bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An adaptive hybrid african vultures-aquila optimizer with Xgb-Tree algorithm for fake news detection
Authors: Abd El-Mageed Amr A. , Abohany Amr A. , Ali Asmaa H. , Hosny Khalid M.
Published: March 2024

Online platforms and social networking have increased in the contemporary years. They are now a major news source worldwide, leading to the online proliferation of Fake News (FNs). These FNs are alarming because they fundamentally reshape public opinion, which may cause customers to leave these online platforms, threatening the reputations of several organizations and industries. This rapid dissemination of FNs makes it imperative for automated systems to detect them, encouraging many researchers to propose various systems to classify news articles and detect FNs automatically. In this paper, a Fake News Detection (FND) methodology is presented based on an effective IBAVO-AO algorithm, which stands for hybridization of African Vultures Optimization (AVO) and Aquila Optimization (AO) algorithms, with an extreme gradient boosting Tree (Xgb-Tree) classifier. The suggested methodology involves three main phases: Initially, the unstructured FNs dataset is analyzed, and the essential features are extracted by tokenizing, encoding, and padding the input news words into a sequence of integers utilizing the GLOVE approach. Then, the extracted features are filtered using the effective Relief algorithm to select only the appropriate ones. Finally, the recovered features are used to classify the news items using the suggested IBAVO-AO algorithm based on the Xgb-Tree classifier. Hence, the suggested methodology is distinguished from prior models in that it performs automatic data pre-processing, optimization, and classification tasks. The proposed methodology is carried out on the ISOT-FNs dataset, containing more than 44 thousand multiple news articles divided into truthful and fake. We validated the proposed methodology’s reliability by examining numerous evaluation metrics involving accuracy, fitness values, the number of selected features, Kappa, Precision, Recall, F1-score, Specificity, Sensitivity, ROC_AUC, and MCC. Then, the proposed methodology is compared against the most common meta-heuristic optimization algorithms utilizing the ISOT-FNs. The experimental results reveal that the suggested methodology achieved optimal classification accuracy and F1-score and successfully categorized more than 92.5% of news articles compared to its peers. This study will assist researchers in expanding their understanding of meta-heuristic optimization algorithms applications for FND.

Graphical Abstract
Comparison of a 3D CZT and conventional SPECT/CT system for quantitative Lu-177 SPECT imaging
Authors: Nuttens Victor , Schramm Georg , D’Asseler Yves , Koole Michel
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Next-generation SPECT/CT systems with CdZnTe (CZT) digital detectors in a ring-like setup are emerging to perform quantitative Lu-177 SPECT imaging in clinical routine. It is essential to assess how the shorter acquisition time might affect the image quality and uncertainty on the mean absorbed dose of the tumors and organs at risk compared to a conventional system.

Methods

A NEMA Image Quality phantom was scanned with a 3D CZT SPECT/CT system (Veriton, by Spectrum Dynamics) using 6 min per bed position and with a conventional SPECT/CT system (Symbia T16, by Siemens) using 16 min per bed position. The sphere-to-background ratio was 12:1 and the background activity concentration ranged from 0.52 to 0.06 MBq/mL. A clinical reconstruction protocol for dosimetry purposes was determined for both systems by maximizing the sphere-to-background ratio while keeping the coefficient of variation of the background as low as possible. The corresponding image resolution was determined by the matching filter method and used for a dose uncertainty assessment of both systems following an established uncertainty model..

Results

The optimized iterative reconstruction protocol included scatter and attenuation correction for both systems and detector response modeling for the Siemens system. For the 3D CZT system, 6 iterations and 8 subsets were combined with a Gaussian post-filter of 3 mm Full Width Half Maximum (FWHM) for post-smoothing. For the conventional system, 16 iterations and 16 subsets were applied with a Gaussian post-smoothing filter of 1 mm FWHM. For these protocols, the sphere-to-background ratio was 18.5% closer to the true ratio for the conventional system compared to the 3D CZT system when considering the four largest spheres. Meanwhile, the background coefficient of variation was very similar for both systems. These protocols resulted in SPECT image resolution of 14.8 mm and 13.6 mm for the 3D CZT and conventional system respectively. Based on these resolution estimates, a 50% dose uncertainty corresponded to a lesion volume of 28 mL for the conventional system and a lesion volume of 33 mL for the 3D CZT system.

Conclusions

An optimized reconstruction protocol for a Veriton system with 6 min of acquisition time per bed position resulted in slightly higher dose uncertainties than a conventional Symbia system using 16 min of acquisition time per bed position. Therefore, a 3D CZT SPECT/CT allows to significantly reduce the acquisition times with only a very limited impact on dose uncertainties such that quantitative Lu-177 SPECT/CT imaging becomes much more accessible for treatment concurrent dosimetry. Nevertheless, the uncertainty of SPECT-based dose estimates remains high.
Lifestyle and eating habits changes among adults during COVID-19 era in Egypt: a population-based study
Authors: Mohammed Salah Gabal Hebat-Allah , Manzour Ayat F.
Published: March 2024

Background

The 2019 recent Coronavirus is without a doubt one of the most complicated viruses to ever pose a threat to humanity. Numerous viral containment strategies forced sedentary behaviors and dietary changes that would–otherwise- increase the chances of acquiring non-communicable diseases.

