bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bloch-surface-wave resonance in a cavity resonator for focusing retroreflection
Authors: Ozawa Keisuke , Inoue Junichi , Kintaka Kenji , Ura Shogo
Published: July 2024

A wavelength-selective retroreflector for a diverging wave will be an attractive external mirror for compact wavelength-stabilized semiconductor lasers and consists of a focusing grating coupler and a cavity resonator. In this Letter, the retroreflector utilizing a Bloch surface wave (BSW) resonance was theoretically investigated for improving the retro-reflectance in comparison to a previously reported structure utilizing guided-mode resonance (GMR). A retroreflector with an aperture size of 31 µm and focal length of 67 µm was designed for an operation wavelength of 1550 nm. The maximum retro-reflectance is predicted by numerical simulation to be higher by 11% than that of the GMR-based retroreflector.
Continuous-wave driving elucidates the desynchronization dynamics of ultrashort dissipative Raman solitons generated in dispersive Kerr resonators
Authors: Li Zongda , Xu Yiqing , Coen Stéphane , Murdoch Stuart G. , Erkintalo Miro
Published: July 2024

Phase-coherent pulsed driving of passive optical fiber resonators enables the generation of ultrashort dissipative Raman solitons with durations well below 100 fs. The existence and characteristics of such solitons critically depend on the desynchronization between the pulsed driving source and the resonator round trip time, yet the full mechanism through which these dependencies arise remains unclear. Here, we numerically demonstrate that Raman solitons can exist even under conditions of continuous-wave (CW) driving, and by numerically examining the existence and characteristics of Raman solitons under such conditions, we elucidate the role of desynchronization in pulse-driven systems. In addition to providing new insights into the existence and characteristics of ultrashort Raman solitons, our analysis yields a qualitative explanation for the range of desynchronizations over which the solitons can exist.
SAMD9L acts as an antiviral factor against HIV-1 and primate lentiviruses by restricting viral and cellular translation
Authors: Legrand Alexandre , Dahoui Clara , De La Myre Mory Clément , Noy Kodie , Guiguettaz Laura , Versapuech Margaux , Loyer Clara , Pillon Margaux , Wcislo Mégane , Guéguen Laurent , Berlioz-Torrent Clarisse , Cimarelli Andrea , Mateo Mathieu , Fiorini Francesca , Ricci Emiliano P. , Etienne Lucie
Published: July 2024

Sterile alpha motif domain-containing proteins 9 and 9-like (SAMD9/9L) are associated with life-threatening genetic diseases in humans and are restriction factors of poxviruses. Yet, their cellular function and the extent of their antiviral role are poorly known. Here, we found that interferon-stimulated human SAMD9L restricts HIV-1 in the late phases of replication, at the posttranscriptional and prematuration steps, impacting viral translation and, possibly, endosomal trafficking. Surprisingly, the paralog SAMD9 exerted an opposite effect, enhancing HIV-1. More broadly, we showed that SAMD9L restricts primate lentiviruses, but not a gammaretrovirus (MLV), nor 2 RNA viruses (arenavirus MOPV and rhabdovirus VSV). Using structural modeling and mutagenesis of SAMD9L, we identified a conserved Schlafen-like active site necessary for HIV-1 restriction by human and a rodent SAMD9L. By testing a gain-of-function constitutively active variant from patients with SAMD9L-associated autoinflammatory disease, we determined that SAMD9L pathogenic functions also depend on the Schlafen-like active site. Finally, we found that the constitutively active SAMD9L strongly inhibited HIV, MLV, and, to a lesser extent, MOPV. This suggests that the virus-specific effect of SAMD9L may involve its differential activation/sensing and the virus ability to evade from SAMD9L restriction. Overall, our study identifies SAMD9L as an HIV-1 antiviral factor from the cell autonomous immunity and deciphers host determinants underlying the translational repression. This provides novel links and therapeutic avenues against viral infections and genetic diseases.
Reproductive, maternal, newborn, child and adolescent health services in humanitarian and fragile settings: A mixed methods study of midwives’ and women’s experiences
Authors: Dey T. , Shah M. G. , Baba A. , Mugo N. , Thommesen T. , Vivilaki V. , Boniol M. , Alam N. , Dibley M. , Okoro D. , Tenhoope-bender P. , Triantafyllou T. , Langlois E. V.
Published: July 2024

