bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing digital skills assessment: introducing compact tools for measuring digital competence
Authors: Vuorikari Riina , Pokropek Artur , Muñoz Jonatan Castaño
Published: February 2025

Today, individuals interact with digital technologies in a plethora of ways requiring a range of digital skills, knowledge and attitudes—a combination that forms digital competence. Traditional digital skills measurements are often lengthy and complex, hindering real-world applications. Therefore, this study addresses the need for efficient digital competence measurement tools by developing and validating two concise instruments aligned with the Digital Competence Framework for Citizens (DigComp). Mini-21 offers an instrument that covers all 21 competences and a nano-6 version captures the five core areas of the framework. These instruments enable quick and concise digital competence assessments in various settings; for initial screening, diagnostic of low-skilled individuals for targeted educational interventions, and integration into broader surveys.

Psychometric analyses (confirmatory factor analysis, item response theory methods, measurement invariance, internal consistency and concurrent validity) of 460 respondents from Latvia and Spain confirm their high validity and reliability. Furthermore, by comparing psychometric models, the study demonstrates the superiority of tools integrating the three attributes of competence: knowledge, skills, and attitudes. The alignment of our findings with the European Union's DigComp framework guarantees their grounding in an established theory. It offers practical benefits promoting their immediate application in education and training settings, especially where DigComp has been adopted.
Mass Spectroscopy of Charmonium Using a Screened Potential
Authors: M Sreelakshmi , Ranjan Akhilesh
Published: February 2025

In this work, we estimate the mass spectra and decay properties of charmonium (

$$c \bar{c}$$

c

c

¯

) using a non-relativistic potential model. We employ a potential model incorporating a Coulomb like term, representing one gluon exchange at short distances, and a screening term representing quark confinement at long distances. Spin-dependent corrections are also added perturbatively. Our results are compared with available experimental data and some other theoretical models. Based on this, we have made some comments on interquark potential.
PERIODIC FUNCTIONS, TOROIDAL GROUPS, GENERALIZED JACOBIANS, AND FRACTIONAL IDEALS OF NON-TOTALLY REAL NUMBER FIELDS
Authors: Dioguardi Burgio Alessandro , Falcone Giovanni
Published: February 2025

In this paper, we collect a series of results exposed by the second author in Batumi on the occasion of XIV Annual International Conference of the Georgian Mathematical Union. These results connect the beautiful theory of toroidal groups and non-totally real number fields with that of generalized Jacobians of hyperelliptic curves.
Experimental assessment of hybrid binary and ternary fuel blends on CI engine performance, emissions, and combustion characteristics
Authors: Fareed Aisha F. , El-Shafay A. S. , Gad M. S. , Ağbulut Ümit
Published: February 2025

The increased density and viscosity of crude biodiesel derived from palm and waste cooking oils (WCO) present problems such as vaporization and atomization. A hybrid biodiesel mixture ensures to have better calorific values, lowest density, and viscosity. Biodiesel fuels were synthesized using the esterification and transesterification of palm and WCO, and it was blended in proportions of 10 and 20% with pure diesel. Combustion, performance, and emissions of diesel engine fuelling with hybrid biodiesel blends at load variation and rated speed of 3000 rpm were evaluated. Thermal efficiency was decreased with the increasing ratio of methyl ester in mixtures, whereas specific fuel consumption rose due to the diminished calorific value of methyl ester. In comparison with diesel fuel, biodiesel from palm (10%), waste cooking oil (10%), blended WCO (10%) + palm (10%), waste cooking oil (20%), and palm oil (20%) exhibited the most significant increases in specific fuel consumption, recorded at 1.5, 3.5, 6, 7, and 9%, respectively. Nonetheless, there were concomitant reductions in thermal efficiency of 2, 4, 5.5, 6.5, and 10%. Maximum reductions in smoke concentration for P10, W10, W10 + P10, W20, and P20 were 5, 7, 9, 10, and 12%, respectively. Maximum cylinder pressures were reduced by 1, 1.8, 2.8, 3.5, and 4%, on average, although the peak HRR regarding diesel fuel at maximum output power was dropped by 1, 2, 3.2, 4, and 4.5%. Hybridization of feedstocks with diverse properties improves performance, combustion, and emissions of diesel engines run by combinations of 10% palm and 10% WCO hybrid biodiesel. As an alternative fuel, hybrid palm and waste cooking methyl esters can be used to increase performance and combustion while lowering exhaust emissions.
Estimation of energetic and exergetic performances of new-generation alternative to the R404A refrigerants in vapor compression refrigeration system
Authors: Şahin Arzu Şencan , Yıldırım Ragıp
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the energetic and exergetic performance of subcooled and superheated vapor compression refrigeration system utilizing data mining techniques. New-generation refrigerants R457A and R459B, considered alternatives to R404A, were utilized in the system. The analysis focuses on the impact of temperatures in the subcooling, superheating, condenser and evaporator. Data mining methods including multilayer perceptron (MLP), linear regression, M5 rules, M5P model tree (M5P), random committee and decision table models were used to estimate both energy and exergy efficiencies. The MLP model proved to be the most effective approach for predicting the energy (COP) and exergy efficiencies of R457A and R459B. When the predicted and actual COP values were compared, R-squared (R2) values of 0.9997 and 0.9994 were obtained for R457A and R459B, respectively. Similarly, the R2 values for exergy efficiency were 0.9984 and 0.9989 for the same refrigerants. These results demonstrate the successful application of data mining, in particular the MLP model, in evaluating the complex processes involved in refrigeration system performance analysis. This approach provides engineers with a fast, accurate and user-friendly method for predicting the behavior of refrigeration systems.
Medication-induced causes of delirium in patients with and without dementia: a systematic review of published neurology guidelines
Authors: Weidmann Anita Elaine , Proppé Guðný Björk , Matthíasdóttir Rut , Tadić Ivana , Gunnarsson Pétur Sigurdur , Jónsdóttir Freyja
Published: February 2025

