bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isolation and Identifi cation of Postharvest Fungal Pathogens of Some Selected Fruits in Yunnan, China
Authors:   College of Resources and Environment, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, Yunnan, P.R. China, Dao Cheng-Jiao , Karunarathna Samantha C. ,   Center for Yunnan Plateau Biological Resources Protection and Utilization, College of Biological Resource and Food Engineering, Qujing Normal University, Qujing, Yunnan 655011, P.R. China, Ekanayaka Anusha H. ,   Center for Yunnan Plateau Biological Resources Protection and Utilization, College of Biological Resource and Food Engineering, Qujing Normal University, Qujing, Yunnan 655011, P.R. China,   Department of Urban Bioresources, Faculty of Urban and Aquatic Bioresources, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Gangodawila, Nugegoda 10250, Sri Lanka, Lu Li ,   Center for Yunnan Plateau Biological Resources Protection and Utilization, College of Biological Resource and Food Engineering, Qujing Normal University, Qujing, Yunnan 655011, P.R. China,   Center of Excellence in Fungal Research, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai 57100, Thailand,   School of Science, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, 57100, Thailand, Yang Er-Fu ,   Center for Yunnan Plateau Biological Resources Protection and Utilization, College of Biological Resource and Food Engineering, Qujing Normal University, Qujing, Yunnan 655011, P.R. China,   Master of Science Program in Applied Microbiology (International Program), Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand, Tibpromma Saowaluck ,   Center for Yunnan Plateau Biological Resources Protection and Utilization, College of Biological Resource and Food Engineering, Qujing Normal University, Qujing, Yunnan 655011, P.R. China, Yan Kai ,   College of Resources and Environment, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, Yunnan, P.R. China
Published: May 2023

Fruits are one of the major economic commodities worldwide and postharvest rot diseases is one of the major problems that led to decreasing fruit production. Fungal contaminants reduce the quality of fresh fruits after harvest and it is one of the leading causes of economic loss in global fresh fruits. The purpose of this research was to isolate and identify pathogens causing postharvest rots on common fruits available in markets in Panlong District, Kunming, Yunnan Province, China. The fruits viz. apple (Malus domestica), dragon fruit (Hylocereus undatus), peach (Amygdalus persica) and pear (Pyrus sorotina) were selected to examine post-harvest rots since they are commonly available fruits in Yunnan markets. We isolated six fungal strains from the above-mentioned fruits. The pathogenicity tests and phylogenetic analyses were carried out for the fungi isolated from fruits. Our results showed that Fusarium spp. are common on apple, peach and dragon fruit. In the pathogenicity test, Monilinia yunnanensis inoculated on the pear had the strongest effect on the pear, and the disease spot expanded over half of the total area of the fruit. Our results are expected to provide a reference and basis for preventing postharvest diseases of common fruits in Yunnan.
Measuring hip migration percentage in cerebral palsy using the HipScreen app
Authors: Amen John , Perkins Oliver , Cadwgan Jill , Cooke Stephen J. , Kafchitsas Konstantinos , Kokkinakis Michail
Published: May 2023

Aims

Reimers migration percentage (MP) is a key measure to inform decision-making around the management of hip displacement in cerebral palsy (CP). The aim of this study is to assess validity and inter- and intra-rater reliability of a novel method of measuring MP using a smart phone app (HipScreen (HS) app).

Methods

A total of 20 pelvis radiographs (40 hips) were used to measure MP by using the HS app. Measurements were performed by five different members of the multidisciplinary team, with varying levels of expertise in MP measurement. The same measurements were repeated two weeks later. A senior orthopaedic surgeon measured the MP on picture archiving and communication system (PACS) as the gold standard and repeated the measurements using HS app. Pearson’s correlation coefficient (r) was used to compare PACS measurements and all HS app measurements and assess validity. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was used to assess intra- and inter-rater reliability.

Results

All HS app measurements (from 5 raters at week 0 and week 2 and PACS rater) showed highly significant correlation with the PACS measurements (p < 0.001). Pearson’s correlation coefficient (r) was constantly over 0.9, suggesting high validity. Correlation of all HS app measures from different raters to each other was significant with r > 0.874 and p < 0.001, which also confirms high validity. Both inter- and intra-rater reliability were excellent with ICC > 0.9. In a 95% confidence interval for repeated measurements, the deviation of each specific measurement was less than 4% MP for single measurer and 5% for different measurers.

Conclusion

The HS app provides a valid method to measure hip MP in CP, with excellent inter- and intra-rater reliability across different medical and allied health specialties. This can be used in hip surveillance programmes by interdisciplinary measurers.

Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2023;4(5):363–369.
Type III Monteggia Fracture–dislocation with Radial Nerve Injury in Adults – A Case Report of two Cases
Authors: Krishna Sandeep P , B Jagadeesh , Sathiyaseelan Naveen , S Natarajan
Published: May 2023

