bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prediction of COVID-19 based on neurological manifestations using a fuzzy logic system
Authors: Ahmed Marwa Abdellah Osman , Azim Ghada Saed Abdel , Elsayed Yasser
Published: November 2024

Background

COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, is one of the most known pandemics ever affecting human life and global economics. Recently, it has shown several symptoms related to different organ systems, including the nervous system, represented in some reported neurological manifestations. Therefore, a smart prediction system that can determine the likelihood and certainty of having COVID-19 based on those neurological manifestations can help in early detection of the disease, which helps in diagnosis and limiting the prevalence of COVID-19.

Patients and methods

This study involved a comprehensive data collection process. We gathered information from thousands of patients, encompassing both neurological and non-neurological manifestations of COVID-19. This data, derived from various research works, including mild and moderate cases, was then subjected to rigorous statistical analysis. The results of this analysis formed the basis for the design of a fuzzy interference system (FIS), which utilizes a fuzzy logic approach to determine the certainty of COVID-19 based on neurological symptoms.

Results

Statistical analysis of the collected data showed neurological symptoms in all surveyed cases in the first week of the COVID-19 presentation. Headache has been reported in 70–80% of all cases; anosmia–dysgeusia showed up in 50–60% of total cases; Myalgia presented in 40–45% of all cases; Fatigue was there in 30–35% of the surveyed cases; dizziness was recorded in 30–35% of patients; 0–10% of subjects showed noncommon symptoms like numbness, migraine, loss of concentration, and seizures. By applying these statistical results to the fuzzification process and developing the rulesets, the fuzzy logic-based forecasting system could determine the certainty of COVID-19 with high accuracy, reaching 95% by comparing it with the clinical data.

Conclusions

Surveying neurological and non-neurological symptoms of thousands of COVID-19 patients in many related literature showed neurological manifestations in all patients with different ratios and weights, including mild and moderate cases, by statistically analyzing these data to form the rulesets of a predesigned fuzzy logic-based forecasting system. The fuzzy logic system was able to yield a successful prediction of the likelihood of having COVID-19 in a group of patients based on their neurological symptoms with an accuracy of 95% by comparing the predicted data with the clinical data.
Investigating the association of exon variant rs1800470 of TGF-β1 gene with the risk of stroke using a meta-analysis approach
Authors: Zabihi sheshpoli Mohammadhossein , Eslami Bahman , Seyedalipour Bagher
Published: November 2024

Ischemic stroke is a type of stroke in which blood vessel blockage prevents blood supply to the brain. Transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1) is involved in the pathophysiology of several inflammatory diseases, including ischemic stroke. This study aimed to examine the relationship between rs1800470 (T869C) genetic variation in TGF-β1 gene and the risk of stroke in a meta-analysis approach. In a systematic review, we evaluated trustworthy databases and ultimately included nine eligible studies involving a total of 13,609 participants in our meta-analysis. The strength of association of rs1800470 variation with stroke risk evaluated using the odds ratio and 95% confidence interval. Stratified assessment was also performed according to ethnicity, type of stroke, and genotyping methods. Our data demonstrated substantial correlation between rs1800470 variation and elevated risk of stroke in overall analysis. Also, significant correlations were observed after ethnicity-based stratified analysis and genotyping methods. TGFβ1-rs1800470 could be regarded as a molecular biomarker for identifying at-risk individuals.
Efficacy and safety of ziltivekimab in patients with chronic kidney disease susceptible to inflammatory diseases: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Elrosasy Amr , Sabbagh Dalal , Assaf Mohammad , Tarakhan Husam , Afyouni Ahmad , Elgendy Marwa O. , Abdelaty Lamiaa N. , Omar Refaat H. , Zabady Ahmed Hamdy
Published: November 2024

Background

Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are at risk of developing conditions such as atherosclerosis and inflammation-induced anemia (AI) due to persistent inflammation. Ziltivekimab, an antibody targeting interleukin-6, is being studied for its potential to reduce inflammatory markers in these patients.

Methods

Following PRISMA guidelines, we searched for relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) up to August 20, 2023, and analyzed the data using RevMan 5.4 software. The study period spanned from February 18, 2023, to September 23, 2023. We assessed efficacy outcomes such as high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), serum amyloid A (SAA), and both high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL), as well as safety outcomes, including adverse events (AEs) and infections. Pooled results were calculated using the random effects model and inverse variance method, with mean differences (MD) and risk ratios (RR) presented alongside 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Results

Our review included three RCTs with a total of 473 patients. Compared to the placebo group, patients treated with ziltivekimab showed significantly lower levels of hs-CRP, fibrinogen, and SAA (MD = − 51.64, 95% CI [− 73.73 to − 29.56], P < 0.00001; MD = − 48.23, 95% CI [− 61.73 to − 34.72], P < 0.00001; MD = − 26.34, 95% CI [− 38.63 to − 14.04], P < 0.0001, respectively). There was a notable increase in LDL and HDL levels (MD = 5.92, 95% CI [2.53 to 9.31], P = 0.0006, I2 = 0%; MD = − 5.73, 95% CI [3.75 to 7.71], P < 0.00001, I2 = 0%, respectively). No significant difference in AEs or infections was observed between the two groups. Meta-regression analysis indicated a significant linear relationship between the dose of ziltivekimab and its  effect on hs-CRP levels.

