bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Family-Based, Culturally Responsive Intervention for Chinese Americans With Diabetes: Lessons Learned From a Literature Review to Inform Study Design and Implementation
Authors: Li Wen-Wen , Tong Jacqueline
Published: October 2023

Background

The prevalence of diabetes in the United States is very high, and Chinese peoples with diabetes are estimated to comprise 50% of the total cases. Rates of diabetes continue to rise among Chinese and Chinese American people; however, research regarding effective diabetes interventions for this minority group is sparse.

Objective

A literature review was conducted to determine a study design and interventions for future studies investigating the efficacy of a family-based intervention to improve diabetes care for Chinese Americans.

Methods

The review was conducted from January 2023 to April 2023. The PubMed, CINAHL, ScienceDirect, ProQuest, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases were searched. The key search terms were “diabetes type 2,” “Chinese patients,” “minority patients,” “interventions for diabetes,” “diabetes and family,” “culturally responsive interventions for diabetic patients,” “family education for diabetes,” and “diabetes in China.”

Results

The initial search retrieved 2335 articles, and 10 articles met the selection criteria to examine the efficacy of family-based interventions for Chinese American people. The review showed that providing multiple sessions of education and counseling for both patients and family members is promising for improving diabetes care. Recruitment of 20 to 60 dyads consisting of a patient and a family member can help assess family dynamics in the process of diabetes care, such as food shopping and preparation, and of diabetes management to further evaluate the efficacy of an intervention. Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) was the most often used primary outcome. Other secondary outcomes included knowledge and efficacy in diabetes management and self-care activities related to diabetes care.

Conclusions

A family-based intervention is essential for optimizing diabetes care for Chinese Americans. Thus, recruitment of a dyad consisting of a patient and a family member is important to investigate the efficacy of a family-based intervention for improving diabetes care in this population. Strategies for improving recruitment and retention of dyads were identified. In addition, technology can be used to promote the delivery of interventions to patients, which in turn increases efficacy. This review can help researchers investigate the efficacy of family-based interventions for promoting diabetes management by designing culturally appropriate study protocols and interventions.
Pilot Investigation of Blood Pressure Control Using a Mobile App (Cardi.Health): Retrospective Chart Review Study (Preprint)
Authors: Nakrys Marius , Valinskas Sarunas , Aleknavicius Kasparas , Jonusas Justinas
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND

The high prevalence of hypertension necessitates effective, scalable interventions for blood pressure (BP) control. Self-monitoring has shown improved adherence to medication and better BP management. Mobile apps offer a promising approach with their increasing popularity and potential for large-scale implementation. Studies have demonstrated associations between mobile app interventions and lowered BP, yet real-world data on app effectiveness and engagement remain limited.

OBJECTIVE

In this study, we analyzed real-world user data from the Cardi.Health mobile app, which is aimed at helping its users monitor and control their BP. Our goal was to find out whether there is an association between the use of the mobile app and a decrease in BP. Additionally, the study explored how engagement with the app may influence this outcome.

METHODS

This was a retrospective chart review study. The initial study population comprised 4407 Cardi.Health users who began using the app between January 2022 and April 2022. After applying inclusion criteria, the final study cohort comprised 339 users with elevated BP at the baseline. The sample consisted of 108 (31.9%) men and 231 (68.1%) women (P=.04). This retrospective chart review study obtained permission from the Biomedical Research Alliance of New York Institutional Review Board (June 2022, registration ID 22-08-503-939).

RESULTS

The study’s main findings were that there is a possible relationship between use of the Cardi.Health mobile app and a decrease in systolic BP. Additionally, there was a significant association between active use of the app and systolic BP decrease (χ21=5.311; P=.02). Finally, active users had an almost 2 times greater chance of reducing systolic BP by 5 mm Hg or more over 4 weeks (odds ratio 1.932, 95% CI 1.074-3.528; P=.03).

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows a possible relationship between Cardi.Health mobile app use and decreased BP. Additionally, engagement with the app may be related to better results—active use was associated with an almost 2-fold increase in the odds of reducing BP by 5 or more mm Hg.
Collocation Teaching in Second Language
Authors: Sun Rong
Published: October 2023

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Analysis of the Role and Contribution of Fishermen’s Wives to Family Income in Likupang Barat District, North Minahasa Regency
Authors: Dien Christian Ronald , Tambani Grace O. , S. Durand Swenekhe
Published: October 2023

Jayakarsa Village is a coastal village located in West Likupang District which is one of the tourist destinations in North Sulawesi and even in Indonesia. In this village there are still fishing communities who use the traditional fishing gear jubi or arrows to meet their needs. The aim of the research is to identify and analyze the amount and sources of income of jubi fishermen in Jayakarsa Village, West Likupang District, and analyze the amount and type of expenditure of jubi fishermen in Jayakarsa Village, West Likupang District, as well as analyze the standard of living of jubi fishermen in Jayakarsa Village, West Likupang District. The research location was carried out in Jayakarsa Village, West Likupang District using basic survey methods. The population in this research is jubi fishermen who have families in Jayakarsa Village totaling 30 people. The data collection method uses the census method, namely taking the entire population to be used as respondents. Data consists of primary data and secondary data. Primary data collection was carried out by means of interviews using questionnaires and observations. Collecting secondary data is by quoting data from related agencies or data from previous research results. The data obtained will be processed and analyzed descriptively qualitatively and descriptively quantitatively. Qualitative descriptive analysis is used to provide discussions of qualitative data related to existing theory. The data is analyzed and then interpreted as research results. The research results show that the income of jubi fishermen in Jayakarsa Village comes from their main job as crew members on the Pajeko Ship and side jobs. Jubi fishermen's expenditure consists of total food expenditure plus total non-food expenditure. Analysis of the Engel Index obtained was 65.9%, which means that 65.9% of the total income of jubi fishermen in Jayakarsa Village is used to meet food needs. This means that the level of welfare of jubi fishermen in Jayakarsa Village is still relatively low.
Homology Modeling and Structure Based Drug Design for Human Gastric Cancer
Authors: Kumari Uma , Bora Manaswinee , Akshaya MN.
Published: October 2023

