bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding the Behavior of Supercapacitor Materials via Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy: A Review
Authors: Perdana Muhamad Yudatama , Johan Bashir Ahmed , Abdallah Muaz , Hossain Md. Emdad , Aziz Md. Abdul , Baroud Turki Nabieh , Drmosh Qasem Ahmed
Published: April 2024

Energy harvesting and energy storage are two critical aspects of supporting the energy transition and sustainability. Many studies have been conducted to achieve excellent performance devices for these two purposes. As energy‐storing devices, supercapacitors (SCs) have tremendous potential to be applied in several sectors. Some electrochemical characterizations define the performance of SCs. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) is one of the most powerful analyses to determine the performance of SCs. Some parameters obtained from this analysis include bulk resistance, charge‐transfer resistance, total resistance, specific capacitance, response frequency, and response time. This work provides a holistic and comprehensive review of utilizing EIS for SC characterization. Overall, researchers can benefit from this review by gaining a comprehensive understanding of the utilization of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) for characterizing supercapacitors (SCs), enabling them to enhance SC performance and contribute to the advancement of energy harvesting and storage technologies.
Osseous choanal atresia in a canine patient
Authors: Chrysanthakopoulou Foteini , Bourdekas Panagiotis , Lyraki Maria , Panopoulos Ioannis
Published: April 2024

A 2‐year‐old, male, intact dog presented with a history of stertorous breathing since infancy, unresponsive to antibiotic therapy. On rostral rigid endoscopy, there were no remarkable findings. However, computed tomography revealed bilateral atresia of the nasal choanae, with focal hyperossification and severe narrowing, with accompanying hypoventilation of the nasopharynx. Retrograde flexible nasopharyngoscopy confirmed the severe partial choanal atresia. Surgical intervention was declined by the owner due to reasonably acceptable quality of life; therefore, only environmental modifications and symptomatic care have been implemented so far.
Recent advances on mechanisms of network generation: Community, exchangeability, and scale‐free properties
Authors: Li Zhengpin , Hou Yanxi , Wang Tiandong
Published: April 2024

The mechanisms of network generation have undergone extensive analysis and found broad applications in various real‐world scenarios. Among the fruitful literature on network models, numerous studies seek to explore and interpret fundamental graph structure properties, including the clustering effect, exchangeability, and scale‐free properties. In this paper, we present a comprehensive review of the statistical modeling methods for the mechanisms of network generation. We specifically focus on three representative classes of models, namely the stochastic block models, the exchangeable network models, and the preferential attachment models. For each model type, our approach begins by reviewing existing methods and model setups, followed by an exploration of the core modeling principles behind them. We also summarize relevant statistical inference techniques and provide a unified understanding of theoretical analyses. Furthermore, we emphasize several challenges and open problems that could shed light on future research. We conclude this review with the identification of some possible directions for future study.

This article is categorized under:

Statistical and Graphical Methods of Data Analysis > Modeling Methods and Algorithms

Algorithms and Computational Methods > Networks and Security
Language lesson learned—foreign-origin teachers and their effect on students’ language skills
Authors: Höckel Lisa Sofie
Published: April 2024

International migration increases classroom diversity around the world, but little is known about the effect of foreign-origin teachers on students’ academic achievement. This study investigates whether foreign-origin teachers causally affect their students’ academic performance. Exploiting within-student variation in assignment to teachers in Germany, I find that teachers who are immigrants or descendants of immigrants significantly increase the reading comprehension of their students in secondary school, but do not affect their math skills. This study is the first to investigate bilingualism as a potential mechanism and shows that the effect on reading comprehension is driven by bilingual foreign-origin teachers. Given their own experience in language learning, they seem exceptionally well-equipped to teach languages. This study contributes to the scant evidence on the causal relationship between teachers’ foreign origin and students’ academic achievement in light of a large and persistent achievement gap between native and foreign-origin students.
Determination of phenolic content and bioactive characterization of Anatolian propolis
Authors: Can Zehra , Birinci Ceren , Kara Yakup , Esertaş Ülkü Zeynep Üreyen , Kolaylı Sevgi
Published: April 2024

In this study, propolis referred to as of Türkiye Anatolian propolis was utilized. This work was aim to prepare a 70% ethanolic extract of propolis and subsequently determine certain biochemical parameters, total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), phenolic and flavonoid composition, inhibitory effects on certain enzymes [acetylcholinesterase (AChE), urease, and alpha-amylase], along with assessments of antiviral activity against Vero cells, lung cancer cells (A549), and breast cancer cells (MDA-MB-231). The richness of phenolic content in Anatolian propolis clearly indicates a high inhibitory effect on these enzymes. Additionally, it was observed to exert significant effects on cancer cells and demonstrated effective antiviral activity. It can be contemplated that the Anatolian propolis might serve as a potential source for novel drugs, and the isolation of its compounds could offer opportunities for utilization in traditional medicine.
CD200 is overexpressed in the pancreatic tumor microenvironment and predictive of overall survival
Authors: Wedig Jessica , Jasani Shrina , Mukherjee Debasmita , Lathrop Hannah , Matreja Priya , Pfau Timothy , D’Alesio Liliana , Guenther Abigail , Fenn Lexie , Kaiser Morgan , Torok Molly A. , McGue Jake , Sizemore Gina M. , Noonan Anne M. , Dillhoff Mary E. , Blaser Bradley W. , Frankel Timothy L. , Culp Stacey , Hart Phil A. , Cruz-Monserrate Zobeida , Mace Thomas A.
Published: April 2024

