bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Amine Functionalization of Channels of Metal‐Organic Frameworks for Effective Chemical Fixation of Carbon Dioxide: A Comparative Study with Three Newly Designed Porous Networks
Authors: Moi Rajib , Bedi Swati , Biradha Kumar
Published: May 2024

Catalytic transformation of CO2 into value‐added chemical products can provide an appropriate solution for the raising environmental issues. To date, various metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) with transition metal ions have been explored for CO2 capture and conversion, but alkaline earth metal‐based MOFs are comparatively less studied. Metal ions like Sr(II) having relatively large radius give rise to a high coordination number resulting in higher stability of the MOFs. Moreover, the introduction of N‐rich functional group in organic linker like −NH2, −CONH− and triazole into MOF backbone enhance their CO2 capture and conversion efficiency. Herein, the effect of amine group on the catalytic efficiency of MOFs for CO2 cycloaddition with epoxides under solvent free and ambient conditions are presented. The di‐carboxylates, such as 5‐aminoisophthalate (AmIP) and 5‐bromoisophthalate (BrIP) were utilized to synthesize Sr(II) based MOFs. The Zn(II) MOF was synthesized using tetra‐carboxylate containing amide spacer (OAT) and 4‐amino‐4H‐1,2,4‐triazole (AMT). All three MOFs exhibited porous networks with guest available volume ranging from 15 to 58 %. The catalytic efficiency of the MOFs towards carbon dioxide fixation reaction was explored. The catalytic performances revealed that the presence of amine group in the channels enhances the catalytic efficiency of the MOFs.
Modulation of long noncoding RNAs by polyphenols as a novel potential therapeutic approach in lung cancer: A comprehensive review
Authors: Lv Hong , Qian Dawei , Xu Shuhua , Fan Guiqin , Qian Qiuhong , Cha Dongsheng , Qian Xingjia , Zhou Guoping , Lu Bing
Published: May 2024

Lung cancer stands as a formidable global health challenge, necessitating innovative therapeutic strategies. Polyphenols, bioactive compounds synthesized by plants, have garnered attention for their diverse health benefits, particularly in combating various cancers, including lung cancer. The advent of whole‐genome and transcriptome sequencing technologies has illuminated the pivotal roles of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), operating at epigenetic, transcriptional, and posttranscriptional levels, in cancer progression. This review comprehensively explores the impact of polyphenols on both oncogenic and tumor‐suppressive lncRNAs in lung cancer, elucidating on their intricate regulatory mechanisms. The comprehensive examination extends to the potential synergies when combining polyphenols with conventional treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy. Recognizing the heterogeneity of lung cancer subtypes, the review emphasizes the need for the integration of nanotechnology for optimized polyphenol delivery and personalized therapeutic approaches. In conclusion, we collect the latest research, offering a holistic overview of the evolving landscape of polyphenol‐mediated modulation of lncRNAs in lung cancer therapy. The integration of polyphenols and lncRNAs into multidimensional treatment strategies holds promise for enhancing therapeutic efficacy and navigating the challenges associated with lung cancer treatment.
Landscape influences on thermal sensitivity and predicted spatial variability among brook trout streams in the southeastern USA
Authors: Valentine George P. , Lu Xinyi , Dolloff C. Andrew , Roghair Craig N. , Rash Jacob M. , Hooten Mevin B. , Kanno Yoichiro
Published: May 2024

Warming water temperatures as a result of climate change pose a major threat to coldwater organisms. However, the rate of warming is not spatially uniform due to surface‐ground‐water interactions and stream and watershed characteristics. Coldwater habitats that are most resistant to warming serve as thermal refugia and identifying their locations is critical to regional aquatic conservation planning. We quantified the thermal sensitivity of 203 streams providing current and potential habitat for brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) across nearly 1000 linear km of their native range in the southern and central Appalachian Mountains region, USA, and characterized their spatial variability with landscape variables available in the National Hydrography Dataset. Using the Bayesian framework, we calculated the maximum slope of the logistic function relating paired weekly mean air temperature and stream temperature as an index of stream thermal sensitivity. Streams differed greatly in thermal sensitivity and those with more resistant water temperature regimes (i.e., thermal refugia) were consistently characterized by southerly latitudes and groundwater input. Landscape variables derived from a principal component analysis explained 16% of the variation in thermal sensitivity, indicating that the existing landscape variables were modestly successful in explaining spatial thermal heterogeneity. Using our model and spatial interpolation, we predicted thermal sensitivity at 8695 stream segments potentially suitable for brook trout in the study region. Thermal refugia were more common southward presumably due to higher elevations, but elsewhere they were also clustered at finer spatial scales. Our analysis informs prioritizing habitat conservation and restoration of this native salmonid and other aquatic organisms that depend on coldwater habitats in a warming world.
A fast bootstrap algorithm for causal inference with large data
Authors: Kosko Matthew , Wang Lin , Santacatterina Michele
Published: May 2024

