bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New records of Neotropical otter, Lontra annectens, in Arroyo Romerillos and Santa Catarina River, Acaxochitlán, Hidalgo, México
Authors: Hernández-Silva Dante Alfredo , Pérez-Gracida Luis David , Berges-Cervera Paul Jafet , Morales-González Beatriz , Vázquez-Maldonado Laura Elena , Gallo-Reynoso Juan Pablo
Published: July 2024

Hay pocos registros publicados sobre la nutria neotropical (Lontra annectens) para el estado de Hidalgo.  Este trabajo amplía el conocimiento de su distribución en el estado.  El trabajo de campo consistió en la evaluación de 2 sitios en busca de evidencias de la presencia de la especie: Arroyo Romerillos y Río Santa Catarina.  Para la obtención de los registros se hicieron recorridos a pie, a lo largo de ambos caudales; las evidencias indirectas fueron identificadas siguiendo literatura especializada y corroboradas en campo.  El primer registro en el Arroyo Romerillos fue una hez encontrada sobre una roca.  En el Río Santa Catarina se encontraron 3 registros: el primero la observación de un individuo entrando al agua, el segundo un comedero con restos de acamaya (Procambarus sp.) sobre una roca, el tercero fue una madriguera junto al río con heces de cría.  Este trabajo destaca la importancia de continuar con la prospección de la especie por medio de métodos de muestreo directos e indirectos, para conocer aspectos ecológicos del hábitat de las nutrias, además de conocer el estado de conservación de estos cuerpos de agua en el estado de Hidalgo, con la finalidad de aportar información que permita generar estrategias para la conservación de la especie y su hábitat.
ESTRATÉGIAS DE EDUCAÇÃO AMBIENTAL PARA A GESTÃO PARTICIPATIVA
Authors: Silva Maria do Socorro Ferreira da , Anunciação Vicentina Socorro da
Published: July 2024

Esse ensaio visa contextualizar a importância de estratégias de Educação Ambiental (EA) na gestão ambiental participativa de Unidades de Conservação (UCs) a partir de ações realizadas no âmbito nacional. A pesquisa partiu de uma reflexão teórico-metodológica, com levantamento bibliográfico e documental a partir da análise sistematizada acerca de estratégias de EA no país. Embora sejam realizadas várias estratégias de EA no país, como resultado de um esforço dos gestores e analistas para promover a participação da comunidade na gestão e conservação dos recursos naturais nas UCs, evidenciou-se que há dificuldades para a continuidade efetiva e para sistematização e divulgação das ações desenvolvidas. As estratégias são importantes, porém, é preciso avançar na EA crítica com viés para a gestão participativa, pois percebe-se que parte das atividades ainda está arraigada a uma concepção conservadora de EA que prima pela mudança de comportamento individual. No tocante a sistematização e divulgação é importante incluir os atores sociais envolvidos, os conflitos socioambientais, as estratégias, o objetivo, o meio de divulgação e os resultados alcançados. A EA crítica pode contribuir para: a mediação dos conflitos; a conservação da biosociodiversidade; o protagonismo dos grupos vulneráveis e sua participação na tomada de decisão.
Beyond ‘Community Craft Specialisation’ in Prehistoric Mainland Southeast Asian Metallurgy: Copper Smelting Behaviours at Khao Sai On, Nil Kham Haeng, Non Pa Wai, Phromthin Tai, and Tha Kae in Central Thailand
Authors: Cadet Mélissa , Pryce T.O. , Rispoli Fiorella , Ciarla Roberto , Venunan Pira , Lertcharnrit Thanik , Iizuka Yoshiyuki
Published: July 2024

Archaeology in Lopburi Province has been under long-term development since the 1970s and has led to the discovery of Khao Wang Prachan Valley (KWPV) as one of three currently known primary
copper production (mining and smelting) sites in Southeast Asia. However, since the 1980s, archaeometallurgical research has focused mainly on the two sites of Non Pa Wai (NPW) and Nil
Kham Haeng (NKH), dated from the Neolithic (ca. 1800 B.C.) to Early Iron Age (ca. 2300 B.C.), that are known to have large sequences of archaeological material linked to copper production. Although
other sites with evidence of copper production are known in this restricted geographical area, their assemblages have not previously been subjected to archaeometric study. This article discusses the
results of archaeometallurgical analyses of slags from Khao Sai On (KSO), Tha Kae (TK), and Phromthin Tai (PTT) with sequences dated during the Middle-Late Iron Age. Slag analysis reveals
that different smelting behaviours were occurring at these sites. One heterogenous smelting behaviour at Khao Sai On was probably linked to a smaller community practicing metallurgy among
other activities, while Phromthin Tai shows more homogeneous production linked to a larger settlement. Although these three sites are located within 26 km of each other, smelters were probably
exploiting different local copper deposits around KWPV. The results seem to support a community based type of production where production behaviours are linked to local geology, technical competence, and intensity of exploitation.
Not Seeing the Woods for the Words: the Bilingual Landscape and Language of Cill Chaise/Kilcash
Authors: O'Kane Finola
Published: July 2024

