bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Δημόσιοι εκπαιδευτικοί και παράλληλη παιδεία στην ελληνική μεταναστευτική κοινωνία
Authors: Μανάφη Αγγελική-Μαγδαληνή
Published: January 2025

Η παρούσα διατριβή επικεντρώνεται στην εμπλοκή των δημόσιων εκπαιδευτικών στην παράλληλη παιδεία , ένα φαινόμενο που έχει λάβει τεράστιες διαστάσεις στη χώρα μας και δημιουργεί προϋποθέσεις ανισοτήτων στις ευκαιρίες εκπαίδευσης. Η παράλληλη παιδεία καλύπτει τις ανεπάρκειες της δημόσιας εκπαίδευσης, ενώ ταυτόχρονα αποτελεί οικονομική δραστηριότητα με πολλαπλές παραμέτρους και επιπτώσεις σε κοινωνικό και οικονομικό επίπεδο. Οι δημόσιοι εκπαιδευτικοί είναι σημαντικοί παράγοντες σε αυτό το φαινόμενο και αποτελούν τον υπό έρευνα πληθυσμό αυτής της εργασίας. Τα ερευνητικά ερωτήματα της εργασίας είναι τα εξής: 1. Πώς νοηματοδοτούν οι δημόσιοι εκπαιδευτικοί την επιλογή της άσκησης παράλληλης παιδείας σε συνδυασμό με τη θέση τους και το έργο τους στο δημόσιο σχολείο; 2. Ποιες υποκειμενικές θεωρίες εκφράζουν οι εκπαιδευτικοί σχετικά με τη σχολική εκπαίδευση στη μεταναστευτική κοινωνία; 3. Πώς τοποθετούνται οι εκπαιδευτικοί απέναντι στις ανθρωπιστικές αξίες σε σχέση με το μεταναστευτικό / προσφυγικό ζήτημα; Η συλλογή των εμπειρικών δεδομένων πραγματοποιήθηκε με τον διαμοιρασμό ηλεκτρονικού ερωτηματολογίου και η ανάλυση του εμπειρικού υλικού που συλλέχθηκε (Ν=465) έγινε με την εφαρμογή της Ανάλυσης Λανθανουσών Κλάσεων (Latent Class Analysis). H συγκεκριμένη στατιστική μέθοδος επιτρέπει την ποσοτικοποίηση ποιοτικών δεδομένων, με στόχο την ανάδειξη των διαφορετικών προφίλ των συμμετεχόντων με βάση τις ομοιότητες των απαντήσεών τους. Η ανάλυση ανέδειξε τελικά τέσσερα διαφορετικά προφίλ δημόσιων εκπαιδευτικών αναφορικά με την άμεση ή έμμεση εμπλοκή τους ή μη στην παράλληλη παιδεία («Οι αποστασιοποιημένοι», «Οι ανεκτικοί», «Οι αποπολιτικοποιημένοι» και «Οι πολιτικοποιημένοι»). Μέσα από τη συγκριτική μελέτη των τεσσάρων προφίλ, η έρευνα κατέληξε στο βασικό συμπέρασμα ότι το αίσθημα έλλειψης επαγγελματικής αναγνώρισης και το αίσθημα εργασιακής ματαίωσης αποτελούν παράγοντες που οδηγούν τα άτομα σε εξατομικευμένες, ανομικές λύσεις στα αδιέξοδά τους, ενώ αντιδρούν συνειδητά ή ασυνείδητα, στην υποβάθμισή τους αγνοώντας τις δομικές κοινωνικές ανισότητες. Η παρούσα διατριβή αποκαλύπτει ότι οι ανομικές επιλογές ή ακόμη και η τροφοδότηση του φαινομένου της παράλληλης παιδείας από την πλειοψηφία των εκπαιδευτικών συνεμφανίζονται με την τάση τους να διαχωρίζουν τους μαθητές και γενικά τους ανθρώπους με διαφορετικό πολιτισμικό υπόβαθρο. Αυτό ερμηνεύεται ως αδυναμία των εν λόγω υποκειμένων να κρατούν έμπρακτα μία πιο αλληλέγγυα στάση, που τους εμποδίζει να αντιληφθούν ότι η επίτευξη διαπολιτισμικής επικοινωνίας μπορεί να οδηγήσει σε μία πιο δίκαιη κοινωνία.
Antimicrobial Stewardship in Ireland (2010-2021): a scoping review protocol
Authors: Barry Fiona , Smiddy Maura P , Fitzgerald Anthony P , O’Reilly Eilis J. , Murphy Olive
Published: January 2025

Background Antimicrobial stewardship programmes (ASP) are essential in promoting responsible antimicrobial use, reducing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and health care-associated infections. In 2009 the Strategy for the Control of Antimicrobial Resistance in Ireland (SARI), Hospital Antimicrobial Stewardship Working Group published guidance on antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) in hospitals. This paper presents a protocol for a scoping review which aims to examine the current literature to evaluate progress related to the implementation of the SARI (2009) guidance on antimicrobial stewardship in hospitals in Ireland. Methods This scoping review will be conducted in line with the five-stage methodological framework by Arksey & O’Mally 2005. We will search the following databases (PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, Web of Science) and targeted websites for articles and reports for possible inclusion in our review. Studies pertaining to AMS undertaken or related to the Republic of Ireland from January 2010 until December 2021 will be included. We will include all study designs. We will map all selected publications to the recommendations of the SARI (2009) guidance document. The protocol follows the guidance of Peters et al., 2022. Two reviewers will independently screen studies and reports to assess eligibility with any discrepancies resolved by consensus discussion with a third reviewer. Results These will be reported in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR)and this checklist will be included when the scoping review is published. Conclusion This scoping review will map studies and reports to evaluate AMS in relation to national guidelines without restriction on study design or outcomes in the Republic of Ireland. This information has the potential to provide a valuable resource for the implementation of future AMS research and interventions.
A DIGITAL SOLUTION FOR DEFINING A REFERENCE ENTERPRISE BASED ON KEY INDICATORS
Authors: Arshba L. , Spicyna I. , Makarova E.
Published: January 2025

