bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Subclass-wise Logit Perturbation for Multi-label Learning
Authors: Zhu Yu , Wu Ou , Su Fengguang
Published: January 2025

Logit perturbation refers to adding perturbation on logit, which has been shown to be capable of enhancing the robustness and generalization capabilities of deep neural networks in machine learning. However, studies on logit perturbation for multi-label learning are limited and they only consider the issue of class imbalance in the training data. Furthermore, the logit perturbation vectors in these methods are identical for negative classes containing different subclasses when multi-label learning is viewed as a multiple binary classification problem. This study investigates logit perturbation by exploring the characteristics of subclass-wise multi-label training data. First, the influence of the characteristics of multi-label training data on classification performance is analyzed in terms of the three data characteristics, namely, proportion, variance, and co-occurrence for each category (or subclass). Quantitative analyses reveal that variance differences among the subclasses in the negative class of a decomposed binary task also negatively impact the training performance, and if multiple characteristics affect simultaneously, the performance deterioration will be more severe. Second, theoretical analysis is performed for subclass-wise logit perturbation and a new subclass-wise logit perturbation method is proposed for multi-label learning. In our method, each class/subclass has a carefully designed perturbation implementation according to its proportion, variance, and co-occurrence. Finally, our proposed method is further explained through a regularization view. Extensive experiments demonstrate that our method consistently enhances the generalization performance of popular depth networks on multi-label benchmark datasets.
Semantic Diverse DMR and TMR for High-Integrity AI-Based Function Efficiency
Authors: Caro Martí , Brando Axel , Abella Jaume
Published: January 2025

Dual (DMR) and Triple Modular Redundancy (TMR), often with some form of diversity, are used in safety-critical systems to realize those functionalities at the highest integrity level providing fault detection and/or tolerance capabilities. Redundant executions are intended to provide bit-level identical results and, upon any mismatch, an error is assumed and recovery actions taken as needed.

In this paper, we note that many emerging AI-based functionalities are intrinsically stochastic (e.g., camera-based object detection), and hence, their correctness must be judged semantically, with room for variations across correct outcomes (e.g., confidence must be above a given threshold
, but how much it exceeds the threshold is irrelevant
). Building on this observation, we propose strategies to create DMR and TMR implementations of AI-based functionalities that bring, not only fault tolerance against random hardware faults, but also against AI model inaccuracies. Those strategies, which can be realized with software-only means and ported to virtually any computing platform, build on input data modifications affecting the inference computations, but not the expected semantic output (e.g., introducing some
controlled changes
in the input data).
Moreover, we provide our solution in the form of an open-source tool for image and video processing aimed at facilitating the reproducibility of our evaluation results, and enabling others to use it and conduct further research on input transformations.
Responses of skeletal muscle to mechanical stimuli in female rats following and during muscle disuse atrophy
Authors: Sklivas Alexander B. , Hettinger Zachary R. , Rose Sarah , Mantuano Alessandra , Confides Amy L. , Rigsby Sandra , Peelor Frederick F. , Miller Benjamin F. , Butterfield Timothy A. , Dupont-Versteegden Esther E.
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the response of female rats to mechanical stimulation in both active and passive forms following and during muscle disuse atrophy. New findings indicate that female rats respond to active loading with enhanced muscle regrowth and protein synthesis, whereas passive loading using mechanotherapy did not affect atrophy or recovery of female muscles. Comparison with published data indicates that there are distinct differences in male and female rats in their response to mechanical stimuli.
Arrested Puberty in a Young Adult With a Macroprolactinoma: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: M. Sánchez , M. Otazú , P. Furtenbach , M. Piñeyro
Published: January 2025

Prolactinoma is the most common pituitary tumor, with clinical presentations varying according to sex, age of onset, tumor size, and prolactin (PRL) levels. These tumors are rare in the pediatric and adolescent populations. Hyperprolactinemia leads to hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, resulting in reproductive, metabolic, sexual, and skeletal consequences that can affect puberty development. Here, we present the case of a 23‐year‐old male patient diagnosed with arrested puberty secondary to a macroprolactinoma. The clinical presentation, diagnostic approach, therapeutic management, and a literature review are discussed.
Response of the Magnetospheric Convection Electric Field (MCEF) to Geomagnetic Storms During the Solar Cycle 24 Maximum Phase
Authors: Nongobsom Bazié , Salfo Kaboré , Karim Guibula , Frédéric Ouattara
Published: January 2025

