bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Modelling and experimental characterization of double layer InP/AlGaInP quantum dot laser
Authors: Abbas Radwa A. , Sabry Yasser M. , Omran Haitham , Huang Zhihua , Zimmer Michael , Jetter Michael , Michler Peter , Khalil Diaa 
Published: December 2023

AbstractSpectrum of an InP/AlGaInP self- assembled double-layer quantum dot (QD) laser fabricated by metal–organic vapor-phase epitaxy is theoretically and experimentally investigated. A bimodal QD size distribution (small and large QD groups) was detected which is formed during the fabrication. A model is proposed based on rate equations accounting for the superposition of two inhomogeneous QD groups. The total output power and the power spectral density (PSD) of the fabricated QD laser are experimentally characterized at room temperature. The output spectrum is segmented into the sum of two Gaussians curves (super Gaussian) belonging to the small and large QD groups. The peak PSD and the spectral width of each group are extracted and their dependency on the injected current density is analysed. The peak of the large QDs is found to be dominant at small current while the peak of the small QDs dominated at high current alongside a reduction in its spectral width leading to lasing based on them. This behaviour is attributed to the saturation of the large QDs energy levels due to its relatively long radiative lifetime. The experimental analysis is in a good agreement with the theoretical results.
Health risk associated with soil and plant contamination in industrial areas
Authors: Kicińska Alicja , Wikar Justyna 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Aims
The aim of the study was to assess human health risk stemming from i) contact with contaminated soil and ii) consumption of plants growing in contaminated soils in allotment gardens and farmlands located in regions heavily affected by the Zn-Pb and steel industries and in hard coal mining areas.

Methods
Based on the pseudo-total concentration of Potentially Toxic Elements (PTEs) measured in soil and plant samples and using the US EPA methodology, we assessed estimated daily intake (EDI), as well as non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic health risk in two exposure scenarios (recreational and residential), stemming from the contact with soil with varying degrees of PTE contamination, i.e.: Cr(3+,6+), Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn. In the recreational scenario, we analyzed three exposure pathways (accidental soil ingestion, dermal contact with contaminated soil and inhalation of contaminated soil particles) for a child (0–6 years), an economically active adult (20–40 years), a senior (40–60 years) and a retiree (60–70 years). In the residential scenario, we additionally analyzed an exposure pathway associated with the intake of contaminated lettuce leaves grown in the soils studied for a child and an adult. With respect to non-carcinogenic health risk, we calculated hazard quotient (HQ) values for individual contaminants under each exposure pathway and target hazard quotient (THQ) values for different exposure pathways.

Results and conclusions
We found that the proportion of different exposure pathways in the total health risk decreased in the following order: intake of contaminated vegetables > accidental soil ingestion > dermal contact > inhalation of contaminated soil particles. Children are more exposed to toxic effects of potentially toxic elements than seniors and economically active adults.
Some reflected autoregressive processes with dependencies
Authors: Dimitriou Ioannis , Fiems Dieter 
Published: December 2023

AbstractMotivated by queueing applications, we study various reflected autoregressive processes with dependencies. Among others, we study cases where the interarrival and service times are proportionally dependent on additive and/or subtracting delay, as well as cases where interarrival times depend on whether the service duration of the previous arrival exceeds or not a random threshold. Moreover, we study cases where the autoregressive parameter is constant as well as a discrete or a continuous random variable. More general dependence structures are also discussed. Our primary aim is to investigate a broad class of recursions of autoregressive type for which several independence assumptions are lifted and for which a detailed exact analysis is provided. We provide expressions for the Laplace transform of the waiting time distribution of a customer in the system in terms of an infinite sum of products of known Laplace transforms. An integer-valued reflected autoregressive process that can be used to model a novel retrial queueing system with impatient customers and a general dependence structure is also considered. For such a model, we provide expressions for the probability generating function of the stationary orbit queue length distribution in terms of an infinite sum of products of known generating functions. A first attempt towards a multidimensional setting is also considered.
Insights on Three Dimensional Organoid Studies for Stem Cell Therapy in Regenerative Medicine
Authors: Mulaudzi Precious Earldom , Abrahamse Heidi , Crous Anine 
Published: December 2023

