bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of high-velocity stars in the S-PLUS internal fourth data release
Authors: Quispe-Huaynasi F , Roig F , Placco V M , Beraldo e Silva L , Daflon S , Pereira C B , Kanaan A , Mendes de Oliveira C , Ribeiro T , Schoenell W
Published: November 2023

In general, the atypical high velocity of some stars in the Galaxy can only be explained by invoking acceleration mechanisms related to extreme astrophysical events in the Milky Way. Using astrometric data from Gaia and the photometric information in 12 filters of the S-PLUS, we performed a kinematic, dynamical, and chemical analysis of 64 stars with Galactocentric velocities higher than 400 $\mathrm{km\, s}^{-1}$. All the stars are gravitationally bound to the Galaxy and exhibit halo kinematics. Some of the stars could be remnants of structures such as the Sequoia and the Gaia-Sausage/Enceladus. Supported by orbital and chemical analysis, we identified Gaia DR3 5401875170994688896 as a star likely to be originated at the centre of the Galaxy. Application of a machine learning technique to the S-PLUS photometric data allows us to obtain very good estimates of magnesium abundances for this sample of high-velocity stars.
X-ray scaling relations of early-type galaxies in IllustrisTNG and a new way of identifying backsplash objects
Authors: Wang Yunchong , Vogelsberger Mark , Kim Dong-Woo , Borrow Josh , Smith Aaron , Hernquist Lars , Lin Wenjie
Published: November 2023

We investigate how feedback and environment shapes the X-ray scaling relations of early-type galaxies (ETGs), especially at the low-mass end. We select central-ETGs from the TNG100 box of IllustrisTNG that have stellar masses $\log _{10}(M_{\ast }/\mathrm{M_{\odot }})\in [10.7, 11.9]$. We derive mock X-ray luminosity (LX, 500) and spectroscopic-like temperature (Tsl, 500) of hot gas within R500 of the ETG haloes using the MOCK-X pipeline. The scaling between LX, 500 and the total mass within 5 effective radii ($M_{5R_{\rm e}}$) agrees well with observed ETGs from Chandra. IllustrisTNG reproduces the observed increase in scatter of LX, 500 towards lower masses, and we find that ETGs with $\log _{10} (M_{5R_{\rm e}}/\mathrm{M_{\odot }}) \leqslant 11.5$ with above-average LX, 500 experienced systematically lower cumulative kinetic AGN feedback energy historically (vice versa for below-average ETGs). This leads to larger gas mass fractions and younger stellar populations with stronger stellar feedback heating, concertedly resulting in the above-average LX, 500. The LX, 500–Tsl, 500 relation shows a similar slope to the observed ETGs but the simulation systematically underestimates the gas temperature. Three outliers that lie far below the LX–Tsl relation all interacted with larger galaxy clusters recently and demonstrate clear features of environmental heating. We propose that the distinct location of these backsplash ETGs in the LX–Tsl plane could provide a new way of identifying backsplash galaxies in future X-ray surveys.
Interferometric apodization by homothety – II. Experimental validation
Authors: Chafi J , El Azhari Y , Azagrouze O , Jabiri A , Boskri A , Benkhaldoun Z , Habib A
Published: November 2023

This work presents the results of experimental laboratory tests on the apodization of circular and rectangular apertures using the Interferometric Apodization by Homothety (IAH) technique. The IAH approach involves splitting the amplitude of the instrumental PSF into two equal parts. One of the two produced PSFs undergoes homothety to change its transverse dimensions while its amplitude is properly controlled. The two PSFs are then combined to produce an apodized image. The diffraction wings of the resulting PSF are subsequently reduced by some variable reduction factor, depending on an amplitude parameter γ and a spread parameter η. This apodization approach was implemented in the laboratory using an interferometric set-up based on the Mach–Zehnder Interferometer (MZI). The experimental results exhibit a strong agreement between theory and experiment. For instance, the average experimental contrast obtained at a low angular separation of 2.4λ/D does not exceed 5 × 10−4. This work also allowed us to study the influence on the apodizer’s performance of some parameters, such as the wavelength and the density of the neutral filters.
Characterization of genes involved in micronutrients and toxic metals detoxification in Brassica napus by genome-wide cDNA library screening
Authors: Peng Jia-Shi , Zhang Xue-Jie , Xiong Jia-Ni , Zhou Ying , Wang Wei-Li , Chen Si-Ying , Zhang Da-Wei , Gu Tian-Yu
Published: November 2023

Stresses caused by deficiency/excess of mineral nutrients or of pollution of toxic metals have already become a primary factor in limiting crop production worldwide. Genes involved in minerals and toxic metals accumulation/tolerance could be potential candidates for improving crop plants with enhanced nutritional efficiency and environmental adaptability. In this study, we first generated a high-quality yeast expression cDNA library of Brassica napus (Westar), and 46 genes mediating excess micronutrients and toxic metals detoxification were screened using the yeast genetic complementation system, including 11, 5, 6, 14, 6, and 5 genes involved in cadmium (Cd), zinc (Zn), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), boron (B), and copper (Cu) tolerance, respectively. Characterization of genes mediating excess ions stress resistance in this study is beneficial for us to further understand ions homeostasis in B. napus.
The Development of Non-affective Psychotic Syndromes in the 19th Century: LeGrand du Saulle and His 1871 Monograph “Le Délire De Persécutions” (Persecutory Delusions)
Authors: Kendler Kenneth S , Justis Virginia
Published: November 2023

