bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accurate 3D SMLM localization via Vectorial In-situ PSF Retrieval and Aberration Assessment
Authors: Yang Xinxun , Zhu Hongfei , Sun Yile , Wu Hanmeng , Han Yubing , Hao Xiang , Zhou Renjie , Kuang Cuifang , Liu Xu
Published: November 2023

In single-molecule localization microscopy (SMLM), achieving precise localization hinges on obtaining an authentic point spread function (PSF) influenced by system and sample-induced aberrations. Here, we introduce VISPR (Vectorial in-situ PSF retrieval) retrieving precise 3D PSF models considering both system and sample-induced aberrations under SMLM conditions. By employing the theory of vectorial PSF model and maximum likelihood estimation (MLE) phase retrieval, VISPR is capable of reconstructing an accurate 3D PSF model achieving the theoretically minimum uncertainty and accurately reflecting three-dimensional information of single molecules. This capability empowers accurate 3D super-resolution reconstruction in 3D SMLM. Additionally, VISPR applies to low signal-to-noise ratio circumstances and is adept at retrieving high-frequency details of the experimental PSF across an extensive depth range—a challenging feat for alternative approaches. As an effective tool, VISPR enables the quantitative assessment of aberrations induced by the system and sample environment. From the simulations and experiments, we verified the superiority and effectiveness of VISPR. It is essential to highlight that VISPR applies to various SMLM microscope modalities.
Deep Reinforcement Learning Enables Better Bias Control in Benchmark for Virtual Screening
Authors: Shen Tao , Li Shan , Wang Xiang Simon , Wang Dongmei , Wu Song , Xia Jie , Zhang Liangren
Published: November 2023

Virtual screening (VS) has been incorporated into the paradigm of modern drug discovery. This field is now undergoing a new wave of revolution driven by artificial intelligence and more specifically, machine learning (ML). In terms of those out-of-the- box datasets for model training or benchmarking, their data volume and applicability domain are limited. They are suffering from the biases constantly reported in the ML application. To address these issues, we present a novel benchmark named MUBDsyn. The utilization of synthetic decoys (i.e., presumed inactives) is the main feature of MUBDsyn, where deep reinforcement learning was leveraged for bias control during decoy generation. Then, we carried out extensive validations on this new benchmark. First, we confirmed that MUBDsynwas superior to the classical benchmarks in control of domain bias, artificial enrichment bias and analogue bias. Moreover, we found that the assessment of ML models based on MUBDsynwas less biased as revealed by the analysis of asymmetric validation embedding bias. In addition, MUBDsynshowed better setting of benchmarking challenge for deep learning models compared with NRLiSt- BDB. Overall, we have proven that MUBDsynis the close-to-ideal benchmark for VS. The computational tool is publicly available for the easy extension of MUBDsyn.
Drug target Mendelian randomization supports apolipoprotein C3-lowering for lipoprotein-lipid levels reductions and cardiovascular diseases prevention
Authors: Gagnon Eloi , Arsenault Benoit J.
Published: November 2023

Background and aims

Inhibitors of apolipoprotein C-III (apoC3) are currently approved for the reduction of triglyceride levels in patients with Familial Chylomicronemia Syndrome. We used drug target Mendelian randomization (MR) to assess the effect of genetically predicted decrease in APOC3 blood protein levels on cardiometabolic traits and diseases.

Methods

We quantified lifelong reductions in APOC3 blood levels by selecting all genome wide significant and independent (r2<0.1) single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in theAPOC3gene region ±1Mb, from three genome-wide association studies (GWAS) of apoC3 blood protein levels (deCODE, n = 35,378, Fenland, n = 10,708 and ARIC, n = 7,213). We included the largest GWASes on 18 cardiometabolica traits and 9 cardiometabolic diseases as study outcomes.

Results

A one standard deviation lowering in apoC3 blood protein levels was associated with lower triglycerides, apolipoprotein B, density lipoprotein cholesterol, alanine aminotransferase, and glomerular filtration rate as well as higher high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. APOC3 lowering was also associated with lower risk of acute pancreatitis (odds ratio [OR] = 0.91 95% CI=0.82 to 1.00), aortic stenosis (OR = 0.82 95% CI=0.73 to 0.93), and coronary artery disease (OR = 0.86 95% CI=0.80 to 0.93), and was associated with increased parental lifespan (0.06 95% CI=0.03 to 0.09 years). These results were concordant across robust MR methods, the three protein datasets and upon adjustment for APOA1, APOA4 and APOA5 using a multivariable MR framework.

Conclusions

These results provide evidence that apoC3 lowering could result in widespread benefits for cardiometabolic health and encourage the launch of trials on apoC3 inhibition for coronary artery disease prevention.
DNA methylation effects on Van der Woude Syndrome phenotypic variability
Authors: Seaberg Amanda , Awotoye Waheed , Qian Fang , Dunlay Lindsey , Butali Azeez , Murray Jeff , Moreno-Uribe Lina , Petrin Aline
Published: November 2023

OBJECTIVE

Van der Woude Syndrome (VWS) classically presents with combinations of lip pits (LP) and orofacial clefts, with marked phenotypic discordance even amongst individuals carrying the same mutation. Such discordance suggests a possible role for epigenetic factors as phenotypic modifiers. BothIRF6, causal for 70% of VWS cases, andTP63interact in a regulatory loop to coordinate epithelial proliferation and differentiation for palatogenesis. We hypothesize that differential DNA methylation (DNAm) in CpG sites within regulatory regions ofIRF6andTP63are associated with VWS phenotypic discordance.

