bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
NSAID exposure delays time-to-pregnancy in patients with spondyloarthritis: an analysis of the GR2 prospective cohort
Authors: Hamroun Sabrina , Couderc Marion , Flipo René-Marc , Sellam Jérémie , Richez Christophe , Dernis Emanuelle , Frazier Aline , Gossec Laure , Gervais Elisabeth , Marotte Hubert , Dunogeant Laetitia , Lukas Cédric , Deroux Alban , Guettrot-Imbert Gaëlle , Le Guern Véronique , Costedoat-Chalumeau Nathalie , Molto Anna
Published: November 2024

Background

The impact of disease activity and treatment on fertility outcomes in patients with spondyloarthritis (SpA) has been little explored. This study aimed to describe median time to pregnancy (TTP) in women with SpA and the factors influencing TTP in this population.

Methods

This prospective observational multicentre (63 centres) French cohort (GR2 study—NCT02450396) included consecutive women with a diagnosis of SpA (according to their rheumatologist) who wanted to become pregnant between 2015 and 2021. TTP (in months) was the main outcome criterion, prospectively calculated from the date of study inclusion to the date of conception. Data on demographics, disease characteristics, disease activity, severity and treatment were prospectively collected at inclusion and each year thereafter until pregnancy occurred. TTP and its associated factors were estimated by survival analysis (Shared Frailty Cox models), with a random centre effect and multiple imputation to address missing data.

Results

We analysed 88 women included before conception. Among them, 56 (63.6%) became pregnant during follow-up. Median TTP was 16.1 (95% CI (12.2 to 25.3)) months. Mean preconceptional Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index at inclusion was 2.9 (±SD 2.1). Patients were treated with TNF inhibitors, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), conventional synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs and glucocorticoids in 61 (69.3%), 23 (26.1%), 12 (13.6%) and 8 (9.1%) cases, respectively. The multivariate model found a significant association between TTP and age (HR) (per year) 1.22 95% CI (1.08 to 1.40); p<0.001) and the use of NSAIDs during preconception (HR 3.01 95% CI (2.15 to 3.85); p=0.01).

Conclusion

Age and NSAID use during preconception were significantly associated with a longer TTP, after adjustment for other confounding factors. These findings warrant caution in the use of NSAIDs in SpA patients trying to conceive.
Effects of employees living with an ‘arthritis’ on sickness absence and transitions out of employment: a comparative observational study in the UK
Authors: Whittaker William , Higgerson James , Eden Martin , Payne Katherine , Wilkie Ross , Verstappen Suzanne MM
Published: November 2024

Purpose

To assess sickness absence and transitions from employment for employees with arthritis compared with employees without arthritis over time.

Methods

We use 10 waves of the UK Household Longitudinal Survey (2009–2019). The sample (n=38 928) comprises employees aged 50 years to state retirement age. Arthritis was self-reported and could refer to people with conditions under the umbrella term ‘inflammatory arthritis’ or osteoarthritis (hereafter ‘arthritis’). Weighted random-effects multivariable linear probability models were estimated for two employment-related measures (1) sickness absence and (2) transitions from employment to: (a) unemployment; (b) long-term sick; (c) early retirement. These were regressed against a variable for arthritis and confounding factors (age, socioeconomic job classification, employing sector, year and additional health conditions). Additional analyses examined an interaction between the variable arthritis and these factors to test whether the effect of arthritis differs between these groups.

Results

Employees reporting having arthritis were more likely to have sickness absence (1.35 percentage points greater rate (95% CI (0.92, 1.78)) and to transition to long-term sick (0.79 percentage points (0.46, 1.13)) and early retirement (0.58 percentage points (0.05, 1.11)). No effect was found for transitions to unemployment. There was limited evidence that the effects of arthritis vary for employees in different socioeconomic classifications.

Conclusions

Employees living with arthritis have higher rates of sickness absence and greater rates of transitions from employment to long-term sick and early retirement. Further work could look at ways to quantify the implications for individuals, employers and the state and ways to alleviate the effects of living with arthritis on work participation.
Research Progress of Chinese Medicine in Treating Chronic Liver Disease by Regulating Autophagy
Authors: Zheng Shihao , Xue Chengyuan , Xue Tianyu , Li Size , Zao Xiaobin , Li Xiaoke , Cao Xu , Chen Yu , Qi Wenying , Wang Wei , Zhang Peng , Ye Yongan
Published: November 2024

