bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing the biosynthesis of taxadien-5α-yl-acetate in Escherichia coli by combinatorial metabolic engineering approaches
Authors: Xie Wen-Liang , Zhang Mei-Fang , Huang Zheng-Yu , Xu Man , Li Chun-Xiu , Xu Jian-He
Published: May 2024

Biosynthesis of paclitaxel (Taxol™) is a hot topic with extensive and durable interests for decades. However, it is severely hindered due to the very low titers of intermediates. In this study, Escherichia coli was employed to de novo synthesize a key intermediate of paclitaxel, taxadien-5α-yl-acetate (T5OAc). Plasmid-based pathway reconstruction and optimization were conducted for T5OAc production. The endogenous methylerythritol phosphate pathway was enhanced to increase the precursor supply. Three taxadien-5α-ol O-acetyltransferases were tested to obtain the best enzyme for the acetylation step. Metabolic burden was relieved to restore cell growth and promote production through optimizing the plasmid production system. In order to achieve metabolic balance, the biosynthesis pathway was regulated precisely by multivariate-modular metabolic engineering. Finally, in a 5-L bioreactor, the T5OAc titer was enhanced to reach 10.9 mg/L. This represents an approximately 272-fold increase in production compared to the original strain, marking the highest yield of T5OAc ever documented in E. coli, which is believed to be helpful for promoting the progress of paclitaxel biosynthesis.
The importance of data preconditioning strategies for envelope full-waveform inversion methods: Demonstration on marine seismic data
Authors: Xiong Kai , Lumley David , Zhou Wei
Published: May 2024

Envelope full-waveform inversion (EI) of seismic data has been proposed to overcome the cycle-skipping issue and recover long-wavelength velocity components for over a decade. However, we are aware of few published successful applications of EI on real data examples (except for some correlation- or phase-based EI methods). We implement EI methods (EI with [Formula: see text], EI with p = 1, and improved EI) on 2D marine seismic data and find that the amplitude mismatching between the modeled and observed data is a critical factor that prevents the successful application of EI methods to real data. To match the amplitude better, we include a data weighting preconditioner in the objective function of the EI methods. The preconditioner term acts as a weighting factor to compensate for the amplitude mismatch between the observed and modeled data. We develop a method for calculating the preconditioner term using the amplitude of the head waves as a reference. Furthermore, we derive the adjoint source and gradient of the EI using the data preconditioning method. We illustrate the successful application of EI methods with the data preconditioning method using the 2D marine seismic data example. In comparison to the EI methods without the data preconditioning method, those using data preconditioning yield much more geophysically reasonable velocity models and Kirchhoff image sections and common-image gathers.
Environmental Phenols and Growth in Infancy: The Infant Feeding and Early Development Study
Authors: Stevens Danielle R , Goldberg Mandy , Adgent Margaret , Chin Helen B , Baird Donna D , Stallings Virginia A , Sandler Dale P , Calafat Antonia M , Ford Eileen G , Zemel Babette S , Kelly Andrea , Umbach David M , Rogan Walter , Ferguson Kelly K
Published: May 2024

Context

Higher mean and rapid increases in body mass index (BMI) during infancy are associated with subsequent obesity and may be influenced by exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals such as phenols.

Objective

In a prospective US-based cohort conducted 2010-2014, we investigated associations between environmental phenol exposures and BMI in 199 infants.

Methods

We measured 7 urinary phenols at ages 6-8 and 12 weeks and assessed BMI z-score at up to 12 study visits between birth and 36 weeks. We examined individual and joint associations of averaged early infancy phenols with level of BMI z-score using mean differences (β [95% CI]) and with BMI z-score trajectories using relative risk ratios (RR [95% CI]).

Results

Benzophenone-3, methyl and propyl paraben, and all phenols jointly were positively associated with higher mean BMI z-score (0.07 [−0.05, 0.18], 0.10 [−0.08, 0.27], 0.08 [−0.09, 0.25], 0.17 [−0.08, 0.43], respectively). Relative to a stable trajectory, benzophenone-3, 2,4-dichlorophenol, 2,5-dichlorophenol, and all phenols jointly were positively associated with risk of a rapid increase trajectory (1.46 [0.89, 2.39], 1.33 [0.88, 2.01], 1.66 [1.03, 2.68], 1.41 [0.71, 2.84], respectively).

Conclusion

Early phenol exposure was associated with a higher mean and rapid increase in BMI z-score across infancy, signaling potential long-term cardiometabolic consequences of exposure.
Loading Enhances Glucose Uptake in Muscles, Bones, and Bone Marrow of Lower Extremities in Humans
Authors: Bellman Jakob , Sjöros Tanja , Hägg Daniel , Atencio Herre Erika , Hieta Janina , Eskola Olli , Laitinen Kirsi , Nuutila Pirjo , Jansson John-Olov , Jansson Per-Anders , Kalliokoski Kari , Roivainen Anne , Ohlsson Claes
Published: May 2024

Context

Increased standing time has been associated with improved health, but the underlying mechanism is unclear.

Objectives

We herein investigate if increased weight loading increases energy demand and thereby glucose uptake (GU) locally in bone and/or muscle in the lower extremities.

