bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trajectory Classification Method for Anchored Molecular Motor-Biopolymer Interactions in the C. elegans first Mitosis
Authors: Linehan John , Edwards Alan , Boudreau Vincent , Maddox Paul
Published: September 2022

During zygotic mitosis, forces generated at the cell cortex are required for the separation and migration of paternally provided centrosomes, pronuclear migration, proper segregation of genetic material, and successful cell division. Identification of individual cortical force generating unitsin vivois necessary to study the regulation of microtubule dependent force generation throughout the cell cycle, to further understanding of asymmetric cell division, and to identify the molecular mechanism of force generation. Here we present a method to determine both the location and relative number of microtubule dependent cortical force generating units using single molecule imaging of fluorescently labelled dynein. Dynein behavior is modeled to differentiate and categorize trajectories that correspond to that which is cortically bound and interacting with a microtubule, and is cortically bound and not interacting with a microtubule. The categorization strategy recapitulates well known force asymmetries in the first mitosis of the C. elegans embryo. To evaluate the robustness of categorization, we RNAi depleted the microtubule subunit TBA-2 resulting in reduction of the number of trajectories categorized as engaged with a microtubule. This technique will be a valuable tool to provide new insight to the molecular mechanisms of dynein cortical force generation and its regulation as well as other instances wherein anchored motors interact with biopolymers (eg. Actin, tubulin, DNA).
TOPSIS analysis for sustainable redevelopment potential of abandoned infrastructure in Nigeria
Authors: Ogunnusi Mercy , Salman Huda , Laing Richard
Published: September 2022

Purpose

Abandonment poses a range of effects detrimental to the development of a country such as Nigeria. Restoring such infrastructure in a sustainable manner is a challenge identified in the literature. The aim of this study is to evaluate a novel approach – the technique for order preference by similarity to an ideal solution (TOPSIS) to identify the sustainability criteria for the redevelopment of abandoned infrastructure in Nigeria. The literature evidences use of TOPSIS in various development contexts, but not in the context of redevelopment of abandoned infrastructure.

Design/methodology/approach

This study explores the potential of TOPSIS in the sustainable redevelopment of abandoned infrastructure in Nigeria through a combination of a quantitative method of data collection – questionnaire – and a case study. The case study focuses on the abandoned Federal Government Secretariat in Lagos. One hundred and sixty-one (161) participants responded to the questionnaire. Data collected were analyzed using TOPSIS analytical technique.

Findings

Refurbishment is considered as the most sustainable alternative for the redevelopment of abandoned infrastructure. For criteria consideration, structural integrity and foundation categorized under the technological attributes ranked highest for refurbishment and conversion alternatives. Waste generation and prevention and profitability top the list for demolition and procurement respectively.

Social implications

The social benefit of this study is to bring building considered to be an eyesore back into use.

Originality/value

The findings from the analysis orchestrates the importance of the built environment research concentrating on innovative frameworks for sustainable redevelopment of abandoned structures in the construction industry.
Walking the managerial tightrope: top management involvement in product innovation projects
Authors: Felekoglu Burcu , Durmusoglu Serdar S. , Maier Anja M. , Moultrie James
Published: September 2022

Purpose

This study examines how technical drivers as well as social drivers influence organic communication and top management involvement (TMI) in new product development (NPD) projects. Technical drivers are of strategic importance and product innovativeness and social drivers are of intrinsic and extrinsic relevance. Organic communication is defined as continuous, bidirectional and informal communication between top management and the NPD teams. Further, arguing that TMI must be studied as a multifaceted construct, it is conceptualized to occur as guidance, active motivation and providing resources and creating a tolerant climate. Subsequently, the effect of TMI and organic communication on NPD performance is investigated.

Design/methodology/approach

The data set, collected via surveys from top managers and project managers involved in 86 NPD projects in 85 firms, is analyzed using PLS structural equation modeling.

Findings

The authors show that the strategic importance of the project has a positive influence on TMI through active motivation, providing resources and creating a tolerant climate for innovation, but does not have an effect on guidance. Results also show that active motivation and organic communication improve budget and schedule adherence, whereas providing guidance and stimulating a tolerant climate have detrimental effects. In summary, the results show that only active motivation enhances all types of performance while stimulating a tolerant climate appears to have the opposite effect. The results revealed that organic communication between top management and the NPD team has a strong positive effect on all elements of TMI (providing guidance, actively motivating the NPD team, providing resources and creating a tolerant climate). In other words, when top management communicates with the NPD team throughout the project in an informal way and listens to them in addition to engaging in a one-way communication, they are more likely to be seen by the team as being deeply involved in the project.

Practical implications

Executives must walk a managerial tightrope to actively motivate and to assist in providing resources, yet they must not be overbearing with direct guidance and must limit their tolerance for failures.

