bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Polarization adjustment-free optical vector analyzer using cascade polarization maintaining interferometers
Authors: Li Peijiong , Huang Mingyang , Yu Zhangjun , Yang Jun
Published: August 2024

To eliminate the polarization misalignment error of a conventional optical vector analyzer, we proposed a polarization-maintaining configuration and a suppression algorithm for polarization crosstalk-induced error. The method’s validity and repeatability are verified and evaluated, respectively.
Cost-effective gaze tracking system based on polymer fiber specklegrams
Authors: Lu Shun , Tan Zhongwei , Kong Shuo , Zhang Danni
Published: August 2024

Gaze tracking technology has a wide range of applications in the fields of VR/AR glasses. In this paper, a plastic optical fiber (POF) is used as a light transmission waveguide to transmit the light reflected from the eye to the outside of the device for processing, thereby eliminating the need for in-device camera installations. By processing two fan-shaped surfaces on the POF at a 45° angle relative to the vertical direction, the POF gains the ability to couple light from the side. The reflected light of the eye can be transmitted to the outside of the device through the POF. The specklegram corresponding to 76 different gaze directions is classified by SE-Resnet18, and the accuracy reached 96.9%. The gaze tracking system is low cost and simple in structure and has potential application in fields such as AR glasses, human–computer interaction (HCI), and medical diagnosis.
Complex anisotropy ratio of third harmonic generation in a semiconductor using a terahertz free electron laser
Authors: Khoa Phan Thanh Nhat , Wang You Wei , Shimizu Tomoki , Kato Kosaku , Agulto Verdad C. , Isoyama Goro , Fujioka Shinsuke , Nakajima Makoto
Published: August 2024

The nonlinear susceptibility in the terahertz region is expected to have a non-negligible imaginary part originating from the momentum-dependent scattering time of free carriers, but it has been scarcely reported. By utilizing an intense 4 THz beam from a terahertz free electron laser, we investigated the azimuth angle dependence of the third harmonic generation (THG) from semiconductors. The observed angular anisotropy of THG revealed the contribution of the imaginary part of the nonlinear susceptibility originating from the momentum-scattering time relation in addition to its real part originating from the band nonparabolicity. The results provide a deeper understanding of nonlinear optics in the terahertz region.
Tailoring directional chiral emission from molecules coupled to extrinsic chiral quasi-bound states in the continuum
Authors: Liang Minpeng , Andreani Lucio Claudio , Berghuis Anton Matthijs , Pura José Luis , Murai Shunsuke , Dong Hongguang , Sánchez-Gil José A. , Gómez Rivas Jaime
Published: August 2024

We investigate the chiral emission from non-chiral molecules coupled to metasurfaces with a unit cell formed by dimers of detuned and displaced Si nanodisks. The detuning and displacement lead to the formation of narrow modes, known as quasi-bound states in the continuum (Q-BICs), with different electric and magnetic characteristics. The dispersion and character of the modes are explained by using the guided-mode expansion method and finite-element simulations. The coupling between these modes leads to an extrinsic chiral response with large circular dichroism for defined energies and wavevectors. When the lattice constant of the metasurface is changed, the dispersion of the extrinsic chiral Q-BICs can be tuned and the emission properties of a thin film of dye molecules on top of the metasurface are modified. In particular, we observe strongly directional and circularly polarized emission from the achiral dye molecules with a degree of circular polarization reaching 0.8 at the wavelengths defined by the dispersion of the Q-BICs. These results could enable the realization of compact light sources with a large degree of circular polarization for applications in displays, optical recording, or optical communication.
bHLH transcription factors cooperate with chromatin remodelers to regulate cell fate decisions during Arabidopsis stomatal development
Authors: Liu Ao , Mair Andrea , Matos Juliana L. , Vollbrecht Macy , Xu Shou-Ling , Bergmann Dominique C.
Published: August 2024

The development of multicellular organisms requires coordinated changes in gene expression that are often mediated by the interaction between transcription factors (TFs) and their corresponding cis-regulatory elements (CREs). During development and differentiation, the accessibility of CREs is dynamically modulated by the epigenome. How the epigenome, CREs, and TFs together exert control over cell fate commitment remains to be fully understood. In the Arabidopsis leaf epidermis, meristemoids undergo a series of stereotyped cell divisions, then switch fate to commit to stomatal differentiation. Newly created or reanalyzed scRNA-seq and ChIP-seq data confirm that stomatal development involves distinctive phases of transcriptional regulation and that differentially regulated genes are bound by the stomatal basic helix–loop–helix (bHLH) TFs. Targets of the bHLHs often reside in repressive chromatin before activation. MNase-seq evidence further suggests that the repressive state can be overcome and remodeled upon activation by specific stomatal bHLHs. We propose that chromatin remodeling is mediated through the recruitment of a set of physical interactors that we identified through proximity labeling—the ATPase-dependent chromatin remodeling SWI/SNF complex and the histone acetyltransferase HAC1. The bHLHs and chromatin remodelers localize to overlapping genomic regions in a hierarchical order. Furthermore, plants with stage-specific knockdown of the SWI/SNF components or HAC1 fail to activate specific bHLH targets and display stomatal development defects. Together, these data converge on a model for how stomatal TFs and epigenetic machinery cooperatively regulate transcription and chromatin remodeling during progressive fate specification.
The efficiency of adjusting nutrient solution renewal frequency on physicochemical properties and microbial community of cucumber exudates under closed cultivation tank
Authors: Gao Yaqing , Sang Jiajun , Liang Hao , Ji Yanhai , Liu Mingchi
Published: August 2024

