bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
26.5625 Gbaud PAM-4 short-reach transmission at 75°C using 850 nm VCSELs with strategic oxide guiding layer positioning
Authors: Yang Yun-Cheng , Chen Wei-Hsin , Chiu Chih-Chuan , Wu Chao-Hsin
Published: March 2024

This article presents an all-epitaxy approach to reduce the root mean square spectral width (Δλ
R M S
) of 850 nm oxide-confined vertical cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs) with a large aperture of 7 µm through strategic optimization of the oxide guiding layer within the epitaxy structure. At 75°C, the VCSEL demonstrates a Δλ
R M S
of ∼0.3 nm at a bias current of 7.5 mA. Furthermore, the VCSEL achieves successful transmission of 26.5625 Gbaud PAM-4 modulation over a short-reach (SR) OM4 fiber link while maintaining a TDECQ budget below the 4.5 dB specified by 50G IEEE Ethernet standards.
Fast-switching reconfigurable metadevice with metasurface-induced liquid crystal alignment for light modulator applications
Authors: Chang Xin , Pivnenko Mike , Singh Angadjit , Wu Weijie , Shrestha Pawan , Chu Daping
Published: March 2024

Metasurface technology is progressing rapidly towards commercialization and productization, due to its unparallelled advantages over conventional optical solutions. The reconfigurable metasurface, exhibiting more flexibility and capacity than its static counterpart, has been one of the most pursued features of metasurface. In this work, we present liquid crystal-based dynamic metasurface by immersing metasurface in nematic liquid crystal environment. No alignment material was used, and liquid crystal was aligned directly by metasurface. The alignment quality was characterized and the intensity contrast of 33 was obtained. Optical amplitude modulation was achieved with the modulation depth of 91% at the wavelength of 1375 nm. Moreover, sub-micrometre cell gap of 875 nm was realized, and the response time was measured to be sub-millisecond at room temperature, translating to > 1KHz operation frequency. The higher operation frequency of > 3.4 KHz was recorded at elevated temperature. The key performance indicators demonstrated in this work showcase the promising future of liquid crystal – based reconfigurable metasurface, especially for fast light modulator applications.//Metasurface technology is progressing rapidly toward commercialization and productization due to its unparalleled advantages over conventional optical solutions. The reconfigurable metasurface, exhibiting more flexibility and capacity than its static counterpart, has been one of the most pursued features of the metasurface. In this work, we present a liquid crystal-based dynamic metasurface by immersing the metasurface in a nematic liquid crystal environment. No alignment material was used, and liquid crystal was aligned directly by metasurface. The alignment quality was characterized, and the intensity contrast of 33 was obtained. Optical amplitude modulation was achieved with a modulation depth of 91% at the wavelength of 1375 nm. Moreover, a sub-micrometer cell gap of 875 nm was realized, and the response time was measured to be sub-millisecond at room temperature, translating to > 1KHz operation frequency. The higher operation frequency of > 3.4 KHz was recorded at elevated temperatures. The key performance indicators demonstrated in this work showcase the promising future of liquid crystal-based reconfigurable metasurface, especially for fast light modulator applications.
The scale of zebrafish pectoral fin buds is determined by intercellular K+ levels and consequent Ca2+-mediated signaling via retinoic acid regulation of Rcan2 and Kcnk5b
Authors: Jiang Xiaowen , Zhao Kun , Sun Yi , Song Xinyue , Yi Chao , Xiong Tianlong , Wang Sen , Yu Yi , Chen Xiduo , Liu Run , Yan Xin , Antos Christopher L.
Published: March 2024

K+ channels regulate morphogens to scale adult fins, but little is known about what regulates the channels and how they control morphogen expression. Using the zebrafish pectoral fin bud as a model for early vertebrate fin/limb development, we found that K+ channels also scale this anatomical structure, and we determined how one K+-leak channel, Kcnk5b, integrates into its developmental program. From FLIM measurements of a Förster Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET)-based K+ sensor, we observed coordinated decreases in intracellular K+ levels during bud growth, and overexpression of K+-leak channels in vivo coordinately increased bud proportions. Retinoic acid, which can enhance fin/limb bud growth, decreased K+ in bud tissues and up-regulated regulator of calcineurin (rcan2). rcan2 overexpression increased bud growth and decreased K+, while CRISPR-Cas9 targeting of rcan2 decreased growth and increased K+. We observed similar results in the adult caudal fins. Moreover, CRISPR targeting of Kcnk5b revealed that Rcan2-mediated growth was dependent on the Kcnk5b. We also found that Kcnk5b enhanced depolarization in fin bud cells via Na+ channels and that this enhanced depolarization was required for Kcnk5b-enhanced growth. Lastly, Kcnk5b-induced shha transcription and bud growth required IP3R-mediated Ca2+ release and CaMKK activity. Thus, we provide a mechanism for how retinoic acid via rcan2 can regulate K+-channel activity to scale a vertebrate appendage via intercellular Ca2+ signaling.
Research on financing countermeasures of online game SMEs based on the identification of intangible assets information
Authors: Tu Gaige , Chen Hao , Zhu Chunxiao
Published: March 2024

