bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perturbed three-channel waveform synthesizer for efficient isolated attosecond pulse generation and characterization
Authors: Dong Dianhong , Wang Hushan , Xue Bing , Imasaka Kotaro , Kanda Natsuki , Fu Yuxi , Nabekawa Yasuo , Takahashi Eiji J.
Published: January 2025

We demonstrated a perturbed three-channel waveform synthesizer for efficient isolated attosecond pulse (IAP) generation and characterization at a low repetition rate of 10 Hz. Intense IAPs centered at photon energies of 60 eV (227 as duration) in argon and 107 eV (128 as duration) in neon were generated from an optimized three-channel waveform synthesizer. By introducing a perturbed pulse to the waveform synthesizer, the IAPs can be controlled and characterized rapidly in a few minutes, which is an all-optical method and enables fast feedback for the tunability of the IAP source. The peak power of the soft x-ray IAPs reached subgigawatts, which is higher than that reported in the literature. The work provides a method for efficient generation and characterization of IAPs, which is very helpful for applications in attosecond pump–probe experiments.
Investigation on SBS suppression in a kilowatt single-frequency-amplified Tm-fiber MOPA with distributed pumping
Authors: Ren Chuanyong , Han Yaocong , Luan Xinyu , Jiang Hao , Wang Fei , Wang Haotian , Shen Deyuan
Published: January 2025

In this Letter, we present a novel distributed pumping scheme (DPS) for effective stimulated Brillouin scattering (SBS) suppression in a kilowatt-level, single-frequency-amplified Tm-fiber master oscillator power amplifier (MOPA). Theoretical analysis of laser gain distribution and temperature variation along the cascaded hybrid active fiber in the DPS indicates enhanced power scalability. By incorporating distributed pumping and pseudo-random binary sequence (PRBS) phase modulation, an output power of 1025 W at 1998 nm was successfully achieved with a spectral linewidth of 480 MHz and signal-to-noise ratio of >46 dB. Further power scaling is primarily limited by high-intensity self-pulses originating from the spectral spikes. Over an ∼60 min time scale, the power stability (RMS) was measured to be approximately 0.48%. A diffraction-limited beam quality factor M2 is estimated to be ∼1.20. Additionally, the dynamic process of backward Stokes light generation under varying phase modulation conditions was revealed. The concept presented herein paves a new pathway for the generation of kilowatt-level single-frequency laser sources across a broad spectral region.
Silicon modulator exceeding 110  GHz using tunable time-frequency equalization
Authors: Yue Hengsong , Fu Jianbin , Zhang Hengwei , Xiong Bo , Pan Shilong , Chu Tao
Published: January 2025

Silicon modulators have garnered considerable attention owing to their potential applications in high-density integration and high-speed modulation. However, they are increasingly challenged by the limited 3 dB bandwidth as the demand for modulation speed in optical communications continues to rise, impeding their ability to compete with modulators made of thin-film lithium niobate. This bandwidth limitation arises because of the parasitic resistance and capacitance in the PN junction of the silicon modulators. This study demonstrates a silicon modulator exceeding 110 GHz without any resonant structure using a tunable time-frequency equalization technique. The modulator operates with a half-wave voltage of 54 V, effectively balancing the trade-off between bandwidth and half-wave voltage. This substantial breakthrough enables on–off keying modulation at a rate of 140 Gbaud without digital signal processing. These accomplishments represent, to our knowledge, the highest bandwidth and maximum baud rate achieved without digital signal processing in an all-silicon modulator, reaching the testing limitations of the experimental system. This opens the possibility of attaining modulation rates of up to 200 or even 300 Gbaud by adopting design strategies such as slow light and technologies such as digital signal processing. This advancement extends the speed capabilities of silicon modulators to the level of thin-film lithium niobate modulators, thereby promoting their application in the broader array of fields, such as linear-drive pluggable transceivers.
Cost-benefit tradeoff mediates the transition from rule-based to memory-based processing during practice
Authors: Yang Guochun , Jiang Jiefeng
Published: January 2025

Practice not only improves task performance but also changes task execution from rule- to memory-based processing by incorporating experiences from practice. However, how and when this change occurs is unclear. We test the hypothesis that strategy transitions in task learning can result from decision-making guided by cost-benefit analysis. Participants learn 2 task sequences and are then queried about the task type at a cued sequence and position. Behavioral improvement with practice can be accounted for by a computational model implementing cost-benefit analysis and the model-predicted strategy transition points align with the observed behavioral slowing. Model comparisons using behavioral data show that strategy transitions are better explained by a cost-benefit analysis across alternative strategies rather than solely on memory strength. Model-guided fMRI findings suggest that the brain encodes a decision variable reflecting the cost-benefit analysis and that different strategy representations are double-dissociated. Further analyses reveal that strategy transitions are associated with activation patterns in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and increased pattern separation in the ventromedial prefrontal cortex. Together, these findings support cost-benefit analysis as a mechanism of practice-induced strategy shift.
Physiology-informed regularisation enables training of universal differential equation systems for biological applications
Authors: de Rooij Max , Erdős Balázs , van Riel Natal A. W. , O’Donovan Shauna D.
Published: January 2025

