bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TransQAM: Transformer-based Question Answering System in Malayalam
Authors: Rahmath K Reji , Raj P.C Reghu , P.C Rafeeque
Published: February 2025

Question Answering(QA) systems are used to extract the exact answer from a given context. In this study, we have implemented a QA system named TransQAM with BERT and its variants for the low resource Malayalam language. We have considered the transformer models, namely, BERT, multilingual BERT, XLM-RoBERTa, and MuRIL for implementation. Since there is no publicly available Malayalam dataset for QA, we have built and made publicly available a sufficiently large Malayalam QA dataset in SQuAD (Stanford Question Answering Dataset) format with 30k question-answer pairs. We have obtained state-of-the-art results for TransQAM implemented using MuRIL. Due to the advancement of language models and active research, many languages, such as English, have well developed QA systems compared to the unexplored Malayalam language. According to our knowledge, TransQAM is the first QA system in Malayalam that successfully applies transformer models to answer questions and achieves more than 80% accuracy.
Efficient Quantum Circuits for Non-Unitary and Unitary Diagonal Operators with Space-Time-Accuracy Trade-Offs
Authors: Zylberman Julien , Nzongani Ugo , Simonetto Andrea , Debbasch Fabrice
Published: February 2025

Unitary and non-unitary diagonal operators are fundamental building blocks in quantum algorithms with applications in the resolution of partial differential equations, Hamiltonian simulations, the loading of classical data on quantum computers (quantum state preparation) and many others. In this paper, we introduce a general approach to implement unitary and non-unitary diagonal operators with efficient-adjustable-depth quantum circuits. The depth,
i
.e., the number of layers of quantum gates of the quantum circuit, is reducible with respect either to the width,
i
.e., the number of ancilla qubits, or to the accuracy between the implemented operator and the target one. While exact methods have an optimal exponential scaling either in terms of size,
i
.e., the total number of primitive quantum gates, or width, approximate methods prove to be efficient for the class of diagonal operators depending on smooth, at least differentiable, functions. Our approach is general enough to allow any method for diagonal operators to become adjustable-depth or approximate, decreasing the depth of the circuit by increasing its width or its approximation level. This feature offers flexibility and can match with the hardware limitations in coherence time or cumulative gate error. We illustrate these methods by performing quantum state preparation and non-unitary-real-space simulation of the diffusion equation. This simulation paves the way to efficient implementations of stochastic models useful in physics, chemistry, biology, image processing and finance.
Class-Imbalanced Learning on Graphs: A Survey
Authors: Ma Yihong , Tian Yijun , Moniz Nuno , Chawla Nitesh V.
Published: February 2025

Rapid advancement in machine learning is increasing the demand for effective graph data analysis. However, real-world graph data often exhibits class imbalance, leading to poor performance of standard machine learning models on underrepresented classes. To address this,

C

lass-

I

mbalanced

L

earning on

G

raphs (CILG) has emerged as a promising solution that combines graph representation learning and class-imbalanced learning. This survey provides a comprehensive understanding of CILG’s current state-of-the-art, establishing the first systematic taxonomy of existing work and its connections to traditional imbalanced learning. We critically analyze recent advances and discuss key open problems. A continuously updated reading list of relevant papers and code implementations is available at https://github.com/yihongma/CILG-Papers.
Arthroscopy-validated Diagnostic Performance of 7-Minute Five-Sequence Deep Learning Super-Resolution 3-T Shoulder MRI
Authors: Vosshenrich Jan , Bruno Mary , Cantarelli Rodrigues Tatiane , Donners Ricardo , Jardon Meghan , Leonhardt Yannik , Neumann Shana G. , Recht Michael , Serfaty Aline , Stern Steven E. , Fritz Jan
Published: February 2025

Seven-minute threefold parallel imaging–accelerated deep learning super-resolution 3-T shoulder MRI showed robust diagnostic performance, yielding images of high quality and depicting shoulder abnormalities with good to excellent accuracy.
Safe Electropolishing Process for Aluminum and Its Alloys Using Sodium Chloride Glycol Solutions Without Perchloric Acid
Authors: Iwai Mana , Kikuchi Tatsuya , Nakajima Daiki , Kitano Sho , Fushimi Koji , Habazaki Hiroki
Published: February 2025

A safe and straightforward process was developed for electropolishing aluminum surfaces using a nonhazardous electrolyte solution, specifically ethylene glycol (EG) or propylene glycol (PG) with NaCl, instead of perchloric acid. High-purity aluminum specimens were immersed in a slowly stirred electrolyte solution of EG or PG with NaCl and anodically polarized at 20–140 V for 2–30 min. At an optimal voltage of 40–60 V, the current density reached a constant value after an initial transition, resulting in uniform dissolution of the specimen’s surface and successful electropolishing. The surface reflectance exceeded 80% across the visible light spectrum, nearly matching that of an ideal specular plate. The surface showed numerous bumpy structures with a height of 10 nm and a roughness of 3.0 nm. This electropolishing method is also applicable to aluminum alloys (e.g., A1050, A5052, A6063, and A7075), improving the reflectance of these alloys by more than 20% compared to those of untreated surfaces.
Impact of ALD Al2O3 Dielectrics on the Device Performance of SiC-Based Field-Effect Transistors (FETs): A Study of Atomic Diffusion
Authors: Choi Kyeong-Keun , Kim Sung-Kyu , Kim Seongjun , Park Young Jae , Yang Woong-Suk , Han Sung-Woong , Kang Dae-Hwan
Published: February 2025