Abstract: This research article delves into the multifaceted world of structural biology and bioinformatics, exploring a diverse array of tools and resources employed to decipher the intricacies of proteins and their implications in health and disease. The paper navigates through various computational tools and databases used for sequence analysis, structural analysis, mutation site detection, and molecular docking, shedding light on their individual contributions in unraveling the secrets of proteins. COBALT serves as the initial compass, guiding researchers in the alignment of protein sequences, identifying conserved domains, and elucidating structural features in proteins. The exploration continues, with a focus on tools such as RasMol, PyMol, and Pharmit. This research article explores a range of bioinformatics tools and databases crucial for elucidating the complex world of proteins and their involvement in diseases like gastric cancer. It begins by highlighting the pivotal role of the Catalogue of Somatic Mutations in Cancer (COSMIC) in mutation site detection, providing a comprehensive repository of somatic mutations in cancer. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) complements this with a wealth of biological data and pathways. Shifting the focus to protein stability and dynamics, the article introduces DynaMUT, a computational tool employing molecular dynamics simulations to predict mutation impacts on protein behavior. Lastly, SwissDock takes the stage for drug discovery, facilitating the prediction and analysis of interactions between small molecules and target proteins. Collectively, these tools and databases offer an interdisciplinary lens through which researchers unravel protein intricacies and their relevance in diseases, exemplifying the indispensable role of structural biology and bioinformatics in advancing biological understanding.
Condiciones de vida y COVID-19 en comunidades agrícolas: personas jornaleras de Sonora y Baja California, México
Authors: Calvario José Eduardo , Arellano María del Carmen , Rodríguez Juan Manuel , Camarena-Ojinaga Lourdes
Published: October 2023

El objetivo es analizar las condicionantes sociales y de cuidado ante el COVID-19 en zonas agrícolas de Baja California y Sonora, México. La investigación, realizada de junio de 2020 a julio de 2021, fue de corte cualitativo por medio de 34 entrevistas semiestructuradas a personas que laboraron en campos agrícolas durante los primeros meses de la pandemia. El acceso a los sistemas locales de salud formal fue insuficiente en algunos momentos, pero también hubo resistencia a utilizarlos, y prefirieron poner en práctica saberes de medicina tradicional. Las precarias condiciones de las viviendas, el hacinamiento y las dificultades de acceso a los servicios públicos, como agua entubada, obstaculizaron las prácticas de prevención que se implementaron. Las condiciones de vulnerabilidad social contribuyeron para que en estas comunidades agrícolas se siguiera trabajando para sobrevivir, mientras que las precarias condiciones de vida imposibilitaron el cuidado cotidiano centrado en el distanciamiento social.
A ESPIRITUALIDADE COMO FERRAMENTA NO ENFRENTAMENTO DA COVID-19
Authors: Nunes Erika dos Santos , Nunes-Júnior Roberto Costa , Gonçalves Maria Tairla Viana , Vasco-Dos-Santos Deyvison Rhuan , Cerilo-Filho Marcelo
Published: October 2023

COVID-19, in March 2020, was characterized as a pandemic, being a great challenge to the world public health, causing traumatic impacts on the mental health of the population, especially the elderly. Spirituality has presented itself as a relevant tool in the understanding of suffering and in the re-signification of life, especially for those who have adhered to social isolation or have been contaminated by the coronavirus. In this sense, the following question arose: Can spirituality contribute to the confrontation of the impacts of COVID-19 on the mental health of the elderly population? Thus, the present study aimed to investigate the contributions of spirituality to the mental health of the elderly in coping with COVID-19. For this, an integrative review was carried out with a qualitative approach during the period from March to September/2021. The articles were selected from the PUBMED, LILACS and Google Academic databases. As a result, 4084 articles were found; however, only 6 articles answered the research question, which became the final sample size. In this study, it was identified that spirituality contributes beneficially to the mental health of the elderly in facing the pandemic of COVID-19, suggesting that it minimizes possible negative impacts on their mental health, such as social isolation, awakening and strengthening feelings of hope, peace, comfort, faith, resilience and well-being, helping in the quality of life of individuals more vulnerable to the coronavirus, during and after the pandemic, in people over 60 years of age. Therefore, this study can direct the planning of actions in mental health, aiming at the application of spirituality as an aid tool in the treatment of COVID-19, mainly in the elderly.
LEI BRASILEIRA DE INCLUSÃO E O TRATADO DE MARRAQUECHE: GARANTIAS DE ACESSIBILIDADE AOS LIVROS PARA AS PESSOAS COM DEFICIÊNCIA VISUAL
Authors: Guedes Denyse Moreira , Adami Fabíola Andrea Chofard , Barbosa Luciane Maria Molina
Published: October 2023

