bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Absorption and Time-Resolved Spectroscopy Measurements of the 3H4 →3H6 Transition in Tm:YLF Between 75–300 K
Authors: Kabelitz Kavita Desai , Steinforth Austin. W. , Mironov Andrey E. , Eden J. Gary , Galvin Thomas C. , Spinka Thomas M.
Published: December 2024

Spectroscopic measurements of the 3H4 →3H6 transition in Tm:YLF were conducted. Absorption spectra, emission spectra, and spontaneous emission lifetime are reported as a function of both temperature and doping concentration.
Two-Photon Absorption Cross-Section of Neutral and Cationic Tetraphenylporphyrins
Authors: de Oliveira Diego França , Faustino Maria Amparo Ferreira , De Boni Leonardo
Published: December 2024

This study explores new tetraphenylporphyrins with neutral and cationic ligands to determine their two-photon absorption cross-section. Results indicate parity forbidden transitions are still observable, while stronger parity allowed transitions appear inside the first biological window.
Pulse characterization via two-photon auto- and cross-correlation
Authors: Finger K. , Walker S. , Becker A.
Published: December 2024

We present the application of a multiple-Gaussian approach to characterize ultrashort vacuum and deep ultraviolet pulses via auto- and cross-correlation methods. We compare characterizations obtained via both methods with chirped and unchirped Gaussians.
Strengthening and Accelerating Optics and Photonics in the Philippines
Authors: De Guzman Joyce Ann T. , Nacianceno Edna , Reyes Clarinda , Vera Desiree , Uy Jenica , Tumaneng Tony Rose , Mejia Hannah Marie T. , Paringit Enrico C.
Published: December 2024

This research explores key challenges, strategies and priority programs for the transformation and advancement of photonics in the Philippines. The identified priority research areas include optical communication, computational optics, fabrication, laser systems, and optoelectronics.
Theoretical Investigation on Differential Trapping by Femtosecond Optical Tweezers
Authors: Kumar Deepak , Singh Krishna Kant , Singh Ajitesh , Goswami Debabrata
Published: December 2024

Femtosecond laser pulses with Gaussian intensity profile can differentiate nanoparticles by creating three distinct trapping sites based on their non-linear optical properties. This "differential trapping" method enables non-contact and non-invasive micro- or nanomanipulation of nanoparticles.
Investigating a Transition in the Dynamics of Strong-Field Double Ionization in an Intense Bicircular Laser Pulse
Authors: Chaloupka Jan L.
Published: December 2024

Using a classical ensemble method, we probe the double ionization of rare gases in intense bicircular laser pulses across a range of intensities and ionization potentials. We uncover a dramatic transition in the dynamics that lead to non-sequential double ionization, and establish a classical interpretation of the well-known Keldysh parameter.
Optical matrix multiplication as an analogue for quantum computing
Authors: Nape Isaac , Koni Mwezi , Bezuidenhout Hadrian , Forbes Andrew
Published: December 2024

We report a technique for executing quantum computing protocols that are inspired by photonic matrix multiplication and exploits the inherent tensor product structure of transverse spatial modes.
Two-Photon Lithography-Based Miniaturised Heavy Metal Sensing Platform
Authors: Sharma Akanksha , Rani Sweta , Suryawanshi Tejas , Jaiswal Arun , Das Rahul Kumar , Saxena Sumit , Shukla Shobha
Published: December 2024

We report a two-photon lithography-based fabrication of fluorescent micro/nanostructures using non-metal doped-carbon quantum dots incorporated with a photosensitive resin. These micro/nanostructures serve as a platform for sensitive detection of heavy metal ions in water bodies.
Transverse-Mode Nonlinear Interactions in Strongly Coupled Integrated Waveguides
Authors: Xia L. , van der Slot P.J.M. , Timmerkamp M. , Fallnich C. , Boller K.-J.
Published: December 2024

We experimentally investigate control and analysis of spatio-temporal nonlinear interactions by implementing simultaneous supercontinuum generation in transverse modes of chip-integrated dual-core waveguides. The approach can be important for progress in multimode integrated nonlinear photonics.
Acoustoelectric RF Mechanical Oscillator with Optomechanical Readout
Authors: Mack John , Storey Matthew J. , Otterstrom Nils T. , Behunin Ryan O. , Starbuck Andrew , Leenheer Andrew , Musick Kate , Trotter Douglas , Rakich Peter T. , Eichenfield Matt
Published: December 2024

We present a CMOS-fabricated optomechanical microdisk resonator with acoustoelectric gain for a 949 MHz mechanical mode. Applying +5V of DC bias results in a 9.5 dB increase in the optically-detected RF power of the microdisk.
Terahertz half-wave plate leveraging Exceptional Points in Non-Hermitian System
Authors: Sharma Parul , Kumar Brijesh , Eswaramoorthy Lekshmi , Kumar Anshuman
Published: December 2024

