bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamic refraction and anterior segment OCT biometry during accommodation
Authors: Durkee Heather , Ruggeri Marco , Rohman Leana , Williams Siobhan , Ho Arthur , Parel Jean-Marie , Manns Fabrice
Published: March 2024

Accommodation is the process by which the eye changes focus. These
changes are the result of changes to the shape of the crystalline
lens. Few prior studies have quantified the relation between lens
shape and ocular accommodation, primarily at discrete static
accommodation states. We present an instrument that enables
measurements of the relation between changes in lens shape and changes
in optical power continuously during accommodation. The system
combines an autorefractor to measure ocular power, a visual fixation
target to stimulate accommodation, and an optical coherence tomography
(OCT) system to image the anterior segment and measure ocular
distances. Measurements of ocular dimensions and refraction acquired
dynamically on three human subjects are presented. The individual
accommodative responses are analyzed to correlate the ocular power
changes with changes in ocular dimensions.
Oxygenation heterogeneity facilitates spatiotemporal flow pattern visualization inside human blood vessels using photoacoustic computed tomography
Authors: Kong Siying , Zuo Hongzhi , Wu Chuhua , Liu Ming-Yuan , Ma Cheng
Published: March 2024

Hemodynamics can be explored through various biomedical imaging techniques. However, observing transient spatiotemporal variations in the saturation of oxygen (sO2) within human blood vessels proves challenging with conventional methods. In this study, we employed photoacoustic computed tomography (PACT) to reconstruct the evolving spatiotemporal patterns in a human vein. Through analysis of the multi-wavelength photoacoustic (PA) spectrum, we illustrated the dynamic distribution within blood vessels. Additionally, we computationally rendered the dynamic process of venous blood flowing into the major vein and entering a branching vessel. Notably, we successfully recovered, in real time, the parabolic wavefront profile of laminar flow inside a deep vein in vivo—a first-time achievement. While the study is preliminary, the demonstrated capability of dynamic sO2 imaging holds promise for new applications in biology and medicine.
Tip-induced nanoscale domain engineering in x-cut lithium niobate on insulator
Authors: Ma Jianan , Zheng Ningchong , Chen Pengcheng , Xu Xiaoyi , Zhu Yunzhi , Nie Yuefeng , Zhu Shining , Xiao Min , Zhang Yong
Published: March 2024

Nanodomain engineering in lithium niobate on insulator (LNOI) is critical to realize advanced photonic circuits. Here, we investigate the tip-induced nanodomain formation in x-cut LNOI. The effective electric field exhibits a mirror symmetry, which can be divided into preceding and sequential halves according to the tip movement. Under our configuration, the preceding electric field plays a decisive role rather than the sequential one as in previous reports. The mechanism is attributed to the screening field formed by the preceding field counteracting the effect of the subsequent one. In experiment, we successfully fabricate nanodomain dots, lines, and periodic arrays. Our work offers a useful approach for nanoscale domain engineering in x-cut LNOI, which has potential applications in integrated optoelectronic devices.
High-sensitivity fiber-tip acoustic sensor with ultrathin gold diaphragm
Authors: Tong Yuanbiao , Pan Chenxinyu , Li Zhiyong , Chen Hongbo , Xue Dongsheng , Cheng Lin , Zhen Yuqi , Zhang Tong , Gao Yang , Zhang Lei , Guo Xin , Tong Limin , Wang Pan
Published: March 2024

Miniature acoustic sensors with high sensitivity are highly desired for applications in medical photoacoustic imaging, acoustic communications and industrial nondestructive testing. However, conventional acoustic sensors based on piezoelectric, piezoresistive and capacitive detectors usually require a large element size on a millimeter to centimeter scale to achieve a high sensitivity, greatly limiting their spatial resolution and the application in space-confined sensing scenarios. Herein, by using single-crystal two-dimensional gold flakes (2DGFs) as the sensing diaphragm of an extrinsic Fabry-Perot interferometer on a fiber tip, we demonstrate a miniature optical acoustic sensor with high sensitivity. Benefiting from the ultrathin thickness (∼8 nm) and high reflectivity of the 2DGF, the fiber-tip acoustic sensor gives an acoustic pressure sensitivity of ∼300 mV/Pa in the frequency range from 100 Hz to 20 kHz. The noise-equivalent pressure of the fiber-tip acoustic sensor at the frequency of 13 kHz is as low as 62.8 µPa/Hz1/2, which is one or two orders of magnitude lower than that of reported optical acoustic sensors with the same size.
Comparing the laser-induced damage distribution in POFs with raytracing simulations
Authors: Kiedrowski Kevin , Ferraro Mario , Jauberteau Raphael , Wabnitz Stefan , Crocco Maria Caterina , Formoso Vincenzo , Jupé Marco , Ristau Detlev
Published: March 2024

