bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pulsed electromagnetic fields for post-appendicectomy pain management: a randomized, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Perumal Muralitharan , Abdul Latib Aizatul Isla , Samy Malarvilee Paul , Zainal Abidin Mohd Rohisham bin , Nagandran Elanngovan , Wan Tham Sim , Francis Pamela , Foo Chee Yoong
Published: October 2022

Background

The value of pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) in postoperative pain management, due to the inconsistent findings so far, remains unclear. We extended the evaluation of PEMF on postoperative pain and intravenous (IV) analgesic use to a group of post-appendicectomy Asian patients.

Methods

This is a double-blinded, randomized trial. Adults with a clinical diagnosis of acute appendicitis were enrolled. Patients were allocated randomly to receive an active-PEMF device or an inactive device after the surgery in addition to the standard postoperative pain management. The primary outcome measure was the 12-h cumulative postoperative pain intensity measured at four different time points using the visual analogue scale. The secondary outcome measure was the total amount of IV fentanyl used (in mg) via PCA over the first 12 postoperative hours. The primary analysis in this trial compared the two study groups for the reported cumulative pain score (both at rest and on movement) and the cumulative amount of IV fentanyl uses over the first 12 postoperative hours using the Wilcoxon rank sum test. Analyses were performed based on the intention-to-treat principal. Multiple imputation was used to handle the missing data assuming that the data were missing at random.

Findings

One hundred eighteen subjects were randomized; 58 were allocated to the active-PEMF group and 60 to the inactive control group. Pooled mean pain score of both intervention groups by time point declined in a similar fashion over the course of 12 postoperative hours. The 12-h cumulative postoperative pain score at rest and on movement did not differ significantly after the procedure. (W = 1832.5 ~ 1933.0, p-value 0.6192 ~ 0.2985 for resting pain score comparison; W = 1737.0 ~ 1804.5, p-value 0.9892 ~ 0.7296 for movement pain score comparison). For the secondary outcome measure of 12-h total fentanyl use, a comparison between the PEMF vs. placebo arm also revealed no statistically significant difference across all the 20 imputed datasets (W = 1676.5 ~ 1859.0, p-value 0.7344 ~ 0.5234).

Discussion

PEMF was not superior to placebo as an adjunct pain management for up to 12 h post-appendicectomy. Previously reported effect of PEMF on postoperative pain intensity and analgesia uses in similar surgical settings cannot be verified.

Trial registration

National Medical Research Register Malaysia (NMRR-15–670-25,805) and Thai Clinical Trials Registry (retrospectively registered on November 01, 2019, Study ID—TCTR20191102002).
Kangyi Qiangshen Gong exercise prescription for pulmonary function and quality of life in patients recovered from COVID-19: a study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Guo Guangxin , Xu Xiruo , Yin Wong Yu , Zhang Kunyu , Hui Jacelyn Pang Min , Yee Janice Hiew Yuen , Heng Bryan Chung Qi , Qin Yuan , Yao Fei , Fang Min
Published: October 2022

Background

Since early 2022, patients with 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) infection have increased rapidly in Shanghai, China. Nevertheless, there is no widely used unified rehabilitation treatment available for discharged patients with post-infection sequelae such as dyspnea, depression, and fatigue. To promote the rehabilitation of discharged patients, our team formulated Kangyi Qiangshen Gong exercise prescription on the basis of traditional Chinese medicine rehabilitation exercises (TCMRE). We designed a randomized controlled trial to evaluate the efficacy of rehabilitation and advantages of KQG for discharged patients with post-COVID-19 syndrome.

Methods/design

This is a parallel-design, two-arm, analyst assessor-blinded, randomized controlled trial. In total, 60 discharged patients with COVID-19 sequelae, aged from 20 to 80 years will be recruited and randomly assigned to the World Health Organization instructed breathing techniques (BT) group and the Kangyi Qiangshen Gong exercise prescription (KQG) group at a ratio of 1:1. The patients in the BT group will perform breathing techniques exercise, and the patients in the KQG group will perform KQG exercise. Both groups will perform exercises twice a day for 3 months. The primary outcome will be measured with the Modified Medical Research Council Dyspnea Scale, and the secondary outcomes will include the Modified Borg Scale, Fatigue Scale-14, Patient Health Questionnaire-9 Scale, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and the Respiratory Symptoms Scale. Clinical scales will be assessed at three points (pre-exercise, 3 months post-exercise, and 3 months follow-up). Adverse events will be recorded for safety assessment.

Discussion

This trial will serve high-quality evidence of the value of KQG for treating discharged patients with COVID-19 in rehabilitation period.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR2200059504. Registered on 03 May 2022.

Dissemination

The results will be published in peer-reviewed journals and disseminated through the study’s website, and conferences.
Improving VAE based molecular representations for compound property prediction
Authors: Tevosyan Ani , Khondkaryan Lusine , Khachatrian Hrant , Tadevosyan Gohar , Apresyan Lilit , Babayan Nelly , Stopper Helga , Navoyan Zaven
Published: October 2022

Collecting labeled data for many important tasks in chemoinformatics is time consuming and requires expensive experiments. In recent years, machine learning has been used to learn rich representations of molecules using large scale unlabeled molecular datasets and transfer the knowledge to solve the more challenging tasks with limited datasets. Variational autoencoders are one of the tools that have been proposed to perform the transfer for both chemical property prediction and molecular generation tasks. In this work we propose a simple method to improve chemical property prediction performance of machine learning models by incorporating additional information on correlated molecular descriptors in the representations learned by variational autoencoders. We verify the method on three property prediction tasks. We explore the impact of the number of incorporated descriptors, correlation between the descriptors and the target properties, sizes of the datasets etc. Finally, we show the relation between the performance of property prediction models and the distance between property prediction dataset and the larger unlabeled dataset in the representation space.
An analytical assessment of industrial sector innovative management in the context of digitalization
Authors: Sherimova Nurzhanat , Isabekov Baurzhan , Alkeev Miras , Yermekova Zhanna , Ostryanina Tatyana
Published: October 2022

