bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Weight-based disparities in perinatal care: quantitative findings of respect, autonomy, mistreatment, and body mass index in a national Canadian survey
Authors: Malhotra Nisha , Jevitt Cecilia M. , Stoll Kathrin , Phillips-Beck Wanda , Vedam Saraswathi ,   the RESPCCT Study Team
Published: November 2024

Background

Qualitative studies document episodes of weight-related disrespectful care, particularly for people with high body mass index (BMI ≥ 30) and reveal implicit and explicit biases in health care providers. No large quantitative studies document the pervasiveness of weight stigma or if experiences change with increasing BMI.

Methods

The multi-stakeholder RESPCCT study team designed and distributed a cross-sectional survey on the experiences of perinatal services in all provinces and territories in Canada. From July 2020 to August 2021, participants who had a pregnancy within ten years responded to closed and open-ended questions. Chi square analysis assessed differences in mean scores derived from three patient-reported experience measures of autonomy (MADM), respect (MOR), and mistreatment (MIST). Controlling for socio-demographic factors, multivariate logistic regression analysis explored relationships between different BMI categories and respectful care.

Results

Of 4,815 Canadians who participated, 3,280 with a BMI of ≥ 18.5 completed all the questions. Pre-pregnancy BMI was significantly associated with race/ethnicity, income sufficiency, and education but not with age. Individuals with higher BMIs were more likely to experience income insufficiency, have lower levels of education, and more frequently self-identified as Indigenous or White. Those with BMI ≥ 35 exhibited notably higher odds of reduced autonomy (MADM) scores, with an unadjusted odds ratio of 1.62 and an adjusted odds ratio of 1.45 compared to individuals with a normal weight. Individuals with BMIs of 25–25.9, 30–34.9, and ≥ 35 exhibited odds of falling into the lower tercile of respect (MOR) scores of 1.34, 1.51, and 2.04, respectively (p < .01). The odds of reporting higher rates of mistreatment (top 33% MIST scores) increased as BMI increased.

Conclusions

While socio-demographic factors like race and income play significant roles in influencing perinatal care experiences, BMI remains a critical determinant even after accounting for these variables. This study reveals pronounced disparities in the provision of respectful perinatal care to pregnant individuals with higher BMIs in Canada. Data suggest that those with higher BMIs face disrespect, discrimination, and mistreatment. Identification of implicit and explicit weight bias may give providers insight enabling them to provide more respectful care.
Art and design workshops at a residential care facility – social care professionals’ experiences of co-creation and participation in designing the physical environment
Authors: Wikström Ewa , Dahlin-Ivanoff Synneve , Gunn Maja , Lood Qarin
Published: November 2024

Background

Co-creation and participation among different user groups have been highlighted as pivotal for improving residential care facilities for older persons. However, more knowledge is needed on methods aiming to overcome challenges in constructing inclusive co-creation and participation processes. In particular, there is a need for knowledge concerning how art and design workshops could contribute to co-creation and participation of social care professionals designing the physical environment in residential care facilities. Therefore, this study aimed to examine how art and design workshops can contribute to co-creation and participation in designing the physical environment with residential care facility professionals.

Methods

A qualitative method was used to investigate social care professionals’ experiences. Data were collected through semi-structured group interviews and analysed with inspiration from Corbin and Strauss’s analysis method.

Results

This study concludes that art and design workshops could serve as deliberating and developing practices. First, the art and design workshop as a deliberating practice involves conditions that create a communication arena and space supporting professionals in sharing experiences and voicing different perspectives. Second, the art and design workshop, as a developing practice, supports shared agency through dialogue focusing on designing the physical environment in residential care facilities, using photographs, materials, and fabrics.

Conclusions

This research contributes to the understanding of the relevance of art and design workshops and co-creation between artists and social care professionals in designing the physical environment in residential care facilities. The study can be valuable in identifying important mechanisms that facilitate co-creation and participation among social care professionals, as well as the development of art and design as a tool for improving environments in residential care facilities. The research focuses on how art and design workshops could influence co-creation and participation through art and design from the perspective of social care professionals.
The politics of health systems policies during COVID-19: reflections on experiences from Latin America and the Caribbean
Authors: Flores Walter , Sullivan Alexis , Jerez Fernando , Rodríguez Daniela C.
Published: November 2024

Politics as the exercise of power always influence public policies–which reflects the multifaceted nature of decision-making–but “using politics” as a motivation for self-serving interests of government leaders and their allies poses problems. This article reviews the impacts of COVID-19 on health systems of the Latin American and Caribbean region from a political lens. We highlight the overriding influence of politics in health policies, weak governance structures that became compromised, exacerbation of corruption, and breakdowns in the communication and trust between governments and their citizens. There are many factors that did not work well-or as expected. For instance, the poor predictive ability of the Global Health Security Index, which showed that pre-pandemic assessments were deeply naive to how health systems evidence and expertise are uniquely vulnerable to politics. We argue that there is an urgent need to rethink health policy and systems frameworks-including metrics-at national and global level. There is also a need for new global health governance arrangements. The expected solidarity and collaboration among countries was trumped by the rich countries practice of gauging essential resources and vaccines and applying health diplomacy to the rest of the world, and the unchecked power of commercial corporations producing essential medical supplies and vaccines.
Different immunogens and prime-boost vaccination strategies affect the efficacy of recombinant candidate vaccines against pathogenic orthopoxviruses
Authors: Radaelli Antonia , Zanotto Carlo , Brambilla Chiara , Adami Tommaso , Paolini Francesca , Venuti Aldo , Manuka Adriana , Mehmeti Irsida , De Giuli Morghen Carlo
Published: November 2024

