bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Empirical model of the total transmission of light in turbid media
Authors: Ni Dongqin , Hohmann Martin
Published: December 2024

The objective of this study is to develop an empirical model for the total transmission in turbid media, which will use the optical properties such as the absorption coefficient, scattering coefficient, and anisotropy factor to predict the total transmission. An empirical model based on the relationship between the total transmission and collimated transmission, integrating an error term to account for discrepancies arising from scattering and absorption effects, is introduced. Monte Carlo simulations were employed to generate data across varying optical properties. The model’s parameters were determined through fitting algorithms and further refined using Bayesian inference, ensuring independence among variables. The results demonstrate that while the total transmission can be accurately described across a range of refractive indices, the quality of the model deteriorates with increasing scattering coefficients. This empirical model offers a rapid and reasonably accurate estimation of the total transmission, with potential applications in fields requiring quick assessments of light propagation in turbid media.
Shaping picosecond quasi-triangular laser pulses during the sum frequency generation
Authors: Kuzmin I. V. , Mironov S. Yu. , Martyanov M. A. , Poteomkin A. K.
Published: December 2024

Numerical methods were used to show that chirped ultraviolet (UV) laser pulses of picosecond duration with quasi-triangular temporal intensity distribution may be shaped during collinear sum frequency generation by super-Gaussian pulses with opposite frequency chirps.
Barriers and facilitators to physical activity among Black women: A qualitative systematic review and thematic synthesis
Authors: Howard Sherron L. , Bartholomew John B.
Published: December 2024

American Black women are less physically active than other American women. While a number of qualitative studies have investigated this issue, there has been no effort to synthesize this literature. Purpose: This study aimed to utilize qualitative thematic synthesis to employ the intersectionality framework in synthesizing existing published qualitative studies on barriers to and facilitators of physical activity for Black women and reflect constructs related to (a) all American women, (b) Black Americans, and (c) Black women. This qualitative thematic synthesis included 18 studies published from 2011 to 2023. Studies were coded for quality and then reviewed with their themes identified and inductively integrated across the studies. The resulting themes were then deductively placed within a broader structure of the intersectionality framework. Reflecting this framework, three categories were identified: (1) general experience of physical activity for women, regardless of race, with themes of (a) motivation, (b) structed support, (c) overall health, (d) environment; (2) general experiences of physical activity for Black Americans, with a sub-theme of (a) low access; and (3) specific, intersectional experiences of physical activity for Black women, with sub-themes of (a) black hair, and (b) body ideal. Our synthesis of the existing qualitative research revealed that Black women experience PA related to being a woman, to being Black, and to the intersectional nature of being a Black woman. Interventions might target these intersectional themes to tailor interventions to support PA in Black women.
Associations of work characteristics with obesity, behavioral risk factors and NCDs in Bangkok, Thailand
Authors: Nasueb Sopit , Kosiyaporn Hathairat , Cetthakrikul Nisachol , Adhibai Rujira , Thiphong Jiranun , Pumsutas Yanisa , Waleewong Orratai
Published: December 2024

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are one of the premature causes of death in Thailand especially among working age group. This study aims to examine the associations between work characteristics and NCDs, obesity, and behavioral risk factors in Bangkok, the Capital of Thailand. This study employed secondary data analysis of cross-sectional data from the Health Behavior of Population Survey 2021 by the National Statistical Office (NSO). The respondents who were 15–60 years old and resided in Bangkok were included in this study (n = 4,925). The data were analyzed by descriptive statistics of work characteristics, and multiple logistic regression between working groups and behavioral risks adjusted with other demographic and socioeconomic variables. The study found that all workers showed a lower likelihood of reporting NCDs compared to the unemployed. Professional/administrative/managerial workers had 44% less chances of reporting NCDs compared to unemployed (AOR = 0.56; 95%CI = 0.43–0.75; P-value <0.001. All working groups showed a significant association with alcohol consumption, smoking, and dietary intake. In particular, skilled, semi-skilled, unskilled workers, technicians, clerks, and service or sales workers were more likely to smoke and drink alcohol compared to those who were unemployed. Nevertheless, work characteristics did not affect the likelihood of inappropriate fruit and vegetable intake, insufficient physical activity, and sedentary behavior. The study found a link between work characteristics and NCDs in the working-age population, identifying specific work characteristics associated with behavioral risk factors such as alcohol consumption, smoking, and high dietary risk. The findings suggest a need for NCD prevention strategies targeting diverse workplaces such as smoking regulations, healthy canteens, and promoting opportunities for physical activity, with a regulatory focus on labor laws and policy incentives. Finally, disaggregated occupational data should be emphasis for effective monitoring and evaluation in NCD policy.
Improving HPV vaccine acceptance through peer-to-peer education among adolescent girls in the urban poor settings of Kisenyi, Kampala, Uganda
Authors: Tuhebwe Doreen , Adyedo Christine , Ahumuza Emmanuel , Ssendagire Steven , Wanyenze Rhoda K.
Published: December 2024