Abstract: Eighteenth-century Ireland was well-toured by many distinguished travel writers, yet many of them remained strangely silent about language, surely one of the most significant, if intangible, attributes of any human environment. Did these travelers ever think of their deficiencies in understanding the Irish language, sometimes the only language spoken by a majority of a locality's population? Were bilingualism and its communicative advantages and disadvantages at all present in their books and letters? The early nineteenth-century plan and poem of Tipperary's Cill Chaise/Kilcash evoke the bilingual language and landscape of early nineteenth-century Ireland, before both were axed over the course of the romantic era. Together they demonstrate how a landscape may be described and voiced in two ways and how each decodes the other by means of a conjoined history.
Implementation of a high-resolution micro-grating accelerometer using a subdivision interpolation technique
Authors: Peng Haifeng , Tang Jiuhui , Guo Shangzhou , Jin Li , Xie Kunyang , Li Mengwei
Published: July 2024

This paper proposes a subdivision interpolation technique for
an optical accelerometer based
on diffraction grating interferometry. The diffraction light intensity
curve presents a sine shape with the increase of
the acceleration. To address
the issues of linearization signal processing across the entire range,
a subdivision interpolation circuit is employed, in conjunction with a
90° phase shift and high-precision DC bias-voltage techniques,
converting an analog signal with sinusoidal characteristics from the
photodetector into standard incremental digital signals that vary
linearly over the full range. The novel methodology, to the best of
our knowledge, ensures that its performance is least affected by the
phase imbalance, offset error, and amplitude mismatch induced by
fabrication and alignment errors of the grating, achieving
high-resolution digital signal output. The experiment results reveal
that the optical accelerometer based on grating interferometry
achieved a sensitivity of 85.2 V/g, a resolution of
137.6 µg, as well as a subdivision interpolation factor of 45.
This work provides a significant guide for the development of
high-resolution MOEMS accelerometers in practical applications.
Design of a mode-dependent-loss controller using a long-period fiber grating with coating material for a 2LP-mode transmission system
Authors: Kimura Takumi , Sato Takanori , Wada Masaki , Mori Takayoshi , Sakamoto Taiji , Imada Ryota , Matsui Takashi , Nakajima Kazuhide , Saitoh Kunimasa
Published: July 2024

We designed a mode equalizer to handle mode-dependent loss (MDL) in mode division multiplexing systems. The proposed equalizer is based on a step-index long-period fiber grating (LPFG) and designed to attenuate the LP01 core mode while providing high transmission of the LP11 core mode. For a practical fiber design, we assumed a coating material with a higher refractive index than the cladding. Consequently, numerous leaky cladding modes should be analyzed. This study focuses on identifying the optimal core parameters to efficiently equalize MDL.
Implicit calibration method for underwater stereo cameras
Authors: Meng Fanyi , Yu Yin , Guo Kai , Song Zhu , Liang Anbang , He Li , Zhang Dejin
Published: July 2024

Underwater stereo cameras can effectively capture intricate environments with restricted accessibility, offering an appealing solution for precise perception. Stereo imaging is however susceptible to distortions caused by the refraction of incoming rays. These distortions are nonlinear and challenge the standard single viewpoint projection assumption. In this paper, we propose a data-driven implicit calibration method for underwater stereo cameras. To address the imaging characteristics and aberration distributions across different coordinates of underwater stereo cameras, we have developed the corresponding coordinates regression network and fusion strategy, thereby converting the calibration process into network-based learning. Secondly, we designed an underwater self-luminous calibration target system and the underwater corner point extraction strategy for sample dataset acquisition. We evaluated the proposed method comprehensively in terms of measurement, camera posture estimation, and 3D reconstruction, and compared it with other explicit calibration methods. The experimental results show that the proposed implicit calibration method is superior to other explicit calibration. We demonstrate with real experiments that our method enables efficient camera calibration for underwater vision applications.
Low-complexity two-stage carrier phase recovery using principal component reconstruction analysis and optimal decision maximum likelihood for PS-MQAM systems
Authors: Tang Xue , Ren Jianxin , Liu Bo , Mao Yaya , Wu Xiangyu , Song Xiumin , Chen Shuaidong , Ullah Rahat , Zhao Lilong , Li Ying
Published: July 2024

A low-complexity two-stage carrier phase recovery (CPR) scheme based on principal component reconstruction analysis and optimal decision maximum likelihood (PCRA-OML) is proposed for probabilistic shaping (PS)-M quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM) coherent optical communication systems. In the first stage, symbols on the QPSK-shaped ring are selected, their amplitude noise is eliminated, and their amplitudes are increased, thus completing the reconstruction of the principal component. Lastly, the carrier phase is recovered using principal component phase estimation (PCPE). In the second stage, a maximum likelihood phase estimation algorithm based on optimal decision-making is employed to further enhance the stability and robustness of the scheme. The effectiveness of the proposed scheme is validated through 28 GBaud polarization division multiplexing PS-64QAM simulations and 28 GBaud PS-16QAM experiments. The experimental results indicate that in the PS-16QAM entropy of 3 bit/symbol system, when the threshold for normalized generalized mutual information is 0.9, the proposed scheme provides a 1.7 dB optical signal-to-noise ratio (OSNR) gain compared to blind phase search (BPS), and an additional 0.9 dB OSNR gain compared to the PCPE scheme. The proposed PCRA-OML scheme exhibits versatility across various shaping strengths and is less susceptible to probabilistic influences than the BPS and PCPE schemes. Additionally, under the premise of comparable performance in the PS-64QAM system, the proposed scheme reduces over 90% of the computational complexity associated with multiplication compared to BPS. In the PS-16QAM system, the proposed scheme's real multiplication complexity is only 17.8% of BPS, achieving an overall O(N) complexity.
Phase estimation via coherent and photon-catalyzed squeezed vacuum states
Authors: Zhao Zekun , Kang Qingqian , Zhang Huan , Zhao Teng , Liu Cunjin , Hu Liyun
Published: July 2024

