bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing Chlamydomonas reinhardtii growth and metabolite biosynthesis using organic dyes as spectral converters
Authors: Ramanna Luveshan , Nasr Mahmoud , Rawat Ismail , Bux Faizal
Published: April 2024

The availability of light and its efficient utilisation is a major limiting factor in large scale algal cultures. While algae predominantly use the blue and red spectral regions, a significant amount of incoming light energy remains untapped outside these ranges. Converting this unused light into usable wavelengths could enhance photosynthesis. This study aimed to identify the optimal spectral converter among Lumogen Red (LR), Rhodamine 8G (R8G), and Lumogen Yellow (LY), providing efficient light utilisation for algal cultivation.Chlamydomonas reinhardtiiwas cultivated in double-jacketed cylindrical photo-bioreactors (PBRs) using 30% UV-aand 5% UV-bfluorescent tubes. The R8G dye displayed a slight wavelength shift with a sharp peak at about 498 nm. The LY dye demonstrated several sharp peaks at the green and blue light spectra evident of photo-degradation. The LR dye maintained better photo-stability compared to R8G and LY. Carbohydrate, lipid and protein were produced early, whereas biomass increased after day 4, as a result of photo-acclimation. The LR dye converted and emitted 3.17 × 10-19J photon-1, enhancing biomass production and increasing photochemical energy utilisation [Y(II)] while decreasing regulated energy dissipation [Y(NPQ)]. Pigment biosynthesis was initially increased and then reduced to counteract heightened irradiation as a means of photo-protection. LR had a 1.6- and 2.9-fold up-regulation of the RuBisCo gene expression. The dye-based system correlated with improved growth, lipid, protein, carbohydrate, and pigment production. The dye-based wavelength conversion system was interlinked to the sustainable development goals addressing environmental, economic, and social aspects.
Anthropomorphising Machines and Computerising Minds: The Crosswiring of Languages between Artificial Intelligence and Brain & Cognitive Sciences
Authors: Floridi Luciano , Nobre Anna C
Published: April 2024

The article discusses the process of “conceptual borrowing”, according to which, when a new discipline emerges, it develops its technical vocabulary also by appropriating terms from other neighbouring disciplines. The phenomenon is likened to Carl Schmitt’s observation that modern political concepts have theological roots. The authors argue that, through extensive conceptual borrowing, AI has ended up describing computers anthropomorphically, as computational brains with psychological properties, while brain and cognitive sciences have ended up describing brains and minds computationally and informationally, as biological computers. The crosswiring between the technical languages of these disciplines is not merely metaphorical but can lead to confusion, and damaging assumptions and consequences. The article ends on an optimistic note about the self-adjusting nature of technical meanings in language and the ability to leave misleading conceptual baggage behind when confronted with advancement in understanding and factual knowledge.
Tire–road contact modelling for multibody simulations with regularised road and enhanced UA tire models
Authors: Millan P. , Ambrósio J.
Published: April 2024

Multibody simulations play an important role in the study of the dynamic behaviour of road vehicles, being one of the key aspects the modelling of the tire-road interaction. The tire-road contact modelling is required to detect the contact between the tire and road and to obtain the tire contact forces from the tire-road relative motion. The first part of the problem is solved by a contact detection algorithm, whereas the second part is handled by a tire model. In both cases, the trade-off between accuracy and computational cost needs to be addressed in the road dynamics scenario. For the contact detection problem, this work proposes a methodology in which the road is described by a mesh of triangles while the tire is described by a toroid. The triangular mesh road input can be directly extracted from any CAD model. To avoid the geometric discontinuities due to the transition between triangular patches, a set of auxiliary points is used to obtain a continuous variation of the road surface normal, based on the method proposed by Rill (Multibody Syst. Dyn. 45:131–153, 2019. In the process of contact detection, all kinematic quantities required by the tire-road contact model are evaluated. The tire–road forces are evaluated using the enhanced UA tire model, which is a numerically stable and efficient development of the original tire model proposed by Gim and Nikravesh (Int. J. Veh. Des. 12, 1991; Int. J. Veh. Des. 12:19–39, 1991; Int. J. Veh. Des. 12:217–228, 1991). Both the contact and tire models have smooth transitions between their internal transitions, thereby reducing the need for the variable-step ODE integrators to unnecessarily decrease time steps. The advances on contact detection and the tire–road contact models, proposed here, are demonstrated with a set of road vehicle simulation scenarios in which the influence of various modelling parameters on the stability and efficiency of the simulations is addressed. The novelties of the work consist not only in the demonstration of the enhanced UA tire model in practical situations but also in the description of the new tire–road contact methodology that employs a simple description of the road geometry, to achieve smooth tire–road contact forces.
Numerical integrator for highly oscillatory differential equations based on the Neumann series
Authors: Perczyński Rafał , Madejski Grzegorz
Published: April 2024

