bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of high-performing antibodies for tyrosine-protein kinase SYK for use in Western Blot, immunoprecipitation and immunofluorescence
Authors: Alshafie Walaa , Fotouhi Maryam , Ayoubi Riham , Southern Kathleen , Laflamme Carl ,   NeuroSGC/YCharOS collaborative group
Published: June 2024

Tyrosine-protein kinase SYK, encoded by the SYK gene, is a non-receptor type protein kinase which mediates immune signal transduction through immunoreceptors. Tyrosine-protein kinase SYK expression has been associated with the development of various inflammatory diseases, cancer and neurodegenerative conditions. The reproducibility of tyrosine-protein kinase SYK research would help elucidate the mechanism in which it causes neuroinflammation as well as its potential as a novel target to treat Alzheimer’s disease. This would be facilitated with the availability of high-quality tyrosine-protein kinase SYK. In this study, we characterized thirteen tyrosine-protein kinase SYK commercial antibodies for Western Blot, immunoprecipitation, and immunofluorescence using a standardized experimental protocol based on comparing read-outs in knockout cell lines and isogenic parental controls. We identified many high-performing antibodies and encourage readers to use this report as a guide to select the most appropriate antibody for their specific needs.
Paradoxical Leadership and Employee Proactive Work Behavior: Exploring the Mediating Role of Perceived Psychological Contract Fulfillment.
Authors: Elshaer Ibrahim , Azazz Alaa M. S. , Abdulaziz Tamer Ahmed , Fayyad Sameh
Published: June 2024

Background This study delves into the intricate interplay among paradoxical leadership (PL), employees’ proactive work behaviour (EPWB), and perceived psychological contract fulfilment (PPCF). PL, characterized by its simultaneous emphasis on apparently contradictory behaviours, has garnered attention due to its potential to foster innovation, adaptability, and creativity. The study’s main objective is to thoroughly explore the complexities of PL, its influence on EPWB, and whether the PPCF serves as a mediator. Methods A survey was distributed to 338 hotel and travel agency employees to gather data. The data was analysed using structural equation modelling through a SmartPLS program. Results The results reveal a positive correlation between PL and EPWB. Additionally, PPCF partially mediates this relationship, indicating its vital role in exploring the positive impact of PL on boosting proactive behaviours. Conclusions This research brings forth meaningful contributions to both theoretical and practical dimensions. Theoretically, it enhances our comprehension of how PL manifests in the distinctive landscape of the hospitality and tourism domain, substantiating its potential to drive proactive behaviours among employees. The mediation of PPCF enriches our grasp of the underlying mechanisms, accentuating the significance of maintaining harmonized and consistent leadership practices. From a practical vantage point, these findings offer valuable insights for hospitality and tourism establishments aspiring to optimize their leadership strategies for cultivating proactive work behaviour among their workforces.
Wings of Change: aPKC/FoxP-dependent plasticity in steering motor neurons underlies operant self-learning in Drosophila
Authors: Ehweiner Andreas , Duch Carsten , Brembs Björn
Published: June 2024

Background Motor learning is central to human existence, such as learning to speak or walk, sports moves, or rehabilitation after injury. Evidence suggests that all forms of motor learning share an evolutionarily conserved molecular plasticity pathway. Here, we present novel insights into the neural processes underlying operant self-learning, a form of motor learning in the fruit fly Drosophila. Methods We operantly trained wild type and transgenic Drosophila fruit flies, tethered at the torque meter, in a motor learning task that required them to initiate and maintain turning maneuvers around their vertical body axis (yaw torque). We combined this behavioral experiment with transgenic peptide expression, CRISPR/Cas9-mediated, spatio-temporally controlled gene knock-out and confocal microscopy. Results We find that expression of atypical protein kinase C (aPKC) in direct wing steering motoneurons co-expressing the transcription factor FoxP is necessary for this type of motor learning and that aPKC likely acts via non-canonical pathways. We also found that it takes more than a week for CRISPR/Cas9-mediated knockout of FoxP in adult animals to impair motor learning, suggesting that adult FoxP expression is required for operant self-learning. Conclusions Our experiments suggest that, for operant self-learning, a type of motor learning in Drosophila, co-expression of atypical protein kinase C (aPKC) and the transcription factor FoxP is necessary in direct wing steering motoneurons. Some of these neurons control the wing beat amplitude when generating optomotor responses, and we have discovered modulation of optomotor behavior after operant self-learning. We also discovered that aPKC likely acts via non-canonical pathways and that FoxP expression is also required in adult flies.
Overcoming barriers to career progression for mid-career female physician-scientists: Insights and solutions
Authors: Yakar Derya , Haan Marieke , Ongena Yfke P , Hesselink Mithra , Schuit Stephanie CE , Kwee Thomas C , Mourits Marian JE
Published: June 2024

