bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamic Resource Allocation: Algorithmic Design Principles and Spectrum of Achievable Performances
Authors: Besbes Omar , Kanoria Yash , Kumar Akshit
Published: November 2024

In “Dynamic Resource Allocation: Algorithmic Design Principles and Spectrum of Achievable Performances,” O. Besbes, Y. Kanoria, and A. Kumar consider a broad class of dynamic resource allocation problems and study the performance of practical algorithms. In particular, they focus on the interplay between the distribution of request types and achievable performance, given the broad set of configurations that can be encountered in practical settings. Although prior literature studied either a small number of request types or a continuum of types with no gaps, the present work allows for a large class of type distributions. Using initially the prototypical multisecretary problem to explore fundamental performance limits as a function of type distribution properties, the authors develop a new algorithmic property “conservativeness with respect to gaps” that guarantees near-optimal performance. In turn, they introduce a practically motivated, simulation-based algorithm and establish its near-optimal performance, not only for multisecretary problems, but also for general dynamic resource allocation problems.
Improving inhaler technique and adherence in children
Authors: Duncan Debbie
Published: November 2024

How to improve the use of inhalers to manage asthma in children and young people. By Debbie Duncan
Effect of dietary supplementation of turmeric, Curcuma longa leaf on growth and health status of African catfish, Clarias gariepinus
Authors:   Department of Agricultural Sciences, Faculty of Agro-Based Industry, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, Jeli Campus,Kelantan 17600, Malaysia, Wei Lee Seong , Hooi Kon Yeu ,   Department of Johor State Fisheries Complex, Gelang Patah, Johor 81550, Malaysia, Khoo Martina Irwan ,   Department of Chemical Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Health Campus, Kubang Kerian, Kelantan 16150, Malaysia, MN Azra ,   Institute of Climate Adaptation and Marine Biotechnology (ICAMB), Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Terengganu 21030, Malaysia,   Research Center for Marine and Land Bioindustry, Earth Sciences and Maritime Organization, National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Pemenang 83352, Indonesia, Wee Wendy ,   Centre for Fundamental and Continuing Education, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Terengganu 21030, Malaysia
Published: November 2024

High stocking density poses a risk to an aquaculture species' production and health status, increasing their vulnerability to diseases and infection. Feed additive reportedly enhances the growth and health of farmed fish. Therefore, this study evaluated the effects of turmeric, Curcuma longa, leaf powder on the growth performance, digestive enzyme activity, hematology, antioxidative response, and disease resistance of African catfish. A feeding trial was conducted using a control diet and three experimental diets containing powdered C. longa leaf at various levels (0.5%, 1.0%, and 1.5%). After eight weeks, the growth performance of African catfish supplemented with C. longa leaf powder improved significantly (p <0.05), particularly the fish fed with 1.5% turmeric leaf powder. Meanwhile, the FCR was significantly reduced in the treatment groups compared to the control group, where the CL15 group recorded the lowest FCR. Furthermore, the fish fed 1.5% powdered C. longa leaf had substantially higher (p <0.05) lipase, protease, and amylase activities than other groups. Powdered C. longa leaf supplementation also significantly enhanced (p <0.05) the antioxidative responses of African catfish compared to the control group, particularly glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT). In addition, the cumulative survival rate was significantly (p <0.05) higher in fish that received powdered C. longa leaf,with the highest being the CL15 group. In summary, 1.5% powdered C. longa leaf is possibly the optimal dosage for African catfish feed to boost their productivity.
Exploring Campylobacter jejuni: Elucidating pathogenic mechanisms, virulence factors, antimicrobial resistance in diverse animal species
Authors:   Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, Kota Bharu 16100,Malaysia, Amaeze Chinedu Frank , Dauda Goni Mohammed ,   Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, Kota Bharu 16100,Malaysia Institute for Artificial Intelligence and Big Data, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, 16100 Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia, Kamaruzzaman Fadhilah ,   Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, Kota Bharu 16100,Malaysia, Sani Gaddafi Mohammed ,   Department of Public Health, Ministry of Animal Health, Husbandry and Fisheries, Kebbi State 860101, Nigeria, Yakubu Aliyu ,   Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, Kota Bharu 16100,Malaysia Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources Damaturu, Yobe State 620101, Nigeria
Published: November 2024

Campylobacter and its species, with a specific reference to Campylobacter jejuni. are zoonotic pathogens known to cause food-borne diseases and are ideally found in humans, poultry, cattle, and even mammals in certain cases. C. jejuni is the predominant foodborne pathogen regularly found in both pets and food animals, posing a significant risk of zoonotic infections to humans and animals alike. Consequently, infections caused by C. jejuni are a substantial concern for global public health, animal welfare, and the food industry. Campylobacter colonizes its host by overcoming stomach acidity, adhering to intestinal epithelial cells using specialized surface structures, and producing virulence factors to establish infection and proliferate within the gastrointestinal tract. Epidemiologically, Campylobacter's transmission dynamics, risk factors, and patterns of infection spread are crucial considerations in understanding and controlling its impact on public health. The global trend of C. jejuni occurrence has significant implications for public health, necessitating heightened surveillance, prevention, and control measures to mitigate the burden of foodborne illness and reduce the associated economic and societal costs. The emergence of Campylobacter strains resistant to multiple antimicrobials poses serious threats to public health, including treatment challenges, increased severity of infections, heightened transmission risk, and potential spread of resistance genes to other bacteria, underscoring the need for enhanced surveillance, antimicrobial stewardship, and research into alternative treatment approaches. Consequently, this review focuses on the intricacies of Campylobacter jejuni with a particular focus on pathogenicity, virulence factors, host specificity, prevalence on different animal models, and antimicrobial resistance including multidrug resistance.
Revolutionizing diabetic retinopathy screening and management: The role of artificial intelligence and machine learning
Authors: Abdalla Mona Mohamed Ibrahim , Mohanraj Jaiprakash
Published: November 2024

