bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measuring Investor Attention Using Google Search
Authors: deHaan Ed , Lawrence Alastair , Litjens Robin
Published: October 2024

Although investor attention is fundamental to the efficient functioning of capital markets, it is also an elusive construct that researchers struggle to measure. In recent years, the search volume index (SVI) of ticker searches on Google has become a ubiquitous measure of investor attention, but the amount and effects of measurement error in ticker SVI are unknown. We investigate measurement error in ticker SVI using a data set of 2.7 billion website visits following Standard and Poor’s 500 firms’ ticker searches. We find that 69% of searches are unrelated to investing, that this measurement error is highly correlated with firm characteristics, and that this measurement error can easily generate false-positive or false-negative results in common settings. We go on to show that a modified version of SVI using both a firm’s ticker and the word “stock” (e.g., searches for “CAT stock,” which we label “ticker-stock SVI”) not only better captures the search terms that investors typically use, but also has considerably less measurement error that is largely uncorrelated with observable firm characteristics. Ticker-stock SVI produces better specified tests, and although researchers must still carefully consider the effects of measurement error, we recommend that ticker-stock SVI is used in place of ticker SVI in most settings. We provide a data set of ticker-stock SVI to facilitate future work.

This paper was accepted by Suraj Srinivisan, accounting.

Supplemental Material: The online appendix and data files are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2022.02174 . TS-SVI for the Russell 3000 is available for download at: github.com/robinlitjens/GoogleTickerStock-SVI and will be updated annually.
A 0/1 Constrained Optimization Solving Sample Average Approximation for Chance Constrained Programming
Authors: Zhou Shenglong , Pan Lili , Xiu Naihua , Li Geoffrey Ye
Published: October 2024

Sample average approximation (SAA) is a tractable approach for dealing with chance constrained programming, a challenging stochastic optimization problem. The constraint of SAA is characterized by the 0/1 loss function, which results in considerable complexities in devising numerical algorithms. Most existing methods have been devised based on reformulations of SAA, such as binary integer programming or relaxed problems. However, the development of viable methods to directly tackle SAA remains elusive, let alone providing theoretical guarantees. In this paper, we investigate a general 0/1 constrained optimization, providing a new way to address SAA rather than its reformulations. Specifically, starting with deriving the Bouligand tangent and Fréchet normal cones of the 0/1 constraint, we establish several optimality conditions. One of them can be equivalently expressed by a system of equations, enabling the development of a semismooth Newton-type algorithm. The algorithm demonstrates a locally superlinear or quadratic convergence rate under standard assumptions along with nice numerical performance compared with several leading solvers.

Funding: This research was supported by the National Key R&D Program of China [Grant 2023YFA1011100], the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities, and the National Natural Science Foundation of China [Grant 12271309].
Indigenous Heritage and Ontological Conflicts in the Southcentral Andes
Authors: Orlandi Francesco
Published: October 2024

Abstract: Taking inspiration from the epistemological potential of the Aymara concept of taypi this contribution aims to show the persistence of Indigenous peoples' self-determination and community governance in contemporary heritage politics. A multisited archaeological ethnography across Tiwanaku (Bolivia) and the Calchaquí valleys (Tucumán, Argentina) brings to light the long memories of anti-colonial resistance in the southcentral Andes and visualizes heritage-making practices in their ecological dimension, bridging multiple temporalities and territorial relatedness. The resulting picture figures a deep-seated tension between regulatory policies that adjust indigenous heritage to universal classifications and values embedded in the modern nation-state imaginaries, and emancipatory politics in which heritage claims are entangled with the social reproduction of community life and with the reparation of historical injustices. This twofold political dimension materializes in the legal artefact of the free, prior, informed consultation (FPIC), whose long memory of ambiguity is traced down to the early day of colonization. The article argues that consent-seeking mechanisms create an intermediate space where universal and place-based worldmaking designs converge. Locating these grey areas in time and space is crucial for addressing intercultural histories and future-oriented practices of heritage rights.
The Intimacies of Restitution: Reinscribing the Dadaab Refugee Camps
Authors: Siddiqi Anooradha Iyer
Published: October 2024

Abstract: In a consideration of restitution through the work of Edward Said, this article examines a critical archive of artworks that carry out acts of countermapping, of "drawing" the Dadaab refugee camps, free from any agenda to restrict or control the free migration of people. The Dadaab refugee camps, in northern Kenya near the border of Somalia, have been for much of their existence the largest-ever refugee-hosting site administered by the UNHCR. The settlements have been drawn and redrawn, by architects, by humanitarians, by aerial photographers, and by satellites. The works of art in this article—by Deqa Abshir, AbdulFatah Adam, Elsa MH Mäki, and Cave Bureau—reinscribe the Dadaab refugee camps by "drawing," renarrating them with altogether different aims. This article discusses the work of these concerned artists in light of Said's reflections on academic freedom, made in Cape Town in the wake of the struggle against apartheid, in the article "Identity, Authority, Freedom: The Potentate and the Traveler." This critical archive of works enables conceptualizations of restitution. This article examines the intimacies of restitution through these distinct critical acts of reinscribing the Dadaab refugee camps.
The Emergence of New Disciplines and the Transformation of the Library and Information Science Profession
Authors: Hawamdeh Suliman , Madali Nayana Pampapura
Published: October 2024

