bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Getting British Businesses to Switch to An
Authors: Pateman Chris
Published: January 2025

We’ve been making telephone calls over copper landlines since the days of plummy-voiced Post Office operators plugging cables into exchange switchboards. Now the deadline’s finally looming for the copper network’s retirement party. And Britain’s businesses are all but oblivious to the potential risks to their companies’ support and alarm services.
Optimized Deep Graph Shallow Attention Neural Network Based Four-port Multiple-input-multiple-output Antenna Design for Sub-6 GHz 5G Applications
Authors: Suganya E. , Pushpa T. Anita Jones Mary , Prabhu T.
Published: January 2025

This paper proposes a novel, four-port multiple-input-multiple-output antenna system that is considered for sub-6 GHz 5G applications. A compact multi-band circular printed monopole antenna (MCPMA) is designed for determining the appropriate dimensions of size 110.16×360 mm. The device operates from 0.6 to 1 GHz. To improve cell isolation, four slits are positioned at an angle on the common ground. Deep graph shallow attention neural network with adaptive gold rush optimization algorithm (DGSANN-AGROA) is employed to create a model establishing the relationship among transmission coefficients and antenna geometric parameters. Following this, an adaptive gold rush optimization algorithm (AGROA) is utilized to enhance the antenna array’s decoupling. It showcases pattern diversity, a valuable characteristic for multiple-input-multiple-output implementation. Simulations were conducted using HFSS19 software versions, followed by an evaluation of the introduced antenna in MATLAB. The multiple-input-multiple-output antenna demonstrates favorable diversity characteristics with acceptable diversity gain (>9.5 dB) and envelope correlation coefficient (ECC) (≤0.009).
Calculative Method on Electromechanical Strength for Rectangular and T-Shaped Rail over a Flat Surface Armature
Authors: Kumar M. N. Saravana , Murugan R. , Lydia J. , Vimalraj S. Leones Sherwin
Published: January 2025

The electromagnetic railgun launching (EMRL) system is a type of long-range projectile launch that does not require any chemical propellant and can accelerate masses ranging from milligrams to kilograms to velocities of more than several kilometers per second. To make the rail stronger, electromechanical strength analysis was performed by calculating the area’s moment of inertia and critical velocity. One of the most essential mechanical aspects of rails is their moment of inertia, which has a direct impact on critical velocity and launch performance. Geometry and material both have an impact on the rails’ electromechanical performance. This paper describes the increase in electromechanical performance achieved by constructing two types of rail cross-sections - rectangular rails and T-shaped rails - based on structural analysis and current distribution from coupled electromagnetic (EM) simulation. The investigation found that T-shaped rails have higher moments of inertia than rectangular rails for the same cross-sectional area and width. However, the mechanical performance differences between the two geometries are not significant. Therefore, the advantage of larger moments of inertia for a given cross-sectional area is limited. EM analysis has been extended to a 3-D finite element method (FEM) for both rails by linking it with Simplorer using the Maxwell-Simplorer coupled (MSC) method with a flat surface C-shaped armature. When compared to rectangular and T-shaped rails, the T-shaped rail has a lower current density at the inner curvature but a greater at the contact interface.
Integral Sliding Mode Control with Exponential Approximation Law for an AMB Rotor System Considering the Alford Force
Authors: Zhang Siyuan , Zhou Jin
Published: January 2025

In order to deal with the nonlinear problems associated with the Alford force and active bearing rotor system in fluid machinery, an integral sliding mode control with exponential reaching law is proposed in this paper. An integral term is incorporated into the switching function, and an exponential approaching law, along with a boundary layer saturation function that replaces the symbolic function, is adopted to suppress the chattering and tracking error of sliding mode control. Simulation and experimental results show that, under the magnetic bearing force and Alford force, the system exhibits improved anti-disturbance performance compared to a PID controller. Moreover, the rotor amplitude is reduced by 33% when using this controller. The proposed controller demonstrates good dynamic performance and strong robustness, even when the parameters of the entire system are perturbed.
The influence of public policy and administration expertise on policy: an empirical study
Authors: Haunschild Robin , Williams Kate , Bornmann Lutz
Published: January 2025

Academic expertise is a key pillar of governance processes around the world. A goal of policy and public sector actors is to draw on research to improve decision making, and correspondingly, a goal of public policy and public administration researchers is to provide relevant expertise. It is not clear, however, to what extent these goals are achieved. This study uses the Overton database to analyse the influence of public policy and administration research on policy documents (broadly defined as documents published by policy and public sector organisations). It considers which research is cited by policy documents and which organisations cite research more than others to justify their decisions. The findings show that measuring the influence of academic expertise is not straightforward conceptually or methodologically. However, they emphasise the role of different organisation types for achieving a greater correspondence between research and policy. Specifically, our study shows that think tanks use public policy and administration research more often than government organisations when justifying decisions. The findings provide insight into the utility of new policy databases in illuminating how academic experts can influence the ideas and actions of policy and public sector actors.
Voices, imaginaries and agency of Ukrainian and Moldovan transnational children
Authors: Telegdi-Csetri Áron , Ducu Viorela , Hărăguș Mihaela
Published: January 2025