AbstractRegenerative medicine has developed as a promising discipline that utilizes stem cells to address limitations in traditional therapies, using innovative techniques to restore and repair damaged organs and tissues. One such technique is the generation of three-dimensional (3D) organoids in stem cell therapy. Organoids are 3D constructs that resemble specific organs' structural and functional characteristics and are generated from stem cells or tissue-specific progenitor cells. The use of 3D organoids is advantageous in comparison to traditional two-dimensional (2D) cell culture by bridging the gap between in vivo and in vitro research. This review aims to provide an overview of the advancements made towards regenerative medicine using stem cells to generate organoids, explore the techniques used in generating 3D organoids and their applications and finally elucidate the challenges and future directions in regenerative medicine using 3D organoids.
Graphical Abstract
DEXi-Dairy: an ex post multicriteria tool to assess the sustainability of dairy production systems in various European regions
Authors: Wilfart Aurelie , Baillet Vincent , Balaine Lorraine , de Otálora Xabier Díaz , Dragoni Federico , Krol Dominika Joanna , Frątczak-Müller Joanna , Rychła Anna , Rodriguez Divina Gracia P. , Breen James , Anestis Vasileios , Buckley Cathal , Alem Habtamu , Winiwarter Wilfried , Akkal-Corfini Nouraya , Amon Barbara 
Published: December 2023

AbstractGrowing awareness of global challenges and increasing pressures on the farming sector, including the urgent requirement to rapidly cut greenhouse gases (GHG) emissions, emphasize the need for sustainable production, which is particularly relevant for dairy production systems. Comparing dairy production systems across the three sustainability dimensions is a considerable challenge, notably due to the heterogeneity of production conditions in Europe. To overcome this, we developed an ex post multicriteria assessment tool that adopts a holistic approach across the three sustainability dimensions. This tool is based on the DEXi framework, which associates a hierarchical decision model with an expert perspective and follows a tree shaped structure; thus, we called it the DEXi-Dairy tool. For each dimension of sustainability, qualitative attributes were defined and organized in themes, sub-themes, and indicators. Their choice was guided by three objectives: (i) better describe main challenges faced by European dairy production systems, (ii) point out synergies and trade-offs across sustainability dimensions, and (iii) contribute to the identification of GHG mitigation strategies at the farm level. Qualitative scales for each theme, sub-theme, and indicator were defined together with weighting factors used to aggregate each level of the tree. Based on selected indicators, a list of farm data requirements was developed to populate the sustainability tree. The model was then tested on seven case study farms distributed across Europe. DEXi-Dairy presents a qualitative method that allows for the comparison of different inputs and the evaluation of the three sustainability dimensions in an integrated manner. By assessing synergies and trade-offs across sustainability dimensions, DEXi-Dairy is able to reflect the heterogeneity of dairy production systems. Results indicate that, while trade-offs occasionally exist among respective selected sub-themes, certain farming systems tend to achieve a higher sustainability score than others and hence could serve as benchmarks for further analyses.
The Impact of Exercise Prescription Variables on Intervention Outcomes in Musculoskeletal Pain: An Umbrella Review of Systematic Reviews
Authors: Arora Nitin Kumar , Donath Lars , Owen Patrick J. , Miller Clint T. , Saueressig Tobias , Winter Felicitas , Hambloch Marina , Neason Christopher , Karner Vera , Belavy Daniel L. 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Background
Musculoskeletal pain conditions are the largest contributors to disability and healthcare burden globally. Exercise interventions improve physical function and quality of life in individuals with musculoskeletal pain, yet optimal exercise prescription variables (e.g. duration, frequency, intensity) are unclear.

Objective
We aimed to examine evidence gaps, methodological quality and exercise prescription recommendations in systematic reviews of exercise for musculoskeletal pain.

