bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tunable nanolaser based on quasi-BIC in a slanted resonant waveguide grating
Authors: Wang Kangni , Gu Tiancheng , Bykov Dmitry A. , Zhang Xin , Qian Linyong
Published: July 2023

Nanolasers based on quasi-bound states in the continuum (quasi-BIC) have attracted much attention owing to their unique optical properties providing strong light–matter interaction. Although various quasi-BIC lasers have been designed, so far, few efforts have been devoted to their tunability in wavelength. Here we propose an approach to employ quasi-BIC and guided mode in a slanted resonant waveguide grating. The proposed structure supports a specially designed eigenmode localized both in the grating and in the 4-dimethylamino-N-methyl-4-stilbazolium tosylate (DAST) layer, which allows it to obtain lasing emission as well as the ability to tune the wavelength. Numerical simulation results show that the threshold is approximately 7.75 μJ/cm2 with the tuning range being 28 nm. In addition, we show that the distribution of the lasing intensity between the transmission and reflection directions can be controlled by changing the parameters of the structure. This work shows good potential of combining quasi-BIC with guided mode to design tunable nanolaser.
Determinants of COVID-19 vaccine readiness and hesitancy among adults in sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Abubakari Sulemana Watara , Workneh Firehiwot , Asante Kwaku Poku , Hemler Elena C. , Madzorera Isabel , Wang Dongqing , Ismail Abbas , Assefa Nega , Azemraw Temesgen , Lankoande Bruno , Nuhu Abdul Razak , Chukwu Angela , Mapendo Frank , Millogo Ourohiré , Olufemi Adedokun A. , Okpara Daniel , Boudo Valentin , Mwanyika-Sando Mary , Berhane Yemane , Baernighausen Till , Oduola Ayoade , Vuai Said , Sie Ali , Soura Abdramane , Killewo Japhet , Tajudeen Raji , Fawzi Wafaie W. , Smith Emily R.
Published: July 2023

There is very limited data on the extent and determinants of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among adults living in sub-Saharan Africa since the global roll-out of vaccines began in 2021. This multi-country survey sought to investigate COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and other predictors of readiness to get vaccinated. We conducted surveys among adults residing in nine urban and rural areas in Burkina Faso, Ethiopia, Ghana, Nigeria, and Tanzania in late 2021. Log binomial regression models were used to identify prevalence and factors associated with vaccine hesitancy and beliefs around COVID-19 misinformation. We completed a total of 2,833 interviews. Among all respondents, 9% had never heard of a COVID-19 vaccine, 12% had been vaccinated, and 20% knew someone else who had been vaccinated. The prevalence of vaccine hesitancy varied by country (Ethiopia 29%, Burkina Faso 33%, Nigeria 34%, Ghana 42%, Tanzania 65%), but not by rural or urban context. People who did not think the vaccine was safe or effective, or who were unsure about it, were more likely to be vaccine hesitant. Those who reported they did not have a trusted source of information about the vaccine (aPR: 1.25, 95% CI: 1.18,1.31) and those who thought the vaccine would not be made available to them within the year were more likely to be vaccine hesitant. Women were more likely to be vaccine hesitant (aPR: 1.31, 95% CI: 1.19,1.43) and believe COVID-19 falsehoods (aPR: 1.05, 95% CI: 1.02,1.08). The most commonly believed falsehoods were that the vaccine was developed too fast and that there was not enough information about whether the vaccine was effective or not. Educational campaigns targeted at misinformation and tailored to suit each country are recommended to build trust in COVID-19 vaccines and reduce hesitancy.
Variation in perceived health across gender, working status, educational level, and regional health care expenditure in Spain (2014–2017)
Authors: Godoy-Bermúdez Amanda , Rojo-Gallego-Burin Araceli , Delgado-Márquez Luisa , Martín-Martín José J. , Sánchez-Martínez M. Teresa , López del Amo-González M. Puerto
Published: July 2023

A gender perspective was used to analyze whether and how education, unemployment, and per capita public health expenditure were associated with perceived health among the Spanish population between the years 2014 and 2017. Using multilevel methodologies (looking at year, individual, and region) and linear and logistic specifications, we analyzed longitudinal microdata files from the Survey on Living Conditions. The results suggest that women with lower educational levels tend to report worse health than their more educated counterparts. On the other hand, women’s bad health was not associated with unemployment, unlike men’s. Regional per capita public health expenditure was not associated with perceived health in either men or women.
Effects of mobile device use on emotional and behavioral problems in the CBCL among preschoolers: Do shared reading and maternal depression matter?
Authors: Wu Hsin-Yi , Lin Wen-Yi , Huang Jian-Pei , Lin Chen-Li , Au Heng-Kien , Lo Yu-Chun , Chien Ling-Chu , Chao Hsing Jasmine , Chen Yi-Hua
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Although mobile devices are used ubiquitously, studies on their detrimental effects on preschoolers are limited. Furthermore, no study has considered shared reading and mobile device usage simultaneously. Therefore, this study examined the effects of mobile devices and shared reading on preschoolers’ development along with the effects of maternal depression on this association.

Materials and methods

Mothers of 202 children aged 2–5 years were recruited in Taiwan. Maternal self-reported questionnaires on mobile device usage, shared reading, and child’s emotional and behavioral development were collected. Multiple linear regression models were used for analyses.

