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Cognitive engagement in Chinese adult EFL learners with different proficiency levels in speaking tasks
Get PDFNumerous studies have highlighted the influence of language proficiency on the cognitive engagement (i.e., a learner’s mental efforts in a learning process) of adult second language (L2) learners during group speaking activities. However, researchers have not treated the interplay between cognitive engagement and proficiency levels in speaking task types, such as storytelling and group discussions, in much detail. Understanding this interplay can facilitate L2 teachers to employ appropriate pedagogy and teaching strategies for better learning outcomes. Therefore, this small-scale classroom-based study aimed to delve into the impact of language proficiency on cognitive engagement by exploring the differences between adult L2 learners of varying proficiency levels during collaborative speaking tasks. The investigation employed Yin’s (1994) case study methodology, loosely described as an in-depth investigation of some specific cases to understand complex phenomena. This methodology enables in-depth exploration of cognitive engagement, a multi-faceted and dynamic construct. Thus, this current study concentrated on two groups: one comprised three highly proficient advanced learners, and the other consisted of two moderately proficient intermediate learners. All participants took part in four consecutive task-based lessons (encompassing varied task types, including trait matching, summary, and discussion) within a story-based workshop featuring narrative stories as learning materials. There were various sources of data, including video recordings of the lessons, the learners’ notes from the lessons, their task responses, the teacher/researcher’s field notes, and stimulated-recall interviews with the participants after the lessons. The data were subjected to thematic and discourse analysis. The findings revealed that learners in different language proficiency levels showed great variations in their cognitive engagement in the three stages (preparation, presentation, and interaction) of three speaking task types. These variations lied in the cognitive engagement strategies, depth of information processing, and language outcomes. Furthermore, this study identified multiple factors, such as cognitive conflicts, self-efficacy, task familiarity, and vocabulary, which would influence cognitive engagement in adult L2 learners. Implications of this study and suggestions for future research and language practitioners were then discussed
Quantitative Systems Pharmacology Models of Anti‐Amyloid Treatments for Alzheimer's Disease: A Systematic Review
Get PDFQuantitative systems pharmacology (QSP) models have emerged as useful tools for evaluating the efficacy of Alzheimer's disease (AD) therapies. Bringing together a clinical focus with the mechanistic detail of systems biology, QSP models are well suited to the complexity of AD and have been used to predict treatment outcomes and support regulatory submissions. Therapies targeting the amyloid pathway are prominent in the AD clinical trial landscape, with anti‐amyloid monoclonal antibodies representing the first approved disease‐modifying therapies. To inform and facilitate future QSP model development, a systematic review of published QSP models focused on amyloid‐targeting therapies for AD was completed. The PubMed and Web of Science databases were searched on February 1, 2025, identifying 540 candidate publications. Predefined exclusion and inclusion criteria were applied to identify seven published AD QSP models used to simulate treatment effects for one or more anti‐amyloid therapies. The structure, development, and predictions of the models were summarized. Shared and contrasting model features were identified across included models. A set of model quality features was scored against a checklist of 15 criteria adapted from “best practice” guidelines for QSP. Model quality scores were generally low, ranging from 40% to 53%. Key quality issues related to model validation and reproducibility were identified; in particular, none of the seven papers provided executable model code. This systematic review provides useful context to support ongoing efforts to develop and refine QSP models such that they may better inform therapeutic strategies for the treatment of AD
Exploring Size-Controlled Exciton Evolution Using DNA Libraries
Get PDFTo investigate multichromophore phenomena, progress traditionally relies on model covalent dimers for spectroscopic interrogation. Integrating molecular semiconductors into nucleic acid libraries can enable rapid screening of multichromophore phenomena. Here, we report DNA-directed assembly of up to five π-conjugated chromophores that demonstrate charge separation and electronic delocalization phenomena. We integrate a range of porphyrins and perylene diimides (PDIs)molecular semiconducting materials widely used in organic electronic devicesin DNA, encoding nearest-neighbor assembly through base-sequence programmed hybridization. In this way, we can assemble multicomponent stacks with tailored electronic properties from a central chromophore-DNA library. This allows dimer and multimer production on demand, within hours, from presynthesized DNA-chromophores for spectroscopic analysis. We demonstrate the library’s ability to optimize for charge transfer, computationally prescreening for close π-stacking as a proxy for large orbital overlap and exchange energy. Our modular DNA assembly reveals opportunities for rapid development of simple, bespoke chromophore architectures with stoichiometric chromophore control and ordering
Subduction Zone Magnetism: The Influence of Metamorphism and Serpentinization in the Mantle Wedge