Although not as lethal as variola virus (VARV), the cause of smallpox, monkeypox virus (MPXV) represents a threat to public health, with important infection rates and mortality in several African countries and signs of spreading worldwide. MPXV may establish new reservoirs in non-endemic countries and can be considered a possible biological weapon. Human-to-human MPXV transmission is increasing with a growing susceptibility, coincident with the declining herd immunity against smallpox. The emerging threat of MPXV highlights the urgent need for protection from new zoonotic infections, as mankind is completely unprepared for encounters with new viruses. Preventive vaccination remains the most effective control against orthopoxviruses (OPXVs) such as MPXV and prime-boost vaccination strategies can significantly influence vaccine efficacy and enhance immune responses. Our study aimed at characterizing potential vaccine candidates against OPXV infections in a murine model using DNA, viral and protein recombinant vaccines using different prime-boost regimens. The experiments employed Vaccinia virus (VACV) A33, B5, L1, and A27 envelope proteins as immunogens for both priming and boosting. Priming was carried out using a mixture of four plasmids (4pVAXmix), and boosts employed fowlpox (FWPV) recombinants (4FPmix) and/or the purified recombinant proteins (4protmix), all of them expressing the same antigens. One or two doses of the same immunogens were tested and identical protocols were also compared for intranasal (i.n.) or intramuscular (i.m.) viral administration, before challenge with the highly pathogenic VACV VVIHD−J strain. Our results show that a single dose of any combined immunogen elicited a very low antibody response. Protein mixtures administered twice boosted the humoral response of DNA immunizations by electroporation (e. p.), but did not protect from viral challenge. The antibody neutralizing titer was inversely correlated with animals’ weight loss, which was initially similar in all of the groups after the challenge, but was then reversed in mice that had been primed twice with the DNA recombinants and boosted twice with the FWPV recombinants.
The efficacy of fiber-supplemented enteral nutrition in critically ill patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials with trial sequential analysis
Authors: Koch Jana Larissa , Lew Charles Chin Han , Kork Felix , Koch Alexander , Stoppe Christian , Heyland Daren K. , Dresen Ellen , Lee Zheng-Yii , Hill Aileen
Published: November 2024

Background

Evidence on the benefits of fiber-supplemented enteral nutrition (EN) in critically ill patients is inconsistent, and critical care nutrition guidelines lack recommendations based on high-quality evidence. This systematic review and meta-analysis (SRMA) aims to provide a current synthesis of the literature on this topic.

Methods

For this SRMA of randomized controlled trials (RCT), electronic databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL) were searched systematically from inception to January 2024 and updated in June 2024. Trials investigating clinical effects of fiber-supplemented EN versus placebo or usual care in adult critically ill patients were selected. Two independent reviewers extracted data and assessed the risk of bias of the included studies. Random-effect meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis (TSA) were conducted. The primary outcome was overall mortality, and one of the secondary outcomes was diarrhea incidence. Subgroup analyses were also performed for both outcomes.

Results

Twenty studies with 1405 critically ill patients were included. In conventional meta-analysis, fiber-supplemented EN was associated with a significant reduction of overall mortality (RR 0.66, 95% CI 0.47, 0.92, p = 0.01, I2 = 0%; 12 studies) and diarrhea incidence (RR 0.70, 95% CI 0.51, 0.96, p = 0.03, I2 = 51%; 11 studies). However, both outcomes were assessed to have very serious risk of bias, and, according to TSA, a type-1 error cannot be ruled out. No subgroup differences were found for the primary outcome.

Conclusion

Very low-certainty evidence suggests that fiber-supplemented EN has clinical benefits. High-quality multicenter RCTs with large sample sizes are needed to substantiate any firm recommendation for its routine use in this group of patients.

PROSPERO registration number: CRD42023492829.
A panoramic view of the molecular epidemiology, evolution, and cross-species transmission of rosaviruses
Authors: Zhang Minyi , Fan Shunchang , Liang Minyi , Wu Ruojun , Tian Jingli , Xian Juxian , Zhou Xiaofeng , Chen Qing
Published: November 2024