This study explores terahertz (THz) optical sensors leveraging exceptional points (EPs) in non-Hermitian systems, using split-ring resonators. We demonstrate the use of anisotropic metasurface as half-wave plates and their enhanced conversion efficiency around EP.
Conditional Fisher Information Identifies Best Machine-learned, Diffractive-Encoded, Polarimetric Compressed Predictions
Authors: Perry Altai , Weng Xiaojing , Feng Ji , Vuong Luat T.
Published: December 2024

We analyze the machine-learned, multi-parameter predictions of emitter polarization and diffractive-window angle with conditional Fisher Information. Randomness and blur enhance the compression and improve the machine-learned predictions.
A Plasmonic Wavelength Division Demultiplexer for 1310/1550/1650 nm Based on a Compact-Size Air-Gap Filter
Authors: Wahsheh Rami A. , Wahsheh Luay A.
Published: December 2024

We introduce a novel design and analysis of an ultra-compact plasmonic wavelength division demultiplexer using an air-gap filter. Our results indicate that the proposed design can sort 1310/1550 nm and 1310/1650 nm wavelengths.
Polarization-Entangled Visible-Telecom Photon Pair Generation using SiN Waveguides
Authors: Vijay Vijay , Ghosh Joyee , Venkataraman Vivek
Published: December 2024

We propose an integrated source of polarization-entangled visible-telecom photon pairs (~520-1509 nm) via SFWM in SiN waveguides, with a maximum concurrence of ~0.98. Such sources could be used for quantum communication, sensing, computing, and networking.
Design of an Ultra-compact, Energy-efficient Non-volatile Photonic Switch Based on Phase Change Materials
Authors: Dao Khoi Phuong , Hu Juejun , Soref Richard
Published: December 2024

We present a non-volatile 2 × 2 switch design leveraging the strong interactions of light with phase change materials (PCMs), thereby realizing a compact, efficient photonic switch with low crosstalk and large bandwidth.
Integrated-optic Exclusive OR Logical Gate Capable of Processing Arbitrary Number of Bits
Authors: Takiguchi Koichi , Nishihara Hironori
Published: December 2024

We report an integrated-optic exclusive OR gate comprising a slab star coupler-type optical discrete Fourier transform circuit. We realized the gate for processing four bits and verified its operation using parallel four-bit 40 GHz pulses.
Study and Fabrication of a Multimode Interference Offset Tapered No-core Fiber Refractometer Enhanced by Taper Positioning
Authors: Quiñones-Flores Abraham A. , Guzmán-Sepulveda José R. , Castillo-Guzmán Arturo A.
Published: December 2024

A fiber optic refractometer is demonstrated based on the multimode interference phenomenon utilizing a tapered no-core fiber with an offset. The sensor’s sensitivity is enhanced by choosing the taper’s placement to enable higher-order mode excitation.
Single-Sided Cavity QED Effect on an Optical Nanowire
Authors: Sahu Subrat , Nayak Kali P. , Jha Rajan
Published: December 2024

A single-sided photonic crystal cavity structure on an optical nanowire is proposed to realize cavity quantum electrodynamics. Unidirectional coupling of single photons can be achieved into the guided mode of nanowire from a quantum emitter.
Quantum Machine Learning Performance Analysis: Accuracy and Efficiency Trade-offs in Linear Classification
Authors: Aminpour Sara , Banad Yaser , Sharif Sarah
Published: December 2024

This study introduces the Nelder-Mead minimization method for data reuploading and examines the performance of quantum machine learning algorithms for linear classification using 1-qubit, 2-qubit, and 2-qubit entangled systems. We analyze accuracy and computation time across varying training sample sizes, revealing trade-offs between classification performance and computational efficiency in quantum systems.
Experimental Investigation of S-band Optical Amplifiers in Long Haul Coherent Transmission
Authors: Pratiwi D. , Hazarika P. , Tan M. , Donodin A. , Phillips I.D. , Harper P. , Forysiak W.
Published: December 2024

We experimentally compare the performance of S-band amplifiers in a long-haul coherent transmission system using 30 GBaud DP-16QAM signals over up to 1650 km of standard single-mode fibre.
Photonics × Machine Learning
Authors: Kojima Keisuke , Koike-Akino Toshiaki
Published: December 2024

We will present the recent progress of generative AI for the design of photonic devices, including variable autoencoders and diffusion models, and latent space optimization. We also review our non-traditional way of implementing optical neural networks using data re-uploading technique originally proposed for quantum computing.
Room-Temperature Quantum Optomechanics and Free-Electron Quantum Optics
Authors: Huang Guanhao
Published: December 2024

We discuss experimental observation of quantum optical effects in two experiments: the first demonstrations of room-temperature quantum optomechanics with a macroscopic solid-state mechanical object, and free electron-photon non-classical correlation mediated by photonic integrated circuits.
New quasiparticles in semiconductor moiré superlattices
Authors: Liu Zhida , Wang Haonan , Yang Li , Li Xiaoqin
Published: December 2024

