bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Versatile and Remotely Controllable Light‐Induced Coagulation of Particles Under Flow in a 2D Channel
Authors: Vasquez‐Muñoz Daniela , Rohne Fabian , Sharma Anjali , Lomadze Nino , Santer Svetlana , Bekir Marek
Published: March 2024

On‐demand switch on/off blood clogging is of paramount importance for the survival of mammals, for example as a quick response to seal damage wounds to minimize their bleeding rate. This mechanism is a complex chain process from initiated red blood cell aggregation at the target location (open wound) that quickly seals on a macroscopic scale the damaged flash. Inspired by nature an on‐demand switchable particle clogging mechanism is developed with high spatial resolution down to micrometer size using light as an external non‐invasive stimulation. Particle clogging can be adjusted on demand strong enough to even withstand pressure‐driven fluid flow, additionally building up walls of aggregated particles, which stop the momentum of big particles under shear. The principle relies on a photosensitive surfactant, which induces under light illumination a long‐ranged lateral attractive phoretic‐osmotic activity of silica microparticles forcing them to aggregate. The strength of aggregation and therefore motion reduction or even stop of the particles against the fluid flow depends on the ratio between the aggregation strength and the velocity of the particles. The aggregation strength can be precisely controlled by the applied light intensity and adjusted particle concentration. Increasing both parameters results in a stronger aggregation tendency.
Study on stress–strain relationship and constitutive model of recycled aggregate concrete under axial cyclic compression
Authors: Ge Pei , Song Yang , Zhou Junwen , Ma Xingliang
Published: March 2024

The effects of dry or saturated state, water–cement ratio, coarse aggregate type and steel fiber on the stress–strain relationship of RAC under cyclic loading were studied. What is more, the characteristics of stress–strain curve, plastic strain, stress degradation and stiffness degradation of RAC under cyclic loading were analyzed. The microstructure of RAC was analyzed. Based on the principle of surface energy, the reason for the decrease in compressive strength of wet concrete was analyzed. In addition, the envelope equation of stress–strain curve under cyclic loading, unloading and reloading curve was established. The test results showed that the peak stress of the envelope line of RAC under cyclic loading was affected by dry or saturated state, water–cement ratio and coarse aggregate type, but the addition of steel fiber could reduce the degradation rate of stress and stiffness of RAC after peak strain. The plastic strain accumulation of RAC before and after the peak stress was quite different, but dry or saturated state, water–cement ratio, coarse aggregate type and steel fiber have no obvious influence on the plastic strain accumulation of RAC. The pores and cracks of RAC provide space and channels for the moisture absorption and water absorption. The Weibull–Lognormal statistical distribution envelope model, unloading curve model and reloading curve model established were in good agreement with the experimental curves. The research results provided a reference for the study of the full curve constitutive model of RAC under cyclic loading.
Urinary incontinence in a male dog with an ectopic ureterocoele remnant associated with ipsilateral renal agenesis and cryptorchidism
Authors: Economu Lavinia , McGregor Ombeline , Constantino‐Casas Fernando , Owen Laura
Published: March 2024

A 2‐year‐old, male, neutered labrador retriever with a previous diagnosis of left renal agenesis and left cryptorchidism presented for investigation of mild intermittent urinary incontinence. Abdominal ultrasound, intravenous urography and retrograde positive‐contrast urethrocystography were performed, identifying an unusual fluid‐filled structure, confluent with the left side of the prostate gland. Histopathological diagnosis, following surgical excision, was an ectopic ureterocoele remnant. Urinary incontinence temporarily improved following surgery, but subsequently recurred. A presumptive diagnosis of urethral sphincter mechanism incompetence, in addition to the ectopic ureterocoele remnant was given. Dogs with renal agenesis typically have an absent ipsilateral ureter; however, this report demonstrates an ipsilateral ectopic ureterocoele remnant, a condition rarely reported in veterinary medicine. Multiple ipsilateral genitourinary deformities should be suspected and investigated in animals presenting with any urogenital developmental abnormality. Clinical significance of ectopic ureterocoele remnant in male dogs with urinary incontinence should however be carefully evaluated, and other causes (e.g., urethral sphincter mechanism incompetence) should be considered.
Analytical analysis and heat transfer of CuO and MgO engine oil base nanofluid with the influence of dynamic viscosity, magnetic field, and convective boundary conditions
Authors: Rehman Ali , Khun Ma Chau , Rezapour Shahram , Inc Mustafa , Garalleh Hakim A. L. , Muhammad Taseer
Published: March 2024

This research work investigates the semi‐numerical analysis and heat transfer of MHD 2D, Copper Oxide, and Magnesium oxide engine oil base nanofluid with the consider effect of dynamic viscosity and convective boundary conditions (BCs). The convective BCs and the effect of dynamic viscosity on an extensible surface are considered by the flow system. We converted a set of PDEs into NODEs by applying the appropriate transformations. Using the HAM, we solve this dimensionless coupled equation one for temperature and other for velocity. The impact of various parameters for both temperature and velocity are demonstrated, such as the slip parameter, magnetic parameter (MP), Eckert number (EN), PN, and dynamic viscosity. In response to changes in developing factors, the flow features, such as temperature profiles (TPs) and velocity profiles (VPs), are analyzed and simulated using a physical description. The results of this study add to our knowledge of how engine oil‐based nanofluids promote heat transmission and offer practical advice for thermal management and engineering applications.
Soret effect on stability of Darcy problem in a bidispersive porous medium with an exothermic chemical surface reaction
Authors: Afluk Zaid Abbas , Harfash Akil J.
Published: March 2024

