bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
osl-dynamics: A toolbox for modelling fast dynamic brain activity
Authors: Gohil C. , Huang R. , Roberts E. , van Es M.W.J. , Quinn A.J. , Vidaurre D. , Woolrich M.W.
Published: August 2023

Neural activity contains rich spatio-temporal structure that corresponds to cognition. This includes oscillatory bursting and dynamic activity that span across networks of brain regions, all of which can occur on timescales of a tens of milliseconds. While these processes can be accessed through brain recordings and imaging, modelling them presents methodological challenges due to their fast and transient nature. Furthermore, the exact timing and duration of interesting cognitive events is often a priori unknown. Here we present the OHBA Software Library Dynamics Toolbox (osl-dynamics), a Python-based package that can identify and describe recurrent dynamics in functional neuroimaging data on timescales as fast as tens of milliseconds. At its core are machine learning generative models that are able to adapt to the data and learn the timing, as well as the spatial and spectral characteristics, of brain activity with few assumptions.osl-dynamicsincorporates state-of-the-art approaches that can be, and have been, used to elucidate brain dynamics in a wide range of data types, including magneto/electroencephalography, functional magnetic resonance imaging, invasive local field potential recordings and electrocorticography. It also provides novel summary measures of brain dynamics that can be used to inform our understanding of cognition, behaviour and disease. We hopeosl-dynamicswill further our understanding of brain function, through its ability to enhance the modelling of fast dynamic processes.

Highlights

An open-source toolbox for identifying and describing brain dynamics in neuroimaging data on fast timescales.

Includes visualisation and quantification of oscillatory bursting and network dynamics.

Provides novel summary measures and group analysis tools of brain dynamics that can be used to inform our understanding of cognition, behaviour and disease.

Implemented in Python and makes use ofTensorFlow.

Includes comprehensive documentation and tutorials.
phuEGO: A network-based method to reconstruct active signalling pathways from phosphoproteomics datasets
Authors: Giudice Girolamo , Chen Haoqi , Petsalaki Evangelia
Published: August 2023

Signalling networks are critical for virtually all cell functions. Our current knowledge of cell signalling has been summarised in signalling pathway databases, which, while useful, are highly biassed towards well-studied processes, and don’t capture context specific network wiring or pathway cross-talk. Mass spectrometry-based phosphoproteomics data can provide a more unbiased view of active cell signalling processes in a given context, however, it suffers from low signal-to-noise ratio and poor reproducibility across experiments. Methods to extract active signalling signatures from such data struggle to produce unbiased and interpretable networks that can be used for hypothesis generation and designing downstream experiments.

Here we present phuEGO, which combines three-layer network propagation with ego network decomposition to provide small networks comprising active functional signalling modules. PhuEGO boosts the signal-to-noise ratio from global phosphoproteomics datasets, enriches the resulting networks for functional phosphosites and allows the improved comparison and integration across datasets. We applied phuEGO to five phosphoproteomics data sets from cell lines collected upon infection with SARS CoV2. PhuEGO was better able to identify common active functions across datasets and to point to a subnetwork enriched for known COVID-19 targets. Overall, phuEGO provides a tool to the community for the improved functional interpretation of global phosphoproteomics datasets.
CASP15 cryoEM protein and RNA targets: refinement and analysis using experimental maps
Authors: Mulvaney Thomas , Kretsch Rachael C. , Elliott Luc , Beton Joe , Kryshtafovych Andriy , Rigden Daniel J. , Das Rhiju , Topf Maya
Published: August 2023

CASP assessments primarily rely on comparing predicted coordinates with experimental reference structures. However, errors in the reference structures can potentially reduce the accuracy of the assessment. This issue is particularly prominent in cryoEM-determined structures, and therefore, in the assessment of CASP15 cryoEM targets, we directly utilized density maps to evaluate the predictions. A method for ranking the quality of protein chain predictions based on rigid fitting to experimental density was found to correlate well with the CASP assessment scores. Overall, the evaluation against the density map indicated that the models are of high accuracy although local assessment of predicted side chains in a 1.52 Å resolution map showed that side-chains are sometimes poorly positioned. The top 136 predictions associated with 9 protein target reference structures were selected for refinement, in addition to the top 40 predictions for 11 RNA targets. To this end, we have developed an automated hierarchical refinement pipeline in cryoEM maps. For both proteins and RNA, the refinement of CASP15 predictions resulted in structures that are close to the reference target structure, including some regions with better fit to the density. This refinement was successful despite large conformational changes and secondary structure element movements often being required, suggesting that predictions from CASP-assessed methods could serve as a good starting point for building atomic models in cryoEM maps for both proteins and RNA. Loop modeling continued to pose a challenge for predictors with even short loops failing to be accurately modeled or refined at times. The lack of consensus amongst models suggests that modeling holds the potential for identifying more flexible regions within the structure.
A collaboration between immune cells and the choroid plexus epithelium in brain inflammation
Authors: Xu Huixin , Lotfy Peter , Gelb Sivan , Pragana Aja , Hehnly Christine , Shipley Frederick B. , Zawadzki Miriam E. , Cui Jin , Deng Liwen , Taylor Milo , Webb Mya , Lidov Hart G. W. , Andermann Mark L. , Chiu Isaac M. , Ordovas-Montanes Jose , Lehtinen Maria K.
Published: August 2023