The closed nutrient solution management method allows for the recycling and utilization of nutrient solutions, improving the efficiency of water and fertilizer utilization. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of changing the frequency of nutrient solution renewal and method of nutrient supply on the microbial communities composition, yield, and quality in closed soilless systems by using high-throughput sequencing technology and combining the physicochemical properties of root exudate solution. The results showed that different nutrient solution management modes had a significant impact on the structure and diversity of root exudate solution microbial communities. The abundance and diversity of microorganisms in inorganic perlites were correlative with EC. The abundance and diversity of bacterial communities in the root exudate solution of open liquid supply (CK) were higher than that of closed liquid supply, while the abundance and diversity of fungal communities in the root exudate solution of closed liquid supply (T1, T2, T3) were higher than that of open liquid supply. As the frequency of nutrient solution interval decreased, the accumulation of salt in root exudate solution and the richness and diversity of the fungal community also decreased, especially increasing the K+, Ca2+, and Mg2+ contents, which were positively correlated with potential beneficial Candidatus_Xiphinematobacter, Arachidicoccus, Cellvibrio, Mucilaginibacter, Taibaiella communities and decreasing the content of soluble protein, Vitamin C content, but not significantly increased cucumber yield.
Immunohistochemical analyses reveal FoxP3 expressions in spleen and colorectal cancer in mice treated with AOM/DSS, and their suppression by glycyrrhizin
Authors: Wang Guifeng , Hiramoto Keiichi , Ma Ning , Ohnishi Shiho , Morita Akihiro , Xu Yifei , Yoshikawa Nobuji , Chinzei Yasuo , Murata Mariko , Kawanishi Shosuke
Published: August 2024

We previously demonstrated that glycyrrhizin (GL) suppressed inflammation and carcinogenesis in an azoxymethane (AOM)/dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced murine model of colorectal cancer (CC). In this study, we found an accumulation of regulatory T cells (Tregs) in the spleen and suppression by GL in model mice. ICR mice were divided into four groups: Control, GL, CC, and GL-treated CC (CC+GL), and were sacrificed 20 weeks after AOM/DSS treatment. We measured spleen weight, areas of white and red pulp, and CD8+ T cells (cytotoxic T lymphocytes, CTL), and CD11c-positive cells (dendritic cells) in splenic tissues and forkhead box protein 3 (FoxP3)-positive cells (Tregs) in colorectal and splenic tissues. In all cases, the CC group showed a significant increase compared with those in Control group, and GL administration significantly attenuated this increase. These results indicate that Tregs accumulated in the spleen may participate in inflammation-related carcinogenesis by suppressing CTL. We also suggest that GL which binds to high-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), suppresses carcinogenesis with decreasing Tregs in the spleen. Furthermore, there was an expression of FoxP3 in cancer cells, indicating that it may be involved in the malignant transformation of cancer cells.
KNUST aging and human immunodeficiency virus outcomes—Study protocol
Authors: Werekuu Alex , Ayisi-Boateng Nana Kwame , Tagoe Nadia , Opoku Douglas Aninng , Barnie Bernard , Twumasi Godfred Kumi , Boadu Yaa Twumwaa , So-Armah Kaku , Tawiah Phyllis
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Globally, 7 million people with HIV (PWH) aged over 50 years exist. 5 million of them live in sub-Saharan Africa, the epicenter of the HIV epidemic. In Ghana, every 1 in 6 PWH is aged over 50 years. However, access to geriatric health care is grossly limited in Ghana and the sub-Saharan Africa region. This has resulted in a lack of focus on geriatric syndromes, a multi-factorial clinical condition common in older PWH, that do not fit discrete disease categories. Consequently, this gap threatens the life expectancy for aging PWH, necessitating the need to promptly fill it. The KNUST Aging and HIV Outcomes (KAHO) study will help identify priorities and opportunities for developing an effective integrated model of HIV and geriatric healthcare in Ghana.

Methods and analysis

The KAHO study will recruit 151 PWH aged 50 years and older at the Infectious Disease Unit (IDU) of the University Hospital, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST). The study will be conducted over a 2-year period and participants will be seen at months 0, 6 and 12. Participants at each visit will be taken through assessments and questionnaires on geriatric health, cognition, social vulnerability, HIV-related conditions and they will provide biospecimens for laboratory testing. We will also conduct semi-structured qualitative interviews of PWH, healthcare providers, policy makers and study research assistants. Quantitative data will be analyzed using one sample proportion test and linear regression models appropriately. The Levesque’s framework will be used as a guide to analyze qualitative data.
Pelvic floor muscle training in women with urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse: A protocol study
Authors: de Carvalho Maria Letícia A. S. , Bezerra Lívia Oliveira , Oliveira Joyce Maria Pereira , Oliveira Maria Clara Eugênia , Micussi Maria T. A. B. C.
Published: August 2024

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness of pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) on pelvic floor muscle (PFM) function and quality of life (QoL) in women with stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and pelvic organ prolapse (POP).

