bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Underemployment, Compensation Dissatisfaction, Job Turnover, and Salary Change: How Are Post-9/11 Veterans Doing Three Years after Leaving the US Military?
Authors: Davenport Katie E. , Morgan Nicole R. , Balotti Brandon A. , Aronson Keith R. , Perkins Daniel F.
Published: September 2024

Post-9/11 veterans transitioning from the service face significant risks of underemployment, with many leaving their jobs within their first year of employment. Underemployment is associated with well-being challenges for veterans, and job turnover is costly to employers. Based on two waves of data from a large longitudinal dataset of transitioning veterans three years post-discharge, this study investigates their perceptions of underemployment and compensation dissatisfaction alongside job turnover. The study also explored how salary changes are related to these perceptions and examined whether salary and perceptions are moderated by job turnover. Of the 1,972 veterans in the analytical sample, 55% did not perceive underemployment or compensation dissatisfaction, yet nearly 10% reported both challenges. Key findings indicate that veterans experiencing underemployment and compensation dissatisfaction are more likely to seek better opportunities elsewhere, leading to substantial salary increases after leaving their initial jobs. Further, those reporting underemployment and dissatisfaction were substantiated as those reporting these challenges had significantly lower salaries. This validates the notion that underemployment prompts veterans to seek alternative employment, underlining the importance of effective pre-separation military transition programs with robust employment components. Enhancing pre-separation military transition programs with effective employment components and tailored support strategies could assist veterans. Policy recommendations include evaluating transition programs for effectiveness and ensuring sustained support beyond the transition period to facilitate successful employment outcomes.
The Thin Blue Line: Perspectives From Military Veteran Police Officers on Camaraderie and Cooperation
Authors: Medeiros Steve S.
Published: September 2024

By comparing their experiences in both occupational cultures, US military veterans who also served as civilian police are positioned to provide insight into the causal mechanisms of intense social bonds like psychological kinship—when individuals conceive of their (non-biologically related) in-group members as “family” (Bailey, 1988). Two prominent explanations for this kind of intense group bonding are either through the sharing of “suitably” dysphoric (i.e., traumatic) experiences causing group member’s individual identity and group identity to “fuse,” becoming interwoven and porous leading to psychological kinship—a concept called identity fusion (Reese & Whitehouse, 2021; Whitehouse, 2018); or a mapping of primary group status onto fellow soldiers, sergeants, and officers through prolonged and intimate physical and psychological proximity, a foundational concept called spatial proximity (Shils & Janowitz, 1948). These theoretical frameworks have been explored exclusively independent of each other. This study uses a novel approach by intentionally combining and applying a unified model: identity fusion + spatial proximity = psychological kinship, to explore whether the explanatory power of these concepts is increased when conjoined. In this exploratory, comparative study, qualitative, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 18 military veterans of the US armed forces who also served as civilian police officers to contrast their social experiences in the military with their social experiences serving as police officers. Participant interviews support that the theoretical models have more explanatory power together than separately.
How important is community to mathematics and statistics distance learners?
Authors: Brown Cath , Pawley Susan
Published: September 2024

Being part of a community has been shown to support the development of academic resilience, promote retention and improve attainment. This paper discusses the findings of a study which investigated the importance and experience of student communities for distance learning students currently studying mathematics and statistics modules. It was found that community with students on the same module or on similar degrees was the most important, whilst community with students in the same faculty; at the same university; with similar characteristics and with students in general were less valued. The proportion of students that felt community was important was significantly higher than those that felt part of a community. Students near the end of their degree felt community within a module was more important than students who had recently started, but felt other community groups were less relevant. Equally, students near the end of their degree were more likely to feel part of a community with others studying the same module than students at the start of their degree. Qualitative responses reinforced the priority of community with students on the same module but indicated a significant proportion of students had no interest in community, and there was notable variation in student views on how community could be generated.
Generative AI in Assessment: Towards Understanding the Student View
Authors: Haddley Joel Anthony , Ardito Cesare Giulio
Published: September 2024

This case study reports on an intervention that took place within a second-year mathematics module at a higher education institution in the United Kingdom. Prior to completing an essay, students were supported to understand potential benefits and risks of using Generative AI to aid their process. Students were allowed unpenalised use of Generative AI to complete this assessment. They were interviewed to gain an understanding of how they used this technology, and their perceptions of it. A small sample (n=3) allowed for in-depth exploration. All participating students reported using Generative AI in ways which developed their critical awareness of the technology, and the authors believe that the overall value of the assessment to students was enhanced. The case study ends with recommendations for integrating Generative AI into assessment, and directions for further study in this rapidly developing field.
Synthesis, diagnosis as well as Biological activity studies of some metal ion complexes of Schiff Bases Derived from 4-aminoantipyrine
Authors: F. Mohammed Amera , A.Saeed Israa , Sh.AL-Nama Khansaa
Published: September 2024

