bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of host protein ENO1 (alpha-enolase) interacting with Cryptosporidium parvum sporozoite surface protein, Cpgp40
Authors: Wang Yuexin , Li Na , Liang Guanda , Wang Luyang , Zhang Xiaotian , Cui Zhaohui , Li Xiaoying , Zhang Sumei , Zhang Longxian
Published: March 2024

Background

Cryptosporidium parvum is an apicomplexan zoonotic parasite causing the diarrheal illness cryptosporidiosis in humans and animals. To invade the host intestinal epithelial cells, parasitic proteins expressed on the surface of sporozoites interact with host cells to facilitate the formation of parasitophorous vacuole for the parasite to reside and develop. The gp40 of C. parvum, named Cpgp40 and located on the surface of sporozoites, was proven to participate in the process of host cell invasion.

Methods

We utilized the purified Cpgp40 as a bait to obtain host cell proteins interacting with Cpgp40 through the glutathione S-transferase (GST) pull-down method. In vitro analysis, through bimolecular fluorescence complementation assay (BiFC) and coimmunoprecipitation (Co-IP), confirmed the solid interaction between Cpgp40 and ENO1. In addition, by using protein mutation and parasite infection rate analysis, it was demonstrated that ENO1 plays an important role in the C. parvum invasion of HCT-8 cells.

Results

To illustrate the functional activity of Cpgp40 interacting with host cells, we identified the alpha-enolase protein (ENO1) from HCT-8 cells, which showed direct interaction with Cpgp40. The mRNA level of ENO1 gene was significantly decreased at 3 and 24 h after C. parvum infection. Antibodies and siRNA specific to ENO1 showed the ability to neutralize C. parvum infection in vitro, which indicated the participation of ENO1 during the parasite invasion of HCT-8 cells. In addition, we further demonstrated that ENO1 protein was involved in the regulation of cytoplasmic matrix of HCT-8 cells during C. parvum invasion. Functional study of the protein mutation illustrated that ENO1 was also required for the endogenous development of C. parvum.

Conclusions

In this study, we utilized the purified Cpgp40 as a bait to obtain host cell proteins ENO1 interacting with Cpgp40. Functional studies illustrated that the host cell protein ENO1 was involved in the regulation of tight junction and adherent junction proteins during C. parvum invasion and was required for endogenous development of C. parvum.

Graphical Abstract
Factors associated with vaccine hesitancy against COVID-19 among adults in Europe: a descriptive study analysis applying socio-ecological framework
Authors: Nagase Megumi
Published: March 2024

Objective

This study aimed to explore the factors associated with COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in Europe among adults by using the Socio-Ecological Model.

Results

This cross-sectional study used secondary data collected from respondents residing in 27 EU countries at the time of May 2021. The outcome was vaccine hesitancy against COVID-19, and the total sample size of 23,606 was analysed by binary logistic regression, as well as McKelvey and Zavonoia’s R2. After adding each level of variables, the model found the significant and increased association with vaccine hesitancy in younger age groups (21–39 years and 40–60 years vs. 65 years+), who left full-time education at a young age (16–19 years), those with manual jobs, those with children at home, individuals residing in small towns, and beliefs related to the vaccine. Together, the levels explained 49.5% of the variance associated with vaccine hesitancy, and the addition to each variable layer increased the variance. This highlights the need to consider broad factors at multiple levels to enhance vaccine acceptance and uptake.
Association of glucose-lowering drug target and risk of gastrointestinal cancer: a mendelian randomization study
Authors: Yang Yi , Chen Bo , Zheng Chongming , Zeng Hao , Zhou Junxi , Chen Yaqing , Su Qing , Wang Jingxian , Wang Juejin , Wang Yurong , Wang Hongli , Jin Ruxue , Bo Zhiyuan , Chen Gang , Wang Yi
Published: March 2024

Background & Aims

Glucose-lowering drug is associated with various cancers, but the causality with gastrointestinal cancer risk is rarely reported. We aimed to explore the causality between them in this Mendelian randomization (MR) study.

Methods

Two-sample MR, summary-data-based (SMR), mediation MR, and colocalization analyses was employed. Ten glucose-lowering drug targets (PPARG, DPP4, GLP1R, INSR, SLC5A2, ABCC8, KCNJ11, ETFDH, GPD2, PRKAB1) and seven types of gastrointestinal cancer (anal carcinoma, cardia cancer, gastric cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC), pancreatic cancer, rectum cancer) were included. Patients with gastrointestinal cancers from six different large GWAS databases, including the UK Biobank and Finnish cohorts were incorporated, for discovery and external validation. Meta-analysis was employed to integrate the results from both discovery and validation cohorts, thereby ensuring the reliability of findings.