The accumulated potential in digitalization suggests the need to create a new paradigm for managing scientific-innovative and production-technological processes, which is reflected in the author’s article. In these conditions, there is the problem of developing a mechanism for innovative management of the industrial sector of the economy. The study aims to analyze statistical and analytical data of modern industrial sector management in the context of digitalization. By analytical, comparative, and statistical analysis of international innovation management approaches, according to the rating of the global innovation index 2020/2021 and business activity of technological leaders in Asia, North America, and Europe, the authors developed a methodological approach to improve the mechanism for implementing innovative management in industrial sector. The mechanism includes such core elements: state industrial policy—purposes of industrial development—decision on innovative management implementation—development of mechanism to implement innovative decision—expected short- and long-term results based on the traceability of innovation and the overall economic context from a global perspective. The study results can be applied for implementing innovative management in industrial sector and developing industrial policies.
Extremes of mixed-use architecture: a spatial analysis of vertical functional mix in Dhaka
Authors: Khan Fatema Meher , Pafka Elek , Dovey Kim
Published: October 2022

The concept of mixed-use is now well-established as an urban design and planning principle that adds to the vitality, walkability and productivity of the city at neighbourhood scale. There is much less research on the dense and complex vertical mix of functions within buildings. This paper investigates the extremes of informal vertical mixing of functions within buildings in Dhaka, where commercial and retail functions often penetrate to upper floors and where access routes are often mixed with residential functions. A modified form of space syntax analysis is used to analyse and critique the mix of circulation patterns and functions in 15 complex mixed-use buildings. The plans and relational diagrams reveal how different functions are mixed or separated, and the relative spatial depth they penetrate from the street. Five primary circulation diagrams emerge with different degrees of informality in different districts of the city. Under conditions of informal adaptation, vertical functional mix produces benefits in the form of synergies but also problems of privacy and security. To engage effectively planners need a complex understanding of the interrelated spatial, social and economic logics involved.
Ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants utilized in the management of candidiasis in Northern Uganda
Authors: Akwongo Betty , Katuura Esther , Nsubuga Anthony M. , Tugume Patience , Andama Morgan , Anywar Godwin , Namaganda Mary , Asimwe Savina , Kakudidi Esezah Kyomugisha
Published: October 2022

Background

The emergence of resistant Candida species to antifungal drugs has led to resurgence in herbal usage globally. However, little is known about anti-candida plants. This study explored ethnomedicinal plants as treatment option for candidiasis in Pader, Northern Uganda.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey of potential anti-candida plants was conducted using questionnaires, focus group discussions and field observations in March 2022. Sixty-three respondents were selected by snowball technique. The frequencies of respondents/responses were analyzed, associations of respondents’ socio-demographics with indigenous knowledge of herbal usage established by Chi-square (χ2) test using SPSS 27. Informant Consensus Factor was computed to establish level of agreement on herbal usage, and thematic analysis done for focus group discussions.

Results

Candidiasis is still common and troublesome in Pader. All herbalist had equal chances of receiving and treating candidiasis patients irrespective of herbalist’s gender, age, education level, occupation, marital status and religion (p > 0.05). About 39.7% of herbalists received candidiasis patients weekly (p < 0.01). All herbalists had knowledge on candidiasis. Death (56.8%) and discomfort (36.8%) were the major health risks of oropharyngeal candidiasis (OPC) and vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), respectively. A total of 32 potential anti-candida plant species in 18 families were identified. Families of Fabaceae (9 species) and Asteraceae (5 species) had most plant species. Trees (50.0%) and herbs (43.8%) were the dominant life forms. The commonest plants by frequency of mention were: Momordica foetida (26), Sansevieria dawei (20), Khaya anthotheca (15), Piliostigma thonningii (10), Clerodendrum umbellatum (7), Hallea rubrostipulata (5) and unidentified plant, ‘Agaba/daa layata’ in Acholi dialect (5). Plant parts mainly used were roots (56.3%) and stem barks (15.6%) harvested majorly by cutting (46.9%) and uprooting (12.5%). Most respondents (females, 95%) preferred herbal to western medication (p < 0.01) due to its perceived effectiveness. There was high consensus among herbalists on herbal remedies for OPC and VVC (FIC = 0.9).

Conclusions

 Pader communities have diverse indigenous knowledge on candidiasis and prefer herbal medicines to orthodox treatment for candidiasis. However, the herbalists use unsustainable harvesting techniques like uprooting whole plants and cutting main roots. Hence, the need to document such indigenous knowledge before being lost for community usage and scientific validation.
FORT-1: Phase II/III Study of Rogaratinib Versus Chemotherapy in Patients With Locally Advanced or Metastatic Urothelial Carcinoma Selected Based on FGFR1/3 mRNA Expression
Authors: Sternberg Cora N. , Petrylak Daniel P. , Bellmunt Joaquim , Nishiyama Hiroyuki , Necchi Andrea , Gurney Howard , Lee Jae-Lyun , van der Heijden Michiel S. , Rosenbaum Eli , Penel Nicolas , Pang See-Tong , Li Jian-Ri , García del Muro Xavier , Joly Florence , Pápai Zsuzsanna , Bao Weichao , Ellinghaus Peter , Lu Chengxing , Sierecki Mitchell , Coppieters Sabine , Nakajima Keiko , Ishida Tatiane Cristine , Quinn David I.
Published: October 2022

PURPOSE

Rogaratinib, an oral pan-fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR1-4) inhibitor, showed promising phase I efficacy and safety in patients with advanced urothelial carcinoma (UC) with FGFR1-3 mRNA overexpression. We assessed rogaratinib efficacy and safety versus chemotherapy in patients with FGFR mRNA-positive advanced/metastatic UC previously treated with platinum chemotherapy.

