bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measuring life satisfaction of self-help groups: Role of perceived social support and social empowerment
Authors: Suvarna Suraksha , Kumar Satish , Koodamara Navin Kumar
Published: January 2025

Background This study was designed to investigate the mediation effects of social empowerment (SE) in the relationship between perceived social support (PSS) and life satisfaction (LS) in women self-help group members. Also, this research attempted to understand the moderating effect of decision making (DM) and external communication (EC) on the relationship between the constructs. Methods To achieve the above objective, the primary data were collected from the self-help group women members by using an existing scale. In this survey, 333 participants who are members of self-help group completed the questionnaire and considered for the study. The study is non-experimental and survey-based, with no interventions or manipulations involved. In line with ethical guidelines, we obtained informed consent directly from each respondent before their participation. Conclusion The path coefficient values, t-statistics and P-Values confirmed the positive relationship between PSS->LS; PSS->SE & SE->LS in women self-group members. PLS structural equation modelling estimated by the bootstrap method revealed that SE partially mediates the relationship between PSS & LS. With regard to the interaction effect, the slope analysis and f2 effect size confirmed the moderating effect of EC in the relationship between PSS -> LS & SE -> LS.
Optimizing machine learning performance for medical imaging analyses in low-resource environments: The prospects of CNN-based Feature Extractors
Authors: Isewon Itunuoluwa , Alagbe Emmanuel , Oyelade Jelili
Published: January 2025

Background Machine learning (ML) algorithms have generally enhanced the speed and accuracy of image-based diagnosis, and treatment strategy planning, compared to the traditional approach of interpreting medical images by experienced radiologists. Convolutional neural networks (CNNs) have been particularly useful in this regard. However, training CNNs come with significant time and computational cost necessitating the development of efficient solutions for deploying CNNs in low-resource environments. This study investigates the use of pre-trained CNNs as feature extractors in medical imaging analyses and highlights the key considerations to be taken into account when implementing these extractors. Methods Eight medical imaging datasets covering several diseases (e.g. breast cancer, brain tumor and malaria) were used. Five ML algorithms (k-nearest neighbours, logistic regression, naïve Bayes, random forests and light gradient boosting machine) were implemented with three pre-trained CNN models (VGG-16, EfficientNet-B0, and ResNet-50). These pre-trained models were deployed as feature extractors fed into the classifiers for image classification tasks. The performance of these classifiers was assessed using a ten-fold cross validation scheme with metrics such as accuracy, F1 score, specificity, sensitivity, AUC-ROC, Matthews’ correlation coefficient (MCC), precision, time and space complexities. Results From our experiments, we found a general improvement in ML models’ performance after feature extraction (FE). Of the three FE models tested,EfficientNet-B0 performed best in terms of predicitve performance i.e. accuracy, specificity, sensitivity, AUC-ROC, MCC, F1 score, and precision. However, VGG-16 had the best performance in terms of time and memory efficiency. Our results identify two conditions necessary for the optimal performance of the FE models; (i) balanced datasets - a set where classes or categories are represented in approximately equal proportions, (ii) big data sets - adequate number of objects for training and testing. Interestingly, the performance of the ML models did not correlate with the number of class labels i.e. the type of classification task whether binary or multi-class had no influence in the models’ performance. Of the five algorithms investigated, logistic regression benefitted the most from the adoption of the feature extractors. Conclusion Our results confirm that the use of CNNs as feature extractors offer an effective balance between high performance and computational efficiency, making them well-suited for use in low-resource environments.
Research on the cascade modulation method for star position simulation in a weak starlight simulator
Authors: Wu Linghao , Zhang Yu , Li Yihuan , Sheng Lan , Xia Yuxin , Zhang Siqi , Gu Siwen
Published: January 2025

In order to surmount the challenge wherein the gray-scale resolution of liquid crystal on silicon (LCOS) imaging within a faint starlight simulator acts as a limiting factor for the precision of stellar position correction, this paper introduces a design approach for a cascaded architecture tailored to faint starlight simulators. Through the implementation of an isometric mapping technique that maps the dimming LCOS onto the surface of the imaging LCOS, the dimensionality of gray-scale adjustment for the imaging LCOS is augmented, thereby enhancing the accuracy of simulated stellar position correction. Initially, a stellar position cascaded modulation architecture is meticulously constructed to investigate the pivotal factors that impact the gray-scale resolution of the imaging LCOS within the framework of the cascaded modulation architecture. Subsequently, the optimization protocol for the concentrator system embedded within the cascaded modulation architecture is formulated. Leveraging the simulated annealing algorithm, the multi-parameter freeform surface of the concentrator system undergoes synchronous optimization. Finally, the simulation outcomes derived from the cascaded modulation architecture both prior to and subsequent to optimization clearly demonstrate that upon the implementation of the novel architecture, the accuracy of simulated stellar position correction experiences a notable enhancement of 62%.
Enhancement of the thermo-optic phase modulation efficiency in silicon nitride waveguides by incorporating an embedded strip within a planar polymer waveguide
Authors: Lee Eun-Su , Chun Kwon-Wook , Jin Jinung , Oh Min-Cheol
Published: January 2025

