bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Analysis of Government Support Programs for Small Business Development and Growth
Authors: Kumar Satish , Singh Pushpender
Published: October 2023

Small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) are very important for many countries' economic and social growth. They constitute a significant proportion of employment, innovation, and value creation across diverse sectors and regions. But small businesses also have many problems that make it hard for them to grow and be good at what they do. For example, they might not have enough money or the right tools or information to compete. To help small businesses succeed, governments around the world have created programs and policies that give them money, help with their business needs, and help with their organization.

The impact of government support programs on SME development and growth holds significant interest and significance for policymakers, researchers, practitioners, and entrepreneurs. Nonetheless, the evidence regarding the efficacy and efficacy of these programs is ambiguous and uncertain. Some studies have shown that government support helps SME performance indicators, such as sales, profits, employment, productivity, innovation, and exports. Other studies have found that government support for SME outcomes is negative or doesn't affect them at all, or that there is a lot of variation among different types of programs, beneficiaries, contexts, and methods.
This paper aims to provide a comprehensive and critical analysis of the literature regarding the impact of government support programs on the development and growth of small and medium enterprises. It includes both theoretical and empirical studies that examine the rationale, design, implementation, evaluation, and outcomes of various forms of government support for SMEs. A questionnaire based survey consisting of geographically unique SMEs was conducted. 68 SMEs had opted to provide responses to the questionnaire based on research the hypothesis of this study. In addition, it discusses the main challenges and limitations of the existing literature, and provides recommendations for further research and practice.
Eine Analyse des Kinderbuches Traumfresserchen von Michael Ende und des Märchens Hänsel und Gretel aus der komparatistischen Perspektive
Authors: ALBAYRAK Kadir
Published: October 2023

Michael Ende hat viele Werke geschrieben, die für die Kinder- und Jugendliteratur als bedeutend gelten können. Unendliche Geschichte und Momo sind die bekanntesten davon. In dieser Studie werden Endes Werk Das Traumfresserchen und das Märchen Hänsel und Gretel untersucht. In dem Werk wird erzählt, dass Schlafittchen, die Tochter des Königs und der Königin, die in Schlummerland lebt, nicht schlafen kann, weil sie Angst vor schlechten Träumen hat, und der König sich auf eine schwierige Reise begibt, um eine Lösung für dieses Problem zu finden. Auf dieser schwierigen Reise trifft der König auf ein Wesen namens Traumfresserchen und es schreibt dem König einen Spruch, sobald dieser Spruch gelesen wird, kommt das Traumfresserchen und frisst böse Träume und die Prinzessin kann wieder gut schlafen. Es ist klar, dass Endes Kinderbuch viele Elemente des Märchengenres enthält. Einige dieser Elemente können als die Reise des Königs, die fantastische Figur und Beschwörungen aufgeführt werden. Besonders Endes Werk erinnert in Bezug auf die Vater-Kind-Beziehung an das Märchen von Hänsel und Gretel. In dieser Studie wird Endes Werk Das Traumfresserchen zusammen mit dem Märchen Hänsel und Gretel vergleichend auf märchenhafte Merkmale hin untersucht.
Policy Implementation of Quality Assurance and Accreditation in The Nepalese Higher Education Institutions Offering Hospitality Education
Authors: Biswakarma Gangaram , Dhakal Niraj
Published: October 2023

Quality assurance and accreditation has become essential components of higher education globally. Policy implementation is necessary for quality assurance and accreditation in Nepalese higher education institutions offering hospitality education. The study aims to explore the current state of policy implementation, identify the challenges and gaps in the implementation process, and recommend strategies for improving the policy implementation. The study uses a descriptive research design with a mixed approach using structured questionnaire and structure interview schedule about the implementation of QAA in the Nepalese higher education institution offering hospitality education. This study uses purposive sampling. This study includes14 hospitality management professionals and 97 hospitality students. The study finds that Nepal has recognized the importance of quality assurance and accreditation in higher education, and policies have been developed to implement them in the hospitality education sector. However, the implementation of these policies faces several challenges and gaps. This study emphasizes stakeholder participation, clear policies, and transparent feedback. Clear curriculum, various teaching techniques, and student-accessible amenities improve campus culture and student achievement. Resources, interdisciplinary research, and real-world research improve learners and community. Resource allocation, capacity-building, partnerships, staff professional development, and funding exploration can improve quality assurance, UGC compliance, and student happiness.
Vacuum filtration method towards flexible thermoelectric films
Authors: Wang Chenxi , Liu Qing , Song Haijun , Jiang Qinglin
Published: October 2023

Thermoelectric (TE) conversion technology can directly exploit the temperature difference of several Kelvin between the human body and the environment to generate electricity, which provides a self-powered solution for wearable electronics. Flexible TE materials are increasingly being developed through various methods, among which the vacuum filtration method stands out for its unique advantages, attracting the favor of researchers. It has been proven to construct flexible TE thin films with excellent performance effectively. This paper presents a comprehensive overview and survey of the advances of the vacuum filtration method in producing flexible TE thin films. The materials covered in this study include conducting polymer-based materials, carbon nanoparticle-based materials, inorganic materials, two-dimensional materials, and ternary composites. Finally, we explore potential research outlooks and the significance of flexible films, which are at the forefront of research in TE materials science.
Membangun Kesadaran Anti Kekerasan Seksual untuk Mahasiswa Baru di Lingkungan Kampus
Authors: Susanto Agus , Setiyanto Riyan , Mulya Dody , Purwanto Diyan Sakti
Published: October 2023

