bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of the Position of Local Ta Doping in SiNx Resistive Random Access Memory
Authors: Wu Shuliang , Gao Haixia , Sun Yuxin , Guo Jingshu , Duan Yiwei , Qian Mengyi , Ma Xiaohua , Yang Yintang
Published: November 2022

This article presents an analysis of the effect of the Ta‐doping position on the performance of SiNx‐based resistive random access memories by comparing the electrical properties and conduction mechanisms of the devices. The electrical test results show that when the doping position moves down in the resistive switching (RS) layer, the resistance window of the device increases during the resistive switch process. However, the consistency of the parameter distribution decreases. The conduction mechanism of all Ta‐doped devices behaves as space charge limited current. According to the analysis of the RS model of the device, Ta in the RS layer connects and disconnects with the localized conductive filaments. The adjustment ability of the doping layer on the conductive channel and the reduction of the device stability when the doping position moves up are proposed. Proper Ta doping in the middle of the RS layer of the device allows the device to obtain a large resistance window with relatively stable characteristics.
Effects of active modified atmosphere on lipid and protein oxidation, moisture migration and quality properties of beef steaks
Authors: Lai Jing , Wang Ying , Zhang Xin , Zhou Liyuan , Zhu Yingchun
Published: November 2022

Fresh beef is a typically perishable food because of its high water and protein content; thus, it requires proper packaging condition and storage temperature to ensure its quality. In this study, the beef steaks were stored at 4°C under HiO2 modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) (78.8% O2 + 18.8% CO2 + 2.4% N2) and HiCO2 MAP (60.0% CO2 + 40.0% N2). The traditional air packaging (AP) and vacuum packaging (VP) were used as the controls. The total viable count (TVC), colour, water holding capacity (WHC), myofibrillar protein (MP) oxidation and lipid oxidation of beef meat were investigated. The moisture distribution and migration were also analysed using the low‐field nuclear magnetic resonance (LF‐NMR). The association amongst all parameters was analysed by correlation analysis and principal component analysis (PCA). The results showed that the TVC values in the HiCO2 MAP (5.6 log CFU/g) steaks were lower than those of VP (5.9 log CFU/g), AP (7.0 log CFU/g) and HiO2 MAP (6.3 log CFU/g) steaks because of the sufficient CO2 after 15 days of chilled storage. The bright red colour and the higher WHC were maintained in the HiO2 MAP steaks than in the AP group during storage. However, higher levels of protein and lipid oxidation also occurred. The beef steaks stored under HiCO2 MAP had the lowest protein and lipid oxidation and highest value of immobile water content and WHC, however, similar to the VP group, the bright red colour was not shown. The moisture attributes (drip loss, cooking loss and P23), protein oxidation (protein solubility and carbonyl content) and lipid oxidation (TBARS value) have shown a close correlation by correlation analysis and PCA. Overall, two different packaging methods of MAP can prolong microbial‐shelf life and maintain higher WHC of beef steaks compared to AP and VP steaks, but higher oxidation level in HiO2 MAP and unattractive colour in HiCO2 MAP are concerns that need to be addressed.
Nanotheranostic Strategies for Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Nguyen Anh , Kumar Sahana , Kulkarni Ashish A.
Published: November 2022

Despite advancements in cancer immunotherapy, heterogeneity in tumor response impose barriers to successful treatments and accurate prognosis. Effective therapy and early outcome detection are critical as toxicity profiles following immunotherapies can severely affect patients’ quality of life. Existing imaging techniques, including positron emission tomography, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, or multiplexed imaging, are often used in clinics yet suffer from limitations in the early assessment of immune response. Conventional strategies to validate immune response mainly rely on the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) and the modified iRECIST for immuno‐oncology drug trials. However, accurate monitoring of immunotherapy efficacy is challenging since the response does not always follow conventional RECIST criteria due to delayed and variable kinetics in immunotherapy responses. Engineered nanomaterials for immunotherapy applications have significantly contributed to overcoming these challenges by improving drug delivery and dynamic imaging techniques. This review summarizes challenges in recent immune‐modulation approaches and traditional imaging tools, followed by emerging developments in three‐in‐one nanoimmunotheranostic systems co‐opting nanotechnology, immunotherapy, and imaging. In addition, a comprehensive overview of imaging modalities in recent cancer immunotherapy research and a brief outlook on how nanotheranostic platforms can potentially advance to clinical translations for the field of immuno‐oncology is presented.
Validated high‐performance thin layer chromatographic method for simultaneous quantification of rifampicin and quercetin in liquisolid formulation using fractional factorial design in robustness study
Authors: Tandel Devang , Patel Kalpana , Thakkar Vaishali
Published: November 2022

