bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transcriptome mining extends the host range of theFlaviviridaeto non-bilaterians
Authors: Mifsud Jonathon C.O. , Costa Vincenzo A. , Petrone Mary E. , Marzinelli Ezequiel M. , Holmes Edward C. , Harvey Erin
Published: November 2022

TheFlaviviridaeare a family of positive-sense RNA viruses that include well-documented agents of human disease. Despite their importance and ubiquity, the time-scale of flaviviral evolution is uncertain. An ancient origin, spanning time-scales of millions of years, is supported by their presence in both vertebrates and invertebrates and the identification of a flavivirus-derived endogenous viral element in the peach blossom jellyfish genome (Craspedacusta Sowerby, phylum Cnidaria), implying that the flaviviruses arose early in the evolution of the Metazoa. To date, however, no exogenous flavivirus sequences have been identified in these hosts. To help resolve the antiquity of theFlavivirdaewe mined publicly available transcriptome data across the Metazoa. From this, we expanded the diversity within the family through the identification of 32 novel viral sequences, and extended the host range of the pestiviruses to include amphibians, reptiles, and ray-finned fish. Through cophylogenetic analysis we found cross-species transmission to be the predominate macroevolutionary event across the non-vectored flaviviral genera (median, 68%), including a cross-species transmission event between bats and rodents, although long-term virus-host co-divergence was still a regular occurrence (median, 23%). Notably, we discovered flavivirus-like sequences in basal metazoan species, including the first associated with Cnidaria. This sequence formed a basal lineage to the genusFlavivirusand was closer to arthropod and crustacean flaviviruses than those in the tamanavirus group that include a variety of invertebrate and vertebrate viruses. Combined, these data attest an ancient origin of the flaviviruses, close to the emergence of the metazoans 750–800 million years ago.
The effect of temporary workers and works councils on process innovation
Authors: Durach Christian F. , Wiengarten Frank , Pagell Mark
Published: November 2022

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the effects of temporary workers and works councils on process innovations at manufacturing sites. The impact of temporary workers, commonly viewed as a means of operational flexibility and cost savings, on firms’ ability to innovate is underexplored. Works councils represent and help integrate temporary workers, but are often equated with unions, which have been criticized as barriers to innovation, especially in the US.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use secondary data collected by the Institute for Employment Research (IAB) of the German Federal Employment Agency. Specifically, the authors conduct a series of regression analyses using 11-year panel data covering the period 2009–2019 with 11,641 manufacturing site-year observations.

Findings

The results suggest that the use of temporary workers initially promotes process innovation, but at too high a level, it impairs firms’ ability to innovate. Furthermore, the results suggest that works councils have a positive impact on innovation and dampen the curvilinear effect found with respect to temporary workers.

Originality/value

Research has largely focused on the cost and flexibility benefits of temporary workers. The authors analyze the effectiveness of temporary workers in terms of innovativeness. By including works councils, the study also consider the contextual environment in which temporary workers are employed. Finally, the results reject the assumption that works councils have a similar negative impact as unions on innovation; in fact, the authors find the opposite.
The role of resource investment as a key element for resolving the bank size paradox
Authors: Dahlan Rolan Mauludy , Kasali Rhenald , Wijanto Setyo Hari , Haryanto Jony Oktavian
Published: November 2022

Purpose

This study aims to explore the role of resource investment in resolving the bank size paradox, in which there is a direct positive impact on financial performance but also the potential for increased business diversification, which thus poses the risk of a negative impact on financial performance.

Design/methodology/approach

This study assessed secondary data on 108 commercial banks in Indonesia using specific document types, including financial reports and banking directory reports published by the financial regulatory authority. The data thus obtained were analysed via covariance-based structural equation modelling.

Findings

In the context of the Indonesian banking industry, the results showed that firm size (or bank size) had positive effects on both diversification strategy and financial performance. Meanwhile, diversification strategy had a direct negative impact on financial performance but an indirect positive effect on financial performance when mediated by resource investment.

Originality/value

While this study empirically demonstrated the existence of the bank size paradox, the results confirmed that it could be reduced through the strategic role of resource investment, which minimises the negative impacts of diversification strategies on financial performance.
The effects of web-based language learning on university students' translation proficiency
Authors: Muftah Muneera
Published: November 2022

Purpose

Web-based language learning (WBLL) materials have long been favored by English language instructors because they are plentiful, easily accessible, user-friendly and, most importantly, free. This research looks into the effects of learning the simple perfect tense translation in three different English translation classes that used three different teaching methods: traditional face-to-face, integrative and web-based learning. It also aims to investigate the impact of gender on every mode of instruction and to identify the most effective method for learning translation.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is quantitative, with a pretest/posttest quasi-experimental research design. A total of 93 third-year undergraduate students (51 female and 42 male students) participated in the pretest/posttest design. Each group was exposed to one mode of instruction for nine weeks. All groups sat for a pretest in the first week of the treatment. After the treatment, the participants were provided with a posttest, and the data obtained were analyzed using the SPSS computer software program.

