bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and food expenditures: Evaluating California's cash‐out policy
Authors: Hembre Erik , McElroy Katherine , Ohannessian Shogher
Published: May 2024

This paper investigates how Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) eligibility affects food expenditures. A 2019 policy change in California granted SNAP eligibility to previously ineligible Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients. Using the Consumer Expenditure Survey, we find that after the policy change, affected SSI recipients increased their “food at home” budget share between 2.5 and 4.3 percentage points ($120 to $206 per quarter). The SNAP effect on total food expenditures is dampened by a decrease in “food away from home” which SNAP benefits cannot be spent on.
Digital Revolution and Job Quality of Lower Class Workers: Quasi‐experimental Evidence from the Broadband China Program
Authors: Wang Xiumei , Jiang Ye , Yi Famin
Published: May 2024

This study examines the impact of the digital revolution on the job quality of workers with a specific focus on those at the lowest end of the spectrum in China's domestic labor market. Leveraging exogenous timing variations that result from the implementation of the Broadband China Program across different cities, it provides quasi‐experimental evidence concerning the effects of the digital revolution on the job quality of lower class workers, particularly rural–urban migrant workers. Using data from China Migrants Dynamic Survey, this study reveals that migrants' comprehensive job quality index increased by 0.0138 (5.33 percent), and its component indices experienced positive effects after the Broadband China Program was implemented. This study also investigates heterogeneous policy treatment effects among workers with diverse demographic and occupational characteristics. Underlying mechanisms are considered, including positive macroeconomic shocks, increased social interactions, and Internet use. In particular, migrants' attitudes toward local settlement became more positive, suggesting that the positive effects of the digital revolution on livelihood lasted for some time. Taking China as an example, this study contributes valuable empirical evidence of how the digital revolution can affect lower class workers' employment or living conditions in a developing country. Related policy implications are also considered.
Evaluation of the Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Hub Australia website
Authors: Cheung Melissa Mei Yin , Jones Heather , Eastwell Natalie , Zhang Tina , Harford Kate , Bower Carol , Elliott Elizabeth J.
Published: May 2024

Introduction

To evaluate use and utility of the Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Hub Australia website.

Methods

Online REDCap user survey incorporating the Website Evaluation Questionnaire, open ended questions, Google metrics data and an accessibility audit.

Results

Seventy‐six participants: researchers (32%), health professionals (29%) and policymakers/advocates (16%) completed the survey. Most were from Australia (95%) and were likely or very likely to recommend the FASD Hub to colleagues (92%), friends (74%) and patients (72%). The mean Website Evaluation Questionnaire score was at least 3.45/5 for all dimensions (ease of use, hyperlinks, structure, relevance, comprehension, completeness, layout, search option); range 3.45 (search option) to 4.04 (relevance). Participants found the content trustworthy (92%) but wanted more information for, and to support, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and improved search capacity. Google metrics identified 25,534 unique users over 6 months (82% new users); 83% aged 18–44 years, 72% female and 35% international.

Conclusions

Users found the FASD Hub accessible, authoritative and useful and suggested improvements.
Global modified Delphi consensus on diagnosis, phenotypes, and treatment of SCN8A‐related epilepsy and/or neurodevelopmental disorders
Authors: Conecker Gabrielle , Xia Maya Y. , Hecker JayEtta , Achkar Christelle , Cukiert Cristine , Devries Seth , Donner Elizabeth , Fitzgerald Mark P. , Gardella Elena , Hammer Michael , Hegde Anaita , Hu Chunhui , Kato Mitsuhiro , Luo Tian , Schreiber John M. , Wang Yi , Kooistra Tammy , Oudin Madeleine , Waldrop Kayla , Youngquist J. Tyler , Zhang Dennis , Wirrell Elaine , Perry M. Scott
Published: May 2024

Objective

We aimed to develop consensus for diagnosis/management of SCN8A‐related disorders. Utilizing a modified Delphi process, a global cohort of experienced clinicians and caregivers provided input on diagnosis, phenotypes, treatment, and management of SCN8A‐related disorders.

Methods

A Core Panel (13 clinicians, one researcher, six caregivers), divided into three subgroups (diagnosis/phenotypes, treatment, comorbidities/prognosis), performed a literature review and developed questions for the modified Delphi process. Twenty‐eight expert clinicians, one researcher, and 13 caregivers from 16 countries participated in the subsequent three survey rounds. We defined consensus as follows: strong consensus, ≥80% fully agree; moderate consensus, ≥80% fully/partially agree, <10% disagree; and modest consensus, 67%–79% fully/partially agree, <10% disagree.

Results

Early diagnosis is important for long‐term clinical outcomes in SCN8A‐related disorders. There are five phenotypes: three with early seizure onset (severe developmental and epileptic encephalopathy [DEE], mild/moderate DEE, self‐limited (familial) infantile epilepsy [SeL(F)IE]) and two with later/no seizure onset (neurodevelopmental delay with generalized epilepsy [NDDwGE], NDD without epilepsy [NDDwoE]). Caregivers represented six patients with severe DEE, five mild/moderate DEE, one NDDwGE, and one NDDwoE. Phenotypes vary by age at seizures/developmental delay onset, seizure type, electroencephalographic/magnetic resonance imaging findings, and first‐line treatment. Gain of function (GOF) versus loss of function (LOF) is valuable for informing treatment. Sodium channel blockers are optimal first‐line treatment for GOF, severe DEE, mild/moderate DEE, and SeL(F)IE; levetiracetam is relatively contraindicated in GOF patients. First‐line treatment for NDDwGE is valproate, ethosuximide, or lamotrigine; sodium channel blockers are relatively contraindicated in LOF patients.