Methods

In this single-center clinical trial with a randomized crossover design (ClinicalTrials.gov ID, NCT05443620), we enrolled 10 men with body mass index between 30 and 35 kg/m2. Participants were treated with both high load (standing with weight vest weighing 11% of body weight) and no load (sitting) on the lower extremities. GU was measured using whole-body quantitative positron emission tomography/computed tomography imaging. The primary endpoint was the change in GU ratio between loaded bones (ie, femur and tibia) and nonloaded bones (ie, humerus).

Results

High load increased the GU ratio between lower and upper extremities in cortical diaphyseal bone (eg, femur/humerus ratio increased by 19%, P = .029), muscles (eg, m. quadriceps femoris/m. triceps brachii ratio increased by 28%, P = .014), and certain bone marrow regions (femur/humerus diaphyseal bone marrow region ratio increased by 17%, P = .041). Unexpectedly, we observed the highest GU in the bone marrow region of vertebral bodies, but its GU was not affected by high load.

Conclusion

Increased weight-bearing loading enhances GU in muscles, cortical bone, and bone marrow of the exposed lower extremities. This could be interpreted as increased local energy demand in bone and muscle caused by increased loading. The physiological importance of the increased local GU by static loading remains to be determined.
The Perverted Ancestry of the Antiheroine: Bad Mothers and Unruly Daughters in Sharp Objects and Mare of Easttown
Authors: Gardner Eleanore , Miller Alyson
Published: May 2024

While complex women in contemporary television are, as Svenja Hohenstein and Katharina Thalmann contend, “no longer a niche phenomenon,” the antiheroine continues to be defined by her relationship to motherhood, sexuality, and violence. This essay contrasts antiheroines Camille Preaker and Mare Sheehan from HBO's Sharp Objects and Mare of Easttown and argues that the antiheroine is premised on a disturbed mother-daughter dynamic that complexly manifests in two key opposing ways: in Sharp Objects, as the destruction of both self and other via a dynamic that is monstrous and devouring; and in Mare of Easttown, as a source of reconciliation and healing through a redemptive vision of the maternal. Both series confront the idea that the antiheroine's moral failings are a result of bad mothering, a familiar patriarchal trope that is simultaneously challenged and upheld in the narratives. Importantly, while they differ in their responses to essentialist patriarchal ideologies, Sharp Objects and Mare of Easttown position patriarchy as the true monster and suggest that control over the self can be gained through resisting the notions of the maternal taint.
Heterogeneous identity, stiffness and growth characterise the shoot apex of Arabidopsis stem cell mutants
Authors: Rambaud-Lavigne Léa , Chatterjee Aritra , Bovio Simone , Battu Virginie , Lavigne Quentin , Gundiah Namrata , Boudaoud Arezki , Das Pradeep
Published: May 2024

Stem cell homeostasis in the shoot apical meristem involves a core regulatory feedback loop between the signalling peptide CLAVATA3 (CLV3), produced in stem cells, and the transcription factor WUSCHEL, expressed in the underlying organising centre. clv3 mutant meristems display massive overgrowth, which is thought to be caused by stem cell overproliferation, although it is unknown how uncontrolled stem cell divisions lead to this altered morphology. Here, we reveal local buckling defects in mutant meristems, and use analytical models to show how mechanical properties and growth rates may contribute to the phenotype. Indeed, clv3 mutant meristems are mechanically more heterogeneous than the wild type, and also display regional growth heterogeneities. Furthermore, stereotypical wild-type meristem organisation, in which cells simultaneously express distinct fate markers, is lost in mutants. Finally, cells in mutant meristems are auxin responsive, suggesting that they are functionally distinguishable from wild-type stem cells. Thus, all benchmarks show that clv3 mutant meristem cells are different from wild-type stem cells, suggesting that overgrowth is caused by the disruption of a more complex regulatory framework that maintains distinct genetic and functional domains in the meristem.
Perfil da microbiota e padrões de resistência aos antimicrobianos em uroculturas de pacientes transplantados renais
Authors: Mendes Feitosa Dias Lucas , Pinto Bandeira Luciana , Luciano Pereira Maria Liliane , Faustino Lucielmo
Published: May 2024

Objetivo: analisar o perfil de micro-organismos presentes e resistência destes aos antimicrobianos em uroculturas de pacientes transplantados renais no período de 2021-2022. Métodos: trata-se de um estudo transversal com análise quantitativa dos dados de uroculturas positivas de pacientes transplantados renais, acompanhados no Hospital Geral de Fortaleza entre janeiro de 2021 a dezembro de 2022. Foi empregado um instrumento de pesquisa elaborado, contendo variáveis classificatórias, e os dados foram obtidos por meio de registros das uroculturas existentes no sistema de prontuário eletrônico utilizado pelo hospital. Resultados: das 534 uroculturas solicitadas, 36,7% apresentaram resultado positivo, sendo 60,4% de mulheres com idades entre 20 e 59 anos. A maioria dos casos foram desenvolvidos por pacientes que receberam acompanhamento ambulatorial (56,2%). Os micro-organismos isolados foram, predominantemente, enterobactérias (81,34%), com prevalência de E.coli (69,30%). Os perfis de sensibilidade antimicrobiana variaram, com a resistência da E.coli a antibióticos como ampicilina, ácido nalidíxico, norfloxacino e ciprofloxacino. Conclusões: essas descobertas fornecem informações importantes sobre métodos clínicos específicos, métodos preventivos e melhorias na qualidade de vida dos transplantados renais.
Unlocking Strength: The Powerful Impact of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) Supplementation on Resistance Training
Authors: Sikorski Piotr , Malinowski Piotr , Kopczyńska Urszula , Kopczyński Cezary , Gurdak Kinga , Dydyk Martyna , Dyrek Martyna , Błaszczak Ewa , Wójcik Jakub , Partyka Aleksandra
Published: May 2024

