bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
China-India contemporary relations: Geopolitical challenges to the small states in South Asia
Authors: Pulami Manish Jung
Published: November 2022

Background: The two Asian giants, India and China, have shown unprecedented growth and development in recent decades. The bilateral relationship between them has experienced turbulences, even wars, but their trade and economic relations date centuries back. These characteristics of cooperation and conflict between India and China with aspirations to become major powers globally have tuned up the competitiveness, along with collaborations in some areas, conflicts and contestations in others. This unique relationship with antagonistic cooperation has implications for South Asian states, particularly the small states.

Methods: Realising the research gap on a complete view of contemporary India-China relations and its future repercussions in South Asia, the study hypothesises that the contemporary India-China relations not only have consequences but also brings challenges to the small states in South Asia. The paper primarily focuses on present China-India relations and the geopolitical challenges to the South Asian small states. Hence, it is crucial to comprehend ‘What is the nature and pattern of contemporary China-India relations?’ and ‘What are the geopolitical challenges to the small states because of this unforeseen relation?’

The study revisits the historical relationship between India and China examining the trend of collaborations and contestations between them. It also discusses the increasing forays of China in South Asia and the deepening US-India relationship to counter those looming Chinese influences.

Results: Notably, the research identifies severe geopolitical challenges for South Asian small states because of those fluctuations in the relationship. The rise of China and deepening India-USA ties have equally added fuel to the geopolitical competition between India and China. Although there is immense competition, the two countries cooperate in the economic domains. Also, the study points out the challenges for the small states evolving due to the major power politics in and near the region.
THE EFFECT OF HORMONAL TREATMENTS ON THE PREGNANCY RATES OF MARES
Authors: Solodowa Elena V. , Kalinova Anna V.
Published: November 2022

To determine the effect of hormonal drugs on the pregnancy rates of mares, authors analyzed this indicator in natural (n=303) and stimulated cycles (n=170). They used cloprostenol preparations to shorten the diestral period, and human chorionic gonadotropin [hCG] to induce ovulation. Natural cycles are divided into groups, depending on the duration – normal and short (19–24 and 12–18 days, respectively). Stimulated cycles for the following groups: (1) short (8–18 days); (2) normal (19–24 days) with the use of cloprostenol and hCG; (3) normal – with the use of hCG only. Short, both natural and stimulated cycles, are divided into groups – with normal (4–6 days) and short estrus (2–3 days). The analysis of natural and stimulated cycles showed that the level of pregnancy rates in stimulated cycles (73.5%–80.8%) corresponds to this indicator in normal natural cycles (79.6%). In natural short cycles, the pregnancy rate significantly decreases (26.3% ± 7.1%). When analyzing short cycles, it turned out that, both in natural and stimulated cycles, the pregnancy rate depends on the length of the estrus and decreases in cycles with a short estrus. In general, the difference in pregnancy rates was 41.0% (p ≤ 0.001). In short stimulated cycles, with an estrus length of 4–6 days, the pregnancy rate is higher (91.5% ± 4.06%) than in cycles with an estrus of 2–3 days (51.7% ± 9.3%). Thus, the shortening of the estrous period in stimulated cycles has a significant effect on the pregnancy rate.
The Results of Non-Parametric Correlation Assessment of the Innovative Development of the Regions of the Russian Federation
Authors: Averina Tatyana
Published: November 2022

The article presents an assessment of the relationship of qualitative indicators characterizing the degree of innovative development of regions and the level of labor productivity. As an analytical tool, the Pearson criterion was used to assess the correlation of nonparametric indicators. The study resulted in a conclusion about a positive correlation, which is important for the analysis of programs for the long-term development of regions.
Improving Library Service Delivery by the Instrumentality of Knowledge Management Practices: A Critical Review
Authors: Igbinovia Magnus Osahon
Published: November 2022

Purpose: The paper critically examines the nexus between Knowledge Management Practices (KMP) and service delivery in libraries through a detailed review of relevant literature. Special attention was placed on university libraries given their relatively robust system and structures for KMP. The paper also explores how the Socialization, Externalization, Combination and Internalization (SECI) model of Knowledge Management (KM) serves as a tool for the improvement of service delivery in libraries.
Method: The approach employed in this study is the critical review of literature.
Result: The effective management of knowledge reflected in its creation, organization, sharing and use significantly influences service delivery in libraries. Also, the paper revealed that the SECI model serves as an effective guide in adopting KMP for the improvement of service delivery in libraries.
Conclusion: KMP is an influencing factor in the improvement of service delivery in libraries regardless of their type and size.
Smartphones and social media as status symbol of Gen Z
Authors: Szabó Dóra , Dani Erzsébet
Published: November 2022

Smartphones have led to the formation of new habits and behavioral patterns and are the most widespread infocommunication tool today. They also appear as status symbols among the Z and Alpha generations. This tool performs an important role in the lives of the younger generation and impacts social media platforms; which has led to further questions. This is a particularly important topic nowadays because the area of media awareness does not only refer to the family, but also encompasses educational institutions that contribute to the promotion of conscious use of the media. A PILOT survey was used with the goal of mapping out how students relate to their phones. This survey was the right choice because it is one of the cornerstones of education for proper media behavior and critical thinking. In the course of the research, I asked young people aged 13-19 what they thought about status symbols, how they related to their smartphones, what role they took on social media when they encounter a multitude of influencers.
Más allá del rito
Authors: Cuenca Salvador
Published: November 2022

