bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
La relación entre migración y derecho a la salud desde la perspectiva bioética. Una revisión sistemática de literatura
Authors: Alvarado Ramírez Alfredo
Published: November 2023

Uno de los principales debates en bioética gira en torno al acceso a la salud de personas migrantes, sin embargo, es difícil encontrar estudios o artículos que consignen las aportaciones concretas que la bioética ha hecho en esta materia. Por esta razón, esta revisión sistemática tiene como objetivo principal identificar los aportes que la bioética ha realizado a la relación entre migración y el derecho humano de acceso a la salud desde el año 2006. Con base en la metodología PRISMA, se realizó una búsqueda de artículos en los repositorios cerrados de Scielo, PubMed, Elsevier, Redalyc y Dialnet, procurando que estos fueran de revistas indexadas. Se excluyeron aquellos que fueron publicados antes del año 2006. En total, se eligieron 13 artículos que fueron sometidos a una lectura detallada para reportar sus resultados y conclusiones. Los hallazgos fueron agrupados en seis categorías y se identificó como principal aportación de esta disciplina la formulación de principios bioéticos que guían la labor médica y científica y que son nociones básicas para elaborar políticas públicas de acceso a la salud.  Se considera que los resultados recabados son relevantes para autoridades, profesionales de la salud, científicos y migrantes, así como para la elaboración de nuevos proyectos que retomen el objetivo de esta investigación con otro enfoque.
El embrioide y sus leyes. Una breve aproximación al contexto internacional
Authors: Reguera Cabezas Marta
Published: November 2023

En los últimos años el desarrollo de modelos in vitro con células madre humanas que simulan el desarrollo embrionario temprano ha vivido un gran progreso. Las dificultades para acceder a embriones humanos, la escasez de material embrionario y los desafíos técnicos, legales y éticos existentes sobre la investigación y experimentación con embriones humanos in vitro siguen siendo una barrera para avanzar en el conocimiento de la embriogénesis tras la gastrulación. Por ello distintos mecanismos celulares subyacentes a la formación de las líneas celulares en los seres humanos siguen siendo desconocidos. En el presente trabajo intentaremos reflejar varios de los aspectos que son motivo de incertidumbres jurídicas internacionales en relación con la investigación con embrioides como modelo experimental.
Jorge Luján: Author–Argentina
Authors: Luján Jorge
Published: November 2023

Abstract: "Every now and then I visit them, and when I see the little poems what literally happens is this: the poem looks at me and there is a little word that twinkles like a star and tells me: I don't belong here. Or the other way round, there is one that lurks and says: I should be in there but you haven't been able to take me yet."
Gary Crew: Author–Australia
Authors: Crew Gary
Published: November 2023

Abstract: "People should be looking for absences and try to understand and close absences."
Matt Ottley: Illustrator–Australlia
Authors: Ottley Matt
Published: November 2023

Abstract: "If my books can have furthered, in their small way, the cause of compassion and empathy, then it will all have been worthwhile."
Paloma Valdivia: Illustrator–Chile
Authors: Valdivia Paloma
Published: November 2023

Abstract: "Books are magical objects, toys, blankies, safe places. They are also fireworks that illuminate childhood and leave that light engraved forever. I'd like to think that my books can be part of those lights."
Ivar Da Coll: Illustrator–Colombia/Venezuela
Authors: Da Coll Ivar
Published: November 2023

Abstract: "To the ones who can create a book for kids, life has rewarded us by giving us the benefit of not losing our capability to be amazed, and in that we remain being kids. By creating a book I have fun, I expect just that to happen to the reader."
Timo Parvela: Author–Finland
Authors: Parvela Timo
Published: November 2023

Abstract: "Stories protect the child. They provide a refuge, when the child feels anxious, or when life doesn't make sense. Every child should have a protective castle made with the stones and mortar of stories and fairy tales."
Linda Bondestam: Illustrator–Finland
Authors: Bondestam Linda
Published: November 2023

Abstract: "I have always been an illustrator, most kids probably are, I just never stopped."
Andreas Steinhöfel: Author–Germany
Authors: Steinhöfel Andreas
Published: November 2023

Abstract: "It is my belief, a long sentence could never harm children. A child should always try to stretch, not cower."
Nikolaus Heidelbach: Illustrator–Germany
Authors: Heidelbach Nikolaus
Published: November 2023

Abstract: "A book without mystery, without magic, is uninteresting."
Kelly Matathia-Covo: Illustrator–Greece
Authors: Matathia-Covo Kelly
Published: November 2023

Abstract: "It is our innate need for a better understanding of the world and of ourselves that drives us to create books, for they can be windows and mirrors."
Samar Mahfouz Barraj: Author–Lebanon
Authors: Barraj Samar Mahfouz
Published: November 2023

Abstract: "There is nothing we cannot write about when it comes to children's books. It depends on the way topics are presented to the child. We should stop hiding behind taboos."
Maya Fidawi: Illustrator–Lebanon
Authors: Fidawi Maya
Published: November 2023

Abstract: "I translate my city and culture into lines and details that not only children can relate to, but also grown-ups. The thing that I enjoy the most is seeing those smiles and hearing those little giggles when children and their parents notice little hidden details and funny messages in my artwork."
Gavin Bishop: Illustrator–New Zealand
Authors: Bishop Gavin
Published: November 2023