Kegiatan ini bertujuan untuk meningkatkan kesadaran mahasiswa terhadap tindak kekerasan seksual di lingkungan kampus. Metode yang digunakan adalah melalui kuliah umum tatap muka yang diselenggarakan selama dua minggu, yaitu pada minggu ke 3 dan 4 bulan Agustus 2023, di ruang kelas kampus 2 Politeknik Indonusa. Hasil dari kegiatan ini menunjukkan peningkatan signifikan kesadaran mahasiswa terkait potensi terjadinya tindak kekerasan seksual di lingkungan kampus. Pada kegiatan ini, mahasiswa baru diberikan pemahaman yang lebih baik tentang dapat tindak kekerasan seksual, serta pentingnya mencegah dan melaporkannya. Selain itu, kegiatan ini juga memberikan arahan kepada mahasiswa tentang langkah-langkah konkret yang dapat mereka ambil jika mereka menjadi korban atau menyaksikan tindak kekerasan seksual di kampus. Kegiatan ini memiliki implikasi positif dalam menciptakan lingkungan kampus yang lebih aman dan mendukung. Dengan meningkatnya kesadaran mahasiswa, diharapkan akan ada penurunan kasus kekerasan seksual di kampus ini. Kegiatan serupa sebaiknya diteruskan dan diperluas untuk menciptakan lingkungan pendidikan yang bebas dari kekerasan seksual.
The Role of Auto Driller, Rig Control Systems and Driller Procedures in Reduction of BHA Failures
Authors: Barajas Pablo E. , Pastusek Paul , Lacey Aaron , Sharp Matt , Whitlow Zack , Glenn Landon , Melton Micah , Menand Stephane , Holder Bradley , Kendrick Stephen , Witt-Doerring Ysabel
Published: October 2023

Reducing bottom hole assembly (BHA) failures has been the focus of this operator in US land intermediate and lateral sections to reduce cost per foot. BHA failures can be mitigated with better auto driller processes, improved rig control system technology and drilling mechanics based procedures. The operator, rig contractor and BHA service providers engaged in an intensive continuous improvement process for 18 months to help two rigs in Oklahoma reduce BHA's per well. The goal was to determine how to best tune the auto driller and standardize set point practices. By investigating this for each stand drilled, the plan was to improve bit run footage and reduce BHA tool failures per hole section. The rig contractor deployed a system upgrade and adjusted driller procedures to help identify auto driller dysfunction quicker. In-bit sensors that measured drilling parameters, vibration and strain were run to validate suspected downhole dysfunction and premature bit failure.

The operator's procedure to quickly evaluate and mitigate auto driller dysfunction was trialed to distinguish rig control system induced dysfunction from downhole drilling mechanics dysfunction. For the Oklahoma rigs, auto driller stability was evaluated and improved in ∼50 BHA runs in the 12-1/4″ intermediate hole sections and in ∼100 BHA runs in the 8-3/4″ lateral BHA runs. Motor failures in the 12-1/4″ intermediate section and in the 8-3/4″ lateral sections were reduced, as were premature bit failures.

Also, it was found that tool joint hang-up in the rotating head were exciting the rig control system into dysfunction and causing a significant reduction in downhole weight on bit (WOB), differential pressure (DP) and rate of penetration (ROP). These hang-up events were occurring 3 times per stand, and although ROP would recover after the tool joint exited the rotating head, damaging vibrations at the bit continued long after the ROP recovered. The operator's tool joint compensation procedure was implemented in subsequent runs and lateral bit vibration and dull condition improved substantially.

The learnings from the auto driller continuous improvement process were cascaded to two additional rigs in another basin in East Texas. Reducing depth of cut (DOC) variance through ROP set point management in interbedded formations reduced required bit runs in the second basin as well.

The rig contractor deployed an upgraded auto driller system to minimize parameter variance and extend the life motors in high temperature laterals reducing the risk of catastrophic failure. And the rig contractor and operator continue to develop and trial auto driller dysfunction alarms to alert to possible BHA dysfunction. New tools, processes and scorecards are being developed to aid in the identification of dysfunction in rotary and slide drilling.
Transport and Plugging Performance Evaluation of a Novel Re-Crosslinkable Microgel Used for Conformance Control in Mature Oilfields with Super-Permeable Channels
Authors: Alotibi Adel , Song T. , Bai Baojun , Schuman T. P.
Published: October 2023