Ferlosio explica que los ritos protegen los límites y nos defienden de lo que está más allá de la frontera, de lo desconocido. La ritualización académica también. ¿Cuál sería hoy en 2022 el límite del que los mandarines de la academia nos protegen al esconderlo y que los saberes humanísticos nos revelan? El límite de la utilidad y del interés. A partir del más acá de la crítica aristotélica a lo interesado, miraremos al más allá de la identidad, de la patria y del argumento, de la mano de un asceta laico que agitó la tiniebla antes de usarla: Rafael Sánchez Ferlosio.
Cardiomyopathy and dentistry
Authors: Kaka Shazia , Couzens Sarah , Boyle Carole Ann
Published: November 2022

This article considers the clinical implications of cardiomyopathy and how it impacts on the provision of oral care. Consideration is given to the management of pain and anxiety in this patient group and the provision of safe, effective care.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: With an increasingly ageing population, dentists should have the knowledge to safely assess and treat medically compromised patients.
Endodontic surgery. Part 1: an overview
Authors: Jackson Nicholas , Bryce Graeme , George Geoffrey St , Kalsi Poonam
Published: November 2022

Surgical root canal re-treatment (SRCReT) or root-end surgery is the surgical endodontic technique most commonly studied and undertaken in clinical practice. A range of diagnostic, emergency and corrective surgical procedures may be included under the umbrella of endodontic surgery. The first article in this two-part series uses the best available evidence and clinical examples to provide the clinician with an overview of endodontic surgery.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: An updated review of endodontic surgical techniques is of relevance to clinicians.
Scleroderma and its oral implications
Authors: Saeed Khadeeja , Kumar Navdeep
Published: November 2022

Scleroderma is an autoimmune condition of the connective tissue. It encompasses a range of disorders that can affect the face, skin, limbs and internal organs. Common dental manifestations include xerostomia, dysphagia, microstomia, thickened and tight facial skin and tongue rigidity. This article describes how scleroderma can severely impact and compromise oral health. This can occur due to the restricting nature of sclerodactyly and microstomia seen in severe forms of the disease. Dental professionals must be mindful of this condition and its common oral manifestations. Techniques of how to recognize and manage these patients are discussed.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: The dental and oral health implications of scleroderma are relevant to clinical practice.
Xerostomia. Part 1: aetiology and oral manifestations
Authors: Mehrabi Farima , Shanahan Dáire , Davis Gemma
Published: November 2022

Xerostomia is the subjective sensation of a dry mouth. It can negatively impact oral health and quality of life. The underlying aetiology consists of both local and systemic factors. This two-part series aims to comprehensively review the aetiology and oral manifestations involved with xerostomia.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: Early recognition and management of xerostomia is important to limit the adverse effects of this condition
The incidence of musculoskeletal injuries: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ponkilainen Ville , Kuitunen Ilari , Liukkonen Rasmus , Vaajala Matias , Reito Aleksi , Uimonen Mikko
Published: November 2022

Aims

The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to gather epidemiological information on selected musculoskeletal injuries and to provide pooled injury-specific incidence rates.

Methods

PubMed (National Library of Medicine) and Scopus (Elsevier) databases were searched. Articles were eligible for inclusion if they reported incidence rate (or count with population at risk), contained data on adult population, and were written in English language. The number of cases and population at risk were collected, and the pooled incidence rates (per 100,000 person-years) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated by using either a fixed or random effects model.

Results

The screening of titles yielded 206 articles eligible for inclusion in the study. Of these, 173 (84%) articles provided sufficient information to be included in the pooled incidence rates. Incidences of fractures were investigated in 154 studies, and the most common fractures in the whole adult population based on the pooled incidence rates were distal radius fractures (212.0, 95% CI 178.1 to 252.4 per 100,000 person-years), finger fractures (117.1, 95% CI 105.3 to 130.2 per 100,000 person-years), and hip fractures (112.9, 95% CI 82.2 to 154.9 per 100,000 person-years). The most common sprains and dislocations were ankle sprains (429.4, 95% CI 243.0 to 759.0 per 100,000 person-years) and first-time patellar dislocations (32.8, 95% CI 21.6 to 49.7 per 100,000 person-years). The most common injuries were anterior cruciate ligament (17.5, 95% CI 6.0 to 50.2 per 100,000 person-years) and Achilles (13.7, 95% CI 9.6 to 19.5 per 100,000 person-years) ruptures.