In recent years, rising living standards and an accelerated lifestyle have led to an increase in the incidence of chronic liver disease. Modern medicine has yet to fully develop effective methods for preventing and treating these conditions due to their complex pathogenesis. Autophagy, a cellular process that maintains homeostasis by removing abnormal proteins, has emerged as a promising therapeutic target for chronic liver diseases. These diseases include liver fibrosis, liver cirrhosis, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, chronic hepatitis B, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Chinese medicine, with its multi-component, multi-target, and multi-pathway approach, offers unique advantages in treating these conditions, especially given the unclear etiology of chronic liver diseases. Recent research demonstrates that Chinese medicine — comprising single herbs, herbal combinations, and proprietary formulas — can effectively regulate autophagy, thereby providing therapeutic and preventive benefits for chronic liver diseases. This paper reviews recent studies, categorizes various chronic liver diseases, and examines the impact of active ingredients and compound formulas from Chinese medicine on autophagy. These insights are crucial for slowing the progression of chronic liver diseases and pave the way for the future application of Chinese medicine in preventing and managing these conditions through autophagy modulation.
Nurturing Chinese Nationalists: High-School Ideopolitical Education Textbook Narratives (1991–2019)
Authors: MOK WING-HUNG
Published: November 2024

Following the Tiananmen Incident, the Chinese government began to tighten its grip on education and turn increasingly to nationalism. Understanding the significant impact that education has on shaping lifelong ideology and behavior throughout adolescence, the Chinese government has strategically leveraged ideopolitical education, a highly politicized subject in high schools, to foster nationalism. This study attempts to address the critical knowledge gap concerning diachronic narratives in high-school ideopolitical education textbooks from the 1990s to the present. These narratives are categorized into five themes: (1) the Chinese nation; (2) the superiority of socialism; (3) the notoriety of capitalism; (4) the Century of Humiliation; and (5) the manipulation of and monopoly over common history. These themes potentially fuel nationalism through the two dynamics of “common history” and distinction between the self and other. This study thus sheds light on the Chinese government’s decades-long, consistent endeavor to instill nationalism through high-school ideopolitical education after the Tiananmen Incident.
A Preliminary Study of the Impact of Intensive Hand Therapy after Arthroscopic Partial Trapeziectomy with Suture-Button Suspensionplasty for Thumb Carpometacarpal Arthritis
Authors: YAMAWAKI Rie , NANKAKU Manabu , IKEGUCHI Ryosuke , MAEDA Akemi , NOGUCHI Takashi , MATSUDA Shuichi
Published: November 2024

Background: Thumb carpometacarpal (CMC) arthritis is a painful and debilitating condition, which in severe cases may be treated by surgery. Previous studies have emphasised the importance of rehabilitation following surgery to achieve optimal results. This study aimed to investigate whether intensive hand therapy is effective in improving hand functions after arthroscopic partial trapeziectomy with suture-button (SB) suspensionplasty in patients with thumb CMC arthritis.

Methods: This was a retrospective observational study that used non-randomised historical controls. Patients who underwent arthroscopic partial trapeziectomy with SB suspensionplasty were divided into two groups according to whether they had postoperative hand therapy or not (hand therapy group, n = 12; no hand therapy group, n = 11). CMC joint pain, range of motion (ROM), grip and pinch strength in the operative side and Quick Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH) score were compared before surgery and at the final follow-up for each group.

Results: CMC joint pain, ROM and QuickDASH scores significantly improved following surgery, in both groups. Conversely, postoperative grip and pinch strength only increased significantly in the hand therapy group (grip strength: effect size = 0.36, pinch strength: effect size = 0.44).

Conclusions: This study demonstrates that early-stage intensive hand therapy is an effective intervention after arthroscopic partial trapeziectomy with SB suspensionplasty, specifically for improving grip and pinch strength.

Level of Evidence: Level III (Therapeutic)
IoT Authentication Protocols: Challenges, and Comparative Analysis
Authors: Alsheavi Amar N. , Hawbani Ammar , Othman Wajdy , Wang Xingfu , Qaid Gamil , Zhao Liang , Al-Dubai Ahmed , Zhi Liu , Ismail A.s. , Jhaveri Rutvij , Alsamhi Saeed , Al-Qaness Mohammed A. A.
Published: November 2024

In the ever-evolving information technology landscape, the Internet of Things (IoT) is a groundbreaking concept that bridges the physical and digital worlds. It is the backbone of an increasingly sophisticated interactive environment, yet it is a subject of intricate security challenges spawned by its multifaceted manifestations. Central to securing IoT infrastructures is the crucial aspect of authentication, necessitating a comprehensive examination of its nuances, including benefits, challenges, opportunities, trends, and societal implications. In this article, we thoroughly review the IoT authentication protocols (Aps), addressing the main challenges such as privacy protection, scalability, and human factors that may impact security. Through exacting analysis, we evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of existing APs and conduct a comparative performance analysis to evaluate their effectiveness and scalability in securing IoT environments and devices. At the end of this study, we summarize the main findings and suggest ways to improve the security of IoT devices in the future.
When SDN Meets Low-rate Threats: A Survey of Attacks and Countermeasures in Programmable Networks
Authors: Tang Dan , Dai Rui , Yan Yudong , Li Keqin , Liang Wei , Qin Zheng
Published: November 2024

