bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Krylov complexity in Lifshitz-type scalar field theories
Authors: Vasli M. J. , Velni K. Babaei , Mozaffar M. R. Mohammadi , Mollabashi A. , Alishahiha M.
Published: March 2024

We investigate various aspects of the Lanczos coefficients in a family of free Lifshitz scalar theories, characterized by their integer dynamical exponent, at finite temperature. In this non-relativistic setup, we examine the effects of mass, finite ultraviolet cutoff, and finite lattice spacing on the behavior of the Lanczos coefficients. We also investigate the effect of the dynamical exponent on the asymptotic behavior of the Lanczos coefficients, which show a universal scaling behavior. We carefully examine how these results can affect different measures in Krylov space, including Krylov complexity and entropy. Remarkably, we find that our results are similar to those previously observed in the literature for relativistic theories.
Stability Analysis and Simulation of a Delayed Dengue Transmission Model with Logistic Growth and Nonlinear Incidence Rate
Authors: Guo Fangkai , Tian Xiaohong
Published: March 2024

In this work, a dengue transmission model with logistic growth and time delay [Formula: see text] is investigated. Through detailed mathematical analysis, the local stability of a disease-free equilibrium and an endemic equilibrium is discussed, the existence of Hopf bifurcation and stability switch is established, and it is proved that the system is permanent if the basic reproduction number is greater than 1. On the basis of Lyapunov functional and LaSalle’s invariance principle, sufficient conditions are derived for the global stability of the endemic equilibrium. The primary theoretical results are simulated numerically. In addition, when [Formula: see text], relevant properties of the Hopf bifurcation are analyzed. Finally, sensitivity analysis is given and data fitting is carried out to predict the epidemic development trend of dengue fever in Singapore in 2020.
Dynamics of a Class of Prey–Predator Models with Singular Perturbation and Distributed Delay
Authors: Gao Jie , Zhang Yue
Published: March 2024

In this paper, two prey–predator models with distributed delays are presented based on the growth and loss rates of the predator, which are much smaller than that of the prey, leading to a singular perturbation problem. It is obtained that Hopf bifurcation can occur, where the coexistence equilibrium becomes unstable leading to a stable limit cycle. Subsequently, considering the perturbation parameter [Formula: see text], the fact that the solution crossing the transcritical point converges to a stable equilibrium is discussed for the model with Holling type I using the linear chain criterion, center-manifold reduction, the geometric singular perturbation theory and entry–exit function. The existence and uniqueness of relaxation oscillation cycle for the model with Holling type II are obtained. In addition, numerical simulations are provided to verify the analytical results.
Bifurcations of Sliding Heteroclinic Cycles in Three-Dimensional Filippov Systems
Authors: Huang Yousu , Yang Qigui
Published: March 2024

Global bifurcations with sliding have rarely been studied in three-dimensional piecewise smooth systems. In this paper, codimension-2 bifurcations of nondegenerate sliding heteroclinic cycle [Formula: see text] are investigated in three-dimensional Filippov systems. Two cases of sliding heteroclinic cycle are discussed: [Formula: see text] connecting two saddle-foci, [Formula: see text] connecting one saddle-focus and one saddle. It is proved that at most one sliding homoclinic or one sliding periodic orbit can bifurcate from [Formula: see text] under certain conditions at the eigenvalues of the equilibria, but they cannot coexist. The asymptotic stability of the sliding periodic orbit and the structural feature of the bifurcation curves of homoclinic orbits are further studied. Finally, two numerical examples corresponding to cases [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], respectively, are simulated to verify the theoretical results.
A Real-Time Deep Learning-Based Facial Mask Detection System for Preventing the Transmission of Respiratory Viruses
Authors: Elbahri Hamda Ben , Walha Rim
Published: March 2024

In order to prevent the spread of respiratory viruses like COVID-19 and influenza, an effective protection method is to wear facial masks in densely populated areas. This has led to a growing need for smart services that automatically detect facial masks and replace manual reminding. To address this challenging task and to contribute towards health safety, this paper introduces MedNetV2 system, which is an efficient deep learning-based facial mask detector with a low computational cost. In comparison with existing systems, the main specificities of the proposed system are: (1) the adoption of an effective deep learning-based framework to deal with both the large scale diversity and position variations of masked faces involved in natural scenes, (2) the interaction between face localization and facial mask detection modules to achieve the overall system goal, (3) the lightweight design and the real-time response well suited for real-world scenarios. Extensive experiments on public dataset and real-world video streaming are carried out to validate quantitatively and visually the effectiveness of the proposed system. Promising results, in terms of detection accuracy as well as time response, are achieved when compared it with other state-of-the-art systems.
Assessing the performance of a radioactive waste repository over geological timescales: past experience and the way forward
Authors: Alexander W. Russell , Reijonen Heini M. , Norris Simon
Published: March 2024

The successful implementation of plans to develop a repository for radioactive waste in the United Kingdom will require an assessment of the ability of the facility to meet appropriate regulatory safety criteria at all stages during its construction, operation and after closure. As part of this assessment, an environmental safety case (ESC) will be presented and this will contain a collection of claims, arguments and evidence which collectively demonstrate that long-term safety can be achieved and maintained. Natural analogues (NA) can be helpful in demonstrating understanding of aspects of repository performance by, for example, providing evidence that certain materials can survive for long periods. Appropriate NAs can be critical to providing long-term practical demonstrations to support the theoretical and mathematical arguments of the ESC and they may have a significant role in the overall process understanding. As part of the ongoing repository development programme in the UK, an updated version of an existing catalogue of NA studies (focussed on the requirements of the ESC) has been produced and the background to NA studies in general, and to the catalogue in particular, are presented here.