While the origins of two of Kraepelin’s three subtypes of dementia praecox (DP), catatonic and hebephrenic, are well understood, no similar clear narrative exists for his concepts of paranoia and paranoid DP, which require a consideration of both German and French sources. An important milestone in the French literature is the massive 524 page monograph entitled “Le Délire Des Persécutions” published in 1871 by Henri Legrand du Saulle which contained extensive, clinically detailed descriptions of a wide range of cases with prominent, organized persecutory delusions. Many of his cases reported auditory hallucinations (AH), and some bizarre, Schneiderian delusions. The delusional content could evolve to include prominent somatic and/or grandiose themes. Using a symptomatic diagnostic framework, Legrand du Saulle proposed that this syndrome represented an independent “species” of mental illness. He sought to give a voice to the affected individuals, including a chapter devoted entirely to their writings. He described several clinically fascinating features of such patients including how often they moved residence to unsuccessfully flee their persecutors and how delusional beliefs could be communicated to spouses and relatives. Unlike Kraepelin, he was little interested in their course of illness or rates of deterioration, except to note that recoveries occurred in 20% of cases. The clinical richness of this work substantially exceeded that in the contemporaneous German literature. Most of the cases described by du Saulle would fit easily into the two major non-affective delusional syndromes articulated 28 years later in Kraepelin’s famous 6th edition of his textbook: paranoia and paranoid DP.
Spontaneous activity in peripheral sensory nerves: a systematic review
Authors: Choi Dongchan , Goodwin George , Stevens Edward B. , Soliman Nadia , Namer Barbara , Denk Franziska
Published: November 2023

In the peripheral nervous system, spontaneous activity in sensory neurons is considered to be one of the 2 main drivers of chronic pain states, alongside neuronal sensitization. Despite this, the precise nature and timing of this spontaneous activity in neuropathic pain is not well-established. Here, we have performed a systematic search and data extraction of existing electrophysiological literature to shed light on which fibre types have been shown to maintain spontaneous activity and over what time frame. We examined both in vivo recordings of preclinical models of neuropathic pain, as well as microneurography recordings in humans. Our analyses reveal that there is broad agreement on the presence of spontaneous activity in neuropathic pain conditions, even months after injury or years after onset of neuropathic symptoms in humans. However, because of the highly specialised nature of the electrophysiological methods used to measure spontaneous activity, there is also a high degree of variability and uncertainty around these results. Specifically, there are very few directly controlled experiments, with less directly comparable data between human and animals. Given that spontaneous peripheral neuron activity is considered to be a key mechanistic feature of chronic pain conditions, it may be beneficial to conduct further experiments in this space.
Reappraisal of Donor Age in Liver Transplantation: NASH as a Potential Target to Safely Utilize Old Liver Grafts
Authors: Kusakabe Jiro , Kozato Akio , Tajima Tetsuya , Bekki Yuki , Fujiki Masato , Tomiyama Koji , Nakamura Tsukasa , Matsushima Hajime , Hashimoto Koji , Sasaki Kazunari
Published: November 2023

Background.

With the chronic shortage of donated organs, expanding the indications for liver transplantation (LT) from older donors is critical. Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) stands out because of its unique systemic pathogenesis and high recurrence rate, both of which might make donor selection less decisive. The present study aims to investigate the usefulness of old donors in LT for NASH patients.

Methods.

The retrospective cohort study was conducted using the Scientific Registry Transplant Recipient database. The cohort was divided into 3 categories according to donor age: young (aged 16–35), middle-aged (36–59), and old donors (60–). Multivariable and Kaplan-Meier analyses were performed to compare the risk of donor age on graft survival (GS).

Results.

A total of 67 973 primary adult donation-after-brain-death LTs (2002–2016) were eligible for analysis. The multivariable analysis showed a reduced impact of donor age on GS for the NASH cohort (adjusted hazard ratio = 1.13, 95% confidence interval, 1.00-1.27), comparing old to middle-aged donors. If the cohort was limited to NASH recipients plus 1 of the following, recipient age ≥60, body mass index <30, or Model of End Stage Liver Disease score <30, adjusted hazard ratios were even smaller (0.99 [0.84–1.15], 0.92 [0.75–1.13], or 1.04 [0.91–1.19], respectively). Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed no significant differences in overall GS between old- and middle-aged donors in these subgroups (P = 0.86, 0.28, and 0.11, respectively).

Conclusions.

