bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicting the geospatial distribution of Chinese rice nutrient element in regional scale for the geographical origin—A case study on the traceability of Japonica rice
Authors: Sheng Meiling , Li Chunlin , Zhang Weixing , Nie Jing , Hu Hao , Lou Weidong , Deng Xunfei , Shao Shengzhi , Lyu Xiaonan , Ren Zhouqiao , Rogers Karyne M. , Wadood Syed Abdul , Zhang Yongzhi , Yuan Yuwei
Published: July 2024

Effective geographical origin discrimination of Chinese rice requires a large database of samples to ensure sufficient data for origin verification at a regional scale. In this study, environmental similarity was used to establish a spatial database of rice nutrient element, and then the validity of the database was verified using the back propagation artificial neural networks modeling (BPNN). The spatial distribution model of 14 rice nutrient element (Al, Ba, Ca, Cu, Cr, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Mo, Na, Ni, Rb, and Zn) on regional scale was built using an environmental similarity method for the first time. Elemental concentrations of 692 samples were used to build a simulated geographical origin prediction model for northeastern (N‐E), middle to lower Yangtze River plain (Y‐R), southwestern (S‐W), and southeastern (S‐E) in China. The results indicated that the performance of the environmental similarity model for these four growing regions was S‐W > N‐E > S‐E > Y‐R based on the lowest ranking root mean square error (RMSE) for each region. For example, the RMSEs of Zn in S‐W, N‐E, S‐E, and Y‐R regions were 2.0, 2.4, 2.7, and 3.7 mg/kg, respectively. A case study on the traceability of Japonica rice was shown that Japonica rice could be discriminated with higher origin accuracy using a simulated database (91.8%) than by the actual database (87.0%) using the BPNN model. This indicates that a simulated rice element database could improve the accuracy of geographical origin discrimination for Chinese rice and potentially be applied to other large national‐scale crop datasets.
Trade‐offs and Synergies between Economic and Environmental Cocoa Farm Management Decisions
Authors: Bandanaa Joseph , Asante Isaac. K. , Egyir Irene S. , Annang Ted Y. , Blockeel Johan , Heidenreich Anja , Kadzere Irene , Schader Christian
Published: July 2024

Optimizing sustainability among smallholder farms poses challenges due to inherent trade‐offs. In the study of organic and conventional cocoa smallholder farming in Ghana, 398 farms are assessed using the Food and Agriculture Organsation of the United Nations (FAO) Sustainability Assessment of Food and Agriculture systems (SAFA) Guidelines and Sustainability Monitoring and Assessment Routine (SMART)‐Farm Tool. Organic farming exhibited synergies in environmental aspects (e.g., soil quality, energy efficiency) and between biodiversity conservation and risk management. Conventional farming showed potential vulnerabilities, including trade‐offs with long‐range investments (e.g., chemical inputs) and species diversity. Both systems demand tailored approaches for short‐term economic and environmental sustainability, aligning with community‐wide long‐term goals. To mitigate trade‐offs in conventional farming, smallholders should adopt practices like material reuse, recycling, and recovery within their operations.
Commitment capital: Bridging the gap between organizational commitment and human capital resources
Authors: Andersén Jim , Jansson Christian
Published: July 2024

Even though, the human resource management literature has highlighted the importance of having employees that are committed to the organization, research on strategic human capital has yet to fully consider how commitment is related to human capital resources. In order to overcome the dominant individual‐level conceptualization of commitment and to detail how commitment affects human capital resources, we develop the unit‐level concept of commitment capital, which we divide into three levels: affiliative commitment capital, affinitive commitment capital, and absolute commitment capital. These conceptualizations are based on a 10‐year case study and incorporate commitment into a strategic human capital framework, thus bridging the current gap between organizational commitment and human capital resources.
Infant and child mortality in Afghanistan: A scoping review
Authors: Qamar Khulud , Essar Mohammad Yasir , Siddiqui Javeria Arif , Salman Ariba , Salman Yumna , Head Michael G.
Published: July 2024

Background and Aims

Since 1990, global child and infant mortality rates have typically stabilized or decreased due to improved healthcare, vaccination rollouts, and international funding. However, Afghanistan continues to face the highest child and infant mortality rates globally, with 43 deaths per 1000 live births. This study aims to examine the factors contributing to this high mortality rate and propose interventions to address the issue.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search was conducted using databases such as Google Scholar and PubMed, focusing on articles published in English within the last 10 years (2013–2023). The search terms included “Child mortality,” “Infant mortality,” “SIDS,” “COVID‐19,” and “Afghanistan.” Original studies, systematic reviews, case studies, and reports meeting the inclusion criteria were selected for analysis. Additional sources from organizations such as UNICEF, the World Bank Group, WHO, and EMRO were also reviewed.

