bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding Temporary Labour Migration Through the Lens of Caste: India Case Study
Authors: Rajan S. Irudaya , Keshri Kunal , Deshingkar Priya
Published: June 2023

Temporary labour migration is known to be one of the most important livelihood options used by the poorest sectors of society in a variety of contexts, in developing countries, including India. Using large-scale data from the Indian National Sample Survey, 2007–2008, this chapter tries to explain the structure and flow of temporary labour migration, and its relationship with caste. The results suggest that the highest share of temporary labour migrants is found among rural to urban migrants (63%), and that there is a dominance of inter-state migration, particularly from the under-developed states of Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh. Our analysis corroborates earlier studies and shows that temporary labour migration rates are higher at the national level among the most disadvantaged social groups, namely the Scheduled Tribes (STs) and the Scheduled Castes (SCs) (45 and 24 per 1000 respectively) compared to Other Backward Classes (19 per 1000) and Others (12 per 1000). Our analysis shows that temporary labour migration rates were twice as high among the poorest of the poor as any other caste group. The findings point to a strong link between caste and temporary migration in India.
Attraction and Detraction: Migration Drivers in Bhutan
Authors: Gosai Mayur A. , Sulewski Leanne
Published: June 2023

While migration in Bhutan has often been characterized as predominantly rural-urban movement, the 2017 Population and Housing Census of Bhutan (PHCB) recently recognized rural-rural movement as the second largest migration trend in the country. With the census identifying family and employment moves as the two largest motivators for migration within the country, where are migrants most likely to migrate to in order to find opportunities? Obvious hubs of employment are the capital city of Thimphu, as the seat of government, and Paro, with the nation’s only international airport, both located in the more populous western part of the country. Other employment opportunities stem from the nation’s rich natural resources and the harnessing of those natural resources. The census in 2017 combined with variety of data sources is examined to identify some rationale in migration patterns. This research will seek to identify these migration drivers, as well as to identify the less obvious migration drivers throughout the country and their spatial patterns to help account for the nuanced migration patterns in this geographically diverse country.
Methodologies for Sustainable Development of TEN-T/RFC Corridors and Core Ports: Settlement Capacity of Industrial Firms in Port Related Areas
Authors: Russo Francesco , Chilà Giovanna , Zito Clara
Published: June 2023

The issue of industrial areas with specific rules and incentives, identified as Special Economic Zones has become increasingly important for undeveloped European regions. On a world level, the SEZs have allowed the significant development of the territories concerned. The main experiences are in the area of ports. It is possible to model some main developments that the SEZ can achieve on the basis of international results. It is modeled the maximum potential increase in employment due to the establishment of a SEZ, subject to land constraints. A test case is proposed referring to the TEN-T core node of Gioia Tauro in the Southern of Italy.
Methodologies for Sustainable Development of TEN-T/RFC Corridors and Core Ports: Public Incentives for Industrial Activities Location in Port Related Areas
Authors: Pellicanò Domenica Savia , Trecozzi Maria Rosaria
Published: June 2023

The Special Economic Zone (SEZ) is a regulated area where industrial activities are facilitated and have many incentives in order to become more competitive and attractive. The establishment of a SEZ is the responsibility of the national government which provides a model based on specific measures to attract investment. The local administrations have to define a plan, according to the national model, for the development of the SEZs in order to respect and enhance the peculiarities of each area. The goal is to push the strategic connection among logistics, industry and ports through incentive packages, including fiscal and non-fiscal ones, in order to have strong repercussions on economic development.

The impacts of the SEZs can be assessed in terms of sustainability: social, environmental and economic. In relation to economic sustainability, the paper proposes a general model developed to estimate the financial burdens borne by the regional and national administrations deriving from the establishment of the SEZ. The paper introduces a test case of Calabria Region to estimate the financial burdens necessary for the SEZ establishment in the Gioia Tauro macro-node, into the TEN-T core network and the RFC.
Time-like entanglement entropy in AdS/BCFT
Authors: Chu Chong-Sun , Parihar Himanshu
Published: June 2023

Abstract

We study the entanglement entropy for time-like subsystem in two-dimensional boundary conformal field theory (BCFT) both from the field theory and holographic point of view. In field theory, we compute the time-like entanglement entropy of a pure time-like interval at zero and finite temperature using the replica technique and analytical continuation. We find that, similar to the ordinary space-like entanglement entropy in BCFT, the time-like entropy also has a bulk phase and a boundary phase which corresponds respectively to the dominance of the identity block in the bulk and boundary OPE channels. However, we find that in Lorentzian BCFT, the time-like entanglement entropy posses a third Regge phase which arises in the Regge limit of the interval, when one endpoint of the time interval approaches the light cone of the mirror image of the other endpoint. We determine the phase diagram for the time-like entanglement entropy. We find that while the time-like entropy is complex in the bulk phase and has a boundary term in the boundary phase, there is no boundary entropy in the Regge phase. Moreover, it can be real or complex depending on which side the Regge limit is approached from. On the gravity side, we obtain the holographic time-like entanglement entropy from the corresponding bulk dual geometries and find exact agreement with the field theory results. The time-like entanglement entropy may be useful to describe the entanglement of a quantum dot on a half line.
Monomial functions, normal polynomials and polynomial equations
Authors: Gselmann Eszter , Iqbal Mehak
Published: June 2023