Conclusion

The presented pooled incidence estimates serve as important references in assessing the global economic and social burden of musculoskeletal injuries. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2022;11(11):814–825.
Biomass ashes as potential raw materials for mineral wool manufacture: initial studies of glass structure and chemistry
Authors:   Sheffield Hallam University, Backhouse Daniel J. , Guilbot Adrien ,   Université de Rouen Normandie, Scrimshire Alex , Eales James D. , Deng Wei , Bell Anthony M. T. , Kabir Feroz , Marshall Martyn ,   Glass Technology Services Ltd, Ireson Robert ,   Glass Futures Ltd, Bingham Paul A.
Published: November 2022

The energy intensive and CO2-generating nature of commercial mineral wool and glass production necessitates advances and changes in materials and processes. The derivation of raw materials from waste products arising from biomass energy generation offers the possibility of a two-fold environmental benefit: partial replacement of carbonate raw minerals in production, leading to lower CO2 release during melting; and the utilisation and valorisation of byproducts which may otherwise be sent to landfill. Glass samples with a basaltic mineral wool composition were produced with additions to the raw materials of 0, 1, 5 and 10 wt% of a fly ash and a bottom ash arising from biomass combustion. The resulting glasses were analysed by x-ray fluorescence, x-ray diffraction, dilatometry, 57Fe Mössbauer and Raman spectroscopies, and their densities, molar volumes and viscosity–temperature profiles were calculated and compared against benchmark glass samples. All biomass ash-containing glasses were closely similar in both composition and properties to the benchmark glass, with up to 10 wt% ash additions to the raw materials. In addition, the use of the biomass fly ash led to a reduction in batch CO2 content estimated to be 1·5 kg CO2 per tonne of batch for each 1 wt% addition. These initial results provide evidence supporting the further development of these ash materials as potential value-added raw materials for mineral wool manufacture.
Theoretical analysis of quantum key distribution systems when integrated with a DWDM optical transport network
Authors: Vorontsova Irina , Goncharov Roman , Tarabrina Angelina , Kiselev Fedor , Egorov Vladimir
Published: November 2022

Theoretical research and numerical simulation of the noise influence caused by spontaneous Raman scattering, four-wave mixing, and linear channel cross talk on the performances of quantum key distribution (QKD) systems were conducted. Three types of QKD systems were considered: a coherent one-way QKD protocol, subcarrier-wave QKD system, and continuous-variable QKD integrated with classical dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM) channels. We calculate the secure key generation rate for the systems mentioned addressing different channel allocation schemes (i.e., configurations). A uniform DWDM grid is considered with a quantum channel located in the C-band and O-band (at 1310 nm) of a telecommunication window. The systems’ performances are analyzed in terms of the maximal achievable distance values. Configurations for further analysis and investigation are chosen optimally, i.e., their maximal achievable distances are the best.
Transmission properties of grating-gate GaN-based HEMTs under different incident angles in the mid-infrared region
Authors: Cai Ming , Liu Hongxia , Wang Shulong , Wang Yindi , Wang Dong , Su Mengwei
Published: November 2022

The absorption tunability of grating-gate GaN-based HEMTs in the mid-infrared region has been confirmed in wide frequency regions. However, the application potential of grating-gate GaN-based HEMTs is limited due to a lack of study on transmission properties under different incident angles. Therefore, this paper studied the transmission characteristics of grating-gate GaN-based HEMTs under different incident angles in the mid-infrared region. By using the optical transfer matrix approach to model the dispersion characteristics in the structure, we found that the stronger plasmon polaritons and phonon polaritons occur in conductive channel and GaN layer. The variation of different incident wave vectors with incident angle affects the plasmon polaritons and phonon polaritons excitation intensities, resulting in the angular tunability transmission properties of grating-gate GaN-based HEMTs. After simulating the electric field distribution in COMSOL, the different transmission properties of grating-gate GaN-based HEMTs occur under different incident angles. Simulated results reveal the excellent angle-selectivity in grating-gate GaN-based HEMTs. The research into these characteristics shows that the structure has a lot of promise for designing mid-infrared angle selection filters, sensors, and other subwavelength devices in the future.
Time delay interferometry with a transfer oscillator
Authors: Wu Hanzhong , Xu Mingyang , Wang Panpan , Zhang Zhenqi , Fang Pengcheng , Tan Yujie , Zhang Jie , Chen Qunfeng , Lu Zehuang , Shao Chenggang
Published: November 2022

In this work, we experimentally perform time delay interferometry by using a transfer oscillator, which is capable of reducing the laser frequency noise and the clock noise simultaneously in the post processing. The iodine frequency reference is coherently downconverted to the microwave frequency using a laser frequency comb. The residual noise of the downconversion network is 5 × 10−6Hz/Hz1/2 at 0.7 mHz, and 4 × 10−6Hz/Hz1/2 at 0.1 Hz, indicating high homology between the optical frequency and the microwave frequency. We carry out time delay interferometry with the aid of the electrical delay module, which can introduce large time delays. The results show that the laser frequency noise and the clock noise can be reduced simultaneously by ten and three orders of magnitude, respectively, in the frequency band from 0.1 mHz to 0.1 Hz. The performance of the noise reduction can reach 6 × 10−8Hz/Hz1/2 at 0.1 mHz, and 7 × 10−7Hz/Hz1/2 at 1 mHz, meeting the requirements of the space-borne gravitational wave detection. Our work will be able to offer an alternative method for the frequency comb-based time delay interferometry in the future space-borne gravitational wave detectors.
One-joule 500-Hz cryogenic Yb:YAG laser driver of composite thin-disk design
Authors: Zapata L. E. , Pergament M. , Schust M. , Reuter S. , Thesinga J. , Zapata C. , Kellert M. , Demirbas U. , Calendron A.-L. , Liu Y. , Kärtner F. X.
Published: November 2022

