bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Going away or going green in ASEAN countries: Testing the impact of green financing and energy on environmental sustainability
Authors: Jahanger Atif , Balsalobre-Lorente Daniel , Ali Mumtaz , Samour Ahmed , Abbas Shujaat , Tursoy Turgut , Joof Foday
Published: May 2023

The role of green finance is to develop green industry mechanisms in areas including transportation, building, water preservation, clean energy production, storage, and distribution, which ultimately results in emissions and waste reduction, biodiversity habitat protection, and pollution control. Therefore, recognizing the significance of green finance, this research investigates the asymmetric role of green finance and clean energy in the reduction of carbon emissions along with economic growth, foreign direct investment, and urbanization as control antecedents using the econometric model of “non-linear autoregressive distributed lag (NARDL)” for the period 2000–2020 in ASEAN nations. According to the NARDL outcomes, green finance, and clean energy positive shock enhances the ecological quality and negative shocks harm environmental quality. In addition, economic growth, and urbanization contribute to harmful pollutants. Therefore, the results recommend ASEAN nations’ governments, environmentalists, and policymakers, devise strong financial mechanisms, and develop long-term green investment strategies to attract green finance and investment opportunities to bridge the gap in clean energy.
Examining expertise: Synthetic biology experts’ perceptions of risk, benefit, and the public for research and applications regulation
Authors: Wirz Christopher D. , Howell Emily L. , Scheufele Dietram A. , Brossard Dominique , Xenos Michael A.
Published: May 2023

Scientific experts can play an important role in decision-making surrounding policy for technical and value-laden issues, often in contexts that directly affect lay publics. Yet little is known about what characterizes scientific experts who want lay public involvement in decision-making. In this study, we examine how synthetic biology experts’ perceptions of risks, benefits, and ambivalence for synthetic biology relate to views of lay publics, deference to scientific authority, and regulations. We analyzed survey data of researchers in the United States, who published academic articles relating to synthetic biology from 2000 to 2015. Scientific experts who see less risk and are more deferent to scientific authority appear to favor a more closed system in which regulations are sufficient, citizens should not be involved, and scientists know best. Conversely, scientific experts who see more potential for risk and see the public as bringing a valuable perspective appear to favor a more open, inclusive system.
An Observational Study on the Intraoperative Awareness Following General Anesthetic Drugs
Authors: Priyadharsini K. Soundarya , Haldar Nikita , Prasad T. Krishna , Ramanna Mali Kalpana , Annamalai Maduram
Published: May 2023

Objective

To determine intraoperative awareness and estimate the factors associated with intraoperative awareness.

Methods

An observational cross-sectional study was carried out after approval from the institutional ethical committee. The duration of the study is 2 months. After completion of the surgical procedure, anesthesia was reversed, and there was an adequate return of consciousness. The patients were interviewed about their surgery using the modified form of the Brice questionnaire. After the questionnaire was completed, it was analyzed, and patients were categorized into either having definite awareness, possible awareness, or no awareness.

Results

It was observed that out of 90 patients operated on under general anesthesia, eight reported having remembered something under general anesthesia. Out of eight patients, two were found to have definite awareness, and the occurrence of definite awareness was calculated to be 2.22%. Six patients were categorized under possible awareness, and the occurrence of possible awareness was estimated to be 6.6% in our study.

Conclusion

The occurrence of intraoperative awareness was estimated to be 8.8%, including definite and possible awareness under general anesthesia. Finally, we conclude that intraoperative awareness might be due to the inadequate depth of general anesthesia given to the patients. The dose of general anesthetic drugs was not maintained based on its minimum alveolar concentration (MAC).
Comparison of 2 sampling methods for molecular detection of bacteria or fungi from feline hair and scale specimens
Authors: Santana Aline E. , Torres Sheila M. F. , Costa Matheus de O.
Published: May 2023

Skin diseases of cats are among the most frequent client motivations for a veterinary consultation. Both carpet and toothbrush sampling are commonly used to obtain hair and scale samples for microbiologic testing. Although molecular tests have become more accessible and more widely used by clinicians, the ideal collection method for clinical specimens is unclear. To assess their performance in retrieving microbial DNA from clinical samples, we compared the bacterial and fungal DNA load in hair and skin scale samples collected using carpet or toothbrush methods. We evaluated sample DNA yield using fluorometry, spectrophotometry, and quantitative PCR. Despite no measurable differences in sample weight, toothbrush samples yielded significantly higher bacterial ( p = 0.028) and fungal ( p = 0.005) DNA loads compared to carpet samples, regardless of disease status. The toothbrush method was more effective in harvesting microbial DNA from hair and skin scale samples.
Canine leproid granuloma caused by a member of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex
Authors: Giannitti Federico , Dorsch Matías A. , Fernández-Ciganda Sofía , Rabaza Ana , Vázquez Sebastián , César Deborah , Hurtado Joaquín , Greif Gonzalo , Rabeneck Demi B. , Bhatnagar Julu , Ritter Jana M.
Published: May 2023