We examine a saturated bidispersive porous medium undergoing an exothermic chemical reaction at its lower boundary. The fluid flow within this medium is modelled using the Darcy approach. While the Dufour effect is disregarded, the influence of the Soret effect is thoroughly explored. This problem represents a complex multiphysical phenomenon that integrates fluid dynamics, heat and mass transfer, chemical kinetics and thermoelectric effects. This problem finds relevance in various scientific and engineering applications, including enhanced oil recovery, chemical engineering, environmental engineering and energy systems. We introduce a complementary energy theory alongside a linear theoretical framework for the model. The Chebyshev collocation method is employed to derive both linear and nonlinear results. Our findings reveal that the effect of enhancing the Soret coefficient on the system's stability is contingent upon the boundary conditions and the Lewis number. Specifically, an increase in the Soret coefficient generally stabilises the system during stationary convection. Conversely, in scenarios where oscillatory convection prevails, a higher Soret coefficient tends to destabilise the system.
State-Space Model with One MPP and One Continuous Observation
Authors: Wickramasuriya Dilranjan S. , Faghih Rose T.
Published: March 2024

In this chapter, we will derive the EM algorithm equations for a state-space model having an MPP and a continuous-valued variable as its observations. Before looking at the state-space model itself and the equation derivations, we will again first consider a scenario for where the need for such a model arises. We stated earlier that the human body is comprised of multiple internal sub-systems that are networked with one another.
Kauffman Model with Spatially Separated Ligation and Cleavage Reactions
Authors: Schneider Johannes Josef , Eggenberger Hotz Peter , Jamieson William David , Faggian Alessia , Li Jin , Matuttis Hans-Georg , Caliari Adriano , Weyland Mathias Sebastian , Flumini Dandolo , Diaz Aitor Patiño , Holler Silvia , Casiraghi Federica , Cebolla Sanahuja Lorena , Hanczyc Martin Michael , Barrow David Anthony , Dimitriou Pantelitsa , Castell Oliver , Füchslin Rudolf Marcel
Published: March 2024

One of the open questions regarding the origin of life is the problem how macromolecules could be created. One possible answer is the existence of autocatalytic sets in which some macromolecules mutually catalyze each other’s formation. This mechanism is theoretically described in the Kauffman model. We introduce and simulate an extension of the Kauffman model, in which ligation and cleavage reactions are spatially separated in different containers connected by diffusion, and provide computational results for instances with and without autocatalytic sets, focusing on the time evolution of the densities of the various molecules. Furthermore, we study the rich behavior of a randomly generated instance containing an autocatalytic metabolism, in which molecules are created by ligation processes and destroyed by cleavage processes and vice versa or generated and destroyed both by ligation processes.
Ungleichheiten und Familiengenerationen
Authors: Bosshardt Tamara
Published: March 2024

Gemeinsamkeiten stellen ein Gefühl der Verbundenheit zwischen Menschen her, während die eigene Individualität meist erst durch Unterschiede zu Anderen erfahren wird. Einige Unterschiede bleiben gesellschaftlich weitgehend folgenlos. Andere Unterschiede werden hingegen genutzt, um Menschen in Gruppen einzuteilen, welchen Möglichkeiten eröffnet oder verwehrt werden. Welche Unterschiede und Gruppenzugehörigkeiten gesellschaftlich relevant werden, ist dabei nicht naturgegeben, sondern eine Folge von historisch gewachsenen sozialen Machtverhältnissen.
Einleitung
Authors: Lüder Stefan
Published: March 2024

Seit Beginn der akademischen Institutionalisierung der Geschichtswissenschaften im Verlauf des 19. Jahrhunderts bildete der Nationalstaat und dessen Grenzen lange Zeit den grundlegenden Referenzrahmen historischer Forschung. Ab der zweiten Hälfte des 20. Jahrhunderts wurde die Dominanz der Nationalgeschichte und der sogenannte methodologische Nationalismus aber zunehmend infrage gestellt.
Recht und Ordnung im Gorkhā-Staat
Authors: Lüder Stefan
Published: March 2024

Im historiografischen Narrativ der Rāṣṭrīya Itihās herrschte über Jahrzehnte der Konsens, die Zeit der Rāṇā-Dynastie zwischen 1846 und 1950 sei eine „dunkle Episode“ despotischer Willkürherrschaft illegitimer Usurpatoren. Erst ab den späten 1970er und vermehrt schließlich ab den 1980er Jahren wurden in den Geschichtswissenschaften vereinzelt Versuche unternommen, sich differenzierter und weniger wertend mit dieser Zeit auseinanderzusetzen. Dennoch beschränkten sich der Großteil der Publikationen auf Herrscherbiografien, eine deskriptive Ereignisgeschichte oder Themen wie Außen- und Innenpolitik, Verwaltung, Militär, Wirtschaft und Gesellschaft. In den folgenden Kapiteln steht daher die Frage im Fokus, ob sich die Rāṇā-Familie nach ihrer Machtübernahme auch einige Ideen und Praktiken der britischen Zivilisierungsmission aneigneten und für den eignen Machterhalt und -ausbau einsetzten.
Das Erbe der Selbstzivilisierung im Himalaya
Authors: Lüder Stefan
Published: March 2024

