bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wonder with Care: How “Crip Participation” Engages Activism
Authors: Cooley Jessica A. , Fox Ann M.
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT: This essay explores how the authors’ curatorial process has roots in wonder : how it is one of inquiry, beginning and ending with open questions. The authors describe how their “crip” curatorial methods can be used to refuse extractive practices that might result from a disengaged wonder and to generate exhibitions that hold both the viewers and the artists with the care necessary to move passive viewing into a reciprocal engagement that can lead to an activist turn. These curatorial methods acknowledge and embrace medical professionals as potentially fellow disabled people and view them as current or potential allies. Through the participatory nature of the art in the exhibitions, the gallery becomes a space of encounter, one that creates support structures for people to build out from their individual, personal experiences and to become part of something shared across people, objects, memory, and experience. However, this shared space is not intended to collapse into ever fully knowing or understanding another person’s experience. Critically, it is also a shared engagement where access to someone else’s story, or body, or memories is not freely granted. Crip curation takes seriously the intentional omissions of both viewers and artists that upend not only what we get to know but how we get to know it and emphasizes that what we get to know and how we know it necessarily remains incomplete; viewers and artists alone retain full access to their own experiences.
“Control Freaks”: Evaluating Concerns of Ableism in the Perinatal Environment
Authors: Tate Tyler
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT: This essay explores the relationship between the modern era’s impulse toward control and the practices of family planning and disability-selective abortion. Drawing from experiences as a pediatric palliative care physician working within a busy fetal care program, as well as the social theory of sociologist Hartmut Rosa, the author argues that there is an unresolved cultural and professional conflict within perinatal medicine between maximizing control of the future and maximizing a culture of anti-ableism.
Patterns of Native and Invasive Lianas of Virginia's Ridge and Valley Forests in Relation to Land Use History
Authors: Resler Lynn M. , Patil Parul Vijay , Bristow Cole , Finks Lindsay , Dolby Mitch
Published: November 2024

abstract: Lianas, or woody vines, are an often-overlooked component of forested ecosystems. Studies exploring how lianas are influenced by historical land use are scarce, particularly in temperate regions. We aimed to 1) characterize the composition, abundance, and diversity of native and non-native lianas in southwest Virginia, and 2) explain variations in the number of lianas per plot based on historical land use categories and edge or interior location. We collected data on 1303 lianas across 102 study plots, within four historical land use categories: mining, logging, agriculture, or rural townsite. We used historical records and legacy U.S. Geological Survey Topographic Maps from the Historical Topographic Map Collection to define the spatial extents of each land use type. We found 42.5% of measured trees hosted at least one liana. Native lianas were more abundant and diverse than non-native lianas within our study plots. Furthermore, historical land use, particularly in formerly logged plots, was associated with lower liana counts compared to other land use classes. Although knowledge about lianas in the mountainous regions of the Southeastern United States remains limited, it is evident that the complex historical land use legacy in our study region significantly impacts liana prevalence.
NbSe2/PtTe2 heterostructures as saturable absorbers for mid-infrared pulsed solid-state lasers
Authors: Yang Yiheng , Gao Lulu , Han Yingxue , Gao Qiong , Lan Ruijun , Shen Yingjie
Published: November 2024

We have realized for the first time, to the best of our knowledge, a 2 µm nanosecond solid-state passive Q-switched Tm:YAP laser based on a NbSe2/PtTe2 heterojunction saturable absorber. At an incident pump power of 12.69 W, the Tm:YAP laser produces stable laser pulses with a minimum pulse width of 818 ns, a maximum single-pulse energy of 15.48 µJ, and a peak power of 18.93 W at a repetition rate of 79.44 kHz. The comparison results show enhanced saturable absorption performance compared to single NbSe2 (1 µs, 70.32 kHz) and single PtTe2 (1.31 µs, 71.97 kHz). The experimental results confirm that the NbSe2/PtTe2 heterojunction is a promising saturable absorption material that can be used to realize high-performance mid-infrared pulsed lasers. The resulting nanosecond 2 µm Q-switched pulsed laser will play an important role in atmospheric monitoring, lidar, and other fields, and can provide a strong driving force.
Enhancing single-molecule localization microscopy with deep learning
Authors: Abdehkakha Armin , Madani Seyyed Mohammad Navid , Snoeyink Craig
Published: November 2024

Single-molecule localization microscopy (SMLM) has significantly improved the visualization of sub-cellular structures, but enhancing the accuracy of 3D emitter localization remains challenging. The technique relies on precisely computationally localizing sparsely activated fluorophores, with traditional methods being iterative, time-consuming, and sensitive to camera noise and overlapping point spread functions (PSFs). We introduce a deep convolutional neural network that employs an innovative architecture to effectively manage diverse emitter scenarios, from isolated to densely packed. By transforming features from the real to the complex domain to integrate axial and lateral spatial information, our method outperforms existing deep learning-based localization algorithms. Tested on simulated SMLM frames with densities up to 2.0µm−2, our approach demonstrates superior performance across varying emitter densities and signal-to-noise ratios, maintaining high accuracy even under challenging conditions.
Simulation study on supercontinuum broadening based on the BIC model
Authors: Zhang Jingjing , Sun Wenjie , He Runyu , Song Xiaoxian , Dai Zijie , Liu Yang , Pan Dong , Wu Di , Wang Yanan , Gao Zhongkun , Guan Chenshuai , Guo Kai , Chen Huan
Published: November 2024