Results

Mothers’ higher usage time on mobile devices and an education level of college or less were significantly associated with the child’s exceeding recommended use of mobile devices. Particularly among depressed mothers, preschoolers’ exceeding recommended use of mobile devices was associated with more sleep (β = 9.87, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.34, 18.40) and attention (β = 7.20, 95% CI = 1.50, 12.91) problems, whereas shared reading was associated with less somatic complaints (β = −16.19, 95% CI = −32.22, −0.15) and withdrawn (β = −21.50, 95% CI = −40.52, −2.47), compared with their respective counterparts.

Conclusion

Our study suggested the beneficial effects of shared reading. Moreover, we highlighted the adverse effects of preschoolers’ exceeding recommended use of mobile device on sleep and attention problems, especially for children of mothers with depression.
Third-trimester persistent maternal hypotension effects on late-onset small for gestational age and adverse perinatal outcomes
Authors: Eraslan Sahin Mefkure , Sahin Erdem , Kirlangic Mehmet Mete
Published: July 2023

Introduction

The purpose of the current study was to examine whether third-trimester persistent maternal hypotension is related to small for gestational age (SGA) and adverse perinatal outcomes.

Methods

In this large retrospective cohort study, 6560 pregnant women were enrolled and divided into two groups according to maternal tension status: a normotensive group (n: 6290) and a persistent maternal hypotensive group (n: 270). Persistent maternal hypotension was defined as an SBP <100 mmHg and/or DBP <60 mmHg at three antenatal visits: visit 1 (260/7–296/7 gestation weeks), visit 2 (300/7–336/7 gestation weeks), and visit 3 (340/7–366/7 gestation weeks). Following the Delphi consensus criteria, a fetal growth restriction diagnosis was employed. The presence of an SGA neonate was the primary outcome of the study. SGA was defined as fetal abdominal circumference below the 10th percentile or fetal birth weight below the 10th percentile in the absence of abnormal Doppler findings. The secondary outcomes were defined as the presence of other adverse perinatal outcomes.

Results

The baseline characteristics of the study population were similar. We found that SGA rates were 6.3% in the control group and 7.0% in the persistent maternal hypotension group, which were statistically similar. In the present study, the secondary outcomes which prematurity, low 5-min Apgar score, and NICU admission were similarly between groups.

Discussion

Our results indicate that third-trimester persistent hypotension is not associated with SGA neonates or adverse perinatal outcomes. Hence, it can be concluded that third-trimester persistent hypotension is a physiological phenomenon during pregnancy that should not cause anxiety in mothers.
Nutritional status of tribal and non-tribal adults in rural Bangladesh: A comparative study
Authors: Karim Md. Reazul , Mamun Abu Sayed Md. Al , Hossain Md. Ripter , Islam Md. Nurul , Rana Md. Masud , Wadood Md. Abdul , Bose Kaushik , Bharati Premananda , Hossain Md. Golam
Published: July 2023

Background

Nutritional status is an important indicator of health status among adults. However, to date, there exists scanty information on the nutritional status of tribal populations of Bangladesh. The aim of the study was to investigate the nutritional status of tribal (T) and non-tribal (NT) adult people living in the rural area of Rajshahi district, Bangladesh.

Methods

A total of 420 (72 T and 348 NT) households were studied. The samples were selected using multistage stratified sampling with proportional allocation. The nutritional status of adults was measured using body mass index (BMI). Descriptive statistics, t-test, ANOVA and Z-proportional test were utilized for data analysis.

Results

The study revealed that 8.3% and 9.2% of T and NT men were suffering from under nutrition respectively, while the corresponding figures in women were 12.5% and 10.1% respectively. Overall, 11.1% and 27.0% men, and 13.9% and 29.3% women T and NT were over-nourished respectively. The rate of over nutrition among T was significantly (p<0.05) higher than NT for both sexes. The mean weight and BMI of the NT men were significantly (p<0.01) higher than T men. The mean weight, height and BMI of NT women were higher (p<0.05) than T women. ANOVA demonstrated that the variation in BMI among education levels of NT men and the variation among occupation for both ethnicities were significant (p<0.01). The variation in BMI among education levels and occupation of T and NT women were significant (p<0.05), moreover ordinal logistic regression model demonstrated that hygienic toilet facilities and father’s occupation were predictors of nutritional status. The interaction effects of education and occupation, and education and household monthly income on BMI were significant (p<0.01) for T men and both T and NT women (p<0.05).

