bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Credible, Competent Contributors: Children and Young People as Postdigital Citizen Social Scientists
Authors: MacKenzie Alison
Published: October 2024

I argue that participatory action research (PAR) is a valuable means by which to advance citizen social science, not by researching with and on adults, but with children and young people (CYP). Given the right opportunities, using child-friendly and child-centred research methods, CYP can be credible, competent contributors to social science, including the digital environment. The foundational goals of PAR are empowerment, transformation, and enfranchisement of the traditionally marginalised, and none are more universally and structurally marginalised than CYP. Using a child rights argument, I explain why CYP continue to be excluded from research and why there is still so much scepticism that CYP are credible contributors. One reason is childism, a system of oppression, prejudice, and discrimination against CYP on account of their perceived status as not yet human and not fully rational beings. Childism entails the belief that adults are automatically superior to children. I argue further that CYP’s participation in postdigital social science research enacts the entitlements in Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), even though state parties, having ratified this landmark convention, find it very challenging to do more than simply laud its aims. Using three case studies of CYP’s contribution to research and human rights activism, I make the case that they are expert knowers of their own social and digital experiences and have the skills and insights to examine their social worlds in ways that adult researchers too easily overlook, downplay, or simply ignore. As importantly is that CYP are expert users of digital and social media. Their epistemic and ontological experiences as users, creators, contributors, and disseminators of content, and as targets of malign actors, must be included in any research, policy, or law.
Multi-method soil moisture monitoring at two temperate forest stands in Germany
Authors: Fäth Julian , Kneisel Christof
Published: October 2024

Many forests suffer increased drought stress due to climate change, particularly impacting Central Europe. However, our understanding considering drought stress and resulting tree mortality remains incomplete. For addressing this issue, fine-scale water balance assessment as well as robust and spatially integrating measures on large scales are necessary for forest ecosystem monitoring. The latter is particularly important to provide reliable data sets for verifying remote sensing and hydrological modelling products. Various traditional in-situ methods exist for assessing the water balance in forest ecosystems as for instance measuring the water content or matric potential. However, the spatial limitations of these methods have led to an increased importance of Cosmic Ray Neutron Sensing (CRNS) in the last two decades whose measuring signal is integrated over a larger area. We equipped two forest monitoring plots with ECH2O probes, Tensiomark soil systems, and installed a CRNS station at one site to measure soil water content and matric potential at different soil depths and distances to trees from November 2020 till November 2023. The results indicate distinct temporal and spatial variations influenced by meteorological conditions and soil properties, but also forest characteristics. The year 2022 is identified as exceptionally dry, causing high drought stress at one of the forest sites. The comparison between CRNS and traditional methods reveals a strong correlation, highlighting CRNS' potential in forest monitoring as a promising tool for an area wide assessment of water availability in forest ecosystems. Our study further advocates for the need of tree species-specific thresholds to assess matric potential in relation to drought stress in order to better assess the impact of climate change on our forest ecosystems.
Parkinson’s Disease Detection by Using Machine Learning Method based on Local Classification on Class Boundary
Authors: Du Qiuyang , Shen Jinan , Wen Pengcheng , Chen Xinpeng
Published: October 2024

Parkinson’s disease (PD) detection has long been an important task in medical intelligence. Recognition methods based on speech signals show great potential in Parkinson’s disease diagnosis. In this paper, based on an efficient machine learning method for Parkinson’s disease detection, we take the use of test data incorporates an efficient Secure Two-Party Computing (S2PC) protocol to protect the privacy of patients. We present two key components, the secure use of data and a local classification methodology, including the description of class boundaries. We conducted experiments on two datasets to validate our proposed method, and the results show well data security protection ability compared to some more sophisticated methods. And the performance of Local Classification on Class Boundary(LCCB) and Hyperplane K-Nearest Neighbor(HKNN) is significantly better than that of both Support Vector Machines(SVM) and Random Forest(RF). When the number of selected features is from 400 to 500, HKNN and LCCB are roughly equal where the accuracy of HKNN is 95.2%, and LCCB has the rate of 94.7%. Then we use Multi-Cluster Feature Selection(MCFS) to analyze and select the important features from D2 dataset. It shows that even if only two features are selected, the boundaries of the two categories are also clear and easy to distinguish.
Evaluation of WRF model performance with different microphysics schemes for extreme rainfall prediction in Lagos, Nigeria: Implications for urban flood risk management
Authors: Oyegbile Oluwatobi , Chan Andy , Ooi Maggie , Anwar Parvez , Mohamed Abdullahi Ali , Li Li
Published: October 2024