Originality/value

Involvement of key organizational actors such as top management and the link to project performance has attracted significant attention in research. However, nuanced empirical insights into the dyad of top management and project teams has so far been absent. The study’s findings detail the effect of technical and social drivers of top management involvement in new product development projects. Most notably, (1) the effect of motivation and stimulating a tolerant climate on performance, and (2) the effect of organic communication on top management involvement. Moreover, this study is unique in that it empirically examines TMI from both top management and team perspectives.
Tracing the density of human being: through a Levinasian anthropology of invisible otherness
Authors: Rapport Nigel
Published: September 2022

For Emmanuel Levinas, to study human nature is to ‘liberate human beings from the categories adapted uniquely for things’. This, paradoxically, is to occupy a standpoint where the human ‘no longer offers itself to our powers’: to go beyond the category‐thinking of cultural construction and to put what one consciously supposes – Self, Society, Culture, Nature – into question. The ‘liberation’ of human nature is an unconscious process that does not have the structure of intentionality but rather the character of inspiration. Examining the possible accommodation of a Levinasian philosophy within anthropology, this article pays particular attention to the human ‘density of being’ that, for Levinas, accompanies any individual life. It is impossible for Ego to know the Other, Levinas insists – subjectivity is ‘secret’, identity is ‘invisible’ – but otherness can nevertheless ‘inspire’ recognition and respect through its physical proximity. The article argues that a ‘cosmopolitan’ anthropology devoted to discerning the nature of a universal humanity might practise an artistry sufficient to identify the outline of that invisibility: the silhouette even if not the substance. Here are the traces of otherness that are evident, willy‐nilly, when the densities of being of individual human lives impact upon one another in social milieux.
Cochlear Neurotrophin‐3 overexpression at mid‐life prevents age‐related inner hair cell synaptopathy and slows age‐related hearing loss
Authors: Cassinotti Luis R. , Ji Lingchao , Borges Beatriz C. , Cass Nathan D. , Desai Aditi S. , Kohrman David C. , Liberman M. Charles , Corfas Gabriel
Published: September 2022

Age‐related hearing loss (ARHL) is the most prevalent sensory deficit in the elderly. This progressive pathology often has psychological and medical comorbidities, including social isolation, depression, and cognitive decline. Despite ARHL's enormous societal and economic impact, no therapies to prevent or slow its progression exist. Loss of synapses between inner hair cells (IHCs) and spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs), a.k.a. IHC synaptopathy, is an early event in cochlear aging, preceding neuronal and hair cell loss. To determine if age‐related IHC synaptopathy can be prevented, and if this impacts the time‐course of ARHL, we tested the effects of cochlear overexpression of neurotrophin‐3 (Ntf3) starting at middle age. We chose Ntf3 because this neurotrophin regulates the formation of IHC‐SGN synapses in the neonatal period. We now show that triggering Ntf3 overexpression by IHC supporting cells starting in middle age rapidly increases the amplitude of sound‐evoked neural potentials compared with age‐matched controls, indicating that Ntf3 produces a positive effect on cochlear function when the pathology is minimal. Furthermore, near the end of their lifespan, Ntf3‐overexpressing mice have milder ARHL, with larger sound‐evoked potentials along the ascending auditory pathway and reduced IHC synaptopathy compared with age‐matched controls. Our results also provide evidence that an age‐related decrease in cochlear Ntf3 expression contributes to ARHL and that Ntf3 supplementation could serve as a therapeutic for this prevalent disorder. Furthermore, these findings suggest that factors that regulate synaptogenesis during development could prevent age‐related synaptopathy in the brain, a process involved in several central nervous system degenerative disorders.
The emergent role of mitochondrial surveillance in cellular health
Authors: Tjahjono Elissa , Kirienko Daniel R. , Kirienko Natalia V.
Published: September 2022

Mitochondrial dysfunction is one of the primary causatives for many pathologies, including neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, metabolic disorders, and aging. Decline in mitochondrial functions leads to the loss of proteostasis, accumulation of ROS, and mitochondrial DNA damage, which further exacerbates mitochondrial deterioration in a vicious cycle. Surveillance mechanisms, in which mitochondrial functions are closely monitored for any sign of perturbations, exist to anticipate possible havoc within these multifunctional organelles with primitive origin. Various indicators of unhealthy mitochondria, including halted protein import, dissipated membrane potential, and increased loads of oxidative damage, are on the top of the lists for close monitoring. Recent research also indicates a possibility of reductive stress being monitored as part of a mitochondrial surveillance program. Upon detection of mitochondrial stress, multiple mitochondrial stress‐responsive pathways are activated to promote the transcription of numerous nuclear genes to ameliorate mitochondrial damage and restore compromised cellular functions. Co‐expression occurs through functionalization of transcription factors, allowing their binding to promoter elements to initiate transcription of target genes. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the intricacy of mitochondrial surveillance programs and highlights their roles in our cellular life. Ultimately, a better understanding of these surveillance mechanisms is expected to improve healthspan.
Evidence of cancer progression as the cause of death in men with prostate cancer in Sweden
Authors: Orrason Andri Wilberg , Styrke Johan , Garmo Hans , Stattin Pär
Published: September 2022

Objective

To assess the strength of the evidence indicative of prostate cancer (PCa) progression as the adjudicated cause of death, according to age at death and PCa risk category.