Bound states in the continuum (BICs) refers to waves that are entirely confined within the continuous spectrum of radiation waves without interacting with them. In our study, we attempted to construct a waveguide satisfying BIC conditions by forming a polymer layer on a 4H-SiC substrate, positioned on an SiO2 insulator. By fine-tuning the waveguide parameters, we minimized losses to the substrate continuum and determined that the lowest loss meeting BIC conditions occurs when the HSQ width is 1.82 µm and the 4H-SiC thickness is 440 nm. Subsequently, we investigated the supercontinuum generation (SCG) in this waveguide. First, we analyzed the primary linear and nonlinear effects in the SCG process, introducing well-established theoretical frameworks such as the generalized nonlinear Schrödinger equation (GNLSE) for pulse propagation in nonlinear media. We then studied the influence of waveguide parameters on SCG, observing the variations in SCG with different HSQ widths and 4H-SiC thicknesses. Our results indicate that optimal spectral broadening and conversion efficiency are achieved with an HSQ width of 1.82 µm and a 4H-SiC thickness of 440 nm. In our simulations, the waveguide length was set to 1 cm, and the pump pulse was modeled as a Gaussian pulse with a width of 100 fs and a peak power of 8 W.
Absolute depth-resolved optic axis measurement with catheter-based polarization sensitive optical coherence tomography
Authors: Masoumi Shadi , Lee Jaeyul , Jones Georgia L. , Quémener Mireille , Parent Martin , Bouma Brett E. , Hariri Lida P. , Côté Daniel C. , Villiger Martin
Published: November 2024

Imaging depth-resolved birefringence and optic axis orientation with polarization sensitive optical coherence tomography (PS-OCT) unveils details of tissue structure and organization that can be of high pathophysiologic, mechanistic, and diagnostic value. For catheter-based PS-OCT, the dynamic rotation of the fiber optic probe, in addition to the polarization effects of the system components, complicates the reliable and robust reconstruction of the sample’s optic axis orientation. Addressing this issue, we present a new method for the reconstruction of absolute depth-resolved optic axis orientation in catheter-based PS-OCT by using the intrinsic retardance of the protecting catheter sheath as a stable guide star signal. Throughout the paper, we rigorously inspect the retardance and optic axis orientation of the sheath and validate our method by imaging a birefringent phantom with known optic axis orientation. Reconstructing the optic axis orientation of the phantom, placed at different locations around the catheter, we measured an average absolute deviation (AAD) for the mean optic axis orientation over cross-sectional images of 3.28°, even with significant bending stress on the catheter. This corresponds to an almost three-fold improvement compared to our earlier method (optic axis AAD of 9.41°). We finally highlight the capability of our reconstruction with stereotactic catheter-based PS-OCT of a fresh sheep brain.
Do diffractive intraocular lenses break the beneficial interaction between chromatic and monochromatic aberrations in the eye?
Authors: Clavé Laura , Millan Maria S.
Published: November 2024

This study investigates whether a diffractive presbyopia-correcting multifocal intraocular lens disrupts the favorable interaction between chromatic and monochromatic aberrations in the eye. This is analyzed not only for distant objects but also for closer viewing distances, where the lens utilizes different diffraction orders depending on its design. We consider diffractive designs based on the zero-diffraction order for far vision and the first diffraction order for near vision (i.e., 0F/+1N design). Within the limitations of clinical visual acuity examination in various groups of subjects, our results prove that diffractive presbyopia-correcting lenses with 0F/+1N design preserve the beneficial interaction between chromatic and monochromatic aberrations at both far and near vision. The results are obtained for lenses with varying energy efficiency distributions between the far and near focal points, ranging from balanced (bifocal contact lens) to far-dominant (50% far, 30% near in a trifocal intraocular lens) configurations. These findings are specific to the 0F/+1N design and cannot be extrapolated to other diffractive lens types.
Dual-sweep high-precision FMCW ranging based on distance spectrum reconstruction
Authors: Lu Cheng , Liu Jingyang , Yu Zehao , Liu Guodong
Published: November 2024

This study aims to enhance the measurement accuracy of a dual-sweep frequency modulated continuous wave (FMCW) system used for Doppler compensation for non-cooperative targets in vibration environments. A distance spectrum reconstruction algorithm was developed to improve the ranging accuracy of the dual-sweep FMCW system, and its feasibility was validated through simulation and experimental data. Experiments yielded a standard deviation of 12.12 µm for a measured distance of about 10 m. The proposed method effectively mitigates the colored noise introduced by multiplication without increasing hardware complexity, thereby enhancing measurement accuracy. Thus, the proposed method can provide excellent outcomes in long-distance measurements of non-cooperative targets using FMCW ranging systems.
Optical skyrmions and tunable fine spin structures in deep-subwavelength scale at metal/graded index material interfaces
Authors: Xie Xiangyang , Wu Jingya , Shi Peng , Yuan Xiaocong
Published: November 2024