The present research study focuses on the development of the high‐performance thin‐layer chromatographic method using the design of experiment approach for the simultaneous estimation of Rifampicin and Quercetin. Chromatographic separation was performed on Aluminium plates precoated with silica gel 60 F254 using chloroform:methanol:formic acid:ethyl acetate:benzene (4:1.8:0.3:1.7:1, v/v/v/v/v) as optimized mobile phase. A fractional factorial design was applied for the robustness study and the independent variables selected were mobile phase composition (A), solvent front (B), chamber saturation time (C), and wavelength (D). It was statistically revealed that the volume of ethyl acetate affected the Rf of both drugs resulting in stricter control of ethyl acetate volume compared to the other three variables. Rf for Rifampicin and Quercetin was 0.35 and 0.71 at 347 nm. The linear concentration range was 100–600 ng/band for both drugs. The %recovery ranged between 95.25% and 96.71% for Rifampicin and 95.33%–96.86% for Quercetin. The method was validated by determination of linearity, precision, accuracy, and specificity according to Q2(R1) guidelines, and the %relative standard deviation values were less than 2% for both drugs. A simple, accurate, and reproducible high‐performance thin‐layer chromatographic method was developed, for routine quality control testing of pharmaceutical formulation.
The Ukraine/Russia conflict: Geopolitical and international business strategies
Authors: Ratten Vanessa
Published: November 2022

The Ukraine and Russian conflict is one of the most pressing current global business issues. It has become a political and social issue that is influencing business practices around the world. While the topic is popular in the mainstream business press, there has been relatively little academic work on the topic. To address this gap, this article discusses the impact of the conflict on international business in terms of the perception by society about Ukrainian or Russian business activities. This means highlighting how a conflict can involve direct military intervention but also social interaction. This article reveals that there are many effects on global business stemming from the Ukraine–Russian conflict many of which are currently known, but others will be known in the future. Managerial implications are stated in the article that highlights the cultural and social impact of the crisis as well as future research suggestions for international business researchers that stress the importance of the conflict.
Effects of herbal extracts on mRNA expression of intrinsic antidepressant‐related candidate factor BNIP‐3 in cultured neuronal and glial cell lines: Relationship with the Kampo concept of Qi
Authors: Hosokai Haruka , Suzuki Rena , Zhao Qingfeng , Tohda Michihisa
Published: November 2022

Aim

It has been reported that the expression level of BNIP‐3 mRNA increases by antidepressants and Hochu‐ekki‐To (HET), suggesting that BNIP‐3 may be a candidate depression‐related factor. Therefore, in order to examine the relationship between BNIP‐3 and Qi, the expression levels of BNIP‐3 mRNA were examined using 22 newly extracted crude drugs which were selected from the previous library results on 120 crude drugs in the neuronal cell line N18TG‐2 and in the glial cell line C6Bu‐1.

Methods

Based on the results on 120 kinds of crude drugs in a cDNA library, 22 kinds were selected and newly extracted, and then cells were re‐treated with them for a secondary assay by real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) methods.

Results

Many of the herbal medicines contained in HET increased BNIP‐3 mRNA expression overall. On the other hand, in the results with especially the neuronal cell line N18TG‐2, the herbal medicines that make up Oren‐gedoku‐To (OGT) and San‐o‐shashin‐To (SOST) strongly showed suppressive effects on the expression.

Conclusion

Since HET clinically has the effect of raising mood, while an effect of OGT and SOST is to suppress the rise of mood, the result of this study may be of interest regarding the link between control of the direction of Qi and the expression of BNIP‐3 mRNA.
Computational protein design with data‐driven approaches: Recent developments and perspectives
Authors: Liu Haiyan , Chen Quan
Published: November 2022

A fundamental and challenging task of computational protein studies is to design proteins of desired structures and functions on demand. Data‐driven approaches to protein design have been gaining tremendous momentum, with recent developments concentrated on protein sequence representation and generation by using deep learning language models, structure‐based sequence design or inverse protein folding, and the de novo generation of new protein backbones. Currently, design methods have been assessed mainly by several useful computational metrics. However, these metrics are still highly insufficient for predicting the performance of design methods in wet experiments. Nevertheless, some methods have been verified experimentally, which showed that proteins of novel sequences and structures can be designed with data‐driven models learned from natural proteins. Despite the progress, an important current limitation is the lack of accurate data‐driven approaches to model or design protein dynamics.

This article is categorized under:

Structure and Mechanism > Computational Biochemistry and Biophysics

Data Science > Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning
A Kolmogorov–Chentsov Type Theorem on General Metric Spaces with Applications to Limit Theorems for Banach-Valued Processes
Authors: Krätschmer Volker , Urusov Mikhail
Published: November 2022

This paper deals with moduli of continuity for paths of random processes indexed by a general metric space $$\Theta $$
Θ
with values in a general metric space $${{\mathcal {X}}}$$
X
. Adapting the moment condition on the increments from the classical Kolmogorov–Chentsov theorem, the obtained result on the modulus of continuity allows for Hölder-continuous modifications if the metric space $${{\mathcal {X}}}$$
X
is complete. This result is universal in the sense that its applicability depends only on the geometry of the space $$\Theta $$
Θ
. In particular, it is always applicable if $$\Theta $$
Θ
is a bounded subset of a Euclidean space or a relatively compact subset of a connected Riemannian manifold. The derivation is based on refined chaining techniques developed by Talagrand. As a consequence of the main result, a criterion is presented to guarantee uniform tightness of random processes with continuous paths. This is applied to find central limit theorems for Banach-valued random processes.
Biostimulatory effect of vermicompost extract enhances soil mycorrhizal activity and selectively improves crop productivity
Authors: Koskey Gilbert , Avio Luciano , Turrini Alessandra , Sbrana Cristiana , Bàrberi Paolo
Published: November 2022

Purpose

Commercial production and the use of liquid vermicompost extract (LVE) is gaining attention as a technique that supports integrated soil-microbial-crop management for sustainable agriculture. However, the interaction effects of LVE, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), and host plants on the delivery of agroecosystem services in alkaline soil have been less studied.

