bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermal and Dielectric Properties of EuF3: Gd @ Tryptophan
Authors: Mahajan Manoj P. , Khandpekar M. M. , Pawanoji Aniket A.
Published: November 2024

EuF3: Gd @ tryptophan was synthesized via aqueous solution route at room temperature. The XRD studies shows hexagonal phase of synthesized nanoparticles with lattice parameters a = b = 6.966 (A°), c = 7.322 (A°). The lattice parameter values are in good agreement with (JCPDS card no 32-0373). The particle size of nanoparticles was calculated using Debye-Scherer formula and it is found to be 73.54 nm. Nanoparticles has flake like morphology having size of the order of 56 nm – 71 nm with nanoparticles has average size of 13 nm. The TEM image shows globular aggregates with assorted size were also seen with diameter 56 nm – 71 nm from which the flower like star structures originates. The TGA/DTA analyses of synthesized sample were studied up to 1500°C at heating rate of 0.01°C – 100°C/min. The variation in dielectric constant ε′, dielectric loss ε″ and tangent loss (tan δ) with frequency (100 Hz – 5 MHz) was studied at room temperature. The dielectric constant and dielectric loss are found to decrease exponentially with frequency. The low value of dielectric loss at higher frequencies indicates its use in electronic industry.
Geosite Kahuripan Evaluation as Gili Genting Potential Asset for Archipelagic Geotourism Development
Authors: Syafitri Dyah Rina , Kurniawan Andri , Widiyastuti Dyah
Published: November 2024

There is a growing global interest in natural tourism, which presents new opportunities for the development of small island regions. Several studies have shown that the development of tourism in the Indonesian Archipelago has led to several significant issues, so within the eastern islands of Sumenep— including Gili genting. The richness of natural features and the unique Maduranese Archipelago community, shown by Kahuripan area. However, the potential for developing a nature-based tourism sector (geosite) with the richness of geotourism, has not been adequately considered yet. Therefore, this study aimed to: 1) conducting inventory of the educational geotourism potential; 2) carrying out evaluations using GAM; 3) developing recommendations for future development of Gili Genting Potential Asset as Archipelagic Geotourism Development. According to inventory analysis, the Kahuripan Geosite consists of six Stop site with various information. The MV assessed 4.25 and AV counted of 4.75. The GAM diagram results indicate that the Kahuripan Geosite lies on Q22 tend to be moderate class of MV and AV. This quadrant suggests that the physical aspects of the geosites are quite interesting, while the tourism management that has begun to be developed needs to be further elaborated towards the geotourism-based education concept.
Exploring Tourism Opportunities: A GIS-based of Bumijawa District in Tegal Regency
Authors: Alfaruq M S , Wibowo A A , Amin C , Anggani N L , Restuarsi D
Published: November 2024

While Tegal Regency’s natural beauty is effectively utilized for tourism, its full potential remains largely untapped. Many of the area’s natural and cultural resources are still not fully explored. This study aims to map the distribution patterns of tourist attractions using GIS and evaluate the tourism development potential in Bumijawa Sub-district, Tegal Regency. The research employs nearest neighbor analysis to achieve the first goal and quantitative descriptive scoring for the second. The findings indicate that the distribution of tourist attractions in Bumijawa Sub-district is random, with a z-score of 0.7094. Tourism potential is assessed in three categories: external, internal, and combined. In Bumijawa Sub-district, the combined tourism potential ranges from low to high, with attractions such as Bukit Bintang, Curug Centel Waterfall, Sendang Bulakan, and Sindang Kemadu Lake showing low potential, while Guciku Waterboom and Guci Hot Springs are noted for their high potential.
Multispectral Insights into Turbidity Variations Over Time in The Derawan Island
Authors: Pamungkas Fajar Dwi , Manessa Masita Dwi Mandini , Supriatna  , Efriana Anisya Feby , Ayu Farida , Adi Novi Susetyo , Setiawan Kuncoro Teguh , Pryambodo Dino Gunawan , Mukhtar Mutia Kamalia , Maulidina Kintan
Published: November 2024

This investigation delves into the temporal and spatial dynamics of turbidity in the Derawan Islands, Indonesia, utilizing a comprehensive approach that combines multispectral satellite imagery from Sentinel-2, in-situ measurements via AAQ Licor sensors across 165 observation stations, and continuous data collection from a Turbidity Logger. Situated within the Coral Triangle, understanding the turbidity variations in the Derawan Islands is crucial for the conservation and sustainable management of its marine ecosystems. Our research developed and validated empirically derived algorithms to accurately estimate turbidity, utilizing a strategic partition of in-situ data—70% for model development and 30% for validation. This approach resulted in robust models, demonstrating their efficacy with Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) values as low as 0.85 and R-Squared (R2) values up to 0.56, indicating a high degree of accuracy in satellite-derived turbidity measurements. The study unveiled significant spatial and temporal turbidity heterogeneity, linking these variations to both natural and anthropogenic factors. The high-resolution data from the Turbidity Logger revealed critical diurnal fluctuations and short-term turbidity events, providing insights into the dynamic marine environment of the Derawan Islands.
Dynamics of Exposure and Sensitivity of Agricultural Sector to Climate Change in Yogyakarta Special Region as Observed by Geospatial Datasets
Authors: Zakariyah Mahmud , Wiwoho Bagus Setiabudi , Astuti Ike Sari , Kiloes Adhitya Marendra
Published: November 2024

