bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Forward modeling of direct-current resistivity data on unstructured grids using an adaptive mimetic finite-difference method
Authors: Jahandari Hormoz , Lelièvre Peter , Farquharson Colin G.
Published: April 2023

An effective solver for the direct-current (DC) resistivity forward-modeling problem should be capable of accommodating arbitrary electrode layouts, adapting the mesh to topography and complex geologic structures, and adaptively refining the mesh to ensure high solution accuracy. We use the capability of the mimetic finite-difference method in naturally accommodating meshes with nonconforming elements to develop adaptive and parallel cell-based (CB) and vertex-based (VB) mimetic schemes for the forward modeling of DC resistivity data on unstructured meshes. A diffusion problem in mixed form and Poisson’s problem are solved in the CB and VB schemes, respectively. The mesh adaptivity involves an iterative h-refinement conducted by a regular subdivision of the marked elements together with a 2-irregularity condition. Goal-oriented residual- and gradient-based error estimators are used to mark the elements for refinement in the CB and VB schemes, respectively. To evaluate the accuracy and efficiency of the mimetic schemes, we use two benchmark models with analytical solutions and standard linear and quadratic finite-element solutions. The numerical results for apparent resistivity from both mimetic schemes accurately approximate the reference analytical and numerical values. Furthermore, on similar meshes, the VB mimetic scheme is found to be less demanding than the CB method in terms of computational resource requirement. We also develop a grid-based mesh generation technique based on the body-centered cubic lattice to generate high-quality initial meshes. Using benchmark examples, we validate this mesh generation method and demonstrate its versatility by discretizing a model of a thin dike where a standard Delaunay mesh generator fails to generate a mesh. Moreover, we display the effectiveness of the presented mimetic approach and the grid-based mesh generation technique using a realistic example with topography and parallelization over a large number of sources.
Development of the aganglionic colon following surgical rescue in a cell therapy model of Hirschsprung disease in rat
Authors: Furness John B. , Lei Enie , Hunne Billie , Adams Cameron D. , Burns Alan J. , Wykosky Jill , Fazio Coles Therese E. , Fothergill Linda J. , Molero Juan C. , Pustovit Ruslan V. , Stamp Lincon A.
Published: April 2023

Patients with Hirschsprung disease lack enteric ganglia in the distal colon and propulsion of colorectal content is substantially impaired. Proposed stem cell therapies to replace neurons require surgical bypass of the aganglionic bowel during re-colonization, but there is inadequate knowledge of the consequences of bypass. We performed bypass surgery in Ednrb−/− Hirschsprung rat pups. Surgically rescued rats failed to thrive, an outcome reversed by supplying electrolyte- and glucose-enriched drinking water. Histologically, the bypassed colon had normal structure, but grew substantially less in diameter than the functional region proximal to the bypass. Extrinsic sympathetic and spinal afferent neurons projected to their normal targets, including arteries and the circular muscle, in aganglionic regions. However, although axons of intrinsic excitatory and inhibitory neurons grew into the aganglionic region, their normally dense innervation of circular muscle was not restored. Large nerve trunks that contained tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)-, calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP, encoded by Calca or Calcb)-, neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS or NOS1)-, vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP)- and tachykinin (encoded by Tac1)-immunoreactive axons occurred in the distal aganglionic region. We conclude that the rescued Ednrb−/− rat provides a good model for the development of cell therapies for the treatment of Hirschsprung disease.
Search for lepton flavour universality violation in rare B meson decays, with the CMS detector at LHC
Authors: Καραθανάσης Γεώργιος
Published: April 2023

