bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does climate policy uncertainty affect carbon emissions in China? A novel dynamic ARDL simulation perspective
Authors: Tian Lihui , Li Xin
Published: October 2023

This study provides new insights into the impact of climate policy uncertainty, energy consumption, and economic development on China’s carbon emissions. In doing so, we develop a novel index of China’s climate policy uncertainty (CCPU). We then use the newly constructed dynamic autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) simulation model, the frequency-domain causality (FDC) test, and the fully modified OLS (FMOLS) estimation to investigate these potential relationships from 2005 to 2021. The empirical results suggest that increasing CCPU reduces carbon emissions in most parts of China, which improves environmental degradation. Furthermore, the effects of energy consumption and economic growth on carbon emissions are confirmed to be positive in each location. Finally, the results of the FDC and FMOLS confirm the robustness of the model. Our findings suggest that information from the CCPU can be used to forecast CO2 emissions in China. Furthermore, the government should strike a balance between economic growth and environmental regulation and promote the use of renewable energy to reduce carbon emissions. Proactively developing climate policy is important to achieve the goal of carbon neutrality.
Extra-curricular support for entrepreneurship among engineering students: development of entrepreneurial self-efficacy and intentions
Authors: Subhadrammal Deepa , Bliemel Martin , Bressan Alessandro , de Burgh-Woodman Helene
Published: October 2023

This study seeks to understand the impact of extra-curricular entrepreneurship support within a University Based Entrepreneurial Ecosystem (UBEE) on the entrepreneurial self-efficacy and entrepreneurial intentions of engineering students in India. A UBEE can directly affect the likelihood that students identify and exploit entrepreneurial opportunities, which, affects their entrepreneurial intentions. However, there is a dearth of research investigating the impact of university entrepreneurial support initiatives on engineering students’ entrepreneurial intentions and entrepreneurial self-efficacy. This is especially true in the Indian context despite its start-up friendly policies. This study aims to address this gap and contribute to advance knowledge in the area of UBEE research. Grounded in Social Cognitive Theory, this study takes an ecosystem approach that considers the interactions and inter-dependencies among different elements of UBEE, such as entrepreneurial support initiatives and students’ beliefs and intentions to start up. This study adopts a quantitative research design. Survey data was collected from 314 undergraduate engineering students from five engineering colleges in South India and data was analysed using structural equation modelling. Results suggest that the extracurricular support programs within a UBEE significantly influences beliefs of entrepreneurial self-efficacy in students, which in turn predicts the intentions of students to startup new ventures. This study found that entrepreneurial self-efficacy has a mediating effect between the extracurricular support programs and entrepreneurial intentions of engineering students. Findings of this study have several practical and policy implications for government, university management and entrepreneurship educators. This study contributes to the emerging literature on engineering entrepreneurship education.
Principals’ strategies for the effective management and implementation of HIV intervention programmes for adolescent girls in secondary schools
Authors: Ndlovu Proper , Potokri Onoriode Collins
Published: October 2023

The goal of this study was to understand the approaches that principals use for HIV prevention in schools and, on that basis, to offer strategies that can be effectively implemented to improve HIV intervention programmes for adolescent girls in South African secondary schools. The research was conducted in four districts in the Gauteng province: Johannesburg, Ekurhuleni, Tshwane and Sedibeng. A non-experimental qualitative, explorative, phenomenological design was used to better understand the problem. Individual interviews were conducted with participants who were purposively chosen from secondary schools in these areas. According to the findings, strengthening the delivery systems for HIV intervention programmes for adolescent girls may be the key to combating the escalation of new HIV infections among these girls. This qualitative study produced participant-reported empirical data, giving researchers a new perspective on the education leadership matters that contribute to addressing the ineffective management and execution of HIV programmes for adolescent girls.
Nanomechanical pumping of Cooper pairs through NS junction
Authors: Kulinich S. I. , Gorelik L. Y. , Shekhter R. I.
Published: October 2023

We consider a system consisting of a single-level quantum dot that performs mechanical periodic oscillations between spatially distant normal and superconducting electrodes, approaching them at a distance that allows the exchange of electrons through the vacuum tunnel barrier. Considering that the distance between the electrodes is much greater than the tunneling length, we show that charge pumping occurs in such a nanosystem even when the electrochemical potentials of the electrodes coincide. In this case, the direction of the electron flow is determined by the position of the quantum dot level relative to the electrochemical potential in bulk electrodes. The latter can be controlled by applying a voltage between the ground and the electrodes. It is also shown that the value of the average current is critically sensitive to the strength of the tunnel coupling between the quantum dot and the superconducting electrode, which, in turn, is controlled by the amplitude of mechanical oscillations.
High-frequency transport properties of a 2D electron gas with spin-orbit interaction under magnetic field driven topological transition
Authors: Kolesnichenko Yu. A. , Stepanenko D. I.
Published: October 2023