In this study, we identify novel many-body excited states in transition metal dichalcogenides (TMD) homobilayers. We observe that optical resonances in MoSe2 bilayers change with variations in twist angle and doping. A distinct class of "charge-transfer" trions emerges as the atomic alignment between the layers gradually shifts. Spatially, the optically excited electron-hole pair predominantly exists at a different site than the doped hole within a moiré supercell. In terms of momentum, while the exciton is located in the K-valley, the hole is situated in the Γ-valley.
Development, Characterization, and Applications of Laser-driven X-ray Sources at ELI Beamlines
Authors: Hort O. , Chaulagain U. , Parkman T. , Jurkovičová L. , Albrecht M. , Lamač M. , Vábek J. , Pulnova Y. , Raclavský M. , Staněk M. , Nejdl J.
Published: December 2024

The ELI Beamlines facility advances laser-driven sources of high-flux, coherent XUV and X-ray pulses. Key developments include precisely tunable high-order harmonics and advanced sources based on relativistic laser-matter interaction, employing both under-critical and over-dense plasmas.
Multiwavelength and multiport beam splitting for the generation of NOON states through nonlocal metasurfaces
Authors: Tian Yu , Liu Qi , Tian Zhaohua , Gong Qihuang , Gu Ying
Published: December 2024

We demonstrate that nonlocal geometric phase gradient metasurfaces can function as a series of multiport beam splitters with spectral-polarization-dependence, through which high-NOON states with four spatial modes can be prepared.
Demand and supply side factors that drive delayed referrals from traditional birth attendants to public primary healthcare facilities: Insights from three states in Nigeria
Authors: Okeke Chinelo Ifeoma , Agwu Prince , Etiaba Enyi , Onwujekwe Obinna
Published: December 2024

Despite global efforts encouraging institutional deliveries with skilled attendants, many pregnant women in developing countries such as Nigeria continue to rely on traditional birth attendants (TBAs) for child delivery. Attempts at weeding off TBAs have been firmly resisted by their clients who have developed confidence and trust in their services and herald them as first and trusted responders to child delivery cases. Unfortunately, recent evidence has shown that TBAs in servicing public trust and for other reasons, often do not timely refer their clients to the closest source of formal healthcare–primary healthcare centres (PHCs). Looking into the motivations for these reasons is the crux of the current study. Data were collected through qualitative interviews with 85 respondents across three states in Nigeria. The qualitative data comprised of 73 in-depth interviews and 12 focus group discussions. Respondents were TBAs and other informal health providers, formal health workers, policymakers, community leaders and service users. Data were analysed thematically to explore the demand and supply determinants of referrals from TBAs to the formal healthcare providers. Demand side factors that constrain referrals from TBAs to PHCs were community preference for TBAs, and cultural and religious inclinations of the consumers to TBAs’ practices of infusing religious teachings and rules into the process of child delivery. Supply-side factors were infrastructural deficits, staff shortages and lack of sanctions for poor practices in PHCs. Demand and supply-side factors constrain the referral of pregnant women from TBAs to the PHC facility for child delivery. These factors should be addressed, and innovative interventions used to link the TBAs to the formal health system for increased institutional deliveries with skilled birth attendants. The interventions could include incentives to TBAs to encourage early referrals.
Effects of support systems on the mental health of nursing students during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Brown Allison , Cook Paul , Peterson Kerry , Centi Sophia , McNair Bryan
Published: December 2024

Mental Health has been declining over the last three years, coinciding with the COVID-19 pandemic. A person’s support system can either improve or worsen their mental health. Nursing students likely have been severely impacted by COVID-19 and their support system may impact their mental health. This study used the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21) and the Social Support Scale to measure the effects of a positive and negative social support system on undergraduate nursing students at a university in the Western United States during the COVID-19 pandemic. Descriptive statistics and correlations were used to examine the relationships between stress, anxiety, and depression and support systems among undergraduate nursing students. Data were collected from students prior to the start of their program through two pre-course surveys, including the DASS-21 symptom measure and a 11-item Social Support Scale. Both surveys had established reliability and validity. Results showed that 17.8% of participants scored with severe or extremely severe anxiety, 6.6% with severe or extremely severe depression and 6.7% with severe or extremely severe stress. The average score for instrumental support was M = 4.22 (SD = 0.72), positive support was M = 4.29 (SD = 0.73) and negative support was M = 3.96 (SD = 0.87). The correlational analyses support a significant relationship between negative support and stress (r = .26). The results indicate that nursing students had a strong positive and instrumental support system in place. The results also show a low number of students reporting negative social support. However, the significant correlation between negative social support and stress indicates the harmful effects of a negative support system on a student’s mental health when it did occur. These results help us to further understand how the COVID-19 pandemic impacted the mental health of undergraduate nursing students.
AI-assisted design of lightweight and strong 3D-printed wheels for electric vehicles
Authors: Akande Timileyin Opeyemi , Alabi Oluwaseyi O. , Rizwan Ali , Ajagbe Sunday A. , Olaleye Amos O. , Adigun Mathew O.
Published: December 2024