Conclusion

Ziltivekimab showed promise in significantly lowering inflammatory markers without a significant impact on AEs or infections, positioning it as a valuable treatment option for patients with chronic kidney disease CKD who are susceptible to inflammatory diseases, particularly atherosclerosis and autoimmune conditions.
Oral Sodium Loading Test Is More Sensitive Than Seated Saline Infusion Test to Confirm Overt Primary Aldosteronism
Authors: Duquet Laurence , Lefebvre Laura , Lemaire-Paquette Samuel , Malick Mandy , Mallet Pierre-Luc , St-Jean Matthieu
Published: November 2024

Context

Primary aldosteronism (PA), a frequent but underdiagnosed cause of hypertension, is associated with a significant burden of cardiovascular and renal complications. Studies have reported divergent results regarding the diagnostic performance of seated saline infusion test (SSIT) and oral sodium loading test (OSLT), 2 confirmatory tests recommended by the Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guidelines. To our knowledge, no study directly compared the results of SSIT and OSLT to diagnose overt PA.

Objective

We assessed the diagnostic performance of SSIT and OSLT in a group of patients with hypertension and elevated screening aldosterone–renin ratio (ARR). The diagnostic standard was defined as hypertension with or without hypokalemia with an elevated screening ARR and at least 1 abnormal confirmation test including OSLT and SSIT.

Methods

A monocentric retrospective study was conducted, including 87 patients with hypertension with a positive screening who underwent both SSIT and OSLT. A diagnostic performance analysis was conducted using urinary aldosterone at a threshold of 27 nmol/day as the criterion for OSLT, in comparison to a plasma aldosterone concentration (PAC) exceeding 140 pmol/L following the saline infusion.

Results

A statistically significant difference in sensitivity was observed between OSLT and SSIT, with OSLT demonstrating superior performance (P = .025). The aforementioned test exhibited concordance in 59 cases (65.5%), indicating that these methods are not equivalent (McNemar test P = .036).

Conclusion

OSLT demonstrated a significantly higher sensitivity for diagnosing overt PA in comparison with the SSIT in our cohort of patients with hypertension with an abnormal screening ARR.
Stage-Specific Tumoral Gene Expression Profiles of Black and White Patients with Colon Cancer
Authors: El Moheb Mohamad , Shen Chengli , Kim Susan , Putman Kristin , Zhang Hongji , Ruff Samantha M. , Witt Russell , Tsung Allan
Published: November 2024

Background

Black patients with colon cancer (CC) exhibit more aggressive tumor biology and higher treatment resistance than white patients, even after adjusting for clinical and demographic factors. We investigated stage-specific transcriptional differences in tumor profiles of Black and white patients with CC.

Patients and Methods

Patients with CC from The Cancer Genome Atlas Colon Adenocarcinoma database were categorized by disease stage and propensity-score matched between Black and white patients. Differential gene expression and pathway enrichment analyses were performed for each stage. Logistic regression and quadratic discriminant analysis (QDA) models were developed using consistently differentially expressed genes.

Results

Of 247 patients, 128 had localized (22% Black), 81 had regional (74% Black), and 38 had distant disease (29% Black). Differential expression analysis revealed differences in 312 genes for localized, 105 for regional, and 199 for distant stages between Black and white patients. Pathway enrichment analysis showed downregulation of the IL-17 pathway in Black patients with localized disease. In total, five genes exhibited race-specific transcriptional differences across all stages: RAMACL, POLR2J3, POLR2J2, MUC16, and PRSS21. Logistic regression and QDA model performance indicated that these genes represent racial differences [area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC): 0.863 and 0.880].

Conclusions

Significant transcriptional differences exist in CC between Black and white patients changing dynamically across disease stages, and involving genes with broad functions. Key findings include IL-17 pathway downregulation in Black patients with localized disease and a five-gene signature consistent across all stages. These findings may explain aspects of racial disparities in CC, emphasizing the need for race-specific research and treatment strategies.
Preoperative Carbohydrate Loading in Pediatric Surgery: A Scoping Review of Current Clinical Trials
Authors: Widyastuti Yunita , Sari Djayanti , Fadhila Farid Anisa , Rayhan Amar
Published: November 2024

