bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phenomic landscape and pharmacogenomic implications for HLA region in a Taiwan Han Chinese population
Authors: Chou Wan-Hsuan , Chen Lu-Chun , Wong Henry Sung-Ching , Chao Ching-Hsuan , Chu Hou-Wei , Chang Wei-Chiao
Published: May 2024

Background

The human leukocyte antigen (HLA) genes, exhibiting significant genetic diversity, are associated with susceptibility to various clinical diseases and diverse in drug responses. High costs of HLA sequencing and the population-specific architecture of this genetic region necessitate the establishment of a population-specific HLA imputation reference panel. Moreover, there is a lack of understanding about the genetic and phenotypic landscape of HLA variations within the Taiwanese population.

Methods

We created models for a Taiwanese-specific HLA imputation reference panel. These models were trained with the array genotype data and HLA sequencing data from 845 Taiwanese subjects. HLA imputation was applied for 59,448 Taiwanese subjects to characterize the HLA allele and haplotype frequencies. Additionally, a phenome-wide association study (PheWAS) was conducted to identify the phenotypes associated with HLA variations. The association of the biallelic HLA variants with the binary and quantitative traits were evaluated with additive logistic and linear regression models, respectively. Furthermore, an omnibus test with likelihood-ratio test was applied for each HLA amino acid position in the multiallelic HLA amino acid polymorphisms to compare the difference between a fitted model and a null model following a χ2 distribution of n-1 degree of freedom at a position with n residues. Finally, we estimated the prevalence of adverse drug reactions (ADR)-related HLA alleles in the Taiwanese population.

Results

In this study, the reference panel models displayed remarkable accuracy, with averages of 99.3%, 98.9%, and 99.1% for 2-, 4-, 6-digit alleles of the eight classical HLA genes, respectively. For PheWAS, a total of 18,136 significant associations with HLA variants across 26 phenotypes are identified (p < 5×10-8), highlighting the pleiotropy feature of the HLA region. Among the independent signals, 15 are novel, including the association of HLA-B pos 138 variation with ankylosing spondylitis (AS), and rs9266290 and rs9266292 with allergy. Through an analysis spanning the entire HLA region, we identified clusters of phenotype correlations. Finally, the carriers of pharmacogenomic related HLA alleles, including HLA-C*01:02 (35.86%), HLA-B*58:01 (20.9%), and HLA-B*15:02 (8.38%), were characterized in the Taiwanese general population.

Conclusions

We successfully delivered the HLA imputation for 59,448 Taiwanese subjects and characterized the genetic and phenotypic landscapes of the HLA variations. In addition, we quantified the estimated prevalence of the ADR-related HLA alleles in the Taiwanese population. The developed HLA imputation reference panel could be used for estimation of population HLA allele frequencies, which can facilitate further studies in the role of HLA variants in a wider range of phenotypes in the population.
Neuropathological assessment of the olfactory bulb and tract in individuals with COVID-19
Authors: Lengacher Nathalie A. , Tomlinson Julianna J. , Jochum Ann-Kristin , Franz Jonas , Hasan Ali Omar , Flatz Lukas , Jochum Wolfram , Penninger Josef ,   aSCENT-PD Investigators, Arenkiel Benjamin , Liu Zhandong , Mollenhauer Brit , Penninger Josef , Rousseaux Maxime , Saghatelyan Armen , Salmaso Natalina , Stadelmann Christine , Schlossmacher Michael G. , Tomlinson Julianna J. , Woulfe John M. , Stadelmann Christine , Woulfe John M. , Schlossmacher Michael G.
Published: May 2024

The majority of patients with Parkinson disease (PD) experience a loss in their sense of smell and accumulate insoluble α-synuclein aggregates in their olfactory bulbs (OB). Subjects affected by a SARS-CoV-2-linked illness (COVID-19) also frequently experience hyposmia. We previously postulated that microglial activation as well as α-synuclein and tau misprocessing can occur during host responses following microbial encounters. Using semiquantitative measurements of immunohistochemical signals, we examined OB and olfactory tract specimens collected serially at autopsies between 2020 and 2023. Deceased subjects comprised 50 adults, which included COVID19 + patients (n = 22), individuals with Lewy body disease (e.g., PD; dementia with Lewy bodies (n = 6)), Alzheimer disease (AD; n = 3), and other neurodegenerative disorders (e.g., progressive supranuclear palsy (n = 2); multisystem atrophy (n = 1)). Further, we included neurologically healthy controls (n = 9), and added subjects with an inflammation-rich brain disorder as neurological controls (NCO; n = 7). When probing for microglial and histiocytic reactivity in the anterior olfactory nuclei (AON) by anti-CD68 immunostaining, scores were consistently elevated in NCO and AD cases. In contrast, microglial signals on average were not significantly altered in COVID19 + patients relative to healthy controls, although anti-CD68 reactivity in their OB and tracts declined with progression in age. Mild-to-moderate increases in phospho-α-synuclein and phospho-tau signals were detected in the AON of tauopathy- and synucleinopathy-afflicted brains, respectively, consistent with mixed pathology, as described by others. Lastly, when both sides were available for comparison in our case series, we saw no asymmetry in the degree of pathology of the left versus right OB and tracts. We concluded from our autopsy series that after a fatal course of COVID-19, microscopic changes in the rostral, intracranial portion of the olfactory circuitry -when present- reflected neurodegenerative processes seen elsewhere in the brain. In general, microglial reactivity correlated best with the degree of Alzheimer’s-linked tauopathy and declined with progression of age in COVID19 + patients.
An evaluation of the adequacy of Lévy and extreme value tail risk estimates
Authors: Mozumder Sharif , Hassan M. Kabir , Kabir M. Humayun
Published: May 2024

