bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fast and accurate joint inference of coancestry parameters for populations and/or individuals
Authors: Mary-Huard Tristan , Balding David
Published: January 2023

We introduce a fast, new algorithm for inferring from allele count data the FST parameters describing genetic distances among a set of populations and/or unrelated diploid individuals, and a tree with branch lengths corresponding to FST values. The tree can reflect historical processes of splitting and divergence, but seeks to represent the actual genetic variance as accurately as possible with a tree structure. We generalise two major approaches to defining FST, via correlations and mismatch probabilities of sampled allele pairs, which measure shared and non-shared components of genetic variance. A diploid individual can be treated as a population of two gametes, which allows inference of coancestry coefficients for individuals as well as for populations, or a combination of the two. A simulation study illustrates that our fast method-of-moments estimation of FST values, simultaneously for multiple populations/individuals, gains statistical efficiency over pairwise approaches when the population structure is close to tree-like. We apply our approach to genome-wide genotypes from the 26 worldwide human populations of the 1000 Genomes Project. We first analyse at the population level, then a subset of individuals and in a final analysis we pool individuals from the more homogeneous populations. This flexible analysis approach gives advantages over traditional approaches to population structure/coancestry, including visual and quantitative assessments of long-standing questions about the relative magnitudes of within- and between-population genetic differences.
An atypical NLR protein modulates the NRC immune receptor network in Nicotiana benthamiana
Authors: Adachi Hiroaki , Sakai Toshiyuki , Harant Adeline , Pai Hsuan , Honda Kodai , Toghani AmirAli , Claeys Jules , Duggan Cian , Bozkurt Tolga O. , Wu Chih-hang , Kamoun Sophien
Published: January 2023

The NRC immune receptor network has evolved in asterid plants from a pair of linked genes into a genetically dispersed and phylogenetically structured network of sensor and helper NLR (nucleotide-binding domain and leucine-rich repeat-containing) proteins. In some species, such as the model plant Nicotiana benthamiana and other Solanaceae, the NRC (NLR-REQUIRED FOR CELL DEATH) network forms up to half of the NLRome, and NRCs are scattered throughout the genome in gene clusters of varying complexities. Here, we describe NRCX, an atypical member of the NRC family that lacks canonical features of these NLR helper proteins, such as a functional N-terminal MADA motif and the capacity to trigger autoimmunity. In contrast to other NRCs, systemic gene silencing of NRCX in N. benthamiana markedly impairs plant growth resulting in a dwarf phenotype. Remarkably, dwarfism of NRCX silenced plants is partially dependent on NRCX paralogs NRC2 and NRC3, but not NRC4. Despite its negative impact on plant growth when silenced systemically, spot gene silencing of NRCX in mature N. benthamiana leaves doesn’t result in visible cell death phenotypes. However, alteration of NRCX expression modulates the hypersensitive response mediated by NRC2 and NRC3 in a manner consistent with a negative role for NRCX in the NRC network. We conclude that NRCX is an atypical member of the NRC network that has evolved to contribute to the homeostasis of this genetically unlinked NLR network.
Altered energy metabolism in Fatal Familial Insomnia cerebral organoids is associated with astrogliosis and neuronal dysfunction
Authors: Foliaki Simote T. , Smith Anna , Schwarz Benjamin , Bohrnsen Eric , Bosio Catharine M. , Williams Katie , Orrú Christina D. , Lachenauer Hailey , Groveman Bradley R. , Haigh Cathryn L.
Published: January 2023

Fatal familial insomnia (FFI) is a rare neurodegenerative disease caused by a dominantly inherited single amino acid substitution (D178N) within the prion protein (PrP). No in vitro human brain tissue model for this disease has previously been available. Consequently, how this mutation exerts its damaging effect on brain cells is still unknown. Using CRISPR-Cas9 engineered induced pluripotent stem cells, we made D178N cerebral organoids and compared these with isotype control organoids. We found that, in the absence of other hallmarks of FFI, the D178N organoids exhibited astrogliosis with cellular oxidative stress. Abnormal post-translational processing of PrP was evident but no tissue deposition or propagation of mis-folded PrP isoforms were observed. Neuronal electrophysiological function was compromised and levels of neurotransmitters, particularly acetylcholine and GABA, altered. Underlying these dysfunctions were changes in cellular energy homeostasis, with substantially increased glycolytic and Krebs cycle intermediates, and greater mitochondrial activity. This increased energy demand in D178N organoids was associated with increased mitophagy and depletion of lipid droplets, in turn resulting in shifts of cellular lipid composition. Using a double mutation (178NN) we could confirm that most changes were caused by the presence of the mutation rather than interaction with PrP molecules lacking the mutation. Our data strongly suggests that shifting biosynthetic intermediates and oxidative stress, caused by an imbalance of energy supply and demand, results in astrogliosis with compromised neuronal activity in FFI organoids. They further support that many of the disease associated changes are due to a corruption of PrP function and do not require propagation of PrP mis-folding.
Wastewater-based monitoring of SARS-CoV-2 at UK airports and its potential role in international public health surveillance
Authors: Farkas Kata , Williams Rachel , Alex-Sanders Natasha , Grimsley Jasmine M. S. , Pântea Igor , Wade Matthew J. , Woodhall Nick , Jones Davey L.
Published: January 2023