Thematic collection:
This article is part of the Sustainable geological disposal and containment of radioactive waste collection available at:
https://www.lyellcollection.org/topic/collections/radioactive
Introduction to the Special Issue on Perspectives on Recommender Systems Evaluation
Authors: Bauer Christine , Said Alan , Zangerle Eva
Published: March 2024

Evaluation plays a vital role in recommender systems—in research and practice—whether for confirming algorithmic concepts or assessing the operational validity of designs and applications. It may span the evaluation of early ideas and approaches up to elaborate implementations of systems integrated into everyday product settings; it may target a wide spectrum of different factors being evaluated. In this special issue, we explore recommender systems evaluation—theory and practice—while considering a diverse set of perspectives. These include recommender systems purposes, stakeholders, methodological approaches, and consequences. The collection of articles in this special issue offers insightful analyses of current recommender system evaluation practices, acknowledging their limitations, and setting out future research directions. As recommender systems evolve, the need for adequate evaluation methods and approaches increases. This special issue sheds light on areas undergoing development or requiring added attention from the research and practitioner communities in recommender systems. The compilation serves as a call to the recommender systems research community, motivating continued research and exploration of evaluation metrics, methods, and strategies.
Pre-Trained Language Models for Text Generation: A Survey
Authors: Li Junyi , Tang Tianyi , Zhao Wayne Xin , Nie Jian-Yun , Wen Ji-Rong
Published: March 2024

Text Generation aims to produce plausible and readable text in human language from input data. The resurgence of deep learning has greatly advanced this field, in particular, with the help of neural generation models based on pre-trained language models (PLMs). Text generation based on PLMs is viewed as a promising approach in both academia and industry. In this article, we provide a survey on the utilization of PLMs in text generation. We begin with introducing two key aspects of applying PLMs to text generation: (1) how to design an effective PLM to serve as the generation model; and (2) how to effectively optimize PLMs given the reference text and to ensure that the generated texts satisfy special text properties. Then, we show the major challenges that have arisen in these aspects, as well as possible solutions for them. We also include a summary of various useful resources and typical text generation applications based on PLMs. Finally, we highlight the future research directions which will further improve these PLMs for text generation. This comprehensive survey is intended to help researchers interested in text generation problems to learn the core concepts, the main techniques and the latest developments in this area based on PLMs.
Efficient Amperometric Detection of Ornidazole: An Antibiotic Drug Based on Rare-Earth Metal Oxide Entrapped with Graphene Nanosheets Nanocomposite
Authors: Poomporai Vadivel Ramachandramoorthi , Venkatesh Krishnan , Alagarsamy Saranvignesh , F. Albeshr Mohammed , Krishnapandi Alagumalai , Sivaganesh Dhanushkodi , Arulanandam Xavier , Ramaraj Sayee Kannan
Published: March 2024

The use of nitro aromatic compounds for the treatment of protozoal infections as well as anaerobic bacteria is widespread. The global use of antiprotozoal drugs causes significant ecological impact on living systems. In this study, electrochemical detection of the antiprotozoal drug ornidazole (ODZ) was demonstrated through neodymium oxide/graphene nanosheets (Nd2O3/GNS) based electrocatalyst. This hybrid material was prepared with a sonochemical probe method. We characterized the Nd2O3/GNS nanocomposite using various analytical and spectroscopic techniques. For rapid ODZ drug determination, we used Nd2O3/GNS nanocomposite-based slurry to modify the glassy carbon electrode (GCE) surface. The electrocatalysis of ODZ using Nd2O3/GNS/GCE showed a good linear range (0.01–221 μM), excellent detection limit (0.001 μM), and high sensitivity, along with long-term stability. The practicality of the sensor electrode for ODZ was successfully determined in water and human urine samples, yielding satisfactory recoveries. Thus the results indicated that Nd2O3 with conductive carbon support including graphene, carbon nanotubes (CNT), carbon nanofibers, etc., can be used as a sensitive sensor electrode for the real-time detection of antibiotic drugs that cause human and environment by continuous consumption and improper disposal from the pharmaceutical industries, respectively.
Review—Solid and Polymer Electrolyte Materials and Related Processing Methods Suitable for Three-Dimensional Battery Architectures
Authors: Church Richard Bertram , Hart A. John
Published: March 2024