We present results on the development of a cryogenic Yb:YAG multi-pass laser amplifier based on a composite thin-disk design and demonstrate one-joule, diffraction limited, chirped 234-ps pulses with 50% optical-to-optical efficiency. High beam quality was obtained for repetition rates up to 400 Hz. The hardware was disassembled and thoroughly inspected after accumulating 80 hours of use at repetition rates from 100 to 500 Hz and exhibited no signs of damage. This laser driver is now commissioned to a dedicated laboratory where a grating compressor is producing 5.2-ps pulses used in the development of a compact x ray source based on inverse Compton scattering.
Region-specific laboratory reference intervals are important: A systematic review of the data from Africa
Authors: Price Matt A. , Fast Patricia E. , Mshai Mercy , Lambrick Maureen , Machira Yvonne Wangũi , Gieber Lisa , Chetty Paramesh , Muturi-Kioi Vincent
Published: November 2022

Region-specific laboratory reference intervals (RIs) are important for clinical trials and these data are often sparse in priority areas for research, including Africa. We reviewed data on RIs from Africa to identify gaps in the literature with a systematic review of PubMed for RI studies from Africa published ≥2010. Search focus included clinical analytic chemistry, hematology, immunological parameters and RIs. Data from adults, adolescents, children, pregnant women, and the elderly were included. We excluded manuscripts reporting data from persons with conditions that might preclude clinical trial participation in studies enrolling healthy volunteers. Of 179 identified manuscripts, 80 were included in this review, covering 20 countries with the largest number of studies in Ethiopia (n = 23, 29%). Most studies considered healthy, nonpregnant adults (n = 55, 69%). Nine (11%) studies included pregnant women, 13 (16%) included adolescents and 22 (28%) included children. Recruitment, screening, enrollment procedures and definition of age strata varied across studies. The most common type of RIs reported were hematology (66, 83%); 14 studies (18%) included flow cytometry and/or T cell counts. Other common tests or panels included liver function assays (32, 40%), renal function assays (30, 38%), lipid chemistries (17, 21%) and serum electrolytes (17, 21%). The number of parameters characterized ranged from only one (three studies characterized either CD4+ counts, D-dimer, or hemoglobin), to as many as 40. Statistical methods for calculating RIs varied. 56 (70%) studies compared their results to international RI databases. Though most presented their data side-by-side with international data with little accompanying analysis, nearly all reported deviation from comparator RI data, sometimes with half or more of otherwise healthy participants having an “out of range” result. We found there is limited local RI data available in sub-Saharan Africa. Studies to fill this gap are warranted, including efforts to standardize statistical methods to derive RIs, methods to compare with other RIs, and improve representative participant selection.
Research on the temporal evolution track and influence of green development from 2010 to 2019
Authors: Chen Yunfang , Ji Xuan , Lai Qingkui
Published: November 2022

This study aims to analyze the balance and coordination during green and sustainable development and estimates the evolution track of the green development system from 2010–2019. The projection pursuit model (PPM), as well as the system gray prediction model GM (1, N) and other measurement methods, were used to construct an evaluation system accounting for green fortune, growth, and benefits to analyze the temporal evolution, developmental trends, and influencing factors of the ecological engineering construction area in Baoshan, Yunnan Province. The results revealed a relatively good green development system, with an upward trend, an average growth rate of 18.3%, and a synergistic coupling effect among the three subsystems. Regional green development has achieved remarkable progress, but challenges and pressure among the three subsystems remain. The prediction analysis also showed that the green development index in Baoshan will continue to increase over the next two years, suggesting that the regional green development system is effective. Green development is primarily affected by environmental pollution, industrial structure, urbanization, population, market, and other factors from the three subsystems of ecology, economy, and social benefits. This study provides practical reference values for prompting regional ecological advancement and green development, along with regional support for the post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework and the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Extracellular vesicles from focal segmental glomerulosclerosis pediatric patients induce STAT3 activation and mesangial cell proliferation
Authors: Pekkucuksen Naile T. , Liu Lauren P. , Aly Rasha , Shoemaker Lawrence R. , Alli Abdel A.
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Primary focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), a major cause of end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) in adolescents and young adults, is attributable to recognized genetic mutations in a minority of cases. For the majority with idiopathic primary FSGS, the cause of the disease is unknown. We hypothesize that extracellular vesicle (EVs), that carry information between podocytes and mesangial cells, may play a key role in disease progression.

