bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Apoptosis related genes mediated molecular subtypes depict the hallmarks of the tumor microenvironment and guide immunotherapy in bladder cancer
Authors: Zhou Liquan , Xu Guanglong , Huang Fu , Chen Wenyuan , Zhang Jiange , Tang Yong
Published: April 2023

Apoptosis has been discovered as a mechanism of cell death. The purpose of this study is to identify the diagnostic signature factors related to bladder cancer (BLCA) through apoptosis related genes (ARGs). Clinicopathological parameters and transcriptomics data of 1,440 BLCA patients were obtained from 7 datasets (GSE13507, GSE31684, GSE32548, GSE32894, GSE48075, TCGA-BLCA, and IMvigor210). We first identified prognosis-related ARGs in BLCA and used them to construct two ARGs molecular subtypes by using consensus clustering algorithm. By using principal component analysis algorithms, a ARGscore was constructed to quantify the index of individualized patient. High ARGscore correlated with progressive malignancy and poor outcomes in BLCA patients. High ARGscore was associated with higher immune cell, higher estimate scores, higher stromal scores, higher immune scores, higher immune checkpoint, and lower tumor purity, which was consistent with the “immunity tidal model theory”. Preclinically, BLCA immunotherapy cohorts confirmed patients with low ARGscore demonstrated significant therapeutic advantages and clinical benefits. These findings contribute to our understanding of ARGs and immunotherapy in BLCA. The ARGscore is a potentially useful tool to predict the prognosis and immunotherapy in BLCA.
Lycorine transfersomes modified with cell-penetrating peptides for topical treatment of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Li Ying , Tai Zongguang , Ma Jinyuan , Miao Fengze , Xin Rujuan , Shen Cuie , Shen Min , Zhu Quangang , Chen Zhongjian
Published: April 2023

Background

Topical anticancer drugs offer a potential therapeutic modality with high compliance for treating cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC). However, the existing topical treatments for cSCC are associated with limited penetrating ability to achieve the desired outcome. Therefore, there remains an urgent requirement to develop drugs with efficient anticancer activity suitable for treating cSCC and to overcome the skin physiological barrier to improve the efficiency of drug delivery to the tumor.

Results

We introduced lycorine (LR) into the topical treatment for cSCC and developed a cell-penetrating peptide (CPP)-modified cationic transfersome gel loaded with lycorine-oleic acid ionic complex (LR-OA) (LR@DTFs-CPP Gel) and investigated its topical therapeutic effects on cSCC. The anti-cSCC effects of LR and skin penetration of LR-OA transfersomes were confirmed. Simultaneously, cationic lipids and modification of R5H3 peptide of the transfersomes further enhanced the permeability of the skin and tumor as well as the effective delivery of LR to tumor cells.

Conclusions

Topical treatment of cSCC-xenografted nude mice with LR@DTFs-CPP Gel showed effective anticancer properties with high safety. This novel formulation provides novel insights into the treatment and pathogenesis of cSCC.
The relationship between micronutrient status, frailty, systemic inflammation, and clinical outcomes in patients admitted to hospital with COVID-19
Authors: McGovern Josh , Wadsworth John , Catchpole Anthony , Richards Conor , McMillan Donald C. , Kelliher Tadhg , Goodall Emma , Murray Ellie , Melaugh Terry , McPhillips Shannon , Brice Kathryn , Barbour Katie , Robinson Sophie , Moffitt Peter , Kemp Olivia , Talwar Dinesh , Maguire Donogh
Published: April 2023

Background

Micronutrients have been associated with disease severity and poorer clinical outcomes in patients with COVID-19. However, there is a paucity of studies examining if the relationship with micronutrient status and clinical outcomes is independent of recognised prognostic factors, specifically frailty and the systemic inflammatory response (SIR). The aim of the present study was to examine the relationship between micronutrient status, frailty, systemic inflammation, and clinical outcomes in patients admitted with COVID-19.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data was performed on patients with confirmed COVID-19, admitted to hospital between the 1st April 2020–6th July 2020. Clinicopathological characteristics, frailty assessment, biochemical and micronutrient laboratory results were recorded. Frailty status was determined using the Clinical Frailty scale. SIR was determined using serum CRP. Clinical outcomes of interest were oxygen requirement, ITU admission and 30-day mortality. Categorical variables were analysed using chi-square test and binary logistics regression analysis. Continuous variables were analysed using the Mann–Whitney U or Kruskal Wallis tests.

Results

281 patients were included. 55% (n = 155) were aged ≥ 70 years and 39% (n = 109) were male. 49% (n = 138) of patients were frail (CFS > 3). 86% (n = 242) of patients had a serum CRP > 10 mg/L. On univariate analysis, frailty was significantly associated with thirty-day mortality (p < 0.001). On univariate analysis, serum CRP was found to be significantly associated with an oxygen requirement on admission in non-frail patients (p = 0.004). Over a third (36%) of non-frail patients had a low vitamin B1, despite having normal reference range values of red cell B2, B6 and selenium. Furthermore, serum CRP was found to be significantly associated with a lower median red cell vitamin B1 (p = 0.029).

