bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultrasound‐assisted ocular drug delivery: A review of current evidence
Authors: Yang Christopher D. , Jessen Jordan , Lin Ken Y.
Published: April 2022

Efficient ocular drug delivery is a challenging clinical problem with various therapeutic options but no clearly preferred methodology. Given the ubiquity of ultrasound as a diagnostic technique, the safety profile of ultrasound in an ocular context, and the prospect of custom‐made ultrasound‐sensitive contrast agents, ultrasound presents an attractive ocular drug delivery modality. In this review, we evaluate our present understanding of ultrasound as it relates to ocular drug delivery and significant knowledge gaps in the field. In doing so, we hope to call attention to a potentially novel drug delivery pathway that could be manipulated to treat or cure ocular diseases.
The effect of biogas ebullition on ammonia emissions from animal manure–processing lagoons
Authors: Weaver Kim H. , Harper Lowry A. , De Visscher Alex , van Cleemput Oswald
Published: April 2022

Various models have been developed to determine ammonia (NH3) emissions from animal manure–processing lagoons to enable relatively simple estimations of emissions. These models allow estimation of actual emissions without intensive field measurements or “one‐size‐fits‐all” emission factors. Two mechanisms for lagoon NH3 emissions exist: (a) diffusive gas exchange from the water surface and (b) mass‐flow (bubble transport) from NH3 contained within the ebullition gas bubble (as it rises to the surface) produced from anaerobic decomposition of organic matter. The purpose of this research is to determine whether gas ebullition appreciably affects NH3 emissions and therefore should be considered in emissions models. Specifically, NH3 mass‐flow emissions were calculated and compared with calculated diffusive NH3 emissions. Mass‐flow NH3 emissions were evaluated based on a two‐film model, in connection with the acid dissociation constant of ammonium, to predict the degree of NH3 gas saturation within the bubbles. Average daily ammoniacal nitrogen concentration, pH, and measured biological gas production (ebullition) in conjunction with literature values for Henry's law constant were used to calculate emissions from NH3 saturation of ebullition gases. Ebullition enhancement of NH3 surface emissions due to increased turbulence was estimated from average lagoon ebullition rates and literature values of turbulence enhancement. Ebullition enhancement of NH3 surface emissions and ebullition mass‐flow NH3 emissions was determined to be <10% and <0.052%, respectively, of total NH3 emissions. Therefore, because ebullition effects are small, they may be neglected when developing process models to estimate NH3 emissions from water surfaces of swine manure processing lagoons.
Two years after lockdown: reviewing the effects of COVID‐19 on health services and support for adolescents living with HIV in South Africa
Authors: van Staden Quintin , Laurenzi Christina A. , Toska Elona
Published: April 2022

Introduction

South Africa's progress towards the 95‐95‐95 goals has been significantly slower among adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV), among whom antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence, retention in care and viral suppression remain a concern. After 2 years of living with COVID‐19, it is important to examine the direct and indirect effects of the pandemic on healthcare resources, access to HIV services and availability of support structures, to assess their impact on HIV care for ALHIV.

Discussion

The COVID‐19 response in South Africa has shifted healthcare resources towards combatting COVID‐19, affecting the quality and availability of HIV services—especially for vulnerable populations, such as ALHIV. The healthcare system's response to COVID‐19 has threatened to diminish fragile gains in engaging ALHIV with HIV services, especially as this group relies on overburdened public health facilities for their HIV care. Reallocation of limited health resources utilized by ALHIV disrupted healthcare workers’ capacity to form and maintain therapeutic relationships with ALHIV and monitor ALHIV for ART‐related side effects, treatment difficulties and mental health conditions, affecting their ability to retain ALHIV in HIV care. Prevailing declines in HIV surveillance meant missed opportunities to identify and manage opportunistic infections and HIV disease progression in adolescents. “Lockdown” restrictions have limited access to healthcare facilities and healthcare workers for ALHIV by reducing clinic appointments and limiting individual movement. ALHIV have had restricted access to social, psychological and educational support structures, including national feeding schemes. This limited access, coupled with reduced opportunities for routine maternal and sexual and reproductive health services, may place adolescent girls at greater risk of transactional sex, child marriages, unintended pregnancy and mother‐to‐child HIV transmission.

Conclusions

Adolescent HIV care in South Africa is often overlooked; however, ART adherence among ALHIV in South Africa is particularly susceptible to the consequences of a world transformed by COVID‐19. The current structures in place to support HIV testing, ART initiation and adherence have been reshaped by disruptions to health structures, new barriers to access health services and the limited available education and psychosocial support systems. Reflecting on these limitations can drive considerations for minimizing these barriers and retaining ALHIV in HIV care.
Evaluation of a bivalent recombinant vaccine candidate targeting norovirus and rotavirus: Antibodies to rotavirus NSP4 exert antidiarrheal effects without virus neutralization
Authors: Cao Han , Wu Jinyuan , Luan Ning , Wang Yunfei , Lin Kangyang , Liu Cunbao
Published: April 2022