In Uganda, cervical cancer due to Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is the most prevalent cancer among women. In 2015, the HPV vaccine was introduced into Uganda’s EPI program, targeting young girls in-and out-of-school. However, HPV vaccine uptake remains low at 44% for the second dose with disparities in vulnerable populations in urban poor settings. We piloted a peer-to-peer education approach in the urban slums of Kisenyi in Kampala, Uganda to address vaccine hesitancy among adolescent girls aged 9-13years. In 2019/2020, a total of 18 girls between the ages of 10–15 years old, who had previously received two doses of the HPV vaccine were trained as Adolescent Peer Educators (APEs), co-created an HPV vaccine health education message, and conveyed it to unvaccinated peers, with the intention of increasing vaccine uptake. The APEs attended weekly mentorship meetings with the intervention team to document their experiences and be supported to link interested peers to the nearest public health facility for vaccination. Over a 12-week period, the APEs identified 192 unvaccinated peers aged 10-13years, 177/192 were provided with the health education messages, 145/177 expressed willingness to receive the first dose of the vaccine and 88/145 (60.7%) received it. Through repeat socialization, positive influence and friendship, the APEs were able to communicate the benefits of the HPV vaccine, manage fears like anticipation of injection pain and connect interested peers to the community health workers (CHWs) for health facility linkage. A common barrier experienced by APES was the fact that caretakers made the final decision even after their daughters expressed interest requiring CHW intervention with caretakers. Peer-to-peer education and linkage to vaccination is a feasible approach that could increase uptake of HPV vaccine among adolescents. We recommend larger scale effectiveness studies to refine the model and include a comparison group to identify the optimal intervention components.
The bionomics of Anopheles arabiensis and Anopheles funestus inside local houses and their implications for vector control strategies in areas with high coverage of insecticide-treated nets in South-eastern Tanzania
Authors: Limwagu Alex J. , Msugupakulya Betwel J. , Ngowo Halfan S. , Mwalugelo Yohana A. , Kilalangongono Masoud S. , Samli Faraji A. , Abbasi Said K. , Okumu Fredros O. , Ngasala Billy E. , Lyimo Issa N.
Published: December 2024

Background

Residual malaria transmissions in Africa may be associated with improved coverage of insecticide-treated nets, house features, and livestock husbandry. These human-land use activities may drive the ecology and behaviour of malaria vectors which sustain residual malaria transmission. This study was conducted to assess changes in the ecology and behaviour of Anopheles funestus and Anopheles arabiensis in villages with high coverage of insecticide-treated nets to guide the selection of complementary vector control strategies against residual malaria transmission.

Methods

Mosquitoes were collected using a CDC-light trap, miniaturized double net trap, and Prokopack aspirator from 222 households in three villages (Ebuyu, Chirombora, and Mzelezi) within Kilombero Valley. Anopheles mosquitoes were morphologically identified to their physiological status and species-complex levels. A sub-sample of Anopheles mosquitoes was exposed to laboratory analyses of sibling species, host preference, and sporozoite rates. Additionally, the local houses were geo-referenced using Global Positioning Systems (GPS) devise, and house features were recorded and associated with vector abundance.

Results

The population of An. funestus s.s was abundant with high Plasmodium sporozoite rates inside houses compared to An. arabiensis. However, these vector species equally blood-fed on humans inside houses, but they also flexibly mixed human and animal blood meal. Fewer An. funestus were caught in houses with metal- than grass roofs and houses with and without animals. Contrastingly, fewer An. arabiensis were caught from houses with screened eaves compared to houses with open eaves.

Conclusions

This study confirms that An. funestus dominates residual malaria transmission over An. arabiensis. These vector species exhibit anthropophily and opportunistic blood-feeding behaviour in areas with high coverage of insecticide-treated nets, but they numerically respond differently to local house improvements. These results imply that integrating mosquito-proof houses, improved insecticide-treated nets, and livestock-based interventions could effectively reduce and eventually eliminate residual malaria transmission.
Integrating physiotherapy into primary care models: A scoping review protocol
Authors: Saddy Nathaniel , Aboosally Aamir , Aslanidis Jordan , Beilin Anthony , da Silva Schezar Jessica , Miller Jordan , Tawiah Andrews K.
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Physiotherapists (PTs) working in primary care settings within an interprofessional team can lead to favourable health outcomes and decreased burden on the healthcare system. Although PT models of care are important to primary care delivery, there is a lack of knowledge and evidence on the characteristics of these models of care, the differences and similarities between the models, and the barriers and facilitators to implementing these models. This scoping review protocol aims to fill this knowledge gap by synthesizing the evidence and characteristics of models of care that integrate physiotherapists within primary care teams, mapping the similarities and differences, and describing barriers and facilitators to implementing models of care that integrate physiotherapists within primary care teams.

Methods

The scoping review is based on the Joanne Briggs Institute (JBI) framework. It is reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRIMSA-ScR). A comprehensive search strategy will be used to find relevant papers in six databases: OVID MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science, and Scopus. Grey literature will be searched through OpenGrey, Theses Global, ProQuest Dissertation, and Google Scholar. Quantitative and qualitative study designs will be included, with two reviewers independently selecting each article on Covidence. Data will be extracted using a pre-piloted data extraction sheet and synthesized narratively to identify themes and patterns.