قواعد شيف متعددة السن ذوات الصيغة L1= اورثو هايدروكسي انيلين -٤ - امینو انتبيرين N',N) بنزیلیدین) تم تحضيرها من تكثيف البنزايل و٤-امينو انتيبرين مع ۲-امينو فينول -۲،۱ امينو ٤ كلورو فينول بنسبة مولية (١:١:١) لكل مكون . واستخدمت هذه الليكاندات لتحضير المعقدات ذوات الصيغة [ML1 Cl]Cl و [ML2]Cl2 حيث ان  Zn(II) M= Mn(II), Co(II), Ni(II),. تم استخدام التقنيات التالية لتشخيص الليكاندات والمعقدات: مطيافية الاشعة فوق البنفسجية والاشعة تحت الحمراء - المرئية وطيف الرنين النووي المغناطيسي للبروتون 1HNMR والتحليل الدقيق لايونات العناصر والكاربون والهيدروجين والنتروجين بالاضافة الى التوصيلية الكهربائية المولارية وقياسات الحساسية المغناطيسية. دلت القياسات التي تم الحصول عليها من التوصيلية الكهربائية المولارية والتي تم اجراؤها بمحلول DMSO ان جميع معقدات (L1) كانت الكتروليتية بنسبة (١:١) بينما معقدات (L2) كانت الكتروليتية بنسبة (1:2). كما اظهرت نتائج القياسات المستخدمة في هذه الدراسة ان مواقع التناسق لليكاند (L1) مع الأيون المركزي كانت من خلال ذرة الاوكسجين الفينولية وذرتين نيتروجين لمجموعتي الازوميثين اما بالنسبة لـ (L2)فبالاضافة للذرات المانحة المذكورة سابقا يتم التناسق مع ذرة الاوكسجين لمجموعة الكاربونيل الطرفية. جميع المعقدات اظهرت التناسق الرباعي بشكل هندسي رباعي السطوح ايضا تمت دراسة الفعالية البايولوجية للمركبات المحضرة ضد البكتريا موجبة الكرام (+)Staphylococcus aurous وسالبة الكرام (-) Klebsiella pneumonia.
Minority of a deed provided for by the criminal law: praxis legis, guae debet esse
Authors: Sverchkov V. V.
Published: September 2024

Objective: to develop scientifically substantiated provisions on the insignificance of a deed provided for by the criminal law and to propose measures to improve legislation and law enforcement in this area.

   Methods: dialectical approach to cognition of social phenomena, allowing to analyze them in development and functioning, which contributed to the use of the following research methods: a) general scientific (logical, systemic, analysis and synthesis, induction and deduction), b) special (documentary, practical, comparative-legal, formal-legal).

   Results: the work substantiates the conclusion that the recognition by an inquirer, investigator, prosecutor, judge of the insignificance of a deed provided for by the criminal law should be based on the following information: about the occurrence of all elements and signs of corpus delicti in the deed; about the infliction of small (minor) harm to law-protected interests in conjunction with the intent of the perpetrator aimed at causing such, including the lack of desire to cause harm, which excludes the existence of a reasonable amount of criminal-law harm. It is proposed to supplement Part 1 of Article 24 of the Russian Criminal Procedure Code with a new ground for refusal to initiate criminal proceedings (termination of criminal proceedings), namely, the insignificance of the deed, and to consider it as a circumstance excluding criminal prosecution of a suspect (accused).

   Scientific novelty: the following means to distinguish a minor act from a crime were substantiated: a) the introduction of the “reasonable amount of criminal-legal harm” category in the investigative and judicial practice, b) the need for law enforcement to establish objective and subjective conditions of minor significance of the deed, c) the proposal on modernizing the criminal-procedural legislation.

   Practical significance: the main provisions and conclusions stated in the article can be used in scientific, pedagogical, law-making, investigative and judicial activity when considering the issues of application and improvement of the norm on the insignificance of a deed provided for by the criminal law, on the delimitation of such deed from a crime.
Challenges and Solutions in Implementing Electronic Prescribing: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Borhani Neda , Hooshmand Elahe , Zarqi Marzie , Meraji Marziyhe
Published: September 2024

Background
The use of electronic prescribing is recognized as a strategic tool for improving healthcare. Given the nationwide implementation of electronic prescribing systems initiated in 2020, this study aims to explore the challenges and solutions for implementing electronic prescribing in Iran's health system as a developing country.
Methods
This qualitative study was conducted through interviews with physicians, pharmacy staff, and electronic prescribing representatives in 2023. Initially, three in-depth interviews were conducted to develop the interview questions, resulting in three separate interview guides for each participant group (supplementary file no.1 ). Participants were purposively selected, including 12 physicians, 15 electronic prescribing representatives, and 9 pharmacy staff members. Interviews continued until data saturation was reached. The interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using content analysis with MAXQDA version 10 software. To identify challenges, sessions were held, and a final list of challenges was categorized. In the final stage, expert panels were formed to propose solutions.
Result
The challenges identified in this study were categorized into two main domains: "Organizational Challenges" and "Systemic Challenges." Organizational challenges included issues related to insurance (16 cases), patient referrals (4 cases), stakeholder education and communication (6 cases), and supervision (8 cases). Systemic challenges included infrastructure problems (18 cases), user interface (UI) issues (14 cases), and database issues (10 cases). The primary challenges in implementing electronic prescribing were system downtime and sluggishness, internet connectivity issues, and the existence of multiple insurance systems. Expert panel discussions resulted in proposed solutions, including the uniform design of software by the Ministry of Health, the establishment of an integrated electronic referral system, conducting practical training sessions for physicians, and implementing electronic signatures.
Conclusion
Electronic prescribing in Iran is still in its early stages and will inevitably face challenges and problems. Continuous monitoring of electronic prescribing systems is essential to address implementation issues promptly. Overall, improvements in infrastructure, integration of insurance systems, implementation of electronic signatures, adherence to electronic prescribing standards, and provision of practical training are recommended.
Development and in vitro/in vivo evaluation of taste-masked orodispersible films of dapoxetine hydrochloride using ion exchange resins
Authors: Zhou Ying , Yan Peng , Zhao Xiangcheng , Zhang Hailong , Yang Yan , Ding Jinsong
Published: September 2024