This article presents an approach to the assessment and management of the stable operation system of the structural unit of the Russian Railways energy complex using the etalon method to determine the state of stability. The possibility of calculations based on a relational database and a developed prototype of an information and management system allowing to develop management decisions is shown.
ISSUES OF TECHNOLOGICAL SOVEREIGNTY IN THE CONTEXT OF THE UPDATED TRANSPORT STRATEGY OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION
Authors: Rozhkov R. , Demidov A.
Published: January 2025

The article substantiates the need to update the transport strategy and related issues of technological sovereignty. The changes in the work of the transport industry that occurred against the background of the current geopolitical situation are described. The external and internal constraints affecting the performance of the transport industry have been identified. The key components of technological sovereignty in the transport industry have been identified. It is concluded that the formation of the technological base for the development of the transport complex is the core of the sustainable development of the transport industry. A list of measures is presented to achieve the targets of the updated transport strategy and address issues of technological sovereignty.
APPLICATION OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN THE ACTIVITIES OF BANKS
Authors: Yusupova O. , Vinichenko V.
Published: January 2025

During the economic crisis, competition intensifies in the banking market. It is due to the fact that a decrease in the level of income of the population leads to a decrease in the quality of borrowers, both potential and existing. Banks are not interested in deteriorating the quality categories of loans in their loan portfolio and are forced to refuse borrowers with a high level of maximum debt load. To improve the decision-making process on credit products and the processes of monitoring the quality of existing loans, artificial intelligence technologies have been widely used.
KEY APPROACHES IN THE PHASED IMPLEMENTATION OF THE EXCHANGE OF LEGALLY SIGNIFICANT DATA IN ELECTRONIC FORM IN TRANSPORT AND LOGISTICS
Authors: Boreyko A. , Bubnova G.
Published: January 2025

The article discusses the issues of digitalization of international transport corridors and the organization of information exchange of legally significant data in electronic form. Approaches to the implementation of transport and logistics digitalization projects are proposed to ensure the interoperability of the implemented digital platforms. A step-by-step plan for the adaptation and implementation of international standards for information exchange is proposed.
PLATFORMS FOR PROCESSING STREAMING DATA AND THEIR APPLICATION IN JSC «RUSSIAN RAILWAYS»
Authors: Zhukova M.
Published: January 2025

The article examines the key aspects of big data processing platforms, highlighting their importance in the modern world of business and research. Discusses key technologies and tools such as Hadoop, Apache Spark, Apache Kafka, as well as machine learning methods and analysis algorithms that allow extracting valuable information from huge volumes of data. Particular attention is paid to the application of Big Data in various industries, including marketing, trend forecasting and price optimization. Issues and challenges associated with big data processing are also addressed, including financial costs, data quality, security, and data integration. Finally, the prospects for the development of data processing technologies are discussed, including improving algorithms, expanding application areas and increasing the role of artificial intelligence.
ASSESSING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF RPA BASED ON CHANGES IN EMPLOYEE PRODUCTIVITY IN TRANSPORT COMPANIES
Authors: Egorov S.
Published: January 2025

The article discusses the implementation of Robotic Process Automation (RPA) in the business processes of a transport company. A methodology for calculating the effectiveness of RPA is presented, which demonstrates the degree of employee release and their use in new conditions, taking into account the Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) indicator. Emphasis is placed on the importance of planning for the redeployment of labor resources and the minimum number of additional processes to maintain full employment of employees, which is a key part of change management.
DEVELOPMENT OF A METHODOLOGICAL APPROACH TO DETERMINING THE COST OF SOFTWARE SUPPORT WORK
Authors: Efimova O. , Baboshin E.
Published: January 2025

The article presents steps to optimize the company's costs. Based on the analysis of regulatory and methodological documents and the content of work on requests for support of AS (PS), typical reasons for work on setting up and modifying software products are identified. The stages of applying the iterative clustering order according to the " Mean +/-SD" method are determined.
THE USE OF IOT TECHNOLOGIES IN TRANSPORT INFRASTRUCTURE FACILITIES
Authors: Shacionok P. , Blagodar' V. , Sinel'nikova E.
Published: January 2025

The article discusses the modernization of the demarcation system at an enterprise providing rolling stock repair services as a factor in reducing the cost of insurance payments. Effective ways to improve the traditional demarcation with a more modern one are presented, which will reduce additional costs and affect the development and reputation of the company as a whole.
A METHODOLOGICAL APPROACH TO ASSESSING THE LEVEL OF INFORMATION COMPETENCE FORMATION AT A TRANSPORT UNIVERSITY
Authors: Sol'skaya Irina
Published: January 2025