Significance

This is the first‐ever global consensus for the diagnosis and treatment of SCN8A‐related disorders. This consensus will reduce knowledge gaps in disease recognition and inform preferred treatment across this heterogeneous disorder. Consensus of this type allows more clinicians to provide evidence‐based care and empowers SCN8A families to advocate for their children.
Focal cooling: An alternative treatment for drug‐resistant epilepsy in a mesial temporal lobe epilepsy primate model—A preliminary study
Authors: Torres Napoleon , de Montalivet Etienne , Borntrager Quentin , Benahmed Selimen , Legrain Antoine , Adesso Eleonora , Aubert Nicolas , Sauter‐Starace Fabien , Costecalde Thomas , Martel Felix , Ratel David , Gaude Christophe , Auboiroux Vincent , Piallat Brigitte , Aksenova Tetiana , Molet Jenny , Chabardes Stephan
Published: May 2024

Objective

Focal cooling is emerging as a relevant therapy for drug‐resistant epilepsy (DRE). However, we lack data on its effectiveness in controlling seizures that originate in deep‐seated areas like the hippocampus. We present a thermoelectric solution for focal brain cooling that specifically targets these brain structures.

Methods

A prototype implantable device was developed, including temperature sensors and a cannula for penicillin injection to create an epileptogenic zone (EZ) near the cooling tip in a non‐human primate model of epilepsy. The mesial temporal lobe was targeted with repeated penicillin injections into the hippocampus. Signals were recorded from an sEEG (Stereoelectroencephalography) lead placed 2 mm from the EZ. Once the number of seizures had stabilized, focal cooling was applied, and temperature and electroclinical events were monitored using a customized detection algorithm. Tests were performed on two Macaca fascicularis monkeys at three temperatures.

Results

Hippocampal seizures were observed 40–120 min post‐injection, their duration and frequency stabilized at around 120 min. Compared to the control condition, a reduction in the number of hippocampal seizures was observed with cooling to 21°C (Control: 4.34 seizures, SD 1.704 per 20 min vs Cooling to 21°C: 1.38 seizures, SD 1.004 per 20 min). The effect was more pronounced with cooling to 17°C, resulting in an almost 80% reduction in seizure frequency. Seizure duration and number of interictal discharges were unchanged following focal cooling. After several months of repeated penicillin injections, hippocampal sclerosis was observed, similar to that recorded in humans. In addition, seizures were identified by detecting temperature variations of 0.3°C in the EZ correlated with the start of the seizures.

Significance

In epilepsy therapy, the ultimate aim is total seizure control with minimal side effects. Focal cooling of the EZ could offer an alternative to surgery and to existing neuromodulation devices.
Multi‐label logo recognition and retrieval based on weighted fusion of neural features
Authors: Bernabeu Marisa , Gallego Antonio Javier , Pertusa Antonio
Published: May 2024

Classifying logo images is a challenging task as they contain elements such as text or shapes that can represent anything from known objects to abstract shapes. While the current state of the art for logo classification addresses the problem as a multi‐class task focusing on a single characteristic, logos can have several simultaneous labels, such as different colours. This work proposes a method that allows visually similar logos to be classified and searched from a set of data according to their shape, colour, commercial sector, semantics, general characteristics, or a combination of features selected by the user. Unlike previous approaches, the proposal employs a series of multi‐label deep neural networks specialized in specific attributes and combines the obtained features to perform the similarity search. To delve into the classification system, different existing logo topologies are compared and some of their problems are analysed, such as the incomplete labelling that trademark registration databases usually contain. The proposal is evaluated considering 76,000 logos (seven times more than previous approaches) from the European Union Trademarks dataset, which is organized hierarchically using the Vienna ontology. Overall, experimentation attains reliable quantitative and qualitative results, reducing the normalized average rank error of the state‐of‐the‐art from 0.040 to 0.018 for the Trademark Image Retrieval task. Finally, given that the semantics of logos can often be subjective, graphic design students and professionals were surveyed. Results show that the proposed methodology provides better labelling than a human expert operator, improving the label ranking average precision from 0.53 to 0.68.
Depredation: An old conflict with the sea
Authors: Drymon James Marcus , Jargowsky Amanda E. , Prasky Evan G. , Camp Edward V. , Oliphant Ashley , Powers Sean P. , Scyphers Steven B.
Published: May 2024

