bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Pyrolysis/Non-thermal Plasma/Catalysis Processing of Refuse-Derived Fuel for Upgraded Oil and Gas Production
Authors: Khatibi Maryam , Nahil Mohamad A. , Williams Paul T. 
Published: January 2025

AbstractRefuse-derived fuel (RDF) produced from the processing of municipal solid waste (MSW) has a high content of biomass and plastics. Pyrolysis of RDF produces a bio-oil which is highly oxygenated, viscous, acidic with a high moisture content and unsuitable for direct use in conventional combustion systems and consequently requires upgrading. A novel process of pyrolysis with non-thermal plasma/catalysis has been developed to produce de-oxygenated bio-oils and gases from RDF. The volatiles from the pyrolysis stage are passed directly to a non-thermal plasma/catalytic reactor where upgrading of the pyrolysis volatiles takes place. Detailed analysis of the product oils and gases is presented in relation to process conditions and in the presence of different catalysts (TiO₂, MCM-41, ZSM-5, and Al₂O₃). Even in the absence of a catalyst, the presence of the non-thermal plasma resulted in high yields of CO and CO₂ gases and reduced bio-oil oxygen content, confirming deoxygenation of the RDF pyrolysis volatiles. The addition of catalysts MCM-41 and ZSM-5 generated the highest yields of CO, CO₂, and H₂ due to the synergy between catalyst and plasma. The catalysts ranked in terms of total oxygenated oil yield are as follows: MCM-41 < ZSM-5 < TiO₂ < Al₂O₃. Pyrolysis of RDF produces an oil containing oxygenated species from biomass and hydrocarbon species from plastics. The non-thermal plasma generates high energy electrons which generate radicals and intermediates from the pyrolysis volatiles which synergistically interact with the catalysts to enable deoxygenation of the oxygenated hydrocarbons through decarboxylation and decarbonylation reactions.
Graphical Abstract
Sub-Category Generalism About Conspiracy Theories
Authors: Noordhof Paul 
Published: January 2025

AbstractI argue for a kind of sub-category generalism about conspiracy theories. I identify four features that negatively contribute to the evaluation of any conspiracy theory that has them. I argue that particularism about conspiracy theories is in conflict even with this moderate position. I explain the implications of sub-category generalism for questions about the epistemic environment in which epistemic agents operate. I argue that even if there are pragmatic reasons for being vigilant about the possibility of malign conspiracies, this does not support rejecting the claim that it is a prima facie epistemically wrong to believe a conspiracy with any of the four features I identify. I discuss how the favoured sub-category generalism may help to refine discussion about the relationship between the psychology of those who believe conspiracy theories and subjects who have delusions. There are grounds for thinking that believers in conspiracy theories display irrationality at least as bad as those suffering from delusions. This is not to pathologise believers in conspiracy theories but recognise the continuities between those who have delusions and believers who are not the subject of clinical attention.
Jordan constant of $$\textrm{PGL}_3(K)$$
Authors: Hu Yijue 
Published: January 2025

AbstractWe determine Jordan constants of groups $$\textrm{GL}_2(K),\textrm{SL}_2(K),\textrm{PGL}_2(K)$$

GL
2

(
K
)

,

SL
2

(
K
)

,

PGL
2

(
K
)

and $$\textrm{PGL}_3(K)$$

PGL
3

(
K
)

for any given field K of characteristic 0.
Of thoughts and things: how a new model of evolution explains the coevolution of culture and technology
Authors: Koppl Roger 
Published: January 2025

AbstractI develop a bioeconomic theory of social institutions that helps to explain the coevolution of ideas, social institutions, and technology. The theory is “bioeconomic” because it traces economic institutions to their biological origins and foundations. The theory draws on a new model of evolution that uses the notion of combination to take Darwinism in new directions. I explain this new model and apply it to the problem of coevolution in economics and other social sciences. The new model builds in part on Brian Arthur’s theory of the “combinatorial evolution” of technology and Stuart Kauffman’s theory of the “adjacent possible.” Central to this new model of evolution is a simple combinatorial equation called the “TAP equation,” where “TAP” stands for “theory of the adjacent possible.” The new model is yielding fruit in a variety of fields including economics.
Optimization of excess energy storage from an islanding micro-hydropower system as an alternative to dump loads
Authors: Ngoma Daniel H. , Masenga Banet , Petro Lucy 
Published: January 2025