Canine leproid granuloma (CLG) is a chronic form of dermatitis that has been associated with nontuberculous mycobacterial infections in Africa, Oceania, the Americas, and Europe. We report here a case of CLG associated with a member of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC), which could be of public health concern. An 8-y-old pet dog developed 0.5–1-cm diameter, raised, firm, nonpruritic, alopecic, painless skin nodules on the external aspects of both pinnae. Histologic examination revealed severe pyogranulomatous dermatitis with intracellular Ziehl-Neelsen–positive bacilli that were immunoreactive by immunohistochemistry using a polyclonal primary antibody that recognizes tuberculous and nontuberculous Mycobacterium species. DNA extracted from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded skin sections was tested by a Mycobacterium genus–specific nested PCR assay targeting the 16S rRNA gene. BLAST sequence analysis of 214-bp and 178-bp amplicons showed 99.5% identity with members of the MTBC; however, the agent could not be identified at the species level. Although CLG has been associated traditionally with nontuberculous mycobacterial infections, the role of Mycobacterium spp. within the MTBC as a cause of this condition, and the role of dogs with CLG as possible sources of MTBC to other animals and humans, should not be disregarded given its zoonotic potential.
Stem Cell-Based Tissue Engineering for Cleft Defects: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Natsir Kalla Diandra S. , Alkaabi Salem A. , Hendra Faqi N. , Nasrun Nisrina E. , Ruslin Muhammad , Forouzanfar Tymour , Helder Marco N.
Published: May 2023

This study aimed to analyze the efficacy of stem cell-based tissue engineering for the treatment of alveolar cleft (AC) and cleft palate (CP) defects in animal models.

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Preclinical studies on alveolar cleft repair in maxillofacial practice.

Electronic search was performed using PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases. Pre-clinical studies, where stem cell-based tissue engineering was used in the reconstruction of AC and CP in animal models were included. Quality of the selected articles was evaluated using SYRCLE (SYstematic Review Centre for Laboratory animal Experimentation).

Review of alveolar cleft bone augmentation interventions in preclinical models.

Outcome parameters registered were new bone formation (NBF) and/or bone mineral density (BMD).

Thirteen large and twelve small animal studies on AC (21) and CP (4) reconstructions were included. Studies had an unclear-to-high risk of bias. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells were the most widely used cell source. Meta-analyses for AC indicated non-significant benefits in favor of: (1) scaffold + cells over scaffold-only (NBF P = .13); and (2) scaffold + cells over empty control (NBF P = .66; BMD P = .31). Interestingly, dog studies using regenerative grafts showed similar to superior bone formation compared to autografts. Meta analysis for the CP group was not possible.

AC and CP reconstructions are enhanced by addition of osteogenic cells to biomaterials. Directions and estimates of treatment effect are useful to predict therapeutic efficacy and guide future clinical trials of bone tissue engineering.
Tonic Immobility as a Defensive Trauma Response to Rape: Bridging Public Health and Law
Authors: de Heer Brooke A. , Jones Lynn C.
Published: May 2023

There is widespread scientific evidence that validates tonic immobility (TI) as part of the trauma response in victims of rape, and criminal justice practitioners are increasingly trained in trauma-informed approaches. Yet, legal and policy definitions of consent do not fully recognize TI during the incident as evidence of nonconsent. Using a systematic review of U.S. law and policy regarding sexual violence and consent, this paper analyzes the substantial legal reform of rape law and definitions of consent, suggesting ways to further integrate TI into existing law and legal practices to improve public health approaches and justice responses for victims.
Self-Transcendence as a Mediator of the Relationship Between Reminiscence Functions and Death Anxiety: Implications for Psychiatric Nurses
Authors: Abu Khait Abdallah , Menger Austin , Al-Modallal Hanan , Abdalrahim Asem , Moldovan Theodora , Hamaideh Shaher H.
Published: May 2023

Background:

Jordan’s population of older adults is growing due to improved health care and lifestyle, but the country has limited mental health care resources, causing challenges for the health care system. Reminiscence is a point of nursing intervention and a way for psychiatric nurses to help people improve their mental health by expanding their personal boundaries (self-transcendence).

Aims:

The study aimed to examine the mediating effects of self-transcendence on the relationship between reminiscence functions and death anxiety in a sample of Jordanian older adults. Psychiatric nurses can refine reminiscence therapy by targeting aspects of self-transcendence to reduce death anxiety.

Methods:

An online cross-sectional survey was employed to collect the data. A total of 319 older adults participated in the study. The sample was recruited using convenience and snowball sampling strategies through social media and personal contacts.

Results:

The reminiscence function of “Bitterness Revival,” gender, the presence of a life-threatening disease, a history of psychiatric disorder, and the work sector were statistically significant predictors of death anxiety. This model accounts for 24% of the death anxiety score ( F = 7.789, p < .001). Reminiscence functions 1, 2, and 5 predicted self-transcendence. This model explained 25% of the variance in the self-transcendence score ( F = 6.548, p < .001). Self-transcendence exerts a positive, partial mediating effect between “Bitterness Revival” and death anxiety, controlling for other covariates in the death anxiety model ( p = .016).

