bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heterogeneous integration in silicon photonics: opportunities and challenges: opinion
Authors: Baets Roel , Rahim Abdul
Published: October 2023

The application span of silicon photonics is rapidly evolving from high speed transceivers for data- and telecommunication to a broad range of functionalities for many different markets, especially in the sensing and computing space. As a result, the demand for new building blocks and enhanced performance is accelerating and diversifying. Heterogeneous integration of new materials, chips and thin-film chiplets is becoming of key importance in this context. But the implementation of industrial supply chains for this diverse need will be challenging and may require a new supply chain model with dedicated standardization and test methods at the interface between the actors involved. This opinion article discusses opportunities and challenges associated with heterogeneous integration in silicon photonics, in particular with respect to future market growth and the design of process flows for heterogeneous integration.
Genome-scale metabolic modeling of the human gut bacterium Bacteroides fragilis strain 638R
Authors: Neal Maxwell , Thiruppathy Deepan , Zengler Karsten
Published: October 2023

Bacteroides fragilis is a universal member of the dominant commensal gut phylum Bacteroidetes. Its fermentation products and abundance have been linked to obesity, inflammatory bowel disease, and other disorders through its effects on host metabolic regulation and the immune system. As of yet, there has been no curated systems-level characterization of B. fragilis’ metabolism that provides a comprehensive analysis of the link between human diet and B. fragilis’ metabolic products. To address this, we developed a genome-scale metabolic model of B. fragilis strain 638R. The model iMN674 contains 1,634 reactions, 1,362 metabolites, three compartments, and reflects the strain’s ability to utilize 142 metabolites. Predictions made with this model include its growth rate and efficiency on these substrates, the amounts of each fermentation product it produces under different conditions, and gene essentiality for each biomass component. The model highlights and resolves gaps in knowledge of B. fragilis’ carbohydrate metabolism and its corresponding transport proteins. This high quality model provides the basis for rational prediction of B. fragilis’ metabolic interactions with its environment and its host.
Copper price prediction using LSTM recurrent neural network integrated simulated annealing algorithm
Authors: Chen Jiahao , Yi Jiahui , Liu Kailei , Cheng Jinhua , Feng Yin , Fang Chuandi
Published: October 2023

Copper is an important mineral and fluctuations in copper prices can affect the stable functioning of some countries’ economies. Policy makers, futures traders and individual investors are very concerned about copper prices. In a recent paper, we use an artificial intelligence model long short-term memory (LSTM) to predict copper prices. To improve the efficiency of long short-term memory (LSTM) model, we introduced a simulated annealing (SA) algorithm to find the best combination of hyperparameters. The feature engineering problem of the AI model is then solved by correlation analysis. Three economic indicators, West Texas Intermediate Oil Price, Gold Price and Silver Price, which are highly correlated with copper prices, were selected as inputs to be used in the training and forecasting model. Three different copper price time periods, namely 485, 363 and 242 days, were chosen for the model forecasts. The forecast errors are 0.00195, 0.0019 and 0.00097, respectively. Compared with the existing literature, the prediction results of this paper are more accurate and less error. The research in this paper provides a reliable reference for analyzing future copper price changes.
Nurses’ knowledge, attitudes and practices towards palliative care provided to patients diagnosed with cancer
Authors: Altarawneh Walaa Mohammed , Masa’deh Rami , Hamaideh Shaher H. , Saleh Ahmad M. , Alhalaiqa Fadwa
Published: October 2023

Aim and objectives

This study aimed to explore the levels of knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward palliative care (PC) among nurses working with patients diagnosed with cancer in Jordan.

Background

PC is a growing specialty in healthcare and nursing in Jordan with an increased need to expand its scope, develop policies to govern it, and increase the awareness of its importance especially for patients diagnosed with cancer.

Design

Cross sectional design was used in the current study.

Methods

Using an online self-report questionnaire data was collected from 228 nurses working at four hospitals in Amman. The four hospitals were from three different healthcare sectors: one public, one educational, and two private hospitals. A convenience sampling method was employed.

Results

Results showed a low level of PC knowledge (M = 8.8), a moderate level of attitudes (M = 80.9) toward dying patients, and a moderate level of PC practices (M = 52.7). Differences in PC knowledge, attitudes, and practices were found in regard to nurses’ gender, level of education, PC training, years of experience, and working sector. Significant correlations were found between PC practices with both PC knowledge and attitudes toward dying patients. No significant relationship between PC knowledge and attitudes toward dying patients.