Στην παρούσα διατριβή, παρουσιάζεται η διερεύνηση ύπαρξης φαινομένων Φυσικής πέραν του Καθιερωμένου Προτύπου (ΚΠ) κυρίως σε σπάνιες διασπάσεις των φορτισμένων μεσονίων Β. Τα δεδομένα που χρησιμοποιήθηκαν συλλέχθηκαν το 2018 με τον ανιχνευτή CMS (Compact Muon Solenoid), σε συγκρούσεις πρωτονίων με ενέργεια κέντρου μάζας 13 TeV. Στο ΚΠ οι διασπάσεις Β±→ ℓ+ℓ–Κ± (όπου ℓ=m,e) απαγορεύονται σε πρώτη τάξη, αφού αντιστοιχούν σε ουδέτερα ρεύματα που αλλάζουν την λεπτονική γεύση (Flavour Changing Neutral Currents), ενώ επιτρέπονται μέσω κβαντικών διορθώσεων, γεγονός που τις καθιστά εξαιρετικά σπάνιες, με ρυθμό διάσπασης Ο(10-7). Στη συγκεκριμένη ανάλυση, με στόχο τη μείωση των συστηματικών αβεβαιοτήτων στη θεωρία, μετράται το κλάσμα των ρυθμών διάσπασης Β±→ m+m–Κ± και Β±→ e+e–Κ± αντί των απόλυτων ρυθμών. Επιπλέον, για την περαιτέρω μείωση των πειραματικών συστηματικών αβεβαιοτήτων, ο αριθμητής και ο παρονομαστής διαιρούνται με τον ρυθμό διάσπασης της διαδικασίας Β→J/ψΚ ακολουθούμενης από J/ψ→ ℓ+ℓ–, δημιουργώντας έτσι το διπλό κλάσμα που είναι γνωστό ως RK. Η μέτρηση τόσο σπάνιων διαδικασιών απαιτεί την συλλογή πολύ μεγάλου αριθμού γεγονότων, της τάξεως Ο(1010) που είναι αδύνατο με τον συνήθη τρόπο σκανδαλισμού και επεξεργασίας γεγονότων. Για αυτό αναπτύχθηκε μια ειδική διαδικασία σκανδαλισμού που κατάφερε να συλλέξει ένα σταθερό ρυθμό 2 kHz δεδομένων που αποθηκεύονταν μέχρι να βρεθούν οι υπολογιστικοί πόροι για την ανακατασκευή τους. Η συγκεκριμένη τεχνική, έγινε γνωστή ως “Β Parking” διότι τα γεγονότα αποθηκεύονται για πολύ μεγάλο χρονικό διάστημα μέχρι να επεξεργαστούν και χρησιμοποιήθηκε για πρώτη φορά για τόσο μεγάλο αριθμό γεγονότων. Συνολικά συλλέχθηκαν 1.2⨯1010 ξεπερνώντας των αρχικό στόχο κατά 20%. Από την επεξεργασία των αποτελεσμάτων αυτής της μέτρησης εξάγονται δύο μετρήσεις: αφενός το RK, με περιορισμένη ακρίβεια και αφετέρου ο απόλυτος ρυθμός της διαδικασίας Β±→m+m–Κ± με τη μεγαλύτερη μέχρι σήμερα ακρίβεια. Στην διατριβή περιγράφεται επίσης ένας νέος αλγορίθμος ανακατασκευής ηλεκτρονίων, που αναπτύχθηκε στα πλαίσια της μέτρησης του RK. Επίσης, περιγράφεται μία δεύτερη ανάλυση Φυσικής στην οποία διερευνάται η ύπαρξη της Υπερσυμμετρίας σε γεγονότα με δύο λεπτόνια χαμηλής εγκάρσιας ορμής και μέτριας ελλείπουσας ενέργειας. Η ανάλυση πραγματοποιήθηκε κατά το έτος 2017 και 2018, με δεδομένα που συλλέχθηκαν το 2016, και ήταν η πρώτη ανάλυση που εξέτασε τον συγκεκριμένο φασικό χώρο.
Separation Distance for Frequency Coexistence between Unsynchronized Time Division Duplex 5G Private Networks at 4.7 GHz
Authors: Kim Hyuk-Je , Lee Il-Kyoo
Published: April 2023

Frequency sharing problems may occur between neighboring networks when multiple operators build 5G private networks within a specific region. The interference between time division duplex (TDD) 5G private networks depends on various factors, such as frequency channels, synchronization, and building entry loss (BEL). In this study, we propose separation distances at which two 5G private networks in close proximity can coexist. The amount of interference according to the separation distance between the two 5G private networks was simulated by the Monte Carlo (MC) method. When the two networks operated in an outdoor environment and had different channels, there was a minimum interference effect even if the cell radii of the two networks overlap. However, the separation distance between networks using the same channel was simulated to be approximately 500 m. The TDD synchronization of two networks using the same channel reduced the separation distance to approximately 100 m. The additional radio wave attenuation by the BEL reduced the amount of interference, allowing frequency coexistence between networks even within the cell radii.
O precyzji pojęć przekładoznawczych
Authors: Lewicki Roman
Published: April 2023

ON THE PRECISION OF TRANSLATIONAL TERMSOne of the current negative phenomena of translation studies (not only in our country) is the disorder of the conceptual apparatus. Significant differences in the use of terminology are the reason for insufficient precision of speech. Regardless of the reasons for this state of affairs, it is worth looking at the most annoying cases of this type and trying to organize the special terms. The paper contains such attempts in relation to Polish terms: ‘przekład’ vs. ‘tłumaczenie’ (both Eng. ‘translation’), ‘ekwiwalencja’ vs. ‘adekwatność’ (‘equivalence’ vs. ‘adequacy‘), equivalent vs. translat, realities vs. names of realities, invariant of translation.
Refrakcja refrakcji
Authors: Luboń Arkadiusz
Published: April 2023

REFRACTING THE REFRACTION: ANDRZEJ BUSZA’S TRANSLATION THEORY AND THE CANON OF CONTEMPORARY TRANSLATION STUDIES
The article discusses the less-known theory of translation put forward by Andrzej Busza – a Polish-Canadian writer and translator, professor of University of British Columbia and co-founder of “Kontynenty” group in London. Busza, also esteemed as a poet and scholar studying the writings of Joseph Conrad, presented his views on translation theory in his essay published in Polish in 1983. Although the essay discusses the issue of semantic refraction in poetry translation, Busza’s interpretation of the term is different from the one proposed year earlier (1982) by André Lefevere. Thus, the article provides a comparative analysis of both ideas, viewing Busza’s concept as the first contemporary variant of the notion of “refraction” in Polish translation studies.
Transkreacja w Indiach i Brazylii
Authors: Borowski Gabriel
Published: April 2023