In this paper we consider generalized monomial functions $$f, g:{\mathbb {F}}\rightarrow {\mathbb {C}}$$

f
,
g
:
F
→
C

(of possibly different degree) that also fulfill $$\begin{aligned} f(P(x))= Q(g(x)) \qquad \left( x\in {\mathbb {F}}\right) , \end{aligned}$$

f

(
P

(
x
)

)

=
Q

(
g

(
x
)

)

x
∈
F

,

where $$P\in {\mathbb {F}}[x]$$

P
∈
F
[
x
]

and $$Q\in {\mathbb {C}}[x]$$

Q
∈
C
[
x
]

are given (classical) polynomials.
Association between craniofacial patterns and third molar agenesis in orthodontic patients
Authors: Paddenberg Eva , Silva-Souza Alice Correa , Blancato Ariane Beatriz , Lepri César Penazzo , Proff Peter , Küchler Erika Calvano , Kirschneck Christian
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Third molar agenesis (TMA) is the most common craniofacial anomaly and has been associated with craniofacial patterns in different populations. Therefore, the aim of this retrospective cross-sectional study was to assess a possible association between craniofacial patterns and TMA in German orthodontic patients.

Methods

Patients undergoing orthodontic treatment with dental records including anamnesis, pretreatment lateral cephalograms and orthopantomograms were evaluated. Cephalometric analyses were conducted digitally and lines, angles and proportions were measured to investigate craniofacial morphology. Skeletal classes were determined by the individualised Wits appraisal and ANB angle. The TMA was identified with the help of orthopantomograms. Patients showing agenesis of at least one third molar were included in the TMA group. Statistical analysis was performed to assess the association between TMA and craniofacial patterns (α of p ≤ 0.05).

Results

A total of 148 patients were included, 40 (27.0%) presented at least one missing tooth (TMA group) and 108 (73.0%) showed full dentition (control group). Skeletal class determined by the individualised Wits appraisal revealed statistical significance between the TMA and control groups (p = 0.022), in which TMA patients were 11 times more likely to present with an individualised skeletal class III (odds ratio 11.3, 95% confidence interval 1.7–139.5). Skeletal cephalometric analysis revealed no statistical differences between TMA and control groups for any further angular, linear and proportional parameters.

Conclusion

Third molar agenesis was associated with skeletal class III determined by the individualised Wits appraisal.
SARS-CoV-2-associated fatalities within the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic: an autopsy study
Authors: Autsch Angelina , Ihle Hannah , Kleemann Sandra , Sanft Juliane , Hahnemann Maria , Hubig Michael , Philipp Mike , Bauer Michael , Deinhardt-Emmer Stefanie , Gaßler Nikolaus , Mall Gita , Wittschieber Daniel
Published: June 2023

Background

COVID-19 now exists for more than 3 years and has caused almost 7 million deaths worldwide. At the beginning of this study only little was known on the patients’ characteristics and comparative autopsy studies are still rare.

Material and methods

Between 11 March 2020 and 10 March 2021, 55 consecutive and complete autopsies of individuals who died in association with SARS-CoV‑2 infections were performed shortly after death (median PMI 6.8 h) by the same team. Clinical data were available in 45 of 55 cases. 1st vs. 2nd infection wave cases and male vs. female cases were compared.

Results

Thirty-five patients were male (63.6%) 20 were female (36.4%), average age 72.4 years. Seventeen cases (30.9%) could be assigned to the 1st and 38 cases (69.1%) to the 2nd infection wave. Forty-two of the decedents (76.4%) died due to COVID-19. Arterial hypertension, obesity, and cardiac hypertrophy were the most frequent detected comorbidities.

Discussion

The present study corroborates previous research data but also reveals new approaches for further comparative studies. Patient-specific personal and general ICU-related risk factors for the development of thromboembolisms oppose the effects of changes in anticoagulant medication.
The potential of thermally conductive polymer composites regarding crystallization fouling mitigation
Authors: Kiepfer H. , Stannek P. , Kuypers M. , Grundler M. , Bart H.-J.
Published: June 2023

The fouling kinetics and amount of calcium sulfate and calcium carbonate, respectively, on different polypropylene/graphite composites in a flat plate heat exchanger are determined and compared to the reference material stainless-steel. For a straight evaluation of the fouling susceptibility of the materials the formation of bubbles on the materials is considered by optical imaging or excluded by a degasser. The results are interpreted using surface free energy and roughness of the surfaces.

