bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Are Sales Successful Due to Salespeople Expertise and Adaptability? Gender and Age Dynamics in Investment Banking
Authors: Valenzuela-Fernández Leslier , Villegas Pinuer Francisco
Published: February 2025

This study provides valuable insights into understanding how salesperson behavior, whether technical knowledge (TK) or adaptive selling behavior (ASB), influences a customer’s attitude toward the salesperson (AS). We analyzed the relationships between investment bank customers and the bank in Chile using a cross-sectional sample of 115 customers. Multi-group structural equation modeling (SEM) analyses were performed to test the moderating effects of customer gender and age. The empirical analysis shows that a salesperson’s TK and ASB contribute significantly and positively to AS. Furthermore, there’s a synergistic effect between these two independent factors, indicating a reinforcement effect. The effect of TK on AS is significant for both males and females. In this line, no studies have jointly analyzed the effects of TK and ASB on AS from the customer perspective. About the moderation analysis, this pioneering article finds (1) moderating effects of age in the relationship between TK and AS in magnitude and between ASB and AS, which is significant only in the older customer groups (>50 years), and (2) moderating effects of gender in the relationship between ASB and AS, where it is only significant in female customers that consider relevant the adaptability in the investment context. These results reveal the relevance of aligning salespeople and customer demographic patterns. Therefore, these findings have critical implications for investment banking in developing sales strategies and cultivating customer relationships.
Efficiency assessment of taxi operations using data envelopment analysis
Authors: Loureiro A. L. D. , Oliveira Renata , Miguéis V. L. , Costa Álvaro , Ferreira Michel
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The economic development, well-being of the population, and environmental protection are all strongly linked to a sustainable transportation network. In this sense, in order to ensure a high level of sustainability, it is crucial to have a comprehensive understanding of this sector. As an integrated element of these transportation systems, the efficiency assessment of taxis’ operations is essential in setting managerial strategies for leveraging the sustainability of taxi system.

Methodology

This study employs a two-stage bootstrap Data Envelopment Analysis approach to assess the efficiency of taxis’ operations, with a focus on minimizing service time and distance traveled. Additionally, this study innovates on investigating the impact of distinct contextual factors on efficiency scores attained to uncover the determinants of taxi operations’ efficiency. The methodology is validated using real data collected from onboard devices of a fleet operating in a Portuguese city over a one-year period.

Results

The results obtained show that taxis of the fleet can significantly reduce service time and distance traveled, without affecting output levels. Moreover, the decisive role of the stands where taxis queue on the efficiency of their operation is also verified.

Conclusions

The findings can support practitioners in reaching a more suitable and efficient allocation of resources, leading to a more sustainable transportation combined with improved business results. Furthermore, this study contributes to the current literature by suggesting recommendations to assist managers and public administrators in defining improvement actions for the taxi sector.
Why patients fail to seek information on OTC product interactions with a direct-acting oral anticoagulant: perspectives on information-seeking
Authors: Magee Marley P.D. , Schwartz Janice B. , McArthur Amanda , Liu Ruey-Ying , Tarn Derjung M.
Published: February 2025

Background

Many patients taking direct-acting oral anticoagulants (DOACs) also consume over-the-counter (OTC) products (dietary supplements and OTC medications), yet many lack knowledge of potential interactions that may increase or decrease DOAC efficacy and may not seek information about OTC products. The objective of this study was to describe patient attitudes and beliefs that inhibited information seeking about potential apixaban-OTC product interactions.

Methods

Participants included English-, Spanish-, Mandarin-, and Cantonese-speaking adults from two large academic medical centers who reported taking apixaban (a frequently prescribed DOAC) in the past month. Thematic analysis was performed on semi-structured interviews.

Results

Sixty patients aged 24–93 years (mean = 65.3; SD = 15.6) were interviewed; 55% were women. Participants took a total of 236 OTC products. Those with potential interactions with apixaban warranting consideration for therapy modification included: ibuprofen (n = 14; 5.9%), aspirin (n = 8; 3.4%), and naproxen (n = 3; 1.3%). Interviews revealed 5 major themes related to a lack of information-seeking about OTC products: (1) patients lack awareness of the potential for interactions; (2) patients believe that OTC products are safe and/or regulated (largely because they were familiar with the products, had previously taken them, or assumed that dietary supplements were regulated by the Food and Drug Administration); (3) patients believe that providers are responsible for alerting patients about potential interactions (as patients assumed that providers were aware of their OTC product use); (4) patients had prior knowledge of and/or used OTC products infrequently; and (5) obtaining information can be inconvenient. Inquiries regarding preferred information sources revealed 59 (98.3%) patients most frequently sought or would seek information from physicians and 34 (56.7%) from the internet.