Depredation (the partial or complete removal of a hooked species by a non‐target species) is a human–wildlife conflict as old as humans and the sea. In some ways, depredation is no different today than it was a century ago. But in many ways, this conflict has become more complicated. Following three decades of successful management, some US shark populations have begun to rebuild. However, many anglers attribute perceived increases in shark depredation to management measures, claiming they have led to ‘overpopulation’ of sharks and/or learned behaviour by sharks. We investigated whether these factors could explain the reported increases in depredation. Based on fishery‐independent surveys, neither shark population increases nor learned behaviour by sharks is evident. However, increases in angler effort provide an alternative explanation that is not often considered. While far from a smoking gun, at least four themes emerge from this thought exercise. First, it is important to understand historical predator baselines. Second, it is important to acknowledge lifting baselines, that is, instances where previously depleted populations are recovering. Third, it is important to remember that there are many instances when stakeholder observations were initially misaligned with traditional scientific observations but were ultimately recognized as pivotal for filling data gaps. Finally, and perhaps most important, is the acknowledgement that perceived conflict is as potent as real conflict. Arguably, it may not matter if depredation has increased or decreased; the overwhelming perception from stakeholders is an increase in depredation, and this is the perceived (or real) conflict that must be addressed.
Structure–polaronic conductivity relationship in vanadate–phosphate glasses
Authors: Razum Marta , Pavić Luka , Pajić Damir , Pisk Jana , Mošner Petr , Koudelka Ladislav , Šantić Ana
Published: May 2024

This work provides new insights into the nature of the polaronic transport in xV2O5–(100−x)P2O5, 41 ≤ x ≤ 89 mol% glasses from analysis of their conductivity over a wide range of frequencies and temperatures, and correlation of the electrical parameters to the structural models of these materials. The results show that the linear increase in direct current (DC) conductivity with the increase in V2O5 could be related to the formation of a vanadate subnetwork, which is characterized by a length distribution of V–O bonds and variations in linkages between different vanadate units. Such a structurally complex network offers multiple conduction pathways which are favorable for polaron hopping. The Summerfield scaling of conductivity spectra reveals a temperature‐invariant mechanism of polaron transport for all glasses and the same local structural environment of polarons at higher V2O5 contents due to the same ratio of vanadate units present in the network. Also, this study highlights the similarities and differences in the nature of the polaronic transport of vanadate–phosphate glasses and other polaronically conducting phosphate glasses containing WO3, MoO3, and Fe2O3, and pins down a pivotal role of the glass structure in electrical processes in these materials.
Sharenting: A systematic review of the empirical literature
Authors: Tosuntaş Şule Betül , Griffiths Mark D.
Published: May 2024

Sharenting, the practice of parents publicly sharing information about their children on social media, has become increasingly prevalent in recent years. The purpose of this study was to conduct a systematic literature review in order to evaluate existing publications that have empirically investigated the sharenting phenomenon and conceptualized its characteristics and possible consequences. Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis guidelines, 61 studies were reviewed. Based on the point of view and focus of the studies, six themes emerged: characteristics of sharenting, children's privacy, professional sharenting, children's perspectives, factors affecting sharenting, and social media dilemmas. The review highlights the growing prevalence of sharenting and provides a comprehensive overview of the empirical investigations and conceptualizations of the phenomenon. The findings have implications for parents, professionals, and policymakers, and opportunities for future research to further understand the complex and multifaceted nature of sharenting.
Toward a globally inclusive knowledge base on adolescent development: A charge to the Majority World and a plea for epistemic and paradigmatic pluralism
Authors: Marfo Kofi
Published: May 2024

Ongoing internal dialog on the limitations of Euro‐American developmental science has opened up space to explore how best to work toward a knowledge base that is adequately representative of the values, cultures, epistemic traditions, and lived experiences of peoples, nations, and regions around the world. So far, recommendations for the advancement of a global developmental science have focused preponderantly on (1) methodological considerations and (2) an architecture to support cross‐disciplinary international collaborative inquiry and/or enhance research capacity building for Majority World scholars and institutions. In this commentary, instead of focusing on specific contributions to the Special Issue, I make a case for an explicit commitment to field‐building within Majority World contexts as the primary gap‐closing path toward the cultivation of a global developmental science knowledge base. I begin with a worldwide population analysis to demonstrate the magnitude of geopolitical, eco‐cultural, and epistemic imbalances inherent in the shaping of Euro‐American developmental science. In tandem with the Special Issue's central theme, I draw on scholarship from the fields of history, sociology, and political economy to link decolonial theory to the advancement of a global developmental science. Finally, I explore ways in which exemplary research establishments already engaged in prolific inquiry and research training may be ideal candidates to support field‐building and help to advance multidisciplinary inquiry within an ethos of epistemic and methodological pluralism.
Circadian light/dark cycle reversal exacerbates the progression of chronic kidney disease in mice
Authors: Zhang Jiayang , Qiu Lejia , Liu Zhaiyi , Liu Jiaxin , Yu Bo , Liu Chengcheng , Ren Baoyin , Zhang Jiaqi , Li Shuyao , Guan Youfei , Zheng Feng , Yang Guangrui , Chen Lihong
Published: May 2024