Withania somnifera, commonly known as ashwagandha, has gained popularity in recent years among individuals interested in healthy lifestyles, natural medicine, and sports. This review aims to summarize the current knowledge regarding the effects of ashwagandha supplementation on various aspects of physical performance, particularly in the context of resistance training. Studies have shown that ashwagandha can positively impact muscle strength, with significant increase of muscle force and power output. Additionally, it has demonstrated potential in modulating body composition, with reduction of body fat percentage noted in certain populations. However, results of studies on ashwagandha’s effect on muscle size remain inconclusive and may depend on various factors such as training status and individual responses. In terms of endurance, ashwagandha supplementation has been associated with improvement in maximal oxygen uptake, indicating enhanced aerobic capacity and delayed exhaustion during endurance activities. Furthermore, ashwagandha was shown to aid muscle recovery by reducing exercise-induced muscle damage and inflammatory response, potentially accelerating the muscle regeneration process. Ashwagandha may also influence hormone levels, such as testosterone and cortisol, with potential implications for muscle growth and recovery. However, further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms underlying these effects. Overall, ashwagandha supplementation appears to hold promise for enhancing physical performance and overall well-being. Further research is needed to elucidate optimal dosages, long-term safety, and potential interactions with other supplements or medications.
Tech-Enabled Financial Data Access, Retail Investors, and Gambling-Like Behavior in the Stock Market
Authors: Havakhor Taha , Rahman Mohammad Saifur , Zhang Tianjian , Zhu Chenqi
Published: May 2024

Advancements in technology have reduced information acquisition costs, creating an improved information environment for retail investors. Specifically, new technologies, such as application programming interface (API), deliver high-volume, institutional-like raw data directly to Main Street investors. Although greater availability of information can be beneficial, it may also exacerbate retail investors’ existing trading deficiencies. Exploiting the sudden shutdown of Yahoo! Finance API, the largest free API for retail investors, this study examines how access to tech-enabled raw financial data affects retail investment. We find that retail trading volumes in stocks favored by active retail investors dropped by 8.6%–10.5% within one month of the API shutdown. The remaining retail trades collectively became more predictive of future returns, suggesting less gambling-like behavior after the API shutdown. Moreover, our randomized controlled experiment affirms the underlying mechanism: tech-enabled access to high-volume historical price data increases individuals’ overconfidence, which further leads them to engage in excessive trading. The study reveals an unintended consequence of technology-led, wider data access for retail investors.

This paper was accepted by D. J. Wu, information systems.

Supplemental Material: The online appendix and data files are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2021.01379 .
Distributionally Robust Observable Strategic Queues
Authors: Wang Yijie , Prasad Madhushini Narayana , Hanasusanto Grani A. , Hasenbein John J.
Published: May 2024

This paper presents an extension of Naor’s analysis on the join-or-balk problem in observable M/M/1 queues. Although all other Markovian assumptions still hold, we explore this problem assuming uncertain arrival rates under the distributionally robust settings. We first study the problem with the classical moment ambiguity set, where the support, mean, and mean-absolute deviation of the underlying distribution are known. Next, we extend the model to the data-driven setting, where decision makers only have access to a finite set of samples. We develop three optimal joining threshold strategies from the perspectives of an individual customer, a social optimizer, and a revenue maximizer such that their respective worst-case expected benefit rates are maximized. Finally, we compare our findings with Naor’s original results and the traditional sample average approximation scheme.

Funding: This research was supported by the National Science Foundation [Grants 2342505 and 2343869].
Step 2 for the treatment of periodontal diseases: adjunctive therapies
Authors: Guo Kitty , Sharma Praveen
Published: May 2024

Step 2 of periodontal therapy primarily aims at the non-surgical, mechanical disruption of the subgingival biofilm and removal of plaque-retentive factors, allowing a shift from disease to health. Numerous therapeutic agents have been proposed as adjuncts to non-surgical periodontal therapy, generally through either aiding disruption of the dental plaque biofilm, or though alteration of the host immune response. This article reviews the British Society of Periodontology's implementation of the S3-level guidelines in relation to adjunctive therapies.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: Recommendation to use adjunctive therapies in the treatment of periodontitis requires careful consideration of the available evidence as well as the wider effects of the proposed therapy.
The perio–ortho interface: latest guidelines
Authors: Wadia Reena , Hasan Aliya , Preshaw Philip M , Johal Ama
Published: May 2024

This article focuses on the latest S3-level clinical practice guidelines, which allow for an evidence-based and patient-centred decision-making process for managing periodontitis patients who require orthodontics as part of their interdisciplinary care. Orthodontic management, including types of appliances, movement, use of adjuncts and timing are discussed. Management of periodontitis relapse, as well as the importance of successful maintenance and retention, are also highlighted.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: Severe periodontitis can result in pathological migration of teeth that may benefit from orthodontic therapy.
OUTCOME OF REVISION SURGERY FOR FAILED ANKLE ARTHROPLASTY: REVISION ARTHROPLASTY VERSUS ARTHRODESIS
Authors: Egglestone A. , Kakwani R. , Murty A.N. , Townshend D.
Published: May 2024

Introduction

When ankle arthroplasty fails the options are revision to arthrodesis or revision to arthroplasty. We report early outcomes of revision procedures for failed total replacement.

