bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The paradox of externally driven localisation: a case study on how local actors manage the contradictory legitimacy requirements of top-down bottom-up aid
Authors: Mulder Femke 
Published: July 2023

AbstractThere are ongoing calls in the humanitarian and development sectors to localise aid, make it more participatory and involve communities. A common response to these calls by INGOs and national governments is to work with local actors to jointly deliver local, community-based, participatory aid. However, this setup tends to be hierarchical, with external actors taking the lead on project design and local actors on implementation. As a result, key outcomes envisioned for localisation and participation in aid often do not materialise. This paper explores the role legitimacy work plays in maintaining this unhelpful status quo. To this end, it provides a qualitative case study analysis of an aid project in Ethiopia (2016–2020) that was initiated by two INGOs and built on government structures designed to facilitate mass volunteering at community level: the Women’s Development Army. The paper argues that externally driven localisation is often organised around project models that are shaped by two contradictory paradigms: one centring resilience and one centring surveillance. As a result, local aid workers and civil servants are faced with incompatible legitimacy requirements in their work. This paper uses a paradox perspective as a theoretical lens to explore how these local actors navigate these conflicting needs. It finds that they use impression management, especially visuals and performances, to sidestep the contradictions. This imagery conceals the disconnects between project strategy, implementation and the reality on the ground. As a side effect, it renders the problems with the externally driven approach invisible and legitimises the hierarchical status quo.
Stimulation parameters for directional vagus nerve stimulation
Authors: Villalobos Joel , Payne Sophie C. , Ward Glenn M. , Andrikopoulos Sofianos , Hyakumura Tomoko , MacIsaac Richard J. , Fallon James B. 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Background
Autonomic nerve stimulation is used as a treatment for a growing number of diseases. We have previously demonstrated that application of efferent vagus nerve stimulation (eVNS) has promising glucose lowering effects in a rat model of type 2 diabetes. This paradigm combines high frequency pulsatile stimulation to block nerve activation in the afferent direction with low frequency stimulation to activate the efferent nerve section. In this study we explored the effects of the parameters for nerve blocking on the ability to inhibit nerve activation in the afferent direction. The overarching aim is to establish a blocking stimulation strategy that could be applied using commercially available implantable pulse generators used in the clinic.

Methods
Male rats (n = 20) had the anterior abdominal vagus nerve implanted with a multi-electrode cuff. Evoked compound action potentials (ECAP) were recorded at the proximal end of the electrode cuff. The efficacy of high frequency stimulation to block the afferent ECAP was assessed by changes in the threshold and saturation level of the response. Blocking frequency and duty cycle of the blocking pulses were varied while maintaining a constant 4 mA current amplitude.

Results
During application of blocking at lower frequencies (≤ 4 kHz), the ECAP threshold increased (ANOVA, p < 0.001) and saturation level decreased (p < 0.001). Application of higher duty cycles (> 70%) led to an increase in evoked neural response threshold (p < 0.001) and a decrease in saturation level (p < 0.001). During the application of a constant pulse width and frequency (1 or 1.6 kHz, > 70% duty cycle), the charge delivered per pulse had a significant influence on the magnitude of the block (ANOVA, p = 0.003), and was focal (< 2 mm range).

Conclusions
This study has determined the range of frequencies, duty cycles and currents of high frequency stimulation that generate an efficacious, focal axonal block of a predominantly C-fiber tract. These findings could have potential application for the treatment of type 2 diabetes.
Fine structural characteristics of the chorionic microspheres on the egg surface of the orb web spider Trichonephila clavata
Authors: Lee Seung-Min , Moon Myung-Jin 
Published: July 2023

