bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Książka. Stan umysłu bibliotekarza
Authors: Betkowska Jolanta
Published: July 2023

The book is inextricably – and from the very beginning – connected with the librarian. Byblos and the librarian constitute a tandem, duo, diad, to name only some of the most suitable designations for this connection. What meaning has the book in the librarian’s life – in his or her professional and extra-professional life? Is the librarian still the librarian after closing the library door? Who is the librarian within the domesticity, among his or her private book collections? The author tries to answer these or other questions and, as exemplum of the librarian, she mentions the figure of Ignacy Borejko from the cycle Jeżycjada of Małgorzata Musierowicz.
„Bliżej książki, bliżej siebie” – czyli o rodzinnym czytaniu na podstawie projektu „Najmłodsi Małopolanie lubią czytanie”
Authors: Kania Beata , Marzec Lidia
Published: July 2023

The article presents cycle of activities connected with the realisation of the project The Youngest Inhabitants of Lesser Poland Like Reading. A campaign promoting assumptions of the project popularising reading among children has been described. The initiative was to make adults aware of values which characterise reading for children from their early age. The undertaken activities were oriented in many directions. Scientific conferences connected with the issues of the project as well as a series of authorial meetings and workshops for children, parents, educators were organised. A multifunctional publication for a broad circle of recipients was issued.
Multi-purchase Behavior: Modeling, Estimation, and Optimization
Authors: Tulabandhula Theja , Sinha Deeksha , Karra Saketh Reddy , Patidar Prasoon
Published: July 2023

Problem definition: We study the problem of modeling purchase of multiple products and using it to display optimized recommendations for online retailers and e-commerce platforms. Rich modeling of users and fast computation of optimal products to display given these models can lead to significantly higher revenues and simultaneously enhance the user experience. Methodology/results: We present a parsimonious multi-purchase family of choice models called the BundleMVL-K family and develop a binary search based iterative strategy that efficiently computes optimized recommendations for this model. We establish the hardness of computing optimal recommendation sets and derive several structural properties of the optimal solution that aid in speeding up computation. This is one of the first attempts at operationalizing multi-purchase class of choice models. We show one of the first quantitative links between modeling multiple purchase behavior and revenue gains. The efficacy of our modeling and optimization techniques compared with competing solutions is shown using several real-world data sets on multiple metrics such as model fitness, expected revenue gains, and run-time reductions. For example, the expected revenue benefit of taking multiple purchases into account is observed to be [Formula: see text] in relative terms for the Ta Feng and UCI shopping data sets compared with the multinomial choice model for instances with ∼1,500 products. Additionally, across six real-world data sets, the test log-likelihood fits of our models are on average 17% better in relative terms. Managerial implications: Our work contributes to the study of multi-purchase decisions, analyzing consumer demand, and the retailers optimization problem. The simplicity of our models and the iterative nature of our optimization technique allows practitioners meet stringent computational constraints while increasing their revenues in practical recommendation applications at scale, especially in e-commerce platforms and other marketplaces.

Supplemental Material: The online appendices are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/msom.2020.0238 .
Inventory Sharing Under Service Competition
Authors: Guo Xiaomeng , Jiang Baojun
Published: July 2023

Problem description: In many markets with demand uncertainties, competing retailers may share inventories for common products that they offer consumers. This paper examines how competitors’ product sharing affects their inventory and service-quality decisions. The existing literature has mainly focused on inventory sharing among independent retailers who do not compete with each other. Our research aims to fill the gap in this literature by investigating the tradeoffs of inventory sharing between retailers who directly compete for customers based on service quality. Methodology/results: We develop a game-theoretical model in which two retailers selling a common product from the same manufacturer compete for customers by offering differentiated services together with the product. Each retailer faces stochastic demand that increases in its service quality and decreases in the competitor’s service quality. When a retailer runs out of stock of the product, it may replenish its inventory directly from the manufacturer and/or request the competitor’s excess inventory if they have an inventory-sharing agreement. We find that inventory sharing may soften or intensify service competition, depending on the transfer price for the shared inventory. Specifically, when retailers agree to share inventory, their service levels decrease in the transfer price if their preseason inventory levels are exogenous, but are nonmonotone in the transfer price if the retailers endogenously choose inventory levels. Moreover, our analysis reveals that the retailers’ equilibrium inventory levels will increase in the transfer price and can be higher or lower than their levels in the case without inventory sharing. We also find that with exogenous inventory, the retailers prefer to share inventory at the highest nonmoot transfer price, whereas with endogenous inventory, the retailers may prefer not to share inventory, even at the optimal transfer price, when the level of competition and the preorder cost are high. Finally, we show that with service competition, inventory sharing cannot achieve full coordination under any transfer price. Managerial implications: When deciding whether to share inventory with competitors, managers should consider not only the benefits of inventory pooling, but also the strategic effect of sharing on the firms’ inventory choices and service levels.

Funding: X. Guo has received research support from the Research Grants Council of Hong Kong [RGC Reference No. 15501820].