TRANSCREATION IN INDIA AND BRAZIL: ON THE CONCEPTS OF PURUSHOTTAMA LALA AND HAROLDO DE CAMPOS The study aims to compare the concepts of transcreation developed in India and Brazil. The first, more extensive part of the article introduces the profile of Indian translator, poet, essayist, and publisher Purushottama Lal (1929-2010) and attempts to outline his concept of transcreation, which seems to have not been introduced to Polish translation scholars so far. The second part seeks to sketch the most significant differences between Lal’s concept and the ideas of Brazilian translation theorist, translator, and poet Haroldo de Campos (1929-2003). The analysis allows us to conclude that, despite their surprising lexical and chronological convergence, these concepts developed independently and exhibit a number of fundamental differences, which, as indicated by bibliographic reconnaissance, have not yet been discussed in the humanities.
Labor Resource Volatility in the Implementation of the Strategy of Postwar Reconstruction of the National Labor Market of Ukraine
Authors:   PSTU ", Mishchenko S. ,   Pryazovskyi State Technical University", Kapranova L. ,   PSTU "Pryazovskyi State Technical University", Sedikov D. ,   Odesa National University of Technology, Nahornyi D. ,   Institute of Market and Economic&Ecological Researches of the NAS of Ukraine
Published: April 2023

The article is devoted to the study of manifestations of labor resource volatility in the labor market of Ukraine, determination of post-war approaches to regulation in the conditions of labor resource volatility. The paper outlines the trend of output (demographic) labor resource volatility of the modern labor market, and proposes approaches to implementing the strategy of post-war recovery of the national labor market of Ukraine in the context of labor resource volatility through a set of institutions. It is concluded that in the context of labor resource volatility of the Ukrainian labor market, effective post-war regulation of supply and demand is possible with the use of a territorial-spatial approach to regulation, built on the basis of predicted geodemographic processes and a vertically integrated system of institutions united by a common national strategy for overcoming labor resource volatility.
Modern Methods of Information Support for the Development of Productive Cluster Ecosystems
Authors:   Institute of Industrial Economics of the NAS of Ukraine, Utkin V. P.
Published: April 2023

The article presents modern information support mechanisms for the development of productive cluster ecosystems. The role of informational support for SMEs with the aim of restoring the export component of Ukrainian commodity producers on foreign markets has been revealed. The relevance of a set of regular measures of informational support and financial assistance to small and medium-sized businesses with the identification of the most successful international programs is emphasized. The article reveals the role of the cluster committee (association), whose functions include information support and provision of state support. Ways to activate the processes of cluster mobilization are indicated, which should become an impetus for the systematic use of new opportunities within the framework of strategy 4.0, and the stages of launching innovative ecosystems, ensuring their productivity and compliance with strategic development tasks are also defined.
Transformation of Consumption in the Context of Technology Adaptation in the Information and Network Economy
Authors:   Ukrainian State University of Chemical Technology, Dubnytskyi V. , Mishustina T. ,   Alfred Nobel University, Ovcharenko O. ,   Alfred Nobel University, Naumenko N. ,   Ukrainian State University of Chemical Technology
Published: April 2023

The article identifies the global prerequisites for the transformation of consumption caused by the formation of the information and network economy and the role of the digital transformation of the economy in the context of ICT development and diffusion of innovations, the growth of consumer services in economic activity. A systemic and integrative approach to the study of consumption and the process of its transformation is proposed, taking into account the information paradigm. It is substantiated that a qualitatively new information network economy determines structural shifts in consumption and requires a qualitatively new structure of production and services that is adequate to the needs of innovation and information development. A conceptual multi-level system of consumption relations in the conditions of the information and network economy is proposed, taking into account hierarchical needs (depending on the potential and interdependence of business, society and individual).
The Use of Mathematics Comics to Develop Logical-Mathematical Intelligence for Junior High School Students
Authors: Johar Rahmah , Mailizar Mailizar , Safitri Yulinar , Zubainur Cut Morina , Suhartati Suhartati
Published: April 2023

Logical-mathematical intelligence is highly needed to ease students’ understanding of mathematics concepts. Therefore, it is necessary to delivery an innovative teaching approach to enhance students’ logical-mathematical intelligence. This study aims to investigate the use of mathematics comics to increase the logical-mathematical intelligence of junior high school students in urban and rural schools. This study employed a quantitative approach with a pretest-posttest control group design. The population of this study were seventh-grade students from a junior high school in Banda Aceh (urban areas) and a junior high school in Aceh Besar (rural areas), Indonesia. The samples of this study were two classes (experimental and control) from each school which were selected randomly. To collect data, we used a logical-mathematical intelligence test and analyzed it by using t-test. This study shows that the use of mathematical comics in urban schools can improve mathematical logical intelligence. However, there was no improvement in students' mathematical logical intelligence in rural schools. Therefore, this study showed that using mathematics comics in different school conditions yield different results in logical-mathematical intelligence. The findings suggest that other learning innovations are required to improve students' logical-mathematical intelligence in rural areas.
Dihydrocaffeic acid improves IL-1β-induced inflammation and cartilage degradation via inhibiting NF-κB and MAPK signalling pathways
Authors: Lu Rui , Wang Ying-Guang , Qu Yunkun , Wang Shan-Xi , Peng Cheng , You Hongbo , Zhu Wentao , Chen Anmin
Published: April 2023

Aims

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent joint disorder with inflammatory response and cartilage deterioration as its main features. Dihydrocaffeic acid (DHCA), a bioactive component extracted from natural plant (gynura bicolor), has demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties in various diseases. We aimed to explore the chondroprotective effect of DHCA on OA and its potential mechanism.

