bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Hidden Companions to Intermediate-mass Stars. Upgraded Multiplicity 2 → 3. XXIII. Discovery of a 0.94M
⊙, 9.2 au Companion to the Ap Star Gamma Piscis Austrini A*
Authors: Waisberg Idel , Klein Ygal , Katz Boaz 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Gamma Piscis Austrini is a nearby ρ = 4.″1 ↔ 284 au visual binary consisting of an A0Vp primary (A) and an F5V secondary (B). Here we report that the primary is actually a closer binary based on a VLTI/GRAVITY interferometric observation. The newly discovered companion Ab has a K band flux ratio 4.8% ± 0.2% and a projected separation ρ = 143.50 mas ↔ 9.2 au relative to Aa. We estimate isochrone masses M
Aa = 2.65M
⊙, M
Ab = 0.94M
⊙ and M
B = 1.20M
⊙. γ PsA will become a triple white dwarf system within a Hubble time, with a low enough hierarchy for possibly interesting dynamical effects with a timescale P
KL ∼ 200 kyr.
Hepatitis B Virus Increases SphK1–S1P Synthesis by Promoting the Availability of the Transcription Factor USF1
Authors: Zhang Lu , Song Ya-Hui , Liu Juan , Zhao Yin-Xia , Zhou Ruo-Ran , Xu Jun-Chi , He Jun , Lu You-Li , Gan Wen-Juan , Lu Xing-Sheng , Li Min , Zhou Peng , Wang Lin , Han Qing-Zhen 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is the most common chronic viral infection globally, affecting ∼360 million people and causing about 1 million deaths annually due to end-stage liver disease or hepatocellular carcinoma. Current antiviral treatments rarely achieve a functional cure for chronic hepatitis B, highlighting the need for improved monitoring and intervention strategies. This study explores the role of the sphingosine kinase 1 (SphK1)–sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) axis in HBV-related liver injury. We investigated the association between serum S1P concentration and HBV DNA levels in chronic hepatitis B patients, finding a significant positive correlation. Additionally, SphK1 was elevated in liver tissues of HBV-positive hepatocellular carcinoma patients, particularly in HBsAg-positive regions. HBV infection models in HepG2–sodium taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide cells confirmed that HBV enhances SphK1 expression and S1P production. Inhibition of HBV replication through antiviral agents and the CRISPR-Cas9 system reduced SphK1 and S1P levels. Further, we identified the transcription factor USF1 as a key regulator of SphK1 expression during HBV infection. USF1 binds to the SphK1 promoter, increasing its transcriptional activity, and is upregulated in response to HBV infection. In vivo studies in mice demonstrated that HBV exposure promotes the expression of USF1 and SphK1–S1P. These findings suggest that the SphK1–S1P axis, regulated by HBV-induced USF1, could serve as a potential biomarker and therapeutic target for HBV-related liver injury.
IDO2 Drives Autoantibody Production and Joint Inflammation in a Preclinical Model of Arthritis by Repressing Runx1 Function in B Cells
Authors: Peng Weidan , Merlo Lauren M F , Grabler Samantha , Montgomery James D , Mandik-Nayak Laura 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
The immunomodulatory enzyme IDO2 is an essential mediator of autoantibody production and joint inflammation in preclinical models of autoimmune arthritis. Although originally identified as a tryptophan-catabolizing enzyme, we recently discovered a previously unknown nonenzymatic pathway is essential for the proarthritic function of IDO2. We subsequently identified Runx1 (Runt-related transcription factor 1) as a potential component of the nonenzymatic pathway IDO2 uses to drive arthritis. In this study, we find that IDO2 directly binds Runx1 and inhibits its localization to the nucleus, implicating Runx1 as a downstream component of IDO2 function. To directly test whether Runx1 mediates the downstream pathway driving B cell activation in arthritis, we bred B cell conditional Runx1-deficient (CD19cre Runx1flox/flox) mice onto the KRN.g7 arthritis model in the presence or absence of IDO2. Runx1 loss did not affect arthritis in the presence of IDO2; however, deleting Runx1 reversed the antiarthritic effect of IDO2 loss in this model. Further studies demonstrated that the IDO2-Runx1 interaction could be blocked with a therapeutic anti-IDO2 mAb in vitro and that Runx1 was required for IDO2 Ig’s therapeutic effect in vivo. Taken together, these data demonstrate that IDO2 mediates autoantibody production and joint inflammation by acting as a repressor of Runx1 function in B cells and implicate therapeutic targeting of IDO2-Runx1 binding as a strategy to inhibit autoimmune arthritis and other autoantibody-mediated diseases.
Exploring the applicability of effectuation theory in distressed venture environments
Authors: Madigoe Thabang , Pretorius Marius 
Published: October 2024

