bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization of the autolysis of rainbow trout viscera for amino acid release using response surface methodology
Authors: Domínguez Haizea , Iñarra Bruno , Labidi Jalel , Bald Carlos
Published: July 2024

Background Due to the huge amounts of their production in Europe, their environmental impact, and the difficulty in processing them, there is a clear necessity for the valorization of rainbow trout viscera. Considering that the production of fishmeal with viscera can be problematic, and in order to make viscera more profitable, the production of fish protein hydrolysates has been considered. Although silage and enzymatic hydrolysis are the most common methods for obtaining hydrolysates, autolysis has emerged as an alternative method that uses endogenous enzymes of the viscera. Methods Considering the stability and characteristics of the enzymes, a factorial design was carried out using three variables: pH, temperature, and water content. The design resulted in 15 experiments, and the results were analyzed using response surface methodology. The optimum parameters were validated by comparing the predicted outcomes with experimental results. Additionally, a kinetics study was conducted to shorten the autolysis time. Results from autolysis were compared with those from silage and enzymatic hydrolysis in a previous study. Results The optimal conditions for achieving the highest degree of hydrolysis and yield of free amino acids (FAAs) per 100 g of viscera and per total protein were determined to be a pH of 8, a temperature of 40 ºC, and a water content of 6.85%. The pH and content of the added water were found to be significant variables during autolysis (p < 0.05). The kinetic study showed that 7 h was still required to be effective. Conclusions Autolysis achieved a lower degree of hydrolysis than silage; however, as it solubilized more protein, the global yield of free amino acids per 100 g of viscera was slightly higher. It was concluded that endogenous alkaline proteases could be used in an autolytic process to obtain a free amino acid-rich hydrolysate from trout viscera.
Atacama Large Aperture Submillimeter Telescope (AtLAST) science: Probing the transient and time-variable sky
Authors: Orlowski-Scherer John , Maccarone Thomas , Bright Joe , Kamiński Tomasz , Koss Michael , Mohan Atul , Miguel Montenegro-Montes Francisco , Næss Sigurd , Ricci Claudio , Severgnini Paola , Stanke Thomas , Vignali Cristian , Wedemeyer Sven , Booth Mark , Cicone Claudia , Di Mascolo Luca , Johnstone Doug , Mroczkowski Tony , Cordiner Martin , Greiner Jochen , Hatziminaoglou Evanthia , van Kampen Eelco , Klaassen Pamela , Lee Minju , Liu Daizhong , Saintonge Amélie , Smith Matthew , Thelen Alexander
Published: July 2024

The study of transient and variable events, including novae, active galactic nuclei, and black hole binaries, has historically been a fruitful path for elucidating the evolutionary mechanisms of our universe. The study of such events in the millimeter and submillimeter is, however, still in its infancy. Submillimeter observations probe a variety of materials, such as optically thick dust, which are hard to study in other wavelengths. Submillimeter observations are sensitive to a number of emission mechanisms, from the aforementioned cold dust, to hot free-free emission, and synchrotron emission from energetic particles. Study of these phenomena has been hampered by a lack of prompt, high sensitivity submillimeter follow-up, as well as by a lack of high-sky-coverage submillimeter surveys. In this paper, we describe how the proposed Atacama Large Aperture Submillimeter Telescope (AtLAST) could fill in these gaps in our understanding of the transient universe. We discuss a number of science cases that would benefit from AtLAST observations, and detail how AtLAST is uniquely suited to contributing to them. In particular, AtLAST’s large field of view will enable serendipitous detections of transient events, while its anticipated ability to get on source quickly and observe simultaneously in multiple bands make it also ideally suited for transient follow-up. We make theoretical predictions for the instrumental and observatory properties required to significantly contribute to these science cases, and compare them to the projected AtLAST capabilities. Finally, we consider the unique ways in which transient science cases constrain the observational strategies of AtLAST, and make prescriptions for how AtLAST should observe in order to maximize its transient science output without impinging on other science cases.
Should we be wary of the role of scientific publishers in Open Science?
Authors: Fillon Adrien , Maniadis Zacharias , Méndez Eva , Sánchez-Núñez Pablo
Published: July 2024

We wish to express our concern for the role of for-profit scientific publishers in understanding and appropriating what “Open Science” means. This role can be characterised as opportunistic, and has led to an interpretation that can cause considerable confusion when we identify Open Science with Open Access and Open Access with "paying for publishing”. This simplistic approach to what Open Science entails has led to poor quality publications, hindering the improvement of researchers' practices and culture. We discuss and clarify issues, identifying “false friends”, misunderstandings and misleading interpretations of Open Science. A superficial interpretation, sometimes driven by vested interests or simply due to the proliferation of bad practices, leads to unethical behaviour or simply opportunism, in the ‘publish and perish’ context where Open Science has developed. We then provide guidance on challenges and potential solutions for all stakeholders to increase rigour and credibility in science, through a genuine researcher perspective of Open Science.
Integrated Fire Management and Closer to Nature Forest Management at the Landscape Scale as a Holistic Approach to Foster Forest Resilience to Wildfires
Authors: Kalapodis Nikolaos , Sakkas Georgios
Published: July 2024

