bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
REVOLUTIONIZING VANETS WITH GRAPH NEURAL NETWORKS USING DYNAMIC TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT
Authors:   P.A. College of Engineering and Technology, India, M Umaselvi , Maria S. Leena ,   Government Engineering College, Hassan, India, M.J. Sridevi ,   Government First Grade College for Women, India, B Gayathri ,   Bishop Heber College, India, A. A. Alloush Khaled ,   Arab Open University, Saudi Arabia
Published: October 2024

The increasing movement from rural areas to urban areas, along with the widening gap in population, has resulted in metropolitan areas becoming extremely overpopulated. As a result of the high volume of traffic that occurs in these areas, traffic monitoring is an extremely important activity. According to the findings of this study, an improved authentication and communication protocol that is based on clusters could be implemented for Intelligent Transportation Systems in Vehicular Ad Hoc Networks (VANETs). Our number one objective is to enhance the sharing of resources amongst vehicles through improved communication. Cluster-based routing protocols allowed us to increase the scalability, stability, and dependability of fast-moving VANETs. This was accomplished in the context of vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) and vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) communications. To easing concerns regarding privacy and safety, we arranged for the vehicles to be certified by an independent contractor. Through the utilization of Graph Neural Networks (GNNs), we can reduce the number of instances in which links fail, as well as minimize end-to-end (E2E) delays and route requests. Our approach has resulted in several important benefits, including enhancements to throughput, reductions in the amount of time required for TCP socket initialization, acceleration of TCP handshake response, and DNS lookup. Short-range peer-to-peer wireless communication is the focus of the protocols that are used within a cluster that is 400 meters in radius. Utilizing new peer-to-peer wireless communications over VANET is what is meant by the term resource-conserving in this context. Within the framework of the suggested protocol secure authentication method, a certifying authority is responsible for the generation of a secure authentication key for the vehicle, which is subsequently provided to the vehicle.
ADAPTIVE REINFORCEMENT LEARNING-BASED DATA AGGREGATION AND ROUTING OPTIMIZATION (ARL-DARO) FOR ENHANCING PERFORMANCE IN WIRELESS SENSOR NETWORKS
Authors:   Quaid-E-Millath Government College for Women, India, V Shobana , Samraj Jasmine ,   Quaid-E-Millath Government College for Women, India
Published: October 2024

Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) are challenged by the need for optimized Energy Consumption (EC), efficient Data Aggregation (DA), and reliable routing due to their dynamic topologies and limited resources. Existing solutions like TEAMR and DDQNDA address these concerns but face significant drawbacks—TEAMR lacks adaptability to rapidly changing topologies, while DDQNDA suffers from high computational overhead and delayed convergence, hindering its effectiveness in real-time scenarios. To overcome these limitations, this paper introduces the Adaptive Reinforcement Learning (RL)-Based DA and Routing Optimization (ARL-DARO) algorithm. The proposed methodology follows a systematic approach, beginning with cluster formation and Cluster Head (CH) selection (CHS) using the Grey Wolf Optimizer (GWO), which ensures Energy-Efficient (EE) clustering and optimal CH selection. In the next step, trust factors such as Node Connectivity (NC), Residual Trust (RT), and Cooperation Rate (CR) are integrated into Quality of Service (QoS) metrics as part of the Fitness Function(FF) to enhance route reliability and security. Finally, the ARL-DARO algorithm is employed to dynamically optimize both data aggregation and routing. It leverages Q-learning to select optimal routes based on energy efficiency, security, and link reliability, further reducing data redundancy and improving adaptability to real-time network changes. Performance is assessed using parameters such EC, packet delivery ratio (PDR), end-to-end latency (E2E delay), throughput, and network lifetime (NL) across networks with 100, 200, 300, 400, and 500 nodes. Results show that ARL-DARO significantly reduces energy consumption by up to 45%, increases throughput by 30%, and extends network lifetime, proving its effectiveness over existing methods.
Common Physical Performance Tests for Evaluating Health in Older Adults: Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Banarjee Chitra , Choudhury Renoa , Park Joon-Hyuk , Xie Rui , Fukuda David , Stout Jeffrey , Thiamwong Ladda
Published: October 2024

Background

Interdisciplinary evaluation of older adults’ health care is a priority in the prevention of chronic health conditions and maintenance of daily functioning. While many studies evaluate different physical performance tests (PPTs) from a retrospective view in predicting mortality or cardiopulmonary health, it remains unclear which of the commonly used PPTs is the most effective at evaluating the current health of older adults. Additionally, the time and participant burden for each PPT must be considered when planning and implementing them for clinical or research purposes.

Objective

This cross-sectional study aimed to determine how elements of overall physical capacity, performance, and other nongait factors in older adults affect the results of 3 commonly used tests: the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), 6-minute walk test (6MWT), and Incremental Shuttle Walk Test (ISWT).

Methods

A total of 53 community-dwelling older adults met the inclusion and exclusion criteria (mean age 77.47, SD 7.25 years; n=41, 77% female; and n=21, 40% Hispanic). This study evaluated older adults using 3 different PPTs including the SPPB, 6MWT, and ISWT, as well as constructed multiple linear regression models with measures of physical activity, static balance, and fear of falling (FoF). The nongait measures included 7 days of physical activity monitoring using the ActiGraph GT9X Link instrument, objective measurement of static balance using the BTrackS Balance System, and FoF using the short Fall Efficacy Scale-International.