Pancreatic cancer is an aggressive disease with a 5 year survival rate of 13%. This poor survival is attributed, in part, to limited and ineffective treatments for patients with metastatic disease, highlighting a need to identify molecular drivers of pancreatic cancer to target for more effective treatment. CD200 is a glycoprotein that interacts with the receptor CD200R and elicits an immunosuppressive response. Overexpression of CD200 has been associated with differential outcomes, depending on the tumor type. In the context of pancreatic cancer, we have previously reported that CD200 is expressed in the pancreatic tumor microenvironment (TME), and that targeting CD200 in murine tumor models reduces tumor burden. We hypothesized that CD200 is overexpressed on tumor and stromal populations in the pancreatic TME and that circulating levels of soluble CD200 (sCD200) have prognostic value for overall survival. We discovered that CD200 was overexpressed on immune, stromal, and tumor populations in the pancreatic TME. Particularly, single-cell RNA-sequencing indicated that CD200 was upregulated on inflammatory cancer-associated fibroblasts. Cytometry by time of flight analysis of PBMCs indicated that CD200 was overexpressed on innate immune populations, including monocytes, dendritic cells, and monocytic myeloid-derived suppressor cells. High sCD200 levels in plasma correlated with significantly worse overall and progression-free survival. Additionally, sCD200 correlated with the ratio of circulating matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 3: tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP) 3 and MMP11/TIMP3. This study highlights the importance of CD200 expression in pancreatic cancer and provides the rationale for designing novel therapeutic strategies that target this protein.
Per-class curriculum for Unsupervised Domain Adaptation in semantic segmentation
Authors: Alcover-Couso Roberto , SanMiguel Juan C. , Escudero-Viñolo Marcos , Carballeira Pablo
Published: April 2024

Accurate training of deep neural networks for semantic segmentation requires a large number of pixel-level annotations of real images, which are expensive to generate or not even available. In this context, Unsupervised Domain Adaptation (UDA) can transfer knowledge from unlimited synthetic annotations to unlabeled real images of a given domain. UDA methods are composed of an initial training stage with labeled synthetic data followed by a second stage for feature alignment between labeled synthetic and unlabeled real data. In this paper, we propose a novel approach for UDA focusing the initial training stage, which leads to increased performance after adaptation. We introduce a curriculum strategy where each semantic class is learned progressively. Thereby, better features are obtained for the second stage. This curriculum is based on: (1) a class-scoring function to determine the difficulty of each semantic class, (2) a strategy for incremental learning based on scoring and pacing functions that limits the required training time unlike standard curriculum-based training and (3) a training loss to operate at class level. We extensively evaluate our approach as the first stage of several state-of-the-art UDA methods for semantic segmentation. Our results demonstrate significant performance enhancements across all methods: improvements of up to 10% for entropy-based techniques and 8% for adversarial methods. These findings underscore the dependency of UDA on the accuracy of the initial training. The implementation is available at https://github.com/vpulab/PCCL.
Safety and feasibility of early discharge after transcatheter aortic valve implantation with ACURATE Neo—the POLESTAR trial
Authors: Ooms Joris F. , Cornelis Kristoff , Wijeysundera Harindra C. , Vandeloo Bert , Van Der Heyden Jan , Kovac Jan , Wood David , Chan Albert , Wykyrzykowska Joanna , Rosseel Liesbeth , Cunnington Michael , van der Kley Frank , Rensing Benno , Voskuil Michiel , Hildick-Smith David , Van Mieghem Nicolas M.
Published: April 2024

Background

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) serves a growing range of patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS). TAVI has evolved to a streamlined procedure minimizing length of hospital stay.

Aims

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of an early discharge (ED) strategy after TAVI.

Methods

We performed an international, multi-center, prospective observational single-arm study in AS patients undergoing TAVI with the ACURATE valve platform. Eligibility for ED was assessed prior to TAVI and based on prespecified selection criteria. Discharge ≤ 48 h was defined as ED. Primary Valve Academic Research Consortium (VARC)-3-defined 30-day safety and efficacy composite endpoints were landmarked at 48 h and compared between ED and non-ED groups.