We investigated double-diffused (D)-MOSFETs based on 4H-SiC with an atomic-layer-deposited (ALD) 30 nm-thick Al2O3/15 nm-thick SiO2 bi-layer to improve the microstructure and electrical properties, particularly the subthreshold swing (S) and atomic diffusion behavior of phosphorus (P) in the P-doped poly-Si gates. Stacking the 30 nm-thick ALD Al2O3 on the SiO2 layer reduced the subthreshold swing (S) of the bi-layer film (Al2O3/SiO2) by approximately 53% compared to that of the SiO2 single dielectric film, demonstrating a reduction from 732.3 to 345.7 (mV/decade) at room measuring temperature of about 25 °C. The device performance of gate improved by Al2O3 dielectrics blocking of the atomic diffusions of phosphorus (P) and carbon (C). This effect was analyzed in more detail using atom probe tomography (APT). The penetration depth of P atoms in bilayer of Al2O3/SiO2 was about 8.4 nm less than that in the single layer of SiO2, owing to the blocking of the P atomic diffusion by the ALD Al2O3 film.
Metal (Co/Zn) Acetate-Modified Porous Carbon Derived from Peanut Shells as a Superior Supercapacitor Electrode Material
Authors: Sandeep Andem , Ravindra A. V.
Published: February 2025

Biomass-derived activated carbon has garnered significant attention due to its notable porosity, viability, and adequacy. This study employed peanut shells as the carbon source to produce porous carbon through hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) with or without activating reagents (Co and Zn Acetates) for evaluation as a supercapacitor electrode material. The dried precursor powder, with or without an activating agent, underwent hydrothermal treatment at 200 °C for 7 h, followed by carbonization at 400 °C for 3 h in an open atmosphere furnace. The sample treated with Zn acetate (PS-ZnA) exhibits the highest BET-specific surface area of 273.2 m2 g−1. Raman spectra depict distinct D and G bands at approximately 1343 and 1580 cm−1, respectively. The electrochemical performance was assessed using a three-electrode setup with 1 M H2SO4 electrolyte. The PS-ZnA demonstrates a specific capacitance of 105.5 F g−1, surpassing that of the PS-CoA. The PS-ZnA also exhibits energy and power densities of 8.62 Wh kg−1 and 381 W kg−1, respectively. Furthermore, the PS-ZnA illustrates an 88.2% retention rate after 5000 cycles at 10 A g−1, along with a low Rs value of 2.82 Ω, indicating favorable electrical conductivity. These findings strongly suggest that Zn acetate-treated porous carbon synthesized using HTC serves as an exceptional electrode material for supercapacitors.
Extreme Rainfall‐Producing Echo Training Processes During Two Landfalling Typhoons in East China
Authors: Weng Zhimei , Gu Wen , Wang Kai , Gao Li , Feng Yecheng , Lu Boyan , Lu Qiao , Gu Sinan
Published: February 2025

Echo training represents the primary mechanism through which rain bands precipitate extreme rainfall events. This study employed a combination of observational data and ERA5 reanalysis data to examine two instances of “echo training” that occurred following the landfall of typhoons Soudelor (2015, Process 1) and Fitow (2013, Process 2) in China. The findings indicate notable differences in the environmental background, characteristics, and the organization of convective rainbands between these two “echo training” processes. During Process 1, a well‐developed convective system accompanied by a deeper boundary layer convergence between the cold pool and the easterly flow is observed. The presence of baroclinic structures permits the uplift of warm and humid air from the ocean that facilitated by the solenoidal term. During this period, the dispersion queues on both sides of the rainband contributed to the strengthening of convection and enabled convective cells to traverse the length of the rainband for an extended duration. In Process 2, the comparative wind between the easterly flow and the weak cold pool resulted in relatively shallow convergence, while the warm rain process dominated. The continuous generation of new cells occurred at the eastern boundary of the rainband, while dissipation occurred at the western boundary, resulting in persistent heavy rainfall for the covered area.
Early Detection of Adverse Drug Events via 24‐h Telephone Services in a Community Pharmacy: A Case Report
Authors: Maehara Masaki , Sugiyama Masayasu
Published: February 2025

A 57‐year‐old woman with bipolar disorder (BD) was started on combination therapy with aripiprazole and lithium. At the same time, a community pharmacist administered follow‐up through 24‐h telephone services for the early detection of adverse events. Four days after starting therapy, the patient called a community pharmacy after working hours and mentioned the occurrence of disabilities, possibly due to adverse effects, including extrapyramidal symptoms (EPSs), to the pharmacist who received the forwarded call. The community pharmacist immediately called the hospital to report the patient’s problems and suggested a decrease in doses or withdrawal of the suspected medications to the prescribing doctor. After several hours, the hospital called and informed the pharmacist that the doctor had instructed the patient to discontinue aripiprazole. The pharmacist immediately called the patient, explained the doctor’s instructions, and found that the EPS symptoms improved gradually, except for difficulty speaking smoothly. Ultimately, valproic acid was prescribed instead of lithium, resulting in a dramatic improvement in speech difficulties. These results indicate that community pharmacist‐administered follow‐up and intervention, especially through 24‐h telephone services, is crucial for drug safety management, such as early detection of adverse events caused by combination therapy in patients with BD.
Variation in the Diagnostic and Treatment Pathway in Peritoneal Mesothelioma: A Mixed‐Methods Study in the United Kingdom
Authors: Westbrook Samantha , Ejegi-Memeh Stephanie , Sherborne Virginia , Warnock Clare , Wood Emily , Stanford Sophia , Taher Rayan , Creech Lorraine , Squibb Lynne , Twist Caroline , Gardiner Clare
Published: February 2025