The automotive industry is undergoing a transformative shift towards electric vehicles (EVs), driven by environmental concerns and technological advancements. One critical aspect of EV design is the development of lightweight yet robust components, including 3D vehicle wheels. This research explores the implementation of generative models in Computer-Aided Design (CAD) systems to optimize the design of 3D vehicle wheels for electric vehicles. Through the use of generative design and additive manufacturing, we aim to create vehicle wheels that are energy-efficient, aesthetically pleasing, and structurally sound. Electric vehicles are gaining popularity due to their environmental benefits and reduced operating costs, making lightweight and strong wheels an important design goal. This research proposes a novel approach for designing lightweight and strong 3D vehicle wheels for EVs using generative models. The proposed approach involves the following steps: collect and prepare data, choose a generative model architecture, train the generative model, and generate new wheel designs. The approach methods show potential to revolutionize the design and manufacturing of lightweight and strong 3D-printed wheels for electric vehicles. In conclusion, generative models can be used to design and optimize wheel designs, making it possible to create safer, more efficient, and more cost-effective wheels.
Effects of aerobic, resistance and combined training on endothelial function and arterial stiffness in older adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: da Silva Raphael Silveira Nunes , da Silva Diego Silveira , de Oliveira Patrícia Caetano , Waclawovsky Gustavo , Schaun Maximiliano Isoppo
Published: December 2024

We conducted a systematic review of randomized clinical trials evaluating the effects of aerobic, resistance and/or combined training on flow-mediated dilation (FMD) and/or pulse wave velocity (PWV) in older adults. The studies were selected from the electronic databases PubMed, Cochrane, LILACS, EMBASE, Web of Science, and the gray literature. We assessed the studies using Cochrane risk of bias (RoB2) tool and the GRADE tool. The GRADE assessment showed moderate quality of evidence for aerobic training and resistance training and very low for combined training. The measures of effects are presented as mean differences of the intervention group versus the control group and related 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) pooled by a random-effects model using an inverse variance method. Our analysis of 24 RCTs (Intervention group [n = 251]: 67.7 ± 5.6 years old; control group [n = 228]: 68.7 ± 5.9 years old) showed that aerobic training was effective to improve FMD (0.64% [95% CI 0.24 to 1.03], p = 0.002) and PWV (–1.21 m/s [95% CI –1.37 to –1.05], p< 0.001) by compared to the control group. The subgroup analyses showed no FMD differences following aerobic training in healthy adults when compared to those with any health condition. Combined training was effective in improving FMD (0.60% [95% CI 0.50 to 0.71], p< 0.001) and PWV (-0.79 m/s [95% CI –1.23 to –0.35], p = 0.002). But these same parameters did not show any improvement in response to resistance training. A major limitation of this study is that the analysis to evaluate the effect of resistance training on PWV include only one study, and no inferences could be made from the data. Aerobic and combined training, but not resistant training, improve flow-mediated dilation and pulse wave velocity in the elderly. PROSPERO: CRD42021275282.
Antioxidant, anti-prostate cancer potential, and phytochemical composition of the ethyl acetate stem bark extract of Boascia coriacea (Pax.)
Authors: Moriasi Gervason , Ngugi Mathew , Mwitari Peter , Omwenga George
Published: December 2024

Background

The antioxidant and anticancer potential of natural compounds, particularly from medicinal plants, is increasingly being explored as alternatives to synthetic antioxidants and chemotherapeutics. Boascia coriacea (Pax) has been traditionally used for treating various ailments, including oxidative stress-related diseases and prostate cancer. However, there is a paucity of empirical evidence to validate the ethnomedicinal claims, hence this study.

Methods

The antioxidant capacity of the extract was assessed using 1,1-Diphenyl-2-picryl Hydrazyl radical (DPPH) radical scavenging and hydrogen peroxide scavenging assays, alongside total antioxidant capacity. In vitro cytotoxicity was determined using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay on Vero CCL-81 normal cells and DU-145 prostate cancer cells. Gene expression levels of ar, bcl-2, caspase 3, cdk1, and p53 were quantified using qPCR to elucidate the mechanisms of action. Phytochemical analysis was conducted using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry.

Results

The studied plant extract exhibited significant DPPH radical scavenging activity, with an EC50 of 0.008 μg/ml, 10-fold lower than that of L-ascorbic acid (0.08 μg/ml), indicating potent antioxidant capacity. Similarly, the extract demonstrated substantial hydrogen peroxide scavenging activity, albeit with lower efficacy (EC50 of 1039.10 μg/ml) compared to L-ascorbic acid, and a total antioxidant capacity of 454.39±25.26 μg AAE/mg dw. In vitro cytotoxicity assay revealed a CC50 of 68.61 μg/ml against Vero CCL-81 cells and an IC50 of 32.16 μg/ml against DU-145 cells, with a superior selectivity index of 2.13, compared to doxorubicin’s 1.46. The extract significantly downregulated the expression of ar, bcl-2, normalised caspase 3, cdk1 genes while upregulating p53 in DU-145 cells, suggesting its role in inducing apoptosis and inhibiting cancer cell proliferation. Phytochemical analysis identified 19 compounds, including lup-20(29)-en-3-one (7.99%) and lupeol (59.49%), which are associated with anticancer activity.

