bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Firing rate distributions in plastic networks of spiking neurons
Authors: Vegué Marina , Allard Antoine , Desrosiers Patrick
Published: January 2025

In recurrent networks of leaky integrate-and-fire neurons, the mean-field theory has been instrumental in capturing the statistical properties of neuronal activity, like firing rate distributions. This theory has been applied to networks with either homogeneous synaptic weights and heterogeneous connections per neuron or vice versa. Our work expands mean-field models to include networks with both types of structural heterogeneity simultaneously, particularly focusing on those with synapses that undergo plastic changes. The model introduces a spike trace for each neuron, a variable that rises with neuron spikes and decays without activity, influenced by a degradation rate rp and the neuron’s firing rate ν. When the ratio α = ν/rp is significantly high, this trace effectively estimates the neuron’s firing rate, allowing synaptic weights at equilibrium to be determined by the firing rates of connected neurons. This relationship is incorporated into our mean-field formalism, providing exact solutions for firing rate and synaptic weight distributions at equilibrium in the high α regime. However, the model remains accurate within a practical range of degradation rates, as demonstrated through simulations with networks of excitatory and inhibitory neurons. This approach sheds light on how plasticity modulates both activity and structure within neuronal networks, offering insights into their complex behavior.
Effect of Bacillus subtilis ATCC 122264 on intestinal gas symptoms and quality of life in adults with functional bloating
Authors: LeMoire A. , Lin L. , Girard S.A. , Baisley J. , Wang J. , Atif A. , Zahra R. , Millette M.
Published: January 2025

Probiotics can confer a beneficial effect on gastrointestinal-related symptoms and their impact on daily life. This randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study assessed the efficacy of a novel probiotic strain Bacillus subtilis ATCC 122264 as a probiotic on gas-related symptoms in healthy adults. One hundred healthy adults with functional bloating/distension according to the ROME IV criteria, were randomised in a 1:1 ratio to receive either 5 billion cfu of B. subtilis) or placebo daily for 8 weeks. Intestinal gas symptoms and impact on daily life were assessed weekly by the 17-item Intestinal Gas Questionnaire (IGQ) and the change from baseline was analysed by ANCOVA at 4 and 8 weeks. Post-hoc analyses were conducted on the two parts of the IGQ, scored separately. Sub-group analyses based on sex were also done on the IGQ global and dimension scores as well as the scores from the two individual parts of the IGQ. Safety was assessed by reports of adverse events. B. subtilis did not differ from placebo in the change from baseline to Weeks 4 or 8 in IGQ global score or dimension scores of bloating, flatulence, belching, bad breath, stomach rumbling and difficult gas evacuation (). In females taking B. subtilis, the severity of belching and flatulence significantly decreased after 4 () and 8 weeks () respectively, compared to females taking placebo. The impact of flatulence on daily life decreased after 8 weeks in females taking B. subtilis compared to placebo (). B. subtilis was safe and well tolerated over the 8-week study period. The results suggest that B. subtilis may reduce gas-related symptoms, such as bloating and flatulence, in females. Further studies are needed to confirm the sex-related effects of B. subtilis in populations with gastrointestinal symptoms.

Registered at Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT06308146
Nutritional comparison of abdominal and whole part of Javanese grasshopper (Valanga nigricornis) for meat analog formula as sustainable protein innovation
Authors: Priyatnasari N.S. , Palupi E. , Roosita K. , Iwansyah A.C. , Sulaeman A. , Setiawan B. , Filianty F.
Published: January 2025

Indonesia has a large and growing population, projected to reach between 311.6 and 318.9 million by 2045, which will be accompanied by a 75% increase in food demand. This growth is expected to create a 44% supply gap in protein availability, which may exacerbate nutritional issues, particularly stunting, due to protein inadequacy. Addressing this anticipated protein deficit highlights the importance of developing alternative protein sources, such as insects. This study aimed to compare meat analog formulations using abdominal and whole grasshopper as raw materials, representing a sustainable protein innovation. The research stages included formulation, sensory evaluation, physical characteristics testing, and nutrient analysis. Three formulations were developed using varying ratios of grasshopper to kidney beans: F0 (0%:35%), F1 (30%:5%), and F2 (30%:5%). In these formulations, F1 utilized grasshopper filets, while F2 used whole grasshoppers. The F2 treatment exhibited higher protein and mineral content than F1. However, F1 had the highest amino acid score at 84.64%. Based on comprehensive analysis, F1 was selected as the preferred formula, due to its favourable texture, sensorily acceptable, and contains preferable quality protein. The selected formulation meets food claims for high protein, very low sodium, and low saturated fat. Specifically, the protein content exceeds 35% of the Daily Value at 26.8 g/100 g, sodium is below 40 mg/100 g, and saturated fat is under 1.5 g/100 g. These results align with the nutritional standards established by BPOM Regulation No. 13 of 2016. This study has the potential for broad impact as an innovative advancement in edible insect processing methods, helping to address the global protein gap, promote sustainable protein sources, and contribute to the development of meat analog with a reduced environmental footprint.
What Can Femme Teach us About Pedagogy?
Authors: Cavanaugh Lindsay
Published: January 2025