Results

The models revealed that the complete SPPB provided the most comprehensive value, as indicated by a greater R2 value (0.523), and that performance on the SPPB was predicted by both moderate to vigorous physical activity (P=.01) and FoF (P<.001). The ISWT was predicted by moderate to vigorous physical activity (P=.02), BMI (P=.02), and FoF (P=.006) and had a similar R2 value (0.517), whereas the gait component of the SPPB (P=.001) and 6MWT (P<.001) was predicted by only FoF and had lower R2 values (0.375 and 0.228, respectively).

Conclusions

The results indicated the value of a multicomponent, comprehensive test, such as the SPPB, in evaluating the health of older adults. Additionally, a comparison of the 2 field walking tests (ISWT and 6MWT) further distinguished the ISWT as more responsive to overall health in older adults. In comparing these commonly used PPTs, clinicians and researchers in the field can determine and select the most optimal test to evaluate older adults in communities and research settings.
Effects of Implementing a Barcode Information Management System on Operating Room Staff: Comparative Study (Preprint)
Authors: Li Chia-Yen , Huang Mei-Hui , Lin Yu-Shiue , Chu Chi-Ming , Pan Hsueh-Hsing
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND

Barcode information management systems (BIMS) have been implemented in operating rooms to improve the quality of medical care and administrative efficiency. Previous research has demonstrated that the Agile development model is extensively used in the development and management of information systems. However, the effect of information systems on staff acceptance has not been examined within the context of clinical medical information management systems.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to explore the effects and acceptance of implementing a BIMS in comparison to the original information system (OIS) among operating and supply room staff.

METHODS

This study was a comparative cohort design. A total of 80 staff members from the operating and supply rooms of a Northern Taiwan medical center were recruited. Data collection, conducted from January 2020 to August 2020 using a mobile-based structured questionnaire, included participant characteristics and the Information Management System Scale. SPSS (version 20.0, IBM Corp) for Windows (Microsoft Corporation) was used for data analysis. Descriptive statistics included mean, SD, frequency, and percentage. Differences between groups were analyzed using the Mann-Whitney U test and Kruskal-Wallis test, with a P value <.05 considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

The results indicated that the BIMS generally achieved higher scores in key elements of system success, system quality, information quality, perceived system use, perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, and overall quality score; none of these differences were statistically significant (P>.05), with the system quality subscale being closest to significance (P=.06). Nurses showed significantly better perceived system use than technicians (1.58, SD 4.78 vs –1.19, SD 6.24; P=.02). Significant differences in perceived usefulness were found based on educational level (P=.04) and experience with OIS (P=.03), with junior college-educated nurses and those with over 6 years of OIS experience reporting the highest perceived usefulness.

CONCLUSIONS

The study demonstrates that using the Agile development model for BIMS is advantageous for clinical environments. The high acceptance among operating room staff underscores its practicality and broader adoption potential. It advocates for continued exploration of technology-driven solutions to enhance health care delivery and optimize clinical workflows.
A Digital Reminiscence Intervention Program Using a Time-Traveling Road Map for Community-Dwelling Elderly with Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Pilot Study (Preprint)
Authors: Kim Yeon-Ha , Cho Chung-Min
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND

Mild Cognitive Impairment is a prevalent concern among the aging Korean population, with an urgent need for non-pharmacological interventions as a result of the lack of effective treatments.

OBJECTIVE

This pilot study aimed to evaluate the effects of a Roadmap Time-Traveling Intervention program, a digital reminiscence therapy intervention, on cognition, communication, and mood in older adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment.

METHODS

Fifty participants were randomly assigned to either the experimental or control group. Cognitive function, communication difficulties, quality of life, depression, and anxiety were assessed at baseline (T0), immediately after the intervention (T1), and four weeks post-intervention (T2). Generalized estimation equations were utilized to analyze the program’s effectiveness over time (T0-T1) between groups. Repeated measures analysis of variance or the Friedman/Wilcoxon signed-rank tests were employed to examine changes across the three time points (T0-T1-T2) within the experimental group. The study followed the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials guidelines.

RESULTS

The experimental group exhibited significant improvements in cognitive function (p < .001) and quality of life (p < .001) compared to the control group. Within the experimental group, cognitive function (Ⲭ² = 9.55, p = .008), communication difficulties (Ⲭ² = 8.57, p = .014), and quality of life (Ⲭ² = 3.35, p = .046) improved significantly across the three time points (T0-T1-T2).