Estimating causal effects from large experimental and observational data has become increasingly prevalent in both industry and research. The bootstrap is an intuitive and powerful technique used to construct standard errors and confidence intervals of estimators. Its application however can be prohibitively demanding in settings involving large data. In addition, modern causal inference estimators based on machine learning and optimization techniques exacerbate the computational burden of the bootstrap. The bag of little bootstraps has been proposed in non‐causal settings for large data but has not yet been applied to evaluate the properties of estimators of causal effects. In this article, we introduce a new bootstrap algorithm called causal bag of little bootstraps for causal inference with large data. The new algorithm significantly improves the computational efficiency of the traditional bootstrap while providing consistent estimates and desirable confidence interval coverage. We describe its properties, provide practical considerations, and evaluate the performance of the proposed algorithm in terms of bias, coverage of the true 95% confidence intervals, and computational time in a simulation study. We apply it in the evaluation of the effect of hormone therapy on the average time to coronary heart disease using a large observational data set from the Women's Health Initiative.
Reengineering of an Artificial Protein Cage for Efficient Packaging of Active Enzymes
Authors: Azuma Yusuke , Gaweł Szymon , Pasternak Monika , Woźnicka Olga , Pyza Elżbieta , Heddle Jonathan G.
Published: May 2024

Protein cages that readily encapsulate active enzymes of interest present useful nanotools for delivery and catalysis, wherein those with programmable disassembly characteristics serve as particularly attractive platforms. Here, a general guest packaging system based on an artificial protein cage, TRAP‐cage, the disassembly of which can be induced by the addition of reducing agents, is established. In this system, TRAP‐cage with SpyCatcher moieties in the lumen is prepared using genetic modification of the protein building block and assembled into a cage structure with either monovalent gold ions or molecular crosslinkers. The resulting protein cage can efficiently capture guest proteins equipped with a SpyTag by simply mixing them in an aqueous solution. This post‐assembly loading system, which circumvents the exposure of guests to thiol‐reactive crosslinkers, enables the packaging of enzymes possessing a catalytic cysteine or a metal cofactor while retaining their catalytic activity.
Copper‐Nanoparticle‐Decorated Hydrothermal Carbonaceous Carbon–Polydimethylsiloxane Nanocomposites: Unveiling Potential in Simultaneous Light‐Driven Interfacial Water Evaporation and Power Generation
Authors: Fattahimoghaddam Hossein , Kim In Ho , Dhandapani Keerthnasre , Jeong Yong Jin , An Tae Kyu
Published: May 2024

This study introduces a hydrothermal synthesis method that uses glucose and Cu2+ ions to create a Cu‐nanoparticle (NP)‐decorated hydrothermal carbonaceous carbon hybrid material (Cu–HTCC). Glucose serves both as a reducing agent, efficiently transforming Cu2+ ions into elemental Cu nanostructures, and as a precursor for HTCC microstructures. An enhanced plasmon‐induced electric field resulting from Cu NPs supported on microstructure matrices, coupled with a distinctive localized π‐electronic configuration in the hybrid material, as confirmed by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopic analysis, lead to the heightened optical absorption in the visible–near‐infrared range. Consequently, flexible nanocomposites of Cu–HTCC/PDMS and Cu–HTCC@PDMS (PDMS = polydimethylsiloxane) are designed as 2 and 3D structures, respectively, that exhibit broad‐spectrum solar absorption. These composites promise efficient photo‐assisted thermoelectric power generation and water evaporation, demonstrating commendable mechanical stability and flexibility. Notably, the Cu–HTCC@PDMS composite sponge simultaneously exhibits commendable efficiency in both water evaporation (1.47 kg m−2 h−1) and power generation (32.1 mV) under 1 sunlight illumination. These findings unveil new possibilities for innovative photothermal functional materials in diverse solar‐driven applications.
Flame Spray Pyrolysis Synthesis of Ultra‐Small High‐Entropy Alloy‐Supported Oxide Nanoparticles for CO2 Hydrogenation Catalysts
Authors: Dai Yifan , Ju Jie , Luo Liling , Jiang Hao , Hu Yanjie , Li Chunzhong
Published: May 2024

The synthesis of high‐entropy alloys (HEAs) with ultra‐small particle sizes has long been a challenging task. The complex and time‐consuming synthesis process hinders their practical application and widespread adoption. This study presents the novel synthesis of TiO2 nanoparticles loaded with a quinary high‐entropy alloy through flame spray pyrolysis (FSP) for the first time. The extremely fast heating rate of flame combustion makes the precursor fast pyrolysis gasification, high temperature in the flame field promotes the metal vapor mixing uniformly, and the fast quenching process can reduce the particle aggregation sintering, the ultra‐small particle size of HEA firmly attached to the TiO2 surface. The catalysts prepared via this gas‐to‐particle pathway exhibit excellent performance in CO2 hydrogenation, achieving a conversion rate of 62% at 450 °C, and maintaining their activity for over 220 h without significant particle agglomeration. This finding provides valuable insights for the future design of catalytically active materials with enhanced activity and long‐term stability.
Benthic pterobranchs from the Cambrian (Drumian) Marjum Konservat‐Lagerstätte of Utah
Authors: Lerosey‐Aubril Rudy , Maletz Jörg , Coleman Robert , Del Mouro Lucas , Gaines Robert R. , Skabelund Jacob , Ortega‐Hernández Javier
Published: May 2024