Material & methods

A total of 30 participants (20 primary nephrotic syndrome/ 10 healthy controls) were enrolled in this study. Primary nephrotic syndrome subjects were grouped based on pathologic diagnosis. The FSGS group was compared to healthy control subjects based on demographic and clinical findings. EVs were isolated from the urine of each group before being characterized by Western blotting, transmission electron microscopy, and nanoparticle tracking analysis. The effects of the EVs from each group on normal human mesangial cells and activation of certain pathways were then investigated.

Results

Based on demographic and clinical findings, mean serum creatinine was significantly higher in the FSGS group than the normal healthy control group. The mean size of the EVs in the FSGS group was significantly higher than the healthy control group. The mesangial cells that were challenged with EVs isolated from FSGS patients showed significant upregulation of STAT-3, PCNA, Ki67, and cell proliferation.

Discussion

Our data demonstrate that EVs from FSGS patients stimulate mesangial cell proliferation in association with upregulation of the phospho-STAT-3 pathway. Additional studies are planned to identify the molecular cargo within the EVs from FSGS patients that contribute to the pathogenesis of FSGS.
The influence of successor’s implicit power and explicit power on dual innovation———The mediating effect of board dissent
Authors: Feifei Wang , Jiong Wu , Russo Marcello , Gao Luyang
Published: November 2022

This study explores the influence of the power of family business successors on firm innovation under the theory of social embeddedness. Based on the 2000–2019 unbalanced panel data of listed Chinese family enterprises, this study empirically examines the differences in the influence of the implicit and explicit power of successors on incremental and radical innovation respectively. Our findings show that explicit power has a more positive impact on incremental innovation, while implicit power is more conducive to promoting radical innovation. In addition, the study finds that the reason why the explicit power of succession does not have a significant impact on radical innovation, that is, the reason why board dissent is not related to radical innovation, is that some of the major innovation decisions in the enterprise are not all made at formal meetings. The research conclusions not only extend the theoretical application of social embeddedness in family enterprises, but also provide certain practical guidance for promoting enterprise innovation.
Network diffusion of gender diversity on boards: A process of two-speed opposing forces
Authors: Gimeno Ricardo , Mateos de Cabo Ruth , Grau Pilar , Gabaldon Patricia
Published: November 2022

Network diffusion processes or how information spreads through networks have been widely examined in numerous disciplines such as epidemiology, physics, sociology, politics, or computer science. In this paper, we extend previous developments by considering a generalization of the diffusion by considering the possibility of differences in the speed of diffusion and reduction depending on the forces’ directions. In this situation, the differential speed of diffusion produces deviations from the standard solution around the average of the initial conditions in the network. In fact, this asymmetry gives rise to non-linear dynamics in which, contrary to the symmetric case, the final solution depends on the topology of the graph as well as on the distribution of the initial values. Counter-intuitively, less central nodes in the network are able to exert a higher influence on the final solution. This behavior applies also for different simulated networks such as random, small-world, and scale-free. We show an example of this kind of asymmetric diffusion process in a real case. To do so, we use a network of US Boards of Directors, where boards are the nodes and the directors working for more than one board, are the links. Changes in the proportion of women serving on each board are influenced by the gradient between adjacent boards. We also show that there is an asymmetry: the gradient is reduced at a slower (faster) rhythm if the board has less (more) women than neighboring boards. We are able to quantify the accumulated effect of this asymmetry from 2000 to 2015 in the overall proportion of women on boards, in a 4.7 percentage points (the proportion should have been an 14.61% instead of the observed 9.93% in 2015).
Vitamin D and rosuvastatin alleviate type-II diabetes-induced cognitive dysfunction by modulating neuroinflammation and canonical/noncanonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling
Authors: Muneeb Muhammad , Mansou Suzan M. , Saleh Samira , Mohammed Reham A.
Published: November 2022

Background

Type-II diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a major risk factor for cognitive impairment. Protecting the brain environment against inflammation, and neurodegeneration, as well as preservation of the BBB veracity through modulating the crosstalk between insulin/AKT/GSK-3β and Wnt/β-catenin signaling, might introduce novel therapeutic targets.

Purpose

This study aimed at exploring the possible neuroprotective potential of vitamin D3 (VitD) and/or rosuvastatin (RSV) in T2DM-induced cognitive deficits.

Methods

T2DM was induced by a high-fat sucrose diet and a single streptozotocin (STZ) dose. Diabetic rats were allocated into a diabetic control and three groups treated with RSV (15 mg/kg/day, PO), VitD (500 IU/kg/day, PO), or their combination.

Results

Administration of VitD and/or RSV mitigated T2DM-induced metabolic abnormalities and restored the balance between the anti-inflammatory, IL 27 and the proinflammatory, IL 23 levels in the hippocampus. In addition, they markedly activated both the canonical and noncanonical Wnt/β-catenin cassettes with stimulation of their downstream molecular targets. VitD and/or RSV upregulated insulin and α7 nicotinic acetylcholine (α7nACh) receptors gene expression, as well as blood-brain barrier integrity markers including Annexin A1, claudin 3, and VE-cadherin. Also, they obliterated hippocampal ApoE-4 content, Tau hyperphosphorylation, and Aβ deposition. These biochemical changes were reflected as improved behavioral performance in Morris water maze and novel object recognition tests and restored hippocampal histological profile.

