bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preoperative Platelet-Lymphocyte Ratio (PLR) as a prognostic inflammation biomarker in Asian HIV-infected patients with gastric cancer: a single-center study
Authors: Deng Li , Li Lei , Qiu Yiling , Cao Ye , Lian Shixian , Si Yanhui
Published: May 2023

Background

The serum systemic inflammation biomarkers have been established as predictors of prognosis in gastric cancer (GC) patients, but their prognostic value in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients with GC has not been well studied. This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the prognostic value of preoperative systemic inflammation biomarkers in Asian HIV-infected patients with GC.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 41 HIV-infected GC patients who underwent surgery between January 2015 and December 2021 at the Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center. Preoperative systemic inflammation biomarkers were measured and patients were divided into two groups based on the optimal cut-off value. Overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were measured using the Kaplan–Meier method and the log-rank test. Multivariate analysis of variables was performed using the Cox proportional regression model. As a comparison, 127 GC patients without HIV infection were also recruited.

Results

The median age of the 41 patients included in the study was 59 years, with 39 males and two females. The follow-up period for OS and PFS ranged from 3 to 94 months. The cumulative three-year OS rate was 46.0%, and the cumulative three-year PFS rate was 44%. HIV-infected GC patients had worse clinical outcomes compared to the normal GC population. The optimal cut-off value for preoperative platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR) was 199 in HIV-infected GC patients. Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that a low PLR was an independent predictor of better OS and PFS (OS: HR = 0.038, 95% CI: 0.006–0.258, P < 0.001; PFS: HR = 0.027, 95% CI: 0.004–0.201, P < 0.001). Furthermore, higher preoperative PLR in HIV-infected GC was significantly associated with lower BMI, hemoglobin, albumin, CD4 + T, CD8 + T, and CD3 + T cell counts.

Conclusion

The preoperative PLR is an easily measurable immune biomarker that may provide useful prognostic information in HIV-infected GC patients. Our findings suggest that PLR could be a valuable clinical tool for guiding treatment decisions in this population.
Sex differences in the association between sarcopenia and mild cognitive impairment in the older Korean population
Authors: Lee Hyo-jung , Choi Ju-Young , Hong Dongui , Kim Donghoon , Min Jin-Young , Min Kyoung-Bok
Published: May 2023

Background

A link between sarcopenia and cognitive function has been proposed and is supported by several investigations. Nevertheless, the sex-linked relationship between these two diseases has been scarcely investigated. This cross-sectional study investigated sex differences in the association between sarcopenia and mild cognitive impairment.

Methods

We included all 286 participants aged 60 years or older with MCI who visited the Department of Neurology at Veterans Health Service Medical Center in South Korea from January to December 2021. The diagnosis of MCI was confirmed by two neurologists based on the participants’ neuropsychological test scores. Diagnosis of sarcopenia was based on the algorithm of Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia (AWGS) 2019 including bioelectrical impedance analysis and handgrip strength, and cognitive function was assessed using Seoul Neuropsychological Screening Battery Core (SNSB-C) test.

Results

Among the 286 participants, 171 and 112 were men and women. After adjustment for potential covariates including APOE genotype, in women participants, there were significant associations between diagnosis of sarcopenia and MCI (OR = 4.72, 95%CI [1.39–15.97]), while there was no significant relationship in men participants. In eight subdomains of SNSB-C, we also found that women participants with sarcopenia demonstrated a significant memory decline (OR = 3.21, 95%CI [1.01–10.19]) as compared with the reference women group without sarcopenia after adjusting all covariates mentioned above. No significant association between any SNSB-C subdomain and MCI was demonstrated in men participants.

Conclusions

We demonstrated that there was a different relationship between sarcopenia and MCI by sex and that sarcopenia may affect the cognitive subdomain differently by sex. These results imply that, with regard to cognitive function, maintaining muscle function and muscle mass might be more crucial for women than for men.
A de novo ANK1 mutation in a childhood hereditary spherocytosis: a case report
Authors: Wang Yafeng , Liu Linlin , Liu Dandan , Liu Wei
Published: May 2023

Background

Due to the heterogeneity of the phenotype of Hereditary spherocytosis (HS) patients, some patients may have rare clinical complications such as biliary obstruction and ultra-high bilirubinemia.

Case presentation

A 8-y-old boy presented to the emergency with complaints of anemia for 6 years and worsened abdominal pain and scleral yellowing of the skin for 2 days. Physical examination showed tenderness in the middle and upper abdomen and splenomegaly. Abdominal CT revealed biliary obstruction. Genetic analysis revealed a de novo mutation in the gene ANK1, HS with biliary obstruction was diagnosed. The surgery of bile duct exploration and T-tube drainage, and splenectomy were performed successively. This patient was followed up for 13 months after splenectomy, and his condition was stable.

Conclusion

The diagnosis of HS is not clinically difficult, and once a patient with HS is diagnosed, regular follow-up management and standardized treatment are required. Genetic testing is also needed to screen for other genetic disorders that may co-exist in patients with HS who do not have a good efficacy or who have a long-term chronic onset of jaundice.
Prescribing Z-drugs in Greece: an analysis of the national prescription database from 2018 to 2021
Authors: Siafis Spyridon , Fountoulakis Konstantinos N. , Fragkidis Vasileios , Papazisis Georgios
Published: May 2023

Background

The Z-drugs are indicated for the short-treatment of insomnia, but they are associated with abuse, dependence and side-effects. There are only sparse data about Z-drug prescribing in Greece.

