bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
La revolución del perreo: Bad Bunny y la subversión de los roles de género en el videoclip “Yo perreo sola” (YHLQMDLG, 2020).
Authors: Martínez-González Johan , García-Ramos Francisco-José
Published: July 2024

El posicionamiento del reguetón como uno de los géneros más importantes en la escena musical mainstream ha provocado la inclusión de temáticas poco frecuentes en un estilo de música que en sus orígenes se caracterizaba por reforzar estereotipos masculinos a través del machismo, la hipersexualización y la virilidad al tiempo que la mujer era relegada a la cosificación y al sometimiento. Considerando un impulsor de este cambio a Bad Bunny, se pretende cuestionar cómo desarticula los valores masculinos hegemónicos y la homofobia del género en el videoclip Yo perreo sola (2020). Se pretende analizar si presenta una subversión de la heteronormatividad y si contribuye a una visión más fluida de la masculinidad y feminidad. Desde una perspectiva basada en la teoría queer y estudios LGBTIQ+ se realizará un análisis crítico del discurso de la canción y del texto audiovisual de su videoclip. Aunque se encontraron elementos contradictorios en el objeto de análisis, se concluye que la canción alienta a las mujeres a apropiarse de aquellos espacios en los que han sido censuradas, empoderando el uso de su autonomía en la pista de baile a través del perreo. Un tema y un videoclip que abordan temas invisibilizados en este género y que abren la puerta a una posible revolución del reguetón.
Asymptotic Scaling of Optimal Cost and Asymptotic Optimality of Base-Stock Policy in Several Multidimensional Inventory Systems
Authors: Bu Jinzhi , Gong Xiting , Chao Xiuli
Published: July 2024

Asymptotic Optimality of Simple Heuristic Policies for Multidimensional Inventory Systems

Stochastic inventory systems with multidimensional state spaces, such as lost-sales system with positive lead time and perishable inventory system, are challenging to manage because of the curse of dimensionality, and their optimal control policies are extremely complex. In “Asymptotic Scaling of Optimal Cost and Asymptotic Optimality of Base-Stock Policy in Several Multidimensional Inventory Systems,” Bu, Gong and Chao consider three classes of such systems in the regime of large unit penalty cost, and they establish the asymptotic optimality of (modified) simple base-stock policies as well as an explicit expression for the optimal cost rate in each of these systems. These results justify the applications of such policies in real-world applications, and they are achieved by constructing tight newsvendor upper and lower bounds on the systems’ costs and analyzing the asymptotic scaling of newsvendor costs with large unit penalty cost. This approach is expected to be useful in studying other multidimensional stochastic inventory systems.
Escala de alerta precoce na identificação de pacientes com risco de deterioração clínica
Authors: Sá Bruna Victória de Sousa , Aguiar Adriana Sousa Carvalho de , Rocha Elyrose Sousa Brito , Bezerra Sandra Marina Gonçalves , Almeida Paulo César de
Published: July 2024

Objetivo: avaliar pontuação da National Early Warning Score (NEWS) em relação ao tipo de desfecho e perfil dos pacientes da enfermaria clínica médica de um hospital em Teresina, Piauí, Brasil. Método: estudo quantitativo realizado num hospital público, em Teresina, com 150 prontuários de pacientes internados no setor clínica médica de fevereiro de 2022 a dezembro de 2022, a partir de registros demográficos, clínicos e valores da escala na admissão e desfecho. Resultados:  houve associação dos valores da escala com a faixa etária (p=0,029), tempo de internação (p=0,023) e tipo de desfecho (p < 0,001). Alto risco clínico prevaleceu entre pacientes do sexo masculino (13%), na faixa etária de 60 a 94 anos (13%), com permanência de 21 a 57 dias (19,2%) e óbito como desfecho (100%). Conclusão: implementação da referida escala evidenciou ser fundamental para prever agravos clínicos e melhorar qualidade da assistência.
Empoderamento estrutural: potencializando as competências dos enfermeiros de um hospital de alta complexidade
Authors: Lopes Larissa Padoin , Dias Jhenicy Rubira , Rocha Aline Franco da , Leachi Helenize Ferreira Lima , Souza Vitória Vitória Delma Barbosa de , Ribeiro Renata Perfeito
Published: July 2024

Objetivo: analisar o empoderamento estrutural de enfermeiros em um hospital de alta complexidade. Métodos: estudo quantitativo, analítico e transversal, realizado com 93 enfermeiros, utilizando um questionário sociodemográfico e ocupacional e o Questionário de Condições de Eficácia no Trabalho II. Os dados foram coletados entre fevereiro e março de 2023. A análise dos dados deu-se por meio de estatística descritiva, teste de Kolgomorov-Smirnov, teste do qui-quadrado e regressão de Poisson. Resultados: os enfermeiros apresentaram nível moderado de empoderamento estrutural, com média de 20,67 (p<0,000). O componente mais pontuado foi a oportunidade (4,22 dp±0,80). Não foram encontradas diferenças significativas nos níveis de empoderamento estrutural relacionadas às unidades de trabalho (p-Valor 0,381), vínculo empregatício (p-Valor 0,352) e grau de instrução (p-Valor 0,839). O modelo de regressão de Poisson indica que tanto pode haver altos ou baixos níveis de empoderamento a depender do setor. Conclusão: os enfermeiros demonstraram possuir níveis moderados de empoderamento estrutural.
Analysis of Power Grid User Behavior Based on Data Mining Algorithms – System Design and Implementation
Authors: Wang Yan , Xu Jiawei , Chen Xiaowen , Huang Ying
Published: July 2024