METHODS

FORT-1 (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03410693 ) was a phase II/III, randomized, open-label trial. Patients with FGFR1/ 3 mRNA-positive locally advanced or metastatic UC with ≥ 1 prior platinum-containing regimen were randomly assigned (1:1) to rogaratinib (800 mg orally twice daily, 3-week cycles; n = 87) or chemotherapy (docetaxel 75 mg/m2, paclitaxel 175 mg/m2, or vinflunine 320 mg/m2 intravenously once every 3 weeks; n = 88). The primary end point was overall survival, with objective response rate (ORR) analysis planned following phase II accrual. Because of comparable efficacy between treatments, enrollment was stopped before progression to phase III; a full interim analysis of phase II was completed.

RESULTS

ORRs were 20.7% (rogaratinib, 18/87; 95% CI, 12.7 to 30.7) and 19.3% (chemotherapy, 17/88; 95% CI, 11.7 to 29.1). Median overall survival was 8.3 months (95% CI, 6.5 to not estimable) and 9.8 months (95% CI, 6.8 to not estimable; hazard ratio, 1.11; 95% CI, 0.71 to 1.72; P = .67). Grade 3/4 events occurred in 37 (43.0%)/4 (4.7%) patients and 32 (39.0%)/15 (18.3%), respectively. No rogaratinib-related deaths occurred. Exploratory analysis of patients with FGFR3 DNA alterations showed ORRs of 52.4% (11/21; 95% CI, 29.8 to 74.3) for rogaratinib and 26.7% (4/15; 95% CI, 7.8 to 55.1) for chemotherapy.

CONCLUSION

To our knowledge, these are the first data to compare FGFR-directed therapy with chemotherapy in patients with FGFR-altered UC, showing comparable efficacy and manageable safety. Exploratory testing suggested FGFR3 DNA alterations in association with FGFR1/ 3 mRNA overexpression may be better predictors of rogaratinib response.
Genomic Microsatellite Signatures Identify Germline Mismatch Repair Deficiency and Risk of Cancer Onset
Authors: Chung Jiil , Negm Logine , Bianchi Vanessa , Stengs Lucie , Das Anirban , Liu Zhihui Amy , Sudhaman Sumedha , Aronson Melyssa , Brunga Ledia , Edwards Melissa , Forster Victoria , Komosa Martin , Davidson Scott , Lees Jodi , Tomboc Patrick , Samuel David , Farah Roula , Bendel Anne , Knipstein Jeffrey , Schneider Kami Wolfe , Reschke Agnes , Zelcer Shayna , Zorzi Alexandra , McWilliams Robert , Foulkes William D. , Bedgood Raymond , Peterson Lindsay , Rhode Sara , Van Damme An , Scheers Isabelle , Gardner Sharon , Robbins Gabriel , Vanan Magimairajan Issai , Meyn M. Stephen , Auer Rebecca , Leach Brandie , Burke Carol , Villani Anita , Malkin David , Bouffet Eric , Huang Annie , Taylor Michael D. , Durno Carol , Shlien Adam , Hawkins Cynthia , Getz Gad , Maruvka Yosef E. , Tabori Uri ,   on behalf of the International Replication Repair Deficiency Consortium
Published: October 2022

PURPOSE

Diagnosis of Mismatch Repair Deficiency (MMRD) is crucial for tumor management and early detection in patients with the cancer predisposition syndrome constitutional mismatch repair deficiency (CMMRD). Current diagnostic tools are cumbersome and inconsistent both in childhood cancers and in determining germline MMRD.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We developed and analyzed a functional Low-pass Genomic Instability Characterization (LOGIC) assay to detect MMRD. The diagnostic performance of LOGIC was compared with that of current established assays including tumor mutational burden, immunohistochemistry, and the microsatellite instability panel. LOGIC was then applied to various normal tissues of patients with CMMRD with comprehensive clinical data including age of cancer presentation.

RESULTS

Overall, LOGIC was 100% sensitive and specific in detecting MMRD in childhood cancers (N = 376). It was more sensitive than the microsatellite instability panel (14%,
P
= 4.3 × 10
−12
), immunohistochemistry (86%,
P
= 4.6 × 10
−3
), or tumor mutational burden (80%,
P
= 9.1 × 10
−4
). LOGIC was able to distinguish CMMRD from other cancer predisposition syndromes using blood and saliva DNA (
P
< .0001, n = 277). In normal cells, MMRDness scores differed between tissues (GI > blood > brain), increased over time in the same individual, and revealed genotype-phenotype associations within the mismatch repair genes. Importantly, increased MMRDness score was associated with younger age of first cancer presentation in individuals with CMMRD (
P
= 2.2 × 10
−5
).