Background Gender equity in academia is a significant challenge. To investigate career advancement perspectives of mid-career female physician-scientists, identify their needs and barriers, and develop a mentor-sponsorship strategy to improve their representation in higher academic ranks. Methods In this qualitative study, conducted at a Western European academic medical center, we interviewed 19 mid-career female physician-scientists across all specialties, including radiology. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results Four themes were identified: 1. Horizontal and vertical ambitions, (i.e., knowledge expansion and hierarchical advancement) 2. Evaluation of talent, 3. Career path needs, and 4. Receiving support. These themes revealed barriers to women's advancement, including limited talent recognition, inadequate leadership support, self-limiting beliefs, structural issues, and lack of networking opportunities. To address these challenges, a mentor-sponsorship program should prioritize sponsor training, start immediately at the beginning of the mid-career phase (attainment of assistant professorship), emphasize horizontal and vertical development, take work-life balance into account, establish mentor networks, and allow individuals to choose mentors and sponsors based on their needs and aspirations. Conclusions This study has identified key needs and barriers that impede the advancement of female physician-scientists in academia. To address these challenges, a tailored mentor-sponsorship program is recommended. Key program elements include training leadership to recognize talent and offer proactive support, starting at the onset of the mid-career phase, emphasizing horizontal and vertical development, and establishing a strong mentor-sponsor network with thoughtful matching. These actions can help to overcome obstacles and facilitate the progress of women in academia.
Factors Affecting the Corporate Security of Companies
Authors: Lomeyko A.
Published: June 2024

Corporate security is a comprehensive system of measures designed to protect an organization's assets, data, employees, and reputation from potential threats. This article discusses various factors that can increase an organization's vulnerability to security threats. The independent and combined effects of internal controls, such as training programs and data protection protocols, as well as external threats such as cyber-attacks, physical intrusions and economic espionage, are being investigated.

A key aspect of the analysis is the idea of synergy in the field of security. The article argues that a well-coordinated approach combining various security measures into a single whole creates a more effective protection strategy. The analysis of the interdependencies between the various controls highlights the importance of implementing a strategic threat management program that goes beyond individual solutions. By contributing to a comprehensive understanding of vulnerabilities and the effectiveness of synergistic security measures, the article aims to equip organizations with the knowledge and tools to develop and implement effective threat management programs that protect their critical assets and contribute to long-term success.
The impact of land use and land cover changes on ecosystem service value in Aceh Besar Regency, Aceh, Indonesia
Authors: Achmad Ashfa , Ramli Ichwana , Nizamuddin Nizamuddin , Gunawan Arief , Fakhrana Siti Zahrina
Published: June 2024

Land use and land cover (LULC) have a significant impact on changes in the value of ecosystem services. Therefore, this study investigated the relationship between ecosystem service value (ESV) and LULC in Aceh Besar Regency by calculating nine ESV variables, namely gas regulation (GR), water supply (WS), soil formation (SF), waste treatment (WT), biodiversity protection (BP), food production (FP), raw materials (RM), recreation (RC), and culture (CT) on each type of land cover in Aceh Besar Regency in three years: 2000, 2010 and 2020. The results showed that both decades saw in all three years, there was a decrease in the value of the forest ecosystem in Aceh Besar Regency due to the addition of activities and population needs, resulting in the conversion of forest land into built-up areas. This indicates that there is a relationship between land use and land cover change and human activities that have the potential to negatively affect the value of ecosystem services.
Time to Stop? An Empirical Investigation on the Consequences of Canceling Monetary Incentives on a Digital Platform
Authors: Zhang Dongcheng , Jiang Hanchen , Qiang Maoshan , Zhang Kunpeng , Qiu Liangfei
Published: June 2024

Practice- and Policy-Oriented Abstract

Digital platforms commonly use monetary incentives to motivate users to perform specific tasks. Existing studies have shown the effects of introducing such monetary rewards on task participation and performance on public platforms. However, little is known about the impact of canceling rewards, and particularly less attention is paid to corporate platforms. Our study examines the impact of canceling monetary incentives using quasi-natural experiments on a corporate platform. We find that canceling monetary incentives is not simply the reverse process of their introduction. Specifically, compared with the increase in task participation when rewards were initially introduced, canceling these rewards leads to a sharper decrease in participation. Additionally, although introducing rewards has no significant effect on task performance, canceling rewards causes a significant decline in performance. These results suggest that canceling monetary rewards has a net negative impact on task participation and performance. Furthermore, we examine the heterogeneity of this impact concerning user motivation types and working competency levels. We also discuss the similarities and differences between corporate and public platforms in the impact of monetary incentives. Our results provide important practical implications for enterprise information systems and general information systems regarding their design of incentive strategies.
The Co-Production of Service: Modeling Services in Contact Centers Using Hawkes Processes
Authors: Daw Andrew , Castellanos Antonio , Yom-Tov Galit B. , Pender Jamol , Gruendlinger Leor
Published: June 2024

In customer support contact centers, every service interaction involves a messaging dialogue between a customer and an agent; together, they exchange information, solve problems, and collectively co-produce the service. Because the service progression is shaped by the history of conversation thus far, we propose a bivariate marked Hawkes process cluster model of the customer-agent interaction. To evaluate our stochastic model of service, we apply it to an industry contact center data set containing nearly 5 million messages. Through both a novel residual analysis comparison and several Monte Carlo goodness-of-fit tests, we show that the Hawkes cluster model indeed captures dynamics at the heart of the service and surpasses classic models that do not incorporate the service history. Furthermore, in an entirely data-driven simulation, we demonstrate how this history-dependent model can be leveraged operationally to inform a prediction-based routing policy. We show that widely used and well-studied customer routing policies can be outperformed with simple modifications according to the Hawkes model. Through analysis of a stylized model proposed in the contact center literature, we prove that service heterogeneity can cause this underperformance and, moreover, that such heterogeneity will occur if service closures are not carefully managed.