The choroid plexus (ChP) is a vital brain barrier and source of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Here, we use chronic two-photon imaging in awake mice and single-cell transcriptomics to demonstrate that in addition to these roles, the ChP is a complex immune organ that regulates brain inflammation. In a mouse meningitis model, neutrophils and monocytes accumulated in ChP stroma and surged across the epithelial barrier into the CSF. Bi-directional recruitment of monocytes from the periphery and, unexpectedly, macrophages from the CSF to the ChP helped eliminate neutrophils and repair the barrier. Transcriptomic analyses detailed the molecular steps accompanying this process, including the discovery of epithelial cells that transiently specialized to nurture immune cells, coordinate their recruitment, survival, and differentiation, and ultimately, control the opening/closing of the ChP brain barrier. Collectively, we provide a new conceptual understanding and comprehensive roadmap of neuroinflammation at the ChP brain barrier.
MRI of OATP-expressing transplanted cells using clinical doses of gadolinium contrast agent
Authors: Bhattacharyya Tapas , Mallett Christiane L. , Hix Jeremy M.-L. , Shapiro Erik M.
Published: August 2023

Hepatic organic anion transporting polypeptides (OATPs) transport off-the-shelf, FDA-approved, hepatospecific Gd-based MRI contrast agents into cells that express the transporters enhancing signal on clinical T1-weighted MRI. Studies have used MRI to identify OATP-overexpressing tumors and metastases in mice following the delivery of Gd-EOB-DTPA at 27-67-fold higher than clinical doses. With safety and regulatory concern over Gd-based contrast agents, translation of this imaging paradigm to humans for regenerative medicine cell therapy will require substantially lower doses of agent.

Here we complemented static T1-weighted MRI and/or T1-mapping with dynamic contrast enhanced (DCE)-MRI and show that even low intracellular accumulation of contrast agent results in a sustained signal enhancement in OATP-overexpressing tumors while control, non-expressing tumors have rapid wash-in and wash-out dynamics which could be distinguished by performing area-under-the-curve (AUC) analyses.
A rapid genome‐wide analysis of isolated giant viruses using MinION sequencing
Authors: Hikida Hiroyuki , Okazaki Yusuke , Zhang Ruixuan , Nguyen Thi Tuyen , Ogata Hiroyuki
Published: August 2023

Following the discovery of Acanthamoeba polyphaga mimivirus, diverse giant viruses have been isolated. However, only a small fraction of these isolates have been completely sequenced, limiting our understanding of the genomic diversity of giant viruses. MinION is a portable and low‐cost long‐read sequencer that can be readily used in a laboratory. Although MinION provides highly error‐prone reads that require correction through additional short‐read sequencing, recent studies assembled high‐quality microbial genomes only using MinION sequencing. Here, we evaluated the accuracy of MinION‐only genome assemblies for giant viruses by re‐sequencing a prototype marseillevirus. Assembled genomes presented over 99.98% identity to the reference genome with a few gaps, demonstrating a high accuracy of the MinION‐only assembly. As a proof of concept, we de novo assembled five newly isolated viruses. Average nucleotide identities to their closest known relatives suggest that the isolates represent new species of marseillevirus, pithovirus and mimivirus. The assembly of subsampled reads demonstrated that their taxonomy and genomic composition could be analysed at the 50× sequencing coverage. We also identified a pithovirus gene whose homologues were detected only in metagenome‐derived relatives. Collectively, we propose that MinION‐only assembly is an effective approach to rapidly perform a genome‐wide analysis of isolated giant viruses.
Refractory response to entrectinib for ROS‐1 rearranged NSCLC with concurrent de novo TP53 mutation showing good response to CNS lesion, but poor duration of response: A case report
Authors: Ito Kentaro , Nishio Miho , Fujiwara Kentaro , Nishii Yoichi , Ushiro Kengo , Yasui Hiroki , Hataji Osamu
Published: August 2023

Entrectinib, a ROS‐1 inhibitor, has been shown to be effective for patients with ROS‐1 fused NSCLC, and has been established as the standard of care for this population. Entrectinib has been shown to achieve a better response to brain metastasis due to the characteristic of the drug having a weak interaction with P‐glycoprotein and, even in prospective studies, the intracranial response is higher. Patients have been known to acquire resistance to molecularly targeted drugs such as EGF‐TKIs or ALK‐TKIs during targeted therapy. Similarly, the mechanisms of resistance to entrectinib have been reported, but information about the effects of TP53 mutation with entrectinib are still limited. Here, we experienced a case of a patient with ROS‐1 fusion and concurrent TP53 mutation who was treated with entrectinib, resulting in a response to brain metastasis but rapid resistance to entrectinib. Our case demonstrates both the intracranial activity of entrectinib and the potential for resistance to entrectinib due to TP53 mutation.
Gambling, tobacco use, and health among individuals in substance use disorder treatment
Authors: Pagano Anna , Le Thao , Fong Timothy , Reid Rory , Delucchi Kevin , Guydish Joseph
Published: August 2023

Background and Objectives

Gambling is highly comorbid with disordered use of tobacco and other drugs, and may increase relapse risk among substance use disorder (SUD) patients. We investigated associations between gambling and tobacco use behaviors among SUD patients to inform clinical care.

Methods

Patients (N = 651, 170 female) from 25 residential SUD treatment programs in California completed surveys about tobacco use, health, and gambling. Using multivariate regression, we examined associations between gambling, tobacco use behaviors, and mental and physical health.