We propose a third-order numerical integrator based on the Neumann series and the Filon quadrature, designed mainly for highly oscillatory partial differential equations. The method can be applied to equations that exhibit small or moderate oscillations; however, counter-intuitively, large oscillations increase the accuracy of the scheme. With the proposed approach, the convergence order of the method can be easily improved. Error analysis of the method is also performed. We consider linear evolution equations involving first- and second-time derivatives that feature elliptic differential operators, such as the heat equation or the wave equation. Numerical experiments consider the case in which the space dimension is greater than one and confirm the theoretical study.
Global state of the art of teaching life cycle assessment in higher education
Authors: Viere Tobias , Lehmann Joshua , Miao Zoe Chunyu , Harding Kevin , Strothmann Philip , Weyand Steffi , Wright Laurie , Chitaka Takunda Y. , Sonnemann Guido
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Globally, there is an increased demand for education on life cycle assessment (LCA). In response, there has been an increase in course availability, but also a lack of clarity on the comprehensiveness of these offerings and the resulting student competencies.

Methods

A global survey was conducted to obtain empirical evidence on teaching LCA. The survey explored the availability of LCA courses globally and the depth of the teaching, including expected core competencies and related teaching and learning workloads. A purposive sampling strategy was adopted wherein eligible participants were approached by the researchers.

Results and discussion

According to the survey, annually, over 10,000 students participate in more than 200 LCA courses. The results reflected the interdisciplinary nature of LCA with courses being taught across different disciplines, including engineering, chemical sciences, and economics. Estimated workload demands for achieving different competency levels were significantly lower than those estimated by an expert panel before. This may be attributed in part to respondents not accounting for the full workload beyond classroom interactions. Nonetheless, workload demands increased with competency levels.

Conclusions and recommendations

The results emphasize the need for a common understanding of LCA teaching with regard to content, literacy levels, and competencies to avoid false expectations of the labor and research markets in terms of available expertise. Therefore, LCA curriculum development and program planning remain significant challenges and essential tasks for the global LCA community.
The role of interventional radiology and molecular imaging for near infrared photoimmunotherapy
Authors: Kobayashi Hisataka , Choyke Peter L.
Published: April 2024

Near infrared photoimmunotherapy (NIR-PIT) is a recently approved cancer therapy for recurrent head and neck cancer. It involves the intravenous administration of an antibody-photoabsorber (IRDye700DX: IR700) conjugate (APC) to target cancer cells, followed 24 h later by exposure to near infrared light to activate cell-specific cytotoxicity. NIR-PIT selectively targets cancer cells for destruction and activates a strong anticancer host immunity. The fluorescent signal emitted by IR700 enables the visualization of the APC in vivo using fluorescence imaging. Similarly, the activation of IR700 during therapy can be monitored by loss of fluorescence. NIR-PIT can be used with a variety of antibodies and therefore, a variety of cancer types. However, in most cases, NIR-PIT requires direct light exposure only achieved with interstitial diffuser light fibers that are placed with image-guided interventional needle insertion. In addition, the unique nature of NIR-PIT cell death, means that metabolic molecular imaging techniques such as PET and diffusion MRI can be used to assess therapeutic outcomes. This mini-review focuses on the potential implications of NIR-PIT for interventional radiology and therapeutic monitoring.
Apnea Testing on Conventional Mechanical Ventilation During Brain Death Evaluation
Authors: Merchant Rameez Ali , Ahmad Shahid Nafees , Haddix Bradley , Williamson Craig Andrew , Jacobs Teresa Lee , Singh Tarun Deep , Nguyen Andrew M. , Rajajee Venkatakrishna
Published: April 2024

Introduction

The use of continuous positive airway pressure has been shown to improve the tolerance of the apnea test, a critical component of brain death evaluation. The ability to deactivate the apnea backup setting has made apnea testing possible using several conventional mechanical ventilators. Our goal was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of apnea testing performed on mechanical ventilation, compared with the oxygen insufflation technique, for the determination of brain death.

Methods

This was a retrospective study. In 2016, our institution approved a change in policy to permit apnea testing on conventional mechanical ventilation. We examined the records of consecutive adults who underwent apnea testing as part of the brain death evaluation process between 2016 and 2022. Using an apnea test technique was decided at the discretion of the attending physician. Outcomes were successful apnea test and the occurrence of patient instability during the test. This included oxygen desaturation (SpO2) < 90%, hypotension (mean arterial pressure < 65 mm Hg despite titration of vasopressor), cardiac arrhythmia, pneumothorax, and cardiac arrest.

Results

Ninety-two adult patients underwent apnea testing during the study period: 58 (63%) with mechanical ventilation, 32 (35%) with oxygen insufflation, and 2 (2%) lacked documentation of technique. Apnea tests could not be completed successfully in 3 of 92 (3%) patients—two patients undergoing the oxygen insufflation technique (one patient with hypoxemia and one patient with hypotension) and one patient on mechanical ventilation (aborted for hemodynamic instability). Hypoxemia occurred in 4 of 32 (12.5%) patients with oxygen insufflation and in zero patients on mechanical ventilation (p = 0.01). Hypotension occurred during 3 of 58 (5%) tests with mechanical ventilation and 4 of 32 (12.5%) tests with oxygen insufflation (p = 0.24). In multivariate analysis, the use of oxygen insufflation was an independent predictor of patient instability during the apnea test (odds ratio 37.74, 95% confidence interval 2.74–520.14).