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) remains a leading cause of vision impairment and blindness among individuals with diabetes, necessitating innovative approaches to screening and management. This editorial explores the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in revolutionizing DR care. AI and ML technologies have demonstrated remarkable advancements in enhancing the accuracy, efficiency, and accessibility of DR screening, helping to overcome barriers to early detection. These technologies leverage vast datasets to identify patterns and predict disease progression with unprecedented precision, enabling clinicians to make more informed decisions. Furthermore, AI-driven solutions hold promise in personalizing management strategies for DR, incorporating predictive analytics to tailor interventions and optimize treatment pathways. By automating routine tasks, AI can reduce the burden on healthcare providers, allowing for a more focused allocation of resources towards complex patient care. This review aims to evaluate the current advancements and applications of AI and ML in DR screening, and to discuss the potential of these technologies in developing personalized management strategies, ultimately aiming to improve patient outcomes and reduce the global burden of DR. The integration of AI and ML in DR care represents a paradigm shift, offering a glimpse into the future of ophthalmic healthcare.
Impact of community public health care on treatment effect, health cognition, and self-management in patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Shi Hong , Liu Chun , Luo Hong-Yan
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

At present, China has become the country with the largest number of individuals with diabetes mellitus (DM) in the world, with a total of approximately 140 million patients, the majority of whom have type 2 DM (T2DM). Based on conventional nursing methods, community home care has important clinical significance in controlling blood sugar and disease progression.

AIM

To explore the impact of community public health nursing on treatment effect, health cognition, and self-management in patients with T2DM.

METHODS

One hundred patients with T2DM were selected as the research subjects. The patients were divided into either a conventional nursing group or community nursing (CN) group using the random number table method. The conventional nursing group (50 cases) received routine care, while the CN group (50 cases) received community public health care in addition to routine care as that for the conventional nursing group. The rate of excellent and good blood glucose control, fasting blood glucose before and after care, 2-h postprandial blood glucose, health cognition, and self-management ability, and patient satisfaction were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

The CN group had a higher rate of excellent blood sugar control than the conventional nursing group (88% vs 70%, P < 0.05). Before care, there was no significant difference in fasting blood glucose or 2-h postprandial blood glucose between the two groups of patients (P > 0.05). After nursing, fasting blood glucose and 2-h postprandial blood glucose were reduced to varying degrees in both groups, and both blood glucose levels in the CN group were lower than those of the conventional nursing group (P < 0.05). Compared with the scores before care, the cognitive level score for diabetes and self-management ability score improved after care in both groups. The cognitive level and self-management ability of patients in the CN group were higher than those of the conventional nursing group (P < 0.05). The overall satisfaction of the CN group was better than that of the conventional nursing group (98% vs 86%, P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Community public health care based on conventional care of T2DM can achieve better blood sugar control, and improve patients’ health cognitive level and self-management ability.
Importance of etiologies of secondary diabetes: How often do we think off in clinical practice?
Authors: Reddy Kotha Sugunakar , Morya Arvind Kumar , Gaur Archana , Varatharajan Sakthivadivel
Published: November 2024

The article "Secondary diabetes due to different etiologies: Four case reports" by Song et al , published in the World Journal of Clinical Cases , delves into the identification of rare causes of secondary diabetes and emphasizes the necessity for healthcare professionals to recognize these conditions. Failure to do so can result in treatment delays and compromised patient outcomes. The article discusses specific types of diabetes, including maturity onset of diabetes in young, pancreas-related diseases, endocrinopathies, drug-induced diabetes, infections, and congenital genetic syndromes associated with diabetes mellitus. Case summaries highlight how patients with secondary diabetes, stemming from conditions such as Williams-Beuren syndrome and pituitary adenoma, often exhibit distinct characteristics overlooked in clinical practice. The authors stress the importance of a holistic diagnostic approach and advocate for proactive management through early intervention, including genetic tests and antibody detection. Increased awareness and education are crucial for timely identification and proper management, ultimately improving patient well-being. These findings prompt a call to action for healthcare professionals to consider rare causes of secondary diabetes, facilitating better glycemic control and overall patient care.
Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia in children
Authors: Butpech Thakoon , Tovichien Prakarn
Published: November 2024