AbstractEnergy needs in many parts of the developed world is characterized by high increase in recent years. This is due to the population growth and industrial development which require a substantial amount of energy sources. But studies have shown a different trend for many developing countries especially in Africa where energy needs is increasing steadily and mostly in the urban areas due to the availability of national grid while in the rural and off-grid areas energy demand is supplied with the local available energy resources and technologies eg. solar energy, wind energy, hydropower or biomass energy technologies as well as hybrid energy systems. In the current research study, a water resource in a form of a small river is available in the rural and off-grid villages of the northern Tanzania. So, in this case a microhydro turbine system have been designed and developed to supply the required electrical power to the off-grid villages. The design configuration of the micro-hydro turbine systems consists of a 75 kW hydro turbine system that will supply a load demand of 1,114.38 kWh/day. But studies from the daily energy supply and demand analysis shows a power surplus of 50 kW (at night time) and power deficit of 30 kW (at evening time) from the MHP system. In this scenario the energy storage option have been considered and based on the analysis, hydrogen energy storage has been considered. This new energy storage approach has been proven to increase the energy storage capacity by eliminating 68.37% of the excess energy needed for the dump load and increasing the excess energy storage from 31.63% for the previous battery system to 100% for the hydrogen system.
Implantable physical sensors for in vivo organ monitoring
Authors: Li Xuan , Huang Xinghao , Yang Liheng , Jung Sunyoung , Wang Jihe , Zhao Hangbo 
Published: January 2025

AbstractImplantable sensors can provide access to accurate, continuous, and minimally invasive monitoring of physiological signals from internal organs and tissues, thereby facilitating timely diagnosis, closed-loop intervention, and advanced health management. Among the various types of implantable sensors, those capable of measuring physical parameters–such as temperature, force, and flow–are particularly important due to their ability to monitor physical conditions critical to nearly all organs and to provide insights into a wide range of health conditions. This review presents recent progress in four key types of implantable physical sensors: strain sensors, pressure sensors, temperature sensors, and flow sensors. It covers their engineering principles, design considerations, in vivo performances, and clinical relevance. The review also addresses critical challenges and future opportunities in the development of implantable physical sensors, such as flexibility and stretchability, biocompatibility, long-term stability, and the translation of these sensing technologies from bench to clinic.
Graphical Abstract
Optimizing bendability of flexible electronic devices using a neutral layer strategy
Authors: Wu Majiaqi , Jian Maoliang , Zhang Jianhua , Yang Lianqiao 
Published: January 2025