This paper was accepted by Elena Katok, operations management.

Funding: The authors are grateful for the generous support of this work by the National Science Foundation Division of Graduate Education [Grant DGE-1650441] (A. Daw), the Israel Science Foundation [Grant 336/19] (G. B. Yom-Tov), and the United States-Israel Binational Science Foundation [Grant 2022095] (A. Daw, G. B. Yom-Tov).

Supplemental Material: The online appendix and data files are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2021.04060 .
Perturbed Utility Stochastic Traffic Assignment
Authors: Yao Rui , Fosgerau Mogens , Paulsen Mads , Rasmussen Thomas Kjær
Published: June 2024

This paper develops a fast algorithm for computing the equilibrium assignment with the perturbed utility route choice (PURC) model. Without compromise, this allows the significant advantages of the PURC model to be used in large-scale applications. We formulate the PURC equilibrium assignment problem as a convex minimization problem and find a closed-form stochastic network loading expression that allows us to formulate the Lagrangian dual of the assignment problem as an unconstrained optimization problem. To solve this dual problem, we formulate a quasi-Newton accelerated gradient descent algorithm (qN-AGD*). Our numerical evidence shows that qN-AGD* clearly outperforms a conventional primal algorithm and a plain accelerated gradient descent algorithm. qN-AGD* is fast with a runtime that scales about linearly with the problem size, indicating that solving the perturbed utility assignment problem is feasible also with very large networks.

Funding: This work has been financed by the European Union—NextGenerationEU.
Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated disease (MOGAD) initially presenting as septic meningoencephalitis in a 16-year-old male
Authors: Karavassilis Maria Elizabeth , Chernov Dmitriy , Dakhlia Sinda , Saravanan Paramalingam
Published: June 2024

Background: We describe a case of myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated disease (MOGAD) in a 16-year-old patient who initially presented with clinical features of septic meningoencephalitis. This case outlines the importance of considering a diagnosis of MOGAD in patients who fail to improve with appropriate antimicrobial therapy or show a positive clinical response to glucocorticoids (often used in treatment of meningococcal meningitis). We emphasise the importance of recognising that an infectious prodrome can precede MOGAD. Case description: A 16-year-old male was admitted with vomiting, fever, headache, photophobia and altered mental state. He was treated for meningoencephalitis with initial clinical improvement. Lumbar puncture findings were suggestive of viral meningoencephalitis. During admission the patient went through several periods of transient clinical and biochemical improvement, alternating with periods of symptomatic relapse. On day 17 of admission, he was transferred to a tertiary centre for suspected autoimmune disseminated meningoencephalitis (ADEM) and two days later, he suffered a catastrophic neurological decline with new dysarthria, dysphagia, aphasia, horizontal nystagmus and facial paralysis. He made a remarkable neurological recovery after commencing treatment with IV immunoglobulin, IV methylprednisolone and plasma exchange, with complete resolution of symptoms. Conclusion: MOGAD can run a variable course and present soon after a central nervous system infection, making the diagnosis more challenging. Nonetheless, patients can achieve a full neurological recovery with early recognition, diagnosis and treatment of this rare entity.
Mismatched expectations: experiences of nurses returning to prescribing
Authors: McCulloch Margot , Wood Alison F
Published: June 2024

Background:

Research has identified continuing professional development for active prescribers to be a challenge; particularly a lack of confidence and anxiety around prescribing. Anecdotally, support to regain prescribing knowledge and competence to facilitate safe prescribing requires some exploration for organisations, mangers and practitioners.

Aim:

To obtain an insight into practitioners’ experiences of returning to prescribing in their clinical role following a period of non-activity.

Methods:

Online semi-structured interviews with five prescribers were conducted, with interview transcripts thematically analysed by the research team.

Results:

Four themes were generated: individual; the team; the organisation; and the mismatch between the three.

Conclusion:

Considering these results is important to support those who return to prescribing to ensure safe and effective practice, and a positive experience for all involved.
Breast cancer characterization using region-based convolutional neural network with screening and diagnostic mammogram
Authors:   Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand, Wongnil Jaroonroj , Krisanachinda Anchali ,   Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand, Lipikorn Rajalida ,   Machine Intelligence and Multimedia Information Technology Laboratory, Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
Published: June 2024