Methods

We analyzed data from the Greek prescription database, considering prescriptions for the available Z-drugs in Greece, i.e., zolpidem and zopiclone, during the period from 01.10.2018 to 01.10.2021 in order to examine the prevalence, monthly number and characteristics of Z-drug prescriptions in Greece.

Results

There were 1,229,842 prescriptions for Z-drugs (zolpidem: 89.7%) during the investigated period from 2018 to 2021, which corresponded to 156,554 patients (73.1% ≥ 65 years, 64.5% female). More than half of the patients (65.8%) had more than one prescription with a median number of 8, interquartile range IQR [3, 17], prescriptions during the three-year study period. Most patients (76.1%) were prescribed by medical specialties other than psychiatrists and neurologists, despite a considerable frequency of psychiatric comorbidities (53.7%). About half of patients with anxiety/depression were not prescribed anxiolytics or antidepressants, a practice more frequently observed among medical specialties other than psychiatrists and neurologists. The average annual prevalence of at least one prescription for Z-drugs in the Greek population during 2019–2020 was approximately 0.9% (higher in females and older adults). The monthly number of prescriptions was relatively stable with a median number of 334.2 IQR [310.4; 351.6] prescriptions per 100,000 persons.

Conclusions

A considerable number of patients are prescribed Z-drugs in Greece, more often older adults, females and patients with psychiatric comorbidities. The prescribing physicians were in the majority (70%) internists and general practitioners, while psychiatrists (10.9%) and neurologists (6.1%) accounted for a smaller proportion. Due to the limitations inherent to medical claims databases, further research is warranted in order to elucidate the potential abuse and misuse of Z-drugs.
Comparing the sociodemographic characteristics of participants and non-participants in the population-based Tromsø Study
Authors: Vo Chi Quynh , Samuelsen Per-Jostein , Sommerseth Hilde Leikny , Wisløff Torbjørn , Wilsgaard Tom , Eggen Anne Elise
Published: May 2023

Background

Differences in the sociodemographic characteristics of participants and non-participants in population-based studies may introduce bias and reduce the generalizability of research findings. This study aimed to compare the sociodemographic characteristics of participants and non-participants of the seventh survey of the Tromsø Study (Tromsø7, 2015–16), a population-based health survey.

Methods

A total of 32,591 individuals were invited to Tromsø7. We compared the sociodemographic characteristics of participants and non-participants by linking the Tromsø7 invitation file to Statistics Norway, and explored the association between these characteristics and participation using logistic regression. Furthermore, we created a geographical socioeconomic status (area SES) index (low-SES, medium-SES, and high-SES area) based on individual educational level, individual income, total household income, and residential ownership status. We then mapped the relationship between area SES and participation in Tromsø7.

Results

Men, people aged 40–49 and 80–89 years, those who were unmarried, widowed, separated/divorced, born outside of Norway, had lower education, had lower income, were residential renters, and lived in a low-SES area had a lower probability of participation in Tromsø7.

Conclusions

Sociodemographic differences in participation must be considered to avoid biased estimates in research based on population-based studies, especially when the relationship between SES and health is being explored. Particular attention should be paid to the recruitment of groups with lower SES to population-based studies.
Range-wide population genomics of common seadragons shows secondary contact over a former barrier and insights on illegal capture
Authors: Stiller Josefin , Wilson Nerida G. , Rouse Greg W.
Published: May 2023

Background

Common seadragons (Phyllopteryx taeniolatus, Syngnathidae) are an emblem of the diverse endemic fauna of Australia’s southern rocky reefs, the newly recognized “Great Southern Reef.” A lack of assessments spanning this global biodiversity hotspot in its entirety is currently hampering an understanding of the factors that have contributed to its diversity. The common seadragon has a wide range across Australia's entire temperate south and includes a geogenetic break over a former land bridge, which has called its status as a single species into question. As a popular aquarium display that sells for high prices, common seadragons are also vulnerable to illegal capture.

Results

Here, we provide range-wide nuclear sequences (986 variable Ultraconserved Elements) for 198 individuals and mitochondrial genomes for 140 individuals to assess species status, identify genetic units and their diversity, and trace the source of two poached individuals. Using published data of the other two seadragon species, we found that lineages of common seadragons have diverged relatively recently (< 0.63 Ma). Within common seadragons, we found pronounced genetic structure, falling into three major groups in the western, central, and eastern parts of the range. While populations across the Bassian Isthmus were divergent, there is also evidence for secondary contact since the passage opened. We found a strong cline of genetic diversity from the range center tapering symmetrically towards the range peripheries. Based on their genetic similarities, the poached individuals were inferred to have originated from around Albany in southwestern Australia.

Conclusions

We conclude that common seadragons constitute a single species with strong geographic structure but coherence through gene flow. The low genetic diversity on the east and west coasts is concerning given that these areas are projected to face fast climate change. Our results suggest that in addition to their life history, geological events and demographic expansions have all played a role in shaping populations in the temperate south. These insights are an important step towards understanding the historical determinants of the diversity of species endemic to the Great Southern Reef.
IGF2BP1 induces neuroblastoma via a druggable feedforward loop with MYCN promoting 17q oncogene expression
Authors: Hagemann Sven , Misiak Danny , Bell Jessica L. , Fuchs Tommy , Lederer Marcell I. , Bley Nadine , Hämmerle Monika , Ghazy Ehab , Sippl Wolfgang , Schulte Johannes H. , Hüttelmaier Stefan
Published: May 2023

Background

Neuroblastoma is the most common solid tumor in infants accounting for approximately 15% of all cancer-related deaths. Over 50% of high-risk neuroblastoma relapse, emphasizing the need of novel drug targets and therapeutic strategies. In neuroblastoma, chromosomal gains at chromosome 17q, including IGF2BP1, and MYCN amplification at chromosome 2p are associated with adverse outcome. Recent, pre-clinical evidence indicates the feasibility of direct and indirect targeting of IGF2BP1 and MYCN in cancer treatment.

