bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental investigations on mechanical performance, synergy assessment, and microstructure of pozzolanic and non‐pozzolanic hybrid steel fiber reinforced concrete
Authors: Boomibalan Sankar , Isleem Haytham F. , Swaminathan Packirisamy , Rameshkumar Deivasigamani , Kadarkarai Arunkumar
Published: July 2024

This paper investigates the effects of pozzolanic substitutions for ordinary Portland cement (OPC) with silica fume (SF) and metakaolin (MK) on the mechanical and toughness performances of steel fiber reinforced concrete (SFRC). Initially, a reference concrete mix with a water‐to‐binder ratio of 0.4 is blended with different volume fractions of steel fibers with varying geometry: crimped steel (CS) and straight steel (SS), both individually and in combination, to examine their mechanical properties. In the subsequent phase, the study investigates the impact of combining macro‐ and microsteel fibers on flexural toughness, to determine potential synergy for suitable combinations. Also, the possible influence of pozzolans in the variation of flexural toughness of hybrid steel fiber reinforced concrete (Hy‐SFRC) was evaluated. Hybridization of steel fibers was found effective in improving the workability of the concrete mix up to 11%. SFRC mixes containing pozzolans exhibited a significant enhancement in compressive strength, modulus of rupture, and modulus of elasticity compared to non‐pozzolanic SFRC. The hybrid combination of CS 1.5% and SS 0.5% was considered the best in terms of mechanical properties. Additionally, the results of synergy assessment showed that hybridization of steel fibers in the pozzolanic concrete mix was particularly effective in the post‐cracking stages with a positive 14% compared to a negative 8% in the pre‐cracking stage. The pozzolanic addition improved the flexural toughness of Hy‐SFRC to about 10%–20%. Blending of SF and MK in Hy‐SFRC was found effective in enhancing the toughness mechanism of concrete compared to Hy‐SFRC mixes containing binary SF and MK, indicating a stronger bond between the fibers and the matrix resulting from the pore refinement and hydration products developed at the interface. Hy‐SFRC containing a ternary pozzolanic mix of SF 10% and MK 10% gave the best results in flexural toughness, and the corresponding synergy values were found to be the maximum. The results were consistent with the morphology analysis, which revealed an increase in hydration products at the interface between the aggregate and concrete matrix, as well as between the steel fiber and concrete matrix, due to the ternary blending of SF and MK.
Female Mice Exposed to Pyriproxyfen Since Prepuberty Showed Reproductive Impairment During Sexual Maturity and Increased Fetal Death in Their Offspring
Authors: da Silva Alice Santos , de Mello Tainara Fernandes , Fagá Henrique Frederico Enz , Knorst Jennyfer Karen , Silva Fátima Regina Mena Barreto , Leite Gabriel Adan Araújo
Published: July 2024

Pyriproxyfen (PPF) is an insecticide used in agriculture, which is approved for use in drinking water tanks for human consumption. However, some studies indicate that it may act as an endocrine disruptor and affect nontarget organisms. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of PPF on reproduction and general health status in female mice exposed from pre‐puberty to adulthood. In the first experiment, females were treated by gavage from postnatal day (PND) 23 to (PND) 75 and were distributed into three experimental groups: control (vehicle), PPF 0.1 mg/kg, and PPF 1 mg/kg. Female mice were assessed for the age of puberty onset, body mass, water and food consumption, and the estrous cycle. On PDN 75, a subgroup was euthanized, when vital and reproductive organs were collected and weighed. The thyroid, ovary, and uterus were evaluated for histomorphometry. The other subgroup was assessed in relation to reproductive performance and fetal parameters. In a second experiment, the uterotrophic assay was performed with juvenile females (PND 18) using doses of 0.01, 0.1, or 1 mg/kg of PPF. PPF treatment reduced thyroid mass and increased liver mass. Furthermore, there was an increase in ovarian interstitial tissue and, in the uterus, a decrease in the thickness of the endometrial stroma with reduced content of collagen fibers. There was also a reduction of 30% in pregnancy rate in the treated groups and an increase in the frequency of fetal death. This study suggests that, based on this experimental model, the insecticide may pose a reproductive risk for females chronically exposed to the substance from the pre‐pubertal period until adulthood. These results raise concerns about prolonged exposure of women to the same compound.
Development and implementation of nested single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) assays for breeding and genetic research applications
Authors: Song Qijian , Quigley Charles , He Ruifeng , Wang Dechun , Nguyen Henry , Miranda Carrie , Li Zenglu
Published: July 2024

