bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diagnostic value of anti-mitochondrial antibody in patients with primary biliary cholangitis: A systemic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Xu Qingling , Zhu Weijia , Yin Yufeng
Published: November 2023

Background:

Anti-mitochondrial antibodies (AMA) and the M2 subtype are considered serological hallmarks in the diagnosis of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC). However, these autoantibodies may be undetectable in some patients. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of serum AMA and M2 for PBC.

Methods:

We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library for relevant studies. Pooled sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio (LR+), negative likelihood ratio (LR−), and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) were calculated using a random-effects model. We also constructed hierarchical summary receiver operating characteristic curves and calculated the area under the curve values.

Results:

Our meta-analysis included 28 studies, of which 24 examined the diagnostic accuracy of AMA for PBC. Pooled sensitivity and specificity of AMA were 84% (95% confidence intervals [CI] 77–90%) and 98% (96–99%), respectively. Pooled LR+, LR−, and DOR were 42.2 (22.1–80.5), 0.16 (0.11–0.24), and 262 (114–601), respectively. Sixteen studies explored the diagnostic value of the M2 subtype, demonstrating pooled sensitivity and specificity of 89% (81–94%) and 96% (93–98%), respectively. Pooled LR+, LR−, and DOR were 20.3 (8.0–51.1), 0.12 (0.05–0.26), and 169 (41–706), respectively. The hierarchical summary receiver operating characteristic curves for both of serum AMA and M2 subtype lie closer to the upper left corner of the plot with area under the curve values of 0.98 (95% CI = 0.96–0.99) and 0.98 (95% CI = 0.96–0.99) respectively.

Conclusion:

This meta-analysis provides evidence affirming the utility of AMA and M2 as sensitive and specific serological hallmarks that can facilitate early screening and diagnosis of PBC.
Tibial nerve compression due to osteochondroma of the fibular head: A case report
Authors: Lee Young-Keun , Ho Ji Woong
Published: November 2023

Rationale:

Osteochondroma is one of the most common primary benign bone tumors. In most cases, this disease is asymptomatic. However, it may become symptomatic owing to nerve and vascular compression when it affects the knee joint. Isolated tibial nerve palsy caused by proximal fibular osteochondroma is rare.

Patients concerns:

A 60-year-old male, was treated for degenerative arthritis of the right knee, referred to the right great toe flexion limitation that occurred 3 weeks prior.

Diagnoses:

Magnetic resonance imaging revealed compression of the tibial nerve and surrounding muscles due to an osseous lesion in the fibular head. A nerve conduction test confirmed tibial neuropathy in the right lower leg.

Interventions:

Exploratory surgery was performed to decompress the tibial nerve and remove the bony lesion histopathologically diagnosed as an osteochondroma.

Outcomes:

Fifty-five months postoperatively, toe flexion recovered to normal. No recurrence of osteochondroma was observed.

Lessons:

As in our case, if a bony lesion is diagnosed on radiographs with neurological symptoms, early decompression surgery is necessary. Moreover, since it can be misdiagnosed as a simple bony spur, magnetic resonance imaging and tissue biopsy are also indicated.
Older Taiwanese Volunteers as Standardized Patients
Authors: Ho Yun-Chi , Kao Sheng-Po , Chen Che-Han , Chu Shao-Yin
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Most standardized patients (SPs) in Taiwan are middle-aged or older volunteers with a high retention rate and selflessly devote themselves to the service. This study explored the psychological process behind the continued altruistic behaviors of SPs to understand the formation of service motivation, professional identity, and internal transformation.

Methods

Sixteen volunteers, aged 50 to 70 years, who served as SPs for 3 to 11 years in a religious hospital were enrolled in this study. Individual semistructured interviews were conducted. Each person was interviewed for approximately 120 minutes. We used a thematic analysis to analyze the interview transcripts.

Results

We identified 3 major themes and 8 subthemes. The first theme, SPs' service motivation, included the following 3 subthemes: past medical experiences, acquisition of medical knowledge, and emotional connections. The second theme, SPs' identity formation, included the following 3 subthemes: role recognition, work ethic, and a sense of religious mission. The third theme, SPs' physical and psychological support, included 2 subthemes: internal transformation and personal well-being.

Conclusions

The interview results showed doctor-patient or life experiences served as the impetus prompting SPs to engage in such altruistic behavior. In addition, identity formation endowed older SPs with a life purpose and a sense of fulfillment and self-actualization through fostering and training medical students. In addition, a clear recognition of the role of an SP and self-worth helped volunteers mitigate any physical and mental problems caused by negative life experiences. Standardized patients continued to complete their tasks with a positive attitude.
Ligilactobacillus cholophilus sp. nov., isolated from pickled potherb mustard (Brassica juncea Coss.)
Authors: Ren Quanlu , Wang Danqi , Han Jin , Wang Jing , Liu Zhenmin , Wu Zhengjun
Published: November 2023

Strain BD7642T was isolated from Chinese pickled potherb mustard (Brassica juncea Coss.) purchased from a local market in Shanghai, PR China. A polyphasic approach, including 16S rRNA gene sequence, housekeeping gene, average nucleotide identity (ANI), digital DNA–DNA hybridization (dDDH), G+C content and phenotypic analyses, was employed to characterize strain BD7642T. Cells of the bacterium were short round rods, Gram-stain-positive, non-spore-forming and catalase-negative. The strain grew at 30–45 °C and pH 4.0–8.0. Optimum growth occurred at 35–40 °C and pH 6.0–7.0. The strain exhibited growth with salt (NaCl) concentrations of up to 5 % (w/v). The G+C content of the strain’s genomic DNA was 31.37 mol%. The major fatty acids were C16 : 0, C18 : 1 c9 and summed feature 10 (C18 : 1 c11/t9/t6). 16S rRNA gene sequencing revealed that strain BD7642T represents a member of the genus

