bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Time-dependent material properties of ageing biomolecular condensates from different viscoelasticity measurements in molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Tejedor Andrés R. , Collepardo-Guevara Rosana , Ramírez Jorge , Espinosa Jorge R.
Published: December 2022

Biomolecular condensates are important contributors to the internal organization of the cell material. While initially described as liquid-like droplets, the term biomolecular condensates is now used to describe a diversity of condensed phase assemblies with material properties extending from low to high viscous liquids, gels, and even glasses. Because the material properties of condensates are determined by the intrinsic behaviour of their molecules, characterising such properties is integral to rationalising the molecular mechanisms that dictate their functions and roles in health and disease. Here, we apply and compare three distinct computational methods to measure the viscoelasticity of biomolecular condensates in molecular simulations. These methods are the shear stress relaxation modulus integration (SSRMI), the oscillatory shear (OS) technique, and the bead tracking (BT) method. We find that, although all of these methods provide consistent results for the viscosity of the condensates, the SSRMI and OS techniques outperform the BT method in terms of computational efficiency and statistical uncertainty. We, thus, apply the SSRMI and OS techniques for a set of 12 different protein/RNA systems using a sequence-dependent high-resolution coarse-grained model. Our results reveal a strong correlation between condensate viscosity and density, as well as with protein/RNA length and the number of stickersvs.spacers in the amino-acid protein sequence. Moreover, we couple the SSRMI and the OS technique to nonequilibrium molecular dynamics simulations that mimic the progressive liquid-to-gel transition of protein condensates due to the accumulation of inter-proteinβ-sheets. We compare the behaviour of three different protein condensates—i.e., those formed by either hnRNPA1, FUS, or TDP-43 proteins—whose liquid-to-gel transitions are associated with the onset of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal dementia. We find that both SSRMI and OS techniques successfully predict the transition from functional liquid-like behaviour to kinetically arrested states once the network of inter-proteinβ-sheets has percolated through the condensates. Overall, our work provides a comparison of different modelling rheological techniques to assess the viscosity of biomolecular condensates, a critical magnitude that provides information on the behaviour of biomolecules inside condensates.
Small-sporedAlternariaspp. (sectionAlternaria) are common pathogens on wild tomato species
Authors: Schmey Tamara , Small Corinn , Hoyoz Lina Muñoz , Ali Tahir , Gamboa Soledad , Mamami Betty , Sepulveda German C. , Thines Marco , Stam Remco
Published: December 2022

The wild relatives of modern tomato crops are native to South America. These plants occur in habitats as different as the Andes and the Atacama Desert and are to some degree all susceptible to fungal pathogens of the genusAlternaria. Alternariais a large genus. On tomato, several species cause early blight, leaf spot, and other diseases.

We collectedAlternaria-like infection lesions from the leaves of eight wild tomato species from Chile and Peru. Using molecular barcoding markers, we characterized the pathogens. The infection lesions were caused predominantly by small-spored species ofAlternariaof the sectionAlternaria, likeA. alternata, but also byStemphyliumspp.,Alternariaspp. from the sectionUlocladioides, and other related species. Morphological observations and an infection assay confirmed this. Comparative genetic diversity analyses show a larger diversity in this wild system than in studies of cultivatedSolanumspecies.

AsA. alternatahas been reported to be an increasing problem on cultivated tomato, investigating the evolutionary potential of this pathogen is not only interesting to scientists studying wild plant-pathosystems. It could also inform crop protection and breeding programs to be aware of potential epidemics caused by species still confined to South America.
Synthesis, crystal structure and thermal properties of tetrakis(3-methylpyridine-κN)bis(thiocyanato-κN)nickel(II)
Authors: Näther Christian , Jess Inke , Krebs Christoph
Published: December 2022

Reaction of Ni(NCS)2 with 3-methylpyridine in water leads to the formation of crystals of the title compound, [Ni(NCS)2(C6H7N)4]. All of them are of poor quality and non-merohedrally twinned but a refinement using data in HKLF-5 format leads to a reasonable structure model and reliability factors. The crystal structure of the title compound consists of discrete complexes, in which the nickel cations are sixfold coordinated by two terminal N-bonded thiocyanate anions and four 3-methylpyridine ligands within slightly distorted octahedra. One of the 3-methylpyridine ligands is disordered and was refined using a split model. The discrete complexes are arranged into layers. X-ray powder diffraction proves that pure samples have been obtained, and in the IR spectrum, the CN stretching vibration is observed at 2072 cm−1, in agreement with the presence of only terminally coordinated thiocyanate anions. Comparing the calculated powder pattern with those of the residues obtained by solvent removal from several solvates already reported in the literature proves that, in each case, this crystalline phase is formed. Assessing the crystal structures of the solvates in comparison with that of the ansolvate reveals some similarities.
“It is coming home to Rome” – social engagement and creativity in reactions to England national football team losing Euro 2020
Authors: Herd Katarzyna
Published: December 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this commentary paper is to analyze the burst of joy experienced by global football fans when England lost the final match during the Euro 2020 against Italy.

