bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Additive fabrication of SiO2-based micro-optics with lag-free depth and reduced roughness
Authors: Amata Hadi , Fu Qiang , Heidrich Wolfgang
Published: November 2023

Ultra-thin optical components with high design flexibility are required for various applications in today’s optical and imaging systems, and this is why the use of diffractive optical elements (DOEs) is rapidly increasing. They can be used for multiple optical systems because of their compact size, increased design flexibility, and ease of mass production. Unfortunately, most existing DOEs are fabricated using conventional etching-based methods, resulting in high surface roughness and aspect ratio-dependent etching rate. Furthermore, when small feature size and large feature size patterns co-exist in the same DOE design, the etching depth differs significantly in the same design, called reactive-ion etching (RIE) lag. All these artifacts lead to a reduction in the diffraction efficiency of DOEs. To overcome the drawbacks of etching-based fabrication methods, we propose an alternative method for fabricating DOEs without RIE lag and with improved surface smoothness. The method consists of additively growing multilevel microstructures of SiO2 material deposited by the plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) method onto the substrate followed by liftoff. We demonstrate the effectiveness of the fabrication methods with representative DOEs for imaging and laser beam shaping applications.
Structural color filters with compensated angle-dependent shifts
Authors: Rovenská Katarína , Ligmajer Filip , Idesová Beáta , Kepič Peter , Liška Jiří , Chochol Jan , Šikola Tomáš
Published: November 2023

Structural color filters use nano-sized elements to selectively transmit incident light, offering a scalable, economical, and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional pigment- and dye-based color filters. However, their structural nature makes their optical response prone to spectral shifts whenever the angle of incidence varies. We address this issue by introducing a conformal VO2 layer onto bare aluminum structural color filters. The insulator-metal transition of VO2 compensated the spectral shift of the filter’s transmission at a 15° tilt with 80% efficiency. Unlike solutions that require adjustment of the filter’s geometry, this method is versatile and suitable also for existing structural filters. Our findings also establish tunable materials in general as a possible solution for angle-dependent spectral shifts.
Optical design mode based on fast automatic design process for freeform reflective imaging systems with modest FOV
Authors: Wu Weichen , Zhu Jun
Published: November 2023

Traditional optical design methods require designer intervention in the system’s evolution from the starting point to the final design. Trial-and-error during design optimization improves system performance step by step but requires much time and effort. A new optical design framework, end-to-end fast automatic design, is proposed and achieved for the freeform reflective optics in this paper, which promotes a new optical design mode. Compared with the traditional mode through improving performance after each trial, an optical system with good image quality can be directly obtained in the end-to-end design process with simple input and no human involvement within a short time. If there is still the possibility for performance improvement of the obtained system, the designer can vary the input parameters repeatedly to obtain multiple systems with good image quality. Finally, the desired system is selected from these systems. Compared with the step-by-step trials in traditional optimization, this new optical design mode involves high-speed trials of the end-to-end automatic design process, reducing the dependence on experience and skill. In this paper, an end-to-end fast automatic design method for freeform imaging systems is developed based on a new design route. Using an initial plane system as an input, a freeform system with excellent image quality can be designed automatically within 1–2 min. After several trials of the end-to-end fast design process, three high-performance freeform systems are designed successfully that consider volume control, beam obscuration, and mirror interference.
Registration-free 3D super-resolution generative deep-learning network for fluorescence microscopy imaging
Authors: Zhou Hang , Li Yuxin , Chen Bolun , Yang Hao , Zou Maoyang , Wen Wu , Ma Yayu , Chen Min
Published: November 2023

Volumetric fluorescence microscopy has a great demand for high-resolution (HR) imaging and comes at the cost of sophisticated imaging solutions. Image super-resolution (SR) methods offer an effective way to recover HR images from low-resolution (LR) images. Nevertheless, these methods require pixel-level registered LR and HR images, posing a challenge in accurate image registration. To address these issues, we propose a novel registration-free image SR method. Our method conducts SR training and prediction directly on unregistered LR and HR volume neuronal images. The network is built on the CycleGAN framework and the 3D UNet based on attention mechanism. We evaluated our method on LR (5×/0.16-NA) and HR (20×/1.0-NA) fluorescence volume neuronal images collected by light-sheet microscopy. Compared to other super-resolution methods, our approach achieved the best reconstruction results. Our method shows promise for wide applications in the field of neuronal image super-resolution.
Skin solitons
Authors: Komis I. , Musslimani Z. H. , Makris K. G.
Published: November 2023

Recently, the concept of skin effect has gained considerable attention in the context of non-Hermitian photonics. The experimental realization of Hatano–Nelson systems in optical coupled cavities has provided the opportunity to consider the effect of optical nonlinearity. In this work, we probe the interplay between Kerr nonlinearity and non-Hermiticity in a Hatano–Nelson lattice. In particular, we examine the relation between self-focusing and the skin effect under single-channel excitation. Moreover, we numerically identify skin soliton solutions, which exhibit power threshold and spatial asymmetry.
Ploidy evolution in a wild yeast is linked to an interaction between cell type and metabolism
Authors: Crandall Johnathan G. , Fisher Kaitlin J. , Sato Trey K. , Hittinger Chris Todd
Published: November 2023