The research focused on enhancing the measurement accuracy through the use of non-Gaussian states has garnered increasing attention. In this study, we propose a scheme to input the coherent state mixed with a photon-catalyzed squeezed vacuum state into the Mach-Zender interferometer to enhance phase measurement accuracy. The findings demonstrate that photon catalysis, particularly multi-photon catalysis, can effectively improve the phase sensitivity of parity detection and the quantum Fisher information. Moreover, the situation of photon losses in practical measurement was studied. The results indicate that external dissipation has a greater influence on phase sensitivity than the internal dissipation. Compared to input coherent state mixed with squeezed vacuum state, the utilization of coherent state mixed photon-catalyzed squeezed vacuum state, particularly the mixed multi-photon catalyzed squeezed vacuum state as input, can enhance the phase sensitivity and quantum Fisher information. Furthermore, the phase measurement accuracy can exceed the standard quantum limit, and even surpass the Heisenberg limit. This research is expected to significantly contribute to quantum precision measurement.
Fast view-specific generation of high-definition holograms with enhanced quality
Authors: Lagrange Antoine , Gilles Antonin , Heggarty Kevin , Fracasso Bruno
Published: July 2024

Holography is often considered as the most promising immersive technology because it provides all the depth cues of the human visual system. Some limitations still need to be overcome such as the huge computational load of high-definition holograms and the noise introduced in the reconstructed scene during the quantization process. In this paper, we propose what we believe is a novel view-specific layer-based stereogram approach combined with a view-dependent error diffusion algorithm that aims to solve those limitations. This method selects the light waves of the 3D scene that reach a specific viewing area and leverages this particular configuration to apply an error diffusion algorithm. Two additional quality enhancement features are observed: the reduction of the conjugate order perceptibility and the increased brightness of the reconstructed scene. Numerical and optical experiments demonstrate the time savings and quality enhancements of our approach.
Chiral whispering gallery modes and chirality-dependent symmetric optical force induced by a spin-polarized surface wave of photonic Dirac semimetal
Authors: Zhao Yu , Chan Hsun-Chi , Bi Ke , Duan Gaoyan , Liu Maoxin , Xie Nan , Yang Yang
Published: July 2024

Dirac degeneracy is a fourfold band crossing point in a three-dimensional momentum space, which possesses Fermi-arc-like surface states, and has extensive application prospects. In this work, we systematically study the exceptional effects of the robust chiral surface wave supported by photonic Dirac semimetal acts on the dielectric particles. Theoretical results show that orthogonal electromagnetic modes and helical or chiral whispering gallery modes (WGMs) of dielectric particles can be efficiently excited by the unidirectional spin-polarized surface wave. More importantly, optical forces exerted by the spin-polarized surface wave exhibit chirality-dependent symmetric behavior and high chiral Q factor with precise size selectivity. Our findings may provide potential applications in the area of chiral microcavity, spin optical devices, and optical manipulations.
Image reconstruction through a nonlinear scattering medium via deep learning
Authors: Yan Shuo , Sun Yiwei , Ni Fengchao , Liu Zhanwei , Liu Haigang , Chen Xianfeng
Published: July 2024

Image reconstruction through the opaque medium has great significance in fields of biophotonics, optical imaging, mesoscopic physics, and optical communications. Previous researches are limited in the simple linear scattering process. Here, we develop a nonlinear speckle decoder network, which can reconstruct the phase information of the fundamental frequency wave via the nonlinear scattering signal. Further, we validate the ability of our model to recover simple and complex structures by using MNIST and CIFAR data sets, respectively. We then show that the model is able to restore the image information through different sets of nonlinear diffusers and reconstruct the image of a kind of completely unseen object category. The proposed method paves the way to nonlinear scattering imaging and information encryption.
Proximal femoral nail antirotation versus InterTan nail for the treatment of intertrochanteric fractures: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Liao Chang-sheng , He Fang-zheng , Li Xi-yong , Han Peng-fei
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This meta-analysis compared the efficacy and safety of Proximal Femoral Nail Antirotation (PFNA) and InterTan Nail in the treatment of intertrochanteric fractures. Given the high incidence of femoral intertrochanteric fractures in the elderly population and its impact on quality of life, choosing the most effective and safest surgical option is crucial. PFNA and InterTan are currently two commonly used techniques, but there is a lack of systematic evaluation comparing their safety and effectiveness. This study aims to fill this knowledge gap through Meta-analysis, providing clinicians with evidence-based treatment recommendations.

Materials and methods

A computer search was used to search for published literature on PFNA and InterTan in the treatment of intertrochanteric fractures in PubMed (Medline), Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane Library (CENTRAL), Cinahl, CBM, and CNKI.A total of 853 related literatures were retrieved, and 15 literatures were finally included. Newcastle-Ottawa-Scale and Cochrane systematic review methodologies were used to assess the quality of the literature. Meta-analysis was performed using Review Manager 5.4 software, following data extraction.