This study addresses the issue of limited access to literature for people with visual impairments, focusing on the analysis of the relevant legal provisions. The objective is to examine the barriers faced by people with blindness and low vision when seeking works in accessible formats. In this context, we highlight the importance of aligning Brazilian copyright legislation with the Brazilian Inclusion Law and the Marrakesh Treaty. We argue that it is the State's responsibility to develop public policies that ensure accessibility in various sectors, including the cultural sector, in order to guarantee the equality of rights stipulated by these legal frameworks.
PRODUKSI TANAMAN KARET KLON IRR 118 DI LAHAN GAMBUT
Authors: Saputra Jamin , Ardika Risal , Stevanus Charlos
Published: October 2023

Lahan gambut merupakan salah satu lahan yang tidak layak untuk tanaman karet, namun dengan pengelolaan yang baik, lahan gambut dapat digunakan untuk budidaya tanaman karet. Kendala budidaya tanaman karet di lahan gambut antara lain drainase yang kurang baik, tanaman mudah tumbang pada saat tanaman sudah menghasilkan, pH tanah sangat masam dan kandungan hara yang rendah. Saat ini belum banyak hasil penelitian tanaman karet di lahan gambut, sehingga hasil-hasil penelitian di lahan gambut sangat dibutuhkan untuk pengelolaan lahan gambut untuk budidaya tanaman karet. Pengamatan produksi taaman karet di lahan gambut dilakukan pada tanaman karet klon IRR 118 yang ditanam pada tahun 2013. Karakteristik lahan gambut pada lokasi penelitian antara lain: drainase lahan gambut baik, kematangan gambut sapris, kedalaman gambut 1,5-2 meter, pH sangat masam, ketersediaan hara N tinggi dan hara lainnya rendah sampai sangat rendah. Tanaman karet telah matang sadap pada akhir tahun 2018 dan pengamatan produksi dilakukan selama tiga tahun dari tahun 2019-2021. Berdasarkan hasil pengamatan produksi selama tiga tahun tersebut menunjukkan bahwa tanaman karet klon IRR 118 produktivitas pada tahun pertama telah mencapai 965 kg/ha/tahun, tahun kedua mencapai 1.562 kg/ha/tahun dan tahun ketiga telah mencapai 2.043 kg/ha/tahun. Produksi tersebut sama dengan produktivitas klon quick stater di lahan mineral pada iklim yang sama.
TEKNOLOGI DAN ANALISIS USAHATANI KOPI SEBAGAI TANAMAN SELA DI PERKEBUNAN KARET
Authors: Akbar Andrea , Asywadi Hajar , Sahuri Sahuri
Published: October 2023

Pendapatan rumah tangga petani karet saat ini sedang menurun. Hal ini berdampak pada rendahnya daya beli, kemampuan menabung, pembentukan modal usaha tani, tingkat kesehatan dan pendidikan keluarga petani karet. Petani memerlukan pendapatan yang relatif stabil sepanjang siklus penanaman karet. Petani saat ini dapat menanam tanaman sela diantara tanaman karet. Tanaman kopi (Coffea canephora) dapat menjadi opsi tanaman sela diantara tanaman karet (Hevea brasiliensis). Penanaman tanaman sela perlu mempertimbangkan faktor kompetisi antar komoditi sehingga diperlukan penyesuaian jarak tanam. Jarak tanam yang digunakan adalah jarak tanam ganda (JG) 19 m + (4 m x 2 m) dengan populasi karet 435 pohon/ha. Kopi ditanam diantara jarak tanam lebar dengan jarak tanam 2 m x 2 m dan jarak antara tanaman kopi dan karet adalah 5 m. Kajian ini ditulis dengan metode studi pustaka dengan mengumpulkan data sekunder dari buku, jurnal dan penelitian yang sudah pernah dilakukan sebelumnya. Hasil analisis pendapatan usaha tani tumpang sari tanaman karet dan kopi menunjukkan hasil positif. Pendapatan usaha tani karet monokultur sebesar Rp9.717.159,52 per tahun per hektar, sementara rata-rata pendapatan untuk usaha tani kopi sebagai tanaman sela sebesar Rp38.814.285 per tahun per hektar dan rata-rata penerimaan usaha tani karet dan kopi sistem JG sebesar Rp48.531.444. Nilai NPV sistem karet monokultur layak pada tingkat bunga investasi 5%, masing-masing sebesar Rp5,603,746,- untuk sistem jarak tunggal (JT) dan Rp2.819.424,- untuk sistem jarak ganda (JG).
Cross laminated timber bonding quality for different brazilian species and pressing levels
Authors: Silva João Vítor Felippe , De Oliveira Karina Aparecida , Barros Oliveira Carolina Aparecida , Silva Maria Fernanda Felippe , Molina Julio Cesar
Published: October 2023