Objectives

The objectives of the current study are to identify any changes in eating behaviors through the Mediterranean Diet Adherence in a sample of Egyptians throughout the COVID-19 era.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was done on a sample of 205 Egyptians by an online self-administered questionnaire. The questionnaire included socio-demographic factors, self-reported weights and heights, a validated Arabic form of the well-known International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short Form (IPAQ-SF), a validated Arabic version of 14-items Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener (MEDAS), in addition to a section assessing dietetic changes. The data was then analyzed using the SPSS version 20 (Statistical Package for Social Sciences).

Results

The majority of the study sample were females (74.6%); had a high level of education (93.2%); and about 75% were married. Most of the participants were non-smokers, with around a 7% increased frequency of smoking after the COVID-19 pandemic. Fast food consumption was also reported by a major percentage of study participants (60%). Low Mediterranean Diet Adherence was found in 52.7%. Moreover, Physical Activity (PA) decreased to 61%. Moreover, there was a statistically significant increase seen in the participants’ BMI as well as the number of sleeping hours (p = 0.001 and 0.043 respectively) after the pandemic. Both changed hunger sensation and any changes in physical activity were significantly associated with increased BMI (p < 0.001).

Conclusion and recommendations

A substantial proportion of the participants showed unhealthy changes in their dietary habits as well as physical activity. Consequently, this calls for urgent public health policies and interventions to guard against the consequences of such unhealthy behaviors.
Assessing One Health capacities for transboundary zoonotic diseases at the Libya-Tunisia border
Authors: Miller Lauren N. , Saadawi Walid K. , Hamouda Wafa Ben , Elgari Ahmed S. , Abdulkarim Emaduldin A. , Lmrabet Ashur M. M. , Elbukhmari Abir E. , Harabech Kaouther , Jemai Ammar Ali , Farhat Milad , Al-Azab Rasha , Zorgani Abdulaziz , Elamher Omar , Al Sanouri Tarek , Standley Claire J. , Sorrell Erin M.
Published: March 2024

Background

The dynamic nature of zoonotic emergence, spillover and spread necessitates multisectoral coordination beyond national borders to encompass cross-boundary and regional cooperation. Designated points of entry (POEs), specifically ground crossings, serve as critical locales for establishing and maintaining robust prevention, detection, notification, coordination, and response mechanisms to transboundary emerging and re-emerging disease threats. In order to better assess One Health capacities for transboundary zoonotic diseases (TZD) prevention, detection and response we adapted an existing tool, One Health Systems Assessment for Priority Zoonoses (OHSAPZ), for a cross-border, POE setting in North Africa.

Methods

The One Health Transboundary Assessment for Priority Zoonoses (OHTAPZ) tool was used to support prioritization of transboundary zoonoses and analyze operational capacities between national and subnational-level human and animal health stakeholders from Libya and Tunisia. Country partners jointly identified and prioritized five TZDs of concern. Case study scenarios for each priority pathogen were used to elicit current disease operations, as well as multisectoral and bilateral engagement networks. Finally, a gap analysis was performed to determine bilateral strengths and weaknesses to TZDs.

Results

The five priority TZDs jointly confirmed to undergo One Health assessment were avian influenza (low and high pathogenic strains); brucellosis; Rift Valley fever; Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever; and rabies. Using the qualitative information collected, a transboundary systems map schematic was developed outlining the movement of human patients, animals, diagnostic samples, and routes of communication and coordination both within and between countries for zoonotic diseases.

Conclusions

Analysis of current operations (prevention, detection, surveillance, laboratory capacity, quarantine/isolation, and response) and the resulting transboundary systems map schematic helped identify existing capacity strengths for certain priority pathogens, as well as challenges to timely information-sharing and coordination. We developed targeted recommendations to address these limitations for joint action planning between Libya and Tunisia.
A DoE-based development and characterization of Nadifloxacin-loaded transethosomal gel for the treatment of Acne vulgaris
Authors: Patil Sujeet , Dandagi Panchaxari M. , Kazi Taufik , Hulyalkar Sujay , Biradar Prakash , Kumbar Vijay
Published: March 2024

Background

The objective of this current research was to enhance the topical delivery of Nadifloxacin (NDFX) by incorporating it into a transethosomal gel formulation. NDFX has limited penetration into the deep layer of the skin because it is poorly water soluble and it has a log p value of 2.47. To optimize the formulation, the “Box–Behnken design” was utilized. The independent variables included phosphatidylcholine 90, tween 80 and ethanol. The produced formulations underwent evaluation for entrapment efficiency, vesicle size and zeta potential. The optimized formulation was then incorporated into suitable gel bases and subjected to further investigation, including in vitro diffusion, ex vivo penetration, in vitro antimicrobial assay and in vivo anti-acne activity.

Results

The optimized formulation exhibited an entrapment efficiency of 80.12%, a vesicle size of 156.1 nm and a zeta potential of − 33.23 mV. TEM images confirmed the presence of encapsulated vesicles with a spherical shape. The in vitro diffusion study demonstrated that the transethosomal gel containing Carbopol 934 (1%) exhibited higher drug release compared to the HPMC K4M gels. Furthermore, the ex vivo permeation study revealed that the optimized transethosomal gel demonstrated increased permeation compared to the commercially available formulation.