Peritoneal mesothelioma (PM) is a rare and aggressive cancer with a significant impact on the patient quality of life. This study aimed to explore variability in the care pathway of people with PM and to explore the patient experience of the care pathway. A mixed‐methods, longitudinal approach was employed. The three stages of the study were (1) cross‐sectional survey of PM patients and family members exploring demographic characteristics, patient pathway, experiences of treatment and care; (2) qualitative, case study series of individual patients, their family member/carer/friend and professionals; and (3) case note review of case study patients living with PM. Forty‐seven patients (30 women and 17 men) responded to the survey. We recruited seven case studies comprising seven patient participants, eight carers and six professionals. Findings revealed a significant delay in diagnosis due to nonspecific symptoms and challenges in differential diagnosis. The study highlights the need for improved timely diagnosis, enhanced communication between healthcare providers and patients, and referral to specialist mesothelioma multidisciplinary teams. Recommendations include the need to implement smoother treatment and management pathways, to increase referrals to specialist multi‐disciplinary teams and to engage patients in decision‐making throughout the treatment pathway.
Predicting Factors Associated With Uncontrolled Hypertension Using Machine Learning Methods: A Cross‐Sectional Study in Western Iran
Authors: Cheraghi Zahra , Doosti-Irani Mahboobeh , Sohrabi Masoumeh , Doosti-Irani Amin
Published: February 2025

Uncontrolled hypertension is a major public health issue globally. This study aimed to uncover the factors contributing to uncontrolled hypertension using machine learning techniques. In this study, 303 adults with hypertension were included in this cross‐sectional study. Data were collected using the Standard Health Literacy Questionnaire. Uncontrolled hypertension was defined as systolic blood pressure (BP) ≥ 140 mmHg and/or diastolic BP ≥ 90 mmHg on both days. Data were analyzed using percentages and chi‐square tests. Four machine learning algorithms were employed in this study. The efficacy of these algorithms was assessed using several performance metrics, including accuracy, positive predictive value, sensitivity, F_Score, and the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC). The analyses were performed utilizing Python version 3.8. Of the four models evaluated, logistic regression exhibited the highest accuracy at 75.4% and the greatest AUC at 0.87. According to the logistic regression algorithm, individuals who did not adhere to their treatment had a significantly lower likelihood of having uncontrolled hypertension (OR = 0.17, p value < 0.001). Number of children (OR = 0.44, p < 0.001), physical activity (OR = 0.94, p < 0.001), and health literacy (OR = 0.29, p = 0.10) were all associated directly, and salt intake (OR = 9.60, p < 0.001) was associated inversely with the odds of having uncontrolled hypertension. Based on variable importance analysis, low physical activity was identified as the most important variable, followed by weak health literacy and nonadherence to drug treatment. Factors such as age, duration of hypertension, chronic disease, and salt consumption were also significant. Adherence to treatment, physical activity, health literacy, and salt intake play crucial roles in uncontrolled hypertension. Interventions targeting these factors could help in managing and preventing uncontrolled hypertension.
Fault Diagnosis and Data Reconstruction of Temperature Sensors for Wind Turbine Stator Winding
Authors: Zhou Ling , Zhao Qiancheng , Zeng Jinhui , Zhu Anfeng , Long Xiafei , He Ling
Published: February 2025

A proposed method for diagnosing sensor faults in the stator winding temperature sensor of a wind turbine is introduced, aiming to address the significant issues that arise when such malfunctions occur, affecting the overall stable operation of the turbine. The method combines supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) with an improved firefly sparrow search algorithm (FISSA)–optimized deep belief network (DBN). The input parameters of the model are determined via Pearson’s correlation coefficient method, whereas the exponentially weighted moving average (EWMA) is utilized to detect faults. To ensure system stability in the event of sensor failure, a multi‐input single‐output sensor fault data reconstruction model is proposed on the basis of long‐term and short‐term memory (LSTM) networks, which are further optimized using the seagull optimization algorithm (SOA‐LSTM). An illustrative verification is subsequently conducted using actual data obtained from a wind farm located in Central China. The results of the verification demonstrate that the proposed method can provide an alarm time more than 4 days in advance compared with the actual recording time. It is beneficial for wind farm staff to replace equipment in advance and improve the economic benefits of wind farm operation.
Biomarkers of Radioresistance in Head and Neck Cancer: A New Beginning
Authors: Rao Yuan James
Published: February 2025

The development of biomarkers of radioresistance in head and neck cancer may help personalize treatment. This commentary puts in context the findings of a secondary analysis of NRG/RTOG 9512, a trial of fractionation in T2N0 glottic cancer, which observed that NFE2L2/KEAP1/CUL3 mutations are correlated with local recurrence and disease-free survival.