Methods
In our prospectively registered umbrella review, PubMed, SPORTDiscus, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, EMBASE, and CINAHL were searched from inception to 14 February 2023. Backward citation tracking was performed. We included peer-reviewed, English language, systematic reviews and meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and controlled clinical trials (CCTs) that compared exercise with conservative treatment, placebo or other exercise interventions in adults with musculoskeletal pain. Data were extracted from the following groups of reviews based on their reporting of exercise prescription data and analysis of the relationship between prescription variables and outcomes: (1) those that did not report any exercise prescription data, (2) those that reported exercise prescription data but did not perform a quantitative analysis and (3) those that performed a quantitative analysis of the relationship between exercise prescription variables and outcomes. Outcome measures were physical function, pain, mental health, adverse effects and adherence to treatment. AMSTAR-2 (A MeaSurement Tool to Assess systematic Reviews) was used to assess methodological quality.

Results
From 6757 records, 274 systematic reviews were included. 6.6% of reviews did not report any exercise prescription data, and only 10.9% quantitatively analyzed the relationship between prescription variables and the outcome(s). The overall methodological quality was critically low in 85% of reviews.

Conclusion
High methodological quality evidence is lacking for optimal exercise training prescription variables in individuals with musculoskeletal pain. To better inform practice and evidence gaps, future systematic reviews should (1) identify optimum exercise prescription variables, for example, via dose–response (network) meta-analysis, (2) perform high-quality reviews per AMSTAR-2 criteria and (3) include outcomes of mental health, adverse events and exercise adherence.

PROSPERO registration number
CRD42021287440 (https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42021287440).
Medienpädagogische Professionalisierung als studentische Eigenleistung: Ergebnisse einer qualitativ-explorativen Untersuchung zu medienpädagogischen Professionalisierungsstrategien im Studium der Erwachsenenbildung
Authors: Bellinger Franziska 
Published: December 2023

ZusammenfassungDer Beitrag thematisiert die medienpädagogische Professionalisierung im Sinne einer Grundbildung Medien als Teil der erwachsenenpädagogischen Professionalitätsentwicklung im Hochschulstudium. Es werden Ergebnisse einer Studie präsentiert, die medienpädagogische Professionalisierungsstrategien im Studiengang Erwachsenenbildung an drei Hochschulstandorten unter Berücksichtigung des forschungsmethodologischen Paradigmas der Grounded Theorie qualitativ untersuchte. Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass die medienpädagogische Professionalisierung bisweilen eine studentische Eigenleistung und somit keinen festen Bestandteil der erwachsenenpädagogischen Professionalitätsentwicklung darstellt. Dies resultiert aus spannungsreichen Bedingungen und Wechselwirklungen, die veranschaulicht und diskutiert werden.
Effectiveness of an interactive start-up simulation to foster entrepreneurial intentions among undergraduate university students: a quasi-experimental study
Authors: Sofiullah Md. , Gomes Vale Eleydiane , Darr Dietrich 
Published: December 2023

AbstractHigher education institutions play an essential role in promoting entrepreneurial intentions through entrepreneurial education. However, the effectiveness of such approaches and factors that stimulate entrepreneurial intentions among university students remains uncertain. The current study investigates the impact of an online-based entrepreneurial simulation game, so-called intervention, on entrepreneurial intentions among students. Seventy-five students enrolled in universities in Germany, Ghana, Kyrgyzstan, Ukraine, and Russia are grouped into treatment and controlled sets. Using a pre- and post-intervention survey and principal component analysis, the ordinal regression results found that entrepreneurial competence, entrepreneurial self-efficacy, personality traits, and social environment directly influence entrepreneurial intention. In addition, regression results on these causal variables provide insight into factors that indirectly influence entrepreneurial intention. Considering the nonparametric nature of the data for intervention assessment, the Wilcoxon sign-rank test results indicate that the entrepreneurial simulation did not have a direct impact on entrepreneurial intention. However, the teaching intervention was effective in improving other vital factors that influence entrepreneurial intentions as the self-perceived likelihood of students to start their own business after graduation, level of risk tolerance, entrepreneurial knowledge and skills, exposure to business economics courses, and adeptness to entrepreneurial tasks. Moreover, nonparametric tests such as the Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney U tests revealed significant differences between respondents on these direct and indirect factors that prompt entrepreneurial intentions. Our findings provide valuable implications for improving the design and effectiveness of future entrepreneurial education programs.
Envisioning post-capitalist utopias via simulation: Theory, critique and models
Authors: Pahl Hanno , Scholz-Wäckerle Manuel , Schröter Jens 
Published: December 2023