Conclusion

The optimized transethosomal formulation displayed enhanced in vitro antimicrobial and in vivo anti-acne effects against Propionibacterium acnes in Wistar albino rats when compared to the marketed formulation.
Long-Term Glucocorticoid Exposure and Incident Cardiovascular Diseases—The Lifelines Cohort
Authors: van der Valk Eline S , Mohseni Mostafa , Iyer Anand M , van den Hurk Maartje J B , Lengton Robin , Kuckuck Susanne , Wester Vincent L , Leenen Pieter J M , Dik Willem A , Visser Jenny A , Kavousi Maryam , Mirzaian Mina , van den Berg Sjoerd A A , van Rossum Elisabeth F C
Published: March 2024

Context

Long-term glucocorticoid levels in scalp hair (HairGCs), including cortisol and the inactive form cortisone, represent the cumulative systemic exposure to glucocorticoids over months. HairGCs have repeatedly shown associations with cardiometabolic and immune parameters, but longitudinal data are lacking.

Design

We investigated 6341 hair samples of participants from the Lifelines cohort study for cortisol and cortisone levels and associated these to incident cardiovascular diseases (CVD) during 5 to 7 years of follow-up. We computed the odds ratio (OR) of HairGC levels for incident CVD via logistic regression, adjusting for classical cardiovascular risk factors, and performed a sensitivity analysis in subcohorts of participants < 60 years and ≥ 60 years of age. We also associated HairGC levels to immune parameters (total leukocytes and subtypes).

Results

Hair cortisone levels (available in n = 4701) were independently associated with incident CVD (P < .001), particularly in younger individuals (multivariate-adjusted OR 4.21, 95% CI 1.91-9.07 per point increase in 10-log cortisone concentration [pg/mg], P < .001). All immune parameters except eosinophils were associated with hair cortisone (all multivariate-adjusted P < .05).

Conclusion

In this large, prospective cohort study, we found that long-term cortisone levels, measured in scalp hair, represent a relevant and significant predictor for future CVD in younger individuals. These results highlight glucocorticoid action as possible treatment target for CVD prevention, where hair glucocorticoid measurements could help identify individuals that may benefit from such treatments.
A Retrospective Cohort of Tumor-Induced Osteomalacia and Case Series of Malignant Disease
Authors: Hoong Caroline Wei Shan , Sfeir Jad , Algeciras-Schimnich Alicia , Clarke Bart Lyman
Published: March 2024

Context

Tumor-induced osteomalacia (TIO) is a rare condition with evidence mostly derived from case reports and case series.

Objective

We aimed to describe the clinical characteristics of a large cohort of patients diagnosed with TIO, with a focus on patients with nonlocalizing and malignant TIO.

Methods

This is a retrospective cohort of patients with TIO in an academic medical center, diagnosed between January 1998 and May 2023. We describe their demographics, biochemistries, tumor features, localization, treatment, and complications.

Results

Of 68 patients diagnosed with TIO, 49 (72%) were localizing and 5 (7.4%) were malignant. Of 50 patients who attempted localizing procedures, 29 (58%) achieved cure. Twenty (40%) had persistent disease due to the wrong tumor targeted, or refractory or recurrent tumors, despite up to 6 procedural attempts. There was no difference in demographics, phosphorus, or baseline fibroblast growth factor-23 (FGF23) levels between localizing vs nonlocalizing groups, and malignant vs nonmalignant groups. The lower extremity was the commonest site of localization (37%), with 47% in bone and 53% in soft tissue. Sixty percent of malignant cases were located in the trunk. Tumor size correlated with peak FGF23 (R = 0.566, P < .001) but was not associated with malignancy risk (P = .479). A cut-off FGF23 of >20 times upper limit of normal in the presence of normal renal function (P = .025) and recurrence after initial cure (P = .013) were factors significantly associated with malignancy. The nonlocalizing group had lower survival than the localizing group (P = .0097).

Conclusion

TIO is a condition with significant morbidity. Very high FGF23 levels and disease recurrence are associated with malignant disease. Reasons behind the observation of higher mortality in nonlocalizing TIO should be further explored.
A Potent Neutralizing Monoclonal Antibody to Human Growth Hormone Suppresses Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1 in Female Rats
Authors: Hata Tomoyuki , Uematsu Yoshikatsu , Sugita Ayumi , Adachi Hisashi , Kato Sayaka , Hirate Maki , Ishikura Kei-ichiro , Kaku Ayaka , Ohara Hiroki , Kojima Naoki , Takahashi Teisuke , Kurokawa Tomofumi
Published: March 2024