Situated at the intersection of transnational family studies and the sociology of childhood, the article gives a voice to children in Moldovan and Ukrainian labour migrants’ families, viewing their imaginary and practices in reconstructing their transnational world as displays of their agency. Based on data from 88 interviews with children, our findings show how children’s indirect transnational experience and their imaginary lead to accomplishments, such as normalising their situation through same-status peer groups; overcoming a sense of victimisation and assuming more responsibilities; and investing in extracurricular activities to create meaning, make good use of their time, and build self-image in a socially mediated manner. Children maintain an openness to study abroad as an important goal and an opportunity for future success, correlated with children’s studies as a rationale for parental migration. Personal migration plans are nonetheless equivocal given both a familiarity with the ‘abroad’ and a heightened importance of family and homeland.
Historia Magistra Vitae Est : A Historiographical Look at Twentieth-Century Biographies of Pope John XXIII
Authors: Gabrielli Timothy R.
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACT: The sixtieth anniversary in 2023 of Pope John XXIII's death calls to mind the twentieth-century U.S. reception of his election and papacy. By many, John XXIII was deemed "revolutionary." Yet accounts of what Pope John's revolution entailed and how he worked to facilitate it varied among English-language chroniclers over the course of the twentieth century. A representative study of these biographies, written primarily by journalists-turned-historians, demonstrates that from John's election to the papacy of Pope John Paul II, they portray the pope through their ecclesiological expectations and hopes. In their hands, Pope John XXIII is an emblem of what the Catholic Church should be, either as a conciliatory, humble presence to the wider U.S. population or, later, as a counterpoint to the style and leadership of his successors.
Spiritual Sensuality Versus the "Esquire Mentality": Catholic Converts Dorothy Day, Clare Boothe Luce, and Thomas Merton and the Quest for Companionate Love
Authors: Hunter Emily J.
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACT: In the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, some notable American Catholic thinkers began to question their church's traditional teachings about the institution of marriage. These thinkers believed that it was possible to retain the essential tenets of their faith while simultaneously embracing certain aspects of American secular modernity, including companionate marriage and a favorable view of romantic sensuality. This article will explore the spiritual journeys of Dorothy Day, Clare Boothe Luce, and Thomas Merton, three notable American Catholic converts, in the context of the companionate marriage movement and in relation to a concept I have dubbed the " Esquire Mentality," which refers to a celebration of transactional sexuality that emerged in the early twentieth century. I argue that the rise of a new consumer culture in the early decades of the twentieth century helped to foster an outlook, celebrated in certain types of popular media (such as Esquire magazine) where men were encouraged to use women as social currency and women were encouraged to embrace the role of "gold-digger." In their respective spiritual journeys, Day, Luce, and Merton simultaneously embraced the principles of the companionate marriage movement and offered powerful repudiations of the Esquire Mentality.
Eochaid Éolach and the transmission of the Dindṡenchas of Loch Garman
Authors: McMullen A. Joseph , Darwin Gregory R.
Published: January 2025

Abstract: Following recent work that has begun to reassess previously held views about the recensions of Dindṡenchas Érenn , this article examines the authorship and transmission history of the dindṡenchas of Loch Garman, which exists in two prose versions and one verse composition. We first argue that the verse dindṡenchas of Loch Garman is the product of a single author, Eochaid Éolach úa Céirín, refuting Tomás Ó Concheanainn's assertion that Eochaid composed only the second half of the poem. We then examine the individual versions of the dindṡenchas of Loch Garman to posit a new relative chronology, with potential ramifications for an understanding of the recensions of the Dindṡenchas .
A Longitudinal Study of Maternal Depression and Anxiety and Preschool Executive Functioning and Receptive Vocabulary as Predictors of Elementary School Academic Competence
Authors: Gagne Jeffrey R. , Barker Kaelyn , Chang Chi-Ning , Sangwan Raashi , Zhao Yingying , Yu Fanyi , Kwok Oi-Man
Published: January 2025

Abstract: Early emerging executive functioning is associated with important emotional, social, and academic outcomes, including academic competence in elementary school. Employing a family study design, the current study investigated pre-schoolers’ executive functioning and receptive vocabulary knowledge, maternal depression and anxiety measured when the children were in preschool, and elementary school academic competence longitudinally. The primary aim of the research was to examine relations between preschooler executive functioning and receptive vocabulary, maternal depression and anxiety, and parent-rated elementary school academic competence. Families with two children between 2.5 and 5.5 years of age ( n = 198; mean age = 3.88, SD = 1.04) participated in online surveys, a laboratory visit, and another online survey after the children entered elementary school. Preschool inhibitory control and receptive vocabulary were significantly associated with academic competence in elementary school (but working memory was not), child age was related to preschool executive functioning and receptive vocabulary, and maternal depression was associated with preschool receptive vocabulary. Our longitudinal findings indicate that enhancing early inhibitory control and receptive vocabulary could support transitions to elementary school.
Show Me How You Feel on Your Face: Preschool Children’s Capacity to Modulate Emotional Expression
Authors: Kao Katie , Almeida Carlos F. , Tarullo Amanda R.
Published: January 2025