Conclusions

The prevalence of over-nutrition among NT is higher than T for both sexes. Some socio-economic and demographic factors were found as predictors of malnutrition. At least 12 of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) contain indicators that are highly related to nutrition, our findings can help Bangladesh Government for achieving SDGs by 2030. Appropriate nutritional intervention and awareness programmes can be initiated by the Government to ameliorate the burden of malnutrition among adults in the country.
Droplet digital PCR versus real-time PCR for in-house validation of porcine detection and quantification protocol: An artificial recombinant plasmid approach
Authors: Nuraeni Umi , Malau Jekmal , Astuti Retno Tri , Dewantoro Auraga , Apriori Dini , Lusiana Evellin Dewi , Prasetya Bambang
Published: July 2023

Authenticity and traceability are essential for modern food and medicine inspection, and reliable techniques are important for the trade of halal foods, which reach more than 20 percent of the world market. A sensitive and accurate porcine detection method is required to develop a conformity assessment system that includes laboratory testing for porcine-free certification. This study proposes a procedure that could be incorporated into the development of a standardized control and protocol for real-time PCR (qPCR) methods and their traceability using droplet digital PCR (ddPCR). The design used a recombinant pUC57 plasmid as an amplification target to carry the 97 bp fragment of the porcine ATCB gene. The absolute quantification and linearity assessment showed high precision with R2 values of 0.9971 and 0.9998 for qPCR and ddPCR, respectively. In general, both methods showed comparable results in terms of linearity and detection limit. However, both limit of detection assessments showed high sensitivity, although ddPCR showed a slightly higher sensitivity than that of qPCR, especially at low DNA concentrations. Multiple-sample and inter-participatory testing evaluations revealed a high sensitivity, broad applicability, and robustness of the qPCR method. Therefore, we conclude that based on a recombinant plasmid analysis with a low quantity (less than five copy number), the digital PCR method produced more reliable results. These results could provide scientific information for regulatory authorities, especially those in Indonesia, to consider the development and formulation of a well-established qPCR protocol for porcine detection using expected DNA concentrations.
Malaria infection and its association with socio-demographics, long lasting insecticide nets usage and hematological parameters among adolescent patients in rural Southwestern Nigeria
Authors: IBRAHIM Azeez Oyemomi , Agbesanwa Tosin Anthony , AREMU Shuaib Kayode , BELLO Ibrahim Sebutu , ELEGBEDE Olayide Toyin , GABRIEL-ALAYODE Olusegun Emmanuel , AJETUNMOBI Oluwaserimi Adewumi , ADEWOYE Kayode Rasaq , OLANREWAJU Temitope Moronkeji , ARIYIBI Ebenezer Kayode , OMONIJO Adetunji , SANNI Taofeek Adedayo , ALABI Ayodele Kamal , OLUSUYI Kolawole
Published: July 2023

Background

There is increasing evidence suggesting that adolescents are contributing to the populations at risk of malaria. This study determined the prevalence of malaria infection among the adolescents and examined the associated determinants considering socio-demographic, Long Lasting Insecticide Nets (LLINs) usage, and hematological factors in rural Southwestern Nigeria.

Methods

A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted between July 2021 and September 2022 among 180 adolescents who were recruited at a tertiary health facility in rural Southwestern Nigeria. Interviewer administered questionnaire sought information on their socio-demographics and usage of LLINs. Venous blood samples were collected and processed for malaria parasite detection, ABO blood grouping, hemoglobin genotype, and packed cell volume. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

The prevalence of malaria infection was 71.1% (95% CI: 68.2%-73.8%). Lack of formal education (AOR = 2.094; 95% CI: 1.288–3.403), being a rural residence (AOR = 4.821; 95% CI: 2.805–8.287), not using LLINs (AOR = 1.950; 95% CI: 1.525–2.505), genotype AA (AOR = 3.420; 95% CI: 1.003–11.657), genotype AS (AOR = 3.574; 95%CI: 1.040–12.277), rhesus positive (AOR = 1.815; 95% CI:1.121–2.939), and severe anemia (AOR = 1.533; 95% CI: 1.273–1.846) were significantly associated with malaria infection.

Conclusion

The study revealed the prevalence of malaria infection among the adolescents in rural Southwestern Nigeria. There may be need to pay greater attention to adolescent populations for malaria intervention and control programs.
Dynamic transcriptome profiling provides insights into rhizome enlargement in ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.)
Authors: Ren Yun , Li Wen Bo , Li Zhe Xin , Zhang Wen Lin , Jue Deng Wei , Xing Hai Tao , Li Hong Lei , Li Qiang
Published: July 2023

The rhizome is an economically important part of ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.). However, the mechanism of ginger rhizome enlargement remains unclear. In this study, we performed an integrated analysis of the hormone content and transcriptome of ginger at three rhizome enlargement stages: initial enlargement (S1), middle enlargement (S2), and peak enlargement (S3). With rhizome enlargement, the levels of the hormones zeatin (ZT), gibberellic acid (GA), indole acetic acid (IAA), and jasmonic acid (JA) were significantly increased, and this increase was positively correlated with rhizome diameter. Transcriptomic analysis identified a large number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs); the number of DEGs were 2,206 in the transition from S1 to S2, and 1,151 in the transition from S2 to S3. The expression of several genes related to hormone biosynthesis and signalling and cell division or expansion, and transcription factors was significantly altered, which suggests that these genes play essential roles in rhizome enlargement. The results of correlation analysis suggested that the process of ginger rhizome enlargement may be primarily related to the regulation of endogenous cytokinin, GA3, auxin, and JA biosynthesis pathways and signal transduction; GRAS, HB, MYB, MYB122, bZIP60, ARF1, ARF2, E2FB1, and E2FB2, which may regulate the expression of rhizome formation-related genes; and CYC2, CDKB1, CDKB2, EXPA1, and XTH7, which may mediate cell division and expansion. These results provide gene resources and information that will be useful for the molecular breeding in ginger.
A new scoring system with simple preoperative parameters as predictors of early recurrence of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Shimagaki Tomonari , Sugimachi Keishi , Mano Yohei , Tomino Takahiro , Onishi Emi , Nakashima Yuichiro , Sugiyama Masahiko , Yamamoto Manabu , Morita Masaru , Shimokawa Mototsugu , Yoshizumi Tomoharu , Toh Yasushi
Published: July 2023

Background

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) often recurs early after radical resection, and such early recurrence (ER) is associated with a poor prognosis. Predicting ER is useful for determining the optimal treatment.