Ploidy is an evolutionarily labile trait, and its variation across the tree of life has profound impacts on evolutionary trajectories and life histories. The immediate consequences and molecular causes of ploidy variation on organismal fitness are frequently less clear, although extreme mating type skews in some fungi hint at links between cell type and adaptive traits. Here, we report an unusual recurrent ploidy reduction in replicate populations of the budding yeast Saccharomyces eubayanus experimentally evolved for improvement of a key metabolic trait, the ability to use maltose as a carbon source. We find that haploids have a substantial, but conditional, fitness advantage in the absence of other genetic variation. Using engineered genotypes that decouple the effects of ploidy and cell type, we show that increased fitness is primarily due to the distinct transcriptional program deployed by haploid-like cell types, with a significant but smaller contribution from absolute ploidy. The link between cell-type specification and the carbon metabolism adaptation can be traced to the noncanonical regulation of a maltose transporter by a haploid-specific gene. This study provides novel mechanistic insight into the molecular basis of an environment–cell type fitness interaction and illustrates how selection on traits unexpectedly linked to ploidy states or cell types can drive karyotypic evolution in fungi.
Targeted inhibition of Wnt signaling with a Clostridioides difficile toxin B fragment suppresses breast cancer tumor growth
Authors: He Aina , Tian Songhai , Kopper Oded , Horan Daniel J. , Chen Peng , Bronson Roderick T. , Sheng Ren , Wu Hao , Sui Lufei , Zhou Kun , Tao Liang , Wu Quan , Huang Yujing , Shen Zan , Han Sen , Chen Xueqing , Chen Hong , He Xi , Robling Alexander G. , Jin Rongsheng , Clevers Hans , Xiang Dongxi , Li Zhe , Dong Min
Published: November 2023

Wnt signaling pathways are transmitted via 10 homologous frizzled receptors (FZD1-10) in humans. Reagents broadly inhibiting Wnt signaling pathways reduce growth and metastasis of many tumors, but their therapeutic development has been hampered by the side effect. Inhibitors targeting specific Wnt-FZD pair(s) enriched in cancer cells may reduce side effect, but the therapeutic effect of narrow-spectrum Wnt-FZD inhibitors remains to be established in vivo. Here, we developed a fragment of C. difficile toxin B (TcdBFBD), which recognizes and inhibits a subclass of FZDs, FZD1/2/7, and examined whether targeting this FZD subgroup may offer therapeutic benefits for treating breast cancer models in mice. Utilizing 2 basal-like and 1 luminal-like breast cancer models, we found that TcdBFBD reduces tumor-initiating cells and attenuates growth of basal-like mammary tumor organoids and xenografted tumors, without damaging Wnt-sensitive tissues such as bones in vivo. Furthermore, FZD1/2/7–positive cells are enriched in chemotherapy-resistant cells in both basal-like and luminal mammary tumors treated with cisplatin, and TcdBFBD synergizes strongly with cisplatin in inhibiting both tumor types. These data demonstrate the therapeutic value of narrow-spectrum Wnt signaling inhibitor in treating breast cancers.
Accurate classification of major brain cell types using in vivo imaging and neural network processing
Authors: Das Gupta Amrita , Asan Livia , John Jennifer , Beretta Carlo , Kuner Thomas , Knabbe Johannes
Published: November 2023

Comprehensive analysis of tissue cell type composition using microscopic techniques has primarily been confined to ex vivo approaches. Here, we introduce NuCLear (Nucleus-instructed tissue composition using deep learning), an approach combining in vivo two-photon imaging of histone 2B-eGFP-labeled cell nuclei with subsequent deep learning-based identification of cell types from structural features of the respective cell nuclei. Using NuCLear, we were able to classify almost all cells per imaging volume in the secondary motor cortex of the mouse brain (0.25 mm3 containing approximately 25,000 cells) and to identify their position in 3D space in a noninvasive manner using only a single label throughout multiple imaging sessions. Twelve weeks after baseline, cell numbers did not change yet astrocytic nuclei significantly decreased in size. NuCLear opens a window to study changes in relative density and location of different cell types in the brains of individual mice over extended time periods, enabling comprehensive studies of changes in cell type composition in physiological and pathophysiological conditions.
Components of iron–Sulfur cluster assembly machineries are robust phylogenetic markers to trace the origin of mitochondria and plastids
Authors: Garcia Pierre Simon , Barras Frédéric , Gribaldo Simonetta
Published: November 2023

