bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-speed short-wavelength communications utilizing thin-film lithium niobate
Authors: Assumpcao Daniel , Renaud Dylan , Shams-Ansari Amirhassan , Loncar Marko
Published: January 2025

We demonstrate a low half-wave voltage (0.7 V), high-bandwidth
modulator in thin-film lithium niobate operating at near-infrared
wavelengths (850 nm) and show the ability to transmit 60 GBd signals
with direct electrical driving (400 mVpp). This paves the way for
high-bandwidth, low-power, and compact optical engines for short-range
optical communication.
Boosting plasmon–exciton coupling in gold gratings for C-band pulsed lasers
Authors: Lyu Menglu , Chen Hongmei , Wang Taiyi , Jia Xiansheng , Wei Chaoqun , Liu Boyuan , Zhang Ziyang , Jiang Cheng
Published: January 2025

Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) is attractive for applications in solar cells, photodetectors, and lasers due to its properties of localized electric field enhancement, subwavelength confinement, and overcoming the diffraction limit. GaAs-based heterostructures are well-known for their high electron mobility and excellent light absorption properties, making them widely used in optoelectronic devices. However, they are generally limited to wavelengths below 1.3 μm, which restricts their effectiveness in the C-band. This limitation can be addressed using a noble metal subwavelength grating structure, which allows for effective adjustment of the absorption band by varying the grating periods. In addition, SPR effectively increases the generation of electron-hole pairs in GaAs and promotes light-matter interactions, leading to more efficient light absorption. This study leverages the plasma effect of the grating to extend the absorption band into the C-band, enabling efficient light absorption beyond the inherent limitations of GaAs. The gold grating enhances photocarrier generation at the Au/GaAs interface at 1550 nm wavelength, increasing light absorption by 17% and achieving a modulation depth(MD) of 6.9%. Gratings with an 1100 nm period exhibit excellent saturable absorption in a 1550 nm laser system, resulting in a stable Q-switched laser output with the C-band.
Evolution of high-order laser array locking in high peak power fiber lasers
Authors: Yu Nengwei , Bai Shengchuang , Wang Xiange , Yang Fan , Gao Yixiao , Dai Shixun , Nie Qiuhua , Wen Lei , Wang Rongping , Wang Xunsi
Published: January 2025

Achieving stable output and control of higher-order laser arrays has long been a challenge in the development of a passively Q-switched fiber laser. In this Letter, we reported a notable peak power of 14.9 kW alongside an average output power of 0.91 W in a passively Q-switched fiber laser. Particularly noteworthy is the observed evolution of laser modes into high-order laser arrays, extending to dimensions of up to 7 × 7 with increasing pump power. This advancement in generating high peak power laser arrays in the Q-switched states holds significant promise for applications, including optical communication and nanomicroscopic imaging.
Browning events in Arctic ecosystems: Diverse causes with common consequences
Authors: Phoenix Gareth K. , Bjerke Jarle W. , Björk Robert G. , Blok Daan , Bryn Anders , Callaghan Terry V. , Christiansen Casper T. , Cunliffe Andrew M. , Davidson Scott J. , Epstein Howard E. , Loranty Michael M. , Martin Andrew C. , Myers-Smith Isla H. , Olofsson Johan , Parker Thomas C. , Parmentier Frans-Jan W. , Stordal Frode , Treharne Rachael , Tømmervik Hans , Voigt Carolina
Published: January 2025

Arctic ecosystems are experiencing extreme climatic, biotic and physical disturbance events that can cause substantial loss of plant biomass and productivity, sometimes at scales of >1000 km2. Collectively known as browning events, these are key contributors to the spatial and temporal complexity of Arctic greening and vegetation dynamics. If we are to properly understand the future of Arctic terrestrial ecosystems, their productivity, and their feedbacks to climate, understanding browning events is essential. Here we bring together understanding of browning events in Arctic ecosystems to compare their impacts and rates of recovery, and likely future changes in frequency and distribution. We also seek commonalities in impacts across these contrasting event types. We find that while browning events can cause high levels of plant damage (up to 100% mortality), ecosystems have substantial capacity for recovery, with biomass largely re-established within five years for many events. We also find that despite the substantial loss of leaf area of dominant species, compensatory mechanisms such as increased productivity of undamaged subordinate species lessen the impacts on carbon sequestration. These commonalities hold true for most climatic and biotic events, but less so for physical events such as fire and abrupt permafrost thaw, due to the greater removal of vegetation. Counterintuitively, some events also provide conditions for greater productivity (greening) in the longer-term, particularly where the disturbance exposes ground for plant colonisation. Finally, we find that projected changes in the causes of browning events currently suggest many types of events will become more frequent, with events of tundra fire and abrupt permafrost thaw expected to be the greatest contributors to future browning due to their severe impacts and occurrence in many Arctic regions. Overall, browning events will have increasingly important consequences for ecosystem structure and function, and for feedback to climate.
Case-area targeted interventions and free chlorine residual in household drinking water: An observational cohort study during a cholera outbreak in Northeast Nigeria
Authors: Salem-Bango Lindsay , OKeeffe Jennifer , Desjardins Michael R. , Lantagne Daniele , Altare Chiara , Kaur Gurpreet , Rangaiya Kanaganathan , Obroh Patricia Oke-Oghene , Audu Ahmadu , Solomon Chimda Emmanuel , Heath Thomas , Ihemezue Emmanuel Emeka , Aye Solomon , Lecuyot Baptiste , Sikder Mustafa , Doocy Shannon , Xiao Melody , Spiegel Paul B.
Published: January 2025

Background

Cholera outbreaks are surging worldwide. Growing research supports case-area targeted interventions (CATIs), whereby teams provide a package of interventions to case and neighboring households, as an effective strategy in cholera outbreak control, particularly in humanitarian settings. While research exists on individual CATI interventions, research gaps exist on outcomes of integrated interventions during CATI responses.