Abstract: Advances in information and communication technologies, digitalization, and the internet have changed the way people process, use, and share information. The transformation of the library profession and the emergence of new disciplines such as information science, knowledge management, and data science have continued to raise questions about professional identity, workplace, interdisciplinarity, and the types of skills and competencies needed for information professionals to compete in a highly technical and knowledge intensive environment. In this paper, we reflect on the historical development in the field and examine emerging trends and their impact on the transformation of the information and knowledge professions. Data analysis of course offerings from top-ranked information science schools (iSchools) has shown strong emphasis on the use of terms such as “information” and “information science.” The use of the term “data” has significantly increased in the past few years due to the addition of new specialization and degree programs in data curation and data science. The decrease in the use of the term “library,” even though the library is still the largest employer of information science students at all levels, could be attributed to the continued trend and desire by academics and practitioners to separate the profession from the place of work.
Selection of OAM signal constellations for atmospheric channels using optimal transport theory
Authors: Cisternas Jaime E. , Anguita Jaime A.
Published: October 2024

We describe a method for determining optimal selections of orbital angular momentum (OAM) superpositions for OAM signal modulation in free-space optical communications using a measure of distance in the context of the Optimal Transport theory. Within the range of topological charges ℓ = −20 to ℓ = 20 we design OAM constellations using 16 to 128 symbols consisting of solos, duets, trios, and quartets of OAM modes. We propose a classification strategy requiring relatively low complexity to evaluate the performance of these constellations, achieving a classification error smaller than 1/1000 in weak to strong turbulence conditions for the 16-OAM constellation. We have found that the optimal set shows some dependence on the receiver’s architecture, so we offer results for optical detectors based on the conjugate projection, the mode sorter, and the Shack-Hartmann sensor.
Realization of multi-transverse-mode squeezed optical frequency combs with Gouy phase compensation
Authors: Liu Peng , Li Juan , Li Xinghua , Xiang Xiao , Wang Shaofeng , Liu Tao , Cao Mingtao , Zhang Shougang , Cai Yin , Dong Ruifang
Published: October 2024

Multimode quantum light fields significantly enhance quantum state manipulation and communication capabilities by expanding the dimensionality of the Hilbert space. In this work, we elaborately design a non-horizontal cavity suitable for a Gouy phase-compensated synchronously pumped optical parametric oscillator. By injecting an optical frequency comb in HG10 mode into the cavity as the seed, we demonstrate the simultaneous generation of a bright squeezed optical frequency comb in HG10 mode and a vacuum squeezed optical frequency comb in HG01 mode. The coexistence of amplitude quadrature squeezed fields in these two orthogonal first-order Hermite-Gaussian transverse modes also suggest the presence of quadrature entanglement between the two first-order Laguerre-Gaussian modes, LG0 + 1 and LG0 - 1. This research underscores the capability of one-step generation of multi-transverse-mode squeezed optical frequency combs using a single cavity, marking a significant stride in the realm of quantum optics.
Rapid quench annealing of Er implanted Si for quantum networking applications
Authors: Hughes Mark A. , Liu Huan , Brookfield Adam , Wang Tianrui , Crowe Iain F. , Dan Yaping
Published: October 2024

Erbium-implanted silicon (Er:Si) holds promise for quantum networking, but the formation of multiple Er centers poses a challenge. We show that the cubic center (Er-C) has C2v or lower symmetry and propose all Er centers range between full Si- and full O-coordination. By co-implanting Si with Er and O (both 1019 cm-3) and increasing the thermal anneal quenching rate from ∼100 °C/s to ∼1000 °C/s, we shifted the dominant optically active center from Er2O3 clusters to the Er-C center with mixed Si and O coordination. Temperature-dependent photoluminescence reveals Er2O3 clusters and Er-C centers have O-related defect states at ∼200 and 90 meV above the 4I13/2 Er manifold, respectively.
Single-longitudinal-mode self-seeded Brillouin fiber laser with an ultra-narrow linewidth achieved utilizing a triple-ring resonator
Authors: Liu Sha , You Yajun , Liu Yuan , Yan Qing , Yu Lei , He Wenjun , He Jian , Liu Yi , Chou Xiujian
Published: October 2024