Introduction: Uncommon complication of Monteggia fracture is associated PIN palsy. The PIN palsy following Monteggia fracture–dislocation is neuropraxias and will recover spontaneously. Case Reports: Two cases who were diagnosed as Monteggia fracture–dislocation with PIN palsy and associated superficial branch of radial nerve injury – Power 0/5 and sensations 0/2 were taken up for surgery (open reduction internal fixation of fracture of ulna + closed reduction of radial head). By the end of 7 weeks, both sensory and motor power were fully recovered spontaneously in both the cases. Discussion: Most of the PIN injuries following Monteggia fracture–dislocation are neuropraxias and will recover spontaneously after closed reduction of radial head without any intervention to the nerve. The nerve needs to be intervened if there are no signs of recovery by 3 months. The time frame for the nerve to be intervened remains controversial. Conclusion: In both of our cases, the injury is probably proximal to the terminal division of radial nerve and the injuries were neuropraxias and have recovered spontaneously. Hence, we suggest not exploring the nerve in all cases with Monteggia fracture–dislocation immediately even when there is associated sensory deficit. Keywords: Monteggia fracture–dislocation, PIN palsy, neuropraxia.
Robotic-Assisted Patellofemoral Arthroplasties Following Failed Treatment for Trochlear Dysplasia and Patellar Instability: A Case Report
Authors: Ibaseta Alvaro , Pasqualini Ignacio , Ramos Michael S , Piuzzi Nicolas S
Published: May 2023

Introduction: Indications for patellofemoral arthroplasty (PFA) remain under debate, with many surgeons favoring total knee arthroplasty (TKA) even in patients with limited degeneration in the tibiofemoral compartments. Case Report: A 30-year-old man with a history of bilateral patellar instability treated in youth with multiple surgeries presented with 8+ months of recurrent bilateral knee pain. Evaluation showed bilateral severe patellofemoral arthritis with preserved medial and lateral compartments. Bilateral sequential robotic-assisted PFAs (RA-PFA) were offered as a precise approach to reconstructing patellofemoral biomechanics while minimizing bone resection to avoid compromising potential future TKA. Four months after his latest surgery, he returned to a physically demanding job, and he remains active and pain free at 1 year postoperatively. Conclusion: RA-PFA can provide less invasive, accurate, and individualized treatment for younger patients with severe disease without compromising future conversion to TKA. Keywords: Robotic, patellofemoral arthroplasty, trochlear dysplasia, patellar instability, patellofemoral osteoarthritis.
Food Security in Pakistan and Need for Public Policy Adjustments
Authors: Ahmad Touqeer , Saboor Abdul
Published: May 2023

Sustainable food and nutrition security solutions demand integration and alignment in public policies, particularly in the post-COVID-19 scenarios. The introduction of integrated public policies to address the food and nutrition needs in Pakistan is an immediate requirement. This study has applied the

Foster, Greer and Thorbecke (FGT) index to estimate food and nutrition security dimensions

through primary and secondary data. This analysis reveals that food utilization and sustainability have destabilized and deteriorated in Pakistan in recent years. It shows that non-farmers are more food insecure (8 percent) than farmers (4 percent) and this ratio has increased from 2008 to 2018. Food insecurity in terms of food availability and food accessibility has decreased. A holistic approach in public policies toward food security is the clarion call of the time. Therefore, the paper recommends that more focus should be given to knowledge transmission about dietary diversity, provision of quality education, and health facilities in the formulation as well as execution of food security policies.
Hybrid optical turbulence models using machine-learning and local measurements
Authors: Jellen Christopher , Nelson Charles , Burkhardt John , Brownell Cody
Published: May 2023

Accurate prediction of atmospheric optical turbulence in localized
environments is essential for estimating the performance of free-space
optical systems. Macro-meteorological models developed to predict
turbulent effects in one environment may fail when applied in new
environments. However, existing macro-meteorological models are
expected to offer some predictive power. Building a new model from
locally measured macro-meteorology and scintillometer readings can
require significant time and resources, as well as a large number of
observations. These challenges motivate the development of a
machine-learning informed hybrid model framework. By combining a
baseline macro-meteorological model with local observations, hybrid
models were trained to improve upon the predictive power of each
baseline model. Comparisons between the performance of the hybrid
models, selected baseline macro-meteorological models, and
machine-learning models trained only on local observations, highlight
potential use cases for the hybrid model framework when local data are
expensive to collect. Both the hybrid and data-only models were
trained using the gradient boosted decision tree architecture with a
variable number of in situ
meteorological observations. The hybrid and data-only models were
found to outperform three baseline macro-meteorological models, even
for low numbers of observations, in some cases as little as one day.
For the first baseline macro-meteorological model investigated, the
hybrid model achieves an estimated 29% reduction in the mean absolute
error using only one day-equivalent of observation, growing to 41%
after only two days, and 68% after 180 days-equivalent training
data. The data-only model generally showed similar, but slightly lower
performance, as compared to the hybrid model. Notably, the hybrid
model’s performance advantage over the data-only model dropped below
2% near the 24 days-equivalent observation mark and trended towards 0%
thereafter. The number of days-equivalent training data required by
both the hybrid model and the data-only model is potentially
indicative of the seasonal variation in the local microclimate and its
propagation environment.
Controlling light propagation in multimode fibers for imaging, spectroscopy, and beyond
Authors: Cao Hui , Čižmár Tomáš , Turtaev Sergey , Tyc Tomáš , Rotter Stefan
Published: May 2023

