bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SARS-CoV-2-ORF3a variant Q57H reduces its pro-apoptotic activity in host cells
Authors: Landherr Maria , Polina Iuliia , Cypress Michael W. , Chaput Isabel , Nieto Bridget , Jhun Bong Sook , O-Uchi Jin
Published: April 2024

Background Mutations in the viral genome of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) can enhance its pathogenicity by affecting its transmissibility, disease severity, and overall mortality in human populations. In addition to mutations within the coding region of SARS-CoV-2 structural proteins, there have been reports of mutations in other SARS-CoV-2 proteins that affect virulence, such as open reading frame 3a (ORF3a), which is involved in viral replication. The expression of ORF3a in host cells activates cell death signaling, leading to tissue damage, which affects the severity of COVID-19. The ORF3a-Q57H variant is the most frequent and recurrent variant of ORF3a and is likely associated with increased transmissibility but lower mortality in the 4th epidemic wave of COVID-19 in Hong Kong. Computational structural modeling predicted that the Q57H variant destabilizes the protein structure of ORF3a, which may result in reduced protein expression in human cells. However, it is still unknown how this mutation affects ORF3a protein function and, if so, whether it can change the severity of host cell damage. Methods Plasmids carrying SARS-CoV-2-ORF3a from Wuhan-Hu-1 strain (i.e., wild-type; WT) and its variant Q57H were transiently transfected into HEK293T cells and used for biochemical and cell biological assays. Results SARS-CoV-2-ORF3a-Q57H variant exhibits higher protein expression than WT, but ORF3a-Q57H expression results in less apoptosis in host cells compared to WT via lower activation of the extrinsic apoptotic pathway. Conclusion The relatively mild phenotype of the SARS-CoV-2-ORF3a-Q57H variant may result from alterations to ORF3a function by this mutation, rather than its protein expression levels in host cells.
Morphology of the obturator nerve, an anatomical study with emphasis on its clinical implications
Authors: Prabhu Latha V. , Vadgaonkar Rajanigandha , Rai Ashwin R. , Blossom Vandana , Pai Mangala M. , Murlimanju B.V.
Published: April 2024

Background The goal of this cadaveric cross sectional study was to analyse the branching pattern of the obturator nerve morphologically and to determine its dimensions in embalmed cadavers. Methods In this cross sectional study, we examined 50 embalmed adult cadaveric lower limbs. Sex was not taken into consideration in the analysis; however, a side-based comparison was performed. The measurements were performed using a digital Vernier caliper. Results The branching of obturator nerve was observed at the pelvic cavity in 28 specimens (56%) and inside the obturator canal in 12 specimens (24%). The division of obturator nerve wasn’t observed in 10 specimens (20%). The length, width and thickness of the trunk of obturator nerve was 108.26 ± 9.53 mm, 2.84 ± 0.88 mm and 1.11 ± 0.35 mm. The width and thickness of the anterior and posterior divisions of obturator nerve measured 2.19 ± 0.82 mm, 0.9 ± 0.1 mm, 0.99 ± 0.6 mm and 0.71 ± 0.26 mm. The topography of branching of obturator nerve from the superior and inferior border of the obturator foramen was located at 1.48 ± 0.58 mm and 3.07 ± 1.1 mm away. The length of anterior division of the obturator nerve measured 110.88 ± 12.02 mm over the right side and 107.13 ± 7.81 mm over the left side. The width of the main trunk of obturator nerve was 2.87 ± 0.64 mm over the right side and 2.82 ± 0.64 mm over the left side. Conclusions We believe that morphometric data of the obturator nerve will be enlightening to the operating surgeon during procedures such as obturator nerve block, nerve transplantation, and obturator nerve repair. The dimensions of the obturator nerve observed in the present study can be utilized as a morphological database for our sample population.
An interventional study to assess knowledge, attitude, and practices among rural men (aged 18-45) about contraception and family planning in Wardha, Maharashtra
Authors: Kumar Dimple , Ingole Dr. Abhishek
Published: April 2024

Introduction In India, Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) have placed high priority on Maternal and Child Health (MCH) and Family Planning (FP). According to various studies, female contraceptives have been widely accepted and over-reliant by men. In addition, men’s attitudes towards contraception and FP say a lot about gender disparity. Power disparities and gender-restrictive norms have also endured, making it difficult for married women to fulfill their unmet needs. Spouses may find it difficult to openly communicate their need for contraception and their preferences for reproduction if their husbands have a low gender equality mindset. Aim and objectives This study aimed to examine the prevalence and behaviors related to contraception as well as the level of knowledge about family planning (FP) among men in rural areas. It aimed to ascertain the attitude towards the limited participation of rural men in FP. Additionally, the study aimed to identify any associated health issues in females resulting from the absence of adequate family planning measures. Methods This interventional study will be conducted in a rural area of the Wardha district. It includes rural married men (aged 18-45) and a pre-test and post-test study will be conducted to attempt door-to-door visits and local working areas. Study implications This intervention-focused research methodology seeks to evaluate the understanding and behaviors related to contraception and family planning (FP) among rural men. The goal was to assess the effectiveness of a comprehensive FP education program in influencing knowledge, attitudes, and contraceptive utilization among men in rural communities.
A cross-sectional case-control study of nailfold capillaroscopy changes in patients with chronic kidney disease in tertiary care hospital in central India
Authors: Jangid Shivani , Madke Bhushan , Balwani Manish
Published: April 2024