Background

While medication is a recognized risk factor of delirium, there is currently a lack of detailed information on managing and preventing medication-induced cases.

Aim

This review summarizes the information provided in neurology guidelines on medication-induced delirium in patients with and without dementia to inform guidance on prevention and management strategies.

Method

A systematic literature review was conducted across 114 neurological and medical organisations, Guideline Central and PubMed. Guidelines, consensus guidelines, white papers, frameworks, protocols, standard procedures, action plans and strategic documents detailing the prevention and management of medication-induced delirium in adults with or without dementia were included. Title and full-text screening was completed independently by two reviewers using PICOS. AGREE II was used to assess reporting quality. A data extraction tool was designed based on the Cochrane Effective Practice and Organization of Care Review Group (EPOC) checklist and a mixed methods approach to synthesis adopted. The systematic review protocol was registered with International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) [ID: CRD42022366025].

Results

Out of 143 guidelines identified, 30 were included. Information for 140 individual medications was extracted. Medications most frequently cited included sedatives (n = 24/80%), opioids (n = 22/73,3%), psychoactive drugs (n = 21/70%) + anti-convulsants (n = 14/46,7%), anti-cholinergic agents (n = 20/66,7%), antihistamines (n = 18/60%), and steroids (n = 16/53,3%). Despite a consistently high-quality rating (n = 19, 63,3%), the detail provided often lacks specificity about pharmacological mechanisms, individual risk, dosing instructions, associated symptoms, therapeutic alternatives and avoidable drug-drug combinations. In relation to dementia, detailed information on the use of antipsychotics, cholinesterase inhibitors and benzodiazepines was extracted. No papers were excluded based on their quality.

Conclusion

No single guideline contains enough information on the risk, prevention, and management of medication-induced delirium to sufficiently support clinical decision making.
Copper metallurgical slag as a sustainable precursor of iron oxide photocatalysts to remove indigo carmine dye from water using the photo-Fenton process
Authors: Valencia García Karen , Portilla-Sangabriel Melisa , Hernández-Gordillo Agileo , García-Mejía Tania-Ariadna , Ramírez-Zamora Rosa-María
Published: February 2025

The synthesis of an efficient composite photo-Fenton nanocatalyst was investigated using acid leaching processes of copper slag (CS) with two types of citric acid (EC = edible and AR = analytical-grade reagent). For this purpose, citric acid at room temperature or at 40 °C was used to lixiviate the elements from CS, and then, the leachates were subjected to a thermal treatment (350 °C). The formation of maghemite (γ-Fe2O3) accompanied with calcite as the main mineralogical phase was observed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies. The development of nanospheres dispersed in the calcite matrix and the proportion of γ-Fe2O3 in the catalyst or composite material were revealed by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), respectively. The catalyst performance in the Fenton and photo-Fenton processes was investigated in the degradation of the indigo carmine dye (IC, 10 ppm), achieving an efficiency of 96.1 ± 2.1% in 60 min, using 5 mM of H2O2 (30% weight) and UV-light (λ = 365 nm). The activity of these materials was analyzed and compared as a function of the specific surface area and the % γ-Fe2O3 in the composites. The preparation of maghemite-rich nanocomposite using the CS leachate, generated with edible citric acid, is an excellent alternative to substitute materials produced with analytical grade reagents because in the removal of IC dye, it showed similar efficiency, kinetics, and stability, but with lesser requirements of lamp energy radiation and doses of photocatalyst and oxidant, with respect to data reported in the literature.
Center frequency as optimal frequency of visual stimulation for spreading entrained gamma rhythms to other target brain regions in cognitively normal older adults
Authors: Yoon Euisuk , Park Yeseung , Kim Hong Jun , Park Jaehyeok , Han Ji Won , Woo Se Joon , Yoo Seunghyup , Kim Ki Woong
Published: February 2025

