bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sweden's quest for shelter: ‘Nonalignment' and NATO membership
Authors: Thorhallsson Baldur , Stude Vidal Thomas
Published: March 2024

This paper posits that, contrary to conventional wisdom, Sweden's decision to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) and end its official policy of ‘nonalignment’ is neither very surprising nor radical in nature. Utilising the shelter theory framework, we examine the Swedish case to shed a new light on the economic, societal and political shelter‐seeking policy choices that led to Stockholm's NATO application in May of 2022. The analysis finds that Sweden's established strategy of seeking shelter from Western powers eventually induced and facilitated close military cooperation with NATO—ultimately leading to accession on 7 March 2024. The decision to join the Alliance should, therefore, be understood as a culmination, building on a historically flexible approach to neutrality and previously established shelter arrangements that were deemed in 2022, after Russia's full‐scale invasion of Ukraine and subsequent developments in Finland, to be no longer sufficient in deterring or responding to new threat dynamics. The case indicates that shelter theory accurately captures the foreign policy strategy of a small neutral and later nonaligned state. However, analysing Sweden's move towards NATO within the given framework also presents an opportunity for theory development; specifically, the theory ought to more meticulously examine three small‐state shelter‐seeking features, namely, how societal and economic shelter relations may precede and, therefore, affect political shelter strategies (or vice versa), the role of ‘critical junctures’ in the theory; and finally, how small states may be affected by each other's shelter‐seeking strategies.
Impact of the early COVID‐19 pandemic on adult mental health‐related dispensed medications, hospitalizations and specialist outpatient visits in Norway and Sweden: Interrupted time series analysis
Authors: Moreno‐Martos David , Zhao Jing , Li Huiqi , Nyberg Fredrik , Bjørndal Ludvig Daae , Hajiebrahimi Mohammadhossein , Wettermark Björn , Aakjær Mia , Andersen Morten , Sessa Maurizio , Lupattelli Angela , Nordeng Hedvig , Morales Daniel R.
Published: March 2024

Aims

Norway and Sweden had different early pandemic responses that may have impacted mental health management. The aim was to assess the impact of the early COVID‐19 pandemic on mental health‐related care.

Methods

We used national registries in Norway and Sweden (1 January 2018–31 December 2020) to define 2 cohorts: (i) general adult population; and (ii) mental health adult population. Interrupted times series regression analyses evaluated step and slope changes compared to prepandemic levels for monthly rates of medications (antidepressants, antipsychotics, anxiolytics, hypnotics/sedatives, lithium, opioid analgesics, psychostimulants), hospitalizations (for anxiety, bipolar, depressive/mood, eating and schizophrenia/delusional disorders) and specialist outpatient visits.

Results

In Norway, immediate reductions occurred in the general population for medications (−12% antidepressants to −7% hypnotics/sedatives) except for antipsychotics; and hospitalizations (−33% anxiety disorders to −17% bipolar disorders). Increasing slope change occurred for all medications except psychostimulants (+1.1%/month hypnotics/sedatives to +1.7%/month antidepressants); and hospitalization for anxiety disorders (+5.5%/month), depressive/mood disorders (+1.7%/month) and schizophrenia/delusional disorders (+2%/month). In Sweden, immediate reductions occurred for antidepressants (−7%) and opioids (−10%) and depressive/mood disorder hospitalizations (−11%) only with increasing slope change in psychostimulant prescribing of (0.9%/month). In contrast to Norway, increasing slope changes occurred in specialist outpatient visits for depressive/mood disorders, eating disorders and schizophrenia/delusional disorders (+1.5, +1.9 and +2.3%/month, respectively). Similar changes occurred in the pre‐existing mental health cohorts.

Conclusion

Differences in early COVID‐19 policy response may have contributed to differences in adult mental healthcare provision in Norway and Sweden.
Application of CMV‐IVIg as prophylaxis against cytomegalovirus reactivation in allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation patients
Authors: Cui Jiaqi , Zhou Yuhang , Zhao Kui , Li Xudong , Zhang Hanyue , Zhang Xiangzhong , Sun Yanling , Long Bing
Published: March 2024

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) reactivation remains one of the major and life‐threatening complications after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo‐HSCT). Yet, there is still a lack of safe and effective ways to prevent CMV reactivation in allo‐HSCT patients. Here, we retrospectively analyzed a cohort of patients who underwent HSCT at our transplant center between 2018 and 2022 to evaluate the efficacy of prophylactic CMV‐specific intravenous immunoglobulin (CMV‐IVIg) against CMV reactivation. After Propensity Score Matching, the CMV reactivation rate was significantly decreased in the CMV‐IVIg group (HR, 2.952; 95% CI,1.492‐5.841; P = .002) compared with the control group. Additionally, the time duration of CMV reactivation (P = .001) and bacterial infection rate (P = .013) were significantly lower in the CMV‐IVIg group. Moreover, prophylactic CMV‐IVIg was more effective in CMV seropositive patients who received ATG as part of GVHD prevention (HR, 8.225; 95% CI,1.809‐37.39; P = .006). In conclusion, CMV‐IVIg is considered an effective and safe way to prevent CMV reactivation in HSCT recipients, which may be related to the acceleration of immune reconstitution in the early stage after transplantation.
Developmental plasticity and variability in the formation of egg‐spots, a pigmentation ornament in the cichlid Astatotilapia calliptera
Authors: Clark Bethan , Hickey Aaron , Marconi Aleksandra , Fischer Bettina , Elkin Joel , Mateus Rita , Santos M. Emília
Published: March 2024