Systems biology tackles the challenge of understanding the high complexity in the internal regulation of homeostasis in the human body through mathematical modelling. These models can aid in the discovery of disease mechanisms and potential drug targets. However, on one hand the development and validation of knowledge-based mechanistic models is time-consuming and does not scale well with increasing features in medical data. On the other hand, data-driven approaches such as machine learning models require large volumes of data to produce generalisable models. The integration of neural networks and mechanistic models, forming universal differential equation (UDE) models, enables the automated learning of unknown model terms with less data than neural networks alone. Nevertheless, estimating parameters for these hybrid models remains difficult with sparse data and limited sampling durations that are common in biological applications. In this work, we propose the use of physiology-informed regularisation, penalising biologically implausible model behavior to guide the UDE towards more physiologically plausible regions of the solution space. In a simulation study we show that physiology-informed regularisation not only results in a more accurate forecasting of model behaviour, but also supports training with less data. We also applied this technique to learn a representation of the rate of glucose appearance in the glucose minimal model using meal response data measured in healthy people. In that case, the inclusion of regularisation reduces variability between UDE-embedded neural networks that were trained from different initial parameter guesses.
A comparison of CXR-CAD software to radiologists in identifying COVID-19 in individuals evaluated for Sars CoV-2 infection in Malawi and Zambia
Authors: Linsen Sam , Kamoun Aurélie , Gunda Andrews , Mwenifumbo Tamara , Chavula Chancy , Nchimunya Lindiwe , Tsai Yucheng , Mulenga Namwaka , Kadewele Godfrey , Kajombo Eunice Nahache , Sunkutu Veronica , Shawa Jane , Kadam Rigveda , Arentz Matthew
Published: January 2025

AI based software, including computer aided detection software for chest radiographs (CXR-CAD), was developed during the pandemic to improve COVID-19 case finding and triage. In high burden TB countries, the use of highly portable CXR and computer aided detection software has been adopted more broadly to improve the screening and triage of individuals for TB, but there is little evidence in these settings regarding COVID-19 CAD performance. We performed a multicenter, retrospective cross-over study evaluating CXRs from individuals at risk for COVID-19. We evaluated performance of CAD software and radiologists in comparison to COVID-19 laboratory results in 671 individuals evaluated for COVID-19 at sites in Zambia and Malawi between January 2021 and June 2022. All CXRs were interpreted by an expert radiologist and two commercially available COVID-19 CXR-CAD software. Radiologists interpreted CXRs for COVID-19 with a sensitivity of 73% (95% CI: 69%- 76%) and specificity of 49% (95% CI: 40%-58%). One CAD software (CAD2) showed performance in diagnosing COVID-19 that was comparable to that of radiologists, (AUC-ROC of 0.70 (95% CI: 0.65–0.75)), while a second (CAD1) showed inferior performance (AUC-ROC of 0.57 (95% CI: 0.52–0.63)). Agreement between CAD software and radiologists was moderate for diagnosing COVID-19, and agreement was very good in differentiating normal and abnormal CXRs in this high prevalent population. The study highlights the potential of CXR-CAD as a tool to support effective triage of individuals in Malawi and Zambia during the pandemic, particularly for distinguishing normal from abnormal CXRs. These findings suggest that while current AI-based diagnostics like CXR-CAD show promise, their effectiveness varies significantly. In order to better prepare for future pandemics, there is a need for representative training data to optimize performance in key populations, and ongoing data collection to maintain diagnostic accuracy, especially as new disease strains emerge.
Quality of life disparities among Mexican people with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Hernández-Ledesma Ana Laura , Martínez Domingo , Fajardo-Brigido Elizabeth , Román-López Talía V. , Nuñez-Reza Karen J. , Tapia-Atilano Andrea Y. , Vera del Valle Sandra V. , Domínguez-Zúñiga Donají , Tinajero-Nieto Lizbet , Peña-Ayala Angélica , Torres-Valdez Estefania , Frontana-Vázquez Gabriel , Gutiérrez-Arcelus María , Rosetti Florencia , Alcauter Sarael , Rentería Miguel E. , Ruiz-Contreras Alejandra E. , Alpízar-Rodríguez Deshiré , Medina-Rivera Alejandra
Published: January 2025

Higher prevalence and worst outcome have been reported among people with systemic lupus erythematosus with non-European ancestries, with both genetic and socioeconomic variables as contributing factors. In Mexico, studies assessing the inequities related to quality of life for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus patients remain sparse. This study aims to assess the inequities related to quality of life in a cohort of Mexican people with SLE. This study included 942 individuals with SLE from the Mexican Lupus Registry (LupusRGMX) and two healthy control groups. Self-answered surveys were collected via the Research Electronic Data Capture platform between May 2021 and January 2023. Data was analyzed as a cross-sectional study. A random forest model was implemented to assess potential predictive variables. Permutation tests were performed to analyze the effect health providers had on diagnosis lag and quality of life’s differences among socioeconomic levels. Partial correlation analysis between the number of patients and rheumatologists registered was also performed. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus participants had significantly lower quality of life than healthy people (p-values < 0.0001). Socioeconomic status, delay in diagnosis, and corticosteroid consumption were the factors that influenced QoL the most (RMSE = 9.53 with the importance variable validated); lower quality of life was associated with lower socioeconomic status (p-value < 0.0001). Disparities in health services were reflected in longer diagnosis time among people with public health providers (p-value = 0.0419). A significant association between diagnosed patients and available rheumatologists by geographical state was observed (ρ = 0.4, p-value = 0.0259), which can be translated into restricted access to specialists. Since most of our cohort exhibited low socioeconomic status, it is important to consider them as a vulnerable population; this study settles the necessity to deepen the effects of the socioeconomic disparities, allowing to design public policies and strategies aimed to reduce Systemic Lupus Erythematosus disparities, therefore improving quality of life of Mexican people with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus.
Burden of diabetic ketoacidosis and its predictors among diabetic patients in Ethiopia: Systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Feleke Sefineh Fenta , Dessie Anteneh Mengist , Getachew Zenebe Daniel , Bizuneh Fasikaw Kebede , Kidie Atitegeb Abera , Yayeh Berihun Mulu , Ayal Birtukan Gizachew , Tesfa Natnael Amare
Published: January 2025