The impact of climate change on agricultural productivity is evident. Higher temperatures, more extreme rainfall, and shorter growing seasons are leading to decreased agricultural yields. To address this, it is crucial to map the exposure and sensitivity of the agricultural sector to climate change in the Yogyakarta Special Region. This is especially important given the region’s heavy reliance on agriculture, particularly in Sleman, Bantul, Kulon Progo, and Gunungkidul Regencies. Mapping these factors aligns with the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) assessments. Exposure and sensitivity are evaluated using biophysical indicators over three periods: 2020, 2030, and 2050, under two Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP) scenarios, 4.5 and 8.5. The findings reveal three levels of exposure and sensitivity in the region: low, moderate, and high. Exposure values are projected to rise under both RCP scenarios across the studied periods. In Gunungkidul, Saptosari, Purwosari, Tanjungsari, and Panggang consistently exhibit high exposure levels, while Pakem and Cangkringan in Sleman maintain low exposure levels. Gedangsari and Rongkop in Gunungkidul show highest sensitivity, whereas Temon in Kulon Progo and Pakem in Sleman show lowest sensitivity. Therefore, it is important to develop plans to reduce these impacts.
Prediction of Land Cover Change in Pangkah Subdistrict, Tegal Regency, Indonesia Using Cellular Automata-Markov
Authors: Hakim M. A. , Hadibasyir H. Z. , Priyono K. D. , Sasmi A. T. , Surachman D.
Published: November 2024

Pangkah Subdistrict, strategically located next to Tegal Regency’s capital, is experiencing steady population growth. The growing population and rising demand for agricultural products create competition for land use. By integrating remote sensing with geographic information systems (GIS), it becomes possible to evaluate land-cover changes over time, forming a foundation for forecasting future land use in Tegal Regency. This study examines land-cover changes in Pangkah Subdistrict for the years 2007, 2015, and 2023, while also predicting land-cover for 2045 using the Cellular Automata-Markov method. The findings indicate a continuous increase in built-up land due to population growth, while agricultural land decreases each year. The modeling results will inform evaluations of spatial planning in Pangkah Subdistrict.
Monitoring Spatio-Temporal of Vegetation Indices Using NDVI and EVI Algorithms on Google Earth Engine (GEE) in Tuntang Watershed Area, Indonesia
Authors: Sari Dewi Novita , Rianti Dinia Izza , Sukmahati Satsabita Manik , Rini Atika Muzizati Puspita
Published: November 2024

Climate change affects increase rate in flood fluctuations, drought, and deforestation in watershed areas. The condition of Tuntang watershed has decreased in carrying capacity due to several factors. Google Earth Engine (GEE) is one of the significant technological breakthroughs in remote sensing and GIS. The aims to analyze the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI) in the Tuntang watershed using GEE and analyze spatio-temporal variations in vegetation density conditions. The method is processing NDVI and EVI algorithms for five years (2018-2022). This research to the full set of images acquired with the Sentinel-2A sensor between August 2018 and September 2022. The findings indicated that the highest forest area for five years with the NDVI method was in 2018, namely dense to very dense density of 716.92 Ha (54.78 %), while in the EVI method, the highest in 2020 was moderate to dense density of 504.58 Ha (38.55%). Based on the accuracy test, NDVI and EVI have the same accuracy overall of 83.33%, with a kappa index of 0.78 NDVI and 0.79 for EVI. Based on the correlation test, both methods have a correlation value of 0.799, indicating a strong and unidirectional relationship.
Assessment of Groundwater Vulnerability to Pollution in the Metro Hilir Watershed Using the SINTACS Method
Authors: Adi Wibowo Muhammad Farhan , Masitoh Ferryati
Published: November 2024

Assessment of groundwater vulnerability in the Metro Hilir watershed is necessary because most people use well water to meet basic needs. Identification and spatial analysis are the first steps to determine the potential for groundwater pollution in the area. The SINTACS method was used to assess the intrinsic vulnerability of groundwater using the parameters of groundwater table depth, effective infiltration, material in the unsaturated zone, soil texture type, aquifer media, hydraulic conductivity, and slope. Data processing was carried out by using Geographic Information System (GIS) techniques. Weight scenarios was used based on the hydrological conditions of the study area, namely “Normal Impact” and “Drainage/seepage”. The SINTACS index results was classified into several levels of vulnerability. The high vulnerability class is spread across the east to the south side, while the low vulnerability class is more dominant in the western area. The results of Sensitivity Analysis using the Map Removal technique showed that in both scenarios, soil texture parameters have the highest variation index value of 1.73% in the “Normal Impact” scenario and 2.13% in the “Drainage/Seepage” scenario. Parameters with high variation index values have a sensitive influence on vulnerability class values.
Improving dynamic energy absorption performance and stability loss prediction of an all-PET sandwich structure through artificial neural networks
Authors: Prodan Iulia Maria , Lache Simona , Berariu Andrei Ionut
Published: November 2024

One key characteristic that is frequently studied in composite sandwich structure mechanics is low-velocity impact performance.