Methods

This study will be a randomized, controlled, parallel, and blinded clinical trial. The final sample will consist of 32 women diagnosed with SUI and cystocele (stage I and II). All volunteers will be assessed and reassessed using the same protocol: assessment form, gynecological examination, functional evaluation of PFM, and questionnaires to assess quality of life, urinary function, and sexual function. All volunteers will be evaluated for satisfaction levels post-treatment. The intervention will be PFMT, totaling 16 sessions to be conducted twice a week. Reevaluation will take place at the end of treatment and 1 month after completion of PFMT. Descriptive analysis and repeated measures ANOVA will be used for result analysis. A significance level of p<0.05 will be considered for all statistical tests.

Ethics and dissemination

This study has been submitted to the Ethics in Research Committee of the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte and approved under protocol number 5.826.563. It has been registered with the Brazilian Clinical Trials Registry ReBec (RBR-49p6g3t). It is expected that these studies will provide a deeper understanding of the efficacy of PFMT in women with SUI and cystocele. Additionally, it aims to provide more insights into the efficacy of PFMT prior to surgery.
The limits of sportswashing. How the 2022 FIFA World Cup affected attitudes about Qatar
Authors: Gerschewski Johannes , Giebler Heiko , Hellmeier Sebastian , Keremoğlu Eda , Zürn Michael
Published: August 2024

Non-democratic regimes have increasingly been hosting major sports events to boost their visibility and image abroad, which sparked debates about the potential for “sportswashing”. Using the case of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar we examine how the framing of the tournament influenced opinions about Qatar abroad. Our pre-registered survey experiment with more than 14,000 respondents in eight European countries conducted before the tournament shows that framing it in light of human rights issues in Qatar leads to more negative attitudes towards the host of the World Cup. In contrast, frames emphasizing Qatar’s organizational capacity improve respondents’ attitudes. The heterogeneity of effects across countries highlights the relevance of the national information environment for the effects of major sports events on public opinion. These findings suggest that critical media coverage could potentially mitigate sportswashing efforts while uncritical coverage can increase the legitimacy of autocracies.
Female migrants into Fukushima: A qualitative approach to their migration-support needs after the nuclear accident
Authors: Kobayashi Tomoyuki , Hidaka Tomoo , Mizuki Rie , Kobayashi Akemi , Maeda Masaharu
Published: August 2024

We aimed to examine the support needs of women who migrated to Fukushima Prefecture after the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant accident. In recent years, the presence of migrants has become an important part of the government’s reconstruction policy for affected areas. However, there is insufficient research on the status of migrants in these areas, and it is unclear what kind of support the migrants, especially females, require to encourage further migration to the area. We conducted three semi-structured interviews each with four women who had migrated to Fukushima after the accident. The narratives obtained from the interviews were summarized into categories through open coding and were finally presented as support needs in the form of a four-quadrant diagram. Four needs were identified for female migrants in areas affected by the radiation disaster: “soft adaptation needs,” “lifestyle constancy needs,” “female empowerment needs,” and “community participation needs.” Female migrants in the affected areas may be marginalized in terms of receiving migrant support. Key strategies for supporting female migrants in radiation disaster areas include providing an environment in which they can relax, interact with Fukushima and its residents, and address intersectionality.
Evaluation of a point-of-care rapid diagnostic test kit (SICKLECHECK) for screening of sickle cell diseases
Authors: Purohit Prasanta , Parida Chinmayee , Martha Tapan Kumar , Bholo Snehal , Naik Aparupa , Behera Samira Kumar
Published: August 2024

Sickle cell diseases (SCD) are the most common genetic disorders with significant morbidity and mortality worldwide, including in India. The high prevalence of this disorder in many geographical regions calls for the use of a point-of-care rapid diagnostic test (RDT) for early screening and management of the diagnosed cases to reduce the allied clinical severity. In view of this, the present study was undertaken for the validation of a point-of-care RDT kit (SICKLECHECKTM) for the screening of SCD. This validation and diagnostic accuracy study was conducted among the cases advised for screening of SCD. For validation, all the recruited cases were investigated for both the SICKLECHECKTM RDT kit and HPLC (Variant-II) considering HPLC as a gold standard. A total of 400 cases were screened for both tests. For the presence and absence of sickle cell hemoglobin in the samples, SICKLECHECKTM RDT kit results showed a sensitivity and specificity of 99.39% and 98.73% respectively with references to HPLC findings. For the detection of the ‘AS’ pattern, the SICKLECHECKTM RDT kit has shown a sensitivity and specificity of 99.07% and 98.81% respectively. For the detection of the ‘SS’ pattern, the SICKLECHECKTM RDT kit has shown a sensitivity and specificity of 97.92% and 100.0% respectively. Cases with β thalassemia trait, hemoglobin E trait, hemoglobin Lepore trait and trait for hereditary-persistence-of-fetal-hemoglobin (high HbF %) diagnosed in HPLC were resulted with ‘AA’ pattern in SICKLECHECKTM RDT kit. The high sensitivity and specificity of the SICKLECHECKTM RDT kit insist on its use as a point-of-care screening tool for SCD especially where there is a lack of laboratory facilities as well as in hospital-based set-up requiring immediate diagnosis and management of SCD. However, for further confirmation, the samples should be analyzed with other gold standard techniques like HPLC.
Spanish cultural diplomacy in Portugal: Cultural programming of the Instituto Cervantes de Lisboa and SPAIN arts & culture
Authors: Castañer Berenguer Rebeca , Pazos-Justo Carlos , Iriarte Sanromán Álvaro
Published: August 2024