This policy brief examines and highlights the importance of implementing two key approaches to increasing forest resilience to wildfire in the face of climate change. The first approach explores Integrated Fire Management (IFM) and the second analyses the Closer-To-Nature Forest Management (CTNFM), both with landscape-scale connectivity. The document discusses various strategies and principles to address the challenges posed by wildfires, and their associated impacts such as forest degradation and biodiversity loss. It emphasizes the urgent need for global action, political commitment, and public awareness to address these issues effectively. Key topics covered include wildfire adaptation strategies of plant species and the impact of climate change and land use on fire regimes. Silvicultural closer-to-nature practices, such as the promotion of natural forest regeneration with enhancement of broadleaves, mixed stand composition and strategic tree spacing are examined as means to reduce the spread of fires in wildfire-prone areas. This paper also highlights the benefits of a landscape-scale approach to sustainable forest management that includes wildfire prevention, ecological resilience, habitat conservation and resource management. Recommendations are made for policy makers to support these management strategies through collaboration, enforcement, ecological stewardship, monitoring capabilities, public education, research support and international cooperation. The integration of these approaches can enhance wildfire mitigation, biodiversity conservation, ecosystem resilience, timber yield, carbon storage, water quality and recreational opportunities, thereby promoting resilient landscapes and communities. Ultimately, the combined implementation of IFM and CTNFM practices is essential to achieve long-term forest sustainability and resilience.
The proportion and determinants of appropriate health seeking behavior for febrile illness among caregivers of children under-five years in Butula sub-county, Busia county, Kenya
Authors: Kananura Jean L. , C.Rono Betsy , S.Phiri Kamija
Published: July 2024

Background Almost 10 million children under the age of five in Kenya, die due to fever-related diseases. In Busia, a county in Kenya, malaria accounts for 13% of all child fatalities under the age of five, a number higher than any other county. This study aimed to determine (a) proportion of appropriate health-seeking behavior and (b) determinants of health-seeking behaviors (HSBs) among their caregivers in Butula Sub-County, Busia County, as reported by the caregivers. Methods This cross-sectional mixed-method study included 271 caregivers, 11 community health volunteers, and health facility workers in Butula Sub-County. Systematic random sampling for participants and purposive sampling for key informants were used. A questionnaire collected the data that was analysed using frequency and percentages and logistic regression. Results 70.1% of caregivers reported seeking care for a child's fever within 24 hours. Individual factors that caregivers reported to influence appropriate health-seeking HSB were unemployment (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 0.49, 95% CI: 0.217 – 0.593, p = 0.018), self-medication preference (aOR = 0.14, 95% CI: 0.054 – 0.363, p < 0.001), had atleast two children (aOR = 0.63, 95% CI: 0.425 – 0.937, p = 0.042), and confidence in identifying fever (aOR = 7.0, 95% CI: 2.200 – 22.439, p = 0.001). Health-system factors reported to influence HSBs were facility too far (aOR = 0.86, 95% CI: 0.526 – 0.914, p = 0.027), getting health education (aOR = 1.8, 95% CI: 1.201-4.122, p=0.015), and facility level (aOR = 4.4, 95% CI: 2.015 – 9.750, p < 0.001). Qualitative findings found health system factors related to HSB as stockouts, facility distance, and staff workload. Conclusions Policy and practice efforts should focus on significant individual and health system determinants for HSBs among caregivers of children under five with febrile illness.
The burden of non-communicable diseases in India: Why the intersectionality lens matters?
Authors: Mishra Manasee , Priyadarshini Padma
Published: July 2024

In India, structures such as caste, class and gender have been shaped by socio-historical forces such as colonialism, development, capitalism and patriarchy. Many of the forces are still at play. The intersection of such structural bases happens in a complex manner in a dynamic socio-historical environment resulting in differential power and privileges for individuals and social groups in Indian society. NCDs are chronic and social determinism shapes the lifestyle choices (e.g. diet and physical activity) that people make. Intersectional experiences result in distinct life chances, shaping exposure to risk factors (both behavioural and environmental), care seeking behaviour, and health outcomes. It is, therefore, imperative to go beyond the individual in the discourse on NCDs. It is equally necessary to understand the complexity of the dynamic and intersecting nature of inequities playing out in socio-historical contexts that shape intersectional experiences of uneven exposure to risk factors, care seeking behaviour and resultant health outcomes for social groups and population subgroups in India. The epidemiological capture of the public health discourse on NCDs in India is reflected in the research and policy articulation of it. This can be limiting, both in terms of understanding NCDs, and responding to it in policies and programmes to secure population health. The appreciation of the importance of the intersectionality lens, and its adoption in research and policy formulation on NCDs in India, will be crucial in lessening their burden and promoting the health of its people. Using the lens in the design, implementation and evaluation of programmes on NCDs can advance equity in India.
From paper to purpose: Phronesis-informed essential characteristics for therapeutic practitioners in Singapore to attenuate the impact of credentialism (Part 1)
Authors: Nair Praveen , Wu Shuang , Peh Gwendolyn , Omar Noor Azean
Published: July 2024