Abstract Introduction Preoperative carbohydrate loading (PCL), part of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols, involves giving carbohydrate-rich liquids before surgery instead of traditional fasting. It improves glucose control, reduces insulin resistance, and enhances patient comfort. Methods A comprehensive scoping review was conducted using databases such as PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Web of Science, focusing on studies from 2017 to 2024. Primary, English-language clinical trial involving pediatric patients were included without restrictions on surgical procedure, or outcomes. Data extraction was focused on sample sizes, PCL types, and perioperative outcomes. Results The scoping review examined 10 studies on PCL in pediatric surgery, covering various procedures with sample sizes ranging from 18 to 1200 participants. Most studies indicated metabolic benefits, with 7 out of 11 showing stabilized blood glucose and reduced hypoglycemia risk. Additionally, 5 studies associated PCL with reduced preoperative anxiety, agitation, and discomfort, including thirst and hunger. For stomach content, 5 studies showed PCL reduced gastric residual volume and improved pH. Postoperative findings were mixed: 4 studies found no significant difference in nausea and vomiting, while 2 suggested benefits. Length of hospital stay from 3 studies showed no clinical difference results. Conclusions PCL in pediatric surgery shows potential to stabilize blood glucose, reduce metabolic risks, and improve recovery. However, the evidence regarding outcomes such as length of hospital stay and postoperative complications remains inconsistent, indicating the need for further investigation.
The Hidden Toll: Investigating the influence of Corruption on Persistent Suicide in the Americas
Authors: Kularathne Sherin , Jayathilaka Ruwan
Published: November 2024

Background Corruption, a multifaceted governance issue, impacts public well-being globally. The recent trends reveal a rise in suicide rates across the Americas, while all other regions show declines over twenty years of time. This study investigates corruption’s effect on suicide in 26 American countries, considering moderating factors of unemployment, inflation, and economic growth. Methods This study analysed latest two decades of available data, using stepwise panel regression method to investigate the effects of corruption and economic variables on suicide across income levels. Data were sourced from Transparency International, World Bank and the World Health Organization. Initially, unit root tests and CUSUM plots were used to ensure the stability and stationarity of the dataset, and model specification were validated through F test, LM test and Hausman test to select the ideal econometric model - POLS, REM, or FEM for the study. Results A strong suicide rate persistence revealed, particularly in high-income countries, where the lagged suicide variable showed a coefficient of 0.8063 (p < 0.001). Corruption significantly impacted suicide rates in upper-middle-income countries (coefficient = -0.0268, p < 0.05), with higher corruption perceptions scores correlating with lower suicide rates. Additionally, unemployment acted as a significant moderator, intensifying the corruption’s adverse impact on suicide with a coefficient of 0.0022 (p < 0.001) in upper-middle income nations. Economic growth demonstrated a minor protective effect, particularly in high-income regions, with an interaction coefficient of -0.0005 (p < 0.1), suggesting slight suicide reduction linked to economic stability. Conclusion This study found that corruption, unemployment, and economic growth significantly influence suicide rates across the Americas. Corruption exacerbates suicide risks in upper-middle-income countries, while unemployment amplifies this effect. Economic growth offers a slight protective effect, particularly in high-income regions, suggesting that economic stability may help mitigate suicide rates.
Undernutrition before two years in Algeria: Repeated cross-sectional analyses (2012-13 to 2018-19)
Authors: Elmighrabi Nagwa Farag , Fleming Catharine A. K. , Agho Kingsley E.
Published: November 2024

Background Algeria has made significant progress in addressing childhood undernutrition. Despite improvements, nearly 12% of Algerian children under five years of age suffered from stunting in 2022. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of three indicators of undernutrition (stunting, wasting, and underweight) and their associated variables in children aged 0–23 months in Algeria between 2013 and 2019. Methods Pooled data from Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys (MICS) (2012-13 and 2018-19) covering 14,498 children were used. Univariate and multiple logistic regression analyses were performed to test the associations. Results Stunting decreased significantly, but wasting and being underweight showed no significant reductions from 2013 to 2019. Stunting, wasting, and underweight decreased by 2.2%, 1.3%, and 0.3%, respectively, with an overall prevalence of 10.1%, 5.4%, and 3.6%, respectively. Factors associated with undernutrition included child age and small size at birth, whereas stunting was linked to the poorest households, male children, higher maternal body mass index (BMI), and low antenatal care (ANC) visits. Wasting was associated with younger age and paternal age, fewer maternal ANC visits, underweight male sex, low maternal education, high maternal BMI, and delayed breastfeeding initiation. Conclusion Public health experts and stakeholders must adopt a comprehensive community-centered approach to achieve long-term improvements in child nutrition in Algeria. This strategy should focus on key factors including high maternal BMI, low maternal education, male children, and infrequent ANC visits. This action can help Algeria progress towards achieving the UN’s goal of eradicating malnutrition.
testCompareR: an R package to compare two binary diagnostic tests using paired data
Authors: Wilson Kyle J. , Roldán-Nofuentes José A. , Henrion Marc Y.R.
Published: November 2024

