bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the kynurenine pathway in mild traumatic brain injury: A longitudinal study
Authors: Visser Koen , Ciubotariu Diana , de Koning Myrthe E. , Jacobs Bram , van Faassen Martijn , van der Ley Claude , Mayer Andrew R. , Meier Timothy B. , Bourgonje Arno R. , Kema Ido P. , van Goor Harry , van der Naalt Joukje , van der Horn Harm J.
Published: May 2024

A potential source of novel biomarkers for mTBI is the kynurenine pathway (KP), a metabolic pathway of tryptophan (Trp), that is up‐regulated by neuroinflammation and stress. Considering that metabolites of the KP (kynurenines) are implicated in various neuropsychiatric diseases, exploration of this pathway could potentially bridge the gap between physiological and psychological factors in the recovery process after mTBI. This study, therefore, set out to characterize the KP after mTBI and to examine associations with long‐term outcome. Patients were prospectively recruited at the emergency department (ED), and blood samples were obtained in the acute phase (<24 h; N = 256) and at 1‐month follow‐up (N = 146). A comparison group of healthy controls (HC; N = 32) was studied at both timepoints. Trp, kynurenines, and interleukin (IL)‐6 and IL‐10 were quantified in plasma. Clinical outcome was measured at six months post‐injury. Trp, xanthurenic acid (XA), and picolinic acid (PA) were significantly reduced in patients with mTBI relative to HC, corrected for age and sex. For Trp (d = −0.57 vs. d = −0.29) and XA (d = −0.98 vs. d = −0.32), larger effects sizes were observed during the acute phase compared to one‐month follow‐up, while for PA (d = −0.49 vs. d = −0.52) effect sizes remained consistent. Findings for other kynurenines (e.g., kynurenine, kynurenic acid, and quinolinic acid) were non‐significant after correction for multiple testing. Within the mTBI group, lower acute Trp levels were significantly related to incomplete functional recovery and higher depression scores at 6 months post‐injury. No significant relationships were found for Trp, XA, and PA with IL‐6 or IL‐10 concentrations. In conclusion, our findings indicate that perturbations of the plasma KP in the hyperacute phase of mTBI and 1 month later are limited to the precursor Trp, and glutamate system modulating kynurenines XA and PA. Correlations between acute reductions of Trp and unfavorable outcomes may suggest a potential substrate for pharmacological intervention.

image
Genotype–phenotype correlations of AR‐CMT2S in a cohort of axonal Charcot–Marie–Tooth patients from Central South China
Authors: Liu Lei , Zeng Sen , Li Xiaobo , Xie Yongzhi , Xu Ke , Yang Honglan , Huang Shunxiang , Zhao Huadong , Zhang Ruxu
Published: May 2024

Background and Aims

This study aimed to report nine Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease (CMT) families with six novel IGHMBP2 mutations in our CMT2 cohort and to summarize the genetic and clinical features of all AR‐CMT2S patients reported worldwide.

Methods

General information, clinical and neurophysiological data of 275 axonal CMT families were collected. Genetic screening was performed by inherited peripheral neuropathy related genes panel or whole exome sequencing. The published papers reporting AR‐CMT2S from 2014 to 2023 were searched in Pubmed and Wanfang databases.

Results

In our CMT2 cohort, we detected 17 AR‐CMT2S families carrying IGHMBP2 mutations and eight were published previously. Among these, c.743 T > A (p.Val248Glu), c.884A > G (p.Asp295Gly), c.1256C > A (p.Ser419*), c.2598_2599delGA (p.Lys868Sfs*16), c.1694_1696delATG (p.Asp565del) and c.2509A > T (p.Arg837*) were firstly reported. These patients prominently presented with early‐onset typical axonal neuropathy and without respiratory dysfunction. So far, 56 AR‐CMT2S patients and 57 different mutations coming from 43 families have been reported in the world. Twenty‐nine of 32 missense mutations were clustered in helicase domain and ATPase region. The age at onset ranged from 0.11to 20 years (Mean ± SD: 3.43 ± 3.88 years) and the majority was infantile‐onset (<2 years). The initial symptoms included weakness of limbs (19, 29.7%), delayed milestones (12, 18.8%), gait disturbance (11, 17.2%), feet deformity (8, 12.5%), feet drop (8, 12.5%), etc.

Interpretation

AR‐CMT2S accounted for 6.2% in our CMT2 cohort. We firstly reported six novel IGHMBP2 mutations which expanded the genotypic spectrum of AR‐CMT2S. Furthermore, 17 AR‐CMT2S families could provide more resources for natural history study, drug research and development.
The Paradox of Inclusion in Elite Workforce Differentiation Practices: Harnessing the Genius Effect
Authors: van Zelderen Anand P. A. , Dries Nicky , Marescaux Elise
Published: May 2024

