bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
INDIANA—In-Network Distributed Infrastructure for Advanced Network Applications
Authors: Ossen Sabra , Musser Jeremy , Dalessandro Luke , Swany Martin
Published: June 2023

Data volumes are exploding as sensors proliferate and become more capable. Edge computing is envisioned as a path to distribute processing and reduce latency. Many models of Edge computing consider small devices running conventional software. Our model includes a more lightweight execution engine for network microservices and a network scheduling framework to configure network processing elements to process streams and direct the appropriate traffic to them. In this article, we describe INDIANA, a complete framework for in-network microservices. We will describe how the two components-the INDIANA network Processing Element (InPE) and the Flange Network Operating System (NOS)-work together to achieve effective in-network processing to improve performance in edge to cloud environments. Our processing elements provide lightweight compute units optimized for efficient stream processing. These elements are customizable and vary in sophistication and resource consumption. The Flange NOS provides first-class flow based reasoning to drive function placement, network configuration, and load balancing that can respond dynamically to network conditions. We describe design considerations and discuss our approach and implementations. We evaluate the performance of stream processing and examine the performance of several exemplar applications on networks of increasing scale and complexity.
A qualitative investigation into the role of illness perceptions in endometriosis-related quality of life
Authors: Moore Chloe , Cogan Nicola , Williams Lynn
Published: June 2023

Endometriosis is related to adverse quality of life (QoL) and wellbeing outcomes. The way in which endometriosis is perceived by individuals experiencing the condition has not been directly considered, yet illness perceptions (IPs) are predictors of QoL in several chronic conditions. This research aims to gain an understanding of the IPs held by individuals experiencing endometriosis and their impact on QoL. Semi-structured, one-to-one interviews with 30 UK-based participants sought to gain an understanding of participant experiences and perceptions linked to endometriosis. Three themes were constructed through reflexive thematic analysis: a life disrupted; lost sense of self; and complex emotional responses. Largely negative IPs were held by individuals experiencing endometriosis which, along with endometriosis-specific symptoms, fuelled fears for the future and reduced QoL. IP-based interventions may support the QoL of those experiencing endometriosis whilst effective treatment is sought.
Comparison of outcomes of internal fixation and non-operative management of 2-part and 3-part proximal humerus fractures in younger adults
Authors: Cosic Filip , Kirzner Nathan , Edwards Elton , Page Richard , Kimmel Lara , Gabbe Belinda
Published: June 2023

Aims

This study aimed to compare outcomes of internal fixation and non-operative management in younger adults.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was undertaken in patients aged 18–55 with 2-part or 3-part proximal humerus fractures at a Level 1 trauma centre from January 2010 to December 2018. Outcome measures were the Oxford shoulder score (OSS), EQ-5D-5L, and radiological outcomes. Complications recorded included further surgery, loss of position/fixation, and non-union/malunion. Statistical analysis included univariable analysis and multivariable analysis performed using binary logistic regression and linear regression.

Results

A total of 184 eligible patients were included; 99 underwent operative fixation and 85 were managed with sling immobilisation. The mean (SD) age in the operative group was 39.3 ± 10.6 and in the non-operative group was 43.2 ± 10.8 ( p = 0.02). Seventy-seven percent completed a minimum 12-month follow-up (median 3.2 years, IQR 2–6.5 years). Most 3-part fractures were treated surgically (78%), as opposed to 44% of 2-part fractures. All open fractures, all segmental fractures, eight head split fractures (89%), and 12 fracture-dislocations (80%) were treated surgically. There was no difference in mean OSS (43.7 operative vs 42.1 non-operative, p = 0.27), mean EQ-5D-5L utility score (0.81 vs 0.78, p = 0.32) or proportion returned to work (83% vs 75%, p = 0.34). Adjusted for case-mix, there was no difference in OSS (adjusted mean difference 0.24, 95%CI −2.73 to 3.22, p = 0.87) or EQ-5D-5L utility score (adjusted mean difference 0.00, 95%CI −0.06 to 0.07, p = 0.96). The complication rate was high (36% non-operative, 27% operative, p = 0.24). A higher rate of varus malunion was observed in the non-operative group (24.0% vs 41.4%, p < 0.001). Following operative management, 23% underwent subsequent surgery compared with 7% of the non-operative group ( p = 0.002).

