bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Phosphorus Fertilizer Sources and Lime on Acidic Soil Properties of Mollic Rhodic Nitisol in Welmera District, Central Ethiopia
Authors: Dejene Matiyas , Abera Girma , Desalegn Temesgen
Published: October 2023

The soil acidity problem is intensified by improper utilization of synthetic fertilizers in addition to other naturally existing causes; thus, it is important to consider effects on soil health beyond seasonal crop productivity. Most widely used sources of soluble phosphate fertilizers cannot perform effectively on acidic soil due to its fixation. Field experiments were conducted on the acidic nitisols of Welmera District in two locations to determine the effects of using lime and different phosphorus fertilizer sources on the soil acidity attributes and nutrient use efficiency of barley crops. Treatments include a factorial combination of 4 different phosphate fertilizer sources (PARP, MOHP, NPSB, and NAFAKA) with 2 application rates (34.5 kg P2O5 ha−1 and 69 kg P2O5 ha−1) and 2 lime application rates computed from soil exchangeable acidity result 404.25 kg·ha−1 and 563.9 kg·ha−1 for on-station and on-farm sites, respectively, with no lime application (1/4th of LR and 0 lime). Partially acidulated rock phosphate as a phosphorus fertilizer significantly improves soil acidity attributes such as exchangeable acidity, present acid saturation, and plant available phosphorus, and also another soil nutrient status is significantly affected by using different phosphorus sources with the lime application. Application of PARP phosphate sources significantly improves soil exchangeable acidity and present acid saturation by 42% and 41%, respectively, over the commonly used NPSB standard sources of phosphorus fertilizer. Using lime with alternative phosphate sources also contributes to more effective nutrient use efficiency and barely yields improvements with a productive acid soil amendment option. Maintaining soil health by using those integrated approaches improves the efficient utilization of scarce unrenewable resources on sustainable bases.
Seroprevalence of Taenia saginata Cysts in Cattle, Human Hospital Cases, and Risk Factors for Human Taeniasis in Kajiado County, Kenya
Authors: Anyango Ruphline M. , Wachira Timothy M. , Muchemi Gerald M.
Published: October 2023

Taenia saginata is a zoonotic tapeworm that causes diseases in cattle and humans. A cross‐sectional survey was conducted between June and July 2021 in Kajiado County, Kenya, to estimate the seroprevalence of Taenia saginata cysts in cattle presented for slaughter in Kitengela, Kiserian, and Keekonyokie slaughterhouses; determine the annual hospital reported cases of T. saginata in humans that visited all level 4 hospitals in Kajiado County between 2015 and 2021; and assess the risk factors for Taenia saginata in humans. Analyzed data in this study revealed that the seroprevalence of Taenia saginata cysts in cattle in the selected slaughterhouses was 2.67% (4/150). The meat inspectors recorded no cysts during the study period, confirming that antibody ELISA is three times as sensitive as meat inspection. Data from hospital records showed that a total of 1,487,687 patients visited different facilities in Kajiado County between 2015 and 2021. During the same period, 29 patients were diagnosed with human taeniasis. From the risk factors assessed, uninspected home slaughter (75%), consumption of raw/improperly cooked beef (100%), and open defecation by herders (11%) still pose a risk to humans getting infected by Taenia saginata, while the presence and use of latrines (89%) and availability, accessibility, and use of taenicides (89%) seem to have significantly contributed to the reduction of Taenia saginata prevalence in this region. It is recommended that control of the infection should be centered towards continuous focused education coupled with regular deworming of the herders and school going children. This will gradually result in behavior and culture change that will ultimately reduce the prevalence and lead to the elimination of the disease.
Dupilumab Efficacy in Patients with Type 2 Asthma with and without Elevated Blood Neutrophils
Authors: Bleecker Eugene R. , Panettieri Reynold A. , Lugogo Njira L. , Corren Jonathan , Daizadeh Nadia , Jacob-Nara Juby A. , Deniz Yamo , Rowe Paul J. , Khodzhayev Angela , Soler Xavier , Ferro Thomas J. , Hansen Christopher N.
Published: October 2023

Introduction. Elevated neutrophil counts in blood, sputum, or lung have been associated with poor clinical outcomes and more severe disease in patients with type 2 asthma. In the phase 3 LIBERTY ASTHMA QUEST (NCT02414854), add-on dupilumab 200 and 300 mg every 2 weeks compared with matched placebo significantly reduced severe asthma exacerbations and improved forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) in patients with uncontrolled, moderate-to-severe asthma. This post hoc analysis explored the efficacy of dupilumab in patients with type 2 asthma enrolled in QUEST with or without elevated blood neutrophil counts. Methods. Annualized severe exacerbation rates during the 52-week treatment period and least-squares mean change from baseline in FEV1 over time were evaluated for patients with elevated type 2 biomarkers at baseline (blood eosinophils ≥ 150 cells/µL or fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) ≥ 20 ppb; and eosinophils ≥ 300 cells/µL or FeNO ≥ 50 ppb) and low (<4,000 cells/µL) or high (≥4,000 cells/µL) neutrophil counts. Results. Dupilumab significantly reduced annualized severe exacerbation rates compared with placebo during the 52-week treatment period in patients with elevated type 2 biomarkers, irrespective of baseline neutrophil count (

P
<
0.0001

for all comparisons). Significant improvements in FEV1 versus placebo were observed as early as Week 2 and over the 52-week treatment period, irrespective of baseline neutrophil count (