Ligilactobacillus

and it had high sequence similarity to

Ligilactobacillus aviarius

NBRC 102162T (96.73 %),

Ligilactobacillus araffinosus

LGM 23560 (96.66 %) and

Ligilactobacillus salivarius

JCM 1231T (95.82 %). The dDDH values between strain BD7642T and its phylogenetically related species within the genus

Ligilactobacillus

ranged from 12.6 to 25.4 %. The ANI values between strain BD7642T and its closely related taxa were far lower than the threshold (95 %–96 %) used for species differentiation. Results of phylogenetic, physiological and phenotypic characterization confirmed that strain BD7642T represents a novel species within the genus

Ligilactobacillus

, for which the name Ligilactobacillus cholophilus sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is BD7642T (=CCTCC AB 2022398T=JCM 36074T).
SARS-CoV-2 and the DNA damage response
Authors: Grand Roger J.
Published: November 2023

The recent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic was caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). COVID-19 is characterized by respiratory distress, multiorgan dysfunction and, in some cases, death. The virus is also responsible for post-COVID-19 condition (commonly referred to as ‘long COVID’). SARS-CoV-2 is a single-stranded, positive-sense RNA virus with a genome of approximately 30 kb, which encodes 26 proteins. It has been reported to affect multiple pathways in infected cells, resulting, in many cases, in the induction of a ‘cytokine storm’ and cellular senescence. Perhaps because it is an RNA virus, replicating largely in the cytoplasm, the effect of SARS-Cov-2 on genome stability and DNA damage responses (DDRs) has received relatively little attention. However, it is now becoming clear that the virus causes damage to cellular DNA, as shown by the presence of micronuclei, DNA repair foci and increased comet tails in infected cells. This review considers recent evidence indicating how SARS-CoV-2 causes genome instability, deregulates the cell cycle and targets specific components of DDR pathways. The significance of the virus’s ability to cause cellular senescence is also considered, as are the implications of genome instability for patients suffering from long COVID.
Optogenetic Silencing of Medial Septal GABAergic Neurons Disrupts Grid Cell Spatial and Temporal Coding in the Medial Entorhinal Cortex
Authors: Robinson Jennifer C. , Ying Johnson , Hasselmo Michael E. , Brandon Mark P.
Published: November 2023

The hippocampus and medial entorhinal cortex (MEC) form a cognitive map that facilitates spatial navigation. As part of this map, MEC grid cells fire in a repeating hexagonal pattern across an environment. This grid pattern relies on inputs from the medial septum (MS). The MS, and specifically its GABAergic neurons, are essential for theta rhythm oscillations in the entorhinal-hippocampal network, however, it is unknown if this subpopulation is also essential for grid cell function. To investigate this, we used optogenetics to inhibit MS-GABAergic neurons during grid cell recordings. We found that MS-GABAergic inhibition disrupted grid cell spatial periodicity both during optogenetic inhibition and during short 30-second recovery periods. Longer recovery periods of 60 seconds between the optogenetic inhibition periods allowed for the recovery of grid cell spatial firing. Grid cell temporal coding was also disrupted, as observed by a significant attenuation of theta phase precession. Together, these results demonstrate that MS-GABAergic neurons are critical for grid cell spatial and temporal coding in the MEC.
Asymmetrical Bi-antennary Glycans Prepared by a Stop-and-Go Strategy Reveal Receptor Binding Evolution of Human Influenza A Viruses
Authors: Ma Shengzhou , Liu Lin , Eggink Dirk , Herfst Sander , Fouchier Ron A.M. , de Vries Robert P. , Boons Geert-Jan
Published: November 2023

Glycan binding properties of respiratory viruses have been difficult to probe due to a lack of biological relevant glycans for binding studies. Here, a stop-and-go chemoenzymatic methodology is presented that gave access to a panel of 32 asymmetrical bi-antennaryN-glycans having various numbers ofN-acetyl lactosamine (LacNAc) repeating units capped by α2,3- or α2,6-sialosides resembling structures found in airway tissues. It exploits that the branching enzymes MGAT1 and MGAT2 can utilize unnatural UDP-2-deoxy-2-trifluoro-N-acetamido-glucose (UDP-GlcNTFA) as donor. The TFA moiety of the resulting glycans can be hydrolyzed to give GlcNH2at one of the antennae that temporarily blocks extension by glycosyl transferases. TheN-glycans were printed as a microarray that was probed for receptor binding specificities of evolutionary distinct human A(H3N2) and A(H1N1)pdm09 viruses. It was found that not only the sialoside type but also the length of the LacNAc chain and presentation at the α1,3-antenna ofN-glycans is critical for binding. Early A(H3N2) viruses bound to 2,6-sialosides at a single LacNAc moiety at the α1,3-antenna whereas later viruses required the sialoside to be presented at a tri-LacNAc moiety. Surprisingly, most of the A(H3N2) viruses that appeared after 2021 regained binding capacity to sialosides presented at a di-LacNAc moiety. As a result, these viruses agglutinate erythrocytes again, commonly employed for antigenic characterization of influenza viruses. Human A(H1N1)pdm09 viruses have similar receptor binding properties as recent A(H3N2) viruses. The data indicates that an asymmetricN-glycan having 2,6-sialoside at a di-LacNAc moiety is a commonly employed receptor by human influenza A viruses.
Disease-specific variant interpretation highlighted the genetic findings in 2325 Japanese patients with retinitis pigmentosa and allied diseases
Authors: Goto Kensuke , Koyanagi Yoshito , Akiyama Masato , Murakami Yusuke , Fukushima Masatoshi , Fujiwara Kohta , Iijima Hanae , Yamaguchi Mitsuyo , Endo Mikiko , Hashimoto Kazuki , Ishizu Masataka , Hirakata Toshiaki , Mizobuchi Kei , Takayama Masakazu , Ota Junya , Sajiki Ai Fujita , Kominami Taro , Ushida Hiroaki , Fujita Kosuke , Kaneko Hiroki , Ueno Shinji , Hayashi Takaaki , Terao Chikashi , Hotta Yoshihiro , Murakami Akira , Kuniyoshi Kazuki , Kusaka Shunji , Wada Yuko , Abe Toshiaki , Nakazawa Toru , Ikeda Yasuhiro , Momozawa Yukihide , Sonoda Koh-Hei , Nishiguchi Koji M.
Published: November 2023