Conclusion

Low level of PC knowledge and moderate level of attitudes toward dying patients. Differences in PC knowledge, attitudes, and practices were found in regard to some participants’ demographics.
Impact of regional accessibility on urban residents’ income in China: A bidirectional-fixed panel model
Authors: Liu Yahong , Tang Daisheng , Wang Fengyu , Bano Naila
Published: October 2023

The income gap between regions and its expansion are the main manifestations of the imbalanced and inadequate economic development in China. High-speed railway (HSR) construction is regarded as an important method to drive domestic demand, drive the pulse of the economy, and promote the coordinated development of regions. Based on the opening of HSR and the acceleration of ordinary railways, we used the weighted average travel time model and accessibility coefficient to estimate the changes on accessibility in 286 cities at prefecture-level and above from 2000 to 2018. Then, the influence mechanisms of improving regional accessibility on urban residents’ income were estimated by using the bidirectional-fixed effects panel model and the recursive model respectively. We found that: (1) The accessibility of urban areas has been greatly improved due to the opening of HSR and the acceleration of ordinary railway, among which the improvement of HSR cities is greater. (2) The improvement of regional accessibility significantly promoted the income growth of urban residents, and the increase of the regional accessibility coefficient by 1 unit led to an average increase of 2140 yuan in the per capita disposable income of urban residents. (3) There is regional heterogeneity in the impact of improving regional accessibility on urban residents’ income, and it has a significant effect on the eastern and northeastern regions. It has a greater positive effect on improving the income of residents in central cities compared with peripheral cities. (4) Regional accessibility can promote urban income growth through regional employment and fixed asset investment. In the future, the transportation network should be further improved to facilitate the regional economic cycle, strengthen the coordination and complementarity of regional economies, and promote regional economic integration so as to promote the improvement of resident income level and the common prosperity of the people.
Effect of acupuncture or moxibustion at Acupoints Weizhong (BL40) or Chize (LU5) on the change in lumbar temperature in healthy adults: A study protocol for a randomized controlled trial with a 2 × 2 factorial design
Authors: Zheng Siyi , Shen Qiongying , Lyu Zhengyi , Tian Shuxin , Huang Xiaoxiao , Liu Yiyue , Yu Xiaoshuai , Pan Wei , Nie Na , Liang Yi , Fang Jianqiao
Published: October 2023

Background

Low back pain is a common complaint among adults, and moxibustion and acupuncture are commonly used treatments. In traditional theory, Weizhong (BL40) is a popular acupoint, as supported by the saying “Yao Bei Wei Zhong Qiu.” However, the difference in efficacy between acupuncture and moxibustion remains unclear. Therefore, this trial will compare the thermal effects of acupuncture and moxibustion at BL40 and Chize point (LU5) in healthy adults to provide more objective evidence regarding the relationship between the lumbar and BL40.

Method/Design

The trial will use a two-by-two factorial design, randomly assigning 140 participants to four groups (acupuncture at Weizhong (BL40), acupuncture at Chize (LU5), moxibustion at Weizhong (BL40), and moxibustion at Chize (LU5)) at a ratio of 1:1:1:1. Each group will undergo a 30-minute intervention, with the primary outcome being mean temperature in the lumbar region at the last minute of the intervention period. Secondary outcomes include maximum lumbar temperature in the lumbar region at the last minute of the intervention, average lumbar temperature and average bladder meridian temperature at specific time points during and after the intervention, and scores on the warming sensation questionnaire. Data will be analyzed on an intention-to-treat basis.

Discussion

This study will be the first to compare the thermal effect difference in the lumbar area between acupuncture and moxibustion in healthy individuals. The findings of this study will provide new insights for the "Yao Bei Wei Zhong Qiu" theory of traditional Chinese medicine.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, Trial number:NCT05665426. Registered on 26 December 2022.
Relationships between personality, emotional well-being, self-efficacy and weight management among adults with type 2 diabetes: Results from a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Geerling Ralph , Anglim Jeromy , Kothe Emily J. , Schram Miranda T. , Holmes-Truscott Elizabeth , Speight Jane
Published: October 2023

The objective of this study was to examine the associations between personality, general and diabetes-specific well-being and self-efficacy, and weight management indicators, among adults with type 2 diabetes. In addition, to examine whether personality provides incremental explanation of variance in weight management indicators. Australian adults with type 2 diabetes (N = 270; 56% women; age: 61±12 years) were recruited via the national diabetes registry. An online survey included measures of: personality (HEXACO-PI-R), weight management indicators (physical activity, healthy diet, body mass index [BMI]), general well-being (WHO-5), general self-efficacy (GSE), diabetes distress (DDS) and diabetes self-efficacy (DMSES). Analyses included bivariate correlations and linear regression, adjusted for demographic, clinical, and psychological variables. All six personality domains showed significant correlation with at least one weight management indicator: physical activity with extraversion (r = .28), conscientiousness (r = .18) and openness (r = .19); healthy diet with honesty-humility (r = .19), extraversion (r = .24), and agreeableness (r = .14); and BMI with emotionality (r = .20) and extraversion (r = -.20). The strongest associations with general and diabetes-specific well-being and self-efficacy were apparent for extraversion, emotionality and conscientiousness (range: r = -.47-.66). Beyond covariates, personality domains explained additional variance for physical activity (Adjusted R2 = .31, R2 difference = .03, p = .03; openness: β = .16, p = .02, emotionality: β = .15, p = .04) and healthy diet (Adjusted R2 = .19, R2 difference = .03, p = .02; honesty-humility: β = .20, p = .002, extraversion: β = .19, p = .04) but not BMI. This study shows that personality is associated with weight management indicators and psychological factors among adults with type 2 diabetes. Further research is needed, including objective measurement of weight management indictors, to examine how personality influences the experience of type 2 diabetes.
Pattern of seasonal variation in rates of predation between spider families is temporally stable in a food web with widespread intraguild predation
Authors: Wise David H. , Mores Robin M. , M. Pajda-De La O Jennifer , McCary Matthew A.
Published: October 2023

