bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pellin-Broca prism chirped-pulse optical parametric oscillator
Authors: Coto Miguel Morán , McCracken Richard A.
Published: October 2024

We present a Yb:fiber-pumped MgO:PPLN optical parametric oscillator which employs a ring cavity incorporating Pellin-Broca prism retroreflectors. Pumped by chirped pulses centered at 1033 nm, the signal wavelength is tunable over 380 nm (1541 nm to 1921 nm), with a maximum output power of 647 mW and a pump-signal conversion efficiency of 33.3 . The signal temporal profiles were measured via second-harmonic FROG revealing a FWHM of 317 fs. With a cumulative RIN standard deviation of ∼0.18 , this system further highlights the benefits of intracavity folding prisms in the construction of highly stable ultrafast OPOs.
Advanced DL-based Image Processing for φ-OTDR-based Road-traffic Parameter Estimation
Authors: Colares Robson , Mello Darli , Rittner Leticia , Conforti Evandro
Published: October 2024

We apply vision transformers (ViTs) in a distributed fiber optic sensing system to evaluate road traffic parameters in smart cities. Convolutional neural networks (CNN) are also assessed for benchmarking. The experimental setup is based on a direct-detection phase-sensitive optical time-domain reflectometer implemented using a narrow linewidth source. The monitored fibers are buried in the university campus, creating a smart city environment. Backscattered traces are consolidated into space-time matrices, illustrating traffic patterns and enabling analysis through image processing algorithms. The ground truth is established by traffic parameters obtained by processing video camera images monitoring the
same street using the YOLOv8 model. The results indicate that ViTs outperform CNNs for estimating the number of vehicles and the mean vehicle speed. While the ViT necessitates a significantly larger number of parameters, its complexity is similar to that of the CNN when considering multiply-accumulate operations and random access memory usage. The processed dataset has been made publicly available for benchmarking.
The association between adverse childhood experiences and mental health, behaviour, and educational performance in adolescence: A systematic scoping review
Authors: Lam Natalie , Fairweather Sophie , Lewer Dan , Prescott Matthew , Undugoda Priyanjan , Dickerson Josie , Gilbody Simon , Wadman Ruth
Published: October 2024

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are thought to have negative effects on mental health and well-being in adolescence. The definition of ACEs varies between studies, and their measurement is mainly based on questionnaires designed for adults to recall their childhood. This scoping review aimed to explore the research methods and findings from studies that quantitatively analysed the association between ACEs and mental health, behaviour, and educational performance in adolescence (ages 12–17). We sought to map and hypothesise the links or mechanisms between ACEs and these psychosocial outcomes by narrative synthesis of the methodologies and findings of the included studies, appraised with the Cambridge Quality Checklist. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and PsychINFO from 1998 to July 2023 for relevant studies. We identified twenty studies that measured twenty-seven “ACEs” during childhood (ages 0–17), including abuse, neglect, household dysfunction, bullying, and other adversities. The definition of and measurement tools for ACEs and the analysis techniques were heterogeneous. ACEs were commonly analysed as the exposure of interest with factors around the child and family as confounders. Statistical techniques included regression modelling, mediation analysis, structural equation modelling, and decision tree classification. Eighteen studies estimated the cumulative effects of ACEs, either as ACEs count/score or latent classes; and four studies estimated individual ACE effects. Cumulative ACEs and most individual ACEs were positively associated with increased probabilities of negative adolescent psychosocial outcomes. Measuring ACEs during childhood and the associated impacts on adolescents appeared feasible in longitudinal studies and surveys. Heterogeneous ACE classification, psychometric properties of measurement tools, and the ACE score analysis approach limit the comparability and interpretation of findings. Future studies into the prevention or effects of ACEs on adolescent well-being and development should address factors leading to ACEs or mitigating their impacts on adolescent psychosocial development, and use triangulation in the research of ACEs.
Bacillus thuringiensis Cry14A family proteins as novel anthelmintics against gastrointestinal nematode parasites
Authors: Hoang Duy , Flanagan Kelly , Ding Qian , Cazeault Nicholas R. , Li Hanchen , Díaz-Valerio Stefani , Rus Florentina , Darfour Esther A. , Kass Elizabeth , Petersson Katherine H. , Nielsen Martin K. , Liesegang Heiko , Ostroff Gary R. , Aroian Raffi V.
Published: October 2024