We previously found that when tandemly expressed with SR69A‐VP8*, nonstructural protein 4 (NSP4) of the rotavirus Wa strain exerts a minor effect on elevating the antibody responses targeting the rotavirus antigen VP8* of the 60‐valent nanoparticle SR69A‐VP8* but could fully protect mice from diarrhea induced by the rotavirus strain Wa. In this study, we chose comparably less immunogenic norovirus 24‐valent P particles with homogenous (i.e., VP8* from rotavirus) and heterogeneous (i.e., protruding domain of norovirus) antigens and in more challenging rotavirus SA11 strain‐induced diarrhea mouse models to evaluate its main role in recombinant gastroenteritis virus‐specific vaccines. The results showed that although as an adjuvant NSP4 exerted limited effects on the elevation of norovirus‐specific or VP8*‐specific neutralizing antibody production, as an antigen it could confer potent protection, particularly when synergized with VP8*, in rotavirus SA11 strain‐induced diarrhea mouse models, possibly blocking the invasion of the intestinal wall by enterotoxin. NSP4 may be unnecessary for other recombinant vaccines as adjuvants, and its display mode should be evaluated specifically to avoid blocking coexpressed antigens in the norovirus P particles.
Evaluation of a new “all in one” SARS‐CoV‐2 antigen‐detecting rapid diagnostic test and self‐test: Diagnostic performance and usability in child and adult populations
Authors: Prazuck Thierry , Gravier Anne , Pires‐Roteira Daniela , Theillay Aurelie , Pallay Sandra , Colin Mathilda , Serreau Raphael , Hocqueloux Laurent , Cassuto Nino Guy
Published: April 2022

The control of the COVID‐19 epidemics has been one global health priorities for the last 2 years. To that end, more reliable and easy‐to‐use, regardless of age, diagnostic tests are necessary. Considering that, we evaluated an innovative two‐step self‐test, the AAZ COVID‐VIRO ALL IN®, switching from the classic nasal swab to a nasal sponge. We performed a multicenter study, on 124 adults and children, in a point‐of‐care setting. Sensitivity, specificity and overall acceptance of the COVID‐VIRO ALL IN® self‐test compared to reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) on nasopharyngeal samples were of 93.0%, 100%, and 97.5%, respectively. We then performed a multicenter, usability study to evaluate the ease of use of COVID‐VIRO ALL IN® on 68 laypersons adults. A vast majority of participants correctly executed and interpreted the test. The usability was then specifically investigated on 40 children and teenagers, comparing COVID‐VIRO® first generation to the new COVID‐VIRO ALL IN®. They all found COVID‐VIRO ALL IN® more comfortable and easier to use. For young children, the new self‐test seems safer (less risk of trauma and no liquid exposure), and faster than saliva‐based RT‐PCR. Moreover, the COVID‐VIRO ALL IN® can easily be adapted as a multiplex self‐test for other respiratory viruses, opening new perspectives of simultaneous, rapid and massive detection of respiratory infections, especially among vulnerable populations like children and elderly people.
Coinfection of leptospirosis and coronavirus disease 2019: A retrospective case series from a coastal region in South India
Authors: Gupta Nitin , Wilson William , Ravindra Prithvishree , Raghu Roshini , Saravu Kavitha
Published: April 2022

During the monsoon season of 2020, the coastal areas of South India were endemic to both leptospirosis and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19). This study aimed to investigate the clinical features and outcomes of patients infected with both infections. A retrospective review of charts of all patients with COVID‐19 who were also diagnosed with leptospirosis by immunoglobulin M enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay was undertaken. The clinical features, laboratory report, treatment details, and outcomes of all the included patients were recorded. The collected data were summarized as the frequency with percentage for categorical data and the mean or median for continuous data. Twenty‐four cases of coinfections were admitted between July and November 2020. Most of these patients were categorized as severe COVID‐19 (n = 15, 62.5%). Acute kidney injury was seen in 79.2% (n = 19) patients, while raised bilirubin was present in 79.2% (n = 19) of the patients. All patients had raised C‐reactive protein, while all but one had raised procalcitonin. Thrombocytopenia, leucocytosis, and leukocytopenia were seen in 91.7% (n = 22), 45.8% (n = 11), and 12.5% (n = 3) of the patients. The median duration of hospital stay was 11 (8.25–15) days. A total of 79.2% (n = 19) of the patients improved and were discharged, while 20.8% (n = 5) died during the hospital stay. In conclusion, patients with fever and atypical manifestations such as hepatic dysfunction, renal dysfunction, and thrombocytopenia should be evaluated for leptospirosis even if they are COVID positive.
Birds as indicators of early Holocene biodiversity and the seasonal nature of human activity at WF16, an early Neolithic site in Faynan, Southern Jordan
Authors: Mithen Steven , White Judith , Finlayson Bill , Greet Ben , Khoury Fares
Published: April 2022

Birds are useful indicators of biodiversity. Their bones have been used for reconstructing the local environments and seasonality of human activity at Epipalaeolithic and early Neolithic sites in south‐west Asia. We consider the bird bones from WF16, an early Neolithic settlement in southern Jordan, currently located in an arid environment. The settlement has elaborate pisé‐built architecture and material culture. The species represented in the WF16 avian assemblage suggest the environment was considerably wetter and more wooded than today, supporting the idea that early Holocene communities targeted locations with abundant and diverse resources. However, while the range of species at WF16 is equivalent to that found at other Epipalaeolithic and early Neolithic sites in the region, the diversity of the assemblage is strikingly limited, with a heavy dominance of raptors, notably buzzards. We suggest an annual pattern of seasonally based activities, with a relatively small resident population drawing on supplies of water during the winter months for constructing and maintaining site architecture and spring/autumn gatherings of people from across the region to hunt migratory raptors and undertake performance and ceremony at the settlement.
Utilizing low oxygen to mitigate resistance of stored product insects to phosphine
Authors: Agrafioti Paraskevi , Kaloudis Efstathios , Athanassiou Christos G
Published: April 2022

BACKGROUND

Data are provided on the utilization of modified atmospheres, at a commercial scale, against stored product insect populations that are resistant to phosphine. The method is evaluated on different populations of two major stored‐product beetle species, Rhyzopertha dominica and Oryzaephilus surinamensis. The trials were carried out in commercial facilities, in which nitrogen was introduced through an embedded nitrogen generator. Each chamber contained three or four pallets of either currants or herbs. A computational model was developed to evaluate the nitrogen concentration.