Insufficient progress has been made to reduce morbidity and mortality for women, children and adolescents particularly in Humanitarian and Fragile settings (HFS). Midwives play a critical and unique role in ensuring communities receive quality and safe essential sexual, reproductive, maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent health services. A lack of knowledge exists on the availability and experiences of midwifery services in HFS. This manuscript provides an overview of the midwifery density in HFS and a synthesis of the experiences of women receiving midwifery care, and barriers and facilitators for midwives providing essential SRMNCAH services in HFS. Guided by an expert committee, a concurrent mixed methods approach was applied, using secondary analysis of primary quantitative and qualitative data sources. Quantitative analysis of the global distribution of midwives compared to fragility was undertaken. Qualitative analysis of experiences of receipt and provision of midwifery care was undertaken across four settings providing humanitarian care. There is a critically low density of midwives in humanitarian and fragile settings. Sub-Saharan Africa accounts for the highest levels of fragility yet lowest density of midwives able to provide SRMNCAH services. Lack of finances both constrains midwives from effectively providing services and prevent communities from utilising services. Sub-optimal working conditions through rising workloads, insufficient and/or inconsistent resources were frequently reported to impede midwives from providing care in HFS. Uniquely for HFS, threats to the safety and security of midwives to conduct their work was widely reported. Key facilitators identified included, complex adaptive health system designs to respond effectively to the rapidly changing HFS environment, realisation of supporting “power, agency and status” as instrumental for midwives to provide quality care and promotion of community-centric approaches may enable continuity of care and uptake of essential SRMNCAH services. Midwives are critical to protect the health and well-being of communities. They require urgent protection and prioritisation in HFS areas where the need is greatest.
An integrated comparative genomics, subtractive proteomics and immunoinformatics framework for the rational design of a Pan-Salmonella multi-epitope vaccine
Authors: Bhattacharjee Arittra , Hosen Md. Rakib , Lamisa Anika Bushra , Ahammad Ishtiaque , Chowdhury Zeshan Mahmud , Jamal Tabassum Binte , Sohag Md. Mehadi Hasan , Hossain Mohammad Uzzal , Das Keshob Chandra , Keya Chaman Ara , Salimullah Md
Published: July 2024

Salmonella infections pose a significant global public health concern due to the substantial expenses associated with monitoring, preventing, and treating the infection. In this study, we explored the core proteome of Salmonella to design a multi-epitope vaccine through Subtractive Proteomics and immunoinformatics approaches. A total of 2395 core proteins were curated from 30 different isolates of Salmonella (strain NZ CP014051 was taken as reference). Utilizing the subtractive proteomics approach on the Salmonella core proteome, Curlin major subunit A (CsgA) was selected as the vaccine candidate. csgA is a conserved gene that is related to biofilm formation. Immunodominant B and T cell epitopes from CsgA were predicted using numerous immunoinformatics tools. T lymphocyte epitopes had adequate population coverage and their corresponding MHC alleles showed significant binding scores after peptide-protein based molecular docking. Afterward, a multi-epitope vaccine was constructed with peptide linkers and Human Beta Defensin-2 (as an adjuvant). The vaccine could be highly antigenic, non-toxic, non-allergic, and have suitable physicochemical properties. Additionally, Molecular Dynamics Simulation and Immune Simulation demonstrated that the vaccine can bind with Toll Like Receptor 4 and elicit a robust immune response. Using in vitro, in vivo, and clinical trials, our findings could yield a Pan-Salmonella vaccine that might provide protection against various Salmonella species.
Expression and secretion of SPARC, FGF-21 and DCN in bovine muscle cells: Effects of age and differentiation
Authors: Shira Katie A. , Thornton Kara J. , Murdoch Brenda M. , Becker Gabrielle M. , Chibisa Gwinyai E. , Murdoch Gordon K.
Published: July 2024

Skeletal muscle growth is an economically important trait in the cattle industry. Secreted muscle-derived proteins, referred to as myokines, have important roles in regulating the growth, metabolism, and health of skeletal muscle in human and biomedical research models. Accumulating evidence supports the importance of myokines in skeletal muscle and whole-body health, though little is known about the potential presence and functional significance of these proteins in cattle. This study evaluates and confirms that secreted proteins acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC), fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF-21), myostatin (MSTN), and decorin (DCN) are expressed and SPARC, FGF-21, and DCN are secreted by primary bovine satellite cells from 3- (BSC3; n = 3) and 11- (BSC11; n = 3) month -old commercial angus steers. Cells were cultured and collected at zero, 12, 24, and 48 hours to characterize temporal expression and secretion from undifferentiated and differentiated cells. The expression of SPARC was higher in the undifferentiated (p = 0.04) and differentiated (p = 0.07) BSC11 than BSC3. The same was observed with protein secretion from undifferentiated (p <0.0001) BSC11 compared to BSC3. Protein secretion of FGF-21 was higher in undifferentiated BSC11 (p < 0.0001) vs. BSC3. DCN expression was higher in differentiated BSC11 (p = 0.006) vs. BSC3. Comparing undifferentiated vs. differentiated BSC, MSTN expression was higher in differentiated BSC3 (p ≤ 0.001) for 0, 12, and 24 hours and in BSC11 (p ≤ 0.03) for 0, 12, 24, and 48 hours. There is also a change over time for SPARC expression (p ≤ 0.03) in undifferentiated and differentiated BSC and protein secretion (p < 0.0001) in undifferentiated BSC, as well as FGF-21 expression (p = 0.007) in differentiated BSC. This study confirms SPARC, FGF-21, and DCN are secreted, and SPARC, FGF-21, MSTN, and DCN are expressed in primary bovine muscle cells with age and temporal differences.
Evaluation of the effectiveness of the use of exosomes in the regulation of the mitochondrial membrane potential of frozen/thawed spermatozoa
Authors: Kowalczyk Alicja , Kordan Władysław
Published: July 2024