Conclusion

Vitamin B1 stores may be depleted in COVID-19 patients experiencing a significant SIR and providing rationale for thiamine supplementation. Further longitudinal studies are warranted to delineate the trend in thiamine status following COVID-19.
Perspectives on sexual and reproductive health self-care among women, healthcare providers, and other key informants: a mixed-methods study in South Africa and Zambia
Authors: Cartwright Alice F. , Velarde Marissa , Beksinska Mags , Smit Jennifer , Kasaro Margaret , Tang Jennifer H. , Milford Cecilia , Maphumulo Virginia , Chinyama Manze , Chabu Esther , Mudenda Mayaba , Wong Christina , Fawzy Maria , Callahan Rebecca
Published: April 2023

Background

“Self-care” for sexual and reproductive health (SRH) includes contraceptive methods and other supplies that people can use with or without the support of a healthcare provider. Self-administered tests, self-injection of injectable contraception, or self-removal of intrauterine devices (IUDs) can increase people’s access to and autonomy over their own SRH. Objectives of this study were to assess women’s current interest in and use of SRH self-care and explore key informants’ (KI) opinions of self-care, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

Data for this study came from female participants in the longitudinal Contraceptive Use Beyond ECHO (CUBE) study, and KIs, including healthcare providers, in South Africa and Zambia between September 2020 and June 2021. For this analysis, we used data from a participant phone survey (n = 537), and from in-depth interviews (IDIs) completed with a sub-sample of women (n = 39) and KIs (n = 36). Survey data were analyzed with descriptive statistics, and IDI data were analyzed using applied thematic analysis.

Results

Female survey participants in South Africa were more interested in learning about emergency contraceptive pills, subcutaneous injectable contraception, and CycleBeads, while Zambian participants wanted more information and access to condoms. However, in IDIs in both countries, women described minimal experience with self-care beyond condom use. In the Zambian KI IDIs, COVID-19 led to increased self-care counseling on subcutaneous injectable contraception and HIV self-testing. KIs who do not counsel on self-care were concerned that women may harm themselves or blame the provider for difficulties. Two KIs thought that women could possibly self-remove IUDs, but most expressed concerns. Reported barriers to self-care included COVID movement restrictions, transport costs, lack of accessible pharmacies, women’s low awareness, and possible stigma.

Conclusions

Women surveyed reported interest in learning more about SRH self-care methods and resources, but in IDIs did not report extensive previous use besides condoms. KIs described some concerns about women’s ability to use self-care methods. Counseling on and provision of self-care methods and supplies may have increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, but ensuring that self-care is more than just a temporary measure in health systems has the potential to increase access to SRH care and support women’s autonomy and healthcare needs.
The association between the multiple birth and breast cancer incidence: an update of a systematic review and meta-analysis from 1983 to 2022
Authors: Veisi Pedram , Nikouei Maziar , Cheraghi Mojtaba , Shahgheibi Sholeh , Moradi Yousef
Published: April 2023

Background

It has been assumed that perinatal factors such as multiple pregnancies may affect subsequent breast cancer risk in the mother. Considering the inconsistencies in the results of case-control and cohort studies published in the world, this meta-analysis was conducted in order to determine the exact association between multiple pregnancies (twins or more) and the breast cancer incidence.

Methods

This study was performed as a meta-analysis based on PRISMA guidelines by searching the international databases of PubMed (Medline), Scopus, and Web of Science as well as by screening selected articles based on their subject, abstract and full text. The search time was from January 1983 to November 2022. Then the NOS checklist was used to evaluate the quality of the final selected articles. The indicators considered for the meta-analysis included the odds ratio (OR) and the risk ratio (RR) along with the confidence interval reported in the selected primary studies. The desired analyzes were performed with STATA software version 17 to be reported.

Results

In this meta-analysis, 19 studies were finally selected for analysis, which fully met the inclusion criteria. Of these, 11 were case-control studies and 8 were cohort ones. Their sample size was 263,956 women (48,696 with breast cancer and 215,260 healthy) and 1,658,378 (63,328 twin or multiple pregnancies and 1,595,050 singleton pregnancies), respectively. After combining the results of cohort and case-control studies, the effect of multiple pregnancies on the breast cancer incidence was equal to 1.01 (95% CI: 0.89–1.14; I2: 44.88%, P: 0.06) and 0.89 (95% CI: 0.83–0.95; I2: 41.73%, P: 0.07), respectively.

Conclusion

The present meta-analysis results showed, in general, multiple pregnancies were one of the preventive factors of breast cancer.
Does agrivoltaism reconcile energy and agriculture? Lessons from a French case study
Authors: Carrausse Romain , Arnauld de Sartre Xavier
Published: April 2023

Background

Agrivoltaism is presented as an innovative production system that may combine agricultural activity and energy production on the same parcel of land. The deployment of this innovation has already begun in France as part of the energy transition initiatives, and many actors consider that its deployment only depends on social acceptance issues. However, given that agrivoltaism cuts across the agricultural and energy sectors, social, technical, and political concerns have arisen. While these concerns are primarily reflected in conflict and opposition, the problem goes far beyond the simple question of social acceptance. Indeed, it relates to the dynamics of innovation and governance, structured in different arenas at different scales that shape how this innovation is deployed.

