bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exact operational matrices for rational Bernstein polynomials and its application for solving MHD problems
Authors: Salehi Fardin , Baharifard Fatemeh , Hossayni Sayyed Ali , Parand Kourosh
Published: July 2023

In this paper, rational Bernstein polynomials on the semi‐infinite interval are adapted to solve a magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) problem. Also, the derivative, product, convert, and Galerkin exact operational matrices (EOMs) of these polynomials are produced. Using the spectral Galerkin method and the exact operational matrices (EOMs) of rational Bernstein polynomials, we solve the problem with high accuracy and speed, and we estimate an exponential convergence rate in this method. The problem is the flow of MHD micropolar over a moving plate with suction and injection boundary conditions. Comparing the results of the rational Bernstein Galerkin method with operational matrices and without operational matrices shows that the present method is faster than another method. Also, comparing the results of the rational Bernstein Galerkin method and rational Gegenbauer tau method shows that the present method is more accurate than another method.
Serum potassium response to single‐dose sodium zirconium cyclosilicate for the treatment of asymptomatic hyperkalemia in hospitalized patients
Authors: Lewis Haley , Stamper Benton , Yungkurth Alyssa Claudio
Published: July 2023

Study Objective

To assess the efficacy of single‐dose sodium zirconium cyclosilicate (SZC) compared to the FDA approved three times daily (TID) dosing and to single‐dose sodium polystyrene sulfonate (SPS) for the management of asymptomatic hyperkalemia in hospitalized patients.

Design

Single‐center retrospective chart review.

Setting

University of Florida Health Jacksonville, a 695‐bed academic medical center in Jacksonville, FL, between June 15, 2018 and August 15, 2021.

Patients

Three hundred fifty‐one adult patients who were admitted to any hospital unit in the specified timeframe and received one of three interventions for asymptomatic hyperkalemia (serum potassium ≥4.7 mmol/L) were included in this study.

Intervention

The interventions compared were single‐dose SZC 10 g, SZC 10 g × 3 doses (30 g total) within 24 h, or SPS 15–30 g once.

Measurements and Main Results

The primary outcome was the proportion of patients achieving normokalemia (K+ 3.3–4.6 mmol/L) within 12–30 h of the first study dose. Secondary outcomes included average change in potassium within 12–30 h and 3–54 h from the first dose. The primary outcome was met in 68 patients (58.1%) in the SZC 10 g group, 51 (43.6%) in the SZC 10 g × 3 doses group, and 81 (69.2%) in the SPS 15–30 g group (p < 0.01). The average reduction in potassium in 12–30 h was 0.70 mmol/L, 0.78 mmol/L, and 0.99 mmol/L in the SZC 10 g, SZC 10 g × 3 doses, and SPS 15–30 g groups, respectively (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

SZC 10 g once resulted in more patients achieving normokalemia compared to SZC 10 g × 3 doses but less than SPS (p < 0.01). Single‐dose SZC may be a reasonable option to manage asymptomatic hyperkalemia in the hospital setting, but achieving normokalemia with one dose may be less likely in patients with higher baseline potassium concentrations and impaired renal function.
Comprehensive review of MS‐based studies on N‐glycoproteome and N‐glycome of extracellular vesicles
Authors: Li Yang , Wang Jun , Chen Weiyu , Lu Haojie , Zhang Ying
Published: July 2023

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are lipid bilayer‐enclosed particles that can be released by all type of cells. Whereas, as one of the most common post‐translational modifications, glycosylation plays a vital role in various biological functions of EVs, such as EV biogenesis, sorting, and cellular recognition. Nevertheless, compared with studies on RNAs or proteins, those investigating the glycoconjugates of EVs are limited. An in‐depth investigation of N‐glycosylation of EVs can improve the understanding of the biological functions of EVs and help to exploit EVs from different perspectives. The general focus of studies on glycosylation of EVs primarily includes isolation and characterization of EVs, preparation of glycoproteome/glycome samples and MS analysis. However, the low content of EVs and non‐standard separation methods for downstream analysis are the main limitations of these studies. In this review, we highlight the importance of glycopeptide/glycan enrichment and derivatization owing to the low abundance of glycoproteins and the low ionization efficiency of glycans. Diverse fragmentation patterns and professional analytical software are indispensable for analysing glycosylation via MS. Altogether, this review summarises recent studies on glycosylation of EVs, revealing the role of EVs in disease progression and their remarkable potential as biomarkers.
Differentiator‐based bearing‐only formation control of quadrotors
Authors: Lin Qiong , Miao Zhiqiang , Wang Yaonan , Wu Zheng‐Guang , He Wei , Fierro Rafael
Published: July 2023

This article addresses the leader‐follower formation control problem for a group of quadrotors using only relative bearing measurements. Most existing methods require full position or velocity information, which cis challenging to obtain in harsh environments. In contrast, the proposed control scheme is based on a hierarchical system that does not rely on relative position or velocity measurements. The bearing‐only control law is designed to stabilize the desired formation, and each quadrotor maintains predetermined bearings with its neighbors. The control design relies on a non‐singular extraction algorithm for separate design of translation and rotation control. The outer loop of the control scheme utilizes a filter‐like approach to overcome the lack of bearing rate measurements in the bearing‐only formation controller. Moreover, employing differentiators following the separation principle with properties of asymptotic high accuracy, a uniform differentiator is provided for each following quadrotor to overcome the absence of linear velocity and acceleration feedback in the inner‐loop controller. Ultimately, the efficacy of the proposed control strategy is validated through a combination of Lyapunov stability theory and extensive numerical simulations.
Error estimates of piezoelectric Signorini's contact problems
Authors: El Khalfi Hamid , Baiz Othmane , Benaissa Hicham
Published: July 2023