METHODS

We measured DNAm levels of CpG sites located in the promoter regions ofIRF6andTP63and in anIRF6enhancer element (MCS9.7) in 83 individuals with VWS grouped within 5 phenotypes for primary analysis: 1=CL+/-P+LP, 2=CL+/-P, 3=CP+LP, 4=CP, 5=LP and 2 phenotypes for secondary analysis: 1=any cleft and LP, 2= any cleft without LP. DNA samples were bisulfite converted and pyrosequenced with target-specific primers. Methylation levels were compared amongst phenotypes.

RESULTS

CpG sites in theIRF6promoter showed statistically significant differences in methylation among phenotypic groups in both analyses (P<0.05). Individuals with any form of cleft (Groups 1-4) had significantly higher methylation levels than individuals with lip pits only (Group 5). In the secondary analysis, individuals in Group 1 (cleft+LP) had significantly higher methylation than Group 2 (cleft only).

CONCLUSION

Results indicated that hypermethylation of theIRF6promoter is associated with more severe phenotypes (any cleft +/- lip pits); thus, possibly impacting an already genetically weakenedIRF6protein and leading to a more severe phenotype.
Genomic structures and regulation patterns at HPV integration sites in cervical cancer
Authors: Porter Vanessa L. , O’Neill Kieran , MacLennan Signe , Corbett Richard D. , Ng Michelle , Culibrk Luka , Hamadeh Zeid , Iden Marissa , Schmidt Rachel , Tsaih Shirng-Wern , Chang Glenn , Fan Jeremy , Nip Ka Ming , Akbari Vahid , Chan Simon K. , Hopkins James , Moore Richard A. , Chuah Eric , Mungall Karen L. , Mungall Andrew J. , Birol Inanc , Jones Steven J. M. , Rader Janet S. , Marra Marco A.
Published: November 2023

Human papillomavirus (HPV) integration has been implicated in transforming HPV infection into cancer, but its genomic consequences have been difficult to study using short-read technologies. To resolve the dysregulation associated with HPV integration, we performed long-read sequencing on 63 cervical cancer genomes. We identified six categories of integration events based on HPV-human genomic structures. Of all HPV integrants, defined as two HPV-human breakpoints bridged by an HPV sequence, 24% contained variable copies of HPV between the breakpoints, a phenomenon we termed heterologous integration. Analysis of DNA methylation within and in proximity to the HPV genome at individual integration events revealed relationships between methylation status of the integrant and its orientation and structure. Dysregulation of the human epigenome and neighboring gene expression inciswith the HPV-integrated allele was observed over megabase-ranges of the genome. By elucidating the structural, epigenetic, and allele-specific impacts of HPV integration, we provide insight into the role of integrated HPV in cervical cancer.
Investigation of Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Activity ofTephromela atraLichen and its Chemical Isolates, α-Alectoronic Acid and α-Collatolic Acid
Authors: Alzebair Awad , Yilmaz Cankiliç Meral , Avan İlker , Candan Mehmet
Published: November 2023

Lichens and their secondary metabolites are of particular interest as they can be used as an alternative to synthetic drugs in the treatment of various diseases. The present study was carried out to investigate in vitro antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of acetone, dichloromethane, petroleum ether, and methanol extracts of the lichenTephromela atraand its major metabolites. α-alectoronic acid and α-collatolic acid were identified as bioactive substances in the lichenTephromela atra. The antibacterial activity was investigated using the disk diffusion method and the minimum inhibitory concentrations were determined against eleven bacterial species, nine fungal species, and four yeast species using broth microdilution method. The antioxidant activity of the methanol extracts ofTephromela atrawas measured by the free radical scavenging ability using the DPPH method. The extracts of α-alectoronic acid and α-collatolic acid showed significant inhibitory activity against most of the tested bacteria, especially the lowest MIC values of the two acids forBacillus subtilis. Furthermore, the antioxidant activity was determinedin vitroby measuring the radical scavenging capacity of the extracts on DPPH. The methanol extracts showed significant antioxidant activity and high DPPH scavenging activity at all concentrations. The results indicate that the extracts ofTephromela atraand the natural products obtained can be used as a source of antimicrobial and antioxidant agents in the pharmaceutical industry.

HIGHLIGHTS

The present study determines the antibacterial and antifungal activities of theTephromela atra, lichen extracts, and its isolated major constituents (α-alectoronic acid and α-collatolic acid), as well as evaluates the antioxidant capacity.

Although there are some studies on α-alectoronic acid and α-collatolic acid, isolated in different lichens, there is no study on the biological activity and antioxidant capacity of lichenTephromela atra.

The MIC values of isolates were evaluated against a broad range of microorganisms including eleven species of bacteria, nine species of fungi, and four species of yeasts.