CONCLUSION

LOGIC was a robust tool for the diagnosis of MMRD in multiple cancer types and in normal tissues. LOGIC may inform therapeutic cancer decisions, provide rapid diagnosis of germline MMRD, and support tailored surveillance for individuals with CMMRD.
Risk Stratification of Stage I Grade 3 Endometrioid Endometrial Carcinoma in the Era of Molecular Classification
Authors: Zammarrelli William A. , Kim Sarah H. , Da Cruz Paula Arnaud , Rios-Doria Eric V. , Ehmann Sarah , Yeoshoua Effi , Hanlon Etta J. , Zhou Qin , Iasonos Alexia , Alektiar Kaled M. , Aghajanian Carol , Makker Vicky , Leitao Mario M. , Abu-Rustum Nadeem R. , Ellenson Lora H. , Weigelt Britta , Mueller Jennifer J.
Published: October 2022

PURPOSE

The role of adjuvant therapy in stage I grade 3 endometrioid endometrial carcinoma (EEC) is debatable. We sought to define the agreement between Post Operative Radiation Therapy in Endometrial Carcinoma 1 (PORTEC-1) high-intermediate risk (HIR) and Gynecologic Oncology Group (GOG)-99 HIR criteria, assess their concordance with The Cancer Genome Atlas molecular subtypes, and evaluate oncologic outcomes in this population.

METHODS

We identified patients with stage I grade 3 EECs who underwent surgical staging at our institution from January 2014 to January 2020. Patients were stratified into PORTEC-1 HIR, GOG-99 HIR, and The Cancer Genome Atlas molecular subtypes. Adjuvant treatment, and progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS) were analyzed.

RESULTS

Seventy-five patients were included. The agreement between PORTEC-1 and GOG-99 HIR classification was 68% (95% CI, 56.2 to 78.3), with a kappa of 0.36 ( P = .001). There was no agreement between PORTEC-1 or GOG-99 HIR classification and a dichotomized molecular classification (copy number-high [CN-H] v other subtypes), with a kappa of 0.03 ( P = .39) and −0.03 ( P = .601), respectively. There was no difference in PFS between PORTEC-1 HIR and non-HIR (HR, 10.9; 95% CI, 0.28 to 4.21) or between GOG-99 HIR and non-HIR (HR, 1.22; 95% CI, 0.32 to 4.6) stage I grade 3 EECs. Patients with CN-H compared with non-CN-H EEC had worse PFS (HR, 5.67; 95% CI, 1.73 to 18.63) and OS (HR, 5.05; 95% CI, 1.13 to 22.5).

CONCLUSION

In surgically staged patients with stage I grade 3 EEC, PORTEC-1 and GOG-99 HIR criteria were not prognostic and did not identify CN-H patients. Patients with CN-H EEC had worse PFS and OS compared with those with other molecular subtypes. The integration of the molecular classification with recognized clinicopathologic factors may identify patients with higher-risk stage I grade 3 EEC who benefit from additional therapy.
Ketone Body Infusion Abrogates Growth Hormone–Induced Lipolysis and Insulin Resistance
Authors: Høgild Morten Lyng , Hjelholt Astrid Johannesson , Hansen Jakob , Pedersen Steen Bønløkke , Møller Niels , Wojtaszewski Jørgen F P , Johannsen Mogens , Jessen Niels , Jørgensen Jens Otto Lunde
Published: October 2022

Context

Exogenous ketone body administration lowers circulating glucose levels but the underlying mechanisms are uncertain.

Objective

We tested the hypothesis that administration of the ketone body β-hydroxybutyrate (βOHB) acutely increases insulin sensitivity via feedback suppression of circulating free fatty acid (FFA) levels.

Methods

In a randomized, single-blinded crossover design, 8 healthy men were studied twice with a growth hormone (GH) infusion to induce lipolysis in combination with infusion of either βOHB or saline. Each study day comprised a basal period and a hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp combined with a glucose tracer and adipose tissue and skeletal muscle biopsies.

Results

βOHB administration profoundly suppressed FFA levels concomitantly with a significant increase in glucose disposal and energy expenditure. This was accompanied by a many-fold increase in skeletal muscle content of both βOHB and its derivative acetoacetate.

Conclusion

Our data unravel an insulin-sensitizing effect of βOHB, which we suggest is mediated by concomitant suppression of lipolysis.
CXCL12 defines lung endothelial heterogeneity and promotes distal vascular growth
Authors: Chandrasekaran Prashant , Negretti Nicholas M. , Sivakumar Aravind , Liberti Derek C. , Wen Hongbo , Peers de Nieuwburgh Maureen , Wang Joanna Y. , Michki Nigel S. , Chaudhry Fatima N. , Kaur Sukhmani , Lu MinQi , Jin Annabelle , Zepp Jarod A. , Young Lisa R. , Sucre Jennifer M. S. , Frank David B.
Published: October 2022

There is a growing amount of data uncovering the cellular diversity of the pulmonary circulation and mechanisms governing vascular repair after injury. However, the molecular and cellular mechanisms contributing to the morphogenesis and growth of the pulmonary vasculature during embryonic development are less clear. Importantly, deficits in vascular development lead to significant pediatric lung diseases, indicating a need to uncover fetal programs promoting vascular growth. To address this, we used a transgenic mouse reporter for expression of Cxcl12, an arterial endothelial hallmark gene, and performed single-cell RNA sequencing on isolated Cxcl12-DsRed+ endothelium to assess cellular heterogeneity within pulmonary endothelium. Combining cell annotation with gene ontology and histological analysis allowed us to segregate the developing artery endothelium into functionally and spatially distinct subpopulations. Expression of Cxcl12 is highest in the distal arterial endothelial subpopulation, a compartment enriched in genes for vascular development. Accordingly, disruption of CXCL12 signaling led to, not only abnormal branching, but also distal vascular hypoplasia. These data provide evidence for arterial endothelial functional heterogeneity and reveal conserved signaling mechanisms essential for pulmonary vascular development.
Abnormalities in the migration of neural precursor cells in familial bipolar disorder
Authors: Sukumaran Salil K. , Paul Pradip , Guttal Vishwesha , Holla Bharath , Vemula Alekhya , Bhatt Harsimar , Bisht Piyush , Mathew Kezia , Nadella Ravi K. , Varghese Anu Mary , Kalyan Vijayalakshmi , Purushottam Meera , Jain Sanjeev , Consortium ADBS , Sud Reeteka , Viswanath Biju
Published: October 2022