Background Binary diagnostic tests are commonly used in medicine to answer a question about a patient’s clinical status, most commonly, do they or do they not have some disease. Recent advances in statistical methodologies for performing inferential statistics to compare commonly used test metrics for two diagnostic tests have not yet been implemented in a statistical package. Methods Up-to-date statistical methods to compare the test metrics achieved by two binary diagnostic tests are implemented in the new R package testCompareR. The output and efficiency of testCompareR is compared to the only other available package which performs this function, DTComPair, as well as an open-source program, compbdt, using a motivating example. Results testCompareR achieves similar results to DTComPair using statistical methods with improved coverage and asymptotic performance. Further, testCompareR is faster than the currently available package and requires fewer pre-processing steps in order to produce accurate results. Conclusions testCompareR provides a new tool to compare the test metrics for two binary diagnostic tests compared with the gold standard. This tool allows flexible inputs, which minimises the need for data pre-processing, and operates in very few steps, so that it is easy to use even for those less experienced with R. testCompareR achieves results comparable to those computed by DTComPair, using optimised statistical methods and with improved computational efficiency.
Use of Platelet Rich Plasma in Urological Conditions
Authors: Mioskowska Agnieszka , Szydziak Joanna , Hrapkowicz Aleksandra , Janowska Kinga , Dąbkowska Daria , Szeidl Olga , Rehan Dominka , Wołoszczak Julia
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has become an increasingly popular therapeutic tool across various medical specialties since its introduction in 1958. Defined as a concentrated solution of platelets and growth factors derived from autologous blood, PRP supports tissue repair and regeneration processes. PRP’s composition includes high concentrations of platelets and growth factors that facilitate angiogenesis, connective tissue remodeling, and cellular repair, making PRP a promising treatment option for complex urological conditions and beyond. Purpose of the study: This review aims to summarize the applications and efficacy of PRP in treating specific urological conditions such as erectile dysfunction, Peyronie's disease, urethral stricture, hypospadias, interstitial cystitis and urinary incontinence. Materials and Methods: To provide a comprehensive summary of current knowledge on this topic, a literature review of English-language articles, with an emphasis on recent publications, was conducted. The review utilized the PubMed database and included 51 studies accessed prior to October 2024. Conclusions: PRP therapy appears to be a promising, safe, and minimally invasive treatment option for several urological conditions. Studies suggest that PRP may benefit erectile function, reduce symptoms in Peyronie's disease, and improve outcomes in conditions related to the urethra and bladder, with minimal reported adverse effects. However, the lack of standardized PRP preparation protocols and large placebo-controlled trials poses a challenge to fully establishing its efficacy. Further research is necessary to confirm PRP’s effectiveness, optimize preparation and administration methods, and develop guidelines for its clinical application in urology.
Estructura interna y relación con otros constructos del Cuestionario de Regulación Emocional (ERQ) en Colombia
Authors: Canales Ramírez Lizeth Paola , Bianchi Javier M. , Vélez Ocampo Carlos Humberto
Published: November 2024

El presente estudio buscó confirmar las propiedades psicométricas del Cuestionario de Regulación Emocional (ERQ) en una muestra colombiana de 565 participantes de diferentes regiones del país. Se encontraron coeficientes satisfactorios de consistencia interna para ambas dimensiones del cuestionario, supresión y reevaluación. El análisis confirmó la estructura interna del modelo de dos factores con buenos índices de ajuste e invarianza respecto al sexo. También se hallaron evidencias de relación con sintomatología emocional y dificultades en regulación emocional. Así mismo, se identificaron diferencias significativas en la estrategia de supresión entre hombres y mujeres. Los resultados sugieren que el ERQ es una herramienta válida y confiable para evaluar estrategias de regulación emocional en población colombiana. Por último, se discuten posibles limitaciones del estudio y se proponen direcciones futuras para la investigación.
The art of clinical shade matching of resin-based composite materials
Authors: Parmar Dipesh , Mackenzie Louis , Bonsor Stephen J
Published: November 2024

The present article is the second in a series of three on shade matching in restorative dentistry. The first article provided an overview and general advice on shade taking. This article goes on to discuss what factors should be considered when choosing the most appropriate shade guide in relation to resin-based composite materials. It offers practical advice on how shade guides may be used to best effect in determining an optimal match with respect to optics between the dental hard tissues and resin-based composite products to achieve highly natural imperceptible results when working in the aesthetic zone.

CPD/Clinical Relevance:

The art of shade matching is a fundamental clinical skill in restorative dentistry to ensure that the best possible aesthetic outcome is achieved when working with resin-based composite materials.
Porcelain rehabilitation of the maxillary arch following clear aligner orthodontic treatment
Authors: O'Neill Gary
Published: November 2024

This case report outlines a comprehensive pre-operative assessment followed by clear aligner orthodontic treatment and the placement of porcelain veneer restorations at the maxillary arch. The patient sought the replacement of existing direct and indirect restorations. Clear aligner treatment, using the Invisalign system (Align Technology, AZ, USA), was administered over 21 weeks to address moderate contact point displacement in the anterior sextants. Subsequently, minimally invasive porcelain veneers were provided anteriorly, alongside posterior cuspal coverage restorations.