Conclusions

Patients taking apixaban raised reasons for not seeking information about potential OTC product interactions that included poor awareness, perceptions regarding the safety of OTC products, and beliefs in provider responsibility for informing them about interactions. Greater patient education is needed regarding the potential for OTC product-DOAC interactions and the regulation of OTC products, particularly dietary supplements.
“I’m not alone”: perinatal women’s experiences in an online self-directed program for perinatal anxiety
Authors: Uchechukwu Light , Hardman Madison P. , Hadley Isabelle , Gornik Megan E. , Petty Sarah K. , Pryor Teaghan A. M. , Alcolado Gillian M. , Furer Patricia , Reynolds Kristin A.
Published: February 2025

Background

Anxiety is highly prevalent during pregnancy and postpartum, and access to treatment can be difficult due to a range of barriers (e.g., time, distance, and service availability). Online treatments have the potential to circumvent these barriers and may, therefore, be beneficial for the perinatal population. The present study leveraged qualitative methods to understand participants’ perspectives on their use of a six-module online self-directed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) program for perinatal anxiety as part of a randomized controlled trial.

Methods

A mixed qualitative method design was used for this study. A total of 95 perinatal women were randomized to an intervention or waitlist control condition for an online self-directed program (Overcoming Perinatal Anxiety; OPA). Both waitlist and intervention participants provided open-ended feedback on each module via online surveys. A subset of individuals (n = 20) assigned to the intervention condition completed a virtual qualitative interview about their experiences using the program. Data obtained from open-ended survey questions and qualitative interviews were analyzed using Conventional Content Analysis (open-ended survey) and Reflexive Thematic Analysis (interviews).

Results

Open-ended survey data were categorized into three themes, with associated sub-themes: User experience (subthemes: accessibility and modality), Perceptions of content (sub-themes: validating, informative, hopeful, anxiety-inducing, emotionally “heavy”, and helpful), and Barriers to program engagement (subthemes: lack of time and energy, technical difficulties, challenging and external factors). Qualitative interview data were categorized into the following main themes, with associated subthemes: Tensions in engaging with the self-directed program (subthemes: connecting and multi-tasking, “finding the time,” module length and pacing, pen to paper, and “thanks for the reminder but don’t rush me”), “I’m not alone,” (subthemes: relating to the content, sharing anxiety with “inner circle,” and voicing a desire to connect with other “moms feeling the same way”), and “I’m managing my anxiety” (subthemes: “understanding my anxiety,” using “strategies to help with my anxiety,” “taking time for myself,” and moving forward).

Conclusion

Findings highlight that online self-directed treatment can be an acceptable and feasible option for perinatal anxiety. Findings show promise for the scalability of OPA to improve access to psychological treatment for perinatal people experiencing anxiety.

Trial registration

Clinical Trial Identifier: NCT04844138 (clinicaltrials.gov).

Trial registration submitted: [April 5, 2021] accepted: [April 14, 2021].
Facilitators and barriers to participation and scale-up of a non-specialist delivered psychological intervention for adolescents in low-resourced settings: a process evaluation
Authors: Terp Alissa M. , Habashneh Rand , Brown Felicity L. , Abualhaija Adnan , Aqel Ibrahim S. , Ghatasheh Maha , Bryant Richard , Jordans Mark J. D. , Malik Aiysha , Mittendorfer-Rutz Ellenor , Akhtar Aemal
Published: February 2025

Globally, the number of refugees and displaced individuals has surpassed 100 million for the first time in history. Refugees are more likely than non-refugee populations to experience psychological distress and develop mental disorders. Early Adolescent Skills for Emotion (EASE), developed by the World Health Organization, is a potentially scalable task-sharing intervention targeting symptoms of internalizing disorders such as depression and anxiety for 10–15 years old and their caregiver. Prior to this study a randomized controlled trial in Amman, Jordan was conducted showing effectiveness of EASE reducing caregiver distress and inconsistent disciplinary parenting as well as reducing internalizing problems in adolescence. This study aims to explore individual and contextual barriers and facilitators for scaling the EASE intervention for Syrian refugees in Jordan. Ten semi-structured interviews and four focus group discussions were conducted between October 2020 and February 2023 with five key mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) informants, eight EASE providers, 11 adolescents, and 12 caregivers. Purposeful quota sampling technique was used to recruit participants with attention to sex and age and number of interviews and focus group discussions determined through empirical saturation. Inductive and deductive codes were utilized in a six-step thematic analysis. Participants reported a beneficial impact of EASE sessions in terms of reducing experienced anxiety levels, improved communication between adolescents and caregivers, reduced feelings of anger and jealousy, and improved familial relationships. Individual participation was hampered by transportation issues, scheduling conflicts, gender-mixed groups, and competing responsibilities. Scale-up facilitators included; increased mental health awareness, perceived low cost of EASE, feasibility of delivery by non-specialists, and an intervention engaging both adolescents and caregivers. Barriers included location, online sessions, sustainability, general implementation issues caused by individual barriers, and some concerns about non-specialists. Results add nuances not detected in the previous randomized control trial in Jordan and provide important context for understanding effectiveness results. Future research should investigate the cost-effectiveness of EASE along with stepped-care implementation models to provide EASE within existing health systems.
Determining the methodological rigor and overall quality of out-of-hospital clinical practice guidelines: a scoping review
Authors: Schultz Brendan V. , Barker Timothy H. , Bosley Emma , Munn Zachary
Published: February 2025

Objectives

Out-of-hospital clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) guide paramedics, emergency medical technicians and first responders, but their quality remains uncertain. This scoping review aims to identify, aggregate and describe all literature that has used a structured appraisal instrument to assess the methodological rigor and overall quality of out-of-hospital CPGs.

