bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A goodness of fit framework for relational event models
Authors: Amati Viviana , Lomi Alessandro , Snijders Tom A B 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
We introduce a novel procedure to assess the goodness of fit in relational event models. Building on existing auxiliary variable approaches developed in network modelling, the procedure involves a comparison between statistics computed on observed relational event sequences and statistics calculated on event sequences simulated from the fitted model. We argue that the internal time structure of the relational mechanisms assumed to generate the observations under the model is an important aspect of the fit of a model to observed relational event sequences. We establish the empirical value of the proposed goodness of fit approach in an analysis of data that we collected on collaborative patient-referral relations among healthcare organizations. The illustrative case study that we develop reveals distinctive features of relational event models that have been ignored or overlooked in received empirical studies.
Nonparametric identification of causal effects in clustered observational studies with differential selection
Authors: Ye Ting , Westling Ted , Page Lindsay , Keele Luke 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The clustered observational study (COS) design is the observational counterpart to the clustered randomized trial. COSs are common in both education and health services research. In education, treatments may be given to all students within some schools but withheld from all students in other schools. In health studies, treatments may be applied to clusters such as hospitals or groups of patients treated by the same physician. In this paper, we study the identification of causal effects in COS designs. We focus on the prospect of differential selection of units to clusters, which occurs when the units’ cluster selections depend on the clusters’ treatment assignments. Extant work on COSs has made an implicit assumption that rules out the presence of differential selection. We derive the identification results for designs with differential selection and that contexts with differential cluster selection require different adjustment sets than standard designs. We outline estimators for designs with and without differential selection. Using a series of simulations, we outline the magnitude of the bias that can occur with differential selection. We then present 2 empirical applications focusing on the likelihood of differential selection.
On the instrumental variable estimation with many weak and invalid instruments
Authors: Lin Yiqi , Windmeijer Frank , Song Xinyuan , Fan Qingliang 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
We discuss the fundamental issue of identification in linear instrumental variable (IV) models with unknown IV validity. With the assumption of the ‘sparsest rule’, which is equivalent to the plurality rule but becomes operational in computation algorithms, we investigate and prove the advantages of non-convex penalized approaches over other IV estimators based on two-step selections, in terms of selection consistency and accommodation for individually weak IVs. Furthermore, we propose a surrogate sparsest penalty that aligns with the identification condition and provides oracle sparse structure simultaneously. Desirable theoretical properties are derived for the proposed estimator with weaker IV strength conditions compared to the previous literature. Finite sample properties are demonstrated using simulations and the selection and estimation method is applied to an empirical study concerning the effect of body mass index on diastolic blood pressure.
Hoarseness due to subcutaneous emphysema: a rare presentation of diverticular perforation
Authors: Bormann Sydney L , Wood Rebekah , Guido Jenny M 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Pneumomediastinum and subcutaneous emphysema usually result from alveolar rupture and rarely from colonic perforation. Although steroid use has been shown to increase the risk of complicated diverticulitis, there is limited data on the role Addison’s disease may play in the development of colonic perforation. We present a rare case of a patient with Addison’s disease who presented with hoarseness and was found to have massive subcutaneous emphysema, pneumomediastinum, and pneumoretroperitoneum secondary to complicated diverticulitis.
Three cases of non-infectious necrotizing stromal keratitis after corneal refractive surgery
Authors: Chen Hu , Shen Ting , Tan Ling Tong 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
We reported three cases of aseptic necrotizing stromal keratinitis after corneal refractive surgery (two with small incision lenticule extraction and one with femtosecond laser-laser-assisted insitu keratomileusis). There were three young women who had undergone corneal refractive surgery had white aseptic infiltrating foci along or away from the stroma in both eyes or one eye on regular review, all of whom denied systemic disease or chronic ocular disease. Two patients were diagnosed with aseptic necrotizing corneal stromal inflammation, and one patient was diagnosed with delayed necrotizing corneal stromal inflammation. In our opinion, before corneal refractive surgery, medical history inquiry is very important. More attention should be paid to patients with vaccination history and foreign travel history. In addition, the possibility of delayed corneal stromal inflammation should be considered for patients with poor binocular corrected vision.
Case report: cardiac tamponade secondary to candida pericarditis
Authors: Jette Nicholas , Gebhardt Colin , Coustinos Dimitri 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Fungal pericarditis, a rare clinical presentation primarily observed in post-cardiothoracic surgery and immunocompromised patients, requires prompt recognition and effective treatment involving antifungal medications and surgical drainage. We report the case of a 40-year-old female initially diagnosed with infective endocarditis who progressed to cardiac tamponade. Timely surgical drainage significantly improved the patient’s clinical status and revealed fungal pericarditis through pathological analysis. This case highlights the importance of considering the diagnosis of fungal pericarditis even in the absence of prior cardiothoracic surgical intervention and emphasizes the crucial role of both intravenous antifungal therapy and surgical drainage in its treatment.