See related article by Guan et al., p. XX
Sérgio Paulo Rouanet lê Walter Benjamin: uma modernidade sem progresso?
Authors: Gagnebin Jeanne Marie
Published: February 2025

Este artigo é uma tentativa de entender como Sérgio Paulo Rouanet insiste na permanência da tradição iluminista na teoria da modernidade em Walter Benjamin, sendo que a persistência da Aufklärung não acarreta nenhuma hipótese de progresso, mas talvez muito mais a previsão da catástrofe.
O Conselheiro Aires na obra de Paulo Rouanet
Authors: Almino João
Published: February 2025

Este artigo propõe que a “forma shandiana” conceitualizada por Sérgio Paulo Rouanet, em seu livro Riso e melancolia, empregada especialmente às Memórias póstumas de Brás Cubas, também pode ser aplicada aos romances de Machado posteriores a este, inclusive aos dois últimos, cujo “autor” é um diplomata, o Conselheiro Aires. O artigo também resgata o que talvez seja o único texto publicado por Rouanet sobre política externa e internacional, que especula sobre o que seria uma política externa brasileira conduzida pelo personagem de Machado, e analisa as referências à figura de Aires na correspondência de Machado organizada por Rouanet.
Rouanet e o Barroco revisitado
Authors: Maurano Denise
Published: February 2025

My meeting with Rouanet came about through our affinity of interest in the Baroque as an aesthetic expression that is very much in tune with the ethics of psychoanalysis, and in baroquism as a key to understanding the construction of Brazilian culture, contemplating the way in which it took place here the absorption of antithetical elements that, as he highlights, combines Renaissance humanism with the most exalted religiosity, the flesh with the spirit, hedonism with holiness, the earth with the sky.
Looking Back to Look Forward: Leveraging Historical Models for Future-Oriented Caregiving
Authors: Winn Maisha T. , Tottenham Nim
Published: February 2025

What can we - as educators, parents, researchers, community members - learn from independent Black institutions about expansive ways to support the well-being of children and their families? And why and how ought we look back to look forward, regarding caregiving that is culturally relevant and sustaining? Here, we explore independent Black institutions as educational contexts in and through which Identity, Purpose, and Direction were cultivated with intention to support robust learning opportunities. We begin to unpack these rich, historic sites of caregiving with attention to data and messaging around how to nurture children as affirmed and agentive learners, and with respect to the role and value of nested communities that include biological family and invested educators.
A Worldview of Care & a New Economics
Authors: Garlow Elizabeth , Slaughter Anne-Marie
Published: February 2025

This essay draws upon scientific insights around care and caregiving, alongside new economic proposals, to distill a worldview of care. This worldview proceeds from an abstraction of human nature and needs that is both individual and relational, departing from Maslows hierarchy of needs by putting the need for belonging and connection with others on the same plane as self-actualization. In doing so, we reflect on the ways care is only narrowly valued in our status quo economy and current systems of measurement, and encourage a more holistic understanding of value and wealth, rooted in relational terms. We put forth some ideas for how policymaking processes could draw upon a worldview of care to support economic reforms.
Neural substrates underlying multisensory stiffness perception via active touch
and dynamic visual feedback
Authors: Liu Juan , Callan Akiko , Wada Atsushi , Ando Hiroshi
Published: February 2025

Humans perceive the physical properties of objects through active touch to acquire information that is unavailable by passive observation (e.g., pinching an object to estimate its stiffness). Previous functional neuroimaging studies have investigated neural representations of multisensory shape and texture perception using active touch and static images of objects. However, in active visuo-haptic perception, in addition to static visual information from the object itself, dynamic visual feedback of exploratory actions is a crucial cue. To integrate multisensory signals into a unitary percept, the brain must determine whether somatosensory sensation and dynamic visual feedback are congruent and caused by the same exploratory action. The influence of dynamic visual feedback during exploratory actions has not yet been examined, and the neural substrates for multisensory stiffness perception are still unknown. Here, we developed a functional magnetic resonance imaging-compatible device that enables users to perceive the stiffness of a virtual spring by pinching two finger plates and obtaining real-time visual feedback from the finger plate movements. After confirming the integration of visual and haptic cues in behavioral experiments, we investigated neural regions for multisensory stiffness signal processing and action-feedback congruency separately in two functional magnetic resonance imaging experiments. Modulating the stiffness level and contrasting bimodal/unimodal conditions revealed that multisensory stiffness information converged to the bilateral superior parietal lobules and supramarginal gyri, while congruent action-feedback conditions elicited significantly stronger neural responses in the left mid-cingulate cortex, left postcentral gyrus, and bilateral parietal opercula. Further analysis using dynamic causal modeling suggested top-down modulatory connections from the left mid-cingulate cortex to the bilateral parietal opercula and left postcentral gyrus when visual feedback was consistent with finger movements. Our results shed light on the neural mechanisms involved in estimating object properties from active touch and dynamic visual feedback, which may involve two distinct neural networks: one for multisensory signal processing and the other for action-feedback congruency judgment.
The neglected Brazilian moss, Hyophila loxorhyncha (Pottiaceae, Bryophyta), re-emerges as Trichostomum loxorhynchum
Authors: RODRÍGUEZ OMAR , GALLEGO MARÍA TERESA , CANO MARÍA J.
Published: February 2025