The present work focuses on the variability of the magnetospheric convection electric field (MCEF) during geomagnetic storms generated by coronal mass ejections (CMEs). The aim of the study was to analyze the response of the MCEF to geoeffective CMEs occurring during the maximum phase of Solar Cycle 24. A total of eight storms were selected on the basis of their intensity with respect to the Dst (disturbance storm time) and Kp (planetary geomagnetic index) indices. We examined the variations in solar wind parameters (VSW (solar wind speed), PSW (plasma pressure), and interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) Bz) and geomagnetic indices (Sym‐H (symmetric horizontal) and auroral electrojet (AE)) during these storms. We analyzed the time lag between the MCEF and AE, Sym‐H, and IMF Bz using a cross‐correlation analysis. The study shows that CMEs arriving in the magnetosphere at a speed of 800–960 km/s induce a change in MCEF of 0.95–1.29 mV/m in the initial phase, and those transiting at a speed of 520–651 km/s induce a change in MCEF of 0.78–0.91 mV/m. During storms associated with CMEs arriving at a speed of 520–651 km/s, a change in IMF Bz of 1 nT is associated with a change in MCEF of about 0.05 mV/m. During those associated with CMEs transiting at a speed of 800–960 km/s, each 1 nT change in IMF Bz corresponds to a change in MCEF of about 0.07 mV/m. Variations in the MCEF follow those in the AE index in 88% of the storms studied, with a time lag ranging from 9 to 79 min. They precede those of the ring current index (Sym‐H) in 50% of the cases analyzed, with a time lag varying from 49 to 742 min. These results provide us with some information on the complete evolution of geomagnetic storms, with a view to better prediction.
Protective and Restorative Effects of Biophilic Design in High School Indoor Environments on Stress and Cognitive Function
Authors: Mengqi Li , Jie Yin , Leiqing Xu
Published: January 2025

Mental health is a significant concern for teenagers. Given that about 80% of Chinese high school students spend the majority of their time indoors on campus, school environments present opportunities not just for learning but also for reducing students’ stress and promoting their well‐being. Previous research has shown that direct interactions with natural elements such as green plants have restorative effects, but limited attention has been given to indirect interactions with nature. We investigated the impact of three design forms—nonbiophilic, curved, and biomimicry—within school corridors and classrooms on Chinese high school students’ stress and cognitive functions. We employed a combination of subjective assessments and objective measurements to examine the protective and restorative impacts of these three design forms and utilized virtual 3D models in order to control confounding environmental variables during a visual experience. Through virtual reality simulations involving 96 participants, we collected physiological responses, including skin conductance level, heart rate, indicators of heart rate variability, and cognitive responses, including creativity and attention test scores, to evaluate participants’ changes in stress levels and cognitive performance. Our results indicated that indirect exposure to nature, particularly curved forms, facilitates greater cognitive improvement and stress reduction, whereas nonbiophilic forms offer enhanced stress protection benefits. Therefore, learning environments with nonbiophilic design may be more suitable for tasks that induce stress, such as classes and examinations. Learning environments that feature curved biophilic forms may be better suited for promoting relaxation, creativity, and attention.
Sociocultural Attitudes Toward Appearance and Attitudes Toward Eating in Adolescents With Type 1 Diabetes: The Importance of Perfectionism
Authors: Ruiz-Aranda Desireé , Luque Ana , Russo Francesca , Fenollar-Cortés Javier
Published: January 2025

Objective: Adolescents managing type 1 diabetes (T1D) are at increased risk of experiencing eating disorders (EDs). Identifying risk factors is essential to develop preventive strategies. This study examines the potential mediation value of self‐esteem and the perfectionism associated with EDs in the relationship between sociocultural attitudes toward appearance and eating attitudes related to EDs in a sample of adolescents with T1D.

Methods: Forty‐six adolescents aged 12–17 years diagnosed with T1D participated in the current study. Sociocultural attitudes toward appearance, perfectionism associated with EDs, and self‐esteem were measured. Multiple and simple mediator analyses using the bootstrapping method with bias‐corrected confidence estimates were conducted.

Results: Our results show that perfectionism associated with eating problems is not only related to sociocultural attitudes toward appearance and eating attitudes, but rather the relationship between these last two variables would be fully mediated by perfectionism.

Conclusions: A high degree of perfectionism could be a risk variable when developing potential eating problems in T1D adolescents. Perfectionism and its self‐management would be a prominent factor that may help to design interventions developed for adolescents with diabetes who show behaviors that potentially conflict with eating. The clinical implications are discussed.
Assessing the Use of Different Surveillance Components to Detect Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Outbreaks in Poultry in the Netherlands in Low‐ and High‐Risk Years
Authors: Vredenberg Imke , van Schaik Gerdien , Velkers Francisca C. , Fabri Teun , Spierenburg Marcel A. H. , Germeraad Evelien A. , van der Poel Wim H. M. , Stegeman Arjan
Published: January 2025