Low-rate threats are a class of attack vectors that are disruptive and stealthy, typically crafted for security vulnerabilities. They have been the significant concern for cyber security, impacting both conventional IP-based networks and emerging Software-Defined Networking (SDN). SDN is a revolutionary architecture that separates the control and data planes, offering advantages such as enhanced manageability, flexibility, and network programmability, as well as the ability to introduce new solutions to address security threats. However, its innovative design also poses new vulnerabilities and threats, especially susceptibility to low-rate threats. To this end, this article presents a comprehensive overview of low-rate threats in programmable networks. It explores low-rate threats and countermeasures within the SDN architecture, encompassing the data plane, control plane, control channel, and application plane, together with traditional low-rate threats and countermeasures in SDN. Furthermore, the article offers detailed insight into threats and countermeasures against low-rate attacks exploiting SDN vulnerabilities and low-rate attacks related to the programmable data plane. Additionally, it presents a comparative analysis and discussion of low-rate attacks versus high-volume attacks, along with suggestions for enhancing SDN security. This thorough review aims to assist researchers in developing more resilient and dependable countermeasures against low-rate threats in programmable networks.
Flow-augmentation I: Directed graphs
Authors: Kim Eun Jung , Kratsch Stefan , Pilipczuk Marcin , Wahlström Magnus
Published: November 2024

We show a flow-augmentation algorithm in directed graphs: There exists a randomized polynomial-time algorithm that, given a directed graph
G
, two vertices
s, t ∈ V(G)
, and an integer
k
, adds (randomly) to
G
a number of arcs such that for every minimal
st
-cut
Z
in
G
of size at most
k
, with probability 2

−poly(
k
)

the set
Z
becomes a
minimum
st
-cut in the resulting graph. We also provide a deterministic counterpart of this procedure.

The directed flow-augmentation tool allows us to prove fixed-parameter tractability of a number of problems parameterized by the cardinality of the deletion set whose parameterized complexity status was repeatedly posed as open problems:

Chain SAT
, defined by Chitnis, Egri, and Marx [ESA’13, Algorithmica’17],

a number of weighted variants of classic directed cut problems, such as
Weighted
st
-
Cut
or
Weighted Directed Feedback Vertex Set
.

By proving that
Chain SAT
is FPT, we confirm a conjecture of Chitnis, Egri, and Marx that, for any graph
H
, if the
List
H
-
Coloring
problem is polynomial-time solvable, then the corresponding vertex-deletion problem is fixed-parameter tractable.
Object Selection and Manipulation in VR Headsets: Research Challenges, Solutions, and Success Measurements
Authors: Yu Difeng , Dingler Tilman , Velloso Eduardo , Goncalves Jorge
Published: November 2024

Object selection and manipulation are the foundation of VR interactions. With the rapid development of VR technology and the field of virtual object selection and manipulation, the literature demands a structured understanding of the core research challenges and a critical reflection of the current practices. To provide such understanding and reflections, we systematically reviewed 106 papers. We identified classic and emerging topics, categorized existing solutions, and evaluated how success was measured in these publications. Based on our analysis, we discuss future research directions and propose a framework for developing and determining appropriate solutions for different application scenarios.
A Systematic Literature Review of Enterprise Architecture Evaluation Methods
Authors: Busch Norbert Rudolf , Zalewski Andrzej
Published: November 2024

Enterprise Architecture (EA) is a systematic and holistic approach to designing and managing an organization's information systems components, aiding in optimizing resources, managing risk, and facilitating change. It weighs different architectural quality attributes against each other to achieve the most advantageous architecture. However, the evaluation of EA lacks a systematic approach. This study employs a Systematic Literature Review, analyzing, in detail, 109 articles carefully selected from 3644 papers published since 2005. The key outcome of the research reveals that a crucial factor for the extensive worldwide adoption of EA evaluation methods lies in the automation of the assessment and architecture modeling processes, particularly emphasizing the facet of data collection. The automation of EA evaluation will empower organizations to streamline their processes, make data-driven decisions, and respond more effectively to change, ultimately contributing to their competitiveness and long-term success in the global market. The study identifies diverse evaluation methods, determines evaluation criteria, examines the extent to which these methods have been verified in practice, and provides directions for further research and advancement.
Simple Polynomial Reissner–Mindlin Shell Model and Its Application in Efficient Analysis of Complex Underground Structures
Authors: Chen Jingxu , Huang Jihui , Peng Yifeng
Published: November 2024

The isogeometric (IG) Reissner–Mindlin (R–M) shell model solves the problem of shear and membrane locking that besets the finite element (FE) R–M shell model of nonthick underground structures, but still faces complicated modeling and computation, especially for the multijoint structures. In order to change such situation, a simple polynomial (SP) R–M shell model is proposed. Similar to the IG displacement, the SP displacement has the advantage of easy locking reduction due to its convenience in degree elevation. The definition of the SP displacement is independent of the shape and the control points, so the elements can be divided with no new degrees of freedom created, which lays a foundation for the simplified modeling strategy of “joint definition after block description.” Micro‐width connectors are introduced to unify the modeling of interblock links, interblock joints, and intrablock joints, and to quantitatively determine the actual state of each joint through incremental iteration. A program with parameterized preprocessing and postprocessing is written based on the SP R–M shell model to realize the one‐key analysis of complex underground structures. As verification, three engineering cases are modeled and computed. The errors of typical displacements and bending moments from the SP R–M shell model and the IG R–M shell model are no more than 3%, while the errors of the results from the FE R–M shell model and the IG R–M shell model are around 20%, which reveals the feasibility and advantages of the SP R–M shell model.
Improving the Properties of Laterite Bricks With Palm Nut Fibre and Lime for Housing Application
Authors: Aidoo Ebenezer , Danso Humphrey
Published: November 2024