This paper deals with a study the linear finite element approximation of a piezoelectric Signorini's contact problem with and without friction. We derive error estimates that depend on the penalty parameter ε and the mesh size h. Moreover, under some regularities of the solution to the contact problems and some requirements on parameters ε and h, we provide results on the convergence rate of the finite element approximation of the penalized solution.
Biotechnological development of Trichoderma-based formulations for biological control
Authors: Martinez Yolanda , Ribera Javier , Schwarze Francis W. M. R. , De France Kevin
Published: July 2023

Trichoderma spp. are a genus of well-known fungi that promote healthy growth and modulate different functions in plants, as well as protect against various plant pathogens. The application of Trichoderma and its propagules as a biological control method can therefore help to reduce the use of chemical pesticides and fertilizers in agriculture. This review critically discusses and analyzes groundbreaking innovations over the past few decades of biotechnological approaches to prepare active formulations containing Trichoderma. The use of various carrier substances is covered, emphasizing their effects on enhancing the shelf life, viability, and efficacy of the final product formulation. Furthermore, the use of processing techniques such as freeze drying, fluidized bed drying, and spray drying are highlighted, enabling the development of stable, light-weight formulations. Finally, promising microencapsulation techniques for maximizing the performance of Trichoderma spp. during application processes are discussed, leading to the next-generation of multi-functional biological control formulations.

Key points

• The development of carrier substances to encapsulate Trichoderma propagules is highlighted.

• Advances in biotechnological processes to prepare Trichoderma-containing formulations are critically discussed.

• Current challenges and future outlook of Trichoderma-based formulations in the context of biological control are presented.
Evaluation of fracture behavior in short fiber–reinforced direct and indirect overlay restorations
Authors: Garoushi S. , Akbaşak-Sungur A. Ö. , Erkut S. , Vallittu P. K. , Uctasli S. , Lassila L.
Published: July 2023

Objectives

The aim was to assess how incorporating a short-fiber composite (SFC) core would affect the fracture behavior of direct and indirect overlays. Furthermore, to examine the relationship between the thickness ratio of SFC core to particulate-filled composite (PFC) veneering and the fracture-behavior of bilayered-structured restorations.

Materials and methods

A total of 120 molars were used to create MOD cavities, with palatal cusps removed. Four different groups of direct overlays were then made (n = 15/group), all of which featured a SFC core (everX Flow) with varying thicknesses (0, 1, 4, and 5 mm), as well as a surface layer of PFC (G-aenial Posterior), with the overall thickness of the bilayered-structured restoration set at 5 mm. Additionally, four groups of CAD/CAM restorations were created (Cerasmart 270 and Initial LiSi Block), with or without 2 mm of SFC core reinforcement. Following the fabrication of these restorations, cyclic fatigue aging was carried out for a total of 500,000 cycles, with an applied maximum load (Fmax) of 150 N. Subsequently, each restoration underwent quasi-static loading until fracture. The fracture mode was subsequently evaluated using optical microscopy and SEM.

Results

There were no statistically significant differences (p > 0.05) observed in the fracture resistance of indirect overlays reinforced with a 2-mm SFC core compared to those made solely from restorative materials. Direct overlays constructed using plain SFC or with a 4-mm layer thickness of SFC core exhibited significantly higher fracture resistance values (2674 ± 465 and 2537 ± 561 N) (p < 0.05) when compared to all other groups tested, according to the statistical analysis ANOVA.

Conclusions

The most effective method for restoring large MOD cavities was found to be direct restoration using SFC either alone or as a bulk core in combination with PFC composite.

Clinical relevance

The use of SFC as bulk reinforcing base will significantly improve the loading performance of directly layered restorations.
Oral Health of Women and Children: Progress, Challenges, and Priorities
Authors: Kumar Jayanth , Crall James J. , Holt Katrina
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Tooth decay remains the most prevalent chronic disease in children and adults, even though it is largely preventable. Studies show that mothers’ oral and overall health is linked to children’s oral health and pregnancy outcomes. This paper examines achievements during the last 20 years, assesses current challenges, and discusses future priorities.

Oral health status

Data show a modest improvement in children’s oral health during the last 20 years; however, tooth decay still affects more than half of adolescents. According to national survey data, about 26% of working-age adults had untreated tooth decay. Overall, significant oral health disparities by race/ethnicity and income persist.

Dental service utilization

The annual dental visit rate for children in the 2015 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey was 48%. Among children enrolled in Medicaid, dental visit rates increased from 18% in 1993 to nearly 50% in 2018. About 46% of women are estimated to receive teeth cleaning during pregnancy. Over the years, race or ethnicity and income-level differences in dental visits observed in the early 2000s have narrowed substantially in children but not among pregnant women.