Avian influenza (AI) is a highly contagious zoonotic disease primarily affecting birds with clinical manifestation depending on bird species and virus subtype. Globally, outbreaks have had a large socioeconomic impact. Moreover, highly pathogenic AI virus (HPAIv) outbreaks can pose a public health risk. Detection of AIv, particularly HPAIv, mainly relies on passive surveillance, risking underreporting and delayed detection. This study describes and compares the contribution of passive and active surveillance components on HPAI detection in poultry flocks in years with different HPAIv introduction risk (free, seasonal outbreaks, and year round) in the Netherlands. We drafted a flowchart representing the flow of information and samples between farmers and veterinarians, the competent authority (CA), the national reference lab (NRL), and the private organization Royal GD and identified four different surveillance components and derived the use of each of these components during 2016 (reference), 2019 (low risk), and 2022 (high risk). The first component, “notification of suspicion,” where farmers and veterinarians directly report suspicions to the CA, accounted for 88.4% of farm visits and detected 98.1% of all HPAIv outbreaks. The second component, “testing to exclude” (TTE), consisting postmortem/sample submission and contact with the veterinary helpdesk of GD detected 2% of the cases in 2022. The third and active surveillance component, “protection zone screening,” screens farms closely to a positively detected farm. No outbreaks were detected, suggesting limited between‐farm transmission. The last and active surveillance component, mandatory national serological surveillance detected two low pathogenic AI outbreaks. Analysis between years for the passive surveillance components “notification of suspicion” and “TTE,” using chi‐square test of independency and odd ratios, showed increased use and farm visits in the high‐risk year. However, postmortem‐related submissions for TTE were increased in the disease‐free year. All components combined detected HPAI or provided valuable information across different risk periods.
A Rare Case of Uterine Serous Carcinoma: Importance of Early Detection and Comprehensive Treatment in Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Hijazi Amjad , Alahdab Gieth , Oso Aland , Abboud Ahmad , Salman Safa K.
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Uterine serous carcinoma (USC) is an uncommon but highly aggressive subtype of endometrial cancer, constituting approximately 10% of all endometrial carcinoma cases. Due to its aggressive nature, it is often diagnosed at an advanced stage, with a significant proportion of patients presenting with metastasis. Case Presentation: This report deals with a case of a 75-year-old postmenopausal female with a history of obesity and hypertension, presenting with abnormal vaginal bleeding over 2 years. Her obstetric history included three cesarean sections, and she had not undergone a speculum examination for 35 years. Transvaginal ultrasound revealed a heterogeneous structure with cystic changes nearly filling the uterine cavity, suggestive of an intrauterine polyp. Dilation and curettage under general anesthesia disclosed that the uterine cavity is filled with gray, soft endometrial material. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of serous papillary carcinoma of the endometrium. Subsequent imaging was unremarkable for distal metastasis. The patient underwent an abdominal total hysterectomy with bilateral adnexectomy and pelvic lymphonodectomy. Histopathology indicated high-grade papillary serous adenocarcinoma with minimal myometrial invasion and metastasis in 3 out of 10 regional lymph nodes. Postoperatively, she received 25 sessions of radiotherapy and four doses of chemotherapy with paclitaxel and carboplatin. Nine months post-surgery, the patient remains in good health and adheres to a strict monitoring protocol. This case emphasizes the necessity of comprehensive diagnostic evaluations and aggressive treatment in postmenopausal women presenting with vaginal bleeding. Conclusion: Despite its typically poor prognosis, early diagnosis and treatment of USC can lead to favorable outcomes. This case underscores the importance of timely intervention in managing postmenopausal vaginal bleeding, particularly in the context of potential malignancies.
Retinal pigment epithelial detachments over choroidal nevi – what is the clinical significance?
Authors: Shabto Julie M. , Wells Jill R. , Grossniklaus Hans E. , Azarcon Corrina P.
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Retinal pigment epithelial detachment (PED) is an uncommon finding associated with choroidal nevi. In this case series, we describe PED overlying a choroidal nevus in four patients and discuss the clinical significance of this diagnosis.
Case Presentations: Four female patients, aged 55 to 78 years, diagnosed with unilateral choroidal nevi with associated overlying PEDs were followed over time. Two patients were referred for evaluation due to concerns about potential growth. Fundus photography, B-scan ultrasonography, and optical coherence tomography (OCT) were performed in all cases. None of the patients developed visual symptoms attributable to the choroidal nevus or PED. No progression or malignant transformation was observed during follow-up.
Conclusion: While PED does not appear to increase the risk of progression to melanoma, it may complicate the evaluation of the underlying choroidal nevus and could lead to decreased visual acuity. Therefore, choroidal nevi with overlying PED should be monitored over time, with particular attention to the potential development of secondary choroidal neovascularization.
Two new southeastern brazilian genera of Hypoptopomatinae and a redescription of Pseudotocinclus Nichols, 1919 (Ostariophysi, Loricariidae)
Authors: Britski Heraldo A. , Garavello Julio C.
Published: January 2025

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Nova contribuição ao conhecimento dos Oligochaeta da Venezuela
Authors: Righi Gilberto
Published: January 2025

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The main impedances for the ratification of the treaty between Mercosur and the European Union: the two-level games perspective
Authors: Nunes Rodolfo
Published: January 2025

Os novos Tratados Regionais, ou o inter-regionalismo, se caracterizam como um agrupamento de aspectos que vão desde o desenvolvimento geopolítico, às dinâmicas multilaterais e regionais, e às decisões político-econômica dos países. Este artigo avalia as barreiras do Tratado de Livre Comércio entre o Mercosul e a União Europeia (EU), à medida que em 2019 houve a finalização da terceira fase de negociação, porém o processo de ratificação não está concluído. Nesta discussão temos o objetivo de compreender, por meio de uma revisão de literatura e da aplicação da teoria dos jogos de dois níveis, como o Mercosul e a UE estão posicionados nas negociações em relação aos principais entraves do acordo birregional. A análise evidencia que os aspectos agrícola e industrial são os quesitos que desde o início das negociações causaram disputas em relação às tarifas e cotas de exportação para determinados produtos. Entretanto, mais recentemente, a pressão por questões ambientais como sustentabilidade e controle ambiental adentraram como elemento das negociações e acabaram dificultando a ratificação. Assim sendo, corrobora-se que os jogos de dois níveis são eficazes na identificação da influência que os níveis internacionais e domésticos possuem nas discussões de acordos.
Una exploración comparativa de las estrategias de política exterior entre Panamá y China: ¿cómo la falta de continuidad gubernamental impacta la actividad económica?
Authors: Rodriguez Sebastian Naranjo
Published: January 2025