Light transport in a highly multimode fiber exhibits complex behavior
in space, time, frequency, and polarization, especially in the
presence of mode coupling. The newly developed techniques of spatial
wavefront shaping turn out to be highly suitable to harness such
enormous complexity: a spatial light modulator enables precise
characterization of field propagation through a multimode fiber, and
by adjusting the incident wavefront it can accurately tailor the
transmitted spatial pattern, temporal profile, and polarization state.
This unprecedented control leads to multimode fiber applications in
imaging, endoscopy, optical trapping, and microfabrication.
Furthermore, the output speckle pattern from a multimode fiber encodes
spatial, temporal, spectral, and polarization properties of the input
light, allowing such information to be retrieved from spatial
measurements only. This article provides an overview of recent
advances and breakthroughs in controlling light propagation in
multimode fibers, and discusses newly emerging applications.
Comparative study of electron vortices in photoionization of molecules and atoms by counter-rotating circularly polarized laser pulses
Authors: Wang Rong-Rong , Ma Mao-Yun , Wen Liang-Cai , Guan Zhong , Yang Zeng-Qiang , Jiao Zhi-Hong , Wang Guo-Li , Zhao Song-Feng
Published: May 2023

We comparatively study the effect of orbital symmetry on vortex patterns in photoelectron momentum distributions (PMDs) of perfectly aligned H2 and N2 molecules and their companion atom Ar exposed to a pair of delayed counter-rotating circularly polarized lasers by numerically solving the two-dimensional time-dependent Schrödinger equation. We show that vortex patterns in PMDs strongly depend on the orbital symmetry of atoms and molecules, and numbers of spiral arms in PMDs of N2, H2, and Ar are quite different even though they have nearly identical ionization potentials. We also confirm that vortex structures in PMDs of the highest occupied molecular orbit (HOMO)-2 for N2 are quite different from those of the HOMO but similar to those of Ar. Furthermore, vortex patterns in PMDs of molecules are also sensitive to internuclear distances and alignment angles, which provides more possibilities for controlling the coherent interference of electronic wave packets in comparison with atoms.
Non-collinear generation of ultra-broadband parametric fluorescence photon pairs using chirped quasi-phase matching slab waveguides
Authors: Cao Bo , Hayama Kyohei , Suezawa Shun , Hisamitsu Mamoru , Tokuda Katsuhiko , Kurimura Sunao , Okamoto Ryo , Takeuchi Shigeki
Published: May 2023

Many optical quantum applications rely on broadband frequency correlated photon pair sources. We previously reported a scheme for collinear emission of high-efficiency and ultra-broadband photon pairs using chirped quasi-phase matching (QPM) periodically poled stoichiometric lithium tantalate (PPSLT) ridge waveguides. However, collinearly emitted photon pairs cannot be directly adopted for applications that are based on two-photon interference, such as quantum optical coherence tomography (QOCT). In this work, we developed a chirped QPM device with a slab waveguide structure. This device was designed to produce spatially separable (photon pair non-collinear emission) parametric fluorescence photon pairs with an ultra-broadband bandwidth in an extremely efficient manner. Using a non-chirped QPM slab waveguide, we observed a photon pair spectrum with a full-width-at-half-maximum (FWHM) bandwidth of 26 nm. When using a 3% chirped QPM slab waveguide, the FWHM bandwidth of the spectrum increased to 190 nm, and the base-to-base width is 308 nm. We also confirmed a generation efficiency of 2.4×106 pairs/(μW·s) using the non-chirped device, and a efficiency of 8×105 pairs/(μW·s) using the 3% chirped device under non-collinear emission conditions after single-mode fiber coupling. This is, to the best of our knowledge, the first report of frequency correlated photon pairs generation using slab waveguide device as a source. In addition, using slab waveguides as photon pair sources, we performed two-photon interference experiments with the non-chirped device and obtained a Hong–Ou–Mandel (HOM) dip with a FWHM of 7.7 μm and visibility of 98%. When using the 3% chirped device as photon pair source, the HOM measurement gave a 2 μm FWHM dip and 74% visibility.
Triple-layered optical interconnecting integrated waveguide chip based on epoxy cross-linking fluorinated polymer photonic platform
Authors: Yue Jian , Sun Xiangyi , Wang Chunxue , Zhang Sheng , Han Lei , Wang Jinkai , Cui Zhanchen , Shi Zuosen , Zhang Daming , Chen Changming
Published: May 2023

In this study, a triple-layered optical interconnecting integrated waveguide chip was designed and fabricated using an epoxy cross-linking polymer photonic platform. Fluorinated photopolymers FSU-8 and AF-Z-PC EP were self-synthesized as waveguide cores and cladding materials, respectively. The triple-layered optical interconnecting waveguide device comprised 4 × 4 arrayed waveguide grating (AWG) -based wavelength-selective switching (WSS) arrays, 4 × 4 multi-mode interference (MMI) -cascaded channel-selective switching (CSS) arrays, and 3 × 3 direct-coupling (DC) interlayered switching arrays. The overall optical polymer waveguide module was fabricated by direct UV writing. For the multilayered WSS arrays, the wavelength-shifting sensitivity was ∼0.48 nm/°C. For the multilayered CSS arrays, the average switching time was ∼280 µs, and the maximum power consumption was <30 mW. For interlayered switching arrays, the extinction ratio approximated 15.2 dB. The transmission loss for the triple-layered optical waveguide chip was measured as 10.0–12.1 dB. The flexible multilayered photonic integrated circuits (PIC) can be used in high-density integrated optical interconnecting systems with a large-volume optical information transmission capacity.
Accurate design of a TeO2 noncollinear acousto-optic tunable filter with refractive index correction
Authors: Zhang Hao , Zhao Huijie
Published: May 2023