The understanding of the laser-induced damage behavior in polymer optical materials is of high interest to prevent their damage and to increase the laser damage resistance of optical components. Moreover, compared with optical components made from high-quality glass materials, nanosecond laser-induced damage for wavelengths in the visible and near-infrared (NIR) occurs inside the bulk material of PMMA and not at its surface. This phenomenon complicates the determination of the laser-induced damage threshold (LIDT) in PMMA fibers. Since the bulk material itself determines the LIDT, knowledge of the intensity distribution in the multimode fiber is of utmost importance. Our fibers were irradiated at a wavelength of 532 nm with an ns-pulsed laser system with a 10 Hz repetition rate. To investigate the damage behavior in polymer optical fibers, we applied different imaging and analysis techniques. To our knowledge, those techniques are used here for the first time in order to study damaged polymer materials. With the help of a Nomarski microscope, axial and radial damage distributions within the multimode PMMA fibers were determined and compared with ray-tracing simulations of the intensity distribution within the optical fiber. Moreover, extruded PMMA plates were irradiated with the aim of comparing the damage behavior of materials with different manufacturing. In addition, the planar geometry of the plates allows for a more reliable application of the different measurement methods. Overall, investigations with a thermal imaging camera and EDX analysis indicate that the damage behavior of polymer optical material is thermally driven during the ns-pulsed irradiation. Furthermore, voids are formed during the damaging process within the polymer optical fibers and plates, as indicated by both SEM images and X-ray computed microtomography (µ-CT) investigations. Finally, we investigated the damages in fiber preforms and PMMA plates using two photon-microscopy. By doing this, we detected fluorescence signals from the damaged material, indicating that the damage process leads to a major modification of the polymer.
Nonlinear compression of mid-infrared supercontinuum generation in dispersion-engineered As2S5 chalcogenide ridge waveguide
Authors: Saenkwa Bunyasit , Anusasananan Panatcha , Wannaprapa Mongkol , Chiangga Surasak , Yupapin Preecha , Sonasang Somchat , Suwanarat Suksan
Published: March 2024

We numerically demonstrated nonlinear compression of mid-infrared (mid-IR) supercontinuum (SC) generation in As2S5 chalcogenide glass (ChG) ridge waveguides, achieving a small dispersion value at the pump wavelength of 2.5 µm by adjusting the waveguide width (normal dispersions of -10.547 ps.nm−1.km−1 and the anomalous dispersions of +5.314 ps.nm−1.km−1). These waveguides were designed using the negative slope of the dispersions with the negative third-order dispersion, which are applied to generate the nonlinear compression of SC generation. Using a 50-fs pulse with the peak power of 2000 W, the two waveguides could compress the maximum pulse peak power of 6900 W (> 3.4 octaves) and 6360 W (> 3.1 octaves) and generate the widest SC spectra, spanning from 1.20 µm to 12.96 µm and from 1.25 µm to >13 µm with only short waveguides 0.85 mm and 1 mm long, respectively. The key process behind SC formation in such ChG waveguides is related to self-phase modulation, four-wave mixing, and nonlinear compression. This particular design is effective, and ChG waveguides can generate high peak power and the widest spectra of SC generation. Moreover, the waveguides are also relatively flexible in design, which is concerned with optical design and engineering, and micro-optical devices. As the ultra-wideband mid-IR SC source, high pulse peak power, very short waveguides, and low-energy pulses (<1 pJ) are important for on-chip mid-IR SC sources, the proposed work would offer the greatest benefits in practical application.
Social contact as a strategy to reduce stigma in low- and middle-income countries: A systematic review and expert perspectives
Authors: Damsté Carlijn , Gronholm Petra C. , Groot Tjitske de , Gurung Dristy , Makhmud Akerke , Peters Ruth M. H. , Hartog Kim
Published: March 2024

Social contact (SC) has been identified as a promising strategy for stigma reduction. Different types of SC exist. Various scholars defined positive factors to strengthen SC. This study aims to investigate the application and effectiveness of SC as a strategy to reduce stigmatisation across stigmas, settings and populations in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). We specifically examine the use of positive factors. A systematic review was conducted in twelve electronic databases using key terms related to stigma AND social contact AND intervention AND LMICs. Data were synthesised narratively. Study quality was assessed with the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal checklists. Additionally, semi-structured interviews were used with first/corresponding authors of included publications to investigate their practical experiences with SC. Forty-four studies (55 publications) were identified. Various stigmas (n = 16) were targeted, including mental health (43%). Indirect (n = 18) and direct contact (n = 16) were used most frequently, followed by collaboration, imagined and vicarious contact, or a combination. The most applied additional strategy was education. Almost half of the studies, explicitly or implicitly, described positive factors for SC, such as PWLE training or disconfirming stereotypes. The majority suggested that SC is effective in reducing stigma, although inconsistent reporting overshadows conclusions. Perspectives of people with lived experience (PWLE) were infrequently included. Expert perspectives stressed the importance of contextualisation, PWLE participation, and evaluation of SC. This study provides an overview of SC as a stigma reduction strategy within LMICs. Conclusions about which type of SC is more effective or whether SC is more effective for a specific stigma category cannot be drawn. We recommend future research to strengthen reporting on effectiveness as well as PWLE perspective and SC processes, and to further critically examine the potential of SC. An overview of positive factors applied to strengthen SC is provided, which can stimulate reflection and guide future SC.
Comparison of blood and urine concentrations of equol by LC‒MS/MS method and factors associated with equol production in 466 Japanese men and women
Authors: Yoshikata Remi , Myint Khin Zay Yar , Taguchi Junichi
Published: March 2024