RESULTS

In most trials, 100% mortality was recorded for both beetle species and all populations, regardless of the temperature and exposure intervals tested. Control progeny production ranged between 20 and 45 adults per vial for R. dominica, and 29 and 27 adults per vial for O. surinamensis. Simulation results reveal that nitrogen can easily penetrate the currants, and its concentration is uniform (differences are below 1.5%) across the pallet. Additionally, the simulation model revealed that lower temperatures do not have an impact on the nitrogen concentration profiles.

CONCLUSIONS

The modified atmosphere applications evaluated here were proved to be effective for all populations, regardless of the level of resistance to phosphine, and any survival could be attributed to the short exposure intervals. Modified atmosphere applications can be effective at a considerably short exposure interval, even at 2.5 days, which is an incontestable advantage for the use of this method against insects, at exposures comparable with those of commercial fumigations. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Realization of ultra‐high‐efficient fluorescent blue OLED
Authors: Tasaki Satomi , Nishimura Kazuki , Toyoshima Hiroaki , Masuda Tetsuya , Nakamura Masato , Nakano Yuki , Itoi Hiroaki , Kambe Emiko , Kawamura Yuichiro , Kuma Hitoshi
Published: April 2022

The bilayer structure for an emitting layer (EML) was developed to improve performances of a fluorescence blue organic light emitting diode. By functionally separating the EML into the charge recombination and the triplet–triplet fusion (TTF) zone, we successfully suppressed the quenching of triplet excitons by excess carriers to make more TTF efficient and the local degradation within the EML to make the lifetime longer. In the bottom emission device with the bilayer EML, 12% of external quantum efficiency (EQE) and 450 h of LT95 were achieved. Furthermore, we achieved over 14% of EQE by optimizing the material combinations.
Derivation of computational formulas for certain class of finite sums: Approach to generating functions arising from p$$ p $$‐adic integrals and special functions
Authors: Simsek Yilmaz
Published: April 2022

The aim of this paper is to construct generating functions for certain families of special finite sums by using the Newton–Mercator series, hypergeometric functions, and
‐adic integral. By using these generating functions with their functional and partial derivative equations, many novel computational formulas involving the special finite sums of (inverse) binomial coefficients, the Bernoulli type polynomials and numbers, Euler polynomials and numbers, the Stirling numbers, the (alternating) harmonic numbers, the Leibnitz polynomials, and others are derived. We also develop a computation algorithm for these finite sums and provide some of their special values. By using these finite sums and combinatorial numbers, we find some formulas involving multiple alternating zeta functions, the Bernoulli polynomials of higher order and the Euler polynomials of higher order. We then obtain a decomposition from these formulas, which are related to the multiple Hurwitz zeta functions.
Determination of dominant recombination site in perovskite solar cells through illumination‐side‐dependent impedance spectroscopy
Authors: Omer Mohamed I. , Wang Xizu , Tang Xiaohong
Published: April 2022

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have attracted wide attention due to their capacity to achieve high‐power conversion efficiencies. However, the high trap‐assisted recombination taking place in the active layer leads to performance loss in PSCs. In particular, the excessive recombination at the interface between the perovskite active layer and the carrier selective contacts can be especially problematic. Therefore, the identification of the dominant recombination pathways in a given PSC architecture is of significant importance for the mitigation of losses and enhancement of device performance. Here, we introduce an approach for identifying the dominant recombination pathways in PSCs by applying illumination‐side‐dependent impedance spectroscopy (ISD‐IS) measurements on the devices with a semi‐transparent top electrode. We validate this technique using coupled ionic‐electronic numerical simulations and apply it experimentally on a standard PSC structure. Overall, this approach could be of significant importance for pinpointing the performance bottlenecks in PSC devices under operationally relevant conditions and providing a more detailed picture of the losses in a complete PSC device by examining its behaviors under illumination from both sides at different operation conditions, which could allow for a more targeted optimization strategy of PSCs to improve their performance.
Diversity of mechanisms to control bacterial GTP homeostasis by the mutually exclusive binding of adenine and guanine nucleotides to IMP dehydrogenase
Authors: Fernández‐Justel David , Marcos‐Alcalde Íñigo , Abascal Federico , Vidaña Nerea , Gómez‐Puertas Paulino , Jiménez Alberto , Revuelta José L. , Buey Rubén M.
Published: April 2022

