bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Multi-tiered Support and Empowerment of Youth At-Risk of Social Exclusion in VET in Norway
Authors: Tikkanen Tarja , Bruin Marieke , Moen Vegard 
Published: December 2024

AbstractIn this chapter we first introduce the Norwegian concept and model for supporting the social inclusion of VET students at-risk of social exclusion with respect to combating school dropout and the promotion of transitions between various learning contexts, such as school and work, and discuss in the light of available studies, how the model works when applying the inclusion principle in practice. We explain the Norwegian definition of dropout, the support system available for the successful completion of VET. Furthermore, we describe the basis, the basics, and prospects of inclusion as a concept and principle in education, and then take a critical look at its implementation in practice with special regard to vulnerable students in VET. The second part of the chapter is based on findings from empirical studies in Norway during the EmpowerVET project. Based on individual qualitative interviews, we first describe how these students themselves experience and voice their opportunities, prospects, and limitations in the context of VET. Thereafter, we describe how two exemplary schools work in practice to support these students through their interpretation and implementation of the Norwegian principle and model for inclusion, “the best for the pupil/students” (The Education Act). In the final section of this chapter, we draw some conclusions based on the analysis and discuss the model and its implementation.
The Empowerment of Socially Vulnerable Youth in the VET System of Latvia: Implications of a Systemic Orientation to the Needs of the Labour Market
Authors: Sloka Biruta , Buligina Ilze , Tora Ginta , Dzelme Juris , Brante Ilze , Angena Anna , Liepiņa Kristīne 
Published: December 2024

AbstractThe reduction in the Latvian population has created an urgent need to increase retention in the labour market, of not only high skilled entrepreneurs and competitive employees, but also to ensure that most of the VET students obtain a qualification relevant to the labour market. This also refers to vocational students at risk of dropping out due to a variety of reasons, including their unfavourable socio-economic backgrounds. In Latvia, after the EU accession it was a political decision to invest major funds in the development of VET, to increase the number of vocational students, as compared to the number of students in general education. According to the evaluation of the OECD and Cedefop, the progress is slow but steady. The success of the policy was determined by a set of factors, that included the modernisation of the curricula, successful introduction of the competence-based approach and work-based learning, as well as improving the overall competence of teachers and their well-being, to promote their individualised work with students and to avoid burn-out due to heavy workloads. Alongside these factors, massive investment in the VET institutions’ infrastructure and equipment, and co-operation with employers, has improved the prestige and attractiveness of VET. This has created the pre-conditions for retaining maximum numbers of students in the education system, including the students at risk of dropping out, especially due to disadvantaged socio-economic conditions.
On Some Cauchy Problems and Positive Linear Operators
Authors: Abel Ulrich , Acu Ana Maria , Heilmann Margareta , Raşa Ioan 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Durrmeyer type modifications of the Szász–Mirakjan operators were studied in several papers. We consider a general family of such operators. Basically, we investigate the relationship between the images of a function f under the operators and the solutions of a suitable linear and homogeneous partial differential equation of parabolic type with f as initial value.
Trans-nuclei CRISPR/Cas9: safe approach for genome editing in the edible mushroom excluding foreign DNA sequences
Authors: Koshi Daishiro , Sugano Junko , Yamasaki Fuga , Kawauchi Moriyuki , Nakazawa Takehito , Oh Minji , Honda Yoichi 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated protein 9 (Cas9)-assisted genome editing has been applied to several major edible agaricomycetes, enabling efficient gene targeting. This method is promising for rapid and efficient breeding to isolate high-value cultivars and overcome cultivation challenges. However, the integration of foreign DNA fragments during this process raises concerns regarding genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and their regulatory restrictions. In this study, we developed a foreign-DNA-free genome editing method in Pleurotus ostreatus by transferring the Cas9/guide RNA (gRNA) complex between nuclei in the dikaryotic state. We isolated a donor monokaryotic P. ostreatus strain expressing Cas9 and gRNA targeting pyrG by introducing a recombinant plasmid, which exhibited uracil auxotrophy and 5-fluoroorotic acid (5-FOA) resistance. This strain was then crossed with a pyrG+ recipient monokaryon, resulting in dikaryotic strains exhibiting 5-FOA resistance after mycelial growth. When these strains were de-dikaryonized into monokaryons through protoplasting, we obtained monokaryotic isolates harboring the recipient nucleus with small indels at the pyrG target site. Importantly, these isolates were confirmed to be free of foreign DNA through genomic PCR, Southern blotting, and whole-genome resequencing analyses. This is the first report of an efficient genome editing protocol in agaricomycetes that ensures no integration of exogenous DNA. This approach is expected to be applicable to other fungi with a dikaryotic life cycle, opening new possibilities for molecular breeding without the concerns associated with GMOs.