Methods

This study was conducted in accordance with the JBI methodology for scoping reviews and involved systematically searching the following databases and/or information sources with no publication or language limit applied: MEDLINE (Ovid), Embase (Elsevier), CINAHL with full text (EBSCO), Scopus (Elsevier), ProQuest Central (ProQuest).

Results

This review identified 15 articles that appraised 311 unique out-of-hospital CPGs. These CPGs ranged in date of publication from 1998 to 2022. The majority of CPGs (267/311) were assessed using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research & Evaluation (AGREE-II) instrument, with 146 guidelines appraised against two tools. Following aggregation, CPGs scored highest in Domain 4 (clarity of presentation) at 77.7% (SD = 15.1%), and lowest in Domain 5 (applicability) at 42.6% (SD = 23.7%). The average Domain 3 score (rigor of development) was 55.6% (SD = 25.7%). Of CPGs appraised against the AGREE-II instrument, 34.4% met our a priori definition of being high-quality (Domain 3 score of equal to or greater than 75%), while 31.3% were deemed medium-quality (Domain 3 score between 74% and 50%), and 34.3% were considered low-quality (Domain 3 score less than 50%). There were no significant changes observed in the average Domain 3 score over time (p = 0.092). 146 CPGs were assessed against the National Academy of Medicine criteria with 34.9% meeting all elements indicative of being a high-quality guideline, while 39 CPGs were assessed the 2016 National Health and Medical Research Council Standards for Guidelines with 0% meeting all criteria.

Conclusions

Out-of-hospital CPGs currently have poor methodological rigor and are of medium to low overall quality. These results should be used to inform future research and initiatives that aim to standardize the methods used to develop guidelines used in this healthcare setting.
Proteomic insights into molecular alterations associated with Kawasaki disease in children
Authors: Wang Chengyi , Yu Wenxin , Wu Xinyue , Wang Shibiao , Chen Lumin , Liu Guanghua
Published: February 2025

Background

Kawasaki disease (KD) is a pediatric vasculitis that can lead to coronary artery complications if not promptly diagnosed. Its nonspecific early symptoms, primarily fever, often result in misdiagnosis. This study aimed to identify potential biomarkers for early KD diagnosis using proteomic analysis of blood samples.

Methods

Serum samples were collected from three groups: children with acute KD (n = 20, CQB group), age-matched febrile children with bacterial infections (n = 20, C group), and children recovered from KD (n = 8, CQBC group). Proteomic analysis was performed to identify differentially expressed proteins in serum specimens, followed by functional and pathway enrichment analysis.

Results

Compared to controls, 92 proteins were upregulated and 101 were downregulated in acute KD, with significant enrichment in the AMPK pathway. In recovered KD, 537 proteins were upregulated and 231 downregulated, predominantly affecting the PI3K-Akt pathway. A total of 56 proteins showed contrasting expression patterns between acute and recovery phases, implicating the complement and coagulation cascades. Notably, complement component 6 (C6), complement component 3 (C3), and α1-antitrypsin (A1AT) emerged as potential biomarkers involved in KD progression and recovery.

Conclusions

C6, C3, and A1AT may serve as novel biomarkers for early KD diagnosis and monitoring. These findings provide new insights into KD pathogenesis and potential targets for clinical application.
The effects of response time on older and young adults’ interaction experience with Chatbot
Authors: Wang Ya-Ling , Lo Chi-Wen
Published: February 2025

Background

Chatbots, such as Siri, Alexa, and ChatGPT, are increasingly integrated into various domains, including customer service and virtual companionship, transforming human-computer interactions. However, there remains limited understanding of how response time—a critical social cue—affects user experience across different age groups, particularly in virtual companionship contexts. This gap is especially relevant in aging societies where older adults’ emotional and relational needs require tailored technological solutions.

Methods

A 2 × 2 between-subjects experiment was conducted with 160 Taiwanese participants from two age groups: young adults (18–23 years old) and older adults (56–81 years old). Participants interacted with chatbots under two conditions: instant responses (approximately 3 s) and delayed responses (10–60 s). User experience was measured using social presence (SP), service encounter satisfaction (SAT), and intention of use (IOU) through validated questionnaires. Two-way ANOVA was employed to analyze the main and interaction effects of response time and age group.

