bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of clonal hematopoiesis in COVID-19 patients at high risk for adverse clinical outcomes
Authors: Smith Cathy , Burugula Bala B. , Jones Morgan A. , Li Qing , Kitzman Jacob O. , Wong Terrence N.
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Clonal hematopoiesis (CH) describes the aging-associated expansion of mutant hematopoietic cell populations. In various cohorts, CH has been associated with increased morbidity and mortality from non-hematologic diseases such as cardiovascular disease and infections, including COVID-19. Comorbidities placing individuals at risk of complications from these disorders, such as diabetes, also increase in prevalence with age and frequently co-exist with CH. How CH interacts with other aging-associated comorbidities to impact human health remains unknown.

Methods

We assessed the impact of CH on the pre-existing end-organ damage and ultimate clinical outcomes among 242 patients hospitalized with COVID-19 at Michigan Medicine from March to June of 2020. In contrast to most previous studies, these patients skewed older with the majority having multiple comorbidities, which placed them at higher risk for end-organ damage and poor clinical outcomes.

Results

Overall CH was not significantly associated with increased COVID-19 mortality after controlling for other risk factors, although we did note a borderline-significant association specifically for non-DNMT3A CH mutations. In contrast, we observed a significant association between CH and pre-existing chronic kidney disease (CKD), which was strongest for DNMT3A mutant CH.

Conclusions

These data suggest that the clinical impact of CH is influenced by the specific gene(s) mutated and is further modified by other comorbidities and clinical risk factors frequently present in the elderly.
The transcription factor EBF1 non-cell-autonomously regulates cardiac growth and differentiation
Authors: Kim Eugene E. , Shekhar Akshay , Ramachandran Jayalakshmi , Khodadadi-Jamayran Alireza , Liu Fang-Yu , Zhang Jie , Fishman Glenn I.
Published: October 2023

Reciprocal interactions between non-myocytes and cardiomyocytes regulate cardiac growth and differentiation. Here, we report that the transcription factor Ebf1 is highly expressed in non-myocytes and potently regulates heart development. Ebf1-deficient hearts display myocardial hypercellularity and reduced cardiomyocyte size, ventricular conduction system hypoplasia, and conduction system disease. Growth abnormalities in Ebf1 knockout hearts are observed as early as embryonic day 13.5. Transcriptional profiling of Ebf1-deficient embryonic cardiac non-myocytes demonstrates dysregulation of Polycomb repressive complex 2 targets, and ATAC-Seq reveals altered chromatin accessibility near many of these same genes. Gene set enrichment analysis of differentially expressed genes in cardiomyocytes isolated from E13.5 hearts of wild-type and mutant mice reveals significant enrichment of MYC targets and, consistent with this finding, we observe increased abundance of MYC in mutant hearts. EBF1-deficient non-myocytes, but not wild-type non-myocytes, are sufficient to induce excessive accumulation of MYC in co-cultured wild-type cardiomyocytes. Finally, we demonstrate that BMP signaling induces Ebf1 expression in embryonic heart cultures and controls a gene program enriched in EBF1 targets. These data reveal a previously unreported non-cell-autonomous pathway controlling cardiac growth and differentiation.
ELIXIR and Toxicology: a community in development
Authors: Martens Marvin , Stierum Rob , Schymanski Emma L. , Evelo Chris T. , Aalizadeh Reza , Aladjov Hristo , Arturi Kasia , Audouze Karine , Babica Pavel , Berka Karel , Bessems Jos , Blaha Ludek , Bolton Evan E. , Cases Montserrat , Damalas Dimitrios Ε. , Dave Kirtan , Dilger Marco , Exner Thomas , Geerke Daan P. , Grafström Roland , Gray Alasdair , Hancock John M. , Hollert Henner , Jeliazkova Nina , Jennen Danyel , Jourdan Fabien , Kahlem Pascal , Klanova Jana , Kleinjans Jos , Kondic Todor , Kone Boï , Lynch Iseult , Maran Uko , Martinez Cuesta Sergio , Ménager Hervé , Neumann Steffen , Nymark Penny , Oberacher Herbert , Ramirez Noelia , Remy Sylvie , Rocca-Serra Philippe , Salek Reza M. , Sallach Brett , Sansone Susanna-Assunta , Sanz Ferran , Sarimveis Haralambos , Sarntivijai Sirarat , Schulze Tobias , Slobodnik Jaroslav , Spjuth Ola , Tedds Jonathan , Thomaidis Nikolaos , Weber Ralf J.M. , van Westen Gerard J.P. , Wheelock Craig E. , Williams Antony J. , Witters Hilda , Zdrazil Barbara , Županič Anže , Willighagen Egon L.
Published: October 2023