Rosavirus is a newly discovered member of the family Picornaviridae that was initially detected in wild rodents and subsequently in children with diarrhoea. Nevertheless, there is a significant gap in our understanding of the geographical distribution, phylogenetic relationships, evolutionary patterns, and transmission of rosaviruses. To address these issues, we analysed 434 rodents and shrews from five different species that were collected in southern China. Using PCR screening of faecal samples, we detected rosaviruses in Norway rats (Rattus norvegicus) and identified two previously undocumented host species: tanezumi rats (Rattus tanezumi) and Asian house shrews (Suncus murinus). Rosaviruses were particularly common in these animals, with an overall prevalence rate of 32.49% (141/434). For genetic and evolutionary analyses, we selected six representative positive samples to amplify the complete genomes of rosaviruses. Bayesian phylogenetic analysis suggested that our sequences clustered within the genus Rosavirus, where genotype B sequences are the closest relatives. The elevated nonsynonymous-to-synonymous ratios observed in rosavirus B may be attributed to relaxed selection pressures driven by virus spillover events. On the basis of the available data, it is hypothesized that the genus Rosavirus may have originated from Norway rats around the year 1339. In summary, these findings provide valuable insights into the complex evolutionary history of rosaviruses and underscore the urgent need for ongoing surveillance of this virus.
Hydraulic properties for a wide range of undisturbed and compacted French forest soils: in situ measurements and estimation with the BEST method
Authors: Martin Manon , Chanzy André , Lassabatere Laurent , Legout Arnaud , Pousse Noémie , Ruy Stéphane
Published: November 2024

Key message

The dataset provides hydraulic properties estimated using the Beerkan Estimation of Soil Transfer (BEST) method, on undisturbed and on compacted and rutted French forest soils. It allows a reliable assessment of the effect of traffic on soil permeability. However, hydraulic properties could not be estimated on extremely rutted soils, underscoring the necessity for tailored protocols for these conditions.
The psychodynamics of self-harm
Authors: Gibbons Rachel
Published: November 2024

This article examines the complex phenomenon of self-harm, exploring its motivations, theoretical underpinnings and the intricate transference and countertransference reactions that arise in clinical settings. It aims to integrate psychiatric understanding with contemporary theories of the impact of trauma on both the body and the mind, to deepen the knowledge of self-harm and increase the effectiveness of treatment approaches. The article argues for a nuanced view of self-harm and emphasises the need for compassionate, well-informed care. By addressing the psychodynamics of self-harm, the article seeks to improve therapeutic outcomes and foster an empathetic and effective clinical response. Fictitious case studies are used to illustrate these concepts, demonstrating the critical role of early attachment experiences and the challenges faced by healthcare providers in management.
Averaging method for the existence of singular canards in a two-cell inhibitory neural network
Authors: Liu Yaru , Liu Shenquan , Kurths Jürgen
Published: November 2024

Studies of firing rate neuronal competition models, as observed in binocular rivalry, showed that the variation of the stimulus parameters can lead to rich and interesting dynamics. We use the two-cell inhibitory neural network model to address the canards accompanied by the L

s
-typed mixed-mode oscillations (MMOs). Specifically, we prove the existence and asymptotic expression of canards for this two-cell model by the average method. Meanwhile, our simulation indicates that the results are in accordance with the theory. Our solution can provide ideas for determining and selecting weights in model fusion of machine learning.
Literackość. Modele, gradacje, eksperymenty
Authors: Balcerzan Edward
Published: November 2024

Każde nowe zjawisko literackie zagraża tożsamości literatury, ale i jej tożsamość potwierdza. Nowość inicjuje zmianę hierarchii tematów, powoduje deregulację norm wysłowienia, wzmaga zamieszanie pośród gatunków, wymusza rewizję granic oddzielających literaturę od nieliteratury i paraliteratury oraz komunikację werbalną od niewerbalnej. Najgłębsze wstrząsy i najgwałtowniejsze zwroty nie niszczą jednak uniwersalnego modelu literackości, dlatego pozostaje on nieodmiennie atrakcyjny dla pisarzy, tłumaczy, czytelników, krytyków, historyków i teoretyków sztuki słowa. Spośród wielu teorii „tego, co literackie”, wyróżnia się teoria sprzecznościowa. Powtarza się ona w kolejnych epokach i poetykach, utworach i manifestach – zachowawczych i nowatorskich, rodzimych i wzorowanych na inwencji cudzej. Literackość polega tu na zawieszeniu obowiązującej poza sztuką słowa formalno-logicznej normy niesprzeczności (lex contraditionis), wedle której nie mogą być uznane za równocześnie prawdziwe dwa przeciwstawne sądy na temat tego samego przedmiotu, ujęte w tym samym trwaniu. W komunikacji praktycznej nie jest dopuszczalne, by jednocześnie było A i nie-A; w komunikacji literackiej jest to nieodzowne. Nie chodzi tylko o sądy, ale o napięcia między aktywnymi w danym dziele literackim składnikami: sztucznością a naturalnością mowy, porządkiem a chaosem fabuły, eksperymentem a wznowieniem chwytów oswojonych, bezstronną obserwacją a stronniczą oceną świata, jego widzialnością a niewidzialnością, wyrażalnością a niewyrażalnością intuicji autorskich, orientacją realistyczną a imaginatywną itd. Model sprzecznościowy jest otwarty dla odmiennych stylów i poetyk – z uwagi na gradacyjny charakter wyzwalanych w literaturze energii.
Technical Note—Leveraging the Degree of Dynamic Substitution in Assortment and Inventory Planning
Authors: Zhang Jingwei , Ma Will , Topaloglu Huseyin
Published: November 2024