Orientation: Once appointed, business rescue practitioners and turnaround professionals are faced with critical decision making of whether a distressed venture contains an opportunity as judged by reasonable prospect.Research purpose: This study investigated and explored the application of ‘effectuation theory’ principles and/or causation elements to the distressed venture opportunity (DVO) decision making.Motivation for the study: Effectuation is applied by experts to an entrepreneurial opportunity, and it was important to investigate whether effectuation and its principles would inform practitioners for better decision making when evaluating a DVO.Research design, approach and method: A qualitative study was conducted with 15 business rescue practitioners (BRPs) from the Gauteng province. The data were collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews and a thematic analysis was used to analyse the data.Main findings: This study reveals that all five effectuation principles and some causation elements are applicable to the DVO judgement. The findings indicate that both effectuation and causation are applied in a complementary manner depending on the context.Practical and/or managerial implications: This study highlights the importance of applying effectuation and causation elements for practitioners to achieve success. By applying both logics, BRPs can build resilience in their strategies, be creative in adapting to solutions as they arise and engage with stakeholders in the business rescue process.Contribution and/or value add: This study extended the application of effectuation theory to distressed venture environments, offering insights into how practitioners can make better decisions when evaluating a DVO.
Assessing the contribution of shadow banking to systemic risk in South Africa during COVID-19
Authors: Mashimbye Lawrence , Fanta Ashenafi B. 
Published: October 2024

Background: Systemic risk studies in the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) period focus mostly on the banking sector. Regulators however, yearn for data on the contribution of shadow banking to systemic risk during the pandemic.Aim: The primary goal of the study is to determine the contribution of shadow banking to systemic risk during the COVID-19 period in South Africa.Setting: The study focussed on shadow banking, non-bank financial institutions involved in credit intermediation outside the traditional banking system in South Africa.Method: Systemic risk is measured by conditional value-at-risk methodology using monthly market returns of fixed-income funds, funds-of-funds, money market funds and multi-asset funds from January 2015 to December 2021.Results: Shadow banking contributed to systemic risk during COVID-19, and systemic risk reached an all-time high during the onset of the pandemic. Money market funds exhibited higher systemic risk because of the COVID-19 shock. However, multi-asset funds and funds-of-funds are the classes that contributed more to systemic risk during the COVID-19 period. Furthermore, systemic risk trends of multi-asset funds and funds-of-funds increased with the rise in COVID-19 infections, except in the third wave when systemic risk peaked months after the surge in COVID-19 cases.Conclusion: Shadow banking contributes to systemic risk in South Africa and systemic risk peaked during the COVID-19 period.Contribution: There is growing evidence on systemic risk during COVID-19, and this study extends the focus to shadow banking. It draws attention of regulators to credit intermediation outside traditional banks.
Posttraumatic Growth after Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection: A Mixed-Methods Study
Authors: Rogerson Michelle C. , Jackson Alun C. , Le Grande Michael R. , Hesselson Stephanie , Iismaa Siiri E. , Graham Robert M. , Murphy Barbara M. 
Published: October 2024

Background:
Heart attacks caused by spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) are traumatic events. While stressful, traumatic events can also be catalysts for positive growth.

Aims:
This study investigated the nature, prevalence, and correlates of posttraumatic growth (PTG) after SCAD.

Methods:
A mixed-methods approach was used. Part 1 involved seven focus groups with SCAD survivors (n = 30), the findings of which were analyzed thematically. Part 2 involved an online survey of SCAD survivors (n = 263), which included the PTG inventory (PTGI). Bivariate and multivariable analyses determined the significant correlates of PTG after SCAD.

Results:
Part 1 revealed four key themes, namely appreciating life and living in the moment, personal agency, new work-life balance, and spiritual clarity. Part 2 demonstrated that 79% of participants reported some degree of PTG. The mean total PTGI score was 46.4; standard deviation = 25.5. In terms of PTGI factors, the most common aspects of growth were appreciation of life and personal strength. PTG was significantly associated (P < 0.05) with education, partner status, living arrangements, presence of a close confidante, social support, time since SCAD, number of SCADs, and cardiac rehabilitation (CR) attendance. Variables retained in the multivariable model were younger age, mid-level education, high social support, being nondepressed, longer time since SCAD, greater number of SCADs, and CR attendance.

Conclusion:
This is the first study to demonstrate that, despite the associated stresses and challenges, there is a great potential for positive growth after SCAD. These findings have implications for the development and targeting of interventions to support post-SCAD recovery.
Incidence, Antibiogram, and Comorbid Conditions of Nontyphoidal Salmonella Infections Before and After the COVID-19 Outbreak: A Retrospective, Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Suseela Kundoly V. , Alex Aiswariya , Das Subi , Geethalakshmi V. 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background:
The number of patients with diarrheal diseases admitted to the hospital was reduced during the COVID-19 lockdown. Following the relaxation of the lockdown, admissions of nontyphoidal Salmonella (NTS) infection showed a two-fold rise compared to pre-COVID-19 years. This retrospective study aimed to detect the incidence of NTS in the pre-COVID-19 and post-COVID-19 outbreak periods, along with describing the antibiogram and comorbid conditions of the patients.