What we believe to be a novel single longitudinal mode (SLM) triple-ring (T-R) self-seeded Brillouin fiber laser (BFL) featuring outstanding stability, an ultra-narrow linewidth, and a high optical signal-to-noise ratio (OSNR) is proposed and experimentally investigated in this study. The key innovation in this design is eliminating the need for an additional costly ultra-narrow linewidth pump source typically required in conventional BFL. Instead, the laser preferentially excites stimulated Brillouin scattering (SBS) in the fiber through the self-seeded cavity mode dominant in the cavity. This approach generates Brillouin stokes and leverages the Vernier effect of the T-R resonator structure to suppress multimode oscillations, ensuring the generation of a Brillouin laser with an ultra-narrow linewidth and enabling SLM operation. The experimental results show that with the output power of 980-nm LD fixed at 400 mw, the OSNR of the self-seeded BFL spectrum reaches 54 dB, and the side mode suppression ratio (SMSR) is 22 dB. The -3 dB linewidth of the self-seeded BFL can be measured by the heterodyne beat frequency method at 30 Hz, and the output power and wavelength fluctuations are lower than 1.318 dB and ±0.007 nm, respectively, during the sixty minutes observation period. Additionally, the wavelength of the self-seeded BFL can be flexibly tuned within the range of 1560 – 1575 nm. This innovative approach demonstrates significant theoretical and practical implications for the development of low-cost, high-performance BFL systems compared to traditional BFL methods.
Intelligent multi-parameter control of a rectangular pulse in a passively mode-locked fiber laser
Authors: Tong Lai-Yuan , Li Ti-Jian , Zhu Qi-Bin , Liu Meng , Zhang Zhen-Rong , Luo Zhi-Chao
Published: October 2024

Rectangular pulses with tunable width and intensity in fiber lasers are critical for the study of nonlinear pulse dynamics and applications of nanosecond laser sources. However, due to the complex nonlinear dynamics within the laser cavity, precisely controlling multiple parameters of the rectangular pulses in fiber lasers remains challenging. Here, we propose an approach for intelligently controlling the intensity and width of rectangular pulse using an improved particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm in a passively mode-locked fiber laser with a nonlinear polarization rotation (NPR) technique. By automatically adjusting the electronic polarization controller (EPC) and pump power, multiple parameters of the output rectangular pulse can be effectively tailored, and thus, to desirable ones. This enables the flexible setting of the intensity and width of the rectangular pulse within the permissible range in a passively mode-locked fiber laser. Our approach provides a promising way to meet the diverse demands of seed laser source in scientific and engineering fields.
Sub-volt forward-biased silicon microring modulator at 210 Gb/s
Authors: Chan David W. U. , Tsang Hon Ki
Published: October 2024

Low-voltage and efficient optical modulators in the silicon photonic (SiPh) platform are highly desired for realizing high-speed connectivity in chip level interconnects, data center interconnects, and high-performance computing (HPC). With the modulator operating at CMOS compatible voltages, high-voltage modulator drivers are no longer needed, thus reducing driver design complexity and power consumption. We demonstrate a silicon microring modulator (MRM) operating at a driving voltage of 0.8 Vpp. We achieve high modulation efficiency by using a small forward bias of 0.2 V: the forward bias voltage allows the modulator to have an enhanced optical modulation amplitude (OMA) by operating near injection mode, modulating 180 Gb/s (180 Gbaud) non-return-to-zero (NRZ) and 210 Gb/s (105 Gbaud) 4-level pulse amplitude modulation (PAM-4) free of electrical or optical amplification. We also demonstrate the operation at zero bias and achieve up to 200 Gb/s. Error-free operation was observed at 130 Gb/s (NRZ). The absence of an external biasing voltage can further improve energy efficiency and simplifies device integration.
Silicon-on-insulator wavelength-selective filter with integrated detectors at the 2 µm wave band
Authors: Arafat Yeasir , Waqas Abi , Justice John , Gocalinska Agnieszka , Atar Fatih , Russell Eoin , Roycroft Brendan , Mishra Darpan , Pelucchi Emanuele , Gunning Fatima , Corbett Brian
Published: October 2024

The short-wave infrared range is highly significant for spectroscopic sensing and upcoming optical communication applications. Integrating active and passive photonic components is essential to achieve compact optical solutions. In this paper, we show, for the first time to our knowledge, a wavelength-selective detection system based on the heterogeneous integration of two grating-coupled InGaAs photodetectors operating at the 2µm wave band, with a wavelength selectivity provided by a dual-channel Mach–Zehnder interferometer fabricated using a silicon-on-insulator (SOI) wafer. A full system responsivity of 0.1 A/W is measured together with >9.5 dB rejection ratio at two wavelengths. To our knowledge, we achieve the lowest measured dark current density (7.6 × 10−4 A/cm2 at −2 V) with micro-transfer printed integrated detectors.
Decoupled tip–tilt detection and steering of beamlets in a fiber laser array using sequential tagging lasers
Authors: Dong Lizhi , Wang Xun , Liu Wenjin , Chen Shanqiu , Liu Ziyue , Zhang Ying , Liu Ziyu , Huang Jian , Yu Xin
Published: October 2024

The tiled fiber laser array is a promising architecture for power scaling and mitigation of atmospheric turbulence. Precise tip–tilt detection and steering of the beamlets in the array to guarantee effective overlap in the far-field is essential for high beam qualities. However, the beamlets are tightly coupled in the far-field, making it a major challenge to identify each other. Consequently, most researchers turn to indirect methods without tip–tilt detection. We propose what we believe to be a novel approach of decoupled tip–tilt detection and steering of the beamlets for a tiled fiber laser array. A pulsed tagging laser is divided and combined into each beamlet with difference pulse sequences. By synchronizing the tagging laser pulses and exposures of the far-field camera, only one spot of the tagging laser is detected in each image, whose location is coincident with its corresponding beamlet. Thereby, the beamlets are decoupled by different pulses. The pointing of each beamlet is then readily detected and steered individually. The proposed method is validated by experiments with a seven-beamlet adaptive fiber collimator array and proved efficient. This is the first, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, demonstration of direct and decoupled beamlet tip–tilt detection and steering in the far-field for a tiled fiber laser array.
Quantum Computing and its Applications
Authors: Egger Daniel
Published: October 2024

Quantum computing may solve complex problems in areas as diverse as natural sciences, optimization, machine learning, and finance. I will briefly introduce the IBM Quantum roadmap and explore some of the applications of quantum computing.