Methods

The authors conducted a qualitative study revolving around three methodological approaches: a press analysis, a review of scientific literature, and fieldwork in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques district in France. Drawing on the case of a disputed project, several semi-structured interviews were conducted. These interviews explored how the public sector, institutions, energy companies, and local farmers perceive the development of agrivoltaics and how they organise the dynamics of governance to control its deployment.

Results

Our analysis highlights four main results: (i) agrivoltaism is an innovation conceptualised in techno-scientific arenas which seek to define its agricultural viability; (ii) at the national level, the remote control by the State does not provide a framework for governance capable of involving the various actors in the fields of agriculture and energy; (iii) the deployment of agrivoltaism systems across regions engenders conflict while placing key local actors in a situation of uncertainty with regard to how best to manage this innovation; (iv) while individuals are subjected to territorialisation, this paradoxically favours structural policy innovations which outline the contours of territorial governance.

Conclusions

This study shows that agrivoltaism is the result of interactions between techno-scientific actors in the energy and agricultural fields. However, its political backing in France does not promote dynamics of governance capable of bringing these two fields together. At the local level, the deployment of agrivoltaism has faced opposition, but it has also led to the organisation of territorial governance strategies involving actors and institutions from different sectors.
New approaches to idiopathic neutropenia in the era of clonal hematopoiesis
Authors: Ogbue Olisaemeka D. , Kewan Tariq , Bahaj Waled S. , Gurnari Carmelo , Visconte Valeria , Maciejewski Jaroslaw P.
Published: April 2023

Isolated chronic idiopathic neutropenia (CIN) is a rare disease with multiple contributing etiologies that must be ruled out before establishing a diagnosis. We studied clinical and molecular data of 238 consecutive adult patients with CIN. Autoimmune neutropenia was present in 28% of our cohort. In contrast, T cell-mediated neutropenia was the main underlying pathological mechanism among patients with T cell expansions, such as T-cell large granular lymphocytic leukemia (T-LGL) and T cell clonopathy of undetermined significance, found in 37% and 8% of cases, respectively. Patients with neutropenia also had hypogammaglobulinemia (6%) and/or monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (5%). NGS application has further broadened the spectrum of causes of CIN by including manifestations of clonal hematopoiesis, present in 12% of cases. TET2 (3%), TP53 (2%), and IDH1/IDH2 (2%) mutations were the most commonly found and were enriched in cases with T-LGL. We show that these clinico-molecular associations can be simultaneously present, complicating a proper diagnostic distinction within the broader entity of seemingly idiopathic neutropenia of autoimmune origin. Identification of etiologic culprits may also guide rational selection of therapies.
The development and effectiveness of web-based psychological capital intervention on the mental well-being of tourism workers during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Sumalrot Thanayot , Suwanwong Charin , Pimthong Saran , Surakarn Amaraporn , Chiangkhong Araya , Khunakorncharatphong Anon
Published: April 2023

The current COVID-19 situation has forced many tourism businesses to close. Tourism workers have suffered chronic stress, discouragement, despair, and failure to find solutions for their businesses, resulting in deteriorating mental health. A psychological capital intervention (PCI) is therefore deemed necessary as it promotes the mental well-being of tourism workers. This article reports the development of a web-based PCI for the mental well-being of tourism workers and an investigation of its effectiveness using a mixed-methods intervention design. A qualitative approach was used to develop the intervention by conducting interview techniques with 20 tourism entrepreneurs. A content analysis was carried out. The intervention was tested through an experimental research design. The sample comprised 600 tourism workers who undertook a web-based PCI. Data on their mental well-being were collected before the intervention and 1 month afterward and analyzed using ANCOVA. The research revealed that 4 themes are needed for the intervention: having a goal, tolerance of difficulties, inspiration from a role model, and the appropriate way of thinking. An effectiveness examination showed that the web-based PCI improves mental well-being scores significantly. In conclusion, this web-based PCI, which focuses on developing strengths, effectively improves the mental well-being of tourism workers facing difficulties during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Central government role in road infrastructure development and economic growth in the form of future study: the case of Indonesia
Authors: Nawir Daud , Bakri Muhammad Djaya , Syarif Iif Ahmad
Published: April 2023

Road infrastructure development in a country has been considered an important predictor of economic development and prosperity. Hence applying a systematic analysis approach, this study aims to project the future role of the central government in developing road infrastructure and its significance in the country's economic growth. The main data sources were the literature review and expert opinions in the form of self-administrative surveys and interviews. Besides, the Cross-impact Direct Influence (CDI) matrix was applied to formulate the questionnaire. For the data analysis purpose, MICMAC analysis and Scenario Wizard software were used. The MICMAC analysis results revealed the dominant role of 9 important/key variables in developing the Indonesian road infrastructure. Simultaneously 24 positive states of the important variables what identified via the Scenario-Wizard Method. Findings also depicted stronger consistency among the four scenarios. Whereas Scenario 1 showed the most ideal 9 key features related to Indonesia’s road infrastructure developments with a high intensity of concentrating the efforts on planning road infrastructure development in big cities and use of smart and modern technology. Moreover, presenting a group of constructs for developing road infrastructure and resultant economic growth in the country, the current study adds value to the existing literature.
Zebrafish ambra1b knockout reveals a novel role for Ambra1 in primordial germ cells survival, sex differentiation and reproduction
Authors: Fontana Camilla Maria , Terrin Francesca , Facchinello Nicola , Meneghetti Giacomo , Dinarello Alberto , Gambarotto Lisa , Zuccarotto Annalisa , Caichiolo Micol , Brocca Ginevra , Verin Ranieri , Nazio Francesca , Carnevali Oliana , Cecconi Francesco , Bonaldo Paolo , Dalla Valle Luisa
Published: April 2023

