bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intergenerational social mobility of cohorts born from 1951 to 1980 in Finland
Authors: Ruggera Lucia , Kilpi-Jakonen Elina , Erola Jani
Published: August 2024

Theories of change in social class mobility present contrasting expectations of either change or persistence in mobility as societies develop. This article examines intergenerational social class mobility for cohorts born from 1951 to 1980 in Finland. We analyse change across cohorts in the main association between social origins and destinations and the intervening associations between origins and education and education and destinations. We investigate how the association between education and destinations differs by origins and by education levels to gain a more complete picture of how meritocratic fairness has changed. We employ full population census and register data, using multiplicative log-linear models. The results suggest variations in the association between social origins and destinations over cohorts, which disappear when considering this association net of education. Educational inequalities have decreased for both men and women, whereas returns to education decreased for men but remained stable for women. Behind these relatively straightforward results is more complexity when considering how origins – also across cohorts – moderate class returns to education. These results suggest that the labour market is becoming more similar for individuals at different levels of education or coming from different social classes.
Resurgent Religion, Resurgent Patriarchy? Strictly Observant Religion, Gender, and the State
Authors: Müller Tobias , Dokumacı Pınar
Published: August 2024

A triple transformation is shaping societies around the world: the rise of strictly observant religion, the backlash against gender equality, and the growing influence of neoliberalism and authoritarianism in state affairs. While each of these phenomena has been intensively studied by social scientists, we know very little about their overlapping confluence. This introduction to the Special Issue “Strictly Observant Religion, Gender and the State in the 21st Century” outlines how we might make sense of the increasing traction of liberal sexual politics and the concurrent rise of neo-traditionalist movements. Rather than providing a unified theory, we propose the concept of “strictly observant religion,” a “social system which aims at structuring all aspects of life around strict adherence to religious doctrines”, as defined by Tobias Müller in his contribution to this special issue. As such, it serves as a heuristic tool to study these macro-transformations through thick descriptions of people’s striving, believing, and struggling. By locating the collection’s contributions in current debates and summarizing key insights, we outline possible pitfalls and pathways for future research in the sociology of religion, feminist theory, and political sociology.
Analysis of the Adsorption Behavior of Phenanthrene on Microplastics Based on Two-Dimensional Correlation Spectroscopy
Authors: He Jiyuan , Zhang Han , Yang Renjie , Jin Jianmin , Huang Minyue , Qin Yiyang , Dong Guimei , Yang Fan , Yang Yanrong
Published: August 2024

Microplastics (MPs), an emerging pollutant, widely co-occur with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the environment. Therefore, the interaction between MPs and PAHs has been the focus of much attention in recent years. In this study, three types of MPs, i.e., polypropylene, polystyrene, and poly(vinyl chloride), with the same main chain were selected as the adsorbents, with phenanthrene (PHE) as the representative PAHs. The adsorption mechanisms were explored from the perspective of the molecular spectral level using a combination of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) with a two-dimensional correlation technique. The adsorption kinetics results showed that the adsorption of PHE on the three MPs was dominated by chemisorption. However, the FT-IR analysis results indicated that no new covalent bond was created during the adsorption process. Based on the above research, a generalized two-dimensional (2D) correlation spectral technique was employed to investigate the sequence of functional group changes during the adsorption process for different MPs. Furthermore, the hybrid 2D correlation spectral technique explored the effect of side groups attached to the main chain molecules of MPs on adsorption. The results showed that for all three MPs, the functional groups in the side chain have a higher affinity for PHE, which is due to their higher hydrophobicity. This study provides a feasible way to analyze the adsorption of pollutants on MPs, and the results are important for understanding the adsorption interaction between PAHs and MPs in the aquatic environment.
Feasibility of a Fiber-Dispersive Raman Spectrometer for Biomarker Detection
Authors: Sidorova Mariia , Pavlov Sergey G. , Böttger Ute , Baqué Mickael , Semenov Alexei D. , Hübers Heinz-Wilhelm
Published: August 2024

Raman spectroscopy is among the top analytical techniques for ultra-low-dense organic matter, crucial to the search for life and analysis of celestial body surfaces in space exploration missions. Achieving the ultimate sensitivity of in-situ Raman spectroscopy necessitates a breakthrough in detecting inelastically scattered light. Single-photon detectors (SPDs) operating in photon counting mode, which can differentiate between Raman and luminescence responses, are promising candidates for the challenging scientific requirements. Since large SPD arrays are not yet commercially available, a dispersive element can be adapted to a single-pixel detector. By exploiting chromatic dispersion in optical fibers and picosecond-pulsed excitation, we delay the arrivals of different spectral components onto a single-pixel SPD. This method also separates weak Raman signals from stronger luminescence through correlated time-domain measurements. We study the impact of fiber properties and the excitation wavelength of a pulsed laser on the spectral resolution of the fiber-dispersive Raman spectrometer (FDRS). Additionally, we demonstrate the FDRS’s potential for studying biomarkers and discuss its feasibility for analyzing inclusions in ice matrices.
Coomassie Brilliant Blue G for Smart Colorimetric Determination of the Ionic Surfactants in Triton X-100 Solutions
Authors: Korzhan Liudmyla , Kulichenko Sergey , Lelyushok Serhii , Klovak Viktoriia
Published: August 2024