A data mining based power grid user behavior analysis system has been designed to address the issues of insufficient stability and accuracy in existing power grid user behavior analysis systems. Design the overall structure of the power grid user behavior analysis system; In terms of system hardware design, select a core controller, build and install a server as the foundation for system information transmission and logical operation; Based on ZigBee wireless communication technology, a ZigBee wireless communication protocol stack and communication expansion board were designed; In terms of system software design, Python is used to crawl user behavior data in the system data collection layer, and Python language is used to maintain the crawling program; Use the K-means algorithm to perform secondary mining and clustering on power grid user behavior data, obtain the analysis results of power grid user behavior, and transmit them to the system visualization display layer. The weight and Rand coefficient of data analysis were used as indicators to test the application effect of the method in this paper. The experimental results showed that the system can stably and accurately analyze the behavior of power grid users, and has good application effect. This research achievement has important reference significance for the research in the field of power grid user behavior analysis in the world scientific community.
The spectrum of an operator associated with G 2-instantons with 1-dimensional singularities and Hermitian Yang–Mills connections with isolated singularities
Authors: Wang Yuanqi
Published: July 2024

abstract: This is the first step in an attempt at a deformation theory for $G_{2}$-instantons with $1$-dimensional conic singularities. Under a set of model data, the linearization yields a Dirac operator $P$ on a certain bundle over $\mathbb{S}^{5}$, called the \textit{link operator}. As a dimension reduction, the link operator also arises from Hermitian Yang--Mills connections with isolated conic singularities on a Calabi--Yau $3$-fold. Using the quaternion structure in the Sasakian geometry of $\mathbb{S}^{5}$, we describe the set of all eigenvalues of $P$, denoted by $\Spec P$. We show that $\Spec P$ consists of finitely many integers induced by certain sheaf cohomologies on $\mathbb{P}^{2}$, and infinitely many real numbers induced by the spectrum of the rough Laplacian on the pullback endomorphism bundle over $\mathbb{S}^{5}$. The multiplicities and the form of an eigensection can be described fairly explicitly. In particular, there is a relation between the spectrum on $\mathbb{S}^{5}$ to certain sheaf cohomologies on~$\mathbb{P}^{2}$. Moreover, on a Calabi--Yau $3$-fold, the index of the linearized operator for admissible singular Hermitian Yang--Mills connections is also calculated, in terms of these sheaf cohomologies. Using the representation theory of $\SU(3)$ and the subgroup $S[U(1)\times U(2)]$, we show an example in which $\Spec P$ and the multiplicities can be completely determined.
“Capacity for Labor,” Work, and Disability in the Early Republic, 1791–1833
Authors: Roberts Meg E.
Published: July 2024

Abstract: In the northeastern cities of the early United States, healthy, physically versatile workers were few and far between. Even as employers and welfare administrators experimented with the emerging bureaucratic categories “disabled” and “able-bodied” to delineate workers and non-workers, the unpredictability and fluidity of the population’s health resisted simple classification. This article argues that, between the 1790s and 1830s, the architects of the early national political economy were keenly aware of workers’ varied capacity for labor. Early advocates even argued that manufacturing work would prove more accessible to groups they believed had not been “usefully” employed in the colonial economy—namely, women, children, the elderly, and those with illnesses and impairments. When this did not prove to be the case, welfare administrators retained a commitment to flexible labor in their organization of poor-relief structures and institutions. Bringing disability into the narrative complicates scholars’ long-held assumptions about the rationale directing early manufacturing, poor relief, and institutional practices. The early republican period is crucial both to the emergence of disability as an (albeit unstable) social category and the formation of the antebellum American labor force and welfare system.
The Quotidian State: Nightly Watches and Police Practice in the Early Republic
Authors: Breault Nicole
Published: July 2024

Abstract: This article encourages scholars to consider how intensely local, longstanding, legal, and customary institutions illuminate lesser-known aspects of state building in early America. Focused on continuities and changes to Boston’s nightly watch—a form of early policing tasked with walking the streets monitoring for order and disorder—it advocates for studies of the quotidian state: the commonplace actions and activities performed day in and day out over time to support the development of law and governance at the local level.
Displays of Parasocial Interaction in K-Pop: A Content Analysis of YouTube Comments on BTS’s Music Videos
Authors: Flinchum Emily , Roy Enakshi , Arif Rauf
Published: July 2024

abstract: This study explores the prevalence of parasocial interaction between the South Korean band BTS and their fans. Using content analysis, 1,114 fan comments on BTS’s YouTube videos were examined. Approximately two-thirds of analyzed comments displayed at least one of the four indicators of parasocial interaction explored: authenticity, affability, social attraction, and fandom. Furthermore, there was a significant difference between how parasocial interaction (PSI) indicators appeared in the music videos compared to the personality-driven nonmusic videos. The music videos had comments that displayed affability and fandom more frequently, while the personality-driven nonmusic videos displayed higher amounts of social attraction. Social attraction was also the most frequently displayed PSI indicator, implying that fans consuming content through YouTube are more likely to focus on the visual appeal of the content. This research fosters a deeper understanding of the nature of parasocial interaction between fans and celebrities in the context of online media.
Korean Ethnic Newspapers at a Crossroads
Authors: Nahm Yoonho
Published: July 2024

abstract: Ethnic and local news media face critical challenges due to the loss of traditional subscribers and relatively fewer resources in comparison with national and global news media companies. Responding to the changing news media market and environment, this article deals with the current challenges of ethnic news media and projects some possible future plans.
" Let me look again ": The Moral Philosophy and Literature Debate at 40
Authors: Murphy Ruth
Published: July 2024

