bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of visibility limiting conditions on satellite and high-altitude platform quantum key distribution links
Authors: Eso Elizabeth , Simmons Cameron , Buller Gerald S. , Donaldson Ross
Published: July 2024

Satellite and aerial platforms are critical in the deployment of global quantum communications networks. Currently, there remain significant challenges including operation during daytime and robustness to visibility limiting conditions. In this work we investigate, through simulation, the impact of visibility limiting conditions on low-Earth orbit CubeSat dimensioned satellites, small satellites and high-altitude platform implementations. Three different operational wavelengths were considered: currently used near-infrared (at 850 nm); next-generation short-wave infrared (at 1550 nm); and a candidate longer wavelength (at 2133 nm). We present channel attenuation and consider quantum key distribution (QKD) system performance parameters. Results indicate that the “best wavelength” for an implementation depends on the minimum visibility rated and the single-photon detector technology utilized. In the cases where tolerated meteorological visibility is short, 1550 nm and 2133 nm wavelengths provide better performance. In cases when the visibility is long, the operational wavelength of 850 nm provides better QKD system performance.
Terahertz optical pattern recognition with rotation and scaling enhanced by a 3D-printed diffractive deep neural network
Authors: Xiong Chenjie , Wu Xudong , Huang Jianzhou , Zhang Jia , Hu Bin
Published: July 2024

Optical pattern recognition (OPR) has the potential to be a valuable tool in the field of terahertz (THz) imaging, with the advantage of being capable of image recognition with single-point detection, which reduces the overall system costs. However, this application is limited in the traditional OPR that rotation and scaling of the input image will bring about an offset of the recognition spot. Here we demonstrate a full-diffractive method to maintain the recognition spot at a fixed position, even when the input image is rotated or scaled, by using an all-optical diffractive deep neural network. The network is composed of two layers of diffractive optical elements (DOEs) without a 4f-system, and 3D-printed all-in-one. Experimental results show that our device can achieve a stable recognition of the input image regardless of its rotation (from 0° to 360°) or scaling (with a ratio from 1 to 1/1.9). This work is expected to provide enhanced functionality for compact THz systems in imaging and security applications.
Fabrication of SNAP structures by wire heating
Authors: Kudashkin Dmitry , Sumetsky Michael , Vatnik Ilya
Published: July 2024

Surface Nanoscale Axial Photonics (SNAP) is a promising technological platform for creating novel optical devices such as compact high-Q tunable delay lines, signal processors, and optical comb generators. For this purpose, the development of simple and reliable methods for the accurate introduction of a nanometer-scale variation of the optical fiber surface is desirable. Here, we present an easy-to-implement technique for the introduction of nanoscale variations of the effective optical fiber radius by annealing with a heated metal wire. Using the proposed method, we introduce modifications of the fiber effective radius with accuracy better than 0.1 nm without post-processing, making the proposed approach the simplest alternative to the previously developed SNAP fabrication techniques.
Quantification of the Removal and Inactivation of Virus Particles
Authors: Mueller Lisa , Hashley Jeremiah
Published: July 2024

Researchers from the Netherlands have developed and demonstrated a new method of quantifying and characterizing antiviral properties of polymer-functionalized surfaces for virus filtration and inactivation. Specifically, a polyethylenimine (PEI)-coated poly(ether sulfone) (PES) micro-filtration membrane was used to adsorb, inactivate, as well as disassemble virus capsids. Using fluorescence microscopy, spectroscopy, and single particle counting, only a small fraction (1%) of intact viruses can pass through the membrane, and a large fraction of viruses became inactivated and disassembled. Not only does the virus adsorb onto the PEI coating, it also interacts with PEI to disassemble the virus capsid. This new method provides a simpler and faster quantification and characterization technique for virus filtration and inactivation in the medical and biological world.
Watt-level long-term stable ultra-narrow linewidth 1064 nm single-longitudinal-mode ring cavity fiber oscillator
Authors: Pan Hao , Liu Xiaobing , Liu Haowei , Yang Xiumei , Qian Cheng
Published: July 2024

This study presents a high-power, single-longitudinal-mode (SLM) fiber oscillator with a ring cavity design, operating at 1064 nm. Utilizing a double-cladding ytterbium-doped fiber as the gain medium, the system incorporates a fiber Bragg grating Fabry-Perot cavity and a dual coupler ring for step-by-step filtering to achieve SLM operation. With a pump power of 4.19 W, the oscillator delivered an output power of 1.01 W and narrowed the linewidth to 147 Hz, with potential for further power increase. The oscillator demonstrated excellent stability, maintaining mode-hop-free operation for 8.7 hours after temperature stabilization. To the best of our knowledge, this work represents the longest duration of mode-hop-free operation and the narrowest laser linewidth achieved by a free-running ring-cavity SLM fiber oscillator at watt-level output powers.
Phenotypic memory in quorum sensing
Authors: Ostovar Ghazaleh , Boedicker James Q.
Published: July 2024