Numerous studies confirm the involvement of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in the regulation of physiological processes of mammalian sperm cells. It has been proven that they take part in the processes of capacitation, acrosonmal reaction, and anti-oxidation. Despite growing interest in the biomedical potential (including the search for new reproductive biomarkers) of EVs, the role of extracellular seminal vesicles in maintaining semen quality during cryopreservation has not yet been established. Therefore, the objective of this experiment was to evaluate the effectiveness of the use in the regulation of the mitochondrial membrane potential of bovine sperm and to explain the mechanisms of EV action during cell cryopreservation. Exosomes were isolated from bull semen plasma, measured, and used for extender supplementation. Semen samples were collected from Simmental bulls, diluted, and pre-evaluated. Then they were divided into equal fractions that did not contain EVs or were supplemented with 0.75; 1.5 and 2.25 mg/ml of EVs. The test samples were frozen/thawed and the mitochondrial membrane potential, DNA integrity, and viability were evaluated. EVs have been established to have a positive effect on cryopreserved sperm structures. The most favourable level of EVs was 1.5 mg / ml, which can be successfully to improve cell cryostability during freezing/thawing. In this study, exosomes isolated from the sperm plasma and supplemented with a concentrated dose in the extender for sperm freezing were shown to significantly improve cryostability of cells by supporting the potentials of the mitochondrial membrane and protecting the cytoplasmic membrane of spermatozoa.
Multiliteracies meet new methods: The case for digital writing in English education case study in G-7 countries
Authors: Hu Xiaoying
Published: July 2024

Recently, globe has tried to transform populace activities to digital platform, wherefrom all stakeholders can attain their basic information. However, education sector cannot be excluded from this debate. Since, the pandemic mostly most economies have utilized digital transformation in different aspects of life, but digital education becomes more prominent. Therefore, this empirical research focuses on digital writing specifically to English education in G-7 economies between the time frame spanning from January 2000 to April 2022. This study considers urbanization, income, renewable energy, information & communication technology, renewable energy, English education, and pandemic as the key environmental determinants. To address the challenges posed by panel data, this study utilized an advanced set of estimators such as AMG stands for Augmented Mean Group. The estimate of urbanization and income per capita is positively significant, confirming that urbanization and economic development cannot protect the green economy by minimizing environmental pollution. Likewise, the estimated coefficient of English Education and internet use is negative and significant, implying that English Education and ICT can protect the green economy by reducing emissions. Conversely, renewable energy consumption (REC) is an element that can increase economic activity and therefore decline the environmental damages to secure a green economy. Likewise, the growth in cases of Covid-19 also reduces the usage of resources like land, water, and forests and subsequently decreases carbon emissions, promoting the green economy. The results also indicate that interaction term of English Education and ICT have adverse impact on Carbon emission (CO2). The outcomes suggest that internet usage (ICT) in English Education (EE) can deal efficiently with environmental issues for the green economy; therefore, EE and ICT should be part of green policies across the international level.
Hit me with your best puff: Personality predicts preference for cigar vs. cigarette smoking
Authors: Gruda Dritjon , McCleskey Jim A.
Published: July 2024

In this study, we examine the association between Big Five personality traits and cigar or cigarette smoking in a sample of 9,918 older adults across 11 European countries derived from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE) dataset. We find significant associations between several traits and smoking groups. Smoking was associated with lower scores on Conscientiousness and Agreeableness and higher Extraversion scores. In addition, cigar smokers exhibit lower Neuroticism and higher Openness compared to both cigarette smokers and non-smokers. These findings suggest that both personality traits are antecedents of smoking behavior, offering implications for targeted public health interventions and social policies aimed at combating the global tobacco epidemic.
Healthcare experiences of pregnant and postnatal women and healthcare professionals when facing child protection in the perinatal period: A systematic review and Critical Interpretative Synthesis
Authors: Backer Kaat De , Rayment-Jones Hannah , Lever Taylor Billie , Bicknell-Morel Tamsin , Montgomery Elsa , Sandall Jane , Easter Abigail
Published: July 2024

Background

The perinatal period is known as time of transition and anticipation. For women with social risk factors, child protection services may become involved during the perinatal period and this might complicate their interactions with healthcare providers.

Aim

To systematically review and synthesise the existing qualitative evidence of healthcare experiences of women and healthcare professionals during the perinatal period while facing child protection involvement.

Methods

A systematic search of databases (Web of Science, MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsychINFO, CINAHL, ASSIA, MIDIRS, Social Policy and Practice and Global Health) was carried out in January 2023, and updated in February 2024. Quality of studies was assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme. A Critical Interpretative Synthesis was used alongside the PRISMA reporting guideline.

Results

A total of 41 studies were included in this qualitative evidence synthesis. We identified three types of healthcare interactions: Relational care, Surveillance and Avoidance. Healthcare interactions can fluctuate between these types, and elements of different types can coexist simultaneously, indicating the complexity and reciprocal nature of healthcare interactions during the perinatal period when child protection processes are at play.