Patients and Methods

Using data from the Prostate Cancer data Base Sweden, we identified a study frame of 5543 men with PCa registered as the cause of death according to the Cause of Death Register. We assessed the evidence of PCa progression through a review of healthcare records for a stratified sample of 495/5543. We extracted data on prostate‐specific antigen levels, presence of metastases on imaging, and PCa treatments, and quantified the evidence of disease progression using a points system.

Results

Both no evidence and moderate evidence for PCa progression was more common in men aged >85 years at death than those aged <85 years (29% vs 14%). Among the latter, the proportion with no evidence or moderate evidence for PCa progression was 21% for low‐risk, 14% for intermediate‐risk, 8% for high‐risk, and 0% for metastatic PCa. In contrast, in men aged >85 years, there was little difference in the proportion with no evidence or moderate evidence of PCa progression between PCa risk categories; 31% for low‐risk, 29% for intermediate‐risk, 29% for high‐risk, and 21% for metastatic PCa. Of the 5543 men who died from PCa, 13% (95% confidence interval 5–19%) were estimated to have either no evidence or moderate evidence of PCa progression.

Conclusions

Weak evidence for PCa progression as cause of death was more common in older men with PCa and in those with low‐risk PCa. This has implications for interpretation of mortality statistics especially when assessing screening and early treatment of PCa because the beneficial effect of earlier diagnosis could be masked by erroneous adjudication of PCa as cause of death in older men, particular those with localised disease at diagnosis.
Concentration‐dependent effects of proinflammatory cytokines on barrier function and tight junction protein expression in brain microvascular endothelial cells and the hypothermic and hyperthermic effects on tight junction protein expression
Authors: Matsui Tomohiro , Mochiduki Yuji , Yoshida Yusuke , Nitta Takenori
Published: September 2022

Objective

The mechanisms underlying therapeutic hypothermia, which protects neurons following severe brain damage, are only partially understood. We previously demonstrated that hypothermia reduced, whereas hyperthermia augmented, the release of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α and interleukin (IL)‐17. Cerebral ischemia causes the loss of the blood–brain barrier (BBB) integrity, thereby increasing cerebral vascular permeability, which directly contributes to vasogenic edema, hemorrhagic transformation, and increased mortality. Brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMVECs) are a major component of BBB and tight junction proteins (TJPs) in these cells maintain the BBB integrity. In this study we determined the mechanisms underlying this treatment by measuring the effects of TNF‐α and IL‐17 on BMVEC barrier function and TJP expression in BMVECs, and by evaluating the effects of hypothermia and hyperthermia on TJP expression.

Methods

The barrier function of BMVECs was evaluated by measuring transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER). The expression of several TJPs, such as claudin‐5 and junctional adhesion molecule (JAM)‐B, was measured at the mRNA and protein levels using real‐time polymerase chain reaction and immunocytochemistry, respectively.

Results

TNF‐α and IL‐17 decreased TEER values, and TNF‐α decreased claudin‐5 and JAM‐B mRNA and protein levels, whereas IL‐17 decreased JAM‐B mRNA and protein levels, and all of these effects were concentration‐dependent. Compared with normothermia, claudin‐5 and JAM‐B proteins were not affected by hypothermia, whereas JAM‐B protein was reduced by hyperthermia.

Conclusion

The hypothermic suppression of TNF‐α and IL‐17 release may contribute to the maintenance of BBB function by ameliorating the decrease of TJP(s). In contrast, hyperthermia may decrease barrier function through a decrease in JAM‐B expression. However, the contribution of changes in the JAM‐B expression to the barrier function of BMVECs remains to be clarified.
Contact sensitizations in massage therapists with occupational contact dermatitis: Patch test data of the Information Network of Departments of Dermatology, 2008–2020
Authors: Brans Richard , Schröder‐Kraft Claudia , Bauer Andrea , Weisshaar Elke , Skudlik Christoph , Geier Johannes ,   for the IVDK
Published: September 2022

Background

Massage therapists are particularly exposed to constituents of massage preparations, wet work and mechanical strain and therefore, at high risk to develop occupational dermatitis (OD).

Objectives

To describe the sensitization spectrum of massage therapists with OD.

Patients and Methods

In a retrospective study, patch test data of patients with OD (128 massage therapists and 24 374 patients working in other professions) collected by the Network of Departments of Dermatology (IVDK, 2008–2020) were analysed.

Results

Hand dermatitis (91.4%) and allergic contact dermatitis (34.4%) were common in massage therapists with OD. Most frequent were sensitizations to fragrances/essential oils which were found in 54 (42.2%) massage therapists and thus, more often than in other patients with OD. Concomitant positivity to several fragrances/essential oils was frequent. In 8 (14.8%) of the 54 massage therapists, sensitizations to fragrances/essential oils were not detected with the baseline series, but only with special fragrance series.

Conclusions

Allergic contact dermatitis is common in massage therapists with OD and is mainly caused by fragrances and essential oils. Hence, massage therapists should be aware of this risk. When OD is suspected, not only the baseline series, but also special fragrance series should be patch tested in this occupational group.
Management of high and low risk malignant polyps: a population‐wide analysis
Authors: Zammit Andrew P. , Panahi Seyed E. , Brown Ian , Hooper John D. , Clark David A. , Riddell Andrew D.
Published: September 2022

Aim

The management of malignant polyps is a treatment dilemma in selecting between polypectomy and colorectal resection. To assist clinicians, guidelines have been developed by the Association of Coloproctology of Great Britain and Ireland (ACPGBI) to provide treatment recommendations.