Results

The comparison found that during the surgical treatment of intertrochanteric fractures, the operation time, fluoroscopy time, and blood loss in the PFNA group were significantly shorter than those in the InterTan group, and the difference was statistically significant. In terms of postoperative complication rates, the InterTan group had a significant advantage over the PFNA group. Shaft fracture, varus collapse, cut out, screw migration, and pain of hip and thigh were the most likely to occur in the PFNA group, and the differences were all statistically significant. In terms of postoperative efficacy, the results of the PFNA group and the InterTan group were comparable, and there was no significant differences.

Conclusions

When selecting surgical techniques for the treatment of femoral intertrochanteric fractures, it is necessary to conduct individualized assessments based on the patient’s overall health status, surgical tolerance, and post-operative recovery needs. For patients who cannot tolerate long-term surgery or are in poor physical condition, PFNA may be more appropriate. While for patients who can tolerate long-term surgery or have more complex conditions, InterTan may be more suitable.
Exploring children and young people’s experience of participating in citizen science–A qualitative evidence synthesis
Authors: Frazer Marie T. , Creaser Amy , Tatterton Michael J. , Daly-Smith Andy , Hall Jen
Published: July 2024

Objective

Citizen science with young people is becoming increasingly popular, and understanding their experience is valuable as it can improve research through improved participant motivation/ retention, alongside greater insight. The participants can benefit through opportunities to improve self-efficacy, learning, communication, and relationships. However, studies that explore young people’s experience of participating in citizen science have not been synthesised.

Methods

This qualitative thematic synthesis aimed to combine the literature on young citizen scientists’ experience of participating in citizen science research studies. Seven databases, Google Scholar and The Journal of Citizen Science Theory and Practice were searched from 2012 to January 2022 and updated in May 2023. The screening included identifying articles by scanning titles and abstracts and, finally, full texts and selecting the articles using inclusion and exclusion criteria. The study findings were synthesised using inductive thematic synthesis (Prospero registration CRD42022299973).

Results

Out of 3856 identified articles, 33 studies focusing on the participant experience were included in the synthesis. These papers were coded inductively. The resulting analytical structures were discussed and finalised. The researchers identified three main themes representing aspects of participant experience: relationships, power and personal growth, and three interwoven connecting themes: communication, self-efficacy and decision-making. An illustration of this would be communication bridging relationships and personal growth. As the citizen scientists’ communication skills developed through personal growth, their relationships changed both with the project, with the researchers and with wider stakeholders outside the project such as school staff.

Conclusion

These findings provide a comprehensive understanding of participant experience and how this can be used to inform future citizen science projects to facilitate a positive participant experience.
Does internet use benefit health?—PSM-DID evidence from China’s CHARLS
Authors: Liao Yinkai , Luo Nengsheng
Published: July 2024

Amid the increasing global internet penetration, understanding the impact of internet use on residents’ health is crucial. This aids in formulating more effective health policies and provides empirical evidence for promoting health equity and improving overall public health. Drawing on the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS), this paper employs the Propensity Score Matching-Difference in Differences (PSM-DID) method to examine the impact of the internet on individual health and further explores the pathways through which the internet affects health. We introduce the research background and significance in the introduction. Then, in the theoretical analysis, it incorporates internet variables into the Becker health demand model to analyze changes in health demand and impact pathways. The empirical analysis tests the theoretical findings, leading to empirical results. Finally, the study discusses the results and provides relevant recommendations. The findings indicate significant positive effects of the internet on both physical and psychological health. These effects are realized through reducing health information asymmetry, lowering health costs, and increasing exposure to health-promoting environments. In the heterogeneity analysis, economic-related internet content shows a significant positive impact on resident health. Intensive internet use adversely affects psychological health. The beneficial effects of the internet on health are more pronounced among older individuals, those covered by medical insurance, and regions with higher levels of digital economy. Based on these findings, the study offers policy recommendations concerning individuals’ internet use patterns, the digital evolution of the healthcare industry, and government infrastructure development.
Research on short-term power load forecasting based on VMD and GRU
Authors: Sun Haoyue , Yu Zhicheng , Zhang Bining
Published: July 2024

The traditional method for power load forecasting is susceptible to various factors, including holidays, seasonal variations, weather conditions, and more. These factors make it challenging to ensure the accuracy of forecasting results. Additionally, there is a limitation in extracting meaningful physical signs from power data, which ultimately reduces prediction accuracy. This paper aims to address these issues by introducing a novel approach called VCAG (Variable Mode Decomposition—Convolutional Neural Network—Attention Mechanism—Gated Recurrent Unit) for combined power load forecasting. In this approach, we integrate Variable Mode Decomposition (VMD) with Convolutional Neural Network (CNN). VMD is employed to decompose power load data, extracting valuable time-frequency features from each component. These features then serve as input for the CNN. Subsequently, an attention mechanism is applied to give importance to specific features generated by the CNN, enhancing the weight of crucial information. Finally, the weighted features are fed into a Gated Recurrent Unit (GRU) network for time series modeling, ultimately yielding accurate load forecasting results.To validate the effectiveness of our proposed model, we conducted experiments using two publicly available datasets. The results of these experiments demonstrate that our VCAG method achieves high accuracy and stability in power load forecasting, effectively overcoming the limitations associated with traditional forecasting techniques. As a result, this approach holds significant promise for broad applications in the field of power load forecasting.
Identification and validation of diagnostic cut-offs of the ELISpot assay for the diagnosis of invasive aspergillosis in high-risk patients
Authors: Bettelli Francesca , Vallerini Daniela , Lagreca Ivana , Barozzi Patrizia , Riva Giovanni , Nasillo Vincenzo , Paolini Ambra , D’Amico Roberto , Forghieri Fabio , Morselli Monica , Pioli Valeria , Gilioli Andrea , Giusti Davide , Messerotti Andrea , Bresciani Paola , Cuoghi Angela , Colaci Elisabetta , Marasca Roberto , Pagano Livio , Candoni Anna , Maertens Johan , Viale Pierluigi , Mussini Cristina , Manfredini Rossella , Tagliafico Enrico , Sarti Mario , Trenti Tommaso , Lewis Russell , Comoli Patrizia , Eccher Albino , Luppi Mario , Potenza Leonardo
Published: July 2024

