bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Did the Bank of England’s Quantitative Easing Programme Become Fiscally Wasteful?
Authors: Bleaney Michael 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
In the period of central bank independence since 1997, the level of UK nominal interest rates has been driven almost entirely by real rates as reflected in the market for index-linked government bonds. These bonds offered a yield of + 4% in the 1980s, falling steadily to below -2% in late 2019, and only recovered somewhat in 2022, with long bond yields closely following short bond yields. The Bank of England doubled its purchases of bonds through its Quantitative Easing (QE) programme in 2020–21 at significantly negative real interest rates, taking up almost all of the increased supply associated with the massively increased budget deficit during the Covid-19 pandemic. Neither the Bank nor the Government bothered about the likely eventual fiscal cost, which rose quite steeply at the margin to the extent that the QE purchases had their intended effect of depressing bond yields. Much, but not all, of the blame for this lies with the Government, since under independence it is the Government that defines what the Bank should take into account in making its decisions about monetary policy. The issue of the eventual fiscal cost of QE is also of concern in the Euro Area and the United States.
Multi-band reflective metasurface for efficient linear and circular polarization conversion
Authors: Zafar Jamal , Khan Humayun Zubair , Jabbar Abdul , Kazim Jalil ur Rehman , Ur Rehman Masood , Siddiqui Adil Masood , Abbasi Qammer H. , Imran Muhammad Ali 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
This paper introduces a novel reflective metasurface for efficient polarization conversion in the X, Ku, and K bands. Through rigorous simulations and experimental validation, high polarization conversion ratios (PCR) exceeding 90% were achieved, even at incidence angles up to

$$45^\circ$$

45
∘

. Superior performance in the axial ratio (AR) and ellipticity values was demonstrated, showcasing the versatility of the designed metasurface in linear-to-linear and linear-to-circular polarization conversions. Comparative analysis against existing metasurfaces revealed the superiority of the proposed design in polarization conversion, particularly in Linear polarization, left-hand circular polarization, and right-hand circular polarization scenarios. The experimental results closely align with simulation outcomes, with minor discrepancies attributed to fabrication imperfections and antenna misalignments. This study advances metasurface-based polarization converters, offering promising applications in wireless communication, radar systems, quantum optics, and sensing technologies.
The application of a mind, brain and education approach to the Literacy for Women in Africa programme and recommendations for practitioners
Authors: Rogers Cathy Jane , Knowland Victoria C. P. , Vitikainen Ari , Gondwe Patrick , Thomas Michael S. C. 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
A mind, brain and education (MBE) approach applies the best evidence regarding how people learn to real classroom settings. Much of the work in the field to date has involved child learners, but MBE is increasingly turning to the study of adult education, supported by a growing understanding of how adults and children differ in their learning styles. MBE’s systematic, evidence-driven interdisciplinary approach has much to offer the field of adult literacy. The Literacy for Women in Africa (LWA) programme in Malawi seeks to improve and develop its provision for adult learners using MBE’s interdisciplinary, evidence-based approach. This article reports on that programme, showing how its design and future development have benefited from the MBE framework. The authors suggest that the field of adult literacy could gain from the development of a strong, shared, scientific evidence base which allows all programme practitioners to benefit from the best knowledge available. The authors offer their experience with the LWA programme as a small contribution towards that goal. It is their hope that this article will be of use to those involved in the development, design and implementation of adult literacy programmes, particularly in the Global South.
Caring About Our Own Epistemic Capacities qua Responsible Citizens
Authors: Pedrini Patrizia 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Are citizens responsible for their own bad epistemic conduct? What grounds do we have for such accountability practice? And what if citizens lack education and knowledge on how evidence should be considered and thus acted upon? Does ignorance of this kind excuse them, or are there still normative margins for legitimately holding them accountable? In this paper, I wish to chart the legitimate options that we have for our practice of moral accountability in the epistemic domain, in particular the one which pertains to the institutional role of citizens. In order to fulfil the task, I will resort to an analysis of what it takes to meet the standards of an institutional role, what capacities are required, and what duties we incur. The analysis will show that a certain number of capacities are required in order to perform within an institutional role, and that role-occupants are not exempt from a duty of care regarding the state of their own capacities. This is a duty which pertains to most institutional roles, and citizens qua institutional role-occupants are no exception. Institutions have a role to play; they should educate citizens not only by offering suitable chances to acquire specific capacities and knowledge of evidence treatment, but also, conjunctively and constitutively, by helping them to enhance the conscience and care pertaining to the role. This can be effectively done by more clearly defining the standards of epistemic conduct imperative to the institutional role of citizens, as well as illustrating its moral significance in-depth.
University students’ perceptions of using generative AI in translation practices
Authors: Zhang Wenkang , Li Albert W. , Wu Chenze 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
The rising application of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) tools like ChatGPT, Bing Chat, and Bard in language teaching and learning heralds a transformative era. Yet, the experiences and perspectives of university students on integrating these tools into their translation studies remain underexplored. This qualitative study, conducted in a research-intensive, Sino-foreign cooperative university in southern China, explored university students’ perceived benefits and challenges of utilizing GenAI in translation practices, as well as their preferred support mechanisms for addressing encountered issues. Data was collected through open-ended questionnaires and semi-structured interviews and analyzed by using reflexive thematic analysis. Results underscored the advantages of GenAI in enhancing translation efficiency, quality, learning, and practice, fostering a positive outlook and social benefits. Nevertheless, issues such as adequacy, prompt engineering efficacy, practical application, technical limitations, accountability, transparency, and potential AI dependency were noted. Beyond existing self-help strategies, there was an expressed need for additional guidance from educators and institutions. This study enriches our comprehension of how university students perceive and engage with GenAI tools in translation, offering insights for educators and academic institutions to optimize future teaching strategies. It also outlines the study’s limitations and proposes directions for subsequent research.
Detection of sleep apnea using only inertial measurement unit signals from apple watch: a pilot-study with machine learning approach
Authors: Hayano Junichiro , Adachi Mine , Murakami Yutaka , Sasaki Fumihiko , Yuda Emi 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Purpose
Despite increased awareness of sleep hygiene, over 80% of sleep apnea cases remain undiagnosed, underscoring the need for accessible screening methods. This study presents a method for detecting sleep apnea using data from the Apple Watch’s inertial measurement unit (IMU).