Discussion

This scoping review will synthesize the evidence on models of care that integrate physiotherapists within primary care teams. It will provide evidence to inform the implementation of these models of care and identify research gaps that need to be addressed. The protocol is registered on Open Science Framework registries at https://osf.io/kh83r/.
Machine learning and game theory for cyber governance: Enhancing public opinion and regional sustainable development
Authors: Song Podong , Jin Wiseong , Chen Shaowei , Hu Xufang , Min Kwisik , Li Shengchao , Li Senmong
Published: December 2024

Cyberspace is emerging as a critical living environment, significantly influencing sustainable human development. Internet public opinion is a crucial aspect of cyberspace governance, serving as the most important form of expressing popular will. However, perceiving public opinion can be challenging due to its complex and elusive nature. In this paper, we propose a novel framework for perceiving popular will, managing public opinion, and influencing people’s behavior, based on machine learning and game theory approaches. Our framework leverages deep learning techniques to analyze public opinion, active learning methods to reduce costs, and game theory to make optimal management decisions. We verify the effectiveness of our framework using empirical data collected from Chinese provinces Y and G, and provide theoretical support by analyzing the interrelationship between public opinion, online public opinion, and people’s behavior. Our framework can be applied inexpensively to studies in other regions, thereby offering valuable insights into cyberspace governance and public opinion management.
The inspired and the discouraged: School board service and differential effects on political ambition
Authors: Bergstrand Kelly , Shelton Beth Anne , Deen Rebecca E.
Published: December 2024

Given the national attention on Texas and its school board meetings, we ask—what are the effects of a contentious political atmosphere on desires to run for higher office? Further, how does this experience interact with individual-level traits to affect ambition? To investigate, we distributed a survey to elected school board trustees in Texas and analyzed quantitative and qualitative responses from 380 respondents. We find divergent paths, with some inspired and others deterred from future politics. Specifically, city residents were more affected, positively or negatively, than rural residents. Political newcomers, those feeling qualified, and Democrats were more likely to express higher ambition. In qualitative comments, the inspired wanted to make a difference, serve as a quality candidate, and represent others; the discouraged were upset by partisan politics, personal attacks, and constituents’ behaviors. Overall, these findings suggest that the larger political climate matters in shaping which individuals embrace or exit politics.
A study of the changing characteristics and influencing factors of holiday visitor vitality in Urban parks: The case of Fuzhou, China
Authors: Cui Tingting , Ye Yongxiang , Zhuang Yingxin , Lin Qinlan , Yan Minlong , Zhang Litian , Zhu Liying
Published: December 2024

The vitality of urban parks reflects the intensity of green space utilization, gauging visitors’ overall perception of the parks, facilitating integrated park management, and ensuring the parks’ sustainable development. But, the park’s spatial vitality characteristics change over time, and the factors influencing the differences in vitality have not been conclusively established. Therefore, This study employs Baidu heat map data to examine the spatial and temporal distribution patterns of park visitor vitality on holidays and weekdays in urban parks located in the core urban region of Fuzhou City. Meanwhile, this will be achieved by utilizing a geo-detector and MGWR model to examine the factors influencing visitor vitality and analyze the spatial variations in the impact coefficients. The conclusions are as follows: (1)Park vitality varied dramatically between different periods, with park vitality being higher on holidays than on weekdays. The peaks of vitality are all concentrated at 10:00 and 16:00. The park’s vitality on holidays had a pattern of many peaks, with a wave-like fluctuation. On weekdays, there was a notable M-shaped feature. (2)The spatial distribution of vitality has a "bimodal" pattern with two distinct cores and numerous fragmented fragments. There are notable variations in the spatial liveliness of different parks, characterized by a distinct "long-tail effect." In other words, there are just a few parks with high vitality, while many parks have low vitality. (3)The peripheral location features (G2) and the characteristics of transportation infrastructure (G3)are the main factors affecting park vitality; X11 amenities have the highest coefficient of impact on park vitality (0.501 on weekdays and 0.491 on holidays). The factors within the Park attributes (G1) and the park’s social media level (G4) showed a two-way interaction strength increase. (4)The coefficients of influence of impact factors on the space heterogeneity of vacation park vitality exhibit significant variation. The positive indicators have a spatial distribution that decreases from the northwest to the southeast, with the old city district having higher coefficients than the new city district. The negative indicators display the reverse pattern. This study offers scientific methodologies and recommendations for improving and designing urban park landscapes.
The influence of rotational error and axial shift of toric intraocular lenses on residual astigmatism
Authors: Gargallo Diana , Remón Laura , Ares Jorge , Castro-Alonso Francisco J.
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Accurate alignment of Toric Intraocular Lens (T-IOLs) in cataract surgery is crucial for good visual outcomes. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of rotation, axial shift and their combined effects on the refractive error and image quality of a wide range of T-IOL powers (from +1.50 D to +6.00 D cylinder) and two pupil diameters (3.34 and 4.44 mm).