Neuroganglioma in the posterior mediastinum: an incidental discovery
Authors: Tellez-Zarate Maximiliano , Meza-Hernandez Javier , Jimenez-Fuentes Edgardo 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Ganglioneuroma, a rare benign neuroblastic tumor, typically arises in the posterior mediastinum, but it can be found in the anterior mediastinum and thymus. Predominantly affecting the young, these asymptomatic tumors are often discovered incidentally through imaging. In our reported case, a 44-year-old woman post-hysterectomy with persistent jaundice was diagnosed with a neuroganglioma in the right posterior mediastinum via a computed tomography (CT) scan. Thoracotomy and resection revealed a 10-cm neuroganglioma untangled from mediastinal planes. Post-surgery, chylothorax emerged, which was managed through a 5-day fasting approach. Thoracic neurogangliomas, rare and often asymptomatic, demand meticulous diagnosis, emphasizing imaging and histopathology, with postoperative vigilance for complications.
Harnessing EU legal concepts for the energy transition on islands
Authors: Mauger Romain , Diestelmeier Lea , Nieuwenhout Ceciel 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The European Commission plans to achieve the decarbonization of dozens of European Union (EU) islands by 2030. This would reduce greenhouse gas emissions, lower the dependency of islands on imported fuels, and potentially reduce local energy prices. At the same time, it may accelerate the mainland’s own energy transition through the import of surplus energy from renewable sources, the provision of aggregated flexibility services, and the testing of both technologies and policies on islands for replication and adaptation on the continent. Although islands are not even a legal category per se in EU energy law, the existing legal framework already allows to harness various concepts to foster the energy transition of EU islands. This article reviews available legal qualifications and regimes such as small systems’ exemptions, energy communities, positive energy districts, and local flexibility markets in the context of the decarbonization of EU islands. Potentially, they could open many different ways to tailor local energy transitions, channelling local actions to accelerate the whole process.
Galactinol synthase 2 influences the metabolism of chlorophyll, carotenoids, and ethylene in tomato fruits
Authors: Zhang Huidong , Zhang Kunpeng , Zhao Xueya , Bi Mengxi , Liu Yudong , Wang Shuo , He Yi , Ma Kui , Qi Mingfang 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Galactinol synthase (GolS), which catalyses the synthesis of galactinol, is the first critical enzyme in the biosynthesis of raffinose family oligosaccharides (RFOs) and contributes to plant growth and development, and resistance mechanisms. However, its role in fruit development remains largely unknown. In this study, we used CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing technology in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) to create the gols2 mutant showing uniformly green fruits without dark-green shoulders, and promoting fruit ripening. Analysis indicated that galactinol was undetectable in the ovaries and fruits of the mutant, and the accumulation of chlorophyll and chloroplast development was suppressed in the fruits. RNA-sequencing analysis showed that genes related to chlorophyll accumulation and chloroplast development were down-regulated, including PROTOCHLOROPHYLLIDE OXIDOREDUCTASE, GOLDEN 2-LIKE 2, and CHLOROPHYLL A/B-BINDING PROTEINS. In addition, early color transformation and ethylene release was prompted in the gols2 lines by regulation of the expression of genes involved in carotenoid and ethylene metabolism (e.g. PHYTOENE SYNTHASE 1, CAROTENE CIS-TRANS ISOMERASE, and 1-AMINOCYCLOPROPANE-1-CARBOXYLIC ACID SYNTHASE2/4) and fruit ripening (e.g. RIPENING INHIBITOR, NON-RIPENING, and APETALA2a). Our results provide evidence for the involvement of GolS2 in pigment and ethylene metabolism of tomato fruits.
Monosaccharide transporter OsMST6 is activated by transcription factor OsERF120 to enhance chilling tolerance in rice seedlings
Authors: Luo Shengtao , Zheng Shuangshuang , Li Zhitao , Cao Jie , Wang Bo , Xu Yunyuan , Chong Kang 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Chilling stress caused by extreme weather is threatening global rice (Oryza sativa L.) production. Identifying components of the signal transduction pathways underlying chilling tolerance in rice would advance molecular breeding. Here, we report that OsMST6, which encodes a monosaccharide transporter, positively regulates the chilling tolerance of rice seedlings. mst6 mutants showed hypersensitivity to chilling, while OsMST6 overexpression lines were tolerant. During chilling stress, OsMST6 transported more glucose into cells to modulate sugar and abscisic acid signaling pathways. We showed that the transcription factor OsERF120 could bind to the DRE/CRT element of the OsMST6 promoter and activate the expression of OsMST6 to positively regulate chilling tolerance. Genetically, OsERF120 was functionally dependent on OsMST6 when promoting chilling tolerance. In summary, OsERF120 and OsMST6 form a new downstream chilling regulatory pathway in rice in response to chilling stress, providing valuable findings for molecular breeding aimed at achieving global food security.
