bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Misconceptions about COVID-19 vaccine among adults in Saudi Arabia and their associated factors: A cross-sectional study conducted in 2021
Authors: I. Albeladi Fatma , A. Kubbara Eman , A. Bakarman Marwan , Al Amri Turki , Eid Rasha , Alyazidi Najla , Alkhamesi Ameera , Alasslany Atheer
Published: December 2023

Background It is of utmost importance for the elements that influence public compliance with vaccination against COVID-19 to be assessed, including misconceptions, rumors, and conspiracy theories. Hence, in this study, we aimed to estimate the distribution of the most common misconceptions regarding COVID-19 vaccines and their predictors in Saudi Arabia. Methods We distributed an online questionnaire to participants aged 18 years or older. The survey included two sections. The first section comprised questions related to participants’ demographic characteristics, level of education, and their sources of information about COVID-19. The second section assessed participants’ perceptions regarding 11 of the most common misconceptions regarding COVID-19 vaccines, rated using a 5-point Likert scale. Using ordinal logistic regression, we conducted an evaluation of the relationships among different predictors including age, sex, educational level, and sources of information, as well as acceptance of misconceptions about vaccination. Results The most widely accepted misconception was that the COVID-19 vaccine had severe side effects, with 34.8% of participants believing this misinformation. Factors that were significantly associated with acceptance or non- acceptance of misconceptions were: 1) sex, with female respondents in this survey accepting rumors significantly more often than male respondents (p<0.001); 2) educational level, especially secondary school, was associated with a significantly lower acceptance of misconceptions (p=0.001). In total, 60.5% of participants used social media as their primary source of information, which was also a significant positive predictor of acceptance of misconceptions (p=0.034). Conclusion It is of critical importance to increase assurance regarding the safety of COVID-19 vaccines, the issue most likely to involve misconceptions, and to address the elements that affect belief in rumors among the population.
Management of evidence and conflict of interest in guidelines on early childhood allergy prevention and child nutrition: study protocol of a systematic synthesis of guidelines and explorative network analysis
Authors: Sieferle Katharina , Schaefer Corinna , Bitzer Eva Maria
Published: December 2023

Background With the rising prevalence of allergic diseases in children, prevention of childhood allergies becomes an important public health issue. Recently, a paradigm shift is taking place in the approach to preventing allergies, and clinical practice guidelines (CPG) and food-based dietary guidelines (FBDG) play an important role in providing practitioners with the latest evidence and reliable guidance. However, concern about the methodological quality of the development of FBDGs and CPGs, including limitations in the systematic reviews, lack of transparency and unmanaged conflicts of interest (COI), reduce the trust in these guidelines. Methods We aim to synthesize the available guidance on early childhood allergy prevention (ECAP) through a systematic search for national and international CPGs and FBDGs concerning ECAP and child nutrition (CN) and to assess the quality of the guidelines and management of COI. Additionally, we will analyse the content and the evidence base of the recommendation statements. We aim to quantify the COI in guideline panellists and explore possible associations between COI and recommendations. Through a social network analysis, we expect to elucidate ties between panellists, researchers, institutions, industry and other sponsors. Guidelines are an important tool to inform healthcare practitioners with the newest evidence, but quality and reliability have to be high. This study will help identify potential for further improvement in the development of guidelines and the management of COI. If the social network analysis proves feasible and reveals more information on COI in comparison to disclosed COI from the previous analyses, the methodology can be developed further to identify undisclosed COIs in panelists. Ethics and dissemination This research does not require ethical approval because no human subjects are involved. Results will be published in international peer-reviewed open access journals and via presentations at scientific conferences.
Case Report: Multiple atherosclerotic plaques at its extreme in synchrony
Authors: Toshniwal Saket , Sahai Isha , Ghosh Benumadhab , Chaturvedi Anuj , Agrawal Gajendra , Acharya Sourya , Kumar Sunil , Khadse Satish , Khurana Kashish
Published: December 2023

Peripheral artery (PAD) disease in association with renal artery stenosis is an important association which predicts the severity of the disease. An increase in the number of vessels affected by peripheral artery disease increases the chances of renal artery stenosis. In our case, the patient had primarily presented with anginal chest pain with complaints of claudication which on further investigation was diagnosed to be a triple vessel coronary artery disease along with bilateral subclavian and bilateral renal stenosis. On detailed history taking, risk factors like hypertension and chronic smoking was found to be present in our case which predisposed to peripheral artery disease secondary to atherosclerosis which was diagnosed on further investigations. Although the association of renal artery stenosis is not very rare in cases of severe peripheral vascular diseases, the presence of a triple vessel coronary artery disease in synchrony is what makes it unique. Take away lesson from this case report is importance of early diagnosis of dyslipidemia causing atherosclerosis and its complications. Multiple atherosclerotic lesions in synchrony i.e, bilateral renal artery stenosis with bilateral subclavian artery stenosis with coronary artery triple vessel atherosclerotic disease like in our case and its severity should create awareness among health care individuals and early treatment measures including lifestyle modifications should be considered to avoid such drastic events.
La seguridad y salud laboral de las personas teletrabajadoras en España y Portugal / The occupational health and safety of the teleworkers in Spain and Portugal.
Authors: Lozano Lares Francisco , Zenha Martins João
Published: December 2023