Get PDFPlain Language Summary: The mantle wedge is a triangular prism of rock that lies between an overlying tectonic plate and underlying subducting slab in a subduction zone. Rocks from the mantle wedge have been brought up from great depth and exposed on the surface of Santa Catalina Island/Pimu'nga, USA. Samples collected from the island provide a rare opportunity to directly study an ancient hydrated mantle wedge. We are particularly interested in the magnetic properties of these samples, which affect surface magnetic measurements. We find at least two compositionally distinct groups of magnetic minerals formed through different processes: (a) metamorphic change and (b) hydration reactions. The two magnetic types of magnetic mineral possess different magnetic properties, and so affect surface magnetic measurements in different ways. Surface magnetic measurements can be used to infer subduction zone thermal structure, which is greatly important for assessing their potential as seismic and volcanic hazards. As such, a better understanding of the magnetic properties of mantle rock can facilitate improvements in understanding the natural hazards associated with subduction zones
Genomic analysis of the genetic background underlying Streptococcus pneumoniae beta-lactam nonsusceptibility in central Vietnam: increased beta-lactam nonsusceptibility and dynamics of the pbp2x gene
Get PDFBackground: We previously reported alarmingly high carriage rates of Streptococcus pneumoniae (SP) serotype 19F and serogroup 6 isolates, which were not susceptible to multiple beta-lactams among children under five years of age in Vietnam. Multilocus sequence typing analysis revealed the predominance of two major lineages, ST320 and ST13223, among serotype 19F and serogroup 6 isolates, respectively. Investigating the association between nonsusceptible genotypes and clinical outcomes could help optimize patient care or lead to the development of new diagnostic tests. Methods: We performed WGS on SP isolates randomly selected from the two major lineages and their related strains. FASTQ quality control and de novo assembly were performed using CLC Genomics Workbench ver. 7.5.1. Draft genome sequences were annotated using DFAST (DDBJ Fast Annotation and Submission Tool), which revealed the serogroups/serotypes and the sequences of the three major penicillin-binding protein genes and the sequence types. Draft sequences were aligned using MUMmer ver. 3.23, and putative recombination events and phylogenetic relationships excluding recombination regions were identified using Gubbins ver. 2.4.1. Finally, the association between a detected nonsusceptible genotype and the duration of hospital stay was evaluated in patients with acute respiratory infection. Results: WGS analysis (serotype 19F/ST320, n = 22; serogroup 6/ST13223, n = 13; and isolates closely related to ST13223, n = 4) revealed substantial differences in genomic diversity and antimicrobial susceptibility between serogroup 6/ST13223 and serotype 19F/ST320 isolates, particularly the recombination-prone nature of serogroup 6/ST13223. Among the 23 recombination events observed in serogroup 6/ST13223, only those spanning the pbp2x region (15.5 kb and 6.4 kb) were associated with high MICs for multiple beta-lactams. A subset of ST13223 isolates and all ST320 isolates carried the identical pbp2x allele 16, which was significantly associated with a lack of susceptibility to the combination of penicillin, cefotaxime, and meropenem (p < 0.0001; odds ratio 11.5; 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.35–39.3). No significant association was demonstrated between the presence of this pbp2x allele and prolonged hospitalization (p = 0.6123). Conclusions: We revealed that the widespread nonsusceptibility to multiple beta-lactams among SP isolates circulating in central Vietnam was primarily driven by the dynamics of the pbp2x gene. However, the nonsusceptible pbp2x allele had little effect on clinical outcome
SCMR 2026 in Brazil: developing generalist AI methods for cardiovascular magnetic resonance and strengthening regional collaboration in Latin America: IET Travel Award Report
Get PDFI am Ricardo A. Gonzales, a postdoctoral research fellow at Harvard Medical School working on AI in medical imaging. I attended the Society for Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance (SCMR) Annual Scientific Sessions in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, with support from an IET Travel Award. I am grateful to the IET and the Postgraduate and Travel Awards Panel for enabling my participation at an international forum focused on advancing cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) research and clinical practice. The meeting was professionally valuable because it combined scientific exchange with relationship-building. It was also personally meaningful to take part in a major CMR meeting hosted in Latin America, my hometown region, and to see strong regional participation
Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors in Malignant Melanoma: Anti-PD-1, Anti-CTLA-4 and Anti-LAG-3 Therapies
Get PDFPurpose of Review: Despite advances over the past decade, malignant melanoma remains associated with poor survival outcomes and an increasing incidence, particularly in older populations. Traditional radio- and chemotherapeutic approaches have shown limited efficacy, whereas immunotherapy has emerged as a promising treatment option owing to the immunogenic nature of most melanoma subtypes. This review aims to explore the biological rationale for immune checkpoint inhibition in melanoma and its therapeutic implications. Recent Findings: Advances in understanding physiologic immune checkpoint regulation through co-stimulatory and co-inhibitory pathways have led to the development of effective immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), particularly those targeting PD-1 and CTLA-4. These agents have significantly improved overall survival in melanoma; however, a substantial proportion of patients either fail to respond or eventually develop resistance. Ongoing clinical studies are elucidating mechanisms of immune evasion, refining response prediction biomarkers, and exploring combination strategies to overcome resistance and enhance durable remission. Summary: Immune checkpoint inhibition represents a major therapeutic milestone in malignant melanoma, transforming outcomes for many patients. Nevertheless, resistance and non-responsiveness remain key clinical challenges. Continued investigation into tumor–immune system interactions and rational combination approaches will be critical for optimizing the efficacy and durability of ICIs in melanoma treatment