Silicon nitride (SiN) has emerged as an essential material in silicon photonics due to its broadband transparency, low propagation loss, and high power handling capacity. Despite these advantages, implementing efficient phase modulators (PMs) in SiN waveguides remains challenging due to the low thermo-optic (TO) coefficient. Traditional SiN TO-PMs often require high driving power, hindering their integration into compact, low-power photonic integrated circuits (PICs). In this study, we propose a novel approach to enhance the TO effect of SiN waveguides by incorporating polymer planar waveguides with superior TO properties. By embedding a SiN strip within a polymeric planar waveguide, we have achieved a significant reduction in the modulation power required for the SiN PMs. Mach-Zehnder modulator with the embedded SiN strip demonstrated a Pπ of 42.7 mW and a response time of 110 µs. This method simplifies fabrication, requiring only a single stepper lithography process without precise alignment between layers. This advancement paves the way for low-power, high-efficiency phase modulators in SiN photonics, with potential applications extending to the visible spectrum.
Polarization-dependent control of ionization pathways in atomic strong-field nonsequential double ionization
Authors: Xin Peipei , Gao Feng , Lu Xiaolong , Qiao Xiaoxiao , Li Na , Liu Jun , Wang Zifeng
Published: January 2025

Utilizing a classical ensemble model (CEM), we have studied the rescattering behavior of quasi-free tunneling electron and correlation dynamics of electron pair during nonsequential double ionization (NSDI) of Xe atoms induced by a counter-rotating, two-color, elliptically polarized (TCEP) laser field. Our numerical results reveal that the momentum of the first tunneling electron is predominantly located in the third quadrant of momentum spectrum, whereas the momentum spectrum of the second electron presents a triangular structure along the direction of the negative vector potential of driving field. This phenomenon occurs because the first electron has greater emission kinetic energy than the second one, rendering the latter more sensitive to the influence exerted by the electric field vector potential. Moreover, we also observe that increasing ellipticity significantly alters ion momentum distributions by reducing weights at non-zero peaks, which indicates a weakened electron correlation. The large ellipticity field progressively decreases recollision energy, reflected in broadening delays between recollision and double ionization time, ultimately modifying ionization pathways and correlation features of electron pair.
Generation of multipartite entanglement in a cavity-magnomechanical system
Authors: Yang Zhen , Xiong Biao , Zhao Chengsong , Zhou Ling
Published: January 2025

Generating multipartite entanglement is always a popular research field in quantum information processing and quantum optics. In this paper, we propose a scheme to realize all bipartite entanglements and the genuine tripartite entanglement among photon, magnon, and phonon modes in a cavity-magnomechanical system. The center-of-mass motion of a yttrium iron garnet sphere couples to the magnon and constitutes photon-magnon-phonon tripartite interaction. By modulating the detuning between the cavity (magnon) mode and the driven field, we can obtain the optimal photon-phonon entanglement or magnon-phonon entanglement. The genuine tripartite entanglement can be prepared through a suitable detuning. We compare the different entanglement cases with and without effective direct cavity-magnon coupling. The results indicate that the photon-magnon entanglement can be enhanced by the effective cavity-magnon coupling strength, and all bipartite entanglements show greater robustness against the thermal phonon number. This investigation should be useful for phonon-involved multipartite quantum information processing and quantum precision measurement.
Two-photon nanolithography of sub-micrometer thickness microlenses designed by NPCC assisted Rayleigh Sommerfeld diffraction integral
Authors: Meng Chao , Wang Qi , Lamon Simone , Guo Yuting , Huang Zihao , Zhang Qiming , Gu Min , Yu Haoyi
Published: January 2025

Recent development of artificial neural networks (ANNs) and inverse design methods have demonstrated their prospective significance for planar diffractive lens design, with a plethora of optical lenses designed for wavelengths ranging from visible to Thz wavelengths. However, previous research to design planner diffractive lenses only considers the maximum intensity in the focus area or its derivatives as the optimization function, leaving the intensity outside the focus area unconsidered. We proposed and investigated a two-dimensional (2D) physics-driven ANN method assisted by the negative Pearson correlation coefficient (NPCC) to design microlenses with varied focusing distances, which takes the entire 2D intensity distribution at the focus plane as an optimization function. Taking advantage of 3D two-photon nanolithographic technology, sub-micrometer thickness microlenses with varied focusing lengths are designed and fabricated, achieving an average focusing efficiency of around 35%, and an average focusing spot size of about 1 µm. Furthermore, a microlens array (19 by 19 microlenses with a total size of 4 mm2) with a curved focusing plane was fabricated and integrated into a CMOS sensor, achieving direct object imaging under incoherent white light illumination. Our results demonstrate that the NPCC is a very useful optimization function for designing planar diffractive lenses, and the use of NPCC in ANNs is of great potential for the future design of functional diffractive optical elements in optics and nanophotonics.
Multi-Milliwatt Average Power Two-Colour Air-Plasma Terahertz Source at 100 kHz Repetition Rate
Authors: Löscher Robin , Schroeder Malte , Vogel Tim , Omar Alan , Hasso Adam , Hoberg Claudius , Havenith-Newen Martina , Saraceno Clara
Published: January 2025