Findings

The findings revealed a significant difference in both tests for all modes used. All three groups improved in their gain score, but the highest gain among these groups was the integrative method, followed by web-based learning. The result of the independent sample t-tests and ANOVA exhibited that there was no significant difference in the level of students between the two groups, both were sig. two-tailed (p = 0.342). Furthermore, it was discovered that gender did not affect students' performance in the posttest (Z = −1.564, p > 0.05) when each mode of instruction was applied. Finally, the integrative method was observed to be the most effective.

Practical implications

The findings can inspire translation course designers to plan necessary policies or syllabi regarding English translation courses and may serve as a platform for improving the curriculum for training and motivating the next generation of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners.

Originality/value

The findings of this study could be used to improve English instruction in countries where English is a second or foreign language. The actual gap in knowledge is that no other studies have compared all three groups in the past few years.
Effects of annealing and acetone vapor smoothing on the tensile properties and surface roughness of FDM printed ABS components
Authors: Torres Jonathan , Abo Elijah , Sugar Anthony Joseph
Published: November 2022

Purpose

This study aims to present the optimization of parameters and effects of annealing and vapor smoothing post-processing treatments on the surface roughness and tensile mechanical properties of fused deposition modeling (FDM) printed acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS).

Design/methodology/approach

Full-factorial test matrices were designed to determine the most effective treatment parameters for post-processing. The parameters for annealing were temperature and time, whereas the parameters for the vapor smoothing were volume of acetone and time. Analysis of surface roughness and tensile test results determined influences of the levels of parameters to find an ideal balance between mechanical properties and roughness.

Findings

Optimal parameters for vapor smoothing and annealing were determined. Vapor smoothing resulted in significantly higher improvements to surface roughness than annealing. Both treatments generally resulted in decreased mechanical properties. Of all treatments tested, annealing at 100 °C for 60 min provided the greatest benefit to tensile properties and vapor smoothing with 20 mL of acetone for 15 min provided the greatest benefit to surface roughness while balancing effects on properties.

Originality/value

Vapor smoothing and annealing of FDM ABS have typically been studied independently for their effects on surface roughness and material properties, respectively, with varying materials and manufacturing methods. This study objectively compares the effects of each treatment on both characteristics simultaneously to recommend ideal treatments for maximizing the balance between the final quality and performance of FDM components. The significance of the input variables for each treatment have also been analyzed. These findings should provide value to end-users of 3D printed components seeking to balance these critical aspects of manufacturing.
A first‐arrival wave recognition method based on the optimal dominant energy spectrum
Authors: Liu Hongwei , Liu Huaishan , Li Qianqian , Liu Hong , Xing Lei
Published: November 2022

Refraction seismic data acquired by wide‐angle ocean‐bottom seismometers are typically used to invert geological structures. Accurate and reliable first‐arrival traveltime picks are therefore critical to successful refraction data processing. Unfortunately, signal‐to‐noise ratios of refraction data acquired by wide‐angle ocean‐bottom seismometers at far offsets are usually low; thus, conventional methods such as the energy ratio method and correlation analysis method usually fail to accurately and efficiently determine the refraction phase. We therefore develop a novel first‐arrival wave recognition method based on the optimal dominant energy spectrum to improve the accuracy of refraction wave picking on wide‐angle ocean‐bottom seismometer data. The method consists of three steps. The first step is to obtain the optimal dominant energy spectrum according to the power spectrum density of sample scanning. Second, the initial position of the first‐arrival wave is recognized by combining the range of the optimal dominant energy spectrum and the maximum point of its derivative. Third, the modified cross‐correlation method adjusts the initial position to obtain a more accurate arrival time. In this paper, we illustrate the workflow and feasibility of the proposed method via testing on model data. Then, the method is used to determine the first‐arrival time of field wide‐angle ocean‐bottom seismometer data acquired in the Southwest Pacific Ocean and Xisha Islands. The results show that our method can accurately pick the refraction phase at offsets as far as 80 km, thus significantly reducing the uncertainties in first‐arrival phase picking.
THE PRESENCE OF THE ABSENCE: Indigenous Palestinian Urbanism in Israel
Authors: Blatman Naama , Sabbagh‐Khoury Areej
Published: November 2022

This essay puts forward a theoretical framework for Palestinian Indigenous urbanism. It argues that the specific and diverse expressions of this urbanism are partly an outcome of the fact that Palestinian cities—as a modern urban form—predate the Zionist settler colonization of Palestine. We centre the longue durée of Palestinian urbanism as a constitutive mode for contemporary experiences of Palestinian citizens in Israel and link it to Israel's persistent attempts to erase the urban landscapes of Palestine, symbolically and materially. We discuss how the de‐urbanization of Historic Palestinian cities in Israel since the beginning of the Nakba has drastically changed the urban and rural landscapes of these cities, ultimately leading Palestinians to adapt, develop and create new forms of urbanism in and around cities. Although Palestinians live in very different types of cities today, Palestinian urbanism broadly manifests as a presence of the absence, namely as the recursion of pre‐1948 urban life. Thus, in this essay we provide a new lens through which to understand Indigenous urbanism as a recursive and relational anti‐hegemonic structure that predates and can outlive settler‐colonial violence.
Comparative response of two seasonal spotted wing drosophila (Drosophila suzukii) morphs to different classes of insecticides
Authors: Seong Keon Mook , Sun Weilin , Huang Juan , Gut Larry , Kim Young Ho , Pittendrigh Barry R.
Published: November 2022