Methods

Retrospective review of prospectively collected data including post-operative complications, union, survivorship and PROMS scores to compare revision to arthrodesis and revision to arthroplasty.

Results

31 revision procedures (10 revision to arthrodesis and 21 revision to arthroplasty) were performed for failed primary ankle arthroplasty (30 patients) between January 2012 and June 2019. 23 males: 8 females, average age of 68. Indications for revisions were aseptic loosening (13), cysts/lysis (6), pain (5), periprosthetic infection (3), fracture (2), fibula erosion (1), polyethylene dislocation (1). Union rate following arthrodesis was 77.9% after primary revision procedure. Impaction bone grafting technique was utilised in seven patients with a union rate of 83%. Survivorship following revision to arthroplasty was 100% at two years; 87.5% at three years and 75% at four years Failed revision arthroplasty was revised to arthrodesis successfully. Median MOxFQ was 73.5 for the arthrodesis group versus 17 in the arthroplasty group (p=0.02). Median AOS was 87 for the arthrodesis group versus 12 for the arthroplasty group (p=0.04).

Discussion

This study demonstrated the potential advantages in the short term of revision arthroplasty over conversion to arthrodesis with statistically significant improvements in MOxFQ and AOS within the first two years following revision.
The Decline in Professional Organization Growth Has Accompanied the Decline of Physician Influence on Healthcare
Authors:   Phoenix Pulmonary and Critical Care Research and Education Foundation, Gilbert, AZ USA, Robbins Richard
Published: May 2024

No abstract available. Article truncated after 150 words. There is little doubt that most professional organizations are experiencing a failure to grow. For example, in the early 1950’s, about 75% of US physicians were American Medical Association (AMA) members (1). That percentage has steadily decreased over the years. In 2019 there were only 132,133 practicing physicians or about 12.1% of physicians who are AMA members (2). According to Kevin Campbell (2) there are many reasons for this decline including: • The AMA touts itself as speaking for all of us (physicians) -- but rarely listens to any of us -- they work to fill their own pockets with dollars from big pharma and government. • The AMA tends to have a narrow-minded political view and works to stifle any dissenting opinions (in an effort to continue to align with the government agencies that line the pockets of AMA executives with taxpayer money). • The AMA has collaborated with the government to …
Foot orientation and trajectory variability in locomotion: Effects of real-world terrain
Authors: Gibson Emma , Douglas Greg , Jeffries Katelyn , Delaurier Julianne , Chestnut Taylor , Charlton Jesse M.
Published: May 2024

Capturing human locomotion in nearly any environment or context is becoming increasingly feasible with wearable sensors, giving access to commonly encountered walking conditions. While important in expanding our understanding of locomotor biomechanics, these more variable environments present challenges to identify changes in data due to person-level factors among the varying environment-level factors. Our study examined foot-specific biomechanics while walking on terrain commonly encountered with the goal of understanding the extent to which these variables change due to terrain. We recruited healthy adults to walk at self-selected speeds on stairs, flat ground, and both shallow and steep sloped terrain. A pair of inertial measurement units were embedded in both shoes to capture foot biomechanics while walking. Foot orientation was calculated using a strapdown procedure and foot trajectory was determined by double integrating the linear acceleration. Stance time, swing time, cadence, sagittal and frontal orientations, stride length and width were extracted as discrete variables. These data were compared within-participant and across terrain conditions. The physical constraints of the stairs resulted in shorter stride lengths, less time spent in swing, toe-first foot contact, and higher variability during stair ascent specifically (p<0.05). Stride lengths increased when ascending compared to descending slopes, and the sagittal foot angle at initial contact was greatest in the steep slope descent condition (p<0.05). No differences were found between conditions for horizontal foot angle in midstance (p≥0.067). Our results show that walking on slopes creates differential changes in foot biomechanics depending on whether one is descending or ascending, and stairs require different biomechanics and gait timing than slopes or flat ground. This may be an important factor to consider when making comparisons of real-world walking bouts, as greater proportions of one terrain feature in a data set could create bias in the outcomes. Classifying terrain in unsupervised walking datasets would be helpful to avoid comparing metrics from different walking terrain scenarios.
Bone mineral density and related clinical and laboratory factors in peritoneal dialysis patients: Implications for bone health management
Authors: Tamimi Rami , Bdair Amjad , Shratih Ahmad , Abdalla Mazen , Sarsour Alaa , Hamdan Zakaria , Nazzal Zaher
Published: May 2024

Background

End-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients often experience accelerated bone turnover, leading to osteoporosis and osteopenia. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of osteoporosis in Peritoneal Dialysis (PD) patients using bone mineral density (BMD) measurements obtained through dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan and to explore any possible associations with clinical and biochemical factors.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, we enrolled 76 peritoneal dialysis patients from the dialysis center at An-Najah National University Hospital in Nablus, Palestine. We used the DEXA scan to measure BMD at the lumbar spine and hip, with values expressed as T-scores. We conducted a multivariate analysis to explore the relationship between BMD and clinical and biochemical parameters.