Abstract: Emotion regulation includes the ability to upregulate or enhance the emotional reaction and downregulate or suppress the emotional reaction in accordance with situational demands. However, children’s use of enhancement strategies has been neglected, as has the examination of whether they can flexibly alternate between enhancement and suppression strategies. In the present study, we examine whether preschool children ( N = 61) could intentionally enhance and suppress their emotional expression based on situational demands and its association with modulating their expression in a real-world situation requiring emotion regulation demands. Our findings provide initial evidence that 3-year-old children can enhance positive and negative emotional expressions when the situation demands, with the former being associated with more adaptive emotion regulation strategies in a social situation. The current study identifies expressive emotion enhancement as an emergent skill during the preschool period that may have broader implications for children’s socio-emotional functioning.
Faith or Family? How Shincheonji Church of Jesus Members Navigate the Tragic Dilemma Between Religious Commitment and Filial Familism
Authors: Briggs Mary
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACT: In the first two decades of the twenty-first century, popular media and prominent Protestant figures alike have portrayed the Shincheonji Church of Jesus (hereon Shincheonji) as a destructive force on South Korean families, specifically alleging that it ruins the parent-child relationship. Based on the evidence of my qualitative interviews and written correspondences with a sample of Shincheonji members, I realized that members typically must contend with a seeming incompatibility between being faithful believers according to Shincheonji and good children according to traditional South Korean parenting. In this article, building on the work of Cheryl Mattingly, I argue that my participants and Shincheonji practitioners are faced with a tragic ethical dilemma following and feel torn between being faithful believers and being good children. To account for the tragic dimension of this dilemma, I first examine the importance of what I call South Korean filial familism. Second, I present a case study of one of my research participants, whom I refer to as Young-ja, to show the consequences of this tragic ethical dilemma.
Presencing, Immersion, and Community: How Conspiracy Theory Belief Is Kindled Online
Authors: Fountain T. Kenny , Jennings Chandler
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACT: We bring together work in religious studies and literary and rhetorical studies to propose that absorption-like experiences of immersion and emotional presencing contribute to conspiracy theory belief, especially in digital media environments. First, we review literature in religious studies and psychology to suggest an empirical and theoretical basis for connecting the human propensity for absorption and immersion with conspiracy theory belief. Second, we turn to Tanya Luhrmann’s model of how religious and spiritual belief is created. We argue that Luhrmann’s work on faith frames, paracosms, and religious kindling offers insights into the lived experience of conspiracy theory belief. Third, we extend these insights through rhetorical and literary research on presencing and immersion to provide a more complete account of absorption. Finally, drawing on digital ethnographic data, we demonstrate how emotional presencing, imaginative absorption, and social immersion play out in the digital life of QAnon as a religiously inflected conspiracy theory.
Robotics and optical coherence tomography: current works and future perspectives [Invited]
Authors: Ma Guangshen , McCloud Morgan , Tian Yuan , Narawane Amit , Shi Harvey , Trout Robert , McNabb Ryan P. , Kuo Anthony N. , Draelos Mark
Published: January 2025

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is an interferometric technique for micron-level imaging in biological and non-biological contexts. As a non-invasive, non-ionizing, and video-rate imaging modality, OCT is widely used in biomedical and clinical applications, especially ophthalmology, where it functions in many roles, including tissue mapping, disease diagnosis, and intrasurgical visualization. In recent years, the rapid growth of medical robotics has led to new applications for OCT, primarily for 3D free-space scanning, volumetric perception, and novel optical designs for specialized medical applications. This review paper surveys these recent developments at the intersection of OCT and robotics and organizes them by degree of integration and application, with a focus on biomedical and clinical topics. We conclude with perspectives on how these recent innovations may lead to further advances in imaging and medical technology.
Optically transparent dual-band microwave chiral metamaterial based on ITO strips
Authors: Shen Yang , Chen Kejian , Zeng Xiaofen , Wang Qian , Wang Yifeng , Zhu Yifan , Wang Xiong , Zhou Zheqi , Zhuang Songlin
Published: January 2025