Ultrafast THz transients with large spectral bandwidths are commonly generated in the two-colour air-plasma scheme, typically driven by high-pulse-energy laser sources, operating at low repetition rates up to a few kHz. The low repetition rate of these sources is a strong limiting factor to reach high dynamic ranges in measurements involving long integration times or multi-dimensional scans. The advent of high-power Yb-based laser sources in combination with nonlinear temporal compression schemes opens the door to air-plasma THz sources at significantly higher repetition rates up to hundreds of kHz and beyond. In this study, we investigate for the first time repetition rate scaling in the two-colour filament plasma scheme at repetition rates ranging from 1 kHz up to 100 kHz. We study the influence of repetition rate on THz yield and observe a correlation between the decrease of the optical-to-THz conversion efficiency and the gas density depletion in the filamentation region, that we measure using interferometry. The experimentally observed optical-to-THz conversion efficiencies are in approximate agreement with a simple one-dimensional photocurrent model we developed. These findings set the foundation for future repetition rate scaling experiments towards the MHz region, using the broadband and affordable two-colour air-plasma scheme. At 100 kHz, we generate THz radiation with a maximum average power of 2.8 mW and peak electric fields reaching 165 kV/cm. Using electro-optic sampling, we detect frequencies up to 23 THz showing the broadband nature of the source. This source is a promising alternative both for future linear and nonlinear ultra-broadband spectroscopic investigations at greatly accelerated measurement times.
Nb-FAR-1: A key developmental protein affects lipid droplet accumulation and cuticle formation in Nippostrongylus brasiliensis
Authors: Qi Wenmin , Shen Fei , Wang Chuyue , Wen Juan , Pan Xi , Zhao Zhongying , Xiao Lihua , Feng Yaoyu , Yuan Dongjuan
Published: January 2025

Fatty acid and retinol binding proteins (FARs) are lipid-binding protein that may be associated with modulating nematode pathogenicity to their hosts. However, the functional mechanism of FARs remains elusive. We attempt to study the function of a certain FAR that may be important in the development of Nippostrongylus brasiliensis. Nb-FAR-1 was highly expressed throughout developmental stages by RNA-seq data and qPCR analyses, and Nb-FAR-1 was a secretory protein and abundant in the excretory-secretory products. Nb-FAR-1 could bind fatty acids and retinol. Fatty acid pattern of parasitic adults was more similar to rat intestine than to free-living L3s, indicating that N. brasiliensis may be dependent on the host to obtain fatty acids. Lentivirus-mediated RNAi was performed on L3s, resulting in a reduction in the expression of Nb-far-1 gene. Furthermore, these RNAi effects could be maintained in several generations. The offspring L3s in Nb-far-1 RNAi group had a reduction in lipid droplets within the subcuticle and the swelling of the perioral epidermis, accompanied with down-regulated expression of enzymes in amino acid and glycerolipid metabolism and glycometabolism for growth by RNA-seq data. Adults in Nb-far-1 RNAi group had the crumpled epidermis loosely attached to the basal membrane of body surface and the breakage of mouth epidermis, accompanied with a decrease in adult egg-shedding and an appearance of abnormal eggs. In vitro culture of eggs showed decreased efficiency of egg hatchability and larval development in the Nb-far-1 RNAi group. Transcriptomic analysis showed that interference with Nb-far-1 expression induced downregulated expression of major sperm protein and serpin for reproduction, and collagen for epidermis formation in adults, most of which were relatively high expression in adults but low expression in L3s in the WT group. Thus, Nb-FAR-1 may affect the reproduction, growth, and development of N. brasiliensis by regulating the level of lipids.
Characteristics of ChatGPT users from Germany: Implications for the digital divide from web tracking data
Authors: Kacperski Celina , Ulloa Roberto , Bonnay Denis , Kulshrestha Juhi , Selb Peter , Spitz Andreas
Published: January 2025

A major challenge of our time is reducing disparities in access to and effective use of digital technologies, with recent discussions highlighting the role of AI in exacerbating the digital divide. We examine user characteristics that predict usage of the AI-powered conversational agent ChatGPT. We combine behavioral and survey data in a web tracked sample of N = 1376 German citizens to investigate differences in ChatGPT activity (usage, visits, and adoption) during the first 11 months from the launch of the service (November 30, 2022). Guided by a model of technology acceptance (UTAUT-2), we examine the role of socio-demographics commonly associated with the digital divide in ChatGPT activity and explore further socio-political attributes identified via stability selection in Lasso regressions. We confirm that lower age and higher education affect ChatGPT usage, but do not find that gender or income do. We find full-time employment and more children to be barriers to ChatGPT activity. Using a variety of social media was positively associated with ChatGPT activity. In terms of political variables, political knowledge and political self-efficacy as well as some political behaviors such as voting, debating political issues online and offline and political action online were all associated with ChatGPT activity, with online political debating and political self-efficacy negatively so. Finally, need for cognition and communication skills such as writing, attending meetings, or giving presentations, were also associated with ChatGPT engagement, though chairing/organizing meetings was negatively associated. Our research informs efforts to address digital disparities and promote digital literacy among underserved populations by presenting implications, recommendations, and discussions on ethical and social issues of our findings.
High-resolution isotope dietary analysis of Mesolithic and Neolithic humans from Franchthi Cave, Greece
Authors: Martinoia Valentina , Papathanasiou Anastasia , Talamo Sahra , MacDonald Rebecca , Richards Michael P.
Published: January 2025