Results

The study findings reveal significant challenges contributing to Afghanistan's high infant and child mortality rates. These challenges include birth defects, preterm birth, malnutrition, sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), traumatic injuries, fatal infections, infanticide, and abuse. The ongoing conflict, insecurity, and humanitarian crises further exacerbate the situation, leading to increased child casualties. Despite efforts by international agencies like UNICEF to provide vaccines and maternal education, the infant mortality rate remains high.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Afghanistan's child and infant mortality rates are of significant concern, and it is imperative that action be taken to reduce the incidence of child and infant mortality rates.
Short‐term ozone exposure and cancer mortality in Brazil: A nationwide case‐crossover study
Authors: Yu Pei , Xu Rongbin , Huang Wenzhong , Yang Zhengyu , Coelho Micheline S. Z. S. , Saldiva Paulo H. N. , Wen Bo , Wu Yao , Ye Tingting , Zhang Yiwen , Sun Haitong Z. , Abramson Michael J. , Li Shanshan , Guo Yuming
Published: July 2024

Exposure to ambient ozone (O3) is linked to increased mortality risks from various diseases, but epidemiological investigations delving into its potential implications for cancer mortality are limited. We aimed to examine the association between short‐term O3 exposure and site‐specific cancer mortality and investigate vulnerable subgroups in Brazil. In total 3,459,826 cancer death records from 5570 Brazilian municipalities between 2000 and 2019, were included. Municipal average daily O3 concentration was calculated from a global estimation at 0.25°×0.25° spatial resolution. The time‐stratified case‐crossover design was applied to assess the O3‐cancer mortality association. Subgroup analyses by age, sex, season, time‐period, region, urban hierarchy, climate classification, quantiles of GDP per capita and illiteracy rates were performed. A linear and non‐threshold exposure‐response relationship was observed for short‐term exposure to O3 with cancer mortality, with a 1.00% (95% CI: 0.79%–1.20%) increase in all‐cancer mortality risks for each 10‐μg/m3 increment of three‐day average O3. Kidney cancer was most strongly with O3 exposure, followed by cancers of the prostate, stomach, breast, lymphoma, brain and lung. The associated cancer risks were relatively higher in the warm season and in southern Brazil, with a decreasing trend over time. When restricting O3 concentration to the national minimum value during 2000–2019, a total of 147,074 (116,690–177,451) cancer deaths could be avoided in Brazil, which included 17,836 (7014–28,653) lung cancer deaths. Notably, these associations persisted despite observed adaptation within the Brazilian population, highlighting the need for a focus on incorporating specific measures to mitigate O3 exposure into cancer care recommendations.
Anticancer activity of Araguspongine C via inducing apoptosis, and inhibition of oxidative stress, inflammation, and EGFR‐TK in human lung cancer cells: An in vitro and in vivo study
Authors: Li Zhe , Yu Hongjiang , Hussain Shaik Althaf , Yang Rui
Published: July 2024

The advanced non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that harbors epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations has put a selective pressure on the discovery and development of newer EGFR inhibitors. Therefore, the present study intends to explore the pharmacological effect of Araguspongine C (Aragus‐C) as anticancer agent against lung cancer. The effect of Aragus‐C was evaluated on the viability of the A549 and H1975 cells. Further biochemical assays were performed to elaborate the effect of Aragus‐C, on the apoptosis, cell‐cycle analysis, and mitochondrial membrane potential in A549 cells. Western blot analysis was also conducted to determine the expression of EGFR in A549 cells. Tumor xenograft mice model from A549 cells was established to further elaborate the pharmacological activity of Aragus‐C. Results suggest that Aragus C showed significant inhibitory activity against A549 cells as compared to H1975 cells. It has been found that Aragus‐C causes the induction of apoptosis and promotes cell‐cycle arrest at the G2/M phase of A549 cells. It also showed a reduction in the overexpression of EGFR in A549 cells. In tumor xenograft mice model, it showed a significant reduction of tumor volume in a dose‐dependent manner, with maximum inhibitory activity was reported by the 8 mg/kg treated group. It also showed significant anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant activity by reducing the level of TNF‐α, IL‐1β, IL‐6, and MDA, with a simultaneous increase of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase. We have demonstrated the potent anti‐lung cancer activity of Aragus‐C, and it may be considered as a potential therapeutic choice for NSCLC treatment.
An exploration of counselors of color working in the eating disorder field
Authors: Biang Amy , Merlin‐Knoblich Clare , Lim Jae Hoon
Published: July 2024

Among eating disorder (ED) professionals, counselors of color (COCs) are underrepresented. Given the prevalence of EDs among people of all racial and ethnic backgrounds, as well as the low number of COCs working in the profession and its problematic implications, this study is warranted to include the experiences of COCs in EDs and understand how to grow the specialty with counselors of all backgrounds. In this study, we interviewed 10 COCs and analyzed transcripts using a post‐intentional phenomenological design. Tentative manifestations of unprepared, isolating spaces, unspoken knowing, and exhaustion, as well as provocations of cultural inclusion, changemaker, and vulnerability, emerged. We present implications, limitations, and research considerations.
mTORC2: A neglected player in aging regulation
Authors: Xu Weitong , Chen Honghan , Xiao Hengyi
Published: July 2024

Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a serine/threonine kinase that plays a pivotal role in various biological processes, through integrating external and internal signals, facilitating gene transcription and protein translation, as well as by regulating mitochondria and autophagy functions. mTOR kinase operates within two distinct protein complexes known as mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) and mTOR complex 2 (mTORC2), which engage separate downstream signaling pathways impacting diverse cellular processes. Although mTORC1 has been extensively studied as a pro‐proliferative factor and a pro‐aging hub if activated aberrantly, mTORC2 received less attention, particularly regarding its implication in aging regulation. However, recent studies brought increasing evidence or clues for us, which implies the associations of mTORC2 with aging, as the genetic elimination of unique subunits of mTORC2, such as RICTOR, has been shown to alleviate aging progression in comparison to mTORC1 inhibition. In this review, we first summarized the basic characteristics of mTORC2, including its protein architecture and signaling network. We then focused on reviewing the molecular signaling regulation of mTORC2 in cellular senescence and organismal aging, and proposed the multifaceted regulatory characteristics under senescent and nonsenescent contexts. Next, we outlined the research progress of mTOR inhibitors in the field of antiaging and discussed future prospects and challenges. It is our pleasure if this review article could provide meaningful information for our readers and call forth more investigations working on this topic.
Neuromedin S regulates goat ovarian granulosa cell proliferation and steroidogenesis via endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+‐YAP1‐ATF4‐c‐Jun pathway
Authors: Sun Xuan , Xia Rongxin , Wang Yifei , Wang Feng , Liu Zhipeng , Xue Gang , Zhang Guomin
Published: July 2024

Neuromedin S (NMS) plays key roles in reproductive regulation, while its function and mechanism in follicular development remain unclear. The current study aims to investigate the specific role and mechanisms of NMS and its receptors in regulating the proliferation and steroidogenesis of ovarian granulosa cells (GCs). Phenotypically, a certain concentration of NMS addition promoted the proliferation and estrogen production of goat GCs, accompanied by an increase in the G1/S cell population and upregulation of the expression levels of cyclin D1, cyclin dependent kinase 6, steroidogenic acute regulatory protein, cytochrome P450, family 11, subfamily A, polypeptide 1, 3beta‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, and cytochrome P450, family 11, subfamily A, polypeptide 1, while the effects of NMS treatment were effectively hindered by knockdown of neuromedin U receptor type 2 (NMUR2). Mechanistically, activation of NMUR2 with NMS maintained endoplasmic reticulum (ER) calcium (Ca2+) homeostasis by triggering the PLCG1‐IP3R pathway, which helped preserve ER morphology, sustained an appropriate level of endoplasmic reticulum unfolded protein response (UPRer), and suppressed the nuclear translocation of activating transcription factor 4. Moreover, NMS maintained intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis to activate the calmodulin 1‐large tumor suppressor kinase 1 pathway, ultimately orchestrating the regulation of goat GC proliferation and estrogen production through the Yes1 associated transcriptional regulator‐ATF4‐c‐Jun pathway. Crucially, the effects of NMS were mitigated by concurrent knockdown of the NMUR2 gene. Collectively, these data suggest that activation of NMUR2 by NMS enhances cell proliferation and estrogen production in goat GCs through modulating the ER and intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis, leading to activation of the YAP1‐ATF4‐c‐Jun pathway. These findings offer valuable insights into the regulatory mechanisms involved in follicular growth and development, providing a novel perspective for future research.
Curcumin‐activated Wnt5a pathway mediates Ca2+ channel opening to affect myoblast differentiation and skeletal muscle regeneration
Authors: Wang Mao‐yuan , Yang Jia‐ming , Wu Yi , Li Hai , Zhong Yan‐biao , Luo Yun , Xie Rui‐lian
Published: July 2024

Background

Skeletal muscle injury is one of the most common sports injuries; if not properly treated or not effective rehabilitation treatment after injury, it can be transformed into chronic cumulative injury. Curcumin, an herbal ingredient, has been found to promote skeletal muscle injury repair and regeneration. The Wnt5a pathway is related to the expression of myogenic regulatory factors, and Ca2+ promotes the differentiation and fusion process of myoblasts. This study explored the effect and mechanism of curcumin on myoblast differentiation during the repair and regeneration of injured skeletal muscle and its relationship with the Wnt5a pathway and Ca2+ channel.

Methods

Myogenic differentiation of C2C12 cells was induced with 2% horse serum, and a mouse (male, 10 weeks old) model of acute skeletal muscle injury was established using cardiotoxin (20 μL). In addition, we constructed a Wnt5a knockdown C2C12 cell model and a Wnt5a knockout mouse model. Besides, curcumin was added to the cell culture solution (80 mg/L) and fed to the mice (50 mg/kg). Fluorescence microscopy was used to determine the concentration of Ca2+. Western blot and RT‐qPCR were used to detect the protein and mRNA levels of Wnt5a, CaN, NFAT2, MyoD, Myf5, Pax7, and Myogenin. The expression levels of MyoD, Myf5, Myogenin, MHC, Desmin, and NFAT2 were detected using immunofluorescence techniques. In addition, MyoD expression was observed using immunohistochemistry, and morphological changes in mouse muscle tissue were observed using HE staining.

Results

During myoblast differentiation and muscle regeneration, Wnt5a expression was upregulated (P < 0.001) and the Wnt5a signalling pathway was activated. Wnt5a overexpression promoted the expression of MyoD, Myf5, Myogenin, MHC, and Desmin (P < 0.05), and conversely, knockdown of Wnt5a inhibited their expression (P < 0.001). The Wnt5a pathway mediated the opening of Ca2+ channels, regulated the expression levels of CaN, NFAT2, MyoD, Myf5, Myogenin, MHC, and Desmin (P < 0.01) and promoted the differentiation of C2C12 myoblasts and the repair and regeneration of injured skeletal muscle. The expression of Wnt5a, CaN, NFAT2, MyoD, Myogenin, Myf5, and MHC in C2C12 myoblast was significantly increased after curcumin intervention (P < 0.05); however, their expression decreased significantly after knocking down Wnt5a on the basis of curcumin intervention (P < 0.05). Similarly, in Wnt5a knockout mice, the promotion of muscle regeneration by curcumin was significantly attenuated.