α-Alectoronic and α-collatolic acid extracts showed significant inhibitory activity against most of the tested bacteria, especially the lowest MIC values of both acids for Bacillus subtilis.

Our results provide a future perspective thatTephromela atraextracts and the isolated metabolites might be used as effective antimicrobial and antioxidant agents in pharmaceutical areas.

Graphical Abstract
Heterozygous missense variant inGLI2impairs human endocrine pancreas development
Authors: Mueller Laura M. , Isaacson Abigail , Wilson Heather , Salowka Anna , Gong Maolian , Raile Klemens , Spagnoli Francesca M.
Published: November 2023

Missense variants are the most common type of coding genetic variants. Their functional assessment is fundamental for defining any implication in human diseases and may also uncover genes that are essential for human organ development. Here, we applied CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing on human iPSCs to study a heterozygous missense variant inGLI2identified in a paediatric hyperglycaemic patient and family members. GLI2 is a primary mediator of the Hedgehog pathway, which regulates pancreatic β-cell development in mice. However, neither mutations inGLI2nor Hedgehog dysregulation have been reported as cause or predisposition to diabetes. A set of isogenic iPSC lines harbouring the missense variant were studied for their ability to differentiate into pancreatic β-like cells. Interestingly, iPSCs carrying the missense variant showed altered GLI2 transcriptional activity and impaired endocrine differentiation. Collectively, our findings underscore an essential role for GLI2 in human endocrine development and identify a novel variant that predisposes to diabetes.
Effects of different diets on thermal tolerance in the silkworm, Bombyx mori
Authors: Wang Yuanfei , Zhang Xiaoxia , Tian Chao , Guo Xiqian , Shu Qilong , Gu Haoyi , Feng Piao , Li Fanchi , Li Bing
Published: November 2023

The survival of species is negatively impacted by the increased frequency and intensity of high‐temperature episodes caused by increased global warming. Thermal tolerance can influence population size and the geographic distribution of species, which translates into species‐wide responses to climate and affects interactions between communities of species. The silkworm, Bombyx mori (L.) (Lepidoptera: Bombycidae), is an ectotherm and an internationally recognized model insect for studying sensitivity to the environment. In the present study, we investigated the effects of different diets on the thermal tolerance of silkworm. As such, it was identified that silkworms reared on an artificial diet in instars I–III and mulberry leaves in instar IV (referred as the AM group) exhibited faster weight gain and higher antioxidant enzyme activity at 35 °C, whereas silkworms reared only on mulberry leaves (referred as the ML group) exhibited upregulated transcript levels of key genes regulating antioxidant enzyme signaling pathways including Akt, CncC, and keap1, significantly increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, and severely impaired midgut activity at 35 °C. Thus, the AM group presented stronger thermal tolerance. These findings suggest that diet can affect the thermal tolerance of silkworm. This research improved our understanding of the molecular, biochemical, and physiological changes caused by thermal stress and laid the groundwork for future research regarding the mechanism underlying thermal tolerance. Furthermore, this study provides an important reference for the conservation of biodiversity in the context of global warming.
The effect of augmented reality on preoperative anxiety in children and adolescents: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Chamberland Cindy , Bransi Myriam , Boivin Ariane , Jacques Sandra , Gagnon Joël , Tremblay Sébastien
Published: November 2023

Background and Aims

Virtual reality has been shown to be an effective non‐pharmacological intervention for reducing anxiety of pediatric patients. A newer immersive technology, that of augmented reality, offers some practical advantages over virtual reality, and also seems to show beneficial effects on anxiety. The main objective of this study was to determine whether augmented reality could reduce preoperative anxiety in pediatric patients undergoing elective day surgeries. A secondary outcome was to document the level of satisfaction from pediatric patients toward augmented reality intervention.

Methods

Children and adolescents aged between 5 and 17 years old scheduled for elective day surgery under general anesthesia were randomly divided into two groups. Patients in the control group received standard care, whereas patients in the augmented reality group were accompanied by two virtual characters who taught them relaxation techniques and provided emotional and informational support. Anxiety was measured at the time of admission and at the time of induction using the short version of the modified Yale Preoperative Anxiety Scale.

Results

The analysis included 37 pediatric patients in the augmented reality group and 64 in the control group. Anxiety scores were statistically significantly lower in the augmented reality group than those in the control group at the time of admission (median difference [95% CI]: 6.3 [0–10.4], p = .01), while no difference was observed between groups at the time of induction (median difference [95% CI]: −4.2 [−5.2–4.2], p = .58). Most patients in the augmented reality group wished to wear the glasses again and reported to be very satisfied with the intervention.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this study is the first large randomized controlled trial to provide empirical evidence of reduction in anxiety for children and adolescents using augmented reality prior to induction of general anesthesia.
Buffering national welfare states in hard times: The politics of EU capacity‐building in the social policy domain
Authors: Miró Joan , Kyriazi Anna , Natili Marcello , Ronchi Stefano
Published: November 2023