Background

Multiple studies across Ethiopia have investigated the occurrence of DKA, showing significant variations and conflicting findings. This systematic review and meta-analysis seek to consolidate the overall prevalence of diabetic ketoacidosis and its associated factors in the Ethiopian context.

Methods

The study adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis Protocols (PRISMA-P) guidelines. Data was collected from PubMed/MEDLINE, Science direct, Google Scholar, and gray literature sources. Microsoft Excel was used for data extraction and summary, while the analysis was performed with R software version 4.3.2. The overall pooled prevalence of diabetic ketoacidosis and its components was estimated using a random effects model. Publication bias was assessed both graphically, using funnel plots, and statistically, with tests such as Egger’s regression test. Subgroup analysis were carried out to minimize random variations in the estimates from the primary studies.

Result

The pooled estimated prevalence of diabetic ketoacidosis among diabetic patients in Ethiopia was 46% (95% CI; 36, 57; I2 = 100%, P≤0.001). Medication discontinuations (AOR = 1.30, 95 CI 1.20, 1.64), presence of comorbidity (AOR = 1.53, 95 CI 1.10, 2.20) and presence of infection (AOR = 1.62, 95 CI 1.31, 1.98) had an association with diabetic ketoacidosis among diabetic patients.

Conclusions

Medication discontinuations, comorbidity, and infection are individual contributors to diabetic ketoacidosis in diabetic patients. Implementing initiatives to enhance medication adherence and establish comprehensive diabetes management programs covering glycemic control, comorbidities, and infection management can effectively address these factors.
White matter lesions and DTI metrics related to various types of dysfunction in cerebral palsy: A meta-analysis and systematic review
Authors: Jiang Yu , Liu Gang , Deng Bowen , Li Xiaoye , Ren Jingpei , Zhao Yi , Hu Chuanyu , Xu Lin , Gao Feng , Mu Xiaohong
Published: January 2025

Background

Assessing various types of dysfunction in cerebral palsy is a key factor in the treatment and rehabilitation of patients. The objective of this study was to use meta-analysis and systematic review to identify the specific white matter lesions and DTI metrics strongly associated with various types of dysfunction in cerebral palsy.

Methods

We conducted a literature search of PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library and Web of Science databases to identify trials published that had evaluated the correlation between DTI metrics in sensorimotor pathways and function scores in cerebral palsy. Correlation coefficient (r) values were extracted for each study, and the extent of r was quantitatively explored. The remaining part of the study was analyzed qualitatively.

Results

46 studies involving 1458 children with cerebral palsy, were included. 19 articles for Meta-analysis and 27 articles were descriptively analyzed. DTI metrics such as FA、MD in both sensory and motor pathways significantly correlated with various function ratings. In overall motor dysfunction, compared with the CST and PTR, FA of the PLIC correlated more strongly with GMFCS, and showed no significant heterogeneity (r = -1.28, confidence interval [CI]-1.70 to -0.87,I2 = 38.2%,P = 0.233). In upper limb dysfunction, compared with the AHA and MA2, FA of the CST correlated more strongly with BBT, and showed no significant heterogeneity (r = -0.56, confidence interval [CI]-0.78 to -0.34,I2 = 0.0%,P = 0.511). Lower limb dysfunction and other dysfunctions we used qualitative analysis. The qualitative analysis offered a concise overview of each investigation.

Conclusions

This study basically identifies the specific white matter lesions corresponding to overall motor dysfunction, upper limb and lower limb motor deficits and other dysfunctions in patients with cerebral palsy, as well as the associated DTI metrics.
Impacts of continuing education on Primary Health Care professionals—A scoping review protocol
Authors: Pereira Laianny Krizia Maia , Adailton da Silva José , Valentim Ricardo A. de M. , Lima Thaísa G. F. M. S. , Junior Nésio Fernandes de M. , Caitano Alexandre R. , Rosendo Tatyana Souza
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Continuing Health Education is a strategy that integrates learning into the work process to transform health practices. Primary health care has proved to be a powerful space for consolidating continuing education, as it promotes reflection and learning based on the local singularities of the territory. Continuing health education is an important strategy for transforming the reality of Primary health care, reinventing work, and consequently changing practices.