The Instituto Cervantes and the government platform SPAIN arts & culture are two of the primary protagonists of Spanish cultural diplomacy abroad. Based on two corpora prepared with the cultural activities published by the Instituto Cervantes de Lisboa and the government platform SPAIN arts & culture on their websites, the main objective of this article is to portray Spanish cultural diplomacy in Portugal. The data obtained manually or semi-automatically suggest that Spanish cultural diplomacy is an unequivocal object of interest in Portugal, with Lisbon being its main geo-cultural hub. Moreover, the incorporation of other agents in what is termed cultural paradiplomacy is not a common practice.
Areas of subalternity in Sara Mesa’s work
Authors: Martínez Fernández Ángela
Published: August 2024

This article centres on one of the driving forces that runs throughout the work of author Sara Mesa: specifically, areas of subalternity, that is, subjects or spaces which either belong to the margins of what is considered normative or those which prove difficult to ‘hear’. Thus, Mesa’s literature works with territories that are in conflict for dominant and normative understandings of the social, hence her focus on characters in their childhood, her reflection on the effects generated by places of discipline (schools, psychiatric hospitals, orphanages), or her denunciation of narratives that render subjects in social exclusion and poverty invisible. In this sense, this article proposes a first approach to what can be considered the conscious exploration of certain areas of subalternity (subjects and/or spaces) through narrative tools. To do so, two paradigmatic examples have been selected: the story about a woman living in poverty told in Silencio administrativo (‘Administrative silence’) (2019), and the fictional story about a teenage girl who suffers harassment and a man undergoing psychiatric treatment in Cara de pan (‘Among the hedges’) (2018).
Unveiling the true impact of international research collaboration
Authors: Adams Jonathan , Potter Ross , Szomszor Martin
Published: August 2024

Governments, along with their electorates need to base their decisions and actions on reliable information. Indices of academic impact based on citation data extracted from the Web of Science™ are correlated with peer judgments on academic achievement and are widely used in research management and policy planning. However, an over reliance on citation impact indicators can be misleading and prone to misinterpretation in analysis, if the underlying distribution is not also thoroughly examined. A new approach to indexing the impact of domestic and collaborative research, Collaborative CNCI (Collab-CNCI) can highlight domestic research that outperforms international work, relative to the respective collaboration group. Collab-CNCI can also expose research portfolios that are entirely dependent on collaborations with other organizations and lack internal strength.
Problem Based Learning: Peningkatan Hasil Belajar Fikih Materi Qurban dan Aqiqah pada Siswa di MTs Negeri 10 Sleman
Authors: Andaryati Erni
Published: August 2024

This study aims to identify the effectiveness of the Problem Based Learning (PBL) method on student learning outcomes in Fikih lessons. This study used classroom action research methods. The subject of the study was a student of MTs Negeri 10 Sleman. Research is carried out in two cycles including planning, implementation, observation, and reflection activities. The results showed that the learning outcomes of students experienced a significant increase, from 47% increased to 79% in cycle 1 and 97% in cycle 2. The problem-based learning method can be applied to Jurisprudence subjects at the madrasah level. Improvement in learning outcomes can be seen from the form of change, namely: habits, skills, observation, associative thinking and memory, rational and critical thinking, attitudes, appreciation, and effective behaviour. At the MTs level, Fikih subjects are subjects that are directed to prepare students so that students can know, understand, and practice Islamic sharia which is the basis of their view of life in society.
Penerapan Pembelajaran Kooperatif Tipe STAD untuk Meningkatkan Keaktifan dan Hasil Belajar IPA pada Siswa di MI Negeri 1 Yogyakarta
Authors: Yuliati Erni
Published: August 2024

This study aims to improve student activeness and learning outcomes through the application of the STAD type cooperative learning model. This type of research is classroom action research (PTK) which uses Robert Slavin's research model. This research was carried out in 2 cycles including planning, implementation, observation, and reflection stages. Data collection using instruments in the form of: student learning activity instruments, student attitudes and skills, teacher performance assessment instruments and tests. Data analysis techniques use qualitative analysis techniques and quantitative analysis. The results showed that the application of the STAD type cooperative learning model can increase student learning activities, having an impact on improving student learning outcomes. This can be seen from the average percentage of student activity in cycle I of 72.85%, cycle II of 86.42%. Meanwhile, the average student learning outcomes in the attitude aspect in cycle I was 80.74% and cycle II was 83.92%.
Upaya Meningkatkan Keterampilan Menulis Teks Persuasi dengan Menggunakan Media Poster di MTs Negeri 4 Bantul
Authors: Suratmi Suratmi
Published: August 2024

