bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative study of CNN-based and conventional fault interpretation methods: a study of the deep-water Orange Basin, South Africa
Authors: Maduna N.G. , Manzi M.S.D. , Nwaila G.T.
Published: January 2025

Image-based deep learning methods, especially convolutional neural networks (CNNs), are gaining traction in seismic interpretation, but their application still demands manual validation. This study compares a U-Net structured CNN, called Fault-Net, with conventional edge-enhancing seismic attributes of variance and chaos, which serve as a scientific baseline. We adopted two seismic interpretation workflows: (1) conventional attributes to enhance fault features, and (2) a deep learning-based workflow for fault segmentation using CNNs. Both workflows were applied to a high-resolution 3D seismic dataset from the structurally complex deep-water Orange Basin (South Africa). While deep learning-based software packages are commercially available, it is unclear whether they are suitable for the Orange Basin and in an academic setting due to their proprietary architectures and generally closed training data. This study provides public evidence of the feasibility of automated structural interpretation in complex seismic datasets using deep learning, revealing both key benefits and limitations. Where high-quality labelled data are available, the deep learning approach is faster and tends to produce a cleaner and more accurate depiction of larger faults compared to conventional methods. The open availability of Fault-Net makes deep learning-based interpretation particularly advantageous for academic settings, offering significant time and resource efficiency while enhancing the understanding of complex subsurface structures.
Making Software Development More Diverse and Inclusive: Key Themes, Challenges, and Future Directions
Authors: Hyrynsalmi Sonja M. , Baltes Sebastian , Brown Chris , Prikladnicki Rafael , Rodriguez-Perez Gema , Serebrenik Alexander , Simmonds Jocelyn , Trinkenreich Bianca , Wang Yi , Liebel Grischa
Published: January 2025

Introduction
: Digital products increasingly reshape industries, influencing human behavior and decision-making. However, the software development teams developing these systems often lack diversity, which may lead to designs that overlook the needs, equal treatment or safety of diverse user groups. These risks highlight the need for fostering diversity and inclusion in software development to create safer, more equitable technology.

Method
: This research is based on insights from an academic meeting in June 2023 involving 23 software engineering researchers and practitioners. We used the collaborative discussion method 1-2-4-ALL as a systematic research approach and identified six themes around the theme “challenges and opportunities to improve Software Developer Diversity and Inclusion (SDDI)”. We identified benefits, harms, and future research directions for the four main themes. Then, we discuss the remaining two themes, Artificial Intelligence & SDDI and AI & Computer Science education, which have a cross-cutting effect on the other themes.

Results
: This research explores the key challenges and research opportunities for promoting SDDI, providing a roadmap to guide both researchers and practitioners. We underline that research around SDDI requires a constant focus on maximizing benefits while minimizing harms, especially to vulnerable groups. As a research community, we must strike this balance in a responsible way.
Development of a Service-Oriented Interoperability Framework: The Botswana E-Government System Case Study
Authors: Thela Bonani , Zlotnikova Irina , Galani Malatsi , Sigwele Tshiamo
Published: January 2025

Efficient information exchange between government entities and citizens is crucial for effective governmental service delivery. However, e-government systems in developing countries like Botswana face challenges due to a lack of communication and integration among these systems. This case study addresses the interoperability challenges in Botswana's e-government systems by exploring and documenting the development of the e-government service-oriented interoperability framework (e-GSOIF). This framework integrates various technological and methodological approaches to improve service delivery and efficiency. It incorporates service-oriented architecture (SOA), event-driven architecture (EDA), ontologies, a refined software development lifecycle methodology, and the interoperability practical implementation support (IPIS) approach. The study pinpoints key factors impacting e-government system implementation and interoperability in Botswana through interviews, questionnaires, and observation. It also identifies essential technical components for E-Government Interoperability. The e-GSOIF framework is evaluated against the original IPIS framework using exploratory factor analysis and compatibility assessment with predefined functionality criteria, demonstrating its superiority. This paper targets government officials, IT specialists, researchers, and students interested in e-government services interoperability. It offers insights into advancing the landscape of e-government service delivery through an effective interoperability framework.
Recent Advances in Nontargeted Screening of Chemical Hazards in Foodstuffs
Authors: Wang Yang , Gao Boyan , Li Yuanyuan , Shi Changzhi , Li Hui , You Zecang , Fang Mingliang , Wang Chenxu , Deng Xiaojun , Shao Bing
Published: January 2025

The emergence of several chemical substances continues to enrich and facilitate the development of food science, but their irrational use also poses a threat to food safety and human health. Nontargeted screening (NTS) has become an important tool for rapid traceability and efficient identification of chemical hazards in food matrices. NTS in food analysis is highly integrated with sample pretreatment, instrumental analysis platforms, data acquisition and analysis, and toxicology. This article is a systemic review of current sample preparation, analytical platforms, and toxicity-guided NTS techniques and provides the latest advancements in workflows and innovative applications of the NTS process based on mass spectrometric techniques. High-throughput toxicity screening platforms play an important role in NTS of unknown chemical hazards of complex food matrices. Advanced machine learning and artificial intelligence are increasingly accessible fields that may effectively process large-scale screening data and advance food NTS research.
Should oral examination be reimagined in the era of AI?
Authors: Eachempati Prashanti , Komattil Ramnarayan , Arakala Arathi
Published: January 2025