Dapoxetine hydrochloride tablets are the most commonly used drug for the treatment of premature ejaculation (PE). However, there exists a limitation about medication with water, thereby decreasing patient compliance. This study aimed to develop taste-masked orodispersible films (ODFs) of dapoxetine hydrochloride using ion exchange resins. It was found that the based-Kyron T-134 resin complex achieved a high drug loading rate of 75.9 ± 1.4%, establishing the mass ratio of dapoxetine hydrochloride to Kyron T-134 at 2:1, and adjusting the solution pH to 5.4 ± 0.05. The effect of pH on the drug loading of the resin was initially characterized by SEM, while the binding mechanism between dapoxetine hydrochloride and the resin was investigated by XRD, DSC, and FTIR. The ODF exhibited favorable mechanical properties and palatability. Meanwhile, the drug release could reach 100.8% of the drug over 15 minutes in a simulated gastric environment medium. Furthermore, pharmacokinetic studies conducted in healthy volunteers demonstrated that the ODF was bioequivalent to commercially available tablets Priligy®. Therefore, this ODF, characterized by its pleasant taste and water-free administration, offers a novel and convenient oral formulation for patients with PE, thereby enhancing patient compliance.
It was like I was in my own world: -- a qualitative inquiry of patients using virtual reality to mitigate cancer pain
Authors: Groninger Hunter , Ali Nadia , Gomes Kylie , Violanti Diana
Published: September 2024

Background: Virtual reality (VR) is a rapidly evolving technology that has been shown to improve pain severity in different disease states, including cancer. To date, VR pain studies have used off-the-shelf products for pain distraction. What are user preferences for VR content to mitigate cancer pain?
Objective: Through qualitative inquiry, to explore and understand user preferences for VR distraction therapies to mitigate cancer-related pain.
Methods: We conducted semi-structured interviews of 12 patients participating in a VR cancer pain therapy clinical trial. Using a grounded theory approach, emerging themes and subthemes were analyzed to elucidate patient experiences and preferences for VR content.
Results: Participants described distinct themes related to VR use, specifically experiences of immersion, distraction, relaxation, and safety. Higher experience of immersion and distraction were associated with improvement in cancer pain severity. Some participants had to adapt to VR technology to use it successfully. Regarding future VR content development, participants voiced preferences for content related to home, childhood, natural environments, and family and friends.
Conclusion: Patients associate higher levels of virtual immersion and familiar, natural virtual experiences with successful VR distraction therapy for cancer pain analgesia.
A new powerful magnetic dark catalyst based on rGO/Fe3O4/CdSe nanocomposite for ultrafast degradation of methylene blue dye
Authors: Moghanlou Afrasiab Salehi , Molaei Mehdi , Tao Fang
Published: September 2024

In the present study, rGO/Fe3O4/CdSe as a dark catalyst material was synthesized by a refluxing method. The synthesized magnetic nanocomposites were studied by various analyzes such as Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), X-ray diffractometer (XRD), Raman, Zeta and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). XRD, EDS, FESEM and FTIR spectra showed that the nanocomposites were successfully synthesized. Absorption spectrum was used to determine the dark catalyst activity of rGO/Fe3O4/CdSe nanocomposite. Analysis of the absorption spectrum showed that the prepared nanocomposites degrade the MB organic dye completely after 2 min of stirring in the dark, also doing experiment at different pH showed that the best performance for the degradation of MB occurs in neutral and alkaline media. The Raman spectrum analyzes showed that the Fe3O4/CdSe QDs were correctly incorporated on the reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanosheets. Zeta potential analysis showed that rGO/Fe3O4/CdSe has a large amount of negative charge on its surface, also the radical scavenger experiment showed that electrons play an essential role in the process of degradation. VSM analysis showed that the prepared nanocomposites have excellent superparamagnetic behavior, this advantage enables the easy collection of nanocatalysts by magnets from wastewater after dye degradation.
Effects of Palpilectomy on Feeding and Gut Enzymes Activities of Adult Male Variegated Grasshoppers (Zonocerus Variegatus) (L).
Authors: Ademolu Kehinde Olutoyin , Odeyemi Gideon , Egbebi Joseph , Idowu Adewunmi Babatunde
Published: September 2024

Palps are used to feel, taste and manipulate food by insects. Palpilectomy is the experimental removal of the palp. This study was carried out to examine the significance of the palps and the effect of its absence on the feeding habit and gut digestive enzymes of the variegated grasshopper, Zonocerus variegatus. Sixty adult male Zonocerus variegatus (3-5 days after adult emergence) were used. The grasshoppers were divided into three groups comprising insects with : intact palps, labial palps removed and all palps removed. They were fed daily with freshly cut cassava leaf (Manihot esculenta) for 30 days. Records of leaves’ weights were taken for feed intake. The activities of three digestive enzymes, namely: amylase, lipase and proteinase were determined. Feeding rate and morphometrics study done showed significant differences among the groups. The group with without labial palp showed significantly higher feed intake. Result from the biochemical analysis showed all enzymes were detected in the insect’s gut regions; however, there were no significant differences in the activities of the three enzymes from various gut regions in three experimental groups. Palpilectomy (palp removal) affects the feed intake (leaf destruction capability) and weight gain with insignificant effect on the activities of the digestive enzymes in the gut regions of Zonocerus variegatus.
Analysis of Rhizosphere microbial community structure and production performance of different maize varieties
Authors: Wang Guihua , Feng Shilin , Han Xiaodong , Lv Qiushi , You Yanhua , Huang Tiantian , Zhao Guofen
Published: September 2024