Supplemental Material: The online appendix is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/msom.2020.0584 .
Teachers´ Reflective Experience Through Classroom Video Observation
Authors: Sáez-Lantaño Alejandra , Nocetti-de-la-Barra Alejandra
Published: July 2023

During the pandemic, online classes were held around the world, which facilitated access to observe teaching practices. This is a relevant experience, since there are few reflective instances in schools, even though public education policy emphasizes reflective practice in the professional development of teachers. In this regard, the observation of videos shows high reflective potential, helping to problematize and analyze teaching. This research sought to describe the functions and experience of classroom video observation with a reflective approach of teachers from four educational schools in the city of Concepción, Chile. The approach was interpretative, an instrumental case study design, with nine participants, selected by a maximum variation sampling and safeguarding ethical criteria. In-depth interviews were conducted and subjected to content analysis. The results showed three functions of the video observation, one instrumental and two others of reflective approach. In addition, the video observation was recognized as a reflective experience that facilitates the reconsidering of teaching performance, renewing practices, and developing reflective habits; also, facilitating and hindering elements were found in the video observation. It is concluded that the functions and experience of video observation could improve and professionalize teaching, based on the awareness and understanding of practice.
Predictive Model of the ENSO Phenomenon Based on Regression Trees
Authors: Mendoza Uribe Indalecio
Published: July 2023

In this work, the supervised machine learning technique was applied to develop a predictive model of the phase of the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) phenomenon. Regression trees were specifically used by means of the Scikit-Learn library of the Python programming language. Data from the period 1950-2022 were used as training and test. The performance of the predictive model was validated using three continuous type error measurement metrics: Mean Absolute Error, Maximum Error and Root Mean Square Root. The results indicate that with a greater number of training data the model improves its performance, with a tendency to decrease the error in forecasts. Which starts for the year 1953 with errors of 0.77, 1.41 and 0.75 for MAE, ME and RMSE respectively, ending for the year 2022 with errors of 0.28, 0.72 and 0.13 for the same metrics. It is concluded that, based on the results, the developed model is consistent and reliable for ENSO phase forecasts in a 12-month window.
A Game Theoretic Competitive Supply Chain Network Model with Green Investments and Labour
Authors: Pace Debono Kurt , Kontorinaki Maria , Sciortino Monique
Published: July 2023

In light of the recent severe Supply Chain (SC) disruptions that have occurred across multiple industries around the globe, three essential and linked themes have emerged in SC management: the well-being of employees, SC sustainability, and competition between SCs for limited resources. In this paper, we create a game-theoretic SC network model that incorporates together non-cooperative SC competition, employee productivity and engagement, and green investing. Each competing firm within the network seeks to maximise its profit by determining an optimal flow of products and allocation of green investments across the SC according to a predetermined budget. A carbon tax on emissions and consumer sustainability preferences are also included in the model. The model is solved using a Variational Inequality reformulation. The illustrative numerical examples presented in this paper have been inspired by the Maltese dairy industry and demonstrate the applicability of the model to real-world problems. The results highlight the significance of the employee engagement factor in enabling firms to adopt and realise more sustainable SC practices.
A Study on Heuristic Algorithms Combined With LR on a DNN-Based IDS Model to Detect IoT Attacks
Authors: Thuy Tran Thi Thanh , Thuan Luong Duc , Duc Nguyen Hong , Minh Hoang Trong
Published: July 2023

Current security challenges are made more difficult by the complexity and difficulty of spotting cyberattacks due to the Internet of Things explosive growth in connected devices and apps. Therefore, various sophisticated attack detection techniques have been created to address these issues in recent years. Due to their effectiveness and scalability, machine learning-based intrusion detection systems (IDSs) have increased. However, several factors, such as the characteristics of the training dataset and the training model, affect how well these AI-based systems identify attacks. In particular, the heuristic algorithms (GA, PSO, CSO, FA) optimized by the logistic regression (LR) approach employ it to pick critical features of a dataset and deal with data imbalance problems. This study offers an intrusion detection system (IDS) based on a deep neural network and heuristic algorithms combined with LR to boost the accuracy of attack detections. Our proposed model has a high attack detection rate of up to 99% when testing on the IoT-23 dataset.
Book Review: One Hundred Prayers: God's answer to prayer in a COVID ICU
Authors:   Phoenix Pulmonary and Critical Care Research and Education Foundation, Gilbert, AZ USA, Robbins Richard
Published: July 2023

No abstract available. Article truncated after first 150 words. The book is a very moving and spell-binding collection of the encounters between patients and physicians during the worst of the COVID-19 epidemic and Dr. Eckshar’s prayers for each of them. A devout person can read this as a prayer devotional; however, it is much more - an authentic account of what doctors and nurses go through working in the ICU. This book might help encourage people who are searching for faith, especially those who face severe illnesses in themselves or a loved one. It may also encourage doctors, nurses and other healthcare workers who might have been burned out working during the pandemic. Its main message is that faith, compassion, and the scientific method must co-exist. It is also a great review of the history of COVID pandemic from the trenches of patient care in the ICU. For nonmedical people it should provide a clue to how doctors and …
Buenas prácticas en la sociedad. Entrevista a Óscar Sarlo, miembro de la Academia Nacional de Letras de Uruguay
Authors: Delgado Del Aguila Jesús Miguel
Published: July 2023

