) and central aortic pressure (CAP). A multivariate multiple regression model was used to analyse the factors associated with non‐invasive arterial stiffness parameters (PWV, CAVI, CAP and CAI) after adjusting for potential confounders. All statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS 21 with a significance level of 0.05.

Results

The mean PWV was significantly higher in patients who had experienced a confirmed CVD event (P < 0.001). The multivariate multiple regression model results, after adjusting for potential confounders, showed a significant association between PWV and the CVD group (normal vs. healthy and event vs. healthy), as well as between hypertension and obesity with PWV and diabetes with CAI (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

PWV was found to be associated with CVD and its related risk factors such as diabetes, obesity and hypertension. It may be more effective than other arterial stiffness parameters in predicting CVD in clinical settings.
Bifidobacterium bifidum CCFM1163 Alleviates Cathartic Colon Through the Acetate/Propionate‐GPR41‐Gβγ Pathway
Authors: Huang Yin , Tang Nan , Xue Yifan , Li Jiazhen , Liu WenXu , Zhu Shengnan , Wang Linlin , Wang Gang , Chen Wei , Zhao Jianxin
Published: November 2024

Cathartic colon, a form of slow‐transit constipation, arises from prolonged stimulant laxative use and is associated with intestinal barrier impairment and enteric nervous system damage. We identified Bifidobacterium bifidum CCFM1163 as an effective agent for alleviating cathartic colon; however, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. This study first administered live, dead, and supernatant forms of CCFM1163 to cathartic colon mice, finding that only live bacteria were effective. Non‐targeted and targeted metabolomics analyses of mouse fecal metabolites highlighted short‐chain fatty acids (SCFAs) as key players. Animal experiments comparing the effects of major SCFAs revealed that acetic acid (AA) and propionic acid (PA) ameliorated cathartic colon (reduces intestinal transit time, p < 0.0001; increases fecal water content, p < 0.05). Inhibition studies using SCFAs receptor inhibitors and downstream inhibitors demonstrated that both HAS (a G protein‐coupled receptor 41 [GPR41] inhibitor) and Gallein (Gi protein βγ subunit [Gβγ] inhibitor) negated the reparative effects of CCFM1163 on the enteric nerves and intestinal barrier in cathartic colon mice. CCFM1163 was shown to modulate the intestinal flora, notably increasing Faecalibaculum, Candidatus Saccharimonas, and Prevotellaceae UCG‐001 (p < 0.05) and decreasing Escherichia, Clostridioides (p < 0.0001), while elevating AA and PA levels (p < 0.05). AAs act on the GPR41 receptor, activating the Gβγ, thus enhancing the intestinal barrier and reducing tissue inflammation. PA primarily repairs enteric nerves via GPR41‐Gβγ, promoting peristalsis. This study elucidates B. bifidum CCFM1163's potential mechanisms in cathartic colon relief and provides a theoretical basis for probiotic treatment.
Combining Volatility Forecasts of Duration‐Dependent Markov‐Switching Models
Authors: Turatti Douglas Eduardo , Mendes Fernando Henrique de Paula e Silva , Mazzeu João H. G.
Published: November 2024

Duration‐dependent Markov‐switching (DDMS) models require a user‐specified duration hyperparameter, for which there is currently no established procedure for estimation or testing. As a result, an ad‐hoc duration choice must be heuristically justified. This paper proposes a methodology for handling duration selection in DDMS models, with a focus on volatility forecasting. The main novelty lies in generating forecasts through model combination techniques. The idea is that the combined forecasts will be more robust to misspecification in selecting the duration structure, thus yielding more accurate forecasts. Additionally, the paper contributes to the literature by evaluating the out‐of‐sample volatility forecasting performance of DDMS models compared to benchmark conditional volatility models. Empirical analysis involves returns from three distinct asset classes: a cryptocurrency, a stock market index, and a foreign currency exchange rate. Various volatility proxies and robust loss functions are incorporated into our analysis. The results indicate that combined forecasts outperform individual models and, in some cases, are more accurate than GARCH and MS‐GARCH models. Furthermore, models with fixed duration typically underperform relative to the simple GARCH model, often resulting in test rejections.
Forest 5.0: Internet of Things‐Based Transformation of Forests
Authors: B Ravi Chandra , Roy Ajay , Vinay Phaninder , Kaur Navdeep , Jha Sudan , Pradhan Nihar Ranjan
Published: November 2024