P
<
0.001

for all comparisons). Safety findings were similar across all subgroups, regardless of neutrophil counts at baseline. Conclusions. Dupilumab treatment significantly reduced annualized severe exacerbation rates and improved lung function in patients with uncontrolled, moderate-to-severe, type 2 asthma, irrespective of baseline blood neutrophil count. This trial is registered with NCT02414854.
Proceedings of the 2023 Cannabis Clinical Outcomes Research Conference
Authors: Goodin Amie J. , Tran Phuong T. , McKee Sam , Sajdeya Ruba , Jyot Jeevan , Cook Robert L. , Wang Yan , Winterstein Almut G.
Published: October 2023

The Consortium for Medical Marijuana Clinical Outcomes Research, a multi-university collaboration established by the state of Florida in the USA, hosted its third annual Cannabis Clinical Outcomes Research Conference (CCORC) in May 2023. CCORC was held as a hybrid conference, with a scientific program consisting of in-person sessions, with some sessions livestreamed to virtual attendees. CCORC facilitated and promoted up-to-date research on the clinical effects of medical cannabis, fostering collaboration and active involvement among scientists, policymakers, industry professionals, clinicians, and other stakeholders. Three themes emerged from conference sessions and speaker presentations: (1) disentangling conflicting evidence for the effects of medical cannabis on public health, (2) seeking solutions to address barriers faced when conducting clinical cannabis research – especially with medical cannabis use in special populations such as those who are pregnant, and (3) unpacking the data behind cannabis use and mental health outcomes. The fourth annual CCORC is planned for the summer of 2024 in Florida, USA.
Role of cAMP in Cardiomyocyte Viability: Beneficial or Detrimental?
Authors: Zhang Yishuai , Chen Si , Luo Lingfeng , Greenly Sarah , Shi Hangchuan , Xu Jasmine Jiayuan , Yan Chen
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND:

3′, 5′-cyclic AMP (cAMP) regulates numerous cardiac functions. Various hormones and neurotransmitters elevate intracellular cAMP (i[cAMP]) in cardiomyocytes through activating GsPCRs (stimulatory-G-protein-coupled-receptors) and membrane-bound ACs (adenylyl cyclases). Increasing evidence has indicated that stimulating different GsPCRs and ACs exhibits distinct, even opposite effects, on cardiomyocyte viability. However, the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood.

METHODS:

We used molecular and pharmacological approaches to investigate how different GsPCR/cAMP signaling differentially regulate cardiomyocyte viability with in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo models.

RESULTS:

For prodeath GsPCRs, we explored β1AR (beta1-adrenergic receptor) and H2R (histamine-H2-receptor). We found that their prodeath effects were similarly dependent on AC5 activation, ATP release to the extracellular space via PANX1 (pannexin-1) channel, and extracellular ATP (e[ATP])-mediated signaling involving in P2X7R (P2X purinoceptor 7) and CaMKII (Ca
2+
/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II). PANX1 phosphorylation at Serine 206 by cAMP-dependent-PKA (protein-kinase-A) promoted PANX1 activation, which was critical in β1AR- or H2R-induced cardiomyocyte death in vitro and in vivo. β1AR or H2R was localized proximately to PANX1, which permits ATP release. For prosurvival GsPCRs, we explored adenosine-A2-receptor (A2R), CGRPR (calcitonin-gene-related-peptide-receptor), and RXFP1 (relaxin-family peptide-receptor 1). Their prosurvival effects were dependent on AC6 activation, cAMP efflux via MRP4 (multidrug resistance protein 4), extracellular cAMP metabolism to adenosine (e[cAMP]-to-e[ADO]), and e[ADO]-mediated signaling. A2R, CGRPR, or RXFP1 was localized proximately to MRP4, which enables cAMP efflux. Interestingly, exogenously increasing e[cAMP] levels by membrane-impermeable cAMP protected against cardiomyocyte death in vitro and in ex vivo and in vivo mouse hearts with ischemia-reperfusion injuries.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our findings indicate that the functional diversity of different GsPCRs in cardiomyocyte viability could be achieved by their ability to form unique signaling complexes (signalosomes) that determine the fate of cAMP: either stimulate ATP release by activating PKA or directly efflux to be e[cAMP].
Performance of Thrombectomy-Capable, Comprehensive, and Primary Stroke Centers in Reperfusion Therapies for Acute Ischemic Stroke: Report From the Get With The Guidelines–Stroke Registry
Authors: Raychev Radoslav , Sun Jie-Lena , Schwamm Lee , Smith Eric E. , Fonarow Gregg C. , Messé Steven R. , Xian Ying , Chiswell Karen , Blanco Rosalia , Mac Grory Brian , Saver Jeffrey L.
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND:

The thrombectomy-capable stroke center (TSC) is a recently introduced intermediate tier of accreditation for hospitals at which patients with acute ischemic stroke receive care. The comparative quality and clinical outcomes of reperfusion therapies at TSCs, primary stroke centers (PSCs), and comprehensive stroke centers (CSCs) have not been well delineated.

METHODS:

We conducted a retrospective, observational, cohort study from 2018 to 2020 that included patients with acute ischemic stroke who received endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) and intravenous thrombolysis reperfusion therapies at CSCs, TSCs, or PSCs. Participants were recruited from Get With The Guidelines–Stroke registry. Study end points included timeliness of intravenous thrombolysis and EVT, successful reperfusion, discharge destination, discharge mortality, and functional independence at discharge.