Femme, as an analytic, has arguably not gained traction in queer and trans educational studies until recently because both femme and pedagogy are seen as failures. Outlining some reasons why femme and pedagogy both disappoint and provoke in the Halberstam (2011) sense – namely their elusiveness, power-laden origins, and perceived excess/lack – this article proposes femme pedagogy as an erotic relational framework (Lorde, 1978) that merits more thought in queer and trans educational scholarship. Synthesizing traits identified in key papers (Bimm & Feldman, 2020; Burkholder & Keehn, 2024; Davies & Hoskin, 2021, 2022; Fields, 2023), alongside my own musings, this article outlines five tenets for femme pedagogy: (1) failure & repair, (2) softness & hardness (3) intersectional her/hir/historicizing, (4) embodied connection, and (5) joy & desire.
A Catalogue of the Subfamily Mirinae (Insecta: Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Miridae) of Vietnam
Authors: KIM JUNGGON , CHÉROT FRÉDÉRIC , PHAN QUOC TOAN , KEETAPITHCHAYAKUL TOSAPHOL SAETUNG , JUNG SUNGHOON
Published: January 2025

This paper provides the first annotated catalogue of the plant bug subfamily Mirinae (Heteroptera: Miridae) from Vietnam. A total of four tribes, 30 genera, and 39 species are recognized and catalogued. For each species, brief information is provided on its distribution, host plant and dorsal habitus.
The Samaritan Pentateuch
Authors: Florentin Moshe , Tal Abraham
Published: January 2025

This new translation into English seeks to introduce the reader to the character of the Samaritan version of the Pentateuch, while emphasising the fundamental differences between it and the Masoretic version.

The translation is based on a grammatical analysis of each and every word in the text according to its oral pronunciation, informed by examination of the Samaritan translations into Aramaic and Arabic as well as other Samaritan and non-Samaritan sources.

One of the most ancient and important Samaritan manuscripts of the Pentateuch, MS Nablus 6, copied in 1204 CE, serves to represent the Samaritan version.

The English translation is placed in the left-hand column of each page, while the Samaritan original is displayed in the right-hand column. For the reader’s convenience, differences between the Samaritan and Masoretic versions are marked in red.

In addition to translating the Hebrew text and highlighting the differences between it and the Masoretic text, each difference is explained in a brief note in an apparatus at the bottom of the page. Where expansion is appropriate, the reader is referred to extended notes at the end of the edition.
Honouring a Gentleman, A Scholar, a Teacher, and a Pastor
Authors: Frendo Anthony J. , Gatt Kurstin
Published: January 2025

This chapter honors the multifaceted legacy of Martin R. Zammit, a distinguished scholar, teacher, pastor, and mentor whose contributions to Semitic Studies and Arabic linguistics have left an indelible mark. Born in Valletta in 1958, Martin's journey into academia was inspired by early exposure to Maltese linguistic texts and a self-driven pursuit of Arabic, despite its absence in formal education in Malta. His career began with roles involving Arabic translation and cultural liaison, notably as private secretary to the Maltese Prime Minister, Dom Mintoff, where he deepened his engagement with the Arabic-speaking world.

Transitioning to academia in 1988, Martin pursued degrees culminating in a Ph.D. in Arabic and Semitic Studies from the University of Malta. His academic career encompassed roles as a lecturer, Senior Lecturer, Associate Professor, and ultimately Full Professor. Martin’s diverse research spans Qurʾānic lexicology, Arabic dialectology, Syriac studies, and Maltese linguistics, notably translating the Qurʾān into Maltese and publishing a Syriac Chrestomathy.

Balancing teaching, research, and administrative duties, Martin also cultivated personal interests, including amateur radio and world music. His spiritual journey saw him ordained as a priest in the Greek Catholic Church, culminating in his role as Papàs. Even in retirement, Martin plans to pursue scholarly projects, including a comparative grammar of Maltese. His legacy, marked by passion, dedication, and humility, continues to inspire both academic and spiritual communities.
The Current Situation in Arabic-Speaking Kishlaks of Central Asia
Authors: Chikovani Guram
Published: January 2025

This chapter explores the unique linguistic dynamics of Arabic-speaking kishlaks (villages) in the Bukhara (BAD) and Qashqa-Darya (QAD) regions of Uzbekistan. These dialects, historically isolated from the broader Arab world, exhibit distinct features shaped by linguistic evolution and extensive contact with Uzbek and Tajik. Despite Arabic being a native, spoken language in these communities, its use is confined to familial settings, with younger generations increasingly favoring Uzbek and Tajik. Consequently, Arabic proficiency has sharply declined, as evidenced during fieldwork in the 1980s and later expeditions. Linguistic analysis reveals frequent code-switching, integration of foreign lexicon and syntax, and hybrid composites involving Arabic, Uzbek, Tajik, and occasionally Russian elements.