Equol is produced from daidzein by the action of gut bacteria on soy isoflavones. However, not all people can produce equol, and metabolism differs even among the producers. We aimed to examine the equol producer status in both men and women, and investigate the relationships among the serum and urinary isoflavones as well as to other biomedical parameters. In this study, we measured the equol and daidzein concentrations from the blood and urine of 292 men and 174 women aged between 22 and 88 years by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC‒MS/MS). We then analysed the cut-off value for equol producers in both sexes, the relationship of serum and urinary equol concentrations, and other parameters, such as sex, age, endocrine function, glucose metabolism, lipid metabolism, and renal function with regards to equol-producing ability, among the different age groups. Equol producers were defined as those whose log ratio of urinary equol and daidzein concentration or log (equol/daidzein) was -1.42 or higher. Among 466 participants, 195 were equol producers (42%). The proportion of equol producers was larger in women. The cut-off value for equol producers was consistent in both sexes. Positive relationships were noted between serum and urinary equol levels in equol producers of both sexes; however, such a relationship was not detected in nonproducers. Lipid and uric acid abnormalities were more common with non equol producers in both men and women. Prostate specific antigen (PSA) levels in men were significantly lower in equol producers, especially in those in their 40 s. This study suggests a relationship between equol-producing ability and reduced risk of prostate disease as well as positive effects of equol on blood lipids and uric acid levels. However, lack of dietary information and disperse age groups were major drawbacks in generalizing the results of this study.
GraphMHC: Neoantigen prediction model applying the graph neural network to molecular structure
Authors: Jeong Hoyeon , Cho Young-Rae , Gim Jungsoo , Cha Seung-Kuy , Kim Maengsup , Kang Dae Ryong
Published: March 2024

Neoantigens are tumor-derived peptides and are biomarkers that can predict prognosis related to immune checkpoint inhibition by estimating their binding to major histocompatibility complex (MHC) proteins. Although deep neural networks have been primarily used for these prediction models, it is difficult to interpret the models reported thus far as accurately representing the interactions between biomolecules. In this study, we propose the GraphMHC model, which utilizes a graph neural network model applied to molecular structure to simulate the binding between MHC proteins and peptide sequences. Amino acid sequences sourced from the immune epitope database (IEDB) undergo conversion into molecular structures. Subsequently, atomic intrinsic informations and inter-atomic connections are extracted and structured as a graph representation. Stacked graph attention and convolution layers comprise the GraphMHC network which classifies bindings. The prediction results from the test set using the GraphMHC model showed a high performance with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 92.2% (91.9-92.5%), surpassing a baseline model. Moreover, by applying the GraphMHC model to melanoma patient data from The Cancer Genome Atlas project, we found a borderline difference (0.061) in overall survival and a significant difference in stromal score between the high and low neoantigen load groups. This distinction was not present in the baseline model. This study presents the first feature-intrinsic method based on biochemical molecular structure for modeling the binding between MHC protein sequences and neoantigen candidate peptide sequences. This model can provide highly accurate responsibility information that can predict the prognosis of immune checkpoint inhibitors to cancer patients who want to apply it.
Electromyographic activity of pelvic floor muscles in different positions during the use an innovative vaginal educator: Cross-sectional study
Authors: Duarte Natália de Souza , Azevedo Yury Souza De , Furtado Emilly Cássia Soares , Araújo Lorena Jarid Freire De , Bendelack Rayanne Mesquita , Rodrigues Cibele Nazaré Câmara , Araujo Nazete dos Santos , Neves Pablo Fabiano Moura das , Soares Ana Clara Nunes , Barros Rayana Carvalho , Santos Tainah Lacerda , Nunes Erica Feio Carneiro , Ferreira Elizabeth Alves Gonçalves , Callegari Bianca , de Melo-Neto João Simão
Published: March 2024

The pelvic floor requires an integrated anatomical structure owing to its multiple functions. Therefore, it is necessary to study methods for improving muscle recruitment during training. This study aimed to analyze the effect of using an innovative vaginal trainer on the bioelectrical activity of the pelvic floor muscles. Pelvic positioning and interference factors, such as age, childbirth, sexual activity, urinary incontinence, and menopause, were also analyzed. A cross-sectional study assessed 30 women using an evaluation form, International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form, and surface electromyography. The root mean square of a 5-second contraction period, peak root mean square values, area values, % maximal voluntary contraction (root mean square normalized by peak signal), and median frequency were collected. These findings with and without the use of a vaginal educator were compared in the anteversion, neutral, and retroversion pelvic positions. The use of a vaginal educator was found to increase the electromyographic activity of the pelvic floor muscles in the neutral position. In this position, older women showed an increased peak contraction when using the educator. Multiparas also benefited from increased bioelectric activity (root mean square and area). Sexually active women increased their bioelectric activity in a neutral position when using the trainer, exerting less effort in retroversion (%-maximal voluntary contraction). Incontinent and menopausal women exhibited slower body-building activation (decreased frequency) with the device, which requires further investigation. Our innovative biofeedback device induced greater recruitment of muscle fibers, is more effective in the neutral pelvic position, and may be effective in training the pelvic floor muscles, even in women with a greater tendency toward pelvic floor dysfunction.
Evaluating spatially enabled machine learning approaches to depth to bedrock mapping, Alberta, Canada
Authors: Pawley Steven M. , Atkinson Lisa , Utting Daniel J. , Hartman Gregory M. D. , Atkinson Nigel
Published: March 2024