The high cost of cement and sand has called for research into the use of alternative low‐cost building construction materials, such as laterite, for producing bricks and blocks for housing. The aim of the study is to investigate the engineering properties of lateritic bricks that are stabilised with palm nut fibre (PNF) and lime for housing applications. Laterite, 5% lime constant, and PNF of 0.2%, 0.4%, 0.6%, 0.8%, and 1% by weight of laterite were used for preparing the bricks, and their properties were assessed at 7, 14, 21, and 28 days of curing. About 1% PNF and 5% lime at 28‐day curing achieved the highest compressive strength of 2.328 N/mm2 as compared with the control brick strength of 1.022 N/mm2, representing a strength increase of 127.8% as compared with the control. The maximum tensile strength of 0.514 N/mm2 was achieved by 1% PNF and 5% lime at 28‐day curing as compared with 0.206 N/mm2 control, which represents 149.5% improved strength. It was found that the higher the fibre content and lime in the brick specimen, the lesser the water absorption. The abrasion resistance of the brick specimens increases with an increase in fibre content. The study concludes that PNF and lime inclusion in lateritic bricks improves the properties of the blocks. About 1% PNF and 5% lime are recommended for use in manufacturing laterite brick for housing applications.
Analytical Treatments for a Coupled (2+1)‐Dimensional Partial Differential Equations in Nonlinear Physics
Authors: Ibrahim Wubshet , Negesa Teresa
Published: November 2024

The two‐dimensional (2D) nonlinear coupled sine‐Gordon equations play a significant role in nonlinear physics, describing phenomena in areas such as solid‐state physics, fluid dynamics, and nonlinear optics. Fundamentally, the sine‐Gordon equation is a nonlinear partial differential equation (PDE) commonly used to model wave propagation, soliton dynamics, and particle interactions across various physical systems. This article focuses on the analytical solution of the 2D nonlinear coupled sine‐Gordon equations in nonlinear wave contexts, considering specific boundary and initial conditions. The solution approach combines the triple Sumudu transform (TST) with an iterative method, detailing the analytical techniques and discussing their convergence properties. The exact solution, presented as a convergent series, is visually depicted through graphs. To address the nonlinear part of the equations, a successive iterative method was applied. The efficiency of the proposed method is illustrated through two test problems, with examples from engineering applications demonstrating its applicability. In conclusion, this method proves to be highly effective, efficient, and promising for finding exact solutions. Overall, the 2D nonlinear coupled sine‐Gordon equations capture the intricate dynamics of nonlinear wave propagation, soliton interactions, and energy conservation in systems with multiple interacting components, making them a powerful tool for modeling a broad range of physical systems.
Advancements in Z‐Source Solid‐State Circuit Breakers for Enhanced Protection of DC Distribution Networks: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Daniar Sabah , Sarvenoee Amirhossein Khosravi
Published: November 2024

DC technologies constitute essential components within the scope of DC distribution networks. All DC networks confront inherent threats, such as DC short‐circuit faults, necessitating robust protective measures. Utilizing DC circuit breakers (DCCBs) emerges as a pivotal strategy for safeguarding these networks. Among the available topologies, z‐source solid‐state circuit breakers (Z‐SSCBs) prove to be optimal for protecting low‐ and medium‐voltage distribution networks and DC equipment due to their straightforward structure, uncomplicated control mechanisms, and cost‐effectiveness. This paper comprehensively explores various Z‐SSCB topologies. The study commences with a comprehensive overview of recent research on circuit breakers and subsequently delves into specific aspects of Z‐SSCB structures. It thoroughly evaluates proposed methodologies and configurations pertaining to these structures. Each structure’s merits and drawbacks are utterly analyzed and compared in detail. The analysis categorizes these structures into directional and bidirectional types, offering detailed comparative tables for reference. Finally, the paper addresses the future challenges confronting Z‐SSCB technology, shedding light on existing research gaps. This nuanced exploration contributes valuable insights to the field, paving the way for future advancements in DC distribution network protection.
Cardiac Myxoma as a Mimicker of Cerebral Vasculitis: A Case Report
Authors: AbuDujain Nasser M. , Alshoumar Abdulaziz , Alqahtani Awyshah M. , Alshimemeri Sohaila A.
Published: November 2024