The conditions for the smart colorimetric determination of cetylpyridinium chloride and sodium dodecyl sulfate by reaction with Coomassie brilliant blue G (CBBG) have been proposed. The nature of the absorption and fluorescence spectra of aqueous solutions of CBBG as a function of acidity has been investigated. A variety of reagent forms and associations with ionic surfactants have been demonstrated. The composition of the associates formed in the CBBG–cationic surfactant system has been established. The increase in the analytical signal of the cationic surfactant and the stabilization of the colloid-chemical state of the system during reactions in the organized medium of the nonionic surfactant Triton X-100 has been demonstrated. These effects are realized through association in premicellar solutions and as a result of the solubilization of components in Triton X-100 micellar solutions. The addition of long-chain cationic surfactants to the reagent occurs with the replacement of the heteroatom proton. The absorption of CBBG–cationic surfactant associates solutions increases with the length of the cationic surfactant hydrocarbon chain. Ethanol additives decrease the aggregation of CBBG. The technique of cationic surfactant determination has been tested in the analysis of the pharmaceutical. The results show that the simplicity of analytical signal registration with satisfactory correctness and acceptably high sensitivity of determination is an advantage of the developed technique.
Selective Detection of Paraquat in Adulterated and Complex Environmental Samples Using Raman Spectroelectrochemistry
Authors: Kavazoi Henry S. , Miyazaki Celina M. , Constantino Carlos J.L. , Martin Cibely S. , Alessio Priscila
Published: August 2024

Growing demand for pesticides has created an environment prone to deceptive activities, where counterfeit or adulterated pesticide products infiltrate the market, often escaping rapid detection. This situation presents a significant challenge for sensor technology, crucial in identifying authentic pesticides and ensuring agricultural safety practices. Raman spectroscopy emerges as a powerful technique for detecting adulterants. Coupling the electrochemical techniques allows a more specific and selective detection and compound identification. In this study, we evaluate the efficacy of spectroelectrochemical measurements by coupling a potentiostat and Raman spectrograph to identify paraquat, a nonselective herbicide banned in several countries. Our findings demonstrate that applying −0.70 V during measurements yields highly selective Raman spectra, highlighting the primary vibrational bands of paraquat. Moreover, the selective Raman signal of paraquat was discernible in complex samples, including tap water, apple, and green cabbage, even in the presence of other pesticides such as diquat, acephate, and glyphosate. These results underscore the potential of this technique for reliable pesticide detection in diverse and complex matrices.
Subsurface Spectroscopy of Thermal Degradation Inside an Inert Plastic Bonded Explosive (PBX) Simulant Using Feedback-Assisted Wavefront Shaping
Authors: Anderson Benjamin R. , Gese Natalie , Eilers Hergen
Published: August 2024

We characterize the subsurface thermal degradation of an inert analog of high-explosive molecular crystals (Eu:Y(acac)3(DPEPO)) (EYAD) embedded inside of a plastic bonded explosive simulant using feedback-assisted wavefront shaping-based fluorescence and Raman spectroscopies. This technique utilizes wavefront shaping to focus pump light inside a heterogeneous material onto a target particle, which significantly improves its spectroscopic signature. We find that embedding the EYAD crystals in the heterogeneous polymer results in improved thermal stability, relative to bare crystal measurements, with the crystal remaining fluorescent to >612 K inside of the heterogeneous material, while the bare crystal’s fluorescence is fully quenched by 500 K. We hypothesize that this improvement is due to the polymer restricting the effects of EYAD melting, which occurs at 400 K and is the primary mechanism for spectroscopic changes in the temperature range explored.
Raman Spectroscopy as an Effective Tool for Assessment of Structural Quality and Polymorphism of Gallium Oxide (Ga2O3) Thin Films
Authors: Spaggiari Giulia , Fornari Roberto , Mazzolini Piero , Mezzadri Francesco , Parisini Antonella , Bosi Matteo , Seravalli Luca , Pattini Francesco , Pavesi Maura , Baraldi Andrea , Rampino Stefano , Sacchi Anna , Bersani Danilo
Published: August 2024

