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AbstractThis paper proposes a novel dynamic forecasting method using a new supervised Principal Component Analysis (PCA) when a large number of predictors are available. The new supervised PCA provides an effective way to bridge the gap between predictors and the target variable of interest by scaling and combining the predictors and their lagged values, resulting in an effective dynamic forecasting. Unlike the traditional diffusion-index approach, which does not learn the relationships between the predictors and the target variable before conducting PCA, we first re-scale each predictor according to their significance in forecasting the targeted variable in a dynamic fashion, and a PCA is then applied to a re-scaled and additive panel, which establishes a connection between the predictability of the PCA factors and the target variable. We also propose to use penalized methods such as the LASSO to select the significant factors that have superior predictive power over the others. Theoretically, we show that our estimators are consistent and outperform the traditional methods in prediction under some mild conditions. We conduct extensive simulations to verify that the proposed method produces satisfactory forecasting results and outperforms most of the existing methods using the traditional PCA. An example of predicting U.S. macroeconomic variables using a large number of predictors showcases that our method fares better than most of the existing ones in applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rainfall properties and drop spectra characterization is essential when designing and using rainfall simulators to properly replicate natural rainfall characteristics. This study considered a small-scale rainfall simulator operating under varying nozzle, pressure and rotating disc scenarios. A dynamic rainfall gauge system developed at the Federal University of Lavras was used to quantify the impact velocity of rainfall droplets and kinetic energy, and to conduct radial uniformity analyses. The results showed that the rainfall intensity, impact velocity of droplets, kinetic energy, and uniformity of distribution of rainfall are influenced by effects of the spray nozzle, operating pressure and the rotating disc opening of the rainfall simulator. Lower values of simulated rainfall kinetic energy were observed compared to the empirical natural rainfall kinetic energy at equivalent rainfall intensities. This paper highlights the influence of rainfall simulator design specifications on resultant rainfall spectra and validates simulated rainfall against empirically based natural rainfall characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractA full parametric and linear specification may be insufficient to capture complicated patterns in studies exploring complex features, such as those investigating age-related changes in brain functional abilities. Alternatively, a partially linear model (PLM) consisting of both parametric and non-parametric elements may have a better fit. This model has been widely applied in economics, environmental science, and biomedical studies. In this paper, we introduce a novel statistical inference framework that equips PLM with high estimation efficiency by effectively synthesizing summary information from external data into the main analysis. Such an integrative scheme is versatile in assimilating various types of reduced models from the external study. The proposed method is shown to be theoretically valid and numerically convenient, and it ensures a high-efficiency gain compared to classic methods in PLM. Our method is further validated using two data applications by evaluating the risk factors of brain imaging measures and blood pressure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Not counting domestic dwellings, it has been estimated that some tens of thousands of older masonry buildings and structures exist nationally and that many of these are potentially at risk of partial (or worse) collapse from falling or dislodged masonry. This has significant implications for building owners, managers, insurers, the local and national economies, and the urban environment. The problem is caused mainly by the slow deterioration of masonry under atmospheric and other environments and by the corrosion of so-called wall-ties, relatively thin pieces of steel that tie the outer leaf of masonry walls to the inner leaf. The problem is likely to be particularly severe for scenarios such as synoptic windstorms and earthquake events as this causes area-wide damage, and potential wide-spread loss of human life – losses that could be prevented by timely intervention. The present paper deals with the research framework and the methodology being employed in a long-term project to develop tools for cost-effective structural masonry assessment and for risk estimation under structural deterioration conditions. Some early findings with potential immediate practical implications are given. Because the effects of deterioration are long-term, the overall project outcomes will take some years to come to fruition. They will be reported in due course. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract–Regression adjustment is widely used in the analysis of randomized experiments to improve the estimation efficiency of the treatment effect. This paper reexamines a weighted regression adjustment method termed tyranny-of-the-minority (ToM), wherein units in the minority group are given greater weights. We demonstrate that ToM regression adjustment is more robust than Lin (2013)’s regression adjustment with treatment-covariate interactions, even though these two regression adjustment methods are asymptotically equivalent in completely randomized experiments. Moreover, ToM regression adjustment can be easily extended to stratified randomized experiments and completely randomized survey experiments. We obtain the design-based properties of the ToM regression-adjusted average treatment effect estimator under such designs. In particular, we show that the ToM regression-adjusted estimator improves the asymptotic estimation efficiency compared to the unadjusted estimator, even when the regression model is misspecified, and is optimal in the class of linearly adjusted estimators. We also study the asymptotic properties of various heteroscedasticity-robust standard errors and provide recommendations for practitioners. Simulation studies and real data analysis demonstrate ToM regression adjustment’s superiority over existing methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human capital development is considered the primary source of knowledge and skills in the innovation process. Despite this, there is evidence of a lack of technical and managerial knowledge among emerging sugarcane farmers who are beneficiaries of South Africa’s land reform programme, thus, limiting their full potential in terms of innovation and productivity which is detrimental to their competitiveness. This paper employs the Crépon, Duguet, and Mairesse (CDM) approach, correcting for endogeneity problems, to estimate the causal impact of on-the-job training expenditure, used as a proxy for human capital development, on innovation, and innovation on farm productivity. It is based on a case study of 35 emerging sugarcane farmers in the KwaZulu-Natal north coast, South Africa. The results from the CDM model confirm the causal relationships between human capital (on-the-job training) and the innovation behaviour of the farmers, which positively impact the farm’s productivity. This result underscores the relevance of human capital development in boosting innovation and productivity in the agricultural sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores the use of digital footprints data to improve on the limited information available on the size and distribution of the residential housing stock in the United Kingdom over the past two decades. We use a subset of a large dataset consisting of the names and addresses of more than one billion individuals dating back to 1997 (LCRs: Linked Consumer Registers) to calibrate property lifecycle information within an authoritative geolocated address and property dataset. We validate the results of our novel calibration method against official estimates by the UK government covering the same period. We further show that our calibration method, based on individual level data, captures a much larger share of the residential housing stock since 1997 than would have been possible with other available data sources. We argue that these housing stock estimates are fundamental to the development of a comprehensive digital footprints data infrastructure that has the potential to significantly enhance population, migration, and other social statistics in the UK. More generally, this study highlights the benefits of using digital footprints data in refining, calibrating, and extending existing datasets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper we provide integrative description (morphological and genetic) of the new eutardigrade species Mesobiotus mandalorisp. nov. from central Poland, found during research on the vertical distribution of Tardigrada in the Czerniejewskie Forests. Mesobiotus mandalorisp. nov. belongs to the harmsworthi group, but it differs from the members of this group in some morphometric characters of the bucco-pharyngeal apparatus, claws and/or eggs. Morphologically, Meb. mandalorisp. nov. is most similar to Meb. pseudocoronatus, but it differs from it by a larger bare egg diameter and smaller number of egg processes on egg circumference. Morphometrical data were supported by results of comparative genetic analysis of four molecular markers: 18S rRNA, 28S rRNA, ITS2 and COI. According to COI the new species is most similar to Meb. skorackii with the genetic distance of 21.1%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Great Knot is a species from the Scolopacidae family of waders migrating within the East Asian-Australasian Flyway, and studies on this species have contributed greatly to understanding of migration ecophysiology and migration strategies in long-distance migrants. In this paper, we provide the first description of biometric variability and sexual size dimorphism in Great Knots. During the study on the Kamchatka Peninsula, 683 adults and 229 juveniles were measured and sexed molecularly. In adults, the mean measurements of females were larger than in males, except for tarsus length. In juveniles, at the early stage of migration from breeding to wintering grounds, apparently growth was not complete. Sexual dimorphism was small, with only wing length being significantly longer in females than in males. All dimensions of juveniles were smaller than those of adults, especially in bill length. The most sexually dimorphic trait in both adults and juveniles was wing length, and the most effective discriminant function with wing length as a single predictor correctly identified the sex of 76% of birds in both age classes. However, molecular sexing is the method of choice for reliable sexing, especially in juveniles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several important papers discussing phoretic dispersal in animals have appeared in recent years, but the nature and evolutionary significance of the phenomenon are still not fully understood. This article reviews the current knowledge of this behaviour in Uropodina mites, which disperse at the deutonymphal stage. We first examine the morphological and behavioural attributes of Uropodina deutonymphs involved in phoretic dispersal. We then provide a systematic review of the animals that carry Uropodina, and examine the carrier-specificity of 30 well-known species. Most species are associated with a single family of carriers, or at most, two families. The available information shows that phoretic deutonymphs of most species do not show any preference for male or female carriers. The spatial pattern of attachment of phoretic deutonymphs varies according to the identity of the carrier insect. The nature of deutonymph infestation depends on the size and morphology of both the mite and its carrier. Successful phoresy also depends on synchronisation of the life cycles of the mite and its carrier, but the temporal dynamics of phoresy remain particularly poorly studied. Phoresy has ecological and evolutionary consequences for both the Uropodina and their carriers. Future research on phoresy will benefit from studies of its evolutionary development, the reasons why beetles appear to be specially favoured as carriers, how phoretic mites affect the insect that carries them, and how the apparent global decline in insect populations is affecting their symbiotic mites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ethiopia, marked by diverse geography and rapid land use/land cover (LULC) changes, grapples with formidable water resource management challenges. Understanding the hydrological response to these changes is paramount for sustainability. This review paper provides an overview of studies that investigated the hydrological impacts of LULC changes in Ethiopian basins. The review discusses methodologies, key findings, implications for sustainable land and water resource management, research gaps, and future directions. Emphasizing results from diverse studies that utilized hydrological and geospatial modelling, LULC significantly affects surface runoff, streamflow patterns, and groundwater recharge. The observed consequences are increased surface runoff, modified streamflow timing, and reduced groundwater recharge. The review underscores the urgency for integrated land and water management strategies to alleviate adverse effects. Future research priorities include basin-specific studies, long-term monitoring, integrated modelling, consideration of socio-economic factors, and incorporating climate change scenarios to enhance understanding and guide sustainable water resource management in Ethiopian basins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Internationally, research comparing education systems across countries and jurisdictions is valuable and can elicit nuanced insights into how particular systems operate. This paper's interest lies in considering the scope and content of research comparing education systems across the four UK nations (England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales). This study sought to determine the coverage of UK cross-national comparative education research ('home international' research) between 2000 and 2022. We chose this time period as 1999 marks the devolution of education policy to each UK nation. We aimed to investigate what educational issues had been discussed in the literature and identify any gaps in the content covered by the research. An exploratory, high-level review of 'home international' education research was conducted, based on the review of abstracts. We searched several research databases using a variety of keyword combinations to identify relevant literature published since 2000. Our search identified 53 studies that met our selection criteria. Using a meta-synthesis approach, we coded the content of each abstract to build a picture of the range and thematic coverage of research involving comparisons between at least two of the four UK nations. The analysis of abstracts identified that, over the last two decades, UK 'home international' research has tended to include comparisons of all four nations, coverage of multiple educational phases and a focus on national education policy reviews. Furthermore, we pinpointed a number of gaps in coverage that might not have been anticipated (e.g. relatively little cross-national research focusing on assessment). This high-level review uncovers the landscape of recent 'home international' research, allowing us to view issues that are driving the cross-national research agenda in the UK and recognise implications relevant to education systems that may resonate with jurisdictions beyond these four UK nations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper systematically investigates the effective parameter on the performance of polydimethylsiloxane/graphene (PDMS@Gr)-based triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) as well as their applications. PDMS@Gr films containing 0, 0.05, 0.5, 1, and 1.5 wt.