Preformed particle gels (PPG) have been widely applied in oilfields to control excessive water production. However, PPG has limited success in treating opening features because the particles can be flushed readily during post-water flooding. We have developed a novel micro-sized Re-crosslinkable PPG (micro-RPPG) to solve the problem. The microgel can re-crosslink to form a bulk gel, avoiding being washed out easily. This paper evaluates the novel microgels’ transport and plugging performance through super-permeable channels. Micro-RPPG was synthesized and evaluated for this study. Its storage moduli after fully swelling are approximately 82 Pa. The microgel characterization, self-healing process, transportation behavior, and plugging performance were investigated. A sandpack model with multi-pressure taps was utilized to assess the microgel dispersions’ transport behavior and plugging efficiency. In addition, micro-optical visualization of the gel particles was deployed to study the particle size changes before and after the swelling process. Tube tests showed that micro-RPPG could be dispersed and remain as separate particles in water with a concentration below 8,000 ppm, which is a favorable concentration for gel treatment. However, during the flooding test, the amount of microgel can be entrapped in the sandpack, resulting in a higher microgel concentration (higher than 8,000 ppm), endowing the gel particles with re-crosslinking ability even with excessive water. The microgel could propagate through the sandpack model, and the required pressure gradient mainly depends on the average particle/pore ratio and gel concentration. The gel dispersion significantly reduced channel permeability, providing sufficient resistance to post-water flooding (more than 99.97 % permeability reduction). In addition, the evaluation of micro-RPPG retention revealed that it is primarily affected by both gel concentration particle/pore ratios. We have demonstrated that the novel re-crosslinkable microgel can transport through large channels, but it can provide effective plugging due to its unique re-crosslinking property. However, by this property, the new microgel exhibits enhanced stability and demonstrates resistance to being flushed out in such high-permeability environments. Furthermore, with the help of novel technology, it is possible to overcome the inherited problems commonly associated with in-situ gel treatments, including chromatographic issues, low-quality control, and shearing degradation.
Unleashing Excellence: Using a Project Management Approach to Effectively Implement a Simulation Curriculum to Improve Resident’s Preparedness
Authors: Claudia Ebm , Pozo Ana Carolina del , Andrea Barbarello , Giovani Poli , Brusa Stefania
Published: October 2023

Background:The implementation of innovative, simulation-based training programs in medical education is confronted with well-known challenges such as skepticism, limited faculty time, and financial constraints. The Harvard Project Management (PM) Theory, famous for its effectiveness in business projects, holds potential for optimizing success equally in medical education. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of utilizing the Harvard project approach in enhancing curriculum design success, and to further assess the impact of the improved simulation-based training curriculum on the clinical preparedness of novice residents.
Methods:Twelve residency schools from Humanitas University in Milan, Italy were asked to participate in a monthly, high-fidelity simulation curriculum. Over a 12-month period, a total of twenty-two clinical high-fidelity cases were performed, focusing on patient safety and relevant topics for first-year residents across all specialties. The study employed a four-phase implementation approach: Ideation, Scale, Execution, and Closing, using project management tools like project charters, risk management, and monitoring mechanisms to standardize processes and enhance clinical deliverables. Key elements of this new management approach included defining milestones, engaging stakeholders, enhancing accountability, aligning to institutional policies and processes, and adhering to preset timelines and budgets.
Results: A total of 395 residents participated in the monthly simulation-based events, with an average participation rate of 39 +/- 19 residents per lecture. The average rating for expected skills learned significantly improved from 5.9/10 to 8.8/10 (p=0.0001). Participants found the impact on future clinical practice (4,7/5) and teamwork (4.8/5) most useful. Faculty members positively appreciated the new organizational structure, allowing them more visibility and time saving (4,8/5). The qualitative evaluation of the implementation process emphasized the importance of structured communication, specific incentive schemes, and illustrative data analysis and presentation.
Conclusion: This project highlights the positive impact of project management in simulation-based curriculum design, emphasizing the involvement of stakeholders, faculty motivation, and effective communication. The utilization of the Harvard Project Management Approach enhances curriculum design success and improves emergency preparedness for novice residents. Future implementations can build upon these findings to further optimize medical education programs.
The minimum effective dose (MED90) of remimazolam for inhibiting responses to the insertion of a duodenoscope during ERCP
Authors: GUO Yan , Dong Shu-an , SHI Jia , CHEN Hui-rong , Liu Sha-sha , Wu Li-li , Wang Jing-hua , Zhang Li , Li Huan-xi , YU Jian-bo
Published: October 2023

