bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A workpiece grasp detection method based on 3D object detection
Authors: Li Huijun , Duan Longbo , Wang Qirun , Zhang Yilun , Ye Bin 
Published: January 2025

Purpose
The application of industrial robots in modern production is becoming increasingly widespread. In the context of flexible production lines, quickly and accurately identifying and grasping specified workpieces is particularly important. This study aims to propose a grasping scheme that combines traditional methods with deep learning to improve grasping accuracy and efficiency.

Design/methodology/approach
First, a dataset generation method is proposed, which constructs a point cloud dataset close to the real scene without the need for extensive data collection. Then, the 3D object detection algorithm PointPillars is improved based on the features of the scene point cloud, allowing for the analysis of part poses to achieve grasping. Finally, a grasp detection strategy is proposed to match the optimal grasp pose.

Findings
Experimental results show that the proposed method can quickly and easily construct high-quality datasets, significantly reducing the time required for preliminary preparation. Additionally, it can effectively grasp specified workpieces, significantly improving grasping accuracy and reducing computation time.

Originality/value
The main contribution of this paper is the integration of a novel dataset generation method, improvements to the PointPillars algorithm for 3D object detection and the development of an optimal grasp detection strategy. These advancements enable the grasping system to handle real-world scenarios efficiently and accurately, demonstrating significant improvements over traditional methods.
Sustainability committees’ influence on ESG controversies and sustainability assurance: a comparative study in polluting and non-polluting firms
Authors: Issa Ayman 
Published: January 2025

Purpose
This study aims to examine the correlation between sustainability controversies and external sustainability audits, placing specific emphasis on evaluating how the presence of sustainability/CSR committees moderates this connection in firms with both high and low emissions.

Design/methodology/approach
Using a thorough quantitative approach, this study analyses a data set comprising 1,726 firm-observations from Europe, covering the years 2006–2021. The primary econometric model used is ordinary least squares, complemented by robustness tests including random effects regressions, a two-step generalized method of moments approach, sub-analysis and Propensity Score Matching.

Findings
This study reveals a significant role for sustainability external audits in alleviating ESG controversies, particularly within less-polluting firms. Also, it uncovers that the existence of a sustainability/CSR committee significantly moderates the relationship between ESG controversies and external sustainability assurance.

Practical implications
This study has crucial implications for organizations seeking to improve sustainability practices and build stakeholder trust. Insights into the relationship between ESG controversies, sustainability audits and the role of sustainability/CSR committees provide practical guidance for enhancing sustainability performance. This information is valuable for managers, regulators and stakeholders in shaping decisions and policies for a more sustainable corporate landscape.

Originality/value
This study provides fresh insights into how companies manage environmental challenges and enhance their reputation through external assurance. The integration of institutional theory enriches the theoretical framework, revealing external influences on companies’ decisions. This study’s focus on sustainability/CSR committee contributes to understanding organizational responses to environmental challenges, advancing knowledge in sustainability and corporate governance.
The nexus between digital economy and tourism eco-efficiency under the environmental regulation: evidence from 277 cities in China
Authors: Wang Juan , Wei Rongjie , Zhang Huan 
Published: January 2025