Discussion

Many effective interventions are available at the community and individual levels but are underutilized. Lack of integration of oral health into the overall health care system and programs, community conditions, poverty, and limited health literacy make it difficult for families to engage in healthy habits, use preventive interventions, and access treatment promptly.

Conclusion

To further improve oral health, policy and system reforms are needed to address the factors mentioned above. Therefore, we urge the federal Maternal and Child Health Bureau to take steps to convene a workshop to develop a framework for future actions.
Discovering a change point and piecewise linear structure in a time series of organoid networks via the iso-mirror
Authors: Chen Tianyi , Park Youngser , Saad-Eldin Ali , Lubberts Zachary , Athreya Avanti , Pedigo Benjamin D. , Vogelstein Joshua T. , Puppo Francesca , Silva Gabriel A. , Muotri Alysson R. , Yang Weiwei , White Christopher M. , Priebe Carey E.
Published: July 2023

Recent advancements have been made in the development of cell-based in-vitro neuronal networks, or organoids. In order to better understand the network structure of these organoids, a super-selective algorithm has been proposed for inferring the effective connectivity networks from multi-electrode array data. In this paper, we apply a novel statistical method called spectral mirror estimation to the time series of inferred effective connectivity organoid networks. This method produces a one-dimensional iso-mirror representation of the dynamics of the time series of the networks which exhibits a piecewise linear structure. A classical change point algorithm is then applied to this representation, which successfully detects a change point coinciding with the neuroscientifically significant time inhibitory neurons start appearing and the percentage of astrocytes increases dramatically. This finding demonstrates the potential utility of applying the iso-mirror dynamic structure discovery method to inferred effective connectivity time series of organoid networks.
Enhancing a Willingness to Respond to Disasters and Public Health Emergencies Among Health Care Workers, Using mHealth Intervention: A Multidisciplinary Approach
Authors: Mehmood Amber , Barnett Daniel J. , Kang Bee-Ah , Chhipa Ume-e-Aiman , Asad Nargis , Afzal Badar , Razzak Junaid A.
Published: July 2023

Health care workers (HCWs) are increasingly faced with the continuous threat of confronting acute disasters, extreme weather-related events, and protracted public health emergencies. One of the major factors that determines emergency-department-based HCWs’ willingness to respond during public health emergencies and disasters is self-efficacy. Despite increased public awareness of the threat of disasters and heightened possibility of future public health emergencies, the emphasis on preparing the health care workforce for such disasters is inadequate in low-and-middle-income countries (LMICs). Interventions for boosting self-efficacy and response willingness in public health emergencies and disasters have yet to be implemented or examined among emergency HCWs in LMICs. Mobile health (mHealth) technology seems to be a promising platform for such interventions, especially in a resource-constrained setting. This paper introduces an mHealth-focused project that demonstrates a model of multi-institutional and multidisciplinary collaboration for research and training to enhance disaster response willingness among emergency department workers in Pakistan.
Trends in the Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Literature: A Bibliometric Analysis in the COVID-19 Era
Authors: Gupta Aashray K. , Kerr Lachlan D. , Stretton Brandon , Kovoor Joshua G. , Ovenden Christopher D. , Hewitt Joseph N. , Chan Justin C.Y.
Published: July 2023

Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) was first used in the 1970s. Its use is increasingly common in critical care and perioperative settings and has gained newfound prominence during COVID-19. To guide future research, we conducted a bibliometric analysis of ECMO literature. Thomson Reuters Web of Science was searched to March 7, 2021. Articles were ranked by total number of citations. Data was extracted from the 100 most cited papers relevant to ECMO for study design, topic, author, year, and institution. Journal impact factor for 2019 and Eigenfactor scores were also recorded. Our search retrieved a total of 18,802 articles. Median number of citations for the top 100 articles was 220 (range 157–1,819). These were published in 34 journals, with first authors originating from 15 countries. The Annals of Thoracic Surgery had the highest number of articles (n = 9) while Lancet publications had the most citations (n = 3,191). Use of ECMO was most commonly observed in cardiogenic shock or acute respiratory distress syndrome. United States had the greatest article output (n = 49). With 10 publications, 2013 was the most prolific year. Using linear regression, when controlled for time since publication, there was no statistically significant relationship between 2019 journal impact factor and number of article citations (p = .09). Top articles in the ECMO literature are of considerable impact and quality. As the United States produced the bulk of the prominent evidence base, and most data were regarding respiratory issues, outsized advances in ECMO may be possible within the United States during the COVID-19 era.
Vegetation, topography, and soil depth drive microbial community structure in two Swedish grasslands
Authors: Guasconi Daniela , Juhanson Jaanis , Clemmensen Karina E , Cousins Sara A O , Hugelius Gustaf , Manzoni Stefano , Roth Nina , Fransson Petra
Published: July 2023