Full-text article not available; see video presentation
Unveiling the novel regulatory roles of RpoD-family sigma factors in Salmonella Typhimurium heat shock response through systems biology approaches
Authors: Park Joon Young , Jang Minchang , Lee Sang-Mok , Woo Jihoon , Lee Eun-Jin , Kim Donghyuk
Published: October 2024

Three RpoD-family sigma factors, RpoD, RpoS, and RpoH, play critical roles in transcriptional regulation in Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium under heat shock conditions. However, the genome-wide regulatory mechanisms of these sigma factors in response to heat stress have remained elusive. In this study, we comprehensively identified 2,319, 2,226, and 213 genome-wide binding sites for RpoD, RpoS, and RpoH, respectively, under sublethal heat shock conditions (42°C). Machine learning-based transcriptome analysis was employed to infer the relative activity of iModulons, providing valuable insights into the transcriptional impact of heat shock. Integrative data analysis enabled the reconstruction of the transcriptional regulatory network of sigma factors, revealing how they modulate gene expression to adapt to heat stress, including responses to anaerobic and oxidative stresses. Notably, we observed a significant expansion of the RpoS sigmulon from 97 to 301 genes in response to heat shock, underscoring the crucial role of RpoS in regulating various metabolic processes. Moreover, we uncovered a competition mechanism between RpoD and RpoS within RpoS sigmulons, where RpoS significantly increases its binding within promoter regions shared with RpoD under heat shock conditions. These findings illuminate how three RpoD-family sigma factors coordinate multiple cellular processes to orchestrate the overall response of S. Typhimurium to heat stress.
Spatial-temporal patterns and predictors of timing and inadequate antenatal care utilization in Zambia: A Generalized Linear Mixed Model (GLMM) investigation from 1992 to 2018
Authors: Shumba Samson , Fwemba Isaac , Kaymba Violet
Published: October 2024

Antenatal care (ANC) plays a crucial role in preventing and detecting pregnancy risks, facilitating prompt treatment, and disseminating essential information to expectant mothers. This role is particularly vital in developing countries, where a 4.65% rise in maternal mortality rate was observed in 2022, with over 800 maternal and 7,700 perinatal deaths reported. The study aimed at investigating the spatial temporal patterns and associated factors of timing and inadequacy of antenatal care utilization in Zambia, from 1992 to 2018 using a Generalized Linear Mixed Effect Model (GLMM) approach. The study utilized the Zambia Demographic Health Survey (ZDHS) database. The relationship between dependent and independent variables was examined using the Rao-Scott Chi-square test. Predictors of inadequate utilisation of ANC were identified through the multilevel generalised linear model. Spatial effects were modeled using Quantum Geographic Information System (QGIS) version 3.34.1 to develop univariate choropleth maps. A total of 45, 140 (31, 482 women had less than 8 ANC visits and 2, 004 had 8 or more ANC visits) women with a prior childbirth were included in the study. The findings in the study revealed that among women aged 15 to 19 years in 1992, 1996 and 2013/14, the rates of inadequate antenatal care utilization (less than eight ANC visits) was 90.87%, 90.99%, and 99.63%, respectively. Lack of formal education was associated with inadequate ANC from 1992 to 2018, with percentages ranging from 91.12% to 99.64%. They were notable geospatial variations in the distribution of ANC underutilization across provinces with Luapula, Muchinga, Northwestern, Northern and Eastern recording higher proportions. Furthermore, the study showed that higher education (AOR, 0.30; 95% Confidence Interval, CI, 0.14–0.63; p = 0.001), and wealth index (AOR, 0.34; 95% CI, 0.17–0.70; p = 0.003) correlated with reduced odds of inadequate ANC utilization. In conclusion, this study highlights worrisome trends in ANC utilization in Zambia, with a significant rise in inadequacy, especially in adhering to the WHO’s recommended eight ANC visits. Over the period from 1996 to 2018, there was a discernible decline in the prevalence of delayed initiation of ANC. The findings underscore a notable disparity between current ANC practices and established guidelines. Additionally, various factors predicting suboptimal ANC attendance have been identified. These insights call for targeted interventions to address the identified challenges and improve the overall quality and accessibility of ANC services in Zambia.
LncRNA MALAT1 as diagnostic and prognostic biomarker in colorectal cancers: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Masrour Mahdi , Khanmohammadi Shaghayegh , Habibzadeh Amirhossein , Fallahtafti Parisa
Published: October 2024

Objective

This study investigated the relationship between the long non-coding RNA Metastasis-Associated Lung Adenocarcinoma Transcript 1 (MALAT1) expression and colorectal cancer (CRC) using a thorough systematic review and meta-analysis.