AbstractWe discuss the role of heterodox economics in opening new perspectives, the question of scalability of socio-economic order, the heritage of the “socialist calculation debate” and its ongoing relevance for discussions on “post-capitalism” today and finally the potentials of computational simulation and agent-based modelling for the exploration of alternative socio-economic approaches. The contributions to our special issue address these aspects and topics in different ways and therefore underline the fruitfulness of these discussions, especially in regard to the development of more just and sustainable socio-economic structures. Faced with the contemporary polycrisis, we can no longer afford “capitalist realism”.
Institutional analysis of the conservation management for Litsea leytensis Merr. in Laguna and Quezon, Philippines
Authors: Engay-Gutierrez Kathreena , Espaldon Maria Victoria , Villanueva-Peyraube Jessica , Sobremisana Marisa , Macandog Damasa , Tiburan Cristino 
Published: December 2023

AbstractThis paper aims to analyze the institutions involved in the conservation management of Litsea leytensis Merr., with the trade name Medang, a wood species preferred by carvers in the Philippines, particularly in Paete, Laguna. The art of wood carving is thriving as a culture and as a wood-based industry for Filipinos, intertwined with natural resource management, where the seeds and wildlings are collected as planting materials for the nationwide greening program, while the wood as raw material is carefully selected from a list of Philippine native species. Litsea leytensis Merr. represents the many endemic trees in the country that need serious attention for conservation because of their continuing decline in habitat and population. The study highlights in situ and ex situ conservation of L. leytensis by institutions in Laguna and Quezon. The results suggest that the rules-in-form guided the institutions in conservation management, and their interactions in the action arena were in downward, upward, and horizontal patterns. The outcomes of their interventions for L. leytensis were relevant, coherent, effective, and efficient, while project impact and sustainability were implied by the participation and community ownership of conservation activities, government policies, and funding.
What do infectious disease specialists think about managing long COVID?
Authors: Lyons Maureen D. , Beekmann Susan E. , Polgreen Philip M. , Marschall Jonas 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
This survey of infectious disease providers on long COVID care revealed a lack of familiarity with existing resources, a sentiment of missing guidelines, and scarcity of dedicated care centers. The low response rate suggests that infectious disease specialists do not consider themselves as the primary providers of long COVID care.
Scales of ideational policy influence: A multi-level, actor-centric, and institutionalist perspective on the role of ideas in African social policy
Authors: Béland Daniel , Foli Rosina , Haang’andu Privilege 
Published: December 2023

AbstractAlthough there is a growing literature on transnational ideational processes in sub-Saharan Africa, the linkages between local, national, and transnational actors and ideas in African social policy would gain from more systematic mapping. In this paper, we explore what we call the “scales of ideational policy influence” by sketching a multi-level, actor-centric, and institutionalist perspective on ideational policy influence at the local, national, and transnational scales. This discussion leads to analysis of how these scales interact in terms of specific ideas and how both governmental and non-governmental actors seek to impact social policy decisions in sub-Saharan Africa. To illustrate the three scales of ideational influence and their interaction, the paper turns to the making of poverty reduction policies in Ghana. We show how policy ideas move from the global level to a national and subnational level using ideational mechanisms aided by the institutional position of actors and material factors.
Biomimetic Epistemology
Authors: Dicks Henry 
Published: December 2023