Methods

This study compared management strategy based on the ACPGBI risk categorization for malignant polyps. Univariable and multivariable statistical analysis was undertaken to assess the factors predicting management strategy. A population‐wide analysis was performed of 1646 malignant polyps and the factors that predicted their management strategy, from Queensland, Australia, from 2011 to 2019.

Results

Overall, 31.55% of patients with very low or low risk disease proceeded to resection. Of those with high or very high risk disease, 36.69% did not proceed to resection. In very low and low risk polyps, age (P = 0.003) and polyp location (P < 0.001) were significantly different between the colorectal resection group and the polypectomy alone group. In those with very high or high risk polyps age (P < 0.001), type of facility (public or private) for the colonoscopy (P = 0.037), right colonic polyps compared to left colonic polyps (P = 0.015) and rectal polyps (P < 0.001) and mismatch repair mutations present (P = 0.027) were predictive of resection in high risk disease using a multivariable model.

Conclusion

Over 30% of patients with very low and low risk malignant polyps proceeded to resection, against the advice of guidelines. Furthermore, over 35% of patients with very high or high risk malignant polyps did not proceed to resection. Education strategies may improve management decision choices. Furthermore, improvements in data collation will improve the understanding of management choices in the future.
Savor the flavor: A randomized double‐blind study assessing taste‐enhanced placebo analgesia in healthy volunteers
Authors: Zunhammer Matthias , Goltz Gerrit , Schweifel Maximilian , Stuck Boris A. , Bingel Ulrike
Published: September 2022

Placebo effects substantially contribute to analgesic treatment outcomes and might be leveraged to enhance gold‐standard treatments. The taste of oral medications has been proposed to boost placebo effects. Here, we aimed at estimating how far the taste of an oral medication enhances placebo analgesia. We conducted a randomized, double‐blind, between‐group, single‐visit study, with pre‐treatment baseline. Over the course of three substudies, 318 healthy volunteers (297 included) were tested in a clinical trial setting. Participants were subjected to experimental tonic cold water pain (cold pressor test) before and after receiving taste‐neutral (water), or bitter (quinine), or sweet (saccharin), or no placebo drops. Pre‐ versus post‐treatment changes in area under the pain rating curve, the main outcome, indicated that placebo treatment showed a small analgesic effect versus no treatment. Added taste induced placebo enhancement in the very small effect size range, but accounted for a substantial portion of the overall placebo effect. No noteworthy advantage of sweet over bitter placebo was observed. An exploration of heart rate (HR) recordings indicated that placebo treatments were associated with an increase in peak HR‐response to cold water, but these were not associated with placebo analgesia at an individual level. Placebo treatments were associated with minimal side effects. These results indicate that added taste may be an easy‐to‐implement, cost‐effective, and safe way to optimize treatment outcomes and that taste‐neutral preparations may reduce placebo‐related outcome variance in clinical trials. Further studies are needed to test if these findings can be translated into clinical scenarios.
Lipidomics of cyclophosphamide 4‐hydroxylation in patients receiving post‐transplant cyclophosphamide
Authors: Navarro Sandi L. , Zheng Zihan , Randolph Timothy W. , Nakamura Ryotaro , Sandmaier Brenda M. , Hockenbery David , McCune Jeannine S.
Published: September 2022

Biomarker‐guided dosing may improve the efficacy and toxicity of cyclophosphamide (CY); however, clinical studies evaluating their association with the area under the plasma concentration–time curve (AUC) of CY and its metabolites are time‐ and resource‐intensive. Therefore, we sought to identify lipidomic biomarkers associated with the time‐varying differences in CY formation clearance to 4‐hydroxycyclophosphamide (4HCY), the principal precursor to CY's cytotoxic metabolite. Hematopoietic cell transplant (HCT) patients receiving post‐transplant CY (PT‐CY) were enrolled, cohort 1 (n = 25) and cohort 2 (n = 26) donating longitudinal blood samples before they started HCT (pre‐HCT), before infusion of the donor allograft (pre‐graft), before the first dose of PT‐CY (pre‐CY) and 24 h after the first dose of PT‐CY (24‐h post‐CY) which is also immediately before the second dose of CY. A total of 409 and 387 lipids were quantitated in the two cohorts, respectively. Associations between lipids, individually and at a class level, and the ratio of 4HCY/CY AUC (i.e., 4HCY formation clearance) were evaluated using linear regression with a false discovery rate <0.05. There were no individual lipids that passed control for false discovery at any time point. These results demonstrate the feasibility of lipidomics, but future studies in larger samples with multiple omic tools are warranted to optimize CY dosing in HCT.
Population pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic modeling of the psychedelic experience induced by N,N‐dimethyltryptamine – Implications for dose considerations
Authors: Eckernäs Emma , Timmermann Christopher , Carhart‐Harris Robin , Röshammar Daniel , Ashton Michael
Published: September 2022