Drosophila suzukii Matsumura (Drosophilidae) is a devasting invasive pest affecting berry crops and cherry production throughout North America, South America, and Europe. This species has two different morph phenotypes, winter and summer morphs, which are temperature dependent. Chemical control is the most widely used management approach for managing the spotted wing drosophila, D. suzukii. Little is known regarding the differential response of the two seasonal morphs to insecticides. In this study, we identified a high number of differentially expressed genes likely involved in phase I, II, and III of detoxification pathways and other cuticular proteins in winter morphs as compared to summer morphs. Specifically, several detoxification genes (phase I: Cyp4e3, Cyp4s3, Cyp6d5, Cyp49a1, Cyp318a1; phase II: GstD10, Ugt35Bb, Ugt37b1, Ugt58Fa; phase III: Mdr65) were overexpressed more than two‐fold in winter morph. Additionally, we determined the median lethal concentration, LC50, values of Malathion, Cyantraniliprole, Imidan, Zeta‐cypermethrin, and Spinetoram insecticides to compare the insecticide susceptibility against two seasonal morphs of D. suzukii. For most of the pesticides tested, there were no differences between the LC50 values, between summer and winter morphs, however, we found that winter morph exhibited an LC50 value of Spinetoram 3.7‐fold, significantly higher than that of the summer morph. Overall, we demonstrated that seasonally induced different morphological phenotypes may result in different transcriptional response of phases I, II, and III of the detoxification pathways and other cuticular proteins. However, we found different responses to at least one insecticide, Spinetoram. It remains to be determined what are underlying physiological differences that lead to these changes in response to Spinetoram.
Mapping Structurally Controlled Alterations Sparked by Hydrothermal Activity in the Fatira–Abu Zawal Area, Eastern Desert, Egypt
Authors: BADAWI Mohamed , ABDELATIF Mahmoud , SHEBL Ali , MAKROUM Farid , SHALABY Ahmed , NÉMETH Norbert
Published: November 2022

The Eastern Desert of Egypt suffered a protracted period of deformation triggered by cratonization of the new juvenile crust known as the Arabian Nubian Shield (ANS), which has been proposed for potential gold discoveries associated with the corresponding tectonic event. The Fatira area, on the border of Egypt's Northern and Central Eastern Deserts, is covered with metavolcanic rocks twisted by a dextral relocation of the Fatira Shear Zone (FSZ) relative to the Barud magmatic body. The recent study evaluated many deformed post‐orogenic granitic intrusions and felsite dikes associated with promising mineralization localities, notably orogenic gold deposits. The combination of various field observations and remote sensing data, followed by the analysis of aeromagnetic enhanced maps, allowed the differentiation of distinct lithologies, structural features, and hydrothermal alterations in the study area. Additionally, the integrated results obtained from the different interpretation techniques are utilized to identify and confirm the previously supposed mineralized localities in the Fatira and Abu Zawal areas and predict other matched localities. The final ASTER, Sentinel 2 hydrothermal alteration, and orientation entropy heat maps demonstrate the association between these mineralized regions and major structures related to the FSZ late stage of deformation rather than other structures studied throughout the area of interest.
Ventilation challenge in rigid bronchoscopy: Laser tube as an alternative management in patients with lung cancer and central airway obstruction
Authors: Messina Gaetana , Bove Mary , Natale Giovanni , Di Filippo Vincenzo , Opromolla Giorgia , Massimilla Eva , Forte Mauro , Rainone Anna , Vicario Giuseppe , Leonardi Beatrice , Fiorelli Alfonso , Vicidomini Giovanni , Santini Mario , Pirozzi Mario , Caterino Marianna , Della Corte Carminia Maria , Ciardiello Fortunato , Fasano Morena
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Central airway tumors involving the trachea and main‐stem bronchi are a common cause of airway obstruction and a significant cause of mortality among the patients of thoracic diseases with respiratory failure. Debulking in rigid bronchoscopy is quick, safe, and effective. It can be complex and hard in patients with severe bronchial or tracheal obstruction and/or with intraluminal bleeding tumors because of inadequate distal airway control. We have used laser tube as a new technique of ventilation for severe central airway obstruction.

Materials and Methods

Forty‐six patients with severe airway obstruction undergoing rigid bronchoscopy from September 2020 to June 2022 at the Thoracic Surgery Department of the University L. Vanvitelli of Naples underwent placement of laser tube.

Results

In all patients who underwent rigid bronchoscopy with the use of the laser tube, a reduction of obstruction of more than 50% was obtained and in all patients no hypoxia (saturation < 88%), nor hypercapnia, nor significant bleeding were reported.

Discussion

The results of this study suggest that rigid bronchoscopic debulking with the use of laser tube is a safe and effective technique in the management of central airway obstruction.