In this paper, an optically transparent dual-band microwave chiral metamaterial based on indium tin oxide (ITO) strips is proposed. The rotation angle and length of the three ITO strips on the structural layer can be varied to generate two independent frequency bands in the circular dichroism (CD) spectrum. The maximum CD value is 0.72, and the optical transmittance reaches 64%. The experimental and simulation results are largely in agreement. Moreover, a designed optically transparent 2D microwave image encoder is proposed as a potential application. The proposed device has considerable potential for application in the fields of signal transmission, information coding, and homeland security.
5-DoF-transformation-based statistical characterization of optical-wave fluctuations arising from propagation in atmospheric turbulence with arbitrarily orientated anisotropy ellipsoids
Authors: Chen Chunyi , Yang Huamin
Published: January 2025

Turbulence in certain portions of the atmosphere is anisotropic and its anisotropy ellipsoids may exhibit an arbitrary orientation with respect to a given propagation coordinate system. To explore various statistics of optical-wave fluctuations arising from propagation in atmospheric turbulence with arbitrarily oriented anisotropy ellipsoids, a new Markov-approximation-based spectrum model is developed by introducing five independent parameters, specifically, the three Euler angles and two anisotropic coefficients, which thus bring 5 degrees of freedom (DoF) to the model. With the help of such a spectrum model, a 5-DoF-transformation-based approach is proposed to derive analytical expressions for the wave structure function (WSF), log-amplitude-fluctuation spatial covariance function (SCF), and phase-fluctuation SCF of the optical plane and spherical waves propagating in atmospheric turbulence with arbitrarily oriented anisotropy ellipsoids. Insightful relations between various optical-wave fluctuation statistics and certain recognized special refractive-index fluctuation statistics are found and elucidated according to the developed analytical expressions. Various optical-wave fluctuation statistics are numerically examined with different anisotropic coefficients and orientation parameters of anisotropy ellipsoids. The obtained results show that variations in either the anisotropic coefficients or orientation parameters of anisotropy ellipsoids may lead to obvious changes in the statistical behavior of turbulence-induced optical-wave fluctuations, and hence the said five independent parameters are necessary for analytically dealing with various statistics of optical-wave fluctuations caused by atmospheric turbulence featuring an arbitrary orientation of anisotropy ellipsoids.
High extinction-ratio thin-film lithium niobate modulator integrated with TE-pass waveguide polarizer
Authors: Zhang Yudan , Liu Ge , Dai Xiangyang , Zhang Yiming , Hong Wei , Lu Qiaoyin , Huang Lirong , Guo Weihua
Published: January 2025

Thin-film lithium niobate (TFLN) modulators are expected to play a key role in next-generation optical communication systems. In this work, we present the design, fabrication, and characterization of a TFLN Mach-Zehnder modulator (TFLN-MZM) with high extinction ratio (ER). The fabricated modulator has achieved the ER of 41 dB by integrating a waveguide polarizer, an intentional input-output waveguide misalignment, and a Mach-Zehnder interferometer (MZI) structure composed of 1 × 2 multimode interferometers (MMIs). The polarization extinction ratio (PER) of this integrated waveguide polarizer is 38 dB, effectively filtering out all polarizations except the transverse electric (TE) mode. The measured half-wave voltage (Vπ) for the fabricated modulator with a modulation arm length of 3.3 mm is 7.9 V, corresponding to a voltage-length product of 2.6 V·cm. The proposed modulator improves the extinction ratio without the need for additional control circuits, and thus it has wide applications in optical communication, quantum key distribution, lidar, fiber-optic distributed acoustic sensing (DAS), etc.
Color variations of silicon-on-insulator wafers with silicon device layer thickness
Authors: Seely John F.
Published: January 2025

The perceived colors of silicon-on-insulator (SOI) wafers with etched Si surface layers of thickness 90 nm to 30 nm vary from turquoise to purple to golden. Measured reflectance curves spanning ultraviolet, visible, and near infrared wavelengths have an amplitude modulated oscillatory pattern. Multilayer reflectance calculations indicate the oscillatory pattern results from the 2 µm thick buried SiO2 layer which functions as a nearly lossless reflective Fabry-Perot etalon in the near infrared where SiO2 and Si are transparent. The amplitude modulation of the oscillatory pattern in the visible region where Si is absorbing results from thin-film effects in the Si surface layer. The changing modulation with Si thickness and wavelength results in the observed color variations. It is therefore possible to estimate the Si thickness based on the etched SOI wafer color observed visually. This ability is useful when initially optimizing the etching process to produce a specific thin Si layer, for example when fabricating photodiodes or other photonic devices on SOI wafers. Accurate measurements of the Si thickness and the buried SiO2 thickness can be performed by analyzing the modulated oscillatory reflectance curve using multilayer reflectance calculations.
Eight quick tips for biologically and medically informed machine learning
Authors: Oneto Luca , Chicco Davide
Published: January 2025