Results

ABCC8/KCNJ11 were associated with pancreatic cancer risk in both two-sample MR (odds ratio (OR): 15.058, per standard deviation unit (SD) change of glucose-lowering durg target perturbation equivalent to 1 SD unit of HbA1c lowering; 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 3.824–59.295; P-value = 0.0001) and SMR (OR: 1.142; 95% CI: 1.013–1.287; P-value = 0.030) analyses. The mediation effect of body mass index (OR: 0.938; 95% CI: 0.884–0.995; proportion of mediation effect: 3.001%; P-value = 0.033) on ABCC8/KCNJ11 and pancreatic cancer was uncovered. Strong connections of DPP4 with anal carcinoma (OR: 0.123; 95% CI: 0.020–0.745; P-value = 0.023) and ICC (OR: 7.733; 95% CI: 1.743–34.310; P-value = 0.007) were detected. PPARG was associated with anal carcinoma (OR: 12.909; 95% CI: 3.217–51.795; P-value = 0.0003), HCC (OR: 36.507; 95% CI: 8.929-149.259; P-value < 0.0001), and pancreatic cancer (OR: 0.110; 95% CI: 0.071–0.172; P-value < 0.0001). SLC5A2 was connected with pancreatic cancer (OR: 8.096; 95% CI: 3.476–18.857; P-value < 0.0001). Weak evidence indicated the connections of GLP1R, GPD2, and PRKAB1 with anal carcinoma, cardia cancer, ICC, and rectum cancer. In addition, the corresponding results were consistently validated in both the validation cohorts and the integrated outcomes.

Conclusions

Some glucose-lowering drugs were associated with gastrointestinal cancer risk, which might provide new ideas for gastrointestinal cancer treatment.
On the qualitative behaviors of stochastic delay integro-differential equations of second order
Authors: Mahmoud Ayman M. , Tunç Cemil
Published: March 2024

In this paper, we investigate the sufficient conditions that guarantee the stability, continuity, and boundedness of solutions for a type of second-order stochastic delay integro-differential equation (SDIDE).

To demonstrate the main results, we employ a Lyapunov functional. An example is provided to demonstrate the applicability of the obtained result, which includes the results of this paper and obtains better results than those available in the literature.
Treatment of alcohol use disorder in patients with alcohol-associated liver disease: Innovative approaches and a call to action
Authors: Haque Lamia Y. , Zuluaga Paola , Muga Robert , Fuster Daniel
Published: March 2024

Alcohol-associated liver disease is currently the leading cause of liver transplantation and liver deaths both in Europe and the United States. Efficacious treatments exist for alcohol use disorder, but they are seldomly prescribed for patients who need them. Besides, the presence of liver cirrhosis can complicate pharmacological treatment choices. In this review, we discuss established and innovative treatment strategies to treat unhealthy alcohol use in patients with alcohol-associated liver disease. We also describe the experience of our own institutions, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol in Badalona (Spain) and Yale-New Haven Health and Yale Medicine (Connecticut. United States of America).
Determining the role of innovative teaching practices, sustainable learning, and the adoption of e-learning tools in leveraging academic motivation for students’ mental well-being
Authors: Li Jiuxiang , Wang Rufeng
Published: March 2024

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about significant changes in the educational landscape, with a significant shift towards e-learning and remote teaching practices. As such, it has become increasingly important to understand the role of innovative teaching practices, sustainable learning, and the adoption of e-learning tools in leveraging academic motivation for students’ mental well-being.

Purpose

The study aims to determine whether academic motivation can helpful for mental wellbeing of students directly and through the adoption of e-learning tools, and sustainable learning considering the role of innovative teaching.

Methods

Target population of this research were the students of Chinese universities. Data was collected from 308 students and was analyzed by using Mplus software.

Results

Students expressed higher motivation, quality education and good mental health. Additionally, it was discovered that academic motivation helped the students to develop good academic record and mental health.

Conclusion

The research’s conclusions can help the policy makers creating successful educational initiatives and programs that promote students’ overall growth. These results can also guide the university administration and teachers to adopt effective policies and practices for creating academic motivation in order to construct a healthy environment not just for better academic results but also for the well-being of students. Additionally, this research draws attention of future researchers to explore mechanisms that can drive students’ academic and psychological outcomes.
Review and interlaboratory comparison of the Oddy test methodology
Authors: Díaz Ivan , Alvarez-Martin Alba , Grau-Bové Josep , Norrehed Sara , Salvadori Barbara , Kraševec Ida , Duran-Romero Daniel , Cano Emilio
Published: March 2024