Quorum sensing (QS) is a regulatory mechanism used by bacteria to coordinate group behavior in response to high cell densities. During QS, cells monitor the concentration of external signals, known as autoinducers, as a proxy for cell density. QS often involves positive feedback loops, leading to the upregulation of genes associated with QS signal production and detection. This results in distinct steady-state concentrations of QS-related molecules in QS-ON and QS-OFF states. Due to the slow decay rates of biomolecules such as proteins, even after removal of the initial stimuli, cells can retain elevated levels of QS-associated biomolecules for extended periods of time. This persistence of biomolecules after the removal of the initial stimuli has the potential to impact the response to future stimuli, indicating a memory of past exposure. This phenomenon, which is a consequence of the carry-over of biomolecules rather than genetic inheritance, is known as "phenotypic" memory. This theoretical study aims to investigate the presence of phenotypic memory in QS and the conditions that influence this memory. Numerical simulations based on ordinary differential equations and analytical modeling were used to study gene expression in response to sudden changes in cell density and extracellular signal concentrations. The model examined the effect of various cellular parameters on the strength of QS memory and the impact on gene regulatory dynamics. The findings revealed that QS memory has a transient effect on the expression of QS-responsive genes. These consequences of QS memory depend strongly on how cell density was perturbed, as well as various cellular parameters, including the Fold Change in the expression of QS-regulated genes, the autoinducer synthesis rate, the autoinducer threshold required for activation, and the cell growth rate.
Systemic risk spillover between the stock market and banking deposits: Evidence from a sustainability perspective in the South Asian countries
Authors: Liu Linshan , Rafique Amir , Abbas Naseem , Umer Quddoos Muhammad , Ahmad Muhammad Munir , Siddiqi Arslan Ahmad
Published: July 2024

This research explores the link between stock markets and banking deposits in South Asian (Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka, Nepal) countries. This study empirically examines the systemic risk potential of financial institutions in South Asia using current systemic risk statistics. Yearly data on stock prices and banking deposits from January 2000 to December 2020 were analyzed using a two-stage process. In the first phase, we measure VaR (value at risk), and in the second step, we measure the DCC GARCH model for our empirical analysis. The study findings reveal systemic risk spillover between the stock markets of South Asian countries and the relevant country’s banking system deposits. The policymakers can use our study findings to create a more sustainable financial sector.
Observational study of effects of HIV acquisition and antiretroviral treatment on biomarkers of systemic immune activation
Authors: Kosmider Ewelina , Wallner Jackson , Gervassi Ana , Bender Ignacio Rachel A. , Pinto-Santini Delia , Gornalusse German , Pandey Urvashi , Hladik Florian , Edlefsen Paul T. , Lama Javier R. , Duerr Ann C. , Frenkel Lisa M.
Published: July 2024

To assess whether biomarkers of systemic inflammation are associated with HIV acquisition or with the timing of ART initiation (“immediate”, at diagnosis, versus “deferred”, at 24 weeks post-diagnosis) in men-who-have-sex-with-men (MSM) and transgender women, we conducted a retrospective study comparing inflammatory biomarkers in participants’ specimens collected before infection and after ≥2 years of effective ART. We measured biomarkers in four longitudinally collected plasma, including two specimens collected from each participant before and two after HIV acquisition and confirmed ART-suppression. Biomarkers were quantified by enzyme-linked immuno-assay or Meso Scale Discovery. When evaluating systematic variation in these markers over time, we found that multiple biomarkers consistently varied across participants’ two pre-infection or two post-ART-suppression specimens. Additionally, we compared changes in biomarkers after vs before HIV acquisition. Across 47 participants, the levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), monocyte chemo-attractant protein-1, tumor necrosis factor-α and interferon gamma-induced protein-10 significantly increased while leptin and lipopolysaccharide binding protein (LBP) significantly decreased following HIV infection. Randomization to deferred-ART initiation was associated with greater increases in CRP and no decrease in LBP. Acquisition of HIV appeared to induce systemic inflammation, with elevation of biomarkers previously associated with infections and cardiovascular disease. Initiation of ART during the early weeks of infection tempered the increase in pro-inflammatory biomarkers compared to delaying ART for ~24 weeks after HIV diagnosis. These findings provide insight into potential mediators by which immediate-ART initiation improves health outcomes, perhaps because immediate-ART limits the size of the HIV reservoir or limits immune dysregulation that in turn trigger systemic inflammation.
Deep-Learning-Based detection of recreational vessels in an estuarine soundscape in the May River, South Carolina, USA
Authors: Ji Yiming , Marian Alyssa D. , Montie Eric W.
Published: July 2024

This paper presents a deep-learning-based method to detect recreational vessels. The method takes advantage of existing underwater acoustic measurements from an Estuarine Soundscape Observatory Network based in the estuaries of South Carolina (SC), USA. The detection method is a two-step searching method, called Deep Scanning (DS), which includes a time-domain energy analysis and a frequency-domain spectrum analysis. In the time domain, acoustic signals with higher energy, measured by sound pressure level (SPL), are labeled for the potential existence of moving vessels. In the frequency domain, the labeled acoustic signals are examined against a predefined training dataset using a neural network. This research builds training data using diverse vessel sound features obtained from real measurements, with a duration between 5.0 seconds and 7.5 seconds and a frequency between 800 Hz to 10,000 Hz. The proposed method was then evaluated using all acoustic data in the years 2017, 2018, and 2021, respectively; a total of approximately 171,262 2-minute.wav files at three deployed locations in May River, SC. The DS detections were compared to human-observed detections for each audio file and results showed the method was able to classify the existence of vessels, with an average accuracy of around 99.0%.
Work at high altitude and non-fatal cardiovascular disease associated with unfitness to work: Prospective cohort observation
Authors: Vinnikov Denis , Saktapov Akylbek , Romanova Zhanna , Ualiyeva Aliya , Krasotski Viktor
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Mining at high altitude exposes workers to hypoxic environment and cold climate in addition to conventional hazards in mining, but very little is known on how to define fitness to work in prospective candidates with pre-existing conditions. The aim of the current study was to define the incidence of cardiovascular diseases leading to unfitness to work as well as their predictors in a prospective observation.