O artigo seguinte apresenta uma exploração comparativa das estratégias de política externa implementadas por duas administrações no Panamá (2014-2019 e 2019-2024) em relação à China e descreve o seu impacto na actividade económica bilateral. A investigação deduz que, apesar do alinhamento das respectivas políticas do Panamá e da China, o avanço da sua relação foi impedido pela administração 2019-2024, que optou por criar distância com a China para melhorar os laços com os Estados Unidos da América. Consequentemente, isto levou à suspensão ou adiamento de projectos e esforços comerciais que teriam sido vantajosos, como o Acordo de Comércio Livre (ACL) e várias iniciativas de infra-estruturas. O artigo apresenta uma metodologia que explora como as flutuações nos laços políticos em relação à China de um governo para outro impactam o campo do comércio e da cooperação internacional. Esta análise é um ponto de referência para outros estados centro-americanos que estabeleceram relações diplomáticas com a China.
Produção do conhecimento sobre a América Latina por grupos de pesquisa no Brasil: características, potenciais e desafios
Authors: Barros Flávia Lessa de , Tavolaro Lilia Gonçalves Magalhães
Published: January 2025

Apresentamos um panorama sobre um conjunto de 76 Grupos de Pesquisa registrados no Diretório de Grupos de Pesquisa do CNPq-MCT, parte de um conjunto maior e diverso de iniciativas institucionais, acadêmicas e não acadêmicas, identificadas em pesquisa para o mapeamento dos campos de produção e difusão de conhecimento e informação sobre a América Latina no Brasil, no período de 2016 a 2020, com o apoio da FAP-DF. O Grupo de Pesquisa é o tipo de iniciativa institucional com foco especializado na região numericamente mais importante, segundo os resultados da pesquisa, e, por conseguinte, priorizado em nossas análises. O objetivo é compreender as condições de organização e funcionamento destes Grupos de Pesquisa. Dados quantitativos e qualitativos levantados por meio de sites das iniciativas na internet, questionários junto aos Líderes de Grupos de Pesquisa, formulários do Diretório de Grupos de Pesquisa/CNPq e da Plataforma Lattes/CNPq subsidiam a nossa caracterização do conjunto de Grupos de Pesquisa selecionados em termos de criação; distribuição no país; vinculação a IES; natureza; missão; agendas temáticas; perspectivas de abordagem; trajetórias de formação dos líderes; dinâmicas de atuação e avaliação de políticas governamentais. O objetivo também é, tendo-se em vista a conjuntura política nacional e internacional mais recente, explorar alguns potenciais e desafios para a consolidação dos campos latino-americanistas no Brasil e a influência destes campos sobre processos de integração regional em dimensões socioculturais.
Gustavo Gutiérrez e o legado da Teologia da Libertação (in memoriam)
Authors: Semeraro Giovanni
Published: January 2025

O recente falecimento de Gustavo Gutiérrez motiva a elaboração deste artigo, na intenção de prestar uma devida homenagem ao “pai” da Teologia da Libertação e ressaltar também a sua extraordinária contribuição à criação de uma das mais impactantes correntes de pensamento de matriz latino-americana. Assim, além de delinear a trajetória de vida, o contexto histórico e as fontes que concorreram para a formação teórico-prática de Gutiérrez, o texto focaliza os aspectos mais marcantes da Teologia da Libertação, uma audaciosa e inovadora concepção de mundo que contribuiu não só para resgatar a mensagem genuína do cristianismo e renovar a Igreja, mas também para desvelar as causas da exploração e da pobreza dos povos subjugados, e subsidiar movimentos sociais e organizações populares nas lutas para libertar-se de todas as formas de dominação em vista da construção de uma nova civilização.
Gustavo Gutiérrez: una teología comprometida con la praxis histórica de la liberación
Authors: Echeverría Israel Arturo Orrego , Rodríguez Manuel Leonardo Prada
Published: January 2025

O artigo examina o trabalho e o legado de Gustavo Gutiérrez, teólogo peruano e fundador da teologia da libertação, cuja proposta reinterpreta o cristianismo a partir da perspectiva dos pobres e oprimidos da América Latina. Gutiérrez argumenta que a salvação de Cristo abrange todas as dimensões humanas, inclusive a social, a econômica e a política, questionando assim as interpretações religiosas que dissociam a fé da realidade histórica. Sua abordagem integra o compromisso ético com os valores do Reino de Deus, enfatizando a justiça e a dignidade humana. A teologia de Gutiérrez não separa a transcendência divina dos processos históricos, considerando a práxis como o lugar onde a ação salvadora de Deus se manifesta. Isso é um desafio às noções tradicionais de desenvolvimento, que muitas vezes legitimam as desigualdades sob o pretexto de progresso. Influenciado pela filosofia da história e pela análise social, Gutiérrez articula uma abordagem interdisciplinar que usa ferramentas críticas, como a análise marxista, sem comprometer o núcleo espiritual do cristianismo. O texto também aborda os críticos contemporâneos que acusam a teologia de Gutiérrez de marxismo, respondendo que ela se baseia na espiritualidade cristã e no compromisso com os mais vulneráveis. Por fim, destaca a relevância de seu legado como um chamado para uma práxis comunitária orientada para a libertação integral e a superação das estruturas de opressão.
Vitrines da modernidade: simbolismo de ornamentos em edificações ecléticas na Cidade da Parahyba, Brasil
Authors: Madruga Gabriel de Oliveira , Cavalcanti Filho Ivan
Published: January 2025