The insufficiency of theoretical and practical developments in the field of using the mechanism for assessing the quality of educational activities and the market potential of specific educational services against the background of an increasing practical need for such developments, as well as the emergence of new, insufficiently known, but promising methodological approaches to evaluating the effectiveness of its application have identified the problem of forming adequate methodological tools. The issues of developing theoretical approaches to solving these problems and implementing some practical recommendations in the field of improving basic educational management tools are considered in this article.
NEW OPPORTUNITIES FOR EVALUATING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF MANAGERIAL WORK IN THE ERA OF DIGITALIZATION
Authors: Frolovichev A.
Published: January 2025

The article analyzes the problems of evaluating the effectiveness of managerial work, focuses on new opportunities, taking into account the development of digital tools and the accumulation of large amounts of data. A new approach is proposed to assess the total reduced product of the company, the cost of labor and payroll, taking into account the distribution of business roles within the described business processes.
ABOUT DIGITAL FINANCIAL ASSETS IN THE MODERN FINANCIAL SYSTEM
Authors: Yusupova O.
Published: January 2025

The article examines the role of digital financial assets (DFAs) in the modern financial system, proposes a classification of DFAs based on their content, and outlines their advantages. The author draws attention to the fact that the successful implementation of digital financial services in business and payment transactions is impossible without taking into account the risks accompanying their use and preventing threats.
THE USE OF GEO-EXTENSIONS OF DATABASES IN THE OPERATIONAL WORK OF AN INFRASTRUCTURE COMPLEX
Authors: Petrenko S.
Published: January 2025

In today's world, where technology is developing at an incredible rate, railways remain one of the most sought-after modes of transport. To effectively manage and optimize the operation of railway systems, it is necessary to use modern tools and technologies. One of these tools is the georeferencing of databases.
AI-POWERED BUSINESS PROCESS AUTOMATION (BPA) SOLUTIONS DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Rossomahin V.
Published: January 2025

The article discusses the development of AI solutions as a tool for increasing the efficiency and competitiveness of a company, covers in detail the role of AI in business process automation, reveals the capabilities of artificial intelligence for various aspects of business and analyzes the factors affecting the successful implementation of AI projects.
The author emphasizes that the development of AI solutions requires an integrated approach that covers: a clear definition of business goals and automation objectives; the selection of suitable AI technologies taking into account the specifics of the tasks and industry; the development and implementation of AI solutions with the participation of a team of AI specialists, business analysts and business process specialists; continuous assessment of the effectiveness of AI solutions, collecting feedback and making the necessary changes.
BIG DATA. RATIONING OF LABOR BASED ON TIME SERIES
Authors: Sendeev O.
Published: January 2025

Big Data – huge amounts of data that are not processed by traditional methods, their importance for decision-making. Time series databases are specialized databases for storing temporary data used in various fields. The features and advantages of such databases are described. Examples of popular time series database management systems are given.
ANALYSIS OF OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY PROCESSES AT PJSC «TRANSCONTAINER» USING BPMN
Authors: Shamanin M.
Published: January 2025

The article examines the current container transportation processes of PJSC «Trans Container». Key issues affecting operational efficiency are identified, including low route flexibility and insufficient automation. Recommendations for process improvements are proposed. The application of BPMN helps to visualize and structure the changes.
Propiedades psicométricas del Sistema de Evaluación de la Conducta (BASC-S3) en adolescentes colombianos
Authors: Moreno-Méndez Jaime Humberto , Avendaño-Prieto Bertha Lucía , Rey-Anacona César Armando , Redondo-Pacheco Jesús
Published: January 2025

Los problemas emocionales y del comportamiento en adolescentes colombianos son frecuentemente atendidos en el ámbito clínico; por tal motivo, se requiere un instrumento con propiedades psicométricas adecuadas que permita la evaluación de dichas dificultades de adaptación para esta población. El objetivo fue analizar la fiabilidad y validez del Sistema de Evaluación de la Conducta de Niños y Adolescentes - versión de autoinforme (BASC-S3) en adolescentes colombianos. El estudio fue de tipo instrumental. Los participantes fueron 1667 adolescentes entre 13 y 19 años (M = 16.13; DE = 1.62) de cuatro regiones de Colombia (Casanare, Boyacá, Santander y Bogotá). El BASC-S3 mide las dimensiones de desajuste escolar, desajuste clínico, ajuste personal e índice de síntomas emocionales. Los coeficientes de fiabilidad obtenidos fueron aceptables. El análisis factorial confirmatorio arrojó un modelo con excelente ajuste (χ2 = 94.34; df = 45; χ2/ df = 4.71; GFI = .99; CFI = .99; TLI = .98; RMSEA = .04; AIC = 164.34), compuesto por tres dimensiones, lo cual significa que el instrumento permite evaluar de manera válida y confiable el desajuste clínico y escolar, así como el índice de síntomas emocionales en adolescentes colombianos. Finalmente, se presentan los baremos adaptados para esta población.
Determination of the Flow Angle in Hydraulic Components
Authors: Günther Lennard , Osterland Sven , Weber Jürgen
Published: January 2025