RESULTS:

Among 84 903 patients, 48 682 received EVT, of whom 73% were treated at CSCs, 22% at PSCs, and 4% at TSCs. The median annual EVT volume was 76 for CSCs, 55 for TSCs, and 32 for PSCs. Patient differences by center status included higher National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score, longer onset-to-arrival time, and higher transfer-in rates for CSCs, TSCs, and PSCs, respectively. In adjusted analyses, the likelihood of achieving the goal door-to-needle time was higher in CSCs compared with PSCs (odds ratio [OR], 1.39 [95% CI, 1.17–1.66]) and in TSCs compared with PSCs (OR, 1.45 [95% CI, 1.08–1.96]). Likewise, the odds of achieving the goal door-to-puncture time were higher in CSCs compared with PSCs (OR, 1.58 [95% CI, 1.13–2.21]). CSCs and TSCs also demonstrated better clinical efficacy outcomes compared with PSCs. The odds of discharge to home or rehabilitation were higher in CSCs compared with PSCs (OR, 1.18 [95% CI, 1.06–1.31]), whereas the odds of in-hospital mortality or discharge to hospice were lower in both CSCs compared with PSCs (OR, 0.87 [95% CI, 0.81–0.94]) and TSCs compared with PSCs (OR, 0.86 [95% CI, 0.75–0.98]). There were no significant differences in any of the quality-of-care metrics and clinical outcomes between TSCs and CSCs.

CONCLUSIONS:

In this study representing national US practice, CSCs and TSCs exceeded PSCs in key quality-of-care reperfusion metrics and outcomes, whereas TSCs and CSCs demonstrated a similar performance. With more than one-fifth of all EVT procedures during the study period conducted at PSCs, it may be desirable to explore national initiatives aimed at facilitating the elevation of eligible PSCs to a higher certification status.
Arterial Stiffness and Cardiorespiratory Fitness Impairment in the Community
Authors: Nayor Matthew , Gajjar Priya , Miller Patricia , Murthy Venkatesh L. , Shah Ravi V. , Houstis Nicholas E. , Velagaleti Raghava S. , Larson Martin G. , Vasan Ramachandran S. , Lewis Gregory D. , Mitchell Gary F.
Published: October 2023

Background

During exercise, a healthy arterial system facilitates increased blood flow and distributes it effectively to essential organs. Accordingly, we sought to understand how arterial stiffening might impair cardiorespiratory fitness in community‐dwelling individuals.

Methods and Results

Arterial tonometry and maximum effort cardiopulmonary exercise testing were performed on Framingham Heart Study participants (N=2898, age 54±9 years, 53% women, body mass index 28.1±5.3 kg/m
2
). We related 5 arterial stiffness measures (carotid‐femoral pulse wave velocity [CFPWV]: a measure of aortic wall stiffness; central pulse pressure, forward wave amplitude, characteristic impedance: measures of pressure pulsatility; and augmentation index: a measure of relative wave reflection) to multidimensional exercise responses using linear models adjusted for age, sex, resting heart rate, habitual physical activity, and clinical risk factors. Greater CFPWV, augmentation index, and characteristic impedance were associated with lower peak oxygen uptake (VO
2
; all
P
<0.0001). We observed consistency of associations of CFPWV with peak oxygen uptake across age, sex, and cardiovascular risk profile (interaction
P
>0.05). However, the CFPWV‐peak oxygen uptake relation was attenuated in individuals with obesity (
P
=0.002 for obesity*CFPWV interaction). Higher CPFWV, augmentation index, and characteristic impedance were also related to cardiopulmonary exercise testing measures reflecting adverse O
2
kinetics and lower stroke volume and peripheral O
2
extraction but not to ventilatory efficiency, a prognostic measure of right ventricular‐pulmonary vascular performance.

Conclusions

Our findings delineate relations of arterial stiffness and cardiorespiratory fitness in community‐dwelling individuals. Future studies are warranted to evaluate whether the physiological measures implicated here may represent potential targets for improving cardiorespiratory fitness in the general population.
Uniquely Creative Together
Authors: Redfern Lindi , Finestone Michelle
Published: October 2023

This paper discusses silent group Sandplay (SP) with early adolescents in circumstances of deprivation, neglect and trauma. SP offered in multiple layers of temenos in a children’s home environment provided a conducive context for inner processing. Considered from a Jungian perspective, SP revealed inner processing at work. Initial portrayals included threats, conflict and chaos, the need for protection and containment and revealed vulnerability. Later SP images and processes depicted progression and regression, uniquely creative together as well as containment and activation of movement. Silent group SP supported and facilitated transcendental and self encounters that included centring, integration, wholeness, numinous and newfound energy. The implications are potentially far-reaching in terms of the relative affordability, accessibility, efficiency and cultural suitability of this intervention that is not reliant on the verbal skills of the participants or the therapist and can be offered to several individuals simultaneously.
Doing and Knowing
Authors: Dennett Daniel
Published: October 2023

A naturalistic view of consciousness depends on a naturalistic view of agency, which draws a distinction between things just happening and things doing things. Agents depend on control, which depends on information used by agents to anticipate outcomes, so agents must situate themselves in time, with a distinction between past, present and future.
The Commercial Crisis in Makkah after the Prophet’s Hijra
Authors: Al Shuwaier Mohammed Abdullah
Published: October 2023