Aims: To clarify the rhizosphere microbial community structure of different maize varieties and its relationship with yield traits.
Methods: The rhizospheremicrobial community structure of seven maize varieties was analysed at seedling and staminate stages using high-throughput sequencing of 16SrDNA and ITS rDNA amplicons to determine maize yield traits and their correlation studies.
Results: Compared with the seedling stage, the relative abundance of Aspergillus phylum and Anaplasma phylum decreased more, Acidobacter phylum bacteria increased more, Sphingomonas spp. and Marseille spp. decreased more, and Acidobacterium RB41 increased more in the same varieties at the male pumping stage. At the male-drawing stage, the relative abundance of Acidobacter RB41 was the highest in all varieties except variety 8; the relative abundance of Sphingomonas spp. was the lowest in variety 2 and the highest in variety 8. The relative abundance of Ascomycetes phylum was the highest in all seven varieties, with the highest in variety 2 at the male-drawing stage, and the male-drawing stage was higher than that at the seedling stage in all varieties except variety 14. s_Pedobacter panaciterrae was positively correlated with yield, s_Spartobacteria bacterium was positively correlated with number of ears,s_Microdochium bolleyi was negatively correlated with water content, and s_ Podospora multipilosa was positively correlated with number of ears.
Conclusion: s_Pedobacter panaciterrae, s_Spartobacteria bacterium have positive role in yield traits, which provides theoretical basis for further development of microbial fertiliser for maize yield increase.
Phytotoxic effects of tropospheric ozone altered by elevated levels of CO2 in Indian mustard for Sustaining production
Authors: JawaharJothi Gayathri , Sharma DK , Bhatia Arti , Boomiraj Kovilpillai , Antille Diogenes L. , Kumar Sudhir , Prasad Manjunath , Suroshe Sachin Suresh , Dunna Vijay
Published: September 2024

Tropospheric ozone is the most important air pollutant of global concern since it affects crops negatively by causing oxidative damage. The increased levels of carbon dioxide positively impacted the C3 plants. The impacts of elevated O3 and CO2 on most crops have been studied, but the information in relation to the interactive effects of O3 and CO2 is still limited and elusive in Indian mustard. Thus, the study was aimed at quantifying the impacts of elevated O3 (Ambient + 25±5 ppb) and CO2 (550±10 ppm) along with their interaction on different winter mustard varieties, to elucidate their response towards growth and yield parameters as well as photosynthetic activity and stomatal behaviour for two seasons (2020-21 & 2021-22). The photosynthetic activity in mustard declined by about 16%, crop index by 15% and seed yield by 24% under elevated O3 treatments. Contrarily, the CO2 enrichment treatments nullified the O3 effects on yield by a maximum of 17% in PDZM 31 followed by 14% in Pusa Bold and 13% in PM 30. The elevated levels of ozone reduced stomatal conductance, and the photosynthetic activity offsetted by elevated CO2 acts as a defensive mechanism to avoid the entry of O3 into leaf tissues and restrict the production of reactive oxygen species. Thus, the current interaction studies revealed that the strong oxidative damage caused by elevated O3 was reduced by elevated CO2 in mustard varieties and discussed in detail.
Impact of extracts from three durable tropical woods from Côte d'Ivoire (Nauclea diderrichii, Mansonia altissima, Milicia excelsa) on Spodoptera frugiperda Smith, 1797 (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) larvae in the laboratory
Authors: Bley-Atse Bley Appolinaire , Adja Armand Nahoulé , Niamké Florence Bobelé , Ramananantoandro Tahiana , Danho Mathias , Abo Kouabenan , Amusant Nadine , Adima Amissa Augustin
Published: September 2024

Maize, the staple food of many populations, is suffering major losses due to Spodoptera frugiperda. Chemical pesticides were being over-used to control this pest. But to preserve the ecosystem, it’s important to test products with a low ecological impact. Study aims to evaluate the impact of hydroalcoholic extracts of three tropical woods Badi (Nauclea diderrichii), Bete (Mansonia altissima) Iroko (Milicia excelsa) on the larvae of S. frugiperda, the main pest of maize. Different parameters be evaluate: larval mortality rate, LD50, pupation duration, rate of leaves consumed by the larvae, larval mortality rate. Young larvae were collected from untreated maize plants in field. Three doses evaluated (0.04; 0.08 and 0.1g/mL) of sapwood and heartwood extracts proved effective. Heartwood extracts were more effective than extracts from the sapwood at the 0.04g/mL dose. Contrarily, the sapwood extracts of Badi and Bete were significantly (p < 0.05) more effective than those of heartwood at the 0.08 and 0.1g/mL (100% death larvae at the first day). LD50 of sapwood extracts were 0.0535; 0.0419 and 0.0219 g/mL, respectively for Badi, Bete, Iroko. LD50 of heartwood extracts were 0.3535 (Badi) and 0.0283 g/mL (Bete). Pupation duration was longer for larvae exposed to sapwood (0.04g/mL) and shorter for those treated with duramen (0.08g/mL). Badi and Iroko sapwood (0.08g/mL) had the best antifeedant activity (0% leaves consumed). Insecticidal activity could be explained by the presence of secondary metabolites: alkaloids, flavonoids, polyphenols, tannins, observed in extracts. Studied wood extracts could be use in the formulation of bioinsecticides for sustainable control crop pests.
Potency of ethanolic leaf extracts of Tithonia diversifolia (Hemsl.) A. Gray against the plant pathogen Alternaria brassicicola (Schwein) Wiltshire
Authors: Chuzho Kuno , Bhem Wandashisha Lyngdoh
Published: September 2024

