bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RETRACTED: A meta‐analysis of the effect of endoscopic submucosal dissection compared with gastrectomy on the wound infection in early stomach cancer subjects
Authors: Sun Cheng , Liu Weilin , Jiang Jianye , Zhang Hongyan , Wang Pan , Sun Jing , Sun Aimin
Published: January 2023

We conducted a meta‐analysis to assess the effect of endoscopic submucosal dissection compared with gastrectomy on the wound infection in early stomach cancer subjects. A systematic literature search up to November 2022 was performed and 2765 related studies were evaluated. The chosen studies comprised 7842 early stomach cancer subjects participated in the selected studies' baseline trials; 3308 of them used the endoscopic submucosal dissection, while 4534 used gastrectomy. Odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to assess the wound infection in endoscopic submucosal dissection versus gastrectomy for early stomach cancer by the dichotomous methods with a random or fixed effect model. The use of endoscopic submucosal dissection resulted in significantly lower wound infection (OR, 0.45; 95% CI, 0.34–0.60, P < .001) with no heterogeneity (I2 = 8%) compared with the gastrectomy for early stomach cancer. The use of endoscopic submucosal dissection resulted in significantly lower wound infection compared with the gastrectomy for early stomach cancer. The small sample size of some studies in the comparison calls for care when analysing the results.
Contribution of ceramides metabolism in psychiatric disorders
Authors: Bernal‐Vega Sofía , García‐Juárez Martín , Camacho‐Morales Alberto
Published: January 2023

Psychiatric disorders affect 970 million people worldwide, representing a significant source of disability. Although the underlying neurobiological traits for these disorders are not fully understood, a complex interplay between psychological, environmental, and biological factors contributes to their outcomes. Recent advances in lipidomic analysis and artificial intelligence algorithms have improved the identification of selective lipid species modulating the susceptibility to mental disorders. Sphingolipids (SLs) and ceramides‐related SLs are among the most abundant lipids species in the brain that support major key pathways during neurodevelopment and brain plasticity. High levels of ceramides in plasma and brain contribute to psychiatric illness susceptibility in humans and animal models. However, the neuropathological mechanism regarding the involvement of ceramides in these disorders remain inconclusive. The brain is highly susceptible to nutritional insults, which could lead to functional impairment and influence the development and progression of psychiatric disorders. While the brain relies on glucose metabolism to support its physiological needs, a selective nutrient formula appears to have greater effects on brain health than others. For instance, consumption of high‐energy diets is associated with brain anatomical, physiological, and metabolic changes, including ceramides metabolism. Herein, we will address the contribution of ceramides metabolism as a modulator of major psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and attention deficit‐hyperactivity disorder. We will also describe molecular and cellular targets of ceramides metabolism assisting the maintenance and progression of psychiatric disorders and their modulation by dietary formulas as non‐pharmacologic treatments.

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Applying human factors to improve patient safety, morale and team working for oral pathology and medicine specialists
Authors: Brennan Peter A. , Hardie John , Oeppen Rachel S.
Published: January 2023

Background

Human error is inevitable, and therefore can be considered as a ‘normal’ part of everyday life. Unfortunately, error can never be eliminated completely. However, learning from our mistakes can help reduce problems in future. Fifty years ago, most clinicians paid little or no attention to the human factors (HF) that can affect individual and team performance. It has only been in the last 20–25 years that colleagues in healthcare have truly begun recognizing the importance of HF and non‐technical skills in medicine and dentistry and how their application can significantly improve patient safety and aid better team working and staff morale in the clinical setting and laboratory.

Discussion

Personal factors such as stress, tiredness, hunger and dehydration all reduce human performance and can raise the risk of mistakes. In addition, how we work and interact with the wider team is important since many errors can occur because of ineffective communication, steep hierarchal (authority) gradients and loss of situational awareness.  This short HF overview in the 50th commemorative special of JOPM issue is timely. It provides a contemporary overview of human factors and performance that the authors consider important for oral medicine and pathology colleagues and which can affect individuals and teams This article also discuss ways to reduce the chances of medical and dental error and improve patient safety.
Solid‐phase microextraction and cuticular hydrocarbon differences related to reproductive activity in juniper bark borer Semanotus bifasciatus Motschulsky
Authors: Fang Jia‐Xing , Chen Da‐Feng , Shi Xia , Zhang Su‐Fang , Liu Fu , Shen Wei‐Xing , Jia Chun‐Yan , Ma Shen‐Cheng , Zhang Zhen , Kong Xiang‐Bo
Published: January 2023