El objetivo de esta entrevista realizada el 11 de julio de 2021 a Óscar Sarlo, miembro de la Academia Nacional de Letras de Uruguay, consistió en detectar y comentar en qué estado se encuentra la capacidad de los ciudadanos de América Latina con respecto a la introducción del Derecho en distintos ámbitos sociales. El resultado de esa inserción es fructífero al hacer referencia a la producción literaria; sin embargo, también se trata de un ejercicio deleznable, tal como lo sigue desarrollando la televisión nacional e internacional. En ese sentido, este trabajo permitió dilucidar cómo un tipo de audiencia está comprendiendo erróneamente y tergiversando la actividad jurídica. Ese malestar cultural también estaría justificado por el desconocimiento de las verdaderas funciones de las mismas instituciones que se encargan de impartir leyes y normas comunitarias.
Principios y valores para una ética digital
Authors: Balladares Burgos Jorge Antonio
Published: July 2023

La ética digital, como una ética aplicada, brinda respuestas a los desafíos en el uso de las TIC, la navegación en el internet y la interacción en las redes sociales.  El propósito del presente artículo es el indagar los principios y valores que sustenten una ética digital.  A partir de una revisión bibliográfica en torno a los principios de la inteligencia artificial y del pacto digital, se abordan los diferentes valores a partir de su identificación en generaciones digitales.  De esta manera, los principios y valores se constituyen en referentes éticos para una interacción en las redes sociales para una vivencia y convivencia en el internet, y para la búsqueda de nuevos retos y desafíos universales. La interacción de las redes sociales, sus tendencias y sensibilidades, y las formas de convivencia en el mundo digital son objeto de estudio para comprender las generaciones digitales. Además, se busca identificar los principios y valores éticos que caracterizan a estas generaciones más recientes con el surgimiento de nuevas tecnologías, lo que delimita un horizonte de referentes para una ética digital.
Between the number and the word: quantitative methods in business history revisited
Authors: Eloranta Jari , Ojala Jari , Valtonen Heli , Poso Eetu
Published: July 2023

This article extends our earlier analysis (2010) to gauge, first, to what extent quantitative methods have been used in recent business history research and, second, the impact that quantitative methods may have had on the citations of business history articles. We used data from the two premier journals in the field (Business History and Business History Review) of the last 20 years. We found that the quantitative content has not increased in relative terms recently in these journals, yet it has in absolute terms. However, at the same time more sophisticated statistical methods have been used more frequently also in business historical research. Contrary to our earlier results, quantitative methods no longer have an easily discernible impact on citation patterns, yet the explicit use of theories seems to have increased the appeal of such scholarship. The unclear impact on citations may be due, at least in part, to a time lag in interdisciplinary knowledge networks. We also argue that the growing impact of economics and economic history, global and comparative history, and digital big data methods will necessitate more use of quantitative methods in the future, with citation impacts becoming observable only in the coming decades.
Optical micro mechanical accelerometer with double grating: design and simulation
Authors: Zhang Yu , Ma Honghao
Published: July 2023

A double-grating-based optical micro mechanical accelerometer with differential detection structure is reported in order to enhance the optical scale factor. A theoretical model is established based on the multi-slits Fraunhofer diffraction model. According to the calculation and analysis, the normalized optical scale factor is improved from 5.491E6 with the single-side detection structure to 10.98E6 with the differential detection structure. Mechanical sensitivity with 4.04 nm/g and natural frequency with 7756.8 Hz of the optical accelerometer are shown by finite element simulation. The results of simulations show a novel scheme for an optical micro mechanical accelerometer with high resolution, to the best of our knowledge. Furthermore, micro-opto-electro-mechanical system fabrication flow is given in this work, which provides a reference for other kinds of optical sensors.
Tri-comb generation with a dual-ring structure
Authors: Zhu En , Zhu Mingwen , Jiang Tianwei , Li Zhixue , Ding Shangsu , Shang Jianming , Ma Jianxin , Yu Song , Luo Bin
Published: July 2023