Vertebrate pigmentation patterns are highly diverse, yet we have a limited understanding of how evolutionary changes to genetic, cellular, and developmental mechanisms generate variation. To address this, we examine the formation of a sexually‐selected male ornament exhibiting inter‐ and intraspecific variation, the egg‐spot pattern, consisting of circular yellow‐orange markings on the male anal fins of haplochromine cichlid fishes. We focus on Astatotilapia calliptera, the ancestor‐type species of the Malawi cichlid adaptive radiation of over 850 species. We identify a key role for iridophores in initializing egg‐spot aggregations composed of iridophore‐xanthophore associations. Despite adult sexual dimorphism, aggregations initially form in both males and females, with development only diverging between the sexes at later stages. Unexpectedly, we found that the timing of egg‐spot initialization is plastic. The earlier individuals are socially isolated, the earlier the aggregations form, with iridophores being the cell type that responds to changes to the social environment. Furthermore, we observe apparent competitive interactions between adjacent egg‐spot aggregations, which strongly suggests that egg‐spot patterning results mostly from cell‐autonomous cellular interactions. Together, these results demonstrate that A. calliptera egg‐spot development is an exciting model for investigating pigment pattern formation at the cellular level in a system with developmental plasticity, sexual dimorphism, and intraspecific variation. As A. calliptera represents the ancestral bauplan for egg‐spots, these findings provide a baseline for informed comparisons across the incredibly diverse Malawi cichlid radiation.
Exploring the human archaeome: its relevance for health and disease, and its complex interplay with the human immune system
Authors: Kuehnast Torben , Kumpitsch Christina , Mohammadzadeh Rokhsareh , Weichhart Thomas , Moissl‐Eichinger Christine , Heine Holger
Published: March 2024

This Review aims to coalesce existing knowledge on the human archaeome, a less‐studied yet critical non‐bacterial component of the human microbiome, with a focus on its interaction with the immune system. Despite a largely bacteria‐centric focus in microbiome research, archaea present unique challenges and opportunities for understanding human health. We examine the archaeal distribution across different human body sites, such as the lower gastrointestinal tract (LGT), upper aerodigestive tract (UAT), urogenital tract (UGT), and skin. Variability in archaeal composition exists between sites; methanogens dominate the LGT, while Nitrososphaeria are prevalent on the skin and UAT. Archaea have yet to be classified as pathogens but show associations with conditions such as refractory sinusitis and vaginosis. In the LGT, methanogenic archaea play critical metabolic roles by converting bacterial end‐products into methane, correlating with various health conditions, including obesity and certain cancers. Finally, this work looks at the complex interactions between archaea and the human immune system at the molecular level. Recent research has illuminated the roles of specific archaeal molecules, such as RNA and glycerolipids, in stimulating immune responses via innate immune receptors like Toll‐like receptor 8 (TLR8) and ‘C‐type lectin domain family 4 member E’ (CLEC4E; also known as MINCLE). Additionally, metabolic by‐products of archaea, specifically methane, have demonstrated immunomodulatory effects through anti‐inflammatory and anti‐oxidative pathways. Despite these advancements, the mechanistic underpinnings of how archaea influence immune activity remain a fertile area for further investigation.
Anti‐obesity potential of Polygonum minus Huds.: in vitro and in vivo evaluation
Authors: Arshad Zulika , Sofian‐Seng Noor‐Soffalina , Afzan Adlin , Misnan Norazlan Mohmad , Alias Norsyuhada , Kamal Nurkhalida , Mediani Ahmed , Rahman Hafeedza Abdul
Published: March 2024

Polygonum minus (PM) has a rich traditional usage for health benefits, yet its potential as a natural‐based solution for obesity management remains unexplored. This study evaluated the antioxidant properties, inhibition of pancreatic lipase and α‐glucosidase activities, and metabolite profiles of PM aerial extracts harvested at 8, 10, and 12 weeks using 1H NMR‐based metabolomics. PM harvested at 12 weeks exhibited significant antioxidant and enzyme inhibition activities. NMR metabolomics unveiled nine major metabolites correlated to the bioactivities of 12‐week PM. LC–MS/MS profiling enabled the identification of flavonoids and phenolic acids, with the majority having sulfate, gallate, and glycoside moieties. Notably, in vivo experiments demonstrated that rats treated with 200 mg kg−1 and 400 mg kg−1 PM exhibited significantly lower (P < 0.05) total body weight gain (39.03% and 52.59%, respectively) compared to negative control rats (69.95%), with the lower dose group also exhibiting reduced (P < 0.05) fasting blood glucose levels. This study highlights the potential of 12‐week PM as a natural‐based solution in obesity management.
Effects of grilling conditions on heterocyclic amines and quality attributes of grilled grass carp
Authors: Wang Bin , Gao Siqi , Chen Zhe , Xu Yanshun , Xia Wenshui
Published: March 2024

