bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Access to digital finance: Equity crowdfunding across countries and platforms
Authors: Estrin Saul , Khavul Susanna , Kritikos Alexander S. , Löher Jonas
Published: January 2024

Financing entrepreneurship spurs innovation and economic growth. Digital financial platforms that crowdfund equity for entrepreneurs have emerged globally, yet they remain poorly understood. We model equity crowdfunding in terms of the relationship between the number of investors and the amount of money raised per pitch. We examine heterogeneity in the average amount raised per pitch that is associated with differences across three countries and seven platforms. Using a novel dataset of successful fundraising on the most prominent platforms in the UK, Germany, and the USA, we find the underlying relationship between the number of investors and the amount of money raised for entrepreneurs is loglinear, with a coefficient less than one and concave to the origin. We identify significant variation in the average amount invested in each pitch across countries and platforms. Our findings have implications for market actors as well as regulators who set competitive frameworks.
Collagen and actin network mediate antiviral immunity against Orsay virus in C. elegans intestinal cells
Authors: Zhou Ying , Chen Hanqiao , Zhong Weiwei , Tao Yizhi Jane
Published: January 2024

C. elegans is a free-living nematode that is widely used as a small animal model for studying fundamental biological processes and disease mechanisms. Since the discovery of the Orsay virus in 2011, C. elegans also holds the promise of dissecting virus-host interaction networks and innate antiviral immunity pathways in an intact animal. Orsay virus primarily targets the worm intestine, causing enlarged intestinal lumen as well as visible changes to infected cells such as liquefaction of cytoplasm and convoluted apical border. Previous studies of Orsay virus identified that C. elegans is able to mount antiviral responses by DRH-1/RIG-I mediated RNA interference and Intracellular Pathogen Response, a uridylyltransferase that destabilizes viral RNAs by 3′ end uridylation, and ubiquitin protein modifications and turnover. To comprehensively search for novel antiviral pathways in C. elegans, we performed genome-wide RNAi screens by bacterial feeding using existing bacterial RNAi libraries covering 94% of the entire genome. Out of the 106 potential antiviral gene hits identified, we investigated those in three new pathways: collagens, actin remodelers, and epigenetic regulators. By characterizing Orsay virus infection in RNAi and mutant worms, our results indicate that collagens likely form a physical barrier in intestine cells to inhibit viral infection by preventing Orsay virus entry. Furthermore, evidence suggests that actin remodeling proteins (unc-34, wve-1 and wsp-1) and chromatin remodelers (nurf-1 and isw-1) exert their antiviral activities by regulating the intestinal actin (act-5), a critical component of the terminal web which likely function as another physical barrier to prevent Orsay infection.
Exosomes derived from bladder epithelial cells infected with uropathogenic Escherichia coli increase the severity of urinary tract infections (UTIs) by impairing macrophage function
Authors: Wang Zihao , Jiang Ziming , Zhang Yu , Wang Congwei , Liu Zhaoyang , Jia Zhankui , Bhushan Sudhanshu , Yang Jinjian , Zhang Zhengguo
Published: January 2024

Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) is the primary causative agent of urinary tract infections (UTIs) in humans. Moreover, as one of the most common bacterial pathogens, UPEC imposes a substantial burden on healthcare systems worldwide. Epithelial cells and macrophages are two major components of the innate immune system, which play critical roles in defending the bladder against UPEC invasion. Yet, the routes of communication between these cells during UTI pathogenesis are still not fully understood. In the present study, we investigated the role of membrane-bound nanovesicles (exosomes) in the communication between bladder epithelial cells and macrophages during UPEC infection, using an array of techniques such as flow cytometry, miRNA profiling, RNA sequencing, and western blotting. Moreover, our in vitro findings were validated in a mouse model of UPEC-induced cystitis. We found that UPEC infection induced the bladder epithelial MB49 cell line to secrete large numbers of exosomes (MB49-U-Exo), which were efficiently absorbed by macrophages both in vivo and in vitro. Assimilation of MB49-U-Exo induced macrophages to produce proinflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor (TNF)α. Exposure of macrophages to MB49-U-Exo reduced their phagocytic activity (by downregulating the expression of phagocytosis-related genes) and increased their rate of apoptosis. Mechanistically, we showed that MB49-U-Exo were enriched in miR-18a-5p, which induced TNFα expression in macrophages by targeting PTEN and activating the MAPK/JNK signaling pathway. Moreover, administration of the exosome secretion inhibitor GW4869 or a TNFα-neutralizing antibody alleviated UPEC-mediated tissue damage in mice with UPEC-induced cystitis by reducing the bacterial burden of the bladder and dampening the associated inflammatory response. Collectively, these findings suggest that MB49-U-Exo regulate macrophage function in a way that exacerbates UPEC-mediated tissue impairment. Thus, targeting exosomal -release or TNFα signaling during UPEC infection may represent promising non-antibiotic strategies for treating UTIs.
Effect of supersaturated dissolved oxygen on growth-, survival-, and immune-related gene expression of Pacific white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei)
Authors: Patkaew Songwut , DirekbusarakoKm Sataporn , Hirono Ikuo , Wuthisuthimethavee Suwit , Powtongsook Sorawit , Pooljun Chettupon
Published: January 2024

Background and Aim: Oxygen concentration is an essential water quality parameter for aquaculture systems. Recently, supersaturated dissolved oxygen (DO) has been widely used in aquaculture systems to prevent oxygen depletion; however, the long-term effects of supersaturated oxygen exposure on aquatic animals have not been studied. In this study, we examined the effects of supersaturated DO on the growth, survival, and gene expression of Pacific white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei).

