bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolution of secondary cell number and position in the Drosophila accessory gland
Authors: Takashima Yoko A. , Majane Alex C. , Begun David J.
Published: October 2023

In animals with internal fertilization, males transfer gametes and seminal fluid during copulation, both of which are required for successful reproduction. InDrosophilaand other insects, seminal fluid is produced in the paired accessory gland (AG), the ejaculatory duct, and the ejaculatory bulb. TheD.melanogasterAG has emerged as an important model system for this component of male reproductive biology. Seminal fluid proteins produced in theDrosophilaAG are required for proper storage and use of sperm by the females, and are also critical for establishing and maintaining a suite of short- and long-term postcopulatory female physiological responses that promote reproductive success. TheDrosophilaAG is composed of two main cell types. The majority of AG cells, which are referred to as main cells, are responsible for production of many seminal fluid proteins. A minority of cells, about 4%, are referred to as secondary cells. These cells, which are restricted to the distal tip of theD.melanogasterAG, may play an especially important role in the maintenance of the long-term female post-mating response. Many studies ofDrosophilaAG evolution have suggested that the proteins produced in the gland evolve quickly, as does the transcriptome. Here, we investigate the evolution of secondary cell number and position in the AG in a collection of eight species spanning the entire history of theDrosophilagenus. We document a heretofore underappreciated rapid evolutionary rate for both number and position of these specialized AG cells, raising several questions about the developmental, functional, and evolutionary significance of this variation.
A meaningful everyday life experienced by adults with acquired neurological impairments: A scoping review
Authors: Aadal Lena , Hundborg Michele Offenbach , Pallesen Hanne , Steensgaard Randi
Published: October 2023

Objective

This scoping review explores the characteristics of a meaningful life appraised by adults living with an acquired neurological impairment.

Introduction

Limitations in function, activity or participation following a neurological injury or disease imposes comprehensive changes on the every-day life of the affected person and close relatives. Including patients’ perception of a meaningful life is pivotal to facilitate motivation and individualize rehabilitation efforts to address the patients’ wishes, hopes, needs, and preferences. Surprisingly, only little research has been devoted to illuminating what a meaningful life is from the impaired person’s perspective. Hence, a scoping review of existing knowledge is needed to facilitate person-centered high-quality rehabilitation and research initiatives.

Inclusion criteria

All studies, published in English or Scandinavian languages describing a meaningful life as experienced by adult persons with neurological impairment were included. No search date range filter was selected.

Methods

This review followed the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology for scoping reviews according to a published protocol. A three-step search strategy was conducted in the databases PubMed, Cinahl, PsycINFO and Embase. At least two independent researchers conducted inclusions and exclusions, data extraction, and analyses. Covidence software was used to manage the information.

Findings

We identified 307 studies. Of these, 20 were included and quality assessed. Findings are reported in accordance with the PRISMA- SCR checklist and descriptively presented mapped in three main domains and 10 ten sub-domains.

Conclusion

Current literature conveys no clear definition or perception of what a meaningful life is. However, across the 20 included studies, the following main characteristics were stepped forward as particularly significant for adults living with an acquired neurological impairment in regard to achieving a meaningful life: i) to be part of meaningful relationships and meaningful activities; ii) to become confident with one’s perceived identity.
Is there an indication for simultaneous bilateral knee arthroplasty in morbidly obese patients? Should the patients’ request for simultaneous operation be considered?
Authors: Akar Bedrettin
Published: October 2023

Purpose

This study aimed to analyse the safety of simultaneous bilateral total knee arthroplasty (SBTKA) surgery by comparing morbidly obese (MO) patients with obese patients.

Methods

SBTKA was performed to 494 patients by a single surgeon in a single center between 2014–2020. The patients followed for a mean of 26 months. They were divided into two groups according to body mass index (BMI) as MO (BMI> 40 kg/m2, n = 65) and obese(O) (BMI = 30–39.9 kg/m2, n = 429 patients). The groups were compared in terms of wound healing problems (WHP), mobilization time (MT), operation time (OT), prosthesis infection, aseptic loosening (AL), early complications, revision, and length of hospitalization using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses.

Results

Logistic regression analysis revealed significant differences in the clinical outcomes and complications between MO and O patients. Parameters such as length of stay, OT, MT, WHP, debridement, medial retinaculum detachment (MRD) and AL, and short-term complications such as acute kidney injury (AKI), and pulmonary embolism (PE) incidence were significantly higher in the MO group. Among the MO patients, the clinical outcomes were worse than those among the O patients, and the complication incidence was higher.