In Nigeria, particularly in urban areas like Lagos, flooding is a frequent natural hazard. In 2011, Lagos experienced one of its worst floods resulting in significant economic losses and displacement of people. In recent years, Lagos has continued to grapple with flooding challenges, with an equally significant flood episode occurring in 2021. This study focuses on predicting floods and forecasting extremely heavy rainfall in West Africa's equatorial zone using the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model, particularly in humid tropical environments like Lagos. The study discusses the need to review existing flood models and adopt alternative flood models to address the limitations of flood prediction. As potential causes of these rainfall episodes, the interconnections between synoptic systems such as tropical easterly waves, southwesterly winds related to the West African Monsoon, and local topography and oceanic conditions are investigated. Three key metrics: root mean square error (RMSE), mean bias (MB), and mean absolute error (MAE) are used to assess the effectiveness of the computational model. Results indicate that the WRF model, specifically when using the Thompson parameterisation, can estimate the amount of rainfall accumulated over a 24-h period. This suggests that the model can predict the size of daily precipitation during intense rain events. The Thompson scheme shows better performance compared to the WSM6 scheme while evaluating the stations and episodes. During the rainfall episode on July 10, 2011, Thompson's spatial rainfall predictions were better than WSM6, resulting in a decrease in root mean square error (RMSE) of 15–31% depending on the area. Simulations of the July 2021 episode also show better performance, with a decrease in RMSE of 11–25% when comparing Thompson to WSM6 scheme. The Thompson scheme’s improved ability is directly linked to a more accurate depiction of the microphysical mechanisms that control the rainfall formation. By explicitly simulating the dynamics of ice crystals and graupel, it is possible to accurately replicate the processes of orographic lifting and moist convection that are responsible for driving intense monsoon precipitation. In addition, Thompson scheme shows a reduced degree of systemic bias in comparison to WSM6, with a 75% reduction in the average bias in rainfall accumulation over the research area. The combination of the advanced Thompson microphysics method and WRF's atmospheric dynamics shows a high level of accuracy in predicting intense rainfall and the risk of floods in this area with diverse tropical topography.
Formation of concavities on the ends of parts manufactured on CNC skew rolling mills
Authors: Pater Zbigniew , Bulzak Tomasz , Tomczak Janusz , Shu Xuedao , Xia Yingxiang
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the problem of concavity formation on the ends of parts manufactured on CNC skew rolling mills. Numerical modeling and Taguchi method were used to determine the effects of the main parameters of skew rolling (i.e., forming angle, skew angle, reduction ratio, temperature, steel grade, dimeter ratio, velocity ratio) on the depth of concavities formed on the product ends. The simulations showed that the only parameter to have a significant impact on the concavity depth was the reduction ratio. The FEM results were then used to establish equations for calculating concavity depth and allowance for excess material with concavity. For more universality, the established equations took into account the billet diameter. The experimental validation showed high agreement between the numerical and the experimental concavity depths.
Cybercrime in Nordic countries: a scoping review on demographic, socioeconomic, and technological determinants
Authors: Padyab Mojgan , Padyab Ali , Rostami Amir , Ghazinour Mehdi
Published: October 2024

Knowledge of factors contributing to cybercrime threats is needed to plan effective prevention strategies to combat the increasingly common occurrence of cybercrime. This scoping review summarizes current status of the literature published on the demographic, socioeconomic, and technological determinants of cybercrime offenders and victims in Nordic countries. The review followed Arksey and O’Malley’s methodology and the PRISMA-ScR guidelines, leading to the selection of 16 articles published between 2013 and 2022 for critical appraisal and data extraction. Only two studies focused on cybercrime offenders. The majority of studies (n = 10) were conducted in Finland and the dominant types of crime were harassment and online hate. Age, gender, living alone, immigration background, income, and education played different roles in determining victimization for different types of cybercrime. Associations between victimization and technological factors such as computer skills, protective measures, and specific platforms have also been identified. This review contributes to the emerging research area of cybercrime in Nordic countries by mapping the context of cybercrime and highlighting areas where further research is needed to ensure the protection of individuals in an increasingly digitalized world.
Assessing microplastic abundances in freshwater fishes in a subtropical African reservoir
Authors: Dalu Tatenda , Themba Samkelisiwe T. , Dondofema Farai , Wu Naicheng , Munyai Linton F.
Published: October 2024