It is well established that air travel plays a key role in the global spread of many enteric and respiratory diseases, including COVID-19. Even with travel restrictions (e.g. mask wearing, negative COVID-19 test prior to departure), SARS-CoV-2 may be transmitted by asymptomatic or pre-symptomatic individuals carrying the virus. Due to the limitation of current clinical surveillance approaches, complementary methods need to be developed to allow estimation of the frequency of SARS-CoV-2 entry across international borders. Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) represents one such approach, allowing the unbiased sampling of SARS-CoV-2 carriage by passenger cohorts entering via airports. In this study, we monitored sewage in samples from terminals (n = 150) and aircraft (n = 32) at three major international airports in the UK for 1–3 weeks in March 2022. As the raw samples were more turbid than typical municipal wastewater, we used beef extract treatment followed by polyethylene glycol (PEG) precipitation to concentrate viruses, followed by reverse transcription quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 and a faecal indicator virus, crAssphage. All samples taken from sewers at the arrival terminals of Heathrow and Bristol airports, and 85% of samples taken from sites at Edinburgh airport, were positive for SARS-CoV-2. This suggests a high COVID-19 prevalence among passengers and/or airport staff members. Samples derived from aircraft also showed 93% SARS-CoV-2 positivity. No difference in viral prevalence was found before and after COVID-19 travel restrictions were lifted. Our results suggest that WBE is a useful tool for monitoring the global transfer rate of human pathogens and other disease-causing agents across international borders and should form part of wider international efforts to monitor and contain the spread of future disease outbreaks.
Environmental enteric dysfunction and small intestinal histomorphology of stunted children in Bangladesh
Authors: Hossain Md. Shabab , Begum S. M. Khodeza Nahar , Rahman M Masudur , Parvez Mashud , Mazumder Ramendra Nath , Sarker Shafiqul Alam , Hasan Md. Mehedi , Fahim Shah Mohammad , Gazi Md. Amran , Das Subhasish , Mahfuz Mustafa , Ahmed Tahmeed
Published: January 2023

There is lack of information on the histological characteristics of the intestinal mucosa in Bangladeshi children. Collection of intestinal biopsy samples and assessment of the histomorphological features is considered to be the traditional gold standard for diagnosis of environmental enteric dysfunction (EED). The purpose of the study was to evaluate the intestinal histological characteristics of stunted children aged between 12–18 months with possible EED. 110 children with chronic malnutrition (52 stunted with length-for-age Z score, LAZ<-2 and 58 at risk of stunting with LAZ <-1 to -2) from the Bangladesh Environmental Enteric Dysfunction (BEED) study protocol who underwent upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy were selected for this study. To explore the association of EED with childhood stunting, upper GI endoscopy was done and the biopsy specimens were studied for histopathology. Villous height and crypt depth were measured and the presence and intensity of inflammatory infiltrates in the lamina propria was investigated. Bivariate analysis was performed to examine the relationship between stunting and histologic morphology. More than 90% children irrespective of nutritional status were diagnosed to have chronic non-specific duodenitis on histopathology. Half of the children from both groups had villous atrophy as well as crypt hyperplasia and lymphocytic infiltration was present in more than 90% children, irrespective of groups. However, no statistically significant difference was observed when compared between the groups. The prevalence of chronic non-specific duodenitis in Bangladeshi children, irrespective of nutritional status, was high. A significant number of these children had abnormal findings in intestinal histomorphology.

Trial registration number: ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT02812615 Date of first registration: 24/06/2016. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/results?cond=NCT02812615&term=&cntry=&state=&city=&dist.
Understanding perceptions of schistosomiasis and its control among highly endemic lakeshore communities in Mayuge, Uganda
Authors: Mujumbusi Lazaaro , Nalwadda Edith , Ssali Agnes , Pickering Lucy , Seeley Janet , Meginnis Keila , Lamberton Poppy H. L.
Published: January 2023

Background

Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease and a serious global-health problem with over 230 million people requiring treatment, of which the majority live in Africa. In Uganda, over 4 million people are infected. Extensive parasitological data exist on infection prevalence, intensities and the impact of repeated praziquantel mass drug administration (MDA). However, how perceptions of schistosomiasis shape prevention and treatment practices and their implications for control measures are much less well understood.

Methods

Rapid ethnographic appraisals were performed for six weeks in each of three Schistosoma mansoni high endemicity communities on the shores of Lake Victoria, Mayuge District, Uganda. Data were collected between September 2017 and April 2018. Data were collected through structured observations, transect walks, and participant observation, and sixty in-depth interviews and 19 focus group discussions with purposively recruited participants. Data were analyzed thematically using iterative categorization, looking at five key areas: perceptions of 1) the symptoms of schistosomiasis; 2) the treatment of schistosomiasis; 3) how schistosomiasis is contracted; 4) how schistosomiasis is transmitted onwards and responsibilities associated with this; and 5) how people can prevent infection and/or onward transmission.