Design/methodology/approach

The author worked with netnography (Internet ethnography), gathering material from the internet.

Findings

The author would consider the emotional explosion as a creative expression that was possible to happen through football. Football is not only a part of popular culture, it also creates it. It acted as a platform allowing for emotional engagement and covering different issues connected to global politics.

Research limitations/implications

It is just a small study based on very limited material (Internet sources). However, it highlights every-day use of Internet and the possible amplification of certain sentiments if allowed.

Practical implications

Methodologically, it shows how Internet sources might be used when connected to football. It also provides an insight how Internet users can exchange opinions using sports (e.g. football) as a background.

Social implications

This text highlights that football can be used as a platform do express/discuss difficult issues and that average citizens can be heard just because the platform is football.

Originality/value

To the author’s knowledge there is no academic text with this issue in focus yet.
Budget participation and employee performance in real estate companies: the mediating role of budget goal commitment, trust and job satisfaction
Authors: Silva Pedro , Mota Jorge , Moreira Antonio Carrizo
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Recent years witnessed an exponential growth of the Portuguese real estate market. This growth has generated the need to implement effective management control tools to allow companies to improve their planning and monitoring of activities. Drawing on the agency and goal-setting theories, this paper explores the impact of companies' participative budgeting processes on employee performance in the real estate industry.

Design/methodology/approach

For this purpose, a questionnaire was developed and a sample of 116 employees that participate in the budgeting process of real estate organizations collected, with data analyzed using structural equation modelling.

Findings

The results show that participation in the budgeting process has an impact on employees' performance through budget goal commitment, trust and job satisfaction. However, no statistical support was found for the role of budgetary slack in this process.

Research limitations/implications

This study was conducted in a single industry and is based on self-reported measures of employees that participate in the budgeting process of their organizations.

Practical implications

The findings highlight the need for real estate organizations to involve their staff in the elaboration of budgets, contributing to a higher level of commitment to established goals, job satisfaction, trust and performance. Real estate organizations should provide adequate working conditions, foster their employees' autonomy and recognize their work.

Originality/value

The findings encourage real estate companies to extend the participation in the budget process to employees and, ultimately, to mitigate the probability of budget failure.
Does studying abroad matter? The case of entrepreneurial intention
Authors: Uskuri Halil Ali , Sesen Harun
Published: December 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to determine the impact of getting a higher education degree in a developed country on entrepreneurial intentions of individuals in developing countries by using the social cognitive career choice theory.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative methodology was utilised through the application of a questionnaire in a sample located in Northern Cyprus.

Findings

This research found that for the students who study abroad, the effects of entrepreneurial self-efficacy, outcome expectations and entrepreneurial interest on entrepreneurial career choices are different than for students who study in their homeland. This finding indicates that the location of the university differentiates the antecedents of entrepreneurial career choice of university students.

Research limitations/implications

This research has similar limitations to any cross-sectional research. Conversion of these intentions to behaviour should be explored further. Moreover, different models, such as the theory of planned behaviour, should be incorporated to determine if there are significant, meaningful differences between both groups.

Originality/value

The authors did not come across any other research combining the social cognitive career theory and the study abroad subject relating to entrepreneurial career choice. Thus, this research makes a unique contribution to the entrepreneurial career choice theory by showing the moderating role of studying abroad.
Students' career interests and entrepreneurship education in a developing country
Authors: Awaah Fred , Okebukola Peter , Shabani Juma , Arkorful Helen , Addo Dorcas Adomaa
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Students' career choices and programmes of study are perceived to influence student understanding of many courses. Yet, research attention is limited on entrepreneurship education that is a panacea for unemployment. Thus, this paper aims to assess the influence of students' career interests on students' comprehension of the entrepreneurship curriculum from a developing economy perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopts a mixed-method approach and explanatory sequential design is used to collect the data from 575 student studying entrepreneurship course in Ghana.

Findings

The results show that there is no statistically significant relationship between students' career interests and students' comprehension levels in concepts taught in the entrepreneurship curriculum but a statistically significant relationship between students' programme of study and students' comprehension levels in concepts taught in the entrepreneurship curriculum in Ghanaian universities.

Practical implications

The findings imply that the entrepreneurship course should be taught practically. This can be accomplished by creating a virtual enterprise modelled after a successful enterprise. This will help students understand the concepts being taught. Second, students who study different programmes should be taught using different methods. Lastly, students who study non-business-related programmes should be taught using methods that emphasise the basic ideas to aid students' understanding.

Originality/value

This study has made significant contribution by successful adopting the Piaget's cognitive constructivism to the learning of entrepreneurship from a developing country perspective and establish that no statistical relationship exist between students' career interests and students' comprehension levels in entrepreneurship education.
Assessing the factors of sustainable entrepreneurial attitude in context of educational institutions: AHP and DEMATEL approach
Authors: Dixit Jitendra Kumar , Agarwal Sucheta , Ramadani Veland , Agrawal Vivek
Published: December 2022

Purpose

One of the key causes of the attitude-behavior gap is inconsistency in established entrepreneurial attitude in entrepreneurship-driven educational programmes. The purpose of this research is to look at the factors that contribute to the development of sustainable entrepreneurial attitude in educational institutions.

