bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ruling by Wife
Authors: Menshawy Mustafa
Published: July 2023

Research on the powers or roles of first ladies in authoritarian Arab states suffers from two gaps. First, there are always attempts to homogenize women under which the president’s spouse is simply subsumed within categories such as “Arab women,” “Muslim women,” or “Egyptian women.” Second, literature explaining the dynamics of authoritarian durability has mainly focused on what is institutional, for instance, the army, legislature, and political parties. This article focuses on a single woman as part of the toolbox authoritarian leaders use to maintain power and as part of their political expediency. It uses quantitative and qualitative methods to track the progression of the roles of former Egyptian president Hosni Mubarak’s wife, Suzanne Mubarak, and the manifestations of these roles in the state media throughout Mubarak’s rule (1981–2011). The frame analysis of 1,339 articles found this progression to be linear; that is, Suzanne Mubarak moved from traditional ceremonial roles in the 1980s to policy-oriented ones in the 1990s to political roles, even acting as “copresident” in the 2000s. Through interviews, the data-based findings are contextualized within historically conditioned challenges facing the regime, such as relations with Islamists, the adoption of neoliberal economic policies, and Hosni Mubarak’s frail health in the final years of his rule.
David L. Stocum (1939-2023)
Authors: Crawford Karen , Del Rio-Tsonis Katia , Cameron Jo Ann , Tanaka Elly
Published: July 2023

David L. Stocum, a scientist whose contributions to and impact on the field of regeneration and developmental biology are legendary, and likely more pervasive than many know, passed away on 21 April 2023. His illustrious career, exploring and characterizing the fundamentals of limb regeneration in salamanders, spanned nearly 60 years. Much of his work dissecting the tissue-level logic of regeneration established the framework for the molecular investigation of regeneration taking place today. His generous spirit as mentor and colleague, encyclopedic understanding of the literature, and enthusiasm for each new discovery and its place within the larger picture of scientific understanding distinguishes him as a giant in the history of regenerative biology. David's career path, the transformative role his teachers and mentors played along the way, and his own role in inspiring the next generation of researchers speaks strongly to the importance and power of basic education to society.
Brønsted Base-Catalyzed Reductive Deimination of α-Iminoketones
Authors: Kondoh Azusa , Inoue Seitaro , Ojima Rihaku , Terada Masahiro
Published: July 2023

An unprecedented reductive deimination of α-iminoketones derived from benzils was developed under Brønsted base catalysis. Treatment of α-iminoketones with silanethiols in the presence of a catalytic amount of P2-tBu provided the corresponding arylbenzylketones in good yields. This is a rare example of the direct transformation of an imine moiety into a methylene moiety.
Vertebral CT attenuation outperforms standard clinical fracture risk prediction tools in detecting osteoporotic disease in lung cancer screening participants
Authors: Patel Nikita , Dahl Katrina , O'Rourke Rachael , Williamson Anne , Chatfield Mark D , Fong Kwun M , Yang Ian A , Marshall Henry M
Published: July 2023

Objectives:

Compare accuracy of vertebral Hounsfield Unit (VHU) attenuation and FRAX and Garvan Fracture Risk Calculators in identifying low bone mineral density (BMD) and prevalent vertebral compression fractures (VF) in lung cancer screening (LCS) participants.

Methods:

Baseline CT scans from a single site of the International Lung Screen Trial were analysed. BMD was measured using VHU (of the most caudally imaged vertebra) and quantitative CT (QCT) (low BMD defined as <110 HU and <120 mg/cm3, respectively). Prevalent VF were classified semi-quantitatively. 10-year FRAX and Garvan fracture risks were calculated using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) femoral neck T-score where available. Discrimination was assessed by area under receiver-operating characteristic curves (AUC).

Results:

535 LCS participants were included; 41% had low VHU-BMD, 56% had low QCT-BMD and 10% had ≥1 VF with ≥25% vertebral height loss. VHU demonstrated 94% specificity and 70% sensitivity in identifying low QCT-BMD. VHU was superior to fracture risk tools in discriminating low QCT-BMD (AUC: VHU 0.94 vs FRAX 0.67, Garvan 0.64 [p < 0.05]). In 64 participants with recent DXA scans, VHU was superior to FRAXT-score and GarvanT-score in discriminating low QCT-BMD (AUC: VHU 0.99, FRAXT-score 0.71, GarvanT-score 0.71 [p < 0.05]). VHU was non-inferior to FRAXT-score and GarvanT-score in discriminating VF (AUC: VHU 0.65, FRAXT-score 0.53, GarvanT-score 0.61).

Conclusions:

VHU outperforms clinical risk calculators in detecting low BMD and discriminates prevalent VF equally well as risk calculators with T-scores, yet is significantly simpler to perform.