% graphene are synthesized, and their surface characteristics, mechanical behavior, and electrical properties are characterized. Vertical contact-separation mode TENGs are fabricated, and their performance is evaluated. The results demonstrate that the surface roughness and surface charge density are the most critical parameters for the performance of PDMS@Gr-based TENGs compared to the electrical and mechanical properties of the friction layers. The PDMS@Gr-based TENG with 1 wt.% graphene shows the highest power output of 2.6 W/m2 at an optimized working condition (5 Hz and 15 N). It also exhibits stable power output until 15,000 working cycles and displays battery-free applications by powering a light-emitting diode (LED) array, a calculator, a digital watch, and a digital thermometer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Efficiently querying multiple spatial datasets is a challenging task in geoscience. The majority of spatial processing techniques use minimum bounding box (MBB) to approximate neighbouring spatial objects and and place them adjacent in the spatial index. However, due to the existence of redundant space in MBB of these methods, this problem can significantly reduce the query efficiency. In this paper, we propose a novel two-stage adaptive method of clipping the bounding box in spatial query, called IB-CBB (Intersection Based Clipped Bounding Boxes). The first stage employs a clipped bounding box, which records the redundant spatial spaces within the bounding box of the spatial index by calculating the clip points. As a result, the computational complexity of indexed child nodes in the query process is reduced. The second stage optimizes the above query algorithm by judging the intersection of the query box and the MBB of index node, significantly reducing the query time. Experiments demonstrate that IB-CBB outperforms the baseline method in terms of reducing the computational time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zero watermarking constructs the watermark information according to the characteristics of the original data, without changing the data structure and data accuracy. Maintaining high data accuracy is the premise of building information modelling (BIM) usability, so zero watermarking is a hotspot in the research of BIM data security protection. BIM model is a type of 3D model, however, most of the existing zero watermarking algorithms for 3D models are difficult to be better applied to BIM data due to data structure differences. To solve this problem, a zero-watermarking algorithm for BIM data based on distance partitioning and skewness measure is proposed. Firstly, after spatial partitioning based on element paradigm value, the mapping relationship between different partitions and watermarking bits is established. Then, the skewness of elements is calculated, and the skewness measure sign is used as the feature to obtain the binary sequence. Finally, the dissimilarity operation is performed on the binary sequence and the original watermarking sequence which was disordered to construct the zero watermark of the BIM data. The experimental results show that the zero watermarks constructed from different BIM data are unique and robust to translation, rotation, element deletion, element addition, and format conversion attacks. In addition, the superiority of this paper's algorithm over the comparison algorithm in terms of robustness is compared. Therefore, the proposed algorithm can effectively provide technical support for BIM data copyright protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we examine the relationship between the reliance on informal financial support and social insurance programs such as unemployment insurance to meet financial hardships imposed during the economic downturn associated with COVID-19. We use the U.S. Census Bureau's Household Pulse Survey to compare the likelihood of receiving informal financial support from family and friends for households that did or did not receive social insurance controlling for observable household characteristics. We pay special attention to differences by race/ethnicity and by homeownership – a proxy for wealth. Our results suggest that (1) some types of social insurance receipt are a weak substitute for informal financial support, (2) the substitution between informal financial support and social insurance receipt is stronger among White households than households of color, and (3) wealth is a more consistent buffer against financial hardship than social insurance receipt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Direct cash transfers to households during the COVID-19 pandemic, including relief checks and Child Tax Credit payments, were delayed by weeks for recipients without bank accounts and were not received by many non-filers who lacked the time or resources to complete necessary paperwork. A postal banking system has the potential to expand access to financial infrastructure and enable the rapid distribution of resources to households in need during economic downturns – often the same households that are currently excluded from the financial system. This paper examines the history of the US Postal Savings System and the feasibility of a return to postal banking using evidence on the socioeconomic and spatial patterns of financial exclusion. We find that postal banks would be well positioned to compete with both alternative and conventional financial institutions, address issues with physical branch access, and improve outreach to vulnerable populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper discusses the interaction between two substantial debates in taxonomy and nomenclature: The potential introduction of DNA-only types into fungal taxonomy and whether certain species names are offensive and should be changed. It argues that the acceptance of DNA sequences as types will likely lead to a proliferation of eponyms (species named after a person or persons) and that this will render them more likely to censure thus creating a point of instability in the fungal nomenclature. More fundamentally, it seeks to highlight the cultural and aesthetic attraction of names and to promote wider conversation on why we consider the Latin binomial central in our description of species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patients previously examined for cancer with a negative result may present in general practice with ongoing or new symptoms or signs suggestive of cancer. This paper explores the potential existence of a relatively safe period for cancer occurrence after receiving negative examination results for specific types of cancer, including lung (CT thorax), upper gastrointestinal (gastroscopy), colorectal (colonoscopy), bladder (cystoscopy), and breast (clinical mammography). Register-based time-to-event analyses. Denmark. All 