Results

The findings revealed a significant interaction effect between response time and age group. While younger adults preferred instant responses, older adults showed a preference for delayed responses. Specifically: (1) Instant responses led to higher satisfaction and engagement for younger adults, who value efficiency and immediacy. (2) Delayed responses facilitated cognitive comfort and enhanced relational value for older adults, emphasizing the importance of conversational pacing.

Conclusions

This study highlights the critical role of response time in chatbot design, revealing how age-specific preferences influence user satisfaction in virtual companionship scenarios. Findings underscore the need for adaptive chatbot designs that align with cognitive and emotional needs across age groups. Broader implications emphasize the importance of balancing digitally assisted companionship with the risks of dehumanization. Future research should explore long-term interaction effects and cultural differences to enhance chatbot inclusivity and effectiveness.
The spatial consistency and repeatability of migratory flight routes and stationary sites of individual European nightjars based on multiannual GPS tracks
Authors: Norevik Gabriel , Åkesson Susanne , Hedenström Anders
Published: February 2025

Background

The degree to which avian migrants revisit the same sites to replicate routes from previous years has received more and more attention as the possibilities of tracking small to medium-size birds over multiple annual cycles have improved. Repeated measurements of individuals with an appropriate sampling resolution can potentially inform about their navigation and migration strategies and to what extent observed variation within and between individuals may reflect the selective potential in the population.

Methods

We analysed the annual space-use of European nightjars Caprimulgus europaeus tracked with GPS-loggers in multiple years between northern Europe and southern Africa. We quantified spatial consistency of stationary sites and variation, repeatability, and latitudinal correlations in route choice and also investigated barrier-associated changes of within- and between-individual longitudinal variation in flight routes.

Results

We found that the nightjars consistently used the same breeding and wintering sites. In contrast, the birds generally varied their migration routes between years, and we could only rarely confirm site fidelity to stopover sites. Nevertheless, route variation within individuals remained low for most of both autumn and spring migration, while the between individual variation generally was larger, resulting in a high repeatability in flight routes. Although we found extensive spatial autocorrelation in both seasons across latitudes, we detected significant changes in longitudinal variation associated with the passage of ecological barriers enroute. Potential intermediate goal areas were visited prior to the crossing of the Mediterranean Sea and the Sahara Desert in both seasons. In spring, within-individual route variability dropped to a few tens of kilometres at the initiation of the Sahara crossing but increased to maximum over the barrier.

Conclusions

The nightjars incorporate individual-specific space use within their annual cycle that allows for a degree of flexibility during migration, possibly driven by the energetic benefits of allowing adaptive wind drift while airborne. Our data demonstrate how topography and spatial autocorrelation of positions influence flight path variability that may diminish or reinforce individuality in route choice. Hence, this study highlights that identifying and quantifying past and present external influences on emergence of realised routes can be critical for distinguishing the genetic basis and environmental variation in migration.
Factors influencing open gingival embrasures in orthodontic treatment: a retrospective clinical study
Authors: Tian Erkang , Luo Kaihui , Zhou Yimei , Jiang Fulin , Zhang Rongxiu , Liu Lisa , Zhao Hui , Hong Jiawei , Li Juan , Cheng Fangyuan
Published: February 2025

Objective

This study aims to evaluate the incidence of open gingival embrasures (OGES) after orthodontic treatment and analyze its correlation with various clinical and radiographic parameters.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 330 orthodontic patients at West China Hospital of Stomatology from 2016 to 2023, categorizing them into Non-OGES (200) and OGES (130) groups based on post-treatment OGES presence in the central incisor area. Basic information of patients, pre- and post-treatment lateral cephalometric radiographs, and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) data were collected. Chi-square tests, two-sample t-tests, Welch’s t-tests, and Mann–Whitney U tests were used to compare differences in gender, initial age, treatment duration, and cephalometric and CBCT indicators between the two groups. Binary logistic regression analysis was further employed to explore the clinical characteristics and cephalometric indicators of the study population.

Results

Univariate analysis revealed that the occurrence of maxillary central incisor OGES was significantly correlated with gender, initial age, treatment duration, and related cephalometric and CBCT indicators (P < 0.05). Similarly, the occurrence of mandibular central incisor OGES was also significantly associated with gender, initial age, treatment duration, and specific cephalometric changes (P < 0.05). Binary logistic regression analysis indicated that the occurrence of maxillary central incisor OGES was significantly related to initial age, treatment duration, and the change in the U1-SN angle, while the occurrence of OGES in the mandibular central incisor area was mainly related to initial age and treatment duration.