As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to reshape education, concerns about the authenticity of student work have escalated, particularly in relation to written assignments influenced by AI-powered tools. This article explores the role of the oral examination as a valuable method for assessing true student understanding and considers its potential for broader use across various educational levels. We propose that oral exams could be effectively integrated into undergraduate courses, providing a means to verify student comprehension in an era of AI-generated content. By adopting oral assessments, educators can enhance academic integrity while fostering essential skills such as critical thinking and effective communication in today’s technology-driven world.
Steel Slag as Sand Replacement in Concrete: A Systematic Review of Fresh, Mechanical, and Durability Properties
Authors: Zadeh Adel A. , M. Puffer Sheila , Ahadisarkani Seyedehtahereh , Ahmadi Fahimeh
Published: January 2025

The sand crisis has received growing attention in recent years, and a number of substitutes have been examined by researchers in order to reduce the use of river sand. Typical substitutes are industrial by‐products that would otherwise require land for waste disposal. Steel slag (SS) is one such by‐product that can be used as a replacement for alluvial sand in concrete. A comprehensive review of the effects of sand replacement by SS on physical, mechanical, and durability properties of concrete is presented in this study. The primary objectives of this study are to (1) evaluate the impact of varying proportions of SS as a sand substitute on the mechanical and durability properties of concrete, (2) identify the optimal percentage of SS replacement to achieve enhanced performance, and (3) address the existing knowledge gap regarding the sustainability of using SS in concrete applications. A systematic review of the available data revealed the promising application of SS as sand replacement in concrete with enhanced concrete strength and durability. Considering all aspects of concrete applications, the optimum level of SS replacement is reported in a range from 30% to 60%, meeting concrete’s physical, mechanical, and durability expectations. The findings also show further research is needed to determine the durability of SS concrete (SSC) for different intended applications.
Implantoplasty‐Aided Prosthetic Rehabilitation for the Management of Peri‐Implantitis in Maxilla Reconstructed With Free Fibula Flap: A Clinical Report
Authors: Yerramsetti Ajay , Vijayamohan Manju , Peter Maya Rajan , Subhas Pramod
Published: January 2025

For managing peri‐implantitis, a variety of treatment modalities involving both surgical and nonsurgical methods including implantoplasty have been proposed. Implants that are placed in a free fibula flap are more prone to peri‐implantitis due to the absence of firm, keratinized mucosa. Prosthetic design that offers adequate hygiene access should be designed whenever possible; otherwise, it may lead to the accumulation of plaque or biofilm that may lead to peri‐implant diseases. Implantoplasty, which is performed in advanced peri‐implantitis cases that cause exposure of implant threads, has been proposed as a reliable approach to preventing progressive peri‐implant bone loss by modifying the exposed implant surface. This clinical report details the management of severe peri‐implant bone loss in a maxilla reconstructed with a free fibula flap by combining soft tissue management, implantoplasty, and prosthetic rehabilitation.
Exploring the Benefits of Nutrition of Little Millet: Unveiling the Effect of Processing Methods on Bioactive Properties
Authors: Kumari Annu , Sadh Pardeep Kumar , Kamboj Ajay , Yadav Babli , Kumar Anil , Sivakumar S. , Surekha  , Saharan Baljeet Singh , Brar Basanti , Goyal Chhaya , Dhull Sanju Bala , Duhan Joginder Singh
Published: January 2025

Many terrible illnesses and disorders that modern man is dealing with today were not even known to ancient man. The only factor contributing to this disastrous situation is dietary habits. Thus, by avoiding and controlling them, replacing meals high in empty calories with nutrient‐dense millets helps to alleviate the combined burden of contemporary metabolic illnesses and malnutrition. Because millet contains various nutrients, including proteins, minerals, lipids, vitamins, phytochemicals, dietary fiber, and complex carbohydrates, it positively impacts the immune system. Among whole millets, little millet (Panicum sumatrense) is one nutritious millet that contributes significantly to the supply of macro‐ and micronutrients and bioactive substances, including phenols, tannins, and phytates. However, some processing techniques, such as germination, fermentation, milling, and extrusion, impact little millet’s nutrients and bioactive chemicals by increasing or decreasing these phytochemicals. These nutrients and bioactive substances have physiological and beneficial properties related to health, such as weight management, antioxidants, antidiabetics, anticancer, antiobesity, and cardiovascular disease potential. It is also beneficial in preventing the risk of inflammatory, antirheumatic, and chronic disorders, as it possesses various value‐added bioactive compounds such as kaempferol, luteolin, and apigenin. Little millet also contains some antinutrients such as tannins, oxalate, trypsin inhibitors, and phytate. These substances bind to the necessary nutrients, rendering them unavailable or limiting their utilization. The nutrients, processing effects, bioactive compounds, and health advantages of these compounds in little millet are all summarized in this paper.
Examining the Mediating Role of Grit and Self‐Efficacy in the Association Between Growth Mindset and Job Satisfaction in a Sample of Chinese Nurses
Authors: Zhang Xiaoyan , Qiu Chen , Li Xiaolin , Shekara Aniruddha , Suo Xueling , Wang Song
Published: January 2025

Aims: This study aimed to explore the relationship between growth mindset and job satisfaction among Chinese nurses, and to examine the underlying mediating role of grit and self‐efficacy in this relationship.