As an important part of the cultural industry, small and medium-sized online game enterprises undertake the functions of technological innovation, employment absorption and cultural cultivation. However, the lack of credit ability restricts the financial development of such enterprises. To solve the financing problem of online small and medium-sized game enterprises, this paper firstly uses the information of intangible assets to identify their credit ability, and considers that the information of intangible assets is a problem worthy of attention in evaluating credit risk. Secondly, the intangible assets information disclosure index, the revenue sharing contract of credit synergy and the dynamic game mechanism are constructed to study the importance of the intangible assets index and the evolution of the dynamic game. Finally, the empirical study shows that the intangible assets of delisting and special treated online game small and medium-sized enterprises still have value, this type of enterprise and credit suppliers have the behavior of seeking advantages and avoiding disadvantages. Therefore, credit synergy should be constructed and government regulation should be implemented.
Designing, development and validation of an app to reduce the response time of the emergency medical services
Authors: Gabella Júlia Loverde , Gualda Iago Amado Peres , Altoé Isadora Laguila , Beltrame Matheus Henrique Arruda , da Silva Pedro Henrique Aguillar , Costa Dalton Breno , Paggi Fernando César Grossi , Filho Sérgio Sanches Fabres , Massago Miyoko , de Paulo Luiz Gustavo , Bitencourt Marcos Rogério , Joiner Anjni Patel , Vissoci João Ricardo Nickenig , de Andrade Luciano
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Delays in prehospital care attributable to the call-taking process can often be traced back to miscommunication, including uncertainty around the call location. Geolocation applications have the potential to streamline the call-taking process by accurately identifying the caller’s location.

Objective

To develop and validate an application to geolocate emergency calls and compare the response time of calls made via the application with those of conventional calls made to the Brazilian Medical Emergency System (Serviço de Atendimento Médico de Urgência—SAMU).

Methods

This study was conducted in two stages. First, a geolocating application for SAMU emergency calls (CHAMU192) was developed using a mixed methods approach based on design thinking and subsequently validated using the System Usability Scale (SUS). In the second stage, sending time of the geolocation information of the app was compared with the time taken to process information through conventional calls. For this, a hypothetical case control study was conducted with SAMU in the Maringá, Paraná, Brazil. A control group of 350 audio recordings of emergency calls from 2019 was compared to a set of test calls made through the CHAMU192 app. The CHAMU192 group consisted of 201 test calls in Maringá. In test calls, the location was obtained by GPS and sent to the SAMU communication system. Comparative analysis between groups was performed using the Mann-Whitney test.

Results

CHAMU192 had a SUS score of 90, corresponding to a “best imaginable” usability rating. The control group had a median response time of 35.67 seconds (26.00–48.12). The response time of the CHAMU192 group was 0.20 (0.15–0.24).

Conclusion

The use of the CHAMU192 app by emergency medical services could significantly reduce response time. The results demonstrate the potential of app improving the quality and patient outcomes related to the prehospital emergency care services.
Retinoic acid attenuates ischemic injury-induced activation of glial cells and inflammatory factors in a rat stroke model
Authors: Kang Ju-Bin , Son Hyun-Kyoung , Shah Murad-Ali , Koh Phil-Ok
Published: March 2024

Stroke is a leading cause of death and long-term disability which can cause oxidative damage and inflammation of the neuronal cells. Retinoic acid is an active metabolite of vitamin A that has various beneficial effects including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. In this study, we investigated whether retinoic acid modulates oxidative stress and inflammatory factors in a stroke animal model. A middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) was performed on adult male rats to induce focal cerebral ischemia. Retinoic acid (5 mg/kg) or vehicle was injected into the peritoneal cavity for four days before MCAO surgery. The neurobehavioral tests were carried out 24 h after MCAO and cerebral cortex tissues were collected. The cortical damage was assessed by hematoxylin-eosin staining and reactive oxygen species assay. In addition, Western blot and immunohistochemical staining were performed to investigate the activation of glial cells and inflammatory cytokines in MCAO animals. Ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule-1 (Iba-1) and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) were used as markers of microglial and astrocyte activation, respectively. Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) were used as representative pro-inflammatory cytokines. Results showed that MCAO damage caused neurobehavioral defects and histopathological changes in the ischemic region and increased oxidative stress. Retinoic acid treatment reduced these changes caused by MCAO damage. We detected increases in Iba-1 and GFAP in MCAO animals treated with vehicle. However, retinoic acid alleviated increases in Iba-1 and GFAP caused by MCAO damage. Moreover, MCAO increased levels of nuclear factor-κB and pro-inflammatory cytokines, including TNF-α and IL-1β. Retinoic acid alleviated the expression of these inflammatory proteins. These findings elucidate that retinoic acid regulates microglia and astrocyte activation and modulates pro-inflammatory cytokines. Therefore, this study suggests that retinoic acid exhibits strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties by reducing oxidative stress, inhibiting neuroglia cell activation, and preventing the increase of pro-inflammatory cytokines in a cerebral ischemia.
Mating dynamics of a sperm-limited drosophilid, Zaprionus indianus
Authors: Gleason Jennifer M. , Danborno Barnabas , Nigro Marena , Escobar Henry , Cobbs Micalea J.
Published: March 2024

