bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design of Software Defined Radio (Sdr) Waveforms For Portabilityand Interoperability
Authors: Anantha Padmanabha  , Nalli N.S.S.R.K. Prasad
Published: December 2023

The way war is fought depends on the age. The war fighting tactics have been evolving along with the technology innovation. Accordingly, military community is transforming the battlefield of 21st century around Network-Centric Warfare (NCW). As such, the armed forces fight future wars that will be Network-centric. Anything from satellite to soldiers and everything in between whether manned ships, aircraft, ground vehicles, unmanned missiles, sensors and UAVs, secure wireless communications will be the core. The NCW demands voice, video and data capabilities with megabit bandwidths and security so that, seamless sharing of battle field information happens in a timely manner. Hardware intensive radio systems that are currently in use with many armed forces across the globe has limited utility, since parameters for each of the functional modules are fixed. Therefore, existing communication systems is being replaced with digital radio systems called as Software-Defined Radio (SDR). Once deployed, these radios need to be reconfigured periodically to meet the prevailing operational needs. Accordingly, wireless devices and network equipments are reconfigured, enhanced and upgraded through software updates that define the radio functionalities. In military terms it is called as "waveforms". SDR deployed in the battle field vary in size and capability with variety of form factors such as handheld, man pack, airborne, base station, maritime/ ship borne etc. However, the common requirement for all of them is the need to remain in network with portable and interoperable waveforms. It implies that, the waveforms can be used across all platforms with minimal modification with the same baseline architectures while satisfying the specific demands of the application.
A Novel Approach Towards Skill Development In Aerospace Industry
Authors: Saxena Subodh , Suresh  M. , Madhusudhan Reddy  K. , Mohan  S. , Goldwater R. , Thulasi S.N. , Priya Aakriti
Published: December 2023

The greatest asset of any organization is its manpower, especially in the technology driven sectors like Aerospace and Defence. The success of such organizations hinges on the continuous upgradation of employee skill sets to meet rapid advances in technology. A niche industry like HAL with zero-error policy, requires highly skilled and efficient workforce that can act as a force multiplier to enhance productivity, quality and customer satisfaction. Accordingly, an innovative training process has been developed to continuously upgrade the competence level of the employees (workmen cadre) in their respective roles bring them at par with global standards. The comprehensive training approach, thus developed through in-depth study, meticulous analysis, and multiple pilot runs, was further validated and standardised based on an exhaustive scrutiny of the outcome on various performance parameters over a significant period of time. Consequently, a highly successful and novel skill development process has evolved to exist within the organisation,which will be explained here.
Usage of Uavs/ Drones Based on Their Categorisation: A Review
Authors: Vohra D.S. , Garg P.K. , Ghosh  S.K.
Published: December 2023

Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV)/Drones earlier used in the military have now started their entry into each facet of life. Their entry has made them a subject of great relevance in the present technological era. The span of UAVs is, however, very broad due to various kinds of usages leading to different types of UAVs. This paper, therefore, presents all possible categorizations in respect of UAVs existing to date. The study of these categorizations in detail will lead everyone to study a Drone/ UAV for a specific field of usage as per requirement. This paper starts with the definition and description of a UAV in brief, followed by history and the underlying technology used for making different Drones. Subsequently, brief elucidation of different categorizations in respect of various UAVs expressed, followed by summary and conclusion.
Numerical Exploration of Transverse Sonic Jet In Hypersonic Cross-flow
Authors: Kishanlal Bhati Vivek , Chakraborty Debasis
Published: December 2023

At high altitudes, due to low air density, the control response of highly agile and manoeuvrable aerospace vehicles through conventional aerodynamic surfaces is rather slow and inadequate. The control demand of such vehicles can be met very effectively with high-pressure side jets positioned at different locations of the vehicle. Additionally, as none of the components of passive jet control intrudes in the flow path in a passive state, no additional drag is incurred. CFD methods are increasingly being used to characterize jet-controlled aerospace vehicles. Before using in the design exercise, CFD methods need to be validated against reliable experimental results to find its range of applications and error band. In this work, a recent experimental study of transverse sonic injection into Mach 5 hypersonic stream is numerically explored by solving three-dimensional Reynolds Averaged Navier Stokes (RANS) equations using a commercial CFD solver. The computed surface pressures show a reasonable match with experimental results for different momentum ratios of jet and free stream flows. The predictive capabilities of different turbulence models were assessed. The spreading and penetration characteristics of the injectant are analysed from the computed data. The computed penetration and spreading of the injectant depicts nearly linear dependence with the momentum ratio.
Enhanced Delamination Tolerance Levels by Hybridizing Carbon Laminates with Glass Plies: Parametric Study
Authors: N. Nambisan Savitha , Dattaguru B.
Published: December 2023

Laminated composites are extensively used in the aerospace industry and one of the key issues is delamination tolerance in these configurations during the operational phase. This paper demonstrates that hybridization is an effective strategy to achieve higher delamination tolerance sizes. For the above purpose, this paper presents a method to hybridize two different practical laminated carbon composite panels with glass fibers and also a parametric study to evaluate the influence of various hybrid laminate parameters on the delamination tolerance. Geometrical non-linear finite element analysis is carried out on three-dimensional models of delaminated non-hybrid and hybrid composite laminates. The mode I Strain Energy Release Rate (SERR) is estimated using Modified Virtual Crack Closure Integral (MVCCI). The SERR components are compared for the hybrid and the non-hybrid laminates. It is demonstrated that an appropriate hybridization with glass plies in between a few top and bottom carbon layers enhances delamination tolerance levels without significantly affecting the stiffness of the laminate.
Anthropometric Aspects of Cockpit Layout Design In Transport Aircraft
Authors: Archana Hebbar P. , A Pashilkar Abhay
Published: December 2023