Methods

One hundred fifty-three patients who underwent pancreatectomy for PDAC were divided into an ER group (n = 54) and non-ER group (n = 99). Clinicopathological factors were compared between the groups, and the predictors of ER and prognosis after PDAC resection were examined.

Results

The ER group had a higher platelet count, higher platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), higher preoperative CA19-9 concentration, higher SPan-1 concentration, larger tumor diameter, and more lymph node metastasis. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis identified cut-off values for PLR, carbohydrate antigen 19–9 (CA19-9), SPan-1, and tumor diameter. In the multivariate analysis, a high PLR, high CA19-9, and tumor diameter of >3.1 cm were independent predictors of ER after resection (all p < 0.05). When the parameter exceeded the cut-off level, 1 point was given, and the total score of the three factors was defined as the ER prediction score. Next, our new ER prediction model using PLR, CA19-9 and tumor diameter (Logit(p) = 1.6 + 1.2 × high PLR + 0.7 × high CA19-9 + 0.5 × tumor diameter > 3.1cm) distinguished ER with an area under the curve of 0.763, a sensitivity of 85.2%, and a specificity of 55.6%.

Conclusions

ER after resection of PDAC can be predicted by calculation of a score using the preoperative serum CA19-9 concentration, PLR, and tumor diameter.
Effect of γ-PGA and γ-PGA SAP on soil microenvironment and the yield of winter wheat
Authors: Guo Jianzhong , Zhang Jingjing , Zhang Kangping , Li Sen , Zhang Yongkang
Published: July 2023

Agricultural poly-γ-glutamic acid (γ-PGA) and γ-PGA super absorbent polymer (SAP) are two forms of γ-PGA applied in agriculture. Different quantities of γ-PGA and γ-PGA SAP (40 kg/hm2, 80 kg/hm2, 120 kg/hm2 and 160 kg/hm2) were applied to the soil in order to investigate their effects on the microenvironment of soil root zone and the yield of winter wheat. The soil water content increased with increasing amounts of γ-PGA SAP. The content of nitrate nitrogen and ammonium nitrogen increased with the increasing amounts of γ-PGA, while γ-PGA SAP significantly increased the content of ammonium nitrogen. The number of soil microorganisms and soil enzyme activities in the root zone increased with the addition of γ-PGA and γ-PGA SAP. The yield of winter wheat increased with the addition of γ-PGA or γ-PGA SAP, but the increasing rate decreased when the amount of γ-PGA and γ-PGA SAP exceeded 80 kg/hm2, with increases of 5.95% and 6.77% compared to the control group, respectively. The addition of γ-PGA significantly increased the protein content of wheat grains, and the WUE increased with increasing amounts of γ-PGA and γ-PGA SAP.
A multicentric, single arm, prospective, stratified clinical investigation to evaluate MammoWave’s ability in breast lesions detection
Authors: Sánchez-Bayuela Daniel Álvarez , Ghavami Navid , Tiberi Gianluigi , Sani Lorenzo , Vispa Alessandro , Bigotti Alessandra , Raspa Giovanni , Badia Mario , Papini Lorenzo , Ghavami Mohammad , Castellano Cristina Romero , Bernardi Daniela , Calabrese Massimo , Tagliafico Alberto Stefano
Published: July 2023

Microwave imaging is a safe and promising new technology in breast radiology, avoiding discomfort of breast compression and usage of ionizing radiation. This paper presents the first prospective microwave breast imaging study during which both symptomatic and asymptomatic subjects were recruited. Specifically, a prospective multicentre international clinical trial was performed in 2020–2021, to investigate the capability of a microwave imaging device (MammoWave) in allowing distinction between breasts with no radiological finding (NF) and breasts with radiological findings (WF), i.e., with benign or malignant lesions. Each breast scan was performed with the volunteers lying on a dedicated examination table in a comfortable prone position. MammoWave output was compared to reference standard (i.e., radiologic study obtained within the last month and integrated with histological one if available and deemed necessary by responsible investigator) to classify breasts into NF/WF categories. MammoWave output consists of a selection of microwave images’ features (determined prior to trials’ start), which allow distinction between NF and WF breasts (using statistical significance p<0.05). 353 women were enrolled in the study (mean age 51 years ± 12 [SD], minimum age 19, maximum age 78); MammoWave data from the first 15 women of each site, all with NF breasts, were used for calibration. Following central assessor evaluation, 111 NF (48 dense) and 272 WF (136 dense) breasts were used for comparison with MammoWave output. 272 WF comprised 182 benign findings and 90 malignant histology-confirmed cancer. A sensitivity of 82.3% was achieved (95%CI: 0.78–0.87); sensitivity is maintained when limiting the investigation to histology-confirmed breasts cancer only (90 histology-confirmed breasts cancer have been included in this analysis, having sizes ranging from 3 mm to 60 mm). Specificity value of approximately 50% was achieved as expected, since thresholds were calculated (for each feature) using median value obtained after recruiting the first 15 women (of each site), all NF. This prospective trial may represent another step for introducing microwave imaging into clinical practice, for helping in breast lesion identification in asymptomatic women.
Mathematical modeling of Dengue virus serotypes propagation in Mexico
Authors: Sánchez-González Gilberto , Condé Renaud
Published: July 2023