When males have large sperm, they may become sperm limited and mating dynamics may be affected. One such species is Zaprionus indianus, a drosophilid that is an introduced pest species in the Americas. We examined aspects of mating behavior in Z. indianus to determine the senses necessary for mating and measure female and male remating habits. We found that vision is necessary for successful copulation, but wings, which produce courtship song, are not needed. Males need their foretarsi to successfully copulate and although the foretarsi may be needed for chemoreception, their role in hanging on to the female during copulation may be more important for successful mating. Females that mate once run out of sperm in approximately five days, although mating a second time greatly increases offspring production. Females do not seem to exert pre-mating choice among males with respect to mating with a familiar versus a novel male. Males are not capable of mating continuously and fail to produce offspring in many copulations. Overall, females of this species benefit from polyandry, providing an opportunity to study sexual selection in females. In addition, the dynamics of male competition for fertilizing eggs needs to be studied.
Inflammatory response in dairy cows caused by heat stress and biological mechanisms for maintaining homeostasis
Authors: Kim Hana , Jo Jang-Hoon , Lee Hong-Gu , Park Woncheoul , Lee Hak-Kyo , Park Jong-Eun , Shin Donghyun
Published: March 2024

Climate change increases global temperatures, which is lethal to both livestock and humans. Heat stress is known as one of the various livestock stresses, and dairy cows react sensitively to high-temperature stress. We aimed to better understand the effects of heat stress on the health of dairy cows and observing biological changes. Individual cows were divided into normal (21–22 °C, 50–60% humidity) and high temperature (31–32 °C, 80–95% humidity), respectively, for 7-days. We performed metabolomic and transcriptome analyses of the blood and gut microbiomes of feces. In the high-temperature group, nine metabolites including linoleic acid and fructose were downregulated, and 154 upregulated and 72 downregulated DEGs (Differentially Expressed Genes) were identified, and eighteen microbes including Intestinimonas and Pseudoflavonifractor in genus level were significantly different from normal group. Linoleic acid and fructose have confirmed that associated with various stresses, and functional analysis of DEG and microorganisms showing significant differences confirmed that high-temperature stress is related to the inflammatory response, immune system, cellular energy mechanism, and microbial butyrate production. These biological changes were likely to withstand high-temperature stress. Immune and inflammatory responses are known to be induced by heat stress, which has been identified to maintain homeostasis through modulation at metabolome, transcriptome and microbiome levels. In these findings, heat stress condition can trigger alteration of immune system and cellular energy metabolism, which is shown as reduced metabolites, pathway enrichment and differential microbes. As results of this study did not include direct phenotypic data, we believe that additional validation is required in the future. In conclusion, high-temperature stress contributed to the reduction of metabolites, changes in gene expression patterns and composition of gut microbiota, which are thought to support dairy cows in withstanding high-temperature stress via modulating immune-related genes, and cellular energy metabolism to maintain homeostasis.
It’s not you (well, it is a bit you), it’s me: Self- versus social image in warm-glow giving
Authors: Grossman Philip J. , Levy Jonathan
Published: March 2024

Attempts by charities to motivate giving tend to focus on potential donors’ altruistic tendencies. However, prior research suggests that approximately 50% of individuals are to some extent motivated by warm glow, the satisfaction received from the act of giving. The satisfaction derives from looking good to themselves (self-image) and/or to others (social image). We conduct an online experiment on MTurk participants (n = 960) with a more realistic simulation of being watched to determine the importance of self- and social image to warm-glow giving. We find evidence that suggests that social image concerns do not increase the likelihood that someone will give but they do increase the amount given; average giving is significantly higher in the treatments when feelings of being watched are stimulated. Our results suggest that charities looking to increase their donor bases might effectively do so by focusing on self-image concerns. Charities wishing to increase the amount donated might effectively do so by focusing on the social image concerns of the donor.
Effect of community-based newborn care implementation strategies on access to and effective coverage of possible serious bacterial infection (PSBI) treatment for sick young infants during COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Tiruneh Gizachew Tadele , Fesseha Nebreed , Emaway Dessalew , Betemariam Wuleta , Nigatu Tsinuel Girma , Magge Hema , Hirschhorn Lisa Ruth
Published: March 2024

Background

In Ethiopia, neonatal mortality is persistently high. The country has been implementing community-based treatment of possible serious bacterial infection (PSBI) in young infants when referral to a hospital is not feasible since 2012. However, access to and quality of PSBI services remained low and were worsened by COVID-19. From November 2020 to June 2022, we conducted implementation research to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 and improve PSBI management implementation uptake and delivery in two woredas in Ethiopia.

Methods

In April-May 2021, guided by implementation research frameworks, we conducted formative research to understand the PSBI management implementation challenges, including those due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Through a participatory process engaging stakeholders, we designed adaptive implementation strategies to bridge identified gaps using mechanism mapping to achieve implementation outcomes. Strategies included training and coaching, supportive supervision and mentorship, technical support units, improved supply of essential commodities, and community awareness creation about PSBI and COVID-19. We conducted cross-sectional household surveys in the two woredas before (April 2021) and after the implementation of strategies (June 2022) to measure changes in targeted outcomes.