Cellular migration is a ubiquitous feature that brings brain cells into appropriate spatial relationships over time; and it helps in the formation of a functional brain. We studied the migration patterns of induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neural precursor cells (NPCs) from individuals with familial bipolar disorder (BD) in comparison with healthy controls. The BD patients also had morphological brain abnormalities evident on magnetic resonance imaging. Time-lapse analysis of migrating cells was performed, through which we were able to identify several parameters that were abnormal in cellular migration, including the speed and directionality of NPCs. We also performed transcriptomic analysis to probe the mechanisms behind the aberrant cellular phenotype identified. Our analysis showed the downregulation of a network of genes, centering on EGF/ERBB proteins. The present findings indicate that collective, systemic dysregulation may produce the aberrant cellular phenotype, which could contribute to the functional and structural changes in the brain reported for bipolar disorder.

This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.
A-MYB/TCFL5 regulatory architecture ensures the production of pachytene piRNAs in placental mammals
Authors: Yu Tiangxiong , Biasini Adriano , Cecchini Katharine , Säflund Martin , Mou Haiwei , Arif Amena , Eghbali Atiyeh , de Rooij Dirk G. , Weng Zhiping , Zamore Phillip D. , Özata Deniz M.
Published: October 2022

In male mice, the transcription factor A-MYB initiates the transcription of pachytene piRNA genes during meiosis. Here, we report that A-MYB activates the transcription factorTcfl5produced in pachytene spermatocytes. Subsequently, A-MYB and TCFL5 reciprocally reinforce their own transcription to establish a positive feedback circuit that triggers pachytene piRNA production. TCFL5 regulates the expression of genes required for piRNA maturation and promotes transcription of evolutionarily young pachytene piRNA genes, whereas A-MYB activates the transcription of older pachytene piRNA genes. Intriguingly, pachytene piRNAs from TCFL5-dependent young loci initiate the production of piRNAs from A-MYB-dependent older loci, ensuring the self-propagation of pachytene piRNAs. A-MYB and TCFL5 act via a set of incoherent feedforward loops that drive regulation of gene expression by pachytene piRNAs during spermatogenesis. This regulatory architecture is conserved in rhesus macaque, suggesting that it was present in the last common ancestor of placental mammals.
The genome sequence of the common yellow swallowtail, Papilio machaon (Linnaeus, 1758)
Authors: Lohse Konrad , Hayward Alex , Laetsch Dominik R. , Vila Roger ,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life programme,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: DNA Pipelines collective,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective, Yumnam Tarunkishwor ,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: October 2022

We present a genome assembly from an individual female Papilio machaon (the common yellow swallowtail; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Papilionidae). The genome sequence is 252 megabases in span. The majority of the assembly (99.97%) is scaffolded into 31 chromosomal pseudomolecules with the W and Z sex chromosomes assembled. The complete mitochondrial genome was also assembled and is 15.3 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl has identified 14,323 protein coding genes.
Automated analysis for multiplet identification from ultra-high resolution 2D-1H,13C-HSQC NMR spectra
Authors: Ferrante Laura , Rajpoot Kashif , Jeeves Mark , Ludwig Christian
Published: October 2022

Background: Metabolism is essential for cell survival and proliferation. A deep understanding of the metabolic network and its regulatory processes is often vital to understand and overcome disease. Stable isotope tracing of metabolism using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and mass spectrometry (MS) is a powerful tool to derive mechanistic information of metabolic network activity. However, to retrieve meaningful information, automated tools are urgently needed to analyse these complex spectra and eliminate the bias introduced by manual analysis. Here,

we present a data-driven algorithm to automatically annotate and analyse NMR signal multiplets in 2D-1H,13C-HSQC NMR spectra arising from 13C -13C scalar couplings. The algorithm minimises the need for user input to guide the analysis of 2D-1H,13C-HSQC NMR spectra by performing automated peak picking and multiplet analysis. This enables non-NMR specialists to use this technology. The algorithm has been integrated into the existing MetaboLab software package.

Methods: To evaluate the algorithm performance two criteria are tested: is the peak correctly annotated and secondly how confident is the algorithm with its analysis. For the latter a coefficient of determination is introduced. Three datasets were used for testing. The first was to test reproducibility with three biological replicates, the second tested the robustness of the algorithm for different amounts of scaling of the apparent J-coupling constants and the third focused on different sampling amounts.

Results: The algorithm annotated overall >90% of NMR signals correctly with average coefficient of determination ρ of 94.06 ± 5.08%, 95.47 ± 7.20% and 80.47 ± 20.98% respectively.