Three-dimensional (3D) battery architectures have been envisioned to enable high energy density electrodes without the associated power drop experienced by planar cells. However, the development of 3D cells is hampered by difficulties producing conformal solid-state electrolytes (SSE), solid polymer electrolytes (SPE) and gel polymer electrolytes (GPE) that are pinhole-free and have adequate ionic conductivities. Fortunately, electrolytes in 3D cells are often utilized at lower thickness, which may compensate the decreased ionic conductivity. Here, we comprehensively review potential 3D SSE, SPE and GPE electrolyte materials by compiling their thickness and room temperature ionic conductivity. We use area specific resistance (ASR) as a metric to compare 3D electrolytes with one another and conventional electrolytes. We find that certain process-material combinations, such as atomic layer deposition of SSEs, electrodeposition of SPEs and GPEs, and initiated chemical vapor deposition of SPEs demonstrate ASRs beneath the interfacial impedances of Li-based systems and approach state-of-the-art electrolytes. We also comment on additional factors, such as electrochemical stability, that should be evaluated when determining 3D electrolyte suitability. Future research should focus on adapting known materials chemistries for conformal deposition techniques to further improve the ionic conductivity, as these techniques are capable of producing the necessary thicknesses and conformality.
Estimation of Some Parameters in the Point Defect Model (PDM) for the Passivity of Metals
Authors: Engelhardt George R. , Chen Dihao , Dong Chaofang , Macdonald Digby D.
Published: March 2024

In this paper, we justify that the potential drop at the barrier layer/solution (bl/s) interface of the barrier layer of the passive film on a metal,

φ

f
/
s

,

is a linear function of the applied voltage V and pH in the case of sufficiently thin barrier layer. Furthermore, we show that a relationship exists between parameters α (the dependence of

φ

f
/
s

on V) and β (the dependence of

φ

f
/
s

on pH), that is, those parameters are not independent, in the general case. It is also shown that some dependence of parameters α and β on temperature can exist. However, this dependence in the practical region (0 °C–100 °C) is weak and, in many cases, it is possible to neglect the dependence of parameters α and β on temperature. Finally, we show that it is possible to estimate, theoretically, the parameter β (and accordingly parameter α) by using models for specific systems. For the system considered in the current report (carbon steel in concrete pore water), the estimated value of parameter β is confirmed experimentally. These findings are discussed in terms of the electronic and point defect structures of the barrier layer.
Communication—Anodization of Aluminum in Phosphoric Acid Containing Glycerol at 30 °C
Authors: Asoh Hidetaka , Ota Shino , Hagiwara Kenta
Published: March 2024

Aluminum was anodized in a phosphoric acid solution containing glycerol. Anodization in high concentration and high temperature electrolytes typically faces challenges due to the chemical dissolution of the anodic film. However, we found that the maximum attainable film thickness could be doubled by incorporating glycerol into the electrolyte. This enhancement was more effective under conditions of high concentration and temperature than in environments with lower concentrations and temperatures.
About the Necessity to Consider Membrane Electrolyte Degradation Statistically
Authors: Dlugosch Thomas , Friedrich K. Andreas , Kirsch Sebastian
Published: March 2024

Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFCs) are subjected to aging under pure mechanical, pure chemical and the combination of both stressors. Progression of degradation leads to membrane failures. In this study, seven different accelerated stress test (AST) protocols are applied to degrade two types of commercially available membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs) to demonstrate the necessity to evaluate lifetime of this system with statistical methods. In total, data from 56 samples is reported. Membrane lifetime is derived from hydrogen crossover and open circuit voltage (OCV) which is tracked over the course of degradation. The characteristic membrane lifetime distribution of each AST protocol is described via a cumulative Weibull distribution function (CDF). As a result, the scatter of lifetime distribution correlates with the lifetime itself and thus conclude that less repeats are required for ASTs creating short lifetimes compared to those causing long lifetimes. As the latter is required especially for membrane lifetime prediction, these conclusions are relevant for anybody designing the lifetime of PEMFC stacks.
Antiacne Gel Containing Aloe vera and Clindamycin Phosphate: Design, Characterization, and Optimization Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Rana Tayyaba , Zaman Muhammad , Khan Mahtab Ahmed , Khan Abdul Qayyum , Jamshaid Muhammad , Nouh Nehal Ahmed Talaat , El-Demerdash Fatma M. , Kamel Mohamed , Abdel-Daim Mohamed M. , Albadrani Ghadeer M. , Javaid Sumiyya , Naeem Zainab
Published: March 2024