The proper choice of raw materials and manufacturing parameters for Cross Laminated Timber is essential to promote the proper bonding of the lamellas, aiming at their application in construction. However, few Brazilian species are currently used in the production of Cross Laminated Timber. The aim of this work was to characterize the bonding quality of four Brazilian reforestation species (Pinus elliottii, Eucalyptus grandis, Toona ciliata and Acrocarpus fraxinifolius) in the manufacture of Cross Laminated Timber with two-component polyurethane adhesive and five different pressure levels (from 0,1 MPa to 1,3 MPa). Bonding quality was evaluated through delamination and glue line shear tests based on the standard EN 14080 (2013). Delamination was affected by the wood species, and the best adhesion occurred for the Cross Laminated Timber manufactured with Pinus elliottii and Acrocarpus fraxinifolius at the bonding pressure of 0,7 MPa. Cross Laminated Timber bonding pressure did not affect the percentage of wood in the shear test fractured surface, whereas higher density Cross Laminated Timber showed higher percentages.
Physical, mechanical, and thermal characteristics of alkaline copper quaternary impregnated oriental beech wood
Authors: Altay Çağlar , Özdemir Emir , Baysal Ergün , Ergün Mehmet Emin , Toker Hilmi
Published: October 2023

The physical, mechanical, and thermal properties of Oriental beech (Fagus orientalis), which had been impregnated with the water-based, copper-containing Korasit KS material from the Alkaline Copper Quaternary group, were investigated in this study. According to ASTM 1413-07el (2007) standard, the wood samples used in the investigation were impregnated with 3 % and 6 % aqueous solutions of Korasit KS. The modulus of rupture, thermal, and water absorption tests were performed on samples of Oriental beech after they had been impregnated. Oriental beech's modulus of rupture values decreased as a result of Korasit KS impregnation. Additionally, Oriental beech had lower modulus of rupture values at greater concentrations of Korasit KS. In every water absorption period, the water absorption values of the Oriental beech impregnated with Korasit KS were higher than those of the control group. Our results showed that Korasit KS impregnation enhanced thermal properties of Oriental beech. Moreover, higher concentration levels of Oriental beech yielded better thermal characteristics of Oriental beech.
Ideologi Kesamarataan antara Lelaki dan Wanita Berdasarkan Perspektif Naqli dan Neurosains
Authors: Mohd Robiatul Adawiyah , Mohd Ghazali Norzulaili , Noh Nor Azila , Mukhtar Firdaus
Published: October 2023

The strife for equality between men and women is an ideology that has long been propagated by feminists. Among the equalities being propagated is women’s ability to use common sense at par with men to the extent that they proclaim some of the Qur’anic verses and hadiths related to women as irrelevant. To them, the prescribed texts seem to degrade women. To dispute this ideology, the classic and also the present scholars of Islam presented arguments to disprove the notion by the feminists. However, in rebutting this ideology, arguments based on the neuroscience perspective are yet to be discovered. Therefore, this article will incorporate the arguments from the perspectives of naqli (the Qur’an and Hadith) and neuroscience in terms of the different aspects of male and female brain function. This study employs qualitative methods through content analysis of Qur’anic texts, ahadith and neuroscience facts. The findings show that there are differences in the structure and function of the male and female brains. Consequently, there is no such ideology of equality due to the differences in the structure and function of the male and female brains that correspond to their roles and complement each other. It is hoped that this finding will enhance the public understanding that Islam glorifies women and that their obligations as caliphs on this earth are in accordance with their nature, either from the biological, psychological and emotional regards.
Extremist Characteristics Based on Arrested Cases in Southeast Asia
Authors: Ismail Ahmad Munawar , Mujani Wan Kamal
Published: October 2023

Various aspects such as character, thought, belief, speech, and action were observed to determine the traits of a typical human being. Identifying the characteristics of extremists can be challenging for society, and often only becomes apparent after an individual has been detained as an extremist offender. Religious extremist groups engage in subtle heresy by deviating from the authentic teachings of Islam and promoting these deviations to their adherents as a form of religious reform. This article will examine the transformation of heretics in Southeast Asia by describing extremist characteristics in select countries. This study employed qualitative methods, including content analysis, interviews, and focus group discussions, to investigate the involvement of experts and activists in the process of rehabilitating extremists. Data on the psychological rehabilitation of extremists was gathered and analyzed using authoritative sources such as the Qur’an, Hadith, and works by Muslim and Western scholars, with a focus on references related to Islam, extremism, and heresy. The study aimed to ascertain the attributes of the extremist who was apprehended and subjected to official scrutiny. The results will be applied to extremist traits data and indicators identified by national and international religious extremist researchers, including extremism analysts, university academics, and religious department officials. Consequently, this study can establish a standard indicator for identifying the characteristics of this group, aiding society in detecting and containing its associated movement.
Iodine supported poly(4-vinylpyridine): Efficient and recoverable catalyst for the synthesis of 3,3-diheteroaromatic oxindoles
Authors: Khaligh Dr. Nader Ghaffari , Mutalabisin Fathiy
Published: October 2023

An efficient methodology for the synthesis of 3,3-diheteroaromatic oxindole derivatives has been demonstrated by coupling indole-2,3-dione (isatin) with differently substituted indoles and pyrrole in the presence of iodine-supported on poly(4-vinylpyridine) under neutral and solvent-free conditions. The products were obtained in a short time and good to excellent yields.
La unidad agroproductiva familiar indígena del piedemonte Pacífico de Talamanca: Reserva de Biosfera La Amistad, Costa Rica
Authors: González-Brenes Frank , Elizondo-Sánchez David
Published: October 2023