Methods

In vitro, interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) was used to establish the mice OA chondrocytes. Cell counting kit-8 evaluated chondrocyte viability. Western blotting analyzed the expression levels of collagen II, aggrecan, SOX9, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), IL-6, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs: MMP1, MMP3, and MMP13), and signalling molecules associated with nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways. Immunofluorescence analysis assessed the expression of aggrecan, collagen II, MMP13, and p-P65. In vivo, a destabilized medial meniscus (DMM) surgery was used to induce mice OA knee joints. After injection of DHCA or a vehicle into the injured joints, histological staining gauged the severity of cartilage damage.

Results

DHCA prevented iNOS and IL-6 from being upregulated by IL-1β. Moreover, the IL-1β-induced upregulation of MMPs could be inhibited by DHCA. Additionally, the administration of DHCA counteracted IL-1β-induced downregulation of aggrecan, collagen II, and SOX9. DHCA protected articular cartilage by blocking the NF-κB and MAPK pathways. Furthermore, DHCA mitigated the destruction of articular cartilage in vivo.

Conclusion

We present evidence that DHCA alleviates inflammation and cartilage degradation in OA chondrocytes via suppressing the NF-κB and MAPK pathways, indicating that DHCA may be a potential agent for OA treatment.

Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2023;12(4):259–273.
Supplemental information for "Can Woodchip Bioreactors Be Used at a Catchment Scale? Nitrate Performance and Sediment Considerations"
Authors: Feyereisen Gary , Ghane Ehsan , Schumacher Todd , Dalzell Brent , Williams Mark
Published: April 2023

  

This file contains supplementary information referenced in the Journal of the ASABE peer-reviewed article “Can woodchip bioreactors be used at a catchment scale? Nitrate performance and sediment considerations.” The information is of three general types: Written method, tables, and figures. The first page consists of text and equations describing the methods used to determine V-notch weir discharge in the article. Pages 2 through 13 contain ten tables of detailed data documenting duration of flow events, discharge, hydraulic residence time, nitrate-N removal rate, water temperature, nutrient loads, and woodchip ash and sediment contents. Pages 14 through 21 contain seven figures; four figures contain photographs from the experimental site, two are data graphs, and one is a diagram showing the location of woodchip sampling.
Semiconducting and scintillating glasses for x-ray detection
Authors:   Coe College, Smith B. , Mucciaccio J. , Caplice T. , Wadle L. , McClanahan L. ,   Clemson University, Jacobsohn L. G. , Akgun U.
Published: April 2023

X-ray detectors are commonly used for medical, crystallography and space physics applications. Most of the current x-ray detectors use cadmium zinc telluride (CZT) as the active medium. This report investigates high density semiconducting and scintillating glasses as potential alternatives to CZT. For the semiconducting glasses, samples composed of xCuO–((1−x)/2)PbO–((1−x)/2)V2O5 and xFeO–((1−x)/2)PbO–((1−x)/2)V2O5, for the scintillating glasses, samples composed of xGd2O3+yWO3+(1−x−y)2H3BO3, doped with 1–6% Eu3+ or Tb3+, were investigated in this study. The glass-making conditions, density, Raman spectroscopy analysis, photoluminescence excitation and emission spectra, as well as conductivity measurements performed on various samples, are reported. The interaction of x-rays with all the glass samples was simulated using GATE software, and their mass attenuation coefficients were calculated and compared with CZT.
Intramedullary Nail Versus Dynamic Hip Screw; Intramedullary Nail (Advantages And Disadvantages)
Authors: Singh Ajay Pal , Kochar Vivek
Published: April 2023

since 1950s surgical treatment of extracapsular hip fractures is done using a variety of different implants. Unstable fractures are fractures with lateral wall or posteromedial comminution,fractures with reverse obliquity patterns and fractures extending into the femoral neck or subtrochanteric regions. These types are not well controlled by the sliding compression hip screw and side plate and are associated with a high rate of fixation failure when treated with dynamic hip screw. Theoretical biomechanical advantages of intramedullary nails over screw and plate fixation are attributed to a reduced distance between the hip joint and the implant. Success of Proximal femoral nail for the treatment of such fractures is based on biomechanical principles,cadaver studies and clinical series. Although it is seems that nail fixation is superior to sliding compression hip screw and side plate fixation for the treatment of unstable fractures, this point is not well proven till date. Orthopedic literature does not support the superiority of intramedullary nail fixation over sliding hip screw fixation for the treatment of intertrochanteric femoral fractures and intramedullary nail fixation is associated with a higher complication rate. Till date the debate over superiority of extramedullary fixation versus intramedullary implants continues especially in unstable intertrochanteric fractures. This article highlights the advantages and disadvantages of proximal femoral nail in intertrochanteric fractures with review of literature. Keywords: Intertrochanteric fractures, intramedullary nail, dynamic hip screw
Understanding the impact of climate change and resilience among highlanders in northern parts of Bhutan: A case study in Gasa district
Authors: Dorji Tshering , Yangzom Deki , Norbu Nima , Rinchen Sangay , Dorjee Jambay , Tenzin Tenzin
Published: April 2023