Raman spectroscopy, a versatile and nondestructive technique, was employed to develop a methodology for gallium oxide (Ga2O3) phase detection and identification. This methodology combines experimental results with a comprehensive literature survey. The established Raman approach offers a powerful tool for nondestructively assessing phase purity and detecting secondary phases in Ga2O3 thin films. X-ray diffraction was used for comparison, highlighting the complementary information that these techniques may provide for Ga2O3 characterization. Few case studies are included to demonstrate the usefulness of the proposed spectroscopic approach, namely the impact of deposition conditions such as metal–organic vapor-phase epitaxy and pulsed electron deposition (PED), and extrinsic elements provided during growth (Sn in the case of PED) on Ga2O3 polymorphism. In conclusion, it is shown that Raman spectroscopy offers a quick, reliable, and nondestructive high-resolution approach for Ga2O3 thin film characterization, especially concerning phase detection and crystalline quality.
Effect of Nanoscale Surface Roughness and Electron–Phonon Interaction on Vibrational Modes of Cadmium Telluride Using Resonant Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Medel Ruiz Carlos Israel , Chiu Roger , Casillas Rodríguez Francisco Javier , Sevilla Escoboza Jesús Ricardo , Molina Contreras J. Rafael , Frausto Reyes Claudio
Published: August 2024

This study investigates the combined effects of nanoscale surface roughness and electron–phonon interaction on the vibrational modes of cadmium telluride (CdTe) using resonant Raman spectroscopy. Raman spectra simulations aided in identifying the active phonon modes and their dependence on roughness. Our results reveal that increasing surface roughness leads to an asymmetric line shape in the first-order longitudinal optical (1LO) phonon mode, attributed to an increase in the electron–phonon interaction. This asymmetry broadens the entire Raman spectrum. Conversely, the overtone (second-order longitudinal optical, or 2LO. mode exhibits a symmetrical line shape that intensifies with roughness. Additionally, we identify and discuss the contributions of surface optical phonon mode and multiphonon modes to the Raman spectra, highlighting their dependence on roughness. This work offers a deeper understanding of how surface roughness and electron–phonon scattering influence the line shape of CdTe resonant Raman spectra, providing valuable insights into its vibrational properties.
Photoacoustic Spectroscopy of Titanium Dioxide, Niobium Pentoxide, Titanium:Niobium, and Ruthenium-Modified Oxides Synthesized Using Sol-Gel Methodology
Authors: Dias Daniele T. , Rodrigues Andressa O. , Pires Pietra B. , Semianko Betina C. , Fuziki Maria E.K. , Lenzi Giane G. , Sabino Simone R.F.
Published: August 2024

The aim of this work was the development and morphological/chemical, spectroscopic, and structural characterization of titanium dioxide, niobium pentoxide, and titanium:niobium (Ti:Nb) oxides, as well as materials modified with ruthenium (Ru) with the purpose of providing improvement in photoactivation capacity with visible sunlight radiation. The new materials synthesized using the sol-gel methodology were characterized using the following techniques: scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), photoacoustic spectroscopy (PAS), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The SEM–EDS analyses showed the high purity of the bases, and the modified samples showed the adsorption of ruthenium on the surface with the crystals’ formation and visible agglomerates for higher calcination temperature. The nondestructive characterization of PAS in the ultraviolet visible region suggested that increasing calcination temperature promoted changes in chemical structures and an apparent decrease in gap energy. The separation of superimposed absorption bands referring to charge transfers from the ligand to the metal and the nanodomains of the transition metals suggested the possible absorption centers present at the absorption threshold of the analyzed oxides. Through the XRD analysis, the formation of stable phases such as T-Nb16.8O42, o-Nb12O29, and rutile was observed at a lower temperature level, suggesting pore induction and an increase in surface area for the oxides studied, at a calcination temperature below that expected by the related literature. In addition, the synthesis with a higher temperature level altered the previously existing morphologies of the Ti:Nb, base and modified with Ru, forming the new mixed crystallographic phases Ti2Nb10O29 and TiNb2O7, respectively. As several semiconductor oxide applications aim to reduce costs with photoexcitation under visible light, the modified Ti:Ru oxide calcined at a temperature of 800 °C and synthesized according to the sol-gel methodology used in this work is suggested as the optimum preparation point. This study presented the formation of a stable crystallographic phase (rutile), a significant decrease in gap energy (2.01 eV), and a visible absorption threshold (620 nm).
Detection and Visualization of Minor Irradiation-Induced Changes in Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) by Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Ryzhkova Galina G. , Volkov Vladimir T. , Korepanov Vitaly I.
Published: August 2024

Exposure of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) to argon plasma results in chemical modification of the polymer near the surface. Interestingly, PTFE modification can be induced by the sub-band gap ultraviolet (UV) irradiation. In the latter case, the changes in the chemical structure are very subtle, and they are practically invisible to conventional experimental techniques. Raman spectra of irradiated and raw samples show practically identical peaks. However, the baseline that is commonly considered as an unwanted spectral component contains an important information that reflects the minor structural changes. With the proper data analysis, this allows us to visualize the effects of the argon plasma and sub-band gap UV irradiation on the polymer.
Theoretical and Practical Considerations of Spatially Offset Raman Spectroscopy (SORS) and Micro-SORS
Authors: Lux Alberto , Conti Claudia , Botteon Alessandra , Mosca Sara , Matousek Pavel
Published: August 2024