Soil microbial diversity and community composition are shaped by various factors linked to land management, topographic position, and vegetation. To study the effects of these drivers, we characterized fungal and bacterial communities from bulk soil at four soil depths ranging from the surface to below the rooting zone of two Swedish grasslands with differing land-use histories, each including both an upper and a lower catenary position. We hypothesized that differences in plant species richness and plant functional group composition between the four study sites would drive the variation in soil microbial community composition and correlate with microbial diversity, and that microbial biomass and diversity would decrease with soil depth following a decline in resource availability. While vegetation was identified as the main driver of microbial community composition, the explained variation was significantly higher for bacteria than for fungi, and the communities differed more between grasslands than between catenary positions. Microbial biomass derived from DNA abundance decreased with depth, but diversity remained relatively stable, indicating diverse microbial communities even below the rooting zone. Finally, plant-microbial diversity correlations were significant only for specific plant and fungal functional groups, emphasizing the importance of functional interactions over general species richness.
Genetic and healthy lifestyle factors in relation to the incidence and prognosis of severe liver disease in the Chinese population
Authors: Pang Yuanjie , Lv Jun , Kartsonaki Christiana , Yu Canqing , Guo Yu , Chen Yiping , Yang Ling , Millwood Iona Y. , Walters Robin G. , Lv Silu , Burgess Sushila , Sansome Sam , Chen Junshi , Chen Zhengming , Li Liming
Published: July 2023

Background:

Severe liver disease (SLD), including cirrhosis and liver cancer, constitutes a major disease burden in China. We aimed to examine the association of genetic and healthy lifestyle factors with the incidence and prognosis of SLD.

Methods:

The study population included 504,009 participants from the prospective China Kadoorie Biobank aged 30–79 years. The individuals were from 10 diverse areas in China without a history of cancer or liver disease at baseline. Cox regression was used to estimate adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) for incident SLD and death after SLD diagnosis associated with healthy lifestyle factors (smoking, alcohol, physical activity, and central adiposity). Additionally, the contribution of genetic risk for hepatitis B virus (HBV, assessed by genetic variants in major histocompatibility complex, class II, DP/DQ [HLA-DP/DQ] genes) was also estimated.

Results:

Compared with those with 0–1 healthy lifestyle factor, participants with 2, 3, and 4 factors had 12% (HR 0.88 [95% confidence interval [CI] 0.85, 0.92]), 26% (HR 0.74 [95%CI: 0.69, 0.79]), and 44% (HR 0.56 [95%CI: 0.48, 0.65]) lower risks of SLD, respectively. Inverse associations were observed among participants with both low and high genetic risks (HR per 1-point increase 0.83 [95%CI: 0.74, 0.94] and 0.91 [95%CI: 0.82, 1.02], respectively; P
interaction = 0.51), although with a non-significant trend among those with a high genetic risk. Inverse associations were also observed between healthy lifestyle factors and liver biomarkers regardless of the genetic risk. Despite the limited power, healthy lifestyle factors were associated with a lower risk of death after incident SLD among participants with a low genetic risk (HR 0.59 [95%CI: 0.37, 0.96]).

Conclusions:

Lifestyle modification may be beneficial in terms of lowering the risk of SLD regardless of the genetic risk. Moreover, it is also important for improving the prognosis of SLD in individuals with a low genetic risk. Future studies are warranted to examine the impact of healthy lifestyles on SLD prognosis, particularly among individuals with a high genetic risk.
Effects of different exercise modalities on lipid profile in the elderly population: A meta-analysis
Authors: Yun Hezhang , Su Wenbo , Zhao Haotian , Li Huixin , Wang Zhongjie , Cui Xianyou , Xi Changjin , Gao Ruirui , Sun Yaowei , Liu Chang
Published: July 2023

Background:

Dyslipidemia, characterized by elevated total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), as well as decreased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), has long been recognized as a major risk factor for age-related diseases. Recent studies have shown that exercise can be effective in mitigating dyslipidemia in older adults. The aim of this study was to systematically evaluate the effects of different exercise modalities (aerobic exercise [AE], resistance exercise [RE], aerobic+resistance exercise [AE+RE], and high-intensity interval training) on lipid profile in the elderly population, in order to identify the most effective exercise modality for maintaining lipid profile health in older adults.

Methods:

A comprehensive database search of PubMed, EBSCO, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and Wanfang database. Eligible studies were individually assessed according to the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool version 2, and the data were analyzed and processed using RevMan 5.4.1 analysis software.

Results:

This study identified 20 randomized controlled trials with a total of 988 subjects, of which 541 were in the exercise group and 447 in the control group. Our analysis showed that AE significantly reduced TC (P < .05), triglycerides (P < .01), and LDL-C (P < .01), while increasing HDL-C (P < .01) in the elderly population. RE significantly reduced the elevation of TC (P < .01) and LDL-C (P < .05) indices in the elderly population, while AE+RE had a significant effect on decreasing TC (P < .01) and LDL-C (P < .01) indices.