The incursion of eclecticism in Brazil during the First Republic (1889-1930) coincides with an urban modernization project that contemplates building façades with ornaments of various designs. Since investigations about eclectic architecture in the City of Parahyba (now João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brazil) are scarce, this essay examines the morpho-symbolic attributesof façade ornaments on two eclectic buildings located in its Historic Center: Tribunal de Justiça and Loja Maçônica Branca Dias. To accomplish this, the socio-cultural context of Parahyba is investigated, and the respective façades are photographed and redrawn for ornamentalanalysis. Results indicate that while motifs on Loja Maçônica Branca Dias allude to Ancient Egyptian legends revered by Freemasonry, those on Tribunalde Justiça commit to aesthetics rather than symbolism, aiming for the refinement envisaged by the modernizing project. Ornaments on the buildings' frontages thus endorse the socio-cultural context framed by republican ideals, transforming them into showcases of the new modern urban imaginary.
Contextual Neutralisation of Voicing in Maltese Obstruents
Authors: Avram Andrei A.
Published: January 2025

This chapter explores the historical evolution of contextual voicing neutralization in Maltese obstruents, focusing on regressive voicing assimilation and word-final devoicing. By comparing Modern Maltese with its Arabic ancestor, evidence shows sporadic instances of spontaneous voicing and devoicing in earlier stages, transitioning to systematic phonological rules by the late 18th century. An analysis of texts, lexicons, and notarial records from the 15th to 18th centuries reveals that while early Maltese exhibited voiced obstruents and mixed clusters, regressive assimilation and word-final devoicing gradually became pervasive. Both rules, first attested in the 16th century, spread via lexical diffusion, affecting Semitic roots and Romance loanwords alike.

The study underscores the typological shift from unrestricted obstruent voicing contrasts in Arabic to the Maltese system characterized by regressive assimilation and word-final devoicing. This development challenges claims of direct inheritance from Sicilian Arabic, suggesting instead a Maltese-specific innovation. Despite some exceptions, such as non-integrated borrowings, these phonological rules persist synchronically in Modern Maltese.

The findings contribute to understanding the diachronic phonology of Maltese, highlighting its divergence from other Arabic varieties and its typological realignment. The study also emphasizes the importance of historical linguistic evidence in reconstructing phonological change and its implications for the interaction of Semitic and Romance components in Maltese.
Stability, bifurcation, and large-amplitude vibration analysis of a symmetric magnetic spherical pendulum
Authors: Big-Alabo Akuro , Chuku Maruchi Triumph
Published: January 2025

Existing studies on the symmetric spherical pendulum are limited to small- and moderate-amplitude vibrations. This study was conducted to obtain accurate solutions for analysis of the large-amplitude vibration of a symmetric magnetic spherical pendulum using the continuous piecewise linearization method (CPLM). The stability conditions and bifurcation of the pendulum were derived based on the critical points, while the CPLM was used to estimate the frequency response and vibration histories to less than 0.1% and 1.0% relative error respectively when compared to numerical solutions. The CPLM was found to be significantly more accurate than the Laplace transform homotopy perturbation method and predicted the large-amplitude bi-stable vibrations accurately. The stability analysis that was conducted enabled the characterization of all bounded symmetric vibrations based on the relationship between the cyclotron frequency and azimuthal velocity, whereas the bifurcation analysis confirmed that the symmetric vibrations can undergo pitchfork bifurcation that results in transition from single-well to double-well (or bi-stable) vibrations and vice versa. Finally, a parametric analysis was conducted to study the effect of the cyclotron frequency and uniform azimuthal velocity on the frequency–amplitude response and vibration histories The parametric analysis showed that the frequency–amplitude response has a strong dependence on the cyclotron frequency and azimuthal velocity for all amplitudes. On the other hand, the oscillation profile only depends on the cyclotron frequency and azimuthal velocity for some amplitudes. The results of this study can be applied in the design of energy harvesters and elliptic tanks for liquid transport.
Peer Mentors and Desistance: A Systematic Literature Review and Synthesis
Authors: Brierley Andrew , Best David , Mcdermott Danielle , Woodfield Russell
Published: January 2025