Background Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) poses a significant global health burden, necessitating a deeper understanding of its microvascular manifestations. Nailfold capillaroscopy has emerged as a valuable tool in elucidating microvascular changes in various systemic conditions, yet its application in CKD remains underexplored. This study aims to investigate the patterns of nailfold capillaroscopy changes in CKD patients across different stages and explore potential correlations with disease severity and etiology. Methods A cross-sectional case-control study will be conducted, enrolling 120 CKD patients (stage 1-5) and 60 controls without renal disease. Nailfold capillaroscopy will be performed using DINOLITE AM4113ZT, and microvascular changes will be analyzed through the MDAD approach. Demographic details, clinical histories, renal function tests, imaging findings, and additional relevant parameters will be collected. Statistical analysis, including chi-square tests, student t-tests, and correlation analyses, will be conducted using SPSS 27.0 and GraphPad Prism 7.0. Expected Outcome It is anticipated that nailfold capillaroscopy will reveal distinct microvascular changes in CKD patients compared to the control group. Correlation analyses with renal function parameters may unveil microvascular alterations and disease severity associations. The study’s findings hold the potential to enhance diagnostic and prognostic strategies in CKD, providing valuable insights into the vascular aspects of the disease and contributing to the broader understanding of microvascular changes in systemic conditions.
Monitoring Open Science as transformative change: Towards a systemic framework
Authors: Rafols Ismael , Meijer Ingeborg , Molas-Gallart Jordi
Published: April 2024

Background Following a flurry of policies for Open Science (OS), there is now a wave of initiatives to monitor its adoption. However, the great diversity of understandings and activities related to Open Science makes monitoring very challenging. There is a danger that by focusing on what can be readily observed (e.g. publications) many other OS activities are overlooked (e.g. participation), with a potential narrowing of OS scope, streetlight effects, and deviation from the values of OS. Since Open Science can be understood as a systemic transformation of the research system, we have borrowed concepts from Transformative Innovation Policies frameworks which aim at evaluating socio-technical transitions. In accordance with this view of OS as a systemic transformation, we propose that the new monitoring efforts should shift towards: (i) systemic perspectives which considers the various actions related to OS, including policies and outputs (e.g. datasets) but also processes (e.g. participatory events), outcomes (e.g. citizen interest in science) and expected impacts (e.g. better scientific contributions to addressing societal problems); (ii) implementation of monitoring as reflexive learning (rather than accountability or benchmarking); (iii) mapping the directionality of the activities and the values associated with the choices in directions. In summary, a monitoring framework for OS requires a profound change in conventional monitoring practices. The scope should broaden from current focus on outputs (such as publications) towards the processes of connection that make science ‘open’ (usage, co-creation and dialogue), as well as towards outcomes (changes in practices) and the longer-term impacts that reflect the values and normative commitments of OS.
Evaluation of clinical efficacy of scaling and root planing with copper nanoparticles gel and/or chlorhexidine gel in patients with periodontitis: A randomized control trial
Authors: Mahale Swapna , Dhadse Prasad
Published: April 2024

Antibiotic resistance of bacteria to medications can be resolved using nanotechnology. Resistance to antibiotic mechanisms, such as regulation of permeability, multi-drug efflux pumps, antibiotic disintegration, and target area attraction, are dealt with by nanoparticles. These NPs are composed of Ag and Cu as heavy metals. Being both an essential nutrient as well as an especially hazardous matter, copper represents the two poles of the survival range for microorganisms. Because copper fittings and work surfaces are capable of eliminating methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) to prevent cross-contamination,they act as an additional obstacle. Additional research is needed, as the mode of action of nanoparticles is not fully understood. Existing information concerning NPs encourages further research to explore their use in the control of dental infections.
Deep Convolutional Neural Network with Image Processing Techniques and Resnet252v2 for Detection of Covid19 from X-Ray Images
Authors: D Kavitha Rajalakshmi , P Bharathisindhu
Published: April 2024

The 2019 coronavirus disease, also known as SARS-CoV-2, has emerged as a highly contagious viral infection with a significant global impact. It has rapidly spread across various regions, resulting in a substantial number of individuals being affected by this disease. Research findings indicate that the rapid and widespread transmission of the disease has posed significant challenges for healthcare professionals in promptly diagnosing the condition and implementing effective measures to contain its propagation. The automation of the diagnostic procedure has emerged as a critical necessity. According to research findings, the implementation of this particular measure has been shown to significantly enhance work efficiency while simultaneously safeguarding healthcare workers from potential exposure to harmful viruses. Medical image analysis is a rapidly growing area of research that offers a promising solution to address this problem with greater precision. This research paper introduces a novel approach for predicting SARS-CoV-2 infection using chest radiography images...
Indian Financial Systems and Stockmarkets During COVID 19- Shape off Post Covid Through AI and Other Digital Tools
Authors: Umasankar Thogaram , Asthana P. K.
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Apart from the loss of precious lives, COVID-19 pandemic caused setbacks to all the developmental works, progress of the economy of all countries with serious repercussions on financial systems and stock markets. Most economies, including Indian stock markets since recovered from the shock, showing robustness due to stringent regulatory framework, started rebuilding, from the vertical fall. India as a nation had sufficient leeway to respond to the crisis and market instability, due to its inner strength.