Conclusions: Our results indicate that the proposed algorithm accurately identifies and analyses NMR signal multiplets in ultra-high resolution 2D-1H,13C-HSQC NMR spectra. It is robust to signal splitting enhancement and up to 25% of non-uniform sampling.
The world around us as a simulated reality: on the issue of the contemporary worldview's communication foundations
Authors: Volodenkov Sergey
Published: October 2022

This article is devoted to the study of the communication foundations of the worldview phenomenon, which is considered as a subjective system of perception, interpretation and evaluation of events, processes, and phenomena of the surrounding world, as well as behavioral strategies based on a holistic, consistent set of beliefs, values, symbols and meanings, the bearer of which is an individual or social community. The paper proposes a conceptual prism of the functional features of the worldview, which is based on the law of the necessary diversity of W.R. Ashby. Within the framework of the proposed conceptual prism, the author explores the structure of the worldview phenomenon, as well as the functional dualism of communication tools used in the processes of worldview formation. The article analyzes the current state of the worldview formation processes in the contemporary world. Special attention is given to the role of traditional media and modern digital information and communication resources, through which, under the current conditions of globalization, attempts are made to eliminate worldview diversity and form a single worldview system based on a universal system of values, meanings, symbols, and ideas. In this regard, the thesis is put forward about the emergence in the modern world of a line of tension associated with a value-semantic conflict, within which scenarios of preserving the diversity of traditional national worldview systems or their complete replacement with modern simulated media constructs supported at the global level by leading geopolitical actors are opposed. As part of the analysis of these scenarios, special attention is paid to the need to ensure national information sovereignty, as the ability of the state to maintain its own diversity at the national level. The article shows that in the current conditions of technological transformations and the formation of a global digital space for constructing universal meanings, values and cultural codes, traditional national worldview systems are subject to significant external influences and significant risks of transformation. The author concludes that the contemporary man, due to his isolation from the highly dynamic and complex world, is forced to use only explanatory media models that are displaced relative to reality and constructed with the help of information and communication resources to form his own worldview. These explanatory models form a picture of ideas about the world, as well as a “correct” worldview complex.
Corpus oral para el estudio sociolingüístico de hablantes peruanos en la ciudad de Sevilla (PERUSEV)
Authors: Repede Doina
Published: October 2022

Entre 2015 y 2017 el movimiento migratorio del colectivo peruano en España se estabilizó, aumentando progresivamente durante los tres años siguientes. En este contexto general de crecimiento, la provincia de Sevilla ha sido un importante foco receptor, hecho que posibilita un análisis sociolingüístico de este grupo, así como la realización de estudios contrastados con el español de hablantes vernáculos. Las muestras de habla que se recogen en este volumen forman parte del "Proyecto VARES - AGENDA 2050 Sevilla. El español de Sevilla y Las Palmas de Gran Canaria: procesos de variación y cambio espaciales y sociales" (Ref. PID2019-104982GB-C54). Se incluye la transcripción de las entrevistas semidirigidas realizadas a 22 hablantes peruanos, originarios de la zona costeña y andina, en la ciudad de Sevilla, llevadas a cabo entre junio y octubre de 2020; los informantes han sido distribuidos en dos tramos de edad (menores y mayores de 45 años) y en tres niveles de instrucción (estudios primarios, secundarios y superiores).
Pemanfaatan Sampah Organik untuk Produksi Biogas di Lembaga Pemasyarakatan Klas II A Jember dengan Melibatkan Narapidana
Authors: Muharja Maktum , Darmayanti Rizki Fitria , Putri Ditta Kharisma Yolanda , Rahmawati Atiqa
Published: October 2022

Kabupaten Jember memiliki Lembaga Pemasyarakatan (Lapas) klas II A yang berlokasi di tengah kota Jember.  Sampah yang dihasilkan di Lapas cukup banyak. Jumlah sampah yang dihasilkan semakin meningkat seiring dengan meningkatnya jumlah penghuni Lapas. Namun, jika sampah yang ada tidak dimanfaatkan dengan baik akan langsung mencemari lingkungan. Solusi yang ditawarkan pada kegiatan ini adalah mendapatkan sumber energi baru agar lebih ekonomis. Solusi tersebut dilakukan dengan cara melaksanakan pengabdian berupa pemasangan perangkat pengolah biogas untuk Lapas Jember serta sosialisasi dan demonstrasi penggunaan alat. Metode yang dilaksanakan yaitu dengan cara survey, instalasi alat, dan pelaksanaan sosialiasi. Pengabdian ini menghasilkan teknologi tepat menggunakan alat fermentor biogas, dengan bahan baku yang dimasukkan ke dalam fermentor berupa sampah organik, air, dan rumen (kotoran sapi). Uji coba alat fermentor tersebut telah menghasilkan biogas dan dapat disosialisasikan kepada penghungi Lapas Klas IIA Jember.
Evaluating nursing opinion and perception of maggot therapy for hard-to-heal wound management
Authors: Hopkins Ruth CN , Williams Sharon , Brown Amy , Humphreys Ioan , Clifford Rebecca , Nigam Yamni
Published: October 2022

Objective:

Maggot therapy (MT) or larval debridement therapy is a recognised, effective but underutilised treatment for the management of hard-to-heal wounds and infected ulcers. It is available on NHS prescription in the UK, where wound management is predominantly nurse-led. Anecdotal reports and published literature suggest that nurses may be reluctant to utilise the therapy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feelings and opinions of nurses regarding the use of MT.

Method:

The first stage of this mixed-methods study was a focus group held to discuss MT and opinions of specialist nurse clinicians. Next, an anonymised web-based online survey was launched through the Nursing Times journal and distributed through social media targeting all nurses. Finally, in-depth interviews were held with specialist and generalist nurses.