Spatially offset Raman spectroscopy (SORS) is typically used to non-invasively investigate stratified samples that possess features on a millimeter scale, whereas micro-SORS usually deals with micrometer-thick layered samples. However, there are many instances where these boundaries are intertwined, sometimes indicating the possibility of using both techniques as well as circumstances that present mutual exclusion to their applicability. The aim of this study is to establish an application protocol that provides better insight into their suitability for deployment in various scenarios. The differences and similarities between the two approaches are investigated highlighting their strengths and limitations considering both theoretical and practical aspects. Diverse available parameters entail prospects and restrictions of both techniques and give rise to specific instrumental effects, namely, the overlap between the collection and excitation areas, the percentage of collected area for a given spatial offset, and the accuracy in the definition of the spatial offset (spread effect). These aspects are studied and exemplified on mockup samples relevant to the field of cultural heritage. The samples are characterized by high compositional complexity comprising features ranging from micrometer to millimeter scales. The conclusions reached are also relevant to other scientific areas such as biomedical, forensic, or energy harvest.
Simultaneous Measurement of Two-Trace Two-Dimensional (2T2D) Near-Infrared (NIR) Asynchronous Correlation Spectra and Small-Angle X-ray Scattering (SAXS) to Characterize Thermally Aged Polypropylene (PP)
Authors: Shinzawa Hideyuki , Togo Azusa , Hagihara Hideaki
Published: August 2024

In this study, a new system was developed to carry out simultaneous near-infrared (NIR) and small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) measurements. Aged polypropylene (PP) was examined with the NIR–SAXS system to demonstrate how it can be utilized to derive pertinent information about the polymer structure. Pairs of SAXS profiles and NIR spectra of PP in its initial state and after aging were measured to derive an in-depth understanding of the aging phenomenon. The SAXS profiles of the PP samples showed a clear shift of the SAXS peak to the lower q direction induced by the thermal aging, indicating an increase in the length of the long-period structure. Two-trace two-dimensional (2T2D) asynchronous correlation spectra derived from NIR spectra clearly revealed that the aging treatment leads to a substantial increase in the spectral intensity of the regularity bands representing the longer helix present in a folded lamellar structure. In other words, it suggests that the long helix structure is more abundantly present than the short helix structure in the aged PP than in the initial PP. By combining the information derived from the SAXS profiles and NIR spectra, the details of the aging-induced variation were clearly determined. Namely, aging causes additional crystallization of the PP by developing more helical structures, which involves an increase in the lamellar thickness as well as a decrease in the amorphous region. The growth of the rigid crystalline phase restricts the elastic deformation in the amorphous structure, which eventually induces the deterioration of PP by making the polymer hard but brittle. Such observation, in turn, implies that retarding or accelerating the crystallized structure of PP substantially works to control the progress of aging.
Walking, Talking, or Standing Still? Climate Commitment and Performance in Publicly Listed Firms in Five Major Economies
Authors: Herman Kyle S. , Schiavoni Caterina , Guastella Gianni
Published: August 2024

Recent regulatory interventions are beginning to mandate climate disclosure in listed firms. Although compelling, prior studies demonstrate that firms can symbolically commit to climate and environmental disclosures yet not undertake action. Neo-institutional theory (NIT) suggests that two strategies exist: the legitimacy perspective, which manifests in symbolic efforts, and the efficiency perspective, which is more consistent with substantive efforts. In this article, we apply NIT to assess the climate transition efforts in large, publicly traded firms in five countries with similar regulatory and economic profiles (Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the United States). We gauge climate efforts by membership in corporate climate initiatives (CCIs) and the integration of climate action plans (CAPs). Of the eight CCIs and three CAPs investigated, we find that only two CCIs and one CAP help to improve emissions performance. The majority of firms in our sample, therefore, demonstrate the legitimacy perspective of NIT.
Good Cop, Bad Cop, Black Cop, White Cop: Unraveling Public Perceptions of Police Use of Force
Authors: Dunbar Adam , Hanink Peter A. , Kyle Brandon
Published: August 2024

Participants in this study were presented with a police-citizen interaction involving force but the race of the officer and his prior conduct with the community was varied. Findings show that while varying the race of a police officer does not affect participant judgments about the officer’s behavior, his redeemability, nor his punishment, a significant interaction exists for officer race and his conduct record; a Black officer with a history of commendations was viewed more favorably and a White officer with a history of misconduct was viewed less favorably. Overall, this study highlights the implications of diversifying police departments for public attitudes about police use of force.
Identifying Risky Places on Campus: The Impact of LSC and Fear of Crime
Authors: Bostrom Sarah R. , L. Kramer Kelsey , Randa Ryan
Published: August 2024

The present study examines the association between fear of crime, low self-control, and the identification of risky places on a college campus. Based on self-report data from undergraduate students at a medium-sized Southern university collected during spring 2020, this research investigates how variations in self-control influence perceptions of campus safety. Fear of crime is quantified by aggregating individual perceptions regarding the relative risk of six different possible victimization outcomes while on campus. Our findings reveal that fear of crime and the total number of semesters enrolled are significant predictors of identifying risky places on campus. These results underscore the need for campus administrators to develop targeted safety measures and interventions that address areas perceived as risky by students. This study has important implications for understanding student perceptions of campus safety and informs future research, theoretical frameworks, and practical interventions aimed at enhancing campus security.
Context-Dependent Social Comparison and Imposter Phenomenon: An Experimental Vignette Approach
Authors: Snyder Kate E. , Bartley Maxwell I. , Fowler Allison
Published: August 2024