Results

Observations revealed open defecation is a common practice in all communities, low latrine coverage compared to the population, and all communities largely depend on lake water and contact it on a daily basis. Perceptions that a swollen stomach was a sign/symptom of ‘ekidada’ (caused by witchcraft) resulted in some people rejecting free praziquantel in favour of herbal treatment from traditional healers at a fee. Others rejected praziquantel because of its perceived side effects. People who perceived that schistosomiasis is caught from drinking unboiled lake water did not seek to minimize skin contact with infected water sources. Community members had varied perceptions about how one can catch and transmit schistosomiasis and these perceptions affect prevention and treatment practices. Open defecation and urinating in the lake were considered the main route of transmission, all communities attributed blame for transmission to the fishermen which was acknowledged by some fishermen. And, lastly, schistosomiasis was considered hard to prevent due to lack of access to safe water.

Conclusion

Despite over 15 years of MDA and associated education, common misconceptions surrounding schistosomiasis exist. Perceptions people have about schistosomiasis profoundly shape not only prevention but also treatment practices, greatly reducing intervention uptake. Therefore, we advocate for a contextualized health education programme, alongside MDA, implementation of improved access to safe-water and sanitation and continued research.
TriTrypDB: An integrated functional genomics resource for kinetoplastida
Authors: Shanmugasundram Achchuthan , Starns David , Böhme Ulrike , Amos Beatrice , Wilkinson Paul A. , Harb Omar S. , Warrenfeltz Susanne , Kissinger Jessica C. , McDowell Mary Ann , Roos David S. , Crouch Kathryn , Jones Andrew R.
Published: January 2023

Parasitic diseases caused by kinetoplastid parasites are a burden to public health throughout tropical and subtropical regions of the world. TriTrypDB (https://tritrypdb.org) is a free online resource for data mining of genomic and functional data from these kinetoplastid parasites and is part of the VEuPathDB Bioinformatics Resource Center (https://veupathdb.org). As of release 59, TriTrypDB hosts 83 kinetoplastid genomes, nine of which, includingTrypanosoma brucei bruceiTREU927,Trypanosoma cruziCL Brener andLeishmania majorFriedlin, undergo manual curation by integrating information from scientific publications, high-throughput assays and user submitted comments. TriTrypDB also integrates transcriptomic, proteomic, epigenomic, population-level and isolate data, functional information from genome-wide RNAi knock-down and fluorescent tagging, and results from automated bioinformatics analysis pipelines. TriTrypDB offers a user-friendly web interface embedded with a genome browser, search strategy system and bioinformatics tools to support customin silicoexperiments that leverage integrated data. A Galaxy workspace enables users to analyze their private data (e.g., RNA-sequencing, variant calling, etc.) and explore their results privately in the context of publicly available information in the database. The recent addition of an annotation platform based on Apollo enables users to provide both functional and structural changes that will appear as ‘community annotations’ immediately and, pending curatorial review, will be integrated into the official genome annotation.
Interdomain dynamics in human Replication Protein A regulates kinetics and thermodynamics of its binding to ssDNA
Authors: Sangeeta  , Bhattacherjee Arnab
Published: January 2023

Human Replication Protein A (hRPA) is a multidomain protein that interacts with ssDNA intermediates to provide the latter much-needed stability during DNA metabolism and maintain genomic integrity. Although the ssDNA organization with hRPA was studied recently through experimental means, characterizing the underlying mechanism at the atomic level remains challenging because of the dynamic domain architecture of hRPA and poorly understood heterogeneity of ssDNA-protein interactions. Here, we used a computational framework, precisely tailored to capture protein-ssDNA interactions, and investigated the binding of hRPA with a 60 nt ssDNA. Two distinct binding mechanisms are realized based on the hRPA domain flexibility. For a rigid domain architecture of hRPA, ssDNA binds sequentially with hRPA domains, resulting in slow association kinetics. The binding pathway involves the formation of stable and distinct intermediate states. On contrary, for a flexible domain architecture of hRPA, ssDNA binds synergistically to the A and B domains followed by the rest of hRPA. The domain dynamics in hRPA alleviates the free energy cost of domain orientation necessary for specific binding with ssDNA, leading to fast association kinetics along a downhill binding free energy landscape. An ensemble of free energetically degenerate intermediate states is encountered that makes it arduous to characterize them structurally. An excellent match between our results with the available experimental observations provides new insights into the rich dynamics of hRPA binding to ssDNA and in general paves the way to investigate intricate details of ssDNA-protein interactions, crucial for cellular functioning.
Rating enrichment items by female group-housed laboratory mice in multiple binary choice tests using an RFID-based tracking system
Authors: Hobbiesiefken Ute , Urmersbach Birk , Jaap Anne , Diederich Kai , Lewejohann Lars
Published: January 2023