The phrase “Modernization of forests” highlights the long‐term integration of modern technologies into forest management, aiming to enhance ecosystem observation, data collection, and analysis for exploration and improvement. Technologies like the Internet of Things (IoT), Wireless Sensor Networks (WSN), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and the IoT of Trees are key enablers of this shift. This research explores various technological interventions that could significantly benefit forest ecology, focusing on smart sensing, tracking, and analysis systems for detecting wildfires, illegal logging, and poaching. Simplified structures for tasks like vegetation analysis and forest fire predictions are proposed for future use without altering existing forest management systems. Additionally, the study addresses techniques to improve tribal livelihoods, promote small‐scale forest product marketing, and enhance wildlife monitoring. Key recommendations include establishing reliable wireless communication networks, continuous real‐time monitoring systems, and energy harvesting methods for effective digital forest management.
Internet of Things Integrated Deep‐Learning Algorithms Monitoring and Predicting Abnormalities in Agriculture Land
Authors: Selvam Prabu , Krishnamoorthy N. , Kumar S. Praveen , Lokeshwaran K. , Lokesh Madineni , Syamala Maganti , Vidhya R. G.
Published: November 2024

The Internet of Things (IoT) plays an essential role in the majority of the recent real‐time applications to speed up the process of immediate actions against abnormal behavior. Surveillance monitoring systems using CCTV and web cameras were used in earlier applications; nevertheless, they could only monitor and generate videos. The data transmission rate in the surveillance monitoring systems was poor due to the less‐performance internet technologies used in the earlier systems. Since they were restricted in data transmission speed, data size carried, communication distance, and sensing range. This paper integrates the fifth‐generation Internet technology (5G) IoT devices and sensors and deep‐learning algorithms to improve the efficiency of agriculture surveillance monitoring systems. It helps monitor, generate, and analyze the IoT data that can be processed immediately and predict the abnormal activities happening in agriculture. Landowners can take immediate action to save and recover the crops and their domestic animals concerning abnormal actions. This paper implements a Convolution Neural Network (CNN) algorithm for analyzing the IoT data and predicting abnormal activities. The experiment result is verified and compared with the other state‐of‐the‐art methods to evaluate the performance of the proposed CNN.
Enhanced 6G MIMO Signal Detection With Dynamic Sparse Region‐Based Convolutional Neural Network With White Shark Optimization
Authors: Solomon Arockiadass Sahaaya Arul Mary , Thangavel Nandhini , Prakash A John Felix , Raja Vinoth , Dhaigude Rahul
Published: November 2024

Multiple‐input multiple‐output (MIMO) technology is emerging as a promising choice for upcoming sixth‐generation (6G) and beyond‐fifth‐generation (B5G) networks due to the advancements in AI. However, the complexity of MIMO systems, which involve numerous antennas, results in a challenging detection process with high computational demands. To address the interference challenges inherent in large‐scale MIMO technology, this research proposes a 6G massive MIMO signal identification algorithm that integrates a Dynamic Sparse Region‐based Convolutional Neural Network (DSR‐CNN) with White Shark Optimization (WSO) into conventional MIMO receivers. The DSR‐CNN dynamically refines proposal boxes and features, enhancing detection accuracy by effectively handling complex signal patterns. The WSO optimizes the weight parameters within the R‐CNN, improving the algorithm's convergence toward optimal solutions. This hybrid methodology significantly reduces bit error rates (BER) and enhances detection performance, making it ideally suited to the advanced requirements of 6G networks. The proposed approach, DSR‐CNN‐WSO, not only improves accuracy and efficiency but also seamlessly integrates with existing MIMO systems, offering a robust solution for future wireless communication technologies. The proposed method achieves significantly lower BER (0.01) and Mean Square Error (MSE) (0.1), indicating more reliable bit detection and more accurate signal detection.
Surface performance characteristics of carpet‐mat stabilized cool‐season sod over drainage cells for temporary stadium installation
Authors: Bearss Ryan , Guevara Jackie Lyn , Kilby Jake , Rogers Evan , Rogers John N. , Fielder Rhys , Burbrink Conlan , Navarette Ivan , Williams Taylor , Dickson Kyley , Sorochan John
Published: November 2024