Debido a la inaplicabilidad del principio de seguridad integrada en el ámbito del teletrabajo, es necesario establecer unas normas especiales de seguridad y salud laboral que protejan adecuadamente a las personas teletrabajadoras frente a los riesgos laborales derivados del uso intensivo de las nuevas tecnologías digitales. En relación con los riesgos ergonómicos y organizativos es necesario atender al diseño, características y ubicación de los medios digitales, así como a la distribución de la jornada, los tiempos de disponibilidad y los períodos de descanso y desconexión durante la jornada. La evaluación y control de las condiciones de ejecución del teletrabajo hace también necesaria la regulación de las fórmulas de acceso a los lugares donde este se realice de facto, evitando las posibles interferencias en la intimidad del hogar familiar, si el teletrabajo se realiza a domicilio, y teniendo en cuenta la movilidad de las personas teletrabajadoras nómadas. Resulta crucial asimismo el reconocimiento y regulación del derecho a la desconexión digital y su tratamiento prioritario como una manifestación del derecho de los trabajadores a la seguridad y salud laboral.
How Does a Firm Adapt in a Changing World? The Case of Prosper Marketplace
Authors: Li Xinlong , Ching Andrew T.
Published: December 2023

We propose a generalized revealed preference approach to infer how agents use past data to adapt in a changing environment.
Learning-Augmented Mechanism Design: Leveraging Predictions for Facility Location
Authors: Agrawal Priyank , Balkanski Eric , Gkatzelis Vasilis , Ou Tingting , Tan Xizhi
Published: December 2023

In this work, we introduce an alternative model for the design and analysis of strategyproof mechanisms that is motivated by the recent surge of work in “learning-augmented algorithms.” Aiming to complement the traditional worst-case analysis approach in computer science, this line of work has focused on the design and analysis of algorithms that are enhanced with machine-learned predictions. The algorithms can use the predictions as a guide to inform their decisions, aiming to achieve much stronger performance guarantees when these predictions are accurate (consistency), while also maintaining near-optimal worst-case guarantees, even if these predictions are inaccurate (robustness). We initiate the design and analysis of strategyproof mechanisms that are augmented with predictions regarding the private information of the participating agents. To exhibit the important benefits of this approach, we revisit the canonical problem of facility location with strategic agents in the two-dimensional Euclidean space. We study both the egalitarian and utilitarian social cost functions, and we propose new strategyproof mechanisms that leverage predictions to guarantee an optimal trade-off between consistency and robustness. Furthermore, we also prove parameterized approximation results as a function of the prediction error, showing that our mechanisms perform well, even when the predictions are not fully accurate.

Funding: The work of E. Balkanski was supported in part by the National Science Foundation [Grants CCF-2210501 and IIS-2147361]. The work of V. Gkatzelis and X. Tan was supported in part by the National Science Foundation [Grant CCF-2210502] and [CAREER Award CCF-2047907].
Wider horizons
Authors: Goldenberg Gemma
Published: December 2023

A panel of education and early years experts discussed what the sector can gain from the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme. By Gemma Goldenberg
Evaluation of Machine Learning Algorithms for Air Quality Index (AQI) Prediction
Authors: Pant Alka , Sharma Sanjay , Pant Kamal
Published: December 2023

The Air Quality Index (AQI) has been deteriorated due to the growth of industry and automobiles in many regions of India. Artificial intelligence and machine learning have greatly benefited the ability to predict air quality. This paper aims to know the status of air pollutants (PM10, PM2.5, SO2, and NO2) monitored in different cities of Uttarakhand State (India) and the Air Quality Index (AQI) using the Python language (Jupyter Notebook). The air quality index dataset has used six machine-learning algorithms (Logistic Regression, Naive Bayes, Random Forest, Support Vector Machine, K-Nearest Neighbors, and Decision Tree). These machine-learning algorithms have been evaluated based on precision, recall, accuracy, etc. The result shows that Random Forest and Decision Tree algorithms outperformed each other and achieved the highest accuracy, i.e., 99.0%. Further, the air quality index (AQI) values have also been predicted and compared to actual values using the random forest algorithm.
Reliability Analysis with New Sine Inverse Rayleigh Distribution
Authors: David Ikwuoche John , Stephen Mathew , Thomas Eghwerido Joseph
Published: December 2023

This article examined some of the characteristics of the New Sine Inverse Rayleigh Distribution. There is just one scale parameter in the New Sine Inverse Rayleigh distribution. The raw moments, reliability analysis, and other aspects of the New Sine Inverse Rayleigh Distribution have been derived. The maximum likelihood approach was used to estimate the New Sine Inverse Rayleigh Distribution’s parameters. Utilizing simulation, the distribution’s stability was examined, and the applicability of the distribution was demonstrated using three data sets. The analysis’s findings demonstrated that the New Sine Inverse Rayleigh Distribution behaves well and fits the data more closely than other probability distributions.
Integrated waveguide coupled ultralow-loss multimode waveguides based on silicon nitride resonators
Authors: Cui Shuai , Yu Yuan , Cao Kaixiang , Pan Zhao , Gao Xiaoyan , Zhang Xinliang
Published: December 2023