Toxicology has been an active research field for many decades, with academic, industrial and government involvement. Modern omics and computational approaches are changing the field, from merely disease-specific observational models into target-specific predictive models. Traditionally, toxicology has strong links with other fields such as biology, chemistry, pharmacology, and medicine. With the rise of synthetic and new engineered materials, alongside ongoing prioritisation needs in chemical risk assessment for existing chemicals, early predictive evaluations are becoming of utmost importance to both scientific and regulatory purposes. ELIXIR is an intergovernmental organisation that brings together life science resources from across Europe. To coordinate the linkage of various life science efforts around modern predictive toxicology, the establishment of a new ELIXIR Community is seen as instrumental. In the past few years, joint efforts, building on incidental overlap, have been piloted in the context of ELIXIR. For example, the EU-ToxRisk, diXa, HeCaToS, transQST, and the nanotoxicology community have worked with the ELIXIR TeSS, Bioschemas, and Compute Platforms and activities. In 2018, a core group of interested parties wrote a proposal, outlining a sketch of what this new ELIXIR Toxicology Community would look like. A recent workshop (held September 30th to October 1st, 2020) extended this into an ELIXIR Toxicology roadmap and a shortlist of limited investment-high gain collaborations to give body to this new community. This Whitepaper outlines the results of these efforts and defines our vision of the ELIXIR Toxicology Community and how it complements other ELIXIR activities.
Belowground carbon transfer across mycorrhizal networks among trees: Facts, not fantasy
Authors: Klein Tamir , Rog Ido , Livne-Luzon Stav , van der Heijden Marcel G.A. , Körner Christian
Published: October 2023

The mycorrhizal symbiosis between fungi and plants is among the oldest, ubiquitous and most important interactions in terrestrial life on Earth. Carbon (C) transfer across a common mycorrhizal network (CMN) was demonstrated over half a century ago in the lab (Reid and Woods 1969), and later in the field (Simard et al. 1997). Recent years have seen ample progress in this research direction, including evidence for ecological significance of carbon transfer (Klein et al. 2016). Furthermore, specific cases where the architecture of mycorrhizal networks have been mapped (Beiler et al. 2015) and CMN-C transfer from mature trees to seedlings has been demonstrated (Orrego 2018) have suggested that trees in forests are more connected than once thought (Simard 2021). In a recent Perspective, Karst et al. (2023) offered a valuable critical review warning of over-interpretation and positive citation bias in CMN research. It concluded that while there is evidence for C movement among plants, the importance of CMNs remains unclear, as noted by others too (Henriksson et al. 2023). Here we argue that while some of these claims are justified, factual evidence about belowground C transfer across CMNs is solid and accumulating.
The effects of group psychodrama on the ruminative thinking style, dysfunctional attitudes, anxiety and depressive symptoms: a quasi-experimental study
Authors: Yeşil Örnek Bahar , Kırlangıç Şimşek Bircan
Published: October 2023

Aim of the study

The aim of the study where quasi-experimental method was used with the control group through pre-post test design was to investigate the effect of psychodrama on symptoms of ruminative thinking style and dysfunctional attitudes as well as the anxiety and depression.

Subject or material and methods

This study included 16 adults including 8 individuals in the psychodrama and 8 individuals in the control group. A group therapy was conducted with the psychodrama group for 12 sessions during 6 weeks; the control group was observed without any intervention.

Results

The psychodrama group scale scores were significantly lower in end tests in the intragroup analysis; there was not any difference in the control group.

Discussion

With psychodramatic techniques, increasing and maintaining attention; reduce or replace ruminations by concretizing and be able to reprocess death, mourning, uncertain loss and trauma through staging; have the opportunity to experience functional attitudes in the sur-plus reality scene and develop functional beliefs and attitudes may have contributed to our results.

Conclusions

Our results reveal that psychodrama techniques are useful in ruminative thinking and dysfunctional attitudes which play a role in the cognitive aspects of anxiety and depression.
Entropy generation analysis technique for labyrinth seals – Part 2
Authors: Zhang Hehui , Zong Yutong , Li Kang , Zuo Qingsong
Published: October 2023

Entropy generation analysis – the subject of the study described in this two-part feature – is a potential analytical technique that is being developed to provide a useful way of enhancing the functionality of labyrinth seals and perfecting their structure. Compared with conventional techniques, the approach aims to provide a more fundamental analysis of the energy dissipation phenomenon in labyrinth seals and a quantitative description of the amount of energy lost in various flow regions.
The importance of integration of music education with social sciences in elementary school
Authors: Rasimi Adhurim , Zylfiu Bahtije
Published: October 2023

TThis study analyzes the importance of cross-subject (cross-curricular) integration of the music education subject with social sciences in elementary school, from the perspective of primary school teachers. This research is important for the teachers of the relevant fields and aims to improve the cross-subject connection practices of music education and social sciences in schools, and it also aims to raise the awareness of the relevant educational institutions at the municipal and state level. The aspect of cross-curricular integration is very important for the development of students’ competencies. These competencies are related to the very goals of the pre-university education system of Kosovo clearly defined in the new Kosovo Curriculum Framework, as the main document in the hierarchy of official education documents in Kosovo. In order to identify the current situation, in this study a qualitative approach was used and by purposeful sampling different teachers have been chosen who work with grades 3, 4 and 5 (in the second curricular level), because this combination offers a diversity of educational units and greater opportunities for ways of integrating music education with social sciences. To address this topic, we collected research data through a semi-structured interview with a total of 15 primary school teachers which highlight the real situation regarding the importance, applicability and the challenges teachers face during the integration of music education with the subjects representing social sciences.
Bağlama öğretiminde ve icrasında tezene kalıplarının sistematiği ile teknik kavramsal ifade biçimlerinin belirlenmesi
Authors: Benli Yusuf
Published: October 2023