The effects of different grilling temperatures (220 °C, 250 °C, 280 °C, 310 °C) reaching the central temperature of 70 °C on heterocyclic amines (HAs) formation, moisture content, cooking loss, texture, colour, and sensory properties of grilled grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) were investigated. The grilling condition significantly (P < 0.05) affected cooking loss, moisture content, heterocyclic amines (HAs) formation, texture, colour and sensory properties. The results showed that 5 kinds of free and 9 kinds of protein‐bound heterocyclic amines were detected. The total amount of protein‐bound heterocyclic amines was much higher than that of the free state. Harman and Norharman, belonging to β‐carboline, constituted over 80% of the total content of heterocyclic amines. Considering the HAs formation and quality attributes, when the grilling condition was 280 °C for 10 min, the total content of HAs was the lowest, and the fish had moderate moisture content, firm texture, bright colour, and high sensory evaluation score.
Comparative transcriptome analysis explored the molecular mechanisms of a luxR‐type regulator regulating intracellular survival of Aeromonas hydrophila
Authors: Chen Weiqin , Mao Leilei , Yan Qingpi , Zhao Lingmin , Huang Lixing , Zhang Jiaonan , Qin Yingxue
Published: March 2024

Aeromonas hydrophila is not a traditional intracellular bacterium. However, previous studies revealed that pathogenic A. hydrophila B11 could temporarily survive for at least 24 h in fish phagocytes, and the regulation of intracellular survival in bacteria was associated with regulators of the LuxR‐type. The mechanisms of luxR08110 on the A. hydrophila's survival in macrophages were investigated using comprehensive transcriptome analysis and biological phenotype analysis in this study. The results showed that after luxR08110 was silenced, the intracellular survival ability of bacteria was significantly diminished. Comparative transcriptome analysis revealed that luxR08110 was a critical regulator of A. hydrophila, which regulated the expression of over 1200 genes, involving in bacterial flagellar assembly and chemotaxis, ribosome, sulphur metabolism, glycerolipid metabolism, and other mechanisms. Further studies confirmed that after the inhibition of expression of luxR08110, the motility, chemotaxis and adhesion of A. hydrophila significantly decreased. Moreover, compared with the wild‐type strain, the survival rates of silencing strain were all considerably reduced under both H2O2 and low pH stress conditions. According to both transcriptome analysis and phenotypic tests, the luxR08110 of A. hydrophila could act as global regulator in bacteria intracellular survival. This regulator regulated intracellular survival of A. hydrophila mainly through two ways. One way is to regulate bacterial flagellar synthesis and further affects the motility, chemotaxis and adhesion of bacteria. The other way is to regulate sulphur and glycerolipid metabolisms, thus affecting bacterial energy production and the ability to resist environmental stress.
Happy families? Insight into the coexistence between the curled octopus (Eledone cirrhosa) and common octopus (Octopus vulgaris) in waters around the UK
Authors: Barrett C. J. , Brazier A.
Published: March 2024

This case study investigated the co‐occurrence of the curled octopus (Eledone cirrhosa) and common octopus (Octopus vulgaris), in waters around the United Kingdom. The findings suggest that coexistence may be maintained because of the lack of competition for E. cirrhosa against the seemingly declining O. vulgaris populations, and that habitat and temporal partitioning are the likely mechanisms. It is contemplated whether species misidentification may an important factor in masking the accuracy of population dynamics of co‐occurring octopus species, and, as such, potential uncertainty in octopus coexistence and any future fishery management decisions. It is confidently suggested that, currently, only two octopus species are resident to UK waters. Now, further studies should include diet partitioning to determine whether diet partitioning is a mechanism for E. cirrhosa and O. vulgaris coexistence, and monitoring may make us understand their population dynamics.
The Extinction Rebellion and going beyond politics: can deliberation be the answer in climate mitigation?
Authors: Huttunen Janette
Published: March 2024

The United Nations (UN) has characterized the climate crisis as ‘the defining crisis of our time’ (United Nations 2023). To address the crisis in the 2020s, the so-called new climate movement has emerged to protest the inadequate climate action taken by political power holders and to demand real political action on climate issues. One of the movement’s branches is Extinction Rebellion, which has three central demands: demand for the government to ‘act now’ (to halt biodiversity loss and reduce greenhouse-gas emissions to net zero by 2025), to ‘tell the truth (by declaring climate emergency) and to ‘go beyond politics’ by introducing a Citizens Assembly on climate and environmental justice. The question, however, is how impactful these demands, and by extension, actions, can be to address the issue of the climate crisis. This Reflection takes a critical view of Extinction Rebellion’s third goal, going beyond politics, and discusses the potential issues with the impact of the proposed Climate Assembly.
Solution-mediated phase transition of protein crystals
Authors: Suzuki Yoshihisa , Ikeuchi Akiho , Taoka Koichiro , Sazaki Gen
Published: March 2024

A snapshot of the evidence of solution-mediated phase transition of glucose isomerase (GI) crystals more than 7 months after the start of an experiment was successfully captured. The transition to [Formula: see text] crystals started about 2 months after the first I222 crystals nucleated. To conduct such long-term experiments, we developed novel observation cells with liquid paraffin layers to prevent aqueous GI solutions from evaporation of water. Changes in the weights of cells were measured, and much less evaporation was successfully achieved by continuously adding liquid paraffin as a liquid sealant.
Stable positive unipolar resistive switching in chemical solution-deposited nanocrystalline spinel ferrite ZnFe2O4
Authors: un Nisa Shafqat , Rana Anwar Manzoor
Published: March 2024