CPD/Clinical Relevance:

To highlight the significance of pre-restorative orthodontic treatment in optimizing aesthetics and enabling the delivery of minimally invasive restorative procedures.
The relevance of Erich Fromm’s social character and Bourdieu’s habitus in psychosocial research on gendered work and community after de-industrialisation
Authors: Jimenez Luis
Published: November 2024

This article draws attention to Erich Fromm’s concept of social character alongside Pierre Bourdieu’s notion of habitus to broaden our understanding of the legacy of neoliberalism within the context of the massive job redundancies taking place in the steel industry in the UK. This includes secondary analysis of my own earlier research on the psychosocial ramifications of the loss of stable work, changing worker-gendered identities, disrupted affect, community engagement and historical memory within a global context of insecure labour (Walkerdine and Jimenez, 2012).
The household as a constraint on social assistance: analysing the household-construct in the Netherlands’ parliamentary history on social assistance
Authors: Brink Barbara , Bouwmeester Maarten
Published: November 2024

The household means test plays an essential role in social assistance schemes worldwide. Consequently, the legal definition of what constitutes a household importantly impacts social outcomes, while also being constantly challenged by the dynamic societal reality of living arrangements. Despite its significance, this ‘household-construct’ has received strikingly little attention among social policy analysts. Our contribution explores this issue through a longitudinal analysis of the household-construct in the Netherlands’ social assistance legislation and parliamentary history. After conceptualising the household means test in view of the literature on targeted and conditional welfare provision, we discuss the importance of demographic developments (diversifying household composition) as a continuous challenge for household means-tested income support. We then provide a longitudinal analysis of the most important legislative changes (and underlying rationales) to the household-notion in the Dutch main social assistance (minimum subsistence) scheme. The results demonstrate that the household means test has gone through considerable alterations over time, largely in response to societal shifts and in recent decades also as an outflow of the welfare conditionality paradigm. At the same time, the fundamental logic of (1) needs-based targeting and (2) needs assessment at the level of household resources (rather than the individual) have remained intact, thereby adhering to the traditional conception of the economic union of marriage and maintenance obligations between partners. The study demonstrates how a systematic examination of legislative documents can provide valuable insights into the complex interrelationships between this specific area of social security policy, the changing social context and social policy paradigms.
‘Which’ Women Matter in Peacebuilding? Exploring Women’s Grassroots Peacebuilding as Mobilised through Compassion in Northern Ireland
Authors: Gupta Nandini
Published: November 2024

This article explores the grassroots peacebuilding approaches of women in
Northern Ireland (NI), focusing on their compassionate and transversal strategies
within a deeply patriarchal and conflict-ridden context. Drawing from fifteen
semi-structured interviews with women involved in Peace People and other
organisations, the study highlights how these women navigated ethnic identity
politics and militarism to promote inclusive peace initiatives. Using Elisabeth
Porter’s concept of the Politics of Compassion as a framework, the research
illustrates how solidarity and empathy served as powerful political tools for these
peacebuilders, enabling them to transcend gendered divisions and challenge prevailing
power structures. Additionally, the article examines Transversal Politics,
demonstrating how grassroots women skilfully navigated conflicting identities
and differences to foster diversity and inclusion. The research further explicates
how these efforts not only questioned gender-based sectarianism but also illuminated
the role of non-violent activism rooted in compassion and justice.
La Visionnaire : An Intellectual Biography of Mary Niles Maack
Authors: Chancellor Renate
Published: November 2024

Abstract: For more than four decades, Mary Niles Maack was a leading educator and scholar in the library and information science profession. Widely recognized for her research on gender issues and library history, often from an international perspective, Maack authored more than forty publications that focused on the professionalization of women in librarianship and international and comparative studies. In appreciation of her life's work, this intellectual biography traces the strands of Maack's thoughts and their place within her multifaceted body of work.
Researching the Personal Life: Mary Niles Maack's Early Writing on Feminist Biography
Authors: Cloonan Michèle V.
Published: November 2024

Abstract: Mary Niles Maack began her research in library history at a critical time in American feminist studies. Earlier scholars laid the groundwork for feminist research by identifying the contributions of women, gathering sources about them, and writing histories that corrected predominantly male perspectives on the role of women in American history. Maack addressed the problem of premature generalization in library history research in her 1982 article "Toward a History of Women in Librarianship: A Critical Analysis with Suggestions for Further Research." One focus of her scrutiny was Dee Garrison's work. When Maack's article was published, the first women's studies programs were just being established in American universities; her research was an important contribution to a nascent field. This essay considers that evolution. As women's studies grew to embrace gender studies, Maack's work evolved as well. This article considers "Toward a History of Women" and her unpublished 1998 paper "Book Women: Writing Feminist Biography" to understand the evolution of Maack's work in an evolving field.
Veritable Miracle: Situating Black Women Librarian Networks within a Feminist Historical Paradigm
Authors: Gray LaVerne , Choi Jeongbae
Published: November 2024

Abstract: This article explores Black women's librarian networks in early twentieth-century Chicago, inspired by Mary Niles Maack's (1945–2023) groundbreaking research on women's history in librarianship and her historical methodology. To this end, the article first evaluates Maack's primary methodologies employed in her historical inquiries and examines their efficacy. Four key characteristics of Maack's approach are identified: placing librarianship within "a larger context," employing latitude and longitude comparisons, embracing theories beyond the library and information sciences field, and adopting a critical and feminist perspective. The article then demonstrates the extension of these methodologies by examining the collective presence of Black women librarians in early twentieth-century Chicago. This overview not only demonstrates Maack's methodologies in practice but also highlights their effectiveness in reading the nuanced contributions and experiences of Black women in librarianship. The text explores the often-overlooked networks of Black women librarians, drawing from the concepts of "a veritable miracle" and "reconciliation," and asserts the significance of Maack's methodologies for broader historical investigations and their utility in uncovering underrepresented narratives in the history of librarianship.
The Colonial Adventures of Confiscated Arabic Texts: Ibn Battuta's Rihla Manuscript from North Africa to the French National Library
Authors: Ahmed Sumayya , Dumothier Theo , McGinn Kai Miyabayashi
Published: November 2024