The results show that when bubble formation is avoided, the polymer composites have a very low fouling tendency compared to stainless steel. This is particularly the case when turbulent flows are present or when sandblasted specimen are used. Sandblasting also continues to increase heat transfer compared to untreated samples by increasing thermal conductivity and creating local turbulences. Depending on the test conditions, the fouling resistance formed on the stainless-steel surface is an order of magnitude greater than on the polymer composites. In addition, the fouling layers adhere only weakly to the composites, which indicates an easy cleaning in place after the formation of deposits.
Bessel beam generated LIPSS on NiTi wires
Authors: Marx Jan , Gurevich Evgeny L. , Schuleit Marvin , Esen Cemal , Ostendorf Andreas
Published: June 2023

Ultrashort laser pulses are used to generate Laser-Induced Periodic Surface Structures (LIPSS). To apply LIPSS on small confined areas, the laser source must be focused to a small spot diameter. Contrary to commonly used high numerical aperture objectives, we present a Bessel beam-based approach to produce LIPSS covered lines with a width of 4 to 10 µm. Therefore, an 800 nm Ti:Sa-laser with a pulse duration of 110 fs and a repetition rate of 5000 Hz was used. The setup convinces with an extended depth of focus. Thus, high reproducibility of the process was proven, while no focus control and no specific requirements for the surface quality are needed. The applicability of this method is demonstrated by structuring the shell surface of nickel–titanium wires.
Translational control of Ybx1 expression regulates cardiac function in response to pressure overload in vivo
Authors: Varma Eshita , Burghaus Jana , Schwarzl Thomas , Sekaran Thileepan , Gupta Parul , Górska Agnieszka A. , Hofmann Christoph , Stroh Claudia , Jürgensen Lonny , Kamuf-Schenk Verena , Li Xue , Medert Rebekka , Leuschner Florian , Kmietczyk Vivien , Freichel Marc , Katus Hugo A. , Hentze Matthias W. , Frey Norbert , Völkers Mirko
Published: June 2023

RNA–protein interactions are central to cardiac function, but how activity of individual RNA-binding protein is regulated through signaling cascades in cardiomyocytes during heart failure development is largely unknown. The mechanistic target of rapamycin kinase is a central signaling hub that controls mRNA translation in cardiomyocytes; however, a direct link between mTOR signaling and RNA-binding proteins in the heart has not been established. Integrative transcriptome and translatome analysis revealed mTOR dependent translational upregulation of the RNA binding protein Ybx1 during early pathological remodeling independent of mRNA levels. Ybx1 is necessary for pathological cardiomyocyte growth by regulating protein synthesis. To identify the molecular mechanisms how Ybx1 regulates cellular growth and protein synthesis, we identified mRNAs bound to Ybx1. We discovered that eucaryotic elongation factor 2 (Eef2) mRNA is bound to Ybx1, and its translation is upregulated during cardiac hypertrophy dependent on Ybx1 expression. Eef2 itself is sufficient to drive pathological growth by increasing global protein translation. Finally, Ybx1 depletion in vivo preserved heart function during pathological cardiac hypertrophy. Thus, activation of mTORC1 links pathological signaling cascades to altered gene expression regulation by activation of Ybx1 which in turn promotes translation through increased expression of Eef2.
Low-dimensional data-based surrogate model of a continuum-mechanical musculoskeletal system based on non-intrusive model order reduction
Authors: Kneifl Jonas , Rosin David , Avci Okan , Röhrle Oliver , Fehr Jörg
Published: June 2023

Over the last decades, computer modeling has evolved from a supporting tool for engineering prototype design to an ubiquitous instrument in non-traditional fields such as medical rehabilitation. This area comes with unique challenges, e.g. the complex modeling of soft tissue or the analysis of musculoskeletal systems. Conventional modeling approaches like the finite element (FE) method are computationally costly when dealing with such models, limiting their usability for real-time simulation or deployment on low-end hardware, if the model at hand cannot be simplified without losing its expressiveness. Non-traditional approaches such as surrogate modeling using data-driven model order reduction are used to make complex high-fidelity models more widely available regardless. They often involve a dimensionality reduction step, in which the high-dimensional system state is transformed onto a low-dimensional subspace or manifold, and a regression approach to capture the reduced system behavior. While most publications focus on one dimensionality reduction, such as principal component analysis (PCA) (linear) or autoencoder (nonlinear), we consider and compare PCA, kernel PCA, autoencoders, as well as variational autoencoders for the approximation of a continuum-mechanical system. In detail, we demonstrate the benefits of the surrogate modeling approach on a complex musculoskeletal system of a human upper-arm with severe nonlinearities and physiological geometry. We consider both, the model’s deformation and the internal stress as the two main quantities of interest in a FE context. By doing so we are able to create computationally low-cost surrogate models which capture the system behavior with high approximation quality and fast evaluations.
Acute Dysphagia Following Reperfusion Therapies: A Prospective Pilot Cohort Study
Authors: Minchell Ellie , Rumbach Anna , Farrell Anna , Burns Clare L. , Wong Andrew , Finch Emma
Published: June 2023