Abstract: This article explores the relationship between ethics and literature, particularly as it has been conceived in academic debates since the early 1980s. It offers a reconciliation of the dichotomy between literature and moral philosophy through the concept of bifocality : writing that responds to the moral demands of a lived reality in both a philosophical and literary way. I suggest that bifocal writing is often found in works of testimony. Primo Levi's 1986 work The Drowned and the Saved , a collection of essays on the significance of the Holocaust, is then presented as an arch example.
Feeling Moved: Upward Mobility Stories in Socialism
Authors: Szcześniak Magda
Published: July 2024

Abstract: This article offers a theorization of socialist upward mobility stories, a heterogenous genre that aimed to capture the experience of class advancement in state socialism, on the example of the Polish People's Republic. Socialist upward mobility stories developed over time in response to the evolving class politics of the state and transforming class relations, and influenced the ways in which class was thought and lived. The genre was characterized by four recurring motifs: the collective character of socialist upward mobility, the state's role as benefactor, the diffusion of upward mobility, and a heightened emotionality.
The Work of Interpretation: Critique and the Review Form, 1946–1967
Authors: Marian Jessica , Patsoura Elliot , Hughes Joe
Published: July 2024

Abstract: This article examines a series of pivotal moments in the history of the postwar French journal Critique , tracing the development, refinement, and reassertion of the journal's singular style of critical practice. We present the journal's founding documents and consider editor Georges Bataille's identification of Maurice Blanchot as the guiding model for the journal. Then we examine two defining texts in the review's development: Alexandre Kojève's "Hegel, Marx and Christianity" (1946) and Alain Badiou's "The (Re)commencement of Dialectical Materialism" (1967). Kojève's celebrated article crystallised the ideals of the journal's programme; Badiou's article meanwhile tested those ideals, precipitating a minor editorial crisis.
Metaphorical Figures for Moral Complexity
Authors: Caracciolo Marco
Published: July 2024

Abstract: If literary narrative as a practice is well suited to capture morally complex situations, that is in large part due to the work of literary (that is, narrative and stylistic) form . This article examines the specific contribution that metaphorical language makes to the literary negotiation of moral complexity. The discussion is positioned vis-à-vis debates on the specific forms of moral knowledge that literature can provide, which I distinguish from both propositional meanings and the dilemmas entertained by analytic philosophers (for instance, the trolley problem). Instead, I draw on metaphor theory to suggest that metaphorical language can enrich the moral resonance of literature by deepening (and complicating) readers' engagement with fictional characters and the situations in which they are embedded. These metaphorical figures probe the experience captured by Cora Diamond under the rubric of the "difficulty of reality." This idea is illustrated through a close reading of Lauren Groff's short story "Flower Hunters," which skillfully orchestrates metaphorical language so as to encapsulate the protagonist's existential and moral impasse in times of ecological crisis.
Random phase plate designed by the genetic algorithm for decoherence in energy homogenization units of a photolithography illumination system
Authors: Liu Jiahong , Zhang Fang , Zhang Pei , Li Sikun , Huang Huijie
Published: July 2024

The microlens array (MLA) is used in the flexible pupil shaping module
of lithography illumination system for energy balance. However, the
coherence of the light source can lead to interference patterns. Most
of the decoherence methods are restricted for the pulse laser and the
scanning exposure application. To solve this issue, a specific random
phase plate (RPP) is designed to eliminate the interference patterns
caused by the coherence of the light source. The model of partially
coherent light propagation in the MLAs homogeneous system is
established based on the mutual intensity theory, and the genetic
algorithm is introduced to design a high-performance RPP. The
corresponding measurement device is constructed, and the intensity of
the image plane light field is measured. Experiment results indicate
that the intensity integral non-uniformity is 32.14% in the x-direction and 66.04% in the y-direction without the RPP, and the
intensity integral non-uniformity is 22.95% in the x-direction and 19.18% in the y-direction with the RPP, which
verifies the feasibility of the proposed method.
Performance of a reference-free wavefront sensor based on the Talbot effect under Gaussian illumination
Authors: Kotov Myhailo , Goloborodko Andrii
Published: July 2024

A reference-free wavefront reconstruction technique based on the Talbot sensor under
Gaussian beam illumination is discussed in the paper. Since pit images
are formed in several sequential planes due to the Talbot effect, it
allows us to reconstruct the wavefront on the basis of two object
self-images in nearby planes without any reference. Simulation results
of the reference-free reconstruction of a defocus aberration of
optical waves have been compared with the classical
Talbot-sensor-based approaches. Additionally, the reconstruction error
from the self-image of the gratings and the proposed reconstruction
procedure that allows us to decrease wavefront estimation error
are analyzed.
Intertwined Fano resonances in sub-wavelength metallic gratings: omnidirectional and wideband optical transmission
Authors: Langevin Denis , Jaeck Julien , Haidar Riad , Bouchon Patrick
Published: July 2024