This study investigates the simplicity and adequacy of tail-based risk measures—value-at-risk (VaR) and expected shortfall (ES)—when applied to tail targeting of the extreme value (EV) model. We implement Lévy–VaR and ES risk measures as full density-based alternatives to the generalized Pareto VaR and the generalized Pareto ES of the tail-targeting EV model. Using data on futures contracts of S&P500, FTSE100, DAX, Hang Seng, and Nikkei 225 during the Global Financial Crisis of 2007–2008, we find that the simplicity of tail-based risk management with a tail-targeting EV model is more attractive. However, the performance of EV risk estimates is not necessarily superior to that of full density-based relatively complex Lévy risk estimates, which may not always give us more robust VaR and ES results, making the model inadequate from a practical perspective. There is randomness in the estimation performances under both approaches for different data ranges and coverage levels. Such mixed results imply that banks, financial institutions, and policymakers should find a way to compromise or trade-off between “simplicity” and user-defined “adequacy”.
Two Senses of Gender Abolition
Authors: Gabriel Kay
Published: May 2024

What contribution does the struggle for trans liberation have for a communist horizon? Posing this question raises the vexed relationship between class struggle and so-called identity politics. This chapter aims to understand the totalizing force of political movement from one or another standpoint of social identity. Georg Lukács introduced “standpoint” as a category to think the differential perspectives onto capitalist totality that class positions enable. In a Lukácsian attempt to account for the capitalist production of sexual identity, Kevin Floyd has argued that this production of identity—a reification in the sense of the solidification of a stable position out of a historical process—enables a historically situated and critical knowledge of capitalist totality. This chapter pursues an analogous argument from a transsexual perspective. The aim is to foreground the sphere of embodiment that transsexuality bears on—where “embodiment” signals the social dimension of signification that any body partakes in.
Generic Deductiveness
Authors: Lavery Grace
Published: May 2024

To theorize the present condition of trans women under unprecedented historical surveillance, this chapter examines the ambivalence and erotic deflation of a “stoner neo-noir” cinema subgenre. This genre’s principles were sketched in 1970s noir revival movies (Chinatown, The Long Goodbye) and became a staple of later output (The Big Lebowski, Inherent Vice, Under the Silver Lake). These movies share a stoned protagonist (a detective, or “dick”) and a Southern Californian location. They also depart from traditional noir by emplotting mysteries that provoke speculations into the nature of suspicion, depicting a lethargic deductiveness that exceeds the mysteries delineated by plot. “Generic deductiveness” aligns the stoned dick, solving both a particular mystery and the mystery of reality, with the curious condition of the trans woman. The chapter also examines echoes and reverberations between the stoned dick and the emergence of a feminist critique of Freud’s abandonment of the seduction theory.
Interplay of age, gender, education, and heart rate in dementia among older adults in Wakiso, Uganda: a cross sectional study
Authors: Lwere Kamada , Sendagire Hakim , Muwonge Haruna , JL Gumukiriza-Onoria , Nazziwa Aisha , Buwembo Denis , Nakasujja Noeline , Mark Kaddumukasa
Published: May 2024

Background In this cross-sectional study conducted in Wakiso, Uganda, from May to July 2023, we investigated the interactions among age, sex, education, and heart rate in relation to dementia and Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) among individuals aged 65 years and older. Methods We purposively sampled 106 participants, focusing on those with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, leveraging collaborations with local health teams. Data collection involved comprehensive questionnaires covering sociodemographic details and health parameters, and employed the Montreal Cognitive Assessment Tool for dementia screening. Results Our findings highlight a nuanced landscape of risk factors; each additional year of age was associated with a 1.19- and 1.22-times increased risk of MCI and dementia, respectively. Gender analysis revealed a protective effect against MCI in males, but no significant impact on dementia risk. Education emerged as a protective factor, with each additional year associated with a 28% reduction in MCI risk, although its effect on dementia risk remains ambiguous. Significantly, an elevated heart rate was strongly linked to an increased risk of both MCI and dementia, underscoring the potential cardiovascular dimension in cognitive health. Conclusions This study contributes to the understanding of the complex interplay of risk factors for dementia, emphasizing the need for further research to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and interventions for healthy cognitive aging in the older adult population.
Transformaciones de los géneros deportivos audiovisuales durante el Covid-19: una entrevista con periodistas y realizadores iberoamericanos
Authors: Karbaum Padilla Gerardo , BARREDO IBÁÑEZ DANIEL , REJANO PEÑA CARLOS , CHURA PILCO CLAUDIA
Published: May 2024