Bacillus thuringiensis crystal (Cry) proteins have been expressed in commercial transgenic crops for nearly 30 years, providing safe and effective control of insect pests and significantly reducing the application of hazardous chemical pesticides. B. thuringiensis crystal proteins have also been shown to target parasitic nematodes, including plant parasitic nematodes. Recently, transgenic soybean crops expressing Cry14Ab have been shown to provide control against the soybean cyst nematode Heterodera glycines, marking the first time a crystal protein is being commercialized in transgenic crops for control of a nematode pest. However, apart from H. glycines and the free-living nematode, Caenorhabditis elegans, the breadth of nematode activity of Cry14Ab, e.g., against gastrointestinal parasitic nematodes (GINs), has not been reported. Here we study the efficacy of Cry14Ab against a wide range of gastrointestinal nematode parasites (GINs) in vitro and in vivo. We find that Cry14Ab is effective in vitro against the barber’s pole worm Haemonchus contortus larvae, small strongyles cyathostomin larvae, the hookworm Ancylostoma ceylanicum adults, the roundworm Ascaris suum L4 larvae, and the whipworm Trichuris muris adults. In rodents infected with GIN parasites, Cry14Ab is effective as an in vivo anthelmintic against the hookworms A. ceylanicum and N. americanus, against the mouse parasite Heligmosomoides polygyrus bakeri, and against the roundworm A. suum. Cry14Ab also variably reduces the reproduction of the whipworm T. muris in vivo. Using optimized profile Markov Models, we looked for other putative anthelmintic Cry proteins and, within this list, identified a Bt crystal protein, GenBank accession no. MF893203, that we produced and demonstrated intoxicated GINs. This protein, with 90% amino acid identity to Cry14Ab, is active against C. elegans, A. ceylanicum adults, and A. suum L4 larvae in vitro. MF893203 was given the official designation of Cry14Ac. Cry14Ac is also an effective in vivo anthelmintic against A. ceylanicum hookworms in hamsters and intestinal A. suum in mice. Taken together, our results demonstrate that Cry14Ab and Cry14Ac have wide therapeutic utility against GINs.
Mental health issues and the association of mental health literacy among adolescents in urban Ethiopia
Authors: Hassen Hailemariam Mamo , Behera Manas Ranjan , Behera Deepanjali , Dehury Ranjit Kumar
Published: October 2024

Background

Epidemiological evidence about the prevalence of adolescent mental health issues and their association with mental health literacy is crucial for sustained mental health promotion strategies. Adolescence is a critical life stage for mental health promotion. However, evidence is not available among Ethiopian school adolescents. Hence, the present study examined the prevalence of adolescents’ mental health issues and their correlation with mental health literacy.

Materials and methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among adolescents (grades 5–12) in Dire Dawa city, Eastern Ethiopia using multistage random sampling. Data was collected using the Strength and Difficulty Questionnaire, WHO-5 well-being index, and mental health literacy questionnaire. SPSS version 25 was used for the descriptive, Chi-square, binary logistic regression, and correlation analyses.

Results

Between 14.0–24.5% of adolescents had reported mental health problems: internalizing problems (14.9–28.8%), emotional problems (10.4–25.5%), and peer relationship problems (17.8–25.5%). These mental health problems were significantly greater among adolescents who had either themselves or their family members used psychoactive substances (p≤0.05). Females from upper elementary (5–8 grade) and lower secondary (9–10) grade levels had a higher prevalence of mental health problems (AOR: 2.60 (0.95–7.10, p<0.05)). The effect of age, parental education, or employment status was insignificant (p>0.05). The prevalence of depression ranged from 18.0–25.5%. Mental health literacy was negatively correlated with total difficulties scores and positively associated with mental well-being scores (p<0.05).

Conclusion

The prevalence of adolescents’ mental health problems was higher. It implied that promoting mental health literacy could enhance adolescents’ positive mental health. Intervention programs should prioritize vulnerable groups and individuals reporting symptoms of mental health difficulties. Future studies should involve qualitative studies and consider effect of other determinants.
A multi-objective approach for timber harvest scheduling to include management of at-risk species and spatial configuration objectives
Authors: Jones Max D. , Larsen-Gray Angela , Prisley Stephen P. , Munro Holly L. , Hunter Elizabeth A.
Published: October 2024

Sustainable forestry typically involves integration of several economic and ecological objectives which, at times, may not be compatible with one another. Multi-objective prioritization via harvest scheduling programs can be used to elucidate these relationships and explore solutions. One such program is a spatially explicit harvest scheduler that adopts the Metropolis-Hastings algorithm to iteratively find management solutions to achieve multiple objectives (Habplan). Although this program has been used to address forest management scheduling and simulation-based tasks, its utility is constrained by time-intensive data preparation and challenges with incorporating spatial configuration objectives. To address these shortcomings, we introduce an open-source software package, HabplanR, streamlines data preparation, sets parameters, visualizes results, and assesses spatial components of ecological objectives. We developed four example objectives to incorporate into a multi-objective management problem: habitat quality indices for three species “types” (open, closed, and intermediate-canopy-associated species), and harvested pine pulpwood (revenue). We demonstrate the utility of this package to find management schedules that can accommodate potentially conflicting habitat needs of species, while achieving economic targets. We produced 100 software runs and prioritized individual objectives to select four management schedules for further comparisons. We compared outcome differences of the four schedules, including a spatial comparison of two high performing schedules. The software package makes costs and benefits of different schedules explicit and allows for consideration of the spatial configuration of management outcomes in decision-making.
Relative income within the household, gender norms, and well-being
Authors: Gihleb Rania , Giuntella Osea , Stella Luca
Published: October 2024