Conclusions:

The study is informative for understanding the role of self-transcendence in buffering death anxiety, notwithstanding “Bitterness Revival” reminiscences. This knowledge reveals practical implications for psychiatric nurses about the importance of developing reminiscence interventions to promote self-transcendence and ease death anxiety.
Heterogeneity in Meta-Analytic Effect Sizes: An Assessment of the Current State of the Literature
Authors: Kepes Sven , Wang Wenhao , Cortina Jose M.
Published: May 2023

Heterogeneity refers to the variability in effect sizes across different samples and is one of the major criteria to judge the importance and advancement of a scientific area. To determine how studies in the organizational sciences address heterogeneity, we conduct two studies. In study 1, we examine how meta-analytic studies conduct heterogeneity assessments and report and interpret the obtained results. To do so, we coded heterogeneity-related information from meta-analytic studies published in five leading journals. We found that most meta-analytic studies report several heterogeneity statistics. At the same time, however, there tends to be a lack of detail and thoroughness in the interpretation of these statistics. In study 2, we review how primary studies report heterogeneity-related results and conclusions from meta-analyses. We found that the quality of the reporting of heterogeneity-related information in primary studies tends to be poor and unrelated to the detail and thoroughness with which meta-analytic studies report and interpret the statistics. Based on our findings, we discuss implications for practice and provide recommendations for how heterogeneity assessments should be conducted and communicated in future research.
Accounting for tourism carbon emissions: A consumption stripping perspective based on the tourism satellite account
Authors: Qin Fangming , Liu Jingyan , Li Gang
Published: May 2023

Limitations in statistical data and differences in accounting methods have hindered the accuracy of tourism carbon emissions accounting. In this research, based on the Tourism Satellite Account (TSA) and underpinned by the logic of “accounting basis–key coefficient–accounting objective,” a comprehensive decomposition accounting method is built from a consumption stripping perspective. First, it classifies the tourism industry by the “sector–industry–product” structure into seven sectors, 13 industries, and 22 characteristic products/services. Next, it strips the actual tourism consumption from the tourism industry by constructing two key coefficients. Finally, it transforms tourism consumption data into carbon emissions data by introducing tourism ecological efficiency. Taking Guangdong province of China as an example, its tourism carbon emissions are calculated from 2010 to 2020 using the proposed method. The results reveal the distribution structure of tourism carbon emissions and confirm the scientific and accurate nature of this accounting method.
One should not separate a newborn from their hospitalized parent: A retrospective case analysis
Authors: Taylor Dylan Z. , Caruso-Brown Amy E. , Brenner Jay
Published: May 2023

Restrictive visitation policies produce inequities in healthcare that have meaningful consequences for patients’ health and well-being. There is a surplus of existing literature exploring the consequences of reduced visitation in the setting of pediatric patients lacking decision-making capacity, but relatively little scholarship addressing visitation restriction for less vulnerable adults possessing capacity. Here, we present the case of a patient who suffered serious complications of childbirth, during the delivery of her healthy newborn, leading to prolonged hospitalization. During her treatment course, she was subsequently denied visitation with her newborn, who had been discharged from the hospital, and this had detrimental effects on her recovery. Hospital policies restricting visitation during the COVID-19 pandemic were intended to reduce the risk of disease exposure for both patients and staff, despite conflicting evidence demonstrating this benefit. In contrast, they often have negative effects on patient stress, mood, and physical recovery. The sequelae of this US-based case study argue the need for more holistic hospital visitation policies, placing a specific lens on adult patients receiving a visitation from their newborn children.
Legacies of a martial race: Sikh investment and implication in the US police state
Authors: Kaur Harleen
Published: May 2023

British colonization in India had devastating social, psychological, and political consequences for Sikhs in nineteenth-century Punjab. Still, much of the diasporic community remains nostalgic for this era of the Sikh “martial race”—a British-crafted racial category through which Sikhs were constructed as biologically and culturally suited for imperial service and consequently received privileged status within the colonial hierarchy. Today, this nostalgia emerges as a commemorative mechanism in US Sikh advocacy projects to incorporate the Sikh turban and unshorn hair into US military and police uniform. Through an analysis of community narratives around publicized Sikh deaths, this article explores the impact of martial race commemoration on Sikh subjectivity formation. Delineating when and how private grief is transformed into public remembrance, I argue such commemorative frameworks in US Sikh advocacy projects inform which Sikh bodies are worthy of collective mourning by suturing Sikh bodies’ value to their service to US imperialism.
Phillyrin Ameliorates Oxidative Stress in D-Galactose-Induced Senescence in the Brain of Mice by Regulating the Nrf2/ HO-1 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Li Xuemin , Wang Ling , Li Chenyang , Tian Ruotao , Bai Yongfei , Zhang Xiaohong , Li Shuqin
Published: May 2023

Objective

To investigate the effects of phillyrin on D-galactose (D-gal)-induced aging in the brain of mice and mechanism.

Methods

Institute of Cancer Research mice were intraperitoneally injected with D-gal 150 mg/kg to induce the aging model, and the mice were treated with phillyrin 5, 15, and 45 mg/kg once a day for 8 weeks.