Background: As a long‐standing research topic in nursing management, job satisfaction plays an essential role in patient care, healthcare organizations, and nurses’ career planning and development. Therefore, it is extremely important to explore the psychosocial factors that contribute to nurses’ job satisfaction.

Design: A descriptive, cross‐sectional survey design was used.

Methods: Data were collected from 709 nurses during the COVID‐19 pandemic in southwest of China by using standard measures of growth mindset, grit, self‐efficacy, and job satisfaction. Models 4 and 6 in the SPSS PROCESS 3.2 macroprogram were used to analyze the mediating effects.

Results: We found a positive relationship between Chinese nurses’ growth mindset and their job satisfaction; grit and self‐efficacy played a mediating role in this relationship. Moreover, there was a significant chain mediating effect of grit and self‐efficacy on the relationship between growth mindset and job satisfaction.

Conclusions: Our study highlights the complex interactions among growth mindset, grit, self‐efficacy, and job satisfaction by revealing that grit and self‐efficacy serve as parallel and sequential mediators in the link between growth mindset and job satisfaction among Chinese nurses.

Implications for Nursing Management: Nursing administrators can attempt to promote nurses’ growth mindset and enhance their grit and self‐efficacy, thereby improving job satisfaction.

Reporting Method: Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) criteria were used to report the survey results.
Prognostic Implications of Sex in Patients With Heart Failure With Mildly Reduced Ejection Fraction: Results From a Large‐Scaled Registry
Authors: Reinhardt Marielen , Behnes Michael , Weidner Kathrin , Abumayyaleh Mohammad , Lau Felix , Schmitt Alexander , Abel Noah , Duerschmied Daniel , Weiß Christel , Akin Muharrem , Akin Ibrahim , Schupp Tobias
Published: January 2025

Background

The study investigates the prognostic impact of sex and sex‐related differences in patients hospitalized with heart failure with mildly reduced ejection fraction (HFmrEF). More data regarding the characterization of patients and their outcomes in the presence of HFmrEF are needed.

Methods and Results

Consecutive patients hospitalized with HFmrEF (ie, left ventricular ejection fraction 41%–49% and signs or symptoms of HF) were retrospectively included at one institution from 2016 to 2022. Female patients were compared with male patients with regard to the primary end point of all‐cause mortality at 30 months (median follow‐up). Statistical analyses comprised Kaplan–Meier, multivariable Cox proportional regression analyses and propensity score matching. From a total of 2184 patients hospitalized with HFmrEF, 64.6% were male. Female patients with HFmrEF were older than male patients (median age 78 versus 73 years;
P
=0.001) and had lower rates of ischemic cardiomyopathy (46.6% versus 63.6%;
P
=0.001). Within the entire study cohort, sex was not associated with the risk of all‐cause mortality (hazard ratio [HR], 0.931 [95% CI, 0.797–1.088];
P
=0.372). However, male sex was associated with a lower risk of HF‐related rehospitalization at 30 months (HR, 0.761 [95% CI, 0.600–0.966];
P
=0.026), which was confirmed after multivariable adjustment (HR, 0.759 [95% CI, 0.592–0.973];
P
=0.029) and propensity score matching (HR, 0.722 [95% CI, 0.539–0.967];
P
=0.029).

Conclusion

Although almost two thirds of patients hospitalized with HFmrEF were male, sex was no predictor for the risk of all‐cause mortality at 30 months. However, female sex was associated with a higher risk of HF‐related rehospitalization.

Registration

URL: https://clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT05603390.
Coexisting Calcific Aortic Stenosis and Transthyretin Cardiac Amyloidosis: Real‐World Evaluation of Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes
Authors: Masri Ahmad , Chen Yong , Colavecchia A. Carmine , Benjumea Darrin , Crowley Aaron , Jhingran Priti , Kent Matthew , Wogen Jenifer , Pankratova Cindi , Jimenez Alvir Jose Maria , Bhambri Rahul
Published: January 2025

Background

The coexistence of transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis (ATTR‐CA) and aortic stenosis (AS) is increasingly recognized, but the clinical consequences are unclear. We aimed to characterize clinical outcomes in AS plus ATTR‐CA compared with only AS or ATTR‐CA.

Methods and Results

In a retrospective cohort study, patients with AS only, ATTR‐CA only, or AS plus ATTR‐CA were identified using all‐payer claims data (2015–2021). Eligible patients had ≥1 claim for AS or cardiac amyloidosis (excluding light‐chain cardiac amyloidosis); were aged ≥60 years; and were continuously enrolled in medical plans for ≥6 months after diagnosis. Ad hoc subanalyses were conducted in patients with aortic valve replacement at first diagnosis (surrogate for severe AS). Of 355 430 eligible patients, 345 771 (97.3%), 8453 (2.4%), and 1239 (0.3%) were included in the AS‐only, ATTR‐CA–only, and AS–plus–ATTR‐CA cohorts, respectively; 41 312 (11.9%), 14 (0.2%), and 212 (17.1%) had aortic valve replacement. Two‐year mortality rates were 16.1% (95% CI, 15.9–16.2), 14.8% (95% CI, 13.9–15.7), and 19.2% (95% CI, 16.9–21.8) in the AS‐only, ATTR‐CA–only, and AS–plus–ATTR‐CA cohorts; heart failure hospitalization rates were 29.4% (95% CI, 29.2–29.5), 22.8% (95% CI, 21.9–23.8), and 48.7% (95% CI, 45.7–51.7). AS plus ATTR‐CA was associated with increased risk of death (HR, 1.3 [95% CI, 1.1–1.4];
P
<0.0001) and heart‐failure hospitalization (HR, 1.9 [95% CI, 1.8–2.1];
P
<0.0001) versus AS alone. In the aortic valve replacement subgroup, AS plus ATTR‐CA was associated with an increased mortality rate (HR, 1.4 [95% CI, 1.1–1.8];
P
=0.003) but not heart failure hospitalization (HR, 1.1 [95% CI, 0.9–1.3];
P
=0.07) versus AS only.