Carpet‐mat systems are a diverse group of hybrid stabilizing systems that are installed during sod establishment. In this experiment, eight hybrid, carpet‐mat systems (Flexgrass, Hatko Turfgrass XL BIO 40/34/10 [Turfgrass BIO], Hatko Hybridgrass 40 DS 10 XL [Hybridgrass 40 XL], Hatko Hybridgrass 53 DS 10 XL [Hybridgrass 53 XL], HG Turf Group HERO 127.127 [HERO 127], HG Turf Group HERO 169.169 [HERO 169], Tarkett Sports PlayMaster, POWERgrass™ SP/T [POWERgrass]) were screened for their suitability as a playing surface option for FIFA tournaments. Research was conducted at Michigan State University (MSU) and the University of Tennessee (UT). In fall 2023, carpets were seeded with perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) and established over plastic. Carpets were infilled with a graded, 90:10 (sand:peat) root zone to each carpet manufacturers prescribed depth. In spring 2024 (<12 months after seeding), established sod was harvested and transplanted to a cellular drainage testing block over asphalt. Treatments were evaluated for surface hardness, rotational resistance, and soccer ball rebound. At UT, treatments had no effect on surface hardness; however, both HERO treatments registered higher rotational resistance than all other carpets. At MSU, all carpet‐mats, but HERO 169, generated a harder playing surface than the non‐stabilized control but had no effect on rotational resistance. Ball rebound was unaffected by any treatment at either location. Based on current FIFA thresholds for an excellent quality pitch, all carpet‐mat systems we evaluated following initial establishment could be considered a suitable hybrid option as a playing surface for a FIFA tournament venue.
Festschrift for Mike Jackson: Applying critical systems thinking through phronetic pluralism: Learning from human learning systems and the adaptive learning pathway
Authors: Hesselgreaves Hannah , Hobbs Catherine , French Max , Wilson Rob , Lowe Toby
Published: November 2024

Contemporary governance challenges require both systemic leadership and adaptive learning to navigate effectively. Yet systems theory and systems thinking remain on the relative margins of management praxis, subject to accusations of theoretical remoteness or impracticality. In this paper, we explore how concepts central to Critical Systems Theory (CST) can be impactfully carried into practice. We discuss the genesis and operation of Human Learning Systems (HLS), a recent complexity‐informed development in public service reform, and the Adaptive Learning Pathway (ALP) for systemic leadership, as two such exemplars. Through these two illustrative cases, we highlight the significance of pragmatism and pluralism in applying CST in practitioner‐orientated and policy contexts and consider the implications for knowledge production and academic relevance. We describe how a spirit of ‘phronetic pluralism’ may act as an appropriate translational device for integrating systems theory in practice and help realise practical improvements in the public policy and management landscape.
Experimental study on the axial compressive performance of prefabricated steel reinforcement cage‐cast‐in‐situ concrete column with an innovative sleeve
Authors: Zhang Zhongwei , Bai Guoliang , Luo Fajiang , Xu Guangxing , Shao Tiantian , Ren Leping , Tian Yong
Published: November 2024

Based on the ribbed rebar with direct rolling thread and hot‐forged double‐lock nut mechanical sleeve connection technology, a construction method for prefabricated reinforcement cage‐cast‐in‐situ concrete (PRC‐CISC) column using this connection is proposed. This method contributes to improving the construction efficiency and engineering quality of reinforced concrete columns. Four PRC‐CISC columns and four control specimens were designed with rebar strength, rebar ratio, and rebar connection method as analysis parameters. A comparative study was conducted on their failure modes, axial compression performance, and rebar connector (coupler) working mechanisms. The results show that compared to the control specimens, the crack morphology of PRC‐CISC columns has no significant difference. However, the apparent yielding position of the reinforcement cage may occur on the cross‐sections where the rebar is located on both sides of the sleeve. The partial carrying capacity of the specimens may increase or decrease (≤4.08%), and the maximum deviation of the displacement ductility coefficient is 0.14, indicating that its strength and deformation differences are relatively small. Furthermore, the study reveals the random migration behavior of the control section of PRC‐CISC columns. When the specimens fail, the strain of the sleeve is significantly smaller than the rebar strain in the control specimens, while the concrete strain shows no significant difference. This is because the increase in the effective area of the sleeve shares the vertical load it bears. Finally, based on the test results, sleeve constitutive relationship, and random migration behavior of the control section, the compressive load capacity range of the positive section of PRC‐CISC columns is proposed. This method can effectively estimate their actual carrying capacity and is consistent with the force characteristics.
A Guided Tour in Qualitative Research
Authors: Mortelmans Dimitri
Published: November 2024