Methods

Numerical ray tracing was utilized to quantify the residual error. Simulated retinal images and Visual Strehl (VS) ratios were calculated to evaluate image quality.

Results

First, T-IOL rotation showed better agreement with Holladay’s formula than 3.33% rule. Second, axial displacement resulted in acceptable residual cylinder (<0.50 D) across all examined cylinder powers. Third, concerning the combined effects, the influence of axial shift on residual cylinder becomes negligible when rotation errors exceed 2.5°. Fourth, a pupil-dependent nonlinear relationship was noted for image quality caused by both types of misalignment factors.

Conclusions

The 3.33% rule was confirmed as a reasonable approximation for the residual astigmatism caused by rotation of T-IOLs. The influence of axial shift on residual astigmatism becomes insignificant when there is also rotation. Image quality studies confirm that 30° of rotation are enough invalidate the compensation benefits of a T-IOLs in comparison with a Spherical Intraocular lens.
The clinical characteristics and SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in children of acute hepatitis with unknown aetiology: A meta‐analysis and systematic review
Authors: Shan Jiayi , Huang Baoyi , Xin Yijun , Li Ran , Zhang Xiaoling , Xu Hua
Published: December 2024

The World Health Organization has issued a global alert on Acute Severe Hepatitis of Unknown Aetiology (AS-HEP-UA) since 23 April 2022,and there was still uncertainty regarding the association of AS-HEP-UA with SARS-CoV-2 as well as adenovirus. This study aimed to summarize the infection of SARS-CoV-2 and co-infections with adenovirus, as well as clinical features and outcomes in patients with AS-HEP-UA. PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library were searched from 1 October 2021 to 8 December 2022 for studies about patients with AS-HEP-UA. This study was registered in the PROSPERO database (CRD42023385056). We has included 14 eligible articles. The main clinical features of AS-HEP-UA were jaundice (65%) and vomiting (59%), while other clinical features included diarrhea (45%), abdominal pain (37%), and fever (31%), roughly 10% of the children required liver transplantation. The overall positivity rate for SARS-CoV-2 was 21.6% (95% CI: 0.126–0.319), with 25.5% (95% CI: 0.161–0.358) for previous infections. The positivity rate for adenovirus infection was 58.6% (95% CI:0.429–0.736) while co-infection with SARS-CoV-2 was 17.5% (95% CI: 0.049–0.342). Moreover, we found that the positive rate of SARS-CoV-2 for this hepatitis outbreak was correlated with region by subgroup analysis. In conclusion, the positive rate of adenovirus was higher than SARS-CoV-2, and the relationship between AS-Hep-UA and COVID-19 is not significant. However, it cannot be excluded that the COVID-19 epidemic is an indirect causative agent of AS-Hep-UA, which requires a larger cohort of AS-Hep-UA patients to uncover additional findings.
Evaluation of design parameters on the outcome of intrastromal ring surgery using biomechanical simulations
Authors: Bahramizadeh-Sajadi Shima , Katoozian Hamid Reza , Ariza-Gracia Miguel Angel , Gholami Morteza , Baradaran-Rafii Alireza , Büchler Philippe
Published: December 2024

Background

The cornea plays a role in the refractive power of the eye, and when its natural curvature and thickness are compromised by diseases such as keratoconus or high myopia, this results in loss of visual acuity. Intracorneal rings (ICRs) were developed as a treatment option to restore the natural corneal curvature by implanting rings into tunnels cut within the corneal stroma. However, selecting and placing the appropriate ring can be difficult, and predicting refractive outcomes is challenging.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to better understand the design parameters of the rings that determine postoperative refractive and mechanical outcomes.

Methods

We developed an automated finite element simulation pipeline for ICR implantation and tested 300 variations of 20 ICRs.

Results

The outcome of ICR was dominated by the vertical size of the ring; 84% of the change in corneal curvature can be attributed to the vertical size of the ring, while only 13% were attributed to the detailed cross-sectional shape of the ring. However, the cross-sectional shape of the ring is limited to the change in axial length and contact pressure between the ring and the cornea. The horizontal dimension of the ring plays only a minor role in the postoperative outcome.

Conclusion

These results support Keraring’s approach to ring scaling, in which only the vertical dimension of the ring is changed, while the horizontal dimension remains constant. Numerical models help to understand ICR outcomes, design implants, and personalize empirical nomograms to achieve more successful postoperative outcomes.
Risk classification for the transmission of vaccine-preventable diseases in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil: 2018 to 2022
Authors: Rodrigues da Silva Thales Philipe , Moreira Carolina Machado , Souza Janaina Fonseca Almeida , Fernandes Eder Gatti , Gurmão Josianne Dias , de Melo Araújo Ana Catarina , Vimieiro Aline Mendes , Matozinhos Fernanda Penido
Published: December 2024

