bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Importance of Competitive Analysis. Competitive Strategies
Authors: Diaconu Bianca-Georgiana
Published: February 2025

Competitive analysis is a fundamental aspect of strategic planning in the financial-banking sector. Understanding competitors, their objectives, strategies, strengths, and weaknesses enables financial institutions to position themselves effectively in the market. This paper examines the significance of competitive analysis and the various competitive strategies financial institutions employ. The study highlights the importance of monitoring competitors, estimating market parameters, and implementing SWOT analysis for informed decision-making. Furthermore, it explores different competitive strategies, including those for market leaders, challengers, followers, specialized financial institutions, and passive market participants.
CONTEXTOS FORMATIVOS, EDUCACIONAIS E TECNOLÓGICOS NA EDUCAÇÃO MÉDICACONTEMPORÂNEA
Authors: Moraes Armesto Leonardo
Published: February 2025

A prática médica é um processo de constante reverberação profissional no sentido de dar profundidade a sua relação conjunta ao paciente. Para tanto, dada abordagem deve ser construída já a partir de seu processo de formação ainda nos anos iniciais do curso de medicina, fundamentando uma série de habilidades que o formem educacionalmente mais humanos e próximo das nuances, dificuldades e camadas que envolvem o cuidado em saúde. Para tanto, é necessário o desenvolvimento integrativo entre contexto do saber técnico em medicina e saúde, vinculado a perspectivas tecnológicas e humanistas que possibilitem a construção de uma profissional mais amplo, ventilado e operador de instrumentos que retroalimentem sua conduta. Neste âmbito, o desenvolvimento tecnológico é ponto forte no fazer educacional e em ensino-aprendizagem, oportunizando mais amplo enriquecimento acadêmico-profissional. O estudo busca estudar a influência do advento de novas tecnologias, a uma prática médica mais hábil e efetiva. Essa abordagem justifica-se pela perspectiva de uma formação mais completa e mediada pelo ensino-aprendizagem prático e resolutivo. O estudo foi realizado por meio de uma revisão integrativa da literatura a partir de busca nas bases de dados, SciELO, PUBMED e ResearchGate, selecionando publicações entre os anos de 2004 a 2024, nas linguas português, inglês e espanhol, disponibilizados na íntegra na base de dados de forma gratuita. Por fim, compreendeu-se a contemporânea importância de desenvolver-se a prática médica, mediada por recursos tecnológicos educacionais que melhor substanciem a performance profissional nos âmbitos da saúde e cuidado.
La vocation de l’universitaire à la lumière du discours de rectorat de Martin Heidegger
Authors:   Université Alassane OUATTARA (Côte d’Ivoire), KOUAKOU Antoine
Published: February 2025

Renvoyant dos à dos l’hospitalité systématique et le refus catégorique, Emmanuel Kant, face à la question de l’immigration, prône un « droit de visite » tenant compte des droits fondamentaux de la personne humaine et du droit à l’autodétermination des peuples conformément à ses attentes vis-à-vis du droit cosmopolitique. Il fait appel à un humanisme critique qui tranche avec l’humanisme naïf des tenants de l’hospitalité illimitée. Ce qui préfigure une politique d’immigration à la fois lucide, responsable et flexible visant à mettre en œuvre les conditions auxquelles l’installation des étrangers pourrait être compatible avec la liberté et la souveraineté des communautés politiques dans un environnement cosmopolitique.
Heidegger et la nouvelle tonalité affective de l’être humain
Authors:   École Normale Supérieure (Bénin), TECHOU Roland
Published: February 2025

L’objectif de cet article est de montrer que la finitude est le fondement de l’entendement humain. On en déduit une nouvelle tonalité affective de l’être humain dont l’ontologie fondamentale de Martin Heidegger est le lieu d’élaboration. Pour le penseur du sens de l’être, c’est depuis Kant, dans sa Critique de la raison pure (1781) en tant qu’« analytique du schématisme » que la raison se pose comme raison-finie et, partant, doit dorénavant servir de fondement à la détermination de l’essence humaine. C’est ce que nous envisageons justifier sur la base de Kantbuch (Kant et le problème de la métaphysique), ouvrage rédigé par Heidegger en 1929. L’analytique de la finitude humaine offre une nouvelle compréhension de notre être-au-monde.
Vers une phénoménologie sotériologique : du « seul un Dieu peut nous sauver » de Heidegger au « seul un Dieu vivant peut nous sauver » de Michel Henry
Authors:   École Normale Supérieure Porto-Novo (Bénin), BOKO Sèdjro Bernadin
Published: February 2025

La réduction phénoménologique permet d’approcher Dieu sans professer une foi en une religion. L’onto-phénoménologie de Heidegger et Henry a tenté de poser cette problématique de Dieu, respectivement à partir de l’être et de la vie. En ce sens, l’ontologie fondamentale du Dasein est la condition de possibilité de la question du sacré, du divin. Elle le fait à partir de la poésie. La phénoménologie de la vie, quant à elle, tente de penser Dieu à partir de la vie. C’est ainsi que le « seul un dieu peut nous sauver » devient « seul un dieu vivant peut nous sauver ».
Sur le contexte du discours de rectorat. Deux leçons pour l’Afrique
Authors:   Université Félix HOUPHOUËT-BOIGNY (Côte d’Ivoire), YAPO Séverin
Published: February 2025