Clindamycin phosphate is a topical antibiotic agent used to treat acne vulgaris, while Aloe vera has both antimicrobial and anti‐inflammatory properties. The current study is aimed at formulating an antiacne gel with antioxidant and antimicrobial effects. The antiacne gels were prepared by using polymer HPMC K15M by cold dispersion method. Unveiling the intricacies of gel design, our research harnessed the power of Design Expert 11 to optimize critical parameters—viscosity, spreadability, and permeability. In vitro characterization tests, including pH, spreadability, viscosity, permeability, antimicrobial activity, antioxidant activity, and stability of the gels, were performed. The results of in vitro characterization tests showed that the gels had a mint‐like odor, a pH of 6.8, and a spreadability of 21.5 g cm/sec. The gels had a viscosity of 34.2 Pa s and drug content ranging within 90%‐110%, as per USP standards. Notably, in vitro permeation assays reveal an exceptional 86% drug release, showcasing the efficacy of our formulation. The uniqueness of our study lies not only in the robust optimization process but also in the multifaceted characterization. Our gel emerges as a promising candidate, exhibiting not only desired antimicrobial and antioxidant properties against acne vulgaris but also demonstrating stability under varied conditions. As we advance toward in vivo studies, our research paves the way for a nuanced understanding of the safety and efficacy of this distinctive antiacne gel.
Data from Combined CDK4/6 and ERK1/2 Inhibition Enhances Antitumor Activity in NF1-Associated Plexiform Neurofibroma
Authors: Flint Alyssa C. , Mitchell Dana K. , Angus Steven P. , Smith Abbi E. , Bessler Waylan , Jiang Li , Mang Henry , Li Xiaohong , Lu Qingbo , Rodriguez Brooke , Sandusky George E. , Masters Andi R. , Zhang Chi , Dang Pengtao , Koenig Jenna , Johnson Gary L. , Shen Weihua , Liu Jiangang , Aggarwal Amit , Donoho Gregory P. , Willard Melinda D. , Bhagwat Shripad V. , Clapp D. Wade , Rhodes Steven D.
Published: March 2024

AbstractPurpose:
Plexiform neurofibromas (PNF) are peripheral nerve sheath tumors that cause significant morbidity in persons with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), yet treatment options remain limited. To identify novel therapeutic targets for PNF, we applied an integrated multi-omic approach to quantitatively profile kinome enrichment in a mouse model that has predicted therapeutic responses in clinical trials for NF1-associated PNF with high fidelity.
Experimental Design:
Utilizing RNA sequencing combined with chemical proteomic profiling of the functionally enriched kinome using multiplexed inhibitor beads coupled with mass spectrometry, we identified molecular signatures predictive of response to CDK4/6 and RAS/MAPK pathway inhibition in PNF. Informed by these results, we evaluated the efficacy of the CDK4/6 inhibitor, abemaciclib, and the ERK1/2 inhibitor, LY3214996, alone and in combination in reducing PNF tumor burden in Nf1flox/flox;PostnCre mice.
Results:
Converging signatures of CDK4/6 and RAS/MAPK pathway activation were identified within the transcriptome and kinome that were conserved in both murine and human PNF. We observed robust additivity of the CDK4/6 inhibitor, abemaciclib, in combination with the ERK1/2 inhibitor, LY3214996, in murine and human NF1(Nf1) mutant Schwann cells. Consistent with these findings, the combination of abemaciclib (CDK4/6i) and LY3214996 (ERK1/2i) synergized to suppress molecular signatures of MAPK activation and exhibited enhanced antitumor activity in Nf1flox/flox;PostnCre mice in vivo.
Conclusions:
These findings provide rationale for the clinical translation of CDK4/6 inhibitors alone and in combination with therapies targeting the RAS/MAPK pathway for the treatment of PNF and other peripheral nerve sheath tumors in persons with NF1.
Table S5 from Drug-resilient Cancer Cell Phenotype Is Acquired via Polyploidization Associated with Early Stress Response Coupled to HIF2α Transcriptional Regulation
Authors: Carroll Christopher , Manaprasertsak Auraya , Boffelli Castro Arthur , van den Bos Hilda , Spierings Diana C.J. , Wardenaar René , Bukkuri Anuraag , Engström Niklas , Baratchart Etienne , Yang Minjun , Biloglav Andrea , Cornwallis Charlie K. , Johansson Bertil , Hagerling Catharina , Arsenian-Henriksson Marie , Paulsson Kajsa , Amend Sarah R. , Mohlin Sofie , Foijer Floris , McIntyre Alan , Pienta Kenneth J. , Hammarlund Emma U.
Published: March 2024

Table S5: scWGS heterogeneity scores.
Activity of the Ubiquitin-activating Enzyme Inhibitor TAK-243 in Adrenocortical Carcinoma Cell Lines, Patient-derived Organoids, and Murine Xenografts
Authors: Arakawa Yasuhiro , Jo Ukhyun , Kumar Suresh , Sun Nai-Yun , Elloumi Fathi , Thomas Anish , Roper Nitin , Varghese Diana Grace , Takebe Naoko , Zhang Xiaohu , Ceribelli Michele , Holland David O. , Beck Erin , Itkin Zina , McKnight Crystal , Wilson Kelli M. , Travers Jameson , Klumpp-Thomas Carleen , Thomas Craig J. , Hoang Chuong D. , Hernandez Jonathan M. , Del Rivero Jaydira , Pommier Yves
Published: March 2024

