bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IoT driven joint compressed sensing and shallow learning approach for ECG signal-reconstruction
Authors: Khadri Shruthi , K Bhoganna Naveen , Aravind Kumar Madam
Published: February 2024

Because biological signal transmission in real time might be very demanding, cloud and internet of things (IoT) infrastructure are required. To do this, the main component of the signal serves as the focal point of a reconstruction strategy that has been developed. The input is transferred to the intended destination once it has been encoded. Security is an important consideration that must not be disregarded. For long-term healthcare monitoring via lightweight wireless networks, electrocardiogram (ECG) compression is a major difficulty. Reducing energy consumption in wireless data transmission and precisely calculating error rates for data reconstruction are two essential components of compressed sensing. The application of effective encoding methods is crucial for these considerations. We present multi-task compressed sensing (MT-CS), a unique method for compressing ECG data. When used to wireless network systems with several embedded sensors, this technique is quite effective. From the ECG data, the model learns the fundamental adaptive properties needed for correlation. We use the multiparameter intelligent monitoring in intensive care (MIMIC-II) dataset to investigate the performance of the suggested MT-CS reconstruction technique in order to assess its strength and application. In comparison to current compressed sensing methods, the simulation results demonstrate that the suggested reconstruction methodology utilizing MT-CS generates high-quality reconstruction signals with fewer observations.
Safety hysteresis comparator design for transient overvoltage detection
Authors: Kornkanok Ukrit , Deeon Sansak , Wongcharoen Saktanong
Published: February 2024

This research introduces a safety hysteresis comparator that detects transient overvoltage in the track circuit relay interlocking of railway signaling system. This overvoltage is caused by voltage faults transmitted through the electric conductor on the track feed unit to the receiver equipped with the track relay, which acts as the occupied track circuit controller. The circuit was designed using safety system design principles and concepts. Findings illustrated that the transient overvoltage detection of the safety hysteresis comparator in the track circuit activated when the input voltage (Vin) was higher than the high hysteresis signal level (Vhyst_H). When Vin was less than low hysteresis signal level (VVhyst_L), the output voltage (Vo) state was low. Otherwise, it was high. The hysteresis voltage was 4.4 V. The installation of the transient overvoltage detector in the track circuit was to monitor the transient overvoltage fault in the track circuit and to confirm that the hysteresis comparator was in the safety failure mode, which was the safety function for the track circuit to be compliant with the IEC 61800-5-2 standard to ensure the system stability and reliability. It would maximize the performance of the controlling function and commanding of train arrangement of State Railway of Thailand (SRT).
Development of biomechanical behaviour of magnesium alloys for biomedical context
Authors: Owida Hamza Abu , Alnaimat Feras , Al-Naami Bassam , Al-Nabulsi Jamal , Turab Nidal
Published: February 2024

Magnesium alloys, which belong to the category of biodegradable metals, have a significant amount of potential to be utilized as implant materials, and as a result, they draw a lot of attention. This article is a review that summarizes the mechanical properties of magnesium alloys that are used in medical applications. This article illustrates the mechanical behaviors of magnesium alloys that are used in biomedical applications as well as the ways that may be used to improve the mechanical characteristics of biodegradable magnesium alloys. In conclusion, the difficulties that will need to be overcome in the creation of biodegradable magnesium alloys are discussed.
Development and Validation of Contextualized Kindergarten Module for Children with Hearing Impairment
Authors: Guzman Sammy Boy B.
Published: February 2024

This study aimed to develop and validate a sign language-based and contextualized kindergarten module for children with hearing impairment. There is a need to develop and contextualize a module in order to cater the unmet needs of students with hearing impairment. The developed module includes a teaching guide for parents, for them to become more effective co-facilitators of learning. The distinctive feature of this module is that, the sign language interpretations are with pictures and texts. The pictures vividly show the step-by-step procedure on how to sign the specific word.  The pictures are supported by the comprehensive explanation on how to sign the words. This study utilized the Research and Development (R & D) research method to systematically design, develop and evaluate the instructional material. The participants of this study are eleven (11) students with hearing impairment and eleven (11) parents of students with hearing impairment. The respondents and served as expert-validators are master teacher, kindergarten teacher, and SPED teacher. It employed a purposive sampling technique; it purposely selected a population related to children with hearing impairment. To analyze the qualitative data, it was imported to MAXQDA software with the use of Horizontalization method by Moustakas. For statistical treatment of the descriptive data, researchers used the PSPP software. The study found that the parents’ ideal module for children with hearing impairment has five emerging themes, such as 1) sign language medium of instruction, 2) disability consideration, 3) media consideration, 4) level of difficulty, and 5) technical design. Expert-validators assessed that the validity of contextualized kindergarten module is highly acceptable among the dimensions of: content, format and language, presentation, and usefulness. Effectiveness of the contextualized module as perceived by the parents yielded a total of 96.36% positive responses.
The Effectiveness of Problem-Based Learning Strategies in the Creative Thinking Skills of Grade 12 Students in Contemporary Philippine Arts from the Regions
Authors: Andal Geraldine Q. , Hermosa Jherwin P.
Published: February 2024