Pourquoi l’intelligentsia africaine semble-t-elle ne pas pouvoir sortir d’une domination politique et religieuse dont le contexte philosophique du Discours de rectorat de M. Heidegger semble analogiquement restituer des traits culturels ? Pour répondre à cette question, l’article remonte aux sources idéalistes platonico-allemandes d’une domination ethnoculturelle et religieuse endogène et exogène dont, tout comme les Juifs allemands en 1933, le peuple africain contemporain constitue la victime. Voyant dans la dia-logique culturelle le modèle philosophique de rapports interculturels libérateurs entretenus entre l’Allemagne et son voisin français, puis entre les Juifs et la philosophie-poétique heidegériano-hölderlinienne, l’article invite à en faire le socle de rapports exogènes et endogènes exempts de toute domination entre l’Afrique et son ex-colonie et entre les philosophes africains et leur propre peuple.
Sur la question de la technique : distance et proximité entre Jacques Ellul et Martin Heidegger
Authors:   Université Alassane OUATTARA (Côte d’Ivoire), REGNIMA Ouandé Armand
Published: February 2025

Dans les années 1950, alors que la philosophie de la technique, entendue comme discipline systématique à l’intérieur de la philosophie, est encore à ses premiers pas, deux auteurs, J. Ellul et M. Heidegger, vont se démarquer par la profondeur de leurs pensées sur la question de la technique. Mais l’approche métaphysique et conceptuelle de cette question par Heidegger finira par l’opposer à l’approche critique et sociologique d’Ellul, au point de faire des deux penseurs des adversaires intellectuels. Et pourtant, une similitude fascinante ne cesse de se dégager de leurs œuvres. Il y a donc une distance et une proximité entre ces deux auteurs que ce texte se propose d’élucider, en ayant pour intention de mettre en exergue leurs contributions indéniables à l’émergence de la philosophie de la technique.
Competencias Investigativas en la formación de los participantes del posgrado: Dimensión Declarativa
Authors: Betancourt Duno Yamily del Carmen , Ochoa Gómez José Roberto , Betancourt Ortíz Roberto Jesús
Published: February 2025

Las competencias investigativas como un componente que transversaliza las profesiones que otorgan las garantías que un profesional competente debe tener para dar respuesta a la dinámica vertiginosa de la modernidad. El estudio está dirigido a analizar las competencias investigativas en la formación de los participantes de Postgrado de la Universidad Nacional Experimental Rafael María Baralt UNERMB. El estudio es de enfoque cuantitativo, tipo de investigación analítica, descriptiva, con un diseño no experimental, transeccional y de campo. La muestra está conformada participantes de posgrado. La recogida de información se realizó a través de una prueba estandarizada y un cuestionario. El resultado permitió afirmar que los participantes de la especialidad de presentan un nivel de satisfactorio en relación al desarrollo de las competencias declarativas. Se concluye que, en relación al desarrollo de las competencias investigativas, poseen un buen dominio de los conceptos básicos de la investigación, sin embargo, su nivel en la capacidad de comprender y aplicar los conocimientos teóricos es satisfactorio.
La formación terapéutica. Una mirada a la diversidad desde el contexto universitario
Authors: Ramírez Chávez Raudel Estalin , Navas López Arturo Ignacio
Published: February 2025

The virtual learning environment and stress coping are currently considered as topics that should be investigated due to the different moments that have been experienced during this COVID-19 pandemic, even more so if it is associated with university academic subjects. The objective was to establish the relationship between the virtual learning environment and stress coping in students of the Faculty of Chemical Engineering of the National University of Callao, in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. The research is of quantitative approach, descriptive correlational method and with a non-experimental design, the population was constituted by the students enrolled from I to II cycle of the Faculty of Chemical Engineering of the National University of Callao, the instruments used were: the Stress Coping Questionnaire and the Virtual Learning Environment Questionnaire. According to the results, there is a direct relationship between the virtual learning environment and stress coping in students of the Faculty of Chemical Engineering of the National University of Callao, in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. It is concluded that there is a direct relationship between the virtual learning environment and stress coping, being positive and very high in university students.
Applications of Deep Learning in Natural Language Processing: A Case Study on Machine Translation
Authors: Zhang Wei
Published: February 2025

This paper explores the application of deep learning techniques in the field of Natural Language Processing (NLP), with a particular focus on machine translation. We trace the evolution of machine translation systems, from rule-based and statistical methods to the state-of-the-art neural approaches, highlighting the transformative role of deep learning models such as Recurrent Neural Networks (RNNs), Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) networks, and the Transformer architecture. Through case studies of leading platforms like Google Translate and DeepL Translator, we demonstrate the practical impact of Neural Machine Translation (NMT) in breaking language barriers and enabling global communication. The paper also addresses key challenges in NMT, including handling low-resource languages, improving contextual understanding, and managing computational complexity. Furthermore, we discuss recent advancements such as transfer learning, zero-shot learning, and the integration of external knowledge bases, as well as future directions like enhancing human-like translation, mitigating ethical concerns, and exploring the potential of quantum computing. By providing a comprehensive overview of NMT's advancements, applications, and future prospects, this paper aims to shed light on the ongoing evolution of machine translation and its significance in the broader NLP landscape.
The Role of Sustainable Investment Management in Islamic Financial System Strategies and Challenges Amidst Global Economic Uncertainty
Authors: Oktaviani Oktaviani , Lastri Novelma , Aditiya Variza , Hartutik Dwi , Saling Saling
Published: February 2025