This article examines the economic effects of the Hijra of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) on the economy of Makkah until the conquest of Makkah in year ah 8/630 ce. Attention is given to the importance of commercial life in Makkan society from the fifth century ce, emphasizing the two mercantile journeys of the Makkan Quraysh to the north and the south, as well as the īlāf pacts between the Quraysh and the tribes whose lands their merchant caravans passed through. The important roles played by the tribes in facilitating Makkah commerce was studied, and examples are given of prominent Makkan merchants and Makkan markets before Islam. This is followed by a discussion of the reaction of Quraysh to the mission of the Prophet (pbuh), the Hijra, and the beginning and development of the commercial crisis in Makkah until the conquest of the city in ah 8/632 ce.
Coral reef-associated brachyuran fauna (Crustacea: Decapoda: Brachyura) from Angria Bank off the west coast of India
Authors: PADATE VINAY P. , PERIASAMY RENGAIYAN , RIVONKER CHANDRASHEKHER U. , INGOLE BABAN S.
Published: October 2023

Underwater sampling via SCUBA and grab at the Angria Bank coral reefs off the central west coast of India in January 2014 revealed 11 species of Brachyura. Seven species, namely, Thusaenys irami (Laurie, 1906), Tanaocheles bidentata (Nobili, 1901), Portunus convexus De Haan, 1835, Xiphonectes macrophthalmus (Rathbun, 1906), Thalamita gatavakensis Nobili, 1906, Serenius ceylonicus (Laurie, 1906), and Soliella flava (Rathbun, 1894) are reported for the first time from Indian waters. Furthermore, the geographical distribution of T. irami and S. ceylonicus is extended westwards of hitherto known ranges.
New data on Omotrachelus Kolbe, with description of five new species (Coleoptera; Curculionidae; Entiminae; Cneorhinini)
Authors: BOROVEC ROMAN
Published: October 2023

Five new Omotrachelus Kolbe, 1883 species are described and illustrated: Omotrachelus geiseri Borovec sp. nov. from Guinea and Mali, O. kaniai Borovec sp. nov. from Sierra Leone, O. longirostris Borovec sp. nov. from Cameroon, O. parallelus Borovec sp. nov. from Togo and Nigeria and O. thoracomimus Borovec sp. nov. from Democratic Republic of the Congo. A lectotype is designated for Omotrachelus angulatus Hustache, 1932. Omotrachelus bigranulatus (Hustache, 1931) is recorded from Cameroon for the first time, as well as O. puncticollis Faust, 1893 from Ivory Coast. The genus Omotrachelus is newly recorded from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Guinea, Mali and Sierra Leone.
Complete Remission of Renal Scarring in Follow-Up DMSA Renal Scintigraphy After Urinary Tract Infection
Authors: Hosokawa Takahiro , Uchiyama Mayuki
Published: October 2023

Our study aimed to investigate the association between the characteristics of patients/images and complete remission of renal scarring shown in the first chronic phase Technetium-99m dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA) renal scintigraphy images in children with urinary tract infection (UTI). Fifty children, who underwent the chronic phase of DMSA scintigraphy more than twice following UTI diagnosis and had renal scarring in the first chronic phase DMSA renal scintigraphy, were enrolled. They were classified into 2 groups: with and without complete remission of renal scarring on the second chronic phase DMSA renal scintigraphy. Renal scarring was classified into 3 grades based on severity per the image findings. Seven cases had complete remission from renal scarring. There were significant differences in age and severity. Renal scarring might be completely reversed in young children without severe findings on DMSA renal scintigraphy. Additional chronic phase examination may aid in follow-up completion and patients’ peace of mind.
Is the out-of-plane shear strength an independent property? A micromechanical perspective about a macromechanical question
Authors: Vignoli Lucas L
Published: October 2023

For unidirectional laminae, five elastic properties and six strengths are usually required. The goal of this paper is to evaluate if the out-of-plane shear strength is really an independent property or if it is somehow related to the transversal tensile and compressive strengths. The analytical VSPKc micromechanical model is used to derive closed-form relations. Fiber-matrix interface failure due to normal and shear interface tractions is evaluated considering a perfectly brittle behavior. The proposed model is compared with four analytical models from the literature and their estimations are verified against six experimental data. The relations proposed obtained the best results compared with the experimental data, with an average error equal to 8.84%, while the error using the second-ranked model is 17.40%, indicating with good reliability that the out-of-plane shear strength is not an independent property.
Deciphering the ‘cosmopolitan grid’: The production of space in diversifying heartland neighbourhoods of Singapore
Authors: Chan Felicity Hwee-Hwa , Low Hui Lee
Published: October 2023

Global capital and highly-skilled international labour are sought by cities for economic growth. Much research has been about Western cities, but less is known about how pro-growth developmental Asian countries, which have become key global hubs, organise their urban planning and policy efforts to gain global capital and skilled labour in their cities. In Singapore, the state is active in reshaping the city into a ‘cosmopolitan grid’ by planning and developing new urban amenity spaces that can attract human capital to fuel the desired urban growth, such as international schools, private housing options, and access to a global selection of goods and services. Oftentimes, the socio-cultural and socio-spatial changes at the neighbourhood level are seemingly ignored, despite the significance of the neighbourhood as a critical social space for the daily practice and formation of social relations in demographically diverse cities. Drawing on cognitive mapping interviews with foreign-born and native-born residents in two upper-middle income suburban neighbourhoods in Singapore, which are recognised as the heartlands of the native-born but have become popular with highly-skilled foreign-born families (namely Western expatriates) in the last decade, this article shows how the top-down rational production of cosmopolitan space by the state framed in a formation of the ‘cosmopolitan grid’ has played out and shaped the everyday production of social space among the native and foreign-born residents which determines the experience and opportunities for integration in this city-state.
Loneliness and Marital Quality as Predictors of Older Adults’ Insomnia Symptoms
Authors: Lawrence Carly , Marini Christina M.
Published: October 2023