The National Immunization Program (PNI) is one of Brazil’s most significant public health interventions. However, recent years have witnessed a progressive decline in vaccination coverage despite the success of the PNI and the expansion of Primary Health Care (PHC), the main point of entry for the population into health services. To address this challenge, broader strategies are needed, such as identifying areas at high risk for the transmission of vaccine-preventable diseases. This study aimed to analyze the risk classification for the transmission of vaccine-preventable diseases in the 853 municipalities of Minas Gerais, Brazil, from 2018 to 2022. This epidemiological time-series study uses secondary data on vaccination coverage, dropout rates, and homogeneity of the recommended immunobiologicals for children under 2 years of age from 2018 to 2022 in Minas Gerais. We obtained the data from the National Immunization Program Information System (SIPNI). The study highlighted a decline in vaccination coverage from 2018 to 2021, with a significant drop following the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. According to the risk classification for the transmission of vaccine-preventable diseases, the proportion of municipalities classified as high and very high risk remained stable from 2018 to 2019, increased from 2019 to 2020 and from 2020 to 2021, and decreased from 2021 to 2022. We observed the public health impact not only regarding COVID-19 but also on most vaccine-preventable diseases. Given the scenario of declining vaccination coverage and the risk of a resurgence of vaccine-preventable diseases exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, health services must implement public health strategies to mitigate this situation. Risk classification proved to be an effective methodology for prioritizing locations for health interventions. It enabled the analysis of the vaccination scenario in the state following the implementation of a participatory action research project conducted jointly by academia and health services.
Managing linguistic obstacles in multidisciplinary, multinational, and multilingual research projects
Authors: Specht Alison , Stall Shelley , Machicao Jeaneth , Catry Thibault , Chaumont Marc , David Romain , Devillers Rodolphe , Edmunds Rorie , Jarry Robin , Mabile Laurence , Miyairi Nobuko , O’Brien Margaret , Correa Pedro Pizzigatti , Santos Solange , Subsol Gérard , Wyborn Lesley
Published: December 2024

Environmental challenges are rarely confined to national, disciplinary, or linguistic domains. Convergent solutions require international collaboration and equitable access to new technologies and practices. The ability of international, multidisciplinary and multilingual research teams to work effectively can be challenging. A major impediment to innovation in diverse teams often stems from different understandings of the terminology used. These can vary greatly according to the cultural and disciplinary backgrounds of the team members. In this paper we take an empirical approach to examine sources of terminological confusion and their effect in a technically innovative, multidisciplinary, multinational, and multilingual research project, adhering to Open Science principles. We use guided reflection of participant experience in two contrasting teams—one applying Deep Learning (Artificial Intelligence) techniques, the other developing guidance for Open Science practices—to identify and classify the terminological obstacles encountered and reflect on their impact. Several types of terminological incongruities were identified, including fuzziness in language, disciplinary differences and multiple terms for a single meaning. A novel or technical term did not always exist in all domains, or if known, was not fully understood or adopted. Practical matters of international data collection and comparison included an unanticipated need to incorporate different types of data labels from country to country, authority to authority. Sometimes these incongruities could be solved quickly, sometimes they stopped the workflow. Active collaboration and mutual trust across the team enhanced workflows, as incompatibilities were resolved more speedily than otherwise. Based on the research experience described in this paper, we make six recommendations accompanied by suggestions for their implementation to improve the success of similar multinational, multilingual and multidisciplinary projects. These recommendations are conceptual drawing on a singular experience and remain to be sources for discussion and testing by others embarking on their research journey.
Experimental formation of carbonates from perchlorate and sulphate brines: Implications for Jezero crater, Mars
Authors: Escamilla-Roa Elizabeth , Martin-Torres Javier , Zorzano María-Paz
Published: December 2024

Extensive carbonate precipitation has occurred on Mars. To gain insight into the carbonation mechanisms and formation processes under ancient Martian aqueous conditions, we examine the precipitation of carbonates resulting from atmospheric carbon fixation, focusing on interactions between various brines and silicate and perchlorate solutions in alkaline environments. The micro-scale morphology and composition of the resulting precipitates are analysed using ESEM micrographs, EDX chemical compositional analysis, X-ray diffraction, and micro-Raman spectroscopy. Our findings indicate a significant atmospheric carbonation process involving chlorate and sulphate brines reacting with alkaline perchlorate solutions, leading to the precipitation of calcium carbonate polymorphs, including vaterite, aragonite, and calcite, as well as other carbonates like siderite (iron carbonate) and zaratite (nickel carbonate). Some precipitates exhibit biomorphic structures (such as globular spherical aggregates, fine branched tubes, and flower-like morphologies) that should not be mistaken for fossils. These experiments demonstrate that various precipitates can form simultaneously in a single reaction vessel while being exposed to different micro-scale pH conditions. We propose that systematic laboratory studies of such precipitate reactions should be conducted in preparation for the analysis of the Mars Sample Return collection on Earth, aiding in the interpretation of carbonate presence in natural brine-rock carbonation processes under Martian conditions while also helping to distinguish potential biosignatures from purely geochemical processes.
Fungi from Anopheles darlingi Root, 1926, larval breeding sites in the Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Oliveira Marta Rodrigues de , Souza Thiago Fernandes , Arcos Adriano Nobre , Katak Ricardo de Melo , Silva Sarah Raquel Silveira da , Cruz Jeferson Chagas da , Silva Gilvan Ferreira da , Marinotti Osvaldo , Terenius Olle , Souza Afonso Duarte Leão de , Souza Antonia Queiroz Lima de
Published: December 2024