Methods
An algorithm was developed to extract seismocardiographic and respiratory signals from IMU data, analyzing features such as breathing and heart rate variability, respiratory dips, and body movements. In a cohort of 61 adults undergoing polysomnography, we analyzed 52,337 30-second epochs, with 12,373 (23.6%) identified as apnea/hypopnea episodes. Machine learning models using five classifiers (Logistic Regression, Random Forest, Gradient Boosting, k-Nearest Neighbors, and Multi-layer Perceptron) were trained on data from 41 subjects and validated on 20 subjects.

Results
The Random Forest classifier performed best in per-epoch respiratory event detection, achieving an AUC of 0.827 and an F1 score of 0.572 in the training group, and an AUC of 0.831 and an F1 score of 0.602 in the test group. The model’s per-subject predictions strongly correlated with the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) from polysomnography (r = 0.93) and identified subjects with AHI ≥ 15 with 100% sensitivity and 90% specificity.

Conclusion
Utilizing the widespread availability of the Apple Watch and the low power requirements of the IMU, this approach has the potential to significantly improve sleep apnea screening accessibility.
Ozone exposure alters nutrients and stoichiometric ratios in different organs of four urban tree species despite limited negative effects on leaf physiology and plant growth and biomass
Authors: Zhang Kun , Li Shenglan , Li Shuangjiang , Shang Bo , Saitanis Costas J. , Xu Yansen , Fang Chao , Papadopoulos George , Feng Zhaozhong , Agathokleous Evgenios 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
To better understand the effects of ground-level ozone (O3) on nutrients and stoichiometry in different plant organs, urban tree species Celtis sinensis, Cyclocarya paliurus, Quercus acutissima, and Quercus nuttallii were subjected to a constant exposure to charcoal-filtered air (CF), nonfiltered air (NF), or NF + 40, 60, or 80 nmol O3 mol–1 (NF40, NF60, and NF80) starting early in the summer of the growing season. At the end of summer, net CO2 assimilation rate (A), stomatal conductance (g
s), leaf mass per area (LMA), and/or leaf greenness (SPAD) either were not significantly affected by elevated O3 or were even higher in some cases during the summer compared with the CF or NF controls. LMA was significantly lower in autumn only after the highest O3 exposures. Compared to NF, NF40 caused a large increase in g
s across species in late summer and more K and Mn in stems. At the end of the growing season, nutrient status and stoichiometric ratios in different organs were variously altered under O3 stress; many changes were large and often species-specific. Across O3 treatments, LMA was primarily associated with C and Mg levels in leaves and Ca levels in leaves and stems. NF40 enriched K, P, Fe, and Mn in stems, relative to NF, and NF60 enhanced Ca in leaves relative to CF and NF40. Moreover, NF resulted in a higher Ca/Mg ratio in leaves of Q. acutissima only, relative to the other O3 regimes. Interestingly, across species, O3 stress led to different nutrient modifications in different organs (stems + branches vs leaves). Thus, ambient and/or elevated O3 exposures can alter the dynamics and distribution of nutrients and disrupt stoichiometry in different organs in a species-specific manner. Changes in stoichiometry reflect an important defense mechanism in plants under O3, and O3 pollution adds more risk to ecological stoichiometries in urban areas.
Outpatient flexible cystoscopy in urogynaecology: a tertiary hospital’s experience
Authors: Kumar Parijot , Tariq Saboohi , Philip Siji , Hendricken Caroline , Salameh Fadi 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Objective
This study is a retrospective evaluation of a new outpatient flexible cystoscopy service in a tertiary care hospital in Dublin, Ireland.