Maps showing the thickness of sediments above the bedrock (depth to bedrock, or DTB) are important for many geoscience studies and are necessary for many hydrogeological, engineering, mining, and forestry applications. However, it can be difficult to accurately estimate DTB in areas with varied topography, like lowland and mountainous terrain, because traditional methods of predicting bedrock elevation often underestimate or overestimate the elevation in rugged or incised terrain. Here, we describe a machine learning spatial prediction approach that uses information from traditional digital elevation model derived estimates of terrain morphometry and satellite imagery, augmented with spatial feature engineering techniques to predict DTB across Alberta, Canada. First, compiled measurements of DTB from borehole lithologs were used to train a natural language model to predict bedrock depth across all available lithologs, significantly increasing the dataset size. The combined data were then used for DTB modelling employing several algorithms (XGBoost, Random forests, and Cubist) and spatial feature engineering techniques, using a combination of geographic coordinates, proximity measures, neighbouring points, and spatially lagged DTB estimates. Finally, the results were contrasted with DTB predictions based on modelled relationships with the auxiliary variables, as well as conventional spatial interpolations using inverse-distance weighting and ordinary kriging methods. The results show that the use of spatially lagged variables to incorporate information from the spatial structure of the training data significantly improves predictive performance compared to using auxiliary predictors and/or geographic coordinates alone. Furthermore, unlike some of the other tested methods such as using neighbouring point locations directly as features, spatially lagged variables did not generate spurious spatial artifacts in the predicted raster maps. The proposed method is demonstrated to produce reliable results in several distinct physiographic sub-regions with contrasting terrain types, as well as at the provincial scale, indicating its broad suitability for DTB mapping in general.
Development and validation of the Japanese version of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Development of Clinical Skills Scale
Authors: Kanakubo Yusuke , Sugiyama Yoshifumi , Yoshida Eriko , Aoki Takuya , Mutai Rieko , Matsushima Masato , Okada Tadao
Published: March 2024

Introduction

The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Development of Clinical Skills Scale (LGBT-DOCSS) is a validated self-assessment tool for health and mental health professionals who provide healthcare for sexual and gender minority patients. This study aimed to develop and validate a Japanese version of LGBT-DOCSS (LGBT-DOCSS-JP) and examine its psychometric properties.

Methods

LGBT-DOCSS was translated into Japanese and cross-culturally validated using cognitive debriefing. We then evaluated the structural validity, convergent and discriminant validity, internal consistency, and test–retest reliability of LGBT-DOCSS-JP using an online survey.

Results

Data were analyzed for 381 health and mental health professionals aged 20 years or older from three suburban medical institutions. The confirmatory factor analysis indicated that the original three-factor model did not fit well with LGBT-DOCSS-JP. Exploratory factor analysis revealed four new factors: Attitudinal Awareness, Basic Knowledge, Clinical Preparedness, and Clinical Training. Convergent and discriminant validity were supported using four established scales that measured attitudes toward lesbians and gay men, genderism and transphobia, authoritarianism and conventionalism, and social desirability. The internal consistency of LGBT-DOCSS-JP was supported by the Cronbach’s alpha values for the overall scale (0.84), and for each of its subscales (Attitudinal Awareness and Basic Knowledge both 0.87, Clinical Preparedness 0.78, and Clinical Training 0.97). The test–retest reliability for the overall LGBT-DOCSS-JP was supported by an intraclass correlation coefficient score of 0.86.

Conclusions

LGBT-DOCSS-JP has the potential to serve as a valuable tool in the development and assessment of effective curricula for LGBT healthcare education, as well as a means to promote self-reflection among trainees and professionals.
The impact of climate change on the agriculture and the economy of Southern Gaul: New perspectives of agent-based modelling
Authors: Bernigaud Nicolas , Bondeau Alberte , Guiot Joël , Bertoncello Frédérique , Ouriachi Marie-Jeanne , Bouby Laurent , Leveau Philippe , Bernard Loup , Isoardi Delphine
Published: March 2024