Advances in knowledge:

VHU measurement could aid osteoporosis assessment in high-risk smokers undergoing LCS.
AI for PET image reconstruction
Authors: Reader Andrew J , Pan Bolin
Published: July 2023

Image reconstruction for positron emission tomography (PET) has been developed over many decades, with advances coming from improved modelling of the data statistics and improved modelling of the imaging physics. However, high noise and limited spatial resolution have remained issues in PET imaging, and state-of-the-art PET reconstruction has started to exploit other medical imaging modalities (such as MRI) to assist in noise reduction and enhancement of PET’s spatial resolution. Nonetheless, there is an ongoing drive towards not only improving image quality, but also reducing the injected radiation dose and reducing scanning times. While the arrival of new PET scanners (such as total body PET) is helping, there is always a need to improve reconstructed image quality due to the time and count limited imaging conditions. Artificial intelligence (AI) methods are now at the frontier of research for PET image reconstruction. While AI can learn the imaging physics as well as the noise in the data (when given sufficient examples), one of the most common uses of AI arises from exploiting databases of high-quality reference examples, to provide advanced noise compensation and resolution recovery. There are three main AI reconstruction approaches: (i) direct data-driven AI methods which rely on supervised learning from reference data, (ii) iterative (unrolled) methods which combine our physics and statistical models with AI learning from data, and (iii) methods which exploit AI with our known models, but crucially can offer benefits even in the absence of any example training data whatsoever. This article reviews these methods, considering opportunities and challenges of AI for PET reconstruction.
Η γλωσσική ενίσχυση στο νηπιαγωγείο μέσα σε περιβάλλον γλωσσικής ετερότητας και η σχέση της με την ομαλή μετάβαση των αλλοδαπών μαθητών στο δημοτικό σχολείο
Authors: Τρίκου Παναγιώτα
Published: July 2023

Η μετάβαση από το νηπιαγωγείο στο δημοτικό σχολείο αποτελεί μεγάλη πρόκληση για όλα τα παιδιά. Η πρόκληση της μετάβασης γίνεται ακόμη μεγαλύτερη για τα παιδιά που προέρχονται από κοινωνικά ευπαθείς ομάδες, καθώς περιλαμβάνει την απόκτηση απαιτούμενων εκπαιδευτικών εμπειριών και την πρόσβαση στον εγγραμματισμό. Στο πλαίσιο αυτό, το πρόγραμμα Heterogenität und Literalität im Übergang vom Elementar- in den Primärbereich im europäischen Vergleich - HeLiE (ελεύθερη μετάφραση: Ετερότητα και Εγγραμματισμός στη μετάβαση από την προσχολική στη δημοτική εκπαίδευση μέσα σε ένα πλαίσιο ευρωπαϊκής σύγκρισης) στο Πανεπιστήμιο της Κολωνίας στη Γερμανία, πραγματοποίησε εθνογραφικές έρευνες πεδίου σε διάφορα ευρωπαϊκά εκπαιδευτικά συστήματα με σκοπό την παρατήρηση παιδιών με μεταναστευτικό υπόβαθρο στην σχολική τους καθημερινότητα. Tο πρόγραμμα HeLiE επηρέασε σημαντικά την παρούσα έρευνα, η οποία μελετά το κομμάτι της ελληνικής σχολικής πραγματικότητας. Πιο συγκεκριμένα, μέσα από λεπτομερείς εθνογραφικές περιγραφές οι οποίες αναλύονται με την Ενιαία Θεμελιωμένη Θεωρία (Grounded Theory), περιγράφεται η καθημερινότητα παιδιών με μεταναστευτικό υπόβαθρο σε ένα δημόσιο νηπιαγωγείο στη Ρόδο, καθώς και οι γλωσσικές δραστηριότητες που διεξήχθησαν σε αυτό. Ερευνάται αν η ετερότητα του μαθητικού δυναμικού λαμβάνεται υπόψη στη διαμόρφωση του διδακτικού έργου στο νηπιαγωγείο κι αν αξιοποιείται το πολιτισμικό κεφάλαιο των μαθητών κατά την εκπαιδευτική διαδικασία. Επίσης καταγράφονται οι απόψεις, οι πρακτικές και οι διαδράσεις σχολείου, εκπαιδευτικών, μαθητών με μεταναστευτικό υπόβαθρο και των γονέων τους αναφορικά με αυτές, την εκπαιδευτική πραγματικότητα και τη μετάβαση από τη μία βαθμίδα στην άλλη. Τα ίδια παιδιά τα ακολουθήσαμε και στην Α΄ τάξη του δημοτικού σχολείου, ώστε να διερευνηθεί η συσχέτιση της γλωσσικής ενίσχυσης, αλλά και της γενικής προσαρμογής στο περιβάλλον του νηπιαγωγείου, με τη μετάβαση στο δημοτικό σχολείο.
On the Relation between Translations and the Reception of the Children’s and Household Tales (Kinder- und Hausmärchen) by Brothers Grimm in Poland
Authors: Eliza Pieciul-Karmińska
Published: July 2023

The fairy tales by the Brothers Grimm are the most often translated work of German literature. All over the world these tales are read in translations that are not identical to the original. In Poland, these important texts are also read in various versions translated into Polish, which raises a question of how the form and content of different translations and adaptations may influence the reception of these German tales. Referring to important studies by folklorists Helena Kapełuś and Dorota Simonides, the author of the article indicates which research topics should be continued and deepened in the field of the Grimm research in Poland.
Scores for Multivariate Distributions and Level Sets
Authors: Meng Xiaochun , Taylor James W. , Ben Taieb Souhaib , Li Siran
Published: July 2023