Objective

We investigated the performance of enzyme linked immunospot (ELISpot) assay for the diagnosis of invasive aspergillosis (IA) in high-risk patients with hematologic malignancies.

Methods

We prospectively enrolled two cohorts of patients undergoing intensive myelosuppressive or immunosuppressive treatments at high risk for IA. ELISpot was performed to detect Aspergillus-specific T cells producing Interleukin-10.

Results

In the discovery cohort, a derived cut-off of 40 spot forming cells (SFCs)/106 PBMCs has shown to correctly classify IA cases with a sensitivity and specificity of 89.5% and 88.6%, respectively. This cut-off is lowered to 25 SFC when considering the subset of possible IA patients, with sensitivity and specificity of 76% and 93%, respectively. The application of the 40 SFCs cut-off to the validation cohort resulted in a positivity rate of 83.3% in proven/probable cases and a negativity rate of 92.5% in possible/non-IA cases. Adopting the 25 SCFs cut-off, the assay resulted positive in 83.3% of proven/probable cases while it resulted negative in 66.7% of possible/non-IA cases.

Conclusions

ELISpot shows promises in the diagnosis of IA and the possibility to use two distinct cut-offs with similar diagnostic performances according to patients’ different pre-test probability of infection can widen its use in patients at risk.
Prevalence of hepatitis A virus among migrant workers in Qatar: A national study
Authors: Younes Nadin , Chemaitelly Hiam , Nizamuddin Parveen Banu , Al-Hamad Tasneem , Abdallah Marah , Yassine Hadi M. , Abu-Raddad Laith J. , Nasrallah Gheyath K.
Published: July 2024

Background

Hepatitis A virus (HAV) is the predominant cause of acute viral hepatitis worldwide; however, data on HAV antibody prevalence (seroprevalence) among migrant populations are limited. This study aimed to investigate HAV seroprevalence among Qatar’s migrant craft and manual workers (CMWs), constituting approximately 60% of the country’s population.

Methods

HAV antibody testing was conducted on stored serum specimens obtained from CMWs during a nationwide severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) population-based cross-sectional survey between July 26 and September 9, 2020. Associations with HAV infection were investigated through regression analyses.

Results

Of the 2,607 specimens with HAV antibody test results, 2,393 were positive, and 214 were negative. The estimated HAV seroprevalence among CMWs was 92.0% (95% CI: 90.9–93.1%). HAV seroprevalence was generally high but exhibited some variation, ranging from 70.9% (95% CI: 62.4–78.2%) among Sri Lankans to 99.8% (95% CI: 98.2–99.9%) among Pakistanis. The multivariable regression analysis identified age, nationality, and educational attainment as statistically significant factors associated with HAV infection. Relative to CMWs aged ≤29 years, the adjusted relative risk (ARR) was 1.06 (95% CI: 1.03–1.10) in CMWs aged 30–39 years and reached 1.15 (95% CI: 1.10–1.19) in those aged ≥50 years. In comparison to Indians, the ARR was lower among Sri Lankans, assessed at 0.81 (95% CI: 0.72–0.91), but higher among Nepalese at 1.07 (95% CI: 1.04–1.11), Bangladeshis at 1.10 (95% CI: 1.07–1.13), Pakistanis at 1.12 (95% CI: 1.09–1.15), and Egyptians at 1.15 (95% CI: 1.08–1.23). No evidence for differences was found by geographic location or occupation.

Conclusions

HAV seroprevalence among Qatar’s CMW population is very high, with over nine out of every ten individuals having been exposed to this infection, likely during childhood.
Patent ductus arteriosus (also non-hemodynamically significant) correlates with poor outcomes in very low birth weight infants. A multicenter cohort study
Authors: Chesi Elena , Rossi Katia , Ancora Gina , Baraldi Cecilia , Corradi Mara , Di Dio Francesco , Di Fazzio Giorgia , Galletti Silvia , Mescoli Giovanna , Papa Irene , Solinas Agostina , Braglia Luca , Di Caprio Antonella , Cuoghi Costantini Riccardo , Miselli Francesca , Berardi Alberto , Gargano Giancarlo
Published: July 2024

Objectives

To standardize the diagnosis of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) and report its association with adverse neonatal outcomes in very low birth weight infants (VLBW, birth weight < 1500 g).