The chapter identifies critical verbal and lexical phenomena, including the evolution of verbal composites, code-switching patterns, and the replacement of Arabic terms with local languages. Noteworthy linguistic phenomena include double plurals, the reconstitution of Semitic root structures, and shifts in syntax influenced by non-Semitic languages. Historical lexical elements and phonetic adaptations provide insights into the historical development of Arabic. These findings emphasize the significant loss of Arabic linguistic traditions in Central Asia, yet underline the enduring scholarly value of documenting these dialects. The chapter concludes by advocating for further research, even as the number of Arabic speakers dwindles. Linguistic material collected from the region offers invaluable insights into Arabic’s historical evolution and highlights the importance of preserving these dialects for their unique linguistic heritage.
Al-Shidyāq’s Account of the Maltese Language: An Annotated Translation
Authors: Cooperson Michael
Published: January 2025

This annotated translation presents Faris al-Shidyaq’s nineteenth-century account of the Maltese language. AL-Shidyaq, a Lebanese man of letters, describes Maltese as an Arabic dialect, dismissing the then-current claim that it is descended from Punic. He points out cases where the language preserves words and structures that have disappeared, or taken different forms, in other Arabic dialectsDespite borrowing extensively from Italian and other European languages, Maltese retains significant Arabic elements, including classical usages and dialectal parallels.

The account initially dismisses Maltese as a "corrupt" version of Arabic, but gradually acknowledges its resilience and linguistic intricacies. It highlights the adaptability of Maltese speakers, who integrate foreign words seamlessly into their native linguistic patterns, demonstrating the dynamic nature of language evolution. The narrative critiques the lack of scholarly or literary works in Maltese and explores the cultural reasons for the reluctance of its speakers to embrace classical Arabic, despite the shared linguistic heritage.

The discussion sheds light on broader themes of linguistic identity, the impact of colonization, and the evolution of vernacular languages in response to historical and social pressures. It emphasizes the power of language to endure and adapt despite external influences, noting how Maltese has survived successive attempts to suppress it. This study provides valuable insights into the historical interplay between Maltese and Arabic, offering a nuanced perspective on linguistic resilience, cultural identity, and the intersection of language and modernization in the Mediterranean region.
On the Arabic Dialect of the Jews of Qāmišli (North-East Syria)
Authors: Geva-Kleinberger Aharon
Published: January 2025

This chapter explores the Arabic dialect of the Jewish community of Qāmišli, a town in northeastern Syria near the Turkish border. Originating largely from the city of Nuṣaybin, the Qāmišli Jewish dialect (QāJ) is a distinct member of the Qəltu Arabic group, sharing linguistic features with dialects of southern Turkey and northern Iraq. The research draws on fieldwork, including interviews with informants who emigrated to Israel, to document the phonological, morphological, syntactic, and lexical characteristics of QāJ.

The Qāmišli Jewish community, formed in the early 20th century, was shaped by waves of migration from Turkey, Iraq, and Kurdistan. The dialect reflects these influences, incorporating Hebrew vocabulary and showing traces of Turkish and Kurdish linguistic elements. Unlike other Syrian Jewish dialects, QāJ is socio-linguistically distinct, often looked down upon by the more prestigious Aleppo Jewish dialect. This distinction also reflects socio-economic disparities and the community's marginalization within Syrian Jewish society.

The chapter highlights unique phonological shifts, such as the irregular replacement of /r/ with /ġ/, and distinctive morphological patterns, including the preservation of certain suffixes found in Qəltu dialects. Additionally, the chapter documents cultural and linguistic practices, including unique Hebrew-Arabic hybrid usages and local Jewish customs.

Today, QāJ is nearly extinct, with most of its speakers residing in Israel and adopting Hebrew for daily communication. The study underscores the urgency of documenting such endangered dialects, as they offer valuable insights into the linguistic and cultural history of Jewish diasporas in the Levant
Interpreting the Traces: On the Grammaticalisation of ˀaṯar
Authors: Taine-Cheikh Catherine
Published: January 2025

This chapter examines the grammaticalisation of the Arabic lexeme ˀaṯar (‘trace’), its cognates in Semitic languages, and its evolution into various grammatical forms and meanings across Arabic dialects. The study begins with a semantic and grammatical overview of ˀaṯar in literary Arabic and its cognates in related Semitic languages, drawing on comprehensive lexicographical resources and comparative studies. The analysis highlights how ˀaṯar’s primary meaning (‘trace’ or ‘imprint’) expanded into diverse semantic and morphosyntactic usages.

Focusing on the Ḥassāniyya dialect of Mauritania, the chapter details the emergence of a pseudo-verb derived from ˀaṯar to express doubt, inference, or modal possibility. This phenomenon is contextualized within a broader cultural and linguistic framework, where interpreting physical traces is vital in a nomadic pastoralist society. Comparative analysis with other Arabic dialects reveals similar grammaticalisation processes, including the development of adverbial forms (e.g., ˀaṯāri ‘it seems’) and evidential markers in Middle Eastern and Gulf varieties, while noting regional differences in meaning and usage.