Conclusions

Apnea testing on conventional mechanical ventilation is feasible and offers several potential advantages over other techniques.
Case report: Mutation evolution in a patient with TdT positive high grade B cell lymphoma with MYC and BCL2 rearrangements following the treatment of concurrent follicular lymphoma and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma
Authors: Zhang Fen , Chen Yu , Cui Qian , Ge Yan , Liu Yanhui
Published: April 2024

Background

Concurrent follicular lymphoma (FL) and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL)was reported in some studies, while the diagnosis of TdT (terminal deoxynucleotydil transferase) positive high grade B cell lymphoma (HGBL) with MYC and BCL2 rearrangements (“double hit”) transformed from FL/DLBCL has been rarely reported. Herein, we described the clinical features and mutation profiles of a case diagnosed with TdT positive “double hit” HGBL following the treatment of FL/DLBCL.

Case presentation

This is a 43-year-old Chinese man who was diagnosed with low grade FL (account for 80%) combined with DLBCL (20%) at a stage of IVB. The patient presented with BCL2/IGH translocation without MYC rearrangement, as well as the expressions of CD20, CD19, CD10 and BCL2 at the initial diagnosis of FL/DLBCL. MYC rearrangement and TdT expression occurred after the treatment. The targeted sequencing revealed mutations in KMT2D, FOXO1, CREBBP, ATM, STAT6, BCL7A, DDX3X, MUC4, FGFR3, ARID5B, DDX11 and PRKCSH genes were the co-mutations shared by the FL/DLBCL and TdT positive “double hit” HGBL, while CCND3, BIRC6, ROBO1 and CHEK2 mutations specifically occurred after the treatment. The overall survival time was 37.8 and 17.8 months after the initial diagnosis of FL/DLBCL and TdT positive “double hit” HGBL, respectively.

Conclusion

This study reports a rare case of TdT positive “double hit” HGBL following the treatment of concurrent FL/DLBCL and highlights the mutation characteristics. Collectively, this study will help enrich the knowledge of TdT positive “double hit” HGBL transformed from FL/DLBCL.
Fractional nonlinear heat equations and characterizations of some function spaces in terms of fractional Gauss–Weierstrass semi–groups
Authors: Baaske Franka , Schmeißer Hans-Jürgen , Triebel Hans
Published: April 2024

We present a new proof of the caloric smoothing related to the fractional Gauss–Weierstrass semi–group in Triebel-Lizorkin spaces. This property will be used to prove existence and uniqueness of mild and strong solutions of the Cauchy problem for a fractional nonlinear heat equation.
Mixed Hodge structures on character varieties of nilpotent groups
Authors: Florentino Carlos , Lawton Sean , Silva Jaime
Published: April 2024

Let

$$\textsf{Hom}^{0}(\Gamma ,G)$$

Hom
0

(
Γ
,
G
)

be the connected component of the identity of the variety of representations of a finitely generated nilpotent group

$$\Gamma $$

Γ

into a connected reductive complex affine algebraic group G. We determine the mixed Hodge structure on the representation variety

$$\textsf{Hom}^{0}(\Gamma ,G)$$

Hom
0

(
Γ
,
G
)

and on the character variety

$$\textsf{Hom}^{0}(\Gamma ,G)/\!\!/G$$

Hom
0

(
Γ
,
G
)

/

/
G

. We obtain explicit formulae (both closed and recursive) for the mixed Hodge polynomial of these representation and character varieties.
Optimal operation of the dam reservoir in real time based on generalized structure of group method of data handling and optimization technique
Authors: Mansouri Sedighe , Fathian Hossein , Nikbakht Shahbazi Alireza , Asadi Lour Mehdi , Asareh Ali
Published: April 2024