Conclusions

Curcumin can activate the Wnt5a signalling pathway and mediate the opening of Ca2+ channels to accelerate the myogenic differentiation of C2C12 cells and the repair and regeneration of injured skeletal muscle.
Methacrylonitrile‐based adsorbents for recovery of VFAs from fermentation broth
Authors: Elhami Vahideh , Ronka Sylwia , Schuur Boelo
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

Adsorption is a promising affinity separation technique to target a sorbate in extremely dilute solutions. In this work, methacrylonitrile (MAN)‐functionalized resins were investigated to recover volatile fatty acids (VFAs) from a mimicked fermentation broth as an alternative for the already known amine‐based resins and non‐functionalized poly(styrene‐divinylbenzene) (PS‐DVB), aiming for high VFA capacity and selectivity.

RESULTS

Next to comparison with commercial PS‐DVB resin, also several PS‐DVB resins were synthesized as non‐functionalized analogues for the new MAN‐functionalized resins. For MAN‐functionalized resins, the maximum equilibrium VFA loading of about 153 (g acid/kg adsorbent) was found, which is higher than the 125 (g acid/kg adsorbent) for the PS‐DVB non‐functionalized resins. The water uptake of the PS‐DVB resins was with 0.53–0.87 (g water/g adsorbent) significantly lower than for the MAN‐DVB resins taking up 0.99–1.85 (g water/g adsorbent).

CONCLUSION

Overall, the MAN‐functionalized adsorbents retained higher loading capacity for corresponding acid, compared to the PS‐DVB resins, while also taking in more water. Acid uptake is due to the hydrogen bonding between the nitrile groups of the resins with carboxyl group of the acids. Moreover, none of the adsorbents displayed an affinity towards the salts present in the fermentation broth. © 2024 The Author(s). Journal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Novel base‐catalyzed acylation of benzenediols with vinyl acetate: a Hirshfeld surface study
Authors: Ali Imran , Isaev Alexey Yu , Chichigina Yana M , Nakov Daniil D , Shigabaeva Gulnara N , Galunin Evgeny V , Locatelli Marcello , Almarhoon Zainab M
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

The present work describes the facile, fast and economic base‐catalyzed acylation of benzenediols with vinyl acetate. The Hirshfeld surface analysis of benzene‐1,4‐diol O,O′‐diacetate is also described. NaOH, KOH and K2CO3 were the bases used for the catalysis of the acylation of benzene‐1,x‐diols (x = 2, 3, 4) with vinyl acetate to obtain the corresponding O,O′‐diacetyl derivatives.

RESULTS

The yields were quite good, up to 99% under solvent‐free conditions. This method represents an alternative ‘green’ process for the preparation of O‐acetyl derivatives of hydroxyaryls. The benzene‐1,4‐diol O,O′‐diacetate crystal structure was obtained and described using Hirshfeld surface analysis. A noticeable contribution of the C⋯H contacts is shown (16.7%), despite the insignificant area of the Hirshfeld surface occupied by the carbon atoms (9.4%). By using two‐dimensional fingerprint plots, it was proved that C⋯H contacts were due to the presence of π‐stacking. The O⋯H contacts (41.4%) were the most numerous ones, relating mainly to typical hydrogen bonds (de + di ≈ 2.6 Å). The high saturation of the C⋯H and O⋯H contacts (enrichment ratios (E) = 1.30 and 1.36, respectively), despite their smaller contribution to the overall surface as compared to the H⋯H contacts (E = 0.84), is shown.

CONCLUSION

The novelty of this work is the development of a method based on an inexpensive, safe and easy‐to‐use catalyst (K2CO3). This method is fast with high yields. Besides, it may be used for acylation at an industrial scale. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Dental students’ Myers‐Briggs Type Indicator personality profile in the past 50 years: Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Li Chenshuang , Azami Niloufar , Campos Hugo , Chan Michael , Van Anne Doan , Tisot Pamela , Goolsby Susie
Published: July 2024

Background

Dental students’ personalities are strongly correlated with their didactic and clinical performances. With the significant changes in the social environment in the past decades, students’ personalities may also change dramatically. Additionally, with the increasing number of international students admitted into US dental programs, educators must pay attention to the potential personality differences between domestic and international students.

Background

A systematic review focusing on the Myers‐Briggs Type Indicator personality types of dental students was conducted with 11 literature databases following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses guideline. The quality assessment of each included article was conducted following the Joanna Briggs Institute Prevalence Critical Appraisal Tool. Meta‐analyses were conducted for each personality type within the United States in the past 50 years, and in each country in the past 20 years.

Results

Eighteen articles (17 reports) were included after the eligibility assessment. The longitudinal trends within the United States showed the predominant two personality types have changed from Extraversion, Sensing, Feeling, and Judging (ESFJ) and Extraversion, Sensing, Thinking, and Judging (ESTJ) to ESTJ and Introversion, Sensing, Thinking, and Judging (ISTJ) during the past 50 years. When comparing different countries, the United States, China, Korea, and Iran have the same two dominant personality types (ESTJ and ISTJ) but not the Philippines (Extraversion, Intuition, Feeling, and Perceiving and Introversion, Intuition, Feeling, and Perceiving). However, there are large variations in the prevalence of other personality types.