In diesem Buch wurden wichtige Strategien zur Herrschaftslegitimation im überlangen 19. Jahrhundert des Gorkhā-Staates herausgearbeitet. Dabei wurde detailliert dargelegt, auf welch vielschichtige und komplexe Art und Weise die Geschichte des Gorkhā-Staates mit der Geschichte Asiens, Europas und der weiteren Welt verwoben ist. Anhand der exemplarischen Untersuchung der legitimatorischen Diskurse und Praktiken wurde hinreichend belegt und gezeigt, wie sich ändernde lokale, regionale und globale Dynamiken der Staatsbildung zu neuen Formen der Herrschaftslegitimation führen. Es konnte dargelegt werden, wie es den herrschenden Eliten des Gorkhā-Staates im Verlauf des überlangen 19. Jahrhunderts durch die sukzessive Selbstzivilisierung gleichermaßen gelungen war, den internen Machterhalt weitestgehend sicherzustellen und einer potenziell drohenden Fremdbestimmung durch die britische Kolonialmacht zuvorzukommen und dadurch die Souveränität und territoriale Integrität des Gorkhā-Staates zu bewahren. Durch das eigens entwickelte Forschungsdesign wurde in der Praxis demonstriert, wie Global-, Regional- und sogar Nationalgeschichte in der historischen Forschung im Zusammenhang gedacht und auch umgesetzt werden kann, um Tendenzen zu methodologischem Globalismus, Regionalismus und Nationalismus entgegenzuwirken.
Complex hyperbolic representations of $$\textrm{PSL}_2(\textbf{R})$$
Authors: Ruiz Stolowicz Gonzalo Emiliano
Published: March 2024

We construct a two-parameter family of irreducible representations of $$\textrm{PSL}_2(\textbf{R})$$

PSL
2

(
R
)

in the isometry group of the infinite-dimensional complex hyperbolic space. To this end, we introduce the notion of horospherical combination of two representations. Our family then appears as horospherical combinations of two known one-parameter families.
Dynamic pricing using flexible heterogeneous sales response models
Authors: Aschersleben Philipp , Steiner Winfried J.
Published: March 2024

We combine nonparametric price response modeling and dynamic pricing. In particular, we model sales response for fast-moving consumer goods sold by a physical retailer using a Bayesian semiparametric approach and incorporate the price of the previous period as well as further time-dependent covariates. All nonlinear effects including the one-period lagged price dynamics are modeled via P-splines, and embedding the semiparametric model into a Hierarchical Bayesian framework enables the estimation of nonlinear heterogeneous (i.e., store-specific) immediate and lagged price effects. The nonlinear heterogeneous model specification is used for price optimization and allows the derivation of optimal price paths of brands for individual stores of retailers. In an empirical study, we demonstrate that our proposed model can provide higher expected profits compared to competing benchmark models, while at the same time not seriously suffering from boundary problems for optimized prices and sales quantities. Optimal price policies for brands are determined by a discrete dynamic programming algorithm.
Studying the preparation, characterization, and physical properties of NiFe2O4, TiO2, and NiFe2O4/TiO2 nanocomposite
Authors: Ghaffar Dalia N. , Arman M. M. , El-Dek S. I. , Ramadan Rania
Published: March 2024

NiFe2O4 nanoparticles have been synthesized using the flash auto-combustion technique, while TiO2 nanoparticles were prepared via sol–gel method. NiFe2O4/TiO2 nanocomposite was obtained through the sonochemical method. Investigated samples have been studied through XRD, FTIR, and FESEM. The crystallite sizes of NiFe2O4, TiO2, and NiFe2O4/TiO2 are 48.37, 25.56, and 32.46 nm, respectively. FTIR analysis was used to look into the materials’ functional groups. The images of FESEM illustrated that the particles were prepared in nanoscale. All samples were good absorbers in the UV spectrum through the wavelengths of 200–350 nm. The energy band gap values of TiO2, NiFe2O4, and NiFe2O4/TiO2 nanocomposite are 3.4, 2.3, and 2.5 eV, respectively, for the indirect transition. The samples’ dielectric characteristics have been investigated and they have a semiconductor like behavior. VSM and the Faraday technique were used to test the materials’ magnetic characteristics.
Image inpainting method based on AU-GAN
Authors: Dong Chuangchuang , Liu Huaming , Wang Xiuyou , Bi Xuehui
Published: March 2024