IMP dehydrogenase(IMPDH) is an essential enzyme that catalyzes the rate‐limiting step in the guanine nucleotide pathway. In eukaryotic cells, GTP binding to the regulatory domain allosterically controls the activity of IMPDH by a mechanism that is fine‐tuned by post‐translational modifications and enzyme polymerization. Nonetheless, the mechanisms of regulation of IMPDH in bacterial cells remain unclear. Using biochemical, structural, and evolutionary analyses, we demonstrate that, in most bacterial phyla, (p)ppGpp compete with ATP to allosterically modulate IMPDH activity by binding to a, previously unrecognized, conserved high affinity pocket within the regulatory domain. This pocket was lost during the evolution of Proteobacteria, making their IMPDHs insensitive to these alarmones. Instead, most proteobacterial IMPDHs evolved to be directly modulated by the balance between ATP and GTP that compete for the same allosteric binding site. Altogether, we demonstrate that the activity of bacterial IMPDHs is allosterically modulated by a universally conserved nucleotide‐controlled conformational switch that has divergently evolved to adapt to the specific particularities of each organism. These results reconcile the reported data on the crosstalk between (p)ppGpp signaling and the guanine nucleotide biosynthetic pathway and reinforce the essential role of IMPDH allosteric regulation on bacterial GTP homeostasis.
Free‐Energy Parameterization and Thermodynamics in Si–Ge–Sn Alloys
Authors: Windl Wolfgang , Chien Szu-Chia
Published: April 2022

Different models are used to describe and parameterize enthalpy and free energy in GeSnSi alloys over the entire composition range from density‐functional theory calculations and are used to explore if concentrated alloys in the equiatomic concentration range are thermodynamically feasible. It is found that the energetics are very well behaved and follow the expressions of a ternary regular solution rather closely. While a small asymmetry is found in the ideal solution energetics for the three binaries, it is found that the assumption of a symmetric ideal solution as underlying the quasichemical model does not change the general findings. All free energy contributions within this work are parameterized in different approximations, providing a complete parameter set that can be used for further thermodynamic studies of the GeSnSi alloy system. In the obtained results, the enthalpy of mixing of the SiSn system has rather large values, which is maintained more or less unchanged in the ternary system, making a concentrated ternary alloy thermodynamically unfavorable. Calculating the full free energy from adding configurational and vibrational entropy contributions does not change the overall situation.
An introductory review of robotically assisted surgical systems
Authors: Cepolina Francesco , Razzoli Roberto P.
Published: April 2022

Purpose

The scope of the work is to present the state of the art of robotically assisted surgical systems and to give a general idea about how technology can help today and tomorrow robotic surgery. The road to innovation passes through research and on field trials; for this reason, not only commercial surgery robots, but also innovative prototype robots, proposed by the Academic world, are presented.

Design/methodology/approach

Following a short introduction, robotically assisted surgery systems are introduced discussing their architectures and main peculiarities. A further section is dedicated to the key enabling technologies that will make possible to improve current systems and that will lead to a new generation of surgical robotic systems able to meet the patient's needs and facilitate the surgeon's task. Finally, brief concluding comments are given.

Findings

The idea of using robots for surgery was born many years ago and in a short time a market demand was created. Today the market is very dynamic, and several new products are updated and created for the execution of both traditional and new procedures. The article provides a guide for the reader who has an interest in this area.

Originality/value

This paper provides an insight into the commercial robotic surgical systems and a look on research prototypes from academic and industrial worlds.
Implications of crop residue removal on soil physical properties: A review
Authors: Klopp Hans W. , Blanco‐Canqui Humberto
Published: April 2022

Crop residues are often removed for livestock and biofuel production, but how such removal impacts soil physical properties has not been widely discussed. The objectives of this paper were to discuss: (a) the impacts of crop residue removal on soil physical properties, (b) factors affecting residue removal effects on soils, (c) threshold level of residue removal, (d) strategies to offset the removal negative effects, and (e) research needs. We compiled 66 studies on crop residue removal and soil physical properties published prior to 17 Aug. 2021. Residue removal may not affect bulk density and water infiltration rate but increases penetration resistance by 55% and soil temperature by 1.8 °C in spring. However, it reduces wet aggregate stability by 31%, dry aggregate stability by 44%, and water retention at –33 kPa by 24% in most studies, indicating residue removal can increase erosion risks and reduce soil water storage. Residue removal rate is the leading factor that explains changes in soil physical properties. Residue removal at rates above 50%, in general, adversely affected soil physical properties, which correlates to retaining about 4 Mg ha–1 of residue. Cover crops and manure application may partially offset adverse effects of residue removal on soil physical properties, but studies are too few to make a strong conclusion. Consistency of soil sampling depths, accurate reporting of residue removal rates, and additional data from long‐term experiments are needed. Overall, high rates of residue removal can increase erosion potential and reduce soil water but have mixed impacts on other physical properties.
Narratives and Negotiations of Identity in Japan and Criticality in (English) Language Education: (Dis)Connections and Implications
Authors: Rudolph Nathanael
Published: April 2022