By introducing a third measurement comb with different repetition frequencies (Δfrep), the tri-comb spectroscopy technique overcomes the ambiguity problem of the original dual-comb spectroscopy technique and eliminates physical delay stages in multidimensional coherent spectroscopy. Nowadays, tri-comb generation based on three frequency-stabilized comb lasers is overly complicated and costly for many potential applications. Previous research on single-cavity dual-combs inspired research on single-cavity tri-combs. However, the currently reported tri-comb structures cannot achieve independently controllable pulses. This paper shows a dual-ring tri-comb seed-source structure using wavelength-based multiplexing in one of the rings. The wavelength and power of the output pulse are independently controlled by using the dual-ring structure. The Δfrep of wavelength multiplexing-based dual-comb output can be tuned by adjusting the intra-ring polarization controller (PC). In the case of single-wavelength mode-locking, the PC can be adjusted to achieve a wavelength tuning range of nearly 20 nm. The tri-comb source could offer an attractive alternative solution as a low-complexity light source for field-deployable multi-comb metrology applications.
Neural network architectures for optical channel nonlinear compensation in digital subcarrier multiplexing systems
Authors: Bakhshali Ali , Najafi Hossein , Hamgini Behnam Behinaein , Zhang Zhuhong
Published: July 2023

In this work, we propose to use various artificial neural network (ANN) structures for modeling and compensation of intra- and inter-subcarrier fiber nonlinear interference in digital subcarrier multiplexing (DSCM) optical transmission systems. We perform nonlinear channel equalization by employing different ANN cores including convolutional neural networks (CNN) and long short-term memory (LSTM) layers. First, we develop a fiber nonlinearity compensation for DSCM systems based on a fully-connected network across all subcarriers. In subsequent steps, and borrowing from the perturbation analysis of fiber nonlinearity, we gradually upgrade proposed designs towards modular structures with better performance-complexity advantages. Our study shows that putting proper macro structures in design of ANN nonlinear equalizers in DSCM systems can be crucial in development of practical solutions for future generations of coherent optical transceivers.
Strong chiral optical force for small chiral molecules based on electric-dipole interactions, inspired by the asymmetrical hydrozoan Velella velella
Authors: Cameron Robert P. , McArthur Duncan , Yao Alison
Published: July 2023

Drawing inspiration from a remarkable chiral force found in nature, we show that a static electric field combined with an optical lin-perp-lin polarization standing wave can exert a chiral optical force on a small chiral molecule that is several orders of magnitude stronger than other chiral optical forces proposed to date, being based on leading electric-dipole interactions rather than relying on weak magnetic-dipole and electric-quadrupole interactions. Our chiral optical force applies to most small chiral molecules, including isotopically chiral molecules, and does not require a specific energy-level structure. Potential applications range from chiral molecular matter-wave interferometry for precision metrology and tests of fundamental physics to the resolution of enantiomers for use in chemistry and biology.
Accurate mode purity measurement of ring core fibers with large mode numbers from the intensity distribution only
Authors: Shi Zekun , Mao Baiwei , Wang Zhi , Liu Yan-ge
Published: July 2023

Mode purity measurement is crucial for various applications utilizing few-mode fibers and related devices. In this paper, we propose a simple and accurate method for measuring the mode purity of the output optical field in few-mode ring-core fibers (RCFs). Mode purity can be calculated solely from the outgoing intensity distribution with high precision. This method is theoretically capable of measuring the mode purity of RCFs that support orbital angular momentum modes with an infinite number of azimuthal orders and has strong applicability to various RCF types and image qualities simultaneously. We demonstrate our approach numerically and verify it experimentally in a few-mode RCF supporting four (five) mode groups at 1550 (1310) nm. A polarization test method is proposed to verify its accuracy. We believe that this straightforward and cost-effective characterization method for RCFs and RCF-based devices can promote the development of mode-division multiplexing technology and its applications.
Magnetically tunable zero-index metamaterials
Authors: Yang Yucong , Liu Yueyang , Qin Jun , Cai Songgang , Su Jiejun , Zhou Peiheng , Deng Longjiang , Li Yang , Bi Lei
Published: July 2023

Zero-index metamaterials (ZIMs) feature a uniform electromagnetic mode over a large area in arbitrary shapes, enabling many applications including high-transmission supercouplers with arbitrary shapes, direction-independent phase matching for nonlinear optics, and collective emission of many quantum emitters. However, most ZIMs reported to date are passive; active ZIMs that allow for dynamic modulation of their electromagnetic properties have rarely been reported. Here, we design and fabricate a magnetically tunable ZIM consisting of yttrium iron garnet (YIG) pillars sandwiched between two copper clad laminates in the microwave regime. By harnessing the Cotton–Mouton effect of YIG, the metamaterial was successfully toggled between gapless and bandgap states, leading to a “phase transition” between a zero-index phase and a single negative phase of the metamaterial. Using an S-shaped ZIM supercoupler, we experimentally demonstrated a tunable supercoupling state with a low intrinsic loss of 0.95 dB and a high extinction ratio of up to 30.63 dB at 9 GHz. We have also engineered a transition between the supercoupling state and the topological one-way transmission state at 10.6 GHz. Our work enables dynamic modulation of the electromagnetic characteristics of ZIMs, enabling various applications in tunable linear, nonlinear, quantum, and nonreciprocal electromagnetic devices.
Individual longitudinal compliance to neglected tropical disease mass drug administration programmes, a systematic review
Authors: Maddren Rosie , Phillips Anna , Rayment Gomez Santiago , Forbes Kathryn , Collyer Benjamin S. , Kura Klodeta , Anderson Roy
Published: July 2023