To date there has been little research or consensus on the characteristics essential for therapeutic practitioners in Singapore (i.e., professionals engaging in counseling or counseling-related work). Whilst there are several academic programs in the country leading to readily available credentials in this arena, and a number of graduates entering therapeutic work annually, there is little examination as to what characteristics are essential for graduates once they leave the halls of academia. Compounding matters is the fact that Singapore is grappling with credentialism; an element that may be serving to obscure therapeutic competencies for hiring organizations and clinical supervisors. This paper, guided by phronesis and research, comprises of points extrapolated from a combined total of 50 years of practice experience within the country, and suggests 13 characteristics beyond credentials that are essential for therapeutic practitioners in Singapore. As the first of its kind for the local context, the purpose of the paper is to advance therapeutic practice by providing ground-up, practical, experience-based knowledge that can be beneficial in multiple ways such as initiating a reflexive and dialogical stance that may aid in bridging the divide between credentialism and actual practice not only in Singapore, but in other multicultural communities as well. While grounded in psychology, the arguments within the paper also traverse the disciplines of social work, counseling, management, and education, thereby facilitating transdisciplinary resonance. Additionally, the paper seeks to serve as a starting point for further examination in an area that is critical yet under-explored. Part 1 of the paper provides context and elaborates on six proposed characteristics. Part 2 will continue with seven characteristics and the potential impact of the paper.
Dance/movement interventions and students with exceptionalities: A critical review
Authors: Anderson Alida , Mathews Reba
Published: July 2024

This critical narrative review presents findings of physical activity interventions involving dance/movement for students with exceptionalities. This review describes the status of dance/movement intervention research supporting students’ intersectional identities, including exceptionality. Dance/movement research from 2013 to 2023 was reviewed to identify the extent to which research addresses dimensions of students’ identities. First, dance/movement research is situated within physical activity intervention research. Next, findings from 82 dance/movement research studies within education and exceptionality categories, including autism, physical, and social emotional dimensions is summarized. Of those studies, five studies address participants’ intersectional identities including exceptionality. Positive outcomes of dance/movement interventions for students with exceptionalities include relationship building, well-being, individualized education, and cultural identity. Specific intervention techniques of mirroring, rhythm matching, and social collaboration with teachers and peers are identified as efficacious for improving students’ social-emotional, cognitive, and motor skills. Dance/movement interventions are also related to teachers’ awareness and affirmation of dimensions of students’ backgrounds and interests through student-centered dance/movement techniques. While the social-emotional, cognitive, and motor benefits are widely documented in the research, only a handful of studies address aspects of participants’ identities other than exceptionality category and age. The findings of this review have implications for teachers’ increased self-awareness and knowledge of dance/movement intervention techniques in support of students’ developmental skill outcomes and intersectional identities, as well as for dance/movement intervention research that addresses multiple dimensions of students’ identities.
Interpreting pathology test result values with comparators (< , >) in Electronic Health Records research: an OpenSAFELY short data report
Authors: Curtis Helen J , Fisher Louis , Evans David ,   OpenSAFELY Collaborative, Bacon Sebastian , Mehrkar Amir , Goldacre Ben , MacKenna Brian
Published: July 2024

Background Numeric results of pathology tests are sometimes returned as a range rather than a precise value, e.g. “<10”. In health data research, test result values above or below clinical threshold values are often used to categorise patients into groups; however comparators (<, > etc) are typically stored separately to the numeric values and often ignored, but may influence interpretation. Methods With the approval of NHS England we used routine clinical data from 24 million patients in OpenSAFELY to identify pathology tests with comparators commonly attached to result values. For each test we report: the proportion returned with comparators present, split by comparator type and geographic region; the specific numeric result values returned with comparators, and the associated reference limits. Results We identified 11 common test codes where at least one in four results had comparators. Three codes related to glomerular filtration rate (GFR) tests/calculations, with 31-45% of results returned with “≥” comparators. At least 90% of tests with numeric values 60 and 90 represented ranges (≥60 and ≥90 respectively) rather than exact values. The other tests - four blood tests (Nucleated red blood cell count, Plasma C reactive protein, Tissue transglutaminase immunoglobulin A, and Rheumatoid factor), two urine tests (albumin/microalbumin) and two faecal tests (calprotectin and quantitative faecal immunochemical test) - were returned with “≤” comparators (29-86%). Conclusions Comparators appear commonly in certain pathology tests in electronic health records. For most common affected tests, we expect there to be minimal implications for researchers for most use-cases. However, care should be taken around whether results falling exactly on clinical threshold values should be considered “normal” or “abnormal”. Results from GFR tests/calculations cannot reliably distinguish between mild kidney disease (stage G2, 60-<90) versus healthy kidney function (90+). More broadly, health data researchers using numeric test result values should consider the impact of comparators.
The genome sequence of a tachinid fly, Lypha dubia Fallén, 1810
Authors: Falk Steven , Akinmusola Ruth Y. ,   University of Oxford and Wytham Woods Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Management, Samples and Laboratory team,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: Sequencing Operations,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Core Informatics team,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: July 2024