We study the transport properties of a two-dimensional electron system with an essential spin-orbit interaction under topological phase transition due to changing in-plane magnetic field. We have analyzed the contribution of diagonal and off-diagonal components of density matrix with respect to number of spin zone in the high-frequency conductivity. Analytical formulas for the conductivity tensor have been obtained. A numerical analysis giving full enough representation about the dependence of the conductivity on frequency and magnetic field is presented. We have shown that the contribution of the off-diagonal elements of density matrix is the greater than the higher the frequency of the alternating electromagnetic field. It has been established that for magnetic field value at which the minimum electron energy of upper spin zone exceeds the Fermi energy, the conductivity as a function of magnetic field change in discrete step.
Effects of losses on the transmission and reflection of electromagnetic waves at the interface of metamaterial with zero real part of permittivity
Authors: Bukhanko A. F.
Published: October 2023

Electromagnetic wave refraction and reflection at the interface between vacuum and lossy metamaterial with zero real part of permittivity are analytically described by macroscopic classical electrodynamics. The analytical model is based on exact solutions of electromagnetic boundary problems. We have good reason to believe that in lossy metamaterial with zero real part of permittivity, the values of the magnetic field and energy flow are nonzero due to the crucial role of losses in epsilon-near-zero metamaterials. It is shown that the significant transmission of waves occurs for almost all incident angles. Moreover, the transmission coefficient increases with increasing loss for TE and TM wave polarizations. Numerical results are presented to show that the optical characteristics of waves at the interface of the metamaterial are highly sensitive to the losses and polarization of waves. The effect of the losses is most pronounced for transverse electric waves. The main contribution of this article is the characterization of the role of losses in the optical properties of epsilon-near-zero metamaterials that differs from some analogs known in the literature.
Microscopic shell-model description of irrotational-flow dynamics in 102Pd
Authors: Ganev H. G.
Published: October 2023

The structure of the low-lying collective excitations in

Pd is examined within the recently proposed microscopic shell-model version of the Bohr-Mottelson (BM) collective model. A good description of the excitation energies of the lowest ground, γ, and β bands, as well as the staggering function between the collective states of the γ band and some other energy-dependent quantities, is obtained. The low-energy intraband and interband quadrupole dynamics is reasonably well described within the present proton-neutron sympletic based shell-model approach without the use of an effective charge and compared with the predictions of nuclear structure models. The obtained results of the present study shed light on the question of the existence of irrotational-flow type quadrupole dynamics, which lies on the ground of the original BM model of quantized vibrations and surface-wave rotations in atomic nuclei.
Benchmarking single-cell hashtag oligo demultiplexing methods
Authors: Howitt George , Feng Yuzhou , Tobar Lucas , Vassiliadis Dane , Hickey Peter , Dawson Mark A , Ranganathan Sarath , Shanthikumar Shivanthan , Neeland Melanie , Maksimovic Jovana , Oshlack Alicia
Published: October 2023

Sample multiplexing is often used to reduce cost and limit batch effects in single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) experiments. A commonly used multiplexing technique involves tagging cells prior to pooling with a hashtag oligo (HTO) that can be sequenced along with the cells’ RNA to determine their sample of origin. Several tools have been developed to demultiplex HTO sequencing data and assign cells to samples. In this study, we critically assess the performance of seven HTO demultiplexing tools: hashedDrops, HTODemux, GMM-Demux, demuxmix, deMULTIplex, BFF (bimodal flexible fitting) and HashSolo. The comparison uses data sets where each sample has also been demultiplexed using genetic variants from the RNA, enabling comparison of HTO demultiplexing techniques against complementary data from the genetic ‘ground truth’. We find that all methods perform similarly where HTO labelling is of high quality, but methods that assume a bimodal count distribution perform poorly on lower quality data. We also suggest heuristic approaches for assessing the quality of HTO counts in an scRNA-seq experiment.
Establishment of Hp(3) calibration system for eye dose monitoring in Taiwan
Authors: Wu Chiao-An , Chiu Min-Chi , Huang Tseng-Te , Lin Yi-Chun , Chu Chien-Hau
Published: October 2023

In response to the ICRP’s amending the occupational exposure limit for the eye lens, the Institute of Nuclear Energy Research (INER) established the Hp(3) calibration system for eye dose monitoring in Taiwan to accurately assess the dose received in the eye lens. INER employed the narrow-spectrum series radiation according to the ISO 4037 as the X-ray radiation qualities, and the measured half-value layer consistent with a 5% difference. The air kerma rate standard was determined by the self-made free air chamber, and through dose conversion coefficient referring to ISO 4037 to obtain the Hp(3) on an ISO cylinder phantom. Furthermore, the calibration system was provided as the characteristics tests for DOSIRIS headset dosemeters. Finally, the Hp(3) calibration system has been established in Taiwan, and it can be used to provide calibration services for eye lens dosemeters and be applied to the proficiency testing that will be held in 2023.
Simulation of Hp(0,07) beta and photon response of a BeOSL finger ring dosemeter
Authors: Bandalo Vedran , Hoedlmoser Herbert
Published: October 2023