The historical data on water intake into the reservoir is collected and used within the framework of a deterministic optimization method to determine the best operating parameters for the dam. The principles that have been used to extract the best values of the flow release from the dam may no longer be accurate in the coming years when the inflow to dams will be changing, and the results will differ greatly from what was predicted. This represents this method’s main drawback. The objective of this study is to provide a framework that can be used to guarantee that the dam is running as efficiently as possible in real time. Because of the way this structure is created, if the dam’s inflows change in the future, the optimization process does not need to be repeated. In this case, deep learning techniques may be used to restore the ideal values of the dam’s outflow in the shortest amount of time. This is achieved by accounting for the environment’s changing conditions. The water evaluation and planning system simulator model and the MOPSO multi-objective algorithm are combined in this study to derive the reservoir’s optimal flow release parameters. The most effective flow discharge will be made feasible as a result. The generalized structure of the group method of data handling (GSGMDH), which is predicated on the results of the MOPSO algorithm, is then used to build a new model. This model determines the downstream needs and ideal release values from the reservoir in real time by accounting for specific reservoir water budget factors, such as inflows and storage changes in the reservoir. Next, a comparison is drawn between this model’s performance and other machine learning techniques, such as ORELM and SAELM, among others. The results indicate that, when compared to the ORELM and SAELM models, the GSGMDH model performs best in the test stage when the RMSE, NRMSE, NASH, and R evaluation indices are taken into account. These indices have values of 1.08, 0.088, 0.969, and 0.972, in that order. It is therefore offered as the best model for figuring out the largest dam rule curve pattern in real time. The structure developed in this study can quickly provide the best operating rules in accordance with the new inflows to the dam by using the GSGMDH model. This is done in a way that makes it possible to manage the system optimally in real time.
Analysis of the impacts of climate change, physiographic factors and land use/cover on the spatiotemporal variability of seasonal daily mean flows in southern Quebec (Canada)
Authors: Assani Ali A.
Published: April 2024

The objective of this study is to compare the spatiotemporal variability of seasonal daily mean flows measured in 17 watersheds, grouped into three homogeneous hydroclimatic regions, during the period 1930–2023 in southern Quebec. With regard to spatial variability, unlike extreme daily flows, seasonal daily mean flows are very poorly correlated with physiographic factors and land use and land cover. In fall, they are not correlated with any physiographic or climatic factor. In winter, they are positively correlated with the rainfall and winter daily mean maximum temperatures. In spring, they are strongly correlated positively with the snowfall but negatively with the spring daily mean maximum temperatures. However, in summer, they are better correlated with forest area and, to a lesser extent, with the rainfall. As for their temporal variability, the application of six different statistical tests revealed a general increase in daily mean flows in winter due to early snowmelt and increased rainfall in fall. In summer, flows decreased significantly in the snowiest hydroclimatic region on the south shore due to the decrease in the snowfall. In spring, no significant change in flows was globally observed in the three hydroclimatic regions despite the decrease in the snowfall due to the increase in the rainfall. In fall, flows increased significantly south of 47°N on both shores due to the increase in the rainfall. This study demonstrates that, unlike extreme flows, the temporal variability of seasonal daily average flows is exclusively influenced by climatic variables in southern Quebec. Due to this influence, seasonal daily mean flows thus appear to be the best indicator for monitoring the impacts of changes in precipitation regimes and seasonal temperatures on river flows in southern Quebec.
Constraint reconciliation optimization to minimize primary and reactionary delay in a research network strategic tool
Authors: Berling Jan , Lau Alexander , Gollnick Volker
Published: April 2024

When regulated network capacities are violated, flights may be delayed to meet time-based slot restrictions. In addition, reactionary delays occur when time buffers to subsequent flight legs are exceeded. This work aims to minimize both—primary and reactionary delays in a dynamic simulation of the European Air Transportation System. The slot allocation process is solved by minimizing network delay with a binary optimization approach instead of using the current first-planned–first-served principle. The new module presented in this study, called constraint reconciliation and optimization (CRO), is applied within EUROCONTROL’s Research Network Strategic Tool (R-NEST). The results are compared to delays generated by R-NEST’s computer-aided slot allocation (ISA–CASA). In simulations of tactical air traffic flow management (ATFM) operations, time is iterated over the day and flight plans are updated with random and propagated delays. The computational complexity of all possible delay- and slot-entry-permutations is reduced by the method of column generation for solving large linear problems. Three validation scenarios that contain flight plans, rotation margins, sector configurations, regulations, and deterministic or stochastic delays are evaluated. In the most realistic scenario, compared to ISA–CASA, CRO reduces primary and reactionary delays by up to 16% while achieving low levels of airspace sector and airport overloads and fast computation times.
Human mesenchymal stromal cells-laden crosslinked hyaluronic acid-alginate bioink for 3D bioprinting applications in tissue engineering
Authors: Galocha-León Cristina , Antich Cristina , Voltes-Martínez Ana , Marchal Juan A. , Mallandrich Mireia , Halbaut Lyda , Souto Eliana B. , Gálvez-Martín Patricia , Clares-Naveros Beatriz
Published: April 2024

Three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting is considered one of the most advanced tools to build up materials for tissue engineering. The aim of this work was the design, development and characterization of a bioink composed of human mesenchymal stromal cells (hMSC) for extrusion through nozzles to create these 3D structures that might potentially be apply to replace the function of damaged natural tissue. In this study, we focused on the advantages and the wide potential of biocompatible biomaterials, such as hyaluronic acid and alginate for the inclusion of hMSC. The bioink was characterized for its physical (pH, osmolality, degradation, swelling, porosity, surface electrical properties, conductivity, and surface structure), mechanical (rheology and printability) and biological (viability and proliferation) properties. The developed bioink showed high porosity and high swelling capacity, while the degradation rate was dependent on the temperature. The bioink also showed negative electrical surface and appropriate rheological properties required for bioprinting. Moreover, stress-stability studies did not show any sign of physical instability. The developed bioink provided an excellent environment for the promotion of the viability and growth of hMSC cells. Our work reports the first-time study of the effect of storage temperature on the cell viability of bioinks, besides showing that our bioink promoted a high cell viability after being extruded by the bioprinter. These results support the suggestion that the developed hMSC-composed bioink fulfills all the requirements for tissue engineering and can be proposed as a biological tool with potential applications in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering.