Franchthi Cave, in the Greek Peloponnese, is a well-known Paleolithic, Mesolithic and Neolithic site, with several human burials. In many parts of Europe there is clear evidence from archaeological and isotopic studies for a diet change between the Mesolithic and Neolithic periods. This is especially the case in coastal contexts where there is often a shift from predominantly marine food diets in the Mesolithic to terrestrial (presumably domesticated) foods in the Neolithic. However, at Franchthi Cave previous isotope research did not show changes in diets between these two periods, and also showed relatively little input from marine foods in diets in either time period, despite the coastal location of the site and the presence of marine shellfish and fish, including tuna. High-resolution compound specific amino acid isotope analysis reported here from humans from the Lower Mesolithic and Middle Neolithic periods confirms the previous bulk isotope results in showing little or no consumption of marine foods in either time period. However, it is important to note that our isotopic sample does not come from episodes when tuna is abundant and therefore do not cover the whole range of known diets from the site. Conversely, in our sample there is some evidence of marine food consumption (likely seaweed) by sheep in the Neolithic period. We also report here five direct AMS radiocarbon dates for the five analyzed humans from the site.
The impact of health risk communication on self-perceived health and worry of targeted groups: Lessons from the Swedish COVID-19 response
Authors: Rickardsson Jonna , Mellander Charlotta
Published: January 2025

Background

The Swedish COVID-19 strategy aimed to protect vulnerable groups through targeted measures, categorizing individuals aged 70 and above as high-risk. This study examines the impact of such group-based risk assessments on subjective health and virus-related concerns among older adults.

Methods

We analyzed survey data from the SOM Institute for 68- to 71-year-olds in 2019 (N = 684) and 2020 (N = 726). Using ordered logit regression, we compared perceived health and virus-related concerns between individuals just below (68–69 years) and just above (70–71 years) the high-risk age threshold, controlling for demographic factors.

Results

In 2020, 70-year-olds reported significantly lower perceived health compared to their 69-year-old peers, a difference not observed in 2019. Furthermore, 70-year-olds exhibited significantly higher virus-related concerns than their slightly younger counterparts. These patterns persisted when expanding the analysis to include individuals aged 68 and 71.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that the Swedish COVID-19 strategy, while aimed at protecting individuals aged 70 and over, may have inadvertently increased perceived vulnerability and health concerns within this group. Conversely, those just below the high-risk age threshold reported better health and lower virus-related concerns, highlighting potential unintended psychological consequences of age-based risk communication.
Artificial intelligence applied in identifying left ventricular walls in myocardial perfusion scintigraphy images: Pilot study
Authors: Nogueira Solange Amorim , Luz Fernanda Ambrogi B. , Camargo Thiago Fellipe O. , Oliveira Julio Cesar S. , Campos Neto Guilherme Carvalho , Carvalhaes Felipe Brazao F. , Reis Marcio Rodrigues C. , Santos Paulo Victor , Mendes Giovanna Souza , Loureiro Rafael Maffei , Tornieri Daniel , Pacheco Viviane M. Gomes , Coimbra Antonio Paulo , Calixto Wesley Pacheco
Published: January 2025

This paper proposes the use of artificial intelligence techniques, specifically the nnU-Net convolutional neural network, to improve the identification of left ventricular walls in images of myocardial perfusion scintigraphy, with the objective of improving the diagnosis and treatment of coronary artery disease. The methodology included data collection in a clinical environment, followed by data preparation and analysis using the 3D Slicer Platform for manual segmentation, and subsequently, the application of artificial intelligence models for automated segmentation, focusing on the efficiency of identifying the walls of the left ventricular. A total of 83 clinical routine exams were collected, each exam containing 50 slices, which is 4,150 images. The results demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed artificial intelligence model, with a Dice coefficient of 87% and an average Intersection over Union of 0.8, reflecting high agreement with the manual segmentations produced by experts and surpassing traditional interpretation methods. The internal and external validation of the model corroborates its future applicability in real clinical scenarios, offering a new perspective in the analysis of myocardial perfusion scintigraphy images. The integration of artificial intelligence into the process of analyzing myocardial perfusion scintigraphy images represents a significant advancement in diagnostic accuracy, promoting substantial improvements in the interpretation of medical images, and establishing a foundation for future research and clinical applications, such as artifact correction.
Spontaneous oxycodone withdrawal disrupts sleep, diurnal, and electrophysiological dynamics in rats
Authors: Gulledge Michael , Carlezon William A. , McHugh R. Kathryn , Kinard Elizabeth A. , Prerau Michael J. , Chartoff Elena H.
Published: January 2025

