bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influencia del género en el diagnóstico de enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica (póster)
Authors: Gómez Cortés Sandra , Mateu Riu Merlí , Daniel Diez Jordi , Breva Griñó Cristina , Capdevila Martínez Mariona , Constant Blasco Pere
Published: October 2023

OBJETIVOS
La enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica (EPOC) presenta un elevado infradiagnóstico. Estudiarla con perspectiva de género es clave, ya que en algunos países las mujeres tienen mayor prevalencia y mortalidad. El objetivo de este estudio es describir si hay diferencias según sexo en el diagnóstico de EPOC.

MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS
Estudio descriptivo en población mayor de 35 años, atendida por nueve médicos de familia (MF) de un centro de Atención Primaria (CAP). Se examina, según género, si presentan diagnóstico de fumador, EPOC y espirometría realizada. Información extraída mediante Dbsform, aplicación de búsqueda de variables del sistema de información de Atención Primaria de una comunidad autónoma, con posterior análisis estadístico.

RESULTADOS
Se analizó una población total de 14.951 personas de nuestro CAP y se identificaron 9.492 personas mayores de 40 años (50,03% hombres y 49,96% mujeres). La prevalencia de registro de fumadores en la población era 15,9% en hombres y 14,07% en mujeres, siendo mayores de 35 años el 18,9% de los hombres y el 16,4% de las mujeres (17,6% del total). En cuanto a la prevalencia de registro de EPOC en mayores de 40 años, se halló un 3,2% en hombres y un 1,6% en mujeres, un 2,41% del total de la población analizada.

CONCLUSIONES
El registro del diagnóstico de EPOC varía en función del sexo, detectando más EPOC en hombres que en mujeres. La prevalencia del registro de EPOC es muy baja en comparación con la prevalencia esperada según el estudio EPISCAN: 11,8%. La prevalencia del registro de fumadores es mayor en hombres que en mujeres. Existe un mayor infradiagnóstico en mujeres, igual que en estudio EPISCAN (70,04% hombres y 80,06% mujeres). No hay diferencias entre sexos en la búsqueda de EPOC por el médico de familia apreciando igual solicitud de espirometrías indicadas.

CEI
22/116-PCV.
Proyecto CRIVALVIR: contribución de la Atención Primaria a la eliminación del virus de inmunodeficiencia humana y las hepatitis víricas mediante el cribado oportunista en Valencia (España) (póster)
Authors: Ortega González Enrique , Diago Madrid Moisés , Esteban Reboll M.ª Amparo , Fornos Garrigós Antonio , García Deltoro Miguel , Ocete Mochón M.ª Dolores
Published: October 2023

OBJETIVOS
Es necesario avanzar en las prácticas de cribado y vinculación a la atención para controlar eficazmente la epidemia de virus de inmunodeficiencia humana (VIH) y hepatitis víricas en España, a fin de movernos hacia los objetivos de eliminación de la Organización Mundial de la Salud (OMS) y ONUSIDA (Programa Conjunto de las Naciones Unidas sobre el VIH/Sida) para 2030.

MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS
Implementamos el cribado oportunista del VIH, el virus de hepatitis B (VHB) y el virus de hepatitis C (VHC) en 26 centros de Atención Primaria (CAP) desde febrero de 2019 hasta marzo de 2022 (38 meses), utilizando la infraestructura y el personal existentes, con la ayuda de modificaciones en el sistema de registro electrónico de salud para identificar la elegibilidad para el cribado y solicitar serologías automáticamente. Fueron elegibles los pacientes de entre 18 y 80 años, previo consentimiento verbal, si no tenían serologías de estos virus registradas en el año anterior y requerían análisis de sangre por algún motivo. Se hizo un seguimiento independientemente de los resultados de las pruebas. El personal del hospital se puso en contacto con los pacientes positivos para garantizar su vinculación a la atención sanitaria.

RESULTADOS
Se examinaron a 59.907 pacientes y se presentaron los resultados obtenidos por protocolo CIRVALVIR-FOCUS en 31.955 personas mayores de 18 años. Se detectó una seroprevalencia del VIH del 0,17%, una seroprevalencia del VHB del 0,44%, una seroprevalencia de anticuerpos del VHC del 1,64% y una prevalencia del ácido ribonucleico (ARN) del VHC del 0,35%. Vinculamos al 95% de los pacientes a la atención sanitaria tras el diagnóstico.

CONCLUSIONES
Nuestro proyecto multiplicó por tres el número total de pacientes sometidos a pruebas de detección de virus de transmisión sanguínea en comparación con el período equivalente anterior, y mejoró el diagnóstico precoz del VIH, con un descenso de las tasas de presentación tardía del 51,5% al 33,3%. Actualmente, estamos haciendo un análisis de rentabilidad para demostrar que los métodos oportunistas de detección de virus transmitidos por la sangre en Atención Primaria son factibles y eficaces.