Graphical abstract
Improving the dynamic behaviour of historic buildings using experimental data: application to a Baroque church
Authors: Ceravolo Rosario , Lenticchia Erica , Miraglia Gaetano , Scussolini Linda
Published: April 2024

Vibration-based Structural Health Monitoring represents an efficient and reliable tool to build models that can predict the dynamic behaviour of heritage structures for, but not limited to, monitoring purposes. Indeed, built heritage consists of unique structures often characterized by high fragility, and the design of interventions implies several challenges, also related to restrictions on the application of modern regulations. In this context, the corroboration of the mechanical model should accompany the entire process, from design to implementation, with test campaigns performed before and after the strengthening operations to assess their effectiveness. Thus, the work presents the experimental process used for the tailoring of the seismic upgrading interventions on the church of Santa Caterina, in Casale Monferrato. More recently, the model has been updated with the results acquired from a permanent monitoring system installed in 2022, following the interventions, hence allowing assessments of their effectiveness.
On strong algebrability of families of non-measurable functions of two variables
Authors: Głąb Szymon , Lichman Mateusz , Pawlikowski Michał
Published: April 2024

Recently Tomasz Natkaniec in (Natkaniec in Rev R Acad Cenc Exactas Fís Nat Ser A Mat RACSAM, 115(1):10, 2021) studied the lineability problem for several classes of non-measurable functions in two variables. In this note we improve his results in the direction of algebrability. In particular, we show that most of the classes considered by Natkaniec contain free algebras with $$2^\mathfrak c$$

2
c

many generators.
Torsion primes for elliptic curves over degree 8 number fields
Authors: Khawaja Maleeha
Published: April 2024

Let $$d\ge 1$$

d
≥
1

be an integer and let p be a rational prime. Recall that p is a torsion prime of degree d if there exists an elliptic curve E over a degree d number field K such that E has a K-rational point of order p. Derickx et al. (Algebra Number Theory 17(2):267–308, 2023) have computed the torsion primes of degrees 4, 5, 6 and 7. We verify that the techniques used in Derickx et al. (Algebra Number Theory 17(2):267–308, 2023) can be extended to determine the torsion primes of degree 8.
Environmental impacts of materials in masonry residential house
Authors: Estokova Adriana , Fabianova Martina
Published: April 2024

This study aims to quantify the environmental impact of a specific family home, with a particular focus on its contribution to climate change. To achieve a more precise assessment, the family home was dissected into various components based on the materials’ function and their location within the structure. The evaluation was conducted using the life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology, considering the “cradle to site” boundaries and utilizing the IPCC GWP100 method. The cumulative contribution of the materials used in the selected house to climate change was found to be 125,000 kg CO2 equivalent (CO2eq). When analyzing the global warming potentials (GWP100) of individual building structures, the calculated values ranged from 3.8 to 62.2 kg CO2eq. The results indicate that the materials for horizontal structures had the lowest global warming potential values, while materials for vertical structures had the highest values. Particular attention was paid to comparing three different ways of transporting materials to the site. The portion of climate change attributable to transportation fell within a range of 10.9–12.3%. Findings verified that road transportation consistently made the greatest contribution to the overall GWP100, regardless of distance, with rail transportation yielding the lowest values. Discrepancies between the highest and lowest values of transport-related GWP100 were determined to be as much as 9.1%. Opting for the most environmentally friendly option, namely rail in this study, could result in savings of 4.9 kg CO2eq per 1 km of transportation distance for the analyzed building materials used per family house.
Evaluating tracemaker recovery after the Cretaceous–Paleogene (K–Pg) boundary event: different biotic responses at the Caravaca section
Authors: Rodríguez-Tovar F. J.
Published: April 2024