Gamma entrainment using 40 Hz sensory stimulation has shown promise in AD mouse models, but inconsistent results in AD patients, possibly due to interspecies and interindividual differences in center frequency (CF). This study aimed to investigate whether gamma rhythms entrained by visual stimulation at an individual’s CF can spread better than those at other frequency conditions in older adults. We entrained gamma rhythms in 32 cognitively normal older participants using light flickering at 32 Hz, 34 Hz, 36 Hz, 38 Hz, and 40 Hz. We identified each individual’s CF among these five frequencies and compared the spread, strength, and stability of gamma connectivity induced by light stimulation flickering at an individual’s CF with those at other frequencies using generalized estimating equation and repeated measures ANOVA. In about two-thirds of the participants, 32 Hz (40.6%) and 34 Hz (28.1%) were identified as CF. The mean spread, strength, and stability of gamma connectivity involving the visual cortex (GCV-NV) were higher than those do not involve the visual cortex (GCNV-NV, p < 0.05). Between the visual cortex and other brain regions, FLS induced with frequencies of high event related spectral perturbation values, including CF and non-center frequency (NCF) 1, generally induced broader, stronger, and more stable gamma connectivity compared to most other NCFs (p < 0.001 when comparing NCFs with either CF and NCF1 for both strength and spread; p = 0.012 when comparing CF and NCF3 for stability). Gamma rhythms entrained by visual stimulation may better spread to other brain regions when its frequency matched to the individual’s CF.
Investment evaluation of Augmented Reality-based
training: a human-centered model
Authors: Dallasega Patrick , Gualtieri Luca , Padovano Antonio , Rocca Giovanna
Published: February 2025

Despite the proven benefits of augmented reality (AR) in human-centered training, its widespread adoption is hindered by industrial companies’ difficulties in justifying the required investments due to unclear financial implications. Thus, having a tool to economically evaluate AR solutions for training is crucial for companies aiming to invest in educational programs. Accurate investment estimations for AR-based training require detailed analysis and data estimation, especially for human-centered applications. In this work, we propose a model to evaluate the economic feasibility of investing in AR-based industrial training, particularly focusing on the costs and benefits of a human-centered approach. This model links AR-related and human-centric factors to the cost and benefit variables used in standard models to compute common economic indices. A comprehensive methodology has been developed to support the model’s creation and validation based on a case study approach. Functionalities to support data estimation and alternative selection have been integrated into the model to enhance the reliability of its outcomes. The research findings and case study results advance training strategies and the implementation of AR applications in industry. They offer companies operating in complex industrial contexts a simple-to-use tool for evaluating the costs/benefits ratio and thus overcoming common technical and organizational barriers by clarifying financial implications, which are often a significant obstacle to the widespread adoption of new technologies like AR, especially when considering human-centric applications.
Effect of Lachnanthocarpone on the Structural and Functional Properties of a Protein-Starch-Based Film: A Promising Alternative for Active Packaging
Authors: Ramirez-Álvarez Milanyela , Mesa-López Kevin , Duarte-Correa Yudy , Mesías Ricardo , Granda-Restrepo Diana
Published: February 2025

Due to their adaptability, plastics are used in everyday products, including food, which need to be protected to retard spoilage reactions like lipid oxidation. However, today, the interest is in developing active food packaging materials with natural compounds such as α-tocopherol and lachnanthocarpone (2,6-dihydroxy-9-phenyl-1H-phenalen-1-one). The first is a natural antioxidant that has been successfully incorporated in different films. The second is a powerful natural antioxidant, with more than twice the activity of Trolox in vitro, which has scarcely been explored for its application in food or food packaging. The objective of the study presented here was twofold: first, it intended to evaluate, through a solvent-casting technique, the effects of these two antioxidants on some properties of films based on cassava starch and concentrated whey protein, and second, it aimed to analyze the biodegradability and functionality of lachnanthocarpone for developing active packaging using a commercial fresh-semi-hard cheese as a reference food. Results of the study showed significant differences between the films with antioxidants and the control film (without antioxidants); thus, the latter had the highest light transmittance of the films, indicating that the food was subjected to more significant oxidative damage. On the other hand, the former showed biodegradability characteristics and less quantity of hexanal production after 30 days of storage, which demonstrated its protective effect on the reference food, leading to lower lipid oxidation. These results suggest that the developed films with incorporated antioxidants are a promising alternative for reducing plastic food packaging materials, with the added value of oxidative protection.
A case of atypical infantile de novo antiphospholipid syndrome presenting with neonatal ischemic stroke without any triggering risk factors as a “second hit” and review of the literature
Authors: Bor Doruk , Bor Mustafa Vakur
Published: February 2025