This research study focused on examining the effectiveness of problem-based learning strategies in enhancing the creative thinking skills of Grade 12 students studying Contemporary Philippine Arts from the Regions. The study was conducted at the Senior High School section of Dolores Macasaet National High School, situated in Brgy. Pahinga Norte, Candelaria, Quezon Province. The participants in the study consisted of three sections from each of the three Grade 12 strands, all of whom were taught using problem-based learning methods. To facilitate the implementation of problem-based learning, the researcher created five self-made semi-detailed lesson plans covering the first five weeks of the third grading period. The research design utilized in this study was a pre-experimental one-group pre-test and post-test design. For data analysis, frequency and percentage were employed, along with mean and standard deviation calculations. Additionally, the Paired Samples T-test was utilized to compare the pre-test and post-test results. In contrast to traditional teacher-centered instruction, the problem-based learning approach adopted in this study involved presenting the problem to students first, making it a more student-centered method. This approach fostered a classroom environment that encouraged group work and collaboration, providing opportunities for students to engage in problem-based learning projects. The findings of the study revealed significant differences in the pre-test and post-test performance of the participants in terms of creative thinking skills, particularly in fluency, flexibility, originality, and elaboration, following the implementation of problem-based learning strategies.
Monocytes Release Pro-Cathepsin D to Drive Blood-to-Brain Transcytosis in Diabetes
Authors: Zhao Dan , Huang Zeng-Kang , Liang Yu , Li Zhi-Jun , Zhang Xue-Wei , Li Kun-Hang , Wu Hao , Zhang Xu-Dong , Li Chen-Sheng , An Dong , Sun Xue , An Ming-Xin , Shi Jun-Xiu , Bao Yi-Jun , Tian Li , Wang Di-Fei , Wu An-Hua , Chen Yu-Hua , Zhao Wei-Dong
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Microvascular complications are the major outcome of type 2 diabetes progression, and the underlying mechanism remains to be determined.

METHODS:

High-throughput RNA sequencing was performed using human monocyte samples from controls and diabetes. The transgenic mice expressing human CTSD (cathepsin D) in the monocytes was constructed using CD68 promoter. In vivo 2-photon imaging, behavioral tests, immunofluorescence, transmission electron microscopy, Western blot analysis, vascular leakage assay, and single-cell RNA sequencing were performed to clarify the phenotype and elucidate the molecular mechanism.

RESULTS:

Monocytes expressed high-level CTSD in patients with type 2 diabetes. The transgenic mice expressing human CTSD in the monocytes showed increased brain microvascular permeability resembling the diabetic microvascular phenotype, accompanied by cognitive deficit. Mechanistically, the monocytes release nonenzymatic pro-CTSD to upregulate caveolin expression in brain endothelium triggering caveolae-mediated transcytosis, without affecting the paracellular route of brain microvasculature. The circulating pro-CTSD activated the caveolae-mediated transcytosis in brain endothelial cells via its binding with low-density LRP1 (lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1). Importantly, genetic ablation of CTSD in the monocytes exhibited a protective effect against the diabetes-enhanced brain microvascular transcytosis and the diabetes-induced cognitive impairment.

CONCLUSIONS:

These findings uncover the novel role of circulatory pro-CTSD from monocytes in the pathogenesis of cerebral microvascular lesions in diabetes. The circulatory pro-CTSD is a potential target for the intervention of microvascular complications in diabetes.
Inverted U‐Shaped Association of Plasma Resolvin D2 With Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease and the Mediation Effects of Serum Cholesterol: A Chinese Community‐Based Study
Authors: Liu Bingyue , Zhang Jin , Zhang Kexin , Li Mengyuan , Jing Yang , Gu Shujun , Ding Hongzhan , Liang Yanyu , Zhou Hui , Dong Chen
Published: February 2024

Background

Resolvin D2 (RvD2) has been reported to protect against the development of atherosclerosis in animal models. The objective of this study was to examine the prospective association between plasma RvD2 and the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) at the population level.

Methods and Results

A cohort of 2633 community‐dwelling individuals aged 35–60 years was followed for 8 years in this study. Adjusted hazard ratios and 95% CIs for ASCVD outcomes according to baseline RvD2 levels were calculated using Cox proportional hazards models. Mediation analysis was used to test the indirect effect of serum cholesterol indicators on the association between RvD2 and ASCVD probability. In total, 284 new cases of ASCVD were identified during follow‐up. An inverted U‐shaped association between natural log (ln)‐transformed RvD2 and incident ASCVD was determined, and the threshold value for lnRvD2 was 3.87. Below the threshold, each unit increase in lnRvD2 was associated with a 2.05‐fold increased risk of ASCVD (95% CI, 1.13–3.74;
P
=0.019). Above the threshold, each unit increase in lnRvD2 was associated with a 36% reduced risk of ASCVD (95% CI, 0.51–0.80;
P
<0.001). In addition, the association between RvD2 and ASCVD probability was partially mediated by high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (15.81%) when lnRvD2 <3.87, but by total cholesterol (30.23%) and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (30.13%) when lnRvD2 ≥3.87.