Circadian disruption such as shift work, jet lag, has gradually become a global health issue and is closely associated with various metabolic disorders. The influence and mechanism of circadian disruption on renal injury in chronic kidney disease (CKD) remains inadequately understood. Here, we evaluated the impact of environmental light disruption on the progression of chronic renal injury in CKD mice. By using two abnormal light exposure models to induce circadian disruption, we found that circadian disruption induced by weekly light/dark cycle reversal (LDDL) significantly exacerbated renal dysfunction, accelerated renal injury, and promoted renal fibrosis in mice with 5/6 nephrectomy and unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO). Mechanistically, RNA‐seq analysis revealed significant immune and metabolic disorder in the LDDL‐conditioned CKD kidneys. Consistently, renal content of ATP was decreased and ROS production was increased in the kidney tissues of the LDDL‐challenged CKD mice. Untargeted metabolomics revealed a significant buildup of lipids in the kidney affected by LDDL. Notably, the level of β‐NMN, a crucial intermediate in the NAD+ pathway, was found to be particularly reduced. Moreover, we demonstrated that both β‐NMN and melatonin administration could significantly rescue the light‐disruption associated kidney dysfunction. In conclusion, environmental circadian disruption may exacerbate chronic kidney injury by facilitating inflammatory responses and disturbing metabolic homeostasis. β‐NMN and melatonin treatments may hold potential as promising approaches for preventing and treating light‐disruption associated CKD.
Research on the supply and demand of elderly care service resources in China
Authors: Bao Min , Ma Rongji , Chao Jianqian
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study aims to assess the current status and spatial distribution differences of elderly care service resources supply and demand in China.

Methods

Semi‐structured qualitative interviews were utilized to gather participants’ insights into the current demands for elderly care services, the status of resource allocation, and related indicators. The entropy weight method was employed to determine indicator weights, yielding objective demand and allocation indices for elderly care service resources. Kernel density estimation was used to illustrate the distribution characteristics of the demand and allocation indices. The coupling coordination degree model was applied to measure the coupling coordination level of China's elderly care service resource supply and demand system in 2020.

Results

The demand index ranks highest in Beijing (0.3291), Shanghai (0.2941), and Tianjin (0.2563), while the lowest are found in Tibet (0.1673), Guangxi (0.1727), and Guizhou (0.1737). Kernel density estimation shows that the demand index is concentrated in the range of 0.1800 to 0.2000. The top three regions for allocation index are Shanghai (184.0007), Qinghai (129.8177), and Beijing (109.5941), with the lowest in Liaoning (34.8558), Hainan (35.3168), and Yunnan (36.6366). Kernel density estimation indicates that the allocation index is concentrated in the range of 25–75. Calculations of coupling coordination degree show that Shanghai has high coordination quality (0.9368), Beijing has good coordination (0.8392), while Hainan and Yunnan experience severe imbalances (0.1990, 0.1831).

Conclusions

There is a significant lack of coordination between the demand for elderly care services and the allocation of resources in Hainan and Yunnan provinces in China. Most provinces, with the exception of Beijing and Shanghai, exhibit some degree of misalignment. The Chinese government should address the varying needs of the elderly population in different regions, pay timely attention to regional disparities, enhance regional cooperation, and dynamically allocate elderly care resources in a rational manner.
Vaccination status among children in an urban area and its association with risk factors and some parent health practices: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Bardak Feyza , Kocoglu‐Tanyer Deniz
Published: May 2024

Objective

The study aims to determine the vaccination status of children and evaluate the relationship between vaccination rates, vaccine attitudes, and some parental health practices.

Design and Methods

This cross‐sectional study was conducted with 674 mothers. Data were collected using a survey evaluating vaccine characteristics, some infant health practices, and The Public Attitude Toward Vaccination Scale—Health Belief Model. Chi‐square test, independent samples t‐test, and logistic regression analysis were used.

Results

80.2% of children were fully vaccinated. The rate of non or under‐vaccination was higher in the group that did not regularly undergo follow‐up for 0–2‐year‐old children, did not fully have health screenings, did not use vitamin D and iron supplements, and used alternative medicine. Moreover, the duration of breast milk feeding, the transition to supplementary food, and the duration of vitamin D use in the non‐fully vaccinated group were lower than in the fully vaccinated group (p < .05). The increase in maternal education period and severity and benefit attitude scores of vaccine attitude were the factors that decreased the rate of non‐fully vaccination. The increase in barrier scores toward vaccines increased the rate of non or under‐vaccination.

Conclusion

Mothers who have negative attitudes toward vaccination have negative behaviors in health practices and screenings on infant/child health.
Hymenoscyphus fraxineus persistence in the ash litter
Authors: Laubray Simon , Buée Marc , Marçais Benoit
Published: May 2024

Hymenoscyphus fraxineus causes ash dieback in Europe. It overwinters on ash leaf residue (rachis) within the forest litter. In late spring, the fungus produces apothecia on the rachises and releases ascospores to infect leaves. Previous studies reported that H. fraxineus was able to produce apothecia on the rachis for 5 years after the leaf infection under artificial conditions. However, ash litter is known to decompose rapidly in situ. We therefore monitored the decomposition kinetics of ash leaf debris and the persistence of the pathogen, as well as its ability to produce apothecia in the forest litter. For this, leaves shed in autumn in stands affected by ash dieback were placed in mesh bags and left in the forest litter for 6, 18 and 30 months. At each sampling period, litter mass loss and level of colonization of the rachises by H. fraxineus were measured, as was the pathogen's ability to produce apothecia on them. Despite high fragmentation, about 14% of the rachis dry weight remained in the mesh bags after 30 months, and the pathogen retained the ability to produce apothecia on these rachises. A simulation estimating the age composition of the colonized rachises present in the litter during the fruiting period was developed from these results. It shows that the persistence of H. fraxineus in old rachises of the litter represents a reservoir of inoculum that could compensate for poor colonization of autumn leaves and revive local outbreaks after years of unfavourable weather for the development of the pathogen.
Chest x‐ray has low sensitivity to detect silicosis in artificial stone benchtop industry workers
Authors: Hoy Ryan F. , Jones Catherine , Newbigin Katrina , Abramson Michael J. , Barnes Hayley , Dimitriadis Christina , Ellis Samantha , Glass Deborah C. , Gwini Stella M. , Hore‐Lacy Fiona , Jimenez‐Martin Javier , Pasricha Sundeep S. , Pirakalathanan Janu , Siemienowicz Miranda , Walker‐Bone Karen , Sim Malcolm R.
Published: May 2024