Background: Detection and classification of microcalcifications in breast tissues is crucial for early breast cancer diagnosis and long-term treatment. Objective: This paper aims to propose a robust model capable of detection and classification of breast cancer calcifications in digital mammogram images using Deep Convolutional Neural Networks (DCNN). Materials and methods: An expert breast radiologist annotated the 3,265 clinical mammogram images to create a comprehensive ground truth dataset comprising 2,500 annotations for malignant and benign calcifications. This dataset was utilized to train our model, a two-stage detection system incorporating a Region-based Convolutional Neural Network (RCNN) with AlexNet and support vector machines to enhance the system’s robustness. The proposed model was compared to the one-stage detection, utilizing YOLOv4 combined with the Cross-Stage Partial Darknet53 (CSPDarknet53) architecture. A separate dataset of 504 mammogram images was explicitly set aside for model testing. The efficacy of the proposed model was evaluated based on key performance metrics, including precision, recall, F1 score, and mean average precision (mAP). Results: The results showed that the proposed RCNN-2 model could automatically identify and categorize calcifications as malignant or benign, outperforming the YOLOv4 models. The RCNN-2’s overall effectiveness, as evaluated by precision, recall, F1 score, and mean average precision (mAP), achieved scores of 0.82, 0.85, 0.83, and 0.74, respectively. Conclusion: The proposed RCNN-2 model demonstrates very effective detection and classification of calcification in mammogram images, especially in high-dense breast images. The performance of the proposed model was compared to that of YOLOv4, and it can be concluded that the proposed RCNN model yields outstanding performance. The model can be a helpful tool for radiologists.
Watery Imaginings: Exploring the Watercolor Odysseys of Alessandro Sanna
Authors: Campagnaro Marnie
Published: June 2024

Abstract: Alessandro Sanna, an Italian painter and illustrator, is well known internationally for his bright watercolor odysseys and visual reinterpretations of great classics like Don Quixote, Moby Dick, and Pinocchio. Sanna, Italy’s first Children’s Laureate and three-time Italian Premio Andersen winner, frequently captivates young audiences with wordless visual narratives that use bright water-based inks in novel and creative ways. His most recent visual storytelling voyage, In canto (2023), in collaboration with Giusi Quarenghi’s evocative poetry, draws on past works such as Fiume Lento (2013)—a silent, visual historical account of il Po, Italy’s largest river, thereby establishing his definitive status in contemporary Italian children’s literature.
Shaping Christianity in Calagurris: Prudentius’s renouatio of Ambrose in Peristephanon 1
Authors: Kirsch Kathleen M.
Published: June 2024

Abstract: At the close of the fourth century, the ideal shape of Christianity was hotly contested. The veneration of saints and their relics, the significance of celibacy and asceticism, the nature of Christ, and many other aspects of faith and spirituality were disputed. A profusion of literary works, extant and not, explicitly addressed the intricate web of debated topics; Prudentius’s Peristephanon 1, however, has been understood in isolation from this cultural and ideological contest. This article identifies Ambrose’s Hymn . 10 as a significant source for Peri . 1; the former provided Prudentius with a framework upon which he built a narrative of martial martyrdom and of saintly identity for the unstoried relics in his hometown of Calagurris. Peri. 1 repurposes Hymn. 10’s vocabulary, concepts, classical allusions, and a dynamic of envy ( inuidia ) directed by the historical persecutor against the contemporary audience. The purpose of the poet’s renouatio , however, is more than hagiographical expansion; Prudentius replicates Ambrosian tropes to define his local Christian community in relation to its patronal martyrs. Peri . 8 builds on the foundation of Peri . 1, portraying the martyrs of Calagurris as not only patrons but also imitable models for the city’s residents. Emeterius and Chelidonius become the exemplars of both historical and contemporary Calagurran Christianity. Thus, Prudentius uses an Ambrosian exemplar to provide a localized response to the discourse of the day, deliberated throughout the empire.
Geomorphic Response to the Removal of the Ward's Mill Dam on the Watauga River, North Carolina
Authors: Platt Josh R. , Martin Derek J. , Armstrong William H. , Mayfield Michael W.
Published: June 2024

abstract: Though economic situations of individual dams vary, current dam removal studies largely indicate that ecological benefits of river re-connectivity may outweigh the costs of maintaining aging infrastructure. However, there is a lack of comprehensive studies in certain regions of the United States, including Southern Appalachia. We used the removal of the 6-meter-high Ward's Mill Dam on the Watauga River in North Carolina to conduct a before-after/control-impact study to monitor geomorphic impacts to such removals in this understudied region with the objective of identifying changes in channel form, analyzing bed sediment characteristics, and quantifying rates of volumetric evacuation and deposition. To capture geomorphic change repeated pre- and post-removal cross-sectional surveys, longitudinal profiles, and in-situ particle size sampling was conducted in upstream and downstream reaches. Field collections the day after removal show significant deposition of gravel sized particles immediately downstream of the dam (≤200 m). Channel bed texture remains significantly finer across the 2 km downstream study reach 506 days following removal. Erosion rates of the impoundment during the deconstruction period were on average ~860 m3/day and decreased to 75.5 m3/day by day 74. Below average mean daily flows during this period were able to exhume ~62.9 percent of impounded sediment.
Stranger Things": Exploring the Infrastructures of Pollution in Columbia, SC
Authors: Thornton Jill , Kneas David
Published: June 2024