Conclusion

Orthodontic treatment plans should consider a variety of influencing factors, including initial age, treatment duration, anterior tooth angle and position, root-bone relationship, and the distance from the anterior tooth contact point to the alveolar crest, to prevent or reduce the occurrence of OGES after orthodontic treatment, thereby improving patients’ aesthetic outcomes and periodontal health.
Trapped-ion based nanoscale quantum sensing
Authors: Yoo Jieun , Kim Hyunsoo , Kim Hyerin , Kim Yeongseo , Choi Taeyoung
Published: February 2025

Recent development of controlling quantum systems has enabled us to utilize the systems for quantum computing, communication, and sensing. In particular, quantum sensing has attracted attention to a broad community of science and technology, as it could surpass classical limitations in measuring physical quantities such as electric and magnetic field with unprecedented precision. Among various physical platforms for quantum sensing, trapped-ion based system possesses several advantages—atomic size, outstanding quantum coherence, and quantum properties. In this review, we introduce previous research efforts to utilize the trapped-ion system for reaching ultimate sensitivity and discuss future perspective and research directions in this emerging field.

Graphical Abstract
Role of grain size on the corrosion resistance of pipeline steels in acidic environment
Authors: Nnoka Meekness , Jack Tonye Alaso , Yadav Sandeep , Szpunar Jerzy
Published: February 2025

The microstructure of pipeline steels plays an important role in determining their resistance to corrosion. Among various microstructural features, grain size has been a topic of ongoing debate regarding its influence on the corrosion resistance of pipeline steels. While it is established that grain size inversely correlates with yield strength, its impact on corrosion resistance in acidic environments remains unclear. This study investigated the effects of grain size on the corrosion resistance of pipeline steels exposed to an acidic environment. Heat treatments were conducted to vary the grain size from 8 to 19 µm while minimizing contributions from other microstructural features. The findings revealed that reducing grain size significantly enhanced corrosion resistance by promoting passivation. Grain boundaries were identified as the preferred sites for forming protective oxide layers, compared to grain interiors. Consequently, samples with finer grains, which inherently possess a higher density of grain boundaries, exhibited enhanced passivation, resulting in greater surface coverage by protective oxide layers. In contrast, samples with larger grains primarily formed oxide layers along the grain boundaries, leaving the grain interiors more susceptible to attack by corrosive species. Additionally, a phenomenological model was developed based on the experimental results. This model was validated through independent measurements, confirming that passivation coverage increases with decreasing grain size in acidic environment.
Beyond boundaries: a location-based toolkit for quantifying group dynamics in diverse contexts
Authors: Elkin-Frankston Seth , McIntyre James , Brunyé Tad T. , Gardony Aaron L. , Hancock Clifford L. , O’Donovan Meghan P. , Bode Victoria G. , Miller Eric L.
Published: February 2025

Existing toolkits for analyzing movement dynamics in animal ecology primarily focus on individual or group behavior in habitats without predefined boundaries, while methods for studying human activity often cater to bounded environments, such as team sports played on defined fields. This leaves a gap in tools for modeling and analyzing human group dynamics in large-scale, unbounded, or semi-constrained environments. Examples of such contexts include tourist groups, cycling teams, search and rescue teams, and military units. To address this issue, we survey existing methods and metrics for characterizing individual and collective movement in humans and animals. Using a rich GPS dataset from groups of military personnel engaged in a foot march, we develop a comprehensive, general-purpose toolkit for quantifying group dynamics using location-based metrics during goal-directed movement in open environments. This toolkit includes a repository of Python functions for extracting and analyzing movement data, integrating cognitive factors such as decision-making, situational awareness, and group coordination. By extending location-based analytics to non-traditional domains, this toolkit enhances the understanding of collective movement, group behavior, and emergent properties shaped by cognitive processes. To demonstrate its practical utility, we present a use case utilizing metrics derived from the foot march data to predict group performance during a subsequent strategic and tactical exercise, highlighting the influence of cognitive and decision-making behaviors on team effectiveness.
Transparent systems, opaque results: a study on automation compliance and task performance
Authors: Pharmer Rebecca L. , Wickens Christopher D. , Clegg Benjamin A.
Published: February 2025

In two experiments, we examine how features of an imperfect automated decision aid influence compliance with the aid in a simplified, simulated nautical collision avoidance task. Experiment 1 examined the impact of providing transparency in the pre-task instructions regarding which attributes of the task that the aid uses to provide its recommendations. Results showed that transparency here positively influenced compliance with the aid, leading to better task performance. Experiment 2 manipulated transparency via confidence estimates presented alongside the aid’s recommendations. There were no benefits from this form of transparency. In Experiment 2, lower compliance with the aid’s recommendations was found on more difficult collision problems, via a mediating loss of aid reliability and therefore trust. This runs contrary to the hypothesis that harder problems to solve ought to make participants more, rather than less dependent on the aid. Both experiments produced relatively low correlations between trust and compliance. The findings have important implications for the effectiveness of different kinds of transparency implementations, as well as providing a model/framework for understanding how generic factors such as automation reliability and problem difficulty influence both compliance and trust.
Development and refinement of the Clinical Global Impression of Improvement for Non-seizure Symptoms measure in Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome
Authors: Andrews J. Scott , Shah Drishti , Nacson Alise , Symonds Tara , Hughes Sophie , Asgharnejad Mahnaz , Benitez Arturo , Sams Lara
Published: February 2025

Background

Dravet syndrome (DS) and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS) are rare, severe, childhood-onset developmental and epileptic encephalopathies characterized by treatment-resistant epilepsy and varying intellectual disability levels. Clinical outcome assessments (COAs) describe how patients feel, function, or survive, thus providing valuable information on a therapy’s efficacy and impact. Individuals with DS or LGS are heterogeneous, and many have limited verbal abilities and intellectual disability. Existing epilepsy-specific COA measures are unsuitable for DS and LGS clinical trials as many items demonstrate floor effects in these populations. As patients often cannot self-report symptoms, caregiver feedback on the measures’ relevance and understandability is critical when developing COAs to ensure their suitability for the intended population, and that caregivers can help clinicians complete the measures when necessary.