Simulation of a dosemeter’s energy and angular response lowers development cost and time. To support development of a new beta sensitive dosemeter we simulate both the dosemeter and the skin dose in a rod phantom as there are no fluence to dose conversion coefficients in the ICRU Report 47 for electrons. Published spectra for BSS2, N-Series and S-Cs and S-Co were used to define sources, with CAD models used to define the simulation geometry. Simulation tools were validated with experimental beta and photon responses available for the BeOSL photon ring. The developed toolchain was then used to simulate several iterations of a beta sensitive detector element inside a beta ring holder, with the goal to minimise the need for repeated prototype fabrication and characterisation. Simulation results for the final design were compared to measurements on 3D printed prototypes with all radiation qualities, except 90Sr/90Y 0°, falling within measurement uncertainty.
A review of Merkel cell carcinoma
Authors: Juan Hui Yu , Khachemoune Amor
Published: October 2023

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare and aggressive type of metastatic, nonmelanoma skin cancer derived from Merkel cells in the epidermis. MCC can be induced by sun exposure or via Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCV) gene expression. MCV is found in most patients with MCC and is associated with a lower recurrence rate of MCC. MCC has a wide range of clinical presentations that make diagnosis challenging. Histologic examination is performed using unique markers to differentiate it from other diagnoses. This article reviews the pathogenesis, clinical presentation, histopathology, differential diagnosis, and treatment of MCC.
Postoperative Opioid Prescribing Practices and Patient Opioid Utilization in Pediatric Orthopaedic Surgery Patients
Authors: Mullen Marguerite A. , Kim Kang Woo , Procaccini Michaela , Shipp Michael M. , Schiller Jonathan R. , Eberson Craig P. , Cruz Aristides I.
Published: October 2023

Introduction:

Amid a national opioid epidemic, it is essential to review the necessity of opioid prescriptions. Research in adults has demonstrated patients often do not use their entire postoperative opioid prescription. Limited data suggest that the trend is similar in children. This study investigated the prescription volume and postoperative utilization rate of opioids among pediatric orthopaedic surgery patients at our institution.

Methods:

We identified pediatric patients (ages below 18 y old) who presented to our institution for operating room intervention from May 24, 2021, to December 13, 2021. Patient demographics and opioid prescription volume were recorded. Parents and guardians were surveyed by paper “opioid diary” or phone interview between postoperative days 10 to 15, assessing pain level, opioid use, and plans for remaining opioid doses. Wilcoxon rank-sum test, Independent t test, and Pearson correlation were used for the analysis of continuous variables. Multivariable logistic regression was used to control for patient demographic variables while analyzing opioid usage relationships.

Results:

Prescription volume information was collected for 280 patients during the study period. We were able to collect utilization information for 102 patients (Group 1), whereas the remaining 178 patients contributed only prescription volume data (Group 2). Patients with upper extremity fractures received significantly fewer opioid doses at discharge compared with other procedure types (P=0.036). Higher BMI was positively correlated with more prescribed opioid doses (R
2=0.647, P<0.001). The mean opioid utilization rate was 22.37%. A total of 50.6% of patients prescribed opioids at discharge used zero doses. A total of 96.2% of patients used opioids for 5 days or less. Most families had not disposed of excess medication by postoperative day 10.

Conclusions:

We found significant differences in opioid prescribing practices based on patient and procedure-specific variables. In addition, although our pediatric orthopaedic surgery patients had low overall rates of postoperative opioid utilization, there was significant variation in opioid use among procedure types. These results provide insights that can guide opioid prescribing practices for pediatric orthopaedic patients and promote patient education to ensure safe opioid disposal.
Incidence of Skin Sensitivity Following Dermabond Application in Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery
Authors: Koritz Katherine , Canizares Maria Fernanda , Cook Danielle , Shore Benjamin J.
Published: October 2023

Background:

Dermabond (Dermabond; Ethicon, Sommerville, NJ), is a skin adhesive commonly utilized in pediatric orthopedic surgery for postoperative wound care. Few studies have examined outcomes of Dermabond exposure in children. The purpose of this study is to estimate the incidence of skin reactions following Dermabond exposure in pediatric orthopedic surgery and investigate potential risk factors associated with Dermabond sensitivity.

Methods:

This was a retrospective study of a level-one pediatric trauma center. All orthopaedic surgeries in 2019 were screened for Dermabond application. Three surgeons with the highest rates of Dermabond application defined our cohort. Out of 2990 surgeries in 2019, the 3 surgeons performed 234 surgeries with Dermabond. Postoperative reactions and repeat Dermabond exposures were collected for these 234 patients. Subjects with known allergies to Dermabond were excluded. Reactions were defined. as discoloration, irritation, and wound dehiscence. Significant differences between patients with repeat Dermabond exposures and those without were determined using χ2 analysis. Associations between patient characteristics and sensitivity were determined using logistic regression analysis. P values less than 0.05 were considered significant.

Results:

In all, 234 patients were included for analysis. The mean age at surgery was 12.5 years (SD 6.1), and 39% (92/234) of the cohort was male. Thirty-two patients (14%) experienced skin reactions during the study period (95% CI=7%–19%). Reactions most frequently included. erythema (10/32; 31%) and itchiness (10/32; 31%). Reactions were most frequently treated with oral antibiotics, Benadryl, or a dressing change. Of 144 patients with 1 Dermabond exposure, 17 (12%) experienced reactions (95% CI=7%–18%). Of 128 patients experiencing a repeat Dermabond exposure, 27 (21%) experienced reactions (95% CI=19%–34%, P=0.03). Age, surgical procedure, and surgical location were not, associated with a variable rate of sensitivity.