Laboratory mice spend most of their lives in cages, not experiments, so improving housing conditions is a first-choice approach to improving their welfare. Despite the increasing popularity of enrichment, little is known about the benefits from an animal perspective. For a detailed analysis, we categorized enrichment items according to their prospective use into the categories ‘structural’, ‘housing’, and ‘foraging’. In homecage-based multiple binary choice tests 12 female C57BL/6J mice chose between enrichment items within the respective categories over a 46-hour period. A new analyzing method combined the binary decisions and ranked the enrichment items within each category by calculating worth values and consensus errors. Although there was no unequivocal ranking that was true in its entire rank order for all individual mice, certain elements (e.g. lattice ball, second plane) were always among the top positions. Overall, a high consensus error in ranking positions reflects strong individual differences in preferences which could not be resolved due to the relatively small sample size. However, individual differences in the preference for enrichment items highlights the importance of a varied enrichment approach, as there does not seem to be one item that satisfies the wants and needs of all individuals to the same degree. An enrichment concept, in which the needs of the animals are central, contributes to a more specific refinement of housing conditions.
Integrated people-centered eye care: A scoping review on engaging communities in eye care in low- and middle-income settings
Authors: Lee Ling , Moo Elise , Angelopoulos Tiffany , Yashadhana Aryati
Published: January 2023

Background

Community engagement has been endorsed as a key strategy to achieving integrated people-centered eye care that enables people and communities to receive a full spectrum of eye care across their life-course. Understanding the ways communities are engaged in eye care, to what degree participation is achieved, and the factors associated with intervention implementation is currently limited.

Objective

The scoping review aimed to assess how community engagement is approached and implemented in eye care interventions in low- and middle-income countries, and to identify the barriers and facilitators associated with intervention implementation.

Methods

Searches were conducted across five databases for peer-reviewed research on eye care interventions engaging communities published in the last ten years (January 2011 to September 2021). Studies were screened, reviewed and appraised according to Cochrane Rapid Reviews methodology. A hybrid deductive-inductive iterative analysis approach was used.

Results

Of 4315 potential studies screened, 73 were included in the review. Studies were conducted across 28 countries and 55 targeted populations across more than one life-course stage. A variety of community actors were engaged in implementation, in four main domains of eye care: health promotion and education; drug and supplement distribution and immunization campaigns; surveillance, screening and detection activities; and referral and pathway navigation. With the approaches and level of participation, the majority of studies were community-based and at best, involved communities, respectively. Involving community actors alone does not guarantee community trust and therefore can impact eye care uptake. Community actors can be integrated into eye care programs, although with varying success. Using volunteers highlighted sustainability issues with maintaining motivation and involvement when resources are limited.

Conclusion

This scoping review provides researchers and policy makers contextual evidence on the breadth of eye care interventions and the factors to be considered when engaging and empowering communities in integrated people-centered eye care programs.
Wheat ergot fungus-derived and modified drug for inhibition of intracranial aneurysm rupture due to dysfunction of TLR-4 receptor in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Debnath Sandip , Sharma Devesh , Chaudhari Somdatta Yashwant , Sharma Ritika , Shaikh Amir Afzal , Buchade Rahul Subhash , Kesari Kavindra Kumar , Abdel-Fattah Abdel-Fattah M. , Algahtani Mohammad , Mheidat Mayyadah , Alsaidalani Rawidh , Paul Tapas , Sayed Amany A. , Abdel-Daim Mohamed M.
Published: January 2023

Background

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a form of dementia that strikes elderly people more frequently than it does younger people. The cognitive skills and memory of Alzheimer’s sufferers continue to deteriorate over time. Recent studies have shown that patients with AD have greater amounts of inflammatory markers in their bodies, which suggests that inflammation occurs early on in the progression of the disease. There is a possibility that Aß oligomers and fibrils can be recognised by TLRs, in addition to the microglial receptors CD14, CD36, and CD47. When Aß binds to either CD36 or TLR4, it sets off a chain reaction of inflammatory chemokines and cytokines that ultimately results in neurodegeneration. Diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease have both been recently related to TLR4. The activation of TLR4 has been connected to a variety of clinical difficulties that are associated with diabetes, in addition to the internal environment of the body and the microenvironment of the brain. TLR4 inhibitors have been shown in clinical investigations to not only lessen the likelihood of getting sick but also to increase the average longevity.

Result

In this work we used molecular docking and molecular dynamics modelling to investigate the effectiveness of FDA-approved antidiabetic plant derived drugs in combating the TLR4 receptor. Molecular docking experiments were used to make a prediction regarding the most important interactions involving 2-Bromoergocryptine Mesylate. With a binding affinity of -8.26 kcal/mol, it stood out from the other candidates as the one with the greatest potential. To verify the interaction pattern that takes place between 2-Bromoergocryptine Mesylate and the TLR4 receptor, a molecular dynamic simulation was run at a time scale of 150 nanoseconds. Because of this, 2-Bromoergocryptine Mesylate was able to make substantial contact with the active site, which led to increased structural stability during the process of the complex’s dynamic development.