Abstract: "I really like making a picture with my hands on a piece of paper and experiencing all the little accidents and unexpected events that take place when you draw a line, apply paint or perhaps make a mono-print. You never completely know what is going to happen, how dark a colour will dry or how thickly a brush might make a line."
Peter Svetina: Author–Slovenia
Authors: Svetina Peter
Published: November 2023

Abstract: "Every child is born curious and inquisitive—and more or less cheeky, in one way or another; but I believe every child has some curiosity. If you feed it, it'll grow, and if you don't, it'll be stunted. But without thought and imagination, man, I believe, is just a traffic light, programmed to turn from red to orange to green and left to stand there and light up. Can you imagine a traffic light strolling around and flashing all its three colors at the same time?"
Miyase Sertbarut: Author–Turkey
Authors: Sertbarut Miyase
Published: November 2023

Abstract: "Not only children's literature, but every literary writer should be able to see the world through the eyes of others. The writer should know how to get rid of his/her own identity; he/she should understand and describe what is going on through the eyes of women, men, old people, children, animals, trees, the good and the bad. Then his/her writings will be authentic, sincere and will convince the reader."
Judy Blume: Author–United States
Authors: Blume Judy
Published: November 2023

Abstract: "Books that make kids laugh often come under suspicion; so do books that encourage kids to think, or question authority; books that don't hit the reader over the head with moral lessons are considered dangerous."
Factors Associated with Perceptions of Respect in Health Care Settings
Authors: Mitsdarffer Mary Louise , Alang Sirry M.
Published: November 2023

Abstract: How individuals are treated in health care settings matters for continuity of care and overall health outcomes. Feeling respected within health care settings is important for health care utilization and elimination of health disparities, especially among ethnoracially marginalized groups. This study identifies within and between ethno-racial group differences in individual-level characteristics associated with perceived respect in health care settings. Using data from the Survey of the Health of Urban Residents, we preform stepwise ordinary least squares regressions to assess within and between group differences. The analytic sample consisted of respondents who identified as Black/African American, Hispanic/Latinx, and White (N=3,801). We find that racial identity and daily experiences of discrimination are significantly tied to perceived respect in health care settings, especially among Black health care users. We conclude that experiences of discrimination are not equitable among minoritized groups.
Variation in Time Between Testing Positive for COVID-19 and Hospital Admission by Race/Ethnicity and Insurance Status
Authors: Porter Austin , Brown Clare C. , Rodriguez Analiz , Zohoori Namvar , Wells Samantha , Crump Alisha , Romero José , Tilford J. Mick
Published: November 2023

Abstract: Understanding the extent to which demographic and socioeconomic factors play a role in the disparities associated with duration between testing positive for COVID-19 and hospital admission will help in achieving equitable health outcomes. This project linked the statewide COVID-19 registry to administrative datasets to examine the variation in times between testing positive for COVID-19 and hospital admission by race/ethnicity and insurance. In 2020, there were 11,314 patients admitted for COVID-19 in Arkansas. Approximately 42.2% tested positive for COVID-19 on the same day as hospital admission. Black patients had 38% higher odds of hospitalization on the day of testing compared with White patients (p<.001). Medicaid and uninsured patients had 51% and 50% higher odds of admission on the day of testing compared with privately insured patients (both p<.001), respectively. This study highlights the implications of reduced access to testing with respect to equitable health outcomes.
Tattoo Removal in People of Color Who Were Formerly Incarcerated or Were Gang Members: Complications and Best Practices
Authors: Reilly Jo Marie , Spektor Philip , De La Torre Miguel , Paranandi Sneha , Bogner Jessica
Published: November 2023

Abstract: There are limited data about the tattoo removal process in formerly gang-involved and incarcerated people of color. This single center retrospective study was conducted on patients treated at Homeboy Industries' Ya'Stuvo Tattoo Removal Clinic between January 2016–December 2018. It reviewed data on 2,118 tattoos, and a representative sample of 502 patients was used to conduct our analysis. Treatment on 118 of the tattoos (5.57%) resulted in at least one complication (hypo-or hyper-pigmentation, keloids, or scarring). Patients who experienced tattoo removal complications (7.3%) were less likely to return to complete the removal process. More complications were experienced with higher fluences of energy, on tattoos placed by professional artists, on colored tattoos, and tattoos on clients who had a greater number of treatments. The study highlights complications and best practices in tattoo removal in people of color, a process critical to the reintegration and gang disengagement of this vulnerable population.
Caring for Refugees with Mental Health Problems: Difficulties Encountered by Providers Requesting Exemptions from United States Citizenship Examinations
Authors: Baird Kyle , Lintz Mario , Schlander Daniella , Yager Joel , Savin Daniel
Published: November 2023