Conclusions:

Sensitivity to Dermabond after pediatric orthopedic surgery occurred at a higher rate than seen in adults, and patients with multiple Dermabond exposures experienced significantly higher sensitivity than patients with a single exposure. Increased awareness of this potential complication is needed to help inform decisions regarding Dermabond’s application in pediatric orthopedics.
The Relationship between the Bevel of the Radial Head Epiphysis and the Posterior Synovial Fringe During Rotation of the Elbow: An Ultrasonography Study with Possible Implications Regarding the Pathophysiology of Nursemaid’s Elbow
Authors: Tsai Chia-Che , Chiang Yi-Pin
Published: October 2023

Background:

Nursemaid’s elbow is the most common upper extremity injury in children under 5 years of age. However, the exact pathomechanism underlying the nursemaid’s elbow remains elusive, and approximate one-third of patients present with a nonclassical history. Using a high-frequency ultrasound probe, we attempted to determine the relationship between the anterior edge of the posterior synovial fringe and the peripheral rim of the radial head epiphysis during rotation. It is possible that the primary reason for the nursemaid’s elbow is due to the pronator position.

Methods:

Twenty-one patients had a history of nursemaid’s elbow and had a successful reduction before enrollment in this study. A high-frequency linear array 6 to 24 MHz hockey stick transducer was used to detect small morphologic changes in the peripheral rim of the radial head epiphysis and the posterior synovial fringe during rotation of the capitellum-radial joint.

Results:

In complete pronation, the anterior edge of the posterior synovial fringe contacts the beveled articular surface of the radial head peripheral rim in all 21 patients. In neutral and complete supination, the anterior edge of the posterior synovial fringe contacts the convexly nonarticular surface of the radial head peripheral rim and extends deep into the foveal radius. The posterior synovial fringe and the capsule-aponeurotic membrane were tightened in passive pronation in all 21 cases. The posterior synovial fringe and the capsule-aponeurosis membrane were all loose in the neutral and supination positions.

Conclusion:

The anterior edge of the posterior synovial fringe touches the beveled peripheral rim of the radial head epiphysis during complete pronation, and the tension of the lateral collateral ligament complex during pronation may further cause unstable conditions of the anterior edge of the posterior synovial fringe. We hypothesized that the beveled peripheral rim of the radial epiphysis and its relationship with the anterior edge of the posterior synovial fringe could be the reason why nursemaid’s elbow only occurs while the elbow is in the pronator position.
Dysregulated meta-organismal metabolism of aromatic amino acids in alcohol-associated liver disease
Authors: Mrdjen Marko , Huang Emily , Pathak Vai , Bellar Annette , Welch Nicole , Dasarathy Jaividhya , Streem David , McClain Craig J. , Mitchell Mack , Radaeva Svetlana , Barton Bruce , Szabo Gyongyi , Dasarathy Srinivasan , Wang Zeneng , Hazen Stanley L. , Brown J. Mark , Nagy Laura E.
Published: October 2023

Background:

Chronic alcohol consumption impairs gut barrier function and perturbs the gut microbiome. Although shifts in bacterial communities in patients with alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) have been characterized, less is known about the interactions between host metabolism and circulating microbe-derived metabolites during the progression of ALD.

Methods:

A large panel of gut microbiome-derived metabolites of aromatic amino acids was quantified by stable isotope dilution liquid chromatography with online tandem mass spectrometry in plasma from healthy controls (n = 29), heavy drinkers (n = 10), patients with moderate (n = 16) or severe alcohol-associated hepatitis (n = 40), and alcohol-associated cirrhosis (n = 10).

Results:

The tryptophan metabolites, serotonin and indole-3-propionic acid, and tyrosine metabolites, p-cresol sulfate, and p-cresol glucuronide, were decreased in patients with ALD. Patients with severe alcohol-associated hepatitis and alcohol-associated cirrhosis had the largest decrease in concentrations of tryptophan and tyrosine-derived metabolites compared to healthy control. Western blot analysis and interrogation of bulk RNA sequencing data from patients with various liver pathologies revealed perturbations in hepatic expression of phase II metabolism enzymes involved in sulfonation and glucuronidation in patients with severe forms of ALD.

Conclusions:

We identified several metabolites decreased in ALD and disruptions of hepatic phase II metabolism. These results indicate that patients with more advanced stages of ALD, including severe alcohol-associated hepatitis and alcohol-associated cirrhosis, had complex perturbations in metabolite concentrations that likely reflect both changes in the composition of the gut microbiome community and the ability of the host to enzymatically modify the gut-derived metabolites.
Lactulose in cirrhosis: Current understanding of efficacy, mechanism, and practical considerations
Authors: Bloom Patricia P. , Tapper Elliot B.
Published: October 2023