Backgroundː Compared to midazolam, remimazolam has a faster onset and offset of hypnotic effect, as well as cardiorespiratory stability, this study aims to determine the minimum effective dose (MED90) of remimazolam to inhibit responses to insertion of a duodenoscope during ERCP.
MethodsːA dose-response study was carried out undergoing ERCP who received remimazolam-alfentanil anesthesia using 10 µg/kg of alfentanil between September 2021 and November 2021. The initial dose of remimazolam was 0.2 mg/kg. The dose was then decided based on the responses of earlier patients by exploiting the sequential ascend and descend according to a 9: 1 biased coin design. Upon failure, the dose of remimazolam was increased by 0.025 mg/kg in the next patient. When the insertion was successful, the succeeding patient was randomized to an identical dose or a dose that was lower by 0.025 mg/kg.The MED90 of remimazolam for inhibiting responses to the insertion of a duodenoscope during ERCP was calculated. Adverse events and complications of remimazolam were recorded.
ResultsːA total of 55 elderly patients (age>65) were included in the study. 45 successfully anesthetized patients, and 10 unsuccessfully. The MED90 of remimazolam was 0.300 mg/kg (95% CI = 0.287–0.320). MED95 was 0.315 (95% CI = 0.312–0.323) and MED99 was 0.323 (95% CI = 0.323–0.325). Among the patients, 9 patients developed hypotension, 2 patients developed bradycardia and 1 patient developed tachycardia, and hypoxia occurred in 2 patients.
Conclusionː A loading dose of 0.300 mg / kg of remimazolam for elderly patients undergoing ERCP can safely, effectively, and quickly induce patients to fall asleep and inhibit responses to the insertion of a duodenoscope.
Trial registration：
The study protocol was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05053763).
Stretchable Zein-Coated Alginate Fiber for Aligning Muscle Cells to Artificially Produce Cultivated Meat
Authors: Bae hojae , Jeong Dayi , Jang Goo , Jung Woo Kyung , Park Yong Ho
Published: October 2023

Numerous studies have explored the cultivation of muscle cells using non-animal materials for cultivated meat production. Achieving muscle cell proliferation and alignment using 3D scaffolds made from plant-based materials remains challenging. This study introduces a technique to culture and align muscle cells using only plant-based materials, avoiding toxic chemical modifications. Zein-alginate fibers (ZA fibers) were fabricated by coating zein protein onto alginate fibers (A fibers). Zein’s excellent cell compatibility and biodegradability enable high cell adhesion and proliferation rates, and the good ductility of the ZA fibers enable a high strain rate (> 75%). We demonstrate mature and aligned myotube formation in ZA fibers, providing a simple way to align muscle cells using plant-based materials. Additionally, cultivated meat was constructed by assembling muscle, fat, and vessel fibers. This method holds promise for the future mass production of cultivated meat.
Acupuncture for perimenopausal stable angina pectoris with insomnia: A protocol for randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial research
Authors: Shi Rui , Liu Zhaozheng , Meng Wenyi , Chang Liping , Lu Ruozhu , Xue Wen , Chen Xingyu , Deng Yue , Song Zhenhua
Published: October 2023

Background
Insomnia has emerged as a major public health issue jeopardizing human wellbeing. Furthermore, insomnia and angina arise concomitantly and exert reciprocal effects. Multiple studies suggest that perimenopausal females are more prone to experiencing both angina and insomnia, consequently substantially compromising their quality of life.Credible evidence suggests that acupuncture exerts a beneficial impact in alleviating insomnia. Nevertheless, the exhaustive investigation into the potential of acupuncture for mitigating insomnia co-occurring with stable angina in perimenopausal females remains a realm yet to be traversed in the realm of randomized controlled trials. Hence, the primary intent of this research protocol was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety profile of acupuncture when administered to perimenopausal subjects grappling with concomitant conditions of stable angina and insomnia.
Methods
This study entails a single-center, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. A total of 110 patients exhibiting insomnia concomitant with stable angina in the perimenopausal period will be enlisted and randomized to either acupuncture or sham acupuncture. Participants in both arms will undergo 30-minute sessions thrice weekly over a 12-week intervention period, with a 12-week maximum follow-up. The primary outcome measure is the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index(PSQI). Secondary outcomes encompass the Health-Related Quality of Life Questionnaire (SF-36), Dosage of hypnotic medications, SAP-associated evaluations (including C-reactive protein, lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2, cardiac fatty acid-binding protein levels, and the Seattle Angina Questionnaire), the Hamilton Depression Inventory (HAMD), and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7). Primary and secondary outcomes will be evaluated at baseline, 4 weeks, 8 weeks, 12 weeks (upon completion of the intervention), and at an additional 12-week follow-up. Any adverse events will be rigorously classified and characterized with respect to time of onset and abatement, therapeutic interventions implemented, impact on the primary morbidity, and regression.
Discussion
The current study is poised to furnish pivotal clinical data on the utility of acupuncture for stable angina with concomitant insomnia in perimenopausal women, with the findings to be propagated through academic conferences and peer-reviewed publications.
Trial registration:
TCTR20221121001. Registered 19 November 2022
Performance Indicators for effective Asset Management and Leakage Reduction in Drinking Water Infrastructures
Authors: Giustolisi Orazio , Mazzolani Gianfredi , Ciliberti Francesco Gino , Laucelli Daniele Biagio , Berardi Luigi
Published: October 2023

Recent regulation initiatives and the ongoing digital transition in the water sector are opening a new era in drinking water infrastructure management boosted by unprecedented funding opportunities from the post-pandemic recovery plans worldwide. These investments are not solely directed at updating equipment or replacing aging pipes, but they are geared towards enhancing the efficiency of such infrastructures. Asset management, with respect to the need of leakage reduction and control in drinking water infrastructure, is a major concern for the utilities since water loss undermines the socio-economic and environmental sustainability also with respect to energy resources. In fact, the level of water loss represents an indicator of the infrastructure’s “health” status, thus assuming importance for asset management. The effectiveness of a water loss performance indicator is a relevant issue because it guides the investment, thereby the quality of the public expenditure. The present effort aims at the detailed and scientific analysis of the effectiveness of the linear and percentage water loss indicator. The linear water loss indicator proves to be effective, because scalable, and it is the basis of novel indicator, named Asset Management Support Indicator, which can drive the quality of the expenditure for water loss reduction.
Safety and short-term efficacy of GERD patients with ineffective esophageal motility treated with RefluxStop™ device implantation – a multicentric observational study
Authors: Feka Joy , Saad Merola , Boyle Nicholas , Paireder Matthias , Kristo Ivan , Rieder Erwin , Asari Reza , Schoppmann Sebastian F.
Published: October 2023