Results

Past‐year gamblers were more likely than non‐gamblers to be current smokers (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.44, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.03, 2.01). Smokers who gambled had higher mean Heaviness of Smoking Index (HSI) scores (mean difference = +0.32, 95% CI = 0.04, 0.60), and more often reported smokeless tobacco use (AOR = 1.73, 95% CI = 1.16, 2.58), compared to non‐gambling smokers. Past‐year problem gamblers were more likely than all others (non‐gamblers and non‐problem gamblers) to be current smokers (AOR = 1.44, 95% CI = 1.08, 1.90) and to report high psychosocial stress (AOR = 1.87, 95% CI = 1.34, 2.61). Smokers with problem gambling also had higher HSI scores (mean difference = +0.54, 95% CI = 0.14, 0.95) compared to smokers without problem gambling.

Discussion and Conclusions

Gambling and problem gambling were associated with tobacco use and heavier smoking. SUD patients with gambling comorbidity may be heavier smokers and may need concurrent treatment for tobacco use and problem gambling.

Scientific Significance

This study provides novel data regarding gambling and tobacco use behaviors among SUD patients.
The beneficial effect of early and prolonged kangaroo mother care on long‐term neuro‐developmental outcomes in low birth neonates – A cohort study
Authors: Bisanalli Shridevi , Balachander Bharathi , Shashidhar A. , Raman Vijaya , Josit Pavitra , Rao Suman PN
Published: August 2023

Aim

Kangaroo mother care (KMC) has immense short‐term benefits, but data on long‐term outcomes are scarce. Hence, this study aimed to compare the neurodevelopmental outcomes at 12 months of corrected age (CA) in infants <2000 g receiving early and prolonged KMC to a control group.

Methods

This was a cohort study that was conducted from January 2017 to November 2018. All neonates<2000 g were eligible for the study. Neonates that received early initiation (<72 h of life) and prolonged KMC comprised the intervention group and were compared to neonates without the intervention. Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, Third edition (BSID‐III) was done at 12 months of CA, and this was analysed using t‐test and multi‐linear regression analysis.

Results

There were 75 neonates in the intervention and 69 in the control group. Baseline characteristics were comparable. We found higher composite scores for cognition (110.38 ± 9.89 vs. 105.44 ± 8.77, p value = 0.023), language (107.51 ± 10.72 vs. 101.05 ± 12.06, p value = 0.014) and adaptive behaviour (87.97 ± 9.97 vs. 80 ± 9.1, p value<0.001) in the early and prolonged KMC group in comparison to the control group.

Conclusion

Infants with early and prolonged KMC have better neurodevelopmental outcomes in terms of cognition, language and adaptive behaviour at 12 months of CA.
Against loneliness we unite: A solidarity‐based account of loneliness
Authors: Lederman Zohar
Published: August 2023

Loneliness is ubiquitous and is bad for our health, making it a bioethical concern. It is perhaps true now more than ever before. Recent publications in bioethics have discussed loneliness in the context of responsibility, solidarity, and autonomy, especially relational autonomy. In this paper, I elaborate on the relation between solidarity and loneliness, proposing an account of loneliness as lack of solidarity. Some cases of loneliness, I argue, may be defined and explained by not having someone to identify with you in some relevant aspect or without someone to assist you. I specifically use the work of George Orwell to make my case.
Antegrade stenting for pancreaticojejunostomy stricture following successful guidewire placement through the pancreaticogastrostomy facilitated by peroral pancreatoscopy
Authors: Iwata Shota , Iwata Keisuke , Okuno Mitsuru
Published: August 2023

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A multisource analysis of child streetism in Nigerian urban centres
Authors: Ogunkan David V.
Published: August 2023

Motivation

Child streetism, a concept that describes the desperate situations of children working, living, or surviving on the street, is a complex phenomenon and one of the challenges posed by urban poverty worldwide.

Purpose

The increased study of street children in Nigerian urban centres over the last 10 years has seen the accumulation of evidence underpin new policies to address this worldwide problem. This article summarizes the determinants of child streetism, the risks associated with it (violence, street gangsterism, drugs and substance abuse), and the intervention policies and programmes for street children in Nigeria.

Methods and approach

The article is based on a textual narrative synthesis analysis of the relevant literature published between 2012 and 2023.

Findings

Analysis of the literature shows that street children engage in harmful and risky behaviours and are caught in a cycle of abuse and poverty. Interventions to help street children are generally hampered by a lack of understanding of the causes, impacts, situations, and general characteristics. The literature suggests that the most successful interventions typically capitalize on people's strengths, incorporate elements of participation, self‐help, and mutual support, and take the least stigmatizing approach.

Policy implications

Child streetism is an expression of a complicated web of determinants that require structural solutions. Any policy addressing the problem of child streetism must consider the phenomenon as a product of several complex and interrelated factors. Of these, uncontrolled urbanization, poor urban planning and management, and poverty are the most obvious.
Impact of aortic valve stenosis on myocardial deformation in different left ventricular levels: A three‐dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography study
Authors: Hjertaas Johannes Just , Einarsen Eigir , Gerdts Eva , Kokorina Marina , Moen Christian Arvei , Urheim Stig , Saeed Sahrai , Matre Knut
Published: August 2023

Background

Global systolic left ventricular (LV) myocardial function progressively declines as degenerative aortic valve stenosis (AS) progresses. Whether this results in uniformly distributed deformation changes from base to apex has not been investigated.