The paper presents a general analytical equation for the determination of the flow angel in hydraulic components like valves and pumps. Exemplary, the method is applied to two different valve concepts – a cartridge valve and a rotary slide valve.cos(εavg)=1/2(cos(αl)−cos(αr))
The huge advantage of this equation is the simple expression with no dependencies on operation conditions. Only the geometry is important. The underlying phenomenon is valid for turbulent flows. Thus it is useable for almost all hydraulic applications. It makes it possible to predict the flow force as well as to optimize the flow geometry. It describes the flow angle of the free jet behind a narrow section (e.g. a control edge of a valve). By a suitable choice of the angle of the free jet, the flow force can be reduced by changing the direction of the outgoing impulse. With regard to cavitation, the impact of the free jet can be shifted and thus the cavitation erosion can be shifted or weakened.
This paper deals with the investigation of the flow angle of free jets as well as the prediction of the flow force in valves without CFD. For the illustration a cartridge and a rotary slide valve are used as technical applications. In the first section, geometric factors influencing the flow angle are discussed, as well as the transferability of the results under varying operating conditions (laminar and turbulent). Using a generic minimal model, the behaviour of the flow angle with respect to geometric influence factors and operating conditions is investigated by means of CFD. The results are adapted to real applications in the second section. The direct adjustment of the flow angle results in a significant improvement in the characteristic behaviour of the presented valves (such as flow force and resistance torque). It becomes clear how efficient the adjustment of the flow angle can be if the basis of the formation of the free jet is known. Due to the derivation of the relationship with the help of an abstracted minimal model, the knowledge gained can be used in many ways and can also be transferred to other applications in the field of fluid technology. Optimization processes are more efficiently without using elaborated simulation models e.g. driven by CFD.
Roundtable on Underrepresented Methodologies in the Study of Advertising
Authors: Gangadharbatla Harsha , Haley Eric , Khedekar Deepti , Li Minjie , Richards Jef I. , Timke Edward
Published: January 2025

Abstract: This roundtable explores the underrepresentation of critical methodologies and marginalized perspectives in advertising research. The conversation highlights how personal and professional trajectories shape methodological choices, with the panelists critiquing the dominance of quantitative paradigms and calling for interdisciplinary approaches. Some participants emphasize the need for critical research to interrogate power structures. Others challenge academia’s overreliance on theoretical frameworks and advocate for the legitimacy of grounded, real-world observations. The panel identifies systemic barriers—reviewer biases, curricular gaps, and institutional pressures—that stifle innovation in scholarship, and they stress the need for leadership to amplify marginalized voices and reform graduate education. Concluding with a call to foster a “counter-hegemony” in advertising research, the panelists envision a future where diverse methodologies thrive so the field can address societal issues with greater inclusivity and reflexivity.
Adaptive service-aware fault management method based on bandwidth compression in fine grain OTN
Authors: Liu Wenhong , Zhao Yongli , Lian Meng , Li Xin , Li Yajie , Zhang Jie
Published: January 2025

In network fault management, service recovery failures often occur due to limited resources and bottleneck links. New services with varying latency and bandwidth requirements complicate recovery when multiple services need restoration concurrently. However, current fault management methods struggle to guarantee differentiated service level agreements (SLAs). Therefore, ensuring the transmission quality of different services with limited resources and minimizing fault-affected services is a key challenge for future networks. Fine-grain optical transport networks (fgOTN) support a minimum carrying granularity of 10 Mbps and millisecond-level fast bandwidth adjustment, which provides technical support for fault management. This paper proposes an adaptive service-aware fault management method based on bandwidth compression in fgOTN, which includes a hybrid protection and recovery mechanism based on bandwidth compression (HPRBC) mechanism and an adaptive recovery sequence algorithm (ARSA). Simulation results show that, compared to the end-to-end service recovery (E2ESR) mechanism and hybrid protection and recovery (HPR) mechanism, the proposed mechanism reduces fault-affected services probability by 40% and 46.1%, respectively. Furthermore, when the number of services is 5000, the protected service recovery success probability of the ARSA based on HPRBC is 10.2% higher than that of the baseline.
Improvement of least mean square adaptive algorithm for non-monotonic systems
Authors: Zhang Zhengyang , Liu Siwei , Goetz Stefan M. , Akan Ozgur B.
Published: January 2025

This paper introduces the zlLMS algorithm, an improvement over the traditional least mean square (LMS) algorithm, addressing its limitations in handling nonlinear and non-monotonic transfer functions commonly encountered in engineering systems. The proposed method replaces the LMS algorithm’s error inputs with a function monotonically correlated with the controllable signal. Through mathematical derivations and simulations, the zlLMS algorithm demonstrates superior performance in nonlinear adaptive filtering scenarios, such as the raised-cosine transfer function of Mach-Zehnder modulators and the Lorentz transfer function of diode lasers. Simulation results reveal that the amplitude difference between the ideal and zlLMS-equalized signals is reduced to 1/1000th of the original input signal’s amplitude, underscoring its effectiveness in optics and terahertz technologies. These findings highlight the algorithm’s robustness and potential for broad applications in engineering, especially where nonlinear dynamics are involved.
3.5 µm watt-level all-fiber Er3+-doped laser based on high-damage-resistant multi-color dielectric fiber mirrors
Authors: Zhou Xin , Wang Ning , Song Luming , Huang Lu , Su Jue , Bu Yikun , Luo Zhengqian
Published: January 2025