The Dengue virus (DENV) constitutes a major vector borne virus disease worldwide. Prediction of the DENV spread dynamics, prevalence and infection rates are crucial elements to guide the public health services effort towards meaningful actions. The existence of four DENV serotypes further complicates the virus proliferation forecast. The different serotypes have varying clinical impacts, and the symptomatology of the infection is dependent on the infection history of the patient. Therefore, changes in the prevalent DENV serotype found in one location have a profound impact on the regional public health. The prediction of the spread and intensity of infection of the individual DENV serotypes in specific locations would allow the authorities to plan local pesticide spray to control the vector as well as the purchase of specific antibody therapy. Here we used a mathematical model to predict serotype-specific DENV prevalence and overall case burden in Mexico.
Spatial distribution and influencing factors of high-quality tourist attractions in Shandong Province, China
Authors: Wang Min , Liu Shumin , Wang Chenxu
Published: July 2023

Optimizing the spatial layout of high-quality tourist attractions is of great significance in the sustainable development of the tourism industry. This work employs the ArcGIS spatial analysis tool to study the form, equality, and density of the spatial distribution of the 892 3A+ tourist attractions (high-quality tourist attractions hereafter) in Shandong Province, China. It also examines the factors influencing the spatial distribution of tourist attractions from the perspectives of geographic features and landscapes, culture and heritage, socioeconomic development, and transportation. We therefore find the following: 1) High-quality tourist attractions in Shandong Province have obvious clustering in spatial distribution with the high-density areas mainly concentrated in Qingdao, Jining, Jinan, Tai’an and other cities. Influenced by resource endowment and economic development, the two major geographical areas in Central Shandong and Jiaodong Peninsula have the most concentrated distribution of high-quality tourist attractions. 2) The distribution of high-quality tourist attractions shows a southwest‒northeast clustering direction; Qingdao is a high-high clustering area, and Heze is a low-high clustering area with low uniformity of spatial distribution and obvious spatial divergence. 3) Tourist attractions show an obvious "N" type high-density distribution belt and nuclear density distribution across the three existing agglomeration centers in the Jining–Tai’an intersection, Binzhou–Dongying intersection, and Qingdao Jiaozhou Bay coast. 4) Topography, climate conditions, history and culture are intrinsic factors affecting the spatial distribution of tourist attractions, while socioeconomic and transportation conditions are external requirements for the development thereof; collectively, they constrain the spatial distribution of high-quality tourist attractions.
CHO-produced RBD-Fc subunit vaccines with alternative adjuvants generate immune responses against SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Laotee Sedthawut , Duangkaew Methawee , Jivapetthai Araya , Tharakhet Kittipan , Kaewpang Papatsara , Prompetchara Eakachai , Phumiamorn Supaporn , Sapsutthipas Sompong , Trisiriwanich Sakalin , Somsaard Thitiporn , Roytrakul Sittiruk , Duangkhae Parichat , Ongpipattanakul Boonsri , Limpikirati Patanachai , Pornputtapong Natapol , Arunmanee Wanatchaporn
Published: July 2023

Subunit vaccines feature critical advantages over other vaccine platforms such as stability, price, and minimal adverse effects. To maximize immunological protection of subunit vaccines, adjuvants are considered as main components that are formulated within the subunit vaccine. They can modulate adverse effects and enhance immune outcomes. However, the most suitable formulation providing the best immunological outcomes and safety are still under investigation. In this report, we combined recombinant RBD with human IgG1 Fc to create an RBD dimer. This fusion protein was expressed in CHO and formulated with alternative adjuvants with different immune activation including Montanide ISA51, Poly (I:C), and MPLA/Quil-A® as potential vaccine candidate formulations. Using the murine model, a potent induction of anti-RBD IgG antibodies in immunized mice sera were observed. IgG subclass analyses (IgG1/IgG2a) illustrated that all adjuvanted formulations could stimulate both Th1 and Th2-type immune responses in particular Poly (I:C) and MPLA/Quil-A®, eliciting greater balance. In addition, Montanide ISA51-formulated RBD-Fc vaccination provided a promising level of neutralizing antibodies against live wild-type SARS-CoV-2 in vitro followed by Poly (I:C) and MPLA/Quil-A®, respectively. Also, mice sera from adjuvanted formulations could strongly inhibit RBD:ACE2 interaction. This study offers immunogenicity profiles, forecasted safety based on Vaccine-associated enhanced disease (VAED) caused by Th1-skewed immunity, and neutralizing antibody analysis of candidates of RBD-Fc-based subunit vaccine formulations to obtain an alternative subunit vaccine formulation against SARS-CoV-2.
Physical literacy assessment in adults: A systematic review
Authors: Boldovskaia Aia , Dias Nuno Manuel Gonçalves , Silva Marlene N. , Carraça Eliana V.
Published: July 2023