Las crisis producen cambios mediáticos. El Covid-19 también lo hizo y los canales deportivos audiovisuales no fueron ajenos a esto tras la cancelación de los eventos deportivos. Por ello, esta investigación tiene como objetivo describir las transformaciones que sufrieron los géneros y formatos audiovisuales en los medios deportivos de Iberoamérica. El estudio es de enfoque cualitativo y se realizaron entrevistas semiestructuradas a productores, reporteros, conductores y posproductores de diversos canales deportivos de España, Perú, Argentina, Estados Unidos y Colombia. Los resultados revelan que ante la imposibilidad de hacer coberturas se tuvo que recurrir a la entrevista virtual como formato de producción de contenidos, además de reactualizar temas deportivos del pasado y de hibridar partidas e-sports para transmitirlas por televisión. Lo expuesto permite concluir que en contextos adversos la producción audiovisual deportiva mezcla formatos y géneros ante la influencia de factores exógenos, y algunas de estas prácticas fueron potenciadas más allá del contexto pandémico, llegando a utilizarse en la actualidad en eventos deportivos recientes como el Mundial de Fútbol de Qatar.
Daño, envejecimiento, acúmulos y muerte celular
Authors: Jiménez Tobón Guillermo Antonio
Published: May 2024

Lo previamente mencionado nos remite a la segunda ley de la termodinámica, la cual es posible definir de muchas maneras con significados similares, pero, para efectos de este capítulo, la definiremos como “la cantidad de entropía de un sistema incrementa con el tiempo”, siendo la entropía la medida de desorden de un sistema. Las células se mueven en un estrecho margen de rangos fisiológicos en su medio para su adecuado funcionamiento (homeostasis). Según esto, las células luchan contra la entropía para su correcto funcionamiento y constantemente la entropía está al acecho para desestabilizar este equilibrio. Todo lo previamente mencionado nos hace plantear una multitud de preguntas que iremos resolviendo a lo largo de este capítulo, siendo la primera la siguiente: ¿qué determina que una célula sufra daño?
Sistema inmunológico y enfermedades asociadas
Authors: Huertas-Valero Mónica Gabriela , Olaya Nury N.
Published: May 2024

En este capítulo nos enfocaremos a entender este tipo de situaciones, profundizando en el reconocimiento antigénico, en las células, las moléculas y los procesos involucrados en estos mecanismos, y en las principales enfermedades relacionadas con nuestro sistema inmune.
Learning and Balancing Unknown Loads in Large-Scale Systems
Authors: Goldsztajn Diego , Borst Sem C. , van Leeuwaarden Johan S. H.
Published: May 2024

Consider a system of identical server pools where tasks with exponentially distributed service times arrive as a time-inhomogeneous Poisson process. An admission threshold is used in an inner control loop to assign incoming tasks to server pools, while in an outer control loop, a learning scheme adjusts this threshold over time to keep it aligned with the unknown offered load of the system. In a many-server regime, we prove that the learning scheme reaches an equilibrium along intervals of time when the normalized offered load per server pool is suitably bounded and that this results in a balanced distribution of the load. Furthermore, we establish a similar result when tasks with Coxian distributed service times arrive at a constant rate and the threshold is adjusted using only the total number of tasks in the system. The novel proof technique developed in this paper, which differs from a traditional fluid limit analysis, allows us to handle rapid variations of the first learning scheme, triggered by excursions of the occupancy process that have vanishing size. Moreover, our approach allows us to characterize the asymptotic behavior of the system with Coxian distributed service times without relying on a fluid limit of a detailed state descriptor.

Funding: The work in this paper was supported by the Nederlandse Organisatie voor Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek [Gravitation Grant NETWORKS-024.002.003 and Vici Grant 202.068].
Simple harmonic motion studied on spring-mass system using Phyphox application
Authors: Boimau Infianto , Laos Landiana E.
Published: May 2024

Simple harmonic motion experiments have been conducted using a smartphone-based spring-mass system with the Phyphox application. This research aims to investigate the relationship between the mass of an object and the period and frequency of oscillations and determine the spring constant using smartphone-based experimental equipment. The method uses the "spring" feature in the Phyphox application to visualize oscillatory movements in real-time and measure the period and frequency of oscillations. The experimental results show that the spring constant obtained from the smartphone-based experiment is 9.51 N/m, with a difference of 1.25% compared to the Hooke's Law experimental setup with the conventional method. This shows that using a smartphone-based experimental setup can be a better alternative for conducting physics experiments requiring high accuracy.
Deprivation of liberty and the community nurse
Authors: Dowie Iwan
Published: May 2024

In this month's Policy column, Iwan Dowie discusses the ‘deprivation of liberty’ − which is used to safeguard patients who may be lacking sufficient mental capacity to manage their own safety. The author, through previous legal cases, shares how the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS)—an amendment to the Mental Capacity Act 2005—came into being, and the importance of community nurses in knowing the DoLS.
Pets, obesity and nurses: surgical site infections in the community
Authors: Greener Mark
Published: May 2024

Many surgical site infections (SSI) emerge after the patient is discharged from hospital. So, practice and district nurses should remain alert for SSIs and address modifiable risk factors, which include helping obese patients lose weight, optimising glucose control in people with diabetes and encouraging smoking cessation. Animals, including pets, are important reservoirs of resistant bacteria. By optimising SSI care, nurses can not only improve wound healing but also help preserve antibiotic efficacy.
Introducing an ultrasound-guided longer length peripheral IV catheter for patients with difficult venous access
Authors: Godfrey Julie , Gallipoli Luigi
Published: May 2024

Aim:

Insertion of a peripheral intravenous catheter (PIVC) is one of the most common procedures carried out in hospitals worldwide, but failure rates are unacceptably high. This local quality improvement project aimed to assess improvements in first-stick success rate, dwell time and overall catheter success rate when implementing a longer-length peripheral intravenous catheter (LPIVC) under ultrasound guidance for patients with difficult venous access (DVA).