Methods

Candidate oncogenes on 17q were identified by profiling the transcriptomic/genomic landscape of 100 human neuroblastoma samples and public gene essentiality data. Molecular mechanisms and gene expression profiles underlying the oncogenic and therapeutic target potential of the 17q oncogene IGF2BP1 and its cross-talk with MYCN were characterized and validated in human neuroblastoma cells, xenografts and PDX as well as novel IGF2BP1/MYCN transgene mouse models.

Results

We reveal a novel, druggable feedforward loop of IGF2BP1 (17q) and MYCN (2p) in high-risk neuroblastoma. This promotes 2p/17q chromosomal gains and unleashes an oncogene storm resulting in fostered expression of 17q oncogenes like BIRC5 (survivin). Conditional, sympatho-adrenal transgene expression of IGF2BP1 induces neuroblastoma at a 100% incidence. IGF2BP1-driven malignancies are reminiscent to human high-risk neuroblastoma, including 2p/17q-syntenic chromosomal gains and upregulation of Mycn, Birc5, as well as key neuroblastoma circuit factors like Phox2b. Co-expression of IGF2BP1/MYCN reduces disease latency and survival probability by fostering oncogene expression. Combined inhibition of IGF2BP1 by BTYNB, MYCN by BRD inhibitors or BIRC5 by YM-155 is beneficial in vitro and, for BTYNB, also.

Conclusion

We reveal a novel, druggable neuroblastoma oncogene circuit settling on strong, transcriptional/post-transcriptional synergy of MYCN and IGF2BP1. MYCN/IGF2BP1 feedforward regulation promotes an oncogene storm harboring high therapeutic potential for combined, targeted inhibition of IGF2BP1, MYCN expression and MYCN/IGF2BP1-effectors like BIRC5.
Clinical characteristics and host immunity responses of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant BA.2 with deletion of ORF7a, ORF7b and ORF8
Authors: Tang Zhizhong , Yu Pei , Guo Qianfang , Chen Mingxiao , Lei Yu , Zhou Lei , Mai Weikang , Chen Lu , Deng Min , Kong Weiya , Niu Chuanying , Xiong Xiaoli , Li Wenrui , Chen Chunbo , Lai Changchun , Wang Qian , Li Baisheng , Ji Tianxing
Published: May 2023

Background

The pathogenicity and virulence of the Omicron strain have weakened significantly pathogenesis of Omicron variants. Accumulating data indicated accessory proteins play crucial roles in host immune evasion and virus pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2. Therefore, the impact of simultaneous deletion of accessory protein ORF7a, ORF7b and ORF8 on the clinical characteristics and specific immunity in Omicron breakthrough infected patients (BIPs) need to be verified.

Methods

Herein, plasma cytokines were identified using a commercial Multi-cytokine detection kit. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and pseudovirus neutralization assays were utilized to determine the titers of SARS-CoV-2 specific binding antibodies and neutralizing antibodies, respectively. In addition, an enzyme-linked immunospot assay was used to quantify SARS-CoV-2 specific T cells and memory B cells.

Results

A local COVID-19 outbreak was caused by the Omicron BA.2 variant, which featured a deletion of 871 base pairs (∆871 BA.2), resulting in the removal of ORF7a, ORF7b, and ORF8. We found that hospitalized patients with ∆871 BA.2 had significantly shorter hospital stays than those with wild-type (WT) BA.2. Plasma cytokine levels in both ∆871 BA.2 and WT BA.2 patients were within the normal range of reference, and there was no notable difference in the titers of SARS-CoV-2 ancestor or Omicron-specific binding IgG antibodies, neutralizing antibody titers, effector T cells, and memory B cells frequencies between ∆871 BA.2 and WT BA.2 infected adult patients. However, antibody titers in ∆871 BA.2 infected adolescents were higher than in adults.

Conclusions

The simultaneous deletion of ORF7a, ORF7b, and ORF8 facilitates the rapid clearance of the BA.2 variant, without impacting cytokine levels or affecting SARS-CoV-2 specific humoral and cellular immunity in Omicron-infected individuals.
Structure of a generalized class of weights satisfy weighted reverse Hölder’s inequality
Authors: Saker S. H. , Zakarya M. , AlNemer Ghada , Rezk H. M.
Published: May 2023

In this paper, we will prove some fundamental properties of the power mean operator $$ \mathcal{M}_{p}g(t)= \biggl( \frac{1}{\Upsilon(t)} \int _{0}^{t} \lambda (s)g^{p} ( s ) \,ds \biggr) ^{1/p},\quad\text{for }t\in \mathbb{I}\subseteq \mathbb{R}_{+}, $$

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and derive the self improving properties of the weighted Muckenhoupt and Gehring classes.
Convergence of linear processes generated by negatively dependent random variables under sub-linear expectations
Authors: Xu Mingzhou , Cheng Kun , Yu Wangke
Published: May 2023

In this paper, we study the complete convergence and complete moment convergence of linear processes generated by negatively dependent random variables under sub-linear expectations. The obtained results complement the ones of Meng, Wang, and Wu (Commun. Stat., Theory Methods 52(9):2931–2945, 2023) in the case of negatively dependent random variables under sub-linear expectations.
Neurofibroma with adenosis in the mammary gland: a case report
Authors: Yamazaki Hirokazu , Koizumi Kei , Watahiki Mana , Takatsuka Daiki , Asano Yuko , Goto Mana , Shiiya Norihiko , Baba Satoshi
Published: May 2023

Background

Neurofibroma of the breast is extremely rare, with only a few reported cases. Here, we report a case of solitary neurofibroma of the breast in a 95-year-old woman.