Design/methodology/approach

The multi-criteria decision-making approach has been utilized for this purpose. During the study, eight factors are extracted through experts' opinions that altogether develop the sustainable entrepreneurial attitude. Extracted factors are also classified in cause-and-effect groups for better understanding. To foster sustainability through identified factors, a structured process is also suggested through the analysis.

Findings

The outcome of the study has extracted eight factors that altogether develop and upgrade general attitude into sustainable entrepreneurial attitude; systematic execution of identified factors also ensure the sustainability of evolved entrepreneurial attitude.

Originality/value

The outcome of the study can be used by educational institutions while designing curriculum and teaching-learning pedagogy to develop sustainable entrepreneurial attitude among future entrepreneurs; concluded factors can also be used for the screening purpose while admitting potential students for the program.
Socioeconomic determinants of antenatal healthcare inequalities in urban Pakistan
Authors: Rafique Zahrah
Published: December 2022

Purpose

One of the targets of sustainable development goal (SDG) 2030 is to reduce maternal mortality ratio to 70 per 100,000 live births and ensure pregnant women attend at least four antenatal visits. In urban Pakistan, it is expected that more women utilize antenatal care (ANC) because urban areas have more resources, higher education and wealthier people. Despite these facilities, the lack of utilization of antenatal care among pregnant women is abysmal—the latest estimate by Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey (PDHS) places the figure at 63%. Therefore, the paper attempts to identify the factors that affect the utilization of ANC in urban areas by using the PDHS 2017–2018.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used cross-tabs to determine the socioeconomic characteristics of women, and used the marginal effects from the probit model to evaluate the significance and relationship between socioeconomic determinants and antenatal visits. Finally, the study used Adam Wagstaff's decomposition analysis to identify the magnitude and main determinants of inequality.

Findings

The marginal effects show that socioeconomic variables such as education, province of residence, birth of a first child, age, education and consulting a doctor predicted the probability of 4+ antenatal visits. The decomposition analysis shows that women who consulted a doctor, belonged to non-poor class, were more educated and older contributed significantly to the inequality of antenatal care utilization in urban areas.

Practical implications

The study calls for increasing the number of doctors, promoting education, increasing awareness related to pregnancy complications and reducing wealth inequality. Moreover, the study also calls for increasing global intervention by implementing programs similar to ending preventable maternal mortality (EPPM) to increase antenatal coverage.

Originality/value

The distinctiveness of the study can be found in the fact that no study has been conducted that analyses the inequality related to the usage of ANC in urban areas of Pakistan.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/IJSE-06-2022-0390
An inchworm-inspired soft robot with combined functions of omni-directional steering and obstacle surmounting
Authors: Ding Jiang , Su Hanfei , Nong Weihang , Huang Changyang
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Soft rod-climbing robots have been known to have great potential in a wide variety of working conditions, including cable inspection and pipeline maintenance. However, one of the most notable issues preventing their popular adoption is their inability to effectively cross obstacles or transfer between rods. To overcome these difficulties, this paper aims to propose an inchworm-inspired soft robot with omni-directional steering.

Design/methodology/approach

Theoretical models are first established to analyze the telescopic deformation, bending, steering and climbing ability of the soft robot. The main modes of movement the soft robot is expected to encounter is then determined through controlled testing so to verify their effectiveness (those being rod climbing, steering and obstacle surmounting).

Findings

The soft robot demonstrated a capability to cross obstacles 1.3 times its own width and bend 120° omni-directionally, evidencing outstanding abilities in both omni-directional steering and obstacle surmounting. In addition, the soft robot also exhibited acceptable climbing performance in a variety of working conditions such as climbing along vertical rods, transferring between rods with differing diameters or friction surfaces and bearing a payload.

Originality/value

The soft robot proposed in this paper possesses abilities that are both exceptional and crucial for practical use, specifically with regard to its omni-directional steering and obstacle surmounting.
Safety of transportation buildings against vehicle bomb attacks with multi-criteria decision-making
Authors: İlerisoy Zeynep Yeşim , Gökgöz Berru İzel
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This study aims to focus on security measures for protecting transportation buildings from vehicle bomb attacks. It discusses ways to mitigate the effects of vehicle bomb terrorist attacks through architectural design decisions on transportation buildings.

Design/methodology/approach

The main research topic is the evaluation of architectural design decisions for vehicle bomb attacks at transportation buildings with the multi-criteria decision-making method. First, it was investigated which characteristics the impact of the explosion on the structures depended on. The measures for vehicle bomb attacks regarding the relationship between the urban scale and the building were determined by four main criteria and 17 sub-criteria. Due to the complex and ambiguous nature of architectural design, these criteria were evaluated by the analytic hierarchy processes. After the criteria weights were obtained, the alternative sample buildings, including the train stations and airports, were evaluated with the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to an Ideal Solution method.