AbstractThe neutral layer (NL) strategy is a key technique for improving the bendability of flexible electronic devices. In this study, by considering a three-layer structure as an example, the results obtained by finite element analysis (FEA) showed that the NL gradually moved to the top surface of the film as the film thickness and Young’s modulus increased, which are similar to the results produced by theoretical calculations. Subsequently, we optimized the thickness of a single NL structure and the failure bending radius of an indium tin oxide (ITO) electrode was reduced by 50% after optimization. In order to address the problems that affect the design of a single NL, we used optical clear adhesive (OCA) to generate multiple NLs. The FEA method was again applied to the structure and the results showed that decreasing the elastic modulus of the OCA and film thickness could reduce the maximum strain in the film. Finally, the effects of the OCA parameters on the protection of a multiple-layer ITO electrode structure were verified in bending experiments, which showed that the strain on ITO could be reduced from 5.6% to almost 0 in the two-electrode structure. The proposed strategies for designing single and multiple NLs can provide some guidance to facilitate optimizing the electronic infrastructure of flexible devices.
Exploring the potentialities and challenges of deep learning for simulation and prediction of urban sprawl features
Authors: Belinga Ange Gabriel , Tékouabou Koumetio Stéphane Cedric , El Haziti Mohamed 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Rapid urbanization poses several challenges, especially when faced with an uncontrolled urban development plan. Therefore, it often leads to anarchic occupation and expansion of cities, resulting in the phenomenon of urban sprawl (US). To support sustainable decision–making in urban planning and policy development, a more effective approach to addressing this issue through US simulation and prediction is essential. Despite the work published in the literature on the use of deep learning (DL) methods to simulate US indicators, almost no work has been published to assess what has already been done, the potential, the issues, and the challenges ahead. By synthesising existing research, we aim to assess the current landscape of the use of DL in modelling US. This article elucidates the complexities of US, focusing on its multifaceted challenges and implications. Through an examination of DL methodologies, we aim to highlight their effectiveness in capturing the complex spatial patterns and relationships associated with US. This work begins by demystifying US, highlighting its multifaceted challenges. In addition, the article examines the synergy between DL and conventional methods, highlighting the advantages and disadvantages. It emerges that the use of DL in the simulation and forecasting of US indicators is increasing, and its potential is very promising for guiding strategic decisions to control and mitigate this phenomenon. Of course, this is not without major challenges, both in terms of data and models and in terms of strategic city planning policies.
Unanticipated Behavioral Consequences of On-demand COVID-19 Testing Policy in US States
Authors: Robertson Leon S. 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Objectives
During the COVID-19 pandemic, free on-demand testing was promoted in the US. This study was undertaken to support or refute the hypothesis that negative SARS-CoV-2 tests led to travel that exposed travelers to the virus in US states.

Methods
Data on daily trips outside households based on cell phone movement were matched by date to negative tests, positive tests, subsequent COVID-19 cases, and deaths lagged at various intervals in 49 US states during the first 16 months of the pandemic. Least-squares regression of weekly trips as a function of prior trips, negative tests, and cases was examined. Cases 10-14 days after negative tests and deaths 20-25 days later as a function of previous trips and positive tests were also assessed by least squares regression.

Results
Increases in negative tests predicted increases in trips but trips declined as cases increased. Changes in trips predicted short-term changes in cases and deaths. The data closely fit the models.

Conclusions
Surges in cases and deaths from COVID-19 were likely a partial result of on-demand testing, without sufficient contact tracing and quarantine, which misled those who tested negative into thinking that it was safe to travel.
Prognostic value of the Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition criteria including systemic inflammation in patients with advanced cancer
Authors: Rocha Bruna M. M. , McGovern Josh , Paiva Carlos E. , Dolan Ross D. , Paiva Bianca S. R. , Preto Daniel D. , Laird Barry J. , Maia Yara C. P. , McMillan Donald C. 
Published: January 2025

AbstractAn assessment of systemic inflammation and nutritional status may form the basis of a framework to examine the prognostic value of cachexia in patients with advanced cancer. The objective of the study was to examine the prognostic value of the Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition criteria, including BMI, weight loss (WL) and systemic inflammation (as measured by the modified Glasgow Prognostic Score (mGPS)), in advanced cancer patients. Three criteria were examined in a combined cohort of patients with advanced cancer, and their relationship with survival was examined using Cox regression methods. Data were available on 1303 patients. Considering BMI and the mGPS, the 3-month survival rate varied from 74 % (BMI > 28 kg/m2) to 61 % (BMI < 20 kg/m2) and from 84 % (mGPS 0) to 60 % (mGPS 2). Considering WL and the mGPS, the 3-month survival rate varied from 81 % (WL ± 2·4 %) to 47 % (WL ≥ 15 %) and from 93 % (mGPS 0) to 60 % (mGPS 2). Considering BMI/WL grade and mGPS, the 3-month survival rate varied from 86 % (BMI/WL grade 0) to 59 % (BMI/WL grade 4) and from 93 % (mGPS 0) to 63 % (mGPS 2). When these criteria were combined, they better predicted survival. On multivariate survival analysis, the most highly predictive factors were BMI/WL grade 3 (HR 1·454, P = 0·004), BMI/WL grade 4 (HR 2·285, P < 0·001) and mGPS 1 and 2 (HR 1·889, HR 2·545, all P < 0·001). In summary, a high BMI/WL grade and a high mGPS as outlined in the BMI/WL grade/mGPS framework were consistently associated with poorer survival of patients with advanced cancer. It can be readily incorporated into the routine assessment of patients.
Effects of intraspecific hybridisation between the northern and the southern populations of the cabbage beetle, Colaphellus bowringi on life-history traits
Authors: He Hai-Min , Huang Li-Li , Wu Shao-Hui , Tang Jian-Jun , Xue Fang-Sen 
Published: January 2025