Conclusion

The ethyl acetate stem bark extract of B. coriacea demonstrates significant antioxidant and anticancer activities, potentially through modulation of apoptosis and cell cycle pathways. The presence of bioactive compounds supports its potential as a therapeutic agent, warranting further investigation for developing novel treatments for prostate cancer and oxidative stress-related conditions.
Gendered narratives and cultural shifts: A qualitative study on decadal changes in community alcohol consumption
Authors: Tan Ming Gui , Wider Walton , Pang Nicholas Tze Ping , Lasimbang Helen Benedict , Shoesmith Wendy Diana , Tangau Corine Rosapane M. , Jiang Leilei , Bhutasang Natchana
Published: December 2024

Alcohol consumption has been a central practice in Sabah, Malaysia. However, this region has witnessed a nuanced shift in drinking habits over the last decade, raising concerns about the health, economic, and social implications of alcohol use within the community in Sabah. This study explores the impact of gender narratives and cultural transformations on alcohol consumption within Sabah over the last decade. The objectives of this research include 1) assessing the shifts in alcohol consumption patterns over the last 10 years, 2) understand the role of gender differences in shaping these patterns, and 3) identify the economic consequences resulting from the changes. Employing a qualitative approach, we conducted focus group interviews with members of the native community, each group consisting of up to 7 participants. Thematic analysis was used to identify key themes pertaining to gender roles, cultural practices, and socioeconomic influences of alcohol consumption. The data were then contextualized using Bronfenbrenner’s social-ecological model and social role theory. The study reveals a significant shift in drinking habits. Historically, alcohol was mostly consumed by men, but now more women are drinking, changing long-standing gender roles related to alcohol use. Children often copy their parents’ drinking behaviors, and with alcohol being more easily available, more people are drinking than before. Our findings also expose the complex consequences of alcohol use, which extend to health concerns, familial tension, and economic hardship. Despite the entrenched cultural status of alcohol, these negative outcomes are exacerbated by a lack of supportive healthcare services. In light of these insights, the study suggests the need for intervention plans that respect the cultural background of Sabah and account for gender dynamics while tackling the current issues of alcohol misuse. The research adds to the wider conversation about managing alcohol in different cultural settings and also recommended strategies based on the findings, such as cultural and gender sensitive community programs, youth centered programs, community-based healthcare services, employment support and training and development of laws and policies.
B-UMCS: Blockchain-enabled Unified Medical Consultancy Service
Authors: Almohana Albatoul , Almomani Iman , El-Shafai Walid
Published: December 2024

The advent of blockchain technology within the healthcare domain has signified a paradigm shift, transitioning from an emerging trend to an essential infrastructure component that ensures decentralization, transparency, integrity, and persistent availability. Despite its potential, the healthcare sector has not fully capitalized on the vast array of benefits blockchain technology offers. Most existing works utilized blockchain technology within a specific healthcare entity’s services but not among several healthcare organizations. They notably lack the provision for direct communication and knowledge transfer between doctors from different hospitals. Therefore, this paper introduces a pioneering Blockchain-based Unified Medical Consultancy Service (B-UMCS) that leverages blockchain’s robustness to revolutionize telehealth services by (a) alleviating the shortage of medical expertise through facilitating the interconnection of physicians from diverse hospitals and geographical areas onto a consolidated platform, (b) promoting the seamless sharing of medical consultations, electronic health records (EHRs), and expert insights while upholding rigorous security and privacy protocols, (c) integrating the inherent security mechanisms of blockchain with the distributed data storage functionality offered by the Interplanetary File System (IPFS). This work details the B-UMCS’s components, interactions, smart contracts, protocols, algorithms, storage and transmission of EHRs, and their corresponding implementations. The evaluations of the proposed B-UMCS reveal that it secures and facilitates the sharing of EHRs and enables healthcare professionals to collaborate and exchange expertise seamlessly across institutional boundaries. They are additionally ensuring that healthcare providers can offer their knowledge in an efficient and scalable manner. Overall, B-UMCS not only addresses the current challenges in healthcare data security and accessibility but also opens new avenues for collaboration and knowledge sharing among healthcare professionals, ultimately contributing to improving patient care quality.
A multi-layer perceptron neural network for varied conditional attributes in tabular dispersed data
Authors: Przybyła-Kasperek Małgorzata , Marfo Kwabena Frimpong
Published: December 2024

The paper introduces a novel approach for constructing a global model utilizing multilayer perceptron (MLP) neural networks and dispersed data sources. These dispersed data are independently gathered in various local tables, each potentially containing different objects and attributes, albeit with some shared elements (objects and attributes). Our approach involves the development of local models based on these local tables imputed with some artificial objects. Subsequently, local models are aggregated using weighted techniques. To complete, the global model is retrained using some global objects. In this study, the proposed method is compared with two existing approaches from the literature—homogeneous and heterogeneous multi-model classifiers. The analysis reveals that the proposed approach consistently outperforms these existing methods across multiple evaluation criteria including classification accuracy, balanced accuracy, F1−score, and precision. The results demonstrate that the proposed method significantly outperforms traditional ensemble classifiers and homogeneous ensembles of MLPs. Specifically, the proposed approach achieves an average classification accuracy improvement of 15% and a balanced accuracy enhancement of 12% over the baseline methods mentioned above. Moreover, in practical applications such as healthcare and smart agriculture, the model showcases superior properties by providing a single model that is easier to use and interpret. These improvements underscore the model’s robustness and adaptability, making it a valuable tool for diverse real-world applications.
Coordination strategy and contract design of platform supply chain for large-scale sports events with low carbon preference
Authors: Chen Qianlan , Mao Siyi , Xu Ke , Lu Lin
Published: December 2024

