bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Older women’s experience with COVID-19 pandemic: A study of risk perception and coping among culturally and linguistically diverse population in South Australia
Authors: Siddiquee Noore Alam , Hamiduzzaman Mohammad , McLaren Helen , Patmisari Emi
Published: March 2024

Background

A global catastrophe–the COVID-19 pandemic–appears to have two-dimensional health consequences for older adults: high risk of being infected and psychological distress. There is limited evidence on how the pandemic has impacted the life and coping of older adults who are culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD), women in particular. This study explored the COVID-19 risk perception and coping strategies of older CALD women in South Australia.

Methods

A mixed-methods research design was employed, involving a 31-items coping and emergency preparation scale for survey and semi-structured interviews with participants. The older CALD women were approached through 11 multicultural NGOs. One hundred and nine women participants from 28 CALD communities completed the online surveys; 25 of them agreed to a telephone interview and provided their contact details. 15 older CALD women ultimately participated in interviews.

Results

Mean sum-score of dread risk, unknown risk, and fear (M: 43.5; SD: 4.9) indicated that the participants were somewhat anxious and worried. Mean sum-score of coping (M: 79.8; SD: 9.3) reported their compliance with expert advice and disinfection practices but accessing health information (M: 2.8; SD 1.4) and tendency to minimize anxiety (M: 2.1; SD: 1.2) were below neutral. Significant variations were found in coping in terms of age, meaning that the women aged 75 years and older were less likely to cope with the pandemic (P = 0.01). Emergency preparation differed based on the participants’ residence and occupation status. The deductive-inductive thematic analysis of interview data was framed around three priori themes: risks of being affected, emotional and behavioral coping, and emergency preparation and access to services.

Conclusions

Evidence shows a fear among the older CALD women with an endeavor to cope and prepare for emergency situations. This suggests the requirements for interventions that improve coping and reduce the risk of stress among them.
Quantitative imaging and semiotic phenotyping of mitochondrial network morphology in live human cells
Authors: Charrasse Sophie , Racine Victor , Saint-Omer Charlotte , Poquillon Titouan , Lionnard Loïc , Ledru Marine , Gonindard Christophe , Delaunois Sandrine , Kissa Karima , Frye Richard E. , Pastore Manuela , Reynes Christelle , Frechet Mathilde , Chajra Hanane , Aouacheria Abdel
Published: March 2024

The importance of mitochondria in tissue homeostasis, stress responses and human diseases, combined to their ability to transition between various structural and functional states, makes them excellent organelles for monitoring cell health. There is therefore a need for technologies to accurately analyze and quantify changes in mitochondrial organization in a variety of cells and cellular contexts. Here we present an innovative computerized method that enables accurate, multiscale, fast and cost-effective analysis of mitochondrial shape and network architecture from confocal fluorescence images by providing more than thirty features. In order to facilitate interpretation of the quantitative results, we introduced two innovations: the use of Kiviat-graphs (herein named MitoSpider plots) to present highly multidimensional data and visualization of the various mito-cellular configurations in the form of morphospace diagrams (called MitoSigils). We tested our fully automated image analysis tool on rich datasets gathered from live normal human skin cells cultured under basal conditions or exposed to specific stress including UVB irradiation and pesticide exposure. We demonstrated the ability of our proprietary software (named MitoTouch) to sensitively discriminate between control and stressed dermal fibroblasts, and between normal fibroblasts and other cell types (including cancer tissue-derived fibroblasts and primary keratinocytes), showing that our automated analysis captures subtle differences in morphology. Based on this novel algorithm, we report the identification of a protective natural ingredient that mitigates the deleterious impact of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) on mitochondrial organization. Hence we conceived a novel wet-plus-dry pipeline combining cell cultures, quantitative imaging and semiotic analysis for exhaustive analysis of mitochondrial morphology in living adherent cells. Our tool has potential for broader applications in other research areas such as cell biology and medicine, high-throughput drug screening as well as predictive and environmental toxicology.
Chronic viral infection impairs immune memory to a different pathogen
Authors: Yang Cheng , Liu Zhicui , Yang Ying , Cocka Luis J. , Li Yongguo , Zeng Weihong , Shen Hao
Published: March 2024

Chronic viral infections cause T cell dysfunction in both animal models and human clinical settings, thereby affecting the ability of the host immune system to clear viral pathogens and develop proper virus-specific immune memory. However, the impact of chronic viral infections on the host’s immune memory to other pathogens has not been well described. In this study, we immunized mice with recombinant Listeria monocytogenes expressing OVA (Lm-OVA) to generate immunity to Lm and allow analysis of OVA-specific memory T (Tm) cells. We then infected these mice with lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) strain Cl-13 which establishes a chronic infection. We found that chronically infected mice were unable to protect against Listeria re-challenge. OVA-specific Tm cells showed a progressive loss in total numbers and in their ability to produce effector cytokines in the context of chronic LCMV infection. Unlike virus-specific T cells, OVA-specific Tm cells from chronically infected mice did not up-regulate the expression of inhibitory receptors, a hallmark feature of exhaustion in virus-specific T cells. Finally, OVA-specific Tm cells failed to mount a robust recall response after bacteria re-challenge both in the chronically infected and adoptively transferred naïve hosts. These results show that previously established bacteria-specific Tm cells become functionally impaired in the setting of an unrelated bystander chronic viral infection, which may contribute to poor immunity against other pathogens in the host with chronic viral infection.
A clinically attenuated double-mutant of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus-2 that does not prompt overexpression of proinflammatory cytokines during co-infection with a secondary pathogen
Authors: Su Chia-Ming , Kim Jineui , Tang Junyu , Hung Yu Fan , Zuckermann Federico A. , Husmann Robert , Roady Patrick , Kim Jiyoun , Lee Young-Min , Yoo Dongwan
Published: March 2024