CEI
Comité Ético de Investigación con Medicamentos del Consorcio Hospital General Universitario de Valencia.
Práticas corporais e comportamento sedentário de crianças: um estudo na escola municipal reverendo Eudóxio, em Mineiros-GO
Authors: Rodrigues Ana Letícia Gomes , De Oliveira Evandro Salvador Alves
Published: October 2023

Este artigo é fruto de um projeto de iniciação científica realizado no âmbito do curso de Educação Física do Centro Universitário de Mineiros e busca aprofundar os estudos acerca da temática que envolve possíveis inter-relações entre práticas corporais e comportamento sedentário de crianças da Educação Infantil. O objetivo é verificar os tipos de brincadeiras que as crianças de uma escola de Educação infantil realizam na contemporaneidade, analisando as possíveis relações dessas como comportamento sedentário na infância. A respeito do percurso metodológico, realizou-se entrevistas semiestruturadas com 10 professoras da Educação Infantil de uma unidade municipal, além de um estado da arte para a construção da revisão bibliográfica. Os resultados apontam que foram selecionados 113 trabalhos correspondentes a área das ciências humanas que versam sobre o assunto. As entrevistas revelaram que as brincadeiras praticadas pelas professoras em suas infâncias são bastante diferentes das crianças de atualidade. Além disso, os dados informam que os meninos e meninas não têm muito interesse por atividades que envolvem movimentos corporais na escola. Como conclusões, verifica-se que assuntos referentes às crianças, uso de tela, corpo, brincadeiras e comportamento sedentário têm sido, cada vez mais, alvo de discussões na área da Educação Física. A partir da ótica das professoras da Educação Infantil, na contemporaneidade as crianças demonstram ter preferência por videogames, joguinhos online, vídeos do Youtube e outros elementos da cultura digital. Esses recursos, que possibilitam passaporte para o universo digital, contribuem, de alguma maneira, para outros modos de brincar na infância, consequentemente, para o crescimento do comportamento sedentário em crianças da mais tenra idade.
Investigation of Performance Properties of Milled Carbon Fiber Reinforced Hot Mix Asphalt
Authors: DURMAZ Ayşe Cansel , MOROVA Nihat
Published: October 2023

In this study, the mechanical behavior and resistance to moisture damage of hot mix asphalt (HMA) concrete with the addition of Milled Carbon Fiber (MCF) were experimentally investigated. For this purpose, the gradation curve within the boundaries of the Turkish highway construction specifications (HTS) has been determined. By keeping the determined gradation constant, MCF was added at different rates (1 %, 1.5 %, 2 %, 2.5 %, 3 %) by weight of the mixture. In the study, first, optimum bitumen ratios (OBR) of pure control samples (0 %-Control) without MCF and mixtures with MCF additives were determined by using the Marshall design method. To determine the OBR, samples were prepared with bitumen content of 3.5 %, 4 %, 4.5 %, 5 %, 5.5 %, and 6 % at each carbon additive ratio. The mixture samples prepared using the specified OBRs were subjected to Marshall stability (MS) and flow, as well as to retained Marshall stability (RMS), indirect tensile strength (ITS), and moisture damage resistance tests. According to the test results, it was observed that the MS values of the asphalt concrete with MCF additives increased at certain carbon additive ratios, while the flow values decreased compared to the witness sample. It was determined that the RMS and indirect tensile strength ratio (TSR) values of hot mixes with MCF-added bitumen increased and the moisture damage resistance of the mixes increased. As a result, when the optimum MCF ratio determined for the wearing course is used, it is thought that the engineering properties of HMA will improve.
The Earthworms: Charles Darwin’s Ecosystem Engineer
Authors: Kumar Rahul , Yadav Renu , Kumar Gupta Rajender , Yodha Kiran , Kumar Kataria Sudhir , Kadyan Pooja , Sharma Pooja , Kaur Simran
Published: October 2023

The term ecosystem engineering focuses on how organisms physically change the abiotic environment and how this feeds back to the biota. Charles Darwin was the first naturalist who studied the role of the earthworms and their ecosystem services. Darwin’s last publication on earthworms gave the role of earthworms in global bioturbation. Darwin also used the word ‘friend of farmer’ and ‘nature ploughman’ for the earthworm because of its important role in the soil ecosystem. In modern ecological theory, bioturbation is recognised as ‘ecosystem engineering’. They are called as ecosystem engineers due to their different ecosystem services which cause the physical, chemical and biological changes in the soil. This review highlights the different ecological services provided by the earthworms that make them ecosystem engineers as said earlier by Darwin.
Pregnancy Complications and Their Relationship with Neonatal Complications in Mothers Referring to Healthcare Centers in South East of Iran
Authors: Jamalzehi Atena , Eslahi Hadi , Mortazavi Zinat , Khammari Zohreh
Published: October 2023

Background: Some adverse pregnancy outcomes are rooted in the gestation period and can influence the mother, newborn, or both. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of pregnancy complications and their relationship with neonatal complications in mothers referring to the healthcare centers in Zahedan, Iran. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 630 women referring to the health care centers in Zahedan selected using systematic random sampling. Demographic information and anthropometric indices were collected and recorded in gestational and neonatal care forms. The data were analyzed in SPSS v. 22 using the chi-square test. Results: The results revealed that 18.9% of the mothers had anemia, 12.7% gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), 5.1% thyroid disorders, 4% hypertension, and 2.1% preeclampsia. Moreover, 14.1%, 41.1%, and 22.7% of the mothers were underweight, overweight, and obese, respectively. A significant relationship existed between the infant's birth weight and the mother's body mass index, hypertension, GDM, and maternal iron deficiency anemia (P < 0.05). Infant jaundice was also significantly related to GDM and preeclampsia (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Identifying problems threatening the health of mothers and newborns and paying more attention to nutritional health care during pregnancy are efficient strategies for preventing and controlling pregnancy-related neonatal complications and the health of mothers and newborns. Specific attention to prevention programs, strengthening health care policies during pregnancy, and promoting prenatal care and self-care are major health priorities.
Which Percutaneous Lumbar Disc Decompression Technique is more suitable? Comparing Laser, Radiofrequency, and Quantum Techniques
Authors: Entezary Saeid-Reza , Mohseni Masood
Published: October 2023