HE is a complication of cirrhosis characterized by neuropsychiatric and motor dysfunction, and results in decreased quality of life and increased mortality. Lactulose is a synthetic disaccharide used to treat HE since 1966, though many questions about its use remain unanswered. Lactulose reverses minimal HE, prevents overt HE, improves quality of life, increases the rate of recovery from overt HE, and improves survival rates. Lactulose’s clinical effect appears to be derived from its impact on intestinal microbes, likely a result of its enteric acidifying effect, positive pressure on beneficial taxa, and improvement of gut barrier function. There are several practical considerations with lactulose including (1) a need to avoid excessive bowel movements and subsequent dehydration, (2) treatment titration protocols need further investigation, (3) baseline or treatment-induced gastrointestinal side effects limit adherence in some cases, and (4) the utility of monitoring stool consistency or pH remains unknown. Further research is needed to optimize our use of this effective treatment for HE.
Noncanonical regulation of HOIL-1 on cancer stemness and sorafenib resistance identifies pixantrone as a novel therapeutic agent for HCC
Authors: Chen Peng , Dong Zheyu , Zhu Wei , Chen Junling , Zhou Yuxin , Ye Qiuyue , Liao Xinxin , Tan Yongfa , Li Chuanjiang , Wang Yuhao , Pang Huajin , Wen Chunhua , Jiang Yuchuan , Li Xiaoqing , Li Bo , Aimaier Aihetaimu , Lin Li , Sun Jian , Hou Jiajie , Tang Libo , Hou Jinlin , Li Yongyin
Published: October 2023

Background and Aims:

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) contribute to therapy resistance in HCC. Linear ubiquitin chain assembly complex (LUBAC) has been reported to accelerate the progression of cancers, yet its role in the sorafenib response of HCC is poorly defined. Herein, we investigated the impact of LUBAC on sorafenib resistance and the CSC properties of HCC, and explored the potential targeted drugs.

Approach and Results:

We found that HOIL-1, but not the other components of LUBAC, played a contributing role in LUBAC-mediated HCC sorafenib resistance, independent of its ubiquitin ligase activity. Both in vitro and in vivo assays revealed that the upregulated HOIL-1 expression enhanced the CSC properties of HCC. Mechanistically, HOIL-1 promoted sorafenib resistance and the CSC properties of HCC through Notch1 signaling. Mass spectrometry, co-immunoprecipitation, western blot, and immunofluorescence were used to determine that the A64/Q65 residues of HOIL-1 bound with the K78 residue of Numb, resulting in impaired Numb-mediated Notch1 lysosomal degradation. Notably, pixantrone was screened out by Autodock Vina, which was validated to disrupt HOIL-1/Numb interaction to inhibit Notch1 signaling and CSC properties by targeting the Q65 residue of HOIL-1. Moreover, pixantrone exerted synergistic effects with sorafenib for the treatment of HCC in different HCC mouse models.

Conclusions:

HOIL-1 is critical in promoting sorafenib resistance and CSC properties of HCC through Notch1 signaling. Pixantrone targeting HOIL-1 restrains the sorafenib resistance and provides a potential therapeutic intervention for HCC.
Acupuncture Legislation in the United States: Minnesota as a Case Study
Authors: Gong Changzhen
Published: October 2023

2023 marks the 50th anniversary of legal regulation of acupuncture in the United States, as the first acupuncture law was enacted in Nevada. Acupuncture, like any other medical modality, is regulated at the state level, with each state formulating and enforcing its own laws and statutes over time. This article narrates the legislative process and major developments of the acupuncture profession in Minnesota, in the context of legislative developments across the country. It tells how this midsize, Midwest state’s acupuncture profession became regulated, and examines the challenges faced by the profession before and after state statutes were enacted. Minnesota stands as a representative example of the legislative process in other states.
Molecular evolution and adaptation of SARS-CoV-2 omicron XBB sub-lineage Spike protein under African Selection pressure.
Authors: Kambarami Milton Simbarashe , Ngorima Godwins , Moyo Praise Khulani , Mabaya Lucy , Mushiri Tawanda , Manasa Justen
Published: October 2023

The Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2, which is a cause of concern, has various mutations in its spike protein. This protein is responsible for both viral infection and immunity. We have analyzed a particular sub-lineage of Omicron, designated XBB, which has undergone structural and functional changes in its spike protein as a response to the African selection pressures. Using molecular modeling, we compared the S protein structures of Omicron and XBB and discovered that XBB has a reduced receptor-binding domain (RBD) because of the loss of some β-sheets. This change may result in an increased affinity of XBB towards the human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (hACE2) receptor. We also conducted selection and recombination analysis of the S protein sequences of Omicron and XBB using Fast Unconstrained Bayesian Approximation (FUBAR) and Recombination Detection Program 4 (RDP 4). Our analysis detected signals of positive selection and recombination in the N-terminal domain (NTD) of the S1 subunit, which contains antibody-binding epitopes, and the RBD, which is involved in viral entry. Our findings reveal the structural and functional adaptation of the Omicron XBB variant in Africa and its potential implications for viral pathogenesis and immunity.
Suppressor mutants demonstrate the metabolic plasticity of unsaturated fatty acid synthesis in Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1
Authors: Dong Huijuan , Cronan John E.
Published: October 2023

Pseudomonas aeruginosa

PAO1 has two aerobic pathways for synthesis of unsaturated fatty acids (UFAs), DesA and DesB plus the oxygen independent FabAB pathway. The DesA desaturase acts on saturated acyl chains of membrane phospholipid bilayers whereas the substrates of the DesB desaturase are thought to be long chain saturated acyl-CoA thioesters derived from exogeneous saturated fatty acids that are required to support DesB-dependent growth. Under suitable aerobic conditions either of these membrane-bound desaturates can support growth of P. aeruginosa ∆fabA strains lacking the oxygen independent FabAB pathway. We previously studied function of the desA desaturase of