Conclusion:

Our analysis indicates that AE is the most effective exercise modality for reducing dyslipidemia in older adults, compared to RE, AE+RE, and high-intensity interval training. These findings suggest that AE should be promoted as an important lifestyle intervention to improve lipid profile health in the elderly population. However, further research is needed to investigate the optimal duration, frequency, and intensity of AE required to achieve the most beneficial effects on lipid profile health in older adults.
Prognostic impact of metastatic patterns and treatment modalities on overall survival in lung squamous cell carcinoma: A population-based study
Authors: Qin Lang , Yu Xiangtian , Xu Chuang , Liu Yangchen
Published: July 2023

This study aimed to investigate the impact of distinct metastasis patterns on the overall survival (OS) of individuals diagnosed with organ metastatic lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC). OS was calculated using the Kaplan–Meier method, and univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were conducted to further assess prognostic factors. A total of 36,025 cases meeting the specified criteria were extracted from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database. Among these patients, 30.60% (11,023/36,025) were initially diagnosed at stage IV, and 22.03% (7936/36,025) of these individuals exhibited metastasis in at least 1 organ, including the liver, bone, lung, and brain. Among the 4 types of single metastasis, patients with bone metastasis had the lowest mean OS, at 9.438 months (95% CI: 8.684–10.192). Furthermore, among patients with dual-organ metastases, those with both brain and liver metastases had the shortest mean OS, at 5.523 months (95% CI: 3.762–7.285). Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that metastatic site is an independent prognostic factor for OS in patients with single and dual-organ metastases. Chemotherapy was beneficial for patients with single and multiple-organ metastases; although surgery was advantageous for those with single and dual-organ metastases, it did not affect the long-term prognosis of patients with triple organ metastases. Radiotherapy only conferred benefits to patients with single-organ metastasis. LUSC patients exhibit a high incidence of metastasis at the time of initial diagnosis, with significant differences in long-term survival among patients with different patterns of metastasis. Among single-organ metastasis cases, lung metastasis is the most frequent and is associated with the longest mean OS. Regarding treatment options, patients with single-organ metastasis can benefit from chemotherapy, surgery, and radiotherapy, and those with metastasis in 2 organs can benefit from chemotherapy and surgery. Patients with metastasis in more than 2 organs, however, can only benefit from chemotherapy. Understanding the variations in metastasis patterns assists in guiding pretreatment assessments and in determining appropriate therapeutic interventions for LUSC.
Imaging Characteristics Predictive of Cervical Extranodal Tumor Extension in Patients With Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Hancioglu Tugce , Pekcevik Yeliz , Akdogan Aslı Irmak , Kucuk Ulku , Ekmekci Sumeyye , Arslan Ilker Burak , Cukurova Ibrahim
Published: July 2023

Objectives

The aims of the study were to determine the predictive imaging findings of extranodal extension (ENE) in metastatic cervical lymph nodes of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma and to investigate the interobserver agreement among radiologists with different experience levels.

Materials and Methods

Patients with cervical lymph node dissection and who had metastatic lymph nodes and preoperative imaging were included. Three radiologists evaluated nodal necrosis, irregular contour, gross invasion, and perinodal fat stranding. They also noted their overall impression regarding the presence of the ENE. Sensitivity, specificity, odds ratios based on logistic regression, and interobserver agreement of ENE status were calculated.

Results

Of 106 lymph nodes (that met inclusion criteria), 31 had radiologically determined ENE. On pathologic examination, 22 of 31 nodes were positive for ENE. The increasing number of metastatic lymph nodes was associated with the presence of the ENE (P = 0.010). Irregular contour had the highest sensitivity (78.6%) and gross invasion had the highest specificity (96%) for the determination of the ENE. The radiologists' impression regarding the presence of the pathlogical ENE had 39.3% sensitivity and 82% specificity. Metastatic lymph nodes with a perinodal fat stranding and with the longest diameter of greater than 2 cm were found to be strong predictors of the ENE. The gross invasion demonstrated the highest κ value (0.731) among the evaluated imaging criteria.

Conclusions

In the assessment of ENE, the gross invasion had the highest specificity among imaging features and showed the highest interobserver agreement. Perinodal fat stranding and the longest diameter of greater than 2 cm in a metastatic lymph node were the best predictors of the ENE.
Argentine Guidelines for the Prevention and Treatment of Glucocorticoid-Induced Osteoporosis in Postmenopausal Women and Men Aged 50 Years and Older
Authors: Brance María L. , Larroudé María S. , Zamora Natalia V. , Bagur Alicia , Graf César E. , Giacoia Evangelina , Diehl María , Somma Luis F. , Schneeberger Emilce , Salerni Helena H. , Rey Paula , Varsavsky Mariela , González Diana C. , Massari Fabio , Sánchez Julio A. , Galich Ana M. , Berbotto Guillermo , García María L. , Zanchetta María Belén , Martínez Muñoz Alejandro , Chavero Ignacio , Ramirez Stieben Luis A. , Maher María C. , Abdala Rubén , Pérez Betiana , De La Vega María C. , Mansur José L. , Brun Lucas R. ,   On Behalf AAOMM (Argentinean Association of Osteology and Mineral Metabolism), SAO (Argentinean Osteoporosis Society), and SAR (Argentinean Rheumatology Society)
Published: July 2023

Objective

The aim of this study was to provide an evidence-based framework to guide health care professionals treating patients under glucocorticoid (GC) therapy and develop guidelines for the prevention and treatment of glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis (GIO) in postmenopausal women and men aged ≥50 years.

Methods

An expert panel on bone diseases designed a series of clinically meaningful questions following the PICO (Population, Intervention, Comparator, and Outcome) structure. Using GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) methodology, we made a systematic literature review, extracted and summarized the effect estimates, and graded the quality of the evidence. The expert panel voted each PICO question and made recommendations after reaching an agreement of at least 70%.