Conclusion

We do not find SBTKA surgery feasible in morbidly obese patients due to the high complication rate and unsatisfactory clinical outcomes. We suggest that the patient’s request to undergo SBTKA should not be taken into account, and that staged surgery be preferred.
GPC-100, a novel CXCR4 antagonist, improves in vivo hematopoietic cell mobilization when combined with propranolol
Authors: Sukhtankar Devki D. , Fung Juan José , Kim Mi-na , Cayton Thomas , Chiou Valerie , Caculitan Niña G. , Zalicki Piotr , Kim Sujeong , Jo Yoonjung , Kim SoHui , Lee Jae Min , Choi Junhee , Mun SeongGyeong , Chin Ashley , Jang Yongdae , Lee Ji Yeong , Kim Gowoon , Kim Eun Hee , Huh Won-Ki , Jeong Jae-Yeon , Seen Dong-Seung , Cardarelli Pina M.
Published: October 2023

Autologous Stem Cell Transplant (ASCT) is increasingly used to treat hematological malignancies. A key requisite for ASCT is mobilization of hematopoietic stem cells into peripheral blood, where they are collected by apheresis and stored for later transplantation. However, success is often hindered by poor mobilization due to factors including prior treatments. The combination of G-CSF and GPC-100, a small molecule antagonist of CXCR4, showed potential in a multiple myeloma clinical trial for sufficient and rapid collection of CD34+stem cells, compared to the historical results from the standards of care, G-CSF alone or G-CSF with plerixafor, also a CXCR4 antagonist. In the present study, we show that GPC-100 has high affinity towards the chemokine receptor CXCR4, and it potently inhibits β-arrestin recruitment, calcium flux and cell migration mediated by its ligand CXCL12. Proximity Ligation Assay revealed that in native cell systems with endogenous receptor expression, CXCR4 co-localizes with the beta-2 adrenergic receptor (β2AR). Co-treatment with CXCL12 and the β2AR agonist epinephrine synergistically increases β-arrestin recruitment to CXCR4 and calcium flux. This increase is blocked by the co-treatment with GPC-100 and propranolol, a non-selective beta-adrenergic blocker, indicating a functional synergy. In mice, GPC-100 mobilized more white blood cells into peripheral blood compared to plerixafor. GPC-100 induced mobilization was further amplified by propranolol pretreatment and was comparable to mobilization by G-CSF. Addition of propranolol to the G-CSF and GPC-100 combination resulted in greater stem cell mobilization than the G-CSF and plerixafor combination. Together, our studies suggest that the combination of GPC-100 and propranolol is a novel strategy for stem cell mobilization and support the current clinical trial in multiple myeloma registered as NCT05561751 atwww.clinicaltrials.gov.
Inter-rater reliability of a novel objective endpoint for benign central airway stenosis interventions: Segmentation-based volume rendering of computed tomography scans
Authors: Ratwani Ankush P. , Chen Heidi , Brown Leah , Schwartz Evan A. , Patel Khushbu , Guttentag Adam , McLaren Thomas A. , Sandler Kim L. , Rickman Otis B. , Shojaee Samira , Lentz Robert J. , Maldonado Fabien
Published: October 2023

Objectives

To evaluate the reliability of a novel segmentation-based volume rendering approach for quantification of benign central airway obstruction (BCAO).

Design

A retrospective single-center cohort study.

Setting

Data were ascertained using electronic health records at a tertiary academic medical center in the United States.

Participants and inclusion

Patients with airway stenosis located within the trachea on two-dimensional (2D) computed tomography (CT) imaging and documentation of suspected benign etiology were included. Four readers with varying expertise in quantifying tracheal stenosis severity were selected to manually segment each CT using a volume rendering approach with the available free tools in the medical imaging viewing software OsiriX (Bernex, Switzerland). Three expert thoracic radiologists were recruited to quantify the same CTs using traditional subjective methods on a continuous and categorical scale.

Outcome measures

The interrater reliability for continuous variables was calculated by the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) using a two-way mixed model with 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Results

Thirty-eight patients met the inclusion criteria, and fifty CT scans were selected for measurement. The most common etiology of BCAO was iatrogenic in 22 patients (58%). There was an even distribution of chest and neck CT imaging within our cohort. The average ICC across all four readers for the volume rendering approach was 0.88 (95% CI, 0.84 to 0.93), suggesting good to excellent agreement. The average ICC for thoracic radiologists for subjective methods on the continuous scale was 0.38 (95% CI, 0.20 to 0.55), suggesting poor to fair agreement. The kappa for the categorical approach was 0.26, suggesting a slight to fair agreement amongst the raters.

Conclusion

In this retrospective cohort study, agreement was good to excellent for raters with varying expertise in airway cross-sectional imaging using a novel segmentation-based volume rendering approach to quantify BCAO. This proposed measurement outperformed our expert thoracic radiologists using conventional subjective grading methods.
Male applicants are more likely to be awarded fellowships than female applicants: A case study of a Japanese national funding agency
Authors: Kyogoku Daisuke , Wada Yoko
Published: October 2023