The study identifies evidentiality (noncommitment to information) as an important feature of ˀaṯar-derived expressions across dialects, reflecting its original semantic field of inference and indirect knowledge. This linguistic evolution exemplifies the interaction of cultural practices and grammaticalisation processes in Arabic. By tracing the transformation of ˀaṯar, the chapter contributes to understanding how semantic and functional shifts shape the lexicon and syntax of Arabic dialects.
Perceptions of Malta in Arabic Proverbs and Idioms
Authors: Gatt Kurstin
Published: January 2025

This contribution explores perceptions of Malta, its people, and its language through the lens of Arabic proverbs and idioms, offering a cultural and linguistic analysis within the field of paremiology. By examining a curated list of proverbs and their thematic implications, the study reveals how Malta is portrayed across various Arabic-speaking communities. The research identifies six key themes: Malta as a distant or unreachable place, a non-existent location, a symbol of religious devotion, a representation of importunate behaviour, a linguistic enigma, and a symbol of resilience during hardship. These portrayals stem from historical, cultural, and geographic factors, reflecting a mix of admiration, humour, and skepticism.

The study employs transcription and translation to document proverbs, supported by contextual analysis and anecdotal evidence. For instance, Malta is depicted as an unfamiliar location in Levantine and Syrian expressions, while Tunisian and Moroccan sayings highlight perceptions of linguistic incomprehensibility and the Maltese character. The contribution also addresses proverbs tied to historical events, such as Malta’s resistance to Ottoman invasions, which have left enduring legacies in local oral traditions.

This analysis underscores the role of proverbs as cultural artifacts, revealing societal values and inter-group dynamics. It advocates for further research into the representation of Malta in other linguistic traditions and the portrayal of different cultures in Arabic proverbs. The study contributes to understanding the intersection of language, culture, and perception in popular sayings.
Recognisably Arabian
Authors: Wilmsen David
Published: January 2025

The chapter examines the diachronic depth of Maltese by tracing its connections to Levantine Arabic, South Arabian dialects, and Andalusi Arabic. Drawing on the work of Martin Zammit and incorporating detailed morphosyntactic analyses, the chapter identifies a bundle of linguistic features shared between Maltese and certain Arabic varieties, notably the use of enclitic -š/-šī for negation, prohibitives, and polar questions. Evidence suggests these features originated in South Arabian dialects, traveled through the Levant, and reached Malta via Andalusi Arabic and North African influences. For example, the enclitic -š forms prohibitives and negations in Maltese and appears sporadically in Levantine Arabic, Egyptian Arabic, and early Omani Arabic. Furthermore, a quantifier šī, analogous to Maltese xi, expresses partitive, distributive, and indefinite meanings, with parallels in Levantine and South Arabian Arabic.

The chapter also explores the influence of Modern South Arabian languages, such as Mehri, which share features like post-verbal negation and existential particles. This suggests pre-Islamic contact between Arabic speakers and Modern South Arabian communities facilitated linguistic convergence. The study challenges the notion of a linear Jespersen cycle in Arabic negation development, emphasizing instead the role of contact-driven diffusion. Maltese, with its diverse Arabic influences, illustrates how linguistic features can be preserved and recontextualized over time. By integrating evidence from Andalusi texts, Levantine dialects, and South Arabian varieties, the chapter highlights the complex interplay of migration, trade, and cultural exchange in shaping the morphosyntactic characteristics of Maltese.
Skill Evaluation of Rainfall Forecasts for the Mining Chain over the Eastern Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Ferreira Douglas B. S. , Nogueira Neto Antônio V. , Santos Ana Paula P. , Kuhn Paulo , Nascimento Júnior Wilson R. , Costa Cláudia P. W. , Tedeschi Renata G. , Jesus Edmir S. , Franco Vânia S. , Barreto Naurinete J. , Saraiva Ivan , Souza Filho Pedro W. M.
Published: January 2025

The mining chain, which stretches nearly 900 km across the eastern Brazilian Amazon from mine to coastal port, is frequently impacted by rainfall events, which negatively influence mining production, ore transportation, and other logistical processes. To help mitigate this, numerical simulation of the atmosphere using a model adjusted to the target region is one way to predict such rainfall events, contributing to more accurate decision-making. This study aims to evaluate the performance of rainfall forecasts for the mining chain in the eastern Amazon, focusing on 13 strategic locations between the mine, railway, and port. The bias, contingency table, false alarm ratio, and probability of detection statistical methods were applied to forecast data of 2022, which are compared to satellite rainfall estimates. The results showed that the rainfall forecasts follow the regional seasonality, but rainfall was significantly underestimated. When compared to the rainy season, with a bias slightly higher than 75%, the bias was lower during the dry period, with an accuracy of approximately 93%, especially for light to moderate rainfall. The results also indicated that the model largely predicted nonrainfall events that did not actually occur. The indices used uniformly demonstrated that the model achieves better performance in predicting rain in regions closer to the coast.
On Perils and Privileges of Native Anthropology in Pakistan: Locating Self of a Punjabi Anthropologist
Authors: Qadar Abdul
Published: January 2025