P. putida

in a P. aeruginosa ∆fabA ∆desA strain that required supplementation with a UFA for growth and noted bypass suppression of the P. aeruginosa ∆fabA ∆desA strain that restored UFA synthesis. We report three genes encoding lipid metabolism proteins that give rise to suppressor strains that bypass loss of the DesA and oxygen independent FabAB pathways.
The influence of financial market development on de jure central bank independence in the Asia–Pacific
Authors: Chee-Hong Law
Published: October 2023

Purpose

This study investigates the impact of financial development, measured by the ratio of broad money to gross domestic products, on de jure central bank (CB) independence (CBI) in 17 countries in the Asia–Pacific region from 1995 to 2014.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses the feasible generalized least squares (FGLS) approach, which is suitable since the CBI equation suffers from contemporaneous correlation, serial correlation and heteroscedasticity.

Findings

The FGLS results suggest a positive association between CBI and financial market development (FMD). This relationship is confirmed when estimating different indicators of de jure CBI and adopting the panel-corrected standard error estimate. However, the statistical significance of FMD is not supported when the ratio of domestic credit to the private sector to GDP is measured.

Research limitations/implications

It is significant to have a developed financial system to foster a better CBI. Moreover, it is important to measure the influence of financial market players on the operations of a CB.

Originality/value

The financial market in the Asia–Pacific has improved over the years. Hence, the results show the determinants of CBI in the Asia–Pacific, especially the role of FMD.
A bibliometric analysis on the application of deep learning in finance: status, development and future directions
Authors: Manogna R.L. , Anand Aayush
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Deep learning (DL) is a new and relatively unexplored field that finds immense applications in many industries, especially ones that must make detailed observations, inferences and predictions based on extensive and scattered datasets. The purpose of this paper is to answer the following questions: (1) To what extent has DL penetrated the research being done in finance? (2) What areas of financial research have applications of DL, and what quality of work has been done in the niches? (3) What areas still need to be explored and have scope for future research?

Design/methodology/approach

This paper employs bibliometric analysis, a potent yet simple methodology with numerous applications in literature reviews. This paper focuses on citation analysis, author impacts, relevant and vital journals, co-citation analysis, bibliometric coupling and co-occurrence analysis. The authors collected 693 articles published in 2000–2022 from journals indexed in the Scopus database. Multiple software (VOSviewer, RStudio (biblioshiny) and Excel) were employed to analyze the data.

Findings

The findings reveal significant and renowned authors' impact in the field. The analysis indicated that the application of DL in finance has been on an upward track since 2017. The authors find four broad research areas (neural networks and stock market simulations; portfolio optimization and risk management; time series analysis and forecasting; high-frequency trading) with different degrees of intertwining and emerging research topics with the application of DL in finance. This article contributes to the literature by providing a systematic overview of the DL developments, trajectories, objectives and potential future research topics in finance.

Research limitations/implications

The findings of this paper act as a guide for literature review for anyone interested in doing research in the intersection of finance and DL. The article also explores multiple areas of research that have yet to be studied to a great extent and have abundant scope.

Originality/value

Very few studies have explored the applications of machine learning (ML), namely, DL in finance, which is a much more specialized subset of ML. The authors look at the problem from the aspect of different techniques in DL that have been used in finance. This is the first qualitative (content analysis) and quantitative (bibliometric analysis) assessment of current research on DL in finance.
Inter-state war, institutions and multinationals: insights from the Russian-Ukraine war
Authors: Owens Martin David
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Wars, and violent conflicts generally, can generate significant institutional dynamics and new legitimacy pressures for multinational enterprises (MNEs). The purpose of this paper is to understand the nature or source of institutional pressures facing MNEs in war and to examine how MNEs respond and navigate these institutional pressures.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a conceptual paper.

Findings

Through the theoretical lens of institutional theory and drawing on insights from the devastating Russian–Ukrainian war in Europe, the study provides a framework that explains the nature of institutional pressures impacting MNEs in a major war conflict and how MNEs respond to these pressures. Central to the framework is the impact of formal and informal institutions on MNEs during war. As a result of regulatory and social pressures, MNEs have to make important strategic decisions either to protect their legitimacy or to defend their economic objectives against institutional demands.

Originality/value

As the paper situates the pressures of war for MNEs in a formal and informal institutional context, this offers a new approach to understanding the costs and pressures of war on MNEs.
Medicare's Hospital Readmission Reduction Program reduced fall‐related health care use: An unexpected benefit?
Authors: Hoffman Geoffrey J. , Alexander Neil B. , Ha Jinkyung , Nguyen Thuy , Min Lillian C.
Published: October 2023

Objective

To assess whether Medicare's Hospital Readmissions Reduction Program (HRRP) was associated with a reduction in severe fall‐related injuries (FRIs).

Data Sources and Study Setting

Secondary data from Medicare were used.