Evaluating Forecasts of Multivariate Probability Distributions

Forecasts of multivariate probability distributions are required for a variety of applications. The availability of a score for a forecast is important for evaluating prediction accuracy, as well as estimating model parameters. In “Scores for Multivariate Distributions and Level Sets,” X. Meng, J. W. Taylor, S. Ben Taieb, and S. Li propose a theoretical framework that encompasses several existing scores for multivariate distributions and can be used to generate new scores. In some multivariate contexts, a forecast of a level set is needed, such as a density level set for anomaly detection or the level set of the cumulative distribution, which can be used as a measure of risk. This motivates consideration of scores for level sets. The authors show that such scores can be obtained by decomposing the scores developed for multivariate distributions. A simple numerical algorithm is presented to compute the scores, and practical applications are provided in the contexts of conditional value-at-risk for financial data and the combination of expert macroeconomic forecasts.
Motives For Using Reels Instagram Social Media Among Children
Authors: Lathifah Az Zuharah Lathifah Az Zuharah , Ade Putranto Prasetyo Wijiharto Tunggali Ade
Published: July 2023

Technology that develops from time to time makes a person more active in using social media. Cellular phone companies are also developing various services (4G, 5G, and others) to support these needs. Social media has become an integral part of everyday life among children, where they can share information or do other things for fun. This is a necessity for them. Reels Instagram is one type of social media that is currently widely used by children. This paper aims to look at the pattern of using Instagram among teenagers. This study uses a qualitative descriptive method, with five active teenagers who use Instagram as samples or informants. Data collection techniques in this study were observation, interviews and document collection in the form of photos and other files. From the results of the study it can be concluded that Instagram is a social media that is able to meet one's needs, namely cognitive, affective, personal integration, social integration and imagination needs.
The Coexistence of Postpartum Depression with Infantile Colic and Sleep Problems
Authors: GÜNEŞ Bülent , YALÇIN S. Songül
Published: July 2023

ABSTRACT
Objective: This study aims to examine the factors that can cause postpartum depression (PPD) form others who gave birth at Şan Med Hospital in Şanlıurfa.
Materials and Methods: The study was performed on volunteer mother-baby couples who were born in Şanlıurfa Şan Med Hospital and were admitted to Şan Med Hospital Pediatrics Polyclinic between September 2017 and December 2017. Participants were asked to provide some information about themselves and their babies, as well as their babies’ crying and sleeping patterns. The Edinburgh postpartum depression scale (EPDS) was administered to the mothers.
Results: It was determined that the frequency of PPD increased by 2.73-folds for mothers whose babies cried excessively, and by 2.79-folds for the mothers whose babies had unconsolable crying/restlessness lasting 2-3 hours a day. The results indicated that the risk of PPD was 6.86-folds higher in mothers of infants who awoke frequently, as compared to the mothers of infants who had regular sleep patterns.
Conclusion: Infantile colic and prolonged crying are factors in the incidence of maternal depression.
Cracked tooth syndrome: a review of the literature
Authors: Warreth Abdulhadi
Published: July 2023

Cracked tooth syndrome (CTS) is a term used to describe a type of incomplete fracture of posterior teeth. CTS is a common clinical finding, so dentists are likely to encounter patients experiencing CTS. However, diagnosis is not straightforward and may be difficult because its signs and symptoms may resemble those arising from other dental conditions. Nevertheless, early detection of CTS is critical to the success of its management. Crack propagation can be hindered when it is at an early stage before reaching the pulp, thereby potentially leading to an improved prognosis. This article provides an overview of CTS, and sheds light on its clinical examination, diagnosis, management, and approaches for prevention. This knowledge will enable dentists to recognize CTS early and manage it appropriately.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: Dentists must be well prepared to identify CTS early and provide patients with the most appropriate treatment.
Protecting the UK's national infrastructure
Authors: Egglestone Tom
Published: July 2023

Of all the industries targeted by cyber attackers, critical national infrastructure (CNI) is among the most concerning. The potential disruption not just to business but to our daily lives and even our physical safety means that governments, including the UK, are taking the threat seriously. But it's also important that individual organisations working in this area ramp up their cyber security and adopt a position of cyber resilience.
Why zero trust should start at the endpoint
Authors: Harrison Henry
Published: July 2023

The zero-trust concept is rapidly growing in popularity, particularly with the rise of hybrid working practices and the continued erosion of the traditional network perimeter. But where do you start when implementing a zero-trust strategy?
Why cyber insurance has an image problem
Authors: Gardner Sharif
Published: July 2023

For many organisations, cyber insurance is a tricky subject. The cost can be a disincentive, the process of insuring can be complex and it seems there is an increasing list of circumstances under which insurers will not pay out. But given the threats that all organisations face, can you really risk not being insured?
Laser frequency noise correction in LFM-based interferometric fiber-optic hydrophone array
Authors: Zhao Mengyuan , Mao Ying , Wang Zexu , Cen Qizhuang , Yin Feifei , Xu Kun , Dai Yitang
Published: July 2023

In this paper, we propose a novel time-division multiplexed (TDM) array for a large-scale interferometric fiber-optic hydrophone system, in which we introduce a power-optimized reference probe and effectively reduce the additional white noise while correcting for light source frequency noise. Laser frequency noise usually introduces appreciable phase noise during demodulation of interferometric fiber-optic hydrophones. In the previous means, one would introduce an additional probe isolated from the environment in sensor array, and use it as a reference to calibrate the demodulation results of the other actual sensors. However, while correcting, the reference probe also introduces a large white noise. In our array, the echo of the reference probe is higher than the other sensors, thus solving this problem. The novel array design is applied to our previously proposed fiber-optic hydrophone based on a linear frequency modulated (LFM) light source. Experiments show that the deterioration of phase noise floor caused by additional white noise is improved from at least 3 dB originally to within 1 dB. This paper analyzes the factors that need to be concerned for the successful implementation of correction algorithms in hydrophone systems based on LFM sources. Particular focus is given to the impact of the power optimization of reference probe on the white noise and the corrected phase noise. Our proposal allows a significant relaxation of the demanding linewidth requirement for interferometric hydrophone. It is shown that laser with linewidth of 338.06 MHz can replace that with 1.417 kHz in our new system, while achieves the same demodulation noise floor.
Electrically controllable broadband reflective linear cross-polarization conversion based on liquid crystals
Authors: Deng Guangsheng , Kou Zhifei , Guo Aoran , Yin Zhiping , Li Ying , Yang Jun , Lu Hongbo , Hu Minggang , Li Jian
Published: July 2023