Current treatment options for metastatic adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) have limited efficacy, despite the common use of mitotane and cytotoxic agents. This study aimed to identify novel therapeutic options for ACC. An extensive drug screen was conducted to identify compounds with potential activity against ACC cell lines. We further investigated the mechanism of action of the identified compound, TAK-243, its synergistic effects with current ACC therapeutics, and its efficacy in ACC models including patient-derived organoids and mouse xenografts. TAK-243, a clinical ubiquitin-activating enzyme (UAE) inhibitor, showed potent activity in ACC cell lines. TAK-243 inhibited protein ubiquitination in ACC cells, leading to the accumulation of free ubiquitin, activation of the unfolded protein response, and induction of apoptosis. TAK-243 was found to be effluxed out of cells by MDR1, a drug efflux pump, and did not require Schlafen 11 (SLFN11) expression for its activity. Combination of TAK-243 with current ACC therapies (e.g., mitotane, etoposide, cisplatin) produced synergistic or additive effects. In addition, TAK-243 was highly synergistic with BCL2 inhibitors (Navitoclax and Venetoclax) in preclinical ACC models including patient-derived organoids. The tumor suppressive effects of TAK-243 and its synergistic effects with Venetoclax were further confirmed in a mouse xenograft model. These findings provide preclinical evidence to support the initiation of a clinical trial of TAK-243 in patients with advanced-stage ACC. TAK-243 is a promising potential treatment option for ACC, either as monotherapy or in combination with existing therapies or BCL2 inhibitors.

Significance:

ACC is a rare endocrine cancer with poor prognosis and limited therapeutic options. We report that TAK-243 is active alone and in combination with currently used therapies and with BCL2 and mTOR inhibitors in ACC preclinical models. Our results suggest implementation of TAK-243 in clinical trials for patients with advanced and metastatic ACC.
Phlegmonous Colitis after Cold Snare Polypectomy in an Immunosuppressed Patient: A Case Report
Authors: Kimura Karen , Ichita Chikamasa , Sumida Chihiro , Nishino Takashi , Nagayama Miki , Kubota Jun , Hirose Haruto , Sasaki Akiko
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Cold snare polypectomy (CSP) is a procedure with a low risk of complications. Here, we present our experience of a rare case of submucosal abscess following CSP in an immunosuppressed patient. Case Presentation: Seventy-eight-year-old man underwent CSP, developing a fever, chills, and right lower abdominal pain 8 days later. Ultrasound and computed tomography revealed wall thickening of the ascending colon, presenting as whitening and thickening of the same region, and excretion of pus was observed after biopsy. The diagnosis was made as phlegmonous colitis, for which antibiotic therapy was commenced. The patient was diagnosed with chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML) during admission. We considered the following reasons as possible causes of infectious complications after CSP: (1) the patient had a highly immunosuppressed state with comorbidities such as CMML as well as diabetes mellitus and (2) disruption of the mucosal barrier occurred during endoscopic resection. Conclusion: Although CSP is generally considered safe, our case highlights the potential for serious complications in immunosuppressed patients. Therefore, the decision to perform CSP in such patients should be made with caution to avoid unnecessary interventions. In instances where treatment is essential, thorough bowel preparation and prophylactic antibiotic use may be necessary to mitigate the risks.
Varying Impact of Lenvatinib or Sorafenib Therapy on Skeletal Muscle Loss in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Yamauchi Yurika , Saeki Issei , Fujisawa Koichi , Egusa Maho , Nishiyama Natsuko , Fujioka Tsuyoshi , Kawamoto Daiki , Sasaki Ryo , Nishimura Tatsuro , Tanabe Norikazu , Hisanaga Takuro , Matsumoto Toshihiko , Ishikawa Tsuyoshi , Yamasaki Takahiro , Takami Taro
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Lenvatinib and sorafenib are key therapeutic agents for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, there are no useful biomarkers for selecting molecular-targeted agents (MTAs). Skeletal muscle volume is associated with the clinical outcomes in these patients. We investigated the effects of lenvatinib and sorafenib on the skeletal muscles of patients with HCC. Methods: We evaluated the impact of skeletal muscle changes over a 3-month period for each MTA (n = 117; lenvatinib/sorafenib, 45/72). The skeletal muscle mass index (SMI) was measured at the third lumbar vertebra. Furthermore, we evaluated the direct effect of each MTA on primary human skeletal muscle cells by estimating muscle protein synthesis using western blot analysis. Results: The median change in SMI was −0.7% (p = 0.959) and −5.9% (p < 0.001) for the lenvatinib and sorafenib groups, respectively. Sorafenib had a greater effect on skeletal muscle loss than lenvatinib (p < 0.001). Additionally, SMI significantly decreased in the sorafenib group regardless of initial skeletal muscle volume (p < 0.001), whereas no significant differences were observed in the lenvatinib group. Sorafenib therapy (odds ratio [OR], 2.98; p = 0.023) and non-muscle depletion (OR, 3.31; p = 0.009) were associated with a decreased SMI. In vitro analysis showed that sorafenib negatively affected muscle synthesis compared to lenvatinib. Conclusions: Sorafenib may have a more negative effect on skeletal muscle than lenvatinib.
The Science of Implicit Race Bias: Evidence from the Implicit
Association Test
Authors: Morehouse Kirsten N. , Banaji Mahzarin R.
Published: March 2024