The chemical solution-deposited zinc ferrite (ZFO; ZnFe2O4) RRAM devices on Pt/Ti/SiO2/Si substrate are being reported. Fabricated devices show the positive as well as negative unipolar switching memory properties. Thickness of ZFO thin films in Au/ZFO/Pt structure was varied to explore the resistive switching behavior. It is reported that forming voltage and resistance of the device increase by increasing the number of ZFO layers. Our results reveal that ZFO thin film deposited by eight times spin coating with a thickness of eight layers illustrates stable resistive switching with the most steady Set (2[Formula: see text]V) and Reset voltages (0.5[Formula: see text]V) as compared to the devices with two, four, and six layers. It also demonstrates the enhanced endurance of greater than 300 switching cycles and stable time-dependent resistance greater than 104[Formula: see text]s. The current transport mechanism is Ohmic at low-resistance state, while it leads to Schottky emission at high-resistance state. The possible switching mechanism is also discussed for the possible application of ZFO-based memory for nonvolatile RRAM devices.
Low voltage resistance switching characteristics of Cu/MoS2/Cu/ITO devices
Authors: Li Shichang , He Chaotao , Shu Haiyan , Chen Peng
Published: March 2024

The resistive switching behavior is observed in the Cu/MoS2/Cu/ITO structures, which has been deposited by magnetron sputtering. With the increase in MoS2 thickness, the resistive switching behavior is gradually weakened. The optimal device with a MoS2 thickness of 120[Formula: see text]nm has a lower Set voltage and Reset voltage, where Set voltage is 0.14–0.3[Formula: see text]V and Reset voltage is −0.24[Formula: see text]V to −0.08[Formula: see text]V. The device also has a resistive switching ratio of up to 105 high resistance state/low resistance state, a data retention time over 104[Formula: see text]s, and can endure more than 103 cycles. As the limiting current increases, the resistance switching (RS) characteristics of devices with MoS2 thickness of 200[Formula: see text]nm at both positive and negative biases are improved. There is no RS behavior in ITO/MoS2/ITO devices fabricated by the same method, which indicates that sulfur vacancies have little effect on the RS characteristics of Cu/MoS2/Cu/ITO devices. Moreover, since the migration barrier and diffusion activation energy of Cu in MoS2 are lower than those of sulfur vacancy, combined with the data fitting structure, it is shown that the RS behavior is formed because Cu ions control the connectivity and fracture of conductive filaments through the diffusion and migration of MoS2 layer.
Magnetized heat transfer visualization through computational modeling of third-grade fluid via exponentially stretching cylinder
Authors: Akbar Asia Ali , Hussain Muzammil , Awan Aziz Ullah , Nadeem Sohail , Alroobaea Roobaea , Fathima Dowlath , Ganie Abdul Hamid
Published: March 2024

The steady MHD boundary-layer axis-symmetric flow of a third-grade fluid passing through an exponentially expanded cylinder in the vicinity of a magnetic field is investigated in this study. The problem is mathematically modeled. Suitable similarity transformations are carried out to convert the partial differential equations into nonlinear ordinary differential equations. The Runge–Kutta fourth-order shooting technique is used to solve the transmuted system of nonlinear ODEs. Graphical representations of numerical findings are used to examine the effects of various physical factors on the velocity and temperature profiles. The influence of fluid variables on the velocity curve, such as third-grade parameters, second-grade parameters, and Reynolds number, is illustrated and explored. The skin-friction coefficient expression is computed and given. The widths of the velocity and momentum boundary layers are revealed to be increasing functions of the curvature parameter. It is found that the third-grade fluid has a higher velocity profile than Newtonian and second-grade fluids. Also, the stretched cylinders cause a more progressive shift in heat and mass pattern for flow than flat plates do.
Astrophysics-based transit search optimization heuristics for parameter estimation of multi-frequency sinusoidal signals
Authors: Malik Naveed Ahmed , Chang Ching-Lung , Chaudhary Naveed Ishtiaq , Raja Muhammad Asif Zahoor , Shu Chi-Min
Published: March 2024

This study investigates an astrophysics-based Transit search optimization algorithm (TSOA) for solving a challenging engineering problem. This innovative strategy uses the fundamentals of physics to improve the accuracy and efficacy of problem solving techniques. Harmonic distortions in power systems have become a massive challenge because of the nonlinear loads associated with the electrical power distribution system. Overheating of the equipment, motor failure, capacitor failure, and improper power metering are all issues caused by harmonic distortion. A new examination of the causes and consequences of these issues, as well as the status of hardware and software available for harmonic evaluation, is necessary in light of the unprecedented advancements in power electronic devices and their integration at all levels in the power and energy system. In order to estimate phase and amplitude simultaneously with a specified frequency, an objective function of power system harmonics is created. Keeping in mind the adverse effects of harmonics, parameter estimation is carried out under various conditions by taking different particle sizes and signal-to-noise ratios. TSOA proved its efficacy for both phase and amplitude parameters under different situations and precisely estimated the harmonics signal up to an accuracy of 1.1648E–15. Two harmonic signals were taken in this research work, and the best MSE values achieved are 9.748E–4, 8.287E–07, 6.157E–10, and 1.165E–15 for 30, 60, 90, and 150 dB noise, respectively, under case study 1 while varying the particle size from 50 to 450. The results for case study 2 proved to be best up to 7.373E–16, and no significant change occurred by increasing the generations above 500. The proposed study would be a step further in developing a more accurate and robust computing platform for robust estimation of harmonics arising in power and energy systems.
Indications for Dental Specialists for Treating Obstructive Sleep Apnea with Mandibular Advancement Devices: A Narrative Review
Authors: Lo Giudice Antonino , La Rosa Salvatore , Ronsivalle Vincenzo , Isola Gaetano , Cicciù Marco , Alessandri-Bonetti Giulio , Leonardi Rosalia
Published: March 2024