AbstractSignificant differences in life-history traits between the southern population (S) and northern (N) population of the cabbage beetle Colaphellus bowringi make it an excellent model for studying inheritance in this insect. In the present study, we observed the life-history traits of pure strains, F1, reciprocal backcross and reciprocal F2 progeny under a photoperiod of L:D 15:9 h at 22 °C. The S population had shorter larval development time, longer pupal time, higher body weight, growth rate and weight loss compared with the N population. In the F1 testing, the larval development time and body weight in hybrid populations were intermediate between the parents, and the paternal parents played a greater role in determining the larval development time, while the maternal parents exhibited a greater role in determining the body weight. The pupal time of hybrid populations was significantly shorter than that of the parents. In the reciprocal backcross testing, both father and grandfather affected the larval development time, while both mother and grandmother affected the body weight. Consistently, in the reciprocal F2 cross testing, the grandfather was more influential in determining the larval development time, and grandmother was more important in determining the body weight. In all tested populations, females had greater body weight, higher growth rate and weight loss than males. Hybridization pattern did not affect sex dimorphism and sex ratio. Overall, these findings suggest that different pathways (maternal or paternal effects) were involved in the inheritance of various life-history traits in C. bowringi.
Assessing neighbourhood-scale BTI spray applications and laboratory-based mortality testing on Aedes aegypti larval development
Authors: Carvalho Gabriel de , Cozzer Gilberto Dinis , Almeida Manuelle Osmarin Pinheiro de , Borges Wiliam Gabriel , Rezende Renan de Souza , Godoy Bruno Spacek , da Silva Ivoneide Maria , Oliveira José Vladmir , Albeny-Simões Daniel , Dal Magro Jacir 
Published: January 2025

AbstractMosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti, pose significant public health risks by transmitting diseases like dengue, zika and chikungunya. Bacillus thuringiensis var. israelensis (BTI) is a crucial larvicide targeting mosquitoes while sparing other organisms and the environment. This study evaluated the effects of sublethal BTI doses on Ae. aegypti larvae regarding mortality, development, adult emergence and size, using a wide-area spray application in an urban neighbourhood. Laboratory experiments with four BTI concentrations (0, 0.008, 0.02 and 0.04 ppm) assessed compensatory and over compensatory responses. The spray achieved over 90% larval mortality within 48 h, but accumulating sublethal doses could trigger compensatory and over compensatory effects, enhancing the fitness of survivors. A dose–response relationship was evident, with higher BTI concentrations leading to increased mortality, reduced longevity and fewer pupae. BTI exposure also skewed the sex ratio towards males and altered adult sizes, potentially affecting population dynamics and vectorial capacity. These findings highlight the effectiveness of BTI in Ae. aegypti control and the importance of understanding compensation, overcompensation and density-dependent effects. While wide-area BTI applications can reach inaccessible breeding sites and offer potent mosquito control, careful consideration of ecological and evolutionary consequences is crucial.
Learned Societies, Knowledge Production, and Public Engagement in Colonial and Postcolonial Ghana, 1930–90
Authors: Bob-Milliar George M 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
This paper constructs the intellectual histories of learned societies in Ghana to illuminate African agency in pursuing knowledge production and dissemination. Academics and politicians founded some of Africa’s first scientific societies in Ghana. Previous scholarship on scientific research and higher education in Africa has overlooked the role of disciplines-based learned societies and national academies. This paper contributes to that literature using a historical comparative approach to construct the histories of learned societies that emerged during the colonial and postcolonial periods to understand how such scientific associations contributed to research productivity. I advance two arguments based on case studies of three scientific societies. First, there is linearity in the evolution of learned societies. Second, the institutionalization of scientific communities along interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary lines provided flexibility and enabled learned associations to contribute relevant knowledge to the “developmental state” that the political leaders were constructing.
COVID-19 vaccine anxieties: exploring social and political drivers of vaccine attitudes in Kono District, Sierra Leone
Authors: Malcolm Liza J. , McLean Kristen E. 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
As COVID-19 spread rapidly during the early months of the pandemic, many communities around the globe anxiously waited for a vaccine. At the start of the pandemic, it was widely believed that Africa would be a significant source of infection, and thus, vaccinating African communities became a primary goal among local and global health authorities. However, when the COVID-19 vaccine became available in March 2021 in Sierra Leone, many people viewed it with scepticism and hesitation. While much literature has focused on access and distribution-related challenges for vaccination in the region, a growing number of studies discuss vaccine hesitancy as driving low vaccine uptake. Shifting attention to understanding the determinants of vaccine hesitancy remains fundamental to increasing vaccination rates, as negative vaccine perceptions tend to delay or prevent vaccination. This study sought to do this by assessing, through semi-structured qualitative interviews, vaccine-related attitudes and experiences of residents of Sierra Leone’s Kono District. In contrast to studies that utilise “knowledge-deficit” models of belief, however, this study drew upon the vaccine anxieties framework (Leach and Fairhead, 2007), which views vaccines as being imbued with personal, historical, and political meaning. Findings suggest that important bodily, social, and political factors, including fear of side effects, the spread of misinformation prompted by poor messaging strategies, and distrust of government and international actors, influenced people’s COVID-19 vaccine attitudes and behaviours. It is hoped that the study’s findings will inform future policies and interventions related to vaccine uptake in Africa and globally.
The impact of published guidance on trends in the pharmacological management of depression in children and adolescents- a whole population e-cohort data linkage study in Wales, UK
Authors: Marchant A. , McGregor J. , Del Pozo Banos M. , Lloyd K. , Williams D. , Thapar A. , Watkins A. , John A. 
Published: January 2025

AbstractBackgroundThis study evaluated the impact of 2015/2016 prescribing guidance on antidepressant prescribing choices in children.MethodsA retrospective e-cohort study of whole population routine electronic healthcare records was conducted. Poisson regression was undertaken to explore trends over time for depression, antidepressant prescribing, indications and secondary care contacts. Time trend analysis was conducted to assess the impact of guidance.ResultsA total of 643 322 primary care patients in Wales UK, aged 6–17 years from 2010–2019 contributed 3 215 584 person-years of follow-up. Adjusted incidence of depression more than doubled (IRR for 2019 = 2.8 [2.5–3.2]) with similar trends seen for antidepressants. Fluoxetine was the most frequently prescribed first-line antidepressant. Citalopram comprised less than 5% of first prescriptions in younger children but 22.9% (95% CI 22.0–23.8; 95% CI 2533) in 16–17-year-olds. Approximately half of new antidepressant prescribing was associated with depression. Segmented regression analysis showed that prescriptions of ‘all’ antidepressants, Fluoxetine and Sertraline were increasing before the guidance. This upward trend flattened for both ‘all’ antidepressants and Fluoxetine and steepened for Sertraline. Citalopram prescribing was decreasing significantly pre guidance being issued with no significant change afterward.ConclusionsTargeted intervention is needed to address rising rates of depression in children. Practitioners are partially adhering to local and national guidance. The decision-making process behind prescribing choices is likely to be multi-factorial. Activities to support implementation of guidance should be adopted in relation to safety in prescribing of antidepressants in children including timely availability of talking therapies and specialist mental health services.