This paper introduces a first principles based approach for the determination of minimum space required in the cockpit for accommodating a range of pilot population between 3 to 97 percentiles. The range of flight control deflections for a typical control column and rudder pedal arrangement and the polar vision aspects are considered in arriving at the results. Reachability in the cockpit to the primary display is also accounted. This approach is compared and contrasted with the cockpit layout applicable for 5-95 percentile American males as opposed to the Indian pilot population.
Non-uniform Compact Schemes for Parallel Computing
Authors: Sharma Nidhi
Published: December 2023

Here, the performance of a sixth order accurate Non-Uniform Compact Scheme (NUCS6) in a parallel framework using the domain decomposition method is analyzed. Traditional compact schemes are used for uniform grids. However, study of flows involving complicated geometries requires transformation of computational domain onto a uniform grid. Compact schemes developed for physical plane computations eliminate the need for such grid transformations. The first successful implementation of uniform compact schemes on a parallelized framework with Schwartz domain decomposition demonstrated the effect of overlap points in eliminating spurious signals at inter-processor boundaries Sengupta et al. [Jour. Comp. Phy. 220 (2007)]. This paper presents the performance of a high order non-uniform compact scheme (NUCS6) in parallel computations with the domain decomposition method. The results of the benchmark problem of flow in a 2D square lid-driven cavity at post-Hopf bifurcation Reynolds number of 10000 is presented to show how the width of overlap region affects the growth and evolution of gyrating polygonal vortex at the centre of the cavity.
Application of Six Equation Compressible Multifluid Model For the Numerical Simulation of Under-water Explosion
Authors: Rose Elizabeth Annie , Jayachandran T.
Published: December 2023

A two phase, six-equation compressible multifluid formulation, three-dimensional code is developed. In this paper, numerical simulation of underwater explosion near a free surface is presented as an application of the code developed. The flow structures and the processes are unsteady. Finite volume method is used for spatial discretization with HLLC scheme with second order accuracy for flux computation. Explicit, classical four stage Runge-Kutta method is used for temporal discretization. The main focus is to study the wave travel and capture the physics when a high-pressure high temperature gas explosion happens in water near to the free surface.
Computational Investigation of A Blended Wing Body at Low Speeds
Authors: Mohan Shuvendra , Kumar Priyank
Published: December 2023

Experiments and computations were made on a blended wing body at a free stream velocity of 18 m/s and at different AoA. Experiments consisted of flow visualizations using oil and tuft flow techniques. Computations were made using the commercial software ANSYS Fluent. Results indicated a highly complex flow behavior in the leeward side of the blended wing body. Reasonable agreement between experiments and computations was observed.
Vortex Breakdown Study and Developing a Pitch up Delay on A Generic Single Engine Delta Winged Fighter Using Along The Core Axis Jet Blowing
Authors: Acharya Avijeet , Rao Siddarth S.
Published: December 2023

No Abstract
Pathogen Spread Prediction in a Large Lecture Hall Using Cfd Modeling
Authors: Bhat Ganapathi , Chatterjee Avijit
Published: December 2023

Air flow inside a large lecture hall is simulated using CFD. The predicted flow field is used to estimate the residence time for any pathogen released from specific locations inside the domain. The approach developed herein is generic, and can be used for the assessment of any large confined spaces like lecture halls, theatres, cinema halls etc.for the spread of air-borne diseases.
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Authors: Poghpatyan Sona
Published: December 2023

This article deals with the theoretical and methodological aspects of cultural policy. In particular, the essence of culture and cultural policy, as well as the content of cultural policy as a special type of management activity are analyzed. The components, directions, institutions, implementation mechanisms and toolkit of cultural policy are considered. A special role of the state as a subject of cultural policy is emphasized.
TREATMENT OF PSYCHOTIC SYMPTOMS IN VASCULAR DEMENTIA
Authors: Karimova R.Z.
Published: December 2023

This review article summarizes the information published over the past 10 years on the treatment of non-cognitive impairment, which is the most common reason for patients with vascular dementia to seek psychiatric care and hospitalization. Timely treatment of these symptoms is very important for both the patient and the caregiver. Pathomorphosis in the clinic of vascular dementia has created a need for new methods of treatments. The purpose of this article is to gather up-to-date information about treatment of neuropsychiatric symptoms in vascular dementia.We believe that this review article will be one of the steps taken in this direction.
TREATMENT OF INTRACRANIAL ANEURYSMS WITH THE PIPELINE EMBOLIZATION DEVICE ONLY
Authors: Maus V. , Mpotsaris A. , Borggrefe J. , Abdullayev N. , Liebig T. , Dorn F. , Stavrinou P. , Guliyeva G. , Mammadov J. , Ismayilova K. , Chang De-Hua , Kabbasch C.
Published: December 2023