Recent research into imposter phenomenon, or internal feelings of questioning competence, has shifted away from conceptualizing the feeling as an individual characteristic that requires an individual solution toward instead examining the role of context. We used a 2 (Generational Status: First Generation vs. Continuing Generation) × 3 (Environment: Classroom vs. Peer vs. Administration) × 2 (Social Comparison: Present vs. Absent) experimental vignette design. Overall, we found that, for both first- and continuing-generation students, social comparison messages differentially impacted imposter feelings depending on context, with the most elevated levels in social comparison messages from administrators and peers. Findings contribute to a better understanding of structural conditions that exacerbate or lessen imposter feelings at highly selective post-secondary institutions.
An Exploratory Study of Overlapping Stigmas and Substance Use Stigma Among Women With Substance Use Histories Who are Incarcerated
Authors: Levi Mary M. , Webster J. Matthew , Tillson Martha , Annett Jaxin , Oser Carrie B. , Fanucchi Laura C. , Staton Michele
Published: August 2024

Despite the overwhelmingly negative impacts of substance use stigma, little is known about how multiple, overlapping stigmatized identities, experiences, or characteristics (henceforth stigmas) may be related to perceived substance use stigma, especially in a sample of women who are incarcerated. The current study profiled stigmas reported by women in jail with substance use histories and investigated the relationship between the number of overlapping stigmas reported and perceptions of substance use stigma. Exploratory analyses examined the relationship between each individual stigma and substance use stigma. Findings suggest that individuals who reported more stigmas reported higher substance use stigma scores. Additionally, exploratory results suggested that rurality, transactional sex, injection drug use, methamphetamine use, being diagnosed with a mood disorder, experiencing sexual abuse or assault, and child custody loss were uniquely associated with increased substance use stigma. Results are discussed in terms of implications for stigma interventions and substance use treatment engagement.
A Family-Based Intervention for Early Elementary Students With Reading and Behavioral Difficulties: A Pilot Study
Authors: Roberts Garrett J. , Capin Philip , Handy Anna , Coté Brooke , Jimenez Zaira
Published: August 2024

We created and tested a family-based intervention with families of children in Grades 1 and 2 with reading and behavioral difficulties to investigate its impact on text comprehension. Developed with input from parents, reading experts, and behavior specialists, Family-RISE (Reading Intervention with Supports for Engagement) integrates evidence-based practices for enhancing students’ knowledge of narrative texts with effective behavioral supports to maximize student engagement and minimize disruptive behaviors to help parents engage successfully in shared storybook reading. We assessed the effects of Family-RISE on children’s narrative text comprehension using a multiple-baseline design. A functional relation was established between Family-RISE and narrative text comprehension, indicating Family-RISE substantially improved narrative text comprehension. Furthermore, nonoverlap of all pairs, Tau- U, and standard mean difference effect sizes were all considered large in favor of the intervention. Family members reported that the intervention was highly usable, feasible to implement, and socially valid. These findings underscore the promise of the Family-RISE intervention and the value of developing interventions that simultaneously support reading and behavior for children with co-occurring difficulties in these areas.
“Suffering in Deafening Silence”: Suicide Ideation and Attempted Suicide in the Lives of Incarcerated Rural West Virginia Girls
Authors: Freeman Mackenzie , DeKeseredy Walter S. , Moberly Elizabeth , Currence Beth , Haring Jessie
Published: August 2024

Complex trauma history is one of the incarcerated girls’ most salient characteristics, and two of the most injurious outcomes are suicide ideation and attempted suicide. However, to the best of our knowledge, not one published study has thus far focused on the suicide experiences of rural girls in detention facilities. Guided by theoretical perspectives on females’ pathways into crime and using data derived from in-depth semistructured interviews with 39 girls housed in two West Virginia detention centers, the main objective of this article is to help fill a major gap in the extant literature on rural girls in conflict with the law. The key themes that emerged from qualitative data analyses are sleep deprivation, substance use, and a history of sexual and physical abuse.
Right to “Life”: The Cruel Contradiction of Exceptions to the Death Penalty for Pregnant People
Authors: Trejbalova Tereza , Sufrin Carolyn B. , Kotlar Bethany , Saunders Jennifer , Mason Ellen , Sherman Jenna , Shlafer Rebecca J.
Published: August 2024