Conclusion

The current findings have accentuated the neuroprotective potential of VitD and RSV and provide new incentives to expand their use in T2DM-induced cognitive and memory decline. This study also suggests a superior benefit of combining both treatments over either drug alone.
Communication interventions for medically unexplained symptom conditions in general practice: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials
Authors: Byrne Ailish Katherine , Scantlebury Arabella , Jones Katherine , Doherty Laura , Torgerson David J.
Published: November 2022

Background

Medically unexplained symptoms (MUS) account for 3–50% of all General Practitioner (GP) consultations and are difficult to diagnose due to their unknown aetiology, symptom overlap between conditions, and lack of effective treatment options. MUS patients’ and primary care clinicians frequently face challenges during consultations, with GPs reporting difficulty identifying and classifying MUS, whilst patients report stigma and feeling illegitimised by clinicians. Communication interventions have been proposed as a method to facilitate the doctor-patient relationship and aid the management of MUS.

Aim

This systematic review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of primary care based communication interventions at improving MUS patients’ and/or clinician outcomes.

Method

Four electronic databases were searched from inception to November 2021. Two researchers independently undertook screening, data extraction and quality appraisal. Given the heterogeneous nature of the studies identified, narrative syntheses were conducted, along with meta-analyses where possible to pool data.

Results

9 papers from 10 Randomised Controlled Trials were included. The included studies displayed considerable risk of bias and poor reporting. Some limited evidence suggests that communication interventions tailored to MUS and not following a pre-specified model (such as reattribution) could improve pain, mental and physical functioning whilst reattribution training may improve clinician confidence treating MUS. However, methodological limitations mean that these findings should be interpreted with caution.

Conclusion

A range of interventions for improving communication with MUS patients in primary care have been evaluated. However, the heterogeneous nature of existing evidence and poor study quality mean we cannot conclude whether these interventions are effective. Before considering further randomised controlled trials researchers should focus on developing a new or modified communication intervention for MUS patients and their clinicians.

Trail registration

The systematic review was prospectively registered with PROSPERO (registration record CRD42020206437).
Risk factors for mechanical ventilation and ECMO in COVID-19 patients admitted to the ICU: A multicenter retrospective observational study
Authors: Takada Ryo , Takazawa Tomonori , Takahashi Yoshihiko , Fujizuka Kenji , Akieda Kazuki , Saito Shigeru
Published: November 2022

Background

The primary purpose of this study was to investigate risk factors associated with the need for mechanical ventilation (MV) and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) in COVID-19 patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU).

Methods

We retrospectively enrolled 66 consecutive COVID-19 patients admitted to the ICUs of three Japanese institutions from February 2020 to January 2021. We performed logistic regression analyses to identify risk factors associated with subsequent MV and ECMO requirements. Further, multivariate analyses were performed following adjustment for Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II scores.

Results

At ICU admission, the risk factors for subsequent MV identified were: higher age (Odds Ratio (OR) 1.04, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 1.00–1.08, P = 0.03), higher values of APACHE II score (OR 1.20, 95% CI 1.08–1.33, P < 0.001), Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score (OR 1.53, 95% CI 1.18–1.97, P < 0.001), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) (OR 1.01, 95% CI 1.00–1.02, p<0.001) and C-reactive protein (OR 1.09, 95% CI 1.00–1.19, P = 0.04), and lower values of lymphocytes (OR 1.00, 95% CI 1.00–1.00, P = 0.02) and antithrombin (OR 0.95, 95% CI 0.91–0.95, P < 0.01). Patients who subsequently required ECMO showed lower values of estimated glomerular filtration rate (OR 0.98, 95% CI 0.96–1.00, P = 0.04) and antithrombin (OR 0.94, 95% CI 0.88–1.00, P = 0.03) at ICU admission. Multivariate analysis showed that higher body mass index (OR 1.19, 95% CI 1.00–1.40, P = 0.04) and higher levels of LDH (OR 1.01, 95% CI 1.01–1.02, P < 0.01) were independent risk factors for the need for MV. Lower level of antithrombin (OR 0.94, 95% CI 0.88–1.00, P = 0.03) was a risk factor for the need for ECMO.

Conclusion

We showed that low antithrombin level at ICU admission might be a risk factor for subsequent ECMO requirements, in addition to other previously reported factors.
Antibiotic tolerance and persistence have distinct fitness trade-offs
Authors: Michaux Charlotte , Ronneau Séverin , Giorgio Rachel T. , Helaine Sophie
Published: November 2022