CONCLUSIONS

The Roadmap Time-Traveling Intervention program, as a non-pharmacological digital reminiscence therapy intervention, demonstrated efficacy in enhancing cognitive function, reducing communication difficulties, and enhancing the quality of life in older adults with MCI. This program holds promises for broader implementation in community settings for elderly individuals with MCI.
Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder: A Mixed-Methods Study of Clinical Diagnosis and Demographic Trends (Preprint)
Authors: Combs Damont
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND

Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder (CSBD) is characterized by repetitive and intense sexual urges and behaviors that individuals find difficult to control, leading to significant distress and impairment in daily life. Although CSBD has been recognized in the ICD-11, there is ongoing debate regarding its classification, particularly whether it should be categorized as a behavioral addiction or an impulse control disorder. Additionally, questions about the neurobiological mechanisms involved in CSBD contribute to the complexity of diagnosis and treatment approaches.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study is to investigate the classification, diagnosis, and treatment efficacy of Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder (CSBD), focusing on its neurobiological underpinnings and the influence of cultural factors on diagnosis. The study also aims to provide a standardized diagnostic framework that can guide clinical and public health practices.

METHODS

This study employs a mixed-methods design, integrating both qualitative and quantitative approaches. We conducted semi-structured interviews with clinicians to gain insights into the diagnostic challenges and treatment practices for CSBD. We also reviewed existing literature on CSBD to contextualize the clinical findings, focusing on neurobiological mechanisms such as those identified through fMRI and EEG studies. Finally, a cross-sectional survey was performed to gather demographic and behavioral data from individuals diagnosed with CSBD.

RESULTS

The analysis suggests that CSBD aligns more closely with behavioral addiction, given its association with the brain's reward pathways, particularly dopamine dysregulation. Cultural factors emerged as a significant influence on the perception and diagnosis of CSBD, with clinicians reporting variability in how sexual behavior is judged across different populations. Moreover, a lack of long-term studies on treatment efficacy presents a gap in the current literature, making it difficult to determine the long-term success of therapeutic interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and pharmacological treatments (e.g., SSRIs).

CONCLUSIONS

The findings underscore the need for a standardized diagnostic framework for CSBD, one that accounts for both neurobiological and cultural factors. Standardizing the diagnosis could lead to more consistent treatment approaches and influence both clinical practices and public health policies. To address current gaps in the literature, future research should prioritize longitudinal studies that assess the durability of various treatment interventions, with a focus on integrating neurobiological data to further refine diagnostic and treatment protocols.

CLINICALTRIAL

this study is not a clinical trial, thus does not require registration
Study on the Problems and Countermeasures of Tourism Market Supervision in Ethnic Areas
Authors: Huang Ketian
Published: October 2024

Ethnic regions are increasingly capturing the attention of tourists, thanks to their unique cultural heritage and natural resources, thus becoming indispensable growth points in the tourism market. However, the rapid expansion of the tourism sector has imposed heightened demands on regulatory mechanisms. Currently, the tourism market in these regions faces a myriad of challenges, including insufficient oversight, a lack of transparency in information, and varying quality among market participants. These issues not only diminish the visitor experience but also impede the advancement of sustainable tourism development. Consequently, there is an urgent need for a comprehensive and effective regulatory strategy to standardize market order and ensure tourism quality. This study analyzes the current state and challenges of the tourism market in ethnic areas and proposes a series of targeted recommendations, including the enhancement of the regulatory framework, increased enforcement efforts, improved information transparency, and the elevation of participant quality. These strategies aim to foster the robust development of the tourism market, enhance visitor satisfaction, and achieve sustainable growth in the tourism industry of ethnic regions.
THE INFLUENCE OF MEDICATION THERAPY MANAGEMENT (MTM) ON CLINICAL OUTCOMES AND TREATMENT COMPLIANCE IN DIABETES MELLITUS PATIENTS: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW
Authors: SWANDARI MIKA TRI KUMALA , KARUNIAWATI HIDAYAH , CHOLISOH ZAKKY
Published: October 2024

This systematic review aims to determine the effect of MTM carried out by pharmacists on achieving medication adherence and clinical outcomes in diabetes mellitus patients. The journal search method was taken from PUBMED, Scopus, and Google Scholar using the keywords "diabetes mellitus", "DM", "medication therapy management", "MTM", "clinical outcome", "clinical results", "adherence", and " treatment compliance”. The research identified came from Indonesia, the United States, Ethiopia, Brazil, New Zealand, Japan, Lebanon, and Malaysia. Out of the 169 studies identified, twenty-five met the inclusion and exclusion criteria, consisting of 5 RCTs, seven cohorts, and 13 quasi-experiments. MTM improves compliance and clinical outcomes of DM patients. Compliance increased from 80.5% to 87.5% (p<0.05). The average HbA1c value decreased from 10.5 to 8.2 (p<0.05), the average systolic blood pressure (SBP) decreased from 142.7 mmHg to 135.6 mmHg (p<0.05), mean diastolic blood pressure (DBP) decreased from 89.9 mmHg to 83.6 mmHg (p<0.05), and mean fasting plasma glucose (FPG) decreased from 218.5 mg/dl to 142.4 mg/dl (p<0.05). Overall, this study shows that pharmacist-provided MTM services can improve clinical outcomes and medication adherence in patients with diabetes.
KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE, AND PRACTICE TOWARD COVID-19: COMMUNITY-BASED CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
Authors: YULIANTI TRI , KARUNIAWATI HIDAYAH , MUTMAINAH NURUL , DEWI LISTIANA MASYITA , ADANI AISYAH SHABRINA , SUSILOWATI TITIK
Published: October 2024