Abstract: This article documents our attempt, through primary and secondary source research, including French archival sources, to understand how a copy of Ibn Battuta's (d. 1369) Rihla manuscript, dictated to Ibn Juzayy (d. 1357) at the request of the Moroccan sultan in the 1400s, made its way from North Africa to the Bibliothèque nationale de France in Paris during the 1800s. It also seeks to understand why there has been so little interest in the provenance of the Rihla manuscript held at the Bibliothèque nationale de France. Herein we describe and analyze the circumstances under which a French government functionary and Arabist, Jacques Denis-Delaporte, took an exemplar manuscript from North Africa during the early years of French colonization, and the many lives the text itself has had in the West.
Continuity and Change in West African Librarianship: Revisiting Mary Niles Maack's Research in Senegal and the Region
Authors: Lor Peter Johan
Published: November 2024

Abstract: Mary Niles Maack's 1978 dissertation on the history of libraries in Senegal constitutes a landmark contribution to the historiography of librarianship in Africa and to international librarianship. In this article Maack's dissertation, her 1981 book-length adaptation of it, and her subsequent writings about West African library development are first situated in the political-economic, professional, and scholarly context of the late 1970s, before the dissertation is evaluated in terms of her sources and methodology. Her key theme of continuity and change, her analysis of the French colonial heritage and postcolonial French efforts to preserve influence in West Africa, and the wider relevance of the study are discussed. Maack's book was well received. Her work provided raw material for various other authors as well as for five subsequent journal articles by Maack herself. An attempt is made to answer the question, What might a dissertation on library and information science development in a francophone African country such as Senegal cover today? It is suggested that the precolonial heritage, political-economic factors, information technology, development aid, and renewal of the library profession in Africa would require more attention. However, it would not be easy for a PhD student today to match Maack's scholarship.
The Burning Spirit: The Encyclopedic Vision, Wikipedia, and Librarianship
Authors: McCook Kathleen de la Peña
Published: November 2024

Abstract: Mary Niles Maack was a librarian, professor, scholar of comparative library history, feminist, and encyclopedist. In this essay I consider aspects of the evolution of the encyclopedia vision to its current online manifestation as Wikipedia. I also look at how essential it is that librarians contribute to the reliability of Wikipedia and contribute citations and suggest that librarians work to overcome paywalls that create a barrier to more robust documentation.
Ambivalent Allies: Anglo-Polish Relations through Medical and Scientific Exchanges, 1939–1956
Authors: Studdert Will , Corse Edward , Schmidt Ulf
Published: November 2024

Abstract: In January 1946, the British Council re-opened its Warsaw Office. The following year, capitalizing on the desperate post-war conditions within Poland, the Council established Anglo-Polish exchanges in the fields of medicine and science, with the goal of both assisting in the rebuilding of Polish medical life and asserting British influence in Central Europe, whilst drawing on pre-existing Anglo-Polish medical ties that dated back to the pre-war period. What were the practical justifications for the visits from both British and Polish perspectives, and what purpose did they serve as a form of scientific diplomacy and cultural propaganda? This article will explore the organization, reception and substance of these exchanges, and the British and Polish scientists who participated in them, between 1947 and 1956.
Sang-e-Mah (2022): Hamlet , Gendered Violence, and Female Identity on Pakistani Television
Authors: Odho Mehreen
Published: November 2024

Abstract: This article analyzes the Urdu drama serial Sang-e-Mah 2022, broadcast on Pakistani television, arguing that it relocates William Shakespeare’s Hamlet within cultural, regional, and national identities in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) province. The serial draws on Shakespeare’s play to offer a social commentary on female identity and gender-based violence in relation to the cultural practice of ghag in KPK. Examining the representation of female oppression, power, and agency on Pakistani television in the context of KPK, the article argues that the serial both disrupts the power dynamics of Hamlet and challenges gender roles in KPK in its attempt to redefine attitudes towards women in Pakistan.Ultimately, this article illustrates that Sang-e-Mah “localizes” Shakespeare’s play to allow it to participate in global conversations about the violation of women’s rights, the violation of law and order, and the valorization of gun cultures.
Two camera phase contrast imaging using digital correlation imaging of speckles
Authors: Eriksson Ronja , Gren Per , Sjödahl Mikael , Ramser Kerstin
Published: November 2024