The current study examined associations between marital quality, loneliness, and sleep within a nationally representative sample of older adults who participated in Wave 2 of the National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project (NSHAP). Participants ( N =  559) had a spouse or partner and completed a novel sleep module that included subjective (i.e., insomnia symptoms) and objective (i.e., wake after sleep onset;WASO) markers of sleep. Upon controlling for demographics and markers of mental and physical health, a distinct pattern of findings emerged for subjective versus objective markers of sleep. Regarding subjective sleep, older adults who experienced greater loneliness reported more insomnia symptoms, but only when spousal emotional support was low–moderate. Regarding objective sleep, older adults who reported more affectionate touch from their spouse experienced less WASO. Collectively, these findings identify specific aspects of marital quality that may have unique implications for partnered older adults’ subjective and objective sleep quality.
The Patterning of Interactive Organizational Identity Work
Authors: Fachin Fernando F. , Langley Ann
Published: October 2023

Our study delves into how organizational identity work unfolds during interpersonal interactions among members of an organization. Most existing research focuses on the isolated utterances of individual members or on organizational-level discourse. Analyzing directly the interrelationships between individuals allows us to offer a fresh viewpoint on the concept of “organizational identity work.” Based on a longitudinal case study of an open innovation organization from inception, we reveal multiple patterns of interactive organizational identity work emerging over time. Although Monologue is a one-sided pattern that involves the dominance of a single voice, Polyphony involves episodes of engaged collective conversation about identity issues without clear resolution. In Dialogue, we see interactions around critical issues accumulating towards temporary compromises on identity concerns, whereas the Deadlock pattern arises when compromises appear unattainable, potentially culminating in Rupture, as interactions around identity lead members to dissociate themselves from the organization. We show how the direct and indirect focus on organizational identity issues (i.e., whether identity is the focal topic of conversation, or a consideration brought up in making another decision), as well as the intensity of personal identity engagement among participants (i.e., the degree to which the conversation addresses speakers’ personal identity commitments), may be implicated in the emergence of these patterns. Moreover, we show how the patterns in turn enact multiplicity and singularity in expressions of organizational identity within situated interactions.
An Alaska tax story: Tribal sovereignty, settler colonialism, and the Indigenous tax space
Authors: Zahnd Maximilien
Published: October 2023

This article interrogates the extent to which tax laws are capable of empowering Indigenous peoples. It employs the concept of an Indigenous tax space, which places spatiality at the center of the settler colonial project. The socio-legal history of the Native Village of Kluti Kaah, an Ahtna tribe from southcentral Alaska, constitutes the main case study. In 1987, the tribe attempted to tax the Trans-Alaska Pipeline that passed through its traditional lands, creating an Indigenous tax space wherein tax law and discourse congregated to express and enact Indigenous agency. The article argues that the Indigenous tax space (1) provides a rare opportunity to reappraise the geographies of tax laws and policies and, more broadly, (2) allows us to explore settler colonialism’s previous and ongoing effects upon Indigenous territories.
“No-reflow” phenomenon in acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Zhang Yang , Jiang Miaowen , Gao Yuan , Zhao Wenbo , Wu Chuanjie , Li Chuanhui , Li Ming , Wu Di , Wang Wu , Ji Xunming
Published: October 2023

Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) afflicts millions of individuals worldwide. Despite the advancements in thrombolysis and thrombectomy facilitating proximal large artery recanalization, the resultant distal hypoperfusion, referred to “no-reflow” phenomenon, often impedes the neurological function restoration in patients. Over half a century of scientific inquiry has validated the existence of cerebral “no-reflow” in both animal models and human subjects. Furthermore, the correlation between “no-reflow” and adverse clinical outcomes underscores the necessity to address this phenomenon as a pivotal strategy for enhancing AIS prognoses. The underlying mechanisms of “no-reflow” are multifaceted, encompassing the formation of microemboli, microvascular compression and contraction. Moreover, a myriad of complex mechanisms warrant further investigation. Insights gleaned from mechanistic exploration have prompted advancements in “no-reflow” treatment, including microthrombosis therapy, which has demonstrated clinical efficacy in improving patient prognoses. The stagnation in current “no-reflow” diagnostic methods imposes limitations on the timely application of combined therapy on “no-reflow” post-recanalization. This narrative review will traverse the historical journey of the “no-reflow” phenomenon, delve into its underpinnings in AIS, and elucidate potential therapeutic and diagnostic strategies. Our aim is to equip readers with a swift comprehension of the “no-reflow” phenomenon and highlight critical points for future research endeavors.
Efficacy and safety of probiotic-supplemented bismuth quadruple therapy for the treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Yao Gaoyan , Fan Xiaoyuan , Lu Dewen
Published: October 2023

Objective

We performed a meta-analysis to determine whether the addition of probiotics to the bismuth quadruple therapy (BQT) for Helicobacter pylori would improve the incidence of eradication and reduce that of side effects.

Methods

Randomized controlled trials matching the inclusion criteria were collected from PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. A Mantel–Haenszel random-effects model was used to calculate pooled risk ratios (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the incidences of eradication rate, side effects as a whole, diarrhea, and other side effects.