Machine learning has become a powerful tool for computational analysis in the biomedical sciences, with its effectiveness significantly enhanced by integrating domain-specific knowledge. This integration has give rise to informed machine learning, in contrast to studies that lack domain knowledge and treat all variables equally (uninformed machine learning). While the application of informed machine learning to bioinformatics and health informatics datasets has become more seamless, the likelihood of errors has also increased. To address this drawback, we present eight guidelines outlining best practices for employing informed machine learning methods in biomedical sciences. These quick tips offer recommendations on various aspects of informed machine learning analysis, aiming to assist researchers in generating more robust, explainable, and dependable results. Even if we originally crafted these eight simple suggestions for novices, we believe they are deemed relevant for expert computational researchers as well.
Multi-region infectious disease prediction modeling based on spatio-temporal graph neural network and the dynamic model
Authors: Wang Xiaoyi , Jin Zhen
Published: January 2025

Human mobility between different regions is a major factor in large-scale outbreaks of infectious diseases. Deep learning models incorporating infectious disease transmission dynamics for predicting the spread of multi-regional outbreaks due to human mobility have become a hot research topic. In this study, we incorporate the Graph Transformer Neural Network and graph learning mechanisms into a metapopulation SIR model to build a hybrid framework, Metapopulation Graph Transformer Neural Network (M-Graphormer), for high-dimensional parameter estimation and multi-regional epidemic prediction. The framework effectively solves the problem that existing models may lose some hidden spatial dependencies in the data when dealing with the dynamic graph structure of the network due to human mobility. We performed multi-wave infectious disease prediction in multiple regions based on real epidemic data. The results show that the framework is capable of performing high-dimensional parameter estimation and accurately predicting epidemic transmission dynamics in multiple regions even with low data quality. In addition, we retrospectively extrapolate the temporal evolution patterns of contact rate under different interventions implemented in different regions, reflecting the dynamics of intervention intensity and the need for flexibility in adjusting interventions in different regions. To provide early warning of infectious disease transmission, we retrospectively predicted the arrival time of infectious diseases using data from the early stages of outbreaks.
Genetic gradual reduction of OGT activity unveils the essential role of O-GlcNAc in the mouse embryo
Authors: Formichetti Sara , Sadowska Agnieszka , Ascolani Michela , Hansen Julia , Ganter Kerstin , Lancrin Christophe , Humphreys Neil , Boulard Mathieu
Published: January 2025

The reversible glycosylation of nuclear and cytoplasmic proteins (O-GlcNAcylation) is catalyzed by a single enzyme, namely O-GlcNAc transferase (OGT). The mammalian Ogt gene is X-linked, and it is essential for embryonic development and for the viability of proliferating cells. We perturbed OGT’s function in vivo by creating a murine allelic series of four single amino acid substitutions, reducing OGT’s catalytic activity to a range of degrees. The severity of the embryonic lethality was proportional to the extent of impairment of OGT’s catalysis, demonstrating that the O-GlcNAc modification itself is required for early development. We identified hypomorphic Ogt alleles that perturb O-GlcNAc homeostasis while being compatible with embryogenesis. The analysis of the transcriptomes of the mutant embryos at different developmental stages suggested a sexually-dimorphic developmental delay caused by the decrease in O-GlcNAc. Furthermore, a mild reduction of OGT’s enzymatic activity was sufficient to loosen the silencing of endogenous retroviruses in vivo.
A new guide for basic psychological support for persons affected by neglected tropical diseases: A peer support tool suitable for persons with a diagnosis of leprosy and lymphatic filariasis
Authors: Nayak Pradeepta K. , Mackenzie Charles D. , Agarwal Ashok , van Wijk Robin , Mol Marente M. , Eaton Julian , Semrau Maya , Valle-Trabadelo Carmen , Kaloiya Gauri S. , Pratap Alok , Kunju Jayashree P. , Krishnasastry Suma , Ferdiana Astri , Marastuti Ariana , Tiwari Rohit K. , van Brakel Wim H.
Published: January 2025

Background

People with disabilities due to neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), such as leprosy and lymphatic filariasis (LF), often encounter situations of stigma and discrimination that significantly impact their mental wellbeing. Mental wellbeing services are often not available at the peripheral level in NTD-endemic countries, and there is a need for such services. Basic psychological support for persons with NTDs (BPS-N) from peers is an important potential solution for addressing mental wellbeing problems. As there was no written document advising delivery of such support, NLR India brought experts together to develop a new guide. This paper describes the process used in developing the guide and provides information about its content.

Methods

As a qualitative and participatory methodology, more than 10 meetings and workshops were held to consider the suitability of existing guides for chronic stress in NTDs and develop a new guide through consensus and adaptations; attendees included both technical experts and affected persons. The first meeting was a 3-day virtual workshop held on 9–11 June 2020, followed by other online meetings. The BPS-N guide development happened during the COVID-19 lockdowns. The Psychological First Aid (PFA) package of WHO was selected as a suitable basic model for adaptation. Aspects of the Rights-Based Counselling intervention were also integrated into the new guide. Two teams were formed for drafting and reviewing the guide.