Antifungal potency of Tithonia diversifolia leaf extracts against the plant pathogen Alternaria brassicicola has been investigated using three solvents: acetone, ethanol and methanol at different concentrations (60%, 80% an 99.9%). Out of the three solvent extracts used, ethanolic extract showed maximum inhibition zone at all concentrations studied, with the inhibition zones ranging from 0.4 to 1.9 mm. Acetone extract showed slight inhibition at 80% concentration as compared to its control whereas, methanolic extract showed slight inhibition at 100% concentration. Zone of inhibition by ethanol as control showed 0.3, 0.5 and 0.8 mm at 60%, 80% and 99.9% respectively, whereas, ethanol plus plant extract showed zone of inhibition measuring 0.4, 0.7 and 1.9 mm respectively, which is higher than their respective control concentrations. This indicates that ethanolic leaf extract of T. diversifolia has high potency against the test plant pathogen A. brassicicola. There was no inhibition zone observed for 60% acetone, indicating that 60% acetone leaf extract of T. diversifolia may not be effective against the test pathogen.
On the origin of Accretion flow Photon index–Quasi-Periodic Oscillation frequency (Γ– vQPO) relation
Authors: EZE Ambrose C. , EZE Romanus N. C. , CHUKWUDE Augustine. E. , MADU Fidelis Okey
Published: September 2024

MAXI J1535−571 outburst was dramatic and the accretion flow exhibits spectra-temporal characteristics related to one another. In this study, MAXI J1535−571 data observed by SWIFT/BAT (Swift/Burst Alert Telescope) and MAXI/GSC (Monitor of All-sky X-ray Image/Gas slit camera) was analyzed. The physical and phenomenological models that explains the components of the accretion flow were adopted in fitting/modelling the data in XSPEC v12.10.1f. The accretion flow characteristics and photon index–Quasi-Periodic Oscillation frequency (Γ–vQPO) relation were determined, and their correlations were statistically significant. The resonance condition in the range of (0.5076– 1.2481) ± 0.0802 indicates that the components of the accretion flow timescales are comparable and this suggests the presence of QPO. The components of accretion flow rates are anti-correlated and this suggests that they could interact at varying distances and change the distribution of energy spectral indices in the post-shock region/Compton cloud. The photon index–QPO frequency is tightly correlated with a coefficient of 0.97. Hence, the variations/fluctuation of accretion flow rates seem to be the underlying physical processes/mechanisms responsible for the origin of Γ–vQPO relation in the hard-intermediate spectral state.
A Practical Implementation to Federated Learning: Detecting Backdoor Attack on Next- word Prediction Model
Authors: Wong Jimmy K. W. , Lo Yuen Wing , Lai Chun Yin , Mung Steve W. Y.
Published: September 2024

This article presents the impact of attacking a next-word prediction model built from federated learning and proposes a backdoor attack detection mechanism with an example from presidential election. The attacker can affect the model by controlling a portion of machines joining federated learning so the perception toward a particular subject can be changed, for example, presidential election. Different ratios of datasets participating in federated learning were tested to investigate the correlation between the percentage of negative datasets joined and the bad feeling toward the sentences. The detection mechanism was also investigated to determine whether the devices with deviated and abnormal datasets can be found and banned from joining the training pool to reduce the attack toward the model. The result proves the hypothesis of the positive relation between the percentage of bad devices in the training pool and the bad perception of the sentences generated by the model toward a particular subject. The proposed mechanism can help reduce the impact of attacking when the percentage of the connected bad devices is small.
Application of Visual Programming in Urban Landscape Design: A Case Study of Paving Patterns at Satellite Lake Plaza in Chongqing
Authors: Cui Xing , Shang Yunbo , Zhang Hailong , Deng Dexue , Feng Jiwei
Published: September 2024

With the widespread use of digital technology in landscape engineering design, visual programming has become an important tool to improve design efficiency .This study investigates complex geometry construction and dynamic adjustment based on Dynamo and Python platforms, using the Chongqing Satellite Lake Square paving pattern update design project as a case study. The research comprehensively investigates the design logic, use, and practice of visual programming by utilising automation and custom algorithms. It involves a wide range of topics, including creating models and initialising data, as well as delineating regions, designating colour blocks, selecting patterns, and receiving real-time feedback.The results show that visual programming not only significantly optimises the design process and improves the efficiency , but also significantly enhances the flexibility and adaptability of the design solution by responding to changes in design requirements and adjustments in field conditions in real time.This research introduces new perspectives and approaches to practice in related disciplines, as well as innovative tools for landscape engineering design, thereby promoting interdisciplinary collaboration and digital transformation.
Promoting Tomato Resilience: Effects of Ascorbic Acid and Sulphur-Treated Biochar in Saline and Non-Saline Cultivation Environments
Authors: Ikram Muhammad , Minhas Asif , AL-Huqail Arwa A. , Ghoneim Adel M. , Danish Subhan , Mahmoud Esawy , Tahira Maryam , Mehran Muhammad , Maqsood Muhammad Faizan Khurram , Rauf Abdul , Ali Waqar
Published: September 2024