Conclusion

As a result of this, the results of our research may be relevant for future research into the efficacy of 2-bromoergocryptine mesylate as a potential lead treatment for TLR4 receptors in intracranial aneurysm rupture in AD.
Apiaceae FNS I originated from F3H through tandem gene duplication
Authors: Pucker Boas , Iorizzo Massimo
Published: January 2023

Background

Flavonoids are specialized metabolites with numerous biological functions in stress response and reproduction of plants. Flavones are one subgroup that is produced by the flavone synthase (FNS). Two distinct enzyme families evolved that can catalyze the biosynthesis of flavones. While the membrane-bound FNS II is widely distributed in seed plants, one lineage of soluble FNS I appeared to be unique to Apiaceae species.

Results

We show through phylogenetic and comparative genomic analyses that Apiaceae FNS I evolved through tandem gene duplication of flavanone 3-hydroxylase (F3H) followed by neofunctionalization. Currently available datasets suggest that this event happened within the Apiaceae in a common ancestor of Daucus carota and Apium graveolens. The results also support previous findings that FNS I in the Apiaceae evolved independent of FNS I in other plant species.

Conclusion

We validated a long standing hypothesis about the evolution of Apiaceae FNS I and predicted the phylogenetic position of this event. Our results explain how an Apiaceae-specific FNS I lineage evolved and confirm independence from other FNS I lineages reported in non-Apiaceae species.
Quantifying the impact of COVID-19 on immigration in receiving high-income countries
Authors: González-Leonardo Miguel , Potančoková Michaela , Yildiz Dilek , Rowe Francisco
Published: January 2023

Previous studies have examined the impact of COVID-19 on mortality and fertility. However, little is known about the effect of the pandemic on constraining international migration. We use Eurostat and national statistics data on immigration and ARIMA time-series models to quantify the impact of COVID-19 on immigration flows in 15 high-income countries by forecasting their counterfactual levels in 2020, assuming no pandemic, and comparing these estimates with observed immigration counts. We then explore potential driving forces, such as stringency measures and increases in unemployment moderating the extent of immigration change. Our results show that immigration declined in all countries, except in Finland. Yet, significant cross-national variations exist. Australia (60%), Spain (45%) and Sweden (36%) display the largest declines, while immigration decreased by between 15% and 30% in seven countries, and by less than 15% in four nations where results were not statistically significant. International travel restrictions, mobility restrictions and stay-at-home requirements exhibit a relatively strong relationship with declines in immigration, although countries with similar levels of stringency witnessed varying levels of immigration decline. Work and school closings and unemployment show no relationship with changes in immigration.
Small-molecule inhibitors of proteasome increase CjCas9 protein stability
Authors: Yaméogo Pouiré , Majeau Nathalie , Mbakam Cedric Happi , Tremblay Jacques P.
Published: January 2023

The small size of CjCas9 can make easier its vectorization for in vivo gene therapy. However, compared to the SpCas9, the CjCas9 is, in general, less efficient to generate indels in target genes. The factors that affect its efficacity are not yet determined. We observed that the CjCas9 protein expressed in HEK293T cells after transfection of this transgene under a CMV promoter was much lower than the SpCas9 protein in the same conditions. We thus evaluated the effect of proteasome inhibitors on CjCas9 protein stability and its efficiency on FXN gene editing. Western blotting showed that the addition of MG132 or bortezomib, significantly increased CjCas9 protein levels in HEK293T and HeLa cells. Moreover, bortezomib increased the level of CjCas9 protein expressed under promoters weaker than CMV such as CBH or EFS but which are specific for certain tissues. Finally, ddPCR quantification showed that bortezomib treatment enhanced CjCas9 efficiency to delete GAA repeat region of FXN gene in HEK293T cells. The improvement of CjCas9 protein stability would facilitate its used in CRISPR/Cas system.
Attitudes, perceptions, and preferences towards SARS CoV-2 testing and vaccination among African American and Hispanic public housing residents, New York City: 2020–2021
Authors: Izeogu Chigozirim , Gill Emily , Van Allen Kaitlyn , Williams Natasha , Thorpe Lorna E. , Shelley Donna
Published: January 2023

Background

African American and Hispanic populations have been affected disproportionately by COVID-19. Reasons are multifactorial and include social and structural determinants of health. During the onset and height of the pandemic, evidence suggested decreased access to SARS CoV-2 testing. In 2020, the National Institutes of Health launched the Rapid Acceleration of Diagnostics (RADx)- Underserved Populations initiative to improve SARS CoV-2 testing in underserved communities. In this study, we explored attitudes, experiences, and barriers to SARS CoV-2 testing and vaccination among New York City public housing residents.

Methods

Between December 2020 and March 2021, we conducted 9 virtual focus groups among 36 low-income minority residents living in New York City public housing.