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) is known to suppress the type I interferon (IFNs-α/β) response during infection. PRRSV also activates the NF-κB signaling pathway, leading to the production of proinflammatory cytokines during infection. In swine farms, co-infections of PRRSV and other secondary bacterial pathogens are common and exacerbate the production of proinflammatory cytokines, contributing to the porcine respiratory disease complex (PRDC) which is clinically a severe disease. Previous studies identified the non-structural protein 1β (nsp1β) of PRRSV-2 as an IFN antagonist and the nucleocapsid (N) protein as the NF-κB activator. Further studies showed the leucine at position 126 (L126) of nsp1β as the essential residue for IFN suppression and the region spanning the nuclear localization signal (NLS) of N as the NF-κB activation domain. In the present study, we generated a double-mutant PRRSV-2 that contained the L126A mutation in the nsp1β gene and the NLS mutation (ΔNLS) in the N gene using reverse genetics. The immunological phenotype of this mutant PRRSV-2 was examined in porcine alveolar macrophages (PAMs) in vitro and in young pigs in vivo. In PAMs, the double-mutant virus did not suppress IFN-β expression but decreased the NF-κB-dependent inflammatory cytokine productions compared to those for wild-type PRRSV-2. Co-infection of PAMs with the mutant PRRSV-2 and Streptococcus suis (S. suis) also reduced the production of NF-κB-directed inflammatory cytokines. To further examine the cytokine profiles and the disease severity by the mutant virus in natural host animals, 6 groups of pigs, 7 animals per group, were used for co-infection with the mutant PRRSV-2 and S. suis. The double-mutant PRRSV-2 was clinically attenuated, and the expressions of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines were significantly reduced in pigs after bacterial co-infection. Compared to the wild-type PRRSV-2 and S. suis co-infection control, pigs coinfected with the double-mutant PRRSV-2 exhibited milder clinical signs, lower titers and shorter duration of viremia, and lower expression of proinflammatory cytokines. In conclusion, our study demonstrates that genetic modification of the type I IFN suppression and NF-κB activation functions of PRRSV-2 may allow us to design a novel vaccine candidate to alleviate the clinical severity of PRRS-2 and PRDC during bacterial co-infection.
Harvesting efficiency and understory damage with different cutting methods on two storied stands of silver birch and Norway spruce
Authors:   Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke), Natural resources, Kampusranta 9 C, FI-60320 Seinäjoki, Finland, Niemistö Pentti , Korpunen Heikki , Nuutinen Yrjö
Published: March 2024

Uneven-aged forests set certain challenges for cut-to-length harvesting work. It is a challenge to cost-effectively remove larger trees while leaving a healthy understory for regrowth. The study’s aim was to evaluate productivity and costs of harvesting two-storied Silver birch (Betula pendula Roth) and Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) H. Karst.) stands by creating time consumption models for cutting, and using existing models for forwarding. Damage to the remaining understory spruce was also examined. Four different harvesting methods were used: 1) all dominant birches were cut; 2) half of them thinned and understory was preserved; compared to 3) normal thinning of birch stand without understory; and 4) clear cutting of two-storied stand. Results showed the time needed for birch cutting was 26–30% lower when the understory was not preserved. Pulpwood harvesting of small sized spruces that prevent birch cutting was expensive, especially because of forwarding of small amounts with low timber density on the strip roads. Generally, when taking the cutting and forwarding into account, the unit cost at clear cuttings was lowest, due to lesser limitations on work. It was noted that with increasing removal from 100 to 300 m3 ha–1, the relative share of initial undamaged spruces after the harvest decreased from 65 to 50% when the aim was to preserve them. During summertime harvesting, the amount of stem damage was bigger than during winter. In conclusion, two-storied stands are possible to transit to spruce stands by accepting some losses in harvesting productivity and damages on remaining trees.
Zenei műfajokról alkotott tanulói vélemények
Authors: Földi Fanni , Szabó Norbert , Józsa Krisztián
Published: March 2024

Tanulmányunkban a zenei preferencia és a zenei stílus fogalmát, a zenei műfajok kategorizálásának nehézségeit tárgyaljuk. Kutatásunkban konkrét zenei példákon vizsgáljuk a 7–19 éves tanulók véleményét az egyes műfajokról (N=1159). Mérőeszközünk saját fejlesztésű online kérdőív volt, amelyben négy zenei részletet helyeztünk el. A zenei videók típusai: utcazene, rockzene, klasszikus zene és népzene. A zenei részletekhez kapcsolódóan háttérkérdéseket tettünk fel, amelyek a hangszerbemutatón való részvételre, zenei műsorok nézésére irányultak. Az adatokat a tanulók életkora, a hangszeren tanuló és nem tanuló diákok összehasonlítása, a családi háttér alapján értelmezzük. A műfajok megítélésében szignifikáns különbség van a nemek, az életkori csoportok, a hangszeren játszó és nem játszó tanulók, továbbá a családi háttér alapján. A nemek közötti összehasonlításból látszik, hogy a lányok pozitívabb visszajelzést adtak az egyes zenei részletekkel kapcsolatban. Az életkori csoportok vizsgálata során a 15-16 éves tanulók megítélése a legalacsonyabb mind a négy zenei részletnél. A hangszeren tanuló és nem tanuló diákok hét csoportján egyértelműen kirajzolódik, hogy azok a tanulók, akik nem tanulnak és nem is szeretnének hangszeren tanulni, szignifikánsan kevésbé kedvelik a zenei részleteket. A szülők iskolai végzettsége alapján szignifikáns különbségek vannak a tanulók között. Vizsgálati eredményeink visszajelzés értékűek lehetnek az alapvetően népzenei- és klasszikus zenei iskolai törzsanyagra építő ének-zene és hangszeroktatás számára, hiszen a tanulók, korcsoporttól és nemtől függetlenül a populáris műfajokat (utcazene, rockzene) szignifikánsan jobban kedvelik, mint a klasszikus zenét vagy népzenét, amelyek megítélése egyébként nem tér el egymástól.
Tecnologias de investimento e transformação de si via as imagens de “antes” e “depois”
Authors: Rohden Fabíolo , Cavalheiro Camila Silveira
Published: March 2024