Conclusions

Patients with AS plus ATTR‐CA experience worse clinical outcomes than patients with AS only. Increased awareness of these coexisting conditions may help facilitate earlier screening and improve prognosis.
Burden of Valvular Heart Diseases in a Racially and Ethnically Diverse Population: The Bronx‐Valve Registry
Authors: Scotti Andrea , Sturla Matteo , Echarte‐Morales Julio , Ho Edwin C. , Millin Antonella , Coisne Augustin , Ludwig Sebastian , Leone Pier Pasquale , Rosiene Joel , Granada Juan F. , Goldberg Ythan , Pu Min , Jorde Ulrich P. , Slipczuk Leandro , Rodriguez Carlos J , Garcia Mario J. , Latib Azeem
Published: January 2025

Background

Valvular heart disease (VHD) is a major focus of cardiovascular medicine, but limited data are available for racial and ethnic minorities. The aim was to assess the burden and clinical correlates of VHD in a highly diverse area of the United States.

Methods and Results

Individuals with echocardiographic diagnosis of native VHD between January 2010 and December 2019 at a quaternary care health system of the Bronx (New York, USA) were included. Prevalence and correlates of VHD were assessed per each racial and ethnic group. From a total of 330 570 adult echocardiograms, 80 584 individuals were diagnosed with VHD and included in the final study population. Stratified by race and ethnicity, 38.0%, 23.2%, 2.1%, and 36.7% were non‐Hispanic Black, non‐Hispanic White, Asian, and Hispanic, respectively. The mean age was 67.7±16.3 years, with non‐Hispanic Black, non‐Hispanic Asian, and Hispanic individuals being younger and having a higher burden of comorbidities. The prevalence of VHD increased with age, irrespective of race or ethnicity. In people aged ≥75 years, tricuspid and mitral regurgitation were the most prevalent VHD (21.1% and 16.1%, respectively). Non‐Hispanic White individuals more frequently had tricuspid regurgitation, mitral regurgitation, and multiple VHDs, but among those aged <65 years, these were more frequent in non‐Hispanic Black individuals.

Conclusions

Our Bronx‐Valve Registry illustrates that the burden of VHD is high, increases with age, and varies among racial and ethnic groups. When diagnosed with VHD, non‐Hispanic Black, non‐Hispanic Asian, and Hispanic individuals are younger and with a higher burden of comorbidities. Appropriate resources and strategies need to be implemented to minimize racial and ethnic disparities and promote equity in VHD diagnosis and cardiovascular risk factor management.

Registration

URL:
https://clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique Identifier: NCT05453526.
Janus Kinase 2/Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3/Cyclooxygenase 2 Signaling Pathway Mediates the Effect of Central Angiotensin II on the Elevation of Rostral Ventrolateral Medulla Prostaglandin E
2
‐Induced Oxidative Stress in Hypertension
Authors: Fan Jie‐Fu , Tan Xing , Wang Wen , Li Ji‐Kui , Xiao Yu‐Chen , Wang Wei‐Zhong , Wang Yang‐Kai
Published: January 2025

Background

Prostaglandin E
2
(PGE
2
) in the rostral ventrolateral medulla (RVLM) has been recognized as a pivotal pressor substance in hypertension, yet understanding of its effects and origins in the RVLM remains largely elusive. This study aimed to elucidate the pivotal enzymes and molecular mechanisms underlying PGE
2
synthesis induced by central Ang II (angiotensin II) and its implications in the heightened oxidative stress and sympathetic outflow in hypertension.

Methods and Results

RVLM microinjections of PGE
2
and Tempol were administered in Wistar‐Kyoto rats. Intracisternal drug delivery and adeno‐associated viral vectors microinjection were used in both Wistar‐Kyoto rats and spontaneous hypertensive rats to modulate the function of Ang II, PGE
2
receptor 3, and expression of COX2 (cyclooxygenase 2). Microinjection of PGE
2
into the RVLM significantly augmented sympathetic activity (25.380±1.566%) and oxidative stress level, whereas intracisternal infusion of a prostaglandin E receptor 3 antagonist attenuated sympathetic activity in both spontaneous hypertensive rats and Ang II‐induced hypertensive rats. Furthermore, Ang II treatment upregulated COX2 expression in RVLM neurons (1.000±0.112 versus 1.506±0.370 fold change), with no significant effect on other enzymes involved in PGE
2
synthesis. Additionally, inhibition of the JAK2/STAT3 (Janus kinase 2/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3) signaling pathway nullified Ang II‐mediated elevation of COX2 expression, as evidenced by phosphorylated STAT3 binding to the COX2 sequence in PC12 cells.