Results

A total of 252 patients were included. The median age was 82 [25th–75th percentile, 78–85] years and the median Society of Thoracic Surgeons Predicted Risk of Mortality (STS-PROM) score was 2.2% [25th–75th percentile, 1.6–3.3]. ED and non-ED were achieved in 173 (69%) and 79 (31%) patients respectively. Monitoring for conduction disturbances was the principal reason for non-ED (33%). Overall, at 30 days, all-cause mortality was 1%, new permanent pacemaker rate was 4%, and valve- or procedure-related rehospitalization was 4%. There was no difference in the primary safety and efficacy endpoint between the ED and non-ED cohorts (OR 0.84 [25th–75th percentile, 0.31–2.26], p = 0.73, and OR 0.97 [25th–75th percentile, 0.46–2.06], p = 0.94). The need for rehospitalization was similarly low for ED and non-ED groups.

Conclusion

Early discharge after TAVI with the ACURATE valve is safe and feasible in selected patients. Rhythm monitoring and extended clinical observation protracted hospital stay.

Graphical Abstract

Safety and feasibility of early discharge after transcatheter aortic valve implantation with ACURATE Neo, an international multi-center, prospective observational single-arm study. OR, odds ratio (95% confidence interval); VARC, Valve Academic Research Consortium
Transepithelial phototherapeutic keratectomy for treatment-resistant recurrent corneal erosion syndrome
Authors: Bizrah Mukhtar , Shunmugam Maheshver , Ching Geoffrey , Patel Radhika P. , Din Nizar , Lin David T. C. , Holland Simon P.
Published: April 2024

Background

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of trans-epithelial phototherapeutic keratectomy (TE-PTK) as a treatment for recurrent corneal erosion syndrome (RCES) in patients with symptoms refractory to conventional treatments.

Methods

All patients who received TE-PTK treatment for RCES had failed 3 or more conventional treatments and were reviewed, and if met criteria, approved by healthcare workers of the British Columbia public health authority (Medical Services Plan (MSP). A retrospective chart review and telephone survey were conducted at the Pacific Laser Eye Centre (PLEC). Exclusion criteria were ocular co-morbidities potentially affecting treatment efficacy.

Results

This study included 593 eyes of 555 patients (46.2% male; 50.9 ± 14.2 years old) who underwent TE-PTK. The leading identified causes of RCES were trauma (45.7%) and anterior basement membrane dystrophy (44.2%). The most common pre-PTK interventions were ocular lubricants (90.9%), hypertonic solutions (77.9%), and bandage contact lenses (50.9%). Thirty-six eyes had undergone surgical interventions such as stromal puncture, epithelial debridement, or diamond burr polishing. Post-PTK, 78% of patients did not require any subsequent therapies and 20% required ongoing drops. Six patients (1.1%) reported no symptom improvement and required repeat TE-PTK for ongoing RCES symptoms after initial TE-PTK. All 6 eyes were successfully retreated with TE-PTK (average time to retreatment was 11.3 ± 14.9 months). There was no significant difference in best corrected visual acuity pre- vs. post-operatively. The mean post-operative follow-up was 60.5 months (range: 5–127 months).

Conclusion

TE-PTK has a good efficacy and safety profile for treatment-resistant RCES. The third-party public health–reviewed nature of this study, the low recurrence rate of RCES, and the low PTK retreatment rate suggest that TE-PTK might be considered for wider use in the management of RCES.
Influenza vaccine uptake in juvenile idiopathic arthritis: a multi-centre cross-sectional study
Authors: Maritsi Despoina , Dasoula Foteini , Ziv Amit , Bizjak Maša , Balažiová Barbora , Matošević Matija , Yildiz Mehmet , Alpert Noa , Lamot Lovro , Kasapcopur Ozgur , Dallos Tomáš , Uziel Yosef , Toplak Natasa , Heshin-Bekenstein Merav
Published: April 2024

While most countries provide safe and effective influenza vaccines for at-risk groups, influenza vaccine coverage among children with rheumatic diseases remains uncertain. This study investigated influenza vaccination rates in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) during the 2019–2020 season and assessed the knowledge and attitudes of caregivers of children with JIA regarding influenza vaccination. The secondary aims were to identify barriers to vaccination and explore strategies to improve vaccination rates. A multi-centre, cross-sectional anonymous survey was conducted in 7 countries during the 2019–2020 influenza season to assess the uptake history of influenza vaccination. Among 287 participants, only 87 (30%) children with JIA received the influenza vaccine during the 2019–2020 season. Children who were more likely to be vaccinated were those with systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (sJIA), a history of previous vaccination and those aware of the vaccination recommendations. Conversely, children who previously experienced adverse vaccine-related events reported the lowest uptake. The primary reason for non-vaccination was lack of awareness about the necessity of influenza vaccination.

  Conclusion: Despite variations among countries, the uptake of influenza vaccines remains low in children with JIA. Improving awareness among families about the importance of influenza vaccination may increase vaccination rates in children with rheumatic diseases.

What is Known:• Rheumatic children are at increased risk for influenza infection due to immunosuppressive therapy and immune dysregulation.• Influenza vaccine is formally recommended to children with rheumatic diseases.