Results

We interviewed 4,262 and 4,082 women who gave live birth 2–14 months before data collection and identified 374 and 264 PSBI cases in April 2021 and June 2022, respectively. The prevalence of PSBI significantly decreased (p-value = 0.018) from 8.7% in April 2021 to 6.4% while the mothers’ care-seeking behavior from medical care for their sick newborns increased significantly from 56% to 91% (p-value <0.01). Effective coverage of severely ill young infants that took appropriate antibiotics significantly improved from 33% [95% CI: 25.5–40.7] to 62% [95% CI: 51.0–71.6]. Despite improvements in the uptake of PSBI treatment, persisting challenges at the facility and systems levels impeded optimal PSBI service delivery and uptake, including perceived low quality of service, lack of community trust, and shortage of supplies.

Conclusion

The participatory design and implementation of adaptive COVID-19 strategies effectively improved the uptake and delivery of PSBI treatment. Support systems were critical for frontline health workers to deliver PSBI services and create a resilient community health system to provide quality PSBI care during the pandemic. Additional strategies are needed to address persistent gaps, including improvement in client-provider interactions, supply of essential drugs, and increased social mobilization strategies targeting families and communities to further increase uptake.
The influence of environmental diplomacy, economic determinants and renewable energy consumption on environmental degradation: Empirical evidence of G20 countries
Authors: Rizwanullah Muhammad , Shi Jian , Nasrullah Muhammad , Zhou Xue
Published: March 2024

This study examines how various environmental and economic variables contribute to environmental degradation. Industrialization, trade openness, and foreign direct investment are among the variables, as are environmental diplomacy, environmental diplomacy secure, and renewable energy consumption. Therefore, the data covers the years 1991–2020, and our sample includes all 19 countries and two groups (the European Union and the African Union). The research used the Pesaran CD test to determine cross-section dependency, CIPS and CADF test to determine stationarity, the Wald test for hetrodcedasasticity and the Wooldridge test for autocorrelation; therefore, VIF for multicollinearity, Durbin and Hausman to analyze the endogeneity. It also employed Westerlund’s cointegration test to ensure cross-sectional dependence, Wald test for group-wise heteroscedasticity, Wooldridge test for autocorrelation, VIF for multicollinearity, and Durbin and Hausman for endogeneity. The two-step system generalized method of moments (GMM) is used to estimate the results and confirm the relationship between independent variables (Industrialization, trade openness, FDI, environmental diplomacy, secure environmental diplomacy, and renewable energy) and dependent variables (Environmental Degradation) in G20 countries. Therefore, Industrialization, trade openness, foreign direct investment, ecological diplomacy, and renewable energy consumption significantly impact ecological degradation. Environmental diplomacy is crucial to combat degradation and stimulate global collaboration. G20 nations enact strict environmental restrictions to tackle climate change and encourage economic growth.
Codeine and promethazine: Exploratory study on “lean” or “sizzurp” using national survey data and an online forum
Authors: Ware Orrin D. , Garcia-Romeu Albert , Zamarripa C. Austin , Hughes Tamera , Wager Leeza , Spindle Tory
Published: March 2024

Background

The concoction known as "lean" containing codeine and promethazine, holds a prominent cultural presence and is often referenced in mass media platforms (e.g., music and social media). Surprisingly, there’s a scarcity of national data characterizing the use of lean. Therefore, the current study investigated the use of lean using national survey data and online forum participant input, and focused on identifying concurrent substance use, exploring co-administration with other substances (e.g., alcohol, cannabis), and determining lean-related experiences.

Methods

We analyzed data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) spanning 2007–2019, identifying persons who used lean (weighted N = 42,275). Additionally, we conducted a Reddit-based study to gather insights about lean consumtion (N = 192).

Results

The NSDUH data indicated that lean use was most prevalent among teenagers and young adults (ages 13–21), accounting for 66% of the sample. This trend was more pronounced in male respondents (75%) compared to females. Additionally, the use was predominantly observed among Black/African American (29%), Hispanic (28%), and White (33%) populations, with these groups also reporting higher levels of concurrent alcohol and cannabis use. Similarly, findings from Reddit showed that individuals who used lean were predominantly male (67%) and exhibited elevated concurrent rates of alcohol (83%) and cannabis (46%) use in the past 30 days. Moreover, approximately 66% of respondents met criteria for severe lean use disorder, and 37% acknowledged driving under its influence.

Conclusion

The NSDUH data found that mostly young adult males reported consuming lean in the past twelve months, though the racial/ethnic breakdown of persons who used lean was diverse. The Reddit data found that most individuals in the sample met the criteria for a substance use disorder pertaining to their lean consumption. These findings underscore the clinical significance and necessity for further controlled research on lean.
Socioeconomic inequality and urban-rural disparity of antenatal care visits in Bangladesh: A trend and decomposition analysis
Authors: Biswas Biplab , Kumar Nishith , Rahaman Md. Matiur , Das Sukanta , Hoque Md. Aminul
Published: March 2024

Background

Socioeconomic inequality in antenatal care visits is a great concern in developing countries including Bangladesh; however, there is a scarcity of investigation to assess the factors of inequality and these changes over time. In this study, we investigated the trend of socioeconomic inequalities (2004–2017) in 1+ANC and 4+ANC visits, and extracted determinants contributions to the observed inequalities and urban-rural disparities in Bangladesh over the period from 2011 to 2017.