Methods

A total of 569 prospective employees (median age 34 (interquartile range (IQR) 28;40) years, 95% men 85% mid-altitude residents) for a high-altitude gold mine in Kyrgyzstan operating at 3800–4500 meters above sea level were screened at pre-employment in 2009–2012 and followed by January 2022. Cox regression was used to quantify the association of baseline demographics and physiological variables with newly diagnosed cardiovascular diseases (CVD) leading to unfitness to work, expressed as hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Results

With 5190 person-years of observation, 155 (27%) workers have left work, of whom 23 had a newly identified CVD leading to unfitness to work (cumulative incidence 4%) with no difference between drivers and other occupations, despite greater blood pressure and body mass index (BMI) in the former at baseline. Age (HR 1.13 (95% CI 1.06;1.22) and BMI (HR 1.18 (95% CI 1.04;1.34)) were associated with a greater chance of having CVD, adjusted for lung function, baseline diagnoses, year of employment and baseline blood pressure. Narrowing the analysis to only men, drivers, smokers and even middle-altitude residents did not change the effect.

Conclusion

These findings confirmed high efficacy of pre-employment screening limiting access of workers with advanced conditions to work which later yielded low CVD incidence. In addition to conventional contraindications to work at high altitude, age and high BMI should be considered when a decision is made.
Investigating the role of obesity, circadian disturbances and lifestyle factors in people with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder: Study protocol for the SOMBER trial
Authors: Kolind Mikkel EI , Kruse Rikke , Petersen Anni S. , Larsen Charlotte S. , Bak Lasse K. , Højlund Kurt , Beier Christoph P. , Stenager Elsebeth , Juhl Claus B.
Published: July 2024

The aim of this study is to investigate circadian rhythms in independently living adults with obesity and mental disease, exploring the interplay between biological markers and lifestyle factors. Eighty participants divided equally into four groups; (i) people with obesity and schizophrenia; (ii) people with obesity and bipolar disorder; (iii) people with obesity without mental disease or sleep disorders, and (iv) people without obesity, mental disease or sleep disorders. Over two consecutive days, participants engage in repeated self-sampling of hair follicle and saliva; concurrently, data is collected on diet, body temperature, light exposure, sleep parameters, and physical activity by accelerometry. Hair follicles are analyzed for circadian gene expression, saliva samples for cortisol and melatonin concentrations. Circadian rhythms are investigated by cosinor analysis. The study employs a participant-tailored sampling schedule to minimize disruptions to daily routine and enhance ecological validity. The methodology aims to provide a comprehensive insight into the factors contributing to circadian disruptions in people with obesity, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, potentially informing strategies for future management and mitigation.

Trial registration: (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05413486).
Effect of ripening time on the content of bioactive peptides and fatty acids profile of Artisanal Coalho cheese
Authors: Bezerra Débora A. F. V. A. , Souza Karoline M. S. , Sales Danielle C. , Araújo Emmanuella O. M. , Urbano Stela A. , Cipolat-Gotet Claudio , Anaya Katya , Ribeiro Cláudio V. D. M. , Porto Ana Lúcia F. , Rangel Adriano H. N.
Published: July 2024

The present study aimed to investigate the influence of ripening on the physicochemical, microbiological aspects, and fatty acid profile of Artisanal Coalho Cheeses and to detect if there are peptides with bioactive potential in their composition. Artisanal Coalho Cheese samples were kindly provided by a dairy farm located in Brazil in the Rio Grande do Norte state. A completely randomized design was adopted, with four maturation periods (0, 30, 45, and 60 days). Physicochemical traits (pH, total solids, moisture, non-fat solids, fat in total solids, protein, ash, fatty acid profile) and microbiological characterization (Salmonella sp, Listeria monocytogenes, total and thermotolerant coliforms, Staphylococcus aureus) were analyzed on cheese samples. Additionally, assays were performed for antioxidant and antihypertensive bioactivity through ACE and antimicrobial inhibition of the peptides extracted from the samples. There was a linear increase in total solids and ash content and a decrease in moisture content with increasing maturation time. The matured cheese samples had a lower pH than fresh Artisanal Coalho Cheese. Twenty-seven fatty acids were identified in the cheeses: 15 saturated, 07 monounsaturated, and 05 polyunsaturated, with a linear reduction of essential fatty acids (n6 and n3) during maturation. The microbiological quality of the cheeses was satisfactory, with an absence of undesirable bacteria in 92% of the cheese samples. Water-soluble peptide fractions from all periods tested showed antioxidant and antihypertensive potential with ACE control, and the maturation process potentiated these capacities, with a decline in these activities observed at 60 days. The antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria increased with maturation, reaching better results until 60 days. The maturation process on wooden planks in the periods of 30, 45, and 60 days allows the production of Artisanal Coalho Cheese of an innovative character, safe to consumers from the microbiological point of view, with differentiated physicochemical and functional characteristics and good quality of lipid fraction compared to fresh cheese, enabling the addition of value to the dairy chain.
A scoping review of the use of traditional medicine for the management of ailments in West Africa
Authors: D’Almeida Selassi A. , Gbomor Sahr E. , Osaio-Kamara Brima , Olagunju Mobolaji Timothy , Abodunrin Olunike Rebecca , Foláyan Morẹ́nikẹ́ Oluwátóyìn
Published: July 2024

Background

The coexistence of traditional healing practices deeply rooted in cultural and historical contexts and the evolving landscape of modern healthcare approaches in West African societies creates a dynamic interplay between tradition and modernity in healthcare. This study aims to comprehensively map the landscape of traditional medicine use for health in West Africa.