What impact did the Roman Climate Optimum (RCO) and the Late Antique Little Ice Age (LALIA) have on the rise and fall of the Roman Empire? Our article presents an agent-based modelling (ABM) approach developed to evaluate the impact of climate change on the profitability of vineyards, olive groves, and grain farms in Southern Gaul, which were the main source of wealth in the roman period. This ABM simulates an agroecosystem model which processes potential agricultural yield values from paleoclimatic data. The model calculates the revenues made by agricultural exploitations from the sale of crops whose annual volumes vary according to climate and market prices. The potential profits made by the different agricultural exploitations are calculated by deducting from the income the operating and transportation costs. We conclude that the warm and wet climate of the Roman period may have had an extremely beneficial effect on the profitability of wine and olive farms between the 2nd century BCE and the 3rd century CE, but a more modest effect on grain production. Subsequently, there is a significant decrease in the potential profitability of farms during the Late Antique Little Ice Age (4th-7th century CE). Comparing the results of our model with archaeological data enables us to discuss the impact of these climatic fluctuations on the agricultural and economic growth, and then their subsequent recession in Southern Gaul from the beginning to the end of antiquity.
Intrauterine and early-life malnutrition in rats disrupts the circadian rhythm programming of energy metabolites through adulthood
Authors: Bustamante-Valdez Dulce Jocelyn , Fuentes-Cano Martin Alejandro , Gonzalez-Ruano Jesus Salvador , Martinez-Canabal Alonso , Cardenas-Vazquez Rene , Duran Pilar
Published: March 2024

Maternal malnutrition plays a crucial role in functional development, resulting in behavioral, cognitive, and metabolic abnormalities and disturbances. “Cafeteria diet” has been linked to obesity, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, and other metabolic disruptions in the mammalian lifespan. However, there are very few reports about the effect of intrauterine and early postnatal malnutrition on the circadian rhythm programming of energy metabolites. In mammals, circadian rhythm central control is fundamental for correct interaction with the environment and physiological regulation. Exposure to malnutrition during development imprints metabolic programming throughout life on the central nervous system and peripheral systems. Lifespan studies exploring the effect of high fat/low protein diet administered during critical periods of development are scarce. The present study explored the effect of intrauterine and perinatal malnutrition induced by a high fat/low protein diet (Cafeteria Diet) on circadian and peripheral oscillators controlling glucose, insulin, and triglycerides in rats at 40 and 90 days of age. We evaluated plasma glucose and triglyceride levels in 6 Zeitgeber times, in addition to an intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test (IpTGT) and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) at two time-points over 24h. Our results show that offspring of malnourished dams fed cafeteria diet present alterations in circadian rhythmicity of glucose and triglycerides associated with a change in glucose tolerance and insulin sensibility differentially regulated at the development stage and time of day. Intrauterine and early malnutrition due to a cafeteria diet produces maladaptive responses and programs energetic metabolism at several developmental stages during the lifespan.
Sex-related differences in pre-dialysis trajectories and dialysis initiation: A French nationwide retrospective study
Authors: Raffray Maxime , Bourasseau Louise , Vigneau Cécile , Couchoud Cécile , Béchade Clémence , Glowacki François , Bayat Sahar ,   on behalf of the REIN registry
Published: March 2024

Background

In the last two decades, sex and gender differences have been documented in chronic kidney disease (CKD) management, including access to renal replacement therapy and its outcomes. The objectives of this study were to 1) compare the pre-dialysis healthcare utilization in men and women, and 2) examine the sex-specific factors associated with emergency dialysis start.

Methods

Adult patients with CKD who started dialysis in France in 2015 were extracted from the Renal Epidemiology and Information Network registry. Patients were matched to the French National Health Data System database to extract healthcare utilization data for the 2 years before dialysis start. Frequencies and monthly rates of consultations and hospitalizations were compared between men and women. Logistic regression analyses were performed separately in the two groups.

Results

Among the 8856 patients included, 3161 (35.7%) were women. Median age (71 years) and estimated glomerular filtration rate (8.1 and 7.7 ml/min for men and women) were similar between groups at dialysis start. Monthly consultations rates with a general practitioner and nephrology-related care were similar between women and men. Some sex-specific differences were found: higher frequencies of consultations with a psychiatrist in women and more frequent hospitalizations for circulatory system diseases in men. Emergency dialysis start rate was 30% in both groups. Emergency dialysis start was associated with acute nephropathy, compared with slowly progressive nephropathy, in women but not in men (OR = 1.48, p<0.01 vs 1.15, p = 0.18).

Conclusions

This study found similar quantitative pre-dialysis healthcare utilization in men and women. To better understand sex/gender differences in CKD care trajectories, future research should focus on patients with CKD who are unknown to nephrology services, on patients receiving conservative care and on the sex/gender-specific mechanisms underlying care decision-making.
Anti-inflammatory potential via the MAPK signaling pathway of Lactobacillus spp. isolated from canine feces
Authors: Park Mi Ae , Park Mirieom , Jang Hyun-Jun , Lee Sung Ho , Hwang Yeong Min , Park Soyeon , Shin Donghyun , Kim Yangseon
Published: March 2024

Two probiotic candidates, Lactobacillus reuteri C1 (C1) and Lactobacillus acidophilus C5 (C5), which were previously isolated from canines, were evaluated in the present study. L. reuteri and L. acidophilus have anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, immune-enhancing, and anti-cancer properties and exhibit various probiotic effects in humans and animals. The strains C1 and C5 demonstrated good tolerance to acid and bile salt exposure, exhibited effective adhesion to HT-29 cell monolayer, and displayed sensitivity to antibiotics, thus affirming their probiotic characteristics. Moreover, C1 and C5 exhibited the ability to downregulate the expression of inducible NO synthase (iNOS), an immunomodulatory factor, leading to a reduction in NO production in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. These strains also demonstrated potent anti-inflammatory effects in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells, achieved through the augmentation of anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 expression and the inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-1β expression. These anti-inflammatory effects of C1 and C5 were closely associated with the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway. The results of the present study suggest that the C1 and C5 probiotic candidates attenuate LPS-induced inflammation via the MAPK signaling pathway and the strains can be used as probiotics considering their anti-inflammatory potential.
Shaping opinions in social networks with shadow banning
Authors: Chen Yen-Shao , Zaman Tauhid
Published: March 2024