SoySNP50K and SoySNP6K are commonly used for soybean (Glycine max) genotyping. The SoySNP50K assay has been used to genetically analyze the entire USDA Soybean Germplasm Collection, while the SoySNP6K assay, containing a subset of 6000 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from SoySNP50K, has been used for quantitative trait loci mapping of different traits. To meet the needs for genomic selection, selection of parents for crosses, and characterization of breeding populations, especially early selection of ideal offspring from thousands of lines, we developed two assays, SoySNP3K and SoySNP1K, containing 3072 and 1252 SNPs, respectively, based on SoySNP50K and SoySNP6K mark sets. These two assays also contained the trait markers reported or contributed by soybean breeders. The SNPs in the SoySNP3K are a subset from SoySNP6K, while the SNPs in the SoySNP1K are a subset from SoySNP3K. These SNPs were chosen to reduce the SNP number in the large linkage blocks while capturing as much of the haplotype diversity as possible. They are highly polymorphic and of high quality. The mean minor allele frequencies of the SNPs in the southern and northern US elites were 0.25 and 0.27 for SoySNP3K, respectively, and 0.29 and 0.33 for SoySNP1K. The selected SNPs are a valuable source for developing targeted amplicon sequencing assay or beadchip assay in soybean. SoySNP3K and SoySNP1K assays are commercialized by Illumina Inc. and AgriPlex Genomics, respectively. Together with SoySNP50K and SoySNP6K, a series of nested assays with different marker densities will serve as additional low‐cost genomic tools for genetic, genomic, and breeding research.
Water throughout the green energy transition: Hydrosocial dimensions of coal, natural gas, and lithium
Authors: Cousins Joshua J. , Cantor Alida , Turley Bethani
Published: July 2024

Energy transitions are reshaping hydrosocial relations. How they will be reshaped, however, depends on location and water's material relationship to other resources and industrial activities embedded within energy transitions. To highlight this, we focus on three different resources—coal, natural gas, and lithium—to signal how the water–energy nexus will be reworked in a transition away from fossil fuels. We examine the water–coal nexus as an example of a resource relationship that is transitioning out, or that is being moved away from in the green energy transition. Natural gas represents the “bridge fuel” used through the transition. Lithium illustrates a resource inside the green transition, as it is a fundamental material for green technologies in the transition to a low‐carbon future. Coal, natural gas, and lithium each have their own material impacts to water resources that stem from their industrial lifecycle and different implications for communities shaped by coal, natural gas, and lithium activities. To explore this, we review each of these resources' connection to water, their legal and regulatory dimensions, and their impact on communities and water justice. We argue that the energy transition is also a hydrosocial transition that will create uneven water‐related benefits and burdens. To maximize sustainability and equity, efforts to decarbonize energy systems must examine the localized, place‐based hydrosocial relations that differentially affect communities.

This article is categorized under:

Engineering Water > Planning Water

Human Water > Water Governance

Human Water > Rights to Water
Exact analysis of hydromagnetic non‐Gray optically thick heat absorbing fluid with nonlinear parabolic ramped conditions
Authors: Bordoloi Rajdeep , Ahmed Nazibuddin , Chamuah Kalyan , Chamkha Ali J.
Published: July 2024

The article presents a solution to a complex problem involving a transient MHD‐free convective chemically reactive flow. The flow involves a viscous incompressible electrically conducting non‐Gray optically thick fluid moving past a semi‐infinite vertical plate that has suddenly started but is temporarily accelerated. The plate has nonlinear parabolic ramped conditions, and the flow is exposed to thermal radiation, heat absorbing sink, and diffusion‐thermo effect. For the current study, the model fluid being used is moist air. The governing equations are obtained using the Laplace transform technique with the help of the Heaviside step function. This study is the first to consider parabolic ramped motion, temperature and concentration simultaneously. Effects of the pertinent parameters on the Sherwood number and Nusselt number are visualized using 3D surface plotting. Findings of the problem manifest that concentration, temperature, and velocity profiles in case of ramped conditions are less than in isothermal conditions. The rate of heat transfer of mercury is less than oxygen, air, water, and ethanol at a room temperature of 22°C–25°C. The ramped plate has the tendency to augment the heat transfer rate. The present study is of great interest in numerous fields of industry and machine‐building applications.
Rheological effects in peristaltic flow of Prandtl fluid through elliptical duct: A comprehensive analysis
Authors: Shahzad Muhammad Hasnain , Awan Aziz Ullah , Nadeem Sohail , Ahammad N. Ameer , Hamam Haneen , Alamer Ahmed , Shafique Sidra
Published: July 2024

This research venture comprehends a theoretical examination of non‐Newtonian fluid flowing peristaltic via an elliptical channel. Furthermore, the Prandtl fluid method for this elliptic duct problem is thoroughly considered. This mathematical inquiry adopts a non‐Newtonian Prandtl fluid model. A polynomial methodology is used to analyze partial differential equations that appear in nondimensional form and deliver an exact analytical solution for the temperature and velocity profile. This study is the first to utilize a novel order polynomial of degree eight having eleven constants to precisely solve the temperature equation for Prandtl fluid flow via an elliptic domain. A comprehensive graphical analysis is also provided to understand the mathematical conclusions fully. The graphs of the velocity profiles clearly show that the non‐Newtonian effects are more potent along the minor axis of the elliptical duct. The streamlined graphs accentuating the trapping phenomenon show specific closed contours close to the boundary wall of the peristaltic duct.
International Organisations and Norm Diffusion: The Case of UNODC in Central Asia
Authors: Genç H. Deniz
Published: July 2024