Sustainable investment management in the Islamic financial system is becoming increasingly important amid global economic uncertainty triggered by financial crises, market volatility, and changes in monetary policy. The Islamic financial system based on the principles of fairness, transparency, and sustainability faces challenges in maintaining stability and investment growth. With the increasing demand for ethical and ESG-based investment instruments (Environmental, Social, and Governance), strengthening Islamic investment strategies is an urgent need to improve its competitiveness in the global market. This study aims to analyze the role of sustainable investment management in the Islamic financial system, explore the main challenges faced, and propose strategies that can increase the resilience of Islamic investment in the face of global economic uncertainty. This study uses a qualitative method with a library research approach to collect and analyze data from various academic journals, books, and research reports related to sharia investment and sustainability. Thematic analysis techniques are used to identify key patterns in Islamic investment management and how they can adapt to global economic dynamics. The results of the study show that sustainable investment management in Islamic finance has great potential in creating long-term stability, especially through instruments such as green sukuk and real asset-based investments. However, the main challenges faced are the limitations of sharia investment instruments, the lack of harmonization of regulations between countries, and the low level of sharia financial literacy among investors. Therefore, a portfolio diversification strategy, strengthening regulations, and the use of digital technology are needed to increase efficiency and transparency in sharia investment.
The Effect of Promotion of Bank Sumsel Babel Syariah Lubuklinggau Toward Community Saving Interest Lubuklinggau City West I
Authors: Oga Saputra  , Lidia Desiana
Published: February 2025

This study aims to determine the interest of Lubuklnggau’s people to save, especially saving in a Sharia-based regional bank, namely Bank Sumsel Babel Syariah. This research was conducted for three months using primary data by distributing questionnaires, books and related journals, the location of the study was in the city of Lubuklnggau. The sampling techniques used in this research were random sampling techniques with a total sample of 0 respondents and analyzed with multiple linear regression. The results of this study show that Advertisements and Publicity affect people's saving interest, while sales promotion and personal sales did not affect people's.
Le pari de l’utilisation des auto-confrontations pour accompagner les élèves du primaire dans la production d’exposés oraux
Authors: Stordeur Marie-France , Nils Frédéric , Francotte Ève , Colognesi Stéphane
Published: February 2025

Notre contribution questionne les apports de l’entretien d’auto-confrontation (AC) comme outil d’autoévaluation pour les élèves en situation d’exposé oral, y compris concernant la dimension émotionnelle de l’oral, et d’évaluation formative pour les enseignants. Pour répondre à ce questionnement, nous avons mené un entretien d’AC individuel (AC simple) avec huit élèves sur la base de la vidéo de leur exposé en classe. L’analyse de contenu appliquée à leurs propos a permis de montrer que lorsque les élèves se revoient et parlent des émotions qu’ils ont ressenties durant leur exposé, ils font des liens avec leurs stratégies de préparation et de réussite, les facilitateurs et obstacles qu’ils ont rencontrés et ce qu’ils comptent mettre en place une prochaine fois. Ce sont des informations précieuses pour l’enseignant qui désire accompagner adéquatement ses élèves.
Entre nation et région : les collèges classiques et le développement d’une conscience historique au Canada français et en Acadie
Authors: St-Pierre Stéphanie
Published: February 2025

Les collèges classiques de langue française ont joué un rôle crucial dans l’éducation et la formation identitaire des francophones de l’Acadie et du Canada. Cette note de recherche explore comment ces collèges ont contribué à l’élaboration d’un discours historique porteur d’un sentiment d’appartenance en milieu francophone minoritaire, en examinant trois collèges spécifiques : le Collège du Sacré-Coeur à Sudbury, le Collège de Saint-Boniface au Manitoba, et le Collège Sainte-Anne en Nouvelle-Écosse. Le texte met en lumière comment les activités historiques dans les trois collèges classiques étudiés visent à enraciner la population locale dans leur passé par la promotion d’une conscience historique régionale.
La question nationale vue par André Laurendeau et Hector de Saint-Denys Garneau : d’une amitié née au Collège Sainte‑Marie de Montréal
Authors: Bonnet François
Published: February 2025

Vers la fin des années 1920, au Collège Sainte-Marie à Montréal, Hector de Saint-Denys Garneau se lie d’amitié avec André Laurendeau. Leur correspondance témoigne des affinités qui les unissent, d’une affection intime, profonde et sincère. Pourtant, au sortir du collège, ils s’éloigneront progressivement l’un de l’autre. Alors que Laurendeau s’engage dans la voie de l’action nationale à la tête des Jeune-Canada, Garneau, choisissant plutôt l’avenue littéraire, construit son personnage de poète. À partir de la correspondance qu’ils entretiennent de 1931 à 1938, nous tentons d’éclairer les causes et la nature de cette divergence au sujet de la question nationale, mais aussi de la relativiser et d’en souligner la complémentarité en tenant compte de l’enseignement classique prodigué au Collège Sainte-Marie. Notre démarche permet, par ailleurs, de mieux comprendre les réseaux de sociabilité et les amitiés qui s’y nouent, lesquels connaissent de féconds prolongements à l’âge adulte.
Harcèlement au travail chez les jeunes de minorités sexuelles et de genre : une analyse de profils latents
Authors: Dion Fred L. , Baiocco Michele , Blais Martin , Boislard Marie-Aude , Philibert Mathieu ,   Équipe de recherche BRAV
Published: February 2025