Background

As gene-specific therapy for inherited retinal dystrophy (IRD) advances, unified variant interpretation across institutes is becoming increasingly important. This study aims to update the genetic findings of 86 retinitis pigmentosa (RP)–related genes in a large number of Japanese RP patients by applying the standardized variant interpretation guidelines for Japanese IRD patients (J-IRD-VI guidelines) built upon ACMG/AMP rules and assess the contribution of these genes in RP-allied diseases.

Methods

We assessed 2325 probands with RP (n=2155, including n=1204 sequenced previously with the same sequencing panel) and allied diseases (n=170, all newly analyzed), including Usher syndrome, Leber congenital amaurosis, and cone-rod dystrophy (CRD). Target sequencing using a panel of 86 genes was performed. The variants were interpreted according to the J-IRD-VI guidelines.

Results

A total of 3564 variants were detected, of which 524 variants were interpreted as pathogenic or likely pathogenic. Among these 524 variants, 280 (53.4%) had been either undetected or interpreted as variants of unknown significance or benign variants in our earlier study of 1204 RP patients. This led to a genetic diagnostic rate in 38.6% of RP patients, withEYSaccounting for 46.7% of the genetically solved patients, showing a 9% increase in diagnostic rate from our earlier study. The genetic diagnostic rate for CRD patients was 28.2%, with RP-related genes significantly contributing over other allied diseases.

Conclusion

A large-scale genetic analysis using the J-IRD-VI guidelines highlighted the unique genetic findings for Japanese IRD patients; these findings serve as a foundation for the clinical application of gene-specific therapies.
Clinical Effectiveness of cardiac rehabilitation utilisation and the barriers to its completion among patients of low socioeconomic status living in rural areas: a mixed methods study
Authors: Beleigoli Alline , Dafny Hila Ariela , de Plaza Maria Alejandra Pinero , Hutchinson Claire , Marin Tania , Ramos Joyce S , Suebkinorn Orathai , Gebremichael Lemlem G. , Bulamu Norma B. , Keech Wendy , Ludlow Marie , Hendriks Jeroen , Versace Vincent , Clark Robyn A.
Published: November 2023

Background

Low socioeconomic status (LSES) and rurality are associated with poor cardiovascular outcomes and reduced cardiac rehabilitation (CR) participation.

Aim

To investigate CR utilization and effectiveness, factors, needs and barriers associated with non-completion among patients of LSES in rural Australia.

Methods

Through a concurrent triangulation mixed methods design we converged the results of a retrospective cohort and a qualitative study. A Cox survival model applied to a population balanced by inverse probability weighting assessed the association between CR utilization and 12-month mortality/cardiovascular readmissions. Associations with non-completion were tested by logistic regression. Barriers and needs to CR completion were evaluated by thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews and focus groups with 28 participants.

Results

Among 16,159 eligible separations, 44.3% were referred and 11.2% completed CR. Completing CR (HR 0.65; 95%CI 0.57-0.74; p<0.001) led to a lower risk of cardiovascular readmission/death. Living alone (OR 1.38; 95%CI 1.00-1.89; p=0.048), having diabetes (OR 1.48; 95%CI 1.02-2.13; p=0.037), or having depression (OR 1.54; 95%CI 1.14-2.08; p=0.005), were associated with a higher risk of non-completion whereas enrolment in a telehealth program was associated with a lower risk of non-completion (OR 0.26; 95%CI 0.18-0.38; p<0.001). Themes related to logistic issues, social support, transition of care challenges, lack of care integration, and of person-centeredness emerged as barriers to CR completion.