Opioid dependence is defined by an aversive withdrawal syndrome upon drug cessation that can motivate continued drug-taking, development of opioid use disorder, and precipitate relapse. An understudied but common opioid withdrawal symptom is disrupted sleep, reported as both insomnia and daytime sleepiness. Despite the prevalence and severity of sleep disturbances during opioid withdrawal, there is a gap in our understanding of their interactions. The goal of this study was to establish an in-depth, temporal signature of spontaneous oxycodone withdrawal effects on the diurnal composition of discrete sleep stages and the dynamic spectral properties of the electroencephalogram (EEG) signal in male rats. We continuously recorded EEG and electromyography (EMG) signals for 8 d of spontaneous withdrawal after a 14-d escalating-dose oxycodone regimen (0.5–8.0 mg/kg, 2×d; SC). During withdrawal, there was a profound loss (peaking on days 2–3) and gradual return of diurnal structure in sleep, body temperature, and locomotor activity, as well as decreased sleep and wake bout durations dependent on lights on/off. Withdrawal was associated with significant alterations in the slope of the aperiodic 1/f component of the EEG power spectrum, an established biomarker of arousal level. Early in withdrawal, NREM exhibited an acute flattening and return to baseline of both low (1–4 Hz) and high (15–50 Hz) frequency components of the 1/f spectrum. These findings suggest temporally dependent withdrawal effects on sleep, reflecting the complex way in which the allostatic forces of opioid withdrawal impinge upon sleep and diurnal processes. These foundational data based on continuous tracking of vigilance state, sleep stage composition, and spectral EEG properties provide a detailed construct with which to form and test hypotheses on the mechanisms of opioid-sleep interactions.
Woody species diversity, structure and community distribution along environmental gradients of Seqela Dry Afromontane forest in Northwestern Ethiopia
Authors: Birhanu Liyew , Moges Getaneh , Amsalu Nigussie , Balzter Heiko
Published: January 2025

Dry evergreen Afromontane forests are severely threatened due to the expansion of agriculture and overgrazing by livestock. The objective of this study was to investigate the composition of woody species, structure, regeneration status and plant communities in Seqela forest, as well as the relationship between plant community types and environmental variables. Systematic sampling was used to collect vegetation and environmental data from 52 (20 m x 20 m) (400 m2) plots. Density, Diameter at Breast Height (DBH), basal area, frequency, and importance value index (IVI) of woody species were computed to characterize the vegetation structure of the forest. Agglomerative hierarchical cluster analysis and Canonical Correspondence Analysis (CCA) with R software were used to identify plant communities and analyse the relationship between plant community types and environmental variables, respectively. A total of 68 woody plant species belonging to 63 genera and 44 families were identified. The Shannon diversity index and evenness values of the study area were 2.12 and 0.92, respectively. The total basal area and density of woody species were 27.4 m2 ha−1 and 1079.3 individual ha−1, respectively. The most frequent woody species in the Seqela forest included Albizia gummifera (51.92%), Croton macrostachyus (44.23%), Olinia rochetiana and Teclea nobilis (36.54%). Additionally, the most dominant species, as indicated by their importance value index (IVI), were Erythrina brucei (IVI = 11.24), Prunus africana (IVI=8.68), and Croton macrostachyus (IVI=7.38). Four plant community types were identified: Albizia gummifera - Ekebergia capensis, Prunus africana - Croton macrostachyus, Vachellia abyssinica - Dombeya torrida and Schefflera abyssinica - Teclea nobilis. The CCA results showed that the variation of species distribution and plant community formation were significantly (P < 0.05) related to altitude, organic matter, aspect, slope and soil available phosphorus. The regeneration status assessment of the forest revealed a good regeneration status, which was linked to diverse and abundant seed bank in the soil can ensure a continuous supply of seeds for regeneration; therefore, it is recommended to implement periodic soil seed bank assessments to monitor seed diversity and abundance and inform targeted conservation actions.
Strategies to reduce hyperglycemia-related anxiety in elite athletes with type 1 diabetes: A qualitative analysis
Authors: Katz Alexandra , Shulkin Aidan , Fortier Marc-André , Yardley Jane E , Kichler Jessica , Housni Asmaa , Talbo Meryem K. , Rabasa-Lhoret Rémi , Brazeau Anne-Sophie
Published: January 2025

Objective

Managing blood glucose levels is challenging for elite athletes with type 1 diabetes (T1D) as competition can cause unpredictable fluctuations. While fear of hypoglycemia during physical activity is well documented, research on hyperglycemia-related anxiety (HRA) is limited. HRA refers to the heightened fear that hyperglycemia-related symptoms will impair functioning. This study investigates current strategies employed to mitigate HRA during competition and the development of alternative approaches.

Research design and methods

Elite athletes with TID, aged >14 who self-reported HRA during competition were recruited. Elite athletes were defined as individuals exercising >10 hours per week whose athletic performance has achieved the highest competition level. 60 to 90-minute virtual semi-structured interviews were analyzed using an Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis.

Results

Ten elite athletes with T1D (average age 25 ± 3 years; T1D duration 12 ± 8 years; number of competitions per year 27 ± 19; training time per week 12 ± 6 hours) reported the strategies they currently use to mitigate HRA. These strategies include managing insulin and nutrition intake, embracing social support networks, using technology, practicing relaxation techniques, establishing routines, performing pre-competition aerobic exercise, and maintaining adequate sleep hygiene. Several additional approaches that could be implemented were identified including establishing targeted support networks, developing peer-reviewed resources on HRA, ensuring support teams have sufficient tools, and improving existing technology.

