bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Degradation of Film and Rigid Bioplastics During the Thermophilic Phase and the Maturation Phase of Simulated Composting
Authors: Ruggero Federica , Onderwater Rob C. A. , Carretti Emiliano , Roosa Stéphanie , Benali Samira , Raquez Jean-Marie , Gori Riccardo , Lubello Claudio , Wattiez Ruddy 
Published: March 2021

AbstractThe recent regulations, which impose limits on single use plastics and packaging, are encouraging the development of bioplastics market. Some bioplastics are labelled as compostable with the organic waste according to a specific certification (EN 13432), however the conditions of industrial composting plants are generally less favourable than the standard test conditions. Aiming at studying the effective degradation of marketable bioplastic products under composting, the current research stresses novel elements which can strongly influence bioplastics degradation: the simulation of industrial composting conditions and the thickness of bioplastic products, ranging between 50 and 500 µm. The research approaches these critical aspects simulating a composting test of 20 days of thermophilic phase followed by 40 days of maturation phase, on starch-based polymer Mater-Bi® (MB), polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT), polylactic acid (PLA) of different thickness. Conventional low density polyethylene (LDPE) was introduced as negative control. An overall study with Fourier Transform InfraRed (FTIR), ThermoGravimetric Analysis (TGA), Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and visual inspections was applied. Results highlighted that MB film presented the highest degradation rate, 45 ± 4.7% in terms of weight loss. Both MB and PBAT were subjected to physico-chemical features change, while LDPE presented slight degradation signs. The most critical observations have been done for PLA, which is strongly influenced both by thickness and thermophilic phase duration, shorter than the EN 13432 conditions.
Philosophical empathy (in the Style of Merleau-Ponty)
Authors: Ratcliffe Matthew 
Published: March 2021

AbstractIs there a sense in which we can be said to empathize with a philosophical position and, if so, what does empathy consist of here? Drawing on themes in the work of Maurice Merleau-Ponty, I sketch an account of the relationship between philosophical language and philosophical thought, according to which the task of understanding, evaluating, and building upon an explicit philosophical position can involve engaging with the experiential world of its author. If accepted, this account has broader implications for how we conceive of both empathy and philosophical thought.
The Grounding of Identities
Authors: Azzano Lorenzo , Carrara Massimiliano 
Published: March 2021

AbstractA popular stance amongst philosophers is one according to which, in Lewis’ words, “identity is utterly simple and unproblematic”. Building from Lewis’ famous passage on the matter, we reconstruct, and then criticize, an argument to the conclusion that identities cannot be grounded. With the help of relatively uncontroversial assumption concerning identity facts, we show that not all identities are equi-fundamental, and, on the contrary, some appear to be provided potential grounding bases using two-level identity criteria. Further potential grounding bases for identities are presented. Identity might be utterly simple and unproblematic, but this is not sufficient to conclude that identities are ungrounded, or fundamental.
A Model to Investigate the Impact of Farm Practice on Antimicrobial Resistance in UK Dairy Farms
Authors: Lanyon Christopher W. , King John R. , Stekel Dov J. , Gomes Rachel L. 
Published: March 2021

AbstractThe ecological and human health impact of antibiotic use and the related antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in animal husbandry is poorly understood. In many countries, there has been considerable pressure to reduce overall antibiotic use in agriculture or to cease or minimise use of human critical antibiotics. However, a more nuanced approach would consider the differential impact of use of different antibiotic classes; for example, it is not known whether reduced use of bacteriostatic or bacteriolytic classes of antibiotics would be of greater value. We have developed an ordinary differential equation model to investigate the effects of farm practice on the spread and persistence of AMR in the dairy slurry tank environment. We model the chemical fate of bacteriolytic and bacteriostatic antibiotics within the slurry and their effect on a population of bacteria, which are capable of resistance to both types of antibiotic. Through our analysis, we find that changing the rate at which a slurry tank is emptied may delay the proliferation of multidrug-resistant bacteria by up to five years depending on conditions. This finding has implications for farming practice and the policies that influence waste management practices. We also find that, within our model, the development of multidrug resistance is particularly sensitive to the use of bacteriolytic antibiotics, rather than bacteriostatic antibiotics, and this may be cause for controlling the usage of bacteriolytic antibiotics in agriculture.
MRI-based radiomic feature analysis of end-stage liver disease for severity stratification
Authors: Nitsch Jennifer , Sack Jordan , Halle Michael W. , Moltz Jan H. , Wall April , Rutherford Anna E. , Kikinis Ron , Meine Hans 
Published: March 2021

Abstract

Purpose

We aimed to develop a predictive model of disease severity for cirrhosis using MRI-derived radiomic features of the liver and spleen and compared it to the existing disease severity metrics of MELD score and clinical decompensation. The MELD score is compiled solely by blood parameters, and so far, it was not investigated if extracted image-based features have the potential to reflect severity to potentially complement the calculated score.