O artigo analisa a presença de imagens e discursos que retratam a transformação entre o “antes” e o “depois” em grupos de cirurgia plástica no Facebook. O objetivo é compreender a centralidade ocupada pelas imagens nas narrativas públicas de transformação corporal, visando mapear quais as principais categorias acionadas pelas mulheres que integram e compõem esses espaços. As mudanças ocorrem sobretudo após processos de perda de peso e/ou ganho de massa muscular, tratamentos que resultem em alterações nos contornos corporais e procedimentos estéticos. Na análise discute-se a relevância concedida às dimensões do investimento e aprimoramento de si e também acerca de como estes processos afetam os modos de subjetivação contemporâneos.
Surgeon Preference Regarding Wound Dressing Management in Lumbar Fusion Surgery: An AO Spine Global Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ambrosio Luca , Vadalà Gianluca , Tavakoli Javad , Scaramuzzo Laura , Brodano Giovanni Barbanti , Lewis Stephen J. , Kato So , Cho Samuel K. , Yoon S. Tim , Kim Ho-Joong , Gary Matthew F. , Denaro Vincenzo ,   AO Spine Knowledge Forum Degenerative
Published: March 2024

Objective: To evaluate the global practice pattern of wound dressing use after lumbar fusion for degenerative conditions.Methods: A survey issued by AO Spine Knowledge Forums Deformity and Degenerative was sent out to AO Spine members. The type of postoperative dressing employed, timing of initial dressing removal, and type of subsequent dressing applied were investigated. Differences in the type of surgery and regional distribution of surgeons’ preferences were analyzed.Results: Right following surgery, 60.6% utilized a dry dressing, 23.2% a plastic occlusive dressing, 5.7% glue, 6% a combination of glue and polyester mesh, 2.6% a wound vacuum, and 1.2% other dressings. The initial dressing was removed on postoperative day 1 (11.6%), 2 (39.2%), 3 (20.3%), 4 (1.7%), 5 (4.3%), 6 (0.4%), 7 or later (12.5%), or depending on drain removal (9.9%). Following initial dressing removal, 75.9% applied a dry dressing, 17.7% a plastic occlusive dressing, and 1.3% glue, while 12.1% used no dressing. The use of no additional coverage after initial dressing removal was significantly associated with a later dressing change (p < 0.001). Significant differences emerged after comparing dressing management among different AO Spine regions (p < 0.001).Conclusion: Most spine surgeons utilized a dry or plastic occlusive dressing initially applied after surgery. The first dressing was more frequently changed during the first 3 postoperative days and replaced with the same type of dressing. While dressing policies tended not to vary according to the type of surgery, regional differences suggest that actual practice may be based on personal experience rather than available evidence.
Performance of a Large Language Model in the Generation of Clinical Guidelines for Antibiotic Prophylaxis in Spine Surgery
Authors: Zaidat Bashar , Shrestha Nancy , Rosenberg Ashley M. , Ahmed Wasil , Rajjoub Rami , Hoang Timothy , Mejia Mateo Restrepo , Duey Akiro H. , Tang Justin E. , Kim Jun S. , Cho Samuel K.
Published: March 2024

Objective: Large language models, such as chat generative pre-trained transformer (ChatGPT), have great potential for streamlining medical processes and assisting physicians in clinical decision-making. This study aimed to assess the potential of ChatGPT’s 2 models (GPT-3.5 and GPT-4.0) to support clinical decision-making by comparing its responses for antibiotic prophylaxis in spine surgery to accepted clinical guidelines.Methods: ChatGPT models were prompted with questions from the North American Spine Society (NASS) Evidence-based Clinical Guidelines for Multidisciplinary Spine Care for Antibiotic Prophylaxis in Spine Surgery (2013). Its responses were then compared and assessed for accuracy.Results: Of the 16 NASS guideline questions concerning antibiotic prophylaxis, 10 responses (62.5%) were accurate in ChatGPT’s GPT-3.5 model and 13 (81%) were accurate in GPT-4.0. Twenty-five percent of GPT-3.5 answers were deemed as overly confident while 62.5% of GPT-4.0 answers directly used the NASS guideline as evidence for its response.Conclusion: ChatGPT demonstrated an impressive ability to accurately answer clinical questions. GPT-3.5 model’s performance was limited by its tendency to give overly confident responses and its inability to identify the most significant elements in its responses. GPT-4.0 model’s responses had higher accuracy and cited the NASS guideline as direct evidence many times. While GPT-4.0 is still far from perfect, it has shown an exceptional ability to extract the most relevant research available compared to GPT-3.5. Thus, while ChatGPT has shown far-reaching potential, scrutiny should still be exercised regarding its clinical use at this time.
Deep Learning-Enhanced Hand Grip and Release Test for Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy: Shortening Assessment Duration to 6 Seconds
Authors: Ye Yongyu , Chang Yunbing , Wu Weihao , Liao Tianying , Yu Tao , Chen Chong , Yu Zhengran , Chen Junying , Liang Guoyan
Published: March 2024