This paper presents an electrically controllable reflective broadband linear polarization (LP) converter based on liquid crystals (LCs) for cross-polarization conversion (CPC) in the terahertz frequency range. The proposed structure achieves a high polarization conversion ratio (PCR) exceeding 0.9 within the frequency range of 236.8 - 269.6 GHz. A vital feature of this design is the dynamic control of polarization conversion by re-orienting the nematic liquid crystal molecules through voltage bias switching between ‘on’ and ‘off’ states, allowing for precise manipulation of cross-polarized and co-polarized reflected waves. Experimental results validate the simulation outcomes, demonstrating excellent agreement. In contrast to conventional reflective polarization converters with fixed frequency responses, the proposed electrically controllable polarization conversion offers significant potential in imaging and optical communications.
Mueller transform matrix neural network for underwater polarimetric dehazing imaging
Authors: Gao Jie , Wang Guochen , Chen Yubin , Wang Xin , Li Yuhua , Chew Khian-Hooi , Chen Rui-Pin
Published: July 2023

Polarization dehazing imaging has been used to restore images degraded by scattering media, particularly in turbid water environments. While learning-based approaches have shown promise in improving the performance of underwater polarimetric dehazing, most current networks rely heavily on data-driven techniques without consideration of physics principles or real physical processes. This work proposes, what we believe to be, a novel Mueller transform matrix network (MTM-Net) for underwater polarimetric image recovery that considers the physical dehazing model adopting the Mueller matrix method, significantly improving the recovery performance. The network is trained with a loss function that combines content and pixel losses to facilitate detail recovery, and is sped up with the inverse residuals and channel attention structure without decreasing image recovery quality. A series of ablation experiment results and comparative tests confirm the performance of this method with a better recovery effect than other methods. These results provide deeper understanding of underwater polarimetric dehazing imaging and further expand the functionality of polarimetric dehazing method.
Residual current under the combined effect of carrier envelope phase and chirp: phase shift and peak enhancement
Authors: Zhang Xiaoxue , Du Henglei , Wang Wenkang , Guo Huicheng , Liu Chengpu
Published: July 2023

We theoretically investigate the residual current of linearly polarized light incident on graphene under the combined effect of carrier envelope phase and chirp. Phase shift and peak residual current enhancement are significantly obtained. Phase shift is the natural result of introducing a linear chirp in the presence of carrier envelope phase. By comparing the residual current integrated along the kx direction for different chirp rates and carrier envelope phases, the enhancement can be observed from two regions, where multiphoton interference is involved. By increasing the chirp rate, the light-graphene interaction turns from a non-perturbative to a perturbative regime. Thus the results of the combined effect can help to find suitable parameters to study regime transition and control of electronic dynamics. We expect that this study contributes to the signal processing at optical frequencies and to the development of optoelectronic integrated device applications.
High-fidelity and high-robustness free-space ghost transmission in complex media with coherent light source using physics-driven untrained neural network
Authors: Peng Yang , Xiao Yin , Chen Wen
Published: July 2023

It is well recognized that it is challenging to realize high-fidelity and high-robustness ghost transmission through complex media in free space using coherent light source. In this paper, we report a new method to realize high-fidelity and high-robustness ghost transmission through complex media by generating random amplitude-only patterns as 2D information carriers using physics-driven untrained neural network (UNN). The random patterns are generated to encode analog signals (i.e., ghost) without any training datasets and labeled data, and are used as information carriers in a free-space optical channel. Coherent light source modulated by the random patterns propagates through complex media, and a single-pixel detector is utilized to collect light intensities at the receiving end. A series of optical experiments have been conducted to verify the proposed approach. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method can realize high-fidelity and high-robustness analog-signal (ghost) transmission in complex environments, e.g., around a corner, or dynamic and turbid water. The proposed approach using the designed physics-driven UNN could open an avenue for high-fidelity free-space ghost transmission through complex media.
High-speed chaos-based secure optical communications over 130-km multi-core fiber
Authors: Wang Zhongyang , Shen Lei , Yang Min , Tang Ziyi , Zhang Lei , Yan Changkun , Yang Liubo , Wang Ruichun , Chu Jun , Du Jing , Wang Jian
Published: July 2023