This study examines the effects of relative household income on individual well-being, mental health, and physical health in Germany. Consistent with previous studies, we document a dip in the distribution of households in which the wife out-earns the husband. Using a regression discontinuity design, we show that husbands in couples in which the wife earns just more exhibit lower satisfaction with life, work, and health, and report worse physical health. Women in these couples report lower satisfaction with life and health, and worse mental health. Results on life, work, and health satisfaction among women are more pronounced in West Germany, consistent with previous evidence of gender norm differences between East and West Germany.
Screening of phytoconstituents from Bacopa monnieri (L.) Pennell and Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC. to identify potential inhibitors against Cerebroside sulfotransferase
Authors: Singh Nivedita , Singh Anil Kumar
Published: October 2024

Cerebroside sulfotransferase (CST) is considered a target protein in developing substrate reduction therapy for metachromatic leukodystrophy. This study employed a multistep virtual screening approach for getting a specific and potent inhibitor against CST from 35 phytoconstituents of Bacopa monnieri (L.) Pennell and 31 phytoconstituents of Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC. from the IMPPAT 2.0 database. Using a binding score cutoff of -8.0 kcal/mol with ADME and toxicity screening, four phytoconstituents IMPHY009537 (Stigmastenol), IMPHY004141 (alpha-Amyrenyl acetate), IMPHY014836 (beta-Sitosterol), and IMPHY001534 (jujubogenin) were considered for in-depth analysis. In the binding pocket of CST, the major amino acid residues that decide the orientation and interaction of compounds are Lys85, His84, His141, Phe170, Tyr176, and Phe177. The molecular dynamics simulation with a 100ns time span further validated the stability and rigidity of the docked complexes of the four hits by exploring the structural deviation and compactness, hydrogen bond interaction, solvent accessible surface area, principal component analysis, and free energy landscape analysis. Stigmastenol from Bacopa monnieri with no potential cross targets was found to be the most potent and selective CST inhibitor followed by alpha-Amyrenyl acetate from Mucuna pruriens as the second-best performing inhibitor against CST. Our computational drug screening approach may contribute to the development of oral drugs against metachromatic leukodystrophy.
Exploration of the barriers and facilitators influencing use of telehealth for orthotic/prosthetic services in the United States of America: An orthotist/prosthetists perspective
Authors: Dillon Michael , Ridgewell Emily , Clarke Leigh , Bishop Katie , Kumar Saravana
Published: October 2024

Innovative models of healthcare, such as telehealth, are required to meet the growing demand for orthotic/prosthetic (O&P) services. While O&P users report being very satisfied with telehealth, many clinical facilities have reverted to in-person modes of care as COVID-19 restrictions have eased. As such, there is a disconnect between benefits of telehealth to O&P users, and the clinical services being delivered in-person. The aim of this study was to explore the orthotist/prosthetist’s perspective of the barriers and facilitators influencing use of telehealth in the United States of America (USA). O&P practitioners were recruited from across the USA. In-depth, semi-structured interviews were used to document practitioner demographics, the services being provided using telehealth, and practitioners’ perspective of the barriers and facilitators influencing use of telehealth. Data describing participant demographics and services were summarised. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis. 30 practitioners from across the USA participated. Telehealth was used to deliver a range of O&P services including: initial evaluations, routine follow-ups, and delivery of a device in rare circumstances. Barriers to using telehealth included: poor phone/internet connection and lack of access to technology. Facilitators to using telehealth included: a patient-focussed attitude, and recognition of the benefit of telehealth. Telehealth is being used across the entire spectrum of O&P care. Once the significant barriers were resolved, like access to reliable internet/phone reception, telehealth was feasible. An outstanding telehealth experience was facilitated by practitioners who focused on the benefits that telehealth can provide (not the limitations), as well as giving O&P users agency over the choice to use telehealth. There are opportunities to improve access to safe and effective O&P telehealth services by adopting a right-touch approach to practitioner regulation, and advocating for reimbursement that supports better systems and procedures within clinical facilities.
Facilitating the access to HIV testing at lower costs: “To the laboratory without prescription” (ALSO), a pilot intervention to expand HIV testing through medical laboratories in France
Authors: Champenois Karen , Sawras Victoire , Ngoh Pamela , Bouvet de la Maisonneuve Philippe , Valbousquet Julie , Annequin Margot , Gatseva Yoana , Michels David , Lydié Nathalie , Maguet Charlotte , Aïna Elodie , Le Hô Erwann , Plenel Eve , Touitou Irit , Deuffic-Burban Sylvie , Lert France , Pugliese Pascal ,   the ALSO group
Published: October 2024

Background

A pilot HIV testing programme, Au Labo sans Ordo (ALSO; “to the laboratory without prescription”) was implemented in two French Fast-Track Cities Initiative areas from 07/2019 to 12/2020. ALSO aimed to remove barriers to HIV testing by providing free testing with widespread access through all laboratories, extended opening hours, and no prescription requirements.

Objectives

Assessing the ALSO programme in terms of testing activity, user characteristics, and costs, compared to other HIV testing offers.

Methods

Laboratories and STI clinics reported the monthly numbers of tests performed and positive tests. Two short surveys were carried out 12 months apart in people who sought HIV testing. In each offer, the mean costs of HIV testing have been estimated according to negative or positive results using a microcosting approach.