Trace fossils are an aid to characterize major extinction events, enriching evolutionary paleoecology research. Ichnological analysis at the Cretaceous–Paleogene (K–Pg) marine boundary interval, worldwide, points to a relatively minor disruption in the macrobenthic tracemaker community; that is, trace-fossil assemblages do not change significantly across the K–Pg boundary, showing relatively rapid recovery, locally in just a few years post-impact. To evaluate the incidence of this event and the rapid recovery of the tracemaker community afterwards, the evolution of planktic and benthic groups at the K–Pg boundary interval was analysed in the Caravaca section (Betic Cordillera) based on the integration of available data. In general terms, planktic foraminifera and calcareous nannoplankton dropped in abundance and diversity at the K–Pg boundary, whereas benthic foraminifera did not show significant extinction, but rather a sudden and dramatic decrease in diversity and reorganization. After the K–Pg boundary event, planktic communities exhibit a prolonged delay in recovery—mainly occurring above the dark boundary layer—with respect to benthic foraminifera. The K–Pg boundary event did not induce a severe crisis for the burrowing macroinfauna, as revealed by the similarity between pre- and post-event ichnotaxa, showing a comparatively rapid first colonization phase, less than 2 ky after the event. The record of Zoophycos and Chondrites at the base of the dark boundary layer evidences an opportunistic behaviour of tracemakers and a high independence from oxygen in pore waters and food in the sediment, allowing for the colonization of an overall unfavorable environment.
A Job Demands–Resources Perspective on Emotional Exhaustion and Work Engagement in Human–Animal Work
Authors: Dlouhy Katja , Schmitt Antje , Kandel India J.
Published: April 2024

Prior research has highlighted various psychological benefits and detriments associated with human–animal work, i.e., work that is substantially focused on living animals. However, systematic research that identifies both demands and resources across various occupations in this domain of work has been limited. To address this issue, we build on job demands–resources theory to identify job demands and resources that are characteristic of human–animal work and link them to health and motivational outcomes. Our study of 205 individuals who engage in human–animal work across different occupations shows that in terms of job demands, animal distress positively relates to workers’ emotional exhaustion, but the occupational stigma of human–animal work does not. Regarding job resources, we find that pro-animal impact and human–animal bond both positively relate to work engagement, explaining additional variance in work engagement beyond more general job resources. However, when animal distress is high, human–animal bond does no longer predict work engagement. We discuss implications of our study for job demands–resources theory, research on occupational stigma, and the field of human–animal work.
U.S. strategy of damage limitation vis-à-vis China: long-term programs and effects
Authors: Li Bin , Wu Riqiang
Published: April 2024

A number of U.S. military programs, if successfully developed and deployed, could undermine China's nuclear retaliatory capabilities, thereby enhancing U.S. damage limitation capabilities vis-à-vis China. Meanwhile, China seeks to maintain the credibility of its nuclear retaliatory capabilities and increase the survivability and penetration of its nuclear weapons. These interactions are part of the nuclear competition between the United States and China. This article discusses three cases: the U.S. homeland missile defense system, anti-submarine warfare (ASW) preparations, and the space-based Ground Moving Target Indicator. These programs may serve declaratory purposes in one way or another, but their development has had a negative impact on China’s strategic nuclear retaliatory capabilities. Using non-nuclear means that differ technologically from the measures taken by China, these programs have created an asymmetric competition between the two sides. These U.S. programs have endured for several decades, and have continued to introduce new technologies despite occasional interruptions. The main element of development in these programs has been qualitative improvement, while quantitative increases have not always been evident. The development of these U.S. damage limitation capabilities put pressure on China’s nuclear retaliatory capabilities. The arms race theories developed during the Cold War are inadequate for fully understanding nuclear competition between the United States and China. We need new theories and wisdom to explore cooperative solutions.
The cyclic load effect on the elasticity and plasticity deformation of high-strength reinforced concrete elements
Authors: Bayat Hydayatullah , Chalecki Marek , Lesniewska Aleksandra , Maj Marek , Rybak Jaroslaw , Ubysz Andrzej
Published: April 2024

This article investigates the degradation of stiffness in high and standard-strength concrete due to the influence of repeated loading and considers the non-linear behavior arising from localized or natural defects of concrete. The article also refers to the models from existing literature that evaluate the characteristics of concrete by enhancing its physicochemical properties through the application of natural and synthetic fibers. The impact of the service load, which influences the change in concrete stiffness, is illustrated using the elastic–plastic concrete model. The elastic–plastic model of concrete, combined with experimentally determined data such as elastic and residual deformations, simplifies the analysis of concrete beams or surface elements. This model enables static solutions of inelastic materials based on the classical theory of elasticity. The degradation of element stiffness in this model is described by the local increment of the rotation angle. Based on the model we can assume a constant stiffness along the length of the beam before as well as after exceeding the value of the cracking moment. In the case of cyclic loads, it can be assumed that residual deformations have the greatest influence on the displacement values, which in the calculation model are described by the component of the angle of rotation in the crack, describing permanent displacements.
Behavioral models of drivers in developing countries with an agent-based perspective: a literature review
Authors: Gracian Vishal A. , Galland Stéphane , Lombard Alexandre , Martinet Thomas , Gaud Nicolas , Zhao Hui , Yasar Ansar-Ul-Haque
Published: April 2024