Methods:

Data were collected from 386 DVA patients requiring a PIVC at one hospital. Number of catheter insertion attempts, catheter dwell time and reason for catheter removal were recorded for each patient. To implement the new DVA catheterisation pathway, registered nurses undertook a training programme comprising workshops and ultrasound-guided cannulation technique practice on phantoms. Costs and waste weights associated with LPIVC insertion, compared with midline insertion, were calculated.

Results:

First-stick success rate was 95.0% using the LPIVC under ultrasound guidance. Dwell time ranged from 1 to 80 days, with a large proportion of those dwelling <1 day being placed in day-case patients. Treatment success rate with the LPIVCs was 83.6%. Equipment costs for an LPIVC insertion were £89.22 lower than for a midline insertion, and the weight of waste generated per procedure was 1 kg lower for LPIVCs.

Conclusions:

First-stick success rate of LPIVCs, aided by improved purchase in the vein and visualisation with ultrasound guidance, was very high, superior to rates reported in other studies. The procedure provides a better patient experience as successful first attempts avoid unnecessary further insertion attempts. Other benefits are increased nursing time efficiency, a reduction in clinical waste and the lower cost of the equipment required.
Persistent feline coronavirus infection in a cat with cardiac and gastrointestinal signs
Authors: Licitra Beth N , Olarte-Castillo Ximena A , Whit-taker Gary R
Published: May 2024

Background

Feline coronavirus infection causes feline infectious peritonitis in a subset of cats, but can also result in persistent infection. The tissue reservoirs of feline coronavirus and the role of viral persistence in pathogenesis are poorly understood.

Aims

This study aimed to identify sites of feline coronavirus persistence in a naturally infected cat, identify disease correlates and characterise within-host viral evolution.

Methods

The study followed a 5-year-old Bengal cat for 6 years and collected non-invasive samples, including faeces and conjunctival, oropharyngeal and saliva swabs. At 11-years-old, the patient was euthanised as a result of respiratory distress, and tissue samples were collected. The authors used hybridisation capture and next-generation sequencing methodologies focused on the feline coronavirus S gene, along with RNA in-situ hybridisation.

Results

During the study, the patient was diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease, alimentary small cell lymphoma, chronic rhinitis and mitral valve regurgitation. Feline coronavirus was detected in the nasal cavity, intestine, faeces and conjunctiva in 2017, and in the intestine, faeces and heart in 2022. Sequence analysis showed that the virus adapted to tissue reservoirs over time.

Conclusions

This study identifies potential feline coronavirus reservoirs. The relationship of persistent feline coronavirus infection to chronic conditions warrants further investigation.
Noise-related fear in dogs
Authors: Bremhorst Annika , Loftus Loni , McPeake Kevin
Published: May 2024

This comprehensive guide delves into the phenomenon of noise-related fear in dogs, a prevalent issue with a significant impact on canine wellbeing. The article explores the intricate relationship between a dog's emotional response to noise and its behavioural expressions, highlighting the complexity of noise-related fear, its clinical manifestations and therapeutic approaches. It emphasises the importance of differentiating fear from anxiety and phobias, as they exhibit distinct characteristics that necessitate separate consideration in both diagnostic and therapeutic contexts. The guide explains how various factors can contribute to the development and progression of noise-related fear in dogs, including genetic predispositions, breed-specific traits and traumatic events related to noise exposure. It also addresses the critical role of veterinary professionals in managing noise-related fear, advocating for informed, proactive approaches in prevention, management and treatment. The guide stresses the importance of early detection and intervention, tailored treatment strategies, and the collaborative involvement of pet owners. Overall, it offers a holistic approach to safeguard the development of noise-related fear in dogs, aimed at improving their behavioural response and overall quality of life.
New Data Historians and the Study of Slavery in Vast Early America
Authors: Hawthorne Walter
Published: May 2024

Abstract: This Companion Forum is a collaboration between the William and Mary Quarterly and the Journal of Slavery and Data Preservation to highlight new approaches to datasets about enslaved people. The Companion Forum includes articles in the WMQ by Nicholas Radburn, Tessa Murphy, and Stuart M. McManus. Radburn, Murphy, and McManus published their datasets and data articles in the JSDP
Advancing LWIR FSO Communication through High-Speed Multilevel Signals and Directly Modulated Quantum Cascade Lasers
Authors: Joharifar Mahdieh , Durupt Laureline , Dely Hamza , Ostrovskis Armands , Schatz Richard , Puerta Rafael , Maisons GRégory , Salgals Toms , Gacemi Djamal , Zhang Lu , Spolitis Sandis , Sun Yan-Ting , Bobrovs Vjaceslavs , Yu Xianbin , Vasanelli Angela , ozolins oskars , Sirtori Carlo , Pang Xiaodan
Published: May 2024