Since the introduction of the Oddy test in 1973, many museums and cultural institutions have put the method in use, developing their own versions and protocols. Currently the 3-in-1 version, temperature at 60 ºC and 2 g of tested material are set as common practice; however, other variables of the test are not standardized. The purpose of this study is to examine current versions of the Oddy test, to identify differences in the results derived from variations in the procedures, and ultimately raising awareness within the conservation community to work together towards a standardized protocol. In this article, we review the available information on the methodological differences in Oddy test protocols published in the literature related to glassware cleaning, coupon preparation, reaction vessel setup and rating of materials. Based on the review, and to highlight the many variables that could affect the results of the test, seven European cultural institutions working under the H2020 IPERION HS project performed a comparative 3-in-1 Oddy test by blindly evaluating the same ten materials. Each institution used its own test methodology but some guidelines were advised: (1) Detergents as a cleaning procedure for glassware, (2) P600 sandpaper or micromesh pad close to 1500 to prepare metal coupons and (3) 1:100 as water–air ratio. Despite this, differences between institutions’ results were still observed. Some of them are due to the differences in the coupons preparation, either in the sanding pattern or in the edge area. In order to separate the contribution of the experimental setup and the subjectivity of the evaluation in the discrepancies, coupons from all institutions have been rated by a single team of judges with experience in the Oddy Test. Results show that differences in the evaluation criteria play a relevant role in the discrepancies of the results, especially for institutions with less experience in the test. These results highlight the need to further standardize the methodology and criteria for visual assessment. Nevertheless, the Oddy test has been found to be reliable for the identification of materials that produce emissions hazardous for the conservation of cultural assets.
Multifactorial effects on bounded rational decision-making
Authors: Han Dun , Li Xiang
Published: March 2024

Conventional models of decision-making are predicated upon the notion of rational deliberation. However, empirical evidence has increasingly highlighted the pervasive role of bounded rationality in shaping decisional outcomes. The manifestation of bounded rationality is evident through a spectrum of cognitive biases and heuristics, including but not limited to anchoring, availability, the decoy effect, herd behavior, and the nuanced dynamics of reward and punishment, as well as the implications of weighting and framing effects. This prospective study is dedicated to a comprehensive exploration of such multiple factors together with their impacts to the architecture and functionality of decision-making processes, and their further research potentials as well.
Plasma Ceramides and Other Sphingolipids in Relation to Incident Prediabetes in a Longitudinal Biracial Cohort
Authors: Dagogo-Jack Samuel , Asuzu Peace , Wan Jim , Grambergs Richard , Stentz Frankie , Mandal Nawajes
Published: March 2024

Context

Sphingolipids are linked to the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes.

Objective

To test the hypothesis that plasma sphingolipid profiles predict incident prediabetes.

Design

A case-control study nested in the Pathobiology of Prediabetes in a Biracial Cohort study, a 5-year follow-up study.

Setting

Academic health center.

Participants

Normoglycemic adults enrolled in the Pathobiology of Prediabetes in a Biracial Cohort study. Assessments included oral glucose tolerance test, insulin sensitivity, and insulin secretion. Participants with incident prediabetes were matched in age, sex, and ethnicity with nonprogressors.

Interventions

We assayed 58 sphingolipid species (ceramides, monohexosyl ceramides, sphingomyelins, and sphingosine) using liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry in baseline plasma levels from participants and determined association with prediabetes risk.

Main Outcome Measure

The primary outcome was progression from normoglycemia to prediabetes, defined as impaired fasting glucose or impaired glucose tolerance.

Results

The mean age of participants (N = 140; 50% Black, 50% female) was 48.1 ± 8.69 years, body mass index 30.1 ± 5.78 kg/m2, fasting plasma glucose 92.7 ± 5.84 mg/dL, and 2-hour plasma glucose 121 ± 23.3 mg/dL. Of the 58 sphingolipid species assayed, higher ratios of sphingomyelin C26:0/C26:1 (OR, 2.73 [95% CI, 1.172-4.408], P = .015) and ceramide C18:0/C18:1 (OR, 1.236 [95% CI, 1.042-1.466], P = .015) in baseline plasma specimens were significantly associated with progression to prediabetes during the 5-year follow-up period, after adjustments for age, race, sex, body mass index, fasting plasma glucose, 2-hour plasma glucose, insulin sensitivity, and insulin secretion.

Conclusion

We conclude that the saturated-to-monounsaturated ratios of long-chain ceramide C18:0/C18:1 and very-long-chain sphingomyelin C26:0/C26:1 are potential biomarkers of prediabetes risk among individuals with parental history of type 2 diabetes.
Time Trends in Liver-Related Mortality in People With and Without Diabetes: Results From a Population-Based Study
Authors: Ciardullo Stefano , Morabito Gabriella , Rea Federico , Savaré Laura , Perseghin Gianluca , Corrao Giovanni
Published: March 2024

Context

Patients with diabetes are at increased risk of dying from liver-related events, but little is known on whether this increased risk has changed in recent years.

Objective

The aim of the present study is to describe time trends in cause-specific liver-related mortality in people with and without diabetes from the general Italian population.

Methods

Data were retrieved from the health care utilization databases of Lombardy, a region of Italy that accounts for about 16% (almost 10 million) of its population. Annual cause-specific mortality rates and proportionate mortality were computed among individuals with and without diabetes from 2010 to 2019. Liver-related deaths were categorized as viral, alcohol related, and nonviral nonalcohol related (NVNA).

Results

Liver diseases were responsible for 2% and 1% of deaths in people with and without diabetes (2019). Among patients with diabetes, the crude mortality rate for liver diseases decreased from 1.13 to 0.64 deaths per 1000 person-years from 2010 to 2019. The largest proportion of liver-related deaths was attributable to NVNA diseases and it increased from 63% in 2010 to 68% in 2019, with a corresponding relative reduction of viral causes (from 27% to 23%). The standardized mortality ratio for patients with diabetes was 3.35 (95% CI 2.96-3.76) for NVNA, 1.66 (95% CI 1.33-2.01) for viral hepatitis, and 1.61 (95% CI 1.13-2.17) for alcoholic liver disease and it remained relatively stable over time. Excess mortality risk in patients with diabetes for liver-related mortality was higher than for cardiovascular mortality and cancer.