Cuticular hydrocarbons of Cerambycidae species can function as signals for sex recognition. Little is known about the copulatory signals of the juniper bark borer Semanotus bifasciatus, a major economic threat to Platycladus orientalis Franco in China. Here, we investigated the cuticular hydrocarbons of both sexes of S. bifasciatus to determine the chemically mediated mating signals using the solid‐phase microextraction (SPME) technique with carbowax/divinylbenzene fibers (CAR/DVB) and then analyzed by coupled gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry (GC‐MS). A series of aliphatic saturated straight‐chain n‐alkanes (n‐C23 to n‐C28), internally branched monomethylalkanes at carbons 3, 11, or 13, and dimethylalkanes were identified, which showed no qualitative differences in either sex and were similar in the samples with SPME fiber extraction and those with hexane extraction. The bioassay showed that 11‐methylpentacosane (11‐MeC25), 11‐methylhexacosane (11‐MeC26), and 11‐methylheptacosane (11‐MeC27) have sex‐specific recognition functions that triggered more mating attempts at a female‐specific ratio of 100:4:60 than at a male‐specific ratio of 100:85:50. In addition, the female‐specific ratio of 11‐methylalkanes can elicit about 70% of male mating attempts within about 60 s, whereas live females elicit about 98% of male mating attempts within 25 s. The discrepancy in the initiation of mating attempts by synthetic mixtures and live females suggests that the methyl isomers 3‐MeC25, 3‐MeC27, and/or 11,15‐diMeC27 may also be involved in the mating behavior of S. bifasciatus. These results suggest that 11‐MeC25, 11‐MeC26, and 11‐MeC27 constitute the contact sex pheromone of S. bifasciatus, with the presence or absence of 11‐MeC26 in particular playing an important role in mate recognition by males.
Autochthonous Babesia canis infections in 49 dogs in Germany
Authors: Weingart Christiane , Helm Christina S. , Müller Elisabeth , Schäfer Ingo , Skrodzki Marianne , von Samson‐Himmelstjerna Georg , Krücken Jürgen , Kohn Barbara
Published: January 2023

Background

Vector‐borne diseases are of increasing importance in Germany. Since 2015, autochthonous cases have been increasingly documented in Berlin/Brandenburg.

Objectives

Describe autochthonous Babesia canis infection in the Berlin/Brandenburg region.

Animals

Forty‐nine dogs with autochthonous B. canis infection.

Methods

Evaluation of history, clinical signs, laboratory abnormalities, treatment, and outcome.

Results

Dogs were presented between March and August (9) and September and January (40) in the years 2015‐2021. Historical and clinical findings were lethargy (100%), pale mucous membranes (63%), fever (50%), and pigmenturia (52%). Common clinicopathological findings were thrombocytopenia (100%), anemia (85%), intravascular hemolysis (52%), pancytopenia (41%), and systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS; 37%). Babesia detection was based on blood smear evaluation (n = 40) and PCR targeting the 18S rRNA gene of piroplasms (n = 49). Sequencing indicated 99.47% to 100% identity to B. canis sequences from GenBank. All dogs were treated with imidocarb (2.4‐6.3 mg/kg; median, 5 mg/kg); 8 dogs received 1, 35 received 2, and 1 dog each received 3, 4, or 5 injections, respectively. Continued PCR‐positive results were detected in 7 dogs after the 1st, in 5 after the 2nd, in 2 after the 3rd, and in 1 28 days after the 4th injection. Four dogs were euthanized and 3 dogs died.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Autochthonous B. canis infections in Berlin/Brandenburg were associated with severe clinicopathological changes, SIRS, and multiorgan involvement. Testing by PCR during and after treatment is advisable to monitor treatment success. Screening of blood donors in high‐risk areas and year‐round tick protection is strongly recommended.
Eudaimonic wellbeing and life expectancy
Authors: Becchetti Leonardo , Pisani Fabio , Acar Berkan
Published: January 2023

We investigate the relationship between eudaimonic wellbeing (sense of life) and subjective survival probability (SSP), a proxy for self‐assessed life expectancy. Our econometric analysis uses 220,601 observations of SHARE panel data from 2006 to 2015. We find evidence of a robust and strong positive relationship between eudaimonic wellbeing and subjective survival probability after controlling for self‐assessed health, coupled with a negative effect of sense of life on mortality. The magnitude of the first effect is relevant, since the minimum difference (adjusted for fixed effects) between individuals declaring the highest versus the lowest sense of life is a 7‐point higher self‐assessed probability of being alive at the target age. Together, our two main findings imply that when respondents declare a high sense of life, they self‐report a lower mortality risk and their predictions are correct.
The accessory protein TagV is required for full Type VI secretion system activity in Serratia marcescens
Authors: Reglinski Mark , Monlezun Laura , Coulthurst Sarah J.
Published: January 2023

The bacterial Type VI secretion system (T6SS) is a dynamic macromolecular structure that promotes inter‐ and intra‐species competition through the delivery of toxic effector proteins into neighbouring cells. The T6SS contains 14 well‐characterised core proteins necessary for effector delivery (TssA‐M, PAAR). In this study, we have identified a novel accessory component required for optimal T6SS activity in the opportunistic pathogen Serratia marcescens, which we name TagV. Deletion of tagV, which encodes an outer membrane lipoprotein, caused a reduction in the T6SS‐dependent antibacterial activity of S. marcescens Db10. Mutants of S. marcescens lacking the core component TssJ, a distinct outer membrane lipoprotein previously considered essential for T6SS firing, retained a modest T6SS activity that could be abolished through deletion of tagV. TagV did not interact with the T6SS membrane complex proteins TssL or TssM, but is proposed to bind to peptidoglycan, indicating that the mechanism by which TagV promotes T6SS firing differs from that of TssJ. Homologues of tagV were identified in several other bacterial genera, suggesting that the accessory function of TagV is not restricted to S. marcescens. Together, our findings support the existence of a second, TssJ‐independent mechanism for T6SS firing that is dependent upon the activity of TagV proteins.
Wild mammals involved in the transmission of Trypanosoma cruzi and food sources of Triatoma sherlocki in an endemic region of northeastern Brazil
Authors: Santos Flavia , Magalhaes‐Junior Jairo Torres , de Oliveira Carneiro Ianei , Lambert Sabrina Mota , da Silva Souza Bárbara Maria Paraná , de Pauda Alini Dias , de Freitas Marcondes Pessoa , Franke Carlos Roberto
Published: January 2023