The fungi present in the breeding waters of mosquitoes have been scarcely investigated. This work explored the diversity of cultivable fungi present in the breeding sites of the South American malaria vector mosquito Anopheles darlingi. Water samples were collected from four sites located in the municipalities of Coari and São Gabriel da Cachoeira and four different culture media were used for the isolation of fungi. Two-hundred-and-six fungal strains were isolated and morphologically similar fungi were grouped into 30 morphotypes. Their taxonomic identities were assigned by macro and microscopic observations and sequencing of rDNA internal transcribed spacers (ITS1-5.8S-ITS2). Representatives of 26 morphotypes were identified at the genus level, one only at the family level, and three were not identified. The identified morphotypes belong to the phyla, Ascomycota (80.6%), Basidiomycota (11.7%), and Mucoromycota (2.4%), distributed in five classes, ten orders, 25 families, and 26 genera. This study fills a considerable knowledge gap about the fungi present in the breeding sites of An. darlingi mosquitoes.
Biological interaction of bioactive polymeric membranes in induced bone defects in rabbit tibias
Authors: da Cunha Olicies , Ferrigno Cássio Ricardo Auada , da Silveira Solimar Dutra , Pedron Bruno Gregnanin , Komorizono Danielle Tiemi , Prado Flávia Cristina Rosin , Cabrera Walter Israel Rojas , Corrêa Luciana
Published: December 2024

The study aimed to evaluate bone repair using three osteoinductive polymers in bone defects created in rabbit tibias. Forty-eight adult rabbits were assessed at various time points: three, seven, fourteen, and thirty days. The groups included a control group (without biomaterial), M1 (Poly L Lactide co Polycaprolactone/Polyethylene Glycol), M2 (Poly L Lactide co Polycaprolactone/Polyethylene Glycol/β-Tricalcium Phosphate), and M3 (Poly L Lactide co Polycaprolactone/Polyethylene Glycol/nano hydroxyapatite). Histomorphometric analysis was conducted to evaluate new bone formation within and around the bone defect. At 14 (p<0.05) and 30 days (p<0.05), the callus area in the membrane groups, particularly in M3, was also significantly larger than in the control group, indicating the osteoinductive potential of these biomaterials. The callus consisted of both bone and cartilaginous matrix, suggesting a robust activation of endochondral ossification. The number of osteoclast was higher in the membrane groups, especially at 14 days in the M3 group, indicating increased bone remodeling activity. The membranes were not fully absorbed by 30 days, creating a space between the defect and the periosteum. In conclusion, all three membranes showed significant chondro and osteoinductive potential, with the membrane containing nano-hydroxyapatite demonstrating the most pronounced potential.
Navigating uncertainty: The impact of environmental instability on enterprise digital transformation
Authors: Luo Feifei , Tang Chia-Hsien
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the impact of environmental uncertainty on the digital transformation of Chinese A-share listed companies from 2013 to 2022. Our empirical analysis reveals that environmental uncertainty negatively affects digital transformation by inducing managerial myopia, hindering research and development (R&D) investment, and exacerbating financial constraints. However, these negative effects can be mitigated by increasing management shareholding, which aligns managers’ interests with long-term goals, providing digital transformation subsidies to lower financial barriers, and fostering a favorable legal environment to protect digital investments and innovation. These findings offer valuable insights for understanding how environmental uncertainty influences digital transformation strategies and provide practical implications for enterprises and policymakers in dynamic business environments.
Spanish versión of The App Behavior Change Scale (ABACUS-Es): Adaptation and validation study
Authors: Martin-Payo Ruben , González-Nuevo-Vázquez Covadonga , Álvarez-Gómez Estela , Surendran Shelini , Cachero-Rodríguez Judit , Fernandez-Alvarez María del Mar
Published: December 2024

Background

Health applications have grown exponentially in the last decade and are well accepted by users and health services. It is essential that digital tools meet the needs of the target users and are reliable, hence the importance of evaluating them. The aim of this study was to adapt The App Behavior Change Scale (ABACUS) into the Spanish language and to assess their metric properties.

Methods

This was an study undertaken in two phases: (1) translation and cultural adaptation process; (2) psychometric evaluation. 65 physical activity apps were included in the study (9 running Apple, 50 running Android and 6 running both). Cross-cultural adaptation, translation, and metric evaluation was made. The internal consistency and test-retest reliability of the Spanish version of the ABACUS was evaluated using physical activity apps. Two reviewers independently rated the apps using the translated scale. The apps were then rated again 2 weeks later by the same reviewers to measure test-retest reliability.

Results

No major differences were observed between both versions of ABACUS (original and Spanish). Discrimination indices (item-scale correlation) obtained appropriate results for both raters. ABACUS-Es presented an excellent interrater reliability (0.82, 95% CI 0.80–0.84) and excellent internal consistency (Cronbach alpha = 0.82).