This chapter provides a foundational understanding of qualitative research, delineating its essential characteristics and the place of NVivo in the analytic process. The chapter shows the flexibility inherent in qualitative methods and their adaptability across various academic disciplines. The chapter defines qualitative inquiry as a type of research that has the ability to accommodate complex social phenomena by focusing on naturalistic settings, where researchers seek to interpret phenomena through the meanings that people assign to them. Additionally, the chapter touches upon the contested role of software in qualitative research, discussing both the advantages and potential pitfalls of digital tools in qualitative methodologies.
Exploring Coded Data
Authors: Mortelmans Dimitri
Published: November 2024

This chapter presents three unrelated tools that all assist a researcher with interpreting their results after their data is coded (or from the moment a substantial part of the data is coded). The first tool is the Explore Diagram. The Explore Diagram is a dynamic diagram that allows the researcher to virtually “walk around” through their data. The diagram shows a project item (e.g. an interview, a code, a case) in the middle of the diagram and visually shows all the other project items this item is connected to. From that first diagram, each element can be chosen as the core element of a new diagram, changing the insights in the coded data (over and over again). Second, the Comparison Diagram is discussed. The Comparison diagram shows one project item and its connectedness to another project item. It allows for comparing the connectedness of these two project items, either files, codes, or cases. Lastly, the Framework Matrix is demonstrated. This matrix consists of an intersection of cases (in the rows) and codes (in the columns). In the cells, summaries can be made of the data and easily prepared with the auto summarise function.
Organising Your Project: Secondary Data Management
Authors: Mortelmans Dimitri
Published: November 2024

In this chapter, data management techniques are introduced for projects in a more advanced stage. Project items can be linked with relationships and see-also-links when most data files are imported and coded. These tools allow the researcher to make internal linkages of data fragments visible in the analysis. The chapter also introduces the different Sets a user can create. In addition to grouping project items with folders, NVivo allows (virtual) data to be grouped using static or dynamic sets. Static sets are groups with a fixed group of project items. In contrast, dynamic sets have a query on the data underlying the grouping, allowing the set to be updated as new files are imported or new data is coded.
Using NVivo in Focus Group Research
Authors: Mortelmans Dimitri
Published: November 2024

This chapter addresses the application of NVivo in analysing focus group data. It discusses transcription, coding, and querying group interviews, offering strategies to handle the dynamic and multifaceted data that focus groups generate. The chapter emphasises the double-layered analytical level in focus groups and shows ways to deal with this multilevel structure of individuals clustered in groups. With an interview, the analytical level is the interviewee, implying that the file level coincides with the analytical level. In focus groups, the analytical level of the group coincides with the file level, but within the file (either a transcript or a multimedia file), there is the analytical level of the participant, which does not coincide with the file level. For classifications, this implies that (case) classifications need to be made on both the group and the individual level. After discussing these specific preparations, the chapter shows how queries, and most particularly the Matrix Coding Query, can be used with this double analytical level.
Using Multimedia Material (Photos, Sound and Videos)
Authors: Mortelmans Dimitri
Published: November 2024

Expanding NVivo’s utility to multimedia materials, this chapter explores methods for coding and analysing photos, sound, and video files. The chapter details how NVivo supports integrating multimedia data into qualitative research, enhancing a textual analysis with visual and auditory dimensions. The chapter shows the similarities between textual analysis and media-type analysis and how similar but also different tools aid visual and auditory material in NVivo. Both coding principles and query possibilities are illustrated.
Using NVivo in Team Projects
Authors: Mortelmans Dimitri
Published: November 2024