What is New:• This multicentre study showed that influenza vaccine uptake rates remain suboptimal among children with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis despite formal recommendations.• Factors like previous experience with vaccination and information provided by medical professionals via different ways play essential roles in increasing vaccination rates and can contribute to improved health outcomes for these vulnerable children.
Minimal residual disease in systemic light chain amyloidosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Li Xuefeng , Yu Yan , Yu Hongbin , Chen Mengran , Zhang Xin , Wu Yu
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Minimal residual disease (MRD) is a validated prognostic factor in several hematological malignancies. However, its role in systemic light chain (AL) amyloidosis remains controversial, and this systematic review and meta-analysis aims to fill this gap.

Methods

We searched for relevant studies on Pubmed, Embase, and Cochrane Controlled Register of Trials, nine studies involving 451 patients were included and meta-analyzed. This systematic review has been registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023494169).

Results

Our study found that in the group of patients who achieved very good partial response (VGPR) or better, MRD negativity was correlated with higher cardiac and renal response rates [pooled risk ratio (RR) = 0.74 (95% CI 0.62–0.89), 0.74 (95% CI 0.64–0.87), respectively]. Patients with MRD positivity had a higher hematologic progression rate within two years after MRD detection [pooled RR = 10.31 (95% CI 2.02–52.68)]; and a higher risk of hematologic + organ progression in the first year [pooled RR = 12.57 (95% CI 1.73–91.04)]. Moreover, MRD negativity was correlated with a better progression-free survival (PFS) [pooled hazard ratio (HR) = 0.27 (95% CI 0.17–0.45)]; but it did not significantly improve the overall survival (OS) [pooled HR = 0.34 (95% CI 0.11–1.07)].

Conclusion

In AL amyloidosis, our study supports that MRD negativity correlates with higher cardiac or renal response rates and indicates a better PFS in the follow-up. However, the correlation between OS and the status of MRD is not significant.
Deep learning-powered multimodal biometric authentication: integrating dynamic signatures and facial data for enhanced online security
Authors: Salturk Serkan , Kahraman Nihan
Published: April 2024

The significant increase in online activities in the wake of recent global events has underlined the importance of biometric person authentication on digital platforms. Although many biometric devices may be used for precise biometric authentication, acquiring the necessary technology, such as 3D sensors or fingerprint scanners, can be prohibitively expensive and logistically challenging. Addressing the demands of online environments, where access to specialized hardware is limited, this paper introduces an innovative approach. In this work, by fusing static and dynamic signature data with facial data captured through regular computer cameras, a dataset of 1750 samples from 25 individuals is constructed. Deep learning models, including convolutional neural networks (CNN), long short-term memory (LSTM), gated recurrent unit (GRU), and temporal convolutional networks (TCN), are employed to craft a robust multi-classification model. This integration of various deep learning algorithms has demonstrated remarkable performance enhancements in biometric authentication. This research also underscores the potential of merging dynamic and static biometric features, derived from readily available sources, to yield a high-performance recognition framework. As online interactions continue to expand, the combination of various biometric modalities holds potential for enhancing the security and usability of virtual environments.
Moving contact problem of a functionally graded orthotropic coated half plane
Authors: Karabulut Pembe Merve , Çetinkaya İlkem Turhan , Oğuz Hüseyin , Çömez İsa
Published: April 2024

This paper develops a frictional moving contact model for a functionally graded (FG) orthotropic layer pressed by a rigid cylindrical punch. The FG orthotropic layer is fully bonded to the isotropic half-plane. The punch moves to the left on the layer at a constant subsonic velocity and a shear stress arises in the contact zone according to the Coulomb friction law. General expressions of displacements and stresses are derived with the help of the Fourier transform and Galilean transformation. Using boundary conditions, the moving contact problem is reduced to a Cauchy-type singular integral equation, the unknowns of which are contact stress and contact width. Gauss–Jacobi integration formula is used to solve the obtained singular integral equation. The effect of some parameters and material properties on the contact width, contact stress and in-plane stress are given in graphical forms and detailed numerical interpretations are presented.
A 3D printed acoustofluidic nozzle-diffuser microfluidic pump
Authors: Yetiskin Erturan , Gucluer Sinan , Erdem Ilayda , Ozcelik Adem
Published: April 2024