Conclusions

Both lower and higher RvD2 levels are associated with a reduced risk of ASCVD, forming an inverted U‐shaped relationship. Furthermore, this association is partially mediated by total cholesterol, high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol.
A Spatial Artificial Chemistry Implementation of a Gene Regulatory Network Aimed at Generating Protein Concentration Dynamics
Authors: Miralavy Iliya , Banzhaf Wolfgang
Published: February 2024

Gene regulatory networks are networks of interactions in organisms responsible for determining the production levels of proteins and peptides. Mathematical and computational models of gene regulatory networks have been proposed, some of them rather abstract and called artificial regulatory networks. In this contribution, a spatial model for gene regulatory networks is proposed that is biologically more realistic and incorporates an artificial chemistry to realize the interaction between regulatory proteins called the transcription factors and the regulatory sites of simulated genes. The result is a system that is quite robust while able to produce complex dynamics similar to what can be observed in nature. Here an analysis of the impact of the initial states of the system on the produced dynamics is performed, showing that such models are evolvable and can be directed toward producing desired protein dynamics.
Nano-microcapsules loaded with nano-antibacterial agents for long-term inhibition of drug-resistant strains
Authors: He Ke , Pengjiazi Fu , Wu Yanqi , He Yanting , Hu Qing , Wu Jia , Cui Guangxun , Zhang Jun , Jin Jun
Published: February 2024

There are growing concerns and worries about the safety of public facilities and equipment. Therefore, coating products with antibacterial properties have become the key to solve this problem, and there is an urgent need to develop new antibacterial architectural coatings. In this study,
polystyrene nano-microspheres (PS NMS) were prepared from styrene as raw material. PS nano-microcapsules (PS NMC) were prepared by solute co-diffusion method (SCM) using PS NMS as a template, which were modified to obtain PS-OH NMC. CuS nanoparticles (CuS NPs) with antibacterial activity were
further loaded to prepare CuS@PS-OH NMC with long-term antibacterial activity. The SEM results showed that the particle size of CuS@PS-OH NMC was about 410 nm, which was larger than that of PS-OH NMC. The characterization of UV and IR spectra confirmed that CuS NPs were not only encapsulated
into PS NMC in large quantities, but also adhered to its surface in a small amount. CuS@PS-OH NMC has good water solubility and can slowly release Cu2+, showing good long-term antibacterial properties against Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The CuS@PS-OH
NMC developed in this study has excellent performance, good antibacterial effect, environmental friendliness, low price, etc. More importantly, it can efficiently and long-term inhibit MRSA, and can be used as a potential antibacterial architectural coating for special scenarios such as hospitals,
schools and densely populated places, which has excellent social and economic value.
Efficacy of vancomycin-loaded Mg-hydroxyapatite scaffolds in chronic osteomyelitis
Authors: Shang Hongyue , Mei Wenlong
Published: February 2024

In this study, we develop a novel magnesium (Mg)/hydroxyapatite (HA) scaffold loaded with vancomycin (VAN) to provide long-lasting antibacterial activity for bone defect repair in chronic osteomyelitis (CO) in children. Firstly, the VAN-Mg/HA nanoparticles were successfully synthesized,
as evidenced by X-ray diffraction analysis. Additionally, the VAN-Mg/HA nanoparticles extended the half-life of VAN by nearly 5-fold. Moreover, our results revealed that the VAN-Mg/HA nanoparticles exhibited a significant antibacterial effect, which was further enhanced with an increase in
the concentration of Mg/HA nanoparticles. We also found that the VAN-Mg/HA nanoparticles enhanced the viability and migration of BMSCs, indicating good biocompatibility and osteoconductivity. Furthermore, the VAN-Mg/HA nanoparticles demonstrated higher expression levels of osteogenesis-related
genes, such as alkaline phosphatase, RUNX2, and osteocalcin, showing good osteogenic properties. In conclusion, the VAN-Mg/HA scaffolds show great potential for antibiosis and bone regeneration in children with CO.
Mechanism of pterostilbene in improving myocardial injury after percutaneous coronary intervention through being targeted on miR-26a-5p
Authors: Zhao Lini , Sun Guowei , Wang Longtao , Fang Cao , Chen Yuewu , Ding Ping
Published: February 2024