Single polymer composites present higher ductility when compared to traditional glass fibre and carbon fibre reinforced plastic composites (GFRP, CFRP), which makes them strong candidates for impact energy absorption. These lightweight structures are also fully recyclable due to their all-PET constituents, an important aspect when considering possible applications.

In this paper an existing second order composite SrPET and PET foam sandwich structure (self-reinforced poly-ethylene terephthalate matrix and fibre) is numerically investigated for optimal structural design configuration under out-ofplane, low velocity, dynamic loading. The study explores the parametric geometry interdependencies of the structure’s configuration with respect to its energy absorption potential. The results are then compared to the quasi-static loading performance behaviour studied by M.N. Velea et all [1]. This work provides a deeper understanding of how geometry configurations can influence energy absorption capabilities highlighting structural strengths and weaknesses while exploring non-equilateral triangle configurations.

The Design Space Exploration (DSE) is carried out by using an optimization algorithm for a dynamic out of plane 3D impact simulation based on the finite element (FE) method software. The synergy between DSE and FE generates a guided simulation loop that can successfully be used to train a neural network to predict the dynamic behaviour of different geometric configurations from the exploration space.

Based on the data samples obtained, an artificial neural network (ANN) is built to predict the energy absorption capacity for a given set of structural design parameters, useful in experimental validation test cases.
A study of the effects of welding parameters on macrostructure properties and heat distribution in FSW of aluminium metal matrix composite
Authors: Pop-Calimanu Marius
Published: November 2024

The objective of this study is to present the effects of welding variables, specifically traverse speed and rotational speed, on the macrostructure of an aluminium metal matrix composite. This investigation includes comprehensive thermal monitoring and measurements within the weld joint area, utilizing infrared thermography to track the primary stages of friction stir welding (FSW). By examining different areas of the weld, to study aims to elucidate how temperature is distributed across the aluminium metal matrix composite in relation to the specific parameters of the FSW process, and to determine the subsequent impact on weld quality. Using infrared thermography, the researcher not only maps the thermal profile during welding, but also correlates these thermal variations with macrostructural changes in the aluminium metal matrix composite. This method allows for precise detection of temperature fluctuations and provides a detailed understanding of how traverse speed and rotational speed influence thermal distribution. Moreover, the study demonstrates the efficacy of thermography as a valuable tool for assessing weld quality. By capturing real-time thermal images, this technique enables the identification of potential defects and inconsistencies within the weld zone, facilitating a more thorough investigation into the integrity and performance of the welded joints. Ultimately, the findings aim to contribute to optimizing welding parameters on enhance the structural integrity and reliability of aluminium metal matrix composites in various applications.
Behaviour of AZ91 magnesium alloy in tension and torsion: experimental investigations and numerical modelling
Authors: Murariu Mihai-Alin , Rusu Lucian , Belgiu George , Serban Dan-Andrei
Published: November 2024

This study is concerned with the evaluation of the most appropriate plasticity model for simulating the behaviour of the AZ91 magnesium alloy in terms of accuracy and analysis times, based on experimental data obtained from tensile and torsion tests. The material was supplied in ingot form, was subsequently cut using and automated saw and ISO 6892 round specimens were obtained through lathing. The test data was used to calibrate three hardening functions, namely the multi-linear hardening, Johnson-Cook power law hardening and the Ramberg Osgood plasticity model, with the former determining the best results.
Influence of dealloying on wetting behavior and adhesion properties of Cu-Zr-Al-Ag glassy ribbons
Authors: Hididis Petru , Nicolaescu Mircea , Hulka Iosif , Serban Viorel-Aurel
Published: November 2024

This research aims to clarify the correlation between dealloying conditions, surface chemistry, and wettability behavior in Cu-based metallic glassy ribbons. Investigating the influence of dealloying on the wettability of Cubased glassy ribbons is the focus of this study. Glassy ribbons composed of the Cu-Zr-Al(-Ag) alloy family were dealloyed in hydrofluoric acid (HF) solution, with molarities ranging from 0.01 M to 0.5 M for durations between 2 and 10 minutes, followed by a thorough cleaning in distilled water. The impact of dealloying parameters on water droplet adhesion was evaluated together with the droplets’ ability to resist detachment after mechanical disturbances. Such insights are pivotal for the development of novel superhydrophobic or superhydrophilic materials, which could find applications in diverse fields such as microfluidics and oil-water separation technologies. The research demonstrates the substantial effects of dealloying on Cu-Zr-Al(-Ag) glassy ribbons, showing significant alterations in surface morphology, elemental composition, and wettability, all influenced by dealloying conditions
Characterization of the properties of arc-welded aluminum matrix syntactic foam-filled tubes
Authors: Pados Gábor , Kemény Alexandra , Norbert Orbulov Imre
Published: November 2024