PurposeThis study is of great significance in revealing the interactive and coordinated relationship between tourism development and the ecological environment, improving the level of environmental governance in the process of tourism economic development and realising the dual-carbon goal and sustainable development of the tourism industry.Design/methodology/approachThis paper performs slack-based measure (SBM)-data envelopment analysis (DEA) analysis, benchmark regression and threshold effect measurement on a sample of 277 cities in China from 2011 to 2019, to estimate the impact of the digital economy on tourism eco-efficiency and to identify the moderating role of environmental regulation.FindingsChina’s tourism eco-efficiency shows a spatio-temporal characteristic of steady growth amid fluctuations. The digital economy has a positive facilitating effect on tourism eco-efficiency, which is non-linear with a single threshold effect (0.631), and when the level of the digital economy exceeds the threshold value, its facilitating effect increases from 0.696 to 0.927. Environmental regulation does not play the role of “the icing on the cake” during the digital economy’s impact on tourism eco-efficiency.Originality/valueThis study for the first time includes the digital economy, eco-efficiency and environmental regulation in the research perspective, and analysed the mechanism of action between the three, expanding the depth of research on the digital economy and environmental regulation in the field of tourism. Meanwhile, based on the development needs of policy specialisation and industrial refinement, this study has strong practical significance when conducted at the city level.
Inverse Relationship Between Serum Carotenoid Levels and Cardiovascular‐Kidney‐Metabolic Syndrome Among the General Adult Population
Authors: Chen Mengli , Cai Shuyue , Jia Qinfeng , Suo Yifang , Tang Yuan , Shi Yanping , Zhu Xu , Zhang Haifeng 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTObjectiveTo examine the relationship between serum carotenoid levels and cardiovascular‐kidney‐metabolic (CKM) syndrome in a representative sample of US adults.MethodsData from the fasting subsample of the NHANES 2017–2018 were analyzed using a survey‐weighted approach to ensure the findings are representative of the broader US adult population. Serum levels of α‐carotene, β‐carotene, β‐cryptoxanthin, lutein/zeaxanthin, and lycopene were measured using high‐performance liquid chromatography. CKM syndrome stages were defined according to the 2023 American Heart Association guidelines, with advanced CKM syndrome categorized as stages 3 or 4. Associations between serum carotenoids and advanced CKM syndrome were assessed using logistic regression and weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression.ResultsThe study included 1671 adults aged 20 years and older, with a mean age of 48.7 years and a gender distribution of 50.9% female and 49.1% male. Higher serum levels of α‐carotene, β‐carotene, α‐cryptoxanthin, lutein/zeaxanthin, and lycopene were inversely associated with advanced CKM syndrome. Specifically, compared to the lowest quartile, the highest quartile of α‐carotene had an odds ratio (OR) of 0.29 (95% CI: 0.16–0.55), β‐carotene 0.35 (95% CI: 0.16–0.78), α‐cryptoxanthin 0.23 (95% CI: 0.11–0.49), lutein/zeaxanthin 0.26 (95% CI: 0.14–0.48), and lycopene 0.58 (95% CI: 0.35–0.98). However, β‐cryptoxanthin did not show a significant association. Moreover, the combined effect of all carotenoids was significantly negatively correlated with advanced CKM syndrome (OR = 0.67, 95% CI: 0.53–0.86), with lutein/zeaxanthin contributing the most (44.56%).ConclusionsElevated serum carotenoid levels are inversely associated with the prevalence of advanced CKM syndrome in a dose‐dependent manner, with this association remaining consistent across diverse demographic and health subgroups.
High‐magnification platform for characterising microscopic communities
Authors: du Preez Gerhard 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Characterising microscopic communities is important for both ecological research and diagnostic applications. In these areas, light microscopy is still a fundamental tool due to its accessibility and real‐time imaging capabilities. However, the higher magnifications required for accurate identifications typically necessitates extensive sample preparation. Therefore, this study aimed to design and validate a bright field light microscopy‐based platform with magnification up to 1000× without the need for extensive sample preparation.

An adapted version of the Peter's slide was developed, which allows the use of specialised long‐working distance objectives without the need for oil immersion. Image quality at higher magnifications was evaluated using nematodes as test organisms. Additionally, the use of the adapted Peter's slide in characterising microscopic communities was evaluated by studying the temporal dynamics in nematode functional diversity from Johnson Su compost.

The adapted Peter's slide facilitated the identification and counting of nematodes to genus level, demonstrating sufficient image clarity even at 1000× magnification. My results confirmed that this platform overcomes the limitations of standard approaches by eliminating the need for extensive sample preparation and mounting on microscope slides, which are typically required for high‐magnification observations.