En este artículo se caracteriza la unidad agroproductiva indígena de la vertiente del Pacífico de la Cordillera de Talamanca, Reserva de Biosfera La Amistad, de Costa Rica. Para ello, se analizaron 16 aprovechamientos agrícolas de tres comunidades indígenas del municipio de Buenos Aires, en la región del Pacífico Sur, con base en aspectos biofísicos, socioeconómicos, de comercialización y de gobernanza en torno de la unidad productiva familiar. El análisis de la diversificación del modelo productivo de agricultura familiar indígena, el comportamiento de los circuitos de comercialización y el potencial asociativo permitió identificar los aportes al desarrollo regional, así como las problemáticas que afectan su práctica y su permanencia. Esto se realiza a partir de lo que las políticas agroproductivas gubernamentales han promovido, mediante la imposición de un modelo de desarrollo exógeno, basado en monocultivos industriales que generan inestabilidad socioeconómica y ambiental, deficientes modelos de comercialización de la agroproducción y el empobrecimiento de los agropaisajes. Se determinó que la unidad productiva de agricultura familiar en el ámbito de estudio, a pesar de las amenazas a las que se enfrenta, favorece la aplicación de los principios y prácticas relacionadas con agroproducción sostenible, lo cual es esencial para aportar a la conservación de la biodiversidad y a la seguridad y la soberanía alimentaria de los habitantes de la Reserva de Biosfera La Amistad.
Internal governance and fraud prevention system: The potentiality of the spiritual quotient
Authors: Abdullah Muhammad Wahyuddin , Hanafie Hadriana , Bayan Andi Yustika Manrimawagau
Published: October 2023

Cases of financial fraud by local governments in Indonesia are on the rise, causing significant losses to the state. The weak internal control system and the apparatus’s low integrity are some well-known culprits, thus confirming the fraud diamond theory of Wolfe and Hermanson (2004). As a religious country, the potentiality of spirituality seeks to increase governmental internal control systems and regional management information systems that are still underrepresented in previous studies despite Nguyen and Crossan (2022) arguments that the infusion of virtue ethics into fraud management systems can greatly benefit from it. This article provides an empirical investigation as to whether implementing the government’s internal control system and regional management information systems might prevent fraud in Indonesian local governments, with the spiritual quotient (SQ) as the moderating factor in these relationships. This study employs a quantitative approach by collecting response data from the financial division apparatus in Indonesia. The sample was determined by the purposive sampling method and sent to the head of budget planning and treasury in Indonesia, resulting in 221 return questionnaires. The partial least squares structural equation modeling is used to analyze the direct and moderating relationships. This study reports that the implementation of the government’s internal control system and regional management information system has successfully prevented fraud in the financial reporting of local governments. The spiritual quotient strengthens the implementation of the government’s internal control system in avoiding fraud. However, the same does not occur with the regional management information system. The article concludes with discussions and implications.
Comparison of dopamine release and uptake parameters across sex, species and striatal subregions
Authors: Kuiper Lindsey , West Alyssa , DiMarco Emily , Galante Emma , Dawes Monica , Kishida Kenneth , Jones Sara
Published: October 2023

For over three decades, fast scan cyclic voltammetry (FSCV) has been
used to selectively measure neurotransmitters such as dopamine (DA) with
high spatial and temporal resolution, providing detailed information
about regulation of DA in the extracellular space. FSCV is an optimal
method for determining concentrations of stimulus-evoked DA in brain
tissue. When modeling diseases involving disturbances in DA
transmission, preclinical rodent models are especially useful because of
the availability of specialized tools and techniques that serve as a
foundation for translational research. There is known heterogeneity in
DA dynamics between and within DA-innervated brain structures and
between males and females. However, systematic evaluations of sex- and
species-differences across multiple areas are lacking. Therefore, using
FSCV, we captured a broad range of DA dynamics across five sub-regions
of the dorsal and ventral striatum of males and females of both rats and
mice that reflect the functional heterogeneity of DA kinetics and
dynamics within these structures. While numerous differences were found,
in particular we documented a strong, consistent pattern of increased DA
transporter activity in females in all of the regions surveyed. The data
herein are intended to be used as a resource for further investigation
of DA terminal function.
Characterization of phage vB_EcoP_HC25 and its therapeutic effect on chicken colibacillosis
Authors: Wang Yueying , Li Heping , Xie Danying , Huang Ruochao , Shi Bowen , Xie Jinghao , Yang Chen , Yao Xinyan , Jia Chaoxiang , Yang Guo-Yu , Guo Shuang
Published: October 2023