3.3 million citizens aged 30–85 years who on January first, 2017, had not previously been diagnosed with the specific type of cancer were categorized based on the time since their most recent examination. Using 1-year follow-up, we calculated the age- and sex-adjusted hazard ratios of being diagnosed with the related cancer, with non-examined individuals as reference. Negative examination results were defined as the absence of a cancer diagnosis within 6 months following the examination. Previous negative examination results were common, also among those diagnosed with cancer during follow-up. For 10 years after a negative colonoscopy the risk of diagnosing a colorectal cancer was nearly halved. However, already 1 year after a clinical mammography and 2 years after a CT thorax the risk of diagnosing the related cancers was significantly higher among those with a previous negative result compared to non-examined individuals. This study did not identify a post-examination period in which the cancer risk, compared to non-examined individuals, was sufficiently low to confidently rule out any of the investigated cancers. What should one expect when considering re-examining a patient with a negative result of a previous examination for cancer? We found that previous negative examination results are common in the general population and among those subsequently diagnosed with cancer. We did not find a safe period after any of the examinations in which a negative result alone could safely rule out the presence of cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is concerned with a novel problem of determining the maximum spanning capacity of an elastic catenary arch under its own weight against in-plane buckling. The arch supports may be fixed or pinned or rotationally restrained. The arch is assumed to have a uniform cross-section throughout its entire length and the arch length is assumed to be inextensible. Additionally, catenary arches with a crown hinge are considered. The specific shape of a family of catenary curves is specified by the height-to-span ratio (or the horizontal force) which is to be determined for maximum buckling capacity of the arch. The Hencky bar-chain model is adopted for the elastic buckling analysis as it avoids the need to formulate the governing equation for buckling and it is also a simple model to understand and for coding. From the maximum in-plane buckling load of the optimal arch solution, the maximum spanning capacity of the arch can then be derived. Presented herein are the maximum spanning capacities, optimal arc length to span ratios and maximum buckling loads of catenary arches with various support and crown conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper evaluates the user’s perceived quality of the service of a city bus and bus rapid transit (BRT) provided in the study areas of Navi Mumbai and Surat, India. The Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) technique was used to identify the significant variables and quantify the effect of those variables on overall satisfaction. The models were validated using validation indices such as Comparative Fit Index (CFI), Normed Fit Index (NFI), Goodness of Fit Index (GFI), and Cronbach’s alpha which are generally adopted for testing SEM models. Predicted models were observed to represent the actual data to a good extent. It was observed that users consider bus stop waiting time, bus on-time performance, and in-vehicle travel time as most important and riding comfort, safety, and end-to-end connectivity as relatively less important. The outputs provide policymakers with an understanding of the user’s perception of the overall service quality of the transit system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThe Department of Commerce (DOC) uses differential pricing analysis in order to detect whether a foreign exporter dumps goods in the U.S. market at prices lower than the exporter sells the goods for in its domestic market. A dumping duty is then levied on the exporter, the amount of which depends on the dumping margin. Several recent cases at the Federal Circuit Court of Appeals have challenged the DOC’s methodology on statistical grounds. In this paper, the DOC’s procedure for calculating the dumping margin is described in detail, including the rules for the controversial zeroing policy. Several statistical issues with the DOC’s approach are identified and some potential improvements are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractDo legislators get credit for working with the other party? Studies on this have been limited due to a lack of an appropriate counterfactual. This paper experimentally estimates the value of credit claiming on a small project that was produced with bipartisanship or with an uncooperative party. I argue that process does indeed matter. Specifically, I hypothesize voters will punish in-party partisans for working with the other side and punish out-party partisans when they do not work with their side. However, in-party partisans do not care whether their party works with the other side. Out-party partisans punish members for uncooperative legislating. Further, I argue and find that these effects are distinguishable from overall partisan effects, demonstrating that members can use distributional projects to gain out-party support in a polarized environment. These findings have important implications for lawmaking and polarization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a new model for Buckling Restrained Braced Frames (BRBF) is proposed that Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) is used for the yielding core instead of steel. The seismic behaviour of a framed structure with chevron type buckling restrained braces is investigated and their seismic performance factors, such as permanent displacements, inter story drifts and response modification factors are evaluated. Nonlinear time history analysis and Incremental Dynamic Analysis (IDA) of two models subjected to 11 ground motion records is performed using OpenSees software. In order to evaluate the efficiency of the proposed model, it is compared to a BRB model with a steel core that the length of yielding core is 1 m for each model. Comparing the proposed bracing systems with conventional BRBFs indicates that buckling restrained braced frames equipped with SMA are better in terms of permanent roof displacement and maximum inter-story drift. However, the response modification factor of BRB models with steel core is higher. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a bibliometric analysis technique is used for performance analysis and science mapping of artificial intelligence (AI) applications in streamflow research. This paper examines the current trends in the literature using the Scopus database over the last 37 years. RStudio Bibliometrix software was used to analyse the titles, keywords, abstracts, and full texts of 3000 publications to identify trends in AI models, publication types, journals, citations, authors, countries, and regions. The highest frequency AI-related keyword is “artificial neural networks,” which was used in a total of 25587 times. The most common publication type, at 82.1%, is journal articles, and the highest rate of country production is 25% for China. In recent years, streamflow research studies have significantly increased their use of AI applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reviews and assesses the prospects for developing geographically enabled research ready data (RRD) with reference to current UK initiatives. Examples of projects for which such data have been provisioned are given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThis paper examines how