Conclusions

The use of the laser tube allows the monitoring of gas exchange, which controls hypoxemia. Thanks to the double cuff put distally to the tracheal obstruction or in the contralateral bronchus to the obstructed one, the laser tube prevents the flooding of blood from debulking below the stenosis. Rigid bronchoscopy with laser tube will expand its use in the future.
The full blood count in screening asymptomatic infants for early‐onset sepsis: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Coveney John , O'Loughlin John , Ainle Fionnuala Ní , Drew Richard J. , Boyle Michael A.
Published: November 2022

Aim

The full blood count (FBC) is commonly measured as part of a partial septic work‐up in asymptomatic infants at increased risk of early‐onset neonatal sepsis (EOS). To determine the impact of FBC parameters on infants' subsequent management a retrospective cross‐sectional study was performed.

Methods

Infants, born at ≥34 weeks gestation, asymptomatic at birth, undergoing a partial septic work‐up and receiving prophylactic antibiotics due to increased risk of EOS in a single centre over a 2‐year period, were included. The primary outcome measure was frequency of FBC result impacting on duration of antibiotic therapy. Secondary outcome measures included frequency of FBC parameters outside of the reference range and incidental diagnoses.

Results

In total, 16 726 live‐born infants were delivered during the study period. A total of 802 (4.8%) were included. Thirteen infants (1.6%) received a prolonged course of antibiotics due to suspicion for EOS. Two of these infants had elevated white cell counts. All had normal neutrophil counts. In no case did the FBC result influence the decision to prolong the antibiotic course.

Conclusion

In a cohort of 802 infants, asymptomatic at birth and at increased risk of EOS, the FBC result did not impact on the decision to prolong the course of antibiotics for suspicion of EOS.
The complexity of dental anxiety and its association with oral health‐related quality of life: An exploratory study
Authors: Aardal Vilde , Evensen Kjersti Berge , Willumsen Tiril , Hervik Bull Vibeke
Published: November 2022

This study aimed to explore the factors associated with oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL) in a sample with high dental anxiety. Data were obtained from 107 patients attending a therapeutic treatment program for people who have experienced abuse and for those with dental phobia in Norway. Patients completed questionnaires, including the Index of Dental Anxiety and Fear, the Anxiety subscale of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and the Oral Impacts on Daily Performance scale, measuring OHRQoL prior to treatment. The various measurement instruments were evaluated psychometrically, and the variables associated with OHRQoL were explored using hierarchical multiple regression. Symptoms of dental anxiety and general anxiety were high, while OHRQoL was poor. Dental anxiety, higher age, higher number of years since the last dental treatment, and higher general anxiety were discernibly associated with lower OHRQoL. The strongest association was found between general anxiety and OHRQoL. In conclusion, several factors were associated with OHRQoL in a sample with high dental anxiety, suggesting a complex picture of dental anxiety. When treating patients with high dental anxiety, dental practitioners should be aware that there may be factors complicating the therapeutic setting, such as general anxiety.
Fish movements in response to environmental flow releases in intermittent rivers
Authors: Carpenter‐Bundhoo Luke , Butler Gavin L. , Bond Nick R. , Thiem Jason D. , Bunn Stuart E. , Kennard Mark J.
Published: November 2022

Variation in river flow is a strong behavioural determinant for the movement of many freshwater fish species and often is linked to key aspects of their life cycle. The alteration of natural flow regimes to meet human water demands can result in changes to this variability, and cause declines in water‐dependent biota. Environmental flows are used as a remediation tool in some regulated rivers with the intention of restoring aspects of the natural flow regime to benefit riverine species, although empirical data are required to inform the efficacy of these interventions.

Using acoustic telemetry, we quantified the movement responses of two large‐bodied native fish species (freshwater catfish, Tandanus tandanus and Murray cod, Maccullochella peelii) to variations in river flow over 4 years in two intermittent regulated rivers in the northern Murray–Darling Basin, Australia. Both rivers received periodic environmental flow releases and also there were several large natural flow events during the study period.

Both species displayed a range of intra‐specific movement behaviours. Analysis of individuals' movements revealed five distinct functional groups, which were represented in both species. We found that periods of environmental flow delivery played an important role in the movement behaviour of both species. Murray cod were more likely to move during periods of environmental flow releases, whereas freshwater catfish were less likely to move on an environmental release following higher antecedent flows.

No large‐scale philopatric movements were observed, yet Murray cod were more likely to move during the breeding period, indicative of nest site selection. We also found that the likelihood of movement in both species was higher in the smaller of the two rivers for a given magnitude of flow.

Our results suggest that environmental flows may benefit certain fish species by facilitating, rather than cueing breeding behaviours, allowing individuals improved access to, and provision of, higher‐quality nesting habitats.