Chaotic optical communication is of great significance for secure data transmission. Despite rapid development over the decades, high-speed (>100 Gbps) and long-distance (>100 km) chaotic optical communication in a single fiber is still full of challenges. Here, we propose and experimentally demonstrate high-speed and long-distance chaos-based secure optical communications using mutual injection of semiconductor lasers and space-division multiplexing (SDM) techniques. The encrypted signals are transmitted through all seven core channels of the multi-core fiber (MCF), which effectively expands the aggregate transmission capacity of a single fiber. A pair of source and synchronization devices based on mutual injection of semiconductor lasers are employed to effectively encrypt and decrypt signals. Chaos-based secure optical communications with 70-Gbps on-off keying (OOK) and 140-Gbps quadrature phase-shift keying (QPSK) signals over a 130-km MCF are successfully demonstrated in the experiment with favorable performance. The demonstration may pave the way for future ultrahigh capacity and ultra-long distance chaotic optical communications by fully exploiting multi-dimensional resources of light waves, including the spatial dimension.
Broadband dispersion spectroscopy using interferometric phase modulation under background light suppression
Authors: Song Wenqing , Fujiwara Kokoro , Zhang Zheyuan , Morichika Ikki , Ashihara Satoshi
Published: July 2023

This Letter presents a dispersion spectroscopy method that achieves simultaneous detection of molecular vibrational dispersion over a broad spectral range. The method is implemented with an infrared mode-locked laser, a dispersion-compensated Michelson interferometer, and a multichannel detector. Synchronous detection under interferometric phase modulation near the destructive interference condition is employed to achieve a high signal-to-noise ratio. We successfully demonstrate the method by measuring the dispersion of carbon monoxide gas, achieving a noise-equivalent dispersion of 1.3 × 10−8 cm and a corresponding noise-equivalent absorbance of 6.5 × 10−4 with a measurement time of 2.2 s.
Orthogonal analysis of space–time crystals
Authors: Deck-Léger Zoé-Lise , Bahrami Amir , Li Zhiyu , Caloz Christophe
Published: July 2023

This paper presents a space–time-wise orthogonal analysis of space–time crystals. This analysis provides a solution consisting of a pair of explicit parametric equations that result from a separate application of the Bloch–Floquet theorem in the (orthogonal) directions of space and time. Compared with previous approaches, this solution offers the benefits of greater simplicity, clearer emphasis on space–time duality, and deeper physical insight.
Calibration method for a multi-focus microscopic 3D imaging system
Authors: Chen Liming , Xiang Wang , Zhang Song
Published: July 2023

This Letter presents a novel, to the best of our knowledge, method to calibrate multi-focus microscopic structured-light three-dimensional (3D) imaging systems with an electrically adjustable camera focal length. We first leverage the conventional method to calibrate the system with a reference focal length f0. Then we calibrate the system with other discrete focal lengths f
i
by determining virtual features on a reconstructed white plane using f0. Finally, we fit the polynomial function model using the discrete calibration results for f
i
. Experimental results demonstrate that our proposed method can calibrate the system consistently and accurately.
Accelerating finite-energy generalized Olver beams
Authors: Zhu Jie , Wang Taofen , Zhu Kaicheng
Published: July 2023

We propose a new, to the best of our knowledge, and very general finite power beam solution to the paraxial wave equation (PWE) in Cartesian coordinates by introducing an exponential differential operator on the existing PWE solution and term it as the “finite-energy generalized Olver beam.” Applying the analytical expressions for the field distributions, we study the evolution of intensity, centroid, and variance of these beams during free-space propagation. Our findings demonstrate that these new beams exhibit a diffraction-resistant profile along a curved trajectory when specific beam conditions are met. Using numerical methods, we further demonstrate the ability to adjust the self-accelerating degree, sidelobe profile, and stability of the central mainlobe by manipulating the transforming parameters. This research presents a versatile approach to controlling beam properties and holds promise for advancing applications in various fields.
Noncanonical contribution of microglial transcription factor NR4A1 to post-stroke recovery through TNF mRNA destabilization
Authors: Liu Pinyi , Chen Yan , Zhang Zhi , Yuan Zengqiang , Sun Jian-Guang , Xia Shengnan , Cao Xiang , Chen Jian , Zhang Cun-Jin , Chen Yanting , Zhan Hui , Jin Yuexinzi , Bao Xinyu , Gu Yue , Zhang Meijuan , Xu Yun
Published: July 2023

Microglia-mediated neuroinflammation is involved in various neurological diseases, including ischemic stroke, but the endogenous mechanisms preventing unstrained inflammation is still unclear. The anti-inflammatory role of transcription factor nuclear receptor subfamily 4 group A member 1 (NR4A1) in macrophages and microglia has previously been identified. However, the endogenous mechanisms that how NR4A1 restricts unstrained inflammation remain elusive. Here, we observed that NR4A1 is up-regulated in the cytoplasm of activated microglia and localizes to processing bodies (P-bodies). In addition, we found that cytoplasmic NR4A1 functions as an RNA-binding protein (RBP) that directly binds and destabilizes Tnf mRNA in an N6-methyladenosine (m6A)-dependent manner. Remarkably, conditional microglial deletion of Nr4a1 elevates Tnf expression and worsens outcomes in a mouse model of ischemic stroke, in which case NR4A1 expression is significantly induced in the cytoplasm of microglia. Thus, our study illustrates a novel mechanism that NR4A1 posttranscriptionally regulates Tnf expression in microglia and determines stroke outcomes.
The ortholog of human ssDNA-binding protein SSBP3 influences neurodevelopment and autism-like behaviors in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Salim Safa , Hussain Sadam , Banu Ayesha , Gowda Swetha B. M. , Ahammad Foysal , Alwa Amira , Pasha Mujaheed , Mohammad Farhan
Published: July 2023