Currently, endovascular treatment of cerebral aneurysms is widespread. Purpose. The aim of this study was to evaluate the technical feasibility and rate of mid-term occlusion in aneurysms treated solely with the Pipeline Embolization Device (PED) in a German tertiary care university hospital. Materials and Methods. Forty-nine non-consecutive intracranial aneurysms underwent endovascular treatment using the PED exclusively between March 2011 and May 2017 at our institution. Primary endpoint was a favorable aneurysm occlusion defined as OKM C1-3 and D (O'Kelly Marotta Scale). Secondary endpoints were retreatment rate and delayed complications. Median follow-up was 200 days. Results. The mean aneurysm size was 7.1±5.3 mm. Forty-four aneurysms were located in the anterior circulation (90%). Ten aneurysms were ruptured (20%). Branching vessels from the sac were observed in 11 aneurysms (22%). Favorable obliteration immediately after PED placement was seen in 13/49 aneurysms (27%), of those nine aneurysms were completely occluded (18%). Angiographic and clinical follow-up was available for 45 cases (92%); 36/45 aneurysms (80%) were occluded completely and 40/45 aneurysms (89%) showed a favorable occlusion result. A branching vessel arising from the aneurysm sac was associated with incomplete occlusion (P<0.05). All electively treated patients had good outcome (mRS 0). Three aneurysms (6%) required additional treatment due to aneurysm recurrence. Conclusion. In our series, treatment of intracranial aneurysms with the PED was associated with favorable occlusion rates and low complication rates at mid-term follow-up. The presence of branching vessels arising from the aneurysms sac was predictive for an incomplete occlusion.
EPILEPSY IN BEHCET'S DISEASE
Authors: Magalov Sh.I. , Asadova U.A.
Published: December 2023

The etiology of epilepsy is associated with many exogenous and endogenous factors. One of the rare diseases, the pathophysiological mechanisms of which, affecting the nervous system, can guide the development of epilepsy, more often its symptomatic focal form, is Behcet's disease. Currently, the diagnosis is carried out based on the criteria developed by the International Study Group for Behcet's Disease (ISGBD). In Azerbaijan, 12.8% of cases were detected. The article presents a clinical case of epilepsy in a patient with Behcet's disease, which was identified during the period of the study conducted for the purpose of clinical and epidemiological study of epilepsy in one of the large settlements of Baku, in Mashtagi. Behcet's disease should be studied carefully. Perhaps, the results of further research will shed light on an urgent problem in epileptology, proving whether there is a connection between the development of epilepsy and ethnocultural characteristics of different populations.
A RARE CASE OF KCTD7 MUTATION
Authors: Mammadbayli A.K. , Aliyeva S.E. , Taghiyeva M.R.
Published: December 2023

Progressive myoclonus epilepsy (PME) is a rare condition caused by numerous genetic diseases. Pathogenic variants in KCTD7 have been reported in association with rare form of infantile neuronal ceroid-lipofuscinosis, autosomal recessive progressive myoclonic epilepsy-3 with or without intracellular inclusions. We report about a 4 years old girl with focal epilepsy, mild intellectual disability, developmental delay, muscle weakness, walking difficulties, dysphagia, nystagmus, episodic ataxia, dystonia, and hypotonia. The first symptoms began at 18 months with focal epileptic seizure. Genetic testing reveals homozygous KCTD7 c.295C>T, p.(Arg99*) mutation.
Examining the determinants of the intention of using E-learning among university students in China During COVID-19
Authors: Muhammad Naveed Jabbar
Published: December 2023

The main objective of the study is to examine the intention of using E-learning among university students in China. The factors such as computer experience, personal innovativeness, computer self-efficacy, and performance expectations on the impact on the intention of using e-learning during COVID-19. PLS-SEM approach is used for analyzing the research models of complex nature, where there are numerous observed and unobserved variables in the model the response rate came out 77%, which is considered more than sufficient for further analysis. An empirical study based on e-learning was conducted in a developing country. It was found by the researcher that e-learning acceptance among the users is significantly influenced by CSE. The experience of using a computer has been regarded by previous studies as a strong determinant of attitudes toward using computers. E-learning systems are used by individuals when it is perceived that it will improve their effectiveness and productivity in learning education during COVID-19. Their intentions to use e-learning systems are influenced by these beliefs. As the high rate of attrition has become a key issue in e-learning, the main concern related to online teaching and learning is motivation. Their relationship results in improved use of the e-learning system. A computer self-efficacy construct was adapted in a study based on a specific implementation of e-learning. Computer self-efficacy was defined as the level with which people feel confidence in their skills for using online technology of learning and achievement of course-related tasks. The study has highlighted an important issue related to personal innovativeness, computer experience, and personal self-efficacy among students in China during COVID-19.
Conceptualizing the Determinants of Chinese circular economy: Environmental Supply Chain Cooperation as a Moderator
Authors: Mohamad Helmi bin Hidthiir
Published: December 2023

With an emphasis on the moderating function that environmental supply chain cooperation plays, the goal of this study is to provide a complete conceptual framework of the causes of the circular economy in China. An approach that is based on a literature review is used to discover and summarize the various research that have been conducted on the subject. After that, this information is combined into the building of a conceptual model in order to highlight the primary elements that influence China's acceptance and execution of circular economy methods. Elements that are institutional, technological, economic, and social have been combined into the model that has been provided. Additionally, this research investigates the role that collaboration within environmental supply chains can play as a moderating factor in the relationship between the previously mentioned components and the Chinese circular economy. According to the findings, environmental supply chain cooperation plays a crucial role in supporting the adoption and implementation of circular economy practices in China by encouraging collaboration and coordination among a wide variety of stakeholders. This helps to ensure that circular economy practices are successfully adopted and implemented. In order to reach this goal, it is necessary to fortify the partnerships that exist within the environmental supply chain. Overall, the study offers a solid theoretical foundation for further investigation, as well as a set of practical implications for Chinese policymakers and practitioners who are working to advance the circular economy agenda.
PEMBERDAYAAN PETANI RUMPUT LAUT DALAM PENGEMBANGAN EKOWISATA DI DESA LEMBONGAN KECAMATAN NUSA PENIDA KABUPATEN KLUNGKUNG
Authors: Agus Suwandana I Kadek
Published: December 2023