Objective: Hand clumsiness and reduced hand dexterity can signal early signs of degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM). While the 10-second grip and release (10-s G&R) test is a common clinical tool for evaluating hand function, a more accessible method is warranted. This study explores the use of deep learning-enhanced hand grip and release test (DL-HGRT) for predicting DCM and evaluates its capability to reduce the duration of the 10-s G&R test.Methods: The retrospective study included 508 DCM patients and 1,194 control subjects. Propensity score matching (PSM) was utilized to minimize the confounding effects related to age and sex. Videos of the 10-s G&R test were captured using a smartphone application. The 3D-MobileNetV2 was utilized for analysis, generating a series of parameters. Additionally, receiver operating characteristic curves were employed to assess the performance of the 10-s G&R test in predicting DCM and to evaluate the effectiveness of a shortened testing duration.Results: Patients with DCM exhibited impairments in most 10-s G&R test parameters. Before PSM, the number of cycles achieved the best diagnostic performance (area under the curve [AUC], 0.85; sensitivity, 80.12%; specificity, 74.29% at 20 cycles), followed by average grip time. Following PSM for age and gender, the AUC remained above 0.80. The average grip time achieved the highest AUC of 0.83 after 6 seconds, plateauing with no significant improvement in extending the duration to 10 seconds, indicating that 6 seconds is an adequate timeframe to efficiently evaluate hand motor dysfunction in DCM based on DL-HGRT.Conclusion: DL-HGRT demonstrates potential as a promising supplementary tool for predicting DCM. Notably, a testing duration of 6 seconds appears to be sufficient for accurate assessment, enhancing the test more feasible and practical without compromising diagnostic performance.
Deep Learning-Assisted Quantitative Measurement of Thoracolumbar Fracture Features on Lateral Radiographs
Authors: Yuh Woon Tak , Khil Eun Kyung , Yoon Yu Sung , Kim Burnyoung , Yoon Hongjun , Lim Jihe , Lee Kyoung Yeon , Yoo Yeong Seo , An Kyeong Deuk
Published: March 2024

Objective: This study aimed to develop and validate a deep learning (DL) algorithm for the quantitative measurement of thoracolumbar (TL) fracture features, and to evaluate its efficacy across varying levels of clinical expertise.Methods: Using the pretrained Mask Region-Based Convolutional Neural Networks model, originally developed for vertebral body segmentation and fracture detection, we fine-tuned the model and added a new module for measuring fracture metrics—compression rate (CR), Cobb angle (CA), Gardner angle (GA), and sagittal index (SI)—from lumbar spine lateral radiographs. These metrics were derived from six-point labeling by 3 radiologists, forming the ground truth (GT). Training utilized 1,000 nonfractured and 318 fractured radiographs, while validations employed 213 internal and 200 external fractured radiographs. The accuracy of the DL algorithm in quantifying fracture features was evaluated against GT using the intraclass correlation coefficient. Additionally, 4 readers with varying expertise levels, including trainees and an attending spine surgeon, performed measurements with and without DL assistance, and their results were compared to GT and the DL model.Results: The DL algorithm demonstrated good to excellent agreement with GT for CR, CA, GA, and SI in both internal (0.860, 0.944, 0.932, and 0.779, respectively) and external (0.836, 0.940, 0.916, and 0.815, respectively) validations. DL-assisted measurements significantly improved most measurement values, particularly for trainees.Conclusion: The DL algorithm was validated as an accurate tool for quantifying TL fracture features using radiographs. DL-assisted measurement is expected to expedite the diagnostic process and enhance reliability, particularly benefiting less experienced clinicians.
A Propensity Score-Matched Cohort Study Comparing 3 Different Spine Pedicle Screw Fixation Methods: Freehand, Fluoroscopy-Guided, and Robot-Assisted Techniques
Authors: Hwang Yoon Ha , Ha Byeong-Jin , Kim Hyung Cheol , Lee Byung Ho , Park Jeong-Yoon , Chin Dong-Kyu , Yi Seong
Published: March 2024