Aim: This is a theoretical study of the reaction of stock markets, also of expansionary monetary policies during pandemic, the resurgence of financial system and recovery of Indian stock markets, with extreme adoption of Digital tools like AI for Algo trading .

Method: Secondary research methods have been adopted, for analyzing conceptual approaches of regulatory frameworks of the Securities market, Central bank, amid volatility, to draw conclusions. The stock market data (NSE) is subjected to VaR test.

Findings: The Study finds that country has responded quickly to the outbreak of the crisis by easing capital and liquidity requirements or at least refraining from the previously planned tightening. At the same time, the authors noticed that loan-based measures and minimum reserve requirements were rarely relaxed and risk weights were not changed at all. Digital tools like Algo trading, AI based advisory gained prominence

Conclusion: The impact of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic on financial system and the stock markets in India, is significant. But Monetary policy, liquidity operations and aid packages that were offered by the Government have minimized the impact to a large extent and brought the financial systems back onto the rail.

Key Words: Corona Virus, Financial Markets, Stock market, Algo trade.
Towards a De-Gendered Workplace: A Concept Note for Promoting Gender Equity and Inclusivity
Authors: Kannaiyan Saravanan , Neelamegam Arivarasan
Published: April 2024

This conceptual article delves into the imperative of developing a de-gendered workplace that fosters gender equity and inclusivity. Historically, workplaces have been shaped by traditional gender roles, perpetuating biases and discrimination. However, as societal attitudes evolve, the need to create an environment that transcends these norms and embraces diversity has become evident. This abstract outline the key elements and strategies to promote a de-gendered workplace that empowers all individuals, regardless of their gender identity.

The concept note emphasizes the importance of challenging and redefining gender roles within the workplace. By conducting workshops and training sessions, organizations can raise awareness among employees about gender stereotypes and biases, paving the way for more inclusive behaviors. Furthermore, addressing unconscious bias plays a pivotal role in promoting gender equity. Organizations are encouraged to invest in diversity training that facilitates self-awareness and empathy, empowering individuals to overcome inherent biases.

To achieve a de-gendered workplace, equal opportunities and representation are fundamental. Transparent hiring and promotion practices can eliminate gender-based discrimination, ensuring a level playing field for all employees. Flexible work policies that accommodate diverse needs, such as remote work options and parental leave, foster a supportive work environment and work-life balance.

Empowering leadership is instrumental in driving change. Leaders are urged to actively champion gender equity initiatives, set measurable goals, and lead by example. Promoting gender-inclusive language in all communications further contributes to a respectful and inclusive culture.
Editorial
Authors: K. S. Manu
Published: April 2024

The study provides an overview of the transformative applications of blockchain technology in the global business landscape. With its decentralized and secure nature, blockchain is reshaping traditional business models by fostering transparency, enhancing security, and optimizing operational efficiency. The study explores the impact of blockchain technology on the key sectors of the businesses focusing on both financial services (banks, insurance, and capital markets) and non-financial sectors (retail, travel, healthcare, telecommunications, public sector). Delving into the transformative impact, it explores hurdles like awareness, cultural shifts, cost, regulation, and security, emphasizing how blockchain presents a paradigm shift from traditional practices. The findings contribute to a nuanced understanding of blockchain's potential in reshaping business landscapes while addressing key challenges for widespread adoption.
Vaishnava Philosophy and the Poetic Aesthetics: An Analysis of Jayadeva’s Gitagovindam
Authors: Thakur Sayantan
Published: April 2024

Literature finds the best expression when literary aesthetics and philosophy run side by side. The former offers the external charm, while the latter inculcates the more profound implication with the aim of providing it with a superior stature and permanence. Jayadeva’s Gitagovindam, being a colossal work in the field of Vaishnava literature, does contain the brilliant juxtaposition of both. This article attempts to show how Jayadeva’s Gitagovindam, a colossal work in the field of Vaishnava literature, does contain the brilliant juxtaposition of both. On the one hand, like a typical lyrical poem, its melodic nature does have a soothing effect and on the other, the use of philosophy instils in it a greater depth and seriousness to uplift itself as a book of devotion and religious inspiration. Moreover, the importance of this Holy Scripture lies in the fact that it not only played a significant role in paving the way to form a new sect in the Vaishnava religion, known as ‘Gaudiya Vaishnavism’, but also showed the later Vaishnava lyricists the art of portraying in words the amorous love of Lord Krishna and Radha with compassion and tears.
Main ways to improve the quality of the work of the institute of postgraduate studies in Russia
Authors: Osipov Mikhail
Published: April 2024

The subject of research in this article are the features and patterns of postgraduate work in the Russian Federation. The purpose of the study is to consider the features and patterns of postgraduate work in the Russian Federation.