Metallic gratings can be used as infrared filters, but are limited by their narrow bandwidth due to metallic losses.
Here, we propose a metallic groove-slit-groove (GSG) structure that exhibits an angularly independent extraordinary optical transmission of over 70% with a full spectral width at half maximum of 2 µm in the longwave infrared range. Each groove interferes with the central slit following a Fano profile, as confirmed by a pole study in the complex frequency plane. In addition, the two Fano profiles mirror each other, so that their association gives rise to a broadband transmission flanked by two zeros, improving the rejection rate. These results are extended to a two-dimensional GSG structure exhibiting unpolarized transmission of over 70%, for angles up to 50°.
Super-Resolution Microscopy Based on the Inherent Fluctuations of Dye Molecules
Authors: Krupinski-Ptaszek Alexander , Makowski Adrian , Mielnicka Aleksandra , Pawlowska Monika , Tenne Ron , Lapkiewicz Radek
Published: July 2024

Fluorescence microscopy is a critical tool across various disciplines, from materials science to biomedical research, yet it is limited by the diffraction limit of resolution. Advanced super-resolution techniques such as localization microscopy and stimulated-emission-depletion microscopy often demand considerable resources. These methods depend heavily on elaborate sample-staining, complex optical systems, or prolonged acquisition periods, and their application in 3D and multicolor imaging presents significant experimental challenges. In the current work, we provide a complete demonstration of a widely accessible super-resolution imaging approach capable of 3D and multicolor imaging. We replace the confocal pinhole with an array of single-photon avalanche diodes and use the microsecond-scale fluctuations of dye molecules as a contrast mechanism. This contrast is transformed into a super-resolved image using a robust and deterministic algorithm. Our technique utilizes natural fluctuations inherent to organic dyes, thereby it does not require engineering of the blinking statistics. Our robust, versatile super-resolution method opens the way to next-generation multimodal imaging and facilitates on-demand super-resolution within a confocal architecture.
“I always know she cannot betray me.” Disclosure of abortion and methods of abortion used in informal settlements in Nairobi, Kenya
Authors: Ouedraogo Ramatou , Wanjiru Shelmith , Zan Moussa L. , Rossier Clementine , Owolabi Onikepe , Athero Sherine , Oduor Clement , Bangha Martin ,   the N-MAS team
Published: July 2024

Despite abortion being stigmatized and legally restricted in Kenya, women still disclose their abortions within their network. Evidence has shown how stigma can influence and regulate individual abortion disclosure decisions and behaviors. This paper seeks to understand why and how women make the decisions to disclose their abortion and the associated methods used. The data are from a qualitative formative study and a respondent-driven sampling survey conducted between 2020 and 2021 in two informal settlements in Nairobi, Kenya. The data were analyzed using a descriptive analysis approach for the quantitative data, and thematic analysis for the qualitative data. Our findings reveal that information sharing about abortion is enclosed in a social dynamic of secrecy. This dynamic contributes to making abortion a secret that respondents decided to share with confidants in 81% of the abortion cases. These confidants include intimate relationships such as trusted friends (62%), followed by female relatives. Information was shared in many cases either to get support (i.e. method to use), or because participants had close ties with the confidants. Regarding the methods used, unidentified pills were the most used regardless of the confidant; followed by traditional methods especially among those who sought help with their mothers/aunts/grandmothers (33%), while Medical Abortion and Manual Vacuum Aspiration were rarely used, mostly by those who confided in friends or sisters/cousins. Our findings show that the disclosure of abortion is a complex process embedded in existing codes regarding the circulation of information on sensitive issues and “help” seeking. Our findings show that the need for information on safe abortion and lack of financial resources frequently empowers them to overcome the fear of stigma and disclose their abortion. However, this often resulted in use of unsafe procedures. The findings suggest the need for strengthening the circulation of information on safe methods within communities, using community champions and intermediaries to increase the likelihood of women being directed through safe methods to enhance their use.
Probing sustained attention and fatigue across the lifespan
Authors: Hanzal Simon , Learmonth Gemma , Thut Gregor , Harvey Monika
Published: July 2024

Trait fatigues reflects tiredness that persists throughout a prolonged period, whereas state fatigue is a short-term reaction to intense or prolonged effort. We investigated the impact of sustained attention (using the SART) on both trait and state fatigue levels in the general population. An online version of the SART was undertaken by 115 participants, stratified across the whole adult lifespan. While pre-task trait fatigue was a strong indicator of the initial state fatigue levels, undergoing the task itself induced an increase in reported subjective state fatigue, and an accompanying reduction in subjective energy rating. Consistent with this finding, greater subjective state fatigue levels were associated with reduced accuracy. In addition, age was the best predictor of inter-participant accuracy (the older the participants, the greater the accuracy), and learning (i.e., task duration reducing reaction times). Moreover, a ceiling effect occurred where participants with higher trait fatigue did not experience greater state fatigue changes relative to those with low trait scores. In summary, we found improved accuracy in older adults, as well as a tight coupling between state fatigue and SART performance decline (in an online environment). The findings warrant further investigation into fatigue as a dynamic, task-dependent state and into SART performance as an objective measure and inducer of fatigue.
Rancid rumors or Native wisdom: Evaluating the efficacy of animal fats as insect repellents attributed to historic-period Native Americans
Authors: Esmaeili Delaram , Salas Keyla R. , Luker Hailey A. , Mitra Soumi , Galvan Claudia J. , Holguin F. Omar , Whyms Sophie , Hansen Immo A. , Costa August G.
Published: July 2024