AbstractThe eggs laid by the orb web spider Trichonephila clavata must overwinter in bitterly freezing and dry conditions before hatching, but there does not seem to be any protection like a compact silk case covering the entire eggmass. Instead, the surface of the eggmass is completely coated with a milky coating called chorionic microspheres (CM). Therefore, we investigated the fine structural characteristics of CM to demonstrate their ecological importance. Although the diameter of CM in outer eggmass exhibits a significant variation, the chorionic surface is coated with a single layer of CM, characterized by a consistent diameter of approximately 2.3 µm. The surface structure of aggregated CM shows short papillary projections demonstrating segmental adhesion of mucous components. CM is insoluble in water but partially soluble in anhydrous ethanol, and its spherical structure is completely decomposed by hexafluoroisopropanol (HFIP), a strong organic solvent. Since our fine structural observations clearly show that CM is not derived from vitellogenic or choriogenetic processes, the CM adhesive coatings during ovipositional process appears to be equivalent to cocoon silk for various protective functions in silken eggcase.
ISO-FLUCS: symmetrization of optofluidic manipulations in quasi-isothermal micro-environments
Authors: Minopoli Antonio , Wagner Susan , Erben Elena , Liao Weida , Stoev Iliya D. , Lauga Eric , Kreysing Moritz 
Published: July 2023

AbstractRecently, it has been demonstrated that thermoviscous flows can be used for a range of fine micromanipulations, such as moving the cytoplasm of cells and developing embryos, intracellular rheology, and femtonewton-range force measurements. These flows, also known as focused-light-induced cytoplasmic streaming (FLUCS), are induced by mid-infrared laser scanning of a temperature spot through the sample. However, localized laser scanning can inflict temperature perturbations of several Kelvins on the sample, potentially eliciting unspecific biological responses. In this study, we demonstrate how exploiting symmetry relations during laser scanning effectively disentangles laser heating and flow induction. We introduce flow-neutral scan sequences that use dynamic photothermal stimuli and spatiotemporal symmetry relations of scanning bridging up to three distinct time scales. We leverage further insights from a recently published analytical model of flow fields to present quasi-homogenous temperature distributions that leave flow lines and their local and directed character largely invariant. We present practical, intuitive solutions through predesigned sets of scan lines with near isothermal distributions and demonstrate that they are sufficient to generate and control flows in Caenorhabditis elegans embryos on a magnitude well in excess of endogenous flow velocities. Our results enable the separation of two previously tightly linked classes of physical stimuli, introduce a new, even less invasive standard for performing FLUCS perturbations, and pave the way for new unexplored avenues in the fields of soft matter and biomedicine.
Graphical Abstract
Spatial distribution of heavy metals in groundwater around automobile workshops in a popular Niger-Delta University town, Nigeria
Authors: Owamah Hilary Ijeoma , Akpoedafe Thomas Obaro , Ikpeseni Sunday Chukwuyem , Atikpo Eguakhide , Orugba Henry Oghenero , Oyebisi Solomon 
Published: July 2023

AbstractThe research was carried out to assess the concentration and distribution of heavy metals in groundwater from selected automobile workshops in Ozoro metropolis, a busy university town, in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. The major activities carried out in the sampled automobile workshops include vehicle maintenance, painting, panel beating and fabrication. Nine (9) groundwater samples from the automobile workshops and one control sample 2 km away from the influence area were analyzed. Heavy metal concentration, contamination factor, and pollution loading indices were investigated using geostatistical modeling and statistical analysis tools. Heavy metal concentrations in the various samples were determined in accordance with the Association of Official Agricultural Chemists (AOAC) International guidelines. Findings obtained from the study revealed that the groundwater was affected by leachates from the automobile workshops, as the heavy metal levels in the groundwater from the sampling sites were considerably higher than the reference point. The concentration ranges (mg/L) of the heavy metals were Cd (0.0217–0.0412), Cr (0.0643–0.0901), Cu (0.0599–0.0803), Fe (0.3118–0.4171), and Pb (0.1423–0.1781). The spatial distribution maps showed that the metals spread unevenly across the study area. The pollution indices revealed that groundwater from the sampling sites is moderately polluted with heavy metals and the trend of the pollution load index (PLI) is Cd > Ni > Cu > Mn > Pb > Zn > Fe. Comparing the results with those of international regulatory bodies, the groundwater from the study area was found to still be within the approved range for potable water. However, there is evidence of slight contamination due to the activities of the automobile workshops. This may call for minor treatment before usage, regular monitoring and ensuring that the artisans comply with relevant regulations in their operations.
Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Incidence and Remission and Their Predictors During 7 Years of Follow-up Among Finns
Authors: Korpimäki Satu , Rovio Suvi P , Juonala Markus , Hutri-Kähönen Nina , Lehtimäki Terho , Laitinen Tomi P , Tossavainen Päivi , Jokinen Eero , Loo Britt-Marie , Männistö Satu , Tammelin Tuija , Haarala Atte , Aatola Heikki , Komar Gaber , Viikari Jorma , Raitakari Olli , Kähönen Mika , Pahkala Katja 
Published: July 2023

Abstract

Context
The incidence and remission of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are sparsely studied outside Asia.