Establishing the origin of mitochondria and plastids is key to understand 2 founding events in the origin and early evolution of eukaryotes. Recent advances in the exploration of microbial diversity and in phylogenomics approaches have indicated a deep origin of mitochondria and plastids during the diversification of Alphaproteobacteria and Cyanobacteria, respectively. Here, we strongly support these placements by analyzing the machineries for assembly of iron–sulfur ([Fe–S]) clusters, an essential function in eukaryotic cells that is carried out in mitochondria by the ISC machinery and in plastids by the SUF machinery. We assessed the taxonomic distribution of ISC and SUF in representatives of major eukaryotic supergroups and analyzed the phylogenetic relationships with their prokaryotic homologues. Concatenation datasets of core ISC proteins show an early branching of mitochondria within Alphaproteobacteria, right after the emergence of Magnetococcales. Similar analyses with the SUF machinery place primary plastids as sister to Gloeomargarita within Cyanobacteria. Our results add to the growing evidence of an early emergence of primary organelles and show that the analysis of essential machineries of endosymbiotic origin provide a robust signal to resolve ancient and fundamental steps in eukaryotic evolution.
Strengthening provider accountability: A scoping review of accountability/monitoring frameworks for quality of RMNCH care
Authors: Jarawan Eva , Boiangiu Mara , Zeng Wu
Published: November 2023

Increasing health providers’ accountability is an important element in improving quality of care (QoC) for reproductive, maternal, neonatal, and child health (RMNCH), so as to improve health outcomes of the population in many low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Implemented RMNCH monitoring initiatives vary in their settings, methods of data collection, and indicators selected for monitoring. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the monitoring/accountability frameworks used by key global monitoring initiatives and provide insights for countries to develop context-customized indicators for RMNCH monitoring and accountability in middle-income countries. The authors conducted a scoping review of key global monitoring initiatives on their monitoring/accountability framework and associated indicators. Data was extracted into a spreadsheet template for analysis. Monitoring/accountability frameworks corresponding to the selected global RMNCH initiatives were described, analyzed, and then categorized the monitoring indicators used by the initiatives according to the type of indicators, quality domains, monitoring levels, and type of services. The results showed that all frameworks regarded developing quality indicators and their monitoring as important elements of accountability and emphasized the role of health systems blocks as inputs for QoC. The researchers demonstrated the importance of measuring quality through both condition-specific and general health system indicators. However, given the different purposes of global monitoring initiatives, the indicators they used varied. We found a lack of indicators measuring QoC of reproductive health. In terms of quality domains, the timeliness and efficiency of RMNCH services were neglected, as few of these indicators were selected for monitoring. Global monitoring initiatives provide valuable frameworks for countries to understand which key indicators need to be tracked to achieve global objectives and develop the foundation for their own accountability/monitoring systems. Gaps in quality indicator design and use emphasize countries need to build on what the global initiatives have achieved to systematically examine quality concerns, develop a tailored and effective accountability/monitoring framework, and improve population health.
Tracheostomy care quality improvement in low- and middle-income countries: A scoping review
Authors: Selekwa Msiba , Maina Ivy , Yeh Tiffany , Nkya Aslam , Ncogoza Isaie , Nuss Roger C. , Mushi Beatrice P. , Haddadi Sumaiya , Van Loon Katherine , Mbaga Elia , Massawe Willybroad , Roberson David W. , Dharsee Nazima , Musimu Baraka , Xu Mary Jue
Published: November 2023

Tracheostomy is a lifesaving, essential procedure performed for airway obstruction in the case of head and neck cancers, prolonged ventilator use, and for long-term pulmonary care. While successful quality improvement interventions in high-income countries such as through the Global Tracheostomy Collaborative significantly reduced length of hospital stay and decreased levels of anxiety among patients, limited literature exists regarding tracheostomy care and practices in low and middle-income countries (LMIC), where most of the world resides. Given limited literature, this scoping review aims to summarize published tracheostomy studies in LMICs and highlight areas in need of quality improvement and clinical research efforts. Based on the PRISMA guidelines, a scoping review of the literature was performed through MEDLINE/PubMed and Embase using terms related to tracheostomy, educational and quality improvement interventions, and LMICs. Publications from 2000–2022 in English were included. Eighteen publications representing 10 countries were included in the final analysis. Seven studies described baseline needs assessments, 3 development of training programs for caregivers, 6 trialed home-based or hospital-based interventions, and finally 2 articles discussed development of standardized protocols. Overall, studies highlighted the unique challenges to tracheostomy care in LMICs including language, literacy barriers, resource availability (running water and electricity in patient homes), and health system access (financial costs of travel and follow-up). There is currently limited published literature on tracheostomy quality improvement and care in LMICs. Opportunities to improve quality of care include increased efforts to measure complications and outcomes, implementing evidence-based interventions tailored to LMIC settings, and using an implementation science framework to study tracheostomy care in LMICs.
Diagnostic potential of serum HSP90 beta for HNSCC and its therapeutic prognosis after local hyperthermia therapy
Authors: Shetake Neena G. , Kumar Amit , Huilgol Nagraj , Pandey Badri N.
Published: November 2023