The refractive index is a key factor in the design and analysis of noncollinear acousto-optic tunable filter (AOTF) devices. While previous studies have corrected and analyzed the effects of anisotropic birefringence and the rotatory property, they still rely on paraxial and elliptical approximations, which can introduce non-negligible errors (0.5° or more) into the geometric parameters of TeO2 noncollinear AOTF devices. In this paper, we address these approximations and their effects through refractive index correction. This fundamental theoretical research has significant implications for the design and application of noncollinear AOTF devices.
Fast and versatile sequence-independent protein docking for nanomaterials design using RPXDock
Authors: Sheffler William , Yang Erin C. , Dowling Quinton , Hsia Yang , Fries Chelsea N. , Stanislaw Jenna , Langowski Mark D. , Brandys Marisa , Li Zhe , Skotheim Rebecca , Borst Andrew J. , Khmelinskaia Alena , King Neil P. , Baker David
Published: May 2023

Computationally designed multi-subunit assemblies have shown considerable promise for a variety of applications, including a new generation of potent vaccines. One of the major routes to such materials is rigid body sequence-independent docking of cyclic oligomers into architectures with point group or lattice symmetries. Current methods for docking and designing such assemblies are tailored to specific classes of symmetry and are difficult to modify for novel applications. Here we describe RPXDock, a fast, flexible, and modular software package for sequence-independent rigid-body protein docking across a wide range of symmetric architectures that is easily customizable for further development. RPXDock uses an efficient hierarchical search and a residue-pair transform (RPX) scoring method to rapidly search through multidimensional docking space. We describe the structure of the software, provide practical guidelines for its use, and describe the available functionalities including a variety of score functions and filtering tools that can be used to guide and refine docking results towards desired configurations.
Microbiological assessment reveals that Salmonella, Shigella and Campylobacter infections are widespread in HIV infected and uninfected patients with diarrhea in Mozambique
Authors: Hlashwayo Delfina Fernandes , Noormahomed Emília Virgínia , Bahule Leonilde , Benson Constance , Schooley Robert T. , Sigaúque Betuel , Barrett Kim E. , Bila Custódio Gabriel
Published: May 2023

Diarrhea is an important cause of hospitalizations in Mozambique. However, little attention has been paid to the impact HIV infection on the prevalence or clinical manifestations of enteric bacterial infections. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of Salmonella spp., Shigella spp. and Campylobacter spp. in HIV-infected and HIV-uninfected patients with diarrhea, identify risk factors for infection, and explore the association between HIV status, viral load, and bacterial prevalence. We conducted a case-control study at the Centro de Saúde de Mavalane and Centro de Saúde 1° de Maio in Maputo, Mozambique, from November 2021 to May 2022. We recruited 300 patients, including 150 HIV-infected (cases) and 150 HIV-uninfected patients (controls), aged between 0–88 years, presenting with diarrhea. Stool samples were collected for bacterial isolation through culture, and for each HIV-infected patient, 4 ml of venous blood were obtained for viral load detection through PCR. A total of 129 patients (43.0%) had at least one bacterial infection. The prevalence of Salmonella spp., Shigella spp. and Campylobacter spp. was 33.0% (n = 99), 15.0% (n = 45) and 4.3% (n = 13), respectively. The prevalence of any bacterial infection did not differ significantly between HIV-infected (45.3%, n = 68) and HIV-uninfected patients (40.7%, = 61) (p = 0.414). Overall, having 2–3 symptoms of enteric disease (p = 0.008) and a basic education (p = 0.030) were factors associated with bacterial infection. Of the 148 patients for whom HIV-1 RNA levels were available, 115 had copy numbers ≤ 75. Another 13 had levels between 76 and 1,000 and the remaining 20 had an average of 327,218.45 copies/ml. Bivariate logistic regression found that Shigella spp. were associated with HIV (p = 0.038), although no association was found in the multivariate analysis. Enteric infections are common in both HIV-infected and -uninfected patients. Low schooling influences the occurrence of enteric infections, which highlights the need to raise awareness about their prevention.
Effective immuno-therapeutic treatment of Canine Leishmaniasis
Authors: Ramos Rafael Antonio Nascimento , Giannelli Alessio , Fasquelle François , Scuotto Angelo , Betbeder Didier
Published: May 2023

Background

Canine Leishmaniasis (CanL) caused by the L. infantum species is one of the biggest threats to the health of the South American canine population. Chemotherapeutics currently used for the treatment of CanL fail to induce a total parasite clearance while inducing numerous side effects. As CanL is an immunomodulated disease, the use of immuno-treatments should strengthen the deficient immune response of infected dogs. In this study, we evaluated a nasally administered immunotherapy in dogs naturally infected with L. infantum (stage 2), with both visceral and cutaneous manifestations. Noteworthy, some of them were also infected by other parasites (E. canis, D. immitis, A. platys), what worsen their chance of survival.

Methodology/Principal findings

The treatment was based on 2 intranasal (IN.) administrations of a killed L. infantum parasite loaded into maltodextrin nanoparticles, which treatment was compared with the classical oral administration of Miltefosine (2 mg/kg) for 28 days, as well as a combination of these 2 treatments. The results showed that two IN administrations significantly reduced the serology, and were at least as efficient as the chemotherapy to reduce the skin and bone marrow parasite burden, as well as clinical scores, and that unlike Miltefosine treatments, this nasally administered nanoparticle vaccine was without side effects.