Repeated distribution of preventative chemotherapy (PC) by mass drug administration forms the mainstay of transmission control for five of the 20 recognised neglected tropical diseases (NTDs); soil-transmitted helminths, schistosomiasis, lymphatic filariasis, onchocerciasis and trachoma. The efficiency of such programmes is reliant upon participants swallowing the offered treatment consistently at each round. This is measured by compliance, defined as the proportion of eligible participants swallowing treatment. Individually linked longitudinal compliance data is important for assessing the potential impact of MDA-based control programmes, yet this accurate monitoring is rarely implemented in those for NTDs. Longitudinal compliance data reported by control programmes globally for the five (PC)-NTDs since 2016 is examined, focusing on key associations of compliance with age and gender. PubMed and Web of Science was searched in January 2022 for articles written in English and Spanish, and the subsequent extraction adhered to PRISMA guidelines. Study title screening was aided by Rayyan, a machine learning software package. Studies were considered for inclusion if primary compliance data was recorded for more than one time point, in a population larger than 100 participants. All data analysis was conducted in R. A total of 89 studies were identified containing compliance data, 57 were longitudinal studies, of which 25 reported individually linked data reported by varying methods. The association of increasing age with the degree of systematic treatment was commonly reported. The review is limited by the paucity of data published on this topic. The varying and overlapping terminologies used to describe coverage (receiving treatment) and compliance (swallowing treatment) is reviewed. Consequently, it is recommended that WHO considers clearly defining the terms for coverage, compliance, and longitudinal compliance which are currently contradictory across their NTD treatment guidelines. This review is registered with PROSPERO (number:CRD42022301991).
Co-crystallisation and humanisation of an anti-HER2 single-domain antibody as a theranostic tool
Authors: Sawmynaden Kovilen , Wong Nicholas , Davies Sarah , Cowan Richard , Brown Richard , Tang David , Henry Maud , Tickle David , Matthews David , Carr Mark , Bakrania Preeti , Hoi Ting Hong , Hall Gareth
Published: July 2023

Human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2) is a well-recognised biomarker associated with 25% of breast cancers. In most cases, early detection and/or treatment correlates with an increased chance of survival. This study, has identified and characterised a highly specific anti-HER2 single-domain antibody (sdAb), NM-02, as a potential theranostic tool. Complete structural description by X-ray crystallography has revealed a non-overlapping epitope with current anti-HER2 antibodies. To reduce the immunogenicity risk, NM-02 underwent a humanisation process and retained wild type-like binding properties. To further de-risk the progression towards chemistry, manufacturing and control (CMC) we performed full developability profiling revealing favourable thermal and physical biochemical ‘drug-like’ properties. Finally, the application of the lead humanised NM-02 candidate (variant K) for HER2-specific imaging purposes was demonstrated using breast cancer HER2+/BT474 xenograft mice.
A longitudinal investigation of the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on 2SLGBTQ+ youth experiencing homelessness
Authors: Abramovich Alex , Pang Nelson , Kim Kawon Victoria , Stark Rowen K. , Lange Shannon , Chaiton Michael , Logie Carmen H. , Hamilton Hayley A. , Kidd Sean A.
Published: July 2023

Introduction

The objective of this study was to examine the impacts of the coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on various dimensions of wellbeing among 2SLGBTQ+ youth experiencing homelessness over a 12-month period during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

2SLGBTQ+ youth (recruited using a convenience sampling method) participated in three online surveys to assess mental health (depression, anxiety, suicidality), substance and alcohol use, health care access, and violence for 12-months between 2021–2022. Quantitative data analysis included non-parametric one-sample proportion tests, paired t-test and McNemar’s test. Longitudinal data collected across all three timepoints were treated as paired data and compared to baseline data using non-parametric exact multinomial tests, and if significant, followed by pairwise post-hoc exact binomial tests. For the purposes of analysis, participants were grouped according to their baseline survey based on pandemic waves and public health restrictions.

Results

2SLGBTQ+ youth experiencing homelessness (n = 87) reported high rates of mental health challenges, including anxiety and depression, over 12-months during the pandemic. Youth participants reported experiencing poor mental health during the early waves of the pandemic, with improvements to their mental health throughout the pandemic; however, results were not statistically significant. Likewise, participants experienced reduced access to mental health care during the early waves of the pandemic but mental health care access increased for youth throughout the pandemic.

Conclusion

Study results showed high rates of mental health issues among 2SLGBTQ+ youth, but reduced access to mental health care, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Findings highlight the need for 2SLGBTQ+ inclusive and affirming mental health care and services to address social and mental health issues that have been exacerbated by the pandemic.
Optimizing antiretroviral therapy for children living with HIV: Experience from an observational cohort in Lesotho
Authors: Tukei Vincent J. , Herrera Nicole , Masitha Matseliso , Masenyetse Lieketseng , Mokone Majoalane , Mokone Mafusi , Maile Limpho , Gill Michelle M.
Published: July 2023

Introduction

We describe transition of HIV-positive children from efavirenz- or nevirapine-based antiretroviral therapy (ART) to optimal dolutegravir (DTG) or lopinavir/ritonavir (LPV/r) (solid formulation)-based ART in Lesotho.