The present pilot study aims to investigate the diagnostic and prognostic efficacy of serum HSP90 beta in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC) patients subjected to localized hyperthermia therapy (HT). Serum levels of HSP90 beta were measured by ELISA and its diagnostic and prognostic efficacy was determined by receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis. HNSCC patients showed significantly (P<0.05) higher serum levels of HSP90 beta (65.6±13.08 ng/ml) compared to Healthy Controls (HC: 23.5±3.8 ng/ml). No significant difference was observed in serum HSP90 beta levels between complete responders (CR) and non-responders (NR) in the chemo-radiation therapy (CRT) cohort. However, in CRT+HT cohort, CR showed significantly (P = 0.02) lower serum HSP90 beta levels at 24 h after HT (25.6±9.04 ng/ml) compared to NR (130.5±34.2 ng/ml). Youden’s index values between HNSCC versus HC, CR versus NR (CRT) and CR versus NR (CRT+HT) were found to be 0.47, 0.45 and 0.80, respectively. Thus, alterations in the serum HSP90 beta after HT suggest its potential in prognosis of HT response in HNSCC patients. Elevated levels of HSP90 beta may serve as a promising diagnostic serum bio-marker for HNSCC. However, further validation in larger patient samples is needed for clinical translation of HSP90 beta as diagnostic and prognostic biomarker.
Understanding sexual violence in sex working populations—Law, legal consciousness and legal practice in four countries (2021–2023): Study Protocol v2.5
Authors: Scoular Jane , Sanders Teela , Balderston Susie , Abel Gillian , Brents Barbara , Ellison Graham , Marriott Nigel
Published: November 2023

Background

Globally, the most important human rights and public health issue that sex workers face is their experience of high levels of violence (Kinnell, 2006, Kinnell, 2008, Alexander, 1999). Deering’s systematic review estimated levels of sexual violence in sex working populations as being between 14% and 54% (Deering et al, 2014).

Aims

This international, robust mixed methods study will explore the frequency of sexual violence against sex workers, barriers in criminal justice and the legal consciousness of sex workers regarding their rights and consent. The hypothesis to be tested is that the safety of sex workers from sexual violence is mediated by the differing legal contexts of sex work environments. We will compare experiences across research sites in the context of legalisation (Nevada USA), client criminalisation (Northern Ireland), decriminalisation (New Zealand) and partial criminalisation (England, Scotland and Wales) [henceforth ESW].

Methods

An international survey (n = 1,000) will be translated into several languages, to disaggregate experiences by demographic categories (gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation) and sex work sector (including online, street-based and brothels). Interviews (n = 100) with sex workers, police, prosecutors and service providers will be thematically analysed to explore legal consciousness, why the patterns occur and contextualise the statistical findings. These data will be supplemented with comparative legislative, policy and case analysis. Research study data will be used to compare the social factors and legal norms shaping sex workers experiences of sexual violence, justice and support interventions. Recommendations for a ‘best practice’ review of legal improvements and support interventions will be produced following completion of the study.

Given the sensitive nature of the research, robust ethical and data protection mechanisms are in place. The research has ethical approval from each research site, an Advisory Board and trained, paid peer researchers to assist with data gathering, analysis and dissemination. The study will report findings in 2023/2024.
Emotional states predict cellular immune system activity under conditions of life as it is lived: A multivariate time-series analysis approach
Authors: Seizer Lennart , Fuchs Dietmar , Bliem Harald R. , Schubert Christian
Published: November 2023

The relationship between emotional states and immune system activity is characterized by bidirectional influences; however, limited information is available regarding the temporal dynamics of these effects. The goal of this investigation was to examine how these psychoimmunological interdependencies unfold over time under conditions of “life as it is lived”. For this purpose, three healthy women collected their entire urine over a period of approximately two months at 12-h intervals (8 am–8 pm, 8 pm–8 am), resulting in a total of 112 to 126 consecutive measurements per subject. In addition, among other regular psychological assessments, the subjects completed the EWL-60-S, an emotional state questionnaire, each morning and evening. To assess the extent of T-helper type 1 immune activation, the neopterin per creatinine concentration was measured in the urine samples using high-pressure liquid chromatography. The dynamic relationships between the time series of the six emotional states (performance-related activity, general inactivity, extraversion/introversion, general feeling of comfort, emotional irritation, anxiety/depressiveness) and urinary neopterin levels were estimated in vector-autoregressive models and evaluated using Granger-causality tests, impulse-response functions and forecast error variance decompositions. The findings showed that emotional states explained up to 20% of the variance of urinary neopterin per creatinine levels, whereby most of the effects occurred within a period of approximately three days. Across all subjects, increases in anxiety/depressiveness and extraversion led to increases in neopterin levels, while a general feeling of comfort led to decreases in neopterin. These results emphasize the importance of the interdependencies between emotional states and immune system activity and showcase the potential that intensive longitudinal study designs offer for psychoneuroimmunology.
The microRNA-mediated gene regulatory network in the hippocampus and hypothalamus of the aging mouse
Authors: Munkhzul Choijamts , Yi Sun Shin , Kim Junhyung , Lee Seongsoo , Kim Hyuntae , Moon Jong-Seok , Lee Mihye
Published: November 2023