This study investigates the potential of long-wave infrared (LWIR) free-space optical (FSO) transmission using multilevel signals to achieve high spectral efficiency. The FSO transmission system includes a directly modulated-quantum cascade laser (DM-QCL) operating at 9.1 μm and a mercury cadmium telluride (MCT) detector. We conduct small-signal characterization of the system, including the DM-QCL chip and MCT detector, evaluating the end-to-end response of both components and all associated electrical elements. For large-signal characterization, we employ a range of modulation formats, including on-off keying (OOK), 4-level pulse amplitude modulation (PAM4), and 6-level PAM (PAM6), with the objective of optimizing both the bit rate and spectral efficiency of the FSO transmission by applying pre- and post-processing equalization. At 15˚C, the studied LWIR FSO system achieves gross rates of 16 Gbps with an OOK signal and 18 Gbps with PAM4, both below the 6.25% overhead hard decision-forward error correction (6.25%-OH HD-FEC) limit, and 10 Gbps OOK below the KR-FEC limit. At 20˚C, we obtain 15 Gbps with OOK, 18 Gbps with PAM4, and 17.4 Gbps with PAM6. Furthermore, we evaluate the BER performance as a function of the decision feedback equalization (DFE) tap number to explore the role of equalization in enhancing signal fidelity and reducing errors in FSO transmission. Our findings accentuate the competitive potential of DM-QCL and MCT detector-based FSO transceivers with digital equalization for the next generation of FSO communication systems.
Ultrafast 550-W average-power thin-disk laser oscillator
Authors: Seidel Moritz , Lang Lukas , Phillips Christopher , Keller Ursula
Published: May 2024

We present a SESAM modelocked ultrafast thin-disk laser oscillator providing 550 W of average output power with 852 fs pulses at 5.5 MHz repetition rate. To the best of our knowledge, this represents the highest average output power ever achieved from a modelocked oscillator. To reach this significant power scaling, a new replicating cavity design for modelocked oscillators is utilized. The oscillator delivers 103 MW of peak power with a pulse energy of 100 µJ at a beam quality of M²< 1.2, with a high optical-to-optical efficiency of 35%. As well as providing record average output power, this oscillator thus also provides, to the best of our knowledge, the highest pulse energy from any modelocked oscillator and the highest peak power from any SESAM modelocked oscillator. Advances in SESAM design and manufacturing that enabled this result are discussed, as well as practical challenges when scaling oscillators to the kW-class.
Evaluation of genotoxic effect via expression of DNA damage responsive gene induced by ivermectin on MDBK cell line
Authors: Ali Muhammad Muddassir , Farhad Zainab , Wasim Muhammad , Raza Sohail , Almutairi Mikhlid H. , Zahra Kainat , Saleem Muhammad Usman , Mehmood Khalid
Published: May 2024

Ivermectin (IVM) is an anti-parasitic drug which is used for treating parasitic infestations. It has been used in humans for treating intestinal strongyloidiasis and onchocerciasis however, currently researchers are investigating its potential for treating coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. Due to its broad-spectrum activities, IVM is being used excessively in animals which has generated an interest for researchers to investigate its toxic effects. Cytotoxic and genotoxic effects have been reported in animals due to excessive usage of IVM. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of IVM on the Madin-Darby-Bovine-Kidney (MDBK) cell line by examining the expression of a DNA damage-responsive gene (OGG1). Cytotoxicity of IVM was tested using an assay (MTT 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide), whereas the genotoxicity was evaluated using comet assay along with micronucleus assay. Moreover, the gene expression of DNA damage response gene (OGG1) was measured by qRT-PCR, after extraction of RNA from the MDBK cell line using the TRIzol method and its conversion to cDNA by reverse-transcriptase PCR. During the experiment, cell viability percentage was measured at different doses of IVM i.e., 25%, 50%, 75%, along with LC50/2, LC50 and LC50*2. It was observed that the gene expression of OGG1 increased as the concentration of IVM increased. It was concluded that IVM has both cytotoxic and genotoxic effects on the MDBK cell line. Furthermore, it is recommended that studies related to the toxic effects of IVM at molecular level and on other model organisms should be conducted to combat its hazardous effects.
An approach to optimizing dietary protein to growth and body composition in walking catfish, Clarias batrachus (Linneaeus, 1758)
Authors: Naeem Zara , Zuberi Amina , Ali Muhammad , Naeem Ammar Danyal , Naeem Muhammad
Published: May 2024

Clarias batrachus is a commercially important food fish. In the present study, effect of varying dietary protein levels was evaluated on the survival, growth parameters and proximate composition of C. batrachus. Diets comprising 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, and 50% crude protein (CP) were supplied to fish in T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, and T6, respectively, at the rate of 5% of fish body weight for the entire 90 days, twice daily. Size of each stocked C. batrachus was recorded after 15 days. Results revealed 100% survival rate of C. batrachus in all treatments. Significantly highest (P<0.001) mean value of weight gain (g/fish), percent weight gain, daily growth rate, specific growth rate and protein efficiency ratio (PER) in C. batrachus were recorded, reared in T4 by feeding 40% CP in diet. The best FCR value (1.90±0.02) for C. batrachus was obtained in T4 by feeding 40%CP in diet. Mean value of water, ash, fat and protein contents (wet mass) were ranged 74.10–79.23%, 3.12–4.68%, 3.90–4.43% and 13.09–16.79% for C. batrachus in the studied treatment groups. Water content (%) was found significantly (P<0.05) higher in the body of C. batrachus for T1, T2, T3 and T6 than for T4 and T5. Ash was found significantly (P<0.05) higher in the fish reared in T4 and T5. Fat content in the wet body mass of C. batrachus was found significantly higher in T4 and T1. While, significant higher (P<0.05) values of mean protein content was noted in C. batrachus reared in T4 and T5. Body composition of C. batrachus was also categorically affected by body size, however, condition factor showed non-significant correlation in most of the relationships in the present study. Overall, results indicated that feeding appropriate diet (containing 40% CP) to the fish resulted good growth performance, lower FCR and higher protein content in the fish. Present study provides valuable knowledge of optimal dietary protein level in C. batrachus which will help in commercial success of aquaculture.
Semaglutide combined with empagliflozin vs. monotherapy for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in type 2 diabetes: Study protocol for a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Lin Yu-Hao , Zhang Zhi-Jun , Zhong Jin-Qing , Wang Zhi-Yi , Peng Yi-Ting , Lin Yan-Mei , Zhang Huo-Ping , Tian Jian-Qing
Published: May 2024