Methods

Eighty‐five AS patients underwent three‐dimensional (3D) echocardiography in this cross‐sectional study. Patients were grouped by peak jet velocity into mild (n = 32), moderate (n = 31), and severe (n = 22) AS. 3D speckle tracking derived strain, rotation, twist, and torsion were obtained to assess global LV function and myocardial function at the apical, mid, and basal levels.

Results

Global longitudinal strain (GLS) was lower in patients with severe AS (‐16.1 ± 2.4% in mild, ‐15.5 ± 2.5% in moderate, and ‐13.5 ± 3.0% in severe AS [all p < .01]). Peak basal and mid longitudinal strain (LS), basal rotation and twist from apical to basal level followed the same pattern, while peak apical LS was higher in moderate AS compared to severe AS (all p < .05). In multivariate analyses, lower GLS was particularly associated with male sex, higher body mass index and peak aortic jet velocity, lower basal LS with higher filling pressure (E/e’) and LV mass, lower mid LS with higher RWT and presence of AS symptoms, and lower apical LS with male sex and higher systolic blood pressure, respectively (all p < .05).

Conclusion

Using 3D speckle tracking echocardiography reveals regional and global changes in LV mechanics in AS related to the severity of AS, LV remodeling and presence of cardiovascular risk factors.
CPEB4–CLOCK crosstalk during temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: de Diego‐Garcia Laura , Brennan Gary P. , Auer Theresa , Menendez‐Mendez Aida , Parras Alberto , Martin‐Gil Alba , Mitra Meghma , Ollà Ivana , Villalba‐Benito Leticia , Gil Beatriz , Alves Mariana , Lau Kelvin , Delanty Norman , Beausang Alan , Cryan Jane , Brett Francesca M. , Farrell Michael A. , O'Brien Donncha F. , Mendez Raúl , Carracedo‐Rodríguez Gonzalo , Henshall David C. , Lucas José J. , Engel Tobias
Published: August 2023

Objective

Posttranscriptional mechanisms are increasingly recognized as important contributors to the formation of hyperexcitable networks in epilepsy. Messenger RNA (mRNA) polyadenylation is a key regulatory mechanism governing protein expression by enhancing mRNA stability and translation. Previous studies have shown large‐scale changes in mRNA polyadenylation in the hippocampus of mice during epilepsy development. The cytoplasmic polyadenylation element‐binding protein CPEB4 was found to drive epilepsy‐induced poly(A) tail changes, and mice lacking CPEB4 develop a more severe seizure and epilepsy phenotype. The mechanisms controlling CPEB4 function and the downstream pathways that influence the recurrence of spontaneous seizures in epilepsy remain poorly understood.

Methods

Status epilepticus was induced in wild‐type and CPEB4‐deficient male mice via an intra‐amygdala microinjection of kainic acid. CLOCK binding to the CPEB4 promoter was analyzed via chromatin immunoprecipitation assay and melatonin levels via high‐performance liquid chromatography in plasma.

Results

Here, we show increased binding of CLOCK to recognition sites in the CPEB4 promoter region during status epilepticus in mice and increased Cpeb4 mRNA levels in N2A cells overexpressing CLOCK. Bioinformatic analysis of CPEB4‐dependent genes undergoing changes in their poly(A) tail during epilepsy found that genes involved in the regulation of circadian rhythms are particularly enriched. Clock transcripts displayed a longer poly(A) tail length in the hippocampus of mice post‐status epilepticus and during epilepsy. Moreover, CLOCK expression was increased in the hippocampus in mice post‐status epilepticus and during epilepsy, and in resected hippocampus and cortex of patients with drug‐resistant temporal lobe epilepsy. Furthermore, CPEB4 is required for CLOCK expression after status epilepticus, with lower levels in CPEB4‐deficient compared to wild‐type mice. Last, CPEB4‐deficient mice showed altered circadian function, including altered melatonin blood levels and altered clustering of spontaneous seizures during the day.

Significance

Our results reveal a new positive transcriptional–translational feedback loop involving CPEB4 and CLOCK, which may contribute to the regulation of the sleep–wake cycle during epilepsy.
Fenfluramine in the treatment of Dravet syndrome: Results of a third randomized, placebo‐controlled clinical trial
Authors: Sullivan Joseph , Lagae Lieven , Cross J. Helen , Devinsky Orrin , Guerrini Renzo , Knupp Kelly G. , Laux Linda , Nikanorova Marina , Polster Tilman , Talwar Dinesh , Ceulemans Berten , Nabbout Rima , Farfel Gail M. , Galer Bradley S. , Gammaitoni Arnold R. , Lock Michael , Agarwal Anupam , Scheffer Ingrid E. ,   the FAiRE DS Study Group
Published: August 2023

Objective

This study was undertaken to assess the safety and efficacy of fenfluramine in the treatment of convulsive seizures in patients with Dravet syndrome.

Methods

This multicenter, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, parallel‐group, phase 3 clinical trial enrolled patients with Dravet syndrome, aged 2–18 years with poorly controlled convulsive seizures, provided they were not also receiving stiripentol. Eligible patients who had ≥6 convulsive seizures during the 6‐week baseline period were randomized to placebo, fenfluramine .2 mg/kg/day, or fenfluramine .7 mg/kg/day (1:1:1 ratio) administered orally (maximum dose = 26 mg/day). Doses were titrated over 2 weeks and maintained for an additional 12 weeks. The primary endpoint was a comparison of the monthly convulsive seizure frequency (MCSF) during baseline and during the combined titration–maintenance period in patients given fenfluramine .7 mg/kg/day versus patients given placebo.