This platform reduces sample processing time, while also facilitating live viewing under high magnification. These features also make it a valuable educational tool in classroom settings. Future enhancements could include the integration of AI‐based imaging software to automate and refine identification and counting processes. However, a current limitation is the cost of the long‐working objectives, which may prevent widespread adoption.
Wild Meat Value Chain Integration Systems: Opportunities for Value Chain Formalisation and Scaling in Africa
Authors: Ndlovu Wiseman , Karonga Sungeni , Vorhies Francis 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTEstablishing legal, safe and sustainable wild meat sector promises to potentially reduce demand for illegally sourced meat, support livehoods, and contribute to conservation goals. However, institutional mechanisms and systems to champion sustainable wild meat value chains are underdeveloped, making it a challenge for the sector to formalise and scale. This study investigated how value chain systems are/can be organised and integrated. Also, transitional pathways to value chain formalisation and scaling were evaluated. Literature data (n = 96) on plains game wild meat value chains in Africa from 2000 to 2023 was subjected to thematic analysis to identify patterns and linkages in the value chain systems. The results show that while rural and poor communities are the largest recipients of illegal wild meat, they are structurally excluded from the legal game meat value chains. Illegal and legal wild meat value chain systems show three levels of integration: fully, partially and independently integrated systems. Each system presents a unique opportunity for scaling up enterprises and developing institutional governance to deliver well‐managed wild meat value chains embedded with system‐specific sustainable harvesting and use practices.
Distinct Functioning of Low‐ Versus High‐Altitude Refugia in the Mediterranean: Inferences From Life‐History Traits of Two Related Relict Trees From the Islands of Sicily and Crete
Authors: Garfì Giuseppe , Fazan Laurence , Gristina Alessandro Silvestre , Pasta Salvatore , Motisi Antonio , Ghosn Dany , Remoundou Ilektra , Kozlowski Gregor 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTAimRelict trees are the outcome of long‐term ‘natural experiments’. Accordingly, they provide opportunities to study the effects of local adaptation of trees, which are still poorly understood but crucial in the context of climate change. In turn, the physical settings of refugia at macro‐ and microscale are the key drivers of the environmental adaptability of such species. Using two congeneric climate relict trees (Zelkova sicula and Z. abelicea) as model species, we analysed the functional relationships between tree growth patterns and the distinctive environmental drivers of low‐ versus high‐altitude refugia in the Mediterranean.LocationMediterranean islands of Sicily (Italy) and Crete (Greece).MethodsTo evaluate the growth potential of the two relict trees we used top height and multi‐year data of shoot length over the entire distribution range of both species. Growth form and height growth dynamics of Z. sicula were also investigated by stem analysis. Moreover, tree‐ring response to climate was compared through classical dendrochronological approaches.ResultsTree size, as well as shoot and radial growth are notably greater in Z. abelicea, suggesting this species better fits in its habitat and the higher‐elevation Cretan refugia are less constraining than their low‐elevation Sicilian counterparts. Tree‐ring growth response to precipitation and evapotranspiration is rather similar between the two species and points to the key role of moisture balance on growth. However, the 1‐month delay in the response from the Sicilian to the Cretan relict mirrors the differential role of altitude against micro‐topography in decoupling from the regional climate.Main ConclusionsThe significant attenuation of environmental constraints due to the ‘elevation effect’ is a major offsetting driver for the distinct functioning of low‐ versus high‐altitude refugia in the Mediterranean, but macroclimatic patterns may locally blur the effectiveness of refugia in a long‐term conservation perspective.
Influence of Laser‐Assisted Cutting on the Surface Integrity and Fatigue Life of FeCoCrNiAl0.6 High‐Entropy Alloy
Authors: Zhang Ping , Lin Zhenyong , Zhang Tengfei , Lan Changyin , Jiang Xiaomin 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTThis study explores the application of laser‐assisted cutting (LAC) in FeCoCrNiAl0.6 high‐entropy alloys to address traditional machining challenges and poor surface quality. It systematically analyzes the effects of laser power, scan speed, and spot diameter on surface integrity and fatigue life. Using Abaqus/FE‐SAFE simulations and LAC experiments, differences in surface quality and fatigue cycles under various laser parameters are observed. Results show that increasing the spot radius reduces heat accumulation and center temperature. A 1 mm radius yields a center temperature 5.58 times higher than a 7 mm radius and achieves a residual compressive stress of 412 MPa, which decreases to 198 MPa (51.9% reduction) at 7 mm. Larger laser power increases stress and fatigue life positively, while higher scan speeds reduce stress. Fatigue cycles drop by 82.9% as the spot radius increases from 1 to 7 mm, while 25 W power extends fatigue life 4.26 times compared to 10 W.
Gendering Diplomatic Careers. Distance and Time in International Assignment Practices Among 600 French Diplomats
Authors: Lecler Romain , Goltrant Yann 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTOver the past few decades, diplomatic organizations have recruited increasing numbers of women as career diplomats. However, research in the fields of both expatriation and diplomacy emphasizes that transnational careers have been historically monopolized by men, that most “trailing spouses” are still women, and that men's transnational careers still take precedence in dual‐career couples. Our study uses the “gender turn” in diplomatic studies to better understand how gender disparities continue to structure diplomatic careers, even as more women take on primary roles in expatriation. We focus on international assignment practices that we redefine as “gendered diplomatic practices”. We present an original random sample of 300 male and 300 female French diplomats employed in 2015. We show that men cover 1.5 times more distance than women throughout their careers, and that they travel 1.3 times further for each international assignment. We also show that men spend 14 years abroad on average, 3 years more than women. In addition, women spend 1 year longer in each assignment to avoid frequent relocation. These gendered disparities hold for diplomats who access managerial positions. They underscore the necessity for ongoing research and efforts to address sex disparities in transnational careers and measure the gendering of diplomatic practices.
Subareolar sclerosing ductal hyperplasia shows PI3K pathway alterations
Authors: Boyraz Baris , Robinson Brian , Lindeman Neal , Hoda Syed A , Solomon James P 
Published: January 2025