Methods

This was a retrospective study of eligible patients with cirrhosis ($$n=90$$

n
=
90

) who underwent a contrast-enhanced MR screening protocol for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) screening at a tertiary academic center from 2015 to 2018. Radiomic feature analyses were used to train four prediction models for assessing the patient’s condition at time of scan: MELD score, MELD score $$\ge $$
≥
9 (median score of the cohort), MELD score $$\ge $$
≥
15 (the inflection between the risk and benefit of transplant), and clinical decompensation. Liver and spleen segmentations were used for feature extraction, followed by cross-validated random forest classification.

Results

Radiomic features of the liver and spleen were most predictive of clinical decompensation (AUC 0.84), which the MELD score could predict with an AUC of 0.78. Using liver or spleen features alone had slightly lower discrimination ability (AUC of 0.82 for liver and AUC of 0.78 for spleen features only), although this was not statistically significant on our cohort. When radiomic prediction models were trained to predict continuous MELD scores, there was poor correlation. When stratifying risk by splitting our cohort at the median MELD 9 or at MELD 15, our models achieved AUCs of 0.78 or 0.66, respectively.

Conclusions

We demonstrated that MRI-based radiomic features of the liver and spleen have the potential to predict the severity of liver cirrhosis, using decompensation or MELD status as imperfect surrogate measures for disease severity.
A more efficient cutting planes approach for the green vehicle routing problem with capacitated alternative fuel stations
Authors: Bruglieri Maurizio , Mancini Simona , Pisacane Ornella 
Published: March 2021

AbstractThe Green Vehicle Routing Problem with Capacitated Alternative Fuel Stations assumes that, at each station, the number of vehicles simultaneously refueling cannot exceed the number of available pumps. The state-of-the-art solution method, based on the generation of all feasible non-dominated paths, performs well only with up to 2 pumps. In fact, it needs cloning the paths between every pair of pumps. To overcome this issue, in this paper, we propose new path-based MILP models without cloning paths, for both the scenario with private stations (i.e., owned by the fleet manager) and that with public stations. Then, a more efficient cutting plane approach is designed for addressing both the scenarios. Numerical results, obtained considering a set of benchmark instances ad hoc generated for this work, show both the efficiency and the effectiveness of this new cutting plane approach proposed. Finally, a sensitivity analysis, carried out by varying the number of customers to be served and their distribution, shows very good performances of the proposed approach.
Estimation of electrical resistivity using artificial neural networks: a case study from Lublin Basin, SE Poland
Authors: Ważny Jakub , Stefaniuk Michał , Cygal Adam 
Published: March 2021

AbstractArtificial neural networks method (ANNs) is a common estimation tool used for geophysical applications. Considering borehole data, when the need arises to supplement a missing well log interval or whole logging—ANNs provide a reliable solution. Supervised training of the network on a reliable set of borehole data values with further application of this network on unknown wells allows creation of synthetic values of missing geophysical parameters, e.g., resistivity. The main assumptions for boreholes are: representation of similar geological conditions and the use of similar techniques of well data collection. In the analyzed case, a set of Multilayer Perceptrons were trained on five separate chronostratigraphic intervals of borehole, considered as training data. The task was to predict missing deep laterolog (LLD) logging in a borehole representing the same sequence of layers within the Lublin Basin area. Correlation between well logs data exceeded 0.8. Subsequently, magnetotelluric parametric soundings were modeled and inverted on both boreholes. Analysis showed that congenial Occam 1D models had better fitting of TM mode of MT data in each case. Ipso facto, synthetic LLD log could be considered as a basis for geophysical and geological interpretation. ANNs provided solution for supplementing datasets based on this analytical approach.
Enhancing synergies in nature’s contributions to people in socio-ecological production landscapes and seascapes: lessons learnt from ten site-based projects in biodiversity hotspots
Authors: Takahashi Yasuo , Park Kylie J. , Natori Yoji , Dublin Devon , Dasgupta Rajarshi , Miwa Koji 
Published: March 2021