Methods

The data from the Bangladesh Demographic and Health Surveys (BDHS) conducted in 2004, 2007, 2011 and 2017 were analyzed in this study. The analysis began with exploratory and bivariate analysis, followed by the application of logistic regression models. To measure the inequalities, the Erreygers concentration index was used, and regression-based decomposition analyses were utilized to unravel the determinant’s contribution to the observed inequalities. The Blinder-Oaxaca type decomposition is also used to decompose the urban-rural disparity into the factors.

Results

Our analysis results showed that the prevalence of 1+ANC and 4+ANC visits has increased across all the determinants, although the rate of 4+ANC visits remains notably low. The magnitudes of socioeconomic inequality in 4+ANC visits represented an irregular pattern at both the national and urban levels, whereas it increased gradually in rural Bangladesh. However, inequalities in 1+ANC visits declined substantially after 2011 across the national, rural and urban areas of Bangladesh. Decomposition analyses have suggested that wealth status, women’s education, place of residence (only for 4+ANC visits), caesarean delivery, husband education, and watching television (TV) are the main determinants to attribute and changes in the level of inequality and urban-rural disparity between the years 2011 and 2017.

Conclusions

According to the findings of our study, it is imperative for authorities to ensure antenatal care visits are more accessible for rural and underprivileged women. Additionally, should focus on delivering high-quality education, ensuring the completion of education, reducing income disparity as well as launching a program to enhance awareness about health facilities, and the impact of caesarean delivery.
Manipulating multi-level selection in a fungal entomopathogen reveals social conflicts and a method for improving biocontrol traits
Authors: Erdos Zoltan , Studholme David J. , Sharma Manmohan D. , Chandler David , Bass Chris , Raymond Ben
Published: March 2024

Changes in parasite virulence are commonly expected to lead to trade-offs in other life history traits that can affect fitness. Understanding these trade-offs is particularly important if we want to manipulate the virulence of microbial biological control agents. Theoretically, selection across different spatial scales, i.e. between- and within-hosts, shapes these trade-offs. However, trade-offs are also dependent on parasite biology. Despite their applied importance the evolution of virulence in fungal parasites is poorly understood: virulence can be unstable in culture and commonly fails to increase in simple passage experiments. We hypothesized that manipulating selection intensity at different scales would reveal virulence trade-offs in a fungal pathogen of aphids, Akanthomyces muscarius. Starting with a genetically diverse stock we selected for speed of kill, parasite yield or infectivity by manipulating competition within and between hosts and between-populations of hosts over 7 rounds of infection. We characterized ancestral and evolved lineages by whole genome sequencing and by measuring virulence, growth rate, sporulation and fitness. While several lineages showed increases in virulence, we saw none of the trade-offs commonly found in obligately-killing parasites. Phenotypically similar lineages within treatments often shared multiple single-nucleotide variants, indicating strong convergent evolution. The most dramatic phenotypic changes were in timing of sporulation and spore production in vitro. We found that early sporulation led to reduced competitive fitness but could increase yield of spores on media, a trade-off characteristic of social conflict. Notably, the selection regime with strongest between-population competition and lowest genetic diversity produced the most consistent shift to early sporulation, as predicted by social evolution theory. Multi-level selection therefore revealed social interactions novel to fungi and showed that these biocontrol agents have the genomic flexibility to improve multiple traits—virulence and spore production—that are often in conflict in other parasites.
Deubiquitinating activity of SARS-CoV-2 papain-like protease does not influence virus replication or innate immune responses in vivo
Authors: van Huizen Mariska , Bloeme - ter Horst Jonna R. , de Gruyter Heidi L. M. , Geurink Paul P. , van der Heden van Noort Gerbrand J. , Knaap Robert C. M. , Nelemans Tessa , Ogando Natacha S. , Leijs Anouk A. , Urakova Nadya , Mark Brian L. , Snijder Eric J. , Myeni Sebenzile K. , Kikkert Marjolein
Published: March 2024

The coronavirus papain-like protease (PLpro) is crucial for viral replicase polyprotein processing. Additionally, PLpro can subvert host defense mechanisms by its deubiquitinating (DUB) and deISGylating activities. To elucidate the role of these activities during SARS-CoV-2 infection, we introduced mutations that disrupt binding of PLpro to ubiquitin or ISG15. We identified several mutations that strongly reduced DUB activity of PLpro, without affecting viral polyprotein processing. In contrast, mutations that abrogated deISGylating activity also hampered viral polyprotein processing and when introduced into the virus these mutants were not viable. SARS-CoV-2 mutants exhibiting reduced DUB activity elicited a stronger interferon response in human lung cells. In a mouse model of severe disease, disruption of PLpro DUB activity did not affect lethality, virus replication, or innate immune responses in the lungs. This suggests that the DUB activity of SARS-CoV-2 PLpro is dispensable for virus replication and does not affect innate immune responsesin vivo. Interestingly, the DUB mutant of SARS-CoV replicated to slightly lower titers in mice and elicited a diminished immune response early in infection, although lethality was unaffected. We previously showed that a MERS-CoV mutant deficient in DUB and deISGylating activity was strongly attenuated in mice. Here, we demonstrate that the role of PLpro DUB activity during infection can vary considerably between highly pathogenic coronaviruses. Therefore, careful considerations should be taken when developing pan-coronavirus antiviral strategies targeting PLpro.
The reality of the not-true in Plato's Sophist
Authors: Cordero Néstor Luis
Published: March 2024