Objective

This study aimed to identify and analyze the evidence regarding the impact of continuing education for health professionals in Primary Health Care in Brazil.

Method

This scoping review protocol that will be developed based on the Joanna Briggs Institute manual and guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). The databases included in the study will be MEDLINE/Pubmed, Scielo, Lilacs, EMBASE, and Web of Science. Google Scholar will be used as gray literature. Studies published between 2007 and 2024 will be included, and no language restrictions will be applied. The Rayyan management software will be used as a tool to support the selection of studies. Two independent researchers will carry out a paired review to ensure the relevance of the studies. The studies will be analyzed descriptively, which will be guided by the categorization of results into three large groups: a) thematic areas covered; b) methodologies used; c) work process indicators and/or health results.

Discussion

Relevant aspects will be pointed out and interrelated in narrative form with the existing literature on the subject. Through the preparation of this protocol, it is aimed to identify to identify studies with evidence on the impact of continuing education in Primary Health Care in Brazil. This review could support the formulation of new professional training policies for PHC, contributing to the improvement of professional practices and the organization of work based on the needs of each territory.
Tuberculosis treatment outcomes and associated factors among patients treated at Bosaso TB Hospital, Bosaso, Somalia: A five-year retrospective study
Authors: Jama Saaid Said , Abdi Mohamed Mohamud
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Tuberculosis remains a major public health problem, primarily in low- and middle-income countries. Evaluating treatment outcomes and investigating factors associated with them are essential for the treatment and control of tuberculosis. Hence, this study aims to assess the TB treatment outcomes and associated factors in Bosaso, Puntland, Somalia.

Methods

A 5-year facility-based retrospective study was conducted at Bosaso TB Hospital, from January 2018 to December 2022. A total of 2213 TB patients were included in this study. Demographic, clinical characteristics and treatment outcome data were gathered from the TB register using a structured checklist. Data were entered, cleaned, and analyzed using SPSS version 20. Descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression analysis were employed. A P-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

The overall successful treatment rate was 88.5%. The TB treatment success rate over the last three years was comparable to the global target of the End TB strategy of ≥ 90% by 2025. Patients aged 21–40 years (AOR = 0.59, 95% Cl = 0.41–0.84, p = 0.004), 41–60 years (AOR = 0.37, 95% CI = 0.25–0.55, p < 0.001), and ≥ 61 years (AOR = 0.37, 95% CI = 0.22–0.64, p < 0.001) were less likely to achieve successful treatment outcomes. Being HIV-positive (AOR = 0.41, 95% Cl = 0.21–0.79, p = 0.008) was less likely to be associated with a successful treatment outcome.

Conclusion

In this study, the TB treatment success rate over the last three years was comparable to the global target of the End-TB strategy of ≥ 90% by 2025. Therefore, we recommend strengthening the TB care system, conducting regular supportive supervision for TB facilities, implementing strategies to encourage drug adherence, strengthening mechanisms to minimize the anti-TB treatment default rate, improving counseling services, and giving more attention to the vulnerable age groups and HIV-positive patients.
Physical demands and physiological response of soccer referees in high-level matches: A systematic review
Authors: Zhang Lingling , Geok Soh Kim , Wazir Mohd Rozilee Wazir Norjali , Qin Liang
Published: January 2025

Background

The match physical demands placed on soccer referees are intrinsically connected to their capacity to make accurate judgments, becoming the second most studied theme in associate soccer refereeing.

Objective

This study aims to review the external and internal load performed by soccer referees in high-level competitions, to identify changes in these indicators over different periods as the competition progresses, and to analyze the standards for dividing speed zones and heart rate zones.

Methods

Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, and EBSCOhost were thoroughly searched. Grey literature sources and Google Scholar were also consulted, with a focus on analysing and comparing the physical demands of soccer referees at different phases of high-level matches.

Results

A total of 14 manuscripts were included in this review. Studies revealed that the total distance (TD) covered by referees during a full match ranged from 9 to 12 km. High-intensity running (HIR) constituted 2.0–18.7% of TD, accounting for approximately 38% of total time (TT). Referees reached 80–100% of their maximal heart rate during matches. The standards for dividing speed zones and heart rate zones varied among the selected studies.

Discussion

This systematic review aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of referees’ physical demands (e.g., TD, HIR, and HR) to offer practitioners valuable biological data for training and competition preparation. The lack of uniform criteria for dividing speed and heart rate zones limits data collection, thereby affecting the reporting of distances covered at different exercise intensities.
Multi-scenario land use change simulation and spatial-temporal evolution of carbon storage in the Yangtze River Delta region based on the PLUS-InVEST model
Authors: Zhou Jingru , Johnson Verner Carl , Shi Jingchao , Tan Mou Leong , Zhang Fei
Published: January 2025