Findings

The site security design was determined as the most effective component for vehicle bomb attacks among the main criteria. The most important sub-criterion was the perimeter firewall. In the evaluations of the alternatives, it was determined that airports performed better against vehicle bomb attacks in terms of architectural design requirements than train stations.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the literature for the countries where explosions occur intensively by determining the importance of architectural design parameters for the transportation buildings and surroundings against vehicle bomb attacks. This study provides an evaluation model based on transportation buildings considering the relationship between the urban scale and the building itself.
Impact of service quality on user satisfaction in public university libraries of Bangladesh using structural equation modeling
Authors: Alam Md. Jahangir , Mezbah-ul-Islam Muhammad
Published: December 2022

Purpose

The study aims to appraise the impact of service quality dimensions on user satisfaction in Bangladeshi public university libraries using structural equation modeling (SEM).

Design/methodology/approach

This study developed an SEM method based on SERVQUAL, LibQUAL+ and SERVPERF instruments, including 30 items under five service quality dimensions and eight satisfaction items with the 7-point Likert scale to appraise the impact of library service quality dimensions on user satisfaction. For this purpose, a survey was carried out among 437 students, 52 MPhil/PhD researchers and 32 teachers of the nine selected public university libraries of Bangladesh through a structured questionnaire. The SEM approach included path analysis, confirmatory and exploratory factor analysis, as well as construct reliability and validity where user satisfaction was used as the dependent variable, and five service quality dimensions were applied as independent variables.

Findings

This model was identified as significant and clarified 58% of the total variation in user satisfaction. The study findings indicated that resources of the libraries, staff competence, demeanor approach and tangible facilities of the public university libraries have a significant impact on user satisfaction.

Originality/value

An initiative has been taken for the first time to ascertain the impact of library service quality on user satisfaction applying the SEM approach in Bangladesh. Moreover, it creates an avenue to prompt future studies on the structural relationship between user satisfaction and service quality dimensions in academic libraries globally.
Cold winters drive consistent and spatially synchronous 8‐year population cycles of cabbage stem flea beetle
Authors: Emery Sara E. , Klapwijk Maartje , Sigvald Roland , Bommarco Riccardo , Lundin Ola
Published: December 2022

Population cycles have been observed in mammals as well as insects, but consistent population cycling has rarely been documented in agroecosystems and never for a beetle.

We analysed the long‐term population patterns of the cabbage stem flea beetle Psylliodes chrysocephala in winter oilseed rape over 50 years.

Psylliodes chrysocephala larval density from 3045 winter oilseed rape fields in southern Sweden showed strong 8‐year population cycles in regional mean density. Fluctuations in larval density were synchronous over time across five subregional populations. Subregional mean environmental variables explained 90.6% of the synchrony in P. chrysocephala populations at the 7–11 year time‐scale. The number of days below −10°C showed strong anti‐phase coherence with larval densities in the 7–11 year time‐scale, such that more cold days resulted in low larval densities. High levels of the North Atlantic Oscillation weather system are coherent and anti‐phase with cold weather in Scania, Sweden.

At the field‐scale, later crop planting date and more cold winter days were associated with decreased overwintering larval density. Warmer autumn temperatures, resulting in greater larval accumulated degree days early in the season, increased overwintering larval density.

Despite variation in environmental conditions and crop management, 8‐year cycles persisted for cabbage stem flea beetle throughout the 50 years of data collection. Moran effects, influenced by the North Atlantic Oscillation weather patterns, are the primary drivers of this cycle and synchronicity. Insect pest data collected in commercial agriculture fields is an abundant source of long‐term data. We show that an agricultural pest can have the same periodic population cycles observed in perennial and unmanaged ecosystems. This unexpected finding has implications for sustainable pest management in agriculture and shows the value of long‐term pest monitoring projects as an additional source of time‐series data to untangle the drivers of population cycles.
The acetoin assimilation pathway of Pseudomonas putida KT2440 is regulated by overlapping global regulatory elements that respond to nutritional cues
Authors: Moreno Renata , Yuste Luis , Rojo Fernando
Published: December 2022

Many microorganisms produce and excrete acetoin (3‐hydroxy‐2‐butanone) when growing in environments that contain glucose or other fermentable carbon sources. This excreted compound can then be assimilated by other bacterial species such as pseudomonads. This work shows that acetoin is not a preferred carbon source of Pseudomonas putida, and that the induction of genes required for its assimilation is down‐modulated by different, independent, global regulatory systems when succinate, glucose or components of the LB medium are also present. The expression of the acetoin degradation genes was found to rely on the RpoN alternative sigma factor and to be modulated by the Crc/Hfq, Cyo and PTSNtr regulatory elements, with the impact of the latter three varying according to the carbon source present in addition to acetoin. Pyruvate, a poor carbon source for P. putida, did not repress acetoin assimilation. Indeed, the presence of acetoin significantly improved growth on pyruvate, revealing these compounds to have a synergistic effect. This would provide a clear competitive advantage to P. putida when growing in environments in which all the preferred carbon sources have been depleted and pyruvate and acetoin remain as leftovers from the fermentation of sugars by other microorganisms.
How Does Guanxi Shape Entrepreneurial Behaviour? The Case of Family Businesses in China
Authors: Su Shihang , Costanzo Laura A. , Lange Knut , Ghobadian Abby , Hitt Michael A. , Ireland R. Duane
Published: December 2022