Methods

We carried out a 3-year field experiment in Central Italy, to investigate the short-term effect of LVE on soil mycorrhizal inoculum potential (MIP), AMF root colonization, and productivity of berseem clover, lentil, and sunflower. LVE produced in different years were screened for microbial properties using Illumina Miseq sequencing. LVE was applied at seeding, crop stem elongation and flowering stages. Control crops received water as a placebo.

Results

LVE bacterial communities were more diverse and showed a higher turnover between 2019 and 2020 than fungal communities. Diverse microbial groups, the majority of which belonged to phyla Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, and Mucoromycota, were detected, including N-fixers (Flavobacterium, Malikia, and Citrobacter), P-solubilizers (Pseudomonas), and C-degraders (Tolumonas, Arcobacter, and Mucor). Notably, LVE treatment enhanced soil MIP and AMF root colonization in most crops, but selectively improved shoot biomass of berseem clover (+ 32%) and sunflower (+ 34%), and grain yield (+ 37%) and oil concentration (+ 5%) in sunflower, compared to the corresponding non-treated controls.

Conclusions

LVE had diverse groups of bacteria and a few fungal taxa, and its application enhanced mycorrhizal properties and selected growth- and yield-related variables in lentil, berseem clover, and sunflower. This could be due to LVE’s biostimulating effect arising from the vermicompost-associated microbiome and biomolecules.
Mimosine facilitates Fe uptake by Leucaena leucocephala subsp. glabrata in alkaline soils by solubilizing Fe-oxides
Authors: Honda Michael D. H. , Borthakur Dulal
Published: November 2022

Purpose

Giant leucaena is a tropical tree-legume that thrives in alkaline and calcareous soils. It contains large amounts of mimosine, the physiological role of which is not well understood. The goals of this study were to determine i) if mimosine is released by giant leucaena into the rhizosphere ii) if mimosine enhances solubility of Fe present in various forms in alkaline soil, and iii) if mimosine enhances transition metal uptake in giant leucaena.

Methods

Mimosine in the extracts of rhizosphere soil and root exudates was analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS) to determine if it is released by giant leucaena. Iron concentration in tissue and aqueous samples was determined by ICP-OES analysis.

Results

Mimosine was detected in both the rhizosphere eluates and root exudates. Mimosine added to samples of goethite, hematite and FeCl3 increased Fe solubility in water. Giant leucaena plants grown in alkaline soils and supplied with mimosine had higher levels of chlorophyll, Fe and Mn than the control plants.

Conclusion

Mimosine is released by giant leucaena roots into the rhizosphere, where it interacts with Fe. Mimosine enhances solubility of insoluble Fe-oxides and prevents conversion of ferric Fe to insoluble oxides at an alkaline pH. Mimosine enhances Fe and Mn uptake in plants growing in alkaline soil conditions.
Cold Plasma Treatment Increases Bioactive Metabolites in Oat (Avena sativa L.) Sprouts and Enhances In Vitro Osteogenic Activity of their Extracts
Authors: Lee Mi Ja , Lee Hyun-Jin , Lee Yongjin , Yang Ji Yeong , Song Jong Seok , Woo So Yeun , Kim Hyun Young , Song Seung-Yeob , Seo Woo Duck , Son Young-Jin , Park Sung Il
Published: November 2022

Cold plasma treatment has been studied to enhance the germination, growth, and bioactive phytochemical production in crops. Here, we aimed to investigate the effects of cold plasma treatment on the growth, bioactive metabolite production, and protein expression related to the physiological and osteogenic activities of oat sprouts. Oat seeds were soaked for 12 h, and then exposed to plasma for 6 min/day for 3 days after sowing. Plasma exposure did not significantly change the growth of oat sprouts; however, increased the content of bioactive metabolites. A single exposure for 6 min on the first day (T-1) increased the content of free amino acids (39.4%), γ-aminobutyric acid (53%), and avenacoside B (23%) compared to the control. Hexacosanol content was the highest in T-3 (6 min exposure on each day for 3 days), 28% higher than that in the control. Oat sprout extracts induced the phosphorylation of adenosine 5′-monophosphate-activated protein kinase and osteoblast differentiation was enhanced by increasing the alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity; all these effects were induced by plasma treatment. Avenacoside B content was positively correlated with ALP activity (r = 0.911, p < 0.1). These results suggest that plasma treatment has the potential to improve the value of oat sprouts and that it may be used in food fortification to enhance nutritional value for promoting human health.
Menger’s precursors in the German subjective-value tradition and his advancements in the theory of wants and goods
Authors: Harper David A. , Endres Anthony M.
Published: November 2022