We report ∼3.5 µm watt-level continuous-wave (CW) and gain-switched all-fiber Er3+: ZBLAN lasers using multi-color dielectric fiber mirrors (DFMs). A section of 1 mol.% Er3+: ZBLAN double-clad fiber with the 976/1976 nm dual-wavelength pumping provides ∼3.5 µm optical gain, and two home-made mid-IR DFMs as the input/output cavity mirrors are used to construct ∼3.5 µm all-fiber resonant cavity by self-made FC/PC fiber connectors. The key is to optimize the film structures of the DFMs and the standing-wave field in the film stacks for 0.98/1.98/2.8/3.5 µm multi-color anti- or high-reflection operation and high damage density of >2.5 MW/cm2 (CW) and >74 J/cm2 (pulse) at 3.5 µm which is crucial for mid-IR high-power laser generation. We perform the three following experiments: (1) stable 3.5 µm CW laser operation generates a maximum output power of 1.11 W and the power fluctuation is less than 1.23%; (2) 3.5 µm gain-switching operation with the tunable repetition rate of 10-20 kHz achieves the maximum pulse energy of 32.7 µJ and pulse duration of 1.21 µs; (3) comparison study on the 1976 nm core-pumping or clad-pumping scheme (976 nm clad-pumping always) shows that the 976/1976 nm clad-pumping scheme readily generates 2.8/3.5 µm dual-wavelength lasing with a lower conversion efficiency. This work may offer an alternative solution for low-cost, high-performance, all-fiber mid-IR CW and pulsed laser beyond 3 µm.
Manifesting the connection between Laguerre-Gaussian modes and hypotrochoid modes from quantum Fock-Darwin system
Authors: Chen Yung-Fu , Fang Yu-Han , Tung Jung-Chen , Zheng Xin-Liang , Liang Hsing-Chih
Published: January 2025

The relationship between quantum degeneracies and the emergence of classical periodic orbits in the Fock–Darwin (FD) system is systematically explored by using the ladder operators in the Cartesian coordinates. The quantum-classical connection is analytically developed with the time-dependent coherent state that is theoretically verified to correspond to the Gaussian wave packet state with unitary transformation. The time-dependent coherent state is further used to derive the stationary coherent state that can be expressed as a superposition of degenerate eigenstates. More importantly, the stationary coherent state can alternatively be expressed as an integral of the Gaussian wave packet over a periodic orbit. With the integral representation, the quantum vortex structures of the stationary coherent states can be precisely characterized up to extremely high order. The vortex arrays are generally observed when the phase structures are near the crossing points and cusps of the classical trajectories. Finally, the quantum Fourier transform is employed to verify that the circularly symmetric eigenstate physically corresponds to an ensemble of classical hypotrochoid orbits. This work can provide a pedagogical insight into the formation of Laguerre-Gaussian eigenmodes and hypotrochoid geometric modes in degenerate spherical cavities.
High-speed phase aberration correction in digital holographic microscopy via vortex-Legendre method
Authors: Trujillo Carlos , Ortega Karina , Restrepo René , Padilla-Vivanco Alfonso , Doblas Ana
Published: January 2025

Digital holographic microscopy (DHM) is an effective technique for quantitative phase imaging (QPI) of microscopic samples, yet its accuracy hinges on precise compensation of wavefront aberrations. Conventional methods often rely on iterative, time-intensive procedures or additional optical elements, making it difficult to rapidly and accurately generate fully compensated phase maps. This work introduces a numerical optical vortex as an efficient method for automatically correcting the tilt aberration introduced in off-axis DHM. In addition, combining numerical optical vortices with a robust implementation of Legendre polynomial fitting addresses residual higher-order phase errors. This combined vortex-Legendre method markedly improves the background flatness of reconstructed phase maps, achieving an average slope of 1.8×10−4 rad/pixel across the entire imaged field of view. Validation using calibrated phase objects, such as USAF test targets and star targets, as well as biological samples (e.g., red blood cells), demonstrates its effectiveness in reducing computational overhead to approximately 1 second on a conventional laptop while maintaining high measurement quality for 960×1280-px2 holograms. This robust and fully automated technique represents a significant advancement in real-time, high-accuracy phase imaging for DHM applications
17-GHz self-starting Kerr-lens mode-locked monolithic titanium-sapphire laser
Authors: Fiehler Torben , Wewers Marieke , Wittrock Ulrich
Published: January 2025

We present a novel self-starting Kerr-lens mode-locked monolithic titanium-sapphire (Ti:Sa) laser generating 196 fs pulses at 900 mW average output power with a pulse repetition rate of 17 GHz. This represents the highest repetition rate from a fundamentally Kerr-lens mode-locked Ti:Sa laser. The frequency comb has a sech²-shaped spectrum with a bandwidth of 3.6 nm and has approximately 300 axial modes with an average power per mode of 3 mW. The monolithic resonator was key to this success. We expect that our laser can be scaled to repetition rates above hundred GHz.
Rspo3-mediated metabolic liver zonation regulates systemic glucose metabolism and body mass in mice
Authors: Uno Kenji , Uchino Takuya , Suzuki Takashi , Sayama Yohei , Edo Naoki , Uno-Eder Kiyoko , Morita Koji , Ishikawa Toshio , Koizumi Miho , Honda Hiroaki , Katagiri Hideki , Tsukamoto Kazuhisa
Published: January 2025