Results

Over half (52.6%) of the PD patients had osteoporosis, with a higher prevalence observed among patients with lower BMI (p<0.001). Higher alkaline phosphatase levels were found among osteoporotic patients compared to non-osteoporotic patients (p = 0.045). Vitamin D deficiency was also prevalent in this population, affecting 86.6% of patients. No significant correlation was found between 25 vitamin D levels and BMD. No significant correlation was found between Parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels and BMD.

Conclusion

A notable proportion of PD patients experience reduced BMD. Our study found no correlation between vitamin D levels and BMD, but it highlighted the significant vitamin D deficiency in this population. Furthermore, our analysis indicated a positive correlation between BMI and BMD, especially in the femoral neck area. This underscores the significance of addressing bone health in PD patients to mitigate the risk of fractures and improve their overall well-being.
Hematological and physiological responses in polo ponies with different field-play positions during low-goal polo matches
Authors: Sanigavatee Kanokpan , Poochipakorn Chanoknun , Huangsaksri Onjira , Wonghanchao Thita , Yalong Mona , Poungpuk Kanoknoot , Thanaudom Kemika , Chanda Metha
Published: May 2024

Strenuous exercise in traditional polo matches creates enormous stress on horses. Hematological and physiological measures may vary across different field-play positions. This study aimed to investigate the effort intensity and the impact of exertion on hematology and heart rate variability (HRV) in polo ponies with different positions. Thirty-two ponies, divided equally into eight teams, were studied. Each comprises forwards (number 1), midfielders (numbers 2 and 3), and defenders (number 4). Team pairs played the first chukka in four low-goal polo matches. Percent maximum heart rate (%HRmax), indicating ponies’ effort intensity, was classified into five zones, including zones 1 (<70%), 2 (70–80%), 3 (80–90%), 4 (90–95%) and 5 (>95%). Hematological and HRV parameters were determined before, immediately after, and at 30-minute intervals for 180 minutes after chukkas; HRV variables were also obtained during warm-up and exercise periods. Results indicated that the number two ponies spent more time in zone 4 (p < 0.05) but less in zone 2 (p < 0.01) than the number four ponies. Cortisol levels increased immediately and 30 minutes afterward (p < 0.0001 for both) and then returned to baseline 60–90 minutes after exertion. Other measures (Hct, Hb, RBC, WBC, neutrophils, and CK enzyme) increased immediately (p < 0.0001 for all) and lasted at least 180 minutes after exertion (p < 0.05–0.0001). HRV decreased during the chukka until approximately 90 minutes afterward (p < 0.05–0.0001). The stress index increased during the chukka and declined to baseline at 60 minutes in number 1–3 ponies but lasted 90 minutes in those at number four. Effort intensity distribution differed among field-play positions. Decreased HRV indicated reduced parasympathetic activity during exercise, extending to 90 minutes after exertion in polo ponies. Defenders seem to experience more stress than those in other positions.
Relationships between genomic dissipation and de novo SNP evolution
Authors: Plyler Zackery E. , McAtee Christopher W. , Hill Aubrey E. , Crowley Michael R. , Tindall Janice M. , Tindall Samuel R. , Joshi Disha , Sorscher Eric J.
Published: May 2024

Patterns of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in eukaryotic DNA are traditionally attributed to selective pressure, drift, identity descent, or related factors—without accounting for ways in which bias during de novo SNP formation, itself, might contribute. A functional and phenotypic analysis based on evolutionary resilience of DNA points to decreased numbers of non-synonymous SNPs in human and other genomes, with a predominant component of SNP depletion in the human gene pool caused by robust preferences during de novo SNP formation (rather than selective constraint). Ramifications of these findings are broad, belie a number of concepts regarding human evolution, and point to a novel interpretation of evolving DNA across diverse species.
Injection therapy for carpal tunnel syndrome: A systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Yang Fu-An , Wang Hsun-Yi , Kuo Tien-Yu , Peng Chih-Wei , Liou Tsan-Hon , Escorpizo Reuben , Chen Hung-Chou
Published: May 2024

Various injectants are available for the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome. This systematic review and network meta-analysis was conducted to investigate the effectiveness of different injection therapies in alleviating the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. Various databases were searched for relevant studies from inception until May 10, 2023. Eligible studies were identified using the patient (P), intervention (I), comparison (C), and outcomes (O) model, which involved (P) participants with carpal tunnel syndrome, (I) an intervention based on injection therapy, (C) the use of placebo or another injectant as a control treatment, and (O) the measurement of clinical and electrodiagnostic outcomes of interest. A total of 18 studies were included in the analysis. The network meta-analysis revealed that platelet-rich plasma is effective in the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome in terms of symptom and pain relief and functional improvement in both the short and long term, whereas steroids are effective only in the short term. Additionally, injections of dextrose solution may offer long-term pain relief as well as short- and long-term symptom alleviation and functional improvement. The study findings suggest that platelet-rich plasma should be used as the first-line treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome, with dextrose and steroids serving as alternative treatment options.
Factors associated with health-related quality of life among people living with HIV in South Korea: Tobit regression analysis
Authors: Kim Gwang Suk , Kim Layoung , Lee SangA , Shim Mi-So , Lee Youngjin , Baek Seoyoung
Published: May 2024