Au Canada, 23 % des jeunes de minorités sexuelles et de genre (MSG) rapportent avoir été exposé·e·s au harcèlement au travail (HT). Or, les formes de HT sont rarement distinguées et les études traitent souvent des jeunes MSG comme un seul groupe homogène. Grâce à des analyses de profils latents, cette étude vise à examiner les profils de HT chez 1033 travailleur·euse·s MSG de 15 à 29 ans (M = 22,83; ÉT = 0,13) résidant au Canada. Objectifs : 1) identifier les patrons d’exposition au HT; 2) explorer les différences entre ces profils en ce qui a trait aux caractéristiques sociodémographiques et de leur emploi; et 3) explorer les corrélats potentiels de cette exposition, soit le bien-être des jeunes MSG et leurs relations interpersonnelles. Quatre profils ont été identifiés : HT absent (79,8 % de l’échantillon); HT rare (11,8 %); HT occasionnel sans violence physique (6,5 %); HT fréquent avec violence physique (1,9 %). Les jeunes trans ou en situation de handicap étaient surreprésenté·e·s dans les profils de HT plus sévères. Les profils se positionnaient défavorablement sur certains indicateurs de bien-être et concernant leurs relations interpersonnelles, et considéraient comme insuffisantes les mesures organisationnelles pour contrer le HT. Cette étude met en évidence des inégalités intersectionnelles dans l’exposition au HT chez les jeunes MSG et ses conséquences délétères. Des interventions préventives et postventives adaptées aux inégalités intersectionnelles sont présentées.
In-Situ Condition Monitoring of Components in Small Modular Reactors Using Process and Electrical Signature Analysis
Authors: Lollar Victor
Published: February 2025

Components in small modular reactors (SMRs) are located in a hazardous environment and must be monitored remotely. Electrical signature analysis (ESA) is a viable option for component monitoring as it can be implemented on-line away from the actual equipment. This research attempts to use both electrical signatures from a pump motor and process variables such as flow and pressure to effectively monitor reactor components. An experimental flow loop with pump health monitoring equipment and a data acquisition system was used for experiments. Process variables analyzed include pressure, flow rate, water level, and motor vibrations. The electrical signatures monitored were the motor current and voltage drawn. It was observed that the pressure in the loop, vibration, flow and motor current signals show similar behavior in the transient region (start-up and shut-down) as well as during steady-state operation. It was demonstrated that a strong relationship exists between motor current and process variables such as flow, pressure, and motor vibrations. These relationships will be used to prove that the pump’s electrical signatures can be used to monitor the pump, flow, and pressure without direct measurement of the process variables.
Contending Theories of Wage Determination: An Intersectoral Analysis of Real Wage Growth in the U.S. Economy
Authors: Sheffield James
Published: February 2025

In recent years, social movements and popular media have drawn attention to the issue of income inequality in the United States. This growing inequality in the distribution of income is often seen as a function of stagnating wage growth in the U.S. economy. There appears to be a fairly broad consensus among commentators that wage growth for many workers in the U.S. has stagnated in recent decades, though the precise causes and implications of this trend are a matter of considerable dispute. Some see it as a function of stagnant productivity growth, while others attribute it to the declining strength of the labor movement. This paper uses multiple regression analyses in an attempt to provide an empirical means to judge the theoretical salience of these contending viewpoints. The results of this study indicate that while wage growth has in fact maintained a positive correlation with productivity, this correlation is much weaker than expected, particularly for manufacturing industries. Furthermore, while labor union strength appears to be an insignificant factor in the determination of wages for manufacturing industries, it retains a strong statistical significance in service sector wages. I argue that this finding reflects a historical shift in the composition of U.S. industry. The data gathered in this study supports the view that labor union density plays a role in the strength of wage-productivity elasticity, which raises important questions of how best to conceptualize wage growth and aggregate income distribution from the standpoint of economic theory.
High-temperature oxidation and crystallization mechanism of Fe73.5Si13.5B9Cu1Nb3 amorphous alloy
Authors: ZHANG Xiang  , SONG Yingjie  , LIU Haishun  , XIONG Xiang  , YANG Weiming  , HAN Chenkang  ,   1 School of Materials Science and Physics, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou 221116, China;,   2 State Key Laboratory of Powder Metallurgy, Central South University, Changsha 410083, China;,   3 School of Mechanics and Civil Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou 221116, China
Published: February 2025