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) syndrome is characterized by repeated airway collapse during sleep. It determines cardiovascular, pulmonary, and neurocognitive consequences and is associated with several daytime and nighttime symptoms that influence the patient’s quality of life. The contribution of the dental specialist in the clinical management of OSA patients entails participating in the screening process as diagnostic sentinels and providing adequate treatment using mandibular advancement devices (MADs). Since the treatment of OSA requires a multidisciplinary approach, including different medical specialists, dentists should have a comprehensive understanding of medical and dental factors that influence the strategy and effectiveness of OSA treatment with MAD. Such expertise is crucial in determining the appropriate treatment indications and helps clinicians establish a consolidated position within the multidisciplinary OSA team. In this regard, this review summarizes the evidence of the clinical indications for MAD treatment and provides the dental specialist with helpful information about medical, functional, and other relevant factors that should be considered during diagnosis, treatment plan, and follow‐up stages. Information retrieved was organized and discussed, generating specific domains/queries oriented to the clinical management of OSA patients from the clinical perspective of dental specialists.
Myofascial Release for the Treatment of Tension-Type, Cervicogenic Headache or Migraine: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Lu Zhoupeng , Zou Hui , Zhao Peng , Wang Jialin , Wang Ruirui
Published: March 2024

Objective. To assess the effectiveness of myofascial release (MFR) techniques on the intensity of headache pain and associated disability in patients with tension-type headache (TTH), cervicogenic headache (CGH), or migraine. Design. A systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods. Eight databases were searched on September 15, 2023, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Embase, CNKI, and Wanfang Database. The risk of bias was evaluated utilizing the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 (RoB 2) tool. Results. Pooled results showed that MFR intervention significantly reduces pain intensity [SMD = −2.01, 95% CI (−2.98, −1.03), I2 = 90%, P<0.001] and improves disability [SMD = −1.3, 95% CI (−1.82, −0.79), I2 = 74%, P<0.001]. Subgroup analysis based on the type of headache revealed significant reductions in pain intensity for CGH [SMD = −2.01, 95% CI (−2.73, −1.29), I2 = 63%, P<0.001], TTH [SMD = −0.86, 95% CI (−1.52, −0.20), I2 = 50%, P=0.01] and migraine [SMD = −6.52, 95% CI (−8.15, −4.89), P<0.001] and in disability for CGH [SMD = −1.45, 95% CI (−2.07, −0.83), I2 = 0%, P<0.001]; TTH [SMD = −0.98, 95% CI (−1.32, −0.65), I2 = 0%, P<0.001] but not migraine [SMD = −2.44, 95% CI (−6.04, 1.16), I2 = 97%, P=0.18]. Conclusion. The meta-analysis results indicate that MFR intervention can significantly alleviate pain and disability in TTH and CGH. For migraine, however, the results were inconsistent, and there was only moderate quality evidence of disability improvement for TTH and CGH. In contrast, the quality of other evidence was low or very low.
The Formal Seed System of Maize in Ethiopia: Implications for Reducing the Yield Gap
Authors: Kalsa Karta K. , Kolech Semagn , Worku Mosisa , Abate Tsedeke , Teklewold Adefris
Published: March 2024

Smallholder farmers’ access to and use of quality seeds of improved varieties and hybrids is an integral component of sustainable maize production and the reduction of the yield gap in Ethiopia. Formal seed supply systems play a pivotal role in ensuring farmers’ access to good quality seed and increasing the productivity of maize. However, the contribution of the formal seed system to the increase in the average national maize yield in the country is not well documented. This paper specifically analyzes the formal seed supply systems and contributions of improved seed to maize productivity increase in Ethiopia. Secondary sources of information, including published and unpublished data, were used. Analysis of the seed value chain from research to commercial seed producers indicated that public and private maize hybrids dominate the formal seed system. Increased use of improved seed and associated management practices has contributed to the yield increase at the national level. For every 10,000 MT of additional maize-improved seed used by smallholder farmers, the national average maize yield increased by 400 kg per hectare (R sq. = 0.59). Hence, in addition to other yield-increasing technologies and extension support, ensuring the availability of improved seed to farmers can significantly contribute to reducing the maize yield gap between the national average yield and the average yield from on-farm demonstrations already attained by farmers in Ethiopia. Various policy interventions are suggested to improve the maize seed system performance and increase the supply of maize improved seeds.
Biomechanics of Central Incisor Endocrowns with Different Lengths and Milled Materials after Static and Vertical Loading: A Finite Element Study
Authors: M. S. Alqahtani Waleed , A. Yousief Salah , Tammam Raafat , M. Galal Rami , Brakat Ali , Mohamed El Sayed Hend , Kamal Ala’a , Noushad Mohammed , Zakaria Nassani Mohammad
Published: March 2024