abstract: In 2010, a toxic tar-like material (TLM) was discovered in the riverbed of a popular Congaree River boat launch site near downtown Columbia, South Carolina. In this article, we examine the novel infrastructural form that emerged to deal with this waste, a temporary cofferdam that was built in 2022 as an integral element in the Congaree River Sediment Cleanup project. In doing so, we consider what we call the short and long histories of the cofferdam's construction. These histories provide a way of glimpsing into how post-industrial landscapes and infrastructures are shaped by an inexhaustible list of potentially impactful factors both within and beyond contaminated spaces. We argue that the short history of the cofferdam's size, shape, composition, and age have been shaped by its long history of factors that include potential unexploded Civil War ordnance, the presence of threatened and endangered species, and state and non-state actor relationships. This case study invites us to think more broadly about the presence of coal tar as an index, object, and constituent of different environment infrastructural forms.
Multi-scale hyperspectral recovery networks: RGB-hyperspectral imaging consistency empowered deep spectral super-resolution
Authors: Li Chen , Xiao Zhibo , Wang Shouyu
Published: June 2024

Hyperspectral imaging, which analyzes a spectrum of light instead of primary colors, can provide rich physical and chemical information not regularly available to traditional imaging modalities. To physically obtain hyperspectral images, various methods have been designed relying on dispersion elements, filters, and coded masks, inevitably making the system complicated and expensive. To address these challenges, emerging deep neural networks can achieve spectral super-resolution by tackling the ill-posed problem, thereby enhancing the spectral recovery capabilities of RGB cameras. However, most of them ignore the consistency in spatial structure between the RGB and hyperspectral images, which can provide additional physical prior knowledge for spectral super-resolution tasks. To increase the fidelity of hyperspectral recovery from RGB images, we propose multi-scale hyperspectral recovery networks (MHRNs), designed to take full consideration of the consistency. In addition, physical constraints are employed to train MHRNs for better performance and interpretability. The spectral super-resolution applicability of the MHRN on publicly available datasets as well as practical applications suggests that it has great potential for advancing spectral recovery across various practical applications such as remote sensing, medical imaging, agricultural testing, and industrial inspection.
Random lasing in micron-sized individual supraparticles
Authors: Ta Van Duong , Nguyen Toan Van , Doan Tung Anh , Duong Dung Chi , Caixeiro Soraya , Saxena Dhruv , Sapienza Riccardo
Published: June 2024

Self-assembled fluorescent particles have shown promise as a potential structure for random lasers. However, obtaining micron-sized random lasers made with fluorescent particles remains a challenge. Theoretically, achieving micron-sized random lasers could be possible by assembling supraparticles composed of colloidal particles. Despite extensive research on supraparticles, the generation of random lasers from this structure is rarely reported. In this study, we introduce a rapid and efficient method for producing supraparticles from fluorescent particles. The resulting supraparticles exhibit diameters ranging from 50 to 150 µm with particles well-connected and uniformly distributed throughout their structure. Under optical excitation, supraparticles with a diameter larger than 80 µm demonstrate lasing emission with a threshold of approximately 77 μJ·mm−2. Larger supraparticles exhibit a distinct redshift in lasing wavelength compared to the smaller ones. Specifically, the central peak lasing wavelength shows a shift of about 7.5 nm as the supraparticle diameter increases from 80 to 150 μm.
Low complexity sub-baud rate sampling reception in a bandwidth-limited IM/DD system
Authors: Zhang Shenmao , Chang Xinyu , Dai Xiaoxiao , Cheng Mengfan , Yan Zhijun , Deng Lei , Yang Qi , Liu Deming
Published: June 2024

This Letter presents what is to our knowledge a novel approach to reduce the digital signal processing (DSP) complexity in intensity modulation and direct detection (IM/DD) systems, which is critical for short-reach optical communication systems with severe bandwidth limitations. We propose a sub-baud rate sampling reception method utilizing a polyphase feedforward equalizer-based maximum likelihood sequence estimation (PFFE-MLSE), which could operate effectively under a sampling rate of 0.6 samples per symbol. This new architecture eliminates the need for resampling, allowing the adaptive equalizer to operate with significantly reduced complexity—over 60% compared to traditional FFE-MLSE. An offline experiment, transmitting a 100-Gbaud on–off keying (OOK) signal over a 5-km single-mode fiber (SMF) link, demonstrates the feasibility of our approach with bit error ratio (BER) meeting the KP4-forward error correction (KP4-FEC) threshold in the optical back-to-back (OBTB) scenario and 7% hard-decision FEC (HD-FEC) threshold in the 5-km SMF transmission.
Cognition, physical function, and life purpose in the rural elderly population: A systematic review protocol
Authors: Morais Campos Hércules Lázaro , De Leon Elisa Brosina , Merllin Batista de Souza Ingred , Quialheiro Anna , Araújo de Oliveira Elizabete Regina
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Aging in rural settings worldwide, from the perspective of cognition, physical function, and life purpose essential constructs for a prosperous old age, still needs comprehensive discussion. This systematic review protocol aims to highlight the prevalence of cognitive decline, physical functioning, and life purpose in older adults aging in rural community settings.