Image inpainting refers to the process of filling in missing regions or removing objects, and has broad application prospects. The rapid development of deep learning has led to new technological breakthroughs in image repair technology, continuously improving the quality of image inpainting. However, when we inpaint large missing regions, the texture and structural features of the image cannot be comprehensively utilized. This leads to blurry images. To solve this problem, we propose an improved dual-stream U-Net algorithm that adds an attention mechanism to the two U-Net networks known as a dual AU-Net network to improve the texture details of the image. In addition, the location code (LC) of damaged regions is added to the network to guide network repair and accelerate the network convergence speed. Least squares GAN (LSGAN) loss is added to the generator’s adversarial network to capture more content details and enhance training stability. The PSNR is 33.93 and the SSIM is 0.931 in the CelebA and Paris datasets. This method has been proven effective when compared to other methods.
Does crural repair with biosynthetic mesh improve outcomes of revisional surgery for recurrent hiatal hernia?
Authors: Panici Tonucci T. , Aiolfi A. , Bona D. , Bonavina L.
Published: March 2024

Background

Laparoscopic revisional surgery for recurrent hiatal hernia (HH) is technically demanding. Re-recurrences are common and esophageal hiatus mesh reinforcement might improve durability of the repair, thus minimizing the risk of re-herniation.

Purpose

Assess safety and effectiveness of simple suture repair (no mesh group) vs. crural augmentation with a biosynthetic absorbable mesh (mesh group) in patients with recurrent HH.

Methods

Observational retrospective study from September 2012 to December 2022. Only patients undergoing redo surgery for previous failures of hiatal hernia repair were enrolled. Surgical failure was defined as symptomatic recurrent HH with > 2 cm of gastric tissue above the diaphragmatic impression at upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and/or swallow study. Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease Health-Related Quality of Life (GERD-HRQL) and Short Form-36 (SF-36) questionnaires were used to assess and preoperative and postoperative symptoms and quality of life.

Results

One hundred four patients were included. Overall, 60 patients (57.7%) underwent mesh-reinforced cruroplasty, whereas 44 (42.3%) underwent simple suture cruroplasty. Mesh and no mesh groups had similar baseline demographics, symptoms, prevalence of esophagitis and Barrett’s esophagus, and HH size. A composite crural repair was most commonly performed in the mesh group (38.3% vs. 20.5%; p = 0.07). In addition to cruroplasty, most patients (91%) underwent a Toupet fundoplication. The 90-day postoperative complication rate was 8.6%, and there was no mortality. Recurrent HH was diagnosed in 21 patients (20.2%) with a clinical trend toward reduced incidence in the mesh group (16.7% vs. 25%; p = 0.06). Compared to baseline, there was a statistically significant improvement of median GERD-HRQL score (p < 0.01) and all SF-36 items (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

Laparoscopic revisional surgery for recurrent HH is safe and effective. Selective use of biosynthetic mesh may protect from early recurrence and has the potential to reduce re-herniation in the long-term.
Proteus effect or bodily affordance? The influence of virtual high-heels on gait behavior
Authors: Oberdörfer Sebastian , Birnstiel Sandra , Latoschik Marc Erich
Published: March 2024

Shoes are an important part of the fashion industry, stereotypically affect our self-awareness as well as external perception, and can even biomechanically modify our gait pattern. Immersive Virtual Reality (VR) enables users not only to explore virtual environments, but also to control an avatar as a proxy for themselves. These avatars can wear any kind of shoe which might similarly affect self-awareness due to the Proteus Effect and even cause a bodily affordance to change the gait pattern. Bodily affordance describes a behavioral change in accordance with the expected constraints of the avatar a user is embodied with. In this article, we present the results of three user studies investigating potential changes in the gait pattern evoked by wearing virtual high-heels. Two user studies targeted female participants and one user study focused male participants. The participants wore either virtual sneakers or virtual high-heels while constantly wearing sneakers or socks in reality. To measure the gait pattern, the participants walked on a treadmill that also was added to the virtual environment. We measured significant differences in stride length and in the flexion of the hips and knees at heel strike and partly at toe off. Also, participants reported to walk more comfortably in the virtual sneakers in contrast to the virtual high-heels. This indicates a strong acceptance of the virtual shoes as their real shoes and hence suggests the existence of a bodily affordance. While sparking a discussion about the boundaries as well as aspects of the Proteus Effect and providing another insight into the effects of embodiment in VR, our results might also be important for researchers and developers.
Informing existing technology acceptance models: a qualitative study with older persons and caregivers
Authors: Felber Nadine Andrea , Lipworth Wendy , Tian Yi Jiao , Roulet Schwab Delphine , Wangmo Tenzin
Published: March 2024

New technologies can help older persons age in place and support their caregivers. However, they need to be accepted by the end-users to do so. Technology acceptance models, such as TAM and UTAUT and their extensions, use factors like performance expectancy and effort expectancy to explain acceptance. Furthermore, they are based on quantitative methods. Our qualitative study investigates factors fostering and hindering acceptance among older persons and their caregivers for a variety of assistive technologies, including wearables, ambient sensors at home with and without cameras and social companion robots. The goal of this paper is twofold: On the one hand, it investigates the factors of technology acceptance models in a qualitative setting. On the other hand, it informs these models with aspects currently overlooked by them. The results reveal that performance expectancy and effort expectancy are relevant for acceptance. We also find that reliability, anxiety around technology and different social aspects have an influence on acceptance of assistive technology in aged care for all end-user groups. Our findings can be used to update current technology acceptance models and provide in-depth knowledge about the currently used factors.
Machine learning heralding a new development phase in molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Prašnikar Eva , Ljubič Martin , Perdih Andrej , Borišek Jure
Published: March 2024

Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations are a key computational chemistry technique that provide dynamic insight into the underlying atomic-level processes in the system under study. These insights not only improve our understanding of the molecular world, but also aid in the design of experiments and targeted interventions. Currently, MD is associated with several limitations, the most important of which are: insufficient sampling, inadequate accuracy of the atomistic models, and challenges with proper analysis and interpretation of the obtained trajectories. Although numerous efforts have been made to address these limitations, more effective solutions are still needed. The recent development of artificial intelligence, particularly machine learning (ML), offers exciting opportunities to address the challenges of MD. In this review we aim to familiarize readers with the basics of MD while highlighting its limitations. The main focus is on exploring the integration of deep learning with MD simulations. The advancements made by ML are systematically outlined, including the development of ML-based force fields, techniques for improved conformational space sampling, and innovative methods for trajectory analysis. Additionally, the challenges and implications associated with the integration of ML and artificial intelligence are discussed. While the potential of ML-MD fusion is clearly established, further applications are needed to confirm its superiority over traditional methods. This comprehensive overview of the new perspectives of MD, which ML has opened up, serves as a gentle introduction to the exciting phase of MD development.
Prioritizing conservation areas to mitigate connectivity loss and local extinction risk of a small carnivore (Leopardus guttulus) in South America
Authors: Sartor Caroline Charão , Cushman Samuel Alan , Wan Ho Yi , Tirelli Flávia Pereira , Althoff Sérgio Luiz , Eizirik Eduardo , Trigo Tatiane Campos , de Freitas Thales Renato O.
Published: March 2024

Effective conservation management depends on the maintenance of key areas that allow population connectivity across the landscape. However, the lack of knowledge of how habitat conversion affects species movement hinders the identification of these areas. Here, we analyzed the impact of habitat fragmentation on landscape connectivity for Leopardus guttulus, a small Neotropical felid threatened by the high habitat fragmentation across the Atlantic Forest, and mapped and ranked the most important core areas and corridors for conservation actions. We also estimated genetic diversity indices and predicted the viability of the current core areas in the future. Our analyses suggest that L. guttulus populations are fragmented, and connectivity links between populations are few and weak. We predict that due to their size, estimated density and low connectivity, some current core areas may not maintain viable populations in the long-term. Also, ongoing land-use changes may further isolate remaining populations, leading to progressive reductions in the populations they support. In this study, we spatially prioritize the most critical areas for L. guttulus conservation and highlighted the urge that exists in the adoption of management measures for its conservation.
Transcriptomic characterization of the histopathological growth patterns in breast cancer liver metastases
Authors: Leduc Sophia , Nguyen Ha-Linh , Richard François , Zels Gitte , Mahdami Amena , De Schepper Maxim , Maetens Marion , Pabba Anirudh , Jaekers Joris , Latacz Emily , Bohlok Ali , Vanderheyden Evy , Van Brussel Thomas , Boeckx Bram , Schepers Rogier , Lambrechts Diether , Dirix Luc , Larsimont Denis , Vankerckhove Sophie , Lucidi Valerio , Topal Baki , Bachir Imane , Donckier Vincent , Floris Giuseppe , Vermeulen Peter , Desmedt Christine
Published: March 2024

Metastatic breast cancer (mBC) remains incurable and liver metastases (LM) are observed in approximately 50% of all patients with mBC. In some cases, surgical resection of breast cancer liver metastases (BCLM) is associated with prolonged survival. However, there are currently no validated marker to identify these patients. The interactions between the metastatic cancer cells and the liver microenvironment result in two main histopathological growth patterns (HGP): replacement (r-HGP), characterized by a direct contact between the cancer cells and the hepatocytes, and desmoplastic (d-HGP), in which a fibrous rim surrounds the tumor cells. In patients who underwent resection of BCLM, the r-HGP is associated with a worse postoperative prognosis than the d-HGP. Here, we aim at unraveling the biological differences between these HGP within ten patients presenting both HGP within the same metastasis. The transcriptomic analyses reveal overexpression of genes involved in cell cycle, DNA repair, vessel co-option and cell motility in r-HGP while angiogenesis, wound healing, and several immune processes were found overexpressed in d-HGP LM. Understanding the biology of the LM could open avenues to refine treatment of BC patients with LM.
The Four Faces of Intoxication in the Botswana Criminal Justice System: “Defence”, Extenuation, Mitigation, and Aggravation
Authors: Dambe Baboki Jonathan , Balule Badala Tachilisa
Published: March 2024

Intoxication plays a role in the commission of crimes in most, if not all, jurisdictions. Botswana is no exception. Our law reports are replete with cases in which intoxication is alleged to have contributed to the commission of the offence. In this regard, courts continually find themselves contending with the consideration that they ought to give to the intoxication, in respect to both the criminal culpability of the accused person and their moral blameworthiness when it comes to sentencing. This paper highlights that, in the context of Botswana, intoxication may be treated as a defence, an extenuating circumstance, a mitigating factor, or an aggravating factor. It interrogates the approaches adopted by the courts in considering intoxication in these four roles. Given the divergence of judicial approach to intoxication in sentencing, the paper highlights the necessity of sentencing guidelines in order to attain a measure of predictability and consistency. Consequently, the paper assesses the sentencing guidelines adopted by other jurisdictions in respect of intoxication and the lessons to be drawn from such guidelines.
Global directed technical change model with fiscal and monetary policies, and public debt
Authors: Loureiro Daniel , Afonso Oscar , Vasconcelos Paulo B.
Published: March 2024