Key points
• Successful genome editing via CRISPR/Cas9 trans-nuclei manner in P. ostreatus.
• Recipient monokaryons from gene-edited dikaryons showed no exogenous DNA sequences.
• Efficient genome editing protocol for safer molecular breeding in mushroom fungus.

Graphical Abstract
A new anatomical finding: the paramastoid diverticulum of the sigmoid sinus
Authors: Rusu Mugurel Constantin , Toader Corneliu , Tudose Răzvan Costin 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Purpose
The sigmoid sinus (SS) is a major surgical landmark. The paramastoid process (PMP) occurs rarely. Inferior diverticula of the SS were not found or reported previously. We aimed to determine the incidence and detailed anatomy of such morphology of the SS.

Methods
Archived angioCT files of 25 males and 25 females were used. The morphology of the SS was checked on planar sections and by three-dimensional volume renderings.

Results
In 3 female cases (6%), inferior paramastoid diverticula of the SS (PMDSSs) were found, two on the right and one on the left. They were all protruding on the inferior side of the jugular process of the occipital bone. Their heights and inner diameters were, respectively, 9.94/11.01 mm, 8.21/4.85 mm and 5.97/8.72 mm. A high jugular bulb was also found on that side in each case. Each PMDSS had a thin or dehiscent bottom. They were closely related to condylar veins, the occipital artery, the vertebral artery and its venous plexus.

Conclusion
The PMDSS should not be mistaken as a PMP to avoid surgical lesions of the SS. The PMDSS is an unexpected landmark in the suboccipital region.
Extraction of parameters of a stochastic integrate-and-fire model with adaptation from voltage recordings
Authors: Kiessling Lilli , Lindner Benjamin 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Integrate-and-fire models are an important class of phenomenological neuronal models that are frequently used in computational studies of single neural activity, population activity, and recurrent neural networks. If these models are used to understand and interpret electrophysiological data, it is important to reliably estimate the values of the model’s parameters. However, there are no standard methods for the parameter estimation of Integrate-and-fire models. Here, we identify the model parameters of an adaptive integrate-and-fire neuron with temporally correlated noise by analyzing membrane potential and spike trains in response to a current step. Explicit formulas for the parameters are analytically derived by stationary and time-dependent ensemble averaging of the model dynamics. Specifically, we give mathematical expressions for the adaptation time constant, the adaptation strength, the membrane time constant, and the mean constant input current. These theoretical predictions are validated by numerical simulations for a broad range of system parameters. Importantly, we demonstrate that parameters can be extracted by using only a modest number of trials. This is particularly encouraging, as the number of trials in experimental settings is often limited. Hence, our formulas may be useful for the extraction of effective parameters from neurophysiological data obtained from standard current-step experiments.
Minimal-invasive, image guided, 360-degree resection of ilio-lumbo-sacral ostechondroma, planned on the 3D model in a child with hereditary multiple ostechondroma (HMO)
Authors: Bobinski Lukas , Tachtaras Evangelos , Hedström Erik 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Hereditary Multiple Osteochondromas (HMO), previously known as Multiple Hereditary Exostoses (MHE), is a genetic disorder characterized by the formation of multiple, benign, exostoses (osteochondromas) growing from the metaphyseal region of long bones as well as from the axial skeleton. Lesions originating from the lumbar spine region are rare, and are most common growing from the posterior element of the vertebrae. HMO associated osteochondromas are difficult to treat due to continuous and incontrollable growth of these lesions and a lifetime risk for malignant transformation.

Case report
We describe a case of a 16-year old patient with known HMO who developed a giant ilio-lumbo-sacral osteochondroma. The tumor protruded into the L4-S1 intraspinal foramina with exophytic expansion to the right psoas muscle and lumbar plexus with compression of the right common iliac vein. To plan and execute the resection and minimize the risk of complications, we used a 3D printed model of the lesion with intraabdominal vessels. The patient was operated during a two-stage procedure - first by mini-open, transabdominal, navigated resection of the lesion, followed by delayed posterior, mini-invasive, navigated resection. The outcome was uneventful and there were no signs of regrowth or malignant transformation during 4 years of follow-up.