Inspired by the call to question (critical) assumptions underpinning frameworks for “seeing” (Lather, 1993) and ground criticality in alternative forms of knowing (Pennycook, 2018), this paper examines critical frameworks for approaching identity, experience, and (in)equity in “English” language teaching (ELT), with a focus on critical attention to Japan. Transdisciplinary scholarship, social movements, and other voices have detailed how the narrative of “homogeneous Japan” has given shape to notions of Selfhood‐Otherness, resulting in the erasing of Japan's history as a site of movement, change, diversity and hybridity, and marginalization of many therein. The author notes that the scope of dominant, critical approaches to identity, experience, and (in)equity in Japan and globalized ELT ‐problematizing essentialized and idealized “nativeness” in English—does not afford conceptual space for attention to how the negotiation of being, belonging and becoming in ELT is situated in broader negotiations of identity and community membership. The author contends that this issue is linked to tensions within criticality pertaining to the imposition of essentializing frameworks for seeing upon individuals and communities around the globe. The author then discusses potential broader implications for theorization, inquiry, and practice in ELT in and beyond Japan.
The effect of low molecular weight‐polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons responsive hsa_circ_0039929/hsa‐miR‐15b‐3p_R‐1/FGF2 circuit on inflammatory response of A549 cells via the PI3K/AKT pathway and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition process
Authors: Huang Yushan , Huang Yamin , Wang Huiling , Zhang Haojun , Shi Lei , Li Chengyun , Li Xiangli , Zeng Yong , Liu Yang , Wu Minghua , Wang Jingyu , Wang Junling
Published: April 2022

Inflammation is widely recognized as an essential inducer of epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT). Meanwhile, competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) has been involved in a variety of disease processes. Therefore, the aim of the current study is to explore the regulation of ceRNA in the PI3K/AKT pathway and EMT mechanism in inflammatory response caused by low molecular weight‐polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (LMW‐PAHs). The A549 cells were treated with an equal mixture of phenanthrene (Phe) and fluorene (Flu), and total RNA was extracted for transcriptome sequencing. The target regulation of ceRNA hsa_circ_0039929/hsa‐miR‐15b‐3p_R‐1/FGF2 was further determined for mechanism study. The mixture of Phe and Flu significantly upregulated the expressions of hsa_circ_0039929 and FGF2, down‐regulated hsa‐miR‐15b‐3p_R‐1, activated the PI3K/AKT pathway and promoted EMT. Mechanically, the overexpression of hsa‐miR‐15b‐3p_R‐1 inhibited the expressions of hsa_circ_0039929 and FGF2, reversed the activation of PI3K/AKT signaling pathway by LMW‐PAHs, and blocked the occurrence of EMT progression. Furthermore, knockdown of hsa_circ_0039929 could promote the levels of hsa‐miR‐15b‐3p_R‐1, while inhibit the expression of FGF2. The effects of hsa_circ_0039929 knockdowns on PI3K/AKT pathways and EMT progress resembled the hsa‐miR‐15b‐3p_R‐1 overexpression. All above suggested that ceRNA hsa_circ_0039929/hsa‐miR‐15b‐3p_R‐1/FGF2 played an important role in the inflammation and EMT caused by LMW‐PAHs.
Cytologic detection of Simonsiella‐like bacteria suggesting oral contamination in cases of canine ulcerative keratitis
Authors: Li Puma Margaret C. , Diehl Kathryn A. , Myrna Kathern E.
Published: April 2022

Simonsiella is a known oral commensal organism and has been identified as a part of the normal ocular microbiota in humans. This case series highlights three cases of canine ulcerative keratitis in which a mixed bacterial infection, including high numbers of Simonsiella spp. had been identified cytologically. All cases had episodes of oral contamination, either from licking the eye, licking the paws and rubbing the eye, or housemate(s) licking the eye. In two of three cases, ulcer resolution was observed within 3 weeks following initiation of broad‐spectrum topical antimicrobial therapy.
Documentation and Legalization Arenas in Moscow and Istanbul
Authors: Urinboyev Rustamjon , Eraliev Sherzod
Published: April 2022

During our ethnographic fieldwork in Istanbul—in the Kumkapi neighborhood where the majority of Uzbek migrant workers reside and work—we encountered many Uzbek migrants who were compelled to reroute their migration destination from Russia to Turkey following the introduction of the entry ban legislation in Russia in 2013 and 2014. Since that ban, Turkey has become a popular destination since Uzbeks can travel visa-free and can work and reside there without any immigration documents.
Informality and Migrant Agency in Non-Western Migration Regimes
Authors: Urinboyev Rustamjon , Eraliev Sherzod
Published: April 2022

On January 14, 2022, we attended a dinner with Safar (the Uzbek migrant presented in Chapter 10.1007/978-3-030-99256-9_1 of this book) at O’zbegim restaurant in Kumkapi in Istanbul, Turkey.
Einleitung
Authors: Logeswaran Araththy
Published: April 2022

Eine junge Frau und ein junger Mann stehen in der Warteschlange an der Kasse einer bekannten Supermarktkette in Deutschland. Die junge Frau weist trotz ihrer Geburt in Deutschland eine Migrationsgeschichte auf, denn ihre Eltern kamen vor etwa 25 Jahren als Geflüchtete nach Deutschland. Der junge Mann dahingegen hat eine Migrationserfahrung und kam vor drei Jahren als Arbeitsmigrant in die Bundesrepublik.
Search for exotic leptons in final states with two or three leptons and fat-jets at 13 TeV LHC
Authors: Ashanujjaman Saiyad , Choudhury Debajyoti , Ghosh Kirtiman
Published: April 2022