We develop an endogenous growth model with North–South interactions, monetary policy, and a multi-dimensional role for fiscal policy. To boost economic performance, the government of the less developed country subsidizes R&D and intermediate goods production. Besides, to account for the effects of excessive public debt, we introduce a negative externality on productivity and a risk premium effect. Our findings reveal that the steady-state growth rate of both economies depends positively on the subsidies in the South and negatively on the public debt’s externality on productivity and the risk premium affecting the indebted economy. Additionally, public debt externalities increase the equilibrium wage inequality, making it more significant in the South. To minimize these effects, both countries can agree to mutualize their debts to overcome the risk premium. Then, the economy’s steady-state growth rate would increase in both countries. Finally, several policy implications were retrieved.
Time-varying effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on stock markets and economic activity: evidence from the US and Europe
Authors: Caporale Guglielmo Maria , Çatık Abdurrahman Nazif , Helmi Mohamad Husam , Akdeniz Coşkun , İlhan Ali
Published: March 2024

This paper examines the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on CDS, stock returns, and economic activity in the US and the five European countries that have been most affected: the UK, Germany, France, Italy, and Spain. The sample period covers the period from 11 March 2020 to 19 February 2021. In the empirical analysis, first, we estimate benchmark linear VAR models and then, given the evidence of parameter instability, TVP-VAR models with stochastic volatility, which are ideally suited to capturing the changing dynamics in both financial markets and the real economy. The linear VAR responses of CDS to the number of COVID-19 cases are positive and statistically significant, whilst those of electricity consumption are insignificant and those of stock returns vary across countries in terms of their sign and significance. The results from the TVP-VAR analysis indicate that the effects of shocks on the system variables was more pronounced during the initial stages of the pandemic and then decreased in the following months. Specifically, there was a positive impact of the number of COVID-19 cases on CDS and a negative one on stock returns and economic activity, the latter two being interlinked.
Economic Cycles and Entry into Parenthood: Is the Association Changing and Does it Affect Macro-Level Trends? Micro-Level Hazard and Simulation Models of Belgian Fertility Trends, 1960–2010
Authors: Neels Karel , Marynissen Leen , Wood Jonas
Published: March 2024

The association between economic cycles—typically measured in terms of GDP growth or swings in unemployment—and macro-level fertility trends has received ample attention in the literature. Compared to studies that consider macro-level fertility, individual-based models can address the association between economic cycles and specific stages of family formation (e.g. entry into parenthood) more precisely while allowing for structural factors that contribute to fertility postponement. Using population-wide longitudinal microdata from the Belgian censuses we combine discrete-time hazard models of entry into parenthood for the period 1960 to 2010 with microsimulation models to assess whether economic cycles in tandem with educational expansion can account for year-to-year variation in the proportion of women entering parenthood and variation in the pace of fertility postponement at the macro-level. Results indicate that educational expansion has been a structural driver of fertility postponement, whereas the procyclical effect of economic cycles accounts for accelerations and decelerations of fertility postponement throughout the period considered. Microsimulation of macro-level fertility trends indicates that individual-based models predict the annual proportion of women entering parenthood and the mean age at first birth with average errors of prediction below 1 per cent and 3 months, respectively, while also showing strong correlations between first differences of observed and simulated time-series. Because the extended observation window encompasses several severe recessions, we test whether the association between economic cycles and entry into parenthood has changed over time and how this affected macro-level trends, discussing several mechanisms that may account for such temporal variation.
#MeToo Activism as Pragmatic Justice Seeking
Authors: Karlsson Lena
Published: March 2024

As #MeToo activists took their testimonies of sexual harm outside the legal arena to seek justice, the #MeToo movement has commonly been framed as pitting informal justice-seeking against formal law. This article draws on interviews with Swedish #MeToo activists and focuses on their experiences of justice seeking. It asks the key question: what does justice look like for #MeToo participants? I demonstrate how a binary framework, with formal law on one side and informal community justice practices on the other, does not offer an understanding of the justice interests of activists. The interviews convey how acts of justice seeking are plural, spanning both legal and extra-legal terrains, as well as temporally long-lasting and contextually shifting. The justice-seeking emerges as pragmatic because the #MeToo moment is bound up with the promise that, at this rhetorical moment, the act of speaking out will finally be heard on a societal scale.
Predicting Satisfaction with Money Management and Life Satisfaction in Parents of Emerging Adult Students
Authors: Zupančič Maja , Lep Žan
Published: March 2024