Results

The memory impairment induced by D-gal in brain aging was ameliorated by phillyrin treatment, and the oxidative stress in the aging brain and serum was inhibited, as evidenced by increased superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase enzyme activities, and decreased malondialdehyde levels. Additionally, the hippocampus damage has also been well improved by phillyrin. Moreover, the protein expressions of nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), and NADPH quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1) were markedly up-regulated and the expression of Keap-1 was down-regulated in the phillyrin group than that in the aging model group.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that phillyrin is effective in the prevention of age-related memory impairment, and the attenuation oxidative stress by activating the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway in the hippocampus may be one of the mechanisms.
The limitations of fixed-term contract regulation
Authors: Gundt Nicola
Published: May 2023

This case note discusses the lack of remedies in case of an infringement of clause 5 of the Fixed-Term Work Directive 1999 and the dangers in cases where fixed-term work abuses can be traced back to discriminatory treatment. The analysis focuses on the availability of remedies in case of primary EU law being violated, but also on the limits of special treatment that an entreprise de tendance may claim for its employees.
A typology of shī ʿī discourses and possibilities of democracy
Authors: Ghobadzadeh Naser , Akbar Ali
Published: May 2023

This article presents a typology of the major religio-political discourses in the Shī ʿī world, namely Shī ʿa orthodoxy, governmental Shī ʿism, and reformist Shī ʿism. We compare the political stance of the former discourse, which has received the least amount of attention in academic circles, with the other two well-researched discourses. The typology offered in this article will be helpful not only in providing a comprehensive picture of Shī ʿī politico-religious discourses, but also in providing a useful framework for further comparative analyses. We investigate the political theology and history of these discourses, as well as their capacity to accommodate popular sovereignty. We argue that while both orthodox and reformist Shī ʿī discourses embrace popular sovereignty, the linchpin of governmental Shī ʿism is divine sovereignty, which cannot be reconciled with popular sovereignty.
Mid-term clinical and radiographic outcomes after primary total hip replacement with fully hydroxyapatite-coated stem: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Studers Pēteris , Jakovicka Dārta , Solska Jana , Bladiko Una , Radziņa Maija
Published: May 2023

Background

The number of total hip arthroplasties increases every year as the population ages. The purpose of the study was to evaluate mid-term clinical and radiological results for a minimum of two years and the survival rate at the 5-year follow-up period using a fully hydroxyapatite (HA)-coated stem.

Methods

A single-center retrospective observational study was conducted, in which 121 primary total hip arthroplasties (THA) were performed between 2013 and 2015 using a standard offset Corail fully HA-coated stem. The study included 108 patients, with a median age among all patients of 55.00 years (range 18.0–79.0 years). The median follow-up time was 4 years and 9 months.

Results

Stem survival for any reason was 98.4% at 5 years. The mean Harris Hip Score and Engh Grading Scale before surgery and at the follow-up visit show statistically significant improvement, accordingly (44.70 vs 98.13; p < 0.001) and (17.42 vs 19.68; p < 0.01). There is no statistically significant correlation between radiological and clinical results and no correlation between follow-up time and results.

Conclusions

A completely coated hydroxyapatite standard offset Corail stem shows an excellent survival rate for a 5-year follow-up. Although the radiological results are not perfect, the clinical evaluation shows that the patients are satisfied and are not limited in their daily activities as before the surgery.
Endogeneity and the Dynamics of Corporate Governance and Innovation in India’s Manufacturing Sector
Authors: Gulzar Ishfaq , Bisati Azhar Imtiyaz , Haque S. M. Imamul
Published: May 2023

This article presents the System Generalized Method of Moments (SGMM) results on the empirical association between innovation and corporate governance for a panel data set of 88 manufacturing companies in India listed on the NSE 200 Index from 2014 to 2020. GMM approach controls the potential sources of endogeneity inherent in the innovation—corporate governance relationship which mainly arises due to unobserved heterogeneity and simultaneity bias. We empirically analyze corporate governance and innovation to understand the market value of research and development practices of manufacturing companies in India. Our results indicate that Board size, Board meetings, and CEO duality support the “value creation” hypothesis of corporate governance of manufacturing companies in India. However, ownership concentration and Board meeting contradict “value creation hypotheses.” Therefore, this study identifies various factors of corporate governance that can help manufacturing companies in India in innovation and growth options. Further, this study recommends that ownership concentration and Board meetings should be properly assessed, as the concentrated owners should not merely act as expropriates, but rather should enable the long-term sustainability of the firm by taking the initiative, which enhances growth.
Cross-cultural Validation of the Norwegian Version of the Banff Patellofemoral Instability Instrument 2.0
Authors: Hysing-Dahl Trine , Magnussen Liv Heide , Faleide Anne Gro Heyn , Kjellsen Asle Birkeland , Mo Ingunn Fleten , Waaler Per Arne Skarstein , Mundal Renate , Inderhaug Eivind
Published: May 2023

Background:

The Banff Patellofemoral Instability Instrument (BPII) 2.0 is a disease-specific quality of life questionnaire for patients with patellofemoral instability. While good psychometric properties have been demonstrated, the data lack cross-cultural validity, construct validity, and an established measurement error.

Purpose:

To (1) translate and cross-culturally adapt the BPII 2.0 to the Norwegian version (BPII 2.0–No) and (2) examine the psychometric properties of the Norwegian version.