Case presentation

A 95-year-old woman presented with a palpable mass in the left breast. Mammography revealed a well-defined mass. A 1.6-cm round mass was found in the lower outer quadrant of the left breast on ultrasonography. The internal echo of the tumor was a mixture of relatively uniform hypoechoic areas with posterior enhancement and heterogeneous hyperechoic areas. She underwent a core needle biopsy. The pathological findings revealed a spindle cell lesion with no malignant findings. At 2 months follow-up, repeat breast ultrasonography showed that the mass had enlarged to be 2.7 cm in size. A repeat core needle biopsy, however, revealed no particularly new information. Because the tumor was growing and a definite diagnosis was not made, lumpectomy was performed. We found bland-spindled cells with shredded-carrot collagen bundles. Immunohistochemical antibody markers (S100, SOX10, and CD34) were positive for the spindle cells. Some of the tumors maintained the bilayer nature of luminal cells and myoepithelial cells, which might be the reason for internal heterogeneity on ultrasound. A histological diagnosis of neurofibroma with adenosis was made. At 6 months follow-up, no recurrent lesions were found.

Conclusions

Ultrasound and pathological images revealed an extremely rare case of neurofibroma combined with adenosis. Tumor resection was performed because it was difficult to make a definitive diagnosis using needle biopsy. Even when a benign tumor is suspected, short-term follow-up is necessary, and if an enlargement is observed, early tumor resection is recommended.
A rare presentation of linea alba hernia involving fibrolipoma of the hepatic round ligament: a case report and literature review
Authors: Omameuda Takahiko , Shiozawa Mikio , Miyahara Yuzo , Kitabayashi Hiroyuki , Koizumi Masaru , Kondo Satoru , Kawai Shigeo , Kodama Masaaki
Published: May 2023

Background

Linea alba hernias are relatively rare types of hernias. They manifest as small protrusions situated in the linea alba between the umbilicus and xiphoid cartilage. Usually, hernia contents comprise the pre-peritoneal fat, omentum, and gastrointestinal tract. However, very few cases of linea alba hernias involving the hepatic round ligament have been reported, to date.

Case presentation

An 80-year-old woman presented with upper abdominal pain and a 1-week history of a mass in the upper midline. Abdominal computed tomography revealed adipose tissue protruding from the abdominal wall contiguous with the hepatic round ligament, suggesting a linea alba hernia. During surgery, the hernial sac content was found to be a mass, which was resected. A linea alba hernia defect measuring 20 mm was repaired using a mesh. Histopathological findings revealed that the mass included mature adipocyte proliferation with broad fibrous septa, which was diagnosed as fibrolipoma of the hepatic round ligament.

Conclusions

We report the first case of a linea alba hernia involving fibrolipoma of the hepatic round ligament worldwide and describe the clinical features, diagnosis, and surgical procedure with a literature review.
Paucisymptomatic Tetralogy of Fallot diagnosed in a 56-year-old patient: a case report
Authors: Hakim Kaouthar , Benothman Rihab , Mekki Nouha , Msaad Hela , Ouarda Fatma
Published: May 2023

Background

Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) is the most common cyanotic congenital heart disease. It is generally diagnosed and surgically repaired early in life, with good overall outcomes.

Case presentation

We report the case of a patient incidentally diagnosed with paucisymptomatic TOF at the age of 56 years old, during investigations for carbon monoxide poisoning. The patient had a history of thyroidectomy, arterial hypertension, and four uncomplicated vaginal deliveries.

Conclusions

This case shows us that some patients with TOF can reach older ages without surgical correction. Late surgical repair should be meticulously decided on a case basis.
Use of onsite typhoid IgG/IgM combo test as rapid diagnostic test for typhoid fever
Authors: Mohamed Alaa Aboud , El Monem Ebeid Basel Abd , Abdellatif Radwa Ahmed Rabea , Malak Mariam
Published: May 2023

Background

The incidence of typhoid fever is increasing in Egypt. The Widal test is the evaluation most widely used in Egypt for diagnosis, but it has many drawbacks; therefore, new diagnostic tools are needed. Our aim was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of the onsite typhoid IgG/IgM combo rapid test in diagnosing typhoid fever.

Method

Blood specimens were collected from 90 patients (of all ages) who presented with fever of more than 4 days’ duration. The OnSite Combo test and the Widal test were performed for all patients.

Results

The OnSite Combo test results were positive in approximately 24% of all patients; the Widal test results were positive in 18.9%; and typhoid was diagnosed through blood culture in 32.2%. The OnSite Combo test had 72.4% sensitivity, 98.4% specificity, a positive predictive value of 95.5%, and a negative predictive value of 88.2%. In contrast, the Widal test had 51.7% sensitivity, 69.7% specificity, a positive predictive value of 88.2%, and a negative predictive value of 80.8%.

Conclusions

The onsite combo test was more efficacious than the Widal test in diagnosing typhoid fever.
Risk Estimation of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus in the First Trimester
Authors: Gerszi Dóra , Orosz Gergő , Török Marianna , Szalay Balázs , Karvaly Gellért , Orosz László , Hetthéssy Judit , Vásárhelyi Barna , Török Olga , Horváth Eszter M , Várbíró Szabolcs
Published: May 2023

Context

There is no early, first-trimester risk estimation available to predict later (gestational week 24-28) gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM); however, it would be beneficial to start an early treatment to prevent the development of complications.