Infantile antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is a rare condition arising from either transplacental transfer of antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) from the mother or de novo antibody production in the newborn. We present a unique case of cerebral artery thrombosis with persistently elevated anti-cardiolipin and anti-β2-glycoprotein-I antibodies, despite the absence of maternal aPL, suggesting primary de novo aPL synthesis. While the prevailing “second-hit” hypothesis suggests that additional thrombotic risk factors are required to trigger APS in infants, our case exhibited no prenatal, maternal, or thrombophilic risk factors. A literature review of 20 reported cases further confirmed that ours was the only case without additional thrombotic triggers among the 18 cases with complete data, challenging the necessity of a “second hit” in neonatal APS. Notably, aPL levels normalized over time without recurrence, raising questions about the need for long-term anticoagulation in select cases, including ours. These findings suggest a potential transient form of infantile APS and highlight the importance of sequential aPL testing to guide treatment. Further research is required to elucidate the mechanisms underlying de novo aPL synthesis and its clinical implications.
Strategies principals used to develop teachers’ psychological empowerment in primary schools, Ethiopia: qualitative study
Authors: Berhanu Kelemu Zelalem
Published: February 2025

The idea of empowerment has gained popularity recently as a powerful tool for improving organizational efficiency. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to examine strategies principals used to develop teachers’ psychological empowerment. A case study research approach was employed. Information was obtained from nine teachers and five principals through interviews. As a result, to empower teachers’ sense of meaning about their job, principals facilitate teachers to be internally motivated, memorize teachers about the tasks, dignity of the teaching profession, make teachers share experiences, associate the work environment with teachers’ personalities, and show students’ success. Principals also develop teachers’ sense of competency by providing different advice and ways, encouraging teachers to peer and self-assessments, providing training, giving recognition and rewards, and giving freedom. Moreover, to develop teachers’ feelings of impact and autonomy, principals recognize the contribution of teachers, share experiences, make teachers feel influential, encourage self-assessment, and provide autonomy to choose their instructional activities. Finally, to develop teachers’ sense of goal internalization, principals work together with teachers to draft school’s goals, remember school’s goals in different meetings, and so forth. This study also supports principals in developing and implementing effective empowerment strategies and achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4. Academically, this study adds something special to the body of knowledge on teacher empowerment in Ethiopian schools and offers insightful information for further research and real-world applications by highlighting the significance of various empowerment strategies to resource-constrained and culturally particular situations like Ethiopia.
On Consistently Assessing Alleged Mnemonic Systems (or, why isn’t Immune Memory “really” Memory?)
Authors: Colaço David
Published: February 2025

How should we assess systems whose mnemonic status is contested? There are, for instance, debates over whether immune memory is “really” memory, or akin to memory as ordinarily attributed to human cognition. In this paper, I challenge two arguments often given by detractors in this debate. The first is that the system does not exhibit errors exemplified in human memory. The second is that it can be described and explained in causal terms alone. I argue that our limited knowledge of the causal basis of immunological phenomena and human memory undercuts our ability to conclude that one is merely causal while the other is not. By consequence, it is unclear why we should reject that the immune system exhibits these errors. With my challenges, I question whether we are consistent in assessing alleged mnemonic systems. Though we have schematic causal accounts of both systems, we have differing expectations of what we can conclude about them. Yet, it is unclear what might warrant appeals to these expectations.
Harmonized Standards in the Public Domain? Better Not …
Authors: Tzoulia Eleni
Published: February 2025

This study critically examines the CJEU’s judgment in the case Public.Resource.Org, Inc., Right to Know CLG v European Commission on public access to harmonized standards. The study argues that these standards, as private documents held by the European Commission, are in principle subject to IP rights and should not be made unconditionally accessible for product safety or other sustainability-related purposes. The Court’s decision in this case reflects an overly permissive interpretation of the “overriding interest” concept under Art. 4(2) in fine of Regulation 1049/2001, deviating from established case law and raising competitive concerns. Determining whether an interest justifies the disclosure of an IP-protected EU institution document requires case-by-case assessments through a three-step test. This interest must be “public”, concrete, and “pressing”, without negating the underlying IP rights, while also adhering to the principle of proportionality.
Fracture mechanics analysis of steel bolted joints using a 3D global model based on peridynamics theory
Authors: Jinhai Zhao , Huanhuan Sun , Noroozinejad Farsangi Ehsan
Published: February 2025

The bolted joint is a crucial component of a steel structure, directly impacting the safety and reliability of the entire structure. At present, the linear elastic theory is used in the joint design of steel structures, but it fails to reflect the process of crack initiation and propagation clearly. The traditional methods of fracture mechanics, finite element method and extended finite element method are all based on differential calculation to analyze structural damage and failure. Still, the crack tip has a singularity and requires dynamic mesh division, and the precision of the local displacement field is insufficient. To this aim, the theoretical basis of peridynamics (PD) theory that uses an integral algorithm can be developed to solve and analyze problems, which would avoid the shortcomings of traditional methods. Therefore, in this paper, the 3D PD theory was introduced into the practical engineering field of bolted joints for the first time, and a new method was developed for the damage and failure analysis of these structural elements. To avoid directly considering the complex forces between the bolt and the hole wall, the PD physical model of the bolt and the base material as a whole was established, and the PD theoretical analysis program was developed to disperse the bolt and the base material into PD particles. By analyzing the interaction of PD particles under external load, the damage mechanism of bolts and base metal at different positions was analyzed. At the same time, PD analysis and finite element results are combined with actual structural failure forms to verify the accuracy of PD theoretical results. It provides a new theoretical basis and analysis tool for bolted connection design in the engineering field, which can help structural engineers to design more optimized bolted connections for steel structures.
Pediatric Headache Management in the Emergency Department: A Review of Challenges and Solutions
Authors: Mourid Marina Ramzy , Oweidat Majd , Okesanya Olalekan John , Abady Eslam Moumen Ali , Deeba Farah , Oboli Victor N. , Alsabri Mohammed
Published: February 2025