Background

AMBRA1 is an intrinsically disordered protein, working as a scaffold molecule to coordinate, by protein-protein interaction, many cellular processes, including autophagy, mitophagy, apoptosis and cell cycle progression. The zebrafish genome contains two ambra1 paralogous genes (a and b), both involved in development and expressed at high levels in the gonads. Characterization of the zebrafish paralogous genes mutant lines generated by CRISPR/Cas9 approach showed that ambra1b knockout leads to an all-male population.

Results

We demonstrated that the silencing of the ambra1b gene determines a reduction of primordial germ cells (PGCs), a condition that, in the zebrafish, leads to the development of all-male progeny. PGC reduction was confirmed by knockdown experiments and rescued by injection of ambra1b and human AMBRA1 mRNAs, but not ambra1a mRNA. Moreover, PGC loss was not rescued by injection with human AMBRA1 mRNA mutated in the CUL4-DDB1 binding region, thus suggesting that interaction with this complex is involved in PGC protection from loss. Results from zebrafish embryos injected with murine Stat3 mRNA and stat3 morpholino suggest that Ambra1b could indirectly regulate this protein through CUL4-DDB1 interaction. According to this, Ambra1+/− mice showed a reduced Stat3 expression in the ovary together with a low number of antral follicles and an increase of atretic follicles, indicating a function of Ambra1 in the ovary of mammals as well. Moreover, in agreement with the high expression of these genes in the testis and ovary, we found significant impairment of the reproductive process and pathological alterations, including tumors, mainly limited to the gonads.

Conclusions

By exploiting ambra1a and ambra1b knockout zebrafish lines, we prove the sub-functionalization between the two paralogous zebrafish genes and uncover a novel function of Ambra1 in the protection from excessive PGC loss, which seems to require binding with the CUL4-DDB1 complex. Both genes seem to play a role in the regulation of reproductive physiology.
Key issues for stakeholder engagement in the development of health and healthcare guidelines
Authors: Petkovic Jennifer , Magwood Olivia , Lytvyn Lyubov , Khabsa Joanne , Concannon Thomas W. , Welch Vivian , Todhunter-Brown Alex , Palm Marisha E. , Akl Elie A. , Mbuagbaw Lawrence , Arayssi Thurayya , Avey Marc T. , Marusic Ana , Morley Richard , Saginur Michael , Slingers Nevilene , Texeira Ligia , Ben Brahem Asma , Bhaumik Soumyadeep , Bou Akl Imad , Crowe Sally , Dormer Laura , Ekanem Comfort , Lang Eddy , Kianzad Behrang , Kuchenmüller Tanja , Moja Lorenzo , Pottie Kevin , Schünemann Holger , Tugwell Peter
Published: April 2023

Established in 2015, the Multi-Stakeholder Engagement (MuSE) Consortium is an international network of over 120 individuals interested in stakeholder engagement in research and guidelines. The MuSE group is developing guidance for stakeholder engagement in the development of health and healthcare guideline development. The development of this guidance has included multiple meetings with stakeholders, including patients, payers/purchasers of health services, peer review editors, policymakers, program managers, providers, principal investigators, product makers, the public, and purchasers of health services and has identified a number of key issues. These include: (1) Definitions, roles, and settings (2) Stakeholder identification and selection (3) Levels of engagement, (4) Evaluation of engagement, (5) Documentation and transparency, and (6) Conflict of interest management. In this paper, we discuss these issues and our plan to develop guidance to facilitate stakeholder engagement in all stages of the development of health and healthcare guideline development.
QEEG findings in adolescents complaining of headache
Authors: Elkholy Saly , Amer Hanan , Basheer Mye , Sabbah Asmaa
Published: April 2023

Background

Headache is one of the most common neurological symptoms reported in adolescence. The value of electroencephalography (EEG) in the diagnostics of patients with headache is controversial; however, quantitative EEG (QEEG) can clarify the pathophysiology of headache. Aim of the study was to assess QEEG and daily habits in adolescents with or without a clinical history of headache (according to answers of a screening questionnaire), to identify differences, attempt to explain them, and find possible correlations. This cross-sectional study included 89 adolescents; age 18–19 years at time of study, including 24 males. Headache was reported in 58 participant. All consenting subjects filled a questionnaire and underwent a conventional 30 min EEG examination. The mean frequency (Hz) and amplitude (µV) (absolute and relative) of beta (at F7and F8), theta (at C3 and C4), and alpha (at O1 and O2) band points were analyzed.

Results

A comparison of caffeine intake, and mobile phone use in cases versus controls showed no significant differences. QEEG showed statistically significant differences in the findings within alpha freq-O1, alpha freq-O2, and beta freq-F7 (P = 0.041, 0.003, and 0.05, respectively) in adolescents who had headache.