Objective: This study aimed to compare the accuracy of robotic spine surgery and conventional pedicle screw fixation in lumbar degenerative disease. We evaluated clinical and radiological outcomes to demonstrate the noninferiority of robotic surgery.Methods: This study employed propensity score matching and included 3 groups: robot-assisted mini-open posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) (robotic surgery, RS), c-arm guided minimally invasive surgery transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (C-arm guidance, CG), and freehand open PLIF (free of guidance, FG) (54 patients each). The mean follow-up period was 2.2 years. The preoperative spine condition was considered. Accuracy was evaluated using the Gertzbein-Robbins scale (GRS score) and Babu classification (Babu score). Radiological outcomes included adjacent segmental disease (ASD) and mechanical failure. Clinical outcomes were assessed based on the visual analogue scale, Oswestry Disability Index, 36-item Short Form health survey, and clinical ASD rate.Results: Accuracy was higher in the RS group (p < 0.01) than in other groups. The GRS score was lower in the CG group, whereas the Babu score was lower in the FG group compared with the RS group. No significant differences were observed in radiological and clinical outcomes among the 3 groups. Regression analysis identified preoperative facet degeneration, GRS and Babu scores as significant variables for radiological and clinical ASD. Mechanical failure was influenced by the GRS score and patients’ age.Conclusion: This study showed the superior accuracy of robotic spine surgery compared with conventional techniques. When combined with minimally invasive surgery, robotic surgery is advantageous with reduced ligament and muscle damage associated with traditional open procedures.
Acute Pancreatitis Revealing a Diagnosis of Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Herman Tessa , Wilson Natalie , Abdallah Mohamed , Bilal Mohammad , Nemat Hashim
Published: March 2024

Acute pancreatitis is a common gastroenterological condition that can occur due to several causes. While not required for diagnosis, imaging is often performed and may reveal unexpected findings such as pancreatic masses. Malignancies such as lymphoma are uncommon causes of acute pancreatitis, especially as the initial presentation of malignancy. We present a case of a young patient with acute pancreatitis caused by diffuse large B-cell lymphoma with extranodal disease secondarily involving the pancreas. Our case highlights the importance of keeping a broad differential for acute pancreatitis and considering rare etiologies such as pancreatic lymphoma in patients without another obvious culprit.
A multicenter study of maternal conditions and amniotic fluid volume in Ethiopia in 2023
Authors: Erega Besfat Berihun , Ferede Wassie Yazie , Sisay Fillorenes Ayalew , Ayalew Abeba Belay , Arage Rahel Birhanu
Published: March 2024

The amniotic fluid is a protective liquid found in amniotic found in the amniotic sac and mainly containing water and some solid substances including epitheloid and fibroblastic type cells. Most of the studies conducted about amniotic fluid volume (AFV) reported fetal and placental factors as a determinant of AFV. The aim of this study is to examine maternal and obstetric conditions in relation to AFV among women with term pregnancies. A multicenter institutional based cross‐sectional study was conducted among clients attending selected public hospitals of South Gondar Zone, Ethiopia from January 01, 2023 to May 30, 2023. The sample size was calculated by using the assumption of single population proportion formula considering the prevalence value of 50%, 95% confidence interval, and margin of error 5% and 10% non respondent rate. In our study rural residency AOR = 3.21 (1.19–5.37), chronic illness AOR = 2.12 (1.33–4.61), short inter pregnancy interval AOR = 3.03 (2.18–6.28), Hypermesis gravidarum AOR = 1.19 (1.02–4.41), and maternal diabetics AOR = 2.16 (1.32–4.75) had significant association with the outcome variable. These maternal conditions may be correlated with an abnormal volume of amniotic fluid.
Why Privation Is a Form in a Qualified Sense for Aristotle
Authors: Cummings-Coughlin Cara Rei
Published: March 2024

In Aristotle’s account of change, lacking a form is called privation (Physics I.7 191a14). For example, someone takes on the form of being musical only from previously having the privation of being unmusical. However, he also states that “shape and nature are spoken of in two ways, for the privation too is in a way form” (Physics II.1 193b19). I will demonstrate that these seemingly contradictory statements are not actually in tension. Since all perceptible matter must be enformed, we would have trouble discussing things that have yet to undergo generation, like menstrual fluid, and things that have undergone corruption, like corpses, if we did not cite the privation as a sort of form. I will argue that, given his commitment to hylomorphism, Aristotle is committed to privation being a form in a qualified sense. It cannot be a form in an unqualified sense because privation often spoils the matter such that it can no longer be reformed. The fact of the matter is we cannot draw a bright line between privation and form because the two are contraries and can be said to hold to different degrees at different points on a spectrum.
Green synthesis and multifaceted characterization of iron oxide nanoparticles derived from Senna bicapsularis for enhanced in vitro and in vivo biological investigation
Authors: Ahmad Zubair , Rauf Abdur , Zhang Haiyuan , Ibrahim Muhammad , Muhammad Naveed , Al-Awthan Yahya S. , Bahattab Omar S.
Published: March 2024

Iron oxide nanoparticles have garnered significant interest in recent years due to their diverse applications, particularly in the therapeutic field. We present a green synthesis method using the extract of Senna bicapsularis, the production of iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs). The successful synthesis of IONPs was confirmed by UV–visible spectroscopy, revealing the characteristic peak at 295 nm. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy were employed to elucidate the functional groups involved in the synthesis and characterize the morphological features of the nanoparticles. Subsequently, the synthesized IONPs were subjected to biological assays to assess their anticancer, enzyme inhibitory, analgesic, and sedative activities, following standardized protocols. The IONPs exhibited potent anticancer activity against the MDR 2780AD cell line, with IC50 values of 0.85 (extract) and 0.55 (iron oxide nanoparticles). Remarkable inhibitory effects were also observed against urease (IC50 = 12.98 ± 0.98) and xanthine oxidase (IC50 = 96.09 ± 0.65). Additionally, they demonstrated moderate carbonic anhydrase II inhibition, with 42.09% inhibition at a concentration of 0.25 mM. Furthermore, the extract and IONPs demonstrated a significant analgesic effect in a dose-dependent manner, while the sedative effect was also significant (p < 0.001).
Comparison of polymerase chain reaction and next-generation sequencing with conventional urine culture for the diagnosis of urinary tract infections: A meta-analysis
Authors: Zhao Meng , Qi Shuang , Sun Yinuo , Zheng Xue
Published: March 2024