The ongoing morphological and molecular analyses of the genus Trichostomum in South America has allowed us to study some specimens from Brazil, Bolivia, and Paraguay that do not match with any Pottiaceae species presently recognized in these countries. We originally identified them as Hyophila loxorhyncha, a neglected taxon known only from the type locality and a few others Brazilian localities. The phylogenetic position of this species is inferred based on the new specimens by the nuclear ITS sequences. This analysis resolves the species in the clade corresponding to the genus Trichostomum, supporting its new combination as T. loxorhynchum. We present a complete description of this species, its distribution map, and its main distinctive morphological characters. Lectotypes are also proposed for Hyophila loxorhyncha and Gymnostomum jamesonii. Trichostomum loxorhynchum is newly reported from Bolivia and Paraguay. The distribution of Tainoa subcucullata is here updated excluding South America.
Taxonomic studies on Zingiber (Zingiberaceae) in China VII: the identity of Z. bambusifolium and a new subspecies
Authors: BAI LIN
Published: February 2025

Zingiber bambusifolium (≡Tupistra bambusifolia), a species described by Augustin Abel Hector Léveillé in 1906, is re-collected from its type locality in Guizhou Province, China, 121 years after it was originally collected. Zingiber lingyunense, which was originally described from Guangxi Province, is confirmed to be conspecific with Z. bambusifolium. A new subspecies, Z. bambusifolium subsp. magenteum, which occurs in southwest Guizhou Province and eastern Yunnan Province is described. It differs from the typical subspecies by labellum and lateral staminodes being pale yellow with a pale to dark purplish red tinge (vs consistently cream in Z. bambusifolium subsp. bambusifolium), broader lamina (3–5 cm vs 1.8–3.5 cm), pale yellow (vs beige to peach coloured or dark purplish black) rhizome and vegetative rhizome units sometimes with a pseudo-neck 1–10 cm long (vs vegetative rhizome units without pseudo-neck).
A New Species of Cephalaria (Caprifoliaceae) from Central Anatolia (Türkiye)
Authors: HAMZAOĞLU ERGİN , GÖKTÜRK RAMAZAN SÜLEYMAN , KAYA ERGUN , ÖZKAYA DAMLA EKİN , YAPAR YAKUP , BEHÇET LÜTFİ
Published: February 2025

Cephalaria kirsehirica (Caprifoliaceae) is here described from Central Anatolia as a new taxon of Türkiye. Morphological and molecular diagnostic characters closely from similar taxa are discussed with support of geographical distribution map. Taxonomic comments, ecology and conservation status for this new species are given. In addition, they are provided genetic data, especially DNA-based data, will be effective in producing more accurate phylogenies and revealing interspecies determinations more reliably. The ISSR technique, one of the PCR-based molecular marker systems, was used to support the morphological characterization of C. elazigensis var. elazigensis, C. elazigensis var. purpurea and C. kirsehirica. Twenty-three ISSR primers were tested for the Cephalaria genus and the six that gave the best band profile were selected. A total of 59 band profiles ranging from 50bp to 1250bp were obtained. According to the analysis of the displayed band profiles, it can be said that C. elazigensis var. elazigensis, C. elazigensis var. purpurea, and C. kirsehirica taxa have a relationship. This result supports the data obtained from morphological analysis.
Urban biodiversity of pseudoscorpions (Arachnida: Pseudoscorpiones) in the conditions of Central Europe
Authors: CHRISTOPHORYOVÁ JANA , RUSINKO ADAM , PURKART ADRIÁN , VIČANOVÁ LUCIA
Published: February 2025

Like other arthropod taxa, pseudoscorpions (Arachnida: Pseudoscorpiones) face challenges in dynamically evolving urban ecosystems. These small predators must find suitable breeding habitats and migrate within fragmented environments. This is compounded by the limitations of their body size and their association with specific ecological conditions. The present study uncovers the pseudoscorpion diversity in Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia. In 1882–2022, pseudoscorpions were collected from 191 sampling sites using various methods. As a result, 5260 pseudoscorpions belonging to 26 species and six families were recorded. Thanks to the newly collected data, two families (Cheiridiidae and Withiidae) and four species, Chthonius ischnocheles (Hermann, 1804), Apocheiridium ferum (Simon, 1898), Mesochelifer ressli Mahnert, 1981 and Withius hispanus (L. Koch, 1873), were documented for the first time in Bratislava. The most abundant species were Neobisium carcinoides (Hermann, 1804) and Lamprochernes chyzeri (Tömösváry, 1882), while the least abundant species were Chthonius ischnocheles and Dendrochernes cyrneus (L. Koch, 1873). Pseudoscorpions were collected from different types of (micro-)habitats, the highest species diversity was found in a substrate (soil, leaf litter) and composts. Only the species Allochernes peregrinus Lohmander, 1939, and Lamprochernes chyzeri were recorded as phoronts attached to Diptera hosts, and only the species Chelifer cancroides (Linnaeus, 1758) occurred in the synanthropic environment including building interiors. Data on European distribution, habitat preferences, and taxonomic considerations are reported. Pseudoscorpion fauna from Bratislava is compared with that of other neighbouring capitals.
Genetic and morphological variation analyses of Dryophytes japonicus (Anura, Hylidae) with description of a new species from northeastern Japan
Authors: SHIMADA TOMOHIKO , MATSUI MASAFUMI , TANAKA KEITO
Published: February 2025