Conclusions

There were significant QEEG changes in the occipital regions and left frontal region in individuals with headache. It is recommended to perform more extensive statistical correlations between QEEG and clinical data should be targeted in future researches, to obtain a clearer view of the relationship between daily habits and the electrophysiology of headache.
Risk and prognostic factors in patients with congenital encephalocele
Authors: Mustafa Ahmed Mahmoud , AbdElaal Mohammed Ahmed , Almamoun Momen Mohamed , Saro Ahmed Salah Eldin , Ali Magda Mohamed
Published: April 2023

Background and objective

Encephaloceles are considered to be a spectrum of neural tube defects with a herniation of the brain and the meninges through a bony skull defect to the exterior.

Methods

This retrospective and prospective study was carried out on 30 patients with congenital encephaloceles either vault or basal. The risk factors and the prognostic factors were assessed.

Results

There was a statistically significant association between the content of the sac, outcome and seizures. There was a presence of neural tissue associated with worse outcome and seizures. There was a statistically significant association between the size of the sac and outcome with seizure. There was a statistically insignificant association between site of defect and parent consanguinity, folic acid intake, drug history, seizures, outcome, gender, family history and a statistically significant association between the site of the sac and hydrocephalus. There was a statistically significant association between the outcome and presence of Hydrocephalus, microcephaly and seizures.

Conclusions

There was statistically significant association between the worst outcome and presence of hydrocephalus, microcephaly and seizures, and there is correlation between site of the defect in occipitocervical region and development of hydrocephalus.
Overview of Hypothermia, Its Role in Neuroprotection, and the Application of Prophylactic Hypothermia in Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Trieu Christine , Rajagopalan Suman , Kofke W. Andrew , Cruz Navarro Jovany
Published: April 2023

The current standard of practice is to maintain normothermia in traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients despite the theoretical benefits of hypothermia and numerous animal studies with promising results. While targeted temperature management or induced hypothermia to support neurological function is recommended for a select patient population postcardiac arrest, similar guidelines have not been instituted for TBI. In this review, we will examine the pathophysiology of TBI and discuss the benefits and risks of induced hypothermia in this patient population. In addition, we provide an overview of the largest randomized controlled trials testing-induced hypothermia. Our literature review on hypothermia returned a myriad of studies and trials, many of which have inconclusive results. The aim of this review was to recognize the effects of hypothermia, summarize the latest trials, address the inconsistencies, and discuss future directions for the study of hypothermia in TBI.
Touching Ash in Vietnamese Diasporic Aesthetics
Authors: Pham David
Published: April 2023

Water has held a privileged place in theorizations of Vietnamese refugee being. Drawing from Ocean Vuong’s chapbook Burnings (2010) and novel On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous (2019) along with Tuan Andrew Nguyen’s film The Boat People (2020), this article traces an alternative genealogy of Vietnamese diasporic aesthetics based on the element of fire. Theorizing fire as another critical site of refugee passages, these works evince a pyric refugee onto-epistemology, one that conceives of fire and ash as explicit matter-metaphors of living and beauty that refuse the sensory diminution of racialized subjects as a result of US imperial and militaristic violence. Fire carries with it a destructive valence, and ash is taken as evidence of ruin and disaster. However, the explorations of fire and ash in both artists’ work not only attest to the various onto-epistemological unravelings signified by fire and ash but also conceive of the possibilities and openings for a refugee poiesis that emerges in the aftermath of destruction. Both Vuong and Nguyen stage haptic encounters with ash that wrestle with questions of sensation and subjectivity in the narration of personal and collective trauma. Paradoxically, these texts espouse the notion that any possibility of refugee futurity happens through contact with the subjunctive power of that which is insensible, ash.
Playing Pandemics
Authors: Gilbert Andrew L.
Published: April 2023

This essay analyzes the 2007 board game Pandemic in light of the COVID-19 global pandemic. The essay explores the connections between the reality of Pandemic and the play of COVID-19. To do this, it uses Ian Bogost’s interpretation of systems (both real and imagined) to invite a dialectic of reality and game simulation. The interaction of such systems, in a game whose theme became real, highlights a major tenet of game studies—the borders between reality and games are thin, blurred, and mobile, if they exist at all. Games, in their simulation of the real, are mimetic, and, in turn, reality has become gamified. The essay examines the board game and highlights its mechanics, which include cooperation and mitigation of risk. It also explores how the game and reality blur their borders in this instance of play, inviting further study into the ramifications of simulated games and the fantasy of the real.
Surface and Retreat
Authors: Zee Jerry
Published: April 2023

This essay is an experiment in figuring the pandemic through its reconfigurations of Chineseness. It departs from the Sinophobic cliché that conflates race, geopolitics, and epidemiology: the “China Virus” and its cloud of cognate slurs. It considers the slogan-slur as both an epithet and a conceptual and political challenge to imagine the pandemic as it is lived, still, as a disorientation of Asian and Asian American life, time, and death. The essay pauses at each of the three Lunar New Years of the pandemic, so far, to consider how Chineseness—as a national example, as a mode of racialization, and as a site of racial suspicion—might upset a US-based accounting of the pandemic, which frames it only through its arrival on American shores.
Fascist Culture, Critical Pedagogy, and Resistance in Pandemic Times
Authors: Giroux Henry A.
Published: April 2023