Dysphagia is a well-documented sequela of stroke. Recent advancements in medical treatments for stroke include reperfusion therapies (endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) and thrombolysis). As outcomes following reperfusion therapies are typically measured via general functional scales, the pattern and progression of acute dysphagia following reperfusion therapies is less known. To determine the progression of acute dysphagia (0–72 h) following reperfusion therapies and relationships between various stroke parameters and dysphagia, twenty-six patients were prospectively recruited across two EVT and thrombolysis centres in Brisbane, Australia. Dysphagia was screened via the Gugging Swallowing Screen (GUSS) at the bedside at three timepoints: 0–24 h, 24–48 h, and 48–72 h post-reperfusion therapies. Across three groups (EVT only, thrombolysis only, or both), the incidence of any dysphagia within the first 24 h of reperfusion therapy was 92.31% (n = 24/26), 91.30% (n = 21/23) by 48 h, and 90.91% (n = 20/22) by 72 h. Fifteen patients presented with severe dysphagia at 0–24 h, 10 at 24–48 h, and 10 at 48–72 h. Whilst dysphagia was not significantly correlated to infarct penumbra/core size, dysphagia severity was significantly related to the number of passes required during EVT (p = 0.009).Dysphagia continues to persist in the acute stroke population despite recent advancements in technology aimed to reduce morbidity and mortality post-stroke. Further research is required to establish protocols for management of dysphagia post-reperfusion therapies.
Previous traumatic brain injury is associated with an increased odds for gestational diabetes: a nationwide register-based cohort study in finland
Authors: Vaajala Matias , Kuitunen Ilari , Liukkonen Rasmus , Ponkilainen Ville , Kekki Maiju , Mattila Ville M.
Published: June 2023

Aims

Despite recent findings that traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a possible risk factor for type 2 diabetes (DM2) and that a strong association exists between gestational diabetes (GDM) and the risk for the development of DM2, no previous studies have investigated the effects of TBI on the risk for the development of GDM. Therefore, this study aims to determine the possible association between a previous traumatic brain injury and later gestational diabetes.

Methods

In this retrospective register-based cohort study, data from the National Medical Birth Register were combined with data from the Care Register for Health Care. Women who had sustained a TBI before pregnancy were included in the patient group. Women who had sustained previous fractures of the upper extremity, pelvis, or lower extremity were included in the control group. A logistic regression model was used to assess the risk for the development of GDM during pregnancy. Adjusted odds ratios (aOR) with 95% confidence intervals between the groups were compared. The model was adjusted by prepregnancy body mass index (BMI) and maternal age during pregnancy, the use of in vitro fertilization (IVF), maternal smoking status, and multiple pregnancies. The risk for the development of GDM during different periods following the injury (0–3 years, 3–6 years, 6–9 years, and 9+ years) was calculated.

Results

In total, a 75 g 2-h oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was performed on 6802 pregnancies of women who had sustained a TBI and on 11 717 pregnancies of women who sustained fractures of the upper extremity, pelvis, or lower extremity. Of these, 1889 (27.8%) pregnancies were diagnosed with GDM in the patient group and 3117 (26.6%) in the control group. The total odds for GDM were higher after TBI compared to the other traumas (aOR 1.14, CI 1.06–1.22). The odds were highest at 9 + years after the injury (aOR 1.22, CI 1.07–1.39).

Conclusion

The total odds for the development of GDM after TBI were higher when compared to the control group. Based on our findings, more research on this topic is warranted. Moreover, a history of TBI should be considered a possible risk factor for the development of GDM.
Systematic effect of particle roundness/angularity on macro- and microscopic behavior of granular materials
Authors: Ali Usman , Kikumoto Mamoru , Ciantia Matteo , Cui Ying , Previtali Marco
Published: June 2023

Roundness/angularity is a vital shape descriptor that significantly impacts the mechanical response of granular materials and is closely associated with many geotechnical problems, such as liquefaction, slope stability, and bearing capacity. In this study, a series of biaxial shearing tests are conducted on dual-size aluminum circular and hexagonal rod material. A novel image analysis technique is used to estimate particle kinematics. A discrete element model (DEM) of the biaxial shearing test is then developed and validated by comparing it with the complete experimental data set. To systematically investigate the effect of roundness/angularity on granular behavior, the DEM model is then used to simulate eight non-elongated convex polygonal-shaped particles. Macroscopically, it is observed that angular assemblies exhibit higher shear strengths and volumetric deformations, i.e., dilations. Moreover, a unique relationship is observed between the critical state stress ratio and particle roundness. Microscopically, the roundness shows a considerable effect on rotational behavior such that the absolute mean cumulative rotation at the same strain level increases with roundness. A decrease in roundness results in relatively stronger interlocking, restricting an individual particle’s free rotation. Furthermore, the particles inside the shear band exhibit significantly higher rotations and are always associated with low coordination numbers. Generally, the geometrical shape of a particle is found to have a dominant effect on rotational behavior than coordination number.

Graphical Abstract
Changes in vegetation greenness related to climatic and non-climatic factors in the Sudano-Sahelian region
Authors: Zeng Yelong , Jia Li , Menenti Massimo , Jiang Min , Barnieh Beatrice Asenso , Bennour Ali , Lv Yunzhe
Published: June 2023