Background

Pediatric headaches are a common issue in emergency departments (EDs), presenting unique challenges in diagnosis and management.

Objectives

This review aims to explore the current landscape of pediatric headache management in EDs, identify challenges, and suggest solutions.

Methods

A narrative review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar to gather literature on pediatric headache management in EDs. Articles published in English within the last 10 years were prioritized, with key older studies considered. Inclusion criteria focused on studies addressing pediatric headache management in ED settings, while exclusion criteria removed studies on adult populations, non-ED settings, and non-peer-reviewed articles.

Results

The review highlights the complex nature of pediatric headaches, encompassing diverse presentations and underlying causes. Challenges include difficulties in accurate diagnosis, variations in treatment approaches, and the need for interdisciplinary care. Recent advancements in technology and non-pharmacologic treatments have shown promise.

Conclusion

Effective pediatric headache management in EDs requires improved diagnostic strategies, a multidisciplinary approach, and ongoing research to enhance patient treatment options and outcomes.
Decision-Making and Clustering Algorithms Based on the Scored-Energy of Hesitant Fuzzy Soft Sets
Authors: Alcantud José Carlos R. , Stojanović Nenad , Djurović Ljubica , Laković Maja
Published: February 2025

This paper introduces a novel numerical characteristic of hesitant fuzzy soft sets called their scored-energy. We introduce this concept as a combination of two very different tools, namely, scores of hesitant fuzzy elements and singular values of a (not- necessarily square) matrix. The latter idea replicates the concept of energy or nuclear norm of a matrix, which has excellent analytical abilities in graph theory and applications in fields such as statistics or signal processing. Natural algorithms establish applications of scored-energies to both clustering and decision-making. Through examples, we demonstrate how these new techniques are efficient and implementable in practice. Comparisons are conducted that prove their validity, reliability, and credibility.
Impact of climate change on the hydrological regime in a small watershed of the tropical Andean Plateau
Authors: Mena-Rentería Darwin , Peña-Guzmán Carlos , Sierra Ronal , Rodriguez Manuel
Published: February 2025

This study evaluated the impact of climate change on the hydrological regime of a small watershed in the Tropical Andean Plateau in Colombia. We used modeling tool Hydro-BID, a specialized software with hydrological and climatic modules that can evaluate the hydrological processes to generate models. This tool has the potential to inform water resource management and planning in Latin America and the Caribbean. To simulate future hydrologic flows, we selected the MOI-ESM-MR-CORDEX model for precipitation and the MOI-ESM-MR model for temperature. Projections for precipitation and temperature on a reduced scale were calculated using a method based on chaos theory for three representative concentration pathway (RCP) scenarios designated 2.6, 4.5, and 8.5 based on global climate models (GCMs) and regional climate models (RCMs). The results of the calibration process showed that the evaluated hydrological parameters are better represented by the model at a monthly scale. In addition, the climate change model showed an estimated increase in the average streamflow of 2.1% to 6% compared to a base scenario that represented current conditions (1.22 m3 s−1), with flow rates of 1.28 m3 s−1, 1.24 m3 s−1, and 1.29 m3 s−1 for RCPs 2.6, 4.5, and 8.5, respectively. These values, associated with a significant increase in precipitation and a decrease in temperature, are expected for the Tropical Andean Plateau watersheds of Colombia. The results obtained in this study are useful for water resource planners and policy makers, especially for the management of water supply infrastructure, flood risk, and agricultural productivity in the area.
Asiatic black bear in Pakistan: a comprehensive review and conservation indications
Authors: Ahmad Faizan , Rehan Muhammad , Bosso Luciano , Kabir Muhammad
Published: February 2025