Methodology/Principal findings

We conducted a prospective observational cohort study on CATIs during the 2021 cholera outbreak in Northeast Nigeria. During CATI response in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe, research enumerators accompanied CATI teams to households and observed interventions (including provision of soap, Aquatabs, educational materials, and jerrycans; latrine and bedding disinfection; and hygiene promotion) and collected data on demographics, existing household water, sanitation, and hygiene, and household water free chlorine residual (FCR). Enumerators returned to households 10–14 days later to conduct follow-up surveys. We tested differences in reported delivery and receipt of interventions, and household drinking water FCR concentrations before and after CATIs. We also analyzed the associated relationship between CATI and environmental factors and odds of FCR <0.2 mg/L using quasi-Poisson multivariate logistic regression models with generalized estimating equations (GEE). We found household drinking water FCR significantly increased (p<0.001) post-CATI in Adamawa state. Self-reported receipt of Aquatabs and handwashing station availability were significantly associated with reduced odds of FCR <0.2 mg/L at follow-up. Self-reported receipt of hygiene promotion lacked significant associations with FCR in both Adamawa and Borno. These associations varied by type of water source.

Conclusions/Significance

These findings suggest that CATIs improved household drinking water FCR, a key protective measure against cholera, in Northeast Nigeria. Our research highlights factors associated with FCR concentrations <0.2 mg/L post-CATI in Adamawa and Borno, offering valuable insights for response planning, and overall supports the continued use of CATIs in humanitarian settings.
Using machine learning to forecast peak health care service demand in real-time during the 2022–23 winter season: A pilot in England, UK
Authors: Morbey Roger A. , Todkill Dan , Moura Phil , Tollinton Liam , Charlett Andre , Watson Conall , Elliot Alex J.
Published: January 2025

During winter months, there is increased pressure on health care systems in temperature climates due to seasonal increases in respiratory illnesses. Providing real-time short-term forecasts of the demand for health care services helps managers plan their services. During the Winter of 2022–23 we piloted a new forecasting pipeline, using existing surveillance indicators which are sensitive to increases in respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Indicators including telehealth cough calls and emergency department (ED) bronchiolitis attendances, both in children under 5 years. We utilised machine learning techniques to train and select models that would best forecast the timing and intensity of peaks up to 28 days ahead. Forecast uncertainty was modelled usings a novel generalised additive model for location, scale and shape (gamlss) approach which enabled prediction intervals to vary according to the level of the forecast activity. The winter of 2022–23 was atypical because the demand for healthcare services in children was exceptionally high, due to RSV circulating in the community and increased concerns around invasive group A streptococcal (iGAS) infections. However, our short-term forecasts proved to be adaptive forecasting a new higher peak once the increasing demand due to iGAS started. Thus, we have demonstrated the utility of our approach, adding forecasts to existing surveillance systems.
Geospatial and econometric approaches or older driver safety: Analysis of crash injury severity of regional highways
Authors: Xiao Daiquan , Zuo Dajie , Xu Xuecai , Yuan Quan
Published: January 2025

This study tried to focus on the older drivers’ group and explore the impact factors of injury severity involving older drivers from geo-spatial analysis. To reach the goal, a spatial analysis was proposed employing geographic information systems (GIS) with a case study application to two counties in Nevada. First, crash clusters were explored using Density-Based Spatial Clustering of Applications with Noise (DBSCAN) approach to investigate the spatial crash pattern for older drivers, and determine high risk locations of injury severity. Next, Bayesian spatial binary probit model was presented in order to determine the significant impact factors of injury severity involving older drivers. It was found that at-fault driver condition and vehicle condition, not-at-fault vehicle action and road factors were significant factors for injury severity of older drivers. Results revealed that DBSCAN provides a solid option for hotspot identification of injury severity and Bayesian spatial binary probit model addresses the factor determinants spatially. The GIS-based spatial analysis can benefit more reliable older driver-concentrated evaluation and injury severity analysis.
From impact metrics and open science to communicating research: Journalists’ awareness of academic controversies
Authors: Fleerackers Alice , Moorhead Laura L. , Alperin Juan Pablo , Riedlinger Michelle , Maggio Lauren A.
Published: January 2025