The EU has traditionally influenced the social and employment policies of Member States through regulation, leaving redistribution to national welfare states. The latter have, however, been gradually weakened by global socioeconomic change and by the expansion of EU market integration. A series of crises over the last 15 years made a bad situation worse: the longue durée erosion of the capacity of European welfare states has morphed into acute social aftershocks, especially in peripheral countries. After the austerity reflex in the early 2010s, the EU introduced new policy instruments with market‐correcting rationales that go beyond the regulatory approach. This article revisits the creation and functioning of four of these instruments that represent EU‐level capacity‐building in the social policy domain: the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, the Youth Guarantee, the Just Transition Fund and SURE (the temporary Support to mitigate Unemployment Risks in an Emergency). We argue that the EU increasingly provides ‘buffer mechanisms’ to support stressed national welfare states in tasks they would otherwise be unable to accomplish, and we identify the political factors that drive the expansion of this ‘buffering’ logic in EU social policy.
Soils and Carbon Pools on the Shungite Rocks of South Karelia under Different Types of Land Use
Authors: Dubrovina I. A. , Moshkina E. V. , Tuyunen A. V. , Genikova N. V. , Karpechko A. Yu. , Medvedeva M. V.
Published: November 2023

The azonal organo-accumulative soils (Umbrisols) on shungite rocks and the effect of land use on their properties and ecosystem carbon stock have been studied. The changes in soil profile morphology, main agrochemical and microbiological characteristics of the upper horizons, Corg and Cmic stocks in the 100-cm soil layer, and the structure of carbon pools are analyzed. Pine forest (control), arable land, hayfield, young alder stand, and middle-aged mixed forest are examined. In contrast to zonal soils, a change in land use does not considerably transform the properties of shungite soils. The removal of stones has the greatest effect, leading to the formation of developed arable horizons. The soils are characterized by highly skeletal shallow weakly differentiated profile, low bulk density, and pH close to neutral. A wide range of the Corg content (1.6 to 11.7%) results from a heterogeneous composition of the parent rock. Agricultural development contributes to the accumulation of exchangeable bases and available potassium and phosphorus, the contents of which are initially elevated in shungite soils. Characteristic of all examined sites is a high rate of organic matter mineralization (C/N ratio ≤17). A low Cmic content (84–245 mg C/kg) is recorded in the soils, which is explainable with a low availability of the substrate determined by a lithogenic nature of carbon and increased concentrations of heavy metals and lanthanides in shungite rocks. Soil Corg stock varies in the range of 17–251 t C/ha and Cmic stock, of 6–43 g C/m2. The total ecosystem carbon stock is the highest in hayfield (259 t C/ha) and lowest in young forest (74 t C/ha). The total carbon stock in the arable sites, middle-aged forest stand, and control forest is within 169–211 t C/ha.
Attitude to future and attitude to disease in adolescents with insulin-dependent diabetes
Authors: Kislykh Anna A. , Ralnikova Irina A.
Published: November 2023

Background. Te study relevance is due to the high prevalence of diabetes mellitus among children and adolescents, on the one hand, and on the other hand — to the important role of the attitudes towards the disease and the future life in their compliance behavior and efective compensation for the disease. Objective. To study the features of attitudes towards the future, attitudes towards the disease and their relationship in adolescents with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitusь(type 1). Methods. “Multidimensional scale of attitude to the future” by V. Kalster and “Type of attitude to the disease” by A. Lichko and N. Ivanova. For statistical data processing, Pearson’s parametric correlation analysis and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) were used. Sample. Te study involved 80 respondents with diabetes aged 12 to 15 years (55% — female). Results. Te study identifed the most pronounced types of attitudes towards the disease in adolescents with diabetes mellitus: anosognosic, neurasthenic, hypochondriacal, apathetic. Te picture of the future of the surveyed adolescents is characterized by weak emotional attractiveness, it seems to them remote and difcult. Adolescents aged 12–13 represent their future to be more difcult compared to adolescents aged 14–15. Te more planned the future seems, the more pronounced the anxiety toward the disease. Te remoteness of the future in time is associated with increased vulnerability. Te perception of the future as imposed from the outside is associated with the search for benefts related to the disease. Te future seen as interesting and useful is associated with the acceptance of the fact of disease. A sense of predestination and the imposed future in adolescents with diabetes is associated with a demonstration of their sufering and experiences. Conclusion. Revealing the prevailing type of attitude towards the disease and the emotional attitude to the future plays a signifcant role in the efective compensation of diabetes in adolescents. Te results of the study have been introduced into the practice of psychological assistance to adolescents with diabetes mellitus and their parents.
A review on the role of gamma-butyrobetaine hydroxylase 1 antisense RNA 1 in the carcinogenesis and tumor progression
Authors: Hu Juan , Liu Jipeng , Zhou Siwei , Luo Hongliang
Published: November 2023