: Percutaneous lumbar disc decompression (PLDD) has emerged as an effective and minimally invasive treatment option for lumbar disc herniation. This review aims to provide pain specialists with a comparative overview of Iran’s commonly utilized PLDD techniques: Laser, radiofrequency (RF), and quantum PLDD. The review discusses patient selection criteria, procedural characteristics, and outcomes to facilitate informed clinical decision-making.
The Act of Diminishing the RTRAF Expression in Benign Thyroid Tissues Represents a Potential Method for Impeding the Progression of Malignancy in Cells
Authors: Esfandiarpoor Ghazal , Javadirad Seyed-Morteza , Kolahduzan Mohsen
Published: October 2023

Background: Thyroid cancer is the most common endocrine cancer, and women are almost three times more likely to develop it than men. Objectives: The etiology of thyroid cancer at the genetic level remains elusive. However, a potential involvement of the RNA Transcription, Translation, and Transport Factor (RTRAF) gene in the pathogenesis of this malignancy has been postulated. This gene has been shown to govern the expression of proteins that exert regulatory effects on the transition from the G1 to S phase of the cell cycle. Methods: For this study, 22 papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) tissues and 22 healthy tissues were collected. Additionally, 10 benign goiter tissues and 10 healthy tissues were gathered. RNA molecules were fixed, and complementary DNA (cDNA) was produced. Specific primers were used to measure the RTRAF gene expression. Statistical analysis was conducted using REST 2009 software. Results: Upon assessing the quality and quantity of RNA, it was ascertained that the extracted RNA molecules exhibited minimal damage and were found to be appropriately concentrated for cDNA production. The amplification of the RTRAF gene was carried out accurately, as evidenced by the melting curve. A noteworthy decline in the RTRAF gene expression was detected in the benign goiter tissue compared to the adjacent healthy tissue, with a relative expression of 0.154 and a statistical value of P = 0.002. Conversely, there was no significant difference in the RTRAF gene expression between PTC and the adjacent healthy tissue, with a P-value of 0.808. Conclusions: The reduced RTRAF gene expression in benign thyroid tumors may hinder cancer cell growth, as no difference was observed between malignant PTC tumor tissues and their healthy tissues.
Plalangan Nutrition Center: Pusat Pemberdayaan Kader dalam Mengolah Makanan Bergizi Tinggi berbasis Potensi Lokal untuk Mengatasi Malnutrisi Ibu Hamil
Authors: Oktaviana Adelia Dewi , Junanda Angela Irena , Anardi Bunga Camila Aunfantya , Nabilah Putri , Ramadhan Ibadillah Hilmi Dzulfikar , Yunanto Rismawan Adi
Published: October 2023

Melimpahnya hasil pertanian yang menjadi sumber pangan lokal Plalangan ternyata berbanding terbalik dengan masalah kesehatan yang muncul. Ibu hamil di Plalangan yang memiliki resiko KEK dan mengalami KEK pesebanyak > 25% dari jumlah total yakni 148 ibu hamil. Tujuan: program pengabdian ini adalah memberdayakan kader yang menjadi mitra kami sekaligus perpanjangan tangan tenaga kesehatan untuk dapat berdaya mengolah sumber pangan lokal menjadi makanan bergizi tinggi yang pada akhirnya akan diberikan, diedukasikan, dilatihkan, dan disampaikan kepada ibu hamil dengan KEK di Plalangan. Desain yang ditawarkan oleh Tim Pengabdian kepada mitra adalah desain pemberdayaan kelompok masyarakat yang terdiri dari beberapa prosedur kerja. Pelaksanaan kegiatan ini dilakukan selama 2 bulan pada bulan Juli - Oktober tahun 2023 mulai dari tahap persiapan, pelaksanaan, dan desiminasi akhir. Lokasi pelaksanaan program ini adalah di Desa Plalangan Kecamatan Kalisat Kabupaten Jember. Sasaran yang dilibatkan dalam program ini adalah kader di 11 posyandu. Program Plalangan Nutrition Center berhasil melatih kader kesehatan dan ibu beresiko dengan peningkatan pengetahuan, sikap, dan perilaku gizi yang meningkat signifikan (p<0,05). Hal ini juga dibuktikan dengan peningkatan berat badan yang terjadi pada ibu hamil beresiko KEK setiap bulannya. Plalangan Nutrition Center terbukti memberikan dampak perubahan yang signifikan terhadap pengetahuan, sikap, dan keterampilan gizi dari kader dan ibu hamil beresiko dengan pemanfaatan potensi lokal Plalangan.
Finite time extinction for a damped nonlinear Schrodinger equation in the whole space
Authors: Begout Pascal
Published: October 2023

We consider a nonlinear Schrodinger equation set in the whole space with a single power of interaction and an external source. We first establish existence and uniqueness of the solutions and then show, in low space dimension, that the solutions vanish at a finite time. Under a smallness hypothesis of the initial data and some suitable additional assumptions on the external source, we also show that we can choose the upper bound on which time the solutions vanish. For more information see https://ejde.math.txstate.edu/Volumes/2020/39/abstr.html
Klasyfikacja spektralna a skale pomiaru zmiennych
Authors: Walesiak Marek
Published: October 2023