This paper explores how Guanxi shapes different levels of entrepreneurial behaviour of family businesses in China. Extant research draws on network theory, suggesting that firms focusing on less intimate social relationships are more entrepreneurial than those focusing on intimate social networks. However, this notion of networks neglects Guanxi’s indigenous cultural roots that promote intimacy in social relationships, thus limiting our understanding of why some firms in China demonstrate a higher level of entrepreneurial behaviour than others. Through an in‐depth multi‐case study analysis of eight family firms in China, we find that Guanxi is a multi‐dimensional concept that can only be effective through intimate relationship building. This study contributes to the social network literature on entrepreneurial behaviour by incorporating the gift exchange theoretical perspective and demonstrating that political Guanxi in China can only facilitate entrepreneurial behaviour when it is built around a significant level of intimacy. We also contribute to family business research by demonstrating that family ties are multi‐dimensional. Different cultural values may inform different dimensions of family ties via differences in family business governance structures, which can give rise to different levels of entrepreneurial outcomes. This study offers theoretical and practical implications alongside avenues for future research.
Assessment of prognostic and reproductive outcomes of omentectomy for patients with clinically apparent early‐stage (I, II) malignant ovarian germ cell tumours: A multicentre retrospective study
Authors: Liu Penglin , Li Zhuang , Cheng Xiaodong , Gao Qinglei , Che Yanci , Zhang Zhaoyang , Chu Ran , Chen Zhongshao , Zhang Yue , Wang Qiannan , Dou Zhiyuan , Wei Yuan , Cui Zhumei , Wang Jianliu , Xie Xing , Ma Ding , Yang Xingsheng , Kong Beihua , Song Kun
Published: December 2022

Objective

This study assessed the effect of omentectomy on the prognosis and fertility in patients with clinically early‐stage (I, II) malignant ovarian germ cell tumours (MOGCT).

Design

A retrospective multicentre study.

Setting

Four university teaching hospitals in China.

Population

A total of 268 patients with clinically apparent early‐stage (I, II) MOGCT.

Methods

Data were obtained from the medical records. Additionally, the propensity score matching (PSM) algorithm was adopted.

Main outcome measures

Prognostic outcomes were disease‐free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS). Fertility outcomes were pregnancy and live birth rates.

Results

A total of 187 (69.8%) patients underwent omentectomy. Kaplan–Meier analysis showed no significant differences in DFS and OS between the omentectomy and non‐omentectomy groups before and after PSM (p > 0.05). Additionally, subgroup analysis stratified by age (<18 and ≥18 years) showed similar results. International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage was the only risk factor associated with DFS (hazard ratio [HR] 14.71, 95% confidence interval [CI] 4.47–48.38, p < 0.001) and OS (HR 37.36, 95% CI 3.87–361.16, p = 0.002). Pregnancy and live birth rates in the total population were 80.3% and 66.7%, respectively. There were no significant differences between the two groups before and after PSM.

Conclusions

Omentectomy did not improve survival or affect fertility in patients with clinically apparent early‐stage (I, II) MOGCT, regardless of the age. The clinical FIGO stage was an independent risk factor for recurrence and death.
Effect of paternal age on assisted reproductive outcomes in ICSI donor cycles
Authors: Coban Onder , Serdarogullari Munevver , Pervaiz Ruqiya , Soykok Afet , Yarkiner Zalihe , Bankeroglu Hasan
Published: December 2022

Background

Despite growing evidence suggesting age‐related molecular changes in gametes, the impact of paternal age on clinical outcomes during infertility treatments has not been adequately assessed.

Objectives

This study aims to assess the correlation of paternal age to clinical pregnancy and live birth rates in egg donation cycles undergoing intracytoplasmic sperm injection.

Materials and methods

This retrospective cohort study includes 4930 fresh oocyte donation cycles from 3995 couples between April 2005 and February 2020 in a private IVF hospital. Clinical pregnancy and live birth rates were the primary outcome measures. The results were also assessed according to the paternal age groups, donor characteristics, semen parameters, fertilization rate, and quality of the transferred embryos.

Results

The age and body mass index of the donors, oocyte maturation, fertilization rates, and the mean number of transferred embryo quality were comparable on day‐3 but not on day‐5 embryo transfers between paternal age groups (p > 0.05). Paternal age was found to be negatively correlated to the number of oocytes utilized, normal semen parameters, fertilization, clinical pregnancy, and live birth rates (p < 0.05). In day‐5 embryo transfer cycles, only the rate of cycles with normal spermatozoa, number of allocated oocytes, and pregnancy were found to be statistically significant.