Results

Seventeen recommendations (9 strong and 8 conditional) and 8 general principles were developed for postmenopausal women and men aged ≥50 years under GC treatment. Bone mineral density (BMD), occurrence of fragility fractures, probability of fracture at 10 years by Fracture Risk Assessment Tool, and other screening factors for low BMD are recommended for patient evaluation and stratification according to fragility fracture risk. The treatment of patients under GC therapy should include counseling on lifestyle habits and strict control of comorbidities. The goal of GIO treatment is the nonoccurrence of new fragility fractures as well as to increase or maintain BMD in certain clinical situations. This was considered for the therapeutic approach in different clinical scenarios.

Conclusions

This GIO guideline provides evidence-based guidance for health care providers treating patients.
Mitochondrial DNA 13513G>A Mutation Causing Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy Associated With Adult-Onset Renal Failure
Authors: Swart Grace , Fraser Clare L. , Shingde Meena , Thompson Elizabeth O. , Mallawaarachchi Amali , Lawlor Mitchell , Ahmad Kate , Halmagyi Gabor M.
Published: July 2023

Background:

Leber hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) is one of the more common mitochondrial diseases and is rarely associated with mitochondrial renal disease. We report 3 unrelated patients with a background of adult-onset renal failure who presented to us with LHON and were shown to have a heteroplasmic mitochondrial DNA mutation (m.13513G>A).

Methods:

Retrospective chart review.

Results:

All 3 patients had a background of chronic renal failure and presented to us with bilateral optic neuropathy (sequential in 2) and were found to have heteroplasmic m.13513G>A mutations in the MT-ND5 gene. Two of the patients were females (aged 30 and 45 years) with chronic kidney disease from their 20s, attributed to pre-eclampsia, one of whom also had diabetes and sudden bilateral hearing loss. One patient was a male (aged 54 years) with chronic kidney disease from his 20s attributed to IgA nephropathy. His mother had diabetes and apparently sudden bilateral blindness in her 70s. Renal biopsy findings were variable and included interstitial fibrosis, acute tubular necrosis, focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, and IgA/C3 tubular casts on immunofluorescence. Mild improvements in vision followed treatment with either idebenone or a combination supplement including coenzyme Q10, alpha-lipoic acid, and B vitamins.

Conclusions:

Our cases expand the clinical syndromes associated with m.13513G>A to include bilateral optic neuropathy and adult-onset renal disease. This highlights that in patients with bilateral, especially sequential, optic neuropathy a broad approach to mitochondrial testing is more useful than a limited LHON panel. Mitochondrial diseases present a diagnostic challenge because of their clinical and genetic variability.
Epigenetic features of far northern Yakutian population
Authors: Kalyakulina Alena , Yusipov Igor , Kondakova Elena , Bacalini Maria Giulia , Giuliani Cristina , Sivtseva Tatiana , Semenov Sergey , Ksenofontov Artem , Nikolaeva Maria , Khusnutdinova Elza , Zakharova Raisa , Vedunova Maria , Franceschi Claudio , Ivanchenko Mikhail
Published: July 2023

Yakuts are one of the indigenous populations of the subarctic and arctic territories of Siberia characterized by a continental subarctic climate with severe winters, with the regular January average temperature in the regional capital city of Yakutsk dipping below −40°C. The epigenetic mechanisms of adaptation to such ecologies and environments and, in particular, epigenetic age acceleration in the local population have not been studied before. This work reports the first epigenetic study of the Yakutian population using whole blood DNA methylation data, supplemented with the comparison to the residents of Central Russia. Gene set enrichment analysis revealed, among others, geographic region-specific differentially methylated regions associated with adaptation to climatic conditions (water consumption, digestive system regulation), aging processes (actin filament activity, cell fate), and both of them (channel activity, regulation of steroid and corticosteroid hormone secretion). Further, it is demonstrated that the epigenetic age acceleration of the Yakutian representatives is significantly higher than that of Central Russia counterparts. For both geographic regions, we showed that epigenetically males age faster than females, whereas no significant sex differences were found between the regions.
Double Imprinted Nanoparticles for Sequential Membrane-to-Nuclear Drug Delivery
Authors: Singla Pankaj , Broughton Thomas , Sullivan Mark V. , Garg Saweta , Berlinguer-Palmini Rolando , Gupta Priyanka , Canfarotta Francesco , Turner Nicholas W. , Velliou Eirini , Amarnath Shoba , Peeters Marloes
Published: July 2023