Influenced by urban expansion, population growth, and various socio-economic activities, land use in the Yangtze River Delta (YRD) area has undergone prominent changes. Modifications in land use have resulted in adjustments to ecological structures, leading to subsequent fluctuations in carbon storage. This study focuses on YRD region and analyzes the characteristics of land use changes in the area using land use data from 2000 to 2020, with a 10-year interval. Utilizing InVEST Model’s Carbon Storage module in combination with PLUS model (patch-generating land use simulation), we simulated and projected future land use patterns and carbon storage across YRD region under five scenarios including natural development (ND), urban development (UD), ecological protection (EP), cropland protection (CP), and balanced development (BD). Upon comparing carbon storage levels predicted for 2030 under the five scenarios with those in 2020, carbon stocks decrease in the initial four scenarios and then increase in the fifth scenario. In the initial four declining scenarios, CP scenario had the least reduction in carbon storage, followed by EP scenario. The implementation of policies aimed at safeguarding cropland and preserving ecological integrity can efficaciously curtail the expansion of developed land into woodland and cropland, enhance the structure of land use, and mitigate the loss of carbon storage.
Class-specific school closures for seasonal influenza: Optimizing timing and duration to prevent disease spread and minimize educational losses
Authors: Masumoto Yukiko , Kawasaki Hiromi , Matsuyama Ryota , Tsunematsu Miwako , Kakehashi Masayuki
Published: January 2025

School closures are a safe and important strategy for preventing infectious diseases in schools. However, the effects of school closures have not been fully demonstrated, and prolonged school closures have a negative impact on students and communities. This study evaluated class-specific school closure strategies to prevent the spread of seasonal influenza and determine the optimal timing and duration. We constructed a new model to describe the incidence of influenza in each class based on a stochastic susceptible-exposed-infected-removed model. We collected data on the number of infected absentees and class-specific school closures due to influenza from four high schools and the number of infected cases from the community in a Japanese city over three seasons (2016–2017, 2017–2018, and 2018–2019). The parameters included in the model were estimated using epidemic data. We evaluated the effects of class-specific school closures by measuring the reduced cumulative incidence of class closures per day. The greatest reduction in the cumulative absences per day was observed in the four-day class closure. When class-specific school closures lasted for four days, the reduction in the cumulative number of infections per class closure day was greater when the closure was timed earlier. The highest reduction in the number of class closures per person-day occurred when the threshold was around 5.0%. Large variations in the reduction of cumulative incidence were noted owing to stochastic factors. Reactive, class-specific school closures for seasonal influenza were most efficient when the percentage of newly infected students exceeded around 5.0%, with a closure duration of four days. The optimal strategy of class-specific school closure provides good long-term performance but may be affected by random variations.
Hydraulic performance of a pre-aerated stilling basin: Experimental study
Authors: Zhou Yu , Huang Tengzhi , Xu Ke , Mei Jiakai , Jia Siwei , Yu Qiaoni , Qian Jinglin
Published: January 2025

Spillway chutes are critical in dam flood control, particularly in high dams where high water heads and large discharge in narrow canyons amplify the demand for safe discharging. For large unit discharges in spillways, aeration protection is essential to prevent cavitation erosion, but challenges arise from air duct choking in the traditional spillway and nonaerated regions in the stepped spillway. This paper introduces a novel spillway called the pre-aerated stilling basin spillway (PSBS). The primary distinction between PSBS and conventional spillways lies in the placement of aeration facilities. Conventional spillways feature a curved transition section that directly connects to the spillway. In contrast, the PSBS is equipped with a WES crest weir and a vertical sill of the same width, which converts supercritical to subcritical flow. This process strongly entrains air through hydraulic jumps at spillway entrances, thereby preventing cavitation damage. The study aims to experimentally investigate the flow regime, energy dissipation within the PSB, and the near-wall air concentration to ensure effective mitigation of cavitation damage downstream. The findings highlight the impact of the PSB on changing the jump type and relative local energy loss, influenced by the incoming Froude number, sill height, and sill length. Influenced by these factors, the variation in air concentration is crucial for reducing cavitation damage, necessitating potential adjustments in prototype applications to account for scale effects. Under such a pre-aeration approach, the air concentration along the downstream spillway warrants further investigation for the continuous optimization of the PSB’s design and its integration with spillways.
Malaria: Factors affecting disease severity, immune evasion mechanisms, and reversal of immune inhibition to enhance vaccine efficacy
Authors: Su Xin-zhuan , Xu Fangzheng , Stadler Rachel V. , Teklemichael Awet Alem , Wu Jian
Published: January 2025

Malaria is a complex parasitic disease caused by species of Plasmodium parasites. Infection with the parasites can lead to a spectrum of symptoms and disease severity, influenced by various parasite, host, and environmental factors. There have been some successes in developing vaccines against the disease recently, but the vaccine efficacies require improvement. Some issues associated with the difficulties in developing a sterile vaccine include high antigenic diversity, switching expression of the immune targets, and inhibition of immune pathways. Current vaccine research focuses on identifying conserved and protective epitopes, developing multivalent vaccines (including the whole parasite), and using more powerful adjuvants. However, overcoming the systematic immune inhibition and immune cell dysfunction/exhaustion may be required before high titers of protective antibodies can be achieved. Increased expression of surface molecules such as CD86 and MHC II on antigen-presenting cells and blocking immune checkpoint pathways (interactions of PD-1 and PD-L1; CTLA-4 and CD80) using small molecules could be a promising approach for enhancing vaccine efficacy. This assay reviews the factors affecting the disease severity, the genetics of host–parasite interaction, immune evasion mechanisms, and approaches potentially to improve host immune response for vaccine development.
Atypical memory B cells from natural malaria infection produced broadly neutralizing antibodies against Plasmodium vivax variants
Authors: Kochayoo Piyawan , Moriyama Saya , Kotaki Ryutaro , Thawornpan Pongsakorn , Malee Chayapat , Leepiyasakulchai Chaniya , Ntumngia Francis Babila , Adams John H. , Takahashi Yoshimasa , Chootong Patchanee
Published: January 2025