Objective

We aimed to identify early, first-trimester prediction markers for GDM.

Methods

The present case–control study is based on the study cohort of a Hungarian biobank containing biological samples and follow-up data from 2545 pregnant women. Oxidative–nitrative stress-related parameters, steroid hormone, and metabolite levels were measured in the serum/plasma samples collected at the end of the first trimester from 55 randomly selected control and 55 women who developed GDM later.

Results

Pregnant women who developed GDM later during the pregnancy were older and had higher body mass index. The following parameters showed higher concentration in their serum/plasma samples: fructosamine, total antioxidant capacity, testosterone, cortisone, 21-deoxycortisol; soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, dihydrotestosterone, cortisol, and 11-deoxycorticosterone levels were lower. Analyzing these variables using a forward stepwise multivariate logistic regression model, we established a GDM prediction model with a specificity of 96.6% and sensitivity of 97.5% (included variables: fructosamine, cortisol, cortisone, 11-deoxycorticosterone, SuPAR).

Conclusion

Based on these measurements, we accurately predict the development of later-onset GDM (24th-28th weeks of pregnancy). Early risk estimation provides the opportunity for targeted prevention and the timely treatment of GDM. Prevention and slowing the progression of GDM result in a lower lifelong metabolic risk for both mother and offspring.
Τα όρια της κρατικής εποπτείας και παρέμβασης στα κοινωνικά δίκτυα
Authors: Κιορτσή Παναγιώτα
Published: May 2023

Στην παρούσα διατριβή διερευνάται η κρατική παρέμβαση στα Μέσα Κοινωνικής Δικτύωσης παρακολουθώντας την εξέλιξή της από την σχεδόν πλήρη απουσία κρατικής παρέμβασης μέχρι την επιλογή διαφόρων μορφών και βαθμών εποπτείας σε αυτούς τους χώρους.Η πορεία της εξέλιξης των υπηρεσιών κοινωνικής δικτύωσης παρουσιάζεται μέσα από την ανάλυση των νομικών θεσμών στην Αμερικανική, Ευρωπαϊκή και Εθνική έννομη τάξη και τα νομικά ζητήματα που ανέκυπταν από την ολοένα αυξανόμενη συμμετοχή των χρηστών σε αυτούς τους χώρους, ξεκινώντας από τα νομοθετήματα που επέτρεψαν την ασυλία τους, μέχρι την αλλαγή του νομοθετικού πλαισίου που επέφερε ο Γενικός Κανονισμός Προστασίας Δεδομένων και η Πράξη για τις ψηφιακές Υπηρεσίες.Εξετάζεται ο ρόλος των παρόχων πρόσβασης και φιλοξενίας περιεχομένου και τα τεχνικά τους χαρακτηριστικά και στη συνέχεια, η ευθύνη των παρόχων υπηρεσιών κοινωνικής δικτύωσης, ειδικά ως προς το περιεχόμενο που δημοσιεύεται από τους χρήστες.Αναλύεται τέλος αφενός ο τρόπος με τον οποίο οι χώροι κοινωνικής δικτύωσης επέδρασαν σε μια σειρά από θεμελιώδη δικαιώματα και αφετέρου η νέα θεσμική διάσταση που αυτά απέκτησαν, εστιάζοντας στην ελευθερία της έκφρασης, στην ισότητα των φύλων και συγκεκριμένα, το ζήτημα της βίας κατά γυναικών όπως εκδηλώνεται σε αυτούς τους χώρους, στην προστασία της παιδικής ηλικίας και στην προστασία των προσωπικών δεδομένων.
Managing personal information flows in a digital educational environment: methodological tools
Authors: Strelkova Irina
Published: May 2023

The scientific and practical manual, which is a methodological toolkit, is intended for professionals - representatives of the scientific, pedagogical and library community — seeking to learn for themselves and teach others to live and work in a digital educational environment; actively form their professional and supra—professional (digital) competencies, including learning how to systematize and apply in practice the growing the volume of information and, accordingly, effectively manage information flows, both personal and organizations (educational institutions, libraries) as a whole.
The definition of the concept of "information flow management" and its main characteristics are given. The functions of specialists in the effective management of information flows are disclosed. Digital tools are presented, the use of which, if librarians and teachers have certain professional and supra-professional competencies, will contribute to the effective implementation of these functions. Rich illustrative material (step-by-step instructions), links (in the form of QR codes) to ready-made examples of the implementation of the proposed digital tools, lists of references on topics can make this scientific and practical manual a desktop book for any representative of the scientific, pedagogical, library community who aims to learn how to manage information flows.
Political Sociology of everyday life
Authors: Ternovaya Lyudmila , Vrazhnova Marina , Ryabova Elena
Published: May 2023

In the monograph, socially and politically significant aspects of everyday life are revealed through the analysis of those meanings of life that are either brought to the fore or hidden in the process of political competition. Elements of everyday life primarily affect representatives of the younger generation in order to involve them in the ranks of political parties and movements. It is demonstrated that many usually overlooked aspects of everyday reality act as propaganda products of political cuisine. At the same time, the most vivid and effective tools for the politicization of mass consciousness remain those that allow you to visualize and mythologize everyday life, breaking out of it with holidays, parades, performances.
It is addressed to specialists in the field of sociology and political science. It may be of interest to historians and cultural scientists. It will attract the attention of a wide range of readers who are eager to find out what lies behind the objects surrounding a person every day and at the same time telling about the specifics of the socio-political structure of different states and historical periods.
¿Qué extinguió al oso caballo en Costa Rica?
Authors: Perdomo Velázquez Héctor , Monroy-Gamboa Alina Gabriela
Published: May 2023