Conclusion
We describe a 360-degree surgical resection with application of a 3D printed model, navigation, and mini-invasive techniques. Our report may be useful and inspire spine surgeons to apply similar techniques to treat complex spine lesions.
Exploring the spatial clustering and spillover effects of COVID-19 vaccination uptake in Romania: an analysis at municipality level
Authors: Mare Codruta , Belbe Stefana , Petrovici Norbert 
Published: December 2024

AbstractThis study investigates the spatial clustering and spillover effects of COVID-19 vaccine uptake in Romania, focusing on the municipality-level distribution of vaccine acceptance and hesitancy while considering the factors that influence it. The research uses the Spatial Durbin Error Model (SDEM) and identifies spatial clusterization, as well as significant contagion and diffusion processes in the vaccination behaviour conditioned by socioeconomic factors, labour market characteristics, social and religious attitudes, urban, and health indicators. We find evidence in favour of spatial spillover effects of the poverty rate, opposition to same-sex marriage, COVID-19 infection rate, peri-urban towns, and denser cities. Our findings contribute to the literature of the spatial distribution and determinants of vaccine uptake and carry practical implications for policy makers offering evidence-based insights that can inform targeted strategies and interventions to enhance vaccine acceptance and address hesitancy in specific locations.
Efficient calculation of the equilibrium composition in multicomponent batch adsorption with the steric mass action model
Authors: Kaiblinger Norbert , Hahn Rainer , Carta Giorgio 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Streamlined relationships are derived to predict the equilibrium composition in batch adsorption when the isotherm is described by the steric mass action (SMA) model, which is used extensively to represent macromolecule adsorption on ion exchange resins. In the general case with N components, the approach reduces the mathematical problem from a system of 2N equations to a single non-linear algebraic equation whose numerical solution is easily found. A graphical approach is also presented where isotherm lines describing mixture equilibrium values of the adsorbed concentrations of each component are plotted against the equilibrium solution concentration of a common reference species. In this case, the actual equilibrium composition is obtained at the intercept of the reference component equilibrium curve with the straight line representing the material balance for the reference species. Analytical expressions are provided for two and three-component mixtures. The graphical approach provides insight on the effects of the ratio of adsorbent and solution volumes on the equilibrium composition.
The Informal, Non-Prescribed Use of Antiretroviral Medications for PrEP Among a National US-Based Sample of Gay, Bisexual, and Other Men Who Have Sex with Men: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Buttram Mance E. , Ellis Matthew S. , Samuel Krishen D. , Hayhurst Matthew 
Published: December 2024

AbstractThis brief report presents findings on informal, non-prescribed PrEP use among an online sample of gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (n = 196). Mean age was 33.4. Participants were Hispanic (13.3%), African American (15.8%), white (63.8%), and other race/ethnicity (6.6%). Informal PrEP users (11%) more frequently reported past year sexually transmitted infections (p < 0.001), group sex (p < 0.001), sex in public (p < 0.01), transactional sex (p < 0.001), ever receiving a formal PrEP prescription (p < 0.05), and ease of finding diverted HIV medications on gay dating/sex apps (p < 0.05). Formal PrEP uptake should be encouraged to mitigate potential negative consequences of informal use.
Factors Associated with Housing Stability Among Individuals with Co-Occurring Serious Mental Illness and Substance Use Disorders Receiving Assertive Community Treatment Services
Authors: Yuan Yeqing , Manuel Jennifer 
Published: December 2024

AbstractAssertive Community Treatment (ACT) is a community-based, multidisciplinary mental health treatment model with improved housing stability as a treatment goal. We know little about factors contributing to housing stability among ACT participants with co-occurring serious mental illness and substance use disorders, who account for 30% of the ACT participant population. Informed by the behavioral model of health service use, the present study aimed to examine the relationship between housing stability and theoretically relevant factors. We retrospectively abstracted the data from two ACT teams’ treatment service planning and tracking system. Stable housing was defined by living in a private residence or permanent supportive housing throughout the assessment periods; unstable housing was defined by having at least one unstable housing situation (e.g., jail or prison) throughout the assessment periods. The sample included 57 individuals with 272 assessment charts. Multivariate logistic regression results show that service engagement was associated with housing stability and that receiving housing supportive services was inversely associated with housing stability. The findings support prior literature in that service engagement remained a “critical ingredient” of the ACT model and highlights the importance of the supportive aspect of housing services in improving housing stability among individuals with co-occurring disorders.
Stress Generation in Social Anxiety: A Longitudinal Study of the Role of Post-Event Processing
Authors: Moriishi Chihiro , Maeda Shunta 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Background
Individuals with social anxiety experience a larger number of negative life events. However, studies applying the stress generation model to social anxiety are limited, and factors predicting stress generation have not been adequately examined. This study examined whether post-event processing (PEP) predicted stress generation in social anxiety.

Methods
Five hundred students participated in the survey. The survey was conducted at two time points (T1 and T2), collecting data regarding PEP, negative life events (negative interpersonal dependent events, negative non-interpersonal dependent events, and negative independent events), social anxiety symptoms, and depressive symptoms.

Results
PEP measured at T1 did not significantly predict the experience of negative dependent events at T2. Social anxiety symptoms did not predict the experience of negative interpersonal dependent events, while depressive symptoms predicted the experience of all negative life events.