This paper problematizes nativeness of a Pakistani anthropologist originating from reflection on meanings of the term ‘native,’ against certain other key determinants of anthropological fieldwork like, ‘field’, ‘self’ and ‘representation in writing’. Methodologically, the paper contextualizes self of a Punjabi anthropologist at his native village while comparing historically enacted self at another Punjabi village where an American anthropologist did fieldwork seven decades earlier. Therefore, moving beyond the singular meaning coming from the term ‘native’, I propose that the term carries the self of a native anthropologist both in the forms of peril and privilege.
A backtracking heuristic algorithm for two-dimensional strip packing with rotation
Authors: Li Li , Liu Baoguo , Wu Zhaoyun
Published: January 2025

A backtracking heuristic algorithm (BHA) was proposed for a two-dimensional rectangular strip packing problem with rotations and without guillotine cutting, which has many applications. An improved fitness strategy was used to select the fittest rectangle to be packed on a strip with a certain height. Next, a backtracking constructive heuristic was repeatedly used at a higher height until all the rectangles were packed. A multi-start improvement procedure then found the best solution by taking a different rectangle as the first rectangle, whereas the sequence of the other rectangles remained unchanged. Finally, in order to further expand the scope of the solution, a simple randomized local search procedure based on random sequences of rectangles with the first rectangle unchanged was applied to search for the optimal solution. BHA has only two parameters; it is simple and effective. Computational results on benchmark problems (zero-waste instances and non-zero-waste instances) with different scales (from 10 to 75,032 rectangles) indicate the following: (1) though it is non-deterministic, the difference between the results after each running is tiny and (2) the proposed algorithm outperforms most of the other algorithms under comparison on the whole, especially for large-scale instances with more than 1000 rectangles, which is further verified by statistical analysis and greatly meaningful in mass industrial production like metal cutting.
Comparison of dual-feed-opening rotor spinning with varying fiber-transfer channel angle: Evaluation of airflow numerical simulation and yarn characteristics
Authors: Li Ling , Shi Qianqian , Zhang Yuze , Ding Qian , Wang Jun
Published: January 2025

The emergence of dual-feed-opening (DFO) rotor spinning has garnered notable attention in the area of innovative spinning techniques. In this research, we delved into the effects of the angle between two fiber-transfer channels (FTCs) on airflow dynamics, yarn structure, and other properties within a DFO rotor spinning system. Computational fluid dynamics simulation revealed that a 110° angle created an asymmetric airflow, marked by pronounced vortices and localized high-pressure zones, which diminished yarn tenacity to ≈11.6 cN/tex and increased unevenness to over 16%. In contrast, samples 18BW and 18WB demonstrated superior performance in hairiness index and imperfections. Digital image processing analysis indicated that, at a 110° FTC angle, fibers from feed roller 1 were more likely to accumulate on the yarn surface. Conversely, symmetrical FTCs produced a consistent airflow, promoting a uniform fiber arrangement, regardless of the feeding method. The ratio of the area occupied by two different colored fibers in the yarns was close to 1. This investigation holds significant importance in the advance of rotor-spun yarn development.
Who are satisfied with life in cities? Evidence for 25 European countries
Authors: Carlsen Fredrik , Leknes Stefan
Published: January 2025

A large literature has studied the urban gradient in subjective well-being, but few studies have examined for whom urban areas are good places to live. Using Eurobarometer survey data 2010–2019, we find that, compared to other sociodemographic groups, young, single and well-educated persons report relatively higher life satisfaction in cities than in non-city areas, whereas the opposite is the case for the unemployed. Sex differences in preferences for city living depend on country income: women gain relative to the other sex from living in a city in EU countries with high GDP per capita and vice versa for men. The Nordic welfare states exhibit a distinct pattern as average life satisfaction is higher in cities than in non-city areas, and the effects of unemployment, education and age are smaller than in the rest of the EU.
Impact of Physical and Psychological Strain on Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders: A Cross-Sectional Study in the Construction Industry
Authors: Kadir Abdul , Sunindijo Riza Yosia , Widanarko Baiduri , Erwandi Dadan , Nasri Sjahrul M. , Satrya Bangga Agung , Sunarno Stevan Deby Anbiya Muhamad , Atmajaya Hardy , Yuniar Popy , Yuantoko Tubagus Dwika , Qomariyah Lailatul , Maharani Cynthia Febrina
Published: January 2025