Conclusions

CR completion was low but effective in reducing mortality/cardiovascular readmissions. Understanding and addressing barriers and needs through mixed methods can help tailor CR programs to vulnerable populations and improve completion and outcomes.
Deuteration provides a general strategy to enhance azobenzene-based photopharmacology
Authors: Roßmann Kilian , Gonzalez-Hernandez Alberto J. , Bhuyan Rahul , Börjesson Karl , Levitz Joshua , Broichhagen Johannes
Published: November 2023

Herein, we present deuterated azobenzene photoswitches as a general means of enhancing photopharmacological molecules. Deuteration can improve azobenzene performance in terms of light sensitivity, photoswitch efficiency, and photoswitch kinetics with minimal alteration to the underlying structure of the photopharmacological ligand. We report synthesized deuterated azobenzene-based ligands for the optimized optical control of ion channel and G protein-coupled receptor function in live cells, setting the stage for the straightforward, widespread adoption of this approach.
Social isolation recruits amygdala-cortical circuitry to escalate alcohol drinking
Authors: Patel Reesha R. , Patarino Makenzie , Kim Kelly , Pamintuan Rachelle , Taschbach Felix H. , Li Hao , Lee Christopher R. , van Hoek Aniek , Castro Rogelio , Cazares Christian , Miranda Raymundo L. , Jia Caroline , Delahanty Jeremy , Batra Kanha , Keyes Laurel R. , Libster Avraham , Wichmann Romy , Pereira Talmo D. , Benna Marcus K. , Tye Kay M.
Published: November 2023

How do social factors impact the brain and contribute to increased alcohol drinking? We found that social rank predicts alcohol drinking, where subordinates drink more than dominants. Furthermore, social isolation escalates alcohol drinking, particularly impacting subordinates who display a greater increase in alcohol drinking compared to dominants. Using cellular resolution calcium imaging, we show that the basolateral amygdala-medial prefrontal cortex (BLA-mPFC) circuit predicts alcohol drinking in a rank-dependent manner, unlike non-specific BLA activity. The BLA-mPFC circuit becomes hyperexcitable during social isolation, detecting social isolation states. Mimicking the observed increases in BLA-mPFC activity using optogenetics was sufficient to increase alcohol drinking, suggesting the BLA-mPFC circuit may be a neural substrate for the negative impact of social isolation. To test the hypothesis that the BLA-mPFC circuit conveys a signal induced by social isolation to motivate alcohol consumption, we first determined if this circuit detects social information. Leveraging optogenetics in combination with calcium imaging and SLEAP automated pose tracking, we found that BLA-mPFC circuitry governs social behavior and neural representation of social contact. We further show that BLA-mPFC stimulation mimics social isolation-induced mPFC encoding of sucrose and alcohol, and inhibition of the BLA-mPFC circuit decreases alcohol drinking following social isolation. Collectively, these data suggest the amygdala-cortical circuit mirrors a neural encoding state similar to social isolation and underlies social isolation-associated alcohol drinking.
Energetics and Clinical Factors for the Time Required to Walk 400 Meters The Study of Muscle, Mobility and Aging (SOMMA)
Authors: Cummings Steven R. , Lui Li-Yung , Glynn Nancy W. , Mau Theresa , Cawthon Peggy M. , Kritchevsky Stephen B. , Coen Paul M. , Goodpaster Bret , Marcinek David J. , Hepple Russell T. , Patel Sheena , Newman Anne B.
Published: November 2023

Background

Walking slows with aging often leading to mobility disability. Mitochondrial energetics has been found to influence gait speed over short distances. Additionally, walking is a complex activity but few clinical factors that may influence walk time have been studied.

Methods

We examined 879 participants ≥70 years and measured the time to walk 400m. We tested the hypothesis that decreased mitochondrial energetics by respirometry in muscle biopsies and magnetic resonance spectroscopy in the thigh, is associated with longer time to walk 400m. We also used cardiopulmonary exercise testing to assess the energetic costs of walking: maximum oxygen consumption (VO2peak) and energy cost-capacity (the ratio of VO2, at a slow speed to VO2peak). In addition, we tested the hypothesis that selected clinical factors would also be associated with 400m walk time.

Results

Lower Max OXPHOS was associated with longer walk time and the association was explained by the energetics costs of walking, leg power and weight. Additionally, a multivariate model revealed that longer walk time was also significantly associated with lower VO2peak, greater cost-capacity ratio, weaker leg power, heavier weight, hip and knee stiffness, peripheral neuropathy, greater perceived exertion while walking slowly, greater physical fatigability, less moderate-to-vigorous exercise, less sedentary time and anemia. Significant associations between age, sex, muscle mass, and peripheral artery disease with 400m walk time were explained by other clinical and physiologic factors.

Conclusions

Lower mitochondrial energetics is associated with needing more time to walk 400m. This supports the value of developing interventions to improve mitochondrial energetics. Additionally, doing more moderate-to-vigorous exercise, increasing leg power, reducing weight, treating hip and knee stiffness, and screening for and treating anemia may reduce the time required to walk 400m and reduce the risk of mobility disability.
Evolutionary dynamics of 1,976 lymphoid malignancies predict clinical outcome
Authors: Gabbutt Calum , Duran-Ferrer Martí , Grant Heather , Mallo Diego , Nadeu Ferran , Househam Jacob , Villamor Neus , Krali Olga , Nordlund Jessica , Zenz Thorsten , Campo Elias , Lopez-Guillermo Armando , Fitzgibbon Jude , Barnes Chris P , Shibata Darryl , Martin-Subero José I , Graham Trevor A
Published: November 2023