Gamma-butyrobetaine hydroxylase 1 antisense RNA 1 (BBOX1-AS1), located on human chromosome 11 p14, emerges as a critical player in tumorigenesis with diverse oncogenic effects. Aberrant expression of BBOX1-AS1 intricately regulates various cellular processes, including cell growth, epithelial–mesenchymal transition, migration, invasion, metastasis, cell death, and stemness. Notably, the expression of BBOX1-AS1 was significantly correlated with clinical-pathological characteristics and tumor prognoses, and it could also be used for the diagnosis of lung and esophageal cancers. Through its involvement in the ceRNA network, BBOX1-AS1 competitively binds to eight miRNAs in ten different cancer types. Additionally, BBOX1-AS1 can directly modulate downstream protein-coding genes or act as an mRNA stabilizer. The implications of BBOX1-AS1 extend to critical signaling pathways, including Hedgehog, Wnt/β-catenin, and MELK/FAK pathways. Moreover, it influences drug resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma. The present study provides a systematic review of the clinical significance of BBOX1-AS1’s aberrant expression in diverse tumor types. It sheds light on the intricate molecular mechanisms through which BBOX1-AS1 influences cancer initiation and progression and outlines potential avenues for future research in this field.
Impact of breastfeeding during infancy on functional constipation at 3 years of age: the Japan Environment and Children’s Study
Authors: Motoki Noriko , Inaba Yuji , Toubou Hirokazu , Hasegawa Kohei , Shibazaki Takumi , Tsukahara Teruomi , Nomiyama Tetsuo ,   the Japan Environment and Children’s Study (JECS) Group, Kamijima Michihiro , Yamazaki Shin , Ohya Yukihiro , Kishi Reiko , Yaegashi Nobuo , Hashimoto Koichi , Mori Chisato , Ito Shuichi , Yamagata Zentaro , Inadera Hidekuni , Nakayama Takeo , Sobue Tomotaka , Shima Masayuki , Nakamura Hiroshige , Suganuma Narufumi , Kusuhara Koichi , Katoh Takahiko
Published: November 2023

Background

There is a lack of large, nationwide, birth cohort studies in Japan that examine the relationships of initial feeding habits and breastfeeding period duration with offspring functional constipation at 3 years of age. This study assessed the impact of breastfeeding during infancy on early childhood functional constipation.

Methods

The fixed data of 70,078 singleton births from the ongoing Japan Environment and Children’s Study cohort study that commenced in 2011 were used to identify functional constipation as estimated by Rome III at 3 years of age. The exposure variables were breastfeeding period duration until 12 months of age (never, up to 6 months, or ≥ 7 months) as well as breastfeeding status at 1 month and 6 months of age (breastfeeding exclusively, partial breastfeeding, or infant formula feeding only). Multiple logistic regression analysis was employed to search for correlations for functional constipation development with breastfeeding period duration until 12 months of age and breastfeeding status during infancy.

Results

We identified 8,118 toddlers (11.6%) who met the Rome III criteria at 3 years of age. After controlling for potential covariates, a breastfeeding period duration of 7 months or more was inversely related to functional constipation development (≥ 7 months: adjusted odds ratio [OR] [95% confidence interval (CI)] 0.76 [0.65, 0.88] versus never breastfed, P for trend < 0.001). Other initial feeding methods were significantly related to an increased risk of functional constipation as compared with breastfeeding exclusively at 1 month of age (partial breastfeeding: adjusted OR [95% CI] 1.17 [1.11, 1.23], formula feeding only: 1.23 [1.07, 1.40]) and 6 months of age (partial breastfeeding: adjusted OR [95% CI] 1.18 [1.12, 1.24], formula feeding only: adjusted OR [95% CI] 1.42 [1.20, 1.68]).

Conclusion

This large nationwide survey revealed a possible protective effect of a prolonged breastfeeding period duration and early exclusive breastfeeding in infancy on functional constipation at 3 years.
Time to recovery and its determinant factors among patients with COVID-19 in Assosa COVID-19 treatment center, Western Ethiopia
Authors: Kassie Maru Zewdu , Gobena Molalign Gualu , Alemu Yihenew Mitiku , Tegegne Awoke Seyoum
Published: November 2023

Background

The Novel Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has become a global threat. Determining the time to recovery from COVID-19 is intended to assist healthcare professionals in providing better care, and planning logistics. So, the study aimed to identify the factors that affect the time to recovery from COVID-19 for patients treated at Assosa COVID-19 treatment center, Benishangul Gumuz Regional State, Western Ethiopia.

Methods

A retrospective study design was conducted on 334 randomly selected COVID-19 patients at Assosa COVID-19 treatment center from February 2021 to July 2021. The median survival time, Kaplan–Meier survival estimate, and Log-Rank test were used to describe the data and compare the survival time between groups. The study used the Cox PH model to analyze the time to the first recovery of COVID-19 patients, where hazard ratio, p-value, and 95% CI for hazard ratio were used for testing significance. Schoenfeld and Cox-Snell residuals were used for checking the model assumption.

Results

The overall incidence rate was 13.79 per 100 (95% CI: 10.04, 18.95) person-days observations. The median time to recovery was 16 days. At the end of the follow-up, 77.2% of the patients had developed an event of recovery, and the rest 22.8% were censored. The mean age of patients was 45.22 years. Severe COVID-19 patients (AHR = 0.7876, 95% CI: 0.7090, 0.8748), presence of symptoms (AHR = 0.2814, 95% CI: 0.1340, 0.5914), comorbidity (AHR = 0.1627, 95% CI: 0.1396, 0.1897), ≥ 90 oxygen saturation (AHR = 3.2370, 95% CI: 2.161, 4.848), and being older age (AHR = 0.9840, 95% CI: 0.971, 0.9973) were found to have statistically significant association with the time to recovery from COVID-19.