Results

During the study period, 214/264 laboratories reported performing 38,941 ALSO tests that accounted for 7.2% of laboratory HIV testing activity. Positivity rates of ALSO and prescribed tests were similar (2.2/1000) but lower than that in STI clinics (6.0/1000). Heterosexual men, and individuals with multiple sexual partners, poor health insurance and few visits to GPs were more likely to use the ALSO offer than tests upon prescription. Compared to ALSO, STI clinic users were younger, more exposed to HIV and with a less favourable socio-economic situation. ALSO had low costs: €13 for a negative test, €163 for a positive test and €5,388 to identify an HIV-positive person (versus €9,068 in STI clinics and €20,126 with prescribed tests).

Conclusion

ALSO has attracted users less likely to visit STI clinics or to seek a prescribed test, particularly heterosexual men. Activities, user profiles and costs suggested the complementarity of the HIV testing offers and the relevance of making them coexist. French health authorities have decided to maintain and expand this programme to complement existing HIV testing offers.
Critical appraisal of evidence supporting prescription of psychedelics from clinic websites in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Kim Kyurim , Yusuf Abban , Sud Abhimanyu , Persaud Nav , Kirubarajan Abirami , Moller Monique , Lloyd Taryn , O’Neill Braden
Published: October 2024

Psychedelics, including ketamine, 3,4-Methyl enedioxy methamphetamine (MDMA), and psilocybin, have gained attention for their potential therapeutic role in mental health treatment. While recreational use is prohibited in Canada, medicinal exemptions can be granted. There are several psychedelic clinics in Ontario, Canada, promoting the use of psychedelics for a variety of medical indications. Our objective was to identify the indications for which psychedelics are being prescribed in Ontario clinics and assess the quality of evidence used to support these claims. Internet searches were conducted using Google and Bing to identify psychedelic clinics in Ontario. Inclusion criteria was as follow: clinics were physically located in Ontario, had a functioning website link, and demonstrated involvement of a licensed physician or nurse practitioner. Identified clinics were evaluated for their claims of effectiveness, the quality of evidence used to support these claims, and statements on psychedelic-related harms. The cited studies were appraised for quality using Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine Levels of Evidence, “level 5” being the lowest quality and “level 1” being the highest quality. Out of 200 search results, 10 psychedelic clinic websites met our inclusion criteria. These clinics advertised psychedelics for 47 medical conditions, most commonly for depression. Only 2 out of 10 clinics described potential risks associated with psychedelic use. There were 29 studies cited by these websites, majority coming from “level 4” evidence consisting of case-series and case-control studies. Overall, the cited evidence quality was low to moderate. Psychedelic clinics in Ontario promote a wide range of medical indications for psychedelics using primarily low to moderate “level 4” evidence. There is limited information shared on the potential adverse effects of psychedelics. Our study emphasizes the importance of using transparent and high-quality evidence by clinics and clinicians to ensure safe and effective use of psychedelics in mental health treatments.
Design and antiviral assessment of a panel of fusion proteins targeting human papillomavirus type 16
Authors: Bai Chongzhi , Wang Ruoyu , Yang Qian , Hao Jianqing , Zhong Qiming , Fan Ruiwen , Han Pengcheng
Published: October 2024

Cervical cancer ranks as the third most prevalent malignancy in women worldwide. The persistence of Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection stands out as the foremost risk factor for cervical cancer development. Among the numerous HPV subtypes, HPV16 infection emerges as the primary pathogenic determinant of cervical cancer. To date, no specific drugs have been approved. In this study, we engineered two high-affinity fusion protein targeting HPV16 L1 protein based on the alpaca-derived single-domain antibody 2C12 previously obtained in our laboratory. These two fusion proteins exhibited potent neutralizing activity against HPV16 pseudovirus with IC50 values of 7.8 nM and 6.5 nM, respectively. Molecular docking analysis revealed that 2C12 formed ten pairs of hydrogen bonds with HPV16 L1, among which Arg39 and Thr100 established multiple pairs of hydrogen bonds with HPV16 L1, indicating their crucial roles in antigen-antibody binding process. These structural and biological findings underscore the effective binding capacity of these fusion proteins to HPV16, leading to reduced viral load and providing valuable insights into therapeutic antibody and vaccine development against HPV 16 infection.
The oral pathogen Porphyromonas gingivalis gains tolerance to the antimicrobial peptide DGL13K by synonymous mutations in hagA
Authors: Gorr Sven-Ulrik , Chen Ruoqiong , Abrahante Juan E. , Joyce Paul B. M.
Published: October 2024