The potential drivers of vegetation changes in the Sudano-Sahelian region of Africa remain poorly understood due to complex interactions between climatic and anthropogenic processes. In this study, we analyzed the vegetation greenness trends in relation to rainfall variability that we considered the essence of climatic effects on vegetation in a well-known water-limited environment by using time series of satellite data in the Sudano-Sahelian region during 2001–2020. We quantified in more detail the relative contributions of rainfall variability (climatic factor), land use/land cover (LULC) change, and fire occurrence change (non-climatic factors) to vegetation greenness trends in selected sub-regions. The results showed that vegetation greening was widespread (26.9% of the total study area), while vegetation browning was more clustered in central West Africa (5% of the total study area). About half of the vegetation greening area can be explained by long-term rainfall variability during 2001–2020, but most of the area characterized by a browning trend was unrelated to rainfall variability. An analysis of the relative importance showed that LULC changes had significant local effects on vegetation greenness and that these changes were characterized by a strong spatial heterogeneity in specific sub-regions. Gains in cropland and natural vegetation related to positive land management were probably the dominant drivers of greening in Senegal and Ethiopia. Also, the combined impacts of rainfall variability and LULC changes contributed to greening trends in the arid zone, particularly in Mali and Sudan. In contrast, vegetation browning in central West Africa appeared to be driven by cropland gain and natural vegetation loss associated with extensive agricultural production activities. Furthermore, we found that repeated fires for agricultural expansion in central West Africa intensified vegetation browning. These results advanced our understanding of vegetation dynamics in response to climatic and non-climatic factors in Sudano-Sahelian drylands characterized by increasing pressures on land resources.
Online decision making for trading wind energy
Authors: Muñoz Miguel Angel , Pinson Pierre , Kazempour Jalal
Published: June 2023

We propose and develop a new algorithm for trading wind energy in electricity markets, within an online learning and optimization framework. In particular, we combine a component-wise adaptive variant of the gradient descent algorithm with recent advances in the feature-driven newsvendor model. This results in an online offering approach capable of leveraging data-rich environments, while adapting to the nonstationary characteristics of energy generation and electricity markets, also with a minimal computational burden. The performance of our approach is analyzed based on several numerical experiments, showing both better adaptability to nonstationary uncertain parameters and significant economic gains.
Topo-Iberia CGPS network: a new 3D crustal velocity field in the Iberian Peninsula and Morocco based on 11 years (2008–2019)
Authors: García-Armenteros Juan A.
Published: June 2023

The Topo-Iberia network covering the Spanish part of the Iberian Peninsula and Morocco was established in 2008. Following the first publication of the horizontal velocity field based on an analysis of the first 4 years (2008–2012) in 2015, a new 3D velocity field based on 11 years (2008–2019) is presented. The double-differencing technique is applied with GAMIT software, and the precise point positioning (PPP) technique is applied with GipsyX software for GPS processing to obtain loosely constrained solutions. Then, a kalman filter is used to merge both solutions using GLOBK software and produce a velocity solution. The combined velocity solution is presented as a new horizontal velocity field and the first vertical velocity field of the Topo-Iberia CGPS network. A global view of the data quality from the Topo-Iberia stations is also presented for the first time, as well as a program specifically created to convert GipsyX gdcov files to SINEX files, gdcov2sinex.sh. The results in the IGb14 reference frame are in good agreement with previous publications, except in the Betic Cordillera, where the new velocities with respect to Eurasia are generally lower and present a higher southwestward component rather than a purely westward motion. The main discrepancy is observed at the ALJI station, where the maximum velocity is reached (3 ± 0.1 mm/yr), showing west-northwestward motion. The smallest and highest residual displacements with respect to Eurasia occur in northern Iberia and Morocco, respectively. The results support the conclusions of other studies that a clockwise block rotation occurs at present in the northern branch of the Gibraltar Arc. The velocities indicate a northwest-southeast convergence rate of 3.5 ± 0.1 mm/yr with respect to Nubia. A general low subsidence (mean value of 0.5 ± 0.1 mm/yr) is observed in the Iberian Peninsula except for some isolated stations presenting uplift.
Optimizing biomass pathways to bioenergy and biochar application in electricity generation, biodiesel production, and biohydrogen production
Authors: Osman Ahmed I. , Lai Zhi Ying , Farghali Mohamed , Yiin Chung Loong , Elgarahy Ahmed M· , Hammad Ahmed , Ihara Ikko , Al-Fatesh Ahmed Sadeq , Rooney David W· , Yap Pow-Seng
Published: June 2023

The current energy crisis, depletion of fossil fuels, and global climate change have made it imperative to find alternative sources of energy that are both economically sustainable and environmentally friendly. Here we review various pathways for converting biomass into bioenergy and biochar and their applications in producing electricity, biodiesel, and biohydrogen. Biomass can be converted into biofuels using different methods, including biochemical and thermochemical conversion methods. Determining which approach is best relies on the type of biomass involved, the desired final product, and whether or not it is economically sustainable. Biochemical conversion methods are currently the most widely used for producing biofuels from biomass, accounting for approximately 80% of all biofuels produced worldwide. Ethanol and biodiesel are the most prevalent biofuels produced via biochemical conversion processes. Thermochemical conversion is less used than biochemical conversion, accounting for approximately 20% of biofuels produced worldwide. Bio-oil and syngas, commonly manufactured from wood chips, agricultural waste, and municipal solid waste, are the major biofuels produced by thermochemical conversion. Biofuels produced from biomass have the potential to displace up to 27% of the world's transportation fuel by 2050, which could result in a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by up to 3.7 billion metric tons per year. Biochar from biomass can yield high biodiesel, ranging from 32.8% to 97.75%, and can also serve as an anode, cathode, and catalyst in microbial fuel cells with a maximum power density of 4346 mW/m2. Biochar also plays a role in catalytic methane decomposition and dry methane reforming, with hydrogen conversion rates ranging from 13.4% to 95.7%. Biochar can also increase hydrogen yield by up to 220.3%.
Conversational Fluency and Attitudes Towards Robot Pilots in Telepresence Robot-Mediated Interactions
Authors: Fox Tree Jean E. , Herring Susan C. , Nguyen Allison , Whittaker Steve , Martin Rob , Takayama Leila
Published: June 2023