Pterobranchs are rare in Cambrian strata of North America despite discoveries of more than 30 exceptionally preserved fossil biotas. Miaolingian pterobranchs from this continent typically form low‐diversity and low‐abundance assemblages. Here we describe an abundant pterobranch material from the Drumian Marjum Formation recently collected at the Gray Marjum Quarry in the House Range of Utah, USA. The faunule is composed of two new species: Sphenoecium marjumensis, an encrusting representative forming compact bushy colonies of more than 80 tubes with poorly developed rhizomes, and Tarnagraptus cupidus, an erect growing taxon characterized by intertwining stems and a monopodial colonial growth. Known in extant rhabdopleurids, this mode of colonial growth had hitherto never been observed in fossil pterobranchs. Its documentation in a c. 500‐myr‐old taxon attests to its deep origin in the evolutionary history of the group. Although the new species almost exclusively occur in the Marjum strata, this pterobranch faunule is broadly similar to those recovered from other Miaolingian Burgess Shale‐type deposits of North America in terms of genus‐level composition, species richness, and ecological structure. This may indicate that pterobranchs were poorly diverse components of animal communities at that time, or that they mostly thrived in more proximal shelf environments where conditions conducive to their preservation rarely developed. The common co‐occurrence of taxa with fundamentally different ecomorphotypes in the Miaolingian Series of North America strongly suggests an earlier phase of morphological diversification of benthic pterobranchs during the early Cambrian, which remains insufficiently documented by fossils.
Evaluating the International and Intercultural Orientation of an ELT Textbook in Cambodia through the Lens of Global Englishes Language Teaching
Authors: Marlina Roby
Published: May 2024

The plurality of the use, users, and forms of English has prompted Global Englishes scholars to advocate the need for English language curricula to more accurately reflect the current sociolinguistic landscape of English and the intercultural nature of contemporary communicative exchanges. However, the scarcity of teaching materials has been identified as one of the key barriers to achieving meaningful change, leading to observations that the impact of Global Englishes on English language teaching (ELT) textbook design has been minimal. This paper challenges this perception via presentation of preliminary findings of a qualitative research project investigating a Cambodian secondary school ELT textbook. Analyses of textbook features reveal concrete instances of efforts undertaken by the textbook editors to steer the book away from privileging native speakers' lingua‐cultural norms. Findings reveal a non‐deficit portrayal of a diverse range of English speakers, exposure to more than a single variety of the English accent, minimal involvement of inner circle English speakers in the interactions between textbook characters, and a reduced reliance on Anglo‐centric cultural references. The voices of the editors are amplified in this study to further help justify the rationale behind the inclusions as well as exclusions, which are often missing in ELT textbook research.
Exploring Justice Tensions in the Barnahus Model
Authors: Lavoie Jennifer , Mitchell Mary , Warrington Camille , Hill Louise , Yates Peter
Published: May 2024

Barnahus is to support children and their families during the justice and recovery process from experiencing abuse or violence. Yet, many perspectives of justice exist in the multi-disciplinary systems involved in Barnahus. The intersection of these systems can cause tension, which affects service delivery and, ultimately, the experience of the justice and recovery journey. The purpose of this chapter is to outline the needs, rights, and responsibilities of those involved in Barnahus as key stakeholders, including children, their families, criminal justice professionals, social and health care professionals, and professionals working in non-governmental organisations (NGOs) that support children and families. We also discuss the justice-related tensions that arise in the Barnahus model and how Barnahus can situate and advance a child-friendly justice model.
“… And Those Who Expect to Return to the Source Will Find Fog”: Resonances of Prehistory in Modern Art
Authors: Labrusse Rémi
Published: May 2024

Since the authentication of Paleolithic cave paintings at the beginning of the twentieth century, modern artists have approached deep-time remnants (including images, tools, and traces of all sorts) in three main ways: they have either represented them, imitated them, or made them resonate conceptually and emotionally in their own artwork. In general, these attitudes—representation (or contextualization), imitation (or reenactment), and resonance (or meditation)—are at the core of modern ‘primitivism’. They have shaped the different ways of dealing with aesthetically-distant artworks and the quest for supposedly authentic origins in them. Within this ‘primitivist’ framework, I argue in this chapter that modern artists have a specific kind of relation with ‘prehistoric art’, one that privileges time rather than space. I suggest that what has attracted them is the “dark abyss of time” and, in particular, the shocking contrast between the sheer materiality of ‘prehistoric art’ (see, for instance, the freshness of a number of rock images) and the immesurable temporal lapse that separates these images from us. To be more precise, I will show how, at least in modern art, the ‘quest for the origins’ (so popular in the field of archaeology) has somewhat been substituted by a fascination for the unaccountability of time. In this context, I argue that modern and contemporary artists did not only react to new discoveries and interpretations in the archeological field but, moreover, they have actively contributed to promoting a relationship to prehistory that is more conceptual than factual and, therefore, producing a globalized concept of ‘prehistoric art’ that has been with us for many decades.
Implementing the SSF Guidelines in Sweden: An Investigation of Law and Policy from EU to Local Levels
Authors: Gillette Maris Boyd , Bennett Juliana , Arias Schreiber Milena
Published: May 2024