Aging leads to time-dependent functional decline of all major organs. In particular, the aging brain is prone to cognitive decline and several neurodegenerative diseases. Various studies have attempted to understand the aging process and underlying molecular mechanisms by monitoring changes in gene expression in the aging mouse brain using high-throughput sequencing techniques. However, the effect of microRNA (miRNA) on the post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression has not yet been comprehensively investigated. In this study, we performed global analysis of mRNA and miRNA expression simultaneously in the hypothalamus and hippocampus of young and aged mice. We identified aging-dependent differentially expressed genes, most of which were specific either to the hypothalamus or hippocampus. However, genes related to immune response-related pathways were enriched in upregulated differentially expressed genes, whereas genes related to metabolism-related pathways were enriched in downregulated differentially expressed genes in both regions of the aging brain. Furthermore, we identified many differentially expressed miRNAs, including three that were upregulated and three that were downregulated in both the hypothalamus and hippocampus. The two downregulated miRNAs, miR-322-3p, miR-542-3p, and the upregulated protein-encoding coding gene C4b form a regulatory network involved in complement and coagulation cascade pathways in the hypothalamus and hippocampus of the aging brain. These results advance our understanding of the miRNA-mediated gene regulatory network and its influence on signaling pathways in the hypothalamus and hippocampus of the aging mouse brain.
Raccoon spatial ecology in the rural southeastern United States
Authors: Hill Jacob E. , Miller Madison L. , Helton James L. , Chipman Richard B. , Gilbert Amy T. , Beasley James C. , Dharmarajan Guha , Rhodes Olin E.
Published: November 2023

The movement ecology of raccoons varies widely across habitats with important implications for the management of zoonotic diseases such as rabies. However, the spatial ecology of raccoons remains poorly understood in many regions of the United States, particularly in the southeast. To better understand the spatial ecology of raccoons in the southeastern US, we investigated the role of sex, season, and habitat on monthly raccoon home range and core area sizes in three common rural habitats (bottomland hardwood, upland pine, and riparian forest) in South Carolina, USA. From 2018–2022, we obtained 264 monthly home ranges from 46 raccoons. Mean monthly 95% utilization distribution (UD) sizes ranged from 1.05 ± 0.48 km2 (breeding bottomland females) to 5.69 ± 3.37 km2 (fall riparian males) and mean monthly 60% UD sizes ranged from 0.25 ± 0.15 km2 (breeding bottomland females) to 1.59 ± 1.02 km2 (summer riparian males). Males maintained home range and core areas ~2–5 times larger than females in upland pine and riparian habitat throughout the year, whereas those of bottomland males were only larger than females during the breeding season. Home ranges and core areas of females did not vary across habitats, whereas male raccoons had home ranges and core areas ~2–3 times larger in upland pine and riparian compared to bottomland hardwood throughout much of the year. The home ranges of males in upland pine and riparian are among the largest recorded for raccoons in the United States. Such large and variable home ranges likely contribute to elevated risk of zoonotic disease spread by males in these habitats. These results can be used to inform disease mitigation strategies in the southeastern United States.
Evolution of China’s interaction with Middle Eastern countries under the Belt and Road Initiative
Authors: Chen Junhua , Yang Xiaolu , Wang Meijun , Su Min
Published: November 2023

The Middle East holds a critical strategic position in global politics, economy, and military affairs, serving as a pivotal hub for the advancement of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) through both land and sea routes. Since the proposal of BRI, China’s cooperation with Middle Eastern countries has steadily deepened. Consequently, examining the evolution of China’s interaction with Middle Eastern nations over the past decade is of paramount significance for future development. This study utilizes the GDELT database to construct formulas for measuring event impact and bilateral relationship intensity. It analyzes the temporal development and spatial patterns of China’s interaction with Middle Eastern countries while also examining the types of interactive relationships between China and individual countries in the Middle East under the principle of reciprocity. The findings indicate that the overall interaction between China and Middle Eastern countries remains stable. Cooperative relationships have transitioned from a "single cooperation" approach to a "dual cooperation" model involving Iran and Saudi Arabia. Moreover, the development trajectory has shifted from an imbalanced "north-high, south-low" pattern towards equilibrium, resulting in a general decline in conflict relations and a decrease in inter-country disparities. The prevalent type of interaction between countries is characterized by balance.
Prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders and its associated factors among traditional cloth weavers in Chencha district, Gamo zone, Ethiopia, an ergonomic study
Authors: Haftu Desta , Kerebih Haregewein , Terfe Amare
Published: November 2023

Musculoskeletal disorders at work are common in the majority of African countries. Weaving is very important in Ethiopia for the national economy and for enhancing the country’s cultural values. However, the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders in developing countries is significantly higher in common informal or small-scale enterprises such as weaving. Moreover, little is known about the prevalence and risk factors for musculoskeletal disorders in the weaving industry in Ethiopia. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders and associated factors among traditional cloth weavers in Chencha district, Gamo zone, Ethiopia. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Chencha district from November 1 to December 30, 2021, using a simple random sampling technique. A total of 420 traditional cloth weavers working in individual households were interviewed. Multivariable logistic regressions were performed on variables with p-values less than 0.025 in the bivariate analysis. Work-related musculoskeletal disorders had been reported in the previous 12 months by approximately 97 (46.9%) of respondents. Work-related musculoskeletal disorders were reported by 76.1% of weavers in the shoulder region, 64.2% in the low back, 56.3% in the neck, and 0.2% in the upper back. Working for more than 10 years (AOR = 5.05, 95%CI: 1.23, 20.77), working with prolonged sitting (AOR = 4.77, 95%CI: 1.37, 16.62), and job dissatisfaction (AOR = 2.41, 95%CI: 1.04, 5.55) were among the determinants of work-related musculoskeletal disorders. As a result, ergonomically oriented weaving workstations are required because the majority of musculoskeletal disorders are caused by poorly designed workstations.
Service access experiences of immigrant and refugee caregivers of autistic children in Canada: A scoping review
Authors: Casale Lina Marie , Gentles Stephen J. , McLaughlin Janet , Schneider Margaret
Published: November 2023