The resilience of tomato plants under different cultivation environments, particularly saline and non-saline conditions, was investigated through the application of various treatments, including 0.5% Ascorbic Acid (AsA) and 1% Sulphur-treated Biochar (BS). The study evaluated parameters such as fruit length, diameter, yield per plant and per pot, Total Soluble Solids (TSS) content, chlorophyll content, electrolyte leakage, enzyme activities (Superoxide Dismutase - SOD, Peroxidase - POD, Catalase - CAT), and nutrient content (Nitrogen - N%, Phosphorus - P%, Potassium - K%). Under saline conditions, significant enhancements were observed in fruit characteristics and yield metrics with the application of AsA and BS individually, with the combined treatment yielding the most substantial improvements. Notably, AsA and BS treatments exhibited varying effects on TSS levels, chlorophyll content, electrolyte leakage, and enzyme activities, with the combination treatment consistently demonstrating superior outcomes. Additionally, nutrient content analysis revealed notable increases, particularly under non-saline conditions, with the combined treatment showcasing the most significant enhancements. Overall, the study underscores the potential of AsA and BS treatments in promoting tomato resilience, offering insights into their synergistic effects on multiple physiological and biochemical parameters crucial for plant growth and productivity.
Structural Stability, Electro-Optical Modulation and Photocatalytic Response of NaTaO 3 Cubic Perovskite Under Non-Ambient Conditions
Authors: Rizwan Muhammad , Sandali Yahya , Usman Zahid , Hashmi Tania , Farman Muhammad , Ullah Muhammad Abaid
Published: September 2024

NaTaO3, being stable cubic perovskite material, offers excellent structural stability, electronic and optical properties and is a potential candidate for photocatalysis. Particularly, it is important to investigate its structural stability and photocatalysis response under extreme pressure. The electronic band structure of NaTaO3 is indirect in nature and its band gap increases under pressure, while preserving its topology. DOS of this material demonstrated hybridization among different states and relative shifting of filled valence state to lower energies, making it more stable under pressure. An inclusive study of elastic parameters reveals that NaTaO3 possesses anisotropic mechanical characteristics, and its brittle nature changes to ductile with pressure. Poisson’s ratio lying between 0.23 and 0.32 suggested an ionic and metallic mix inter-atomic bonding. Optical properties shifted toward ultraviolet region, due to widening of electronic band gap. More positive VB potential, as a function of pressure, demonstrated increasing oxidizing capability of NaTaO3, essential to generate hydrogen energy. Shifting of its band gap in UV region suggests this material as a potential candidate for high power optoelectronic devices.
Advanced Methods for Real-Time Signal Processing in Urban Bridge Inspections Using Wireless Sensors
Authors: Quynh Trinh Thi Nhu , Nguyen Hoa-Cuc. , Mach Bich-Ngoc. , Nguyen Thanh Q.
Published: September 2024

This study introduces a method for processing various types of random real-world signals from bridges in both experimental models and real-world scenarios using a wireless sensor system. By analyzing and processing signals collected during actual traffic on bridges, the study identifies and provides parameters that meet current quality inspection requirements to ensure the safety of bridge users. The parameters investigated in this study include deformation, natural frequency, amplitude, impact factor, and damping coefficient. Research has determined and highlighted key parameters for assessing the quality of bridge spans to meet quality inspection standards. Using actual traffic vibration signals provides accurate and useful information that supports the government in conducting regular inspections. Furthermore, this study reduces inspection costs for regulatory agencies by significantly cutting costs compared to traditional methods, offering economic benefits. In general, this research not only introduces a new approach to vibration signal processing but also brings practical benefits to bridge infrastructure management and inspection.
Transformation of Geospatial Modelling of Soil Erosion Susceptibility Using Machine Learning
Authors: Olii Muhammad Ramdhan , Nento Sartan , Doda Nurhayati , Olii Rizky Selly Nazarina , Djafar Haris , Pakaya Ririn
Published: September 2024

Soil erosion creates substantial environmental and economic challenges, especially in areas vulnerable to land degradation. This study investigates the use of machine learning (ML) techniques—namely Support Vector Machines (SVM) and Generalized Linear Models (GLM)—for geospatial modeling of soil erosion susceptibility (SES). By leveraging geospatial data and incorporating a range of factors including hydrological, topographical, and environmental variables, the research aims to improve the accuracy and reliability of SES predictions. Results show that the SVM model predominantly identifies areas as having moderate (40.59%) or low (38.50%) susceptibility, whereas the GLM model allocates a higher proportion to very low (24.55%) and low (38.59%) susceptibility. Both models exhibit high performance, with SVM and GLM achieving accuracies of 87.4% and 87.2%, respectively, though GLM slightly surpasses AUC (0.939 vs. 0.916). GLM places greater emphasis on hydrological factors such as distance to rivers and drainage density, while SVM provides a more balanced assessment across various variables. This study demonstrates that ML-based models can significantly enhance SES assessments, offering a more nuanced and accurate approach than traditional methods. The findings highlight the value of adopting innovative, data-driven techniques in environmental modeling and offer practical insights for land management and conservation practices.
Global burden and trends of ovarian cancer attributable to occupational exposure to asbestos: A study based on 1990-2019 GBD data.
Authors: Wang Kunyu , Mao Wei , Wu You , Song Yan , Zhang Yanan , Li Bin
Published: September 2024