The SSF Guidelines seek to enhance the contribution of small-scale fisheries to food security and nutrition, improve their socioeconomic situation, achieve sustainable use and management of fisheries, and ensure that small-scale fisheries contribute to sustainable futures. The EU has voiced commitments to the SSF Guidelines, and EU Member State Sweden has been commended for its work abroad to advance them. This chapter investigates Sweden’s domestic arena, focusing on marine fisheries. We ask whether Sweden’s legal and policy framework – which extends from EU to local levels – is compatible with implementing key SSF Guidelines recommendations, namely, (1) securing small-scale fisheries’ tenure rights to fishery resources and awarding them preferential access to waters under national jurisdiction, (2) providing designated support to small-scale fisheries, and (3) involving small-scale fisheries in management through representation and consultation. Our research shows that EU laws and policies could be compatible with implementing these provisions. National legislation permits Sweden to take these steps, but national policies do not clearly advance them. By contrast, some local policies strongly promote small-scale fisheries. The question is whether local political pressure, combined with EU encouragement, can steer Sweden toward implementation of the SSF Guidelines.
Aerodynamic interactions of blunt bodies free-flying in hypersonic flow
Authors: Seltner Patrick M. , Willems Sebastian , Gülhan Ali
Published: May 2024

This paper takes a new look at how the aerodynamic interactions of multiple bodies in high-speed flow affect their motion behaviors. The influence of the body shape and orientation on aerodynamic and stability behavior in the case of shock–shock and wake–shock interactions is the focus of this publication. Experiments were performed in the hypersonic wind tunnel H2K at the German Aerospace Center (DLR) in Cologne. Free-flight tests with tandem arrangements of spheres and cubes were performed with a synchronized dropping of both objects at various initial conditions of relative streamwise and vertical distance as well as pitch angle. A high-speed stereo-tracking captured the model motions during free-flight, and high-speed schlieren videography provided documentation of the flow topology. Based on the measured 6-degrees-of-freedom (6DoF) motion data, aerodynamic coefficients were determined. As a result, the final lateral velocity of trailing cubes is found to be many times greater than that of spheres regarding shock-wave surfing. For rotating cubes, the results showed that stable shock-wave surfing can become possible over an increasingly wide range of initial positions. This study has identified that the trailing drag coefficient of two axially aligned objects varies strongly with their relative streamwise distance. Furthermore, it was shown that the wake is a region of stability for downstream objects.

Graphical abstract
Zur (Un-)Zulässigkeit geschlechtsangleichender Behandlungsmaßnahmen bei Transidentität und Intergeschlechtlichkeit: Ein vergleichender Blick aus Sicht des Strafrechts
Authors: Schrott Nina
Published: May 2024

Der vorliegende Beitrag befasst sich mit der Frage der Rechtmäßig- bzw. Rechtswidrigkeit
geschlechtsangleichender Behandlungsmaßnahmen bei transidenten wie intergeschlechtlichen Personen als
grundsätzlich tatbestandlichen Körperverletzungen i.S.d. §§223ff. StGB. Nach Klärung
der begrifflichen, medizinischen und rechtlichen Grundlagen werden hierzu die Möglichkeiten ausgelotet,
die nach aktueller Rechtslage für die Betroffenen (bzw. deren Eltern) bestehen, in derartige Eingriffe
(stellvertretend) einzuwilligen. Anstatt hierbei allein auf die (nicht) bestehende Heilanzeige einer Maßnahme
abzustellen, werden weitere “Zwischenindikationen” vorgeschlagen, um sachgerechtere Einwilligungsergebnisse
zu erzielen. Ein Vergleich der beiden Behandlungsgebiete offenbart Gemeinsamkeiten wie Unterschiede in
der strafrechtlichen Rechtmäßigkeitsbewertung und ihrer Begründung.
Mu-Suppression Neurofeedback Training Targeting the Mirror Neuron System: A Pilot Study
Authors: Dastgheib Samaneh S. , Wang Wenbo , Kaufmann Jürgen M. , Moratti Stephan , Schweinberger Stefan R.
Published: May 2024

Neurofeedback training (NFT) is a promising adjuvant intervention method. The desynchronization of mu rhythm (8–13 Hz) in the electroencephalogram (EEG) over centro-parietal areas is known as a valid indicator of mirror neuron system (MNS) activation, which has been associated with social skills. Still, the effect of neurofeedback training on the MNS requires to be well investigated. The present study examined the possible impact of NFT with a mu suppression training protocol encompassing 15 NFT sessions (45 min each) on 16 healthy neurotypical participants. In separate pre- and post-training sessions, 64-channel EEG was recorded while participants (1) observed videos with various types of movements (including complex goal-directed hand movements and social interaction scenes) and (2) performed the "Reading the Mind in the Eyes Test" (RMET). EEG source reconstruction analysis revealed statistically significant mu suppression during hand movement observation across MNS-attributed fronto-parietal areas after NFT. The frequency analysis showed no significant mu suppression after NFT, despite the fact that numerical mu suppression appeared to be visible in a majority of participants during goal-directed hand movement observation. At the behavioral level, RMET accuracy scores did not suggest an effect of NFT on the ability to interpret subtle emotional expressions, although RMET response times were reduced after NFT. In conclusion, the present study exhibited preliminary and partial evidence that mu suppression NFT can induce mu suppression in MNS-attributed areas. More powerful experimental designs and longer training may be necessary to induce substantial and consistent mu suppression, particularly while observing social scenarios.
Can Consumers’ Altruistic Inferences Solve the CSR Initiative Puzzle? A Meta-analytic Investigation
Authors: Carrillat François A. , Plewa Carolin , Pupovac Ljubomir , Vanasse Chloé , Willmott Taylor , Legoux Renaud , Napolova Ekaterina
Published: May 2024