This systematic literature review investigates the deployment and effectiveness of peer mentors in criminal justice practice. The findings reveal a lack of any consistent definition of what constitutes a peer becoming a mentor within this context. Despite this, strong evidence suggests that support from a peer mentor alongside formal interventions positively influences subjective factors that contribute to desistance from crime for both mentors and mentees, particularly among prison leavers. This review formulates three themes: “Street and Carceral Capital,” “Conflicts of Warrants to Knowledge,” and “Growth Reciprocity,” which are key aspects of peer mentoring and demonstrate both the challenges and benefits of the inclusion of peer mentors as a criminal justice response to preventing re-offending. Consequently, international policymakers should focus on recruiting, training, and retaining professionals with personal experience of crime and desistance to enhance the efficacy of criminal justice interventions and testing their impact.
Prevalence of Job Burnout and Associated Factors Among Police Officers During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Xu Yi , Zhang Qi , Tuo Xin , Tan Xiaodong , Chen Xuyu
Published: January 2025

The 2019 outbreak caused by a novel coronavirus poses unprecedented challenges for police. In China, police officers are involved in the fight against the pandemic in collaboration with medical and public health personnel. Prolonged working hours, high intensity, and high risk of infection lead to stress and, in turn, burnout among police officers. We investigated the psychosocial well-being of police officers in Wuhan, China, and found that 18.64 % of police officers were experiencing burnout. Improvements in sleep quality, social support, and psychological resilience can significantly reduce levels of burnout, and increased perceived stress is associated with increased levels of burnout; age and marital status interact with this association. As one of the most important participants in the on-site rescue and rescue work of major emergencies, the burnout of police deserves to be paid attention to. Managers should actively take measures to reduce the occurrence of police burnout.
Green Innovation Implementation: A Systematic Review and Research Directions
Authors: Qin Xiangru , Muskat Birgit , Ambrosini Véronique , Mair Judith , Chih Ying-Yi
Published: January 2025

Green innovation is an organizational strategy aimed to address climate crises and create low-carbon growth, yet, its implementation remains a significant challenge. We focus on green innovation implementation (GII) and argue that GII is a distinctive strategic process. Traditional innovation implementation, centered on short-term economic growth, can be problematic as it often decouples nature from innovation in the pursuit of profit maximization. Thus, the traditional approach fails to adequately explain GII, specifically, who implements it and how they do it. We adopt a strategy-as-practice perspective and conduct a systematic review of 224 journal articles across various management fields to synthesize existing knowledge of GII. This review makes three main contributions. First, we posit that GII is theoretically distinct with unique implementation challenges: recoupling nature with innovation implementation introduces complex antecedents and environment-inclusive benefits, requiring a long-term implementation process and a broader scope. Second, we develop a framework that synthesizes practitioners, antecedents, processes, and impact of GII from three theoretical foci: (1) resource-based perspective, (2) sustainable value-driven perspective, and (3) institutional perspective. This framework complements the traditional understanding of innovation implementation by offering diverse theoretical insights on GII. Third, we propose theoretical and methodological directions for future research to advance knowledge on green innovation and provide meaningful insights on GII.
Examining Heart Failure Informal Care Partners Using Person and System Levels and Domains: A Meta-Synthesis
Authors: Buck Harleah G. , Durante Angela , Howland Chelsea , Aldossary Heba , Bidwell Julie T. , Irani Elliane , Liebzeit Daniel , Massouh Angela , Abshire Saylor Martha , Stawnychy Michael A. , Graven Lucinda J.
Published: January 2025

Background:

Within the last decade, system and policy-level changes have driven substantial shifts in heart failure (HF) care from hospital to home, requiring greater support from informal care partners. What has not been examined is the state of the care partner science by person and system-level domains using qualitative studies to understand impact across multiple person and system levels.

Objectives:

(1) Identify by person and system levels and domain what is known about informal care partners and (2) Identify gaps in the caregiving science and suggest ways to move forward.

Methods:

This secondary analysis of a large HF systematic review is guided by the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities and MIRACLE frameworks and uses meta-synthesis techniques with critical realist approaches to synthesize and interpret the themes across papers.

Results:

Using data from 46 papers and 1695 care partners, we identified patterns occurring across 6 domains (biological, behavioral, affective, physical/built environment, sociocultural environment, and healthcare system) and on 4 levels (individual, interpersonal, community, and societal). Existing research predominantly addressed affective and behavioral domains, followed by health system and sociocultural domains. Few studies focused on biological and physical/built environment domains, leaving large gaps in what is known about caregiving at the cellular (biological) and societal (community and societal) levels.

Conclusions:

HF caregiving continues to be studied at a very rudimentary level. This synthesis also reveals critical gaps in what is known about caregiving within the physical/built environment domain and at the community and societal levels.
Hybrid Local-Feature-Based Approach for Automated Rail Extraction from Lidar Data
Authors: Ren Yihao , Lu Pan , Ai Chengbo , Keramati Amin
Published: January 2025