The Asiatic black bear (Ursus thibetanus) is considered as globally vulnerable, and its distribution in Pakistan has drastically decreased. The current knowledge around its biology and ecology is still poor. To provide crucial management and conservation recommendations for this threatened bear in Pakistan and in other areas in the world, we examined all the literature published from 1977 to 2024 on the two subspecies of U. thibetanus living in Pakistan, i.e., the Baluchistan black bear (U. thibetanus gedrosianus) and Himalayan black bear (U. thibetanus laniger). We found 59 papers on the Asiatic black bear, with the majority of the studies focusing on the bears’ existence, distribution, and human-bear conflicts, while only one study used a genetic approach. Questionnaire/interview surveys emerged as the most used method, followed by sign surveys, camera trapping, and visual observations. Most of the publications were focused on the Himalayan black bear in Azad Jammu and Kashmir and the Mansehra district (northern Pakistan), while few studies have been conducted in Balochistan since 1977 for the subspecies Baluchistan black bear. This underscores a significant geographic gap in research, particularly in the southern Pakistan regions that host the threatened Baluchistan black bear. To address these gaps and improve conservation efforts, we recommend increasing applied research both inside and outside protected areas and employing updated methodologies like camera trapping, remote sensing, ecological modelling and genetic analysis. It is imperative to conduct studies across the entire distribution range, especially in understudied areas like southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, to ensure the long-term conservation of the Asiatic black bear across its entire distribution.
Current status and trends of wet-mate connectors
Authors: Zhao Long , Wu Guojun , Yan Zhaochao , Wang Dongsheng , Hang Dongdong
Published: February 2025

Wet-mate connectors, which are known for their advanced technical features and high costs, have found extensive applications in various seafloor engineering projects. After decades of development, this technology has reached an advanced stage, offering a wide range of products and comprehensive performance that essentially meet the requirements of various marine environments and engineering applications. This paper provides an overview of the historical development of wet-mate connectors, presents a summary of current technological advancements and applications, and outlines the product performance and characteristics of leading enterprises through market research. Subsequently, this paper presents an overview of the current development status, existing challenges, and the latest advancements in wet-mate connector technology in China. On the basis of this information, this paper offers a forward-looking analysis of the developmental trends of wet-mate connectors through an investigation of their functional components, technical challenges, and related engineering application issues. As wet-mate connector technology matures and its applications expand, wet-mate connectors are expected to gradually move toward standardization, with enhanced performance integration and increased safety and reliability. This trend is also anticipated to attract emerging countries and enterprises into this technological domain, intensifying market competition, reducing prices, and shortening supply lead times.
Individual Preparedness for Disasters and Emergencies: Research on Meskhetian Turks
Authors: Tercan Bahadır
Published: February 2025

Objective

The main objective of this study is to investigate the level of disaster preparedness and associated socio-demographic characteristics of Meskhetian Turks as a marginalized population who migrated to Erzincan, Turkey due to war and conflict.

Methods

A total of 426 individuals between the ages of 18-65 participated in this study. Data were collected through face-to-face interview technique by utilizing the General Disaster Preparedness Belief Scale. The t test and one-way ANOVA test and multiple regression analysis (Enter model) were used to analyze the data.

Results

The total scale scores of the participants ranged between 80-138, with a mean score of 105.43±10.88. It was determined that the disaster preparedness levels of those who were between 32-38 years of age, who had bachelor’s degree, who had disaster experience, and who received disaster training were higher. It was determined that there was a significant positive relationship between the disaster preparedness levels of the participants and age, education level, and disaster training.

Conclusions

Disaster preparedness levels of Meskhetian Turks were determined to be high. According to the results of the analyses, it was revealed that age, education level, and disaster training variables have a positive and significant effect on the level of disaster preparedness.
Isotopic Evidence of Diet and Mobility From the Megalithic Burials of the Rego da Murta Dolmens (Portugal)
Authors: Waterman Anna J. , Figueiredo Alexandra , Monteiro Cláudio , Alves Daniel , Ferreira Augusto , Somerville Andrew D. , Tykot Robert H. , Peate David W.
Published: February 2025

This study uses stable and radiogenic isotopic data from Chalcolithic (c. 3000–1900 bc) humans and animals recovered from the Rego da Murta dolmens (Alvaiázere, Portugal) to understand dietary and mobility patterns in the populations using these monuments. The results suggest diets based primarily on C3 plants and terrestrial animals, with some possible variation in protein intake by age or status. Analyses of 87Sr/86Sr values identify two individuals out of ten from Rego da Murta I and four individuals out of fifteen from Rego da Murta II as migrants. These data were compared to other Chalcolithic burials in south-western Portugal: while diets were found to be similar across the region, the very high 87Sr/86Sr values recorded for two migrant humans match no known settlement in the broader region. A recent mapping study of 87Sr/86Sr values in Portugal suggests their origins may lie to the north/north-east of the dolmens.
Host age preference and biology of Coccygidium luteum (Hymenoptera: Braconidae), a larval parasitoid of the fall armyworm
Authors: Beseh Patrick , Abraham John , Agboyi Lakpo Koku , Mensah Benjamin
Published: February 2025