Conclusion

While liver-related mortality rates decreased significantly among patients with diabetes, NVNA causes made up the majority of cases. Excess mortality for liver-related causes in patients with diabetes compared with controls remained constant in the studied period.
Surgery for Oligometastatic Pancreatic Cancer: Defining Biologic Resectability
Authors: Koti Shruti , Demyan Lyudmyla , Deutsch Gary , Weiss Matthew
Published: March 2024

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is most often metastatic at diagnosis. As systemic therapy continues to improve alongside advanced surgical techniques, the focus has shifted toward defining biologic, rather than technical, resectability. Several centers have reported metastasectomy for oligometastatic PDAC, yet the indications and potential benefits remain unclear. In this review, we attempt to define oligometastatic disease in PDAC and to explore the rationale for metastasectomy. We evaluate the existing evidence for metastasectomy in liver, peritoneum, and lung individually, assessing the safety and oncologic outcomes for each. Furthermore, we explore contemporary biomarkers of biological resectability in oligometastatic PDAC, including radiographic findings, biochemical markers (such as CA 19-9 and CEA), inflammatory markers (including neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, C-reactive protein, and scoring indices), and liquid biopsy techniques. With careful consideration of existing data, we explore the concept of biologic resectability in guiding patient selection for metastasectomy in PDAC.
The genome sequence of the Black Goby, Gobius niger Linnaeus, 1758
Authors: Brittain Rachel , Adkins Patrick , Harley Joanna ,   Marine Biological Association Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Management, Samples and Laboratory team,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: Sequencing Operations,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Core Informatics team,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: March 2024

We present a genome assembly from an individual Gobius niger (the Black Goby; Chordata; Actinopteri; Perciformes; Gobiidae). The genome sequence is 870.6 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 24 chromosomal pseudomolecules. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 16.51 kilobases in length.
Strategic Development Formulation for Improving Corporate Mobile Application Engagement Rates
Authors:   Department of Management of Technology, Faculty of Business President University, Indonesia, Archiyesa Chyntia Agni , Saptari Adi
Published: March 2024

Abstract. In the digital transformation era, one company shifts from manual to digital reporting through a corporate mobile application called JSMART (Jababeka System Management for Advance Report) to serve those living in Kota Jababeka city. JSMART is a corporate application that can be utilized by the community who resides in Jababeka. JSMART was launched in 2017, though unfortunately, based on survey, only 17% of employees are actively using it. The aims of this research are to investigate the root cause of this employee reluctance to adopt the technology and the proposed corporate strategy. The Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) is used in quantitative approach to determine the influence of perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, and attitudes towards using JSMART amongst employees. Based on path analysis results, these three factors significantly influence one another, and the total mean is calculated as 2.70, which suggests that JSMART is not considered good enough from the perspective of the employees. In addition, interviews were conducted as part of a qualitative approach to investigate further. The root cause mainly arises from organizational factors such as a lack of socialization and training, and unclear rules for utilizing JSMART. Therefore, this study proposes a strategic development formulation that prioritizes organizational development while rejecting a proposed in-app suggestion feature for future development. Keywords: Corporate mobile application, digital transformation, technology acceptance, engagement rate, strategy.
The Influence of Attitudes, Subjective Norms, and Perceived Behavioral Control of Commuter Intentions to Use Public Transportation in Greater Bandung, Indonesia
Authors:   Parahyangan Catholic University, Cariera David , Joewono Tri Basuki , Belgiawan Prawira Fajarindra
Published: March 2024

Abstract. Although public transport provides many benefits, such as a cleaner environment, reduced congestion, and increased sustainable transportation, many people still prefer private transport. This motivates the exploration of users’ intention to choose and use public transportation. This study explores the psychological factors of public transport users based on the theory of planned behavior (TPB). TPB assumes behavior built because of the intention. Attitude (ATT) does not determine the intention to influence behavior directly but through a combination of Subjective Norms (SN) and Perceived Behavioral Control (PBC). Responses from public transport users in Greater Bandung were collected using a questionnaire. The results show that attitude (ATT) is the most vital factor that positively influences user intention, based on standardized estimates of 0.866 (ATT), 0.301 (PBC), and 0.202 (SN). Environmental and climate issues have the most significant influence on user attitudes when compared to quality factors sorted by standardized estimated values such as travel time, safety, and fare. Previous research revealed that the dominant factor was quality, but in this study, it switched to factors of transportation activities that affect the environment. In fact, the factor of ease of use and encouragement of information media is crucial to be considered by stakeholders.
Servant Leadership's Impact on Adaptive Performance in Indonesian Tech Companies: How Work Engagement and Trust in Leaders Play a Role
Authors:   University of Indonesia, Utami Ayu Rizky , Ardiyanti Niken ,   Faculty of Economics and Business, University of Indonesia
Published: March 2024