This study sheds light on how journalists respond to evolving debates within academia around topics including research integrity, improper use of metrics to measure research quality and impact, and the risks and benefits of the open science movement. It does so through a codebook thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews with 19 health and science journalists from the Global North. We find that journalists’ perceptions of these academic controversies vary widely, with some displaying a highly critical and nuanced understanding and others presenting a more limited awareness. Those with a more in-depth understanding report closely scrutinizing the research they report, carefully vetting the study design, methodology, and analyses. Those with a more limited awareness are more trusting of the peer review system as a quality control system and more willing to rely on researchers when determining what research to report on and how to vet and frame it. While some of these perceptions and practices may support high-quality media coverage of science, others have the potential to compromise journalists’ ability to serve the public interest. Results provide some of the first insights into the nature and potential implications of journalists’ internalization of the logics of science.
Melatonin influence on miRNA expression in sperm, hypothalamus, pre-frontal cortex and cerebellum of Wistar rats
Authors: Ferro Mísia Helena da Silva , Morante Ingrid , Nishino Fernanda Akane , Estevam Camila , do Amaral Fernanda Gaspar , Cipolla-Neto José , Stumpp Taiza
Published: January 2025

Melatonin is a pineal hormone synthesized exclusively at night, in several organisms. Its action on sperm is of particular interest, since they transfer genetic and epigenetic information to the offspring, including microRNAs, configuring a mechanism of paternal epigenetic inheritance. MicroRNAs are known to participate in a wide variety of mechanisms in basically all cells and tissues, including the brain and the sperm cells, which are known, respectively, to present 70% of all identified microRNAs and to transfer these molecules to the embryo. MicroRNAs from sperm have been associated with modulation of embryonic development and inheritance of psychiatric symptoms, including autism. Given that microRNAs and melatonin are ubiquitous molecules with important roles in the organism, the aim of this study was to investigate the expression of specific microRNAs in sperm, brain and cerebellum of pinealectomized rats. For this study, Wistar rats had their pineal gland removed at 60 post-partum. Part of these rats received exogenous melatonin until the day of the euthanasia. The control group did not receive any treatment or manipulation. The sperm, hypothalamus, prefrontal cortex and cerebellum were collected for analysis of microRNA expression by RT-qPCR. The results suggest that melatonin absence caused by pinealectomy increases the expression of the target microRNAs in the sperm. Although the data suggest an alteration (increase or decrease depending on the region and microRNA) of expression levels of some microRNAs in the brain and cerebellum of pinealectomized rats, the differences were not statistically significant. This seems to be a consequence of the intragroup variation. Melatonin administration restored the levels of the target microRNAs in the sperm. Additional studies are needed to understand the impact of the alterations of microRNA expression to the pinealectomized rats as well as to their descendants.
Identification of key regulators in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma using network theoretical approach
Authors: Bhattacharjee Kankana , Ghosh Aryya
Published: January 2025

Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a devastating disease with poor clinical outcomes, which is mainly because of delayed disease detection, resistance to chemotherapy, and lack of specific targeted therapies. The disease’s development involves complex interactions among immunological, genetic, and environmental factors, yet its molecular mechanism remains elusive. A major challenge in understanding PDAC etiology lies in unraveling the genetic profiling that governs the PDAC network. To address this, we examined the gene expression profile of PDAC and compared it with that of healthy controls, identifying differentially expressed genes (DEGs). These DEGs formed the basis for constructing the PDAC protein interaction network, and their network topological properties were calculated. It was found that the PDAC network self-organizes into a scale-free fractal state with weakly hierarchical organization. Newman and Girvan’s algorithm (leading eigenvector (LEV) method) of community detection enumerated four communities leading to at least one motif defined by G (3,3). Our analysis revealed 33 key regulators were predominantly enriched in neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction, Cell adhesion molecules, Leukocyte transendothelial migration pathways; positive regulation of cell proliferation, positive regulation of protein kinase B signaling biological functions; G-protein beta-subunit binding, receptor binding molecular functions etc. Transcription Factor and mi-RNA of the key regulators were obtained. Recognizing the therapeutic potential and biomarker significance of PDAC Key regulators, we also identified approved drugs for specific genes. However, it is imperative to subject Key regulators to experimental validation to establish their efficacy in the context of PDAC.
“I just felt that everything came tumbling down around me”—Barriers in cancer care for patients with severe mental illness: A qualitative study
Authors: Vendelsøe Astrid Næraa Høeg , Stie Mette , Hjorth Peter , Søndergaard Jens , Hansen Dorte Gilså , Jensen Lars Henrik
Published: January 2025

Background

Patients with severe mental illness experience serious inequity when facing cancer treatment. They are less likely to be referred for cancer treatment following recommended guidelines and have poorer cancer survival than patients without mental illness. Relevant specialties such as psychiatry and general practice are rarely involved, and the patient perspective is rarely represented in research in the field. The present study investigated how patients with severe mental illness experience barriers to and facilitators of patient-centred cancer treatment and care.

Methods

In this qualitative case study, field observations, semi-structured interviews, and patient file analysis were performed with five patients with cancer in an adult psychiatric setting, included through purposeful sampling.