The political landscape of Central Asia experienced a profound and irreversible transformation following the dissolution of the Soviet Union. While common trends, such as shifting from planned to market economies and attempts at democratisation, were observed, the distinctive context of each Central Asian state played a unique role in shaping their individual transitions. This process has been further accelerated since the early 2000s with the increasing presence and influence of various actors, including states, multinational companies, and nongovernment and international organisations, across the region. Within this evolving landscape, international organisations have emerged as norm entrepreneurs, playing significant roles in diffusing norms within Central Asia. Whilst actively involved in the region, UNODC’s specific activities, projects, and mechanisms via which it disseminates norms on issues within its mandate in Central Asia remain unexplored. This chapter addresses this gap and seeks to answer the following questions: How does UNODC foster international norms and standards in response to transnational challenges? Why is UNODC’s involvement crucial in facilitating norm diffusion within Central Asia? This study also addresses potential contestation from the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) against UNODC’s norm diffusion and reflects upon evolving global governance dynamics and the boundaries of norm diffusion in the Central Asian region.
Huỳnh Thị Bảo Hòa (1896–1982): A Woman Who Wrote to Change Vietnamese Society
Authors: Nguyen Phuong Ngoc
Published: July 2024

For centuries, women in Vietnam had to respect the three obediences of Confucian morality. However, at the beginning of the twentieth century, a radical change took place: women went to school, wrote in the press, gave lectures, published novels and books, led associations, and campaigned for the status of women. In this chapter, we examine the life of a woman who lived during this time. Mrs. Huỳnh Thị Bảo Hòa, born in 1896, is known for her activities on behalf of women, as well as for her account of a trip to the mountains near Đà Nẵng, her essay on the kingdom of Champa and her novel telling the story of a Vietnamese man who was enlisted to fight in France during the First World War and who married a French woman. Through an examination of her biography, we will gain a better understanding of the life of an educated woman in Vietnam at the beginning of the twentieth century. We will then analyze her novel, The Western Beauty, published in Saigon in 1927 to gain a deeper sense of Mrs. Huỳnh Thị Bảo Hòa’s views on the place of Vietnamese women in colonial Vietnam.
An Educational Regime of Truth for Social Reform in Late Colonial Vietnam: The Journalistic Art of the Possible in Phụ nữ tân văn’s “Travel Stories” and “Letters for You”
Authors: Phùng Thanh , Vũ Đăng Minh
Published: July 2024

This chapter examines the presentation of the woman question in Vietnamese journalism in the 1920s–1930s. It spotlights how two columns in the paper Women’s News (Phụ nữ tân văn), “Travel Stories” (Du ký), and “Letters for You” (Thơ cho bạn), fabricated, in a journalistic manner, internationally minded  and socially engaged woman figures for a modern Vietnam through authorial modalities of openness and female impersonation. Based on an analysis of the columns and their context, the chapter identifies what can be called an educational regime of truth for social reform in late colonial Vietnam in these journalistic works.
NLO+NLL′ accurate predictions for three-jet event shapes in hadronic Higgs decays
Authors: Gehrmann-De Ridder Aude , Preuss Christian T. , Reichelt Daniel , Schumann Steffen
Published: July 2024

Abstract

We present resummed predictions at next-to-leading logarithmic accuracy matched to the exact next-to-leading order results for a set of classical event-shape observables in hadronic Higgs decays, i.e., for the channels H → gg and H → $$ b\overline{b} $$
b

b
¯

. We furthermore consider soft-drop grooming of the hadronic final states and derive corresponding NLO+NLL′ predictions for the groomed thrust observable. Differences in the QCD radiation pattern of gluon- and quark-initiated final states are imprinted in the event-shape distributions, offering separation power for the two decay channels. In particular, we show that ungroomed event shapes in H → gg decays develop a considerably harder spectrum than in H → $$ b\overline{b} $$
b

b
¯

decays. We highlight that soft-drop grooming can substantially alter this behaviour, unless rather inclusive grooming parameters are chosen.
Monge Surfaces. Generation, Discretisation and Application in Architecture
Authors: Gonzalez‑Quintial Francisco , Martín‑Pastor Andrés
Published: July 2024

This paper describes a revision of so-called Monge surfaces through using digital graphic tools, based on the synthetic conception exposed by Gaspard Monge in the 18th and 19th centuries, through their geometric relation with polar surface. As a starting point, we propose a graphical system that integrally solves the generation of these kind of surfaces, their rationalization and discretization, with the objective of their specific application in architecture. The geometric system described allows the generation of a type of surface in which the pair of curves -generatrix and directrix- give rise to the network of principal lines of curvature (LCP) of the final surface. In this way, we propose a process that follows a bottom-up generative system based on Monge surfaces, which offers wide possibilities of formal exploration, while imposing geometrical-constructive properties that are very useful in fabrication and assembly processes.
Distinguishing Sanghuangporus from sanghuang-related fungi: a comparative and phylogenetic analysis based on mitogenomes
Authors: Feng Xi-long , Xie Tian-chen , Wang Zhen-xin , Lin Chao , Li Zhao-chen , Huo Jinxi , Li Yougui , Liu Chengwei , Gao Jin-ming , Qi Jianzhao
Published: July 2024

The Chinese medicinal fungi “Sanghuang” have been long recognized for their significant and valued medicinal properties, as documented in ancient medical literature. However, in traditional folk medicine, various macrofungi sharing similar appearance, habitat, and therapeutic effects with Sanghuang were erroneously used. These Sanghuang-like fungi mainly belong to the Porodaedalea, Phellinus, and Inonotus genera within the Hymenochaetaceae family. Despite the establishment of the Sanghuangporus genus and the identification of multiple species, the emerging taxonomic references based on morphological, ITS, and mycelial structural features have been inadequate to differentiate Sanghuangporus and Sanghuang-like fungi. To address this limitation, this study presents the first comparative and phylogenetic analysis of Sanghuang-related fungi based on mitogenomes. Our results show that Sanghuangporus species show marked convergence in mitochondrial genomic features and form a distinct monophyletic group based on phylogenetic analyses of five datasets. These results not only deepen our understanding of Sanghuang-like fungi but also offer novel insights into their mitochondrial composition and phylogeny, thereby providing new research tools for distinguishing members of the Sanghuangporus genus.