Conclusions

Elite athletes with T1D use physiological and psychological strategies to mitigate HRA during competition. This finding highlights the need for increased support and education for these athletes, and advancements in technology. A multidisciplinary approach involving healthcare professionals, athletic staff, and peer mentors could help integrate personalized anxiety management and diabetes care strategies into training regimens, enhancing both mental resilience and performance outcomes for athletes with T1D.
Safety and effectiveness of an herbal decoction (modified Saengmaeksan) in hypertensive patients: Protocol for a real-world prospective observational study
Authors: Cho Nahyun , Moon Hobin , Shin Kyung-Min , Kang Byoung-Kab , Leem Jungtae , Yang Changsop
Published: January 2025

Objective

Hypertension, a common chronic disease, often leads to serious complications. While conventional management relies on antihypertensive drugs, which can cause side effects and adherence issues, alternative treatments like herbal medicine are gaining attention. This study examines the efficacy and safety of modified Saengmaeksan, an East Asian herbal remedy, in treating hypertension.

Methods

This single-arm, prospective, observational study will be conducted at Kyunghee Bichedam Korean Medicine Clinic from October 23, 2023 to August 30, 2024, enrolling 30 hypertensive patients. Over 12 weeks, participants will undergo 4 visits, receiving modified Saengmaeksan twice daily for 8 weeks, with a subsequent 4-week follow-up. Primary outcome is the change in systolic blood pressure from the baseline to week 8. Secondary outcomes include diastolic blood pressure changes, radial artery tonometry, and quality of life evaluations. Safety assessments will include monitoring hematologic parameters and adverse events. Data will be analyzed using an ANCOVA model for adjusting confounders.

Discussion

Modified Saengmaeksan has shown potential for lowering blood pressure in clinical settings, supported by animal and cell studies. However, human studies are scarce. This research will employ radial artery tonometry to analyze blood pressure comprehensively, exploring Saengmaeksan’s hemodynamic effects. The study’s goal is to support the approval of modified Saengmaeksan as a hypertension treatment by the South Korean Food and Drug Administration and to promote the industrialization of traditional herbal medicine in managing hypertension. The findings will provide essential data for future clinical research, aiding in feasibility assessments and sample size determinations for randomized controlled trials.
Home intravenous diuretic administration for heart failure management: A scoping review
Authors: Krauter Morgan B. , McGilton Katherine S. , Patel Stuti S. , Harkness Karen , Colella Tracey J. F.
Published: January 2025

Background

Heart failure (HF) significantly impacts healthcare systems due to high rates of hospital bed utilization and readmission rates. Chronic HF often leads to frequent hospitalizations due to recurrent exacerbations and a decline in patient health status. Intravenous (IV) diuretic administration is essential for treating worsening HF. Emerging strategies include home-based IV diuretic therapy administration; however, limited practical implementation guidance is available. This scoping review aims to summarize the literature on home IV diuretic administration for HF patients, focusing on the interventions’ characteristics, and facilitators and barriers to its implementation.

Methods

This review followed the scoping review framework proposed by Arksey and O’Malley and PRIMSA-ScR. A comprehensive search was conducted across six databases (CINAHL, the Cochrane Library, EMBASE, MEDLINE, PsychINFO and Scopus) and grey literature to identify English studies from inception to April 13, 2024. Two independent reviewers screened articles and resources for inclusion and data was extracted using a form created by the authors in Covidence.

Results

The search yielded 2,049 results, with nine studies meeting the inclusion criteria. Studies varied in design, including feasibility, pilot, observational, and pre/post-intervention evaluations. The majority were conducted in European countries, with sample sizes ranging from 12 to 96 patients receiving home IV diuretics for HF. Key implementation challenges include appropriate patient selection, IV cannulation competency of healthcare providers, and multi-disciplinary and multi-agency collaboration.

Conclusions

Evidence on home IV diuretic administration practices for HF management remains limited. However, this scoping review suggests that commonalities across studies could form the basis for developing standard protocols in outpatient settings. Despite the lack of formal evidence-based guidelines, the findings also suggest that tailored, community-specific approaches and safe infusion guidance documents could enhance the efficacy and scalability of home IV diuretic therapy. Future research should focus on refining these strategies and exploring diuretic escalation methods beyond traditional acute care administration to optimize patient outcomes.
Flexible and modular latent transition analysis—A tutorial using R
Authors: Lund Lisbeth , Ritz Christian
Published: January 2025

Latent transition analysis (LTA) is a useful statistical modelling approach for describe transitions between latent classes over time. LTA may be characterized in terms of prevalence at each time point and through transition probabilities over time. Investigating predictors of these transitions is often of key interest. Currently, LTA can mostly be carried out using commercial and specialized software and only to some limited extent by means of open source statistical software. This tutorial demonstrates a flexible and modular approach for LTA, providing a powerful alternative using R through a combination latent class analysis and multiple logistic regression models. This approach has several advantages from a modelling perspective, as demonstrated through revisiting a previously conducted LTA, published in PLoS ONE recently. In short, results were very similar to the original analysis using commercial software although some additional novel results were also obtained. The proposed alternative approach offers more options in terms of choice of effect measures, model assumptions such as hierarchical structures and covariate adjustment, and differential handling of missing data. R code snippets are provided in the tutorial. A detailed accompanying script is also provided for full reproducibility.
Does financial asset allocation term structure affect audit fees? Evidence from China
Authors: Zhang Chuan , Nie Hongdi
Published: January 2025