Conclusions

These results confirm the feasibility of a simple therapeutic immuno-treatment against L. infantum infected dogs, which is a promising tool for future developments.
Study of the soliton propagation of the fractional nonlinear type evolution equation through a novel technique
Authors: Zaman U. H. M. , Arefin Mohammad Asif , Akbar M. Ali , Uddin M. Hafiz
Published: May 2023

Nonlinear fractional partial differential equations are highly applicable for representing a wide variety of features in engineering and research, such as shallow-water, oceanography, fluid dynamics, acoustics, plasma physics, optical fiber system, turbulence, nonlinear biological systems, and control theory. In this research, we chose to construct some new closed form solutions of traveling wave of fractional order nonlinear coupled type Boussinesq–Burger (BB) and coupled type Boussinesq equations. In beachside ocean and coastal engineering, the suggested equations are frequently used to explain the spread of shallow-water waves, depict the propagation of waves through dissipative and nonlinear media, and appears during the investigation of the flow of fluid within a dynamic system. The subsidiary extended tanh-function technique for the suggested equations is solved for achieve new results by conformable derivatives. The fractional order differential transform was used to simplify the solution process by converting fractional differential equations to ordinary type differential equations by using the mentioned method. Using this technique, some applicable wave forms of solitons like bell type, kink type, singular kink, multiple kink, periodic wave, and many other types solution were accomplished, and we express our achieve solutions by 3D, contour, list point, and vector plots by using mathematical software such as MATHEMATICA to express the physical sketch much more clearly. Moreover, we assured that the suggested technique is more reliable, pragmatic, and dependable, that also explore more general exact solutions of close form traveling waves.
Analysis of the spatio-temporal evolution of sustainable land use in China under the carbon emission trading scheme: A measurement idea based on the DID model
Authors: Ma Yingjuan , Feng Haoyuan , Meng Yanjun , Yue Longfei
Published: May 2023

Sustainable development is the theme of world economic development in the 21st century. As a key part of sustainable development, sustainable land use (SLU) encompasses economic development and environmentally friendly and social progress. In recent decades, China has formulated many environmental regulatory policies to achieve sustainable development and "carbon peaking and carbon neutrality (double-carbon)" goals, among which the carbon emission trading scheme (CETS) is the most representative and provides valuable research. In this paper, we aimed to reflect the spatio-temporal evolution of SLU in China under the influence of environmental regulatory policies through an indicator measurement strategy based on the DID estimation method. The study conclusions are as follows: (1) The CETS can effectively improve SLU from the perspectives of economic development and environmentally friendly progress, and the impact has primarily been in the pilot areas. And, its effectiveness is closely linked to local locational factors. (2) With respect to the dimension of economic development, the CETS has not changed the provincial distribution patterns of SLU; rather, it continues to remain "high to low, east to west". However, regarding the environmentally friendly progress dimension, the CETS has significantly changed the provincial distribution patterns of SLU, which are characterized by spatial agglomeration with urban agglomerations such as the Pearl River Delta (PRD) and the Yangtze River Delta (YRD) as the core. (3) The screening results of the SLU indicators based on economic development showed that the CETS primarily improved the innovation capacities of pilot regions, and the impacts on economic levels were relatively small. Similarly, the screening results of the SLU indicators based on environmentally friendly progress showed that the CETS had primarily acted on reducing pollution emission intensity and strengthening greening construction, revealing only short-term effects on improving energy use efficiency. Based on the above, this paper explored the meaning and role of the CETS in more detail, with a view to providing insight into the implementation and formulation of environmental regulation policies.
The exquisite specificity of human protein arginine methyltransferase 7 (PRMT7) toward Arg-X-Arg sites
Authors: Bondoc Timothy J. , Lowe Troy L. , Clarke Steven G.
Published: May 2023

Mammalian protein arginine methyltransferase 7 (PRMT7) has been shown to target substrates with motifs containing two arginine residues separated by one other residue (RXR motifs). In particular, the repression domain of human histone H2B (29-RKRSR-33) has been a key substrate in determining PRMT7 activity. We show that incubating human PRMT7 and [3H]-AdoMet with full-length Xenopus laevis histone H2B, containing the substitutions K30R and R31K (RKRSR to RRKSR), results in greatly reduced methylation activity. Using synthetic peptides, we have now focused on the enzymology behind this specificity. We show for the human and Xenopus peptide sequences 23–37 the difference in activity results from changes in the Vmax rather than the apparent binding affinity of the enzyme for the substrates. We then characterized six additional peptides containing a single arginine or a pair of arginine residues flanked by glycine and lysine residues. We have corroborated previous findings that peptides with an RXR motif have much higher activity than peptides that contain only one Arg residue. We show that these peptides have similar apparent km values but significant differences in their Vmax values. Finally, we have examined the effect of ionic strength on these peptides. We found the inclusion of salt had little effect on the Vmax value but a considerable increase in the apparent km value, suggesting that the inhibitory effect of ionic strength on PRMT7 activity occurs largely by decreasing apparent substrate-enzyme binding affinity. In summary, we find that even subtle substitutions in the RXR recognition motif can dramatically affect PRMT7 catalysis.
Association between low internal health locus of control, psychological distress and insulin resistance. An exploratory study
Authors: Eriksson Maria C. M. , Lundgren Jesper , Hellgren Margareta , Li Ying , Björkelund Cecilia , Lindblad Ulf , Daka Bledar
Published: May 2023

Aim

To assess the hypothesis that low internal health locus of control (IHLC) and psychological distress (PD) are associated with insulin resistance.