In this paper, we demonstrate quantitative phase contrast imaging using
temporal digital speckle correlation imaging. The system consists of
two identical imaging arms, where one of the arms is used as a
reference and the other is used to image the phase object under study.
The speckled illumination is produced by laser light scattered off a
rotating diffuser. The imaging principle is based on the deflection of
light in the Fourier plane of an imaging system in the presence of a
phase gradient and the decorrelation this causes of a speckle pattern.
In the paper, the technique is theoretically described and
demonstrated both through simulations and experiments using a
dried-out eye contact lens as a phase object.
Wigner’s phase space current for variable beam splitters—seeing beam splitters in a new light
Authors: Steuernagel Ole , Lee Ray-Kuang
Published: November 2024

Beam splitters allow us to superpose two continuous single-mode quantum systems. To study the behavior of their strong mode mixing dynamics, we consider variable beam splitters and their dynamics using Wigner’s phase space distribution, W, the evolution of which is governed by the continuity equation ∂∂τW=−∇⋅J. We derive the form of the corresponding Wigner current, J, of each outgoing mode after tracing out the other. The influence of the modes on each other is analyzed and visualized using their respective Wigner distributions and Wigner currents. This allows us to perform geometrical analyses of the mode interactions, casting new light on beam splitter behavior. Several of the presented results should be immediately testable in experiments.
Photonic compressive sensing of microwave signals with enhanced compression ratio and frequency range via optical pulse random mixing
Authors: Dai Wei , Yang Bo , Yang Shuna , Zhai Yanrong , Ou Jun , Chi Hao
Published: November 2024

We propose and demonstrate a photonic compressive sensing (PCS) scheme for microwave signals using optical pulse random mixing, significantly enhancing both the compression ratio and operating frequency range. Unlike continuous-wave laser-based PCS systems, our approach mitigates the non-ideal characteristics of the pseudo-random binary sequence (PRBS), such as sloped edges and amplitude jitters, resulting in a more ideal compression process. Additionally, the high harmonic components of the optical pulses further facilitate wideband downconversion, improving the system’s operating frequency range. In a proof-of-concept experiment, a dual-tone signal within the 4 GHz range is successfully recovered with a compression ratio of 20. Moreover, single-tone signals beyond the first Nyquist zone, at 7.17 GHz, 11.26 GHz, and 14.6 GHz, are effectively reconstructed with a compression ratio of 40. The proposed PCS system offers a simple, highly efficient solution for wideband spectrum identification, surpassing the performance of conventional continuous-wave-based PCS systems.
SNR improvement in time-expanded phase-sensitive OTDR using Nyquist zone averaging
Authors: Sasikumar Neethu , Soriano-Amat Miguel , Srinivasan Balaji , Martin-Lopez Sonia , Gonzalez-Herraez Miguel , Fernández-Ruiz María R.
Published: November 2024

A recent advancement in distributed sensing known as the time-expanded phase-sensitive optical time-domain reflectometry (TE Φ-OTDR) addresses the trade-off between spatial resolution and detection bandwidth, enabling centimeter-scale resolution alongside RF detection bandwidth in the order of MHz. To date, TE Φ-OTDR approaches extract the fiber response from the first Nyquist zone (NZ). In this Letter, we propose a post-processing strategy to enhance the SNR by spectrally averaging different NZs. By evaluating 200 NZs, we have improved the average SNR of the traces by 23.56 dB compared to the standard demodulation scheme without degrading the acoustic sampling and the spatial resolution.
Temperature-dependent optical and surface electrical properties of Pb(Zr0.3Ti0.7)O3
/p-GaN film
Authors: Lin Shuixiu , Chen Zhengbang , Yao Rongcheng , Lin Xianqi , Wan Lingyu , Peng Biaolin
Published: November 2024

Understanding the temperature-dependent optical and electrical properties of PZT, a multifunctional ferroelectric thin film with temperature sensitivity, is crucial for its applications. This study systematically investigated the microstructure, optical, and surface electrical features of Pb(Zr0.3Ti0.7)O3 thin film deposited on p-GaN substrate (PZT/p-GaN), with an emphasis on their response to temperature variations. Band gap energy (3.643 eV) and the three interband electronic transitions (3.528 eV, 4.662 eV, 6.582 eV) were extracted from optical measurements, which govern the photoelectron transmission behavior of the PZT/p-GaN. Additionally, we identify three phase-transition temperatures (450 K, 550 K, and 620 K) through temperature-dependent optical behavior analysis. With increasing temperature, the electronic transitions and bandgap show a redshift trend, and the bandgap change follows the O'Donnell equation with a significant electron-phonon coupling coefficient (S = 10.284), revealing a strong electron-phonon coupling effect in PZT/p-GaN. The temperature-dependent kelvin piezoelectric force microscopy (KPFM) shows that the surface potential and work function of PZT/p-GaN exhibit different linear variations over three temperature ranges divided by the phase transition temperature point as a demarcation. Furthermore, we observed that the optical and surface electrical properties exhibit anomalous trends at the phase transition point. These findings offer a theoretical reference for the application of PZT thin films in optoelectronics and electronic devices.
Coupling efficiency of electromagnetic hermite non-uniformly correlated beams into a single-mode fiber in a turbulent atmosphere
Authors: Yang Xianyang , Fu Wenyu , Zhu Xiaolu
Published: November 2024