The organization of sports events, while generating economic benefits, inevitably imposes significant environmental pressures. Conducting green and low-carbon sports events have become a global consensus. In addressing the carbon emissions and benefit coordination issues on the production end of infrastructure construction for large-scale sports events, we considers the significant role of digital platforms in the industry’s low-carbon transformation and upgrade, and innovatively incorporates platforms as decision-making entities and investigates the equilibrium strategies for low-carbon cooperation under three different power structures: one led by the sports events materials supplier, one by the materials distributor, and one by the integrated service platform. Additionally, it designs related cost-sharing contracts. The findings suggest that: centralized decision-making is more conducive to aligning the interests of various entities within the sports events platform supply chain. Different power structures have distinct impacts on overall supply chain profits and carbon emissions. Specifically, the supply chain achieves the highest overall profit under the domination of the integrated service platform, while the lowest level of carbon reduction occurs under the domination of the materials distributor. These results provide strategic insights for the low-carbon development of sports events and the coordinated cooperation within platform supply chain.
Biomathematical model to analyze the transmission dynamics of Covid-19: Case study, Santiago de Cali, Colombia
Authors: Alfaro Miguel , Rubio Carlos , Fuertes Guillermo , Vargas Manuel , Mejia-Giraldo Armando
Published: December 2024

The Covid-19 pandemic has challenged both the scientific community and government authorities in Colombia. Both sectors are collaborating to understand the transmission and spread of the virus and to establish control strategies. This study proposes a biomathematical model with difference equations to analyze the transmission of Covid-19 in Santiago de Cali from March 2020 to June 2022. The results indicate that most of the inhabitants could be positive at some point, but with containment measures, a manageable number of symptomatic cases could be maintained. In addition, the cumulative fatality curve is fitted to the Gompertz model. The method used for parameter fitting or estimation was Gauss-Newton. This approach provides valuable information for decision making and pandemic management in the city.
Monitoring forest cover and land use change in the Congo Basin under IPCC climate change scenarios
Authors: Yuh Yisa Ginath , N’Goran Kouamé Paul , Kross Angela , Heurich Marco , Matthews H. Damon , Turner Sarah E.
Published: December 2024

The Congo Basin tropical forests are home to many endemic and endangered species, and a global hotspot for forest fragmentation and loss. Yet, little has been done to document the region’s rapid deforestation, assess its effects and consequences, or project future forest cover loss to aid in effective planning. Here we applied the Random Forest (RF) supervised classification algorithm in Google Earth Engine (GEE) to map and quantify decadal changes in forest cover and land use (LCLU) in the Congo Basin between 1990 and 2020. We cross-validated our LCLU maps with existing global land cover products, and projected our validated results to 2050 under three climate change scenarios, using the Multiperceptron Artificial Neural Network and Markov chain algorithms of the Idrissi Land Change modeller from TerrSet. We found that, over 5.2% (215,938 km2), 1.2% (50,046 km2), and a 2.1% (86,658 km2) of dense forest cover were lost in the Congo Basin between 1990–2000, 2000–2010, and 2010–2020, totaling approximately 8.5% (352,642 km2) loss estimated between 1990–2020. For the period 2020–2050, we estimated a projected 3.7–4.0% (174,860–204,161 km2) loss in dense forest cover under all three climate change scenarios (i.e., 174,860 km2 loss projected for SSP1-2.6, 199,608 km2 for SSP2-4.5, and 204,161 km2 for SSP5-8.5), suggesting that approximately 12.3–12.6% (527,502 km2–556,803 km2) of dense forest cover could be lost over a 60-year period (1990–2050). Our study represents a novel application of spatial modeling tools and Machine Learning algorithms for assessing long-term deforestation and forest degradation within the Congo Basin, under human population growth and IPCC climate change scenarios. We provide spatial and quantitative results required for supporting long-term deforestation and forest degradation monitoring within Congo Basin countries, especially under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) REDD+ (Reduce Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation) program.
The nature, sequence and duration of professional activities of Emergency Medical Service providers: An observational study to evaluate quality of care using the steps in the EMS care process as described by the SPART model
Authors: Dercksen Bert , Struys Michel M. R. F. , Paans Wolter , Cnossen Fokie
Published: December 2024

Background

The quality of care given by EMS staff is in part monitored by routine review of deployment reports that the providers must complete after each deployment. The assessment consists of determining whether a deployment was performed in a medically correct manner and thus whether the clinical reasoning process was appropriate. The time used during the deployment is also measured, as there are often time limits for performing different parts of the deployment and these must be adhered to. One might question whether measuring the time spent really gives insight into the quality of care, and if it might not be more useful to see how that time was spent. We therefore conceived a study to map the EMS care process and evaluate this process in relation to the time used.