The limitations of conventional urine culture methods can be avoided by using culture-independent approaches like polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and next-generation sequencing (NGS). However, the efficacy of these approaches in this setting is still subject to contention. PRISMA-compliant searches were performed on MEDLINE/PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Sciences, and the Cochrane Database until March 2023. The included articles compared PCR or NGS to conventional urine culture for the detection of urinary tract infections (UTIs). RevMan performed meta-analysis, and the Cochrane Risk of Bias Assessment Tool assessed study quality. A total of 10 selected studies that involved 1,291 individuals were included in this meta-analysis. The study found that PCR has a 99% sensitivity and a 94% specificity for diagnosing UTIs. Furthermore, NGS was shown to have a sensitivity of 90% for identifying UTIs and a specificity of 86%. The odds ratio (OR) for PCR to detect Gram-positive bacteria is 0.50 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.41–0.61), while the OR for NGS to detect Gram-negative bacteria is 0.23 [95% CI 0.09–0.59]. UTIs are typically caused by Gram-negative bacteria like Escherichia coli and Gram-positive bacteria like Staphylococci and Streptococci. PCR and NGS are reliable, culture-free molecular diagnostic methods that, despite being expensive, are essential for UTI diagnosis and prevention due to their high sensitivity and specificity.
Secreted frizzled-related protein 5 protects against renal fibrosis by inhibiting Wnt/β-catenin pathway
Authors: Deng Dai , Tian Dongli , Wang Yahui , Bai Yu , Diao Zongli , Liu Wenhu
Published: March 2024

Renal fibrosis (RF) is an important pathogenesis for renal function deterioration in chronic kidney disease. Secreted frizzled-related protein 5 (SFRP5) is an anti-fibrotic adipokine but its direct role on RF remains unknown. It was aimed to study the protective effect of SFRP5 against RF and interference with Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway for the first time. First, the therapeutic efficacy of SFRP5 was evaluated by adenovirus overexpression in rats with unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) in vivo. Thirty-six rats were randomly divided into the sham, UUO, and SFRP5 (UUO + Ad-SFRP5) groups. Half rats in each group were selected at random for euthanasia at 7 days and the others until 14 days. Then, the transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1-induced epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) was established in HK-2 cells in vitro. The cells were divided into four groups: the control group, the TGF-β1 group, the TGF-β1 + SFRP5 group, and the TGF-β1 + SFRP5 + anti-SFRP5 group. The makers of EMT and Wnt/β‐catenin pathway proteins were investigated. In the UUO model, expression of SFRP5 showed compensatory upregulation, and adenoviral-mediated SFRP5 over-expression remarkably attenuated RF, as demonstrated by maintenance of E-cadherin and suppression of α-smooth muscle actin (SMA). In vitro, SFRP5 was shown to inhibit TGF-β1-mediated positive regulation of α-SMA, fibronectin, collagen I but negative regulation of E-cadherin. Furthermore, SFRP5 abrogated activation of Wnt/β-catenin, which was the essential pathway in EMT and RF pathogenesis. The changes after a neutralizing antibody to SFRP5 confirmed the specificity of SFRP5 for inhibition. These findings suggest that SFRP5 can directly ameliorate EMT and protect against RF by inhibiting Wnt/β-catenin pathway.
Dreaming of a Jewish Democracy: Sammy Gronemann as High Judge and Chief Architect of the Pre-State Zionist Judiciary (1911–1946)
Authors: Kühne Jan
Published: March 2024

This article explores the history of the pre-state Zionist judiciary, focusing on Sammy Gronemann’s instrumental role as its high judge and chief architect from 1911 to 1946. In doing so, it addresses a significant gap in existing research. Despite extensive attention that has been paid to his contributions to German and Hebrew literature, Gronemann’s legal profession and judicial endeavors within the World Zionist Organization (WZO) have been largely overlooked in academic discourse. To provide context and illuminate Gronemann’s influential role, the first section of this article offers a concise historical account of the pre-state Zionist judiciary’s genesis. The second section delves into Gronemann’s disillusionment and suppressed critique of the WZO’s democratization initiatives. This is evident in his private writings, including a hitherto unknown letter correspondence with Theodor Heuss, the first president of West Germany. The exploration undertaken unveils the moral authority of Gronemann as representative of the institutionalized Zionist conscience, a role he embodied as the chief judge and architect of the Zionist pre-state judiciary.
Novel integrated structure and function of Mg–Gd neutron shielding materials
Authors: Le Yunlin , She Jia , Mao Jianjun , Jing Xuerui , Yang Jijun , Meng Xianfang , Tan Jun , Wu Lu , Zhang Wei , Yang Wenchao , Pang Xingzhi , Pan Fusheng
Published: March 2024

