bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Automatic Flood Detection from Sentinel-1 Data Using a Nested UNet Model and a NASA Benchmark Dataset
Authors: Ghosh Binayak , Garg Shagun , Motagh Mahdi , Martinis Sandro 
Published: March 2024

AbstractDuring flood events near real-time, synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellite imagery has proven to be an efficient management tool for disaster management authorities. However, one of the challenges is accurate classification and segmentation of flooded water. A common method of SAR-based flood mapping is binary segmentation by thresholding, but this method is limited due to the effects of backscatter, geographical area, and surface characterstics. Recent advancements in deep learning algorithms for image segmentation have demonstrated excellent potential for improving flood detection. In this paper, we present a deep learning approach with a nested UNet architecture based on a backbone of EfficientNet-B7 by leveraging a publicly available Sentinel‑1 dataset provided jointly by NASA and the IEEE GRSS Committee. The performance of the nested UNet model was compared with several other UNet-based convolutional neural network architectures. The models were trained on flood events from Nebraska and North Alabama in the USA, Bangladesh, and Florence, Italy. Finally, the generalization capacity of the trained nested UNet model was compared to the other architectures by testing on Sentinel‑1 data from flood events of varied geographical regions such as Spain, India, and Vietnam. The impact of using different polarization band combinations of input data on the segmentation capabilities of the nested UNet and other models is also evaluated using Shapley scores. The results of these experiments show that the UNet model architectures perform comparably to the UNet++ with EfficientNet-B7 backbone for both the NASA dataset as well as the other test cases. Therefore, it can be inferred that these models can be trained on certain flood events provided in the dataset and used for flood detection in other geographical areas, thus proving the transferability of these models. However, the effect of polarization still varies across different test cases from around the world in terms of performance; the model trained with the combinations of individual bands, VV and VH, and polarization ratios gives the best results.
How to use literature in political theory: five questions of methodology in ‘politics and literature’
Authors: Buchholz Hans-Ludwig 
Published: March 2024

AbstractTwo influential but strangely separate bodies of research have emerged in the field of Politics and Literature. Either political theorists write about literature in a theoretical way by describing how literature enriches our understanding of politics, or they interpret individual works of literature. Comprehensive methodological accounts that aim to connect these two research literatures do not exist. In order to start such a methodological debate, the article will ask what methodology means in Politics and Literature. It will identify five methodological questions, ranging from how to read literary elements of style and how to deal with fictionality to what else to do with literature apart from interpretation. Any set of answers to these questions can be called a methodology in the field, and every methodology must find answers to all five questions.
Interannual Variation of Half-Hourly Extreme Precipitation in Africa: The Assessment of the Warmest Decade (2011–2020) Since the Beginning of Observations
Authors: Ncipha Xolile , Kruger Andries , Sibali Linda 
Published: March 2024

AbstractAfrica is experiencing widespread extreme precipitation. However, the continent remains understudied regarding extreme precipitation variation, particularly at high temporal resolution. This study assessed the changes in spatial distribution, frequency, and intensity of half-hourly violent precipitation (≥ 50 mm/h) in Africa during 2011–2020. The data were sourced from the Integrated MultisatellitE Retrievals for Global Precipitation Measurement (IMERG) program. The results reflect that the 50–60 mm/h precipitation category was the most densely spatially distributed with less-discernable interannual changes. There was a strong interannual variation in the spatial distribution of the 60–70 mm/h and ≥ 70 mm/h precipitation categories. There was a general decrease in the frequency of occurrence of violent precipitation in all regions, except in North Africa (NA). Among the study regions, NA had the broadest precipitation intensity distribution extended to high values and consequently, on average, the most intense violent precipitation, followed by Southern Africa (SA) and Southwest Indian Ocean (SWIO). The regions in the tropics, i.e., West Africa (WA), Central Africa (CA), and East Africa (EA), had a relatively narrow intense violent precipitation distribution. The results further illustrate that the strength of climate variability modes has a strong influence in the distribution, frequency, and intensity of violent precipitation over the continent particularly the ≥ 70 mm/h precipitation category. This study underscores a need for a strengthened capacity in forecasting climate variability modes impacting on Africa, augmentation of continental precipitation observation network, and improved extreme precipitation adaptation infrastructure.
Shifting the language of ‘invasion’ ecology: two-eyed seeing as a framework for discourse regarding introduced species
Authors: Lane-Clark Shelby Nicole , Gagnon Valoree S. , Bal Tara L. 
Published: March 2024

AbstractDiscourse used in the field of invasion ecology has significant impacts on society's perception, yet communication related to “invasives” is rife with problematic, exclusionary language. We provide potential solutions, including a repositioned perspective that may facilitate better relationships with the natural world by applying the two-eyed seeing framework. Our discussion calls for a paradigm shift for deeper understandings of human and more-than-human relationships. Ultimately, we advocate for respectful, considerate, and intentional language and stewardship.
Is the anterior approach still superior to posterior correction in AIS regarding correction, fusion levels and kyphosis when modern posterior systems are used?
Authors: Hammad Ahmed , Eberl Johanna , Wirries André , Geiger Florian 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Purpose
The aim of our study is to compare anterior and posterior corrections of thoracic (Lenke I) and lumbar (Lenke V) curves when modern posterior pedicle screw systems with vertebral derotation techniques are used. Curves that could not be corrected with both systems were excluded.