Background and Objective

Chest x‐ray (CXR) remains a core component of health monitoring guidelines for workers at risk of exposure to crystalline silica. There has however been a lack of evidence regarding the sensitivity of CXR to detect silicosis in artificial stone benchtop industry workers.

Methods

Paired CXR and high‐resolution computed tomography (HRCT) images were acquired from 110 artificial stone benchtop industry workers. Blinded to the clinical diagnosis, each CXR and HRCT was independently read by two thoracic radiologists from a panel of seven, in accordance with International Labour Office (ILO) methodology for CXR and International Classification of HRCT for Occupational and Environmental Respiratory Diseases. Accuracy of screening positive (ILO major category 1, 2 or 3) and negative (ILO major category 0) CXRs were compared with identification of radiological features of silicosis on HRCT.

Results

CXR was positive for silicosis in 27/110 (24.5%) workers and HRCT in 40/110 (36.4%). Of the 83 with a negative CXR (ILO category 0), 15 (18.1%) had silicosis on HRCT. All 11 workers with ILO category 2 or 3 CXRs had silicosis on HRCT. In 99 workers ILO category 0 or 1 CXRs, the sensitivity of screening positive CXR compared to silicosis identified by HRCT was 48% (95%CI 29–68) and specificity 97% (90–100).

Conclusion

Compared to HRCT, sensitivity of CXR was low but specificity was high. Reliance on CXR for health monitoring would provide false reassurance for many workers, delay management and underestimate the prevalence of silicosis in the artificial stone benchtop industry.
The scope of practice of geriatric dentistry in British Columbia (Canada): An exploratory study
Authors: Chen Alice , Wyatt Chris C. L.
Published: May 2024

Aims

The oral health needs of frail older adults are increasing with an aging population in Canada. The objective of this study was to explore the perceptions of dentists in British Columbia regarding their view of geriatric dentistry as a distinct scope of practice and in relation to special needs dentistry.

Methods and results

Qualitative data were gathered thorough semi guided interviews of a purposeful sample of dental clinicians, educators and members of organized dentistry with specialized knowledge of oral health for frail older adults. Interviews were transcribed, coded, and analyzed using a thematic approach. Thematic saturation was reached with the 10 participants in this study. Through the method of interpretative description, patient, dentist, and systemic factors that shaped scope of practice for geriatric dentistry were identified as well as the broader skill sets required for geriatric dentistry.

Conclusion

The study found that participants perceived geriatric dentistry as unique scope of practice from general dentistry requiring special knowledge in the management of challenges associated with aging with frailty as well as the ability to work in long‐term care. Similar to special needs dentistry, geriatric dentistry requires person‐centered care and emphasized the need for interprofessional collaboration in alternative care settings.
Fuzzy Uncertainty Analysis of a Fractional Order Human Immunodeficiency Virus Dynamic Model With Type-1 and Interval Type-2 Parameters
Authors: Mohapatra Dhabaleswar , Chakraverty S.
Published: May 2024

In recent years, the study of mathematical models for the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has attracted considerable interest due to its importance in comprehending and combating the propagation of the virus. Typically, the model's governing equations are a system of ordinary differential equations. In order to explain the inheritance behavior, fractional order HIV models may be more helpful than integer order models. In addition, the presence of uncertainty in real-world phenomena can not be avoided, and fuzzy numbers are of great use in these scenarios. In view of the above, the numerical solution of the fuzzy fractional order HIV model is analyzed in this paper. The model takes into account the interactions between susceptible, asymptomatic, and symptomatic populations, as well as the effects of fractional order derivatives and fuzzy uncertainty. Here, the differentiation of the fuzzy parameters is considered in granular sense. The uncertain model parameters are addressed with triangular fuzzy numbers (TFNs) and interval type-2 triangular fuzzy numbers (IT2TFNs). The use of interval type-2 fuzzy numbers rather than type-1 fuzzy numbers to express the imprecise parameters may be helpful in some instances where the membership grade is unclear. The generalized modified Euler method (GMEM) is used to derive the corresponding solutions. Lastly, the behavior of various populations in crisp as well as uncertain environments is also studied using graphical results.
A scoping review of Aotearoa New Zealand women's experiences of substance use, alcohol and drug services
Authors: Jackson Suzette Claire , Chubb Laura Ann , De Haan Irene
Published: May 2024