Microfluidic flow control systems are critical components for on-chip biomedical applications. This study introduces a new micropump for on-chip sample preparation and analysis by using an acoustic nozzle diffuser mechanism. The micropump implements a commercially available transducer and control board kit with 3D-printed fluid reservoirs. In this micropump, conic-shaped micro-holes on the metal sheet cover of the transducer are employed as oscillating nozzle diffuser micro arrays to achieve directional flow control. The micropump is shown to efficiently pump water and particle mixtures exceeding flow rates of 515 µl/min at a 12-volt input voltage. In addition, owing to the small size of the nozzle hole opening, larger particles can also be filtered out from a sample solution during fluid pumping enabling a new function. Importantly, the micropump can be fabricated and assembled without needing a cleanroom, making it more accessible. This feature is advantageous for researchers and practitioners, eliminating a significant barrier to entry. By combining commercially available components with 3D printing technology, this micropump presents a cost-effective and versatile solution for on-chip applications in biomedical research and analysis.
Artificial intelligence and edge computing for machine maintenance-review
Authors: Bala Abubakar , Rashid Rahimi Zaman Jusoh A. , Ismail Idris , Oliva Diego , Muhammad Noryanti , Sait Sadiq M. , Al-Utaibi Khaled A. , Amosa Temitope Ibrahim , Memon Kamran Ali
Published: April 2024

Industrial internet of things (IIoT) has ushered us into a world where most machine parts are now embedded with sensors that collect data. This huge data reservoir has enhanced data-driven diagnostics and prognoses of machine health. With technologies like cloud or centralized computing, the data could be sent to powerful remote data centers for machine health analysis using artificial intelligence (AI) tools. However, centralized computing has its own challenges, such as privacy issues, long latency, and low availability. To overcome these problems, edge computing technology was embraced. Thus, instead of moving all the data to the remote server, the data can now transition on the edge layer where certain computations are done. Thus, access to the central server is infrequent. Although placing AI on edge devices aids in fast inference, it poses new research problems, as highlighted in this paper. Moreover, the paper discusses studies that use edge computing to develop artificial intelligence-based diagnostic and prognostic techniques for industrial machines. It highlights the locations of data preprocessing, model training, and deployment. After analysis of several works, trends of the field are outlined, and finally, future research directions are elaborated
Barriers to Mental Health Care Transition for Youth and Young Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities and Co-occurring Mental Health Conditions: Stakeholders’ Perspectives
Authors: Mirzaian Christine B. , Deavenport-Saman Alexis , Hudson Sharon M. , Betz Cecily L.
Published: April 2024

Youth and young adults (YYA) with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) have high rates of co-occurring mental health (MH) conditions. The time during transition from pediatric to adult health and mental health care can be a very challenging, with risk of loss of services leading to poor outcomes. This study aimed to explore barriers to transition from pediatric to adult health and mental health care and services for individuals with IDD and co-occurring MH conditions, by eliciting the view of stakeholders, including disability advocates. Qualitative analysis was conducted using grounded theory, and themes were coded based upon the social-ecological model (SEM). We generated themes into multiple levels: the individual level, the family level, the provider level, the systems of care level, and the societal level. Stakeholders expressed a critical need to improve coordination between systems, and to increase provider availability to care for YYA with IDD and co-occurring MH conditions.
Factors Influencing the Integration of Traditional Medicine and Mainstream Medicine in Mental Health Services in West Africa: A Systematic Review Using Narrative Synthesis
Authors: Soori Batuuroh I. P. , Regmi Krishna , Pappas Yannis
Published: April 2024

This study explored the enablers and obstacles to the integration of traditional medicine and mainstream medicine in mental health services in West Africa. This study is a systematic review conducted in accordance with the relevant parts of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-analyses. Keywords searches were done in databases, and other reference lists were also searched. The Rainbow model of integrated care and a thematic analysis framework were used to account for the factors influencing the integration of traditional medicine and mainstream medicine in mental health services in West Africa. A total of 12 studies met the eligibility criteria after the evaluation of 6413 articles from databases and reference lists. The themes of: policy and implementation; different conceptualisation of mental health/referrals; trust issues, and education and training, were enablers or obstacles of integration depending on how they worked to facilitate or hinder integration. There was an indication of little integration of TM and MM at the macro, meso and micro levels in mental health services in West Africa. Though the study does cover all the West African states evenly, it is recommended that policy-makers and stakeholders interested in integration should ensure integration activities, especially policies, cut across all the levels of the rainbow model of integrated care and are planned and aligned at the macro, meso and micro levels instead of using ad hoc measures, informal initiatives or placing TM services in MM mental health services, which do not amount to integration.
Impact of an EFL Digital Application on Learning, Satisfaction, and Persistence in Elementary School Children
Authors: Hori Rikito , Fujii Makoto , Toguchi Takaaki , Wong Steven , Endo Masayuki
Published: April 2024