AimsSubareolar sclerosing ductal hyperplasia (SSDH) is a distinct type of complex sclerosing hyperplastic lesion first described by Rosen in 1987. There have been rare studies investigating SSDH; however, no genetic study has been performed to date.Methods and resultsSeven SSDH cases, diagnosed between 2013 and 2024, were identified. All were subjected to next‐generation sequencing (523 genes). Patient ages ranged from 40 to 74 years (median = 46). All lesions were located in the subareolar region. Each showed the characteristic appearance of the lesion, as described in the seminal study, with usual ductal hyperplasia in a densely sclerotic background imparting an ‘infiltrative’ appearance. None of the cases showed atypical hyperplasia or carcinoma. DNA sequencing identified PI3K pathway alterations in all seven cases: PIK3CA (n = three, one with two alterations), PIK3R1 (n = three) and PIK3C3 (n = one, with concurrent FAT1 mutation).ConclusionSSDH shows PI3K pathway alterations similar to those seen in other non‐atypical and atypical proliferative lesions as well as benign and malignant neoplasms of the breast. This finding may explain the rare association of SSDH with atypical hyperplasia, in‐situ and invasive carcinoma.
From South Asia to the United Arab Emirates with hope: The subjective well‐being of blue‐collar migrant workers revisited
Authors: Yang Guang , Badri Masood Abdulla , Yaaqeib Saad Ibrahim , AlRashdi Asma Salem , AlMheiri Mouza Awadh 
Published: January 2025