Optimizing Assortment and Inventory Under Stockout-Based Substitution

In the realm of retail, a common challenge arises when retailers must decide the set of substitutable products to offer and how much inventory to stock at the beginning of a selling season when customers choose and substitute among the products that are available to them. This problem is challenging, as the demand for each product is shaped by the inventories of all products and the substitution behavior. In this paper, Zhang, Ma, and Topaloglu focus on the stockout-based substitution and develop a novel rounding scheme based on a fluid relaxation. The authors provide a rigorous theoretical analysis of the method, improving earlier results. In particular, for the multinomial logit model, they achieve an optimality gap that does not depend on the number of products. This result has practical implications for online retailers with vast product varieties, ensuring reliable performance, even when both the demand and the number of products are large.
Enhancing perianal disease management with integrated physical and psychological approaches
Authors: Okpete Uchenna E , Byeon Haewon
Published: November 2024

This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the study by Hou et al , focusing on the complex interplay between psychological and physical factors in the post-operative recovery (POR) of patients with perianal diseases. The study sheds light on how illness perception, anxiety, and depression significantly influence recovery outcomes. Hou et al developed a predictive model that demonstrated high accuracy in identifying patients at risk of poor recovery. The article explores the critical role of pre-operative psychological assessment, highlighting the need for mental health support and personalized recovery plans in enhancing POR quality. A multidisciplinary approach, integrating mental health professionals with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other specialists, is emphasized to ensure comprehensive care for patients. The study’s findings serve as a call to integrate psychological care into surgical practice to optimize outcomes for patients with perianal diseases.
Adsorption of Amoxicillin using Oxidized Carbon Nanotubes of Aqueous Solution
Authors: Marvast Alireza Falahati , Poshtiri Ali Khanzadeh , Doniamali Farnaz , Saegh Alireza Saegh , Balarak Davoud , Siddiqui Shaziya Haseeb
Published: November 2024

The extensive therapeutic repertoire of antibiotics for both humans and animals has resulted in the direct or indirect release of these compounds into the environment, particularly into water ecosystems. Traditional methods for eliminating antibiotic residue from wastewater have proven to be largely ineffective, leading to a need for alternative treatments. As a result, there has been a significant increase in the attention given to other methods of antibiotic residue elimination. This paper presents the kinetic adsorption of Amoxicillin (AMX) onto Oxidized multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes (OMWCNTs). In the batch adsorption experiments, the focus was on exploring how initial concentration, temperature variations, and contact time affect the percentage of removal. Optimization strategies were then implemented to maximize the AMX adsorption capacity concurrently. A maximum of 98.71% AMX was removed at an optimum contact time 75 min and temperature 40 The rise in temperature led to an increase in adsorption capacity, signifying the endothermic nature of the adsorption reaction of AMX onto OMWCNTs, as observed in this study. When compared with other kinetic models, the R2 obtained using the PSO rate equation are markedly higher. Mechanisms such as electrostatic interactions, hydrophobic interactions, hydrogen bonding, and others facilitate antibiotic removal by OMWCNTs, providing technical backing for antibiotic wastewater treatment.
Green and Eco-friendly Adsorption of Tetracycline using Nano Sized Moringa oleifera: Thermodynamic and Kinetic Studies
Authors: Nikmaram Naser , Eslami Hamed , Poshtiri Ali Khanzadeh , Zisti Fatemeh , Balarak Davoud , Chandrika Kethineni
Published: November 2024

The extensive use of antibiotics in medicine for human and animals has led to the direct or indirect entrance of these chemicals into the environment, especially water bodies. Present research involves the production of low-cost nano-sized Moringa oleifera (NSMO) for examining the thermodynamics of tetracycline (TC) adsorption from aqueous solutions. Adsorption experiments in batches were carried out to investigate how contact time (ranging from 10 to 120 minutes) and solution temperatures (15, 30, and 45 degrees) at a constant pH of 7 affect TC removal. The findings from this research specified that the TC adsorption by the NSMO rises with increasing mixing time and temperature, suggesting that the process is of an endothermic nature. At an optimal contact time of 90 minutes and a temperature of 45 ℃, a maximum of 99.1% of TC (25 mg/L) was removed. This research demonstrates that NSMO serves as an accessible, cost-effective, and efficient biosorbent that is also environmentally friendly for eliminating TC from aqueous solutions.
Assessment of Wind Energy Potential and Selection of Wind Park Location on the Example of the Trusina Mountain Ridge (Republic of Srpska, Bosnia and Herzegovina)
Authors: Milovanović Zdravko , Branković Dejan , Janičić-Milovanović Valentina
Published: November 2024

By signing international declarations and conventions, Bosnia and Herzegovina undertook to promote the production of energy from renewable sources, including wind energy. Designing a wind turbine system at a location requires knowledge of information about wind characteristics and resources, including information about turbulence. A wind energy potential estimates contain a high degree of uncertainty. Using wind data, including the average wind speed, an estimate of resources and possible electricity production is defined, as well as a location specification for one or more turbines. The successful development and location of wind parks depends on the accuracy of the assessment. The end result is a defined possible number of wind turbines on the site and a proposal for their arrangement with micro locations for each of the wind turbines of the future wind park. Within this paper, an example of the analysis of the Trusina wind park, located on the mountain ridge of the same name on the border of the local communities of Nevesinje and Berkovići, Republic of Srpska – Bosnia and Herzegovina, is given. The measurement campaign and a more detailed analysis of the collected data from all measurement stations in Bosnia and Herzegovina will be of great importance and will serve in determining the most favorable locations for the installation of production capacities based on wind energy. The conducted analysis of wind potential on the example of the Trusina mountain ridge represents a small contribution to solving this issue.
A new typology of parties of the populist radical right: Fidesz’s radicalized conservatism and gender inequality in comparison to the Rassemblement National
Authors: Geva Dorit
Published: November 2024