Acromegaly and gigantism are disorders caused by hypersecretion of growth hormone (GH), usually from pituitary adenomas. Although somatostatin analogues (SSA), dopamine agonists, and GH receptor antagonists are important therapeutic agents, all of these have issues with their effectiveness, safety, and/or convenience of use. To overcome these, we developed a GH-specific potent neutralizing a mouse monoclonal antibody (mAb) named 13H02. 13H02 selectively bound both to human and monkey GH with high affinity, and strongly inhibited the biological activity of GH in the Nb2 rat lymphoma cell proliferation assay. In hypophysectomized/GH-supplemented rats, a single subcutaneous administration of 13H02 significantly and dose-dependently lowered the serum insulin-like growth factor-1 levels. To pursue the therapeutic potential of this antibody for acromegaly and gigantism, we humanized 13H02 to reduce its immunogenicity and applied a single amino acid mutation in the Fc region to extend its serum half-life. The resulting antibody, Hu-13H02m, also showed GH-specific neutralizing activity, similar to the parental 13H02, and showed improved binding affinity to human FcRn.
Targeting Cell Senescence and Senolytics: Novel Interventions for Age-Related Endocrine Dysfunction
Authors: Suda Masayoshi , Paul Karl H , Tripathi Utkarsh , Minamino Tohru , Tchkonia Tamara , Kirkland James L
Published: March 2024

Multiple changes occur in hormonal regulation with aging and across various endocrine organs. These changes are associated with multiple age-related disorders and diseases. A better understanding of responsible underling biological mechanisms could help in the management of multiple endocrine disorders over and above hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Cellular senescence is involved in multiple biological aging processes and pathologies common in elderly individuals. Cellular senescence, which occurs in many older individuals but also across the lifespan in association with tissue damage, acute and chronic diseases, certain drugs, and genetic syndromes, may contribute to such endocrine disorders as osteoporosis, metabolic syndrome, and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Drugs that selectively induce senescent cell removal, “senolytics,”, and drugs that attenuate the tissue-destructive secretory state of certain senescent cells, “senomorphics,” appear to delay the onset of or alleviate multiple diseases, including but not limited to endocrine disorders such as diabetes, complications of obesity, age-related osteoporosis, and cancers as well as atherosclerosis, chronic kidney disease, neurodegenerative disorders, and many others. More than 30 clinical trials of senolytic and senomorphic agents have already been completed, are underway, or are planned for a variety of indications. Targeting senescent cells is a novel strategy that is distinct from conventional therapies such as HRT, and thus might address unmet medical needs and can potentially amplify effects of established endocrine drug regimens, perhaps allowing for dose decreases and reducing side effects.
Erector Spinae Plane Block for Providing Labor Analgesia in a Rural Health Care Setting in India: A Case Series
Authors: Niraj G. , Manmathagowda Nikhil , Singh Jyothsna , R. Padmashri , Holla Priyanka , G. Megha , Manjunath Abhishek K.
Published: March 2024

The practice of labor analgesia is highly variable in India. Parturients are often prescribed mild opioids (tramadol and pethidine). Erector spinae plane blocks can provide widespread analgesia covering multiple dermatomes. After a process evaluation to introduce safe and effective labor analgesia mandated due to poor efficacy of the standard care, erector spinae plane analgesia was offered to nulliparous parturients. The procedure was performed under ultrasound guidance at the lumbar L4 level in 10 patients. Outcomes included pain scores. There was a major reduction in labor pain. Erector spinae plane blocks can be part of a sustainable and effective labor analgesia service.
Noninvasive Autopsy-Validated Tumor Probability Maps Identify Glioma Invasion Beyond Contrast Enhancement
Authors: Bobholz Samuel A. , Lowman Allison K. , Connelly Jennifer M. , Duenweg Savannah R. , Winiarz Aleksandra , Nath Biprojit , Kyereme Fitzgerald , Brehler Michael , Bukowy John , Coss Dylan , Lupo Janine M. , Phillips Joanna J. , Ellingson Benjamin M. , Krucoff Max O. , Mueller Wade M. , Banerjee Anjishnu , LaViolette Peter S.
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

This study identified a clinically significant subset of patients with glioma with tumor outside of contrast enhancement present at autopsy and subsequently developed a method for detecting nonenhancing tumor using radio-pathomic mapping. We tested the hypothesis that autopsy-based radio-pathomic tumor probability maps would be able to noninvasively identify areas of infiltrative tumor beyond traditional imaging signatures.

METHODS:

A total of 159 tissue samples from 65 subjects were aligned to MRI acquired nearest to death for this retrospective study. Demographic and survival characteristics for patients with and without tumor beyond the contrast-enhancing margin were computed. An ensemble algorithm was used to predict pixelwise tumor presence from pathological annotations using segmented cellularity (Cell), extracellular fluid, and cytoplasm density as input (6 train/3 test subjects). A second level of ensemble algorithms was used to predict voxelwise Cell, extracellular fluid, and cytoplasm on the full data set (43 train/22 test subjects) using 5-by-5 voxel tiles from T1, T1 + C, fluid-attenuated inversion recovery, and apparent diffusion coefficient as input. The models were then combined to generate noninvasive whole brain maps of tumor probability.

RESULTS:

Tumor outside of contrast was identified in 41.5% of patients, who showed worse survival outcomes (hazard ratio = 3.90, P < .001). Tumor probability maps reliably tracked nonenhancing tumor on a range of local and external unseen data, identifying tumor outside of contrast in 69% of presurgical cases that also showed reduced survival outcomes (hazard ratio = 1.67, P = .027).