Microplastics are emerging pollutants of global concern, and their presence in the aquatic environment poses a serious risk for aquatic biota. While many studies have been conducted on the presence of microplastics in marine habitats, little research has been done in freshwater African reservoirs on microplastic pollution and their impacts on fish within the subtropical regions. To bridge this gap, the current study investigated microplastic abundances and distribution in freshwater fish within Nandoni reservoir, South Africa, across two seasons (i.e., hot–wet, cool–dry). Fish were randomly sampled using seine and gill nets from seven sites within the reservoir. In the laboratory, fish were then sorted according to taxa before dissecting them to remove the gills and the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). The organs were digested using hot hydrochloric acid and hydrogen peroxide, and the microplastics were classified according to their colours and shapes. Among the 94 fishes (i.e., 8 species) examined, microplastics were detected in 86.6% of the eight species caught. Microplastics were dominant in the gills and GIT during the cool–dry and hot–wet seasons, respectively. High microplastic abundances were found in the gills of Micropterus salmoides and the GIT of Coptodon rendalli, where fibres and the transparent colour were the most dominant. The results further showed high microplastic abundances in benthopelagic feeders highlighting that habitat influences fish consumption of microplastics whether directly or indirectly. Significant differences were observed in the feeding zone and season for all microplastic types. Microplastic sources in the reservoirs could be due to anthropogenic activities such as illegal dumping, fishing, and agriculture. Thus, there is a need for further investigation into the relation of fish weight, fish sex and body in relation to microplastic pollution. The highlighted ecological factors should be taken into consideration for future research and management actions aimed at mitigating and protecting the negative impacts of microplastic pollution on environmental and human health.
University forests and carbon sequestration: an untapped potential
Authors: Leal Filho Walter , Luetz Johannes M. , Dinis Maria Alzira Pimenta
Published: October 2024

The role of universities in addressing climate change is often discussed, but one crucial aspect tends to be overlooked: their potential contribution to carbon sequestration. Many universities around the world possess significant tracts of land, often featuring substantial forested areas. These landscapes represent an underutilised opportunity for nature-based solutions that facilitate carbon sequestration. This paper discusses the current trends and status of university-owned forests, highlighting some of the largest and most ecologically significant forests managed by academic institutions across different regions worldwide. It explores their capacity for carbon sequestration, their biodiversity value, and the potential they hold for contributing to global climate change mitigation efforts. Furthermore, the article examines how these university forests can serve as dynamic, living laboratories for research, education, and conservation, as well as spaces for community engagement. In addition to their environmental benefits, these green spaces can enhance human health and well-being. Based on this analysis, the paper offers recommendations for universities on how to optimise their forested lands as carbon sinks and enhance their role in advancing sustainable practices, research, and education.

Graphical abstract
Impact of body-focused social media on parenting confidence among postpartum moms as tested using an experimental design
Authors: Petresin Tamara , Tang Lisa , Haines Jess
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to understand the impact of social media on postpartum mothers’ parenting confidence among participants in the Moms on Media Study, an experimental mixed methods study.

Methods

We used an embedded mixed methods approach among a sample of postpartum mothers of infants aged 0–6 months who were randomly assigned to view either body focused social media posts (experimental group, n = 65) or infant feeding tips (control group, n = 67) over a 5 day period. ANCOVA was used to examine differences between the experimental and control group on parenting confidence at post-intervention and 1 month follow-up. A subsample of mothers in the experimental group (n = 20) took part in semi-structured interviews post-intervention. Thematic analysis was used to identify themes and subthemes generated from the data.

Results

Counter to expectations, ANCOVA results show that at post-intervention mothers who viewed the body-focused posts scored significantly higher for total parenting confidence (mean difference = 1.36), parenting confidence (mean difference = 0.89), and support confidence (mean difference = 0.53). These differences in total parenting confidence (mean difference = 2.03), parenting confidence (mean difference = 1.40) and support confidence (mean difference = 0.50) were sustained at 1-month follow up. No significant differences were found for child development confidence between the experimental and control group at either post-intervention or 1-month follow-up. Qualitative analysis revealed that many mothers described feeling better about their parenting after viewing body-focused social media posts where they felt mothers were overly focused on their own image versus spending time with their child as a “good” mother “should.”

Conclusions

Body-focused social media posts may lead to downward social comparison among postpartum mothers. Findings may help inform interventions or clinical care focused on healthy social media exposure and use during the postpartum period.
What About Justice and Power Imbalances? A Relational Approach to Ethical Risk Assessments for AI
Authors: Krijger J.
Published: October 2024

Despite the surge in research on the ethical risks of Artificial Intelligence (AI) there is still a clear need for methodologies and practical strategies to assess ethical risks of AI applications. As risk assessment becomes a cornerstone of regulatory initiatives (e.g. EU AI Act) the question remains to what extent these methods are capable of addressing more complex normative issues related to voluntariness, justice and power imbalances in the deployment of AI. The current article examines three common categories of ethical risk assessment: (1) bilateral assessments, such as impact assessment for AI, (2) multilateral assessments, where the perspective of a group of stakeholders is included in the assessment and (3) foresight assessments, where future impacts and risks are assessed. Subsequently, it will make a case for relational risk assessment methods as a supplementary approach to the ethical analysis of AI. It takes as a starting point the three-party model as developed by Hermansson & Hansson (Risk Management 9(3):129–144, 2007) to identify salient ethical issues as they arise in the relationship between three critical parties or roles present in all risk related decisions: the decision-maker, the risk-exposed and the beneficiary. This model is then adjusted to better fit with AI contexts and applied to AI in credit risk scoring to evaluate its merits. Overall, the article seeks to contribute to the development of a more fine-grained understanding of the ethical risks of AI, emphasising the importance of addressing and interrogating relational dimensions such as power imbalances as ethical risks of AI applications.
Laying the foundations for using generative AI images in architectural research: do images convey the intended spaces and ambiances?
Authors: Odiah Azuka , Gosling Samuel D.
Published: October 2024