Discussion and Conclusion

Paternal age may influence reproductive outcomes and should be considered during infertility evaluations in intracytoplasmic sperm injection donor cycles. Further research is needed to confirm these findings.
Interchangeability of generic drugs for subpopulations: Bioequivalence simulation from a nonparametric PK model of gabapentin generic drugs
Authors: Glerum Pieter J. , Yamada Walter M. , Neely Michael N. , Burger David M. , Maliepaard Marc , Neef Cees
Published: December 2022

Patients are often switched between generic formulations of the same drug, but in some cases generic interchangeability is questioned. For generic drugs to be approved, bioequivalence with the innovator drug should be demonstrated, but evidence of bioequivalence is not required in the intended patient population or relative to other approved generics.

Aim

We aim to identify pathophysiological pharmacokinetic subpopulations for whom there is a difference in comparative bioavailability compared to a healthy population.

Methods

We used simulated exposures from a nonparametric model of multiple generics and the originator gabapentin. Exposure was simulated for virtual populations with pharmacokinetic characteristics beyond those of healthy subjects with regard to rate of absorption, volume of distribution and reduced renal function. Virtual parallel design bioequivalence studies were performed using a random sample of 24 simulated subjects, with standard acceptance criteria.

Results

Results indicated increased pharmacokinetic variability for patient populations with a lower rate of absorption or a reduced renal function, but no change in the average comparable bioavailability ratio. This increased variability results in a reduced likelihood of demonstrating bioequivalence. Observations were similar for comparisons between all different formulations, as well as between subjects who received the identical formulation in a repeated fashion. No relevant effect was observed for simulations with increased volume of distribution.

Conclusion

Our simulations indicate that the reduced likelihood of demonstrating bioequivalence for subjects with altered pharmacokinetics is not influenced by a formulation switch, nor does the average comparable bioavailability ratio change, therefore these results support generic interchangeability and current approval requirements for generics.
Ruxolitinib and methylprednisolone for treatment of patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma
Authors: Berenson James R. , Martinez Daisy , Safaie Tahmineh , Boccia Ralph , Yang Honghao , Moezi Mehdi , Lim Stephen , Schwartz Gary , Eshaghian Shahrooz , Swift Regina , Eades Benjamin M. , Bujarski Sean , Regidor Bernard , Kim Clara , Kim Susanna , Vescio Robert
Published: December 2022

Although Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors have demonstrated efficacy for treating autoimmune disorders and myeloproliferative neoplasms, their efficacy in treating other types of cancer has not been clearly demonstrated. We evaluated oral ruxolitinib (15 mg twice daily) with oral methylprednisolone (40 mg every other day) for multiple myeloma (MM) patients with progressive disease who had received a proteasome inhibitor, lenalidomide, glucocorticosteroids and three or more prior regimens. All of the planned 29 patients had been enrolled with follow‐up until 28 April 2022. Median lines of prior therapy were 6 (range 3–12). Cytogenetics and fluorescent in situ hybridization were evaluable in 28 patients; 9 (32%) and 17 (70%) patients showed high‐risk cytogenetics and/or 1q+, respectively. The overall response rate was 31%. The median duration of response was 13.1 (range 2.8–22.0) months. Median progression‐free survival rate was 3.4 (range 0.5–24.6) months, Overall, the treatment was well tolerated. The combination of ruxolitinib and methylprednisolone demonstrated significant clinical activity among previously heavily‐treated MM patients, and responses were achieved among patients who had high‐risk cytogenetics. This is the first clinical study to show activity of JAK inhibitors in combination with steroids for MM patients and expands the potential use of these drugs to those with cancers other than myeloproliferative neoplasms.
Central Mediterranean tephrochronology between 313 and 366 ka: New insights from the Fucino palaeolake sediment succession
Authors: Leicher Niklas , Giaccio Biagio , Pereira Alison , Nomade Sebastien , Monaco Lorenzo , Mannella Giorgio , Galli Paolo , Peronance Edoardo , Palladino Danilo Mauro , Sottili Gianluca , Zanchetta Giovanni , Wagner Bernd
Published: December 2022

Thirty‐two tephra layers were identified in the time‐interval 313–366 ka (Marine Isotope Stages 9–10) of the Quaternary lacustrine succession of the Fucino Basin, central Italy. Twenty‐seven of these tephra layers yielded suitable geochemical material to explore their volcanic origins. Investigations also included the acquisition of geochemical data of some relevant, chronologically compatible proximal units from Italian volcanoes. The record contains tephra from some well‐known eruptions and eruptive sequences of Roman and Roccamonfina volcanoes, such as the Magliano Romano Plinian Fall, the Orvieto–Bagnoregio Ignimbrite, the Lower White Trachytic Tuff and the Brown Leucitic Tuff. In addition, the record documents eruptions currently undescribed in proximal (i.e. near‐vent) sections, suggesting a more complex history of the major eruptions of the Colli Albani, Sabatini, Vulsini and Roccamonfina volcanoes between 313 and 366 ka. Six of the investigated tephra layers were directly dated by single‐crystal‐fusion 40Ar/39Ar dating, providing the basis for a Bayesian age–depth model and a reassessment of the chronologies for both already known and dated eruptive units and for so far undated eruptions. The results provide a significant contribution for improving knowledge on the peri‐Tyrrhenian explosive activity as well as for extending the Mediterranean tephrostratigraphical framework, which was previously based on limited proximal and distal archives for that time interval.
ASmartModel of Imaginal Perspective Taking
Authors: Schultheis Holger
Published: December 2022