Abstract: Mental health providers caring for refugees should be aware that obtaining citizenship is critical to stability and safety for their patients. In the United States (U.S.), obtaining citizenship requires applicants to pass an examination exhibiting working knowledge of English and foundational knowledge of U.S. civics. For refugees with mental health disorders that impair cognition, this may present insurmountable barriers. The United States Customs and Immigration Services (USCIS) offers form N-648 to request exemption from these requirements. However, the form can be difficult to complete in a manner acceptable to USCIS. In this paper, the authors present preliminary data on citizenship-related mental health evaluations and subsequent applications for 40 patients seen in a university-based refugee mental health clinic. We simplify the process into three phases, and present three cases highlighting specific complexities involved. Our experiences and recommendations may help other mental health providers prepare to advocate for their refugee patients.
Strategies for Combatting Health Disparities in Prioritization Schema for Medically-Necessary Time-Sensitive Orthopaedic Surgeries
Authors: Colomb Eric , Lapedis Cathryn J. , Hallstrom Brian R. , Crawford Eileen A. , Smith Lauren B.
Published: November 2023

Abstract: A decrease in non-emergent procedure volume was observed during the COVID-19 pandemic to conserve protective equipment, increase hospital capacity, and limit nosocomial infection. Decreasing COVID-19 infection rates, paired with increasing hospital financial pressure and concerns for patient welfare, have prompted the development of guidelines for re-introduction of medically-necessary time-sensitive (MeNTS) procedures. Such protocols have received criticism for potentially perpetuating inequities disfavoring vulnerable populations. Limited access to testing supplies and protective equipment, coupled with higher incidence of medical comorbidities attributable to social determinants of health, disadvantages vulnerable populations in seemingly objective prioritization schema. Here, we detail both an analysis of current guidelines as well as strategies aimed at mitigating these disparities (including prioritizing essential infrastructure workers, implementing questionnaires, improving scheduling communication, tracking patients via ZIP codes and insurance status, facilitating post-operative rehabilitation, acknowledging physician bias, and favoring lottery selection over first-come, first-served). These guidelines and strategies can apply to future pandemics and even routine prioritization schema.
Maria Renata Mayenowa and the Forgotten Legacy of Polish Theory of Literature and Poetics
Authors: Zarycki Tomasz
Published: November 2023

Abstract: This article examines the figure of an outstanding Polish philologist — Maria Renata Mayenowa (1908–88) — attempting to interpret her life trajectory with the help of sociological tools. It is argued that Mayenowa's biography is significant in the context of the history of Polish, as well as Eastern European intellectual thought, for several reasons. First, it can be helpful in the reconstruction of the Polish involvement in the development of social theory in the twentieth century. Second, it provides insight into Polish-Russian, and more broadly, Polish-Eastern European intellectual relations in the twentieth century. Finally, the third reason is the non-obvious forms in which the history of Eastern European Jewish elites, and in particular the Jewish bourgeoisie, manifested itself in her biography.
Characterization of the polarization fluctuations in gain-switched VCSELs for quantum random number generation
Authors: Quirce Ana , Valle Angel , Valle-Miñón Marcos , Gutiérrez Jaime
Published: November 2023

We report a characterization of the polarization fluctuations observed when gain-switching vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs) for quantum random number generation (QRNG) applications. We compare our experimental measurements with the results obtained from a stochastic rate equations model that incorporates the intrinsic parameters of the VCSEL found using the state-of-the-art experimental techniques. The good agreement obtained between our experiments and simulations can be used to establish a validation process that permits monitoring of the device behavior to detect malicious intrusion or malfunctioning of the QRNG. Simulations of the model are used to look for parameters that maximize the QRNG performance. Along this direction we consider the performance when considering a VCSEL with vanishing values of the amplitude and phase anisotropies. We show that in this system the obtained raw bits have a low bias value that is independent of the sampling time chosen to obtain the random bit and of the parameters of the modulation. We also use the simulations of the model to predict the QRNG performance at high modulation frequencies. We show that random bits obtained at several Gbps rates, after appropriate post-processing, fully pass the NIST statistical test.
Utilizing Rydberg superatoms to fuse the W state and the GHZ state
Authors: Shao Q. P. , Wang J. , Ji Y. Q. , Liu Y. L. , Dong L. , Xiu X. M.
Published: November 2023

Multiparticle entanglement has important applications in quantum information and quantum computing. Here, we propose two schemes to fuse large-scale entangled W states and GHZ states. In the first fusion scheme, we send two Rydberg superatoms that belong to an n particle W state and an m particle W state, respectively, into a vacuum cavity; an (n+m−2) particle W state can be obtained by detecting the state of the superatoms after the interaction. In the second fusion scheme, we send two Rydberg superatoms into two separate cavities; with the assistance of a circularly polarized photon, we can obtain a (k+l) particle GHZ state after detecting the state of the photon. The numerical simulation analysis shows that both schemes are robust against the spontaneous emission of superatoms and the decay of the cavity. The feasibility analysis indicates that these two schemes can be realized in experiments.
Tunable all-optical microwave logic gates based on nonreciprocal topologically protected edge modes
Authors: Xu Jie , He Panpan , Feng Delong , Luo Yamei , Fan Siqiang , Yong Kangle , Tsakmakidis Kosmas L.
Published: November 2023