Conclusions

Central Ang II induces the accumulation of RVLM PGE
2
through the neuronal AT1R (angiotensin type 1 receptor)/JAK2/STAT3/COX2 pathway, thereby promoting oxidative stress, augmenting sympathetic outflow, and contributing to essential hypertension.
Current and Projected Burden of Ischemic Cerebrovascular Events: Nationwide Estimates From the Dijon Stroke Registry, France
Authors: Béjot Yannick , Duloquin Gauthier
Published: January 2025

Background

This study aimed to assess attack rates of ischemic cerebrovascular events (CVEs) in a population‐based registry and to estimate the current and projected burden of the disease in whole France.

Methods and Results

All cases of ischemic CVE (including ischemic stroke and transient ischemic attack) were prospectively identified through the population‐based Dijon Stroke Registry, France (2013–2020). Annual attack rates and temporal trends were assessed. The number of patients in whole France and projections by 2050 were estimated by standardization to age‐ and sex‐specific attack rates. A total of 2869 cases of ischemic CVE were recorded (mean age, 75.7±15.9 years, 54.4% women) including 1763 ischemic stroke and 1106 transient ischemic attack (crude attack rate, 230/100 000 per year). The age‐standardized rate was 237 (95% CI, 229–246), with rates of 144 (95% CI, 137–150) for ischemic stroke and 93 (95% CI, 88–98) for transient ischemic attack. The rates were 152 (95% CI, 145–159) and 85 (95% CI, 80–90), respectively, when considering the tissue‐based American Heart Association/American Stroke Association definition. The attack rate during the 2019 to 2020 period was slightly lower than that observed during 2013 to 2014 (age‐standardized attack rate ratio, 0.90[95% CI, 0.81–0.99];
P
=0.035) but did not differ from that of other periods. The number of ischemic CVEs was estimated to be 164 126 annually in France during 2013 to 2020. An increase of 35% and 56% is expected by 2035 and 2050, respectively.

Conclusions

Our study highlighted a high burden of ischemic CVE that has been largely underestimated in France by administrative databases. Despite roughly stable attack rates over time, the absolute number of cases is expected to dramatically increase in coming years, thus questioning the sustainability of the health care system.
Two new species of Tomocerus (Ocreatomurus) Yu from Xizang, China (Collembola, Tomoceridae)
Authors: YU DAOYUAN , XUE HUIYING , ZHANG FENG
Published: January 2025

Two new species of Tomocerus (Ocreatomurus) are described from Gyirong Valley, Xizang Autonomous Region, China. Tomocerus (Ocreatomurus) gyirongensis sp. nov. and Tomocerus (Ocreatomurus) oppositus sp. nov. are both similar to Tomocerus (Ocreatomurus) spinulus Chen & Christiansen, 1998 in the absence of blunt dorsal chaetae on manubrium and presence of single large distal dental spines, but these three species can be distinguished mainly by body color, number of tibiotarsal strong inner chaetae, number and position of manubrial prominent chaetae, and arrangement of basal dental spines.
Description of a new species of the leafhopper genus Mimotettix Matsumura (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Deltocephalinae) from China
Authors: HU SHANGMI , RAN SIYU , XING JICHUN
Published: January 2025

A new leafhopper species: Mimotettix fodingshanensis sp. nov. is described and illustrated from Guizhou Province, China. A checklist and a key to species of the genus from China are provided. The type specimens of the new species are deposited in the Institute of Entomology, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China (GUGC).
Stolen Valor? Examining the Associations Between Military Service, Data Breach Victimization, and Identity Theft Victimization
Authors: Maher Cooper A. , Holt Thomas J.
Published: January 2025

Veterans have been identified as a group that is vulnerable to victimization. Despite this, few works have sought to determine whether their risk is consistent across subpopulations within this community, and whether they face a similarly elevated risk of data breach victimization. Using the 2018 wave of the NCVS-ITS ( n = 92,642), logistic regressions suggest that veterans and military servicemembers face greater risk of data breach and identity theft victimization, but that this risk is not consistent across subpopulations within this community. Further, a positive association was observed between data breach victimization and odds of identity theft. Findings highlight the need for nuanced measures of veteran status, and are discussed in light of research and policy implications.
Apocalittici o crociani? Note su Paura della libertà
Authors: Gasperina Geroni Riccardo
Published: January 2025

Apocalittici o crociani? Note su Paura della libertà, Carlo Levi's debt to his “master-enemy” Benedetto Croce has been both acknowledged and disavowed by critics. Nevertheless, several notes from a 1933 notebook might further certify this influence. Held at the Carlo Levi Fund of the Renzo Deaglio Library in Alassio, its unpublished transcription is reproduced here in the appendix. The diary, which also contains much information about Levi's industrious painting activity, includes notes from the complete reading of Poesia e non poesia. Note sulla letteratura europea del secolo decimonono by Croce, published by Laterza in 1923. This essay focuses on the complex relationship that binds Levi to the controversial philosophical and aesthetic legacy of the Neapolitan thinker, as with many other intellectuals of his generation.
Only Spot a Few Blacks the Higher I Go: Occupational Segregation and the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Williams Jhacova , Franklin Taylor , Brown Andre
Published: January 2025