The ability to judge spatial relations from perspectives that differ from one's current body orientation and location is important for many everyday activities. Despite considerable research on imaginal perspective taking, however, detailed computational accounts of the processes involved in this ability are missing. In this contribution, I introduceSmart(SpatialMemoryAccess byReference Frame SelecTion) as a computational cognitive model of imaginal perspective taking processes. In assuming that imaginal perspective taking is governed by reference frame selection for memory access and subsequent motor activation,Smartis able to explain and simulate key findings on human imaginal perspective taking. In addition to providing novel insight into the mechanisms underlying imaginal perspective taking,Smartalso has several implications for our view on spatial memory, more generally. In particular,Smartsupports the idea that enduring spatial representations are essentially orientation‐free and that spatial representations are best viewed asflexiblecombinations of representation structures and reference frames.
People with high schizotypy experience more illusions in the Pattern Glare Test: Consistent with the hyperexcitability hypothesis
Authors: Torrens Wendy A. , Pablo Jenna N. , Shires Jorja , Haigh Sarah M. , Berryhill Marian E.
Published: December 2022

Individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSD) exhibit a constellation of sensory and perceptual impairments, including hyporeactivity to external input. However, individuals with SSD also report subjective experiences of sensory flooding, suggesting sensory hyperexcitability. To identify the extent to which behavioural indices of hyperexcitability are related to non‐psychotic symptoms of schizophrenia, we tested a non‐clinical population measured for schizophrenia‐like traits (schizotypy), and a behavioural measure of sensory hyperexcitability, specifically the number of illusions seen in the Pattern Glare Test. Two samples totaling 913 individuals completed an online version of the Schizotypal Personality Questionnaire – Brief Revised (SPQ‐BR) and the Pattern Glare Test. Individuals with higher schizotypy traits reported more illusions in the Pattern Glare Test. Additionally, one of the three SPQ‐BR factors, the disorganized factor, significantly predicted the number of illusions reported. These data illustrate the potential for research in non‐clinical samples to inform clinically relevant research.
Meningeal mast cell‐mediated mechanisms of cholinergic system modulation in neurogenic inflammation underlying the pathophysiology of migraine
Authors: Kilinc Erkan , Torun Ibrahim Ethem , Baranoglu Kilinc Yasemin
Published: December 2022

Growing evidence indicates that the parasympathetic system is implicated in migraine headache. However, the cholinergic mechanisms in the pathophysiology of migraine remain unclear. We investigated the effects and mechanisms of cholinergic modulation and a mast cell stabilizer cromolyn in the nitroglycerin‐induced in vivo migraine model and in vitro hemiskull preparations in rats. Effects of cholinergic agents (acetylcholinesterase inhibitor neostigmine, or acetylcholine, and muscarinic antagonist atropine) and mast cell stabilizer cromolyn or their combinations were tested in the in vivo and in vitro experiments. The mechanical hyperalgesia was assessed by von Frey hairs. Calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP) and C‐fos levels were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Degranulation and count of meningeal mast cells were determined by toluidine‐blue staining. Neostigmine augmented the nitroglycerin‐induced mechanical hyperalgesia, trigeminal ganglion CGRP levels, brainstem CGRP, and C‐fos levels, as well as degranulation of mast cells in vivo. Atropine inhibited neostigmine‐induced additional increases in CGRP levels in trigeminal ganglion and brainstem while it failed to do this in the mechanical hyperalgesia, C‐fos levels, and the mast cell degranulation. However, all systemic effects of neostigmine were abolished by cromolyn. The cholinergic agents or cromolyn did not alter basal release of CGRP, in vitro, but cromolyn alleviated the CGRP‐inducing effect of capsaicin while atropine failed to do it. These results ensure for a first time direct evidence that endogenous acetylcholine contributes to migraine pathology mainly by activating meningeal mast cells while muscarinic receptors are involved in CGRP release from trigeminal ganglion and brainstem, without excluding the possible role of nicotinic cholinergic receptors.
The influence of the commensal skin bacterium Staphylococcus epidermidis on the epidermal barrier and inflammation: Implications for atopic dermatitis
Authors: Ochlich Désirée , Rademacher Franziska , Drerup Katharina Antonia , Gläser Regine , Harder Jürgen
Published: December 2022