The proliferation of harmful content and misinformation on social networks necessitates content moderation policies to maintain platform health. One such policy is shadow banning, which limits content visibility. The danger of shadow banning is that it can be misused by social media platforms to manipulate opinions. Here we present an optimization based approach to shadow banning that can shape opinions into a desired distribution and scale to large networks. Simulations on real network topologies show that our shadow banning policies can shift opinions and increase or decrease opinion polarization. We find that if one shadow bans with the aim of shifting opinions in a certain direction, the resulting shadow banning policy can appear neutral. This shows the potential for social media platforms to misuse shadow banning without being detected. Our results demonstrate the power and danger of shadow banning for opinion manipulation in social networks.
Can cyclone exposure explain behavioural and demographic variation among lemur species?
Authors: Behie Alison M. , Steffens Travis S. , Yaxley Keaghan , Vincent Alan , Wright Patricia C. , Johnson Steig E. , Pavelka Mary S. M.
Published: March 2024

Madagascar has a harsh and stochastic climate because of regular natural disturbances. This history of regular cyclones has been hypothesised to have directed evolutionary changes to lemur behaviour and morphology that make them more resilient to sudden environmental change. These adaptations may include: small group sizes, high degrees of energy-conserving behaviours, generalist habitat use, small home ranges, small body size, and a limited number of frugivorous species. To date, however, no one has tested how variation in cyclone exposure across Madagascar is associated with variation in these resilience traits. In this study, we created a detailed cyclone impact map for Madagascar using Koppen-Geiger climate class, historical cyclone tracks, the Saffir Class of cyclone and hurricane intensity, and precipitation data. We also used existing literature to calculate a resilience score for 26 lemur species for which data existed on resilience traits. Our cyclone impact map was then overlaid on known geographic ranges of these species and compared to resilience score while controlling for phylogenetic non-independence and spatial autocorrelation. We found no association between cyclone impact in a lemur range and their resilience score. When assessing traits individually, however, we found that cyclone impact was positively associated with body size, suggesting that the more impacted a species is by cyclones the smaller they are. We also found cyclone impact to be negatively associated with frugivory, with species in higher impact zones eating more fruit. While unexpected, this could reflect an increased production in fruit in tree fall gaps following cyclones. While we did not find a pattern between cyclone impact and behavioural resilience in lemurs, we suggest a similar study at a global scale across all primates would allow for more taxonomic variation and reveal larger patterns key to understanding past and future vulnerability to natural disturbances in primates.
Strategi Peningkatan Kompetensi Calon Pekerja Migran Indonesia
Authors: Fitriani Desi , Ramdhan Dadang , Hapsari Andriyani
Published: March 2024

Prospective Indonesian Migrant Workers (Pekerja Migran Indonesia/PMI) who will work abroad are required to have working competence. Lacks of such competence on prospective migrant workers will potentially result in issues such as discrimination, exploitation, fraud, unpaid salaries, and human trafficking. This article aims to understand strategies which could be conducted by the government and related stakeholders to improve the competence of prospective migrant workers as well asidentify the success factors, obstacles and challenges in the advancement process. The analysis employs a qualitative approach with the method of a literatures study on articles/journals, books, news, regulations related to migrant workers, documents, and other data from the internet. The type of research used is qualitative with a literature study method sourced from articles/journals, books, news, laws related to migrant workers, documents, and the internet. Findings show that a potential strategy to increase working competences for PMI is a job training which includes language skills and digital literacy, APBD allocation, and Final Debriefing of Departure (PAP). Through developing workers’ competences, it is expected that prospective migrant workers will be able to compete well in the global labor market.
Sera from people with HIV and depression induce commensurate metabolic alterations in astrocytes: toward precision diagnoses and therapies
Authors: Laird Anna Elizabeth , Le Alexandra Anh , Kulbe Jacqueline R. , Umlauf Anya , Sagarian Melody , Spencer Matthew , Sathe Anish , Grelotti David J. , Iudicello Jennifer , Henry Brook , Ellis Ronald J. , Fields Jerel Adam
Published: March 2024

Objectives

People with HIV (PWH) have high rates of depression and neurocognitive impairment (NCI) despite viral suppression on antiretroviral therapy (ART). Mounting evidence suggests that immunometabolic disruptions may contribute to these conditions in some PWH. We hypothesized that metabolic dysfunction in astrocytes is associated with depressive symptoms and cognitive function in PWH.

Methods

Human astrocytes were exposed to sera from PWH (n=40) with varying degrees of depressive symptomatology and cognitive function. MitoTrackerTM Deep Red FM (MT) was used to visualize mitochondrial activity and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) as an indicator of astrocyte reactivity using the high-throughput fluorescent microscopy and image analyses platform, CellInsight CX5 (CX5). The Seahorse platform was used to assess glycolytic and mitochondrial metabolism.