Results

Ten studies were selected for inclusion in the meta-analysis. The pooled RRs for the eradication rates in intention-to-treat and per-protocol analyses of the probiotic group vs. the control group were 1.07 (95% CI: 1.02–1.11) and 1.04 (95% CI: 1.00–1.07), respectively. Probiotic supplementation reduced the incidences of side effects (RR 0.58, 95% CI: 0.37–0.91), diarrhea (RR 0.41, 95% CI: 0.25–0.67), and bitter taste (RR 0.63, 95% CI: 0.40–0.99).

Conclusions

The results of this meta-analysis support the use of probiotics in combination with BQT in the clinical management of patients with H. pylori infection.
Potential diagnostic value of multiple indicators combined with total prostate-specific antigen in prostate cancer
Authors: Zhang Qingxu , Li Haodong , Song Zhiguo , Kong Shaopeng , Zhao Sitao , Fan Siqi , Qin Fei , Ma Jianguo
Published: October 2023

Objective

We aimed to investigate the diagnostic value of different laboratory indicators in combination with total prostate-specific antigen (TPSA) for prostate cancer (PCa).

Methods

In this retrospective study, we selected 291 patients who underwent prostate biopsy. Patients were divided into the benign prostatic hyperplasia group and the PCa group. In both groups, patients were again divided into a group with TPSA 4.0–10.0 ng/mL and a group with TPSA >10.0 ng/mL. Clinical data including age, pre-puncture TPSA, free prostate-specific antigen (FPSA), and prostate volume (PV) were collected from all patients. We calculated the metrics PSA/PV (prostate-specific antigen density, PSAD), age/PV (AVR), age × PV/TPSA (PSA-AV), and (FPSA/TPSA)/PSAD [(F/T)/PSAD]). We plotted receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and calculated the area under the ROC curve (AUC).

Results

We found statistically significant differences in PV, PSAD, AVR, PSA-AV, and (F/T) PSAD for patients with TPSA 4.0–10.0 ng/mL and TPSA >10 ng/mL. We further plotted the ROC of individual or combined indices in different subgroups and calculated the AUC. We found that the diagnostic efficacy of the combined indices was higher with TPSA >10 ng/mL.

Conclusion

The combination of TPSA with multiple indicators may improve diagnostic accuracy for PCa.
Perioperative management of a patient with morbid obesity and severe cardiomyopathy: a case report and literature review
Authors: Xiang Bingbing , Liu Yiran , Li Chunyan , Yuan Feng
Published: October 2023

As the obesity epidemic continues to escalate, the need for bariatric surgery will increase. Patients with severe cardiomyopathy and heart failure have historically been considered at high risk for perioperative complications and thus excluded from bariatric surgery. We herein describe a patient with morbid obesity, severe cardiomyopathy, and heart failure who successfully and safely underwent bariatric surgery and achieved significant weight loss and overall cardiac function improvement 1 year later. Although data are sparse, there is certainly evidence to suggest that significant weight reduction may confer a mechanism of ventricular reverse remodeling and subsequent clinical improvement.
What proportion of people with migraine report postdromal symptoms? A systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies
Authors: Christensen Rune Häckert , Eigenbrodt Anna Kristina , Ashina Håkan , Steiner Timothy J. , Ashina Messoud
Published: October 2023

Background

Postdromal symptoms, following headache resolution, are said to constitute a distinct phase of the migraine attack. We question the evidence for this, with regard both to the nature of such symptoms and to how often they are reported to occur.

Methods

We searched the Pubmed and Embase databases for relevant articles from their inception until 25 May 2023. We included observational studies recording the proportions of participants with migraine reporting one or more postdromal symptoms or specific individual symptoms. Two reviewers independently screened studies for relevance (agreeing on those to be included), extracted data and assessed risk of bias. Data were analyzed using random-effects meta-analysis to establish the proportions of those with migraine reporting one or more postdromal symptoms, whether among the general population or patients in clinic-based samples.

Results

Large majorities of participants in either case reported postdromal symptoms: 97% in the only population-based study, and a mean of 86% (95% CI: 71–94%) in four clinic-based studies. The most commonly reported specific symptoms were fatigue (52%; 95% CI: 44–60%), concentration difficulties (35%; 95% CI: 14–65%) and mood changes (29%; 95% CI: 9–64%), none of these being clearly described. These estimates could not be considered reliable: they were subject to substantial study heterogeneity, none of the studies applied International Classification of Headache Disorders definitions of postdromal symptoms, and all had high risk of bias.

Conclusion

Postdromal symptoms in migraine appear to be very commonly reported, but the data are unreliable with regard both to their nature and to how often they occur. Further studies are needed to conclude that they constitute a distinct phase of migraine.
Leadership styles, organisational rewards and employees’ commitment in academic libraries
Authors: Adekoya Clement Ola , Guobiazor Isioma Rita
Published: October 2023

This study investigated leadership styles, organisational rewards and employees’ commitment in academic libraries in Nigeria. The descriptive study adopted a total enumeration sampling technique. All of the 218 staff of academic libraries in Ondo State were covered by the study; 153 (70.2%) responded to the study. The Organisational Commitment Questionnaire developed by Allen and Meyer was used for data collection. The study found that the extent of the leadership styles adopted by the heads of libraries was moderate. Heads of libraries and subordinate staff had conflicting opinions about the extent of employees’ commitment and organisational rewards given to employees. The study found a significant relationship between leadership styles and employee commitment, and between organisational rewards and employee commitment in academic libraries in Nigeria. It is recommended that academic libraries should be democratic in their leadership approach and reward employees fairly for their efforts so as to ensure maximum employee commitment.
Arthroscopic Repair of Large Subscapularis Tear Over the First Facet
Authors: Kim Su Cheol , Kim Hyun Gon , Park Jong Hun , Kim Jae Soo , Kim Ji In , Yoo Jae Chul
Published: October 2023

Background:

Long-term studies on arthroscopic repair of large subscapularis (SSC) tears over the first facet with or without supraspinatus (SSP) tear are limited.