Results

A total of 169 patients were screened, and 143 were randomized to treatment. Mean age was 9.3 ± 4.7 years (±SD), 51% were male, and median baseline MCSF in the three groups ranged 12.7–18.0 per 28 days. Patients treated with fenfluramine .7 mg/kg/day demonstrated a 64.8% (95% confidence interval = 51.8%–74.2%) greater reduction in MCSF compared with placebo (p < .0001). Following fenfluramine .7 mg/kg/day, 72.9% of patients had a ≥50% reduction in MCSF compared with 6.3% in the placebo group (p < .0001). The median longest seizure‐free interval was 30 days in the fenfluramine .7 mg/kg/day group compared with 10 days in the placebo group (p < .0001). The most common adverse events (>15% in any group) were decreased appetite, somnolence, pyrexia, and decreased blood glucose. All occurred in higher frequency in fenfluramine groups than placebo. No evidence of valvular heart disease or pulmonary artery hypertension was detected.

Significance

The results of this third phase 3 clinical trial provide further evidence of the magnitude and durability of the antiseizure response of fenfluramine in children with Dravet syndrome.
Effect of stress‐relieved heat treatment on very high cycle fatigue performance of additive manufactured Ti‐6Al‐4V alloy
Authors: Tusher Md Mehide Hasan , Ince Ayhan
Published: August 2023

Laser powder bed fusion (L‐PBF) technique is utilized in various industries to create intricate designs. The durability of L‐PBF components should be evaluated when subjected to different load cycles to widen their applicability in other fields. While previous studies have mostly concentrated on static and low cycle loads, high cycle and very high cycle loadings are crucial in many applications. This study examines the impact of stress‐relieved (SR) heat treatment on very high cycle fatigue (VHCF) performance of L‐PBF Ti‐6Al‐4V alloy. The SR heat treatment enhanced the VHCF response of the alloy by lowering defect levels and their size along with changing the microstructure, thus demonstrating their increased versatility for wider industrial applications.
Probabilistic creep with the Wilshire–Cano–Stewart model
Authors: Hossain Md Abir , Cano Jaime A. , Stewart Calvin M.
Published: August 2023

Creep behavior is susceptible to uncertainty. Replicated creep data for steel can exhibit logarithm decades of uncertainty, which necessitates the development of probabilistic creep models for reliability‐based design. The deterministic Wilshire–Cano–Stewart (WCS) model is transformed into a probabilistic creep deformation, damage, and rupture prediction model via injecting the uncertainty of test conditions, pre‐existing damage, and material constants. The WCS model is calibrated to replicated quintuplicate creep data from a “single heat” of 304 stainless steel. The Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) method with the Metropolis–Hastings (MH) algorithm is employed to introduce the sources of uncertainties into the model via calibrated probability distribution functions (pdfs). The probabilistic predictions encapsulate most of the experimental outliers across isostresses‐isotherms. Interpolative and extrapolative assessments reveal that minimum‐creep‐strain‐rate (MCSR) and stress rupture (SR) predictions are consistent across isotherms. The WCS probabilistic model captures the range of creep behavior of a single heat of material using short‐term data.
Galling insect communities mediate the effects of fire on their associated parasitoid communities
Authors: Kuzmanich N. , Giorgis M. A. , Bernaschini L. , Tavella J. , Salvo A.
Published: August 2023

Understanding fire effects on multitrophic levels is critical to the context of changes in fire regime and climate. Insects located at higher trophic levels, like parasitoids, are more vulnerable to habitat changes than insect herbivores because they need well‐established populations of their hosts to survive. Currently, fire effects on parasitoids and their interactions with their hosts are unknown.

Our aim was to study the changes in abundance, richness and species composition, as well as the food web structure in a system involving parasitoids and galling insects under different fire scenarios. We asked whether potential changes in abundance, species richness and composition of parasitoid communities are explained by galled plant abundance, species richness and composition of galling insects, and how fire affects the structure of galling insect–parasitoid food webs.

The highest parasitoid richness was found in the 9 years after fire scenario, whereas parasitoid abundance was not affected by fire. The parasitoid species composition in the 9 years after fire scenario was different from that in the unburned and 3 years after fire scenarios. Parasitoid communities were modulated by galled plant abundance, species richness and composition of galling insect communities. Vulnerability was significantly higher in 9 years after fire scenarios, but it increased with increasing network size.