Mountainous regions are affected the most by climate change across the world. The livelihood of highlanders primarily depends on livestock farming and natural resources. In Bhutan, yak farming and sale of Cordyceps sinensis (caterpillar fungus)remain the main source of income for most highlanders. We conducted a study to understand the impact of climate change on the community livelihoods in Bhutan. A cross-sectional survey was conducted and interviewed 132 household heads, two focus group discussions of 20 respondents (10 in each group), and key informant interviews (n = 5) in two highland communities (i.e., Laya and Lunana) of Gasa district in northern Bhutan between August 2019 and February 2020. The study revealed that the caterpillar fungus (78.8%) is the major source of income for highland communities which overtook the yak farming practices since its legalization in 2004. More than 80% of households have abandoned yak farming due to its poor economic return because of the decreased utility of yak for meat purposes and other socio-cultural related practices. The majority of the respondents (91%) expressed concern that climate change is posing a threat to the growth and subsequent harvest of caterpillar fungus. The highland people reported emergence of insects/vectors in their community and mosquitoes were the most frequently reported (85%) insect. A small proportion of respondents (1.5%) were concerned about the grazing habitat of the yaks due to the change in the botanical composition of the rangeland. Given that there is a decrease in caterpillar fungus, which is the main source of income for highland communities, this study calls for a climate-resilient community-based economic opportunity for the sustainable livelihood of highland communities. Furthermore, we recommend a detailed study of the negative impacts due to climate change on freshwater resources, the distribution of vectors and vector-borne diseases, and rangeland ecology in the highland.
Going beyond market-based mechanisms to finance nature-based solutions and foster sustainable futures
Authors: Chausson Alexandre , Welden E. A. , Melanidis Marina S. , Gray Erin , Hirons Mark , Seddon Nathalie
Published: April 2023

Failure to address the climate and biodiversity crises is undermining human well-being and increasing global inequality. Given their potential for addressing these societal challenges, there is growing attention on scaling-up nature-based solutions (NbS). However, there are concerns that in its use, the NbS concept is dissociated with the social and economic drivers of these societal challenges, including the pervasive focus on market-based mechanisms and the economic growth imperative, promoting the risk of greenwashing. In this perspective, we draw on recent research on the effectiveness, governance, and practice of NbS to highlight key limitations and pitfalls of a narrow focus on natural capital markets to finance their scaling up. We discuss the need for a simultaneous push for complementary funding mechanisms and examine how financial instruments and market-based mechanisms, while important to bridge the biodiversity funding gap and reduce reliance on public funding, are not a panacea for scaling NbS. Moreover, market-based mechanisms present significant governance challenges, and risk further entrenching power asymmetries. We propose four key recommendations to ensure finance mechanisms for biodiversity and NbS foster more just, equitable, and environmentally sustainable pathways in support of the CBD’s (Convention on Biological Diversity) 2050 vision of “living in harmony with nature”. We stress that NbS must not be used to distract attention away from reducing emissions associated with fossil fuel use or to promote an agenda for perpetual economic growth and call on government policy makers to decenter GDP growth as a core economic and political target, refocusing instead on human and ecological well-being.
The defense island repertoire of the Escherichia coli pan-genome
Authors: Hochhauser Dina , Millman Adi , Sorek Rotem
Published: April 2023

It has become clear in recent years that anti-phage defense systems cluster non-randomly within bacterial genomes in so-called “defense islands”. Despite serving as a valuable tool for the discovery of novel defense systems, the nature and distribution of defense islands themselves remain poorly understood. In this study, we comprehensively mapped the defense system repertoire of >1,300 strains ofEscherichia coli, the most widely studied organism for phage-bacteria interactions. We found that defense systems are usually carried on mobile genetic elements including prophages, integrative conjugative elements and transposons, which preferentially integrate at several dozens of dedicated hotspots in theE.coligenome. Each mobile genetic element type has a preferred integration position but can carry a diverse variety of defensive cargo. On average, anE.coligenome has 4.7 hotspots occupied by defense system-containing mobile elements, with some strains possessing up to eight defensively occupied hotspots. Defense systems frequently co-localize with other systems on the same mobile genetic element, in agreement with the observed defense island phenomenon. Our data show that the overwhelming majority of theE.colipan-immune system is carried on mobile genetic elements, explaining why the immune repertoire varies substantially between different strains of the same species.
Mobile phone use for pregnancy-related healthcare utilization and its association with optimum antenatal care and hospital delivery in Bangladesh
Authors: Kibria Gulam Muhammed Al , Hashan Mohammad Rashidul , Hanif Abu Abdullah Mohammod , Maniar Vidhi , Shawon Md Shajedur Rahman
Published: April 2023