Objective: The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is a significant global health crisis affecting countries worldwide, including Indonesia. Enhancing the information, attitudes, and practices about COVID-19 prevention among the general community is crucial for preventing the spread of the pandemic. This study aimed to assess the Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice (KAP) regarding COVID-19 and associated factors among the general public in Central Java, Indonesia.
Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in two districts in Central Java Province from August to September 2020. The research questionnaire inquiries concerned the demographic data, knowledge, attitudes, and practices associated with COVID-19. Descriptive analysis was performed to evaluate demographic data. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression models were used to determine the factors associated with KAP.
Results: A total of 425 participants completed the survey questionnaire. Television and radio are the primary sources of information the public utilizes to acquire information regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. The participants showed a prevalence of 36% for good knowledge, 69% for a positive attitude, and 40.5% for adequate practice. Factors significantly associated with knowledge were gender [p = 0.038], level of education (primary school or below [p = 0.005], junior high school [p =<0.001, high school [p = 0.005]), and government employee [0.001]). Pensioners [p = 0.040], government employees [p = 0.000], and a good level of knowledge [p = 0.000] were significant factors influencing positive attitudes. Meanwhile, good knowledge [p =0.001], positive attitude [p=0.000], and being a housewife [p=0.035] were crucial determinants of practice.
Conclusion: This study found that the population's knowledge and practice level are sufficient, but they have a positive attitude. To address this, targeted health education and interventions from healthcare professionals are necessary to improve their understanding.
Estimation of rice area in KWD region using geospatial tools
Authors: Surya M. Sri
Published: October 2024

The estimation of crop areas was recognized as crucial for assessing agricultural production, supporting food security, and guiding policy decisions. In India, rice cultivation was particularly significant, especially in Andhra Pradesh, where remote sensing technologies like Landsat 9 improved the accuracy of mapping and monitoring crop areas compared to traditional field survey methods. These advancements helped optimize resource allocation, enhance market forecasting, and detect shifts in cropping patterns. The study aimed to estimate rice area in the KWD region during the kharif season of 2023 using geospatial tools. A combination of satellite imagery and ground truth data was employed. Landsat 9 data were utilized to estimate rice areas during the kharif season, and this data was processed using ENVI software. The Random Forest classification method was applied to distinguish rice areas, achieving an overall accuracy of 94.3% with a Kappa coefficient of 0.81, indicating almost perfect agreement. The total rice area in the study region was estimated at 127,565 ha, with the largest area recorded in Bapatla (12,299 ha) and the smallest in Pedanandipadu (3 ha). A 4.4% underestimation was observed when compared to the Department of Agriculture (DoA) statistics, which reported 133,402 ha.
Development of an instructional design model for elementary school students with dyslexia to learn Korean language
Authors:   Korean Association For Learner-Centered Curriculum And Instruction, Kim Mijeong , Nam Changwoo , Lee Minhyo , Lee Sua
Published: October 2024

Objectives This study developed an instructional design model for systematic guidance of Korean language acquisition for elementary school students with dyslexia.
Methods In order to develop an instructional design model suitable for dyslexic elementary school students, a draft instructional design model was developed based on the ADDIE model through analysis of previous studies. For the derived model, a total of three Delphi surveys were conducted on a panel of experts, and for the final model, a validity evaluation was conducted in five areas: validity, explanatory power, specificity, expressive power, and usefulness.
Results The results of the Delphi survey of the instructional design model for understanding Korean for dyslexic elementary school students derived through this study are as follows. First, according to the analysis, design, development, execution, and evaluation procedures of the ADDIE model, the components to be carried out before, during, and after class were developed. Second, looking at the step-by-step implementation strategy for dyslexic elementary school students, the pre-class stage consisted of learner analysis, task analysis, demand analysis, environmental analysis, learning goal design, teaching strategy and method design, evaluation design, learner support design, teaching/learning material development, and learner support plan development. In-class activities consisted of stages before and during class execution, and in post-class activities, learner evaluation and program evaluation were performed.
Conclusions The instructional design model developed through this study developed an instructional design model for teaching dyslexic elementary school students according to the step-by-step characteristics of the ADDIE model. In the case of dyslexic elementary school students, it is of paramount importance to consider individual learner characteristics and environment. Therefore, the instructor's learning guidance should be conducted based on the systematically developed instructional design model. Therefore, the instructional design model developed in this study is meaningful in that it can be used as meaningful data as basic data for teaching and learning activities in conducting Korean language understanding education for dyslexic elementary school students.
The effect of Child-Care Teacher's Self-efficacy and Work Environment on Job Crafting
Authors:   Korean Association For Learner-Centered Curriculum And Instruction, Yoo Jin-Young , Kim Jung-Eun
Published: October 2024