On-chip micro-ring resonators (MRRs) with low loss and large free spectral ranges (FSRs) are important for photonic devices. So far, ultra-low-loss silicon-nitride (Si3N4) waveguides are primarily fabricated in laboratories, as they often demand special processes to reduce transmission losses. While, Si3N4 waveguides fabricated by the standard multi-project wafer (MPW)-based processes often suffer from significant sidewall scattering, resulting in high scattering losses. Here, we present an innovative approach to photonics by introducing a compact and multi-mode structure. This approach significantly reduces the contact between the optical field and the rough sidewalls in the high-confinement Si3N4 waveguide. By incorporating modified Euler bends, and a weakly tapered gap directional coupler, adiabatic transmission with simultaneous ultra-low loss and compact size is achieved even in 7-µm wide waveguide. Results show that the intrinsic quality factor Qi of MRR is (6.8 ± 0.4) × 106 at the wavelength of 1550 nm, which is approximately four times higher than the previously reported by the same fabrication process. An ultra-low loss of 0.051 ± 0.003 dB/cm is achieved based on the standard LIGENTEC-AN800 technology. This accomplishment addresses a critical challenge in high-confinement waveguides. Our work provides new insights into the low propagation loss in Si3N4 waveguides and provides a broader prospect for integrated photonics in the ultra-high-Q regime.
Simultaneous detection of polarization states and wavefront by an angular variant micro-retarder-lens array
Authors: Wakayama Toshitaka , Zama Akane , Higuchi Yudai , Takahashi Yuta , Aizawa Kohei , Higashiguchi Takeshi
Published: December 2023

We have demonstrated simultaneous detection of the polarization states and wavefront of light using a 7 × 7 array of angular variant micro-retarder-lenses. Manipulating the angular variant polarization with our optical element allows us to determine the two-dimensional distribution of polarization states. We have also proposed a calibration method for polarization measurements using our micro-retarder-lens array, allowing accurate detection of polarization states with an ellipticity of ± 0.01 and an azimuth of ± 1.0°. We made wavefront measurements using the micro-retarder-lens array, achieving a resolution of 25 nm. We conducted simultaneous detection of the polarization states and wavefront on four types of structured beam as samples. The results show that the two-dimensional distributions of the polarization states and wavefront for the four types of structured light are radially and azimuthally polarized beams, as well as left- and right-hand optical vortices. Our sensing technology has the potential to enhance our understanding of the nature of light in the fields of laser sciences, astrophysics, and even ophthalmology.
Dual phase-detected infrared photothermal microscopy
Authors: Park Chanjong , Cho Minhaeng
Published: December 2023

Infrared photothermal microscopy (IPM) has recently gained considerable attention as a versatile analytical platform capable of providing spatially resolved molecular insights across diverse research fields. This technique has led to numerous breakthroughs in the study of compositional variations in functional materials and cellular dynamics in living cells. However, its application to investigate multiple components of temporally dynamic systems, such as living cells and operational devices, has been hampered by the limited information content of the IP signal, which only covers a narrow spectral window (< 1 cm-1). Here, we present a straightforward approach for measuring two distinct IPM images utilizing the orthogonality between the in-phase and quadrature outputs of a lock-in amplifier, called dual-phase IR photothermal (DP-IP) detection. We demonstrate the feasibility of DP-IP detection for IPM in distinguishing two different micro-sized polymer beads.
Manipulating polarization effect in nonsequential double ionization
Authors: Wei MingZheng , Kang HuiPeng , XiaoJun Liu HuiPeng
Published: December 2023

We report on a theoretical study of nonsequential double ionization (NSDI) of magnesium atoms by using combined linearly and circularly polarized fields. By employing a concise model including the dynamic ionic dipole potential, we show that the polarization effects can be controlled by tuning the subcycle waveform of the electric field of the two-color pulses. We demonstrate that the influence of the dipole potential on NSDI depends on the symmetry of two-color laser fields by tracing back the electron trajectories. Furthermore, we propose a method allowing for manipulating the returning trajectories with the initial direction of the tunneled electrons almost unchanged.
Microsphere photolithography with dynamic angular spectra control for metasurface fabrication
Authors: Zhu Chen , Salinas-Sáenz Sergio , Khadka Nishan , Kinzel Edward
Published: December 2023