Research into consumer responses to corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives has expanded in the past four decades, yet the evidence thus far provided does not paint a cohesive picture. Results suggest both positive and negative consumer reactions to CSR, and unless such mixed findings can be reconciled, the outcome might be an amalgamation of disparate empirical results rather than a coherent body of knowledge. The current meta-analysis therefore tests whether the mixed findings might reflect consumers’ distinct, altruistic inferences across various contingency factors. On the basis of 337 effect sizes, involving 584,990 unique respondents, in 162 studies published between 1996 and 2021, this study reveals that altruistic inferences are central to the current CSR paradigm, such that they mediate the effects of CSR initiatives on consumer responses across multiple contingencies. The mediation by altruistic inferences is stronger (weaker) in conditions favorable to dispositional (situational) motive attributions. Furthermore, consumers respond more favorably to cause marketing or philanthropy rather than business-related CSR initiatives, when the initiative is environmental (vs. social), the firm’s offering is utilitarian (vs. hedonic), the CSR initiative takes place in self-expressive (vs. survival) cultures and in earlier (vs. later) periods. These findings offer several ethical implications, and they inform both practical recommendations and an agenda for further research directions.
MKLN1-AS promotes pancreatic cancer progression as a crucial downstream mediator of HIF-1α through miR-185-5p/TEAD1 pathway
Authors: Chen Jiayu , Li Lei , Feng Yongpu , Zhao Yating , Sun Fengyuan , Zhou Xianzhu , Yiqi Du , Li Zhaoshen , Kong Fanyang , Kong Xiangyu
Published: May 2024

In pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas (PDAC), profound hypoxia plays key roles in regulating cancer cell behavior, including proliferation, migration, and resistance to therapies. The initial part of this research highlights the important role played by long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) MKLN1-AS, which is controlled by hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF-1α), in the progression of PDAC. Human samples of PDAC showed a notable increase in MKLN1-AS expression, which was linked to a worse outcome. Forced expression of MKLN1-AS greatly reduced the inhibitory impact on the growth and spread of PDAC cells caused by HIF-1α depletion. Experiments on mechanisms showed that HIF-1α influences the expression of MKLN1-AS by directly attaching to a hypoxia response element in the promoter region of MKLN1-AS.MKLN1-AS acts as a competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) by binding to miR-185-5p, resulting in the regulation of TEAD1 expression and promoting cell proliferation, migration, and tumor growth. TEAD1 subsequently enhances the development of PDAC. Our study results suggest that MKLN1-AS could serve as a promising target for treatment and a valuable indicator for predicting outcomes in PDAC. PDAC is associated with low oxygen levels, and the long non-coding RNA MKLN1-AS interacts with TEAD1 in this context.

Graphical abstract
Agronomic monsoon onset definitions to support planting decisions for rainfed rice in Bangladesh
Authors: Han Eunjin , Montes Carlo , Hussain Sk. Ghulam , Krupnik Timothy J.
Published: May 2024

The usability gaps between climate information producers and users have always been an issue in climate services. This study aims to tackle the gap for rice farmers in Bangladesh by exploring the potential value of tailored agronomic monsoon onset definitions. Summer aman rice is primarily cultivated under rainfed conditions, and farmers rely largely on monsoon rainfall and its onset for crop establishment. However, farmers’ perception of the arrival of sufficient rains does not necessarily coincide with meteorological definitions of monsoon onset. Therefore, localized agronomic definitions of monsoon onset need to be developed and evaluated to advance in the targeted actionable climate forecast. We analyzed historical daily rainfall from four locations across a north-south gradient in Bangladesh and defined dynamic definitions of monsoon onset based on a set of local parameters. The agronomic onset definition was evaluated in terms of attainable yields simulated by a rice simulation model compared to results obtained using conventional meteorological onset parameters defined by the amount of rainfall received and static onset dates. Our results show that average simulated yields increase up to 7 – 9% and probabilities of getting lower yields are reduced when the year-to-year varying dynamic onset is used over the two drier locations under fully rainfed conditions. It is mainly due to earlier transplanting dates, avoiding the impact of drought experienced with early monsoon demise. However, no yield increases are observed over the two wetter locations. This study shows the potential benefits of generating “localized and translated” climate predictions.
Group-Based Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for PTSD in a HMO Psychiatry Clinic: An Open Trial
Authors: Loftus Shay T. , Wetzler Kathryn , Paquette Kelly , Christopherson Cody D. , Skolnik Michael C. , Nelson Ross S.
Published: May 2024