homestead policies, which opened vast frontier lands for settlement, influenced the development of American frontier states. It uses a treatment propensity-weighted matrix completion model to estimate the counterfactual size of these states without homesteading. In simulation studies, the method shows lower bias and variance than other estimators, particularly in higher complexity scenarios. The empirical analysis reveals that homestead policies significantly and persistently reduced state government expenditure and revenue. These findings align with continuous difference-in-differences estimates using 1.46 million land patent records. This study’s extension of the matrix completion method to include propensity score weighting for causal effect estimation in panel data, especially in staggered treatment contexts, enhances policy evaluation by improving the precision of long-term policy impact assessments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractOur goal is to develop a general strategy to decompose a random variable X into multiple independent random variables, without sacrificing any information about unknown parameters. A recent paper showed that for some well-known natural exponential families, X can be thinned into independent random variables X(1),…,X(K) , such that X=∑k=1KX(k) . These independent random variables can then be used for various model validation and inference tasks, including in contexts where traditional sample splitting fails. In this article, we generalize their procedure by relaxing this summation requirement and simply asking that some known function of the independent random variables exactly reconstruct X. This generalization of the procedure serves two purposes. First, it greatly expands the families of distributions for which thinning can be performed. Second, it unifies sample splitting and data thinning, which on the surface seem to be very different, as applications of the same principle. This shared principle is sufficiency. We use this insight to perform generalized thinning operations for a diverse set of families. Supplementary materials for this article are available online, including a standardized description of the materials available for reproducing the work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL) is a popular product used in the building and construction industry because of its high strength, serviceability, aesthetic characteristics, and cost-effectiveness. However, LVL has traditionally been limited to residential and small light commercial buildings. To expand the use of LVL and reduce the need for steel and reinforced concrete structural members, a comprehensive computational study is conducted to understand the material’s structural performance and find an optimal strengthening ratio. In this paper, a new 3-dimensional Finite Element model was introduced and evaluated to predict the structural behaviour, strength properties, and failure damage modes of LVL timber beams reinforced with a Carbon Fibre Reinforcement Polymer (CFRP) sheet. The model is validated with three experimental tests from the literature, with the reinforced timber model showing a 1.8% error compared to the plain timber model’s 7% error. Additionally, a parametric study is conducted to understand the effects of reinforcement length on the structural behaviour of the reinforced beam, with mathematical equations established to express the relationships. The study found that reinforcing 50% of the beam span generally resulted in the most significant strength improvement. This investigation is made for various strength and serviceability parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Calibration and regionalization are two key tasks in hydrological modelling, and the availability of increased data and computing resources has enhanced our ability to complete these tasks. This paper addresses both tasks, i.e. (i) it proposes novel model structure-based calibration strategies with the goal to improve estimation of high streamflows, and (ii) it explores the association of soil hydraulic properties with optimal parameters to estimate streamflows in ungauged catchments. Both tasks are demonstrated by employing a conceptual hydrological model, Sacramento Soil Moisture Accounting (SAC-SMA), on multiple catchments in the Narmada River Basin. The initial calibrated model exhibited good model performance, with high flows being underestimated. Seven calibration strategies via revising parameter space are explored, and improvement in high flow performance is observed at nine out of 12 catchments. Estimated streamflows based on soil hydraulic parameters demonstrate regionalization potential. The results indicate successful application of the proposed methods which are transferable to other basins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concepts like Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Total Official Support for Sustainable Development (TOSSD) and South – South Cooperation (SSC) have a significant impact on national strategies for international aid. This paper examines India's policy ideas and local practices to explore the contexts of the national implementation of the SDGs for global public well-being. The study approaches these issues through three avenues: the SDG-oriented idealistic view of international aid, the pragmatic lines of the SSC model and the TOSSD framework that bridges those two aspects. In the case of India, we observe a traditional orientation of international aid focused on the SSC model, combined with a tendency of transformation toward the SDGs. The research discusses Indian practice and analyzes the existing barriers to development and their associated policy solutions. This background reflects on the general transition of development strategies in international aid among the BRICS countries and the potential of these countries' future contributions toward global development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cultural tourism is one of the most sustainable and fastest-growing types of tourism, and so has been widely studied. Despite countless works analyzing the possible factors that can condition the choice of the tourist destination, few have addressed how they may differ by sex and within cultural tourism, and they contradict. This paper analyzes this phenomenon through the dimensions of cultural offerings, services and motivations in the city of Málaga, a very tourist city in Spain, which is the fourth country out of 167 with the most world heritage sites—UNESCO. Partial least squares—structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) and importance-performance map analysis (IPMA) were performed for a database of 415 cultural tourists survey responses. The results showed differences between constructs depending on the sex of the tourists. For men, the factor that most affects the choice of destination is tourist motivation—namely, the reason for their visit—followed by services. Conversely, services are first for women, followed by cultural offerings and motivations. The results of this study can be valuable when designing more specific tourism strategies adapted to the profile of tourists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fusobacterium nucleatum, an anaerobic Gram-negative bacterium primarily residing in the oral cavity, has garnered significant attention for its emerging role in cancer progression and prognosis. While extensive research has revealed mechanistic links between Fusobacterium nucleatum and colorectal cancer, a comprehensive review spanning its presence and metastatic implications in cancers beyond colorectal origin is conspicuously absent. This paper broadens our perspective from colorectal cancer to various malignancies