Mycoplasma pneumoniae (M. pneumoniae ) is a common pathogen that causes community-acquired pneumonia in children. The clinical presentation of this pathogen can range from mild self-limiting illness to severe and refractory cases. Complications may occur, such as necrotizing pneumonia and respiratory failure. Extrapulmonary complications, including encephalitis, myocarditis, nephritis, hepatitis, or even multiple organ failure, can also arise. In this editorial, we discuss the clinical implications of the significant findings from the article "Serum inflammatory markers in children with M. pneumoniae pneumonia and their predictive value for mycoplasma severity" published by Wang et al . They reported that measuring lactic dehydrogenase, interleukin-6 levels, and D-dimer effectively predicts refractory M. pneumoniae pneumonia cases.
Masquelet technique using an allogeneic cortical bone graft for a large bone defect: A case report
Authors: Zong Hai-Yang , Liu Yu , Yin Xing , Zhou Wei , Li Nan
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

The induced-membrane technique was initially described by Masquelet as an effective treatment for large bone defects, especially those caused by infection. Here, we report a case of chronic osteomyelitis of the radius associated with a 9 cm bone defect, which was filled with a large allogeneic cortical bone graft from a bone bank. Complete bony union was achieved after 14 months of follow-up. Previous studies have used autogenous bone as the primary bone source for the Masquelet technique; in our case, the exclusive use of allografts is as successful as the use of autologous bone grafts. With the advent of bone banks, it is possible to obtain an unlimited amount of allograft, and the Masquelet technique may be further improved based on this new way of bone grafting.

CASE SUMMARY

In this study, we reported a case of repair of a long bone defect in a 40-year-old male patient, which was characterized by the utilization of allograft cortical bone combined with the Masquelet technique for the treatment of the patient's long bone defect in the forearm. The patient's results of functional recovery of the forearm were surprising, which further deepens the scope of application of Masquelet technique and helps to strengthen the efficacy of Masquelet technique in the treatment of long bones indeed.

CONCLUSION

Allograft cortical bone combined with the Masquelet technique provides a new method of treatment to large bone defect.
Phenomenology of (3+1) Four Flavour Neutrino Oscillations in Dense Matter
Authors: Shrivastava Ashish , Koranga Bipin Singh , Rawat Seema
Published: November 2024

The mass square difference varies as neutrinos interact with the matter, assuming four flavours of neutrino oscillations. Three regions – vacuum-dominated, resonance-dominated, and matter-dominated – are where the neutrinos oscillate. This research goes on to examine how each of these three locations affects the likelihood of neutrino oscillations and the mass square difference in distinct ways. There are three alternative analytical formulas for the mass square difference. In this study, we have studied the behaviour of neutrino oscillations for four flavours in vacuum-dominated, resonance-dominated, and matter-dominated regions.
‘Now there you go, there’s my life. All my life is coming to prisons!’: persistent punishment in the lives of Scottish families affected by imprisonment
Authors: Foster Rebecca
Published: November 2024

Internationally, there has been increased attention by research, policy and practice to the experiences of the family members of prisoners. Scotland continues to experience a disproportionately high rate of imprisonment, and this often translates to those punished serving repeated sentences, sometimes over the course of their lives, so-called ‘persistent punishment’. Yet, so far under-explored is how this plays out in the lives of the family members ‘on the outside’. This article draws from ethnographic fieldwork and qualitative interviews. It seeks to foreground the experience of persistent punishment for affected families. In so doing, the article explores how family members respond and adapt to frequent, and often sustained, interactions with the prison. It explores how families maintain relationships, and how they (re) fit prison into their lives, albeit not without challenge or strain. The article calls for greater recognition to be paid into how imprisonment fits into the broader context of families’ lives.
Rethinking descriptive representation in the 2019–20 US Democratic primary debates
Authors: Xydias Christina
Published: November 2024

Advocacy for historically marginalized groups is often attributed to officeholders who are viewed as group members themselves, called “descriptive representatives.” However, this account of political representation rarely includes whether the officeholder self-identifies as a group member. A burgeoning literature examines the significance of public figures’ self-presentation. This study splices public figures’ self-presentation into analyses of the correspondence between descriptive and substantive representation. It examines the US Democratic primary debates (2019–20) for descriptive and substantive representation. It shows that public figures who are not widely received as members of historically marginalized groups may nonetheless narratively construct the descriptive representation that is generally expected to go with substantive representation. Individuals who are widely viewed as descriptive representatives do not consistently call attention to this group membership; however, when they do, they are especially likely to advocate for the social groups whose membership they are understood to share.
Comparison and analysis of methods for measuring the spin transverse relaxation time of rubidium atomic vapor
Authors: Zhang Lulu , Yang Yongbiao , Zhao Junye , Wang Yanhua , Wang Junmin
Published: November 2024