Porphyromonas gingivalis is a keystone pathogen for periodontal disease. The bacteria are black-pigmented and require heme for growth. P. gingivalis exhibit resistance to many antimicrobial peptides, which contributes to their success in the oral cavity. P. gingivalis W50 was resistant to the antimicrobial peptide LGL13K but susceptible to the all-D-amino acid stereoisomer, DGL13K. Upon prolonged exposure to DGL13K, a novel non-pigmented mutant was isolated. Exposure to the L-isomer, LGL13K, did not produce a non-pigmented mutant. The goal of this study was to characterize the genomic and cellular changes that led to the non-pigmented phenotype upon treatment with DGL13K. The non-pigmented mutant showed a low minimum inhibitory concentration and two-fold extended minimum duration for killing by DGL13K, consistent with tolerance to this peptide. The DGL13K-tolerant bacteria exhibited synonymous mutations in the hagA gene. The mutations did not prevent mRNA expression but were predicted to alter mRNA structure. The non-pigmented bacteria were deficient in hemagglutination and hemoglobin binding, suggesting that the HagA protein was not expressed. This was supported by whole cell enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and gingipain activity assays, which suggested the absence of HagA but not of two closely related gingipains. In vivo virulence was similar for wild type and non-pigmented bacteria in the Galleria mellonella model. The results suggest that, unlike LGL13K, DGL13K can defeat multiple bacterial resistance mechanisms but bacteria can gain tolerance to DGL13K through mutations in the hagA gene.
Association of variants in AGTR1, ACE, MTHFR genes with microalbuminuria and risk factors for the onset of diabetic nephropathy in adolescents with type 1 diabetes in the population of Serbia
Authors: Kovacevic Smiljka , Zdravkovic Vera , Blagojevic Jelena , Djordjevic Stefan , Miolski Jelena , Gasic Vladimir , Jelovac Marina , Ugrin Milena , Pavlovic Sonja , Jesic Maja
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Genetic studies may provide valuable information about patients who are at high risk of developing diabetes nephropathy. Before the appearance of albuminuria, there are genetic mutations that can predispose the development of kidney disease.

Material and methods

The study included 130 adolescents with type 1 diabetes. Patients were divided into two groups according to the presence of microalbuminuria. This study was performed to examine clinical and laboratory differences between adolescents with type 1 diabetes with and without microalbuminuria and the distribution of the ACE, AGTR1, and MTHFR gene polymorphisms.

Results

The mean microalbuminuria in the first group 6.41±7.35 significantly differs from the second group 0.82±0.48 (p<0.001). HbA1c, 24-hour proteinuria, and day-time systolic blood pressure were significantly higher in the MA group (p<0.05). Smaller systolic blood pressure percentage nocturnal decline was observed in the microalbuminuric group (p 0.030). The frequencies of the ACE DD, ID, and II genotypes were 12.5%, 50.0%, and 37.5%, respectively, among T1D patients with MA, and 19.3%, 56.1%, 24.6%, in the control group without MA (P = .510). The frequencies of the AGTR1 AA, AC, and CC genotypes were 62.5%, 25.0%, and 12.5% among TID patients with MA, and 49.1%, 43.9%, 8.0%, in the group without MA (p 0.326). The frequencies of the MTHFR CC, CT and TT genotypes were 37.5%, 50.0%, 12.5% among TID patients with MA, and 37.7%, 45.6%, 16.7% in the group without MA (p 0.901).

Conclusion

Our data suggest that common variants in the AGTR1, ACE, and MTHFR genes are not strongly associated with diabetic nephropathy in our patients with type 1 diabetes.
The importance of competitive potential in building the international competitiveness of food industry companies: Evidence from Poland
Authors: Łukiewska Katarzyna Monika
Published: October 2024

The economic and social changes taking place in the environment mean that the conditions in which enterprises operate and compete are changing and demanding. This also applies to food industry enterprises, the economic importance is emphasized by many economists. The literature on this subject lacks research on the current factors influencing the competitiveness of food industry enterprises. Thus, the aim of the study was to adopt a multidimensional assessment of the importance of selected components of competitive potential in building the international competitiveness of food industry enterprises. The following research hypothesis was adopted: the key components of the competitive potential of food industry enterprises are intangible. To achieve the main goal and verify the research hypothesis, the empirical study uses information collected using a CATI survey among representatives of food industry enterprises in Poland. The analysis used descriptive statistics, the Mann‒Whitney test, the Kruskal‒Wallis test and exploratory factor analysis, which are rarely used in research on competitiveness. Research has shown that the most important component of competitiveness is intangible assets. The punctuality of deliveries, product quality, company image and relations with suppliers and recipients play special roles. According to factor analysis, four general factors related to competitive potential were distinguished: internal competences and activities, material resources, marketing and clusters, and the market. The results of the study fill a knowledge gap related to the current competitiveness factors of food companies. On a practical level, identifying competitive potential helps improve the ability to compete, better adapt to the environment and gain a sustainable competitive advantage in international markets.
Comparison of ANN and XGBoost surrogate models trained on small numbers of building energy simulations
Authors: Stevanović Sanja , Dashti Husain , Milošević Marko , Al-Yakoob Salem , Stevanović Dragan
Published: October 2024