This paper examines whether there exists a link between occupational segregation by race and labor market outcomes during the COVID-19 pandemic. We estimate the extent to which workers who were employed in occupations with higher concentrations of Black workers were more likely to indicate a change in employer, a change in hours employed, or a change in earnings during the pandemic. The results show that Black workers employed in occupations with higher concentrations of Black workers were more likely to indicate a reduction in hours and earnings compared with White workers employed in occupations with similar concentrations of Black workers during the pandemic. These results do not exist between Hispanic and White workers when comparing individuals employed in occupations with similar concentrations of Hispanic workers.
Examining bilingual school psychologist demographics, training experiences, and multicultural competencies
Authors: Wolf Jaclyn N. , Vega Desireé , Tanaka Marie L.
Published: January 2025

The number of emergent bilingual (EB) students in U.S. schools is growing rapidly; as a result, many have explicitly looked to bilingual school psychologists (BSPs) to meet their needs. Often, there is an assumption that being bilingual also equips one with the appropriate competencies for bilingual school psychology practice. BSPs, like monolingual ones, still require specific training in the competencies needed to meet EB students’ unique needs. However, little is known about their training experiences, and much variability in credentialing requirements and coursework directly impacts how EB students are served in schools. Thus, utilizing the National Association of School Psychologists’ Bilingual School Psychologist Directory, the present study sought to better understand BSPs across the United States ( N = 235) using questionnaires to gather their demographic information, training experiences and needs, and self-reported multicultural competencies. Results indicated marked variability in how BSPs are trained, with many university training programs lacking the coursework, supervision, and/or practical experiences necessary to obtain appropriate practice competencies. Relatedly, participants reported a high level of multicultural competency overall, but more in regard to theory than skills and knowledge for practice, indicating the need for further training. Recommendations and implications for the training and supervision of BSPs are provided.
A case study on integrating arts activities with the loose parts in preschool’s in-between spaces
Authors: Liao Mei-Ying , Chen Lee-Chen , Huang Po-Ya
Published: January 2025

This study investigated the integration of loose parts into preschool arts education to enhance children’s learning experiences, particularly within in-between spaces and centered around music, combining visual arts and dramatic play. Conducted as a case study in a Taiwanese private preschool, the research explored the use of loose parts in art activities inspired by the song “Joyfully Setting off Firecrackers” during the Lunar New Year festival. Over 3 months, a teacher guided seven children, collecting data through interviews, teacher journals, and analyses of children’s work. The findings revealed that selecting a distinctive children’s song allowed the teacher to design engaging activities that encouraged exploration of musical elements and diverse artistic expressions, thereby increasing motivation and collaboration. The curriculum involved environmental exploration, associating loose parts with musical elements, and culminated in creating listening maps and ensemble performances. By integrating visual arts and dramatic play around music, this strategy enhanced children’s enthusiasm for creative expression and facilitated esthetic development. The study also highlighted the environment’s crucial role in shaping engagement, with a preference for outdoor activities. This research contributes to literature by underscoring the value of integrating arts education with loose parts, enhancing children’s learning experiences and fostering creative engagement.
BoundMPC: Cartesian path following with error bounds based on model predictive control in the joint space
Authors: Oelerich Thies , Beck Florian , Hartl-Nesic Christian , Kugi Andreas
Published: January 2025

This work introduces the BoundMPC strategy, an innovative online model-predictive path-following approach for robot manipulators. This joint-space trajectory planner allows the following of Cartesian reference paths in the end-effector’s position and orientation, including via-points, within the desired asymmetric bounds of the orthogonal path error. These bounds encode the obstacle-free space and additional task-specific constraints in Cartesian space. Contrary to traditional path-following concepts, BoundMPC purposefully deviates from the Cartesian reference path in position and orientation to account for the robot’s kinematics, leading to more successful task executions for Cartesian reference paths. Furthermore the simple reference path formulation is computationally efficient and allows for replanning during the robot’s motion. This feature makes it possible to use this planner for dynamically changing environments and varying goals. The flexibility and performance of BoundMPC are experimentally demonstrated by five scenarios on a 7-DoF Kuka LBR iiwa 14 R820 robot. The first scenario shows the transfer of a larger object from a start to a goal pose through a confined space where the object must be tilted. The second scenario deals with grasping an object from a table where the grasping point changes during the robot’s motion, and collisions with other obstacles in the scene must be avoided. The adaptability of BoundMPC is showcased in scenarios such as the opening of a drawer, the transfer of an open container, and the wiping of a table, where it effectively handles task-specific constraints. The last scenario highlights the possibility of accounting for collisions with the entire robot’s kinematic chain. The code is readily available at https://github.com/TU-Wien-ACIN-CDS/BoundMPC , inspiring you to explore its potential and adapt it to your specific robotic tasks.
Combining Probability and Nonprobability Samples on an Aggregated Level
Authors: Aliste Sofía F. Villalobos , Scholtus Sander , Waal Ton de
Published: January 2025