Materials and Methods: Specific pathogen-free shrimp with a body weight of 8.22 ± 0.03 g were randomly assigned to two groups with four replicates at a density of 15 shrimps per tank. Shrimp were cultivated in recirculating tanks containing 50 L of 15 ppt seawater in each replicate. Oxygen was supplied at 5 mg/L to the control tanks using an air microbubble generator and at 15 mg/L to the treatment tanks using a pure oxygen microbubble generator. Shrimp were fed commercial feed pellets containing 39% protein at 4% of their body weight per day for 30 days. Average daily growth (ADG) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were determined on days 15 and 30. Shrimp molting was measured every day. Individual hemolymph samples were obtained and analyzed for total hemocyte count, differential hemocyte count, and expression of growth- and immune-related genes at the end of the experiment.

Results: Long-term exposure to supersaturated DO significantly affected shrimp growth. After 30 days of supersaturated DO treatment, the final weight and ADG were 14.73 ± 0.16 g and 0.22 ± 0.04, respectively. Shrimp treated with normal aeration showed significantly lower weight (12.13 ± 0.13 g) and ADG (0.13 ± 0.00) compared with the control group. FCR was 1.55 ± 0.04 in the treatment group and 2.51 ± 0.09 in the control group. Notably, the shrimp molting count was 1.55- fold higher in the supersaturated DO treatment than in the supersaturated DO treatment. The expression of growth-related genes, such as alpha-amylase, cathepsin L, and chitotriosidase, was 1.40-, 1.48-, and 1.35-fold higher, respectively, after supersaturated DO treatment. Moreover, the treatment increased the expression of anti-lipopolysaccharide factor, crustin, penaeidin3, and heat shock protein 70 genes by 1.23-, 2.07-, 4.20-, and 679.04-fold, respectively, compared to the controls.

Conclusion: Supersaturated DO increased growth and ADG production and decreased FCR. Furthermore, enhanced immune-related gene expression by supersaturated DO may improve shrimp health and reduce disease risk during cultivation.

Keywords: gene expression, growth performance, molting, pacific white shrimp, supersaturated dissolved oxygen.
Extraosseous Ewing sarcoma of the pancreas: a case report
Authors: Gecici Neslihan Nisa , Camurdan Vedat Burkay , Khatalin Mai Al , Yildirim Onur
Published: January 2024

Extraosseous Ewing sarcoma is a rare and aggressive malignancy belonging to the Ewing sarcoma family of tumors, primarily affecting soft tissues such as the pelvis, retroperitoneum, and chest wall. Although it predominantly involves these soft tissues, extraosseous Ewing sarcoma can also occur in solid organs, including the pancreas. Here, we present a rare case of a 4-year-old girl diagnosed with primary extraosseous Ewing sarcoma of the pancreas.
Optimizing laser-based micro-cutting for PMMA microfluidic device fabrication: thermal analysis and parameter optimization
Authors: Bagum Mst. Nasima , Habib Md. Ahsan , Rashed Choudhury Abul Anam , Kibria Md. Mehedi Hasan , Nahar Syeda Kumrun
Published: January 2024

Laser processes have gained popularity in microfluidic device fabrication. This study aims to determine the optimal parameters for laser-based micro-cutting to achieve the desired width, depth, profile, and material removal, considering the thermal properties of PMMA. A CNC CO2 laser was used, and 29 trials tested various speed and power combinations. Two theoretical models based on trial results focused on depth and width. COMSOL Multiphysics FEA software estimated surface temperature. Theoretical depth estimation matched experimental data more accurately when the P/S ratio was below 0.15 and the scanning speed was set at 500 mm/s or 750 mm/s. At 500 mm/s, width estimation was most accurate, up to 30 W. At 750 mm/s, experimental width exceeded predictions. Material removal increased proportionally with increasing P/S ratio, but beyond a threshold of 0.15, material removal remained nearly constant despite rising heat input. Laser-cut track shape varied, resembling a ‘U’ at lower and a ‘V’ at higher ratios. The groove shape transitioned from ‘U’ to ‘V’ when the temperature surpassed 1200 K. A V-shaped groove required a temperature exceeding 1500 K. Optimization confirmed a microchannel depth of 0.197 mm, width of 0.256 mm, and ‘U–V’ channel shape achievable at 30 W and 200 mm/s scanning speed, with a surface temperature of 1325 K.
Enhancing athletes’ self-compassion and psychological well-being through imagery
Authors: Carson Sackett Sarah , Alicea Sheila , Winter Angela
Published: January 2024