Donor age was less influential for overall GS in NASH cohort. Remarkably, old donors were equivalent to middle-aged donors in subgroups of recipient age ≥60, recipient body mass index <30, or Model of End Stage Liver Disease score <30.
Small increases in ambient temperature reduce offspring body mass in an equatorial mammal
Authors: Khera Monil , Arbuckle Kevin , Mwanguhya Francis , Kyabulima Solomon , Mwesige Kenneth , Businge Robert , Blount Jonathan D. , Cant Michael A. , Nichols Hazel J.
Published: November 2023

Human-induced climate change is leading to temperature rises, along with increases in the frequency and intensity of heatwaves. Many animals respond to high temperatures through behavioural thermoregulation, for example by resting in the shade, but this may impose opportunity costs by reducing foraging time (therefore energy supply), and so may be most effective when food is abundant. However, the heat dissipation limit (HDL) theory proposes that even when energy supply is plentiful, high temperatures can still have negative effects. This is because dissipating excess heat becomes harder, which limits processes that generate heat such as lactation. We tested predictions from HDL on a wild, equatorial population of banded mongooses (
Mungos mungo
). In support of the HDL theory, higher ambient temperatures led to lighter pups, and increasing food availability made little difference to pup weight under hotter conditions. This suggests that direct physiological constraints rather than opportunity costs of behavioural thermoregulation explain the negative impact of high temperatures on pup growth. Our results indicate that climate change may be particularly important for equatorial species, which often experience high temperatures year-round so cannot time reproduction to coincide with cooler conditions.
Overcoming the congenitally disadvantageous mutation through adaptation to environmental UV exposure in land snails
Authors: Ito Shun , Chiba Satoshi , Konuma Junji
Published: November 2023

Congenital fitness-disadvantageous mutations are not maintained in the population; they are purged from the population through processes such as purifying selection. However, these mutations could persist in the population as polymorphisms when it is advantageous for the individuals carrying them in adapting to a specific external environment. We tested this hypothesis using the dimorphic land snail
Euhadra peliomphala simodae
in Japan; these snails have dark or bright coloured shells. The survival rate of dark snails at hatching was lower than that of the bright ones, as observed in the F1 progenies produced through crossing. Dark snails have a congenital fitness-disadvantageous mutation; however, they also have protection against ultraviolet radiation. They have a higher survival rate than the bright snails in a UV environment, as observed using the UV exposure experiments and UV transmittance measurements. This is a good example of a congenitally disadvantageous mutation that is advantageous for adapting to the external environment. These results explain the maintenance of polymorphism and highlight the genotypic and phenotypic diversity in the wild population.
Sexual selection for extreme physical performance in a polygynous bird is associated with exceptional sex differences in oxygen carrying capacity
Authors: Santema Peter , Eberhart-Hertel Luke , Valcu Mihai , Kempenaers Bart
Published: November 2023

In many animals, males compete for access to fertile females. The resulting sexual selection leads to sex differences in morphology and behaviour, but may also have consequences for physiology. Pectoral sandpipers are an arctic-breeding polygynous shorebird in which males perform elaborate displays around-the-clock and move over long distances to sample potential breeding sites, implying the need for physiological adaptations to cope with extreme endurance. We examined the oxygen carrying capacity of pectoral sandpipers, measured as the volume percentage of red blood cells in blood (haematocrit, Hct). We found a remarkable sex difference in Hct levels, with males having much higher values (58.9 ± 3.8 s.d.) than females (49.8 ± 5.3 s.d.). While Hct values of male pectoral sandpipers are notable for being among the highest recorded in birds, the sex difference we report is unprecedented and more than double that of any previously described. We also show that Hct values declined after arrival to the breeding grounds in females, but not in males, suggesting that males maintain an aerobic capacity during the mating period equivalent to that sustained during trans-hemispheric migration. We conclude that sexual selection for extreme physical performance in male pectoral sandpipers has led to exceptional sex differences in oxygen carrying capacity.
Mutation divergence over space in tumour expansion
Authors: Li Haiyang , Yang Zixuan , Tu Fengyu , Deng Lijuan , Han Yuqing , Fu Xing , Wang Long , Gu Di , Werner Benjamin , Huang Weini
Published: November 2023

Mutation accumulation in tumour evolution is one major cause of intra-tumour heterogeneity (ITH), which often leads to drug resistance during treatment. Previous studies with multi-region sequencing have shown that mutation divergence among samples within the patient is common, and the importance of spatial sampling to obtain a complete picture in tumour measurements. However, quantitative comparisons of the relationship between mutation heterogeneity and tumour expansion modes, sampling distances as well as the sampling methods are still few. Here, we investigate how mutations diverge over space by varying the sampling distance and tumour expansion modes using individual-based simulations. We measure ITH by the Jaccard index between samples and quantify how ITH increases with sampling distance, the pattern of which holds in various sampling methods and sizes. We also compare the inferred mutation rates based on the distributions of variant allele frequencies under different tumour expansion modes and sampling sizes. In exponentially fast expanding tumours, a mutation rate can always be inferred for any sampling size. However, the accuracy compared with the true value decreases when the sampling size decreases, where small sampling sizes result in a high estimate of the mutation rate. In addition, such an inference becomes unreliable when the tumour expansion is slow, such as in surface growth.
Actinoallomurus soli sp. nov. and Actinoallomurus rhizosphaericola sp. nov., two novel actinobacteria isolated from rhizosphere soil of Oryza rufipogon Griff.
Authors: Chantavorakit Tanatorn , Muangham Supattra , Aaron Teo Wee Fei , Duangmal Kannika , Hong Kui
Published: November 2023

The taxonomic position of two novel

Actinoallomurus

strains isolated from rhizosphere soil of wild rice (Oryza rufipogon Griff.) was established using a polyphasic approach. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that strains WRP6H-15T and WRP9H-5T were closely related to