Fire affects the community of parasitoids through changes in their host communities. Differences in exclusivity to fire scenarios and diet specialisation of parasitoid species and galling insect richness may explain the patterns found. Our study supports evidence that fire creates habitats heterogeneous in the availability of hosts shaping the parasitoid communities, with a bottom‐up effect in food webs. Additionally, in burned areas were recorded unique galling insect–parasitoid interactions.
Research and development of hybrid rice in China
Authors: Li Jiming , Luo Xiaohe , Zhou Kunlu
Published: August 2023

In the past 60 years, China's hybrid rice has developed from a three‐line system to a two‐line system: This has enriched the knowledge of heterosis and crop breeding. At the same time, the large‐scale commercialization of hybrid rice has made great contributions to China's rice production.
Vaccination practices in pediatric transplantation: A survey among member centers of the European reference network TransplantChild
Authors: Donà Daniele , Bravo‐Gallego Luz Yadira , Remacha Esteban Frauca , Cananzi Mara , Gastaldi Andrea , Canizalez Juan Torres , Stephenne Xavier , Lacaille Florence , Lindemans Caroline , Calore Elisabetta , Galea Nathalie , Benetti Elisa , Nachbaur Edith , Sandes Ana Rita , Teixeira Ana , Ferreira Sandra , Klaudel‐Dreszler Maja , Ackermann Oanez , Boyer Olivia , Espinosa Laura , Guereta Luis García , Sciveres Marco , Fischler Björn , Schwerk Nicolaus , Neland Mette , Nicastro Emanuele , Dello Strologo Luca , Toporski Jacek , Vainumae Inga , Rascon Jelena , Urbonas Vaidotas , del Rosal Teresa , López‐Granados Eduardo , Perilongo Giorgio , Baker Alastair , Vega Paloma Jara ,   ERN TransplantChild Healthcare Working Group
Published: August 2023

Background

There is considerable variation in vaccination practices between pediatric transplant centers. This study aims to evaluate active immunization attitudes and practices among ERN‐TransplantChild centers and identify potential areas of improvement that could be addressed by shared evidence‐based protocols.

Methods

A cross‐sectional questionnaire of attitudes and practices toward immunization of pediatric SOT and HSCT candidates and recipients was sent to a representative member of multidisciplinary teams from 27 European centers belonging to the ERN‐TransplantChild.

Results

A total of 28/62 SOT programs and 6/12 HSCT programs across 21 European centers participated. A quarter of centers did not have an on‐site protocol for the immunizations. At the time of transplantation, pediatric candidates were fully immunized (80%–100%) in 57% and 33% of the SOT and HSCT programs. Variations in the time between vaccine administration and admission to the waiting list were reported between the centers, with 2 weeks for inactivated vaccines and variable time (2–4 weeks) for live‐attenuated vaccines (LAVs). Almost all sites recommended immunization in the post‐transplant period, with a time window of 4–8 months for the inactivated vaccines and 16–24 months for MMR and Varicella vaccines. Only five sites administer LAVs after transplantation, with seroconversion evaluated in 80% of cases.

Conclusions

The immunization coverage of European pediatric transplant recipients is still inconsistent and far from adequate. This survey is a starting point for developing shared evidence‐based immunization protocols for safe vaccination among pediatric transplant centers and generating new research studies.
Optimizing medication adherence with home‐monitoring – A feasibility study using capillary microsampling and mHealth in solid organ‐transplanted adolescents
Authors: Kindem Ingvild Andrea , Åsberg Anders , Midtvedt Karsten , Bjerre Anna
Published: August 2023

Background

Reliable methods to detect and reduce medication nonadherence in solid organ‐transplanted (SOT) adolescents are warranted. We aimed to evaluate the feasibility of combining a medication‐manager application (TusenTac®‐app) with home‐sampling of tacrolimus (Tac) in young SOT recipients.

Methods

Kidney and combined SOT recipients between 14 and 25 years were included. During an 8‐week intervention period, the participants were instructed to use the transplant‐specific, age‐adapted TusenTac®‐app daily and to perform weekly at‐home Tac trough finger‐prick microsampling. Microsample Tac concentrations were controlled against timed venous samples twice. Medication implementation and persistence adherence were measured with BAASIS© questionnaires, TusenTac®‐registrations, Tac trough concentration coefficient of variation (CV%) and self‐reporting by interview. For comparison, venous Tac trough CV% were obtained from the year before and after the short‐term intervention.

Results

Twenty‐two recipients were included, two withdrawals, leaving 20; median age 17.9 (14.5–24.8) years, 12 females (60%). The participants registered their dosage intake 88% (1502/1703) of the expected times, and 90% (106/118) of the microsamples were obtained correctly. At inclusion, 11 recipients (55%) were nonadherent assessed with BAASIS© questionnaire, four of these (36%) turned adherent during the intervention period. At the end, 70% reported improved timing‐adherence at the interview. There was no significant change in TacCV% from the year before to the year after the short‐term intervention. Home‐sampling was reliable and measured Tac concentrations accurately.

Conclusions

Home‐monitoring, combining Tac finger‐prick microsampling and a medication‐manager app, is feasible in adolescent SOT recipients with 70% perceived improvement in medication timing‐adherence. There were no significant long‐term changes in TacCV% confirming the need for continuous use and individualized interventions.
Determining the Adaptive Thermal Comfort and Preference Votes of Children in Public Primary Schools in the Hot Semi-arid Climatic Zone of Nigeria
Authors: Abdullah Isa Adam , Salisu Abubakar Sadiq , Dahiru Abdulsalam
Published: August 2023