The advent of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) models, such as Stable Diffusion, Open AI's DALL-E2, and MidJourney, has opened the door to a huge range of new possibilities in architectural research and practice. Before architects and researchers can fully leverage these models, it is crucial to assess their proficiency in generating images that accurately depict real spaces and ambiances. Here, we assessed the proficiency of DALL-E2 in depicting intended spaces and intended ambiances, using real photographs from Google Images as a comparative benchmark. Images of eighteen distinct home spaces, each intended to evoke three different ambiances, were generated and presented to human observers. The images were evaluated in terms of their perceived realism, their accuracy in depicting the space and ambiance intended. Findings highlight GenAI's capability in depicting spaces and point to its potential in convincingly conveying ambiances. Beyond the substantive findings, this research highlights the importance of evaluating the rapidly emerging tools enabled by recent developments in AI.
An anatomical and histological narrative of a subcutaneous muscle of the anterior abdominal wall in human cadavers: a case report
Authors: Mascarenhas Daron , Sumitra V. , Shankar Nachiket
Published: October 2024

This report investigates a subcutaneous muscle layer found during routine dissections in four formalin embalmed human cadavers donated for medical training. The gross and microscopic morphology is described and potential implications in humans are raised. Tissue samples were taken from representative regions of the anterior abdominal wall and stained using Haematoxylin & Eosin followed by Masson’s Trichrome. The muscle tissue was seen in the deepest layers of the hypodermis of the anterior abdominal wall, with variable presentation between cadavers. Visually, it appeared as a thin greyish-pink or brown layer with variable morphology based on location, namely, sheet like, discontinuous, and enmeshed within fascial layers, with a thickness ranging from 1 to 5 mm. Tissue staining revealed muscle fibres in all samples. Our incidental findings add gross and histological evidence for the presence of a subcutaneous muscle layer found in the anterior abdominal wall of humans.
A reassessment of ice cliff dynamics upon debris-covered glaciers
Authors: Evatt Geoffrey William , Mayer Christoph , Wirbel Anna , Abrahams Ian David , Nicholson Lindsey
Published: October 2024

We present a new model for understanding ice cliff dynamics within a debris-covered glacier ablation zone. This simple energy-balance model incorporates a moving frame of reference, made necessary by the melt of the surrounding debris-covered ice. In so doing, this also formalises how different types of field measurements can be utilised and compared. Our predictions include showing: ice cliffs can endogenously select their own slope angles; that there should be an indifference between illuminated north- and south-facing ice cliff slopes; that ice cliffs grow steeper with thicker debris layers; that ice cliffs cannot stably exist below a certain critical debris thickness and that some modelling of ice cliffs (when not incorporating the moving frame) may incorrectly estimate ice mass losses. All of our results are produced using parametrisations from Baltoro Glacier, Karakoram.
Beyond party and the pocketbook: racial resentment, hostile sexism, and perceptions of corporate political activity
Authors: Goidel Kirby , Goidel Spencer , Zinnat Farzana , Jeon Jiyeong
Published: October 2024

Recent controversies over “woke” businesses have challenged traditional partisan political alignments, leading to increased criticism on the right of corporate political activity. This paper explores how the public evaluates corporate political activity, focusing specifically on whether individuals believe corporations are doing too much (or too little) to advance social and political goals. We are especially interested in how social identities and pocketbook considerations shape perceptions of corporate political activities not explicitly tied to social issues. Does racial resentment, for example, influence perceptions of corporate political activity designed to increase worker wages or improve health care? Or are the effects limited to efforts to achieve racial equality? We find that racial resentment and hostile sexism have spillover effects, affecting perceptions of corporate political activity across issue areas. Partisan affiliation, political ideology, and personal pocketbook considerations, in contrast, play a more limited role. Previous research has demonstrated the effect of racial resentment and sexism on support for welfare policies. We add to this literature by showing that racist and sexist opposition extends to corporate political activities that might not be explicitly identified as socially progressive.
Crisis-Related Measles Outbreaks in Low-Income Countries and the Need for Increased Health Systems Resilience
Authors: Ghammari Fawzieh , Jalilian Habib
Published: October 2024

The measles is a highly contagious disease that can be prevented by vaccination. During and after crises, vaccination against measles decreases in low-income countries, leading to outbreaks. It is possible for developed countries to be at risk from these outbreaks through travel. Low-income countries’ health systems are not resilient to crises. Lack of capacity among these countries causes a decrease in vaccinations. As a result, we provide some recommendations for increasing the resilience of the health system in low-income countries in this letter.
Association Between Social Determinants of Health, COVID-19 Stressors, and Mental Health Among New York Residents Early in the Pandemic
Authors: Riobueno-Naylor Alexa , Clay Lauren , Aubé Samantha S. , Lai Betty S.
Published: October 2024

Objective

The COVID-19 pandemic is a disaster event. Exposure to stressors during and after disaster events is associated with negative mental health symptoms. To inform targeted COVID-19 recovery efforts, data are needed to understand which stressors play a key role in this relationship.