The definition of the sophist as "image-maker" allows Plato to add to the novelties he presents in the Sophist two topics he hadn't deepened in his previous dialogues: (a) a "definition" of being (247e) and (b) the influence this position will have on the relationship between image and truth. From a first definition of the image proposed by Theaetetus in 240a we deduce that, even if it is not true, it is "really" (ὄντως) an image, which does not coincide with the devalued or secondary reality that Plato had always attributed to this notion, from which all truth was absent.  This conclusion, indeed, astonishes Theaetetus, attached to the Platonic "orthodoxy". This astonishment is not present in the orthodox version of the text of the passage 240a-c of the Sophist, which inherits from a modification of the widespread text from 1851. Once the original version is restored, the definition of the fact of being proposed in 247e justifies the "really real" character of the image, which respects the condition required to everything that "possesses" being: the possibility of acting or being affected. Indeed, the image is "affected" by the model, that it tries to imitate, because the model "affects" it. The image, even if it is not true, is real.
Embryon y kyema en los escritos biológicos de Aristóteles
Authors: Iversen Francisco
Published: March 2024

Aunque hay quien entiende que los debates en torno a la moralidad de la interrupción del embarazo son actuales, al analizar algunos pasajes de las fuentes clásicas, se pone de manifiesto la antigüedad de tales discusiones. Asimismo, como las conclusiones jurídicas, políticas y morales en tales respectos muchas veces viene fundamentada por una posición metafísica, antropológica, teológica o biológica, es menester entrar en esos campos para poder explorar cabalmente las distintas aristas del tan complicado tema. De este modo, este trabajo pretende mostrar los escollos terminológicos que los vocablos émbryon y kýema generan a la comprensión de la embriología aristotélica, que es base para entender su posición sobre el aborto, así como los debates escolásticos que utilizan esto como fuente. Aspiramos a analizar las diversas apariciones de ambos términos en variadas obras de Aristóteles – fundamentalmente De generatione animalium y De partibus animalium – y mostrar como no hay criterio para distinguirlos en la mayoría de los contextos.
“My dear Phaedrus, where is it you're going, and where have you come from”: An Interpretation of the Opening Line of the Phaedrus
Authors: Mauricio Garcia Dotto Pedro
Published: March 2024

Abstract: I argue that the opening line of the Phaedrus proleptically encapsulates the major themes of the dialogue and that paying attention to the opening line enables us to strengthen the identification of psychagogy as the key unifying thread of the whole dialogue. In particular, I argue that the opening line foreshadows the quarrel between Lysias and Socrates over the practical guidance of Phaedrus’ soul; the prominence of friendship in the philosophical life; the pertinence of Socrates’ one-on-one engagement, vis-à-vis the later conceptualization of rhetoric; the definition of the soul as a source of never-ending movement; as well as the origin (ἀρχή) and destiny (τέλος) of human souls following the lines of the Palinode.
Praecepta, decreta e a felicidade em Schopenhauer e Sêneca: um breve estudo comparativo
Authors: Bernardes Barbosa Borges George Felipe
Published: March 2024

Há na bibliografia de Schopenhauer uma parte importante dedicada as discussões de boa vida. Entre os anos de 1826 e 1829 o filósofo alemão se pôs a pensar em uma eudemonologia, um projeto inacabado, que contava com o resgate do pensamento de filósofos antigos. Nas discussões há um apreço, sobretudo, pelo pensamento estoico a fim de produzir uma vida menos infeliz possível. Por isso parece relevante revisitar as ideias de Schopenhauer e compará-las com Sêneca, que se debruçou sobre os mesmos tópicos: as apropriações dos conceitos de praecepta e decreta e sua relação com a felicidade.
Seroprevalence of melioidosis and its association with blood profiles and pathogens in sheltered dogs in southern Thailand
Authors: Fungwithaya Punpichaya , Boonhoh Worakan , Sontigun Narin , Hayakijkosol Orachun , Klangbud Wiyada Kwanhian , Wongtawan Tuempong
Published: March 2024

Background and Aim: Melioidosis is a notable zoonotic disease in Thailand that can affect both humans and animals. Although dogs are one of the most popular pets worldwide, there is a remarkable lack of information on the prevalence and knowledge of canine melioidosis. This study aimed to estimate the seroprevalence of melioidosis in sheltered dogs and its relationship with the blood profile and blood pathogens.

Materials and Methods: Melioidosis in 156 dogs was analyzed using an indirect hemagglutination assay. Hematology and serum biochemistry tests were performed using an automated system. Blood pathogens (e.g., Ehrlichia, Anaplasma, Hepatozoon, and Babesia) were diagnosed using conventional polymerase chain reaction.