Materials and methods

In 2002–2005, a random population sample of 2,816 men and women aged 30–74 years participated (76%) in two municipalities in southwestern Sweden. This study included 2,439 participants without previously known diabetes or cardiovascular disease. IHLC was measured by a global scale and PD was measured by the 12-item General Health Questionnaire. Insulin resistance was estimated using HOMA-ir. General linear models were used to estimate differences in HOMA-ir between groups with low IHLC, PD, and both low IHLC and PD, respectively.

Results

Five per cent (n = 138) had both PD and low IHLC, 62 per cent of participants (n = 1509) had neither low IHLC nor PD, 18 per cent (n = 432) had PD, and 15 per cent (n = 360) low IHLC. Participants with both low IHLC and PD had significantly higher HOMA-ir than participants with neither low IHLC nor PD (Δ = 24.8%, 95%CI: 12.0–38.9), also in the fully adjusted model (Δ = 11.8%, 95%CI: 1.5–23.0). Participants with PD had significantly higher HOMA-ir (Δ = 12%, 95%CI: 5.7–18.7), but the significance was lost when BMI was included in the model (Δ = 5.3%, 95%CI:0.0–10.8). Similarly, participants with low IHLC had significantly higher HOMA-ir (Δ = 10.1%, 95%CI: 3.5–17.0) but the significance was lost in the fully adjusted model (Δ = 3.5%, 95%CI: -1.9–9.3).

Conclusions

Internal health locus of control (IHLC) and psychological distress (PD) were associated with insulin resistance. Especially individuals with both PD and low IHLC may need special attention.
Impact of divergence of residual feed intake on triglyceride metabolism-related gene expression in meat-type ducks
Authors: Shui Fei , Qiu Guiru , Pan Shenqiang , Wang Xin , Jiang Tingting , Geng Zhaoyu , Jin Sihua
Published: May 2023

Triglyceride (TG) metabolism is a key factor that affects residual feed intake (RFI); however, few studies have been conducted on the related gene expression in poultry. The aim of the present study was to investigate the expression of genes and their associations with RFI in meat-type ducks. Weight gain and feed intake (FI) at an age 21–42 days were measured and the RFI was calculated. Quantitative PCR was used to test the expression of the six identified genes, namely peroxisome proliferator activated receptor γ (PPARγ), glycerol kinase 2 (GK2), glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase 1 (GPD1), glycerol kinase (GYK), lipase E (LIPE), and lipoprotein lipase (LPL) in the duodenum in the high RFI (HRFI) and low RFI (LRFI) groups. The results demonstrated that daily feed intake, feed conversion ratio (FCR), and RFI were markedly higher in HRFI ducks than those in LRFI ducks. Moreover, the levels of expression of PPARγ, GK2, and LIPE were significantly higher in the LRFI group than those in the HRFI group. Correlation analysis showed that PPARγ, GK2, and LIPE were significantly negatively associated with FCR and RFI. Furthermore, gene expression levels were negatively associated with the measured phenotype. The association of GK2 with PPARγ, GPD1, LPL, and LIPE was positive. The relationship between the TG related gene and RFI was further verified to potentially develop pedigree poultry breeding programs. The results of this study suggested that the expression of genes correlated with TG metabolism and transport is up-regulated in the duodenum of ducks with high feed efficiency. PPARγ, GK2, and LIPE are important genes that affect RFI. The results of the present study provide information that could facilitate further explorations of the mechanism of RFI and potential markers at the molecular and cellular levels.
Characteristics of cardiopulmonary exercise testing in patients with combined post- and pre-capillary pulmonary hypertension due to left heart disease
Authors: Goda Ayumi , Yanagisawa Yoshiaki , Takeuchi Shinsuke , Takeuchi Kaori , Kikuchi Hanako , Inami Takumi , Kohno Takashi , Satoh Toru , Soejima Kyoko
Published: May 2023

Background

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a common and morbid complication of left heart disease (LHD), comprising two subtypes: (1) isolated post-capillary pulmonary hypertension (Ipc-PH) and (2) combined post-capillary and pre-capillary pulmonary hypertension (Cpc-PH). Knowledge regarding the physiological characteristics that distinguish Cpc-PH, which has a worse prognosis, from Ipc-PH remains limited. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the utility of cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) variables in detecting Cpc-PH.

Methods and results

Among 105 consecutive patients with LHD (age: 55 ± 13 years; male/female = 79/26) who underwent right heart catheterization and CPET, 45 (43%) were classified as PH-LHD (mean pulmonary artery pressure >20 mmHg). Ipc-PH (n = 24) was defined as pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) ≤ 3 WU and Cpc-PH (n = 21) as PVR > 3 WU. Patients with Cpc-PH had a significantly lower peak partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PETCO2) (Non-PH/Ipc-PH/Cpc-PH = 38.2 ± 6.6 vs. 38.3 ± 6.0 vs 33.0 ± 4.4 mmHg, p = 0.006), higher VE vs. VCO2 slope (Non-PH/Ipc-PH/Cpc-PH = 33.0 [28.3, 36.6] vs. 32.5 [28.1, 37.8] vs. 40.6 [33.6, 46.1], p = 0.007), and lower ΔVO2/ΔWR (Non-PH/Ipc-PH/Cpc-PH = 8.5 ± 1.4 vs. 8.0 ± 1.7 vs. 6.8 ± 2.0 mL/min/watt, p = 0.001) than those with Ipc-PH and non-PH. Using multivariable logistic regression analysis, CPET variables were found to be independent predictors of Cpc-PH (lower peak PETCO2: odds ratio, 0.728 [95% confidence interval {CI}: 0.616–0.840], p = 0.003 and lower ΔVO2/ΔWR: odds ratio, 0.747 [95% CI: 0.575–0.872], p = 0.003).