Less understanding of tourism culminate with the helplessness ofseaweed farmers in facing tourism development. To determine the plan in achievinga solution, then it is divided into three issues such as: (1) How does the shape androle of each stakeholder in the empowerment of seaweed farmers and developmentof existing ecotourism. (2) What benefits are obtained by seaweed farmers in thedevelopment of ecotourism .Empowerment theory, the active community andstructural-functional theory were used to dissect the problem. The qualitativedescriptive method of data collection techniques through observation, interview, andliterature reviews. The data collected were analyzed by descriptive qualitative andtransforming the raw data in the form of fixed data, easy to understand, interpreting,and presenting the information presented as principal study. The results showedthe empowerment of seaweed farmers in the village of Lembongan requires therole of all relevant stakeholders through a partnership which is formed to provideeconomic and social benefits for the community. The seaweed farmers have to begiven training in managerial, financial aid and supporting infrastructures. Afterthe independence of seaweed farming community has been considered adequate,the system of partnerships and mentoring by stakeholders gradually reduced. Thisresearch is also expected to be used as input for the government, tourism industry,and the seaweed farmers in the development of ecotourism, as well as for academicsand practitioners are expected to conduct further research.
Strategy Analysis for Increasing Advertisement Tax Revenue in the Era of Digitalization at the Jakarta Regional Revenue Agency
Authors: Sari Ridha Fitri Nurita
Published: December 2023

The phenomenon of this research is the transition from the use of billboards to digital billboards, resulting in a decrease in billboard tax revenue. Because there are many companies that promote their goods or put up billboards digitally. This study aims to determine what strategies are used by the Regional Revenue Agency to increase advertisement tax revenue in the digitalization era. The research method used is descriptive qualitative research. Sources of data consist of secondary data in the form of interviews and primary data in the form of documentation data. The results of this study indicate: (1) Bapenda and UP3D continue to be more active in terms of providing appeals to taxpayers to report and pay their reclamation tax when due. (2) LED billboards are billboards with a substantial increase in advertisement tax revenue compared to conventional billboards. (3) There are still many potentials that can be subject to advertisement tax to increase advertisement tax revenue. Suggestions in this study are (1) Bapenda should be more active in viewing advertisements that do not have a license but have been published. (2) Must provide more in-depth socialization to taxpayers so that taxpayers continue to report their published reclamation tax. (3) Providing firmer assertiveness or sanctions to taxpayers who do not fulfill their obligations or administrators of illegal advertisements in order to be more deterred?
Ansvarshierarki i lægemiddelomsorgen på plejehjem
Authors: Frantzen Sara Elgaard , Gjødsbøl Iben Mundbjerg , Dam Mie Seest
Published: December 2023

Polyfarmaci—indtagelse af flere lægemidler samtidig—er et velkendt fænomen blandt ældre, som hovedsageligt er blevet undersøgt kvantitativt med henblik på at definere, hvor mange lægemidler der er for mange. I denne artikel ser vi ud over de numeriske definitioner af polyfarmaci for i stedet at udforske de konkrete praksisser, som lægemidlerne indgår i. Gennem etnografisk feltarbejde på to dansk plejehjem undersøger vi, hvordan lægemidler får aktiv indflydelse på plejehjemsbeboeres hverdag og på den omsorg, som plejepersonalet yder. Inspireret af Science and Technology Studies analyserer vi, hvordan polyfarmaci udspiller sig og erfares i praksis ved at betragte lægemidler som en omsorgsteknologi. Hvor idealet om ’rationel farmakoterapi’ foreskriver, at den rigtige patient får den rigtige medicin til den rigtige tid, viser vores empiriske fund, at plejepersonalets stræben efter dette ideal begrænser mulighederne for at inddrage beboerne i deres egen behandling. Vi demonstrerer, hvordan fokus på korrekt og sikker lægemiddelhåndtering skaber ansvarshierarkier blandt plejepersonalet. Disse hierarkier betyder, at de som er tættest på beboerne, har det største ansvar men står uden beføjelser til at handle selvstændigt eller træffe beslutninger om beboernes lægemiddelbehandling. Vi argumenterer for, at ansvarshierarkierne fragmenterer omsorgsarbejdet og udgrænser beboernes oplevelse af eget lægemiddelindtag. Med begrebet ’lægemiddelempati’ præsenterer og diskuterer vi en tilgang til lægemiddelhåndtering, som ikke tager plejepersonalets faglighed og beboernes erfaringer for givet. Derimod fordrer lægemiddelempati anerkendelse på tværs af fagprofessionelle ansvarshierarkier og at inddragelse af lægemiddelbrugeren betragtes som et værdifuldt arbejde i sig selv, der kræver prioritering af tid, ressourcer og opmærksomhed.
Homeostasis, injury, and recovery dynamics at multiple scales in a self-organizing mouse intestinal crypt
Authors: Gall Louis , Duckworth Carrie , Jardi Ferran , Lammens Lieve , Parker Aimee , Bianco Ambra , Kimko Holly , Pritchard David Mark , Pin Carmen
Published: December 2023