Actinoallomurus spadix

JCM 3146T and

Actinoallomurus purpureus

TTN02-30T. Chemotaxonomic and morphological characteristics of both strains were consistent with members of the genus

Actinoallomurus

, while phenotypic properties, genome-based comparisons and phylogenomic analyses distinguished strains WRP6H-15T and WRP9H-5T from their closest phylogenetic relatives. The two strains showed nearly identical 16S rRNA gene sequences (99.9 %). Strain WRP6H-15T showed 68.7 % digital DNA–DNA hybridization, 95.9 % average nucleotide identity (ANI) based on blast and 96.4 % ANI based on MUMmer to strain WRP9H-5T. A phylogenomic tree based on draft genome sequences of the strains and representative of the genus

Actinoallomurus

confirmed the phylogenetic relationships. The genomes sizes of strains WRP6H-15T and WRP9H-5T were 9.42 Mb and 9.68 Mb, with DNA G+C contents of 71.5 and 71.3 mol%, respectively. In silico analysis predicted that the strains contain biosynthetic gene clusters encoding for specialized metabolites. Characterization based on chemotaxonomic, phylogenetic, phenotypic and genomic evidence demonstrated that strains WRP6H-15T and WRP9H-5T represent two novel species of the genus

Actinoallomurus

, for which the names Actinoallomurus soli sp. nov. (type strain WRP6H-15T=TBRC 15726T=NBRC 115556T) and Actinoallomurus rhizosphaericola sp. nov. (type strain WRP9H-5T=TBRC 15727T=NBRC 115557T) are proposed.
Microbe Profile: Ehrlichia ruminantium – stealthy as it goes
Authors: Meyer Damien F. , Moumène Amal , Rodrigues Valérie
Published: November 2023

Graphical abstract

Summary of

Ehrlichia ruminantium

infection.

E. ruminantium

bacterium is typically spread to ruminants by bite from infected ticks. Following adhesion of infectious elementary bodies to host cell,

E. ruminantium

establishes the depicted intracellular biphasic lifestyle by the means of secreted effector proteins that hijack host cellular pathways. Replicating bacteria (reticulate bodies) fill a large cytoplasmic vacuole named morula inside mammalian or tick cells. Formation of this vacuole is critical for bacterial development and subsequent lysis of the host cell leading to the establishment of heartwater disease. Genetic diversity is one remarkable and biologically significant feature of pathogens in the

Anaplasmataceae

family, including

E. ruminantium

. The maximum-likelihood phylogenetic tree of four representative species of

Ehrlichia

(

E. chaffeensis

str. Arkansas,

E. canis

str. Jake,

E. muris

AS145,

E. ruminantium

str. Gardel) with

Wolbachia

endosymbiont of D. melanogaster as an outgroup was reconstructed on the basis of concatenated nucleic acid alignment of proteins shared by all species (core genomes) with 100 bootstrap resamplings. Major hosts of these bacteria are indicated. Mb, megabase. ORFs, open reading frames. (All images created by S. Mateus, C. Noroy. O. Gros and D.F. Meyer.)
Global malaria predictors at a localized scale
Authors: Skinner Eloise B. , Childs Marissa L. , Thomas Matthew B. , Cook Jackie , Sternberg Eleanore D. , Koffi Alphonsine A. , N’Guessan Raphael , Wolie Rosine Z. , Oumbouke Welbeck A. , Ahoua Alou Ludovic P. , Brice Serge , Mordecai Erin A.
Published: November 2023

Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused byPlasmodiumparasites transmitted byAnophelesmosquitoes. In 2021, more than 247 million cases of malaria were reported worldwide, with an estimated 619,000 deaths. While malaria incidence has decreased globally in recent decades, some public health gains have plateaued, and many endemic hotspots still face high transmission rates. Understanding local drivers of malaria transmission is crucial but challenging due to the complex interactions between climate, entomological and human variables, and land use. This study focuses on highly climatically suitable and endemic areas in Côte d’Ivoire to assess the explanatory power of coarse climatic predictors of malaria transmission at a fine scale. Using data from 40 villages participating in a randomized controlled trial of a household malaria intervention, the study examines the effects of climate variation over time on malaria transmission. Through panel regressions and statistical modeling, the study investigates which variable (temperature, precipitation, or entomological inoculation rate) and its form (linear or unimodal) best explains seasonal malaria transmission and the factors predicting spatial variation in transmission. The results highlight the importance of temperature and rainfall, with quadratic temperature and all precipitation models performing well, but the causal influence of each driver remains unclear due to their strong correlation. Further, an independent, mechanistic temperature-dependent R0model based on laboratory data aligns well with observed malaria incidence rates, emphasizing the significance and predictability of temperature suitability across scales. By contrast, entomological variables, such as entomological inoculation rate, were not strong predictors of human incidence in this context. Finally, the study explores the predictors of spatial variation in malaria, considering land use, intervention, and entomological variables. The findings contribute to a better understanding of malaria transmission dynamics at local scales, aiding in the development of effective control strategies in endemic regions.
Post-ischemic triiodothyronine treatment improves stroke outcome by stabilizing the blood-brain barrier
Authors: Ullrich Daniel , Führer-Sakel Dagmar , Heuer Heike , Mayerl Steffen , Haupeltshofer Steffen , Schmitt Linda-Isabell , Leo Markus , Hagenacker Tim , Kleinschnitz Christoph , Langhauser Friederike
Published: November 2023