Menger made wants and goods the center of economic analysis. This paper locates his theory of wants and goods in the history of economic ideas, identifying major influences from the German subjective-value tradition of the 19th century. Our survey of select German economists prior to 1871 – Hufeland, Storch, Rau, Hermann, Mischler, Stein and Schäffle – discovers insights that highlight the subjective and processual nature of the wants-goods nexus, as does Menger’s approach. Menger’s process approach to economics had several precursors – the historical record is much more nuanced than previously recognized. Menger combined existing ideas on wants and goods into a novel, more coherent and productive framework. He portrayed human wants and the desire to satisfy them as the driving force propelling economic processes. Menger’s theory about wants and goods provided the foundations for his theory of subjective value. He showed how the simple idea that people value goods in light of their wants is the key to the most fundamental problems of economic theory, including value, price formation, production, distribution and economic development, and he applied this insight to explain complex economic processes in modern market economies. Menger’s work constitutes a major synthesis that advances earlier ideas (especially of Hermann, Mischler and Schäffle) on wants, goods and their interplay, and his focus upon complementarities of consumer goods constitutes yet a further advancement on German economics.
Thalamic Aphasia: a Review
Authors: Fritsch Merve , Rangus Ida , Nolte Christian H.
Published: November 2022

Purpose of Review

Thalamic aphasia is a rare language disorder resulting from lesions to the thalamus. While most patients exhibit mild symptoms with a predominance of lexical-semantic difficulties, variations in phenotype have been described. Overall, the exact mechanisms of thalamic aphasia await empirical research. The article reviews recent findings regarding phenotypes and possible underlying mechanisms of thalamic aphasia.

Recent Findings

Variations in phenotype of thalamic aphasia may be related to different lesion locations. Overall, the thalamus’ role in language is thought to be due to its involvement in cortico-thalamic language networks with lesioning of certain nuclei resulting in the diachisis of otherwise interconnected areas. Its possible monitoring function in such a network might be due to its different cellular firing modes. However, no specific evidence has been collected to date.

While recent findings show a more distinct understanding of thalamic aphasia phenotypes and possible underlying mechanisms, further research is needed. Additionally, as standard language testing might oftentimes not pick up on its subtle symptoms, thalamic aphasia might be underdiagnosed.
Deprivation in England, 1971–2020
Authors: Lloyd C. D. , Norman P. D. , McLennan D.
Published: November 2022

Measures of small area deprivation have played a major role in targeting resources in the UK. The English Index of Multiple Deprivation (IMD) is the official measure of small area deprivation in England and it has been used to allocate billions of pounds of government money. The success of schemes to reduce deprivation can only be assessed by measuring changes in deprivation over time. In addition, the effect of such schemes is likely to be a partly a function of the deprivation history of an area. More generally, the trajectory of deprivation, and not just its current state, is important in understanding the likely impacts of deprivation on those who live in deprived areas. This paper combines the strengths of the IMD as a broad-ranging measure based on administrative data (here, using the 2004, 2007, 2010, 2015 and 2019 indices) and the Townsend score derived from Census data for a much longer time period (1971 to 2011). In addition, benefit claimant count data are used as a proxy for unemployment following the national Covid-19 lockdowns. The paper identifies some major trends in small area deprivation and unemployment over the period 1971 to 2020 and it highlights some key similarities and differences between the Townsend score and the IMD and makes links to changes in unemployment in 2020. Areas with very long term deprivation are identified and the strong association between job losses following Covid-19 lockdown and deprivation histories is demonstrated. The analyses are used to argue that deprivation trajectories should be considered if effective strategies for reducing spatial inequalities are to be developed.
Eguchi–Hanson Singularities in U(2)-Invariant Ricci Flow
Authors: Appleton Alexander
Published: November 2022

We show that a Ricci flow in four dimensions can develop singularities modeled on the Eguchi–Hanson space. In particular, we prove that starting from a class of asymptotically cylindrical U(2)-invariant initial metrics on $$TS^2$$

T

S
2

, a Type II singularity modeled on the Eguchi–Hanson space develops in finite time. Furthermore, we show that for these Ricci flows the only possible blow-up limits are (i) the Eguchi–Hanson space, (ii) the flat $${\mathbb {R}}^4 /{\mathbb {Z}}_2$$

R

4

/

Z
2

orbifold, (iii) the 4d Bryant soliton quotiented by $${\mathbb {Z}}_2$$

Z
2

, and (iv) the shrinking cylinder $${\mathbb {R}}\times {\mathbb {R}}P^3$$

R
×
R

P
3

. As a byproduct of our work, we also prove the existence of a new family of Type II singularities caused by the collapse of a two-sphere of self-intersection $$|k| \ge 3$$

|
k
|
≥
3

.
Boards of Directors in Disruptive Times
Authors: Canals Jordi
Published: November 2022