Many parents cope with the prolonged financial dependence of their emerging adult children and problems arising from sharing a household, which may challenge parental satisfaction with money management (SMM) and life satisfaction (LS). We created and tested a conceptual model of potential pathways to parental SMM and LS. Data were collected in a sample of 482 student–parent pairs via an online survey that included adjusted questionnaires on financial functioning (Shim et al., Journal of Youth and Adolescence 39:1457–1470, 2010) and Satisfaction with Life Scale (Diener et al., Journal of Personality Assessment 49:71–75, 1985). Relying on the model of financial satisfaction from the student perspective (Sirsch et al., Emerging Adulthood 8:509–520, 2020), we proposed pathways of the family SES, financial parenting (explicit teaching and financial behavior; parent report; 22.8% fathers), and parent–child financial relationships (student report; Mage = 19.94; 45.2% males) to parental SMM and LS. We also anticipated intermediate relations of financial parenting with the students' self-reported financial learning outcomes (cognitive and behavioral/relational). The SES, proactive parental financial behavior, and favorable parent–child financial relationships predicted parental SMM and LS. Financial parenting was linked to the student's positive financial learning outcomes, but only financial knowledge further influenced the financial relationship with their parents. The findings suggest the benefits of successful parental financial socialization for both the offspring's finance-related outcomes and their parents' satisfaction.
Academic researchers’ motivations to engage in university–industry collaboration in cross-border regions
Authors: Mascarenhas Carla , Mendes Telma , Galvão Anderson R. , Marques Carla S. , Ferreira João J.
Published: March 2024

More than ever, universities and policymakers are paying attention to faculty members’ engagement in industries’ projects because university–industry collaboration (UIC) is seen as the key to economic development. However, the UIC differs from country to country, and researchers may have different motivations. This study explored the relationship between university researchers’ motivations and varied UIC channels. A questionnaire was administered to the relevant faculty in public universities in two cross-border regions of Portugal and Spain. Drawing on data gathered from 841 researchers, the results reveal differences in these academics’ motivations to engage in different channels. Pecuniary motivations (i.e., access to funding and commercialization) drive UIC through joint and contract research, while non-pecuniary motivations (i.e., learning opportunities and access to resources) inhibit cooperation through the same two engagement channels. In addition, joint and contract research involvement also depends on researchers’ age, academic status, department size, and field of study. This study provides empirical evidence on the motivations and channels of UIC in two cross-border regions of Portugal and Spain. Furthermore, it presents important results for universities and policymakers who need to increase motivation and improve UIC channels.
Experimental characterization of a nonlinear mechanical oscillator with softening behaviour for large displacements
Authors: Anastasio D. , Marchesiello S. , Svelto C. , Gatti G.
Published: March 2024

This paper presents an experimental insight into the performance of a mechanical oscillator consisting of an X-shaped-spring configuration. This configuration achieves an overall softening characteristic with quasi-zero stiffness behaviour far away from the static equilibrium point. Such a geometrical nonlinear configuration has attracted significant research attention in the last few years, particularly for its application as a vibration isolator with the possibility to extend the quasi-zero-stiffness region beyond that of the classical three-spring nonlinear isolator. However, previous experimental evidence has been limited to small amplitude vibration excitation only. Furthermore, it has been focused mainly on the isolation region, rather than on the large amplitude response, thus circumventing an insight on the damping effects and its modelling. To address this gap, in this paper, both frequency sweeps and random excitations are applied to a prototype device for experimental characterization. A nonlinear stiffness model is developed based on the geometry of the system and a nonlinear damping model is assumed based on experimental observation. The proposed model accurately describes the dynamic behaviour of the system as shown by comparison of theoretical and experimental data.
Influence of Doping of Niobium Oxide on the Catalytic Activity of Pt/Al2O3 for CO Oxidation
Authors: Yu Le , Song Yejin , Hong Seunghwa , Xu Zhaoyi , Zheng Shourong , Park Jeong Young
Published: March 2024

Pt-based alumina catalysts doped with varying niobium contents (i.e., 0, 1.20, 2.84, and 4.73 wt%, denoted as Pt/Nb–Al2O3) were synthesized via stepwise impregnation for catalytic CO oxidation. The effective incorporation of Nb species without altering the fundamental properties of the Al2O3 support was confirmed by the characterization using XRD, Raman, and TEM. Pt metallic particles were uniformly deposited on the niobium-doped alumina (Nb–Al2O3) support. H2-TPR and CO–TPD analyses were performed to reveal the influence of niobium doping on catalyst reduction and CO adsorption properties. The results consistently demonstrate that the doping of niobium affects reducibility and alleviates the competitive adsorption between CO and O2 during the CO reaction. Particularly, when compared to both undoped and excessively doped Pt/Al2O3 catalysts, the catalyst featuring a 2.84 wt% Nb content on Pt1.4/Nb2.8–Al2O3 displayed the most promising catalytic performance, with a turnover frequency of 3.12 s−1 at 180 °C. This superior performance can be attributed to electron transfer at the Pt/NbOx interface.
A Conceptual Framework for Voluntary Confessions and the Privilege Against Self-Incrimination
Authors: Vatjus-Anttila Jalo
Published: March 2024