Background

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is strongly associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Lifestyle intervention remains a preferred treatment modality for NAFLD. The glucagon-like peptide (GLP-1) receptor agonists and sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors have been developed as new glucose-lowering drugs, which can improve fatty liver via an insulin-independent glucose-lowering effect. However, studies exploring the efficacy of GLP-1 receptor agonists combined with SGLT-2 inhibitors in patients with NAFLD and T2DM are scanty. Thus, the present randomised controlled trial aims at comparing the efficacy and safety of semaglutide plus empagliflozin with each treatment alone in patients with NAFLD and T2DM.

Methods

This 52-week double-blinded, randomised, parallel-group, active-controlled trial evaluates the effects of semaglutide, empagliflozin and semaglutide + empagliflozin in 105 eligible overweight/obese subjects with NAFLD and T2DM. The primary outcome will be a change from baseline to week 52 in the controlled attenuation parameter, free fatty acid and glucagon. Secondary endpoints include changes in liver stiffness measurement, liver enzymes, blood glucose, lipid levels, renal function, electrolyte balances, minerals and bone metabolism, cytokines, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, ferritin, anthropometric indicators, nonalcoholic fatty liver fibrosis score, fibrosis 4 score and homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance. In addition, intention-to-treat, interim analysis and safety analysis will be performed.

Discussion

This double-blinded, randomised, clinical trial involves a multi-disciplinary approach and aims to explore the synergistic effects of the combination of semaglutide and empagliflozin. The results can provide important insights into mechanisms of GLP-1 receptor agonists and/or SGLT-2 inhibitors in patients with NAFLD and T2DM.

Trial registration

This study has been registered with Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2300070674).
Investigating the nature of open science practices across complementary, alternative, and integrative medicine journals: An audit
Authors: Ng Jeremy Y. , Lin Brenda , Parikh Tisha , Cramer Holger , Moher David
Published: May 2024

Background

Open science practices are implemented across many scientific fields to improve transparency and reproducibility in research. Complementary, alternative, and integrative medicine (CAIM) is a growing field that may benefit from adoption of open science practices. The efficacy and safety of CAIM practices, a popular concern with the field, can be validated or refuted through transparent and reliable research. Investigating open science practices across CAIM journals by using the Transparency and Openness Promotion (TOP) guidelines can potentially promote open science practices across CAIM journals. The purpose of this study is to conduct an audit that compares and ranks open science practices adopted by CAIM journals against TOP guidelines laid out by the Center for Open Science (COS).

Methods

CAIM-specific journals with titles containing the words “complementary”, “alternative” and/or “integrative” were included in this audit. Each of the eight TOP criteria were used to extract open science practices from each of the CAIM journals. Data was summarized by the TOP guideline and ranked using the TOP Factor to identify commonalities and differences in practices across the included journals.

Results

A total of 19 CAIM journals were included in this audit. Across all journals, the mean TOP Factor was 2.95 with a median score of 2. The findings of this study reveal high variability among the open science practices required by journals in this field. Four journals (21%) had a final TOP score of 0, while the total scores of the remaining 15 (79%) ranged from 1 to 8.

Conclusion

While several studies have audited open science practices across discipline-specific journals, none have focused on CAIM journals. The results of this study indicate that CAIM journals provide minimal guidelines to encourage or require authors to adhere to open science practices and there is an opportunity to improve the use of open science practices in the field.
Barriers and facilitators of adherence to low-dose aspirin during pregnancy: A co-produced systematic review and COM-B framework synthesis of qualitative evidence
Authors: Vinogradov Raya , Holden Eleanor , Patel Mehali , Grigg Rowan , Errington Linda , Araújo-Soares Vera , Rankin Judith
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Women at increased risk of developing pre-eclampsia are advised to take a daily low-dose of aspirin from 12 weeks of pregnancy to reduce their risks. Despite the well-established prophylactic effect of aspirin, adherence to this therapy is low. This systematic review aimed to summarise evidence on the barriers and facilitators of adherence to low-dose aspirin to inform intervention development to support decision making and persistence with aspirin use for pre-eclampsia prevention.

Materials and methods

A systematic review and meta-synthesis of qualitative research was co-produced by representatives from charities, and public, clinical and academic members. Eight electronic databases (MEDLINE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Web of Science, Scopus, EMBASE, Prospero, OpenGrey), archives of charities and professional organisations were searched (between October and November 2023 and re-run in August 2023) using predefined search terms. Studies containing qualitative components related to barriers and facilitators of adherence to low-dose aspirin during pregnancy were included. Quality assessment was performed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme checklist for qualitative research. A combination of the COM-B framework with phases of adherence process as defined by international taxonomy was used as the coding framework. Co-production activities were facilitated by use of ‘Zoom’ and ‘Linoit’.