We examine the assumption that making workforce differentiation practices more inclusive will cause employees to react more positively. We identify a fundamental ‘paradox of inclusion’, where practices designed to be more inclusive may in fact decrease employees' perceived inclusion. Drawing on social comparison theory and the ‘genius effect’ – using talent management practices as an empirical case – we found that both employees identified as ‘talents’ and ‘non‐talents’ reacted more favourably to exclusive, secretive practices than to inclusive, transparent practices. Across four studies, we ran experiments testing managers' assumptions about employee reactions to talent practices (Study 1; N = 179); the reactions of ‘non‐talents’ (Study 2; N = 576); the reactions of ‘talents’ (Study 3; N = 306); and conducted a field study (Study 4; N = 402). Managers' preferences for more inclusive practices were guided by their assumption that non‐talents would react more positively to them. Non‐talents, in fact, reacted morenegativelyto more inclusive practices in terms of envy, organization‐based self‐esteem, turnover intentions, and perceived inclusion. Keeping talent status a secret from employees buffered negative reactions. Based on these findings, we identify paradoxes inherent to workforce differentiation and extend theorizing on the tension between exclusive and inclusive practices within organizations.
A personal exploration of oral health in Parkinson's disease through the eyes of a multifaceted authority
Authors: Verhoeff Merel C. , Raphael Karen G. , Lobbezoo Frank
Published: May 2024

Background and Objective

Parkinson's disease (PD) poses a range of challenges, including oral health issues, that significantly impact the patient's quality of life. Despite growing awareness of PD, oral health receives limited attention. To shed light on this matter, this personal scoping review explores the perspectives of Professor K.G. Raphael, who is both a professional and a PD patient, on various aspects of oral health in PD.

Methods

Through semi‐structured interviews, Prof. Raphael shares her insights on the complexities of oral health as a PD patient to compose an agenda for oral health care, research, and education, for PD patients.

Results

She emphasises the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and education. Additionally, Prof. Raphael identifies crucial research areas, such as exploring the role of the oral microbiome and assessing the impact of exercise on oral health in PD.

Conclusion

This study resulted in agendas to improve oral health care, research and education, advocating for a holistic approach to enhance PD patients' well‐being. Despite its limitations, this study highlights the imperative of integrating oral health into the broader management of PD, emphasising interdisciplinary collaboration and patient empowerment.
Prevalence, clinical and virological characteristics and short‐term prognosis of hepatitis delta infection among patients with HIV/HBV in Nouakchott, Mauritania
Authors: Le Guillou‐Guillemette Hélène , Pivert Adeline , ElBara Ahmed , Vall Mazouz , Sang Cindy Ng Wing , Veillon Pascal , Ducancelle Alexandra , Bollahi Mohamed Abdallahi , Mohamed Mohamed Sidi , Lunel‐Fabiani Françoise
Published: May 2024

Patients living with HIV infection (PLWH) are at risk of acquiring HBV and HDV. The present study aimed to determine the prevalence and characteristics of HIV–HDV–HBV tri‐infection in comparison with HIV–HBV coinfection and to estimate severities and outcomes of associated liver diseases in Mauritanian PLWH. Two‐hundred‐ninety‐two consecutive HBsAg‐positive PLWH were included (mean age: 37 years). Clinical data were recorded. Anti‐HDV antibodies, HBV and HDV viral loads (VLs) and genotype were determined. APRI, FIB‐4 and FibroScan were performed to evaluate the severity of liver disease. The anti‐HDV antibodies prevalence was 37% and HDV RNA was positive in 40.7% of patients. Genetic diversities were found with HDV genotype 1 (93%) and HBV genotypes D (42.5%) and E (38%). The HBV VL was detectable in 108 patients at inclusion, and mutations associated with HBV resistance were found in 20. For almost all variables studied, including FIB‐4 and APRI scores, no significant differences were found between anti‐HDV‐Ab positive or negative patients. FibroScan examination, which was performed in 110 patients at end‐of‐follow‐up showed higher, but NS values, in HDV positive patients. After a mean follow‐up of 24.55 ± 8.01 months (n = 217 patients), a highly significant worsening of APRI and FIB‐4 scores was found. Moreover, patients with HDV showed more severe liver disease progression despite an efficient therapy. In a substantial Mauritanian cohort of relatively young PLWH, we found high HDV prevalence and worsening liver disease. In high‐risk countries, screening for HDV and providing appropriate follow‐up and treatments are warranted in PLWH.
Potato E3 ubiquitin ligase StRFP1 positively regulates late blight resistance by degrading sugar transporters StSWEET10c and StSWEET11
Authors: Wu Xintong , Lin Tianyu , Zhou Xiaoshuang , Zhang Wenjun , Liu Shengxuan , Qiu Huishan , Birch Paul R. J. , Tian Zhendong
Published: May 2024

Potato (Solanum tuberosum) is the fourth largest food crop in the world. Late blight, caused by oomycete Phytophthora infestans, is the most devastating disease threatening potato production. Previous research has shown that StRFP1, a potato Arabidopsis Tóxicos en Levadura (ATL) family protein, positively regulates late blight resistance via its E3 ligase activity. However, the underlying mechanism is unknown.

Here, we reveal that StRFP1 is associated with the plasma membrane (PM) and undergoes constitutive endocytic trafficking. Its PM localization is essential for inhibiting P. infestans colonization. Through in vivo and in vitro assays, we investigated that StRFP1 interacts with two sugar transporters StSWEET10c and StSWEET11 at the PM.