This study examined the interplay between physical workload, psychological stress, and the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) among construction workers in Indonesia. This cross-sectional study used a purposive sampling technique to gather quantitative data from 409 respondents working in four construction companies through structured questionnaires. Data collection tools included the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire III (COPSOQ III), the K10 scale for psychosocial distress, and the Nordic Body Map for musculoskeletal symptoms. Independent variables encompassed demographic factors, physical work environment, and psychosocial aspects, while the dependent variable was the presence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) symptoms over the past 7 days and 12 months. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression analyses were performed using IBM SPSS Statistics Grad Pack 29.0 PREMIUM. The study revealed a high prevalence of WMSDs among workers, with 36.2% reporting symptoms in the past 7 days and 31.5% in the past 12 months. These symptoms primarily affected the neck, shoulders, back, and waist. Both physical and psychosocial factors were found to the risk, with high levels of somatic stress and sleep disorders significantly increasing the likelihood of WMSDs. Psychological distress emerged as a particularly strong predictor to these disorders. The findings underscore the importance of implementing targeted interventions and safety policies to mitigate WMSDs risks and improve occupational health within the construction industry.
A Fresh View of the Veracity Effect in Deception Research: Bond and DePaulo Re-examined
Authors: Levine Timothy R. , Serota Kim B.
Published: January 2025

A reanalysis of Bond and DePaulo’s meta-analysis of deception detection accuracy from the perspective of truth-default theory is reported, focusing on truth bias, the veracity effect, and the implications of the ubiquitous 50%–50% base rates used in primary experiments. Unlike Bond and DePaulo, we examine the relationships among truth bias, the veracity effect, and overall accuracy providing new insights from old data. Truth bias is substantially positively correlated ( r = .88) with accuracy for truths, negatively correlated ( r = −.88) with accuracy for lies, uncorrelated with overall accuracy ( r < .03), and functionally isomorphic with the veracity effect. When accuracies for truths and lies are reported separately, the results may reflect truth bias, message veracity, or both. Substantially improved overall accuracy would be expected with more realistic base rates and levels of truth bias. The reanalyzed data highlight insights from truth-default theory and suggest that the 54% accuracy claim needs to be contextualized.
The decline and the need of the key force of intermediation
Authors: Urbinati Nadia
Published: January 2025

This article focuses on the relationship between ‘the social’ and ‘the political’, or more precisely, between a society of individuals and associations on the one hand and the domain of political deliberation on the other. Its main goal is to understand whether the transformation of intermediary bodies in politics (the parties) reflects a transformation of intermediary bodies in society; its hypothesis is that society does not experience a decline of intermediary bodies, but rather their unequal distribution among citizens, whereby, to be schematic, the ‘strong’ parts of society enjoy more power of intermediation than the ‘weak’ parts, with predictable effects as regards the power to influence politics and determine policy choices; its main idea is that the erosion of political moderation and the growth of radicalization start outside parties, in the extra-institutional socio-political relations between citizens or where social intermediate bodies grow and operate.
The Correlation Between Symptom Clusters and Quality of Life in Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Bai Lina , Yang Xuying , Miao Huali , Shi Hong , Zhang Hong , Fu Xiaoxia , Li Wanling
Published: January 2025

Background:

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is characterized by a range of symptoms that often cluster together, impacting the quality of life (QoL) of affected individuals.

Objective:

To delineate the composition of symptom clusters in patients with SLE and analyze their correlation with QoL, thus providing a basis for symptom management.

Methods:

Using convenience sampling, 201 patients were recruited. Data were collected using a general information questionnaire, SLE Symptom Checklist and Lupus Quality of Life scale. Symptom clusters were identified using exploratory factor analysis, and their correlations with QoL were analyzed using Spearman correlation analysis.

Results:

The most common symptom among patients was fatigue (64.7%). Five symptom clusters were identified: fatigue-related symptoms, weight gain-related symptoms, itch-pain-related symptoms, skin change symptoms, and body image symptoms. Fatigue-related, weight gain-related, and body image symptom clusters showed significant negative correlations with overall QoL scores and scores in various dimensions ( P < .05). The itch-pain symptom cluster was negatively correlated with the total score of QoL and several dimensions such as pain status, burden status, mental health status, physical health status, and fatigue status ( P < .05). The skin change symptom cluster was negatively correlated with the total score of QoL and several dimensions, such as mental health, physical health, and fatigue status ( P < .05).

Conclusion:

Patients with SLE exhibit significant symptom clusters correlating with overall QoL. Such data highlight the need for nurses to evaluate symptom clusters and intervene in related factors, enhancing QoL.
Refugee entrepreneurs: Typologies of emancipation and impact
Authors: Ozgoren Cagla , Karatas-Ozkan Mine , Ozbilgin Mustafa , Kamasak Rifat , Sayin Esin , Vassilopoulou Joana
Published: January 2025

The economic and social impacts of refugee entrepreneurs on host countries are becoming increasingly significant. Drawing on interviews with 33 Syrian refugee entrepreneurs from different backgrounds in Turkey, we theorise the conditions, mechanisms and outcomes of individual and collective emancipation that refugee entrepreneurs garner. Our qualitative study offers two theoretical contributions to the literature. First, we develop a typology of emancipation (self-made, political, resource-driven and complete emancipation) among refugee entrepreneurs and identify two emancipation mechanisms (i.e. seeking autonomy and crafting/strengthening) that transform the conditions of refugee entrepreneurs. Second, we demonstrate how emancipation fosters individual empowerment, collective success and positive societal impact. We connect these theoretical expansions to suggest evidence-based policy and practice recommendations on integration and support the emancipatory potential of refugee entrepreneurship.
Challenges for switching central nervous system and psychiatric medication products: A review of the literature
Authors: Procyshyn Ric M , Katzman Martin A , Margolese Howard C , Agid Ofer , Blier Pierre M
Published: January 2025

Background:

Switching between versions of medication products happens commonly despite challenges in achieving bioequivalence and therapeutic equivalence. Central nervous system and psychiatric drugs, especially those that are technically demanding to manufacture and have complex pharmacokinetic properties, such as long-acting injectables (LAIs), pose particular challenges to bioequivalence and safe and efficacious drug switching.