APEC (avian pathogenic Escherichia coli) infections result in huge
economic losses, the emergence of antibiotic resistance bacteria has
brought enormous pressure to public health. Bacteriophage therapy has
proved to be an attractive candidate for decreasing drug-resistant
bacteria. In this paper, a novel Escherichia coli phage vB_EcoP_HC25
was isolated from sewage. Phage vB_EcoP_HC25 had an elongated head,
and a short tail, exhibiting the typical features of the rare C3
morphotype phages. The optimal MOI of vB_EcoP_HC25 phage was 0.01, the
latency of vB_EcoP_HC25 was 30 min, and approximately 60 min for the
lytic phase. The lysis amount was approximately 105 PFU/cell. Phage
vB_EcoP_HC25 exhibited wide pH stability (pH 5~11) and
good temperature tolerance (< 60℃). In addition, the genomic
analysis revealed that phage vB_EcoP_HC25 did not carry any virulence
factor genes or antibiotic resistance genes. Moreover, it was found that
vB_EcoP_HC25 is a promising candidate phage for biocontrol against
antibiotic-resistant Escherichia coli in milk and chicken meat. In
addition, the results of the mental state, behavior, serum inflammatory
factors, and intestinal morphological analysis indicated that phage
vB_EcoP_HC25 was effective to control colibacillosis in chicks
infected with E. coli.
The role of adenoid immune phenotype in polysensitized children with allergic rhinitis and adenoid hypertrophy
Authors: LI YOUJIN , Hu Lanye , He Wenjun , Li Junyang , Miao Yan , Liang Huanhuan
Published: October 2023

Background: There has been increasing interest in elucidating
the relationship between adenoid hypertrophy (AH) and allergic rhinitis
(AR). However, the impact of aeroallergen sensitization patterns on
children concurrently experiencing AH and AR remains unclear.
Methods: Patients aged 2-8 years (January 2019 to
December 2022) with nasal symptoms were assessed for allergies, adenoid
size and respiratory viral infection history. The levels of serum total
immunoglobulin E (IgE) and specific IgE and flexible nasal endoscopy
were performed. We analyzed the relationship between AH and
sensitization patterns and lymphocyte subpopulations in adenoid samples
using flow cytometry. Results: 5281 children were enrolled in
our cohort. 56.5% of children was diagnosed with AR and 48.6% with AH.
AR was more prevalent in AH children compared to nAR. Compared to
non-sensitized, those with AR polysensitized to molds had a higher
prevalence of AH (adjusted OR 1.61, 95%CI 1.32-1.96) and a greater
occurrence of two or more respiratory viral infections, particularly in
cases with adenoidectomy. In AH-AR children, adenoid tissues showed
reduced frequencies and corrected absolute counts of regulatory T cells
(Tregs), activated Tregs, class-switched memory B cells (CSMB), natural
killer (NK) T cells and NK subpopulations compared to AH-nAR children.
Polysensitization in AH-AR children correlated with lower CSMB
frequencies. Conclusion: Polysensitivity to molds significantly
increased the risk of AH in children with AR. Adenoids of AR children
demonstrated less number of B cells, NK cells and Treg cells with an
effector/memory phenotype, which was closely linked to sensitization
models and respiratory viral infection, particularly concerning CSMB.
Regulation of late-acting operons by three transcription factors and a CRISPR-Cas component during Myxococcus xanthus development
Authors: Kroos Lee , Saha Shreya
Published: October 2023

Upon starvation rod-shaped Myxococcus xanthus bacteria form
mounds and then differentiate into round stress-resistant spores. Little
is known about the regulation of late-acting operons important for spore
formation. C-signaling has been proposed to activate FruA, which binds
DNA cooperatively with MrpC to increase transcription of many genes. We
report that this model can explain regulation of the fadIJ operon
involved in spore metabolism, but not that of the spore coat biogenesis
operons exoA-I, exoL-P, and nfsA-H. Rather, a
mutation in fruA increased the transcript levels from these
operons early in development, suggesting negative regulation by FruA
initially, and a mutation in mrpC affected transcript levels from
each operon differently. FruA bound to all four promoter regions
in vitro, but strikingly each promoter region was unique in terms
of whether or not MrpC and the DNA-binding domain of Nla6 bound, and in
terms of cooperative binding. Furthermore, the DevI component of a
CRISPR-Cas system is a negative regulator of all four operons, based on
transcript measurements. Our results demonstrate complex regulation of
sporulation genes by three transcription factors and a CRISPR-Cas
component, which we propose thwarts viral intrusion while making spores
suited to withstand starvation and environmental insults.
Quality of randomised controlled trials, systematic reviews and meta-analyses in paediatric surgery: a cross-sectional analysis
Authors: Jiang Wilson , Wang Bill , Sperandei Sandro , Tan Aidan
Published: October 2023

Background: There are few randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in
paediatric surgery, and the risk of bias of these studies is unknown.
There is also little known about the methodological or reporting quality
of systematic reviews and meta-analyses in paediatric surgery. We aimed
to determine the risk of bias and reporting quality of recent RCTs,
systematic reviews and meta-analyses in paediatric surgery, and the
associations with study characteristics. Methods: We searched MEDLINE,
Embase, Cochrane Library, JBI EBP Database, Centre for Reviews and
Dissemination, Web of Science and high-impact journals for all RCTs,
systematic reviews and meta-analyses in paediatric surgery published in
2021. We assessed the risk of bias and reporting quality of RCTs using
the RoB 2 and CONSORT tools, respectively. We assessed the same
parameters for systematic reviews and meta-analyses using the ROBIS and
PRISMA tools. Findings: We identified 82 RCTs and 289 systematic reviews
or meta-analyses in paediatric surgery published in 2021. More than half
(n=46, 56%) of RCTs and almost all (n=278, 96%) systematic reviews and
meta-analyses were at high risk of bias. Only one (1%) RCT and 4 (1%)
systematic reviews and meta-analyses were adequately reported. We found
that lower risk of bias and higher reporting quality in RCTs, systematic
reviews, and meta-analyses were associated with the presence of a
published protocol. For systematic reviews and meta-analyses, a higher
PRISMA score was associated with being a Cochrane review. Surprisingly,
we found that more than half of systematic reviews and meta-analyses
(n=162, 56.1%) had no risk of bias assessments. Conclusions: Recently
published RCTs, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses in paediatric
surgery are at high risk of bias and have poor reporting quality. We
suggest strategies for how trialists, systematic reviewers and other
stakeholders across the research lifecycle can design, conduct and
report higher quality research in paediatric surgery.
Human-Wildlife Conflict in High Altitude: a case from Gaurishankar Conservation Area (968 m – 7181m amsl), Nepal
Authors: Pathak Abhinaya , Lamichhane Saneer , Dhakal Maheshwar , Karki Ajay , Madhu Chetri , Mintz Jeffrey , Pun Prakash , Neupane Pramila , Dahal Tulasi , Rayamajhi Trishna , Paudel Prashamsa , Regmi Pramod , Thami Shankar , Thapa Ganesh , Thapa Ashim , Khanal Suraj , Lama Supriya , Karki Jenisha , Ferdin Arockia
Published: October 2023