Öz
Bu çalışma, bağlama icrasında ve öğretiminde kullanılan belli başlı tezene kalıplarının; uygulama alanları, icra teknikleri, usul ve tartım açısından tasnifi amacıyla hazırlanmıştır. Tarihsel süreç içerisinde bağlama çalgısının icrasal manada geçirdiği evreler ve tezene icra teknikleri incelenmiştir. Çalışmada konuya dair kaynak taraması, gözlem ve deneyimler ışığında tezene ile çalım tekniğine geçiş ile beraber oluşan pek çok farklı tezene kalıplarının oluşum süreç ve koşulları değerlendirilmiştir. Tezene ile çalım tekniğine geçiş ile berebar oluşan tezene kalıplarının yöresel kavram ve bölge veya şehir isimleri ile ifade edilmesinin icradaki uygulama alanları ve icrasal teknik işlevselliği ile örtüşmediği görülmüştür. Bu tezene kalıpları; uygulama alanları, müziksel teknik icra niteliklerine ve halk müziği usul yapısına göre yeniden değerlendirilerek ana tezene kalıpları, birleşik tezene kalıpları ve karma tezene kalıpları olmak üzere üç sınıfa ayrılmıştır. Temel icra düzeyi, orta icra düzeyi ve ileri icra düzeyine karşılık gelen sınıflara ayrılarak tasnif edilen bu tezene kalıpları kendi içinde de ayrıca birinci aşama, ikinci aşama ve üçüncü aşama şeklinde detaylı bir şekilde tasnife tabi tutularak tablolar halinde gösterilmiştir. Çalışmada, tezeneli bağlama icra tekniğinde kullanılan mevcut isimlendirmeler yerine, müziksel icra özelliklerine göre tezene kalıplarının teknik analizi sonucunda yeni terminolojik isimlendirmeler oluşturulmuştur. Tezene kalıplarının mevcut isimlendirmeleri ile uygulama alanlarının bölgesel çeşitliliği ve farklı tür/formlarda kullanılması arasındaki çelişkiye dikkat çekilerek bu tezene kalıpları alfabetik ve matematiksel veriler kullanılarak kodlanmıştır. Tezene kalıplarının tasnifi, bağlama öğretiminde kolaydan zora doğru aşamalı bir eğitim sürecinin oluşması amacına araçlık edeceği öngörülmüştür. Ayrıca icra tekniğinden yola çıkılarak yapılan tasnifin icrada müziksel terminoloji açısından ortak bir dil birlikteliğinin oluşmasına katkı sunacağı değerlendirmesi yapılmıştır. Sonuç olarak halk müziği usul yapısının tasnifi referans alınarak, bağlamadaki temel icra düzeyi, orta icra düzeyi ve ileri icra düzeyi açısından tezene kalıplarının yeniden tasnif edilmesi ve isimlendirilmesi, ileri icra tezene kalıplarının bir kod sistematiğinin oluşturulması geleceğin bağlama öğretim formasyonuna ve işlevselliğine ışık tutacağı değerlendirmesi yapılmıştır.
Risk factors for blood transfusion and postoperative anaemia following total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Kolin David A. , Sculco Peter K. , Gonzalez Della Valle Alejandro , Rodriguez Jose A. , Ast Michael P. , Chalmers Brian P.
Published: October 2023

Aims

Blood transfusion and postoperative anaemia are complications of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) that are associated with substantial healthcare costs, morbidity, and mortality. There are few data from large datasets on the risk factors for these complications.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the records of TKA patients from a single tertiary care institution from February 2016 to December 2020. There were a total of 14,901 patients in this cohort with a mean age of 67.9 years (SD 9.2), and 5,575 patients (37.4%) were male. Outcomes included perioperative blood transfusion and postoperative anaemia, defined a priori as haemoglobin level < 10 g/dl measured on the first day postoperatively. In order to establish a preoperative haemoglobin cutoff, we investigated a preoperative haemoglobin level that would limit transfusion likelihood to ≤ 1% (13 g/dl) and postoperative anaemia likelihood to 4.1%. Risk factors were assessed through multivariable Poisson regression modelling with robust error variance.

Results

In multivariable analyses, each gram of tranexamic acid reduced transfusion likelihood by 39% (adjusted risk ratio (ARR) 0.61 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.47 to 0.78)). Risk factors associated with an increased risk of transfusion included operating time (ARR 2.07 (95% CI 1.54 to 2.77)) and drain use (ARR 1.73 (95% CI 1.34 to 2.24)).

Conclusion

In this study, we found that increased tranexamic acid dosing, decreased operating time, and decreased drain use may reduce transfusions following TKA. We also established a single preoperative haemoglobin cutoff of 13 g/dl that could help minimize transfusions and reduce postoperative complete blood counts.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(10):1086–1093.
The potential of beneficial microbes to suppress the development of bacterial leaf blight in rice plants caused by Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae
Authors: RAHMA HALIATUR , MARTINIUS MARTINIUS , KHAIRUL UJANG , RAHMI FADHILA
Published: October 2023