associated with Fusobacterium nucleatum, including oral, pancreatic, esophageal, breast, and gastric cancers. Our central focus is to unravel the mechanisms governing Fusobacterium nucleatum colonization, initiation, and promotion of metastasis across diverse cancer types. Additionally, we explore Fusobacterium nucleatum's adverse impacts on cancer therapies, particularly within the domains of immunotherapy and chemotherapy. Furthermore, this paper underscores the clinical research significance of Fusobacterium nucleatum as a potential tumor biomarker and therapeutic target, offering a novel outlook on its applicability in cancer detection and prognostic assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Addressing post-fire impacts largely depends on burn "severity." A singular severity classification that encompasses the holistic effects of fire on all ecosystem processes does not currently exist. Lumping vegetation burn severity and soil burn severity into one metric, or using them interchangeably, can induce large inaccuracies and uncertainties in the intended ecosystem response to forcing. Often, burn "severity" reflects fire impacts on vegetation, which can be measured through remote sensing. Vegetation burn severity is likely more apropos for ecological research, whereas soil burn severity is more relevant for hydrological analyses. This paper reviews different remotely sensed vegetation severity products currently (mis)used for hydrological modeling, provides examples of when vegetation burn severity may (not) match soil burn severity, and summarizes the potential synergistic future of remote sensing with in situ severity metrics. While the focus in this paper is on the western United States, the lessons and principles apply universally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The coupling of human, management, mechanical, and environmental risk factors increases the probability of accident occurrence at metro construction sites. The degree of coupling risks at metro construction sites is the degree of interdependence among the risks in subsystems during metro construction projects. This paper uses the coupling relationship between the human and environmental risks to predict the progression in overall risk-level of construction process at Rongjiazhai station of Xi'an Metro Line 5 in China. The coupling model and system dynamics simulation are applied in four steps: develop the coupling model, estimate the weight index for metro construction risk factors, calculate the risk levels, and estimate the degrees of coupling risks. This paper identifies that the change of coupling coefficients of human-environmental factors has a significant influence on the risk-level at metro construction sites. The "psychological and physiological quality," "natural and working environment," and "physiological discomfort and working environment" are the most influential factors of the coupling level of human-environmental risks. The simulation results demonstrate that the coupling effects of risk factors should be emphasized in engineering practice. To reduce the risk-level of construction system, the human, mechanical, and environmental risks should be identified, coupled, and monitored in real time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated acceptance of learning from other countries, especially for high-income countries to learn from low- and middle-income countries, a practice known as global learning. COVID-19’s rapid disease transmission underscored how connected the globe is as well as revealed stark health inequities which facilitated looking outside of one’s borders for solutions. The Global Learning for Health Equity (GL4HE) Network, supported by Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, held a 3-part webinar series in December 2021 to understand the current state of global learning and explore how global learning can advance health equity in the post-COVID-19 era. This paper reflects on these cutting-edge discussions about the current state of global learning, drawing upon the highlights, perspectives, and conclusions that emerged from these webinars. The paper also comments on best practices for global learning, including adapting for context, addressing biases, funding considerations, ensuring bidirectional partnerships, community engagement, and adopting a multidisciplinary approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The historical origins of the Tibet issue in Sino-Indian relations remain understudied. Most diplomatic histories on this subject focus on the highest levels of government, glossing over the immense role of domestic actors in shaping the Tibet question in the India-China relationship. This paper aims to address this gap by studying the domestic response to Dalai Lama's flight to India. Specifically, it analyses the domestic and international advocacy of the noted freedom fighter Jayaprakash Narayan. The paper highlights how Narayan's advocacy was critical in building global and public opinion on the Tibet question, culminating in the passage of Resolution 1723 at the United Nations. It argues that understanding his actions on Tibet is critical because of its negative impact on the Indian government's policy of preventing the issue from gaining international recognition – a gesture aimed at steadying the declining relationship with China. By hindering the government's efforts at damage control, the paper demonstrates how Jayaprakash Narayan's advocacy was a key factor explaining why Sino-Indian ties precipitously declined over the Tibet issue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a federal political system like India, the role of the federal units bordering the neighboring countries becomes crucial in foreign policy-making toward neighboring countries. It is expected that when similar political parties or coalition partners remain in power in both the center and the states, federal politics does not hinder policy-making toward neighboring countries. Moreover, foreign policy being a central subject, federal units any way reflect passive tendencies, especially in the case of governments with the same party affiliations. Both these simplifications are contested in this paper by citing instances of the role of West Bengal and Tripura, India's two federal units bordering the neighboring country of Bangladesh, at different historical junctures, in which similar political parties in the center and the state resulted in more friction than when different political parties were in office in matters of India's foreign policy-making toward Bangladesh. The paper argues that instead of federalization of foreign policy, where federal units have an influential role, this particular experience suggests an externalization of federalism, where an external variable (Bangladesh) influences internal federal dynamics to the extent that domestic electoral politics force the political parties of the two federal units to give importance to the neighboring country in taking positions on foreign policy-making. The immediate context of fifty years of the India-Bangladesh relationship and question about over-centralization during the latest phase of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) regime in India push the authors to take up Bangladesh as a case to contest the given of Indian federalism in foreign policy making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Publications in Renal Failure in Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED) between 1992 and 2021 were analyzed. Six publication indicators: total, independent, collaborative, first author, corresponding author, and single author publications as well as their related citation indicators, were used to compare