In a controlled lab experiment, we compared how in-person and robot-mediated communicative settings affected attitudes towards communicators and discourse phenomena related to conversational negotiation. We used a mock interview within-participants experiment design where each participant (mock interviewee) experienced both types of communication with the same experimenter (mock interviewer). Despite communicating with the same person, participants found the in-person interviewer to be more likable, more capable, more intelligent, more polite, more in control, and less awkward than the same person using a telepresence robot. Behaviorally, we did not detect differences in participants’ productions of discourse phenomena (likes, you knows, ums, uhs), laughter, or gaze. We also tested the role of communicative expectations on attitudes towards communications. We primed participants to expect that they would be talking to a person via telepresence, a “disabled” robot-person combination using telepresence, or a person in person (between-participants). We did not find differences arising from people’s expectations of the communication.
Leaf rust resistance genes in Aegilops genus: occurrence and efficiency
Authors: Koláriková Lucia , Svobodová-Leišová Leona , Hanzalová Alena , Holubec Vojtěch , Jungová Michaela , Esimbekova Minura
Published: June 2023

Leaf rust is a common and costly wheat disease. The introduction of resistance genes derived from wheat wild relatives is one way to improve disease control. However, due to the rapid development of virulence in the casual pathogen Puccinia triticina, the long-term effectiveness of some leaf rust resistance (Lr) genes is questionable. To assess this, we examined 130 accessions of 13 wheat wild relative species from the Aegilops genus. The presence of 9 Lr genes was determined by PCR using primers complementary to Lr gene markers. The studied individuals were exposed to artificial inoculation with P. triticina under greenhouse and field conditions, respectively. Based on infection rate, the degree of resistance for each individual was estimated. The relationship between the presence of Lr genes and the degree of manifested resistance was assessed using canonical correlation analysis (CCA) and analysis of variance (ANOVA). Our results indicate the effective participation of Lr9 in seedling resistance while Lr58 is involved in adult plant resistance.
Rumination in Response to a Social Interaction: Psychometric Properties of the Socially Anxious Rumination Questionnaire (SARQ) in Social Anxiety Disorder
Authors: Wilson Emily J. , Abbott Maree J. , Donohue Hayley E. , Rapee Ronald M. , Carpenter Leigh , Gaston Jonathan E.
Published: June 2023

Increased negative rumination is a cognitive process understood to maintain social anxiety disorder (SAD). The Socially Anxious Rumination Questionnaire (SARQ) is a measure with two parallel versions that reflect pre-event rumination (i.e., SARQ-pre) and post-event rumination (i.e., SARQ-post). Given that anxiety in SAD can pertain to both performative and interactional situations, evaluation of questionnaires in these different contexts is important for determining how pre-event and post-event rumination may vary according to the type of situation. The current study aimed to investigate the psychometric properties of the SARQ in relation to a conversation task. The study also aimed to determine whether pre-event and post-event rumination levels vary following different social tasks. All participants had a principal diagnosis of SAD. Participants completed the SARQ-pre (n = 134) and SARQ-post (n = 124) in relation to a 5-minute conversation and a 3-minute speech in counterbalanced order. Confirmatory factor analyses endorsed a unidimensional interpretation for the SARQ-pre and SARQ-post in relation to a conversation. The SARQ-pre and SARQ-post also demonstrated good construct validity, excellent internal consistency, and treatment sensitivity following cognitive behavioral therapy. The SARQ-pre scores were significantly higher in anticipation of a speech when compared to scores on an upcoming conversation. The SARQ-post scores were significantly elevated one-week following a conversation, in comparison to the scores collected regarding a speech. The SARQ has good psychometric properties and is a valid and reliable instrument to use as a measure of pre-event and post-event rumination in relation to a conversation.
The Prevalence and Severity of Dental Caries Among Pregnant Women in the State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Authors: Groisman S. , de Soet J. J. , Volgenant C. M.C.
Published: June 2023

Aim

To assess in a pilot study the prevalence and severity of dental caries among pregnant women compared to non-pregnant women in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Materials and methods

A cross-sectional, observational study was conducted. Data collection consisted of clinical examinations and general questionnaires concerning oral hygiene habits and recent dental visits of pregnant and non-pregnant women. Prevalence and severity of caries was determined by the CAST index and the CAST severity score. Permission for this study was granted by the National Research Ethics Commission of Brazil. Written informed consent was obtained from all participants.