The spin transverse relaxation time (T2) of atoms is an important indicator for magnetic field precision measurement. Especially in optically-pumped atomic magnetometer, the linewidth of the magnetic resonance signal is one of the most important parameters of sensitivity, which is inversely correlated with T2 of atoms. In this paper, we propose four methods, namely spin noise spectroscopy signal fitting, radio-frequency free induction decay (RF-FID) signal fitting, ω
m
(modulation frequency)-broadening fitting, and magnetic resonance broadening fitting, for in-situ measurement T2 of atomic vapor cells based on light-atom interactions. Meanwhile, T2 of three Rubidium (Rb) atomic vapor cells with different parameters are measured and discussed by using these four methods. A comparative analysis visualizes the characteristics of the different methods and the effects of buffer gas on T2 of Rb atoms. Through theoretical and experimental analysis, we assess the applicability of each method and concluded that the RF-FID signal fitting method provides the most accurate measurements due to the timing sequence control system, which results in a cleaner measurement environment. Furthermore, we demonstrate and qualitatively analyze the relationship between temperature and T2 of Rb atoms. This work may offer valuable insights into the selection of atomic vapor cells and it is also applicable for the spin-exchange relaxation-free region.
Towards 250-m gigabits-per-second underwater wireless optical communication using a low-complexity ANN equalizer
Authors: Dong Xiaohe , Zhang Kuokuo , Sun Caiming , Zhang Jun , Zhang Aidong , Wang Lijun
Published: November 2024

The breakthroughs of communication distance and data rate have been eagerly anticipated by scientists in the area of underwater wireless optical communication (UWOC), which is seriously limited by the obvious aquatic attenuation in underwater channel. High-power laser source and ultra-sensitive photodetector are straightforward to extend the UWOC distance. However, nonlinear impairments caused by bandwidth-limited high-power transmitter and sensitive receiver severely degrade the data rate of long-distance UWOC. In this paper, we develop a UWOC system using a high-power transmitter by beam combining of 8-channel cascaded laser diodes (LD) and a sensitive receiver by a silicon photomultiplier (SiPM). The combined linear equalizer and low-complexity Artificial Neural Network (ANN) equalizer are used to achieve 1-Gbps data transmission over a 250-m UWOC system. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first Gbps-level UWOC experimental demonstration in >250-meter underwater transmission that has ever been reported. To lower the complexity of the ANN equalizer, a linear equalizer is applied first in order to prune the input size of the ANN equalizer. The optimal input size of the ANN equalizer is identified as 9. And the ANN architecture consists of two hidden layers, with 10 neurons in the first layer and a single neuron in the second layer. The performance of the proposed ANN-based system is compared with that of systems employing Volterra and linear equalizers. The bit error rate (BER) at data rate of 1 Gbps over a 250-m UWOC is reduced to 3.4×10¯³ with the combined linear and ANN equalizer, which is below the hard-decision forward error correction (HD-FEC) limit. In contrast, the linear and Volterra equalizer-based systems achieve data rates of 500 Mbps and 750 Mbps, respectively.
Simulation and experiment of tilted fiber Bragg grating humidity sensor coated with PVA/GO nanofiber film by electrospinning
Authors: Li Jinze , Deng Li , Sun Hao , Xi Jiawei , Yang Yanxin , Liu Xin , Jian Chao , Li Xiang , he weiming
Published: November 2024

Relative humidity is an important parameter of environmental monitoring and receives widespread attention. Complex and bulky commercial sensors are limited by their cost. In this paper, a new TFBG optical fiber humidity sensor based on electrospinning nanofibers of composite polymer material and graphene oxide is designed. The TFBG transmission spectrums of different grating parameters and environmental temperature and humidity are simulated by OptiGrating software. The higher-order cladding mode is more sensitive to the refractive index change of the external environment. In the experiment, we innovatively combined the polymer material of PVA with nanoparticles material of GO to improve the performance of the sensor by using the ultra-large specific surface area of nanofibers. The experimental results show that the TFBG humidity sensitivity is -0.24 pm/%RH in the range of 35%-85%RH. The optical fiber sensors with small size, light weight and low cost are more attractive in the field of environmental monitoring.
Experimental Investigation for Designing Compact Narrow-Linewidth and High-Extinction DBR Filters
Authors: Swain Pranita , Goswami Arnab , Das Bijoy Krishna
Published: November 2024

An experimental investigation assisted with coupled mode theory for distributed Bragg reflector (DBR) in a single-mode SiN rib waveguide has been carried out in order to obtain narrow-linewidth and high-extinction
filters operating in optical C-band (λ ∼ 1550 nm), for silicon photonics applications. A uniform sub-wavelength grating structure with a given periodicity is considered in the cladding region of the rib waveguide structure for the DBR response studies. The upper limit of periodic perturbation strength has been evaluated for designing narrow-linewidth and high extinction DBR filters using coupled mode theory approximation. This study enables photonic integrated circuit design engineers to
design a relatively simple and shorter length of DBR device (∼1 mm) exhibiting 3-dB bandwidth as narrow as ∼ 1-nm and rejection as high as > 40-dB, which can be easily integrated for large-scale complex photonic
integrated circuit functionalities.
High-order multilayer-coated blazed grating for a high-transmission and high-resolution tender X-ray monochromator/spectrometer
Authors: Zhuang Yeqi , Huang Qiushi , Sokolov Andrey , Lemke Stephanie , Liu Zhengkun , Yu Yue , Kozhevnikov Igor V. , Qi Runze , Zhang Zhe , Zhang Zhong , Viefhaus Jens , Wang Zhanshan
Published: November 2024