Key points

• Sanghuangporus, Inonotus, and Porodaedalea are monophyly in sanghuang-like species.

• Mitogenome-based analysis exhibits high resolution in sanghuang-like genus.

• The mitogenomes provide strong evidence for reclassifying Phellinus gilvus S12 as Sanghuangporus vaninii.
18F-Flortaucipir (AV1451) imaging identifies grey matter atrophy in retired athletes
Authors: Vasilevskaya Anna , Anastassiadis Chloe , Thapa Simrika , Taghdiri Foad , Khodadadi Mozhgan , Multani Namita , Rusjan Pablo , Ozzoude Miracle , Tarazi Apameh , Mushtaque Asma , Wennberg Richard , Houle Sylvain , Green Robin , Colella Brenda , Vasdev Neil , Blennow Kaj , Zetterberg Henrik , Karikari Thomas , Sato Christine , Moreno Danielle , Rogaeva Ekaterina , Mikulis David , Davis Karen Deborah , Tator Charles , Tartaglia Maria Carmela
Published: July 2024

Background

The long-term consequences of concussions may include pathological neurodegeneration as seen in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). Tau-PET showed promise as a method to detect tau pathology of CTE, but more studies are needed

Objective

This study aimed (1) to assess the association of imaging evidence of tau pathology with brain volumes in retired athletes and (2) to examine the relationship between tau-PET and neuropsychological functioning.

Methods

Former contact sport athletes were recruited through the Canadian Football League Alumni Association or the Canadian Concussion Centre clinic. Athletes completed MRI, [18F]flortaucipir tau-PET, and a neuropsychological battery. Memory composite was created by averaging the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test and Rey Visual Design Learning Test z-scores. Grey matter (GM) volumes were age/intracranial volume corrected using normal control MRIs. Tau-PET % positivity in GM was calculated as the number of positive voxels (≥ 1.3 standardized uptake value ratio (SUVR)/total voxels).

Results

47 retired contact sport athletes negative for AD (age:51 ± 14; concussions/athlete:15 ± 2) and 54 normal controls (age:50 ± 13) were included. Tau-PET positive voxels had significantly lower GM volumes, compared to tau-PET negative voxels (− 0.37 ± 0.41 vs. − 0.31 ± 0.37, paired p = .006). There was a significant relationship between GM tau-PET % positivity and memory composite score (r =  − .366, p = .02), controlled for age, PET scanner, and PET scan duration. There was no relationship between tau-PET measures and concussion number, or years of sport played.

Conclusion

A higher tau-PET signal was associated with reduced GM volumes and lower memory scores. Tau-PET may be useful for identifying those at risk for neurodegeneration.
Molecular detection of trypanosomes of the Trypanosoma livingstonei species group in diverse bat species in Central Cameroon
Authors: Tsague K. J. A. , Bakwo Fils E. M. , Atagana J. P. , Mbeng D. W. , Palm L. , Tchuinkam T. , Schaer J.
Published: July 2024

Bats are hosts for diverse Trypanosoma species, including trypanosomes of the Trypanosoma cruzi clade. This clade is believed to have originated in Africa and diversified in many lineages worldwide. In several geographical areas, including Cameroon, no data about trypanosomes of bats has been collected yet. In this study, we investigated the diversity and phylogenetic relationships of trypanosomes of different bat species in the central region of Cameroon. Trypanosome infections were detected in six bat species of four bat families, namely Hipposideridae, Pteropodidae, Rhinolophidae, and Vespertilionidae, with an overall prevalence of 29% and the highest infection rate in hipposiderid bat species. All trypanosomes were identified as belonging to the Trypanosoma livingstonei species group with one clade that might represent an additional subspecies of T. livingstonei. Understanding the prevalence, distribution, and host range of parasites of this group contributes to our overall knowledge of the diversity and host specificity of trypanosome species that phylogenetically group at the base of the T. cruzi clade.
Pterional vs. lateral supraorbital approach in the management of middle cerebral artery aneurysms: insights from a phantom model study
Authors: Amini Amir , Swiatek Vanessa M. , Stein Klaus-Peter , Rashidi Ali , Sandalcioglu I. Erol , Neyazi Belal
Published: July 2024