This review examines the extant literature advocating for enhanced self-compassion as an accessible means to foster psychological well-being (e.g., reduced self-criticism, rumination, and anxiety symptom; enhanced hope, emotion regulation, self-acceptance, self-efficacy). The case for athletes as a special population who can benefit from strengthening this asset is made; Compassion-Focused Imagery (CFI) is introduced as an effective tool for developing self-compassion; and a case scenario and sample CFI script are presented. Gaps in the current understanding of and empirical investigations of CFI use in athletes are identified, along with unique challenges the sport context provides for self-compassion-focused interventions.
Ultra-broadband and wide-angle nonreciprocal thermal emitter based on Weyl semimetal metamaterials
Authors: Shi Kezhang , Sun Yuwei , Hu Run , He Sailing
Published: January 2024

Nonreciprocal thermal radiation can violate Kirchhoff’s law and exhibit different emissivity at symmetric polar angles relative to the normal direction. Realizing a mid-infrared broadband nonreciprocal thermal emitter with a wide emission angle range is a fundamental yet challenging task, particularly without the need for an external magnetic field. Here, we propose a nonreciprocal thermal emitter operating in the mid-infrared that achieves a significantly nonreciprocal thermal radiation in a wavelength range from 12 μm to 20 μm, spanning a wide angular range from 16° to 88°. This is achieved by utilizing a multilayered Weyl semimetal (WSM)/dielectric structure, which takes the advantage of the strong nonreciprocity of WSMs with different Fermi levels and epsilon-near-zero-induced Brewster modes. The results provide a wider angular range in the broad mid-infrared band compared to previous attempts. The robustness of the nonreciprocal radiation is confirmed through wavelength-averaged emissivity across the azimuth angle φ range from 0° to 360°. Some possible materials and nanostructures as dielectric layers are discussed, showcasing the flexibility and reliability of the design. This work holds promising potential applications such as enhanced radiative cooling, thermal emitters for medical sensing and infrared heating, energy conversion, etc.
Spatio-spectral control of coherent nanophotonics
Authors: Lee June Sang , Farmakidis Nikolaos , Aggarwal Samarth , Dong Bowei , Zhou Wen , Pernice Wolfram H. P. , Bhaskaran Harish
Published: January 2024

Fast modulation of optical signals that carry multidimensional information in the form of wavelength, phase or polarization has fueled an explosion of interest in integrated photonics. This interest however masks a significant challenge which is that independent modulation of multi-wavelength carrier signals in a single waveguide is not trivial. Such challenge is attributed to the longitudinal direction of guided-mode propagation, limiting the spatial separation and modulation of electric-field. Here, we overcome this using a single photonic element that utilizes active coherent (near) perfect absorption. We make use of standing wave patterns to exploit the spatial-degrees-of-freedom of in-plane modes and individually address elements according to their mode number. By combining the concept of coherent absorption in spatio-spectral domain with active phase-change nanoantennas, we engineer and test an integrated, reconfigurable and multi-spectral modulator operating within a single element. Our approach demonstrates for the first time, a non-volatile, wavelength-addressable element, providing a pathway for exploring the tunable capabilities in both spatial and spectral domains of coherent nanophotonics.
Broadband giant nonlinear response using electrically tunable polaritonic metasurfaces
Authors: Yu Jaeyeon , Park Seongjin , Hwang Inyong , Boehm Gerhard , Belkin Mikhail A. , Lee Jongwon
Published: January 2024

Intersubband transitions in semiconductor heterostructures offer a way to achieve large and designable nonlinearities with dynamic modulation of intersubband energies through the Stark effect. One promising approach for incorporating these nonlinearities into free space optics is a nonlinear polaritonic metasurface, which derives resonant coupling between intersubband nonlinearities and optical modes in nanocavities. Recent work has shown efficient frequency mixing at low pumping intensities, with the ability to electrically tune the phase, amplitude, and spectral peak of it. However, the spectral tunability of intersubband nonlinearities is constrained by the static spectral response of nanocavities. To overcome this limitation, we present nonlinear polaritonic metasurfaces for a broadband giant nonlinear response. This is achieved by combining a Stark tunable nonlinear response from a quantum-engineered semi-conductor heterostructure with arrays of three nanocavities with different resonant wavelengths. We experimentally demonstrate broadband second harmonic generation (SHG) and a shift in the peak SHG efficiency within the range of 8.9–10.6 μm by applying bias voltage. This work will provide a promising route for achieving broadband and electrically tunable nonlinearities in metasurfaces.
Removal of acid dye from wastewater by cloud point extraction and regeneration of surfactant by pH regulation
Authors: Ghouas Halima , Benderrag Abdelkader , Haddou Boumedienne , Gourdon Cristophe
Published: January 2024

This work concerns the coacervate extraction of industrial dye, namely Acid Green 9 (AG-9) from aqueous solution by nonionic surfactant Lutensol AO7 and TX-114 (readily biodegradable). Binary water/surfactant and pseudo-binary phase diagrams were plotted. The extraction results as a function of wt% of the surfactant and temperature are expressed by: percentage of solute extracted, E%, residual concentrations of solute and surfactant in the dilute phase (X

s,w
and X

t,w
respectively) and volume fraction of coacervate at equilibrium (Фc). For each parameter, whose values are determined by a design of experiments, these results are subjected to empirical smoothing in three dimensionsusing response surface methodology (RSM). The aim of this study is to find out the best compromise between E % and Фc. Under optimal conditions, the extraction extent of AG-9 reaches 98 % and 96 % using TX-114 and Lutensol AO7, respectively. The effect of Na2SO4 and CTAB addition is also studied. Finally, the possibility of recycling the surfactant is proved.
What Is the Right (White) Way to Be Sexual?
Authors: Juárez Ana María , Kerl Stella Beatriz
Published: January 2024