Study Design

Using an event study design, among older (≥65) Medicare fee‐for‐service beneficiaries, we assessed changes in 30‐ and 90‐day FRI readmissions before and after HRRP's announcement (April 2010) and implementation (October 2012) for conditions targeted by the HRRP (acute myocardial infarction [AMI], congestive heart failure [CHF], and pneumonia) versus “non‐targeted” (gastrointestinal) conditions. We tested for modification by hospitals with “high‐risk” before HRRP and accounted for potential upcoding. We also explored changes in 30‐day FRI readmissions involving emergency department (ED) or outpatient care, care processes (length of stay, discharge destination, and primary care visit), and patient selection (age and comorbidities).

Data Collection

Not applicable.

Principal Findings

We identified 1.5 million (522,596 pre‐HRRP, 514,844 announcement, and 474,029 implementation period) index discharges. After its announcement, HRRP was associated with 12%–20% reductions in 30‐ and 90‐day FRI readmissions for patients with CHF (−0.42 percentage points [ppt], p = 0.02; −1.53 ppt, p < 0.001) and AMI (−0.35, p = 0.047; −0.97, p = 0.001). Two years after implementation, HRRP was associated with reductions in 90‐day FRI readmission for AMI (−1.27 ppt, p = 0.01) and CHF (−0.98 ppt, p = 0.02) patients. Results were similar for hospitals at higher versus lower baseline risk of FRI readmission. After HRRP's announcement, decreases were observed in home health (AMI: −2.43 ppt, p < 0.001; CHF: −8.83 ppt, p < 0.001; pneumonia: −1.97 ppt, p < 0.001) and skilled nursing facility referrals (AMI: −5.95 ppt, p < 0.001; CHF: −3.19 ppt, p < 0.001; pneumonia: −10.27 ppt, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

HRRP was associated with reductions in FRIs, primarily for HF and pneumonia patients. These decreases may reflect improvements in transitional care including changes in post‐acute referral patterns that benefit patients at risk for falls.
Cytokine expression of IL‐8 before and after root canal treatment in patients with symptomatic apical periodontitis: A clinical trial
Authors: Abouelenien Sarah Samir , Shaker Olfat Gamil , Morsy Dina Ahmed
Published: October 2023

This study's objective was to compare the cytokine expression of IL‐8 in periapical tissues of single‐rooted teeth with symptomatic apical periodontitis (SAP) before and after root canal treatments. As well as, comparing IL‐8 levels in peri‐apical tissues between vital and necrotic teeth with SAP.

Methodology

Thirty‐six patients were allocated according to their pulp status into two experimental groups (n = 18) receiving the same treatment protocol; group 1: Vital pulps with SAP, and group 2: non‐vital pulps with SAP. Conventional endodontic treatment was done on two visits; isolation and disinfection of the operative field were undertaken, and two‐stage access cavity preparation was implemented. The first pre‐instrumentation peri‐apical sample (S1) was collected prior to cleaning and shaping procedures. A 2.5% NaOCl irrigation was used to thoroughly irrigate the canal after performing root canal preparation utilising the ProTaper Next (PTN) rotary system. After 1 week, the second post‐instrumentation peri‐apical sample (S2) was collected. Using an ELISA kit, the quantity of IL‐8 was evaluated following the collection of all samples.

Results

In all pre‐instrumentation samples, IL‐8 was detected (100%). The level of IL‐8 expression was significantly decreased from the S1 to S2 of all samples (p < 0.001). The intra‐group comparison showed a statistically significant reduction in the level of IL‐8 expression between S1 and S2 in both vital and non‐vital groups where p < 0.001* in both groups. The inter‐group comparison of levels of IL‐8 expression (vital and non‐vital) revealed a significant difference between both groups regarding the pretreatment sample with the higher levels of IL‐8 shown in the non‐vital group (p < 0.001). While in the post‐treatment sample, both groups showed a significant reduction in the level of IL‐8 expression but the difference between them was not statistically significant (p = 0.226).

Conclusion

Root canal instrumentation seems to be efficient in decreasing the levels of anti‐inflammatory cytokines, namely IL‐8. Further research should clarify how intra‐canal medicaments affect inflammatory mediator levels.
High resolution in turbid waters: Ampullae of Lorenzini in the daggernose shark Carcharhinus oxyrhynchus (Valenciennes, 1839) (Elasmobranchii: Carcharhinidae)
Authors: Haueisen Mariana , Reis Roberto E.
Published: October 2023

The present work aimed to analyse the distribution of the electrosensory pores of the daggernose shark Carcharhinus oxyrhynchus, identifying the organ's importance in the natural history of the species. By examining photographs and digital microscope videos, we found that C. oxyrhynchus possesses the highest abundance of pores among Carcharhiniformes. This suggests a well‐developed electroreceptor system, which may have maximized its evolutionary success in high‐turbidity environments. Furthermore, as a morphologically derived species, C. oxyrhynchus comprises a more complex and specialized electrosensory system. Notably, the species exhibits ontogenetic variation in pore abundance, highlighting the importance of a high‐resolution system for adults. The higher density of pores in the ventral region indicates a preference for benthic prey, despite also feeding on pelagic items. Moreover, the species has a high‐resolution electrosensory system and a high density of pores in the snout, which emphasizes the importance of the elongated snout that expands the electroreception search area coverage. Evolutionary convergence was observed in the development of the electrosensory system, as C. oxyrhynchus shares the characteristics of pore distribution and abundance with phylogenetically unrelated species.
Applying a model of integrated STEM teacher identity to understand change in elementary teachers' STEM self‐efficacy and career awareness
Authors: Holincheck Nancy M. , Galanti Terrie M.
Published: October 2023