Little is known about Native American adaptations to blood-sucking arthropods prior to and following European contact. Multiple accounts starting in the 16thcentury suggest that rancid animal grease was employed by Gulf Coast indigenes as a mosquito repellent. Although many Native American ethnobotanical remedies for biting insects have been recorded, the use of animal products for this purpose is not well documented. Moreover, few traditional Native American mosquito repellents have been examined using controlled laboratory methods for repellency testing. In this study, we tested the repellent efficacy of fats derived from alligator, bear, cod, and shark that were aged to various stages of rancidity. Using yellow fever mosquitoes, (Aedes aegypti), we performed an arm-in-cage assay to measure the complete protection times resulted from these fats, when applied to human skin. We used a Y-tube olfactometer assay to evaluate long-distance repellency and tested tick-repellency in a crawling assay. Our results suggest that rancid animal fats from cod, bear, and alligator are potent albeit short-lived mosquito repellents. We found that both rancid and fresh fats do not repel ticks. Our findings show the validity of traditional ethnozoological knowledge of Native American people and support aspects of the ethnohistorical record.
The evaluation of the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12) reliability generalization: A meta-analysis
Authors: Wojujutari Ajele Kenni , Idemudia Erhabor Sunday , Ugwu Lawrence Ejike
Published: July 2024

Background

The General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12) is widely used for detecting psychiatric disorders, but its reliability across different populations remains to be determined.

Objective

This meta-analysis aims to evaluate the reliability of GHQ-12 across varied cultural and demographic settings.

Method

This meta-analysis evaluates the reliability of General Health Questionnaire [GHQ-12]’ across diverse populations, employing a systematic search strategy and rigorous inclusion criteria. This meta-analysis evaluates the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12) using a pre-registered protocol (CRD42023488436) to ensure unbiased results. Data from 20 studies published between 2016–2023 were analysed using a random-effects model, with quality assessment guided by COSMIN Risk of Bias and QUADAS-2. This study enhances our understanding of GHQ-12’s psychometric properties.

Results

For the GHQ-12 subscales, Cronbach’s alpha coefficients were 0.72 (90% CI [0.68, 0.75]) for anxiety and depression, 0.82 (90% CI [0.79, 0.86]) for social dysfunction, and 0.72 (90% CI [0.68, 0.76]) for loss of confidence. However, the analysis showed substantial heterogeneity (I2 = 90.04%), with significant variability in reliability estimates across different studies. The overall Cronbach’s alpha was 0.84 (95% Cl [0.810, 0.873]) with SE = 0.016 (90% CI [0.68, 0.82], p < .05), indicating moderate to high internal consistency. Quantifying heterogeneity revealed a substantial level (se = 0.0016, I2 = 96.7%), signifying considerable variability in the reliability estimate among the studies. Results further show Cronbach’s alpha coefficients range from 0.82 to 0.85 (95% Cl [0.77, 0.86 to 0.81, 0.90]) for the GHQ 12 items.

Conclusion

While reaffirming the GHQ-12’s utility in mental health assessment, our findings urge a more cautious and context-aware application of the questionnaire. The substantial heterogeneity and variability in reliability scores indicate a need for further research. Future studies should explore the reasons behind this variability, focusing on cultural, socio-economic, and methodological factors that might influence the GHQ-12’s reliability. This critical analysis underscores the need for a deeper understanding of the GHQ-12’s applicability and the importance of tailoring mental health assessment tools to specific population characteristics.
A PLA2 deletion mutant using CRISPR/Cas9 coupled to RNASeq reveals insect immune genes associated with eicosanoid signaling
Authors: Vatanparast Mohammad , Esmaeily Mojtaba , Stanley David , Kim Yonggyun
Published: July 2024

Eicosanoids mediate insect immune responses and synthesized by the catalytic activity of phospholipase A2 (PLA2). A uniquely encoded secretory PLA2 (sPLA2) is associated with immune responses of a lepidopteran insect, Spodoptera exigua. Its deletion mutant was generated using a CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing technology. Both wild and mutant lines were then immune-challenged, and the resulting transcripts were compared with their naïve transcripts by RNASeq using the Illumina-HiSeq platform. In total, 12,878 unigenes were further analyzed by differentially expressed gene tools. Over 69% of the expressed genes in S. exigua larvae are modulated in their expression levels by eicosanoids, recorded from CRISPR/Cas9 mutagenesis against an eicosanoid-synthetic gene, Se-sPLA2. Further, about 36% of the immune-associated genes are controlled by the eicosanoids in S. exigua. Indeed, the deletion mutant suffered significant immunosuppression in both cellular and humoral responses in response to bacterial challenge as well as severely reduced developmental and reproductive potentials.
Associations between the neighbourhood food environment and food and drink purchasing in England during lockdown: A repeated cross-sectional analysis
Authors: Kalbus Alexandra Irene , Cornelsen Laura , Ballatore Andrea , Cummins Steven
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Evidence for the effect of neighbourhood food environment (NFE) exposures on diet in the UK is mixed, potentially due to exposure misclassification. This study used the first national COVID-19 lockdown in England as an opportunity to isolate the independent effects of the NFE exposure on food and drink purchasing, and assessed whether these varied by region.