Dominant representations of Latinas in popular and scholarly literature narrowly portray Latina sexual practices. Latina sexuality is often dichotomized: we are categorized either as traditional and sexually repressed, or as acculturated and sexually liberated. These interpretations reflect ethnocentric and essentialized understandings of both Latina/o culture and human sexuality. Many authors assume that modern white sexuality has progressively become more liberated and is the healthy, right way to be sexual. Even some of the arguments and analyses of Chicanas/os and Latinas/os normalize assumptions about sexual expression and evaluate “traditional” Latina sexuality only in terms of “negative sex”: negative sexual attitudes and experiences. Additionally, Juárez and Kerl recognize Latina writers-many leaders in lesbian/gay studies-who acknowledge that Latina sexuality is complex, diverse, and always locally and historically situated. They argue that Latinas may have unique ways of expressing sexualities, but are neither as repressed nor as oppressed as both popular culture and scholars would have us believe.
“This Is No Slum!”
Authors: Yosso Tara J. , García David G.
Published: January 2024

Drawing on a critical race theory framework, this article weaves together sociology, education, history, and performance studies to challenge deficit interpretations of Pierre Bourdieu’s cultural capital theory and to analyze Culture Clash’s play Chavez Ravine. The play recounts a decade of Los Angeles history through the perspectives of displaced Mexican American families from three former neighborhoods of Chavez Ravine. Culture Clash’s performance recovers and personifies the community cultural wealth cultivated by these families. This multifaceted portfolio of cultural assets and resources includes aspirational, linguistic, social, navigational, familial, and resistant capital. Chavez Ravine affirms the continuity of Chicana/o communities, utilizing culture as a source of strength that facilitates survival and nurtures resistance.
“My Bones Shine in the Dark”
Authors: Allatson Paul
Published: January 2024

The autobiographically modulated poetry and prose collection City of God (1994) and other published works by the late Gil Cuadros (1962–96) survive as an important set of AIDS testimonials, the first of their kind in Chicano literary production. This paper explores Cuadros’s preoccupation with processes of identificatory signification and corporeal scripting. I regard his writings as a sustained textual response to the multiple signifying systems that battle over the Chicano queer body, which is always an ambivalently U.S. body, and, in his texts, a body living and dying with AIDS as well. Accordingly, my main interest lies in plotting how Cuadros’s work confronts and evades the sociocultural imperative to make of the queer Chicano subject a body that can be read,known, and potentially punished.
Straddling la otra frontera
Authors: Miner Dylan
Published: January 2024

Although there is a surplus of literature dealing with U.S.-Mexico border identities and cultures, this article begins to problematize and reposition Chicana/o art historical discourse by engaging with the U.S.-Canada border. By investigating the relationship between working-class histories and Chicana/o visual culture in Michigan, the article analyzes the function of MiChicana/o culture along la frontera norteña. Evoking a multiplicity of art historical and cultural studies approaches, the author addresses the work of George Vargas, Martín Moreno, Nora Chapa Mendoza, and the Xicano Development Center, among others, in hopes of recentering Chicana/o cultural studies.
Cetyl alcohol surface functionalization: a strategy for modulating electronic characteristics of boron nitride nanosheets
Authors:   Department of Physics, Noorul Islam Centre for Higher Education Kumaracoil, Thuckalay- 629 180, Tamilnadu, India, Neeraja S. M. , Bindhu B. ,   Department of Physics, Noorul Islam Centre for Higher Education Kumaracoil, Thuckalay- 629 180, Tamilnadu, India
Published: January 2024

Hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) is a two-dimensional material with a unique layered structure akin to Graphene. Cetyl alcohol (CH₃(CH₂)₁₅OH) denoted as CA, a fatty alcohol derived from natural sources like palm oil and coconut oil, holds a significant place in various industries due to its versatile properties. Cetyl alcohol's has a potential in forming stable nanostructures and its interactions with other compounds, shedding light on its utility in nanotechnology and materials science. In this work exfoliation of BNNS and subsequent functionalization using Cetyl alcohol is investigated. The functionalization of boron nitride nanosheets (BNNS) using CA is investigated in this study. The modification process aims to enhance the properties and applications of BNNS. OH groups are functionalized and bring about beneficial changes to its properties, enabling enhanced interactions with other compounds. This modification can lead to improved solubility, emulsification, and lubrication capabilities, expanding its utility in various applications such as cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and industrial processes. Characterization techniques, including Thermogravimetric analysis(TG/DTA), UV-Visible spectroscopy, Photoluminescence, X- ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) are employed to analyze the efficacy of the functionalization process. Thermogravimetric-differential thermal analysis (TG-DTA) was utilized to investigate the thermal characteristics of the functionalized samples.
Green synthesis of emerging ZnO and Ca-doped ZnO nanoparticles towards optical, magnetic properties and its antibacterial application
Authors:   Department of Biotechnology, Periyar University Centre for Post Graduate and Research Studies, Dharmapuri, 635 205, India, Revathi R. , Revathi S. ,   b School of Electronics Engineering, Vellore Institute of Technology ( VIT), Chennai 600 127, India, Jothiramalingam R. ,   Department of chemistry, College of science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia., Sukumar M. ,   Department of Applied Physics, Sri Venkateswara College of Engineering, Sriperumbudur 602 117, Tamil Nadu, India, Mohamed Basith N. ,   Post-Graduate and Research Department of Chemistry, The New College (Autonomous), University of Madras, Chennai, 600014, India, Sundararajan M. ,   PG & Research Department of Physics, Paavendhar College of Arts & Science, M.V. South, Thalaivasal, Salem 636 121,Tamilnadu, India, Yuvaraj S. ,   Department of Physics, Vel Tech Rangarajan Dr. Sagunthala R&D Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai 600 062,Tamilnadu, India, Arokiyraj S. ,   Department of Food Science and Biotechnology, Sejong University, Gwangjingu, Seoul -05006, South Korea
Published: January 2024