Study design

A multicenter prospective observational study was conducted in Emilia Romagna from March 2018 to October 2019. The association between ultrasound grading of PDA and adverse neonatal outcomes was evaluated after correction for gestational age. A diagnosis of hemodynamically significant PDA (hsPDA) was established when the PDA diameter was ≥ 1.6 mm at the pulmonary end with growing or pulsatile flow pattern, and at least 2 of 3 indexes of pulmonary overcirculation and/or systemic hypoperfusion were present.

Results

218 VLBW infants were included. Among infants treated for PDA closure in the first postnatal week, up to 40% did not have hsPDA on ultrasound, but experienced clinical worsening. The risk of death was 15 times higher among neonates with non-hemodynamically significant PDA (non-hsPDA) compared to neonates with no PDA. In contrast, the risk of death was similar between neonates with hsPDA and neonates with no PDA. The occurrence of BPD was 6-fold higher among neonates with hsPDA, with no apparent beneficial role of early treatment for PDA closure. The risk of IVH (grade ≥ 3) and ROP (grade ≥ 3) increased by 8.7-fold and 18-fold, respectively, when both systemic hypoperfusion and pulmonary overcirculation were present in hsPDA.

Conclusions

The increased risk of mortality in neonates with non-hsPDA underscores the potential inadequacy of criteria for defining hsPDA within the first 3 postnatal days (as they may be adversely affected by other clinically severe factors, i.e. persistent pulmonary hypertension and mechanical ventilation). Parameters such as length, diameter, and morphology may serve as more suitable ultrasound indicators during this period, to be combined with clinical data for individualized management. Additionally, BPD, IVH (grade ≥ 3) and ROP (grade ≥ 3) are associated with hsPDA. The existence of an optimal timeframe for closing PDA to minimize these adverse neonatal outcomes remains uncertain.
Practices and preferences for HIV testing and treatment services amongst partners of transgender women in Lima, Peru: An exploratory, mixed methods study
Authors: Kazmirak Claudia , Tollefson Deanna , Lankowski Alexander , Sanchez Hugo , Gonzales Ivan , Espinoza Dianne , Duerr Ann
Published: July 2024

Background

In Peru, one-third of transgender women (TW) are estimated to be living with HIV. While TW are recognized as a priority population, their sexual partners are an at-risk hidden population with unmet needs for HIV services. We conducted a study examining the practices and preferences for HIV services among partners of transgender women (PTW), as compared to TW, to better understand the needs of PTW and inform HIV service delivery for them in Peru.

Methods

Between July-October 2022 we conducted a cross-sectional mixed methods study among PTW and TW in Lima, Peru. Using an explanatory sequential design, we administered online surveys to PTW (n = 165) and TW (n = 69), then interviewed a subset of participants (n = 20: 16 PTW, 4 TW). We quantitatively and qualitatively described PTW practices/perspectives on HIV testing and treatment and compared them to TW practices/preferences; we also compared practices/preferences among PTW based on their relationship with TW.

Results

Overall, PTW and TW shared similar experiences and preferences for HIV testing/treatment, but fewer PTW reported accessing non-traditional HIV testing options and PTW expressed less strong preferences for HIV services. PTW practices/preferences varied by type of relationship with TWs. Surveys and interviews highlighted a need to prioritize efficiency for HIV testing, eliminate gender/sexuality-based discrimination in healthcare settings, increase privacy when delivering HIV services, and increase awareness of pre-exposure prophylaxis.

Conclusion

PTW identified many aspects related to the location, convenience, and privacy of HIV services as important. Next steps could include a discrete choice experiment to further clarify priorities for HIV services for PTW in Peru.
Epistatic interaction between ERAP2 and HLA modulates HIV-1 adaptation and disease outcome in an Australian population
Authors: Al-kaabi Marwah , Deshpande Pooja , Firth Martin , Pavlos Rebecca , Chopra Abha , Basiri Hamed , Currenti Jennifer , Alves Eric , Kalams Spyros , Fellay Jacques , Phillips Elizabeth , Mallal Simon , John Mina , Gaudieri Silvana
Published: July 2024

A strong genetic predictor of outcome following untreated HIV-1 infection is the carriage of specific alleles of human leukocyte antigens (HLAs) that present viral epitopes to T cells. Residual variation in outcome measures may be attributed, in part, to viral adaptation to HLA-restricted T cell responses. Variants of the endoplasmic reticulum aminopeptidases (ERAPs) influence the repertoire of T cell epitopes presented by HLA alleles as they trim pathogen-derived peptide precursors to optimal lengths for antigen presentation, along with other functions unrelated to antigen presentation. We investigated whether ERAP variants influence HLA-associated HIV-1 adaptation with demonstrable effects on overall HIV-1 disease outcome. Utilizing host and viral data of 249 West Australian individuals with HIV-1 subtype B infection, we identified a novel association between two linked ERAP2 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs; rs2248374 and rs2549782) with plasma HIV RNA concentration (viral load) (P adjusted = 0.0024 for both SNPs). Greater HLA-associated HIV-1 adaptation in the HIV-1 Gag gene correlated significantly with higher viral load, lower CD4+ T cell count and proportion; P = 0.0103, P = 0.0061, P = 0.0061, respectively). When considered together, there was a significant interaction between the two ERAP2 SNPs and HLA-associated HIV-1 adaptation on viral load (P = 0.0111). In a comprehensive multivariate model, addition of ERAP2 haplotypes and HLA associated adaptation as an interaction term to known HLA and CCR5 determinants and demographic factors, increased the explanatory variance of population viral load from 17.67% to 45.1% in this dataset. These effects were not replicated in publicly available datasets with comparably sized cohorts, suggesting that any true global epistasis may be dependent on specific HLA-ERAP allelic combinations. Our data raises the possibility that ERAP2 variants may shape peptide repertoires presented to HLA class I-restricted T cells to modulate the degree of viral adaptation within individuals, in turn contributing to disease variability at the population level. Analyses of other populations and experimental studies, ideally with locally derived ERAP genotyping and HLA-specific viral adaptations are needed to elucidate this further.
El concejo de Alcalá de Henares al servicio de las necesidades de la Monarquía Hispánica tras las rebeliones de 1640
Authors: Cano López David
Published: July 2024