Methods

A scoping review was conducted following the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology and reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines. Research questions focused on the links between traditional medicine practices and health in West Africa. The systematic literature search covered PubMed, Web of Science, and CINAHL from database inception to September 2023. A descriptive analysis was conducted highlighting the years of publication, countries of publication, study designs of plant families and plant parts used for making traditional medicines, and the diseases the traditional remedies are for.

Results

The search identified 3484 records, with 46 articles meeting the inclusion criteria. Publications spanned from 1979 to 2023, with no observed trend in the number of publications over successive decades. Nigeria had the highest number of publications (54.3%), followed by Ghana (19.6%). The studies employed various designs, including clinical trials, ethnobotanical, ethnopharmacological, and experimental designs. Plant families frequently studied included Combretaceae, Euphorbiaceae, and Rubiaceae. Traditional remedies address various health issues, highlighting their versatility, from general symptoms to specific diseases.

Conclusion

This scoping review offers an extensive overview of traditional healing practices in West Africa. The studies highlighted in this review stress the necessity for culturally sensitive healthcare interventions. The widespread use of traditional medicine and the variety of practices underscore the importance of encouraging collaboration between traditional healers and modern healthcare professionals. This review also identifies knowledge gaps and areas needing further research, setting the stage for future exploration into West Africa’s intricate healthcare landscape.
Correlation between dysbiosis of vaginal microecology and endometriosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Qing Xuemei , Xie Min , Liu Ping , Feng Ou , Leng Hong , Guo Hongying , Zhang Yong , Ma Ying , Zheng Wenxin
Published: July 2024

Background

Endometriosis, a complex gynecological condition, involves inflammation and immune dysregulation. The vaginal microbiota, characterized by its diversity, is an integral part of the vaginal microecology—interacting with vaginal anatomy, the endocrine system, and local mucosal immunity. Imbalances in this microecology are known to precipitate various inflammatory diseases. Despite extensive research, the connection between vaginal microbiota dysbiosis and endometriosis remains a subject of debate. Our study assesses the association between vaginal microecology dysbiosis and endometriosis.

Methods

We systematically searched major electronic databases in English, including Embase, PubMed, The Cochrane Library, MEDLINE (Ovid), BIOSIS (Ovid), China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and Wanfang, up to August 15, 2023. Selected articles underwent screening based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Normal vaginal microecology was defined as a negative Amsel/Spiegel test or Nugent score of 0–3, or Lactobacillus predominance determined by 16S rRNA gene amplification sequencing. Deviations from this norm were classified as dysbiosis, further categorized into bacterial vaginosis (BV) and intermediate BV. Data analysis utilized Revman 5.4, with effect sizes presented as Odds Ratios (OR) and 95% Confidence Intervals (CI).

Results

Out of 1081 articles, eight met the inclusion criteria. Utilizing fixed-effect models due to low heterogeneity, the analysis revealed a positive association between dysbiosis and endometriosis (OR = 1.17, 95% CI 0.81–1.70; I2 = 0%), but showed a slight negative association between normal vaginal microecology with endometriosis (OR = 0.90, 95% CI 0.55–1.46; I2 = 29%). However, the association was not significant. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses corroborated the stability of these associations.

Conclusion

A positive correlation exists between vaginal microecology dysbiosis and endometriosis, notably with intermediate BV. However, the mechanisms underpinning this relationship remain elusive, highlighting the need for further research to overcome limitations.

Trial registration

Registration number: CRD42023445163.
Long-lived central memory γδ T cells confer protection against murine cytomegalovirus reinfection
Authors: Yared Nathalie , Papadopoulou Maria , Barennes Pierre , Pham Hang-Phuong , Quiniou Valentin , Netzer Sonia , Kaminski Hanna , Burguet Laure , Demeste Amandine , Colas Pacôme , Mora-Charrot Lea , Rousseau Benoit , Izotte Julien , Zouine Atika , Gauthereau Xavier , Vermijlen David , Déchanet-Merville Julie , Capone Myriam
Published: July 2024