This study aims to improve the ability to write persuasion texts using poster media. This study used action research methods carried out in two cycles. Each cycle consists of four stages, namely planning, execution, observation, and reflection. Data collection techniques use written tests, observations, field notes, and photo documentation. The research instrument uses observation sheets, persuasion text writing skills assessment sheets and photo documentation. The subject of the study was a student of grade VIII.D MTs Negeri 4 Bantul Even Semester of the 2021/2022 Academic Year. The results showed that learning using poster media can increase students' activeness and skills in writing persuasion texts, both in terms of process and product. This can be seen in the results of the persuasion text writing test from the pre-action stage to cycle II increased from 46% to 85%. Poster media is one of the writing learning media that can increase the activeness and skills of students writing persuasion texts.
Pengembangan Modul Ajar Berdiferensiasi Berbasis ADDIE pada Mata Pelajaran Bahasa Indonesia di SMK Negeri 2 Bojonegoro
Authors: Yunita Vika , Sujinah Sujinah , Yarno Yarno
Published: August 2024

This study also aims to describe the validity, effectiveness of the development of differentiated teaching modules to increase students' creativity in making observation reports. This research uses the R&D (Research and Development) method with ADDIE's development steps consisting of several stages: Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation and Evaluation. The assessment instrument used by the researcher is in the form of a validation and practicality sheet, then the assessment instrument is validated by three validators, namely content validators, language validators and graphics validators, then the practicality sheet is determined by practitioners. The results of the validity of the Teaching Module carried out by the validator team obtained an average validity score of 9% categorized as very valid. Furthermore, the results of the effectiveness test showed the completeness of students' effective student learning outcomes with an average score of 92%. In addition, the average score of the practicality test results by educators of 93.45% is categorized as very practical. The results of the development of differentiated teaching modules are very valid, effective, and practical in increasing students' creativity in making reports on observation results in Indonesian Language subjects.
Analisis Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) pada Soal Asesmen Madrasah pada Mata Pelajaran Al-Quran Hadis di MAN 3 Sleman
Authors: Taufikurohman Mohammad , Maemonah Maemonah
Published: August 2024

The purpose of this study is to examine how Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) are applied in the Madrasah Assessment questions. A qualitative approach combined with descriptive analysis is the research methodology employed. Documentation and in-depth interviews were used to gather data. The analysis's findings indicate that, of the 35 questions examined, 33 belong to the HOTS category and just 2 to the LOTS category. Most of the questions fall into the C4 (analysing) and C5 (evaluating) cognitive levels of Bloom's Taxonomy, as updated by Anderson and Krathwohl. These results suggest that the evaluation at MAN 3 Sleman concentrates on helping students acquire higher-order thinking abilities, which is essential when studying the Qur'an and Hadith. This study does, however, also emphasize the necessity of maintaining a balance between LOTS and HOTS questions in assessments and the significance of continuous teacher preparation for creating HOTS questions. To guarantee the successful use of HOTS questions, legislators in the field of education must also provide their support. It is therefore intended that examinations will be more successful in equipping pupils with strong critical, creative, and analytical thinking abilities to meet problems in the future.
Budaya Organisasi Lembaga Pendidikan Islam dalam Epistemologi Kuntowijoyo
Authors: Hestiana Ratna , Labaso Syahrial
Published: August 2024

The formation of organizational culture in Islamic educational institutions is an important element that affects the performance and success of the institution. This study aims to analyse the process of forming organizational culture in Islamic educational institutions through the perspective of the epistemological structure of Kuntowijoyo culture. The method used in this study is a literature study, by examining various relevant literature related to organizational culture, Islamic education, and Kuntowijoyo's thought. The epistemological structure of the Kuntowijoyo culture includes three main components: objectification, subjectification, and intersubjectivities. The results of the study show that Islamic values are objectified in the vision, mission, and policies of Islamic educational institutions; subjectifies through the internalization of these values by individuals in daily practice; and intersubjective through social interaction within the institution. The consistent application of Islamic values in all aspects of the organization has proven to be important in shaping and maintaining a strong organizational culture that is aligned with Islamic principles, which ultimately improves the quality of education and the formation of students' character.
Early Stages of Trachea Healing Process: (Immuno/Lectin) Histochemical Monitoring of Selected Markers and Adhesion/ Growth-Regulatory Endogenous Lectins
Authors: Grendel T. , Sokolský J. , Vaščáková A. , Hudák V. , Chovanec M. , Sabol F. , André S. , Kaltner H. , Gabius H.-J. , Frankovičová M. , Lenčeš P. , Betka J. , Smetana K. , Gál Peter
Published: August 2024

Tracheotomy may be associated with numerous acute and chronic complications including extensive formation of granulation tissue. The emerging functional versatility of the adhesion/growthregulatory galectins prompted us to perform a histochemical study of wound healing using rat trachea as model. By using non-cross-reactive antibodies and the labelled tissue lectins we addressed the issue of the presence and regulation of galectin reactivity during trachea wound healing. Beside localization of high-molecular-weight keratin, wide-spectrum cytokeratin, keratins 10 and 14, α-smooth muscle actin, vimentin, fibronectin, and Sox-2, galectins -1, -2, and -3 and their reactivity profiles were measured in frozen sections of wounded and control trachea specimens 7, 14, and 28 days after trauma. A clear trend for decreased galectin-1 presence and increased reactivity for galectin-1 was revealed from day 7 to day 28. Sox-2-positive cells were present after seven days and found in the wound bed. Interestingly, several similarities were observed in comparison to skin wound healing including regulation of galectin-1 parameters.
Die ganze Leistung?
Authors: Kerber-Clasen Stefan , Mauritz Carolin
Published: August 2024