The unique architecture of the liver consists of hepatic lobules, dividing the hepatic features of metabolism into 2 distinct zones, namely the pericentral and periportal zones, the spatial characteristics of which are broadly defined as metabolic zonation. R-spondin3 (Rspo3), a bioactive protein promoting the Wnt signaling pathway, regulates metabolic features especially around hepatic central veins. However, the functional impact of hepatic metabolic zonation, regulated by the Rspo3/Wnt signaling pathway, on whole-body metabolism homeostasis remains poorly understood. In this study, we analyze the local functions of Rspo3 in the liver and the remote actions of hepatic Rspo3 on other organs of the body by using murine models. Rspo3 expression analysis shows that Rspo3 expression patterns are spatiotemporally controlled in the murine liver such that it locates in the pericentral zones and converges after feeding, and the dynamics of these processes are disturbed in obesity. We find that viral-mediated induction of Rspo3 in hepatic tissue of obesity improves insulin resistance and prevents body weight gain by restoring attenuated organ insulin sensitivities, reducing adipose tissue enlargement and reversing overstimulated adaptive thermogenesis. Denervation of the hepatic vagus suppresses these remote effects, derived from hepatic Rspo3 induction, toward adipose tissues and skeletal muscle, suggesting that signals are transduced via the neuronal communication consisting of afferent vagal and efferent sympathetic nerves. Furthermore, the non-neuronal inter-organ communication up-regulating muscle lipid utilization is partially responsible for the ameliorations of both fatty liver development and reduced skeletal muscle quality in obesity. In contrast, hepatic Rspo3 suppression through Cre-LoxP-mediated recombination system exacerbates diabetes due to glucose intolerance and insulin resistance, promotes fatty liver development and decreases skeletal muscle quality, resulting in obesity. Taken together, our study results reveal that modulation of hepatic Rspo3 contributes to maintaining systemic glucose metabolism and body composition via a newly identified inter-organ communication mechanism.
Meta-analyses of Culex blood-meals indicates strong regional effect on feeding patterns
Authors: Griep Jet S. , Grant Eve , Pilgrim Jack , Riabinina Olena , Baylis Matthew , Wardeh Maya , Blagrove Marcus S. C.
Published: January 2025

Understanding host utilization by mosquito vectors is essential to assess the risk of vector-borne diseases. Many studies have investigated the feeding patterns of Culex mosquitoes by molecular analysis of blood-meals from field collected mosquitoes. However, these individual small-scale studies only provide a limited understanding of the complex host-vector interactions when considered in isolation. Here, we analyze the Culex blood-feeding data from 109 publications over the last 15 years to provide a global insight into the feeding patterns of Culex mosquitoes, with particular reference to vectors of currently emerging Culex-borne viruses such as West Nile and Usutu. Data on 29990 blood-meals from 70 different Culex species were extracted from published literature. The percentage of blood-meals on amphibian, avian, human, non-human mammalian, and reptilian hosts was determined for each Culex species. Our analysis showed that feeding patterns were not significantly explained by mosquito species-level phylogeny, indicating that external factors play an important role in determining mosquito feeding patterns. For Cx. quinquefasciatus, ‘Cx. pipiens pooled’, and Cx. tritaeniorhynchus, feeding patterns were compared across the world’s seven biogeographical realms. Culex tritaeniorhynchus, ‘Cx. pipiens pooled’ and Cx. quinquefasciatus all had significantly varied feeding patterns between realms. These results demonstrate that feeding patterns of Culex mosquitoes vary between species but can also vary between geographically distinct populations of the same species, indicating that regional or population-level adaptations are major drivers of host utilization. Ultimately, these findings support the surveillance of vector-borne diseases by specifying which host groups are most likely to be at risk.
Exploring effector protein dynamics and natural fungicidal potential in rice blast pathogen Magnaporthe oryzae
Authors: Ferdousy Jannatul , Robin Tanjin Barketullah , Nasrin Mst Sanjida , Ahmed Istiak , Hossain Tawsif , Hasan Md Mehedi , Soaeb Mehrab Hassan , Tamim Md. Ahsanul , Yeasmin Nusrat Jahan , Habiba Ummay , Ahmed Nadim , Rani Nurul Amin , Bhuyian Md Shishir , Vakare Suvarna N. , Moin Abu Tayab , Patil Rajesh B. , Hossain Mohammad Shahadat
Published: January 2025

Rice blast, caused by Magnaporthe oryzae, is one of the most destructive fungal diseases in rice, resulting in major economic losses worldwide. Genetic and genomic studies have identified key genes and proteins, such as AvrPik variants and MAX proteins, that are crucial for the pathogen’s virulence. These effector proteins interact with specific alleles of the Pik gene family on rice chromosome 11, modulating the host’s immune response. In this study, we investigated 35 plant-derived metabolites known for their antifungal properties as potential fungicides against M. oryzae. Using molecular docking, we identified Hecogenin and Cucurbitacin E as strong binders to MAX40 and APIKL2A proteins, which are essential for the fungus’s immune evasion and pathogenicity. Molecular dynamics simulations further confirmed that these compounds form stable, strong interactions with the target proteins, validating their potential as therapeutic agents. Additionally, the compounds were evaluated based on Lipinski’s rule of five and toxicity predictions, indicating their suitability for agricultural use. These results suggest that Hecogenin and Cucurbitacin E could serve as promising lead candidates in the development of novel fungicides for rice blast, offering new strategies for crop protection and sustainable agricultural practices.
Low regulatory T-cells frequency is associated with graft rejection after small bowel transplantation: Clinical and experimental evidence
Authors: Papa-Gobbi Rodrigo , Stringa Pablo , Gentilini Maria Virginia , Ivanoff Ivana , Machuca Mariana , Arreola Nidia Monserrat , Serradilla Javier , Estefanía-Fernández Karla , Talayero Paloma , Velayos María , Sánchez—Zapardiel Elena , Gondolesi Gabriel , Andrés-Moreno Ane , Rumbo Martin , Hernández-Oliveros Francisco
Published: January 2025

Background

Intestinal transplantation (ITx) represents the only curative option for patients with irreversible intestinal failure. Nevertheless, its rejection rate surpasses that of other solid organ transplants due to the heightened immunological load of the gut. Regulatory T-cells (Tregs) are key players in the induction and maintenance of peripheral tolerance, suggesting their potential involvement in modulating host vs. graft responses after ITx. Thus, we investigated the association of Tregs with allograft outcomes in pediatric patients and in an experimental model of small bowel transplantation.