A green synthesis method is adopted to prepare emerging low cost ZnO (ZNP) and Ca substitute ZnO nanoparticles (CZNP) using Psidium guajava fruit (PGF) extract as an effective reducing and capping agent. An X-ray diffraction study of the synthesized nanoparticles revealed that they have a hexagonal wurtzite structure. The elemental compositions and oxidation states of ZNP and CZNP surfaces are quantified. The HRSEM image shows the nano-flake like structure of the synthesized nanomaterials ZNP and CZNP samples. The elemental compositions were identified using EDAX spectra. From the Raman spectra, the low wavenumber region of 2nd order Raman modes at 341 and 346 cm-1 were ascribed to the difference E2 high-E2 low. Kubelka–Munk (K–M) method is used for estimating direct band gap and it is 3.3 eV and 3.04 eV for ZNP and CZNP respectively. Due to the zinc and oxygen vacancies, six different bands were observed in the photoluminescence spectra. The TG analysis was observed 5.6% of weight loss for ZNP and 5.8% of weight loss for CZNP sample. The Magnetization–Field (M–H) hysteresis curves revealed the appearance of diamagnetic behavior at room temperature. The asfabricated pure ZnO and Ca-doped ZnO nanoparticles were evaluated for the antibacterial activity. The Ca substituted ZnO sample showed higher antibacterial activity than pure ZnO sample.
The Experience of Paramedic Students who Participated in the Emergency Room Clinical Practice: A Grounded Theory Study
Authors:   The Korean Journal of the Human Development, Kim Yu Na
Published: January 2024

This study examines paramedic students' emergency room clinical practice experiences. For this purpose, the researcher selected nine students at the college in the G area and conducted the study using the grounded theory approach. The researcher con-ducted in-depth interviews using semi-structured questionnaires and analyzed them us-ing grounded theory. Data analysis performed open coding, axis coding, and refining theo-ry proposed by Strauss and Corbin based on grounded theory. To acquire validity and reli-ability, the researcher categorized concepts through continuous questioning, comparative analysis, identifying essential things in the data, and giving meaning to them. As a result of this study, 14 categories, 36 subcategories, and 128 concepts were derived, and the core category was establishing occupational perspective as a paramedic. Causal context and intervening conditions influenced the central phenomenon of establishing an occupa-tional perspective as a paramedic. In addition, actions/interactions showed an incessant desire for academics, exploration of vocational aptitude, and effort to adapt to the emer-gency room. Consequences appeared as a feeling of the importance of clinical practice, perspective on society, growth and development, and the future of a paramedic. This study is meaningful because it seeks to understand the paramedic students' clinical prac-tice experiences and raise social and policy interests.
Adult Attachment and Psychological Well-Being among Mothers with Preschoolers: Mediation Effects of Cognitive Emotion Regulation Strategies
Authors:   The Korean Journal of the Human Development, Chyung Yun-Joo
Published: January 2024

The purpose of this study is to examine whether or not the relationship between mothers’ adult attachment (anxious and avoidant) and psychological well-being is medi-ated by cognitive emotion regulation strategies (adaptive and maladaptive). Three hun-dred and twelve mothers (mean age = 36.65 years old) participated in the study via an on-line survey. Data were analyzed using SPSS 25.0 and Process macro for SPSS (Hayes, 2022). Descriptive statistics and Pearson’s product correlation coefficients were obtained, and tests of the mediation effects were performed by model 4 of Process macro for SPSS. As for mediation effects, both adaptive and maladaptive cognitive emotion regulation strategies were found to partially mediate the relationship between mothers’ adult at-tachment and psychological well-being. These findings indicate that supporting mothers of insecure adult attachment (anxious or avoidant) to use adaptive cognitive emotion reg-ulation strategies might enhance their psychological well-being which is related to pos-itive parenting.
The Interaction between Intelligent Robots and Children in Daycare Centers
Authors:   The Korean Journal of the Human Development, Kim Soojung , Suh Hyemin , Lee Boram
Published: January 2024