Grating optics lie in the heart of X-ray spectroscopy instruments. The low efficiency and angular dispersion of conventional single-layer-coated gratings significantly limit the transmission and energy resolution of monochromators and spectrometers, particularly in the tender X-ray region (E=1−5  keV). Multilayer-coated blazed gratings (MLBGs) operating at high diffraction orders offer the advantage of achieving both high efficiency and high dispersion simultaneously. Tender X-ray monochromators and spectrometers using different high-order MLBGs have been designed, all demonstrating one to two orders of magnitude higher transmission compared to conventional systems. By employing a 2400 l/mm MLBG at the −4th or −8th diffraction order, the theoretical energy resolution of the instrument is improved by two to three times at 2.5 keV. Two MLBGs operating at the −2nd and −4th orders have been fabricated, showcasing remarkable efficiencies of 34%–12% at 2.5 keV, surpassing that of single-layer-coated gratings by an order of magnitude. Further optimization of manufacturing accuracy can yield even higher efficiencies. The measured angular dispersion agrees well with theoretical predictions, supporting the potential for high resolution. High-order MLBG optics pave the way for a new generation of tender X-ray monochromators/spectrometers that offer both high transmission and high resolution.
Efficient numerical Fresnel diffraction with Gabor frames
Authors: Blinder David , Birnbaum Tobias , Schelkens Peter
Published: November 2024

Numerical Fresnel diffraction is broadly used in optics and holography in particular. So far, it has been implemented using convolutional approaches, spatial convolutions, or the fast Fourier transform. We propose a new way, to our knowledge, of computing Fresnel diffraction using Gabor frames and chirplets. Contrary to previous techniques, the algorithm has linear-time complexity, does not exhibit aliasing, does not need zero padding, has no constraints on changing shift/resolution/pixel pitch between source and destination planes, and works at any propagation distance. We provide theoretical and numerical analyses, detail the algorithm, and report simulation results with an accelerated GPU implementation. This algorithm may serve as a basis for more flexible, faster, and memory-efficient computer-generated holography methods.
Niche-specific metabolic phenotypes can be used to identify antimicrobial targets in pathogens
Authors: Glass Emma M. , Dillard Lillian R. , Kolling Glynis L. , Warren Andrew S. , Papin Jason A.
Published: November 2024

Bacterial pathogens pose a major risk to human health, leading to tens of millions of deaths annually and significant global economic losses. While bacterial infections are typically treated with antibiotic regimens, there has been a rapid emergence of antimicrobial resistant (AMR) bacterial strains due to antibiotic overuse. Because of this, treatment of infections with traditional antimicrobials has become increasingly difficult, necessitating the development of innovative approaches for deeply understanding pathogen function. To combat issues presented by broad- spectrum antibiotics, the idea of narrow-spectrum antibiotics has been previously proposed and explored. Rather than interrupting universal bacterial cellular processes, narrow-spectrum antibiotics work by targeting specific functions or essential genes in certain species or subgroups of bacteria. Here, we generate a collection of genome-scale metabolic network reconstructions (GENREs) of pathogens through an automated computational pipeline. We used these GENREs to identify subgroups of pathogens that share unique metabolic phenotypes and determined that pathogen physiological niche plays a role in the development of unique metabolic function. For example, we identified several unique metabolic phenotypes specific to stomach pathogens. We identified essential genes unique to stomach pathogens in silico and a corresponding inhibitory compound for a uniquely essential gene. We then validated our in silico predictions with an in vitro microbial growth assay. We demonstrated that the inhibition of a uniquely essential gene, thyX, inhibited growth of stomach-specific pathogens exclusively, indicating possible physiological location-specific targeting. This pioneering computational approach could lead to the identification of unique metabolic signatures to inform future targeted, physiological location-specific, antimicrobial therapies, reducing the need for broad-spectrum antibiotics.
Integrative pan-cancer analysis reveals a common architecture of dysregulated transcriptional networks characterized by loss of enhancer methylation
Authors: Ankill Jørgen , Zhao Zhi , Tekpli Xavier , Kure Elin H. , Kristensen Vessela N. , Mathelier Anthony , Fleischer Thomas
Published: November 2024

Aberrant DNA methylation contributes to gene expression deregulation in cancer. However, these alterations’ precise regulatory role and clinical implications are still not fully understood. In this study, we performed expression-methylation Quantitative Trait Loci (emQTL) analysis to identify deregulated cancer-driving transcriptional networks linked to CpG demethylation pan-cancer. By analyzing 33 cancer types from The Cancer Genome Atlas, we identified and confirmed significant correlations between CpG methylation and gene expression (emQTL) in cis and trans, both across and within cancer types. Bipartite network analysis of the emQTL revealed groups of CpGs and genes related to important biological processes involved in carcinogenesis including proliferation, metabolism and hormone-signaling. These bipartite communities were characterized by loss of enhancer methylation in specific transcription factor binding regions (TFBRs) and the CpGs were topologically linked to upregulated genes through chromatin loops. Penalized Cox regression analysis showed a significant prognostic impact of the pan-cancer emQTL in many cancer types. Taken together, our integrative pan-cancer analysis reveals a common architecture where hallmark cancer-driving functions are affected by the loss of enhancer methylation and may be epigenetically regulated.
Perioperative administration of sub-anesthetic ketamine/esketamine for preventing postpartum depression symptoms: A trial sequential meta-analysis
Authors: Hung Kuo-Chuan , Kao Chia-Li , Lai Yi-Chen , Chen Jen-Yin , Lin Chien-Hung , Ko Ching-Chung , Lin Chien-Ming , Chen I-Wen
Published: November 2024