The present study, carried out in the municipality of Gentio do Ouro, Bahia, Brazil aimed to evaluate which wild mammals may be involved in the transmission of T. cruzi and which are the blood sources for triatomines collected in the study area. PCR analysis of 31 wild mammals captured revealed T. cruzi infection in 6.4% (2/31): one specimen of the opossum Didelphis albiventris (1/3) and one of the rodent Kerodon rupestris (1/5); despite being more frequent in the area, no specimen of the rodent Thrichomys sp. (0/23) was infected. A total of 169 triatomines were captured. The conclusive detection of food sources was possible only for Triatoma sherlocki Papa et al., 2002 (n = 56), with evidence for: K. rupestris (35.7%), Gallus (17.9%), D. albiventris (14.3%), Homo sapiens (14.3%), Tropidurus hispidus (7.1%), Leopardus geoffroyi (5.3%), Conepatus semistriatus (1.8%), Thrichomys inermis (1.8%) and Rattus norvegicus (1.8%). Triatomines of the species T. sherlocki showed food eclecticism, including feeding on humans, with some of them being captured at dwellings. These facts make this triatomine a potential link for the transmission of T. cruzi between wild and anthropic environments, highlighting a latent risk of the reemergence of Chagas disease outbreaks.
Impact of Rome IV criteria on the prevalence of post‐infection irritable bowel syndrome
Authors: Breen‐Lyles Margaret , Decuir Marijke , Byale Anjali , Smith Kirk , Grover Madhusudan
Published: January 2023

Background

The Rome IV irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) criteria include changes to the description and frequency of abdominal pain. Existing studies have demonstrated a lower prevalence and greater severity in IBS patients identified using Rome IV than Rome III criteria. Our aim was to investigate the prevalence of post‐infection IBS (PI‐IBS) using Rome IV criteria in a population‐based cohort of laboratory‐confirmed C. jejuni infection cases.

Methods

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) requires notification of Campylobacter cases and interviews patients to gather information on clinical symptoms. For this study, the Rome IV diagnostic questionnaire was utilized 6–9 months after infection to determine the development of PI‐IBS. The survey responses were analyzed for the prevalence of IBS and symptom severity.

Key Results

Surveys were completed by 391 participants (31% response rate). Twenty‐three patients had pre‐existing IBS, and 18 did not complete enough questions to categorize their case status. Of the 350 remaining participants, 58 (17%) met Rome IV criteria. An additional 47 patients would have met the Rome III IBS criteria for pain frequency, driving the cumulative prevalence to 30%. The mean IBS Symptom Severity Score (IBS‐SSS) in Rome IV patients was significantly higher than in Rome III (p < 0.05). With Rome IV, IBS‐diarrhea was the most common subtype.

Conclusions & Inferences

Rome IV criteria resulted in a 19% lower prevalence of PI‐IBS than earlier reported Rome III‐based prevalence in a similar population. Rome IV defined PI‐IBS patients have greater symptom severity but similar distribution of IBS subtypes.
Integrated therapy of intraductal irrigations and sialoendoscopies of salivary glands to improve mouth dryness
Authors: Aframian Doron J. , Bar Ori , Wilensky Asaf , Nadler Chen , Almoznino Galit
Published: January 2023

Objective

To assess the combination of salivary gland intraductal irrigations (IG) followed by sialoendoscopy irrigations (SI) of the parotid gland on the improvement of salivary gland secretory dysfunction (SGSD).

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the records of SGSD patients who underwent major salivary gland IG followed by SI during 2014–2020. Records included demographics, systemic background, signs, and symptoms. Improvement was assessed by comparing the mean unstimulated and stimulated whole salivary flow rate (UWSF, SWSF) from the baseline point (before IG procedure) to the last point (after SI) using repeated measures. The between‐subjects effects of various factors and covariants were analyzed using repeated measures ANCOVA.

Results

One hundred patients were included with an age range of 15–83 years (mean age of 60.1 ± 13.1 years). Improvement was detected on UWSF measurements (p = 0.031, F = 3.83), but not on SWSF measurements (p = 0.165, F = 1.85). The between‐subjects effects on UWSF measurements were statistically significant for sex (p = 0.003, F = 9.526) and salivary gland manipulators use (p < 0.001, F = 15.107) and for the interaction between sex and salivary gland manipulators use (p‐ = 0.002, F = 9.709). Results of long‐term follow‐up for 10.87 ± 11.79 months after the SI procedure demonstrated sustained improvement in UWSF measurements (p = 0.011, F = 4.91).

Conclusions

The combination of IG followed by SI increases UWSF salivary secretion in SGSD patients for a relatively extended duration.
Efficiency and safety of high‐power ablation guided by Lesion size index: An ex vivo porcine heart study
Authors: Huo Shengqi , Wang Qian , Jiang Yue , Shi Wei , Luo Pengcheng , Guo Junyi , Peng Dewei , Zhu Mengying , Men Lintong , Jiang Tao , Wang Moran , Peng Lulu , Huang Bingyu , Shi Meijing , Zhu Bo , Bai Rong , Day John D. , Lv Jiagao , Lin Li
Published: January 2023

Background

Although Lesion size index (LSI) has been reported to highly predict radiofrequency lesion size in vitro, its accuracy in lesion size and steam pop estimation has not been well investigated for every possible scenario.