Aims:

To assess whether drugs deemed “bioequivalent” are truly interchangeable in drug switching.

Methods:

We assessed the published literature from January 2017 through June 2023 on PubMed using the MeSH terms “drugs, generic” OR “equivalency, generic” combined with terms for different psychiatric drug classes.

Results:

While most of the published studies returned in the search found that switching drug products was safe and clinically comparable, data on most drug classes other than those primarily indicated in the treatment of seizure disorder were sparse. Some studies also provided evidence that real-world outcomes such as adherence and hospitalizations may also be affected by switching. In addition, a review of bioequivalence testing guidance showed inconsistency across agencies and a lack of product-specific guidance from Health Canada, which raises questions about potential claims of bioequivalence for more complex products such as LAIs.

Conclusions:

Overall, given the difficulty in treating mental health disorders, prescribers should be cautious when switching products and formulations in a patient who has been stabilized on a drug.
Velocity ratings and perceptual qualities of electrotactile stimulation of the foot sole are impacted by direction, stimulus interval, and cutaneous saltation
Authors: Apollinaro Michael , Bent Leah R.
Published: January 2025

Electrotactile stimulation is a çmethod of activating the tactile system by bypassing cutaneous mechanoreceptors and exciting the cutaneous afferent endings directly. This method is of interest for its potential in wearable tactile augmentation technologies. The generation of meaningful electrotactile sensation could benefit cases of peripheral neuropathy or prosthesis. There are limitations in our understanding of an electrotactile stimulations’ capacity to represent tactile sensibilities, and its susceptibility to missense. The spatiotemporal parameters of an electrotactile sequence were varied. The present work extends the assessment of subjective evaluations of localization, velocity, and descriptive qualities. We applied electrotactile pulses at three sites on the foot sole, using three patterns across these sites: toward the heel or toes. We tested at three interstimulus intervals (100 ms, 160 ms, 220 ms). Faster sequences produced higher velocity ratings. Sequence direction across the foot sole impacted velocity ratings—with heel-to-toe sequences demonstrating a higher velocity rating than toe-to-heel sequences. During faster sequences with site repetition, cutaneous saltation is likely causing missense during localization. The spatiotemporal missense did not impact velocity ratings. This indicates that certain aspects of electrotactile sequence perception, such as velocity, are preserved through tactile illusions. These findings may be used to increase the resolution of stimulating grids.
Measuring the sense of presence and learning efficacy in immersive virtual assembly training
Authors: Lin Weichao , Chen Liang , Xiong Wei , Ran Kang , Fan Anlan
Published: January 2025

With the rapid progress in virtual reality (VR) technology, the scope of VR applications has greatly expanded across various domains. However, the superiority of VR training over traditional methods and its impact on learning efficacy are still uncertain. To investigate whether VR training is more effective than traditional methods, we designed virtual training systems for mechanical assembly on both VR and desktop platforms, subsequently conducting pre-test and post-test experiments. A cohort of 53 students, all enrolled in engineering drawing course without prior knowledge distinctions, was randomly divided into three groups: physical training, desktop virtual training, and immersive VR training. Our investigation utilized analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) to examine the differences in post-test scores among the three groups while controlling for pre-test scores. The group that received VR training showed the highest scores on the post-test. Another facet of our study delved into the presence of the virtual system. We developed a specialized scale to assess this aspect for our research objectives. Our findings indicate that VR training can enhance the sense of presence, particularly in terms of Sensory Factors (SF) and Realism Factors (RF). Moreover, correlation analysis uncovers connections between the various dimensions of presence. This study confirms that using VR training can improve learning efficacy and the presence in the context of mechanical assembly, surpassing traditional training methods. Furthermore, it provides empirical evidence supporting the integration of VR technology in higher education and engineering training. This serves as a reference for the practical application of VR technology in different fields.
Development of courseware for two-dimensional elasticity problems utilising free scientific software
Authors: Suchocki Cyprian
Published: January 2025

The interpreter-based, high level programming language Scilab was used to develop a courseware for studying Finite Element Method (FEM). The courseware enables to solve problems of linear, two-dimensional elasticity. It is designated for semi-interactive learning where student is able not only to define a problem to be solved but also to modify the programme and view any phase of computations and any variable values. The commands for matrix calculations offered by Scilab were used to simplify the computing. The programme allows to calculate the nodal displacements, strain and stress values in element centroids and has been equipped with proper plotting functions. Based on the programme developed a didactic sequence is proposed aimed at learning of FEM fundamentals.
Methyltrimethoxysilane (MTMS)
Authors:   Workplace Environmental Exposure Level (WEEL) Committee,   Occupational Alliance for Risk Science (OARS),   Toxicology Excellence for Risk Assessment (TERA)
Published: January 2025