Objective
This prospective study aimed to investigate NAFLD incidence and remission, and their predictors among a general Finnish population.

Methods
The applied cohort included 1260 repeatedly studied middle-aged participants with data on liver ultrasound and no excessive alcohol intake. Hepatic steatosis was assessed by liver ultrasound with a 7.2-year study interval. Comprehensive data on health parameters and lifestyle factors were available.

Results
At baseline, 1079 participants did not have NAFLD, and during the study period 198 of them developed NAFLD. Of the 181 participants with NAFLD at baseline, 40 achieved NAFLD remission. Taking multicollinearity into account, key predictors for incident NAFLD were baseline age (odds ratio 1.07; 95% CI, 1.02-1.13; P = .009), waist circumference (WC) (2.77, 1.91-4.01 per 1 SD; P &lt; .001), and triglycerides (2.31, 1.53-3.51 per 1 SD; P &lt; .001) and alanine aminotransferase (ALAT) (1.90, 1.20-3.00 per 1 SD; P = .006) concentrations as well as body mass index (BMI) change (4.12, 3.02-5.63 per 1 SD; P &lt; .001). Predictors of NAFLD remission were baseline aspartate aminotransferase (ASAT) concentration (0.23, 0.08-0.67 per 1 SD; P = .007) and WC change (0.38, 0.25-0.59 per 1 SD; P &lt; .001).

Conclusion
During follow-up, NAFLD developed for every fifth participant without NAFLD at baseline, and one-fifth of those with NAFLD at baseline had achieved NAFLD remission. NAFLD became more prevalent during the follow-up period. From a clinical perspective, key factors predicting NAFLD incidence and remission were BMI and WC change independent of their baseline level.
ARF6 plays a general role in targeting palmitoylated proteins from the Golgi to the plasma membrane
Authors: Wang Juan , Zheng Lang-Fan , Ren Su , Li Dong-Lin , Chen Chen , Sun Hui-Hui , Liu Li-Ying , Guo Huiling , Zhao Tong-Jin 
Published: July 2023

ABSTRACT
Protein palmitoylation is a post-translational lipid modification of proteins. Accumulating evidence reveals that palmitoylation functions as a sorting signal to direct proteins to destinations; however, the sorting mechanism remains largely unknown. Here, we show that ARF6 plays a general role in targeting palmitoylated proteins from the Golgi to the plasma membrane (PM). Through shRNA screening, we identified ARF6 as the key small GTPase in targeting CD36, a palmitoylated protein, from the Golgi to the PM. We found that the N-terminal myristoylation of ARF6 is required for its binding with palmitoylated CD36, and the GTP-bound form of ARF6 facilitates the delivery of CD36 to the PM. Analysis of stable isotope labeling by amino acids in cell culture revealed that ARF6 might facilitate the sorting of 359 of the 531 palmitoylated PM proteins, indicating a general role of ARF6. Our study has thus identified a sorting mechanism for targeting palmitoylated proteins from the Golgi to the PM.
Implementing a quality improvement initiative for reducing intravenous antihypertensive utilization in the hospital setting: Improving patient outcomes without prolonging hospital stay
Authors: Alnazeer Moez , Jones Jessica , Ficklen David 
Published: July 2023