Design
This is a retrospective observational study.

Setting
This study has been held at the Department of Gynaecology, Rotunda Hospital, Dublin.

Population
This included all women who underwent outpatient flexible cystoscopy in Rotunda Hospital between May 2023 to October 2024.

Materials and methods
Retrospective data collection included patient demographics, indications for referrals, cystoscopic findings, post-procedural complications, and cost–benefit analysis.

Results
A total of 77 women underwent flexible cystoscopy. The mean age was 52.5 years ranging from 20 to 85 years. Flexible cystoscopy was successfully completed in all patients, and there were no post procedure complications. The most common indications were as follows: recurrent urinary tract infections (36%) and bladder pain syndrome (36%), followed by overactive bladder symptoms (14%). Fifty-five percent of patients had no abnormal findings. The most common abnormality found was trabeculations (39%), followed by glomerulations (9%). A cost–benefit analysis showed an approximate saving of € 1211 per patient leading to a saving of over € 93,000 over a period of 18 months.

Conclusion
Outpatient cystoscopy is a low-risk, feasible, well tolerated, and safe diagnostic procedure, with no post-procedure complications observed in this study. It avoids the risks of general anaesthesia and is associated with lower procedural costs.
Exploring AI-Driven Feedback as a Cultural Tool: A Cultural-Historical Perspective on Design of AI Environments to Support Students’ Writing Process
Authors: Engeness Irina , Gamlem Siv M. 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
This study draws on the cultural-historical perspectives of Vygotsky and Galperin to examine the role of AI-generated feedback within the Assessment for Learning (AfL) process in fostering students’ development as learners. By leveraging Galperin’s concept of cultural tools and the developmental role of human activity, elaborated in his dissertation written almost a hundred years ago, this study elucidates how this theoretical framework can enhance our understanding of the pedagogical value of individually tailored feedback from AI, ultimately contributing to human development and inspire the Design Principles (DPs) of AI-based educational technologies. Essay Assessment Technology (EAT), designed according to the suggested DPs, is presented to illustrate the application of AfL strategies in schools, highlighting its potential to enhance students’ learning and their development as learners.
Butchery activities associated with member 5 at Sterkfontein, South Africa
Authors: Hanon Raphaël , Val Aurore , Sambo Recognise , Stratford Dominic 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
The origin of animal tissue consumption within the hominin lineage remains a central question in palaeoanthropology and taphonomy. This question is mostly addressed through the study of bone surface modifications (e.g., butchery marks) observed on fossils from East African sites. Albeit somewhat overlooked compared to East Africa, South Africa provides an additional body of evidence regarding the evolution of hominin behaviours. Here, we provide a comprehensive description and analysis of a butchered bone assemblage from the Sterkfontein Name Chamber and Member 5 East Oldowan infill in South Africa, dated conservatively to between 1.4 and 2.18 Ma. Based on the anatomical location and morphology of the bone surface modifications, we demonstrate that hominins using Oldowan tools were capable of performing a complete butchery sequence that included skinning, disarticulation, defleshing and marrow extraction. Furthermore, comparison with the butchered bones from the neighbouring sites of Cooper’s D and Swartkrans shows a continuity, or the repeated emergence, of similar butchery patterns through the Early Pleistocene. The identification of distinct butchery patterns, the range of exploited animals, as well as the presence of bone tools in many sites highlight the diversity of hominin subsistence behaviours during the Early Pleistocene, which we interpret as a reflection of the likely non-linear evolution of such behaviours. Finally, we argue that the research focus of taphonomic analyses should address how hominins processed carcasses in addition to how and when these were acquired. Such analyses would help identifying the development of complex butchery practices in the archaeological record.
Comprehensive review for aflatoxin detoxification with special attention to cold plasma treatment
Authors: Mahmoud Yehia A.-G. , Elkaliny Nehal E. , Darwish Omar A. , Ashraf Yara , Ebrahim Rumaisa Ali , Das Shankar Prasad , Yahya Galal 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Aflatoxins are potent carcinogens and pose significant risks to food safety and public health worldwide. Aflatoxins include Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), Aflatoxin B2 (AFB2), Aflatoxin G1 (AFG1), Aflatoxin G2 (AFG2), and Aflatoxin M1 (AFM1). AFB1 is particularly notorious for its carcinogenicity, classified as a Group 1 human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Chronic exposure to aflatoxins through contaminated food and feed can lead to liver cancer, immunosuppression, growth impairment, and other systemic health issues. Efforts to mitigate aflatoxin contamination have traditionally relied on chemical treatments, physical separation methods, and biological degradation. However, these approaches often pose challenges related to safety, efficacy, and impact on food quality. Recently, cold plasma treatment has emerged as a promising alternative. Cold plasma generates reactive oxygen species, which effectively degrade aflatoxins on food surfaces without compromising nutritional integrity or safety. This review consolidates current research and advancements in aflatoxin detoxification, highlighting the potential of cold plasma technology to revolutionize food safety practices. By exploring the mechanisms of aflatoxin toxicity, evaluating existing detoxification methods, and discussing the principles and applications of cold plasma treatment.