The pterional approach has traditionally been employed for managing middle cerebral artery (MCA) aneurysms. With potential benefits like reduced surgical morbidity and improved postoperative recovery, the lateral supraorbital approach (LSO) should be considered individually based on aneurysm morphology, location and patient-specific variations of the MCA anatomy, which requires considerable technical expertise traditionally acquired through years of experience. The goal of this study was the development and evaluation of a novel phantom simulator in the context of clinical decision-making in the managmement of MCA aneurysms. For this purpose, high-fidelity simulators inclusive of MCA models with identical M1- and bifurcation aneurysms were manufactured employing 3D reconstruction techniques, additive manufacturing and rheological testings. Medical students, neurosurgical residents, and seasoned neurosurgeons (n = 22) tested and evaluated both approaches. Participants’ performances and progress over time were assessed based on objective metrics. The simulator received positive ratings in face and content validity, with mean scores of 4.9 out of 5, respectively. Objective evaluation demonstrated the model’s efficacy as a practical training tool, particularly among inexperienced participants. While requiring more technical expertise, results of the comparative analysis suggest that the LSO approach can improve clipping precision and outcome particularly in patients with shorter than average M1-segments. In conclusion, the employed methodology allowed a direct comparison of the pterional and LSO approaches, revealing comparable success rates via the LSO approach while reducing operation time and complication rate. Future research should aim to establish simulators in the context of clinical decision making.
Site response analysis by generating a new 3d mesh design with surface topography: a 3d site response analysis of northwest Turkey
Authors: Doğan Ayhan , Dikmen Ünal
Published: July 2024

Predicting soil behavior under dynamic load due to earthquakes is pivotal for engineering structures and human life. Due to various limitations, such as insufficient computers and difficulties in generating models, the third-dimension effect is generally neglected in many studies. Conversely, the third-dimension effect in regions with high topographic differences, deep basins, three-dimensional heterogeneous and anisotropic environments, and alluvium is at a level that cannot be neglected. This study created a three-dimensional model of the northwest of Turkey for the first time by including surface topography. Soil properties were added to this model, and dynamic analysis was performed. This new model aims to increase the accuracy of ground motion predictions in Northwest Turkey. The accuracy of this model was analyzed using real earthquake data recorded in the study area. In addition, a new software (SiteEffect3D) with various features has been developed to create a three-dimensional mesh with topography using digital elevation model data and to perform dynamic analysis more effectively. This software has been tested comparatively with “Plaxis 3D” software using synthetic terrain models. The importance of this study is that in addition to its contributions to site response analysis and seismic hazard assessment, new software has been developed that can be used in similar studies. The findings will provide valuable information for seismic design and construction practices and facilitate the development of more effective strategies to reduce the potential damage from earthquakes in the region.
Role of anionic surfactant addition in improving thermoelectric properties of PEDOT:PSS free-standing films
Authors: Hossain Shafayat , Yamamoto Yuya , Baba Shogo , Sakai Shohei , Kishi Naoki
Published: July 2024

Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) has recently gained interest as a potential candidate for small-scale thermoelectric conversion because of the facile doping, solution processability, and flexibility. However, the practical applications of PEDOT:PSS are limited by its comparatively low figure of merit (ZT) compared with inorganic thermoelectric materials. Herein, to further improve the thermoelectric properties of PEDOT:PSS, we investigated the role of the addition of surfactants, sodium dodecyl sulfate, sodium dodecyl benzenesulfonate (SDBS) or Triton X-100, to the PEDOT:PSS free-standing films on their thermoelectric properties. We showed that the addition of the surfactant improved the film crystallinity, significantly improving the electrical conductivity. The highest conductivity was obtained for anionic surfactant SDBS at a 0.94 wt% concentration. Moreover, the inclusion of the surfactant reduced the thermal conductivity while maintaining a relatively constant Seebeck coefficient, consequently improving the ZT value. Furthermore, a flexible thermoelectric device crafted from the as-fabricated PEDOT:PSS/SDBS sheets was developed to explore the potential applications of wearable electronics using low-grade thermal energy. Overall, we indicate the significance of surfactants in enhancing the thermoelectric properties of free-standing PEDOT:PSS films in this study.
Design and experimental investigation of a thermoelectric vaccine cabinet integrated with photovoltaic and nanofluids
Authors: Cuce Pinar Mert
Published: July 2024

Vaccines are one of the most effective methods used to prevent many lethal and infectious diseases from past to present. Generally, storage temperatures of vaccines are between 2 and 8 °C. Keeping the vaccines in this temperature range and ensuring reach the end user without deterioration is very important in order to prevent the vaccines from losing their effectiveness. In this regard, various cooling systems are used. One of the devices used to ensure the cold storage of vaccines is a thermoelectric device. Thermoelectric devices attract attention as an energy-efficient technology, as well as their compact structure, silent and vibration-free operation, and suitability for automation. In this study, the design and manufacturing of a photovoltaic solar energy-driven, nanofluid-integrated thermoelectric vaccine cabinet was carried out and its performance data were experimentally examined. The capacity of the vaccine cabinet is 200 vaccine vials and 200 ready-to-use syringes, as well as the battery and inverter parts. In experiments carried out at two different outdoor temperatures, heat removal from the hot surface of the thermoelectric cooler with different refrigerants were examined. In addition, the effects of using fans were also investigated while the heat swept from the surface was transferred to the environment with the help of a water-to-air heat exchanger. In the experiments carried out for a total of 8 different cases, the highest average coefficient of performance value obtained during the experiments was 1.19. Experimental results show that vaccine storage temperatures can be reached under the prepared operating conditions.
Cognitive rejuvenation in old rats by hippocampal OSKM gene therapy
Authors: Horvath Steve , Lacunza Ezequiel , Mallat Martina Canatelli , Portiansky Enrique L. , Gallardo Maria D. , Brooke Robert T. , Chiavellini Priscila , Pasquini Diana C. , Girard Mauricio , Lehmann Marianne , Yan Qi , Lu Ake T. , Haghani Amin , Gordevicius Juozas , Abba Martin , Goya Rodolfo G.
Published: July 2024