performances of countries, institutes, and authors. Comparison of the highly cited papers and journal's impact factor (IF) contributors was discussed. In addition, the main research topics in the journal were presented. Results show that China published the most total articles and reviews, as well as the first-author papers and corresponding-author papers in the journal. The Chang Gung Memorial Hospital in Taiwan ranked the top in five publication indicators: total, single-institution, inter-institutionally collaborative, first author, and corresponding-author papers. A low percentage of productive authors emerged as a journal IF contributor. Similarly, only a limited relationship between highly cited papers and IF contributing papers was found. Publications related to hemodialysis, chronic kidney disease, and acute kidney injury were the most popular topic, while meta-analysis was new focus in the last decade in the journal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the social sciences, a direct relationship with societal actors is an extended practice of conducting research, particularly in fields entailing in-depth empirical fieldwork. This paper analyzes the interactive processes observed in knowledge production in social sciences. The aim is to understand how these relationships are constructed between academic and non-academic actors, which is the goal of researchers in approaching social actors in this way, and the scope of these relationships for generating knowledge and addressing societal problems. Given the modalities of social science research, two frameworks are essential to analyzing these processes. On the one hand, there is the notion of knowledge networks. On the other, knowledge mobilization concerns understanding these processes and their linearity or non-linearity. In this paper, integrating both frameworks helps explain interactive social research. Based on recent empirical information about social sciences research in Mexico, this paper analyzes the dimensions of the interactive character of knowledge generation in these disciplines. The purpose of the paper is to document how the interactions between academic and non-academic actors are built during research; the characteristics of such collaborations; how the mobilization of knowledge occurs emphasizing learning processes and trust generation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper opens the black box of policy co-production processes presented by the Colombian and Ecuadorian governments, regarding the traditional knowledge associated with genetic resources, in keeping with the necessities of Indigenous peoples. The purpose of this paper is to analyze what similarities and differences there exist in the role of the Ecuadorian and Colombian States as organizers, guarantors of plural expression, and facilitators of public deliberation, and how policymakers have opened the space for Indigenous peoples for producing traditional knowledge policy. The paper turns to qualitative research focused on collecting information from public actors. The data obtained assesses our working hypothesis that the role of the State in the production of traditional knowledge policy has been more democratic in Ecuador than in Colombia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Self-harvesting and consumption of electrical energy from a small-scale photovoltaic (PV) system became quite a beneficial option for households who seek for an economical, independent and environment-friendly power alternative. However, in practice, prosumers without battery storage systems face some energy flow management issues, when only part of the generated energy is consumed instantly in place, while the rest is exported to the distribution grid or simply lost. The paper examines profiles of some preselected prosumers with small-scale PV installations with the purpose to evaluate losses caused by the inability to consume instantly all generated energy and thus resulting in redundant energy exchange between prosumer's microgrid and distribution grid. The analysis reveals certain anomalies, when local PV system produces enough power to cover all the electricity demand of the household, but energy is still imported from the DSO grid at the same time. These simultaneous flows of import and export active energy were calculated and showed quite significant numbers. The paper digs into this problem through a quantitative evaluation of energy flows within one preselected microgrid using one-second resolution experimental data. The results presented here help us distinguish the main factors leading to inefficient distribution of generated power in households. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper addresses two interlinked problems in sustainable development and suggests a methodology to resolve them. The first is the reduction of atmospheric greenhouse gas emissions, especially carbon dioxide. The second is the maintenance of biodiversity. Current carbon financing and environmental stewardship mechanisms underwhelm, often diluting intended positive effects. Most existing carbon credits do not have protection after 40 years, placing projects substantially beneath the C02 radiative forcing cycle. This paper presents the 'Balance' approach to sustainable development, including contractual principles ensuring C02 reduction, biodiversity enhancement and financial accountability. We describe two novel measures: a carbon calculator for commercial entities, and a new metric, the Balance Unit, combining biodiversity creation with carbon credits. A case study, spanning over 20 years at the Forest of Marston Vale, is then presented. It finds an increase in tree cover, CO2 sequestration, reduction in agricultural GHG emissions, sulphur dioxide and particulate matter absorption, and annual local economic benefits totalling £UK12.83 million. Expository detail regarding the 'Planting Principles' practised at Marston Vale is also provided. We argue that the Balance methodology, especially the Balance Unit, enables greater measurement reliability and long-term efficacy for maintaining biodiversity and reducing GHG emissions than current carbon financing approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the years, several achievements have been made in power generation and optimising hybrid renewable energy systems (HRES) to achieve nature conservation, achieve energy security, and reduce carbon emissions. However, there are many complexities in Renewable energy (RE) conversion, sizing, design, and implementation, that require optimisation techniques to achieve optimal results in terms of reliability, cost, and environmental protection over time. This paper presents an overview of research trends in Optimization methods in HRES which are classified into modern and conventional methods. These two classifications are further divided into control methods, Artificial intelligence, Iterative and mathematical operations. However, all mentioned techniques have inherent advantages and disadvantages which will be discussed in this survey. In addition, the review paper explored different types of research in computing intelligence (CI), an aspect of Artificial Intelligence (AI) that involves the development of nature-inspired algorithms for optimisation. Finally, general optimisation criteria, system sizing methods used in RES, Mathematical modelling of RES, and gaps for future work to achieve sustainability were also presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper is an attempt at applying Samir Amin's lens in the analysis of socio-economic development in Africa. Social and economic development in Africa has been substandard, largely because of the economic system followed and because effective