Methods

We used a focused ethnographic study design. Video recordings of EMS deployments in combination with semi-structured interviews of the EMS providers involved, were thematically analysed. This led to insights into the EMS care process and the embedded clinical reasoning. By categorising the professional activities we identified we were able to define a model that describes in general the EMS care process. We reported the first part of this study in which we developed this so called SPART model in a separate paper. In this second part of the study we determined the execution time within a deployment and measured the frequency of occurrence and the duration of the identified activities. We interpreted the operational content and the time variables both qualitatively and quantitatively. We also determined the distribution of activities over the three deployment operational periods (response, on-scene and transport period).

Results

Using the SPART model, we gained insight into the different activities’ nature, order, and duration. We could qualitatively judge the effectiveness of the clinical reasoning process, i.e., the quality of care delivered. Generally, the studied cases were followable, and the clinical reasoning process was medically logical. The diagnostic process sometimes continued after the clinical decision, which was not medically logical. Remarkably, this never changed the clinical decision. Although this could negatively affect the quality of care, we found no clinical evidence that this was the case.

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrated that the quality of care in EMS can be measured by using the SPART model to evaluate EMS deployments. We concluded that qualitative judgment was more important than quantitative evaluation. Interpreting the order of different activities led to the clearest understanding of the clinical reasoning process. It was concluded that knowledge of the exact time used per activity and, in total, had the least impact on understanding the clinical reasoning process.
Exploring the potential antimalarial properties, safety profile, and phytochemical composition of Mesua ferrea Linn.
Authors: Konyanee Atthaphon , Chaniad Prapaporn , Phuwajaroanpong Arisara , Plirat Walaiporn , Viriyavejakul Parnpen , Septama Abdi Wira , Punsawad Chuchard
Published: December 2024

The increased resistance of Plasmodium falciparum to artemisinin and its partner drugs poses a serious challenge to global malaria control and elimination programs. This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic potential of Mesua ferrea Linn., a medicinal plant, as a source for novel antimalarial compounds. In this study, we conducted in vitro assays to evaluate the antimalarial activity and cytotoxicity of crude extracts derived from M. ferrea L. leaves and branches. Subsequently, the most promising extracts were subjected to assessments of their antimalarial efficacy and acute oral toxicity tests in mouse models. Furthermore, selected crude extracts underwent gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis to identify their phytochemical compositions. Our findings revealed that the ethanolic extract of M. ferrea L. branches (EMFB) exhibited high antimalarial activity, with an IC50 value of 4.54 μg/mL, closely followed by the ethanolic extract of M. ferrea L. leaves (EMFL), with an IC50 value of 6.76 μg/mL. Conversely, the aqueous extracts of M. ferrea L. branches (AMFB) and leaves (AMFL) exhibited weak and inactive activity, respectively. The selected extracts, EMFB and EMFL, demonstrated significant dose-dependent parasitemia suppression, reaching a maximum of 62.61% and 54.48% at 600 mg/kg body weight, respectively. Furthermore, the acute oral toxicity test indicated no observable toxicity at a dosage of 2,000 mg/kg body weight for both extracts. GC-MS analysis revealed abundant compounds in the EMFB, such as oleamide, cis-β-farnesene, alloaromadendrene, physcion, palmitic acid, 5-hydroxymethylfurfural, and 4H-pyran-4-one, 2,3-dihydro-3,5-dihydroxy-6-methyl-, while the EMFL contained friedelin, friedelinol, betulin, β-caryophyllene, oleamide, and 5-hydroxymethylfurfural. Notably, both extracts shared several phytochemical compounds, including 4H-pyran-4-one, 2,3-dihydro-3,5-dihydroxy-6-methyl-, 5-hydroxymethylfurfural, α-copaene, cyperene, β-caryophyllene, alloaromadendrene, palmitic acid, ethyl palmitate, and oleamide. Additionally, further study is needed to isolate and characterize these bioactive compounds from M. ferrea L. leaves and branches for their potential utilization as scaffolds in the development of novel antimalarial drugs.
Bundesliga team values: Deciphering the impact of performance and economics
Authors: Ulas Efehan , Deutscher Christian
Published: December 2024

Despite experiencing a dip during the COVID-19 pandemic, football remains a robust multi-billion-euro industry. The accurate prediction of team values holds immense significance for teams, investors, and other stakeholders. In this research, we delve into the determinants of German Bundesliga team values, encompassing performance-based metrics, macroeconomic indicators, and demographic statistics. Leveraging machine learning and dynamical linear methods, we construct a comprehensive model for Bundesliga team values. Our findings not only illuminate team performance on and off the field but also offer vital insights to guide decisions and navigate the complexities of the fiercely competitive football industry.
Exploring performance of athletic individuals: Tying athletic behaviors and big-five personality traits with sports performance
Authors: Li Qiong , Xiao Duo , Zeng Qiong
Published: December 2024