Coccygidium luteum (Hymenoptera: Braconidae), a solitary larval parasitoid, is associated with the fall armyworm (FAW), in Africa. However, there is very limited information on reproductive biology, and other biological parameters that influence its life strategies. We conducted laboratory experiments to gain new insights into the biology of C. luteum reared on FAW as the host. Host age preference, reproductive biology, lifetime fecundity, life cycle, and adult longevity were studied under laboratory conditions of 28 ± 1°C and 70 ± 3% relative humidity. This study revealed that C. luteum prefer early (1st–3rd) instars of FAW for oviposition. The maximum parasitism rate was 80% at second instar larvae. A mean pre-oviposition period of 0.38 ± 0.51 days, oviposition period of 5.13 ± 0.64 days, and no post-oviposition period were observed. The mean lifetime parasitism rate of FAW larvae by female C. luteum was 49 ± 24. Longevity of unmated C. luteum was 14.44 ± 1.43 days for males and 12.83 ± 1.12 days for females. Mated ovipositing females lived for 7 days. Mean female and male progenies per adult female C. luteum was 28.11 ± 8.18 and 39.89 ± 4.76 respectively, with an overall sex ratio of 1.42 at 28 ± 1°C using second instar larvae. Total life cycle from oviposition to adult emergence was 23 ± 1 days. This study provides the basic information about C. luteum that could be utilised for mass rearing of this parasitoid under an augmentative biological control of FAW programme.
Gladiators at Roman Colchester: Re-Interpreting the Colchester Vase
Authors: Davis Glynn J.C. , Pearce John , Carroll Emily , Moore Joanna , Nowell Geoff , Montgomery Janet
Published: February 2025

The locally made colour-coated ware vessel known as the Colchester Vase is argued to be a commissioned piece recording a performance in the town. The inscription on the vessel, cut pre-firing, names individual arena performers depicted en barbotine. One name, Memnon, is argued to be a ‘stage name’ taken from a protagonist in the Trojan war. The connection of another combatant, Valentinus, to the 30th legion is re-considered as evidence for gladiators linked to the Roman army. The Vase's final use was as a cremation urn. Osteological and isotopic analysis reveals the cremated remains to be those of a non-local male of 40+ years; unlikely to be one of the performers, he may nevertheless have been closely connected to the event.
Values and Material Culture in Rosemary Sutcliff's Roman Britain Stories
Authors: Walsh David
Published: February 2025

This article discusses how the acclaimed twentieth-century author Rosemary Sutcliff drew upon the archaeological record to advance the didactic aspects of her narratives. Sutcliff was aware that she had a platform to instil certain values in her young readership, and these values were repeatedly exhibited by her protagonists, particularly bravery and fortitude in the face of adversity. In many cases, certain objects are passed down through the generations as a symbol of these values. Usually, these items were drawn either directly from the archaeological record or display close parallels with real-world objects. Subsequently, for the readers of Sutcliff's narratives, the real-world version of the artefact, or a similar item, become encoded with these values and serve to inspire them to emulate her heroes.
Rereading the Secundinus Stone from Vindolanda
Authors: Woods David
Published: February 2025

Meyer, Mullen, and Vanhala analysed the inscription SECVNDINVS CACOR accompanying the carving of a phallus on a stone excavated at Vindolanda and explained CACOR as the present passive of the verb cacare ‘to shit out’. I suggest that CACOR may have been intended in abbreviation of CACORVM, the neuter genitive plural of the adjective cacus, a transliteration of the Greek κακός ‘evil’, and that the phallus is depicted ejaculating over this word to symbolise its apotropaic power over evil.
Camera network-based visual servoing for aerial interceptor quadrotors
Authors: Wang Guojie , Liu Qingchen , Ma Qichao , Qin Jiahu
Published: February 2025

The problem of how to effectively track and intercept small aircraft that break into the no-fly zones is now attracting increasing interest in robotics society. Vision-based control has been proved an effective solution to the target tracking problem for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Due to the limited field of view (FOV) of onboard vision sensors, existing works assume that the target is always detectable during tracking or limit the flight speed of the UAV in practice. In this paper, inspired by the broad FOV of camera network, we are the first to propose an eye-to-hand (i.e., fixed cameras) visual servoing scheme to track and intercept aerial targets by using UAVs and ground visual sensors. Specifically, utilizing rotation matrices, we first present a visual servoing equation to convert the UAV motion in image planes to the inertial frame. Then, an image-based visual servoing controller is designed directly based on image errors of camera nodes in the sensor network, and system stability is proved by means of Lyapunov analysis. Additionally, to achieve the desired translational velocity command, a low-level attitude controller is developed based on the UAV dynamics. Finally, a series of experiments in both simulated and real flight scenarios show the outstanding efficacy of our method.
Submicron-scale detection of microbes and smectite from the interior of a Mars-analogue basalt sample by optical-photothermal infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Suzuki Yohey , Koduka Mariko , Brenker Frank E. , Brooks Tim , Glamoclija Mihaela , Graham Heather V. , Kieft Thomas L. , McCubbin Francis M. , Sephton Mark A. , van Zuilen Mark A.
Published: February 2025