Background
Ovarian cancer remains a major health issue, with occupational asbestos exposure possibly contributing to its risk. We comprehensively assess the global burden of asbestos-related ovarian cancer, explore disparities, and project future trends to inform prevention strategies.
Methods
We evaluated deaths and disease-adjusted life years (DALYs) globally in 2019, analyzed temporal trends (1990–2019), and used the age-period-cohort (APC) model and the Bayesian age-period-cohort (BAPC) model to predict future burdens. Decomposition analysis identified drivers of burden change, and frontier analysis assessed the correlation with socio-demographic development.
Results
In 2019, occupational exposure to asbestos was a significant contributor to the substantial burden of ovarian cancer, exhibiting considerable disparities across age groups, Socio-demographic Index (SDI) regions, Global Burden of Disease (GBD) regions, and countries. Despite a global trend of declining age-standardized rates (ASRs) between 1990 and 2019, the absolute number of deaths and DALYs associated with asbestos-related ovarian cancer continued to rise. The APC model predicted a steady escalation in the number of deaths and DALYs from 2019 to 2030 while forecasting a decrease in the ASRs. However, contrasting results emerged from the BAPC model, which indicates that both the number of deaths and DALYs, as well as their ASRs, are anticipated to decline. Furthermore, the frontier analysis suggested that countries with higher SDI scores exhibit greater potential for reducing the disease burden. Our decomposition analysis revealed that aging and population growth were the primary drivers of the increasing disease burden, whereas epidemiological change exerted a negative influence.
Conclusions
Occupational exposure to asbestos is a substantial contributor to the disease burden of ovarian cancer. Success with reducing asbestos occupational exposure through regulatory policy might point the way for a stronger role for public policy on other risks in addition to continued efforts to provide information on risk factor harm to the general public.
Will they survive? Sustainability status of the fishery for Tomato Hind (Cephalopholis sonnerati (Valenciennes, 1828)) in Sri Lankan waters: a length based approach
Authors: Dalpathadu K. R. , Haputhantri S. S. K.
Published: September 2024

Cephalopholis sonnerati, a grouper species, is primarily targeted for the export market in Sri Lanka. Significant harvesting occurred between 2015 and 2017, driven by the Live Reef Food Fish Trade besides small-scale coastal fisheries. Nevertheless, no scientific studies have assessed the sustainability of the fishery or the status of C. sonnerati populations in Sri Lankan waters. To address this gap, we utilized length based, data-limited approaches to assess the sustainability of the fishery for C. sonnerati in east and west coastal waters in Sri Lanka. The Von Bertalanffy growth parameters were separately estimated for west and east populations: L∞ = 63.1 and 62.4 cm (TL); K = 0.26 and 0.24/year; mean M = 0.50 and 0.47/year; L50 = 36.0 and 43.5 cm (TL) respectively. Length Based Indictors (LBIs) and Fmax suggest that the fishery for C. sonnerati was operating at MSY levels. Even though, LBIs for the conservation of immature and mature individuals for both populations fell below the expected levels, indicating fishery unsustainability. The length-based spawning potential ratio (LBSPR) of the west and east coastal populations was estimated to be 24% and 13% respectively, which were below the expected reference points of LBSPR. Furthermore, the models showed size selectivity estimates at 50% and 95% were lower than the estimated sizes at L50. In conclusion, it is suggested that the C. sonnerati populations in west and east coastal waters presumably at risk of overexploitation by growth and recruitment overfishing, highlighting the need for effective management and conservation plans.
Circadian Clock Regulation in Soybean Senescence: A Transcriptome Analysis of Early and Late Senescence Types
Authors: Basnet Prakash , LEE Sevin , MOON Ka Hee , Park Nam-Il , Lee Gang-Seob , Lee Seongkon , Um Taeyoung , Choi Ik-Young
Published: September 2024