Conclusion

In younger adults with proximal humerus fractures no differences in patient reported outcome measures were observed between groups. Operative management was associated with improved radiological outcomes, but a higher rate of subsequent surgery.
Police recruit narratives and publicly oriented vocabularies of motive
Authors: Wozniak Jesse SG , Conti Norman , Doreian Patrick
Published: June 2023

Although who chooses to become a police officer and why they do so is pivotal for understanding policing, few studies explore recruit motivations. We help to fill this research void through analysis of open-ended narratives penned by police recruits during the academy in a large rust belt city explaining why they want to become police officers, supplemented with qualitative follow-up interviews conducted with randomly selected participants. Of the existing studies on police recruit motivation, nearly all use fixed-response surveys of researcher-selected answers. Despite our respondents being completely free to use their own words, their motivations demonstrate a striking similarity to the findings of previous literature. These stated motivations of altruism and community concern also stand in stark contrast to the public behaviors of police. We suggest this consistency in stated motivations and disconnect with public behavior evinces a publicly oriented vocabulary of motive in which police recruits are attempting to voice the “appropriate” reasons for joining the force.
Protonation of gabapentin: Ion mobility spectrometry and computational study
Authors: Tozihi Manijeh , Bahrami Hamed , Zarifian Mohammadreza , Vahedpour Morteza
Published: June 2023

Protonation of gabapentin was studied using corona discharge ion mobility spectrometry with two types of reactant ions at temperature of 200°C. It was found that at elevated temperatures, ionization of gabapentin proceeds via two channels, including the protonation and reactant ion attachment, in the presence of both hydronium and ammonium reactant ions. The effect of the sample concentration on the relative intensity of product ion peaks was also studied. It turned out that in high concentrations, in addition to the protonation of gabapentin, binding of the reactant ion and the formation of proton-bound dimer also occurred, while in low concentrations, the only product of the ionization process is protonated gabapentin. Density functional theory (DFT) with B3LYP and M062X functionals employing the same basis set 6-311++G(d,p) was used to extend the experimental findings. The structures of the several conformers of neutral and protonated gabapentin were obtained. Based on them, topical proton affinity and topical gas-phase basicity of gabapentin were calculated for selected conformers. The attachment of reactant ions to neutral gabapentin and formation of proton-bound dimer were thermodynamically studied.
Fixing bodies and shaping narratives: Epistemic injustice and the responses of medicine and bioethics to intersex human rights demands
Authors: Carpenter Morgan
Published: June 2023

Children with innate variations of sex characteristics (also termed differences of sex development or intersex traits) are routinely subjected to medical interventions that aim to make their bodies appear or function more typically female or male. Many such interventions lack clear evidence of benefit, they have been challenged for thirty years, and they are now understood to violate children’s rights to bodily autonomy and bodily integrity. In this paper I argue that these persist in part due to epistemic injustices and biomedical authority. Epistemic injustices include limited disclosure of current practices, the systemic marginalisation of community voices and psychosocial professionals, and attempts to discredit or misrepresent testimony. Bioethics has largely failed to change medical practice, and sometimes plays a role in perpetuating epistemic injustices. I find that the development of an intersex movement provides opportunities for epistemic justice and liberation by engaging with other disciplines and promoting oversight of medical decision-making. The paper draws particularly on Australian sources, including internationally influential ethical principles.
Hospital Adhering to the Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding Predicts Exclusive Breastfeeding in Latinx Mothers
Authors: Linares Ana Maria , Cartagena Diana , Christoffel Marialda Moreira
Published: June 2023

Introduction: Assessing how well a hospital adheres to the Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding is the key to outlining necessary modifications in mother breastfeeding support. This study aimed to assess Latinx mothers’ perception of how well a hospital adheres to the Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding and its influence on exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) rates at hospital discharge. Methods: Secondary analysis of two longitudinal studies. The combined sample ( N = 74) of Latinx pregnant women residing in the US. We modified, translated, and evaluated reliability of the Questionnaire for the Breastfeeding Mother (QBFM), which was applied to evaluate mothers’ perception of how well a hospital adheres to the Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding. Results: The QBFM obtained a standardized KR-20 of 0.77. Mothers who EBF had higher scores of the QBFM than mothers who used formula during hospitalization. For each point that the QBFM score increased, the likelihood that the mother was EBF at discharge increased by 1.30 times. Conclusion: Mothers’ perceptions of how well a hospital adheres to the Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding were the only significant variable associated with EBF at discharge. The QBFM Spanish version is a valuable instrument that can be used to obtain measurable outcomes and outlines necessary changes after implementing the Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding.
Long-term outcomes of the Woven EndoBridge device for treatment of intracranial aneurysms: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Hassankhani Amir , Ghozy Sherief , Amoukhteh Melika , Bilgin Cem , Kadirvel Ramanathan , Kallmes David F
Published: June 2023

Background

The Woven EndoBridge (WEB) has been specifically developed to manage wide neck bifurcation intracranial aneurysms. A wide range of aneurysm occlusion rates and device-related complications are reported in different papers, and a lack of collective evidence in this regard.

Objective

To clarify the long-term efficacy and safety outcomes of intracranial aneurysm treatment with WEB devices.

Methods

A systematic literature search was performed on PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase databases on April 25, 2023. Considering the eligibility criteria, all the studies reporting the outcomes of the intracranial aneurysm treatment with WEB device at 1 and/or more than 1 year were included. Data elements of interest were extracted and analyzed using R software version 4.2.1.