Methods

Initially, radiofrequency ablations were performed on porcine myocardial slabs at various power, CF, and time settings with blinded LSI. Subsequently, radiofrequency power at 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60 W was applied at CF values of 5, 10, 20, and 30 g to reach target LSIs of 4, 5, 6, and 7. Lesion size and steam pops were recorded for each ablation.

Results

Lesion size was positively correlated with LSI regardless of power settings (p < 0.001). The linear correlation coefficients of lesion size and LSI decreased at higher power settings. At high power combined with high CF settings (50 W/20 g), lesion depth and LSI showed an irrelevant correlation (p = 0.7855). High‐power ablation shortened ablation time and increased the effect of resistive heating. LSI could predict the risk of steam pops at high‐power settings with the optimal threshold of 5.65 (sensitivity, 94.1%; specificity, 46.1%). The ablation depth of the heavy heart was shallower than that of the light heart under similar ablation settings.

Conclusions

LSI could predict radiofrequency lesion size and steam pops at high power settings in vitro, while synchronous high power and high CF should be avoided. Lighter hearts require relatively lower ablation settings to create appropriate ablation depth.
The C2H2‐type zinc finger transcription factor OSIC1 positively regulates stomatal closure under osmotic stress in poplar
Authors: Bai Qiuxian , Niu Zhimin , Chen Qingyuan , Gao Chengyu , Zhu Mingjia , Bai Jiexian , Liu Meijun , He Ling , Liu Jianquan , Jiang Yuanzhong , Wan Dongshi
Published: January 2023

Salt and drought impair plant osmotic homeostasis and greatly limit plant growth and development. Plants decrease stomatal aperture to reduce water loss and maintain osmotic homeostasis, leading to improved stress tolerance. Herein, we identified the C2H2 transcription factor gene OSMOTIC STRESS INDUCED C2H2 1 (OSIC1) from Populus alba var. pyramidalis to be induced by salt, drought, polyethylene glycol 6000 (PEG6000) and abscisic acid (ABA). Overexpression of OSIC1 conferred transgenic poplar more tolerance to high salinity, drought and PEG6000 treatment by reducing stomatal aperture, while its mutant generated by the CRISPR/Cas9 system showed the opposite phenotype. Furthermore, OSIC1 directly up‐regulates PalCuAOζ in vitro and in vivo, encoding a copper‐containing polyamine oxidase, to enhance H2O2 accumulation in guard cells and thus modulates stomatal closure when stresses occur. Additionally, ABA‐, drought‐ and salt‐induced PalMPK3 phosphorylates OSIC1 to increase its transcriptional activity to PalCuAOζ. This regulation of OSIC1 at the transcriptional and protein levels guarantees rapid stomatal closure when poplar responds to osmotic stress. Our results revealed a novel transcriptional regulatory mechanism of H2O2 production in guard cells mediated by the OSIC1‐PalCuAOζ module. These findings deepen our understanding of how perennial woody plants, like poplar, respond to osmotic stress caused by salt and drought and provide potential targets for breeding.
The push for financial inclusion in Africa: Should central banks be wary of political institutional quality and literacy rates?
Authors: Agoba Abel Mawuko , Sare Yakubu Awudu , Anarfo Ebenezer Bugri , Tsekpoe Christian
Published: January 2023

Motivated by the literature on reform complementarities and their importance for the effectiveness of central bank independence (CBI) reforms—particularly for African countries—where CBI has empirically not been found to have a significant impact on financial development, we explore the extent to which differences in literacy levels and political institutions could determine the extent and impact of CBI on financial inclusion. Using panel data from 2004 to 2014, we find that, while CBI does not promote financial inclusion in Africa, financial literacy and political institutions do; even to the extent of enabling CBI's impact on financial inclusion. The results are robust to different measures of political institutions from Freedom House and Polity IV Database and present implications for the role governments could play in shepherding central banks in Africa in the midst of Africa's developmental challenges and the global crises.

Related Articles

Aideyan, Osaore. 2016. “Political and Institutional Prerequisites for Monetary Union: Assessing Progress in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).” Politics & Policy 44(6): 1192–212. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12183.

Asongu, Simplice A., Joseph Nnanna, and Vanessa S. Tchamyou. 2021. “Finance, Institutions, and Private Investment in Africa.” Politics & Policy 49(2): 309–51. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12395.