Methodology

We aimed to develop a novel clinician-reported outcomes measure, to be completed in consultation with caregivers at clinic visits, to assess non-seizure symptoms in individuals with DS or LGS using a Clinical Global Impression of Improvement (CGI–I) approach: the CGI-I Non-seizure Symptoms measure. A 13-item initial draft measure was reviewed by experts in a three-round Delphi panel to confirm each item’s relevance and refine descriptions, reduce overlap, and limit respondent burden.

Results

Following panel review, three items reached consensus (≥70% agreement of no revision required) and were included in the final measure: communication, alertness, and disruptive behaviors. To ensure caregivers can help clinicians complete the measure, and to establish levels of change in each item domain considered meaningful from their perspective, the three-item measure was cognitively debriefed with caregivers of individuals with DS or LGS. Caregivers showed that each item was understandable by describing their child using the descriptions provided in the measure and reported that items were relevant or important to assess in DS or LGS. Most caregivers reported that even a minimal change to their child’s condition in each domain would be meaningful to them and their child.

Conclusions

This CGI-I Non-seizure Symptoms measure represents relevant non-seizure outcomes considered important to individuals with DS or LGS and their families. The systematic development and refinement approach presented here supports its use in DS and LGS clinical trials.
Study on solidification modification and engineering characteristics of solid waste-based cementitious materials on pile spoil
Authors: Cai Yanbiao , Wu Yuxian , Zhou Zuo , Zhao Jihui , Liu Jinyu , Ou Wei , Liang Jiankai , Li Zhong
Published: February 2025

In view of the problem of difficult treatment of pile spoil in infrastructure construction, the solid waste-based cementitious material was designed and used as the solidifier for pile spoil. The modification of solidifier on pile spoil was studied from the aspects of physical and chemical characteristics, microstructure, and engineering characteristics. The results show that the solid waste-based cementitious material, primarily composed of granulated blast furnace slag (GBFS) powder, steel slag powder, steel slag dust, and desulfurization gypsum, exhibits excellent synergistic hydration effects. Under the action of alkaline solution, a large amount of Ca2+, [SiO4]4−, [AlO4]5− and SO4
2− are released from the system, to form C-S–H, Ca(OH)2, N-A-S–H, AFt, and other hydration products through a series of chemical reaction processes. With a slag/(steel slag) ratio of 6:3, the cementitious material S631 shows superior hydration and hardening performance, achieving compressive strengths of 15.9 MPa, 25.7 MPa, and 49.8 MPa at 3, 7, and 28 days, respectively. Solid waste-based cementitious material S631 was further used as solidifier to treat the pile spoil. The solidified pile spoil begins to harden within about 5 to 16 h and loses its plasticity between 67.5 and 84.1 h. The higher the dosage of solidifier, the quicker the hardening rate, with the spoil containing 10% solidifier reaching unconfined compressive strengths of 0.68 MPa and 1.13 MPa at 7 and 28 days, respectively. The active silicoaluminate minerals of the solidifier produce C-S–H gels and other products through solution-precipitation reaction, which connects the mineral particles of pile spoil. Macroscopically, it is manifested as the hardening of the solidified soil and the generation of strength. In terms of engineering characteristics, the use of solidifier reduces the liquid and plastic limits of pile spoil while increasing its plasticity index, optimum moisture content, and maximum dry density. In the experiments of simulating the influence of compaction degree and wheel loading rate on the strength of engineering soil in actual roadbed engineering, the solidified soil has shown better strength performance, indicating that the solidifier improved and optimized the engineering characteristics of the pile spoil.
Distinct requirements for PI3K isoforms p110α and p110δ for PIP3 synthesis in mouse oocytes and early embryos
Authors: Bourdais Anne , Viard Patricia , Bormann Jenny , Sesboüé Côme , Guerrier Daniel , Therville Nicole , Guillermet-Guibert Julie , Carroll John , Halet Guillaume
Published: February 2025