Background: This project aimed to implement a quality improvement initiative to reduce the utilization of non-indicated intravenous (IV) antihypertensive medications in the hospital setting and evaluate its impact on hospital length of stay. Methods: A quality improvement initiative was conducted at a 500-bed regional hospital to improve management of inpatients with asymptomatic severe hypertension. An algorithm was developed to guide management to minimize the inappropriate use of IV antihypertensives. Educational sessions were conducted with medical providers and nursing staff to promote adherence to the algorithm. Pharmacy records were reviewed to assess the utilization of IV antihypertensive medications. Aggregated length of hospital stay before and after the intervention were compared. Statistical analysis was performed using paired t-tests. Results: The utilization of IV antihypertensive medications was reduced by 47.6% after the intervention, as measured by days of therapy per 1000 patient days (p <0.001). However, the average length of hospital stay did not show a significant difference before and after the intervention (p = 0.094). Conclusions: The implementation of a quality improvement initiative, including an algorithm and education for healthcare staff, successfully reduced the utilization of non-indicated IV antihypertensive medications in the hospital setting. This approach has the potential to improve patient safety and reduce healthcare costs. Further research is needed to explore the long-term effectiveness of this intervention and its impact on patient outcomes.
The effectiveness of different aerobic exercises to improve pain intensity and disability in chronic low back pain patients: a systematic review
Authors: Sany Shabbir Ahmed , Mitsi Maria , Tanjim Taukir , Rahman Minhazur 
Published: July 2023

Background: Physical activity, including aerobic exercise, is highly recommended for chronic low back pain (CLBP) patients to improve pain intensity and functional disability. Objectives: To assess the effectiveness of different aerobic exercises to reduce pain intensity and functional disability in patients with CLBP. Methods: A computer-aided search was performed to find Randomised controlled Trials (RCTs) that evaluated the effectiveness of different aerobic exercises in CLBP. Articles published between January 2007 to December 2020 were included in the review. Quality assessment using the PEDro scale, extraction of relevant information, and evaluation of outcomes were done by two reviewers independently. Results: A total of 17 studies were included that involved 1146 participants. Outcomes suggested that aerobic exercise combined with other interventions was more effective than aerobic exercise alone. Aerobic exercise with higher frequency (≥ 5 days/week) and longer duration (≥ 12 weeks) were effective to gain clinically significant (≥ 30%) improvements. Environment and using pedometer did not seem to influence the outcomes. Conclusions: Pain intensity and functional disability in CLBP patients can be minimized by prescribing aerobic exercise. However, to get better improvements, aerobic exercise should be done in combination with other interventions and at optimum frequency and duration. Further studies should emphasize examining the optimal doses and period of different aerobic exercises.
The manifold costs of being a non-native English speaker in science
Authors: Amano Tatsuya , Ramírez-Castañeda Valeria , Berdejo-Espinola Violeta , Borokini Israel , Chowdhury Shawan , Golivets Marina , González-Trujillo Juan David , Montaño-Centellas Flavia , Paudel Kumar , White Rachel Louise , Veríssimo Diogo 
Published: July 2023

The use of English as the common language of science represents a major impediment to maximising the contribution of non-native English speakers to science. Yet few studies have quantified the consequences of language barriers on the career development of researchers who are non-native English speakers. By surveying 908 researchers in environmental sciences, this study estimates and compares the amount of effort required to conduct scientific activities in English between researchers from different countries and, thus, different linguistic and economic backgrounds. Our survey demonstrates that non-native English speakers, especially early in their careers, spend more effort than native English speakers in conducting scientific activities, from reading and writing papers and preparing presentations in English, to disseminating research in multiple languages. Language barriers can also cause them not to attend, or give oral presentations at, international conferences conducted in English. We urge scientific communities to recognise and tackle these disadvantages to release the untapped potential of non-native English speakers in science. This study also proposes potential solutions that can be implemented today by individuals, institutions, journals, funders, and conferences.
Please see the Supporting information files (S2–S6 Text) for Alternative Language Abstracts and Figs 5 and 6.
Isolated abnormal diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (iso↓DLco) is associated with increased respiratory symptom burden in people with HIV infection
Authors: Byanova Katerina L. , Fitzpatrick Jessica , Jan Amanda K. , McGing Maggie , Hartman-Filson Marlena , Farr Carly K. , Zhang Michelle , Gardner Kendall , Branchini Jake , Kerruish Robert , Bhide Sharvari , Bates Aryana , Hsieh Jenny , Abelman Rebecca , Hunt Peter W. , Wang Richard J. , Crothers Kristina A. , Huang Laurence 
Published: July 2023

Objectives
An isolated reduction in the diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (DLco; iso↓DLco) is one of the most common pulmonary function test (PFT) abnormalities in people living with HIV (PWH), but its clinical implications are incompletely understood. In this study, we explored whether iso↓DLco in PWH is associated with a greater respiratory symptom burden.