Physical literacy is a multidimensional construct that has been defined and interpreted in various ways, one of the most common being “the motivation, confidence, physical competence, knowledge and understanding to maintain physical activity throughout the life course”. Although its improvement can positively affect many behavioral, psychological, social, and physical variables, debate remains over an appropriate method of collecting empirical physical literacy data. This systematic review sought to identify and critically evaluate all primary studies (published and unpublished, regardless of design or language) that assessed physical literacy in adults or have proposed measurement criteria. Relevant studies were identified by searching four databases (Pubmed, SportDiscus, APA PsycINFO, Web of Science), scanning reference lists of included articles, and manual cross-referencing of bibliographies cited in prior reviews. The final search was concluded on July 15, 2022. Thirty-one studies, published from 2016 to 2022, were analyzed. We found seven instruments measuring physical literacy in adults, of which six were questionnaires. The Perceived Physical Literacy Instrument was the first developed for adults and the most adopted. The included studies approached physical literacy definition in two ways: by pre-defining domains and assessing them discretely (through pre-validated or self-constructed instruments) and by defining domains as sub-scales after factorial analyses. We found a fair use of objective and subjective measures to assess different domains. The wide use of instruments developed for other purposes in combined assessments suggests the need for further instrument development and the potential oversimplification of the holistic concept, which may not result in a better understanding of physical literacy. Quality and usability characteristics of measurements were generally insufficiently reported. This lack of data makes it impossible to compare and make robust conclusions. We could not identify if any of the existing physical literacy assessments for adults is appropriate for large-scale/epidemiological studies.
Artificial intelligence for detecting temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis using radiographic image data: A systematic review and meta-analysis of diagnostic test accuracy
Authors: Xu Liang , Chen Jiang , Qiu Kaixi , Yang Feng , Wu Weiliang
Published: July 2023

In this review, we assessed the diagnostic efficiency of artificial intelligence (AI) models in detecting temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis (TMJOA) using radiographic imaging data. Based upon the PRISMA guidelines, a systematic review of studies published between January 2010 and January 2023 was conducted using PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Embase. Articles on the accuracy of AI to detect TMJOA or degenerative changes by radiographic imaging were selected. The characteristics and diagnostic information of each article were extracted. The quality of studies was assessed by the QUADAS-2 tool. Pooled data for sensitivity, specificity, and summary receiver operating characteristic curve (SROC) were calculated. Of 513 records identified through a database search, six met the inclusion criteria and were collected. The pooled sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve (AUC) were 80%, 90%, and 92%, respectively. Substantial heterogeneity between AI models mainly arose from imaging modality, ethnicity, sex, techniques of AI, and sample size. This article confirmed AI models have enormous potential for diagnosing TMJOA automatically through radiographic imaging. Therefore, AI models appear to have enormous potential to diagnose TMJOA automatically using radiographic images. However, further studies are needed to evaluate AI more thoroughly.
Quantifying inter-annual variability on the space-use of parental Northern Gannets (Morus bassanus) in pursuit of different prey types
Authors: d’Entremont Kyle J. N. , Pratte Isabeau , Gjerdrum Carina , Wong Sarah N. P. , Montevecchi William A.
Published: July 2023

Spatial planning for marine areas of multi-species conservation concern requires in-depth assessment of the distribution of predators and their prey. Northern Gannets Morus bassanus are generalist predators that predate several different forage fishes depending on their availability. In the western North Atlantic, gannets employ different dive tactics while in pursuit of different prey types, performing deep, prolonged U-shaped dives when foraging on capelin (Mallotus villosus), and rapid, shallow, V-shaped dives when foraging on larger pelagic fishes. Therefore, much can be inferred about the distribution and abundance of key forage fishes by assessing the foraging behaviour and space-use of gannets. In this study, we aimed to quantify space-use and to determine areas of suitable foraging habitat for gannets in pursuit of different prey types using habitat suitability models and kernel density utilization distributions. We deployed 25 GPS/Time-depth recorder devices on parental Northern Gannets at Cape St. Mary’s, Newfoundland, Canada from 2019 to 2021. To assess the influence of environmental variables on gannets foraging for different prey types, we constructed three different habitat suitability models: a U-shaped dive model, and two V-shaped dive models (early and late chick-rearing). Suitable foraging habitat for capelin, deduced by the U-shaped dive model, was defined by coastal, shallow waters with flat relief and sea surface temperatures (SST) of 11–15° C. Suitable habitat for early V-shaped dives was defined by shallow and coastal waters with steep slope and SST of 12–15°C and ~18°C, likely reflecting the variability in environmental preferences of different prey species captured when performing V-shaped dives. Suitable habitat for late V-shaped dives was defined by shallow coastal waters (<100m depth), as well as waters deeper than 200 m, and by SST greater than 16°C. We show that space-use by gannets can vary both within and between years depending on environmental conditions and the prey they are searching for, with consequences for the extent of potential interaction with anthropogenic activities. Further, we suggest regions defined as suitable for U-shaped dives are likely to be critical habitat of multi-species conservation concern, as these regions are likely to represent consistent capelin spawning habitat.
Reliability of surface electromyographic (sEMG) measures of equine axial and appendicular muscles during overground trot
Authors: St. George L. , Spoormakers T. J. P. , Roy S. H. , Hobbs S. J. , Clayton H. M. , Richards J. , Serra Bragança F. M.
Published: July 2023