These findings will aid water managers in creating economical and targeted environmental flow releases, timing larger flow pulses for the species with flow‐cued reproductive strategies, and providing a continuity of smaller baseflows for species whose reproduction is not dependent on flow cues but may be enhanced by greater connectivity.
Periphyton and benthivorous fish affect charophyte abundance and indicate hidden nutrient loading in oligo‐ and mesotrophic temperate hardwater lakes
Authors: Alirangues Nuñez Marta Maria , Hussner Andreas , Mauersberger Rüdiger , Brämick Uwe , Hühn Daniel , He Liang , Hilt Sabine
Published: November 2022

Charophytes are a key group of submerged macrophytes in temperate hardwater lakes, but have declined or been replaced by angiosperms as a result of eutrophication for more than 100 years. At present, this process is continuing in many European lakes despite an overall reduced nutrient loading. In eutrophic lakes, light attenuation by periphyton is a major factor responsible for declining angiosperm abundance. For charophyte declines, the impact of benthivorous and herbivorous fish has been discussed often, yet periphyton shading has been largely neglected.

In our study, we investigated 11 temperate oligo‐mesotrophic (total phosphorus [P] concentrations 9–22 μg/L) hardwater lakes along a gradient of charophyte abundances. Charophyte abundance was mapped using underwater cameras or scuba diving, and coverage was estimated in five classes. Periphyton biomass, nutrient stoichiometry and invertebrate grazer abundance were measured twice on artificial substrates exposed inside and outside fish exclosures for 4 weeks in July and August. Fish biomass was sampled once using multi‐mesh gill netting.

We analysed the relationships between water chemistry (concentrations of nutrients and dissolved organic carbon), periphyton biomass and nutrient stoichiometry, periphytic invertebrate grazers and fish biomass to test (a) whether periphyton biomass was controlled bottom‐up by nutrient availability or top‐down by an omnivorous fish–invertebrate–grazer cascade and (b) whether charophyte abundance was affected by periphyton biomass, benthivorous and herbivorous fish.

Multiple linear regressions revealed that charophyte abundance was significantly predicted by the biomasses of periphyton and benthivorous bream (Abramis brama L.), whereas herbivorous rudd (Scardinius erythrophthalmus L.) had no significant effect in the investigated lakes. Bream biomass and its proportion in the total fish biomass were linearly related to lake total P concentrations.

Periphyton biomass in the tested lakes reached 0.1–21 g dry weight/m2 and primarily was controlled bottom‐up by P availability as indicated from stoichiometry and positive correlations with grazer abundance. Top‐down control was found in only three lakes, which had significantly lower periphyton biomass inside fish exclosures as compared to controls.

Our data imply that periphyton shading and negative fish impacts on charophytes increase with P loading. Low charophyte abundances at moderate P concentrations in the lake water indicate a high sensitivity of charophytes and/or unnoticed nutrient loading due to nutrient retention by charophyte stands. Management measures thus must focus on reducing nutrient loading and/or benthivorous fish biomass at early stages of impact to preserve charophyte stands in oligo‐mesotrophic hardwater lakes.
IDEAL study: A real‐world assessment of pattern of use and clinical outcomes with recombinant coagulation factor IX albumin fusion protein (rIX‐FP) in patients with haemophilia B in Italy
Authors: Tagliaferri Annarita , Molinari Angelo Claudio , Peyvandi Flora , Coppola Antonio , Demartis Francesco , Biasoli Chiara , Borchiellini Alessandra , Cultrera Dorina , De Cristofaro Raimondo , Daniele Filomena , Giordano Paola , Marchesini Emanuela , Margaglione Maurizio , Marino Renato , Pollio Berardino , Radossi Paolo , Santoro Cristina , Santoro Rita Carlotta , Siragusa Sergio , Sottilotta Gianluca , Tosetto Alberto , Piscitelli Lydia , Villa Maria Rosaria , Zanon Ezio , Finardi Adele , Schiavetti Irene , Vaccari Daniella , Castaman Giancarlo
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Factor IX replacement therapy is used for treatment and prophylaxis of bleeding in haemophilia B. rIX‐FP is an extended half‐life albumin‐fusion protein, which, in clinical studies, has demonstrated prolonged dosing intervals up to 21 days for routine prophylaxis, providing therapeutic benefit.

Aims

To describe dosing frequency and consumption (primary endpoint), efficacy and safety of rIX‐FP treatment during routine clinical practice in Italy.

Methods

Patients with moderate/severe haemophilia B on prophylaxis with rIX‐FP for ≥6 months, were enrolled in this observational study from October 2017 to February 2019 and followed‐up for 2 years. Descriptive analysis included prospective and retrospective data (12 months prior to switching to rIX‐FP).

Results

Data were collected from 59 male patients (median age 30.1 years) enrolled by 23 Italian centres. Of them, 50 were on prophylaxis during the entire observation period and completed the study. The infusion frequency changed from 2–3 times/week in 86.0% of patients with previous treatment, to less than once a week in 84.0% of patients treated with rIX‐FP at the 2nd‐year follow‐up. The annual number of infusions decreased by about 70%, whereas the mean FIX activity trough level increased from 3.8% to 14.4% (mean > 10% in all the infusion regimens). Median Annualised Bleeding Rate of .0 was achieved across all prophylaxis regimens. Subjects with zero bleedings increased from 66.0% to 78.0% with rIX‐FP.

Conclusion

Treatment with rIX‐FP reduced infusion frequency, while providing higher FIX trough levels with substantial benefit in terms of annualised bleeding rate and a good safety profile.
The effect of the COVID‐19 pandemic on headache‐related disability among young adults with migraine
Authors: Thaxter Lauren Y. , Smitherman Todd A.
Published: November 2022

Objective

The present study aimed to explore the relationship between the COVID‐19 pandemic and headache‐related disability among a sample of young adults with migraine.