Conclusion

The study concludes that severe COVID-19 patients, male patients, patients having comorbidity, older age, and patients having symptoms as poor prognostic factors of COVID-19 disease and also prolonged recovery time. Therefore, health providers in treatment centers should give strict follow-up and priority to older patients, severe COVID-19 patients, and patients having another co-morbid illness by focusing on respiratory difficulties and underlying pre-existing medical conditions to manage the disease severity and recover quickly.
Strategic directions of sustainable development of the tourism industry
Authors: Tranchenko L. , Yavorska V. , Tereshchuk N.
Published: November 2023

Today, in the conditions of global restructuring and reorientation of economic sectors, the growth of people's needs and motives for tourism is important. Tourism as a branch of the economy is gradually taking leadership positions in many countries of the world, as well as in Ukraine in the future. Therefore, we have significant unrealized human, natural-resource, historical-cultural, tourist-recreational and scientific-technical potential, a good geographical location, and a favorable climate. Also, the peculiarity of the current situation in the country, economic and political instability, the conditions of the military conflict, insist on the further development of our state, which must necessarily include the creation of conditions for the development of the tourism industry.

At the same time, the formation of a highly developed tourism industry and its integration into the world market of tourist services are connected with the need to solve acute socio-economic problems and attract international experience. The article reveals that the phenomenon of the 21st century. determine today - the hospitality industry, which has become one of the leading directions of socio-economic activity. It has been proven that this is the business of the 21st century. which contributes to the creation of new jobs, the search for methods of increasing the competitiveness of enterprises at the global level, the popularization of the country on the international market of services and, as a result, raising the level of the national economy.

However, in recent years, the tourism industry in Ukraine has been in a state of stagnation, therefore, the determination of factors influencing the development of the hospitality industry is relevant, because with the help of the acquired knowledge, it is possible to prevent the degradation of one of the most promising branches of international business. The article examines the influence of factors on the sustainable development of the tourism industry, economic studies of the potential opportunities of this industry within the general strategy of the socio-economic development of the world in general and Ukraine in particular.
Characteristic Analysis of the Response Mechanics of Asymmetric High-rise Buildings Subjected to Transverse Wind Loads Considering Second-order Vibration Patterns
Authors: Zuo Xin , Liu Die , Xu Ze
Published: November 2023

The share of high-rise structures in China is growing as a response to the ordinary human wishes of today, such as high-rise accommodations and high-altitude enjoyment facilities. Because of the different traits of high-rise buildings, it is critical to find out about the load response and mechanical traits of high-rise buildings. In this paper, first of all, from the aerodynamic modeling experimental methods on the basis of three-dimensional wind-induced vibration of high-rise structures, high-rise buildings, the side-strain combination of the proposed simple and calculation formula, the basic characteristics of three-dimensional wind-induced vibration of a systematic study. The modal pushover evaluation technique is then used to analyze the elasticity and plasticity of the high-rise structure, and it is counseled that the higher-order vibration sample has a vital effect on the seismic resistance of the structure. Finally, a calculation principle of the mechanical response of high-rise construction subjected to transverse wind load thinking about the second-order vibration mode is given, and the outcomes exhibit that the Contribution of the second-order vibration mode to the dynamic displacement in the winding course of high-rise construction is inside 2%. However, the most Contribution to the acceleration response can attain 18%.
Philosophy of Body: Emodiment and Spatiality
Authors: Godwins Jude
Published: November 2023

The issue of human existence is not a question of reason but a matter of one’s relation to one’s body (Leib). Studies on laughing and crying as well as clinical studies reveal human existence is the problem of how being body (Leibsein) and having body are harmonized in certain life situations (Plessner, 1970, 37). They show how human existence is not a question of human reason but a matter of one’s relation to one’s body. For Plessner this indicates a new way of defining reason. Reason would now mean how one relates to one’s body and to one’s environment. The human being consists of the unity of the centric and the eccentric dimensions of human existence. It boils down to the relationship between being body and having body. The phenomena of laughing and crying show how man’s existence consists in the attempt to balance these two existential arts of being and having. Plessner shows that laughing and crying are answers to crises of human behaviour. They are reactions to border situations. Laughing answers to the blockade that one experiences when stimuli to action become irrevocably equivocal. Crying reacts to the behavioural blockade one experiences when one and things no longer relate to each other. When one finds oneself incapable of establishing a relationship to a certain situation because the surrounding things have lost their meaningful links to one another and so no longer make sense to one, one loses one’s ability to act. The human body reacts with laughing and crying to behavioural crises and offers bodily answers to boundary situations. This seems to reveal how our existence could be a matter of our relationship to our body rather than a question of abstract reason. Man, unlike the animal, can withdraw from his embodied, spatial existence and say “I” to himself. This is demonstrative of how his situation in the world is (one of) a mediated immediacy. By means of his Leib, man has immediate contact with the things in his Umwelt (Plessner, 1970, 41). The "immanence of consciousness" carries out its duty of revealing reality through the intertwining activity of receding and residing, engaging and disengaging, remoteness and nearness.  Only through the body’s mediateness and only as Leib (lived-body, living body, inner life) can man be with things, seeing and acting. The positional character of man’s life is man’s mode of relating to his surroundings (Plessner, 1970, 42). Man’s possibility of “controlling nature objectively in knowing and doing” has its roots in the Leib’s mediated immediacy. Mediated immediacy in turn comes from our eccentric position, and our eccentric position decides how we relate to our body as positional and situational beings.
The Effectiveness of Radio Talk Shows by UNICEF Ethiopia in Increasing Knowledge and Changing Attitudes and Behaviors Around Child Marriage, Female Genital Mutilation, and Gender Equality
Authors: Ahmed Haithar , Westering Jolanda Van , Shikur Zemzem , Terefa Fikereselam Getinet , Challa Andinet , Sharma Rachana , Aika Mona , Brooks Andrew , Sani Massimiliano , Maksud Nankali , Akullu Harriet , Mabirizi Joseph
Published: November 2023