Results

Twenty-seven articles were included. Complete occlusion rate was 56.85%, 67.10%, and 56.34% at one year, beyond one year, and at/beyond two years of follow-up, respectively. Adequate occlusion rate was 87.11% at one year, 91.16% beyond one year, and 88.87% at/beyond two years of follow-up. WEB compression and aneurysm recurrence rates increased from 17.62% and 0.58% at one year to 42.59% and 18.99% beyond one year of follow-up, respectively. An increase in retreatment rate from 3.45% at one year to 7.15% beyond one year of follow-up was found.

Conclusion

The current study supports the long-term efficacy of WEB devices for the treatment of intracranial aneurysms. However, an increase in WEB compression, aneurysm recurrence, and retreatment rates beyond one year reveals the importance of follow-ups after the first year of WEB placement.
An overview of over-the-counter monograph system in US
Authors: Thakre Riya P , Khokale Anil S , Salunkhe Kishor S
Published: June 2023

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is issuing a final rule establishing additional criteria and procedures by which over-the-counter (OTC) conditions may become eligible for consideration in the OTC drug monograph system. Non-prescription drugs may be marketed legally in the US through the drug application process and the Over-the-Counter Drug Review (OTC drug monograph) procedure. The criteria and procedures cover how OTC medications that were initially marketed in the United States following the start of the OTC drug review in 1972, as well as OTC medications without any prior U.S. marketing experience, can satisfy the legal definition of marketing to a “material extent” and “for a material time” and qualify. In accordance with FDA’s OTC drug monograph standards, if the condition is deemed qualifying, it would be assessed for general recognition of safety and effectiveness. The FDA is also making changes to the OTC medicine monograph processes in order to speed up the processing and add more details to the evaluation. Therefore, this article emphasizes the OTC monograph system and its procedure.
“No filters needed . . .”: A qualitative study exploring sister circles and workplace messages for Black women healthcare professionals during the double pandemic
Authors: Cupid Sherella , Bogues Kneaira
Published: June 2023

Objectives:

To explore the experiences of Black women healthcare professionals during the pandemic in the United States, with a particular focus on those in sister circles.

Design:

This is qualitative research with data from online survey results.

Methods:

A qualitative survey was distributed through listservs and via social media from December 2021–April 2022. The qualitative data were analyzed using a thematic analysis to extract the themes.

Results:

There were 69 respondents, primarily represented in hospitals, dentist offices, and mental health offices. The majority of respondents stated that they had one to three sister circles, with them primarily being formed online. The themes that arose from the meanings of membership in sister circles during the pandemic were (1) sister circles offered them a space to be sane and safe, (2) members received access to professional support, and (3) they are needed. As Black women healthcare professionals, the workplace messages they received were (1) either their workplace provided them with solidarity or (2) made them feel unsafe and undervalued.

Conclusion:

Sister circles provided these Black women healthcare professionals with a space of coping during the pandemic, as well as a site to respond to their workplace burnout.
Assessing the variation in amount of pressure exerted by haemostatic pressure bandages: a volunteer study
Authors: Brzeszczyński Filip , McGhee James , Rust Philippa
Published: June 2023

We assess the range of pressures exerted by haemostatic compression bandages on upper limb arterial injuries. Maintaining a pink hand can act as a safety marker to prevent excessive bandage pressure and avert compression injuries.
Implant-free anatomical reconstruction of thumb metacarpophalangeal joint chronic ulnar collateral ligament injuries
Authors: Elatta Mohamed Abuo , Eltanboly Ahmed , Abououf Alaa
Published: June 2023

A technique is described to treat chronic instability of the metacarpophalangeal joint of the thumb caused by rupture of the ulnar collateral ligament using a palmaris longus tendon graft without implants. Good results were obtained in eight patients.
Direct Democracy in the Hands of the Opposition Under Alternating Ideological Coalitions in Uruguay (1985–2022)
Authors: Antía Florencia , Vairo Daniela
Published: June 2023

Uruguay stands out as an exceptional case for having a vibrant party system, stable democracy, and frequent use of direct democracy mechanisms (MDDs). Previous research has explained the use of MDDs as a means of opposing centre-right governments, but it has failed to explain the subsequent use of these mechanisms during the period of alternation between the major ideological blocs in government after 2005. We make an empirical contribution by describing the practice of direct democracy actions and explaining their fate through a qualitative comparative analysis that assesses how well the theoretical expectations proposed by Altman are borne out in the Uruguayan case in the latest period. We conclude that the politics of direct democracy change when ideological blocs alternate in government and that direct democracy initiatives fail due to the lack of lobbying power, high government approval rates, or non-concurrency of the vote with the presidential election in the context of a positive economic environment.
Bibliometric analysis of medical and health research collaboration between China and ASEAN countries
Authors: Liang Xia , Zhang Ruhao , Wang Shuyun , Hang Ranfeng , Wang Siyuan , Zhao Yajie , Sun Yutong , Huang Zhaoquan
Published: June 2023

Objective

To reveal the characteristics, development trend and potential opportunities of China–ASEAN collaboration in the medical and health field based on bibliometrics.