Japanese tree frog, Dryophytes japonicus, formerly known as Hyla japonica, is known to include several geographic groups recognized in mitochondrial phylogeny. By analyzing genetic and morphological variations in a large number of individuals of Dryophytes, we studied their taxonomic relationships. A mitochondrial DNA phylogeny was consistent with previous studies in that a high molecular divergence existed between populations from northeastern Japan and Sakhalin (Clade A) and those from southwestern Japan and Korea (Clade B). Nuclear DNA analyses based on SNP data also support such separation, whereas hybrid populations were found at some localities near the border of mitochondrial clades in Honshu Island, forming a hybrid zone. The width of hybrid zone was estimated to be narrow (approx. 25 km) and the migration rates into/beyond it were relatively low. Those results indicate that two genetic groups have long been parapatrically maintained with a narrow hybrid zone in Honshu Island. We examined syntypes of Hyla japonica and designated lectotypes. In adult morphology, the clades could be differentiated mainly by the pattern of rear of thigh, and the lectotypes proved to be Clade B. From these results, we describe the frogs of Clade A as a new species, D. leopardus sp. nov., distinct from D. japonicus.
The effects of childhood epilepsy training on knowledge and awareness among teachers
Authors: Kuzlu Ayyıldız Tülay , Aktaş Eda , Özsavran Musa , Seval Müge , Üstündağ Mükerrem , Çiftçi Duygu
Published: February 2025

Objective:

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of childhood epilepsy training provided by paediatric nurses to teachers in Türkiye.

Design:

Experimental design.

Setting:

Three primary schools located in Zonguldak, Türkiye.

Methods:

The study took place between October 2022 and June 2023. Thirty teachers were allocated to an intervention group and 30 teachers to a control group. An Information Form, the Childhood Epilepsy Knowledge and Epilepsy Awareness Questionnaire for Teachers, and a Childhood Epilepsy Knowledge and Awareness Booklet for Teachers were used to collect data before the training, immediately after the training, and at 1 month after the training to assess retention. Data were analysed using SPSS for Windows.

Results:

A statistically significant difference was found between the intervention and control group participants’ epilepsy awareness scores for teachers at the first, second and third measurement times ( F = 44.312; p < 0.05). At the second and third measurements in the intervention group, the epilepsy knowledge and awareness scores of participants were higher than the first measurement scores.

Conclusion:

The childhood epilepsy training provided increased the knowledge and awareness of teachers. Providing teachers with accurate information about epilepsy will likely increase the likelihood that teachers are prepared to ensure that seizures occur without harming the child or causing panic; help reduce the difficulties experienced by children with epilepsy in the classroom; and aid in alleviating the concerns of families with children with epilepsy during their time at school.
How Aging and Age-Related Hearing Loss Affect the Recognition of Emotion in Whispered Speech
Authors: Wang Yingyang , Xu Min , Shao Jing
Published: February 2025

Whispering is a common adverse hearing condition. However, it is still unclear whether older adults have more difficulty perceiving emotions in whispered speech, and whether hearing loss contributes to these difficulties. To fill this research gap, we compared emotional prosody perception under phonated and whispered conditions in three groups of participants (younger adults, and older adults with and without hearing loss). The results revealed that both older adult groups were less accurate when processing emotions in whispered speech. Moreover, older adults with hearing loss performed worse than normal-hearing peers and younger adults in both phonated and whispered conditions. This study presented the first empirical data on the ability of older adults with hearing loss to recognize emotions in whispered speech. The findings highlighted the negative impact of whispering on emotional prosody recognition among older adults, with hearing loss exacerbating these difficulties.
Deathbed Phenomena, Other End-of-Life Experiences and Their Effects in Palliative Care Teams: A Systematic Review
Authors: Bertão Manuela , Dalcolmo Úrsula , Rego Francisca
Published: February 2025