Background
Plant senescence is the process of physiological maturation of plants and is important for crop yield and quality. Senescence is controlled by several factors, such as temperature and photoperiod. However, the molecular basis by which these genes promote senescence in soybeans is not well understood. We identified senescence-related genes via transcriptome analysis of early-senescence (ES)- and late-senescence (LS)-type plants to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of senescence in soybeans.
Results
We obtained early-senescence (ES)- and late-senescence (LS)-type F7 plants from a cross between a hybrid (Glycine max × Glycine soja) and the Glycine max cultivar.The ES-type plants presented the reproductive (R2) growth stage at 50 days after sowing (DAS) and the R7 growth stage at 95 DAS, whereas the LS-type plants presented the beginning of the R1 and R6 growth stages at 50 and 95 DAS, respectively. To understand the molecular mechanisms underlying this senescence, we performed transcriptome analysis of leaves from 50 and 95 DAS of ES- and LS-type plants. A total of 2,414 and 2,471 genes at 50 and 95 DAS, respectively, were differentially expressed between ES-type and LS-type plants. Twenty-three candidate genes associated with the circadian clock, chlorophyll biosynthesis, phytohormones, and protein kinases were identified, and their expression levels were analyzed. In addition, we analyzed the expression patterns of circadian clock-related genes such as CIRCADIAN CLOCK ASSOCIATED 1 (CCA1), LATE ELONGATED HYPOCOTYL (LHY), CONSTANS-LIKE 9 (COL9), EARLY FLOWERING 3 (ELF3) and pseudo response regulator 5 (PRR5) in ES- and LS-type plants under light and dark conditions. The expression patterns of circadian clock-related genes were similar in the ES- and LS-type plants. However, the transcription levels of these genes were compared between ES- and LS-type plants, and the expression of these genes was greater than that in LS-type plants during the period when expression increased. Therefore, each set of candidate genes regulated senescence in each plant by regulating their expression level.
Conclusions
These findings provide novel insights into the regulation of senescence in soybean plants, which could lead to the development of new strategies to improve agriculture.
Mapping the neural substrate of dual-task gait cost in older adults across the cognitive spectrum
Authors: Ali Pauline , Dinomais Mickaël , Labriffe Matthieu , Pieruccini-Faria Frederico , Montero-Odasso Manuel , Bartha Robert , Annweiler Cédric
Published: September 2024

The dual task cost of gait (DTC) is an accessible and cost-effective test that can help identify individuals with cognitive decline and dementia. However, its neural substrate has not been widely described. This study aims to investigate the neural substrate of the DTC in older adults across the spectrum of cognitive decline. A total of 336 individuals from the GAIT study cohort were analyzed, including cognitively healthy (N = 122, 71 ± 3.6 years), those with mild cognitive impairment (N = 168, 71 ± 5.3 years), and those with dementia (N = 46, 80 ± 5.7 years). A DTC of 20% or greater was considered to indicate a high level of slowing down while performing successively two verbal tasks (counting backwards task by ones and naming animals). Voxel-based morphometry was employed to investigate differences in gray matter volume (GMV) between groups, which were dichotomized according to the DTC. A high DTC in the whole population (N = 336) was associated with a smaller GMV in the bilateral temporal lobe across both dual-task conditions. A moderation analysis was employed to compare the neural substrate between cognitive status groups. This revealed that the dementia group exhibited an additional cluster located in the left precentral gyrus with GMV loss associated with a high naming animals DTC, in contrast to the other cognitive groups. These results provide new evidence on why dual-task gait capabilities deteriorate in normal and pathological cognitive aging. A clearer understanding of the neural substrate associated with DTC depending on the cognitive status would be valuable to better elucidate this motor marker of dementia.
Consequences of the perivascular niche remodeling for tumoricidal T-cell trafficking into metastasis of ovarian cancer
Authors: Kozbor Danuta , Winkler Marta , Malhotra Nemi , Mistarz Anna , Wang Sophie , Hutson Alan , Gambotto Andrea , Abrams Scott , Singh Prashant , Liu Song , Odunsi Kunle , Wang Jianmin
Published: September 2024

The treatment-induced activation level within the perivascular tumor microenvironment (TME) that supports T-cell trafficking and optimal T-cell differentiation is unknown. We investigated the mechanisms by which inflammatory responses generated by tumor-specific T cells delivered to ovarian tumor-bearing mice alone or after oncolytic vaccinia virus-driven immunogenic cancer cell death affect antitumor efficacy. Analyses of the perivascular TME by spatially resolved omics technologies revealed reduced immunosuppression and increased tumoricidal T-cell trafficking and function after moderate inflammatory responses driven by a CXCR4 antagonist-armed oncolytic virus. Neither weak nor high inflammation created a permissive TME for T-cell trafficking. Notably, treatment-mediated differences in T-cell effector programs acquired within the perivascular TME contrasted with comparable antigenic priming in the tumor-draining lymph nodes regardless of the activation mode of antigen-presenting cells. These findings provide new insights into combinatorial treatment strategies that enable tumor-specific T cells to overcome multiple barriers for enhanced trafficking and control of tumor growth. .
Comparative Study on Conventional and Virtual Outriggers with Belt Truss Systems in High rise Structures
Authors: Lakshmi Maheswaram Yamini , Rao B. Venkat
Published: September 2024

Skyscrapers serve as prominent symbols of human progress, transforming metropolitan horizons and tackling issues related to urban growth. Architects and engineers are driven to continuously push boundaries in their pursuit of larger structures, which leads them to explore new materials, inventive designs, and advanced structural systems. Outrigger girders and belt trusses are crucial elements in the design of tall buildings as they successfully tackle the structural difficulties that arise in skyscrapers. The aim of this study is to identify the outrigger system that achieves the lowest displacement and story drifts, while simultaneously maximising stability, for a 40-story high-rise building. The analysis is conducted using the finite element method with Outriggers equipped with belt truss strategically located at the 1/2 and 2/3 positions with cap truss, RCC shear wall at core and comparing them with virtual outrigger systems which are strategically placed to a framed structure .The result shows that maximum reduction of displacement and maximum storey drift was seen when the outrigger is placed at mid and 2/3rd height of the building (i.e. at 20th and 26stories) along with cap truss (i.e. at 40th storey) with RCC shear wall at core of the structure.