Thyroid hormones control a variety of processes in the central nervous system and influence its response to different stimuli, such as ischemic stroke. Post-stroke administration of triiodothyronine (T3) has been reported to substantially improve outcomes, but the optimal dosage and time window remain elusive. To this end we investigated the consequences of T3 treatment in an experimental model of ischemic stroke in mice. Our research demonstrated a dose-dependent protective effect of T3 by reducing infarct volumes, with the optimal T3 dosage identified as 25 µg/kg. In addition, we observed a time-dependent effectiveness that was most pronounced when T3 was administered 1 h after transient middle cerebral artery occlusion, with a gradual reduction in efficacy at 4.5 h, and no reduction in infarct volumes when T3 was injected with an 8 h delay. This protective effect persisted for 72 h post-tMCAO, and had accelerated the recovery of motor function by day 3. In-depth investigations further revealed stabilization of the blood-brain barrier, indicated by reduced extravasation of Evans Blue and diminished aquaporin-4 expression, with reduced inflammation and less cell death as underlying reasons. Our findings suggest that thyroid hormones may be a promising intervention for clinical stroke.
The unique function of Runx1 in skeletal muscle differentiation and regeneration is mediated by an ETS interaction domain
Authors: Yu Meng , Thorner Konrad , Parameswaran Sreeja , Wei Wei , Yu Chuyue , Lin Xinhua , Kopan Raphael , Hass Matthew R.
Published: November 2023

The conserved Runt-related (RUNX) transcription factor family are well-known master regulators of developmental and regenerative processes.Runx1andRunx2are both expressed in satellite cells (SC) and skeletal myotubes. Conditional deletion ofRunx1in adult SC negatively impacted self-renewal and impaired skeletal muscle maintenance.Runx1-deficient SC retainRunx2expression but cannot support muscle regeneration in response to injury. To determine the unique molecular functions of Runx1 that cannot be compensated by Runx2 we deletedRunx1in C2C12 that retainRunx2expression and established that myoblasts differentiation was blockedin vitrodue in part to ectopic expression ofMef2c,a target repressed byRunx1. Structure-function analysis demonstrated that the Ets-interacting MID/EID region of Runx1, absent from Runx2, is critical to regulating myoblasts proliferation, differentiation, and fusion. Analysis of in-house and published ChIP-seq datasets fromRunx1(T-cells, muscle) versusRunx2(preosteoblasts) dependent tissue identified enrichment for a Ets:Runx composite site inRunx1-dependent tissues. Comparing ATACseq datasets from WT and Runx1KO C2C12 cells showed that the Ets:Runx composite motif was enriched in peaks open exclusively in WT cells compared to peaks unique to Runx1KO cells. Thus, engagement of a set of targets by the RUNX1/ETS complex define the non-redundant functions ofRunx1.
Transcriptional drift in aging cells: A global de-controller
Authors: Matsuzaki Tyler , Weistuch Corey , de Graff Adam , Dill Ken A , Balázsi Gábor
Published: November 2023

As cells age, they undergo a remarkable global change: Intranscriptional drift, hundreds of genes become overexpressed while hundreds of others become underexpressed. Using archetype modeling and Gene Ontology analysis on data from agingCaenorhabditis elegansworms, we find that the upregulated genes code for sensory proteins upstream of stress responses and downregulated genes are growth- and metabolism-related. We propose a simple mechanistic model for how such global coordination of multi-protein expression levels may be achieved by the binding of a single ligand that concentrates with age. A key implication is that a cell’s own responses are part of its aging process, so unlike for wear-and-tear processes, intervention might be able to modulate these effects.
Prevalence of plasmodium infection and associated risk factors among household members in Southern Ethiopia: Mult-site cross-sectional study
Authors: Yutura Girma , Massebo Fekadu , Eligo Nigatu , Kochora Abena , Wegayehu Teklu
Published: November 2023

Despite continuous prevention and control strategies in place, malaria remains a major public health problem in sub-Saharan Africa including Ethiopia. This study is, therefore, aimed to determine the prevalence of plasmodium infection and associated risk factors in selected ruralkebelesin southern Ethiopia. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted between January and June 2019. Mult-stage sampling techniques were employed to select the study districts andkebelesfrom four zones. Blood sample were taken from 1674 participants by finger prick and thin and thick smears were examined by microscopy. Socio-demographic data as well as risk factors for malaria infection were collected using questionnaires. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regressions were used to analyze the data. The overall prevalence of malaria in the study localities was 4.5% (76/1674). The prevalence was varied among the study localities with high prevalence in Bashilo (14.6%; 33/226) followed by Mehal Korga (12.1%; 26/214).Plasmodium falciparumwas the dominant parasite accounted for 65.8% (50/76), whileP. vivaxaccounted 18.4% (14/76). Co-infection ofP. falciparumandP. vivaxwas 15.8% (12/76). The prevalence of malaria was 7.8% (27/346) in age less than 5 years and 7.5% (40/531) in 5-14 years. The age groups >14years were less likely infected with plasmodium parasite (AOR=0.14, 95% CI 0.02-0.82). Asymptomatic individuals more likely had malaria infection (AOR = 28.4, 95% CI 011.4-70.6). Individuals living proximity to mosquito breeding sites have higher malaria infection (AOR = 6.17, 95% CI 2.66 - 14.3). Malaria remains a public health problem in the study localities with lower age group and asymptomatic individuals had higher plasmodium infection. Thus, malaria prevention and control strategies targeting children and asymptomatic cases are crucial to reduce malaria related morbidity and mortality.
Prediction of soil degree of compaction based on machine learning: a case study of two fine-grained soils
Authors: Ran Yuling , Bai Wei , Kong Lingwei , Fan Henghui , Yang Xiujuan , Li Xuemei
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop an appropriate machine learning model for predicting soil compaction degree while also examining the contribution rates of three influential factors: moisture content, electrical conductivity and temperature, towards the prediction of soil compaction degree.