Cardiac myxoma is considered the most common primary cardiac tumor and has been reported to cause different neurological complications through distinctive mechanisms, including pseudovasculitis. Herein, we present and review a case of a young male with a previous history of ischemic stroke who presented with multiple territorial ischemic insults in the presence of a presumed diagnosis of vasculitis. Once further workup was done, he was found to have a left atrial myxoma.
Effect of Gamma Irradiation on Depolymerization and Property Changes of Gum Tragacanth
Authors: Ninchan Boontiwa , Chauywongyart Parimitta , Utapong Teerawat , Thamrongsiripak Nuatawan
Published: November 2024

High‐energy nonthermal processes (irradiation) are an interesting technique for depolymerization. Gum tragacanth (GT) is a heteropolysaccharide composed of various sugars that are beneficial in the food and pharmaceutical industries. This study investigated the effects of different gamma irradiation doses (2.5, 5, 10, 20, 100, 500, 1,000, and 2000 kGy) on GT properties, considering both structural and physicochemical changes. The results confirmed that gamma irradiation influenced depolymerization with increases in monosaccharides (L‐arabinose, D‐galactose, D‐glucose, D‐xylose, L‐fucose, L‐rhamnose) and the percentage of degradation. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy analysis indicated that structural changes occurred, with more free O‐H and C‐O bonding, including the carboxylic group (COOH) in the degraded molecules after irradiation. The changes in physicochemical properties were lower viscosity and a color change under gamma irradiation. The property changes in the GT were clearly related to an increased dose of gamma rays. In summary, there was comprehensive GT degradation following exposure using different increasing doses of gamma radiation, with some concomitant property changes in the GT.
New Modified Gompertz Probability Distribution With Flexible Hazard Functions
Authors: Debelu Endalkachew Abebe , Goshu Ayele Taye
Published: November 2024

This paper introduces a new probability model called the modified Gompertz distribution from the base Gompertz distribution by combining its hazard function with first and second degree polynomial (linear and quadratic) functions. The new probability model is found to have more flexible hazard shapes with strictly increasing, strictly decreasing, and bumping behaviors. Properties of the new probability model are derived and discussed. Simulation studies and data fitting are conducted. The modified Gompertz distribution is found to fit better to four datasets as compared to the base Gompertz distribution and also six other models which are Topp‐Leone Gompertz, Generalized Gompertz, Exponentiated Gompertz Exponential, Power Gompertz, Gompertz Ampadu Lomax, and Exponential Generalized Extended Gompertz probability distributions. The modified Gompertz distribution is a contribution to the field of statistical theory, having very interesting shapes of hazard function can have applications to survival, waiting time, and reliability data analyses. Any statistical inference from simulation study and data fitting to real‐world data can possibly lead to new knowledge in applied probability, statistics, and application field such as life science, health, and engineering. Generalization to higher order polynomial functions is recommended for future research. Applications of the models to data from various fields can be studied.
Effect of Cracks on the Influence Lines of a Smart Concrete Girder Bridge Based on the Element Size–Independent FE Model
Authors: Chen Zhiwei , Shi Yu , Chen Jianfeng , Zhang Yao
Published: November 2024

A smart concrete girder bridge usually has various sensors, based on which several physical properties can be measured, and hence, the health condition can be evaluated. Cracks are always observed on a smart concrete girder bridge. In particular, some of the cracks are induced by overloaded vehicles, which is dangerous to its safe operation. However, due to the crack opening and closing effect, it exhibits nonlinear responses, posing challenges for accurately assessing its health condition. Influence lines (ILs) are a promising indicator for bridge damage. However, there is limited research on the effect of cracks on the ILs of a smart concrete girder bridge. A digital twin is commonly used to accompany the smart sensing system to accurately evaluate the health condition, where the finite element (FE) model is of great importance. Therefore, this study proposes an element size–independent FE model construction method based on the concrete damage plasticity (CDP) model to investigate the changes of displacement and strain ILs of different types of smart concrete girder bridges with bending cracks, which is helpful to guide how to use the ILs to identify the cracks and evaluate the health condition. Initially, a concrete constitutive model based on crushing/fracture energy is proposed, and the evolution law of tensile damage based on fracture energy is derived to construct the element size–independent FE model. Subsequently, experiments on a reinforced concrete (RC) simply supported beam and a prestressed concrete (PC) simply supported bridge subjected to bending failure are used to verify the FE models constructed by the proposed method. Finally, the FE models of a smart RC T‐beam bridge and a smart three‐span PC continuous bridge are established to study the changes in ILs caused by bending cracks. The change of displacement IL at the midspan due to cracks for the smart RC bridge exceeds 10% when the reinforcements yield, while it is less than 10% for the smart PC bridge even if the bridge is in the failure state. The change of both displacement and strain ILs becomes greater when the measurement point approaches the cracks, and the change of strain IL is only detectable when the measurement is close to the cracks. Due to the crack opening and closing effect, the displacement and strain ILs of a smart concrete girder bridge with bending cracks are inconsistent when different loads are applied. The findings can also be used as a pre‐IL‐based crack detection using the passing inspection vehicle‐induced dynamic response on a selection of type of ILs, determination of layout of sensors, and mass of inspection vehicle.
Exploring the Inhibitory Potential of M. pendans Compounds Against N‐Acetylglucosamine (Mur) Receptor: In Silico Insights Into Antibacterial Activity and Drug‐Likeness
Authors: Gartika Meirina , Tumilaar Sefren Geiner , Dharsono Hendra Dian Adhita , Nurdin Denny , Kurnia Dikdik
Published: November 2024