Abstract

Exotic leptons in large gauge multiplets, appearing in many scenarios beyond the Standard Model (SM), can be produced at the LHC in pairs or association. Owing to their large masses, their eventual decay products — SM leptons and bosons — tend to be highly boosted, with the jets stemming from the SM bosons more likely to manifest themselves as a single fat-jet rather than two resolved ones. With the corresponding SM backgrounds being suppressed, final states with two or three leptons and one or two fat-jets are expected to be sensitive in probing exotic fermions much heavier than 1 TeV, and we propose and investigate an appropriate search strategy. To concentrate on the essential, we consider extensions of the SM by leptonic multiplets of a single kind (triplets, quadruplets or quintuplets), bearing in mind that such simplified models typically arise as low-energy limits of more ambitious scenarios addressing various lacunae of the SM. Performing a systematic and comprehensive study of nine such scenarios at the 13 TeV LHC, we find that the corresponding 5σ discovery reaches a range from 985 GeV to 1650 GeV (1345 GeV to 2020 GeV) for 300 (3000) fb−1.
Surprises in Lorentzian path-integral of Gauss-Bonnet gravity
Authors: Narain Gaurav
Published: April 2022

Abstract

In this paper we study the Lorentzian path-integral of Gauss-Bonnet gravity in the mini-superspace approximation in four spacetime dimensions and investigate the transition amplitude from one configuration to another. Past studies motivate us on imposing Neumann boundary conditions on initial boundary as they lead to stable behaviour of fluctuations. The transition amplitude is computed exactly while incorporating the non-trivial contribution coming from the Gauss-Bonnet sector of gravity. A saddle-point analysis involving usage of Picard-Lefschetz methods allow us to gain further insight of the nature of transition amplitude. Small-size Universe is Euclidean in nature which is shown by the exponentially rising wave-function. It reaches a peak after which the wave-function becomes oscillatory indicating an emergence of time and a Lorentzian phase of the Universe. We also notice an interesting hypothetical situation when the wave-function of Universe becomes independent of the initial conditions completely, which happens when cosmological constant and Gauss-Bonnet coupling have a particular relation. This however doesn’t imply that the initial momentum is left arbitrary as it needs to be fixed to a particular value which is chosen by demanding regularity of Universe at an initial time and the stability of fluctuations.
CEMIP (KIAA1199) regulates inflammation, hyperplasia and fibrosis in osteoarthritis synovial membrane
Authors: Deroyer Céline , Poulet Christophe , Paulissen Geneviève , Ciregia Federica , Malaise Olivier , Plener Zelda , Cobraiville Gaël , Daniel Christophe , Gillet Philippe , Malaise Michel G. , de Seny Dominique
Published: April 2022

Osteoarthritis (OA) synovial membrane is mainly characterized by low-grade inflammation, hyperplasia with increased cell proliferation and fibrosis. We previously underscored a critical role for CEMIP in fibrosis of OA cartilage. However, its role in OA synovial membrane remains unknown. An in vitro model with fibroblast-like synoviocytes from OA patients and an in vivo model with collagenase-induced OA mice were used to evaluate CEMIP-silencing effects on inflammation, hyperplasia and fibrosis. Our results showed that i. CEMIP expression was increased in human and mouse inflamed synovial membrane; ii. CEMIP regulated the inflammatory response pathway and inflammatory cytokines production in vitro and in vivo; iii. CEMIP induced epithelial to mesenchymal transition pathway and fibrotic markers in vitro and in vivo; iv. CEMIP increased cell proliferation and synovial hyperplasia; v. CEMIP expression was increased by inflammatory cytokines and by TGF-β signaling; vi. anti-fibrotic drugs decreased CEMIP expression. All these findings highlighted the central role of CEMIP in OA synovial membrane development and underscored that targeting CEMIP could be a new therapeutic approach.
Prevalence and correlates of loneliness, perceived and objective social isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic. Evidence from a representative survey in Germany
Authors: Hajek André , König Hans-Helmut
Published: April 2022

Purpose

Our aim was to identify the prevalence and correlates of loneliness, perceived and objective social isolation in the German population during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

Data were taken from a representative survey with n = 3075 individuals (18–70 years; August/September 2021). Valid measures were used to quantify the outcomes (loneliness: De Jong Gierveld scale; perceived social isolation: Bude/Lantermann tool; objective social isolation: Lubben Social Network Scale). Multiple logistic regressions were used to identify the correlates of these three outcomes.

Results

The prevalence of loneliness was 83.4%, the prevalence of perceived social isolation was 59.1% and the prevalence of objective social isolation was 28.9%. The prevalence rate significantly differed between the subgroups (e.g., the prevalence of perceived social isolation was 73.9% among individuals aged 18–29 years, whereas it was 48.8% among individuals aged 60–70 years). In regression analysis, several correlates of these outcomes were identified (e.g., marital status, age group (with changing signs), migration background, sports activities, or self-rated health).