Cancer development, progression, and response to treatment are evolutionary processes, but characterising the evolutionary dynamics at sufficient scale to be clinically-meaningful has remained challenging. Here, we develop a new methodology called EVOFLUx, based upon natural DNA methylation barcodes fluctuating over time, that quantitatively infers evolutionary dynamics using only a bulk tumour methylation profile as input. We apply EVOFLUx to 1,976 well-characterised lymphoid cancer samples spanning a broad spectrum of diseases and show that tumour growth rates, malignancy age and epimutation rates vary by orders of magnitude across disease types. We measure that subclonal selection occurs only infrequently within bulk samples and detect occasional examples of multiple independent primary tumours. Clinically, we observe that tumour growth rates are higher in more aggressive disease subtypes, and in two series of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia patients, evolutionary histories are independent prognostic factors. Phylogenetic analyses of longitudinal CLL samples using EVOFLUx detect the seeds of future Richter transformation many decades prior to presentation. We provide orthogonal verification of EVOFLUx inferences using additional genetic and clinical data. Collectively, we show how widely- available, low-cost bulk DNA methylation data precisely measures cancer evolutionary dynamics, and provides new insights into cancer biology and clinical behaviour.
Immortalised murine R349P desmin knock-in myotubes exhibit a reduced proton leak and decreased ADP/ATP translocase levels in purified mitochondria
Authors: Berwanger Carolin , Terres Dominic , Pesta Dominik , Eggers Britta , Marcus Katrin , Wittig Ilka , Wiesner Rudolf J. , Schröder Rolf , Clemen Christoph S.
Published: November 2023

Desmin gene mutations cause myopathies and cardiomyopathies. Our previously characterised R349P desminopathy mice, which carry the ortholog of the common human desmin mutation R350P, showed marked alterations in mitochondrial morphology and function in muscle tissue. By isolating skeletal muscle myoblasts from offspring of R349P desminopathy and p53 knock-out mice, we established an immortalised cellular disease model. Heterozygous and homozygous R349P desmin knock-in and wild-type myoblasts could be well differentiated into multinucleated spontaneously contracting myotubes. The desminopathy myoblasts showed the characteristic disruption of the desmin cytoskeleton and desmin protein aggregation, and the desminopathy myotubes showed the characteristic myofibrillar irregularities. Long-term electrical pulse stimulation promoted myotube differentiation and markedly increased their spontaneous contraction rate. In both heterozygous and homozygous R349P desminopathy myotubes, this treatment restored a regular myofibrillar cross-striation pattern as seen in wild-type myotubes. High-resolution respirometry of mitochondria purified from myotubes by density gradient ultracentrifugation revealed normal oxidative phosphorylation capacity, but a significantly reduced proton leak in mitochondria from the homozygous R349P desmin knock-in cells. Consistent with a reduced proton flux across the inner mitochondrial membrane, our quantitative proteomic analysis of the purified mitochondria revealed significantly reduced levels of ADP/ATP translocases in the homozygous R349P desmin knock-in genotype. As this alteration was also detected in the soleus muscle of R349P desminopathy mice, which, in contrast to the mitochondria purified from cultured cells, showed a variety of other dysregulated mitochondrial proteins, we consider this finding to be an early step in the pathogenesis of secondary mitochondriopathy in desminopathy.

Highlights

R349P desminopathy immortalised murine myoblasts as a cellular disease model

Electrical stimulation improves myofibrillar maturation in desminopathy myotubes

Reduced proton leak in mitochondria of homozygous R349P desmin knock-in myotubes

Reduced ADP/ATP translocase levels in mitochondria of desminopathy myotubes

Early signs of secondary mitochondriopathy in desminopathy in cultured myotubes
The specific factors of heterogeneity characterizing investors' beliefs
Authors: Chenini Hajer , Jarboui Anis
Published: November 2023

Purpose

A separate study of the different behavioral biases does not allow for a full understanding of the complexity and stability of the heterogeneity of beliefs. Therefore, through a more global view of these anomalies, the authors wish to show that they can converge on a single concept, which is the heterogeneity of beliefs.

Design/methodology/approach

It is therefore essential to stress that the importance of this study is mainly reflected in the methodological approach used in the construction and analysis of the map and not only in the results achieved. This contribution states that structural analysis, as a means of building the cognitive map, can facilitate the task of investors and other decision-makers, in the identification and analysis of the heterogeneity of beliefs that can therefore guide investors' strategy in decision-making.

Findings

The authors have studied the behavior of the investor and its way of interpreting the information and the authors have emphasized the value of studying the concept of heterogeneity of beliefs in its complexity. So that part of the work seems to be relevant and crucial to filling, if you will, that void. In this sense, the authors have shown that behavioral abnormalities are multidimensional concepts: “self-deception”, “cognitive bias”, “emotional bias” and “social bias”.

Originality/value

In particular, this article will aim to achieve the objective of proposing a model for measuring the heterogeneity of beliefs. Thus, the authors want to show that the heterogeneity of beliefs can be measured directly through the different behavioral anomalies.
Spatial accessibility dynamics of urban parks in Nanjing, China: implications for spatial equity
Authors: Liu Zhe , Liu Weibo , Zhao Bin
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study aimed to explore the spatial accessibility dynamics of urban parks and their driving forces from 1901 to 2010 in terms of the dynamic relationships between spatial morphology and road networks, taking Nanjing City as an example.

Design/methodology/approach

This study mapped and examined the spatiotemporal distribution of urban parks and road networks in four time points at Nanjing: the 1910s, 1930s, 1960s and 2010s, using the analysis methodology of spatial design network analysis, kernel density estimation and buffer analysis. Two approaches of spatial overlaying and data analysis were adopted to investigate the accessibility dynamics. The spatial overlaying compared the parks' layout and the road networks' core, subcore and noncore accessible areas; the data analysis clarified the average data on the city-wide and local scales of the road networks within the park buffer zone.

Findings

The analysis of the changing relationships between urban parks and the spatial morphology of road networks showed that the accessibility of urban parks has generally improved. This was influenced by six main factors: planning implementation, political policies, natural resources, historical heritage and cultural and economic levels.