The human-wildlife conflict (HWC) is a serious problem that affects both
human and wildlife populations worldwide. This study investigates the
prevalence and increasing trend of HWC in the Gaurishankar Conservation
Area (GCA) of Nepal, with a specific focus on leopard (Panthera pardus)
and Himalayan black bear (Ursus thibetanus laniger) as conflict-causing
species. The study analyzes a decade of HWC data and identifies goats as
the livestock most targeted by leopards. The Dolakha district of GCA
experiences the highest number of conflicts, highlighting the need for
mitigation measures in the area. In GCA, livestock attacks alone
accounted for 85% of compensation, with the remaining 15% for human
injuries. Annual attack reports have shown a significant increase, with
a 33% rise year-on-year. The rule change in 2076 BS led to 57 more
attacks than expected based on the previous year’s growth. While bear
attacks showed no significant change post-rule alteration (t = 0.725, p
= 0.5105), leopard attack reports surged from 1 to 60 annually,
indicating a significant increase in reporting rates (t = 9.77, p =
0.0097). The findings emphasize the economic impact of HWC on local
communities and suggest strategies such as increasing prey populations,
promoting community education and awareness, enhancing alternative
livelihood options such as eco-tourism, and implementing secure
enclosures (corrals) to minimize conflicts and foster harmonious
coexistence. This research addresses a knowledge gap in HWC in
high-altitude conservation areas like the GCA, providing valuable
insights for conservation stakeholders and contributing to biodiversity
conservation and the well-being of both humans and wildlife. Keywords:
Human-wildlife conflict; High altitude, Leopard; Himalayan black bear;
Gaurishankar Conservation Area; Conservation intervention; Co-existence
The effect of intrauterine manipulator on oncological outcome in early-stage, low-grade endometrial cancer: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Ye Yexin , Timmermans Maite , Aa Maaike van der , Cessie Saskia le , Jonges Trudy N. , Janse Jullienne , Gerestein Kees
Published: October 2023

Objective To evaluate the influence of intrauterine (IU) or
non-IU manipulators on oncological outcome in early-stage, low-grade
endometrioid endometrial cancer (EEC). Design Retrospective
cohort study Setting Nationwide population-based study in the
Netherlands Population Women with FIGO stage I, low-grade EEC
who received total laparoscopic hysterectomy between 2010 and 2020.
Methods Patient data were identified from the Netherlands
Cancer Registry. Data regarding hospital manipulator preferences were
retrieved through an online survey. Patients were categorized based on
hospital manipulator preference. Survival analyses were performed using
univariable and multivariable cox regression analysis. Main
outcome measures Recurrence of cancer, disease-free survival (DFS),
overall survival (OS), site of recurrence, and manipulator preference
according to type of hospital. Results Of the total study
population (N = 5,205), 1524 (29.3%) patients underwent surgery in
hospitals that used non-IU manipulators and 3681 (70.7%) in hospitals
that used IU manipulators. Recurrence of cancer was experienced by 195
patients, 49 (3.2%) in the non-IU group and 146 (4.0%) in the IU
group. No significant difference in site of recurrence was observed
(p=0.778). After adjusting for potential confounders, type of uterus
manipulator did not affect DFS (hazard ratio [HR] 0.93, 95%
confidence interval [CI] 0.78–1.11) and OS (HR 0.90, 95% CI
0.75–1.09). Conclusion IU manipulators are not inferior to
non-IU manipulators with respect to oncological outcome in early-stage,
low-grade EEC.
Developing an international concept-based curriculum for pharmacology education: core concepts and concept inventories
Authors: Guilding Clare , Kelly Roisin , Netere Adeladlew , Babey Anna Marie , Restini Carolina , Cunningham Margaret , Kelly John , Koenig Jennifer , Karpa Kelly , Hawes Martin , Tucker Steven , Angelo Thomas , White Paul
Published: October 2023