The maintenance of the functional integrity of the intestinal epithelium requires a tight coordination between cell production, migration, and shedding along the crypt–villus axis. Dysregulation of these processes may result in loss of the intestinal barrier and disease. With the aim of generating a more complete and integrated understanding of how the epithelium maintains homeostasis and recovers after injury, we have built a multi-scale agent-based model (ABM) of the mouse intestinal epithelium. We demonstrate that stable, self-organizing behaviour in the crypt emerges from the dynamic interaction of multiple signalling pathways, such as Wnt, Notch, BMP, ZNRF3/RNF43, and YAP-Hippo pathways, which regulate proliferation and differentiation, respond to environmental mechanical cues, form feedback mechanisms, and modulate the dynamics of the cell cycle protein network. The model recapitulates the crypt phenotype reported after persistent stem cell ablation and after the inhibition of the CDK1 cycle protein. Moreover, we simulated 5-fluorouracil (5-FU)-induced toxicity at multiple scales starting from DNA and RNA damage, which disrupts the cell cycle, cell signalling, proliferation, differentiation, and migration and leads to loss of barrier integrity. During recovery, our in silico crypt regenerates its structure in a self-organizing, dynamic fashion driven by dedifferentiation and enhanced by negative feedback loops. Thus, the model enables the simulation of xenobiotic-, in particular chemotherapy-, induced mechanisms of intestinal toxicity and epithelial recovery. Overall, we present a systems model able to simulate the disruption of molecular events and its impact across multiple levels of epithelial organization and demonstrate its application to epithelial research and drug development.
Nicotinic acetylcholine receptor signaling maintains epithelial barrier integrity
Authors: Katheder Nadja S , Browder Kristen C , Chang Diana , De Maziere Ann , Kujala Pekka , van Dijk Suzanne , Klumperman Judith , Lu Tzu-Chiao , Li Hongjie , Lai Zijuan , Sangaraju Dewakar , Jasper Heinrich
Published: December 2023

Disruption of epithelial barriers is a common disease manifestation in chronic degenerative diseases of the airways, lung, and intestine. Extensive human genetic studies have identified risk loci in such diseases, including in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and inflammatory bowel diseases. The genes associated with these loci have not fully been determined, and functional characterization of such genes requires extensive studies in model organisms. Here, we report the results of a screen in Drosophila melanogaster that allowed for rapid identification, validation, and prioritization of COPD risk genes that were selected based on risk loci identified in human genome-wide association studies (GWAS). Using intestinal barrier dysfunction in flies as a readout, our results validate the impact of candidate gene perturbations on epithelial barrier function in 56% of the cases, resulting in a prioritized target gene list. We further report the functional characterization in flies of one family of these genes, encoding for nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAchR) subunits. We find that nAchR signaling in enterocytes of the fly gut promotes epithelial barrier function and epithelial homeostasis by regulating the production of the peritrophic matrix. Our findings identify COPD-associated genes critical for epithelial barrier maintenance, and provide insight into the role of epithelial nAchR signaling for homeostasis.
Evolution towards simplicity in bacterial small heat shock protein system
Authors: Karaś Piotr , Kochanowicz Klaudia , Pitek Marcin , Domanski Przemyslaw , Obuchowski Igor , Tomiczek Barlomiej , Liberek Krzysztof
Published: December 2023

Evolution can tinker with multi-protein machines and replace them with simpler single-protein systems performing equivalent functions in an equally efficient manner. It is unclear how, on a molecular level, such simplification can arise. With ancestral reconstruction and biochemical analysis, we have traced the evolution of bacterial small heat shock proteins (sHsp), which help to refold proteins from aggregates using either two proteins with different functions (IbpA and IbpB) or a secondarily single sHsp that performs both functions in an equally efficient way. Secondarily single sHsp evolved from IbpA, an ancestor specialized in strong substrate binding. Evolution of an intermolecular binding site drove the alteration of substrate binding properties, as well as the formation of higher-order oligomers. Upon two mutations in the α-crystallin domain, secondarily single sHsp interacts with aggregated substrates less tightly. Paradoxically, less efficient binding positively influences the ability of sHsp to stimulate substrate refolding, since the dissociation of sHps from aggregates is required to initiate Hsp70-Hsp100-dependent substrate refolding. After the loss of a partner, IbpA took over its role in facilitating the sHsp dissociation from an aggregate by weakening the interaction with the substrate, which became beneficial for the refolding process. We show that the same two amino acids introduced in modern-day systems define whether the IbpA acts as a single sHsp or obligatorily cooperates with an IbpB partner. Our discoveries illuminate how one sequence has evolved to encode functions previously performed by two distinct proteins.
mitoBKCa is functionally expressed in murine and human breast cancer cells and potentially contributes to metabolic reprogramming
Authors: Bischof Helmut , Maier Selina , Koprowski Piotr , Kulawiak Bogusz , Burgstaller Sandra , Jasińska Joanna , Serafimov Kristian , Zochowska Monika , Gross Dominic , Schroth Werner , Matt Lucas , Juarez Lopez David Arturo , Zhang Ying , Bonzheim Irina , Büttner Florian A , Fend Falko , Schwab Matthias , Birkenfeld Andreas L , Malli Roland , Lämmerhofer Michael , Bednarczyk Piotr , Szewczyk Adam , Lukowski Robert
Published: December 2023