Mindfulness and acceptance-based approaches have shown promise as alternative interventions to trauma-focused therapies for PTSD. This open trial examined the potential effectiveness of an 8-session Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) group in reducing psychiatric symptoms and improving quality of life in outpatient adults (N = 86, 79% female) receiving treatment for PTSD in a health maintenance organization (HMO) psychiatry clinic. The group therapy was an adjunct to usual care and utilized the six core processes of ACT: acceptance, cognitive defusion, mindfulness, self-as-context, values, and committed action. Participants completed self-report measures of PTSD symptoms, depression, anxiety and quality of life; and self-report ACT-specific process measures of acceptance, cognitive defusion and mindfulness at pretreatment, posttreatment and 3-month follow-up. Repeated measures analyses of variance conducted with a completer sample (n = 55) demonstrated significant improvements on all variables with medium to large effect sizes at posttreatment and follow-up. The study findings support further investigation in a randomized controlled trial.
Extension of evaluated cross section database for charged particle monitor reactions
Authors: Tárkányi F. , Hermanne A. , Ignatyuk A. V. , Ditrói F. , Takács S. , Capote-Noy R.
Published: May 2024

The evaluation and deduction of recommended cross section values allowing extension of the database to monitor energy and intensity parameters of charged particle beams is presented. Included are 53 charged particle (p, d, 3He, 4He) induced reactions on suited C, Al, Ti, Fe, Ni, Cu, Nb and Au targets. The new data allow more systematic simultaneous use of multiple reactions on the same target and promote the backings of electrodeposited and sedimented targets as monitoring aids. Where possible the energy range is extended to above 100 MeV. Integral yield curves over the studied energy range are derived and compared to experimentally measured yields at specific energy points. A comparison with the theoretical excitation curve prediction of the TALYS-code as available in the TENDL 2021–2023 libraries is shown.
Antagonistic K/Mg ratios: is foliar application of MgSO4 a superior alternative to root resupply?
Authors: Dölger Jasper Lauritz , Henningsen Jon Niklas , Mühling Karl Hermann
Published: May 2024

Backround and aims

The main cause of magnesium (Mg) deficiency is its competition with potassium (K). Maize, as the world’s most widely grown crop, has a high risk of interplay with poorly balanced soils. Since foliar fertilization is applied when availability and distribution of nutrients is limited, this study aimed to determine whether Mg foliar application (FA) is to be favored over root resupply (RS) under such conditions.

Methods

Plants of Zea mays L. were grown hydroponically with low and sufficient Mg supply under adequate to excess [K]. These ratios were combined with FA or RS of Mg, and plants were analyzed for Mg uptake, translocation and distribution. The primary physiological functions of Mg were quantified by chlorophyll content, photosynthetic rate and starch accumulation.

Results

Maize showed a restriction in the uptake antagonism of Mg by K, synergism in translocation, but no effect at distribution. Whilst tissue [Mg] remained unaffected by K, the increased K/Mg ratio impaired the physiological functions of Mg. The FA significantly reduced this K/Mg ratio, but neither the decline in chlorophyll levels and photosynthesis nor starch accumulation was reduced any faster or more markedly than by RS via nutrient solution (NS).

Conclusions

Foliar Mg application is an effective alternative under high K/Mg ratios, but due to the restricted antagonism and the unknown suppressive mechanism of K on the physiological functions of Mg it is not superior to a RS via NS. Under field conditions when compared to soil fertilization, however, it may offer a decisive advantage.
Does the no miracles argument apply to AI?
Authors: Rowbottom Darrell P. , Peden William , Curtis-Trudel André
Published: May 2024

According to the standard no miracles argument, science’s predictive success is best explained by the approximate truth of its theories. In contemporary science, however, machine learning systems, such as AlphaFold2, are also remarkably predictively successful. Thus, we might ask what best explains such successes. Might these AIs accurately represent critical aspects of their targets in the world? And if so, does a variant of the no miracles argument apply to these AIs? We argue for an affirmative answer to these questions. We conclude that if the standard no miracles argument is sound, an AI-specific no miracles argument is also sound.
Defining the method of reflective equilibrium
Authors: Schmidt Michael W.
Published: May 2024

The method of reflective equilibrium (MRE) is a method of justification popularized by John Rawls and further developed by Norman Daniels, Michael DePaul, Folke Tersman, and Catherine Z. Elgin, among others. The basic idea is that epistemic agents have justified beliefs if they have succeeded in forming their beliefs into a harmonious system of beliefs which they reflectively judge to be the most plausible. Despite the common reference to MRE as a method, its mechanisms or rules are typically expressed in a metaphorical or simplified manner and are therefore criticized as too vague. Recent efforts to counter this criticism have been directed towards the attempt to provide formal explications of MRE. This paper aims to supplement these efforts by providing an informal working definition of MRE. This approach challenges the view that MRE can adequately be characterized only in the negative as a set of anti-essentialisms. I argue that epistemic agents follow MRE iff they follow four interconnected rules, which are concerned with a minimalistic form of foundationalism, a minimalistic form of fallibilism, a moderate form of holism, and a minimalistic form of rationality. In the critical spirit of MRE, the corresponding working definition is, of course, provisional and revisable. In general, the aim is to contribute to a reflective equilibrium (RE) concerning MRE. If it is successful, this working definition provides a better grasp of the most basic elements of the method and thereby enhances our understanding of it.
Evaluating the feasibility of direct contact membrane distillation and nanofiltration in ground water treatment through a techno-economic analysis
Authors: Elboughdiri Noureddine , Cosma Renzun , Amari Abdelfattah , Spalevic Velibor , Dudic Branislav , Skataric Goran
Published: May 2024