Overexpression (OE) of StSWEET10c or StSWEET11 enhances P. infestans colonization. Both StSWEET10c and StSWEET11 exhibit sucrose transport ability in yeast, and OE of StSWEET10c leads to an increased sucrose content in the apoplastic fluid of potato leaves. StRFP1 ubiquitinates StSWEET10c and StSWEET11 to promote their degradation.

We illustrate a novel mechanism by which a potato ATL protein enhances disease resistance by degrading susceptibility (S) factors, such as Sugars Will Eventually be Exported Transporters (SWEETs). This offers a potential strategy for improving disease resistance by utilizing host positive immune regulators to neutralize S factors.
Unravelling meiosis in wheat
Authors: Phillips Dylan W. , Lloyd Andrew
Published: May 2024

This article is a Commentary on Osman et al. (2024), 244: 528–541.
Pharmacometabolomics applied to low‐dose interleukin‐2 treatment in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Alarcan Hugo , Bruno Clément , Emond Patrick , Raoul Cédric , Vourc'h Patrick , Corcia Philippe , Camu William , Veyrune Jean‐Luc , Garlanda Cecilia , Locati Massimo , Juntas‐Morales Raúl , Saker Safaa , Suehs Carey , Masseguin Christophe , Kirby Janine , Shaw Pamela , Malaspina Andrea , De Vos John , Al‐Chalabi Ammar , Leigh P. Nigel , Tree Timothy , Bensimon Gilbert , Blasco Hélène
Published: May 2024

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a devastating motor neuron disease. The immunosuppressive functions of regulatory T lymphocytes (Tregs) are impaired in ALS, and correlate to disease progression. The phase 2a IMODALS trial reported an increase in Treg number in ALS patients following the administration of low‐dose (ld) interleukin‐2 (IL‐2). We propose a pharmacometabolomics approach to decipher metabolic modifications occurring in patients treated with ld‐IL‐2 and its relationship with Treg response. Blood metabolomic profiles were determined on days D1, D64, and D85 from patients receiving 2 MIU of IL‐2 (n = 12) and patients receiving a placebo (n = 12). We discriminated the three time points for the treatment group (average error rate of 42%). Among the important metabolites, kynurenine increased between D1 and D64, followed by a reduction at D85. The percentage increase of Treg number from D1 to D64, as predicted by the metabolome at D1, was highly correlated with the observed value. This study provided a proof of concept for metabolic characterization of the effect of ld‐IL‐2 in ALS. These data could present advances toward a personalized medicine approach and present pharmacometabolomics as a key tool to complement genomic and transcriptional data for drug characterization, leading to systems pharmacology.
A systematic review on the applicability of cell‐free DNA level as an obesity biomarker
Authors: Tung Keith T. S. , Tsang Hing Wai , Ngo Ulrike , Wong Rosa S. , Chow Clare H. Y. , Tso Winnie H. Y. , Yam Jason C. S. , Chan Godfrey C. F. , Ip Patrick
Published: May 2024

Obesity has become a global health concern in recent decades. Utilizing biomarkers presents a promising approach to comprehensively monitor the progress of obesity and its associated health conditions. This review aims to synthesize the available evidence on the correlation between cfDNA level and obesity and to provide insights into the applicability of using cfDNA level as a tool for monitoring progression of obesity. Searches were performed in PubMed and Embase on April 1, 2022. Data and other relevant information were extracted and compiled into a structured table for further analysis. Among 1170 articles screened, 11 articles were included in this review and assessed qualitatively. The results demonstrated that existing evidence mainly focused on three populations, including healthy individuals, cancer patients and pregnant women. Majority of the studies on healthy individuals identified a significant association between cfDNA level and body weight status but not among cancer patients. Varying results were observed among pregnant women at different gestational trimesters. Our review summarized some preliminary evidence on the association between cfDNA level and obesity. More cohort studies in larger scale with comprehensive assessment have to be conducted to examine the applicability of cfDNA as a biomarker for severity and disease progression of obesity.
Effects of a dementia educational programme using virtual reality on nurses in an acute care hospital: A pre‐post comparative study
Authors: Wu Jinyan , Igarashi Ayumi , Suzuki Haruno , Matsumoto Hiroshige , Kugai Haruna , Takaoka Manami , Yamamoto‐Mitani Noriko
Published: May 2024

Background

Poor awareness of dementia care by healthcare professionals affects the quality of care for people living with dementia in acute care settings.

Objectives

This study examined the effectiveness of a virtual reality‐based educational programme for dementia for nurses working in acute care hospitals in Japan.

Methods

A dementia education programme for nurses was designed. The programme comprised short movies, virtual reality videos based on the short movies, a lecture, discussions and role‐playing based on the experimental learning model. Virtual reality video content was created to promote empathy for people living with dementia through a first‐person experience of dementia. The educational programme involved nurses working in an acute care hospital in the Tokyo Metropolitan area. Before and after the programme, we employed structured questionnaires using validated instruments to assess participants' attitudes towards people living with dementia, their intentions of helping behaviour and their confidence in providing dementia care.