For near-future missions planed for Mars Sample Return (MSR), an international working group organized by the Committee on Space Research (COSPAR) developed the sample safety assessment framework (SSAF). For the SSAF, analytical instruments were selected by taking the practical limitations of hosting them within a facility with the highest level of biosafety precautions (biosafety level 4) and the precious nature of returned samples into account. To prepare for MSR, analytical instruments of high sensitivity need to be tested on effective Mars analogue materials. As an analogue material, we selected a rock core of basalt, a prominent rock type on the Martian surface. Two basalt samples with aqueous alteration cached in Jezero crater by the Perseverance rover are planned to be returned to Earth. Our previously published analytical procedures using destructive but spatially sensitive instruments such as nanoscale secondary ion mass spectrometry (NanoSIMS) and transmission electron microscopy coupled to energy-dispersive spectroscopy revealed microbial colonization at clay-filled fractures. With an aim to test the capability of an analytical instrument listed in SSAF, we now extend that work to conventional Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) microscopy with a spatial resolution of 10 μm. Although Fe-rich smectite called nontronite was identified after crushing some portion of the rock core sample into powder, the application of conventional FT-IR microscopy is limited to a sample thickness of <30 μm. In order to obtain IR-based spectra without destructive preparation, a new technique called optical-photothermal infrared (O-PTIR) spectroscopy with a spatial resolution of 0.5 μm was applied to a 100 μm thick section of the rock core. By O-PTIR spectroscopic analysis of the clay-filled fracture, we obtained in-situ spectra diagnostic to microbial cells, consistent with our previously published data obtained by NanoSIMS. In addition, nontronite identification was also possible by O-PTIR spectroscopic analysis. From these results, O-PTIR spectroscopy is suggested be superior to deep ultraviolet fluorescence microscopy/μ-Raman spectroscopy, particularly for smectite identification. A simultaneous acquisition of the spatial distribution of structural motifs associated with biomolecules and smectites is critical for distinguishing biological material in samples as well as characterizing an abiotic background.
The Moderating Role of Corruption-Nexus Between Active Labor Market Policies and Unemployment in OECD Countries
Authors: Sahnoun Marwa , Abdennadher Chokri
Published: February 2025

This research is focused on investigating the efficiency of Active Labor Market Policies (ALMP) expenditures of Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries including institutional quality of governance. The emphasis is on the quality of governance that affects the supply and demand of employment and the ability of governments to master public spending. Using the general method of moments (GMM) for sixteen OECD countries over the 2005/2018 period, we show that Corruption Perception Index (CPI) reduced significantly the efficiency of ALMP on unemployment rate. This result is found consistent using another corruption proxy, Corruption Kaufmann Index (CKI). Moreover, our estimation suggest that the effectiveness of governance reinforces the effectiveness of ALMP.
Ambivalent Internationalisation: Reviewing Literature on the Social Policy Context for International Students in the United Kingdom and Implications for Social Exclusion
Authors: Thornton Isaac T. S. , Graber Rebecca , Tip Linda K. , Fleischer Stephanie
Published: February 2025

This study explored the social policy context for international students in the UK and its implications for social exclusion (an inability to fully participate in society). Within a rapid review policy literature addressing international student experience, forty-two articles from the Web of Science and Social Science Research Network (SSRN) were selected through multiple screenings. Migration and education were the most explored policy areas, followed by inequalities, work, health and wellbeing, security, and housing. Results demonstrated that policy both creates barriers to inclusion (e.g. hostile environment migration/bordering practices) and supports inclusion/adaption to social exclusion-related challenges (e.g. sanctuary scholarships for forced migrants, Graduate visas). All international students to some degree lack equitable participation in wellbeing-relevant provision. Overall, policies are constructed so the state and universities can extract value from internationals without fully including them in British society. Policies abdicate responsibility for students’ inclusion, making it expensive and complicated to build a life there.
On Paying Workers to Stop Working: Public Attitudes toward “Wage Buyouts”
Authors: Pelc Krzysztof
Published: February 2025

In an effort to manage carbon emissions, nitrogen runoffs, and other externalities, governments are increasingly resorting to a drastic policy measure: paying workers to stop working. Though such initiatives may be, strictly speaking, welfare enhancing, they are increasingly politicized, and often meet with protests. What explains public attitudes to “wage buyouts”? This article compares the explanatory power of two ideal-type theories in deriving a set of testable expectations. The first views work primarily as a means of earning a living; the second envisions it as a source of personal identity and social recognition. We test these opposing accounts using three survey experiments fielded on a combined sample of over 7,500 U.S. respondents. Overall, a sizeable portion of workers are resistant to being freed from work. Strikingly, individuals are more willing to reduce their work hours by half than to cease work entirely, even when offered full compensation. Those whose occupations are threatened by structural factors like offshoring or automation show lower identification with their jobs, and are accordingly more willing to accept government compensation for giving up those jobs. Program design matters: respondents are significantly more likely to accept compensation from their former employer than from the government. While partisanship drives attitudes towards government handouts, it is not significantly associated with attitudes towards (non)work. On the other hand, Protestants show consistently greater resistance to non-work, even when this results from a lottery windfall. These findings hold significant implications for climate and technology-driven labor displacement in years to come.