Background
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) presents a general health problem with a variety of symptoms and an impairment of life quality. Conservative therapies do not offer sufficient symptom relief in up to 30% of patients. Especially in patients with GERD and ineffective esophageal motility (IEM), surgical treatment is often inevitable, due to possible side effects. RefluxStop is a new alternative anti-reflux surgery potentially reducing postoperative dysphagia rates.
Methods
In this bicentric tertiary hospital observational study consecutive patients diagnosed with PPI refractory GERD and IEM that received RefluxStop implantation were included. A first safety and efficacy evaluation including clinical examination and GERD-HRQL questionnaire was conducted.
Results
40 patients (25 male and 15 female) were included. 31 patients (77.5%) were on PPI at time of surgery, with mean acid exposure time of 8.14% ± 2.53. The median hospital stay was 3 days. Postoperative QoL improved significantly measured by GERD HRQL total score from 32.83 ± 5.08 to 6.6 ± 3.71 (p < 0.001). A 84% reduction of PPI usage (p < 0.001) was noted. 36 patients (90%) showed gone or improved symptoms and were satisfied at first follow-up. Two severe adverse events need mentioning: one postoperative slipping of the RefluxStop with need of immediate revisional operation on the first postoperative day (clavian-dindo score 3b) and one device migration with no necessary further intervention.
Conclusion
RefluxStop device implantation is safe and efficient in the short term follow up in patients with GERD and IEM. Further studies and longer follow-up are necessary to prove long-lasting positive effects.
An atypical case of anterograde type A dissection masked as Giant Cell Arteritis: Case Report
Authors: Martinez Camilo J. , Murundi Shamanth , Price Jonathan
Published: October 2023

Background
Acute aortic dissections are medical emergencies that necessitate prompt diagnosis. Stanford Type A aortic dissections – classically presenting with tearing chest pain – can have atypical symptoms that are only recognized upon imaging.
Case Presentation
: We present a 70-year-old female presenting to the emergency department after outpatient visits with concern for temporal arteritis. She has a significant rheumatologic history of systemic lupus erythematosus, osteoporosis, fibromyalgia, and bilateral anserine bursitis. Given her symptoms of jaw claudication, otalgia, and elevated inflammatory markers, a diagnosis of giant cell arteritis was pursued and managed with prednisone. She endorsed worsening shortness of breath in the past week, prompting evaluation for new onset congestive heart failure. A CT was obtained and a Type A dissection extending into the bilateral carotid arteries was incidentally found. She was immediately taken to the operating room for ascending and hemiarch aortic replacement. She recovered well and did not have any complications.
Conclusions
Given the growing awareness of a relationship between GCA and aortic involvement, vigilance in this population can identify complications early. Clinicians should consider further examination of long standing rheumatological patients with atypical presentations given the possibility of an undiagnosed aortic dissection.
The impact of space, host dissimilitude and environment on prokaryotic communities of golf ball sponges
Authors: Cleary Daniel FR , de Voogd Nicole J
Published: October 2023

Golf ball sponges are small, sometimes inconspicuous, sponges. They can be found across a range of habitats varying from perturbed and pristine coral reefs to harbours and marine lakes and from the deep sea to shallow waters. They can be difficult to distinguish in the field and have presented some problems with taxonomists lumping and splitting species due to the difficulty in defining clear species traits. In the present study, we sampled golf ball sponges from Indo-Pacific and Caribbean locations and used 16S gene amplicon sequencing to study their prokaryotic communities. We show that golf ball sponges harbour a wide variety of prokaryotic communities. Among the most prevalent operational taxonomic units (OTUs), several belonged to a range of taxa, including AqS1 and ED94, which have been associated with genes known to facilitate interactions between hosts and microbes. Certain host taxa were enriched with OTUs assigned to the SAR202 clade of Chloroflexi. Our findings show that prokaryotic dissimilarity varied as a function of space (geographical distance) and host dissimilitude. The importance of space and host dissimilitude, however, varied depending on the data transformation with host dissimilitude a more important predictor of untransformed data whereas space was a more important predictor of log-transformed data. Given that log-transformation down scales the influence of abundant taxa, we interpret these results by the tendency of closely related host organisms to host similar abundant symbiotic microorganisms whereas specimens that are distantly sampled tend to harbour less abundant prokaryotic microorganisms that mirror the characteristics of their distant environments.
Functional analysis of the Dof gene family in sugar beet root tuber development
Authors: Sun Yaqing , Zhang Yongfeng , Jian Caiyuan , Wang Tong , Cao Guoli , Li Ningning , Li Guolong , Zhang Shaoying
Published: October 2023