AbstractTrade-offs in nature’s contributions to people (NCP), particularly in material NCP versus regulating and non-material NCP, continue to rise. Socio-ecological production landscapes and seascapes (SEPLS) represent harmonious human–nature interactions resulting in positive outcomes for both biodiversity and human well-being, thus implying synergies among multiple NCP are possible. In case studies of ten projects selected from biodiversity hotspots under the GEF-Satoyama Project, we investigated whether and how synergies in NCP exist within SEPLS and explored management interventions that enhanced these synergies. Using the responses to an online survey completed by project managers from each project and drawing on project reports, we identified a wide array of NCP deriving from various ecosystems within the project SEPLS. Habitat and food provisions, both attributed to multiple ecosystem types, were key components of the NCP bundles present in the project SEPLS. Among the management options that enhanced NCP in SEPLS were food-centred approaches entailing organic agriculture, eco-labelling, branding and improved agricultural practices. Habitat-centred approaches included participatory biodiversity monitoring, ecosystem restoration, co-management and conservation agreements with landowners. Synergies in NCP were generated by integrating these interventions with enabling governance structures and through community empowerment. If combined with mapping and modelling techniques, identifying NCP bundles in SEPLS from local people’s perspectives as we outlined in this study, would help to better contextualise the analysis of NCP bundles. Such contextualised NCP bundle analyses will help field practitioners understand how to enhance synergies between multiple NCP and the broader conservation community could access untapped NCP knowledge.
Brainstem substructures and cognition in prodromal Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Dutt Shubir , Li Yanrong , Mather Mara , Nation Daniel A. ,   for the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: March 2021

AbstractNeuropathological research suggests the tau pathology of Alzheimer’s disease may originate in brainstem nuclei, yet it remains unknown whether tau-mediated degeneration of brainstem nuclei influences cognitive impairment in prodromal Alzheimer’s disease. The present study examined cognitive domains impacted in prodromal Alzheimer’s disease and brainstem substructure volume in cognitively normal older adults (n = 814) and those with mild cognitive impairment (n = 542). Subsamples of cognitively normal (n = 112) and mild cognitive impairment (n = 202) also had cerebrospinal fluid Alzheimer’s disease biomarker characterization. Region-of-interest and voxel-level analyses related whole brainstem, midbrain, pons, and locus coeruleus volumes to cognition with multiple linear regression models corrected for age, sex, education, apolipoprotein-ε4 carrier status, and MRI magnet strength. Within mild cognitive impairment participants, smaller midbrain and locus coeruleus volumes were significantly related to poorer performance on tests of attention and executive function, and the relationship between locus coeruleus volume and executive abilities remained significant in the mild cognitive impairment subsample with biomarker-confirmed Alzheimer’s disease. A brainstem-masked voxel-wise regression further demonstrated an association between locus coeruleus volume and executive abilities. Brainstem volumes were not significantly related to memory processes. Study findings implicate midbrain and locus coeruleus volume in attention and executive deficits in mild cognitive impairment. Together with prior neuropathological studies, our data suggest a link between Alzheimer’s disease-related degeneration of brainstem nuclei and cognitive deficits in prodromal Alzheimer’s disease.
Potential of small-scale and structurally diverse short-rotation coppice as habitat for large and medium-sized mammals
Authors: Zitzmann Felix , Reich Michael , Schaarschmidt Frank 
Published: March 2021

AbstractWe surveyed occurrence and activity of large and medium-sized mammals on three experimental short-rotation coppice (SRC) and three afforestations by camera trapping. Both habitat types were surveyed simultaneously in spring. Additional wintertime surveys were performed on the SRC to consider seasonal aspects of habitat utilisation. In spring, SRC and afforestations were predominantly used by the same species. European hare (Lepus europaeus) and roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) were the most active species across all sites. Additionally, the European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) showed intense activity on one SRC site. Activity of carnivorous and omnivorous species was comparatively low in both habitat types, but even lower on the SRC. The only forest-associated species (European badgerMeles meles), detected on all afforestations, was absent from the SRC. In winter, the surveyed SRC were used by the same species as in spring. Most species showed similar activity on the SRC in both seasons. We conclude that small-scale and structurally diverse SRC provide suitable habitat, in different seasons, especially for herbivorous mammals associated with farmland and forest-ecotones rather than forest species. The extent to which our results can be generalised to large-scale commercial SRC is unclear. However, the results indicate that SRC can be managed in a manner compatible with wildlife and may then have a habitat function for mammals comparable to that of young afforestations. Creation of within-plantation heterogeneity can be a suitable measure to improve habitat quality and should, therefore, be considered in the design and management of SRC.
Effect of coastal dune restoration on the population of endangered Mongolian racerunner (Eremias argus) in the Republic of Korea
Authors: Chang Min Ho , Song Jae Young , Koo Kyo Soung 
Published: March 2021