In article the proposal of modification of spectral clustering method for nominal, ordinal, interval and ratio data, based on procedure of Ng, Jordan and Weiss [2002], is presented. In construction of affinity matrix we implement function Aik = exp(σ * dik ) (σ – scale parameter) with distance measures dik appropriate for different scales of measurement. This approach gives possibility of conversion nonmetric data (nominal, ordinal) into interval data. The proposed method of spectral clustering can be successfully used in all classification problems, including the measurement, analysis and visualization of preferences.
Remediating Students’ Misconception And Achievement In Chemistry Via Science Writing Heuristics And Peer Review Instructional Strategies In Delta State
Authors:   Department of Curriculum and Instruction, Delta State College of Education, Mosogar. Delta State, Nigeria, Ovie Adarighofua Faith
Published: October 2023

The study looked at remediating students’ students’ misconception and achievement in chemistry via science writing heuristics and peer review instructional strategies in Delta State using quasi-experimental design. The population comprised 18,879 Delta State’s public secondary schools. 328 SSII chemistry students were sampled for the study. 3 experts validated Two-Tier Chemistry Test (TTCT) with reliability values of 0.79 (for achievement) and 0.72 (for misconception) was used for data collection. The outcome of ANCOVA analysis indicated that students taught chemistry via science writing heuristics, peer review and lecture approach had significantly different mean misconception and achievement scores; in favor of science writing heuristics and peer review strategies. The study came to the conclusion that peer review and science writing heuristics are useful instructional strategies for remediating students’ misconceptions, and improving students’ achievement in chemistry. The adoption of science writing heuristics and peer review strategies by chemistry teachers in teaching chemistry was recommended
Learning Behavior of UG & PG Students of University College of Physical Education, Guru Kashi University Talwandi Sabo, Bhatinda (Punjab) During Lockdown Period
Authors:   Research Scholar, Department of Physical Education, Guru Kashi University, Talwandi Sabo-Punjab, India, Shanker Gauri
Published: October 2023

The main purpose of this study to examine the learning status of online classes of under graduate and post graduate student related to physical education department of Guru Kashi University Talwandi Sabo, Bhatinda (Punjab) during lockdown period. For this study an online survey was conducted to collect the data through Google form from 15 July 2021 to 25 July 2021. A self-structural questionnaire prepared in the Google form and sent to students through WhatsApp and E-mail. A total 230 students provide complete details. The percentage method was used to analysis the learning status of under graduate and post graduate students related to Physical Education courses during lockdown period. During the lock down period 80% students were actively participated in online learning or classes. Out of this percentage most students used mobile phone in online learning. Student facing many problems like stress, depression anxiety, poor internet facility, lack of study environment at home, lack of practical activity in physically manner. Students from rural area faced huge challenges during online classes. Finding of this study to create a positive space for online study of students related to physical education courses. Colleges and Universities make plan to develop an online education system for physical education related students.
Review of Urban Cultural Map Research Based on “Mapping”
Authors:   Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, China, Hua Yixiong , Qiu Song ,   Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, China
Published: October 2023

Urban cultural maps are important analytical tools that can guide urban design and planning from the perspective of information, provide services for urban cultural development, promote cultural planning and the construction of urban space, and reflect and promote the process of urban cultural progress in a dynamic way. Mapping is often used as a process tool for mapping, cognition, and analysis in geography or surveying and has recently been applied in architectural science. The field of architecture has given mapping a new definition and played a certain role in urban research and development. This article introduces the concepts of mapping and urban cultural maps, as well as the relationship between them. Through a review of theoretical research and relevant practices, it provides new perspectives and possibilities for urban development.
Az „újmédia” korszakának jogi sajátosságairól
Authors: Cservák Csaba
Published: October 2023

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Kitekintés a külképviseleti választások problémakörére
Authors: Kucsera Bettina
Published: October 2023

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Kivégzések nélkül Magyarországon – A halálbüntetés és az emberölések kapcsolata a hazai statisztikai adatok tükrében (1989-2017)
Authors: Tóth J. Zoltán
Published: October 2023

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Opponensi vélemény Techet Péter: Kísérletek a pozitivizmus kritikájára és meghaladására a német jogtudományban: a decizionista államelmélettől a közigazgatási állam koncepcióján át az intézményvédelemig című PhD-dolgozatáról
Authors: Karácsony András
Published: October 2023

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Szesztilalom – a közterületen történő szeszesital-fogyasztás tilalmának indokai és jogalkotási jellegzetességei
Authors: Balázsy Péter
Published: October 2023

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Az állam és az önkormányzat alapjogi jogalanyisága
Authors: Ujlaki Anikó
Published: October 2023

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The legal and regulative aspect of the free movement of capital towards the Capital Markets Union
Authors: Vértesy László
Published: October 2023

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A jogrendszer duplázódása
Authors: Pokol Béla
Published: October 2023

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A tetoválás tilalma a vallási jogrendszerekben
Authors: Heka László , Harkai István
Published: October 2023

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Commercial value and manifestation of personality rights in Hungary
Authors: Schultz Márton
Published: October 2023

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La genèse et la relation des différents instruments de la politique publique européenne de l’État de droit
Authors: Gát Ákos Bence
Published: October 2023