Perceptions and willingness to reduce meat consumption among consumers in the United Arab Emirates: a cross-sectional analysis
Get PDFBackground: Growing global concern over the health and environmental impacts of meat consumption has intensified interest in sustainable dietary practices. Understanding consumer attitudes and behaviors around meat reduction is essential to inform effective public health strategies. This study explored consumer perceptions, behaviors, and awareness related to meat consumption and sustainable diets in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Methods: A cross-sectional web-based survey was conducted among 1,371 adults across all seven emirates. The questionnaire assessed meat consumption frequency, awareness of sustainability, willingness to reduce meat intake, and preferences for meat alternatives. Descriptive and inferential analyses were used to identify key patterns and associations. Results: Participants reported frequent red-meat consumption, with a median of 1 eating occasions per week (IQR 0.5–3) for unprocessed red meat and 0.5 eating occasions per week (IQR 0.5–1) for processed red meat. Eggs, dairy, and fish were the most frequently consumed alternatives, while plant-based options were less commonly used. Only 7% expressed strong willingness to reduce meat intake, with health concerns (49.4%) being the most common motivation. Environmental (17.4%) and animal welfare (10.7%) concerns were less frequently reported. Cultural norms (44.2%) and taste preferences (33.5%) were leading barriers. Sustainability was rated as very important by only 12.2%. No significant associations were found between willingness to reduce meat intake and demographic or health-related characteristics (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Findings underscore the limited readiness among UAE consumers to reduce meat consumption, despite moderate awareness of sustainability. Targeted, culturally tailored interventions are needed to address barriers and promote plant-based dietary habits that support both public health and environmental goals
Health technology assessment system in Switzerland: Current state, gaps, and prospects for improvement
Get PDFSwitzerland maintains a distinct HTA system that often aligns with EU requirements and reflects its unique healthcare governance model, with structured processes led by the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH), despite lacking a comprehensive national framework. These processes, though sometimes limited in scope, produce nationally binding decisions. This study aims to comprehensively analyze and understand the key pillars of the national HTA system, identify obstacles, and propose insights to strengthen the HTA system in Switzerland. This system analysis study was conducted between 2021 and 2023, targeting key Swiss HTA-associated organizations and experts from various health sectors. Mixed methods were used to gather data using electronic institutional surveys completed by nine organizations to assess HTA technical aspects and virtual in-depth interviews (IDIs) with eight experts to understand HTA from a policy perspective. The study examined HTA practices in the Swiss organizations, comprising 67% academic, 22% public, and 11% non-governmental sectors. Findings revealed that 67% of the organizations mentioned that structured processes were led by the FOPH as the central agency (67%). While 56% (n = 5) of organizations reported substantial funding, challenges included a lack of government funding. In Switzerland, HTAs most frequently addressed safety, clinical effectiveness, and economic aspects, while social acceptability and feasibility were less commonly considered. Strong interest in expanding HTA capacity was expressed. However, there is limited awareness and advocacy for HTA, insufficient political support, limited institutional capacity, and persistent gaps in funding. The study highlights the importance of HTA in healthcare decision-making and resource allocation in Switzerland, and the need for addressing the integration gap of HTA into decision-making. Enhancing awareness and institutional strengthening are key to advancing HTA. This study offers insights to guide future research and to establish a national HTA agency, to improve integration and coordination of HTA across all Swiss Cantons
A bio-inspired configuration and algorithm for vibration source localization and its biological implications
Get PDFVibration source localization is an interdisciplinary topic with applications in both engineering and biology. To inspire technologies for use in engineering and understand how spiders may localize a vibration source, we develop a bio-inspired vibration source localization configuration and algorithm. The algorithm first calculates leg inputs using a backward filter forward smoother algorithm with leg responses; it then estimates the source angle, source distance, substrate wave speed and decay rate through optimization, utilizing the time and amplitude relationships between the calculated leg inputs. The algorithm effectiveness is validated through simulations. Results show that the algorithm gives accurate estimation of the source angle and wave speed with varying source distance, source angle, wave speed and decay rate, with errors typically within 3 deg (absolute) and 6% (relative), respectively. The algorithm cannot estimate the source distance. To locate the position, two spider-like agents would be used collaboratively. The algorithm works well even for leg responses with low signal-to-noise ratio. Results also show that the four-leg combination which includes front and back two legs is the minimum leg requirement. Increasing the leg–substrate contact damping can improve the algorithm accuracy. These results also give us new insights into how spiders may localize a vibration source