Methods

Cross-sectional survey data (demographics, impacts of COVID-19, social determinants of health, depression, and anxiety) were collected online from adults living in New York state between May and June 2020. Differences in the proportion of stressors (COVID-19 and social determinants) experienced by race/ethnicity were assessed using chi-square analyses. Logistic regression was used to assess which factors were associated with increased odds of depression and anxiety.

Results

A majority (n = 258, 62.2%) of the 415 respondents reported being directly impacted by the pandemic. Non-white respondents reported a significantly larger proportion of stressors compared to white respondents. Under half of respondents reported depression (n = 171, 41.2%) and anxiety (n = 164, 39.5%). Healthcare and food concerns were associated with increased odds of depression and anxiety, and economic concerns were associated with increased odds of anxiety.

Conclusions

Findings underscore the need to respond to the COVID-19 mental health crisis by addressing social determinants of health.
Bridging the gap between requirements engineering and systems architecting: the Elephant Specification Language
Authors: Wilschut Tim , Hofkamp Albert T. , Schuijbroek Tiemen J. L. , Etman L. F. Pascal , Rooda Jacobus E.
Published: October 2024

This article presents a domain-specific language for writing highly structured multilevel system specifications. The language effectively bridges the gap between requirements engineering and systems architecting by enabling the direct derivation of a dependency graph from the system specifications. The dependency graph allows for the easy manipulation, visualization and analysis of the system architecture, ensuring the consistency among written system specifications and visual system architecture models. The system architecture models provide direct feedback on the completeness of the system specifications. The language and associated tooling has been made publicly available and has been applied in several industrial case studies. In this article, the fundamental concepts and way of working of the language are explained using an illustrative example.
Reconceptualizing Constitutionalism in the AI Run Algorithmic Society
Authors: Avbelj Matej
Published: October 2024

This Article is dedicated to what is arguably one of the most significant tests to which constitutionalism has been subject to in recent times. It examines the theoretical and practical challenges to constitutionalism arising from the profound technological changes under the influence of artificial intelligence (AI) in our emerging algorithmic society. The unprecedented rapid development of AI technology has not only rendered conventional theories of modern constitutionalism obsolete, but it has also created an epistemic gap in constitutional theory. As a result, there is a clear need for a new, compelling constitutional theory that adequately accounts for the scale of technological change by accurately capturing it, engaging with it, and ultimately, responding to it in a conceptually and normatively convincing way.
System infection prevention in hospital networks in the United States—an SHEA research network inquiry into operational characteristics and current challenges
Authors: Stevens Michael P. , Emetuche Nkechi , Passaretti Catherine , Snyder Graham , Snyders Rachael , Edmond Michael B. , Marschall Jonas
Published: October 2024

A 54-question survey about System Healthcare Infection Prevention Programs (SHIPPs) was sent out to SHEA Research Network participants in August 2023. Thirty-eight United States-based institutions responded (38/93, 41%), of which 23 have SHIPPs. We found heterogeneity in the structure, staffing, and resources for system infection prevention (IP) programs.
The Collapse of the Male Gaze in the Cinema of Bahram Beyzaie: The Crow and Maybe Some Other Time
Authors: Ghoreishi Seyed Aria
Published: October 2024

This article explores the correlation between two of Bahram Beyzaie's films and Laura Mulvey's theories on the male gaze. The films in question are The Crow (Kalāgh, 1977) and Maybe Some Other Time (Shāyad Vaqti Digar, 1987). This article delves into the films’ narrative structures, revealing a subtle yet significant shift in the dynamics of power and gaze. Initially, both films appear to conform to conventional representations of male dominance, establishing a seemingly patriarchal landscape. However, as the narratives unfold, a gradual transformation occurs, subverting conventions of the male gaze. By employing Mulvey's framework, this article deciphers the interplay between Beyzaie's cinematic language and Mulvey's theoretical underpinnings, highlighting Beyzaie's role in deconstructing patriarchal structures and crafting a more nuanced portrayal of gender relations.
Surface mass balance modelling of the Juneau Icefield highlights the potential for rapid ice loss by the mid-21st century
Authors: Ing Ryan Nicholas , Ely Jeremy Charles , Jones Julie Margaret , Davies Bethan Joan
Published: October 2024