Many science and health profession graduates lack fundamental
pharmacology knowledge and the ability to apply pharmacology concepts in
practice. This article reviews the current challenges faced by
pharmacology educators, including the exponential growth in discipline
knowledge and competition for curricular time. We then argue that
pharmacology education should focus on essential concepts that enable
students to develop beyond ‘know’ towards ‘know how to’. A concept-based
approach will help educators prioritise and benchmark their pharmacology
curriculum, facilitate integration of pharmacology with other
disciplines in the curriculum, create alignment between universities,
and improve the application of pharmacology knowledge to professional
contexts such as safe prescribing practices. To achieve this, core
concepts first need to be identified, unpacked, and methods for teaching
and assessment using concept inventories developed. The International
Society for Basic and Clinical Pharmacology Education Section
(IUPHAR-Ed) Core Concepts in Pharmacology (CCP) initiative involves over
300 educators from the global pharmacology community. CCP has identified
and defined the core concepts of pharmacology, together with key
underpinning sub-concepts. To realise these benefits, pharmacology
educators must identify, unpack, and develop methods to teach and assess
core concepts. Work to develop a concept inventories is ongoing,
including the identification of student misconceptions of the core
concepts and the creation of a bank of multiple-choice questions to
assess student understanding. Future work aims to develop and validate
materials and methods to help educators embed core concepts within
curricula. Potential strategies that educators can use to overcome
factors that inhibit adoption of core concepts are presented.
Immersive Virtual Reality for symptom management in breast cancer patients：a systematic review and meta-analysis of Randomized Control Trial
Authors: Zhang qunhong , Li Zhongzheng , Shen Jichuan , Song Qiuyue
Published: October 2023

Design: A systematic review according to Preferred Reporting Items for
Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses(PRISMA) 2020 Statement. It is
registered in the Prospective Registry of International Systematic
Reviews (PROSPERO) database. (Registration number:
CRD42023447007).[PubMed, Embase, The Cochrane Library, Web of Science,
CNKI, Wanfang Data Knowledge Service Platform, and Chinese Scientific
and Technical Journal Database (VIP) were searched from the library’s
construction to August 1, 2023. Methods: After literature screening,
data extraction, and evaluation of literature quality were independently
performed by 2 researchers trained in evidence-based care according to
the inclusion and exclusion criteria, and meta-analysis was performed
using RevMan 5.4. Results: A total of 6 randomized controlled trials
containing 531 patients were included. Meta-analysis showed that
IVR-based interventions helped to improve anxiety symptoms
[SMD=-2.06,95% CI= (-2.73,-1.40), P<0.0001], depressive
symptoms [SMD=-2.31,95% CI=(-4.39,0.23), P=0.03] and fatigue
symptoms [SMD=-1.94,95%CI=(-3.18,-0.71), P=0.002]; the qualitative
analysis results showed that IVR technology could improve the pain and
the quality of life of breast cancer patients, and the difference was
statistically significant (P<0.05). Conclusions: IVR
technology applied to breast cancer patients can improve their anxiety,
depression, pain, fatigue, and other symptoms, and improve their quality
of life, and it is interesting and worth promoting. Due to the limited
number of included studies and sample size, more large-sample trials are
to be conducted to explore the applicability and feasibility of IVR
technology in symptom management of breast cancer patients and to
validate the above results.
The Energy Decay of Warm-core Eddies in the Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Meunier Thomas , Bower Amy S , Pérez-Brunius Paula , Graef Federico
Published: October 2023

The Gulf of Mexico (GoM) is home to some of the most energetic eddies in
the ocean. They detach from the Loop-Current and drift through the
basin, transporting large amounts of heat and salt. These eddies, known
as Loop Current rings (LCRs) have a crucial role in the GoM’s dynamics
and in the weather of the eastern US, and this role is largely
conditioned by their longevity and decay properties. Here, we use an
empirical method to estimate the energy evolution of all LCRs detached
since 1993. We found that, contrary to the commonly accepted idea that
LCRs conserve their energy as they drift through the GoM and decay
suddenly against the western platform, LCRs’ energy decays faster in the
eastern basin, and they typically lose three-quarter of their energy
before encountering the continental shelf. We also show that
wind-current feedback largely contributes to the energy decay and
conversion.
Wavelet Analysis of Differential TEC Measurements Obtained Using LOFAR
Authors: Boyde Ben , Wood Alan George , Dorrian Gareth , Sweijen Frits , Gasperin Francesco de , Mevius Maaijke , Beser Kasia , Themens David R.
Published: October 2023

Radio interferometers used to make astronomical observations, such as
the LOw Frequency ARray (LOFAR), experience distortions imposed upon the
received signal due to the ionosphere as well as those from instrumental
errors. Calibration using a well-characterised radio source can be used
to mitigate these effects and produce more accurate images of
astronomical sources, and the calibration process provides measurements
of ionospheric conditions over a wide range of length scales. The basic
ionospheric measurement this provides is differential Total Electron
Content (TEC, the integral of electron density along the line of sight).
Differential TEC measurements made using LOFAR have a precision of
<1 mTECu and therefore enable investigation of ionospheric
disturbances which may be undetectable to many other methods. We
demonstrate an approach to identify ionospheric waves from these data
using a wavelet transform and a simple plane wave model. The noise
spectra are robustly characterised to provide uncertainty estimates for
the fitted parameters. An example is shown in which this method
identifies a wave with an amplitude an order of magnitude below those
reported using GNSS TEC measurements. Artificially generated data are
used to test the accuracy of the method and establish the range of
wavelengths which can be detected using this method with LOFAR data.
This technique will enable the use of a large and mostly unexplored
dataset to study travelling ionospheric disturbances over Europe.