The involvement of γδ TCR-bearing lymphocytes in immunological memory has gained increasing interest due to their functional duality between adaptive and innate immunity. γδ T effector memory (TEM) and central memory (TCM) subsets have been identified, but their respective roles in memory responses are poorly understood. In the present study, we used subsequent mouse cytomegalovirus (MCMV) infections of αβ T cell deficient mice in order to analyze the memory potential of γδ T cells. As for CMV-specific αβ T cells, MCMV induced the accumulation of cytolytic, KLRG1+CX3CR1+ γδ TEM that principally localized in infected organ vasculature. Typifying T cell memory, γδ T cell expansion in organs and blood was higher after secondary viral challenge than after primary infection. Viral control upon MCMV reinfection was prevented when masking γδ T-cell receptor, and was associated with a preferential amplification of private and unfocused TCR δ chain repertoire composed of a combination of clonotypes expanded post-primary infection and, more unexpectedly, of novel expanded clonotypes. Finally, long-term-primed γδ TCM cells, but not γδ TEM cells, protected T cell-deficient hosts against MCMV-induced death upon adoptive transfer, probably through their ability to survive and to generate TEM in the recipient host. This better survival potential of TCM cells was confirmed by a detailed scRNASeq analysis of the two γδ T cell memory subsets which also revealed their similarity to classically adaptive αβ CD8 T cells. Overall, our study uncovered memory properties of long-lived TCM γδ T cells that confer protection in a chronic infection, highlighting the interest of this T cell subset in vaccination approaches.
Cytochrome oxidase requirements in Bordetella reveal insights into evolution towards life in the mammalian respiratory tract
Authors: McKay Liliana S. , Spandrio Alexa R. , Johnson Richard M. , Sobran M. Ashley , Marlatt Sara A. , Mote Katlyn B. , Dedloff Margaret R. , Nash Zachary M. , Julio Steven M. , Cotter Peggy A.
Published: July 2024

Little is known about oxygen utilization during infection by bacterial respiratory pathogens. The classical Bordetella species, including B. pertussis, the causal agent of human whooping cough, and B. bronchiseptica, which infects nearly all mammals, are obligate aerobes that use only oxygen as the terminal electron acceptor for electron transport-coupled oxidative phosphorylation. B. bronchiseptica, which occupies many niches, has eight distinct cytochrome oxidase-encoding loci, while B. pertussis, which evolved from a B. bronchiseptica-like ancestor but now survives exclusively in and between human respiratory tracts, has only three functional cytochrome oxidase-encoding loci: cydAB1, ctaCDFGE1, and cyoABCD1. To test the hypothesis that the three cytochrome oxidases encoded within the B. pertussis genome represent the minimum number and class of cytochrome oxidase required for respiratory infection, we compared B. bronchiseptica strains lacking one or more of the eight possible cytochrome oxidases in vitro and in vivo. No individual cytochrome oxidase was required for growth in ambient air, and all three of the cytochrome oxidases conserved in B. pertussis were sufficient for growth in ambient air and low oxygen. Using a high-dose, large-volume persistence model and a low-dose, small-volume establishment of infection model, we found that B. bronchiseptica producing only the three B. pertussis-conserved cytochrome oxidases was indistinguishable from the wild-type strain for infection. We also determined that CyoABCD1 is sufficient to cause the same level of bacterial burden in mice as the wild-type strain and is thus the primary cytochrome oxidase required for murine infection, and that CydAB1 and CtaCDFGE1 fulfill auxiliary roles or are important for aspects of infection we have not assessed, such as transmission. Our results shed light on the environment at the surface of the ciliated epithelium, respiration requirements for bacteria that colonize the respiratory tract, and the evolution of virulence in bacterial pathogens.
Protection against experimental cryptococcosis elicited by Cationic Adjuvant Formulation 01-adjuvanted subunit vaccines
Authors: Wang Ruiying , Oliveira Lorena V. N. , Hester Maureen M. , Carlson Diana , Christensen Dennis , Specht Charles A. , Levitz Stuart M.
Published: July 2024

The fungal infection, cryptococcosis, is responsible for >100,000 deaths annually. No licensed vaccines are available. We explored the efficacy and immune responses of subunit cryptococcal vaccines adjuvanted with Cationic Adjuvant Formulation 01 (CAF01). CAF01 promotes humoral and T helper (Th) 1 and Th17 immune responses and has been safely used in human vaccine trials. Four subcutaneous vaccines, each containing single recombinant Cryptococcus neoformans protein antigens, partially protected mice from experimental cryptococcosis. Protection increased, up to 100%, in mice that received bivalent and quadrivalent vaccine formulations. Vaccinated mice that received a pulmonary challenge with C. neoformans had an influx of leukocytes into the lung including robust numbers of polyfunctional CD4+ T cells which produced interferon gamma (IFNγ), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), and interleukin (IL)-17 upon ex vivo antigenic stimulation. Cytokine-producing lung CD8+ T cells were also found, albeit in lesser numbers. A significant, durable IFNγ response was observed in the lungs, spleen, and blood. Moreover, IFNγ secretion following ex vivo stimulation directly correlated with fungal control in the lungs. Thus, we have developed multivalent cryptococcal vaccines which protect mice from experimental cryptococcosis using an adjuvant which has been safely tested in humans. These preclinical studies suggest a path towards human cryptococcal vaccine trials.
A single gene mutation underpins metabolic adaptation and acquisition of filamentous competence in the emerging fungal pathogen Candida auris
Authors: Deng Yuchen , Xu Ming , Li Shuaihu , Bing Jian , Zheng Qiushi , Huang Guanghua , Liao Wanqing , Pan Weihua , Tao Li
Published: July 2024