Provisions for thermal comfort is important to childrens’ performance and health. The lack of good environmental comfort can greatly affect the learning capacity of pupils. An inherent research concern is that current thermal comfort approaches are predicated on the adult subjects. However, there is no certainty on the effect of these approaches towards children. This study is a research survey with experimental measurements using Kestrel 5500 indoor climate tracker on the effects of thermal comfort on the learning capacity of children. It adopted a cross-sectional approach using graphic questionnaires for data collection. The graphic comfort scale sought the pupils to make a subjective voting of their thermal sensations when they were in their classroom environment using the adapted ASHRAE thermal sensation 5 points scale. Concomitantly, measurements were taken with instruments with the records of Mclntyre preference 3 points scale. The result shows that a combined thermal discomfort percentage of about 68.86% (45.92% warm and 22.94% hot) of the students found the environment was not thermally satisfactory at a mean air velocity of 0.53m/s, air temperature of 35.38oC, radiant temperature of 37.33oC and relative humidity of 35.60%. The preference votes of the classes portray a clear preference of 62.30% of the pupils, requested for cooler environment at a mean air velocity of 0.53m/s, air temperature of 35.38oC, radiant temperature of 37.33oC and relative humidity of 35.60%. Consequently, the classroom environment is not thermally comfortable for the pupils. The research recommends that there is the inescapable need for further studies on the use of building materials, opening types and right orientation in construction that will bring down the temperature in the Hot Semiarid climatic zone of Nigeria that will ultimately enhance pupils learning environment.
The Effect of Sole Design on Foot Stress Distribution to Runner
Authors: Mohamad Mohd Riduan , Daud Nur Azra
Published: August 2023

There is an increased stress on the metatarsal when running due to repeated loadings that cause ankle injury. The solid foam structure of the sole may not provide optimum strength and good absorption shock, as demonstrated by previous studies. So, this study aimed to design the shoe sole models of various patterns or topologies and compare the effects of shoe sole design on the foot stress distribution. This study was conducted using three different softwares which were 3-Matic, Solidworks and ANSYS. Three different topologies of sole including circular, elliptical and hexagonal patterns were designed using Solidworks software. A 23 years old female foot with 45 kg weight and 25 cm foot length was scanned using three-dimensional (3D) scanner and modified using 3 Matic software. Foot-sole simulation was carried out in finite element analysis (FEA) platform called ANSYS, considering the nonlinearity and viscoelastic properties of the sole material to reflect the stress distribution on the foot plantar that in contact with three different midsoles of various topologies. The result showed the hexagonal sole pattern has the lowest stress with a maximum of 0.1 MPa. It has the potential to enhance the area of contact between the foot and the sole. The stresses on the foot were more uniformly distributed. The highest stress was found on the elliptical design with 0.19 MPa because the struts will buckle as the compression load changes dramatically thus, it cannot avoid concentrating the stress on the foot. Meanwhile, the circular pattern has a maximum of 0.12 MPa. The increased stress caused by repeated external impact loads when running will cause ankle injury. Therefore, the hexagonal sole design is the most comfortable that will help to reduce ankle injuries. Lastly, more subjects should be involved in the future for the FEA to achieve a solid conclusion.
Electrospun Membrane Fabrication in Assisting Tissues Healing
Authors: Sadia Madeeha , Muhamad Zain Norhidayu , Mohd Daud Nurizzati , Abdullah Faizuan , Chandio Ali Dad , Channa Iftikhar Ahmed , Taqvi Syed Ali Ammar , Nik Malek Nik Ahmad Nizam , Saidin Syafiqah
Published: August 2023

The arrangement of fibers into three-dimensional (3D) complex structure is constructing a sheet of membrane, depending on the fabrication technique. The fiber mats and scaffolds have been used in various applications including tissue engineering which involve the integration of cells and tissues within the pores between the fibers. There are several techniques that have been opted to produce specifically nanofibers as its efficacy in tissue healing is prominent compared to microfibers. Among the fabrication techniques (drawing, template synthesis, temperature-induced phase separation, molecular self-assembly, and electrospinning), electrospinning method has drawn attention due to their easy handling, inexpensive, and ability for membrane scale-up with the production of fibers ranging from few nanometers to several microns. Researchers have employed a variety of electrospinning methods, including blended/co-electrospinning, emulsion, coaxial, side-by-side, and triaxial electrospinning. In electrospinning smooth formation of nanofibers for tissue healing with less appearance of spray and beads, several parameters such as humidity, temperature, voltage, flow rate, viscosity, concentration, molecular weight, surface tension, conductivity, and solvent volatile need to be tailored. The morphology of nanofibers formation should support the size and structure of the surrounded cells and tissues. Besides, the types of degradable polymeric materials also play a role in the formation of stable nanofibers. This review paper aimed to provide information on the techniques to produce nanofibers, intended to the basic exploration of electrospinning.
Review on Conventional Approaches to Balance Assessment
Authors: Hanim Nuria , Khor Yvonne Yee Woon , Khor Kang Xiang , Abdullah Muhammad Najib , Yeong Che Fai , Su Eileen Lee Ming
Published: August 2023

Balancing plays a crucial role in our day-to-day activities and sports performance. However, the evaluation of this skill lacks standardized approaches, resulting in a wide range of practices. This article presents an introduction and critique to some conventional assessment tests used to evaluate balance skills and examines the principles, advantages, and limitations associated with these conventional tools. The conventional balance assessment reviewed in this paper included 10 conventional tests such as Berg Balance Scale, Tinetti Balance Test, Romberg Test, among others, and 2 slightly newer approach, which are the Balance Evaluation Systems Test (BESTest) and the Limits of Stability (LOS) test. The aim of the article was to introduce the available conventional balance assessment methods and highlights the importance of enhancing the conventional method with more precise, individualized approach through incorporation of sensor-based measurements. Suggestions to reduce dependency on manual observation and for more individualized training feedbacks, promoting optimal outcomes in balance training and rehabilitation are also presented.
A Customer Control Assistive Device Based on Microcontroller-based Embedded System for COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Lim Joyce Xin Yee , Nursyameera Athirah Aziz  , Nur Farra Aisyah binti Nafrizam  , Yvonne Wong Liang Liang  , Ubaidur Rahman Asem , Hau Yuan Wen
Published: August 2023