Intraguild predation (IGP)–predation between generalist predators (IGPredator and IGPrey) that potentially compete for a shared prey resource–is a common interaction module in terrestrial food webs. Understanding temporal variation in webs with widespread IGP is relevant to testing food web theory. We investigated temporal constancy in the structure of such a system: the spider-focused food web of the forest floor. Multiplex PCR was used to detect prey DNA in 3,300 adult spiders collected from the floor of a deciduous forest during spring, summer, and fall over four years. Because only spiders were defined as consumers, the web was tripartite, with 11 consumer nodes (spider families) and 22 resource nodes: 11 non-spider arthropod taxa (order- or family-level) and the 11 spider families. Most (99%) spider-spider predation was on spider IGPrey, and ~90% of these interactions were restricted to spider families within the same broadly defined foraging mode (cursorial or web-spinning spiders). Bootstrapped-derived confidence intervals (BCI’s) for two indices of web structure, restricted connectance and interaction evenness, overlapped broadly across years and seasons. A third index, % IGPrey (% IGPrey among all prey of spiders), was similar across years (~50%) but varied seasonally, with a summer rate (65%) ~1.8x higher than spring and fall. This seasonal pattern was consistent across years. Our results suggest that extensive spider predation on spider IGPrey that exhibits consistent seasonal variation in frequency, and that occurs primarily within two broadly defined spider-spider interaction pathways, must be incorporated into models of the dynamics of forest-floor food webs.
The Aurora kinase B relocation blocker LXY18 triggers mitotic catastrophe selectively in malignant cells
Authors: Kalashova Julia , Yang Chenglu , Li Hongmei , Long Yan , Yu Duo , Zhang Ting , Liu Xumei , Choudhry Namrta , Shi Qiong , Allen Thaddeus D.
Published: October 2023

The mitotic regulator, Aurora kinase B (AURKB), is frequently overexpressed in malignancy and is a target for therapeutic intervention. The compound, LXY18, is a potent, orally available small molecule that inhibits the proper localization of AURKB during late mitosis, without affecting its kinase activity. In this study, we demonstrate that LXY18 elicits apoptosis in cancer cells derived from various indications, but not in non-transformed cell lines. The apoptosis is p53-independent, triggered by a prolonged mitotic arrest and occurs predominantly in mitosis. Some additional cells succumb post-mitotic slippage. We also demonstrate that cancer cell lines refractory to AURKB kinase inhibitors are sensitive to LXY18. The mitotic proteins MKLP2, NEK6, NEK7 and NEK9 are known regulators of AURKB localization during the onset of anaphase. LXY18 fails to inhibit the catalytic activity of these AURKB localization factors. Overall, our findings suggest a novel activity for LXY18 that produces a prolonged mitotic arrest and lethality in cancer cells, leaving non-transformed cells healthy. This new activity suggests that the compound may be a promising drug candidate for cancer treatment and that it can also be used as a tool compound to further dissect the regulatory network controlling AURKB localization.
Repetitive sensorimotor mu-alpha phase-targeted afferent stimulation produces no phase-dependent plasticity related changes in somatosensory evoked potentials or sensory thresholds
Authors: Pillen Steven , Shulga Anastasia , Zrenner Christoph , Ziemann Ulf , Bergmann Til Ole
Published: October 2023

Phase-dependent plasticity has been proposed as a neurobiological mechanism by which oscillatory phase-amplitude cross-frequency coupling mediates memory process in the brain. Mimicking this mechanism, real-time EEG oscillatory phase-triggered transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) has successfully induced LTP-like changes in corticospinal excitability in the human motor cortex. Here we asked whether EEG phase-triggered afferent stimulation alone, if repetitively applied to the peaks, troughs, or random phases of the sensorimotor mu-alpha rhythm, would be sufficient to modulate the strength of thalamocortical synapses as assessed by changes in somatosensory evoked potential (SEP) N20 and P25 amplitudes and sensory thresholds (ST). Specifically, we applied 100 Hz triplets of peripheral electrical stimulation (PES) to the thumb, middle, and little finger of the right hand in pseudorandomized trials, with the afferent input from each finger repetitively and consistently arriving either during the cortical mu-alpha trough or peak or at random phases. No significant changes in SEP amplitudes or ST were observed across the phase-dependent PES intervention. We discuss potential limitations of the study and argue that suboptimal stimulation parameter choices rather than a general lack of phase-dependent plasticity in thalamocortical synapses are responsible for this null finding. Future studies should further explore the possibility of phase-dependent sensory stimulation.
Construction of a high-density genetic map and mapping of a spike length locus for rye
Authors: Che Yonghe , Yang Yunjie , Yang Yanping , Wei Lai , Guo Juan , Yang Xinming , Li Xiuquan , Liu Weihua , Li Lihui
Published: October 2023