Abstract. Rahma H, Martinius, Khairul U, Rahmi F. 2023. The potential of beneficial microbes to suppress the development of bacterial leaf blight in rice plants caused by Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae. Biodiversitas 24: 4209-4217. Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae (Xoo) is caused bacterial leaf blight in rice plants. One technique for controlling the bacterial leaf blight that currently being developed is using beneficial microbes. The purpose of this study was to isolate and identified beneficial microbes that can suppress bacterial leaf blight development in rice plants. In the present study fifteen isolates of beneficial microbes were investigated for their potential as an antagonist against Xoo, the causal agent of bacterial leaf blight of rice plants. Four isolates, namely Act-SK2, Act-Mn2, Act-Hr21, and Act-Pha4, showed the ability to reduce the area under progress curve (AUDPC) values by 51.33, 51.00, 84.00, and 82.33, respectively. The effectiveness of AUDPC suppression ranged between 80%-88%. Two out of four isolates showed potential in reducing the severity of BLB disease by 3.65% (Act-Sk2) and 3.88% (Act-Mn2) as compared to control. The effectiveness of both isolates in reducing disease severity was 86.34% (Act-Sk2) and 85.48% (Act-Mn2). Furthermore, identification based on 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis showed that three isolates, namely Act-Sk2, Act-Hr21, and Act-Pha4, belong to Actinobacteria. Each isolate showed 99.68% similarities with Streptomyces sp. strain KS02 (Acc. No. AB373961, 99.84% with Streptomyces sp. strains Al-Dhabi-119 (Acc. No.MK675528), and 99.64% with Streptomyces griseus strain K 2 (Acc. No. MK811436). Isolate Act-Mn2 showed 100% similarity with Penicillium janthinellum strain CMV006C1 (Acc. No. MK450697). The results of this study indicate that the four microorganisms tested have potential to be developed as biological agents.
Ethnomedicinal knowledge of traditional healers on medicinal plants in Sukoharjo District, Central Java, Indonesia
Authors: FADHILAH RIRIN NUR , KOESDARYANTO NILAM SARIRAMADHANI , PRIBADY THAARIQ RIAN , RESTANTA REISHA AZZAHRA PUTRI , NUGROHO GILANG DWI , YASA AHMAD , SUJARTA PUGUH , SETYAWAN AHMAD DWI
Published: October 2023

Abstract. Fadhilah RN, Koesdaryanto NS, Pribady TR, Restanta RAP, Nugroho GD, Yasa A, Sujarta P, Setyawan AD. 2023. Ethnomedicinal knowledge of traditional healers on medicinal plants in Sukoharjo District, Central Java, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 24: 4223-4234. Indonesia is blessed with the world's largest biological diversity, reflected in the tens of thousands of species of plants that occur in Indonesia. This privilege benefits the community by using it in everyday life, including in the health sector. Medicinal plants have various benefits, such as relieving cough, fever, wounds, and other body system problems. Sukoharjo District, Central Java, Indonesia, is known as a center of traditional herbal medicine (Jamu), and the people in this district have used medicinal plants in the traditional medicine practiced by various healers or shamans. However, this local wisdom has not been documented scientifically. This study aims to collect data on ethnomedicinal knowledge of traditional healers in Sukoharjo and relevant information regarding medicinal plants used by them, including the taste of the plant. The method used in this research was a combination of direct observation, field notes, and in-depth interviews with several traditional healers. The study documented that 75 species of medicinal plants belonged to 41 families dominated by the Zingiberaceae family. Most of the plant parts of the medicinal plants used are the leaf, mostly consumed by boiling, resulting in a bitter taste drink. Common diseases to cure with traditional medicinal plants include coughs, fever, flatulence, diarrhea, diabetes, menstrual pain, flu, toothache, and ulcers. The findings of this study highlight that even though modern medicine is available, people still trust traditional healers and utilize medicinal plants, which are important for preserving ethnomedicinal knowledge in a region.
Molecular determination of the microbial diversity associated with vaginitis and testing their sensitivity to selected antimicrobials
Authors: AL-ZAIDI MASSOOMA HILAL HWAIDI , AL-TAMIMI WIJDAN HUSSAIN , SALEH AFRODET ABD-ALRAZAQ
Published: October 2023

Abstract. Al-Zaidi MHH, Al-Tamimi WH, Saleh AAA. 2023. Molecular determination of the microbial diversity associated with vaginitis and testing their sensitivity to selected antimicrobials. Biodiversitas 24: 4253-4261. Millions of women suffer from bacterial vaginitis is associated with several serious health problems. The present study aimed to investigate the microbial diversity and their sensitivity to different antimicrobial agents. Bacterial isolates were identified by genotyping using the 16S rRNA gene sequencing and BLASTn analysis, while conventional mycological methods identified Candida spp. The disc diffusion method was used to study the antimicrobial susceptibility patterns. The molecular identification showed that Escherichia coli (20.8%) and Staphylococcus haemolyticus (20.8%) were the most frequent species, followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae (16.7%). At the same time, Macrococcus caseolyticus, Streptococcus agalactiae, Staphylococcus aureus, and Bacillus cereus were the least prevalent bacteria (4.16%)—all Candida sp. against the selected antimicrobial agents. Thus, molecular assays are important in monitoring microorganisms associated with vaginitis. Prospective genotyping studies are needed to determine these microbes' resistant genes and understand their mode of action and response to drug therapy.
New records of the diversity of Scleroderma spp. from Papua, Indonesia
Authors: SUFAATI SUPENI , SUHARNO SUHARNO , AGUSTINI VERENA , SUWANNASAI NUTTIKA
Published: October 2023