Results

All suggested changes were discussed, and a consensus reached for developing the document. The affected persons contextualized the content for ensuring its relevance and practicality. The new BPS-N guide was simple, professionally sound, ethical, adequate, and appropriate. The guide promotes knowledge, skills, compassion, and action among peer supporters.

Conclusion

The new guide, through regular trainings, behavior change, and action principles will likely provide much-needed services. It is important that the new guide be now tested, and modifications made if needed.
Exploring barriers to accessing treatment for Lymphatic Filariasis through a socio-ecological lens in Buvuma and Napak districts, Uganda
Authors: Bagonza Arthur , Gibson Linda , Kabiri Lydia , Bezalel Chris , Narahari Saravu Rama Bhat , Franks Peter J. , Musoke David , Moffatt Christine
Published: January 2025

Background

The World Health Organization launched the Global Programme to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis in 2000, which aimed at eradicating the disease by 2030. This goal depends on community mass drug administration and essential care. Despite these efforts, many rural communities still face untreated lymphatic filariasis and lack access to treatment and self-management. Using a socioecological model, this study examined barriers to treatment and support for people living with lymphatic filariasis in Uganda’s Buvuma and Napak districts.

Methods

We conducted 12 key informant interviews with health facility officials, district health officers, and village health team members. Additionally, 19 focus group discussions were held with community members, and nine in-depth interviews were conducted with people living with lymphatic filariasis. This study explored knowledge gaps among those living with lymphatic filariasis and health providers that affect morbidity management and disability prevention, as well as challenges in accessing treatment. Audio recordings were transcribed and managed via ATLAS ti software version 6. Thematic analysis was conducted via the socioecological model framework.

Results

This study identified multiple complex factors affecting healthcare providers and individuals living with lymphatic filariasis, spanning individual, interpersonal, organisational, community, and policy levels. The key themes included stigma and social isolation, healthcare disparities, and healthcare dynamics. Stigma and social isolation result in emotional distress, neglect, exclusion, and self-isolation, which are influenced by community beliefs. Health systems and policy barriers included poverty, inadequate personnel, and insufficient equipment. Structural factors such as geographical remoteness, environmental harshness, and lack of healthcare infrastructure were prominent obstacles to seeking care for lymphatic filariasis management.

Conclusion

This study provides insights into the multilevel factors influencing the understanding and availability of treatment for lymphatic filariasis in Uganda. Addressing sociocultural beliefs, social and interpersonal dynamics, and healthcare disparities is crucial for improving the outcomes and well-being of these rural communities. These findings can aid in managing lymphatic filariasis in Uganda and similar low-resource settings.
Do you have enough space? Habitat selection of insectivorous cave-dwelling bats in fragmented landscapes of Eastern Amazon
Authors: Tavares Valéria da C. , Ribeiro Mariane S. , Prous Xavier , Notini Alice A. , Kaku-Oliveira Nathalia Y. , Maciel Leandro M. D. , Sales Sérgio , Longo Juliana M. , Evangelista Flávia M. , Rabelo Lucas , Brandi Iuri V. , Vasconcelos Santelmo S. , Talamoni Sonia S. , Oliveira Guilherme , Trevelin Leonardo C.
Published: January 2025

Individual movements of bats are triggered by their life requirements, limited by their recognition of the environment and risks of moving, and mediated by habitat selection. Mining adds fragmentation and heterogeneity to landscapes, with poorly understood consequences to the life activities of the bats. Cave dwelling bats spend most of their life cycles within caves, and as they constantly forage in external landscapes, their contribution in the input of organic matter to the caves is of paramount importance to the subterranean biodiversity. We investigated habitat selection by cave bats in a mosaic of Amazonian forests, iron-rich savannas and iron-caves, studying the movements of the aerial insect-catcher Furipterus horrens (Furipteridae) and of the foliage gleaning bat Lonchorhina aurita (Phyllostomidae), both cave-dependent in the area. We used radio telemetry to assess their use of habitats, under the prediction that these species prefer preserved habitats for their foraging bouts, avoiding human-modified habitats. We also anticipated larger areas and commuting distances for both species when foraging in disturbed landscapes. Thirty-one bats were monitored in conserved habitats, mining sites and pastures resulting in an average range of 415.1 ± 837.4 ha and average commuting distances of 2163 ± 2453 m (F. horrens) and 681.1 ± 1101 ha and 2781.5 ± 2333 m (L. aurita). Our results suggest that F. horrens are open space foragers, frequently recorded in cangas, and L. aurita are forest foragers that use all habitats proportionally to their availability in the landscape. We detected landscape-related effects mediated by seasonal variation in the maximum commuting distance performed by both species. These are the first radiotelemetry data available for F. horrens and L. aurita, delivering original baselines to understand their movement behaviors. This information sheds light into constraints related to the optimal and adjusted biological cycles of these two species and their range shifts under scenarios of disturbance and may subsidize programs for their conservation.
Multifaceted confidence in exploratory choice
Authors: Solopchuk Oleg , Dayan Peter
Published: January 2025