The death penalty debate intensifies when condemned women are considered, at least in part because of the associations society holds between womanhood and motherhood. Consequently, the concept of motherhood inherently permeates every condemned woman's sentence. Using qualitative document analysis, we examine how pregnancy is accounted for in the death penalty statutes and execution protocols. In half of U.S. states, exceptions exist in the statutes preventing executions of pregnant people, but pregnancy is rarely mentioned in execution protocols. The findings highlight aspects of reproductive injustice.
“Free Spirits”: A Mixed-Methods Evaluation of an Artistic Intervention Program Targeting Imprisoned People
Authors: Silva Isabel S. , Marques Pedro , Nisa Andreia , Carvalhinho Sandra , Gil Ana , Silva Óscar , Bártolo Ana
Published: August 2024

Research is still needed to promote the development of structured art-based programs in prisons to strengthen socio-emotional skills. “Free Spirits” emerges as an innovative intervention that involves artistic and participatory co-creation dynamics in theater and music. A mixed-method quasi-experimental study was conducted in a Portuguese prison. Using self-report measures (emotional regulation, resilient coping) and a Go/No-Go paradigm (inhibitory control), quantitative data were collected pre- and posttest. A focus group was used to obtain participant’s perceptions. The results suggested the effectiveness of the intervention in promoting more adaptive emotional management strategies and in the improvement of inhibitory control.
Cultivating Innovative Employees: The Influence of Regulatory Focus and Institutional Empowerment
Authors: Tian Guyang , Yang Yang , Zhao Manlu , Tian Yezhuang , Zhang Xue
Published: August 2024

The relationship between regulatory focus, a pivotal trait, and innovative behavior has been long recognized, with previous scholars often emphasizing the reluctance of individuals possessing a prevention focus to engage in innovation due to their risk-averse tendencies. This study introduces a research model proposing that the relationship between promotion focus, prevention focus, and innovation behavior, is positively mediated by knowledge sharing. Additionally, institutional empowerment is posited as a moderating variable that enhances the positive relationship between regulatory focus and knowledge sharing. Empirical investigation of a moderated-mediation model reveals that the impact of regulatory focus on innovation behaviors is mediated by knowledge sharing, with this mediation being more pronounced under conditions of elevated perceptions of institutional empowerment. This research significantly advances the understanding of regulatory focus and its implications for innovation behavior. In addition, it highlights the significance of institutional empowerment as a boundary condition that encourages individuals with diverse regulatory focus to expand their behavioral boundaries. It specifically emphasizes the managerial capacity to leverage the needs and motivations of individuals with a pronounced prevention focus through institutional empowerment, resulting in transformative outcomes even in unfavorable situations.
Pain From a Distance: Can Third-Person Self-Talk Mitigate Pain Sensitivity and Pain Related Distress During Experimentally Induced Pain?
Authors: Gunnarsson Helena , Agerström Jens
Published: August 2024

Pain is self-immersive, leading to a narrow, egocentric focus on the self in the here and now. Preliminary evidence suggests that distancing oneself from the pain can reduce experimentally induced pain. The primary aim of this experimental study was to examine whether a hitherto unexplored, simple self-distancing strategy – “third-person self-talk” – has an analgesic effect on physiological and psychological pain variables. Participants ( N = 292) were randomly assigned to one of four conditions (third-person self-talk, first-person self-talk, and two control conditions). Pain was induced with a cold pressor apparatus and pain tolerance, pain intensity, negative affect and blood pressure were measured for each group. While in pain, participants engaged in strategic self-talk aided by cue-cards. Data were analyzed with univariate planned comparisons. Few significant differences emerged for the third-person self-talk versus the other conditions. It is concluded that third-person self-talk does not seem to have a meaningful effect on physiological and psychological pain variables, although a small effect size could not be ruled out. Practical implications are discussed.

The study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov with the ClinicalTrials.gov ID NCT05511857.
Catholic Diocesan and Religious Priests’ Perceptions of Social Support from Their Fellow Priests, Bishops, and Religious Superiors
Authors: Fitzgerald Caitlin Anne
Published: August 2024

In the wake of the clergy sexual abuse crisis in 2002, the Catholic Church underwent a tectonic shift that affected the well-being of priests and the relationship between bishops and priests. The present study aims to understand how Catholic priests perceive social support from both their fellow priests and their episcopal leaders nearly 20 years after the crisis’ wake as it could potentially have significant implications for the well-being of priests. The data gathered for this article is from in-depth interviews with U.S. Catholic priests ( N = 104) including both diocesan ( n = 70) and religious priests ( n = 34). This article explores the question “How do Catholic diocesan and religious priests perceive support, or lack thereof, from their fellow priests and their bishop or superior?” Our analysis examines the presence as well as absence of vertical and horizontal support among diocesan and religious priests. By further understanding how priests experience social support from those in their organization, we can cultivate better avenues of support for Catholic priests that are specific to their needs and desires which could potentially improve their overall well-being. Some practical implications of this study are discussed which could help aid Catholic leaders and formators in nurturing these kinds of support structures.
Toward a systematic reporting framework for Digital Twins: a cooperative robotics case study
Authors: Gil Santiago , Oakes Bentley J , Gomes Cláudio , Frasheri Mirgita , Larsen Peter G
Published: August 2024