Abstract. Sufaati S, Suharno, Agustini V, Suwannasai N. 2023. New records of the diversity of Scleroderma spp. from Papua, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 24: 4269-4276. Papuan forest is one of the highest diversity tropical rainforests in the world. However, in some areas it is undergoing in process of land degradation. Reforestation using local plant inoculated with native mycorrhiza may have better results since they will be more adaptable. Mycorrhiza helps in plant nutrient uptake and ameliorates heavy metals in mining areas. Genus Scleroderma is a group of ectomycorrhiza that can be found at early stage of succession. However, to date there has been little study on its taxonomy. This study was conducted to construct the database on the diversity of Scleroderma spp. in Papua, Indonesia. Samples were collected from several areas in the provinces of Papua and West Papua from 2003 to 2022. Morphological characters and its habitat were observed. The results show, that 23 isolates had been documented. Molecular identification using ITS sequences was used to confirm the Scleroderma to the species level. The results found at least 3 species of Scleroderma, namely: Scleroderma suthepense, S. xanthochroum, and S. sinnamariense were identified based on morphological and molecular analysis, while S. citrinum was identified morphologically. This finding provides new data on the distribution of Sclerodermataceae in Papua. The results of this preliminary study are important for selecting native Scleroderma spp. for inoculation programs in degraded land.
Genotype sensitivity and adaptability for fruit yield in red and green okra on environmental change
Authors: ABDILLAH SHAHRIZAL M. , SYUKUR MUHAMAD , SUWARNO WILLY B. , RITONGA ARYA W. , WAHYUDI ANUNG
Published: October 2023

Abstract. Abdillah SM, Syukur M, Suwarno WB, Ritonga AW, Wahyudi A. 2023. Genotype sensitivity and adaptability for fruit yield in red and green okra on environmental change. Biodiversitas 24: 4289-4298. Okra is vegetable plant consumed in immature and beneficial plants of various health. For breeders, this crop had a big chance to develop a high-yield genotype in various conditions. To develop a new variety must be known adaptability and stability in environment tests. This research aimed to evaluate the fruit yield response, sensitivity, and adaptability of okra genotypes in four environment trials. A randomized complete block design with three replications was used in each environment, with ten okra genotypes as the treatment. The AMMI-1, AMMI-2 and GGE biplot was used to illustrate genotype stability and their adaptability. Genotype by environment interaction significantly affected fruit yield, with the environment having a large contribution, with SWR01 being the highest yield. The rate of rainfall and PC1 were explained as 36.98% and 70.17% to the GEI sum of squares, respectively. ‘ZAHIRA’ and ‘GSO03’ showed sensitivities to the rate of rainfall. Genotypes ‘SWR01’ and ‘GSO03’ were the most favorable genotype according to ASV and yield performance across environments The AMMI-1, AMMI-2 and GGE biplot confirmed that both were the most suitable genotype for developing a recent variety of okra in a wide environment.
Simultaneous measurement of polarization rotation angle and ellipticity at the quantum noise limit
Authors: Yang Peng , Xie Boya , Feng Sheng
Published: October 2023

An experiment has been proposed for laser polarization signal measurement, with the rotation angle and ellipticity being measured simultaneously. The proposed experiment is immune to signal-to-noise ratio degradation due to the finite extinction ratio of polarizing elements used to construct the composite polarization measurement setup. Noise analysis is carried out to show that the proposed scheme allows one to reach the quantum noise limit in the simultaneous measurement of the polarization angle and ellipticity. This work should be of great interest for experiments such as observation of vacuum magnetic birefringence, spin-orbital interaction, material characterization, polarization microscopy, or biomedical optics.
Bandpass filter and frequency–time mapping method for pulse measurement with optical delay
Authors: Zhang Shenda , Yang Yan , Luan Shenshen , Tian Yumo , Xie Shuguo , Wang Yichen
Published: October 2023

The pulse signal’s transients and low duty cycle characteristics lead to excessive omission and erroneous amplitude measurement in signal capture. We offer a combined microwave photonics frequency–time mapping and optical delay electrical pulse measurement system. Beneficial from the true delay of a long fiber with several paths, the pulse is extended to have a more significant duty cycle so as to boost the capturing possibility. We adopt the bandpass filter to avoid sampling the low-frequency range, prevent phase noise from affecting the signal measurement, and improve the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). This solves the phase noise issue induced by multiple optical delay paths. The proof-of-concept experiments conduct that a 25 μs pulse with a 50 μs period is stretched to a continuous wave, and the SNR is improved by 7 dB.
Vision-based detection and quantification of maternal sleeping position in the third trimester of pregnancy in the home setting–Building the dataset and model
Authors: Kember Allan J. , Selvarajan Rahavi , Park Emma , Huang Henry , Zia Hafsa , Rahman Farhan , Akbarian Sina , Taati Babak , Hobson Sebastian R. , Dolatabadi Elham
Published: October 2023

In 2021, the National Guideline Alliance for the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists reviewed the body of evidence, including two meta-analyses, implicating supine sleeping position as a risk factor for growth restriction and stillbirth. While they concluded that pregnant people should be advised to avoid going to sleep on their back after 28 weeks’ gestation, their main critique of the evidence was that, to date, all studies were retrospective and sleeping position was not objectively measured. As such, the Alliance noted that it would not be possible to prospectively study the associations between sleeping position and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Our aim was to demonstrate the feasibility of building a vision-based model for automated and accurate detection and quantification of sleeping position throughout the third trimester–a model with the eventual goal to be developed further and used by researchers as a tool to enable them to either confirm or disprove the aforementioned associations. We completed a Canada-wide, cross-sectional study in 24 participants in the third trimester. Infrared videos of eleven simulated sleeping positions unique to pregnancy and a sitting position both with and without bed sheets covering the body were prospectively collected. We extracted 152,618 images from 48 videos, semi-randomly down-sampled and annotated 5,970 of them, and fed them into a deep learning algorithm, which trained and validated six models via six-fold cross-validation. The performance of the models was evaluated using an unseen testing set. The models detected the twelve positions, with and without bed sheets covering the body, achieving an average precision of 0.72 and 0.83, respectively, and an average recall (“sensitivity”) of 0.67 and 0.76, respectively. For the supine class with and without bed sheets covering the body, the models achieved an average precision of 0.61 and 0.75, respectively, and an average recall of 0.74 and 0.81, respectively.
Analytical validation of GenoPharm a clinical genotyping open array panel of 46 pharmacogenes inclusive of variants unique to people of African ancestry
Authors: Kanji Comfort Ropafadzo , Mbavha Bianza Tinotenda , Masimirembwa Collen , Thelingwani Roslyn Stella
Published: October 2023