Statement of Problem. The performance of central incisor endocrowns with varying crown heights and different computer‐aided designs and computer‐aided manufacturing materials is not clear. Purpose. The aim of this study was to compare and assess the stress distribution and failure possibility of endodontically treated central incisor protected with endocrowns with different heights, with various CAD–CAM blocks such as IPS e.max CAD, Katana Zirconia, and Zolid Fx Zirconia. Materials and Methods. A root canal‐treated central incisor (plastic model) restored with an endocrown was scanned with a laser scanner to prepare a control model with a CAD software and then transferred to an FEA software. Proposed crown heights were 2, 4, and 6 mm. The model that was duplicated and restored with CAD–CAM blocks, IPS e.max CAD, Katana Zirconia, and Zolid Fx Zirconia were tested as endocrown materials. Bone geometry was simplified to be two coaxial cylinders in all models. Stress distributions under 50 N axial and oblique (with 135° angle from the vertical plane) loading were analyzed. Each model was then subjected to two occlusal loading conditions—the lingual slope of the incisal edge and the junction between incisal and middle thirds. Eighteen runs and calculations were performed to determine the endocrown height and material effect. Results. The results showed a minor or negligible effect of changing the endocrown material. Increasing endocrown height was shown to reduce stresses and deformations on most of the model components (bone, gutta‐percha, periodontal ligament, and endocrown), except root and cement. Differences in deformations and stresses between the two models of 4 and 6 mm were relatively smaller (ranged between 1% and 30%) compared to those between the 2 and 4 mm models (ranged between 10% and 400%). Conclusions. The material used to fabricate endocrowns did not show considerable effect on the underlying structures. However, the endocrown design (2, 4, and 6 mm height) was shown to affect all components of the studied systems. Increasing endocrown height is recommended for bone, periodontal ligaments, and endocrown body, as it reduces stresses and deformations. On the other hand, it dramatically increases stresses on the root and cement layer. Smaller endocrown sizes represent an acceptable treatment option when there is a healthy periodontal state, while using larger sizes will be more suitable when there is a periodontal compromise with bone loss.
Putative Mechanism of Action of Trazodone-Related Oromandibular Dyskinesia
Authors: Schneider Alan L.
Published: March 2024

This is a case report of three cases of trazodone-induced buccal–lingual dyskinesias. Each case demonstrated the distinct pattern of the development of this dyskinesia after trazodone exposure for several months. All cases showed abrupt cessation of the movement disorder when the drug was discontinued. One of the three cases demonstrated a highly unusual presentation of an on/off pattern of buccal dyskinesia directly related to repetitive exposure and termination of the drug trazodone. Two of the three cases had no prior exposure to any dopamine blocking agents. One of the three had a distant exposure to a dopamine antagonist. As opposed to other antidepressants, trazodone has a mechanism of action which can account for both the development and treatment of dyskinetic movements. Its metabolite, M/chlorophenylpiperazine (M-CPP) is a 5HT2C agonist capable of causing abnormal oral-facial movements in rodent models. The presence of oromandibular dyskinetic movements can occur spontaneously with age, with trazodone being a potential predisposing factor. This article will discuss proposed mechanisms for trazodone’s action with an emphasis on case reports of dystonic movements.
Some New Families of Exact Solitary Wave Solutions for Pseudo-Parabolic Type Nonlinear Models
Authors: Hussain Akhtar , Ali Hassan , Usman M. , Zaman F. D. , Park Choonkil
Published: March 2024

The objective of the current study is to provide a variety of families of soliton solutions to pseudo-parabolic equations that arise in nonsteady flows, hydrostatics, and seepage of fluid through fissured material. We investigate a class of such equations, including the one-dimensional Oskolkov (1D OSK), the Benjamin-Bona-Mahony (BBM), and the Benjamin-Bona-Mahony-Peregrine-Burgers (BBMPB) equation. The Exp (-ϕξ)-expansion method is used for new hyperbolic, trigonometric, rational, exponential, and polynomial function-based solutions. These solutions of the pseudo-parabolic class of partial differential equations (PDEs) studied here are new and novel and have not been reported in the literature. These solutions depict the hydrodynamics of various soliton shapes that can be utilized to study the nature of traveling wave solutions of other nonlinear PDE’s.
Integrated Omics Reveal the Pathogenic Potential of Blastocystis sp. ST2
Authors: Cao Mengjuan , Zhang Shaojun , Nan Huizhu , Huang Jing , Zhang Chao , Sun Yuxin , Liu Liwen , Wang Yuping , Lu Xin , Ma Lei
Published: March 2024

Blastocystis sp. is a zoonotic unicellular eukaryote that is distributed worldwide. The pathogenicity of Blastocystis sp. has been debated over the years. In this study, mice were infected with Blastocystis sp. ST2 to assess the impact and underlying mechanisms on the host by integrating transcriptomics, metabolomics, and gut microbiomes. Transcriptomic analysis revealed significant differences in the expression of genes related to inflammatory cytokines, tumors, and neuropathic disease‐related factors in mice infected with the parasite. A total of 430 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in Blastocystis‐infected female mice, as compared with the control mice, and among these genes, the expression levels of 195 were upregulated (P  < 0.001), and that of 235 were downregulated (P  < 0.001). Similarly, there were different 478 DEGs in male mice, among which the expression levels of 122 genes (P  < 0.001) were upregulated, and that of 356 genes were downregulated (P  < 0.001). Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genome analysis showed that 22 pathways in females and 28 pathways in males were enriched. Metabolomics results showed obvious metabolite changes in all mice infected with the parasite. In females, 82 different metabolites were identified, among which the expression levels of 27 metabolites were upregulated, and that of 55 metabolites were downregulated. In males, 118 metabolites were identified, among which the expression levels of 24 metabolites were upregulated, and that of 94 metabolites were downregulated. Microbiome analysis showed differences in the richness of bacterial families in Blastocystis sp. ST2‐infected mice. LEfSe analysis showed differences in the abundance of bacterial families in female and male mice compared to the control groups. Multiomics analysis showed that the transcriptome, metabolome, and microbiome are interrelated. These results emphasize that Blastocystis sp. ST2 can negatively affect the host and may be a disease risk factor. The results provide insight into the mechanism of Blastocystis sp.–host interactions.
Investigating the Effects of Various Soil Amendments on Forages Production in the Field
Authors: Burezq Hana’a
Published: March 2024