The purpose of this study is to introduce artificial intelligence (AI) robots to day-care centers to examine how children interact with robots in a natural environment and whether these interaction patterns change over time. Accordingly, the AI robot ALPHA MINI was introduced into two classes (33 children and 3 teachers) at daycare centers for 5 years olds to observe interactions among children, teachers, and a robot for three months. In addition, interviews with teachers were conducted after using the robot. The findings of the study revealed that children mainly use simple language with robots to en-gage in entertainment-oriented interactions, information acquisition interactions, and emotional interactions. Furthermore, while the interaction between children and robots remained relatively stable over time, it was noted that children leading the interaction with robots circulated, and the interaction patterns between peers mediated by robots has changed. Based on these findings, we highlight the need for prior deliberations on techni-cal support, teacher education, and AI ethics as prerequisites for the integration of AI ro-bots into early childhood classrooms.
An Ecological Case Study on the Experiences of Social Adjustment of Out-of-School Youths
Authors:   The Korean Journal of the Human Development, Kim Young Ju , Chae Soo Eun
Published: January 2024

The study aims to identify the personality competencies out-of-school youths use for social adaptation and to understand their adaptation patterns in and out of the ecosystem. The study, conducted from May to August 2022, involved surveys and inter-views with out-of-school youths and 11 associated individuals (5 youths, 3 parents, 3 ad-visors) in D city. Over four months, data were gathered through individual and focus group interviews and analyzed using Giorgi’s semantic unit analysis. The analysis revealed 228 themes, forming 26 topic groups and 4 categories, related to the adolescents' personality competencies for social adaptation. These youths showed positive life acceptance, future preparedness, and internal and external protective factors aiding their crisis management and adaptation. Additionally, self-reported adaptation patterns of these adolescents yielded 73 themes, 14 topic groups, and 4 categories. Parent and advisor reports on youth adaptation patterns resulted in 71 themes, 13 topic groups, and 4 categories. The study found that these adolescents are adapting to society and maturing through experiences facilitated by external support systems (family support, positive feedback, opportunity provision) and internal character competencies, within a dynamic environment.
Credit Financing of Micro-Enterprises and Farmers by Commercial and Cooperative Banks in Poland: Does the Use of Investment and Working Capital Loans Change During the COVID-19 Pandemic?
Authors:   Warsaw University of Life Sciences SGGW, Wielechowski Michał , Zając Adam ,   Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University, Czech Katarzyna
Published: January 2024

Purpose – The paper aims to assess the credit financing of microenterprises and farmers by commercial and cooperative banks in pre-COVID-19 and COVID-19 subperiods. Research method – In the study, we apply the Kruskal-Wallis test and Wilcoxon ranksum pairwise comparison test with the adjustment based on the Benjamini and Hochberg method to check whether there are significant differences in median values of banking loan categories for microenterprises and farmers among commercial and cooperative banks in the pre-COVID-19 and COVID-19 periods. Results – We observe that microenterprises mostly use commercial banks, while farmers depend majorly on cooperative banks. Additionally, farmers use investment loans more often than microenterprises. We show a significant decline in loan sales and enquiries among microenterprises and farmers during COVID-19. Moreover, we observe the median values of all analysed categories show significant differences between commercial and cooperative banks. It concerns both investment and working capital loans. Originality /value /implications /recommendations – Our contribution is that we analyse this issue from the perspective of leading suppliers offering banking loans, i.e., commercial and cooperative banks. We detect whether analysed banking loan categories differ significantly in the group of microenterprises and farmers across commercial and cooperative banks in Poland in the above-mentioned periods. To our knowledge, there are no similar studies. The results of our study might be helpful for banking institutions and policymakers in the context of a potential future pandemic or crisis situation.
Update on therapeutic use of levothyroxine for the management of hypothyroidism during pregnancy
Authors: Urgatz Bogumila , Poppe Kris G
Published: January 2024

Hypothyroidism is a relatively common finding during pregnancy. This may be due either to the presence of existing thyroid disease and/or to the increased demands that pregnancy places the thyroid gland to provide thyroid hormones for the mother and the developing fetus. There is no doubt that overt hypothyroidism is associated strongly with adverse pregnancy outcomes, including miscarriage. Meta-analyses show that thyroid hormone replacement with levothyroxine (LT4) reduces the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes in the setting of overt hypothyroidism. Accordingly, management guidelines in this area are unanimous in recommending intervention with to control the level of thyrotropin (TSH) to below 2.5 μIU/mL. The evidence for an adverse impact of subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) on pregnancy outcomes is less clear, although meta-analyses suggest that SCH reduces the chance of a successful pregnancy outcome. Guidelines also support intervention for some patients with SCH, particularly where TSH is high (>10 μIU/mL), or where TSH is above its trimester-specific reference range in a woman with thyroid autoimmunity (giving LT4 to euthyroid women with thyroid autoimmunity is not supported). Real-world evidence suggests that hypothyroidism in pregnancy is often overlooked or that LT4 is not given appropriately to gain tight control of TSH. More research is needed to identify the barriers to optimal thyroid care with LT4 at this crucial time.
Association of sensitivity to thyroid hormones with all-cause mortality in euthyroid US adults: a nationwide cohort study
Authors: Yu Genfeng , Liu Siyang , Song Cheng , Ma Qintao , Chen Xingying , Jiang Yuqi , Duan Hualin , He Yajun , Wang Dongmei , Wan Heng , Shen Jie
Published: January 2024

Background

This study aimed to examine the associations of thyroid hormone sensitivity indices, including free triiodothyronine-to-free thyroxine (FT3/FT4) ratio, thyroid feedback quantile-based index by FT4 (TFQIFT4), thyroid-stimulating hormone index (TSHI), and thyrotrophic thyroxine resistance index (TT4RI) with all-cause mortality in euthyroid adults.