Results

More severe depression, as indexed by higher Beck's Depression Inventory (BDI-II) scores, was associated with lower MT signal measures. Better cognitive function, as assessed by neuropsychiatric testing t-scores, was associated with increased MT signal measures. GFAP intensity negatively correlated with several cognitive t-scores. Age positively correlated with (higher) MT signal measures and GFAP intensity. Worse depressive symptoms (higher BDI-II scores) were associated with decreased oxygen consumption rate and spare respiratory capacity, concomitant with increased extracellular acidification rate in astrocytes.

Conclusions

These findings show that factors in the sera of PWH alter mitochondrial activity in cultured human astrocytes, suggesting that mechanisms that alter mitochondrial and astrocyte homeostasis can be detected peripherally. Thus, in vitro cultures may provide a model to identify neuropathogenic mechanisms of depression or neurocognitive impairment in PWH and test personalized therapeutics for neurologic and psychiatric disorders.
Flexible polymer networks: rubber elasticity and segmental orientation
Authors: Abetz Volker
Published: March 2024

Thermoreversible networks are very attractive materials because of a large variety of suitable thermoreversible chemical bonds which can be used for crosslinking. In future, to certain extent, they may replace so far used irreversibly crosslinked networks and contribute to more sustainable material concepts also in the field of crosslinked elastomers. This paper gives some theoretical basis for understanding the elastic deformation properties of crosslinked polymers and presents some experimental tools for studying deformation behavior not only on a macroscopic length scale but also on a segmental scale. Basic knowledge of these two topics is useful for chemists and material scientists when designing new sustainable elastomeric polymer networks.
Did People Really “Leave It Blank”? A Tale of What Became of the Census Citizenship Question and Allocation Trends Through Time
Authors: Smalley Heather Kitada , Karthik Mira
Published: March 2024

The 2020 Decennial Census garnered unprecedented attention due to the proposed reintroduction of the citizenship question by the Trump Administration. The legal imperative to respond to the Census and the sensitive nature of the citizenship question led to tensions and public outrage. This paper discusses the controversy surrounding the addition of the citizenship question and its implications on vulnerable communities, particularly undocumented immigrants and communities of color. Although the citizenship question was ultimately not added to the 2020 Decennial Census, it continued to be asked on the American Community Survey (ACS). We examine how negative public sentiment during this time, in tandem with historical mistrust of government data collection, may have manifested as item non-response within the ACS, specifically on questions relating to citizenship status and, more broadly, the Origin and Language subgroup of questions. The analyses in this paper explore trends in non-response rates from the American Community Survey from 2014 to 2022. Item allocation rates are used as a proxy for non-response to questions relating to citizenship. A variety of data visualization tools, supported by statistical methods, are employed to weave connections between allocation trends and the proposed addition of the citizenship question to the Decennial Census. We aim to bring transparency to this issue to educate and encourage response within vulnerable communities by emphasizing the importance of accurate data collection and positive perceptions of government-issued surveys, which are used to make key legislative decisions and create a more democratic nation.
Mieux soutenir et accompagner l’innovation et l’entrepreneuriat en Abitibi-Témiscamingue : la consultation des acteurs de l’écosystème
Authors: Cloutier Jean-Samuel
Published: March 2024

Afin d’accompagner les acteurs de l’écosystème d’innovation et d’entrepreneuriat en Abitibi-Témiscamingue et de soutenir l’amélioration de la prise de décision en matière de soutien et d’accompagnement, nous avons procédé en trois étapes : une revue de littérature, la consultation des acteurs et une enquête. Dans cet article, nous nous concentrons sur la première et la deuxième étape de cette initiative. Au cours de la consultation, 28 acteurs de l’écosystème ont été interrogés. Elle a permis de mieux comprendre les enjeux et les solutions, d’identifier les services de soutien disponibles ainsi que de mettre en lumière les bonnes pratiques et les facteurs clés de succès. En plus de confirmer l’intérêt d’aller de l’avant avec une enquête régionale et territoriale, des recommandations en ce sens ont été formulées. Entre autres, les enquêtes ne doivent pas négliger les aspects de représentativité, de comparabilité et de robustesse scientifique; de concertation et de leadership régional et territorial; et de vision du soutien et de l’accompagnement comme une relation à dimension humaine.
Autorégulation et perspective éthique : une approche praxéologique à visée d’équilibre
Authors: Jean Marc , Benoit Didier
Published: March 2024

Sans que personne en doute, il existe souvent une distance importante dans un contexte d’intervention entre l’effet qu’on fait et l’effet qu’on pense faire comme acteur. C’est dans le but de réduire autant que faire se peut cet écart tout au long d’une démarche réflexive dans la perspective de l’éthique que les auteurs ont écrit ce texte. En d’autres termes, le pari offert ici est que l’usage d’une approche praxéologique au cœur d’une démarche réflexive en éthique puisse favoriser la réduction d’un tel écart.
Evidence of Active-Forgetting Mechanisms? Blocking Arachidonic Acid Release May Slow Forgetting of Sensitization inAplysia
Authors: Calin-Jageman Robert J. , Gonzalez Delgadillo Bryan , Gamino Elise , Juarez Zayra , Kurkowski Anna , Musajeva Nelly , Valdez Leslie , Wittrock Diana , Wilsterman Theresa , Zarate Torres Jashui , Calin-Jageman Irina E.
Published: March 2024