Results:

Awareness of MT among all nurses was extremely high. A breakdown of results showed that MT was much more highly regarded by wound specialist nurses than non-wound specialist nurses. The latter exhibited a greater level of reluctance to administer the therapy, with almost one-third of these nurses surveyed saying they found maggots disgusting and that the idea of MT made their skin crawl. In-depth interviews revealed that a lack of knowledge about MT was a prime concern.

Conclusion:

Wound specialist nurses are more likely to embrace MT than non-wound nurse specialists, who report a varying degree of wariness to MT. Our study highlights a need for better education and training in MT for all nurses, to address issues with acceptance and willingness to treat or help treat patients with hard-to-heal wounds which are suitable for MT.
Combined application of moist exposed burn ointment and maggot therapy in wound healing
Authors: Song Mingzhi , Bai Xiaodong , Wang Deyu , Wang Qingxin , Pan Liwen , He Ping , Gong Ying , Sun Xiaohong , Xu Xiaoguang , Che Jianzhong , Wang Shouyu
Published: October 2022

Objective:

Hard-to-heal wounds are a global health challenge, and effective treatments are still lacking. Moist exposed burn ointment (MEBO) and maggots are traditional treatments for promoting wound healing. This study was a preliminary exploration of combined maggot therapy and MEBO in the treatment of hard-to-heal wounds.

Method:

A coexistence experiment was conducted to determine the survival rates of maggots in MEBO. The maggots were placed in two different existence conditions: one set in MEBO (MEBO group), and another set as the control group (no MEBO) to compare survival rates. Case reports describe the use of the combined application of MEBO and maggots in the treatment of patients with hard-to-heal wounds.

Results:

The coexistence experiment indicated that maggots in the MEBO group had a higher survival rate. From the therapeutic effect of the clinical cases (n=7), the combined application was safe and effective, with all the reported wounds eventually healing.

Conclusion:

Based on the findings of this study, we believe the combined application of MEBO and maggots is a promising way of promoting wound healing. Further studies and clinical trials are needed to elucidate the mechanism of the combined application in promoting wound healing and to more persuasively clarify the therapeutic effect.
Kültüre Duyarlı Okul Psikolojik Danışmanlığında Bir Teknik: Kültürel Konulara Ön Ayak Olmak
Authors: AYDOĞAN Mustafa
Published: October 2022

Psikolojik danışmanlık disiplini son 40 yıldır kültüre duyarlılık üzerine odaklanmaktadır. Bu sürecin sonucu olarak kültüre duyarlı psikolojik danışma süreci kavramsallaştırılmış ve bu konuda birçok teori ve model geliştirilmiştir. Dünyada olduğu gibi Türkiye’de de en yaygın olarak kullanılan kültüre duyarlılık modelleri bilgi, farkındalık ve beceri bileşenlerinden oluşmaktadır. Fakat alanda çalışan birçok psikolojik danışmanın kültürel bilgi ve farkındalık seviyelerinde nispeten yetkin olsalar da beceri boyutunda daha fazla desteğe ihtiyaçları olduğu gözlemlenmiştir. Alandaki bu ihtiyacı karşılamak amacı ile bu çalışmada okul psikolojik danışmanlarını kültürel konuları verimli bir şekilde ele almaları için önerilen önayak olma (broaching) yöntemi kavramsallaştırılmıştır. Kültürel konulara önayak olma sürekliliği ve farklı düzeylerde yeterlilik seviyesine sahip psikolojik danışman özellikleri açıklanmıştır. Çalışma okul psikolojik danışmanlarının sıklıkla karşılaşabilecekleri kültürel değerlerin işlendiği senaryolar ve bu senaryolarda kullanabilecekleri önayak olma ifadelerini içermektedir. Bu senaryolarda olabildiğince güncel ve yerel kültürel örnekler yer almaktadır. Son olarak alanda çalışan psikolojik danışmanlara ve psikolojik danışman eğitimcilerine öneriler okuyucuya sunulmuştur.
Zone 1 and 2 flexor tendon repair via a longitudinal incision crossing the volar distal interphalangeal joint: functional and cosmetic outcomes
Authors: Stirling PHC , Snowden GT , McEachan JE
Published: October 2022

Introduction

The primary aim of this study was to present patient-reported functional outcomes after zone 1 and 2 flexor tendon repair using a novel longitudinal volar approach crossing the distal interphalangeal joint (DIPJ) perpendicularly. The secondary aims were to investigate the cosmetic outcomes, satisfaction and complication rates associated with this technique.

Methods

Over a 6-year period, 75 patients underwent flexor tendon repair using this technique. The quick version of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH), five-level EQ-5D (EQ-5D-5L), Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS) and satisfaction questionnaires were collected. QuickDASH scores were available for 59 patients (79%), and POSAS scores were available for 45 patients (60%) at a mean follow-up of 48 months. Concomitant nerve repairs were undertaken in 24 cases.

Results

The median QuickDASH score was 4.5 (interquartile range [IQR] 1.1–12.5) and median POSAS score was 12 (IQR 8–16). No significant difference was observed in median QuickDASH score between patients with and without a concomitant nerve repair (4.5 vs 6.8; p = 0.36). Fifty-six patients (94%) were satisfied. Two patients required open tenolysis, and a single case of early re-rupture occurred that required revision open repair.