Methods
A thoracic group (N = 56) of Lenke I AIS patients (18 anterior and 38 posterior) and a lumbar group (N = 42) of Lenke V patients (14 anterior and 28 posterior) with similar curves < 65° were identified.

Results
Thoracic group The mean postoperative correction (POC) was 68 ± 13.4% in the anterior and 72 ± 10.5% in the posterior group. The postoperative change in thoracic kyphosis was +4° and +5° respectively. The median length of fusion was eight segments in the posterior and seven segments in the anterior groups. In 89% the LIV was EV or shorter in the anterior, and in 71% of the posterior corrections.
Lumbar group The mean POC was 75 ± 18.3% (anterior) and 72 ± 8.5% (posterior). The postoperative gain in lumbar lordosis was 0.8° (anterior) and 4° (posterior). The median length of fusion was five segments in both groups and there was no difference in relation of the LIV to the EV.

Conclusion
With modern implants and derotation techniques, the posterior approach can achieve similar coronal correction, apical derotation and thoracic kyphosis with similar length of fusion and better lumbar lordosis restoration.
Creativity in early childhood: how educators from Australia and Italy are documenting the creative thought processes of young children
Authors: Leggett Nicole 
Published: March 2024

AbstractCreative and critical thinking, problem-solving and decision-making have attracted increasing interest over the last decade as key twenty-first century skills for education. While the Australian Curriculum implies that creativity should be applied to all learning domains, the Early Years Learning Framework for birth to 5 years (EYLF) largely relegates creativity to children’s expression through the creative arts. The world-renowned Reggio Emilia approach places creativity at the centre of its curriculum not as a creative product, but as a cognitive process. This paper draws upon recent research with early childhood teachers from NSW, Australia and Northern Italy who formed sister-centre relationships to share their perspectives on children’s creative thinking. Through email exchange, educators from each country sent three examples of centre documentation they believed demonstrated children’s creative thinking, with an invitation for a response from the sister centre. Vygotsky’s creative imagination theory, Malaguzzi and Rodari’s philosophies of creativity, imagination and education, provide theoretical frameworks to explain the creative processes of children. Findings suggest that the Australian educators in this study demonstrated the practice of responsiveness to children in co-constructing factual knowledge, while the Italian educators focused more on the processes of children’s thinking, with a view of the child as an imaginative and creative being. This paper argues that if creative thinking is an essential skill for lifelong learning, then more attention for how educators in early childhood education contexts are incorporating this into practice is needed.
Safety alert on scaffolding practices in Hong Kong
Authors: Chow W. K. 
Published: March 2024

AbstractThere are many incidents involving scaffolding which might lead to serious occupational safety consequences. A poor scaffold erected along public access in Hong Kong is taken as an example to alert the hidden hazards. This indicates inadequacy in safety management with possible violation of the Occupational Safety and Health Ordinance and possible violation of at least three local fire codes of practice, including Means of Escape, Means of Access and Fire Service Installations Codes. Blocking public access for fire exits would lead to hazardous consequences. Occupants might not be able to escape safely and efficiently, and firemen might not be able to access the fire spot quickly. These would lead to unnecessary injury and property damage, court case, insurance claim, and so on. It is obvious that fire safety management should be implemented properly to ensure proper monitoring of the scaffold. However, current control appears to be too loose. Safety culture should be promoted by stakeholders with tighter government control, inspection and penalty. The new penalty scheme of the Occupational Safety and Health Ordinance is a good starting point.
PDMP Monte Carlo methods for piecewise smooth densities
Authors: Chevallier Augustin , Power Sam , Wang Andi Q. , Fearnhead Paul 
Published: March 2024