Scarlato, Margherita, and Giorgio d'Agostino. 2019. “The Political Dimension of Cash Transfers in Latin America and Sub‐Saharan Africa: A Comparative Perspective.” Politics & Policy 47(6): 1125–55. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12332.
Functional characterization of MdERF113 in apple
Authors: Rui Lin , Zhu Zi‐Qi , Yang Yu‐Ying , Wang Da‐Ru , Liu Hao‐Feng , Zheng Peng‐Fei , Li Hong‐Liang , Liu Guo‐Dong , Liu Ran‐Xin , Wang Xiaofei , Zhang Shuai , You Chun‐Xiang
Published: January 2023

The AP2/ERF family is an important class of transcription factors involved in plant growth and various biological processes. One of the AP2/ERF transcription factors, RAP2.6L, participates in various stresses responses. However, the function of RAP2.6L is largely unknown in apples (Malus domestica). In this study, an apple gene homologous to Arabidopsis AtRAP2.6L, MdERF113, was analyzed by bioinformatic characterization, gene expression analysis and subcellular localization assessment. MdERF113 was highly expressed in the sarcocarp and was responsive to hormonal signals and abiotic stresses. MdERF113‐overexpression apple calli were less sensitive to low temperature, drought, salinity, and abscisic acid than wild‐type. Subcellular localization revealed that MdERF113 was a nuclear‐localized transcription factor, and yeast experiments confirmed that MdERF113 has no autonomous activation activity. Overall, this study indicated that MdERF113 plays a role in regulating plant growth under abiotic conditions.
Cyber risk assessment in small and medium‐sized enterprises: A multilevel decision‐making approach for small e‐tailors
Authors: Sukumar Arun , Mahdiraji Hannan Amoozad , Jafari‐Sadeghi Vahid
Published: January 2023

The role played by information and communication technologies in today's businesses cannot be underestimated. While such technological advancements provide numerous advantages and opportunities, they are known to thread organizations with new challenges such as cyberattacks. This is particularly important for small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) that are deemed to be the least mature and highly vulnerable to cybersecurity risks. Thus, this research is set to assess the cyber risks in online retailing SMEs (e‐tailing SMEs). Therefore, this article employs a sample of 124 small e‐tailers in the United Kingdom and takes advantage of a multi‐criteria decision analysis (MCDA) method. Indeed, we identified a total number of 28 identified cyber‐oriented risks in five exhaustive themes of “security,” “dependency,” “employee,” “strategic,” and “legal” risks. Subsequently, an integrated approach using step‐wise weight assessment ratio analysis (SWARA) and best–worst method (BWM) has been employed to develop a pathway of risk assessment. As such, the current study outlines a novel approach toward cybersecurity risk management for e‐tailing SMEs and discusses its effectiveness and contributions to the cyber risk management literature.
Sustainable green tea production through agroecological management and land conversion practices for restoring soil health, crop productivity and economic efficiency: Evidence from Northern Vietnam
Authors: Le Viet San , Herrmann Laetitia , Bräu Lambert , Lesueur Didier
Published: January 2023

Tea is a very important cash crop in Vietnam as it provides crucial income and employment for farmers in poor rural areas. Unfortunately, the dominance of long‐term, conventional tea cultivation has caused severe soil health degradation and environmental pollution. At the same time, as tea production may provide a better net income compared with other annual crops such as rice and vegetables, farmers have been converting parts of their allocated land to cultivate tea plants. Little is known about the benefit of agroecological management as an alternative to conventional tea management practices, and thus, there is a need to understand how it can improve tea yields, quality and the livelihoods of the farmers. Conducted in Northern Vietnam from 2019 to 2022, this study examined the impacts of agroecological tea management practices on soil health indicators, tea yield and quality, and net income of tea farmers. We showed that agroecological management practices significantly enhanced soil organic matter by 0.8% and soil pH by 0.5 units on average. Conversely, conventional management based on chemical fertilizer applications, significantly increased soil total nitrogen by 0.15%–0.2%. No significant differences were observed between soil texture and other soil chemical characteristics. Soil biological parameters were also significantly higher in agroecological tea soil and root samples than in conventional tea plots. Average AMF frequency and intensity of the agroecological tea roots were 98% and 37%, respectively, compared with 73% and 15% of the conventional tea roots. Likewise, soil macrofauna and mesofauna abundance in the agroecological tea plantations was 76 individuals/m2and 101 individuals/100 g fresh soil on average, respectively, while that of conventional tea farms were 34 and 63 individuals/100 g fresh soil, respectively. Interestingly, a comparison between the converted and nonconverted lands did not show any significant effect of the conversion on soil physicochemical and biological characteristics, apart from tea root AMF colonization. Conventional tea management consistently resulted in higher tea yield and yield components, even though the differences were not always statistically significant. Despite lower tea yields, agroecological tea adopters earned around USD 8400 ha/year more than the farmers still practicing conventional management. This study shows that it is economically and environmentally more sustainable to produce organic tea than conventional tea, and our results should encourage more farmers to adopt such agroecological practices in Northern Vietnam.
How special are special economic zones: Evidence from South Asia
Authors: Aggarwal Aradhna
Published: January 2023

This study applies quasi‐experimental designs to assess how successful the special economic zones (SEZs) have been in offering a better investment climate than what is available to firms outside of them in three South Asian countries: India, Bangladesh and Pakistan. The World Bank Enterprise Surveys' data for 2013–2014 on multiple investment climate factors have been organised into 48 onsite and offsite investment climate variables for the assessment. The study is the first to provide causal evidence based on the matching and weighting methods. The key argument is that what sets SEZs apart from other economic zones is their ability to overcome growth impeding institutions. The results however show that the SEZs could not be insulated from the wider institutional contexts in which they are embedded. There are gaps between promises and implementation on the one hand and perceived and actual improvement on the other. The paper has important implications for policymakers who seem to be in a rush to set up SEZs as a development panacea.
Postattenuation neurologic signs after surgical correction of congenital portosystemic shunts in cats: A narrative review
Authors: Mullins Ronan A. , Serrano Creheut Tomas
Published: January 2023