Social implications

The results provide a reference for achieving spatial equity, improving urban park accessibility and supporting sustainable urban park planning.

Originality/value

An increasing number of studies have explored the spatial accessibility of urban parks through the relationships between their spatial distribution and road networks. However, few studies have investigated the dynamic changes in accessibility over time. Discussing parks' accessibility over relatively long-time scales has practical, innovative and theoretical values; because it can reveal correlational laws and internal influences not apparent in short term and provide reference and implications for parks' spatial equity.
Impact of fat content on the modulation of viscosity, microstructure and enzymatic hydrolysis of UHT milk during simulated gastrointestinal digestion
Authors: Iqbal Shahid , Zhang Ping , Wu Peng , Ge Anlei , Kirk Timothy V. , Chen Xiao Dong
Published: November 2023

Digestion of ultra‐high temperature milk with different levels of fat content was examined in vitro under semi‐dynamic conditions with real‐time measurements of viscosity. All milk viscosity increased during the gastric phase despite digestive fluid dilution due to protein aggregation. Higher fat formulations presented greater viscosity and denser microstructure with larger mean droplet size. It experienced faster proteolysis and lipolysis throughout digestion with 524 μmol free fatty acids released compared with semi‐skimmed milk (467 μmol), but had lower conversion of triglycerides at the intestinal phase terminus. This study has provided a rheological understanding of the dynamics of UHT milk digestion as impacted by fat content.
The nexus of research and development investment, financial development, energy use, and environmental degradation in Asian economies
Authors: Azam Khan Muhammad , Sarwar Ghulam , Hafeez Muhammad Haroon , Khan Himayatullah , Ur Rahman Haseeb
Published: November 2023

This study explores the impact of research and development () investment and financial development on environmental degradation measured by carbon emissions (CO2), and energy use along with some other variables in a panel of 12 Asian economies using balanced panel data from 1997 to 2020. The empirical estimates of and dynamic ordinary least squares reveal that spending, financial development, and globalization lower environmental degradation by reducing emissions. In contrast, economic growth, energy use, population, and industrialization increase environmental degradation (Model 1). Moreover, economic growth, R&D spending, financial development, environmental degradation, and industrialization have a positive direct effect on energy use, whereas population and globalization have an inverse relationship with energy use (Model 2). These empirical findings recommend that the management authorities of Asian economies need to develop thoughtful action plans to achieve a balance between economic growth, financial and industrial development, and the accomplishment of sustainable development goals by reducing carbon emissions and sustaining energy consumption.
Clinical manifestations and outcomes associated with PICU admission in children with multisystem inflammatory syndrome in Taiwan: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Tseng Chi‐Teng , Lin Jainn‐Jim , Huang Jing‐Long , Chiu Cheng‐Hsun , Wu Chao‐Yi
Published: November 2023

Background

Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS‐C) is a rare and serious systemic inflammatory disorder that occurs following a severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection. This study aims to investigate the clinical manifestations, risk factors associated with pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) admission, and outcome among children with MIS‐C in Taiwan.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted among pediatric patients diagnosed with MIS‐C between June 2022 and February 2023 at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taiwan. Data on demographics, clinical features, laboratory findings, treatment modalities, and outcomes were collected and analyzed.

Results

Twenty‐eight MIS‐C patients, including 9 boys and 19 girls, with an average age of 5.3 ± 3.8 years old, were enrolled. Most of the cases (78.6%) were diagnosed following the first pandemic wave of COVID‐19 in Taiwan. The leading clinical manifestations observed were fever (100%), skin rash (64.3%), tachycardia (46.4%), and vomiting (46.4%). Nine patients (32.1%) were admitted to the PICU due to hypotension or neurological manifestations. Higher levels of band‐form white blood cells, procalcitonin, ferritin, d‐dimer, prothrombin time, NT‐proBNP, and lower platelet levels on arrival were associated with PICU admission (p = 3.9 × 10−2,9 × 10−3, 4 × 10−3,1 × 10−3, 5 × 10−3, 4.1 × 10−2, and 3.4 × 10−2, respectively). Arrhythmia in one case (3.5%) and coronary artery abnormalities, including dilatation in two cases (7.1%) and small aneurysms in one case (3.5%) were identified. Regardless of ICU admission, no patients experienced systolic dysfunction or mortality following treatment.

Conclusion

MIS‐C cases in Taiwan have a favorable outcome. Although one‐third of the patients required PICU admission, none of the MIS‐C cases resulted in severe cardiovascular morbidity or mortality. This study provides valuable insights into the clinical manifestations and outcomes associated with PICU admission in children with MIS‐C in Taiwan.
Effect of chemotherapy on urinary volatile biomarkers for lung cancer by HS‐SPME‐GC‐MS and chemometrics
Authors: Rubio‐Sánchez Ricardo , Ríos‐Reina Rocío , Ubeda Cristina
Published: November 2023

Background

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) have been studied as possible biomarkers in several diseases, including lung cancer. Early detection of cancer can improve long‐term survival rates and the quality of life, so the study of VOCs in exhaled breath and urine has been increasing in recent years. This study aimed to assess the urinary VOCs that are modified after chemotherapy to identify those with the potential to be lung cancer biomarkers that can be monitored during treatment.

Methods

Three urine samples from 10 men with stage IV lung adenocarcinoma were collected, as well as urine samples from 14 men with other types of cancer (control group). All samples were analyzed by headspace‐solid phase microextraction gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry.