INTRODUCTION: The experiences with healthcare services of women who use substances (WWUS)—especially when pregnant or parenting—are largely missing from research in Aotearoa. This scoping review was conducted to inform doctoral research on a new, integrated parenting and substance-use residential-treatment facility in Auckland: Te Whare Taonga.
APPROACH: Two objectives of the review were to: 1) collate insights from experiences of women who use substances; and 2) synthesise strengths and weaknesses within current healthcare and alcohol or other drug (AOD) services to understand what works to support WWUS, particularly those who are pregnant or parenting. Peer-reviewed studies, grey literature, and theses published between 1992–2022 exploring the perspectives and views of WWUS and their experiences of substance use, healthcare services, and AOD-treatment providers in Aotearoa New Zealand, were scoped in multiple databases.
FINDINGS: The review evidenced a need for gender-specific or gender-sensitive services that are non-stigmatising, accessible to pregnant or parenting women, and culturally appropriate. Holistic care tailored to individual need was considered important. Barriers to treatment included stigma, wait times, negative experiences of healthcare workers, and a lack of appropriate services to meet women’s needs.
CONCLUSIONS: There is a lack of AOD services available to WWUS, and, subsequently, research is limited. However, the findings provide an understanding of how healthcare and treatment providers, social workers, whānau (extended family, family group, can include friends with no kinship ties), community, and funders can provide informed and empathetic support to WWUS, including those who are pregnant and parenting.
Embedding spirituality and religion in social work practice: A socially just approach
Authors: Hare Jenny
Published: May 2024

Review of Embedding spirituality and religion in social work practice: A socially just approach by Fiona Gardner. Routledge, Oxon UK, 2022. ISBN9780367677541, pp.180, Paperback, NZD$69.97
What Is a Girl Worth?: Gender-Based Violence and Accountability in SportsWorld
Authors: Kiss Marissa , Foltz Katelyn E. , Hattery Angela , Mirance Katie , Smith Earl
Published: May 2024

Despite having clear policies that address athlete misconduct, including gender-based violence, at the collegiate and professional levels, members of SportsWorld—athletes, coaches, and staff—are rarely, if ever, held accountable. And, even when they face a penalty, more than 80% are allowed to either remain on the team or transfer and continue playing. In this paper, we explore the impact of this lack of accountability, including the “positive” benefits to players that include the opportunity to play in national playoffs and secure lucrative contracts as well as the negative impacts on victims and communities, most disturbingly the impact of serial abusers like Larry Nassar whose unfettered access to athletes resulted in hundreds of victimized individuals.
Glia in inhibitory synaptogenesis
Authors: Ferrarelli Leslie K.
Published: May 2024

Astrocyte-secreted neurocan guides the formation of inhibitory circuits in the brain.
Supplemental Material: Turbidity currents regulate the transport and settling of microplastics in a deep-sea submarine canyon
Authors: Zhang Xiaodong , Liu Zhifei , Li Daoji , al. et
Published: May 2024

Materials and Methods, Figures S1‒S8, Tables S1‒S3, and References. 
Nordic walking and arm swing asymmetry in people with Parkinson’s disease: protocol for a randomised clinical trial
Authors: Espinoza-Araneda Jessica , Caparros-Manosalva Cristian , da Cunha Maira , Marzuca-Nassr Gabriel Nasri , Fritz-Silva Nicole , Pagnussat Aline S
Published: May 2024

People with Parkinson’s disease (PD) face disruptions in arm swing (AS) motion during walking, including a reduction in amplitude and an increase in asymmetry. Both conditions are detrimental to gait performance. Nordic walking (NW) is a walking modality that uses poles and can positively affect the parameters of AS. This study aims to compare an NW with a free walking (FW) protocol and investigate its effects on AS asymmetry, AS amplitude and gait parameters in people with PD. Twenty-eight people with PD, stages 1–3 on the Hoehn and Yahr Scale, will be randomly assigned to the NW training group (n=14) or the FW training group (n=14). The primary outcomes are amplitude asymmetry of AS (%) and AS amplitude (deg). We will also analyse temporospatial measurements during walking, functional mobility and quality of life. Blinded researchers will conduct evaluations at baseline (T0), postintervention (T1) and at 1 month follow-up (T2). Participants will complete 24 supervised NW or FW training sessions for 12 weeks. This is the first study to address the effects of NW on the asymmetry of AS, AS amplitude and its influence on gait parameters. We hypothesise that an NW programme in PD will reduce the asymmetry and increase the AS amplitude during gait to a greater extent than FW. The results of this study may provide new evidence to understand the effects of NW on gait in people with PD. The study was registered in ClinicalTrial.gov (NCT06342271).
Combination of anti-SSA/Ro60 and anti-dsDNA serotype is predictive of belimumab renal response in patients with lupus nephritis
Authors: Zhao Liling , Wang Wenwen , Wu Lijun , Wu Tong , Tu Jianxin , Wu Xue , Sun Fangfang , Ding Huihua , Shen Nan , Wu Huaxiang , Zhu Jing , Sun Li , Ye Shuang
Published: May 2024

Objectives

To investigate the effectiveness of belimumab on active lupus nephritis (LN) and explore the predictors, including serological biomarkers, of renal response to belimumab in a real-world setting.