Results

Among residents reporting a prior SARS CoV-2 test, main reasons for testing were to prepare for a medical procedure or because of a high-risk exposure. Barriers to testing included fear of discomfort from the nasal swab, fear of exposure to COVID-19 while traveling to get tested, concerns about the consequences of testing positive and the belief that testing was not necessary. Residents reported a mistrust of information sources and the health care system in general; they depended more on “word of mouth” for information. The major barrier to vaccination was lack of trust in vaccine safety. Residents endorsed more convenient testing, onsite testing at residential buildings, and home self-test kits. Residents also emphasized the need for language-concordant information sharing and for information to come from “people who look like [them] and come from the same background as [them]”.

Conclusions

Barriers to SARS CoV-2 testing and vaccination centered on themes of a lack of accurate information, fear, mistrust, safety, and convenience. Resident-endorsed strategies to increase testing include making testing easier to access either through home or onsite testing locations. Education and information sharing by trusted members of the community are important tools to combat misinformation and build trust.
Sleep does not influence schema-facilitated motor memory consolidation
Authors: Reverberi Serena , Dolfen Nina , Van Roy Anke , Albouy Genevieve , King Bradley R.
Published: January 2023

Study objectives

Novel information is rapidly learned when it is compatible with previous knowledge. This “schema” effect, initially described for declarative memories, was recently extended to the motor memory domain. Importantly, this beneficial effect was only observed 24 hours–but not immediately–following motor schema acquisition. Given the established role of sleep in memory consolidation, we hypothesized that sleep following the initial learning of a schema is necessary for the subsequent rapid integration of novel motor information.

Methods

Two experiments were conducted to investigate the effect of diurnal and nocturnal sleep on schema-mediated motor sequence memory consolidation. In Experiment 1, participants first learned an 8-element motor sequence through repeated practice (Session 1). They were then afforded a 90-minute nap opportunity (N = 25) or remained awake (N = 25) before learning a second motor sequence (Session 2) which was highly compatible with that learned prior to the sleep/wake interval. Experiment 2 was similar; however, Sessions 1 and 2 were separated by a 12-hour interval that included nocturnal sleep (N = 28) or only wakefulness (N = 29).

Results

For both experiments, we found no group differences in motor sequence performance (reaction time and accuracy) following the sleep/wake interval. Furthermore, in Experiment 1, we found no correlation between sleep features (non-REM sleep duration, spindle and slow wave activity) and post-sleep behavioral performance.

Conclusions

The results of this research suggest that integration of novel motor information into a cognitive-motor schema does not specifically benefit from post-learning sleep.
Complex early childhood experiences: Characteristics of Northern Territory children across health, education and child protection data
Authors: Roper Lucinda , He Vincent Yaofeng , Perez-Concha Oscar , Guthridge Steven
Published: January 2023

Early identification of vulnerable children to protect them from harm and support them in achieving their long-term potential is a community priority. This is particularly important in the Northern Territory (NT) of Australia, where Aboriginal children are about 40% of all children, and for whom the trauma and disadvantage experienced by Aboriginal Australians has ongoing intergenerational impacts. Given that shared social determinants influence child outcomes across the domains of health, education and welfare, there is growing interest in collaborative interventions that simultaneously respond to outcomes in all domains. There is increasing recognition that many children receive services from multiple NT government agencies, however there is limited understanding of the pattern and scale of overlap of these services. In this paper, NT health, education, child protection and perinatal datasets have been linked for the first time. The records of 8,267 children born in the NT in 2006–2009 were analysed using a person-centred analytic approach. Unsupervised machine learning techniques were used to discover clusters of NT children who experience different patterns of risk. Modelling revealed four or five distinct clusters including a cluster of children who are predominantly ill and experience some neglect, a cluster who predominantly experience abuse and a cluster who predominantly experience neglect. These three, high risk clusters all have low school attendance and together comprise 10–15% of the population. There is a large group of thriving children, with low health needs, high school attendance and low CPS contact. Finally, an unexpected cluster is a modestly sized group of non-attendees, mostly Aboriginal children, who have low school attendance but are otherwise thriving. The high risk groups experience vulnerability in all three domains of health, education and child protection, supporting the need for a flexible, rather than strictly differentiated response. Interagency cooperation would be valuable to provide a suitably collective and coordinated response for the most vulnerable children.
Dairy farmers' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding the brucellosis surveillance and control program in Bogor, Indonesia
Authors: Kustiningsih Heris , Sudarnika Etih , Basri Chaerul , Sudarwanto Mirnawati
Published: January 2023

Background and Aim: Brucellosis is an infectious and zoonotic disease that affects people's health and the economy in most countries. Brucellosis is still prevalent in several Indonesian regions. This study aimed to analyze the correlation between the characteristics, knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of dairy farmers in Bogor District in supporting brucellosis control and surveillance programs.