Scientific grant applications are subjected to scholarly peer review. Studies show that the success rates of grant applications are often higher for male than for female applicants, suggesting that gender bias is common in peer review. However, these findings mostly come from studies in Europe, North America and Australia. Here we report the analyses of gender-specific success rates of applications to the fellowships offered by Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS). Because we analyze the observational data (i.e., not experimental), our aim here is to describe the possible gender gaps in the success rates, rather than the examination of gender bias per se. Results show that the success rates are consistently higher for male applicants than for female applicants among five different fellowship categories. The gender gaps in the success rates varied significantly between research fields in some Fellowship categories. Furthermore, in some fellowship categories, the gender gaps were significantly associated with the representation of female applicants (both positive and negative correlations were found). Though the causes of the gender gaps are unknown, unintentional gender bias during the review process is suggested. Pre-application gender gaps may also be contributing to the gender gaps in success rates. At least some of the observed gender gaps were relatively small, which may be partly explicable by the designs of the review process. However, gender gaps or biases acting prior to the application, such as self-selection bias, may have reduced the superficial gender gaps in the success rates. Further investigations that control for the effects of covariates (e.g., scientific merits of each applicant, which were not accessible to us) and those of other funding agencies, especially of non-Western countries, are warranted.
Roosters do not warn the bird in the mirror: The cognitive ecology of mirror self-recognition
Authors: Hillemacher Sonja , Ocklenburg Sebastian , Güntürkün Onur , Tiemann Inga
Published: October 2023

Touching a mark on the own body when seeing this mark in a mirror is regarded as a correlate of self-awareness and seems confined to great apes and a few further species. However, this paradigm often produces false-negative results and possibly dichotomizes a gradual evolutionary transition of self-recognition. We hypothesized that this ability is more widespread if ecologically tested and developed such a procedure for a most unlikely candidate: chickens (Gallus gallus domesticus). Roosters warn conspecifics when seeing an aerial predator, but not when alone. Exploiting this natural behavior, we tested individual roosters alone, with another male, or with a mirror while a hawk’s silhouette flew above them. Roosters mainly emitted alarm calls in the presence of another individual but not when alone or seeing themselves in the mirror. In contrast, our birds failed the classic mirror test. Thus, chickens possibly recognize their reflection as their own, strikingly showing how much cognition is ecologically embedded.
Human mobility on Cancun Island during the Late Postclassic: Intra- and inter-site demographic interactions
Authors: Cucina Andrea , Thornton Erin Kennedy , Ortega-Muñoz Allan
Published: October 2023

Residential mobility in Prehispanic Mesoamerica is of paramount importance in bioarchaeology to determine the “how, where and why” people established biological, political and economic networks. The goal of this paper is to assess the presence of non-local people on the East Coast of the Yucatan Peninsula during the Late Postclassic (AD 1200–1540), and how they might have been perceived by the local Maya people. We analyze the presence, origin and mortuary distribution of 50 individuals based on their dental and bone 87Sr/86Sr signatures in the “urban” assemblage constituted by the archaeological sites known as El Rey and San Miguelito on Isla Cancun. Both sites present a strontium ratio “plateau” between 0.7091 and 0.7092, which is considered the local signature. Seven individuals, ranging in age from 5 years old to adulthood, were detected as potentially non-local, and originating from a wide range of regions both near and distant to Isla Cancun. Funerary patterns, burial location, and dietary data do not indicate these people were treated differently from the rest of the population, at least at the moment of death. This suggests that these non-locals might not have been perceived as “foreigners” and that they had integrated into the local community. Such mobility and cultural integration could have motivated by multiple factors, including economic and trade connections, or kinship relationships.
Psychological resilience mediates the association between sleep quality and anxiety symptoms: A repeated measures study in college students
Authors: Cai Huangjie , Guo Jianhui , Zhou Jungu , Lai Yingqian
Published: October 2023

Objective

To explore the association between sleep quality and anxiety symptoms, and the mediation effect of psychological resilience on this association by a repeated measures study.

Methods

In this study, 127 college students were randomly recruited and their sleep quality and psychological status were repeatedly collected using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) scale, Connor-Davidson resilience scale (CD-RISC), and 7-items generalized anxiety disorder scale (GAD-7). Linear mixed-effects models were used to explore the association between sleep quality and anxiety symptoms, and a mediated effects analysis was used to explore the role played by psychological resilience in this association.

Results

This study found a positive association between sleep quality and anxiety symptoms (β = 0.40, 95% confidence interval: 0.27, 0.52). Psychological resilience scores and its various dimensions play a significant mediating role in this association.

Conclusions

Although the role of sleep quality in anxiety disorders is not fully understood, this study highlights the importance of improving sleep quality while enhancing psychological resilience to prevent the onset of anxiety symptoms in college students.
Evaluation of a novel lyophilized-pellet-based 2019-nCoV nucleic acid detection kit for the diagnosis of COVID-19
Authors: Xu Yiyuan , Xu Tian , Chen Shaoting , Yao Huakang , Chen Yuxiang , Zeng Yanfen , Chen Falin , Zhang Guanbin
Published: October 2023