Conclusion

There have been constant changes in the predominant personalities of dental students over the years. Additionally, understanding the diversity of personality types within the United States as well as among different countries could serve as the foundation for further improvements in teaching strategies and student support services.
Rose bengal photocatalyzed expeditious multicomponent synthesis of 3,4‐dihydropyrimidin‐2‐(1H)‐ones/thiones under visible light irradiation
Authors: Patel Divyani P. , Patel Vishwa K. , Singh Satish Kumar
Published: July 2024

The combination of visible light, a renewable and green energy source, and rose bengal, a non‐toxic organic dye as a photoredox catalyst, is an easy and efficient method for synthesizing 3,4‐dihydropyrimidin‐2(1H)‐ones/thiones in EtOH at ambient temperature in very short reaction time. The present work offers simple operation, easy workup, rapid conversion, and excellent product yields, while accommodating a wide range of substrates. Rose bengal‐based photocatalytic approach permits foremost sustainability, which delivers economic and environmental rewards.
Applying the Effective Programme Coverage framework to assess gaps in HIV prevention programmes for female sex workers and men who have sex with men in Nairobi, Kenya: findings from an expanded Polling Booth Survey
Authors: Bhattacharjee Parinita , McClarty Leigh , Isac Shajy , Kimani Joshua , Emmanuel Faran , Kabuti Rhoda , Kinyua Antony , Kombo Bernadette Kina , Owek Collins , Musyoki Helgar , Kiplagat Anthony , Arimi Peter , Shaw Souradet Yuh‐Nan , Gandhi Monica , Malone Siobhan , Blanchard James , Garnett Geoff , Becker Marissa L.
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Measuring the coverage of HIV prevention services for key populations (KPs) has consistently been a challenge for national HIV programmes. The current frameworks and measurement methods lack emphasis on effective coverage, occur infrequently, lack timeliness and limit the participation of KPs. The Effective Programme Coverage framework, which utilizes a programme science approach, provides an opportunity to assess gaps in various coverage domains and explore the underlying reasons for these gaps, in order to develop targeted solutions. We have demonstrated the application of this framework in partnership with the KP community in Nairobi, Kenya, using an expanded Polling Booth Survey (ePBS) method.

Methods

Data were collected between April and May 2023 among female sex workers (FSWs) and men who have sex with men (MSM) using (a) PBS, (b) bio‐behavioural survey and (c) focus group discussions. Data collection and analysis involved both KP community and non‐community researchers. Descriptive analysis was performed, and proportions were used to assess the programme coverage gaps. The data were weighted to account for the sampling design and unequal selection probabilities. Thematic analysis was conducted on the qualitative data.

Results

The condom programme for FSW and MSM had low availability (60.2% and 50.9%), contact (68.8% and 65.9%) and utilization (52.1% and 43.9%) coverages. The pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) programme had very low utilization coverage for FSW and MSM (4.4% and 2.8%), while antiretroviral therapy utilization coverage was higher (86.6% and 87.7%). Reasons for coverage gaps included a low peer educator‐to‐peer ratio, longer distance to the clinics, shortage of free condoms supplied by the government, experienced and anticipated side effects related to PrEP, and stigma and discrimination experienced in the facilities.

Conclusions

The Effective Programme Coverage framework allows programmes to assess coverage gaps and develop solutions and a research agenda targeted at specific domains of coverage with large gaps. The ePBS method works well in collecting data to understand coverage gaps rapidly and allows for the engagement of the KP community.
ChemsexPH: The association between chemsex, HIV status and adherence to antiretroviral therapy among men who have sex with men in the Philippines
Authors: Olete Rodenie Arnaiz , Strong Carol , Leyritana Katerina , Bourne Adam , Ko Nai‐Ying Monica
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Chemsex, the use of psychotropic drugs before or during sexual intercourse, is associated with various HIV risk factors, including condomless sex and reduced adherence to pre‐exposure prophylaxis or antiretroviral therapy (ART). In the Philippines, there are still limited studies exploring the associations between chemsex, HIV status and ART adherence. This study aims to compare recent and lifetime chemsex engagement in association with self‐reported HIV status among Filipino men who have sex with men (MSM). We further explored the association between chemsex and ART adherence among people living with HIV engaged in chemsex.

Methods

A cross‐sectional online survey of 479 Filipino MSM was conducted from 3 August to 1 December 2019. Demographic profiles, sexual behaviours, drug use, history of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), chemsex engagement and HIV status were collected and analysed. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression were employed to assess the association between self‐reported HIV status and chemsex engagement.

Results

Among the 479 respondents, Filipino MSM engaged in drug use and chemsex were generally older compared to those not engaged in drug use and chemsex (average age 31−33 vs. 29 years old; p<0.05). Methamphetamine was the most common drug for people who reported using drugs. An HIV‐positive status was associated with recent chemsex engagement (aOR = 5.18, p<0.05) and a history of STIs (aOR = 2.09, p<0.05). The subgroup analysis showed that 79% (166/200) of persons living with HIV were adherent to ART. There was no significant association found between chemsex and ART adherence in the logistic regression analyses.