A skyrmion is a topological quasiparticle that has been studied widely in nuclear physics, condensed matter physics, cosmology, and optics. Previously, the optical skyrmions in the surface plasmon polaritons platform were not tunable because the dielectric properties of the material were fixed. In the study, we introduce the graded refractive index materials into the near-field optical system and systematically investigate the propagation properties, dispersion relations, and spin-orbit decomposition of the surface waves at the metal/graded refractive index materials interface. Our theoretical results exhibit that the topological spin skyrmions can be formed in the system and the dimensions of optical skyrmions can be tuned by varying the central permittivity and exponent of the graded refractive index materials. Additionally, the spin fine structure, in which the spin state varies sharply from the ‘up’ state to the ‘down’ state, can be also controlled by adjusting the materials properties of the graded refractive index materials. The minimal full width of the spin fine structure is 0.254λ, which has the potential for achieving the displacement metrology with a sensitivity of 2.54 × 10−7λ theoretically. Our findings provide an extra degree of freedom to control the formation and scale of fine spin structures in optical skyrmions and open an avenue for next-generation pico-photonics.
Optical bound states in the continuum in metallic gratings with compound lattices
Authors: Zhou Qingjia , Li Songsong , Shao Weijia , Gao Lei , Fu Yangyang , Xu Yadong
Published: November 2024

Bound states in the continuum (BICs) are completely localized modes with no radiation but existing within the continuous spectrum of radiating waves. In photonic crystals, accidental BICs arise from total complete interference and cancellation of two or more resonances in radiation channels. However, for a perfect conducting grating with subwavelength grooves, achieving an accidental BIC is challenging due to lacking of modes. Here, we realize and manipulate accidental BICs in perfect conducting gratings with subwavelength grooves. The gratings feature compound lattice structures, and BICs emerge as a result of the coupling of fundamental modes supported by different grooves in the superlattice. The evolution of BICs is revealed by investigating the surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs) of uniform gratings. Furthermore, we demonstrate that BICs inherit the properties of SPPs in uniform gratings and it is confirmed by comparing the filed distributions of BIC and SPPs. Our work presents a promising method for realizing and tuning of accidental BICs in metallic gratings at low frequencies, which would contribute to the application of plasmonic BICs.
Ultrafast laser direct writing of in-line polarizers based on nano-gratings
Authors: Xiu Longwang , Wang Yu , Hu Xinyu , Pang Yuxi , Liu Yanfei , Cao Xiangdong
Published: November 2024

In-line polarizers play an important role in the emerging quantum computing, integrated photonics, and ultrafast science. However, to our knowledge, no one has actually used in-line polarizers based on nano-gratings (NGs) in those research fields. Here, we present a novel approach to write a fiber polarizer that utilizes nano-gratings directly within the fiber core for the first time to our knowledge. An optical fiber polarizer measuring 1 mm in length, 2.5 dB in polarization-dependent loss (PDL), and 2 dB in insertion loss was developed and initially utilized for the artificially saturable absorber nonlinear polarization evolution (NPE) experiment. In the experiment, several nonlinear transmission curves are measured. In-line polarizers based on nano-gratings are expected to be used in future integrated optical chips because of their small size and easy direct writing.
Directly accessing the single-soliton state of a Kerr microcomb and its universal scaling law [Invited]
Authors: Sun Wenhan , Li Jingwei , Wang Ruixuan , Li Qing
Published: November 2024

Soliton microcombs have attracted considerable research interest due to their unique properties. Being able to directly access the single-soliton state in a Kerr microresonator simplifies the device operation and may inspire new applications. However, the general conditions leading to such operations are not well understood. In this work, we aim to elucidate the key factors enabling the direct access of the single-soliton state in a Kerr microresonator by combining the experimental results in an integrated silicon carbide platform and a comprehensive analysis based on the normalized Lugiato-Lefever equation. A general criterion linking the Kerr nonlinearity, dispersion, and thermo-optic properties has been derived, which is applicable to Kerr microresonators with varied materials, sizes, optical quality factors, and dispersion.
Multifunctional hybrid plasmonic gates using the effect of voltage on the surface plasmons frequency change
Authors: Jafargholikhani Fatemeh , Kashaninia Alireza , Sabbaghi-Nadooshan Reza
Published: November 2024

Development of plasmonic technology has accelerated in recent years, especially considering the benefits of reducing the scattering limit on bends and low losses as well as the small elemental size. In this paper, the effect of voltage application on changing the frequency of surface plasmons is investigated. Our hybrid device controls light sources using electric voltage. By applying an external voltage to the metal plates and creating a magnetic field, the density of the electrons on the metal surface changes; thus, surface plasmons resonance frequency shifts. To this end, a multifunctional plasmonic gate with a dimension of 95 nm × 95 nm was designed and simulated to evaluate this effect. This structure is suitable for use as AND, NOR, NOT, XOR, and NAND gates. The contrast ratio between the change of state from logic “0” to logic “1” is approximately 29 dB, and the transfer ratio (transmittance ratio) of output in logic “1” is over 85%. The proposed device has low dimensions, a high contrast ratio, and a high transmittance ratio. This device uses four gates: AND, NOR, NOT, XOR, and NAND, which can be achieved in plasmonic integrated circuits with the wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) technique.
Coherence memory and amnesia in a mode-locked Mamyshev oscillator
Authors: Cao Bo , Liu Zhongshu , Gao Chenxin , Jiao Zhenghao , Wang Yifei , Yang Changxi , Bao Chengying
Published: November 2024