Methods

Scopus and International Center for the Study of Research Lab (ICSR Lab) was used to analyze the scale, collaboration network and distribution, impact of cooperative papers, collaboration dominance and evolution of the literature on China–ASEAN medical and health collaboration in the Scopus database from 1992 to 2022.

Results

From 1992 to 2022, 19,764 articles on medical and health collaboration between China and ASEAN were filtered for analysis. The number of China–ASEAN collaborations has shown a clear upward trend over the years, indicating a gradually closer and improved collaboration relationship overall. The institutional collaboration network between China and ASEAN countries was obviously clustered, and the network connectivity was limited. The substantial differences between the median and mean values of citation impact of China–ASEAN medical and health research collaboration reflected that the collaboration was ‘less’ but ‘better’. The dominance share of collaboration between China and the main ASEAN countries was fluctuating upward and has become more and more stable after 2004. Most of the China–ASEAN collaboration focused on their own characteristic research topics. In recent years, collaboration in infectious diseases and public health had expanded significantly, while other research topics had maintained in a complementary development trend.

Conclusion

Collaboration between China and ASEAN in the medical and health field has exhibited a progressively closer relationship, and the trend of complementary research has remained stable. However, there are still areas of concern, including the limited scale of collaboration, narrow scope of participation and weak dominance.
Infrastructure at home: Technology, intimacy, and ageing in China
Authors: Chong Gladys Pak Lei
Published: June 2023

This study adopts an ethnographic approach to examine how digital technology used at home ‐ mobile platforms and smart devices ‐ shaped the intimacy of ageing adults (aged 55 to 65) in Beijing. China’s fast-ageing population and its ambition to be a high‐tech superpower are some of the conditions that have necessitated the mobilisation of governmental ideas that link population management to technology development. This study built on Ara Wilson’s (2016) essay “The Infrastructure of Intimacy” by including critical infrastructure studies to examine how practices of intimacy are translated and operationalised through daily technology use at home. Data analysis was conducted using three frameworks: (1) making intimate: familiarising and reconnecting; (2) materialising intimacy: gifts, bonding, and avoidance; and (3) self‐intimacy (re)structured: choices, self‐love, and empowerment. The ethnographic data unveils the pivotal role of intimacy in the use of technologies and platforms by the ageing informants in managing their relationships between the self and their family and social relations. With its profound functionality in broadening the practices of intimacy, such as strengthening self-worth and self‐realisation, the daily use of digital technology at home also made it easier for the ageing informants in this study to deter, replace, and lessen their need for physical interactions. The findings suggest that normalising older adults’ active use of technology at home will further advance the technologisation of Chinese society while enhancing intimacy in the ageing population.
Surgical Treatment of Pediatric Refractory Ventricular Tachycardia Originating From a Left Ventricular Rhabdomyoma
Authors: Sicim Hüseyin , Altunyuva Kaan , Özdemir Fatih , Çiçek Murat , Aydemir Numan Ali
Published: June 2023

Cardiac tumors are very rare in children, and echocardiography is very important in their detection. The clinical presentation can vary greatly depending on arrhythmia or obstruction. One of the most important factors determining the surgical approach is the clinical process. In this case report, we report the surgical treatment of a rhabdomyoma that caused refractory ventricular tachycardia.
Influence Factors for Family Physician Contract Services’ Motivation in China: An Empirical Analysis From Jiangsu Province
Authors: Xu Xinglong , Zhao Lingqing , Liu Jiajie , Ampon-Wireko Sabina
Published: June 2023

Since the medical reform implemented by the Chinese government in 2016, more attention has been paid to family doctors and the key role they play in safeguarding citizens’ health. Therefore, it is necessary to explore the factors that affect the motivation of family doctors to provide contracted services. In this study, factors influencing the motivation of family doctors to provide contract services are divided into intrinsic motivation and extrinsic motivation. Intrinsic motivation includes family doctors’ sense of professional belonging, occupational motivation, and occupational efficacy, while extrinsic motivation includes the attraction, support, and promotion of contract services, as well as pressure from government and community health service institutions. And the environment in which family doctors operate during their contracted services. The questionnaire was designed with a sample size of 536 family doctors in Jiangsu Province using logical reasoning method. Stata16 software is used for empirical analysis using linear regression method. The empirical analysis is conducted using the linear regression method. A family physician’s motivation is categorized into two perspectives: intrinsic and extrinsic motivation. Significant findings unveiled that; (i) Family physicians’ sense of professional belonging ( β = .026, p < .01), professional motivation ( β = .076, p < .05), and professional efficacy ( β = .148, p < .01) had a significant positive on their contract services, (ii) Promotion ( β = .085, p < .01), the attractiveness of family physicians’ contract services ( β = .092, p < .01) and contract service support ( β = .137, p < .01) showed a positive effect, whereas (iii) intense pressure ( β = −.079, p < .01) experienced by family physicians could negatively affect their contract services. Among the intrinsic and external factors, only intense pressure negatively affects family physician contracted services. This finding indicates that decision-makers should adopt feedback mechanisms at the various health levels to encourage workers to measure motivational levels and output themselves.
Surface electromyography and kinetics during step descent in individuals with low-level chronic or recurrent low back pain and lumbar instability
Authors: Poulsen Kim Mogensbæk , Cabell Lee
Published: June 2023