Expansion of atypical memory B cells (aMBCs) was demonstrated in malaria-exposed individuals. To date, the generation of P. vivax-specific aMBCs and their function in protective humoral immune responses is unknown. Here, P. vivax Duffy Binding Protein II (PvDBPII) probes were generated to detect the development and durability of specific aMBCs, and to demonstrate the capacity of these cells to produce neutralizing antibodies following natural infections. PvDBPII-specific aMBCs were elicited during malaria illness, and they persisted through the recovery phase of infections. To address biology and function of P. vivax-specific aMBCs in producing protective antibodies, a single MBC was cultured, and the secreted IgG was tested for binding and inhibition activity. The aMBC-derived clones produced antibodies with variable levels of anti-PvDBPII IgG in cultures, and some produced high antibody levels comparable to classical MBC clones. Thus, we focused our attention on the function of aMBCs in producing neutralizing antibodies. Among the aMBC clones, A1F12 and B4E11 produced broadly neutralizing antibodies against a panel of PvDBPII variants. Notably, B cell receptors (BCRs) of PvDBPII-specific aMBCs expressed unique IGHV genes, with similar usage of IGHV1-3, comparable to classical MBCs. The somatic hypermutation (SHM) rate and CDR3 length of VH and Vκ in these two MBC subsets were not significantly different. Together, our findings revealed that P. vivax infections elicited the development and persistence of P. vivax-specific aMBCs. The accumulation of aMBCs during and following infections might play an important role in producing protective antibodies against malaria.
Passages within a marriage
Authors: Johnson M. Sellers
Published: January 2025

American filmmaker Ira Sachs has long shown an impassioned commitment to both Queer and familial drama. His eighth feature, Passages (2023), presents Sachs in top form as he nimbly addresses the quiet exchanges, hushed ambiguities and seismic changes that can affect married life. In the following interview, Sachs sheds light on his directorial perspective, aesthetics of performance and his influences as a director. The conversation, herein, relays a thoughtful filmmaker taking in inspirations and, in turn, inspiring great works of his own.
Women and Migration in Contemporary Italian Cinema: Screening Hospitality, Giovanna Faleschini Lerner (2023)
Authors: Benini Stefania
Published: January 2025

Review of: Women and Migration in Contemporary Italian Cinema: Screening Hospitality, Giovanna Faleschini Lerner (2023)

Liverpool: Liverpool University Press, 216 pp.,

ISBN 978-1-80207-721-6, h/bk, $130.00
PACER Plus Implementation: A Development Opportunity for Commonwealth FICs
Authors: Zhuawu Collin
Published: January 2025

The potential for trade-led sustainable development in most Forum Island Countries (FICs) in the Pacific remains largely untapped. These countries experience several challenges to trade, such as a lack of economies of scale, low levels of foreign direct investment (FDI), inadequate and under developed infrastructure, high costs of doing business and a host of other supply-side contraints. Recent changes in the global economic and trading landscape, including growing trade tensions and protectionism, growth in mega regional trade arrangements, and the rapid advancement in technology have created an additional layer of challenges, producing further impediments for these countries to trade.

This paper provides an analysis of the possible opportunities for FICs presented by the PACER Plus Agreement and argues for the implementation of the Agreement for FICs to take advantage of these benefits.
Pszichoszociális fogyatékossággal élők felépülése
Authors: Szabó Péter , Piczil Márta
Published: January 2025

Jelen tanulmányunkban arra vállalkozunk, hogy
megvizsgáljuk, mely tényezők játszanak szerepet a pszichiátriai
betegek felépülésében. A Liberman-féle felépülési modell
bemutatása és elemeinek kibontása által megalapozzuk a vizsgálati
szempontokat. A felépülési folyamatok megfigyelésére a
pszichiátriai betegek nappali intézményét láttuk
legalkalmasabbnak, mivel közösségi alapú szolgáltatást nyújt,
valamint rendelkezésre állnak az ellátottak kórtörténeti
dokumentációi és megismerhetők az élettörténeti események és azok
érintettek általi szubjektív értékelései is. Konkrét esetek
bemutatásával, az érintettek élettörténetének megismerésével
rekonstruálni kívánjuk a folyamatot, végső soron pedig értékeljük
a felépülési folyamat sikerességét.
A szülők kultúraátadó szerepének változásai, és azok hatása
napjainkban
Authors: Tőke Anita
Published: January 2025