In this research, the authors aimed to manufacture and weld in-situ composite foam-filled tubes from expanded clay aggregate particles, AlSi12 aluminum matrix, and AlMgSi0.5 tubes using tungsten inert gas welding. Subsequently, the quality of the welded joints was examined after precipitation hardening heat treatment and without heat treatment, followed by the evaluation of the results. The welded joints were characterized by microstructural examinations, microhardness measurements, and hardness testing. It was found that the hardness of the tube can be increased with heat treatment after the welding by 23 % on average and that the heat input of the welding process causes silicon enrichment due to diffusion within the AlMgSi0.5 tube, which is accelerated by the heat treatment cycle.
Design and structural optimization of an assembled re-entrant auxetic structure
Authors: Șerban Dan-Andrei
Published: November 2024

Auxetics represent a class of metamaterials that possess the unique quality of exhibiting a negative Poisson ratio. Considering the fact that the cross-section is reduced during compressive loadings, this class of materials and structures exhibit superior energy absorption capabilities in impact loadings, as the density of the material increases near the contact region. In this study, a novel approach in obtaining re-entrant auxetic structures is presented, consisting of the assembly and joining of components with simple geometries, that can be manufactured through conventional means (as opposed to additive manufacturing). The dimensions and aspect ratios of the structural members was evaluated numerically in order to obtain the optimal stiffness and strength values for a given mass. The design aspect also included special features that allows the assembly through shape, which facilitates the subsequent joining operation (welding or brazing).
Exploring Antifungic Properties of Low Vacuum Dealloyed Recycled Brass Nanoporous Powder
Authors: Thalmaier Gyorgy , Argentina Sechel Niculina , Vida-Simiti Ioan , Hegyi Andreea
Published: November 2024

Fungal infections pose a significant health concern globally, due to the evermore common resistance to classical antifungal therapies. One possible way to overcome this tendency is to use new pathways offered by the nanotechnology. In this respect it has been studied the possibility of utilizing recycled waste in the form of brass machining chips that are transformed into micron-porous copper (particles) by vacuum dealloying. In a subsequent step it was evidenced the potential antifungal properties. To manufacture the samples powder metallurgy was combined with vacuum dealloying, and a complex characterization to study the possible utilization of these powders at a laboratory level. The machined precursor powders were low vacuum dealloyed (P∼10-1 torr) at 500 ˚C, 550 ˚C, 600 ˚C and 650 ˚C, and the dealloying time was set between 1-4 hours. The porous particles were characterized by SEM-EDS analysis. The antifungal property was evaluated by exposing the samples on a medium of Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) previously contaminated with a solution of Aspergillus Niger spores. The growth of fungi was analysed daily up to seven days using optical microscopy.
Nanoporous Cu-based amorphous alloys prepared by selective dissolution in acidic media
Authors: Ambruș Sebastian , Muntean Roxana , Buzdugan Dragos , Codrean Cosmin
Published: November 2024

Functional nanoporous materials are considered a significant category of nanostructured materials that exhibit distinct characteristics like high surface area, porosity, and improved mass transport properties. These qualities render them suitable for a wide range of applications including catalysis, energy storage, biomedical fields, and electrochemical sensors. Dealloying or laser-induced technologies are the primary methods employed to fabricate such nanoporous materials.

Dealloying is a dependable top-down approach used to produce hierarchical, disordered nanoporous materials with customizable pore sizes in the range of a few nanometers. The process of dealloying involves the selective elimination or dissolution of one or more elements from an alloy through a corrosion mechanism, using various dealloying techniques, such as chemical, electrochemical, liquid metal, or vapor phase dealloying. In the present study, copper-based amorphous metallic ribbons (Cu75Ni6Sn5P10Ga4) were initially manufactured using the melt-spinning method. The Cu-based amorphous ribbons were structurally investigated by X-ray diffraction and thermal analysis. Subsequently, the ribbons were subjected to a dealloying treatment, using an acidic solution to selectively dissolve the nickel from their composition and to obtain a nanoporous structure. The microstructure and chemical composition of the ribbons before and after the dealloying process were investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), combined with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The dealloying process performed in 1 M H2SO4 solution at 25 °C for 60 minutes leads to a large number of nanopores, uniformly distributed onto the surface of the Cu-based ribbons.
Evaluation of Artichoke Extract as a Corrosion Inhibitor for Copper and OL45 in Aggressive Environments
Authors: Dima George-Daniel , Laurențiu Dan Mircea , Rudenko Nataliia , Faur Alin , George Vaszilcsin Cristian
Published: November 2024