Der Leistungsbegriff und die damit zusammenhängenden Fragen nach der Art der Leistung und den leistungserbringenden Subjekten werden in kapitalistischen Gesellschaften zwar immer wieder neu, jedoch gleichbleibend erwerbsarbeitszentriert verhandelt. In unserem Artikel fokussieren wir hingegen Leistungserzählungen in Arbeitsformen jenseits der Erwerbsarbeit. Unter Einbezug von Gruppendiskussionen und biografischen Interviews aus zwei unterschiedlichen qualitativen Forschungsprojekten analysieren wir, wie Freiwillige und Haus- und Sorgearbeit leistende Frauen Leistung darstellen und konzeptionalisieren. Unser Ziel ist es, den arbeitssoziologischen Blick auch auf Formen und Darstellungen von Leistung jenseits der Erwerbsarbeit zu lenken und die Frage nach der gesellschaftlichen Konstruktion und Anerkennung von Leistung erneut zu diskutieren.
Long non-coding RNAs in bone formation: Key regulators and therapeutic prospects
Authors: Jiang Chun , Wang Peng , Tan ZhenWei , Zhang Yin
Published: August 2024

Recent scientific investigations have revealed the intricate mechanisms underlying bone formation, emphasizing the essential role of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) as critical regulators. This process, essential for skeletal strength and functionality, involves the transformation of mesenchymal stem cells into osteoblasts and subsequent deposition of bone matrix. lncRNAs, including HOX transcript antisense RNA (HOTAIR), metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1), differentiation antagonizing non-coding RNA (DANCR), and maternally expressed gene 3 (MEG3), have emerged as prominent players in this regulatory network. HOTAIR modulates osteoblast differentiation by interacting with chromatin-modifying enzymes, while MALAT1 regulates osteogenic differentiation through microRNA interactions. DANCR collaborates with Runx2 to fine-tune osteoblast differentiation, and MEG3 orchestrates multiple signaling pathways crucial for bone formation. Moreover, other lncRNAs such as H19, lncRNA for enhancing osteogenesis 3, rhabdomyosarcoma 2-associated transcript, urothelial cancer associated 1, taurine up-regulated gene 1, and nuclear enriched abundant transcript 1 contribute to the complex regulatory network governing osteoblast activities. Understanding the precise roles of these lncRNAs offers promising avenues for developing innovative therapeutic strategies targeting bone-related disorders like osteoporosis. Overall, this review summarizes the pivotal role of lncRNAs in bone formation, highlighting their potential as targets for future research endeavors aimed at advancing therapeutic interventions in bone diseases.
The deubiquitinating enzyme USP35 regulates the stability of NRF2 protein
Authors: Zhang Dian , Li Jiawen , Zhang Chao , Xue Jinliang , Li Peihao , Shang Kai , Zhang Xiao , Lang Baoping
Published: August 2024

Many cancers exhibit resistance to chemotherapy, resulting in a poor prognosis. The transcription factor NRF2, activated in response to cellular antioxidants, plays a crucial role in cell survival, proliferation, and resistance to chemotherapy. This factor may serve as a promising target for therapeutic interventions in esophageal carcinoma. Recent research suggests that NRF2 activity is modulated by ubiquitination mediated by the KEAP1-CUL3 E3 ligase complex, highlighting the importance of deubiquitination. However, the specific deubiquitinase responsible for regulating NRF2 in esophageal cancer remains unknown. In this study, a novel regulator of the NRF2 protein, Ubiquitin-Specific Protease 35 (USP35), has been identified. Mechanistically, USP35 modulates NRF2 stability through enzymatic deubiquitination. USP35 interacts with NRF2 and facilitates its deubiquitination. Knockdown of USP35 leads to a notable increase in NRF2 levels and enhances the sensitivity of cells to chemotherapy. These findings suggest that the USP35-NRF2 axis is a key player in the regulation of therapeutic strategies for esophageal cancer.
Medicines as Subjects: A Corpus-Based Study of Subjectification in Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Policy
Authors: Saldanha Gabriela
Published: August 2024

The concept of subjectification plays a key role in Foucault’s theory of governmentality and has been an important tool for the analysis of policy discourses, for example, in the form of Bacchi’s (2009. Analysing Policy: What’s the Problem Represented to Be? Frenchs Forest, N.S.W.: Pearson Australia) ‘What’s the problem represented to be?’ methodology. In this article, I demonstrate how corpus analysis can complement Bacchi’s methodology to offer a systematic and sophisticated account of subjectification processes in policy discourse, using Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) policy as a case in point. I combine Bacchi’s methodology with van Leeuwen’s (2008. Discourse and Practice: New Tools for Critical Discourse Analysis. Oxford Studies in Sociolinguistics. Oxford: Oxford University Press) linguistic framework for the analysis of discourse as social praxis, and argue that both Bacchi and van Leeuwen’s methodologies contain an important limitation, which is the assumption that agency is necessarily human. Drawing on anthropological theories of agency, I propose a broader concept of subjectification which includes the process whereby human agency is represented as things. From this perspective, another reading of the results emerges, in which the main subjects are medicines, and the aim of the policy is to save medicines.
User-centric Smart City Services for People with Disabilities and the Elderly: A UN SDG Framework Approach
Authors: Vojinovic Iva , Panajotovic Tamara , Budimirovic Mikica , Jankovic Marija , Milic Dragan
Published: August 2024