Probability surveys are experiencing important drawbacks nowadays: costs are relatively high and participation rates are decreasing, which could yield less accurate estimates. Alternatively, nonprobability samples like administrative records are having a rise in popularity due to their convenience and low costs. Unfortunately, nonprobability samples are often selective and, as the underlying sampling design is unknown, estimators based on such samples are generally biased. Research is ongoing on how to deal with this selection bias. In this paper, a method is proposed that combines estimators from a probability and nonprobability sample on an aggregated level. Our estimator is constructed as a weighted mean of both estimators. The weight is chosen to minimize the expected value of the mean squared error (MSE) of the combined estimator under an assumed model for the bias in the estimator based on the nonprobability sample. Our method does not require any data on the level of the individual units in the samples. We performed simulation studies where two different methods of modeling the bias in the nonprobability sample were tested. We also applied one of these methods to a real dataset from Statistics Netherlands and showed that the MSE was indeed reduced in a real application.
Migraine and its major subtypes – with and without aura are associated with polygenic scores for autism
Authors: Mohammad Salahuddin , Bussu Giorgia , Rukh Gull , Schiöth Helgi B. , Mwinyi Jessica
Published: January 2025

Background

Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) experience a wide array of neurological, psychiatric and medical comorbidities, yet little attention has been given to the potential link between ASD and migraine, one of the most prevalent neurological disorders worldwide. This study aimed to investigate whether a genetic predisposition for ASD is linked to migraine and its major subtypes, with and without aura. Additionally, potential moderator and mediators of the association between ASD and migraine were explored.

Methods

Polygenic scores (PGS) for ASD were constructed based on the genome-wide association study by the Psychiatric Genomics Consortium, on the UK Biobank cohort dataset comprising 337,386 participants using PRSice-2. Regression analyses were performed to investigate the association of ASD PGS with migraine and its major subtypes, with and without aura. Sex was explored as a potential moderating factor. The mediation analyses took into consideration variables such as education, personality trait neuroticism, body mass index (BMI) and four categories of comorbidities (psychiatric, vascular, neurologic and others).

Results

ASD PGS were signiﬁcantly and positively associated with migraine (odds ratio (OR) = 1.04, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.02–1.05, p < 0.002), migraine without aura (OR = 1.05, 95% CI = 1.02–1.07, p < 0.002) and migraine with aura (OR = 1.05, 95% CI = 1.02–1.07, p < 0.002). No moderating effect of sex on the association between ASD PGS and migraine was observed. As for potential mediators, only the personality trait neuroticism significantly mediated the association between ASD PGS and migraine, with the proportion of effect mediated 8.75% (95% CI = 4–18%).

Conclusions

Our study suggests that individuals genetically predisposed to autism are at higher risk of experiencing migraine, including the two major subtypes, with and without aura. While emphasizing the complex shared genetic and pathophysiological interactions of these conditions, the role of personality trait neuroticism as a mediator of this relationship is highlighted.
The Lives of Infamous Children: Living Children's Roles in Cases of Suspicious Infant Deaths and Infanticide in Nineteenth and Early Twentieth Century Ontario
Authors: Nicholas Jane
Published: January 2025

This article examines children's roles in infanticide cases in late nineteenth and early twentieth century Ontario. Using criminal and coroner case files, it argues for the value of fragmentary evidence to reveal the varied ways girls and boys participated in and reported on suspicious infant deaths. Children could be involved in helping to dispose of infant remains from births in their households and were otherwise witnesses to girls’ and women's reproductive crises. They advocated for their mothers who had been accused of infanticide. The article argues that age is a crucial category for the study of infanticide.
Challenges to autonomy: The occupied social centres of Milan and platform capitalism
Authors: Grenfell Raymond , Butta Fausto
Published: January 2025

This article investigates the relationship between occupied social centres in Milan, Italy, and social media platforms. It reviews literature on the political and cultural significance of occupied social centres as spaces enabling of political autonomy since the 1960s. Then through participant observation and interviews conducted in late 2022, the research examines how platform capitalism – online media platforms and the connective ecosystem in which they exist – has impacted on three occupied social centres in the greater Milan area: ZAM, Boccaccio and Piano Terra. Their members interviewed for this study described three broad approaches to dealing with the social media of platform capitalism, starting with the most popular: to engage strategically with social media platforms for outreach while attempting to create a physical prefigurative political space; to ignore and disengage from social media platforms; and to create and use their own platforms. The article discusses the nuances and tensions in and around these approaches that can further understandings about how social media platforms impact capacity to create and sustain occupied social centres and, potentially, other forms of prefigurative space.
Characterizing Difficulties and Management of Sleep Disturbances in a Tertiary Palliative Care Unit—A Retrospective Review
Authors: Schacter Jennifer , Pilkey Jana
Published: January 2025

Objective: Difficulty sleeping is common in palliative care, however often unrecognized by palliative care physicians. This retrospective review aims to gain a better understanding of the causes and treatment of sleeping disturbances in a tertiary palliative care unit. Methods: This study included 200 palliative care inpatients admitted between January 1, 2015, and August 31, 2020. Patients with sleep disturbances were placed into 3 subgroups: insomnia, delirium, and those with an unclear diagnosis. These categories were analyzed by bivariate analysis (ANOVA, Kruskal-Wallis) to determine statistical significance. Results: A total of 156 (78%) patients had symptoms suggestive of sleep disturbance and 163 (81.5%) patients were prescribed a sedative for sleep disturbance. Most patients were prescribed lorazepam (52 [26%]), followed by haloperidol (47 [23.5%]), and zopiclone (33 [16.5%]). Benzodiazepine and zopiclone prescribing decreased over time, while antipsychotic prescribing remained stable. When analyzed according to the most likely cause of the sleep disturbance, patients with insomnia had a higher Palliative Performance Score ( P < .035) and were more likely to have a previous medical history of insomnia ( P < .0003) than those with delirium. Both insomnia and delirium were quickly diagnosed but patients with unclear sleep disturbances took longer to recognize and treat. Conclusion: These results suggest that sleep disturbances are common at the end of life and can be challenging to categorize. Using specific criteria may be helpful in differentiating insomnia versus delirium and ultimately lead to more consistent approaches to management.
A Communicative Model of Voicing: The Processes and Strategies of Constructive Employee Voicing in the Renewable Energy Industry in Kenya
Authors: Kiura Mary , Kim Heewon
Published: January 2025