The current business context of disruptive, accelerated change requires a new framework for understanding how boards of directors can best support their organizations. In this book, Professor Jordi Canals presents a new model of effective governance, positioning the board of directors as the steward of the firm's future development, and focusing on the notion of corporate purpose. Canals argues that boards of directors should focus on strategy and corporate transformation, CEO and senior management development and succession, the board and the firm's culture, the board as a team, the engagement of shareholders and critical stakeholders, and the firm's overall impact. Moreover, for boards to be effective, directors must develop new competencies. Drawing on well-grounded theory and international case studies, this book outlines a new, holistic model of boards of directors, offering a pathway to effective governance that will enhance companies' reputation and success.
Images of the Indonesian War of Independence, 1945-1949/Perang Kemerdekaan Indonesia dalam Gambar
Authors: van der Horst Sander , Lammers Linde , van Maanen Melle
Published: November 2022

Four years of protracted negotiations and bitter warfare passed between the declaration of Indonesian independence on 17 August, 1945, and the official transfer of sovereignty on 27 December, 1949. Whereas the newly proclaimed Republic of Indonesia rejected the colonial regime and hence any attempt at 'recolonization' by the Dutch after the Japanese occupation (1942-1945), the Dutch framed their return to the archipelago as a mission to restore 'order and peace'. Images of the Indonesian War. Many of these materials, alongside photographs and oral history collections, ended up in the collections of the KITLV and eventually the Leiden University Libraries. This trilingual (English, Dutch and Indonesian) catalogue accompanies a digital exhibition of some fifty unique items. The selection made demonstrates the sharply contrasting perspectives on the legitimacy of the Republic and Dutch colonialism, and also offers first-hand testimonies of a bitter war with a huge imbalance of casualties.
An investigation of aerodynamic behaviours and aerodynamic performance of a model wing formed from different profiles
Authors: Aşkan A. , Tangöz S. , Konar M.
Published: November 2022

In this study, the aerodynamic performances and the flow separation behaviour of the wing profiles, used in the wing of Boeing 737-Classic aircraft, and a model wing formed of these profiles were investigated at 2 × 105 Reynolds number (Re) and different angles of attack ranging from −4° to the angle, which maximum lift point obtained. The experiments were conducted in a low-speed wind tunnel in Erciyes University Faculty of Aeronautics and Astronautics Aerodynamic Laboratory. Four profiles and the model wing, which was obtained from the combination of the four profiles were produced in a rectangular shape with dimensions of 0.21m × 0.21m. In the first part of this two-part study, the wing profiles were examined individually regarding aerodynamic performance and flow separation. In the second phase of the study, the aerodynamic performance and the flow separation behaviour of the model wing were examined and the results were compared with the data obtained from each profile. The study results showed that the slopes of the numerical graphics are generally quite consistent with experimental results. In addition, the pressure and velocity distributions have followed the normal trend until the angle-of-attack (AoA) of 20°. In contrast, the negative speed values and negative pressure zones have appeared on the profile above this angle. The air flowed as laminar on the profiles and the model wing until 20°, while laminar separation bubbles are begun to take place at about 24° AoA. Finally, the best aerodynamic performance has been obtained with the model wing.
Developing a Roadmap for Mass Vaccination of COVID-19 in Iran: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Seyedin Hesam , Dowlati Mohsen , Barzegar Mohammad , Bahramzadeh Saeid , Khanizade Abed , Roshanravan Mostafa , Adibi Haleh , Barghi-Shirazi Fahimeh , Rouhollahi Mahboubeh
Published: November 2022

Background:

Nowadays, the Covid-19 pandemic is 1 of the most important challenges worldwide, especially in terms of health. The most important strategy to prevent and control the Covid-19 pandemic is mass vaccination. This study aimed at developing a roadmap for the mass vaccination of COVID-19 in Iran.

Methods:

The current study was conducted using a qualitative approach with a content analysis method. In the first step, the review of literature and documents was carried out by a search in scientific databases. In the next step, the data were amassed via in-depth and semi-structured interviews with experts who were selected purposefully, including policymakers, health care workers, and managers. After this, 3 multidisciplinary expert panels for roadmap development were held.

Results:

Based on the literature review, interviews, and 3 stages of an expert panel, the final roadmap was developed with 5 dimensions. These included outcomes, planning and preparation, strategies, and preparation, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation.

Conclusions:

This roadmap was developed to improve mass vaccination during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to our findings, it is strongly recommended that the vaccination roadmap with all the above-mentioned features and comprehensive structure should be applied to mitigate the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Hepatitis B virus DNA methylation and its potential role in chronic hepatitis B
Authors: Low Wei Feng , Ngeow Yun Fong , Chook Jack Bee , Tee Kok Keng , Ong Seng-Kai , Peh Suat Cheng , Bong Jan Jin , Mohamed Rosmawati
Published: November 2022

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection led to 66% liver deaths world-wide in year 2015. Thirty-seven per cent of these deaths were the result of chronic hepatitis B (CHB)-associated hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Although early diagnosis of HCC improves survival, early detection is rare. Methylation of HBV DNA including covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) is more often encountered in HCC cases than those in CHB and cirrhosis. Three typical CpG islands within the HBV genome are the common sites for methylation. The HBV cccDNA methylation affects the viral replication and protein expression in the course of infection and may associate with the disease pathogenesis and HCC development. We review the current findings in HBV DNA methylation that provide insights into its role in HCC diagnosis.
Assessing acceptance and effects of child feeding counselling on nutritional status of children aged 6–23 months in a semi-urban community
Authors: Roy S. K. , Jahan Khurshid , Alam Nurul , Tasnim Saria , Rois Rumana
Published: November 2022