Abstract. Numerous technology-based companies have emerged in Indonesia due to the rapid growth of the technology sector over the last decades. Employees are required to be more adaptive to help the company succeed. Identifying which factors affect employees to adapt in a dynamic and competitive industry is essential. However, study related to adaptive performance affected by servant leadership among technology companies’ employees is still limited, particularly in Indonesia. Thus, this research is expected to contribute by providing new knowledge and literature for academics, especially in the field of human resources, as well as other areas related to employee performance, leadership, work engagement, and trust in leaders. Using the structural equation model with Lisrel 8.8 version, we provide the linkages on how work engagement and trust in leaders mediate the effect of servant leadership on adaptive performance of technology companies’ employees in Indonesia. The data (N=333) was collected from employees working in Indonesia’s technology sector such as financial technology, e-commerce, online transportation and food delivery, online travel, and so forth. Our findings showed that servant leadership has a significant and positive effect on adaptive performance through work engagement. However, trust in leaders does not have a positive mediating effect. Thus, it is important for management in the company to encourage the implementation of servant leadership and assess employees’ work engagement on a timely basis to boost employees’ adaptive performance. Keywords: Adaptive performance, servant leadership, technology companies, trust in leader, work engagement
Moisture-associated skin damage
Authors: Voegeli David
Published: March 2024

This paper aims to explore the recent developments in incontinence associated dermatitis and the implications for practice.
Rectal examinations in childbirth: the violence and humiliation of a silenced practice
Authors: Cohen Shabot Sara , Taylor Dianna
Published: March 2024

Post-vaginal birth protocols frequently require women and other birthing persons to undergo rectal examinations. Protocols for these examinations, which we refer to as PVREs, vary widely, however, and there is a lack of agreement within the medical community concerning whether they are needed at all. This article explores women’s experience of PVREs in light of this ambiguity which, we argue, reflects and reproduces aspects of gendered power relations that are implicated in systemic sexual violence. We show that some women experience PVREs as sexual violence, the effects of which include guilt, self-blame, shame and sexual humiliation. Given its defining characteristics, we further argue that PVREs constitute a form of obstetric violence.
How Trade Liberalization Affects the Political and Economic Performance of Developing Countries: The Application of a Two-Stage Game Model
Authors: Kim Seokwoo
Published: March 2024

Abstract: The major purpose of this study is to investigate how a certain trade policy adopted by a country is related to the performance of its economic and political operations in a changing international environment. More specifically, the study tries to provide an answer to the question of why some developing countries perform much better economically and politically than other developing countries, and how trade politics at both domestic and international levels affects these. The international political economy is rapidly moving toward “globalization.” If we confine the concept of “globalization” to trade issues, it calls for improved trade liberalization within which countries lower their trade barriers. Voluntarily or reluctantly, many developing countries have begun to move toward greater trade liberalization. However, this process is not uniformly applied to all developing countries. This study explains why some developing countries can follow the path of trade liberalization, while others have more difficulties in adopting this policy. The adoption of a different development policy(export-promotion or import-substitution) leads to different industrial structures, which in turn, result in different political balances between free traders and protectionists. Because of these differences, countries which adopted an export-promotion policy can adjust to new international environments more easily than those which adopted an import-substitution policy. Furthermore, the countries which adopted an export promotion policy can perform economically and politically better than those which adopted an import substitution policy. This study applies the two-stage game model in which one stage is domestic and the other is international, to explain the source, the process, and the outcomes of trade liberalization in developing countries. The implications of this study are that (1) economic performance and political performance may be substitutes in some developing countries, while they are compliments in others; (2) the application of the IMF conditionality policy to push developing countries toward trade liberalization needs to be implemented with greater caution; and (3) the presence of mechanisms to transfer income from the winner to the losers in trade politics may be helpful in moving toward trade liberalization.
Korean Unification: The Zero-Sum Past and the Precarious Future
Authors: Cha Victor D.
Published: March 2024

Abstract: With the end of the Cold War and uncertainties about the continued viability of the North Korean regime, the distant goal of national unification may finally be on the horizon. As Korea progresses toward the end of this long and winding road, a sharper focus on the once abstract notion of unification is appropriate. This article offers three perspectives on the topic. First it analyzes from a historical perspective why unification dialogue between the two Koreas has been largely unproductive. Second, it overviews some of the potential problems and policy priorities in the future process of unification. And third, it assesses the potential impact of a united Korea on the balance of power in East Asia.
Korean Direct Investment in Indonesia in the 1990s: Dynamics and Contradictions
Authors: Lee You-Il
Published: March 2024