Methods

We followed a cohort of children less than 15 years of age who were initiated on ART on or after January 1, 2018 from 21 selected health facilities in Lesotho. From March 2020 to May 2022, we collected data retrospectively through chart abstraction and prospectively through caregiver interviews to cover a period of 24 months following treatment initiation. We used a structured questionnaire to collect data on demographics, ART regimen, drug formulations and switches, viral suppression, retention, and drug administration challenges. Data were summarized as frequencies and percentages, using SAS ver.9.4.

Results

Of 310 children enrolled in the study, 169 (54.5%) were female, and median age at ART initiation was 5.9 years (IQR 1.1–11.1). During follow-up, 19 (6.1%) children died, 41 (13.2%) were lost to follow-up and 74 (23.9%) transferred to non-study sites. At baseline, 144 (46.4%) children were receiving efavirenz-based ART regimen, 133 (42.9%) LPV/r, 27 (8.7%) DTG, 5 (1.6%) nevirapine; 1 child had incomplete records. By study end, 143 (46.1%) children were receiving LPV/r-based ART regimen, 109 (35.2%) DTG, and 58 (18.7%) were on efavirenz or nevirapine-based regimen. Of 116 children with viral load results after six months or more on a consistent regimen, viral suppression was seen in 35/53 (66.0%) children on LPV/r, 36/38 (94.7%) children on DTG and 19/24 (79.2%) children on efavirenz.

Conclusion

Following optimal ART introduction in Lesotho, most children in the cohort were transitioned and many attained or maintained viral suppression after transition; however, we recommend more robust viral load monitoring and patient tracking to reduce losses and improve outcomes after ART transition.
‘When you give kindness out, you get it back ten times more’: Ontario adults’ prosocial behaviour during the first 16 months of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Shillington Katie J. , Yates Julia , Vanderloo Leigh M. , Burke Shauna M. , Ng Victor , Tucker Patricia , Irwin Jennifer D.
Published: July 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has provided a collective opportunity to engage in prosocial behaviours, including kindness; however, little is known about the long-term impacts of the pandemic on such behaviours. As a part of a larger study (Health Outcomes for Adults During and Following the COVID-19 Pandemic), the purpose of this mixed methods research was two-fold: (1) to quantitatively explore adults’ prosocial behaviour over time during the first 16 months of the pandemic in Ontario, Canada (April 2020-August 2021); and, (2) to more deeply explore, via focus groups, a sub-sample of Ontario adults’ lived experiences of prosocial behaviour (assessed March 2022). A total of 2,188 participants were included in this study, with the majority of participants identifying as female (89.5%). At three time points, participants completed online questionnaires which included demographics, Prosocialness Scale for Adults, and three global kindness questions. A subset of participants (n = 42) also participated in one of six focus groups exploring their experiences of prosocial behaviour during the pandemic. A series of one-way repeated measures ANOVAs revealed that participants’ self-reported prosocial behaviour increased significantly over time, while participants’ awareness of kindness, engagement in acts of kindness, and view of kindness as crucial significantly decreased. Thematic analysis revealed three main themes: (1) shift in prosocial behaviour during the pandemic; (2) kindness from various perspectives; and, (3) prosocial burnout. This study provides insight into the longer-term effects of the pandemic on adults’ prosocial behaviours and should be leveraged to help understand how individuals respond in times of crises.
Alimenta: A design-led systemic action against homelessness-related food poverty
Authors: Campagnaro Cristian , Passaro Raffaele , Curtabbi Giorgia
Published: July 2023

This article presents a project carried out as a design-led systemic action aimed at tackling food poverty among people experiencing homelessness in Turin, Italy. Building on their experience in this project, the authors discuss the complex and multidimensional nature of homelessness-related food poverty within a mature socio-economic context and argue how design enabled systemic actions to understand and tackle this phenomenon. First, the article describes the birth and development of the ongoing project. It outlines the background scenario within which Alimenta started eight years ago, by presenting the issues and the spotty response to food poverty performed by the civil society and the city administration at that time. Then, it outlines how Alimenta was designed to address the health and social needs related to the scarcity and the qualitative deficiencies of food resources for the people hosted in the city’s public shelters. It highlights the relevance of the multi-stakeholder perspective and of the co-design and co-production approach – promoted by the project team – in allowing the city actors to better deal with food poverty and to counter the several criticalities at stake. Second, the authors describe how by enabling multi-level relationships between local actors, and by coordinating and facilitating actions pursuing different objectives, Alimenta has contributed to a systemic response to the material and immaterial aspects of food poverty. The article thus presents the achievements of the project regarding the well-being of the beneficiaries and the new local food system created. Finally, a focus is given to the knowledge that the project has generated in relation not only to the phenomenon of food poverty and to the possible ways of facing it but also to the possible role of designers in this kind of contexts. Thus, the authors discuss the limits of Alimenta and the potential scalability of the designed interventions from a ‘design for policy’ perspective.
Emotional intelligence and knowledge sharing as key factors in business management – evidence from Slovak SMEs
Authors: Zsigmond Tibor , Mura Ladislav
Published: July 2023