Results

In total, 67 pregnant women were included (mean age (SD) 25.5 ± 5.4 years) and 79 non-pregnant women (26.0 ± 5.3 years). Mean number of teeth with untreated caries (CAST 4–7) among pregnant women was significantly lower (1.2 ± 1.8) compared to non-pregnant women (2.7 ± 4.0; Mann-Whitney test, p = 0.027). In both groups, 40–60% were in need of curative treatment. There was no significant difference between the two groups in frequency of dental visits (p > 0.05), but pregnant women brushed their teeth more often (Mann-Whitney test, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Pregnant women in the state of Rio de Janeiro have fewer untreated caries and less severe dental caries compared to non-pregnant women. Still, half of all women in this study are in need of curative treatment for at least one tooth. Effective preventive programs should therefore be developed to stimulate preventive oral care among all women.
Expression profiling of N6-methyladenosine-modified mRNA in PC12 cells in response to unconjugated bilirubin
Authors: Zhou Jinfu , Liao Sining , Zhang Chenran , Luo Jinying , Li Guilin , Li Huangyuan
Published: June 2023

Background

Abnormal methylation of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is reportedly associated with central nervous system disorders. However, the role of m6A mRNA methylation in unconjugated bilirubin (UCB) neurotoxicity requires further research.

Methods

Rat pheochromocytoma PC12 cells treated with UCB were used as in vitro models. After the PC12 cells were treated with UCB (0, 12, 18, and 24 µM) for 24 h, the total RNA m6A levels were measured using an m6A RNA methylation quantification kit. The expression of m6A demethylases and methyltransferases was detected through western blotting. We determined the m6A mRNA methylation profile in PC12 cells exposed to UCB (0 and 18 µM) for 24 h using methylated RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing (MeRIP-seq).

Results

Compared with the control group, UCB (18 and 24 µM) treatment decreased the expression of the m6A demethylase ALKBH5 and increased the expression of the methyltransferases METTL3 and METTL14, which resulted in an increase in the total m6A levels in PC12 cells. Furthermore, 1533 m6A peaks were significantly elevated and 1331 peaks were reduced in the UCB (18 µM)-treated groups compared with those in the control group. Genes with differential m6A peaks were mainly enriched in protein processing in the endoplasmic reticulum, ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis, cell cycle, and endocytosis. Through combined analysis of the MeRIP-seq and RNA sequencing data, 129 genes with differentially methylated m6A peaks and differentially expressed mRNA levels were identified.

Conclusion

Our study suggests that the modulation of m6A methylation modifications plays a significant role in UCB neurotoxicity.
Terahertz photonic crystal fiber for sensing the creatinine level in the blood
Authors: Ibrahim Mahmoud Salman S. , Esmail Mohamed Saleh M. , Tarek Mohamed , Soliman A. A. , Hameed Mohamed Farhat O. , Obayya S. S. A.
Published: June 2023

In this work, THz photonic crystal fiber (PCF) is used to detect the creatinine level in the blood with high sensitivity. The sensing technique depends on increasing the light interaction with the analyte infiltrated into the air holes in the fiber core region. In this regard, most of the light power should be confined through the analyte region. This will increase the relative sensitivity coefficient that is proportional to the analyte power fraction. The operation of the suggested sensor is based on studying the light–analyte interaction at different creatinine concentrations by detecting the change of the analyte power fraction against the change of the creatinine level in the blood at the THz range 0.5–1.5 THz. The effective mode index (neff), effective material loss (EML), effective modal area (Aeff), and relative sensor sensitivity are calculated using the full vectorial finite element method. Additionally, the different geometrical parameters are studied to maximize the sensor’s sensitivity. The proposed THz-PCF has a 93% and 95% relative sensitivity for x- and y-polarized modes, respectively. Therefore, the suggested THz-PCF biosensor gives a promising usage in measuring the creatinine level in the blood.
Optical mid-infrared modulator based on D-shaped photonic crystal fiber and GST phase changing material
Authors: Younis B. M. , Dawood Nada Yazeed M. , Mahmoud Saleh , El-Sayed Bilal , Usama El-Sayed , Almoqadem Mohamed H. , Hameed Mohamed Farhat O. , Obayya S. S. A.
Published: June 2023

Photonic crystal fibers (PCFs) have recently attracted compelling attention because of their numerous applications, particularly in the mid-infrared (mid-IR) wavelength region. In this paper, we have presented and analyzed mid-IR optical modulator based on phase-changing material (PCM) known as germanium-antimony-tellurium (GST) and D-shaped PCF. The modulation process can be performed as the GST material’s phase undergoes a transition between amorphous (on) and crystalline (off) states. To analyze the proposed design numerically, full vectorial finite element method (FVFEM) is employed. Further, we studied the light propagation through the suggested structure using 3D finite difference time domain (FDTD) method. The optical losses of the fundamental transverse electric (TE) mode supported by the reported structure in the two GST states are studied. The obtained extinction ratio (ER) of the proposed modulator approaches 302.61 dB, whereas the insertion loss (IL) is less than 0.00014 dB throughout the wavelength range from 3 to 5.8 μm at a device length (LD) of 0.2 mm. Therefore, the suggested modulator can be utilized in photonic integrated circuits that require high ER, very low IL, and large optical bandwidth.
Backward pumped distributed Raman amplifier: enhanced gain
Authors: Mustafa Fathy M. , Kholidy Hisham A. , Sayed Ahmed F. , Aly Moustafa H. , Elmisery F. A.
Published: June 2023