Genetic maps provide the foundation for QTL mapping of important traits of crops. As a valuable food and forage crop, rye (Secale cereale L., RR) is also one of the tertiary gene sources of wheat, especially wild rye, Secale cereale subsp. segetale, possessing remarkable stress tolerance, tillering capacity and numerous valuable traits. In this study, based on the technique of specific-locus amplified fragment sequencing (SLAF-seq), a high-density single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) linkage map of the cross-pollinated (CP) hybrid population crossed by S. cereale L (female parent) and S. cereale subsp. segetale (male parent) was successfully constructed. Following preprocessing, the number of 1035.11 M reads were collected and 2425800 SNP were obtained, of which 409134 SNP were polymorphic. According to the screening process, 9811 SNP markers suitable for constructing linkage groups (LGs) were selected. Subsequently, all of the markers with MLOD values lower than 3 were filtered out. Finally, an integrated map was constructed with 4443 markers, including 1931 female mapping markers and 3006 male mapping markers. A major quantitative trait locus (QTL) linked with spike length (SL) was discovered at 73.882 cM on LG4, which explained 25.29% of phenotypic variation. Meanwhile two candidate genes for SL, ScWN4R01G329300 and ScWN4R01G329600, were detected. This research presents the first high-quality genetic map of rye, providing a substantial number of SNP marker loci that can be applied to marker-assisted breeding. Additionally, the finding could help to use SLAF marker mapping to identify certain QTL contributing to important agronomic traits. The QTL and the candidate genes identified through the high-density genetic map above may provide diverse potential gene resources for the genetic improvement of rye.
Spatio-temporal evolution laws of storage coefficient of coal mine underground reservoir and contact network of crushed rock
Authors: Qin Xuan , Cao Zhiguo , Wei Lichang , Yang Huan , Sun Hao , Zhou Shenggui
Published: October 2023

Spatio-temporal evolution laws of storage coefficient and contact network of crushed rock are of great significance for the construction and utilization of underground reservoirs in coal mines. Based on discrete element method and irregular rigid block model, spatio-temporal evolution laws of storage coefficient and contact network of crushed rock under different overburden stresses are investigated and the following main conclusions are obtained: (1) The average storage coefficient and the storage coefficient at different vertical heights of the crushed rock packing system decrease exponentially as the overburden stress increases. When the overburden stress ranges from 0 to 20 MPa, the average storage coefficient decreases by 48.947%. (2) The average void radius and throat radius of water storage space decrease exponentially as the overburden stress increases. The increase in overburden stress leads to the transformation of large voids into smaller voids, causing a gradual decrease in void connectivity and a tendency towards irregular void shapes. (3) With the increase of overburden stress, the number of strong contacts in the packing system of crushed rock increases and gradually expands from the top to the bottom. The average contact force of crushed rock increases exponentially, while the coordination number increases linearly. (4) As the overburden stress increases, the majority of contact directions are concentrated within the ±30° range in the loading direction. This increase results in an enhancement of the anisotropy of the packing system structure of crushed rock.
Novel and pragmatic exploration of variation in glottic parameters in non-parallel versus parallel vocal cord CT planes with potential reporting pitfalls
Authors: Khan Adeena , Fawzy Waleed M. S. , Habib Syed S. , Sultan Mamoona
Published: October 2023

Oblique orientation of vocal cord demands strict compliance, by technicians and clinicians, to the recommended parallel plane CT scan of larynx. Repercussions of non-compliance has never been investigated before. We aimed to observe influence of non-parallel vocal cord plane CT scan on qualitative and quantitative glottic parameters, keeping parallel plane CT as a standard for comparison. Simultaneous identification of potential suboptimal imaging sequelae as a result of unformatted CT plane was also identified. In this study we included 95 normal adult glottides and retrospectively analyzed their anatomy in two axial planes, non-parallel plane ① and parallel to vocal cord plane ②. Qualitative (shape, structures at glottic level) and quantitative (anterior commissure ACom, vocal cord width VCw, anteroposterior AP, transverse Tr, cross-sectional area CSA) glottic variables were recorded. Multivariate statistical analysis was used to predict pattern and their impact on glottic anatomy. Plane ① displayed supraglottic features in glottis; adipose (90.5%) and split thyroid laminae (70.6%). Other categorical variables: atypical shape, submental structures and multilevel vertebral crossing were also in majority. All glottic dimensions varied significantly between two planes with most in ACom (-5.8mm) and CSA (-15.0 mm2). In contrast, plane ② manifested higher VCw (>73%), Tr (66.3%), CSA (64.2%) and AP (44.2%) measurements. On correlation analysis, variation in ACom, CSA, Tr was positively associated with VC or plane obliquity (p<0.05). This variability was more in obese and short necked subjects. Change in one parameter also modified other significantly i.e., ACom versus AP and CSA versus Tr. Results indicated statistically significant change in subjective and objective anatomical parameters of glottis on non-application of appropriate CT larynx protocol for image analysis hence highlighting importance of image reformation.
Glycan heterogeneity as a cause of the persistent fraction in HIV-1 neutralization
Authors: Ringe Rajesh P. , Colin Philippe , Ozorowski Gabriel , Allen Joel D. , Yasmeen Anila , Seabright Gemma E. , Lee Jeong Hyun , Antanasijevic Aleksandar , Rantalainen Kimmo , Ketas Thomas , Moore John P. , Ward Andrew B. , Crispin Max , Klasse P. J.
Published: October 2023

Neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) to multiple epitopes on the HIV-1-envelope glycoprotein (Env) have been isolated from infected persons. The potency of NAbs is measured more often than the size of the persistent fraction of infectivity at maximum neutralization, which may also influence preventive efficacy of active or passive immunization and the therapeutic outcome of the latter. Many NAbs neutralize HIV-1 CZA97.012, a clone of a Clade-C isolate, to ~100%. But here NAb PGT151, directed to a fusion-peptide epitope, left a persistent fraction of 15%. NAb PGT145, ligating the Env-trimer apex, left no detectable persistent fraction. The divergence in persistent fractions was further analyzed by depletion of pseudoviral populations of the most PGT151- and PGT145-reactive virions. Thereby, neutralization by the non-depleting NAb increased, whereas neutralization by the depleting NAb decreased. Furthermore, depletion by PGT151 increased sensitivity to autologous neutralization by sera from rabbits immunized with soluble native-like CZA97.012 trimer: substantial persistent fractions were reduced. NAbs in these sera target epitopes comprising residue D411 at the V4-β19 transition in a defect of the glycan shield on CZA97.012 Env. NAb binding to affinity-fractionated soluble native-like CZA97.012 trimer differed commensurately with neutralization in analyses by ELISA and surface plasmon resonance. Glycan differences between PGT151- and PGT145-purified trimer fractions were then demonstrated by mass spectrometry, providing one explanation for the differential antigenicity. These differences were interpreted in relation to a new structure at 3.4-Å resolution of the soluble CZA97.012 trimer determined by cryo-electron microscopy. The trimer adopted a closed conformation, refuting apex opening as the cause of reduced PGT145 binding to the PGT151-purified form. The evidence suggests that differences in binding and neutralization after trimer purification or pseudovirus depletion with PGT145 or PGT151 are caused by variation in glycosylation, and that some glycan variants affect antigenicity through direct effects on antibody contacts, whereas others act allosterically.
The influence of the larval microbiome on susceptibility to Zika virus is mosquito genotype-dependent
Authors: Accoti Anastasia , Multini Laura C. , Diouf Babakar , Becker Margaret , Vulcan Julia , Sylla Massamba , Yap Dianne Y. , Khanipov Kamil , Diallo Mawlouth , Gaye Alioune , Dickson Laura B.
Published: October 2023

The microbiome of the mosquito Aedes aegypti is largely determined by the environment and influences mosquito susceptibility for arthropod-borne viruses (arboviruses). Larval interactions with different bacteria can have carry-over effects on adult Ae. aegypti replication of arboviruses, but little is known about the role that mosquito host genetics play in determining how larval-bacterial interactions shape Ae aegypti susceptibility to arboviruses. To address this question, we isolated single bacterial isolates and complex microbiomes from Ae. aegypti larvae from various field sites in Senegal. Either single bacterial isolates or complex microbiomes were added to two different genetic backgrounds of Ae. aegypti in a gnotobiotic larval system. Using 16S amplicon sequencing we showed that the bacterial community structure differs between the two genotypes of Ae. aegypti when given identical microbiomes, and the abundance of single bacterial taxa differed between Ae. aegypti genotypes. Using single bacterial isolates or the entire preserved complex microbiome, we tested the ability of specific larval microbiomes to drive differences in infection rates for Zika virus in different genetic backgrounds of Ae. aegypti. We observed that the proportion of Zika virus-infected adults was dependent on the interaction between the larval microbiome and Ae. aegypti host genetics. By using the larval microbiome as a component of the environment, these results demonstrate that interactions between the Ae. aegypti genotype and its environment can influence Zika virus infection. As Ae. aegypti expands and adapts to new environments under climate change, an understanding of how different genotypes interact with the same environment will be crucial for implementing arbovirus transmission control strategies.
Global UN 2030 agenda: How can Science, Technology and Innovation accelerate the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals for All?
Authors: Adenle Ademola A. , De Steur Hans , Mwongera Caroline , Rola-Rubzen Fay , de Barcellos Marcia Dutra , Vivanco David F. , Timilsina Govinda R. , Possas Cristina , Alders Robyn , Chertow Marian , Poons Simon , Scholes Bob
Published: October 2023