Pharmacogenomic testing may be used to improve treatment outcomes and reduce the frequency of adverse drug reactions (ADRs). Population specific, targeted pharmacogenetics (PGx) panel-based testing methods enable sensitive, accurate and economical implementation of precision medicine. We evaluated the analytical performance of the GenoPharm® custom open array platform which evaluates 120 SNPs across 46 pharmacogenes. Using commercially available reference samples (Coriell Biorepository) and in-house extracted DNA, we assessed accuracy, precision, and linearity of GenoPharm®. We then used GenoPharm® on 218 samples from two Southern African black populations and determined allele and genotype frequencies for selected actionable variants. Across all assays, the GenoPharm® panel demonstrated 99.5% concordance with the Coriell reference samples, with 98.9% reproducibility. We observed high frequencies of key genetic variants in people of African ancestry: CYP2B6*6 (0.35), CYP2C9*8, *11 (0.13, 0.03), CYP2D6*17 (0.21) and *29 (0.11). GenoPharm® open array is therefore an accurate, reproducible and sensitive test that can be used for clinical pharmacogenetic testing and is inclusive of variants specific to the people of African ancestry.
Shifting partisan public opinion towards Community Choice Aggregation through outreach and awareness
Authors: Wu Victor Y. , Howarth Richard
Published: October 2023

Community Choice Aggregation (CCA) is a rapidly expanding electricity supply model in the United States. By enabling local governments to obtain electricity for their residents, CCAs have the potential to increase the use of renewable energy while lowering costs. Recent studies have focused on how CCAs will impact renewable energy markets, since at least five more states are currently considering CCA-enabling legislation. However, little research has been done on partisan attitudes towards CCAs or how to shift public opinion to support the continued expansion of CCAs. We use a nationally representative survey experiment of 1,862 respondents to evaluate outreach and awareness campaigns by nonprofit and government organizations seeking to expand CCAs. We find that most Americans are currently unfamiliar with CCAs, but exposing them to educational outreach information increases their support for CCAs at the state, local, and personal levels. Furthermore, this information is equally effective at increasing support among both Democrats and Republicans, despite partisan polarization on renewable energy. However, this information did not significantly affect respondents’ price sensitivity with regard to CCAs. Our results suggest that outreach and awareness campaigns can be effective at increasing support for CCA among both Democrats and Republicans.
Polystyrene-colonizing bacteria are enriched for long-chain alkane degradation pathways
Authors: Hsueh Shu Wei , Jian You-Hua , Fugmann Sebastian D. , Yang Shu Yuan
Published: October 2023

One of the most promising strategies for the management of plastic waste is microbial biodegradation, but efficient degraders for many types of plastics are still lacking, including those for polystyrene (PS). Genomics has emerged as a powerful tool for mining environmental microbes that may have the ability to degrade different types of plastics. In this study, we use 16S rRNA sequencing to analyze the microbiomes for multiple PS samples collected from sites with different vegetation in Taiwan to reveal potential common properties between species that exhibit growth advantages on PS surfaces. Phylum enrichment analysis identified Cyanobacteria and Deinococcus-Thermus as being the most over-represented groups on PS, and both phyla include species known to reside in extreme environments and could encode unique enzymes that grant them properties suitable for colonization on PS surfaces. Investigation of functional enrichment using reference genomes of PS-enriched species highlighted carbon metabolic pathways, especially those related to hydrocarbon degradation. This is corroborated by the finding that genes encoding long-chain alkane hydroxylases such as AlmA are more prevalent in the genomes of PS-associated bacteria. Our analyses illustrate how plastic in the environment support the colonization by different microbes compared to surrounding soil. In addition, our results point to the possibility that alkane hydroxylases could confer growth advantages of microbes on PS.
Cost-benefit analysis of alternative tax policies on sugar-sweetened beverages in Mexico
Authors: Salgado Hernandez Juan Carlos , Ng Shu Wen , Stearns Sally C. , Trogdon Justin G.
Published: October 2023

In 2014, Mexico implemented a tax on sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB) equivalent to one Mexican peso (MP) per liter to address the high obesity prevalence. This tax has effectively reduced SSB purchases and yielded healthcare savings; however, it remains unknown whether SSB taxes lead to net benefits at the societal level in Mexico. Moreover, public health experts recommend increasing the tax. The objective of this study is to estimate the net benefits of SSB taxes compared to a scenario of no tax in urban Mexico. Taxes include the one-MP tax and alternative higher taxes (two and three MP per SSB liter). Thus, we conducted a cost-benefit analysis from the perspective of the government, producers, and consumers for a simulated closed cohort of adults in a life-table model. We defined net benefits as the difference between economic benefits (the value of statistical life, healthcare savings, and tax revenue) and costs (consumer surplus and profit losses). We found that, at the societal level, all simulated taxes will eventually generate benefits that surpass costs within ten years. Overall net benefits can reach USD 7.1 billion and 15.3 billion for the one-MP and the three-MP tax, respectively. Hence, these benefits increased at a declining rate compared to taxes. The government and consumers will experience overall positive net benefits among society’s members. Policymakers should consider time horizons and tradeoffs between health gains and economic outcomes across different society members.
Integrating gene expression data into a genome-scale metabolic model to identify reprogramming during adaptive evolution
Authors: Yazdanpanah Shaghayegh , Motamedian Ehsan , Shojaosadati Seyed Abbas
Published: October 2023