In this study, members of the BvDof transcription factor family were identified in the beet genome data (Beta vulgaris L.) Through systematic analysis, 22 BvDof family genes were found in the beet genome, and they were divided into nine groups by phylogenetic analysis. Fifteen members of the BvERF family were involved in the transition to rapid root tuber growth. There was a tandem replication during the generation of the Dof gene family in sugar beet. Bv1_zfms, Bv_ofna, Bv5_racn, and Bv6_augo may be involved in the regulation of secondary cambium development in the beet root tuber. Bv9_nood, Bv1_zfms, and Bv6_cdca may be related to the growth rate of root tubers. The results provide a reference for further elucidating the molecular mechanism of the BvDof transcription factor, which regulates the development of beet root tubers.
Sex Differences in Pain Catastrophizing and Its Relation to the Transition From Acute Pain to Chronic Pain
Authors: LE Linh H.L. , BROWN Vanessa A.V. , MOL Sander , AZIJLI Kaoutar , KUIJPER Martijn M. , BECKER Leonie , KOOPMAN Seppe S.H.A.
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND AND IMPORTANCE
Differences exist between sexes in pain and pain-related outcomes, such as development of chronic pain. Previous studies suggested a higher risk for pain chronification in female patients. Furthermore, pain catastrophizing is an important risk factor for chronification of pain. However, it is unclear whether sex differences in catastrophic thinking could explain the sex differences in pain chronification.
OBJECTIVES
The aim of this study was to examine sex differences in pain catastrophizing. Additionally, we investigated pain catastrophizing as a potential mediator of sex differences in the transition of acute to chronic pain.
Design, settings and participants:
Adults visiting one of the 15 participating emergency departments in the Netherlands with acute pain-related complaints. Subjects had to meet inclusion criteria and complete questionnaires about their health and pain (n = 1,906).
OUTCOMES MEASURE AND ANALYSIS
The outcomes in this prospective cohort study were pain catastrophizing (short form pain catastrophizing) and pain chronification at 90 days (Numeric Rating Scale ≥ 1). Data was analysed using univariate and multivariable logistic regression models. Finally, stratified regression analyses were conducted to assess whether differences in pain catastrophizing accounted for observed differences in pain chronification between sexes.
MAIN RESULTS
Females catastrophized pain significantly more than males (p<0.001). Multiple regression analyses suggested that pain catastrophizing is associated with pain chronification in both sexes, although significance was not reached in all groups.
CONCLUSIONS
This study reported differences between sexes in catastrophic cognitions in the development of chronic pain. This is of clinical importance to identify high-risk patients and ensure an early intervention to prevent the transition from acute to chronic pain.
Comorbidity Risk and Distribution Characteristics of Chronic Diseases in the Elderly in China
Authors: Xiang Zihang , Wang Hao , Li Handong
Published: October 2023

Background The comorbidity risk of chronic diseases in the elderly is an important problem affecting the health of the elderly and quality of life. We try to analyze comorbidity risk and characteristics of major chronic diseases in 65+ elderly people in China using CLHLS(Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey) data in 2018.
Methods First, we use the original data to construct a hypothetical cohort in the elderly with age. The complex network is used to reduce the dimensionality of diseases in male and female respectively; the multi-state transfer model is used to calculate the comorbidity of each chronic disease, exploring the comorbidity characteristics and rules.
Results Seven chronic diseases of hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, stroke, chronic lung disease, arthritis and dyslipidemia in men, and of the above diseases, six chronic diseases except chronic lung disease in women showed significant comorbidity. The incidence show differences in age and gender, increase with age in completely healthy state, generally decline at about 98 years old. In the presence of other chronic diseases as basic diseases, the incidence of each disease increases with the increase of the number of chronic diseases.
Conclusions (1) When hypertension is present as a basic disease, its impact on the risk of each chronic disease is much less than that of other chronic diseases; (2) For the elderly men, hypertension-heart disease, diabetes-dyslipidemia are two chronic disease combinations that have the greatest impact on each other; For elderly women, hypertension-heart is the only pair of disease combinations that have the greatest impact on each other.
Patterns of Kidney Function and Risk Assessment in a Nationwide Laboratory Database: The Brazilian CHECK-CKD Study
Authors: Guedes Murilo , Dias Paulo Telles , Réa Rosângela R. , Calice-Silva Viviane , Lopes Marcelo , Brandão Andrea Araujo , Bauer Andrea Carla , Senerchia Andreza Almeida , Rocha Pedro Tulio , Rosa Bruno Bezerra , Teixeira Cinthia Montenegro , Pecoits-Filho Roberto
Published: October 2023