Methods

The study included 6243 euthyroid adults from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2007–2012. FT3/FT4 ratio, TFQIFT4, TSHI, and TT4RI were calculated. The multivariable Cox proportional hazard regression, restricted cubic spline (RCS), and subgroup analysis were conducted.

Results

Individuals in fourth quartile (Q4) had lower all-cause mortality than those in first quartile (Q1) of FT3/FT4 ratio (hazard ratio (HR): 0.70, 95% CI: 0.51, 0.94). Regarding TFQIFT4, individuals in Q4 of TFQIFT4 had a 43% higher all-cause mortality than those in Q1 (HR: 1.43, 95% CI: 1.05, 1.96) (P < 0.05, all). Compared with participants in Q1, no associations of TSHI and TT4RI with mortality were found. TFQIFT4 was linearly and positively associated with mortality. However, the FT3/FT4 ratio showed a U-shaped association with mortality.

Conclusions

Increased risk for all-cause mortality was positively associated with TFQIFT4, suggesting that increased risk for all-cause mortality was associated with decreased central sensitivity to thyroid hormones. Furthermore, the FT3/FT4 ratio showed a U-shaped association with mortality, with an inflection point at 0.5. However, more cohort studies are needed to validate the conclusions.
AN INNOVATIVE TECHNIQUE FOR CLASSIFICATION AND DETECTION OF SKIN CANCER USING IMAGE PROCESSING AND SVM ALGORITHM
Authors: Dr. Vijayalakshmi D. , Karun M. , Anand N. , Rajendran R.
Published: January 2024

Skin cancer is a serious health issue that affects millions of people worldwide. One in every three cancers is a skin cancer and, most people fail to identify and get a diagnosis which is why early detection is essential for effective treatment and improving patient outcomes. In recent years, computer vision and machine learning have become important tools for the automatic detection of skin cancer. One of the commonly used machine learning algorithms for this task is Support Vector Machines (SVMs). SVMs are a type of supervised learning algorithm that is used for classification tasks. In skin cancer detection, the SVM classifier is trained on a dataset of dermatoscopic images of skin lesions. The first step in the process is feature extraction, where relevant information is extracted from the images to serve as input to the SVM classifier. This information can include color, texture, and shape features, among others.
The training and testing of the SVM classifier is then performed using a portion of the dataset, with the remainder being used to evaluate its performance. During the testing phase, the SVM classifier is used to predict the class label of each image, which can be malignant or benign. The accuracy of the classifier is evaluated by comparing its predictions to the actual class labels of the images in the evaluation dataset.
The results of using SVMs in skin cancer detection have been promising, with high accuracy rates being achieved. This highlights the potential of SVMs as a useful tool for skin cancer screening and early detection. In conclusion, the use of SVMs in skin cancer detection provides a fast, automatic, and reliable method for detecting skin cancer, which can help to improve patient outcomes. Currently it is really very important to watch and analyse the cancer disease automatically at intervals the first stages. Irregular streaks square measure one in every of the foremost very important features (included in most of dermoscopy algorithms) that show high association with carcinoma and basal cell malignant growth malady. The diagnostic test technique for the detection is most painful and harmful so we have a tendency to tend to square measure going for the machine-driven detection. Here we have a tendency to tend to square measure practice the GLCM choices for the detection the choices of skin lesions square measure extracted normalized symmetrical grey Level Co-occurrence Matrices GLCM. GLCM based texture choices square measure extracted from each of the four classes and given as input to the Multi-Class Support vector machine that's utilized for classification purpose.
АВТОМАТИЗАЦІЯ ПРОЦЕСІВ З ВИСОКИМ ВИДІЛЕННЯМ ТЕПЛОТИ В КАТАЛІТИЧНОМУ РЕАКТОРІ
Authors: Філярський В. І. , Гурський О. О. , Воінова С. О.
Published: January 2024

Автоматизація процесів з високим виділенням теплоти в каталітичному реакторі є важливою задачею в хімічній промисловості. Ця задача стає все більш актуальною в умовах сучасного розвитку промисловості. Автоматизація процесу в каталітичному реакторі дозволяє забезпечити точний контроль над процесом і значно збільшити ефективність його роботи. Важливим елементом автоматизації каталітичних реакторів є автоматичне регулювання температури газу на виході з реактора. Ця система забезпечує збалансований рівень теплоти в реакторі шляхом автоматичної підтримки витрати, тиску і температури реагентів. Іншим елементом схеми автоматизації реактора є система автоматичного захисту від перевантаження шляхом автоматичного вимикання елементів, що припиняють подачу реагентів. Крім того, сучасні каталітичні реактори можуть мати вбудовані системи дистанційного моніторингу та діагностики стану реактора, що дозволяє вчасно реагувати на можливі неполадки та уникнути аварій. Каталітичний реактор описується нелінійними моделями, тому актуальним для нього є використання при побудові систем автоматичного керування (САК) інтелектуальних алгоритмів керування з використанням нечітких регуляторів та нейрорегуляторів. Порівняльний аналіз класичної САК та систем з нечітким регулятором та нейрорегулятором показав переваги застосування останніх перед класичною для керування об’єктами з нелінійними характеристиками. Для технічних систем з випадковим характером збурень, високим порядком їх динамічних моделей та з нелінійними характеристиками існує проблема керування в умовах невизначеності. Використання нечітких регуляторів та нейрорегуляторів забезпечує грубість і стабільну збіжність перехідних процесів у системі, тому такий підхід слід вважати доцільним.
INTERNACIONALISMO REPUBLICANO E SOBERANIA GLOBALIZADA
Authors: Silva Ricardo
Published: January 2024