Plateau icefields are large stores of fresh water, preconditioned to enhanced mass loss due to their gently sloping accumulation areas. Accurate modelling of their mass balance is therefore crucial for sea-level rise projections. Here, we use the COupled Snowpack and Ice surface energy and mass-balance model in PYthon (COSIPY) to simulate historical and future mass balance of the Juneau Icefield, Alaska – a high elevation (>1200 m) plateau icefield. We force the model with dynamically downscaled climate simulations, for both past and future (RCP 8.5) conditions. The icefield's mass balance decreased from a mean of −0.22 ± 0.38 m w.e. a−1 (1981–2019) to −1.52 ± 0.27 m w.e. a−1 (2031–2060), with many glaciers shifting from positive to negative mass balances at the start of the 21st century. This mass loss is attributed to projected rising air temperatures and reduced snowfall, causing the equilibrium line altitude to rise and triggering albedo and melt-elevation feedbacks. These processes exacerbate melt, potentially leading to increased glacier disconnections at icefalls.
Morphological and molecular characterisation of two new species of Rhipidocotyle (Digenea: Bucephalidae Poche, 1907) from Sphyraena putnamae Jordan & Seale in Mozambique
Authors: Dumbo J.C. , Dos Santos Q.M. , Avenant-Oldewage A.
Published: October 2024

Species-level delineation of digenetic trematodes is complex and can be best achieved by integrative taxonomy using both genetic characterisation and morphological analysis. Two new Bucephalidae species of the genus Rhipidocotyle Diesing, 1858 are described here based on specimens collected from the intestine of Sphyraena putnamae Jordan & Seale following this approach. Adults of R. siphonyaka n. sp. and R. nolwe n. sp. possess tentacles and a tegument with scales. They are distinguished from their congeners by the arrangement of the digestive structures, the extent of the uterus relative to vitelline fields, and the arrangement of the reproductive structures. Rhipidocotyle siphonyaka n. sp. differs from R. nolwe n. sp. in having the pharynx and mouth positioned in the pre-uterine field, tandem testes, longer body length, and shorter pre-vitelline and post-testicular distance. Rhipidocotyle siphonyaka n. sp. differs from its congeners in having a tube-like intestinal caecum, pharynx and mouth opening positioned in the pre-vitelline field. Rhipidocotyle nolwe n. sp. appears to be similar, morphologically and morphometrically, to Rhipidocotyle khalili (Nagaty, 1937). Despite their similarities, R. nolwe n. sp. has a shorter body length and egg size. Moreover, the molecular analysis of 28S and ITS rDNA fragments indicate that R. siphonyaka n. sp. and R. nolwe n. sp. are closely related phylogenetically but distinct from one another and other Bucephalidae for which molecular data are available.
Neglected yet pervasive: echinococcosis awareness and prevention capacity in Kyrgyzstan
Authors: Vishniakov Dmitry , Turdumambetova Mairamkul , Matkerimova Nazgul , Dzhusupov Kenesh , Sultanbaeva Zildiz , Rafibekov Eldar
Published: October 2024

The study aimed to assess the heterogeneity in the distribution of disease awareness, attitudes, and practices related to cystic echinococcosis (CE) in different subgroups and inform health authorities regionally and globally for future evidence-based tailored prevention practices in the region. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 242 participants from Kyrgyz Republic (KR), Issyk-Kul oblast, and utilized survey data to analyse demographics, household information, echinococcosis-related practices, and knowledge. Participants in high-risk environments (HRE) and engaging in high-risk behaviours (HRB) linked to CE contracting were identified. Out of 242 participants, 39% lived in HRE, with 22% engaging in HRB of contracting CE. 13% lived in HRE and engaged in HRB. Only 6% followed all preventive measures, while 56% followed some. 97.5% of participants had heard about CE, but only 6% identified all transmission routes, and 63.4% were unaware of dog contact as a route. Education reduced the odds of being in the highest risk group (HRE&HRB) (OR 0.5, 95% CI 0.23–0.80). The study's findings are alarming, emphasizing factors contributing to regional endemicity. We anticipated a similar pattern in the neighbouring countries, given the shared nomadic customs and historical parallels. Examination of the heterogeneity of disease awareness and practices allows tailored prevention strategies. Urgent prevention programmes focusing on echinococcosis awareness in the KR are crucial to addressing challenges posed by nomadic habits.
“Terminal Anorexia”, Treatment Refusal and Decision-Making Capacity
Authors: Jefferson Anneli
Published: October 2024

Whether anorexic patients should be able to refuse treatment when this refusal potentially has a fatal outcome is a vexed topic. A recent proposal for a new category of “terminal anorexia” suggests criteria when a move to palliative care or even physician-assisted suicide might be justified. The author argues that this proposed diagnosis presents a false sense of certainty of the illness trajectory by conceptualizing anorexia in analogy with physical disorders and stressing the effects of starvation. Furthermore, this conceptualization is in conflict with the claim that individuals who meet the diagnostic criteria for terminal anorexia have decision-making capacity. It should therefore be rejected.
Slum clearance in a ‘semi-colony’: coercion and restraint in policing practices in 1930s Shanghai
Authors: Wang Yutong
Published: October 2024