Study design
Cross-sectional analysis

Methods
We used ATS/ERS compliant PFTs from PWH with normal spirometry (post-bronchodilator FEV1/FVC ≥0.7; FEV1, FVC ≥80% predicted) from the I AM OLD cohort in San Francisco, CA and Seattle, WA, grouped by DLco categorized as normal (DLco ≥lower limit of normal, LLN), mild iso↓DLco (LLN >DLco >60% predicted), and moderate-severe iso↓DLco (DLco ≤60% predicted). We performed multivariable analyses to test for associations between DLco and validated symptom-severity and quality of life questionnaires, including the modified Medical Research Council dyspnea scale (mMRC), the COPD Assessment Test (CAT), and St. George’s Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ), as well as between DLco and individual CAT symptoms.

Results
Mild iso↓DLco was associated only with a significantly higher SGRQ score. Moderate-severe iso↓DLco was associated with significantly higher odds of mMRC ≥2 and significantly higher CAT and SGRQ scores. PWH with moderate-severe iso↓DLco had increased odds of breathlessness, decreased activity, lower confidence leaving home, and less energy.

Conclusions
Iso↓DLco is associated with worse respiratory symptom scores, and this association becomes stronger with worsening DLco, suggesting that impaired gas exchange alone has a significant negative impact on the quality of life in PWH. Additional studies are ongoing to understand the etiology of this finding and design appropriate interventions.
Islet autoantibodies and residual beta-cell function in children with type 1 diabetes depending on age of manifestation
Authors: Romanenkova E. M. , Zufarova I. M. , Sorokin D. Y. , Eremina I. A. , Sechko E. A. , Nikankina L. V. , Peterkova V. A. , Bezlepkina O. B. , Laptev D. N. 
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND: Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1D) is an autoimmune disorder that leads to pancreatic β-cells destruction and progressive decrease of insulin secretion. Specific islet autoantibodies (AAbs) are the main diagnostic marker of T1D. Residual β-cell function, as measured by C-peptide, has repeatedly been demonstrated to be clinically important.AIM: To study the frequency and levels of residual C-peptide secretion and persistence of pancreatic AAbs in children with T1D with different duration and age of manifestation of the disease.MATERIALS AND METHODS: The levels of C-peptide and AAbs to ZnT8 (zinc transporter 8), AAbs to IA-2 (Insulinoma Antigen 2), AAbs to GAD (Glutamate Decarboxylase), IAA (insulin autoantibodies) were measured. Patients were divided into 3 groups depending on the duration of T1D (1st — <1 year, 2nd — from 1 to 5 years, 3rd — >5 years) and age of manifestation (A — prepubertal and B — puberty).RESULTS: The median duration of T1D was 1.8 [0,8;3,9], 76.3% out of 1333 patients were seropositive, 40% had residual levels of C-peptide. With disease duration there were a decrease in AAbs+: 1st group 74%, 2nd group 69%, and 3rd group 48%. In all groups, percentage of patients with positive levels of one or more AAbs was significantly higher in children with T1D manifestation at puberty. GADA and ZnT8A were more common in the first year of the disease. IA-2A were observed with the same frequency in the group of adolescents. IAA were more common in patients at prepubertal age. An undetectable level of C-peptide was observed significantly higher in children with T1D manifestation in prepubertal age (p<0.05): 1А — 13% and 1B — 5%, 2А — 51% and 2B — 14%, 3А — 82% and 3B — 50%, reference range of C-peptide was observed in adolescents (p<0,05): 1А — 6% and 1B — 44%, 2А — 2% and 2b — 25%, 3А — 2% and 3B — 11%.CONCLUSION: AAbs+ is relatively common in children with T1D and about half of them are seropositive in more than 5 years after manifestation. GADA and ZnT8A have high specificity for patients with new-onset T1D. C-peptide secretion depends on the age of the disease manifestation.