Beginning in the mid-1980s, scientific psychology underwent a revolution – the implicit revolution – that led to the development of methods to capture implicit bias: attitudes, stereotypes, and identities that operate without full conscious awareness or conscious control. This essay focuses on a single notable thread of discoveries from the Race Attitude Implicit Association Test (RA-IAT) by providing 1) the historical origins of the research, 2) signature and replicated empirical results for construct validation, 3) further validation from research in sociocognitive development, neuroscience, and computer science, 4) new validation from robust association between regional levels of race bias and socially significant outcomes, and 5) evidence for both short- and long-term attitude change. As such, the essay provides the first comprehensive repository of research on implicit race bias using the RA-IAT. Together, the evidence lays bare the hollowness of current-day actions to rectify disadvantage experienced by Black Americans at individual, institutional, and societal levels.
Young Children & Implicit Racial Biases
Authors: Meltzoff Andrew N. , Gilliam Walter S.
Published: March 2024

Children are not born harboring racial biases, but they are born learning. Young children, even infants, learn from the “mere observation” of other people's behavior. Nonverbal signals of racial biases are abundant in children's everyday social environments. Studies show that preschool children acquire social group biases when they observe other people's social interactions and nonverbal behaviors. These new findings have implications for child development and educational equity. Even before kindergarten, racial biases are caught even when not explicitly taught, suggesting the need for practical actions for parents, teachers, and others concerned about the transmission of racial bias across generations.
A Learning-Based Account of Phonological Tiers
Authors: Belth Caleb
Published: March 2024

I propose a learning-based account of phonological-tier-like representations. I argue that humans show a proclivity for tracking adjacent dependencies, and propose a learning algorithm that incorporates this by tracking only adjacent dependencies. The model changes representations in response to being unable to predict the surface form of alternating segments—a decision governed by the Tolerance Principle, which allows for learning despite the sparsity and exceptions inevitable in naturalistic data. Tier-like representations emerge from the algorithm, which achieves high-accuracy learning over natural language data, handles crosslinguistic complexities like neutral segments and blockers, and makes correct experimental predictions about human behavior.
Integration Challenges of Immigrants from Non-English-Speaking Backgrounds in Australia
Authors: Rezaei Omid , Adibi Hossein , Banham Vicki
Published: March 2024

Migrants have played a crucial role in shaping the history of Australian society and its development, particularly after 1975, when Australia formally dismantled its White Australia Policy and welcomed immigrants from around the world. Since then, millions of immigrants from non-English-speaking backgrounds have settled in Australia. This review aims to critically discuss the main challenges that many of these immigrants face as part of their integration process in Australia. For this research, various large and relevant databases were considered and searched. And by applying ‘inclusion and exclusion criteria’, fifty-six major articles published between 1975 to 2021 were selected for critical review and analysis. The findings of this research indicate that, while there have been changes to streamline the process of integration and improve services, five clusters of major challenges have confronted immigrants since 1975: the labour market, racism and discrimination, the language barrier, social connections and housing and accommodation.
State Relationships with the Diaspora
Authors: Peterková Jana , Kohoutová Jana
Published: March 2024

Currently, diasporas are perceived as important non-state actors in international relations and essential partners of the country of origin. The article focuses on this topic using the example of Czechia and Slovakia as two small Central European states that once shared a common past and are now independently developing a relationship with their diaspora. The article explores these interactions in the two countries, looking for commonalities, differences and possibilities for future development. To do so, it uses the methods of documentary analysis and comparison. A relationship with the diaspora is vital for both countries, but the level of cooperation still has room for further development. The differences between the two are mainly in the aspects of the relationship between the state and the diaspora. In the case of Czechia, the opportunity for development lies mainly at the administrative and political levels. In comparison, in Slovakia, this space is found mainly at the level of economic cooperation.
Jasmine in the Search of Identity through a Postcolonial Diaspora Lens
Authors: Morve Roshan K. , Kadri Nashrin A.
Published: March 2024

Applying a postcolonial diaspora lens through Homi K. Bhabha’s theory of the ‘third space’ to Bharati Mukherjee’s novel Jasmine (1989), this paper aims to demonstrate how diasporic women negotiate for an identity in their struggle for a better life in the host land. Having ‘no home’ and ‘no host’, Mukherjee’s protagonist, Jasmine, whose life represents that of the postcolonial immigrant woman, finds an identity in the intercultural process, the ‘third space’. A discourse analysis of this novel and current knowledge of diaspora studies are applied to understanding immigrants’ challenges, postcolonial identity and diaspora-related cultural issues. The paper closely examines cultural hybridity, third space and women’s search for identity in these confrontations. It throws light on a widow’s life and how she tries to get away from the restrictions of home and redesign her identity in a third space in the context of feminism, diaspora and culture in a postcolonial and diasporic world.
African Diasporic Narratives from the Czech Republic
Authors: Rudwick Stephanie , Simuziya Nsama Jonathan
Published: March 2024