Alterations in the function of K+ channels such as the voltage- and Ca2+-activated K+ channel of large conductance (BKCa) reportedly promote breast cancer (BC) development and progression. Underlying molecular mechanisms remain, however, elusive. Here, we provide electrophysiological evidence for a BKCa splice variant localized to the inner mitochondrial membrane of murine and human BC cells (mitoBKCa). Through a combination of genetic knockdown and knockout along with a cell permeable BKCa channel blocker, we show that mitoBKCa modulates overall cellular and mitochondrial energy production, and mediates the metabolic rewiring referred to as the ‘Warburg effect’, thereby promoting BC cell proliferation in the presence and absence of oxygen. Additionally, we detect mitoBKCa and BKCa transcripts in low or high abundance, respectively, in clinical BC specimens. Together, our results emphasize, that targeting mitoBKCa could represent a treatment strategy for selected BC patients in future.
Types of 23S Ribosomal RNA Point Mutations Affecting Helicobacter pylori Eradication Rates in Clarithromycin-Based Triple Therapy
Authors: Park Gihong , Kim Bokyung , Chung Hyunsoo , Kim Sang Gyun , Cho Soo-Jeong
Published: December 2023

Objectives: The A2142G and A2143G mutations in the 23S ribosomal ribonucleic acid (rRNA) of Helicobacter pylori are the most common mutations associated with clarithromycin resistance. This study aimed to determine the differences in H. pylori eradication rates in patients infected with bacteria carrying the A2142G and A2143G mutations who were treated with clarithromycin-based triple therapy. Methods: Data from a previous randomized controlled trial were analyzed retrospectively. Eradication rates were compared based on the presence of H. pylori carrying the A2142G and A2143G mutations. A meta-analysis was also conducted of relevant studies containing data regarding patients who received clarithromycin-based therapy due to infections with H. pylori harboring 23S rRNA mutations. Results: No significant difference was observed in H. pylori eradication rates between patients infected with wild-type bacteria (95.7% [44/46]) compared with those infected with bacteria carrying the A2142G mutation (100.0% [3/3]; p>0.9). However, the eradication rate was significantly lower for patients infected with bacteria carrying the A2143G mutation (16.7% [1/6]; p<0.001) than for those infected with wild-type bacteria or bacteria with the A2142G mutation (100.0% [3/3]; p=0.048). In the meta-analysis, the between-group comparisons yielded similar results. Although patients infected with bacteria having the A2142G mutation exhibited no significant risk difference (RD) for eradication compared with those infected with wild-type bacteria (RD=-0.05 [-0.18 to 0.08]; I2=0%; p=0.42), those infected with bacteria having the A2143G mutation demonstrated a lower H. pylori eradication rate compared with patients infected with either wild-type (RD=0.72 [0.64–0.80]; I2=0%; p<0.001) or A2143G mutant bacteria (RD=0.76 [0.61–0.91]; I2=0%; p< 0.001). Conclusions: The A2143G mutation may play a more significant role in clarithromycin triple therapy H. pylori eradication failure than does the A2142G mutation. Additionally, H. pylori strains with the A2142G mutation can be treated effectively with clarithromycin-based triple therapy.
Outcomes Associated With ABCG2 and CD133 Expression in Patients With Gastric Cancer After Surgical Resection
Authors: Kang Donghoon , Park Jae Myung , Lee Sung Hak , Cho Yu Kyung , Lee Bo-In , Choi Myung-Gyu
Published: December 2023

Objectives: Adenosine triphosphate-binding cassette subfamily G member 2 (ABCG2) and CD133 are recognized stem cell markers of gastric cancer. Extensive research has examined the significance of these markers in different types of cancers and their impact on prognoses, linking them to unfavorable clinical outcomes in various tumors. However, the prognostic value of these markers for gastric cancer remains unclear. We investigated the expression of ABCG2 and CD133 and their relationship with clinical outcomes in gastric cancer.Methods: ABCG2 and CD133 expression levels were analyzed, using immunohistochemistry and tissue microarrays, in tumor samples from 459 patients who underwent surgical resections due to gastric cancer. ABCG2 and CD133 expression levels were defined by intensity and dichotomized as medians. The associations among the expression levels of these markers, disease severity, and patient survival were also determined.Results: In the 411 patients for whom we analyzed the expression levels of these markers, 74.9% and 80.5% were found to have high levels of ABCG2 and CD133, respectively. High expression levels of ABCG2 and CD133 were more commonly observed in well-differentiated (p<0.001 and p=0.004, respectively) and intestinal lesions (p<0.001 and p=0.002, respectively). High ABCG2 expression correlated with improved survival outcomes, whereas high CD133 expression was associated with poorer outcomes. Cox regression analysis confirmed that stage, high ABCG2 (overall survival [OS]: hazard ratio [HR], 0.61; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.41–0.91; p=0.015; recurrencefree survival [RFS]: HR, 0.55; 95% CI, 0.34–0.88; p=0.012), and CD133 expression (OS: HR, 1.59; 95% CI, 1.00–2.51; p=0.049; RFS: HR, 2.29; 95% CI, 1.21–4.34; p=0.011) were predictors of survival. A subgroup analysis indicated that ABCG2 expression was also associated with an improved RFS rate in patients who received systemic chemotherapy.Conclusions: High ABCG2 expression and low CD133 expression in tumors correlated with improved survival outcomes in post-resection patients with gastric cancer, suggesting their potential utility as prognostic biomarkers.
Comparison of Helicobacter pylori Eradication Rates Using Standard Triple Therapy and Sequential Therapy
Authors: Kim Yuri , Ahn Ji Yong , Jung Hwoon-Yong , Noh Jin Hee , Na Hee Kyong , Jung Kee Wook , Lee Jeong Hoon , Kim Do Hoon , Choi Kee Don , Song Ho June , Lee Gin Hyug
Published: December 2023