Results

Seventy‐six nurses participated in and completed the pre‐ and post‐tests. The mean age was 34.9 ± 9.2 years, and 90.8% of the participants were female. A paired t‐test showed significant before‐after improvement in the participants’ attitudes towards people living with dementia (41.9 ± 5.1 vs. 44.5 ± 4.8), intentions of helping behaviour towards people living with dementia (10.8 ± 2.5 vs. 12.8 ± 2.1) and confidence in providing dementia care (25.9 ± 6.7 vs. 29.2 ± 6.0).

Conclusion

The programme effectively improved nurses’ attitudes towards people living with dementia and confidence in providing dementia care in acute care settings. Future research is important to explore the long‐term effects of this programme and its effects on actual dementia care.

Implications for practice

The dementia education programme may promote person‐centred care in acute hospitals. Future studies should consider the provision of more flexible programs so that nurses can more easily participate in them.
A photoaging smartphone application to promote sun safety behaviors among youth in late childhood and adolescence
Authors: Abraham Jaclyn , Natarelli Nicole , Boby Aleena , Wei Grace , Hennessy Kerry , Moore Sarah , Bindernagel Constance , Dabrow Sharon , Soylu Lana , Brinker Titus J. , Seminario‐Vidal Lucia , Albers Sharon
Published: May 2024

Background

Ultraviolet (UV)‐exposure behaviors can directly impact an individual's skin cancer risk, with many habits formed during childhood and adolescence. We explored the utility of a photoaging smartphone application to motivate youth to improve sun safety practices.

Methods

Participants completed a preintervention survey to gather baseline sun safety perceptions and behaviors. Participants then used a photoaging mobile application to view the projected effects of chronic UV exposure on participants' self‐face image over time, followed by a postintervention survey to assess motivation to engage in future sun safety practices.

Results

The study sample included 87 participants (median [interquartile (IQR)] age, 14 [11–16] years). Most participants were White (50.6%) and reported skin type that burns a little and tans easily (42.5%). Preintervention sun exposure behaviors among participants revealed that 33 (37.9%) mostly or always used sunscreen on a sunny day, 48 (55.2%) experienced at least one sunburn over the past year, 26 (30.6%) engaged in outdoor sunbathing at least once during the past year, and zero (0%) used indoor tanning beds. Non‐skin of color (18 [41.9%], p = .02) and older (24 [41.4%], p = .007) participants more often agreed they felt better with a tan. Most participants agreed the intervention increased their motivation to practice sun‐protective behaviors (wear sunscreen, 74 [85.1%]; wear hats, 64 [74.4%]; avoid indoor tanning, 73 [83.9%]; avoid outdoor tanning, 68 [79%]).

Conclusion

The findings of this cross‐sectional study suggest that a photoaging smartphone application may serve as a useful tool to promote sun safety behaviors from a young age.
Transcriptional networks revealed late embryogenesis abundant genes regulating drought mitigation in aromatic Keteki Joha rice
Authors: Regon Preetom , Saha Bedabrata , Jyoti Sabnoor Yeasrin , Gupta Divya , Kundu Bikash , Tanti Bhaben , Panda Sanjib Kumar
Published: May 2024

Climate change has become increasingly intertwined with the occurrence and severity of droughts. As global temperatures rise due to greenhouse gas emissions, weather patterns are altered, leading to shifts in precipitation levels and distribution. These exacerbate the risk of drought in many regions, with potentially devastating consequences. A comprehensive transcriptome analysis was performed on Keteki Joha, an aromatic rice from North East India, with the aim of elucidating molecular responses to drought. Numerous genes linked to drought were activated, with both ABA‐dependent and ABA‐independent pathways playing crucial roles. Upregulated genes were enriched with gene ontology terms with response to abscisic acid and abscisic acid‐activated signalling pathway, suggesting the existence of an ABA‐dependent pathway for drought mitigation. The upregulated genes were also enriched with responses to stress, water, heat, jasmonic acid, and hydrogen peroxide, indicating the presence of an ABA‐independent pathway alongside the ABA‐dependent mechanism. Weighted Correlation Network Analysis (WGCNA) identified 267 genes that specifically govern drought mitigation in Keteki Joha. The late embryogenesis abundant (LEA) gene family emerges as the most overrepresented in both RNA sequencing data and WGCNA analysis, suggesting their dominant role in mitigating drought. Notably, 31 LEA genes were induced in seedlings and 32 in mature stages under drought stress. The LEA3‐1, LEA14/WSI18, RAB16A, RAB16B, DHN1, DHN6, LEA1, LEA3, LEA17, and LEA33 exhibited and established co‐expression with numerous other drought stress‐related genes, indicating their inseparable role in alleviating drought. Consequently, LEA genes have been proposed to be primary and crucial responders to drought in Keteki Joha.
An ATP‐binding cassette transporter, OsABCB24, is involved in female gametophyte development and early seed growth in rice
Authors: Nguyen Van Ngoc Tuyet , Usman Babar , Kim Eui‐Jung , Shim Su‐Hyeon , Jeon Jong‐Seong , Jung Ki‐Hong
Published: May 2024