Background

Comorbid psychological symptoms compound migraine‐related disability. Due to COVID‐19 pandemic procedures, many students experienced institutional closures and corresponding increases in depression, stress, and anxiety. The present study sought to examine changes in headache‐related disability before (Spring and Fall of 2019) and during (Fall of 2020 and Spring 2021) the COVID‐19 pandemic and whether psychological symptoms mediated such changes.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study at a southern U.S. university assessed 365 individuals with migraine on headache and psychological variables, comparing those surveyed before COVID‐19 with another group surveyed during the pandemic. The direct and indirect effects of COVID‐19 status (pre‐ versus during COVID‐19) on headache‐related disability through depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms were assessed.

Results

Statistically higher levels of depression, (M = 13.9 [SD = 12.2] vs. M = 8.7 [SD = 8.7], p < 0.001), anxiety (12.3 [10.0] vs. 9.7 [8.2], p = 0.01), and stress symptoms (17.6 [10.2] vs. 13.2 [7.9], p < 0.001) were endorsed during the COVID‐19 pandemic. The direct path from COVID‐19 status to headache‐related disability was significant and negative, c′ = −1.6 (95% CI: −3.1, −0.1). Anxiety (b = 0.3 [95% CI: 0.01, 0.9]) and depression (b = 0.7 [95% CI: 0.07, 1.4]) symptoms acted as mediators of this relationship, rendering the total effect nonsignificant and negating the lowered disability observed during the pandemic. Only depression symptoms remained a significant mediator after controlling for headache frequency (b = 0.7 [95% CI: 0.09, 1.4]).

Conclusions

Increased depression and anxiety symptoms attenuated the improvements in disability associated with the pandemic. As such, interventions that address comorbid psychological symptoms may hold value in reducing headache‐related disability and improving outcomes for young adults whose headache developed or worsened during the COVID‐19 pandemic.
The correlation between nutritional and health potential and antioxidant properties of raw edible oils from cultivated and wild plants
Authors: Martysiak‐Żurowska Dorota , Orzołek Małgorzata
Published: November 2022

The nutritional properties and health potential of oils from 15 various cultivated and wild plants were investigated on the basis of the fatty acids profiles, total carotenoids and tocopherols content, antioxidant properties and health potential indexes such as atherogenicity index (AI). The oil contents of the plants varied between 0.9 g/100 g for lychee seeds and 29.7 g/100 g for borage seeds. The tocopherol content in oils ranged from 0.31 (lingonberry fruits) to 226.23 mg/100 g (hawthorn pulp), carotenoids ranged from 0.36 (borage seeds) to 14.22 mg/100 g (blackcurrant seeds). In four oils (raspberry seed, strawberry seed, lingonberry fruits, blackcurrant seeds) the PUFA contents contributed over 70% of the total fatty acids (FA), which was associated with the best values health potential indexes. It was found that TAC (Total Antioxidant Capacity) can be an indirect measure of the levels of carotenoids and tocopherols in oils. Additionally, a positive correlation between the level of carotenoids and the FA n‐3 was demonstrated. Determining such relationships may facilitate research into new sources of valuable edible oils useful for the production of functional foods, dietary supplements and cosmetics.
Segmentación legal y primer colonialismo en África Subsahariana. Informalidad y empleo típico colonial en condiciones de explotación
Authors: FECHNER Heiner
Published: November 2022

Los mercados laborales de África Subsahariana se caracterizan por una división de género entre los sectores formal e informal, que proviene de una racionalidad introducida por la segmentación legal colonial racista con sesgo de género en varios regímenes jurídicos dentro y fuera de la legislación laboral. La segmentación en los entornos poscoloniales no puede entenderse ni superarse sin analizar los orígenes institucionales coloniales específicos de mercantilización del trabajo. El «empleo típico colonial en condiciones de explotación» en África Subsahariana favorecía la contratación formal de hombres negros africanos al servicio de empleadores europeos, excluyendo o marginando a las mujeres y las relaciones laborales domésticas.
NR4A1 mediates NK‐cell dysfunction in hepatocellular carcinoma via the IFN‐γ/p‐STAT1/IRF1 pathway
Authors: Yu Weiwei , He Jianbo , Wang Fei , He Qifeng , Shi Yuze , Tao Xuewen , Sun Beicheng
Published: November 2022