We present a genome assembly from an individual male Lypha dubia (tachinid fly; Arthropoda; Insecta; Diptera; Tachinidae). The genome sequence is 645.0 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 6 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the X and Y sex chromosomes. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 16.94 kilobases in length.
A fRAmework of the DetermInants of Arts aNd Cultural Engagement (RADIANCE): integrated insights from ecological, behavioural and complex adaptive systems theories
Authors: Fancourt Daisy , Warran Katey
Published: July 2024

Background Arts and cultural engagement (ACEng) is ubiquitous across every human culture since palaeolithic times, but in contemporary society, ACEng is unevenly distributed, demographically, socio-economically, geographically and politically. But what are the “determinants” of ACEng (i.e., the facilitators or barriers to people’s engagement) and how can they be optimised? Despite a large body of theory and evidence on individual determinants, this work has largely occurred in disciplinary silos, which has led variously to contrasting discourses and approaches, criticism, and inconsistent findings. What we lack is a rigorous comprehensive understanding of these determinants (both those already theorised and those that have been little recognised as determinants to date) that goes beyond descriptively showing inequalities, instead explaining why these inequalities exist and how they can be overcome. This paper explores the currently recognised determinants of ACEng, and existing theoretical approaches to these determinants. Methods Drawing on the theoretical bases of ecological systems theory, ecosocial theory and complex adaptive systems science, we conducted a review and iterative theorising process. Results We propose a new theoretical framework of the determinants of arts and cultural engagement (RADIANCE) developed through cross-disciplinary literature reviewing, domain mapping, and consensus building. Conclusions Overall, we identified 35 different factors that can act as determinants of ACEng across micro, meso, exo, macro and chrono levels. We broadly categorised these as social (i.e. a primary feature being the interaction of people), tangible (i.e. a primary feature involving physical assets or resources or the production of physical assets), and intangible (i.e. constructs that do not have a primary physical basis but instead have a virtual or imaginary basis). The relevance and implications of this framework for broader research, policy, and practice and case studies of it in use are presented.
New frontiers for Biosocial Birth Cohort Research: interdisciplinary approaches to exposure, harmonisation and collaboration
Authors: Gibbon Sahra , Roberts Elizabeth, F. S. , Hardy Rebecca , Béhague Dominique, P. , Téllez Rojo Martha, M. , Goncalves-Soares Ana , Mathers Rosie , Penkler Michael , Fraga Silvia , Wooyoung Kim Andrew , Pentecost Michelle , Tabor Evie , Jeffries-Hein Robbin , Lappé Martine , Borra Catherine , Rossmann Sophia , Lloyd Stephanie , Filipe Angela , Silva Susana
Published: July 2024

In this Open Letter we bring together researchers from the Biosocial Birth Cohort Research (BBCR) network to reflect on interdisciplinary research and methods within birth cohorts and to draw attention to social science approaches to this field, which we argue are underutilized. A more comprehensive and consistent integration of social science approaches would expand the scope and value of research with birth cohorts. We critically engage three specific areas of birth cohort research that provide significant opportunities for exchange across disciplines; how exposure is defined and measured in birth cohorts, the harmonisation of data within and between birth cohorts and the broader experience of interdisciplinary collaboration in birth cohorts and birth cohort research. By reflecting on these three areas, we highlight the need for more in-depth dialogue between life and social sciences in the design of birth cohorts, the measures that are used, and the research made possible. We argue that improving the methodological tools for measuring social and biological exposures, incorporating the complexity of participant experience, and ensuring that longitudinal studies are recognised by a wider range of disciplines are essential for collaborative biosocial research with the goal of mitigating health disparities in global and public health.
The first BILGENSA Research Network workshop in Zambia: identifying research priorities, challenges and needs in genital bilharzia in Southern Africa
Authors: Ndubani Rhoda , Lamberti Olimpia , Kildemoes Anna , Hoekstra Pytsje , Fitzpatrick Jennifer , Kelly Helen , Vwalika Bellington , Randrianasolo Bodo , Sturt Amy , Kayuni Seke , Choko Augustine , Kasese Nkatya , Kjetland Eyrun , Nemungadi Takalani , Mocumbi Sibone , Samson Anna , Ntapara Elizabeth , Thomson Anifrid , Danstan Elizabeth , Chikwari Chido Dziya , Martin Kevin , Rabiu Ibrahim , Terkie Gifty , Chaima David , Kasoka Manuel , Joeker Karoline , Arenholt Louise Thomsen Schmidt , Leutscher Peter , Stothard Russel , Rabozakandria Oliva , Gouvras Anouk , Munthali Tendai , Hameja Grace , Kanfwa Paul , Hikabasa Halwindi , Ayles Helen , Shanaube Kwame , Bustinduy Amaya L.
Published: July 2024