Study Design:

Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

The BPII 2.0 was translated according to international guidelines. A cohort of 100 patients surgically treated for recurrent patellofemoral instability completed the BPII 2.0–No, related outcome measures (Norwich Patellar Instability Score, International Knee Documentation Committee Subjective Knee Form 2000, Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, and Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia), and functional tests (Y-Balance Test–Lower Quarter, single-leg hop tests, and knee extension strength) before and/or 6 months after surgery. We evaluated the face and content validity, internal consistency (Cronbach α), test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC]), measurement error (SEM and smallest detectable change at the individual [SDCind] and group levels [SDCgroup]). Construct validity was assessed by testing 9 hypotheses on the correlation between the BPII 2.0–No and the outcome measures/functional tests (Pearson r).

Results:

The BPII 2.0–No had good face and content validity. Internal consistency was excellent (α = .95), and no floor or ceiling effects were found. Test-retest reliability was high (ICC2,1 = 0.87; 95% CI, 0.77-0.93), and measurement error was low (SEM = 7.1). The SDCind was 19.7 points and the SDCgroup was 2.8 points. Eight of the 9 hypotheses regarding construct validity were confirmed.

Conclusion:

The BPII 2.0–No was found to be valid and reliable. This study adds further knowledge on the measurement properties of the BPII 2.0 that can be used internationally.
Effect of High-Intensity Interval Training on Fatty Infiltration After Delayed Rotator Cuff Repair in a Mouse Model
Authors: Zhou Hecheng , Wang Zili , Chen Chuanshun , Hu Hai , Jiang Binbin , Yin Yuesong , Zhang Kexiang , Shen Minren , Wu Song
Published: May 2023

Background:

Fatty infiltration (FI) of the rotator cuff muscles is correlated with shoulder function and retear rates after rotator cuff repair. High-intensity interval training (HIIT) induces beige adipose tissue to express more uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) to consume lipids. The beta-3 adrenergic receptor (β3AR) is located on adipocyte membrane and induces thermogenesis.

Purpose:

To test the role of HIIT in improving muscle quality and contractility in a delayed rotator cuff repair mouse model via β3AR.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Three-month-old C57BL/6J mice underwent a unilateral supraspinatus (SS) tendon transection with a 6-week delayed tendon repair. Mice ran on a treadmill with the HIIT program for 6 weeks after tendon transection or after delayed repair. To study the role of β3AR, SR59230A, a selective β3AR antagonist, was administered to mice 10 minutes before each exercise through intraperitoneal injection. The SS, interscapular brown adipose tissue (iBAT), and subcutaneous inguinal white adipose tissue (ingWAT) were harvested at the end of the 12th week after tendon transection and were analyzed by histology and Western blotting. Tests were performed to assess muscle contractility of the SS.

Results:

Histologic analysis of SS showed that HIIT prevented and reversed muscle atrophy and FI. The contractile tests showed higher contractility of the SS in the HIIT groups than in the no-exercise group. In the HIIT groups, SS, iBAT, and ingWAT all showed increased expression of tyrosine hydroxylase, UCP1, and upregulated β3AR thermogenesis pathway. However, SR59230A inhibited HIIT, suggesting that the effect of HIIT depends on β3AR.

Conclusion:

HIIT improved SS quality and function after delayed rotator cuff repair through a β3AR-dependent mechanism.

Clinical Relevance:

HIIT may serve as a new rehabilitation method for patients with rotator cuff muscle atrophy and FI after rotator cuff repair to improve postoperative clinical outcomes.
Prevalence of Urinary Incontinence and its Relationship With Sociodemographic and Obstetrical Variables Among Omani Women
Authors: Seshan Vidya , Francis Frincy , Raghavan Divya , Arulappan Judie , Hashmi Iman Al , Prince Emi John , Jaju Sanjay , Azri Zeyana Al , Alkharusi Lamya
Published: May 2023

Objective

Urinary incontinence (UI) is defined by the International Continence Society as any complaint of involuntary urine leakage. This research study highlights the prevalence, types, and associated factors of UI among women in Oman.

Methodology

A descriptive cross-sectional design was used to collect data using purposive sampling technique from 400 women between 20 and 60 years; who were attending outpatient department of a referral hospital in Oman. Women were assessed using the Questionnaire for Urinary Incontinence Diagnosis to determine the type of UI. The severity and the impact of UI in women were assessed using the female urinary tract symptoms module (ICIQ-UI-SF). Descriptive statistics were used to determine the prevalence and type of UI, and the Chi-square test was used to find the association between UI and sociodemographic and obstetrical variables.

Results

In our study, 28.25% of the women belonged to the age of 50–59 years. The point prevalence (per 1000) of UI among Omani women who were between 20 and 60 years was 44%. In the women who had UI, the majority were having stress UI (41.6%). In the women who had UI, the severity of UI, according to the ICIQ-UI-SF scoring, 15.2% of the women had slight, 50.3% had moderate, 33.1% had severe, and only 1.3% had very intense.