Primary caregivers are the main mediators of care for children with an autism diagnosis in Canada, and the navigation process to gain access to autism-related services is known to be a major burden. These challenges to service access are compounded for newcomers to Canada, which include immigrants and refugees. The purpose of this scoping review is to describe the available research on Canadian newcomer caregiver experiences navigating and accessing autism-related services. After a systematic search and screening process, 28 studies were included. Data were extracted regarding the populations, study aims, and themes reported. Included studies characterized barriers and facilitators to service access and navigation specific to immigrants, while limited information was available for refugees. Based on the existing literature, the authors provide recommendations for possible research approaches, populations to include, and themes to examine in future research to promote health equity in Canadian autism service access.
Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPGs) for stroke rehabilitation from Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs): Protocol for systematic review
Authors: Hombali Aditi , Mahmood Amreen , Gandhi Dorcas B. C. , Kamalakannan Sureshkumar , Chawla Nistara S. , D’souza Jennifer , Urimubenshi Gerard , Sebastian Ivy A. , Solomon John M. ,   on behalf of the Global Consortium of Stroke Rehabilitation (GCSR)
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Stroke rehabilitation guidelines promoteclinical decision making, enhance quality of healthcare delivery, minimize healthcare costs, and identify gaps in current knowledge to guide future research. However, there are no published reviews that have exclusively evaluated the quality of existing Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPGs) for stroke rehabilitation from Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs) or provided any insights into the cultural variation, adaptations, or gaps in implementation specific to LMICs.

Objectives

To identify CPGs developed by LMICs for stroke rehabilitation and evaluate their quality using AGREE-II and AGREE-REX tool.

Methods

The review protocol is prepared in accordance with the PRISMA-P guidelines and the review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42022382486). The search was run in Medline, EMBASE, CINHAL, PEDro for guidelines published between 2000 till July 2022. Additionally, SUMSearch, Google, and other guideline portals and gray literature were searched. The included studies were then subjected to data extraction for the following details: Study ID, title of the CPG, country of origin, characteristics of CPG (Scope-national/regional, level of care, multidisciplinary/uni-disciplinary), and information on stroke rehabilitation relevant recommendations. The quality of the included CPGs will be subsequently evaluated using AGREE-II and AGREE-REX tool.

Results & conclusion

This systematic review aims to explore the gaps in existing CPGs specific to LMICs and will aid in development/adaptation/contextualization of CPGs for implementation in LMICs.
Determinants of evidence-based practice among health care professionals in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zewdie Amare , Ayele Mulat , Melis Tamirat , Kasahun Abebaw Wasie
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Evidence-based practice (EBP) is the art of using up-to-date information for clinical decision-making. Healthcare professionals at all levels are expected to use the latest research evidence for quality care. In Ethiopia inclusive and nationally representative summarized evidence regarding the level of EBP among health professionals is scarce. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the pooled prevalence of EBP utilization and its determinants among Ethiopian health professionals.

Method

A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted using PRISMA guidelines. Comprehensive literature was searched in PubMed, Google Scholar, and African Online Journal databases. A weighted inverse variance random effect model was used to estimate pooled prevalence. Cochrane Q-test and I2 statistics were computed to assess heterogeneity among studies. Funnel plot and Eggers test were done to assess publication bias. Factors associated with EBP were identified using STATA v. 14.

Result

Overall, 846 articles were retrieved and finally 23 articles were included in this review. The pooled prevalence of good EBP among health professionals was 52.60% (95%CI; 48.15%-57.05%). Knowledge about EBP (AOR = 2.38, 95% CI: (2.08–2.72)), attitude (AOR = 2.09, 95% CI: (1.67–2.60)), educational status (AOR = 3.12, 95% CI: (2.18–4.47)), work experience (AOR = 2.59, 95% CI: (1.48–4.22)), EBP training (AOR = 2.26, 95% CI: (1.87–2.74)), presence of standard guideline (AOR = 1.94, 95% CI: (1.51–2.50)), internet access (AOR = 1.80, 95% CI: (1.47–2.20)), presence of enough time (AOR = 2.01, 95% CI: (1.56–2.60)) and marital status (AOR = 1.73, 95% CI: (1.32–2.28)) were determinants of EBP.