Methods

Under the PRISMA guidelines, a systematic review was conducted on studies published from the databases’ inception to September 18, 2023. Prognostic value and diagnostic accuracy were explored. Additionally, the association between levels of MALAT1 expression and pathological features was investigated. The statistical analysis was performed using the “meta” package of R.

Results

Among the pathological parameters examined, based on three studies involving 51 cases of metastatic CRC and 135 cases of non-metastatic CRC, a statistically significant correlation was found between the expression level of MALAT1 and distant metastasis, with an OR of 16.0118 (95% CI: 4.5618–56.2015). Three studies involving 378 cases reported overall survival and had a pooled HR of 2.3854 (95% CI: 1.3272–4.2875). Three studies involving 436 cases reported disease-free survival and had a pooled HR of 2.4772 (95% CI: 1.3774–4.4549). All prognosis studies utilized tumor tissue samples as specimens to assess the expression level of MALAT1. Case-to-control diagnostic studies with 126 cases and 126 controls had a pooled AUC value of 0.6173 (95% CI: 0.5436–0.6909), a pooled sensitivity of 0.675 (95% CI: 0.324–0.900), and a pooled specificity of 0.771 (95% CI: 0.685–0.839).

Conclusions

The expression of MALAT1 in CRC is highly correlated with distant metastasis and has an impact on survival and prognosis. MALAT1 could also be employed as a diagnostic biomarker. More prospective studies should be performed to assess the MALAT1 diagnostic potential in the early stages of CRC.
The potential impacts of exploitation on the ecological roles of fish species targeted by fisheries: A multifunctional perspective
Authors: Costa Eudriano F. S. , Menezes Gui M. , Colaço Ana
Published: October 2024

Examining ecosystem functioning through the lens of trait diversity serves as a valuable proxy. It offers crucial insights into how exploitation affects the specific ecological roles played by fisheries targeted species. The present study investigates the potential impacts of exploitation on the ecological roles of fish species targeted by fisheries through an examination of trait diversity. It focuses on the trait diversity of fish landed by local and coastal fleets in the Azores archipelago over the past four decades. Fourteen functional traits were merged to data on fish assemblages landed by both fishing fleets from 1980 to 2020. These traits corresponded to four fundamental fish functions: habitat use, locomotion, feeding and life history. Variability in functional diversity metrics (i.e., functional richness- FRic, functional evenness- FEve, functional divergence-FDiv, and functional dispersion- FDis) among fleets, functions and across decades was assessed using null models. The results revealed similar trait diversity between assemblages landed by local and coastal fishing fleets with overall trait diversity remaining relatively stable over time. However, fishery activities targeted a wide range of functional traits. Additionally, seasonal availability and increased catches of certain fish species can significantly alter trait diversity and their associated functions. The findings highlight the importance of addressing fishing impacts on species traits and their ecological roles, which is crucial for long-term fisheries and ecological sustainability.
Evaluation of self-cleaning mechanisms for improving performance of roof-mounted solar PV panels: A comparative study
Authors: Hameed Danish , Ditta Allah , Bajwa Muhammad Wasif , Ullah Sibghat , Mujtaba M. A. , Fouad Yasser , Kalam M. A. , Soudagar Manzoore Elahi M.
Published: October 2024

Solar panel installation is generally exposed to dust. Therefore, soiling on the surface of the solar panels significantly reduces the effectiveness of solar panels. Accumulation of dust also shortens their lifespan and reduces efficiency by about 15% to 20%. A significant reduction in the efficiency of solar photovoltaic panels has been observed due to inadequate insulation and dust deposition or shading. To harness maximum solar energy from solar panels up to their rated capacity, they need to be cleaned periodically. Therefore, the current study focuses on the comparative performance analysis of two distinct types of self-cleaning mechanisms, namely self-cleaning wiper (SCW) and nano-coating method. These methods are economical and sustainable for the standard atmospheric conditions of Pakistan. Solar panels (reference, nano-coated, and self-cleaning wiper mechanism) were placed on the roof of the Mechanical Engineering Department MUST Mirpur AJK for five weeks. Solar irradiance, dust density & performance parameters of these three panels were recorded on weekly basis. It was observed that an increase in the rate of dust deposition negatively affects the conversion efficiency of solar panels. When dust density was increased from 7.5 to 18.15 (g/m2), the percentile drops in rated power (50W) for reference, nano-coated, and self-cleaning wiper mechanisms are 37%, 33% and 23%, respectively. Moreover, the payback period of nano-coated and SCW is 1.07 years and 2.79 years, respectively.
Yeast encapsulation of photosensitive insecticides increases toxicity against mosquito larvae while protecting microorganisms
Authors: Meier Cole J. , Wrobleski Veronica R. , Hillyer Julián F.
Published: October 2024