Design/methodology/approach

Taking fine-grained soil A and B as the research object, this paper utilized the laboratory test data, including compaction parameter (moisture content), electrical parameter (electrical conductivity) and temperature, to predict soil degree of compaction based on five types of commonly used machine learning models (19 models in total). According to the prediction results, these models were preliminarily compared and further evaluated.

Findings

The Gaussian process regression model has a good effect on the prediction of degree of compaction of the two kinds of soils: the error rates of the prediction of degree of compaction for fine-grained soil A and B are within 6 and 8%, respectively. As per the order, the contribution rates manifest as: moisture content > electrical conductivity >> temperature.

Originality/value

By using moisture content, electrical conductivity, temperature to predict the compaction degree directly, the predicted value of the compaction degree can be obtained with higher accuracy and the detection efficiency of the compaction degree can be improved.
The dark side of advertising: promoting unhealthy food consumption
Authors: Deshpande Bilwa , Kaur Puneet , Ferraris Alberto , Yahiaoui Dorra , Dhir Amandeep
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Scholars have noted the impact of advertising on unhealthy food consumption. However, a systematic literature review (SLR) on this topic is currently lacking. This study aims to find, analyze and synthesize prior literature to set the stage for future researchers and practitioners. It also uncovers research gaps, suggests potential research questions and presents a conceptual framework for use in future research.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper catalogs and synthesizes topic-related literature by using the time-tested SLR methodology. It identifies and analyzes 99 relevant studies that have addressed the impact of advertising on unhealthy food consumption. Research profiling of the selected studies supported the synthesis of key themes in the extant literature.

Findings

The authors identify three key thematic foci: a) viewer attributes pertaining to excessive unhealthy food consumption, b) advertisement attributes pertaining to excessive unhealthy food consumption and, c) unhealthy food consumption regulation. Within these themes, the authors also identify some subthemes, presenting specific advertising and viewer attributes that contribute to unhealthy food consumption. The authors further develop a conceptual framework based on the stimulus-organism-response (S-O-R) model, summarizing the findings of the study. This could aid future researchers and practitioners in their design of certain strategies.

Research limitations/implications

The study uncovers various gaps in the extant literature and suggests potential areas that can be examined by scholars. From a practical perspective, the study recommends certain actionable strategies for policymakers, helping customers to achieve the long-term goal of obesity reduction.

Practical implications

From the perspective of practice, the study recommends certain actionable strategies for policymakers helping customers achieve the long-term goal of obesity reduction.

Originality/value

The current study makes a novel contribution to the research on advertising and unhealthy food consumption by identifying theme-based research gaps in the existing literature, mapping those with potential research questions and presenting a conceptual framework based on the S-O-R model. Based on the findings, the study also proposes five potential research models examining diverse aspects of advertising and unhealthy food consumption to guide interested scholars and practitioners to shape the future research discourse.
Friend or Foe? A mixed method analysis of YouTube users’ replies to top comments of femvertising
Authors: Chen Huan , Feng Yang
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study aims to investigate replies to the top 10 comments under Always “Like a Girl” YouTube femvertising video to gauge consumers’ responses regarding femvertising as well as relationships among commenters.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopted a mixed research methods design. A user analysis and a qualitative content analysis were conducted to examine the replies of the top 10 comments with the most replies to reveal not only the topics but also relationships and patterns among those comments and commenters.

Findings

The user analysis found that across all the 10 comment-and-reply units, in 8 units, the user of the original primary comment, the conversation starter, was also the user who was targeted most often. The qualitative content analysis revealed four themes from the 10 comment-and-reply units: multilayered emotional responses, a gendered society, complex coexisting relationships and a melting pot.

Research limitations/implications

The findings of this research offer significant extensions to the understanding of public sphere theory within the contemporary digital media landscape. By analyzing the nature of replies to digital advertisements, the study illuminates how various types of user engagement–whether it be inquiry, laudation, debate, or flame–play a critical role in shaping the digital public sphere.