Results

Our analysis showed one major theme, “Complexity on many levels”, and four subthemes: “How the mental illness is affected by the cancer trajectory”, “The complexity of patient vulnerability”, “Fragmented healthcare system and lack of structure”, and “The role of the relationship between patient and health professional.” Barriers included the cancer trajectory leading to severe worsening of the mental illness, as well as fragmentation of the healthcare system and a lack of a systematic approach to the patient group. Facilitators included the health professionals acknowledging the patient’s own resources and approaching the patient as a person rather than a disease.

Conclusion

This study highlights critical focal points to improve care for patients with cancer who also struggle with severe mental illness. By addressing these target areas, healthcare providers can better tailor their approach to meet the unique needs of this population.
The evolution of ASEAN’s language policies: A diachronic analysis of official documents and website
Authors: Zhang Chen , Zhao Ronghui , Huang Yan
Published: January 2025

Language policy plays a pivotal role in sustaining language behaviors and transforming language ideologies into practices. While the analysis of language policies in international organizations has received increasing attention, the evolution of language policies in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has been understudied. Existing research on ASEAN’s language policies has concentrated on its official language, often overlooking the language practices and ideologies embedded within these policies. This study seeks to investigate the evolution of ASEAN’s language policy by examining its official documents and website. We employed the Wayback Machine to trace the development of the ASEAN official website and adopted a corpus-based approach, utilizing tools such as AntConc and Sketch Engine, to analyze the Chairman’s Statements of the ASEAN Summit (CSAS). The study reveals three key insights: 1) The evolution of the ASEAN official website can be categorized into three distinct stages. 2) A consistent use of the collective pronoun “we” in the statements highlights the emphasis on cooperation and progress across economic and political-security domains. 3) The ASEAN community has persistently upheld its values, fostering an ASEAN identity and a genuine ASEAN community throughout its development. This diachronic analysis clarifies the characteristics of ASEAN’s language policy, deepening our understanding of the intricate relationship between language practices and ideology, and their implications for regional cooperation and integration.
Genomic characteristics and molecular epidemiology of MRSA from medical centers in Mexico: Results from the Invifar network
Authors: Echaniz-Avilés Gabriela , Núñez-García Luis Ángel , Rodríguez-Noriega Eduardo , Velázquez-Acosta Consuelo , López-Jácome Luis Esaú , López-Gutiérrez Eduardo , Pérez-Vicelis Talia , Torres-Báez Cristina , Garza-Ramos Ulises , Rodríguez-Medina Nadia , Barajas-Magallón Juan Manuel , Vázquez-Larios Rosario , Silva-Gamiño Aldo Rafael , Franco-Cendejas Rafael , Gómez-Quiroz Adolfo , Garza-González Elvira
Published: January 2025

Introduction

The methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) genome varies by geographical location. This study aims to determine the genomic characteristics of MRSA using whole-genome sequencing (WGS) data from medical centers in Mexico and to explore the associations between antimicrobial resistance genes and virulence factors.

Methods

This study included 27 clinical isolates collected from sterile sites at eight centers in Mexico in 2022 and 2023. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed using VITEK 2. In addition, WGS was performed using a NovaSeq platform, and a bioinformatic analysis was conducted using several tools.

Results

In this study, 21 strains were CC5, five were CC8, and one was CC93. Moreover, six strains were identified as ST5(CC5)-MRSA-IIa- t895, four strains were found to be ST1011(CC5)-MRSA-IIa-t895, five strains were found to be ST1011(CC5)-MRSA-IIa-t9364, one strain was found to be ST1011(CC5)-MRSA-IIa-t8116, another was found to be ST1011(CC5)-MRSA-IIa-t62, three were found to be ST8(CC8)-MRSA-IVa-t8, one strain was ST5(CC5)-MRSA-IVa-t2, one strain was as ST93(CC93)-MRSA-IVa-t3949, two strains were ST9003(CC8)-MRSA-IVa-t18492, and three strains were ST9034(CC5)-MRSA-V-t2. All SCCmec IIa strains showed resistance to levofloxacin and ciprofloxacin, and all but two strains were resistant to clindamycin. Among the strains that harbored the type IIa cassette, most had the aadD, blaZ, and ermA_SDS genes and the erm A gene. Multiple genes for adhesion, enzymes, immune evasion, and secretion system were detected, regardless of SCCmec type. Of the SCCmec IVa strains, most harbored the Panton-Valentine leukocidin encoding genes.

Conclusion

In this study, the most frequently detected CC was CC5, followed by CC8, and CC93, and the most frequently detected MRSA ST was ST1011, followed by ST5. Most SCCmec elements were found to be type IIa, followed by type IVa. High MIC values were observed for ciprofloxacin, erythromycin, and clindamycin, particularly within SCCmec IIa. Of the SCCmec IVa strains, most harbored the lukS-PV and lukF-PV genes.
Depression in adolescence and the understanding of health—A phenomenographic study
Authors: Danielsson Klara , Ahlborg Mikael , Mortazavi Rebecca , Jarbin Håkan , Larsson Ingrid
Published: January 2025