Slum clearances expose hostility between municipal authorities and residents fighting to claim urban space. In colonial contexts, these processes created conflicts between rulers and the ruled. Focusing on the ‘semi-colonial’ Shanghai International Settlement, this article examines interactions between the Shanghai Municipal Police (SMP) and slum-dwellers amid an evolving crisis of urban governance in the 1930s. This case-study, grounded in Shanghai’s complex socio-political climate, reveals how ordinary Chinese residents negotiated with the authorities and points to the frailties of semi-colonial governance, showing how the SMP deployed coercion only when it was unavoidable in slum clearances.
Efficacy of vortioxetine versus desvenlafaxine in the treatment of functional impairment in patients with major depressive disorder: Results from the multinational VIVRE study
Authors: Christensen Michael Cronquist , Grande Iria , Rieckmann Andreas , Chokka Pratap
Published: October 2024

Background

In VIVRE (NCT04448431), vortioxetine was associated with significantly higher rates of symptomatic and functional remission, better daily and social functioning, and greater treatment satisfaction than desvenlafaxine in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) and partial response to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) therapy. This analysis further explored the relative improvement in patient functioning with vortioxetine versus desvenlafaxine.

Methods

VIVRE was a randomized, double-blind study of vortioxetine (10 or 20 mg/day) versus desvenlafaxine (50 mg/day) in adults with MDD and partial response to initial SSRI monotherapy. Mean percentage changes from baseline to week 8 in Functioning Assessment Short Test (FAST) total and domain scores were analyzed by treatment group in the overall population and in working patients.

Results

In the overall population, the mean reduction in FAST total score from baseline after 8 weeks of treatment was 37.2% in vortioxetine-treated patients versus 31.8% in desvenlafaxine-treated patients (P = 0.04). Significantly greater improvements versus desvenlafaxine were seen in vortioxetine-treated patients for FAST autonomy, cognitive functioning, and interpersonal-relationships scores (all P < 0.05). In working patients, the mean reduction in FAST total score from baseline at week 8 was 38.7% versus 32.1% in the vortioxetine and desvenlafaxine groups, respectively (P = 0.04). Significant correlations were seen between absolute changes in patient functioning, and those in depression severity and health-related quality of life.

Conclusion

Vortioxetine was significantly better than desvenlafaxine in improving overall functioning as well as daily, social, and cognitive functioning in patients with MDD with inadequate response to prior SSRI therapy.
CON-FOLD Explainable Machine Learning with Confidence
Authors: MCGINNESS LACHLAN , BAUMGARTNER PETER
Published: October 2024

FOLD-RM is an explainable machine learning classification algorithm that uses training data to create a set of classification rules. In this paper, we introduce CON-FOLD which extends FOLD-RM in several ways. CON-FOLD assigns probability-based confidence scores to rules learned for a classification task. This allows users to know how confident they should be in a prediction made by the model. We present a confidence-based pruning algorithm that uses the unique structure of FOLD-RM rules to efficiently prune rules and prevent overfitting. Furthermore, CON-FOLD enables the user to provide preexisting knowledge in the form of logic program rules that are either (fixed) background knowledge or (modifiable) initial rule candidates. The paper describes our method in detail and reports on practical experiments. We demonstrate the performance of the algorithm on benchmark datasets from the UCI Machine Learning Repository. For that, we introduce a new metric, Inverse Brier Score, to evaluate the accuracy of the produced confidence scores. Finally, we apply this extension to a real-world example that requires explainability: marking of student responses to a short answer question from the Australian Physics Olympiad.
The Election of an ‘Outsider’ Archbishop
Authors: Porter Muriel
Published: October 2024

The 1984 election of David Penman as Anglican Archbishop of Melbourne was surprising, coming at the end of a controversial process in which two better-known candidates had consistently been the front runners. His election disrupted the longstanding power base of Melbourne Diocese represented by the two men passed over. But his election disrupted more than that – it disrupted the stalemate preventing the ordination of women in the Anglican Church of Australia. His election was crucial to the struggle to have women ordained in the Australian church. As Melbourne Diocesan Synod prepares to elect its next archbishop in 2025, it is timely to re-visit the 1984 election.
Groundwaterscapes: A Global Classification and Mapping of Groundwater's Large‐Scale Socioeconomic, Ecological, and Earth System Functions
Authors: Huggins Xander , Gleeson Tom , Villholth Karen G. , Rocha Juan C. , Famiglietti James S.
Published: October 2024