This sequential mixed methods study applies a recently published model of integrated science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) teacher identity to analyze teacher artifacts from a graduate STEM education course for in‐service teachers (n = 23). This model captures the complexity of integrating STEM in elementary classrooms as an intertwining of professional teacher identity and STEM learning identity. Increases in participating teachers' self‐efficacy and STEM career awareness motivated the research team to look for explanatory qualitative evidence in teacher reflections. Analysis using the nine dimensions of the model elicited robust evidence of professional teacher identity (teaching interest, self‐efficacy, motivation, self‐image, and task perception) and limited evidence of STEM learner identity (competence, performance, recognition, and content interest) in teachers' identity statements. Changes in self‐efficacy and STEM career awareness were associated with only three of nine identity dimensions. Application of this model of integrated STEM teacher identity can provide a deeper understanding of teacher readiness to engage elementary students in authentic problem solving. Findings indicate that purposeful prompting of reflection in STEM teacher education informed by the model may support the cultivation of integrated STEM teacher identities.
The operational impact of introducing cold stored platelets
Authors: Blake John T. , Krok Elizabeth , Pavenski Katerina , Pambrun Chantale , Petraszko Tanya
Published: October 2023

Background

Cold stored platelets (CSP) undergo physical changes that make them better at initiating a clot. While cold stored platelets are superior for reducing bleeding in actively bleeding patients, room temperature platelets (RTP) are better for increasing platelet count in patients requiring a prophylactic transfusion. However, whether the overhead required to maintain a dual platelet inventory of both RTP and CSP could be compensated by reduced platelet wastage resulting from the longer shelf life of CSP has not been determined.

Study Design and Methods

A simulation model of a regional blood supply was built, with focus on the operations of a case hospital. Two scenarios were considered: “No‐CSP,” in which the hospital issues only RTP, and “CSP,” in which the hospital issues both RTP and CSP Within the CSP scenario, conditions were tested under which the hospital receives only RTP and converts some to cold stored platelets and a second strategy where the hospital receives CSP from the regional supplier in addition to converting RTP.

Results

A centralized supply of CSP is necessary since on‐site conversion is limited by platelet age. Product shortages decrease with increased CSP inventory, but CSP wastage increases. It was also determined that, because relatively few RTP units can be converted on‐site, RTP wastage is not significantly decreased with the introduction of CSP.

Conclusion

Given the clinical benefits for treatment of trauma, CSP is a desirable addition to a blood formulary. However, it is unlikely that significant reductions in RTP wastage will occur because of the introduction of CSP.
Computation of spherical sector harmonics norm with application to blind source separation
Authors: Kumari Deepika , Kumar Lalan
Published: October 2023

Spherical microphone arrays (SMAs) are widely being used for source localization and separation. However, it is uneconomical to build a full SMA when sources are present in restricted regions of environment. Hence, a spherical sector microphone array is utilized for blind source separation for the first time. In particular, the norm of the spherical sector harmonics basis function is computed for mixing matrix estimation. The estimated steering vectors are clustered using mean-shift algorithm. The number of sources is estimated automatically from the number of clusters. The developed mathematical framework is verified using various simulations and experiments on real data.
PIM1 controls GBP1 activity to limit self-damage and to guard against pathogen infection
Authors: Fisch Daniel , Pfleiderer Moritz M. , Anastasakou Eleni , Mackie Gillian M. , Wendt Fabian , Liu Xiangyang , Clough Barbara , Lara-Reyna Samuel , Encheva Vesela , Snijders Ambrosius P. , Bando Hironori , Yamamoto Masahiro , Beggs Andrew D. , Mercer Jason , Shenoy Avinash R. , Wollscheid Bernd , Maslowski Kendle M. , Galej Wojtek P. , Frickel Eva-Maria
Published: October 2023

Disruption of cellular activities by pathogen virulence factors can trigger innate immune responses. Interferon-γ (IFN-γ)–inducible antimicrobial factors, such as the guanylate binding proteins (GBPs), promote cell-intrinsic defense by attacking intracellular pathogens and by inducing programmed cell death. Working in human macrophages, we discovered that GBP1 expression in the absence of IFN-γ killed the cells and induced Golgi fragmentation. IFN-γ exposure improved macrophage survival through the activity of the kinase PIM1. PIM1 phosphorylated GBP1, leading to its sequestration by 14-3-3σ, which thereby prevented GBP1 membrane association. During
Toxoplasma gondii
infection, the virulence protein TgIST interfered with IFN-γ signaling and depleted PIM1, thereby increasing GBP1 activity. Although infected cells can restrain pathogens in a GBP1-dependent manner, this mechanism can protect uninfected bystander cells. Thus, PIM1 can provide a bait for pathogen virulence factors, guarding the integrity of IFN-γ signaling.