Development of postattenuation neurological signs (PANS) is a potentially severe complication after surgical attenuation of congenital portosystemic shunts in cats. This review summarizes findings of 15 publications that report occurrence of PANS in cats. PANS includes seizures but also milder neurologic signs such as blindness, ataxia, abnormal behavior, tremors, and twitching. Incidence of PANS and specifically postattenuation seizures in studies including a minimum of five cats ranges from 14.3% to 62.0% and 0% to 32.0%, respectively. Etiology of PANS in cats is unknown, however, several hypotheses have been proposed including central nervous system disease/derangement, perioperative hypoglycemia and electrolyte disturbances, and postoperative portal hypertension. A number of possible risk factors have been identified including lower grades of intraoperative postocclusion mesenteric portovenography and osmolality at 24 h postoperatively. Evidence for use of prophylactic antiepileptics such as levetiracetam to prevent or reduce incidence of PANS in cats is limited and does not support their use. Because the cause is unknown, treatment is aimed at controlling neurologic signs, preventing progression to more severe signs, and providing general supportive care. Prospective studies comparing the efficacy of different antiepileptics for treatment of PANS in cats are required. Prognosis for recovery is variable and dependent on severity of neurologic signs. For cats surviving to discharge, long‐term survival is possible but persistence or recurrence of neurologic signs in the long‐term is not uncommon.
Equidistribution of Hodge loci II
Authors: Tayou Salim , Tholozan Nicolas
Published: January 2023

Let $\mathbb {V}$ be a polarized variation of Hodge structure over a smooth complex quasi-projective variety $S$. In this paper, we give a complete description of the typical Hodge locus for such variations. We prove that it is either empty or equidistributed with respect to a natural differential form, the pull–push form. In particular, it is always analytically dense when the pull–push form does not vanish. When the weight is two, the Hodge numbers are $(q,p,q)$ and the dimension of $S$ is least $rq$, we prove that the typical locus where the Picard rank is at least $r$ is equidistributed in $S$ with respect to the volume form $c_q^r$, where $c_q$ is the $q$th Chern form of the Hodge bundle. We obtain also several equidistribution results of the typical locus in Shimura varieties: a criterion for the density of the typical Hodge loci of a variety in $\mathcal {A}_g$, equidistribution of certain families of CM points and equidistribution of Hecke translates of curves and surfaces in $\mathcal {A}_g$. These results are proved in the much broader context of dynamics on homogeneous spaces of Lie groups which are of independent interest. The pull–push form appears in this greater generality, we provide several tools to determine it, and we compute it in many examples.
Pressure Signal-Based Analysis of Anomalies in Switching Behavior of a Two-Way Directional Control Valve
Authors: Prakash Jatin , Singh Shruti , Miglani Ankur , Kankar P. K.
Published: January 2023

Solenoid operated direction control valves, responsible for regulating the flow of fluid in hydraulic circuit highly relies on the control current for their actuation. The control currents supplied to the solenoid generate the electromagnetic force required for switching of valves by mechanical movement of spools inside. The deterioration in control current leads to the degradation in electromagnetic force and thus the spool takes longer to initiate as well as terminate the switching phenomenon. This delay or lag potentially causes the pressure, flow and power fluctuation, and unintended impacts on the system. This article presents a comparative analysis of detecting these anomalies by acquiring pressure signals across the valve using extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) and one-dimensional convolution neural network (CNN). Four handcrafted statistical features and four fractal dimensions train XGBoost whereas 1D CNN with six hidden layers utilizes the raw signal of net pressure change across the valve. XGBoost predicts the switching behavior at an accuracy of 99.68%, and 1D CNN performs at its maximum possible accuracy (100%). The very narrow gap signifies the nearly equal significance of both of these different category classifiers. As XGBoost cannot handle the raw signals, the pre-processing increases the time consumption while 1D CNN does not require deep architecture and efficiently maps the complexity of the hydraulic system using pressure signals.
Effect of Powder Characteristics on Relative Density and Porosity Formation During Electron Beam Selective Melting of Al2024 Aluminum Alloy
Authors: Kenevisi Mohammad Saleh , Lin Feng
Published: January 2023

Defects, such as pores and cracks, can be found in parts fabricated by powder-bed additive manufacturing techniques. The origin of certain defects, such as some voids, can be linked to initial powder quality, which makes it an important factor in the process. Powders used in additive manufacturing processes are produced by different methods such as gas atomization (GA), plasma atomization (PA), and plasma rotating electrode process (PREP); each gives different powder quality. In this study, two different Al2024 powders, produced by electrode induction GA and PREP techniques, were used to investigate the effect of powder characteristics on defect formation during electron beam melting process (EBM). Powders were first characterized by using Hall flowmeter funnel and scanning electron microscope (SEM); then, the EBM process was carried out, and finally, samples were examined by density measurement using Archimedes method, SEM analysis, and tensile test. PREP powder showed higher levels of sphericity and surface smoothness without attached satellites. Consequently, a higher apparent density and decreased flowing time were achieved in PREP powder. Moreover, gas-induced internal pores were observed in GA particles. The results also revealed the average relative density of 96.7% and 99.4% for the parts built by GA and PREP powders, respectively. SEM micrographs confirmed the results of density measurement of the fabricated parts and showed higher degrees of both spherical and irregular-shaped pores in samples built by GA powder. Additionally, they showed deprived mechanical properties due to the higher porosity contents which can form stress-concentrated areas.
Viscous dissipation in large amplitude oscillatory shear of unsaturated wet granular matter
Authors: Awdi Ahmad , Chateau Camille , Chevoir Franc̨ois , Roux Jean-Noël , Fall Abdoulaye
Published: January 2023