The adoption of 17 sustainable development goals (SDGs) with 167 targets by the United Nations member states in 2015 emphasizes the critical role of science, technology and innovation (STI) in addressing sustainability challenges, including poverty, hunger, health, employment, climate change and energy. However, STI plays a limited role in the context of the global agenda of 2030 and for achieving SDGs in low- and middle-income countries. The perspectives of relevant stakeholder groups (i.e., policymakers, academia, donors, private sector, and non-governmental organizations) were assessed through an international survey on the role of STI in tackling SDG challenges in three main themes: agriculture, health, energy, and environment. Our findings reveal that human resource capacity on STI is still fragile in many developing countries, including some middle-income economies, suggesting that to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 1, 2, 3, 7, and 13, it is necessary to strengthen the educational system, increase investment in research and development programs, implement staff retention policies, foster collaboration, and provide adequate infrastructure and expertise for the required skills and competencies to promote cooperation in science, technology, and innovation (STI).
Changing climatic drivers of European spruce bark beetle outbreaks: a comparison of locations around the Northern Baltic Sea
Authors:   School of Forest Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 111, FI-80101 Joensuu, Finland, Tikkanen Olli-Pekka , Lehtonen Ilari
Published: October 2023

European spruce bark beetle (Ips typographus [L.]; SBB) damage has reached extreme and unprecedented levels in East Central Sweden, likely driven by increasing temperatures and severe drought due to climate change. However, SBB outbreaks have been less severe on the eastern side of the Baltic Sea, in Estonia and Finland, than in Sweden. This study investigated how precipitation, temperature sum, and droughts (hydrothermic index) have varied in land areas surrounding the Baltic Sea. We studied past meteorological observations from 1950 to 1999. We modeled the effect of climate change on precipitation and temperature using three representative concentration pathway (RCP) scenarios for greenhouse gas emissions (RCP2.6, RCP4.5, and RCP8.5) and multiple (17–23) climate models. Future climate projections (up to 2100) were made for Southeastern Estonia, Southern Finland, and East Central Sweden. Weather data showed that temperature sums had been high and droughts severe in the 2010s, particularly in East Central Sweden, where SBB outbreaks have been a more significant problem than on the eastern shores of the Baltic Sea. Future climate projections suggest that increases in temperature sum will further enhance SBB reproduction, especially in the RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 scenarios. In all climate change scenarios, drought continues to be a problem in East Central Sweden, potentially facilitating SBB outbreaks. In addition, moderate and severe droughts may become more frequent in Southeastern Estonia and Southern Finland if climate change proceeds as predicted in the RCP4.5 or RCP8.5 scenarios.
Forest management in northern Fennoscandia: the need for solutions that mitigate conflicts during forest regeneration and increase the use of continuous cover forestry
Authors:   Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), School of Forest Management, SE-739 21 Skinnskatteberg, Sweden, Ersson Back Tomas , Hansson Linnea , Manner Jussi , Sandström Per , Sonesson Johan
Published: October 2023

Today, conflicts often occur in northern Fennoscandia (also known as Sápmi) between forestry and reindeer husbandry. Continuous cover forestry (CCF) is requested by both reindeer herding communities and the general public and is becoming more common, but the forest industry criticizes CCF for lower wood production. Mechanical site preparation (MSP) increases regeneration success and, thus, increases wood production in CCF. To reduce the conflict between forestry and reindeer husbandry, MSP in Sápmi should destroy as little ground lichen as possible. Today, there are no solutions for gentle and lichen-adapted MSP in CCF. Thus, there is a strong need to develop and test new technical solutions that increase regeneration success in a lichen-adapted way during CCF in Sápmi. We suggest that MSP solutions be developed which are gentle, work selectively and function in shelterwoods, gap cuts, and selection cutting stands. We envision that these solutions could fill the gap between the desired adaptivity on the part of the reindeer herding communities and the desired efficiency on the part of the forest industry. Such MSP technology would contribute to increased acceptance of CCF in the forest industry, higher biodiversity, and considerably reduce the conflict between forestry and reindeer herding communities.
Perceptions of the Titicaca Grebe (Rollandia microptera) in a Peruvian Aymara Fishing Village
Authors: Quispe Jhazel , Villar Daniel , Zapana Joel , Thomsen Bastian , Gosler Andrew G.
Published: October 2023

This paper presents a qualitative analysis of people’s attitudes and knowledge of the endangered endemic Titicaca Grebe (Rollandia microptera) in the Aymara fishing village of Karana, Peru, on the shores of Lake Titicaca. Most respondents hold no strong opinions on the Titicaca Grebe, and those who do tend to be hostile towards it. Hostility towards the species tends to come from fishers, who view the species as competition for fish and blame it for breaking their nets. As the majority of the interviewees lack formal environmental education, we suggest that increased environmental education about the grebe’s endemic and endangered status may move some people from apathy towards support for grebe conservation. Since most of the source of the hostility towards the grebe from fishers stems from perceived competition with it for fish and its role in breaking nets, we suggest that further study of grebe diet and bycatch is needed to reduce direct grebe-fisher conflict. We also discuss the potential future of grebe-fisher conflict, as many of the fishers of Lake Titicaca begin to transition to pisciculture. This study is a pilot study for future conservation work on local attitudes and local ecological knowledge across the entirety of Lake Titicaca. It therefore informs as to how to conduct ethnobiological research in the region. We discuss what we learned about conducting ethnobiological research in the high Andes and how this study informed that larger ethnobiological project.
Empirical Analysis of Carbon Neutrality Perceptions to Overcome the Climate Crisis in Chungbuk, Korea
Authors:   Crisis and Emergency Management: Theory and Praxis, Kim Yeon Jun , Kim Eun Su , Kim A Yeon , Lee Jae Eun
Published: October 2023