Filamentous cell growth is a vital property of fungal pathogens. The mechanisms of filamentation in the emerging multidrug-resistant fungal pathogen Candida auris are poorly understood. Here, we show that exposure of C. auris to glycerol triggers a rod-like filamentation-competent (RL-FC) phenotype, which forms elongated filamentous cells after a prolonged culture period. Whole-genome sequencing analysis reveals that all RL-FC isolates harbor a mutation in the C2H2 zinc finger transcription factor-encoding gene GFC1 (Gfc1 variants). Deletion of GFC1 leads to an RL-FC phenotype similar to that observed in Gfc1 variants. We further demonstrate that GFC1 mutation causes enhanced fatty acid β-oxidation metabolism and thereby promotes RL-FC/filamentous growth. This regulation is achieved through a Multiple Carbon source Utilizer (Mcu1)-dependent mechanism. Interestingly, both the evolved RL-FC isolates and the gfc1Δ mutant exhibit an enhanced ability to colonize the skin. Our results reveal that glycerol-mediated GFC1 mutations are beneficial during C. auris skin colonization and infection.
Extraneural infection route restricts prion conformational variability and attenuates the impact of quaternary structure on infectivity
Authors: Chang Sheng Chun , Arifin Maria Immaculata , Tahir Waqas , McDonald Keegan John , Zeng Doris , Schatzl Hermann M. , Hannaoui Samia , Gilch Sabine
Published: July 2024

Prions can exist as different strains that consist of conformational variants of the misfolded, pathogenic prion protein isoform PrPSc. Defined by stably transmissible biological and biochemical properties, strains have been identified in a spectrum of prion diseases, including chronic wasting disease (CWD) of wild and farmed cervids. CWD is highly contagious and spreads via direct and indirect transmission involving extraneural sites of infection, peripheral replication and neuroinvasion of prions. Here, we investigated the impact of infection route on CWD prion conformational selection and propagation. We used gene-targeted mouse models expressing deer PrP for intracerebral or intraperitoneal inoculation with fractionated or unfractionated brain homogenates from white-tailed deer, harboring CWD strains Wisc-1 or 116AG. Upon intracerebral inoculation, Wisc-1 and 116AG-inoculated mice differed in conformational stability of PrPSc. In brains of mice infected intraperitoneally with either inoculum, PrPSc propagated with identical conformational stability and fewer PrPSc deposits in most brain regions than intracerebrally inoculated animals. For either inoculum, PrPSc conformational stability in brain and spinal cord was similar upon intracerebral infection but significantly higher in spinal cords of intraperitoneally infected animals. Inoculation with fractionated brain homogenates resulted in lower variance of survival times upon intraperitoneal compared to intracerebral infection. In summary, we demonstrate that extraneural infection mitigates the impact of PrPSc quaternary structure on infection and reduces conformational variability of PrPSc propagated in the brain. These findings provide new insights into the evolution of stable CWD strains in natural, extraneural transmissions.
Chinese consumers’ attitudes towards clothing that incorporate Chinese cultural elements: A mixed method study
Authors: Xi Yuan , Yip Jinchi
Published: July 2024

In the globalized fashion market, a growing number of fashion brands and designers are utilizing Chinese cultural elements as a branding strategy to create competitive differentiation and attract Chinese consumers. Nevertheless, Chinese consumers’ attitudes towards different styles of clothing that incorporate Chinese cultural elements remain uncertain. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate Chinese consumers’ attitudes towards clothing that incorporate Chinese cultural elements. The study also explored the factors that influence their attitudes. A mixed method approach was employed to survey 189 Chinese consumers aged 18–30. The survey encompassed attitude scales and open-ended questions. Paired samples t-tests and inductive coding were used in the data analysis. The study’s findings indicated that Chinese consumers illustrated a significantly positive attitude towards Chinese-style clothing incorporating Chinese cultural elements, compared to global-style clothing incorporating Chinese cultural elements. Moreover, five factors influence Chinese consumers’ attitudes, namely cultural experience with Chinese cultural elements, symbolism of Chinese cultural elements, nationalist sentiments, cultural aesthetics and innovation of clothing, and the harmony between the clothing style and Chinese cultural elements. Practical implications to fashion brands and fashion designers are discussed.
Editorial
Authors: Gómez-García Salvador , Puebla-Martínez Belén , Navarro-Sierra Nuria
Published: July 2024

This Special Issue delves into the nexus of pop politics and popular culture, focusing on the employment of cultural symbols and strategies in communication. The articles included discuss the evolution of politainment in the digital age, where social media platforms amplify political messages by blending entertainment with political discourse. The authors highlight concerns regarding the devaluation of political information and its impact on democratic quality. Furthermore, the issue examines how pop politics encourages civic engagement and political awareness, utilizing various mediums for collective action, while cautioning against the potential adverse effects on public discourse. Ultimately, this Special Issue provides multidisciplinary perspectives on the intersection of politics and entertainment, its implications for democracy, and the evolving landscape of political communication.
The Batman and the redemption of first responders: The culmination of a rhetoric of rescue during COVID-19, Trump and protest
Authors: Yergensen Brent
Published: July 2024

The timing of Matt Reeves’s The Batman (2022) situated the film as a symbol of and response to the social troubles that resulted from the political unrest in 2020 and 2021, presenting solution-driven rhetoric amidst the numerous public crises in American discourse and identity. Captured and represented in his opening prologue speech in juxtaposition to his rhetorical culmination speech, Batman’s orations mirror his own arc and the politically prescribed reawakening of confidence in political figures and institutions. Paralleling his addresses, the evolution of Batman’s excessive violence when he initially works under the identity of ‘Vengeance’, compared to his subsequent performance as a first responder at the end of the film, serves as a rhetoric of redemption for first responders. Multiple scenes focus on Batman’s learning to recognize humans’ need for compassion as he becomes a student of social progress. Working as a unifying symbol of a diverse leader, Gotham’s newly elected mayor, Bella Reál, simultaneously offers a vision for transitioning away from leaders associated with racist and sexist discourse. With Batman’s rhetorical culmination and transformation into an emergency rescuer, The Batman serves as unifying verbal and visual discourse in response to contemporary political unrest.
Choosing to be gay: Authentic outcomes, agency and identity in Life Is Strange1
Authors: Hodge Karl
Published: July 2024