Conclusion

Around half of health professionals in Ethiopia have good EBP utilization which was low. Knowledge, attitude, educational status, work experience, EBP training, presence of standard guidelines, internet access, presence of enough time, and single marital status were positively associated with EBP. Therefore future interventions should focus on increasing their knowledge and changing their attitude through providing training and addressing organizational barriers like availing standard guidelines, accessing the internet, and minimizing professionals’ workload that enables them to critically appraise and integrate the latest evidence for clinical decision-making to improve the quality of care.
Health status and genetic compositions of green turtles (Chelonia mydas) foraging in Brunei Bay
Authors: Joseph Juanita , Nishizawa Hideaki , Jalimin Siti Nabilla , Othman Rafidah , Jaaman Saifullah Arifin , Bali James , Xuelei Zhang
Published: November 2023

Long-term monitoring of sea turtle aggregations is critical for understanding the impacts of environmental changes on their population health and habitat suitability. Brunei Bay is a significant foraging ground for green turtles in the South China Sea. We analyzed the body size, hematology and body condition of green turtles for their health status in their foraging ground in Brunei Bay over a period of nine years (2011–2019). Additionally, we used mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) to evaluate changes in the size and genetic composition of green turtle aggregations. Our findings revealed that the size composition of the green turtle population varied seasonally, but there were no significant temporal changes in genetic and size compositions. Hematology parameters and Fulton’s body condition index were consistent with those reported for apparently healthy green turtles. Furthermore, we found that blood reference intervals indicated the turtles were healthy. These results provide valuable baseline data for future comparisons with other foraging aggregations and for long-term monitoring of green turtles in Brunei Bay.
Protocol for DEprescribing and Care to reduce Antipsychotics in Dementia (DECADE)–A hybrid effectiveness-implementation pilot study
Authors: Benthien Kirstine Skov , Lech Laura Victoria Jedig , Birke Hanne , Jørgensen Sidsel Maria , Andersen Tina , Hansen Stine Vest , Andersen Jon Trærup , Karstoft Kristian , Schiøtz Michaela , Vermehren Charlotte
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) should only rarely and briefly be treated with antipsychotics. Despite recommendations to the contrary, the use of antipsychotics in nursing home residents with dementia is widespread and followed by serious adverse effects. Intervention studies on methods to reduce the use of antipsychotics in persons with dementia are few and needed. The aim of this protocol is to describe the rationale and content of the intervention DEprescribing and Care to reduce Antipsychotics in DEmentia (DECADE)–a hybrid effectiveness-implementation pilot study.

Materials and methods

This is a protocol of a prospective hybrid effectiveness-implementation pilot study. The primary aim of DECADE is to reduce the use of antipsychotic drugs by 50% in 50% of nursing home residents with dementia while maintaining or improving BPSD. The intervention is implemented in six nursing homes including approximately 190 residents with dementia and consists of Academic Detailing, medication review, education of nursing home staff, and care plans. The evaluation of feasibility and potential effectiveness is an overall assessment of all clinical and process outcomes. Logistic regression analyses will be used to investigate factors characterizing situations with prescription of antipsychotics. BPSD is analysed with a before- and after design using self-controlled case series methods and the use of antipsychotics is analysed as interrupted time series.

Discussion

This protocol describes a study that will provide an indication of DECADE effectiveness and a model for upscaling and further evaluation in a controlled design.
Introduction
Authors: Lorson Peter C. , Haustein Ellen , Jorge Susana
Published: November 2023

Public sector accounting (PSA) and reporting is a theme of high relevance for both academia and practitioners in the European Union (EU).
Theoretical approaches to financial accounting purposes and principles
Authors: Oulasvirta Lasse
Published: November 2023

The theories of accounting are described first, followed by the conventions and principles of accounting and their interpretation in the public sector. Public sector Conceptual Frameworks for financial accounting are outlined especially from the point of view of the primary users’ needs, valuation and measurement principles. Different and competing theoretical approaches to public sector accounting frameworks are also explained.
Reporting components and reliability issues
Authors: Jorge Susana , Caruana Josette
Published: November 2023

This chapter deals with financial reporting in the public sector, taking IPSAS as reference. Some examples of the reporting components of specific countries are presented. The chapter also highlights the role of financial reporting in promoting transparency and accountability in the public sector, and concludes by referring to the importance of auditing to ensure fair presentation and regularity of the public sector accounts, ultimately impacting on citizens’ trust in public sector managers and politicians.
Overview of IPSAS on public sector specific topics
Authors: Haustein Ellen , Lorson Peter C. , Vanhee Christophe , Christiaens Johan
Published: November 2023

This chapter sets forth the IPSAS content by reviewing relevant norms. The hierarchy of IPSASB announcements and the set of IPSAS financial statements are briefly explained. Still, the focus of this chapter is on selected IPSAS referring to specific balance sheet items, namely property, plant and equipment (IPSAS 17, 21, 26), revenues and expenses from non-exchange transactions (IPSAS 23, 42, ED 72) and service concessions and the related assets and liabilities (IPSAS 32). Each standard is summarized in brief and for each accounting field, the definition, initial recognition and subsequent measurement is introduced.
Work-Life Balance, Job Satisfaction, and Career Development of Millennials: The Mediating Role of Affective Commitment
Authors: Yunita Tyna , Hadita Hadita , Wijayanti Murti , Ismayani Vivi
Published: November 2023