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Integrity of Administrative Law: Polish Perspective (ed. by Jan Zimmermann)
Authors: Csatlós Erzsébet
Published: October 2023

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A vallási diverzitás kialakulásának társadalmi és jogi háttere Magyarországon
Authors: Paizs Melinda Adrienn
Published: October 2023

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A német alapjogvédelem és alkotmánybíráskodás rendszeréről
Authors: Arató Balázs , Cservák Csaba
Published: October 2023

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Introduction to the New Hungarian Criminal Procedure (Part II)
Authors: Fantoly Zsanett , Budaházi Árpád
Published: October 2023

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El poder de la comunicación no verbal y su impacto en las relaciones interpersonales: un análisis con estudiantes universitarios
Authors:   Universidad Nacional de Trujillo, Pizarro Mostacero Maribel Sofía , Mendoza Alva Cecilia Eugenia ,   Universidad César Vallejo, Lora Loza Miryam Griselda ,   Universidad César Vallejo, Carruitero Avila Nancy Aida ,   Universidad César Vallejo, Moreno Torres Patricia del Pilar ,   Universidad César Vallejo, Leyva Aguiar Nolberto Arnildo ,   Universidad César Vallejo
Published: October 2023

La Comunicación No Verbal (CNV) es el lenguaje silencioso pero poderoso que transmite mensajes más allá de las palabras. Se refiere al conjunto de señales que emitimos y recibimos a través de nuestro cuerpo, nuestra voz y nuestro entorno, y que pueden complementar, contradecir o sustituir el mensaje verbal. La comunicación no verbal es un aspecto fundamental de las relaciones interpersonales, especialmente en el ámbito académico, donde influye en la forma en que nos percibimos y nos relacionamos con los demás. En este libro se presenta una investigación científica que analiza la influencia de la comunicación no verbal en las relaciones interpersonales de los estudiantes de lengua y literatura de una universidad nacional del norte del Perú en el año 2020. Se trata de un estudio de tipo no experimental, transversal, correlacional causal, que utiliza un diseño bivariado y un enfoque cuantitativo. Se aplica un cuestionario de comunicación no verbal y relaciones interpersonales a una muestra censal de 212 estudiantes de la escuela de Lengua y Literatura. El objetivo es analizar los niveles de comunicación no verbal y de relaciones interpersonales de los estudiantes, así como la relación entre ambas variables. Los resultados muestran que la mayoría de los estudiantes tienen un buen nivel de comunicación no verbal y de relaciones interpersonales, y que existe una correlación positiva entre ambas variables. Además, se estima que la comunicación no verbal explica el 17.3% de la variación en las relaciones interpersonales, mientras que el 82.7% restante se debe a otros factores. El libro concluye con una propuesta de talleres para mejorar las relaciones interpersonales mediante estrategias de manejo de la comunicación no verbal a nivel remoto. Este libro es una valiosa herramienta para conocer más sobre este tema tan importante para el desarrollo personal y profesional de los estudiantes de lengua y literatura.
Defining and Measuring Overall Performance In Emerging Countries: A Comprehensive Financial Perspective Review
Authors: El Fallahi Fadwa , Ibenrissoul Abdelmajid , El Amri Adil
Published: October 2023

In the ever-evolving business landscape post-COVID, companies face intense competitive pressure and must integrate performance and responsibility through sustainable practices. In this regards, financial performance alone is no longer sufficient to gauge success. Overall performance has become the primary objective for firms, especially in emerging economies, as it ensures holistic development and effective results. Embracing sustainability and measuring success across various dimensions are crucial for achieving long-term growth and resilience in the face of uncertainty. However, defining and measuring the multidisciplinary concept of “overall performance” remains extremely challenging and continues to be the subject of several academic controversies. The aim of this article is to delve deeply into the complex and multidimensional concept of overall business performance in emerging economies and aims to provide researchers, practitioners, and policymakers with a robust conceptual framework to define and measure overall performance in a changing economic landscape. In doing so, it contributes to shedding light on ongoing debates about evaluating business success in emerging economies while promoting a more integrated approach that considers both financial outcomes and social responsibility. Ultimately, this article aspires to stimulate deeper reflection on how businesses can thrive and positively impact society in a rapidly evolving world.
Social protection programmes in mitigating the socio-economic impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic: a comparative study of Ghana, Kenya, and South Africa
Authors: Nathaniel Awojobi Oladayo , Kwabia Eric , Adeniji Oluwatoyin
Published: October 2023