This study aims to analyze the perceptions of climate crisis risk, roles of actors, green living practices, carbon neutrality policies, and policy outcomes to set policy directions for achieving carbon neutrality to overcome the climate crisis. The main findings of this analysis are as follows. First, there are gender differences in risk perceptions between men and women regarding the likelihood of survival threats from the climate crisis. Second, there are differences in the roles of different actors in carbon neutrality policy behavior. Third, respondents are currently uncomfortable with the idea of going carbon neutral, and policy effectiveness is low. Fourth, respondents are willing to accept the inconvenience of strengthening laws and regulations to realize carbon neutrality. Fifth, the most common way to learn about pro-neutrality policies is through mass media. Sixth, purchasing recycled products and recycling consumption were the most preferred actions. Seventh, the lack of information on the scope and timing of climate change impacts was the most serious problem with the carbon neutrality policy. The most preferred policies were: recognizing the seriousness of the climate crisis and environmental education, supporting social systems, and providing incentives and points.
CULINARY IN ISLAMIC-JAVANESE CULTURAL HERITAGE FROM A CHEMISTRY PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Zamhari Muhammad
Published: October 2023

Food plays a significant role in the religious rituals of Java, specifically within the realm of Islam, where special foods are prepared and consumed during religious ceremonies and celebrations, imbuing spiritual practices with a unique cultural essence. Understanding the chemistry behind these foods is essential for comprehending their health benefits and their embodiment of noble values within Javanese and Islamic cultures. This article seeks to delve into the chemistry of various cultural heritage foods from an Islamic-Javanese standpoint. To achieve this, a thorough literature review was conducted, focusing on culinary practices embedded within the Islamic-Javanese cultural heritage and exploring the corresponding chemical explanations. The research employed a systematic and meticulous search across academic databases, online libraries, and search engines to gather a broad range of perspectives, theories, and empirical evidence. Food, as a reflection of culture, serves both practical and symbolic roles within a particular cultural community. It serves as a manifestation of the values, traditions, and identity of the cultural group, while also meeting the physiological needs of individuals by providing essential nutrients and energy. Beyond mere sustenance, food holds utilitarian value by ensuring survival and promoting overall well-being. By delving into the chemistry of these cultural heritage foods, this article aims to shed light on their significance within the Islamic-Javanese context, uncovering the intricate interplay between chemistry, culture, and spirituality.
Book review of: Kaminer, Tahl; Ma, Leonard; Runting, Helen (Hrsg.) (2023): Urbanizing Suburbia. Hyper-Gentrification, the Financialization of Housing and the Remaking of the Outer European City
Authors: Diller Christian
Published: October 2023

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Scar revision in areas subjected to excessive tension using intraoperative and postoperative long-term tension reduction techniques
Authors: Burm Jin Sik , Lee Jimin , Kang Sang Yoon , Park Jun
Published: October 2023

Background Surgical scars subjected to excessive tension tend to widen and become hypertrophic due to strong mechanical stretching forces. In this study, we evaluated the clinical outcomes of combined intraoperative and postoperative long-term tension reduction techniques for the revision of scars subjected to excessive tension.Methods In total, 64 cases (62 patients) underwent scar revision and were followed for 6 months or more. The long-term tension reduction technique included intraoperative subcutaneous fascial and deep dermal closure using nonabsorbable nylon sutures and postoperative long-term skin taping for 3 to 8 months. The final scars were objectively evaluated using our Linear Scar Evaluation Scale (LiSES, 0-10 scale), which consisted of five categories: width, height, color, texture, and overall appearance.Results All 64 cases healed successfully, without early postoperative complications such as infection or dehiscence. The follow-up period ranged from 6 months to 6 years. The LiSES scores ranged from 5 to 10 (mean: 8.2). Fifty-one cases (79.6%) received a score of 8 to 10, which was assessed as “very good” by the evaluator. Two cases with a score of 5 (3%) showed partial hypertrophic scars at the last follow-up visit. All patients were highly satisfied with their final outcomes, including the two patients who experienced partial hypertrophic scars.Conclusions A combination of intraoperative and postoperative long-term tension reduction techniques can achieve the goal of long-term dermal support and satisfactory aesthetic outcomes for scar revision in areas subjected to excessive tension.
Subpectoral dissection using an ultrasonic energy device in prosthetic breast reconstruction
Authors: Kim Yo Han , Song Seung Yong
Published: October 2023