The traffic in developing countries presents its own specificity, notably due to the heterogeneous traffic and a weak-lane discipline. This leads to differences in driver behavior between these countries and developed countries. Knowing that the analysis of the drivers from developed countries leads the design of the majority of driver models, it is not surprising that the simulations performed using these models do not match the field data of the developing countries. This article presents a systematic review of the literature on modeling driving behaviors in the context of developing countries. The study focuses on the microsimulation approaches, and specifically on the multiagent paradigm, that are considered suitable for reproducing driving behaviors with accuracy. The major contributions from the recent literature are analyzed. Three major scientific challenges and related minor research directions are described.
Nexus between carbon stock, biomass, and CO2 emission of woody species composition: evidence from Ise-Ekiti Forest Reserve, Southwestern Nigeria
Authors: Dada Adebowale D. , Matthew Olaniran J. , Odiwe Anthony I.
Published: April 2024

The carbon stock, biomass, and CO2 emissions in woody species play crucial roles in understanding and managing ecosystems. Understanding these aspects is crucial for sustainable forest management, conservation, and mitigating the impact of woody species on global carbon dynamics and climate change. This study examined the nexus between carbon stock, biomass, and CO2 emission of woody plant composition in disturbed and undisturbed areas in Southwestern Nigeria. The study involved the random establishment of plots in the disturbed and undisturbed areas and, in each plot, the woody plants were enumerated and identified to the species level. The results showed that total biomass (102.645 Mg ha-1), total carbon stock (51.323 Mg C ha-1), and total CO2 emission (188.354 Mg C ha-1) values of tree species in undisturbed plots were higher than the values of total biomass (70.768 Mg ha-1), total carbon stock (35.384 Mg C ha-1), and total CO2 emission (129.859 Mg C ha-1) recorded in disturbed plots. The results also revealed that total biomass (0.123 Mg ha-1), total carbon stock (0.061 Mg C ha-1), and total CO2 emission (0.225 Mg C ha-1 ) values of shrub species recorded in disturbed plots were higher than values of total biomass (0.067 Mg ha-1), total carbon stock (0.034 Mg C ha-1) and total CO2 content (0.124 Mg C ha-1) recorded in undisturbed plots, respectively. The findings showed that in undisturbed and disturbed plots of shrubs, biomass, carbon and CO2 emissions have a strong positive correlation of 1.000**. While biomass, carbon, and CO2 emission have a very strong positive correlation (0.999**) in undisturbed plots of trees, the biomass, carbon, and CO2 emission have moderate to strong positive correlations (0.458** to 0.974**) in disturbed plots of the tree. The study concluded that while biomass, carbon stock, and CO2 emission values of tree species were higher in undisturbed plots than in disturbed plots, the biomass, carbon stock, and CO2 emission values of shrub species were lower in undisturbed plots than in disturbed plots. It also concluded that the main purpose of establishing reserve forests is not totally achieved as human activities occurring in reserve forests still contribute to the increment of climate change.
Mapping flooded areas utilizing Google Earth Engine and open SAR data: a comprehensive approach for disaster response
Authors: Singh Gaurav , Rawat Kishan Singh
Published: April 2024

One of the most destructive and frequent natural disasters in the world, flash floods cause millions of people to be displaced annually in addition to seriously harming livelihoods and infrastructure. It affects many ecological components and applications related to water management, natural resources, agriculture, human health, and economics. Himachal Pradesh saw an unprecedented amount of rainfall in June and July 2023, which resulted in exceptionally strong monsoon conditions from July 7 to July 10. Operating out of the Meteorological Centre in Shimla, the India Meteorological Department reported widespread, unusually heavy rainfall throughout the state during this time. Cloud cover often obstructs optical satellite data during the monsoon season, which has led to the investigation of alternate techniques for mapping floods. the whole satellite image processing process was carried out using Google Earth Engine (GEE). The Kangra District's 5739 km2 area was chosen as the study's area of interest. In these circumstances, traditional methods of mapping and monitoring flood-prone areas frequently fall short because of poor visibility and overcast skies during bad weather. Technology such as Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) becomes a ray of hope during these desperate times. When SAR data is combined with Google Earth Engine, it becomes even more user-friendly. Using SAR data and the powerful cloud processing platform Google Earth Engine (GEE), this study suggests a flood mapping technique. When it comes to mapping flood areas, the strength of SAR data and GEE surpasses boundaries and challenges. It is evidence of both technological advancement and human inventiveness. Such tools are more critical than ever as the world deals with the increasing effects of climate change and the rising frequency of extreme weather events.
Plague, Towns and Monarchy in Early Modern France
Authors: Murphy Neil
Published: April 2024

This Element examines the emergence of comprehensive plague management systems in early modern France. While the historiography on plague argues that the plague of Provence in the 1720s represented the development of a new and 'modern' form of public health care under the control of the absolutist monarchy, it shows that the key elements in this system were established centuries earlier because of the actions of urban governments. It moves away from taking a medical focus on plague to examine the institutions that managed disease control in early modern France. In doing so, it seeks to provide a wider context of French plague care to better understand the systems used at Provence in the 1720s. It shows that the French developed a polycentric system of plague care which drew on the input of numerous actors combat the disease.
L’épuration professionnelle du monde du spectacle à la Libération
Authors: Le Bail Karine , Randon-Furling Julien
Published: April 2024