The development of a method for identifying latent reprogramming in gene expression data resulting from adaptive laboratory evolution (ALE) in response to genetic or environmental perturbations has been a challenge. In this study, a method called Metabolic Reprogramming Identifier (MRI), based on the integration of expression data to a genome-scale metabolic model has been developed. To identify key genes playing the main role in reprogramming, a MILP problem is presented and maximization of an adaptation score as a criterion indicating a pattern of using metabolism with maximum utilization of gene expression resources is defined as an objective function. Then, genes with complete expression usage and significant expression differences between wild-type and evolved strains were selected as key genes for reprogramming. This score is also applied to evaluate the compatibility of expression patterns with maximal use of key genes. The method was implemented to investigate the reprogramming of Escherichia coli during adaptive evolution caused by changing carbon sources. cyoC and cydB responsible for establishing proton gradient across the inner membrane were identified to be vital in the E. coli reprogramming when switching from glucose to lactate. These results indicate the importance of the inner membrane in reprogramming of E. coli to adapt to the new environment. The method predicts no reprogramming occurs during the evolution for growth on glycerol.
Resistance to whitefly mediated by the Mi gene, acylsugars, and zingiberene in tomato
Authors: Oliveira Celso Mattes de , Maluf Wilson Roberto , Andrade Thiago Matos , Menino Gisele Cristina de Oliveira , Azevedo Alcinei Místico
Published: October 2023

This study aimed to quantify and compare the effects of Mi gene, high leaf levels of acylsugars (AA), and zingiberene (ZGB) individually and in combination, regarding resistance of tomato lines to Bemisia argentifolii. The experiment included 21 genotypes selected simultaneously for high AA and ZGB content, cloned through rooting of axillary shoots with homogeneous sizes, and seven control lines produced from seeds, including 2 genotypes rich in AA (TOM-687 and TOM-688), two genotypes rich in ZGB (TOM-703 and TOM-704), and three lines with low levels of allelochemicals (cv. Santa Clara, TOM-584, and TOM-684), where the TOM-684 line carried the Mi gene. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse using a randomized complete block design, comprising 28 treatments with 4 replications and 1 plant per plot. The AA and ZGB-rich lines showed higher resistance compared to the other control lines with low levels of allelochemicals, but the TOM-684 control line carrying the Mi gene was more resistant than the non-carriers ('Santa Clara' and TOM-584). The level of resistance conferred by ZGB was similar to that presented by AA. Both ZGB and AA provided higher levels of resistance compared to the Mi gene. The clones selected for both ZGB and AA simultaneously exhibited lower numbers of eggs and nymphs compared to the susceptible controls and were more resistant than the TOM-684 treatment. Overall, the clones even outperformed the lines rich in only one of the allelochemicals, demonstrating a synergistic effect between AA and ZGB for resistance when combined in the same tomato line.
A Predictive Model to Identify the Effects of Transcutaneous Sacral Nerve Stimulation With Pelvic Floor Exercises in Fecal Incontinence After Surgery for Anorectal Malformation
Authors: Shen Zhe-Ying , Zhang Yao , Tao Chun-Hong , Wang Da-Jia , Zhang Zhi-Bo , Zhang Shu-Cheng
Published: October 2023

INTRODUCTION:

Although the combination of transcutaneous sacral nerve stimulation (tSNS) and pelvic floor exercises (PFEs) has shown significant effectiveness in treating fecal incontinence (FI) after surgery for congenital anorectal malformation (CARM), not all patients achieve satisfactory continence. Therefore, identifying which individuals will benefit from this method is crucial.

METHODS:

A prospective cohort study enrolled 92 children with FI. All patients underwent tSNS with PFE treatment, and an improved outcome was defined as a Wexner score ≤4. A predictive model to identify the effects of tSNS with PFEs in FI was developed based on the analysis of magnetic resonance imaging and high-resolution anorectal manometry with area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve to evaluate the predictive value of external anal sphincter (EAS) thickness index and anal squeezing pressure (ASP).

RESULTS:

tSNS with PFEs improved outcomes in 72 patients and led to poor outcomes in 20 (4 had their rectums deviate from the puborectalis muscle center or puborectal muscle ruptures while 16 lacked EAS with a lower ASP). The areas under the receiver-operating characteristic curve for EAS thickness index and ASP in predicting the effects of tSNS with PFEs were 0.915 (95% confidence interval 0.846–0.983,P= 0.000) and 0.886 (95% confidence interval 0.819–0.952,P= 0.000), respectively. By applying cutoff values of 0.076 for EAS thickness index and 21.95 mm Hg for ASP, tSNS with PFEs was found to be ineffective.