Conclusions

Utilising validated patient-reported functional outcomes, this study demonstrated that a direct longitudinal incision over the DIPJ for zone 1 and 2 flexor tendon repairs can result in excellent functional and cosmetic outcomes, with high rates of patient satisfaction and low rates of complications. This challenges previously held dogma that longitudinal incisions crossing flexion creases should be avoided.
A critical review of intersectionality, social work education and sex work: an Irish perspective
Authors: Sweeney Leigh-Ann , Flynn Susan
Published: October 2022

Social work programmes offer a professional qualification with a primary objective of addressing issues of oppression in society. This furnishes a curriculum that prioritises practice-based social work education, alongside the very structural components that create the oppression of race, gender, age and ethnicity of its citizens. Intersectionality is rarely considered mainstream, with a preference for linear, one-dimensional theory, rather than a multilevel theoretical framework towards anti-oppressive practice. Using an adapted voice-centred relational model, the study examines the intersecting experiences of sex workers in the Republic of Ireland. The findings indicate that sex workers primarily work indoors, hold precarious legal status and are situated in Ireland as a response to global migration and economic necessity. The research argues for a revised (intersecting) critical framework for social work education that challenges current sex-work narratives and policies that reinforce ‘helping relationships’ of surveillance, regulation and the exclusion of sex workers.
IMF expertise in the eurozone crisis: from stimulus talk to austerity policy
Authors: Nordström Laura , Teivainen Teivo
Published: October 2022

The eurozone crisis presented the opportunity to reform European economic policies. In spring 2010, a new technocratic knowledge regime developed in the form of the Troika that consisted of the European Commission, the European Central Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF). This article provides new, previously understudied, knowledge on the internal dynamics of the Troika. As the prevailing austerity paradigm had been questioned during the preceding years also within the IMF, this study analyses the role of IMF’s expertise during the negotiations that led to the first Greek loan package and created a path-dependent crisis management scheme. It traces how the IMF acted as a source of expertise and its role in the persistence of the austerity paradigm. The analysis is based on a unique set of interviews with decision-makers. The IMF’s role in the negotiations was very important, but unexpectedly the Commission ruled on most of the content. In contrast to some earlier research, this analysis argues that even if the IMF had become more open to new economic-policy ideas, it did not truly challenge the European austerity policy. Reasons for this include the perceived lack of fiscal space, constraints from the EU, pessimism towards Greek growth, and the gap between research and policy departments of the IMF. This partly explains why the crisis did not lead to a change in eurozone policies. The analysis contributes also to identifying intra-institutional autonomy and fragmentation as reasons for the stability of economic paradigms despite apparent challenges even within hegemonic institutions such as the IMF.
Thermal metasurface with tunable narrowband absorption from a hybrid graphene/silicon photonic crystal resonance
Authors: Nagpal Arun , Zhou Ming , Ilic Ognjen , Yu Zongfu , Atwater Harry A.
Published: October 2022

We report the design of a tunable, narrowband, thermal metasurface that employs a hybrid resonance generated by coupling a tunable permittivity graphene ribbon to a silicon photonic crystal. The gated graphene ribbon array, proximitized to a high quality factor Si photonic crystal supporting a guided mode resonance, exhibits tunable narrowband absorbance lineshapes (Q > 10,000). Actively tuned Fermi level modulation in graphene with applied gate voltage between high absorptivity and low absorptivity states gives rise to absorbance on/off ratios exceeding 60. We employ coupled-mode theory as a computationally efficient approach to elements of the metasurface design, demonstrating an orders of magnitude speedup over typical finite element computational methods.
Multiple-dimensional multiplexed holography based on modulated chiro-optical fields
Authors: Li Fajing , Nie Shouping , Ma Jun , Yuan Caojin
Published: October 2022

Orbital angular momentum (OAM) multiplexing technology has been developed in the optical information encryption fields. Here, the modulated chiro-optical OAM (MC-OAM) holography is proposed to further improve information security capacity, which integrates the OAM multiplexing technology with the chiro phase modulation. The orthogonality of the axicon parameter, chiro coefficient and rotation angle modulating the chiro phase distributions are analyzed, respectively, which demonstrate their potential usages as extra degrees of freedom besides the topological charge (TC). Those three parameters combining TC serve as four optical keys, which provides a four-dimensional spatial multiplexing method for information security. Furthermore, we have demonstrated that TC minimum interval of the fractional MC-OAM reaches 0.01. The experimental and simulation results exhibit the essential properties in selectivity and multiplexing of MC-OAM holography. This method can significantly increase the holographic information capacity and safety and inspire widespread applications, such as display, information security and communication.
Broad tuning range, high power quantum cascade laser at λ ∼ 7.4 µm
Authors: Liu Jun-Hong , Wang Huan , Zhang Jin-Chuan , Zhuo Ning , Zhai Shen-qiang , Liu Jun-Qi , Wang Li-Jun , Li Yuan , Liu Shu-Man , Liu Feng-Qi
Published: October 2022

In this article, we report a high power quantum cascade laser (QCL) at λ

∼

7.4 µm with a broad tuning range. By carefully designing and optimizing the active region and waveguide structure, a continuous-wave (CW) output power up to 1.36 W and 0.5 W is achieved at 293 K and 373 K which shows the excellent temperature stability. A high wall-plug efficiency (WPE) of 8% and 13.6% in CW and pulsed mode at 293 K are demonstrated. The laser shows a characteristic temperature T0 of 224 K and T1 of 381 K over a temperature range from 283 K to 373 K. In addition, a far field of pure zero order transverse mode and a fairly wide external cavity (EC) tuning range (280 cm-1) from 6.54 µm to 8 µm are achieved in pulsed operation. In addition, an EC single mode output power of 226 mW is obtained under CW operation at 293K.