Microsphere photolithography (MPL) is a promising technique for cost-effective fabrication of large-scale metasurfaces. This approach generates an array of photonic jets by the collimated illumination of self-assembled microspheres. The photonic jets can be precisely steered within the unit cell defined by each microsphere by changing the angle of incidence. This allows for the creation of complex metasurface element geometries. Computer controlled articulation of the substrate relative to a static UV source allows the direct-write of different metasurface elements. However, this is time-consuming and requires registration between each exposure for complex features. This paper investigates a single exposure method with the dynamic continuous angle of incidence control provided by a Digital Micromirror Device (DMD) in the front Fourier plane of the projection system. The grayscale values of the DMD pixels can be adjusted to provide optical proximity correction. Larger patterns can be achieved by scanning the substrate relative to the exposure beam. This approach is demonstrated with the creation of hierarchical patterns. This work greatly simplifies the MPL exposure process for complex resonators and provides potential for full light field control.
Multifunctional graphene metamaterials based on polarization-insensitive plasmon-induced transparency
Authors: Tao Liangyu , Deng Xin-Hua , Zhang Pingsheng , Lu Ming , Yuan Jiren
Published: December 2023

In this paper, a 4L-shaped graphene patterned polarization-insensitive plasmon-induced transparency (PIT) metamaterial structure is proposed. The photoelectric switch based on this structure supports a variety of light sources, such as linearly polarized light with different polarization directions, left rotation circularly polarized light (LCP) and right rotation circularly polarized light (RCP). And the switch has excellent performance in the case of different light sources, the amplitude modulation is as high as 99.01%, and the insertion loss is as low as 0.04 dB. In addition, the PIT metamaterial has a high refractive index sensitivity of up to 49156 nm/RIU. The group index of the PIT metamaterial is as high as 980, which can achieve excellent slow light effect. This study provides a scheme and guidance for the design of optoelectronic devices.
A computational model of Pseudomonas syringae metabolism unveils a role for branched-chain amino acids in Arabidopsis leaf colonization
Authors: Tubergen Philip J. , Medlock Greg , Moore Anni , Zhang Xiaomu , Papin Jason A. , Danna Cristian H.
Published: December 2023

Bacterial pathogens adapt their metabolism to the plant environment to successfully colonize their hosts. In our efforts to uncover the metabolic pathways that contribute to the colonization of Arabidopsis thaliana leaves by Pseudomonas syringae pv tomato DC3000 (Pst DC3000), we created iPst19, an ensemble of 100 genome-scale network reconstructions of Pst DC3000 metabolism. We developed a novel approach for gene essentiality screens, leveraging the predictive power of iPst19 to identify core and ancillary condition-specific essential genes. Constraining the metabolic flux of iPst19 with Pst DC3000 gene expression data obtained from naïve-infected or pre-immunized-infected plants, revealed changes in bacterial metabolism imposed by plant immunity. Machine learning analysis revealed that among other amino acids, branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) metabolism significantly contributed to the overall metabolic status of each gene-expression-contextualized iPst19 simulation. These predictions were tested and confirmed experimentally. Pst DC3000 growth and gene expression analysis showed that BCAAs suppress virulence gene expression in vitro without affecting bacterial growth. In planta, however, an excess of BCAAs suppress the expression of virulence genes at the early stages of infection and significantly impair the colonization of Arabidopsis leaves. Our findings suggesting that BCAAs catabolism is necessary to express virulence and colonize the host. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into how plant immunity impacts Pst DC3000 metabolism, and how bacterial metabolism impacts the expression of virulence.
Metric information in cognitive maps: Euclidean embedding of non-Euclidean environments
Authors: Baumann Tristan , Mallot Hanspeter A.
Published: December 2023

The structure of the internal representation of surrounding space, the so-calledcognitive map, has long been debated. A Euclidean metric map is the most straight-forward hypothesis, but human navigation has been shown to systematically deviate from the Euclidean ground truth. Vector navigation based on non-metric models can better explain the observed behavior, but also discards useful geometric properties such as fast shortcut estimation and cue integration.

Here, we propose another alternative, a Euclidean metric map that is systematically distorted to account for the observed behavior. The map is found by embedding the non-metric model, a labeled graph, into 2D Euclidean coordinates. We compared these two models using data from a human behavioral study where participants had to learn and navigate a non-Euclidean maze (i.e., with wormholes) and perform direct shortcuts between different locations. Even though the Euclidean embedding cannot correctly represent the non-Euclidean environment, both models predicted the data equally well. We argue that the embedding naturally arises from integrating the local position information into a metric framework, which makes the model more powerful and robust than the non-metric alternative. It may therefore be a better model for the human cognitive map.
Water and war: The effect of functioning chlorinated water stations in reducing waterborne diseases during conflict in northwest Syria, 2017–2021
Authors: Haar Rohini , Abdelrahman Sarah , Muzzall Evan , Aladhan Ibrahim , Shobak Kasim , Kawas Mohamad Rami , Aksh Aya , Blair Alden Hooper , Reingold Arthur , AlMhawish Naser
Published: December 2023