COVID-19 has become one of the most significant global health crises in history, with a wide range of socio-economic consequences due to the measures taken to stop the spread of the virus. The socio-economic implications of the quarantine caused by COVID-19 have affected all continents. The purpose of the article is to analyze the socio-economic consequences of the quarantine due to the COVID-19 pandemic in Ghana, Kenya and the Republic of South Africa, as well as to examine the critical social protection policy measures taken by the governments of these countries to reduce the vulnerability associated with pandemic prevention measures. This study used content analysis, which allows for the identification of recurring themes, ideas and terminology in the studied database. Directive documents on social protection programs during the pandemic, scientific publications, and reports of international institutions and organizations served as the source of primary information. Based on the content analysis results, 40 documents were selected that met the inclusion criteria: 14 works from Ghana, 13 from Kenya, and 14 from the Republic of South Africa. To investigate the effects of the lockdown caused by COVID-19, content analysis was chosen to identify recurring themes, ideas and terminology in qualitative data collection. A systematic review shows that lockdown measures implemented by the governments of Ghana, Kenya and the Republic of South Africa to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 have led to increased poverty and inequality, lost incomes, worsening food insecurity and increased unemployment. Content analysis found that the impact of COVID-19 differs significantly for men and women, with women experiencing more excellent destructive effects compared to men. The COVID-19 pandemic has harmed rural residents, with poverty rates rising at higher rates and their well-being declining compared to local residents. To respond to the socio-economic consequences of the quarantine due to COVID-19, the countries studied continued existing or introduced new social protection programs to support their citizens. These include cash transfers, food transfers, utility subsidies and fee waivers, community service programs, tax credits, and unemployment benefits. These welfare programs had different parameters consisting of benefits, rights and beneficiaries. Although this study cannot determine the impact of social programs, future studies will be able to assess their impact and effectiveness on beneficiaries.
Individual and Combined Effect of Eudragit® RS 100 and Eudragit® RL 100 on Sustained Release Characteristics of Ropinirole HCl-loaded Microparticles
Authors:   Hamdard Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hamdard University, Pakistan, Siddique Nabeel
Published: October 2023

Ropinirole HCl is a non-ergoline dopamine agonist which is recommended for the treatment of both Parkinson’s disease and Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS). Its half-life is about 6 hours and it is metabolized in the liver primarily by CYP1A2. Its metabolites are water-soluble and rapidly excreted from the body in urine. However, its oral bioavailability is low. Therefore, this current project aimed to produce and evaluate sustained release ropinirole microparticles coated with Eudragit® RS 100 and RL 100 by varying polymer types and concentrations. Ropinirole microparticles were prepared by oil in oil emulsion solvent evaporation technique. Emulsifier concentration was constantly set at 2% with a stirring speed of 500 pm. FTIR analysis of microparticles, drugs, and polymers was carried out. Analysis of compatibility, particle size, encapsulation effciency, yield, flow properties, and release profile were also performed. The optical microscope showed the spherical microparticles with better flow properties and encapsulation. Ropinirole FTIR analysis produced sharp characteristic bands of C=O stretching at 1699 cm-1, bending of CH3 at 1457 cm-1, C=C aromatic stretching at 1521 cm-1 and 1541 cm-1, and C-H aromatic bending at 765 cm-1. Eudragit® RS 100 and Eudragit® RL 100 showed a major peak with C=O stretching at 1716 cm-1. Within 8 hours, the drug release was in the range of 47.48-98.78%. Increasing the polymer concentration increased particle size, entrapment efficiency, and sustained drug release. Eudragit® RS 100 alone achieved a better sustained release than in combination with Eudragit® RL 100 or Eudragit® RL 100 alone.
RNA-binding deficient TDP-43 drives cognitive decline in a mouse model of TDP-43 proteinopathy
Authors: Necarsulmer Julie C , Simon Jeremy M , Evangelista Baggio A , Chen Youjun , Tian Xu , Nafees Sara , Marquez Ariana B , Jiang Huijun , Wang Ping , Ajit Deepa , Nikolova Viktoriya D , Harper Kathryn M , Ezzell J Ashley , Lin Feng-Chang , Beltran Adriana S , Moy Sheryl S , Cohen Todd J
Published: October 2023

TDP-43 proteinopathies including frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) are neurodegenerative disorders characterized by aggregation and mislocalization of the nucleic acid-binding protein TDP-43 and subsequent neuronal dysfunction. Here, we developed endogenous models of sporadic TDP-43 proteinopathy based on the principle that disease-associated TDP-43 acetylation at lysine 145 (K145) alters TDP-43 conformation, impairs RNA-binding capacity, and induces downstream mis-regulation of target genes. Expression of acetylation-mimic TDP-43K145Q resulted in stress-induced nuclear TDP-43 foci and loss of TDP-43 function in primary mouse and human-induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived cortical neurons. Mice harboring the TDP-43K145Q mutation recapitulated key hallmarks of FTLD, including progressive TDP-43 phosphorylation and insolubility, TDP-43 mis-localization, transcriptomic and splicing alterations, and cognitive dysfunction. Our study supports a model in which TDP-43 acetylation drives neuronal dysfunction and cognitive decline through aberrant splicing and transcription of critical genes that regulate synaptic plasticity and stress response signaling. The neurodegenerative cascade initiated by TDP-43 acetylation recapitulates many aspects of human FTLD and provides a new paradigm to further interrogate TDP-43 proteinopathies.
Systems analysis of miR-199a/b-5p and multiple miR-199a/b-5p targets during chondrogenesis
Authors: Patel Krutik , Barter Matt , Soul Jamie , Clark Peter , Proctor Carole , Clark Ian , Young David , Shanley Daryl P
Published: October 2023