Conclusion

From our exploratory analysis, CPET variables, especially in the lower peak PETCO2 and lower ΔVO2/ΔWR, were associated with Cpc-PH in patients with left heart disease.
Living with a diagnosis of Placenta Accreta Spectrum: Mothers’ and Fathers’ experience of the antenatal journey and the birth
Authors: Bartels Helena C. , Horsch Antje , Cooney Naomi , Brennan Donal J. , Lalor Joan G.
Published: May 2023

Objective

Much research into Placenta Accreta Spectrum (PAS) has focussed on the associated maternal morbidity and mortality. However, mothers’ and fathers’ lived experiences of the aftermath of a diagnosis of PAS up to the birth and beyond has received little attention. Therefore, the aim of this study was to increase our understanding of the psychological consequences of PAS on women and their partners during pregnancy, up to and including the birth.

Methods

In-depth interviews were conducted with 29 participants; 6 couples were interviewed together (n = 12), 6 couples were interviewed separately (n = 12), and 5 women were interviewed without their partner. Data from the antenatal and intrapartum periods are presented. Couples were eligible for inclusion if they had a diagnosis of PAS within the previous 5 years. An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis approach was used to gather and analyse data. Virtual interviews were conducted over a 3-month period from February to April 2021.

Results

Themes emerged relating to two distinct timepoints, the antenatal period and birth. The antenatal period had two main themes: the first antenatal main theme was “Living with PAS”, which had two sub-themes: “Lack of knowledge of PAS” and “Experiences of varied approaches to care”. The second antenatal main theme was “Coping with uncertainty”, which had two sub-themes of “Getting on with it”, and “Emotional toll”. Relating to birth, two main themes emerged. The first main theme was “A traumatic experience”, with three sub-themes of “Saying goodbye”, “Experiencing trauma” and the “Witnessing of trauma” (by fathers). The second main theme which emerged was “Feeling safe in the hands of experts”, with two subthemes of “Safety in expert team” and “Relief at surviving”.

Conclusions

This study highlights the significant psychological consequences a diagnosis of PAS has on mothers and fathers, how they try to come to terms with the diagnosis and the experience of a traumatic birth, and how management within a specialist team can alleviate some of these fears.
Innovation network structure, government R&D investment and regional innovation efficiency: Evidence from China
Authors: Cao Xiao-Yan , Wu Xiang-Li , Wang Li-Min
Published: May 2023

Based on the panel data of 30 provinces in China from 2011 to 2019, this paper uses a two-stage DEA model to measure regional innovation efficiency, then non-parametric test is used to examine the impact of innovation network structure and government R&D investment on regional innovation efficiency. The results show that, at the provincial level, innovation efficiency of regional R&D is not necessarily in direct proportion to the innovation efficiency in the commercialization stage. Commercialization efficiency is not necessarily high in provinces with high technical R&D efficiency. At the national level, the innovation efficiency gap between our country’s R&D and commercialization stage is small, indicating that the development of the national innovation efficiency is more and more balanced. Innovation network structure can promote the R&D efficiency, but has no significant effect on the commercialization efficiency. Government R&D investment helps to improve the R&D efficiency, but it is not conducive to the improvement of commercialization efficiency. The interaction between innovation network structure and government R&D investment will have compound effects on regional innovation efficiency; the region with underdeveloped innovation network structure can increase the government R&D investment to make it have a higher level of R&D. This paper provides insights into how to improve innovation efficiency in different social networks and policy environments.
The digital world and atypical work: Perceptions and difficulties of teleworking in Hungary and Romania
Authors: Lipták Katalin , Horváthné Csolák Erika , Musinszki Zoltán
Published: May 2023

IT solutions have been transforming the world of work, albeit with varying intensity, for decades. They affect, among other things, the organisation of work, work structures, employment patterns and working time. Solutions such as artificial intelligence (AI), business intelligence (BI), robotic process automation (RPA), workflow, process mining, etc. are now a daily reality in the corporate sector, be it physical or mental work. However, the spread of digital solutions across organisations, spaces and sectors is uneven. Can the impact of this uneven spread be observed in employment, especially in atypical forms of employment? In our questionnaire research, we seek to establish how employees with tertiary education in two pairs of sectors (Hungarian and Romanian non-profit sectors and Hungarian non-profit and for-profit sectors) in two countries perceive some demographic characteristics of teleworking. In our research, we analysed the responses of Hungarian and Romanian working-age citizens with tertiary education who had been working in telework for at least one year at the time of completing the questionnaire. In addition to the deterioration of work relationships and the lack of personal contacts already shown by many studies, it is observed that the work-life balance is upset for single people and those without children, while the number of children does not influence opinions on teleworking. The differences observed and presented in the study are typically not gender-specific but largely based on globalised perspectives.
Employees’ attitudes towards implementing robotic process automation technology at service companies
Authors: Siderska Julia , Alsqour Moh’d , Alsaqoor Sameh
Published: May 2023