The reliability of surface electromyography (sEMG) has not been adequately demonstrated in the equine literature and is an essential consideration as a methodology for application in clinical gait analysis. This observational study investigated within-session, intra-subject (stride-to-stride) and inter-subject reliability, and between-session reliability of normalised sEMG activity profiles, from triceps brachii (triceps), latissimus dorsi (latissimus), longissimus dorsi (longissimus), biceps femoris (biceps), superficial gluteal (gluteal) and semitendinosus muscles in n = 8 clinically non-lame horses during in-hand trot. sEMG sensors were bilaterally located on muscles to collect data during two test sessions (session 1 and 2) with a minimum 24-hour interval. Raw sEMG signals from ten trot strides per horse and session were DC-offset removed, high-pass filtered (40 Hz), full-wave rectified, and low-pass filtered (25 Hz). Signals were normalised to peak amplitude and percent stride before calculating intra- and inter-subject ensemble average sEMG profiles across strides for each muscle and session. sEMG profiles were assessed using waveform similarity statistics: the coefficient of variation (CV) to assess intra- and inter-subject reliability and the adjusted coefficient of multiple correlation (CMC) to evaluate between-session reliability. Across muscles, CV data revealed that intra-horse sEMG profiles within- and between-sessions were comparatively more reliable than inter-horse profiles. Bilateral gluteal, semitendinosus, triceps and longissimus (at T14 and L1) and right biceps showed excellent between-session reliability with group-averaged CMCs > 0.90 (range 0.90–0.97). Bilateral latissimus and left biceps showed good between-session reliability with group-averaged CMCs > 0.75 (range 0.78–0.88). sEMG profiles can reliably describe fundamental muscle activity patterns for selected equine muscles within a test session for individual horses (intra-subject). However, these profiles are more variable across horses (inter-subject) and between sessions (between-session reliability), suggesting that it is reasonable to use sEMG to objectively monitor the intra-individual activity of these muscles across multiple gait evaluation sessions at in-hand trot.
Open-source 3-D printable autoinjector: Design, testing, and regulatory limitations
Authors: Selvaraj Anjutha , Kulkarni Apoorv , Pearce J. M.
Published: July 2023

Autoinjectors have become popular modern injectable medical devices used as drug delivery systems. Due to their ease, capability and reliability compared to other conventional injectable medical devices, the market and manufacturing demand for autoinjector devices are increasing rapidly and expected to reach a market of $37.5 billion globally by 2025. Although autoinjectors can offset healthcare treatment costs through self-administered medication, they can be expensive for consumers, which limit their accessibility. This study describes the design and manufacture of a spring-driven and 3-D printed autoinjector to overcome this economic accessibility challenge. The digitally replicable device is released as open-source hardware to enable low-cost distributed manufacturing. The bill of materials and assembly instructions are detailed, and the effectiveness of the autoinjector is tested against the current standard (ISO 11608–1:2022) for needle-based injection systems. The safety and dosing accuracy was tested by measuring the weight of 100% ethyl alcohol expelled from six BD Insulin syringes with varying capacities or needle lengths. A one-way analysis assessed the variability between the dose delivery efficiency of 1mL, 0.5mL, and 0.3mL syringes. Testing indicated that the entire dose was delivered over 97.5% of the time for 1mL and 0.5mL syringes, but the autoinjector’s loaded spring force and size exceeded structural limitations of 0.3mL or smaller syringes. Components can be manufactured in about twelve hours using an open-source desktop RepRap-class fused filament 3-D printer. The construction requires two compression springs and 3-D printed parts. The total material cost of CAD$6.83 is less than a tenth of comparable commercial autoinjectors, which makes this approach promising. The autoinjector, however, is a class two medical device and must be approved by regulators. Future work is needed to make distributed manufacturing of such medical devices feasible and reliable to support individuals burdened by healthcare costs.
Inhabiting Digital Worlds
Authors: Karamercan Axel Onur
Published: July 2023

The significance of notions such as digital worlds and spaces remains vague despite their common use in digital humanities, and the extent to which these are bound up with our relation to place and the world is often disregarded. The aim of this article is to clarify the philosophical underpinnings of these concepts, identify the problematic aspects of our relation to digital technologies, and explore the possibility of developing a topological reflection on our being in digital environments. In drawing from the 20th-century German thinker Martin Heidegger’s philosophy of place and technology, the article problematizes the modern conception of the world as a mere spatial network and outlines the phenomenological boundaries of digital spaces. By giving particular attention to explaining the ontological and hermeneutic meaning of the notion of distance, the article elucidates the interplay between nearness and remoteness and arrives at three correlated meanings of distance.
Designing (with) Computational Objects
Authors: Carvalhais Miguel
Published: July 2023