This study investigated health-related quality of life and identified factors affecting it among people with the HIV in South Korea. A total of 243 people living with HIV participated in this cross-sectional survey. Data were collected from five hospitals between November 2021 and August 2022 using structured online questionnaires. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Mann-Whitney U test, Kruskal-Wallis test, Spearman’s rho analysis, and Tobit regression analysis because a significant ceiling effect was observed for the dependent variable. The mean score for the health-related quality of life was 75.74 ± 16.48. The significant factors that positively influence the health-related quality of life were “employment” (B = 4.57, p = .035), “not participating in the self-help group” (B = 6.10, p = .004), “higher self-efficacy for managing symptoms” (B = 1.32, p = .036), “higher self-efficacy for getting support/help” (B = 0.95, p = .035), and “higher self-efficacy for managing fatigue” (B = 2.80, p < .001) in the Tobit regression analysis. The results suggest that interventions to increase self-efficacy should involve developing programs and policies for people living with HIV. There is a need for efforts to provide healthcare services linked to employment support, as well as to establish a social environment in which they can work without stigma. Further, self-help groups could be utilized as intervention channels.
Segmentation by motivations in religious tourism: A study of the Christ of Miracles Pilgrimage, Peru
Authors: Carvache-Franco Mauricio , Regalado-Pezúa Otto , Carvache-Franco Orly , Carvache-Franco Wilmer
Published: May 2024

The present study, focused on pilgrimages as part of religious tourism, aimed to achieve the following objectives: Identify the motivations of the demand for religious tourism focused on pilgrimages; analyze the segmentation of the demand; identify the relationship between demand segments with satisfaction and loyalty; and establish the sociodemographic aspects that characterize demand segments. The study was conducted during the Pilgrimage of the Christ of Miracles in Lima, Peru. The sample was taken on-site from 384 tourists. The statistical techniques used were factor analysis and the k-means clustering method. The results reveal five motivational dimensions: Religious Experience, Belief Experience, Escape, Touristic Experience, and Shopping. Three attendee segments were also identified: Believers, related to belief experience; Religious, related to religious experience; and Passive, tourists with low motivations. The Religious segment had the highest satisfaction and loyalty levels among these groups. Sociodemographic differences were also found in the demand segments. The findings will contribute to management guidelines for destination administrators with religious events and provide insights into academic literature.
Comprehensive evaluation of digital village development in the context of rural revitalization: A case study from Jiangxi Province of China
Authors: Liu Huixin , Zhang Yuqian , Wang Simeng , Zhao Hui
Published: May 2024

Digital rural construction is a key strategic direction to promote China’s rural revitalization and alleviate global climate problems. In order to put forward feasible suggestions for the subsequent development and ensure the smooth development of digital village construction, how to reflect the development level of the digital village through scientific and reasonable comprehensive evaluation has become an urgent problem to be solved. This paper establishes a comprehensive evaluation index system through the Delphi method and principal component analysis method, then assigns weights to the evaluation indicators based on the improved CRITIC-G1 method, and then grades the development level of digital villages according to the extension matter element method. Finally, taking Jiangxi Province in China as an example, the overall development level of digital villages in Jiangxi Province is evaluated from the provincial level according to the proposed method. And put forward the corresponding countermeasures and suggestions. Results: Firstly, the development level of digital villages in Jiangxi Province is good, and there is a trend of excellent development level. Secondly, from different aspects of digital rural development, the digitalization of infrastructure, services, economy, and green production in Jiangxi Province is at a good level, and the digitalization of life has reached an excellent level. Thirdly, from the perspective of development trends, the digitization of infrastructure has a progressive trend towards an excellent level of development, while the digitization of services, economy and green production has signs of development regression. According to the analysis results, the relevant countermeasures and suggestions are put forward from four aspects: talent, capital, governance system and development planning. Other regions can evaluate the development level of the digital village according to the evaluation model proposed in this paper so as to analyze the existing problems and put forward targeted solutions to promote the construction of the digital village.
Pérdida significativa como factor del alcoholismo
Authors: Ramírez Hernández Sandra Angélica , Ramos Luna Sanjuana De Jesús , Vázquez Salazar Mª Guadalupe , Torres Rubio María Elena , Guzmán Facundo Francisco Rafael
Published: May 2024