Results: The seroprevalence rates of canine melioidosis and blood pathogen infection were 5.77% (9/156) and 50.64% (79/156), respectively. Seropositive dogs generally have higher lymphocyte counts and aspartate aminotransferase levels but lower total white blood cell, neutrophil, and platelet (PLT) counts than seronegative dogs. No statistically significant difference (p > 0.05) was observed between the seropositive and seronegative dogs' hematology and serum biochemistry findings. Neither the correlation between melioidosis and blood pathogen infection nor the association between melioidosis and thrombocytopenia was statistically significant (p > 0.05). Remarkably, dogs that had coinfections with both melioidosis and blood pathogens demonstrated a significantly reduced PLTcount (49,167 ± 7,167) compared with dogs that tested positive for melioidosis but negative for blood pathogens (139,333 ± 29,913) (p < 0.01).

Conclusion: In southern Thailand, the prevalence of canine melioidosis was low but the prevalence of blood pathogens was high. Coinfection with blood pathogens can significantly reduce PLT counts, which may have a potentially serious impact. Future research should focus on conducting seroprevalence studies in the general dog population.

Keywords: blood pathogens, dogs, hematology, melioidosis, prevalence, serum biochemistry.
Regulation and analysis of Simiao Yong'an Decoction fermentation by Bacillus subtilis on the diversity of intestinal microbiota in Sprague-Dawley rats
Authors: Yang Zhen , Chen Keyuan , Liu Yu , Wang Xuehong , Wang Shengyi , Hao Baocheng
Published: March 2024

Background and Aim: Simiao Yong'an decoction (SYD) is a classic traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) prescription that has the effects of clearing heat, detoxifying, promoting blood circulation, and relieving pain. In this study, we investigated the effect of SYD on the diversity of intestinal microbiota after fermentation by Bacillus subtilis.

Materials and Methods: SYD was fermented using B. subtilis. Female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into the following four groups with six rats in each group: Negative sample group (NS), water exaction non-fermentation group (WE), B. subtilis group (BS), and fermentation liquid group (FL). All rats were orally administered for 14 days. High-throughput Illumina sequencing was used to analyze 16S rRNA expression in rat fecal samples.

Results: A total of 2782 operational taxonomical units (OTUs) were identified in this study, and 634 OTUs were shared among all samples. Bacteroidetes (28.17%-53.20%) and Firmicutes (48.35%-67.83%) were the most abundant phyla identified among the four groups. The abundance of Escherichia and Alistipes was lower in the FL group than in the NS group, whereas the abundance of Bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus was increased in the FL group (p < 0.05). The abundance of Bifidobacterium was significantly upregulated in the FL group compared with the WE and BS groups (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: After fermentation, SYD had a significantly better effect than SYD or B. subtilis. SYD significantly promoted the growth of intestinal probiotics, inhibited the growth of pathogenic bacteria, and maintained the balance of intestinal microbiota in SD rats. This study provides new insights into the development and use of SYD.

Keywords: Bacillus subtilis, fermentation, intestinal microbiota, probiotics, Simiao Yong'an Decoction.
Synergistic modulation of proinflammatory mediators and cytokines in lipopolysaccharide-activated RAW 264.7 macrophages: The therapeutic potential of Elephantopus scaber and Sauropus androgynus ethanol extract
Authors: Djati Muhammad Sasmito , Christina Yuyun Ika , Dwijayanti Dinia Rizqi , Rahayu Sri
Published: March 2024

Background and Aim: Elephantopus scaber (ES) and Sauropus androgynus (SA) have broad biological effects and have long been used in traditional medicine. However, the anti-inflammatory properties of the combination of ES and SA have not yet been fully explored. This study aimed to investigate the anti-inflammatory activities of the combination of ES and SA ethanol extract on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated RAW 264.7 macrophage cell lines by inhibiting proinflammatory mediators and cytokines.

Materials and Methods: Nitric oxide (NO) production in RAW 264.7 cells was assessed using the Griess protocol. The effects of the combination of ES and SA ethanol extract on RAW 264.7 cell viability were determined using WST-1 (4-[3-(4-Iodophenyl)-2-(4-nitro-phenyl)-2H-5-tetrazolio]-1,3-benzene sulfonate) assay. The levels of proinflammatory cytokines, including interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and interleukin-1 beta (IL-Î²), as well as the production of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), were assessed using flow cytometry.

Results: This study demonstrated that ES and SA have excellent NO, iNOS, and proinflammatory inhibitory activities on LPS-induced RAW 264.7 macrophages. The formula ratio of 2ES:1SA showed the best NO inhibitory activity without any cytotoxicity, whereas the higher dose of SA (1ES:2SA) showed the best suppression of iNOS and proinflammatory cytokines IL-1Î², IFN-γ, and TNF-α.

Conclusion: The combination of ES and SA ethanol extract could be an alternative agent for reducing excessive inflammation in inflammatory diseases.