Self-organization of temporal modes in mode-locked lasers usually
starts from quantum noise. In this process, incoherent spontaneous
emission is steered into coherent ultrashort pulses by dissipation and
nonlinearity. In this work, we investigated self-organization dynamics
in a mode-locked Mamyshev oscillator starting from coherent pulse
seeds as opposed to quantum noise. We observed that the coherence of
the seed can be remembered or forgotten during the mode-locking
transition, depending on the initial inverse population. The excessive
nonlinearity in the coherence amnesia regime can devastate the seed
coherence, while this coherence is retained in the transition for the
memory regime. A heterodyne technique was developed to record the fast
varying optical phase and characterize these two transition pathways.
Dissipative soliton molecules were synthesized from external pulse
pair seeds via the coherence memory pathway. In this case, a plateau
of the generated pulse spacing independent of seed pulse spacing was
observed. Moreover, we show that pulse seeds can be used for laser
reconfiguration and optical pulse buffering. Our work paves a way to
control transient pulse dynamics and relative pulse timing on demand
in mode-locked lasers.
Facilitators and barriers to decision-making for hospital treatment among patients diagnosed with breast cancer in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania: A qualitative urban-based study
Authors: Dominic Pascal Mkaka , Iseselo Masunga K. , Athanas Raymond
Published: November 2024

Background

Breast cancer is a major public health problem in both developed and developing countries and has become the second leading cause of death among women worldwide. The mortality may be related to delayed or inappropriate treatment decision-making among the diagnosed patients. Decision-making is an important determinant for successful treatment for patients diagnosed with breast cancer. In Tanzania, there is a lack of information in the context of facilitators and barriers to treatment decision-making after a breast cancer diagnosis. This study aimed to explore facilitators and barriers to treatment decision-making among cancer patients in Tanzania.

Material and methods

A descriptive qualitative design was employed to explore the facilitators and barriers to treatment decision-making at Ocean Road Cancer Institute in Dar es Salaam. A purposive sampling technique was used to recruit fourteen female patients diagnosed with breast cancer. Data were collected through in-depth, semi-structured interviews, which were audio-recorded. A thematic approach was used to analyze the data.

Findings

Two major themes emerged from the study findings, namely; facilitators to treatment decision-making such as patient understanding of treatment information, and healthcare providers’ support. Barriers to treatment decision-making include the cost of treatment, uncertainty about cancer treatment, and religious healing.

Conclusion

This study found that practising decision‐making for hospital treatment remains a challenge for patients diagnosed with breast cancer. Patients’ understanding of treatment information and healthcare providers’ support are the main tools that can facilitate decision-making. Sensitization activities on breast cancer treatment in the community and coverage of insurance should be advocated to promote decision-making for hospital treatment.
Assessment of airborne bacteria from a public health institution in Mexico City
Authors: Calderón-Ezquerro Maria Carmen , Ponce de León A. Alfredo , Brunner-Mendoza Carolina , Guerrero-Guerra C. César , Sanchez-Flores Alejandro , Salinas-Peralta Ilse , López Jacome Luis Esau , Colín Castro C. Claudia Adriana , Martínez Zavaleta María Guadalupe
Published: November 2024

In this work, the composition of the bacterial community in the air of a hospital in Mexico City was evaluated using metabarcoding and proteomics approaches, along with the assessment of environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and suspended particles. Two types of aerobiological samplers were used: Andersen One-Stage Viable Particle Sampler (AVPS) and Coriolis μ sampler (CμS-Sampler). Sampling was performed in four areas of the hospital: Floor 1 (F1), Floor 2 (F2), and Emergency Unit (EU), as well as outdoors (OH). The use of both samplers showed variations in diversity and composition. Bacterial abundance was 89.55% with the CμS-Sampler and 74.00% with the AVPS. The predominant phyla with the AVPS were Firmicutes, Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria, while with the CμS-Sampler, the main phyla were Proteobacteria, followed by Actinobacteria and Firmicutes. The highest diversity and richness of bacteria was recorded in F1 and F2, with 32 species identified, with a greater number within the hospital. Potentially pathogenic bacteria such as Bacillus spp., B. cereus, B. pumilus, Clostridium spp., Enterococcus gallinarum, Micrococcus luteus and Staphylococcus spp. were detected. Furthermore, a high concentration of particles between 2.5 μm and 10 μm, and Total Particulate Matter (TPM) was observed, with values of TPM, 303 μg/m3 in F1, 195 μg/m3 in F2, 235 μg/m3 in EU and 188 μg/m3 in OH. Temperatures averaged between 26 and 27°C, and relative humidity ranged between 39.8 and 43.5%. These environmental conditions and particulate matter can promote bacterial growth and their dispersion in the air, constituting a continuous risk of exposure to pathogens, mainly in indoor areas of the hospital. This study provides a framework for air monitoring, where the results of different samplers complement the detection of potential pathogens.
Heart function enhancement by an Nrf2-activating antioxidant in acute Y-strain Chagas disease, but not in chronic Colombian or Y-strain
Authors: Mata-Santos Hilton Antônio , Sousa Oliveira Camila Victória , Feijo Daniel F. , Vanzan Daniel Figueiredo , Vilar-Pereira Glaucia , Ramos Isalira P. , Carneiro Vitor Coutinho , Moreno-Loaiza Oscar , Silverio Jaline Coutinho , Lannes-Vieira Joseli , Medei Emiliano , Bozza Marcelo T. , Paiva Claudia N.
Published: November 2024