Results

A total of 21 urinary VOCs were found with different levels after the administration of chemotherapy, with 2‐pentanone being one of those that significantly decreased. Furthermore, 2‐pentanone and 3‐hydroxy‐2,4,4‐trimethylpentyl‐2‐methylpropanoate showed statistically significant differences with the control group.

Conclusions

Chemotherapy administered to patients with advanced lung adenocarcinoma modified the volatile profile of urine. 2‐Pentanone, a final product of the increased rate of fatty acid oxidation and protein hypermetabolism, significantly decreased after chemotherapy. Therefore, monitoring its urinary excretion could be very useful since its decrease over time could indicate an adequate response to chemotherapy and arrest of cancer development. Another VOC that could be a potential lung cancer biomarker is 3 hydroxy‐2,4,4‐trimethylpentyl‐2‐methylpropanoate, whose origin may be due to inhibition of the propanoic acid metabolic pathway or increased aldehyde dehydrogenase activity.
Estimating the sensitivity of CEO compensation to gross versus net accounting performance
Authors: Black Dirk E. , Dikolli Shane S. , Hofmann Christian , Pfeiffer Thomas
Published: November 2023

In empirically estimating the relation between CEO compensation and accounting‐based firm and peer performance, researchers often define the performance variables net of CEO compensation expense. We analytically show that a researcher's use of CEO compensation as a regression's dependent variable and as an expense in defining a regression's independent variables representing accounting‐based firm and peer performance will bias the researcher's pay‐for‐performance and relative performance evaluation (RPE) regression coefficients. In a panel estimation of CEO compensation, we document an attenuation bias in the coefficients on net firm and net peer performance. This evidence may partially explain inferences of weak CEO incentives and limited usage of RPE in prior work. Our results imply that in CEO compensation regressions, a researcher can remove biases in inferring CEO incentives and RPE usage by using gross rather than net accounting performance variables—that is, by adding back CEO compensation expense to net accounting measures.
Mixing short‐ and long‐acting local anaesthetics in peripheral nerve blocks: Protocol for a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Temberg Jens L. , Pisljagic Sanja , Steensbæk Mathias T. , Yousef Sina , Chafranska Lana , Lange Kai H. W. , Rothe Christian , Nørskov Anders K. , Maagaard Mathias , Lundstrøm Lars H.
Published: November 2023

Introduction

This protocol describes a systematic review and meta‐analysis to evaluate the clinical effects of mixing short‐ and long‐acting local anaesthetics in peripheral nerve blocks. Clinicians often combine short‐ and long‐acting local anaesthetics to achieve a briefer onset time. However, this may come with a prize, namely a shorter total duration of the block, which is of clinical importance.

Objective

This systematic review aims to strengthen the knowledge of the clinical effects associated with this practice. The primary outcome is the duration of block analgesia. Secondary outcomes are block onset time, sensory and motor block duration. Exploratory outcomes are postoperative pain scores, cumulative 24‐h opioid consumption and the prevalence of serious adverse events.

Methods

We will conduct a meta‐analysis of the extracted data, and the risk of bias for each study will be evaluated. We will perform a Trial Sequential Analysis, subgroup, and sensitivity analyses and assess the overall risk of publication bias. Finally, we will evaluate the review using the GRADE principles.
Characteristics of pediatric behavioral health emergencies in the prehospital setting
Authors: Wnorowska Julia H. , Naik Vishal , Ramgopal Sriram , Watkins Kenshata , Hoffmann Jennifer A.
Published: November 2023

Objective

Approximately 10% of emergency medical services (EMS) encounters in the United States are behavioral health related, but pediatric behavioral health EMS encounters have not been well characterized. We sought to describe demographic, clinical, and EMS system characteristics of pediatric behavioral health EMS encounters across the United States and to evaluate factors associated with sedative medication administration and physical restraint use during these encounters.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cross‐sectional study of pediatric (<18 years old) behavioral health EMS encounters from 2019 to 2020 using the National Emergency Medical Services Information System. Behavioral health encounters were defined using primary or secondary impression codes. We used multivariable logistic regression to identify factors associated with sedative medication administration and physical restraint use.

Results

Of 2,740,271 pediatric EMS encounters, 309,442 (11.3%) were for behavioral health. Of pediatric behavioral health EMS encounters, 85.2% of patients were 12–17 years old, 57.3% of patients were female, and 86.6% of encounters occurred in urban areas. Sedative medications and physical restraints were used in 2.2% and 3.0% of pediatric behavioral health EMS encounters, respectively. Sedative medication use was associated with the presence of developmental, communication, or physical disabilities relative to their absence (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 3.38, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.93–3.91) and with encounters in the West relative to the South (aOR 1.23, 95% CI 1.16–1.32). Physical restraint use was associated with encounters by patients 6–11 years old relative to those 12–17 years old (aOR 1.35, 95% CI 1.27–1.44), the West relative to the South (aOR 3.49, 95% CI 3.27–3.72), and private nonhospital EMS systems relative to fire departments (aOR 3.39, 95% CI 3.18–3.61).