Purpose:

To assess the structural and clinical outcomes of arthroscopic repair of large SSC tears using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and identify the factors related to SSC retear and poor outcomes.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

This study involved 109 patients (84.0 ± 36.2 months of follow-up) who underwent arthroscopic repair of large SSC tears (Yoo and Rhee classification type III [n = 81] or IV [n = 28]) between 2011 and 2019. All patients underwent MRI at 6.1 ± 0.4 months after surgery, and 79 of 109 patients (72.5%) were followed up over 7 years. Clinical outcomes (active range of motion, functional scores, and belly press strength) and final poor clinical outcomes (reoperation, osteoarthritic change, and poor clinical outcome) were recorded. SSP tear size, rotator cuff atrophy and fatty infiltration (Goutallier classification), SSC tendon integrity (intact, intermediate, definite tear), and SSP tendon integrity (Sugaya classification) were evaluated by MRI.

Results:

The overall SSC retear rate was 8.3% (9/109) (type III, 2/81 [2.5%]; type IV, 7/28 [25.0%]; P < .001). SSC Goutallier grade 4 showed a higher retear rate than grade 3 (7/33 [21.2%] vs 2/33 [6.1%]; P = .149). A large SSP tear (in millimeters) (odds ratio [OR], 1.5; P = .003), SSC Goutallier grade 4 (OR, 10.8; P = .047), and SSP Goutallier grade 3 or 4 (OR, 0.02; P = .013) were independent factors for SSC retear. Clinical outcomes, except for external rotation, were poorer in patients with SSC retear than in those without retear. Final poor clinical outcomes were observed in 27 of 79 patients (34.2%); female sex (OR, 7.7; P = .007), SSC retear (OR, 8.2; P = .025), and SSP retear (OR, 4.7; P = .031) were independent factors.

Conclusion:

Arthroscopic repair of large SSC tears has shown promising structural outcomes for type III tears but not type IV tears. SSC retear was affected by SSC atrophy, as well as SSP tear size and atrophy. Approximately one-third of the final poor clinical outcomes could be predicted, and SSC retear, SSP retear, and female sex were associated with long-term poor clinical outcomes, underscoring the importance of carefully selecting patients for arthroscopic repair of large SSC tears.
High Non-affordability of Diets and Malnutrition in Africa’s Drylands: Systems Analysis to Guide Action
Authors: Hobbs Nora , Hug Julia , de Pee Saskia
Published: October 2023

Background:

Africa’s drylands have unique food environments and persistently high rates of wasting and stunting. This article documents findings and experiences from Fill the Nutrient Gap (FNG) processes conducted in 7 Sub-Saharan African countries that include drylands.

Objective:

This study advocates for a comprehensive consideration of the specific food environments of drylands using a novel analytical framework and shares findings and best practices for improving food and nutrition security in these contexts.

Methods:

Three analyses are combined. Analysis 1 re-analyzes cost and non-affordability of nutrient-adequate diets indicators from FNGs by reclassifying areas as drylands and non-drylands. Analysis 2 uses malnutrition estimates in drylands and non-drylands and examines associations with non-affordability of nutrient-adequate diets. Analysis 3 synthesizes evidence from FNG processes to document how those indicators were used to engage stakeholders and inform nutrition policy and practice in drylands.

Results:

The nutrient-adequate diet of a 5-person household was 2.60 USD (41%) more expensive in drylands. A nutrient-adequate diet was not affordable to 71% of households in drylands, compared to 55% in non-drylands. Wasting and stunting prevalence and non-affordability of nutrient-adequate diets were simultaneously high in drylands.

Conclusion:

The article presents new evidence that contributes to elucidate specific characteristics of the food environment of Africa’s drylands and suggests a framework to improve on those factors systematically. The FNG is innovative in combining an analytical framework with multistakeholder review and dialogue, as well as modeling of possible strategies, to build consensus on possible transformation pathways to improve diets in drylands.
Preparation of polyurethane concrete and its novel application in bridge expansion joint anchorage zone
Authors: Wang Yanqi , Sun Quansheng , Liu Yancheng , Rim Chol , Kim Changsop
Published: October 2023

The frequent damage and repair of bridge expansion joint anchorage zone has caused a great burden to the bridge maintenance work. The objective of this study is to prepare a steel fiber reinforced polyurethane concrete (SFPUC) with balanced multi-properties of workability, compressive strength, and flexural strength for the application in bridge expansion joint anchorage zone. A four-factor, five-level orthogonal experimental design was carried out to investigate the effects of the binder-aggregate ratio ( BA), cement content ( C), fine-coarse aggregate ratio ( FC), and steel fiber dosing ( SF) on the workability, compressive strength, and flexural strength, respectively. The multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) method was used to transform the multi-response problem in the orthogonal experimental design into a single-response problem. Finally, a real engineering application and a finite element method were used to verify the feasibility of SFPUC for the expansion joint anchorage zone. The results show that the optimum proportion of SFPUC is BA (25%), C (20%), FC (20%), and SF (2.5%). The maximum principal stress in SFPUC anchorage zone is less than that in C50 steel fiber concrete anchorage zone under the same load. SFPUC is a highly promising material for bridge expansion joint anchorage zone repair.
Wire-EDM cutting strategies of WC-Co hardmetals: Effect of number of EDM pass on surface integrity
Authors: Toparli M. Burak
Published: October 2023