Several studies have indicated that interrupted epigenetic reprogramming using Yamanaka transcription factors (OSKM) can rejuvenate cells from old laboratory animals and humans. However, the potential of OSKM-induced rejuvenation in brain tissue has been less explored. Here, we aimed to restore cognitive performance in 25.3-month-old female Sprague–Dawley rats using OSKM gene therapy for 39 days. Their progress was then compared with the cognitive performance of untreated 3.5-month-old rats as well as old control rats treated with a placebo adenovector. The Barnes maze test, used to assess cognitive performance, demonstrated enhanced cognitive abilities in old rats treated with OSKM compared to old control animals. In the treated old rats, there was a noticeable trend towards improved spatial memory relative to the old controls. Further, OSKM gene expression did not lead to any pathological alterations within the 39 days. Analysis of DNA methylation following OSKM treatment yielded three insights. First, epigenetic clocks for rats suggested a marginally significant epigenetic rejuvenation. Second, chromatin state analysis revealed that OSKM treatment rejuvenated the methylome of the hippocampus. Third, an epigenome-wide association analysis indicated that OSKM expression in the hippocampus of old rats partially reversed the age-related increase in methylation. In summary, the administration of Yamanaka genes via viral vectors rejuvenates the functional capabilities and the epigenetic landscape of the rat hippocampus.
Model for Surface Tension of Pure Liquid Metals: Revisit to Iida’s Model
Authors: Kang Yoongu , Jung In-Ho
Published: July 2024

In the present study, a well-known Iida’s equation for surface tension was modified to improve the predictivity of the surface tension of pure liquid metals. A semi-empirical equation for the surface tensions ($${\sigma }_{m}$$

σ
m

) of liquid metal at its melting temperature proposed by Iida et al. uses a generalized $$\alpha $$
α
value of 0.51 to represent the ratio of the distance required to separate one atomic pair from its equilibrium distance. This study improved the predictability of the equation by refining the $$\alpha $$
α
value using the equilibrium interatomic distance ($${r}_{e}$$

r
e

) and atomic radius ($${r}_{a}$$

r
a

). Assigning an accurate $$\alpha $$
α
value for each element greatly improves the prediction accuracy of the surface tension for liquid metals. Furthermore, the critical temperature ($${T}_{c}$$

T
c

) was calculated based on the interatomic distance ($${r}_{c}$$

r
c

) at $${T}_{c}$$

T
c

and temperature coefficient of density ($$d{\rho }_{T}$$

d

ρ
T

/$$dT$$

dT

) and used to predict the temperature dependence coefficient of surface tension ($$d{\sigma }_{T}$$

d

σ
T

/$$dT$$

dT

). As results, more accurate surface tensions of 42 liquid metals were predicted over the entire liquid state temperature.

Graphical Abstract
Followers beat content: social media and the managers in initial coin offerings (ICOs)
Authors: Gartner Johannes , Moro Andrea
Published: July 2024

Our research investigates the role of social media communication in amplifying high-quality information and its impact on the success of ICOs in achieving their soft cap. We analyzed data from 3,644 ICOs and the demographics of 1,987 CEOs, CFOs, and CTOs to compare their quality attributes against their number of social media followers. Our findings reveal that the most significant factors for reaching the soft cap are the number of followers and team size, while the competencies (education and skills) of the management team have a very marginal effect, even when enhanced through social media. This indicates that widespread social media signals can positively influence investor behavior without necessarily reducing information asymmetries regarding the quality of the team. We propose that this effect arises from the combination of minimal investment amounts and stimulated herding behavior among investors.
Mitología Griega y Discurso Ecológico
Authors: Muñoz Morcillo Jesús
Published: July 2024

This article explores the use of Greek mythology in current ecological discourse. In Classical Studies, specifically in Classical Tradition studies, the ecocritical revision of Greco-Latin texts and their survival is still in its infancy. The ecological question is usually approached as a reconstruction of notions and uses of nature, with little reference to the contemporary philosophical and cultural discourse that revolves around the cultural causes of the climate crisis, its historical paradoxes, and its future projections. This has led to a situation in which ancient mythology, especially Greek mythology, is used by ecological discourse representatives for argumentative, explanatory, or informative purposes without the required textual criticism and scientific rigor. This paper insists on the need to critically review the ecological readings of Greek mythology to avoid contradictions, paradoxes, or biased interpretations that could weaken the ecocritical debate. Specifically, two predominant tendencies are analyzed: the argumentative use of myth (e.g., in the case of the adamantine chains of Prometheus or the use of Platonic myths) and its resemanticization for a specific discursive purpose (e.g., the reductionist interpretations of Gaia and Medusa) in authors such as Timothy Morton, Jane Bennett, Ursula Heise, or Donna Haraway. The results show that the treatment of Greek myths in the ecological discourse is often subordinated to argumentative needs, avoiding alternative mythographic sources that relativize what has been exposed or venturing into biased interpretations that can lead to undesired contradictions concerning the postulates of the ecological discourse itself.
Adolescents’ School-Based Universal Well-Being Screening: A Validation of the Student Subjective Wellbeing Questionnaire in Portugal
Authors: Serrão Rosário , Dias Pedro , Andrés Ana , Bowe Mhairi , Renshaw Tyler
Published: July 2024