There is a lack of research evaluating the effects of digital textbooks and digital apps on learning for early elementary school learners. Therefore, this study conducted a randomized controlled trial to evaluate how an iPad application for learning English as a foreign language impacted children’s grammar understanding, satisfaction, persistence, and confidence compared to a digital textbook. A total of 119 Japanese first- and second-graders participated in the study. They were randomly divided into groups studying English using “digital books” or “applications” over five days. Pre- and post-intervention tests and questionnaires were used to measure their understanding of the study content, satisfaction, persistence, and confidence in English. Application-based learning was more effective than digital books in terms of grammar comprehension and was significantly better for satisfaction and persistence. The results suggested the use of specific criteria for selecting multimedia learning materials, including a high degree of learner control, autonomy to manipulate the learning environment, feedback on learning activities, and guaranteed interactions with the learning materials.
Does Support for Professional Development in Early Childhood and Care Settings Matter? A Study in Four Countries
Authors: Cadima Joana , Ferreira Tiago , Guedes Carolina , Alves Diana , Grande Catarina , Leal Teresa , Piedade Filipe , Lemos Ana , Agathokleous Andri , Charalambous Vicky , Vrasidas Charalambos , Michael Demos , Ciucurel Manuela , Chirlesan Georgeta , Marinescu Bogdan , Duminica Delia , Vatou Anastasia , Tsitiridou-Evangelou Maria , Zachopoulou Evridiki , Grammatikopoulos Vasilis
Published: April 2024

Professional Development (PD) can be a powerful lever for improving the quality of teacher-child interactions in early childhood education and care (ECEC) and teachers’ feelings of support and competence. However, there is a dearth of studies examining different formats of PD and their links with workplace features. The present study aims to understand (a) different types of PD participation (structured and center-embedded) and their levels of interest of preschool teachers in four European countries (Cyprus, Greece, Portugal, and Romania), and (b) the extent to which they are associated with PD incentives and perceived support. Participants were preschool teachers from Cyprus (N = 93; Mage = 41; SD = 7.47), Greece (N = 92; Mage = 40; SD = 9.81), Portugal (N = 92; Mage = 45; SD = 9.65), and Romania (N = 97; Mage = 40; SD = 10.40). The vast majority of participants were women (95-99%). Participants reported on PD attendance – structured (courses/seminars, conferences) and center-embedded (e.g., observation visits, peer and/or self-observation) –, levels of interest in PD; PD incentives (e.g., release from working with children; reimbursement/payment of costs); and perceived workplace support. Results from the Multi-Group Path Models showed that, in all countries, the provision of incentives was associated with increased participation in center-embedded PD, but not in structured PD. Additionally, the perceived support from their setting was positively associated with greater interest in PD. Understanding what best supports different types of PD can be critical to inform policy efforts aiming to increase PD attendance.
“I’m a bit out of place here.”—Preservice teachers’ positioning in the figured world of university mathematics
Authors: Gildehaus Lara , Liebendörfer Michael , Heyd-Metzuyanim Einat
Published: April 2024

Preservice mathematics teachers are sometimes trained in programs so that they have both their own courses and joint courses with mathematics majors from the beginning of their studies. While this is thought to provide them with both deep mathematical knowledge and teaching-specific content right from the start, many of them report disaffection with and disengagement from mathematics during their very first semester. Current approaches often frame this from an individual’s perspective, investigating cognitive and affective individual differences among students. In contrast, we aim to understand this issue from a sociocultural perspective, examining underlying social processes. In this study, we thus explored preservice teachers’ experiences of the mathematics component of their training, using Holland and colleagues’ theory of figured worlds as a theoretical lens. Three group interviews with 14 preservice higher secondary teachers in a common mixed setting in Germany (one course specific to preservice teachers, one general mathematics course together with major students) were analyzed. Our findings displayed that the preservice teachers experienced two dichotomous figured worlds of mathematics and mathematics teaching. Our further analysis of their positioning between these worlds provided new insights to explain their disaffection, disengagement, and consequent learning behavior. We discuss practical implications, focusing on different teaching systems and interventions in teacher education.
Momentum and energy considerations in self-aerated free-surface flows
Authors: Chanson Hubert , Nina Yvan Aroquipa
Published: April 2024

In high-velocity free-surface flows, the interactions between the fast-flowing flow and the atmosphere can lead to strong air–water mixing through the free-surface. The flow resistance may be derived from momentum and energy considerations. This was undertaken through some theoretical development based upon an extension of traditional integral approaches to air–water flows, with the re-analyses of detailed air–water measurements in both prototype spillways and large-size physical models. Both the momentum and energy approaches yielded close results in terms of the Darcy-Weisbach friction factor. Based upon the same data sets, the absence of correction coefficients was found to under-estimate the residual energy, compared to the detailed calculations using the relevant air–water kinetic energy and pressure correction coefficients. The finding has basic design implications, which are discussed.
Drivers of European housing prices in the new millennium: demand, financial, and supply determinants
Authors: Melecky Ales , Paksi Daniel
Published: April 2024

Many countries in Europe have experienced a steady increase in housing prices over the past decade, which continued even during the recent crisis. We analyze a panel of 15 European countries over the period 2000–2020. We find that demand-side determinants, such as GDP, unemployment, wage and population, strongly influence housing prices. Nevertheless, we suggest that construction costs, access to finance (credit to GDP), and financing costs (long-term interest rate) should be included to avoid biased results. We find that financial development can significantly affect housing prices in the long run. We confirm the robustness of our results by conducting a lag sensitivity analysis of selected determinants. In addition, we find a negative effect of the GFC and a positive effect of the Covid crisis on housing prices. Furthermore, we find that countries with a mild reaction to or a quick recovery from the GFC experienced significantly higher housing price growth.
Detecting your depression with your smartphone? – An ethical analysis of epistemic injustice in passive self-tracking apps
Authors: Faissner Mirjam , Kuhn Eva , Müller Regina , Laacke Sebastian
Published: April 2024