This article argues for a bifurcation between parties of the populist radical right (PRR) that are genuinely ideologically conservative, especially in relation to gender and sexual politics, and those that are not. The article therefore proposes a new PRR party subtype – radicalized conservatism – which combines core PRR ideologies with religiously sourced conservatism. Four dimensions for identifying conservatism within PRR parties are proposed: (1) party relations to Christian democracy; (2) Church–party relations; (3) gender and sexual politics; and (4) knowledge politics. Next, these dimensions are applied in a comparison between France’s Rassemblement National and Hungary’s Fidesz parties. Fidesz is found to be a radicalized conservative party, in contrast to the Rassemblement National, which is not. While the two party subtypes overlap in several important ways, they hold different implications for contagion effects on gender and sexual (in)equality in Europe.
Claiming Space: Representations of Female Railway Travelers in Victorian Novels
Authors: Basu Chandrama
Published: November 2024

abstract: The emergence of passenger railways challenged separate spheres gender ideology in terms of public and personal space. The presence of women passengers threatened Victorian assumptions that travel is a masculine activity and railways are a masculine space. Women travelers were perceived as suspect, in terms of social standing and sexual reputation, especially if unaccompanied. This analysis explores representations of female rail-travelers in Victorian novels, whose increased mobility subverted and redefined gendered ideas about public and private spaces. The onset of railway travel marked a cultural shift contributing to the breakdown of separate spheres ideology.
Comprehensive interference characteristics of a three-parameter Hong–Ou–Mandel interferometer
Authors: Li Bai-hong , Wang Zhuo-zhuo , Li Qi-qi , Wang Peng-long , Chen Chang-hua , Yuan Bo-xin , Zhang Xiao-fei
Published: November 2024

We theoretically extend the original Hong–Ou–Mandel (HOM) interferometer to three parameters by concatenating 50:50 beam splitters with three independent and adjustable time delays. The coincidence probability of such an interferometer is obtained based on the linear transformation of the beam splitter matrix. We present a comprehensive analysis of the interference characteristics of the interferometer at different time delays with various types of frequency-correlated resources and input states. It is found that by properly setting the time delays, one can obtain typical interferograms that include multiple sub-interferograms associated with one- and two-parameter HOM interferometers, revealing richer and more complicated two-photon interference phenomena. In particular, additional enhancements of the interference signal at a specific delay can be achieved, and the symmetry of the interferograms on both sides can also be changed. This work provides comprehensive insights into the interference characteristics of the three-parameter HOM interferometer and enables the simultaneous optimal estimation of multiple time-delay parameters within a single interferometer, which holds potential for applications in multiparameter estimation and quantum metrology.
Optical spring tracking for enhancing quantum-limited interferometers
Authors: Aronson Scott , Pagano Ronald , Cullen Torrey , Cole Garrett D. , Corbitt Thomas
Published: November 2024

Modern interferometers such as LIGO have achieved sensitivities limited
by quantum noise, comprising radiation pressure and shot noise. To
mitigate this noise, a static system is employed that minimizes the
quantum noise within the measurement band. However, since
gravitational wave inspiral signals are a single frequency changing
over time, only noise at the chirp frequency needs to be minimized.
Here we demonstrate a proof-of-principle experiment of dynamically
tracking a target signal using an optical spring, resulting in an
increased signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). By injecting white noise to
simulate excess shot noise, we found the SNR increased by up to a
factor of 40 via dynamical tracking when compared to a static
configuration.
Spin–orbit interaction-mediated measurement of surface chirality
Authors: Baishya Upasana , Viswanathan Nirmal K.
Published: November 2024

The spin–orbit (σ − l) interaction in a focused-reflected beam of light results in spatially nonuniform polarization in the beam cross section due to the superposition of orthogonal field components and polarization-dependent interface reflection coefficients. Polarization filtering the output beam leads to an interchangeable transformation of l=∓2 charge vortex into two (∓) unit charge vortices, for σ = ±1 circular polarization of the input Gaussian beam. This transformation follows a trajectory, named optical vortex trajectory, that depends on the input beam’s σ and hence the l and reflecting surface characteristics. The vortex trajectory is used here to quantify both the sign and the magnitude of the chiral parameter of a quartz crystal. The Jones matrix-based simulation anticipates the chirality-dependent vortex trajectory that matches with experimental measurements.
Optical vibration sensor enabled by coupling mechanoluminescence with photostimulable phosphor
Authors: Guo Jiaxing , Chen Haisheng , Hu Minghao , Zhang Yang
Published: November 2024