The PI3K/Akt pathway is thought to regulate key steps of mammalian oogenesis, such as dormant oocyte awakening during follicular activation, meiotic resumption and oocyte maturation. Supporting evidence is however indirect, as oocyte PI3K activation has never been formally demonstrated, and the PI3K isoforms involved have not been revealed. Here, we employed fluorescent PIP3 biosensors to characterize PI3K dynamics in mouse oocytes and we investigated the contribution of PI3K isoform p110α via conditional genetic ablation. Prophase oocytes showed baseline PI3K/Akt activation that could be further stimulated by adding Kit ligand (KitL). Contrary to previous reports, maternal PI3K proved dispensable for oocyte maturation in vitro, yet it was required for PIP3 synthesis in early embryos. We further show that oocyte p110α is not essential for oogenesis and female fertility. Accordingly, our data suggest that KitL activates isoform p110δ for PIP3 synthesis in oocytes. In contrast, constitutive PIP3 synthesis in early embryos is achieved by maternal p110α acting redundantly with p110δ. This study highlights the relevance of PIP3 biosensors in establishing the dynamics, mechanisms and roles of maternal PI3K signaling during mammalian oogenesis.
Ανατομική μελέτη, πορεία και παραλλαγές του μείζονος θωρακικού πόρου και συσχέτιση αυτού με την κλινική χειρουργική
Authors: Ζούγκου Θεώνη
Published: February 2025

Στην παρούσα έρευνα μελετήθηκαν 18 ανθρώπινα πτώματα. Από αυτά 5 δεν είχαν καθόλου χυλοφόρα δεξαμενή. Οι ιστοί τοποθετήθηκαν σε διάλυμα φορμόλης 10% και πραγματοποιούνταν χρώση των ιστών με την ουσία 5-φλουορεσκεΐνης, η οποία ειδική για την μελέτη του συμπαθητικού συστήματος.Όλες οι παρατηρήσεις του ερευνητή τοποθετήθηκαν σε ηλεκτρονική τράπεζα πληροφοριών (DATA) για την ασφαλή εξαγωγή παρατηρήσεων και συμπερασμάτων.
Occupational therapists’ perspectives on the use of exoskeletons for post-stroke rehabilitation
Authors: Muir Brittney , Teng Tiffani , Nagle-Chrsitensen Avocet , Lacey Abbey , Geller Claira , Stutzenberger Matthew , Howard Ileana
Published: February 2025

Robot-assisted therapy is a promising approach to enhance stroke rehabilitation, particularly in improving upper-limb function through intensive and repetitive training. Successful integration of technology into clinical practice relies on therapists’ acceptance and endorsement. Our purpose is to share the perspectives of the occupational therapists who facilitate robot-assisted therapy and the benefits and challenges of practical implementation of the robot. Clinicians who worked with stroke survivors to research the usability, feasibility, and efficacy of the Harmony exoskeleton discuss their impressions of the technology on stroke rehabilitation. Overall, therapists expressed positive views on the therapeutic and adjunctive use of robot-assisted technology, emphasizing patient engagement, objective evaluations of progress, and ease of certain aspects of their role. Additional feedback highlighted the Harmony exoskeleton’s ability to promote neuromuscular re-education and foster neuroplasticity. Barriers to implementation include physical capabilities, patient suitability, technical difficulties, and the need for advanced quantitative feedback and data analysis. To maximize the impact of robot-assisted therapy in stroke rehabilitation, ongoing research and development are necessary to address identified challenges. Improved limb support, quantitative feedback, equipment reliability, and more levels of weight support for patients with higher levels of function may improve therapist acceptance of this device and may inform exoskeleton development.
Centauros digitales: un nuevo reto para el trabajo decente en la industria 4.0
Authors: García Pinilla Cristian Andrés
Published: February 2025

A lo largo de la historia el surgimiento de las tecnologías ha fomentado el crecimiento económico de la humanidad,mejorando su calidad de vida y las formas de producción de su materia prima. Dichos cambios siempre han generado un punto de inflexión en el que los principales afectados son los trabajadores, que ven cómo son precarizados en sus condiciones de trabajo hasta el punto de que son las personas las que gestionan un cambio social e ideológico en el que el Estado debe interceder para garantizar derechos mínimos. El presente capítulo tiene como objetivo presentar a los empleadores y al público en general una nueva forma de entender el trabajo mancomunado entre los humanos y las nuevas tecnologías denominadas centauros digitales sin que ello conlleve a la precarización laboral o la total automatización de sus procesos productivos.
El capítulo cuenta con ocho apartados en los que se desarrollarán los cambios que ha tenido la sociedad con fundamento a las revoluciones industriales, específicamente la cuarta revolución industrial o industria 4.0; se explican las nuevas tecnologías y su uso en el trabajo; el concepto del “centauro digital” como nuevo paradigma en las relaciones laborales en el siglo xxi y sus habilidades; la irrupción del centauro digital en la industria 4.0, tomando como referencia los principales problemas de las nuevas tecnologías y su uso cotidiano; y los nuevos enfoques del centauro digital; asimismo, se presenta un panorama amplio sobre el manejo de nuevas tecnologías con fundamento en la labor desempeñada por el trabajador con base en una serie de principios; por último, se habla acerca del centauro digital en Colombia y se presentan las conclusiones.
Protección social para las nuevas formas de trabajo en la economía digital en Colombia
Authors: Aranda Panqueva Nicolle Manuela
Published: February 2025