Methyltrimethoxysilane (MTMS) has been used as a coupling agent in thermoplastics and thermosetting resins, a cross-linker in silicone sealants, a water repellent component, and in silicone hard-coats for plastics. Acute studies in experimental animals showed a low order of toxicity for MTMS via oral, dermal, and inhalation routes. MTMS was slightly irritating to both eyes and skin in rabbits. A weight of evidence assessment supports that MTMS is not a dermal sensitizer. Available in vitro and in vivo assays indicated MTMS has a low potential for genotoxicity. MTMS did not produce any changes in either reproductive or developmental parameters. Short-term, repeated inhalation in rats produced treatment-related observations in the urinary bladder and kidney. In a 90-day inhalation study in rats, MTMS was associated with production of urinary bladder epithelial hyperplasia, calculi formation, and moderate kidney dilation with hyperplasia of the pelvic epithelium and granulomatous inflammation. However, an expert panel review concluded that changes in the bladder and kidney were adaptive responses to physical or chemical irritation. The NOAEL of 100 ppm (557 mg/m3) from the 90-day inhalation study was considered the point of departure for the health-based WEEL derivation. After adjusting to account for duration of exposure and interindividual variability, the resulting 8-h TWA WEEL value of 10 ppm (55 mg/m3) is fully expected to provide a significant margin of safety against potential adverse health effects in workers.
Analysis of Image-Based Sexual Harassment and Abuse in Adolescents’ Socio-Affective Relationships
Authors: Martínez Román Rosana , Lameiras Fernández Maria , Adá Lameiras Alba , Rodríguez Castro Yolanda
Published: January 2025

The recent reconceptualization of the phenomenon of sexting between consensual and nonconsensual represents a relevant turning point in identifying and addressing nonconsensual sexting behaviors as online sexual violence. These practices of nonconsensual sexting, therefore, represent forms of technology-facilitated sexual violence, incorporating the terms image-based sexual harassment (IBSH) and image-based sexual abuse (IBSA) to describe the distribution of self-produced sexualized images in the online sphere by adolescents, who use the online environment as their main socialization space. The objective of this investigation is dual. First, we analyzed the experiences of adolescents who have been victims and/or aggressors of image-based harassment and/or sexual abuse, and second, we identified the motivations for engaging in IBSH and/or abuse among adolescents. This qualitative study analyzed the results of 19 focus groups with 223 adolescents (107 girls and 116 boys) aged 14 to 18. The main results of our qualitative study show that most adolescent boys perpetuate IBSH behaviors by sending unwanted sexual requests and images, and also carry out behaviors of IBSA such as producing, sending, forwarding, exchanging, and/or disseminating sexual images without the other person’s consent. Girls are the main victims. In addition, the results of our study show that male and female adolescents do not identify IBSH and IBSA as a form of sexual cyber violence, and, consequently, as a sexual crime. The adolescent collective considers these practices social, normal, harmless, and amusing. Therefore, sex education programs, from a comprehensive model, are the best co-educational tool to prevent, raise awareness of, and eradicate these behaviors of sexual and gender-based cyber violence in adolescents.
Virtual reality-induced motion sickness under autonomous vehicle driving conditions: EEG-based recognition and ANOVA analysis of various driving modes
Authors: Shao Shuyu , Zhang Yang , Wang Hongjue , Fan Xiaoli
Published: January 2025

Motion sickness induced by autonomous driving technology poses a new challenge to the emerging sustainable transportation systems. This study investigates the association between motion sickness in autonomous driving and electroencephalogram (EEG) signals under three laboratory-based simulated scenarios: manual driving, resting, and autonomous driving. EEG data were recorded from participants in each mode, alongside the collection of motion sickness symptoms through questionnaires. Data analysis and exploration were conducted to explore the relationship between autonomous driving-induced motion sickness and EEG signals. The results indicate a significantly higher probability of motion sickness among passengers in autonomous driving mode than in manual one. Across different driving modes, a correlation was observed between the amplitude and latency of N200 and P300 event-related potentials (ERPs) in the Go/Nogo paradigm, reflecting response inhibition and the occurrence of motion sickness. Temporal analysis of EEG signals revealed significant differences in the Kolmogorov complexity values at Cz, Fz, and Pz channels, suggesting the potential use of EEG-based detection of motion sickness. Frequency domain analysis indicated increased activity in alpha and gamma waves and decreased activity in beta waves following the onset of motion sickness during autonomous driving. Distinct changes were observed in the electrocortical topography of N200 and P300 components in autonomous driving through event-related potential waveforms and topographic maps. These findings provide new insights into the neural mechanisms of motion sickness in autonomous driving and offer guidance for future intervention methods and improvements in the design of autonomous driving systems, thereby promoting their sustainability and safety.