This study delves into the realm of water treatment by conducting a comprehensive techno-economic evaluation of direct contact membrane distillation (DCMD) and nanofiltration (NF) processes. While previous research has explored the technical aspects of membrane distillation (MD) and nanofiltration, there remains a notable gap in economic analyses. Our research aims to bridge this gap by assessing the financial feasibility of employing MD and NF technologies for water desalination. Specifically, we scrutinize the performance of hydrophobic microporous flat sheet membranes crafted from polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) supported by non-woven polypropylene (PP) in desalinating brackish water through DCMD and NF processes. By varying operating conditions such as flow rate and feed temperature, we evaluate the membrane's efficacy. Employing an analytical model based on heat and mass transfer equations, we predict process performance across diverse scenarios. Our model demonstrates a high level of accuracy, with flux predictions deviating by less than 10% when utilizing the Knudsen-molecular mechanism model. Furthermore, through a detailed design and economic analysis of industrial-scale units for both processes, we reveal that the cost of permeated water is lower with NF compared to DCMD. Specifically, our calculations indicate a water cost of 1.34 USD/m3 for DCMD at a feed temperature of 65 °C with an 80% recovery rate, positioning it as a competitive option among conventional desalination methods. Notably, our financial assessment highlights that steam cost constitutes the primary expense in DCMD operations, contingent upon heating value and fuel prices. Noteworthy findings suggest that natural gas emerges as the most cost-effective fuel for steam production in a DCMD plant. This study underscores the economic viability and potential cost efficiencies associated with NF over DCMD in water treatment applications.
Short term forecasting of base metals prices using a LightGBM and a LightGBM - ARIMA ensemble
Authors: Oikonomou Konstantinos , Damigos Dimitris
Published: May 2024

Base metals are key materials for various industrial sectors such as electronics, construction, manufacturing, etc. Their selling price is important both for the profitability of the mining and metallurgical companies that produce and trade them, as well as for the countries whose economies rely on their exports or tax revenues as a means for national income. Prices are also critical for companies that use base metals as inputs to fabricate end products. The prediction of prices’ future movements can serve as a tool for risk mitigation and better budget planning. In this study, the logarithmic returns of base metals are forecasted using an autoregressive Light Gradient Boosting Machine (LightGBM) as well as an ensemble comprising the aforementioned algorithm and a classical time series forecasting model (i.e., ARIMA). The two models are then compared to three simpler benchmark models, namely a global mean model, an exponential smoothing model and an ARIMA model. When comparing using RMSE, the autoregressive LightGBM model outperformed the three univariate benchmark models (and the ensemble) for forecasting 6 months ahead for aluminum and nickel returns, while copper and zinc returns were forecasted better by the ensemble. Neither of the proposed models performed better than an ARIMA model when it comes to forecasting lead and tin returns.
Trust Improvement Consensus Model Considering Unreliability Degree of Opinions with Hesitant Fuzzy Sets
Authors: Tang Ziwei , Hao Tiantian , Cheng Dong , Cheng Faxin
Published: May 2024

Trust is a crucial element in the consensus decision-making process, as it significantly impacts a group’s capacity to achieve consensus. Nevertheless, low trust by experts may result in detrimental decision-making behaviors that decrease group consensus degree. Meanwhile, it is important to note that experts’ opinions are not always reliable, and ignoring the unreliability degree of opinions may have an impact on the result of consensus decision-making. To deal with these issues, this paper proposes a trust improvement consensus model considering unreliability degree of opinions. First, considering that the discreteness of membership degree has a much smaller impact on the hesitancy degree in hesitant fuzzy elements than the number of membership degrees in extant research, an improved approach is suggested to quantify the unreliability degree of opinions. Second, a trust improvement method is proposed based on the score function for trust propagation path and the trust propagation operator considering unreliability degree of opinions. Third, a method for adjusting the opinions of experts is suggested, considering unreliability degree of opinions. Finally, the feasibility, effectiveness, and advantages of the proposed trust improvement consensus model are verified through a case study on the selection of cascade utilization alternatives for power lithium-ion batteries, as well as simulation and comparative analysis. The results show that: (1) The improved method exhibits a significant impact of the discreteness of membership degree on the hesitancy degree; (2) Trust improvement can facilitate group consensus, and the score function of trust propagation path can enhance trust degree among experts more effectively; (3) The unreliability degree of opinions not only affects the degree of trust improvement but also affects the ranking of alternatives. By taking into account the unreliability degree of opinions throughout the process of adjusting opinions, it is possible to promote group consensus and decrease the unreliability degree of opinions.
Optimization of bromocresol green degradation using ozone micro bubbles: response surface analysis and techno-commercial aspects of a 75 kL/day scale-up plant
Authors: Sen Nirvik , Badiwal Ankit , Singh Krishna Kumar , Mukhopadhyay Sulekha , Shenoy Kalsanka Trivikram
Published: May 2024