Abstract: The case of Korean investment in Indonesia in the 1990s, particularly in the manufacturing industries, provides important insight into the current trend of intra-Asian capital flows. This article argues that the analysis of super-exploitation of cheap Indonesian labor by Korean manufacturing firms as a sole determinant of causing industrial relocation may serve to neglect more critical contributing elements. These include non-wage factors such as time coincidence, the active role of the state, socio-political and institutional conditions of the host country, and cultural similarities between the host and home countries. A critical analysis of Indonesia’s institutional and political structures may provide important insight into the way in which Korean manufacturing firms are successful in the Indonesian market despite mounting labor disputes among Korean-owned manufacturing firms in recent years.
U.S.-DPRK Nuclear Accord and KEDO
Authors: Kihl Young Whan
Published: March 2024

Abstract: To understand the political significance of the U.S.-DPRK nuclear accord, the paper first addresses how the adversarial relations were turned into a cooperative endeavor between Washington and Pyongyang, followed by an analysis and evaluation of the terms of the Geneva agreed framework and KEDO. The agreed framework is a less-than-perfect solution, like most diplomatic settlements, that is based on a quid-pro-quo proposition. Despite initial skepticism, the modus operandi of peace-building on the Korean peninsula represented by the Geneva accord is working out. KEDO was established as an instrument to implement the terms of the agreed framework. It’s primary objectives are to provide for the financing and supply of (a) heavy oils to North Korea and (b) the construction of two light-water nuclear reactors by the year 2003. The paper discusses the workload and task expansion of KEDO, which represents an interesting institutional experiment in international diplomacy. KEDO has also become a central arm of the U.S. Clinton Administration’s North Korea policy, in consultation and coordination with the ROK and Japan as KEDO’s founding members.
Business-Government Relations in Japan: The Influence of Business on Policy-Making through Two Routes
Authors: Yoshimatsu Hidetaka
Published: March 2024

Abstract: The Japanese business community organises zaikai and gyokai. Not only do the two institutions concern different policy issues but also have different counterparts of interactions in the bureaucracy and politicians. The analysis based on the distinction between zaikai and gyokai enables us to understand more accurately why particular business associations pursue specific policies and what political channels they use in order to attain their policy objectives. The study tests this argument through two case studies: activities of Keidanren concerning deregulation and those of textile associations regarding the introduction of the Multi-Fibre Arrangement (MFA).
Building Multilateral Security Cooperation in the South China Sea
Authors: Snyder Craig A.
Published: March 2024

Abstract: The dispute over the Spratly Islands is an important indicator for the management of future relations in the Asia Pacific region. The Spratlys are claimed in whole or in part by China, Vietnam, Taiwan, Malaysia, the Philippines and Brunei. This is a particularly sensitive issue due to the strategic importance of the South China Sea, and the Spratly Islands in particular. The central argument of the article is that the development of multilateral regional cooperative security approaches to the territorial disputes in the South China Sea could assist in the maintenance of peace and stability in the sub-region. There are three primary questions that need to be addressed in order to effectively develop multilateral security cooperation in the South China Sea. The first is whether the claimants are willing to compromise their claims in order to attain a peaceful settlement of the dispute. Second, will the claimants be willing to adopt confidence-building measures that restrict their capability to respond to crises before a final resolution to the dispute has been achieved? Finally, can the claimants reach an agreement on the rules and norms for state behavior in the disputed territory. It is argued that cooperative security approaches offer the most appropriate mechanisms for the eventual resolution of the Spratlys dispute. A high level of enmity still exists among the claimants but this is primarily focused against the People’s Republic of China. China is seen as a threat to regional security because it has not renounced the use of force to resolve the dispute. The Chinese have also been reluctant to enter into multilateral dialogue over the issue as they feel they can gain more in bilateral meetings and fear being isolated on the issue in an international forum. The evolutionary nature of cooperative security approaches, however, offers the opportunity for others to convince the Chinese of the benefits of participating in multilateral institutions. The Workshops on Managing Potential Conflict in the South China Sea is also put forward as the best forum to deal with the Spratlys issue. The workshops adopt a cooperative security approach of promoting dialogue on regional security issues while also encouraging low level confidence-building among the littoral states through the development of joint development and research projects in the disputed area. The question remains, however, whether an informal process can develop sufficient habits of cooperation among the claimants to effectively spill over into a formal dialogue on sovereignty?
Regionalism in Korean Elections and Democratization: An Empirical Analysis
Authors: Cho Kisuk
Published: March 2024

Abstract: Many of the modernization school who use the culturalist approach have criticized the regional voting patterns in Korea as premodern and traditional. Employing rational choice theory, regional voting is regarded as issue voting with patterns and degrees that are expected to vary with the choices offered and the voters’ experiences with regional discrimination. Empirical findings from the survey data are found to support this argument. The results raise some questions on the culturalist approach in explaining Korean democratization.
A Model of Community Health Worker Integration into Schools: Community-based Participatory Research in Action
Authors: Vaughen Sarah , Kowalczyk Monica , DeClemente Tarrah , Ignoffo Stacy , Fox Kenneth , Cheatham Jeannine , Volerman Anna
Published: March 2024