Methods

Transaction-level purchasing data for food and drink items for at-home (1,221 households) and out-of-home consumption (171 individuals) were available from the GB Kantar Fast Moving Consumer Goods Panel for London and the North of England. The study period included 23rd March to 10th May 2020 (‘lockdown’), and the same period in 2019 for comparison. NFE exposures included food outlet density and proximity, and NFE composition within a 1 km network buffer around the home. Associations were estimated for both years separately, adjusted for individual and household characteristics, population density and area deprivation. Interaction terms between region and exposures were explored.

Results

There were no consistent patterns of association between NFE exposures and food and drink purchasing in either time period. In 2019, there was some evidence for a 1.4% decrease in energy purchased from ultra-processed foods for each additional 500 m in the distance to the nearest OOH outlet (IR 0.986, 95% CI 0.977 to 0.995, p = 0.020). In 2020, there was some evidence for a 1.8% reduction in total take-home energy for each additional chain supermarket per km2 in the neighbourhood (IR 0.982, 95% CI 0.969, 0.995, p = 0.045). Region-specific effects were observed in 2019 only.

Discussion

Findings suggest that the differences in exposure to the NFE may not explain differences in the patterns or healthiness of grocery purchasing. Observed pre-pandemic region-specific effects allude to the importance of geographical context when designing research and policy. Future research may assess associations for those who relied on their NFE during lockdown.
Endophytic and epiphytic metabarcoding reveals fungal communities on cashew phyllosphere in Kenya
Authors: Mukhebi Dennis Wamalabe , Musangi Colletah Rhoda , Isoe Everlyne Moraa , Neondo Johnstone Omukhulu , Mbinda Wilton Mwema
Published: July 2024

Plants intimately coexist with diverse taxonomically structured microbial communities that influence host health and productivity. The coexistence of plant microbes in the phyllosphere benefits biodiversity maintenance, ecosystem function, and community stability. However, differences in community composition and network structures of phyllosphere epiphytic and endophytic fungi are widely unknown. Using Illumina Miseq sequencing of internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and 28S rRNA gene amplicons, we characterised the epiphytic and endophytic fungal communities associated with cashew phyllosphere (leaf, flower and fruit) from Kwale, Kilifi and Lamu counties in Kenya. The ITS and 28S rRNA gene sequences were clustered into 267 and 108 operational taxonomic units (OTUs) at 97% sequence similarity for both the epiphytes and endophytes. Phylum Ascomycota was abundant followed by Basidiomycota, while class Saccharomycetes was most dominant followed by Dothideomycetes. The major non-ascomycete fungi were associated only with class Tremellales. The fungal communities detected had notable ecological functions as saprotrophs and pathotrophs in class Saccharomyectes and Dothideomycetes. The community composition of epiphytic and endophytic fungi significantly differed between the phyllosphere organs which was statistically confirmed by the Analysis of Similarity test (ANOSIM Statistic R: 0.3273, for 28S rRNA gene and ANOSIM Statistic R: 0.3034 for ITS). The network analysis revealed that epiphytic and endophytic structures were more specialized, modular and had less connectance. Our results comprehensively describe the phyllosphere cashew-associated fungal community and serve as a foundation for understanding the host-specific microbial community structures among cashew trees.
Additional organic and bacterium fertilizer input regulated soybean root architecture and dry matter distribution for a sustainable yield in the semi-arid Region of China
Authors: Liu Yu , Liu Chuhua , Wei Lichao , Zhang Xudong , Liu Qinhui , Bai Jiling , Wang Xiaolin , Zhang Suiqi
Published: July 2024

In the dryland area of the Loess Plateau in northwest China, long-term excessive fertilization has led to soil compaction and nutrient loss, which in turn limits crop yield and soil productivity. To address this issue, we conducted experiments using environmentally friendly organic fertilizer and bacterium fertilizer. Our goal was to investigate the effects of additional organic and bacterium fertilizer inputs on soil water migration, crop root architecture, and yield formation. We implemented six different fertilizer strategies, namely: Nm (mulching, N 30 kg/ha), NPK1m (mulching, N 60 kg/ha; P 30 kg/ha; K 30 kg/ha), NPK2m (mulching, N 90 kg/ha; P 45 kg/ha; K 30 kg/ha), NPKOm (mulching, N 90 kg/ha; P 45 kg/ha; K 30 kg/ha; organic fertilizer 2 t/ha), NPKBm (mulching, N 60 kg/ha; P 30 kg/ha; K 30 kg/ha; bacterium fertilizer 10 kg/ha), and N (N 30 kg/ha; no mulching). The results revealed that the addition of bacterium fertilizer (NPKBm) had a positive impact on soybean root system development. Compared with the other treatments, it significantly increased the total root length, total root surface area, and total root length density by 25.96% ~ 94.89%, -19.63% ~ 36.28%, and 9.36% ~ 28.84%, respectively. Furthermore, NPKBm enhanced soil water consumption. In 2018, water storage during the flowering and podding periods decreased by 12.63% and 19.65%, respectively, while water consumption increased by 0.97% compared to Nm. In 2019, the flowering and harvest periods decreased by 23.49% and 11.51%, respectively, while water consumption increased by 0.65%. Ultimately, NPKBm achieved high grain yield and significantly increased water use efficiency (WUE), surpassing other treatments by 76.79% ~ 78.97% and 71.22% ~ 73.76%, respectively. Subsequently, NPK1m also exhibited significant increases in yield and WUE, with improvements of 35.58% ~ 39.27% and 35.26% ~ 38.16%, respectively. The use of bacterium fertilizer has a profound impact on soybean root architecture, leading to stable and sustainable grain yield production.
Unveiling gender inequality in the US: Testing validity of a state-level measure of gender inequality and its relationship with feminist online collective action on Twitter
Authors: Salvador Casara Bruno Gabriel , Lucarini Alice , Knowles Eric D. , Suitner Caterina
Published: July 2024