Pregnancy-related healthcare utilization is inadequate in Bangladesh, where more than half of pregnant women do not receive optimum number of antenatal care (ANC) visits or do not deliver child in hospitals. Mobile phone use could improve such healthcare utilization; however, limited evidence exists in Bangladesh. We investigated the pattern, trends, and factors associated with mobile phone use for pregnancy-related healthcare and how this can impact at least 4 ANC visits and hospital delivery in the country. We analyzed cross-sectional data from Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey (BDHS) 2014 (n = 4,465) and 2017–18 (n = 4,903). Only 28.5% and 26.6% women reported using mobile phones for pregnancy-related causes in 2014 and 2017–18, respectively. Majority of the time, women used mobile phones to seek information or to contact service providers. In both survey periods, women with a higher education level, more educated husbands, a higher household wealth index, and residence in certain administrative divisions had greater likelihoods of using mobile phones for pregnancy-related causes. In BDHS 2014, proportions of at least 4 ANC and hospital delivery were, respectively, 43.3% and 57.0% among users, and 26.4% and 31.2% among non-users. In adjusted analysis, the odds of utilizing at least 4 ANC were 1.6 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.4–1.9) in BDHS 2014 and 1.4 (95% CI: 1.3–1.7) in BDHS 2017–18 among users. Similarly, in BDHS 2017–18, proportions of at least 4 ANC and hospital delivery were, respectively, 59.1% and 63.8% among users, and 42.8% and 45.1% among non-users. The adjusted odds of hospital delivery were also high, 2.0 (95% CI: 1.7–2.4) in BDHS 2014 and 1.5 (95% CI: 1.3–1.8) in BDHS 2017–18. Women with history of using mobile phones for pregnancy-related causes were more likely to utilize at least 4 ANC visits and deliver in health facilities, however, most women were not using mobile phones for that.
Circulation of West Nile virus in mosquitoes approximate to the migratory bird stopover in West Coast Malaysia
Authors: Natasha Jafar Ali , Yasmin Abd Rahaman , Sharma Reuben Sunil Kumar , Nur-Fazila Saulol Hamid , Nur-Mahiza Md Isa , Arshad Siti Suri , Mohammed Hussni Omar , Kumar Kiven , Loong Shih Keng , Ahmad Khusaini Mohd Kharip Shah
Published: April 2023

Being a tropical country with a conducive environment for mosquitoes, mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue, chikungunya, lymphatic filariasis, malaria, and Japanese encephalitis are prevalent in Malaysia. Recent studies reported asymptomatic infection of West Nile virus (WNV) in animals and humans, but none of the studies included mosquitoes, except for one report made half a century ago. Considering the scarcity of information, our study sampled mosquitoes near migratory bird stopover wetland areas of West Coast Malaysia located in the Kuala Gula Bird Sanctuary and Kapar Energy Venture, during the southward migration period in October 2017 and September 2018. Our previous publication reported that migratory birds were positive for WNV antibody and RNA. Using a nested RT-PCR analysis, WNV RNA was detected in 35 (12.8%) out of 285 mosquito pools consisting of 2,635 mosquitoes, most of which wereCulexspp. (species). Sanger sequencing and phylogenetic analysis revealed that the sequences grouped within lineage 2 and shared 90.12%–97.01% similarity with sequences found locally as well as those from Africa, Germany, Romania, Italy, and Israel. Evidence of WNV in the mosquitoes substantiates the need for continued surveillance of WNV in Malaysia.
Spatial analysis of malaria hotspots in Dilla sub-watershed: Western Ethiopia
Authors: Ofgeha Gemechu Y.
Published: April 2023

Background

This study aimed to examine the spatial variations in malaria hotspots along Dilla sub-watershed in western Ethiopia based on environmental factors for the prevalence; and compare the risk level along with districts and their respective kebele. The purpose was to identify the extent of the community’s exposure to the risk of malaria due to their geographical and biophysical situations, and the results contribute to proactive interventions to halt the impacts.

Methods

The descriptive survey design was used in this study. Ethiopia Central Statistical Agency based meteorological data, digital elevation model, and soil and hydrological data were integrated with other primary data such as the observations of the study area for ground truthing. The spatial analysis tools and software were used for watershed delineation, generating malaria risk map for all variables, reclassification of factors, weighted overlay analysis, and generation of risk maps.

Results

The findings of the study reveal that the significant spatial variations in magnitudes of malaria risk have persisted in the watershed due to discrepancy in their geographical and biophysical situations. Accordingly, significant areas in most of the districts in the watershed are characterized by high and moderate in malaria risks. In general, out of the total area of the watershed which accounts 2773 km2, about 54.8% (1522km2) identified as high and moderate malaria risk area. These areas are explicitly identified and mapped along with the districts and kebele in the watershed to make the result suitable for planning proactive interventions and other decision making.

Conclusions

The research output may help the government and humanitarian organizations to prioritize the interventions based on identified spatial situations in severity of malaria risks. The study was aimed only for hotspot analysis which may not provide inclusive account for community’s vulnerability to malaria. Thus, the findings in this study needs to be integrated with the socio-economic and other relevant data for better malaria management in the area. Therefore, future research should comprehend the analysis of vulnerability to the impacts of malaria through integrating the level of exposure to the risk, for instance identified in this study, with factors of sensitivity and adaptation capacity of the local community.
The performance evaluation of management mode of small water resources projects
Authors: Qu Shengteng , Chen Huan , Shen Zhuge , Ma Haoxiang
Published: April 2023