The dying process includes many subjective experiences called end-of-life experiences. The author conducted a systematic review following PRISMA guidelines to characterize end-of-life experiences and their effects on patients, families, healthcare professionals, and volunteers in palliative care settings. The databases used were PubMed, PsycInfo, and Web of Science. Of 7095 articles found, 12 met the eligibility criteria. The prevalence of end-of-life experiences ranged from 28 to 87% and dreams and visions were the most reported. Eight common themes were found: end-of-life experiences are not uncommon (100%); end-of-life experiences can be comforting or not (83.3%); spiritual transformation of end-of-life experiences (58.3%); hallucinations and end-of-life experiences (50%); normalization of end-of-life experiences (50%); training of health professionals (41.6%); end-of-life experiences as prognostic indicators (33.3%); contribution of end-of-life experiences in grief (25%). These experiences, whether comforting or distressing, play a therapeutic role in facilitating a peaceful death and aiding the grieving process.
Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy for Individuals With Deafblindness and Progressive Vision Loss
Authors: Laurito Chelsey , DiGiuseppe Raymond , Bridger Ronnie
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Individuals who are deafblind with progressive visual conditions are presented with the challenge of adjusting to the gradual loss of sight and the social, psychological, environmental, and communicative implications relative to that process. Mental health treatment to address these implications with individuals who are deafblind is not widely researched, therefore, exploratory studies are necessary. Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) is an evidence-based treatment that has been successful in addressing a range of symptoms in psychological and medical diagnoses but has not been researched with individuals who are deafblind. Methods: In this multiple baseline design study, the researcher delivered a 6-week REBT intervention to investigate its effect on symptoms of emotional distress, rational and irrational beliefs, and acceptance and adjustment toward vision loss, with three participants who consented to participate. The intervention was conducted on a videoconferencing platform once a week for approximately 60 min per session. Results: Participants effect sizes were as follows: in order of presentation, Outcome Questionnaire (OQ), RIBS Irrational Beliefs Scale (IB), RIBS Rational Beliefs Scale (RB), Acceptance and Self-Worth Adjustment Scale (AS-WAS): participant one = 93%, 98% 100%, and 98%; participant two = 69%, 93%, 56%, and 81%; and participant three = 17%, 38%, 29%, and 47%. The correlation between irrational beliefs and emotional distress was observed in the direction anticipated, but it was not significant among all three participants. Discussion: The intervention resulted in improvement for two out of the three participants, with little improvement observed in one individual. Implications for Practitioners: The study outlines accommodations and modifications to therapy, as well as a an evidence-based treatment that may be helpful to individuals who are deafblind and are experiencing emotional distress secondary to progressive vision loss.
District Pandemic Policies and Teachers’ Perceptions of Their Working Conditions in Virginia
Authors: Miller Luke C. , Langerhans Erica Sachs
Published: February 2025

Background:

The COVID-19 pandemic forced districts to rapidly adjust their policies in ways that altered teachers’ working conditions. Teachers’ perceptions of how conditions changed could impact their well-being, job satisfaction, and organizational commitment.

Purpose:

We examined the relationships between Virginia teachers’ perceptions of how their working conditions changed, district pandemic policies, and teacher outcomes (job satisfaction and organizational commitment), thereby highlighting a potential pathway through which the pandemic may have influenced teacher outcomes.

Research Design and Findings:

This descriptive quantitative study leveraged an early spring 2021 statewide survey ( n = 56,229) and unique data on districts’ COVID-related policies. Some 43.7% felt working conditions had stayed about the same since 2019, 33.4% said they had improved, and 22.9% said they had worsened. Teachers were more likely to blame COVID for worsened working conditions than to credit COVID for improvements. District policies predicted teachers’ perceptions, which were significantly related to their outcomes. Notably, more in-person learning predicted perceptions of worsened conditions, and a positive view of how districts communicated policy changes and facilitated teachers’ safe return to school predicted perceptions of improvements.

Conclusions:

Although no district policy will be viewed positively by all teachers, how districts make and implement decisions will play a role in how teachers respond. Effective communication and ensuring teachers feel safe and supported in schools can help district leaders address divergent views, buffer teachers from stress, and bolster organizational commitment.
Resisting foundations: Politics between determinate negation and the ultimate double bind
Authors: Schneider Nicolas
Published: February 2025

This article develops a critique of the post-foundationalist conception of politics put forward by Oliver Marchart. Confronting the depoliticizations that follow from both the foundationalist insistence on transhistorical foundations and the anti-foundationalist rejection of all foundations as fictions, post-foundationalism casts resistance as determinate negation of concrete political institutions rather than as opposition to phantasmatic totalities. I argue that this precludes the possibility to consider phantasmatic referents (be they divine right, natural law, the nation or the demos) as neither transhistorical/fictional nor exclusively political but to interpret them in terms of a conflict between competing modes of presencing. I elucidate this claim with reference to the work of Reiner Schürmann, which Marchart introduces as an exponent of post-foundationalism but which is better grasped as outlining a ‘para-foundational’ view. In focusing on the ultimate double bind that subtends foundations, Schürmann affords a more comprehensive perspective on the life and afterlife of the Western political and philosophical tradition.
Expected Value of Sample Information Calculations for Risk Prediction Model Validation
Authors: Sadatsafavi Mohsen , Vickers Andrew J. , Lee Tae Yoon , Gustafson Paul , Wynants Laure
Published: February 2025

Background

The purpose of external validation of a risk prediction model is to evaluate its performance before recommending it for use in a new population. Sample size calculations for such validation studies are currently based on classical inferential statistics around metrics of discrimination, calibration, and net benefit (NB). For NB as a measure of clinical utility, the relevance of inferential statistics is doubtful. Value-of-information methodology enables quantifying the value of collecting validation data in terms of expected gain in clinical utility.

Methods

We define the validation expected value of sample information (EVSI) as the expected gain in NB by procuring a validation sample of a given size. We propose 3 algorithms for EVSI computation and compare their face validity and computation time in simulation studies. In a case study, we use the non-US subset of a clinical trial to create a risk prediction model for short-term mortality after myocardial infarction and calculate validation EVSI at a range of sample sizes for the US population.