Metal corrosion is a significant issue in areas such as transport, construction, or production, with effects on equipment productivity, user safety, and finally, the costs related to the replacement of affected components. Research in recent years has focused on the discovery of substances capable of significantly reducing the corrosion rate of metals and alloys with a minimal impact on the environment. A promising category of green corrosion inhibitors represents active components from natural extracts. Corrosion experiments have been focused on the use of artichoke (Cynara scolymus) stem extract as a corrosion inhibitor for copper and mild steels such as OL45 in H2SO4 0.5 mol L-1 and NaCl 3.5% environments. The electrochemical behaviour of the active components in the artichoke extract was studied using cyclic voltammetry on Pt electrode, and their inhibitory effect has been demonstrated by using electrochemical techniques such as linear voltammetry at a speed of 1 mV s-1 and chronoamperometry method in the absence, respectively, presence of 1, 2, 4, and 8 g L-1 extract. The variation of parameters such as corrosion potential Ecorr, corrosion current icorr, and impedance values with increasing concentrations shows that the artichoke extract greatly reduces the corrosion rate. To complement the corrosion studies carried out, quantum chemical calculations were performed by using the B3LYP/6-31G* basis set, and the descriptors EHOMO, ELUMO, dipole moment, ionization energy, and molecular hardness substantiated the inhibitory effect. Considering artichoke extract components, this study presents a potential prospect for using natural extracts in anti-corrosion protection as well as an ecological alternative to standard corrosion inhibitors.
Evaluation of the layering adhesion between PLA and TPE materials
Authors: Murariu Gabriel , Marin-Corciu Matei , Galațanu Sergiu-Valentin
Published: November 2024

The additive manufacturing industry has witnessed rapid growth and has applications across various sectors such as aerospace, automotive, healthcare, and consumer goods. Both Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) and Polylactic Acid (PLA) hold significant relevance in these industries because of their unique properties and environmental sustainability, thus driving the demand for research aimed at improving their compatibility and performance in multi-material printing processes. This study delves into the interlayer adhesion aspects of multi-material filament fabrication, particularly focusing on the incorporation of TPE and PLA. TPEs offer elasticity and flexibility, while PLA provides rigidity and biodegradability, making them an intriguing combination for a wide range of applications. Experimental investigations of mechanical properties, specifically tensile, compression, and Charpy impact tests, are conducted to evaluate the interlayer adhesion between TPE and PLA. This study aims to contribute to the understanding of interlayer adhesion in multi-material filament fabrication, focusing on the integration of TPE and PLA. Through experimental analysis and exploration of industrial applications, we seek to shed light on the potential of these materials in additive manufacturing and outline future directions for research and development in this field.
Initial stages of water absorption on CeO2 surfaces at very low temperatures for understanding anti-icing coatings
Authors: Åsland A C , Cooil S P , Mamedov D , Røst H I , Bakkelund J , Li Z , Karazhanov S , Wells J W
Published: November 2024

Anti-icing coatings are intended to prevent ice formation on surfaces, minimising the risk of surface-related damage and also reducing ice-related hazards in society. We demonstrate the usefulness of x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) as a tool for investigating the anti-icing properties of surfaces simultaneously with their chemical composition by looking at the initial stages of water absorption on the surface of CeO2 coatings. CeO2 coatings are robust, hydrophobic, and transmit light, thus they are suitable for a range of applications. In this work, CeO2 coatings were grown by sputter deposition and transferred to an ultra-high vacuum chamber where they were cooled to  ≈ 100 K and exposed to a H2O atmosphere at 1 × 10−8 mbar. XPS measurements were performed before and after the exposure to H2O, in-situ and at cryogenic temperatures. The chemical composition of CeO2 did not change significantly during the experiment. Additionally, XPS revealed that little to no ice formed on the surface of CeO2 after the H2O exposure at  ≈ 100 K. In contrast, ice was observed all over the sample holder on which the CeO2 was mounted. These findings suggest CeO2 is a promising candidate for future anti-icing coatings and that XPS is a useful technique to investigate the anti-icing properties of surfaces.
A statistical-based automatic detection of a low-contrast object in the ACR CT phantom for measuring contrast-to-noise ratio of CT images
Authors: Anam Choirul , Amilia Riska , Naufal Ariij , Fujibuchi Toshioh , Dougherty Geoff
Published: November 2024

Purpose. This study aimed to develop a new method for automated contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) measurement using the low-contrast object in the ACR computed tomography (CT) phantom. Methods. The proposed method for CNR measurement was based on statistical criteria. A region of interest (ROI) was placed in a specific radial location and was then rotated around 360° in increments of 2°. At each position, the average CT number within the ROI was calculated. After one complete rotation, a profile of the average CT number around the full rotation was obtained. The center coordinate of the low-contrast object was determined from the maximum value of the profile. The CNR was calculated based on the average CT number and noise within the ROI in the low-contrast object and the ROI in the background, i.e., at the center of the phantom. The proposed method was used to evaluate CNR from images scanned with various phantom rotations, images with various noise levels (tube currents), and images from 25 CT scanners. The results were compared to a previous method based on a threshold approach. Results. The proposed method successfully placed the ROI properly in the center of a low-contrast object for variations of phantom rotation and tube current, whereas was not properly located in the center of the low-contrast object using the previous method. In addition, from 325 image samples of the 25 CT scanners, the proposed method successfully (100%) located the ROI within the low-contrast objects of all images used. The success rate of the previous method was only 58%. Conclusion. A new method for measuring CNR in the ACR CT phantom has been proposed and implemented. It is more powerful than a previous method based on a threshold approach.
Optimal vegetation coverage from the perspective of ecosystem services in the Qilian Mountains
Authors: Ruan Junling , Li Zongxing , Zhang Xiaoping , Jian Xue , Wang Dongpeng
Published: November 2024