Conclusions

Our findings provide a novel interpretation of the reciprocal interactions in healthcare encounters when child protection agencies are involved. Trust and transparency are key to facilitate relational care. Secure and appropriate information-sharing between agencies and professionals is required to strengthen healthcare systems. Healthcare professionals should have access to relevant training and supervision in order to confidently yet sensitively safeguard women and babies, while upholding principles of trauma-informed care. In addition, systemic racism in child protection processes exacerbate healthcare inequalities and has to be urgently addressed. Providing a clear framework of mutual expectations between families and healthcare professionals can increase engagement, trust and accountability and advance equity.
Maternal excessive weight gain as a potential risk factor for prolonged labor in Japanese pregnant women: The Japan Environment and Children’s Study
Authors: Shinohara Satoshi , Horiuchi Sayaka , Kojima Reiji , Shinohara Ryoji , Otawa Sanae , Kushima Megumi , Miyake Kunio , Yui Hideki , Ooka Tadao , Akiyama Yuka , Yokomichi Hiroshi , Yamagata Zentaro ,   the Japan Environment and Children’s Study Group
Published: July 2024

Aim

This study aimed to determine whether excessive maternal weight gain during pregnancy was associated with a higher risk of prolonged labor.

Methods

We analyzed the data regarding maternal weight gain during pregnancy for the participants of Japan Environment and Children’s Study (JECS), which is an ongoing nationwide prospective birth cohort study in Japan. After excluding participants with multiple pregnancies, with deliveries before 37 or beyond 42 weeks of gestation, or who had undergone cesarean section, 71,154 (nulliparous, n = 28,442) Japanese women were included. Prolonged labor was defined by a cutoff ranking at the 95th percentile and consequently defined as labor duration exceeding 12.7 h in multiparous women and exceeding 23.2 h in nulliparous women. These classifications were made according to labor curves established by the Japanese Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology Perinatal Committee developed in June 2021. Considering that no studies have conducted an investigation based on this new guideline, we analyzed the association between excessive maternal weight gain during pregnancy and prolonged labor by parity.

Results

The overall incidence of prolonged labor was 10.2% (2,907/28,442) in nulliparous women and 6.1% (2,597/42,712) in multiparous women. Multivariable analysis indicated that excessive maternal weight gain was significantly associated with prolonged labor in nulliparous (adjusted odds ratio, 1.21; 95% confidence interval, 1.10–1.32) and multiparous women (adjusted odds ratio, 1.15; 95% confidence interval, 1.05–1.27). Kaplan–Meier survival analysis showed that as labor progressed, the percentage of women who had not yet delivered was higher among those with excessive maternal weight gain than among those with normal maternal weight gain in both the nulliparous (median labor duration 12.9 h vs 12.2 h, p<0.001) and multiparous (median labor duration 6.2 h vs 5.8 h, p<0.001) groups.

Conclusion

Excessive maternal weight gain was significantly associated with prolonged labor in Japanese women.
Targeted psychological and psychosocial interventions for auditory hallucinations in persons with psychotic disorders: Protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Fässler Laura , Bighelli Irene , Leucht Stefan , Sabé Michel , Bajbouj Malek , Knaevelsrud Christine , Böge Kerem
Published: July 2024

Background

In recent years, a growing body of evidence has demonstrated the efficacy of non-pharmacological interventions for schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSD) including positive symptoms such as auditory hallucinations (AH). However, clinical trials predominantly examine general treatment effects for positive symptoms. Therefore, previous research is lacking in comprehensive and clear evidence about psychological and psychosocial approaches that are primarily tailored to treat AH. To overcome this knowledge gap in the current literature, we will conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the efficacy of clearly targeted psychological and psychosocial interventions for AH in persons with SSD.

Methods and analysis

This study protocol has been developed according to the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis Protocols. We will include all randomized controlled trials analyzing the efficacy of targeted psychological and psychosocial interventions especially aimed at treating AH in SSD. We will include studies on adult patients with SSD experiencing AH. The primary outcome will be the change on a published rating scale measuring AH. Secondary outcomes will be delusions, overall symptoms, negative symptoms, depression, social functioning, quality of life, and acceptability (drop-out). We will search relevant databases and the reference lists of included literature. The study selection process will be conducted by two independent reviewers. We will conduct a random-effect meta-analysis to consider heterogeneity across studies. Analyses will be carried out by software packages in R. The risk of bias in each study will be evaluated using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. Assessment of heterogeneity and sensitivity analysis will be conducted.

Discussion

The proposed study will augment the existing evidence by providing an overview of effective treatment approaches and their overall efficacy at treating AH in SSD. These findings will complement existing evidence that may impact future treatment implementations in clinical practice by addressing effective strategies to treat AH and therefore improve outcomes for the addressed population.

Ethics and dissemination

No ethical issues are foreseen. We will publish the results from this study in peer-reviewed journals and at relevant scientific conferences.

Trial registration

PROSPERO registration number: CRD42023475704.
Is yearly interferon gamma release assay latent tuberculosis infection screening warranted among patients with rheumatological diseases on disease-modifying drugs in non-endemic settings?
Authors: Palacios Carlo Foppiano , Chowdhary Vaidehi , Hao Ritche , Danve Abhijeet , Malinis Maricar
Published: July 2024

Objective

Patients living with rheumatologic diseases on disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARD) are at an increased risk of developing tuberculosis (TB). Current guidelines recommend screening for latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) before initiating DMARD. However, data is lacking on the value of yearly screening for LTBI.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was conducted on adult patients (≥ 18 years) with rheumatologic disease on DMARD followed longitudinally in the outpatient rheumatology clinics between 2017–2021. Collected data included patient demographics, rheumatologic diagnosis, medications, TB-related risk factors, interferon gamma release assay (IGRA) results, LTBI diagnosis and treatment. Descriptive statistics were performed.