Our study aimed to discuss the mechanism of pterostilbene in improving myocardial injury after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) through targeting miR-26a-5p. The myocardial cells were isolated from C57BL/6 mice. They were frozen in liquid nitrogen for reservation after they
were passaged. The cell transfection was performed with miR-26a-5p depressor or lipofectamine 3000. The Ischemia-Reperfusion (I/R) model was established. They were divided into several sets including control set, I/R set, miR-26a-5p imitative set, miR-26a-5p depressor set and pterostilbene
set. The presentation of GAPDH and miR-26a-5p was monitored with Real-time PCR. The proliferation was tested with Flow Cytometry (FCM). Caspase-3 activity was tested with spectrophotometry. The protein expression was monitored with Western blot assay. The level of IL-6 and TNF-α
was tested with ELISA method. There was abnormal miR-26a-5p expression in the I/R model. The survival rate of myocardial cells was improved by upregulating miR-26a-5p. And expression of apoptotic protein as p53 was reduced and SOD activity was increased. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) level
was reduced. The level of IL-6 and TNF-α was restrained. miR-26a-5p in I/R model was increased with pterostilbene notably. The myocardial injury was improved by pterostilbene through regulating miR-26a-5p. It could provide a brand-new scheme for treating myocardial injury after
PCI.
Influence of steam curing on hydration and microstructure of cement paste containing high-volume lithium slag
Authors: Qiu Chengjiang , Zhao Yong , Zhu Xiaoping , He Donghong
Published: February 2024

The application of supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) of concrete reduces the carbon emissions due to the reduced cement. But the early properties of mortar or concrete with high-volume SCMs are degraded, which hinders the expanded applications of concrete. However, early properties
of mortar or concrete containing high-volume SCMs concrete can be effectively improved by steam curing. The influence of different steam curing systems on the microstructure and strengths of cement paste with high-volume of lithium slag (LS) are studied. The results manifest the early-compressive
strengths, the content of chemically bound water and the hydration degree of the specimens are improved due to the different curing systems. The early-compressive strengths of specimens under steam curing-II is better than that under steam curing-I, but the compressive strengths at later ages
is not as good as the steam curing-I, which is because of the maximum steam curing temperature. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) images show that cement paste with LS have a denser microstructure under the action of steam curing. This is not only due to the filling effect of LS, but
also because LS is further activated under high temperature conditions, which promotes generation of hydration products and fills the internal pores. The data of mercury intrusion porosimetry also proves the above phenomenon.
Preparation of high-performance materials based on carbon nanofibers and analysis of mechanical properties at room and high temperatures
Authors: Hu Ling , Zhao Na , Li Na , Zheng Zhe
Published: February 2024

The shortcomings of conventional building materials, such as inadequate tensile strength and fire resistance, have been significantly exacerbated with the emergence of complex and diverse engineering practices. However, the current research on high-performance building materials is
still in its nascent stage. Therefore, our study aims to investigate the potential improvements in the mechanical properties of building materials through the incorporation of carbon fiber and nano silica. Specifically, we focus on assessing the mechanical properties of these modified materials
at both room and elevated temperatures. Our experimental results demonstrate a notable enhancement in compressive strength. At room temperature, the H2 group exhibited a 15.1% increase in compressive strength, while the H5 group experienced a 7.3% increase. Notably, the compressive strength
of the H7 group reached its highest value at 47.13 MPa. Additionally, the H2 group displayed the highest bending strength at 5.18 MPa. Our electron scanning microscopy analysis revealed the uniform dispersion of carbon fibers within the building materials, without any clumping. This suggests
that when the dosage of Carbon Fiber reaches 0.6% of the mass of building materials, it can be uniformly dispersed within the mixture. We have also evaluated the performance of the modified materials under high temperatures. It was observed that the prefabricated building materials group experienced
a 65% reduction in compressive strength when subjected to 800 °C. Conversely, the carbon fiber building materials exhibited a compressive strength loss of over 62%. Overall, the carbon fiber building materials outperformed the standard building materials under high temperature conditions,
with significantly higher compressive strength. Moreover, the modified materials demonstrated an improvement in the residual splitting strength, ranging from 26% to 37% when exposed to temperatures over 800 °C. These findings indicate a substantial enhancement in the mechanical properties
of the proposed modified materials. In conclusion, the incorporation of carbon fiber and nano silica into the building materials resulted in substantial improvements in their mechanical properties. These modified materials hold great potential for practical construction projects, offering
higher performance and enhanced durability.
Application of graphene nanoparticles in sports clothing for enhancing moisture absorption, breathability, wear resistance, and antimicrobial properties
Authors: Zhang Hua
Published: February 2024

Carbon nanomaterials, with their exceptional properties, exhibit promising potential in the textile industry. In this study, we prepare sports clothing containing graphene nanoparticles (GNPs) for college physical education (PE) teachers and investigate its performance such as moisture
absorption, breathability, wear resistance, and antimicrobial properties. The results showed that the moisture absorption rate and air permeability of the sports clothing containing GNPs were significantly superior (31.3% and 203.5 mm/s respectively) compared to conventional sports clothing.
Additionally, our findings demonstrated that the sports clothing containing GNPs has excellent wear-resistance and antimicrobial properties. In conclusion, these findings suggest that GNPs can enhance performance in sportswear, which not only provides university physical education instructors
with high-quality and durable athletic gear but also offers novel insights into the sports equipment industry.
Enhancing amorphous carbon wear resistance at high contact stresses through Ag incorporation
Authors: Lin Yan-yan , Deng Zhi-jun
Published: February 2024