Female genital mutilation (FGM), child marriage (CM), and gender inequality are some practices that are discriminatory and abusive to women and deny them the potential to live better and more inclusive lives. UNICEF in collaboration with other partners have initiated radio talk shows (RTS)in SNNP, Oromia, Somali, and Afar regions with the aim of addressing these issues. This evaluation study assessed the effectiveness of these shows on these matters. The study used a cross-sectional survey approach blended with key informant interviews to interrogate the issue at hand. A stratified cluster sampling method was used to identify 458 subjects to participate in the study. The study found that not many people have been reached by the radio talk shows. Those reached had acquired knowledge/enlightenment and attitude change that is positive towards lowering cases of FGM, CM, and gender inequality. The study thus found radio talk shows to be effective in increasing knowledge and attitude that could bring about social behavior change. It was recommended that UNICEF to scale up RTS into unreached areas to expand the reach hence the impact of the shows on FGM, CM, and gender equality.
The Role of Audience Monitoring Surveys (AMS) In Strengthening Radio Talk Shows (RTS) By UNICEF Ethiopia on Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and Child Marriage Programs
Authors: Ahmed Haithar , Westering Jolanda Van , Shikur Zemzem , Terefa Fikereselam Getinet , Challa Andinet , Sharma Rachana , Aika Mona , Brooks Andrew , Sani Massimiliano , Maksud Nankali , Akullu Harriet , Mabirizi Joseph
Published: November 2023

Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and child marriage (CM) are some of the worst harmful practices rampant in Ethiopia. Population Media Center-Ethiopia (PMC-E), in partnership with UNICEF and UNFPA, have been broadcasting radio talk shows (RTS) in select regions of the country to address these issues. The main objective of this study was to establish the popularity and relevance of these shows in addressing the issue of FGM and CM. Specific objectives were establishing respondent awareness of the shows, analyzing the knowledge gained from the issues raised in the shows, establishing the convenience of RTS broadcasting times to listeners, and offering suggestions for improvement. The study used a cross-sectional population-based household survey design in which men and women aged 15 – 49 years were interviewed in two phases. A total of 860 respondents in Phase I and 741 in Phase II were interviewed using questionnaires. Data was analyzed descriptively. Findings show that the reach of RTS was not good, attributable to lack of access to radio, mobile phone, or/and lack of electricity or time to listen to the shows. The content, time and presenter skills and creativity were convenient to listeners and the popular topics discussed were FGM, CM, and gender equality. There was a significant difference between people who listened to the shows and those who didn’t in regard to understanding FGM and CM issues. The study recommends government of Ethiopia subsidize the cost of radios purchased by people in target areas as well as promote the use of alternative media to present topics discussed in the RTS.
An Archival Examination of Gender-Specific Terminology in Public and Private Sector Collective Bargaining Agreements
Authors: Hillstead Coy
Published: November 2023

Organizations and labor unions are at the crossroads of transformational change in workplace demographics.  In increasing numbers, female workers are entering fields and occupations that have historically been primarily occupied by male workers.  However, despite these shifts in workplace demographics, many collective bargaining agreements (CBA’s) are outdated with the use of gender-specific terminologies which are rooted in the historic industrial workplace and contain terminology implicating a workplace and occupation only held by male workers.  This article examined the frequency with which such gender-specific terminology is used in both public and private sector CBA’s.  Additionally, the article also offers recommendations for both organizations and labor unions with respect to terminology changes in their CBAs.  Failure to adapt and modify such language may reflect a lack of inclusion by both organizations and labor unions with respect to their employees and members.
Improving Employee Engagement Through HRM Practices in Public Hospitals
Authors: Ma'arof Rabiatul Adawiyah , Rashid Umi Kartini , Nasuredin Juzaimi
Published: November 2023