Results

From a total of 3377 papers identified through our searches, five published studies and one dissertation met our inclusion criteria. Studies were published from 2019 to 2022 covering research conducted in the USA, Canada, UK, Netherlands and Australia. Barriers and facilitators to adherence were mapped to six categories of the COM-B for three phases of adherence: initiation, implementation, and discontinuation. The discontinuation phase of adherence was only mentioned by one author. Four key themes were identified relating to pregnancy: ‘Insufficient knowledge’, ‘Necessity concerns balance’, ‘Access to medicine’, ‘Social influences’, and ‘Lack of Habit’.

Conclusions

The COM-B framework allowed for detailed mapping of key factors shaping different phases of adherence in behavioural change terms and now provides a solid foundation for the development of a behavioural intervention. Although potential intervention elements could be suggested based on the results of this synthesis, additional co-production work is needed to define elements and plan for the delivery of the future intervention.

Trial registration

PROSPERO CRD42022359718. https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42022359718.
The effects of neck exercise in comparison to passive or no intervention on quantitative sensory testing measurements in adults with chronic neck pain: A systematic review
Authors: Osborne Daniel , Jadhakhan Ferozkhan , Falla Deborah
Published: May 2024

Background

Previous systematic reviews have identified the benefits of exercise for chronic neck pain on subjective reports of pain, but not with objective measures such as quantitative sensory testing (QST). A systematic review was conducted to identify the effects of neck specific exercise on QST measures in adults with chronic neck pain to synthesise existing literature and provide clinical recommendations.

Methods

The study protocol was registered prospectively with PROSPERO (PROSPERO CRD42021297383). For both randomised and non-randomised trials, the following databases and trial registries were searched: AMED, CINAHL, Embase, Google Scholar, Medline, PEDro, PubMed, Scopus, SPORTDiscus, Science Citation Index and Social Science Citation Index from Web of Science Core Collection, clinicaltrials.gov, GreyOpen, and ISRCTN registry. These searches were conducted from inception to February 2022 and were updated until September 2023. Reference lists of eligible studies were screened. Study selection was performed independently by two reviewers, with data extraction and quality appraisal completed by one reviewer and independently ratified by a second reviewer. Due to high heterogeneity, narrative synthesis was performed with results grouped by exercise type.

Findings

Three trials were included. Risk of bias was rated as moderate and the certainty of evidence as low or moderate for all studies. All exercise groups demonstrated statistically significant improvement at an intermediate-term follow-up, with progressive resistance training combined with graded physical training demonstrating the highest certainty of evidence. Fixed resistance training demonstrated statistically significant improvement in QST measures at a short-term assessment.

Interpretation

Fixed resistance training is effective for short-term changes in pain sensitivity based on low-quality evidence, whilst moderate-quality evidence supports progressive resistance training combined with graded physical training for intermediate-term changes in pain sensitivity.
Language as a lens
Authors: Overbeek Ninke
Published: May 2024

This text was written first in Dutch in 2011. It is an adaptation of my BA thesis for the University of the Arts in Utrecht and I am still very excited that I wrote it in the way that I did, because it was written within an educational context of great creative freedom. This is to say that many of the things I state about language are based on experience working as a writer for stage productions, performance and poetry. I allow myself to play with language, and create my own terminology as I go along; a terminology of my own, based in my own practice – this is what still makes it a valuable text to me and hopefully to others, one I would never be able to produce again in the same way. I had a bigger ability to wonder, and less knowledge, for instance about Mieke Bal’s concept of focalization, to lean back on. I continued my studies after writing this, which means that a lot of the theory on language philosophy could have been backed up by a more specified theoretical framework. It is important to keep this in mind while reading this publication. If anything, it is an invitation to take a look anew at the material of a writer: language, vocabulary. I would like to invite you to consider this while reading. This text comes from a source of genuine wonder about words and what they might mean.
INTELIGÊNCIA ARTIFICIAL EM DECISÕES JUDICIAIS: OPACIDADE VERSUS GARANTIAS PROCESSUAIS
Authors: Bolzan de Morais José Luis , Kunzendorff Mafra Lígia
Published: May 2024

Contextualização: O texto propõe, como temática, uma análise crítica da utilização da inteligência artificial no processo de tomada de decisões judiciais.
Objetivo: Objetiva-se realizar um exame de como a utilização das novas tecnologias impacta na efetivação de um processo de garantias.
Método: Para o desenvolvimento do trabalho utilizou-se o método dialético, correlacionando a bibliografia sobre o tema, de modo a compreender como o uso da inteligência artificial pode ser benéfico ou prejudicial às garantias constitucionais nesse campo. Investigam-se também os problemas enfrentados ao utilizar a lógica algorítmica para subsidiar a decisão sobre fatos humanos, como a opacidade dos sistemas e a possibilidade, ou não, de se questionar efetivamente as razões das decisões maquinais. Por fim, discute-se a necessidade de uma regulamentação e normatização que guie o processo tecnológico para reafirmar as garantias processuais conquistadas.
Resultados: Concluiu-se que, enquanto os programas de inteligência artificial não tiverem um alto grau de transparência e explicabilidade, não será possível a sua utilização para subsidiar ou tomar decisões judiciais.
A INTENSIFICAÇÃO DE ALTERAÇÕES CONSTITUCIONAIS: A COMPARAÇÃO DE CONCEPÇÕES E MODELOS ENTRE BRASIL E ITÁLIA
Authors: Calvieri Carlo , Demarchi Clovis , Dal Ri Luciene
Published: May 2024