Materials and Methods:
Using a retrospective design, from January 2015 to December 2022, we studied stool samples for the presence of NTS. Antibiogram with ampicillin, co-trimoxazole, ceftriaxone, chloramphenicol, and ciprofloxacin were studied. The presence of comorbid conditions was noted.

Results:
We examined 2312 and 937 stool samples collected during the pre-COVID-19 and post-COVID-19 outbreak period, respectively. The number of samples collected during the outbreak (2020) was 273. During the pre-COVID-19 period (2015–2019), the average annual isolation rate of NTS was 5.63%. During the lockdown of 2020, the corresponding rate was 5.49%. The isolation rate showed a significant rise (11.45%) during the relaxation of the lockdown (P < 0.001). No significant change in resistance to antibiotics other than ciprofloxacin was noted in the present study. Malignancy was the leading comorbid condition (11.91%) followed by chronic liver diseases (10.31%).

Conclusions:
A significant rise in NTS diarrheal cases was detected following the COVID-19 outbreak. During this period, people were attending more celebrations and feasts. No significant change in antibiotic resistance was noted when comparing pre-COVID-19 and COVID-19 periods. Malignancy was the leading comorbid condition.
Psychological Nicotine Dependence Using Kano Test of Social Nicotine Dependence Scale in Tobacco Users Visiting Tobacco Cessation Center
Authors: Gurung Deepak , Bhardwaj Vinay Kumar , Fotedar Shailee 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background:
The study aimed to assess the psychological dependence of tobacco use among patients visiting the Tobacco Cessation Center.

Methods:
This was a cross-sectional study with a simple random sampling technique. The information was recorded on a structured pro forma through the interview which included demographic details, dependence status based on tobacco use history, behavior, and the Kano Test of Social Nicotine Dependence (KTSND) for psychological dependence.

Results:
The mean KTSND score was 14.3 ± 4.1. About 52.1% responded probably yes for tobacco use itself as a disease. 40.4% responded probably no for tobacco use as a part of culture. 56.1% responded probably yes for tobacco use as one of life’s pleasures. 44.6% responded probably no for respect in tobacco use lifestyle and 40.7% subjects also responded probably no for tobacco use sometimes enriching life. 41.8% responded probably yes for tobacco use have physical or mental effects and 69.6% also responded probably yes for tobacco use have effects to relieve stress. 47.9% responded probably yes for tobacco use enhancing the functions of tobacco users’ brains. 37.1% responded probably no for doctors exaggerating the ill effects of tobacco use. 54.3% responded probably yes for tobacco use by people in all places.

Conclusion:
It is important to understand the two different types of nicotine dependence and the scale used to assess them in the clinical practice of tobacco cessation. The social nicotine dependence in the study was moderate permissive level. Glorification, justification, and denial are important constructs in understanding psychological nicotine dependence using the KTSND scale.
Does it always necessitate retrieving files? Management of separated files using the bypass method: Report of two cases
Authors: Zarekar Mohit Sunil , Satpute Apurva S , Zarekar Mohini S 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Fractured instruments, particularly endodontic files, are a frequent issue encountered in everyday dental practice. There are two main methods for handling a separated instrument: bypassing and retrieval. A broken file obstructs the canal, hindering the cleaning and shaping procedure, during which clinicians typically attempt to recover the file. However, when trying to eliminate the separated file, there are multiple challenges that can decrease the probability of future success and lead to clinical failure. Thus, bypassing the separated instrument is frequently the prudent and minimally intrusive approach. This case report discusses the management of separated instruments utilizing the bypass method, which has been shown to be a conservative strategy.
Digital photography: A boon to dentistry
Authors: Ghosh Arijit , Grewal Mandeep S , Singla Mamta 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Dental technology improvements have reshaped the concept of photography to powerful medium of expression and communication. Digital photography is one of the most common clinical applications of computerization in dentistry nowadays. It aids in the discovery of hidden and undetected flaws in teeth and other areas of the cavity or smile. The dental world is made up of microstructures that must be meticulously documented in order to execute patient education, record documentation, and treatment. This review focuses on the important applications of digital photography in dentistry and the potential impact on patient compliance with dental care.
Modifying Non-communicable Disease Behaviours through Effective Health Communication and Behaviour Change: A Systematic Review
Authors: Darukaradhya Tejaswini B. , Krishnamurthy J. 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Non-communicable diseases (NCD) account for 74% of global mortality. Approximately 86% of all premature deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries majorly attributed to lifestyle changes or behavioural risk factors. The theory-based behaviour change interventions (BCIs) appear promising, but their applicability is not explored within the national programmes. The current paper aims to review the effectiveness of theory-based BCI in modifying the NCD risk factors and provide insights into the national NCD programmes. Interventions conducted to evaluate theory-based BCIs between 2002 and 2022 in modifying behavioural risk factors for NCDs were identified from multiple databases (PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar and Cochrane Library) for systematic review. The final analysis included 35 studies that used theories and models that broadly come under one of the four approaches, i.e. intrapersonal (targets inherent individual factors for behaviour change), interpersonal (targets the family or groups), community (target socio-cultural ecosystems) and integrated (combination of other three approaches). Twenty-seven studies showed significant results. The highest number of studies were of interpersonal approach using socio-cognitive theory and integrated (11 each), and strength of evidence was moderate for both. Twenty-six studies focused on physical inactivity and unhealthy diet. The review supports the effectiveness of behaviour change interventions for mitigating NCD risk factors. Further efforts, including implementation research study methods, should be directed to evaluate effects of these interventions on population health outcomes within specific cultural and social contexts.
Relational ontologies and epistemologies that are informed by our philosophies: Inaugural Ubuntu Annual Lecture 2022
Authors: Chilisa Bagele 
Published: October 2024