Results

Among 339 patients, 81 (23.9%) were male, 259 (76.4%) were white, and 93 (27.5%) were Latinx. Inflammatory arthritis (84.1%) was the most common rheumatic diagnosis. Common DMARD were JAK inhibitors (19.2%), TNF-alpha inhibitors (18.9%), and IL-17 A inhibitors (18.0%). Only 2 patients at baseline had positive IGRA, and both had a history of treated LTBI. Positive IGRA tests were recorded in 1 (0.7%), 3 (1.8%), 3 (1.3%), and 3 (1.1%) in the years 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021, respectively. Four patients converted from negative to positive during serial yearly IGRA testing. After reviewing the IGRA test and TB risk factors, only one patient was considered newly diagnosed with LTBI, requiring 4 months of rifampin.

Conclusion

In a non-endemic area, serial IGRA testing of low-risk patients on DMARD yielded very low rate of newly diagnosed LTBI. A targeted LTBI screening based on TB-related risk factors should be performed prior to IGRA testing rather than universal yearly screening in a non-endemic setting.
Correlations between distal sensorimotor polyneuropathy and cardiovascular complications in diabetic patients in the North-Eastern region of Hungary
Authors: Pető Attila , Tóth László Imre , Hernyák Marcell , Lőrincz Hajnalka , Molnár Ágnes , Nagy Attila Csaba , Lukács Miklós , Kempler Péter , Paragh György , Harangi Mariann , Ferenc Sztanek
Published: July 2024

Distal sensorimotor polyneuropathy (DSPN) is the earliest detectable and the most frequent microvascular complication in diabetes mellitus. Several studies have previously demonstrated correlations between cardiovascular risk factors in diabetic patients and independent risk factors for diabetic neuropathy. Our objective was to retrospectively analyze data from diabetic patients in the North-East region of Hungary who underwent neuropathy screening at the Diabetic Neuropathy Center, University of Debrecen, between 2017 and 2021. We aimed to investigate the correlations between cardiovascular risk factors and microvascular complications among patients with DSPN. The median age of the patients was 67 years, 59,6% were female, and 91,1% had type 2 diabetes. The prevalence of DSPN among the study subjects was 71.7%. A significantly longer duration of diabetes (p<0.01) was noted in patients with DSPN. Those with DSPN demonstrated a significantly higher HbA1c level (p<0.001) and a greater frequency of insulin use (p = 0.001). We observed a significantly elevated albumin/creatinine ratio (p<0.001) and a significantly lower eGFR (p<0.001) in patients with DSPN. Diabetic retinopathy exhibited a significantly higher prevalence in patients with DSPN (p<0.001). A higher prevalence of myocardial infarction (p<0.05), ischemic heart disease (p<0.001), peripheral arterial disease (p<0.05) and a history of atherosclerosis (p<0.05) was observed in patients with DSPN. In a multivariate logistic regression analysis, the following factors were independently associated with the presence of DSPN: higher HbA1c (OR:2.58, 95% CI:1.89–3.52, p<0.001), age (OR:1.03, 95% CI:1.01–1.05, p = 0.006), albumin/creatinine ratio above 3 mg/mmol (OR:1.23, 95% CI:1.06–1.45, p = 0.008), retinopathy (OR:6.06, 95% CI:1.33–27.53, p = 0.02), and composite cardiovascular endpoint (OR:1.95, 95% CI:1.19–3.19, p = 0.008). Our study revealed that age, elevated HbA1c levels, significant albuminuria, retinopathy, and cardiovascular complications may increase the risk of DSPN. Further investigation of these associations is necessary to understand the impact of patient characteristics during the treatment of diabetic neuropathy.
Ethanol extract from Astilbe chinensis inflorescence suppresses inflammation in macrophages and growth of oral pathogenic bacteria
Authors: Han Jong Min , Yun Ina , Yang Kyung Mi , Kim Hye-Sung , Kim Young-Youn , Jeong Wonsik , Hong Seong Su , Hwang Inseong
Published: July 2024

Chronic oral inflammation and biofilm-mediated infections drive diseases such as dental caries and periodontitis. This study investigated the anti-inflammatory and antibacterial potential of an ethanol extract fromAstilbe chinensisinflorescence (GA-13-6) as a prominent candidate for natural complex substances (NCS) with therapeutic potential. In LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages, GA-13-6 significantly suppressed proinflammatory mediators, including interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor (TNF), and nitric oxide (NO), surpassing purified astilbin, a known bioactive compound found inA.chinensis. Furthermore, GA-13-6 downregulated the expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), indicating an inhibitory effect on the inflammatory cascade. Remarkably, GA-13-6 exhibited selective antibacterial activity againstStreptococcus mutans,Streptococcus sanguinis, andPorphyromonas gingivalis, key players in dental caries and periodontitis, respectively. These findings suggest that complex GA-13-6 holds the potential for the treatment or prevention of periodontal and dental diseases, as well as various other inflammation-related conditions, while averting the induction of antibiotic resistance.
Audio or video? Modality effects on perception, emotions and attitude towards politicians in press conferences
Authors: Rodero Emma
Published: July 2024