Pedagógusként és szülőként is foglalkoztat a média, a
digitalizáció a gyermek tevékenységében. Ezért célom, hogy
szakirodalmi betekintést nyerjek a gyermekek, a társadalom, a
média és a digitalizációs szokások jelenlegi állapotába. A
gyermekek generációs szokásainak a feltérképezésével
szocializációs szerepükkel való kapcsolatukat tekintem át. Távlati
célom feltárni és megvizsgálni a szülők és a gyermekek
szempontjából az internet- és médiafogyasztási folyamatokat.
Meggyőződésem, hogy gyermekeink oktatását és nevelését akkor
végezhetjük sikereseb, ha pontosan ismerjük a média életükre,
tudásukra, személyiségükre, szocializációs folyamataikra gyakorolt
hatását. Ezen folyamatok pontos ismerete és értékelése
segítségével alakítható ki produktív együttműködés pedagógus és
szülő között a gyermekek érdekében.
A szociálpedagógus mint segítő szakember szerepe az
együttnevelés során
Authors: Gál Anikó
Published: January 2025

A tanulmányban a hazai integrált-inkluzív iskolai
nevelés-oktatás kérdéskörét érintem. A téma szempontjából
bemutatom a fontosabb alapfogalmakat, az eredményes együttnevelés
feltételeit. A tanulmány fókuszában a szociális segítő
nevelési-oktatási intézményekben betöltött szerepköre áll, ahol a
különböző célcsoportokra vonatkozóan számos feladatot láthat el.
Mivel munkája komplex és sokrétű feladatkört foglal magában, ezért
a hatékony és eredményes munkavégzés szempontjából elengedhetetlen
az intézmény munkatársaival, a társszakmákkal (pl.
iskolapszichológus, szociológus, gyógypedagógus stb.) való
folyamatos, kölcsönös együttműködés. Így a szakmai együttműködés
szempontjából a tanulmány rámutat a szakmai kompetenciahatárok
ismeretének fontosságára, hangsúlyozva az interprofesszionalitás
jelentőségét.
Some Tridiagonal Matrix of the Repunit Sequence
Authors: Costa Eudes Antonio , Santos Douglas Catulio dos , Catarino Paula Maria Machado Cruz
Published: January 2025

This paper explores the connection between tridiagonal matrices and the repunit sequence, which is a type of Horadam sequence, and aims to establish new representations of repunit sequences using distinct tridiagonal matrices and their determinants. Motivated by some work that relates tridiagonal matrices to second-order linear recurrences, we present another representation of the repunit sequence by tridiagonal matrices.
A influência de variáveis ambientais na distribuição de manguezais no Nordeste do Brasil
Authors: De Sá Ana Caroline Damasceno Souza , Pinheiro Lidriana
Published: January 2025

Esta pesquisa tem como objetivo espacializar os manguezais e correlacioná-los com variáveis ambientais, a fim de verificar se existe variação na distribuição dos bosques de mangue e apicum em áreas com diferentes padrões de precipitação e períodos de seca dentro de uma mesma região brasileira. Foram utilizadas imagens do satélite CBERS-4A e vetorização manual dos polígonos de bosques de mangues e apicuns no software QGIS v. 3.10.14, além de trabalhos de campo. A análise de Correlação de Pearson, realizada no software RStudio, considerou variáveis como precipitação, meses secos, espécies de mangue, fragmentação e tamanho da área. Os resultados indicam que a variação na precipitação e o número de meses secos têm uma forte influência na distribuição dos manguezais. Por exemplo, no estuário hipersalino Piranhas-Açu (RN), observou-se uma grande fragmentação dos bosques de mangue, com 1.379 polígonos mapeados em uma área de 2.396 ha, recebendo 500 mm de precipitação anual e 8 meses secos. Já nos estuários de Timonha (CE) e Itarema (CE), com 1.000 mm de chuva e 6 meses secos, foram identificados 131 e 118 polígonos, respectivamente, em 2.482 e 1.093 ha. Em contrapartida, o estuário do rio Mamanguape (PB), com a maior precipitação anual de 1.750 mm e apenas 3 meses secos, tem uma distribuição de 4.256 ha em 24 polígonos. Em relação aos apicuns, o Piranhas-Açu (RN) apresenta uma fragmentação de 674 polígonos em uma área de 4.858 ha e o estuário do rio Mamanguape (PB) seis polígonos mapeados em uma área de 2,4 ha. A pesquisa destaca os impactos de variáveis climáticas na distribuição dos manguezais, bem como a interferência antrópica no uso do solo devido a atividades econômicas e os efeitos negativos da fragmentação, ressaltando a importância da conservação e manejo adequado desses ecossistemas vitais.
Halal Industry and Science: Analysis of Epistemological Reasoning of Halal Center Institution UNEJ and Halal Assurance Institution UIN KHAS Jember Integration Interconnection Perspective
Authors: Syafiqi Ahmad Tamam , Nazar Muhnazar Arifin , Al-Asy'ari M. Khoirul Hadi
Published: January 2025