Due to a series of societal factors, management of small rural water resources projects in China experience management problems. Based on the management mode of small water resources projects in three representative regions of Guangdong Province, the improved TOPSIS model is applied to evaluate the performance of management mode of small water resources projects through the combination with entropy weight method. Compared with the traditional TOPSIS model concerning the evaluation object of this paper, the evaluation value formulas of optimal and worst solutions of TOPSIS method are improved. The evaluation index system takes into account the coverage, hierarchy and systematization of indicators, and maintains a management mode with high environmental adaptability, so that the continuous operation of management mode can guaranteed. The results show that the management mode of water user association is most suitable for the development of small water resources projects in Guangdong Province.
A comparative survey of veterinarians, equine owners, and equine keepers regarding the knowledge and implementation of legal requirements in Germany for the use and documentation of veterinary medicines in equines intended for slaughter
Authors: Schneider Shary Tamara , Meemken Diana , Gehlen Heidrun , Merle Roswitha , Langkabel Nina
Published: April 2023

In Europe, equines destined for human consumption (hereafter called slaughter equines) are subject to the same restrictions of usage of veterinary drugs as other food-producing animals, with amendments regulated in the so-called ‘positive list’, Regulation (EC) No. 1950/2006. Due to the complex legal requirements for drug administration in slaughter equines, it might be that specific knowledge regarding the legislation of slaughter equines may be insufficient among veterinarians, equine owners, and equine keepers. To study this assumption, three target group-specific surveys were conducted in 2021. Answers from 153 equine treating veterinarians, 170 equine owners, and 70 equine keepers were included in the analysis. In total 68.4% (91/133) of the participating veterinarians, the regulations of the ‘positive list’, Regulation (EC) No. 1950/2006, were ‘rather complicated’ to ‘complicated’. Among the participating veterinarians, 38.4% (58/151) did not or could not answer correctly how to proceed if a slaughter equine is scheduled to receive phenylbutazone, usage of which is prohibited in all livestock by Regulation (EU) No. 37/2010. Simultaneously, 56.2% (86/153) of the participating veterinarians named phenylbutazone as the, or one of the, most often used non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Altogether, 41.2% (70/170) of participating equine owners and 42.9% (30/70) of equine keepers did not know under which circumstances an equine can legally be slaughtered for human consumption. In total, 34.3% (24/70) of the equine keepers classified their knowledge of national regulations for animal keepers regarding the documentation of drug usage in equines as ‘poor’ to ‘nonexistent’. This lack of knowledge in all three surveyed groups, combined with the complex legal regulations regarding the usage and documentation of drugs in slaughter equines, could result in missing and false documentation, treatment of slaughter equines with prohibited substances and therefore pose a risk factor for drug residues in equine meat.
Identification of GC-rich LAT genes in birds
Authors: Janusova Sarka , Krchlikova Veronika , Hron Tomas , Elleder Daniel , Stepanek Ondrej
Published: April 2023

Linker for activation of T cells (LAT) plays a key role in T-cell antigenic signaling in mammals. Accordingly, LAT orthologues were identified in the majority of vertebrates. However, LAT orthologues were not identified in most birds. In this study, we show that LAT gene is present in genomes of multiple extant birds. It was not properly assembled previously because of its GC-rich content. LAT expression is enriched in lymphoid organs in chicken. The analysis of the coding sequences revealed a strong conservation of key signaling motifs in LAT between chicken and human. Overall, our data indicate that mammalian and avian LAT genes are functional homologues with a common role in T-cell signaling.
Coupling radiative, conductive and convective heat-transfers in a single Monte Carlo algorithm: A general theoretical framework for linear situations
Authors: Tregan Jean Marc , Amestoy Jean Luc , Bati Megane , Bezian Jean-Jacques , Blanco Stéphane , Brunel Laurent , Caliot Cyril , Charon Julien , Cornet Jean-Francois , Coustet Christophe , d’Alençon Louis , Dauchet Jeremi , Dutour Sebastien , Eibner Simon , El Hafi Mouna , Eymet Vincent , Farges Olivier , Forest Vincent , Fournier Richard , Galtier Mathieu , Gattepaille Victor , Gautrais Jacques , He Zili , Hourdin Frédéric , Ibarrart Loris , Joly Jean-Louis , Lapeyre Paule , Lavieille Pascal , Lecureux Marie-Helene , Lluc Jacques , Miscevic Marc , Mourtaday Nada , Nyffenegger-Péré Yaniss , Pelissier Lionel , Penazzi Lea , Piaud Benjamin , Rodrigues-Viguier Clément , Roques Gisele , Roger Maxime , Saez Thomas , Terrée Guillaume , Villefranque Najda , Vourc’h Thomas , Yaacoub Daniel
Published: April 2023

It was recently shown that radiation, conduction and convection can be combined within a single Monte Carlo algorithm and that such an algorithm immediately benefits from state-of-the-art computer-graphics advances when dealing with complex geometries. The theoretical foundations that make this coupling possible are fully exposed for the first time, supporting the intuitive pictures of continuous thermal paths that run through the different physics at work. First, the theoretical frameworks of propagators and Green’s functions are used to demonstrate that a coupled model involving different physical phenomena can be probabilized. Second, they are extended and made operational using the Feynman-Kac theory and stochastic processes. Finally, the theoretical framework is supported by a new proposal for an approximation of coupled Brownian trajectories compatible with the algorithmic design required by ray-tracing acceleration techniques in highly refined geometry.
A comparison of the functional results and costs of functional cast and volar-flexion ulnar deviation cast at 2-year follow-up in 105 patients aged 65 and older with dorsally displaced distal radius fracture: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ax Maarit , Reito Aleksi , Hevonkorpi Teemu P. , Palola Vili , Kukkonen Juha , Luokkala Toni , Laitinen Minna K. , Launonen Antti P. , Mattila Ville M.
Published: April 2023

Background and purpose

Non-operative treatment is the most common treatment option for older patients with distal radius fracture (DRF). Traditionally, wrists have been placed in volar-flexion and ulnar deviation position (VFUDC). In recent years, there has been a trend towards using a functional position cast (FC). However, long-term results for these different casting positions are lacking.