Speeches to the nation offer presidents the potential to influence people. In the COVID-19 pandemic, the leaders’ discourses on the nation have been followed by many citizens in different modalities. However, are there differences if the audience watches or listens to the politician in a press conference? This research examines how the modality of presentation (audio or video) influences the perception of attractiveness, persuasiveness, credibility, emotional response, attitude and voting intention. A sample of 360 participants evaluated these variables after watching two videos and listening to two audio segments of the former president of the United States (Trump), the ex-prime minister of the United Kingdom (Johnson) and the president of the Government of Spain (Sanchez) in press conferences about coronavirus. The results showed that modality is an important variable in the participants’ perceptions, emotions and attitudes. Audio was the format in which politicians were perceived as more attractive, persuasive, credible, energetic and dominant. The attitude towards them and the voting intention were also higher in response to the audio version. However, some emotions, such as neutrality, anger and sadness, were better perceived in the video presentations.
Turkish Radio and TV Broadcasting Corporation’s new streaming application and the continuity of music policy as an educational institution
Authors: Binark Mutlu , Demir Erman M. , Sezgin Serra , Özsu Gökçe
Published: July 2024

While numerous studies focus on streaming platforms as new business models or as novel elements in the supply chain, there is a notable gap in research addressing how streaming is operationalized within the context of state cultural policies. This study aims to fill this gap by conducting a preliminary examination of Turkish Radio and Television Broadcasting Corporation’s (TRT’s) digital transformation through its music streaming platform, TRT Listen. This research contributes to the international literature by highlighting various potential approaches to the digitalization of public radio broadcasting. This study, which examines the purpose and realization of TRT Listen, first provides a historical overview of TRT’s radio broadcasting and thus reveals the continuity in TRT’s cultural policy, which is shaped as a mission to educate the public and inculcate a national cultural identity, from radio broadcasting to the platform app. Two different research methods were used in this study: walk-through technique for the app and in-depth interviews with TRT’s staff and music industry representatives. The basic argument suggests that TRT Listen represents a continuation of historical music policies and nation state cultural agenda inherited from TRT’s radio era. However, at the operational level, this strategic continuity seems to disappear in the audience engagement techniques of digital platforms. The three main discussion sections of this article – TRT Listen’s strategic orientation, content curation and copyright management – reveal the platform’s mission to educate the public culturally in Turkey.
Launch of ‘hospital radio’ in Japan: Strengthening patient–staff bonding
Authors: Ogawa Akiko
Published: July 2024

Hospital radio is a form of audio broadcasting for in-patients produced by volunteer staff. This study examines hospital radio’s functioning and community benefits. It first provides the history of hospital radio in the United Kingdom, which has been overlooked in literature, and describes the introduction of the audio programme launched at Fujita Medical University Hospital in 2019, Japan’s first hospital radio initiative, which was based on the United Kingdom’s hospital radio. Drawing from interview data of volunteer staff who conducted the hospital radio, it describes the motivation to volunteer and the bond it created among the staff, who began to view their roles from fresh perspectives. Further, from the patients’ request messages, the study clarifies hospital radio’s significance in their lives during their hospital stay. Overall, this study reveals communication among hospital staff members, patients and professional, as well as professionals’ improved ability to self-reflect.
Elementos configuradores del derecho penal ambiental
Authors: González Quinzán Yago
Published: July 2024

En el presente trabajo se analizan las razones que ampliamente se arguyen para la protección penal del medio ambiente y, tras ello, la evolución del «delito ecológico» tipificado en el artículo 325 del Código Penal. La intervención del ius puniendi estatal en este ámbito se posibilita mismamente en la Constitución española, pero también se enmarca en la tendencia comunitaria que defiende la respuesta penal como recurso esencial para hacer frente a la degradación ambiental, sobre todo ante la ineficacia de la normativa administrativa. No obstante, esta decisión político-criminal no se halla exenta de críticas que, esencialmente, se relacionan con las dificultades propias de articular un sistema de protección del bien jurídico «medio ambiente» mediante el Derecho administrativo y el Derecho penal. Tras el estudio de las principales cuestiones polémicas que se plantean entre ambas ramas del ordenamiento jurídico, se aborda la evolución del delito ecológico que, tras la reforma de 2015, introduce algunas novedades que ponen en tela de juicio los principios penales más básicos.
O Espaço Delas: trajetórias femininas no horizonte das práticas tridimensionais no Brasil
Authors: Cerchiaro Marina Mazze , Ferraz Tatiana Sampaio
Published: July 2024

Na segunda metade do século XX, muitas artistas mulheres passam a se dedicar à produção tridimensional e ganham destaque no meio cultural, sendo inclusive reconhecidas pela crítica, pelas instituições e pelos historiadores da arte. A partir dos anos 1960 a noção de escultura começa a ser esgarçada; o que era concebido como um objeto autônomo vai se abrindo ao entorno imediato, se hibridizando com outras linguagens e dialogando com outros campos do conhecimento; as pesquisas plásticas da forma e da matéria "esculpida" ou "modelada" dão lugar a experimentações poéticas na direção da problemática do corpo e do espaço, adicionam outras matérias e inventam novos procedimentos técnicos. Embora as mulheres tenham contribuído significativamente nesse processo de esgarçamento do fazer escultórico, as questões de gênero são pouco debatidas nessa modalidade artística, quando comparado à pintura. Buscando contribuir para esse debate, os artigos, entrevistas e ensaios visuais reunidos neste dossiê tratam da atuação de artistas mulheres e de suas produções tridimensionais, bem como dos modos pelos quais as dinâmicas de gênero incidem no modo de fazer arte no horizonte ampliado da escultura.
Editorial #20. Abordajes metodológicos en extensión universiaria
Authors: Iucci Cecilia
Published: July 2024