Oxidative stress promotes T. cruzi growth and development of chronic Chagas heart dysfunction. However, the literature contains gaps that must be fulfilled, largely due to variations in parasite DTU sources, cell types, mouse strains, and tools to manipulate redox status. We assessed the impact of oxidative environment on parasite burden in cardiomyoblasts and the effects of the Nrf2-inducer COPP on heart function in BALB/c mice infected with either DTU-II Y or DTU-I Colombian T. cruzi strains. Treatment with antioxidants CoPP, apocynin, resveratrol, and tempol reduced parasite burden in cardiomyoblasts H9C2 for both DTUI- and II-strains, while H2O2 increased it. CoPP treatment improved electrical heart function when administered during acute stage of Y-strain infection, coinciding with an overall trend towards increased survival and reduced heart parasite burden. These beneficial effects surpassed those of trypanocidal benznidazole, implying that CoPP directly affects heart physiology. CoPP treatment had beneficial impact on heart systolic function when performed during acute and evaluated during chronic stage. No impact of CoPP on heart parasite burden, electrical, or mechanical function was observed during the chronic stage of Colombian-strain infection, despite previous demonstrations of improvement with other antioxidants. Treatment with CoPP also did not improve heart function of mice chronically infected with Y-strain. Our findings indicate that amastigote growth is responsive to changes in oxidative environment within heart cells regardless of the DTU source, but CoPP influence on heart parasite burden in vivo and heart function is mostly confined to the acute phase. The nature of the antioxidant employed, T. cruzi DTU, and the stage of disease, emerge as crucial factors to consider in heart function studies.
Clinical and molecular characteristics associated with high PD-L1 expression in EGFR-mutated lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Slomka Jeremy , Berthou Hugo , Mansuet-Lupo Audrey , Blons Hélène , Fabre Elizabeth , Lerner Ivan , Rance Bastien , Alifano Marco , Chapron Jeanne , Birsen Gary , Gibault Laure , Arrondeau Jennifer , Leroy Karen , Wislez Marie
Published: November 2024

Objective

Recent evidence suggests that elevated levels of PD-L1 expression may be linked to early resistance to TKI and reduced survival in NSCLC with EGFR mutations. This study aimed to characterize the clinical and molecular features of EGFR-mutated lung adenocarcinomas and determine the prognostic significance associated with high PD-L1 expression.

Materials and methods

We conducted a retrospective chart review of 103 consecutive patients with advanced EGFR-mutated NSCLC, who received treatment between 01/01/2016 and 30/12/2020, at our institution.

Results

Among the tumors, 17% (n = 18) exhibited high PD-L1 expression (≥50% tumor proportion score), which was associated with a lower prevalence of common EGFR mutations (56% vs. 82%, p = 0.03) and a higher frequency of complex EGFR mutations (28% vs. 7%, p = 0.02). Univariate analysis did not reveal any significant differences in first-line response, progression-free survival, or overall survival between the PD-L1 ≥50% and <50% groups. However, multivariate analysis demonstrated that PD-L1 ≥50% was independently associated with shorter survival (HR = 2.57; 95%CI[1.20–5.55]; p = 0.02), along with male gender (HR = 2.77; 95%CI[1.54–4.19]; p<0.005), presence of liver metastases (HR = 5.80; 95%CI[2.86–11.75]; p<0.005) or brain metastases (HR = 1.99; 95%CI[1.13–3.52]; p = 0.02), and poor general condition at diagnosis (ECOG 3 and 4) (HR = 10.69; 95% CI[4.42–25.85]; p<0.005). Additionally, a trend towards a higher frequency of de novo resistance was observed in the PD-L1 >50% group (7% vs. 17%, p = 0.19).

Conclusion

High PD-L1 expression was more commonly found in lung adenocarcinomas with uncommon and complex EGFR mutations. Furthermore, high PD-L1 expression independently predicted poor survival. These findings warrant validation through prospective studies.
A multi-proxy approach to reconstruct chronology, human mobility, and funerary practices at the Late Bronze-Early Iron Age urnfield of San Valentino (San Vito al Tagliamento, Italy)
Authors: Capuzzo Giacomo , Stamataki Elisavet , Beck De Lotto Michael Allen , Pettarin Silvia , Claeys Philippe , Mattielli Nadine , Tasca Giovanni , Snoeck Christophe
Published: November 2024