Conclusion

Our study particularly identified very to extraordinarily high prevalence rates for social isolation and loneliness, respectively. Knowledge about the correlates (e.g., age group) may help to address these individuals during the ongoing pandemic.
Comparison and integration of CONT17 networks
Authors: Kwak Younghee , Glomsda Matthias , Angermann Detlef , Gerstl Michael
Published: April 2022

Among the continuous (CONT) campaigns of very long baseline interferometry (VLBI), CONT17 is a special CONT campaign which comprises three independent networks: two legacy networks, and one VGOS network to mainly check possible biases in network geometry. In this study, we estimate all types of geodetic parameters (station and source coordinates, and Earth orientation parameters (EOP)) within the single networks and compare them to investigate potential network dependent biases. Since the separate networks are technically linked to each other by common parameters, i.e. EOP and common radio source coordinates, they can be regarded as a single network on the Earth and integrated in one common adjustment. Thus, we also estimate the station and source coordinates, and the EOP from the integrated networks and compare them with those of the single networks to check the impact on the geodetic parameters. There are both subtle and large biases (up to 7.1 mm between the legacy networks in the Ty component and 23.3 mm between the legacy and VGOS networks in the $$D_3$$

D
3

component on the surface of the Earth) between the single networks depending on parameter types. The integrated network eventually compensates those differences. Adding the VGOS network to the legacy networks does not show any significant improvement for the latter. However, the integration can provide the VGOS network with better parameter estimates which is important for the new stations.
Why hospital-based healthcare professionals do not report adverse drug reactions: a mixed methods study using the Theoretical Domains Framework
Authors: Li Raymond , Curtis Kate , Van Connie , Tabish Razi Zaidi Syed , Yeo Chin Yen , Arun Kali Christina , Zaheen Mithila , Therese Moujalli Grace , Castelino Ronald
Published: April 2022

Purpose

Adverse drug reaction (ADR) underreporting is highly prevalent across the world. This study aimed to identify factors associated with ADR reporting and map these to a behavioural change framework to help inform future interventions designed to improve ADR underreporting.

Methods

A mixed methods survey was distributed to healthcare professionals at a tertiary hospital in Sydney, Australia. Quantitative data was analysed using logistic regression to identify factors that predict ADR reporting. Qualitative data was evaluated using content analysis. These were then integrated and mapped to the 14 domains within the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) to identify target areas relevant for improving ADR reporting.

Results

One hundred thirty-three healthcare professionals completed the survey. Knowing how to report ADRs (OR 4.56, 95%CI 1.95–10.7), having been trained on ADR reporting (OR 2.72, 95%CI 1.29–5.77), and encountering ADRs as part of clinical practice (OR 10.3, 95%CI 3.59–29.4) were significant predictors of reporting an ADR. Content analysis identified three categories: modifying the ADR reporting process, enabling clinicians to report ADRs, and creating a positive ADR reporting culture. After data integration, the three target TDF domains were knowledge, environmental context/resources, and beliefs about consequences.

Conclusion

Future interventions designed to improve ADR reporting should address these target domains to instigate behaviour change in healthcare professionals’ reporting of ADRs.
Role of spt23 in Saccharomyces cerevisiae thermal tolerance
Authors: Lu Zhilong , Wu Yanling , Chen Ying , Chen Xiaoling , Wu Renzhi , Lu Qi , Chen Dong , Huang Ribo
Published: April 2022

spt23 plays multiple roles in the thermal tolerance of budding yeast. spt23 regulates unsaturated lipid acid (ULA) content in the cell, which can then significantly affect cellular thermal tolerance. Being a Ty suppressor, spt23 can also interact with transposons (Tys) that are contributors to yeast’s adaptive evolution. Nevertheless, few studies have investigated whether and how much spt23 can exert its regulatory functions through transposons. In this study, expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) analysis was conducted with thermal-tolerant Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains, and spt23 was identified as one of the most important genes in mutants. spt23-overexpression (OE), deletion (Del), and integrative-expressed (IE) strains were constructed. Their heat tolerance, ethanol production, the expression level of key genes, and lipid acid contents in the cell membranes were measured. Furthermore, LTR (long terminal repeat)-amplicon sequencing was used to profile yeast transposon activities in the treatments. The results showed the Del type had a higher survival rate, biomass, and ethanol production, revealing negative correlations between spt23 expression levels and thermal tolerance. Total unsaturated lipid acid (TULA) contents in cell membranes were lower in the Del type, indicating its negative association with spt23 expression levels. The Del type resulted in the lower richness and higher evenness in LTR distributions, as well as higher transposon activities. The intersection of 3 gene sets and regression analysis revealed the relative weight of spt23’s direct and TY-induced influence is about 4:3. These results suggested a heat tolerance model in which spt23 increases cell thermal tolerance through transcriptional regulation in addition to spt23-transposon triggered unknown responses.

Key points

• spt23 is a key gene for heat tolerance, important for LA contents but not vital.

• Deletion of spt23 decreases in yeast’s LTR richness but not in evenness.

• The relative weight of spt23’s direct and TY-induced influence is about 4:3.
Rare pediatric tumors in Germany – not as rare as expected: a study based on data from the Bavarian Cancer Registry and the German Childhood Cancer Registry
Authors: Achajew Aisana , Brecht Ines B. , Radespiel-Tröger Martin , Meyer Martin , Metzler Markus , Bremensdorfer Claudia , Spix Claudia , Erdmann Friederike , Schneider Dominik T. , Abele Michael
Published: April 2022

Very rare pediatric tumors (VRTs) pose a challenge for treating physicians as little is known about the best diagnostic assessment and therapeutic decision-making in these malignancies. A large proportion of these cancers occur in adolescence. Therefore, the established structures of pediatric oncology including cancer registration may partly be circumvented. This may lead to an underregistration in clinical cancer registries of yet unclear extent. The aim of this study is to increase the knowledge on the occurrence of VRTs in pediatric patients in Germany. Pseudonymized data of cases recorded in the Bavarian Cancer Registry (BCR) between 2002 and 2014 were retrieved. VRTs according to the definition of the European Cooperative Study Group for Pediatric Rare Tumors were identified using the ICD and ICD-O classification. The numbers of registered patients were compared to those reported to the German Childhood Cancer Registry (GCCR). 6.3% (n = 290) of all malignancies (n = 4615) in the age below 18 years were classified as VRTs. Median age at diagnosis was 15 years (range 0–17 years). The most common tumor types included malignant melanoma, skin carcinoma, and gonadal tumors. During the same period, 49 pediatric patients from Bavaria with matchable VRTs were reported to the GCCR, accounting for 17% of cases reported to the BCR.