Results

Computation methods generated similar EVSI values in simulation studies, although they differed in numerical accuracy and computation times. At 2% risk threshold, procuring 1,000 observations for external validation, had an EVSI of 0.00101 in true-positive units or 0.04938 in false-positive units. Scaled by heart attack incidence in the United States, the population EVSI was 806 in true positives gained, or 39,500 in false positives averted, annually. Validation studies with >4,000 observations had diminishing returns, as the EVSIs were approaching their maximum possible value.

Conclusion

Value-of-information methodology quantifies the return on investment from conducting an external validation study and can provide a value-based perspective when designing such studies.

Highlights

In external validation studies of risk prediction models, the finite size of the validation sample leads to uncertain conclusions about the performance of the model. This uncertainty has hitherto been approached from a classical inferential perspective (e.g., confidence interval around the c-statistic). Correspondingly, sample size calculations for validation studies have been based on classical inferential statistics. For measures of clinical utility such as net benefit, the relevance of this approach is doubtful. This article defines the expected value of sample information (EVSI) for model validation and suggests algorithms for its computation. Validation EVSI quantifies the return on investment from conducting a validation study. Value-based approaches rooted in decision theory can complement contemporary study design and sample size calculation methods in predictive analytics.
Facilitating Generative AI Literacy in the Face of Evolving Technology: Interventions in Marketing Classrooms
Authors: Beninger Stefanie , Reppel Alex , Stanton Julie , Watson Forrest
Published: February 2025

The emergence of generative AI (GenAI) has illustrated that higher education needs to adapt to the technology. Its speed of evolution requires that we adequately prepare students for an ever-changing landscape. Toward achieving that aim, we draw on the concept of interpretive flexibility, where the interpretations, uses, and outcomes of a new technology can differ and evolve over time, often with dominant stakeholders controlling the process. To engage marketing students in this process, we propose that they be presented with these diverse interpretations now as part of GenAI literacy. Specifically, we offer three small-scale pedagogical interventions designed to address this urgent need. Given the newness of GenAI, our interventions are designed to be infused into existing marketing instruction, instead of requiring a redesign of a curriculum. With each intervention, students not only significantly decrease their confidence in the accuracy of what GenAI produces but also see reasons to examine the implications of it. Both these outcomes, we suggest, could help to maintain interpretive flexibility required to properly respond to and guide the technology as its uses, impacts, and evolution become evident. We encourage educators to prioritize a comprehensive notion of GenAI literacy in their pedagogy to maintain interpretive flexibility.
Listen Up
Authors: Schwirck Samantha
Published: February 2025

A new headquarters balances the bold style and refined quality of Beats by Dre's products
Reengineering the Workplace
Authors: Falzano Rebecca
Published: February 2025

A venerable engineering firm reimagines itself by promoting a more open corporate culture
Ghosts of the Globe at the Canadian National Exhibition
Authors: Benya James R.
Published: February 2025

Lightning bolts, trap doors into the depths of hell bursts of flame and smoke, “animation” by light and color—all are part of this 2200-cue 32-minute production
Factors Influencing Self-Directed Learning Among Thai Operational Employees in the Petrochemical Sector
Authors: Onsawarng Thitiporn , Wongdee Prapassorn , Pinit Pichet
Published: February 2025

This study examines factors influencing self-directed learning (SDL) readiness among operational employees in Thailand's petrochemical industry, involving 873 participants from six major plants in Map Ta Phut, Rayong. Utilizing the Person, Process, and Context (PPC) model, this research offers a practical framework for identifying and addressing key factors—organizational policies and practices, supervisor support, learning technology, and intrinsic motivation—that shape employees’ SDL readiness. The results identify intrinsic motivation as the predominant factor driving SDL readiness, while learning technology, organizational support, and supervisor support also play significant roles. These findings provide a predictive model that organizations can use to design strategies aligned with adult education principles, fostering a culture of continuous learning. While developed for the petrochemical sector, the model offers valuable insights and a guideline for application in other industries with similar operational employee profiles, helping organizations tailor strategies to effectively enhance SDL readiness in diverse industrial contexts.
Rethinking Sexual Trauma Research: University Students Reactions to Participating in a Sexual Trauma Survey
Authors: Reynolds Megan , Anyadike-Danes Ngozi , Lagdon Susan , Aventin Áine , Flack William F. , McGlinchey Emily , Armour Chérie
Published: February 2025

The consistently high prevalence of unwanted sexual experiences (USEs) on university campuses has led to increasing calls for evidence-based solutions to inform policies, training, and intervention development. However, Research Ethics Committees are often hesitant to approve sexual trauma research due to beliefs that asking participants about traumatic experiences will cause extreme distress. Conversely, previous literature has found that many participants who have experienced sexual trauma report positive reactions following their participation in such research. Studies have found that while immediate negative emotional reactions are common, this distress is short-term (e.g., lasting only minutes or hours after participation). The present study assessed 469 Northern Irish university students’ experiences of participating in research addressing USEs. The findings indicated that participating in USE research was a positive experience for participants, regardless of victimization status. Further, participants who reported a victimization experience did not report experiencing a negative emotional reaction to participating in the study. This article considers the ethics of conducting sexual trauma research among university students, with reference to common ethical concerns that can be addressed as part of the research process.