AbstractThe endangered species Mongolian racerunner (Eremias Argus), with a limited distribution in South Korea, is found only in sand dunes near waterside and forests. Therefore, species trends in this particular habitat are directly affected by habitat contamination and destruction. In this study, we examined the effects of coastal sand dune restoration on the distribution and population of E. argus. We conducted a field survey in Baramarye special protection zone, called Baramarye Coast, a part of the Taeanhaean National Park, during April and June 2016. We searched and recorded the location of E. argus and tagged them using the toe clipping method. The size of the E. argus population was estimated using the Peterson method. After the restoration of coastal sand dunes in Baramarye Coast, the population size of E. argus increased by 126–137 (21.1–55.7%) compared with that in 2008. The home range of E. argus in coastal sand dunes was significantly expanded by 4.8-fold for 95% Kernel density (KD) and 3.6-fold for 50% KD compared with that in 2008. Moreover, we confirmed that the distribution of E. argus was expanded to the restored area. Our study showed that in situ conservation is effective for endangered E. argus, distributed in particular environments such as coastal region. This study provides one more reason why coastal region must be conserved.
Perfectionism and community-identity integration: the mediating role of shame, guilt and self-esteem
Authors: Piotrowski Konrad , Bojanowska Agnieszka , Nowicka Aleksandra , Janasek Bartosz 
Published: March 2021

AbstractRecent years have been marked by a rise in perfectionism in developed countries. Studies have shown that dimensions of perfectionism are related to the way people handle identity crises, whose successful resolution leads to finding a place within the adult community. In the present study, we aimed to show that two dimensions of perfectionism – perfectionistic strivings and perfectionistic concerns – are related to the outcomes of identity formation and that these relationships are mediated by shame and guilt-proneness, and self-esteem. A path mediation model showed that shame and self-esteem fully mediate the relationship between two dimensions of perfectionism and community-identity. These findings have both theoretical and practical implications. Firstly, they show the mechanism by which perfectionism may be related to identity stage resolution. Secondly, our results support the distinction between perfectionistic strivings expressing drive towards excellence, and perfectionistic concerns expressing fear of failure and fear of being judged in identity studies. This in turn may contribute to more fitting and nuanced psychotherapeutic interventions, as it justifies the application of psychotherapeutic tools aimed at reducing perfectionistic concerns and enhancing perfectionistic strivings.
Neuronale Netze und Zeitreihenansätze zur Vorhersage des auslösenden Faktors in der privaten Krankenversicherung
Authors: Avdullai Fatlinda , Korn Ralf , Hoben Hans-Martin 
Published: March 2021

ZusammenfassungDie Möglichkeit einer Prämienanpassung in der deutschen PKV ist vom Wert des sogenannten auslösenden Faktors abhängig, der mittels einer linearen Extrapolation der Schadenquotienten der vergangenen drei Jahre berechnet wird. Seine frühzeitige, verlässliche Vorhersage ist aus Sicht des Risikomanagements von großer Bedeutung. Wir untersuchen deshalb vielfältige Vorhersageansätze, die von klassischen Zeitreihenansätzen und Regression über neuronale Netze bis hin zu hybriden Modellen reichen. Während bei den klassischen Methoden Regression mit ARIMA-Fehlern am besten abschneidet, zeigt ein neuronales Netz, das mit Zeitreihenvorhersage kombiniert oder auf desaisonalisierten und trendbereinigten Daten trainiert wurde, das insgesamt beste Verhalten.
Impacts of Phosphorous Source on Organic Acid Production and Heterotrophic Bioleaching of Rare Earth Elements and Base Metals from Spent Nickel-Metal-Hydride Batteries
Authors: Rasoulnia Payam , Barthen Robert , Valtonen Kati , Lakaniemi Aino-Maija 
Published: March 2021

AbstractThis study investigated heterotrophic bioleaching of rare earth elements (REEs) and base metals from spent nickel-metal-hydride (NiMH) batteries. Furthermore, the impacts of phosphorous source [Ca3(PO4)2, KH2PO4 and K2HPO4] and its concentration on organic acid production by Gluconobacter oxydans and Streptomyces pilosus were evaluated. Phosphorous source affected microbial acid production and metal leaching. Among the studied phosphorous sources, use of K2HPO4 resulted in highest organic acid production by both bacteria. Increasing K2HPO4 concentration from 2.7 to 27 mM enhanced pyruvic acid production by S. pilosus from 2.2 to 10.7 mM. However, no metal was leached from the spent NiMH batteries with S. pilosus using either one-step, two-step or spent-medium bioleaching. With G. oxydans, highest gluconic acid concentration of 45.0 mM was produced at the lowest K2HPO4 concentration of 2.7 mM. When using two-step bioleaching with G. oxydans, higher leaching efficiencies were obtained for base metals (88.0% vs. 68.0% Fe, 41.5% vs. 35.5% Co, 18.5% vs 16.5% Ni), while more REEs were leached using spent-medium bioleaching (9.0% vs. 6.0% total REEs). With both bioleaching methods, base metals leaching was faster than that of REEs. Surplus of phosphorous should be avoided in bioleaching cultures as precipitation especially with REEs is possible.
Graphic Abstract