In the working environment, machines without vibrations are non-existent. The abnormal operating conditions of machines can be discerned through characteristic patterns within vibration signals. Therefore, real-time, low-cost vibration sensing is essential for industrial applications to track the status of machines. Herein, we propose an optical vibration sensor that is self-powered, supporting on-demand visual readouts. Without external power, this prototype device can cover a broad frequency range from 50 to 800 Hz, fitting into most industrial machinery scenarios. Through finite element analysis and experimental validation, the device exhibits exceptional performance, with a predicted minimum detectable deformation as low as 0.19 µm. Notably, the device possesses vibration signal storage functionality and adopts near-infrared light to achieve on-demand readout, bringing a novel visual perspective to the fields of vibration sensing and equipment health diagnostics.
A cytoplasmic form of EHMT1N methylates viral proteins to enable inclusion body maturation and efficient viral replication
Authors: Biligiri Kriti Kestur , Sharma Nishi Raj , Mohanty Abhishek , Sarkar Debi Prasad , Vemula Praveen Kumar , Rampalli Shravanti
Published: November 2024

Protein lysine methyltransferases (PKMTs) methylate histone and non-histone proteins to regulate biological outcomes such as development and disease including viral infection. While PKMTs have been extensively studied for modulating the antiviral responses via host gene regulation, their role in methylation of proteins encoded by viruses and its impact on host–pathogen interactions remain poorly understood. In this study, we discovered distinct nucleo-cytoplasmic form of euchromatic histone methyltransferase 1 (EHMT1N/C), a PKMT, that phase separates into viral inclusion bodies (IBs) upon cytoplasmic RNA-virus infection (Sendai Virus). EHMT1N/C interacts with cytoplasmic EHMT2 and methylates SeV-Nucleoprotein upon infection. Elevated nucleoprotein methylation during infection correlated with coalescence of small IBs into large mature platforms for efficient replication. Inhibition of EHMT activity by pharmacological inhibitors or genetic depletion of EHMT1N/C reduced the size of IBs with a concomitant reduction in replication. Additionally, we also found that EHMT1 condensation is not restricted to SeV alone but was also seen upon pathogenic RNA viral infections caused by Chandipura and Dengue virus. Collectively, our work elucidates a new mechanism by which cytoplasmic EHMT1 acts as proviral host factor to regulate host–pathogen interaction.
Inducing sad recognition bias: A novel emotional probabilistic reward task and its affective consequences
Authors: Lee Seongbo , Kim Sang Hee
Published: November 2024

Recognition of sadness from facial expressions is associated with empathic responses. In this study, we devised an emotional probabilistic reward task (PRT) to facilitate sadness recognition and tested its effects on attentional and empathic responses to others in distress. During the emotional PRT, healthy participants were asked to discriminate between facial expressions subtly expressing sadness or anger. Reward feedback for correct sadness and anger recognition was provided, with different probabilities between the training (70% vs. 30%) and control groups (50% vs. 50%). Subsequently, participants performed a visual dot-probe task involving facial expressions of sadness, anger, fear, and happiness. They also completed an empathy rating task while viewing short video clips depicting people experiencing distressing or neutral events. The results showed that the training group developed greater recognition bias for sadness than the control group. Within the training group, sad recognition bias was positively associated with subsequent attentional orienting to sad faces and empathic concern towards distressed others. These findings suggest that the emotional PRT holds promise for modifying cognitive and emotional processes that are associated with empathy for others.
3-nitropyridine analogues as novel microtubule-targeting agents
Authors: Herman Jean , Vanstreels Els , Bardiot Dorothée , Prota Andrea E. , Gaillard Natacha , Gao Ling-Jie , Vercruysse Thomas , Persoons Leentje , Daems Tinne , Waer Mark , Herdewijn Piet , Louat Thierry , Steinmetz Michel O. , De Jonghe Steven , Sprangers Ben , Daelemans Dirk
Published: November 2024

Microtubule-targeting agents are an important class of anti-cancer drugs; their full potential is however not realized because of significant myelotoxicity and neurotoxicity. We here report 3-nitropyridine analogues as a novel group of microtubule-targeting agents with potent anti-cancer effects against a broad range of cancer types. We show that these 3-nitropyridines induce cell cycle arrest in the G2-M phase and inhibit tubulin polymerization by interacting with tubulin. Determination of the tubulin–4AZA2996 structure by X-ray crystallography demonstrated that this class of compounds binds to the colchicine-site of tubulin. Furthermore, the anti-cancer effect was demonstrated both in vitro and in vivo in a murine heterotopic xenograft model of colon cancer. When administered intravenously, 4AZA2891 effectively inhibited cancer growth. Whereas 3-nitropyridine compounds do not induce myelotoxicity at pharmacological doses, the neurotoxicity associated with microtubule-targeting agents is still present.
Effect of different running protocols on bone morphology and microarchitecture of the forelimbs in a male Wistar rat model
Authors: Xavier Andy , Bourzac Céline , Bensidhoum Morad , Mura Catherine , Portier Hugues , Pallu Stéphane
Published: November 2024

Background

It is accepted that the metabolic response of bone tissue depends on the intensity of the mechanical loads, but also on the type and frequency of stress applied to it. Physical exercise such as running involves stresses which, under certain conditions, have been shown to have the best osteogenic effects. However, at high intensity, it can be deleterious for bone tissue. Consequently, there is no clear consensus as to which running modality would have the best osteogenic effects.