The skin microbiota is a crucial component in maintaining cutaneous barrier function. Staphylococcus epidermidis is considered as a beneficial commensal member of the cutaneous microbiota promoting skin health. However, S. epidermidis is also frequently detectable in the skin of patients with the inflammatory skin disease atopic dermatitis (AD) and some studies reported a significantly higher presence of S. epidermidis in severe AD as compared to mild AD. Therefore, this study aimed to analyse the impact of S. epidermidis on the expression of cutaneous inflammatory mediators and skin barrier molecules. Various S. epidermidis skin‐derived isolates activated the proinflammatory transcription factor NF‐kappaB and induced expression of AD‐associated proinflammatory cytokines in human primary keratinocytes and 3D skin equivalents. Skin barrier molecules such as filaggrin were downregulated by S. epidermidis. In general, AD‐derived S. epidermidis strains elicited a higher response than strains derived from the skin of healthy individuals. Taken together, our results provide further evidence that the abundance of S. epidermidis in AD may trigger the inflammatory scenario associated with this disease.
Unwanted cohabitation agreements
Authors: Ryznar Margaret
Published: December 2022

Given the predominant role in American law of cohabitation agreements in protecting cohabitants, this Article presents an informal study that measured attitudes toward such agreements. The results confirm the literature findings that people generally are not inclined to want cohabitation agreements upon cohabitation. Further studies might explore the reasons for the unpopularity of cohabitation agreements and the ways to improve the protection of cohabitants, and this Article offers potential considerations.
Chronologically clustered osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures: Analysis of a case series
Authors: Lu Kang , Lui Chun‐Chung , Wu Yu‐Ying , Chu Shao‐Ang , Huang Ruyi , Chiu Chong‐Chi , Hung Chao‐Ming
Published: December 2022

Aim

To provide quality care to older adults, healthcare professionals should be aware that osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCFs) might occur sequentially in the same patient, involving different vertebral bodies, each separated by short intervals. This situation is called chronologically clustered OVCFs (CCOVCF).

Methods

A total of 40 patients with CCOVCFs (index cohort) were retrospectively analyzed, and compared with 40 patients having only one OVCF (comparison cohort). All fractures were treated with percutaneous balloon kyphoplasty.

Results

In the index cohort, the number of patients having the second, third, fourth and fifth OVCF events within 3 months were 40, 15, five and two, respectively. Recurring pain or seemingly non‐stop pain were the major reasons why new OCVFs were found. The average interval between pain relief provided by percutaneous balloon kyphoplasty and radiographic diagnosis of new OVCFs was significantly longer than that between pain relief and a new episode of disabling pain (26.7 ± 16.8 vs 16.4 ± 15.8 days, P < 0.0001), reflecting how shortly new OCVFs occurred after successful surgery, and how often they were neglected. The mean T‐score of the index cohort was significantly lower than that of the comparison cohort (−3.66 ± 0.79 vs −3.17 ± 0.80, P = 0.01).

Conclusions

CCOVCFs make a patient seem constantly in pain, despite repeated admissions and operations. Recurrent symptoms after an effective procedure should be taken as a warning that a new OCVF might have occurred, even if only a few days apart. Advanced osteoporosis is a significant risk factor for CCOVCFs. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2023; 23: 44–49.
A valued voice: A qualitative analysis of parental decision‐making preferences in emergent paediatric surgery
Authors: Carlisle Erica M. , Shinkunas Laura A. , Ruba Emily , Klipowicz Caleb J. , Lieberman Maxwell T. , Hoffman Richard M. , Reisinger Heather S.
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Shared decision‐making, with an emphasis on patient autonomy, is often advised in healthcare decision‐making. However, this may be difficult to implement in emergent settings. We have previously demonstrated that when considering emergent operations for their children, parents prefer surgeon guidance as opposed to shared decision‐making. Here, we interviewed parents of paediatric patients who had undergone emergent operations to better understand parental decision‐making preferences.

Methods

Parents of paediatric patients who underwent surgery over the past 5 years at a University‐based, tertiary children's hospital for cancer, an emergent operation while in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) were invited to complete a 60‐min semi‐structured interview. Interviews were digitally recorded and transcribed verbatim. Thematic content analysis was performed via deductive and inductive analysis. An iterative approach to thematic sampling/data analysis was used.

Results

Thematic saturation was achieved after 12 interviews (4 cancer, 5 NICU and 3 ECMO). Five common themes were identified: (1) recommendations from surgeons are valuable; (2) ‘lifesaving mode’: parents felt there were no decisions to be made; (3) effective ways of obtaining information about treatment; (4) shared decision‐making as a ‘dialogue’ or ‘discussion’ and (5) parents as a ‘valued voice’ to advocate for their children.

Conclusions

When engaging in decision‐making regarding emergent surgical procedures for their children, parents value a surgeon's recommendation. Parents felt that discussion or dialogue with surgeons defined shared decision‐making, and they believed that the opportunity to ask questions gave them a ‘valued voice’, even when they felt there were no decisions to be made.

Patient or Public Contribution

For this study, we interviewed parents of paediatric patients who had undergone emergent operations to better understand parental decision‐making preferences. Parents thus provided all the data for the study.