Fermentation Practices Select for Thermostable Endolysins in Phages
Authors: Oechslin Frank , Zhu Xiaojun , Morency Carlee , Somerville Vincent , Shi Rong , Moineau Sylvain 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Endolysins are produced by (bacterio)phages and play a crucial role in degrading the bacterial cell wall and the subsequent release of new phage progeny. These lytic enzymes exhibit a remarkable diversity, often occurring in a multimodular form that combines different catalytic and cell wall-binding domains, even in phages infecting the same species. Yet, our current understanding lacks insight into how environmental factors and ecological niches may have influenced the evolution of these enzymes. In this study, we focused on phages infecting Streptococcus thermophilus, as this bacterial species has a well-defined and narrow ecological niche, namely, dairy fermentation. Among the endolysins found in phages targeting this species, we observed limited diversity, with a singular structural type dominating in most of identified S. thermophilus phages. Within this prevailing endolysin type, we discovered a novel and highly conserved calcium-binding motif. This motif proved to be crucial for the stability and activity of the enzyme at elevated temperatures. Ultimately, we demonstrated its positive selection within the host's environmental conditions, particularly under the temperature profiles encountered in the production of yogurt, mozzarella, and hard cheeses that rely on S. thermophilus.
Concepts of Existential Catastrophe
Authors: Greaves Hilary 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The notion of existential catastrophe is increasingly appealed to in discussion of risk management around emerging technologies, but it is not completely clear what this notion amounts to. Here, I provide an opinionated survey of the space of plausibly useful definitions of existential catastrophe. Inter alia, I discuss: whether to define existential catastrophe in ex post or ex ante terms, whether an ex ante definition should be in terms of loss of expected value or loss of potential, and what kind of probabilities should be involved in any appeal to expected value.
Saved by the Dark Forest: How a Multitude of Extraterrestrial Civilizations Can Prevent a Hobbesian Trap
Authors: Jebari Karim , Asker Andrea S 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The possibility of extraterrestrial intelligence (ETI) exists despite no observed evidence, and the risks and benefits of actively searching for ETI (Active SETI) have been debated. Active SETI has been criticized for potentially exposing humanity to existential risk, and a recent game-theoretical model highlights the Hobbesian trap that could occur following contact if mutual distrust leads to mutual destruction. We argue that observing a nearby ETI would suggest the existence of many unobserved ETI. This would expand the game and implies that there may be a mechanism that prevents ETI from attacking us. As a result, the Hobbesian trap would be avoided if both parties assumed the other is not likely to attack.
Automation and taxation
Authors: Hötte Kerstin , Theodorakopoulos Angelos , Koutroumpis Pantelis 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Do automation-induced changes in labour and capital income undermine public revenues? Decomposing taxes by source (labour, capital, sales), we analyse the impact of automation on tax revenues and the structure of taxation in nineteen EU countries during 1995–2016. Before 2008 robot diffusion was associated with a decline in total tax revenues and taxes from capital, along with decreasing labour and capital income and output. After 2007, the negative effects diminish. Information and Communication Technologies show a weak negative but persistent effect on total tax revenues and taxes on goods for the full period, and an increase in capital income. Overall, the impact of automation on production and taxation varies over time. Whether automation erodes taxation depends on the technology and stage of diffusion. Concerns about public budgets appear myopic when focusing on the short run and ignoring relevant technological trends.
Urban green infrastructure and pandemic response: how urban parks were used to support the COVID-19 response and the relationship between parkland acreage and excess mortality in large cities in the USA
Authors: Boyce Matthew R 
Published: March 2024

ABSTRACTThe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic was an unprecedented public health emergency, and relatively little research has investigated the relationship between urban green infrastructure, such as parks, and pandemic-related health outcomes. This study describes how urban parks were used to support the pandemic response and examines the associations between urban park acreage and excess mortality in 2020 in the 50 most populous cities in the USA. The descriptive portion of the study revealed that all cities temporarily closed at least some parks during the first year of the pandemic, and most reported collaborations between parks and public health authorities. Further, urban parks were used to support the pandemic response by serving as venues for meal distributions, diagnostic testing, education and childcare, housing shelters, vaccination clinics, personal protective equipment distributions and other services. A series of linear regression models were used to investigate the association between park acreage and excess mortality. Univariable regression revealed a negative, statistically significant relationship between total urban park acreage and excess mortality rates. However, the relationship weakened and was no longer significant when additional demographic and socioeconomic variables were added in multiple linear regressions. In combination, these results may inform efforts to optimize the design of urban parks and strengthen urban resilience against future infectious disease outbreaks, especially if they consider and address aspects such as park accessibility and equity.