Female gametogenesis has been rarely studied due to gametophyte lethality and the unavailability of related genetic resources. In this study, we identified a rice ATP‐binding cassette transporter, OsABCB24, whose null function displayed a significantly reduced seed setting rate by as much as 94%–100% compared with that of the wild type (WT). The reciprocal cross of WT and mutant plants demonstrated that the female reproductive organs in mutants were functionally impaired. Confocal microscopy observations revealed that, although megasporogenesis remained unaffected in CRISPR/Cas9 osabcb24 mutants, the formation of female gametophytes was interrupted. Additionally, the structure of the syncytial nucleus was impaired during the initial stages of endosperm formation. Histochemical analysis showed that OsABCB24 was preferentially expressed at the conjunction of receptacle and ovary, spanning from the functional megaspore stage to the two‐nucleate embryo sac stage. Further, OsABCB24 was identified as an endoplasmic reticulum membrane‐localized protein. Notably, the overexpression of OsABCB24 triggered a 1.5‐ to 2‐fold increase in grain production compared to the WT. Our findings showed that OsABCB24 plays a key role in both female gametophyte development and the early development of seeds.
Challenges faced by older people with dementia during the COVID‐19 pandemic as perceived by professionals: a qualitative study with interviews
Authors: Kojima Kaori , Hirakawa Yoshihisa , Yamanaka Takashi , Hirahara Satoshi , Okochi Jiro , Kuzuya Masafumi , Miura Hisayuki
Published: May 2024

Background

Previous studies have highlighted a decline in the mental health of older adults over the course of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic. Few studies have determined the possible causes of behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia during COVID‐19 in a comprehensive manner. We aimed to identify the challenges faced by older adults with dementia during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Methods

This study adopted a qualitative approach to understanding the perceptions of healthcare professionals, such as regarding the negative effects of COVID‐19 on the mental health of people with dementia. Between January and March 2022, the authors conducted individual in‐depth interviews on how COVID‐19 affected the stress levels, care, and self‐determination of people with dementia. Qualitative data from the individual interviews were data cleansed to ensure the clarity and readability of the transcripts. The qualitative data were then analyzed by inductive manual coding using a qualitative content analysis approach. The grouping process involved reading and comparing individual labels to cluster similar labels into categories and inductively formulate themes.

Results

Qualitative analysis extracted 61 different semantic units that were duplicated. Seven categories were inductively extracted using a grouping process. These were further integrated to extract the following four themes: fear of personal protective equipment (PPE), loneliness, dissatisfaction with behavioural restrictions and limitations of video calls, and family interference with service use.

Discussion

People with dementia often faced mental distress during the pandemic owing to preventive measures against COVID‐19, and a lack of awareness and understanding of such preventive measures worsened their distress. They experienced a severe sense of social isolation and loneliness. Findings also indicated that families tended to ignore the needs of people with dementia and their decisions and opinions regarding healthcare service use.
Women's engagement with the far right: A quest for a more holistic understanding
Authors: Williams Katherine
Published: May 2024

The idea that women do not support the far right endures despite the contemporary resurgence and global electoral successes of the far right in its many guises. The aim of this article is to critically interrogate four dominant assumptions surrounding women's alleged lack of support for the far right and unpack whether they ‘tell’ researchers anything new about this support or merely consolidate existing blind spots in the scholarly literature on the topic. The article makes the case that for researchers to understand women's far‐right support, they must take a more holistic approach to the topic of gender and political behaviour, and pay closer attention not only to the socio‐cultural, historical, and political factors which underpin far‐right support in this context, but the different ways in which some women ‘do’ politics in order to make their voices heard.
Role of AKR1B10 in inflammatory diseases
Authors: Guo Min , Wang Tao , Ge Wenjun , Ren Chenran , Ko Ben Chi‐Bun , Zeng Xi , Cao Deliang
Published: May 2024

Inflammation is an important pathophysiological process in many diseases; it has beneficial and harmful effects. When exposed to various stimuli, the body triggers an inflammatory response to eliminate invaded pathogens and damaged tissues to maintain homeostasis. However, uncontrollable persistent or excessive inflammatory responses may damage tissues and induce various diseases, such as metabolic diseases (e.g. diabetes), autoimmune diseases, nervous system‐related diseases, digestive system‐related diseases, and even tumours. Aldo‐keto reductase 1B10 (AKR1B10) is an important player in the development and progression of multiple diseases, such as tumours and inflammatory diseases. AKR1B10 is upregulated in solid tumours, such as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), non‐small cell lung carcinoma, and breast cancer, and is a reliable serum marker. However, information on the role of AKR1B10 in inflammation is limited. In this study, we summarized the role of AKR1B10 in inflammatory diseases, including its expression, functional contribution to inflammatory responses, and regulation of signalling pathways related to inflammation. We also discussed the role of AKR1B10 in glucose and lipid metabolism and oxidative stress. This study provides novel information and increases the understanding of clinical inflammatory diseases.
Compliance with the Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) on Construction Sites in Johor, Malaysia
Authors: Tanko Bruno Lot , Low Chien Ting , Idiake John Ebhohimen
Published: May 2024