All-optical logic gates have been studied intensively owing to their potential to enable broadband, low-loss and high-speed communications. However, poor tunability has remained a key challenge in this field. In this work, we propose a Y-shaped structure composed of Yttrium Iron Garnet (YIG) layers that can serve as tunable all-optical logic gates, including, but not limited to, OR, AND and NOT gates, by applying external magnetic fields to magnetize the YIG layers. Our findings reveal that these logic gates are founded on protected one-way edge modes, where by tuning the wavenumber k of the operating mode to a sufficiently small (or even zero) value, the gates can become nearly immune to nonlocal effects. This not only enhances their reliability but also allows for maintaining extremely high precision in their operations. Furthermore, the operating band itself of the logic gates is also shown to be tunable. We introduce a straightforward and practical method for controlling and switching these gates between "work", "skip", and "stop" modes. These findings have potentially significant implications for the design of high-performance and robust all-optical microwave communication systems.
Upconversion photoluminescence of monolayer WSe2 with biaxial strain tuning
Authors: Roy Shrawan , Gao Jie , Yang Xiaodong
Published: November 2023

Mechanical strain can be used to tune the optical properties of monolayer transition metal dichalcogenides (1L-TMDs). Here, upconversion photoluminescence (UPL) from 1L-WSe2 flakes is tuned with biaxial strain induced by cruciform bending and indentation method. It is found that the peak position of UPL is redshifted by around 24 nm as the applied biaxial strain increases from 0% to 0.51%. At the same time, the UPL intensity increases exponentially for the upconversion energy difference that lies within a broad range between −157 meV to −37 meV. The observed linear and sublinear power dependence of UPL emission in 1L-WSe2 with and without biaxial strain at three different excitation wavelengths of 784 nm, 800 nm, and 820 nm indicates the multiphonon-assisted one-photon upconversion emission process. The results of strain-dependent UPL emission from 1L-TMDs pave a unique path to the advances in photon upconversion applications and optoelectronic devices.
Robust retrieval of material chemical states in X-ray microspectroscopy
Authors: Wang Ting , Wu Xiaotong , Li Jizhou , Wang Chao
Published: November 2023

X-ray microspectroscopic techniques are essential for studying morphological and chemical changes in materials, providing high-resolution structural and spectroscopic information. However, its practical data analysis for reliably retrieving the chemical states remains a major obstacle to accelerating the fundamental understanding of materials in many research fields. In this work, we propose a novel data formulation model for X-ray microspectroscopy and develop a dedicated unmixing framework to solve this problem, which is robust to noise and spectral variability. Moreover, this framework is not limited to analyzing two-state material chemistry, making it an effective alternative to conventional and widely used methods. In addition, an alternative directional multiplier method with explicit or implicit regularization is applied to obtain the solution efficiently. Our framework can accurately identify and characterize chemical states in complex and heterogeneous samples, even under challenging conditions such as low signal-to-noise ratios and overlapping spectral features. By testing six simulated datasets, our method improves the existing methods by up to 151.84% and 136.33% in terms of the peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) and the structural similarity index (SSIM) for the chemical phase map. Extensive experimental results on simulated and real datasets demonstrate its effectiveness and reliability.
High-precision microscopic autofocus with a single natural image
Authors: Hua Zhijie , Zhang Xu , Tu Dawei
Published: November 2023

In industrial microscopic detection, learning-based autofocus methods have empowered operators to acquire high-quality images quickly. However, there are two parts of errors in Learning-based methods: the fitting error of the network model and the making error of the prior dataset, which limits the potential for further improvements in focusing accuracy. In this paper, a high-precision autofocus pipeline was introduced, which predicts the defocus distance from a single natural image. A new method for making datasets was proposed, which overcomes the limitations of the sharpness metric itself and improves the overall accuracy of the dataset. Furthermore, a lightweight regression network was built, namely Natural-image Defocus Prediction Model (NDPM), to improve the focusing accuracy. A realistic dataset of sufficient size was made to train all models. The experiment shows NDPM has better focusing performance compared with other models, with a mean focusing error of 0.422µm.
Multi-target automatic positioning based on angle and distance parallel measurement
Authors: Yang Shuo , Yang Linghui , Wu Tengfei , Shi Shendong , Ma Luyao , Zhu Jigui
Published: November 2023

Precisely and efficiently measuring three-dimensional coordinates of key points on large-scale components in the manufacturing process of aircraft and ships is critically essential. This study presents a multi-target automatic positioning method based on rapid angle and distance measurement in parallel. The measurement processes for angles and distances are decoupled and, when executed simultaneously, aims to enhance the measurement efficiency and automation compared with conventional metrology systems. A cooperative target is devised to realize the rotary-laser scanning angle measurement and absolute distance measurement in parallel. The method of multi-target rough positioning based on rotary-laser scanning and then the precise coordinate measurement method introducing absolute distance constraint are detailed. Especially for the distance measurement, we propose a method to determine the internal zero length and compensate for the distance error caused by mirror offset. A real-site experiment is implemented to verify the method's feasibility and demonstrate that the 3D coordinate measurement accuracy is better than 0.17 mm compared with laser tracker.
Distinguishing under- and over-coupled resonances without prior knowledge
Authors: Cui Chaohan , Zhang Liang , Wu Bo-Han , Liu Shuai , Chen Pao-Kang , Fan Linran
Published: November 2023