Background: Most biomechanical studies in populations with low back pain have examined level gait or stationary tasks. This study investigates step negotiation in a subgroup of individuals with low back pain. Methods: Surface electromyography and kinetic data were collected in 22 subjects. Results: Vertical ground reaction force rise-time was slower in participants with low back pain when leading with the left leg and they had delayed muscle onsets of the right gluteus medius, left rectus abdominis with left stepping, right lumbar erector spinae with right stepping but earlier onset with left stepping. EMG activations were higher in the participants with low back pain in the right lumbar erector spinae, right gluteus medius, and left gluteus medius in both left and right steps. Conclusion: The results of this study show that the participants with low back pain have higher muscle activity levels, delayed muscle onsets, and slower weight acceptance.
Dietary pattern association with CD4 cells count in patients living with human immunodeficiency virus: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Keshani Parisa , Sarihi Sorour , Parsaie Narges , Joulaei Hassan
Published: June 2023

Background:

Considering contradictory reports about the impact of dietary pattern on CD4 cell count in previous studies and the potential importance of diet on the immune system, this study aimed to assess the association between dietary patterns and CD4 count among HIV-infected patients.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study was conducted among HIV-infected patients aged 18–60 who registered in the referral Voluntary Counseling and Testing Center of Shiraz, Iran. The principal component analysis identified nutritional patterns and factors. The association between the score of the dietary patterns and CD4 count was considered in two categories of CD4 more/less than 500 and using backward logistic regression after adjusting for confounders.

Results:

A total of 226 participants were included in the analysis. CD4 was significantly lower in males ( p < 0.001). Participants with illegal drug use ( p < 0.001), HCV ( p = 0.001), and HBV ( p < 0.001) had lower serum CD4. Four extracted dietary patterns were a Plant-rich diet, Healthy animal-based proteins, a Western diet, and Affordable calorie and protein patterns. There was an association between CD4 and Western diet patterns in the best model in which age, gender, weight, and HBV were included. Each unit increase in Western diet score increased the odds of CD4 less than 500 by 57% (OR = 1.57; CI 95% 1.06–2.34, p = 0.02).

Conclusion:

Among the four dietary patterns, the Western diet comprising a high intake of refined sugar and grain, saturated and trans fats, and animal protein sources, especially high-fat red meat, had a statistically significant relationship with a decrease in CD4 cell count.
On the Predictive Power of the In-Training Examination for the Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants
Authors: Grabovsky Irina , Henderek Jerusha J. , Luciw-Dubas Ulana A. , Pierce Brent , Campbell Soren , Monroe Katherine S.
Published: June 2023

OBJECTIVES

In-training examinations (ITEs) are a popular teaching tool for certification programs. This study examines the relationship between examinees’ performance on the National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants (NCCAA) ITE and the high-stakes NCCAA Certification Examination.

METHODS

We utilized a mixed-methods approach in our study. Before estimating the models for the predictive validity study, a series of interviews with program directors were conducted to discuss the role of the ITE in students’ education. Multiple linear regression analysis was then used to assess the strength of the relationship between the ITE and Certification Examination scores, while considering the percentage of program examinees completed in their anesthesiologist assistant program between their ITE and Certification Examination attempts. Logistic regression analysis was used to estimate the probability of passing the Certification Examination as a function of ITE score.

RESULTS

Interviews with program directors confirmed that the ITE provided a valuable testing experience for students and highlighted the areas where students need to focus. Moreover, both the ITE score and the percentage of the program between exams were deemed statistically significant predictors for Certification Examination scores. The logistic regression model indicated that higher scores on the ITE implied a higher probability of passing the Certification Examination.

CONCLUSION

This research demonstrated the high predictive validity of the ITE examination scores in predicting the Certification Examination outcomes. Together with the proportion of the program covered between exams, the variables explain a significant amount of variability in Certification Examination scores. The ITE feedback helped students assess their preparedness and better focus their studies for the high-stakes certification examination for the profession.
Sociocultural Factors, Religion and Cognition Development: An Integrated View of Psychological Empowerment of Female Entrepreneurs
Authors: Rehman Talat , Basit Asma
Published: June 2023