Among the research methods that were used in this study include: functional analysis, factor analysis, system analysis. At the same time, system analysis was used to analyze the management system for the training of scientific, pedagogical and scientific personnel in the Russian Federation; functional analysis was used to analyze the functioning of management systems for the training of scientific - pedagogical and scientific personnel in graduate school. Factor analysis was used to analyze the factors that affect the functioning of the management system for the training of scientific, pedagogical and scientific personnel in graduate school, both positive and negative.

In the course of the study, it was found that the effectiveness of postgraduate studies in the Russian Federation is largely determined by the quality of management of the process of training scientific, pedagogical and scientific personnel, starting from setting a goal: why does a university or research institute need postgraduate studies, and ending with an analysis of the results obtained, which consists in analyzing the quality of prepared and defended dissertations by graduate students of a particular university or research institute. This article also provides an analysis of the factors that affect the efficiency of postgraduate studies in the Russian Federation, and offers specific recommendations for improving the work of postgraduate schools in the Russian Federation, including through the conclusion of permanent or temporary contracts with postgraduate graduates who have successfully defended their dissertation for the degree of Candidate of Sciences.
Let the music sound from heart to heart
Authors: Maksimova S.
Published: April 2024

The article describes the practical experience of the children's creativity festival "Dialogue of Arts", organized as part of the innovative activities of the Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution "Institute of Art Education and Cultural Studies of the Russian Academy of Sciences". The starting point of the festival was the method of the innovative teacher E.Ya. Smelova "making music for everyone", who developed a musical instrument to introduce children to collaborative creativity, to reveal the creative potential of each child. Within the framework of the festival, the interaction of various areas of art is carried out - artistic and musical creativity, animation, dance, theatrical art and others, as well as the professional growth of teachers, the possibility of creative unification of children, parents and teachers.
Ways to implement state policy to preserve and strengthen traditional values when developing a school course "The world around us"
Authors: Borisov V. , Lovyagin S.
Published: April 2024

The article shows the main ways of implementing the state policy in the field of preserving and strengthening traditional Russian spiritual and moral values in the development of the «The World Around Us» course, reflected in the concept of the textbook for elementary school. The work was carried out within the framework of the state assignment of the Ministry of Education of the Rus-sian Federation on the theme № 123052200079-1 (EGISU R&D) «Development of the concept of teaching school courses "The World Around Us", "Social Studies", "Russian language", "Literature" in order to preserve and strengthen traditional Russian spiritual and moral values». The key results of the examination of the current federal work program «The World Around Us» for the im-plementation of the goals and objectives of the Decree of the President of the Russian Federation of 09.11.2022 № 809 «On Approval of the Fundamentals of State Policy for the Preservation and Strengthening of Traditional Russian Spiritual and Moral Values». Examples of the implementation of the state policy in the field of preserving and strengthening traditional Russian spiritual and moral values in the content of the course and the concept of the textbooks «The World Around Us» for grades 1-4 are given.
Theoretical substantiation of the principle of visibility and features of the use of visual aids in history lessons
Authors: Bulanova A.
Published: April 2024

The article examines the basics of the basic and oldest principle of learning – the principle of clarity, and also shows the importance of using a variety of visual aids for the educational process in general and for history lessons in particular.
Onde está o infotenimento? Análise dos telejornais maranhenses JMTV 1ª Edição e Hora D
Authors: Alves da Silva Marcelli , Medeiros Frida Bárbara
Published: April 2024

Este artigo busca discutir o infotenimento no contexto do telejornalismo maranhense e tem como a intenção compreender como funciona o processo. A metodologia utilizada foi a entrevista semiestruturada. O corpus se constitui por seis profissionais entrevistados, todos jornalistas. Três da tv Difusora, afiliada do Sistema Brasileiro de Televisão e três da tv Mirante, afiliada da Rede Globo de Televisão, ambas no estado do Maranhão. As entrevistas foram realizadas de forma presencial, no ano de 2022. Concluímos, que os telejornais analisados fazem uso do infotenimento de maneira coerente com as linhas editoriais da emissora e cumprem os requisitos de informar. Percebemos, também, que fatores como a função social do jornalismo, os procedimentos de marketing, as linhas editoriais como as empresas estão inseridas, ou o estilo do programa analisado, e a autonomia da equipe que produziu os telejornais devem ser levados em conta quando tratar da temática. Acreditamos que há reflexões necessárias a se fazer sobre quais caminhos o telejornalismo trilhará nos próximos anos.
A Behavioral Model of Responsible Sourcing in Supply Chains: The Role of Dual-Sourcing Bias
Authors: Mahmoudzadeh Mahdi , Chaturvedi Aadhaar
Published: April 2024