Methods and analysis

We will include cross-sectional studies published until April 2023 found in 8 databases: Embase, MEDLINE, LILACS, PsycINFO, Scopus, SciELO, and Web of Science. Ryyan software will be used for the first selection, and the Observational Study Quality Evaluation (OSQE) will assess methodological quality and risk of bias. Primary analysis will involve titles and abstracts using MeSH descriptors such as "Physical functioning," "Cognition," "Cognitive function," "Life purpose," "Elderly," "Older," "Rural aging," "Rural population," "Communities, rural," "Distribution, rural spatial," "Medium communities," "Rural settlement," "Small community." If necessary, secondary analysis will include a complete reading of selected articles by two blinded reviewers, confirmed by a third person. Publication bias will be assessed using cross-sectional analytical study quality. Sensitivity analyses will identify manuscripts significantly influencing combined prevalence of endpoints.
Self-certification: A novel method for increasing sharing discernment on social media
Authors: Howe Piers Douglas Lionel , Perfors Andrew , Ransom Keith J. , Walker Bradley , Fay Nicolas , Kashima Yoshi , Saletta Morgan , Dong Sihan
Published: June 2024

The proliferation of misinformation on social media platforms has given rise to growing demands for effective intervention strategies that increase sharing discernment (i.e. increase the difference in the probability of sharing true posts relative to the probability of sharing false posts). One suggested method is to encourage users to deliberate on the veracity of the information prior to sharing. However, this strategy is undermined by individuals’ propensity to share posts they acknowledge as false. In our study, across three experiments, in a simulated social media environment, participants were shown social media posts and asked whether they wished to share them and, sometimes, whether they believed the posts to be truthful. We observe that requiring users to verify their belief in a news post’s truthfulness before sharing it markedly curtails the dissemination of false information. Thus, requiring self-certification increased sharing discernment. Importantly, requiring self-certification didn’t hinder users from sharing content they genuinely believed to be true because participants were allowed to share any posts that they indicated were true. We propose self-certification as a method that substantially curbs the spread of misleading content on social media without infringing upon the principle of free speech.
Electroencephalogram synchronization measure as a predictive biomarker of Vagus nerve stimulation response in refractory epilepsy: A retrospective study
Authors: Danthine Venethia , Cottin Lise , Berger Alexandre , Germany Morrison Enrique Ignacio , Liberati Giulia , Ferrao Santos Susana , Delbeke Jean , Nonclercq Antoine , El Tahry Riëm
Published: June 2024

There are currently no established biomarkers for predicting the therapeutic effectiveness of Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS). Given that neural desynchronization is a pivotal mechanism underlying VNS action, EEG synchronization measures could potentially serve as predictive biomarkers of VNS response. Notably, an increased brain synchronization in delta band has been observed during sleep–potentially due to an activation of thalamocortical circuitry, and interictal epileptiform discharges are more frequently observed during sleep. Therefore, investigation of EEG synchronization metrics during sleep could provide a valuable insight into the excitatory-inhibitory balance in a pro-epileptogenic state, that could be pathological in patients exhibiting a poor response to VNS. A 19-channel-standard EEG system was used to collect data from 38 individuals with Drug-Resistant Epilepsy (DRE) who were candidates for VNS implantation. An EEG synchronization metric–the Weighted Phase Lag Index (wPLI)—was extracted before VNS implantation and compared between sleep and wakefulness, and between responders (R) and non-responders (NR). In the delta band, a higher wPLI was found during wakefulness compared to sleep in NR only. However, in this band, no synchronization difference in any state was found between R and NR. During sleep and within the alpha band, a negative correlation was found between wPLI and the percentage of seizure reduction after VNS implantation. Overall, our results suggest that patients exhibiting a poor VNS efficacy may present a more pathological thalamocortical circuitry before VNS implantation. EEG synchronization measures could provide interesting insights into the prerequisites for responding to VNS, in order to avoid unnecessary implantations in patients showing a poor therapeutic efficacy.
Case-control study: Unveiling human polyomaviruses and papillomavirus in Egyptian colorectal cancer patients
Authors: Darwish Marwa K. , Allayeh Abdou K. , Ahmed Amr E. , Abdelmaksoud Mohamed D. E. , Alkhalil Samia S. , Ageeli Hakami Mohammed , Hassan Ahmed , Mohamed Mahmoud Farrag Haiam , Saif Eldin M. Mohamed Samah , Gouda Weaam
Published: June 2024

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a cancer type that is thought to be influenced by human papillomaviruses (HPVs) and human polyomaviruses (HPyVs). In Egypt, CRC ranks as the 7th most common cancer, accounting for 3.47% of male cancers and 3% of female cancers. However, there is currently a lack of information regarding the presence of PyVs and HPVs co-infection specifically in CRC cases in Egypt. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the occurrence of HPVs and HPyVs (JCPyV, BKPyV, and SV40) infections, as well as co-infections, among CRC patients in Egypt. Additionally, the study aimed to assess any potential association between these viral infections and tumor stages.

Methods

In the present study, we analyzed a total of 51 tissue samples obtained from Egyptian CRC patients, along with 19 polyps’ samples. Our investigation focused on the detection and genotyping of HPyVs using Real-Time PCR. Additionally, we employed real-time PCR for the detection of HPVs, and for their genotyping, we utilized a combination of PCR amplification followed by sequencing.