Genetically susceptible bacteria can escape the action of bactericidal antibiotics through antibiotic tolerance or persistence. However, one major difference between the two phenomena is their distinct penetrance within an isogenic population. While with antibiotic persistence, susceptible and persister cells co-exist, antibiotic tolerance affects the entire bacterial population. Here, we show that antibiotic tolerance can be achieved in numerous non-specific ways in vitro and during infection. More importantly, we highlight that, due to their impact on the entire bacterial population, these tolerance-inducing conditions completely mask persistence and the action of its molecular determinants. Finally, we show that even though tolerant populations display a high survival rate under bactericidal drug treatment, this feature comes at the cost of having impaired proliferation during infection. In contrast, persistence is a risk-limiting strategy that allows bacteria to survive antibiotic treatment without reducing the ability of the population to colonize their host. Altogether, our data emphasise that the distinction between these phenomena is of utmost importance to improve the design of more efficient antibiotic therapies.
The herpes simplex virus tegument protein pUL21 is required for viral genome retention within capsids
Authors: Thomas Ethan C. M. , Bossert Maike , Banfield Bruce W.
Published: November 2022

During virion morphogenesis herpes simplex virus nucleocapsids transit from the nucleoplasm to the cytoplasm, through a process called nuclear egress, where the final stages of virion assembly occur. Coupled to nuclear egress is a poorly understood quality-control mechanism that preferentially selects genome-containing C-capsids, rather than A- and B-capsids that lack genomes, for transit to the cytoplasm. We and others have reported that cells infected with HSV strains deleted for the tegument protein pUL21 accumulate both empty A-capsids and C-capsids in the cytoplasm of infected cells. Quantitative microscopy experiments indicated that C-capsids were preferentially selected for envelopment at the inner nuclear membrane and that nuclear integrity remained intact in cells infected with pUL21 mutants, prompting alternative explanations for the accumulation of A-capsids in the cytoplasm. More A-capsids were also found in the nuclei of cells infected with pUL21 mutants compared to their wild type (WT) counterparts, suggesting pUL21 might be required for optimal genome packaging or genome retention within capsids. In support of this, more viral genomes were prematurely released into the cytoplasm during pUL21 mutant infection compared to WT infection and led to enhanced activation of cellular cytoplasmic DNA sensors. Mass spectrometry and western blot analysis of WT and pUL21 mutant capsids revealed an increased association of the known pUL21 binding protein, pUL16, with pUL21 mutant capsids, suggesting that premature and/or enhanced association of pUL16 with capsids might result in capsid destabilization. Further supporting this idea, deletion of pUL16 from a pUL21 mutant strain rescued genome retention within capsids. Taken together, these findings suggest that pUL21 regulates pUL16 addition to nuclear capsids and that premature, and/or, over-addition of pUL16 impairs HSV genome retention within capsids.
Aspergillus fumigatus Elongator complex subunit 3 affects hyphal growth, adhesion and virulence through wobble uridine tRNA modification
Authors: Zhang Yuanwei , Wang Yamei , Fan Jialu , Zhu Guoxing , Lu Ling
Published: November 2022

The eukaryotic multisubunit Elongator complex has been shown to perform multiple functions in transcriptional elongation, histone acetylation and tRNA modification. However, the Elongator complex plays different roles in different organisms, and the underlying mechanisms remain unexplored. Moreover, the biological functions of the Elongator complex in human fungal pathogens remain unknown. In this study, we verified that the Elongator complex of the opportunistic fungal pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus consists of six subunits (Elp1-6), and the loss of any subunit results in similarly defective colony phenotypes with impaired hyphal growth and reduced conidiation. The catalytic subunit-Elp3 of the Elongator complex includes a S-adenosyl methionine binding (rSAM) domain and a lysine acetyltransferase (KAT) domain, and it plays key roles in the hyphal growth, biofilm-associated exopolysaccharide galactosaminogalactan (GAG) production, adhesion and virulence of A. fumigatus; however, Elp3 does not affect H3K14 acetylation levels in vivo. LC–MS/MS chromatograms revealed that loss of Elp3 abolished the 5-methoxycarbonylmethyl-2-thiouridine (mcm5s2U) modification of tRNA wobble uridine (U34), and the overexpression of tRNAGlnUUG and tRNAGluUUC, which normally harbor mcm5s2U modifications, mainly rescues the defects of the Δelp3 mutant, suggesting that tRNA modification rather than lysine acetyltransferase is responsible for the primary function of Elp3 in A. fumigatus. Strikingly, global proteomic comparison analyses showed significantly upregulated expression of genes related to amino acid metabolism in the Δelp3 mutant strain compared to the wild-type strain. Western blotting showed that deletion of elp3 resulted in overexpression of the amino acid starvation-responsive transcription factor CpcA, and deletion of CpcA markedly reversed the defective phenotypes of the Δelp3 mutant, including attenuated virulence. Therefore, the findings of this study demonstrate that A. fumigatus Elp3 functions as a tRNA-modifying enzyme in the regulation of growth, GAG production, adhesion and virulence by maintaining intracellular amino acid homeostasis. More broadly, our study highlights the importance of U34 tRNA modification in regulating cellular metabolic states and virulence traits of fungal pathogens.
Legumes in a sustainable healthy diet: (How) to be or not to be, that is the question
Authors: Ibsen Daniel Borch , Mogensen Lisbeth , Corredig Milena , Dahm Christina Catherine
Published: November 2022