The financialization of real enterprises presents a dilemma for China’s economic development. This study examines the impact of the financial asset allocation term structure on audit fees using a sample of Chinese A-share listed companies from 2009 to 2019. It also investigates the mediating role of financial risk and the moderating role of independent director characteristics. The results indicate that higher long-term financial assets is associated with higher audit fees, while short-term financial assets show no significant relationship with audit fees. These findings remain robust after several tests. Financial risk mediates the relationship between long-term financial assets and audit fees. Furthermore, among the characteristics of independent directors, the proportion of female independent directors and those with a financial background negatively moderate the relationship between long-term financial assets and audit fees, while independent directors with an overseas background and academic credentials positively moderate this relationship. Additional analysis reveals that firm size and financing constraints exhibit heterogeneity in their effects. This study contributes to the literature by enhancing our understanding of the factors influencing firms’ financial asset allocation and audit fees, and by expanding the literature on the financial risk and characteristics of independent directors.
Adolescent reports of subjective socioeconomic status: An adequate alternative to parent-reported objective and subjective socioeconomic status?
Authors: Davisson Erin K. , Andrade Fernanda C. , Godwin Jennifer , Hoyle Rick
Published: January 2025

Socioeconomic status (SES) is associated with well-being outcomes across studies; however, there is wide variation in its measurement, particularly in adolescence. One key difference in measures of SES concerns whether participants relay objective information—for example, years of education, household income—or subjective perceptions of socioeconomic status, either with or without reference to others or society. Although parents are often considered the best source of SES information—especially objective SES—within families, interviewing parents within the context of adolescent research is costly, time-consuming, and not always feasible. Given the importance of SES for outcomes in adolescence and cumulative effects over the lifespan, we used data from adolescents (N = 702) and parents (Ns = 664–730) to examine whether adolescent reports of SES serve as reasonable proxies for parent reports of both objective and subjective SES, as well as administrative data assessing family SES and neighborhood SES. Consistent with our hypotheses, adolescents’ reports of subjective SES were moderately correlated with parent reports and administrative data tapping family SES. Moreover, adolescents’ reports of subjective SES predicted adolescent-reported measures of well-being, including mental health, physical health, school performance, problem behavior, and alcohol use to the same degree as or better than parent reports of both subjective and objective SES and administrative data. These findings suggest that adolescent reports of subjective SES—using two different, easily understood measures—can stand in as reasonable alternatives to parent-reported SES and administrative data.
RING finger protein 5 is a key anti-FMDV host factor through inhibition of virion assembly
Authors: Zhang Wei , Li Weiwei , Yang Yang , Cao Weijun , Shao Wenhua , Huang Mengyao , Wang Jiali , Chen Zhitong , Cai Jiantao , Liu Hongyi , Zhao Xiaoyi , Dong Xingyan , Zhou Tingting , Tian Hong , Zhu Zixiang , Yang Fan , Zheng Haixue
Published: January 2025

Foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) are small, icosahedral viruses that cause serious clinical symptoms in livestock. The FMDV VP1 protein is a key structural component, facilitating virus entry. Here, we find that the E3 ligase RNF5 interacts with VP1 and targets it for degradation through ubiquitination at the lys200 of VP1, ultimately inhibiting virus replication. Mutations at this lysine site have been found to increase the replication of FMDV in mice. Importantly, the RNF5 pharmacological activator Analog-1 alleviates disease development in a mouse infection model. Furthermore, RNF5 recognizes the VP1 protein from several picornaviruses, suggesting that targeting RNF5 may be a broad-spectrum antiviral strategy. These findings shed light on the role of the ubiquitin-proteasome system in controlling virus replication, offering potential new strategies for treating viral infections.
Bridging the gap: Strategies for smart city development in Al-Kharj to improve healthcare, education and employment
Authors: Zehri Chokri , Alharithi Mohammed
Published: January 2025

This study examines strategies to transform Al-Kharj region in Saudi Arabia into a smart city, specifically in the healthcare, education and employment (HEE) sectors. Employing a dynamic panel model from 2010 to 2023, encompassing 121 organizations and firms, we examine the influence of investments in infrastructure, technology adoption, sustainability initiatives and citizen engagement on implementing innovative practices in HEE. Our findings underscore the significant impact of these four factors. Additionally, we conducted surveys among policy-makers and residents to pinpoint the challenges hindering the adoption of these strategies. Based on the surveys’ outcomes, we formulate policy implications and recommendations to assist the Al-Kharj region in transitioning to an intelligent city status.
Re-Centring the City. Global Mutations of Socialist Modernity (2020)
Authors: Iacob Miruna
Published: January 2025

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Os gestos didáticos no trabalho de professoras alfabetizadoras no contexto de ensino remoto
Authors: Rezende Garcia-Reis Andreia , Reis Castor Rafaela
Published: January 2025