Digital Twins (DTs) can be constructed for many different applications, leading to substantial differences between different case studies. To be able to learn from the challenges and lessons learned by other DT practitioners, it is important that experience reports be consistent to facilitate comparisons. In this paper, we merge three reference description frameworks for DTs, one generated from a systematic mapping study, one generated from an analysis of experience reports, and one from a systematic literature review, to come up with a unified characterization of DT applications. This analysis has identified six non-overlapping and three cross-cutting characteristics in the reference frameworks. This paper showcases the unified characterization with 21 characteristics to report on a DT case study called the Flex-cell, a manufacturing cell with two robotic arms used for cooperative assembly. The generalizability of this unified characterization is validated using a multi-case approach with another case study in robotics and another in the food industry. We call on the DT community to integrate these systematic reporting principles in their future DT experience reports such that other practitioners can learn from each other more effectively.
An inherently reflexive habitus: Navigating lesbian, gay and bisexual lives in Cyprus
Authors: Christofidou Andria , Ierodiakonou Christiana
Published: August 2024

This article advances literature on reflexive habitus in relation to LGB people by demonstrating empirically that habitus and reflexivity can coexist, albeit in very complex ways. The analysis offered relies on interview data with self-identified lesbian women, gay men and bisexual people in Cyprus – a context that is undergoing social change while however preserving its core heteronormative and conservative values. Drawing on LGB people’s experiences, perceptions and practices in this context, the article demonstrates how socio-cultural ideologies and discourses that stigmatise and Other LGB people constrain what they may do while at the same time making them increasingly reflexive. Their reflexive habitus generates constant reflection, self-awareness and reflexive practices, but these practices tend to mainly reproduce existing social structures. And yet, when LGB people find themselves in empowering interactions and relations, they may engage in acts of resistance that challenge and stretch structural boundaries and are often liberating in their ways, portraying thus the complexity of navigating LGB lives in this context. As such, the analysis shows how habitus and reflexivity may coexist and generate post-reflexive practices that are contextually bound and vary in their capacity towards social change.
The Lasting Effects of Terrorism on Hotel Performance: Evidence from Jihadist Attacks in Europe
Authors: Anguera-Torrell Oriol , Boto-García David
Published: August 2024

Despite extant research on how terrorism impacts tourism demand, we still know little about its long-lasting effects and how long it takes for the hospitality industry to bounce back. Moreover, while terrorism deters demand, the effect on prices and revenues is still poorly understood. Rooted on microeconomic and Prospect Theory, this work investigates the causal effects of Jihadist attacks in Europe on five measures of hotel performance: rooms sold, average daily rates, occupancy rates, revenues and revenues per available room. Using monthly panel data from January 2010 to December 2019 for 29 cities, we employ staggered difference-in-differences to uncover the dynamic causal effects of the attacks on hotel performance. Our results reveal that all metrics significantly worsen within the first 6 months after terrorist attacks and require nearly 4 years to recover fully.
Advancing an agenda for psychological assessment in South Africa
Authors: Laher Sumaya
Published: August 2024

Psychological assessment has always been a core part of psychology, but like all other subdisciplines, the applicability of psychological assessments has always been debated. Typically, assessments are developed in the Global North and used in countries across the globe. The universalist assumption and the theories that underpin these assessments has in the last 30 years been challenged. There is an increasing recognition that experiences differ across cultures based on individual and community experiences as well as broader social and political conditions. However, the history of psychological assessment in South Africa is testament not only to a Western psychological import but also to its complicity in upholding an apartheid regime. The 1990s, however, saw profound shifts in psychological assessment in South Africa, but access and distributional challenges have prevailed. Most recently, experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic ensured a hasty transition to online assessments, which provided increased access but perpetuated other inequalities. Reimagining assessment’s role is imperative after three decades of democracy. Drawing from peer-reviewed research and personal experiences in assessment, this article provides a historical overview of global and local assessment, highlighting South Africa’s journey. It discusses current assessment challenges and progress, emphasizing inclusion, indigenization, and innovation. This article advocates for an agenda prioritizing accessibility, relevance, and responsiveness to societal needs in South African psychological assessment.
Evaluating the Importance of Mentoring in Undergraduate Research Education Programs
Authors: Edwards Nishika T. , Goodwin Richard L. , Mcphail Brooks , Fowler Lauren A. , Lowe Larry Lenard , Driggins Steffani , Igwe Nnenna Chidinma , Harris Randall H. , Shorter Kimberly , Gao Zhi , Chosed Renee J. , Khalil Mohammed K. , Nathaniel Thomas I.
Published: August 2024

The National Institute of Health R25 Research Education Program was evaluated in the second year of implementation. Twelve mentors and 20 underrepresented minority students (URMs) scholars from partnerships and collaborations among five colleges and universities were added to the program to provide a more diverse research experience. Findings reveal that 100% of research mentors agree that the approachableness and accessibility of the program coordinator were beneficial in achieving mentorship goals and objectives. In addition, 85% of the students strongly agreed that the presentation of their research findings and the weekly reflection on goals, identification of accomplishments, and obstacles through the individual development plan were very effective. Of the 23 successfully tracked students for 2 years, six URMs (26.09%) obtained a bachelor's degree and were admitted into a graduate program; two were directly admitted to a PhD program in biomedical sciences.
An Innovative Approach to the Psychology Capstone Course
Authors: Bitz Kristi L. , Hair Rodney
Published: August 2024

Background

While capstone courses are popular among psychology programs, the capstone course design at a small private Midwestern university seems less conventional.