Objectives: The incidence of treatment failures following standard triple therapy (STT) for Helicobacter pylori eradication (HPE) has reached an unacceptable level. Sequential therapy (SQ) has emerged as a promising approach to counteract the escalation of antibiotic resistance. In this study, we used a chronological cohort dataset to conduct a comparative analysis of the eradication rates, compliance, and adverse events associated with the 7-day STT and SQ.Methods: A total of 789 patients underwent HPE treatment at Asan Medical Center between July 2013 and August 2017. Among them, 378 received a 7-day STT and 411 received a 10-day SQ. Baseline clinical data and treatment parameters were compared between the two treatment groups.Results: SQ demonstrated an eradication rate of 84.7% (348/411), which was superior to that of the 7-day STT (74.1%; p<0.001). The incidence of adverse events was also higher in the SQ group than in the STT group (17.5% vs. 11.1%; p=0.01). Nonetheless, treatment compliance was not significantly different between the groups (98.1% [SQ] vs. 96.8% [STT]; p=0.38). Among the patients undergoing second-line eradication, the SQ group displayed a lower eradication rate than the STT group (77.8% vs. 92.4%; p=0.028). Notably, the overall eradication rate did not differ significantly between the two groups (98.3% [STT] vs. 97.4% [SQ]; p=0.56).Conclusions: SQ exhibited superior efficacy compared with the 7-day STT as a first-line H. pylori treatment. Thus, SQ holds potential to serve as the replacement for the 7-day STT in treatment-naïve patients.
A Case of Suspected Acute Esophageal Anisakiasis With Dysphagia
Authors: Han Joonhee , Kim Heung Up , Kim Sejin , Song Hyun Joo
Published: December 2023

Anisakiasis is a zoonotic parasitic infection associated with consumption of raw fish or uncooked seafood. We report a rare case of suspected esophageal anisakiasis-induced dysphagia. A 66-year-old man patient without any medical history was admitted to our hospital for evaluation of acute dysphagia. Following intake of abalone sashimi for dinner, he experienced sudden difficulty with swallowing the day before his emergency department visit. He developed skin rash and pruritus throughout his body, shortly thereafter. He also had chest and upper abdominal pain and diarrhea. He had experienced similar symptoms after consumption of raw fish on two previous occasions. Dysphagia improved 9 days later. Gastroscopy performed after symptom onset showed small erosions and edematous mucosa in the mid esophagus. Abdominopelvic computed tomography (CT) showed distal esophageal wall thickening and small bowel obstruction with concomitant ascites. We suspected anisakiasis based on the following criteria: 1) Skin rash after the third episode of consumption of raw fish or seafood (anisakiasisspecific immunoglobulin E class 4). 2) CT-documented small intestinal obstruction and ascites. 3) Eosinophil-dominant fluid observed on ascitic fluid analysis. Therefore, it is reasonable to conclude that temporary dysphagia in this patient was attributable to esophageal anisakiasis associated with raw seafood consumption.
Clinical Characteristics of Cytomegalovirus Disease of the Upper Gastrointestinal Tract: A 10-Year Multicenter Retrospective Study
Authors: You Ga-Ram , Park Seon-Young , You Hye-Su , Seo Seung-Young , Yim Sung-Kyun , Jin Byung-Chul , Lee Jung-In , Kim Young-Dae , Choi Suck-Chei , Park Chan-Guk , Lee Wan-Sik
Published: December 2023

Objectives: Gastrointestinal cytomegalovirus (CMV) disease is a major contributor to mortality in immunocompromised patients. Few studies have discussed upper gastrointestinal CMV (UGICMV) disease in immunocompetent patients. We compared the clinical outcomes of UGI-CMV between immunocompromised and immunocompetent patients.Methods: This retrospective study included patients with UGI-CMV disease from five tertiary hospitals across Korea (2010– 2022). Patients’ clinical data and outcomes were recorded.Results: UGI-CMV was diagnosed in 54 patients; 27 (50.0%) had esophageal, 24 (44.4%) had gastric, and 3 patients (5.6%) had duodenal involvement. Patients’ median age was 64 years (interquartile range 53–75 years), and the most common comorbidities included hypertension (57.4%) and diabetes (38.9%). The predominant symptom was abdominal pain (46.3%), and the most common endoscopic finding was ulcers (70.4%). Antiviral treatment was administered to 31 patients, and 23 patients underwent observation without treatment. We investigated 32 immunocompromised (59.3%) and 22 immunocompetent (40.7%) patients and observed no intergroup differences in comorbidities and in laboratory and endoscopic findings. Immunocompromised patients had longer length of hospitalization (median 46.2 days vs. 20.0 days, p=0.001). However, treatment outcomes, including the need for intensive care unit admission and mortality did not significantly differ. The overall mortality rate was 13.0%; one patient from the immunocompromised group died of UGI-CMV disease. The treatment success rate was higher in immunocompromised patients who received antiviral therapy (p=0.011).Conclusions: UGI-CMV disease is not uncommon in immunocompetent patients, although symptoms are milder than those in immunocompromised patients. Our findings emphasize the importance of clinical vigilance for accurate diagnosis of CMV infection, particularly in susceptible symptomatic patients and highlight the need for active antiviral treatment for management of immunocompromised patients.
Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy: Insertion and Management
Authors: Jeon Han Jo
Published: December 2023

Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is the modality of choice for long-term enteral feeding in patients in whom oral intake is challenging. Compared with parenteral nutrition, gastrostomy feeding is the preferred choice for sustained nutritional support. Delivery of nutrients directly to the gastrointestinal tract and enhanced cellular immunity associated with this approach are clinically beneficial to patients. Endoscopic gastrostomy is favored for its high clinical success rates and economic advantages and is associated with minor discrepancies with regard to morbidity, mortality, and tube function compared with surgical gastrostomy. PEG procedures can be broadly classified into the pull- and push-types. Although PEG is a comparatively safe procedure, high risk of bleeding is a well-known complication of PEG placement, which necessitates prophylactic antibiotic therapy and careful periprocedural management in patients who receive antiplatelet and anticoagulant agents. Tube dislodgement, peristomal leakage, or infection following PEG placement may require tube replacement or removal. In this review, we investigated the concerns associated with early vs. delayed feeding in concordance with current guidelines. We also describe the indications for PEG tube insertion, post-procedural care strategies, and management of complications.
Differences in family functioning before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: an observational study in Peruvian families
Authors: Bazo-Alvarez Juan Carlos , Villarreal-Zegarra David , Lázaro-Illatopa Wilder Iván , Manrique-Millones Denisse , Ipanaqué-Zapata Miguel , Garcia María José , Bazo-Alvarez Oscar , Goicochea-Ríos Evelyn , Valle-Salvatierra Willy , García-Serna Jackeline Edith
Published: December 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a major impact on family relationships, as several families have lost family members due to COVID-19 pandemic and become physically and emotionally estranged due to lockdown measures and critically economic periods. Our study contrasted two hypotheses: (1) family functioning changed notably before and after the COVID-19 pandemic initiation in terms of cohesion, flexibility, communication and satisfaction; (2) balanced families have a greater capacity to strictly comply with quarantine (i.e., social confinement), compared to unbalanced families. We performed an observational study comparing family functioning between two independent groups, evaluated before and during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Peru. A total of 7,980 participants were included in the study. For the first hypothesis, we found that, during the pandemic, families became more balanced in terms of cohesion (adjusted before-during mean difference or β1= 1.4; 95% CI [1.0–1.7]) and flexibility (β2= 2.0; 95% CI [1.6–2.4]), and families were less disengaged (β3= −1.9; 95% CI [−2.3 to −1.5]) and chaotic (β4= −2.9; 95% CI [−3.3 to −2.4]). Regarding the second hypothesis, we confirmed that families with balanced cohesion (adjusted prevalence ratio or aPR = 1.16; 95% CI [1.12–1.19) and flexibility (aPR = 1.23; 95% CI [1.18–1.27]) allowed greater compliance with quarantine restrictions; while disengaged (aPR = 0.91; 95% CI [0.88–0.93]) and chaotic families (aPR = 0.89; 95% CI [0.87–0.92]) were more likely to partially comply or not comply with the quarantine. Finally, family communication (aPR = 1.17; 95% CI [1.11–1.24]) and satisfaction (aPR = 1.18; 95% CI [1.11–1.25]) also played a role in favouring quarantine compliance. This new evidence enlightens the family systems theory while informing future interventions for improving compliance with quarantine measures in the context of social confinement.
Hematopoietic effect of echinochrome on phenylhydrazine-induced hemolytic anemia in rats
Authors: El-Shehry Mona S. E. F. , Amrymi Rafa A. , Atia Tarek , Lotfy Bassant M. M. , Ahmed Salma H. A. , Qutb Sarah A. , Ali Sara B. , Mohamed Ayman S. , Mousa Mohamed R. , Damanhory Ahmed A. , Metawee Mostafa E. , Sakr Hader I.
Published: December 2023

Background

Hemolytic anemia (HA) is a serious health condition resulting from reduced erythrocytes’ average life span. Echinochrome (Ech) is a dark-red pigment found in shells and spines of sea urchins.

Aim

Studying the potential therapeutic effect of Ech on phenylhydrazine (PHZ)-induced HA in rats.

Methods

Eighteen rats were divided into three groups (n = 6): the control group, the phenylhydrazine-induced HA group and the Ech group, injected intraperitoneally with PHZ and supplemented with oral Ech daily for 6 days.

Results

Ech resulted in a considerable increase in RBCs, WBCs, and platelets counts, hemoglobin, reduced glutathione, catalase, and glutathione-S-transferase levels, and a significant decrease in aspartate & alanine aminotransferases, alkaline phosphatase, gamma-glutamyl transferase, bilirubin, creatinine, urea, urate, malondialdehyde & nitric oxide levels in anemic rats. Histopathological examination of liver and kidney tissue samples showed marked improvement.

Conclusion

Ech ameliorated phenylhydrazine-induced HA with a hepatorenal protective effect owing to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.