Health is multifaceted, with divergent interpretations in diverse cultures and groups of individuals. The ways individuals understand health might aid in developing future interventions. There is scant knowledge on how adolescents with depression conceptualise health. A descriptive qualitative design with a phenomenographic approach was used to describe the different ways adolescents with depression conceptualise health. Interviews were performed with adolescents 13–17 years old (n = 33) who participated in a randomised controlled trial evaluating the effects of aerobic group exercise versus leisure group activities for adolescents with depression. The results were interpreted into four metaphors to embody the understanding of health as described by adolescents with depression: 1) establishing sound routines by managing everyday life, 2) connecting to others by having access to social resources, 3) managing depression symptoms by having control over the mental illness, and 4) attaining inner drive by experiencing joy in everyday life. The various conceptions of health among adolescents with depression provide valuable insights for enhancing evidence-based treatments with person-centred care. Key aspects include establishing routines, fostering connections, finding strategies for symptom control, and incorporating joy through exercise. Given that adolescents highlighted these aspects as essential to health, future research could explore individualised health promotion, particularly focusing on routine-building, social connections, or finding an inner drive as an add-on to evidence-based treatments for adolescent depression.
Genome-wide analysis and characterization of TPD1 family proteins in pearl millet (Cenchrus americanus): Insights into reproductive regulation and phytohormone responses
Authors: Almutairi Zainab M.
Published: January 2025

The Tapetum Determinant 1 (TPD1) family proteins are known to play a crucial role in the regulation of reproduction in plants, including Cenchrus americanus (pearl millet). However, members of TPD1 family proteins have not been fully identified. The current study aims to identify and characterize the TPD1 family proteins in Cenchrus americanus (L.) Morrone. Seven transmembrane proteins (from 127 to 172 aa) comprising TPD1 domain were identified via genome-wide mining. Analysis of gene expression during developmental stages revealed high expression of four CaTPD1s in reproductive organs. Treatment with phytohormones showed that the expression of CaTPD1s was repressed by hormone treatments except CaTPD1_Ch4.1 and CaTPD1_Ch4.3 which are highly expressed in response to brassinolide and auxin, respectively. Screening of cis-elements in the promoter of CaTPD1s revealed various cis-elements related to phytohormone regulation, wound response, abiotic stress defense, and light response. The phylogenetic tree revealed distinct clustering of CaTPD1_Ch6 and CaTPD1_Ch5 among the other CaTPD1s, which revealed close relationships with the orthologs from Arabidopsis and rice that are known to have a critical role in tapetum development and pollen and ovule production. Hence, this study affirms the role of the CaTPD1s genes in the growth and reproduction during pearl millet developmental stages.
The primary mechanism for highly potent inhibition of HIV-1 maturation by lenacapavir
Authors: Huang Szu-Wei , Briganti Lorenzo , Annamalai Arun S. , Greenwood Juliet , Shkriabai Nikoloz , Haney Reed , Armstrong Michael L. , Wempe Michael F. , Singh Satya Prakash , Francis Ashwanth C. , Engelman Alan N. , Kvaratskhelia Mamuka
Published: January 2025

Lenacapavir (LEN) is a highly potent, long-acting antiretroviral medication for treating people infected with muti-drug-resistant HIV-1 phenotypes. The inhibitor targets multifaceted functions of the viral capsid protein (CA) during HIV-1 replication. Previous studies have mainly focused on elucidating LEN’s mode of action during viral ingress. Additionally, the inhibitor has been shown to interfere with mature capsid assembly during viral egress. However, the mechanism for how LEN affects HIV-1 maturation is unknown. Here, we show that pharmacologically relevant LEN concentrations do not impair proteolytic processing of Gag in virions. Instead, we have elucidated the primary mechanism for highly potent inhibition of HIV-1 maturation by sub-stoichiometric LEN:CA ratios. The inhibitor exerts opposing effects on formation of CA pentamers versus hexamers, the key capsomere intermediates in mature capsid assembly. LEN impairs formation of pentamers, whereas it induces assembly of hexameric lattices by imposing an opened CA conformation and stabilizing a dimeric form of CA. Consequently, LEN treatment results in morphologically atypical virus particles containing malformed, hyper-stable CA assemblies, which fail to infect target cells. Moreover, we have uncovered an inverse correlation between inhibitor potency and CA levels in cell culture assays, which accounts for LEN’s ability to potently (with picomolar EC50 values) inhibit HIV-1 maturation at clinically relevant drug concentrations.
SHARED1: Building a network of arts and humanities-based initiatives in mental health and well-being across the globe
Authors: Anisimovich Antonina , Billington Josie , Imperiale Maria Grazia , Asquith Wendy , Snowden-Leak Richard
Published: January 2025

This article reports on the learning from a series of workshops organized by the Seeing Arts Health Research EnacteD (SHARED) project that aimed to establish an international network of researchers, arts and health providers and practitioners. Online workshops were designed to provide a platform for exchange of best practices in arts in health research and to encourage a dialogue between various international arts in health researchers and practitioners from six countries across the globe. This exchange was built on participant contributions (three practice-based presentations for each workshop highlighting alignment with community assets, inclusion and partnerships), followed by reflective group discussions. Results show that arts in health initiatives in different contexts globally often share similar strengths and face common challenges. Participants noted the need for networks such as SHARED, where researchers and practitioners can come together to exchange best practice, collaborate on future initiatives and work out solutions for shared challenges.
Minsk: A guide to the city of my nostalgia
Authors: Launikovich Hanna
Published: January 2025