Our choices are typically accompanied by a feeling of confidence—an internal estimate that they are correct. Correctness, however, depends on our goals. For example, exploration-exploitation problems entail a tension between short- and long-term goals: finding out about the value of one option could mean foregoing another option that is apparently more rewarding. Here, we hypothesised that after making an exploratory choice that involves sacrificing an immediate gain, subjects will be confident that they chose a better option for long-term rewards, but not confident that it was a better option for immediate reward. We asked 250 subjects across 2 experiments to perform a varying-horizon two-arm bandits task, in which we asked them to rate their confidence that their choice would lead to more immediate, or more total reward. Confirming previous studies, we found a significant increase in exploration with increasing trial horizon, but, contrary to our predictions, we found no difference between confidence in immediate or total reward. This dissociation is further evidence for a separation in the mechanisms involved in choices and confidence judgements.
Gluteus medius muscle activation patterns during gait with Cerebral Palsy (CP): A hierarchical clustering analysis
Authors: Davoudi Mehrdad , Salami Firooz , Reisig Robert , Gather Katharina S. , Wolf Sebastian I.
Published: January 2025

Duchenne gait, characterized by an ipsilateral trunk lean towards the affected stance limb, compensates for weak hip abductor muscles, notably the gluteus medius (GM). This study aims to investigate how electromyographic (EMG) cluster analysis of GM contributes to a better understanding of Duchenne gait in patients with cerebral palsy (CP). We analyzed retrospective gait data from 845 patients with CP and 65 typically developed individuals. EMG activity of GM in envelope format were collected and examined with gait kinematics and kinetics parameters in frontal plane and hip abductor strength, and hip abduction passive range of motion. Six key EMG envelope features during ten gait phases were extracted and normalized. A hybrid K-means-PSO clustering algorithm was employed, followed by hierarchical clustering. The identified clusters were characterized by having a low (cluster_1), medium (cluster_2), and high (cluster_3) activity of GM during loading response. The patients in cluster_1 also exhibited pathological gait characteristics, including increased trunk lateral lean and weak hip abductor, which are associated with Duchenne gait. The patients in this cluster were subclustered according to their response to the intervention: SUB_1 with a significant improvement in trunk obliquity, pelvic obliquity, and hip abduction after intervention, and SUB_2 without such improvement. Comparing pre-treatment EMG and clinical exam of the sub_clusters, SUB_1 had significantly higher activity of GM during 50–87% of the gait cycle with a greater passive range of hip abduction compared to SUB_2. This study established a relationship between EMG of GM and frontal plane gait abnormalities in patients with CP, highlighting potential improvement in Duchenne gait with prolonged GM activity during swing after the intervention.
Methylome profiling of cell-free DNA during the early life course in (un)complicated pregnancies using MeD-seq: Protocol for a cohort study embedded in the prospective Rotterdam periconception cohort
Authors: van Vliet Marjolein M. , Schoenmakers Sam , Boers Ruben G. , van der Meeren Lotte E. , Gribnau Joost , Steegers-Theunissen Régine P. M.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Placental DNA methylation differences have been associated with timing in gestation and pregnancy complications. Maternal cell-free DNA (cfDNA) partly originates from the placenta and could enable the minimally invasive study of placental DNA methylation dynamics. We will for the first time longitudinally investigate cfDNA methylation during pregnancy by using Methylated DNA Sequencing (MeD-seq), which is compatible with low cfDNA levels and has an extensive genome-wide coverage. We aim to investigate DNA methylation in placental tissues and cfDNA during different trimesters in uncomplicated pregnancies, and in pregnancies with placental-related complications, including preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction. Identified gestational-age and disease-specific differentially methylated regions (DMRs) could lead to numerous applications including biomarker development.

Methods and analysis

Our study design involves three sub-studies. Sub-study 1 is a single-centre prospective, observational subcohort embedded within the Rotterdam Periconception cohort (Predict study). We will longitudinally collect maternal plasma in each trimester and during delivery, and sample postpartum placentas (n = 300). In sub-study 2, we will prospectively collect first and second trimester placental tissues (n = 10 per trimester). In sub-study 3 we will retrospectively collect plasma after non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) in an independent validation case-control cohort (n = 30–60). A methylation-dependent restriction enzyme (LpnPI) will be used to generate DNA fragments followed by sequencing on the Illumina NextSeq2000 platform. DMRs will be identified in placental tissues and cell types, and in cfDNA related to gestational-age or placental-related complications. (Paired) placental methylation profiles will be correlated to DMRs in cfDNA to aid tissue-of-origin analysis. We will establish a methylation score to predict associated diseases.