Surrogate optimisation holds a big promise for building energy optimisation studies due to its goal to replace the use of lengthy building energy simulations within an optimisation step with expendable local surrogate models that can quickly predict simulation results. To be useful for such purpose, it should be possible to quickly train precise surrogate models from a small number of simulation results (10–100) obtained from appropriately sampled points in the desired part of the design space. Two sampling methods and two machine learning models are compared here. Latin hypercube sampling (LHS), widely accepted in building energy community, is compared to an exploratory Monte Carlo-based sequential design method mc-intersite-proj-th (MIPT). Artificial neural networks (ANN), also widely accepted in building energy community, are compared to gradient-boosted tree ensembles (XGBoost), model of choice in many machine learning competitions. In order to get a better understanding of the behaviour of these two sampling methods and two machine learning models, we compare their predictions against a large set of generated synthetic data. For this purpose, a simple case study of an office cell model with a single window and a fixed overhang, whose main input parameters are overhang depth and height, while climate type, presence of obstacles, orientation and heating and cooling set points are additional input parameters, was extensively simulated with EnergyPlus, to form a large underlying dataset of 729,000 simulation results. Expendable local surrogate models for predicting simulated heating, cooling and lighting loads and equivalent primary energy needs of the office cell were trained using both LHS and MIPT and both ANN and XGBoost for several main hyperparameter choices. Results show that XGBoost models are more precise than ANN models, and that for both machine learning models, the use of MIPT sampling leads to more precise surrogates than LHS.
Agenda-setting in the clinical encounter: A systematic review protocol
Authors: Sierpe Ailyn , Yen Renata W. , Stevens Gabrielle , Van Citters Aricca D. , Elwyn Glyn , Saunders Catherine H.
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Agenda-setting is a collaborative communication strategy used by a clinician before or at the start of a clinical encounter to work together with the patient to “elicit, propose, and organize” topics to be discussed during the encounter. While clinical visit agenda-setting has been acknowledged as an important element of patient-centered communication, the effectiveness of agenda-setting interventions in improving healthcare outcomes is unclear. To our knowledge, no systematic review has examined clinical visit agenda-setting interventions.

Methods and analysis

The primary aim of the systematic review will be to assess the effects of agenda-setting interventions on outcomes relating to the clinical encounter itself, patients, and clinicians, as well as any other study-specified outcomes. Our secondary aims will be to examine the characteristics and delivery attributes of agenda-setting interventions, as well as how agenda-setting has been operationalized and measured. We will search selected databases (APA PsycInfo, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, MEDLINE via PubMed, ProQuest, Scopus, and Web of Science) and gray literature from inception until date of search. All studies comparing a clinical visit agenda-setting intervention with either usual care or another agenda-setting intervention will be included. Two independent reviewers will complete article screening and data extraction, with a third independent reviewer resolving any conflicts. We will assess all studies’ methodological quality and the quality of their evidence using standardized criteria. If a sufficient number of studies report the same outcomes, we will pool their results and perform a meta-analysis of those outcomes. We will also synthesize all results qualitatively, regardless of whether we are able to complete a meta-analysis.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42023468045
VICR: A novel software for unbiased video and image analysis in scientific research
Authors: Kihn Kyle , Thomas Clementine A. D. , Brelidze Tinatin I.
Published: October 2024

In scientific research, objectivity and unbiased data analysis is crucial for the validity and reproducibility of outcomes. This is particularly important for studies involving video or image categorization. A common approach of decreasing the bias is delegating data analysis to researchers unfamiliar with the experimental settings. However, this requires additional personnel and is prone to cognitive biases. Here we describe the Video & Image Cutter & Randomizer (VICR) software (https://github.com/kkihnphd/VICR), designed for unbiased analysis by segmenting and then randomizing the segmented videos or still images. VICR allows a single researcher to conduct and analyze studies in a blinded manner, eliminating the bias in analysis and streamlining the research process. We describe the features of the VICR software and demonstrate its capabilities using zebrafish behavior studies. To our knowledge, VICR is the only software for the randomization of video and image segments capable of eliminating bias in data analysis in a variety of research fields.
HIV self-testing: A highly acceptable and feasible strategy for reconnecting street adolescents with HIV screening and prevention services in Togo (The STADOS study)
Authors: Sadio Arnold Junior , Kouanfack Harold Régis , Konu Rodion Yao , Gbeasor-Komlanvi Fifonsi Adjidossi , Azialey Gagnon Kwami , Gounon Herbert Kokou , Tchankoni Martin Kouame , Amenyah-Ehlan Amivi Phyllis , Dagnra Anoumou Claver , Ekouevi Didier Koumavi
Published: October 2024

Introduction

HIV self-testing is a complementary screening strategy that could facilitate access to HIV care services for street adolescents. The objectives of this study were to assess the acceptability and feasibility of HIV self-testing and their associated factors, to estimate HIV prevalence among street adolescents in Togo, and to describe the sexual behavior of this population.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted between July 2021 and May 2022 in Lomé and Kara (Togolese cities with the highest number of street adolescents). Street adolescents aged 13–19 years were included. An oral HIV self-test (OraQuick®) was used. Acceptability was defined as the proportion of adolescents who completed the test, and feasibility was defined as the proportion of adolescents who reported a test with a valid result. An HIV serological test was performed for all participants. A weighted logistic regression model was used to identify the factors associated with the acceptability and feasibility of HIV self-testing.

Results

A total of 432 street adolescents (12.3% female) with a median age of 15 years, interquartile range (IQR) [14–17], were included in this study. Of the 231 sexually active adolescents, only 30.3% (n = 70) reported having used a condom during their last sexual intercourse. HIV self-test was offered to a sub-sample of 294 street adolescents. Acceptability was 96.6% (284/294), (95%CI = [93.8–98.3]) and feasibility 98.9% (281/284), (95%CI = [97.0–100.0]). Being 16 years of age or older (aOR = 28.84; p<0.001) was associated with HIV self-test acceptability. Reporting drug abuse (aOR = 0.47; p = 0.020) was negatively associated to acceptability. Having an educational level at least equivalent to secondary school was associated to HIV self-testing feasibility (aOR = 3.92; p = 0.040). Self-test results were correctly interpreted by 98.6% of street adolescents. HIV prevalence was estimated at 0.9% (95%CI [0.4–2.4]).