Groundwater is a dynamic component of the global water cycle with important social, economic, ecological, and Earth system functions. We present a new global classification and mapping of groundwater systems, which we call groundwaterscapes, that represent predominant configurations of large‐scale groundwater system functions. We identify and map 15 groundwaterscapes which offer a new lens to conceptualize, study, model, and manage groundwater. Groundwaterscapes are derived using a novel application of sequenced self‐organizing maps that capture patterns in groundwater system functions at the grid cell level (∼10 km), including groundwater‐dependent ecosystem type and density, storage capacity, irrigation, safe drinking water access, and national governance. All large aquifer systems of the world are characterized by multiple groundwaterscapes, highlighting the pitfalls of treating these groundwater bodies as lumped systems in global assessments. We evaluate the distribution of Global Groundwater Monitoring Network wells across groundwaterscapes and find that industrial agricultural regions are disproportionately monitored, while several groundwaterscapes have next to no monitoring wells. This disparity undermines the ability to understand system dynamics across the full range of settings that characterize groundwater systems globally. We argue that groundwaterscapes offer a conceptual and spatial tool to guide model development, hypothesis testing, and future data collection initiatives to better understand groundwater's embeddedness within social‐ecological systems at the global scale.
Poroelastic Response of a Fractured Rock to Hydrostatic Pressure Oscillations
Authors: Chapman Samuel , Lissa Simón , Fortin Jerome , Quintal Beatriz
Published: October 2024

Poroelastic coupling between fractures and the surrounding rock is important to numerous applications in geosciences. We measure the in‐situ fluid pressure and local strain response of a fractured carbonate sample to hydrostatic pressure oscillations. A linear poroelastic model that represents the rock sample is parameterized using X‐ray imaging and ultrasonic wave transmission measurements. The numerical solution, based on Biot's quasistatic equations, is consistent with the measured frequency dependent dispersion of the apparent bulk modulus of the background matrix and the in‐situ pore pressure response, which is caused by fluid pressure diffusion from the compliant fractures into the stiffer matrix. The observed fluid pressure diffusion is causally related to the numerically quantified intrinsic attenuation at seismic frequencies, which is a major contributor to the dissipation of seismic waves. Our analysis supports the use of a simple approximation of fractures as compliant and planar inclusions in numerical simulations based on linear poroelasticity.
What Distinguishes Summer Extreme Precipitation From Non‐Extreme Precipitation Over the Tibetan Plateau?
Authors: Ding Zhiyuan , Ha Yao , Huangfu Jingliang , Zhong Zhong
Published: October 2024

This study focuses on the primary synoptic‐scale patterns and precursors of extreme and non‐extreme precipitation over the Tibetan Plateau (TP). Atmospheric circulation anomalies and their precursors associated with regional extreme precipitation events (REPE) demonstrate distinct precursor wave train and heightened intensity than regional non‐extreme precipitation events (non‐REPE). Specifically, REPE over the northwestern TP (NWTP) exhibits a geopotential height anomaly induced by a latitudinal propagating Rossby wave train along 40°N. In contrast, over the southeastern TP (SETP), REPE is characterized by a geopotential height anomaly caused by a northwest‐southeastward propagating Rossby wave train. The ascending motion anomalies of REPE over both NWTP and SETP are primarily attributed to the geostrophic zonal temperature advection, which is significantly stronger during REPE compared to non‐REPE. This finding provides valuable insights for forecasting summer extreme precipitation over TP.
Self‐Potential Tomography Preconditioned by Particle Swarm Optimization—Application to Monitoring Hyporheic Exchange in a Bedrock River
Authors: Ikard Scott J. , Carroll Kenneth C. , Brooks Scott C. , Rucker Dale F. , Smith‐Vega Gladisol , Elwes Aubrey
Published: October 2024

A self‐potential (SP) data‐inversion algorithm was developed and tested on an analytical model of electrical‐potential profile data attributed to single and multiple polarized electrical sources. The developed algorithm was then validated by an application to SP‐monitoring field data measured on the floodplain of East Fork Poplar Creek, Oak Ridge, Tennessee, to image electrical sources in areas conducive to preferential flow into the flood plain from the bedrock‐lined riverbed. The algorithm combined stochastic source‐localization by particle‐swarm‐optimization (PSO) of electrical sources characterized by simplified geometries with source tomography by regularized weighted least‐squares minimization of a quadratic objective function. Prior information was incorporated by preconditioning the tomography algorithm by PSO results. Variable percentages of random noise were added to analytical‐model data to evaluate the algorithm performance. Results indicated that true parameters of single‐source models were inverted and approximated with small residual error, whereas inversion of analytical‐model data representing multiple electrical sources accurately approximated the locations of the sources but miscalculated some parameters because of the non‐uniqueness of the inverse‐model solution. Source tomography applied to analytical model data during testing produced a spatially continuous parameter field that identified the locations of point‐scale synthetic dipole sources of electrical current flow with varying degrees of accuracy depending on the prior information incorporated into the tomography. When applied to SP‐monitoring field data, the algorithm imaged electrical sources within a known fault that intersects the bedrock riverbed and flood plain of East Fork Poplar Creek and depicted dynamic electrical conditions attributed to hyporheic exchange.