structural transformation has not taken place – Samir Amin's works explained what needed to be done to transform Africa (and the broader global south). It is in this context that the paper posits that post-colonial Africa has had to contend with disruptive socio-economic and political realities instituted by European colonialism, slave trade and inappropriate integration of Africa to the so-called global economy. The fundamental explanation for the poor socio-economic development in Africa is global capitalism, and one of the possible solutions is in Samir Amin's delinking proposal as well as the restructuring of the African economies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper is nested within the decolonial theme by repositioning Patrice Lumumba's decolonial thought within the radical writings of Samir Amin. As seen in his famous independence speech, Patrice Lumumba is arguably one of the African decolonial giants who championed the remembering of the black bodies by challenging their dismembering facilitated and sustained by the grand construction of the human by Euro-modernity. Rereading his decolonial ideas through repositioning it in Amin's works comes at an opportune time given the recent burial of his last known remains – a tooth that was removed from his body as a trophy by a Belgian officer who participated in his brutal murder in the 1960s. It is within this context that this paper seeks to underscore the logic and legitimacy of Lumumba's decolonial thinking by repositioning it in the works of Amin. By doing so, we aim to contribute to all non-European discourses aimed at decolonial self-reconstruction and self-definition, such as Afrocentricty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To achieve the goal of carbon reduction, China has been piloting the Carbon Emission Trading System (CETS) since 2013. As the economy faces a downward trend, it is significant to explore the impact of CETS on business development. There is still debate in academia about whether this policy can boost the level of business development. This paper, based on all A-share data of listed companies in China from 2009 to 2018, uses the Difference in Differences (DID) model to verify the impact of CETS on the input of capital and labor factors and the level of technology in enterprises and discusses the industry heterogeneity of this impact in detail. Placebo tests, propensity score matching, and triple differences ensure the robustness of the conclusions. In further research, this paper decomposes the policy effect of CETS. It regresses the impact of carbon quota prices and carbon market trading scale on business development. The final conclusion is that CETS has a positive impact on the input of capital and labor in enterprises and a negative impact on the level of technology. After distinguishing industries, this conclusion shows differences according to different characteristics of high emissions and low emissions. In addition, the increase in carbon quota prices hinders business development, while the scale of carbon market trading shows an inverted "U" relationship with business development. The article provides meaningful policy references for China and countries in the early stages of CETS construction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since 2010, the Chinese government has developed several batches of low-carbon pilot provinces and cities continuously. And in the backdrop of carbon peak and carbon neutralisation recently, the carbon emission reduction policies and achievements of China have attracted more and more worldwide attention. In the field of human health, this paper investigates whether the Low-carbon Province Pilot Policy of China has positive effects on residents' health based on the micro data of China Family Panel Studies (CFPS) from 2010 to 2016. Using the time-varying difference-in-difference model to solve the endogeneity problem commonly faced in the literature, we find that Low-carbon Province Pilot Policy has a positive impact on public health through air quality improvement and the unemployment level alleviation mainly. And in urban areas, the policy effect is more obvious than that in rural regions. This paper expands the content of national low-carbon governance effects to residents' health further and contribute to China's low-carbon development. Specifically, it reminds us to focus on the dynamic adjustment and effective continuation of the policy, and also the all-round support for 'the disadvantaged' in environmental governance process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon nanotube cement-based grouting materials currently mostly stay in the pure slurry research stage, and there is little research in the field of rock crack reinforcement combined with the engineering application background. Therefore, on the basis of existing research, it is important to expand the dispersion of carbon nanotubes in cement paste, and to carry out research on the reinforcement of fractured rocks in combination with the engineering background. This paper combines the actual needs of construction engineering to prepare carbon-based nanomaterials, and analyzes its impact on construction engineering in combination with experiments. Moreover, this paper analyzes the influence of carbon nanotubes on the macro-mechanical properties of cement-based materials, and studies the influence of modified carbon nanotubes on the macro-mechanical properties of cement-based materials. In addition, this paper explores the micromechanical properties of carbon nanotube cement materials at the nanometer scale. The research results verify the effectiveness of carbon-based nanomaterials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Marine fishery is a highly mechanized sector, Industrialization and industrialization "Big agriculture. Among them, marine fishing is the main part of the fuel consumption of fishing vessels, which will produce a large amount of carbon emissions; the electricity consumption of advanced pond aquaculture and factory aquaculture in seawater will also bring high indirect emissions. It is of great practical significance to study the optimization of marine fishery industrial structure for promoting the high-quality development of marine fishery. Based on the data of marine fishery in Zhejiang Province from 2008 to 2017, this paper calculates the carbon emission efficiency of marine fishery and discusses the impact of industrial structure optimization of marine fishery on carbon emission efficiency. Based on the analysis of the research results, this paper puts forward some suggestions on optimizing the structure of marine fishery industry: increasing the technical input and personnel introduction of energy intensive industries, and developing five high-tech pillars strategically. From the perspective of regional industrial structure optimization, high-efficiency areas should enhance the ability of modern manufacturing industry to undertake international industrial transfer and form innovation clusters; the medium-efficiency areas should use industrial bases to develop characteristic leading industries and modern service industries; low-efficiency areas should develop high-tech industries in line with local resource endowments and advantageous industries, and improve the allocation efficiency of environmental protection investment expenditure. By optimizing the industrial structure of Zhejiang Province, carbon emission efficiency can be improved. Improve fishermen 's environmental awareness and management ability, vigorously develop and promote green aquaculture technology, and provide technical support for industrial transformation and upgrading. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]