Este estudio en clave local pretende mostrar el potencial de los archivos municipales para tratar de comprender mejor cómo afectaron las sublevaciones de 1640 a localidades como Alcalá de Henares. En este sentido, abordamos dos objetivos fundamentales. El primero, profundizar en el irregular conocimiento del nivel de cooperación de los distintos territorios de la Monarquía respecto a su política militar a partir de las sublevaciones de Cataluña y Portugal de 1640. En segundo lugar, se pretende exponer el impacto económico que tuvo sobre la villa la política hacendística de Felipe IV en este periodo y qué medidas se tomaron en el concejo para poder satisfacer estas necesidades. Para conseguirlo, hemos analizado los libros de actas del concejo del Archivo Municipal de Alcalá de Henares, tratando de razonar sobre las deliberaciones y los acuerdos que se tomaron durante el periodo investigado para presentar una explicación lógica a los objetivos planteados. Las fuentes analizadas recogen las sesiones celebradas en las salas capitulares en las que participaron los principales actores de la vida política municipal. También se han podido consultar algunos documentos como cartas e instrumentos remitidos al municipio por el monarca o por sus oficiales reales. El resultado final de este trabajo demuestra las dificultades que atravesó el concejo para aportar los recursos económicos y humanos en una etapa tan convulsa. Con el transcurrir del tiempo la villa se vio incapacitada para remitir más milicianos, soldados e hijosdalgo. Intentar sustituir estos hombres por dinero obligó a tomar medidas a la administración municipal que pusieron al límite su capacidad económica.
MUÑOZ FERNÁNDEZ, Ángela y TIPPELSKIRCH, Xenia von (eds.), La Querella de las mujeres, Estella, Editorial Verbo Divino, 2023, 328 pp.
Authors: Fernández Arrillaga Inmaculada
Published: July 2024

Reseña del libro: MUÑOZ FERNÁNDEZ, Ángela y TIPPELSKIRCH, Xenia von (eds.), La Querella de las mujeres, Estella, Editorial Verbo Divino, 2023, 328 pp.
Emanuel Šlechta, engineer and entrepreneur in the First Republic of Czechoslovakia
Authors: Sedláček Jiří , Efmertová Marcela
Published: July 2024

This article traces the political, economic, and technical activities of Professor Emanuel Šlechta in the pre-war period and just after 1945. The aim is to answer the question: “What were Emanuel Šlechta’s activities during the First Republic and how did they help him in his later role as Czechoslovak Minister of Technology?” The text covers in chronological order the period between the two world wars, when Šlechta completed his technical studies in Prague and completed an internship in industrial factories in the USA, then gained crucial experience in the Bata concern, and gradually developed into an important national economist and expert in the field of labour organisation. This led to his appointment as a minister after World War II.
Understanding The Cultural Values in Traditional Sundanese Parenting: A Narrative Literature Review
Authors: Indah Fufut Tri Nur , Hastuti Dwi , Yuliati Lilik Noor
Published: July 2024

This study aims to consolidate and synthesize the existing literature on traditional parenting within the Sundanese Tribe using a narrative methodology. Employing a narrative literature review, this research integrates findings from various sources to comprehensively understand the cultural values inherent in traditional Sundanese parenting. The research questions were formulated using the PICO framework, focusing on the population of cultural values, the intervention of examining these within existing parenting literature, and the outcome of understanding unique cultural values. Data were sourced from Google Scholar and ScienceDirect, covering publications between 2019 and 2024. The findings highlight the centrality of spirituality and religiosity in Sundanese parenting, which intertwines religious teachings with everyday practices. Traditions such as rituals during pregnancy, childhood, and marriage play a crucial role in shaping social behaviors and instilling moral values. Mystical practices like pamali are also significant, serving as cultural norms that guide conduct and promote community harmony. The implications of these findings are significant for both academic research and practical applications, offering insights into educational programs, policies, and future research directions. However, limitations include potential biases from the reliance on existing literature and the focus on a single ethnic group, suggesting a need for further empirical and comparative studies.
President's Paragraph
Authors: Bick Dawn
Published: July 2024

In each issue of The Hoosier Science Teacher, we invite the president to share some thoughts as an introduction. In this issue, HASTI’s current President Dawn Bick offers a word of thanks to Indiana’s science teachers.
The Hoosier Science Teacher, Volume 47, Issue 1
Authors: HASTI Board of Directors
Published: July 2024

The Hoosier Science Teacher is the official journal published by the Hoosier Association of Science Teachers, Inc. Volume 47, Number 1
Safety and Effectiveness of Acellular Dermal Matrix in Breast-Conserving Surgery for Breast Cancer: A Single-Institution Study
Authors: Kim Yeon Jin , Choi Hyun Jung , Kim Wan Sung , Shin Hyuk Jai
Published: July 2024