El presente capítulo tiene como finalidad analizar los aspectos generales de las modalidades de trabajo que surgieron gracias a la economía digital, específicamente el aspecto de la seguridad social previsto para cada una de ellas. Con base en lo anterior, cabe preguntar: ¿Las normas y regulaciones de las nuevas modalidades de trabajo, en el marco de la economía digital, son suficientes para garantizar el acceso efectivo a la protección social en Colombia?
La subordinación como elemento esencial en el reconocimiento de los derechos laborales en la economía colaborativa
Authors: Cubillos Collazos Mónica Paola
Published: February 2025

Este capítulo indagará la forma de regulación existente en materia de seguridad social en Colombia frente al trabajador que recibe la denominación de nómada digital. Lo anterior, partiendo de los cambios que han surgido con el uso de las nuevas tecnologías en aplicación de trabajo remoto y con el inicio del confinamiento decretado por la Organización Mundial de la Salud con ocasión a la emergencia sanitaria debido a la pandemia por la covid-19). A partir de lo anterior, los cambios generados por la pandemia nos han obligado, en materia laboral, a adaptarnos a nuevas formas de trabajar y de vivir, circunstancias que generan para el legislador retos en torno a una actualización normativa con el objetivo de crear herramientas que brinden a los nómadas digitales seguridad jurídica a través de una regulación segura.
Por consiguiente, este capítulo se desarrolla en el marco de un objetivo principal que consiste en determinar la regulación existente en materia de seguridad social para nómadas digitales; como objetivos segundarios, busca evaluar si es importante que los nómadas digitales cuenten con cobertura en seguridad social, analizar si ser nómada digital es una figura viable para el Sistema General de Seguridad Social y verificar si es eficiente expedir normatividad que regule la cobertura de riesgos laborales para nómadas digitales en Colombia.
La protección de la maternidad en el contexto de la economía colaborativa incidencia en el sostenimiento del sistema de seguridad social integral
Authors: Bonilla Sanabria Lina Paola
Published: February 2025

Conforme a lo anterior, este capítulo, sustentado en una investigación cualitativa y de argumentación con enfoque descriptivo, se fundamenta en la pregunta ¿Existe una protección real de la mujer gestante en el contexto de la economía digital, en el modelo económico de intermediación de economía colaborativa? El objeto es, pues, estudiar el papel de la mujer trabajadora a través de la historia y el ejercicio de su tarea del cuidado, y cuál sería su papel en el contexto de la economía colaborativa.
Religious and Cultural Heritage in Boka Kotorska: The Case of Banja Monastery and its Surroundings
Authors: Petrović Marko D. , Petrović Ana Paprenica , Denda Stefan
Published: February 2025

Abstract: Banja monastery in Risan (Montenegro) is one of the most vital structures of the Serbian Orthodox Church outside the homeland. It is a valuable example of religious, cultural, and artistic features of national tradition and historical development in the Middle Ages. Established in the 12th century, during the period of the Nemanjići dynasty, the monastery throughout its stormy past played a signiicant role in preserving the spirituality and cultural heritage of the Serbs in the Bay of Boka Kotorska—an area in the Balkans strongly impacted by the Roman Catholic Church from the west and the Islamic religion from the east. The study revealed the cultural-historic features of the monastery and its surroundings, which are of importance for its existence and development. Further, the indings provide a more comprehensive insight into the foundation, items, and activities of the monastery, along with the current sisterhood who strongly contributes to its existence with their faith, devotion, and efforts.
Interview with Milena Marković* at Profesorska kolonija, Belgrade September 2023
Authors: Petrović Vladimir
Published: February 2025

Abstract: Milena Marković (b. 1974) is an award-winning Serbian poet, playwright, and screenwriter. She has published seven poetry collections; her latest publication, Deca [Children], is a book-length poem published in 2021. Deca won the NIN Book of the Year Award, the Serbian equivalent of the Pulitzer Prize. Deca has been made into an opera in Belgrade, Serbia, and a play in Zagreb, Croatia. Her plays have been staged across Europe and in the United States. She has also written screenplays for film and TV, such as Patria , winner for Best Screenplay at the FEST International Film Festival. Milena Marković's poetry collections are Pas koji je pojo sunce (The Dog that Ate the Sun, 2001), Istina ima teranje (Truth in Heat, 2003), Crna kašika (Tin Spoon, 2007), Ptičje oko na tarabi (The Bird Eye on the Fence, 2009), Pre nego što sve počne da se vrti (Before Everything Started Spinning, 2011), Pesme za žive i mrtve (Poems for the Living and the Dead, 2014), and Deca (2021). Her plays have also been published in numerous editions. The latest edition is the two-volume Drame I and Drame 2 (Dramas I and Dramas II, 2022) that collect ten of her plays.