High load capacity is desirable in various industrial applications, such as gudgeon pins, cam followers, gears and bearings. Amorphous carbon (a-C) coatings, known for their minimal friction and low wear rates, have found extensive application in automotive components. However, the
a-C films often fail at high contact stress (>2 GPa). Extensive efforts have been devoted for the application of a-C under high contact stress, and a few groups can prevent the sudden failure of a-C in high load condition up to now. Nevertheless, the wear rate is still high, which is in
the range of ∼10−7 mm3/Nm, at least ten times greater than that of films under low stresses (<2 GPa). To tackle this issue, Ag-C supra-nano-dual-phase composite (SNDP) was fabricated using magnetron sputtering (‘supra-nano-dual-phase’ means the
diameter of each phase is smaller than 10 nm). Various methods were employed to examine the structural features, mechanical attributes, and tribological performance of Ag-C SNDP. The research revealed that Ag nanocrystals, ranging in size from 2 to 4 nm, were uniformly incorporated within
the amorphous carbon matrix. The Ag-C SNDP film with 4.0 at.% Ag shows an order of magnitude lower than amorphous carbon (a-C) at wear rate. It also pushes the load-bearing capacity as high as 4.0 GPa, which has rarely been reported before. The superior tribological behavior of Ag-C SNDP composite
can be explained in three factors: (1) the ‘supra-nanometer-sized dual-phase’ structure provides adequate strength; (2) the surface graphitization within several nanometers from the surface enables low friction coefficient and prevents sudden failure; (3) incorporating Ag into
the films resulted in a reduction in residual stress and an increase in film toughness.
The Rise of Data-Driven Weather Forecasting: A First Statistical Assessment of Machine Learning–Based Weather Forecasts in an Operational-Like Context
Authors: Ben Bouallègue Zied , Clare Mariana C. A. , Magnusson Linus , Gascón Estibaliz , Maier-Gerber Michael , Janoušek Martin , Rodwell Mark , Pinault Florian , Dramsch Jesper S. , Lang Simon T. K. , Raoult Baudouin , Rabier Florence , Chevallier Matthieu , Sandu Irina , Dueben Peter , Chantry Matthew , Pappenberger Florian
Published: February 2024

Data-driven modeling based on machine learning (ML) is showing enormous potential for weather forecasting. Rapid progress has been made with impressive results for some applications. The uptake of ML methods could be a game changer for the incremental progress in traditional numerical weather prediction (NWP) known as the “quiet revolution” of weather forecasting. The computational cost of running a forecast with standard NWP systems greatly hinders the improvements that can be made by increasing model resolution and ensemble sizes. An emerging new generation of ML models, developed using high-quality reanalysis datasets like ERA5 for training, allows forecasts that require much lower computational costs and that are highly competitive in terms of accuracy. Here, we compare for the first time ML-generated forecasts with standard NWP-based forecasts in an operational-like context, initialized from the same initial conditions. Focusing on deterministic forecasts, we apply common forecast verification tools to assess to what extent a data-driven forecast produced with one of the recently developed ML models (PanguWeather) matches the quality and attributes of a forecast from one of the leading global NWP systems (the ECMWF IFS). The results are very promising, with comparable accuracy for both global metrics and extreme events, when verified against both the operational IFS analysis and synoptic observations. Overly smooth forecasts, increasing bias with forecast lead time, and poor performance in predicting tropical cyclone intensity are identified as current drawbacks of ML-based forecasts. A new NWP paradigm is emerging relying on inference from ML models and state-of-the-art analysis and reanalysis datasets for forecast initialization and model training.
The Role of Diabatic Heating in the Midlatitude Atmospheric Circulation Response to Climate Change
Authors: Ghosh Soumik , Lachmy Orli , Kaspi Yohai
Published: February 2024

Climate models generally predict a poleward shift of the midlatitude circulation in response to climate change induced by increased greenhouse gas concentration, but the intermodel spread of the eddy-driven jet shift is large and poorly understood. Recent studies point to the significance of midlatitude midtropospheric diabatic heating for the intermodel spread in the jet latitude. To examine the role of diabatic heating in the jet response to climate change, a series of simulations are performed using an idealized aquaplanet model. It is found that both increased CO2 concentration and increased saturation vapor pressure induce a similar warming response, leading to a poleward and upward shift of the midlatitude circulation. An exception to this poleward shift is found for a certain range of temperatures, where the eddy-driven jet shifts equatorward, while the latitude of the eddy heat flux remains essentially unchanged. This equatorward jet shift is explained by the connection between the zonal-mean momentum and heat budgets: increased diabatic heating in the midlatitude midtroposphere balances the cooling by the Ferrel cell ascending branch, enabling an equatorward shift of the Ferrel cell streamfunction and eddy-driven jet, while the latitude of the eddy heat flux remains unchanged. The equatorward jet shift and the strengthening of the midlatitude diabatic heating are found to be sensitive to the model resolution. The implications of these results for a potential reduction in the jet shift uncertainty through the improvement of convective parameterizations are discussed.