Objective

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a major mental health issue affecting 10%–15% of women globally. This meta-analysis synthesized updated evidence on sub-anesthetic ketamine/esketamine’s efficacy in preventing PPD.

Methods

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing ketamine/esketamine to a placebo for PPD prevention were searched without language restriction. Primary outcomes were PPD risk at 1- and 4–6-week postpartum. Secondary outcomes included the difference in depression scores and risk of adverse events. Trial sequential analysis (TSA) was conducted to validate the reliability.

Results

A meta-analysis of 22 RCTs (n = 3,463) showed that ketamine/esketamine significantly decreased PPD risk at 1- (risk ratio [RR], 0.41; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.3–0.57) and 4–6-week (RR, 0.47; 95%CI, 0.35–0.63) follow-ups. Consistently, participants receiving ketamine/esketamine had lower depression-related scores at 1- (standardized mean difference [SMD], −0.94; 95%CI, −1.26 to −0.62) and 4–6-week (SMD, −0.89; 95%CI, −1.25 to −0.53) follow-ups. Despite potential publication bias, TSA confirmed the evidence’s reliability. Subgroup analysis showed that ketamine/esketamine’s preventive effect on 1-week PPD was consistent, regardless of administration timing, type of agents, or total dosage (<0.5 vs. ≥0.5 mg/kg). For the 4–6-week period, PPD risk was favorably reduced only with postoperative administration or the use of esketamine, with the total dosage having no observed influence. Participants on ketamine/esketamine experienced more frequency of hallucinations (RR, 4.77; 95%CI, 1.39–16.44) and dizziness (RR, 1.36; 95%CI, 1.02–1.81).

Conclusion

Our findings advocate for the postoperative administration of low-dose ketamine/esketamine to avert PPD, which needed additional research for confirmation.
Anemia status and its determinants among reproductive-age women in Tanzania: A multi-level analysis of Tanzanian demographic and health survey data
Authors: Kassie Gizachew Ambaw , Hailegebireal Aklilu Habte , Gebrekidan Amanuel Yosef , Woldegeorgis Beshada Zerfu , Adella Getachew Asmare , Haile Kirubel Eshetu , Asgedom Yordanos Sisay
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Anemia is significantly associated with morbidity and mortality in women of reproductive age. Determining the prevalence and identifying associated risk factors remains an important topic in public health. Therefore, this study aimed to estimate and identify the risk factors for anemia in women of reproductive age in Tanzania.

Materials and methods

A cross-sectional study utilizing secondary data from the Tanzania Demographic and Health Survey of 2022 was conducted. Weighted total samples of 8,921 reproductive-age women were included in the analysis. A multilevel Poisson regression model was employed to account for the hierarchical structure of the TDHS data. Deviance was used to compare the models. In the multivariable multilevel mixed-effects Poisson regression model with robust variance, adjusted prevalence ratios with corresponding 95% confidence intervals were used to identify the determinants of anemia.

Results

The prevalence of anemia among women of reproductive age in Tanzania was 42.02% [95% CI: (40.79%–43.25%)]. Of these, 19.82%, 19.35%, and 2.84% had mild, moderate, and severe anemia, respectively. The regression results revealed that women from households with the poorest wealth quantiles, underweight, pregnant status, high community poverty level, and women from the eastern and Zanzibar administrative zones had a higher prevalence of anemia. While currently employed, moderate alcohol consumption and use of hormonal contraceptive methods were associated with a lower prevalence of anemia.

Conclusion

The findings of the study showed that anemia is a severe public health issue among women of reproductive age in Tanzania, affecting more than four in ten women. Interventions targeting the improvement of nutrition, access to healthcare services, and education on anemia prevention and management should be prioritized to reduce the burden of anemia effectively.
Effects of jogi, Micropogonias undulatus, addition on the production of volatile compounds in baechu-kimchi
Authors: Lee Gawon , Heo Sojeong , Park Junghyun , Lee Jung-Sug , Jeong Do-Won
Published: November 2024