Fe-based amorphous alloys are widely used in electronic devices such as high-frequency transformers and choke cores due to their low coercivity, low loss, and high saturation magnetic induction intensity. However, these alloys have a relatively low crystallization temperature and are prone to oxidation, which limits their application in high-temperature environments. The addition of copper and niobium elements can suppress the growth of crystal nuclei and improve thermal stability. However, the impact on the alloy's high-temperature oxidation resistance and structural evolution remains unclear. This paper uses static air oxidation to investigate the microstructure evolution of Fe73.5Si13.5B9Cu1Nb3 amorphous alloy after high-temperature oxidation and its impact on magnetic properties. Besides, long-time oxidation, such as 500 oC for 3000 hours or longer, is generally hard to perform in the lab. Thus, the authors apply Van’t Hoff’s rule to evaluate the long-time, relatively low-temperature oxidation using rapid high-temperature oxidation. Based on Van’t Hoff’s rule, the oxidation at 650℃ for 5 minutes will show similar or more severe oxidation effects on the microstructure of Fe73.5Si13.5B9Cu1Nb3 alloy after oxidation at 500 oC for 2730 hours. The microstructure evolution reveals that silicon and niobium in this alloy will quickly diffuse toward the samples’ surface during oxidation at 650 oC, and these two elements will form a dense layer to impede oxygen diffusion. Meanwhile, an α-Fe(Si) phase mainly composed of iron will be generated in the alloy, with its grain size slowly increasing during the oxidation process. Thermodynamic analysis indicates that the segregation of silicon and niobium can preserve the thermodynamic stability of the alloy system during oxidation and suppress the formation of intermetallic compounds during crystallization. The magnetic hysteresis loop results show that the coercivity of Fe73.5Si13.5B9Cu1Nb3 alloy after oxidation at 650℃ for 5 minutes would stay at approximately 0.3 Oe, suggesting the Fe73.5Si13.5B9Cu1Nb3 alloy might be a candidate for operating at 500 oC for more than 2700 hours. After that, its coercivity gradually increases to 61 Oe as the oxidation time rises to 0.5 hours, while its saturation magnetic induction intensity remains unchanged (~140 emu/g).
Meteorins regulate the formation of the left-right organizer and the establishment of vertebrate body asymmetry
Authors: Eggeler Fanny , Boulanger-Weill Jonathan , De Santis Flavia , Belleri Laura , Duroure Karine , Auer Thomas O , Albadri Shahad , Del Bene Filippo
Published: February 2025

While the exterior of vertebrate bodies appears bilaterally symmetrical, internal organ positioning and morphology frequently exhibit left-right (L-R) asymmetries. In several vertebrates, including human, mouse, frog and zebrafish, left-right symmetry-breaking during embryonic development is initiated by a ciliated organ called the Node or left-right organizer. Within the Node, a leftward flow of extraembryonic fluid named the Nodal flow mediates the asymmetric expressions of Nodal factors. Although downstream Nodal pathway components leading to the establishment of the embryonic left-right axis are well known, less is known about the development and formation of the embryonic Node itself.Here we reveal a novel role for the Meteorin protein family in the establishment of the left-right axis and in the formation of the Kupffer’s vesicle, the Node equivalent structure in zebrafish. We show that the genetic inactivation of each or all three members of the zebrafish Meteorin family (
metrn
,
metrn-like a
and
metrn-like b
) leads to defects in properties of the Kupffer’s vesicle, caused by impaired assembly and migration of the Kupffer’s vesicle forming dorsal forerunner cells. In addition, we demonstrate that Meteorins genetically interact with integrins ItgaV and Itgβ1b regulating the dorsal forerunner cell clustering and that
meteorins
loss-of-function results in disturbed Nodal factor expression and consequently in randomized or symmetric heart looping and jogging.These results identify a new role for the Meteorin protein family in the left-right asymmetry patterning during embryonic vertebrate development.
Chronic RNA G-quadruplex accumulation in aging and Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Kallweit Lena , Hamlett Eric Daniel , Saternos Hannah , Gilmore Anah , Granholm Ann-Charlotte , Horowitz Scott
Published: February 2025

As the world population ages, new molecular targets in aging and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) are needed to combat the expected influx of new AD cases. Until now, the role of RNA structure in aging and neurodegeneration has largely remained unexplored. In this study, we examined human hippocampal postmortem tissue for the formation of RNA G-quadruplexes (rG4s) in aging and AD. We found that rG4 immunostaining strongly increased in the hippocampus with both age and with AD severity. We further found that neurons with the accumulation of phospho-tau immunostaining contained rG4s, rG4 structure can drive tau aggregation, and rG4 staining density depended on APOE genotype in the human tissue examined. Combined with previous studies showing the dependence of rG4 structure on stress and the extreme power of rG4s at oligomerizing proteins, we propose a model of neurodegeneration in which chronic rG4 formation is linked to proteostasis collapse. These morphological findings suggest that further investigation of RNA structure in neurodegeneration is a critical avenue for future treatments and diagnoses.
Altered hepatic metabolism mediates sepsis preventive effects of reduced glucose supply in infected preterm newborns
Authors: Bæk Ole , Muk Tik , Wu Ziyuan , Ye Yongxin , Khakimov Bekzod , Casano Alessandra Maria , Gangadharan Bagirath , Bilic Ivan , Brunse Anders , Sangild Per Torp , Nguyen Duc Ninh
Published: February 2025

Preterm infants are susceptible to neonatal sepsis, a syndrome of pro-inflammatory activity, organ damage, and altered metabolism following infection. Given the unique metabolic challenges and poor glucose regulatory capacity of preterm infants, their glucose intake during infection may have a high impact on the degree of metabolism dysregulation and organ damage. Using a preterm pig model of neonatal sepsis, we previously showed that a drastic restriction in glucose supply during infection protects against sepsis via suppression of glycolysis-induced inflammation, but results in severe hypoglycemia. Now we explored clinically relevant options for reducing glucose intake to decrease sepsis risk, without causing hypoglycemia and further explore the involvement of the liver in these protective effects. We found that a reduced glucose regime during infection increased survival via reduced pro-inflammatory response, while maintaining normoglycemia. Mechanistically, this intervention enhanced hepatic oxidative phosphorylation and possibly gluconeogenesis, and dampened both circulating and hepatic inflammation. However, switching from a high to a reduced glucose supply after the debut of clinical symptoms did not prevent sepsis, suggesting metabolic conditions at the start of infection are key in driving the outcome. Finally, an early therapy with purified human inter-alpha inhibitor protein, a liver-derived anti-inflammatory protein, partially reversed the effects of low parenteral glucose provision, likely by inhibiting neutrophil functions that mediate pathogen clearance. Our findings suggest a clinically relevant regime of reduced glucose supply for infected preterm infants could prevent or delay the development of sepsis in vulnerable neonates.
Factors influencing perceived preceptor empathy and nursing practice readiness on field adaptation of new nurses in South Korea: a cross-sectional descriptive study
Authors: Jang Kyeungyeun , Choi Hanna
Published: February 2025