AbstractThere has been substantial interest in developing Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithms based on piecewise deterministic Markov processes. However, existing algorithms can only be used if the target distribution of interest is differentiable everywhere. The key to adapting these algorithms so that they can sample from densities with discontinuities is to define appropriate dynamics for the process when it hits a discontinuity. We present a simple condition for the transition of the process at a discontinuity which can be used to extend any existing sampler for smooth densities, and give specific choices for this transition which work with popular algorithms such as the bouncy particle sampler, the coordinate sampler, and the zigzag process. Our theoretical results extend and make rigorous arguments that have been presented previously, for instance constructing samplers for continuous densities restricted to a bounded domain, and we present a version of the zigzag process that can work in such a scenario. Our novel approach to deriving the invariant distribution of a piecewise deterministic Markov process with boundaries may be of independent interest.
A multi-shot target wheel assembly for high-repetition-rate, laser-driven proton acceleration
Authors: Peñas J. , Bembibre A. , Cortina-Gil D. , Martín L. , Reija A. , Ruiz C. , Seimetz M. , Alejo A. , Benlliure J. 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
A multi-shot target assembly and automatic alignment procedure for laser–plasma proton acceleration at high repetition rate are introduced. The assembly is based on a multi-target rotating wheel capable of hosting more than 5000 targets, mounted on a 3D motorized stage to allow rapid replenishment and alignment of the target material between laser irradiations. The automatic alignment procedure consists of a detailed mapping of the impact positions at the target surface prior to the irradiation that ensures stable operation of the target, which alongside the purpose-built design of the target wheel, enables operation at rates up to 10 Hz. Stable and continuous laser-driven proton acceleration at 10 Hz is demonstrated, with observed cut-off energy stability about 15%.
Microplastics alter soil carbon cycling: Effects on carbon storage, CO2 and CH4 emission and microbial community
Authors: Chang Sha , Zhou Aoyu , Hua Zhuyao , Meng Han , Zhu Fengxiao , Li Shiyin , He Huan 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are carbon-rich polymers that are ubiquitous in the environment. With the increase of plastic production, microplastic pollution may be exacerbated and result in significant changes in microbial communities and biogeochemical processes such as carbon cycling, eventually impacting greenhouse gas emission and carbon storage in terrestrial ecosystems. However, current research on the effect of MPs on soil carbon cycling is still limited, and there is a lack of systematic review of the scattered information obtained from previous studies. Accordingly, this review provides a systematic overview of the current knowledge on the effects of MPs on soil carbon cycling and gives future research suggestions. Emerging evidence indicates that MPs could affect soil carbon stability and CO2 and CH4 emission by modifying soil physicochemical and microbiological properties; though biodegradable MPs often exhibit a greater effect than nonbiodegradable ones, the specific effects are highly dependent on plastic type, size and concentration. The specific mechanisms of MPs’ impact on soil carbon cycles remain elusive, which are discussed mainly from the perspective of microbial changes, including microbial biomass, microbial community composition, and key enzymes and functional genes associated with carbon metabolism. Further research is needed to elucidate whether MPs have a positive priming effect on soil carbon decomposition and the biotic and abiotic mechanisms involved. This review paper helps researchers gain a clearer picture of how and through which way MPs impact carbon cycling in soil ecosystems.
Who benefits from indirect prevention and treatment of depression using an online intervention for insomnia? Results from an individual-participant data meta-analysis
Authors: Thielecke Janika , Kuper Paula , Lehr Dirk , Schuurmans Lea , Harrer Mathias , Ebert David D. , Cuijpers Pim , Behrendt Dörte , Brückner Hanna , Horvath Hanne , Riper Heleen , Buntrock Claudia 
Published: March 2024

AbstractBackgroundMajor depressive disorder (MDD) is highly prevalent and burdensome for individuals and society. While there are psychological interventions able to prevent and treat MDD, uptake remains low. To overcome structural and attitudinal barriers, an indirect approach of using online insomnia interventions seems promising because insomnia is less stigmatized, predicts MDD onset, is often comorbid and can outlast MDD treatment. This individual-participant-data meta-analysis evaluated the potential of the online insomnia interventionGET.ON Recoveryas an indirect treatment to reduce depressive symptom severity (DSS) and potential MDD onset across a range of participant characteristics.MethodsEfficacy on depressive symptom outcomes was evaluated using multilevel regression models controlling for baseline severity. To identify potential effect moderators, clinical, sociodemographic, and work-related variables were investigated using univariable moderation and random-forest methodology before developing a multivariable decision tree.ResultsIPD were obtained from four of seven eligible studies (N= 561); concentrating on workers with high work-stress. DSS was significantly lower in the intervention group both at post-assessment (d= −0.71 [95% CI−0.92 to −0.51]) and at follow-up (d= −0.84 [95% CI −1.11 to −0.57]). In the subsample (n= 121) without potential MDD at baseline, there were no significant group differences in onset of potential MDD. Moderation analyses revealed that effects on DSS differed significantly across baseline severity groups with effect sizes betweend= −0.48 and −0.87 (post) andd= − 0.66 to −0.99 (follow-up), while no other sociodemographic, clinical, or work-related characteristics were significant moderators.ConclusionsAn online insomnia intervention is a promising approach to effectively reduce DSS in a preventive and treatment setting.
Association of Alcohol Consumption with Cognition and Functionality in Older Adults Aged 75+ Years: The Pietà Study
Authors: de Almeida Mariana Alves , Barbosa Maira Tonidandel , Resende Elisa de Paula França , Carvalho Viviane Amaral , Santos Ana Paula Borges , Machado João Carlos Barbosa , Lara Vivian Proença , Gomes Karina Braga , Machado Thais Helena , Caramelli Paulo 
Published: March 2024