Conclusion

HIV self-testing is acceptable and feasible among street adolescents, a population at high risk of HIV infection in Togo. The provision of HIV self-testing kits, coupled with condom distribution, represents an opportunity to improve access to HIV care services.
Carbon emissions and low-carbon innovation in firms
Authors: Ma Jiao
Published: October 2024

Most of the previous studies of environmental innovation focus on the impact of environmental innovation on carbon emissions. This study rarely examines the internal causes and mechanisms of influence of low-carbon innovation. This study focuses on the effect of carbon emissions on low-carbon innovation in firms. Using a panel data set of Chinese A-share firms, this study finds that the increase in carbon emissions promotes low-carbon innovation. This promoting effect comes from high carbon emissions increasing the pressure to reduce carbon emissions in firms and prompting firms to increase R&D investment, and the effect is more pronounced in firms with lower equity concentration or high-tech firms. It is also found that indirect carbon emissions do not promote low-carbon innovation, while other types of carbon emissions do. This study expands the research on the internal causes of low-carbon innovation in firms, examines the logic influencing low-carbon innovation in firms from the perspective of emission reduction motives and methods, reveals that global warming contains opportunities for the development of low-carbon innovation in firms, and provides a reference for optimizing the carbon emissions calculation system.
Pruebas de evaluación a gran escala y eficacia escolar: una revisión sistemática de la literatura
Authors: Frade-Martínez Cristina , Gamazo Adriana , Olmos-Migueláñez Susana
Published: October 2024

Desde hace décadas diferentes organismos internacionales han diseñado pruebas de evaluación internacional a gran escala (ILSA) dirigidas a medir el rendimiento de los estudiantes y tratando de establecer comparaciones entre los sistemas educativos. Se presenta una revisión sistemática de la literatura que pretende conocer la evolución y las características de los análisis secundarios de tres ILSA (PISA, TIMSS y PIRLS), así como identificar posibles mejoras y futuras líneas de investigación. Se realizaron búsquedas en tres repositorios: Web of Science, Scopus y ERIC, centrados en análisis secundarios de datos de estas pruebas desarrolladas desde el año 2000 cuyo objetivo principal era analizar cuestiones relacionadas con los predictores del rendimiento y la eficacia escolar. Tras aplicar diferentes criterios, se seleccionaron 63 artículos de los 470 identificados. Este análisis ha permitido identificar el aumento del interés por este tema en los últimos años, la falta de estudios en determinadas regiones o la prevalencia de la metodología multinivel. La revisión también ha puesto de manifiesto algunas limitaciones de la literatura existente, como la falta de consideración de los problemas inherentes al diseño de evaluaciones a gran escala, así como los relacionados con los datos utilizados para el análisis, como por ejemplo la imposibilidad de establecer relaciones causales o la falta de datos a nivel de aula. Estos resultados sirven de base para hacer algunas recomendaciones, así como para detectar áreas menos exploradas, como las variables relacionadas con el currículo o las variables a nivel de país.
Manajemen Blended Learning Pasca Pandemi Covid-19: Studi Kasus Sekolah di Indonesia
Authors: Irwanto Irwanto , Arifin Zainal , Artanto Dicky , Wahyuni Titi , Jannah Wardatul
Published: October 2024

This study aims to find out the main factors that contribute to blended learning management in Indonesia. The research is focused on identifying the management process which includes, planning, organizing, implementing, and evaluating the blended learning management program at SMAN 2 Jember, SMKN 1 Wanayasa Banjarnegara and SMP 1 Prambanan Yogyakarta. This research is qualitative descriptive research with a naturalistic approach. The results show that the four functions of the management process have a very large influence on the results of the blended learning management program. First, the planning of the blended learning program involves all school stakeholders, as well as through the creation of a regular schedule. Second, in terms of organizing blended learning programs, the school goes through the curriculum work process so that teachers fill out a daily journal, to monitor activities. Third, the implementation of the blended learning program based on the learning process in the classroom by providing materials and explanations, as well as information transformation through room meeting to do practice questions at home. Fourth, learning evaluation is carried out through google classroom for attitude knowledge, and practicum for skill aspects, as well as private universities and UAS. Blended learning management policies involving all school stakeholders, filling out daily journals, learning in the classroom and delivering material through room meetings can optimize the learning process in the post-covid-19 pandemic period.
I loved your programme, but…: Fifty years of the International Features Conference
Authors: Elmes Simon
Published: October 2024

The International Features Conference celebrates its 50th year with a new name - the Audio Storytelling Festival. Those fifty years have seen monumental political, social and technological change in Europe, but documentary-maker Simon Elmes looks back at the people that make the event what is is, a place of dialogue, of learning and of often very robust feedback...
ANALISIS SENTIMEN APLIKASI MICROSOFT TEAMS BERDASARKAN ULASAN GOOGLE PLAY STORE MENGGUNAKAN MODEL NEURAL NETWORK DENGAN OPTIMASI ADAPTIVE MOMENT ESTIMATION (ADAM)
Authors: Andriani Nefa , Warsito Budi , Santoso Rukun
Published: October 2024