Baechu-kimchi is a traditional vegetable fermented food using kimchi cabbage (Brassica rapa) as the main ingredient. A wide variety of ingredients can be used in kimchi depending on the specific region and even household. Although there have been a lot of studies examining various aspects of kimchi, there has been limited research on kimchi with added fish as a minor ingredient. Therefore, in the present work we aimed to assess changes in the volatile compounds of baechu-kimchi with the addition of seafood used as minor ingredients of kimchi. Sulfur compounds were the most commonly detected volatile compounds; 9 categories of volatile components were detected in total. Altogether, 30 sulfur compounds were detected, and among them, five sulfur compounds: (E)-1-(methyltrisulfanyl)prop-1-ene, 1-(methyldisulfanyl)-1-methylsulfanylpropane, (methyltetrasulfanyl)methane, 1-(methyldisulfanyl)-1-[(E)-prop-1-enyl]sulfanylpropane, and 1,1-bis(methyldisulfanyl)propane, were found only in jogi-added kimchi, thus confirming the influence of jogi addition. Principal component analysis revealed clear distinctions in the volatile compounds as a result of jogi addition as fermentation progressed. Moreover, when confirming the correlation with microbial populations, it was evident that the differentiation in volatile compounds was more attributable to jogi addition than microbial impact. In conclusion, the addition of jogi to baechu-kimchi led to an abundance of volatile compounds by the 20th day of fermentation.
Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on intra-household gender disparities in the Middle East and North Africa region: A scoping review protocol
Authors: Ghezzawi Malak , Fahme Sasha , Naalbandian Salpy , DeJong Jocelyn ,   WOMENA Study Group
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) is a global outlier both for its low female labor force participation and investment in early childhood development services, and consistently ranks lowest on global rankings of gender parity. While the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on global gender inequity has been acknowledged, specific challenges faced by partnered-women in MENA are underexplored. Additionally, with over half of the region affected by conflict and displacement, exploring these impacts sheds light on understudied gender disparities in humanitarian contexts during the pandemic. This scoping review aims to examine intra-household gender disparities during the COVID-19 pandemic, adding to a more comprehensive understanding of this particular public health emergency’s worldwide ramifications. The hypothesis is that the pandemic has exacerbated women’s pre-existing constraints in the MENA region, worsening gender inequities in economic empowerment, healthcare access, and general well-being.

Methods

This review will explore intra-household gender disparities in decision-making, household labor division, economic independence, health, and access to resources and services during the COVID-19 pandemic that have been reported to have been affected by COVID-19 globally. Following PRISMA guidelines for Scoping Reviews, a comprehensive search will be conducted in APA PsycINFO, Arab World Research Source: Al Masdar, EconLit, Global Health, MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science Core Collection, in consultation with an information specialist. Studies in English, French and Arabic from January 2020 to August 2024 will be included. Four independent reviewers will screen studies, and data will be charted, coded, and narratively synthesized.

Discussion

This review is expected to shed light on gender disparities in healthcare accessibility, mobility, and decision-making during the COVID-19 pandemic across low- and middle-income countries in the MENA region, adding to the global literature.
Attenuated Getah virus confers protection against multiple arthritogenic alphaviruses
Authors: Jiang Zhiwen , Merits Andres , Qin Ying , Xing Gang , Zhang Letian , Chen Jie , Wang Ningning , Varjak Margus , Zhai Xiaofeng , Li Dongyan , Song Wanjie , Su Shuo
Published: November 2024

Alphaviruses are important arthropod-transmitted pathogens of humans and livestock. Getah virus (GETV) is an arthritogenic alphavirus that causes disease in horses and piglets; it also poses a potential threat to humans. A live attenuated vaccine candidate named GETV-3ΔS2-CM1, harbouring a deletion in nonstructural protein 3 and substitutions in the capsid protein, is genetically stable and exhibits robust immunogenicity. It was shown to confer passive protection to piglets born to immunized sows. In mice, a single dose of GETV-3ΔS2-CM1 protected against infection with different strains of GETV, Semliki Forest virus, Ross River virus, o’nyong’nyong virus, chikungunya virus, and Barmah Forest virus. Chimaeras based on the GETV-3ΔS2-CM1 backbone maintained both the attenuated phenotype and high immunogenicity. The safety, efficacy, and ability to induce protection against multiple alphaviruses highlights the potential of GETV-3ΔS2-CM1 and chimaeras using this backbone as promising vaccine candidates. By contributing simultaneously to the wellbeing of animals and humans, our universal next generation vaccine strategy helps to achieve "One Health" goals.
Determinants of adoption of automation and robotics technology in the agriculture sector–A mixed methods, narrative, interpretive knowledge synthesis
Authors: Lemay Margaret A. , Boggs Jeff
Published: November 2024

Automation and robotics technologies in agriculture promise to increase productivity with a smaller environmental footprint. However, adoption of agri-innovations is rarely a simple decision. The decision to adopt is determined by numerous factors. Employing a mixed methods narrative, interpretive knowledge synthesis, we review 72 unique studies between 2017–2021, and conduct a thematic analysis. Noting the innate complexity of agriculture, we identify 13 determinants of adoption of automation and robotic technologies in agriculture: data; farm characteristics and surrounding physical environment; farmer characteristics; policy and regulation; labour’s absorptive capacity; social elements; interoperability; standards; access to information; operational benefits; public infrastructure; technological characteristics; and uncertainty and risk. We conclude with seven observations. First, while automation and robotics are promising agri-innovations, they will not be appropriate or beneficial for all farms. There are other forms of agricultural innovation, and their uptake likely will always vary even within the same commodity and region. Second, taking a reductive approach to understanding adoption of agri-innovations may hinder the transformation to sustainable agriculture production systems; it is important to understand the role of complexity in shaping the dynamic interplay among determinants. Third, public infrastructure is more than just the Internet, yet there was little reference to other forms of public infrastructure in the dataset. Fourth, while many papers argue public policy is important for increasing the adoption of these innovations, few provide concrete policy suggestions or scalable examples. Fifth, trust and transparency are central to adoption. Technology developers need to take farmers concerns and needs seriously. Sixth, technology developers must offer practical solutions to real problems. Seventh, automation and robotics encompasses many technologies, and yet no standard or consistent terminology exists. This makes communication about these innovations more difficult. We propose a typology under the rubric of data-driven agricultural technologies.
Russia’s Special Military Operation in Ukraine: An Analysis of Provocative Statements by Key Western Actors
Authors: Olukosi Ibitoye Babatunde
Published: November 2024