Nanoparticles functionalized with specific receptors (e.g.,antibodies, peptides) are used for targeted drug delivery of anti-cancer agents but their side effects include hypersensitivity reactions, toxicity, inflammation, and life-threatening allergic reactions (Anaphylaxis) [1,2]. Consequently, double imprinted molecularly imprinted nanoparticles (nanoMIPs) against a linear epitope of breast cancer cell receptor estrogen alpha (ERα) and loaded with an anti-cancer agent (doxorubicin, DOX) are synthesized via a solid-phase approach. Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) measurements reveal that the produced nanoMIPs exhibit KDvalues of 19 nM (against the epitope used for imprinting) and 10 nM (ERα receptor), and thus rival the affinity of nanoparticles decorated with natural affinity reagents (e.g.,antibodies, peptides), whilst offering the advantages of low-cost and enhanced cellular uptake due to the receptor mediated endocytosis. We present the results ofin vitroflow cytometry that DOX loaded nanoMIPs can preferentially bind to MCF-7 (ERα positive) breast cancer (BC) cells vs MDA-MB-231 (ERα negative) BC cells. Confocal imaging witnessed the above results and showed the sequential movement of the DOX loaded nanoMIPs from membrane to the nucleus of MCF-7 BC cells and achieve delivery of DOX once internalised in the cells (directly to the nucleus). As a result, enhanced cell toxicity in MCF-7 cells (∼80%) as compared to MDA-MB-231 cells (∼15%) is observed via MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide) cytotoxicity assay in a time dependent manner. Overall, this study provides a promising approach for the targeted drug delivery of chemotherapeutic drugs to breast cancer cells, which has the potential to significantly improve patient outcome whilst also reducing debilitating side effects of current treatment.
A tripartite bacterial-fungal-plant symbiosis in the mycorrhiza-shaped microbiome drives plant growth and mycorrhization
Authors: Zhang Changfeng , van der Heijden Marcel G. A. , Dodds Bethany K. , Nguyen Thi Bich , Spooren Jelle , Held Alain , Cosme Marco , Berendsen Roeland L.
Published: July 2023

Plant microbiomes play crucial roles in nutrient cycling and plant growth, and are shaped by a complex interplay between plants, microbes, and the environment. The role of bacteria as mediators of the 400-million-year-old partnership between the majority of land plants and, arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi is still poorly understood. Here we test whether AM hyphae-associated bacteria influence the success of the AM symbiosis. Using partitioned microcosms containing field soil, we discovered that AM hyphae and roots selectively assemble their own microbiome from the surrounding soil. In two independent experiments, we identified several bacterial genera, includingDevosia, that are consistently enriched on AM hyphae. Subsequently, we isolated 144 pure bacterial isolates from a mycorrhiza-rich sample of extraradical hyphae and isolatedDevosiasp. ZB163 as root and hyphal colonizer. We show that this AM-associated bacterium synergistically acts with mycorrhiza on the plant root to strongly promote plant growth, nitrogen uptake, and mycorrhization. Our results highlight that AM fungi do not function in isolation and that the plant-mycorrhiza symbiont can recruit beneficial bacteria that support the symbiosis.
Deciphering HR challenges for organizational ambidexterity: a study on energy sector in India
Authors: Dash Itilekha , Gupta Jaya , Meher Jamini Ranjan
Published: July 2023

Purpose

From the lens of organizational ambidexterity, the energy sector companies in India are confronted with numerous human resources (HR) challenges as they explore new avenues in the renewable sector while exploiting non-renewable (conventional) resources. This study aims to decode these challenges and identifies key competencies to address these.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were gathered and analysed using a sequential mixed methodology (qualitative and quantitative) in three phases. In Phase 1, a focused group discussion with eight senior management employees was carried out to identify the HR challenges and competencies required for meeting those challenges. The themes derived from this were used in designing the questionnaire for use in Phase 2 to capture the perceptual differences between HR and Line managers on these challenges. The identified competencies by senior management were prioritized using the analytical hierarchy process in Phase 3.

Findings

The study provides insight into the HR challenges in the pursuit of organizational ambidexterity by energy sector companies in India. Also, key competencies to deal with these challenges have been prescribed.

Originality/value

While previous studies have identified generic HR challenges in this domain, the present study is unique in decoding the HR challenges as these organizations are simultaneously exploring and exploiting energy sources for achieving excellence in the Indian context.
Personal responsibility and knowledge about money laundering: a study with Brazilian accountants
Authors: Sallaberry Jonatas Dutra , Venturini Lauren Dal Bem , Martínez-Conesa Isabel , Flach Leonardo
Published: July 2023

Purpose

This study aims to analyze the relationship between the personal responsibility, the intrinsic knowledge of the norms and the knowledge of signs of money laundering of accountants.

Design/methodology/approach

The research was developed with responses from 381 Brazilian accounting professionals through a survey, statistically analyzed using structural equations.

Findings

The results indicate that personal responsibility directly affects the levels of intrinsic knowledge and knowledge about signs of money laundering; however, the different dimensions of knowledge were not related to each other.

Practical implications

From these results, organizations can clarify the individual about their responsibility, optimizing the use of training and mitigating costs, with greater sustainability and security for the organization, employees and business partners.

Social implications

The results contribute to the construction and modeling of latent constructs on money laundering knowledge, with validity, reliability and statistical significance.

Originality/value

This research discusses and empirically explores the knowledge about money laundering of the accountants’, one of the main explanatory factors of whistleblowing in business.
Building an initial understanding of UK Recovery College dementia courses: a national survey of Recovery College and memory services staff
Authors: Wolverson Emma , Hague Leanne , West Juniper , Teague Bonnie , Fox Christopher , Birt Linda , Mills Ruth , Rhodes Tom , Sams Kathryn , Moniz-Cook Esme
Published: July 2023

Purpose

Recovery Colleges were developed to support the recovery of people with mental health difficulties through courses co-produced by professionals and people with lived experience. This study aims to examine the use of Recovery Colleges to support people with dementia.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was circulated to UK Recovery College and memory service staff, exploring provision, delivery and attendance of dementia courses. Open responses provided insight into participant views about recovery in post-diagnostic support and the practicalities of running dementia courses.