Conclusions
PEP may not be a predictor of stress generation in social anxiety. The influence of depressive symptoms should be considered in the stress generation model.
A systems-based approach to ensure berry crops health status: from the breeder to the field
Authors: Singh Shivani , Villamor Dan E. V. , Poudyal Dipak Sharma , Sierra-Mejia Andrea , Tzanetakis Ioannis E. 
Published: December 2024

AbstractAdvancements in breeding have facilitated the global expansion of berry cultivation. This expansion has also spread pathogens and diseases, primarily because traditional detection methods often fail to identify asymptomatic pathogen infections, allowing for the propagation of infected material. This communication proposes a systems-based approach utilizing modern technologies for effective pathogen detection and elimination. We emphasize the need for strict certification standards and best management practices in nurseries to maintain healthy berry stocks. By integrating advanced testing and elimination methodologies with rigorous certification, we anticipate an increase in the sustainability of the berry industry, contributing to its long-term viability.
Thermal Transport and Thermal Diffusivity by Laser Flash Technique: A Review
Authors: Sundar R. , Sudha C. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Thermophysical properties encompassing specific heat, thermal conductivity, thermal diffusivity and thermal expansion and their temperature dependence is most sought after during selection of materials for various engineering applications. In this review a broad perspective on the thermal transport in metals and alloys, thermal energy carriers and factors affecting their mean free path is presented. Following the discussion on thermal transport, various techniques available for measuring thermal diffusivity, their principle of detection, merits and demerits are deliberated with an emphasis on laser flash analyzer. Theory of laser flash analysis, possible causes for deviation in the theoretical assumptions that affect the accuracy of measured diffusivity and ways and means of improving the same is dwelt upon. Finally, few typical case studies on thermal diffusivity measurements covering broad spectrum of materials differing in chemistry, degree of deformation, and heat treatment conditions are presented to demonstrate the sensitivity of thermal diffusivity to microstructural changes in materials.
When the Burden Lifts: The Effect of School and Day Care Reopenings on Parents’ Life Satisfaction
Authors: Tobler Lina , Christoph Bernhard , Fervers Lukas , Jacob Marita 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
The availability of childcare services eases parents’ daily lives and research has shown that it positively affects well-being, especially for mothers. However, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted established childcare arrangements, with school and day care closures adding to parental burdens. Despite extensive discourse on the influence of these closures on parental well-being, few studies have empirically analysed the effects of the increase in childcare responsibilities associated with the closures on the well-being of parents. We seek to address this gap by examining the impact of school and day care reopenings on parental well-being. We expect that parents’ life satisfaction will increase when schools and day care facilities are reopened—and that this effect is particularly strong for mothers. Leveraging the variation in the time of reopenings across Germany’s federal states, we employ a difference-in-differences and a difference-in-difference-in-differences approach to assess changes in well-being. The research design accounts for state-level differences and potential confounding factors related to the pandemic. By using data from the German IAB-HOPP study, which offers timely measures of life satisfaction, we aim to quantify the effects of reopenings on parental well-being. Results show only a small and marginally positive effect of reopenings on average life satisfaction among parents. However, this is due to a strong and significant effect of reopenings on mothers’ life satisfaction and no significant effect for fathers. Our findings contribute to research on the division of unpaid labour and childcare and support the notion that public childcare provision is crucial, particularly for mothers’ life satisfaction.
Band evolution and 2D nonreciprocal wave propagation in strongly nonlinear meta-plates
Authors: Gong Chen , Fang Xin , Cheng Li 
Published: December 2024

AbstractNonlinear meta-materials/structures can enable exotic wave phenomena, leading to extraordinary functionalities, but the bandgap properties and nonreciprocal wave manipulation in high-dimensional nonlinear metamaterials, such as plates, are not fully understood. In this study, we examine the band evolution and nonreciprocal wave propagation in a two-dimensional (2D) strongly nonlinear meta-plate based on analytical methods and numerical integration on the infinite model. The 2D dispersion curves are obtained through combining harmonic balance and Shooting-Newton iteration methods. Numerical studies show that the 2D nonlinear meta-plate exhibits band degeneration and self-adaptive propagation, analogous to 1D cases. However, as confirmed analytically, both band degeneration and self-adaptivity are regulated by the spatial wave divergence in the 2D meta-plate. Furthermore, combining nonlinear and linear portions of a meta-plate entails nonreciprocal wave propagation in 2D space with elucidated physical properties and mechanisms specific to 2D wave propagation. In light of the above, this work presents new computational methods as well as the elucidation of new wave phenomena and properties which are conducive to wave manipulation in 2D strongly nonlinear meta-materials/structures.