An important defense against the deadly diseases that mosquitoes transmit is the application of insecticides that reduce mosquito populations. Unfortunately, the evolution and subsequent spread of insecticide resistance has decreased their efficacy. Therefore, new mosquito control strategies are needed. One class of larvicides, known as photosensitive insecticides, or PSIs, kills larvae via light-activated oxidative damage. PSIs are promising larvicides because of their high larvicidal efficacy, rapid photodegradation, inexpensive cost, and mechanism that is dissimilar to other insecticide classes. We explored a novel delivery strategy for increasing both the larvicidal efficiency and environmental biocompatibility of PSIs, known as yeast encapsulation. Using the PSIs, curcumin and methylene blue, we measured the survival of Anopheles gambiae larvae and Escherichia coli following exposure to either non-encapsulated or yeast-encapsulated PSIs and a photoperiod. Yeast encapsulation increased the phototoxicity of both curcumin and methylene blue against mosquito larvae, likely by increasing ingestion. Furthermore, yeast encapsulation protected E. coli from the phototoxicity of yeast-encapsulated curcumin, but not yeast-encapsulated methylene blue. Yeast encapsulation increases the larvicidal efficacy of a PSI while also increasing biocompatibility. Therefore, yeast encapsulation of PSIs is a promising insecticide delivery strategy for mosquito control.
Effect of the aggregation state of amyloid-beta (25-35) on the brain oxidative stress in vivo
Authors: Kozina Anna , Herbert-Alonso Goethe , Díaz Alfonso , Flores Gonzalo , Guevara Jorge
Published: October 2024

Aggregation pathway of amyloid-β (25-35) in water affects the oxidative stress in the brain observed after administration of aggregated peptide in animals in vivo. Our studies on peptide aggregation ex situ prior to injection suggest that from the onset of peptide incubation in aqueous media, all samples exhibit the formation of fibril-like aggregates, characterized by a significant amount of β-sheets. This induces significant oxidative stress in vivo as observed for up to 60 min of peptide aggregation time. As the aggregation advances, the fibril-like aggregates become longer and intertwined, while the amount of β-sheets does not change significantly. An injection of such large, thick, and entangled aggregates in the animal brain results in a drastic increase in oxidative stress. This may be related to the number of activated microglia that initiate a sequence of inflammatory responses in the presence of large, highly interconnected fibrils.
Antioxidant cysteine and methionine derivatives show trachea disruption in insects
Authors: Morimura Hiroyuki , Ishigami Kota , Kanie Shusei , Sato Yuya , Kikuchi Yoshitomo
Published: October 2024

To prevent the deterioration of the global environment, the reduction of chemical pesticide use and the development of eco-friendly pest control technologies are urgent issues. Our recent study revealed that the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by dual oxidase (Duox) plays a pivotal role in stabilizing the tracheal network by intermediating the tyrosine cross-linking of proteins that constitute trachea. Notably, the formation of dityrosine bonds by ROS can be inhibited by the intake of an antioxidant cysteine derivative N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC), which can suppress insect respiration. In this study, we screened for the derivatives showing insecticidal activity and tracheal formation inhibition. As a result of investigating the soybean pest bug Riptortus pedestris, cysteine and methionine derivatives showed respiratory formation inhibition and high insecticidal activity. In particular, NAC had a slow-acting insecticidal effect, while L-cysteine methyl ester (L-CME) showed relatively fast-acting insecticidal activity. Furthermore, the insecticidal activity of these derivatives was also detected in Drosophila, mealworms, cockroaches, termites, and plant bugs. Our results suggest that some antioxidant compounds have specific tracheal inhibitory activity in different insect species and they may be used as novel pest control agents upon further characterization.
Evaluation method and design of greenhouse pear pollination drones based on grounded theory and integrated theory
Authors: Wang Tao , Zhao Yanxiao , Li Pang Leah Ling , Cheng Qi
Published: October 2024

Greenhouse cultivation promotes an efficient and environmentally friendly agricultural production model, significantly enhancing resource sustainability and advancing sustainable agriculture. Traditional greenhouse pollination methods are inefficient and labor-intensive, limiting the economic benefits of greenhouse pear cultivation. To improve pollination efficiency and achieve fully automated mechanized operations, an innovative design method for greenhouse pear pollination drones has been developed. First, design criteria were extracted using Grounded Theory (GT), and the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) was employed to determine the weight of user demand evaluation indicators. Next, the Quality Function Deployment (QFD) method translated user needs into technical requirements, resulting in the final ranking of design element weights. The drone was then designed based on these weighted rankings, yielding an optimal solution. This method quantifies the functional requirements of the product, effectively identifying key needs for the greenhouse pear pollination drones and proposing targeted solutions. Additionally, it provides a design reference for other highly functional agricultural machinery products.
Relationship between customer knowledge management and the value co-creation of fitness application customers: Mediating role of flow experience
Authors: Wang Chao , Wang Zhigang , Liu Liandi , Hua Kai
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study examined the impacts of customer knowledge management and flow experience on customer value co-creation and the mediating role of flow experience in the context of fitness apps.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the questionnaire star platform to edit the questionnaire and collect data(n = 450). A structural equation modeling test was conducted to examine the relationships between the variables.