School-based universal well-being screening is proposed within the Multi-tiered Systems of Support approach to collect data on school and individual well-being. Universal screening allows for data-based informed decision, allocating each pupil or set of pupils in universal, selective and/or indicated structured interventions and supports. However, schools require adequate and validated measures of both positive well-being and indicators of psychological health problems. This study focused on the adaptation and validation of the Student Subjective Wellbeing Questionnaire (SSWQ) in Portugal, a tool directed to positive well-being screening. After a translation process, data was collected in 10 schools. A sample of 942 school pupils in the 3rd cycle was randomly split into two subsamples. First was conducted on one subsample, and then, CFA was conducted in the other. Gender and school year invariance were also conducted with the CFA subsample. Internal consistency was likewise analysed. The analysis finished with convergent and discriminant validity. Overall, results supported a second-order factor model (subjective well-being), including four first-order factors, with the elimination of one item and changing one item to another subscale. Results showed good reliability of each factor (all above 0.70). Full measurement invariance was reached for gender (male and female) and school year (7th, 8th and 9th grades). Convergent validity was found with measures of satisfaction with school, group identification with peers and school social support, and divergent validity was found with BPM-Y. Altogether, results support that SSWQ-PG can be used to screen for subjective well-being in schools, helping schools in identifying and addressing pupils’ mental health needs more effectively.
Tales of twin cities: what are climate analogues good for?
Authors: Valente Giovanni , Bobadilla Hernán , El Skaf Rawad , Nappo Francesco
Published: July 2024

This article provides an epistemological assessment of climate analogue methods, with specific reference to the use of spatial analogues in the study of the future climate of target locations. Our contention is that, due to formal and conceptual inadequacies of geometrical dissimilarity metrics and the loss of relevant information, especially when reasoning from the physical to the socio-economical level, purported inferences from climate analogues of the spatial kind we consider here prove limited in a number of ways. Indeed, we formulate five outstanding problems concerning the search for best analogues, which we call the problem of non-uniqueness of the source, problem of non-uniqueness of the target, problem of average, problem of non-causal correlations and problem of inferred properties, respectively. In the face of such problems, we then offer two positive recommendations for a fruitful application of this methodology to the assessment of impact, adaptation and vulnerability studies of climate change, especially in the context of what we may prosaically dub “twin cities”. Arguably, such recommendations help decision-makers constrain the set of plausible climate analogues by integrating local knowledge relevant to the locations of interest.
Magnetic pomegranate peels activated carbon (MG-PPAC) composite for Acid Orange 7 dye removal from wastewater
Authors: Khalil Asmaa , Nazir Muhammad Altaf , Salem Mohamed A. , Ragab Safaa , El Nemr Ahmed
Published: July 2024

A magnetic pomegranate peels activated carbon (MG-PPAC) nanocomposite (23.46–26.75 nm) was prepared as an effective adsorbent for Acid Orange 7 (AO7) dye removal from wastewater. The effects of impregnation ratio and activation temperatures (600–900 °C) on the specific surface area and pore morphology were studied. BET, SEM, EDX, FT-IR, XRD and VSM are considered the synthesized composite MG-PPAC. The prepared magnetic composite at 700 °C activation temperature and impregnation ratio 1/2 (peels/ZnCl2) exhibited 513.34 m2/g surface area, 0.4025 cm3/g volume of the total pores, and 3.1364 nm mean diameter of the pores. The magnetization saturation, remanence and coercivity of the MG-PPA composite were 14.116 emu/g, 0.50685 emu/g, and 19.705 G, respectively. Also, the composite MG-PPAC was in a super-paramagnetic state at room temperature and could be gathered within 5 S (less than 5 S) with an external magnetic field. The impact of pH, adsorbent dose, initial concentration of adsorbate (AO7 dye), and time of contact have been studied to optimize the removal process. Langmuir, Freundlich and Temkin isotherm models were used to investigate MG-PPAC adsorption behavior for AO7 dye. Applicability of the Langmuir isotherm model demonstrates a monolayer adsorption AO7 dye removal process, and the maximum monolayer capacity (Qm) attained from linear solvation of LIM is 322.58 mg/g. Furthermore, the highest removal was 99.53% at pH 2.25. Also, the adsorption process was tested using like pseudo-first-order, pseudo-second-order, intraparticle diffusion, film diffusion, and Elovich models. The pseudo-second-order model is well-fitted to the operational data of AO7 dye removal.
A multilevel backbone extraction framework
Authors: Hmaida Sanaa , Cherifi Hocine , El Hassouni Mohammed
Published: July 2024