The publication presents the result of extensive research analysing how we can make smart cities more sustainable and inclusive. The central problem was to explore the readiness to adopt inclusive smart services that can sustainably foster, primarily, the inclusion of people with disabilities and the elderly. The secondary audience included the general population, facilitating a comprehensive examination of the varying needs among these demographics. The methodology involved an online questionnaire, formulated based on the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2 model, and administered to a diverse sample of 302 participants from developing countries, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro, ensuring a broad representation of gender, age, educational backgrounds, and disability statuses. Key findings indicate a positive inclination towards smart city services across all demographics, particularly among the elderly and people with disabilities. Factors such as ease of use, and opportunities for social engagement are key drivers in the adoption of smart technologies. Research shows that all groups are interested in using smart city services if these would provide extensive environmental information, thereby improving their quality of life. The research contributes to the field by providing actionable insights for policymakers and urban developers to create more accessible and sustainable city environments.
Biosynthesis, characterization, and investigation of cytotoxic activities of selenium nanoparticles utilizing Limosilactobacillus fermentum
Authors: Aminisough Seyed Amirhamzeh , Daneshjou Sara , Khajeh Khosro
Published: August 2024

The biosynthesis of selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) is one of the methods used alongside other conventional methods for SeNP synthesis. In this research, we used the cell-free culture (CFC) of Limosilactobacillus fermentum for SeNP synthesis. We investigated the biosynthesis of SeNPs under various levels of temperature, pH, and Se4+ concentration and characterized the biosynthesized SeNPs using FE-SEM, energy-dispersive X-ray, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV–Vis), and dynamic light scattering–zeta potential analyses to find nanoparticles with desirable properties. Also, the cellular toxicity of SeNPs against the MCF-7 cell line was analyzed. The scavenging activity of free radicals in CFC before and after SeNP synthesis was examined using the DPPH method. The selected SeNP has an average hydrodynamic radius of 92.52 nm and a polydispersity index of 0.134. This nanoparticle also has a mostly spherical shape, amorphous nature, and zeta potential of −32.2 mV. The toxicity of nanoparticles for MCF-7 was much lower than sodium selenite salt. It was also confirmed that during nanoparticle synthesis, the reducing ability of CFC significantly decreases. This research aimed to design a safe, cheap, and eco-friendly protocol for the biosynthesis of SeNPs using the CFC of Limosilactobacillus fermentum. As a result, SeNPs possess great potential for further exploration in the realm of biomedicine.
Visible light communication optical FBMC-OQAM PAPR reduction using FHT-PTR algorithm for beyond 5G system
Authors: Gour Nidhi , Yadav Surendra , Kumar Arun
Published: August 2024

This paper addresses the reduction of peak-to-average power ratio (PAPR) in optical filter bank multicarrier (FBMC) with offset quadrature amplitude modulation (OQAM) using a fast Hadamard transform (FHT) centered partial transmit sequence (PTS) algorithm. High PAPR in FBMC-OQAM systems can cause non-linear distortions in optical transmitters, such as LEDs, leading to signal degradation. The proposed FHT-PTS algorithm effectively mitigates this issue by dividing the data symbols into disjoint subsets, applying phase rotations, and performing inverse FHT to generate multiple candidate sequences. The sequence with the lowest PAPR is selected for transmission. This technique ensures significant PAPR reduction while maintaining acceptable bit error rate (BER) performance. Simulation results demonstrate that the FHT-PTS algorithm achieves substantial PAPR reduction gain of 3 dB–6 dB compared to conventional PTS and other existing methods. The power spectrum density (PSD) analysis shows that the spectral efficiency of the FBMC-OQAM system is preserved, with minimal out-of-band emissions. The FHT operations significantly reduce the complexity compared to traditional Fourier transform-based methods, making the algorithm more feasible for real-time applications.
Diabetes and CFAP126 gene mutation; are they really linked together?
Authors: Arshad Kashan , Naseem Aamir , Hussain Syed Saddam , Mehak Noor-ul-ain , Butt Awais Muhammad , Aftab Sommayya , Saeed Anjum , Cheema Huma Arshad
Published: August 2024

Objectives

We are reporting a rare case series of 2 siblings and their mother with diabetes having a CFAP126 gene mutation.

Case presentation

Two female siblings, presented with incidental hyperglycemia at the ages of 16 and 13. They had a strong family history of diabetes on the maternal side. The systemic examination was unremarkable. Sibling 1 had HbA1C of 12.3 % with insulin and C-peptide levels of 6.6 IU/L and 1.8 ng/mL, respectively. Sibling 2 had an HbA1C of 12.6 %, an insulin level of 7.3 IU/L, and a C-peptide level of 2.02 ng/mL. Anti-GAD-65 and IA2 antibodies were negative. Mother also shared similar clinical processes and exhibited comparable biochemical changes related to glucose metabolism with elevated HbA1C levels and negative autoimmune markers (anti-GAD65 and IA2 antibodies). Whole exome sequencing (WES) turned out to be negative for MODY variants but revealed a rare heterozygous mutation in the CFAP126 gene (c.310A>T p. (Lys104*) in this family including both siblings and mother. The pathogenicity prediction tool MutationTaster® classified the mutation as disease causing. Oral glibenclamide remarkably reduced insulin requirements and improved HbA1C levels.