Purpose: This descriptive survey-based study was conducted to identify factors affecting new nurses’ field adaptation in relation to preceptors’ empathy and nursing practice readiness. Methods: The participants of this study were 170 new nurses who voluntarily agreed to take part in this study and had been working for 12 months or less after completing their preceptorship at three general hospitals. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire. The collected data were analyzed with the t-test, analysis of variation, the Scheffé test, Pearson correlation coefficients, and multiple regression analysis. Results: The factors that most strongly influenced field adaptation were nursing practice readiness (β = .41), above average satisfaction with the nursing job (β = .27), and below average satisfaction with the nursing job (β = −.26), in descending order. The total explanatory power of these variables was 52%. Conclusion: The findings of this study suggest that increasing new nurses’ field adaptability requires the development and application of training programs focusing on nursing knowledge, interpersonal skills, and professionalism to help them improve nursing practice readiness. In addition, policies and systems need to be developed that can improve their satisfaction with the nursing job.
The large mammal fossil fauna of the Cradle of Humankind, South Africa: a review
Authors: Malherbe Megan , Pickering Robyn , Stynder Deano , Haeusler Martin
Published: February 2025

South Africa’s Cradle of Humankind UNESCO World Heritage Site has remained the single richest source of hominin fossils for over ninety years. While its hominin specimens have been the subject of extensive research, the same is not true for its abundant faunal assemblages, despite their value in Plio-Pleistocene palaeoenvironmental reconstructions. Moreover, precise ages and depositional histories have been historically difficult to assess, though advancements in both relative and absolute dating techniques are changing this. This review explores the history of non-hominin large mammal faunal reporting, palaeoenvironmental reconstructions based on these fauna, and dating histories (with a focus on biochronology) at the following eight fossil-bearing sites of the Cradle that have been radiometrically dated with uranium-lead: Bolt’s Farm, Cooper’s Cave, Drimolen, Haasgat, Hoogland, Malapa, Sterkfontein and Swartkrans. Continued efforts to provide more precise and direct ages for sites using a variety of methods indicate that the bulk of Cradle deposits date to between 3 and 1.4 Ma. We find that, across almost all eight sites, there is little discussion or debate surrounding faunal reports, with some sites described by a single publication. Many of the reports are decades old with little review or reanalysis in the years following, emphasising the need for reviews such as this one. Our analysis of the data indicates that faunal-based paleoenvironmental reconstructions across sites commonly show a trend of wooded landscapes giving way to grasslands. We find that these reconstructions are primarily based on faunal abundance data, despite the availability of many other informative analytical techniques. The findings of this review highlight a need for more extensive and robust faunal reporting, as this will aid in understanding the context of these Cradle sites.
Consumer Awareness and Behavioural Trends in the Adoption of Millets and Millet-based Products
Authors: Kaur Manpreet , Banga Gagandeep
Published: February 2025

The study aims to investigate the consumer awareness and buying behavior towards millets and millets-based products in Ludhiana city. A descriptive research design was used to guide data collection and analysis. The primary data was collected through a structured and non-disguised questionnaire. A total sample of 200 respondents was selected for the study based on convenience sampling. The findings indicated that in terms of awareness, 78% of respondents were familiar with pearl millet (Bajra), followed by 72% with sorghum (Jowar), and 54.5% with finger millet (Ragi). Awareness was significantly lower for other millets, including Foxtail (Kangni), Kodo, and Little Millet. The study found that 80% of respondents purchase millet flour, followed by millet cookies (56%) and breakfast cereals (35%). A majority (66%) spend less than Rs. 700 monthly on millet products, with only 8% spending over Rs. 1000. Social media (57%) and word of mouth (48%) were the primary sources of information. Most respondents (30%) buy millet products once a month, while 21% buy occasionally. Grocery/kirana stores (53%) were the most common purchase location, followed by supermarkets (39%). The findings suggest a need for more affordable and accessible millet-based products and increased consumer awareness.
Prevalence of COPD Exacerbation with Type-2 Diabetes Comorbidity: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Dewi Armita , Walenna Nirwana Fitriani , Yunus Faisal , Tabri Nur Ahmad , Djaharuddin Irawaty , Santoso Arif , Ilyas Muhammad
Published: February 2025