ABSTRACT. Over the last decades, researchers have been increasingly studying the field of emotional intelligence and knowledge management. However, the interaction between these two important factors has not received sufficient attention thus far, therefore this paper aims to assess it. The goal of this article is to assess the impact of emotional intelligence on the willingness of knowledge transfer and examine additional factors (such as gender and generation group). The research sample (N=508) consisted of employees of Slovak SMEs. The study was conducted in June-August of 2022. A two-way variance analysis and a binomial logistic regression were applied. In the case of Hypotheses 1 and 2, Emotional Quotient (EQ) figured as an independent variable, while gender and generation group were independent categorical variables. In the case of Hypotheses 3, 4 and 5, a model was set up using logistic regression, where the EQ, gender and generation group were all independent variables. The results show that gender has a real impact on the level of EQ. The willingness of knowledge transfer is influenced by both the level of EQ and gender. The importance of emotional intelligence in connection to knowledge transfer was examined during the crisis caused by COVID-19 and the Russia-Ukraine war, thus expanding the knowledge related to human resources. Previous research on the topic is quite limited and the present study is unique in considering the issue in the context of SMEs and the CEE countries.
Adoption of corporate governance principles in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic: The case of Slovakia
Authors: Musová Zdenka , Musa Hussam , Rech Frederik , Yan Chen
Published: July 2023

During periods of uncertainty, such as the Covid-19 pandemic, the significance of Corporate Governance (CG) practices is highlighted. The study aims to evaluate the adoption of CG practices in companies listed on the Slovak capital market, with a specific focus on the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. The data were collected manually from the annual reports of these companies, and covered the period from 2016 to 2021. The Corporate Governance Index, which is developed through Saaty's method, is used to evaluate the overall level of CG implementation. Individual components of the CG Index are also examined. Between 2016 and 2021, the majority of the examined CG criteria and the overall CG Index showed improvement as compared to 2011 - 2015. However, currently, nearly 50% of companies do not disclose information on corporate governance, remuneration, and risk management, and many companies have not succeeded in establishing nomination and remuneration committees or making any progress in terms of board gender diversity. The Covid-19 pandemic has had a moderate impact on some criteria. On the one hand, the information on board member remuneration and risk management has moderately deteriorated. On the other hand, the audit committee has shown improvement. Nevertheless, the pandemic has not significantly affected the overall adoption of CG practices in Slovak companies.
Prerequisites and scenarios for the EU economy transformation inlight of Industry 4.0 development
Authors: Sytnik Inessa , Stopochkin Artem , Wielki Janusz , Edaich Said , Sytnik Bogdan
Published: July 2023

The purpose of this study is to verify the condition of European Union economy and its ability to effectively implement the concept of sustainable development in the era of the fourth industrial revolution. To achieve the goal settled by this research, we used the technical indicator MACD (Moving Average Convergence / Divergence), based on the assessment of the convergence and divergence of moving averages of macroeconomic indicators. The studies carried out made it possible to identify three scenarios for the state of the EU economy after 2022. All these scenarios pose a high risk of a crisis phenomena in this economic system. According to the optimistic scenario, after 2022, a downward correctional wave is predicted in the EU-27 economy with the emergence of a situation similar to the situation in 2008. The search for a new economic model based on the active implementation of Industry 4.0 technologies can become a way for the EU economy to recover from the crisis and move to a qualitatively new level of socio-economic development.
Testing the predictability of the Saudi market indices returns: Evidence from TADAWUL market
Authors: Altahtamouni Farouq
Published: July 2023

The purpose of this study is to determine whether the market index returns and sectoral indices returns in the Saudi stock market (TADAWUL) follow a random walk process as stated by the efficient market hypothesis for the years 2011-2020. The normal distribution test, runs test, variance ratio test, and Augmented Dickey-Fuller (ADF) were used to check the study hypotheses. At the weak-form level, the empirical findings reject the random walk hypothesis, indicating proving that not all historical data is completely reflected in stock prices. The study's conclusions are significant for Saudi stock market investors who are forming investment portfolios resemble to the market's portfolio.
Quantitative analysis using intraoperative contrast-enhanced ultrasound in adult-type diffuse gliomas with isocitrate dehydrogenase mutations: association between hemodynamics and molecular features
Authors: Zhang Xiandi , Shi Zhifeng , Xie Yuanxin , Wang Yong , Shen Chao , Qi Zengxin , Zhang Liqiong , Yang Bojie , Yu Jinhua , Ding Hong
Published: July 2023