Changes in chondrocyte gene expression can contribute to the development of osteoarthritis (OA), and so recognition of the regulative processes during chondrogenesis can lead to a better understanding of OA. microRNAs (miRNAs) are key regulators of gene expression in chondrocytes/OA, and we have used a combined experimental, bioinformatic, and systems biology approach to explore the multiple miRNA–mRNA interactions that regulate chondrogenesis. A longitudinal chondrogenesis bioinformatic analysis identified paralogues miR-199a-5p and miR-199b-5p as pro-chondrogenic regulators. Experimental work in human cells demonstrated alteration of miR-199a-5p or miR-199b-5p expression led to significant inverse modulation of key chondrogenic genes and extracellular matrix production. miR-199a/b-5p targets FZD6, ITGA3 and CAV1 were identified by inhibition experiments and verified as direct targets by luciferase assay. The experimental work was used to generate and parameterise a multi-miRNA 14-day chondrogenesis kinetic model to be used as a repository for the experimental work and as a resource for further investigation of this system. This is the first multi-miRNA model of a chondrogenesis-based system, and highlights the complex relationships between regulatory miRNAs, and their target mRNAs.
Differential susceptibility of male and female germ cells to glucocorticoid-mediated signaling
Authors: Cincotta Steven A , Richardson Nainoa , Foecke Mariko H , Laird Diana J
Published: October 2023

While physiologic stress has long been known to impair mammalian reproductive capacity through hormonal dysregulation, mounting evidence now suggests that stress experienced prior to or during gestation may also negatively impact the health of future offspring. Rodent models of gestational physiologic stress can induce neurologic and behavioral changes that persist for up to three generations, suggesting that stress signals can induce lasting epigenetic changes in the germline. Treatment with glucocorticoid stress hormones is sufficient to recapitulate the transgenerational changes seen in physiologic stress models. These hormones are known to bind and activate the glucocorticoid receptor (GR), a ligand-inducible transcription factor, thus implicating GR-mediated signaling as a potential contributor to the transgenerational inheritance of stress-induced phenotypes. Here, we demonstrate dynamic spatiotemporal regulation of GR expression in the mouse germline, showing expression in the fetal oocyte as well as the perinatal and adult spermatogonia. Functionally, we find that fetal oocytes are intrinsically buffered against changes in GR signaling, as neither genetic deletion of GR nor GR agonism with dexamethasone altered the transcriptional landscape or the progression of fetal oocytes through meiosis. In contrast, our studies revealed that the male germline is susceptible to glucocorticoid-mediated signaling, specifically by regulating RNA splicing within the spermatogonia, although this does not abrogate fertility. Together, our work suggests a sexually dimorphic function for GR in the germline, and represents an important step towards understanding the mechanisms by which stress can modulate the transmission of genetic information through the germline.
Trabid patient mutations impede the axonal trafficking of adenomatous polyposis coli to disrupt neurite growth
Authors: Frank Daniel , Bergamasco Maria , Mlodzianoski Michael J , Kueh Andrew , Tsui Ellen , Hall Cathrine , Kastrappis Georgios , Voss Anne Kathrin , McLean Catriona , Faux Maree , Rogers Kelly L , Tran Bang , Vincan Elizabeth , Komander David , Dewson Grant , Tran Hoanh
Published: October 2023

ZRANB1 (human Trabid) missense mutations have been identified in children diagnosed with a range of congenital disorders including reduced brain size, but how Trabid regulates neurodevelopment is not understood. We have characterized these patient mutations in cells and mice to identify a key role for Trabid in the regulation of neurite growth. One of the patient mutations flanked the catalytic cysteine of Trabid and its deubiquitylating (DUB) activity was abrogated. The second variant retained DUB activity, but failed to bind STRIPAK, a large multiprotein assembly implicated in cytoskeleton organization and neural development. Zranb1 knock-in mice harboring either of these patient mutations exhibited reduced neuronal and glial cell densities in the brain and a motor deficit consistent with fewer dopaminergic neurons and projections. Mechanistically, both DUB-impaired and STRIPAK-binding-deficient Trabid variants impeded the trafficking of adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) to microtubule plus-ends. Consequently, the formation of neuronal growth cones and the trajectory of neurite outgrowth from mutant midbrain progenitors were severely compromised. We propose that STRIPAK recruits Trabid to deubiquitylate APC, and that in cells with mutant Trabid, APC becomes hyperubiquitylated and mislocalized causing impaired organization of the cytoskeleton that underlie the neuronal and developmental phenotypes.
Trabid patient mutations impede the axonal trafficking of adenomatous polyposis coli to disrupt neurite growth
Authors: Frank Daniel , Bergamasco Maria , Mlodzianoski Michael , Kueh Andrew , Tsui Ellen , Hall Cathrine , Kastrappis Georgios , Voss Anne Kathrin , McLean Catriona , Faux Maree , Rogers Kelly , Tran Bang , Vincan Elizabeth , Komander David , Dewson Grant , Tran Hoanh
Published: October 2023

Trabid/ZRANB1
missense mutations have been identified in children diagnosed with a range of congenital disorders including reduced brain size, but how Trabid regulates neurodevelopment is not understood. We have characterised these patient mutations in cells and mice to identify a key role for Trabid in the regulation of neurite growth. One of the patient mutations flanked the catalytic cysteine of Trabid and its deubiquitylating (DUB) activity was abrogated. The second variant retained DUB activity, but failed to bind STRIPAK, a large multiprotein assembly implicated in cytoskeleton organisation and neural development.
Trabid/ZRANB1
knock-in mice harbouring either of these patient mutations exhibited reduced neuronal and glial cell densities in the brain and a motor deficit consistent with fewer dopaminergic neurons and projections. Mechanistically, both DUB-impaired and STRIPAK-binding-deficient Trabid variants impeded the trafficking of adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) to microtubule plus-ends. Consequently, the formation of neuronal growth cones and the trajectory of neurite outgrowth from mutant midbrain progenitors were severely compromised. We propose that STRIPAK recruits Trabid to deubiquitylate APC, and that in cells with mutant Trabid, APC becomes hyperubiquitylated and mislocalised causing impaired organisation of the cytoskeleton that underlie the neuronal and developmental phenotypes.
OptoPI3K, genetic code expansion, and click chemistry reveal mechanisms underlying reciprocal regulation between TRPV1 and PI3K
Authors: Koh Duk-Su , Stratiievska Anastasiia , Jana Subhashis , Otto Shauna C. , Swanson Teresa M. , Nhim Anthony , Carlson Sara , Raza Marium , Naves Lígia Araujo , Senning Eric N. , Mehl Ryan , Gordon Sharona E.
Published: October 2023