Aim

Our objective was to compare the effects of three running modalities on morphological and micro-architectural parameters on forelimb bones.

Methods

Forty male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups: high intensity interval training (HIIT), continuous running, combined running ((alternating HIIT and continuous modalities) and sedentary (control). The morphometry, trabecular microarchitecture and cortical porosity of the ulna, radius and humerus were analyzed using micro-tomography.

Results

All three running modalities resulted in bone adaptation, with an increase in the diaphyseal diameter of all three bones. The combined running protocol had positive effects on the trabecular thickness in the distal ulna. The HIIT protocol resulted in an increase in both medio-lateral diameter and cortical bone area over total area (Ct.Ar/Tt.Ar) at the ulnar shaft compared with sedentary condition. Moreover, the HIIT protocol decreased the mean surface area of the medulla (Ma.Ar) according to sedentary condition at the ulnar shaft.

Conclusion

This study has shown that HIIT resulted in a decrease in trabecular bone fraction in favor of cortical bone area at the ulna.
Alfalfa leaf weevil larvae and adults feeding induces physiological change in defensive enzymes of alfalfa
Authors: Liu Hui , Wang Xuzhe , Ma Yong , Gao Wanshun , Ma Chunhui
Published: November 2024

When insects harm plants, they activate relevant enzyme systems for defense, and changes in enzyme activity, to a certain extent, reflect the host plant’s ability to resist insect damage. Alfalfa leaf weevils (Hypera postica Gyllenhal) are the main economic insect pest of alfalfa, which seriously affect its yield and quality. To clarify the effects of feeding induction by alfalfa leaf weevil larvae and adults on defense enzymes in alfalfa, ‘Zhongmu No. 1’ variety was used as the experimental material. Comprehensive correlation analysis and principal component analysis were used to evaluate the corresponding patterns of 12 physiological indicators of alfalfa induced by insect feeding of different densities. Results showed that after feeding induction by adult and larval alfalfa leaf weevils, total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), malondialdehyde (MDA), phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), tyrosine ammonia lyase (TAL), lipoxygenase (LOX), chymotrypsin inhibitors (CI), trypsin inhibitor (TI), and jasmonic acid (JA) in the alfalfa leaves increased with increasing feeding time. However, activities of catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POD), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and polyphenolic oxidase (PPO) in alfalfa leaves first increased and then decreased, showing a downward trend.
The role of objectification in young men’s perpetration of intimate partner violence
Authors: Sáenz Adriana Vargas , Haslam Nick
Published: November 2024

Theorists have argued that objectification is implicated in men’s violence against women. Growing correlational and experimental evidence supports this claim. However, little research has studied the link between objectification and violence perpetrated by intimate partners. Three studies examined this link in relation to several forms of violent behavior. Study 1 (N = 215) found that men who implicitly associated women with objects were more likely to perpetrate sexual and physical violence against their female romantic partner, independent of their levels of hostile sexism. Study 2 (N = 325) replicated this finding but examined automatic associations with men’s intimate partners rather than women as a class. Greater implicit objectification was again associated with self-reported physical violence and with a behavioral proxy measure of aggression among participants who responded most strongly to an experimental provocation. Study 3 (N = 192) manipulated objectification by inducing a physical appearance-focus mindset and found that the manipulation increased men’s tendency to respond violently toward their partner. By implication, objectification appears to play a significant role in facilitating men’s violence in romantic relationships.
Dolichol kinases from yeast, nematode and human can replace each other and exchange their domains creating active chimeric enzymes in yeast
Authors: Ziogiene Danguole , Burdulis Andrius , Timinskas Albertas , Zinkeviciute Ruta , Vasiliunaite Emilija , Norkiene Milda , Gedvilaite Alma
Published: November 2024

Protein glycosylation is a fundamental modification crucial for numerous intra- and extracellular functions in all eukaryotes. The phosphorylated dolichol (Dol-P) is utilized in N-linked protein glycosylation and other glycosylation pathways. Dolichol kinase (DK) plays a key role in catalyzing the phosphorylation of dolichol. The glycosylation patterns in the Kluyveromyces lactis DK mutant revealed that the yeast well tolerated a minor deficiency in Dol-P by adjusting protein glycosylation. Comparative analysis of sequences of DK homologs from different species of eukaryotes, archaea and bacteria and AlphaFold3 structural model studies, allowed us to predict that DK is most likely composed of two structural/functional domains. The activity of predicted K. lactis DK C-terminal domain expressed from the single copy in the chromosome was not sufficient to keep protein glycosylation level necessary for survival of K. lactis. However, the glycosylation level was partially restored by additionally provided and overexpressed N- or C-terminal domain. Moreover, co-expression of the individual N-and C-terminal domains restored the glycosylation of vacuolar carboxypeptidase Y in both K. lactis and Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Despite the differences in length and non-homologous sequences of the N-terminal domains the human and nematode Caenorhabditis elegans DKs successfully complemented DK functions in both yeast species. Additionally, the N-terminal domains of K. lactis and C. elegans DK could functionally substitute for one another, creating active chimeric enzymes. Our results suggest that while the C-terminal domain remains crucial for DK activity, the N-terminal domain may serve not only as a structural domain but also as a possible regulator of DK activity.
Head movements affect skill acquisition for ball trapping in blind football
Authors: Mieda Takumi , Kokubu Masahiro
Published: November 2024