1p32.3 microdeletion/duplication is implicated in many neurodevelopmental disorders-like phenotypes such as developmental delay, intellectual disability, autism, macro/microcephaly, and dysmorphic features. The 1p32.3 chromosomal region harbors several genes critical for development; however, their validation and characterization remain inadequate. One such gene is the single-stranded DNA-binding protein 3 (SSBP3) and itsDrosophila melanogasterortholog is called sequence-specific single-stranded DNA-binding protein (Ssdp). Here, we investigated consequences ofSsdpmanipulations on neurodevelopment, gene expression, physiological function, and autism-associated behaviors usingDrosophilamodels. We found that SSBP3 and Ssdp are expressed in excitatory neurons in the brain.Ssdpoverexpression caused morphological alterations inDrosophilawing, mechanosensory bristles, and head.Ssdpmanipulations also affected the neuropil brain volume and glial cell number in larvae and adult flies. Moreover,Ssdpoverexpression led to differential changes in synaptic density in specific brain regions. We observed decreased levels of armadillo in the heads ofSsdpoverexpressing flies, as well as a decrease in armadillo and wingless expression in the larval wing discs, implicating the involvement of the canonical Wnt signaling pathway in Ssdp functionality. RNA sequencing revealed perturbation of oxidative stress-related pathways in heads ofSsdpoverexpressing flies. Furthermore,Ssdpoverexpressing brains showed enhanced reactive oxygen species (ROS), altered neuronal mitochondrial morphology, and up-regulated fission and fusion genes. Flies with elevated levels ofSsdpexhibited heightened anxiety-like behavior, altered decisiveness, defective sensory perception and habituation, abnormal social interaction, and feeding defects, which were phenocopied in the pan-neuronalSsdpknockdown flies, suggesting thatSsdpis dosage sensitive. Partial rescue of behavioral defects was observed upon normalization ofSsdplevels. Notably,Ssdpknockdown exclusively in adult flies did not produce behavioral and functional defects. Finally, we show that optogenetic manipulation of Ssdp-expressing neurons altered autism-associated behaviors. Collectively, our findings provide evidence thatSsdp, a dosage-sensitive gene in the 1p32.3 chromosomal region, is associated with various anatomical, physiological, and behavioral defects, which may be relevant to neurodevelopmental disorders like autism. Our study proposesSSBP3as a critical gene in the 1p32.3 microdeletion/duplication genomic region and sheds light on the functional role ofSsdpin neurodevelopmental processes inDrosophila.
Comparing in-person, blended and virtual training interventions; a real-world evaluation of HIV capacity building programs in 16 countries in sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Kiguli-Malwadde E. , Forster M. , Eliaz A. , Celentano J. , Chilembe E. , Couper I. D. , Dassah E. T. , De Villiers M. R. , Gachuno O. , Haruzivishe C. , Khanyola J. , Martin S. , Motlhatlhedi K. , Mubuuke R. , Mteta K. A. , Moabi P. , Rodrigues A. , Sears D. , Semitala F. , von Zinkernagel D. , Reid M. J. A. , Suleman F.
Published: July 2023

We sought to evaluate the impact of transitioning a multi-country HIV training program from in-person to online by comparing digital training approaches implemented during the pandemic with in-person approaches employed before COVID-19. We evaluated mean changes in pre-and post-course knowledge scores and self-reported confidence scores for learners who participated in (1) in-person workshops (between October 2019 and March 2020), (2) entirely asynchronous, Virtual Workshops [VW] (between May 2021 and January 2022), and (3) a blended Online Course [OC] (between May 2021 and January 2022) across 16 SSA countries. Learning objectives and evaluation tools were the same for all three groups. Across 16 SSA countries, 3023 participants enrolled in the in-person course, 2193 learners participated in the virtual workshop, and 527 in the online course. The proportions of women who participated in the VW and OC were greater than the proportion who participated in the in-person course (60.1% and 63.6%, p<0.001). Nursing and midwives constituted the largest learner group overall (1145 [37.9%] vs. 949 [43.3%] vs. 107 [20.5%]). Across all domains of HIV knowledge and self-perceived confidence, there was a mean increase between pre- and post-course assessments, regardless of how training was delivered. The greatest percent increase in knowledge scores was among those participating in the in-person course compared to VW or OC formats (13.6% increase vs. 6.0% and 7.6%, p<0.001). Gains in self-reported confidence were greater among learners who participated in the in-person course compared to VW or OC formats, regardless of training level (p<0.001) or professional cadre (p<0.001). In this multi-country capacity HIV training program, in-person, online synchronous, and blended synchronous/asynchronous strategies were effective means of training learners from diverse clinical settings. Online learning approaches facilitated participation from more women and more diverse cadres. However, gains in knowledge and clinical confidence were greater among those participating in in-person learning programs.
Alignment of multiple metabolomics LC-MS datasets from disparate diseases to reveal fever-associated metabolites
Authors: Năstase Ana-Maria , Barrett Michael P. , Cárdenas Washington B. , Cordeiro Fernanda Bertuccez , Zambrano Mildred , Andrade Joyce , Chang Juan , Regato Mary , Carrillo Eugenia , Botana Laura , Moreno Javier , Regnault Clément , Milne Kathryn , Spence Philip J. , Rowe J. Alexandra , Rogers Simon
Published: July 2023