Receptor tyrosine kinase signaling is characterized by complex webs of interconnected pathways that regulate diverse cellular functions. The complexity of signaling is a barrier to understanding the pathways that control any particular function. In this work, we use a novel combination of approaches and a new click chemistry probe to determine the role of one pathway in regulating cell surface expression of an ion channel and a receptor tyrosine kinase. We applied an optogenetic approach to uncouple activation of the PI3K pathway from other pathways downstream of RTK activation. In this context, we used genetic code expansion to introduce a click chemistry noncanonical amino acid into the extracellular side of membrane proteins. Applying a cell-impermeant click chemistry fluorophore allowed us to visualize delivery of membrane proteins to the PM in real time. Using these approaches, we demonstrate that activation of PI3K, without activating other pathways downstream of RTK signaling, is sufficient to traffic the TRPV1 ion channels and insulin receptors to the plasma membrane.
Guanidine production by plant homoarginine-6-hydroxylases
Authors: Funck Dietmar , Sinn Malte , Forlani Giuseppe , Hartig Jörg S
Published: October 2023

Metabolism and biological functions of the nitrogen-rich compound guanidine have long been neglected. The discovery of four classes of guanidine-sensing riboswitches and two pathways for guanidine degradation in bacteria hint at widespread sources of unconjugated guanidine in nature. So far, only three enzymes from a narrow range of bacteria and fungi have been shown to produce guanidine, with the ethylene-forming enzyme (EFE) as the most prominent example. Here, we show that a related class of Fe2+- and 2-oxoglutarate-dependent dioxygenases (2-ODD-C23) highly conserved among plants and algae catalyze the hydroxylation of homoarginine at the C6-position. Spontaneous decay of 6-hydroxyhomoarginine yields guanidine and 2-aminoadipate-6-semialdehyde. The latter can be reduced to pipecolate by pyrroline-5-carboxylate reductase but more likely is oxidized to aminoadipate by aldehyde dehydrogenase ALDH7B in vivo. Arabidopsis has three 2-ODD-C23 isoforms, among which Din11 is unusual because it also accepted arginine as substrate, which was not the case for the other 2-ODD-C23 isoforms from Arabidopsis or other plants. In contrast to EFE, none of the three Arabidopsis enzymes produced ethylene. Guanidine contents were typically between 10 and 20 nmol*(g fresh weight)-1 in Arabidopsis but increased to 100 or 300 nmol*(g fresh weight)-1 after homoarginine feeding or treatment with Din11-inducing methyljasmonate, respectively. In 2-ODD-C23 triple mutants, the guanidine content was strongly reduced, whereas it increased in overexpression plants. We discuss the implications of the finding of widespread guanidine-producing enzymes in photosynthetic eukaryotes as a so far underestimated branch of the bio-geochemical nitrogen cycle and propose possible functions of natural guanidine production.
Guanidine Production by Plant Homoarginine-6-hydroxylases
Authors: Funck Dietmar , Sinn Malte , Forlani Giuseppe , Hartig Jörg S.
Published: October 2023

Metabolism and biological functions of the nitrogen-rich compound guanidine have long been neglected. The discovery of four classes of guanidine-sensing riboswitches and two pathways for guanidine degradation in bacteria hint at hitherto overlooked but widespread sources of unconjugated guanidine in nature. So far, only three enzymes from a narrow range of bacteria and fungi have been shown to produce guanidine, with the ethylene-forming enzyme as the most prominent example. Here, we show that a related class of Fe
2+
- and 2-oxoglutarate-dependent dioxygenases (2-ODD-C23) highly conserved among plants and algae catalyze the hydroxylation of homoarginine at the C6-position. Spontaneous decay of 6-hydroxyhomoarginine yields guanidine and 2-aminoadipate-6-semialdehyde. The latter can be reduced to pipecolate by pyrroline-5-carboxylate reductase but is more likely to be oxidized to aminoadipate by aldehyde dehydrogenase ALDH7B
in vivo
. Arabidopsis has three 2-ODD-C23 isoforms, among which Din11 is unusual because it also accepted arginine as substrate, which was not the case for the other 2-ODD-C23 isoforms from Arabidopsis or other plants. Guanidine contents were typically between 10 and 20 nmol*(g fresh weight)
-1
in Arabidopsis but increased to 100 or 300 nmol*(g fresh weight)
-1
after homoarginine feeding or treatment with Din11-inducing methyljasmonate, respectively. In 2-ODD-C23 triple mutants, the guanidine content was strongly reduced, whereas it increased in overexpression plants. We discuss the implications of the finding of widespread guanidine-producing enzymes in photosynthetic eukaryotes as a so far underestimated branch of the bio-geochemical nitrogen cycle and propose possible functions of natural guanidine production.