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has swept the world and poses a serious threat to human health. In the post-pandemic-era, we must remain vigilant against the co-infection of SARS-CoV-2 and other respiratory viruses. More accurate and convenient detection methods are required for the diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 due to its prolonged existence. In this study, the application value of a novel lyophilized-pellet-based 2019-nCoV nucleic acid diagnostic kit (PCoV-Kit) was evaluated by comparing it with a conventional liquid diagnostic kit (LCoV-Kit). We assessed the sensitivity, precision, accuracy, specificity, and amplification efficiency of PCoV-Kit and LCoV-Kit using diluted SARS-CoV-2 RNA reference materials. The results showed that both kits had high sensitivity, precision, accuracy, and specificity. A total of 2,033 oropharyngeal swab specimens collected during mass screening in Fuzhou in December 2022 were applied for the consistency analysis of the two reagents. In the detection of clinical oropharyngeal swab specimens, although the positive rate of PCoV-Kit (19.28%) was slightly lower than that of LCoV-Kit (20.86%), statistical analysis demonstrated a high degree of consistency between the test results obtained using both kit (χ2 = 1.57, P>0.05; Kappa coefficient = 0.90, 95%CI: 0.88–0.93). In conclusion, the use of lyophilized PCoV-Kit provides a non-inferior assay for the diagnosis of COVID-19.
Malaria is the leading cause of acute kidney injury among a Zambian paediatric renal service cohort retrospectively evaluated for aetiologies, predictors of the need for dialysis, and outcomes
Authors: Mwaba Chisambo , Munsaka Sody , Bvulani Bruce , Mwakazanga David , Chiluba Brian Chanda , Fitzwanga Kaiser , Mpabalwani Evans
Published: October 2023

Background

Whilst malaria is a prominent aetiology associated with acute kidney injury (AKI) in many parts of Africa, a shift in the traditional AKI aetiologies has been witnessed in sections of the continent. Additionally, limited access to dialysis worsens patient outcomes in these low-resource settings. This retrospective cross-sectional study aimed to determine the associated aetiologies, predictors of need for dialysis and malaria-associated AKI (MAKI), and outcomes of AKI and dialysis among children evaluated by the renal service in Lusaka, Zambia.

Methods

The study sampled all children aged 16 years or below, diagnosed with AKI between 2017 and 2021, by the renal unit at the University Teaching Hospitals- Children’s Hospital (UTH-CH), and retrospectively abstracted their records for exposures and outcomes. AKI was defined using the Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) 2012 criteria. Frequency and percentage distributions were used to describe the occurrence of AKI aetiologies and treatment outcomes. Predictors of the need for dialysis, MAKI, and poor treatment outcome were identified by using multivariable logistic regression models.

Results

A total of 126 children diagnosed with AKI were included in this study. Malaria was the most frequent aetiology of AKI(61.1% (77/126, 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 52.0%-69.7%)). Of the 126 children with AKI, 74.6% (94) underwent dialysis. Predictors of the need for dialysis were oliguria (p = 0.0024; Odds ratio (OR) = 7.5, 95% CI: 2.1–27.7) and anuria (p = 0.0211; OR = 6.4, 95% CI = 1.3, 30.7). A fifth (18.3%, 23/126) of the children developed chronic kidney disease (CKD), 5.6% (7/126) died and, a year later, 77% (97/126) were lost to follow-up.

Conclusion

At UTH-CH, malaria is the most frequent aetiology among children with AKI undergoing dialysis and children from low-medium malaria incidence areas are at risk; a considerable proportion of children with AKI need dialysis and Tenchoff catheter use in AKI is advocated.
The caring experiences of family caregivers for patients with advanced cancer in Uganda: A qualitative study
Authors: Najjuka Sarah Maria , Iradukunda Angelique , Kaggwa Mark Mohan , Sebbowa Anastacia Nabyonga , Mirembe Joy , Ndyamuhaki Kennedy , Nakibuule Catherine , Atuhaire Joan Patience , Nabirye Elizabeth , Namukwaya Elizabeth , Kiguli Sarah
Published: October 2023

Background

Cancer morbidity and mortality is rising in sub-Saharan Africa. Given this rise, family caregivers play an integral role in provision of quality cancer care services. This study explored the family caregivers (FCGs)/relatives’ experiences of caring for patients with advanced cancer (stage 3 or stage 4) in Uganda.

Methods

This was a descriptive qualitative study exploring the lived experiences of FCGs of patients with advanced cancer attending care at the Uganda cancer institute. We purposively recruited twelve FCGs and conducted face-to-face in-depth interviews using an interviewer-guided semi-structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed by thematic analysis

Results

The age range of participants was 19 to 49 years. Most participants were children of the patients (n = 7), had attained tertiary education (n = 7), and had taken care of their loved ones for at least one year (n = 10). Six themes emerged from data analysis; (i) caring roles, (ii) caring burdens, (iii) role conflict, (iv) health system tensions, (v) support and motivation, (vi) caring benefits, lessons and recommendations.

Conclusion

Study findings highlight the fundamental role of FCGs in the care of their loved ones, and illuminate the neglected physical, psychological and social challenges of family caregivers amidst health system tensions and conflicting roles. The needs of family caregivers should be embedded within cancer care, prevention and control programs particularly in low resource settings.
Gender-based differences in decision making, quality of life and survival among patients undergoing left ventricular assist device evaluation
Authors: Kim Joseph M. , Maqsood Muhammad H. , Makuvire Tracy , McIlvennan Colleen K. , Thompson Jocelyn S. , Matlock Daniel D. , Allen Larry A. , Warraich Haider J.
Published: October 2023

Background

Women are less likely to receive left ventricular assist devices and are more likely to experience poor outcomes. However, how gender impacts LVAD decision-making regarding LVAD implantation and the effects of that decision remains unknown.