Objectives The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of childcare teachers' self-efficacy and work environment on job crafting.
Methods To this end, a survey was conducted among 425 childcare teachers working at childcare0 centers in the Busan and Gyeongnam regions. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS 24.0, employing descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and multiple regression analysis.
Results First, childcare teachers' perceived self-efficacy averaged 3.46 out of 5, their work environment averaged 3.30, and job crafting averaged 3.81. Second, it was found that there are significant correlations between childcare teachers' self-efficacy, work environment, and overall job crafting as well as all its sub-factors. Third, the self-efficacy and work environment of childcare teachers explained 56.4% of task crafting, 58.3% of cognitive crafting, 60.9% of relational crafting, and 63.7% of collaborative crafting, which are sub-factors of job crafting. Among these sub-factors, self-regulatory efficacy, relationships with colleagues, and support for teacher professionalism were found to have a significant positive impact, with self-regulatory efficacy being the most explanatory.
Conclusions To enhance the quality of childcare services and the professional development of childcare teachers, it is suggested that foundational data be prepared for strategies to promote job crafting among childcare teachers. Additionally, there is a need for various teacher training programs to improve teachers' self-efficacy and for institutional support to enhance the work environment.
A Study on the Temporal Changes in Course Evaluation of Good University Instruction
Authors:   Korean Association For Learner-Centered Curriculum And Instruction, YUN Ga-young , PARK Innwoo
Published: October 2024

Objectives This study aims to explore the characteristics of courses and the changing perceptions of them over time as “good instruction.”
Methods For this study, an open-ended survey was conducted to develop questions regarding the survey tools used in the analysis. The survey included 141 respondents who had taken classes at a university and participated in course evaluations. To achieve this purpose, content analysis was first attempted through an open survey. Accordingly, the survey tool for this study was prepared based on the results of content analysis, and ranking multiple response analysis and frequency analysis were conducted.
Results The results of this study showed as follows: First, this study finds that the perception of instruction may change over time. Second, the important attributes listed by students whose perceptions have changed included “practical help” and “course content.” Specifically, courses that were initially perceived as containing good instruction but are no longer perceived as such were “less practical” and “less enlightening.” However, courses that were not initially perceived as containing good instruction were later found to be “enlightening” and “practical,” though they had “an inappropriate number of assignments.”
Conclusions This study highlights that there are still limitations to students' understanding of the learning process when they are enrolled in courses. It also emphasizes the ongoing debate surrounding the validity and reliability of students' course evaluations. We propose that efforts are needed to help students experience truly good instruction.
The effects of supervisees' fear of negative evaluation on self-disclosure: the dual mediating effects of perceived supervisor authenticity & emotional connection
Authors:   Korean Association For Learner-Centered Curriculum And Instruction, Cho Younghee , Kim Sooim
Published: October 2024

Objectives This study examined the role of perceived supervisor authenticity and emotional connection in the relationship between supervisees' fear of negative evaluation and self-disclosure.
Methods Supervisees in counseling training were administered an online survey of fear of negative evaluation, perceived supervisor authenticity, emotional connection, supervisor self-disclosure scale, and demographic questions, and mediation and indirect effects were examined using bootstrapping in Process Macro.
Results First, fear of negative evaluation was negatively related to perceived supervisor authenticity, emotional connection, and supervisee self-disclosure. Perceived supervisor authenticity was positively related to emotional connectedness and supervisee self-disclosure, and emotional connectedness and supervisee self-disclosure were positively related. Second, a single mediation effect test revealed a significant mediating effect of perceived supervisor authenticity on the effect of fear of negative evaluation on supervisee self-disclosure, but the mediating effect of emotional connectedness was not significant. Third, the results of the dual mediation test revealed a significant dual mediation effect of perceived supervisor authenticity and emotional connection on the effect of fear of negative supervisor evaluation on self-disclosure.
Conclusions To increase supervisee self-disclosure, supervisors need to make an effort to be authentic and communicate, and supervisees need to make an effort to lower their fear of negative evaluation, perceive the supervisor's authenticity, and develop an emotional connection.
Elementary Teachers' Perceptions on the Adoption of AI Digital Textbooks
Authors:   Korean Association For Learner-Centered Curriculum And Instruction, Choi Seoyeon , Cha Nari , Jung Hyunseo , Noh Hannah , Kim Daekwon
Published: October 2024

Objectives The purpose of this study is to investigate and analyze elementary school teachers' perceptions, expectations, and concerns about AI digital textbooks. This will contribute to understanding the various perspectives teachers have on the introduction of AI digital textbooks and help develop practical support measures based on these insights.
Methods This study employed a concurrent nested mixed method design to collect quantitative and qualitative data simultaneously. A survey was conducted to analyze the perceptions of 163 elementary school teachers regarding AI digital textbooks, and additional qualitative data was collected through open-ended questions.
Results The study found that teachers expressed more concerns than positive expectations about AI digital textbooks overall. Concerns were particularly prominent in physical, ethical, and social aspects, with teachers worried about issues such as deteriorating eyesight, personal information leakage, and widening digital divide. On the other hand, they had positive expectations regarding technological convenience, administrative efficiency, and the possibility of personalized education.
Conclusions The conclusions of the study are as follows. First, effective measures are needed to reduce the administrative and technological burden associated with AI digital textbooks. Second, long-term tracking studies and investigations are necessary to assess the physical impact of AI digital textbooks. Long-term impact assessment studies are needed to closely examine and evaluate the effects of AI digital textbook introduction and use on students' physical health. Third, strong security policies are required to address ethical issues such as personal information leakage, cheating, and plagiarism. Fourth, AI digital textbooks should incorporate teachers' expectations in their development to become teaching tools that teachers voluntarily want to use. Additionally, the study emphasizes participatory design by teachers and discusses their role as active policy shapers rather than passive policy implementers.
Algumas reflexões sobre a crítica textual na Itália: metodologias, fundamentos e desafios
Authors: Khede Raphael Salomão
Published: October 2024