We live in a regime of computation, a post-digital condition in which we coexist with a technological unconscious that surrounds us and saturates our lives. This paper looks at how this affects us as citizens, and transforms our practices as designers, architects, artists, and creators of things. It examines how computation impacts things and spaces—from tools to media, from architecture to environments—and how its affordances breed new objects that are ontologically at odds with the non-computational things and spaces we have grown accustomed to. It enquires how we can negotiate authorial positions in this algorithmic world, and how working within computation reshapes the core tenets of design, or even casts a light onto what those have really been all the time.
Tres mujeres de origen escocés en el Madrid del siglo XVIII
Authors: Martín-Valdepeñas Yagüe Elisa
Published: July 2023

Este artículo trata de reconstruir la vida de tres mujeres de origen escocés −María Benita de Rozas y Drummond (1719-1801), Jean Woodrow (1720-1792) y María Felipa Campbell y Woodrow (1744-1820)− que desplegaron prestigio e influencia en diferentes ámbitos del Madrid dieciochesco (cortesanos, diplomáticos, gubernamentales, religiosos, etc.). Las tres, procedentes de los círculos jacobitas, estaban unidas por fuertes vínculos de solidaridad, amistad y parentesco. Sus biografías, cada una con su propia individualidad, evidencian sus estrategias de apoyo mutuo y de protección ante la precariedad, para ellas y sus familiares. Aprovecharon su relevancia social y su capacidad para moverse en los ambientes cortesanos para favorecer sus intereses, mediante el uso del juego de favores y lealtades que caracterizaba la sociedad el Antiguo Régimen. Estas trayectorias visibilizan el papel que las mujeres pudieron desempeñar en la menos conocida y más reducida red de nación escocesa en la España del siglo XVIII y su adaptación al ámbito hispano del ejercicio del patronazgo, de gran arraigo entre las damas jacobitas exiliadas en Francia. Para la reconstrucción biográfica de estas mujeres y de los familiares de su círculo se ha recurrido a diferentes centros archivísticos públicos y privados, sobre todo madrileños, donde se han manejado cartas, documentos notariales, expedientes personales, partidas eclesiásticas, etc., así como a documentación manuscrita e impresa de la época, conservada en bibliotecas españolas y extranjeras, disponible en parte en repositorios digitales. Esto ha permitido trazar con bastante verosimilitud, a pesar de los inevitables vacíos biográficos, las semblanzas vitales de estas tres señoras.
Merge in the Ethereum Blockchain
Authors: Bertalan András , Gyenge Balázs , Kacz Károly
Published: July 2023

The food industry has been at the forefront of rapid implementation for several technological innovations. One of the main reasons for this is that food security has been of paramount importance in supplying a growing population, taking into account both quantitative and qualitative requirements. And the necessary development could only be ensured by incorporating the latest developments.

Blockchain technology is also a tool to consider in terms of how it can help track food chains. Its widespread application is only a decade old, but in some areas, for example, the operation of cryptocurrencies has already accumulated enough experience to see if it really lives up to the hopes attached to it, and what problems still stand in the way of further spread.

With this material, our primary goal is to present a significant technological change that aims to solve one of the main problems of blockchain-based data management. It will be presented how the technology works (with a specific focus on the proof of work mechanism) and the transition to a truly significant platform, the proof of stake mechanism at Ethereum. This gives us an idea of how much a relatively new technology can undergo changes, and at what rate a seemingly significant problem (in this case, e.g. environmental impact) can decrease. This potential for development provides the basis for counting blockchains as a technology that can be applied in other areas, such as the food industry.

In addition to scientific treatises, we often rely on Internet sources in the material, since the change occurred so quickly that publications in scientific journals could not yet track it or only in a narrower circle.
Examination of the Composition and Dielectric Properties of Wines from the Csongrád Wine Region
Authors: Juhász Blanka , Jákói Zoltán Péter , Lemmer Balázs
Published: July 2023

In Hungary, viticulture and winemaking have a very long tradition and culture. Nowadays, more and more consumers are paying attention to the nutritional properties of the food they consume, in addition to their enjoyment value. Wines can have an outstanding antioxidant content. The amount of antioxidants can be influenced by a number of parameters (wine-making technology, grape variety, area under vines, etc.). Antioxidants play an important role in the preservation of health, as well as inhibiting oxidation processes in food. Dielectric material analysis methods are also increasingly used in the food industry. The great advantages of dielectric testing include its chemical-free nature and the speed of the test. In our studies, we have investigated the food properties, i.e. alcohol, acid and antioxidant content and dielectric properties of different wine samples
Functional Analysis of Linking Adverbials in Chemistry and English Language Teaching
Authors: Ebrahimi Seyed Foad , Alboghobiesh Vafa
Published: July 2023

Linking adverbials are important linguistic features that signal a cohesive link between parts of the discourse. This study intends to explore the frequencies and discourse functions of linking adverbials in research articles across two disciplines: English Language Teaching and Chemistry. To this end, a corpus of 40 research articles from each discipline were selected from high-prestige journals recommended by successful researchers in the respective fields. The selected research articles were taken from the 2018-2019 issues of the journals. Liu's (2008) updated and widely recognized classification of linking adverbials was employed to identify linking adverbials. Findings revealed the disciplinary differences concerning frequencies and functions of linking adverbials and categories and subcategories of linking adverbials. By comparing the results of this study with previous literature, it could be concluded that frequencies and functions of linking adverbials are imposed by the nature of discipline and genre.