In this study, the effect of the number of wire-EDM passes on the surface integrity of WC-Co hardmetals was investigated. As-received doughnut-shaped WC-25 wt%Co samples were wire EDM’ed with one, two, three and five passes. The resulting surface conditions were investigated in terms of macroscopic and microscopic examinations. Surface roughness and hardness measurements were carried out. Detailed SEM investigations were coupled with EDS analyses. Based on the experimental findings, a detailed cutting strategy was offered for WC-Co hardmetals depending on the expectations of surface conditions, production route, cost and productivity. If there is at least one subsequent process including material removal, wire-EDM with one pass is suggested to decrease cost and increase productivity. However, heat-affected zone (HAZ), recast layer and lower surface hardness region should be removed at subsequent production steps. If there are no production steps to remove HAZ, recast layer and lower surface hardness region, the number of wire-EDM passes should be maximised.
Dissimilar welding of UNS S31803 and UNS S30400 tubes superiority and adverse in rotary friction welding
Authors: Madhappan Deepak Kumar , Palani Ponnusamy Kumaraswamy , Arulraj Munusamy
Published: October 2023

Solid-state welding provides a distinct state of the art to joining various metal tubes. In contrast to other types of welding, dissimilar joining by solid-state welding maintains the integrity of its joints. Dissimilar joints of UNS S31803 and UNS S30400 tubes were carried out using rotary friction welding process. Three combinations of tube joints fabricated were, ASS to ASS, DSS to DSS and ASS to DSS joint. The tensile tests showed dissimilar weld joint achieved the minimum strength of ASS similar joint. Fractography for similar and dissimilar tube joints showed a ductile pattern of fracture with dimples and voids in the dissimilar tube weld. Microstructure analysis showed that diffusion bond line for similar and dissimilar joints confirms the sound weld tube joints. Corrosion test showed that among three combinations, ASS to DSS dissimilar joint had lesser corrosion rate than ASS to ASS or DSS to DSS similar joints.
Paleoecological reconstruction during the Holocene in the Middle Branch of Bue Marino Cave (Sardinia, Italy)
Authors: Romano Elena , Sechi Daniele , Andreucci Stefano , Bergamin Luisa , D’Ambrosi Andrea , De Santis Chiara , Di Bella Letizia , Dinelli Enrico , Frezza Virgilio , Pascucci Vincenzo , Pierfranceschi Giancarlo , Provenzani Claudio
Published: October 2023

This study was conducted in the Middle Branch of Bue Marino Cave (Sardinia, Italy) to reconstruct paleoecological conditions during the Holocene through microfaunal proxies in seven surface sediment samples and a short sediment core (BMD-2018, 18 cm), all collected in 2018 and another core sampled in 2021 (BMD-2021, 28 cm). The first attempt at dating cave sediment through luminescence was conducted on BMD-2021; the derived age was 6.04 ± 0.47 ka at 18 cm depth. Although continuous sedimentation and constant rates are not probable in the cave, this indicates that the sedimentary record dates to the early times after the Holocene flooding of the cave by the sea. Benthic foraminifera and grain size were analyzed in all surface samples and core BMD-2018, while only benthic foraminifera were studied in BMD-2021. The recent foraminiferal assemblages, studied from an ecological point of view, were applied as modern analog to reconstruct the paleoecological conditions in sediment cores. Significant changes in the sedimentary environment were excluded; the two cores showed a similar foraminiferal turnover at a similar depth, from an older assemblage with prevailing indifferent Ammonia inflata to a younger one with prevailing opportunist Eggerelloides advena. This turnover was attributed to changes in the amount and/or quality of available nutrients. Based on these results, this event is likely related to possibly attributable to the effects of climate changes that occurred in the Holocene. However, more extensive studies are necessary to better understand the effects of the climatic/environmental events in the Late-Holocene in the caves. Although it represents a first attempt at paleoenvironmental reconstruction based on sediments from a Mediterranean marine cave, this study demonstrated that benthic foraminifera are refined paleoenvironmental proxies and that the integrated approach with the luminescence dating produces reliable results for studying the effects of global changes in these environments.
Legal Change and Legal Mobilisation: What Does Strategic Litigation Mean for Workers and Trade Unions?
Authors: Dukes Ruth , Kirk Eleanor
Published: October 2023

This article addresses the question of what strategic litigation means for workers and trade unions. Drawing on the existing literature and on a series of semi-structured interviews with union officials, lawyers with experience in representing them and other actors from across the labour movement, it explores how U.K. trade unions and actors within them understand and experience strategic litigation and legal mobilisation, what they seek to achieve, and what has been effective and ineffective for them. Uncovering both differences and commonalities between different unions, it suggests that the decision to devote union resources to – usually very costly – litigation is never taken lightly. Trade union approaches to strategic litigation involve neither a straightforward embrace of it nor an outright scepticism regarding its potential.