Significance Statement

The latitude of the eddy-driven jet displays considerable variation in climate models, and the factors influencing this variability are poorly understood. This work connects the strength of midlatitude diabatic heating to the structure of the midlatitude circulation and the eddy-driven jet latitude. The direction of the eddy-driven jet shift in response to climate change is found to depend on the diabatic heating response, which in turn depends on the parameterized convective heating. These results highlight the role of convective parameterizations in the representation of the midlatitude circulation in climate models. Additionally, the results imply that the eddy-driven jet shift cannot be explained solely based on the storm-track response to climate change, in contrast with previously suggested explanations.
Small-Scale Diffusion Dryer on an Optical Particle Counter for High-Humidity Aerosol Measurements with an Uncrewed Aircraft System
Authors: Savvakis Vasileios , Schön Martin , Bramati Matteo , Bange Jens , Platis Andreas
Published: February 2024

The negative effects of relative humidity to measurements of particulate matter (PM) due to hygroscopic growth are often not inherently handled by low-cost optical particle counters (OPCs). This study presents a new approach in constructing a miniaturized diffusion dryer, for use with an OPC mounted on an uncrewed aircraft system (UAS), namely, the DJI S900 (weight of 7.5 kg and flight endurance of 20 min) for short-term measurements under humid conditions. In this work, an OPC of type N3 (Alphasense) was employed alongside the dryer, with experiments both in the laboratory and outdoors. Evaluation of the dryer’s performance in a fog tank showed effective drying from almost saturated air to 41% relative humidity for 35 min, which is longer than the endurance of the UAS, and therefore sufficient. Changes in the flow rate through the OPC-N3 with the dryer showed a 17% reduction compared to an absent dryer, but the measured PM values remained unaffected. Airborne measurements were taken from four hovering flights near a governmental air pollution station (Mannheim-Nord, Germany) under humid conditions (88%–93%) where the system gave agreeable concentrations when the dryer was in place, but significantly overestimated all PM types without it. At a rural area near the Boundary Layer Field Site Falkenberg (Lindenberg, Germany), operated by the German Meteorological Service (DWD), vertical profiles inside a low-altitude cloud showed sharp increase in concentrations when the UAS entered the cloud layer, demonstrating its capability to accurately detect the layer base.
China-Russia Strategic Partnership: The Strategic Fulcrum of China's Rise?
Authors: Yu Lei , Sui Sophia
Published: February 2024

During the post-Cold War era, China has committed to creating a strategic partnership with Russia. Doing so is a key part of China's foreign strategy of restoring its past glory as a great power, with this partnership as the strategic fulcrum for its “peaceful” rise at the systemic or global level. It also reflects China's desire to intensify cooperation with its largest neighbour to sustain economic growth. By formulating a strategic partnership, China wishes to re-shape the current global order and counterattack its perceived containment of its rise by the US. By intensifying cooperation, particularly around the economy and resource development, China hopes to sustain the growth that its political leaders have long considered as underlying China's “hard” power and rejuvenation. By expanding their military collaboration, China aspires to accelerate the PLA's modernization and work with Russia to contain US military unilateralism and hegemony.
Cultural Predictors of Facial Ethnicity Preference in the Miskitu and Mestizos of Rural Nicaragua
Authors: Jucker J. -L. , Thornborrow T. , Batres C. , Penton-Voak I. M. , Jamieson M. A. , Burt D. M. , Bowie W. N. , Tovée M. J. , Boothroyd L. G.
Published: February 2024

Both basic visual experience and cultural associations with race and ethnicity may contribute to the extent observers do or do not favor some facial ethnicity cues over others. Given that visual media contain a highly biased selection of faces, with Whiteness both over-represented and strongly privileged in film and television, communities for whom visual media are relatively novel may experience an additional, pervasive source of attitudes to facial ethnicity markers. In the current research, we compared individuals of Mestizo and Miskitu identities living in communities on the Caribbean Coast of Nicaragua with, and without, regular access to television on their relative preference for facial stimuli manipulated to look more or less White (Black vs White, Black vs Mestizo, Mestizo vs White). Results showed that all communities showed an overall preference for images with lighter skin, although changes in facial shape did not affect preferences. Those who had attended more years of education preferred whiter faces than those with less education, and those who watched more television preferred whiter faces more only where color (rather than shape) had been manipulated. Results are discussed in terms of the broader relations around ethnicity, status, and technological transition in this area.
The secret and The Circle: Georg Simmel’s social theory and Dave Eggers’ dystopian fiction
Authors: Davison-Vecchione Daniel
Published: February 2024