‘The bar is different as a woman’: A thematic analysis of career advice given by female police officers
Authors: Padilla Kathleen E , Renfro Kellie , Huff Jessica 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
In an effort to reduce gender disparities in policing and move beyond the current legitimacy crisis faced by the profession, there has been a renewed focus on increasing the recruitment and retention of female police officers. Beyond understanding why current female officers have remained in the field, it is important to understand why some have left the profession altogether. The current study employs deductive and inductive coding of a mixed-methods self-report survey from 154 current and former female officers in the Dallas Police Department (DPD). We sought to examine the advice that current and former female police officers would give to other women who might want to enter or promote within policing. Responses highlighted challenges related to the impact on family life, navigating the male-dominated culture, maintaining one’s sense of identity and integrity, and creating strong social support networks. Implications for the DPD and other agencies are discussed.
Local Fiscal Response to State Preemption: A Case Study of Massachusetts’ Proposition 2½ Tax Referendum
Authors: Wang Shu , Wu Yonghong 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
State preemption in the form of tax and expenditure limits significantly limits local revenue-raising capacity. To gain insights into how local governments respond to fiscal preemption through direct democracy, this study focuses on tax referenda that override the levy limit set by Proposition 2½ in Massachusetts. Analyzing a sample of 320 municipalities from 2010 to 2021, we investigate the influence of fiscal slack resources and tax burden on the levy limit overrides and exclusions. Our analysis breaks down the tax referendum process into two stages, highlighting the involvement of different decision-makers: local officials proposing the referendum and individual voters approving it. We find that municipalities are motivated to seek tax referenda due to diminishing fiscal slack resources, yet the tax burden on residents can discourage such pursuits.
Bio-functional hydroxyapatite-coated 3D porous polyetherketoneketone scaffold for enhanced osteogenesis and osteointegration in orthopedic applications
Authors: Liu Huanhuan , Liu Taiqing , Yin Zhicheng , Liu Xiaoyin , Tan Ying , Zhao Yuwei , Yu Haiyang 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Polyetherketoneketone (PEKK), a high-performance thermoplastic special engineering material, maintains bone-like mechanical properties and has received considerable attention in the biomedical field. The 3D printing technique enables the production of porous scaffolds with a honeycomb structure featuring precisely controlled pore size, porosity and interconnectivity, which holds significant potential for applications in tissue engineering. The ideal pore architecture of porous PEKK scaffolds has yet to be elucidated. Porous PEKK scaffolds with five pore sizes P200 (225 ± 9.8 μm), P400 (411 ± 22.1 μm), P600 (596 ± 23.4 μm), P800 (786 ± 24.2 μm) and P1000 (993 ± 26.0 μm) were produced by a 3D printer. Subsequently, the optimum pore size, the P600, for mechanical properties and osteogenesis was selected based on in vitro experiments. To improve the interfacial bioactivity of porous PEKK scaffolds, hydroxyapatite (HAp) crystals were generated via in situ biomimetic mineralization induced by the phase-transited lysozyme coating. Herein, a micro/nanostructured surface showing HAp crystals on PEKK scaffold was developed. In vitro and in vivo experiments confirmed that the porous PEKK-HAp scaffolds exhibited highly interconnected pores and functional surface structures that were favorable for biocompatibility and osteoinductivity, which boosted bone regeneration. Therefore, this work not only demonstrates that the pore structure of the P600 scaffold is suitable for PEKK orthopedic implants but also sheds light on a synergistic approach involving 3D printing and biomimetic mineralization, which has the potential to yield customized 3D PEKK-HAp scaffolds with enhanced osteoinductivity and osteogenesis, offering a promising strategy for bone tissue engineering.
Do Factory Jobs Improve Welfare? Experimental Evidence from Ethiopia
Authors: Abebe Girum , Buehren Niklas , Goldstein Markus 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
This study explores the impact of a light-touch job-facilitation intervention that supported young female job seekers during the application process for factory work in a newly constructed industrial park in Ethiopia. Using data from a panel of 687 job seekers and randomized access to the support intervention, the study finds that treated applicants are more likely to be employed and have higher earnings and savings eight months after baseline, although these impacts are short-lived. Four years later, the effects on employment and income largely dissipated. The results suggest that young women face significant barriers to engaging in factory work in the short run that a simple job-facilitation intervention can help overcome. In the long term, however, these jobs do not offer a better alternative than other income-generating opportunities.