Findings

The findings reveal that in a fitness app service scenario, customer knowledge management has a significant positive impact on customer flow experience, customer flow experience has a significant positive impact on customer value co-creation, and customer flow experience plays a partial mediating role in the path from customer knowledge management to customer value co-creation.

Practical implications

The results could help fitness-app-related enterprises or service organizations understand the factors influencing and processes of customer participation in value co-creation and thus could help such enterprises and organizations formulate effective marketing strategies to realize customer value co-creation and ultimately to achieve their development goals.

Originality/value

Using value co-creation theory and customer-dominant logic, this study analyzed the effects of customer knowledge management, flow experience, and customer value co-creation in the context of fitness apps and examined the mediating role of flow experience. The findings fill a gap in the theoretical research regarding customer value co-creation in the context of fitness apps and expand the scope of research on customer knowledge management and flow experience.
Comparing the mental effects of interacting with farm animals and walking in a botanical garden
Authors: Temesi Andrea , Kubinyi Enikő , Pogány Ákos , Babarczi-Bereczky Boróka Mária , Miklósi Ádám
Published: October 2024

Over the past two decades, farm animal-assisted therapies have become popular. However, the effects of farm animals on healthy people’s mental states have not yet been investigated. In Study 1, we aimed to explore whether positive effects of human-animal interaction (HAI) can be detected in healthy farm volunteers even after short-term (2–3 hours) work with goats and goatlings on a goat farm. We found that the participants’ state anxiety decreased (p < 0.001) while their trust levels increased (p < 0.001) after interacting with goats. Nevertheless, it is possible that time spent in nature alone can have a beneficial effect on well-being. Therefore, in Study 2, we compared the results of Study 1 with those of a similar short-term outdoor treatment, walking in a botanical garden as a visitor. Similar but smaller effects were found for garden visitors. Decreases in anxiety scores and increases in trust scores were more pronounced in farm volunteers (anxiety: 25% vs 13%, p < 0.001; trust: 13% vs 3%, p = 0.002) after the treatments. Overall, the results suggest that the novel experience of interacting with goats and goatlings has a more positive effect on the mental state of healthy humans than walking in a botanical garden. This finding offer a strong foundation for developing animal assisted therapy methods for individuals with short or long term mental problems, but they can also enhance the wellbeing of mentally healthy people.
Pattern detection in the vehicular activity of bus rapid transit systems
Authors: Martínez-González Jaspe U. , P. Riascos Alejandro , Mateos José L.
Published: October 2024

In this paper, we explore different methods to detect patterns in the activity of bus rapid transit (BRT) systems focusing on two aspects of transit: infrastructure and the movement of vehicles. To this end, we analyze records of velocity and position of each active vehicle in nine BRT systems located in the Americas. We detect collective patterns that characterize each BRT system obtained from the statistical analysis of velocities in the entire system (global scale) and at specific zones (local scale). We analyze the velocity records at the local scale applying the Kullback-Leibler divergence to compare the vehicular activity between zones. This information is organized in a similarity matrix that can be represented as a network of zones. The resulting structure for each system is analyzed using network science methods. In particular, by implementing community detection algorithms on networks, we obtain different groups of zones characterized by similarities in the movement of vehicles. Our findings show that the representation of the dataset with information of vehicles as a network is a useful tool to characterize at different scales the activity of BRT systems when geolocalized records of vehicular movement are available. This general approach can be implemented in the analysis of other public transportation systems.
Mixed Leptospira infections in domestic animals from a rural community with high leptospirosis endemicity
Authors: Mosquera Pamela , Mejia Lorena , Ortiz Gabriela , Pazmino Giuliana , Pearson Talima , Barragán Verónica , Trueba Gabriel
Published: October 2024

Background

Leptospirosis is one of the most common zoonoses in the world which is associated with a severe febrile disease in humans causing a variety of syndromes including meningitis, interstitial nephritis, hepatitis, and sometimes death. Leptospirosis is caused by different pathogenic Leptospira species divided into almost 30 serogroups and more than 300 serovars which are carried by some animal asymptomatic chronic infections. Humans can become infected through direct contact with animal urine or indirectly by coming into contact with fresh water or mud contaminated with urine.

Methodology/Principal findings

In this research, we looked for leptospiral DNA in urine samples from dogs living in a rural, low-income and highly endemic community in the coast of Ecuador. We used molecular biology and next-generation sequencing for the detection. Our results showed evidence of two Leptospira species, L interrogans and L. santarosai, genomes in three dogs.

Conclusions/Significance

It has been widely known that animal carriers are typically infected with a single leptospiral strain. However, recent reports, including the present one, indicate that carrier animals may be coinfected with two or more leptospiral species.
Morphine self-administration is inhibited by the antioxidant N‐acetylcysteine and the anti-inflammatory ibudilast; an effect enhanced by their co-administration
Authors: Quintanilla María Elena , Morales Paola , Santapau Daniela , Gallardo Javiera , Rebolledo Rocío , Riveras Gabriel , Acuña Tirso , Herrera-Marschitz Mario , Israel Yedy , Ezquer Fernando
Published: October 2024

Background

The treatment of opioid addiction mainly involves the medical administration of methadone or other opioids, aimed at gradually reducing dependence and, consequently, the need for illicit opioid procurement. Thus, initiating opioid maintenance therapy with a lower level of dependence would be advantageous. There is compelling evidence indicating that opioids induce brain oxidative stress and associated glial activation, resulting in the dysregulation of glutamatergic homeostasis, which perpetuates drug intake. The present study aimed to determine whether inhibiting oxidative stress and/or neuroinflammation reduces morphine self-administration in an animal model of opioid dependence.