Methods

Treg frequency in human samples was analyzed by Flow cytometry (CD4+CD25highCD127-, blood samples) and immunohistochemistry (FoxP3, graft samples). Experimental allogenic-heterotopic small bowel transplantation was performed in rats and animals divided into 3 groups: non-immunosuppressant treatment, rapamycin (2 mg/kg), and tacrolimus (0.6 mg/kg) treatment. Acute cellular rejection (ACR) was diagnosed based on clinical and histological findings, graft gene expression of pro- and anti-inflammatory mediators assessed by RT-qPCR, serum IL-6 and IL-10 levels by Luminex, and Treg frequency analyzed by flow cytometry (CD4+CD25highFoxP3+).

Results

Blood samples from patients undergoing ACR exhibited a significant reduction in the Treg number compared to those with normo-functional grafts. Similarly, a diminished number of FoxP3+ cells was observed in mucosa samples with ACR. In the experimental model, rapamycin-treated animals displayed clinical and histological findings resembling those not receiving immunosuppression treatment. Notably, ACR correlated with a high CD8/CD4 ratio, loss of T-cell chimerism, mRNA upregulation of pro-inflammatory genes and diminished graft Treg frequency. In contrast, tacrolimus treatment prevented ACR and facilitate blood and graft Treg expansion. Remarkably, recipients who achieved Treg expansion within the graft remained free of ACR even after discontinuation of the immunosuppressant treatment and this phenomenon was associated with increased levels of serum IL-10.

Conclusion

Our clinical and experimental findings underscore the association between Treg frequency and graft rejection after ITx, advocating for strategies that promote their expansion within the gut mucosa to enhance long-term outcomes.
Metabolic profiling of endophytic fungi acting as antagonists of the banana pathogen Colletotrichum musae
Authors: Cumagun Christian Joseph R. , Adiova Joden M. , Jakobs Ruth , Rathgeb Anna , Karlovsky Petr , Müller Caroline
Published: January 2025

Three endophytic strains, Phomopsis sp., Fusarium proliferatum, and Tinctoporellus epimiltinus, isolated from various plants in the rainforest of the Philippines, were investigated regarding their ability to repress growth of the pathogenic fungus Colletotrichum musae on banana fruits causing anthracnose disease. An in vitro plate-to-plate assay and an in vivo sealed box assay were conducted, using commercial versus natural potato dextrose medium (PDA). All tested endophytes were able to significantly reduce C. musae growth compared to the control. However, the type of medium had no significant effect on lesion size of C. musae on banana. An interaction effect between fungal strain and medium could be shown. On the commercial medium, no differences between the biocontrol ability of the fungi and control treatments could be found, while there were significant differences between the fungal strains on natural medium. Lesions on banana incubated with Phomopsis sp. on natural medium were significantly but only slightly larger than those on banana incubated with F. proliferatum. Volatiles released by these two strains and one pathogenic strain of F. graminearum were collected using polydimethylsiloxane tubes and analyzed via gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Twelve volatile metabolites were detected. Benzaldehyde was the most prominent volatile emitted from the commercial and plain medium. 2-Undecanone, 2-nonanone, and phenylethyl-alcohol were detected in individual samples in both media. 1-Decanol and acoradiene were exclusive to the commercial medium, with acoradiene also being unique to F. proliferatum. Five volatileorganic compounds (VOCs)were emitted from all tested fungal species: 2-heptanone, 2-nonanone, 2-undecanone, 2-tridecanone, and phenylethyl-alcohol. Beta-acorenol was detected in F. proliferatum grown on both media. To reveal whether the medium (commercial PDA versus potato extract) affected the metabolism of the fungi, metabolic footprints were assessed via high performance liquid chromatography with quadrupole time of flight mass spectrometry MS (HPLC-QTOF-MS). A total of 388 metabolic signals were recorded. The intensities of 80–90% of these signals differed significantly between the two types of media. Metabolic footprints varied in response to different potato dextrose medium preparations. The two promising fungal strains may be used to reduce postharvest decay and losses in fruits.
Migratory birds benefit from urban environments in a highly anthropized Neotropical region
Authors: Pacheco-Muñoz Rodrigo , Ceja-Madrigal Adrián , Schondube Jorge E.
Published: January 2025

Land use change from wildlands to urban and productive environments can dramatically transform ecosystem structure and processes. Despite their structural and functional differences from wildlands, human-modified environments offer unique habitat elements for wildlife. In this study, we examined how migratory birds use urban, productive, and wildland environments of a highly anthropized region of Western Mexico known as “El Bajío”. We used Generalized Linear Models to compare species richness, abundance, and the functional traits of migratory bird assemblages among these three environments. Results revealed differences in species richness, composition, and the functional traits of migratory birds among environments. Regardless of wildlands showing medium to high levels of human disturbance, they presented the highest species richness and abundance of migratory birds, with urban environments presenting the lowest values. Insectivorous and granivorous birds were dominant in the migratory bird assemblages of the three environments. The migratory bird assemblages of productive environments had more grassland granivorous birds. In contrast, insectivorous birds with dense habitat preferences and short culmen lengths dominated the urban bird assemblage. Migratory bird assemblages in productive and urban environments showed similar species richness and abundance of insectivorous birds, but they differ in their composition. Our results reveal that urban trees allowed cities to function as simplified forests, showing that the urban environment has the untapped potential to support complex assemblages of migratory birds. To promote migratory birds in human-modified landscapes, we must maintain complex vegetation areas that allow birds with diverse functional traits to overwinter in urban and productive environments.
Research on the evolution of college online public opinion risk based on improved Grey Wolf Optimizer combined with LSTM model
Authors: Cao Chao , Li Ziyu , Li Lingzhi , Luo Fanglu
Published: January 2025