Abstract: Background: Schools are rich sites for collaborations between health and educational sectors. Objectives: To identify lessons learned from formation of a community–academic partnership and application of community-based participatory research (CBPR) to develop a model that integrates community health workers into schools. Methods: Individuals from an academic medical center, a large public school district, and a community-based research institute applied CBPR principles to reimagine schools as a place for improving the health of children. Lessons Learned: Three lessons emerged. Leveraging each team member's expertise centered the partnership on community strengths, co-learning, and stakeholder engagement. Adherence to CBPR's principles of power sharing and equity helped navigate the challenges of collaboration between large institutions. Early focus on sustainability helped address unexpected issues, build capacity, and boost advocacy. Conclusions: This partnership demonstrates how CBPR fosters conditions in which equitable partnerships between research institutions and public schools can thrive to promote childhood health.
Developing the Feast for the Future Program through a Community Visioning Process
Authors: Speakman Kristen , Neault Nicole , Lovato Ventura , Cueva Katie , Szabo Ivanka , Wallis Rebecca , Richards Jennifer , Barlow Allison
Published: March 2024

Abstract: Background: Three tribal communities in the Southwestern United States have a long-standing partnership with the Johns Hopkins Center for Indigenous Health (JHCIH). Objectives: In response to community concerns about obesity, three tribal communities and Johns Hopkins Center for Indigenous Health partnered to develop culturally relevant plans for a new program. Methods: Using a "community visioning" process, a community advisory board (CAB) from each community identified opportunities, challenges, goals, and visions for their communities. The CABs consulted with experts in pediatrics, nutrition, food distribution, agricultural restoration, and community and school gardening. Results: The CABs developed seven components for Feast for the Future: 1) Edible School Gardens; 2) Traditional Food-ways Education Program; 3) Community Gardens, Orchards, and Greenhouses; 4) Farmers Markets; 5) Farmers Workshops; 6) Family Gardens; and 7) a Mobile Grocery Store. Conclusions: A community-based participatory action research (CBPAR) process was critical to developing a culturally appropriate program that built on community strengths.
Reliable and efficient RAR-based distributed model training in computing power network
Authors: Chen Ling , Li Yajie , Natalino Carlos , Li Yongcheng , Zhang Boxin , Fan Yingbo , Wang Wei , Zhao Yongli , Zhang Jie
Published: March 2024

The computing power network (CPN) is a novel network technology that integrates computing power from the cloud, edge, and terminals using IP/optical cross-layer networks for distributed computing. CPNs can provide an effective solution for distributed model training (DMT). As a bandwidth optimization architecture based on data parallelism, ring all-reduce (RAR) is widely used in DMT. However, any node or link failure on the ring can interrupt or block the requests deployed on the ring. Meanwhile, due to the resource competition of batch RAR-based DMT requests, inappropriate scheduling strategies will also lead to low training efficiency or congestion. As far as we know, there is currently no research that considers the survivability of rings in scheduling strategies for RAR-based DMT. To fill this gap, we propose a scheduling scheme for RAR-based DMT requests in CPNs to optimize the allocation of computing and wavelength resources considering the time dimension while ensuring reliability. In practical scenarios, service providers may focus on different performance metrics. We formulate an integer linear programming (ILP) model and a RAR-based DMT deployment algorithm (RDDA) to solve this problem considering four optimization objectives under the premise of the minimum blocking rate: minimum computing resource consumption, minimum wavelength resource consumption, minimum training time, and maximum reliability. Simulation results demonstrate that our model satisfies the reliability requirements while achieving corresponding optimal performance for DMT requests under four optimization objectives.
Selective active resonance tuning for multi-mode nonlinear photonic cavities
Authors: Logan Alan D. , Yama Nicholas S. , Fu Kai-Mei C.
Published: March 2024

Resonant enhancement of nonlinear photonic processes is critical for the scalability of applications such as long-distance entanglement generation. To implement nonlinear resonant enhancement, multiple resonator modes must be individually tuned onto a precise set of process wavelengths, which requires multiple linearly-independent tuning methods. Using coupled auxiliary resonators to indirectly tune modes in a multi-resonant nonlinear cavity is particularly attractive because it allows the extension of a single physical tuning mechanism, such as thermal tuning, to provide the required independent controls. Here we model and simulate the performance and tradeoffs of a coupled-resonator tuning scheme which uses auxiliary resonators to tune specific modes of a multi-resonant nonlinear process. Our analysis determines the tuning bandwidth for steady-state mode field intensity can significantly exceed the inter-cavity coupling rate g if the total quality factor of the auxiliary resonator is higher than the multi-mode main resonator. Consequently, over-coupling a nonlinear resonator mode to improve the maximum efficiency of a frequency conversion process will simultaneously expand the auxiliary resonator tuning bandwidth for that mode, indicating a natural compatibility with this tuning scheme. We apply the model to an existing small-diameter triply-resonant ring resonator design and find that a tuning bandwidth of 136 GHz ≈ 1.1 nm can be attained for a mode in the telecom band while limiting excess scattering losses to a quality factor of 106. Such range would span the distribution of inhomogeneously broadened quantum emitter ensembles as well as resonator fabrication variations, indicating the potential for the auxiliary resonators to enable not only low-loss telecom conversion but also the generation of indistinguishable photons in a quantum network.
ExtraTrees-hidden Markov model based equalizer for mode division multiplexing ring-core fiber communication with non-orthogonal MultiCAP modulation
Authors: Cui Yi , Xin Xiangjun , Gao Ran , Zhang Qi , Yao Haipeng
Published: March 2024