Keywords: Elephantopus scaber, inflammation, macrophage, nitric oxide, proinflammatory cytokines, Sauropus androgynous.
A sustainable journey towards smart urbanization: Green Stormwater infrastructures (An overview of a successful GSI project in the Villanova University)
Authors: Parvin Mithila
Published: March 2024

In the Anthropocene era of climate change, green infrastructures can help improve community resilience by minimizing the urban heat island effect. Green stormwater infrastructures (GSI) are a critical component of Philadelphia's sustainable smart urbanization plan. Integrating green stormwater infrastructure features into community improvements has the potential to considerably reduce the heat island effect, peak stormwater flow, and marginal cost of stormwater management by increasing recipient water quality. As an integral part of green city initiatives, diverse drainage infrastructures were built at Villanova University to allow for runoff and lessen the heat island effect in the newly constructed dormitories known as "The Commons." The goal of this study is to use field observations to examine the effective performance of all GSI located in "The Commons". Three individual temperature probe sensors were installed in the "The Commons" study location, which was an empty parking lot turned into a GSI-facilitated landscape. Three distinct years' summer temperatures were analyzed to determine the variation in temperatures caused by the presence of rain gardens. The redesigned environment, which includes rain gardens and grassland, has lower maximum and average temperatures. Finally, this study proved the reduction of urban stressors because of an ultra-urban area's transition to sustainable and climate resilience urbanization.
Olive Oil Drops and Their Effect on Earwax Accumulation
Authors: Levy Mary
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Ear wax is a normal secretion that is produced by specialised glands in the ear. In medical terms earwax is called cerumen, a combination of natural oily secretions from the ceruminous glands, dead skin cells and debris, and serves a very significant purpose. In the majority of cases, ear wax does not need to be removed. The waxy substance protects the ear canal against dust, pollen and water, and due to its acidity is bacteriostatic i.e. it discourages the multiplication of bacteria. It also lubricates the skin lining of the ear canal, preventing the skin from drying out.

The focus of the research is to investigate the application of olive oil and its impact on accumulation of wax to adults. In this research, the participants were invited to attend one of our selected clinics in London on a specific date. Their ears were examined thoroughly for any wax occlusion or other pathology and wax was removed and/or medical referral was made as necessary. They were briefed to use a type of olive oil of their preference in just one ear at a given interval, and attend approximately every two weeks for a period of 24 weeks for the researcher to visually estimate the percentage of wax occlusion in both ears. The study showed that in the majority of cases, olive oil drops do not reduce earwax build-up. The review was restricted to a small cohort of volunteers (N = 60) and therefore the result was potentially weak.

The principal finding of the study is that contrary to current recommendations, the regular application of olive oil hastens the accumulation of ear wax in individuals susceptible to ear wax occlusion.
The Effect of Islamic Finance on Economic Growth and Financial Stability: ASEAN-4 Case Study
Authors: Hanif Azianatud Dian , Hanafi Syafiq Mahmadah
Published: March 2024

This research aims to analyze the impact of Islamic finance (Islamic stock index and sharia banking assets) on economic growth and financial stability. The data utilized in this study are panel data from the ASEAN-4 countries during the period 2013-2022, employing panel data regression analysis with the Common Effect Model. The research findings indicate that simultaneously, the independent variables significantly affect economic growth and financial stability in the ASEAN-4 countries during the period 2013-2022. Partially, the Islamic stock index variable does not have a significant impact on economic growth but has a significant impact on financial stability. Meanwhile, the sharia banking assets variable significantly affects economic growth but does not significantly affect financial stability.
The Effects of Exports, Inflation, Provincial Minimum Wage, Household Consumption, and Democracy on PMDN in Java Island for the 2009-2022 Period
Authors: Vina Rahmawati  , Muhammad Ghafur Wibowo
Published: March 2024

Investment is an activity that can increase economic growth in a region. In times of crisis, economic activities that can help stabilize the economy are private investment or commonly called Domestic Investment (PMDN). The purpose of this study is to determine the impact of independent variables in the form of exports, inflation, provincial minimum wage, household consumption, and the Indonesian democracy index on the variables of Domestic Investment in 6 Provinces in Java for the 2009-2022 period. The data used in this study is secondary panel data. The analysis method used is the panel data regression analysis method with a weighted Fixed Effect  model approach with Cross Section SUR. The results of this study are export variables, provincial minimum wages, and the Indonesian democracy index have a significant and positive influence on PMDN. Then the inflation variable has a negative and insignificant influence on PMDN. Meanwhile, household consumption has a significant and negative influence on PMDN in 6 provinces in Java.
The Role of Digital Economy and International Trade on Ecnonomic Growth in Indonesia
Authors: M Zaenal Abid
Published: March 2024

In recent years, economic growth has shown fluctuating numbers, one of the consequences of which is Covid-19. The digital economy utilizes fintech technology such as p2p lending has a strategic role in economic growth activities moderated by export, import, and population variables. The data in this study uses Indonesian panel data from 2020 to 2022. The data analysis technique uses the Panel Data Regression method. Based on the results of the partial test of p2p lending has a negative and significant effect, exports have a positive but not significant effect, imports have a negative and insignificant effect and population has a positive and significant effect on economic growth. The results of the simultaneous test of all variables have a significant effect on economic growth.