Conclusions

The Spanish version of ABACUS, ABACUS-Es, is an instrument with adequate metric properties to measure the potential behavior change of apps from health professionals and app developers. ABACUS will help guide future research efforts in the development and evaluation of apps to promote health behaviors, and provides guidance for app developers to include adequate behavior change techniques in apps in Spanish to be used to promote health behaviors.
Barriers and facilitators of fetal heart monitoring with a mobile cardiotocograph (iCTG) device in underserved settings: An exploratory qualitative study from Tanzania
Authors: Mwakawanga Dorkasi L. , Chen Sanmei , Ogata Yhuko , Suzuki Minami , Kobayashi Yuryon , Toda Miyuki , Hirose Naoki , Shimpuku Yoko
Published: December 2024

Background

Fetal monitoring in low-resource settings is often inadequate. A mobile cardiotocograph fetal monitoring device is a digital innovation that could ensure the safety of pregnant women at high risk and their fetuses through early detection and management of fetal distress. Research is scarce on factors that affect the implementation of fetal heart monitoring using the mobile cardiotocograph device in low-resource settings, including Tanzania. This study aimed to explore the barriers and facilitators of fetal monitoring with a mobile cardiotocograph device in Tanzania.

Methods

We adopted an exploratory qualitative study to analyze the barriers and facilitators of fetal monitoring using the mobile cardiotocograph device in primary healthcare facilities. Seventeen face-to-face in-depth interviews with healthcare providers and seven focus group discussions with women were conducted. Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis guided the data analysis. It included the following steps: familiarizing with data, generating initial codes, searching for themes, reviewing themes, defining and naming themes, and producing the report.

Results

Three themes emerged as barriers: individual-related ones, including inadequate knowledge and skills to use mobile cardiotocograph devices, institutional barriers attributed to limited referral infrastructures and staff shortage, and community-related barriers, such as myths and misconceptions that limit antenatal care checkups. Individual factors, including motives and desires of healthcare providers and community trust in the healthcare system, support systems related to training and mentorship opportunities for healthcare providers, and the availability of community-based health programs in the respective areas, were revealed as facilitators of mobile cardiotocograph devices.

Conclusion

Implementing iCTG in primary healthcare facilities is affected by several factors, from individual to institutional level. Providing user-friendly procedure manuals and training on the functions of the iCTG device and cardiotocograph interpretations could serve as potential solutions to improve the competence and confidence of healthcare providers. Moreover, the availability of supportive infrastructure, adequate human resources for health, and community sensitization were good points to start with when addressing institutional and community barriers. Nevertheless, multistakeholder engagement during the design and implementation of fetal monitoring using a mobile cardiotocograph device is warranted.
HSP105 inhibition downregulates store-operated calcium entry and promotes acute UVB-induced tight junction disruption
Authors: Zhou Kaiyi , Luo Siyu , Wang Qinxiao , Ye Qian , Fang Sheng
Published: December 2024

Background

Tight junction abnormalities are a common feature of inflammatory skin diseases such as psoriasis and atopic dermatitis and contribute to systemic immune responses. Evidence provided to date suggests that Heat shock protein 105 kDa (HSP105) exhibits significant protective effects in response to destructive external stimuli. However, its role in UV-induced skin tight junction remains to be fully understood.

Objective

To investigate the role and underlying mechanisms of HSP105 in acute UVB-induced tight junction damage.

Methods

By utilizing bioinformatics analysis, together with an in vitro UVB-induced tight junction injury model in HaCaT cells, we investigated the expression and localization of HSP105 and the tight junction proteins CLDN1, CLDN4, and OCLN. The role of HSP105 was further explored through shRNA-mediated silencing and lentiviral overexpression in HaCaT cells. Potential pathways by which HSP105 regulates tight junction were analyzed using the GSEA algorithm and validated through in vitro experiments.

Results

Acute UVB irradiation mainly disrupted the distribution of CLDN1, CLDN4, and OCLN in HaCaT cells, while gene expression remained largely unaffected. Acute UVB irradiation also caused a reduction in HSP105 protein levels in HaCaT cells. Inhibition of HSP105 expression worsened tight junction fragmentation. GSEA analysis showed that Store-operated calcium entry (SOCE) was significantly correlated with HSP105 expression. Silencing HSP105 downregulated STIM1 transcription and inhibited SOCE, leading to further fragmentation of tight junction proteins. Overexpression of HSP105 partially mitigated the damage to tight junction integrity caused by UVB and SOCE inhibition.

Conclusion

HSP105 protects against acute UVB-induced tight junction damage through the regulation of SOCE. Our findings offer new insights into the treatment of skin barrier injury.
Receptor binding and structural basis of raccoon dog ACE2 binding to SARS-CoV-2 prototype and its variants
Authors: Luo Chunliang , Li Linjie , Gu Yuhang , Zhang Hangchuan , Xu Zepeng , Sun Junqing , Shi Kaiyuan , Ma Sufang , Tian Wen-Xia , Liu Kefang , Gao George F.
Published: December 2024