One of the staple foods in a healthy and sustainable diet is legumes. As such, new dietary guidelines around the globe now include higher intakes of legumes. For example, the most recent Danish dietary guidelines recommend a daily intake of 100 g of cooked legumes. This is, however, far from current intakes. The question is then, how should legumes be (or not be) designed to enable this grand dietary transition necessary to contribute to current global sustainability goals? One option has been to produce legume-based meat alternatives. But is this the only way to go? In this opinion, we debate this solution. We outline the processing, health and climate aspect of legume product consumption and argue that we do not have the right information to be able to appropriately design future legume-based foods. We conclude that processing must be part of the solution as we also need to replace red meat with legumes and re-design traditional meals to include legumes or legume products. Finally, to create the necessary lasting impact for planetary and population health, further dimensions such as food culture, equitability and affordability should also be in focus.
Nascent entrepreneurship : A bibliometric analysis and systematic literature review
Authors: Aranyossy Márta , Szabó Krisztofer
Published: November 2022

Nascent entrepreneurship studies contribute to the understanding of entrepreneurial intention of individuals which in turn has significant effects on economic growth and labour markets. This paper presents a systematic literature review of nascent entrepreneurship research focused articles published between 2000 and 2020 based on bibliometric analysis and quantitative and qualitative text analysis. A corpus of 257 journal articles was assembled to provide insights on the most important themes and trends in the research stream as well as focusing on the most prominent journal outlets and influential authors. In-depth examination of the 30 most cited articles serves as a basis for proposed systematisation of factors influencing nascent entrepreneurial intentions. A summary of promising research directions and emerging themes is also presented.
Phenotyping of Rot Fungi Associated with Spoilage of Stored Melon Seeds
Authors: Etaware Peter
Published: November 2022

Despite the dietary and medicinal importance of melon seeds used as food supplements and local therapy for mild infections in humans, melon seeds are vigorously affected by fungal pathogens while in storage. Conventional methods have been used to determine the identity of the pathogens (mostly fungi) responsible for spoilage of melon seeds but not much have been done in local markets within Lagos, Nigeria. Therefore, the current research was aimed at stereotyping postharvest spoilage fungi associated with shelled and unshelled melon seeds stored in major grocery markets within the suburban communities of Lagos State, Nigeria, in other to ascertain the level of biological threats and possibility of impending food poisoning expected to emanate from it (Etaware, 2019). Nine (9) pathogenic fungi were isolated from the diseased melon seeds and five (5) of the fungal strains (Aspergillus niger, A. flavus, Penicillium chrysogenum, Rhizopus oryzae and Cladosporium sp.) tested had severe spoilage effects on the inoculated disease-free melon seeds.
IMPORTANCE OF ELECTRICAL SAFETY MEASURES IN EVERY WORKPLACE
Authors: ADELAKUN NAJEEM OLAWALE
Published: November 2022

Safety is a vital trait that must be ensued in all activities of human life. However, life without electricity will be unimaginable, Similarly, electricity constitutes a larger part of workplace hazard such as electrocution, electric shock, explosions or fire causing burns. So, Electrical Safety requires adequate attention while planning, designing, installing, operating and maintaining electrical equipment and installations in any workplace. This paper examines various types of hazard related to electrical services in any workplace and necessary safety measures were suggested as stated in all the standard regulatory bodies to reduce future occurrence and also to boost energy efficiency.
EXPANDING PROTON FLASH CAPABILITIES TO kGy /s WITHIN ms FOR CLINICAL APPLICATIONS AT HZB
Authors: Kourkafas Georgios , Bundesmann Juergen , Denker Andrea , Dittwald Alina , Fanselow Timo , Heufelder Jens , Otman Mert , Weber Andreas
Published: November 2022

Background and aimsThe HZB Cyclotron facility is able to deliver proton FLASH irradiation, providing beamtime to Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin for in vivo and in vitro experiments. For these studies, a spread-out Bragg peak with a maximum dose rate of 100 Gy/s has been applied within 200 ms at a maximum energy of 68 MeV. Since then, various system upgrades have been implemented with the aim to increase the achieved dose rate and shorten the irradiation time. The involved components and their performance are presented below.

MethodsBetween the cyclotron and its injector, an electrostatic deflector has been installed, which is controlled by an FPGA board and acts as an adjustable beam shutter, providing irradiation times down to 1 ms. Within such short durations, the delivered beam intensity can be safely increased without damaging the vacuum window at the beam exit and without reaching the radiation safety limits. The increased dose rates from a mm-focused beam are then measured by an Advanced Markus Chamber (PTW-Freiburg, Germany) and monitored by an in-house developed transparent ionization chamber, connected to a UNIDOS webline electrometer (PTW-Freiburg, Germany).

ResultsBoth ionization chambers have shown a linear response with respect to the beam current for dose rates up to 4 kGy/s. An irradiation time of 1 ms has been achieved with a statistical fluctuation of 4%, while the clinical requirement of <2% dose uncertainty can be achieved with irradiation times longer than 2.5 ms.

ConclusionsThe updated FLASH capabilities of the HZB Cyclotron enable a reliable delivery, measurement and monitoring of proton dose rates in the order of several kGy/s within few ms. In combination with the available 3D range modulator, the parameter space for systematic clinical experiments is broadened remarkably.