O presente ensaio tem como objetivo discutir a crítica textual a partir de três linhas gerais, desenvolvidas no contexto filológico italiano: sua fundamentação teórica, sua metodologia e os rumos da disciplina na era da informática. Para tal, serão levados em consideração três textos fundamentais: o clássico Principi di critica testuale, de D’Arco Silvio Avalle; Fondamenti di critica testuale, de Alfredo Stussi e Gli orizzonti dell’ecdotica, de Francisco Rico.
Um sobrevoo por Terra Crua: para a gênese da obra de autoria de Jorge Ferreira Duque Estrada
Authors: Pereira Helcius , Módolo Marcelo
Published: October 2024

No presente artigo, apresentamos alguns dos resultados de nossos estudos sobre a gênese do livro Terra crua, escrito por Jorge Ferreira Duque Estrada. Essa obra foi a primeira a ser publicada sobre a História de Maringá-PR. Duque Estrada foi testemunha da formação da cidade e participante ativo dos fatos da primeira eleição municipal, temas abordados pelo autor em seu livro em tom memorialístico. Nossa pesquisa foi baseada na abordagem da Crítica Genética, apoiando-nos em Biasi (2010) e Pino e Zular (2007). Comparamos a versão publicada pelo autor em 1961 com o seu manuscrito, intitulado Originais do livro Terra Crua, composto por dois datiloscritos revisados à mão pelo autor. Além disso, analisamos uma carta datilografada que Duque Estrada enviou a Luiz Moreira de Carvalho, prefeito de Maringá, em 1966. A partir disso, discutimos as motivações do autor para publicação do livro destacando sua pretensão de “fotografar” os primeiros momentos da cidade, uma visão sobre a obra que será acentuada após a publicação de Terra crua, nos discursos de acadêmicos, memorialistas e agentes do poder público local. Por fim, avaliaremos algumas das inclusões e das exclusões de temas realizadas pelo autor no manuscrito, explorando suas possíveis motivações e seus desdobramentos.
Implicaturas escalares na aquisição de português brasileiro: uma análise da Teoria da Otimidade para o conectivo “ou”
Authors: Torres Jonathan , Grolla Elaine
Published: October 2024

Quando “ou” é proferido em uma sentença, em princípio, as leituras “A ou B, mas não ambos” (exclusiva) e “A ou B e possivelmente ambos” (inclusiva) são possíveis. A literatura em aquisição tem detectado uma assimetria no comportamento infantil. Por um lado, crianças em idade pré-escolar, diferentemente dos adultos, aceitam o equivalente de “ou”, nas línguas testadas, em contextos onde “e” seria mais adequado (TIEU et al., 2017; SKORDOS et al., 2020). Por outro lado, crianças adquirindo inglês produzem “ou-exclusivo” antes dos quatro anos (MORRIS, 2008; EITELJÖRGE; POUSCOULOUS; LIEVEN, 2018). Este trabalho argumenta que a Teoria da Otimidade (OT) pode explicar essa assimetra na linguagem infantil, onde a produção ocorre antes da compreensão. Focando no Português Brasileiro (PB), foi investigado o comportamento linguístico infantil na produção de “ou”. Foram analisados dois corpora de fala infantil: um com 119 horas de gravações espontâneas envolvendo quatro crianças entre 2;0 e 5;6 anos, e outro com 51 horas de gravações que contou com sete crianças entre 4;3 e 9;0 anos. Os resultados corroboram os achados para o inglês, observando a primeira produção de “ou-exclusivo” aos 2;4 anos. Para dar conta dos resultados, é proposta uma extensão da análise, partindo da OT, de Mognon et al. (2021), para o “some” ao “ou”. A otimização unidirecional é incapaz de selecionar um output vencedor e, para o cálculo de implicatura, é necessário que a otimização bidirecional entre em cena. A partir dessa análise, será argumentado que a otimização bidirecional é adquirida tardiamente no desenvolvimento infantil, podendo explicar os achados da literatura que apontam para a assimetria entre produção e compreensão.
The mediating effect of play teaching efficacy in the relationship between childcare teacher's grit and play support competency
Authors:   The Korea Associantion For Early Childhood Education Administration, Kim Hak Jae , Lee Yon Sil
Published: October 2024

This The purpose of this study is to verify the mediating effect of play teaching efficacy in the relationship between grit recognized by daycare center childcare teachers and play support capabilities. To this end, data were collected from 257 childcare teachers, and the main research results are as follows.
First, it was found that the grit of daycare center childcare teachers had a statistically significant positive (+) effect on the play support competency. Second, it was found that the grit of daycare center childcare teachers had a statistically significant positive (+) effect on the play teaching efficacy. Third, the play teaching efficacy of daycare center childcare teachers had a statistically significant positive (+) effect on the play support competency. Finally, it was found that the grit of daycare center teachers had a statistically significant effect on the play support competency through the play teaching efficacy as a medium.
Based on the above research results, this study aims to provide basic data to effectively improve the play support capabilities of childcare teachers, and to prepare important guidelines for implementing infant and play-oriented curriculum in childcare sites.
The Impact of Accessibility to Community Public Leisure Facilities and Social Support on Mothers' Parenting Stress
Authors:   The Korea Associantion For Early Childhood Education Administration, Chi Myong-Won , Lee Ju-Yeon
Published: October 2024