Methods

This multicentre, real-world observational study enrolled patients with active LN receiving intravenous belimumab as an add-on therapy with 24-hour urine protein≥1 g and estimated glomerular filtration rate≥30 mL/min/1.73 m2at baseline. Complete renal response (CRR), partial renal response (PRR), no renal response (NRR) and primary efficacy renal response (PERR) were evaluated. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify risk factors for NRR to belimumab at 6 months.

Results

Among the 122 patients enrolled, the proportions of patients achieving CRR, PRR, NRR and PERR were 35.9%, 17.1%, 47.0% and 44.4% at 6 months (n=117) and 55.6%, 19.4%, 26.4% and 58.3% at 12 months (n=72), respectively. Proteinuria, daily prednisone dosage and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index 2000 scores significantly decreased at 6 and 12 months (p<0.0001). NRR at 6 months (NRR6) was the strongest negative predictor of CRR at 12 months. Baseline anti-dsDNA positivity inversely predicted NRR6 (OR=0.32,95% CI=0.10 to 0.98, p=0.049), while anti-SSA/Ro60 positively predicted NRR6 (OR=3.16, 95% CI=1.14 to 8.74, p=0.027). The combination of anti-SSA/Ro60 and anti-dsDNA serotype quantitatively predicted belimumab renal response.

Conclusion

The effectiveness of belimumab was reproducible in Chinese patients with active LN. The simple yet interesting serotype predictive model needs further validation and its possible underlying mechanistic relevance deserves further exploration.
Dysregulation of circulating collagen turnover markers in very early systemic sclerosis
Authors: Dobrota Rucsandra , Jordan Suzana , Juhl Pernille , Del Papa Nicoletta , Maurer Britta , Becker Mike , Mihai Carina , Bay-Jensen Anne-C , Karsdal Morten Asser , Siebuhr Anne Sofie , Distler Oliver
Published: May 2024

Objective

Clinical observation suggests that vascular activation and autoimmunity precede remodelling of the extracellular matrix (ECM) in systemic sclerosis (SSc). We challenge this paradigm by hypothesising that ECM biomarkers are already disturbed in patients with very early SSc (veSSc) when fibrosis is not yet clinically detectable.

Methods

42 patients with veSSc, defined as the presence of Raynaud’s phenomenon and at least one of puffy fingers, positive antinuclear antibodies or pathological nailfold capillaroscopy, not meeting the 2013 American College of Rheumatology/European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology classification criteria for SSc, were compared with healthy controls (HCs, n=29). ECM degradation (BGM, C3M, C4M and C6M) and ECM formation biomarkers (PRO-C3, PRO-C4 and PRO-C5) were measured in serum using ELISAs. A cross-sectional analysis at baseline and a longitudinal analysis was performed.

Results

Compared with HC, veSSc patients showed a strongly dysregulated turnover of type III and IV collagens (higher C3M, C4M, both p<0.0001 and PRO-C3, p=0.004, lower turnover ratios PRO-C3/C3M and PRO-C4/C4M, both p<0.0001). The biglycan degradation biomarker BGM was higher in veSSc than in HC (p=0.006), whereas the degradation biomarker for type VI collagen, C6M, was lower (p=0.002). In an ROC analysis, biomarkers of type III and IV collagen excellently distinguished between veSSc and HC: C3M, AUC=0.95, p<0.0001; C4M, AUC=0.97, p<0.0001; turnover ratios PRO-C3/C3M, AUC=0.80, p<0.0001; PRO-C4/C4M, AUC=0.97; p<0.0001.

Conclusion

These findings indicate ECM remodelling as a very early phenomenon of SSc occurring in parallel with microvascular and autoimmune changes. Biomarkers of type III and IV collagens distinguished between veSSc patients and HC, indicating them as potential biomarkers for the detection of veSSc.
Exploring an InGaN Micro-LED structure for optimum IQE operating on low current condition through simulation study
Authors: Hung Wen-Ching , Chang Sheng-Po , Chang Shoou-Jinn , Kuo Hao-Chung , Chen Jyh-Chen
Published: May 2024

Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are key components in display applications. The quantum efficiency of GaN/InGaN LEDs has been enhanced, leading to advancements in indoor and outdoor RGB LED display applications. White LED backlights are commonly used in displays due to the increased efficiency of InGaN LEDs. Despite efficiency, lifespan and image retention issues, OLED displays are utilized in high-end mobile phones to meet market expectations for screen response time and color saturation. Micro-LED RGB full-color displays have the potential to dominate the next-generation display market, driven by the increasing demands for resolution, power consumption and response time. Micro-LEDs are becoming smaller, reaching sizes of 50[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m or even smaller, to meet the high-resolution requirements of displays. They offer higher contrast, brightness and faster response speeds. This research utilizes numerical simulations to develop a model for radiative and nonradiative recombination in InGaN semiconductor materials. The aim is to investigate the internal quantum efficiency (IQE) of various chip sizes, quantum well counts, well thicknesses and electron block layers under low current densities. The research reveals that the optimal structure is a single quantum well with an electron block layer (EBL), which can increase IQE from 53.85% to 80.9% at 0.01[Formula: see text]A/cm2 under low current density conditions, with a decrease in the number of quantum wells to one. The IQE efficiency improvement is 27.05%.
Investigation of the magnetocaloric effect and critical behavior of the perovskite La0.65Ca0.35−xBaxMnO3 (x=0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3)
Authors: Zhao Jing , Jin Xiang , Gao Haiqiang , Ma Huaijin , Xing Ru , Zhao Jianjun
Published: May 2024