The present work investigates nonlinear behavior in large amplitude oscillatory shear (LAOS) of unsaturated wet granular materials using pressure-imposed rheometric measurements that enable to explore how the material properties characterizing the flow response depend on both strain amplitude and frequency of deformation. Away from the quasistatic limit, we show that the energy dissipated per unit volume in a single LAOS cycle, which can be visualized by the area enclosed by the Lissajous curve of stress versus strain, is an increasing function of the viscosity of the wetting liquid and is also influenced by the reduced pressure (comparing the cohesive to confining forces) and the frequency. Introducing the inertial number I and the viscous number Iv as previously done, it is shown that the influence of surface tension, viscosity, and driving frequency can be captured by plotting the dissipated energy per unit volume versus the viscous number: a good collapse is obtained. It is shown that an increase in liquid content shifts the whole curve of the dissipated energy upwards, indicating that the overall dissipation mechanism does not change with liquid content, only the energy dissipation related to the internal structure and its breakdown changes.
The Effect of Unilateral Versus Bilateral Strength Training on Isometric-Squat Peak Force and Interlimb Asymmetry in Young, Recreationally Strength-Trained Men
Authors: Lynch Arthur E. , Davies Robert W. , Allardyce Joanna M. , Carson Brian P.
Published: January 2023

Purpose: To compare the effects of bilateral strength training (BLST) versus unilateral strength training (ULST) on changes in peak force (PF) and interlimb asymmetry (ILA) in the isometric squat at a 120° knee angle (ISq120). Method: A total of 31 young, recreationally strength-trained men performed either BLST (n = 18) or ULST (n = 13), twice per week for 6 weeks. The total number of repetitions, duty cycle, and effort were standardized between training groups (ie, differing only in the exercises performed). Changes in PF and ILA were assessed pretraining and posttraining. Results: Comparable increases in PF were observed in the BLST group (mean [SD] change; 17.4% [20.5%], P = .001, standardized mean difference [SMD] = 0.45) and the ULST group (11.4% [19.1%], P = .042, SMD = 0.25). No significant changes in symmetry index (SI) scores were observed following BLST (mean [SD] change; 0 [5.7], P = .526, SMD = −0.12) or ULST (+3 [6.0], P = .702, SMD = 0.4). Individual analyses of subjects with marked ILA (ie, baseline SI score > baseline coefficient of variation) revealed a trend toward BLST being more effective at attenuating SI scores in the ISq120. Conclusions: Overall, both BLST and ULST are effective for increasing ISq120 PF. However, it appears that BLST may be more effective at reducing SI scores in those with marked ILA.
Ancient DNA elucidates the lost world of western Indian Ocean giant tortoises and reveals a new extinct species from Madagascar
Authors: Kehlmaier Christian , Graciá Eva , Ali Jason R. , Campbell Patrick D. , Chapman Sandra D. , Deepak V. , Ihlow Flora , Jalil Nour-Eddine , Pierre-Huyet Laure , Samonds Karen E. , Vences Miguel , Fritz Uwe
Published: January 2023

Before humans arrived, giant tortoises occurred on many western Indian Ocean islands. We combined ancient DNA, phylogenetic, ancestral range, and molecular clock analyses with radiocarbon and paleogeographic evidence to decipher their diversity and biogeography. Using a mitogenomic time tree, we propose that the ancestor of the extinct Mascarene tortoises spread from Africa in the Eocene to now-sunken islands northeast of Madagascar. From these islands, the Mascarenes were repeatedly colonized. Another out-of-Africa dispersal (latest Eocene/Oligocene) produced on Madagascar giant, large, and small tortoise species. Two giant and one large species disappeared c. 1000 to 600 years ago, the latter described here as new to science using nuclear and mitochondrial DNA. From Madagascar, the Granitic Seychelles were colonized (Early Pliocene) and from there, repeatedly Aldabra (Late Pleistocene). The Granitic Seychelles populations were eradicated and later reintroduced from Aldabra. Our results underline that integrating ancient DNA data into a multi-evidence framework substantially enhances the knowledge of the past diversity of island faunas.
Strong and tough fibrous hydrogels reinforced by multiscale hierarchical structures with multimechanisms
Authors: Guo Xiao , Dong Xinyu , Zou Guijin , Gao Huajian , Zhai Wei
Published: January 2023

Tough natural materials such as nacre, bone, and silk exhibit multiscale hierarchical structures where distinct toughening mechanisms occur at each level of the hierarchy, ranging from molecular uncoiling to microscale fibrillar sliding to macroscale crack deflection. An open question is whether and how the multiscale design motifs of natural materials can be translated to the development of next-generation biomimetic hydrogels. To address this challenge, we fabricate strong and tough hydrogel with architected multiscale hierarchical structures using a freeze-casting–assisted solution substitution strategy. The underlying multiscale multimechanisms are attributed to the gel’s hierarchical structures, including microscale anisotropic honeycomb–structured fiber walls and matrix, with a modulus of 8.96 and 0.73 MPa, respectively; hydrogen bond–enhanced fibers with nanocrystalline domains; and cross-linked strong polyvinyl alcohol chains with chain-connecting ionic bonds. This study establishes a blueprint of structure-performance mechanisms in tough hierarchically structured hydrogels and can inspire advanced design strategies for other promising hierarchical materials.
Neuromorphic functions with a polyelectrolyte-confined fluidic memristor
Authors: Xiong Tianyi , Li Changwei , He Xiulan , Xie Boyang , Zong Jianwei , Jiang Yanan , Ma Wenjie , Wu Fei , Fei Junjie , Yu Ping , Mao Lanqun
Published: January 2023