The Qilian Mountains (QLMs) serve as a vital ecological security barrier in the northwest China, determining the optimal fractional vegetation cover (FVC) of different land-use types is crucial for ecological restoration and protection. Based on the normalized vegetation index, meteorological data, soil data and land-use data, the InVEST model, bivariate spatial autocorrelation and elastic analysis, we calculated the water conservation, soil conservation and carbon storage, analyzed the spatio-temporal distribution characteristics of FVC and ecosystem services (ES) and the correlation between them. This study aims to evaluate the optimal FVC of the different land-use types and vegetation restoration’s effect on it in the QLMs. The results showed that the FVC and ES showed an increasing trend from 2000 to 2020, with a spatial distribution pattern of high values in the southeast and low values in the northwest. There was a significant and positive correlation between FVC and ecosystem service functions (p < 0.05), FVC had the most obvious effect on soil conservation, followed by water conservation. The optimal FVC varied by land-use type, with its value between 0.4 and 0.48 for forest land, 0.24 and 0.30 for grassland and 0.19 to 0.20 for unused land. In the eastern of the QLMs, nearly 70% of the forests and 50% of the grasslands exceeded the optimal vegetation coverage, while 36% of the grasslands and 62% of the unused lands were under-covered in the western of the QLMs. The findings suggest that differentiated ecological restoration and management measures should be formulated according to the status of vegetation restoration, to enhance the comprehensive capacity of ecosystem services in the QLMs.
Climate data integration into wheat performance evaluation reveals large inter-varietal responses
Authors: Raymond Joanna , Penfield Steven , Lovett Andrew , Mackay Ian , Philpott Haidee , Simpson Conor John Christopher , Dorling Stephen
Published: November 2024

There is an urgent need to adapt crop breeding strategies to boost resilience in the face of a growing food demand and a changing climate. Achieving this requires an understanding of how weather and climate variability impacts crop growth and development. Using the United Kingdom (UK) as an example, we evaluate changes in the UK agroclimate and analyse how these have influenced domestic wheat production. Here we quantify spatial and temporal variability and changes in weather and climate across growing seasons over the last four decades (1981–2020). Drawing on variety trial data, we then use statistical modelling to explore the interaction between genotype and agroclimate variation.

We show that changes in the UK agroclimate present both risks, and opportunities for wheat growers, depending on location. From 1981–2020, in Wales, the West Midlands, large parts of the North West, and Northern Ireland, there was an overall increase in frost risk in early spring of 0.15 additional frost days per year, whilst in the east early frost risk decreased by up to 0.29 d per year. Meanwhile, over the period 1987–2020, surface incoming shortwave radiation during grainfill increased in the east by up to 13% but decreased in Western areas by up to 15%. We show significant inter-varietal differences in yield responses to growing degree days, heavy rainfall, and the occurrence of late frost. This highlights the importance of evaluating variety-climate interactions in variety trial analyses, and in climate-optimised selection of crops and varieties by growers. This work provides guidance for future research on how climate change is affecting the UK agroclimate and resulting impacts on winter cereal production.
Deception and Sexual Consent
Authors: Boonin David
Published: November 2024

This chapter provides an explanation of, and a critical response to, Tom Dougherty’s influential argument for the claim that deceiving someone into saying yes to sex is seriously wrong even in cases where the deception is about relatively trivial or superficial matters like a person’s job or natural hair color. The first section of this chapter presents Dougherty’s argument as resting on two key claims. His first claim maintains that every act of sex without valid consent is seriously wrong. His second claim maintains that if one person deceives another into consenting to sex, their consent is invalid even if the deception is about relatively trivial or superficial matters. The second section of this chapter defends Dougherty’s second claim against the many objections that have been raised against it in the literature his argument has generated. The third section of this chapter presents and defends an important objection to Dougherty’s first claim and argues that the objection can be used to justify rejecting both Dougherty’s argument and Dougherty’s conclusion.
Two Challenges to Common-sense Psychology
Authors: Borg Emma
Published: November 2024

Experimental work on ordinary decision-making apparently shows, contra the approach of common-sense psychology (CP), that very often people fail to consult their reasons and instead act on gut-feels and intuitions, plagued by biases and flaws in reasoning. However, while there is general agreement that the experimental work in question undermines the CP approach, getting clear on the precise worry takes work. I identify two distinct objections opponents of CP might have in mind: first, that people do not look to reasons at all when deciding what to do. Second, that people tend not to look to reasons properly. I label these the No Reasons and the Insufficient Reasons challenges. This chapter explores both challenges and sets out the evidence for them.
The Nature of Rationality
Authors: Borg Emma
Published: November 2024