This chapter focuses on teams collaborating with the stand-alone version of NVivo. As the server version Collaboration Cloud is unavailable to many users, the chapter shows how collaborative work in teams can be organised within the framework of the standalone version. Two situations are discussed. First, the chapter shows a single researcher actively working in NVivo and another researcher (e.g. the supervisor) involved in the project but not as an NVivo user. In this situation, the chapter shows how the active researcher can share information about the project with the second team member by either exchanging protected projects or exchanging reports. A second situation exemplified in the chapter is a research team with multiple researchers working together on a project and needing to collaborate on the same NVivo project. Here, the team needs to create a core project that is shared and continuously integrated and shared again.
Setting Up Your Project: Primary Data Management
Authors: Mortelmans Dimitri
Published: November 2024

This chapter shows how new projects are created and prepared for data import. Emphasis is put on the backup function and the possibility of repairing NVivo projects when the project files get damaged. Next, the chapter shows how to set up a logical folder structure and import various data types into an NVivo project. Lastly, it shows how media files (audio or video) can be transcribed from within NVivo.
Thematic Coding
Authors: Mortelmans Dimitri
Published: November 2024

Data coding is one of the most important steps in a qualitative research project. The researcher can only arrive at reliable results in later analysis phases with adequately coded data. Coding means that the researcher labels all information that says something about the same subject and brings similar pieces of information together under the umbrella of a code. This chapter details every possible step in coding data within an NVivo project. It starts with defining codes and references (fragments to be coded) and strategies to gain depth in coding. Next, both deductive and inductive approaches to coding are explained. The chapter ends with a range of coding tips to make coding in NVivo more efficient: drag-and-drop coding methods, renaming codes, making hierarchical codebooks, using visualisation with coding stripes and highlighting and using the aggregation function in the codebook.
Landwirtschaft und Ernährung als komplexe Problemstellung einer nachhaltigen Entwicklung: eine didaktische Intervention
Authors: Jansen Annegret
Published: November 2024

Die Lerneinheit, die als didaktische Intervention für die vorliegende Studie entwickelt wurde, verfolgt das Ziel, politische Urteilsbildung angesichts komplexer Problemstellungen einer nachhaltigen Entwicklung zu fördern. Sie wurde für Schulklassen des 11. Jahrgangs der gymnasialen Oberstufe konzipiert und erstreckt sich über einen Zeitraum von sieben Wochen. Die Konzeption basiert auf Ansatzpunkten einer politischen Nachhaltigkeitsbildung.
Conclusions
Authors: Autero Anniina , de Moraes Batista Simão Marcela , Karppi Ilari , Korvela Paul-Erik
Published: November 2024

In conclusion, the pervasive nature of security extends across diverse disciplines, with its roots deeply embedded in the fabric of international relations. From the foundational works of Machiavelli and Hobbes to Foucault and contemporary conceptual explorations, the discourse surrounding security has evolved significantly. This book contributes to this discourse by delving into the expansive realm of security, transcending conventional interpretations, and incorporating emerging technologies and multifaceted perspectives.
From Risk Management to Urban Resilience: Urban Development in the Context of the Twenty-First-Century Disaster Risk Reduction Framework
Authors: Karydi Konstantina
Published: November 2024

Resilience building has appeared before us intensively over the last decade as a policy agenda for local governments of all sizes. The starting point is the recognition that while cities grow exponentially, they are facing threats which are more acute and regular owing to changing climatic conditions, urbanization, and interdependency. The past 15 years have witnessed a steep growth in the adoption of the concept of urban resilience as a key urban development approach, particularly by subnational authorities whether city or regional governments and states. Risk reduction through a development lens is increasingly approached as a game-changing development paradigm, whereas the alternative is unsustainable costs in financial and material resources and, more importantly, increasing threat of loss. Nevertheless (as it is more often than not the case with policy) there is no single definition for resilience, while the term itself certainly does not only belong to the field of urban planning; rather resilience is an old term commonly used to describe human behavior in psychology and ecosystem dynamics in environmental and social studies. The chapter offers a comprehensive review of the development of the urban resilience agenda as a global sustainable development goal and a means to transform administrations, as a change management mechanism to address complex twenty-first risks and crisis all the while adjusting to the massive transformation the climate-related goals demand. This chapter frames in a comparative global context the evolution of urban resilience, both as a means to change management in local administration and as a central policy goal to address the unprecedented twenty-first-century shocks and stresses. Furthermore, the chapter discusses urban resilience in the context of the city of Tampere and the SURE program under the Urban Innovative Actions initiative—the case featured in this book.