The privilege against self-incrimination entails that anyone accused of a criminal offence has the right to remain silent. However, waiving the privilege is possible, but such waiver must be voluntary and in accordance with the will of the accused. This article examines the impact of sentence reductions based on confessions on the voluntariness of confessions. I argue that the concept of voluntariness must be interpreted from the perspective of the values and objectives underlying the privilege against self-incrimination. Depending on the perspective chosen (i.e. objectives and values), sentence reductions can be problematic from the standpoint of the privilege against self-incrimination and the voluntariness requirement it entails. However, it should be also noted that moderate incentives can simultaneously promote the realization of these values and objectives, such as material truth. Categorical negative attitude towards all sentence reductions can be detrimental to the values that the privilege and the voluntariness requirement seek to protect.
Comparison of natural language processing algorithms in assessing the importance of head computed tomography reports written in Japanese
Authors: Wataya Tomohiro , Miura Azusa , Sakisuka Takahisa , Fujiwara Masahiro , Tanaka Hisashi , Hiraoka Yu , Sato Junya , Tomiyama Miyuki , Nishigaki Daiki , Kita Kosuke , Suzuki Yuki , Kido Shoji , Tomiyama Noriyuki
Published: March 2024

Purpose

To propose a five-point scale for radiology report importance called Report Importance Category (RIC) and to compare the performance of natural language processing (NLP) algorithms in assessing RIC using head computed tomography (CT) reports written in Japanese.

Materials and methods

3728 Japanese head CT reports performed at Osaka University Hospital in 2020 were included. RIC (category 0: no findings, category 1: minor findings, category 2: routine follow-up, category 3: careful follow-up, and category 4: examination or therapy) was established based not only on patient severity but also on the novelty of the information. The manual assessment of RIC for the reports was performed under the consensus of two out of four neuroradiologists. The performance of four NLP models for classifying RIC was compared using fivefold cross-validation: logistic regression, bidirectional long–short-term memory (BiLSTM), general bidirectional encoder representations of transformers (general BERT), and domain-specific BERT (BERT for medical domain).

Results

The proportion of each RIC in the whole data set was 15.0%, 26.7%, 44.2%, 7.7%, and 6.4%, respectively. Domain-specific BERT showed the highest accuracy (0.8434 ± 0.0063) in assessing RIC and significantly higher AUC in categories 1 (0.9813 ± 0.0011), 2 (0.9492 ± 0.0045), 3 (0.9637 ± 0.0050), and 4 (0.9548 ± 0.0074) than the other models (p < .05). Analysis using layer-integrated gradients showed that the domain-specific BERT model could detect important words, such as disease names in reports.

Conclusions

Domain-specific BERT has superiority over the other models in assessing our newly proposed criteria called RIC of head CT radiology reports. The accumulation of similar and further studies of has a potential to contribute to medical safety by preventing missed important findings by clinicians.
Quality appraisal of clinical practice guidelines for the evaluation and management of primary hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Salmon Mandy K. , Fritz Christian G. , Barrette Louis-Xavier , Romeo Dominic , Suresh Neeraj V. , Ng Jinggang J. , Balar Eesha , Prasad Aman , Moreira Alvaro , Rajasekaran Karthik
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Multiple groups have created clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) for the management of primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT). This report provides a rigorous quality assessment using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research & Evaluation Instrument (AGREE II) to identify high-performing guidelines and areas for improvement.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted to isolate CPGs addressing the management of PHPT. Guideline data was extracted and quality ratings were assigned by four independent reviewers. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) were calculated to ensure interrater reliability.

Results

Twelve guidelines were assessed. The American Association of Endocrine Surgeons (AAES) guideline had the highest mean scaled score across all domains (73.6 ± 31.4%). No other published guideline achieved a “high” quality designation. The highest scoring domain was “clarity of presentation” (mean 60.5 ± 26.5%). The lowest scoring domain was “applicability” (mean 19.8 ± 18.2%). Scoring reliability was excellent, with ICC ≥ 0.89 for all AGREE II 6 domains.

Conclusion

Although several working groups have developed guidelines to address PHPT management, only those published by the AAES meet all methodologic quality criteria necessary to ensure incorporation of recommendations into clinical practice. Future guidelines would benefit from the development of tools, resources, monitoring criteria that enhance applicability.
Groundwater potential zones delineation using GIS and AHP techniques in upper parts of Chemoga watershed, Ethiopia
Authors: Zewdie Mulusew Minuyelet , Kasie Lmatu Amare , Bogale Solomon
Published: March 2024

Water is one of the most imperative needs and used for innumerable purpose. The needs of groundwater exploration have being increased due to the radical climatic changes, for continually increased population growth and a change of human lifestyle. GIS and AHP of multicriteria decision making are the most effective, applicable and logical approaches to delineate the groundwater potential zones in upper parts of Chemoga watershed. GIS and AHP are a 7 computer-based systems used to handle, store, manipulate, analyze and present geospatial data to resolve several complicated problems in the environment. Hence, the groundwater potential zone is delineated by overlaying the weights of ten influencing factors (lineament density, rainfall, geomorphology, Lithology, slope, drainage density, roughness, land use/land cover, depth to groundwater level and elevation) in ArcGIS platform under spatial analysis tool. All those influencing factors are selected on the bases of their contribution for the ground water recharge. Based on the findings of weighted overlay analysis, 11.1, 18.2, 47.1, 15.4 and 8.2% of the region depicted very good, good, moderately good, poor, very poor groundwater potential zones, respectively. The investigated groundwater potential sites have validated by seven existed borehole data and hence the study verified their close relationships. Out of seven boreholes, about 7–4 and 3–1 were found under very good to good and poor to very poor groundwater potential zones, respectively.