This research study aims to explore the role of psychological empowerment of female entrepreneurs in the sociocultural context of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. Psychological empowerment and well-being are considered under-researched from the perspective of a female entrepreneur. The study employs the qualitative methodology to generate an understanding of the phenomenon of female entrepreneurship leading to the psychological empowerment of women in Pakistan. Data were collected from Pakistani female entrepreneurs using in-depth interviews. A grounded theory framework was employed to generate the emergent findings. Emerging themes revolve around personality characteristics, gender development, sociocultural support and religion shaping the psychological empowerment of Pakistan female entrepreneurs. The females were also reported to have appreciable competence in managing their businesses. In addition, the findings showed that the females had a greater level of autonomy, independence and freedom to run their businesses. The findings present preliminary evidence that females engaged in entrepreneurial activities feel psychologically empowered. These outcomes provided valuable insight into using entrepreneurship as a strategic tool to empower Pakistani female entrepreneurs. This should contribute to a critical and more distinct understanding of the psychological empowerment of female entrepreneurship in developing economies.
Otological Challenges in Patients With Non-Syndromic Cleft Lip and Palate: A Systematic Review
Authors: James Olutayo , Otoghile Bright , Adamson Olawale O. , Egbunah Uchenna P. , Sabo Vinishe Y. , Adekunle Adegbayi A. , Adeyemo Wasiu L. , Ladeinde Akinola L. , Ogunlewe Olugbenga M.
Published: June 2023

Objectives:

To identify the various otological challenges associated with non-syndromic orofacial clefts, how these problems affect quality of life of patients with orofacial clefts and find out the perspectives and current trends in the management of otological problems.

Design:

We conducted systematic searches for retrospective studies, cross-sectional studies, case-control studies, cohorts’ longitudinal studies and prospective controlled trials in Medline and Google scholar databases. Identified studies were retrieved and assessed for eligibility.

Results:

Thirty-five articles met all inclusion criteria and were selected for qualitative analysis. Twenty-one articles evaluated otological challenges associated with cleft lip and palate, 7 articles evaluated associated quality of life of patients with otological challenges and 9 articles evaluated management of otological challenges. Based on the results from this review, otological challenges including otitis media with effusion, conductive and sensorineural hearing loss are commonly associated with cleft. The result is a reduced quality of life due to their negative effects on intelligibility and eloquence of speech. They can however be managed by various palatoplasty procedures, rapid maxillary expansion, and use of various otological aids performed at an early age.

Conclusion:

The prevalence otological challenges in the cleft population are high and these issues require early management due to their possible effects on quality of life. Hence, there is need to incorporate ear care in the routine management of cleft lip and palate.
Integrative Medicine in the Canadian Medical Profession: Certificate of Added Competence Proposal for Physicians
Authors: Konigsberg Esther
Published: June 2023

Most Canadians use some form of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) and most Canadian physicians are not able to address their patients’ use due to inadequate training. Integrative Medicine (IM) in the medical profession has grown over the last 20 years and is now recognized as a sub-specialty in the United States. Canada is lagging behind. The current state of CAM and IM education for physicians in Canada is described, using the United States’ experience in comparison. The landscape and obstacles for Integrative Medicine for Canadian physicians is reviewed. A case is made for recognition of Integrative Medicine by Canadian Medical Colleges in order to advance this field in Canada.
Antibody-mediated pathogenesis of chronic GVHD through DBY/HLA class II complexes and induction of a GVL effect
Authors: Umino Kento , Morita Kaoru , Ikeda Takashi , Kawaguchi Shin-ichiro , Nagayama Takashi , Ito Shoko , Minakata Daisuke , Ashizawa Masahiro , Yamamoto Chihiro , Hatano Kaoru , Sato Kazuya , Ohmine Ken , Fujiwara Shin-ichiro , Kimura Shun-ichi , Kako Shinichi , Doki Noriko , Ozawa Yukiyasu , Mori Yasuo , Eto Tetsuya , Hiramoto Nobuhiro , Nakamae Hirohisa , Kanda Junya , Ichinohe Tatsuo , Atsuta Yoshiko , Nakasone Hideki , Morishima Satoko , Kanda Yoshinobu
Published: June 2023

Chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) is a multiorgan syndrome with clinical features resembling those of autoimmune diseases. Thus, understanding commonalities in the pathophysiology of cGVHD and autoimmune diseases, such as the presence of disease-risk HLA alleles, is imperative for developing novel therapies against cGVHD. Alloantibodies against H-Y antigens encoded on the Y-chromosome are well-described risk factors for cGVHD in female-to-male transplantation. However, because H-Y antigens generally localize intracellularly in the male reproductive organs, how they emerge at affected organ levels remains elusive. Here, by analyzing nationwide registry data stratified per donor–recipient sex, we identified specific HLA class II alleles that contributed to susceptibility to male cGVHD after transplantation from HLA-identical female siblings (HLA-DRB1∗15:02: hazard ratio, 1.28; 95% confidence interval, 1.03-1.58; P = .025). Coexpression of HLA-DRB1∗15:02 efficiently transported full-length H-Y antigens, especially DBY, to the surface. The presence of alloantibodies against DBY/HLA class II complexes significantly predicted the occurrence of cGVHD (68.8% vs 31.7% at 1 year; P = .002). Notably, the ability of HLA class II molecules to transport and present DBY to alloantibodies was closely associated with the susceptibility of HLA class II alleles to cGVHD. DBY specifically colocalized with HLA class II molecules on the dermal vascular endothelium in cGVHD and provoked complement-dependent cytotoxicity. Moreover, these complexes were observed in some male leukemic cells. Altogether, these findings suggest that vascular endothelial cells facilitate alloantibody-mediated cGVHD and highlight that alloantibodies against DBY/HLA class II complexes could be common targets for cGVHD and a graft-versus-leukemia effect.
Final analysis of the CLL2-GIVe trial: obinutuzumab, ibrutinib, and venetoclax for untreated CLL with del(17p)/TP53mut
Authors: Huber Henriette , Tausch Eugen , Schneider Christof , Edenhofer Simone , von Tresckow Julia , Robrecht Sandra , Giza Adam , Zhang Can , Fürstenau Moritz , Dreger Peter , Ritgen Matthias , Illmer Thomas , Illert Anna Lena , Dürig Jan , Böttcher Sebastian , Niemann Carsten U. , Kneba Michael , Al-Sawaf Othman , Kreuzer Karl-Anton , Fink Anna-Maria , Fischer Kirsten , Döhner Hartmut , Hallek Michael , Eichhorst Barbara , Stilgenbauer Stephan
Published: June 2023