DISCUSSION:

tSNS with PFEs is effective for most patients with FI after CARM surgery, except when the rectum deviates from the puborectal muscle center, puborectal muscle rupture occurs, or EAS is absent with a low ASP.
The Impact of Patients' Primary Language on Inpatient Gastrointestinal Bleeding Outcomes
Authors: Youssef Michael , Rubens Muni , Sedarous Mary , Babajide Oyedotun , Adekunle Deborah , Mahmud Muftah , Roque Maria Vazquez , Okafor Philip N.
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND:

The impact of English proficiency on gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) outcomes remains unclear. In this analysis, we compare inpatient GIB outcomes between patients with English as their primary language (EPL) and those with a primary language other than English (PLOE).

METHODS:

Using the 2019 State Inpatient Databases for New Jersey, Maryland, and Michigan, we created an analysis cohort of GIB hospitalizations using International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision codes. Patients were stratified by primary language (EPL vs PLOE) and type of bleeding (variceal upper GI bleeding [VUGIB], nonvariceal upper GI bleeding [NVUGIB], and lower GI bleeding (LGIB)]. Regression analyses were used to compare mortality, 30-day readmissions, and length of stay. Adjusted odds ratios (aORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were reported. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS:

In the cohort, 5.5%–10% of the patients spoke a primary language other than English. Endoscopy utilization was lower among patients with PLOE vs EPL for NVUGIB (17.2% vs 21.2%, P < 0.001) and LGIB (26.3% vs 29.2%, P = 0.027). Patients with PLOE had higher odds of dying of VUGIB (aOR 1.45, 95% CI 1.16–2.48) and LGIB (aOR 1.71, 95% CI 1.22–2.12). Patients with PLOE were also more likely to be readmitted after NVUGIB (aOR 1.75, 95% CI 1.64–1.81). However, after controlling for the percentage of patients with PLOE discharged from each hospital, the disparities in mortality and readmissions were no longer detected.

DISCUSSION:

Disparities exist in GIB outcomes among patients with PLOE, but these gaps narrow at hospitals with higher percentages of patients with PLOE. Cultural and linguistic competence may improve outcomes in this vulnerable group.
Foreword
Authors: Ashta Ananya
Published: October 2023

This is the Foreword to Issue 2 of the UCL Journal of Economics, October 2023 Issue
Improving the Participation Rates of Freelance Laborers in Voluntary Social Insurance Programs in Thai Nguyen, Vietnam
Authors: Bui Luong , Nguyen Dung , Dinh Linh
Published: October 2023

Objective: In this paper, we evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed strategies for increasing par- ticipation rates of freelance laborers in voluntary social insurance (VSI) programs in Thai Nguyen, Vietnam. Methods: We surveyed a sample of 400 persons and analyzed the data using SPSS 20 software. Both exploratory factor analysis and multiple regression analysis were employed to analyze the level and nature of the relationships among the variables. Results: The intention of laborers to participate in VSI in the rural regions of Thai Nguyen province was influenced by 5 factors – information, trust, attitude, risk perceptions, and knowledge. Nonetheless, the extent of impact varied across the distinct factors. Conclusions: To enhance participation rates in social insurance, it is imperative for policymakers and other relevant stakeholders to engage in information dissemination through a diverse array of channels, such as clubs, individuals, and local organizations. This strategy will serve to ensure that individuals possess a heightened comprehension of the tangible advantages associated with participation in social insurance programs.
A Systematic Guide for Conducting Thematic Analysis in Qualitative Tourism Research
Authors: FUCHS Kevin
Published: October 2023

Thematic analysis is a widely used method for analyzing qualitative data in social sciences research. This research article provides a step-by-step guide on conducting thematic analysis manually, emphasizing the importance of understanding the process for researchers seeking a deeper grasp of the nuances involved. The article highlights the key steps, including familiarizing oneself with the data, generating initial codes, searching for themes, reviewing and refining them, defining and naming the themes, and producing a final report. Through iterative reading, note-taking, and coding techniques, researchers can delve deep into the data, capture meaningful details, and uncover rich insights. Thematic analysis offers a valuable avenue for developing theoretical understanding, generating nuanced interpretations, and contributing to knowledge advancement in tourism research. The article also discusses the relevance and adaptability of thematic analysis in various qualitative research designs and methodologies. By prioritizing transparency, rigor, and a manual coding approach, researchers can ensure the validity and reliability of their thematic analysis, leading to robust and insightful findings.
The Impact of Socioeconomic and Travel-Related Aspects on the Allocation of Expenditures by Tourists Traveling to Taiwan
Authors: PHAN Kieu-Thi , CHEN Sheng-Hung , LEE Jie-Min , PHAM Ca-Van
Published: October 2023

This paper analyzes the spending patterns of foreign tourists visiting Taiwan in 2019. Then, the study examines the impact of socioeconomic and travel-related factors on tourists' allocation of expenditures for five essential trip products. By comparing the behaviors of tourists from different nations, the study investigates their priorities for travel expenses such as food, accommodation, transportation, and shopping. The study's OLS regression results show that distance, visit times, travel modes, duration of stays, number of visitors, gender, income, age, and education significantly affect tourists' travel expenditures in Taiwan. The findings reveal that longer-haul tourists spend more on travel products due to their experience. In addition, tourists traveling with companions spend more than those traveling alone, and males spend more on accommodation while females prefer shopping. The study also highlights the positive impact of the number of nights spent on the purchase level of travel goods and services. These insights provide valuable information on the travel-related variables that influence international tourists' spending behavior in Taiwan.