Conclusions

Chemsex behaviour, particularly recent chemsex engagement, is significantly associated with self‐reported HIV status. The emerging data on MSM engaged in chemsex require integration of a more person‐centred, comprehensive and robust harm reduction programmes into the existing combination prevention strategies in the country. Health education for Filipino MSM engaged in chemsex should prioritize raising awareness about methamphetamine effects and overdose risks, alongside proper medical management.
Enhanced resistance of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum by expression of albumin
Authors: Ding Tongren , Wang Guangqiang , Tang Liuqian , Xia Yongjun , Song Xin , Yang Yijin , Ai Lianzhong
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

Human serum albumin (HSA) is the most abundant protein in plasma, playing crucial roles in regulating osmotic pressure and maintaining protein homeostasis. It is widely applied in the clinical treatment of various diseases. HSA can be purified from plasma or produced using recombinant DNA technology. Due to the improved efficiency and reduced costs, a growing body of research has focused on enhancing albumin production through bacterial strain overexpression. However, there have been few studies on the effect of albumin on the characteristics of the overexpressing‐strain itself, particularly stress resistance. In this study, we utilized Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (L. plantarum) AR113 as the expression host and successfully constructed the albumin overexpression strain AR113‐pLLY01 through gene editing technology. The successful expression of albumin was achieved and subsequently compared with the wild‐type strain AR113‐pIB184.

RESULTS

The results demonstrated that the survival rate of AR113‐pLLY01 was also significantly better than that of AR113‐pIB184 after lyophilization. In addition, AR113‐pLLY01 exhibited a significantly better protective effect than AR113‐pIB184 at pH 3, indicating that albumin possesses a certain tolerance to acidic stress. At bile salt concentrations higher than 0.03%, both strains showed limited growth, but at a concentration of 0.02%, AR113‐pLLY01 had a significant protective effect.

CONCLUSION

This study suggest that albumin can improve strain tolerance, which has significant implications for future applications. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Mapping China's reserved arable lands and its sustainable cropping layout
Authors: Chen Huicong , He Yingbin , Wang Xiangyi , Luo Shanjun , Jiao Yifan , Han Shengnan
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

Reserved arable lands in China is of great significance for rationally allocating crop planting structures, alleviating the pressure of grain imports, and protecting food security. Owing to data acquisition limitations, obtaining the spatial distribution of reserved arable lands at large spatial scales is relatively rare, and there is little information on predicting the suitability, production capacity, and ecological effects of crop cultivation in reserved arable lands. This study obtained the distribution of reserved arable lands in China by applying restrictive factors, and used the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) suitability index for eight crops to obtain a spatial distribution map of suitable crops, proposed a cropland ecological efficiency index (CEEI) to analyse the ecological impact of crop cultivation in reserved arable lands.

RESULTS

China possesses approximately 3.93 million hectares of viable reserved arable lands comprising primarily grasslands (67.68%), sandy land (8.11%), saline‐alkali land (20.68%), and bare land (3.53%). The average CEEI for the eight crops under irrigation conditions ranges from 0.844 to 0.865, and that under rain‐fed conditions (excluding rice) ranges from 0.609 to 0.779.

CONCLUSION

We proposed the development of rain‐fed agriculture with sorghum as the primary crop in the central part of Shanxi and Inner Mongolia, while promoting the cultivation of rapeseed and soybeans in the eastern parts of Heilongjiang, Jilin, and Inner Mongolia. Overall, the development of irrigation agriculture focusing on wheat and barley should be pursued only when water resources are guaranteed, particularly in north‐western regions such as Gansu, Ningxia, Xinjiang, Qinghai, and Shaanxi. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
A comprehensive strategy based on ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography with diode array detector fingerprinting and multi‐component ultra‐performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry technology for quality control of Jiawei Huoxiang Zhengqi Pill
Authors: Lu Yang , Lei Ting , Chen Xinyang , Ning Na , Huang Qiuling , Wu Xu , Wang Shengpeng , Li Peng , Wan Li , Cao Jiliang
Published: July 2024

Jiawei Huoxiang Zhengqi Pill (JHZP) is a commonly used Chinese patent medicine for the clinical treatment of headache, dizziness, chest tightness as well as abdominal distension, and pain caused by wind‐cold flu. In this study, a comprehensive strategy combining ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography with diode array detector (UHPLC‐DAD) fingerprinting and multi‐component quantitative analysis was established and validated for quality evaluation of JHZP. A total of 49 characteristic common peaks were selected in a chromatographic fingerprinting study to assess the similarity of 15 batches of JHZP. Furthermore, 109 compounds were identified or preliminarily identified from JHZP by coupling with an advanced hybrid linear ion trap‐Orbitrap mass spectrometer. For quantification, the optimized ultra‐performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC‐MS/MS) method was employed for the simultaneous determination of 13 target compounds within 12 min. The sensitivity, precision, reproducibility, and accuracy of the method were satisfactory. This validated UPLC‐MS/MS method was successfully applied to analyzing 15 batches of JHZP. The proposed comprehensive strategy combining UHPLC‐DAD fingerprinting and multi‐component UPLC‐MS/MS analysis proved to be highly efficient, accurate, and reliable for the quality evaluation of JHZP, which can be considered as a reference for the overall quality evaluation of other Chinese herbal formulations.
Quantification of amino acids secreted by yeast cells by hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Yin Xiongwei , Sousa Luís Santos , André Bruno , Adams Erwin , Van Schepdael Ann
Published: July 2024