The site of San Valentino in San Vito al Tagliamento is one of the main urnfield cemeteries in northeastern Italy. Archaeological excavations carried out in the seventies brought to light a cremation cemetery consisting of mainly urn graves with pottery and metal artefacts as grave goods. These materials suggest that the individuals buried in San Valentino were not an isolated local community but had intense contacts with other north-Adriatic communities, in particular with the neighbouring Veneto area, as suggested by the close similarity of the biconical vessels with those recovered in the graves of Este. This paper provides the first osteological study of a preserved sample of individuals buried at San Valentino and uses an innovative multi-proxy approach to refine the chronology of the site through radiocarbon dating of bone apatite, investigate human mobility using strontium isotopes on calcined human remains, and reconstruct the funerary practices by combining FTIR-ATR data with carbon and oxygen isotope ratios on cremated bones. The results date the cemetery to the end of the Late Bronze Age and the Early Iron Age, with a sporadic occupation in the fourth century BC. Strontium isotopes and concentrations show the analysed individuals buried at San Valentino were a local community that exploited nearby food resources. Interestingly, variations in cremation conditions were detected between San Valentino and the contemporary sites of Velzeke, Blicquy, Grand Bois, and Herstal, located in Belgium, by using FTIR-ATR and carbon and oxygen isotope data. This multi-proxy approach applied to the study of cremated human remains can open new research possibilities, being potentially extendable to the study of many pre- and proto-historic and historic communities that practised cremation.
Workforce development in community pharmacies in England: Opportunities and tensions for a private sector provider of NHS services
Authors: Astbury Jayne L. , Jacobs Sally , McDermott Imelda , Willis Sarah C. , Moss Aidan , Stearns Selma , Fenton Catherine , Hindi Ali M. K. , Seston Elizabeth M. , Schafheutle Ellen I.
Published: November 2024

Background

The intention to more effectively mobilise and integrate the capabilities of the community pharmacy workforce within primary care is clearly stated within National Health Service (NHS) England policy. The Pharmacy Integration Fund (PhIF) was established in 2016 to support the development of clinical pharmacy practice in a range of primary care settings, including community pharmacy.

Objective

This study sought to determine how PhIF funded learning pathways for post-registration pharmacists and accuracy checking pharmacy technicians enabled community pharmacy workforce transformation, in what circumstances, and why.

Methods

Realist evaluation. We identified two main programme theories underpinning the PhIF programme and tested these theories against data collected through 41 semi-structured qualitative interviews with community pharmacist and pharmacy technician learners, educational supervisors, and community pharmacy employers.

Results

The data supported the initial programme theories and indicated that the learning pathway for post-registration pharmacists had also provided opportunity for pharmacists to develop and consolidate their clinical skills before pursuing an independent prescribing qualification. Employer support was a key factor influencing learner participation, whilst employer engagement was mediated by perceptions of value expectancy and clarity of purpose. The study also highlights the influence of contextual factors within the community pharmacy setting on opportunities for the application of learning in practice.

Conclusions

When designing and implementing workforce transformation plans and funded service opportunities that require the engagement of a diverse range of private, for-profit businesses within a mixed economy setting, policymakers should consider the contextual factors and mechanisms influencing participation of all stakeholder groups.
Variation between surgeons in reoperation rates following vertical strabismus surgery: Associations with patient and surgeon characteristics and adjustable sutures
Authors: Leffler Christopher T. , Woock Alicia , Shinbashi Meagan , Suggs Melissa
Published: November 2024

Purpose

To quantify inter-surgeon variation in vertical strabismus surgery reoperation rates, and to explore associations of reoperation rate with practice type and volume, surgical techniques, and patient characteristics.

Methods

Fee-for-service payments to providers in a national database for Medicare beneficiaries having vertical strabismus surgery between 2012 and 2020 were retrospectively analyzed to identify reoperations in the same calendar year. Predictors of the rate of reoperation for each surgeon were determined by multivariable linear regression.

Results

Among 73 surgeons, the reoperation rate for 1-vertical muscle surgery varied from 0.0% to 40.7%. Due to the presence of high-volume surgeons with high reoperation rates, just 11% of surgeons contributed over half of the reoperation events for 1-vertical muscle surgery. Use of adjustable sutures, surgeon gender, and surgical volume were not independently associated with surgeon reoperation rate. Associations of reoperation with patient characteristics, such as age and poverty, were explored. Patient poverty was independently associated with a lower surgeon reoperation rate (p = 0.03). Still, the multivariable model could explain only 14.2% of the variation in surgeon reoperation rate for 1-vertical muscle.

Conclusions

Patient-level analyses which ignore inter-surgeon variation will be dominated by the practices of a small number of high-volume, high-reoperation surgeons. There are order-of-magnitude variations in reoperation rates among strabismus surgeons, the cause of which remains largely unexplained.
Off-grid hydroacoustic signal orientation estimation based on interpolation and subspace fitting in coprime arrays
Authors: Xing Chuanxi , Tan Guangzhi , Meng Qiang , Ran Yanling , Lu Mao
Published: November 2024