The Gender Inequality Index is a country-level measure of gender inequality based on women’s levels of reproductive health, social and political empowerment, and labor-market representation. In two studies, we tested the validity of the GII-S, a state-level measure of gender inequality in the USA. In Study 1, the GII-S was associated with objective and subjective measures of wellness among women, including life satisfaction, financial well-being, and perceptions of safety. GII-S was not associated with the Gini coefficient, a well-established measure of economic inequality, suggesting that gender and economic disparities represent distinct aspects of social inequality. Study 2 tested the link between GII-S scores and collective action—specifically, participation in the #MeToo movement promoting awareness of sexual harassment and violence against women. Analysis of geo-localized messages on the Twitter social media platform reveals that higher GII-S scores were associated with fewer tweets containing the #MeToo hashtag. Moreover, GII-S was associated with state-level political orientation: the more conservative a state, the higher its level of gender inequality. Results are discussed in terms of possible socio-cognitive processes underpinning the association between gender inequality and sensitivity to violence against women.
Anti-inflammatory effects and beneficial effects of the feed additive Urtica cannabina L. in zebrafish
Authors: Liu Wuyun , Yu Huarong , Gurbazar D. , Rinchindorj D. , Kang Wei , Qi Chelimuge , Chen Hongsong , Chang Xu , You Huan , Han Yongmei , Li Zhigang , R. G. Ahmed , Dong Wu
Published: July 2024

Urtica cannabina L. (UL) has been used clinically for centuries because of its anti-inflammatory properties. This study aimed to investigate the underlying mechanisms and anti-inflammatory effects of different UL concentrations in zebrafish. To elucidate UL’s anti-inflammatory properties, two inflammation zebrafish models were designed 1) by severing the zebrafish’s caudal fin to assess the repairing effect of UL on the tail inflammation, and 2) by inducing lipopolysaccharides (LPS)-mediated intestinal inflammation to assess the protective and reparative effects of UL on intestinal inflammation at the histological and genetic levels. Furthermore, the effect of UL on the LPS-induced intestinal flora changes was also assessed. After caudal fin resection, a scar formed on the tail of the zebrafish, and the area of the caudal fin increased by 1.30 times as much as that of the control group (P < 0.01). Moreover, this tail scar was alleviated after 10 mg/g UL supplementation but not after 30 mg/g UL dose. LPS decreased the feed intake and body weight of the zebrafish; however, these effects were reversed after 10 and 30 mg/g doses of UL. In addition, the LPS treatment also reduced the intestinal goblet cells by 49% in the zebrafish when compared with the control, which was significantly restored after 10 and 30 mg/g UL treatments. At the genetics level, the expression of the pro-inflammatory cytokine genes (TNF-α, IL6, and IL8) showed that 10 and 30 mg/g UL doses could rescue LPS-induced expression. The gut microbiota analysis revealed changes in the abundance of four major bacterial phyla in the 10 and 30 mg/g UL-treated groups, with an increased probiotic Bacteroidota and decreased pathogenic bacteria. These results indicate that UL strongly inhibits inflammation caused by caudal fin removal and LPS-induced inflammatory changes in the zebrafish intensity, suggesting that UL is a feed additive that could be developed to improve resistance to inflammation in livestock.
Eticista digital
Authors: Rockembach Moises , Geerts David
Published: July 2024

A ética digital constitui-se em um função emergente nas organizações e requer a atenção de investigadores, decisores políticos, bem como profissionais da informação. Nesse sentido, o estudo aqui apresentado busca fornecer uma análise crítica das publicações sobre ética digital nos últimos 15 anos, além de pesquisa documental, com o objetivo de identificar questões relevantes e áreas onde a investigação e o desenvolvimento de práticas éticas são necessárias. O estudo procura contribuir para a construção de abordagens éticas para as tecnologias digitais, uma vez que as mudanças tecnológicas continuam a ter um impacto cada vez mais significativo em nossas vidas.
Formação da Literatura Brasileira numa outra chave
Authors: Brito Matheus de
Published: July 2024

Polêmicas geralmente oferecem pontos de acesso úteis à compreensão da divergências num determinado campo. Parece-nos assim aquela que se dá à volta do “Barroco”, sequestrado, na visão de Haroldo Campos, da história literária de Antonio Candido. Pese que Alcir Pécora, alguns anos atrás na ocasião da reedição de O Sequestro do Barroco, tenha assinalado tal polêmica como “datada”, a raiz do problema continua viva e operante, exercendo forte influência no ensino e na pesquisa literária realizados hoje no Brasil, a despeito da emergência de novos modelos teórico-historiográficos. Nesta comunicação, pretendemos revisitar o núcleo dessa polêmica desde uma perspectiva estritamente teórica. Não estão em jogo as flutuações do cânone, a adequação da obra de Gregório de Matos a um interesse de época ou quaisquer questões de valor. Na primeira parte, trataremos de expor a premissa partilhada, aquilo em que o texto do Sequestro e a obra de Candido convergem; na segunda parte, realizada nossa crítica, proporemos um modo alternativo de compreender o esquema triparte do processo da Formação, a saber, o sequenciamento “manifestação”, “configuração” e “sistema consolidado”.
Poética e erótica da discórdia
Authors: Natali Marcos
Published: July 2024