Rédigé par une historienne et un spécialiste de modélisation mathématique, cet article explore les enjeux épistémologiques de la collaboration interdisciplinaire à travers une étude de cas : l’épuration professionnelle du monde du spectacle à la Libération. Dans tout processus de justice, la question de l’équité, ou celle, équivalente, d’éventuelles discriminations, est difficile à instruire.
A fortiori
pour une épuration à caractère disciplinaire, où des artistes ont jugé leurs pairs. L’article montre que le formalisme mathématique, loin de se substituer à l’expertise historique, prolonge celle-ci par les moyens d’un autre langage, abstrait, enrichissant ainsi les modes d’accès au réel en faisant converger plusieurs dispositifs d’enquête. Progressant pas à pas dans la modélisation du problème et dans l’analyse des données, les deux chercheurs prennent soin d’expliciter les approches statistiques et mathématiques de plus en plus complexes qu’ils doivent mobiliser pour détecter des formes jurisprudentielles impossibles à capturer avec des outils classiques – jusqu’à l’idée originale de traiter un processus impliquant des décisions humaines comme un processus algorithmique complexe. Grâce au détournement d’une méthode d’inférence causale conçue pour étudier l’équité de certains processus algorithmiques de type « boîte noire », des résultats inédits, restés jusqu’alors totalement « cachés » dans les données, sont révélés et viennent, en retour, guider l’analyse historique.
Vietnamese Americans' level of trust in sources of information and willingness to participate in COVID-19 clinical trials
Authors: Vargas Shielene , Siddiqi Saba , King Ben , Nguyen Celine , Diep Jannette , Gilbert Lauren , Nguyen Bich-May
Published: April 2024

The survey investigates COVID-19 information source trust levels and Vietnamese Americans’ willingness to participate in clinical trials. An analysis of 212 completed surveys revealed that trust in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) clinical trial information from university hospitals and drug companies was associated with willingness to participate in clinical trials. Trust in COVID-19 information from federal governments and state governments was also associated with willingness to participate in clinical trials. However, trust in local health facilities was linked to trial participation reluctance. The results suggest that Vietnamese Americans’ participation in clinical trials can be increased by identifying and using trusted sources of information.
The business of city-building. Long-term change and continuity in the construction sector (Brussels, 1830–1970)
Authors: Degraeve Matthijs
Published: April 2024

The construction sector has long been underrepresented in business historical studies and debates. While an application of the “historical alternatives to mass production” approach has provided a valuable conceptual framework, this paper offers a still-needed quantitative basis to assess actual long-term changes and continuities in the forms of business organization and entrepreneurship in construction. A database of c. 16,700 construction enterprises in Brussels between 1830 and 1970, drawn from trade directories and fiscal registers, uncovers evolutions in sectoral and subsectoral numbers of enterprises, firm sizes, and rates of company formation. Thus, the growing divergence at the core of the construction industry becomes clear. Industrialization and urbanization led to market concentration, firm growth, and incorporation with some capital-intensive enterprises, whereas the variability of the work on the construction site resulted, with many others, in the persistence of labor-intensive processes, and small-scale, flexible, and informal forms of business organization.
Electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) study of elongatoolithid eggs from China with microstructural and parataxonomic implications
Authors: Zhu Xufeng , Wang Qiang , Wang Xiaolin
Published: April 2024

Electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) has been widely used in recent studies of eggshells for its convenience in collecting in situ crystallographic information. China has a wide variety of dinosaur eggshells, although nearly none have been studied with this technique. Elongatoolithid eggs include many oogenera, although the microstructural differences of some were not highly appreciated, leading to several parataxonomic problems. In this paper, we surveyed seven elongatoolithid oogenera in China using EBSD in order to acquire more information about their microstructural variation. It is shown in this paper that in some elongatoolithid eggshells, scaly calcite grains that form the squamatic ultrastructure are not the only form of calcite in the continuous layer. Large columnar grains separated by high-angled grain boundaries and slender subgrains separated by radially arranged low-angled grain boundaries could exist in certain areas of the eggshells such as Macroolithus and Macroelongatoolithus. This paper discusses the criteria for identifying squamatic ultrastructure and proposes type I (rich in rugged high-angled grain boundaries) and type II (rich in both rugged high- and low-angled grain boundaries) squamatic ultrastructures. A pathological layer is found in Undulatoolithus pengi. An external zone is identified in the eggshell of Heishanoolithus changii, which does not support its position within the oofamily Elongatoolithidae. We argue that Paraelongatoolithus no longer belongs to Elongatoolithidae based on a combination of reticulated ornamentation, columnar continuous layer, and acicular mammillae. The high structural variation in elongatoolithid eggshells also implies that it may be inappropriate to relate all previous elongatoolithid eggshells to oviraptorosaurs and assume they are non-monophyletic.