The construction environment is one of the most dangerous workplaces where several fatal accidents have been recorded. Personal protective equipment (PPE) has therefore been used as a vital protection in ensuring the health and safety of workers on construction sites. A few findings reveal that PPE is usually not worn by construction workers in Malaysia. The purpose of this research was to investigate the awareness and compliance with PPE usage on construction sites in Johor, Malaysia. A mixed-method research approach was adopted for the study. A total of 95 questionnaires were distributed to workers on nine (9) construction sites in Johor with a response rate of 72%. The data analysis method utilised quantitative analysis using mean values, and qualitative analysis using coding of real-time observations. Both quantitative and qualitative methods reveal head, foot, body, and hand PPE as the most commonly used PPE among construction workers on sites in Johor. The findings also reveal a considerable level of awareness but a low level of compliance with the use of PPE by construction workers in Johor as only three (3) PPE out of eight (8) had a compliance level above the average mean of 2.5. Hence, approaches such as provision of safety training and penalties to workers who fail to comply with PPE usage should be implemented to enhance compliance with the use of PPE on construction sites.
Risk Shift of Real Estate Stocks during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: He Jianan , Hennig Kerstin , Lang Elmar , Neukranz Nils
Published: May 2024

The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic induces an increase of risk in global equity markets where real estate stocks are often perceived as a ‘safe haven’. Employing the Fama and French’s (2015) five-factor model, we calculate the betas for risk factors and investigate the influence of market crises on excess returns of real estate stocks. The time series used in this study allows for splitting the data into two crisis periods namely the global financial crisis during 2007-2008 and the COVID-19 crisis in 2020. Our empirical evidence underlines that the undifferentiated view of real estate stocks as an overall ‘safe haven’ is not supported: 1) We find the risk factors of Fama and French can be applied to real estate stocks only to some extent, where the investment and profitability factors show opposite signs compared to general stocks; 2) Regional differences exist and Asian real estate markets show stronger diversification benefits during the crises; 3) Differences in business scopes lead to distinct reactions to the crises, where Asian firms focusing on real estate development and diversified activities are proven stronger during the COVID-19 pandemic and thus may offer better diversification value for investors; and 4) European real estate stocks are the worst-performing in terms of annualized return, specifically for firms offering real estate development and diversified activities. During both crisis periods, operating and services firms suffer a significant negative impact in Europe and are less likely to have diversification value.
A Conceptual Framework for Managing Construction Claims in the Face of the COVID-19 Pandemic in Nigeria
Authors: Asuquo Christian Fidelis , Udo Itoro Ernest , Otali Monday
Published: May 2024

Claims are inevitable and have become an indispensable part of modern construction. The complexities, risks and uncertainties surrounding construction business environment often lead to unforeseen circumstances which disrupt the progress of works and give rise to contractual claims. One of such unexpected events presently causing disruption for construction contractors is the coronavirus or COVID-19 pandemic, which is exerting a significant but unprecedented impact on the delivery of construction projects, resulting in delays and additional costs for contractors, suspension of works and a disruption of the construction supply chain. Due to its novelty, the COVID-19 pandemic has presented a distinctive challenge for construction claims management. Therefore, if construction project parties are to prevent claims from escalating into dispute, it is imperative that the claims arising from construction contracts, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, are effectively managed. This study therefore examined the deficiencies of existing construction claims management process with a view to providing a conceptual framework for more effective management of claims that may arise as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic in Nigeria. Questionnaire responses were received from 162 construction small, medium and large contractors in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. The result indicates that failure to interpret contract terms is the most significant deficiency in contractual claims management process. Other important deficiencies in the claim management process include contractors’ inability to recognise claims events, failure to establish legal and factual grounds and poor records or documentation to support claims. With this, a conceptual framework for effective management of claims in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic was developed for use by contractors.
Effects of COVID-19 on Urban Housing Delivery and Affordability in Nigeria
Authors: Musa Godswill Unekwuojo , Adeogun Adekunle Sunday , Durosinmi Wasiu Ayobami
Published: May 2024

The world economy has been experiencing serious disruption due to the advent of COVID-19 pandemic impacting at both local and global scales. Inquiries, studies and researches are currently ongoing to analyse the impacts COVID-19 has on various sectors of the economy so as to enable stakeholders in policy making understand and come up with adequate plans to develop resilience to the pandemic and ensure sustainability of the several affected sectors in the economy. Housing is one of the fundamental needs of man and has no doubt been affected by the advent of COVID-19 pandemic, especially in the aspect of housing need, space requirement, housing security, housing affordability and security of tenure, housing/property investment and construction. This study reviews various existing studies on the current effects and potential impact of COVID-19 pandemic on different facets of urban housing, and its effects on urban housing delivery and affordability, with a view to identifying fissures or gaps as well as filling the identified gaps and create platform for further studies and contribution to knowledge and academic research. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses was adopted with a total of 140 documents retrieved and 79 eliminated using adopted criteria leaving out 61, out of which 30 not addressing subject matter in the study area were excluded from findings; thus, 33 documents including PhD dissertations, MSc. thesis, peer reviewed journal articles, books, proceedings, technical reports and other published articles directly relevant to this paper work were succinctly reviewed. Results show COVID-19 has impacted housing need, space requirement, housing security, housing affordability, real estate investment and housing development. The study also shows that residential, hospitality, retail, offices, industrial and healthcare sectors have different experiences of COVID-19 impact as some are positive like in the case of industrial and healthcare while others are negative.
Culinary Authenticity and Diaspora: A Preliminary Enquiry
Authors: Preetha Anupama Thampi , Lazarus Anderleen Diana
Published: May 2024