The backward Raman amplifier (RA) can considered as one of the best solutions for optical communication, especially in Wavelength Division Multiplexing technology. They reduce the nonlinear effects, have low noise figure and a wide frequency range. The work in this paper aims to reduce the attenuation of optical signal due to its propagation optical fiber and increase both amplifier gain and output signal power. Two backward Raman models are proposed. Proposal one model consists of two cascaded RAs and the other (proposal two) consists of three cascaded RAs. Three backward pump power levels 200, 400, and 600 mW are used to simulate the models with the three types of fibers: single-mode fiber, Truewave, and Freelight, at an amplifier length of 100 km. Proposal two achieves a maximum gain of 31 dB at 600 mW pump power 600 mW using Truewave optical fiber, with 27.7 dBm maximum output signal power. This proposal is evaluated showing 11.15% gain enhancement and 200 mW saved power when compared to previously published work.
Enacting teacher evaluation in Norwegian compulsory education: teachers’ perceptions of possibilities and constraints
Authors: Gloppen Silje Kristin
Published: June 2023

This article reports from a case study investigating enactment of teacher evaluation (TE) policies in two lower secondary schools in a large Norwegian municipality. The aim of the study was to explore teachers’ perceptions of TE, and to unpack how new policy initiatives were shaped by translations, mediations, and negotiations in a national context characterised by relatively low-stakes accountability. The analysis was informed by municipal and local school documents, in situ observations, and semi-structured in-depth interviews with seven teachers, focusing on the interplay between material, interpretative, and discursive elements. Findings indicate that TE practices reflect traditional approaches to teachers’ professional development based on classroom observations (COs) and peer counselling, marked by symmetrical relationships, reflexive collaboration, and collective knowledge-sharing. However, a non-hierarchical collective-oriented culture seems to be disrupted by result management and standards that define ‘the good teacher’ or ‘the good lesson’ combined with individual COs. Teachers raise concerns that market discourses which treat pupils as ‘customers’ and teachers as ‘providers of results’ may encourage strategic behaviours to comply with expectations and preserve one’s good reputation. Implications for policy and practice are discussed with regard to how TE as a discursive strategy contributes to the ‘making’ of particular teacher subjectivities.
The Gendered Consequences of COVID-19 for Internal Migration
Authors: Mueller Valerie , Páez-Bernal Camila , Gray Clark , Grépin Karen
Published: June 2023

Scant evidence exists to identify the effects of the pandemic on migrant women and the unique barriers on employment they endure. We merge longitudinal data from mobile phone surveys with subnational data on COVID cases to examine whether women were left more immobile and vulnerable to health risks, relative to men, during the pandemic in Kenya and Nigeria. Each survey interviewed approximately 2000 men and women over three rounds (November 2020–January 2021, March–April 2021, November 2021–January 2022). Linear regression analysis reveals internal migrants are no more vulnerable to knowing someone in their network with COVID. Rather, rural migrant women in Kenya and Nigeria were less vulnerable to transmission through their network, perhaps related to the possible wealth accumulation from migration or acquired knowledge of averting health risks from previous destinations. Per capita exposure to COVID cases hinders the inter-regional migration of women in both countries. Exposure to an additional COVID case per 10,000 people resulted in a decline in women’s interregional migration by 6 and 2 percentage points in Kenya and Nigeria, respectively.
Comparative analysis of the USA’s Washington Ferries and road transport carbon emissions using the Trozzi and Vaccaro and Greatest Integer functions
Authors: Mersin Kadir , Yıldırım Metin , Alola Andrew Adewale
Published: June 2023

Countries’ sectors are currently under great scrutiny for their response to the greenhouse gas (GHG) emission profile and the general effect of the sectoral activities on the environment. As in the agenda of all sectors, environmental concerns and investigations are of high importance in shipping and maritime transport. Amidst the rising forms of globalization, the need for sustainable transportation is constantly increasing. However, the machines that are the cornerstone of transportation largely depend on fossil fuels, thus resulting in environmental degradation. Notably, environmental-related degradation has continued to account for global warming, climate change, and ocean acidification. Shipping is considered the most environmentally friendly mode of transportation in terms of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions per ton per mile of transported unit load when compared against road transportation. In this study, six ferry lines (FLs) of Washington State Ferries were calculated to compare ship-generated carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions with those from road transportation as if the carried vehicles had used the highway instead of transport by FL. While making these calculations, the Greatest Integer function (GIF) and Trozzi and Vaccaro function (TVF) were utilized. From the examined three scenarios, i.e., all passengers travel by car instead of ferry as scenario 1, all ferries carry both cars and passengers as scenario 2, and all car-free passengers travel by bus instead of ferry as scenario 3, the outlined results are as follows: (i) none of the cars were carried by the ferry, and car-free passengers preferred traveling by their own cars as observed in scenario 1; (ii) hypothetical scenarios (1 to 3) in which the road vehicles carried on FLs had instead used the highway, and the total potential CO2emissions of these road vehicles were calculated as 2,638,858.138, 704,958.2998, and 1,394,148.577 tonnes per year, respectively. Policy-wise, this study revealed the management strategies for CO2emissions reduction for two transport modes, shipping and road transportation, under current conditions.