Resumo O artigo concentra-se na análise do modelo normativo da soberania globalizada, concebido por Philip Pettit, com o objetivo de ampliar sua teoria neorrepublicana da liberdade como não dominação, originalmente desenvolvida para promover a liberdade dos cidadãos dentro das fronteiras nacionais para o âmbito internacional. Esse modelo, fundamentado no internacionalismo republicano e crítico tanto do cosmopolitismo (seja de orientação liberal ou republicana) quanto do não intervencionismo westfaliano, emerge como uma perspectiva promissora para a abordagem de questões teóricas acerca de justiça e legitimidade na ordem global contemporânea. No entanto, a plena realização das potencialidades desse modelo exige o enfrentamento de limitações decorrentes da insuficiência crítica em sua análise do papel desempenhado por Estados representativos e instituições internacionais. A parte final do artigo destaca essas limitações e sugere caminhos para sua superação.
Why are pregnant women physically inactive? A qualitative study on the beliefs and perceptions about physical activity during pregnancy
Authors: Gonçalves Helen , Soares Ana Luiza Gonçalves , Domingues Marlos Rodrigues , Bertoldi Andréa Damaso , Santos Maiara Gonçalves dos , Silveira Mariângela Freitas da , Coll Carolina de Vargas Nunes
Published: January 2024

This study aimed to describe the beliefs and perceptions of pregnant women and healthcare providers about physical activity during pregnancy. Using a qualitative approach, 30 pregnant women and the 14 healthcare providers caring for them were interviewed in the second trimester of pregnancy. We included women who maintained, decreased, or stopped physical activity since becoming pregnant. They were divided into low (≤ 8 years) and high schooling (> 8 years). Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted and guided by three key questions: (1) When does physical activity during pregnancy start to be considered a wrong behavior?; (2) What are the main barriers (biological or others) to physical activity?; and (3) Do the actions of healthcare providers and people close to pregnant women reinforce barriers? Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed, and analyzed based on recurring themes. All women changed their physical activity behavior (decreased or stopped) when they discovered their pregnancy. Fear of miscarriage, contractions, bleeding, and of causing malformations in the baby were the most reported reasons for decreasing or stopping physical activity. Participants also lacked access to consistent information and healthcare providers’ support on the benefits of physical activity. Despite the current international recommendations to regular physical activity during pregnancy, uncertainty regarding its benefits remains. Interventions to promote physical activity during this period should include the training of healthcare providers so they can advise and discard ideas contrary to mother-child health benefits.
Implementation of health technologies in Brazil: analysis of federal guidelines for the public health system
Authors: Silva Sarah Nascimento , Mello Nicole Freitas de , Ribeiro Laís Raquel , Silva Rosiana Estéfane da , Cota Gláucia
Published: January 2024

Abstract This study aimed to identify the regulatory framework and federal guidelines that support the process of implementing health technologies in the Unified Health System (SUS) through analysis of documents and legislation related to the National Health Technology Management Policy, published between 2009 and 2021. The search and selection of documents and subsequent data extraction were carried out. The documents were grouped into three categories: structural regulatory documents, recommendations on evaluation of technologies, and recommendations on clinical guidelines. In 38.8% of the regulatory documents, citations to implementation related mainly to SUS clinical guidelines were identified; however, no document dedicated to guiding implementation actions was identified. Recommendations related to implementations were identified in 27.1% of the reports and 66.1% of the guidelines, although without standardization and, in general, in little detail, focusing on resources and actions needed for making technology available rather than on methods and interventions for its implementation. The results evidence a gap in formal guidelines to guide the implementation process in Brazil, representing an opportunity for the development of models aligned with the reality of the SUS.
Political action in the health of transgender people in Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil
Authors: Neves André Luiz Machado das , Sívori Horacio Federico
Published: January 2024

Abstract This article describes the political action repertoire mobilized in the construction of public health policy for trans persons in the Manaus, capital city of the state of Amazonas, in northern Brazil. It is based on ethnographic research combining participant observation in the multiple sites where these policies are constructed and interviews with members of two transgender rights organizations in Manaus, between January 2016 and July 2018. Four modes of political action were reconstructed, as ideal types, named after native categories: those of confrontation, others of “articulation”, the ones seeking visibility and others collaboration. Each mode has the local society as public and agents of the municipal and state Judiciary, Legislative and Executive bodies sometimes as adversaries, sometimes as allies.