Food has traversed across boundaries with the advent of globalization. Food from various countries is now accessible to people across the globe, irrespective of the vast difference in culture or taste. Exposure to new kinds of food has become commonplace since migration, food trade and marketing expanded. Diasporic groups who migrate for different reasons carry their culture along, that they either spread the same in the immigrant country or seek nostalgic relief through food, lifestyle, relationships etc. Nonetheless, the mother culture and corresponding food habits do travel with people, more so if their occupation is related to food. While that happens, there’s always the burning question of authenticity of food. Some believe that a dish cooked by a native of a particular cuisine is authentic, some others consider use of traditional ingredients makes a dish authentic. In the context of globalisation, culinary ways, recipes and ingredients are borrowed and integrated across cultures. Due to these transactions, presuppositions on culinary authenticity are plenty and dynamic among stakeholders of the food industry, be it an immigrant consumer, culinary expert, food critic or a restaurateur. This paper attempts to study the various aspects concerning culinary authenticity and diaspora, analysing viewpoints of the stakeholders.
Effect of the State-of-the-Art Condenser Configuration on the Performance of Axially Rotating Wickless Heat Pipes
Authors: Soliman Mohab , Shedid Mohamed , El-Hameed Hala Abd , Abou-Ziyan Hosny
Published: May 2024

This experimental study aimed to investigate the effect of a newly shaped condenser on the thermal performance and operational parameters of a horizontally rotating wickless heat pipe. The new condenser shape has been developed based on assessing the effect of conical external ends and inner tapered wall condensers. The newly developed condenser configuration implies an external conical end of 60 deg and an inner tapered walls condenser of 3 deg. The heat pipe was subjected to a consistent rotational speed of 1500 rpm while being exposed to different heat loads, ranging from 25 to 200 W. Various filling ratios of water, from 5% to 55% of the total inner volume of the heat pipe, have been tested at rotation speeds of 750, 1000, and 1500 rpm. The results indicated that the heat pipe with the advanced condenser has a superior performance over the ones with the plain condenser by 46.75%, the conical end condenser by about 31.15%, and the tapered condenser by about 7.54%, on average over the tested heat loads from 25 to 200 W. The filling ratio of 25% achieved better performance than the other tested filling ratios as the effective thermal resistance of the heat pipe decreased by 3.1–10.1%, 2.8–19.5%, and 8.9–24.8% for rotational speeds 750, 1000, and 1500 rpm, respectively.
Critical Velocities of Single-Layer and Two-Layer Composite Tubes of Transversely Isotropic Materials Based on a Potential Function Method in Three-Dimensional Elasticity
Authors: Gao X.-L.
Published: May 2024

Critical velocities of a single-layer tube of a transversely isotropic material and a two-layer composite tube consisting of two perfectly bonded cylindrical layers of dissimilar transversely isotropic materials are analytically determined using the potential function method of Elliott in three-dimensional (3D) elasticity. The displacement and stress components in each transversely isotropic layer of the tube subjected to a uniform internal pressure moving at a constant velocity are derived in integral forms by applying the Fourier transform method. The solution includes those for a tube composed of two dissimilar cubic or isotropic materials as special cases. In addition, it is shown that the model for the two-layer composite tube can be reduced to that for the single-layer tube. Closed-form expressions for four critical velocities are derived for the single-layer tube. The lowest critical velocity is obtained from plotting the velocity curve and finding the inflection point for both the single-layer and two-layer composite tubes. To illustrate the newly developed models, two cases are studied as examples—one for a single-layer isotropic steel tube and the other for a two-layer composite tube consisting of an isotropic steel inner layer and a transversely isotropic glass-epoxy outer layer. The numerical values of the lowest critical velocity predicted by the new 3D elasticity-based models are obtained and compared with those given by existing models based on thin- and thick-shell theories.
Robust Contact Computation in Non-Rigid Variation Simulation
Authors: Tabar Roham Sadeghi , Lorin Samuel , Lindkvist Lars , Wärmefjord Kristina , Söderberg Rikard
Published: May 2024