Decision on what consumer reactions (support or boycott) to promote is important for nongovernmental organizations and policymakers looking to influence firms’ adoption of corporate social responsibility practices. We study how consumer reactions—paying more for certified products or boycotting in the event of responsibility violations—are effective in improving a firm’s uptake of responsibility practices in the sourcing domain. We first build a stylized model to study how consumer reaction affects a firm’s incentives toward responsible sourcing and find that only boycotting reactions by consumers reliably increases a firm’s sourcing from responsible suppliers. We then include behavioral aspects to our stylized model to derive a more nuanced understanding of how consumer reactions affect responsible sourcing. Through behavioral experiments, we first show that a supporting consumer reaction induces a dual-sourcing bias in firms’ sourcing decisions. We then develop a behavioral model of responsible sourcing, incorporating this dual-sourcing bias. Our analysis modifies the normative predictions of the stylized model by showing that a supporting reaction, irrespective of magnitude, always improves responsible sourcing if the boycotting reaction from the market is weak, and that promoting a boycotting reaction always improves responsible sourcing, irrespective of the product type. Our results lead us to a comprehensive and applicable insight for practice: in the supply chains of products with few brand substitutes, creating a supporting reaction in the market is the way to improve firms’ responsible sourcing, and in supply chains of products with many brand substitutes, promoting a boycotting reaction among consumers will lead to more responsible sourcing.
PATIENT-REPORTED OUTCOME MEASURES AFTER OPEN LOWER LIMB FRACTURE REPAIR
Authors: Orekan Anita , Evans Eleanor , Cloake Thomas , Ward Jayne
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Open fractures are complex injuries associated with substantial morbidity. These injuries are associated with harm to both physical and emotional health as well as preclusion of work, social, and leisure activities. Patient reported outcome measures (PROMs) and health related quality of life are critical indicators of successful rehabilitation following open fracture treatment. This study aimed to measure the PROMs for patients with open lower limb fractures and investigate the relationship with injury severity.

Materials & Methods

A retrospective cohort study was performed at a single major trauma centre in the UK. All adult patients with an open lower limb fracture were eligible for inclusion. Patients were identified through a search of a local Open Fracture Database. Epidemiological, clinical, and fracture classification data were obtained by reviewing case notes. Lower Extremity Function Scale (LEFS) and EQ5-D were used as PROMs and measured by a postal questionnaire, alongside return to employment data.

Results

A total of 73 patients responded to the questionnaire. Median LEFS was 42 (IQR 26.5 – 59.5), and median EQ5-D was 0.69 (IQR 0.48 – 0.89). There was no significant association between open fracture classification and PROMs. Over 40% of patients reported a change in employment due to their injury. Those who changed jobs had a statistically significant reduction in the EQ5-D of 0.12 (p = 0.021); no significant difference existed in LEFS.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates the devastating functional impact of open fractures. This cohort of open injuries reported lower functional and quality-of-life measures compared to population norms. Injury classification was not a valuable predictor of PROMs. A substantial proportion of patients were forced to change employment due to their injury, and these patients reported a significantly lower quality of life. Further work is required to understand the factors contributing to open fracture PROMs.
Measurement of third order coherence by in situ autocorrelation for determining three-photon cross-sections
Authors: LaViolette Aaron K. , Rebec Mihailo R. , Xu Chris
Published: April 2024

We show theoretically that the third order coherence at zero delay can be obtained by measuring the second and third order autocorrelation traces of a pulsed laser. Our theory enables the measurement of a fluorophore’s three-photon cross-section without prior knowledge of the temporal profile of the excitation pulse by using the same fluorescent medium for both the measurement of the third order coherence at zero delay as well as the cross-section. Such an in situ measurement needs no assumptions about the pulse shape nor group delay dispersion of the optical system. To verify the theory experimentally, we measure the three-photon action cross-section of Alexa Fluor 350 and show that the measured value of the three-photon cross-section remains approximately constant despite varied amounts of chirp on the excitation pulses.
Ultra-broadband, high absorption, polarization-insensitive microwave absorbers designed based on multi-scale fractal metasurfaces
Authors: Yuan Zi-Hao , Cai Shun-Cheng , Zhao Yuan-Yuan , Duan Xuan-Ming
Published: April 2024

Microwave absorbers play an essential role in radar stealth applications. However, conventional microwave absorbers are hindered by limitations such as narrow bandwidth, large size, and inadequate absorption rates. Leveraging metasurfaces presents an ideal approach for creating microwave absorbers, but metasurface-based broadband absorbers typically entail intricate structures, natural absorbing materials, or electronic components, posing challenges in terms of fabrication and expansion. Here, we numerically demonstrate a simple multi-scale fractal metasurface microwave absorber, with the full width at half-maximum of band exceeding one optical octave. By integrating the localized surface plasmon resonance absorption band and the Salisbury-Screen-type absorption band, we achieve an average absorption of 90% ranging from 11.5 GHz to 27.1 GHz. Furthermore, this absorber exhibits excellent polarization insensitivity and maintains high absorption even at large incident angles. The device, offering both broadband absorption and a straightforward structure, holds significant promise for practical applications and widespread adoption.
Neuronal cell cycle reentry events in the aging brain are more prevalent in neurodegeneration and lead to cellular senescence
Authors: Wu Deng , Sun Jacquelyne Ka-Li , Chow Kim Hei-Man
Published: April 2024