This study aimed to examine the impact of accessibility to public leisure facilities and social support on mothers' parenting stress. An analysis was conducted on 1,296 mothers of 6th-grade children in the 13th wave (2020) of the Panel Study on Korean Children (PSKC). The results are as follows: First, the higher the accessibility to public leisure facilities in the community, the lower the stress related to the mother's parental role and overall parenting stress. Second, it was found that the higher the level of social support for the mother, the less stress related to their parental role and overall parenting stress. In particular, emotional support was proved to be the most influential, and it was verified that providing intimacy and trust first for raising children is an important factor that can reduce parenting stress. The findings of this study validate that enhancing accessibility to community leisure facilities and strengthening various social supports can reduce parenting stress for mothers with upper-grade elementary school children. This confirms the social importance of leisure support and suggests the significance of interventions through social relationship support to reduce parenting stress.
Hybrid worlds of imagination: A comparative analysis of demonological narratives among rural communities in Croatia and Serbia
Authors: Seso Luka , Trbojevic Danilo
Published: October 2024

The co-authored text by Luka Seso and Danilo Trbojevic represents a unique
comparative analysis of ethnographic material, relating to the form, role,
and status of demonological traditions in rural communities of Croatia and
Serbia. The research focuses on the relationship between folklore and the
belief systems woven into the traditions of rural communities with varying
demographic structures, historical experiences, cultural identities, and
social realities centered around the ideas of local ontologies defined by
coexistence with supernatural beings and phenomena. These communities are,
in the context of this study, viewed through the lens of adaptability to
coexistence with the global cultural flows of the postmodern world. Through
understanding the impact of the broader social, political, and cultural
context on the cultural identity of local communities, the authors aim to
contribute to the understanding of the influence of changes (both local and
global) in the cultural and social environment on the needs, aspirations,
and logics of community members crucial for the survival, form, and status
of the world of supernatural beings in rural imagination.
When Does Metabolic Memory Start? Insights From the Association of Medical Diabetologists Annals Initiative on Stringent HbA1c Targets
Authors: Russo Giuseppina T. , Nicolucci Antonio , Lucisano Giuseppe , Rossi Maria Chiara , Ceriello Antonio , Prattichizzo Francesco , Manicardi Valeria , Rocca Alberto , Di Bartolo Paolo , De Cosmo Salvatore , Di Cianni Graziano , Candido Riccardo
Published: October 2024

Early, intensive glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) is associated with long-term benefits in cardiovascular disease (CVD) development. Evidence on benefits of achieving HbA1c targets close to normal values is scant. Individuals with newly diagnosed T2D, without CVD at baseline, were identified in an Italian clinical registry (n = 251,339). We adopted three definitions of early exposure periods (0–1, 0–2, and 0–3 years). Mean HbA1c was categorized into HbA1c <5.7%, 5.7–6.4%, 6.5–7.0%, 7.1–8.0%, and >8.0%. The outcome was the incidence of major cardiovascular events. After a mean follow-up of 4.6 ± 2.9 years, at multivariate Cox regression analysis, compared with mean HbA1c <5.7% during the first year after diagnosis, the increase in the risk of CVD was 24%, 42%, 49%, and 56% for patients with HbA1c of 5.7–6.4%, 6.5–7.0%, 7.1–8.0%, and >8.0%, respectively. The same trend was documented in all exposure periods. In conclusion, our data support that an early achievement of stringent targets of HbA1c <5.7% is worthy for CVD prevention.

Article Highlights
Evaluating the Causal Effect of Circulating Proteome on Glycemic Traits: Evidence From Mendelian Randomization
Authors: Xing Xing , Xu Siqi , Wang Yining , Shen Ziyuan , Wen Simin , Zhang Yan , Ruan Guangfeng , Cai Guoqi
Published: October 2024

Exploring the mechanisms underlying abnormal glycemic traits is important for deciphering type 2 diabetes and characterizing novel drug targets. This study aimed to decipher the causal associations of circulating proteins with fasting glucose (FG), 2-h glucose after an oral glucose challenge (2hGlu), fasting insulin (FI), and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) using large-scale proteome-wide Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses. Genetic data on plasma proteomes were obtained from 10 proteomic genome-wide association studies. Both cis-protein quantitative trait loci (pQTLs) and cis + trans-pQTLs MR analyses were conducted. Bayesian colocalization, Steiger filtering analysis, assessment of protein-altering variants, and mapping expression QTLs to pQTLs were performed to investigate the reliability of the MR findings. Protein-protein interaction, pathway enrichment analysis, and evaluation of drug targets were performed. Thirty-three proteins were identified with causal effects on FG, FI, or HbA1c but not 2hGlu in the cis-pQTL analysis, and 93 proteins had causal effects on glycemic traits in the cis + trans-pQTLs analysis. Most proteins were either considered druggable or drug targets. In conclusion, many novel circulating protein biomarkers were identified to be causally associated with glycemic traits. These biomarkers enhance the understanding of molecular etiology and provide insights into the screening, monitoring, and treatment of diabetes.