Conclusion

Understanding the prevalence of UI in every community and associated factors is essential for the policy makers and healthcare providers to consider the early diagnosis, prevention, health promotion, and management of UI.
How Ethnic Minority SME Owners in the UK can Create Value Amid Informal Institutional Voids
Authors: Olarewaju Tolu , Tamvada Pawan
Published: May 2023

This article shows that the COVID-19 pandemic exposed informal institutional voids that exist for Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) business owners in the United Kingdom. Based on a primary database of surveys and semi-structured interviews, the results show that many BAME small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) owners encountered informal institutional voids that White SME owners did not face during the pandemic. The article also shows how these BAME SME owners created value amid these institutional voids and how they can continue to do so. The article concludes by suggesting that bridging these voids is crucial for promoting a more inclusive environment where ethnic and non-ethnic entrepreneurs can succeed. It also presents policy implications and offers directions for future research.
Constructive replication, reproducibility, and generalizability: Getting theory testing for JOMSR right
Authors: Köhler Tine , Cortina Jose M.
Published: May 2023

In this editorial, we provide guidance regarding the design and execution of replication, reproducibility, and generalizability studies and explain the unique purpose and empirical contribution of each research design to the overall knowledge generation and consolidation cycle. We evaluate these research designs within the confines of JOMSR's mission to avoid novel theorizing, but instead to engage only in testing of existing theory or of combinations of existing theory. We identify two important dimensions on which these research designs can vary, independence and constructiveness, and highlight the particular utility of independent studies that are high in constructiveness. We offer suggestions for the identification of suitable targets for reproducibility and replication as well as concrete examples demonstrating high-quality theory testing.
Evaluation of the optimal ground motion intensity measure in the prediction of the seismic vulnerability of earth dams
Authors: Regina Gianluca , Zimmaro Paolo , Ziotopoulou Katerina , Cairo Roberto
Published: May 2023

The large majority of existing earth dams were designed with old standards, which often accounted for the effects of earthquakes in a simplified manner. As a result, seismic re-evaluation of these structures is now becoming increasingly important for dam owners. The seismic performance of earth dams can be evaluated at different levels of resolution, typically ranging from simple sliding block analysis, to the use of advanced numerical models. Seismic inputs for these models are typically chosen using code-based or site-specific probabilistic seismic hazard analysis (PSHA). In this study, we analyze the seismic vulnerability of two major earth dams located in Southern Italy, a seismically active area. The two dam systems have different geotechnical characteristics: one of them is founded on potentially liquefiable materials, whereas the other one is not susceptible to liquefaction. Our analyses are based on finite difference numerical simulations using both simplified and advanced constitutive models. Seismic vulnerability of both dams is analyzed by means of analytical fragility functions for various damage mechanisms and ground motion intensity measures (IMs). Such fragility functions are based on nonlinear deformation analyses within the multiple stripe analysis framework. We analyze efficiency and predictability of various IMs in predicting different damage levels and mechanisms. We show that the cumulative absolute velocity is overall the optimal IM in predicting vulnerability of both earth dams. We also analyze the relative importance of PSHA inputs (i.e. alternative ground motion and earthquake rupture forecast models; GMMs and ERFMs, respectively) and numerical models (simplified vs advanced) in the seismic analysis of earth dams by means of tornado diagrams. We show that the choice of GMMs and ERFMs is always more important than that of the constitutive model. However, for dams prone to liquefaction, the choice of the constitutive model has a higher importance than for non-liquefiable earth dams.
Combined transcriptome and metabolome analysis reveal key regulatory genes and pathways of feed conversion efficiency of oriental river prawn Macrobrachium nipponense
Authors: Ling Feiyue , Fan Yaoran , Wang Zefei , Xie Nan , Li Jiale , Wang Guiling , Feng Jianbin
Published: May 2023

Background

Oriental river prawnMacrobrachium nipponenseis an economically important aquaculture species in China, Japan, and Vietnam. In commercial prawn farming, feed cost constitutes about 50 to 65% of the actual variable cost. Improving feed conversion efficiency in prawn culture will not only increase economic benefit, but also save food and protect the environment. The common indicators used for feed conversion efficiency include feed conversion ratio (FCR), feed efficiency ratio (FER), and residual feed intake (RFI). Among these, RFI is much more suitable than FCR and FER during the genetic improvement of feed conversion efficiency for aquaculture species.

Results

In this study, the transcriptome and metabolome of hepatopancreas and muscle ofM. nipponensefrom high RFI low RFI groups, which identified after culture for 75 days, were characterized using combined transcriptomic and metabolomic analysis. A total of 4540 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in hepatopancreas, and 3894 DEGs in muscle were identified, respectively. The DEGs in hepatopancreas were mainly enriched in KEGG pathways including the metabolism of xenobiotics by cytochrome P450 (down-regulated), fat digestion and absorption (down-regulated) and aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis (up-regulated), etc. The DEGs in muscle were mainly enriched in KEGG pathways including the protein digestion and absorption (down-regulated), glycolysis/gluconeogenesis (down-regulated), and glutathione metabolism (up-regulated), etc. At the transcriptome level, the RFI ofM. nipponensewas mainly controlled in biological pathways such as the high immune expression and the reduction of nutrients absorption capacity. A total of 445 and 247 differently expressed metabolites (DEMs) were identified in the hepatopancreas and muscle, respectively. At the metabolome level, the RFI ofM. nipponensewas affected considerably by amino acid and lipid metabolism.