Results

In our study, we found evidence of HPyVs infection in the CRC patients, specifically SV40 (25.5%) and BKPyV (19.6%). However, JCPyV was not detected in the samples that were examined. Additionally, we discovered that HPV was present in 43.1% of the CRC patients. When considering viral co-infections, 19.6% of the CRC samples showed coexistence of multiple viruses, while no co-infections were found in the polyps samples. Importantly, we observed a significant correlation between the presence of HPVs and advanced colorectal tumor grades B2 and D.

Conclusion

Our findings provide valuable data for the detection of oncogenic viruses in colorectal cancer (CRC) and underscore the association of viral co-infections with advanced tumor stages. However, further research with larger cohorts is necessary to validate these findings and strengthen their significance in the field of CRC.
Prevalence and predictors of antibiotic prescription among patients hospitalized with viral lower respiratory tract infections in Southern Province, Sri Lanka
Authors: Medrano Perla G. , Weerasinghe Nayani , Nagahawatte Ajith , Vanderburg Sky , Park Lawrence P. , Wijayaratne Gaya B. , Devasiri Vasantha , Dilshan Buddhika , Sheng Tianchen , Kurukulasooriya Ruvini , Anderson Jack , Nicholson Bradly P. , Woods Christopher W. , Bodinayake Champica K. , Tillekeratne L. Gayani
Published: June 2024

Background

Antimicrobial overprescription is common for lower respiratory tract infections (LRTI), as viral and bacterial infections generally present with similar clinical features. Overprescription is associated with downstream antimicrobial resistance. This study aims to identify the prevalence and predictors of antibiotic prescription among patients hospitalized with viral LRTI.

Methods

A prospective cohort study was conducted among patients aged ≥1 year hospitalized with viral LRTI in a tertiary care hospital in Southern Province, Sri Lanka from 2018–2021. Demographic, clinical, and laboratory data were recorded. Nasopharyngeal and blood samples were collected for multiplex polymerase chain reaction testing for 21 respiratory pathogens and procalcitonin (PCT) detection, respectively. Demographic and clinical features associated with antibiotic prescription were identified using Chi Square and t-tests; significant variables (p<0.05) were further included in multivariable logistic regression models. The potential impact of biomarker testing on antibiotic prescription was simulated using standard c-reactive protein (CRP) and PCT cut-offs.

Results

Of 1217 patients enrolled, 438 (36.0%) had ≥1 respiratory virus detected, with 48.4% of these patients being male and 30.8% children. Influenza A (39.3%) and human rhinovirus/ enterovirus (28.3%) were most commonly detected. A total of 114 (84.4%) children and 266 (87.8%) adults with respiratory viruses were treated with antibiotics. Among children, neutrophil percentage (median 63.6% vs 47.6%, p = 0.04) was positively associated with antibiotic prescription. Among adults, headache (60.6% vs 35.1%, p = 0.003), crepitations/crackles (55.3% vs 21.6%, p<0.001), rhonchi/wheezing (42.9% vs 18.9%, p = 0.005), and chest x-ray opacities (27.4% vs 8.1%, p = 0.01) were associated with antibiotic prescription. Access to CRP and procalcitonin test results could have potentially decreased inappropriate antibiotic prescription in this study by 89.5% and 83.3%, respectively.

Conclusions

High proportions of viral detection and antibiotic prescription were observed among a large inpatient cohort with LRTI. Increased access to point-of-care biomarker testing may improve antimicrobial prescription.
Assessment of knowledge, attitudes, and practice regarding air pollution and health effects among general people: A multi-divisional cross-sectional study in Bangladesh
Authors: Siddique Abu Bakkar , Sujan Md. Safaet Hossain , Ahmed Sanjida , Ishadi Kifayat Sadmam , Tasnim Rafia , Islam Md. Saiful , Hossain Md. Shakhaoat
Published: June 2024

Background

Bangladesh is one of the most densely populated countries in the world, with more than one-third of its people living in cities, and its air quality is among the worst in the world. The present study aimed to measure knowledge, attitudes and practice (KAP) towards air pollution and health effects among the general population living in the large cities in Bangladesh.

Methods

A cross-sectional e-survey was conducted between May and July 2022 among eight divisions in Bangladesh. A convenience sampling technique was utilized to recruit a total of 1,603 participants (55.58% males; mean age: 23.84 ± 5.93 years). A semi-structured questionnaire including informed consent, socio-demographic information, as well as questions regarding knowledge (11-item), attitudes (7-item) and practice (11-item) towards air pollution, was used to conduct the survey. All analyses (descriptive statistics and regression analyses) were performed using STATA (Version 15.0) and SPSS (Version 26.0).

Results

The mean scores of the knowledge, attitudes, and practice were 8.51 ± 2.01 (out of 11), 19.24 ± 1.56 (out of 21), and 12.65 ±5.93 (out of 22), respectively. The higher scores of knowledge, attitudes, and practice were significantly associated with several socio-demographic factors, including educational qualification, family type, residential division, cooking fuel type, etc.