As networks grow in size and complexity, backbones become an essential network representation. Indeed, they provide a simplified yet informative overview of the underlying organization by retaining the most significant and structurally influential connections within a network. Network heterogeneity often results in complex and intricate structures, making it challenging to identify the backbone. In response, we introduce the Multilevel Backbone Extraction Framework, a novel approach that diverges from conventional backbone methodologies. This generic approach prioritizes the mesoscopic organization of networks. First, it splits the network into homogeneous-density components. Second, it extracts independent backbones for each component using any classical Backbone technique. Finally, the various backbones are combined. This strategy effectively addresses the heterogeneity observed in network groupings. Empirical investigations on real-world networks underscore the efficacy of the Multilevel Backbone approach in preserving essential network structures and properties. Experiments demonstrate its superiority over classical methods in handling network heterogeneity and enhancing network integrity. The framework is adaptable to various types of networks and backbone extraction techniques, making it a versatile tool for network analysis and backbone extraction across diverse network applications.
Gravity experiments with radio pulsars
Authors: Freire Paulo C. C. , Wex Norbert
Published: July 2024

The discovery of the first pulsar in a binary star system, the Hulse–Taylor pulsar, 50 years ago opened up an entirely new field of experimental gravity. For the first time it was possible to investigate strong-field and radiative aspects of the gravitational interaction. Continued observations of the Hulse–Taylor pulsar eventually led, among other confirmations of the predictions of general relativity (GR), to the first evidence for the reality of gravitational waves. In the meantime, many more radio pulsars have been discovered that are suitable for testing GR and its alternatives. One particularly remarkable binary system is the Double Pulsar, which has far surpassed the Hulse–Taylor pulsar in several respects. In addition, binary pulsar-white dwarf systems have been shown to be particularly suitable for testing alternative gravitational theories, as they often predict strong dipolar gravitational radiation for such asymmetric systems. A rather unique pulsar laboratory is the pulsar in a hierarchical stellar triple, that led to by far the most precise confirmation of the strong-field version of the universality of free fall. Using radio pulsars, it could be shown that additional aspects of the Strong Equivalence Principle apply to the dynamics of strongly self-gravitating bodies, like the local position and local Lorentz invariance of the gravitational interaction. So far, GR has passed all pulsar tests with flying colours, while at the same time many alternative gravity theories have either been strongly constrained or even falsified. New telescopes, instrumentation, timing and search algorithms promise a significant improvement of the existing tests and the discovery of (qualitatively) new, more relativistic binary systems.
Assessing the current and future trends of climate extremes at Zarima subbasin North Western Ethiopia
Authors: Kassahun Meaza , Ture Kassahun , Nedaw Dessie
Published: July 2024

Climate extreme events in Ethiopia have increased, impacting the country’s agriculture dependent economy. Localized studies on rainfall extremes provides valuable insights to develop mitigation measures. This study focuses on the analysis of rainfall extremes for the observed (1984–2018) and the future mid time period (2031–2065) and end time period (2066–2100) projected under RCP4.5: moderate emissions reduction scenario aiming to stabilize greenhouse gas concentrations by the mid-21st century and RCP8.5: high emissions scenario with continued increase in greenhouse gas emissions throughout the twenty-first century. Trend analysis was done using R statistical software modified Man Kendell package. The result revealed that the observed total rainfall in wet days (PRCPTOT) showed insignificant declining trend across the subbasin. Under the RCP4.5 scenario, mid time period projections indicated increasing trends in PRCPTOT at Maytsebri, Adiremet and Debarik stations while decreasing trends expected at Ketema Niguse and Zarima stations. In the RCP4.5 end time period, Debarik and Zarima stations showed increasing trends while other stations exhibited decreasing trends. Under the RCP8.5 scenario, PRCPTOT showed insignificant decreasing trend except Ketema Niguse station which showed significant increasing trend during the mid time period. The observed annual maximum 1-day rainfall (RX1day) and annual RX5day rainfall had both positive and negative trends over subbasin. The RCP4.5 scenario projected declining trends in annual RX1day rainfall, while the RCP8.5 scenario projected increasing trends, except the end time projection of Debarik station. Consecutive dry days (CDD) increased and Consecutive wet days (CWD) decreased insignificantly in majority the subbasin. Projections indicated higher CDD and decreased CWD are expected in majority of the subbasin area. These finding implied that further investigation is required on the impact of climate extremes.
Command responsibility in military AI contexts: balancing theory and practicality
Authors: Oimann Ann-Katrien , Salatino Adriana
Published: July 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) has found extensive applications to varying degrees across diverse domains, including the possibility of using it within military contexts for making decisions that can have moral consequences. A recurring challenge in this area concerns the allocation of moral responsibility in the case of negative AI-induced outcomes. Some scholars posit the existence of an insurmountable “responsibility gap”, wherein neither the AI system nor the human agents involved can or should be held responsible. Conversely, other scholars dispute the presence of such gaps or propose potential solutions. One solution that frequently emerges in the literature on AI ethics is the concept of command responsibility, wherein human agents may be held responsible because they perform a supervisory role over the (subordinate) AI. In the article we examine the compatibility of command responsibility in light of recent empirical studies and psychological evidence, aiming to anchor discussions in empirical realities rather than relying exclusively on normative arguments. Our argument can be succinctly summarized as follows: (1) while the theoretical foundation of command responsibility appears robust (2) its practical implementation raises significant concerns, (3) yet these concerns alone should not entirely preclude its application (4) they underscore the importance of considering and integrating empirical evidence into ethical discussions.