Graphical Abstract
A Study of Direct NH4VO3 Crystallization from Dilute V Solutions and the Effect of Impurities (Fe, Mn) on Crystallization
Authors: Kokko Maria , Hu Tao , Lassi Ulla , Pesonen Janne 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Industrial side streams, such as steel slag, can contain significant amounts of vanadium (V), and its recovery is important for their beneficial use. This study presents a simple approach for recovery of NH4VO3 by direct crystallization from (NH4)2CO3 matrix without significant reagent additions and a V separation stage. This study investigated several factors (seed crystals, ultrasonic pretreatment, pH, vanadium concentration [V], Fe and Mn impurities) affecting direct NH4VO3 crystallization from dilute V-containing ([V] 1.2–2.4 g/L) synthetic solutions. Besides [V], pH had a significant effect on crystallization, especially in the presence of a main impurity Fe. Fe precipitated rapidly with an amorphous structure during pH adjustment. At sufficiently low pH (< 6.8), NH4VO3 crystallized slowly after Fe-containing precipitate formation. The total V recovery (R%) reached 81% but due to co-precipitation of V and Fe, V losses (2–35%) varied depending on the variation in Fe concentration. To minimize V loss, washing the Fe-containing precipitate with an alkaline solution was carried out with promising results (V R% 16–80%). The presence of Mn increased V R% despite almost complete co-precipitation with NH4VO3. The utilization of seed crystals accelerated the crystallization, but the effect of a three-minute ultrasonic pretreatment had an insignificant effect. The method was applied to authentic leachates ([V] 1.6 g/L) which showed comparable results (V R% 81%). Based on SEM-EDS, NH4VO3 crystals contained only marginally Si. This study demonstrates the significant applicability of direct NH4VO3 crystallization for dilute V solutions and offers a functional method from an industrial perspective.
Using generic cities to assess flying ad-hoc network (FANET) performance
Authors: Marks Tobias , Fuger Konrad 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Flying ad-hoc networks (FANET) offer a solution to provide communication among unmanned aerial systems (UAS) without ground infrastructure and, hence, may provide redundancy if main terrestrial communication systems fail. With a strongly growing UAS market, this redundancy is of particular importance especially if the vehicles are operated over densely populated regions, such as urban areas. To further develop the FANET technology, it is, therefore, essential to understand and predict the performance requirements for such networks and the necessary systems as they arise from the different applications. However, with the diversity of cities, the problem arises that custom-made simulation models often lack generality. For this reason, in our work, we introduce an approach to generate randomized cities and to model UAS traffic for selected applications to assess different performance metrics of the FANET. This approach comprises the creation of randomized city geometries, the derivation of UAS traffic demand on these geometries, as well as the simulation of the flights of each individual vehicle. To showcase the capabilities of the approach, we generate an exemplary city and obtain characteristic datasets of the UAS traffic which are then used to assess the FANET performance for a selected FANET application using a simplified network model. We will show that FANET performance is strongly influenced by the extent of the demand, demand distribution over time, vehicle speed, and delivery network geometry.
Exploring the dynamic functions of pastoral traditional knowledge
Authors: Chao Ouerle , Li Xiaoyue , Reyes-García Victoria 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Pastoral traditional knowledge is increasingly recognized for its inherent adaptability in addressing contemporary challenges and increasing the resilience of pastoral communities. To deepen our understanding of how this knowledge system demonstrates adaptive characteristics, we employ a functional lens to examine its dynamic nature in this systematic review. Our analysis, based on insights from 152 case studies worldwide, shows that this knowledge system has various domains and serves diverse functions, including ecological, economic, and socio-cultural functions, with further subfunctions. Ecologically, pastoral traditional knowledge predominantly enhances climate adaptation and resilience; economically, it helps maintain herd productivity and sustain livelihood support; and socio-culturally, it is crucial for preserving the cultural identity and heritage of pastoral communities. Furthermore, our findings highlight that each knowledge domain shows multifunctional characteristic. Our analysis also helps identify common functions across eight knowledge domains, each contributing to areas like sustainable resource management and climate adaptation, though to varying degrees.