Smartphone apps might offer a low-threshold approach to the detection of mental health conditions, such as depression. Based on the gathering of ‘passive data,’ some apps generate a user’s ‘digital phenotype,’ compare it to those of users with clinically confirmed depression and issue a warning if a depressive episode is likely. These apps can, thus, serve as epistemic tools for affected users. From an ethical perspective, it is crucial to consider epistemic injustice to promote socially responsible innovations within digital mental healthcare. In cases of epistemic injustice, people are wronged specifically as epistemic agents, i.e., agents of the production and distribution of knowledge. We suggest that epistemic agency relies on different resource- and uptake-related preconditions which can be impacted by the functionality of passive self-tracking apps. We consider how this can lead to different forms of epistemic injustice (testimonial, hermeneutical, and contributory injustice) and analyze the influence of the apps’ use on epistemic practices on an individual level, in mental healthcare settings, and on the structural level.
Resistance not resilience traits structure macroinvertebrate communities in newly drying stream sections
Authors: Bozóki Tamás , Várbíró Gábor , Csabai Zoltán , Schmera Dénes , Boda Pál
Published: April 2024

Transitioning from perennial to non-perennial flow regimes causes ecological shifts in aquatic communities. Aquatic macroinvertebrates deploy resistance and resilience strategies to cope with flow intermittency, crucial in rivers with long-term seasonal dry episodes. Less is known, about how these strategies support community persistence in streams that only recently have experienced drying, and where local assemblages lack such adaptations. Our study conducted two four-season campaigns, separated by a one-year break, to assess macroinvertebrate responses in newly drying intermittent streams by comparing intermittent and perennial stream sections. We characterize communities from structural and functional perspectives, and then evaluate the response at the trait state level. We observed a decline in taxa richness and abundance, but not structural diversity, in response to flow intermittency. Resistance traits are more important than resilient traits in structuring macroinvertebrate communities in newly intermittent stream sections. Taxa in intermittent sections exhibit a smaller trait space, indicating lower functional redundancy. The macroinvertebrate response to intermittency lacks a predictable pattern, suggesting time-dependent and trait-state-specific colonization by adapted taxa and community assembly with resistance and resilience strategies. As river drought increases due to climate change, recognizing the temporal dimension becomes crucial for understanding ecological responses to intermittency.
Utilizing artificial intelligence in academic writing: an in-depth evaluation of a scientific review on fertility preservation written by ChatGPT-4
Authors: Safrai Myriam , Orwig Kyle E.
Published: April 2024

Purpose

To evaluate the ability of ChatGPT-4 to generate a biomedical review article on fertility preservation.

Methods

ChatGPT-4 was prompted to create an outline for a review on fertility preservation in men and prepubertal boys. The outline provided by ChatGPT-4 was subsequently used to prompt ChatGPT-4 to write the different parts of the review and provide five references for each section. The different parts of the article and the references provided were combined to create a single scientific review that was evaluated by the authors, who are experts in fertility preservation. The experts assessed the article and the references for accuracy and checked for plagiarism using online tools. In addition, both experts independently scored the relevance, depth, and currentness of the ChatGPT-4’s article using a scoring matrix ranging from 0 to 5 where higher scores indicate higher quality.

Results

ChatGPT-4 successfully generated a relevant scientific article with references. Among 27 statements needing citations, four were inaccurate. Of 25 references, 36% were accurate, 48% had correct titles but other errors, and 16% were completely fabricated. Plagiarism was minimal (mean = 3%). Experts rated the article’s relevance highly (5/5) but gave lower scores for depth (2–3/5) and currentness (3/5).

Conclusion

ChatGPT-4 can produce a scientific review on fertility preservation with minimal plagiarism. While precise in content, it showed factual and contextual inaccuracies and inconsistent reference reliability. These issues limit ChatGPT-4 as a sole tool for scientific writing but suggest its potential as an aid in the writing process.
Identifying the Correlates of Individual, Peer and Systemic Advocacy Among Parents of Children with Disabilities Who are Interested in Civic Engagement
Authors: Burke Meghan M. , Li Chak , Cheung Waifong Catherine , Johnston Amanda , Best Megan , Fulton Kelly , Hardy Abby , Rossetti Zach
Published: April 2024