This paper presents an orbital angular momentum mode division multiplexing (OAM-MDM) ring-core fiber transmission method based on non-orthogonal multiband carrierless amplitude and phase (NMCAP) modulation with an extremely randomized trees-hidden Markov model (ExtraTrees-HMM)-based equalizer. The ExtraTrees-HMM equalizer uses the statistical characteristics of the received distorted signals to model the nonlinear channel of the system to classify these distorted signals into corresponding constellation classes. Experiments were conducted using a 216 Gbit/s OAM-MDM NMCAP modulation optical fiber communication system with 2 km ring-core fiber transmission and the results show that compared with a conventional Volterra nonlinear equalizer (VNE), the proposed ExtraTrees-HMM equalizer could improve the receiver sensitivity by 1 dB for OAM mode l =  + 2, and 0.6 dB for OAM mode l =  + 3. In addition, the computational complexity of the proposed equalizer was reduced by 43.94% compared with the VNE. In brief, the ExtraTrees-HMM is a promising equalization candidate for ultra-high-capacity inter-data-center interconnections.
GaN integrated optical devices for glycerol viscosity measurement
Authors: Luo Yumeng , Yu Binlu , Yu Hongyu , Li Kwai Hei
Published: March 2024

This Letter presents the fabrication and characterization of a chip-scale GaN optical device for measuring glycerol viscosity. The monolithically integrated GaN chip with a size of 1 × 1 mm2 comprises a light-emitting diode (LED) and a photodiode (PD) on a transparent sapphire substrate. The glycerol droplet applied to the device acts as a medium for coupling light from the LED to the PD. When a mechanical impulse is applied, the droplet undergoes a damped vibration that depends on its viscosity, causing a change in its shape and altering the path of light propagation. The viscosity of the glycerol sample can be determined by obtaining the rate of attenuation of the measured photocurrent signals. The proposed unit offers a fast time response in microseconds and requires only a small sample volume of 5 µl. The developed device is highly suitable for the practical measurement of glycerol viscosity due to its miniaturization, low cost, and ease of operation without the need for external optical components.
Experimental reservoir computing with diffractively coupled VCSELs
Authors: Pflüger Moritz , Brunner Daniel , Heuser Tobias , Lott James A. , Reitzenstein Stephan , Fischer Ingo
Published: March 2024

We present experiments on reservoir computing (RC) using a network of vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs) that we diffractively couple via an external cavity. Our optical reservoir computer consists of 24 physical VCSEL nodes. We evaluate the system’s memory and solve the 2-bit XOR task and the 3-bit header recognition (HR) task with bit error ratios (BERs) below 1% and the 2-bit digital-to-analog conversion (DAC) task with a root mean square error (RMSE) of 0.067.
Thermally recovered mechanoluminescence in Ca6BaP4O17:Eu2+
Authors: Zhou Su , Cheng Yao , Wang Yuansheng
Published: March 2024

Stable reproducibility of mechanoluminescence (ML) is of vital importance for trap-controlled ML materials. Photo/electric excitation is usually needed for ML recovery of trap-controlled materials. In this work, it is demonstrated that thermal treatment can be applied to achieve recovery of ML, which is ascribed to the unique trap level configuration. The Ca6BaP4O17:Eu2+ performing robust trap-controlled ML has been proposed, and the corresponding repetitive ML can be realized by thermal treatment. TL spectra reveal that the thermally induced reproducible ML benefits from the dual defect level electronic structure of Ca6BaP4O17:Eu2+. The ML intensity is dependent on the electrons in shallow traps, and the electron transfer from deep traps to shallow traps induced by thermal treatment leads to repetitive ML.
Including environmental and climatic considerations for sustainable coral reef restoration
Authors: Burdett Heidi L. , Albright Rebecca , Foster Gavin L. , Mass Tali , Page Tessa M. , Rinkevich Buki , Schoepf Verena , Silverman Jacob , Kamenos Nicholas A.
Published: March 2024

Coral reefs provide ecosystem benefits to millions of people but are threatened by rapid environmental change and ever-increasing human pressures. Restoration is becoming a priority strategy for coral reef conservation, yet implementation remains challenging and it is becoming increasingly apparent that indirect conservation and restoration approaches will not ensure the long-term sustainability of coral reefs. The important role of environmental conditions in restoration practice are currently undervalued, carrying substantial implications for restoration success. Giving paramount importance to environmental conditions, particularly during the pre-restoration planning phase, has the potential to bring about considerable improvements in coral reef restoration and innovation. This Essay argues that restoration risk may be reduced by adopting an environmentally aware perspective that gives historical, contemporary, and future context to restoration decisions. Such an approach will open up new restoration opportunities with improved sustainability that have the capacity to dynamically respond to environmental trajectories.