As the lightest metal structural materials, magnesium (Mg) alloys offer extensive application potential. Gadolinium (Gd), as the primary alloying element in Mg alloys and recognized for its notable thermal neutron capture cross-section, is considered one of the most efficient neutron absorbers. Thus, the Mg–Gd alloy is highly expected to emerge as a material with remarkable neutron absorption capacity. Hence, in this study, the thermal neutron-shielding capabilities of Mg–Gd alloys were comprehensively examined by fabricating four as-cast Mg–xGd alloys with varying compositions (x = 0, 5, 10, and 15 wt%). The obtained results were further corroborated by sophisticated modeling and calculations using SuperMC. The results revealed a direct correlation between the thermal neutron absorption capacity of the Mg–Gd alloys and the increase in Gd content, with a noteworthy neutron attenuation factor of 22.33. Moreover, in an Au ion irradiation experiment conducted at 200°C, the Mg–15Gd alloy exhibited exceptional radiation resistance, with a displacement per atom (dpa) of 10. The matrix and second-phase regions were devoid of any cavity formation. Instead, a finite number of dislocation rings were observed, forming both leaf-like and granular Gd-rich nanoscale precipitates. This study underscores the versatility of Mg–Gd alloys as efficient neutron shielding materials and structural materials tailored for applications demanding radiation resistance in diverse environments.
KSR1 knockout mouse model demonstrates MAPK pathway's key role in cisplatin- and noise-induced hearing loss
Authors: Ingersoll Matthew A. , Lutze Richard D. , Kelmann Regina G. , Kresock Daniel F. , Marsh Jordan D. , Quevedo Rene V. , Zuo Jian , Teitz Tal
Published: March 2024

Hearing loss is a major disability in everyday life and therapeutic interventions to protect hearing would benefit a large portion of the world population. Here we found that mice devoid of the protein kinase suppressor of RAS 1 (KSR1) in their tissues (germline KO mice) exhibit resistance to both cisplatin- and noise-induced permanent hearing loss compared to their wild-type KSR1 littermates. KSR1 is a scaffold protein that brings in proximity the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) proteins BRAF, MEK1/2 and ERK1/2 and assists in their activation through a phosphorylation cascade induced by both cisplatin and noise insults in the cochlear cells. KSR1, BRAF, MEK1/2, and ERK1/2 are all ubiquitously expressed in the cochlea. Deleting the KSR1 protein tempered down the MAPK phosphorylation cascade in the cochlear cells following both cisplatin and noise insults and conferred hearing protection of up to 30 dB SPL in three tested frequencies in male and female mice. Treatment with dabrafenib, an FDA-approved oral BRAF inhibitor, protected male and female KSR1 wild-type mice from both cisplatin- and noise-induced hearing loss. Dabrafenib treatment did not enhance the protection of KO KSR1 mice, providing evidence dabrafenib works primarily through the MAPK pathway. Thus, either elimination of the KSR1 gene expression or drug inhibition of the MAPK cellular pathway in mice resulted in profound protection from both cisplatin- and noise-induce hearing loss. Inhibition of the MAPK pathway, a cellular pathway that responds to damage in the cochlear cells, can prove a valuable strategy to protect and treat hearing loss.

Significance StatementTen percent of the world population suffers from hearing loss but this impairment may be preventable. We show that mice devoid of the KSR1 protein (KO) exhibit resistance to cisplatin- and noise-induced permanent hearing loss compared to wild-type littermates that harbor the protein. Removing KSR1 tempers down the MAPK phosphorylation cascade of BRAF-MEK-ERK induced in the cochlea following cisplatin and noise insults. Treatment of KSR1 wild-type mice following cisplatin or noise with an FDA-approved BRAF inhibitor, dabrafenib, protected the hearing and, importantly, did not confer additional protection to the KO KSR1 mice. Hence, the MAPK pathway has a unique role in responding to cochlear damage and removing KSR1 gene expression or drug inhibition of the pathway results in hearing protection.
Developing productive metaphoric competence through a frame-inspired task-based teaching model
Authors:   Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece, Dalpanagioti Thomai
Published: March 2024

The paper reports preliminary findings from applying a frame-inspired task-based approach to metaphor teaching in an EFL classroom. The teaching model used combines Frame Semantics, a cognitive linguistic theory that takes a usage-based view of meaning, with Task-Based Language Teaching, which emphasizes second/foreign language learning through interactionally authentic language use. In this paper we examine students’ productions in terms of the amount, type and function of metaphor use with a view to identifying the stages the students went through in developing their metaphoric competence in L2 writing. We illustrate how their metaphor awareness skills seem to develop along a continuum from non-deliberate isolated figurative instances to deliberate extended metaphor used as a conceptual and discursive framework for their writing. We thus provide preliminary evidence for the effectiveness of the proposed frame-inspired task-based approach to metaphor teaching.
A new understanding of metaphors: From collective data to individual cases
Authors:   University of Campinas, Brazil, Siman Josie Helen , Oliveira da Motta Sampaio Thiago ,   University of Campinas, Brazil
Published: March 2024

Most theories on metaphor processing are categorical, focus on semantics, and ignore important empirical findings. In this paper, we show how complex systems science can help us understand the apparently contradictory findings in the literature. We claim that metaphors are best understood as processed by the dynamic interaction between different factors, with dynamically shifting weights, in different time scales. To understand what a metaphor means, we must consider the multidimensional aspects of meaning: a) schemas, frames, scenarios, etc.; b) attributes (e.g., big, cruel, etc.); c) phenomenological schemas (e.g., mappings of visceral sensations); d) valence (positive, neutral, negative), etc. These constructs are not an object in the mind or the same for everyone. They are formed by experiences — with some overlaps, depending on people’s sharing of cultural and embodied similarities. We never know how one person will interpret a metaphor but can make informed guesses based on empirical findings.
A spiderweb of human trafficking: An empirical linguistic study
Authors:   Borys Grinchenko Kyiv Metropolitan University, Ukraine, Paliichuk Elina
Published: March 2024