CONCLUSION:

This study developed a multistage model for mapping gliomas using autopsy tissue samples as ground truth, which was able to identify regions of tumor beyond traditional imaging signatures.
“Home Field Advantage”: The Presence of a “Home” Neurosurgical Residency Training Program is Associated With Improved Match Outcomes
Authors: Roth Steven G. , Ortiz Alexander V. , Feldman Michael J. , Reisen Breanne E. , Mummareddy Nishit , Chitale Rohan V. , Chambless Lola B.
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Competition for neurosurgical residency training positions remains fierce. The support provided by applicants' home neurosurgery residency training programs (NRTP) is suspected to play a key role in the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) process. We sought to evaluate the impact of the presence of an Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education–accredited NRTP at medical students' home institutions has on NRMP match outcomes.

METHODS:

Our cross-sectional observational study examined all US allopathic senior student Electronic Residency Application Service applications to a single NRTP from 2016 to 2022.

RESULTS:

We analyzed a total of 1650 Electronic Residency Application Service applications to a single NRTP, of which 1432 (86.8%) were from schools with an Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education–accredited NRTP (NRTP+) and 218 (13.2%) were from schools without a residency (NRTP−). NRTP+ applicants matched a higher rate on both pooled analysis (80.8% vs 71.6%, P = .002) and paired analysis (P = .02) over the seven-cycle study period. This difference was present before (82.4% vs 73.9%, P = .01) and after (77.2% vs 65.6%, P = .046) the COVID-19 pandemic. Cohorts were overall similar; however, NRTP+ applicants had more publication experiences (19.6 ± 19.0 vs 13.1 ± 10.2, P < .001) and were more likely to complete a research gap year (RGY) (25.8% vs 17.0%, P = .004). Completing a RGY was associated with an increased likelihood of matching for NRTP+ applicants but not for NRTP− applicants: NRTP+: 84.9% vs 78.1% (P = .0056); NRTP−: 70.3% vs 70.9% (P = .94).

CONCLUSION:

The presence of a NRTP at a medical student's home institution is associated with improved NRMP match outcomes. This held true both before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Applicants from schools with a NRTP had more publication experiences and were more likely to complete a RGY. Completion of a RGY is associated with an increased likelihood of matching only for students with an affiliated NRTP.
Nesting the Sino-Russian Border and the Tumen Project in the Asia-Pacific: Heilongjiang’s Regional Relations
Authors: Christoffersen Gaye
Published: March 2024

Abstract: Scholars studying China’s relations with Asia-Pacific regimes, Northeast Asian regimes, and the Sino-Russian border have treated each regime as independent and separate from the others—as parallel institutions with incompatible rules and norms. This article argues that China’s capacity to create parallel institutions is limited by the norms of the regional and subregional regimes that make up the East Asian international system and transnational linkages developed at the local level. An evolving Chinese definition of national interests in regional cooperation is the result of international learning, involving processes of bargaining domestically and internationally. The Sino-Russian border regime and the Northeast Asian regime forming around the Tumen River project are shaped by domestic center-local bargaining and differences. Heilongjiang Province has sought to be the center of China’s participation in regional economic cooperation in competition with and Jilin provinces, redefining China’s international comparative advantage, changing the nature of Chinese participation in the Tumen project, and provoking a local Russian backlash in the Russian Far East.
Rural Enterprise Development and Regional Policy in China
Authors: Yang Dali L. , Wei Houkai
Published: March 2024

Abstract: An issue of growing salience in Chinese politics is the widening income disparities between the more prosperous coastal region and the interior regions. This article provides a preliminary assessment of a government initiative to promote interior development through rural enterprises. It first discusses the factors that led central leaders to consider disparities in regional rural enterprise development as the crux of rising regional inequalities and thus the rationale for a regional policy centered on rural enterprises. Next, the key policy components, including credit availability, tax incentives, and an effort to induce interregional cooperation, are presented. Local government responses are described and analyzed, as is the East-West Rural Enterprise Cooperation Project. The conclusion is that while the rural enterprise initiative has been a worthwhile effort, it will probably have only limited impact on the reduction of regional disparities.
Electoral Volatility in New Democracies and Democratic Consolidation
Authors: Chung Jin Min
Published: March 2024

Abstract: Democratic consolidation is the most important task to be accomplished by countries newly democratized over the last two decades. However, most new democracies with only a few exceptions have difficulties to various degrees in consolidating democracy. The primary aim of this paper is to get a clearer idea of the difficulties which new democracies are now facing by examining patterns and contributing factors of electoral volatility in four new democracies, that is, three East European countries (Hungary, the Czech Republic and Poland) and one East Asian country (South Korea). The level of electoral volatility in terms of vote and seat share in these countries is extremely high. Regarding future prospects for democratic consolidation, however, a more important conclusion is that each country has a quite different combination of factors contributing to electoral volatility, implying that prospects for democratic consolidation might also differ, depending on these characteristics.
Democratization in South Korea: Social Movements and Their Political Opportunity Structures
Authors: Yun Seongyi
Published: March 2024

Abstract: This paper analyzes the efforts and roles of social movements during democratization in South Korea from 1980 to 1987. The basic assumption of this study is that civil society’s preparedness was more critical than any other factor in the success or failure of democratization in South Korea. This study refutes the basic assumption of elite-focused theories of democratization, which argue that no transition to democracy is possible without significant divisions within the authoritarian regime itself. The preparedness of civil society for democracy is indicated by two factors: the resources of social movement organizations, and the alliances of diverse social sectors, including student, labor, dissident groups and the urban poor. The amount of resources and the relative success of alliances are influenced by four aspects of the political opportunity structure: repression of the state, elite fragmentation, external support and the overall power configuration in the political society.
Confucianism, Economic Growth and Democracy
Authors: Kim Kyong-Dong
Published: March 2024