Methods

We performed a sub-group analysis from the stepped-wedge DECIDE-LVAD trial, which tested a decision-support intervention for patients considering LVAD therapy.

Results

Excluding 9 patients who withdrew from assessments, of the 239 patients analyzed, 203 (85%) were men and 36 (15%) were women. More men received LVADs (70%) than women (61%) and more men were alive at 6 months compared to women, both among those who received LVADs (87% vs 82%) and those who did not (74% vs 50%) (p = 0.002). Compared to men, women were more likely to have decision regret, depressive symptoms and perceived stress at baseline but not at follow-up. At 6-month follow-up, men experience improvements in decisional conflict, acceptance of illness, struggle with illness, and perceived stress–none of those improvements were noted amongst women. Compared to men who received LVADs, women receiving LVADs had worse decision regret and depressive symptoms at baseline and worse acceptance of illness and perceived stress at six months. Men who received LVADs experienced improvement in decisional conflict and perceived stress, while women did not experience these improvements. Both men and women who received LVADs experienced improvement in depressive symptoms. Quality of life as assessed by EuroQol visual analog scale improved for both men and women who received LVADs but not for those who did not receive LVADs; no gender differences in quality of life were noted.

Conclusion

Women require greater decisional support at time of decision to undergo LVAD implantation and subsequently might benefit from more intensive psychosocial support.
Features of digital signal processing algorithms using Galois fields GF(2n+1)
Authors: Suleimenov Ibragim E. , Vitulyova Yelizaveta S. , Matrassulova Dinara K.
Published: October 2023

An alternating representation of integers in binary form is proposed, in which the numbers -1 and +1 are used instead of zeros and ones. It is shown that such a representation creates considerable convenience for multiplication numbers modulo p = 2n+1. For such numbers, it is possible to implement a multiplication algorithm modulo p, similar to the multiplication algorithm modulo the Mersenne number. It is shown that for such numbers a simple algorithm for digital logarithm calculations may be proposed. This algorithm allows, among other things, to reduce the multiplication operation modulo a prime number p = 2n+1 to an addition operation.
Reasons individuals stop eating questionnaire (RISE-Q) among adults in the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Ismail Leila Cheikh , Osaili Tareq M. , Salem Hanan , Abdelrahim Mona , Gamaleldin Nadin , Shalfawi Noor , Nasser Razan , Daour Tala Al , Mohamad Maysm N. , Saleh Sheima T. , Daour Rameez Al , Sabbah Haleama Al , Ajab Abir , Stojanovska Lily , Dhaheri Ayesha Al
Published: October 2023

The relationship between obesity and satiation is complex and bidirectional. Understanding differences in reasons for meal termination may enhance our understanding of overeating risks and susceptibility to overconsumption. This study aimed to investigate the reasons why individuals in the UAE stop eating. A cross-sectional web-based study was conducted among adults ≥18 years in the UAE (n = 1482). Using a self-administered online questionnaire, we collected information on sociodemographic characteristics, lifestyle habits, and eating behavior using the Reasons Individuals Stop Eating—Questionnaire (RISE-Q-15) used twice for breakfast/main meal. The items were categorized into five scales; decreased food appeal (DFA), physical satisfaction (PS), planned amount (PA), self-consciousness (SC), and decreased priority of eating (DPE). All items were scored from 1 to 7 ranging between 3 to 21 on each scale. A paired t-test was used to evaluate the difference between the RISE-Q scores on each scale concerning the two meals. The main reason why participants stopped eating breakfast was under the PS scale (14.91 ± 3.72), followed by the PA scale (14.58 ± 3.00). The main reason why participants stopped eating main meals was under the PS scale (14.78 ± 3.56), followed by the PA scale (14.77 ± 43.81). The mean score of the DPE scale was significantly higher for breakfast than the main meal (p = 0.038). More than half of the participants reported an average eating rate (58.7%). Pearson’s chi-square analysis revealed that the eating rate was dependent on BMI (p<0.001). Considering individual mealtimes and addressing factors related to PS and PA of food is crucial when designing nutrition interventions aiming to promote healthy eating habits among adults in the UAE.
Science journalism and a multi-directional science-policy-society dialogue are needed to foster public awareness for biodiversity and its conservation
Authors: Geschke Jonas , Rillig Matthias C. , Böhning-Gaese Katrin , Potthast Thomas , Arth Adina , Dicks Lynn V. , Habekuss Fritz , Kleinschmit Daniela , Lesch Harald , Spehn Eva M. , Wenzel Silvio , Fischer Markus , Klein Alexandra-Maria
Published: October 2023

Biodiversity is the manifestation of life on our planet and provides manifold benefits for humans. Yet we destroy ecosystems and drive species to extinction. We submit that anthropogenic biodiversity loss does not yet receive sufficient public attention, although biodiversity conservation and its sustainable use are key to mitigate global crises. Effective communication of biodiversity-related knowledge with diverse audiences is therefore crucial and should contribute to ensuring that evidence guides environmental decision-making. In this context, it is essential to stimulate multi-directional dialogues between science, policy, and society. Here, we suggest Dos and Don’ts that can guide science communication for scientists working in biodiversity research and beyond. Moreover, we emphasize the role of science journalism and other institutions specialized in science communication in critically mediating the complexity of scientific knowledge.
Sissies and lost pardners: Issues of masculinity and male queerness in the early Western
Authors: Brown Shane
Published: October 2023