Background
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a global health problem with rising prevalence, morbidity, mortality, and associated costs. Early identification and risk stratification are key to preventing progression to kidney failure. However, there is a paucity of data on practice patterns of kidney function assessment to guide the development of improvement strategies, particularly in lower-income countries.
Methods
A retrospective observational analysis was conducted in a nationwide laboratory database in Brazil. We included all adult patients with at least one serum creatinine assessment between June 2018 and May 2021. Our primary objective was to determine the proportion of patients with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) evaluations accompanied by equivalents of urinary to creatinine ratio (eUCR) assessments within 12 months.
Results
Out of 4,5323,332 serum creatinine measurements, 42% lacked eUCR measurements within 12 months. Approximately 10.8% of tests suggested CKD, mostly at stage 3a. The proportion of serum creatinine exams paired with eUCR assessment varied according to the CKD stage. Internal Medicine, Cardiology, and Obstetrics/Gynecology were the specialties requesting most of the creatinine tests. Nephrology contributed with only 1.1% of serum creatinine requests for testing.
Conclusion
Our findings reveal that a significant proportion of individuals with a creatinine test lack an accompanying urinary eUCR in Brazil, contrary to the recommendations of the international guidelines. Non-Nephrologists perform most kidney function evaluations, even among patients with presumable advanced CKD. This highlights the urge to incorporate in clinical practice the early detection of CKD and to encourage more collaborative multidisciplinary care to improve CKD management.
Diagnosis of Trichomonas vaginalis in suspicious women referred to health centres in Tabriz, north of Iran by microscopy and PCR methods
Authors: Barzgar Gholamreza , Kohansal Mohammad Hasan , Ahmadi Reza , Norouzi Roghayeh , Siyadatpanah Abolghasem , Ahmadpour Ehsan
Published: October 2023

Purpose
Trichomoniasis is a parasitic disease of human reproductive-urinary system and the most important non-viral sexually transmitted infection worldwide. Due toits importance to the human reproductive health, HIV transmission and limited information on the prevalence of Trichomonas vaginalis, current study was investigated to evaluate of T. vaginalis among suspicious women who referred to health centers of Tabriz, northwest of Iran.
Methods
Study was conducted on 448 suspicious women who attended to the gynecological ward of 29 Bahman hospital in Tabriz,northwest of Iran, during September 2016 to September 2017. Demographic datawas collected based on study protocol. Vaginal discharges were obtained by sterile swabs and prevalence of T. vaginalis was determined wet-mount staining examinations and PCR method.
Results
Of the 448 cases studied, 48 (10.7%) were positive by wet-mount staining examinations, 4 (0.89%) by PCR method respectively. The mean age of infected individual was 41.7 ± 9.4 years. No statistical correlation was observed between inflammation, method of contraception and parasitological results (p = 0.8).
Conclusion
The results of presentstudy showed a relatively low prevalence of T. vaginalis infection in the study population. Clinical diagnosis besides variety of end-stage techniques to obtain an accurate data are needed.
Individual Behavioral Variability Across Time and Contexts in Dendrobates tinctorius Poison Frogs
Authors: Soto Katharina M , Hardin Faith O , Alleyne Harmen P , Fischer Eva K
Published: October 2023

Consistent individual differences in behavior (aka, “animal personality”) have consequences for individual fitness, adaptive trajectories, and species’ persistence. Such differences have been documented across a wide range of animals, though amphibians are generally underrepresented in this research area. The aim of our study was to examine consistent individual differences in poison frogs (Dendrobates tinctorius). We evaluated repeatability in behaviors including activity, exploration, and boldness to assess consistency of behaviors across different temporal, experimental, and environmental contexts. We found repeatability in activity and exploration across time and contexts. In contrast, we observed context-specific behavior for our metrics of boldness, with consistent individual differences only for some measures. Further, while activity and exploration displayed consistent correlations across contexts, relationships between activity and boldness were context dependent. Our findings document the presence of consistent individual differences in behavior in poison frogs, challenging historic assumptions about the simplicity of amphibian behavior. Nonetheless, our approach testing the same individuals across multiple time points and assays also reveals context-dependent differences, highlighting the complex relationship between consistent individual differences and context-specific responses in animal behavior.
Achievement of defect-free and high-properties Multilayer copper foils soft connection by Friction Stir Welding
Authors: Li Zihang , Deng Yongfang , Zeng Jincheng , Hu Liang , Zhou Yutao , Qiu Zherui
Published: October 2023

The connection of new energy vehicle batteries often involves a copper soft connection. In this experiment, Friction Stir Welding (FSW) of multilayer copper foils (TU1) were proposed for the research of copper soft connection. It studies the correlation between microhardness profiles, conductivity test data, welding morphology and process parameters. When the rotation speed increased from 300,600,900,1200 rpm to 1500 rpm, the copper color of the weld changes, and the welding morphology is better at the parameter of 900 rpm-80 mm/min. Elongated grains were processed into fine equiaxed and recrystallized grains by FSW. Continuous dynamic recrystallization (CDRX) was the main restoration mechanism responsible for the microstructural evolution in the NZ. After 900 rpm-80 mm/min FSW of multilayer copper foils, the hardness of the welding zone increases 23 HV and the conductivity decreases 22 IACS. After friction stir welding, the hardness value is the opposite trend of ω/v changes, and conductivity value is the similar change trend of ω/v changes in the NZ.
The impact of accumulated exposure to non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol on premature cardiovascular events
Authors: Wang Yifei , Zhao Xuemei , Gao Haibo , Li Wei , Wu Haotian , Wang Guiping , Liu Xiaokun , Wu Shouling
Published: October 2023