This article considers Dave Eggers’ 2013 dystopian novel The Circle, which critically explores digital surveillance, alongside Georg Simmel’s social-theoretical writings on the secret, social distance and proximity, and the intersection of social circles. The article shows how Simmel’s social theory illuminates important aspects of secrecy and surveillance in The Circle, including the secret’s constitutive role in individuality and social relations, and allows one to reframe the estranging effect of certain dystopias in terms of Simmelian strangerhood, which is based on the paradoxical unity of closeness and remoteness in social-spatial relations. Conversely, The Circle in certain respects pushes beyond Simmel’s social theory by using literary devices to critically explore social subjectivity and by highlighting elements of 21st century life that challenge or complicate Simmel’s sociological claims. Especially notable in this respect are The Circle’s insights into the affective intimacies between people and their personal technologies that shape our digital social practices. By bringing Simmel’s social theory and The Circle into productive dialogue, this article lays the groundwork for an approach to analysing dystopia that more fully appreciates the genre’s sociological import – including how at least some dystopias implicitly engage in social theorising – than prevailing, literary-formalist approaches to the study of speculative fiction.
Growth and decline of a sustainable city: A multitemporal perspective on blue-black-green infrastructures at the pre-Columbian Lowland Maya city of Tikal
Authors: Isendahl Christian , Dunning Nicholas P , Grazioso Liwy , Hawken Scott , Lentz David L , Scarborough Vernon L
Published: February 2024

The New Urban Agenda’s call for long-term visions in urban planning fails to recognise that ‘long-term’ implies different longevities depending on context of assessment. Compared to other social sciences, archaeological approaches add rigour to envisioning urban sustainability over several centuries and millennia. The archaeology of the pre-Columbian Lowland Maya urban tradition is an interesting case because data have been used to support conflicting arguments about Maya urban sustainability. We suggest that these contradictions can be partly explained by: (1) sustainability being ambiguously defined, (2) subsets of the urban system being expected to indicate the behaviour of other subsets or of the entire system, and (3) processes being evaluated using different timescales. Drawing on 1500 years of urban history at Tikal, this paper examines how archaeological perspectives add depth of reflection and unfold critical assumptions of the meaning of ‘long-term’ and ‘sustainability’ concealed in self-explanatory notions. We outline the development and longevity of urban settlement at Tikal and analyse the blue-black-green (water, soil, vegetation) infrastructures that sustained urban metabolism and sponsored basic urban functions. Our analyses contribute new insights on the challenges associated with future sustainability transitions over varying temporal scales. The diversity of past and present urban systems and infrastructural initiatives cannot be fitted within a single narrative of urban sustainability, however, and much research is required to examine how blue-black-green infrastructures can support transformative change of aggregated human population zones struggling with potable water scarcity, soil degradation, and habitat and biodiversity loss.
Reducing the Burdens of Paid Caregivers of Older Adults by Using Assistive Technology: A Scoping Review
Authors: Choi U Yeong , Patterson Patrick , Chinho Norma
Published: February 2024

Background:

Paid caregivers are needed to support older adults, but caregiver burden contributes to high turnover rates. Assistive technologies help perform activities of daily living (ADLs) and can reduce caregiver burden, but little is known about how they impact paid caregivers.

Objective:

This scoping review provides an overview of evidence on using assistive technology to reduce burdens on paid caregivers working with older adults.

Design:

The review was conducted from May to August 2022. The eligibility criteria included: (1) publication within 5 years in peer-reviewed journals, (2) investigation of assistive technology, (3) main participants include paid caregivers supporting older adults, and (4) describing impacts on caregiver burden. Searches were conducted in 6 databases, generating 702 articles. The charted data included (1) country of study, (2) participant care roles, (3) study design, (4) main outcomes, and (5) types of assistive technology. Numerical description and qualitative content analysis of themes were used.

Results:

Fifteen articles reporting on studies in 9 countries were retained for analysis. Studies used a variety of quantitative (8/15), qualitative (5/15), and mixed (2/15) methods. Technologies studied included grab bars and handrails, bidet seats, bed transfer devices, sensor and monitoring systems, social communication systems, and companion robots. Articles identified benefits for reducing stress and workload, while paid caregivers described both positive and negative impacts.

Conclusions:

Literature describing the impact of assistive technology on paid caregivers who work with older adults is limited and uses varied methodologies. Additional research is needed to enable rigorous evaluation of specific technologies and impacts on worker turnover.
Don’t Fear Artificial Intelligence, Question the Business Model: How Surveillance Capitalists Use Media to Invade Privacy, Disrupt Moral Autonomy, and Harm Democracy
Authors: Jones Joseph
Published: February 2024

This paper analyzes the causes, consequences, and logic of surveillance capitalism, delineating how behavioral surplus became the latest form of accumulation and questioning its ethical, legal, and material implications. The purpose of this project is to provide a decisively human response to an otherwise reductive, totalizing political economic system that uses equally reductive technology. Using history, political economy, and media ethics, it shows how surveillance capitalists use artificial intelligence (AI) to disrupt the privacy necessary for identity work and distort the moral autonomy necessary for democratic worldmaking. Exploiting human psychology and emotional vulnerabilities, surveillance capitalists interfere with our ability to become better versions of our personal and collective selves. We must therefore reject surveillance capitalism and embrace a more inconclusive understanding of democracy informed by care. While experts and technocrats can endlessly debate the potential outcomes and possibilities, the challenges of AI and an abusive surveillance capitalist system must ultimately be answered by a caring citizenry with equally resilient social institutions.
Authentic braille literacy development through interdisciplinary instruction and learning
Authors: Farrand Kathleen M , Koehler Karen , Vasquez Ananí
Published: February 2024