The Covid-19 virus pandemic with its rapid spread has made the government enact several policies that can reduce community activities that have the potential to cause crowds including social distancing, work from home (WFH) and online and hybrid learning. One of the platforms that was widely used during the WFH and online learning period was Microsoft Teams. Microsoft Teams is an app that lets people and organizations collaborate and interact online. Microsoft Teams can be downloaded through the Google Play Store and users can leave reviews. Sentiment analysis is used to classify user sentiment towards Microsoft Teams into positive and negative sentiments. Review data obtained from January to November 2022. The classification is carried out using the Neural Network which is a computational system inspired by biological neural networks. Weight optimization is done using Adaptive Moment Estimation which is popular in the field of deep learning because it achieves good results quickly. The classification model in this paper was built with a training test ratio of 80:20. The best hyperparameter combination is node hidden layer 100, learning rate 0.0001, and batch size 32. The accuracy of the ANN classification model was obtained by 88.16%.Keywords: Microsoft Teams, Google Play Store, Sentiment Analysis, Neural Network, Adaptive Moment Estimation
HOLT WINTERS EXPONENTIAL SMOOTHING UNTUK MERAMALKAN PRODUK DOMESTIK BRUTO DI INDONESIA
Authors: Amalia Iva Rizki , Widiharih Tatik , Tarno Tarno
Published: October 2024

A country's economic growth will be seen as having grown better or worse than in the past by measuring based on the increase in Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The pattern of Indonesian GDP from 2010 to 2022 shows that the data increases from year to year and there are seasonal fluctuations in the quarter. Holt Winters method is part of the Exponential Smoothing method used for forecasting if the data shows a trend and seasonality in the data pattern. The Holt Winters method has two models, namely additive and multiplicative. Holt Winters Additive is used if the data shows trends and seasonal patterns remain constant. Multiplicative Holt Winter is used if the data shows trends and seasonal patterns proportional to the average rate of the seasonal time series. The data used in this study are GDP Based on Current Prices (Nominal GDP) and GDP on the Basis of Constant Prices (Real GDP). Based on the evaluation of model performance using test data forecasting, the Holt Winters Multiplicative model of Nominal GDP with a MAPE value of 4,767535% is the best model because it has an accuracy value of <10%. While the Holt Winters Additive model of Real GDP with a MAPE value of 4,42387% is also the best model because it has an accuracy value of <10%.
PENENTUAN VALUE AT RISK (VAR) PADA PORTOFOLIO BIVARIAT DENGAN PENDEKATAN COPULA GUMBEL
Authors: Febriani Karina , Tarno Tarno , Fakhriyana Deby
Published: October 2024

One way to minimize risk in stock investment is stock portfolio. Value at Risk (VaR) is a calculation method that can be used to estimate the risk of a stock portfolio. VaR can be measured by parametric and non-parametric approaches. Calculation of VaR with Monte Carlo simulation assumes the data is normally distributed. Stock return data generally has high volatility so that the residual variance of the model is not constant (heteroscedasticity) and not normally distributed. The ARIMA-GARCH model can be used to solve heteroscedasticity problems. Copula is a tool used to model the combined distribution of residuals from the ARIMA-GARCH model which does not require normality assumptions. Gumbel's copula is copula that has the best sensitivity to high risk. This study uses stock data of PT Bukit Asam Tbk (PTBA) and PT Chandra Asri Petrochemical Tbk (TPIA) for the period April 1 2020 – December 1 2022. The initial step of this research is model stock returns using the ARIMA-GARCH method and then calculate portfolio VaR using the Gumbel’s copula. The results showed that the best model for PTBA is ARIMA(2,0,2) GARCH(1,1) and for TPIA is ARIMA(1,0,0) GARCH (1,1). At the 95% confidence level, the portfolio risk is 2,41%.
REUSE OF TREATED WATER FROM BOJONGSOANG DOMESTIC WASTEWATER TREATMENT INSTALLATION AS WATER FOR INDUSTRIAL PURPOSES
Authors: Pirngadi Budi Heri , Syarifudin Deden , Octaviani Viera Mustika
Published: October 2024

Subdistrict Bojongsoang and its surroundings are based on the 2016-2036 Bandung Regency Spatial Planning, the designated area where the industry is. Currently, there are 125 existing industries operating. The area is also included in groundwater withdrawal through well artesian on a massive scale, including into the national protected area (CAT: Groundwater Basin) Bandung - Soreang Area. Excessive groundwater extraction poses challenges coupled with significant water demand from society and industry. This will result in deteriorated groundwater conditions that require prompt restoration, having already suffered damage. On the other hand, there is Bojongsoang WWTP, which can treat wastewater at 2800 l/s; meanwhile, at the moment, this capacity processing is utilized about 37-40% or about 100m3/day. This research uses a descriptive method. The research results prove that reusing water from Bojongsoang WWTP could produce raw water for the necessity industry of 300 l/s.