Life is Strange is a modern classic of storytelling in games that allows players to make consequential choices at the level of action as well as at the level of narrative. But does it also allow players to play as their authentic selves, or does it constrain them within frameworks of ethics that are assumed by its authors? This study uses an approach that combines elements of ludology, the focus on games as systems that are altered by players through a mechanistic interface, and the application of structuralist narratology. The latter allows us to textually analyse Life is Strange as a case study of a progression game with emergence characteristics, in which mechanics are treated as functional units of narrative. In addition, we draw from a unique quantitative source. Every choice made by players of Life is Strange is recorded and available to see in the public domain. This allows us to compare the narrative structure encoded into the game at the level of action, with the choices players made at the level of narrative. The outcome shows that players subverted hegemonic expectations, within affordances created for them by the game developers, demonstrating an unexpected level of player agency.
Memetization of the president’s speeches to the nation in South Africa as popular rhetoric elements
Authors: Gil-Torres Alicia , Mall Bibi Ayesha , Muringa Tigere
Published: July 2024

The proliferation of political memes in recent years allows us to assume that they are a new tool of political communication and that social networks increase the possibilities for civil society to express opinions and intervene in the debate on matters of public interest. This article aims to examine the memes that have been disseminated on Twitter since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in South Africa in the wake of the president’s speeches to the nation to discover whether one can speak of a political rhetoric in memes and their argumentation. To this end, the research uses a qualitative-quantitative approach to classify the taxonomy of memes according to their content, combining the thematic classification of memes and the typology of images in digital discourse to discover the existence of the use of popular political rhetoric. The final sample comprises 351 memes, and the analysis shows that they used humour as a means of escape rather than as an effective way of sending political messages. Thus, the results reflect the existence of a resignification of popular culture that transcends memes as persuasive elements based on the inertia of popular rhetoric in contemporary political communication.
Gurasoen gorputz-morfologia eta konposizioaren eta seme-alaben jaiotza-tamainaren arteko asoziazioa Bilboaldeko familietan
Authors: Vaquero Salaberria Beñat , Rebato Ochoa Esther , Jelenkovic Moreno Aline
Published: July 2024

Umeen jaiotza-tamaina bai umezaroan (hazkuntza-aroan) bai helduaroan obesitatea pairatzeko arrisku-faktoreen artean dago. Era berean, umeen jaiotza-tamainan eragina dute gurasoen zenbait ezaugarri antropometrikok. Lan honen helburua da gurasoen morfologiak eta adipositateak seme-alaben jaiotza-pisuarekiko eta jaiotza-luzerarekiko duten erlazioa analizatzea, Bilboaldeko familiez osatutako lagin batean. Aztertutako lagina 391 amei eta 274 aitei dagokien bi datu-basetan oinarritzen da, non amen analisirako 404 seme eta 368 alabaren jaiotza-datuak jaso baitira, eta aiten analisian 280 seme eta 252 alabarenak. Haurren jaiotzaren ezaugarriekin loturiko aldagaiak dira jaiotza-pisua eta jaiotza-luzera, indize ponderala, haurdunaldi-adina eta jaiotza-ordena. Gurasoen ezaugarri antropometrikoak, berriz, luzera bertikalak, zabalerak, zirkunferentziak, larruazalpeko tolesturak, pisua, gorputz-masaren indizea, gerri-aldaka indizea, enborreko eta gorputz-adarretako larruazalpeko tolesturen arteko ratioa, larruazalpeko tolesturen batuketa eta antropometria-somatotipoaren osagaiak dira. Asoziazioen azterketarako, koaldagai ezberdinetara doitutako erregresio linealen analisiak erabili dira. Gurasoen zenbait ezaugarri antropometrikok, batez ere amen kasuan, asoziazio positiboa erakusten dute seme-alaben jaiotza-pisuarekin, eta hezur-substratua oinarritzat duten gurasoen ezaugarri antropometrikoek ere lotura positiboa erakusten dute haurren jaiotza-luzerarekin. Ez dirudi seme-alaben sexua, gurasoen adina, jaiotza-ordena zein haurdunaldi-adina asoziazio-kausa nagusiak direnik gurasoen ezaugarri antropometrikoen eta seme-alaben jaiotza-tamainaren artean, aztertutako laginean. Laburbilduz, ikerketa honetan behatutako asoziazioek gurasoen ezaugarri antropometriko batzuek seme-alaben jaiotza-tamainan eragina izatearen ideia indartzen dute, eta, beraz, osasun publiko ondorio garrantzitsuak izan ditzakete obesitatearen prebentzioan.
Matrize dezelularizatuak eta zelula amak ehun ingeniaritzan
Authors: Luzuriaga Gonzalez Jon , Ibarretxe Bilbao Gaskon , Aranguren Unai
Published: July 2024