Blind football players use head movements to accurately identify sound location when trapping a ball. Accurate sound localization is likely important for motor learning of ball trapping in blind football. However, whether head movements affect the acquisition of ball-trapping skills remains unclear. Therefore, this study examined the effect of head movements on skill acquisition during ball trapping. Overall, 20 sighted male college students were recruited and assigned to one of the following two groups: the conventional training group, where they were instructed to move leftward and rightward to align their body with the ball’s trajectory, and the head-movement-focused group, where they were instructed to follow the ball with their faces until the ball touched their feet, in addition to the conventional training instructions. Both groups underwent a 2-day training for ball trapping according to the specific instructions. The head-movement-focused group showed a decrease in errors in ball trapping at near distances and with larger downward head rotations in the sagittal plane compared to the conventional training group, indicating that during the skill acquisition training for ball trapping, the sound source can be localized more accurately using larger head rotations toward the ball. These results may help beginner-level players acquire better precision in their movements while playing blind football.
Self-care for preservice and in-service art educators: A matter of survival in the profession
Authors: Hilligoss Audrey M.
Published: November 2024

This article presents an overview of a case study that uses an arts-based research intervention to support the development of self-care strategies for preservice and in-service art teachers towards improved work-life balance. Three recommendations are provided: (1) the necessity for teachers to individualize practices of self-care; (2) creating communities of care to support the collective design and use of self-care practices and (3) defining boundaries that promote a healthier work-life balance. The author shares reflections on how these recommendations influenced her own pedagogy at the university level, preparing preservice art educators and sustaining the practices of in-service art educators. Assignment prompts, exemplars of self-care artist trading cards and juggling act visualization artmaking activities are presented as well as a discussion on how to model self-care practices for art educators.
Redescobrindo o passado e negociando a identidade
Authors: Aver Gabriel Pancera
Published: November 2024

Indicando o movimento separatista “O Sul é o Meu País” (OSMP) como estudo de caso, o presente artigo indaga: como os elementos históricos e culturais presentes no discurso oficial do OSMP são mobilizados no sentido de legitimar a identidade étnica sulista pleiteada pelo movimento? Para tanto, realizou-se uma análise documental e discursiva que, ao operacionalizar os conceitos de identidade e cultura, identificou o caráter relacional, simbólico, temporal e material da identidade sulista, discernindo as formas como antepassados e antecedentes históricos são ressignificados, visando construir uma verdade histórica que valide a noção do ser. De mesmo modo, analisou-se a construção discursiva do sentimento de bairrismo postulado pelo movimento, bem como a construção da noção de superioridade cultural dos sulistas, o que se reverbera em uma dimensão material de exclusão física dos “não sulistas”.
Do vigilantismo duro ao vigilantismo suave na América Latina
Authors: Fuentes Díaz Antonio , Quiroz Loreto , González Zempoalteca José Alberto
Published: November 2024

No Chile e no México existem políticas de vizinhança vigiada -importadas do Norte global- que se inserem em dinâmicas descentralizadas de controle do Estado, que acabam levando a formas duras e suaves de vigilantismo. No entanto, o vigilantismo em que decantam essas políticas apresenta diferenças relevantes entre os dois países, questão que se explica pela diferente configuração de ambos os Estados.
Physicochemical Characteristics of Jelly Candy Cinnamon Powder Koerintji Variation of Red Seaweed Carrageenan Concentration
Authors: Setiawan Erwin , Ujianti Rizky Muliani Dwi , Muflihati Iffah , Affandi Arief Rakhman
Published: November 2024

Jelly candy is a product that has the characteristics of being chewy and varied in texture. Carrageenan, an alternative natural raw material as a gelling agent in jelly candy, is one of the producers of red seaweed carrageenan because it has a very complex composition. Cinnamon contains about 91.88-94.19% cinnamaldehyde as an antioxidant compound. The study aimed to determine the value of the antioxidant activity obtained and the correlation between the cinnamon powder jelly candy Koerintji variety and the addition of red seaweed carrageenan with different concentration variations. The study was conducted using a completely randomized design with two factors. Carrageenan concentrations consist of 3.5% and 5%. The results showed that the concentration of red seaweed carrageenan significantly affected the antioxidant activity value and characteristics of cinnamon jelly candy. The best treatment was obtained at a concentration of 1.5% cinnamon and 5% red seaweed carrageenan with chemical characteristics water content 11.49%, antioxidant activity 50.26%, pH value 4.82%, physical characteristics colour (brightness) 40.72%, texture hardness 2.3%, adhesiveness 3.1%, elasticity 2.76%, colour preference 4.66%, aroma preference, 4.32%, flavour preference 4.66%, elasticity texture preference 4.56%, taste 4.80%, and overall 4.04%.