The final analysis of the open-label, multicenter phase 2 CLL2-GIVe trial shows response and tolerability of the triple combination of obinutuzumab, ibrutinib, and venetoclax (GIVe regimen) in 41 previously untreated patients with high-risk chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) with del(17p) and/or TP53 mutation. Induction consisted of 6 cycles of GIVe; venetoclax and ibrutinib were continued up to cycle 12 as consolidation. Ibrutinib was given until cycle 15 or up to cycle 36 in patients not achieving a complete response and with detectable minimal residual disease. The primary end point was the complete remission rate at cycle 15, which was achieved at 58.5% (95% CI, 42.1-73.7; P < .001). The last patient reached the end of the study in January 2022. After a median observation time of 38.4 months (range, 3.7-44.9), the 36-month progression-free survival was 79.9%, and the 36-month overall survival was 92.6%. Only 6 patients continued ibrutinib maintenance. Adverse events of concern were neutropenia (48.8%, grade ≥3) and infections (19.5%, grade ≥3). Cardiovascular toxicity grade 3 occurred as atrial fibrillation at a rate of 2.4% between cycles 1 and 12, as well as hypertension (4.9%) between cycles 1 and 6. The incidence of adverse events of any grade and grade ≥3 was highest during induction and decreased over time. Progressive disease was observed in 7 patients between cycles 27 and 42. In conclusion, the CLL2-GIVe regimen is a promising fixed-duration, first-line treatment for patients with high-risk CLL with a manageable safety profile.
Characterization of plywood made from heat-treated rubberwood veneers bonded with melamine urea formaldehyde resin
Authors: Chotikhun Aujchariya , Kittijaruwattana Jitralada , Lee Seng Hua , Salca Emilia-Adela , Arsyad Wa Ode Muliastuty , Hadi Yusuf Sudo , Neimsuwan Trairat , Hiziroglu Salim
Published: June 2023

The objective of the study is to evaluate the properties of the plywood made from rubberwood veneers thermally treated at various temperatures. Rotary-peeled rubberwood veneers were thermally treated at 160, 170, 180, and 190 °C under 1 bar pressure. 5-ply plywood panels were produced using melamine urea formaldehyde (MUF) resin as binder. Dimensional stability, i.e., water absorption (WA) and thickness swelling (TS) as well as mechanical properties of the plywood were assessed. The results demonstrated that the dimensional stability of the plywood made from thermally treated rubberwood veneers improved as indicated by lower WA and TS values. The reduction in WA and TS values increased along with treatment temperatures. Darkening in the plywood as a result of heat treatment was observed. Meanwhile, heat treatment at 170 °C and 180 °C resulted in plywood with the highest modulus of rupture (MOR), modulus of elasticity (MOE) and shear strength. However, beyond that temperature, the mechanical strength of the plywood started to decline. Based on the findings in this work it appears that heat treatment of rubberwood veneers at temperatures ranging from 160 to 180 °C could have a potential to improve overall properties of plywood panels.
Notch mediates the glycolytic switch via PI3K/Akt signaling to support embryonic development
Authors: Wang Heng , Liang Wenqi , Wang Xuyang , Zhan Yuchun , Wang Wence , Yang Lin , Zhu Yongwen
Published: June 2023

Background

Energy metabolism disorder or insufficient energy supply during incubation will affect the development and survival of avian embryos. Especially, β-oxidation could not provide the continuous necessary energy for avian embryonic development due to the increasing energy demand under hypoxic conditions during the mid–late embryonic stages. The role and mechanism of hypoxic glycolysis replacing β-oxidation as the main source of energy supply for avian embryonic development in the mid–late stages is unclear.