Azken urteetan dezelularizatutako matrize estrazelular eta zelula amek interes handia piztu dute ehun-ingeniaritzaren arloan, ehun eta organoen birsorkuntzarako izan dezaketen erabilgarritasunagatik. Berrikuspen honen helburua, batetik, arlo honen nondik norakoan ezagutzea da, eta bestetik, gizakietan egin diren aplikazioak aztertzea. Ehunak edo organoak dezelularizatzeko, eta dezelularizatutako matrize estrazelularren “aldamio” edo “scaffold”-ak eskuratzeko teknika desberdinak daude: fisikioak, kimikoak, biologikoak, tekniken konbinaketak eta azken urteetan garatu diren teknika berriak. Dezelularizatutako matrize horiek, jatorrizko matrize estrazelularren osagaiak eta egitura kontserbatzen dituzte, zeinak beharrezkoak diren zelulen eta matrize estrazelularren arteko elkarrekintzetarako. Dezelularizatu ostean, matrize horiek birzelularizatu egin daitezke, bai zelula somatikoekin, bai zelula amekin, intereseko ehun edo organo espezifikoa eskuratzeko. Ehun-ingeniaritzaren arloan, azken urteetan aurrerapen garrantzitsuak egin dira, eta dezelularizatutako matrize estrazelularren aldamio mota ugari eratu dira ehun desberdinentzat, hala nola, azal-ehuna, hezur-ehuna, nerbio-ehuna edo bihotz-ehuna. Horrez gain, organo osoen dezelularizazioa ere lortu da, zeintzuk jatorrizko organoaren arkitektura eta osagaiak kontserbatzen dituzten, eta jarraian birzelularizatu egin daitezkeen. Oraindik gizakietan egindako aplikazioak mugatuak badira ere, etorkizunari begira ate ugari zabaldu ditzaken ikerkuntza arloa da hau.
Ura garbitzeko mintzen garapena
Authors: Veloso Fernández Antonio , Martinez Peio
Published: July 2024

Munduan zehar aurkitzen den arazo larrienetarikoa edateko uraren gabezia hazkorra da, kutsatzaile ezberdinek eraginda. Mintzen garapena premiazkoa da baldintza urtar ezberdinetan kutsatzaileen kudeaketa aurrera eramateko, garbiketa mekanismo ezberdinen arabera (ukatzea edo adsortzioa) material ezberdinak erabil daitezke, orokorrean polimeroak edo zeramikak izanik. Modu honetan, prozesatze metodo asko garatu dira material eta baldintzen arabera. Alde batetik, zeramikak zurrunak eta kimikoki geldoak izanik, beraien prozesatzea zein erabilera muturreko baldintzetan ematen dira. Beste aldetik, polimeroak disolbagarriak eta tenperaturarekin biguntzeko gaitasuna izanik, baldintza leunagoetan maneiatu behar dira. Lan honetan, ura garbitzeko erabiltzen diren mintzen ezaugarri orokorrak aurkezten dira, hau da, kutsatzaileak kentzeko erabiltzen diren mekanismo fisiko eta/edo kimikoak, mintz bat eratzeko prozesatze-teknikak eta sortzeko material desberdinen propietateak.
El nuevo permiso parental del estatuto de los trabajadores
Authors: Rodríguez Emma Rodríguez
Published: July 2024

A través del RD ley 5/2023, de 28 de junio, el legislador español transpone al ordenamiento interno el contenido de la Directiva (UE) 2019/1158, sobre conciliación y corresponsabilidad de las personas trabajadoras. Según el espíritu de la Directiva, todos los permisos en pro de la conciliación de la vida familiar y laboral deben facilitar la flexibilidad para la persona trabajadora y garantizar su ejercicio. Se refuerzan los derechos de conciliación como derechos individuales e intransferibles y se ahonda en la corresponsabilidad. En esta línea, se incorpora al Estatuto de los Trabajadores el nuevo permiso parental, a través del que se reconoce un permiso de ocho semanas a las personas responsables del cuidado de hijos o hijas hasta que estos alcancen la edad de ocho años. En este trabajo se analiza su régimen jurídico y los aspectos más controvertidos, a la vez que se plantean propuestas de futuro al respecto.
Bigarren Aukerako Ikastetxeak: zubiak baino gehiago
Authors: Rodriguez Poza Aintzane , Miguelena Torrado Joana , Callado Iza Iker
Published: July 2024

Hezkuntza funtsezko gakoa da nerabeen eta gazteen gizarte inklusioa bermatzeko, batez ere, egoitza-harrera babes-neurritik atera diren gazteek etorkizun arrakastatsua izan dezaten laguntzeko. Hala ere, kolektibo honek erronka handiei aurre egin behar die hezkuntza-ibilbideak arrakastaz egin ahal izateko. Artikulu honetan, Bigarren Aukerako Ikastetxeak aurkeztuko dira egoitza-harreratik atera diren gazteen eskola uzte goiztiarraren aterabide gisa, baita inklusiorako zubi ere. Metodologia kualitatibo bati erantzuten dion ikerketa bat diseinatu da. Zehazki, elkarrizketak erabili dira datuak biltzeko tresna gisa. Hauek egoitza-harrera babes-neurritik atera diren 22 gaztekin eraman ziren aurrera, baita Bigarren Aukerako Ikastetxeetako 15 profesionalekin ere. Emaitzek gazte hauen hezkuntza ibilbidea eta etorkizuneko inklusioa oztopatzen duten hainbat faktore daudela iradokitzen dute, hala nola: gazteen ezaugarriak, gizarte irudikapena, gazte hauek hezkuntzarekiko duten perspektiba edota parte hartzea. Hala ere, ikerketa honek kolektibo horren gizarte eta hezkuntza inklusioa erraztu dezakeen faktoreetako bat azpimarratzen du: Bigarren Aukerako Ikastetxeak.