Conclusions

This rare genetic mutation is likely associated with diabetes and possibly a novel marker for a yet to be identified type of diabetes, that is responsive to oral sulfonylureas. The influence of this gene on insulin secretion needs to be confirmed through future research.
A basketball paradox: exploring NBA team defensive efficiency in a positionless game
Authors: South Charles
Published: August 2024

In the last decade, the offensive and defensive philosophies employed by teams in the National Basketball Association (NBA) have changed substantially. As a result, most players can no longer be classified into only one of the five traditional positions (PG, SG, SF, PF, C) and instead spend a percentage of their playing time at multiple positions, making positional data compositional. Further, given the desirability for versatile players, an argument can be made that traditional positions themselves are archaic. Using data from the 2016–17, 2017–18, and 2018–19 seasons, I explore how Bayesian hierarchical models can be used to estimate team defensive strength in three ways. First, only considering players classified by their majority traditional position. Second, by using compositional traditional positional data. Third, using compositional data from modern positions (archetypes) defined by fuzzy k-means clustering. I find that the fuzzy k-means approach leads to a modest improvement in both the root mean squared error and median 95 % posterior predictive interval width for the test data, and, more importantly, identifies 11 modern archetypes that, when combined, are correlated with team win total and adjusted team defensive rating. The modern archetype compositions can be used by stakeholders to better understand team defensive strength.
Dynamical investigation of the perturbed Chen–Lee–Liu model with conformable fractional derivative
Authors: Das Nilkanta , Saha Ray S.
Published: August 2024

This study focuses on the investigation of the perturbed Chen–Lee–Liu model with conformable fractional derivative by the implementation of the generalized projective Riccati equations technique. The proposed method uses symbolic computations to provide a dynamic and powerful mathematical tool for addressing the governing model and yielding significant results. Numerous analytical solutions of the governing model, including bell-shaped soliton solutions, anti-kink soliton solutions, periodic solitary wave solutions and other solutions, have been constructed effectively utilizing this effective technique. The findings acquired from the governing model utilizing the suggested technique demonstrate that all results are novel and presented for the first time in this study. Solitons are of immense significance in the domain of nonlinear optics due to their inherent ability to preserve their shape and velocity during propagation. The study of the propagation and the dynamical behaviour of the derived results have been explored by representing them graphically through 3D, density, and contour plots with different selections of arbitrary parameter values. The solitons acquired from the proposed model can provide significant advantages in the field of fiber-optic transmission technology. The obtained results demonstrate that the suggested approach is extremely promising, straightforward, and efficient. Furthermore, this approach may be effectively used in numerous emerging nonlinear models found in the fields of applied sciences and engineering.
Innovative Prozessketten in der Produktion
Authors: Zinnel Laura , Riegger Felix , Bloier Magdalena , Kick Laura , Zäh Michael F.
Published: August 2024

The hybrid process chain, consisting of wire arc additive manufacturing and post-processing, is a promising alternative to many established process chains but brings new challenges to the product development process. In several research projects at the Institute for Machine Tools and Industrial Management (iwb) at the Technical University of Munich, existing competencies in hybrid manufacturing are further developed. These research projects aim to enable hybrid manufacturing for new applications and to facilitate stable processes.
Flittergratvermeidung durch Dichtungsentwicklung
Authors: Doede Nils , Kriwall Mareile , Stonis Malte , Behrens Bernd-Arno
Published: August 2024

A major advantage of flashless precision forging is the saving of resources by avoiding excess material. Especially materials with good flow properties, such as aluminum, sometimes lead to the formation of thin flash. Seals have been developed and experimentally tested to prevent thin flash, i.e. the flow of material into tool gaps. The study presented shows the effectiveness of different sealing materials and the ideal sealing geometry.
Dimensionierung von Lokalisierungsankern in Produktionssystemen
Authors: Wilsky Philipp , Clausnitzer Yvonne , Riedel Ralph
Published: August 2024

Localisation technologies in production environments require the positioning of anchors in the room. This article presents a planning approach that enables the necessary infrastructure to be quantified. To this end, we will show which localization technologies are used and explain from a scientific and practical perspective how the anchors are planned in a room. Finally, a practicable procedure including recommendations for action is presented, which should enable companies to carry out their own planning.
Post-Processing von additiv gefertigten Bauteilen
Authors: Köntopf Jakob , Reder Waldemar , Merkel Matthias , Uhlmann Eckart
Published: August 2024

The post-processing of additively manufactured metallic components is primarily performed manually, often resulting in insufficient component quality and high cost. The development of an automated process for removing particle adhesions using continuous and pulsed pure water jets offers a solution. This article describes the suitability of the process and the influence of the acting water jet forces as a function of the relevant process parameters.