N,N‐dimethyltryptamine (DMT) is a psychedelic compound that is believed to have potential as a therapeutic option in several psychiatric disorders. The number of clinical investigations with DMT is increasing. However, very little is known about the pharmacokinetic properties of DMT as well as any relationship between its exposure and effects. This study aimed to characterize population pharmacokinetics of DMT as well as the relationship between DMT plasma concentrations and its psychedelic effects as measured through subjective intensity ratings. Data were obtained from 13 healthy subjects after intravenous administration of DMT. The data were analyzed using nonlinear mixed‐effects modeling in NONMEM. DMT plasma concentrations were described by a two‐compartment model with first‐order elimination leading to formation of the major metabolite indole 3‐acetic acid. The relationship between plasma concentrations and psychedelic intensity was described by an effect site compartment model with a sigmoid maximum effect (Emax) response. DMT clearance was estimated at 26 L/min, a high value indicating elimination of DMT to be independent of blood flow. Higher concentrations of DMT were associated with a more intense experience with the concentration of DMT at the effect site required to produce half of the maximum response estimated at 95 nM. The maximum achievable intensity rating was 10 and the simulated median maximum rating was zero, 2, 4, 8, and 9 after doses of 1, 4, 7, 14, and 20 mg, respectively. The model can be useful in predicting suitable doses for clinical investigations of DMT based on the desired intensity of the subjective experience.
Nutrition‐sensitive lockdowns: Conceptual framework and empirical insights from Africa during COVID‐19
Authors: Daum Thomas , Biesalski Hans Konrad , Blaschke Nikola , Bosch Christine , Güttler Denise , Heni Jakob , Kariuki Juliet , Katusiime Roseline , Seidel Anna , Senon Zinsou‐Narcisse , Woode George , Birner Regina
Published: September 2022

Motivation

Countries facing challenges of nutrition security confront a trade‐off when dealing with pandemics such as COVID‐19. Implementing lockdown measures, widely used worldwide, can help “flatten the curve” (of disease), but such measures may worsen nutrition security.

Purpose

We aim to identify and justify nutrition‐sensitive lockdown measures to reduce trade‐offs with nutrition security.

Methods and approach

We propose a conceptual framework which distinguishes eight lockdown measures and six pathways to nutrition security. To demonstrate the relevance of the pathways, we reviewed emerging literature on COVID‐19 and nutrition security. We analysed the content of 1188 newspaper articles on lockdown effects in five African countries: Benin, Ghana, Kenya, Uganda and Zambia.

Findings

Some lockdown measures, such as closing workplaces and restricting movement, potentially worsen nutrition far more than others. Banning events and public gatherings have far less impact on nutrition. This can be seen from the framework, the academic literature, and is supported by the analysis of newspaper reports in the five countries.

Policy implications

It is better, when possible, to test and trace disease than to lock down. But when lockdowns are needed, the first recourse should be to measures that have few nutritional consequences, such as banning public events. When more drastic measures are necessary, nutritional harm should be mitigated by, for example, exempting farm labour from restrictions on movement, by replacing school meals with take‐home rations, and, above all, providing income support to the most affected and most vulnerable households.
The diagnosis and management of suspected lymphoma in general practice
Authors: Paquin Ashley R. , Oyogoa Emmanuella , McMurry Hannah Stowe , Kartika Thomas , West Malinda , Shatzel Joseph J.
Published: September 2022

With rapid advancements in diagnosis and treatment of malignancies, the gap between generalists and subspecialists continues to widen, particularly in cancers like lymphoma where the spectrum of disease varies from indolent to rapidly progressive. Prior to establishing with a hematologist/oncologist, patients must be accurately and comprehensively diagnosed and managed for lymphoma in the generalist setting. In the following manuscript, we review the common clinical presentations in which should raise concern for lymphoma. We summarize the literature regarding the role of laboratory studies including complete blood count and peripheral blood flow cytometry, the recommendations for lymph node sampling, the role and selection of imaging modalities, and ideal patient monitoring for high‐risk clinical syndromes that may be encountered in lymphoma.
Mitigating grain growth in fully stabilized zirconia via a two‐step sintering strategy for esthetic dental restorations
Authors: Kim Boo Kyung , Yun Jong Hyuk , Jung Wook Ki , Lim Chek Hai , Zhang Yu , Kim Do Kyung
Published: September 2022

Overall, 8‐mol% yttria‐stabilized zirconia (8YSZ), unlike 3YSZ, is optically transparent and stable against low‐temperature degradation but has insufficient mechanical properties due to its large grain size. The influence of the grain size of 8YSZ on mechanical properties was investigated to develop an 8YSZ suitable for dental restoration. Modulation of the grain size and relative density was achieved via a two‐step sintering (TSS) process, and the corresponding kinetic window was established. The conditions of TSS employed herein yielded a relative density of more than 99% while maintaining a small grain size of 0.75 µm. On the other hand, the highest biaxial strength and the highest total transmittance attained were 833 MPa and 34.6% (1‐mm‐ thick, 39.1% for a 0.5‐mm thick sample) in the TSS 8YSZ with a grain size of 1.25 µm. These results suggest that strength has improved only when grain size reduction and increased relative density are achieved at the same time. The results demonstrate that the ceramic processing method has a significant effect on the mechanical and optical properties of 8YSZ needed for dental restoration and provide a new insight that contrasts previous studies focused on the starting material.
Functionality of pasta enriched with pumpkin seed meal: cooking quality, techno‐functional properties, textural and structural characterisation
Authors: Raina Simran , Gupta Antima , Singh Arashdeep , Surasani Vijay Kumar Reddy , Sharma Savita
Published: September 2022