During the silent and early sound era, the Western became one of the most popular genres, making stars of actors like William S. Hart and Tom Mix. The genre ranged from epic Westerns such as The Covered Wagon (1923) and The Iron Horse (1924) through to quickly made B-movies, and even on to short parodies. The Western emerged from the silent era with a maturity not present in other genres, and its appeal only grew during the pre-code talkie era. At the same time, American film was exploring male sexuality and gender norms in a way that it would not be able to do again for several decades. This article traces the relationship between images of male queerness and intimacy within the Western during the first four decades of American filmmaking, from the early short films of 1894 through to the introduction of the Production Code in 1934.
Translating a Monster: Motherhood and Horror Criteria in Ringu and The Ring
Authors: Carter Johanna
Published: October 2023

Monsters constitute an essential aspect of any society, but their imprinted cultural body causes them to fulfill different roles in different cultures. By remaking a monster from a different culture, the mutated entity will fail to reproduce the same meanings since many symbols will be lost in cultural appropriation and faulty translation. This article analyzes such loss of meaning in the portrayal of one relevant monster in Eastern culture (the onryō) in a Western context of horror movie mania, decoding the underlying gender politics ingrained in the Japanese movie and its Hollywood remake The Ring ().
Resonant Bodies in Contemporary European Art Cinema, Emilija Talijan (2022)
Authors: Baker Nate
Published: October 2023

Review of: Resonant Bodies in Contemporary European Art Cinema, Emilija Talijan (2022)

Edinburgh: Edinburgh University Press, 200pp., ISBN: 9781474483452 (hbk), $110.00, ISBN: 9781474483483 (ebk), $100.00, ISBN: 9781474483476 (pdf), $100.00
This Is Not a Burial, It’s a Resurrection (2019)
Authors: Albright Kathryn
Published: October 2023

Review of: This Is Not a Burial, It’s a Resurrection (2019)

South Africa/Italy/USA/Kingdom of Lesotho

Director Lemohang Jeremiah Mosese

Runtime 122 minutes

Blu-ray

USA, 2023

Distributed by The Criterion Collection (region A/1)
Efeito dos incêndios florestais no ecossistema: revisão integrativa
Authors: Fidalgo António , Fernandes Ana Sá
Published: October 2023

A crescente recorrência dos incêndios florestais e o aumento da sua severidade representa um enorme desafio para a regeneração natural os ecossistemas. O impacto que os incêndios florestais provocam são hoje considerados um problema de ordem mundial. Sejam consequências com efeitos diretos ou indiretos, certo é o seu impacto no quotidiano, na comunidade, na economia, no meio ambiente e no ser humano. É sabido que a severidade do fogo provoca alterações em diferentes aspetos do ecossistema do qual se salienta as alterações na paisagem, nas propriedades bioquímicas, nas propriedades físico-químicas e dos nutrientes do solo. No desenvolvimento deste estudo tínhamos como objetivo realizar uma revisão da literatura para conhecer os principais efeitos dos incêndios florestais no ecossistema.
Perceção do risco de incêndio em espaços rurais associado à utilização de artigos pirotécnicos
Authors: Bazenga André , Miranda Góis José Carlos
Published: October 2023

Afim de reduzir o risco de incêndio está estabelecido por lei, em Portugal, que durante o período crítico é proibido utilizar balões de mecha acesa e quaisquer tipos de foguetes, e que em todos os espaços rurais a utilização de fogo de artifício e outros artefactos pirotécnicos está sujeita a autorização prévia da respetiva câmara municipal. Desta forma passou-se a utilizar outras tipologias de artigos pirotécnicos nos espetáculos de fogo de artifício. Porém, muitos espetáculos não têm sido autorizados devido à perceção que os responsáveis por algumas câmaras municipais têm sobre o risco de incêndio atribuído à utilização de artigos pirotécnicos. Este trabalho teve por objetivo perceber qual a perceção que as principais entidades envolvidas na autorização e licenciamento de espetáculos de fogo de artifício têm sobre o risco de incêndio durante o período crítico associado à utilização de artigos pirotécnicos. Foi analisada a legislação relevante e os estudos realizados pela ADAI, fizeram-se questionários às diferentes entidades e analisou-se a envolvente de diversos locais de lançamento, tendo-se concluído ser necessário formação e interação entre entidades.
Minimizar o risco de fogo em amontoados de sobrantes florestais, através da educação escolar
Authors: Talaia Mário
Published: October 2023

O abandono da limpeza de campos florestais favoreceu o aumento do risco de incêndio. No passado, o tipo de vida nas aldeias levava ao uso de mato florestal o que permitia a limpeza de terrenos rurais. Este trabalho apresenta vetores para o risco de fogo em amontoados de sobrantes florestais. É apresentado um algoritmo construído para compreender se no local se regista a formação da condensação de vapor de água. Foram realizadas entrevistas com base num questionário elaborado para uma comunidade de residentes de aldeia para conhecer a experiência de fazerem fogo de queima de amontoados. É sugerida uma proposta para a formação de cidadania e para a educação escolar, na área da formação no que respeita aos itens que condicionam a preparação e a prevenção para a queima de amontoados.
Introduction
Authors:   University of the Western Cape, Krog Antjie
Published: October 2023