Conclusions

The present study found a fair level of knowledge and attitudes towards air pollution; however, the level of practice is not particularly noteworthy. The finding suggests the need to create more awareness among the general population to increase healthy practice to reduce the health effects of air pollution.
A needs analysis of ESP courses in colleges of art and design: Consensus and divergence
Authors: Mao Fengfan , Zhou Jiefeng
Published: June 2024

This study presents a comprehensive needs analysis of English for Specific Purposes (ESP) courses in colleges of art and design in China. By examining the perspectives of undergraduate students, graduate students, art teachers, and English teachers, the research identifies consensus and divergence in ESP needs and implementation challenges. The analysis reveals a strong demand among students for specialized English learning, with a particular emphasis on receptive and interactive skills. However, there is a widespread acknowledgement of students’ difficulties across ESP skills, indicating a gap between student competencies and the professional demands, thus highlighting the need for targeted educational interventions to effectively address the difficulties. Notably, reading and writing abilities emerge as the most lacking skills. While there is unanimous recognition of the positive impact of ESP on students’ professional abilities and international competitiveness, a significant disparity exists in the enthusiasm for implementing ESP courses, paticularly with resistence from English teachers. The study highlights the critical challenges in ESP teaching, with teacher qualifications identified as the most prominent issue. Interestingly, English teachers attribute difficulties primarily to teaching materials, indicating a potential lack of readiness for ESP course delivery. A gap is also observed between teachers’ evaluations of student abilities and students’ self-assessment, especially among undergraduate freshmen, suggesting an overestimation of their English proficiency in professional contexts. The paper concludes with the implication that for effective ESP course implementation in colleges of art and design in China, targeted faculty development programs and a collaborative approach involving English teachers, art teachers, and professionals are essential. The collaboration should aim to develop materials that integrate specific professional knowledge with linguistic expertise. Additionally, a balanced approach combining general English proficiency and specialized English training is recommended to address both foundational and specialized language skills. Overall, the study underscores the need for targeted ESP courses in art and design education, tailored to bridge the gap between current proficiency levels and professional language requirements.
The association between physical activity intensity and frailty risk among older adults across different age groups and genders: Evidence from four waves of the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Survey
Authors: Ma Di , Sun Yulin , Chen Guoyang , Hao Siwei , Jiang Zhenping , Wang Rui , Hao Shuaipeng
Published: June 2024

"Exercise is the best medicine" is well known, but the optimal dose of physical activity (PA) for males and females across different age groups is still unknown. This study, using data from the four waves of CHARLS, aimed to determine the optimal PA dose that reduces frailty risks among older adults across various age groups and both sexes. We created a frailty index score using 63 health-related variables and used 0.21 as the frailty cut point. Binary logistic regression was used to compare the effect of vigorous, moderate, and light intensity PA under IPAQ criteria on frailty risk. The study found that regardless of whether males or females, the optimal effect of vigorous-intensity PA in reducing the risk of frailty is consistently observed throughout the entire old age career. Moreover, the age groups at which moderate-intensity PA reduces the risk of frailty were from age 70 for males and from age 80 for females. And light-intensity PA had no effect on reducing the risk of frailty. Moderate and vigorous intensity of PA in older adults should be promoted, but guidelines and recommendations must account for optimal associations with PA dose across genders and age groups.
Five records of new and rare alien species to the flora of the United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Authors: Byalt Vyacheslav V. , Korshunov Michael V.
Published: June 2024

The article presents new records for five alien species previously unknown from the flora of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) or very rare in the country – Chenopodium ficifolium (Chenopodiaceae/Amaranthaceae s. l.), Acalypha indica, Euphorbia maculata (Euphorbiaceae), Gamochaeta pensylvanica (Gnaphalium pensylvanicum), and Verbesina encelioides (Asteraceae). Some of them have been recorded for the first time from the emirate Fujairah in north-eastern part of the UAE. Euphorbia maculata, which is rare in the country, was found only in “Salman Nursery” at Masafi town and in an irrigated garden near village Bithna, Chenopodium ficifolium was found in environs of Al Siji, in Wadi Siji on the road-dam and in “Al Phoenician Nursery” at Al Dibba town, Acalypha indica L. grows as weed in a plant market on the roadside in Al Bidya and in “The Green Nursery Sales Dibba” at Al Dibba town, they are new for the flora of Fujairah and UAE at all. Gamochaeta pensylvanica was found in a small quantity in a plant market and plant nursery in the Masafi friday market, and Verbesina encelioides – was found naturalized in Khor-Fakkan (Emirate of Sharjah) – both are very rare in the UAE.
Species, synonyms, spatial distribution, habitat preferences, and species taxonomy with remarks on identification and differentiation from the most similar taxa occurring in the study area, as well as the list of localities are presented. The herbarium materials were transferred to the Herbarium of the Komarov Botanical Institute (LE, St. Petersburg, Russia), the duplicates – to the Herbarium of Altai State University (ALTB, Barnaul, Russia) and the Scientific Herbarium of Fujairah (FSH, Wadi Wurayah national park, Fujairah, United Arab Emirates).