Since 2011, Syria has been engulfed in a complex conflict marked by both targeted and indiscriminate attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure. Water infrastructure has been continuously targeted, exacerbating problems with contamination of and access to clean adequate drinking water, and increasing the risk of waterborne diseases. We aimed to determine whether having access to more functional and chlorinated water stations is associated with a reduced risk of waterborne disease in northwest Syria. We examined the effect of functioning chlorinated water stations on the incidence of waterborne disease in 10 districts of Northwest Syria between January 1, 2017, and June 30, 2021, using weekly reported disease surveillance data and data from a water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) system evaluation program of the Assistance Coordination Unit (ACU). We ran eight negative binomial models to examine the association between functioning chlorinated water stations and the incidence of four of the five waterborne diseases: acute bloody diarrhea (ABD), acute other diarrhea (AOD), acute jaundice syndrome (AJS), and severe typhoid fever (STF). Dose-response models were used to investigate how the incidence of disease can theoretically be reduced as functioning and chlorinated water stations strategically increase. Compared to areas with lower quintiles of functioning and chlorinated water stations, the rates of the four waterborne diseases were lower in areas with higher quintiles of functioning and chlorinated water stations. Exposure to functioning water stations had a stronger association with lower rates of waterborne diseases than exposure to chlorinated water stations. Dose-response models demonstrate a potential for curbing the incidence of acute diarrhea and acute jaundice syndrome. The results of this study provide an understanding of the effects of water station functionality and chlorination in conflict settings. These findings support greater prioritization of WASH activities in countries experiencing violence against civilian infrastructure.
Are brain displacements and pressures within the parenchyma induced by surface pressure differences? A computational modelling study
Authors: Piersanti Eleonora , Rognes Marie E. , Vinje Vegard
Published: December 2023

The intracranial pressure is implicated in many homeostatic processes in the brain and is a fundamental parameter in several diseases such as e.g. idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus. The presence of a small but persistent pulsatile intracranial pulsatile transmantle pressure gradient (on the order of a few mmHg/m at peak) has recently been demonstrated in hydrocephalus subjects. A key question is whether pulsatile intracranial pressure and displacements can be induced by a small pressure gradient originating from the brain surface alone. In this study, we model the brain parenchyma as either a linearly elastic or a poroelastic medium, and impose a pulsatile pressure gradient acting between the ventricular and the pial surfaces but no additional external forces. Using this high-resolution physics-based model, we use in vivo pulsatile pressure gradients from subjects with idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus to compute parenchyma displacement, volume change, fluid pressure, and fluid flux. The resulting displacement field is pulsatile and in qualitatively and quantitatively good agreement with the literature, both with elastic and poroelastic models. However, the pulsatile forces on the boundaries are not sufficient for pressure pulse propagation through the brain parenchyma. Our results suggest that pressure differences at the brain surface, originating e.g. from pulsating arteries surrounding the brain, are not alone sufficient to drive interstitial fluid flow within the brain parenchyma and that potential pressure gradients found within the parenchyma rather arise from a large portion of the blood vessel network, including smaller blood vessels within the brain parenchyma itself.
Comparison of devices used to measure blood pressure, grip strength and lung function: A randomised cross-over study
Authors: Lessof Carli , Cooper Rachel , Wong Andrew , Bendayan Rebecca , Caleyachetty Rishi , Cheshire Hayley , Cosco Theodore , Elhakeem Ahmed , Hansell Anna L. , Kaushal Aradhna , Kuh Diana , Martin David , Minelli Cosetta , Muthuri Stella , Popham Maria , Shaheen Seif O. , Sturgis Patrick , Hardy Rebecca
Published: December 2023

Background

Blood pressure, grip strength and lung function are frequently assessed in longitudinal population studies, but the measurement devices used differ between studies and within studies over time. We aimed to compare measurements ascertained from different commonly used devices.

Methods

We used a randomised cross-over study. Participants were 118 men and women aged 45–74 years whose blood pressure, grip strength and lung function were assessed using two sphygmomanometers (Omron 705-CP and Omron HEM-907), four handheld dynamometers (Jamar Hydraulic, Jamar Plus+ Digital, Nottingham Electronic and Smedley) and two spirometers (Micro Medical Plus turbine and ndd Easy on-PC ultrasonic flow-sensor) with multiple measurements taken on each device. Mean differences between pairs of devices were estimated along with limits of agreement from Bland-Altman plots. Sensitivity analyses were carried out using alternative exclusion criteria and summary measures, and using multilevel models to estimate mean differences.

Results

The mean difference between sphygmomanometers was 3.9mmHg for systolic blood pressure (95% Confidence Interval (CI):2.5,5.2) and 1.4mmHg for diastolic blood pressure (95% CI:0.3,2.4), with the Omron HEM-907 measuring higher. For maximum grip strength, the mean difference when either one of the electronic dynamometers was compared with either the hydraulic or spring-gauge device was 4-5kg, with the electronic devices measuring higher. The differences were small when comparing the two electronic devices (difference = 0.3kg, 95% CI:-0.9,1.4), and when comparing the hydraulic and spring-gauge devices (difference = 0.2kg, 95% CI:-0.8,1.3). In all cases limits of agreement were wide. The mean difference in FEV1 between spirometers was close to zero (95% CI:-0.03,0.03), limits of agreement were reasonably narrow, but a difference of 0.47l was observed for FVC (95% CI:0.53,0.42), with the ndd Easy on-PC measuring higher.