Background
There are many common risk factors for premature cardiovascular disease. Among them, non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C) has been proven to be a significant risk factor. However, a single measurement cannot reflect the long-term impact of non-HDL-C on premature cardiovascular disease.
Methods
This study selected active and retired employees from Kailuan Group who participated in the annual health examinations in 2006, 2008, and 2010 as the study population. The Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to analyze the hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) of different cumulative exposures to non-HDL-C on the risk of premature cardiovascular disease.
Results
During a median follow-up period of 9.88 years, we observed 285 cases of early cardiovascular events out of 16,684 study participants. The Cox proportional hazards regression model analysis showed that as the cumulative exposure to non-HDL-C increased, the risk of premature cardiovascular disease gradually increased. Compared to the reference group first quartile of cumnon-HDL-C, the HRs (95% CI) for the second, third, and fourth quartiles were 1.26 (0.81, 1.95), 1.58 (1.04, 2.40), and 1.81 (1.18, 2.77), respectively. Furthermore, with longer cumulative exposure times, the risk of premature cardiovascular disease increased. Compared to no cumulative exposure to non-HDL-C, the HRs (95% CI) for cumulative exposures of 2 years and ≥ 4 years were 1.63 (1.16, 2.30) and 1.73 (1.07, 2.79), respectively.
Conclusion
Cumulative exposure to non-HDL-C is a risk factor for early cardiovascular events and is independent of single non-HDL-C measurement values.
Noise-Induced Hearing Loss Alters Potassium-Chloride CoTransporter KCC2 and GABA Inhibition in the auditory centers
Authors: Parameshwarappa Vinay , Siponen Marina , Watabe Isabelle , Karkaba Alaa , Galazyuk Alex , Noreña Arnaud
Published: October 2023

Homeostatic plasticity, the ability of neurons to maintain their averaged activity constant around a set point value, is thought to account for the central hyperactivity after hearing loss. Here, we investigated the putative role of GABAergic neurotransmission in this mechanism after a noise-induced hearing loss larger than 50 dB in high frequencies in guinea pigs. The effect of GABAergic inhibition is linked to the normal functioning of K+‒Cl- co-transporter isoform 2 (KCC2) which maintains a low intracellular concentration of chloride. The expression of membrane KCC2 were investigated before after noise trauma in the ventral and dorsal cochlear nucleus (VCN and DCN, respectively) and in the inferior colliculus (IC). Moreover, the effect of gabazine (GBZ), a GABA antagonist, was also studied on the neural activity in IC. We show that KCC2 is downregulated in VCN, DCN and IC 3 days after noise trauma, and in DCN and IC 30 days after the trauma. As expected, GBZ application in the IC of control animals resulted in an increase of spontaneous and stimulus-evoked activity. In the noise exposed animals, on the other hand, GBZ application decreased the stimulus-evoked activity in IC neurons. The functional implications of these central changes are discussed.
Quality of Life among Medical Students at the Clinical Levels at Sana'a University
Authors: Al-Mustafa Ahmed M. , Al-Shamahi Malak N. , Al-Nono Amin A. , Almukhtari Alaa A. , AlGhazaly Asma J. , Al-oqbi Yusra A. , Al-humidi Shifaa A. , Al-maqtari Hamdan M. , Mareh Amani H. , Sharaf Shadi K.
Published: October 2023

Background
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines quality of life (QoL) as individuals' perceptions of their position in life in the context of the culture and value systems in which they live and in relation to their goals, expectations, standards and concerns. Starting clinical training means a new challenge that requires special capabilities in an unfavorable environment. We aimed to assess the (QoL) among medical students at the clinical levels at Sana'a University and correlate it with sociodemographic factors.
Methodology
: A descriptive cross-sectional study with a sample size of 371 medical students at the clinical levels and internship from January 1st to February 15th, 2023. We ran a stratified random sample and used the Arabic WHOQoL-BRE and a sociodemograhic questionnaire. Data were analyzed using the statistical package for social sciences.
Results
The participants scored highest in the overall (QoL) (69.27 ± 20.77) and general health (67.70 ± 25.67). They scored lower in other domains in a descending manner: physical health (64.38 ± 15.73), social relationships (61.61 ± 22.70), psychological health (57.16 ± 15.31) and environment (48.63 ± 15.43). Leisure time (LT) was found to be the most important predicator of the QoL in all aspects, followed by family income in the overall (QoL), physical health and environment. Advancing age, male gender, being rural and living alone or in dorms scored poorly in the environment. Females scored better in the overall (QoL) than males. The social relationships were in favor of married students. Initial clinical levels scored poorly in terms of physical health.
Conclusion
Our participants have a relatively good overall (QoL) and general health. Nevertheless, they scored poorly in the psychological health and environment. Sufficient family income and (LT) are crucial to a better (QoL). We believe orientation programs, revised curricula, proper and adequate clinical training, level-compatible and objective exams and creating sources of income for interns would significantly improve their (QoL). Medical students at the clinical levels are in extreme need for (LT). Dorms should reconsider their services, and rural inhabitants need support from all.