Patients and methods

This randomized, controlled, prospective study evaluates the functional results and costs of the 2 casting positions in patients 65 and older with DRF. Primary end point in this study was Patient-Reported Wrist Evaluation (PRWE) at 24 months, and secondary end points were cost-effectiveness of treatment, health-related quality of life measurement (15D), short version of Disabilities of arm, shoulder and hand score (QuickDASH), and VAS at 24 months. The trial was registered in ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02894983,https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02894983).

Results

We enrolled 105 patients, of which 81 (77%) continued until 24-month follow-up. 8 patients (18%) were operated in the VFUDC group and 4 (11%) in the FC group. Patients in the VFUDC group also received more frequent physical therapy. The difference in PRWE score between the VFUDC and FC groups at 24 months was -4.31. The difference in the cost of treatment per patient was €590. Both findings favored FC.

Interpretation

We found a slight, but consistent difference in the functional results between groups. These results suggest that VFUDC is not superior to FC when treating Colles’ type DRF. Cost analysis revealed overall costs in the VFUDC group are nearly double those in the FC group, mostly due to more physical therapy, additional visits to hospital, and additional examinations. Therefore, we recommend FC in older patients with Colles’ type DRF.
The impact of long-term conditions on the progression of frailty
Authors: Alattas Ali , Nikolova Silviya , Shuweihdi Farag , Best Kate , West Robert
Published: April 2023

Objective

To explore longitudinally the impact of multiple long-term conditions (LTCs) on frailty progression separately for males and females.

Methods

A functional frailty measure (FFM) was used to examine putative determinants of frailty progression among participants aged 65 to 90 in the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA), across nine waves (18 years) of data collection. A multilevel growth model was fitted to measure the FFM progression over 18 years, grouped by LTC categories (zero, one, two and more).

Results

There were 2396 male participants at wave 1, of whom 742 (31.0%) had 1 LTC and 1147 (47.9%) had ≥2 LTCs. There were 2965 females at wave 1 of whom 881 (29.7%) had one LTC and 1584 (53.4%) had ≥2 LTCs. The FFM increased 4% each 10 years for the male participants with no LTCs, while it increased 6% per decade in females. The FFM increased with the number of LTCs, for males and females. The acceleration of FMM increases for males with one long-term health condition or more; however in females the acceleration of FMM increases when they have two LTCs or more.

Conclusion

Frailty progression accelerates in males with one LTCs and females with two LTCs or more. Health providers should be aware of planning a suitable intervention once the elderly have two or more health conditions.
Measuring adequacy of the midwifery workforce using standards of competency and scope of work: Exploring the density and distribution of midwives in three low- and middle-income countries using cross-sectional and geospatial data
Authors: Gausman Jewel , Ramesh Sowmya , Adanu Richard M. , Bandoh Delia A. B. , Blossom Jeff , Chakraborty Suchandrima , Kenu Ernest , Khan Nizamuddin , Langer Ana , Odikro Magdalene A. , Saggurti Niranjan , Jolivet R. Rima
Published: April 2023

Background

A global midwifery shortage hampers the goal of ending preventable maternal/newborn mortality and stillbirths. Whether current measures of midwifery workforce adequacy are valid is unknown. We compare two measures of density and distribution of midwifery professionals to assess their consistency, and explore how incorporating midwifery scope, competency, and the adjusting reference population impacts this critical metric.

Methods and findings

We collected a census of midwives employed in eligible facilities in our study settings, (422 in Ghana; 909 in India), assessed the number practicing within the scope of work for midwifery professionals defined in the International Labor Organization International Standard Classification of Occupations, and whether they reported possessing the ICM essential competencies for basic midwifery practice. We altered the numerator, iteratively narrowing it from a simple count to include data on scope of practice and competency and reported changes in value. We altered the denominator by calculating the number of midwives per 10,000 total population, women of reproductive age, pregnancies, and births and explored variation in the indicator. Across four districts in Ghana, density of midwives decreased from 8.59/10,000 total population when counting midwives from facility staffing rosters to 1.30/10,000 total population when including only fully competent midwives by the ICM standard. In India, no midwives met the standard, thus the midwifery density of 1.37/10,000 total population from staffing rosters reduced to 0.00 considering competency. Changing the denominator to births vastly altered subnational measures, ranging from ~1700% change in Tolon to ~8700% in Thiruvallur.

Conclusion

Our study shows that varying underlying parameters significantly affects the value of the estimate. Factoring in competency greatly impacts the effective coverage of midwifery professionals. Disproportionate differences were noted when need was estimated based on total population versus births. Future research should compare various estimates of midwifery density to health system process and outcome measures.