Abstract: While abundant works have been produced to examine the role of Confucianism in economic development and the relationship of economic growth with democracy, in the discourses dealing with Confucianism and development are generally missing a systematic look at the intricate interrelationship between Confucianism, economic growth and the democratic transition and/or consolidation. This paper is an attempt to locate this missing link among the three phenomena on a theoretical plane, illustrating the points by the historical experience of East Asia, particularly Korea. Since many have misconstrued the nature of Confucianism in introducing it in the development discourse, it needs to be carefully redefined in the relevant historical context in order to understand its role in the economic and political development of East Asia. Historically, Confucianism has been a negative and at most a passive cultural element in either economic or political modernization. Some aspects of it are still an obstacle, especially to democracy. Confucian ways of thinking and behavior that have long been embodied in the culture and psyche of East Asian societies must have played a role in promoting economic growth and democratic change. Theoretical and historical studies should be able to carefully discern these elements.
Rediscovering Security
Authors: Woods Lawrence T.
Published: March 2024

Abstract: The argument that we must redefine our conception of security in the late 20th century is challenged here by observing that we are actually rediscovering security as understood amidst the Idealism of the post-World War I period. The contemporary relevance of the nongovernmental Institute of Pacific Relations (IPR) is demonstrated, as is its connection to the recently established Council for Security Cooperation in the Asia-Pacific (CSCAP) and the intergovernmental ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF). By examining IPR’s origins, objectives, and structures, the multidimensional definition of security invoked in its track two or unofficial diplomatic activities are shown to be strikingly similar to the redefined versions of security now popular in the region and elsewhere. What institutional and theoretical innovations can we see or hope for in CSCAP, a body that could arguably be portrayed as the IPR reincarnated?
Japan: Confronting an Uncertain Future
Authors: Jameson Sam
Published: March 2024

Abstract: Can Japanese politics evolve into a system capable of producing regular changes in government? Can elections be focused on policy debate? Or will personalities and the pork barrel continue to prevail? All political parties are crying for reform, but how much significant change can be implemented? Has an economy that has been the envy of the world between 1960 and 1990 lost its vitality? Has Japan fallen into the lethargy of “economic maturity” in which living standards can no longer be improved? Can Japan emerge from a half century of “one-nation pacifism, “caring only for its own welfare and treating foreign conflicts as “fires on the other side of a river?” Can the United States and Japan establish a partnership in defense with a more equitable sharing of the dangers and the dirty work of security? These are the three big questions facing Japan today.
A Tumultuous Season: Globalization and the Korean Case
Authors: Mansbach Richard W. , Suh Dong Won
Published: March 2024

Abstract: During the autumn of 1997, the Republic of Korea experienced two important events with very different implications and meanings. On the one hand, Korea’s young democracy took a major step forward with the election of Kim Dae-jung as the country’s president. At virtually the same time, the country was traumatized by a financial crisis that threatened to bring about a collapse of the country’s economy. Both those most responsible for the crisis, especially the chaebols, as well as those in a position to assist Koreans to overcome it, such as foreign banks and the IMF, are not accountable to the Korean electorate. The crisis, then, as well as globalization more generally, poses a challenge to Korean democracy. If democracy weathers the challenge, it will be firmly institutionalized; whether it will do so remains in doubt at the present.
Lessons from Two Latino Communities Working with Academic Partners to Increase Access to COVID-19 Testing
Authors: Garibay Kesia K. , Durazo Arturo , Vizcaíno Tatiana , Oviedo Yolanda , Marson Kara , Arechiga Carina , Prado Patric , Carrera Omar , Alvarado Manuel J. , Havlir Diane V. , Rojas Susana , Chamie Gabriel , Marquez Carina , Sauceda John , Yen Irene H. , De Trinidad Young Maria-Elena
Published: March 2024

Abstract: Objective: We sought to examine the experiences of community partners in a community–academic partnership to promote COVID-19 testing in two majority Latino communities. Methods: We conducted semistructured, in-depth interviews in English and Spanish with community-based organization leaders and community health workers/ promotoras ( n = 10) from June to July 2021. Interviews focused on identifying partner roles in planning and testing implementation and evaluating communication among partners. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed in ATLAS.ti version 8.4.5. Analyses involved deductive and inductive approaches to identify key themes. Results: Participants described both strengths and challenges to the collaborative approach within each of three core themes: building relationships in the time of COVID-19; uplifting existing community leadership; and commitment of the academic partners and community-based organizations to conduct partnership activities in Spanish. Conclusion: Community–academic partnerships that invest in strong relationships, community leadership, and a commitment to the community's preferred language offer a promising approach to addressing COVID-19 testing barriers. Findings provide direction for future research on how community members and academic partners can come together to inform strategies to continue addressing the COVID-19 pandemic.
Challenges and Lessons from Conducting a Community-Engaged Evaluation of a Community Advisory Board–A Case Study from Flint
Authors: Cargill Stephanie Solomon , Spencer Bryan , Spencer Briah
Published: March 2024