Parent advocacy is often critical for families of individuals with disabilities. Prior research has suggested that parent advocacy occurs across three levels: individual, peer, and systemic. Yet, little empirical research has identified the correlates of advocacy for each level. For this study, we examined the survey responses of 246 parents of individuals with disabilities who were interested in participating in a legislative advocacy program. Analyses included hierarchical regressions to identify the correlates of individual, peer, and systemic advocacy. Parents of children with autism were significantly more likely to engage in individual advocacy. Parents who identified as Black (versus other racial groups) advocated significantly more on a systemic level. Further, malleable factors such as empowerment and motivation correlated positively with advocacy. Implications for research and practice are discussed.
Next-generation probiotics: the upcoming biotherapeutics
Authors: Al-Fakhrany Omnia Momtaz , Elekhnawy Engy
Published: April 2024

Recent and continuing advances in gut microbiome research have pointed out the role of the gut microbiota as an unexplored source of potentially beneficial probiotic microbes. Along the lines of these advances, both public awareness and acceptance of probiotics are increasing. That’s why; academic and industrial research is dedicated to identifying and investigating new microbial strains for the development of next-generation probiotics (NGPs). At this time, there is a growing interest in NGPs as biotherapeutics that alter the gut microbiome and affect various diseases development. In this work, we have focused on some emergent and promising NGPs, specifically Eubacterium hallii, Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, Roseburia spp., Akkermansia muciniphila, and Bacteroides fragilis, as their presence in the gut can have an impact on the development of various diseases. Emerging studies point out the beneficial roles of these NGPs and open up novel promising therapeutic options. Interestingly, these NGPs were found to enhance gastrointestinal immunity, enhance immunotherapy efficacy in cancer patients, retain the intestinal barrier integrity, generate valuable metabolites, especially short-chain fatty acids, and decrease complications of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Although many of these NGPs are considered promising for the prevention and treatment of several chronic diseases, research on humans is still lacking. Therefore, approval of these microbes from regulatory agencies is rare. Besides, some issues limit their wide use in the market, such as suitable methods for the culture and storage of these oxygen-sensitive microbes. The present review goes over the main points related to NGPs and gives a viewpoint on the key issues that still hinder their wide application. Furthermore, we have focused on the advancement in NGPs and human healthiness investigations by clarifying the limitations of traditional probiotic microorganisms, discussing the characteristics of emerging NGPs and defining their role in the management of certain ailments. Future research should emphasize the isolation, mechanisms of action of these probiotics, safety, and clinical efficacy in humans.
How to compute multivariate Bessel expansions
Authors: Durán Antonio J. , Pérez Mario , Varona Juan L.
Published: April 2024

We develop a constructive method for computing explicitly multivariate Bessel expansions of the type $$\begin{aligned} \sum _{m\ge 1} \alpha _m \prod _{i=1}^k \frac{J_{\mu _i}(\zeta _m x_i)}{(\zeta _m x_i)^{\mu _i}}, \end{aligned}$$

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Performance improvement of the triangular matrix product in commodity clusters
Authors: Santamaria-Valenzuela Inmaculada , Carratalá-Sáez Rocío , Torres Yuri , Llanos Diego R. , Gonzalez-Escribano Arturo
Published: April 2024

There are many works devoted to improving the matrix product computation, as it is used in a wide variety of scientific applications arising from many different fields. In this work, we propose alternative data distribution policies and communication patterns to reduce the elapsed time when computing triangular matrix products in distributed memory environments. In particular, we focus on commodity clusters, where the number of nodes is limited, proposing alternatives to traditional approaches in order to improve this operation’s performance. Our proposal overcomes the performance results associated with the state-of-the-art libraries, such as ScaLAPACK and SLATE, offering execution times that are up to 30% faster.
Regression analysis for the determination of microplastics in sediments using differential scanning calorimetry
Authors: Schirrmeister Sven , Kurzweg Lucas , Gjashta Xhoen , Socher Martin , Fery Andreas , Harre Kathrin
Published: April 2024

This research addresses the growing need for fast and cost-efficient methods for microplastic (MP) analysis. We present a thermo-analytical method that enables the identification and quantification of different polymer types in sediment and sand composite samples based on their phase transition behavior. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) was performed, and the results were evaluated by using different regression models. The melting and crystallization enthalpies or the change in heat capacity at the glass transition point were measured as regression analysis data. Ten milligrams of sea sand was spiked with 0.05 to 1.5 mg of microplastic particles (size: 100 to 200 µm) of the semi-crystalline polymers LD-PE, HD-PE, PP, PA6, and PET, and the amorphous polymers PS and PVC. The results showed that a two-factorial regression enabled the unambiguous identification and robust quantification of different polymer types. The limits of quantification were 0.13 to 0.33 mg and 0.40 to 1.84 mg per measurement for semi-crystalline and amorphous polymers, respectively. Moreover, DSC is robust with regard to natural organic matrices and allows the fast and non-destructive analysis of microplastic within the analytical limits. Hence, DSC could expand the range of analytical methods for microplastics and compete with perturbation-prone chemical analyses such as thermal extraction–desorption gas chromatography–mass spectrometry or spectroscopic methods. Further work should focus on potential changes in phase transition behavior in more complex matrices and the application of DSC for MP analysis in environmental samples.