The present investigation focuses on developing and evaluating the impact of pumpkin seed meal (PSM) supplementation at 0%, 3%, 6%, 9%, 12%, and 15.0% levels on the quality attributes of pasta. Results showed that the increase in level of PSM significantly (P < 0.05) influenced the functional properties of pasta blend, cooking profile, antioxidant potential, textural, and structural characteristics of the enriched pasta. With an increased PSM level, cooking time reduced significantly (P < 0.05) from 5.25 to 4.38 min; however, cooking loss increased from 5.23% to 11.70%. The addition of PSM resulted in a concomitant increase in the protein (11.46 to 20.91 g 100 g−1) content of pasta which in turn increased the pasta firmness (0.19 to 0.38 N) and lightness (L*). Total phenolic content, flavonoid content, and antioxidant potential of the pasta increased significantly (P < 0.05). Pasta enriched with 9.0% of PSM exhibited the highest overall acceptability score. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy confirmed the presence of bioactive compounds and protein in the pasta. Scanning electron microscopy confirmed modifications in the structural and morphological characteristics of PSM‐based pasta.
Do shadow economy, institutional regulatory framework, government stability, and corruption affect non‐performing banking loans in emerging market economies: A dynamic common correlated effect (DCCE) approach
Authors: Syed Aamir Aijaz , Kamal Muhammad Abdul , Ullah Assad
Published: September 2022

The banking sector of the emerging economies is continuously confronted with the puzzle of non‐performing loans (NPLs). To solve this puzzle, researchers have investigated various determinants of non‐performing loans; however, the issue persists. The current study explores the impact of the shadow economy, institutional regulatory framework, government stability, and corruption on NPLs among emerging economies from the period 2000–2017. We have employed a novel dynamic common correlated effect (DCCE) model to estimate the long‐term relationship, which produces reliable estimates in the presence of cross‐sectional dependence (CSD). We found that the shadow economy, institutional regulatory framework, and government stability negatively influence NPLs, whereas corruption is positively associated with NPLs. It implies that a 1 per cent increase in the shadow economy, institutional regulatory framework, and government stability reduces NPLs by 0.06 per cent, 0.81 per cent, and 1.87 per cent in emerging countries. The study also highlights that ignoring the issue of CSD in panel data provides unreliable estimates. It is an original work and provides reliable estimates in understanding the implication of shadow economy, institutional regulation, and corruption on NPLs among emerging countries. Besides, the findings of our study also offer several policy implications.
Effect of network connectivity on behavior of synthetic Broborg hillfort glasses
Authors: Marcial José , Cicconi Maria Rita , Pearce Carolyn I. , Kloužek Jaroslav , Neeway James J. , Pokorný Richard , Vernerová Miroslava , McCloy John S. , Nienhuis Emily T. , Sjöblom Rolf , Weaver Jamie L. , Hand Russell J. , Hrma Pavel , Neuville Daniel R. , Kruger Albert A.
Published: September 2022

There is wide industrial interest in developing robust models of long‐term (>100 years) glass durability. Archeological glass analogs, glasses of similar composition, and alteration conditions to those being tested for durability can be used to evaluate and inform such models. Two such analog glasses from a 1500‐year‐old vitrified hillfort near Uppsala, Sweden have previously been identified as potential analogs for low concentration Fe‐bearing aluminosilicate nuclear waste glasses. However, open questions remain regarding the melting environment from which these historic glasses were formed and the effect of these conditions on their chemical durability. A key factor to answering the previous melting and durability questions is the redox state of Fe in the starting and final materials. Past work has shown that the melting conditions of a glass‐forming melt may influence the redox ratio value (Fe+3/∑Fe), a measure of a glass's redox state, and both melting conditions and the redox ratio may influence the glass alteration behavior. Synthetic analogs of the hillfort glasses have been produced using either fully oxidized or reduced Fe precursors to address this question.