The objective of this study is to examine the relationship between Human Resource Management (HRM) practices and employee engagement within the context of nurses in public hospitals in Malaysia. Prior studies have investigated several factors that influence employee engagement in Malaysia. However, the present study specifically concentrates on examining the relationship between HRM practices and employee engagement. The study encompassed a sample of 330 nurses employed in public hospitals in Malaysia. Data analysis was performed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 25. The study revealed that the implementation of three specific HRM practices, namely career development, employee participation, and training and development, had a positive and significant effect on employee engagement. The findings have the potential to offer useful insights to decision-makers within healthcare organizations in Malaysia. Specifically, these insights can inform the development of effective HRM strategies aimed at enhancing employee engagement among nurses. Moreover, this study offers suggestions for future research and recommendations for the authorities to strengthen human resource policies pertaining to the healthcare sector in Malaysia.
The Need to Train and Educate Employees and Managers to Drive Self-Transformation and Disconnection From Digital Technology
Authors:   Universidad Jaume I, Trujillo Pons Francisco
Published: November 2023

All workers, but especially managers in charge and managers, must be trained and made aware of the risks of computer fatigue and the need to exercise the right to digital disconnection. In this way, an important step will be taken to change the business culture and climate and thus promote the well-being of workers. If managers and managers hardly disconnect from technology, hardly will their collaborators. In short, both one and the other must be aware of the physical psychosocial risks of not disconnecting after a day's work or during permits, vacations or temporary disabilities. Without a doubt, the computer fatigue that the Spanish legislator incorporated at the end of 2018 is the most serious psychosocial risk that the position with command and the worker can suffer. To avoid it, training and awareness actions are essential to clarify the dangers of constant non-connectivity to digital and telematic media.
Basal level of ppGpp coordinates Escherichia coli cell heterogeneity and ampicillin resistance and persistence
Authors: Grucela Paulina Katarzyna , Zhang Yong Everett
Published: November 2023

The universal stringent response alarmone ppGpp (guanosine penta and tetra phosphates) plays a crucial role in various aspects of fundamental cell physiology (e.g., cell growth rate, cell size) and thus bacterial tolerance to and survival of external stresses, including antibiotics. Besides transient antibiotic tolerance (persistence), ppGpp was recently found to contribute to E. coli resistance to ampicillin. How ppGpp regulates both the persistence and resistance to antibiotics remains incompletely understood. In this study, we first clarified that the absence of ppGpp in E. coli (ppGpp0 strain) resulted in a decreased minimal inhibition concentration (MIC) value of ampicillin but, surprisingly, a higher persistence level to ampicillin during exponential growth in MOPS rich medium. High basal ppGpp levels, thus lower growth rate, did not produce high ampicillin persistence. Importantly, we found that the high ampicillin persistence of the ppGpp0 strain is not due to dormant overnight carry-over cells. Instead, the absence of ppGpp produced higher cell heterogeneity, propagating during the regrowth and the killing phases, leading to higher ampicillin persistence. Consistently, we isolated a suppressor mutation of the ppGpp0 strain that restored the standard MIC value of ampicillin and reduced its cell heterogeneity and the ampicillin persistence level concomitantly. Altogether, we discussed the fundamental role of basal level of ppGpp in regulating cell homogeneity and ampicillin persistence.
Improving soya mince recipes in the National School Nutrition Programme in South Africa
Authors: Muller Carmen , van Deventer Maricia Margrit , Pretorius Beulah , Schönfeldt Hettie Carina
Published: November 2023

The National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP) in South Africa provides thousands of needy children with school meals on school days. One, and in some cases 2, of these meals per week are soya based. A review of the NSNP revealed that many children do not eat on those days because they find the soya mince meal unappetising. As the meal served within the NSNP may be the only meal these learners receive during a day, it is essential to ensure learners’ willingness to consume the meal, and, therefore, that the meal is made appetising and nutritious. During visits to 3 schools in the Tshwane district, interviews were conducted with school meal handlers. Information gathered from these sessions was used to develop 4 new recipes that fall within the guidelines and budget of the NSNP. The final recipes were beef bolognaise soya mince, chicken curry soya mince, chilli con carne soya mince and one-pot soya mince biryani. To evaluate the acceptability of these newly developed recipes, a sensory panel of 100 university students that formed part of the NSNP during their schooling years was assembled. The sensory evaluation was done by comparing the existing soya mince meal with the 4 new soya mince recipes. One of the new soya mince meals was found to be the preferred dish and was rated significantly higher in acceptability than the original soya mince meal.
O arqueofuturismo de Guillaume Faye e a Nouvelle Droite (1970-2019)
Authors: Vasconcelos Francisco Thiago Rocha
Published: November 2023

O presente artigo aborda o arqueofuturismo, do intelectual francês Guillaume Faye (1949-2019), um dos expoentes da Nouvelle Droite, corrente de pensamento que busca atualizar os referenciais da extrema direita na Europa desde os anos 1960. O arqueofuturismo é uma das mais radicais propostas desta corrente, e que faz um constante uso do passado e de uma concepção cíclica da história para enfatizar o identitarismo branco e a formação de um Império Europeu (Eurosibéria); o combate à imigração, sobretudo islâmica; e a defesa de sociedades hierárquicas, divididas entre núcleos hiper tecnológicos e núcleos arcaicos. Analisa-se o arqueofuturismo como uma nova forma de utilização da perspectiva da “luta entre raças” e do racismo na história europeia e uma resposta propositiva ao contexto de independência das ex-colônias europeias e da crise do socialismo e da hegemonia liberal-democrática no sentido de uma agenda revolucionária, conservadora e transumanista para uma sociedade neofascista.