Since the dissemination of information is more rapid and the scale of users on online platforms is enormous, the public opinion risk is more visible and harder to tackle for universities and authorities. Improving the accuracy of predictions regarding online public opinion crises, especially those related to campuses, is crucial for maintaining social stability. This research proposes a public opinion crisis prediction model that applies the Grey Wolf Optimizer (GWO) algorithm combined with long short-term memory (LSTM) and implements it to analyze a trending topic on Sina Weibo to validate its prediction accuracy. A full-chain analytical framework for online public opinion prediction is established in this study, which enables the model to illustrate the level of risk related to public opinion and its variation trend by introducing the public opinion risk index. The prediction accuracy of the model is validated through several evaluation criteria, and a comparison between real and predicted results, and the simulation of the intervention on this incident indicates that the proposed model is competent for both trend prediction and assisting in intervention. The study also demonstrates the importance of immediate response and intervention to public opinion crises.
Effects of plasma-activated water on germination ‎and initial seedling growth of wheat
Authors: Asghari Ahad , Sabbaghtazeh Elnaz , Milani Nasrin Roshan , Kouhi Mohammad , Maralani Alireza Ahangarzadeh , Gharbani Parvin , Khiaban Alireza Sotoudeh
Published: January 2025

In this research, the effect of seed halopriming with plasma activated water (PAW) on wheat germination parameters have been studied. Response surface methodology was used to investigate the effect of three factors including: 1) type of water (distilled water, 0.2 and 0.4 min/mL PAW), 2) priming time (1, 3 and 5 h), and 3) salinity of the priming solution (0, 25 and 50 mmol/L NaCl) on wheat germination parameters. The results revealed that increasing PAW levels up to 0.18 min/mL led to an increase in seed germination percentage, seedling weight (both fresh and dry), seedling length, vigor indexes A and B, and water uptake and decreasing mean germination time. Increasing the level of PAW by more than 0.18 min/mL had a negative effect on these parameters. The fresh and dry weight of the seedlings respectively at the 0.18 and 0.2 min/mL levels of PAW, in all salinity levels, had the highest value. The effect of halopriming on enhancing seedling length was more than other characteristics. The optimum ranges of PAW, salinity and priming time were 0.13 min/mL, 10.3 mmol/L and 120.22 min for germination percentage, 0.18 min/mL, 15 mmol/L and 191.24 min for seedling fresh weight, 0.15 min/mL, 13.84 mmol/L and 221.2 min for seedling dry weight, 0.33 min/mL, 24.36 mmol/L and 152.62 min for mean germination time, 0.11 min/mL, 19.03 mmol/L and 177.77 min for vigor indexes A and 0.1 min/mL, 18.1 mmol/L and 178.99 min for vigor indexes B.
Insulin therapy adherence and its associated factors among diabetic patients in a Ghanaian primary care hospital
Authors: Sefah Israel Abebrese , Mensah Michael , Hutton-Nyameaye Araba Ata , Sarkodie Emmanuel , Meyer Johanna C. , Godman Brian , Bangalee Varsha
Published: January 2025

Background

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a global health problem. Adherence to intensive insulin therapy is necessary to achieve better glycemic control in types 1 and 2 DM. This study aimed to evaluate the extent of adherence to insulin therapy, its predictors and to identify barriers to its adherence.

Method

This was a cross-sectional survey among adult (≥18 years) diabetic patients who are currently using insulin, either alone or in combination with an oral antidiabetic regimen, and seeking primary care at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology Hospital in Ghana. A total of one hundred and eight-six patients were conveniently sampled, and interviewed. Insulin adherence was determined using the Medication Adherence Reporting Scale-5. Descriptive statistics, a chi-square test of independence, and a multiple logistic regression analysis were performed using STATA version 14 (StataCorp, TX USA).

Results

The majority of the patients interviewed were over 60 years (40.32%); female (61.83%); married (68.82%); and had completed secondary education (48.39%). 67.20% of the patients were adherent to insulin therapy. Adherence level was associated with age (p = 0.020), marital status (p = 0.001), employment status (p = 0.012), type of DM (p<0.001), regular follow-up (p = 0.007) and comorbidities (p = 0.002) and was only predicted by the type of DM (aOR = 14.82 C.I 1.34–163.50, p-value = 0.028).

Conclusion

Adherence to insulin therapy among our study population was suboptimal, which is a concern considering the associated increased risk of complications. Adherence assessment and counselling by healthcare professionals to address barriers to poor adherence must be continually undertaken to achieve optimal glycemic control.

Impact of findings on practice statements

Continuous adherence assessment and counselling must be offered to all diabetes mellitus patients on insulin therapy as part of their ambulatory care to help improve outcomes.

Using the Medication Adherence Reporting Scale-5 to determine patient adherence levels is an easy-to-use and an inexpensive method; however, it should be used with caution due to the potential for misclassification.

Efforts must be made to provide appropriate strategies to deal with barriers to insulin adherence at ambulatory care clinics as part of the individualized comprehensive diabetic care to reduce diabetic complications.