Female genital schistosomiasis (FGS) and male genital schistosomiasis (MGS) are gender-specific manifestations of urogenital schistosomiasis. Morbidity is a consequence of prolonged inflammation in the human genital tract caused by the entrapped eggs of the waterborne parasite, Schistosoma (S.) haematobium. Both diseases affect the sexual and reproductive health (SRH) of millions of people globally, especially in sub-Sahara Africa (SSA). Awareness and knowledge of these diseases is largely absent among affected communities and healthcare workers in endemic countries. Accurate burden of FGS and MGS disease estimates, single and combined, are absent, mostly due to the absence of standardized methods for individual or population-based screening and diagnosis. In addition, there are disparities in country-specific FGS and MGS knowledge, research and implementation approaches, and diagnosis and treatment. There are currently no WHO guidelines to inform practice. The BILGENSA (Genital Bilharzia in Southern Africa) Research Network aimed to create a collaborative multidisciplinary network to advance clinical research of FGS and MGS across Southern African endemic countries. The workshop was held in Lusaka, Zambia over two days in November 2022. Over 150 researchers and stakeholders from different schistosomiasis endemic settings attended. Attendees identified challenges and research priorities around FGS and MGS from their respective countries. Key research themes identified across settings included: 1) To increase the knowledge about the local burden of FGS and MGS; 2) To raise awareness among local communities and healthcare workers; 3) To develop effective and scalable guidelines for disease diagnosis and management; 4) To understand the effect of treatment interventions on disease progression, and 5) To integrate FGS and MGS within other existing sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services. In its first meeting, the BILGENSA Network set forth a common research agenda across S. haematobium endemic countries for the control of FGS and MGS.
¿UNA JUSTICIA EXTRAJUDICIAL? LA SUPERINTENDENCIA DE POLICÍA DE LA CIUDAD DE MÉXICO Y SUS LAZOS CON EL GOBIERNO VIRREINAL (1811-1821).
Authors: Martín Blázquez Francisco Miguel
Published: July 2024

Este trabajo se centra, desde un enfoque institucional, en la composición y labores desempeñadas por la Superintendencia de Policía y Tranquilidad Pública de la Ciudad de México durante el desarrollo del conflicto independentista.
Involving parents in the care management of adolescents with complex congenital heart disease
Authors: Kinsey Laura
Published: July 2024

Laura Kinsey highlights the need for health professionals to involve parents when delivering adolescent congenital heart disease services.
Making Song Travel: Crosscurrents of Language and Landscape in Welsh and Scottish Song Collections, 1804–1818
Authors: Edwards Elizabeth , McCue Kirsteen
Published: July 2024

Abstract: From the second half of the eighteenth century onwards, song collections gave dramatic presence to the distinctive landscapes, histories, and traditions of the nations and regions of Britain and Ireland. This essay analyzes some of the musical, linguistic, and cultural features of 'national airs' through case studies from Scotland and Wales. Focusing on editors John Parry, George Thomson, and Alexander Campbell, we trace crosscurrents of travel, language, and translation revealing how Romantic songs move unpredictably between manuscript and print, beyond national borders and across lines of class—powerfully shaping the cultural and political imagination of the Celtic-speaking countries in the process.
Optical path length difference of ray paths inside a reference sphere: a new approach for determining wavefront aberrations in axially symmetrical systems with an object at infinity
Authors: Lin Psang Dain
Published: July 2024

A new, to the best of our knowledge, method is proposed to analyze the wavefront aberrations in an axially symmetrical system with an object at infinity. The study commences by determining the optical path length (OPL) difference between two ray paths from the object to the reference sphere. The proposed method is then used to explore the claim in J. Opt. Soc. Am. A 19, 1187 (2002)JOAOD60740-323210.1364/JOSAA.19.001187 that wavefront aberrations do not depend on the radius of the reference sphere. It is found that this claim does not hold when the image plane is non-Gaussian. The proposed approach is applied to determine the primary wavefront aberrations of an axially symmetrical system with an object at infinity. The numerical values of the primary aberrations (spherical, coma, astigmatism, and field curvature) are in excellent agreement with those determined by Zemax simulations. The superiority of the proposed method over Zemax in determining the distortion aberration is confirmed through raytracing. Overall, the proposed method provides a useful contribution to the development of optical systems for applications requiring high-resolution imaging.
Multi-band enhanced nonreciprocal thermal radiation based on Weyl semimetals
Authors: Li Haohang , Xiao Jinjie , Liu Zhicheng , Cui Ruoheng , Chen Junsheng , Luo Fuyong , Shen Jian , Li Chaoyang
Published: July 2024