Long-term sensitization inAplysiais accompanied by a persistent up-regulation of mRNA encoding the peptide neurotransmitter Phe-Met-Arg-Phe-amide (FMRFa), a neuromodulator that opposes the expression of sensitization through activation of the arachidonic acid second-messenger pathway. We completed a preregistered test of the hypothesis that FMRFa plays a critical role in the forgetting of sensitization.Aplysiareceived long-term sensitization training and were then given whole-body injections of vehicle (N = 27), FMRFa (N = 26), or 4-bromophenacylbromide (4-BPB;N = 31), a phospholipase inhibitor that prevents the release of arachidonic acid. FMRFa produced no changes in forgetting. 4-BPB decreased forgetting measured 6 d after training [ds = 0.55 95% CI(0.01, 1.09)], though the estimated effect size is uncertain. Our results provide preliminary evidence that forgetting of sensitization may be a regulated, active process inAplysia, but could also indicate a role for arachidonic acid in stabilizing the induction of sensitization.
Evaluation and Performance Improvement of Environmentally Friendly Sustainable Turning of 6063 Aluminum Alloy in Dry Conditions Using Grey Relational Analysis
Authors: Kannan A , N.M.Sivaram
Published: March 2024

Sustainable machining has gained importance in recent years due to its environmental, economic, and societal implications. Aluminium (Al) 6063 alloy involves turning operation to make it suitable for various applications. The work's novelty is assessing the machining characteristics along with sustainability indicators. This study aims to find the best-turning parameters for machining Al 6063 alloy. The turning parameters considered were cutting speed, feed rate, and depth of cut. A cutting speed of 200 m/min, feed rate of 0.05 mm/rev, and depth of cut of 0.25 mm were the best parameter combinations for achieving a good machining response. From the response value of mean grey relational grade (GRG) and analysis of variance (ANOVA), the depth of cut ranks one with 34.38%, which is the most dominating parameter in achieving the sustainable machining of Al 6063 alloy. Through grey relational analysis, optimized machining parameters resulted in a 72.84 percent reduction in carbon emissions, 72.82 percent reduction in energy consumption, 18.58 percent reduction in cutting power, and 6.83 percent reduction in surface roughness considering the initial parameter settings and best machining parameters. The enhancement in total GRG was 0.1702, indicating improvement in the desired responses. As a result of this study, it is clear that appropriate machining parameter selection aids sustainable machining of Al 6063 alloy.
Hubungan Antara Literasi Lingkungan Dengan Kemampuan Memecahkan Masalah Lingkungan Pada Peserta Didik di Sekolah Adiwiyata SMA N 4 Semarang
Authors: Aulia Anugrah Tunjung , Aji Ananto
Published: March 2024

SMA N 4 Semarang sebagai salah satu Sekolah Adiwiyata tingkat nasional di Kota Semarang memiliki permasalahan masih ditemukan perilaku tidak ramah lingkungan pada siswa yang berpotensi memunculkan permasalahan lingkungan. Maka dari itu, dibutuhkan kemampuan memecahkan masalah lingkungan pada siswa yang dapat dibentuk melalui literasi lingkungan. Tujuan penelitian ini yaitu untuk menganalisis tingkat literasi lingkungan indikator pengetahuan lingkungan, keterampilan kognitif, dan sikap terhadap lingkungan pada peserta didik, untuk menganalisis kemampuan literasi lingkungan indikator perilaku terhadap lingkungan pada peserta didik, untuk menganalisis tingkat kemampuan memecahkan masalah lingkungan pada peserta didik, dan untuk mengetahui hubungan antara literasi lingkungan indikator pengetahuan lingkungan, keterampilan kognitif, dan sikap terhadap lingkungan dengan kemampuan memecahkan masalah lingkungan pada peserta didik di SMA N 4 Semarang. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian kuantitatif dengan teknik pengumpulan data menggunakan tes, kuesioner, observasi, wawancara dan dokumentasi. Selanjutnya data dianalisis dengan regresi linier sederhana dan korelasi pearson product moment. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa tingkat literasi lingkungan dan kemampuan memecahkan masalah lingkungan pada siswa masuk dalam kategori tinggi dengan nilai yang diperoleh masing-masing sebesar 85 dan 87. Berdasarkan hasil pengamatan, siswa juga memiliki perilaku terhadap lingkungan yang baik namun belum optimal dalam konservasi energi. Hasil yang didapatkan juga menunjukkan terdapat hubungan yang positif dan signifikan dengan kekuatan rendah antara literasi lingkungan dengan kemampuan memecahkan masalah lingkungan pada siswa dengan persamaan regresi sebesar Y= 51,755 + 0,413 X. Koefisien korelasi yang dihasilkan sebesar 0,368 dan koefisien determinasi sebesar 13,5%.