La relación de la pérdida significativa de un ser querido y el alcoholismo ha minimizado las implicaciones sobre mecanismos de afrontamientos para generar conductas saludables. Este artículo se basa en entrevistas semiestructuradas a profundidad en hombres de entre 30 y 70 años, con más de 10 años en Alcohólicos Anónimos del Estado de Tamaulipas, México. El objetivo fue reflexionar sobre los significados de la pérdida significativa de un ser querido y el alcoholismo. En la búsqueda del significado, se explica que un factor que lleva al alcoholismo no es una sola pérdida significativa de personas queridas, sino un cúmulo también de pérdidas materiales y no materiales, se reflejaron recursos limitados para afrontar las pérdidas, la relación entre la pérdida significativa con el alcoholismo fue mediado por dos principales aspectos, las creencias sobre los efectos que produce el consumo de alcohol como formas de escapar de la realidad y las influencia de la familia al inicio del consumo de alcohol. Por otra parte, la presencia de lo espiritual, la conciencia y las emociones que experimentan durante su proceso de duelo y alcoholismo, los llevó a identificar el problema de la adicción, que permitió influir en el proceso de rehabilitación.
Oaxaca: El viaje al más allá
Authors: Nance Douglas , Coca Silvia Mercedes
Published: May 2024

La función del ajuar funerario para el viaje al más allá forma parte esencial de los ritos y rituales funerarios de Oaxaca. La ideología de la iglesia es que una vez que estás muerta, el alma va directa al cielo, al purgatorio o al infierno. Los pueblos indígenas de Oaxaca tienen una visión mucho más compleja y matizada. La sombra, no el alma, sigue presente en estado liminal, observadora consciente. Hay pocos estudios sobre prácticas funerarias de rituales del ajuar funerario y la cosmovisión en regiones indígenas. El objetivo es describir prácticas funerarias en comunidades indígenas del sur de Oaxaca y su sentido simbólico. Se realizaron entrevistas en profundidad con 73 personas mayores indígenas quien describieran los objetos enterrados, sus propósitos, el viaje durante la novena y el final, la Tierra de los Muertos. El conocimiento de las creencias y prácticas representa un acercamiento a las estrategias cognitivas y emocionales de las comunidades. Nos permite adentrarnos en el conocimiento y respeto de su organización social y cosmovisión. La enseñanza y práctica no pueden ser adecuada sin una conciencia de las diversidades en las creencias sobre la muerte, el viaje al más allá y la Tierra de los Muertos.
Francisco Herrera Rodríguez (†) escribe una reseña del libro de José Siles: Historia Cultural de los Cuidados
Authors: Herrera-Rodríguez Francisco
Published: May 2024

Francisco Herrera Rodríguez escribe una reseña sobre el libro José Siles “Historia cultural de los cuidados”.
Investigation of a multicomponent mycotoxin detoxifying agent for aflatoxin B1 and ochratoxin A-induced blood profile in broiler chickens
Authors: Jannah Mutmainah Wardatul , Handayani Fitri , Lukiswanto Bambang Sektiari , Al Arif Mohammad Anam , Suwarno Suwarno , Purnobasuki Hery , Sugihartuti Rahmi , Utama Suzanita , Darodjah Siti , Lestari Tita Damayanti , Lamid Mirni , Jang Goo , Safitri Erma
Published: May 2024

Background and Aim: Mycotoxins such as aflatoxin B1 and ochratoxin A (OTA) are secondary metabolites in molds that grow in raw materials or commercial feed. This interaction has a synergistic effect on mortality, body weight, feed intake, embryo abnormalities, egg production, and lymphoid organ atrophy. This study was conducted to determine the effect of a mycotoxin detoxifier on the blood profile of broilers that were given feed contaminated with mycotoxin, such as the number of heterophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), and MCH concentration (MCHC).

Materials and Methods: A total of 20 day-old chicks (DOC) of Cobb broilers were given four treatments with five replicates. The number of chickens used in this research was determined using statistical calculations, and the data obtained was homogeneous so that the population was represented. Treatments included negative control with basal feed (C-), positive control with mycotoxins contamination (C+), treatment 1: Mycotoxins contamination and mycotoxin detoxification 1.1 g/kg (T1), and treatment 2: Mycotoxins contamination and mycotoxin detoxification 1.6 g/kg (T2). Mycotoxin contamination comprised 0.1 mg/kg aflatoxin B1 and 0.1 mg/kg OTA. The treatment period for chickens was 28 days, from 8 to 35 days. A battery cage was used in this study. Chickens were kept in a closed, ventilated room and the room temperature (27°C) was monitored during the treatment period.

Results: Based on the results of statistical data processing, a significant difference (p < 0.05) was observed between chickens fed mycotoxin-contaminated feed (C+) and chickens not fed mycotoxin-contaminated feed (C-) and chickens given 1.6 g/kg mycotoxin detoxification (T2). Mycotoxin detoxification at a dose of 1.6 g/kg had a significant (p < 0.05) effect on the heterophil, lymphocyte, and heterophil lymphocyte ratio, leukocyte, erythrocyte, and hemoglobin levels of the blood broiler in this experiment. On other parameters such as monocytes, MCH, and MCHC, treatment 2 at dose 1.6 g/kg was the best treatment, although there was no significant effect with C- and T1.

Conclusion: The administration of mycotoxin detoxifiers at a dose of 1.6 g/kg increased the number of heterophils and the ratio of heterophil lymphocytes, leukocytes, erythrocytes, and hemoglobin in broilers fed mycotoxin-contaminated feed.