Previous studies manifested that the majority of structures that exhibit nonreciprocal thermal radiation in the mid-infrared are capable of achieving either single-band strong nonreciprocity or multi-band weak nonreciprocity at a large incidence angle. However, few structures can realize multi-band strong nonreciprocity at a small incidence angle. To address such scientific issues, we propose a tunable nonreciprocal thermal emitter based on gallium arsenide (GaAs)/graphene/Weyl semimetal (WSM). This device is capable of achieving strong nonreciprocity at 7.3 μm, 10 μm and 13.6 μm wavelengths at an incidence angle of 25.5°. It is shown that the field enhancement of the GaAs/graphene composite layer can improve the nonreciprocal response of the WSM layer. In addition, by changing the Fermi energy level of graphene and the axial vector
b
of the Weyl semimetal, tunable nonreciprocal thermal radiation can be realized. What's more, we find that the structure breaks Kirchhoff's law without lithography and an external magnetic field, which reveals the advantages of applying our research in the field of thermal radiation.
Robust unrolled network for lensless imaging with enhanced resistance to model mismatch and noise
Authors: Qian Hui , Ling Hong , Lu XiaoQiang
Published: July 2024

Lensless imaging has gained popularity in various applications due to its user-friendly nature, cost-effectiveness, and compact design. However, achieving high-quality image reconstruction within this framework remains a significant challenge. Lensless imaging measurements are associated with distinct point spread functions (PSFs), resulting in many PSFs introducing artifacts into the underlying physical model. This discrepancy between the actual and prior models poses challenges for standard reconstruction methods to effectively address high-quality image reconstruction by solving a regularization-based inverse problem. To overcome these issues, we propose MN-FISTA-Net, an unrolled neural network that unfolds the fast iterative shrinkage/thresholding algorithm for solving mixed norm regularization with a deep denoiser prior. Our method enhances mask-based lensless imaging performance by efficiently addressing noise and model mismatch, as evidenced by significant improvements in image quality compared to existing approaches.
Room-temperature high-power laser emission of erbium-doped fluorite crystals at 2.8 µm
Authors: Zhu Lei , Zhang Zhen , Wang Yunfei , Ding Heng , Jiang Dapeng , Zhao Yongguang , Xie Guoqiang , Xu Jun , Su Liangbi
Published: July 2024

We report on a high-power continuous-wave (CW) laser at 2.8 µm employing erbium (Er)-doped fluorite crystals as gain materials. With an optimized Er3+ ion concentration, thin “slab” geometry of the sample matching with the tailored pump beam profile and compensated negative thermal lens using a pair of concave mirrors cavity configuration, a highest power of 14.5 W is achieved from a dual-end-pumped Er:CaF2 laser, which, to the best of our knowledge, presents the record power from the room-temperature Er-bulk lasers in the 3-µm spectral range. In addition, 8.05 W output power is obtained from the Er:SrF2 laser with an RMS power stability of 0.35%. This work indicates that Er-doped fluorite crystals with large-scale available fabrication are promising candidates for high-power laser emission at ∼3 µm.
Design of near-perfect absorptance in few-layer WSe2 via cooperative enhancement mechanisms
Authors: Ozaktas Ekin Gunes , Chintapalli Sreyas , Kamal Serene , Thon Susanna M.
Published: July 2024

Two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenides are of growing interest for flexible optoelectronics and power applications, due to their tunable optical properties, lightweight nature, and mechanical pliability. However, their thin nature inherently limits their optical absorption and, therefore, efficiency. Here, we propose a few-layer WSe2 optoelectronic device that achieves near perfect absorption through a combination of optical effects. The WSe2 can be scalably grown below an Al2O3 superstrate. Our device includes a corrugated back reflector, modeled as a plasmonic nanowire array. We investigate the entire range of widths of the corrugations in the back reflector, including the edge cases of a simple back mirror (width equal to period) and a Fabry-Perot cavity (zero width). We demonstrate the zero-mode enhancement arising from the back reflector, the weakly coupled enhancement arising from the Fabry-Perot cavity, and the strongly coupled enhancement arising from the localized surface plasmon resonance of the nanowires, explain the physical nature of the spectral peaks, and theoretically model the hybridization of these phenomena using a coupled oscillator model. Our champion device exhibits 82% peak absorptance in the WSe2 alone, 92% in the WSe2 plus nanowires, and 98% total absorptance. Thus, we achieve a near-perfect absorber in which most of the absorption is in the few-layer WSe2, with a desirable device framework for integration with scalable growth of the WSe2, thereby making our designs applicable to a range of practical optoelectronic devices.
“Good fathers”: Community perceptions of idealized fatherhood and reported fathering behaviors in Mwanza, Tanzania
Authors: Alsager Alya , McCann Juliet K. , Bhojani Alina , Joachim Damas , Joseph Julieth , Gibbs Andrew , Kabati Mary , Jeong Joshua
Published: July 2024