Acute febrile illnesses are still a major cause of mortality and morbidity globally, particularly in low to middle income countries. The aim of this study was to determine any possible metabolic commonalities of patients infected with disparate pathogens that cause fever. Three liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) datasets investigating the metabolic effects of malaria, leishmaniasis and Zika virus infection were used. The retention time (RT) drift between the datasets was determined using landmarks obtained from the internal standards generally used in the quality control of the LC-MS experiments. Fitted Gaussian Process models (GPs) were used to perform a high level correction of the RT drift between the experiments, which was followed by standard peakset alignment between the samples with corrected RTs of the three LC-MS datasets. Statistical analysis, annotation and pathway analysis of the integrated peaksets were subsequently performed. Metabolic dysregulation patterns common across the datasets were identified, with kynurenine pathway being the most affected pathway between all three fever-associated datasets.
Decrease in the prevalence of antimicrobial resistance in Escherichia coli isolates of Canadian turkey flocks driven by the implementation of an antimicrobial stewardship program
Authors: Shrestha Rima D. , Agunos Agnes , Gow Sheryl P. , Deckert Anne E. , Varga Csaba
Published: July 2023

The emergence of antimicrobial-resistant organisms at the human-animal-environment interface has raised global concern prompting governments and various stakeholders to take action. As a part of the stewardship initiative, Canadian turkey producers have implemented an antimicrobial use (AMU) strategy to manage antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in their sector. This study evaluated farm-level AMU and AMR data collected between 2016 and 2021 in major turkey-producing provinces/regions through the Canadian Integrated Program for Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance to assess the progress of the strategy by characterizing the prevalence of homologous and multidrug resistance (MDR) in Escherichia coli isolated from turkeys. Multivariable mixed-effect logistic regression models assessed temporal and provincial/regional variations in AMR and MDR. Negative binomial regression models examined the temporal and regional variations in the total AMU. The total AMU (measured in mg/kg turkey biomass) significantly decreased in all provinces/regions in 2020 and 2021. Escherichia coli isolates from turkey flocks showed a significant decrease in resistance to gentamicin, sulfisoxazole, and tetracyclines during the six-year study period, consistent with the timing of the AMU reduction strategy. The prevalence of MDR isolates was significantly lower in 2020 and 2021 compared to 2016. Higher prevalence was observed in the Western region compared to Québec and Ontario. Two common AMR patterns were identified: ampicillin-streptomycin-tetracyclines and streptomycin-sulfisoxazole-tetracyclines. These AMR patterns indicate possible cross-resistances (same class), co-selection (unrelated classes) for resistance, or potential carryover of resistance determinants from previous production cycles. The decreasing prevalence of resistance to homologous antimicrobials, MDR, and AMU quantity are suggestive that the turkey sector’s AMU strategy is achieving its desired impact. However, antimicrobials previously eliminated for preventive use in turkey flocks and the use of highly important antimicrobials in human medicine suggest that the AMU reduction strategy should be monitored and re-evaluated periodically to mitigate the emergence of MDR bacteria and safeguard animal and public health.
Severe udder cleft dermatitis lesion transcriptomics points to an impaired skin barrier, defective wound repair and a dysregulated inflammatory response as key elements in the pathogenesis
Authors: Vermeersch A. S. , Ali M. , Gansemans Y. , Van Nieuwerburgh F. , Geldhof P. , Ducatelle R. , Deforce D. , Callens J. , Opsomer G.
Published: July 2023

This study is the first to investigate the transcriptomic changes occurring in severe udder cleft dermatitis lesions (UCD) in Holstein-Friesian cows. An examination of the gene expression levels in natural UCD lesions and healthy udder skin through RNA Seq-Technology provided a deeper insight into the inflammatory pathways associated with this disease. A clear distinction between the gene expression patterns of UCD lesions and healthy skin was shown in the principal component analysis. Genes coding for inflammatory molecules were upregulated such as the chemokines C-X-C motif ligand 2 (CXCL2), 5 (CXCL5) and 8 (CXCL8), and C-C motif ligand 11 (CCL11). Moreover, the genes coding for the multifunctional moleculesADAM12andSLPIwere amongst the highest upregulated ones, whereas the most downregulated genes included the ones coding for keratins and keratin-associated molecules. Predominantly inflammatory pathways such as the chemokine signaling, cytokine receptor interaction and IL-17 signaling pathway were significantly upregulated in the pathway analysis. These results point towards a fulminant, dysregulated inflammatory response concomitant with a disruption of the skin barrier integrity and a hampered wound repair mechanism in severe UCD lesions.
Utilizing a mixed-methods approach to assess implementation fidelity of a group antenatal care trial in Rwanda
Authors: Singh Kalee , Murindahabi Nathalie , Butrick Elizabeth , Sayinzoga Felix , Nzeyimana David , Musange Sabine , Walker Dilys
Published: July 2023

Background

The Preterm Birth Initiative (PTBi)–Rwanda conducted a cluster randomized controlled trial to assess the impact of group antenatal care (group ANC) on preterm birth, using a group ANC approach adapted for the Rwanda setting, and implemented in 18 health centers. Previous research showed high overall fidelity of implementation, but lacked correlation with provider self-assessment and left unanswered questions. This study utilizes a mixed-methods approach to study the fidelity with which the health centers’ implementation followed the model specified for group ANC.

Methods

Implementation fidelity was measured using two tools, repeated Model Fidelity Assessments (MFAs) and Activity Reports (ARs) completed by Master Trainers, who visited each health center between 7 and 13 times (9 on average) to provide monitoring and training over 18 months between 2017 and 2019. Each center’s MFA item and overall scores were regressed (linear regression) on the time elapsed since the center’s start of implementation. The Activity Report (AR) is an open-ended template to record comments on implementation. For the qualitative analysis, the ARs from the times of each center’s highest and lowest MFA score were analyzed using thematic analysis. Coding was conducted via Dedoose, with two coders independently reviewing and coding transcripts, followed by joint consensus coding.