Findings

A total of 51 Recovery College staff and 210 memory service staff completed the survey. Twelve Recovery College dementia courses were identified across the UK. Three categories emerged from the qualitative data: post-diagnostic support, recovery in the context of dementia, challenges and areas of innovation.

Originality/value

This study highlights the benefits and practicalities of running Recovery College courses with people with dementia. Peer-to-peer learning was seen as valuable in post-diagnostic support but opinions were divided about the term recovery in dementia.
Exploiting fear and vulnerabilities of senior citizens: are regulatory changes required to prevent digital frauds?
Authors: Murthy Nilaya , Gopalkrishnan Santosh
Published: July 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to understand the emotional patterns of senior citizens when they digitally transact online and how the personality trait of neuroticism can be a vital part of being susceptible to fraud. The authors identify with the cognitive aspect of fear as a vista of neuroscience and behavioural finance in digital banking in today’s banking 5.0 where consumer centricity stands as one of the pillars of the Digital Payment Index of RBI.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is empirical and investigative in nature. Primary data has been collected through online questionnaires (via Google Forms) and the interview method to understand the phenomenology of fear and incidents related to becoming victims of fraud and its propensity.

Findings

The results exhibit that fear and emotional patterns do affect vulnerability and have a long-lasting psychological impact and susceptivity towards digital frauds.

Practical implications

Fear as an emotion is used to understand the emotional expressive patterns of senior citizens as consumers of digital banking. The OCEAN model is one of the widely used personality models at the global level. This research study helps in highlighting the nuances linked to the behavioural and cognitive part of fear in digital crime.

Originality/value

This research will be beneficial to reduce the susceptibility towards fraud from a behavioural perspective in the usage of digital banking and evaluate solutions for senior citizens to mitigate and cope up with the pressures and perils associated with digital frauds.
MOMS: A pipeline for scaffolding using multi‐optical maps
Authors: Xu Jiang , Liao Baosheng , Guo Shuai , Xiao Shuiming , Liao Xuejiao , Jiang Hongshan , Zang Chen , Shen Xiaofeng , Chu Yang , Wu Wenguang , Dou Deqiang , Luo Lu , Li Qiushi , Yang Tae‐Jin , Guo Yiming , Huang Zhihai , Chen Shilin
Published: July 2023

Here, we report a new multi‐optical maps scaffolder (MOMS) aiming at utilizing complementary information among optical maps labelled by distinct enzymes. This pipeline was designed for data structure organization, scaffolding by path traversal, gap‐filling and molecule reuse of optical maps. Our testing showed that this pipeline has uncapped enzyme tolerance in scaffolding. This means that there are no inbuilt limits as to the number of maps generated by different enzymes that can be utilized by MOMS. For the genome assembly of the human GM12878 cell line, MOMS significantly improved the contiguity and completeness with an up to 144‐fold increase of scaffold N50 compared with initial assemblies. Benchmarking on the genomes of human and O. sativa showed that MOMS is more effective and robust compared with other optical‐map‐based scaffolders. We believe this pipeline will contribute to high‐fidelity chromosome assembly and chromosome‐level evolutionary analysis.
Psychotic‐like experiences and multimorbid psychopathology: The relationship between the 16‐item prodromal questionnaire and DSM‐IV classifications in a help‐seeking population
Authors: Palstra Eline C. , Ferwerda Janneke , van Duin Esther D. A. , Ising Helga K. , Nugter M. Annet , Smit Filip , van der Gaag Mark , van den Berg David
Published: July 2023

Aim

Identifying multimorbid psychopathology is necessary to offer more adequate treatment and ultimately reduce the prevalence of persistent mental illnesses. Psychotic symptoms are increasingly seen as a transdiagnostic indicator of multimorbidity, severity and complexity of non‐psychotic psychopathology. This study aims to investigate whether psychotic‐like experiences and subclinical psychotic symptoms as measured by the 16‐item Prodromal Questionnaire are also associated with multimorbid psychopathology.

Methods

Participants were help‐seeking individuals from outpatient mental healthcare settings and intensive home‐treatment teams, aged 17–35. Assessment included the 16‐item Prodromal Questionnaire to measure psychotic‐like experiences, the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM‐IV Axis I, and three sections of the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM‐IV Axis II Disorders to determine DSM‐IV‐TR classifications. The final sample comprised of 160 participants who scored above a cutoff of 6 items on the 16‐item Prodromal Questionnaire (HIGH‐score) and 60 participants who scored below cutoff (LOW‐score). A Poisson Regression was executed to determine the association between the PQ‐16 and DSM‐IV‐TR classifications.

Results

The HIGH‐score group had a mean of 2.76 multimorbid disorders (range 0–7), while the LOW‐score group had a mean of 1.45 disorders (range 0–3). Participants with four to seven disorders scored high on the 16‐item Prodromal Questionnaire.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that psychotic‐like experiences are associated with multimorbidity and severity of psychopathology. Screening for psychotic‐like experiences via the PQ‐16 in a help‐seeking population may help prevent under‐diagnosis and under‐treatment of comorbid psychopathology.