Monitoring the levels of amino acids (AAs) in biological cell cultures provides key information to understand the regulation of cell growth and metabolism. Saccharomyces cerevisiae can naturally excrete AAs, making accurate detection and determination of amino acid levels within the cultivation medium pivotal for gaining insights into this still poorly known process. Given that most AAs lack ultraviolet (UV) chromophores or fluorophores necessary for UV and fluorescence detection, derivatization is commonly utilized to enhance amino acid detectability via UV absorption. Unfortunately, this can lead to drawbacks such as derivative instability, labor intensiveness, and poor reproducibility. Hence, this study aimed to develop an accurate and stable hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry analytical method for the separation of all 20 AAs within a short 17‐min run time. The method provides satisfactory linearity and sensitivity for all analytes. The method has been validated for intra‐ and inter‐day precision, accuracy, recovery, matrix effect, and stability. It has been successfully applied to quantify 20 AAs in samples of yeast cultivation medium. This endeavor seeks to enhance our comprehension of amino acid profiles in the context of cell growth and metabolism within yeast cultivation media.
CEO stock option pay and risk‐taking investment in the hospitality industry: The moderating effects of situational factors
Authors: Song Sujin , Sun Kyung‐A , Park Sungbeen
Published: July 2024

Based upon behavioral perspective and agency theory, this paper attempts to investigate the effect of CEO stock option pay on firms' risk‐taking investments in the restaurant sector. Specifically, this paper proposes that option‐loaded CEOs tend to make risky investments. In addition, we investigate how the prior stock performance of a firm and its CEOs' characteristics moderate this relationship. The findings of this paper show that option‐loaded CEOs are more likely to engage in risk‐taking investments. However, this positive main relationship is diminished when a firm has a good prior stock performance, when a CEO has a longer tenure, and when he or she becomes aged. Given the lack of empirical literature that explores the corporate governance in the hospitality literature, this study adds value to the existing research by further investigating the effect of CEO stock option pay scheme on restaurant firms' risk‐taking behavior.
Anterior cruciate ligament injuries in elite badminton athletes: 84% Return to sport, half return to performance
Authors: Tan Yuhan , Kaldau Niels Christian , Lumban‐Gaol Imelda , Budhiparama Nicolaas C. , Peers Koenraad
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Badminton requires fast and pivoting movements, putting athletes at risk of sustaining an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. The primary purpose is to investigate the return to sport (RTS) and the return to performance (RTP) after an ACL injury in elite badminton athletes. The secondary purpose is to describe ACL injury mechanisms in elite badminton players.

Methods

Athletes within the top 200 of the Badminton World Federation World Ranking who sustained an ACL injury between January 2001 and December 2021 were retrospectively included. An anonymous online survey was created in eight languages. RTS, RTP and contributing factors were analysed among athletes aiming to RTP. The injury mechanism was analysed in all participants.

Results

Sixty‐six athletes from 32 countries were included. Fifty‐seven athletes (86.4%) aimed to RTP. Forty‐eight out of 57 (84.2%) did RTS. Twenty‐nine (50.9%) managed to successfully RTP. Forty‐nine (74.2%) of ACL injuries occurred during a competition, 14 (21.2%) occured during training. Thirty‐one (49.2%) occurred in the rear court backhand side and 47 (74.6%) occurred during landing after a jump.

Conclusion

Forty‐eight out of 57 (84.2%) athletes managed to RTS. Half of the athletes managed to successfully RTP. Most of the ACL injuries occurred during competition, in the rear court backhand side and during landing after a jump.

Level of Evidence

Level III.
Femorotibial angle scan–rescan reproducibility: A high‐precision calculation on a large cohort
Authors: Hall Thomas A. G. , Jones Gareth G. , van Arkel Richard J.
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Femorotibial angle (FTA) is a convenient measure of coronal knee alignment that can be extracted from a short knee radiograph, avoiding the additional radiation exposure and specialist equipment required for full‐leg radiographs. While intra‐ and inter‐reader reproducibility from the same image has been reported, the full scan–rescan reproducibility across images, as calculated in this study, has not.

Methods

In this study, 4589 FTA measurement pairs from 2586 subjects acquired a year apart were used to estimate FTA scan–rescan reproducibility using data from the Osteoarthritis Initiative. Subjects with radiographic progression of osteoarthritis or other conditions that may cause a change in coronal knee alignment were excluded. Measurement pairs were analysed using paired‐samples  tests to detect differences and compared to symptomatic changes in Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index scores for joint pain, stiffness and physical function to detect correlations.

Results

The 95% limit of agreement and the paired‐samples correlation were calculated with high precision to be [−1.76°, +1.78°] and 0.938, considerably worse than the corresponding figures for intra‐ and inter‐reader reproducibility, without relation to symptomatic or radiographic changes in knee condition. This error will weakly attenuate and values from their true values in correlative studies involving FTA. The realistic maximum value for is 87% and for Pearson's is 93%.

Conclusion

The scan–rescan reproducibility in FTA is almost double the intra‐ and inter‐reader reliability from a single scan. At almost ±2° accuracy, FTA is inappropriate for surgical use, but it is sufficiently reproducible to produce good correlations in studies predicting disease incidence and progression.