My hometown, Minsk, is located some 1000 km and decades away from my current place of residence, and this distance is ever growing. I tried to look into the abyss and explore my feelings I cautiously label as ‘nostalgia’, which I define more as a complex longing than a mere desire to return home. To navigate this nostalgia, I engage with artistic works, including Artur Klinaŭ’s book Minsk: A Guide to the City of the Sun and Tania Arcimovich’s multimedia project Belarus 4:33. City of the Sun Point Zero, while incorporating my own, third-generation perspective. Ultimately, it is a journey of collecting and weaving together fragments of transgenerational memory into a cohesive narrative about the place that might have never truly existed.
We begin from the very end: Grief as a sociopolitical autopsy
Authors: Choi Youngsook
Published: January 2025

The article threads the lineage of Youngsook Choi’s performative practice centring on grief. It witnesses the voice of recurring ghosts from the racist hysteria during Covid-19 outbreak, the continuing exploitation of the Global South and persistent anthropocentric violence towards the land and more-than-human others. Suggesting resentful deaths and political spirituality as critical margins of neo-colonial capitalist oppression, this article takes a glimpse of Youngsook’s attempt to activate grief as an intimate site for collective interrogation, community-oriented healing and solidarity building.
Towards a Commonwealth 10-point programme of action for LDCs
Authors: Balchin Neil , Vickers Brendan , Ali Salamat , Zhuawu Collin , Powell Kimonique
Published: January 2025

This Trade Hot Topic has a special focus on the 5th UN Conference on the Least Developed Countries.
Guidelines for Implementation: The Whole System Approach in addressing Violence Against Women and Girls in the Commonwealth
Authors: Secretariat Commonwealth
Published: January 2025

The guidelines for Implementation: The Whole System Approach in Addressing Violence against Women and Girls provides a collaborative framework between Commonwealth member country governments, the Commonwealth Secretariat, Commonwealth Associations, partner organisations, experts on the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and civil society organisations (CSOs).

The aim is to create an easily accessible pathway by means of which Commonwealth member countries can evaluate their current progress, set realistic targets and create a framework to support and enhance gender equality and women’s empowerment within the Commonwealth.
Commonwealth Economic Development Report 2021
Authors: Secretariat Commonwealth
Published: January 2025

Economic recovery from the huge disruption caused by COVID-19 around the world, including in the Commonwealth, is going to be determined by a race between the virus and the vaccine. The pace of vaccine rollout and the resultant decline in the burden of disease can accelerate recovery, even as the spread of new variants can potentially trigger lockdowns, impede economic activity and slow the recovery.
Unlocking Climate Finance Access for Small States and other Vulnerable Commonwealth Countries
Authors: Secretariat Commonwealth
Published: January 2025

The climate finance landscape is complex and challenging. Funds are available to support climate change mitigation and adaptation, but small and vulnerable Commonwealth countries, which often face the most serious impacts of climate
change, have limited capacities and experience significant barriers to accessing these funds.

In 2013 the Commonwealth Expert Group on Climate Finance identified the complex and crowded climate finance landscape as one of the main bottlenecks preventing the scaling up of climate finance for developing member countries. Member countries often face capacity and resource constraints that mean they cannot secure and optimise access to climate funds. Moreover, with an estimated increase in annual climate finance of at least 590 per cent required to meet internationally agreed climate objectives by 2030 and to avoid the most dangerous impacts of climate change, CCFAH is a direct response to the 54-member Commonwealth family’s need for support if we are to overcome these challenges together.
Některé vojenské aspekty aplikace mezinárodního humanitárního práva v prostředí současných ozbrojených konfliktů
Authors: Foltýn Otakar
Published: January 2025

For an understanding of the Law of Armed Conflict development is important a good knowledge about military aspects. The two current very important topics are irregular warfare and the revolution in military technologies. The guerrilla warfare, which is typical for the Fourth generation of modem warfare is based on completely different style of warfare compare to symmetric style of warfare. Another military aspect, creating new questions for LOAC application, are new technologies, especially autonomic weapon systems and digital battlefield. Generally we have to say, that LOAC react to slowly on development of tactics and military technologies.
Fenomén morálního hazardu
Authors: Urban Jan
Published: January 2025

Moral hazard arises in situation when subject is insulated from risk and therefore has a tendency to act less carefully. Moral hazard traditionally occurs in insurance markets, when the behaviour of the insured party changes in a way that raises costs for the insurer. Recently, moral hazard has increased in financial markets due to possibilities of lending institutions to push risk onto investors through loans securitization and use of financial derivatives spreading risks. Moral hazard of so called “too big to fail” lending institutions has a tendency to grow if governments are prepared to bailed them out in case of bad investments. The article treats moral hazard as a form of market failure, outlines its consequences and ways how it can be tackled.
Morální hazard a „Too Big To Fail“. Pohled do historie
Authors: Bažantová Ilona
Published: January 2025