We show that it is unreliable to determine the coupling condition of optical resonances by analyzing the extinction ratio change with wavelengths. We propose and demonstrate the unambiguous discrimination between under- and over-coupled resonances using binary phase modulation in power transmission measurement.
Deep Neural Networks with Bidirectional Long Short-Term Memories for Fluorescent Light Interference Mitigation in Indoor Optical Wireless Communication Systems
Authors: Rizaner Ahmet
Published: November 2023

Indoor optical wireless communication systems are severely impacted by Fluorescent Light Interference (FLI), which is a major system impairment. Therefore, this interference should be mitigated using appropriate techniques to ensure optimal system performance. In this research, we propose the use of deep neural networks whose core consists of Bidirectional Long Short-Term Memories (BLSTM) to reduce the disruptive effect of FLI. The simulation study for On-and-Off Keying (OOK) modulation scheme shows that the proposed noise estimation and smoothing techniques significantly improve the system performance. The best system performance in terms of bit error rate is achieved when we apply smoothing after denoising.
Passive mode locking Erbium-doped fiber laser based on semimetal TaP quantum dots
Authors: long hui , Xu YanXian , Wen Minru , Dong Huafeng , Tao Lili , Wu Fugen , Chen Li
Published: November 2023

The novel semimetal tantalum phosphide (TaP) is known for its notable physical property including high carrier mobility, zero bandgap structure, and superconductivity. However, there exists no prior record of TaP being harnessed as a saturable absorber (SA) within ultrafast fiber lasers. In this study, ultrasound assisted liquid phase exfoliation is applied to fabricate TaP quantum dots (QDs). Then QDs are subsequently deposited onto the tapered waist of a specialized fiber to create a TaP-SA. The evaluation of nonlinear optical properties is conducted using a two-armed balanced probing device, which yields noteworthy results including a modulation depth of 10.8 % and a saturation intensity of 0.52 KW/cm2. Then, the TaP-SA is applied in Er-doped fiber laser (EDFL) which demonstrates that a steady mode-locked pulse output with an average output power of 3.545 mW and a pulse width of 552 fs is obtained. The intrinsic semimetal properties of TaP underscore its potential in the realm of ultrafast photonic and nonlinear optical devices.
Influence of deficit irrigation levels on agronomic performance of pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) under drip at alage, central rift valley of Ethiopia
Authors: Mohammed Seid , Hussen Arebu
Published: November 2023

Water scarcity is one of the most significant constraints on agricultural production in the world, notably in Ethiopia. In the location where this study was conducted, production is only possible once a year. To make the most use of available water, effective water application technologies must be used, and the feasibility of producing crops in water-stressed scenarios must also be researched. In areas of water shortage, deficit irrigation was an essential approach for raising water production and improving water use efficiency. For this purpose, a field experiment was carried out at Alage ATVET College in Ethiopia’s Central Rift Valley during the 2019/20 dry season. The regularly grown cash crop pepper was chosen for experimentation under drip irrigation. The study aimed were to investigate the influence of deficit irrigation levels on agronomic performance and water productivity. Seven deficit levels (DI) namely 60, 50, 40, 30, 20, 10 and 0% were laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications by using drip irrigation. Water application was used in all deficit levels by managing the demand side. Full irrigation produced the maximum plant height, branch number, fruit weight per plant, fruit diameter, fruit length, marketable and total yield. However, at 20% DI levels, stem diameter, flower and fruit number per plant increased. There were only significant variations in total dry yield at 50% and 60% deficiency levels. Marketable yield was significantly different across all deficit levels. It was not possible to determine the water stress threshold level of pepper due to the large variation in yield, but at 30% DI, the yield reduction was about one-quarter of the 0% deficiency level by withholding 33.4% water. CWUE was significantly different at all deficit levels, demonstrating that as stress levels rise, so does CWUE. IWUE exhibited significant difference only at 0 and10% DI. As a result, it is possible to conclude that using at 30% deficit by withholding 33.4% of water can be used to optimize the yield and water productivity of pepper production at Alage and other areas with comparable agro-ecology.
Remote assessment of pelvic kinematics during single leg squat using smartphone sensors: Between-day reliability and identification of acute changes in motor performance
Authors: Devecchi Valter , Saunders Michelle , Galaiya Sajni , Shaw Millie , Gallina Alessio
Published: November 2023

The biomechanical assessment of pelvic kinematics during a single leg squat (SLS) commonly relies on expensive equipment, which precludes its wider implementation in ecological settings. Smartphone sensors could represent an effective solution to objectively quantify pelvic kinematics remotely, but their measure properties need to be evaluated before advocating their use in practice. This study aimed to assess whether measures of pelvic kinematics collected remotely using smartphones during SLS are repeatable between days, and if changes in pelvic kinematics can be identified during an endurance task. Thirty-three healthy young adults were tested remotely on two different days using their own smartphones placed on the lumbosacral region. Pelvic orientation and acceleration were collected during three sets of seven SLS and an endurance task of twenty consecutive SLS. The intersession reliability was assessed using Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC2,k), Standard Error of Measurement, and Minimal Detectable Change. T-tests were used to identify pelvic kinematics changes during the endurance task and to assess between-day bias. Measures of pelvic orientation and frequency features of the acceleration signals showed good to excellent reliability (multiple ICC2,k ≥ 0.79), and a shift of the power spectrum to lower frequencies on the second day (multiple p<0.05). The endurance task resulted in larger contralateral pelvic drop and rotation (multiple p<0.05) and increased spectral entropy (multiple p<0.05). Our findings demonstrate that reliable measures of pelvic kinematics can be obtained remotely using participants’ smartphones during SLS. Smartphone sensors can also identify changes in motor control, such as contralateral pelvic drop during an endurance task.
Cognitive ability and voting behaviour in the 2016 UK referendum on European Union membership
Authors: Dawson Chris , Baker Paul L.
Published: November 2023