The state of the art in human trafficking (HT) prevention requires the elaboration of subtle verbal techniques that can enhance informative awareness campaigns. The paper explores the representations of metaphors in the media about HT through the SPIDERWEB construal and its impact on the youth in Ukraine. Compared to previous decades (Paliichuk 2011), the SPIDERWEB metaphor can be observed more frequently in recent publications, encouraging the study of whether it contributes to a stronger reader response. The methods embrace conceptual analysis and an experiment, in which 60 undergraduates (grouped into G1, G2, and G3) took part. Four media fragments were used in three modes: authentic (A), weakened (W), and enhanced (E). In total, twelve variables were tested. The Paired Samples T Test revealed the changes in student post-reading perceptions, with the highest response to E texts (identifying oneself with trafficked persons; imagining oneself being in the same situation; imagining sounds/voices; being emotionally affected). Used for the differences between A–W; A–E; and W–E, the Independent Samples T Test revealed higher degrees for imagining oneself being enslaved in the HT situation; being secluded or isolated; emotionally affected; and being more careful about personal safety, which points to the feasibility of designing anti-trafficking educational content based on the SPIDERWEB metaphor.
Karakterisasi Sifat Penyerapan Nata de Coco Kering Terpadatkan Terhadap Bolu
Authors: Rahmayanti Handika Dany , Ardiani Septia , Akmalia Nurul , Kartika Tipri Rose , Suryani Meuthia
Published: March 2024

Pada penelitian ini kami mensintesis nata de coco (NDC) dengan metode standar. Kemampuan daya serap air (absorbsi) dari NDC kering terpadatkan ini juga kami selidiki. Pada pengujian absorbs kami juga membandingkan dengan NDC komersial yang ada di pasaran. Guna mengetahui prospek komersial, absorsivitas air silika gel juga diuji. Dari hasil pengujian menunjukkan bahwa NDC kering terpadatkan mampu menyerap kelembaban air yang sebanding dengan absorpsivitas silika gel komersial. Ketiga merek NDC yakni NDC pada sampel merek B, C, dan F menunjukkan penyerapan lebih tinggi dibandingkan silika gel dan nilai ini terus mengalami kenaikan mulai hari ke-1 sampai hari ke-5. Jumlah air yang terserap oleh sampel nata de coco pada hari ke-5 yakni sebesar 15,087% (B); 21,86% (C) dan 22,664% (F). Nilai ini lebih besar bila dibandingkan penyerapan oleh silika gel pada bolu yakni sebesar 15,532%. Dari hasil tersebut maka dapat disimpulkan bahwa nata de coco mempunyai daya serap yang cukup tinggi.
KARAKTERISTIK ENERGI GAP (Eg) KOMPOSIT ZnO/KARBON AKTIF DARI TANDAN SAWIT(Elaeis guineensis Jack)) UNTUK APLIKASI SEL SURYA
Authors: Wati Rahma , Fadlly Teuku Andi , Harmawan Tisna
Published: March 2024

Characteristics energy gap (Eg) composite ZnO/activated carbon from palm bunches (Elaeis guineensis Jack) for solar cell applications have been made. Zinc Oxide or ZnO is an n-type semiconductor having an Eg of 3.37 eV. This is an alternative material that attracts attention to be applied to solar cell devices. Commercial ZnO powder is used and activated carbon from Empty Fruit Bunch (TKS). The formation of activated carbon from the TKS was carried out by chemical activation and carbonization methods at 600 Â° C for 1 hour. Composite ZnO / activated carbon from TKS will be done by the method of solid state. Variations in activated carbon from the TKS varied 0, 15, 30, 45 wt.%. The composite was tested by Uv-Vis to produce a graph (hvÎ±) Â½ vs hv (eV). The graph gives the characteristics of Eg ZnO / activated carbon composite by Tauc, s plot method. The results produced the lowest Eg in the ZnO / C 45 wt.% Composite, which was 3.20 eV. Increasing activated carbon in ZnO / activated carbon composites decreases the value of Eg.Â
Interference Management Based on Clustering Method for Ultra-Dense Networks in Multicellular Network
Authors: Gumilang Alisha Gita , Susanto Misfa , Fitriawan Helmy
Published: March 2024

One of solutions to address the increasing demands for data traffic by mobile users is to implement ultra dense network (UDN). UDN consists of many femtocells that are densely deployed on macrocellular communication networks. Since femtocells radius is very short and they are tightly packed, it faces interferences problem i.e., co-tier and cross-tier interferences. This paper proposes interference management technique based on clustering method for UDN multicellular communication networks at downlink transmission. It is purposed to reduce interference effects. To evaluate the proposed clustering method, two simulation scenarios have been designed; namely baseline system and system with the proposed clustering method. The scenarios applied is to randomly distribute femtocells following a uniform distribution in three macrocells areas. Through a clustering algorithm, adjacent femtocells are grouped into one cluster and assigned different frequency channels for each femtocell in that cluster. The same cluster pattern is repeated for all femtocells. Thus, interference effect is canceled within one cluster and reduced among clusters by widening the distance among femtocells that use the same frequency channels. Through simulation experiment, the proposed clustering method is evaluated and compared to the baseline system. The simulation results show that Signal to Interference plus Noise Ratio (SINR) of femtocells increases 0.44 dB, throughput increases 1.67%, Bit Error Rate (BER) reduces, and other parameters improve as well which include spectral efficiency, network energy, and average network energy. The proposed clustering method increases performances of the networks and provides better solution for transmission data speed in densely femtocell network.