This essay offers an overview of the threats posed to our democratic and educational institutions by neoliberalism and neofascism and articulates a pedagogy of “educated hope” based on the work of Ernst Bloch, Paulo Freire, and James Baldwin to restore a sense of civic and democratic agency in the classroom and other public settings.
Theater in Lockdown, or a Performance-Studies Paradox
Authors: Fuchs Barbara
Published: April 2023

This essay discusses the challenges and opportunities of scholarly research during the pandemic, focusing on the author’s experience of researching and writing Theater of Lockdown: Digital and Distanced Performance in a Time of Pandemic (2021).
Orbitozygomatic Transsylvian and Subtemporal Transzygomatic Approaches for Clipping of Basilar Tip Aneurysms: 2-Dimensional Operative Video
Authors: Shenoy Varadaraya Satyanarayan , Sekhar Laligam N.
Published: April 2023

INDICATIONS: CORRIDOR AND EXPOSURE:

The orbitozygomatic transsylvian approach is ideal for basilar tip aneurysms (BTAs) ≤15 mm located at or above the level of posterior clinoid process (PCP), whereas for larger, low-lying BTA's with fetal posterior cerebral artery (PCA), the subtemporal transzygomatic approach is preferred. Both approaches expose the basilar tip area and structures in the interpeduncular fossa from an anterolateral angle and the lateral angle, respectively.

ANATOMIC ESSENTIALS: NEED FOR PREOPERATIVE PLANNING AND ASSESSMENT:

Aneurysm size and level, brainstem perforators, and PCA size (fetal or not) should be noted preoperatively.

ESSENTIAL STEPS OF THE PROCEDURE:

A.

Orbitozygomatic transsylvian approach

1.

Frontotemporal craniotomy with posterolateral orbitotomy.

2.

Extradural optic nerve decompression and anterior clinoidectomy.

3.

Transsylvian dissection and carotid-optic cistern decompression.

4.

Distal dural ring opening.

5.

Aneurysm exposure and clipping.

Or

B.

Subtemporal transzygomatic approach
1

1.

Frontotemporal incision with zygomatic osteotomy.

2.

Temporal lobe retraction, subtemporal dissection, and tentorial division.

3.

Cavernous sinus opening and dorsum sellae drilling.

4.

Petrous apex resection.

5.

Aneurysm exposure and clipping.

PITFALLS/AVOIDANCE OF COMPLICATIONS:

Complications such as cranial nerve injury, perforator stroke, aneurysm rupture, and hemorrhage can be prevented by neuromonitoring, avoiding temporary basilar occlusion for >10 minutes, use of transient adenosine arrest during clipping, and interposing rubber dam between perforators and aneurysm.
1

VARIANTS AND INDICATIONS OF THEIR USE:

Cavernous sinus opening with posterior clinoidectomy and dorsum sellae drilling may be performed if aneurysm neck is at or below the level of PCP.
1-7

The patient consented to the procedure.
Jak przegrać wojnę informacyjną? Komunikowanie polityczne Rosji
Authors: Długosz Sabina , Lukhtan Anastasiia
Published: April 2023

The chapter of the monograph analyzes Russia’s political communication during the invasion of Ukraine in 2022. It has been enriched with an introduction containing the characteristics of Russia’s political communication over the years. Next, the messages of the country’s political leaders Vladimir Putin and Sergey Lavrov are discussed. The chapter contains a study of the most important war messages a month before and during the invasion posted on the government websites of the Russian president and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which allowed the Authors to show a comprehensive approach to the subject of political communication. We discuss not only statements of political leaders regarding the war in Ukraine, but also interviews and political speeches, e.g. on Victory Day and other significant events. The chapter also contains a summary with key characteristics of Russia’s political communication as a provocateur of the invasion of Ukraine.
Potential of prospective medicinal plants of Rhizophoraceae from North Kalimantan, Indonesia
Authors: EGRA SAAT , KUSPRADINI HARLINDA , KUSUMA IRAWAN WIJAYA , BATUBARA IRMANIDA , IMRA IMRA , NURJANNAH NURJANNAH , WAHYUNI ETTY , YAMAUCHI KOSEI , MITSUNAGA TOHRU
Published: April 2023

Abstract. Egra S, Kuspradini H, Kusuma IW, Batubara I, Imra, Nurjannah, Wahyuni E, Yamauchi K, Mitsunaga T. 2023. Potential of prospective medicinal plants of Rhizophoraceaefrom North Kalimantan, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 24: 1346-1355. The abundance of mangrove forests in the equatorial region necessitates proper management, including the sustainable use of plant parts for functional products such as food, medicine, etc. This study aimed to assess the medicinal potential of five mangrove plants through phytochemical analysis, antibacterial assays against Streptococcus sobrinus, DPPH free radicals, and toxicity assay using Artemia salina L., Bruguiera parviflora(Roxb.) Wight and Arn. ex Griff, Bruguiera cylindrica(L.) Blume, Ceriops tagal(Perr.). The plants used were Ceriops tagal (Perr.) C.B. Rob, Rhizophora mucronata Poir, and Rhizophora apiculata Blume. Plant samples were extracted with n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and methanol in that order, and then the obtained plant extracts were subjected to various assays. The results showed that B. cylindrica wood and C. tagal leaf extract had the highest antibacterial activity, with more than 50% relative inhibition. The C. tagal leaf methanolic extract had the highest antioxidant activity, by 91% relative inhibition. Followed by R. mucronata wood ethyl acetate extract and B. parviflora leaf methanolic extract, with 87% and 86%, respectively. The highest value in the cytotoxicity assay was discovered in the B. cylindrica in the very strong category with an LC50value of 22.9 µg/mL. The present study revealed the potential of mangrove plant extracts to have strong antibacterial, cytotoxic, and antioxidant properties.
The last stand of a watershed forest in Southern Philippines: a case study of land cover and biodiversity
Authors: TABORA JOHN ARIES G. , ANCOG RICO C. , SANCHEZ PATRICIA ANN J. , ARBOLEDA MARK DONDI M. , LIT IRENEO L. , TIBURAN CRISTINO L.
Published: April 2023