Studies have addressed the historical trajectories of people of African heritage in the Czech Republic (CR), but there is no comprehensive study of the contemporary lives and identities of African people. Given the increasing number of African people living in the country, research into an emerging African diaspora is imperative. This empirical study emerges as part of a larger project which aims to address this paucity through an interdisciplinary and ethnographic lens. Its primary aim is to develop a detailed and nuanced account of sociopolitical identities among people of African heritage in the CR by focusing on the dynamics of language and race and, to a lesser degree, gender. Theoretically based on intersectionality and drawing from the recently developed framework of ‘raciolinguistics’, this paper provides the first diasporic narratives of African people in the CR who have varying degrees of Czech language fluency and experience diverse forms of racialisation and racism. Individual multiple life trajectories in the CR suggest that African migrants feel caught in a complex matrix of linguistic and racial discrimination but that they have a sense of reasonable safety and security. This highly ambiguous space also shows that, on the one hand, there are instances where Czech language skills have the capacity to mitigate the challenges in racial discourse and racism, but on the other hand there are clear limits to the power of language in the face of racial Othering and racism.
Diasporas and Political Instability
Authors: Banengaï-Koyama Torcia-Chanelle , Kluge Lucas
Published: March 2024

Many studies have been published during the past decades highlighting the role played by diasporas in conflicts raging in their home countries and on the links between diasporas and international terrorism. Contemporary literature treats the links between diasporas and conflicts in a simplistic manner. For instance, little space is dedicated to determining the effect of diaspora on political instability in the home country. The current study aims to assess the effect of diasporas on political instability in Africa, taking into consideration the role of geographical distance when choosing the destination countries. To achieve this goal, we use two models to test our hypothesis. First, we deploy a gravity model to investigate the destination choice of migrants who build a diaspora. Based on their destination, we then use a fixed effects model and the generalised method of moment (GMM) to analyse the effects of the diaspora on political instability. Overall, we aim to research whether there is a correlation between migrant communities and the political stability in their origin countries. Our findings suggest that diaspora can act as a feedback factor to existing situations by either increasing or decreasing political instability dependent on the initial state the country was in, even though the greatest contribution of diasporas is in terms of peace not of war.
Beating the Untrodden Paths: Computers, Artificial Intelligence and Quanta in Marxist Theory
Authors: Carchedi Guglielmo
Published: March 2024

The fulcrum of this work is knowledge: what it is and how it is generated within the context of a capitalist society. First, Marx’s analysis of the objective labour process is extended to the mental labour process. Then, objective and mental labour processes are defined in terms of objective and mental transformations, with consideration paid to which of the two types of transformation is determinant. This requires a discussion of dialectical logic and formal logic. Within dialectical logic, two types of processes are introduced: open ended and pre-determined. It is argued that computers (both traditional and quantum) and Artificial Intelligence cannot generate new knowledge, because they (a) rely on formal logic, i.e. they cannot engage in open-ended dialectical processes, and (b) are impervious to social determination. Connectedly, Artificial Intelligence systems such as ChatGPT cannot be a substitute for human thought or writing, because of the inevitability of ‘model collapse’. Next, focus is shifted to a specific form of knowledge: the ‘Copenhagen interpretation’ of quantum mechanics. It is shown that this interpretation is steeped in irrationalism and that it is a variant of pro-capitalist ideology. Finally, the social-historical roots of this ideology are revealed.
Soft Power in Hard Concrete: the Berlin Congress Hall, the Cold War and the Building of Transatlantic Relations
Authors: Ohnesorge Hendrik W. , Decker Anna-Sophia
Published: March 2024

The opening of the Congress Hall in Berlin-Tiergarten in 1957 took place during the heyday of the Cold War. Designed by American architect Hugh Stubbins, the building became a focal point in East–West confrontations. Against this backdrop, the article explores the role of architecture in national soft power by taking the example of the Berlin Congress Hall. Commencing with a discussion of architecture as a component of soft power along five criteria, it goes on to examine the planning of the Congress Hall and the significance of its unique design vocabulary. The article concludes that the building, strategically located near the sector borders separating East and West, represents a concrete embodiment of US soft power. Although not an official representational building, the Congress Hall has thus served as a political, cultural and ideational ‘embassy’ of the United States and a major building block in German–American relations up to the present.
Ensuring Lawful Use of Autonomous Weapons
Authors: Cooper Camilla G.
Published: March 2024

The use of autonomous weapons systems (‘aws’) is the source of extensive discussions within the international legal community and beyond. After years of discussing definitions, the discourse is slowly moving on to discuss aws in light of existing law of armed conflict (‘loac’) rules. This article aims to support these discussions by providing a military legal perspective. aws offers great potential benefits to both soldiers and civilians, and control mechanisms already in place for military operations may be employed to define when and how aws can lawfully be used. aws can reduce the exposure of soldiers to dull, dirty and dangerous environments and the risk of incidental civilian harm. To exploit these potentials and ensure legality, regulators need to understand how military forces employ and control the use of force to support their operations, and military planners and decision-makers need to understand the limits of and possibilities within loac.
The Survival Dilemmas of Qinglou Talented Women in the Late Ming Dynasty and Their Encounters with the Patriarchal Order
Authors: Cao Huimin
Published: March 2024