Globally, perceptions of idealized fatherhood have been expanding beyond men’s breadwinning roles to also value men’s engagement in nurturing care. While fathers’ caregiving behaviors are increasing, most childcare activities are still largely performed by mothers. In this study, we unpacked community members’ beliefs about the meaning of “good fathers” and explored the degree to which these values aligned with the main caregiving behaviors reported about fathers with young children under age 2 years in Mwanza, Tanzania. Qualitative data were collected as part of a broader formative research study for which we conducted in-depth interviews with 29 fathers, 23 mothers, 4 village leaders and 4 community health workers as well as 3 focus group discussions with fathers, 2 with mothers, and 6 with both fathers and mothers combined. For this secondary data analysis, we used a grounded theory approach combined with thematic content analysis to investigate the nature of fatherhood. We discovered four key ideals associated with “good fathers”: fathers as providers, nurturers, supportive partners, and authoritarians. The primary ideal of fathers as breadwinners was strongly aligned with the main reported practice of fathers trying hard to financially providing for their families. However, paternal behaviors reflecting ideals of fathers as nurturers and supportive partners were less practiced. Although ideals towards good fathers as authoritarian were least explicitly valued, many fathers were reported as engaging in controlling behaviors and using violence. The links between fatherhood ideals and behaviors was influenced by various factors, including poverty, men’s limited time availability at home, and restrictive gender norms. Overall, our results reveal some alignment but also inconsistencies between the ideal version of fatherhood and commonly reported paternal practices. These discrepancies highlight the need for further investigation into the underlying factors that both enable and constrain the links between fatherhood ideals and behaviors. Our study results have important implications for the design of interventions that seek to enhance fatherhood to improve the development and wellbeing of children and families.
Community health workers’ barriers and facilitators to use a novel mHealth tool for motivational interviewing to improve adherence to care among youth living with HIV in rural Nepal
Authors: Khatri Rekha , Rimal Pragya , Ekstrand Maria L. , Sapkota Sabitri , Sigdel Kripa , Sharma Dikshya , Shrestha Jene , Shrestha Srijana , Acharya Bibhav
Published: July 2024

Adherence to treatment regimens is a common challenge in achieving HIV control, especially among youth. Motivational Interviewing (MI) is an evidence-based intervention to facilitate behavior change (such as adherence to treatment) by focusing on the client’s priorities and motivations. Community Health Workers (CHWs), who are well situated to engage clients for care, can use MI but studies have shown that they often lose MI skills. While mHealth tools can support CHWs in delivering evidence-based counseling techniques such as MI, it is important to understand the barriers and facilitators in using such tools. Our parent study includes developing and testing a novel mHealth tool called, Community based mHealth Motivational Interviewing Tool for HIV-positive youth (COMMIT+). In this descriptive qualitative study, we share the results from semi-structured interviews with 12 CHWs who used COMMIT+ to engage youth living with HIV, and 7 of their Community Health Nurse supervisors. Our results demonstrate the barriers and facilitators experienced by CHWs in using a mHealth tool to deliver MI for youth living with HIV in rural Nepal, and highlight that supportive supervision and user-friendly features of the tool can mitigate many of the barriers.
Rocky Mountain spotted fever is a neglected tropical disease in Latin America
Authors: Álvarez-Hernández Gerardo , Paddock Christopher D. , Walker David H. , Valenzuela Jesus G. , Calleja-López J. R. Tadeo , Rivera-Rosas Cristian Noé , Sotelo-Mundo Rogerio Rafael
Published: July 2024

Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF), a severe and extraordinarily lethal infectious disease, has emerged as a widespread public health crisis among predominantly vulnerable populations in several countries of Latin America, particularly evident in northern Mexico. Historically, RMSF has gained less attention than many other tropical infectious diseases, resulting in insufficient allocations of resources and development of capabilities for its prevention and control in endemic regions. We argue that RMSF fulfills accepted criteria for a neglected tropical disease (NTD). The relative neglect of RMSF in most Latin American countries contributes to disparities in morbidity and mortality witnessed in this region. By recognizing RMSF as an NTD, an increased public policy interest, equitable and more appropriate allocation of resources, scientific interest, and social participation can ameliorate the impact of this potentially treatable disease, particularly in vulnerable populations.
A high precision laser scanning system for measuring shape and volume of transtibial amputee residual limbs: Design and validation
Authors: Squibb Carson O. , Madigan Michael L. , Philen Michael K.
Published: July 2024

Changes in limb volume and shape among transtibial amputees affects socket fit and comfort. The ability to accurately measure residual limb volume and shape and relate it to comfort could contribute to advances in socket design and overall care. This work designed and validated a novel 3D laser scanner that measures the volume and shape of residual limbs. The system was designed to provide accurate and repeatable scans, minimize scan duration, and account for limb motion during scans. The scanner was first validated using a cylindrical body with a known shape. Mean volumetric errors of 0.17% were found under static conditions, corresponding to a radial spatial resolution of 0.1 mm. Limb scans were also performed on a transtibial amputee and yielded a standard deviation of 8.1 ml (0.7%) across five scans, and a 46 ml (4%) change in limb volume when the socket was doffed after 15 minutes of standing.
In situ Patch-seq analysis of microglia reveals a lack of stress genes as found in FACS-isolated microglia
Authors: Bakina Olga , Conrad Thomas , Mitic Nina , Vidal Ramon Oliveira , Obrusnik Tessa , Sai Somesh , Nolte Christiane , Semtner Marcus , Kettenmann Helmut
Published: July 2024