The study discusses the impact of COVID-19 in our daily lives and how social distancing is an effective method to prevent the spread of the virus. The paper highlights the importance of maintaining social distancing in crowded areas such as retail shops, which are at high risk of COVID-19 spread. To ensure social distancing, retail shops usually hire an employee to limit the number of customers in the shop. However, hiring a human employee during the pandemic comes with many disadvantages as the employee is at high risk of getting infected with the virus. To address this issue, the study developed a customer control assistive device based on automatic voltage regulator (AVR) microcontroller-based embedded system designed to help detect the number of people entering a particular area while minimizing the use of manual assistance. This device consisted of infrared sensors to detect the head count who enter or exit from a premises, as well as auto hand sanitizer system based on sensor and micro servo motor before a visitor enters the premises. With this assistive device, retailers now can set the total number of customers allowed to enter their shop by simply key in the total number of customers allowed to enter. This feature helps retailers to ensure that the number of customers is always within safe ranges automatically to maintain social distancing.
A Microcontroller-based RFID Record Tracker for COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Lim Su Shen , Zairul Nisha Adibah , MD Khalid Fatin Ayuni , Chua Jin Xiu , Hau Yuan Wen
Published: August 2023

Covid-19, also known as coronavirus disease 2019, is a highly contagious disease primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets. To mitigate the spread of the virus, the Malaysia government have implemented measures such as MySejahtera app for contact tracking purposes. The ‘Check-in’ feature is the core element in MySejahtera app where users will scan a QR code prior to entering a premise. However, it has some drawbacks in which a phone with internet connectivity and working camera are needed to scan the QR code. To overcome the limitations and ease the burden on the public, this paper proposes a RFID record tracker based on Atmel ATmega328P and NodeMCU ESP-12E technology as a complementary function to the ‘Check-in’ feature offered by MySejahtera. It has a RFID reader and built-in temperature sensor. It is ideally visualized to be sharing the same database with MySejahtera. This solution can be connected to the WiFi of the premise, thus the public just have to bring their Malaysian IC or relative RFID tag along with them. Once scanned, the system will crosscheck with the connected database to check their vaccination status and determine whether to grant access for them to enter the premise. At the same time, their record will be logged into associated database of the premise as well. All in all, this solution is designed in hopes to reduce the burden on public while easing the process of contact tracing.
Seven Days in May: An Afrocentric Diagnosis of Shepherd Mpofu’s Facebook Roar
Authors: Shai Kgothatso B.
Published: August 2023

As a relatively new media, social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp and Instagram have received the attention of scholars emanating from Political Science, Public Administration, Media and Communication Studies, inter alia. Given that it is difficult to gaze the measure of adequacy, it suffices to mention that much of the scholarly works on this subject are disciplinary inward looking and Western centred- which exposes them to deficiency in capturing the African reality in its totality. As such, this interdisciplinary paper examines a sample of Mpofu’s Facebook roar during May 2023 on the basis of an Afrocentric lens and auto-ethnographic approach. The key argument of this paper is that Mpofu’s roar does not have a sound academic basis. But it is a revelation of underlying scholarly limits (enter profanity) which are common to all but worse for those with troubled consciousness.
The Impact of the Digital Era on Spanish-Speaking Social Audiences: A Systematic Review of Its Academic Literature
Authors: Iniesta-Alemán Isabel , Bautista Pavel Sidorenko
Published: August 2023

We are currently witnessing a paradigm shift in digital communication, determined by platformization. Digital channels have abandoned any unidirectional pretension to become interactive and bidirectional channels. Through a systematic literature review, this research aims to obtain a clear, complete, and updated definition of the concept of "social audience". The results point to an increase in the incidence of terms such as participation, participatory audience, and social networks, without specifically alluding to the concept of social audience, allowing evidence of a lack of consensus in terminology and the approach to the role of audiences in the current digital context. The lack of consensus leaves open considerations and debates on the study of cyber activism, as well as public opinion and influencers, for example.
Visualizing Conflict: Analyzing Visual Narratives of Photojournalistic Images of Balkan War Refugees
Authors: Ziberi Linda , Lengel Lara Martin , Limani Artan
Published: August 2023

As part of a larger research program on media coverage and representation of the conflicts in the Balkans, we examine humanizing visualizations of armed conflict. The study focuses, in particular, on photojournalistic accounts of the humanitarian crisis in Kosovo at the 25th anniversary of the Kosovo war. Drawing, in particular, on Ariella Aïsha Azoulay’s (2008) concept of the civil contract of photography, this study analyses how victims of humanitarian catastrophes are represented and what images communicate in terms of family, gender, international communication, and conflict. We interrogate visual signifiers in conflict and global narrative constructions of refugees fleeing from conflict and how the visual rhetoric of war and conflict aims to elicit affective responses. Finally, the study highlights the work of women photojournalists in Kosovo and the Balkans and the impact of their work twenty-five years onward.