Constructing 3-D rail models from observed lidar point clouds has gained growing interest in the railroad industry: 1) to create digital twins of infrastructure asset inventories; and 2) to continuously monitor infrastructure health conditions. Performance of the existing threshold-based and rules-based extraction methods not only depends on feature-specific properties such as retro-intensity, geometric design rules, and defined feature shapes but also relies on data quality and prior knowledge such as data resolution, scanning angle, and feature orientation. This research proposes a hybrid approach, combining both data-driven filtering algorithms and artificial intelligence (AI) model-based classification approaches for automatically generating 3-D rail models. The main objective is to develop an automatic and computationally efficient procedure for rail 3-D model reconstruction in a massive, noisy, and unevenly distributed railroad scene with high accuracy but without requiring: 1) prior knowledge; 2) high-density point data clouds; or 3) feature-specific global features. In this paper, we develop and compare three hybrid procedures by using data collected by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) with a point density of 293 pt/m2. Both pointwise and lengthwise evaluations were used to evaluate the robustness of the proposed methods. The pointwise evaluation shows an average precision, recall, f1, and intersection over union (IoU) of 0.989, 0.747, 0.852, and 0.741, respectively. The lengthwise evaluation shows average correctness, completeness, and quality of 99.32%, 94.69%, and 94.06%, respectively. The proposed automated, configuration-independent, and global-feature-free method shows its efficient and effective rail extraction capabilities with low-density point clouds for complicated railroad terrains.
Hepatic conditioning results in better lung endothelial cell preservation under hypoxic environment in vitro
Authors: Noda Kentaro , Atale Neha , Austin Taylor , Geller David A , Gerlach Jorg , Sanchez Pablo G.
Published: January 2025

Background:

as we look to extend ex vivo lung perfusion times (EVLP) to improve preservation, the metabolic activity of the lungs will require support from other organ functions. Active functional liver support, including detoxification, synthesis, and regulation, can improve lung preservation during EVLP. This study aimed to demonstrate the effects of hepatic conditioning of the EVLP perfusate on lung endothelium, via the receptor of advanced glycation end-products (RAGE)-nuclear-factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling in vitro.

Methods:

we performed in vitro experiments using human lung microvascular endothelial cells (HLMVECs), human hepatocytes, and perfusate (Steen solution). Four experimental groups: 1) fresh Steen (negative controls, NC), 2) EVLP’ed Steen control, this solution collected after 12 h of EVLP of human lungs, 3) hepatocyte conditioned EVLP’ed Steen (Hep-cond.), and 4) a RAGE inhibitor added in EVLP’ed Steen (RAGE inhibitor). HLMVECs were incubated in each testing condition and exposed to hypoxia (1% O2/8% CO2) for 24 h. Media were collected to investigate NF-κB signaling and endothelial glycocalyx damage.

Results:

HLMVECs incubated under hypoxia in EVLP’ed Steen showed significantly upregulated NF-κB signal and endothelial damage denoted by increased glycosaminoglycans and matrix metalloproteinase-2 activity among the groups. The Hep-cond. solution significantly attenuated those findings, while the RAGE inhibitor attenuated the NF-κB signal but not endothelial glycocalyx damage.

Conclusion:

Our study demonstrates that hepatic function incorporated into EVLP can ameliorate pulmonary endothelial cells injury under hypoxic normothermic perfusion exposure. Our data supports the concept of incorporating other organ functions into an organ perfusion platform, to enhance lung graft preservation.
Crack width and crack spacing of glass-FRP reinforced concrete beams under flexure: Simulation and analysis
Authors: Huang Zheng , Pan Zuanfeng , Zeng Bin
Published: January 2025

Although extensive experimental investigations have been carried out to study the flexural cracking behavior of concrete beams reinforced with fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) bars, the relevant finite element modeling and analyses have been found to be rare. In this paper, an FE modeling approach for predicting the crack width and crack spacing of Glass-FRP (GFRP) bars reinforced concrete (RC) beams is presented. To evaluate the developed FE model, a database comprised of 18 GFRP-bar RC flexural beams is assembled. By simulating the test beams, four bond-slip models are assessed and a new rigid-plastic-based bond-slip model is proposed in this study. Comparison between the experimental and FE results indicates that the proposed bond-slip model is superior to the others. The developed FE approach with the proposed bond-slip model can well reproduce the effects of various factors (including the tension reinforcement ratio, bar diameter, type of GFRP tension bars, stirrup spacing in the pure bending zone and the cover thickness) on the crack width and crack spacing of GFRP-bar RC beams. Some suggestions on the determination of bond-dependent factors k b, which is used in the expressions for predicting the crack width suggested by the North American codes, are also provided.
Child Welfare and/or Legal System Involved Pregnant/Parenting Youth Intervention: A Pretest–Posttest Study
Authors: Villagrana Kalah M. , Ogbonnaya Ijeoma Nwabuzor , Denby Ramona , Stott Tonia , Holley Lynn C. , Carver Ann Turnlund , Ferguson Kristin M.
Published: January 2025

Purpose: This pilot study examined the preliminary effectiveness of the Empowered Young Parents Program (EYPP) for child welfare and/or legal system involved pregnant, expectant, or parenting youth (PPY) in promoting health outcomes. Method: A one-group pretest–posttest ( N = 25) design was used to evaluate changes in the participants. Results: At posttest participants reported lower perceived stress, depressive symptoms, and experiences of intimate partner violence. They also reported a higher likelihood of having someone to talk to about reproductive healthcare. Discussion: The study suggests the EYPP may be an effective prevention service for supporting the needs of PPY and further rigorous trials are needed.
Mental Health Family Carer Coresearchers: Coproduction Principles to Elevate Lived-Expertise in Research
Authors: Walters Caroline , Lawn Sharon , Maghidman Marcelo , Solich Hayley , McDonald Eileen , Stevenson Tony , Sheers Carli , Simic Nevena , Harms Jonathan , Petrakis Melissa , Goodyear Melinda
Published: January 2025