Results

Here, we found that in ovo injection with glycolysis inhibitor or γ-secretase inhibitor both decreased the hepatic glycolysis level and impaired goose embryonic development. Intriguingly, the blockade of Notch signaling is also accompanied by the inhibition of PI3K/Akt signaling in the embryonic primary hepatocytes and embryonic liver. Notably, the decreased glycolysis and impaired embryonic growth induced by the blockade of Notch signaling were restored by activation of PI3K/Akt signaling.

Conclusions

Notch signaling regulates a key glycolytic switch in a PI3K/Akt-dependent manner to supply energy for avian embryonic growth. Our study is the first to demonstrate the role of Notch signaling-induced glycolytic switching in embryonic development, and presents new insight into the energy supply patterns in embryogenesis under hypoxic conditions. In addition, it may also provide a natural hypoxia model for developmental biology studies such as immunology, genetics, virology, cancer, etc.

Graphical Abstract
An open protocol for modeling T Cell Clonotype repertoires using TCRβ CDR3 sequences
Authors: Gurun Burcu , Horton Wesley , Murugan Dhaarini , Zhu Biqing , Leyshock Patrick , Kumar Sushil , Byrne Katelyn T. , Vonderheide Robert H. , Margolin Adam A. , Mori Motomi , Spellman Paul T. , Coussens Lisa M. , Speed Terence P.
Published: June 2023

T cell receptor repertoires can be profiled using next generation sequencing (NGS) to measure and monitor adaptive dynamical changes in response to disease and other perturbations. Genomic DNA-based bulk sequencing is cost-effective but necessitates multiplex target amplification using multiple primer pairs with highly variable amplification efficiencies. Here, we utilize an equimolar primer mixture and propose a single statistical normalization step that efficiently corrects for amplification bias post sequencing. Using samples analyzed by both our open protocol and a commercial solution, we show high concordance between bulk clonality metrics. This approach is an inexpensive and open-source alternative to commercial solutions.
Clonostachys rosea ‘omics profiling: identification of putative metabolite-gene associations mediating its in vitro antagonism against Fusarium graminearum
Authors: Bahadoor Adilah , Robinson Kelly A. , Loewen Michele C. , Demissie Zerihun A.
Published: June 2023

Background

Clonostachys rosea is an established biocontrol agent. Selected strains have either mycoparasitic activity against known pathogens (e.g. Fusarium species) and/or plant growth promoting activity on various crops. Here we report outcomes from a comparative ‘omics analysis leveraging a temporal variation in the in vitro antagonistic activities of C. rosea strains ACM941 and 88–710, toward understanding the molecular mechanisms underpinning mycoparasitism.

Results

Transcriptomic data highlighted specialized metabolism and membrane transport related genes as being significantly upregulated in ACM941 compared to 88–710 at a time point when the ACM941 strain had higher in vitro antagonistic activity than 88–710. In addition, high molecular weight specialized metabolites were differentially secreted by ACM941, with accumulation patterns of some metabolites matching the growth inhibition differences displayed by the exometabolites of the two strains. In an attempt to identify statistically relevant relationships between upregulated genes and differentially secreted metabolites, transcript and metabolomic abundance data were associated using IntLIM (Integration through Linear Modeling). Of several testable candidate associations, a putative C. rosea epidithiodiketopiperazine (ETP) gene cluster was identified as a prime candidate based on both co-regulation analysis and transcriptomic-metabolomic data association.

Conclusions

Although remaining to be validated functionally, these results suggest that a data integration approach may be useful for identification of potential biomarkers underlying functional divergence in C. rosea strains.
Comparative transcriptomic analysis of male and females in the dioecious weeds Amaranthus palmeri and Amaranthus tuberculatus
Authors: Bobadilla Lucas K. , Baek Yousoon , Tranel Patrick J.
Published: June 2023

Background

Waterhemp (Amaranthus tuberculatus (Moq.) Sauer) and Palmer amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri S. Wats.) are two dioecious and important weed species in the world that can rapidly evolve herbicide-resistance traits. Understanding these two species' dioecious and sex-determination mechanisms could open opportunities for new tools to control them. This study aims to identify the differential expression patterns between males and females in A. tuberculatus and A. palmeri. Multiple analyses, including differential expression, co-expression, and promoter analyses, used RNA-seq data from multiple tissue types to identify putative essential genes for sex determination in both dioecious species.

Results

Genes were identified as potential key players for sex determination in A. palmeri. Genes PPR247, WEX, and ACD6 were differentially expressed between the sexes and located at scaffold 20 within or near the male-specific Y (MSY) region. Multiple genes involved with flower development were co-expressed with these three genes. For A. tuberculatus, no differentially expressed gene was identified within the MSY region; however, multiple autosomal class B and C genes were identified as differentially expressed and possible candidate genes.

Conclusions

This is the first study comparing the global expression profile between males and females in dioecious weedy Amaranthus species. Results narrow down putative essential genes for sex-determination in A. palmeri and A. tuberculatus and also strengthen the hypothesis of two different evolutionary events for dioecy within the genus.