Background: Type-2 Diabetes Mellitus (type-2 DM) is one of the comorbidities in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), associated with the incidence of respiratory tract infections which is a risk factor for COPD exacerbations.
Methods: Systematic review include publications from January 1st 2015 to October 31th 2021, using data base Pubmed and Google Scholar and meta-analysis conducted to summarize prevalence of COPD exacerbation with type-2 DM with subgroup analysis base on geographical location, study design, study period also characteristic population COPD exacerbation with type-2 DM comorbidities.
Results: Seven studies conducted in the meta-analysis. Pooled prevalence of COPD exacerbations with type-2 DM comorbidity was 34.22% (95%CI: 27.49%-41.28%) and heterogeneity (I2=87.69%, Q=48.75, p=<0.001). Five studies were based in Europe, one study in Asia and the Americas.
Prevalence of COPD exacerbations with type-2 DM comorbidity based on WHO region subgroup analysis found European region 34.70% (95%CI:25.88%-43.96%), America’s region 40.28% (95%CI: 39 .89%-40.79%) and the Western Pacific region 26.01%(95%CI:0.20;0.32) with statistical heterogeneity (I2 = 77%, Q=17.63, p=<0.001). Population age of the study was above 60 years and more males than females (n=30,58.8% vs n=21,41.1%). Most common other comorbidities of COPD exacerbation were hypertension, obesity, and coronary heart disease.
Conclusion: Pooled prevalence of COPD exacerbations with comorbid type-2 DM in this systematic review and meta-analysis was 34.22% (95%CI: 27.49%-41.28%)
Effect of New Generation Herbicides on Weed Dynamics and Yield of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)
Authors: Kumar Sunil , Gajanand  , Kumar Amrendra , Singh R.S. , Birla Devilal
Published: February 2025

The present research was conducted to study the differential doses and time applications of topramezone on weed dynamics and yield of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) at agronomical research farm of Trihut College of Agriculture, Dholi, Muzaffarpur (Bihar), during the rabi 2022-23. The experiment was carried out in an RBD design with three replications and twelve treatments: Pre-emergence (PE) application of oxyfluorfen (150 & 250 g/ha), post-emergence (PoE) application quizalofop-p-ethyl, propaquizafop (each 100 g/ha at 20 DAS), topramezone 20.6 g/ha (14 & 21 DAS) and 25.7 g/ha (21 DAS) applied. Among pre + post emergence applications oxyfluorfen (150 g/ha) fb quizalofop-p-ethyl (100 g/ha at 15-20 DAS), oxyfluorfen followed by propaquizafop (100 g/ha at 20 DAS) and oxyfluorfen fb topramezone (20.6 g/ha at 21 DAS) applied, along with the weed-free control (WFC) and weedy check.
Among all the herbicidal treatments, the combination of oxyfluorfen at 150 g/ha followed by topramezone at 20.6 g/ha at 21 DAS (pre + post-emergence) recorded lowest weed dry matter and highest weed control efficiency (WCE) and crop yield.
Effect of Storage Conditions and Period on the Organoleptic Properties of Value Added Ready-To-Serve (RTS) Beverage from Starfruit
Authors: Pillai Sreejitha S. , Topno Samir E. , Dessai Utkarsh Sawant , Parab Govind Vasant , Mishra Yasharth , Kumar Jogi Lalit , Shetye Vignesh Mahendra
Published: February 2025

The experiment was carried out to study the effect of storage conditions and period on the organoleptic properties of starfruit RTS beverage with the objective to evaluate the shelf life of starfruit RTS beverage. The prepared starfruit RTS beverages were stored at ambient room temperature condition and refrigerated condition for a period of 30 days. During the storage, the change in organoleptic properties viz. colour, taste, flavour and overall acceptability was recorded to evaluate the shelf life of the starfruit RTS beverage. The samples were analyzed using the 9-point hedonic scale rating method by a panel of five judges at an interval of 15 days for a period of 30 days. The shelf life studies revealed that although there was a change in the organoleptic properties of starfruit RTS beverage samples after 30 days of storage, the changes were less remarkable in the refrigerated storage condition compared to those of the ambient room temperature storage condition. The refrigeration extended the shelf life of the starfruit RTS beverage up to 30 days.
Improving Road Safety: Assessing Curve Geometry of Road Network in Rivers State University Main Campus, Port Harcourt, Nigeria
Authors: Nwaudo Eke, Stanley , Ikenda Eze, Promise
Published: February 2025

The insertion of curves in road designs is of utmost importance for the safety of the driver and commuters. It provides a smooth transition when the roadway changes direction and also ensures that proper and safe sight distances are maintained for the speed which the road will accommodate. Road curves can be horizontal or vertical, each serving a crucial role in safe navigation. The study investigate the curve parameters of selected road network within the main campus of Rivers State University, Nkpolu Oroworukwo, Port Harcourt, Rivers State. The study utilizes the quantitative data collection approach which is based on ground survey data acquisition. Field data were acquired with the use of the Total Station (Kolida KTS 440L) instrument. The Field data were reduced to obtain horizontal and vertical angles and further processing and map production were carried out using specialized surveying and mapping software. Accuracies of approximately 1:16,000 and 0.008 were achieved for traversing and levelling operations respectively and it is within the degree of allowable minimum accuracy of 1:5000 for traversing as stipulated by the Surveyors Council of Nigeria. Findings from the study revealed that the sections of the road network under study covers a total length and width of approximately 2.93km and 7.00m respectively. The parameters for 5 horizontal curves and 6 vertical curves were determined and will be useful to the University Estate and Works Department in ascertaining if the curves parameters noted were in line with the design prior to construction works.
Transsexuality and health care in Europe: integrative review / Transexualidade e atenção à saúde na Europa: revisão Integrativa
Authors: Lemos Adriana , Cardoso Vernaglia Taís Veronica , Lopez Valencillo María , Jimenez José María , Ferreira Ramos Elaine Cristina , Castro María José
Published: February 2025