AbstractThe relationship between alcohol consumption and cognition is still controversial. This is a cross-sectional population-based study conducted in Caeté (MG), Brazil, where 602 individuals aged 75+ years, 63.6% female, and with a mean education of 2.68 years, were submitted to thorough clinical assessments and categorized according to the number of alcoholic beverages consumed weekly. The prevalence rates of previous and current alcohol consumption were 34.6% and 12.3%, respectively. No association emerged between cognitive diagnoses and current/previous alcohol consumption categories. Considering current alcohol intake as a dichotomous variable, the absence of alcohol consumption was associated with dementia (OR = 2.34; 95%CI: 1.39–3.90) and worse functionality (p = 0.001). Previous consumption of cachaça (sugar cane liquor) increased the risk of dementia by 2.52 (95%CI: 1.25–5.04). The association between the consumption of cachaça and dementia diagnosis has not been described before.
Buildings-in-buildings: museological theatres of preservation and display
Authors: Paine Ashley 
Published: March 2024

The Hill House by Charles Rennie Mackintosh (1902-04) is widely considered a seminal work of early modern architecture. Today, after more than a century of saturating Scottish weather, the house is crumbling from water damage and needing renovation. In 2019, the first stage of works to stabilise the house and rectify its damp walls began in radical fashion with the ’Hill House Box’ by London-based architects Carmody Groarke. Like an oversized architectural raincoat, this roof and chainmesh-walled structure completely encases the house, allowing it to dry out before conservation works can begin. The design also incorporates a series of walkways through the interstitial volume, enabling visitors to observe the old building from new vantage points during its renovation. As such, the enclosure not only forms a protective case, but effectively turns the building - and its conservation - into a museological exhibit.The architectural interest of the Hill House Box, however, lies in its encounter with Mackintosh’s temporally and stylistically distinct design, and the perverse strategy of placing one building inside another. For this essay, the Hill House and its new box highlight the underexamined architecture of buildings-in-buildings and, in particular, the creation of spaces that are neither interior nor exterior, but both, simultaneously. Drawing upon a diverse array of buildings and texts, this paper will attempt to outline a theoretical framework through which such composite constructions might be better understood. In particular, it will argue that, while there are countless ways that buildings have historically become encased within other buildings, it is within museums and sites of preservation, like the Hill House Box, that these fantastic architectural encounters find their most exciting and emphatic expressions.
Obesity risk in young adults from the Jerusalem Perinatal Study (JPS): the contribution of polygenic risk and early life exposure
Authors: Hochner Hagit , Butterman Rachely , Margaliot Ido , Friedlander Yechiel , Linial Michal 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background/Objectives
The effects of early life exposures on offspring life-course health are well established. This study assessed whether adding early socio-demographic and perinatal variables to a model based on polygenic risk score (PRS) improves prediction of obesity risk.

Methods
We used the Jerusalem Perinatal study (JPS) with data at birth and body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) measured at age 32. The PRS was constructed using over 2.1M common SNPs identified in genome-wide association study (GWAS) for BMI. Linear and logistic models were applied in a stepwise approach. We first examined the associations between genetic variables and obesity-related phenotypes (e.g., BMI and WC). Secondly, socio-demographic variables were added and finally perinatal exposures, such as maternal pre-pregnancy BMI (mppBMI) and gestational weight gain (GWG) were added to the model. Improvement in prediction of each step was assessed using measures of model discrimination (area under the curve, AUC), net reclassification improvement (NRI) and integrated discrimination improvement (IDI).

Results
One standard deviation (SD) change in PRS was associated with a significant increase in BMI (β = 1.40) and WC (β = 2.45). These associations were slightly attenuated (13.7–14.2%) with the addition of early life exposures to the model. Also, higher mppBMI was associated with increased offspring BMI (β = 0.39) and WC (β = 0.79) (p < 0.001). For obesity (BMI ≥ 30) prediction, the addition of early socio-demographic and perinatal exposures to the PRS model significantly increased AUC from 0.69 to 0.73. At an obesity risk threshold of 15%, the addition of early socio-demographic and perinatal exposures to the PRS model provided a significant improvement in reclassification of obesity (NRI, 0.147; 95% CI 0.068–0.225).

Conclusions
Inclusion of early life exposures, such as mppBMI and maternal smoking, to a model based on PRS improves obesity risk prediction in an Israeli population-sample.