Polycrystalline samples of La[Formula: see text]Ca[Formula: see text]BaxMnO3 (x = 0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3) were prepared using a conventional solid-state reaction method. The prepared samples demonstrated good single-phase quality, characterized by a space group of Pbnm. There was a significant increase in the relative cooling power (at 5[Formula: see text]T), with values as follows: RCP[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]J[Formula: see text]⋅[Formula: see text]kg[Formula: see text], RCP[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]J[Formula: see text]⋅[Formula: see text]kg[Formula: see text], RCP[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]J[Formula: see text]⋅[Formula: see text]kg[Formula: see text], and RCP[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]J[Formula: see text]⋅[Formula: see text]kg[Formula: see text]. It is noteworthy that the sample with a doping level of x = 0.2 underwent a transition from a first-order phase transition to a second-order phase transition. The critical behavior of the x = 0.2 and 0.3 samples was analyzed using modified Arrott plots and the Kouvel–Fisher method to determine critical exponents. The results obtained from both methods were in close agreement, indicating that the critical behavior of the x = 0.2 and 0.3 samples can be described by the mean field model.
On von Neumann Regularity of Commutators
Authors: Kim Nam Kyun , Kwak Tai Keun , Lee Yang , Ryu Sung Ju
Published: May 2024

We study the structure of rings which satisfy the von Neumann regularity of commutators, and call a ring [Formula: see text] C-regular if [Formula: see text] for all [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] in [Formula: see text]. For a C-regular ring [Formula: see text], we prove [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] are the Jacobson radical, upper nilradical, Wedderburn radical, and center of a given ring [Formula: see text], respectively, and [Formula: see text] denotes the polynomial ring with a set [Formula: see text] of commuting indeterminates over [Formula: see text]; we also prove that [Formula: see text] is semiprime if and only if the right (left) singular ideal of [Formula: see text] is zero. We provide methods to construct C-regular rings which are neither commutative nor von Neumann regular, from any given ring. Moreover, for a C-regular ring [Formula: see text], the following are proved to be equivalent: (i) [Formula: see text] is Abelian; (ii) every prime factor ring of [Formula: see text] is a duo domain; (iii) [Formula: see text] is quasi-duo; and (iv) [Formula: see text] is reduced.
( g,e ) -Symmetric Rings
Authors: Meng Fanyun , Wei Junchao
Published: May 2024

Let [Formula: see text] be a ring and [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] in [Formula: see text], the set of idempotents of [Formula: see text]. Then [Formula: see text] is called [Formula: see text]-symmetric if [Formula: see text] implies [Formula: see text] for any [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]. Clearly, [Formula: see text] is an [Formula: see text]-symmetric ring if and only if [Formula: see text] is a [Formula: see text]-symmetric ring; in particular, [Formula: see text] is a symmetric ring if and only if [Formula: see text] is a [Formula: see text]-symmetric ring. We show that [Formula: see text] is left semicentral if and only if [Formula: see text] is a [Formula: see text]-symmetric ring; in particular, [Formula: see text] is an Abel ring if and only if [Formula: see text] is a [Formula: see text]-symmetric ring for each [Formula: see text]. We also show that [Formula: see text] is [Formula: see text]-symmetric if and only if [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] is symmetric, and [Formula: see text] for any [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]. Using [Formula: see text]-symmetric rings, we construct some new classes of rings.
Structure and Representations for Electrical Lie Algebra of Type D5
Authors: Chen Yulu , Shen Ran
Published: May 2024

In this paper, we prove that the electrical Lie algebra [Formula: see text] is isomorphic to the semidirect product of [Formula: see text] and a 2-step nilpotent Lie algebra. Furthermore, we classify the irreducible highest weight modules for [Formula: see text].
Threats to Liberalism in a Nascent Democracy: Authoritarian Encroachment, a Security Dilemma, and a Political-Cultural Deficit
Authors: WU YU-SHAN
Published: May 2024

This article offers a complimentary analysis to Prof. Thompson’s treatise on democracy in East Asia. It focuses on the external source of democratic backsliding, a look into the future, and an emphasis on the dilemma of meeting the security challenge while remaining liberal in a world rapidly plunging into Cold War 2.0. Three sources of threat to nascent liberal democracies are identified: authoritarian encroachment, a security dilemma, and a political-cultural deficit. There are striking similarities between the response of a country to external threat and a human body’s response to pathogens (such as SARS-CoV-2). These responses also have similar effects on the survival of the country and the infected person. In order to analyze the relation between a country’s external environment and its polity, a historical account of how the perception of relative security managed to advance liberal political institutions and threats to national security thwarted liberalization in the constitutional development of the Republic of China is offered. This complement ends with a warning about how the world’s plunge into Cold War 2.0 may adversely impact nascent liberal democracies in East Asia that bear the brunt of the rise of an authoritarian China.