On June 23rd 2016 the UK voted to leave the European Union. The period leading up to the referendum was characterized by a significant volume of misinformation and disinformation. Existing literature has established the importance of cognitive ability in processing and discounting (mis/dis) information in decision making. We use a dataset of couples within households from a nationally representative UK survey to investigate the relationship between cognitive ability and the propensity to vote Leave / Remain in the 2016 UK referendum on European Union membership. We find that a one standard deviation increase in cognitive ability, all else being equal, increases the likelihood of a Remain vote by 9.7%. Similarly, we find that an increase in partner’s cognitive ability further increases the respondent’s likelihood of a Remain vote (7.6%). In a final test, restricting our analysis to couples who voted in a conflicting manner, we find that having a cognitive ability advantage over one’s partner increases the likelihood of voting Remain (10.9%). An important question then becomes how to improve individual and household decision making in the face of increasing amounts of (mis/dis) information.
Impact of a randomized controlled trial of discounts on fruits, vegetables, and noncaloric beverages in NYC supermarkets on food intake and health risk factors
Authors: Nzesi Aniema , Owusu Benedicta , Barry Jillian , Sandhu Manveer , Geliebter Allan
Published: November 2023

The objective of this study was to observe the effects of a multi-level (30%, 15%, and 0%) randomized discount on fruits, vegetables, and non-caloric beverages on changes in dietary intake. This randomized controlled trial (RCT) comprised an 8-week baseline, a 32-week intervention, and a 16-week follow-up. 24-hour dietary recalls were conducted during the baseline period and before the intervention midpoint. In-person clinical measures were analyzed from Week 8 (end of baseline) and 24 (midpoint). This report is from an interim analysis up to the intervention period midpoint at Week 24, as the study is still ongoing. Participants with BMIs of 24.5–50 kg/m2 and ages 18–70 years old who were the primary household shoppers were recruited from several New York City supermarkets, starting in September 2018. Of these, we analyzed 20 in the 30% discount group, 25 in the 15% discount group, and 19 in the 0% discount group. The 30% discount group reported greater intake of vegetables (+98.4 g ± 48.9 SD, P = 0.049) and diet soda (+63.3 g ± 29.3, P = 0.035) relative to the baseline period, compared to the 0% discount group. The clinical measures including body weight remained unchanged. The participants who experienced the COVID-19 pandemic had a marginal increase in body weight of 1.5 kg, P = 0.053. In conclusion, we observed a significant increase in intake of vegetables and diet soda in the 30% discount group relative to the 0% discount group.
Gut microbiota of Suncus murinus, a naturally obesity-resistant animal, improves the ecological diversity of the gut microbiota in high-fat-diet-induced obese mice
Authors: Zhang Mingshou , Yang Ting , Li Rujia , Ren Ke , Li Jun , He Maozhang , Chen Juefei , Yi Shuang-Qin
Published: November 2023

Background

The global population of obese individuals is increasing, affecting human health. High-fat diets are a leading cause of this epidemic, and animal models, such as mice, are often used in related research. Obese individuals have a different gut microbiota composition from non-obese ones, characterized by a sizeable population of certain bacteria associated with fat storage. The gut microbiome plays a significant role in regulating human physiological and metabolic functions. Links between obesity, high-fat diets and gut microbiota have become hot topics of discussion. Recently, research on the modulation of the gut microbiota has focused on fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), which has been recognized as an effective method of studying the function of gut microbiota.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to investigate how the gut microbiota of Suncus murinus, a naturally obesity-resistant animal, through FMT, affected the ecology of the gut microbiota of high-fat diet induced obese mice.

Methods

In this study, Suncus murinus was used as a donor for FMT. High-fat diet induced C57BL/6NCrSIc mice were used as recipients, the body weight changes were measured and changes in their gut flora were analyzed using a 16S rRNA gene analysis.

Results

The study found that, after the FMT procedure, the FMT group tended to have a lower body weight than the control group. At the phylum level, the most predominant phyla in all groups were Firmicutes and Proteobacteria, while Deferribacteres was not detected in the FMT or antibiotic administration groups, and Bacteroidetes was not present in the antibiotic administration group. At the genus level, the FMT group had significantly lower OTU richness than the control group but greater diversity than the control group.