Editorial de la revista #20
Reseña de libro/ Poner en común. Sistematización de experiencias de extensión universitaria
Authors: Paris Draghi Peirano Nicole
Published: July 2024

La reseña traza un recorrido por la publicación Poner en Común. Sistematizaciones de experiencias de extensión universitaria. Desde la experiencia de formación universitaria en el profesorado de ciencias naturales y exactas se destaca la propuesta del libro de integrar, reformular y/o producir conocimientos con una perspectiva multidisciplinar, en relación con la propia experiencia de la autora a lo largo de la cursada de la carrera y el paso por talleres y proyectos de extensión.Finalmente se evalúa el aporte del libro y se invita a su lectura para estimular nuevas voces y experiencias con las que continuar reflexionando sobre la extensión y su producción deconocimientos.
Phenolic, Flavonoid Contents, Antioxidant, and Antibacterial Activity of Selected Eucalyptus Species: Review
Authors: Moges Getaneh Worku , Manahelohe Gizachew Mulugeta , Asegie Melese Ababay
Published: July 2024

Many medicinal plants and their essential oils are used to treat or prevent diseases without the risk of mutagenicity, carcinogenicity, or teratogenicity. Eucalyptus essential oils are commonly used as preservatives, flavoring agents, and various consumer goods. Eucalyptus leaves are being widely studied due to their volatile essential oils, including 1,8-cineole, p-cymene, α- and β-pinene, limonene, citronellal, citral, eudesmol, terpinen-4-ol, terpineol, α–phellanderene, and 9β-sitosterol. Among these compounds, 1,8-cineole is the most abundant. Eucalyptus leaves are rich in flavonoids and phenolic compounds and are thus a great source of antioxidants. 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and 2,2’-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) assays were used to measure antioxidant capacity. The antioxidant activity of Eucalyptus essential oil is stronger than that of standard antibiotics such as erythromycin, cefixime, and gentamicin due to the presence of significant terpenoids in addition to phenolic chemicals and flavonoids. A lower IC50 indicates greater antioxidant potential. Phenolic compounds and flavonoids are often associated with beneficial health outcomes, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, anticancer properties, reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases, prevention of age-related neurodegenerative diseases, and prevention of Alzheimer’s disease. Flavonoids also play essential roles in plants, including protecting against reduction, fertility, reproduction, and infection. Due to their anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, and immunomodulatory properties, flavonoids are crucial for pharmacological, medical, and nutraceutical applications.
Analysis of Heavy Metal Cadmium (Cd) and Lead (Pb) in Eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) in Pontianak City by Using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS)
Authors: Nugraha Fajar , Oktaviani Syila Malinda , Luliana Sri
Published: July 2024

In Indonesia, eggplant is a favored vegetable with substantial production. The main objective of this study is to investigate the level of safety of eggplants marketed in traditional wholesale markets in Pontianak City against possible contamination of the heavy metals cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb), which are commonly discovered in water waste, vehicle exhaust, and excessive pesticide and fertilizer use. Alizarin Red S for Cd metal and Dithizon for Pb metal were used in qualitative assays. Cd and Pb levels were measures using an Atomic Absorption Spechtrophotometer (AAS) instrument. The analytical method has been verified for linearity, accuracy, precision, limit of detection, and limit of quantification. The qualitative test results showed that all samples had positive results for Cd and Pb. The quantitative test results revealed that the Cd and Pb metal contents in the FB (Flamboyan) sample were 0.056 mg/kg and 3.5066 mg/kg, consequently, while they were 0.0986 mg/kg and 3.957 mg/kg, consequently, in the PR (Puring) sample. In keeping with BPOM standard No. 5 of 2018, Cd metal levels in FB samples are at a safe threshold, while Cd metal levels in PR samples and Pb metal levels in FB and PR samples exceed the maximum thresholds that have been set.
Sprawozdanie z Międzynarodowej konferencji naukowej „«Niemand darf in Sklaverei oder Leibeigenschaft gehalten werden». Freiheit und Unfreiheit in Mitteleuropa (vom Frühmittelalter bis 1989)” Würzburg, 28–29 września 2023 r.
Authors: Baranowska Marta , Fiktus Paweł
Published: July 2024

Sprawozdanie z Międzynarodowej konferencji naukowej „«Niemand darf  in Sklaverei oder Leibeigenschaft gehalten werden». Freiheit und Unfreiheit in Mitteleuropa (vom Frühmittelalter bis 1989)” [„«Nikt nie może być trzymany w niewoli lub poddaństwie». Wolność i niewola w Europie Środkowej (od wczesnego średniowiecza do 1989  roku)”],  Würzburg, 28–29 września 2023 r.
Poker w świetle ustawy o grach hazardowych i regulacji Unii Europejskiej
Authors: Lewandowicz Maria , Kacprzak Marek
Published: July 2024