An initial investigation into the utilization of recycled plant and animal residues as soil amendments (SAs), including compost, biochar, and soil conditioner, was conducted using alfalfa crops. This study evaluated the impact of SAs on alfalfa seed germination, resulting in an 87% germination rate for biochar, 82% for soil conditioner, and 82% for compost. In comparison, untreated seeds displayed a 78% germination rate. After successful germination, the SAs were employed to enhance soil health, with a focus on water conservation and increased forage yield. The study used sandy-textured soil with moderate alkalinity, very slight salinity, slight calcareousness, and high permeability. The germination trial confirmed that SAs usage did not hinder seed germination, even for salt-sensitive crops like alfalfa. Two field experiments were carried out in Al-Wafra, using different application rates of compost, biochar, and soil conditioner at 5, 7.5, and 10 tons per hectare. The results highlighted the positive impact of SAs application on increasing forage production, with varying degrees of enhancement, and confirmed a 40% reduction in water usage compared to treatment without SAs but under 100% irrigation (100% ETc). In conclusion, SAs show promising potential for local forages intensification and water conservation.
Study on the Earth‐Covered Magazine Models under the Internal Explosion
Authors: Gong Cheng , Qiu Yan-Yu , Long Zhi-Lin , Liu Lu , Xu Guan-Gan , Yang Ling-Ming
Published: March 2024

The use of earth‐covered magazines (ECMs) is increasingly prevalent in protective engineering due to their concealment and cost‐effectiveness. To explore the optimal thickness of earth covering for ECMs, scaled model tests were conducted under explosive charges equivalent to 30 kilograms of TNT. The resulting overpressure outside the model in the 180° direction was measured. Subsequently, computational analyses were conducted employing LS‐DYNA software to examine these experimental findings. The findings indicate that increasing the thickness of the rear soil can mitigate peak overpressure, delay the air shock wave’s arrival time, and reduce the impulse of the positive phase. The numerical calculations closely align with experimental data, with peak overpressure deviation remaining under 10%. The shock wave initially impacts the top of the model before reaching the rear, with soil scattering more pronounced in the 90° direction compared to the 180° direction. Furthermore, an analysis of soil energy absorption rate variation was conducted based on energy conservation principles. These results provide valuable insights for optimizing the design and construction of ECMs.
Price‐Volume Relationship in Bitcoin Futures ETF Market: An Information Perspective
Authors: Wang Xudong , Hui Xiaofeng
Published: March 2024

Bitcoin futures exchange‐traded funds (ETFs) are recent innovations in cryptocurrency investment. This article studies the price‐volume relationship in this market from an information perspective. We first propose effective mutual information which has better estimation accuracy to analyze the contemporaneous relationship. Using half‐hourly trading data of the world’s largest Bitcoin futures ETF, we find that trading volume changes and returns contain information about each other and are contemporaneously dependent. Then, we employ effective transfer entropy to examine the intertemporal relationship. The results show that there exists information transfer from volume changes to returns in most of our sample period, suggesting the presence of return predictability and market inefficiency. However, information transfer in the opposite direction occurs much less frequently, and the amount is typically smaller.
Segawa Syndrome, a Dramatic Response to Dopamine
Authors: Dhungel Omkar , Shrestha Amit , Sharma Pawan , Sapkota Nidesh , Paudel Raju
Published: March 2024

Segawa syndrome usually manifests as dystonia, disturbance of gait with fatigue, and may be confused with spasticity. Also known as dopamine‐responsive dystonia (DRD), it should be considered in any child who presents with paroxysmal or progressive hypertonia of unknown etiology, which responds dramatically to levodopa. It is a clinical diagnosis, but the level of pterins in cerebrospinal fluid and guanosine triphosphate cyclohydrolase‐1 (GTCH 1) gene mutation testing done by molecular genetic testing are confirmatory. Our case is a 45‐year female with a family history of similar illness expressed as autosomal recessive inheritance pattern. She had symptoms onset at an early age of 13 years with features of dystonia of predominantly lower limbs, hence the inability to maintain posture and walk. Dramatic improvement with levodopa but sudden deterioration to dystonia due to noncompliance was evident in our patient with troublesome features of concomitant adjustment disorder during presentation.
Inyección local de toxina botulínica para la prevención de cicatrices hipertróficas y queloides: un protocolo para una revisión panorámica
Authors: Silva Ruz Iván , Ramos Rojas José Tomás , Rada Giacaman Gabriel , Peña Alvarez Javiera , Novillo Meza Francisco
Published: March 2024