Keywords: blood profile, broiler, healthy, mycotoxin detoxifier, mycotoxin.
Extraction and Characterization of oil from Avocado Pear Seed (Persea Americana) and African Pear Seed (Dacryodes Edulis)
Authors: Lemeh Nelson
Published: May 2024

The oils analyzed were extracted from the seed of Avocado pear (Persea Americana) purchased from Aba main market Abia state Nigeria and African pear (Dacryodes Edulis) purchased from Mile one market Port Harcourt Nigeria, using n-hexane as the solvent and the characterization of the oil was carried out. The iodine value for Avocado and African pear seed oil were 171.31g/100g and 81.35gI
2/100g, Peroxide value 3.52 (avocado seed oil) and 5.28 (Africa pear seed oil), Free fatty acid 29.92mg KOH/g and 11.22mg KOH/g Saponification value 250.28mg KOH/g (avocado seed oil) and 210.45 mg KOH/g (African pear seed oil), Acid value of 59.84mg KOH/g (avocado seed oil) and and 22.44mg KOH/g, Viscosity (27
oC) of 53mPa/s (avocado seed oil) and 42mPa/s (African pear seed oil), Specific gravity of 0.954 and 0.816 for avocado and African pear seed oil and the percentage oil yield for avocado pear seed oil is 9.1% and that of African pear seed 23.2%. This study has shown the physicio-chemical characterization of African and avocado pear seed oil. They can be used as an alternative resource for fat and oil. The fatty acid composition of the oil suggests that they have some industrial potential.
Special Issue on Securities Market: Governance, Instruments and Regulations for Sustainable Development
Authors: Panda Pradiptarathi , Smark Ciorstan
Published: May 2024

The National Institute of Securities Markets (NISM), along with the Systemic Risk Centre (SRC) at the London School of Economics (LSE), is organizing The Fourth Annual International Capital Markets Conference 2023 on "Securities Market: Governance, Instruments and Regulations for Sustainable Development" sponsored by State Bank of India.
Developing a Security Risk Assessment based Smart Beta Portfolio Model for Robo Advising
Authors: Vijaya C , Hati Koushik , Thenmozhi M
Published: May 2024

construction model for Robo Advising investors belonging to different risk categories. This model will cater to the Gen Z tech-savvy retail investors who have become more active and are interested in online investment platforms like Robo Advising. Our study differs from prior studies as it proposes a portfolio construction model for equity investors belonging to different risk categories while traditional approaches map debt portfolios to low risk investors and equity portfolios to high risk investors. Investors are generally risk-averse but prior studies have developed SB portfolios without considering their risk appetite. In this study, we assess the riskiness of stocks and then categorise them into different risk categories by mapping SB factors such as quality, value, alpha, momentum, etc. We further construct SB portfolios that minimise risk for each category of stocks to cater to investors belonging to low, moderate, high, as well as very high risk categories, using Machine Learning (ML) algorithms. Through a wide range of risk and return performance indicators, we provide evidence that our model offers higher returns at lower risk than human-managed portfolios. Our model proves to be more reliable and encourages Robo Advisors to offer SB portfolios catering to retail investors’ needs and their risk appetite. The study contributes to the evolving literature on Robo Advising, SB investing and to the debate on whether algorithms can replace human portfolio managers.
Dynamic Connectedness and Investment Strategies between Commodities and ESG Stocks: Evidence from India
Authors: Sharma Ishwar , Bumba Meera , Verma Bhawana , Verma Bharti
Published: May 2024

The study investigates the connectedness between commodities and ESG stocks of India using the extended joint connectedness approach. The study found a time-varying relationship between commodities and ESG stocks. It also discovered that there is a low spillover between the two. However, the total connectedness increased during the Russia-Ukraine war but remained low. The study found that crude oil and natural gas act as net transmitters, while ESG stocks and gold act as net receivers. ESG stocks are negatively connected with gold and have a low degree of positive correlation with crude oil and natural gas. Therefore, portfolio diversification opportunities exist between commodities and ESG stocks. The study exhibits that investors may derive significant benefits by adjusting their portfolios based on the optimum weights provided by the portfolio construction technique. The study provides valuable insights for portfolio managers, investors, and policymakers.
Does a Stewardship Code Improve the Firm Valuation and ESG Factors in India?
Authors: Pandey Amit , Sharma Anil Kumar
Published: May 2024

This is the first study from an emerging market to examine the effect of stewardship codes on the relationship between institutional investors' (IIs) ownership and firm valuation, along with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors3.. Using all S&P BSE listed non-financial firms data from financial years 2014-2015 to 2022-23, the results reveal a negative relationship between future firm value and II's ownership. Notably, stewardship code adoption does not affect Independent institutional investors' (IIIs)/ mutual fund (MF) ownership relationships with future firm valuation; however, Other institutional investors' (OIIs) negative relationship gets more profound. Difference in Difference (DID) analysis results confirm that the stewardship code positively affects IIs' and firm valuation relationship concerning firms with low promoter ownership than firms with high (more than 50%) ownership. However, the effect of the stewardship code changes throughout the different levels of Tobin Q. We find that an increasing IIs ownership enhances the likelihood of a positive change in ESG and its factors in which the environmental (E) factor contributes substantially . Further, a positive change in the governance score is associated with other institutional investors' (OIIs) ownership. Adopting the stewardship code strengthens the association between MF ownership and ESG factors.