Conclusion

Our study highlights potentially important differences in measurement of key functions when different devices are used. These differences need to be considered when interpreting results from modelling intra-individual changes in function and when carrying out cross-study comparisons, and sensitivity analyses using correction factors may be helpful.
Early childhood trajectories of domain-specific developmental delay and gestational age at birth: An analysis of the All Our Families cohort
Authors: Stephenson Nikki L. , Tough Suzanne , Williamson Tyler , McDonald Sheila , McMorrris Carly , Metcalfe Amy
Published: December 2023

Objective

To describe developmental domain-specific trajectories from ages 1 through 5 years and to estimate the association of trajectory group membership with gestational age for children born between ≥34 and <41 weeks gestation.

Methods

Using data from the All Our Families cohort, trajectories of the domain-specific Ages & Stages Questionnaire scores were identified and described using group-based trajectory modeling for children born ≥34 and <41 weeks of gestation (n = 2664). The trajectory groups association with gestational age was estimated using multinomial logistic regression.

Results

Across the five domains, 4–5 trajectory groups were identified, and most children experienced changing levels of risk for delay over time. Decreasing gestational age increases the Relative risk of delays in fine motor (emerging high risk: 1.46, 95% CI: 1.19–1.80; resolving moderate risk: 1.11, 95% CI: 1.03–1.21) and gross motor (resolving high risk: 1.21, 95% CI: 1.04–1.42; and consistent high risk: 1.64, 95% CI: 1.20–2.24) and problem solving (consistent high risk: 1.58 (1.09–2.28) trajectory groups compared to the consistent low risk trajectory groups.

Conclusion

This study highlights the importance of longitudinal analysis in understanding developmental processes; most children experienced changing levels of risk of domain-specific delay over time instead of having a consistent low risk pattern. Gestational age had differential effects on the individual developmental domains after adjustment for social, demographic and health factors, indicating a potential role of these factors on trajectory group membership.
Dexamethasone restores TNFα-induced epithelial barrier dysfunction in primary rat alveolar epithelial cells
Authors: Kutsuzawa Naokata , Ito Yoko , Kagawa Shizuko , Kohno Chinatsu , Takiguchi Hiroto , Asano Koichiro
Published: December 2023

Alveolar barrier dysfunction is one of the major pathophysiological changes in acute lung injury (ALI)/acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). In ALI/ARDS, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα) disrupts the barriers of alveolar epithelium and endothelium. Glucocorticoids (GCs) exert anti-inflammatory effects and ameliorate pulmonary edema in ALI/ARDS. However, the involvement of GCs in the restoration of alveolar epithelial barrier dysfunction has not been extensively studied. Here, we elucidated that dexamethasone (Dex) restored TNFα-induced alveolar epithelial barrier dysfunction in vitro using primary rat alveolar epithelial cells isolated from Sprague–Dawley rats. Moreover, Dex promoted the alveolar epithelial cell barrier integrity by initiating GC receptor-mediated signaling via the downregulation of myosin light chain kinase (MLCK) expression and the dephosphorylation of myosin light chain (MLC) 2. Further investigation revealed that Dex enhanced the expression of zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1), a tight junction-related protein, at intercellular junction sites. These findings suggest that GCs strengthen the integrity of the alveolar epithelial barrier in ALI/ARDS via the GR-MLCK-pMLC2 axis.
Mimes of the past: Eocene midges of the tribe Pseudochironomini (Chironomidae, Diptera) reveal their peculiarities
Authors: Zakrzewska Marta , Andersen Trond , Giłka Wojciech
Published: December 2023

This is the first study focused on Eocene dipterans of the tribe Pseudochironomini (subfamily Chironominae, family Chironomidae), based on unique materials from Baltic amber. Two new genera and three new species:Eomicromimusgen. nov.withEomicromimus polliciformissp. nov.andEomicromimus serpenssp. nov., andEoriethiagen. nov.withEoriethia ursipessp. nov.are presented. The systematic position of the new taxa is discussed, and an amended key to the identification of adult males of extinct and extant Pseudochironomini genera is provided. The presented analysis of the morphology of the tribe’s fossil members allowed us to verify the concepts regarding the origin/homology of male diagnostic structures crucial in defining new taxa, their phylogeny, and to consolidate the terminology used in chironomid research. A new habitual name for Chironomidae, “mime midges”, is also proposed.
Influencing factors of falls among older adults in Chinese retirement institutions: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Huang Xiaoxing , Jiang Yunlan , Liu Yaxin , Shen Liyin , Pan Jing , Zhang Yue
Published: December 2023

Background

The incidence of falling has always been high among the elderly, and it was easy to cause injuries to the elderly and seriously affect their quality of life. There were many studies have been conducted on risk factors affecting the fall of the elderly, but the results widely, retirement institutions as a gathering place for the elderly, there was currently no comprehensive analysis of the factors related to elderly falls in pension institutions. This study aimed to explore the influencing factors of falls among older adults in Chinese nursing homes.

Methods

Chinese and English databases were searched for literature published from database inception to 5 April 2023 on the influencing factors of falls among older adults in Chinese nursing homes. Two reviewers independently screened articles, extracted data, and assessed the quality of the included studies. Meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.4 software.