In this study, the melting behavior, glass transition temperature, oxidation state, network structure, and chemical durability of these synthesized glass analogs is presented. Resulting data suggests that the degree of network connectivity as impacted by the oxidation state of iron impacted the behavior of the glass‐forming melt but in this case does not affect the chemical durability of the final glass. Glasses with a lower degree of melt connectivity were found to have a lower viscosity, resulting in a lower glass transition temperature and softening temperature, as well as in a lower temperature of foam onset and temperature of foam maximum. This lower degree of network connectivity most likely played a more significant role in accelerating the conversion of batch chemicals into glass than the presence of water vapor in the furnace's atmosphere. Future work will focus on using the results from this work with outcomes from other aspects of this project to evaluate long‐term glass alteration models.
Utilization of pomegranate peel extract as antifungal coating agent against Fusarium oxysporum on tomatoes
Authors: Saeed Muhammad , Azam Muhammad , Ahmad Tanveer , Akhtar Saeed , Hussain Majid , Nasir Saba , Ain Qurat Ul
Published: September 2022

The shelf life of tomato is limited due to its perishable nature. The fruit is highly susceptible to fungal attack such as Fusarium oxysporum. The edible coating has been used to enhance the postharvest life of different food products. The present study was designed for the development of edible antifungal coating on tomato fruit using pomegranate peel extract in combination with chitosan. Pomegranate peel extract was obtained from pomegranate peel using water distillation method. The antifungal coating was prepared with different concentrations of pomegranate peel extract (To, T1, T2, T3, T4, T5 for 0%, 0.5%, 1.0%, 1.5%, 2.0%, and 2.5%) respectively. Coated tomatoes were subjected to physicochemical, microbial, and sensory analysis during storage. The firmness and lycopene content were decreased during storage. However, the coated tomatoes have more firmness and lycopene content than uncoated tomatoes. Maximum weight loss was observed for To (6.22 ± 0.07%) after 21 days. Lycopene content of coated tomato were improved during storage as compare with uncoated samples. Maximum total plate count was observed for To (6.11 ± 0.07 CFU/g) and minimum was observed for T5 (2.11 ± 0.08 CFU/g). All the treatments were significantly effective to control total plate count and mold count in comparison with the control. The coating materials did not affect the sensory profile of tomatoes. Pomegranate peel extract was proved effective antimicrobial coating material for tomatoes. The study will pave way for the researchers to use coating material for fruits based on the fruit waste.

Practical applications

Fruit waste‐based edible coating can prevent postharvest losses in fruits and vegetables. Pomegranate peel extract and chitosan have shown potential to reduce postharvest losses in tomatoes. PPE‐based coating has antimicrobial activity against Fusarium oxysporum. The edible coating can help to reduce qualitative and safety issues in tomatoes during storage. It may be used as a replacement of synthetic preservatives in tomatoes.
Investigation on the effects of drying methods on the structure and antioxidant activity of Tremella fuciformis polysaccharides using asymmetrical flow field‐flow fractionation
Authors: Guo Yuxi , Sun Yushan , Chen Xue , Ye Hong , Dou Haiyang
Published: September 2022

Polysaccharide is an important bioactive component in Tremella fuciformis (T. fuciformis). In this study, the effects of three drying methods (i.e., vacuum freeze‐drying, microwave drying, and hot air drying) on the structure in terms of molecular weight (Mw) and radius of gyration, and conformation of T. fuciformis polysaccharide (TFP) were investigated by asymmetrical flow field‐flow fractionation coupled online with multiangle light scattering and differential refractive index detectors. The physicochemical properties of TFPs were studied by scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and differential scanning calorimetry. Furthermore, the structure‐antioxidation relationship of TFPs was investigated. Results revealed that three drying methods did not significantly affect functional groups, crystal structure, and thermal property of TFPs but led to some differences in the morphology and Mw of TFPs. The TFP obtained by microwave drying had the highest DPPH radical scavenging activity, which could be attributed to low Mw.

Novelty impact statement

The three drying methods (i.e., vacuum freeze‐drying, microwave drying, and hot air drying) studied in this work did not affect the functional groups and thermal properties of T. fuciformis polysaccharides (TFPs), but significantly affected the morphology of TFP granules and the Mw distribution of TFP molecules. TFP‐M had the smallest Mw (1.36 ± 0.10 × 107 g/mol), which could be beneficial to its DPPH radical scavenging activity.
Effects of State‐Dependent Forward Guidance, Large‐Scale Asset Purchases, and Fiscal Stimulus in a Low‐Interest‐Rate Environment
Authors: COENEN GÜNTER , MONTES‐GALDÓN CARLOS , SMETS FRANK
Published: September 2022

We study the incidence and severity of periods with a binding effective lower bound on nominal interest rates and the efficacy of three types of state‐dependent policies—forward guidance about the path of future interest rates, large‐scale asset purchases, and spending‐based fiscal stimulus—in mitigating the detrimental consequences of the lower bound for macro‐economic stability. Based on the ECB's New Area‐Wide Model of the euro area, our findings suggest that, if left unaddressed, the lower bound can cause substantial macro‐economic distortions. In the near term, forward guidance, if fully credible, is most powerful and can largely undo these distortions. A combination of imperfectly credible forward guidance, asset purchases, and fiscal stimulus is almost equally effective, especially when asset purchases enhance the credibility of the forward‐guidance policy via a signaling effect. In the long run, with an equilibrium real rate as low as zero, a combination of all three policies is needed to materially reduce the distortions.
Systematic review, meta‐analysis and meta‐regression to determine the effects of patient education on health behaviour change in adults diagnosed with coronary heart disease
Authors: Shi Wendan , Ghisi Gabriela L. M. , Zhang Ling , Hyun Karice , Pakosh Maureen , Gallagher Robyn
Published: September 2022

Aims and Objectives

To assess the effectiveness of educational interventions and the relative effect of intervention duration on secondary prevention health behaviours in adults with coronary heart disease.