Conclusions: The frequency of VRTs in Germany is underestimated in the national GCCR. With this study, we present population-based data on the incidence of VRTs in Germany for the first time. In order to gain additional knowledge about these malignancies, registration of VRTs must be improved through enhanced data exchange between the GCCR, the public cancer registries, and the clinical Registry for Rare Pediatric Tumors (STEP).

What is Known:• Rare pediatric tumors pose a challenge for treating physicians as limited knowledge is available on these malignancies for diagnostic and therapeutic decision-making.• Little is known about the frequency of these rare tumors in pediatric patients.

What is New:• The frequency of rare pediatric tumors in Germany is distinctly underestimated in the German Childhood Cancer Registry.• We present population-based data on the incidence of these rare pediatric cancers for the first time.
Allergic airway inflammation induces upregulation of the expression of IL-23R by macrophages and not in CD3 + T cells and CD11c+F4/80− dendritic cells of the lung
Authors: Leitner Maximilian , Heck Sebastian , Nguyen Kenny , Nguyen Phu Quyen , Harfoush Shaza , Rosenkranz Eva , Bals Robert , Dinh Quoc Thai
Published: April 2022

Interleukin 23 and the interleukin 23 receptor (IL-23-IL23R) are described as the major enhancing factors for Interleukin 17 (IL-17) in allergic airway inflammation. IL-17 is considered to induce neutrophilic inflammation in the lung, which is often observed in severe, steroid-resistant asthma-phenotypes. For that reason, understanding of IL-23 and IL-17 axis is very important for future therapy strategies, targeting neutrophil pathway of bronchial asthma.

This study aimed to investigate the distribution and expression of IL-23R under physiological and inflammatory conditions. Therefore, a house dust mite (HDM) model of allergic airway inflammation was performed by treating mice with HDM intranasally. Immunofluorescence staining with panel of antibodies was performed in lung tissues to examine the macrophage, dendritic cell, and T cell subpopulations. The allergic airway inflammation was quantified by histopathological analysis, ELISA measurements, and airway function.

HDM-treated mice exhibited a significant allergic airway inflammation including higher amounts of NE+ cells in lung parenchyma. We found only a small amount of IL-23R positives, out of total CD3+T cells, and no upregulation in HDM-treated animals. In contrast, the populations of F4/80+ macrophages and CD11c+F4/80− dendritic cells (DCs) with IL-23R expression were found to be higher. But HDM treatment leads to a significant increase of IL-23R+ macrophages, only. IL-23R was expressed by every examined macrophage subpopulation, whereas only Mϕ1 and hybrids between Mϕ1 and Mϕ2 phenotype and not Mϕ2 were found to upregulate IL-23R. Co-localization of IL-23R and IL-17 was only observed in F4/80+ macrophages, suggesting F4/80+ macrophages express IL-23R along with IL-17 in lung tissue.

The study revealed that macrophages involving the IL-23 and IL-17 pathway may provide a potential interesting therapeutic target in neutrophilic bronchial asthma.
The changing face of head and neck cancer: are patients with human papillomavirus-positive disease at greater nutritional risk? A systematic review
Authors: Edwards Anna , Brown Teresa , Hughes Brett G. M. , Bauer Judy
Published: April 2022

Purpose

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is now the primary cause of oropharyngeal head and neck cancer (OPC) worldwide; yet limited research has examined the effect of HPV-positive status (OPC+) on nutrition outcomes. This study aims to determine the impact of HPV status on nutritional outcomes for adult patients with OPC undergoing any treatment modality.

Methods

A systematic literature review was conducted up to and including July 2021 of PubMed, Embase, CENTRAL, CINAHL, and Web of Science to identify studies conducted in adults (>18 years) with known OPC reporting on any outcome(s) related to nutrition, according to HPV status (OPC+ versus OPC−). Bias was assessed using QUIPS tool, with certainty of evidence assessed using GRADE system.

Results

Six studies (total n = 635) all at moderate-high risk of bias were included. Three studies reported on weight change (n = 255), three feeding tube dependency (n = 380), three feeding tube timing of placement (prophylactic or reactive) and/or utilisation (n = 255), two nutritional (energy and/or protein) intake (n = 230), and one nutritional status (n = 83). Patients with OPC+ may experience greater weight loss, may have higher utilisation of reactive feeding tubes (both GRADE low certainty, downgraded due to serious bias and imprecision), and may have lower feeding tube dependency rates (GRADE low certainty, downgraded due to serious bias and inconsistency) versus OPC− . It is uncertain whether nutritional intake and nutritional status differed between populations (GRADE very low certainty, downgraded due to serious bias and very serious imprecision).

Conclusion

Further, high-quality research is needed to understand optimal nutritional care practices for patients with OPC + to achieve positive health outcomes into survivorship.