Degradation of bromocresol green in alcohol-water solution using ozone micron sized bubbles is reported. A high speed impeller is used to generate micro bubbles of ozone in liquid while ozone is generated using a commercial ozone generator. A 3-level-3-factor Box–Behnken experimental design is used to statistically identify relative importance of the operating parameters studied namely impeller speed, initial concentration of dye and treatment time. Ozone dosage is kept fixed at 4 g/h. Impeller speed is found to be the most dominant factor according to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) calculations. Kinetics for degradation of bromocresol green in solution is also reported. A second order kinetics is seen to fit the experimental (concentration–time) data, corresponding value of rate constant being 0.0153 L/mg-s. Based on the laboratory scale data a detailed techno-commercial analysis of a scaled up (75 kL/day) plant for ozone based degradation of bromocresol is presented. All relevant economic indicators pertaining to the scaled up plant are reported. A specific treatment cost of Rs. 100/m3 of treated water yields a return on investment (ROI) of 68.77 and discounted payback period of 5 years.
Evaluation of LEED-certified office buildings in Turkey in terms of sustainable material use
Authors: Hashi Mohamed Nur , Kasapoğlu Esin
Published: May 2024

Environmental issues such as ozone depletion, global warming, water pollution, and melting glaciers in the polar regions have been exacerbated by industrial and chemical activities, as the Industrial Revolution led to unlimited use of our limited natural resources. Approaches have been developed to solve human and environmental health problems. Efforts are underway to minimize the adverse effects of buildings on the environment. This process helps reduce materials' environmental damage and select environmentally friendly materials. For these reasons, producing recyclable, ecologically friendly, and energy-saving materials has gained importance. This article used a case study method to analyze sustainable material usage using twenty LEED-certified office projects in Turkey. Twenty new buildings, including Certificate One, Silver Three, Gold Eight, and Platinum Eight, have been evaluated regarding sustainable materials according to LEED criteria. Tables containing material and resource application principles have been created to assess the selected buildings in terms of sustainable material principles, and these prepared tables provide information about sustainable material use. The evaluation is based on eight criteria and sources of LEED material, including recyclable materials, renewable materials, rapidly renewable, certified wood, regional materials, construction waste management, and re-use of materials. As a result of the study, it was determined that 95% to 75% of the five categories with the weakest application among the eight basic materials and resource principles failed to be below the desired level and should be improved.
Comparative study for enhanced temperature control in smart greenhouses
Authors: Belkadi Anouar , Sghaier Nizar , Ben Hassine Islem , Mezghani Dhafer , Mami Abdelkader
Published: May 2024

This paper introduces a comparative study of four distinct controllers intended for efficient temperature regulation in smart greenhouses. Beginning with an overview of the general research background, the paper addresses the specific challenges inherent in greenhouse temperature control, as well as the different techniques used for regulation. Utilizing Matlab Simulink software, the greenhouse temperature control system is simulated. The study evaluates the performance of each controller in maintaining the internal temperature within the desired range amidst varying external conditions. Previous research has shown that all four controllers effectively maintain the desired temperature range, although their performance varies in terms of power consumption, precision, robustness, and response time, depending primarily on the project requirements and goals. Our contribution primarily consists of studying all these types of controllers and determining the best controller to choose for regulating the internal temperature of the greenhouse.
Evolutionary Games and the Replicator Dynamics
Authors: Mendoza-Palacios Saul , Hernández-Lerma Onésimo
Published: May 2024

This Element introduces the replicator dynamics for symmetric and asymmetric games where the strategy sets are metric spaces. Under this hypothesis the replicator dynamics evolves in a Banach space of finite signed measures. The authors provide a general framework to study the stability of the replicator dynamics for evolutionary games in this Banach space. This allows them to establish a relation between Nash equilibria and the stability of the replicator for normal a form games applicable to oligopoly models, theory of international trade, public good models, the tragedy of commons, and War of attrition game among others. They also provide conditions to approximate the replicator dynamics on a space of measures by means of a finite-dimensional dynamical system and a sequence of measure-valued Markov processes.
Theatricality, Playtexts and Society
Authors: Barnett David
Published: May 2024

This Element proposes a novel way of defining, understanding and approaching theatricality, a term that exists both in the theatre and, more broadly, in everyday life. It argues that four foundational, material processes of theatre-making manifest themselves in all playtexts in both overt and covert forms. Each of the four sections defines a different theatrical process, explores its functions in two chosen playtexts and examines its implications for the wider experience of the spectators outside the theatre. The Element concludes with a supplementary reflection on performance to show how even seemingly untheatrical playtexts can be analysed and staged to reveal their unspoken theatricality. It also argues that this new understanding of theatricality has a politics, that the artifice of any theatre and the constructedness of any society are analogous and that both, consequently, can be fundamentally changed. This Element is also available as Open Access on Cambridge Core.