Increasing evidence indicates that terminally differentiated neurons in the brain may recommit to a cell cycle-like process during neuronal aging and under disease conditions. Because of the rare existence and random localization of these cells in the brain, their molecular profiles and disease-specific heterogeneities remain unclear. Through a bioinformatics approach that allows integrated analyses of multiple single-nucleus transcriptome datasets from human brain samples, these rare cell populations were identified and selected for further characterization. Our analyses indicated that these cell cycle-related events occur predominantly in excitatory neurons and that cellular senescence is likely their immediate terminal fate. Quantitatively, the number of cell cycle re-engaging and senescent neurons decreased during the normal brain aging process, but in the context of late-onset Alzheimer’s disease (AD), these cells accumulate instead. Transcriptomic profiling of these cells suggested that disease-specific differences were predominantly tied to the early stage of the senescence process, revealing that these cells presented more proinflammatory, metabolically deregulated, and pathology-associated signatures in disease-affected brains. Similarly, these general features of cell cycle re-engaging neurons were also observed in a subpopulation of dopaminergic neurons identified in the Parkinson’s disease (PD)-Lewy body dementia (LBD) model. An extended analysis conducted in a mouse model of brain aging further validated the ability of this bioinformatics approach to determine the robust relationship between the cell cycle and senescence processes in neurons in this cross-species setting.
Second-line anti-retroviral treatment failure and its predictors among patients with HIV in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Kassie Gizachew Ambaw , Wolda Getahun Dendir , Woldegeorgis Beshada Zerfu , Gebrekidan Amanuel Yosef , Haile Kirubel Eshetu , Meskele Mengistu , Asgedom Yordanos Sisay
Published: April 2024

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) treatment failure remains a major public health concern, with multidimensional consequences, including an increased risk of drug resistance, compromised quality of life, and high healthcare costs. However, little is known about the outcomes of second-line ART in Ethiopia. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine the incidence and determinants of second-line ART treatment failure. Articles published in PubMed, Google Scholar, Science Direct, and Scopus databases were systematically searched. All observational studies on the incidence and predictors of treatment failure among patients with HIV on second-line ART were included. A random-effects model was used to estimate the pooled incidence, and subgroup analysis was performed to identify the possible sources of heterogeneity. Publication bias was checked using forest plot, Begg’s test, and Egger’s test. The pooled odds ratio was also computed for associated factors. Seven studies with 3,962 study participants were included in this study. The pooled incidence of second-line antiretroviral treatment failure was 5.98 (95% CI: 4.32, 7.63) per 100 person-years of observation. Being in the advanced WHO clinical stage at switch (AHR = 2.98, 95% CI: 2.11, 4.25), having a CD4 count <100 cells/mm3 (AHR = 2.14, 95% CI: 1.57, 2.91), poor drug adherence (AHR = 1.78, 95% CI: 1.4, 2.25), and tuberculosis co-infection (AHR = 2.93, 95% CI: 1.93, 4.34) were risk factors for treatment failure. In conclusion, this study revealed that that out of 100 person-years of follow-up, an estimated six patients with HIV who were on second-line antiretroviral therapy experienced treatment failure. The risk of treatment failure was higher in patients who were in an advanced WHO clinical stage, CD4 count <100 cells/mm3, and presence tuberculosis co-infection. Therefore, addressing predictors reduces the risk of treatment failure and maximizes the duration of stay in second-line regimens.
Development and validation of a race-agnostic computable phenotype for kidney health in adult hospitalized patients
Authors: Ozrazgat-Baslanti Tezcan , Ren Yuanfang , Adiyeke Esra , Islam Rubab , Hashemighouchani Haleh , Ruppert Matthew , Miao Shunshun , Loftus Tyler , Johnson-Mann Crystal , Madushani R. W. M. A. , Shenkman Elizabeth A. , Hogan William , Segal Mark S. , Lipori Gloria , Bihorac Azra , Hobson Charles
Published: April 2024