The Russian special military operation in Ukraine is a continuation of politics by other means. There are several factors that triggered it, but the primary being NATO’s agenda to expand to Russia’s border, using Ukraine’s indication to become its member as a pretext. Ukraine is a sovereign country and has the right to move westward, but at the same time, Russia’s security concerns cannot be ignored. Ukraine’s membership in NATO is an invitation for the latter to come too close to Russia. If the United States, Britain or France will not allow anyone to encroach into their spheres of influence, why should Russia sit back and not resist the advances of NATO? America does not share a land border with the Solomon Islands, but threw a tantrum when the latter signed a military deal with China in 2022. NATO is a Cold War relic – the Cold War has ended, why is it moving eastward? What if Ukraine as a sovereign country maintains neutrality and retains its dual relations with the East and West? Rather than reverting to a Cold War mentality, the western actors should prioritize peace and refrain further from making provocative statements that can cause a nuclear war. The special military operation could have been prevented or ended a few months after it started if some action-backed utterances were not made by key western actors. In the wake of Donald Trump’s indication to end the conflict if elected president, this paper seeks to analyse how the provocative statements of key Western leaders triggered Russia’s response, aborted negotiation and recommended that they stop making inflammatory remarks to not truncate the plan of the president-elect.
Da crítica kantiana à prova ontológica cartesiana
Authors: Reis Gabriel Ribeiro
Published: November 2024

Resumo: O presente artigo pretende demonstrar a oposição do argumento kantiano frente ao argumento cartesiano acerca da existência de Deus. Para isso, vamos passar pela doutrina cartesiana com o intuito de demonstrarmos seu raciocínio, o qual, em síntese, é o seguinte: Deus é um ente perfeito; a existência é uma perfeição; logo, Deus existe. O contra-argumento proposto por Kant consiste em afirmar que o argumento cartesiano cria uma necessidade lógica da existência de Deus. Contudo, tal argumento, segundo Kant, não merece prosperar, posto que realiza uma confusão entre predicados lógicos e predicados reais.
Palavras-chave: Existência de Deus; Descartes; Kant; Predicados Lógicos; Predicados Reais.
From the kantian’s criticismo to cartesian’s ontological prove
Abstract: The present article intends to demonstrate the opposition of the Kantian argument against the Cartesian argument about the existence of God. For this, let's go through the Cartesian doctrine with the intention of demonstrating its reasoning, which, in synthesis, is the following: God is a perfect entity; existence is perfection; therefore, God exists. The counter-argument proposed by Kant consists in affirming that the Cartesian argument creates a logical necessity of the existence of God. However, such an argument, according to Kant, does not deserve to prosper, since it makes a confusion between logical predicates and real predicates.
Keywords: Existence of God; Descartes; Kant; Logical Predicates; Real Predicates.
Data de registro: 20/02/2017
Data de aceite: 18/05/2017
Tristes de Ovídio: gênero, amor e lamento na poética do exílio
Authors: Scodeler dos Santos Laís
Published: November 2024

Resumo: Em 8 d.C., Ovídio (43 a.C. - 17 ou 18 d.C.) foi condenado por Augusto ao exílio e, por isso, ele compõe elegias que são, segundo o poeta, similares à sua situação. Levando em conta a existência marcante da matéria erótica em Ovídio, este artigo pretende analisar a presença da temática amorosa nas elegias do exílio por meio de alusões à Arte de Amar, especialmente em Tr. II, que também podem ser encontradas em outras elegias que compõem os cinco livros dos Tristes.
Palavras-chave: Ovídio; Tristes; Exílio; A Arte de Amar; Autobiografia; Lamento.
Ovid’s Sorrows: gender, love and lament in the poetics of exile
Abstract: In 8 AD Ovid was sentenced by Augustus to exile and therefore he composes elegies that are, according to the poet, similar to his situation. Considering the preeminent existence of the erotic poetic matter in Ovid, this study intends to analyze the presence of the amatory elegy in the exile’s elegy through the allusions to The Art of Love, especially on Tr. II which can also be found in the other elegies which compose the five books of Sorrows.
Keywords: Ovid; Sorrows; Elegy; The Art of Love; Autobiography; Lament.
Data de registro: 24/04/2017
Data de aceite: 11/05/2017