Purpose: As breast-conserving surgery (BCS) has become the most common type of breast surgery, oncoplastic BCS has developed in response to improve cosmetic outcomes. Acellular dermal matrix (ADM) has been used as an adjunct to enhance cosmetic outcomes in partial breast reconstruction. This study aimed to evaluate postoperative complications, cosmetic satisfaction, and oncologic safety over a short-term follow-up period. Methods: This retrospective study included 26 patients who underwent BCS at Myongji Hospital between April 2019 and April 2021. All procedures were performed by three surgeons. We reviewed demographic data, histologic grades, tumor-node-metastasis stages, treatment modalities, and survival data based on patient medical records. Results: Of the 26 total patients, 5 developed seromas, which was the most common complication, and one patient experienced red breast syndrome. The incidence of complications per surgeon was less than 25%. The mean satisfaction score for the cosmetic outcome on a 10-point scale was 7.6 ( ± 2.1) as scored by patients and 8.8 ( ± 0.9) as scored by surgeons. Responses regarding cosmetic satisfaction revealed no significant differences among surgeons (p= 0.444). Of the 26 patients, four were lost to follow-up, and the mean follow-up period was 35.2 months. Two patients experienced recurrence, both of whom had regional recurrence with no local recurrence. Conclusion: ADM replacement is a favorable alternative to oncoplastic BCS, in terms of the ease of surgical procedures, minimal complications, and low rates of local recurrence.
RICE PRODUCTION AND CONSUMPTION OF FARMER HOUSEHOLDS IN PEKALONGAN REGENCY
Authors: Kharoh Isti , Sambodo Herman , Barokatuminalloh Barokatuminalloh
Published: July 2024

Pekalongan Regency is a district with the highest growth rate of the agricultural sector in Central Java, but conventional rice farmers face various problems including fluctuations in rice production, limited resources and farmers who have dual roles as producers and consumers. Further analysis of rice production and consumption among farmer households is needed to address this issue. Therefore, this study aims to examine the factors impacting rice production and consumption, as well as marketable surplus, among farmer households. The research was conducted in Kandangserang District as one of the highest rice producers with a sample of 95 farmers were taken by simple random sampling. The analytical tool used is ordinary least squares. based multiple linear regression. The findings indicate that seed quality, fertilizer use, and the presence of technology significantly impacted rice production, while land area, labor, and technology had no significant effect. Furthermore, the number of family members was a significant factor, while income and rice price had no significant impact to the consumption and the marketable surplus sold was determined to be 46.26%. Based on these results, it is recommended that farmers utilize quality seeds, balanced fertilizers, productive labor, and technology to increase the quantity and quality of rice production. Additionally, the consideration of alternative staple foods to rice may help to increase the marketable surplus available for sale.
Vegetation structure of associated flora in Amorphophallus gigas Teijsm. & Binn. (Araceae) habitats, North Padang Lawas Regency, North Sumatra
Authors: Rambey Ridahati , Rahmawaty  , Rauf Abdul , Nababan Esther Sorta Mauli , Delvian  , Aththorick T Alief , Ismail Mohd Hasmadi
Published: July 2024

Amorphophallus gigas, a native aroid species found in the tropical forests of Sumatra, Indonesia, lacks robust population data despite previous spatial distribution studies. While not officially protected, A. gigas is considered rare in field documentation and faces potential habitat loss due to its proximity to the popular corpse flower. This 2023 study conducted in Halongonan District, North Padang Lawas Regency, North Sumatra, Indonesia, aimed to gather information on the habitat characteristics and associated flora of A. gigas to guide land conservation initiatives. The research focused on a forested area within three villages: Bargot Topong Julu, Napa Lancat, and Pangirkiran, utilizing a purposive random sampling approach. Plots covering 1 ha each were selected based on Amorphophallus in the generative phase across various land covers. Ecological analysis and indices were derived from collected vegetation data. The survey unveiled varying numbers of generative and vegetative A. gigas individuals across the three study sites. The understorey community at each site exhibited different levels of association with A. gigas, with Selaginella willdenowii, Clidemia hirta, and Leersia virginica showing strong positive correlations. The floral community in A. gigas habitats displayed diverse species richness and diversity across different growth stages and locations. Findings suggest that altitude, slope, pH, light intensity, air temperature, and humidity may influence A. gigas abundance in distinct ways. This study offers valuable insights into the biological and ecological factors influencing the distribution and abundance of A. gigas populations, providing guidance for conservation and management efforts.
Retained Earnings, Foreign Portfolio Ownership, and the German Current Account: A Firm-Level Approach
Authors: Goldbach Stefan , Harms Philipp , Jochem Axel , Nitsch Volker , Weichenrieder Alfons J.
Published: July 2024

In some countries, a sizable fraction of savings is derived from corporate savings. Although larger, traded corporations are often co-owned by foreign portfolio investors, current international accounting standards allocate all corporate savings to the host country. This paper suggests a framework to correct for this misleading attribution and applies this concept to Germany. For the years 2012–2020, our corrections retrospectively reduce German savings and consequently the German current account surplus by, on average, €11.5 bn annually. This amounts to lowering Germany’s average official current account surplus (€226.6 bn) across these years by approximately five percent.