Level of Evidence

Level II, retrospective study.
Arthroscopy‐assisted procedure provides less residual horizontal instability and optimal coracoid tunnel creation with less radiation exposure compared to percutaneous procedure after endo‐button fixation of type III AC joint dislocations
Authors: İğrek Servet , Şahbat Yavuz , Yiğit Okan , Yuvacı Fatih , Keskin Ahmet , İğde Niyazi , Dedeoğlu Süleyman Semih
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study was to evaluate the postoperative radiological and functional results of patients treated with arthroscopy‐assisted (AA) and percutaneous (P) procedures using endo‐button for type III acromioclavicular joint dislocations with a minimum 1‐year follow‐up. The study hypothesis was that the AA technique would provide more favourable coracoid tunnels.

Methods

This retrospective study included patients who underwent surgery between 2017 and 2022. Computed tomography images taken immediately postoperatively of all the patients were analysed to group coracoid tunnels as optimal or suboptimal based on orientation and placement within the coracoid base. Residual horizontal instability was assessed using the bilateral Alexander view at the final follow‐up. Shoulder functions were evaluated at the final follow‐up examination.

Results

Of the 63 patients, 39 underwent surgery using the percutaneous procedure and 24 with the AA procedure. Surgical duration was significantly longer in the AA group (AA: 61.1 ± 5.9 min; P: 34.7 ± 5.6 min) (p = 0.001; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 23.3–29.3), whereas fluoroscopy time was longer in the percutaneous group (AA: 2.0 ± 0.8 s; P: 15.7 ± 3.9 s) (p = 0.001; 95% CI: −14.9 to 12.3). Optimal coracoid tunnels were more frequently observed in the AA group (p = 0.001; 95% CI: 7.4−137.8). There was no significant difference in functional scores between the groups (n.s.). Postoperative horizontal instability was more common in the percutaneous procedure (p = 0.013; 95% CI: 8.3–39.2).

Conclusions

Although no difference was detected between the methods in terms of complications and functional results, the higher frequency of residual horizontal instability, the high risk of suboptimal tunnel creation and greater radiation exposure were seen to be the most important disadvantages of the percutaneous technique. During surgery, such technical problems related to the percutaneous method should be kept in mind and care should be taken about the orientation of the coracoid tunnel.

Level of Evidence

Level III.
Fibula Free Flap Reconstruction of Cervical Spine Defects: A Multi‐Institutional Study
Authors: Yang Sara , Morton Zoey , Colcord Maddie , Jackson Ryan S. , Moore Eric J. , Thuener Jason , Bewley Arnaud F. , Coughlin Andrew , Khariwala Samir S. , Richmon Jeremy D. , Pipkorn Patrik , Winters Ryan , Militsakh Oleg N. , Zender Chad A. , Wright James , Wax Mark K.
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Cervical spine defects result in spinal instability, putting the spinal cord and vertebral arteries at risk of damage and possibly devastating neurological injuries. The fibula free flap can span the spinal defects for stability. There is a paucity of literature on this technique.

Method

Multi‐institutional retrospective case series reviewing patients who underwent cervical spine reconstruction with a fibula free flap. Patient demographic information, comorbidities, characteristics of cervical spine defects, and free flap complications were collected.

Results

A total of 1187 fibula free flaps across 10 different institutions were reviewed. Thirteen patients (1.09%) underwent cervical spine reconstruction with a fibula free flap. Average age was 52.3 years old with an age range of 12–79 years. There were six males (46.1%) and seven females (53.8%). The most common defect etiology was infection (n = 6, 46.1%). Most commonly involved cervical spine level of the defect was C5 (n = 10) followed by C6 (n = 9) and C4 (n = 8). The majority of reconstructed defects spanned three or more cervical levels, (n = 9, 69.2%). Facial artery was the most common arterial anastomosis (n = 8). Eight patients (61.5%) required a tracheostomy during their postoperative course. None of the patients had symptomatic or radiographic nonunion.

Conclusion

This case series demonstrates that a vascularized fibula flap is a potential reconstructive option for cervical spine defects, especially in defects greater than three cervical levels, in the setting of infection, and previously radiated patients.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 134:4923–4928, 2024
Traumatic Vocal Fold Paralysis from Fishbone Foreign Body: Diagnosis and Management
Authors: Corbisiero Michaele Francesco , Wershoven Nicole , Clary Matthew , Cervenka Brian
Published: July 2024

Fish bone foreign bodies (FFBs) are relatively common but can present diagnostic challenges. Herein, we report a case of a 43‐year‐old female who initially presented to the Emergency Department with fever and throat discomfort after a choking incident, which led to a misdiagnosis of a viral infection after negative chest X‐ray findings. Persistent symptoms, including new‐onset vocal cord paralysis, prompted further investigation and an otolaryngology — head and neck surgery referral one month later. During the otolaryngology visit eight months after the initial incident, laryngoscopy revealed left true vocal cord paralysis and a subsequent CT scan revealed a 2.3 cm fishbone in the esophagus. Surgical removal involved flexible esophagoscopy and open neck exploration with careful dissection to avoid vascular injury. This case highlights the limitations of initial diagnostic methods, such as X‐rays, and the necessity for heightened clinical vigilance and advanced imaging modalities like CT scans for persistent or evolving symptoms, particularly vocal cord paralysis. This case also supports multidisciplinary surgical management in cases of suspected esophageal FFBs involving the internal jugular vein and common carotid artery to prevent serious complications. Laryngoscope, 134:5062–5065, 2024