Objetivo: conhecer a produção bibliográfica sobre o acesso de pessoas trans nos serviços de saúde da Europa. Método: foi realizada uma revisão integrativa efetuada nas bases de dados: Portal de Busca na BVS - Espanha, InDICEs CSIC (Ciências Sociais e Médicas), SCOPUS e InfoPsy. Resultados: foram encontrados 509 artigos, e após terem sido aplicados os critérios de inclusão e exclusão, foram selecionados um total de 12 artigos. Esses achados se assemelham com os estudos do Brasil; a Espanha foi o país com maior número de publicações. Considerações finais: a despatologização da transexualidade foi um dos temas praticamente não abordados nos estudos.
Demyelinating neuropathy as the initial presentation of familial E200K Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease in two patients
Authors: Delorme Cécile , Pégat Antoine , Theuriet Julian , Brandel Jean‐Philippe , Roze Emmanuel , Viala Karine , Zyss Julie , Thobois Stéphane , Fourier Anthony , Bernard Emilien , Svahn Juliette , Laurencin Chloé , Jaulent Paul , Vandendries Christophe , Quadrio Isabelle , Desestret Virginie , Meyronet David , Maisonobe Thierry , Haïk Stéphane , Seilhean Danielle
Published: January 2025

Objective

To describe peripheral neuropathy associated with familial Creutzfeldt‐Jakob disease.

Methods

We report two unrelated patients with genetic Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease with demyelinating peripheral neuropathy as initial presentation, with a comprehensive clinical, electrophysiological and neuropathological description.

Results

Both patients exhibited gait disturbance and paresthesia. Electrodiagnostic studies revealed demyelinating abnormalities with motor conduction blocks suggestive of chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy, with abnormal plexus MRI and elevated CSF protein levels. One of them had pes cavus and a late‐onset Charcot–Marie‐Tooth (CMT) disease was also initially hypothesized. Central nervous system involvement manifested 1–2 years after the onset of peripheral symptoms. Both patients had a heterozygous E200K mutation in the PRNP gene. Postmortem neuropathological examinations showed PrPSc deposits in the peripheral nervous system, particularly in Schwann cells. Interpretation: Peripheral neuropathy in E200K genetic forms of Creutzfeldt‐Jakob disease can be inaugural and mimic chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy.
Photothermal Coating on Zinc Alloy for Controlled Biodegradation and Improved Osseointegration
Authors: Hsu Yuchien , He Yunjiao , Zhao Xiao , Wang Feilong , Yang Fan , Zheng Yufeng , Zhou Yongsheng , Xia Dandan , Liu Yunsong
Published: January 2025

Zinc (Zn) and its alloys are promising biomaterials for orthopedic applications due to their degradability and mechanical properties. Zn2+ plays a crucial role in bone formation, but excessive early release may cause cytotoxicity and inhibit osseointegration. To solve this, we developed a near‐infrared (NIR) light‐controlled polycaprolactone/copper‐sulfur (PCL/CuS) coating that slows degradation and enhances osseointegration of Zn alloys. The zinc–lithium (Zn–Li) substrate is encapsulated with PCL, reducing Zn2+ release and maintaing biocompatibility. Controlled Zn2+ release and mild photothermal therapy via CuS nanoparticles promoted osteogenesis. In vitro studies demonstrated enhanced cell proliferation and osteogenic differentiation. In vivo Micro‐Computed Tomography (Micro‐CT), Scanning Electron Microscopy‐Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (SEM‐EDS), and immunohistochemical analyses confirmed improved osseointegration. Mechanistic studies using RNA sequencing and Western blotting revealed that the coating promotes osteogenesis by activating the Wnt/β‐catenin and inhibiting NF‐κB pathways. This NIR light‐controlled PCL/CuS coating successfully regulates Zn alloy degradation, enhances osseointegration via controlled Zn2+ release and mild photothermal therapy effct, presenting a promising avenue for orthopedic biomaterials.
Scale‐free Spatio‐temporal Correlations in Conformational Fluctuations of Intrinsically Disordered Proteins
Authors: Song Haoyu , Cui Jian , Hu Guorong , Xiong Long , Wutthinitikornkit Yanee , Lei Hai , Li Jingyuan
Published: January 2025

The self‐assembly of intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) into condensed phases and the formation of membrane‐less organelles (MLOs) can be considered as the phenomenon of collective behavior. The conformational dynamics of IDPs are essential for their interactions and the formation of a condensed phase. From a physical perspective, collective behavior and the emergence of phase are associated with long‐range correlations. Here the conformational dynamics of IDPs and the correlations therein are analyzed, using µs‐scale atomistic molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and single‐molecule Förster resonance energy transfer (smFRET) experiments. The existence of typical scale‐free spatio‐temporal correlations in IDP conformational fluctuations is demonstrated. Their conformational evolutions exhibit “1/f noise” power spectra and are accompanied by the appearance of residue domains following a power‐law size distribution. Additionally, the motions of residues present scale‐free behavioral correlation. These scale‐free correlations resemble those in physical systems near critical points, suggesting that IDPs are poised at a critical state. Therefore, IDPs can effectively respond to finite differences in sequence compositions and engender considerable structural heterogeneity which is beneficial for IDP interactions and phase formation.