El nombre de esta especie de mamífero nos hace imaginar un alebrije, un oso que a la vez es caballo y que además es un animal que come hormigas. ¿Existe en realidad algo semejante? Debido a su extraña apariencia este mamífero fue objeto de muchas historias que causaron su extinción local.
Role of Micronutrients on the Increased Growth and Yield of Mulberry (Morus alba L.) Plants
Authors: Marin Grace , Blessy Paulraj , Mary Helan , Arivoli Subramanian , Tennyson Samuel
Published: May 2023

Moriculture is a significant factor for better production of silk in the field of sericulture. The present study deals with the influence of micronutrients on the increased growth and yield of the mulberry plants [MR2 (Mildew Resistant Variety 2)]. Field experiments comprising of twelve treatments including a controlsupplemented with desired quantity of micronutrients in single or in combination were analysed to study the morphometric and characteristic parameters of the mulberry plant, viz., plant height, shoot length, number of branches and leaves per plant, leaf area and leaf yield. At 45th and 60th day of pruning, maximum plant height was noted in T9(CuSO4 15Kg/ha + ZnSO4 15Kg/ha + FeSO4 30Kg/ha)and T10(CuSO4 20Kg/ha + ZnSO4 20Kg/ha + FeSO4 40Kg/ha) whichincreased by22.33% and 25.8%,respectively over control; maximum shoot lengthwas recorded in T9which increased by26.32% and 30.86%,respectively over control; maximum number of branches was observed in T9which increased by41.62% and 45.75%,respectively over control; maximum number of leaves was notedin T9 which increasedby 27.9% and 31.42%,respectively over control; maximum leaf area was recorded in T9 which increased by 60.59% and 25.39%,respectively over control; and maximum 100 leaf yield and leaf yield/plant was in T9 which increased by118.91% and 136.74%; and 70.71% and 91.07%,respectively over control. The findings of the present study emphasized that supplementation of micronutrients in general and T9 in particular enhanced the growth and yield of mulberry plants.
Influence of Covid-19 Peak Period on Sericulture Farmers, Reelers, Weavers and Traders.
Authors: Ghonmode Sharyu Vasant
Published: May 2023

India is an ancient country to establish sericulture industry and it manufactures and even exports the tasar cloth (Kosa) to various countries since several centuries prior to the B.C. During the second century B.C., the silk was exported from India to European countries. It has been studied that the production of tasar silk was much more than that of mulberry silk during the Mughal period1.India is unique in producing all four commercial silk varieties viz. Mulberry, Tasar, Eri and Muga. Sericulture is well-established agro-cottage industry and suited to rural-based farmers with a good cost-benefit ratio. It provides employment to six million rural populations. Covid-19 was caused by the novel corona virus and was first identified in Wuhan, China. This disease is transmitted through direct contact with the respiratory droplets of infected person, especially when the person coughs and sneezes. Covid-19 has led to a huge loss of human life, food system, millions of agricultural workers had gone through working poverty, mal nutrition and poor health. The Covid -19 crisis has created a dire impact on the complete world. The Lockdown declared by Government had an awful impact on the financial growth and development of every individual. The sericulture sector has also vouched such condition. The sericulture farmers, reelers, weavers and traders have to face various issues like marketing of cocoons, silk, its products, non availability of vehicles for transportation, non availability of the workers from sericulture sector, problems regarding hard currency flow. During pre Covid-19 period the average selling price of cocoon was 400 Rs/Kg while the price during Covid-19 period was Rs. 200/Kg. This paper helps to study the impact on Covid-19 peak period on the livelihood of sericulture farmers, reelers, weavers and traders. Different activities involved in sericulture were affected by pandemic. Due to difficulty in import and export of silk and other related materials, Government has to be self reliant for the production.
Deep learning network with differentiable dynamic programming for retina OCT surface segmentation
Authors: Xie Hui , Xu Weiyu , Wang Ya Xing , Wu Xiaodong
Published: May 2023

Multiple-surface segmentation in optical coherence tomography (OCT) images is a challenging problem, further complicated by the frequent presence of weak image boundaries. Recently, many deep learning-based methods have been developed for this task and yield remarkable performance. Unfortunately, due to the scarcity of training data in medical imaging, it is challenging for deep learning networks to learn the global structure of the target surfaces, including surface smoothness. To bridge this gap, this study proposes to seamlessly unify a U-Net for feature learning with a constrained differentiable dynamic programming module to achieve end-to-end learning for retina OCT surface segmentation to explicitly enforce surface smoothness. It effectively utilizes the feedback from the downstream model optimization module to guide feature learning, yielding better enforcement of global structures of the target surfaces. Experiments on Duke AMD (age-related macular degeneration) and JHU MS (multiple sclerosis) OCT data sets for retinal layer segmentation demonstrated that the proposed method was able to achieve subvoxel accuracy on both datasets, with the mean absolute surface distance (MASD) errors of 1.88 ± 1.96μm and 2.75 ± 0.94μm, respectively, over all the segmented surfaces.
Functional imaging through scattering medium via fluorescence speckle demixing and localization
Authors: Soldevila F. , Moretti C. , Nöbauer T. , Sarafraz H. , Vaziri A. , Gigan S.
Published: May 2023