In Bangladesh, only 34 % of the children aged 18–23 months old are given minimum acceptable diets of complementary foods. Objective of the study was to find the effects of complementary feeding counselling on nutritional status among 6–23 months old children of poor families. This was a community-based randomised control trial. A total of 192 children in two groups were randomly selected. Nutrition education was given for a period of 4 months with post-intervention follow-up for 2 months. After 4 months of intervention, the difference in height for age Z score, weight for height Z score and weight for age Z score were significantly higher in the intervention group than in the control group (1·01 ± 0·31 v. 0·19 ± 0·01, P =< 0·001; 1·34 ± 0·15 v 0·72 ± 0·11, P =< 0·001; 1·5 ± 0·24 v. 0·62 ± 0·04, P =< 0·001). Mid-upper arm circumference Z score also improved in the intervention group than in the control group (0·95 ± 0·03 v. 0·57 ± 0·12, P =< 0·001). Morbidity of the children in the intervention group significantly reduced than in the control group (49 % v 80·20 %, P =< 0·001). Higher feeding frequency (3–4 times) (71·9 % v. 45·8 %) and energy intake increased in the intervention group than in the control group. Promotion of complementary feeding from the family foods can improve the nutritional status of 6–23 months old children of poor families within a short period.
Endoscopic stapler versus laser diverticulotomy for Zenker's diverticulum: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Edwards D , Prades E , Thorne C , Harris A
Published: November 2022

Objective

A literature review and meta-analysis was performed to assess for difference in rate of complications and need for revision surgery between endoscopic stapler-assisted diverticulotomy and endoscopic carbon dioxide laser diverticulotomy. The hypothesis was that endoscopic stapler-assisted diverticulotomy has a lower complication rate but endoscopic carbon dioxide laser diverticulotomy has a lower need for revision surgery.

Method

This was a systematic review of English-language studies comparing endoscopic stapler-assisted diverticulotomy and endoscopic carbon dioxide laser diverticulotomy for the treatment of Zenker's diverticulum. Meta-analysis of results with regard to rate of pharyngeal perforation, major post-operative complication and need for re-operation was performed.

Results

Nine retrospective studies were included with pooled analysis of 417 endoscopic stapler-assisted diverticulotomy and 413 endoscopic carbon dioxide laser diverticulotomy cases. Meta-analysis found no significant difference in rate of pharyngeal perforation, major complication or need for re-operation between the two groups.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated both endoscopic stapler-assisted diverticulotomy and endoscopic carbon dioxide laser diverticulotomy to be a safe alternative to open surgery for Zenker's diverticulum. Both appear to be similar in terms of adverse events and efficacy. The authors recommend either approach, guided by surgeon's preference and experience, where patients are unsuitable for an open surgery approach.
PORTVM TRAIANI: AN INTERDISCIPLINARY APPROACH TO THE IMAGERY OF TRAJAN'S HARBOUR AT PORTUS
Authors: Keay Simon , Woytek Bernhard
Published: November 2022

This is a collaborative in-depth study of Trajan's sestertii with a bird's-eye view of the harbour at Portus (RIC 631–2), struck in AD 112–14. It is based on a new numismatic analysis of the coin type, featuring a corpus of 46 specimens and a critical study of their reverse dies, as well as on recent archaeological research at the port that allows for a better understanding of the harbour buildings and their chronology. The article provides the first detailed comparison of the structures shown on the nine reverse dies with those on the ground. The new interdisciplinary assessment of the evidence leads to a new hypothesis regarding the occasion of the coin issue: it probably commemorated the inauguration of the harbour's distinctive hexagonal basin, through which the new port facility became operational.
Monks and the Muslim Enemy: Conversion, Polemic and Resistance in Monastic Hagiography in the Age of the Crusades, c. 1000–1250
Authors: Jotischky Andrew
Published: November 2022

Although most accounts of Christian encounters with Muslims in the period between the eleventh and thirteenth centuries pay particular attention to conflict and violence, a body of hagiographical texts emanating from monastic circles points to a different kind of approach. In this article I foreground three examples of Italo-Greek saints’ lives from the tenth and early eleventh centuries in which the saints in question treat Muslims whom they encounter as potential converts, and explain to them the tenets of Christian theology. These texts are examined as precursors of the Cluniac ‘dossier’ compiled about Abbot Maiolus's encounter with Muslims in the 990s. Two of the three saints’ lives were translated from Greek into Latin, one in the late eleventh, the other in the late twelfth century. The motives for and circumstances of these translations are discussed in light of growing hostility towards the Islamic world during the period of the crusades.
Ema Ushioda's essential bookshelf: Teacher engagement with classroom motivation research
Authors: Ushioda Ema
Published: November 2022