Incorporating braille across disciplines and into authentic settings may increase motivation and acquisition. This paper explores the merging of science content instruction with authentic braille literacy development using drama strategies during a summer camp for elementary students with visual impairments and the co-occurring teacher preparation for authentic braille instruction. This study measured braille proficiency in reading and writing and science content knowledge of student participants before and after the weeklong interdisciplinary summer camp. Pre-service teachers of students with visual impairments (TSVIs) that were co-teaching with in-service TSVIs also completed the braille proficiency measures in reading and writing. The interdisciplinary camp experience and culminating museum event described in the present study provides a potential model for how to design interdisciplinary learning experiences for students with visual impairments to develop braille literacy and science content understanding.
The effect of air-free administration of intravenous drugs on microemboli during cardiopulmonary bypass
Authors: den Ouden Amber , Stehouwer Marco C , Geurts Bernd , Hofman Erik , Bruins Peter
Published: February 2024

Objective

During cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), gaseous microemboli (GME) that originate from the extracorporeal circuit are released into the arterial blood stream of the patient. Gaseous microemboli may contribute to adverse outcome after cardiac surgery with CPB. Possibly, air may be collected in the right atrium during induction of anesthesia and released during CPB start. The aim of this study was to assess if the GME load entering the venous line of the CPB circuit could be reduced by training of anesthesia personal in avoiding air introduction during administration of intravenous medication.

Methods

In 94 patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting with CPB, GME number and volume were measured intraoperatively with a bubble counter (BCC300). The quantity and the relationship between GME number and volume in the venous and arterial line were determined in 2 periods before and after education of the anesthesiologists and nurses.

Results

In the venous line no significant differences were observed between numbers and volumes of GME between groups. Comparing patients with low versus high GME load, showed significantly more patients from the intervention group in the low GME-load group, namely 29 versus 18. Administration of medication by anesthesia was confirmed as a clear cause of GME/air-introduction into the venous circulation. Scavenging properties of the CPB circuit including the oxygenator showed a 99.9% reduction of GME.

Conclusions

A wide spread of GME generation during perfusion was present with no difference in generation of GME between groups. Lower GME load observed in patients (intervention group) and examples of air introduction during drug administration suggest that air introduced by anesthesia contributes to the GME load during CPB. Scavenging properties of the CPB circuit contribute very much to patient safety regarding reduction of venous air. Awareness and education create the possibilities for further reduction of GME during cardiopulmonary bypass.
Preparation of nano-CuO@BaSO4 under room temperatures and its application in PA6 composites
Authors: Xu Boren , Yi Chunwang
Published: February 2024

In this work, by simply using barium hydroxide (Ba(OH)2·8H2O) to react with cupric(II) sulfate pentahydrate (CuSO4.5H2O) in methanol under room temperatures, cupric oxide and barium sulfate co-precipitates (CuO@BaSO4) were one-step prepared, and the methanol can be recycled after separating the co-precipitates. The CuO@BaSO4 co-precipitates were then blended with polyamide 6 (PA6) to prepare PA6-CuO@BaSO4 composites and composites fiber via melt extrusion and melt spinning methods to improve the mechanic and antibacterial properties synchronously. The as-prepared CuO@BaSO4 co-precipitates have a regular size of 30–50 nm and are highly compatible with the PA6 matrix. Further investigations disclosed that the CuO@BaSO4 co-precipitates had a good dispersion in the PA6 matrix and synchronously improved the mechanical properties and thermal stability. What’s more, the PA6-CuO@BaSO4 composites showed excellent antibacterial performance and high spinnability. The bactericidal rate reached 100% when adding tiny content (0.24 wt%) of Cu2+ into PA6 fibers.
Feasibility of Evidence-Based Social and Emotional Learning in Prairie Canadian Schools
Authors: Kilborn Kayla , Newton Montgomery Janine , Li Johnson , Shooshtari Shahin , Roy Rachel , Cheri Breanna , Tze Virginia , Gaulke Taryn
Published: February 2024

This study examined opportunities and barriers for implementing evidence-based Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) programs in Prairie Canadian Schools. Educators from Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta completed an online survey on SEL feasibility and reported on five feasibility domains: (1) attitudes about SEL, (2) knowledge about SEL, (3) job stress, (4) resources for implementing SEL, and (5) SEL practices. Results indicated that positive attitudes toward SEL significantly predicted increased perceived feasibility for evidence-based SEL implementation. Additionally, both knowledge and access to resources predicted increased SEL practice by Prairie Canadian educators. Analyses for open-ended responses paralleled quantitative results. Specifically, Canadian educators had positive views about SEL programing, but like previous research conducted in other countries, indicated that they require better access to SEL training, and resources (e.g., more time to plan and teach SEL, funding and program materials). A unique Canadian context-related finding from this study was that some Prairie Canadian educators indicated a paucity of French materials for SEL programs, which impeded implementation. In order to effectively implement evidence-based SEL in Prairie Canadian schools, policy makers must address the indicated barriers for Canadian educators, such as increased SEL training and resources, and easy access to appropriate French materials.