Recently, fluorescence-based optical techniques have emerged as a powerful tool to probe information in the mammalian brain. However, tissue heterogeneities prevent clear imaging of deep neuron bodies due to light scattering. While several up-to-date approaches based on ballistic light allow to retrieve information at shallow depths inside the brain, non-invasive localization and functional imaging at depth still remains a challenge. It was recently shown that functional signals from time-varying fluorescent emitters located behind scattering samples could be retrieved by using a matrix factorization algorithm. Here we show that the seemingly information-less, low-contrast fluorescent speckle patterns recovered by the algorithm can be used to locate each individual emitter, even in the presence of background fluorescence. We test our approach by imaging the temporal activity of large groups of fluorescent sources behind different scattering phantoms mimicking biological tissues, and through a brain slice with a thickness of ∼200 µm.
Low crosstalk trapezoid-index thirteen-core single-mode fiber for multi-channel and high-density applications
Authors: Shao Pengshuai , Li Zenghui , Zhao Xuesong , Wang Yan , Li Shuguang , Tan Zhongwei , Liang Yongze , Liang Enwang , Cheng Tonglei , Qin Yu , Shen Yichun , Zhang Zelin
Published: May 2023

Multi-core fiber based on space division multiplexing technology provides a practical solution to achieve multi-channel and high-capacity signal transmission. However, long-distance and error-free transmission remains challenging due to the presence of inter-core crosstalk within the multi-core fiber. Here, we propose and prepare a novel trapezoid-index thirteen-core single-mode fiber to solve the problems that MCF has large inter-core crosstalk and the transmission capacity of single-mode fiber approaches the upper limit. The optical properties of thirteen-core single-mode fiber are measured and characterized by experimental setups. The inter-core crosstalk of the thirteen-core single-mode fiber is less than −62.50 dB/km at 1550 nm. At the same time, each core can transmit signals at a data rate of 10 Gb/s and achieve error-free signal transmission. The prepared optical fiber with a trapezoid-index core provides a new and feasible solution for reducing inter-core crosstalk, which can be loaded into current communication systems and applied in large data centers.
Computational refocusing in phase-resolved confocal
microscopy
Authors: Schnell Martin , King Melanie , Buercklin Sam , Sarriugarte Paulo , Hillenbrand Rainer , Carney P. Scott
Published: May 2023

We demonstrate numerical refocusing in coherent confocal laser scanning microscopy based on synthetic optical holography. This physics-based approach implements a computational propagation on the complex signal recovered in synthetic holography consistent with the wave physics and the parameters of the microscope. An experimental demonstration is shown to restore an in-focus image of a test object from data acquired at several focal plane off-sets. Numerical refocusing can provide focused views on samples with large height variation with a potential application in confocal optical surface profiling.
Standing lending facility in interbank market: Evidence from China
Authors: Guo Tiantao , Wang Yan , Zhang Wanzhu
Published: May 2023

We observe an anomaly that SLF quantity expansion is often accompanied by higher interbank market rates. With the Shibor bid panel, this paper empirically shows that SLF easing encourages bank risk-taking activity, and amplifies bank liquidity demand. The induced demand dominates the liquidity supply effect and leads to higher interbank rates. Moreover, the risk-taking behavior of state-owned banks is more sensitive to SLF than that of non-state-owned banks. These features make SLF a better expectation management tool than a price-based or quantity-based tool for interbank market liquidity management.
Domain-specific transfer learning in the automated scoring of tumor-stroma ratio from histopathological images of colorectal cancer
Authors: Petäinen Liisa , Väyrynen Juha P. , Ruusuvuori Pekka , Pölönen Ilkka , Äyrämö Sami , Kuopio Teijo
Published: May 2023

Tumor-stroma ratio (TSR) is a prognostic factor for many types of solid tumors. In this study, we propose a method for automated estimation of TSR from histopathological images of colorectal cancer. The method is based on convolutional neural networks which were trained to classify colorectal cancer tissue in hematoxylin-eosin stained samples into three classes: stroma, tumor and other. The models were trained using a data set that consists of 1343 whole slide images. Three different training setups were applied with a transfer learning approach using domain-specific data i.e. an external colorectal cancer histopathological data set. The three most accurate models were chosen as a classifier, TSR values were predicted and the results were compared to a visual TSR estimation made by a pathologist. The results suggest that classification accuracy does not improve when domain-specific data are used in the pre-training of the convolutional neural network models in the task at hand. Classification accuracy for stroma, tumor and other reached 96.1% on an independent test set. Among the three classes the best model gained the highest accuracy (99.3%) for class tumor. When TSR was predicted with the best model, the correlation between the predicted values and values estimated by an experienced pathologist was 0.57. Further research is needed to study associations between computationally predicted TSR values and other clinicopathological factors of colorectal cancer and the overall survival of the patients.
Recasting the Villain in the Communitarian American Dream: Obama in Osawatomie and the 2012 Election
Authors: Rowland Robert C.
Published: May 2023

President Barack Obama faced very difficult electoral prospects in the summer of 2011. A slow economic recovery, along with Republican efforts to block his agenda, had undercut his message of hope and change. Obama's speech in Osawatomie, Kansas has been widely recognized as a crucial moment in his successful 2012 campaign. Obama's speech was important not because he supported new policies but because it corrected a major flaw in the community-oriented narrative at the core of his message. Obama reenergized his retelling of the American Dream by shifting the villain in his narrative from partisanship to the greedy rich.
André Gorz und die Verdammnis zur Freiheit
Authors: Häger André
Published: May 2023