Contextualização: O índice de alterações de constituições nacionais por ano tem crescido desde 1950. No Brasil, observa-se o crescimento do índice de alteração constitucional, desde a década de 1930. Na Itália, a frequência da legislação ordinária em contraste com o Estatuto Albertino também se fez sentir antes do marco mundial. A anterioridade aos índices mundiais, bem como as dinâmicas políticas sensivelmente diversas fomentam a análise das concepções de constituição e de suas alterações formais, no Brasil e na Itália, visto que a dinâmica, a frequência e o conteúdo das alterações não se justificam apenas pela longevidade e pela extensão dos textos de natureza constitucional.
Objetivo: Verificar se as alterações constitucionais refletem concepções constitucionais com reminiscências de regimes autoritários do século XX.
Método: A análise das experiências constitucionais é realizada em perspectiva histórica e de direito comparado, com a análise de fontes empíricas.
Resultados: Da pesquisa colhe-se que as práticas de alterações aos textos de natureza constitucional, no Brasil e na Itália, constam de reminiscências da concepção de constituição (e de suas alterações), sob regimes autoritários, durante o século XX.
COOPERAÇÃO ENTRE OS GRUPOS SOCIAIS E A FUNÇÃO SOCIAL DAS EMPRESAS TRANSNACIONAIS EM FACE DO DESENVOLVIMENTO SUSTENTÁVEL
Authors: Fiorillo Celso Antonio Pacheco
Published: May 2024

Contextualização: Vinculado que está historicamente ao direito social desenvolvido pela doutrina alemã no século XIX, o denominado princípio da função social tem sua gênese claramente associada à ordem econômica.
Objetivo: Indicar que a função social passou a ter, na Carta Magna de 1988, estrutura jurídica superiormente concebida e explicitamente estabelecida a partir do princípio fundamental vinculado aos valores sociais do trabalho e da livre iniciativa, tendo como escopo a dignidade da pessoa humana e gerando reflexos diretos no âmbito dos direitos e garantias fundamentais, bem como particularmente em face dos princípios gerais da atividade econômica.
Metodologia: A pesquisa foi estruturada e realizada a partir do método hermenêutico, por meio do levantamento dos trabalhos doutrinários elaborados por estudiosos especializados atuantes no âmbito da matéria investigada e da análise jurídica vinculada ao direito ambiental constitucional assim como das normas infraconstitucionais, tudo com o objetivo de adequar de forma satisfatória o enquadramento do tema perante nosso sistema jurídico em vigor.
Resultados: verificou-se que, exatamente por serem entendidas como atividade econômica destinada a organizar a produção em vários países do mundo, as empresas transnacionais, balizadas que estão pelo sistema normativo fixado por nossa Carta Magna, também estão submetidas aos princípios gerais indicados no artigo 170 da CF e, particularmente, ao princípio da defesa do meio ambiente associados necessariamente aos princípios fundamentais e deveres constitucionais antes indicados visando obrigatoriamente a desempenhar funções em benefício da coletividade, com o objetivo de atender às necessidades do presente, sem comprometer as futuras gerações.
Predictors for seizure relapse in children with epilepsy after antiepileptic drug withdrawal: case-control study
Authors: Triono Agung , Herini Elisabeth Siti , Mangunatmaja Irawan
Published: May 2024

Background Epilepsy is defined as a neurologic condition  caused by a pathological brain condition. Epilepsy patients who have stopped treatment and are seizure-free for two years are considered to have achieved complete remission. Relapse occurs when seizures return after anti-epileptic drug (AED) withdrawal. Several studies reported that frequent seizures, prolonged duration to control seizures, number of AEDs consumed, and abnormal electroencephalography (EEG) found during AEDs tapered, were reported as predictors of relapse.
Methods This retrospective, case-control study was carried out from 2012 – 2016 using multisite medical record evaluation, followed by interviews and EEG examinations. The case group included children with epilepsy who had seizure relapse, while the control group included children with complete remission of epilepsy. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify predictors of relapse.
Results Relapse predictors in bivariate analysis were symptomatic etiology epilepsy (OR 5.000; 95%CI 2.345 to 10.660; P<0.001), time to seizure control ?1 year (OR 3.689; 95%CI 1.493 to 9.116; P=0.003), and worsened EEG evolution at pre-withdrawal compared to EEG at the time of diagnosis (OR 2.310; 95%CI 1.132 to 4.717; P=0.021). Statistically significant relapse predictors in multivariate analysis were symptomatic etiology epilepsy (OR 4.384; 95%CI 1.985 to 9.681; P<0.001) and slow (?1 year) time to seizure control (OR 4.355; 95%CI 1.753  to 10.817; P 0.002).
Conclusion Symptomatic etiology epilepsy and time to seizure control ?1 year are independent predictive factors for seizure relapse in children with epilepsy. Therefore, children with these conditions require a longer period and careful, gradual dose reduction before antiepileptic drugs withdrawal.