Abstract. Tabora JAG, Ancog RC, Sanchez PAJ, Arboleda MDM, Lit IL Jr, Tiburan CL Jr. 2023. The last stand of a watershed forest in Southern Philippines: a case study of land cover and biodiversity. Biodiversitas 24: 1438-1449. Land Use Land Cover (LULC) maps using remote sensing technology became popular due to their contribution to spatial information useful for threat determination, biodiversity conservation, and landscape management. Our area of interest in this paper is a watershed in the southern Philippines with no published land cover maps and low biodiversity records. The watershed was a resettlement area originally covered by forest but slowly converted to an agricultural landscape. It was declared a watershed and forest reserve to conserve the primary forest. This paper shows the first spatiotemporal display of Land Use Land Cover change of the watershed to describe the potential threats to the landscape. The land cover change shows a 58% reduction in primary forest cover from 1973 to 2021. In contrast, the croplands have increased by 117% in the same time frame. The Land Use Dynamics Index hints at the landscape's socioeconomic and political situation in the past. In addition, the biodiversity surveys show multiple threatened organisms in the remaining forest. The biodiversity data distinguish between ecosystem types, while the threatened species mapping suggests potential wildlife refuges. The spatially explicit land cover and the location of the threatened species map suggest potential areas for conservation and management.
Water physicochemical characterization and phytoplankton diversity of arid region in Meggarine Lake, Ouargla, Algeria
Authors: MANAMANI RADIA , BENSOUILAH MOURAD
Published: April 2023

Abstract. Manamani R, Bensouilah M. 2023. Water physicochemical characterization and phytoplankton diversity of arid region in Meggarine Lake, Ouargla, Algeria. Biodiversitas 24: 1569-1579. The present study aims to examine the physicochemical parameters, e.g., temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH, conductivity, salinity, nitrites, nitrates, orthophosphates, suspended matter, and chlorophyll (a) content) of Meggarine Lake, located in the Saharian region (Ouargla). Also, to establish the relation with phytoplankton's seasonal dynamics and diversification. From November through May over four years (2016-2019), a spatial and spatiotemporal investigation of phytoplankton composition was conducted. The algae and water samples were collected, preserved, and analyzed from four different sites using standard methods. Canonical Correlation Analysis (CCA) was recorded to explain the correlation between phytoplankton and physicochemical parameters. The results revealed a link between these planktonic populations and their physicochemical properties. Observing the morphoanatomical characters of the phytoplankton genera collected in Meggarine Lake allowed us to identify 29 genera. Diatoms (15 genera), dinoflagellates (03 genera), and cyanobacteria (11 genera) were separated into three groups. The distribution of phytoplankton showed a very high algal density in 2018, with a total of 9,995 cells/L, followed by 2019 and 2017, where the total densities were 5,332 and 5,118 cells/L, respectively. A low total density value was recorded (3,157.067 cells/L) in 2016. The highest value of phytoplankton was noted during the spring season, with 19,778 cells/L. Statistical analyses showed different correlations between the physicochemical parameters and the spatiotemporal variation of algae.
Medial Swivel Dislocation of the Talonavicular Joint Due to High-Energy Trauma: A Case Report
Authors: Sakharkar Nilesh , Tathe Pankaj , Garg Rohit , Adewar Aniket , Giri Vishal , Sakhare Kuber
Published: April 2023

Introduction: Medial swivel type of talonavicular dislocation is a very rare injury; caused by high-velocity trauma. This injury occurs due to forceful adduction of the forefoot without inversion of the foot; causing talonavicular joint to dislocate medially while calcaneum swivels under the talus with intact talocalcaneal interosseous ligament and calcaneocuboid joint. Case Report: We report a case of 38-year-old male who had medial swivel injury to his right foot, sustaining a high-velocity road traffic accident with no other injuries. Conclusion: The occurrences, features, reduction maneuver, and follow-up protocol of medial swivel dislocation rare injury have been presented. Even though it is a rare injury, good outcomes are still achievable with proper evaluation and treatment. Keywords: Medial swivel dislocation, talonavicular joint, subtalar subluxation.
Bilateral Medial and Lateral Discoid Menisci: A Case Report
Authors: Kato Taisei , Kaneda Kazuya , Harato Kengo , Otani Toshiro , Morioka Hideo
Published: April 2023