AbstractImitating nature is an ever more popular strategy in many fields of science and engineering research, from ecological engineering to artificial intelligence. But while biomimetics and related fields have recently attracted increased attention from philosophers, there has been relatively little engagement with what I suggest we see as their basic epistemological presupposition: that we may acquire knowledge from nature. I argue that emphasizing and exploring this presupposition opens up a new approach to epistemology, based on a shift from a conventional epistemological relationship to nature as object of knowledge to a biomimetic relationship to nature as source of knowledge.
An Exploration of Parameter Duality in Statistical Inference
Authors: Thornton Suzanne , Xie Minge 
Published: December 2023

AbstractWell-known debates among statistical inferential paradigms emerge from conflicting views on the notion of probability. One dominant view understands probability as a representation of sampling variability; another prominent view understands probability as a measure of belief. The former generally describes model parameters as fixed values, in contrast to the latter. We propose that there are actually two versions of a parameter within both paradigms: a fixed unknown value that generated the data and a random version to describe the uncertainty in estimating the unknown value. An inferential approach based on CDs deciphers seemingly conflicting perspectives on parameters and probabilities.
Scaphanocephalus spp. (Trematoda: Opisthorchiidae) in intermediate and definitive hosts of the Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico, with a re-description of Scaphanocephalus expansus
Authors: González-García M. T. , García-Varela M. , López-Jiménez A. , Ortega-Olivares M. P. , Pérez-Ponce de León G. , Andrade-Gómez L. 
Published: December 2023

Summary
Scaphanocephalus is a small trematode genus belonging to the family Opistorchiidae. The genus currently contains only three species associated with marine fish as intermediate hosts and fish-eating birds as definitive hosts. Here, specimens of Scaphanocephalus were collected from the Osprey, Pandion haliaetus, and the White mullet, Mugil curema in the Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico. We report for the first-time DNA sequences of adult specimens of Scaphanocephalus, particularly S. expansus, as well as a sequence of a different species sampled as metacercaria. Morphological comparisons of Scaphanocephalus expansus confirmed the identity of the adult specimens, with minor morphological variations; Scanning electron photomicrographs were included, and the species was re-described. Phylogenetic analysis based on 28S rDNA sequences showed that Scaphanocephalus is monophyletic within Opisthorchiidae and consists of three independent lineages. Sequences of adults are identical to those of S. expansus. Instead, the sequence of the metacercaria sampled from the mesentery of Mugil curema nested with specimens reported as Scaphanocephalus sp. from a labrid fish in the Mediterranean Sea, herein named it as Scaphanocephalus sp. 2.
Living with leopards: an assessment of conflict and people's attitudes towards the common leopardPanthera pardusin a protected area in the Indian Himalayan region
Authors: Kichloo Muzaffar A. , Sohil Asha , Sharma Neeraj 
Published: December 2023

AbstractProtected areas are important for wildlife conservation but they are also used by many local communities for livelihood activities. This often leads to conflicts and erodes the tolerance of local people for wildlife, particularly towards carnivores that prey on livestock. To enhance conservation success and improve the social carrying capacity of carnivores, it is essential to understand the factors influencing such conflicts and the attitudes of people interacting with carnivores. We used structured questionnaire surveys to assess the extent of livestock mortality and community responses to common leopardsPanthera pardusin Kishtwar National Park, a relatively understudied protected area in the Greater Himalayan region of India. The mountainous Park and its surroundings have historically served as a haven for the local agro-pastoralists and transhumant pastoralists, resulting in complex human–wildlife interactions across the larger landscape. Our results showed that leopards were responsible for high livestock depredation (71 incidents in 2 years), and households with larger livestock holdings experienced a higher predation rate compared to those with smaller livestock holdings. An ordinal logistic regression model revealed that respondents’ age and period of activity in the Park significantly influenced their opinions regarding leopards. Large losses suffered by otherwise low-income households resulted in more negative attitudes towards these predators. Our study indicates that financial compensation for livestock losses is a key factor in improving human–leopard coexistence. A comprehensive, cross-sector collaborative approach would help to improve conflict resolution and promote favourable attitudes towards these predators.