Voltando à cena de uma divergência entre Roberto Schwarz e Caetano Veloso, a propósito da publicação de Verdade tropical, propondo que no episódio encontramos elementos que nos ajudam a entender aspectos relevantes da história do debate crítico brasileiro, este trabalho destaca a importância nesses embates da disputa pela forma do confronto – seus limites, suas regras, seus objetivos, seu sentido, até mesmo seu nome. A hipótese é que na atenção à forma e ao estilo dessas encenações públicas da discórdia aprende-se algo importante sobre como os autores compreendem a diferença, a sociabilidade crítica, a natureza da disputa intelectual e a subjetividade política. Interessa também o aspecto pedagógico presente nessas intervenções, que são sempre também sinalizações, a um terceiro, de como se deve tocar o outro. O trabalho tem, portanto, objetivo pontual e restrito, entendendo-se como uma nota de rodapé a um debate que já possui sua própria fortuna crítica, que inclui análises do caso feitas por João Camillo Penna, Alexandre Nodari e José Miguel Wisnik.
Primary Gastric and Duodenal Mucosa-Associated Lymphoid Tissue Lymphoma With Symptomatic Anemia
Authors: Alabed Abdulla , Abubaker Faisal , Sharif Omar , Zayed Alddana , Aljufairi Eman
Published: July 2024

Mucosal-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) is a low-grade lymphoma derived from marginal zone B cells in extranodal tissue. Gastric MALT lymphoma is frequently seen; however, duodenal MALT lymphoma is rare, and there is no standardized knowledge up to date about the management of the disease. We present a case of a 56-year-old woman with gastric and duodenal MALT lymphoma.
Francisco J. Ayala: científico, humanista y amigo
Authors: Clegg Michael
Published: July 2024

Francisco J. Ayala fue una figura destacada en la biología evolutiva desde mediados del siglo XX hasta las dos primeras décadas del siglo XXI. El propósito de este artículo es intentar situar su obra en el contexto más amplio de la biología evolutiva y considerar brevemente sus importantes contribuciones a la filosofía de la biología, incluida la conciliación de la evolución biológica y la religión y sus escritos sobre la evolución de la ética. Otro propósito más personal es relatar su influencia en mí y en toda una generación de genetistas evolutivos. Para lograr estos dos objetivos, sitúo su obra en un contexto histórico más amplio, centrándome en sus primeros trabajos, que proporcionaron pruebas empíricas rigurosas de la hipótesis de la evolución de los genes neutros en la década de 1970. Intento dar una idea del ser humano que existe detrás de una obra increíble, además de explicar algunas de las influencias en su desarrollo.
Harnessing Evolution’s Gift of Borderless Wonder to Open New Economic Frontiers for Global Sustainability
Authors: Ayala Hana
Published: July 2024

Evolution transcends the natural world, oblivious to political borders. It is at the transnational scale of Earth’s evolutionary heritage where transformative scientific discoveries await. These discoveries’ potential to bolster environmental health and resilience by unmasking the most consequential evolutionary trajectories is increasingly coming to light. However, overlooked is a borderless mega-reserve of wonder unearthed along these trajectories and begging to be recognized and harnessed as an unmatched resource for charting a global pathway into a sustainable future. The article backs this assertion with a business model designed to engender a new-generation world travel industry that opens transnational frontiers for the confluence of science-, art-, and faith-based appreciation and guardianship of nature. This model reinforces with economic energy the inspiration it has drawn from Francisco J. Ayala’s engagement of art to bridge evolution, creativity, and the future of humanity, and from his treatment of science and religion as complementary windows into human understanding of the world.
Biotehnološki procesi kot sredstvo za povečanje dostopnosti in antioksidativne aktivnosti fenolnih spojin iz zrn krušne pšenice in pire
Authors: MENCIN Marjeta
Published: July 2024

Cereal grains, especially bran, are a rich source of phenolic compounds with antioxidant activity. The potential positive effects of phenolics from whole grains of spelt and  bread wheat on human health are limited by the poor bioaccessibility and bioavailability of their bound phenolics. Studies have shown that biotechnological processes (germination/fermentation/enzymatic treatment) are an effective strategy for improving the release of bound phenolics from the cell wall matrix of cereal grains. In this review article, the effects of biotechnological processes on the composition, antioxidant activity and bioaccessibility of phenolics from spelt and bread wheat grains are discussed in detail. Existing research indicates the presence of a different phenolics in spelt and bread wheat grains, making whole grains excellent for improving nutritional value of products. It has been shown that biotechnological processes can effectively increase the content of bioaccessible and bioavailable phenolics in cereal grains, which enables improved in vitro antioxidant activity. Currently, there is a lack of in vivo studies to confirm the findings obtained in vitro, so in vivo studies to determine the biological activity of phenolic compounds from pre-treated grains will be crucial in the future.