Conclusions

Among pediatric prehospital behavioral health EMS encounters, the use of sedative medications and physical restraint varies by demographic, clinical, and EMS system characteristics. Regional variation suggests opportunities may be available to standardize documentation and care practices during pediatric behavioral health EMS encounters.
Efficacy of calcium hydroxide‐loaded poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) biodegradable nanoparticles as an intracanal medicament against endodontopathogenic microorganisms in a multi‐species biofilm model
Authors: Leelapornpisid Warat , Wanwatanakul Piyaporn , Mahatnirunkul Thanisorn
Published: November 2023

This study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of calcium hydroxide‐loaded poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) nanoparticles (CH‐loaded PLGA NPs) on multi‐species biofilms. Human root blocks were prepared (n = 40), and multi‐species suspensions of Candida albicans, Enterococcus faecalis and Streptococcus gordonii were incubated within the root canals for 21 days. Canals (n = 10/group) were then medicated with saline solution (negative control), chlorhexidine (positive control), calcium hydroxide and CH‐loaded PLGA NPs for 7 days. Samples taken from the 0.1 mm root canal dentin were collected, and cell growth was detected by culture on BHI agar. The viable cell count of the Ca(OH)2, chlorhexidine gel and CH‐loaded PLGA NPs group was significantly lower than the normal saline group (p < 0.001). CH‐loaded PLGA NPs demonstrated a significant lower viable cell than Ca(OH)2 (p < 0.001); it has potential as a medicament for endodontic therapy.
Tomographic evaluation of the glands and lymph nodes of the cervical region in the crab‐eating fox (Cerdocyon thous)
Authors: da Costa Isis Pinto , Schimming Bruno Cesar , de Oliveira Fernanda Gabriela , da Silva Jeana Pereira , de Melo Santos Mariana , de Lima Heloisa Coppini , Castañeda Brayan Sayed López , da Silva Suelen Lorena , Tsunemi Miriam Harumi , Mamprim Maria Jaqueline
Published: November 2023

The present study aimed to determine references of normality of computed tomographic (CT) images of mandibular and parotid salivary glands (PSGs), medial retropharyngeal and mandibular lymph nodes and thyroid gland of 10 clinically healthy crab‐eating foxes, Cerdocyon thous. The location, shape, homogeneity of the parenchyma, and length, height, width and pre‐ and post‐contrast attenuation values were evaluated. The anatomical structures in the crab‐eating foxes studied here presented anatomical landmarks similar to those described for domestic dogs, and showed a regular shape and homogenous parenchyma, except for the PSGs, that showed predominantly heterogeneous parenchyma. The thyroid gland topography in the crab‐eating fox, though very similar, is not identical to the domestic dog and the presence of isthmus between the lobes was not detected. The values obtained from crab‐eating foxes are within the normal range, although in the upper limits of dogs. There was a significant difference in the attenuation values between the right and left lobes of the thyroid gland, being greater in the left thyroid lobe. CT attenuation values ranges for this neotropical canid can be incorporated into routine staging procedures in the veterinary care of the crab‐eating foxes. Furthermore, the CT images obtained were similar to those of healthy dogs, and the information obtained can be considered as initial tomographic references of normality in the cervical structures of the crab‐eating fox, in order to aid in the diagnosis of future diseases that can affect this neotropical canid.
Changes in mesenteric fat thickness and its clinical impact in bariatric surgery
Authors: Chiyanika Chileka , Cheung Lorena Tsui Fun , Liu Kin Hung , Kong Alice Pik Shan , Wong Simon Kin Hung , Ng Enders Kwok Wai , Chu Winnie Chiu Wing
Published: November 2023

Obesity, especially central obesity is associated with increased risk of metabolic syndrome, non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and type 2 diabetes mellitus. The study aimed to investigate the associations of the changes of abdominal fat thicknesses with changes of anthropometric indexes and improvements of metabolic phenotypes in patients with obesity and T2DM before and after bariatric surgery. Between April 2016 and January 2017, 34 adult patients with concurrent obesity and T2DM scheduled for different bariatric surgeries were prospectively evaluated by ultrasound before and 1‐year after bariatric surgery to determine abdominal fat thicknesses (mesenteric fat, preperitoneal fat and subcutaneous fat) and NAFLD. At 1 year, of the 25 patients that finished the study, significant decrease in mesenteric‐fat‐thickness was associated with significant reduction of obesity, that is, BMI (−24%, p < .001), remission of metabolic syndrome (32%, p = .008), NAFLD (60%, p < .001) and T2DM (44%, p < .001). Lower baseline mesenteric fat thickness was associated with remission of metabolic syndrome. Lower baseline mesenteric‐fat‐thickness may have the potential to predict metabolic syndrome remission after bariatric surgery.
Therapie des nekrobiotischen Xanthogranuloms – Fallserie und aktuelle Literatur
Authors: Hansen Inga , Ghandili Susanne , Abeck Finn , Booken Nina , Schneider Stefan W.
Published: November 2023

Das nekrobiotische Xanthogranulom ist eine seltene Erkrankung, die zu den Nicht‐Langerhans‐Zell‐Histiozytosen gehört. Charakteristisch sind gelbliche Hautveränderungen, die typischerweise periorbital lokalisiert sind. Extrakutane Manifestationen aller Organe sind möglich und können potenziell lebensbedrohliche Komplikationen verursachen. Die Erkrankung gehört zu den fakultativen Paraneoplasien und zeigt eine hohe Assoziation zu Paraproteinämien. Diese Aspekte sollten in der Umfelddiagnostik berücksichtigt werden. Da die Erkrankung sehr selten ist, gibt es bislang keine standardisierten Richtlinien zur Therapie. Als erfolgreiche Therapieregime haben sich insbesondere die Kombination aus Prednisolon und Chlorambucil sowie die intravenösen Immunglobuline herausgestellt. Wir präsentieren vier Fälle aus unserer Klinik sowie die aktuellen Ergebnisse der Literatur in diesem Mini‐Review und möchten damit die therapeutische Herausforderung sowie die Relevanz der Erarbeitung von Richtlinien unterstreichen.