Article Highlights
Multiomic Mendelian Randomization Study Investigating the Impact of PCSK9 and HMGCR Inhibition on Type 2 Diabetes Across Five Populations
Authors: Rosoff Daniel B. , Wagner Josephin , Jung Jeesun , Pacher Pal , Christodoulides Constantinos , Davey Smith George , Ray David , Lohoff Falk W.
Published: October 2024

The prevalence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) varies among populations of different races/ethnicities. The influence of genetically proxied LDL cholesterol lowering through proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin 9 (PCSK9) and HMG-CoA reductase (HMGCR) on T2D in non-European populations is not well established. A drug target Mendelian randomization approach was used to assess the effects of PCSK9 and HMGCR inhibition on T2D risk and glycemic traits in five populations: East Asian (EAS), South Asian (SAS), Hispanic (HISP), African (AFR), and Europe (EUR). Our study did not find relationships between genetically proxied PCSK9 inhibition and T2D risk in the EAS (odds ratio [OR] 1.02; 95% CI 0.95–1.10), SAS (1.05; 0.97–1.14), HISP (1.03; 0.94–1.12), or EUR population (1.04; 0.98–1.11). However, in the AFR population, primary analyses suggested an increased risk of T2D resulting from PCSK9 inhibition (OR 1.53; 95% CI 1.058–2.22; P = 0.024), although this was not supported in sensitivity analyses. Genetically proxied HMGCR inhibition was associated with an increased risk of T2D in SAS (OR 1.44; 95% CI 1.30–1.61; P = 9.8 × 10−12), EAS (1.36; 1.22–1.51; P = 4.2 × 10−10), and EUR populations (1.52; 1.21–1.90; P = 3.3 × 10−4). These results were consistent across various sensitivity analyses, including colocalization, indicating a robust finding. The findings indicate a neutral impact of long-term PCSK9 inhibition on T2D and glycemic markers in most non-EUR populations, with a potential increased risk in AFR cohorts. By contrast, HMGCR inhibition increased the risk of T2D in SAS, EAS, and EUR cohorts, underscoring the need to consider diversity in genetic research on metabolic diseases.

Article Highlights
One-Hour Postload Glucose Is a More Sensitive Marker of Impaired β-Cell Function Than Two-Hour Postload Glucose
Authors: Lu Jingyi , Ni Jiaying , Su Hang , He Xingxing , Lu Wei , Zhu Wei , Wang Yufei , Ma Xiaojing , Bao Yuqian , Zhou Jian
Published: October 2024

There is evidence that 1-h plasma glucose (PG) concentration during the 75-g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) is superior to 2-h PG level in predicting diabetes. We investigated the characteristics of insulin sensitivity and β-cell function behind this observation. After age, sex, and BMI matching, 496 study participants selected from 3,965 individuals without diabetes who were at high risk of type 2 diabetes in a tertiary medical center were categorized into four groups in a 1:1:1:1 ratio based on OGTT results: 1) 1-h PG level <8.6 mmol/L and 2-h PG level <7.8 mmol/L (normal glucose tolerance [NGT]/1h-normal); 2) 1-h PG level ≥8.6 mmol/L and 2-h level <7.8 mmol/L (NGT/1h-high); 3) 1-h PG level <8.6 mmol/L and 2-h level ≥7.8 mmol/L (impaired glucose tolerance [IGT]/1h-normal); and 4) 1 h PG level ≥8.6 mmol/L and 2-h level ≥7.8 mmol/L. Compared with participants with IGT/1h-normal, those with NGT/1h-high had a similar extent of insulin resistance but lower early-phase insulin secretion. Additionally, participants with NGT/1h-high had a lower disposition index at both 0–30 min and 0–120 min than those with IGT/1h-normal. The fitted regression line relating PG to log-transformed disposition index (0–30 min and 0–120 min) was significantly steeper for 1-h than 2-h PG. In conclusion, 1-h PG seemed to be more sensitive to the deterioration in β-cell function than was 2-h PG. The use of 1-h PG may identify individuals at high risk of type 2 diabetes at an earlier stage.

Article Highlights
Functionally Separate Populations of Ventromedial Hypothalamic Neurons in Obesity and Diabetes: A Report on Research Supported by Pathway to Stop Diabetes
Authors: Flak Jonathan N.
Published: October 2024

The ventromedial hypothalamic nucleus (VMN) maintains healthy metabolic function through several important roles. Collectively, homeostasis is maintained via intermingled cells within the VMN that raise blood glucose, lower blood glucose, and stimulate energy expenditure when needed. In this article I discuss the defining factors for the VMN cell types that govern distinct functions induced by the VMN, particularly in relation to energy balance and blood glucose levels. Special attention is given to distinct features of VMN cells responsible for these processes. Finally, these topics are reviewed in the context of research funded by the American Diabetes Association Pathway to Stop Diabetes initiative, with highlighting of key findings and current unresolved questions for future investigations.