Objective

Along with meeting five course objectives, the course addresses understanding vocation, identifying academic and career strengths and weaknesses, identifying talents and gifts, articulating goals, defining servant leadership, knowing what it takes to persist in college and what career to pursue, and understanding purpose and calling.

Method

Students completed a 10-item questionnaire addressing the aforementioned items on the first and last days of class during four consecutive fall offerings of the Senior Capstone in Psychology course.

Results

Analysis of pre and posttest data revealed high confidence in positive change from the beginning to the end of the semester on every item measured.

Conclusion

Significant perceived student growth among each of the 10 questionnaire items was evident.

Teaching Implications

Institutions that wish to aid in the development of students related to vocation, servant leadership, and calling may want to consider the course design.
Green mechanism: Opportunities for corporate investment in PV/battery/diesel hybrid systems with techno-economic and environmental analysis
Authors: Omar Moien A
Published: August 2024

In rural areas, diesel generators are prevalent due to their lower initial cost, despite inefficiencies and carbon emissions. Transitioning to PV/Battery/Diesel systems offers a solution by reducing costs and emissions. However, the high upfront expenses present a significant barrier, particularly for rural communities, necessitating external financial support. This study evaluates the benefits of adopting a PV/Battery/Diesel hybrid system over traditional diesel generators in a rural community with 25 customers and a daily demand of 50 kWh. The proposed system includes a 12 kWp photovoltaic array and a 48 kWh battery bank, simulated using Hybrid Optimization of Multiple Energy Resources (HOMER) software. Results indicate a 91% renewable fraction and a cost of energy of 0.279 USD/kWh, substantially lower than the 1.05 USD/kWh of diesel-only systems, with CO2 savings of 25 t per year. The paper advocates for a case study approach to green mechanism, urging energy and environmental companies to invest in these systems. By replacing diesel generators with hybrid PV/Diesel/Battery systems, companies can offer electricity at a reduced cost, driving adoption. Selling carbon credits from emission savings can generate additional income, leveraging CO2 tax incentives. Under scenarios where investors cover 50% of diesel costs, selling electricity yields 9581 USD annually, and selling CO2 credits generates 500 USD annually. This leads to a payback period of 9.83 years without CO2 credits and 9.18 years with CO2 credits, totaling 46,848 USD without CO2 credits and 52,927 USD with CO2 credits over the project's lifespan. Meanwhile, adjusting electricity pricing to 75% of diesel costs, this increases annual income from electricity sales to 14,372 USD. This reduces the payback period to 5.89 years without CO2 credits and 5.66 years with CO2 credits, totaling 105,094 USD without CO2 credits and 111,174 USD with CO2 credits at the end of the project.
Dissolving Boundaries, Fostering Dependencies. the new Forensic Genetics Assemblage
Authors: Wienroth Matthias , Granja Rafaela
Published: August 2024

New and emerging forensic genetics technologies offer significant insight into personal information, changing the way that policing and criminal justice uses of such technologies are being considered and legitimized. In this article, based on data from Central and Western European countries and the United States of America, we analyze how the compounding, interdependent effects of four such technologies—massive parallel sequencing, forensic epigenetics, forensic DNA phenotyping, and forensic genetic genealogy—facilitate the dissolving of boundaries between forensic and medical, as well as between commercial and non-commercial domains. Mobilizing social epistemology and epistemic culture as dual analytical lens, we argue that we can witness the emergence of an increasingly complex forensic genetics assemblage, fostering dependencies between policing agencies, research scientists, and commercial companies. At the heart of this assemblage lies the transformation of central knowledge claims and distinct roles and responsibilities defining the legitimate application of genetics data and information in policing contexts. The dissolving of boundaries and deepening of co-dependencies within the assemblage encourage increased self-governance between the key stakeholders, to the detriment of the field's societal accountability and legitimacy. The discussion in this article provides a necessary starting point for reframing the discussion of forensic genetics’ governance.
Press Freedom, State Interests, and a Murder Case: Editorial Coverage of Jamal Khashoggi in the Washington Post
Authors: Ismail Amani , Torosyan Gayane
Published: August 2024

The October 2018 killing of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi was a highly publicized event worldwide, shedding light on critical issues such as journalists’ safety, US-Saudi relations, press freedom, and democratic values. This study is a critical discourse analysis of editorials published in the Washington Post after Khashoggi's disappearance. Key themes emerging from the analysis include the dilemma between press freedom and the strategic interest in preserving good U.S. – Saudi relations, detecting the political motive behind Khashoggi's murder, and the role of media as fourth estate.