The paper aims to investigate the interplay of sports athletic behavior between big-five personality traits and sports performance in China. The study acquired cross-sectional responses on the questionnaire from 260 Chinese sports athletes, including males and females. Fuzzy analysis techniques were applied to examine the results of the study. Fuzzy TODIM assessment, and fuzzy decision analysis technique applied to draw inferences. The results established that big-five personality traits are significant predictors of athletic behaviors; however, neuroticism is found to be insignificant. The interplay of athletic behavior of sports athletes is also significant in sports game performance. The role of athletic behavior in the nexus between personality traits and sports performance is also significant. Gender also has a significant role in behavior and sports performance. Chinese educational institutional and sports administrations should strive to encourage psychological training programs are enhance mental resilience for effective performance. Valuing sports opportunities for females to shape gender equality would promote sports performance at the school and college levels. Therefore, policy makers need to take such initiatives for a physically academic grooming of the individuals.
Partially dissociative role of the left inferior frontal gyrus and left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex in reasoning
Authors: Fresnoza Shane , Büsche Kjell , Kern Maximilian , Christova Monica , Freigang Sascha , Mosbacher Jochen A. , Grabner Roland H. , Ischebeck Anja
Published: December 2024

Reasoning is the ability to formulate inferences or conclusions from available information. The two major types, deductive and inductive, are thought to rely on distinct cognitive mechanisms and recruit separate brain areas. Neuroimaging studies yield mixed results; some found the left inferior frontal gyrus (IFG) activations for deductive reasoning and the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) for inductive reasoning. This assumption was put to the test in the present study. In two double-blinded, sham-controlled experiments, high-definition transcranial direct current stimulation (HD-tDCS) was used to systematically explore the left IFG’s and DLPFC’s causal role in deductive and inductive reasoning. Participants with no formal training in logic judged deductive and inductive arguments before and after 10 minutes of anodal, cathodal, or sham tDCS of the left IFG (Experiment 1, n = 20) or left DLPFC (Experiment 2, n = 21). Left IFG anodal tDCS impairs reaction times (RTs) for easy categorical (p = < .001) and propositional (p = .025) deductive arguments and the accuracy for easy inductive propositional arguments (p = .003). Meanwhile, regardless of the active stimulation conditions, left DLPFC tDCS shortens RTs (anodal: p = < .001, cathodal: p = .014) and increases accuracy (anodal: p = .029, cathodal: p = .001) for difficult categorical inductive arguments, but decreases accuracy (anodal: p = .027, cathodal: p = < .001) for difficult propositional inductive arguments. The overall results showed a partial dissociation of the left frontal lobe areas subserving the two types of reasoning and argument difficulty-dependent stimulation effects. This study extends knowledge of the neural basis of reasoning and hopefully inspires interventions that could augment reasoning impairments associated with normal aging and brain lesions.
Photobiomodulation in post menopause genitourinary syndrome—Study protocol for a randomized, double-blind, controlled clinical protocol
Authors: Pereira Silvia Regina dos Santos , Mesquita-Ferrari Raquel Agnelli , Salviatto Luciana Toledo Costa , Bezerra Cícero Dayves da Silva , Dalapria Vanessa , Mello Erika da Silva , Almeida-Lopes Luciana , Bossini Paulo Sérgio , Gonçalves Marcela Leticia Leal , Deana Alessandro Melo
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM) defines a set of symptoms associated with an estrogen deficit involving alterations in organs genitourinary and that results in several urinary, genital, and sexual alterations. Brazilian women live about a third of their life after menopause, where hormonal changes occur along with clinical manifestations, characterized by vaginal and vulvar dryness, burning sensation, discomfort, vulvovaginal irritation, lack of lubrication, dyspareunia and urinary incontinence. Fractionated photothermolysis and radiofrequency systems, alone or in combination were tested to improve GSM.

Objective

The goal of this study is to elaborate a protocol to evaluate the clinical response of patients with symptoms of GSM after the application of photobiomodulation in the vulvar region.

Method

In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study protocol, women over 50 years of age who are in the postmenopausal period (amenorrhea for at least 12 months, with no pathology involved) with one or more symptoms of GSM will be randomly divided into two groups. The treatment group (n = 30) will receive four consecutive applications, weekly, using DMC laser diode (λ = 808 nm), 4J per point, 100mW of power, 1,016W/cm2, 8 sites in the vulvar region, The Placebo Group (n = 30) will be handled as treated, but with the laser turned off. The quality of life will be assessed using female sexual functioning index (FSFI-6), urinary incontinence questionnaire (ICIQ-SF), Quality of life will be analyzed using the female sexual functioning index (FSFI-6). The intensity of menopausal symptoms will be evaluated using a visual analogue scale (VAS), the vulvo vaginal atrophy will be measured by the Vaginal Health Index (VHI). Also, the vaginal temperature will be measured using a thermal camera, the pressure of the pelvic floor force (vaginal dynamometer) and a 1-hour Pad Test will be performed to quantify the urinary loss. With this procedure, we intend to obtain an overall better life quality and diminished symptoms in women with GSM. All assessments will be performed prior to the first irradiation and after the last one.

Trial registration

This protocol is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov under the number NCT05557799.