Results

Eleven studies involving 3503 participants were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled estimate of falls among older adults in Chinese nursing homes was 32% [95% confidence interval (95%CI) (24.0%, 39.0%)]. The main influencing factors for falls among older adults in Chinese nursing homes were age (Odds Ratio (OR) = 1.53), gender (OR = 5.50), visual impairment (OR = 2.30), sedative-hypnotics (OR = 2.36), fear of falling (OR = 2.95), hypertension (OR = 3.72), static balance (OR = 2.02), three or more chronic diseases (OR = 5.63), cognitive status (OR = 2.64), walking aid use (OR = 1.98), fall-related chronic diseases (OR = 2.48), self-awareness of abilities (OR = 2.43), and frequent reminders for fall prevention (OR = 0.10).

Conclusion

Falls among older adults in Chinese nursing homes were common, and there were many influencing factors. Timely screening and intervention should be implemented to reduce the adverse consequences of falls on older adults.

Trial registration

Registration number: CRD42023421099.
How long is life-long? Evaluating and measuring time through life-long/long-term fandom
Authors: Yodovich Neta
Published: December 2023

When reflecting on the passage of time and how it intersects with our fan identity and perception of self, we often find individuals who identify as ‘life-long’ or ‘long-term’ fans. The intersection of time and fandom are often examined in fan studies, as is evident in the plethora of studies on long-term/life-long fans. Despite the prominent use of terms like ‘long-term’ or ‘life-long’, such concepts are rarely explained or critically examined in the literature. Therefore, the current study aims to unpack such terms and reflect on what makes one a life-long fan. Based on an open-ended online questionnaire completed by 94 self-identified life-long/long-term fans of movies, music, anime, sports and video games, this study delves into the subjective construction of time and temporality among fans. It explores the process of or the threshold to becoming a life-long/long-term fan, and the importance of the term to one’s identity and status in the community. By examining life-long/long-term fans, this article demonstrates how time can serve as cultural capital, play a significant role in the fan’s identity work and create a sense of belonging and certainty.
Costumes that tell multispecies stories: Critique of Sympoiesis: A Bio-Inspired Dance Performance
Authors: Le Goff Laurane
Published: December 2023

This research report critiques the multispecies (human and other-than-human) connections created by the costumes inSympoiesis: A Bio-Inspired Dance Performance. Focusing on individuals from three kingdoms:Physarum polycephalum(Protista),Alocasia zebrina(Plantae) andHomo sapiens(Animalia), the performance aimed to share the story of their entanglement. This report unwinds the research and outcome, demonstrating how the other-than-human species’ interdisciplinary research guided the conception of the costumes, choreography and set design. The research has been framed here in the theoretical context of ‘costume agency’, ‘response-ability’ and ‘care’, showing how the concepts infused the design and making process. I reflect on the ethical questions raised while working towards an ecological vision of costume, in terms of both making and designing. Through this article, I argue that creating a space for multispecies stories onstage will require a change in the way we study, design and make costumes.
Shakespeare in Elizabethan Costume: ‘Period Dress’ in Twenty-First-Century Performance, Ella Hawkins (2022)
Authors: Lowe Eleanor
Published: December 2023

Review of: Shakespeare in Elizabethan Costume: ‘Period Dress’ in Twenty-First-Century Performance, Ella Hawkins (2022)

London: Bloomsbury (The Arden Shakespeare), 288 pp.,

ISBN 978-1-35023-442-0, h/bk, £80

ISBN 978-1-35023-445-1, p/bk, £24.99
Molecular analysis and geographic distribution of the recent Indonesian rabies virus
Authors: Cahyanti Nirma , Syukur Sumaryati , Purwati Endang , Fitria Yul , Rahmadani Ibenu , Subekti Didik T.
Published: December 2023

Background and Aim: Some Indonesian islands, including Sumatra, Kalimantan, Sulawesi, Java, and East Nusa Tenggara, have endemic rabies. Rabies outbreaks in Bali began from 2008 to 2011 and continue to occur sporadically. This study aimed to study the molecular analysis and geographical distribution of Indonesian rabies virus (RABV) from 2016 to 2021 and compare to previous periods.

Materials and Methods: Virus isolates from 2016 to 2021 were extracted from dog brains and sequenced at the nucleoprotein gene locus. They were compared with data sequences available in the GenBank database. Indonesian RABV from the previous three periods (before 1989, 1997–2003, and 2008–2010) was extracted from the GenBank database. The genetic diversity in this study was based on the N gene of Indonesian RABV.

Results: Asian RABV, which is genetically close to the Indonesian virus, is a virus from China (ASIA-3 cluster) and from the Southeast Asia region, namely, virus isolates from Sarawak and Malaysia and some Cambodian isolates. Rabies virus, which was isolated from the Bali islands, was the new cluster first detected and published in Bali, Indonesia, in 2008, while RABV from West Sumatra Province, which was isolated from 2016 to 2021, was also considered a new cluster that is genetically distant from other clusters in Indonesia.

Conclusion: The RABV in Indonesia is divided into five clusters. The isolates from West Sumatra Province from 2016 to 2021 were a new cluster genetically distant from other Indonesian viruses.