We applied the patch-seq technique to harvest transcripts from individual microglial cells from cortex, hippocampus and corpus callosum of acute brain slices from adult mice. After recording membrane currents with the patch-clamp technique, the cytoplasm was collected via the pipette and underwent adapted SMART-seq2 preparation with subsequent sequencing. On average, 4138 genes were detected in 113 cells from hippocampus, corpus callosum and cortex, including microglia markers such as Tmem119, P2ry12 and Siglec-H. Comparing our dataset to previously published single cell mRNA sequencing data from FACS-isolated microglia indicated that two clusters of cells were absent in our patch-seq dataset. Pathway analysis of marker genes in FACS-specific clusters revealed association with microglial activation and stress response. This indicates that under normal conditions microglia in situ lack transcripts associated with a stress-response, and that the microglia-isolation procedure by mechanical dissociation and FACS triggers the expression of genes related to activation and stress.
Systematic review of thyroid function in NKX2-1-related disorders: Screening and diagnosis
Authors: Carmona-Hidalgo Beatriz , Martín-Gómez Carmen , Herrera-Ramos Estefanía , Rodríguez-López Rocío , Fontanet Laia-Nou , Moreno José C. , Blasco-Amaro Juan Antonio , Léger Juliane , Dario-Ortigoza-Escobar Juan ,   NKX2-1-Related Disorders Guideline Working Group
Published: July 2024

Background

NKX2-1-related disorders (NKX2-1-RD) are rare conditions affecting lung, thyroid, and brain development, primarily caused by pathogenic variants or deletions in the NKX2-1 gene. Congenital hypothyroidism (CH) is a common endocrine manifestation, leading to irreversible intellectual disability if left untreated.

Objectives

The aim was to evaluate the current evidence for the use of screening and diagnostic techniques for endocrine alterations in patients with NKX2-1-RD.

Methods

This systematic review was reported following the PRISMA guidelines. Two separate research questions in PICO format were addressed to cover initial screening and diagnosis procedures for endocrine diseases in patients with NKX2-1-RD. Eligibility criteria focused on patients with genetic confirmation of the disease and hypothyroidism. Various databases were searched, and data were extracted and assessed independently by two reviewers.

Results

Out of 1012 potentially relevant studies, 46 were included, for a total of 113 patients. CH was the most frequent endocrine alteration (45% of patients). Neonatal screening was reported in only 21% of patients based on blood TSH measurements. TSH thresholds varied widely across studies, making hypothyroidism detection ranges difficult to establish. Diagnostic tests using serum TSH were used to diagnose hypothyroidism or confirm its presence. 35% of patients were diagnosed at neonatal age, and 42% at adult age. Other hormonal dysfunctions identified due to clinical signs, such as anterior pituitary deficiencies, were detected later in life. Thyroid scintigraphy and ultrasonography allowed for the description of the thyroid gland in 30% of cases of hypothyroidism. Phenotypic variability was observed in individuals with the same variants, making genotype-phenotype correlations challenging.

Conclusion

This review highlights the need for standardized protocols in endocrine screening for NKX2-1-RD, emphasizing the importance of consistent methodology and hormone threshold levels. Variability in NKX2-1 gene variants further complicates diagnostic efforts. Future research should concentrate on optimizing early screening protocols and diagnostic strategies.
Large-scale determinants of street tree growth rates across an urban environment
Authors: Mailloux Brian J. , McGillis Clare , Maenza-Gmelch Terryanne , Culligan Patricia J. , He Mike Z. , Kaspi Gabriella , Miley Madeline , Komita-Moussa Ella , Sanchez Tiffany R. , Steiger Ella , Zhao Haokai , Cook Elizabeth M.
Published: July 2024

Urban street trees offer cities critical environmental and social benefits. In New York City (NYC), a decadal census of every street tree is conducted to help understand and manage the urban forest. However, it has previously been impossible to analyze growth of an individual tree because of uncertainty in tree location. This study overcomes this limitation using a three-step alignment process for identifying individual trees with ZIP Codes, address, and species instead of map coordinates. We estimated individual growth rates for 126,362 street trees (59 species and 19% of 2015 trees) using the difference between diameter at breast height (DBH) from the 2005 and 2015 tree censuses. The tree identification method was verified by locating and measuring the DBH of select trees and measuring a set of trees annually for over 5 years. We examined determinants of tree growth rates and explored their spatial distribution. In our newly created NYC tree growth database, fourteen species have over 1000 unique trees. The three most abundant tree species vary in growth rates; London Planetree (n = 32,056, 0.163 in/yr) grew the slowest compared to Honeylocust (n = 15,967, 0.356 in/yr), and Callery Pear (n = 15,902, 0.334 in/yr). Overall, Silver Linden was the fastest growing species (n = 1,149, 0.510 in/yr). Ordinary least squares regression that incorporated biological factors including size and the local urban form indicated that species was the major factor controlling growth rates, and tree stewardship had only a small effect. Furthermore, tree measurements by volunteer community scientists were as accurate as those made by NYC staff. Examining city wide patterns of tree growth indicates that areas with a higher Social Vulnerability Index have higher than expected growth rates. Continued efforts in street tree planting should utilize known growth rates while incorporating community voices to better provide long-term ecosystem services across NYC.