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most fatal tumours worldwide and has a high recurrence rate. Nevertheless, the mechanism of HCC genesis remains partly unexplored, while the efficiency of HCC treatments remains limited. The present study analysed the expression of nuclear receptor subfamily 4 group A member 1 (NR4A1) in tumour‐infiltrating natural killer (NK) cells derived from both human patients with HCC and tumour‐bearing mouse models, as well as the features of NR4A1high and NR4A1low NK cells. In addition, knockout of NR4A1 by CRISPR/Cas9 and adoptive transfer experiments were applied to verify the function of NR4A1 in both tumour‐infiltrating NK cells and anti‐PD‐1 therapy. The present study found that NR4A1 was significantly highly expressed in tumour‐infiltrating NK cells, which mediated the dysfunction of tumour‐infiltrating NK cells by regulating the IFN‐γ/p‐STAT1/IRF1 signalling pathway. Knockout of NR4A1 in NK cells not only restored the antitumour function of NK cells but also enhanced the efficacy of anti‐PD‐1 therapy. The present findings suggest a regulatory role of NR4A1 in the immune progress of NK cells against HCC, which may provide a new direction for immunotherapies of HCC.
A meta‐analysis examined the effect of stoma on surgical site wound infection in colorectal cancer
Authors: Chang Zimeng , Liu Liang , She Canfang , Ren Wei , Chen Hua , Zhou Caihong
Published: November 2022

To assess the impact of a stoma on surgical site wound infection in colorectal cancer, we conducted a meta‐analysis. A thorough review of the literature up to September 2022 revealed that 3223 participants had colorectal cancer at the start of the investigations; 258 of them had a stoma, while 2965 did not have a stoma. Using dichotomous or contentious methods and a random or fixed‐effect model, odds ratios (OR) and mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated to evaluate the impact of a stoma on surgical site wound infection in colorectal cancer. The stoma present had significantly higher surgical site wound infections (OR, 4.37; 95% CI, 3.08–6.21; P < 0.001) with no heterogeneity (I2 = 12%) compared to stoma absent in colorectal cancer. The stoma present had significantly higher surgical site wound infections compared to the stoma absent in colorectal cancer. The low number of selected studies in the meta‐analysis calls for care when analysing the results.
In both directions: Expansions of European land snails to the north and south from glacial refugia
Authors: Korábek Ondřej , Adamcová Tereza , Proćków Małgorzata , Petrusek Adam , Hausdorf Bernhard , Juřičková Lucie
Published: November 2022

Aim

Were postglacial recolonizations facilitated by persistence close to the colonized areas rather than by dispersal ability allowing for colonization from distant sources? This question is particularly relevant for organisms with low active dispersal abilities and lacking specialized propagules. Here we identified glacial refugia of four Central European land snail species, including one for which a northern glacial refugium in the region was indicated by indirectly dated fossils.

Location

Central Europe and the Balkans.

Taxon

Pulmonate land snails: Monachoides incarnatus (Hygromiidae) and Helix pomatia, Helix thessalica and Caucasotachea vindobonensis (Helicidae).

Methods

We used continuous phylogeographic analysis of mitochondrial sequence data to trace the origin of postglacially expanding lineages. We assessed the credibility of results from our focal species, M. incarnatus, by comparison to three other broadly sympatric land snail species. In addition, we performed direct radiocarbon dating of fossil shells to verify the presumed glacial presence of M. incarnatus on the territories of Czechia and Slovakia and to test the reliability of the available fossil data.

Results

In three of the four species, the molecular data supported refugia located south of the Pannonian Basin, from the south‐eastern Alps to the south‐western Carpathians, but not more northerly. The direct radiocarbon dating resulted in younger dates than previously assumed. However, the molecular data also revealed unexpected, yet substantial postglacial southward expansions of M. incarnatus and C. vindobonensis into the Balkans.

Main Conclusions

Neither the phylogeographic analyses nor the direct radiocarbon dating provided evidence for the glacial survival of studied land snail species in Central Europe. The refugia located adjacent to the Pannonian Basin were the most important source of postglacial expansions to Central Europe, but were also the source of the expansion southwards. Both climatic factors and biological interactions might explain why such southward expansions seem rather rare in Europe.
Bioactive compounds extraction from oak chips into rice spirit: New application of ultrasound
Authors: Gavahian Mohsen , Ratchaneesiripap Paphawarin , Lin Yan‐Jin
Published: November 2022

This research proposed using power ultrasound to produce a phenolic‐rich rice spirit from oak chips. Independent parameters were ultrasound power (0, 275, and 550 W), oak–spirit ratio (1.00:1.25, 1.00:2.50, and 1.00:5.00), and time (1 h to 14 days). Dependent factors were color parameters (L*, a*, b*, C*, and ΔE), pH, alcohol content, total acidity (TA), total phenolic content (TPC), 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) value, total energy consumption, and specific energy consumption (SEC). Furthermore, oak chips were analyzed using a scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to elaborate on the extraction mechanism. Results showed that ultrasound enhanced ΔE, C*, TPC, and DPPH. TA ranged between 0.008% and 0.014% and was not affected by sonication. Alcohol content and pH decreased by increasing the sonication time. Also, increasing ultrasound power and time, as well as the oak–spirit ratio, enhanced the phenolic content. The greatest TPC was 138.95 ± 2.21 mg gallic acid equivalent per L which was achieved at 550 W/136 min/oak–spirit ratio of 1.0:2.5. Besides, ultrasound saved more than 99% of processing time. Moreover, decreasing the oak–spirit ratio and increasing input power increased the SEC. SEM revealed that the sonication power significantly affected the surface of oak chips, and 550 W treatment caused the highest damage to the oaks, converting the surface from smooth to cracked porous. This study provided a scalable platform for an innovative product enriched with antioxidants and phenolic compounds.