During the Ming and Qing Dynasties it was common thought that the Qinglou talented women were not bound by normal human relationships and women’s virtues because they lived outside the patriarchal order. Chased after by male bigwigs in the society, they mingled at upper-class male playing places and obtained higher reputations because of their outstanding talent. However, they held a very contradictory position because, especially in the Ming dynasty, women’s virtues were still regarded as an important standard of female evaluation in the society. On the one hand, they faced dilemmas in their living conditions, and on the other, there was a subtle interaction between their living space and the patriarchal clan system – this also occurred because of changes created by the patriarchal clan system and social rules, which exerted a continuous influence on the way a female could survive in the later imperial period. Based on historical and literary documents such as jottings, novels, and unofficial history of Ming and Qing Dynasties, this essay aims at analyzing the living space of these talented women.
“Lying Flat”: Chinese Youths’ Resistance to Overwork and the Practice of Stratification
Authors: Xin Tong , Jian Liu
Published: March 2024

This paper delves into the discourse and practice of “lying flat” (tang ping) among Chinese youths. It offers a comprehensive analysis of their collective resistance against the overwork and the competitive pressures in their career. From the perspectives of cultural, economic, and social capital, the “lying flat” among contemporary Chinese youths could be divided into three modes. The first mode, referred to as the fire mode (Financial Independence, Retire Early movement), predominantly represents the elite youths, who have ample cultural, economic, and social capital, and actively express ideas of “lying flat” online. Meanwhile, they strategize a plan for fire. However, their dreams are blocked by competition in the workplace. The second mode is the lifestyle of neet youth, which is primarily a semi-autonomous choice made by urban youths with family resources. neet youths find themselves unable to meet the requirements of the fast-paced, high-demand post-industrial career. Thus, they choose to stay at home, which known as “gnaw the old” (ken lao). Although they may not orally express ‘’lying flat”, they actually practice it. The third mode, known as the “Sanhe Gods” (san he da shen) type, corresponds to the daily laborers. These young individuals who are migrating from rural areas to urban, lack resources and hope for the future. Systemically marginalized by the urban areas, they are typically the grassroots class in society and take “lying flat” as a way of resistance. In summary, the discourse and practice of “lying flat” hold multifaceted significance. On one hand, it serves as a counterpoint to the work ethics supported by neoliberalism. Diverse forms of “lying flat” are social-stratified responses to oppose the intense competition in modern work environments. On the other hand, the stratification of “lying flat” practices mirrors the younger generation’s struggle against the imbalances of the social structure. It reflects their actions against inequality through refusal and non-cooperation toward current work ethics, fostering the emergence of new work ethics and a new paradigm of social integration.
Enhancing Regional Climate Downscaling through Advances in Machine Learning
Authors: Rampal Neelesh , Hobeichi Sanaa , Gibson Peter B. , Baño-Medina Jorge , Abramowitz Gab , Beucler Tom , González-Abad Jose , Chapman William , Harder Paula , Gutiérrez José Manuel
Published: March 2024

Despite the sophistication of global climate models (GCMs), their coarse spatial resolution limits their ability to resolve important aspects of climate variability and change at the local scale. Both dynamical and empirical methods are used for enhancing the resolution of climate projections through downscaling, each with distinct advantages and challenges. Dynamical downscaling is physics based but comes with a large computational cost, posing a barrier for downscaling an ensemble of GCMs large enough for reliable uncertainty quantification of climate risks. In contrast, empirical downscaling, which encompasses statistical and machine learning techniques, provides a computationally efficient alternative to downscaling GCMs. Empirical downscaling algorithms can be developed to emulate the behavior of dynamical models directly, or through frameworks such as perfect prognosis in which relationships are established between large-scale atmospheric conditions and local weather variables using observational data. However, the ability of empirical downscaling algorithms to apply their learned relationships out of distribution into future climates remains uncertain, as is their ability to represent certain types of extreme events. This review covers the growing potential of machine learning methods to address these challenges, offering a thorough exploration of the current applications and training strategies that can circumvent certain issues. Additionally, we propose an evaluation framework for machine learning algorithms specific to the problem of climate downscaling as needed to improve transparency and foster trust in climate projections.

Significance Statement

This review offers a significant contribution to our understanding of how machine learning can offer a transformative change in climate downscaling. It serves as a guide to navigate recent advances in machine learning and how these advances can be better aligned toward inherent challenges in climate downscaling. In this review, we provide an overview of these recent advances with a critical discussion of their advantages and limitations. We also discuss opportunities to refine existing machine learning methods alongside new approaches for the generation of large ensembles of high-resolution climate projections.
Hydroelectric Chimeras and “Our” Mayan Rivers: De-inscribing Security in Guatemala
Authors: Nelson Diane M.
Published: March 2024

This essay is written in the wake of Guatemala’s thirty-six-year civil war, grounded in the Cold War–Doctrine of National Security which understood Indigenous people as “internal enemy.” People who joined social movements were also seeking security: bodily integrity, land, a living wage. For Indigenous people, it was security to be who they are: speaking their languages, practicing their spirituality and lifeways. Before, during, and after the war, hydroelectric projects have been identified with security, given their promises of light and progress. I explore how “scripts” like Race, The State, Citizenship, and The Plantation are inscribed into such objects and how obdurate such prescriptions are. Yet Akrich says that users may define quite different roles of their own. If this happens the objects remain a chimera (p. 208). Through several moments over the last seventy years in Guatemala, I show how various forms of “security”—bodily, communal, productive, national, and financial—are at stake and how hydroelectrics are always under contestation, always chimera.