The halal industry has experienced significant growth, thus requiring a deeper understanding of the epistemological foundation of halal institutions, especially in Universitas Jember (UNEJ) and Universitas Islam Negeri Kiai Haji Achmad Siddiq (UIN KHAS) Jember. This analysis explores the integration and interconnection of halal science and its institutions, emphasizing the importance of the \textit{tawidik} paradigm in halal research and practice. The halal certification process, influenced by environmental pressures and institutional theory, highlights the need for effective management and adherence to Islamic principles in halal assurance practices. Furthermore, the philosophy of halal science, rooted in the Qur'an, underlines the need to align halal practices with Islamic values, ensuring that innovations in the halal sector do not compromise religiously bound principles. By examining the role of these institutions, this study aims to propose a framework for enhancing scientifically sound and spiritually aligned halal assurance, encouraging a holistic approach to halal industry development. There are two key questions in this study. First, what is the concept of halal industry and science in Indonesia? Second, how is the Analysis of Epistemological Reasoning of the Halal Center Institution of UNEJ and the Halal Assurance Institution of UIN Khas Jember from the Integration Interconnection Perspective? Using a qualitative research approach and observation, interview, and documentation methods to discuss the Epistemological Reasoning Analysis of the Halal Center Institution of UNEJ and the Halal Assurance Institution of UIN Khas Jember from the Integration Interconnection Perspective and the content analysis approach to explain the study of the concept of halal industry and science in Indonesia. So the results of this study are to find out the concept of halal industry and science in Indonesia and the second is the Epistemological Reasoning Analysis of the UNEJ Halal Center Institution of UNEJ and the Halal Assurance Institution of UIN Khas Jember from the Integration Interconnection Perspective.
Aktuální trendy a výzvy v oblasti právní úpravy odpovědnosti za jaderné škody v evropském kontextu
Authors: Handrlica Jakub
Published: January 2025

Currently, the legal framework for nuclear liability derives mainly from two major international treaties: The Paris Convention on Third Party Liability in the Field of Nuclear Energy, signed under the auspices of the Organization for European Economic Cooperation (OEEC) in 1960 and the Vienna Convention on Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage, that was signed under the auspices of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in 1963. Both the Paris Convention and the Vienna Convention, are governed by identical basic principles. These principles are strict (objective) liability, congruence between liability and coverage, channelling of liability exclusively onto the operator, very restricted exonerations, non-discrimination of victims, and exklusive jurisdiction of the courts of one country. So, if we would like to analyse the situation with nuclear liability in the European Union, we can define this as a “patchwork”. Before 2004 enlargement, the EU member states, with exception of Austria, Ireland and Luxembourg, were parties to the Paris Convention and most of them also to the Brussels Conventions. During the 2004 and 2008 enlargements, mainly Vienna Convention signatories entered the Union. While all of these Vienna Convention states are also parties the 1988 Joint Protocol, only 8 of the Paris Convention states adhere to this instrument which creates a “bridge” between the Paris and the Vienna Conventions. Slovenia originally was a Vienna State but in 2001 signed the Paris Convention and terminated the Vienna Convention.
Optimization of gamma irradiation doses (60Co) for mutagenesis in strawberry (Fragaria × annanasa Duch) cv. Winter Dawn
Authors: Rodge Rahul R , Rajan Rajni , Pandey Kuldeep , Kaur Harjinder , Jabroot Khan , Chaudhuri Madhurima , Sharma Jyoti , Sharma Sunny , Patil Nirmal , Wagh A M , Bhosale D N , Karadak S M
Published: January 2025

Strawberry, a vegetatively propagated crop, exhibits limited genetic variation, which constrains its adaptability and improvement potential. Gamma-ray radiation is a promising approach for enhancing genetic diversity and improving strawberries. Strawberry runners of the Winter Dawn cultivar were irradiated using 60Co, with doses ranging from 20 Gy to 40 Gy administered at a consistent rate of 1.52 Gy per minute to evaluate mutagenic effects. The survival effects in gamma irradiation-treated runners were recorded at 30 days after transplantation. An LD50 analysis was conducted to assess physiological impacts, and the lethal dose value was found to be 40 Gy, resulting in 50% mortality. Distinct differences in survival rates were observed between treated and untreated runners, with the highest survival rate (88%) at 20 Gy. The 30 Gy dose-treated runners exhibited the highest growth parameters, including crown diameter (14.32 mm), primary root length (29.50 cm), secondary root length (5.5 cm), and number of roots (39.6). Among fruit quality traits, maximum fruit length (39.84 mm), and fruit diameter (27.80 mm) were observed in runners treated with a 30 Gy gamma irradiation dose. Significant variations in survival, growth, and fruit quality were observed across different gamma irradiation doses. These findings provide a foundation for future efforts to develop potential strawberry mutants with improved traits through gamma irradiation. These findings provide a foundation for future efforts to develop potential strawberry mutants with improved traits through gamma irradiation.
Correcting unfolded helix in a 22-year-old male patient: a case report
Authors: Ahn Si hyun , Park Hojin
Published: January 2025

An unfolded helix is an auricular deformity that has garnered relatively little research focus. This study introduces a surgical technique designed to correct flat helix deformities. A 22-year-old male with bilateral unfolded helixes and prominent ears underwent this procedure under local anesthesia. The surgery employed a posterior auricular approach, with incisions extending from the upper pole of the ear to the concha. Along the helical rim, four radiating incisions were made, followed by oblique cuts in the cartilage and the creation of triangular flaps through advancement. The free edges of the cartilage were then overlapped and sutured together. Post-surgery, the patient experienced a successful recovery, evidenced by the curling of the helix and the absence of complications. This surgical technique is not only effective for correcting unfolded helixes but can also be efficiently performed under local anesthesia.