Practical implications

The study underscores the importance for marketers to scrutinize both comments and replies to effectively utilize femvertising on social media, particularly YouTube. By understanding the emotional dynamics of user interactions, marketers can craft strategies that evoke positive responses and mitigate negative ones. Engaging with users who are open to changing their views or mediating discussions can also be beneficial, as can the use of AI tools to maintain focus on the content rather than on individual commenters. Such approaches can enhance the perception of femvertising campaigns and foster a more constructive dialogue within the social media space.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature by investigating the replies of comments, interactions, relationships and patterns among YouTube commenters that may generate valuable insights for advertisers and marketers to be aware of the possible issues and monitor the sentiment of commentaries, thus, developing effective strategies to better connect with consumers. This extends the understanding of public sphere theory in the contemporary digital media landscape.
Inter‐sectoral economic linkages in the Australian mining industry: Analysis using partial hypothetical extraction method
Authors: Weldegiorgis Fitsum S. , Dietsche Evelyn , Ahmad Shabbir , Franks Daniel M. , Cust James
Published: November 2023

The mining industry is not only one of Australia's main economic sectors but also one that the country is considered to have managed well. However, little is known about the industry's potential to contribute to the structural change of Australia's economy. We use the national input–output (IO) tables and apply the partial hypothetical extraction method (P‐HEM) within both the Leontief and Gosh IO frameworks to examine the inter‐sectoral linkages of the Australian mining and quarrying sector. Ee find that this sector demonstrates strong backward linkages (BL), but forward linkages (FL) appear to be weak, and they mainly involve non‐metallic materials. The mining and quarrying sector appears to generate linkages with the business services sector and the construction sector, which can potentially contribute to diversifying the economy. Such linkages may be realised via skilling and reallocating skilled labour and technical supplier capacity as well as via developing physical infrastructure that supports existing and new economic sectors. We find that the identified linkage pathways via the construction sector are tied to energy‐intensive but coal‐dependent sectors. Thus, these pathways are vulnerable because of the climate‐related need to move away from combusting coal and invest in cleaner sources of energy.
‘Real Orthodox men’: religious masculinities and the new Russian culture of military patriotism
Authors: Fomina Victoria
Published: November 2023

Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, radical nationalist and quasi‐fascist movements defining themselves in opposition to the Russian government dominated the country's paramilitary scene. This trend was almost completely reversed in the 2010s, with the relative decline of grassroots Slavic ethno‐nationalism and the emergence of a statist military‐patriotic culture centred on ‘traditional values’ and Orthodox faith. Drawing on field research with members of a Moscow‐based military‐patriotic club, this article shows how Orthodoxy emerged as an attractive ideological framework to give meaning to individual and communal practices of moral and physical self‐cultivation among patriotically oriented young middle‐class men. I argue that rather than a process of militarization of a religious public, the establishment of the Orthodox military‐patriotic milieu in the late 2000s is better understood as the Orthodoxization of the Russian paramilitary sphere, driven by young militaristically minded men's search for a sense of purpose and belonging. This post‐Soviet Orthodox paramilitary scene that combines militant masculinities with promotion of law abidance and civic values effectively works to curtail more extreme forms of ethno‐nationalism and thus invites us to rethink conventional wisdom on the relationship between religion, militarism, and violent radicalization.
Microscopical recognition and characterization of solution dyed fibers
Authors: Brinsko‐Beckert Kelly , Palenik Skip , Abraham Otyllia R. , Groves Ethan , Palenik Christopher S.
Published: November 2023

Solution dyed fibers are synthetic fibers colored through the addition of insoluble pigmentation to the polymer prior to extrusion. This is in contrast to most textile fibers, which are traditionally colored via immersion in liquid dyebaths following extrusion. Solution dyed fibers are increasing in market share in numerous applications (e.g., apparel, carpet, upholstery), and thus, the microscopic characteristics and variety of pigments used to color them represent unexploited properties in forensic fiber comparisons. This paper presents the development of a microscopical process to first recognize a fiber as solution dyed and subsequently characterize the color and optical properties of each type of pigment found in a given fiber. To this end, a set of 76 fibers, representing polypropylene, nylon, polyester, and rayon, spanning all nominal colors and several consumer applications were analyzed longitudinally and in cross section using a combination of polarized light, fluorescence, and oil immersion microscopy. A given fiber contained between one and six different pigments, and a total of 260 pigments (not all unique) were recognized within this set of fibers. Pigment morphologies were categorized as angular, elongated, rounded, finely divided, or streaky, and about 40% of the pigments fluoresced. Ultimately, this body of data is intended to provide trace evidence examiners with a specific approach to recognize and begin to exploit pigmented fibers encountered in casework.
Streptomyces global regulators AfsR and AfsS interact to co‐regulate antibiotic production and morphological development
Authors: Hao Yi , Liu Wenshuai , Li Xingwang , Wen Ying
Published: November 2023