Purpose: This study investigates the phases of voicing processes and associated communicative strategies in the context of the renewable energy industry in Kenya. Data collection and findings: Drawing on in-depth interviews ( N =23), we propose a communicative model of voicing that consists of the fundamental voicing phases of ideating, planning, initial enactment, reflexive enactment, and outcome. These phases are co-constructed in ongoing interactions among organizational members, challenging the assumption that voicing is an individual, one-shot endeavor. From the perspectives of both supervisors and subordinates, our findings unveiled a spectrum of communication strategies utilized throughout the voicing phases. Implications: Our study advances voice scholarship by reconceptualizing constructive employee voice as an interactive, ongoing, and processual communicative act. Further, our findings contribute to voice scholarship by elucidating: (a) how voicers navigate the risks associated with voicing, (b) how power and status disparities influence the choice of communication strategies across the voicing phases, and (c) the ways voicers’ peers contribute to the voicing process. Our study offers practical insights for voicers, voicers’ peers, recipients, and organizations into how to cultivate effective and meaningful voicing.
Optimisation of performance and emission parameters of a CI engine fuelled with kapok oil methyl ester–turpentine oil blends and diethyl ether additive
Authors: Paneerselvam Udayakumar , Ganapathy Kasiraman
Published: January 2025

The article aims to investigate the characteristics of compression ignition (CI) engines fuelled with blends of kapok oil methyl ester (KME) and turpentine oil (TO) with the inclusion of diethyl ether (DEE) as a fuel additive and the RSM has been used to analyse the engine characteristics. The design matrix is created for 50% to 100% loading and 30% to 70% blending in TO with kapok methyl ester. The experiment was conducted on a water-cooled 5.2 kW CI engine and 30%, 50%, and 70% of KME and TO blend. According to the test results, 50–50 KME and TO have a brake thermal efficiency of 29.13%. Another design matrix was designed for a load range of 50% to 100% and DEE of 0% to 20% in a 50 KT blend. The 50 KT blend with 20% DEE has the highest brake thermal efficiency (30.30%) and the lowest brake-specific energy consumption. The emissions of carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and smoke decrease to 8.25 g/kWh, 0.13 g/kWh, and 57%, respectively. The combustion process leads to the highest peak pressure and net heat release rate, which are 72 bar and 74.93 kJ/OCA, respectively. The outcome is 50–50% turpentine and kapok oil methyl ester blends, with 20% DEE have improved the performance and reduced the emissions.
Influence of process parameters on the machinability features of shape memory alloy kovar during WEDM
Authors: Ukey Kamal , Sahu Anil R. , Majumder Himadri
Published: January 2025

Kovar, nickel-cobalt-iron shape memory alloy (SMA) exhibits a unique combination of properties, including low thermal expansion, high electrical conductivity, and excellent resistance to corrosion which makes it a popular choice for a variety of applications, particularly in industries where precision and reliability are crucial. The novelty lies in the thorough examination of how different pulse durations, including on-time (Ton) and off-time (Toff), as well as wire tension (WT) and wire feed rate (WF), influence responses such as arithmetic mean roughness (Ra), material removal rate (MRR), cutting speed (CS), and kerf width (KW) during wire electrical discharge machining (WEDM). It was observed that Ton and WT were more significant than Toff and WF for most of the responses. The satisfactory level of error graph shows the efficiency of the overall experiments. This work provides valuable facts and information on the WEDM parameters for Kovar alloy, which will improve the manufacturing process's productivity, efficiency, and effectiveness.
Process optimization and kinetics of biodiesel production from microalgal oil using potassium doped biochar heterogeneous catalyst
Authors: Devi T. , Baskar Gurunathan , Pravin Ravichandran
Published: January 2025

Biodiesel is considered to be an economical and eco-friendly substitute to fossil fuels. The present research was focused on the synthesis of potassium doped biochar catalyst from wood dust waste. The synthesized activated biochar catalyst was subjected to characterization using various techniques such as FT-IR, SEM-EDAX, XRD analysis which showed possible higher catalytic efficiency. The microalgae Chlorella vulgaris oil was used for the biodiesel production through transesterification reaction using the synthesized potassium doped biochar catalyst. The reaction parameters were optimized using statistical methods and the optimized conditions were found to be of 5.46% of catalyst dosage, 10.39:1 of methanol to algal oil ratio, 61.41 °C of temperature and 75.3 min of time with the highest biodiesel yield of 91.9%. The reaction kinetics was studied and it was found to follow the first-order kinetics with an activation energy of 12.18 KJ/mol. The catalyst reusability study exhibited higher catalytic performance until fourth cycle. Overall, the utilization of microalgae as a biofuel source and industrial waste as a catalyst contributes to sustainable biodiesel production and promotes a greener environment by reducing dependency on fossil fuels and minimizing industrial waste.