The authors of the paper undertook an analysis of the regulations on the organization of a poker game under the Gambling Act. The main subject of the analysis revolves around the question to what extent state authorities should monitor and restrict the activity of poker players. The scope of the statutory restrictions on arranging and participating in poker games depends on the culture of perception of gambling in a given country. Assigning poker to the appropriate regulatory category, either as a gambling activity carrying the highest social risks in terms of public health or safety, or as a game primarily for entertainment, is by no means obvious and depends on determining such factors as the purpose of organizing the poker game and the manner in which it is played, i.e. whether players are playing against a casino or against each other. The regulatory differentiation depending on the variety of poker games is the result of years of efforts by national legislators and the jurisprudence to deﬁne and categorize the game correctly. The article cites the jurisprudence of the Constitutional Court justifying the formal and material prerequisites of the existing restrictions on the gambling services market. The authors also relied on the extensive body of case law of the Court of Justice of the European Union explicating the permissibility of restrictions on freedom of establishment and freedom to provide services in the sphere of gambling. The conclusions drawn from these reﬂections conﬁrm that the current provisions of the Polish Gambling Act are part of a consistent and systematic state policy aimed at ensuring the highest possible level of consumer protection, and the introduced restrictions are proportionate and necessary.
Amylase and lipase levels in the metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes: A longitudinal study in rhesus monkeys
Authors: Chaudhari Uddhav K. , Hansen Barbara C.
Published: July 2024

Latent associations between low serum amylase and reduced plasma insulin levels and increased adiposity have been described previously in a small study of asymptomatic middle‐aged humans. In the present study, we sought to determine the nature of such changes during the longitudinal progression from metabolically normal to overt type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in nonhuman primates (NHPs), a disease that appears to be the same in both pathophysiology and underlying mechanisms as that which most commonly develops in middle‐aged adult humans. Amylase and lipase levels were characterized in 157 unrelated adult rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta); 38% developed T2DM while under study. In all monkeys, multivariable linear regression analysis revealed that amylase could be negatively predicted by % body fat (β −0.29; p = 0.002), age (β −0.27; p = 0.005), and HbA1c (β −0.18; p = 0.037). Amylase levels were positively predicted by lipase levels (β = 0.19; p = −0.024) in all NHPs included in the study. Amylase was significantly lower in NHPs with metabolic syndrome (p < 0.001), prediabetes (PreDM) (p < 0.001), and T2DM (p < 0.001) compared to metabolically normal adult NHPs. Lipase increased in NHPs with PreDM (p = 0.005) and T2DM (p = 0.04) compared to normal NHPs. This is the first longitudinal study of any species, including humans, to show the dynamics of amylase and lipase during the metabolic progression from normal to metabolic syndrome, to PreDM and then to overt T2DM. The extraordinary similarity between humans and monkeys in T2DM, in pancreatic pathophysiology and in metabolic functions give these findings high translational value.
Cardiotrophin‐1 therapy reduces disease severity in a murine model of glomerular disease
Authors: Perretta‐Tejedor Nuria , Price Karen L. , Jafree Daniyal J. , Pomeranz Gideon , Kolatsi‐Joannou Maria , Martínez‐Salgado Carlos , Long David A. , Vasilopoulou Elisavet
Published: July 2024

Cardiotrophin‐1 (CT‐1), a member of the interleukin (IL)‐6 cytokine family, has renoprotective effects in mouse models of acute kidney disease and tubulointerstitial fibrosis, but its role in glomerular disease is unknown. To address this, we used the mouse model of nephrotoxic nephritis to test the hypothesis that CT‐1 also has a protective role in immune‐mediated glomerular disease. Using immunohistochemistry and analysis of single‐cell RNA‐sequencing data of isolated glomeruli, we demonstrate that CT‐1 is expressed in the glomerulus in male mice, predominantly in parietal epithelial cells and is downregulated in mice with nephrotoxic nephritis. Furthermore, analysis of data from patients revealed that human glomerular disease is also associated with reduced glomerular CT‐1 transcript levels. In male mice with nephrotoxic nephritis and established proteinuria, administration of CT‐1 resulted in reduced albuminuria, prevented podocyte loss, and sustained plasma creatinine, compared with mice administered saline. CT‐1 treatment also reduced fibrosis in the kidney cortex, peri‐glomerular macrophage accumulation and the kidney levels of the pro‐inflammatory mediator complement component 5a. In conclusion, CT‐1 intervention therapy delays the progression of glomerular disease in mice by preserving kidney function and inhibiting renal inflammation and fibrosis.
New record of the green macroalga Gayralia brasiliensis (Ulotrichales, Chlorophyta) in Singapore
Authors: Ng Yu Fei , Yeo Regina Shu Wen , Huang Danwei
Published: July 2024

A new family, genus, and species record, Gayralia brasiliensis (Gayraliaceae, Ulotrichales, Chlorophyta) is reported in Singapore using chloroplast elongation factor Tu (tufA) and nuclear internal transcribed spacer (ITS) markers alongside gross and microscopic examination. This species was likely missed by previous surveys due to its limited local distribution, superficial similarity to the much more common Ulva, and its small size. Morphologically, G. brasiliensis in Singapore is more similar to G. oxysperma than to G. brasiliensis in Brazil. This study demonstrates the importance of integrative molecular and morphological analysis for characterising macroalgal diversity.