Background

Patient education can reduce disease progression and improve outcomes. However, there is a lack of knowledge of its efficacy and the relative impact of education duration on health behaviour change in this population.

Design

A systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Methods

Seven electronic databases and grey literature were searched from Inception to July 2021. The review followed the PRISMA guidelines. This meta‐analysis was analysed in Comprehensive Meta‐Analysis version 3 software. Outcomes considered were disease knowledge and health behavioural outcomes. Data were pooled together with random‐effects models using the inverse‐variance method. The effect of education duration (<3 vs. ≥3 months) was examined by meta‐regressions.

Results

In summary, 73 studies were included with a total of participants (n = 24,985) aged mean of 60.5 ± 5.7 years and mostly male (72.5%). Patient education improved all behaviours including disease knowledge at <6 and 6–12 months follow‐up, the likelihood of quitting smoking at <6, and 6–12 months, medication adherence at <6 and 6–12 months; physical activity and exercise participation at <6 and 6–12 months and healthy dietary behaviours, at <6 and 6–12 months. Furthermore, education programmes with a longer duration (≥3 months) improved disease knowledge and physical activity more than shorter programmes.

Conclusion

Patient education for secondary prevention, in various delivery modes and intensities, improves multiple self‐reported health behaviours in patients with coronary heart disease.

Relevance to clinical practice

This study assessed the effectiveness of secondary prevention education and demonstrated improvements in all outcomes in this population. Longer duration programmes were more effective in improving disease knowledge and physical activity in the long term. These findings can assist the cardiac programmes’ design, particularly in ensuring sufficient intervention duration.
A dynamic view on work‐related perfectionism: Antecedents at work and implications for employee well‐being
Authors: Mohr Monique , Venz Laura , Sonnentag Sabine
Published: September 2022

Little is known about the role of perfectionism in employees' daily work. Our study aimed to provide a fine‐grained view on perfectionism in work life by examining daily work‐related perfectionism in terms of perfectionistic strivings and concerns. Drawing on whole trait theory and the principle of trait activation, we investigated experienced time pressure and criticism at work as antecedents of daily work‐related perfectionism and in turn its implications for vigour and negative affect. In the course of two working weeks, 72 employees completed surveys three times per day, resulting in a total of 461 days of data. Multilevel path modelling showed that daily time pressure was positively related to both perfectionistic strivings and concerns, and that criticism was positively related to perfectionistic concerns. Daily work‐related perfectionistic strivings were positively indirectly related to vigour at bedtime via vigour at the end of the workday. Daily work‐related perfectionistic concerns were positively indirectly related to bedtime negative affect via end‐of‐workday negative affect. Our study shows that employees' daily experiences at work relate to within‐person fluctuations in work‐related perfectionism, which in turn matter for well‐being both at work and at home. We conclude that a dynamic view broadens the understanding of perfectionism at work.
In vitro assessment of probiotic properties of Pseudomonas entomophilaCOFCAU_PEP4 isolated from Labeo rohita intestine
Authors: Khan Md. Idrish R. , Choudhury Tanmoy G. , Kamilya Dibyendu
Published: September 2022

Assessment of beneficial properties by in vitro approaches forms the basis of selection of a potential probiotic. Moreover, bacterial strains of autochthonous origin are considered more useful than strains from allochthonous sources. In this study, a bacterial strain Pseudomonas entomophila COFCAU_PEP4, isolated from the intestine of Indian major carp rohu (Labeo rohita), was evaluated for its probiotic potential using a range of in vitro tests, along with safety assessment. The strain showed antagonistic activity against 12 pathogenic indicator bacteria and tolerance to a wide range of pH (2–9) and bile salt concentrations (up to 10%). The strain also demonstrated significant in vitro adhesion properties, including mucosal adherence, auto‐aggregation capacity, and bacterial cell surface hydrophobicity. Besides being non‐hemolytic, the strain COFCAU_PEP4 was able to produce extracellular enzymes and showed free radical scavenging potential. An experimental challenge study revealed the strain COFCAU_PEP4 as safe for L. rohita. Taken together, the in vitro and safety assessments demonstrated the probiotic potential of the strain P. entomophila COFCAU_PEP4 isolated from an autochthonous source.
Multiple paternity in the Asp viper
Authors: Nanni Geser S. , Ursenbacher S.
Published: September 2022

Many male reptiles maximize their reproductive success by mating with multiple females. This behaviour has often been observed in female reptiles as well, although one mating would usually be sufficient to fertilize the available female eggs. Using 13 microsatellite markers, multiple paternity (MP) was confirmed for the first time in the asp viper (Vipera aspis) in 47% of the tested clutches, with only up to two different fathers. Phenotypic characteristics (length, weight) of the mother did not influence the number of sires, and the number of young did not differ between litters with one or two sires. Males that sired offspring were larger than males that did not successfully reproduce. Excluding an exceptionally long‐distance movement (2464 m), the distance between fathers and mothers was limited (127 m ± 162). Although males exhibit notable combat behaviour during the breeding season, there was no sexual size dimorphism in the study population.