The article analysis problem of moral hazard in historical framework. The article describes on historical connections practical manifestations doctrine “too big to fail”. Attention is devoted bank’s laws and behaviour governments. Article analyses situation in USA during 1929-1935 and program New Deal And situation in Czechoslovakia in 1920’s and 1930’s. The state intervened in bank sanation twice during economic recession in the early 1920’s and 1930’s in Czechoslovakia. Doctrine “too big to fail” financial institutions has a tendency to grow if governments are prepared to bailed them out in case of bad investments.
Fruit consumption: Exploring consumer demand for exotic fruits in India - Trends and preferences
Authors: Vinodh Kannan , Mahendran Kandaswamy , Lavanya Sengodan Moghana
Published: January 2025

Exotic fruits, characterized by their unique flavors, vibrant colors and diverse nutritional profiles, have gained significant popularity in the Indian retail market, reflecting changing consumer preferences and a growing awareness of health benefits. This study explores the fruit consumption, import statistics of fruits and consumer preferences for exotic fruits in Coimbatore city, focusing on demographic characteristics, market availability and the intrinsic and extrinsic attributes influencing purchasing decisions. A survey was conducted to assess the demographic profile of exotic fruit consumers, revealing a predominantly educated and diverse group, with a significant proportion aged 31-45 years. Market analysis identified a wide range of imported fruits, highlighting their price points and seasonal availability. A conjoint analysis was performed to understand the importance of various attributes, including fruit appearance, taste, price and packaging size. Results of the study indicate that vibrant colors and competitive pricing are critical factors in consumer choices, with taste preferences favoring mild sweet and tangy flavors. The study also presents utility values for different product combinations, emphasizing the importance of aligning marketing strategies with consumer preferences. Ultimately, this research contributes to the understanding of consumer behavior regarding exotic fruits and offers practical recommendations for stakeholders in the fruit supply chain.
Influence of naphthalene acetic acid, gibberellic acid and triacontanol on fruit retention, yield and quality of mango (Mangifera indica L.) cv. Banganpalli
Authors: Deepa S , Kishore K , Behera S , Acharya G C
Published: January 2025

A field investigation was carried out on fifteen-year-old mango cv. Banganpalli during 2021-2023 in the coastal region of India at the research farm of ICAR-IIHR-Central Horticultural Experiment Station, Bhubaneswar, Odisha to evaluate the efficacy of some plant growth regulators, namely naphthalene acetic acid (NAA), gibberellic acid (GA3) and triacontanol (TRIA) for improving fruit retention, yield and quality of harvest. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with 10 treatments consisting of NAA (10, 20 and 30 ppm), GA3 (25, 50 and 75 ppm), TRIA (1, 3 and 5 ppm) and water spray as control. Each treatment was replicated thrice with four plants per replication. Treatments were applied on the plant canopy thrice at panicle initiation, pea and marble stages of fruit growth. Observations were recorded on flowering, fruiting, yield and fruit quality indices. Application of triacontanol at 3-5 ppm brought out a significant improvement over control in terms of panicle size, fruit retention and yield. Plants sprayed with 5 ppm triacontanol produced the largest panicle (length: 29.17 cm, width: 18.07 cm) and recorded the maximum value for fruit retention (68.93, 53.38, 39.41, 32.88, 26.54, 20.46 and 16.58% at 15, 30, 45, 60, 75, 90 and 105 days after pea stage, respectively), number of fruits/tree (104.72) and yield (38.95 kg/tree). With respect to fruit quality, GA3 and TRIA exhibited significant influence on fractions of fruit, dry matter and on most of the chemical attributes (TSS, TSS/acid ratio, total sugar, reducing sugar, non-reducing sugar and vitamin C) when applied at the concentration of 50-75 and 3-5 ppm, respectively.
Insights and applications of Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi
Authors: Pandey S , Goswami P , Chandra S
Published: January 2025

In natural ecosystems, rhizospheric soils are teeming with diverse biological organisms that enhance plant growth, nutrient absorption, stress tolerance and disease prevention. Among these organisms, arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi are particularly significant due to their symbiotic relationships with plants. Their application extends beyond natural ecosystems into agricultural and horticultural practices, where they contribute to improved soil health and plant productivity. This review discusses the benefits of incorporating AM fungi into modern agricultural systems to improve nutrient uptake, soil structure and plant resilience. It emphasizes the need for strategies to restore and maximize AM fungi's efficacy, ensuring sustainability and productivity in agriculture, industry and natural ecosystems.
Johan Cruyff: między katalońskim mitem a rzeczywistością
Authors: Kubiaczyk Filip
Published: January 2025

Recenzja: Ramon M. Piqué, El contracte. Cruyff, Carabén, Catalunya, Columna Edición, Barcelona 2024, ss. 264
O ruchu #SeAcabó słów kilka. Uwagi na marginesie książki Irene Zugasti
Authors: Kubiaczyk Filip
Published: January 2025

Recenzja: Irene Zugasti, Se Acabó. La doble victoria de las campeonas del mundo de fútbol, prolog Irene Montero, Editorial Escritos Contextatarios
Sprawozdanie z konferencji naukowej „Templariusze. Historia i dziedzictwo”, Gniezno, 18-19 października 2024 r.
Authors: Sajko Tomasz , Wasilkiewicz Kamil
Published: January 2025