Materials and Methods: The study was cross-sectional. Data were collected through interviews with 151 dairy farmers in Bogor Regency, West Java, Indonesia. The outcome is brucellosis surveillance and control practice among dairy farmers, and the variables include individual characteristics, knowledge, and attitudes toward brucellosis surveillance and control. Descriptive analysis and path analysis were used in statistical analysis.

Results: The majority of farmers' knowledge, attitudes and practices were moderate, with the percentages 67.55%, 60.92%, and 41.72% respectively. Formal education, training, and dairy rising length are variables that have a direct and significant impact on knowledge level. Knowledge is the variable that influences the overall level of attitude. Age, knowledge, and attitude are factors that influence the practice of brucellosis surveillance and control.

Conclusion: Although the practice level of brucellosis surveillance and control for dairy farmers in Bogor Regency is moderate, efforts to improve it are still required. The basic effort is critical for increasing farmers' knowledge.
Investigation of Secondary School Students' Strategies for Solving Routine and Non-Routine Problems
Authors: OR Merve Buse , BAL Ayten Pınar
Published: January 2023

The aim of this study is to determine the situations of secondary school students in solving routine and non-routine problems and the strategies they use while solving these problems. The research is in the survey model. The sample of the study consists of 430 students studying in the 6th, 7th and 8th grades of two official secondary schools by homogeneous sampling, one of the purposeful sampling methods. Routine and non-routine problem test and problem evaluation rubric were used as data collection tools in the study. As a result of the research, it was concluded that students were more successful in routine problems and that students mostly used arithmetic strategies in solving routine and non-routine problems. In addition, it was revealed that students used the equation strategy in solving routine problems, and the guess and check strategy in solving non-routine problems. As a result of the study, it was revealed that non-routine problems should be included more in the classroom and in the textbooks in mathematics lessons. In addition, it was concluded that students never used drawing, make a list, logical reasoning strategies in the process of problem solving, but never using the strategies of find a pattern, elimination, and working backwards.
The Relationship Between Learning - Centered Leadership and Teachers’ Organizational Identitiy Perceptions
Authors: AKGÜN Nuri , TABAK Işıl
Published: January 2023

In the study, it is aimed to reveal whether there is a significant relationship between the learning-centered leadership behaviors of school principals and teachers' perceptions about organizational identity according to teachers' views. 266 teachers working in secondary education institutions in the central district of Bolu province in the 2020-2021 academic year who voluntarily participated in the study make up the study group of the research in which the relational screening method has been used. In the research, as for data collection tools, learning-centered leadership scale and teacher organizational identity perception scale have been used together with the personal information form. When the result of the research is considered, teachers' perceptions of learning-centered leadership and organizational identity are high. Variables such as gender, working time at the school, working time with the school principal do not make difference in teachers' views on learning-centered leadership and organizational identity perceptions. While the seniority variable creates a significant difference in the teachers' views on learning-centered leadership in the sub-dimensions of providing learning support, managing learning programs and being a model, it does not make difference in their perceptions of organizational identity. There is a positive, reasonable relationship between learning-centered leadership and organizational identity.
The Middle-Income Trap and Competition Policy: An Institutional Analysis
Authors: Song Huike , Buts Caroline , Jegers Marc
Published: January 2023

This article studies a potential link between the middle-income trap and competition policy. It analyzes how a country’s competition policy relates to the transition process from the middle-income stage to the high-income stage, and what features of competition policy are accompanying a countryʼs successful leap from the middle-income group of countries. We find that to avoid falling into the middle-income trap, a country should have an appropriate institutional environment, which includes rigorous adherence to the rule of law, high regulatory quality, and high government effectiveness. It seems necessary to introduce competition policy as early as possible for countries in the upper middle-income stage. The quality of competition law and the independence of the competition authority must be guaranteed.
An application of citric acid as a carrier for solid dispersion to improve the dissolution and uric acid-lowering effect of kaempferol
Authors: Song Danni , Xie Changqing , Yang Rong , Ma Aijinxiu , Zhao Honghui , Zou Fengmao , Zhang Xiangrong , Zhao Xu
Published: January 2023

Kaempferol (KPF) is a flavonoid compound, which has a variety of pharmacological activities, and widely exists in daily diet. However, its application is limited due to poor solubility. Citric acid (CA) is a common food additive with high solubility. In this study, solid dispersion (SD) was prepared with CA as the carrier to improve the solubility of KPF. KPF-CA-SD (weight ratio 1:20) was obtained by ultrasonic for 20 min at 40 °C. The in vitro dissolution of KPF in SD was increased from about 50% to more than 80%. The physicochemical characterizations were analyzed by X-ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscope. In hyperuricemia mice, KPF-SD (equivalent to 100 mg/kg KPF) can effectively reduce serum uric acid and exert nephroprotective effects. In conclusion, the preparation of SD with CA might provide a safe and effective selection to facilitate application of KPF in food and medicine.
Classification of non-solvable groups whose power graph is a cograph
Authors: Brachter Jendrik , Kaja Eda
Published: January 2023