Ema Ushioda is a professor and Head of the Department of Applied Linguistics at the University of Warwick. She has been interested in motivation and autonomy in language learning for over 30 years, particularly from pedagogical and qualitative research perspectives. Recent books include Teaching and researching motivation (3rd ed.), co-authored with Zoltán Dörnyei (Routledge, 2021), and Language learning motivation: An ethical agenda for research (Oxford University Press, 2020).
A four-year multi-wave prospective study on the role of parental reflective functioning and parenting stress in the development of socio-emotional problems in internationally adopted children
Authors: Malcorps Saskia , Vliegen Nicole , Fonagy Peter , Luyten Patrick
Published: November 2022

Parental reflective functioning (PRF) plays a protective role in the development of children with histories of early adversity, including adopted children. This is the first study to investigate the developmental trajectories of PRF and children’s socio-emotional problems in the first 4 years after international adoption (N = 48 families, mean age (T1) = 20.7 months) and to examine the mediating role of parenting stress in the relation between PRF and child socio-emotional problems. Multilevel modeling indicated that age at adoption and parent gender moderated the development of PRF and child socio-emotional problems. Moreover, decreases in PRF were associated with more socio-emotional problems in the children. These relations were mediated by parenting stress, and particularly feelings of incompetence and marital dissatisfaction.
Impact of COVID-19 pandemic healthcare restrictions on utilisation and diagnostic yield of outpatient transthoracic echocardiograms
Authors: Scott Michael W. , Metcalf Christina , Bhadury Sagnik , Feygin Yana , Neal Ashley E.
Published: November 2022

Background:

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Kentucky prohibited elective medical procedures from 3/18/2020-4/27/2020. We sought to determine if cessation of elective procedures in Kentucky during the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a decrease in the proportion of rarely appropriate outpatient transthoracic echocardiograms interpreted at the open echocardiography lab at Norton Children’s Hospital.

Methods:

A retrospective chart review was conducted comparing proportions of rarely appropriate outpatient paediatric transthoracic echocardiograms performed pre-COVID (3/21/2019-4/28/2019) and during COVID (3/19/2020-4/27/2020). Transthoracic echocardiogram indication was determined by chart review and echocardiogram reports. Indication appropriateness was evaluated using paediatric appropriate use criteria for initial outpatient transthoracic echocardiogram or CHD follow-up as applicable.

Results:

Of transthoracic echocardiograms pre-COVID, 100 (37.7%) were rarely appropriate versus 18 (20.2%) during COVID. Pre-COVID, paediatric cardiologists tended to order fewer rarely appropriate transthoracic echocardiograms than paediatricians (35.9% versus 46.4%), although this difference was not statistically significant. Cardiologists ordered the majority of outpatient transthoracic echocardiograms during COVID (77/89, 86.5%), limiting the ability to compare transthoracic echocardiogram indications by provider type. There was no significant difference in diagnostic yield of initial outpatient transthoracic echocardiograms with (13.0%) abnormal studies pre-COVID versus 7 (15.5%) during COVID.

Conclusion:

While elective procedures were prohibited in Kentucky during the COVID-19 pandemic, a decrease in the proportion of rarely appropriate outpatient paediatric transthoracic echocardiograms was observed. There was no significant difference in diagnostic yield of initial outpatient transthoracic echocardiograms between time periods, suggesting that clinically significant echocardiogram findings were still detected despite more prudent utilisation of echocardiography during this time.
The “Black Gold” Flowing Under Los Angeles
Authors: Kornei Katherine
Published: November 2022

Functioning oil fields, some with cleverly camouflaged infrastructure, are tucked into the urban sprawl of the Los Angeles basin. But recent legislation could change that.
The influence of ESR1 polymorphisms on selected hormonal, metabolic and mineral balance markers in women with hyperandrogenism
Authors: Uzar Izabela , Bogacz Anna , Sowińska-Przepiera Elżbieta , Kotrych Katarzyna , Wolek Marlena , Sulikowski Tadeusz , Kamiński Adam
Published: November 2022

Hyperandrogenism is the most common endocrine disorder in women, characterized by an imbalance in normal estrogen and androgen levels in the blood. Androgens influence bone mineral density, body mass composition, muscle mass, mental state, and the regulation of sexual function.. The aim of the study was to assess the effect of estrogen receptor α gene (ESR1) polymorphisms on selected markers of bone metabolism and hormonal parameters in women with hyperandrogenism. The study group included 80 young women with hyperandrogenism who underwent measurements of bone mineral density (BMD), and determination of hormonal and metabolic parameters. Enzyme immunoassays were used to measure leptin, sRANKL (soluble receptor activator of nuclear factor-kB ligand), osteoprotegerin and 25-OH vitamin D total levels. An analysis of ESR1 gene polymorphisms was performed using the real-time PCR method. A relationship was demonstrated between the concentration of free estradiol (FEI) and the concentration of 17-OH-progesterone, and the ESR1 gene polymorphisms: rs3020314 (p = 0.031, p = 0.026 respectively) and rs1884051 (p = 0.033, p = 0.026 respectively). In conclusion, the ESR gene polymorphisms may be associated with hormonal disturbances in the concentration of estrogens and androgens, in hyperandrogenism in young women which may indirectly affect bone mineral density. However, no statistically significant relationships between the studied polymorphisms and the selected parameters of mineral metabolism have been demonstrated..
RSM process optimization of biodiesel production from rapeseed oil and waste corn oil in the presence of green and novel catalyst
Authors: Tamoradi Taiebeh , Kiasat Ali Reza , Veisi Hojat , Nobakht Valiollah , Karmakar Bikash
Published: November 2022