Keywords: genetic diversity, geographical distribution, nucleoprotein gene, rabies.
Pathological and molecular study of kidneys in apparently healthy cattle and sheep with special reference to Leptospira species in central and northern Jordan
Authors: Hailat Nabil Q. , Mafrag Zaid A. , Gharaibeh Mohammad H. , Alzuheir Ibrahim M.
Published: December 2023

Background and Aim: Renal patVhological conditions can cause significant economic losses for livestock owners. This study investigated and described the gross pathology and histopathology of lesions found in the kidneys of sheep and cattle, with particular attention to the presence of Leptospira spp.

Materials and Methods: Three hundred and sixty kidneys from apparently healthy sheep and cattle (208 and 152, respectively) were collected from slaughterhouses in Jordan for gross and histopathological examinations, multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis, and gene sequencing of Leptospira spp.

Results: Histopathological analysis of the samples revealed the following conditions: interstitial nephritis (4.44%), glomerulonephritis (4.16%), acute tubular necrosis (17.22%), and renal congestion (4.72%). In addition, in 26.9% of the samples, hyaline material was observed in the interstitium of the cortex and medulla. The PCR results revealed that 83 (23.1%) of the 360 samples were positive for Leptospira spp. 16S rRNA, 42/152 (28%) of cattle, and 41/208 (20%) of sheep. Four samples (two sheep and two cattle) were sequenced and deposited in GenBank with accession numbers from OL701310 to OL701313. Basic Local Alignment Search Tool search and nucleotide similarities between OL701311 and OL701313 resulted in the highest similarities with different Leptospira borgpetersenii strains, whereas OL701310 showed the highest nucleotide similarity (99.2%) with the Leptospira interrogans strain. Similarly, phylogenetic analysis revealed that OL701311 to OL701313 clustered together with different serovars of L. borgpetersenii, whereas OL701310 clustered with the L. interrogans clade.

Conclusion: This is the first study to reveal a close association between pathogenic Leptospira spp. and kidney disorders in Jordanian cattle and sheep. These findings may help expand the current understanding of the causes and mechanisms of renal disease in cattle and sheep and contribute to developing more effective prevention and treatment programs.

Keywords: cattle, Jordan, leptospirosis, polymerase chain reaction, renal lesions, sequencing, sheep.
Antibiotic resistance gene-free probiont administration to tilapia for growth performance and Streptococcus agalactiae resistance
Authors: Mawardi Mira , Indrawati Agustin , Lusiastuti Angela Mariana , Wibawan I Wayan Teguh
Published: December 2023

Background and Aim: The rapid development of aquaculture as a major food sector is accompanied by challenges, including diseases that affect tilapia farming worldwide. One such infectious disease caused by Streptococcus agalactiae poses a serious threat to tilapia populations. Probiotics have emerged as a potentially safe preventive measure against S. agalactiae infection. However, antimicrobial resistance from antibiotic-resistant bacteria remains a concern because it can lead to the spread of resistant bacteria and serve as a reservoir of antibiotic-resistant genes in fishes and the surrounding environment. This study aimed to identify candidate probiotic bacteria capable of promoting tilapia growth, providing resistance to S. agalactiae infection, devoid of potential pathogenicity, and free from antibiotic resistance genes. Subsequently, the performance of these probiotic candidates in tilapia was evaluated.

Materials and Methods: Lactococcus garvieae, Priestia megaterium, Bacterium spp., Bacillus megaterium, Bacillus subtilis, and Bacillus pumilus were examined to assess their antibacterial properties, hemolytic patterns, and antibiotic resistance genes. We used the specific primers tetA, tetB, tetD, tetE, tetO, tetQ, ermB, and qnrS that were used for antibiotic resistance gene detection. In vivo probiotic efficacy was evaluated by administering probiotic candidates in tilapia feed at a concentration of 1 × 106 colonies/mL/50 g of feed over a 60-day maintenance period. Resistance to S. agalactiae infection was observed for 14 days after the challenge test.

Results: Lactococcus garvieae, P. megaterium, and Bacterium spp. were identified as promising probiotic candidates among the bacterial isolates. On the other hand, B. megaterium, B. subtilis, and B. pumilus carried resistance genes and exhibited a β hemolytic pattern, rendering them unsuitable as probiotic candidates. The selected probiotic candidates (L. garvieae, P. megaterium, and Bacterium spp.) demonstrated the potential to enhance tilapia growth, exhibited no pathogenic tendencies, and were free from antibiotic resistance genes. Supplementation with L. garvieae and Bacterium spp. enhanced tilapia resistance to S. agalactiae infection, whereas P. megaterium supplementation showed an insignificant survival rate compared with controls after the challenge test period.

Conclusion: Probiotics, particularly L. garvieae, P. megaterium, and Bacterium spp., enhance growth and resistance against S. agalactiae infection, without harboring antibiotic resistance genes. Selecting probiotic candidates based on antibiotic resistance genes is essential to ensure the safety of fish, the environment, and human health.

Keywords: Bacterium, Lactococcus garvieae, Priestia megaterium, Probiotic, Streptococcus agalactiae, Tilapia.