In recent work, Cameron, Manna and Mehatari have studied the finite groups whose power graph is a cograph, which we refer to as power-cograph groups.
They classify the nilpotent groups with this property, and they establish partial results in the general setting, highlighting certain number-theoretic difficulties that arise for the simple groups of the form

PSL
2

⁡

(
q
)

\operatorname{PSL}_{2}(q)

or

Sz
⁡

(

2

2
⁢
e

+
1

)

\operatorname{Sz}(2^{2e+1})

.
In this paper, we prove that these number-theoretic problems are in fact the only obstacles to the classification of non-solvable power-cograph groups.
Specifically, for the non-solvable case, we give a classification of power-cograph groups in terms of such groups isomorphic to

PSL
2

⁡

(
q
)

\operatorname{PSL}_{2}(q)

or

Sz
⁡

(

2

2
⁢
e

+
1

)

\operatorname{Sz}(2^{2e+1})

.
For the solvable case, we are able to precisely describe the structure of solvable power-cograph groups.
We obtain a complete classification of solvable power-cograph groups whose Gruenberg–Kegel graph is connected.
Moreover, we reduce the case where the Gruenberg–Kegel graph is disconnected to the classification of 𝑝-groups admitting fixed-point-free automorphisms of prime power order, which is in general an open problem.
Adaptive POD-DEIM correction for Turing pattern approximation in reaction–diffusion PDE systems
Authors: Alla Alessandro , Monti Angela , Sgura Ivonne
Published: January 2023

We investigate a suitable application of Model Order Reduction (MOR) techniques for the numerical approximation of Turing patterns, that are stationary solutions of reaction–diffusion PDE (RD-PDE) systems. We show that solutions of surrogate models built by classical Proper Orthogonal Decomposition (POD) exhibit an unstable error behaviour over the dimension of the reduced space. To overcome this drawback, first of all, we propose a POD-DEIM technique with a correction term that includes missing information in the reduced models. To improve the computational efficiency, we propose an adaptive version of this algorithm in time that accounts for the peculiar dynamics of the RD-PDE in presence of Turing instability. We show the effectiveness of the proposed methods in terms of accuracy and computational cost for a selection of RD systems, i.e., FitzHugh–Nagumo, Schnakenberg and the morphochemical DIB models, with increasing degree of nonlinearity and more structured patterns.
The main tasks of a semiotics of artificial intelligence
Authors: Leone Massimo
Published: January 2023

The article indicates the essential tasks of a semiotics of artificial intelligence: studying the way it simulates the expression of intelligence; the way it produces content that is creatively endowed; the ideological assumptions of artificial intelligence within the culture that produces it. Artificial intelligence is, from a semiotic point of view, the predominant technology of fakery in the current era. On the strength of its studies on the false, semiotics can therefore also be applied to the analysis of the fake that, in increasingly sophisticated forms, is produced through artificial intelligence and through the deep learning of neural networks. The article focuses on the adversarial ones, trying to highlight their ideological assumptions and cultural developments, which seem to indicate the entry of human societies and cultures into the ‘realm of the absolute fake’.
Oil as narcotic or as medicine: the DISEASE metaphor in political cartoons on energy crisis
Authors: Zhao Xiufeng , Wu Yuxin
Published: January 2023

The present paper explores how the issue of the current energy crisis in the wake of the Covid-19 and Ukraine war was constructed by political cartoons. Adopting Critical Multimodal Metaphor Scenario Analysis, this paper focuses on thediseasemetaphor scenario, one of the most recurring scenarios in political cartoons on this topic, and specifically emphasizes how themethod of treatment, one of the structural elements in the scenario, is represented. The analysis reveals that two predominant scenarios constitute the representations of themethod of treatment: narcoticscenario andmedicinescenario. They differ in entailments: one frames fossil energy as detrimental narcotic while the other frames it as therapeutic medicine. By means of the two scenarios, these cartoons convey strong criticism of the major involvers in the energy crisis, namely, the E.U., Russia, and the U.S. The cartoons make full use of the dynamic interplay of visual and/or verbal metonymy, metaphor, and narrative to elicit associations, assumptions and evaluations in the viewers, helping facilitate understanding and constructing a view of the crisis reality. The present analysis sheds light on the way cartoonists reshape the public point of view in the framing of specific event(s).
Synthesis and crystal structure of 1-((3R,10S,13R,17S)-3-((4-methoxyphenyl)amino)-10,13-dimethylhexadecahydro-1H-cyclopenta[α]-phenanthren-17-yl)ethan-1-one, C28H41NO2
Authors: Zhang Wen-Wen , Ye Jiang-Hai , Huang Hua , Zou Juan , He Kang
Published: January 2023

C28H41NO2, orthorhombic, P212121 (no. 19), a = 10.4480(5) Å, b = 12.4188(6) Å, c = 18.3905(10) Å, V = 2386.2(2) Å3, Z = 4, R

gt
(F) = 0.0608, wR

ref
(F
2) = 0.1510, T = 273(2) K.