Oral diseases are often caused by bacterial infections, making the inhibition of receptors like N‐acetylglucosamine critical in preventing bacterial formation. The plant Myrmecodia pendans (M. pendans) is known for its diverse bioactivities and may serve as a promising source for developing new antibacterial agents. This study employs in silico methods to predict the inhibitory mechanisms, pharmacokinetics, and drug‐likeness of compounds isolated from M. pendans. Three compounds were evaluated for their inhibitory effects on the MurA and MurB receptors using the AutoDock4 molecular docking software, with visualizations performed using the BIOVIA Discovery Studio Visualizer. The binding affinities obtained for compounds 1, 2, and 3 to the MurA receptor were −9.42, −9.57, and −6.84 kcal/mol, respectively, while their binding affinities to the MurB receptor were −11.25, −10.55, and −8.69 kcal/mol. These affinities were found to be stronger than those of fosfomycin (benchmark compound) but weaker than the native ligands of the respective receptors. Key amino acid residues involved in the binding to MurA were identified as Cys115 and Asp305, while Ser82 and Asn83 were noted for MurB. In the ADMET prediction and drug‐likeness analysis, some compounds met the necessary criteria, whereas others did not. Although all the three compounds demonstrated strong predicted inhibitory activity against MurA and MurB receptors, the analysis suggests that Compound 2 may hold the most promise as a potential antibacterial agent, warranting further investigation.
Antibody Response to SARS-CoV-2 before and after the Third Vaccination in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Classen Johanna Maria , Muzalyova Anna , Römmele Christoph , Nagl Sandra , Ebigbo Alanna , Schnoy Elisabeth
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) receiving immunosuppressive therapy might have an increased risk of developing a severe course of SARS-CoV-2 infection. The aim of this study was to investigate the development of antibodies in immunosuppressed patients with IBD compared to a healthy control group and to determine the effect of immunomodulators on the level of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibody levels before and after a third vaccination against SARS-CoV-2. Methods: This is a single-center study with a retrospective observational design. Seventy-one IBD patients matched by propensity score to 71 healthy employees (control group) were included. Blood was taken from both groups at predetermined times before and after the third booster vaccination. Results: All patients with IBD (n = 71, 100%) received immunomodulatory therapy. The mean antibody level before the third vaccination was 1,352.88 U/mL (SD = 1,011.489) in the IBD group and was not lower compared to the control group (p = 0.088). Gender, age, and disease duration had no significant impact on the development of antibody levels. Patients with TNF-alpha blockers had significantly lower antibody titers (p = 0.011) compared to the control group. Patients with integrin inhibitor therapy had significantly higher antibody titers (p = 0.003) than the controls. After the third vaccination, an increase in antibody titers was recorded in all patients in the IBD group. Conclusion: We recorded an antibody titer in all patients with IBD that was not significantly lower compared to healthy controls despite immunomodulatory therapy. The booster vaccination led to an increase in antibody levels in all patients with IBD.
Guidance and Position of RINN22 regarding Precision Nutrition and Nutriomics
Authors: Ramos-Lopez Omar , Assmann Taís Silveira , Astudillo Muñoz Elcy Yaned , Baquerizo-Sedano Luis , Barrón-Cabrera Elisa , Bernal Claudio Adrián , Bressan Josefina , Cuevas-Sierra Amanda , Dávalos Alberto , De la Cruz-Mosso Ulises , De la Garza Ana Laura , De Luis Daniel A. , Díaz de la Garza Rocío I. , Dos Santos Karina , Fernández-Condori Roxana Carla , Fernández-Quintela Alfredo , Garcia Diaz Diego F. , Gonzalez-Becerra Karina , Lopes Rosado Eliane , López de Las Hazas María-Carmen , Marín Alejandre Bertha Araceli , Angel Martin Alberto , Martinez-Lopez Erika , Martínez-Urbistondo Diego , Milagro Fermin I. , Hermsdorff Helen Hermana M. , Muguerza Begoña , Nicoletti Carolina F. , Obregón Rivas Ana Maria , Parra-Rojas Isela , Portillo Maria Puy , Santos José L. , Steemburgo Thais , Tejero Maria Elizabeth , Terán Anny Cristina , Treviño Victor , Vizmanos Bárbara , Martinez J. Alfredo
Published: November 2024