Conclusions

M. nipponensefrom higher and lower RFI groups have various physiological and metabolic capability processes. The down-regulated genes, such as carboxypeptidase A1, 6-phosphofructokinase, long-chain-acyl-CoA dehydrogenase, et. al., in digestion and absorption of nutrients, and the up-regulated metabolites, such as aspirin, lysine, et. al., in response to immunity could be potential candidate factors contributed to RFI variation forM. nipponense. Overall, these results would provide new insights into the molecular mechanism of feed conversion efficiency and assist in selective breeding to improve feed conversion efficiency inM. nipponense.
Metagenomic analysis reveals taxonomic and functional diversity of microbial communities on the deteriorated wall paintings of Qinling Tomb in the Southern Tang Dynasty, China
Authors: Xing Wei , Qi Binjie , Chen Rulong , Ding Wenjun , Zhang Fang
Published: May 2023

The microbial colonization on ancient murals attracts more and more attention since the threaten by microorganisms was first reported in Lascaux, Spain. However, the biodeterioration or biodegradation of mural paintings resulted by microorganisms is not clear yet. Especially the biological function of microbial communities in different conditions remained largely unaddressed. The two mausoleums of the Southern Tang Dynasty are the largest group of emperor mausoleums during the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period in China, which are of great significance to the study of the architecture, imperial mausoleum systems and art in the Tang and Song Dynasties. To make clear the species composition and metabolic functions of different microbial communities (MID and BK), we analyzed the samples from the wall paintings in one of the two mausoleums of the Southern Tang Dynasty with metagenomics method. The result showed totally 55 phyla and 1729 genera were detected in the mural paintings. The two microbial community structure were similar with the dominance of Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria and Cyanobacteria. However, the species abundance presented a significant difference between two communities at genus level --- MID is Lysobacter, Luteimonas are predominant in MID while Sphingomonas and Streptomyces are popular in BK, which is partially attributed to the different substrate materials of murals. As a result, the two communities presented the different metabolic patterns that MID community was mainly participated in the formation of biofilm as well as the degradation of exogenous pollutants while the BK was predominantly related to the photosynthesis process and biosynthesis of secondary metabolites. Taken together, these findings indicated the effect of environmental factor on the taxonomic composition and functional diversity of the microbial populations. The installation of artificial lighting needs to be considered carefully in the future protection of cultural relics.
Different evolutionary patterns of TIR1/AFBs and AUX/IAAs and their implications for the morphogenesis of land plants
Authors: Su Liyao , Zhang Tian , Yang Bin , Dong Tianyu , Liu Xiaoyu , Bai Yibo , Liu Hui , Xiong Jingsong , Zhong Yan , Cheng Zong-Ming
Published: May 2023

Background

The plant hormone auxin is widely involved in plant growth, development, and morphogenesis, and the TIR1/AFB and AUX/IAA proteins are closely linked to rapid auxin response and signal transmission. However, their evolutionary history, historical patterns of expansion and contraction, and changes in interaction relationships are still unknown.

Results

Here, we analyzed the gene duplications, interactions, and expression patterns of TIR1/AFBs and AUX/IAAs to understand their underlying mechanisms of evolution. The ratios of TIR1/AFBs to AUX/IAAs range from 4:2 in Physcomitrium patens to 6:29 in Arabidopsis thaliana and 3:16 in Fragaria vesca. Whole-genome duplication (WGD) and tandem duplication have contributed to the expansion of the AUX/IAA gene family, but numerous TIR1/AFB gene duplicates were lost after WGD. We further analyzed the expression profiles of TIR1/AFBs and AUX/IAAs in different tissue parts of Physcomitrium patens, Selaginella moellendorffii, Arabidopsis thaliana and Fragaria vesca, and found that TIR1/AFBs and AUX/IAAs were highly expressed in all tissues in P. patens, S. moellendorffii. In A. thaliana and F. vesca, TIR1/AFBs maintained the same expression pattern as the ancient plants with high expression in all tissue parts, while AUX/IAAs appeared tissue-specific expression. In F. vesca, 11 AUX/IAAs interacted with TIR1/AFBs with different interaction strengths, and the functional specificity of AUX/IAAs was related to their ability to bind TIR1/AFBs, thus promoting the development of specific higher plant organs. Verification of the interactions among TIR1/AFBs and AUX/IAAs in Marchantia polymorpha and F. vesca also showed that the regulation of AUX/IAA members by TIR1/AFBs became more refined over the course of plant evolution.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that specific interactions and specific gene expression patterns both contributed to the functional diversification of TIR1/AFBs and AUX/IAAs.
Clinical epidemiology and outcomes of patients with gastric intestinal metaplasia in the Los Angeles County System
Authors: Prakash Preeti , Jain Shailavi , Trieu Harry , Chow Kenneth , Karunasiri Deepthi , Liang Tom , Yung Evan , Mason Holli , Tan Hongying , Tabibian James H.
Published: May 2023

Background

Gastric intestinal metaplasia (GIM) is a precursor to gastric adenocarcinoma (GAC). In the United States, there is no consensus on the utility of surveillance for GIM, and minority populations most affected by GAC are understudied. Our aims were to define clinical and endoscopic features, surveillance practices, and outcomes in patients with GIM in a multicenter safety-net system.