Assessments of heuristic use as rational or irrational can only take place relative to background assumptions about the nature of rationality. Thus this chapter explores common-sense psychology’s (CP’s) understanding of rational decision-making. The chapter sketches two approaches—Classical Rational Choice and Bounded Rationality—and examines the status of heuristic decision-making within each model. In line with work by Gerd Gigerenzer, the instrumental value of heuristics is stressed, but it is argued that (on its own) this is insufficient for nullifying the challenges that heuristic use pose for CP. To see this, the chapter closes by considering the properties that are commonly taken to characterize heuristics, sketching the ‘Dual Process’ or ‘Two System’ approach endorsed by many advocates of the Heuristics and Biases programme. This framework makes clear that heuristic decision-making lies in opposition to the kind of logical processing of mental states where CP has its home.
Heuristics as Rules of Thumb
Authors: Borg Emma
Published: November 2024

On one understanding of heuristics, they are ‘rules of thumb’ or ‘cognitive shortcuts’: approximating or associative rules which avoid long-winded logical thinking. This view gives rise to an ‘Insufficient Reasons challenge’ to common-sense psychology (CP), which holds that the way in which we typically handle the search for, and accommodation of, evidence is so poor that heuristic-driven decisions and actions fail to make the grade as rational. This chapter explores this challenge, first by clarifying the claim that heuristic processes are rules of thumb and then by seeing why we might believe that heuristic-based decision-making is flawed. A significant part of the answer to this latter question comes from the realization that our evidence accrual and accommodation practices are subject to a number of biases (such as myside bias), biases which apparently make it more likely that heuristic decision-making relies on systematically weak or flawed evidence.
Objections to Behaviour-reading Accounts
Authors: Borg Emma
Published: November 2024

Behaviour-reading approaches to action understanding claim that the ape, the infant, and even the adult human (under time or other pressures) achieves an understanding of the actions of others without attributing or reasoning about the other’s mental states. However, behaviour-reading accounts face two main problems. First, some theorists have rejected the claim that behaviour-reading models are explanatorily adequate. These theorists point to experimental evidence that animals, infants, and adults under pressure engage in more than just behaviour-reading when seeking to understand the actions of others. Secondly, it seems the claim that behaviour-reading models are to be preferred, on theoretical grounds, to mentalizing approaches can be rejected on theoretical grounds. This chapter explores both these worries and argues that it is the theoretical grounds which (currently) cause the most serious problems for behaviour-reading models.
Common-sense Psychology Vindicated
Authors: Borg Emma
Published: November 2024

This chapter explores the challenge to common-sense psychology (CP) posed by deflationary accounts of action understanding, distinguishing between supplanting and supplementing versions. Supplanting versions argue for the almost total replacement of CP by a simpler account, while supplementary versions argue for a simpler approach for infants and/or animals, leaving claims about typical adult action understanding untouched. I argue that, while supplanting versions clearly undermine CP, the dispute with supplementary views is more nuanced. It is then argued that the supplanting challenge to CP can be rejected, while the supplementing challenge is undercut by the moderate account of reasons and reasoning adopted throughout the book. Together with the defence of CP’s account of action generation in previous chapters, this defence of CP’s model of action understanding completes the defence of the common-sense view. Despite apparent empirical evidence to the contrary, we should preserve the view that, typically, people do what they do for the reasons they have.
Poverty Politics and State Formation
Authors: McClure Julia
Published: November 2024

This chapter maps how, as the sixteenth century progressed, the Habsburg rulers Charles V and Philip II attempted to consolidate and expand the Spanish imperial state through the expansion and reform of laws and institutions relating to the governance of the poor and poor relief. The Crown engaged with intellectuals and policy writers to negotiate this changing moral-political landscape. Institutional and legal reforms concerning new concepts of poverty were fundamental to the formation of the state in the early modern period. New laws and institutions formed the basis of a new moral-political economy and form of population governance, complete with new moral hierarchies which laid the foundation for the inequalities of the Spanish imperial state.
Making Indigenous Poverty for a New World
Authors: McClure Julia
Published: November 2024

The construction of Indigenous and Afro-descendant peoples as particular categories of ‘the poor’ was a critical part of the development of the colonial society of the Spanish Empire. This chapter traces the processes through which Indigenous people were constructed as poor legally, socio-culturally, and economically. It also considers the different ways in which Afro-descendants came to be seen in different ways in the Spanish Empire. Newly emerging moral differentiations of ‘deserving’ and ‘undeserving’ poor were used to differentiate different types of colonial subjects. In doing so it highlights the way in which moral-political concepts of poverty helped shape proto-racial inequalities. This chapter also explores how Indigenous and Afro-descendant peoples used moral-political concepts to resist and negotiate for status and other resources.
Finesse in Gender Affirming Frontal Contouring With Corrugator Resection
Authors: Hu Kevin G , Ihnat Jacqueline , Parikh Neil , Vassallo Melanie , Almeida Mariana , Alper David P , Prassinos Alexandre , Aral Ali , Vasquez Tito , Alperovich Michael
Published: November 2024