Robotic Process Automation (RPA) technology emerged as an innovative solution that supports the maintenance of operational processes and ensures business continuity, especially during the coronavirus pandemic. A survey was conducted for the purposes of this study. The main objective of the survey was to identify employees’ attitudes towards RPA implementation in Polish service companies. The attitudes related to their involvement in the design and implementation of RPA solutions and their awareness of the fact that performing repetitive tasks is inefficient were scored the highest. The surveyed managers were of the opinion that employees waste time because they are occupied rewriting data between systems instead of developing the company, so they should be transferred to doing more complex and value-added work. Moreover, the involved statistical analyses also considered the correlations between employees’ attitudes and determinants of RPA adoption.
Síndrome de Van Wyk–Grumbach asociado a hiperplasia hipofisaria: reporte de caso y revisión de la literatura
Authors: Silva Oviedo Nelly Johanna , Coll Barrios Mauricio , Coll Benoit Romain Xavier
Published: May 2023

Antecedentes: El hipotiroidismo es frecuente en pediatría. Suele asociarse a desarrollo sexual retrasado en prepúberes no tratados. La asociación de hipotiroidismo, pubertad precoz, retraso del crecimiento y de la edad ósea, fue descrita inicialmente por Van Wyk y Grumbach en 1960. Algunos casos presentan hiperplasia hipofisaria y quistes ováricos. Reporte de caso: se presenta el caso de una niña de 8 años con menarquia precoz, talla baja e hiperplasia hipofisaria, causados por hipotiroidismo. Recibe tratamiento con levotiroxina, con mejoría de su velocidad de crecimiento, desaparición del sangrado vaginal y de la hiperplasia hipofisaria. Conclusión: el conocimiento sobre el síndrome contribuye al diagnóstico y tratamiento oportunos, lo cual permite mejorar significativamente el pronóstico de crecimiento y desarrollo del niño, y evita someterlo a procedimientos quirúrgicos innecesarios
Open-book accounting no relacionamento entre cooperativa e cooperados no setor cafeeiro
Authors: Silva Lima Daiane , Cristina Francisco de Almeida Fehr Lara , Lemos Duarte Sérgio , Luiz Borinelli Márcio
Published: May 2023

Objetivo: Analisar como o Open-Book Accounting (OBA) é praticado, considerando as suas dimensões, no relacionamento entre uma cooperativa cafeeira e seus cooperados na perspectiva da Economia dos Custos de Transação.
Método: Estudo de caso do relacionamento entre uma cooperativa e seus cooperados. Para a coleta de dados, utilizaram-se entrevistas semiestruturadas, análise documental e observação direta não participante. Para a análise, empregou-se a Análise de Conteúdo.
Resultados/Discussão: Verificou-se que há a aplicação do OBA de forma bilateral, com alto nível de detalhamento das informações no sentido cooperado-cooperativa e nível baixo, no sentido contrário. As condições de aplicação são baseadas em cooperação e confiança, contemplando incentivos e previsão de benefícios mútuos. Percebeu-se que os custos de transação do relacionamento analisado são reduzidos, pois, a priori, tanto a cooperativa como os cooperados não percebem oportunismo no uso das informações compartilhadas. Conclui-se que o relacionamento estudado favorece a aplicação do OBA, uma vez que é pautado em cooperação, um dos principais pilares para a sua efetiva aplicação e geração dos potenciais benefícios.
Contribuições: O estudo amplia o conhecimento nas áreas de Administração e Contabilidade ao pesquisar a aplicação do OBA em cooperativas. Contribui para a prática ao possibilitar o entendimento da aplicação do OBA e de seus pontos fortes e fracos no cooperativismo. Gera contribuição social, pois, a adequada gestão de custos, a partir do compartilhamento de informações, possibilita desempenho superior nos negócios dos cooperados e geração de renda para as famílias envolvidas.
Radiation Detection and Heavy Metals Measurements in Powdered Blood Sample of Leukemia Patients
Authors: Hussein Zakariya A.
Published: May 2023

This research examines the measurements of radiation detection and heavy metals in blood samples of leukemia and health groups using CR-39 nuclear track detectors and X-ray fluorescence. The results show that the minimum and maximum values of uranium contents found in leukemia blood samples of male (18 years) and female (55 years) patients, respectively. The concentration of heavy metals (Pb, Cd, and Ni) and radium contents is higher in leukemia blood samples, as compared with their concentration in healthy blood samples.
The Neuropsychiatric Aspect of the Chronic Viral Hepatitis
Authors: Polukchi Tatyana Vasiliyevna , Abuova Gulzhan Narkenovna , Slavko Yelena Alekseevna
Published: May 2023

Chronic viral hepatitis is a systemic disease characterized by a wide range of extrahepatic manifestations, such as cognitive impairment, chronic fatigue, sleep disorders, depression, anxiety and a decrease in quality of life. This article presents a summary of the main theories and hypotheses about the occurrence of cognitive impairment, features of treatment of patients with chronic viral hepatitis. Often, extrahepatic manifestations can outstrip the clinical manifestations of liver damage itself, which requires the use of additional diagnostic and treatment methods, and they can also significantly change the treatment tactics and prognosis of the disease. Changes in neuropsychological parameters and cognitive impairments are often recorded in patients with chronic viral hepatitis at stages characterized by the absence of significant liver fibrosis and liver cirrhosis. These changes usually occur regardless of the genotype of the infection and in the absence of structural damage to the brain. The purpose of this review is to study the main aspects of the formation of cognitive impairment in patients with chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis of viral etiology.