Practical Application

Ultrasound treatment yielded a potentially health‐promoting rice spirit from oak chips, and essential information regarding the effects of processing parameters on product quality parameters and energy consumption was revealed. For example, it was found that alcohol content and pH values decreased by increasing sonication time. On the other hand, increasing sonication power, time, and the oak–spirit ratio increased phenolics. Sonication saved more than 99% of processing time and altered the oak surface. Besides, specific energy consumption increased by decreasing oak–spirit ratios and increasing input power. This study was performed in collaboration with a winery in Taiwan, and the technology was transferred and implemented in the industry.
Preparation and characterization of chitosan/halloysite nanotubes composite film with ethylene scavenging and gas resistance for active food packaging
Authors: Wang Kun , Wu Linhuanyi , Li Yongshi , Li Hui
Published: November 2022

In this study, the halloysite nanotubes (HNT) were incorporated into chitosan (CS) to prepare CS/HNT composite film by solution‐casting method. Different HNT contents were studied in relation to the morphological, optical, mechanical, barrier and thermal properties of CS/HNT composite films. After incorporation of HNT, the CS/HNT composite films showed improvement in UV light shielding, barrier against water vapor and oxygen, mechanical strength and thermal stability as well as achievement of ethylene scavenging property. Especially, when 5 wt% HNT were added, more homogenous distribution of HNT in CS matrix was observed by SEM, resulting in 169.9% increase in tensile strength, 52.94% decline in oxygen permeability and 4.07 times enhancement in the ethylene scavenging capacity at 100 kPa pressure compared with pure CS film. Moreover, the obtained film with 5 wt% HNT effectively maintained the freshness of bananas and cherry tomatoes under ambient conditions. This study demonstrated that the CS/HNT composite films could be used as active food packaging material to extend the shelf‐life of fresh fruits and vegetables.
A deep learning approach for construction vehicles fill factor estimation and bucket detection in extreme environments
Authors: Guan Wei , Chen Zeren , Wang Shuai , Wang Guoqiang , Guo Jianbo , Liu Zhengbin
Published: November 2022

The development of autonomous detection technology is imperative in the field of construction. The bucket fill factor is one of the main indicators for evaluating the productivity of construction vehicles. Bucket detection is a prerequisite for bucket trajectory planning. However, previous studies have been conducted under ideal environments, a specific single environment, and several normal environments without considering the actual harsh environments at construction sites. Therefore, seven extreme environments are set in this paper to fill this gap, and an effective method is proposed. First, a novel framework for image restoration under extreme environments is proposed. It applies to all tasks conducted by vision on construction sites. Second, a combination of segmentation and classification networks is used for the first time in this area. Multitask learning is used to discover a positive correlation between fill factor estimation and bucket detection. Furthermore, probabilistic methods and transfer learning were introduced, and excellent results were achieved (97.40% accuracy in fill factor estimation and 99.76% accuracy in bucket detection for seven extreme environments).
Nurses' perceptions and use of near infrared spectroscopy in paediatric cardiac intensive care
Authors: Pieciak Karyn , McGowan Kendal , Grade Lori , Morrill Diana , DiPasquale Zachary , Casto Elizabeth , Connor Jean A. , Lisanti Amy J.
Published: November 2022

Background

Near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) is a non‐invasive technology that estimates regional oxygen saturation. Literature demonstrates that NIRS can provide valuable data for clinical staff. However, little research has addressed the nursing care and management of NIRS in the critical care environment.

Aims

To assess nurses' perception around the use of NIRS and current NIRS practice within paediatric cardiac intensive care unit (PCICUs).

Study Design

A 53‐item cross‐sectional electronic survey was developed to assess indications for NIRS, critical value thresholds and interventions, barriers to use, policies and procedures, and nursing perceptions. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize and aggregate data.

Results

Among the 28 responding sites (63.6% response rate), usage of NIRS was variable and patient‐dependent. Most nurses reported using NIRS in patients with unstable physiology such as post‐operative single ventricle (n = 25, 89.3%) and concern for shock (n = 21, 75.0%). Critically low cerebral values varied among respondents from less than 40 (n = 3, 10.7%) to less than 60 (n = 4, 14.3%), with lower critical values permitted for single ventricle physiology: less than 40 (n = 8, 28.6%) to less than 50 (n = 6, 21.4%). Reported barriers to using NIRS included skin breakdown (n = 9, 32.1%), lack of consistency in decision‐making among physicians (n = 13, 46.4%), and not using NIRS data when developing a plan of care (n = 11, 39.3%). Most (n = 24, 85.7%) nurses reported that NIRS provided valuable information and was perceived to be beneficial for patients.

Conclusions

NIRS monitoring is a common technology in the care of complex congenital heart disease patients. Most nurses valued this technology, but inconsistencies and practicalities around its use in guiding patient management were found to be problematic.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

NIRS is commonly used in the PCICU and although nurses perceived NIRS to be useful for their practice, the variability in the interpretation of values and inconsistent protocols and decision‐making by physicians was challenging.