As part of a poetry caravan organised from UWC with international and South African poets, readings were done in four Cape Flats libraries with the poets of that area. Many poems were about rape. Unforgettable still, was a young girl standing with her back to the audience while reading and shivering. A poet from Morocco asked: is rape a big thing in South Africa? It was and it wasn’t. Because it was surfacing in news stories, or as part of testimonies in court cases, it was common knowledge; but it was not in literature. About ten years later, I began to receive more and more manuscripts around this theme, but felt myself swamped with doubt and questions and unable to really assist. How should one write about it? Should it be beautiful? Should the act itself be described? And if so, how that it is not titillating? Should the narrative have a structure? What other texts are there to read that describe a rape as it should or could be described? Is there a ‘blue print’ of how to write abuse? Can one ever write effectively about being beaten? Is that even something to say?
Exploring Carotenoid from Rhodococcus Kroppenstedtii as a Photosensitizer in a Dye Sensitised Solar Cell
Authors: Lilwani Simran R , Khan Muzammil Ahmad Shaikh , R. Parvathi J. , Vernekar Madhavi R.
Published: October 2023

A Dye-Sensitised Solar Cell (DSSC) is a low-cost thin film solar cell that works in diffused light and comes in a variety of colors. Most of the investigations on organic dye-based DSSC have used pigments from flowers and fruits as photosensitizers. With the majority of the world's economy reliant on agriculture to meet the food and feed demand, using agricultural resources for color extraction is not a realistic solution. Alternative dye resources, such as microorganisms, must thus be investigated in DSSCs to ensure a long-term future. The present study was a preliminary investigation to explore the potential of carotenoids derived from an actinobacteria Rhodococcus kroppenstedtii as a photosensitizer in a DSSC. The carotenoid extract from R. kroppenstedtii was subjected to stability analysis, to ascertain its potential as a photosensitizer. The extract was found to be stable at varying temperatures (0-80 °C), pH (3-11), and light conditions (dark, white light, sunlight), indicating its potential applicability as a photosensitizer. Further, increasing concentrations (12.5 mg/mL-100 mg/mL) of the extract was used for sensitization of TiO 2 in a DSSC assembly. The extract showed a linear rise in power output (078±0.0001 - 20.75±0.0003 mW), which proposes its scope as a stable and cheap photosensitizer in a DSSC.
The Multifaceted Role of Senescence Marker Protein 30 in Health and Diseases
Authors: Mukherjee Sudisha , Dutta Roshan Kumar , Gupta Rinkoo Devi
Published: October 2023

Senescence marker protein 30 (SMP30) is an age-linked marker protein, the expression of which declines with aging. SMP30 binds with calcium; however, the absence of a calcium-binding EF-hand motif makes it different from other calcium-binding proteins like calmodulin. Interestingly, previous studies have shown that it binds with other divalent metal co-factors also and catalyzes the cyclisation of L-gulonate required for the biosynthesis of ascorbate in non-primates. Remarkably, SMP30 is conserved among vertebrates indicating that it isa crucial protein performing certain physiological functions. Apparently, in primates, including humans, calcium homeostasis could be the primary function of SMP30 due to the absence of ascorbic acid biosynthesis in these species. In this review, we have discussed the expression pattern of SMP30 in various cells and tissues. SMP30 expression is modulated by different internal and external factors, which we have extensively discussed here. Subsequently, its role in calcium homeostasis, cell proliferation, apoptosis, and liver regeneration has also been explored. Further, the potentiality of SMP30 as a prophylactic agent against organophosphorus nerve agent poisoning has been elucidated due to its organophosphate hydrolysing activity as a promiscuous substrate.
Aero structural and Electromagnetic Design Optimisation of Maritime Patrol Aircraft Radome Using Direct Search Algorithms
Authors: Shankar M.R. , Niranjanappa A.C. , Dattaguru B.
Published: October 2023

Airborne surveillance systems such as Maritime Patrol Aircraft are deployed by armed forces to collect surveillance information on airborne and sea surface enemy targets. Airborne Electronically Scanned Array Radar is an electromagnetic sensor integrated on this aircraft. The antenna of this radar is installed generally in belly of a turboprop aircraft. An electro-magnetically transparent cover, called radome, protects this antenna to protect itfrom various environmental effects, like rain, dust, etc. Installation of the radome results in additional drag, weightand electromagnetic signal loss. The Pareto optimality involving three design disciplines of structure, erodynamicsand electromagnetics is attempted with direct search optimisation algorithm NSGA II.
Simulation Model for Studying the Effect of Function Distribution on the Evaluation of Building Damage Caused by Missile Attack
Authors: Zhai Chenglin , Chen Xiaowei
Published: October 2023