Background Ultrasonic devices have potential advantages over electrocautery surgical scalpels for muscle dissection, as they eliminate the risk of muscle contraction caused by electric currents. In this study, we investigated the outcomes of using both device types in subpectoral dissection for breast reconstruction.Methods In this retrospective single-center study, we examined the electronic medical records of female patients with non-recurrent breast cancer who underwent breast reconstruction. The patients were treated with either Harmonic Focus+ Shears (HFS) or a Bovie electrocautery scalpel (BES) between January 2015 and April 2020. The primary clinical outcomes evaluated were total drainage volume, time to drainage tube removal, and operation time. To control for confounding, outcomes were stratified based on the type of tissue expander used—either Mentor or Natrelle.Results The study included 303 patients; 155 (51.2%) were treated with HFS (mean age, 45.28±7.38 years) and 148 (48.8%) with BES (mean age, 44.41±9.37 years). Within each expander type, the frequency of drainage exceeding 30 cc per day after 21 postoperative days showed no statistical difference between the HFS and BES devices. The operation time was shorter for HFS in both the Mentor (85.13±19.81 minutes vs. 109.56±21.66 minutes, P<0.001) and Natrelle (88.09±20.64 minutes vs. 99.88±22.66, P<0.001) groups.Conclusions When controlling for the type of tissue expander as a confounding factor, HFS was associated with reduced operation time. Furthermore, it demonstrated superior clinical effectiveness compared to BES regarding operator convenience.
Desirability function analysis approach for optimization of fused deposition modelling process parameters
Authors: Tarigonda Hariprasad , Lakshmi Kala Koyyagura , Gnanaprakash Peedinti , Raghurami Reddy Doddipalli , Harsha Vardhan Reddy Konareddy
Published: October 2023

This study uses desirability function analysis to optimize the process parameters namely layer thickness, fill pattern, fill density, and build orientation for fused deposition modelling on polyethylene terephthalate glycol material. The Taguchi-desirability function analysis is one of the optimization techniques for the multi-objective decision-making process. Taguchi L9 orthogonal array is employed in the test trials during the fused deposition modelling process. The output responses measured are dimension error, ductility, and tensile strength. The goal of process parameter optimization is to attain the best of the trials for minimal dimension error and maximum tensile strength and ductility. The best feasible amalgamation of input variables is discovered for the investigated and assessed response features utilizing desirability function analysis. As per the results obtained from experiments, it is concluded that the optimal combination of parameters is layer thickness of 0.1 mm, build orientation of 0°, fill density of 90 % and hexa fill pattern. By following this combination, the error in the dimensions was slightly increased which needed to be reduced, but both tensile strength and ductility were increased which are more desirable characteristics.
Tóth József és az intézményszintű nemzetköziesítés kezdetei az integrált Pécsi Tudományegyetemen
Authors:   University of Pécs, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Department of Political Science and International Studies, Tarrósy István
Published: October 2023

The paper deals with the internationalisation dimensions and achievements of the work of Professor József Tóth as Rector of the University of Pécs (PTE). The author, as a direct colleague of Rector Tóth, uses the mixed method to analyse interviews and documents published in newspapers, and shares a number of personal memories and primary information with the aim of revealing to the reader József Tóth’s visionary thinking on the international positioning of the integrated University of Pécs. The paper is also a tribute to Tóth’s strategic planning, which certainly marked the beginning of institutional internationalisation for PTE.
Menopause Status and Within-Group Differences in Chronological Age Affect the Functional Neural Correlates of Spatial Context Memory in Middle-Aged Females
Authors: Crestol Arielle , Rajagopal Sricharana , Lissaman Rikki , LaPlume Annalise A. , Pasvanis Stamatoula , Olsen Rosanna K. , Einstein Gillian , Jacobs Emily G. , Rajah M. Natasha
Published: October 2023

Reductions in the ability to encode and retrieve past experiences in rich spatial contextual detail (episodic memory) are apparent by midlife—a time when most females experience spontaneous menopause. Yet, little is known about how menopause status affects episodic memory-related brain activity at encoding and retrieval in middle-aged premenopausal and postmenopausal females, and whether any observed group differences in brain activity and memory performance correlate with chronological age within group. We conducted an event-related task fMRI study of episodic memory for spatial context to address this knowledge gap. Multivariate behavioral partial least squares was used to investigate how chronological age and retrieval accuracy correlated with brain activity in 31 premenopausal females (age range, 39.55–53.30 years; mean age, 44.28 years; SD age, 3.12 years) and 41 postmenopausal females (age range, 46.70–65.14 years; mean age, 57.56 years; SD age, 3.93 years). We found that postmenopausal status, and advanced age within postmenopause, was associated with lower spatial context memory. The fMRI analysis showed that only in postmenopausal females, advanced age was correlated with altered activity in occipitotemporal and parahippocampal cortices during encoding and retrieval, and poorer spatial context memory performance. In contrast, only premenopausal females exhibited an overlap in encoding and retrieval activity in angular gyrus/inferior parietal cortex, midline cortical regions, and prefrontal cortex, which correlated with better spatial context retrieval accuracy. These results highlight how menopause status and chronological age, nested within menopause group, affect episodic memory and its neural correlates at midlife.