Dass der Mensch zur Freiheit verdammt ist, war für den Kapitalismuskritiker André Gorz eine unerschütterliche Gewissheit. Nicht nur der aufsehenerregende Freitod im Jahr 2007 legt darüber Zeugnis ab, sondern auch die sozialpolitische Phantasie, die in seinen Schriften zu erkennen ist. Zudem zeigt sich diese Grundhaltung in den Disputen, die er mit seinem Mentor Jean-Paul Sartre geführt hat, sowie in seiner Auseinandersetzung mit dem Marxismus. André Häger widmet sich in einzelnen Studien dem Leben und Werk von André Gorz und weist u.a. anhand von unveröffentlichten Briefen und Gesprächen nach: Die politischen Eingriffe des französischen Sozialphilosophen sind in einem viel weitgehenderen Maße von existenzialistischen Motiven getragen als bisher angenommen wurde.
Verbergen, Umschließen, Vergraben
Authors: Eckhardt Julia
Published: May 2023

Das Werk der Künstlerin Chohreh Feyzdjou wurde 2001 im Rahmen der Documenta 11 erstmals in einem internationalen Kontext präsentiert. Ihre Arbeit zeichnet sich durch raumgreifende Installationen aus, die eingerollte und geschwärzte Leinwandbilder, Schachteln und in Verschnürungen gebändigte Fragmente umfassen. Julia Eckhardt stellt dem Werk der Künstlerin Strategien des Verbergens, Verschließens und Vergrabens in der Kunst des 20. und 21. Jahrhunderts gegenüber. Erstmalig nimmt sie die hier zugrunde liegende Ästhetik sowie den in den Vordergrund rückenden performativen Akt des Einhüllens über den bildwissenschaftlichen Diskurs hinaus kulturwissenschaftlich in den Blick.
Spaces of Commemoration and Communication
Authors: Sonvilla-Weiss Stefan
Published: May 2023

In times of resurgence of ultra-nationalistic and xenophobic tendencies across Europe, education and awareness-raising for all age groups about the history of the Holocaust are of paramount for agency and civil engagement. Stefan Sonvilla-Weiss examines commemorative culture and its transformation towards interactive and participatory experiences through a novel form of visitor engagement at the Mauthausen memorial visiting center. This unique space from an arts-based and media research project builds on human-centered design and individual and collective experiences of contributing to a living memory culture.
Kekerasan Atas Nama Tuhan (Studi Kasus Kekerasan FPI Yogyakarta)
Authors: Saifuddin Saifuddin
Published: May 2023

Agama yang pada dasarnya berwajah lembut, sejuk, damai, mengandung harapan di tangan sekelompok orang yang mengatasnamakan agama berubah menjadi monster yang menakutkan. Atas nama agama, sekelompok orang dengan menenteng pedang sambil meneriakkan“Allahu Akbar” mengejar orang, memukul, menendang, melukai bahkan hingga membunuh. Kekerasan atas nama apapun termasuk atas nama agama/Tuhan tidak bisa dibenarkan baik dari tinjauan nalar manusia maupun dari ajaran-ajaran agama manapun. Kekerasan atas nama agama/Tuhan justru tidak mempertinggi dan mempermulia kedudukan agama/Tuhan itu sendiri, tetapi justru sebaliknya memberikan citra negatif dan membuat ketakutan, apatis dan tidak simpatik terhadap agama tersebut. Tulisan ini mengulas tentang kekerasan atas nama Tuhan yang dilakukan oleh Front Pembela Islam (FPI) Yogyakarta.
Struktur Ketatanegaraan: Analisis Yuridis atas Dinamika Lembaga-lembaga Negara Pasca Amandemen UUD 1945
Authors: Basuki Udiyo
Published: May 2023

Sepanjang Orde Lama dan Orde Baru, pelaksanaan UUD 1945 sebagai norma peraturan perundangan tertinggi dan acuan praktis bernegara mengalami penyimpangan dan penyelewengan. Pada masa tersebut, membicarakan pembaruan konstitusi adalah hal yang tabu bahkan dicap sebagai tindakan subversif. Kedua rezim ini melakukan indoktrinasi berupa sakralisasi konstitusi dan tidak mengubah konstitusi. Memasuki era reformasi, terhitung sejak tahun 1999 sampai tahun 2002, UUD 1945 justru mengalami empat kali perubahan (amandemen) yang mempengaruhi struktur ketatanegaraan Indonesia. Tulisan ini menganalisisnya dari perspektif yuridis ketatanegaraan.
PERAN POLITIK UMAT ISLAM DI PERANCIS PADA MASA PRESIDEN NICOLAS SARKOZY (2007-2012)
Authors: Marzuki Imam
Published: May 2023

Adapun peran penting yang dilakukan oleh masyarakat Muslim Perancis dalam pemerintahan Sarkozy, antara lain membantu perekonomian Perancis lewat besarnya jumlah imigran yang menjadi buruh dan bekerja di pabrik-pabrik pada dunia industri Perancis. Dalam ranah politik kaum muslim berperan penting dalam mengubah arena politik Prancis dengan menjegal Sarkozy terpilih kembali sebagai presiden dan memenangkan Francois Hollande, calon Presiden Partai Sosialis sebagai Presiden. Sasaran utama pergerakan politik umat Islam di Prancis adalah menuntut pengakuan atau persamaan hak sebagai warga negara, serta di sisi lain pengakuan tersebut memberikan tingkat kepercayaan diri dalam berasimilasi dengan hukum yang berjalan di Perancis, dengan pengertian yang lebih tepat sasaran diatas Laicite hukum yang berjalan dalam diskursus agama dan negara.