This letter presents a novel approach to sparse Bayesian underwater acoustic signal direction estimation. The proposed method incorporates interpolation of the coprime array and signal subspace fitting. It addresses the limitations of the hydrophone coprime array in utilizing all array elements’ information and mitigates the interference of ocean noise in shallow waters, which impairs the accuracy and resolution of target direction estimation. Firstly, the hydroacoustic signals are received using a coprime array, then the missing information is filled by interpolating the virtual array elements in the virtual domain, and by optimizing the design of the atomic norm and reconstructing the covariance matrix, the direction-of-arrival (DOA) estimation is performed using all the information of the received signal. Then, the received signal is reconstructed in conjunction with the reconstructed covariance signal subspace, which effectively reduces the impact of background noise. Finally, we derive an off-grid sparse model for the reconstructed signal by exploiting sparsity in the null domain and use Bayesian learning to compute the maximum a posteriori probability of the source signal, thus achieving DOA estimation. The results of numerical simulations and sea trial experimental data indicate that the use of subarrays comprising 5 and 3 array elements, respectively, is sufficient to effectively estimate 12 source angles. Furthermore, the estimation of the DOA can be accurately carried out under low signal-to-noise ratio conditions. This method effectively utilizes the degrees of freedom provided by the virtual array, reducing noise interference, and exhibiting better performance in terms of positioning accuracy and algorithm stability.
Women’s preferences for caesarean or vaginal birth with a perspective of future fertility: A discrete choice experiment
Authors: Crispin James D. , Mol Ben W. , van Wely Madelon , Rolnik Daniel L.
Published: November 2024

Objective

To investigate pregnant women’s preferences for risks of vaginal and caesarean birth, including possible impacts on future fertility.

Methods

In this discrete choice experiment, low-risk nulliparous pregnant women recruited after 28 weeks of gestation evaluated eight choice sets, each between two different hypothetical births scenarios which intermixed the risks of planned caesarean or vaginal birth. Scenarios consisted of six attributes: pain, maternal health, neonatal health, risk of unplanned intervention, impact on fertility and risk of complications in the next pregnancy. All scenarios contained risks to neonatal health as neither vaginal nor caesarean birth guarantee an ideal outcome. Choice data were analysed using a conditional logistic regression model.

Results

Between June and September 2023, 211 participants, including 34 from pilot interviews, completed the questionnaire. Influential attributes were maternal health (conditional odds ratio [COR] 1.29, 95% CI 1.17 to 1.42, p<0.001) and risk of unplanned intervention (COR 1.37, 95% CI 1.24 to 1.51, p<0.001), favouring caesarean birth. Conversely, impact on fertility (COR 0.75, 95% CI 0.68 to 0.83, p<0.001) and complications in the next pregnancy favoured vaginal birth (COR 0.90, 95% CI 0.82 to 1.00, p = 0.045).

Conclusions

Participants weighed the included morbidity risks of planned caesarean and vaginal birth in a low-risk pregnancy approximately equally. To facilitate an informed birth decision, clinicians should, apart from neonatal outcomes, particularly consider discussing impacts on fertility, maternal health and the risks of unplanned intervention or future pregnancy complications.
Longitudinal changes in sleep and sleep-related symptoms among Korean adults between 2010 to 2022, including the COVID-19 pandemic period
Authors: Park Hea Ree , Lee Seo-Young , Moon Hye-Jin , Kim Jee Hyun , Cho Jae Wook , Cho Yong Won , Yun Chang-Ho , Han Su-Hyun , Chu Min Kyung
Published: November 2024

Background and purpose

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has significantly impacted people’s lifestyles, changing sleep patterns. This study investigated changes in sleep patterns and disturbances in South Koreans over the past decade, including during the pandemic.

Methods

We compared data from the Korean Sleep Headache Society Phase I survey (n = 2484; conducted in 2010) and the National Sleep Survey of South Korea 2022 (n = 3729; conducted in 2022), involving participants aged 20–69 years. Changes in sleep schedule, sleep duration, social jet lag, insomnia, and daytime sleepiness were explored.

Results

Workday bedtimes were advanced and free-day bedtimes and workday and free-day waking times were delayed during the pandemic. Increased circadian preference for eveningness and social jet lag were noted. A significant decrease in sleep duration and sleep efficiency, along with an increased prevalence of insomnia and daytime sleepiness, was noted with age- and sex-specific variations.

Conclusions

Over the past decade, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, sleep habits have changed significantly and sleep problems worsened. This study emphasize the need for more comprehensive public health strategies and research to facilitate sleep recovery in the post-pandemic period within a society known for its high prevalence of sleep deprivation.
Exploring the efficacy of identity priming and message framing in influencing American attitudes toward trophy hunting
Authors: Rozing Eden , Rubino Elena C. , Turner Amber , Larasatie Pipiet
Published: November 2024

In the United States, the general public typically disapproves of trophy hunting. Given the global ubiquity of the practice, its potential to benefit conservation when properly managed, and the substantial role played by American hunter-tourists, changing these attitudes can help to maintain the practice as a wildlife management tool. Existing trophy hunting communications, which are currently neither well-designed nor widely distributed, are unable to effectively do so. We used an online survey to explore current American attitudes regarding trophy hunting and assess the efficacy of different messaging strategies in influencing these attitudes. Respondents were randomly sorted into nine treatment groups, each of which received both an identity-focused priming item (or lack thereof, as a control) and a message about trophy hunting. The priming items prompted respondents to consider either their personal values (personal identity) or political affiliation (social identity) before reading their assigned message. All three messages evaluated in this study contained a brief informative paragraph about trophy hunting, and additional information concerning either the ecological or socioeconomic benefits associated with the practice was appended onto this paragraph for respondents assigned to treatments featuring an experimental message frame. Based on the responses of 2000 U.S. residents, we found that negative attitudes regarding trophy hunting were pervasive and resistant to change. Messages framed around the ecological or socioeconomic benefits of managed trophy hunting slightly increased approval for the practice, but identity-focused priming items had no comparable effect. Additionally, respondents’ trust in the messages varied by source. This research represents a novel approach to understanding and changing public attitudes toward a highly controversial form of hunting through scientifically informed messaging. While our findings suggest several areas of improvement specifically for future trophy hunting communications, they may also be applied to outreach efforts concerning other contentious wildlife management issues.
Assessing the energy load and environmental footprint of potash fertilizer production in Iran
Authors: Shahvarooghi Farahani Saeid , Zamanifard Hossein , Taki Morteza
Published: November 2024