Methods

Morphine dependence, assessed as voluntary morphine self-administration, was evaluated in Wistar-derived UChB rats. Following an extended period of morphine self-administration, animals were administered either the antioxidant N-acetylcysteine (NAC; 40 mg/kg/day), the anti-inflammatory ibudilast (7.5 mg/kg/day) or the combination of both agents. Oxidative stress and neuroinflammation were evaluated in the hippocampus, a region involved in drug recall that feeds into the nucleus accumbens, where the levels of the glutamate transporters GLT-1 and xCT were further assessed.

Results

Daily administration of either NAC or ibudilast led to a mild reduction in voluntary morphine intake, while the co-administration of both therapeutic agents resulted in a marked inhibition (-57%) of morphine self-administration. The administration of NAC or ibudilast markedly reduced both the oxidative stress induced by chronic morphine intake and the activation of microglia and astrocytes in the hippocampus. However, only the combined administration of NAC + ibudilast was able to restore the normal levels of the glutamate transporter GLT-1 in the nucleus accumbens.

Conclusion

Separate or joint administration of an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent reduced voluntary opioid intake, which could have translational value for the treatment of opioid use disorders, particularly in settings where the continued maintenance of oral opioids is a therapeutic option.
Genital infections in high-risk human papillomavirus positive Paraguayan women aged 30–64 with and without cervical lesions
Authors: Arévalos Alanis , Valenzuela Adriana , Mongelós Pamela , Barrios Hernán , Rodríguez María Isabel , Báez Romina , Centurión Claudia , Vester Jaime , Soilán Ana , Ortega Marina , Meza Lorena , Páez Malvina , Castro Amalia , Cristaldo Carmen , Soskin Ana , Deluca Gerardo , Baena Armando , Herrero Rolando , Almonte Maribel , Kasamatsu Elena , Mendoza Laura ,   ESTAMPA Paraguayan Study Group
Published: October 2024

Objective

To determine the prevalence of genital infections (GIs), including sexual transmitted STIs: Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis, Mycoplasma genitalium, Trichomonas vaginalis, and opportunistic pathogens that generally do not cause STIs, non-classic STI: Ureaplasma urealyticum, Ureaplasma parvum and Mycoplasma hominis, in women with high-risk oncogenic human papillomavirus (hr-HPV) infection and their association with cervical lesions.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was carried out including 231 hr-HPV positive women. Of these, 46 has histologically confirmed cervical intraepithelial neoplasia 3 (CIN3) or more (including CIN3 and cervical cancer lesions-CIN3+). GIs were detected by multiplex real time PCR. Odds ratios (OR) were estimated to explore possible associations between GIs and the presence or absence of CIN3+ lesions. Additionally, we examined associations between sociodemographic, sexual, and clinical characteristics and the presence of GIs.

Results

In total, there were 174/231 cases of GIs corresponding to an overall prevalence of 75.3% (95%CI: 69.4–80.4), being non-classic STIs the most common (72.3%) compared to STIs (12.6%). The most prevalent non-classic STI and STI were U. parvum (49.8%) and C. trachomatis (7.4%), respectively. The odds of presenting GIs were 3 times higher in women under 46 years compared to older counterparts (OR: 3.32, 95%CI: 1.74–6.16), and in women with a normal Pap smear with inflammation compared to those without inflammation (OR: 3.31, 95%CI: 1.15–9.77). GIs were equally present in women with and without CIN3+ lesions.

Conclusion

We observed an association of GIs with inflammation in the Pap smear, but no association with CIN3+, as some of them are very common and likely part of the normal vaginal flora, suggesting that such infections do not appear to be cofactors in cervical carcinogenesis, although larger prospective studies are needed.
Transcultural negotiation of art and aesthetics: A study with reference to history of Kathakali in Calcutta
Authors: Krishnan Jyotsna
Published: October 2024

The article discusses the idea of transcultural negotiations focusing on the history of Kathakali institutions in Bengal. It elucidates the idea of institutions with diasporic identity, which resulted in the popularity of the art forms. The article establishes an idea that art forms are relocated to another place as a part of establishing a diasporic identity. It identifies three types of reinventions namely, syllabus-oriented, teaching-oriented and performance-oriented which are connected with Kathakali. These categories are described in detail through the opinion of various teachers, scholars and the artists. The article also describes the difficulties of the transcultural migration of the art forms and the detailed description of the institutions. The study also looks at the contribution of Asiatic Society of Bengal in bringing up a patronage for Asian arts.
Editorial
Authors: Nair Sreenath
Published: October 2024

The editorial introduces the articles presented in the Indian Theatre Journal (ITJ), Issue 8.