Since millennials dominate todayâ€™s workforce, it is necessary to explore the career development of this generation. Therefore, this study aims to examine the career development of the millennial generation based on work-life balance and satisfaction factors mediated by affective commitment. This study involved 160 respondents, most of whom were female manufacturing workers. This study took a quantitative approach and used structural equation modeling to examine predictors of career development among millennials. We found that work-life balance and job satisfaction positively affect affective commitment and affective commitment positively affects career development. However, the results revealed no direct relationship between work-life balance and career development. The effect of work-life balance on career development is only significant if it is mediated by job satisfaction. A clear and targeted career path is very important for the continuity of millennial career development. This study suggests technology-based ways to engage millennials using digital tools to interact and share information, resulting in better work-life balance and higher productivity. This study implies that work-life balance is necessary for enhancing job satisfaction, emotional commitment, and career advancement.
The Structural and Macroeconomic Determinants of Manufacturing Export-Value Performance in ASEAN Countries
Authors: Andersen Jonathan , Hasudungan Albert , Viknesuari Salvarina , Tjie David , Sukarno Handoko , Lukas Erica Novianti
Published: November 2023

This study aims to scrutinize the determinants of manufacturing exports in several ASEAN countries, specifically: Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines, and Vietnam. It adopts a panel data regression using the random effects model to predict manufacturing export value using structural (economic complexity and human capital) and macroeconomic (real effective exchange rate, foreign direct investment, and inflation) variables. The research finds that foreign direct investment, human capital, real effective exchange rate, and inflation are positive and statistically significant predictors of manufacturing exports in these ASEAN countries. However, the positive correlation between the real effective exchange rate and manufacturing exports is against previous literature arguing that a currencyâ€™s depreciation drives export competitiveness. The findings suggest that currency appreciation can enhance a countryâ€™s export performance as exportsâ€™ input products are cheaper than before. Additionally, the positive influence of inflation on exports can be explained by the subsequent increase in consumption from foreign countries. Therefore, in addition to managing their exchange rates, countries must develop their human capital and attract more foreign investments to enhance their export performance.
Christisonia flavirubens (Orobanchaceae), a new species from south Western Ghats, India
Authors: Mathew Jose , Salim Pichan M.
Published: November 2023

Christisonia flavirubens J.Mathew & P.M.Salim (Orobanchaceae), a new holoparasitic plant species from the southern Western Ghats, Kerala, India, is described based on morphological data. The diagnostic morphological characters, distribution and images of the new species are presented. Images and comparative characters of the reddish yellow coloured Christisonia species of the south Western Ghats are also provided for its easy identification.
Poetic Imitation: The Argument of Republic 10
Authors: Ben-Asher Sarale
Published: November 2023

The paper offers a new reading of the argument against poetry in Plato’s Republic 10. I argue that Socrates’ corruption charges rely on the tripartite theory of the soul, and that metaphysical doctrines play a role only in the first charge, which demonstrates that the poets are not qualified to teach by reducing tragic poetry to mimetic skill. This accusation clears the way for two corruption charges: the strengthening of appetite, and the softening of spirit (i.e., ‘the greatest charge’). The former focuses on the dangerous association between the poets and the largest appetitive class in the city (hoi polloi), while the latter focuses on the corruption of the educated elite (hoi epieikeis).
Bibliotheksland Tschechien – Partnerland 2022–2025
Authors: Klauser Hella
Published: November 2023

Abstrakt

2022 haben der Dachverband BID und der tschechische Bibliotheksverband SDRUK eine dreijährige Partnerschaft vereinbart. Sie soll durch Austausche, Studienreisen, gemeinsame Kongressteilnahmen und Projekte die Kenntnisse des jeweiligen Bibliotheksnachbarlands und die Kontakte untereinander fördern. Der Beitrag stellt die Partnerland-Idee vor und beschreibt, welche Projekte gemeinsam während der Periode 2022–2025 durchgeführt werden.
Bohemica und Moravica an der Bayerischen Staatsbibliothek
Authors: Hlušička Filip
Published: November 2023

Neben der DFG-geförderten Betreuung des Fachinformationsdienst Ost-, Ostmittel- und Südosteuropa, zu der auch die umfassende Erwerbung von Literatur zur Geschichte Böhmens und Mährens gehört, besitzt die Bayerische Staatsbibliothek eine historische Osteuropasammlung von Weltrang. Exemplarisch werden einige Spitzenstücke dieser Sammlung vom frühen 15. Jahrhundert bis in das 20. Jahrhundert hinein portraitiert.
Tschechien erlesen – Autorinnen und Autoren aus dem Nachbarland zu Gast in Bibliotheken
Authors: Frankenberg Christina
Published: November 2023

Der Artikel stellt interessante tschechische Gegenwartsautorinnen und -autoren, ihre aktuellen Übersetzungen ins Deutsche sowie die Veranstaltungsreihe „Tschechien erlesen“ vor. Im Rahmen dieser Reihe finden Lesungen und Gespräche in deutscher Sprache mit Autorinnen und Autoren aus Tschechien in Berliner und Dresdner Bibliotheken statt. Abschließend gibt es praktische Hinweise zu weiteren Informationsquellen über die zeitgenössische tschechische Literatur und Möglichkeiten der finanziellen Förderung von Lesereisen mit tschechischen Autorinnen und Autoren.