Raccoon dog was proposed as a potential host of SARS-CoV-2, but no evidence support such a notion. In our study, we investigated the binding affinities of raccoon dog ACE2 (rdACE2) to the spike (S) protein receptor binding domain (RBD) of SARS-CoV-2 prototype (PT) and its variants. It revealed that the binding affinities of RBD from SARS-CoV-2 variants were generally lower than that of the PT RBD. Through structural and functional analyses, we found amino acids H34 and M82 play pivotal roles in maintaining the binding affinity of ACE2 to different SARS-CoV-2 sub-variants. These results suggest that raccoon dogs exhibit lower susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 compared to those animal species with a high prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 transmission.
Estudos Positivistas em Literacia Financeira: Uma Análise das Hipóteses à Luz de Popper
Authors: Degliesposti Eduardo Henrique Becker
Published: December 2024

Este artigo tem como objetivo analisar a literatura existente sobre literacia financeira à luz da análise Popperiana sobre suas hipóteses. A amostra final contou com 18 artigos que abordam o tema, com foco na identificação de hipóteses passíveis de refutação. Os resultados indicaram que pouco mais da metade dos artigos analisados apresentaram hipóteses refutáveis, o que corrobora o fato de haver contradições dentro do paradigma positivista. Esses resultados contribuem para a compreensão do uso de hipóteses refutáveis em estudos quantitativos e demonstram a importância de adotar uma abordagem crítica e científica no desenvolvimento de pesquisas nessa área.
GUERRA DOS LUGARES .COM: A LOCALIZAÇÃO ESTRATÉGICA DE EXTREMA (MG) PARA A LOGÍSTICA DO COMÉRCIO ELETRÔNICO NO TERRITÓRIO BRASILEIRO
Authors: Venceslau Igor , Lima Fernanda Laize Silva de
Published: December 2024

A realização do comércio eletrônico supõe um conjunto de infraestruturas e a materialidade do território, especialmente nas etapas cruciais de distribuição e entrega. Para aliar rapidez no envio de mercadorias com aumento da lucratividade, ampliam-se o imperativo da fluidez territorial e a busca pela melhor localização estratégica dos novos investimentos por parte das empresas. O objetivo deste artigo é analisar o processo de instalação de centros de distribuição de mercadorias do comércio eletrônico no município de Extrema (MG), apontando para novas formas de especialização dos lugares no meio técnico-científico-informacional. A pesquisa foi conduzida por revisão bibliográfica, coleta de dados e mapeamento de centros de distribuição e infraestruturas do território, além de trabalho de campo. Os resultados apresentaram uma atualização da guerra dos lugares na economia digital, atribuindo a Extrema (MG) a primazia na logística de e-commerce no Brasil, num processo de expansão da Macrometrópole Paulista. Ao mesmo tempo, intensificam-se os problemas e contradições do lugar.
Волновые числа гармонических плоских волн трансляционных и спинорных перемещений в полуизотропной термоупругой среде
Authors: Murashkin Eugenii Valeryevich , Radayev Yuri Nikolaevich
Published: December 2024

Рассматриваются вопросы распространения плоских гармонических связанных волн температурного инкремента, трансляционных и спинорных перемещений в полуизотропном термоупругом теле.
Получены и проанализированы характеристические уравнения для волновых чисел плоских гармонических связанных термоупругих продольных (бикубическое уравнение) и поперечных волн перемещений (уравнение 8-й степени, естественным образом распадающееся на два алгебраических уравнения 4-й степени). Для продольной волны комплексные амплитуды температурного инкремента, трансляционных и спинорных перемещений оказываются также связанными, в отличие от поперечной волны. С помощью системы символьных вычислений Wolfram Mathematica 13 для волновых чисел поперечных волн получены алгебраические формы, содержащие многозначные комплексные квадратные и кубические радикалы.
Микроструктурная модель процессов двойникования и раздвойникования мартенситной фазы в сплавах с памятью формы
Authors: Rogovoi Anatolii Alekseevich
Published: December 2024

В статье на примере сплава с памятью формы Cu-Al-Ni обоснован подход к описанию на микроструктурном уровне процессов двойникования и раздвойникования мартенситной фазы. Согласованная двойниковая мартенситная структура описывается уравнением совместности Адамара для деформаций, решение которого позволило определить поверхности, вдоль которых происходит сдвиг, направления и величину скольжения в орторомбической кристаллической ячейке, соответствующей рассматриваемому материалу в мартенситном состоянии, приводящих к появлению и исчезновению двойниковой структуры. Показано, что в сплаве с памятью формы одновременно и неразрывно существуют двойники двух видов: деформационный и структурный.
Первый связан с деформацией простого сдвига, возникающей в соответствии с условием совместности Адамара в мартенситной пластине, что приводит к излому этой прямой пластины и возникновению двух элементов, повернутых на определенный угол друг относительно друга, которые и формируют этот двойник. Структурный двойник формируется из двух частей, в каждой из которых орторомбические кристаллические ячейки мартенсита одинаково ориентированы, но одна из осей этих ячеек меняет свое направление на $90^\circ$ при переходе в другую часть двойника.
Формирование деформационного двойника инициирует возникновение в среде деформации простого сдвига, а структурного двойника - структурной деформации. Показано, что определенное положение структурного двойника в деформационном приводит к равенству этих деформаций.