Introduction: A discoid meniscus is a typical anatomical variation of the knee. There are several cases of either lateral or medial discoid menisci; however, their combination is rare. We describe a rare instance of bilateral discoid medial and lateral menisci. Case Report: A 14-year-old boy who developed left knee pain after twisting his knee at school was referred to our hospital. He had limited extension of –10°, lateral clicking, and pain on the McMurray test in the left knee and complained of slight clicks in the right knee. Magnetic resonance imaging results for both knees revealed discoid medial and lateral menisci. Surgery was performed on the symptomatic left knee. Arthroscopically, a Wrisberg-type discoid lateral meniscus and an incomplete-type medial discoid meniscus were confirmed. The symptomatic lateral meniscus was saucerized and sutured and only the asymptomatic medial meniscus was observed. The patient was doing well 24 months after surgery. Conclusion: We report a rare case of bilateral medial and lateral discoid menisci. Keywords: Discoid lateral meniscus, discoid medial meniscus, bilateral discoid menisci, arthroscopic surgery.
Role of Er3+ ion concentration on the Goos–Hänchen shift in an Er3+-doped YAG crystal
Authors: Chen Tong-Zhen , Shi Zhen-Yu , Ai Le , Shui Tao , Yang Wen-Xing
Published: April 2023

We investigate the effect of doped Er3+ ion concentration on the
Goos–Hänchen (GH) shift of a reflected beam in a
Kretschmann–Raether structure, where an Er3+-doped yttrium aluminum garnet crystal
is employed as the substrate. Due to the difference in the electric
dipole moment and spontaneous emission decay induced by Er3+ ion concentration, the reflected GH
shift is sensitively dependent upon Er3+ ion concentration. Furthermore, it is
demonstrated that the intensity and detuning of the control field have
different effects on the magnitude, sign, and position of the GH shift
under different concentrations of Er3+ ion. Therefore, our scheme may
provide a basis for selecting suitable concentrations to realize
high-performance optical devices in future integrated systems.
High power Ho:Y2O3 ceramic laser with controllable output intensity profile at 2.1 µm
Authors: Ren Chuanyong , Ma Ke , Wang Fei , Shen Deyuan , Wang Jun , Zhu Heyuan , Tang Dingyuan
Published: April 2023

We report on a high-power Ho:Y2O3 ceramic laser at 2.1 µm with controllable output beam profile ranging from LG01 donut, flat-top to TEM00 mode using a simple two-mirror resonator. In-band pumped at 1943nm using a Tm fiber laser beam shaped via a coupling optics comprising a capillary fiber and lens-combination to achieve distributed pump absorption in Ho:Y2O3 and hence selective excitation of the target mode, the laser yields 29.7 W of LG01 donut, 28.0 W of crater-like, 27.7 W of flat-top and 33.5 W of TEM00 mode output for absorbed pump power of 53.5 W, 56.2 W, 57.3 W and 58.2 W, respectively, corresponding to a slope efficiency of 58.5%, 54.3%, 53.8% and 61.2%. This is, to the best of our knowledge, the first demonstration of laser generation with continuously tunable output intensity profile at ∼2 µm wavelength region.
Topological edge and corner states in honeycomb-kagome photonic crystals
Authors: Shao Shuai , Liang Li , Hu Jun-Hui , Poo Yin , Wang Hai-Xiao
Published: April 2023

We systematically study the first- and second-order band topologies, which are tied to the pseudospin and valley degree of freedoms (DOFs), in honeycomb-kagome photonic crystals (HKPCs). We first demonstrate the quantum spin Hall phase as the first-order pseudospin-induced topology in HKPCs by observing the partial pseudospin-momentum locked edge states. By employing the topological crystalline index, we also discover the multiple corner states emerging in the hexagon-shaped supercell as the manifestation of the second-order pseudospin-induced topology in HKPCs. Next, by gapping the Dirac points, a lower band gap associated with the valley DOF emerges, in which the valley-momentum locked edge states are observed as the first-order valley-induced topology. Such HKPCs without inversion symmetry are proved to be Wannier-type second-order topological insulators, which manifested with valley-selective corner states. Additionally, we also discuss the symmetry breaking effect on pseudospin-momentum locked edge states. Our work realizes both pseudospin-induced and valley-induced topologies in a higher-order manner and thus provides more flexibility in manipulating electromagnetic waves, which may find potential applications in topological routings.
Broadband binary-reflection-phase metasurfaces with undistorted transmission wavefront via mirror symmetry
Authors: Lin Shuai , Luo Hao , He Hainan , Chu Hongchen , Lai Yun
Published: April 2023

In this work, we report the realization of broadband binary-reflection-phase metasurfaces that simultaneously exhibit undistorted transmission wavefront. Such a unique functionality is bestowed by leveraging mirror symmetry in the metasurface design. Under the normal incidence of waves polarized along the mirror surface, a broadband binary-phase pattern with π phase difference is induced in the cross-polarized reflection, while the co-polarized transmission and reflection are unaffected by the binary-phase pattern. Consequently, the cross-polarized reflection can be flexibly manipulated by designing the binary-phase pattern, without distorting the wavefront in transmission. The phenomena of reflected-beam splitting and undistorted transmission wavefront are hereby experimentally validated in a broad bandwidth from 8 GHz to 13 GHz. Our findings reveal a unique mechanism to realize independent manipulation of reflection with undistorted transmission wavefront in a broad spectrum, which has potential implications in meta-domes and reconfigurable intelligent surfaces.