We present a theoretical formula to analyze a single-mode fiber coupling efficiency of electromagnetic hermite non-uniformly correlated (EMHNUC) beams propagating through the turbulent atmosphere and investigate the effects of initial beam parameters, including the beam width, coherence length, beam order, and ratio of field amplitude on fiber-coupling efficiency. We find that a single-mode fiber coupling efficiency initially decreases, increases sharply to the maximum value, and gradually decreases after a long propagation distance. This behavior is attributed to the co-work of the characteristics of such vector non-uniform correlated structural beam and their diffraction broadening in atmospheric turbulence. Adjusting beam parameters can effectively improve the single-mode fiber-coupling efficiency. Our results will benefit the fiber-coupling systems in free-space optical communication.
Mobility changes following COVID-19 stay-at-home policies varied by socioeconomic measures: An observational study in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Wang Siyi , Wang Linwei , Baral Stefan D. , Moloney Gary , Johns Jaimie , Huber Carmen , Mistry Jaydeep , Khan Kamran , Rao Amrita , Janjua Naveed , Williamson Tyler , Katz Alan , Ma Huiting , Maheu-Giroux Mathieu , Kustra Rafal , Mishra Sharmistha
Published: November 2024

In Canada, lower income households and essential workers were disproportionately at risk of SARS-CoV-2. Early in the pandemic, stay-at-home restriction policies were used to limit virus transmission. There remains an evidence gap in how changes in mobility, in response to the policies, varied across socioeconomic measures in Canada. The study objective was to describe the variability in mobility change to two restrictions, by neighborhood-level income and by proportion essential workers across five regions in Ontario, Canada. The first restriction was implemented on March 17, 2020 in all five regions; and the second restriction was implemented in November 23, 2020 in two of the regions. Using cell-phone mobility data aggregated to the census tract, we compared the average mobility (% of devices that travelled outside their “primary location”) three weeks before and after each restriction. We defined the adjusted mobility change via pre-restriction mobility subtracted from post-restriction, adjusted for 2019 levels. We used difference-in-differences analysis to quantify effect modification of the second restriction’s effect by socioeconomic measures. With the first restriction, crude mobility fell from 77.7% to 41.6% across the five regions. The adjusted mobility change to the first restriction was largest in the highest-income neighborhoods (-43.3% versus -38.4%) and in neighborhoods with the fewest essential workers (-44.5% versus -37.6%). The overall adjusted mobility change to the second restriction was small: -0.96% (95% confidence intervals, -1.53 to -0.38%). However, there was evidence of effect modification by socioeconomic measures (less pronounced decrease in lower-income neighborhoods and more essential workers). The findings suggest a temporal saturation effect of restrictions over subsequent waves, and a saturation effect by income and occupation, leading to prevention gaps across populations by socioeconomic measures. Findings highlight the need for tailored approaches at the intersections of income and occupation when addressing epidemics of novel and resurging respiratory pathogens.
Timeliness of 24 childhood immunisations and evolution of vaccination delay: Analysis of data from 54 low- and middle-income countries
Authors: Derqui Nieves , Blake Isobel M. , Gray Elizabeth J. , Cooper Laura V. , Grassly Nicholas C. , Pons-Salort Margarita , Gaythorpe Katy A. M.
Published: November 2024

Vaccination timeliness is often not considered among standard performance indicators of routine vaccination programmes, such as vaccination coverage, yet quantifying vaccination delay could inform policies to promote in-time vaccination and help design vaccination schedules. Here, we analysed vaccination timeliness for 24 routine childhood immunisations for 54 countries. We extracted individual vaccination status and timing from Demographic and Health Surveys data from 54 countries with surveys from 2010 onwards. Individual data was used to estimate age at vaccination for <5 year-old children. Recommended age of vaccination for each country and vaccine was compared to the age at vaccination to determine vaccination delay. The evolution of vaccination delay over time was described using estimates from different birth cohorts. To identify socio-demographic indicators associated with delayed vaccination, we used multivariable Cox regression models with country as random effect and estimated the Hazard Ratio for vaccination with each vaccine-dose for each week post recommended vaccination age. Vaccine coverage at the recommended age was highest for birth and first doses (e.g. 50.5% BCG, 18.5% DTP-D1) and lowest for later doses (e.g. 5.5% DTP-D3, 16.3% MCV-D1, 8.2% MCV-D2). Median delay was lowest for birth doses, e.g. BCG (1 week (IQR: 0 to 4)), and it increased with later doses in vaccination courses: 1 (0, 4) week for DTP-D1 versus 4 (2, 9) weeks for DTP-D3. Although the median delay for each vaccine-dose remained largely constant over time, the range of delay estimates moderately decreased. Children living in rural areas, their countries’ poorer wealth quintiles and whose mothers had no formal education were more likely to received delayed vaccinations. Although we report most children are vaccinated within the recommended age window, we found little reduction on routine immunisation delays over the last decade and that children from deprived socioeconomic backgrounds are more likely to receive delayed vaccinations.