In the scenario of global warming and pollution, the green synthesis and use of biodiesel has acquired utmost priority. Due to several limitations of homogeneous catalysis, organobase immobilized heterogeneous catalyzed production of biodiesel has come out as a favored route. The present report demonstrates the design and synthesis of Peganum harmala spice seed extract modified GO-CuFe2O4 (SSE@GO-CuFe2O4) nanocomposite as an organobase functionalized high surface area magnetic nanocatalyst. Pistachio leaves were used in the green reduction of precursor salts to synthesize CuFe2O4 NPs. The as-synthesized nanomaterial was characterized physicochemically by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-Ray analysis (EDX), elemental mapping, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-Ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and vibrating sample magnetometer techniques (VSM). Subsequently, the catalyst was explored in the efficient synthesis of biodiesels by trans-esterification of two substrates, the rapeseed oil and waste corn oil. The optimum conditions for biodiesel production were determined through response surface methodology based on Box–Behnken design including the study of calibration curves and 3D contour plots. Easy separation and workup, use of green medium, excellent reused for several times and short reaction time are outstanding benefits of this study.
Correlates of quality of life in South Korean patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation based on the symptom management model
Authors: Jo EunJin , Kim Sanghee , Lee Hyangkyu , Lee Seok
Published: November 2022

While hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) has led to higher survival rates, the number of patients experiencing adverse reactions is also increasing. Based on the symptom management model, we aimed to analyze the relationships between symptom experience, symptom management strategies, self-management behavior, and quality of life among patients undergoing HSCT in South Korea and to identify the factors affecting their quality of life. The data of 67 conveniently sampled patients undergoing HSCT at a university-affiliated hospital, for the period from March 23 to June 7, 2016, were collected using a self-reported structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using Pearson’s correlations and multiple regression analysis. Quality of life showed a significant negative correlation with symptom experience and significant positive correlations with symptom management strategies. Factors influencing quality of life included symptom distress, symptom management strategies, and self-management behavior; these explained 39.4% of the variance. To improve quality of life in patients undergoing HSCT, the efficient management of multiple co-existing symptoms is important. There is a need for tailored nursing interventions based on a patient-focused and person-centered approach for patients undergoing HSCT.
An intelligent recognition method of chromosome rearrangement patterns based on information entropy
Authors: Wang Fushun , Zhang Ruolan , Sun Xiaohua , Wang Junhao , Liu Hongquan , Zhang Kang , Wang Chunyang
Published: November 2022

Chromosome rearrangements play an important role in the speciation of plants and animals, and the recognition of chromosome rearrangement patterns is helpful to elucidate the mechanism of species differentiation at the chromosome level. However, the existing chromosome rearrangement recognition methods have some major limitations, such as low quality, barriers to parental selection, and inability to identify specific rearrangement patterns. Based on the whole genome protein sequences, we constructed the combined figure according to the slope of the collinear fragment, the number of homologous genes, the coordinates in the top left and bottom right of the collinear fragment. The standardized combination figure is compared with the four standard pattern figures, and then combined with the information entropy analysis strategy to automatically classify the chromosome images and identify the chromosome rearrangement pattern. This paper proposes an automatic karyotype analysis method EntroCR (intelligent recognition method of chromosome rearrangement based on information entropy), which integrates rearrangement pattern recognition, result recommendation and related chromosome determination, so as to infer the evolution process of ancestral chromosomes to the existing chromosomes. Validation experiments were conducted using whole-genome data of Gossypium raimondii and Gossypium arboreum, Oryza sativa and Sorghum bicolor. The conclusions were consistent with previous results. EntroCR provides a reference for researchers in species evolution and molecular marker assisted breeding as well as new methods for analyzing karyotype evolution in other species.
Plasma proteomic characterization of the development of acute kidney injury in early sepsis patients
Authors: Star B. S. , Boahen C. K. , van der Slikke E. C. , Quinten V. M. , ter Maaten J. C. , Henning R. H. , Kumar V. , Bouma H. R.
Published: November 2022

Acute kidney injury (AKI) develops frequently in the course of patients with sepsis and strongly associates with in-hospital mortality. However, diagnosing AKI involves a considerable lag-time because it depends on assessing an increase in serum creatinine, and offers no insight in the underlying pathophysiology. Consequently, identifying a set of proteins reflecting the development of AKI may improve earlier recognition of AKI and the understanding of its pathophysiology. A targeted plasma proteomic approach was performed in early sepsis patients with and without subsequent AKI development in a matched pair design (n = 19 each). Principal component analysis identified 53 proteins associated with development of AKI, which were further analysed using Enrichr gene ontology and pathway analysis. Nine differentially expressed proteins from the targeted proteomics were increased among patients who subsequently developed AKI and correlated with principal components, namely CALCA, CALR, CA12, CLEC1A, PTK7, KIM-1, NPPC, NUCB2 and PGF. We demonstrated the biological insight in the development of AKI in early sepsis compared to non-AKI sepsis.