Background: Precision nutrition is based on the integration of individual’s phenotypical and biological characteristics including genetic variants, epigenetic marks, gut microbiota profiles, and metabolite fingerprints as well as medical history, lifestyle practices, and environmental and cultural factors. Thus, nutriomics areas including nutrigenomics, nutrigenetics, nutriepigenetics, nutrimetabolomics, and nutrimetagenomics have emerged to comprehensively understand the complex interactions between nutrients, diet, and the human body’s molecular processes through precision nutrition. Summary: This document from the Ibero-American Network of Nutriomics and Precision Nutrition (RINN22; https://rinn22.com/) provides a comprehensive overview of the concepts of precision nutrition approaches to guide their application in clinical and public health as well as establish the position of RINN22 regarding the current and future state of precision nutrition. Key Messages: The progress and participation of nutriomics to precision nutrition is an essential pillar for addressing diet-related diseases and developing innovative managing strategies, which will be promoted by advances in bioinformatics, machine learning, and integrative software, as well as the description of specific novel biomarkers. In this context, synthesizing and critically evaluating the latest developments, potential applications, and future needs in the field of nutrition is necessary with a holistic perspective, incorporating progress in omics technologies aimed at precision nutrition interventions. This approach must address and confront healthy, social, food security, physically active lifestyle, sanitation, and sustainability challenges with preventive, participatory, and predictive strategies of personalized, population, and planetary nutrition for a precision tailored health.
Development vs. Rights
Authors: Florence P Sahana , Mishra Achyutananda
Published: November 2024

Human rights and environmental protections are often violated as a consequence of development activities. In addition to harming the environment, this increases the marginalisation of those who are already marginalised. The development paradigm that is based on the interests of the majority not only tends to retard the indigenous people but also renders them incapable of competing with the majority. For the indigenous people, development has always been a problem rather than a solution. Development initiatives under the umbrella of globalisation with a label of monotony, ignore the aspects of the diverse livelihoods of many indigenous peoples. The Niti Aayog proposed in its vision document, the Sustainable Development of Little Andaman, in 2021, that the island should be developed into a megacity by utilising its natural features and strategic location. The long-term objective is to develop the island into a major financial tourism hub that can rival Hong Kong and Singapore. This plan will, on the one hand, advance commerce, employment, and economic growth; on the other hand, environmental conservation issues will also arise. Concerns over this vision document have indeed been voiced by several academics, environmentalists, and conservationists due to issues with Onge indigenous rights, ecological fragility, and earthquake and tsunami susceptibility. In this context, the research article aims to study and analyse the proposed megacity project and its impact on the rights of Onge tribes and the environment.
China’s Research on China is Already Severely Self Semi-Colonialized
Authors: Huang Philip C. C.
Published: November 2024

In a global context, scholarly monographs occupy the most basic and important position in virtually all fields of scholarly endeavor, but China’s policy has been to discourage, even eliminate, the production of scholarly monographs, its intention being to make journal articles the fundamental literature in all fields of study. The result is that monographic studies of China have come to be dominated completely by foreign English-language works, with virtually no research by China’s own scholars. China needs urgently to emphasize once more weighty monographic studies of China in Chinese, to correct what amounts to a self-imposed colonialization of Chinese China studies.
Subjective Theory, Objective Behavior, and Practice Born of the Interaction of the Two
Authors: Huang Philip C. C.
Published: November 2024

Subjective theory is one thing, objective behavior another, but practice born of the interaction of the two is yet another thing.
Cross-Sectional Organizational-Level Survey Data on Civil Society Organizations in the Metropolitan Region of Vienna, Austria
Authors: Terzieva Berta , Maier Florentine , Meyer Michael , Burkart Christian
Published: November 2024

This article introduces a pioneering dataset from a survey of civil society organizations (cso s) in the metropolitan region of Vienna, Austria. The survey was conducted between October 2019 and December 2020 and provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of the civil society sector in Vienna. It comprises a representative sample of 358 cso s and an additional targeted sample of 235 large cso s. The anonymized dataset is stored at the Austrian Social Science Data Archive (aussda). It can be freely accessed after the end of the embargo period in May 2025. The survey includes more than 60 questions covering a wide range of topics, including organizational goals and activities, beneficiary and staff demographics, different forms of organizing and related practices, performance metrics, budgeting, funding sources, and collaborative efforts. The dataset is a valuable resource for scholars interested in studying the inner workings, relationships, and societal contributions of civil society organizations, and it appeals to a variety of scholarly debates.
Transhumanism, Disability, and Human Flourishing
Authors: Guo Rui
Published: November 2024

This paper examines radical enhancement and its presupposed concept of morphological freedom from the perspective of current disability studies, revealing the three basic tendencies of a transhumanist anthropology that overemphasizes human rationality, ignores bodiliness, and accentuates individualism, and pointing out that human flourishing is rooted in a pluralistic coexistence that embraces human vulnerability, which underpins the legal regulation of radical enhancement.
Is Separate Still Unequal? New Evidence on School Segregation and Racial Academic Achievement Gaps
Authors: Reardon Sean F. , Weathers Ericka S. , Fahle Erin M. , Jang Heewon , Kalogrides Demetra
Published: November 2024