When a building is hit by a missile, the most important parts are usually destroyed first to achieve maximum damage to the functions of the building. To accurately quantify the damage to a building, a function distribution density is constructed to describe the importance of different parts, and is applied to the probability damage calculation of a building under a missile strike. Based on the objective characteristics, the building is divided into several modules. The importance of the different modules is calculated using the damage tree. The distribution densities of the physical and system functions are constructed separately and combined into the function distribution density of the building. Meanwhile, the landing points of the missile are simulated using the Monte Carlo method, and depending on whether the function distribution density is considered, a probability damage calculation is performed. In comparison, the calculation results considering the function distribution density have a larger irregular shape, which can describe the damage to the building more accurately. This study can provide support for improving the physical protection of buildings and ensuring the operational reliability of their functions.
A Comparative Study on various Flight Termination System Technologies
Authors: Priyadarshini Sushree , Gourab Mohapatra Kumar , Mandal Utpal , Roy Angshuman
Published: October 2023

In a test range, a Flight Termination System (FTS) plays a prominent role in protecting range and flight personnel along with surrounding area population in case the flight vehicle is out of its trajectory range and possesses a threat to surrounding. An efficient FTS should posses high Signal to Noise Ratio, link robustness to ensure reliable communication between ground transmitting and onboard receiving systems and should be immune to interference. This article presents a detailed report on the requirement and features of FTS & technologies used in it. Techniques such as tone based, code based and Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) are considered. Analysis of RF spectrum, gain and noise figure measurement and channel power are presented. Advanced methods like Enhanced Flight Termination System (EFTS) and Autonomous Flight Termination System (AFTS) are considered which show supportable and upgradable technologies, better range understanding, unique vehicle id & higher data rate. AFTS being self-reliant provides superior performance in terms of GPS, launch responsiveness, multiple flight vehicle control and auto pilot.
Effect of Twin Island Configuration on Airwake Aerodynamics over Generic Aircraft Carrier using CFD
Authors: Nehra Ankit , Rajagopalan Vijayakumar
Published: October 2023

The technological advancements have led to the evolution of numerous concepts in an aircraft carrier’s topdeck design, the twin island concept being the latest entrant. An aircraft carrier’s bluff body geometry presents many challenges to the pilot, landing on deck being the most critical. The present study aims to undertake a computational investigation of the aerodynamic analysis of a Twin Island GAC (Generic Aircraft Carrier) conceptualized vis- à-vis its base variant. The flow over the twin island GAC flight deck and downstream is analysed using various transverse planes perpendicular to the flow direction as detailed in the paper. Subsequently, a parametric study was undertaken for understanding the effects of longitudinal translations of the two islands with respect to the baseline GAC position. The results depict the advantage of certain variants of twin islands over a single island, and ~68 % reduction in turbulence is achieved along the glideslope by one of the variations which could aid in reducing pilot workload. The data can act as a catalyst for utilization and incorporation in future floating platform designs and further studies in this field.
Simulation of Explosion Crater of Earth Penetrating Nuclear Bomb Based on Equivalency to TNT Mass
Authors: Wang Liangquan , Kong Deren , Shang Fei , Zhang Chuyang
Published: October 2023

The structure size of the crater formed by the earth-penetrating nuclear bomb explosion is one of the important parameters for evaluating the earth-penetrating nuclear bomb damage power. Obtaining the structure size of the crater formed by the earth-penetrating nuclear bomb explosion with different yields is great significance for the evaluation and design of the nuclear bomb damage power. In this study, considering the contradictory relationship between the structure size of the earth-penetrating nuclear bomb and the structure size of the equivalent TNT mass, we propose to use the equivalent energy mapping method to realize the finite element numerical simulation of the earth-penetrating nuclear bomb exploding into craters analyzed and compared the simulation results with the structure size of the crater formed by the ESS nuclear bomb explosion in the United States. The analysis results show that the error between the simulated crater radius and the real crater radius is 3.26%, and the error between the simulated crater depth and the real crater depth is 28.57 %. It meets the calculation accuracy error range of crater formation from nuclear explosion to chemical explosion. Therefore, this method provides an effective numerical simulation method and a means of obtaining the structural size data of the explosion crater for the earth-penetrating nuclear bomb cratering.
Detection of Abnormal Vessel Behaviours Based on AIS Data Features Using HDBSCAN+
Authors: Kumar R. Hari , Ramanarayanan CP , Murthy K.S.R.R.P.
Published: October 2023

Achieving maritime security is challenging due to the vastness and complexity of the domain. Monitoring all Achieving maritime security is challenging due to the vastness and complexity of the domain. Monitoringall vessels that use this medium is humanly impossible but is needed for law enforcement. This paper proposes amachine learning solution based on HDBSCAN+ to classify the movements of vessels into ‘normal’ or ‘abnormal’.This classification reduces the number of vessels that have to be monitored by law enforcement agencies to amanageable size. To date, AIS is the primary source of information that can represent vessel movements andenable the detection of maritime anomalies. The proposed model uses latitude, longitude, type of vessel, courseand speed as features of the AIS data for analysis. The performance of the proposed model is validated against the marine incidents reported by Information Fusion Centre-Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR). The proposed model has successfully detected the incidents reported by IFC-IOR.