Given the significance of forehead aesthetics to facial gender identification, frontal sinus setback and brow contouring are frequent components of facial feminization surgery (FFS) in transgender female patients. This study presents a safe and reliable technique for corrugator muscle resection during FFS to provide enhanced feminization of the forehead. This technique was performed in 12 patients between 27 and 58 years of age. Following bone reduction and sinus setback, the corrugator is located on the undersurface of the forehead flap and dissected through the reflected soft tissue of the forehead, with care taken to protect the supraorbital nerve. Patient satisfaction and complications, such as infection, poor wound healing, scarring, and desire for revision surgery, were assessed at follow-up visits. All patients showed improved feminization of the forehead. No complications were reported intraoperatively or postoperatively, and no patients required hospitalization beyond the expected overnight admission. No patients reported anesthesia or hypoesthesia in the distribution of the supraorbital nerve at 6 months postoperatively. Patients reported high satisfaction with their FFS outcomes. In conclusion, performing corrugator resection in conjunction with FFS is a safe and rapid technique that may significantly enhance the feminizing effects on the forehead of frontal sinus setback and brow contouring.

Level of Evidence: 4 (Therapeutic)
mbDriver: identifying driver microbes in microbial communities based on time-series microbiome data
Authors: Tan Xiaoxiu , Xue Feng , Zhang Chenhong , Wang Tao
Published: November 2024

Alterations in human microbial communities are intricately linked to the onset and progression of diseases. Identifying the key microbes driving these community changes is crucial, as they may serve as valuable biomarkers for disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. However, there remains a need for further research to develop effective methods for addressing this critical task. This is primarily because defining the driver microbe requires consideration not only of each microbe’s individual contributions but also their interactions. This paper introduces a novel framework, called mbDriver, for identifying driver microbes based on microbiome abundance data collected at discrete time points. mbDriver comprises three main components: (i) data preprocessing of time-series abundance data using smoothing splines based on the negative binomial distribution, (ii) parameter estimation for the generalized Lotka-Volterra (gLV) model using regularized least squares, and (iii) quantification of each microbe’s contribution to the community’s steady state by manipulating the causal graph implied by gLV equations. The performance of nonparametric spline-based denoising and regularized least squares estimation is comprehensively evaluated on simulated datasets, demonstrating superiority over existing methods. Furthermore, the practical applicability and effectiveness of mbDriver are showcased using a dietary fiber intervention dataset and an ulcerative colitis dataset. Notably, driver microbes identified in the dietary fiber intervention dataset exhibit significant effects on the abundances of short-chain fatty acids, while those identified in the ulcerative colitis dataset show a significant correlation with metabolism-related pathways.
Fast standard error estimation for joint models of longitudinal and time-to-event data based on stochastic EM algorithms
Authors: Yu Tingting , Wu Lang , Bosch Ronald J , Smith Davey M , Wang Rui
Published: November 2024

Maximum likelihood inference can often become computationally intensive when performing joint modeling of longitudinal and time-to-event data, due to the intractable integrals in the joint likelihood function. The computational challenges escalate further when modeling HIV-1 viral load data, owing to the nonlinear trajectories and the presence of left-censored data resulting from the assay’s lower limit of quantification. In this paper, for a joint model comprising a nonlinear mixed-effect model and a Cox Proportional Hazards model, we develop a computationally efficient Stochastic EM (StEM) algorithm for parameter estimation. Furthermore, we propose a novel technique for fast standard error estimation, which directly estimates standard errors from the results of StEM iterations and is broadly applicable to various joint modeling settings, such as those containing generalized linear mixed-effect models, parametric survival models, or joint models with more than two submodels. We evaluate the performance of the proposed methods through simulation studies and apply them to HIV-1 viral load data from six AIDS Clinical Trials Group studies to characterize viral rebound trajectories following the interruption of antiretroviral therapy (ART), accounting for the informative duration of off-ART periods.
Effects of parental socioeconomic status on offspring’s fetal neurodevelopment
Authors: Mathan Julia , Maximino-Pinheiro Mélanie , He Qin , Rezende Gabriela , Menu Iris , Tissier Cloelia , Salvia Emilie , Mevel Katell , Le Stanc Lorna , Vidal Julie , Moyon Marine , Delalande Lisa , Orliac Francois , Poirel Nicolas , Oppenheim Catherine , Houdé Olivier , Chaumette Boris , Borst Grégoire , Cachia Arnaud
Published: November 2024

Emerging evidence underscores the prenatal period's critical role in shaping later cognition and health, influenced by an intricate interplay of parental genetic and environmental factors. Birth weight is commonly used as a retrospective indicator of fetal development, but recent focus has shifted to more specific proxies of neurodevelopment, like cortical sulcal patterns, which are established in utero and remain stable after birth. This study aimed to elucidate the interrelated effects of parental socioeconomic status, brain volume, birth weight, and sulcal patterns in the anterior cingulate cortex. Utilizing structural Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), parental educational attainment, and related polygenic risk scores, the study analyzed 203 healthy right-handed participants aged 9 to 18. Structural equation modeling demonstrated that the anterior cingulate cortex sulcal pattern is influenced by parental socioeconomic status and global brain volume, with socioeconomic status correlating with a polygenic risk score. These findings suggest that prenatal neurodevelopmental processes may mediate the intergenerational transmission of inequalities.