Methods

We identified patients with biopsy-proven GIM between 2016–2020 at the three medical centers comprising Los Angeles County Department of Health Services. Demographics, findings at index esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) first showing GIM, recommended interval for repeat EGD, and findings at repeat EGD were abstracted. Descriptive statistics were performed to characterize our cohort. T-tests and chi-squared (χ2) tests were used to compare patients with and without multifocal GIM.

Results

There were 342 patients with newly-diagnosed biopsy-proven GIM, 18 (5.2%) of whom had GAC at index EGD. Hispanic patients comprised 71.8% of patients. For most patients (59%), repeat EGD was not recommended. If recommended, 2–3 years was the most common interval. During a median time to repeat EGD of 13 months and cumulative follow-up of 119 patient-years, 29.5% of patients underwent at least one repeat EGD, of whom 14% had multifocal GIM not previously detected. Progression to dysplasia or GAC was not detected in any patients.

Conclusion

In a predominantly minority population with biopsy-proven GIM, there was a 5% incidence of GAC on index EGD. Though progression to neither dysplasia nor GAC was detected, there was significant variability in endoscopic sampling and surveillance practices.
The expression of interleukin-1β in patients with chronic hepatitis B treated with pegylated-interferon-alpha combined with tenofovir disoproxil fumarate and monotherapy
Authors: Hu Xiaoxia , Luo Haiying , Tan Guili , Li Yadi , Qin Bo
Published: May 2023

Background

Anti-hepatitis B virus (HBV) treatment uses tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) along with Pegylated-interferon-alpha (Peg-IFN-α), which is more effective than TDF/Peg-IFN-α monotherapy. We have previously shown that interleukin-1beta (IL-1β) is related to the effectiveness of IFN-α treatment in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients. The aim was to investigate the expression of IL-1β in CHB patients treated with Peg-IFN-α combination with TDF and TDF/Peg-IFN-α monotherapy.

Methods

Huh7 cells infected with HBV were stimulated by Peg-IFN-α and/or Tenofovir (TFV) for 24h. A single-center cohort study of prospective recruitment of CHB patients: untreated CHB (Group A), TDF combined with Peg-IFN-α therapy (Group B), Peg-IFN-α monotherapy (Group C), TDF monotherapy (Group D). Normal donors served as controls. The clinical datas and blood of patients were collected at 0, 12, and 24 weeks. According to the early response criteria, Group B and C were divided into two subgroups: the early response group (ERG) and the non-early response group (NERG). Stimulation of HBV-infected hepatoma cells with IL-1β to validate the antiviral activity of IL-1β. To test the blood sample, cell culture supernatant, and cell lysates and to assess the expression of IL-1β and HBV replication levels in various treatment protocols, Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) and quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) were used. SPSS 26.0 and GraphPad Prism 8.0.2 software were used for statistical analysis. P values < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant.

Results

In vitro experiments, Peg-IFN-α plus TFV treatment group expressed higher IL-1β and inhibited HBV more effectively than monotherapy. Finally, 162 cases were enrolled for observation (Group A (n = 45), Group B (n = 46), Group C (n = 39), and Group D (n = 32)), and normal donors (n = 20) were enrolled for control. The early virological response rates of Group B, C, and D were 58.7%, 51.3%, and 31.2%. At 24 weeks, IL-1β in Group B(P = 0.007) and C(P = 0.034) showed higher than at 0 week. In Group B, the IL-1β showed an upward trend at 12w and 24w in the ERG. IL-1β significantly reduced HBV replication levels in hepatoma cells.

Conclusion

The increased expression of IL-1β may enhance the efficacy of TDF combined with Peg-IFN-α therapy in achieving an early response for CHB patients.
Development and validation of the scale for symptom clusters in patients with myasthenia gravis
Authors: Shen Fan , Hu Lu-Hong , Huang Hai-Shan , Li Ling
Published: May 2023

Background

Patients with myasthenia gravis(MG)often experience multiple symptoms concurrently, which can have an adverse effect on their quality of life(QOL). However, a specific, systemic and reliable scale for symptom clusters in MG is lacking.

Aims

To develop reliable assessment scale for symptom clusters in patients with MG.

Design

A cross-sectional descriptive study.

Methods

Based on the unpleasant symptom theory(TOUS), the first draft of the scale was developed through review literature, qualitative interview, and Delphi expert correspondence, the items of the scale were presented and adjusted through cognitive interviews with 12 patients. To conveniently assess the validity and reliability of the scale, a cross-sectional survey was conducted in 283 patients with MG who were recruited from Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, from June to September 2021.

Results

The final symptom cluster scale for patients with MG consisted of 19 items(MGSC-19), with a content validity index ranging from 0.828 to 1.000 for each item and the content validity index was 0.980. Four common variables (ocular muscle weakness, general muscular weakness, treatment-related side effects, and psychiatric problems) were identified by exploratory factor analysis, which explained 70.187% of the total variance. The correlation coefficients between the scale dimension and the overall score ranged from 0.395 to 0.769 (all P < 0.01), while the correlation coefficients between dimensions varied from 0.324 to 0.510 (all P < 0.01). The Cronbach’s alpha, retest reliability, and half reliability were 0.932, 0.845, and 0.837, respectively.

Conclusion

The validity and reliability of MGSC-19 were generally good. This scale can be employed to identify the symptom clusters to help healthcare givers develop individualized symptom management measures for patients with MG.