Abstract: Community-engaged research often poses challenges due to exactly those qualities that make it desirable: it provides a new model of research that differs in many ways from top-down, university-led, prospectively designed approaches. While many have discussed the challenges to conducting community-engaged research, few have provided precise and generalizable lessons for how to surmount these challenges. Here we discuss the challenges experienced in a project that was community-engaged at three levels: 1) a research team consisting of an academic and a community partner as well as a community and academic research assistant, 2) the research team engaged with a Community Advisory Board called the CBOP-CERB (Community Based Organization Partners-Community Ethics Research Board) throughout the project, and 3) the research involved recruiting community participants from an area with a historical distrust of researchers and research: Flint Michigan. We also discuss administrative challenges that this multilevel community-engagement posed. Most important, we provide practical lessons in order for future community-engaged research to avoid or mitigate many of these challenges.
Infectious Disease Preparedness for Homeless Populations: Recommendations from a Community–Academic Partnership
Authors: Rodriguez Natalia M. , Ziolkowski Rebecca , Hicks Jodie , Dearing Michelle , Layton Jennifer , Balser Amanda , Paton Grace , Loomis Gregory
Published: March 2024

Abstract: Background: People experiencing homelessness are at increased risk of infectious disease transmission due to congregate living conditions, barriers to healthcare, and excess burden of underlying chronic disease. Objectives: We are a multisectoral community–academic partnership working to address the intersecting crises of homelessness and health disparities in Tippecanoe County, Indiana. We offer key recommendations for infectious disease preparedness and risk mitigation for homeless populations based on our ongoing community-based participatory research and lessons learned through COVID-19 response and Monkeypox preparations. Lessons Learned: Infectious disease preparedness and response in homeless populations requires strong local partnerships; ongoing training and support for staff and volunteers of homeless shelters and service agencies; tailored outreach, education, and communication with people experiencing homelessness; and standardized processes for creating, disseminating, enforcing, and evaluating public health policies in homeless shelters. Consistency and open communication are key to a successful community-academic partnership. Conclusions: Community–academic partnerships are critical to effective infectious disease preparedness in homeless populations. The lessons learned from community-based participatory research with homeless communities and multisectoral partners on the frontline can improve future outbreak and pandemic response for people experiencing homelessness and other vulnerable communities in the United States.
Coherent O-band WDM transmission of DP-16QAM over a 50-km BDFA-amplified link
Authors: Taengnoi Natsupa , Bottrill Kyle R. H. , Hong Yang , Yu Wang , Sahu Jayanta , Hanzo Lajos , Richardson David J. , Petropoulos Periklis
Published: March 2024

We present wavelength-division multiplexed coherent transmission in an O-band amplified link enabled by bismuth-doped fiber amplifiers (BDFAs). Transmission of 4 × 25 GBd DP-16QAM (4 × 200 Gb/s) is demonstrated over a single span of 50-km length, occupying a bandwidth of 4.7 THz across the wavelengths 1323 nm to 1351 nm.
1064 nm rotational Raman polarization lidar for profiling aerosol and cloud characteristics
Authors: Wang Longlong , Yin Zhenping , Lu Tong , Yi Yang , Dong Xiangyu , Dai Yaru , Bu Zhichao , Chen Yubao , Wang Xuan
Published: March 2024

The vertical profiles of aerosol or mixed-phase cloud optical properties (e.g. extinction coefficient) at 1064 nm are difficult to obtain from lidar observations. Based on the techniques of rotational Raman signal at 1058 nm described by Haarig et al. [ Atmos. Meas. Tech. 9, 4269 (2016)10.5194/amt-9-4269-2016 ], we have developed a novel rotational Raman polarization lidar at 1064 nm at Wuhan University. In this design, we optimized the central wavelength of the rotational Raman channel to 1056 nm with a bandwidth of 6 nm to increase the signal-to-noise ratio and minimize the temperature dependence of the extracted rotational Raman spectrum. And then separated elastic polarization channels (1064 nm Parallel, P and 1064 nm Cross, S) into near range (low 1064 nm P and 1064 nm S) and far range detection channels (high 1064 nm P and 1064 nm S) to extend the dynamic range of lidar observation. Silicon single photon avalanche diodes (SPAD) working at photon counting mode were applied to improve the quantum efficiency and reduce the electronic noise, which resulted in quantum efficiency of 2.5%. With a power of 3 W diode pumped pulsed Nd:YAG laser and aperture of 250 mm Cassegrain telescope, the detectable range can cover the atmosphere from 0.3 km to the top troposphere (about 12-15 km). To the best of our knowledge, the design of this novel lidar system is described and the mixed-phase cloud and aerosol optical properties observations of backscatter coefficients, extinction coefficients, lidar ratio and depolarization ratio at 1064 nm were performed as demonstrations of the system capabilities.
Femtosecond laser writing of fiber Bragg gratings using the phase mask technique: a geometrical optics analysis based on the Bravais refractive index
Authors: Hnatovsky Cyril , Mihailov Stephen J.
Published: March 2024