Results

A total of 160 MFA reports were included in the analysis. There was a significant positive association between elapsed time since a health center started implementation and greater implementation fidelity (as measured by MFA scores). In the qualitative AR analysis, Master Trainers identified key areas to improve fidelity of implementation, including: group ANC scheduling, preparing the room for group ANC sessions, provider capacity to co-facilitate group ANC, and facilitator knowledge and skills regarding group ANC content and process. These results reveal that monitoring visits are an important part of acquisition and fidelity of the “soft skills” required to effectively implement group ANC and provide an understanding of the elements that may have impacted fidelity as described by Master Trainers.

Conclusions

For interventions like Group ANC, where “soft-skills” like group facilitation are important, we recommend continuous monitoring and mentoring throughout program implementation to strengthen these new skills, provide corrective feedback and guard against skills decay. We suggest the use of quantitative tools to provide direct measures of implementation fidelity over time and qualitative tools to gain a more complete understanding of what factors influence implementation fidelity. Identifying areas of implementation requiring additional support and mentoring may ensure effective translation of evidence-based interventions into real-world settings.
Dupilumab-Induced Pancreatitis
Authors: Jasti Vivek V. , McCarthy Sean T. , Govani Shail M.
Published: July 2023

Drug-induced pancreatitis (DIP) is a rare cause of pancreatitis with an extensive and growing list of offending medications. Drawing a causative relationship between a medication and pancreatitis can be challenging, requiring a thorough workup to exclude other potential etiologies. By using scoring systems to identify DIP, we have identified another case of suspected DIP. In this study, we present a case of pancreatitis 10 days after initiation of dupilumab. An evaluation for other causes was unrevealing. As dupilumab use increases, providers should be aware of this possible adverse effect.
Degrowing China—By Collapse, Redistribution, or Planning?
Authors: Li Minqi
Published: July 2023

Minqi Li asks: How can China, the world's largest energy consumer, be "de-grown"? What policies and institutions must change, and what are the potential social implications? How can social ownership of production, redistribution of wealth the working class, and democratically controlled planning bring the country closer to a zero growth scenario?
The Potential of Bacillus subtilis subsp. subtilis RJ09 as a Biological Control Agent Against Leaf Spot Diseases on Clove
Authors: Wisanggeni Gen Adi , Suryanti Suryanti , Joko Tri
Published: July 2023

Cloves is one of the main plantation commodities and is native to Indonesia. Leaf spot disease with necrosis symptom is often found in clove plants. Interferences to photosynthesis caused by leaf spot disease can cause plant death. Bacillus is known to inhibit the development of pathogens through nutrient competition and antibiosis mechanism. This study aims to identify Bacillus sp. RJ09 through molecular approach and determine its potential in suppressing the development of Pestalotiopsis sp., the cause of clove leaf spot by in vitro examination. Identification of the fungus was carried out by observing the morphology which included the color of the colony, the shape and size of the conidium of the isolated fungus. Identification of Bacillus sp. RJ09 was performed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using a pair of primers that amplified gyrB gene region of ±1400 bp, followed by sequence analysis. The ability of Bacillus sp. RJ09 as a biological agent against fungi associated with leaf spot was determined using an in vitro double culture method. Pestalotiopsis sp. was found as the fungus associated with leaf spot disease and can cause black necrotic spots on the leaves. Molecular identification of Bacillus sp. RJ09 showed the highest similarity value of 99.40% with B. subtilis subsp. subtitles. In vitro dual culture showed B. subtilis subsp. subtilis RJ09 can inhibit the growth of Pestalotiopsis sp. colonies by 75%.
Factors Influencing the Environmental Awareness of Visitors to the Natural Protected Areas on the Island of Tenerife
Authors: Fílová Eliška , Andreska Jan , Ruiz Carolina Castillo
Published: July 2023

The research analysed the behaviour of visitors to protected natural sites on the island of Tenerife and described the main characteristics of visitors to these areas. Visitors completed anonymous research questionnaires based on a model that combines the Theory of Planned Behaviour with other elements of behavioural analysis, and using this research tool, the factors influencing visitors' resulting pro-environmental behaviour were analysed. Visitors were also asked how they perceived the situation regarding litter management in the natural sites and how they were influenced by the education provided by the management of the natural park. The research results confirm the importance of the influence of environmental education on people's environmental awareness. It was found that awareness of the consequences of behaviour significantly influences personal norms and attitudes, and these in turn have the greatest impact on the resulting pro-environmental behaviour of visitors. A protected natural area can have an educational role, but it is also important to enable visitors to behave in an environmentally conscious manner, for which the provision of appropriate conditions (sufficient bins, the ability to sort waste, etc.) is needed. The research results also indicated that pro-environmental behaviour is influenced by perceived behavioural control, i.e. how difficult it is for visitors to behave in a certain way in a given environment.
Kompromis w trybie offline, czyli Anny Cieplak ciało dziewczyny vs. minister i meta. Niepokoje pedagogiczne wokół podmiotowości i samostanowienia dziewcząt oraz młodych kobiet
Authors: Dawid Paulina
Published: July 2023

The text of the article raises the issues of the impact of social media on adolescent girls, and social activism and educational activities aimed at youth. Author takes attempt to develop a support and education strategies.