Standard race adjustments for estimating glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and reference creatinine can yield a lower acute kidney injury (AKI) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) prevalence among African American patients than non–race adjusted estimates. We developed two race-agnostic computable phenotypes that assess kidney health among 139,152 subjects admitted to the University of Florida Health between 1/2012–8/2019 by removing the race modifier from the estimated GFR and estimated creatinine formula used by the race-adjusted algorithm (race-agnostic algorithm 1) and by utilizing 2021 CKD-EPI refit without race formula (race-agnostic algorithm 2) for calculations of the estimated GFR and estimated creatinine. We compared results using these algorithms to the race-adjusted algorithm in African American patients. Using clinical adjudication, we validated race-agnostic computable phenotypes developed for preadmission CKD and AKI presence on 300 cases. Race adjustment reclassified 2,113 (8%) to no CKD and 7,901 (29%) to a less severe CKD stage compared to race-agnostic algorithm 1 and reclassified 1,208 (5%) to no CKD and 4,606 (18%) to a less severe CKD stage compared to race-agnostic algorithm 2. Of 12,451 AKI encounters based on race-agnostic algorithm 1, race adjustment reclassified 591 to No AKI and 305 to a less severe AKI stage. Of 12,251 AKI encounters based on race-agnostic algorithm 2, race adjustment reclassified 382 to No AKI and 196 (1.6%) to a less severe AKI stage. The phenotyping algorithm based on refit without race formula performed well in identifying patients with CKD and AKI with a sensitivity of 100% (95% confidence interval [CI] 97%–100%) and 99% (95% CI 97%–100%) and a specificity of 88% (95% CI 82%–93%) and 98% (95% CI 93%–100%), respectively. Race-agnostic algorithms identified substantial proportions of additional patients with CKD and AKI compared to race-adjusted algorithm in African American patients. The phenotyping algorithm is promising in identifying patients with kidney disease and improving clinical decision-making.
Khat consumption and undernutrition among adult population in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Oumer Abdu
Published: April 2024

Background

In Ethiopia, malnutrition is a public health threat causing a significant burden of morbidity, mortality, and economic crisis. Simultaneously, khat consumption is alarmingly increasing among adults, yet it might contribute to the existing burden of malnutrition, where the current evidence is inconclusive. Hence, this review was to estimate the association between khat consumption and undernutrition among adults in Ethiopia.

Methods

A comprehensive search for Google, Google Scholar, and PubMed, coupled with a thorough manual search of the literature, was done up to date, October 18, 2023, using relevant search terms: “impact," "effects," “khat chewing," “khat consumption," "Ethiopia," “nutritional status," and "undernutrition." An updated PRISMA guideline was used to select relevant literature. The extracted data was summarized in narrative summaries, descriptions, and meta-analyses. The risk of bias was assessed. The results are presented in forest plots and funnel plots to assess publication bias. A pooled effect size (odds ratio) with a 95% certainty level was reported.

Results

While a total of 17 articles (n = 45,679) were included in the narrative review, only 15 articles were included in the quantitative meta-analysis. The majority of studies had a low and moderate risk of bias (based on risk of bias assessment tool), mainly due to unclear exposure assessment and high study heterogeneity. A total of 11 studies were cross-sectional studies (71%), three were comparative studies (17.4%), and three were case control studies (17.4%). There is a higher risk of publication bias as evidenced by the funnel plot. Overall, five studies were from the Oromia region, and three studies were conducted at the national level. Overall, chewing had been shown to significantly increase the risk of undernutrition by 53% (pooled OR = 1.53; 95% CI: 1.09–2.16) under a random effect model. Under the fixed effect model, higher weight was given to national-level studies with higher samples, where chewing contributed to a 12% increased risk of undernutrition (AOR = 1.12; 95% CI: 1.01–2.23). Hence, khat chewing could raise the odds of undernutrition by 12–53%.

Conclusion

There is evidence of an association between khat chewing and an increased risk of undernutrition among adults in Ethiopia, which highlights the need for public health interventions to address the potential adverse effects of khat chewing on nutritional status.
Causal relationships of Helicobacter pylori and related gastrointestinal diseases on Type 2 diabetes: Univariable and Multivariable Mendelian randomization
Authors: Sun Mei , Zhang Zhe , Zhang Jingjing , Zhang Juewei , Jia Zhuqiang , Zhao Lin , Han Xin , Sun Xiaohong , Zong Junwei , Zhu Ying , Wang Shouyu
Published: April 2024

Background

Previous observational studies have demonstrated a connection between the risk of Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and gastrointestinal problems brought on by Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection. However, little is understood about how these factors impact on T2DM.

Method

This study used data from the GWAS database on H. pylori antibodies, gastroduodenal ulcers, chronic gastritis, gastric cancer, T2DM and information on potential mediators: obesity, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and blood glucose levels. Using univariate Mendelian randomization (MR) and multivariate MR (MVMR) analyses to evaluate the relationship between H. pylori and associated gastrointestinal diseases with the risk of developing of T2DM and explore the presence of mediators to ascertain the probable mechanisms.

Results

Genetic evidence suggests that H. pylori IgG antibody (P = 0.006, b = 0.0945, OR = 1.0995, 95% CI = 1.023–1.176), H. pylori GroEL antibody (P = 0.028, OR = 1.033, 95% CI = 1.004–1.064), gastroduodenal ulcers (P = 0.019, OR = 1.036, 95% CI = 1.006–1.068) and chronic gastritis (P = 0.005, OR = 1.042, 95% CI = 1.012–1.074) are all linked to an increased risk of T2DM, additionally, H. pylori IgG antibody is associated with obesity (P = 0.034, OR = 1.03, 95% CI = 1.002–1.055). The results of MVMR showed that the pathogenic relationship between H. pylori GroEL antibody and gastroduodenal ulcer in T2DM is mediated by blood glucose level and obesity, respectively.