Sprawozdanie z konferencji naukowej „Templariusze. Historia i dziedzictwo”, Gniezno, 18-19 października 2024 r.
Koncepcja monomitu w muzealnictwie narracyjnym
Authors: Eder Mateusz
Published: January 2025

The aim of this article is to discuss the concept of monomyth, conceived by Joseph Campbell and elaborated using a different approach by Christopher Vogler, as well as its applicability in the field of contemporary museology and exhibitions. Specifically, the concept – with its recurring pattern of the Hero’s Journey – is examined in terms of what is known as narrative museology. The author also reflects on the essence of narrative museology as such, as well as analyzes the possibilities for monomyth to be used in creating a museum experience.
Extremizers of the Alexandrov–Fenchel inequality within a new class of convex bodies
Authors: Hug Daniel , Reichert Paul A.
Published: January 2025

Mixed volumes in n-dimensional Euclidean space are functionals of n-tuples consisting of convex bodies K, L, C
1, …, C

n–2. The Alexandrov–Fenchel inequalities are fundamental inequalities between mixed volumes of convex bodies, which cover as very special cases many important inequalities between basic geometric functionals. The problem of characterizing completely the equality cases in the Alexandrov–Fenchel inequality is wide open. Major recent progress was made by Yair Shenfeld and Ramon van Handel [25; 26], in particular they resolved the problem in the cases where K, L are general convex bodies and C
1, …, C

n–2 are polytopes, zonoids or smooth bodies (under some dimensional restriction).

We introduce the class of polyoids, which includes polytopes, zonoids and triangle bodies, and characterize polyoids by using generating measures. Based on this characterization and Shenfeld and van Handel's contribution, we extend their result to a class of convex bodies containing all polyoids and smooth bodies (under some dimensional restriction). Our result is stated in terms of the support of the mixed area measure of the unit ball B

n
and convex bodies C
1, …, C

n–2. A geometric description of this support is provided in the accompanying work [12].
Perturbation theory of asymptotic operators of contact instantons and pseudoholomorphic curves on symplectization
Authors: Kim Taesu , Oh Yong-Geun
Published: January 2025

In this paper, we first derive the covariant tensorial formula for the asymptotic operators of contact instantons w : Σ̇ → Q and of pseudoholomorphic curves u : (Σ̇, j) → (Q × ℝ, J͠) on the symplectization of a contact manifold (Q, λ). The formula is independent of the choice of connection on the nose and exhibits explicit dependence on the compatible pair (λ, J) of a given contact triad (Q, λ, J). Then based on this, we prove that all eigenvalues of the asymptotic operator are simple for a generic choice of compatible CR almost complex structure J for a given contact form λ. This perturbation theory has been missing in the study of pseudoholomorphic curves on symplectization.
Correlation of PM2.5 pollution and daily mortality rate of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases in Northeast China through PM2.5 sources analysis
Authors: Hong Qianqi , Zhao Yang , Wang Jing , Sun Hongyan , Deng Lanxin , Cao Jingjing , Wang Cheng
Published: January 2025

Objective

This study aims to evaluate the relationship between PM2.5 concentration and daily mortality rate from cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases (CCVD) in cold regions of northern China, as well as to identify the primary sources of PM2.5.

Methods

A time series analysis model was used to calculate the exposure-response relationship between PM2.5 and CCVD mortality in Harbin. Positive matrix factorization (PMF) was employed to analyze the sources of PM2.5.

Results

After adjusting for multiple pollutant combinations, the maximum excess risk of cardio-cerebrovascular death on the day of PM2.5 exposure was 0.42% (95% CI: 0.15%-0.70%). Stratification by gender and age revealed that the elderly individuals and men were particularly susceptible to PM2.5 exposure. The source analysis identified seven major pollution sources contributing to PM2.5 in Harbin.

Conclusion

Our findings strengthen the evidence that PM2.5 is an independent risk factor for daily CCVD mortality, identify vulnerable populations that require special attention, and pinpoint the primary sources of PM2.5 in Harbin. These findings provide reference points for effectively reducing the health risks associated with PM2.5 exposure.
Development of a Robot-Based Test Bench for the Destructive Testing of Components
Authors: Reichmann Julia , Hanke Julian , Eymüller Christian , Trauth Anna , Reif Wolfgang , Sause Markus G. R.
Published: January 2025

This paper presents a novel approach for robot-based mechanical testing on the component level using a high degree of flexibility in the superimposition of loads, which allows their application to test various geometries and conditions. To validate our approach, tensile tests were performed using different control modes: position control, force control using a six-axis force/torque sensor, and path control using optical tracking of markers. The last two sensor-guided control modes are used to compensate unwanted force components that may occur in a system with six degrees of freedom. For reference, the same tests were performed on a conventional universal testing machine and were in good agreement. Subsequently, the flexibility of the robot-based test setup is demonstrated by two different component tests; a bicycle frame and a snowboard with high compliance were examined with different load cases. It was demonstrated that in path control mode an improvement in the accuracy of absolute positioning occurs and compensation for any transverse forces is possible. In addition, the path control mode enables the preservation of the initial load vector relative to the surface, even under significant deformation of the component.