Reproducing ion channel–based neural functions with artificial fluidic systems has long been an aspirational goal for both neuromorphic computing and biomedical applications. In this study, neuromorphic functions were successfully accomplished with a polyelectrolyte-confined fluidic memristor (PFM), in which confined polyelectrolyte–ion interactions contributed to hysteretic ion transport, resulting in ion memory effects. Various electric pulse patterns were emulated by PFM with ultralow energy consumption. The fluidic property of PFM enabled the mimicking of chemical-regulated electric pulses. More importantly, chemical-electric signal transduction was implemented with a single PFM. With its structural similarity to ion channels, PFM is versatile and easily interfaces with biological systems, paving a way to building neuromorphic devices with advanced functions by introducing rich chemical designs.
Draft Genome Sequences of Three Pseudomonas chengduensis Strains Isolated from Desert Soil in Morocco
Authors: Zouagui Houda , Chemao-Elfihri M. W. , Manni Amina , Laamarti Meryem , Kartti Souad , Alouane Tarek , Lahlou Lamiaa , Benhrif Oussama , Temsamani Loubna , Eljamali Jamal-Eddine , Filali-Maltouf Abdelkarim , Ibrahimi Azeddine , Sbabou Laila
Published: January 2023

We report the draft genome sequences of three
Pseudomonas chengduensis
strains isolated from the sand dunes of the Merzouga (MDMC17 strain) and Erg Lihoudi (MDMC216 and MDMC224 strains) regions in the Moroccan desert. These bacteria are able to tolerate the harsh environmental conditions of the desert ecosystem.
Five-Hour Detection of Intestinal Colonization with Extended-Spectrum-β-Lactamase-Producing
Enterobacteriaceae
Using the β-Lacta Phenotypic Test: the BLESSED Study
Authors: Gallah Salah , Scherer Maximilien , Collin Thierry , Gomart Camille , Veziris Nicolas , Benzerara Yahia , Garnier Marc
Published: January 2023

To both improve the efficiency of contact isolation among ESBL-PE carriers and avoid the unnecessary isolation of noncolonized patients, we should reduce the turnaround time of ESBL screening in laboratories and improve the sensitivity of diagnostic methods. The development of rapid and low-cost methods that satisfy these two goals is a promising approach.
Paraneoplastic leukemoid syndrome in squamous cell carcinoma of the forearm
Authors: Das Snehasis , Shaikh Oseen Hajilal , Prakash Sagar , Gopal Balasubramanian
Published: January 2023

The paraneoplastic leukemoid reaction is a rare haematological paraneoplastic syndrome, which is typically seen with solid tumours and squamous cell carcinomas. As an indication of bone marrow infiltration and malignancy involvement, it indicates a poor outcome and a grave prognosis. We report a woman in her 50s, who presented with an ulcer over the right forearm. Biopsy revealed squamous cell carcinoma. The patient underwent radiological investigations, which showed the presence of metastatic squamous cell carcinoma. Incidentally, the patient was found to have leucocytosis, which was attributed to a paraneoplastic leukemoid reaction, after ruling out all other causes of leukemoid reaction. Due to metastatic disease, the patient was planned for palliative radiotherapy and the best supportive care.
Efficacy of 48 hours dose of phenytoin in prevention of early post-traumatic seizure
Authors: Oyemolade Toyin Ayofe , Adeolu Augustine A , Badejo Oluwakemi A , Balogun James A , Shokunbi Matthew T , Malomo Adefolarin O , Adeleye Amos O
Published: January 2023

Background

Antiseizure medications, such as phenytoin sodium, have been shown in some reports to reduce the incidence of early post-traumatic seizure. These medications, however, are not without side effects which may be dose related or duration related. The risks associated with short-term therapy are minimal and often dose related (and hence avoidable). This study intends to determine the efficacy of a short-course (48-hour dose) of phenytoin in prevention of early post-traumatic seizure

Methods

This was a prospective randomised double-blind clinical intervention study. Head injured patients presenting within the first 24 hours were randomly assigned to either 48-hour dose of phenytoin or control groups, and were observed for clinical seizure over a week. The difference in the incidences of early post-traumatic seizure between the two groups was determined by χ2test. A p<0.05 was considered as statistically significant.

Results

A total of 94 patients were included in the study, 47 each in the control group and the phenytoin group. There were 77 males and 17 female (M:F 4.5:1). Both groups had similar demographic and clinical profile. The incidence of seizure was 21.3% in the control but 2.1% in the treatment arm (p<0.01). All seizures occurred within 24 hours of trauma in the control, while the only episode of seizure in the treatment group occurred later.

Conclusion

A short-course (48-hour dose) of phenytoin might be an effective prophylactic treatment to reduce the incidence of early post-traumatic seizure.