Conclusion

Our study found that H. pylori IgG antibody, H. pylori GroEL antibody, gastroduodenal ulcer and chronic gastritis are all related to t T2DM, and blood glucose level and obesity mediate the development of H. pylori GroEL antibody and gastroduodenal ulcer on T2DM, respectively. These findings may inform new prevention and intervention strategies for T2DM.
Identifying areas of Australia with high out-of-hospital cardiac arrest incidence and low bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation rates: A retrospective, observational study
Authors: Doan Tan , Howell Stuart , Ball Stephen , Finn Judith , Cameron Peter , Bosley Emma , Dicker Bridget , Faddy Steven , Nehme Ziad , Heriot Natalie , Swain Andy , Thorrowgood Melanie , Thomas Andrew , Perillo Samuel , McDermott Mike , Smith Tony , Smith Karen , Belcher Jason , Bray Janet ,   on behalf of the Aus-ROC OHCA Epistry Management Committee
Published: April 2024

Aim

This study aims to explore regional variation and identify regions within Australia with high incidence of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) and low rates of bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

Method

Adult OHCAs of presumed medical aetiology occurring across Australia between 2017 and 2019 were mapped onto local government areas (LGA) using the location of arrest coordinates. Bayesian spatial models were applied to provide “smoothed” estimates of OHCA incidence and bystander CPR rates (for bystander-witnessed OHCAs) for each LGA. For each state and territory, high-risk LGAs were defined as those with an incidence rate greater than the state or territory’s 75th percentile and a bystander CPR rate less than the state or territory’s 25th percentile.

Results

A total of 62,579 OHCA cases attended by emergency medical services across 543 LGAs nationwide were included in the study. Nationally, the OHCA incidence rate across LGA ranged from 58.5 to 198.3 persons per 100,000, while bystander CPR rates ranged from 45% to 75%. We identified 60 high-risk LGAs, which were predominantly located in the state of New South Wales. Within each region, high-risk LGAs were typically located in regional and remote areas of the country, except for four metropolitan areas–two in Adelaide and two in Perth.

Conclusions

We have identified high-risk LGAs, characterised by high incidence and low bystander CPR rates, which are predominantly in regional and remote areas of Australia. Strategies for reducing OHCA and improving bystander response may be best targeted at these regions.
Experimental research on the influence of acid on the chemical and pore structure evolution characteristics of Wenjiaba tectonic coal
Authors: Li Xianxian , Li Xijian , Xu Enyu , Xie Honggao , Sui Hao , Cai Junjie , He Yuhuan
Published: April 2024

The chemical and pore structures of coal play a crucial role in determining the content of free gas in coal reservoirs. This study focuses on investigating the impact of acidification transformation on the micro-physical and chemical structure characteristics of coal samples collected from Wenjiaba No. 1 Mine in Guizhou. The research involves a semi-quantitative analysis of the chemical structure parameters and crystal structure of coal samples before and after acidification using Fourier Transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) experiments. Additionally, the evolution characteristics of the pore structure are characterized through high-pressure mercury injection (HP-MIP), low-temperature nitrogen adsorption (LT-N2A), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The experimental findings reveal that the acid solution modifies the structural features of coal samples, weakening certain vibrational structures and altering the chemical composition. Specifically, the asymmetric vibration structure of aliphatic CH2, the asymmetric vibration of aliphatic CH3, and the symmetric vibration of CH2 are affected. This leads to a decrease in the contents of -OH and -NH functional groups while increasing aromatic structures. The crystal structure of coal samples primarily dissolves transversely after acidification, affecting intergranular spacing and average height. Acid treatment corrodes mineral particles within coal sample cracks, augmenting porosity, average pore diameter, and the ratio of macro-pores to transitional pores. Moreover, acidification increases fracture width and texture, enhancing the connectivity of the fracture structure in coal samples. These findings provide theoretical insights for optimizing coalbed methane (CBM) extraction and gas control strategies.
Integrating Artificial Intelligence in Academic Libraries
Authors: C Mallikarjuna
Published: April 2024

This article presents a literature review on integrating artificial intelligence (AI) in academic libraries, focusing on the transformative impact of AI-based tools and services on library management, resource utilisation, and research experience. While AI offers promising solutions to increase efficiency and effectiveness, the review identifies several challenges and concerns that need to be addressed, such as ethical and privacy considerations, staff training and development, and a user-centered approach. To integrate AI successfully, libraries must collaborate with professionals, researchers, and policymakers and adopt a continuing education approach to AI. Overcoming resistance to technological change, communicating efforts, and engaging staff are essential for libraries to leverage AI’s potential benefits and enhance their services and operations.