RESUMO:
Este artigo tem como principal objetivo identificar os gestos didáticos fundadores e específicos (Barros, 2013; Dolz, 2017) de professoras alfabetizadoras, sobretudo nas aulas de Língua Portuguesa, no trabalho com a compreensão de textos, durante o ensino remoto no ano de 2020. Os dados foram gerados a partir de gravações em áudio e vídeo de videoaulas de duas professoras alfabetizadoras de uma escola privada de Minas Gerais, na região sudeste do país, além de entrevistas semiestruturadas com cada uma das professoras. O processo de alfabetização (Soares, 2020; 2021) e ensino da compreensão textual (Brasil, 2018) são compreendidos como um percurso metódico, com base em princípios interacionistas (Bronckart, 2006), de reflexão sobre o sistema de escrita e sobre os objetivos comunicativos dos diversos gêneros textuais que circulam socialmente. Os resultados da investigação revelam que as professoras alfabetizadoras acionam diferentes gestos didáticos, tanto fundadores quanto específicos, para promover a alfabetização das crianças inseridas no ensino remoto, com o objetivo de ensinar os conteúdos planejados e também de organizar o tempo de aula nessa modalidade de ensino. Os gestos encontrados nas aulas analisadas, sobretudo os linguageiros, constituem o trabalho docente em turmas de alfabetização e fazem-se presentes também no ensino presencial.
A Política de Alfabetização para a Rede Estadual de Ensino de Santa Catarina e a Educação de Jovens e Adultos
Authors: Mafra Liliam , Wolff Paim Marilane Maria
Published: January 2025

Os diferentes entendimentos sobre a alfabetização de adultos ao longo da história da educação no Brasil e também no território catarinense é o pano de fundo deste estudo. Nesse cenário, o objetivo do presente artigo é analisar a atual Política de Alfabetização para a Rede Estadual de Ensino de Santa Catarina (PAE SC) e suas possíveis implicações na Educação de Jovens e Adultos (EJA). A partir de uma abordagem qualitativa, desenvolve-se uma pesquisa documental com base na PAE SC e, para fins de complemento, realiza-se uma pesquisa bibliográfica apoiada em autores que versam sobre a alfabetização de adultos. A análise aponta que o texto da política estadual contempla a EJA e enumera ações que alcançam a modalidade de ensino. Por fim, sugere-se uma nova pesquisa com a finalidade de verificar a efetividade das ações planejadas e a concretude da referida política estadual.
Letras móveis na alfabetização
Authors: Miranda Mariana , Montuani Daniela
Published: January 2025

Este artigo apresenta parte dos resultados de uma pesquisa de mestrado que buscou refletir sobre o uso de letras móveis em turmas de alfabetização, a partir da análise do discurso das professoras e da observação das práticas com esse recurso em turmas de 1º ano do Ensino Fundamental. Neste artigo serão apresentadas análises referentes ao conteúdo das entrevistas realizadas com professoras da rede pública de ensino de Belo Horizonte. A análise das falas das docentes revelaram:  (i)  as motivações para o uso de letras móveis em  sala de aula  de aula;  (ii) reflexões sobre as diferenças na escrita com letras móveis e escrita no papel; (iii) uma variedade de  possibilidades de uso de letras móveis em sala de aula, elencando aspectos referentes à materialidade, à frequência de uso e  à variedade das propostas didáticas com esse recurso; e ainda, (iv) os desafios no uso de letras móveis em sala de aula, que perpassam questões que envolvem o acesso ao material, as tensões na gestão da atividade em sala de aula e dificuldades de realização de um planejamento significativo que equilibre as funções lúdicas e didáticas no uso desse recurso.
O ecossistema para aprendizagens no processo de alfabetização
Authors: Parcianello de Almeida Fabiane Aparecida , Backes Luciana
Published: January 2025

O artigo apresenta parte da pesquisa realizada na dissertação sobre a configuração do ecossistema para aprendizagens no processo de alfabetização em um contexto da recontextualização das ciências. O estudo insere-se no grupo de pesquisa COTEDIC UNILASALLE/CNPq, vinculado ao Programa de Pós-Graduação em Educação da mesma universidade. O objetivo é investigar a configuração do ecossistema para aprendizagens no processo de alfabetização por meio da recontextualização das ciências. A pesquisa tem uma abordagem qualitativa e exploratória, utilizando a estratégia metodológica da pesquisa participante. A observação direta da configuração do ecossistema para aprendizagens na alfabetização foi inspirada nos cotidianos de 20 estudantes de uma turma de 1º ano da professora-pesquisadora, atuante em uma escola da rede municipal de ensino, em Canoas/RS. No contexto da Educação, o ecossistema para aprendizagens é configurado por meio da interação na tecitura do conhecimento. Assim, houve a recontextualização das ciências, mediante a articulação entre contação de histórias, alfabetização e ciências. A configuração do ecossistema ocorreu na recontextualização de histórias, na triangulação dos dados produzidos com o referencial teórico e na interpretação da professora-pesquisadora. Ao final desse percurso de aprendizagens e interações no ecossistema, configurado em um contexto de alfabetização e articulado na recontextualização das ciências, observamos que as aprendizagens ocorreram no viver e conviver.