Conclusions

These results indicate that FMT from Suncus murinus can help reorganize and improve the gut microbiota of mice in a balanced and diverse ecosystem.
Clinical performance study of a fecal bacterial signature test for colorectal cancer screening
Authors: Malagón Marta , Alwers Elizabeth , Oliver Lia , Ramió-Pujol Sara , Sánchez-Vizcaino Mireia , Amoedo Joan , de Cambra Salomé , Serra-Pagès Mariona , Castells Antoni , Aldeguer Xavier , Garcia-Gil Jesús , Brenner Hermann
Published: November 2023

The fecal immunochemical test (FIT) is the most widely used test for colorectal cancer (CRC) screening. RAID-CRC Screen is a new non-invasive test based on fecal bacterial markers, developed to complement FIT by increasing its specificity. The test was previously clinically evaluated in FIT-positive patients (>20 μg of hemoglobin/g of feces, “FIT20”), in which it reduced the proportion of false positive results by 16.3% while maintaining most of FIT20’s sensitivity. The aim of this study was to compare the sensitivity and specificity of a CRC screening program using RAID-CRC Screen in addition to FIT20 as a triage test in a European screening population undergoing screening colonoscopy with a CRC screening program with FIT20 alone in the same cohort. A cohort of 2481 subjects aged > 55 years from the German screening colonoscopy program was included. The colonoscopy findings were used as the gold standard in calculating the diagnostic capacity of the tests and included 15 CRC and 257 advanced neoplasia cases. RAID-CRC Screen added to FIT20 provided the same sensitivity as FIT20 alone (66.7%) in detecting CRC and a significantly higher specificity (97.0% vs. 96.1%, p<0.0001). The positive predictive value was 11.9% when using RAID-CRC Screen and 9.5% with FIT20 alone, and the negative predictive value was 99.8% in the two scenarios. For advanced neoplasia detection, the use of RAID-CRC Screen yielded significantly lower sensitivity than with FIT20 alone (17.5% vs. 21.8%, p = 0.0009), and the overall specificity was significantly higher when using RAID-CRC Screen compared with FIT20 alone (98.2% vs. 97.8%, p = 0.0039). Our findings confirm the results obtained in previous clinical studies in a CRC screening setting, showing the potential of RAID-CRC Screen to increase the overall specificity of FIT-based screening.
Sensing chemical-induced genotoxicity and oxidative stress via yeast-based reporter assays using NanoLuc luciferase
Authors: Shichinohe Minami , Ohkawa Shun , Hirose Yuu , Eki Toshihiko
Published: November 2023

Mutagens and oxidative agents damage biomolecules, such as DNA; therefore, detecting genotoxic and oxidative chemicals is crucial for maintaining human health. To address this, we have developed several types of yeast-based reporter assays designed to detect DNA damage and oxidative stress. This study aimed to develop a novel yeast-based assay using a codon-optimized stable or unstable NanoLuc luciferase (yNluc and yNluCP) gene linked to a DNA damage- or oxidative stress-responsive promoter, enabling convenient sensing genotoxicity or oxidative stress, respectively. End-point luciferase assays using yeasts with a chromosomally integrated RNR3 promoter (PRNR3)-driven yNluc gene exhibited high levels of chemiluminescence via NanoLuc luciferase and higher fold induction by hydroxyurea than a multi-copy plasmid-based assay. Additionally, the integrated reporter system detected genotoxicity caused by four different types of chemicals. Oxidants (hydrogen peroxide, tert-butyl hydroperoxide, and menadione) were successfully detected through transient expressions of luciferase activity in real-time luciferase assay using yeasts with a chromosomally integrated TRX2 promoter (PTRX2)-linked yNlucCP gene. However, the luciferase activity was gradually induced in yeasts with a multi-copy reporter plasmid, and their expression profiles were notably distinct from those observed in chromosomally integrated yeasts. The responses of yNlucCP gene against three oxidative chemicals, but not diamide and zinc oxide suspension, were observed using chromosomally integrated reporter yeasts. Given that yeast cells with chromosomally integrated PRNR3-linked yNluc and PTRX2-linked yNlucCP genes express strong chemiluminescence signals and are easily maintained and handled without restrictive nutrient medium, these yeast strains with NanoLuc reporters may prove useful for screening potential genotoxic and oxidative chemicals.
Ethical inclusion: Risks and benefits of research from the perspective of perinatal people with opioid use disorders who have experienced incarceration
Authors: Reddy Julia , Black Kristel , Bazemore Keia , Jordan Kiva , Jackson Jamie B. , Knittel Andrea K.
Published: November 2023

Background

Research ethics guidelines and emphasis on representation in research guide the inclusion of marginalized groups, including people with perinatal opioid use disorders (OUD) and people experiencing incarceration in the United States. However, insights from participants regarding the risks and benefits of participation are not adequately considered. The aim of this study was to examine the risks and benefits of research participation from the perspective of pregnant/postpartum people with OUD who have experienced incarceration.

Design

We recruited people who had experience with perinatal incarceration and were either currently pregnant or postpartum, and at least 18 years old. All participants met the clinical criteria for OUD. Our study did not have exclusion criteria based on gender, race, or ethnicity.

Setting

Participants were either currently incarcerated at the North Carolina Correctional Institute for Women in Raleigh, North Carolina, United States or had previously experienced perinatal incarceration and were recruited from a perinatal substance use disorder treatment program located in North Carolina.