Material modification is produced inside silica-based optical fibers of different diameters using tightly focused near-infrared (central wavelength at 800 nm) femtosecond laser pulses and the phase mask technique which is often employed for laser inscription of fiber Bragg gratings. 1st-, 2nd-, and 3rd-order phase masks designed for the operation at 800 nm are used in the experiments. The inscription is performed at different distances from the fiber’s front surface by translating the focusing cylindrical lens along the laser beam propagation direction. The results show that the material modification produced by means of the 2nd- and 3rd-order phase mask can be positioned at any predetermined distance from the fiber’s front surface. In contrast, when the 1st-order mask is used for laser writing, the maximum distance from the fiber’s front surface at which material modification can be produced is limited and determined by three main parameters: the diffraction angle of the phase mask, the refractive index of the fiber and the diameter of the fiber.
Slow-light-enhanced Brillouin scattering with integrated Bragg grating
Authors: Xu Mingyu , Lei Peng , Bai Yunhui , Chen Zhangyuan , Xie Xiaopeng
Published: March 2024

Advancements in photonic integration technology have enabled the effective excitation of simulated Brillouin scattering (SBS) on a single chip, boosting Brillouin-based applications such as microwave photonic signal processing, narrow-linewidth lasers, and optical sensing. However, on-chip circuits still require large pump power and centimeter-scale waveguide length to achieve a considerable Brillouin gain, making them both power-inefficient and challenging for integration. Here, we exploit the slow-light effect to significantly enhance SBS, presenting the first, to the best of our knowledge, demonstration of a slow-light Brillouin-active waveguide on the silicon-on-insulator (SOI) platform. By integrating a Bragg grating with a suspended ridge waveguide, a 2.1-fold enhancement of the forward Brillouin gain coefficient is observed in a 1.25 mm device. Furthermore, this device shows a Brillouin gain coefficient of 1,693 m−1W−1 and a mechanical quality factor of 1,080. The short waveguide length reduces susceptibility to inhomogeneous broadening, enabling the simultaneous achievement of a high Brillouin gain coefficient and a high mechanical quality factor. This approach introduces an additional dimension to enhance acousto-optic interaction efficiency in the SOI platform and holds significant potential for microwave photonic filters and high spatial resolution sensing.
Social bonding in groups of humans selectively increases inter-status information exchange and prefrontal neural synchronization
Authors: Ni Jun , Yang Jiaxin , Ma Yina
Published: March 2024

Social groups in various social species are organized with hierarchical structures that shape group dynamics and the nature of within-group interactions. In-group social bonding, exemplified by grooming behaviors among animals and collective rituals and team-building activities in human societies, is recognized as a practical adaptive strategy to foster group harmony and stabilize hierarchical structures in both human and nonhuman animal groups. However, the neurocognitive mechanisms underlying the effects of social bonding on hierarchical groups remain largely unexplored. Here, we conducted simultaneous neural recordings on human participants engaged in-group communications within small hierarchical groups (n = 528, organized into 176 three-person groups) to investigate how social bonding influenced hierarchical interactions and neural synchronizations. We differentiated interpersonal interactions between individuals of different (inter-status) or same (intra-status) social status and observed distinct effects of social bonding on inter-status and intra-status interactions. Specifically, social bonding selectively increased frequent and rapid information exchange and prefrontal neural synchronization for inter-status dyads but not intra-status dyads. Furthermore, social bonding facilitated unidirectional neural alignment from group leader to followers, enabling group leaders to predictively align their prefrontal activity with that of followers. These findings provide insights into how social bonding influences hierarchical dynamics and neural synchronization while highlighting the role of social status in shaping the strength and nature of social bonding experiences in human groups.
SMARCAL1 ubiquitylation controls its association with RPA-coated ssDNA and promotes replication fork stability
Authors: Yates Maïlyn , Marois Isabelle , St-Hilaire Edlie , Ronato Daryl A. , Djerir Billel , Brochu Chloé , Morin Théo , Hammond-Martel Ian , Gezzar-Dandashi Sari , Casimir Lisa , Drobetsky Elliot , Cappadocia Laurent , Masson Jean-Yves , Wurtele Hugo , Maréchal Alexandre
Published: March 2024

Impediments in replication fork progression cause genomic instability, mutagenesis, and severe pathologies. At stalled forks, RPA-coated single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) activates the ATR kinase and directs fork remodeling, 2 key early events of the replication stress response. RFWD3, a recently described Fanconi anemia (FA) ubiquitin ligase, associates with RPA and promotes its ubiquitylation, facilitating late steps of homologous recombination (HR). Intriguingly, RFWD3 also regulates fork progression, restart and stability via poorly understood mechanisms. Here, we used proteomics to identify putative RFWD3 substrates during replication stress in human cells. We show that RFWD3 interacts with and ubiquitylates the SMARCAL1 DNA translocase directly in vitro and following DNA damage in vivo. SMARCAL1 ubiquitylation does not trigger its subsequent proteasomal degradation but instead disengages it from RPA thereby regulating its function at replication forks. Proper regulation of SMARCAL1 by RFWD3 at stalled forks protects them from excessive MUS81-mediated cleavage in response to UV irradiation, thereby limiting DNA replication stress. Collectively, our results identify RFWD3-mediated SMARCAL1 ubiquitylation as a novel mechanism that modulates fork remodeling to avoid genome instability triggered by aberrant fork processing.