Purpose: The relationship between contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) hemodynamics and the molecular biomarkers of adult-type diffuse gliomas, particularly isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH), remains unclear. This study was conducted to provide a comprehensive description of the vascularization of adult-type diffuse gliomas using quantitative indicators. Additionally, it was designed to identify any variables with the potential to intraoperatively predict IDH mutation status.Methods: This prospective study enrolled patients with adult-type diffuse gliomas between November 2021 and September 2022. Intraoperative CEUS was performed, and CEUS videos were recorded for 90-second periods. Hemodynamic parameters, including the peak enhancement (PE) difference, were calculated based on the time-intensity curve of the region of interest. A differential analysis was performed on the CEUS parameters with respect to molecular biomarkers and grades. Receiver operating characteristic curves for various parameters were analyzed to evaluate the ability of those parameters to predict IDH mutation status.Results: Sixty patients with adult-type diffuse gliomas were evaluated. All hemodynamic parameters, apart from rising time, demonstrated significant differences between IDH-mutant and IDH-wildtype adult-type diffuse gliomas. The PE difference emerged as the optimal indicator for differentiating between IDH-wildtype and IDH-mutant gliomas, with an area under the curve of 0.958 (95% confidence interval, 0.406 to 0.785). Additionally, the hemodynamic parameters revealed significant differences across both grades and types of adult-type diffuse gliomas.Conclusion: Hemodynamic parameters can be used intraoperatively to effectively distinguish between IDHwildtype and IDH-mutant adult-type diffuse gliomas. Additionally, quantitative CEUS equips neurosurgeons with dynamic perfusion information for various types and grades of adult-type diffuse gliomas.
Datos climáticos y prácticas recomendadas para proyectar cambios en la distribución de especies
Authors: Carril Andrea F. , Flombaum Pedro , Menéndez Claudio G.
Published: July 2023

Climate change is a complex phenomenon that affects all socio-environmental systems, manifesting itself uniquely in different regions. To comprehensively understand and project the extent of its impact, it is crucial to engage in a collaborative effort involving specialists from various disciplines. The international scientific community has made significant progress in developing diverse datasets for studying climate variability and change, along with the formulation of suitable methodologies for their analysis. However, there is a tendency within certain disciplines to rely solely on a single source of climate data, either for the sake of simplicity or due to its compatibility with desired resolution or availability requirements. In this context, climatologists express their apprehension regarding the uncritical utilization of climate databases. It is from this concern that the present article aims to provide a comprehensive description of the scope and limitations associated with the available databases. Furthermore, the article addresses the issue of uncertainty in climate projections and offers guidance on how to effectively employ climate data in conducting experiments pertaining to species distribution, while considering the inherent uncertainty associated with such data. Emphasis is placed on the significance of conducting multiple experiments utilizing independent climate projections, as well as utilizing statistical tools to draw conclusions based on a range of potential solutions. By adopting this approach, researchers can more effectively assess the impact of climate change and its implications for species distribution patterns.
Study of Synthesis and Performance of Clay and Clay-Manganese Monoliths for Mercury Ion Removal from Water
Authors: Chairunnisak Aula , Darmadi Darmadi , Adisalamun Adisalamun , Yusuf Mukramah , Mukhtar Syawaliah , Safitri Ulfa Rijal , Shafira Opie Azza
Published: July 2023

The pollution caused by mercury (Hg) is a matter of concern regarding worldwide ecosystems and public health. It is dangerous as it is highly poisonous and has more ways to get exposed than other heavy metal ions. Recently, the application of biomaterials with varying structures and designs for mercury adsorption has grown. In this research, clay monoliths (CM) and clay-manganese monoliths (CMM) were synthesized, investigated, and compared regarding their ability to adsorb mercury ions from water to determine the most effective adsorbents. CM and CMM were extruded through a stainless-steel molder with dimensions of 7 holes, 9 mm in radius, and 20 mm in height. The surface morphologies of both adsorbents were characterized using infrared (IR) spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The effects of contact time (40, 80, 120, 160, 200, and 240 minutes) and initial concentrations (3–5 mg/L) were applied to evaluate both adsorption processes. The experiment was conducted in a batch reactor using a monolithic adsorbent that operated for 240 minutes. The experimental equilibrium data of the adsorption were examined with Langmuir and Freundlich models to find the best-fit isotherm. In the kinetic study, the pseudo-first-order was investigated in both linear and nonlinear models. The adsorption results showed that CMM had the highest adsorption efficiency (42.7%). The equilibrium study concluded that the Langmuir was the most significant isotherm model. The highest monolayer capacity and Langmuir constants (KL and aL) were 0.396, 1.329, and 0.396, respectively. The adsorption of both adsorbents was well displayed in the pseudo-first-order non-linear model. Experiments and processed data compromise the finding that CMM is more effective than CM at adsorbing mercury ions.