Participants

Between 9/2021-4/2022, we completed 12 interviews with pregnant/postpartum people with OUD, approximately half who were currently incarcerated and half with a recent history of perinatal incarceration.

Intervention/measurement

Interviews were conducted via Webex phone or video. The interviews followed a scripted interview guide and lasted one hour on average. Interview transcripts were analyzed using the Rigorous and Accelerated Data Reduction technique to produce an overarching thematic framework.

Findings

Our analysis identified benefits, including the personal advantage of self-expression, helping others and contributing to change, and financial incentives. Risks included stigma and breach of confidentiality, misunderstanding of the distinction between research and advocacy, and limited ability to share their whole experience.

Conclusions

Participant-identified benefits of research mirrored those from other marginalized populations, though participant-identified risks were novel and nuanced. Recruitment and consent should move beyond normative research ethics committees protocol language to consider the perspectives of participants.
BMP9 is a potent inducer of chondrogenesis, volumetric expansion and collagen type II accumulation in bovine auricular cartilage chondroprogenitors
Authors: Gardner Oliver F. W. , Zhang Yadan , Khan Ilyas M.
Published: November 2023

Reconstruction of the outer ear currently requires harvesting of cartilage from the posterior of the auricle or ribs leading to pain and donor site morbidity. An alternative source for auricular reconstruction is in vitro tissue engineered cartilage using stem/progenitor cells. Several candidate cell-types have been studied with tissue-specific auricular cartilage progenitor cells (AuCPC) of particular interest. Whilst chondrogenic differentiation of competent stem cells using growth factor TGFβ1 produces cartilage this tissue is frequently fibrocartilaginous and lacks the morphological features of hyaline cartilage. Recent work has shown that growth factor BMP9 is a potent chondrogenic and morphogenetic factor for articular cartilage progenitor cells, and we hypothesised that this property extends to cartilage-derived progenitors from other tissues. In this study we show monoclonal populations of AuCPCs from immature and mature bovine cartilage cultured with BMP9 produced cartilage pellets have 3-5-fold greater surface area in sections than those grown with TGFβ1. Increased volumetric growth using BMP9 was due to greater sGAG deposition in immature pellets and significantly greater collagen accumulation in both immature and mature progenitor pellets. Polarised light microscopy and immunohistochemical analyses revealed that the organisation of collagen fibrils within pellets is an important factor in the growth of pellets. Additionally, chondrocytes in BMP9 stimulated cell pellets had larger lacunae and were more evenly dispersed throughout the extracellular matrix. Interestingly, BMP9 tended to normalise the response of immature AuCPC monoclonal cell lines to differentiation cues whereas cells exhibited more variation under TGFβ1. In conclusion, BMP9 appears to be a potent inducer of chondrogenesis and volumetric growth for AuCPCs a property that can be exploited for tissue engineering strategies for reconstructive surgery though with the caveat of negligible elastin production following 21-day treatment with either growth factor.
Estimation of Conversion Coefficient for the Surface Velocity of Irrigation Channel
Authors:   Crisis and Emergency Management: Theory and Praxis, Kang Jin Young , Kim Da Ye , Yong Bae Jung , Seung Jin Maeng , Muhammad Azam
Published: November 2023

The continuous flow velocity monitoring has become a difficult and expensive task in hydrological survey
due to unpredictable rainfall patterns. Therefore, the velocity measurements using a non-contact type
flowmeter is more effective and easy to use. The generally used average velocity conversion factor 0.85
does not take into account the regional characteristics such as curves of a river, bed materials which
consequentially affects the vertical flow characteristics. Therefore, considering the those characteristics of
irrigation channels of two small reservoirs (Ssangam and Hangye reservoir), results showed that the gentle
bed slope of irrigation channel of the Ssangam reservoir, has a velocity conversion factor of 1.06 and the
depth-averaged velocity of V0.6, was measured to be higher compared to the surface velocity. On the other
hand, velocity conversion factor of 0.83 was computed in case of Hangye reservoir with a relatively sharp
bed slope, which is similar to the generally used velocity conversion factor of 0.85. This shows that the
bed slope is the dominant factor in affecting the depth-wise velocity characteristics of a waterway.
A Concept Analysis of Nurses’ Learning Agility
Authors:   Crisis and Emergency Management: Theory and Praxis, Yim Kyunghee , Lee Insook
Published: November 2023

This is a conceptual analysis conducted to identify the concept and properties of clinical nurses' learning agility using a hybrid model. The concept is identified through a reviewing of literature in the theoretical phase, andthen, we conducted in-depth interview using focus group interview to using of fieldwork phase. As a result of this study, nurses' learning agility was classified into four dimensions: sensitivity to change, applicability of experiential learning, responsiveness in relationships, and cognitive flexibility, and was defined by four attributes and 11 indicators. In conclusion, the learning agility of clinical nurses was defined as the ability to quickly recognize situations, to flexibly respond, and to interactively perform nursing practice based on experiential learning in newly and challenging situations. The significance of this study is that it provides a basis for understanding and promoting learning agility by identifying conceptual attributes of learning agility in clinical nurses. Based on the findings of this study, it is suggested to develop a learning agility measurement tool that reflects nurses' learning agility attributes and indicators.