INTRODUCCIÓN: Las cicatrices hipertróficas (CH) y queloides (QU) corresponden al resultado de una cicatrización patológica en la piel, que afectan la calidad de vida de quienes las presentan. Su tratamiento considera diversas intervenciones, muchas de las cuales son de alto costo y/o poco predecibles. Entre ellas, la toxina botulínica (TB) podría tener un efecto a nivel preventivo, aunque los resúmenes de evidencia presentan resultados disímiles. Por esto, proponemos sintetizar la evidencia proveniente de revisiones sistemáticas (RS) y metaanálisis (MA) de ensayos clínicos aleatorizados (ECA) sobre los efectos de la inyección local de TB en la prevención de CH y QU en pacientes que recibieron o recibirán un trauma quirúrgico en la piel.
 MÉTODOS Y ANÁLISIS: Revisión panorámica siguiendo una adaptación de la Declaración PRISMA-P. Ejecutaremos búsquedas sensibles en L·OVE (Living OVerview of Evidence), un repositorio y plataforma de clasificación que utiliza la base de datos Epistemonikos. Realizaremos la selección de estudios, extracción de datos y evaluación de la calidad de las RS por duplicado. Compararemos las revisiones a través de matrices de evidencia, incluyendo las RS que aborden una pregunta similar y los ECA incluidos en estas. Estimaremos la superposición entre revisiones mediante el método de área cubierta y área cubierta corregida.
ÉTICA Y DIFUSIÓN: No se requiere aprobación ética. Esta revisión se publicará después de un proceso de revisión por pares. Sus resultados podrían ser utilizados por personal de salud para informar decisiones individuales y por tomadores de decisión de servicios de salud para guiar la asignación de recursos.
PROSPERO ID: CRD42023431093
Implementación de intervenciones que aborden las Experiencias Adversas en la Infancia en Atención Primaria: Una revisión exploratoria
Authors: Rodriguez Infante Trinidad Isabel
Published: March 2024

Introducción: La vivencia de experiencias adversas en la infancia (EAI) se asocia a mayor riesgo de presentar conductas de riesgo y enfermedades crónicas a largo plazo. A nivel mundial, se han comenzado a pesquisar y abordar en las atenciones de salud. Sin embargo, en Chile aún no existe una sugerencia a nivel nacional para incorporarlo. El fin de este artículo es proveer de información y recomendaciones a la práctica clínica.
Métodos: Se realizó una revisión exploratoria en PubMed, LILACS y PsycInfo usando el marco metodológico del Joanna Briggs Institute para identificar la literatura disponible sobre implementación de intervenciones en detección y abordaje de EAI dentro de un sistema de salud, con foco en atención infantil ambulatoria.
Resultados: Se encontraron 34 estudios atingentes al tema, los que muestran que implementar mecanismos de detección y abordaje de EAI es factible y aceptable, tanto para el personal de salud como para los usuarios, pero debe ser realizado dentro de un modelo de cuidado que incorpore a las familias y comunidad, además de trabajar con los equipos en capacitación, gestión del cambio, implementación y evaluación.
Conclusiones: La Atención Primaria de Salud (APS) resulta ser un lugar privilegiado para su implementación dada la cercanía y relación de confianza que se establece con las familias. Este estudio muestra que es posible implementar un modelo de detección y abordaje de EAI en APS, lo que resulta crucial dentro de su rol preventivo-promocional si se quiere generar un impacto en la salud de niños, niñas y adolescentes ahora y en el futuro.
Diagnóstico y tratamiento de abscesos hepáticos, a propósito de tres casos.
Authors: Cabrera Ubilla Carlos , Rojas de la Maza Antonieta , Carrasco Miranda Catalina , Cruz Choappa Rodrigo , Fuentes Navarrete Luis
Published: March 2024

El absceso hepático tiene una baja incidencia, pero alta mortalidad y su diagnóstico suele ser tardío dada la variabilidad de presentaciones clínicas. Presentamos tres casos, todos correspondientes a mujeres, dos de edad avanzada y una adulta joven con insulinoresistencia. Dos se manifestaron con síndrome febril con microbiología no precisada, mientras que el tercero con shock séptico secundario a colangitis, aislándose Escherichia Coli. Todos fueron manejados con antibioticoterapia y drenaje, uno vía laparoscópica y dos percutáneos, uno de estos asociado a CPRE. Se contrastan los datos con la bibliografía disponible, destacando la necesidad de investigaciones actualizadas en Chile.
Consideraciones para el uso de tramadol en dolor crónico no oncológico en APS
Authors: Martínez Moscoso Francia , León Sther Paula , Peñaloza Hidalgo Blanca , Céspedes Patricio
Published: March 2024

Introducción. Tramadol es un analgésico opioide usado frecuentemente para el manejo del dolor crónico no oncológico (DCNO). En Chile, es parte del arsenal farmacológico de los centros de atención primaria para el tratamiento de patologías como artrosis de cadera y rodilla. Es considerado seguro y efectivo, sin embargo, existen reportes de efectos adversos serios por polimorfismos hepáticos, interacciones farmacológicas, intoxicaciones, adicción y muerte. La dosis óptima de tramadol es paciente dependiente. Por esto, es necesario contar con orientaciones específicas para prescribir tramadol de manera segura y eficaz según las características de cada paciente. 
Materiales y Métodos. Se revisaron guías actualizadas, revisiones sistemáticas y guías de sociedades internacionales sobre el uso de opioides en DCNO y el uso de tramadol en patologías de DCNO como artrosis, lumbago crónico, dolor neuropático y fibromialgia.
Resultados. Tramadol no está indicado en el tratamiento de cuadros de dolor primario como fibromialgia y en DCNO secundario es un fármaco de segunda línea o no está recomendado. En dolor crónico neuropático (DCN) es segunda línea de tratamiento. En osteoartritis de cadera, rodilla y mano, se reporta efecto analgésico modesto. Sopesar riesgos versus beneficios en estos pacientes. En artritis reumatoide y lumbago crónico se desaconseja su uso.
Conclusiones. Tramadol es un medicamento seguro y efectivo si se indica, administra, supervisa y descontinúa adecuadamente. Sin embargo, puede asociarse a interacciones farmacológicas, efectos secundarios serios, conductas de abuso y usos ilícitos, por lo que es necesario conocer y manejar adecuadamente su farmacología e indicaciones.