Streptomyces species have a complex life cycle and are the producers of ~70% of commercial antibiotics. Global regulators AfsR and AfsS are widespread among Streptomyces and have been identified as key activators of antibiotic production in several species. However, their roles as repressors of antibiotic production are unclear; in particular, nothing is known regarding the regulatory mechanism of AfsS, despite many decades of research, because it has no DNA‐binding domain. Here, we demonstrate that AfsR and AfsS negatively regulate avermectin production and morphological development in the industrially important species S. avermitilis. AfsR directly represses ave structural genes (aveA1, aveA4), cluster‐situated activator gene aveR, and eight key developmental genes, whereas it directly activates afsS, aco (for autoregulator avenolide biosynthesis), and avaR1 (encoding avenolide receptor). GST pull‐down, microscale thermophoresis, co‐immunoprecipitation, and chromatin immunoprecipitation‐quantitative PCR assays demonstrated that AfsS interacts with AfsR to co‐regulate target genes involved in avermectin production and development and that this interaction requires intact AfsS repeated sequences and enhances the binding affinity of AfsR to target promoters. AfsR/AfsS interaction also occurs in model species S. coelicolor and S. roseosporus (producer of daptomycin, a cyclic lipopeptide antibiotic widely used for the treatment of human infections), suggesting that such interaction is conserved in Streptomyces species. The master developmental repressor BldD acts as a direct activator of both afsR and afsS. Deletion of afsR or afsS strongly enhances avermectin production in wild‐type and industrial S. avermitilis strains. Our findings demonstrate novel regulatory roles and mechanisms of AfsR and AfsS in Streptomyces and facilitate methods for antibiotic overproduction.
The new audit report with key audit matters: Lessons from Thailand's first implementation
Authors: Kitiwong Weerapong , Ekasingh Erboon , Sarapaivanich Naruanard
Published: November 2023

Using a mixed method research design, this study is the first to provide comprehensive evidence of the impacts of Thailand's first implementation of the new audit report with key audit matters (KAMs), which took place in 2016. Survey evidence shows that the new audit report improves the informative value and effectively narrows the deficient‐standards and deficient‐performance gaps. Nonetheless, financial statement users have made new demands for information that lie beyond auditors' traditional responsibility. Moreover, marginally significant evidence from archival data shows that although the disclosure of KAMs increases audit fees and audit delays, it improves audit quality. However, the market does not value KAMs.
Microstructural characterization of the skin in the African straw‐coloured fruit bat, Eidolon helvum (Pteropodidae)
Authors: Peter‐Ajuzie Iheanyi Kemdirim , Chukwu Hannah Sarah , Igbokwe Casmir Onwuaso
Published: November 2023

The African straw‐coloured fruit Bat, Eidolon helvum, is a Yinpterochiroptera bat that is of public health and ecological importance. This study investigated the light microscopic morphology, morphometry and histochemistry of the skin and its glands across the cheek, withers, croup, ventral abdomen, perianal region, wing membrane, intercrural membrane and foot pad of the species. Sweat glands were absent and hypodermis was observed only in the withers, croup and ventral abdomen. The croup had the highest density of hair follicles while the perianal region had the highest density of sebaceous gland acini. The thicknesses of the dermis and epidermis were significantly high in the withers and foot pad respectively. Hair follicles and sebaceous glands were absent in the wing membrane. The sebaceous glands had melanin pigmentation at the periphery and stained positive to Alcian Blue‐periodic acid Schiff at the withers and ventral abdomen. Epidermal and dermal thicknesses reported in this study were generally higher than those of Yangochiroptera bats and the presence of sebaceous glands and hair follicles in the wing membrane were variable in different bat species. This study has provided baseline information on the light microscopic morphology and morphometry of the skin and its glands across the various body regions in the African straw‐coloured fruit bat. This information would be helpful in the understanding, handling, skin disease treatment and management of the bat in captivity for biomedical research purposes.
Efficacy and safety of abrocitinib in patients with moderate‐to‐severe atopic dermatitis and comorbid allergies
Authors: Schmid‐Grendelmeier Peter , Gooderham Melinda J. , Hartmann Karin , Konstantinou George N. , Fellmann Marc , Koulias Christopher , Clibborn Claire , Biswas Pinaki , Brunner Patrick M.
Published: November 2023

Background

Abrocitinib efficacy by comorbidity status in patients with moderate‐to‐severe atopic dermatitis (AD) has not been previously assessed. This post hoc analysis evaluated the efficacy and safety of abrocitinib in patients with AD and allergic comorbidities.

Methods

Data were pooled from patients who received abrocitinib 200 mg, 100 mg, or placebo in phase 2b (NCT02780167) and phase 3 (NCT03349060, NCT03575871) monotherapy trials. Patients with and without allergic comorbidities (allergic asthma, rhinitis, conjunctivitis, or food allergy) were evaluated for Investigator's Global Assessment (IGA) response (clear [0] or almost clear [1]), ≥75% improvement in the Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI‐75), ≥4‐point improvement in Peak Pruritus Numerical Rating Scale (PP‐NRS4), and Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) response (<2 with baseline score ≥2). Other outcomes were Patient‐Oriented Eczema Measure (POEM), SCORing Atopic Dermatitis (SCORAD), Pruritus and Symptoms Assessment for Atopic Dermatitis (PSAAD), and treatment‐emergent adverse events (TEAEs).

Results

Of 942 patients, 498 (53%) reported at least one allergic comorbidity (asthma only, 33%; conjunctivitis only or rhinitis only or both, 17%; food allergies only, 15%; >1 allergic comorbidity, 34%). Regardless of comorbidity status, from Week 2 to Week 12, higher percentages of patients treated with either abrocitinib dose achieved IGA 0/1, EASI‐75, PP‐NRS4, or DLQI 0/1 versus placebo‐treated patients. Changes from baseline in POEM, SCORAD, and PSAAD were greater with abrocitinib than with placebo in patients with and without allergic comorbidities. Most TEAEs were mild or moderate.

Conclusions

Efficacy and safety data support abrocitinib use to manage AD in patients with or without allergic comorbidities.