U.S. public schools are racially and economically segregated. Prior research shows that the desegregation of Southern schools beginning in the 1960s led to significant benefits for Black students. Less clear, however, is whether segregation today has the same harmful effects as it did 50 years ago and through what mechanisms segregation continues to affect achievement. We estimate the effects of current-day school segregation on racial achievement gaps using 11 years of data from all U.S. public school districts. We find that racial segregation is strongly associated with the magnitude of achievement gaps in 3rd grade and the rate at which gaps grow from 3rd to 8th grade. The association of racial segregation with achievement-gap growth is completely accounted for by racial differences in school poverty. Thus, racial segregation is harmful because it concentrates minority students in high-poverty schools, which are, on average, less effective than lower-poverty schools. Exploratory analyses show that segregation-related between-school differences in teacher characteristics are associated with unequal learning rates and account for roughly 20 percent of the effect of Black–White racial differences in exposure to poverty. Further research is needed to identify mechanisms linking school segregation to achievement-gap growth.
Perioperative Outcomes of Branchial Cleft Sinus Tract Excision in Pediatric Patients Without the Use of Intraoperative Dye
Authors: Habib Daniel R. S. , Jamal Naadir H. , Patel Kalpnaben , Wootten Christopher T. , Belcher Ryan H.
Published: November 2024

Background:

Branchial cleft cysts are pediatric congenital anomalies that can present as sinus tracts to the neck. Intraoperative methylene blue dye with fibrin glue has been suggested as an effective tool for tracking the tract’s depth to help definitively excise. In this large retrospective study of 118 patients spanning a decade, we aim to elucidate outcomes of branchial cleft anomaly excision without methylene blue dye.

Methods:

A retrospective review was conducted with patients who received branchial cleft anomaly (BCA) with sinus tract excision at Monroe Carrell Jr. Children’s Hospital from June 2012 to June 2022. We collected demographic variables, BCA characteristics, perioperative care variables (ie, prior drainage, imaging, and concurrent procedure), and perioperative outcomes (ie, intra- and post-operative complications). Median and interquartile range (IQR) were calculated for continuous demographic variables, and average and standard deviation (SD) were calculated for sinus tract length. Two-tailed Chi-square or Fisher’s exact tests were performed to compare categorical samples where applicable with a statistical significance threshold set a priori at P < .05, and multivariable logistic regression assessed significant associations.

Results:

The sample included 118 patients with an average tract length of 3.3 cm (SD = 1.7 cm). Incision/drainage was performed before definitive excision in 16 (13.6%) patients and was associated with age above the median (aOR = 5.29, 95% CI = 1.39-20.09, P = .015) and female sex (aOR = 3.81, 95% CI = 1.12-13.01, P = .032). Most patients (N = 85, 72.0%) did not receive imaging. Among 118 cases, 2 (1.7%) required return to the operating room for surgical site complications. No patients experienced intra-operative complications or tract recurrence necessitating revision surgery.

Conclusion:

Patients with branchial cleft sinus tracts that were surgically excised without intraoperative dye achieved definitive resection with no recurrence and limited post-operative complications. While not a direct comparison, these results suggest that using intraoperative dye may be associated with unnecessary costs without benefit in outcomes.
Collective Actions and the Digital Markets Act: A Bird Without Wings
Authors: Hornkohl Lena , Ribera Martínez Alba
Published: November 2024

This paper comprehensively analyses collective actions for Digital Markets Act (DMA) violations. The paper first builds on the preliminary objectives for collective actions for DMA violations, including the overall role of private actors in DMA enforcement and the deficits of individual private enforcement. It will analyze why the DMA is particularly prone to collective enforcement. Second, the paper assesses the legal landscape of the DMA for collective actions. On one hand, the paper focuses on collective actions for consumers (in their capacity as end users) under the Representative Actions Directive and its transposition in the EU Member States. On the other hand, the paper will elaborate on other means of collective action, with a focus on collective actions for SMEs and other groups of business users under the DMA, including specific instruments, such as the UCP Directive, the P2B Regulation, or the GDPR, or options based on the effet utile principle, such as the assignment model.
Approach to Different Features of Plastibell Ring Circumcision
Authors: Akhavizadegan Hamed , Afshar Kourosh , Aghamir Seyed Mohammad Kazem
Published: November 2024

Introduction:

In this review article, we aim to illustratively address abnormal and normal courses of Plastibell (a system designed to remove the correct amount of skin) circumcision. We searched 2 target databases, PubMed and Embase, for Plastibell ring circumcision and recruited photos from circumcised children with plasticbell rings. The ordinary postprocedure healing course may resemble abnormal situations such as infection and dehiscence. Conversely, adverse events are rarely noticed by parents. Thus, medical attention is sought when it is not needed and omitted when the specialist may require an intervention.

Conclusion:

Providing a pamphlet illustrating standard normal and abnormal features of plastic bell ring circumcision will decrease family stress, emergency referrals, and preventable complications in this standard procedure.