AbstractThis study examines the relationships between a comprehensive set of variables and subjective well‐being among a representative sample of 2554 male blue‐collar migrant workers in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The results of multilevel modelling show that mental health, sense of safety and security, job satisfaction, housing and living environment, and institutional trust are among the key predictors of the subjective well‐being of blue‐collar migrant workers. Contradictory to the adverse effects of income inequality on well‐being and the shift of frames of reference, evidence indicates that blue‐collar migrant workers in Abu Dhabi engage in limited social comparison and that the structures of work and daily life matter strongly for this group of workers of low socioeconomic status.
Gestational Age at Delivery Is an Independent Predictor of Neonatal Outcome for Maternal HELLP Syndrome
Authors: Shi Yan , Yang Xiaoli , Wang Chengqin , Zhuoga Luosong , Xu Dongmei 
Published: January 2025

AbstractHemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, low platelet count (HELLP) syndrome is a severe complication of preeclampsia (PE), with a higher incidence rate in people living at high altitudes, such as Tibet area. Maternal HELLP syndrome is associated with an elevated neonatal mortality rate. The purpose of this study was to investigate the predicting factors for neonatal outcomes with maternal HELLP syndrome. We collected 49 PE with HELLP cases and stratified them into the Survival Group (n = 28) and Death Group (n = 21) based on the neonatal outcomes. We compared the basic characteristics and laboratory indicators using the Student's t‐test or the Mann–Whitney U test, followed by univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis to detect the independent predicting factors for neonatal outcomes. Subsequently, we performed the receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis to predict the prognostic power of the variables with a cutoff value. The results indicated that levels of neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR), serum creatinine (Scr), lactic dehydrogenase (LDH), and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) were significantly elevated, while gestational age (GA) at delivery and alkaline phosphatase (AP) level was significantly decreased in the Death Group. The multivariate regression analysis indicated that only GA at delivery was able to predict the neonatal outcome. The cutoff value was 32.6 weeks on the ROC curve, with both 85.7% sensitivity and 85.7% specificity (AUC: 0.927, 95% CI: 0.856–0.998, p < 0.001). Thus, it was concluded that GA at delivery less than 32.6 weeks was an independent predictor of neonatal death for maternal HELLP syndrome.
Prognostic factors and long‐term outcome in dogs diagnosed with primary and secondary immune thrombocytopenia in Ireland
Authors: López‐Bailén E. , Duclos A. , Mullany D. , Le Boedec K. , Cuq B. 
Published: January 2025

ObjectivesThe objectives of this study were to describe the outcome and prognostic factors in dogs diagnosed with primary and secondary immune thrombocytopenia (ITP).Materials and MethodsMedical records of dogs diagnosed with primary and secondary ITP in a referral hospital in Ireland were retrospectively evaluated. Short‐ and long‐term survivals were analysed using Cox proportional‐hazards regression models.ResultsMedical records from 49 dogs were included. Primary and secondary ITP were diagnosed in 81.25% and 18.75% of dogs, respectively. The survival rate was 69% at 2 weeks (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.54 to 0.80), 63% at 3 months (95% CI: 0.48 to 0.75) and 51% at 2 years (95% CI: 0.37 to 0.65). The overall median survival time was 985 days (primary ITP only: 1084 days; secondary ITP only: 225 days). Dogs surviving 30 days post‐diagnosis had a median long‐term survival time of 10 years. A lower haematocrit was negatively associated with survival [hazard ratio (HR) 0.96, 95% CI: 0.92 to 0.99]. Neutrophilia (HR: 0.44, 95% CI: 0.20 to 0.96) was associated with a 66% decreased risk of death. Band neutrophilia was associated with shorter hospitalisation (regression coefficient −3.56, 95% CI: −5.70 to ‐1.42). Presence of petechiae and ecchymoses (regression coefficient 2.41, 95% CI: 0.41 to 4.42), and the use of a second‐line immunosuppressive agent (SLI) (regression coefficient 2.11, 95% CI: 0.11 to 4.12) were significantly associated with longer hospitalisation but not with survival.Clinical SignificanceA lower haematocrit was the only variable associated with a worse prognosis in dogs diagnosed with ITP. Dogs with confirmed secondary ITP had an overall shorter median survival time. Dogs surviving over 30 days had an excellent prognosis.