It’s always a pleasure, a privilege, and an honour to share my thoughts with other African scholars. So, today I chose to talk about decolonising research and evaluation methodologies. I’ll start off with my understanding of what social workers do, then talk about the challenges that are there for social workers and others as evaluators and researchers. And then I introduce the decolonising paradigms and present the opportunities that are there for us as African scholars to work together to further our vision of an Africa that is liberated from only hearing from the global north. I understand that as social worker, you provide help and support to children and others in need, and that in doing so, you are informed by research. I understand that social workers are also evaluators, and they evaluate interventions to inform policy revisions and even modification of their interventions. I understand that social workers, they do research on social problems to inform design and evaluation of the interventions they design for efficacy. According to the SDGs, social workers have a responsibility, and this responsibility includes making sure that the interventions that they design are sustainable, that they provide long-term solutions for the wellbeing of the entire ecosystem that includes human beings and nature. I understand that social workers are also guided by the principles of social justice, human rights, and holistic and sustainable development to reach freedom and wellbeing. And I understand that social workers are expected to use various theories that take into account historical, cultural, and environmental underpinnings of society. Now, there are challenges with evaluation if you are a social worker. And the biggest challenge that we have today is that the paradigms that we use, the world views that we use that inform how we do evaluation have been informed by the ways of knowing of the West, the ways of seeing reality of the West, and the value systems of the West, and are also driven by Euro-Western methodologies. This has resulted in stagnation of thinking about other ways of doing evaluation and other ways of doing research. The biggest problem is that Western researchers and evaluators and the funders and donors from the West are reluctant also, because remember, most of our development interventions are funded from the West. These people are reluctant to engage with philosophies that see a connection between the living and the non-living. And these are called relational ontologies and epistemologies that are basically informed by our philosophies, especially the philosophy of Ubuntu.
HOW TO REFERENCE USING ASWDNET STYLE
Chilisa, B. (2024). Relational ontologies and epistemologies that are informed by our philosophies: Inaugural Ubuntu Annual Lecture 2022. Ubuntu Lecture delivered on 25 November 2022. African Journal of Social Work, 14(3), 158-165. https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/ajsw.v14i3.8
Visit journal website: https://ajsw.africasocialwork.net
Influence of Infrastructural Choices Strategy on Organizational Performance of Cements Manufacturing Firms in Kenya
Authors: Karuga Charles 
Published: October 2024

Purpose: To determine the influence of infrastructural choices strategy on organizational performance of cements manufacturing firms in Kenya.
Methodology: A mixed methods approach was used in the investigation. The study utilized a concurrent triangulation research design. The unit of analysis comprised of seven (7) cement manufacturing firms, targeting all the 4192 employees from where a sample size of 365 employees was drawn. The data collection tools comprised of semi-structured questionnaires and interview guides. The interview guide was administered to the CEOs while the questionnaires were administered to the managers and non-managers. The study tools were piloted to assess their validity and reliability. The data was then analyzed both descriptively and inferentially using SPSS version 27. Quantitative data was analyzed using means and standard deviations while qualitative data was analyzed using content analysis. To make the number of variables more manageable, the data was subsequently subjected to exploratory factor analysis.
Findings: The results of the study revealed that infrastructural choice strategies have been employed by cement manufacturing firms to a good extent. The regression results obtained also led to the rejection of the null hypotheses since infrastructural choice strategies were found to have a positive and significant influence on organizational performance.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice: The study recommended, based on these results that the management of individual cement firms need to identify appropriate infrastructural choice strategies and leverage on them in order to achieve efficient and effective utilization of their scarce resources at organizational level.