The goal of this research was to analyze the energy and environmental impact of KCL and K2SO4 production and provide recommendations for enhancing energy efficiency and environmental practices. Data was collected through face-to-face interviews at two potash plants and the CML methodology was employed to assess impact categories. Inventory data for production inputs were sourced from the Ecoinvent, BUWAL 250, and LCA Food DK databases within the Simapro 8.03.14 software. The results showed that the production of one ton of K2O as KCL and K2SO4, required 7080.82 and 15691.5 MJ, respectively. Electricity accounted for 52.96% of energy input in KCL production, whereas fuel oil constituted 38.39% in K2SO4 production. Energy ratios, energy productivity and specific energy for K2SO4 was 0.40, 0.06 kgMJ-1, and 15.6 MJkg-1, while corresponding indices for KCL were 0.90, 0.14 kgMJ-1 and 7.08 MJkg-1, respectively. In KCL production, electricity had eight impact categories, while the use of KCL as a raw material in K2SO4 production had significant effects on seven impact categories. Considering the vast and unoccupied space available in Iran’s great desert, where the KCL plant is situated, the installation of a photovoltaic power station near the plant could greatly enhance energy efficiency and reduce emissions.
Genetic characterization and selection of litter size traits of Guizhou Black goat and Meigu goat
Authors: Zhao Yanpin , Han Yong , Yang Yang , Yuan Chao , Long Yong , Xiao Wen
Published: November 2024

The aim of this study is to explore the genetic characteristics of Guizhou Black goats and Meigu goats and their relationship to reproductive performance through population structure analysis, genetic diversity assessment, and selection signal analysis. Blood samples of 19 Guizhou Black goats and 11 Meigu goats were collected for whole-genome high-throughput sequencing. Using PCA and ADMIXTURE analyses, their population structure and genetic relationships were revealed. Further genetic diversity analysis showed that although there is significant population differentiation, the levels of genetic diversity are similar. Subsequently, these goats were categorized into high-yield and low-yield groups based on their litter sizes, with 15 goats in each group. Then, a selection signal analysis was performed using FST and π ratios for 33,563 SNP loci. The results identified six candidate genes, including KCNIP4, GFRA2, and DGKH, which are significantly associated with high litter performance. These findings enhanced our understanding of the genetic characteristics and population structure of Guizhou Black goats and Meigu goats. Moreover, they provide an important theoretical foundation and scientific basis for further breeding improvements.
Reduction of antisense transcription affects bovine leukemia virus replication and oncogenesis
Authors: Joris Thomas , Jouant Thomas , Jacques Jean-Rock , Gouverneur Lorian , Saintmard Xavier , Vilanova Mañá Lea , Jamakhani Majeed , Reichert Michal , Willems Luc
Published: November 2024

In sheep infected with bovine leukemia virus (BLV), transcription of structural, enzymatic, and accessory genes is silenced. However, the BLV provirus transcribes a series of non-coding RNAs that remain undetected by the host immune response. Specifically, three RNAs (AS1-L, AS1-S, and AS2) are consistently expressed from the antisense strand, originating from transcriptional initiation at the 3’-Long Terminal Repeat (LTR). To investigate the role of these non-coding RNAs in viral replication and pathogenesis, a reverse genetics approach was devised, capitalizing on a mechanistic disparity in transcription initiation between the 5’ and 3’ promoters. A two-nucleotide mutation (GG>TA) in the TFIIB-recognition element (BRE) impaired antisense transcription originating from the 3’-LTR. In the context of the provirus, this 2bp mutation significantly diminished the expression of antisense RNAs, while not notably affecting sense transcription. When inoculated to sheep, the mutated provirus was infectious but exhibited reduced replication levels, shedding light on the role of antisense transcription in vivo. In comparison to lymphoid organs in sheep infected with a wild-type (WT) provirus, the mutant demonstrated alterations in both the spatial distribution and rates of cell proliferation in the lymph nodes and the spleen. Analysis through RNA sequencing and RT-qPCR unveiled an upregulation of the Hmcn1/hemicentin-1 gene in B-lymphocytes from sheep infected with the mutated provirus. Further examination via confocal microscopy and immunohistochemistry revealed an increase in the amount of hemicentin-1 protein encoded by Hmcn1 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and lymphoid organs of sheep infected with the mutant. RNA interference targeting Hmcn1 expression impacted the migration of ovine kidney (OVK) cells in vitro. In contrast to the WT, the mutated provirus showed reduced oncogenicity when inoculated into sheep. Collectively, this study underscores the essential role of antisense transcription in BLV replication and pathogenicity. These findings may offer valuable insights into understanding the relevance of antisense transcription in the context of human T-cell leukemia virus (HTLV-1).