Purpose: Few studies demonstrate approaches to working with mental health family carers in research, service change or system reform. This article formulates participatory principles for co-research with mental health family carers. Method: Twenty-three members of a Project Steering Group, with different levels of experience in research and advocacy, were invited to participate in one of two focused-conversations, to reflect upon a 9-month national coproduced research study. Participants assisted with analysing the transcriptions, understanding findings and coauthored this article. Results: Principles that promoted partnership were: family carer leadership and inclusion from the beginning, power sharing within the research partnerships, researching with people and not on or about them, valuing the process of coproduction in research through time and resource allocation, and recognizing and valuing lived-expertise and coresearchers within research processes. Discussion: Adopting these principles will elevate mental health family carer expertise when codesigning and coproducing research, service change or system reform.
Hot Spots Policing: Assessing the Impact on Officer-Initiated Activity
Authors: Tregle Brandon , Tillyer Rob , Smith Michael
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the effects of hot spots policing on self-initiated officer activity using data from a violent crime reduction strategy implemented in Dallas, TX. A strong body of empirical evidence has demonstrated that violent crime is disproportionately concentrated in very small, specific geographic locations. Hot spots policing leverages crime concentration by focusing police resources in these small, crime-prone areas. While extensive research demonstrates that hot spots policing is effective in reducing crime, critics argue that focused enforcement efforts may lead to increased proactive activities targeting residents. To date, no research has specifically examined the impact on self-initiated officer activities involving citizen interactions within communities exposed to hot spots policing. Moreover, there has been little exploration of the differences between hot spots strategies that use proactive approaches compared with lighter footprint strategies. We address this gap in the literature using a multi-year assessment of the effects of two types of hot spots policing on self-initiated activity. We found differential impacts on self-initiated activity in areas treated with deterrence-based, high visibility (HV) strategies versus those treated with proactive, offender-focused approaches (OF). Hot spots policing had no effect on self-initiated activity in HV treated areas while there were statistically significant increases in four of five measured categories in the OF treated locations. This study highlights the need for law enforcement agencies to adopt tailored approaches specific to crime conditions in different areas. While proactive approaches may be necessary in specific locations, agencies should understand both the crime reduction benefits and potential impacts on local communities.
Comparative evaluation of left atrial size in healthy cats measured by two-dimensional echocardiography and cardiovascular MRI
Authors: Wei Lirou , Li Jing , Ren Honglin , Fu Shiyi , Liu Yiting , Wu Yuhong , Liu Bo
Published: January 2025

Objectives

This study aimed to assess left atrial (LA) size in healthy cats using cardiovascular MRI (cMRI) and to compare this with LA size assessed by two-dimensional echocardiography. The hypothesis was that cMRI would accurately determine LA size in domestic cats.

Methods

A prospective comparative study was performed. Six healthy cats were selected for the study. Standard two-dimensional echocardiography was performed with and without general anaesthesia. cMRI was conducted under general anaesthesia. A comprehensive analysis of LA mass and function measurements was performed to determine the consistency and correlation of LA size and function indicators between two-dimensional echocardiography and cMRI.

Results

Our study found that intraobserver variability for cMRI measurements was lower than that for two-dimensional echocardiography. Compared with cMRI, echocardiography under anaesthesia significantly overestimated maximal LA volume (LAVmax_2D, P <0.01) and significantly underestimated minimal LA volume (LAVmin_2D, P <0.01). The LAVmin measured by two-dimensional echocardiography exhibited the highest consistency (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.857) and correlation ( R = 0.75, P <0.01) with LAVmin measured by cMRI. The linear regression equation was LAVmin_ cMRI = 0.891 × LAVmin_2D + 0.304.

Conclusions and relevance

cMRI represents a reproducible method for assessing LA mass in domestic cats. This study underscored the importance of echocardiography in veterinary cardiology, and the LAVmin measured by two-dimensional echocardiography may reflect the true LAVmin.
Metastasis of an urothelial carcinoma as rare cause of an AV-graft dysfunction in a transgender patient
Authors: Marei Abdalla , Hohls Martin , Touloumtzidis Aristotelis , Katoh Marcus , Gäbel Gabor
Published: January 2025

A 66-year-old transfeminine patient presented to our institution with a central-venous stenosis causing dysfunction of her arteriovenous (AV) graft on her left arm. The patient was treated repeatedly, because of restenosis. Due to complete occlusion of the graft and subclavian vein as well as a liquid tumor located around the stenotic segment of the vein, we resected the left subclavian vein via a trap-door thoracotomy and inserted a PTFE-graft. Histological examination of the resected tissue identified metastasis from the urothelial carcinoma as the underlying cause of the stenosis. Malignant tumors are an infrequent etiology of AV-access dysfunction, and there are hardly any data on transgender patients. This case report provides an overview of the current data concerning these unique circumstances.