In non-rigid variation simulation, contact modeling is used to avoid the virtual penetration of the components in the adjacent areas. Numerical errors and convergence issues due to the deformation behavior of the interacting surfaces are limiting the computational efficiency of solving the contact problem. In this paper, a quadratic programming approach has been introduced based on the Lagrangian multiplier method for robust contact modeling in non-rigid variation simulation, and the performance of the proposed approach has been compared to the previously applied iterative and barrier function methods. The methods have been compared on three industrial reference cases, and the convergence and time-efficiency of each method are compared. The results show that robust optimization of the quadratic program associated with the contact model is highly dependent on the reduced stiffness matrix condition. Furthermore, it has been shown that robust and efficient contact computation in non-rigid variation simulation is achievable through the proposed augmented Lagrangian method.
Federated Learning on Distributed and Encrypted Data for Smart Manufacturing
Authors: Kuo Timothy , Yang Hui
Published: May 2024

Industry 4.0 drives exponential growth in the amount of operational data collected in factories. These data are commonly distributed and stored in different business units or cooperative companies. Such data-rich environments increase the likelihood of cyber attacks, privacy breaches, and security violations. Also, this poses significant challenges on analytical computing on sensitive data that are distributed among different business units. To fill this gap, this article presents a novel privacy-preserving framework to enable federated learning on siloed and encrypted data for smart manufacturing. Specifically, we leverage fully homomorphic encryption (FHE) to allow for computation on ciphertexts and generate encrypted results that, when decrypted, match the results of mathematical operations performed on the plaintexts. Multilayer encryption and privacy protection reduce the likelihood of data breaches while maintaining the prediction performance of analytical models. Experimental results in real-world case studies show that the proposed framework yields superior performance to reduce the risk of cyber attacks and harness siloed data for smart manufacturing.
The Study of Thermal–Structural Coupling Deformation Analysis for Flexible Space Manipulator in Orbit
Authors: Zhang Fuli , Zhang Fuzhi , Liang Na
Published: May 2024

The space manipulator can assist astronauts to accomplish space activities, including docking, fixing, and grasping. It is subjected to thermal radiation and produces thermal deformation during orbit operation, which makes the operation of the space manipulator deviate from the predetermined trajectory and further affects its positioning accuracy. Therefore, to solve the problem of bidirectional coupling thermal–structural deformation analysis and positioning accuracy for space manipulator, based on the thermal–structural bidirectional coupling deformation analysis, a method of its thermal deformation on the output positioning accuracy of space flexible manipulator is proposed. It analyzes the bidirectional coupling relationship between the temperature and thermal deformation of the manipulators. Then, the influence of thermal deformation on the output joint error and end positioning accuracy of the space manipulator is analyzed. Finally, the validity of this method is verified by numerical analysis. Compared with the unidirectional coupling model, the bidirectional coupling model comprehensively considers the structure, deformation, and temperature of manipulators. It is closer to the real system. Thermal deformation will reduce the reliable runtime of the space manipulator in orbit. The study provides a theoretical basis for its thermal design and control.
Evaluation of treatment of methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
biofilms with intermittent electrochemically generated H
2
O
2
or HOCl
Authors: Anoy Md Monzurul Islam , Kim Won-Jun , Gelston Suzanne , Fleming Derek , Patel Robin , Beyenal Haluk
Published: May 2024

Chronic wound infections can be difficult to treat and may lead to impaired healing and worsened patient outcomes. Novel treatment strategies are needed. This study evaluated the effects of intermittently produced hydrogen peroxide (H
2
O
2
) and hypochlorous acid (HOCl), generated via an electrochemical bandage (e-bandage), against methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
biofilms in an agar membrane biofilm model. By changing the working electrode potential, the e-bandage generated either HOCl (1.5 V
Ag/AgCl
) or H
2
O
2
(−0.6 V
Ag/AgCl
). The degree of biocidal activity of intermittent treatment with HOCl and H
2
O
2
correlated with HOCl treatment time; HOCl treatment durations of 0, 1.5, 3, 4.5, and 6 hours (with the rest of the 6-hour total treatment time devoted to H
2
O
2
generation) resulted in mean biofilm reductions of 1.36 ± 0.2, 2.22 ± 0.16, 3.46 ± 0.38, 4.63 ± 0.74, and 7.66 ± 0.5 log CFU/cm
2
, respectively, vs. non-polarized controls, respectively. However, application of H
2
O
2
immediately after HOCl treatment was detrimental to biofilm removal. For example, 3 hours HOCl treatment followed by 3 hours H
2
O
2
resulted in a 1.90 ± 0.84 log CFU/cm
2
lower mean biofilm reduction than 3 hours HOCl treatment followed by 3 hours non-polarization. HOCl generated over 3 hours exhibited biocidal activity for at least 7.5 hours after e-bandage operation ceased; 3 hours of HOCl generation followed by 7.5 hours of non-polarization resulted in a biofilm cell reduction of 7.92 ± 0.12 log CFU/cm
2
vs. non-polarized controls. Finally, intermittent treatment with HOCl (i.e., interspersed with periods of e-bandage non-polarization) for various intervals showed similar effects (approximately 6 log CFU/cm
2
reduction vs. non-polarized control) to continuous treatment with HOCl for 3 hours, followed by 3 hours of non-polarization. These findings suggest that timing and sequencing of HOCl and H
2
O
2
treatments are crucial for maximizing biofilm control when using an e-bandage strategy.