Discussion

This study will provide insights in placental DNA methylation dynamics in health and disease, and could lead to clinical relevant biomarkers.
Design and evaluation of a problem-based learning VR module for apparel fit correction training
Authors: Galada Aditi , Baytar Fatma
Published: January 2025

The increased adoption of three-dimensional (3D) digital prototyping software programs makes it necessary to train novice designers to use these programs efficiently. However, existing studies spanning from engineering to design education indicate that students feel incompetent in understanding 3D digital prototypes and navigating the software, so there is a need to find effective training methods. In the current study, training modules were developed to teach participants fit correction skills through an iterative problem-based learning (PBL) approach. A review of the literature was performed to develop the fit correction tasks and guide the module development process. Expert feedback was used to fine-tune the tasks and module interface. The current study explored the effects of PBL-based virtual reality (VR) training on learning how to correct two-dimensional (2D) apparel patterns to improve consequent 3D garment fit. Results indicated that the training module significantly improved spatial visualization and fit correction skills. Participants with higher apparel spatial visualization skills saw a higher improvement in fit correction skills because of the training. At lower spatial visualization skill levels, women saw a higher increase in apparel spatial visualization skills after the training than men but the difference between the learning outcomes across genders reduced when participants had higher spatial skills before training. These findings were supported by the results of qualitative data obtained through interviews. The participants found the PBL approach, immediate feedback, and aid in visualization through garment simulations beneficial for understanding the concepts. At the same time, they indicated that the training module could be used as a supplement to the traditional classroom but cannot replace the physical garment fitting practice. The findings of the study verified that PBL using virtual garment simulations can have a positive impact on learning outcomes and help identify the stage of education at which learners can be exposed to PBL.
Preliminary experience and learning curve of endoscopic nipple-areolar-complex sparing total mastectomy: A single-center retrospective study
Authors: Yu Da young , Lee Tae Yul , Kim Duk Woo , Chang Young Woo , Son Gil Soo , Lee Hye Yoon
Published: January 2025

Background

In this study, the preliminary experience of endoscopic nipple-areolar-complex (NAC) sparing total mastectomy were analyzed and reported.

Methods

The medical records of the patients who underwent Endoscopic NAC sparing total mastectomy from November 2019 to June 2022 in a single institute were collected and analyzed. The medical records of their clinicopathologic characteristics, perioperative parameters, postoperative complications, oncologic results were collected retrospectively. The learning curve was evaluated using univariable and multivariable analyses and analyzed using the CUSUM method.

Results

A total of 56 surgeries from 53 patients were analyzed. The mean total operation time was 272.50±66.74 minutes while mean oncologic mastectomy was 155.61±43.21 minutes. The mean postoperative hospital days were 9.85±4.70 days. In CUSUM analysis, the cases needed to decrease operation time were 10th. The overall complication rate related to implant was 15.09%. There were one locoregional recurrence patient and one distant metastasis and mortality patient observed during median follow-up of 19.12±12.01 months.

Conclusion

According to our preliminary study, endoscopic NAC sparing total mastectomy is a safe procedure, and the operation time can be reduced with accumulated surgical experience.
Healthcare providers’ (HCPs) perspectives in initiating discussion on mammogram screening, and their perceived barriers and enablers to screening in women—A qualitative study
Authors: Wang Xuefei , Leow Qi He Mabel , Lee Hwee Khim , Mok Ching Yee , Wong Wei Teen , Quah Hui Min Joanne , Tan Ngiap Chuan
Published: January 2025

Background

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women, and mammogram screening can reduce breast cancer mortality. Healthcare providers’ perspectives can have an impact on encouraging females to attend mammogram screening.

Objective

To understand healthcare providers’ (HCPs) perspectives in initiating discussion on mammogram screening, and their perceived barriers and enablers to screening in women.

Method

A qualitative descriptive study design was used. Focus group discussions (FGD) were conducted with a purposive sample of doctors and nurses from SingHealth Polyclinics between February 2019 to July 2020. “The Generalists’ Wheel of Knowledge, Understanding and Inquiry” was adopted as the conceptual framework to design the interview guide and analyse the data.

Results

Thirty participants consisting of 14 doctors and 16 nurses were interviewed across five FGDs. HCPs personal factors such as gender, their personal experience with mammogram, and years of work experience influenced counselling. They perceived that patients’ language, education status, previous experience with mammogram, misconceptions, and fear of mammogram results were potential barriers to mammogram. HCPs believed they had the knowledge to provide information and initiate discussions on mammogram screening. Healthcare factors were cost, accessibility to screening, consultation time constraints, and inadequate information in health records.

Conclusion

HCPs’ information mastery and personal experiences were enablers in encouraging females to attend mammogram screening. Lack of information in the health records was a barrier to providing continuity of care.

Implications for practice

Nurses should be opportunistic in initiating conversations and encourage women on mammogram screening when they visit the clinic. Training and being updated on mammography screening guidelines is important for clinicians to initiate and provide discussions on mammogram screening.