bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identifying Children in Foster Care and Improving Foster Care Documentation in Primary Care
Authors: Broussard Camille A. , Kim Julia M. , Hunter Brittany , Mobley LaToya , Trent Maria , Seltzer Rebecca
Published: October 2023

Background:

Children and youth in foster care (CYFC) are a population with special healthcare needs, and the American Academy of Pediatrics has healthcare standards to care for this population, but implementation challenges include identifying clinic patients in foster care (FC). Documentation of FC status in the Electronic Health Record (EHR) can support the identification of CYFC to tailor care delivery. Therefore, we aimed to improve the percentage of CYFC with problem list (PL) documentation of FC status from 20% to 60% within 12 months.

Methods:

This study used a five-cycle plan-do-study-act quality improvement model in two co-located primary care teaching clinics. The primary outcome was the weekly percentage of patients with FC status on EHR PL. Ishikawa cause and effect analysis and resident survey identified barriers and informed interventions: education, patient list distribution, documentation training, email reminders, and clinic champion. We constructed statistical process control charts of the primary outcome to assess for improvement.

Results:

Mean weekly percentage of patients with FC status on PL improved from 19.8% to 60.2%. The most extensive improvements occurred after designating a clinic champion and providing email reminders with enhanced patient lists. The sustainability of PL documentation (mean = 71.7%) was demonstrated 3–4 years after the completion of plan-do-study-act cycle interventions.

Conclusions:

Educating providers, collaborating with child welfare to provide patient lists to providers, standardizing documentation, and designating clinic champions are promising methods of improving EHR documentation of FC status. Identifying and documenting FC status are important initial steps to optimizing care for this vulnerable population in primary care.
Development of a Semifascicle Graft Technique to Bridge Peripheral Nerve Defect
Authors: Xu Heng , Chen Gang , Yuan Ye , Zhou Sizheng , Wo Yan , Wang Wenjin
Published: October 2023

Background

Autologous nerve grafting, the criterion standard for bridging peripheral nerves, can cause complications at the donor site. We investigated a novel approach to reconstruct the nerve gap with a split cross-sectional unmatched semifascicle autograft, which was harvested from the distal part of the injured nerve.

Methods

A patient diagnosed with left-sided frontal branch facial nerve dissection underwent nerve bridging emergency surgery using a semifascicle nerve graft. A sciatic nerve model was used to validate the feasibility and mechanism of this method. Male Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 36) were randomized into (A) intact fascicle, (B) semifascicle, and (C) semifascicle + conduit groups and further subdivided into 4- and 8-week groups for histological analysis of the neurotissue area, fibers, and Schwann cells. The 8-week groups underwent weekly pain and temperature tests; the wet weight of the gastrocnemius muscle was measured after euthanasia.

Results

The frontalis of the patient's injured side exhibited movement at 2 months postsurgery and recovered a symmetrical appearance at 13 months. Group A exhibited more neurotissue areas and fibers than groups B and C at week 4; group B had more neurotissue than group C. Group A had greater neurotissue areas than groups B and C at week 8; groups B and C exhibited no differences. The groups displayed no differences regarding nerve fiber, pain, and temperature analysis at week 8. Muscle wet weight of groups A and B exhibited no differences and was higher than that of group C.

Conclusion

We demonstrated the clinical translational value of semifascicle nerve grafts; the injured site was both the donor and recipient, thereby avoiding donor site damage and associated complications.
Immediate Soft Tissue Reconstruction in Lower Limb Traumas Using Propeller Perforator Flaps
Authors: Gatto Arianna , Giacomini Giorgio , Cavalli Erica Michela , Pajardi Giorgio Eugenio , Marchesi Andrea
Published: October 2023

Background

Open bone fractures represent a demanding clinical condition that can be life- or limb-threatening. For small- to medium-size soft tissue defects of the lower extremity, propeller perforator flaps are a viable option for reconstruction. We report our experience in Gustilo IIIB open fractures treatment with immediate coverage through propeller-based perforator flaps performed in acute setting.

Methods

Between 2019 and 2022, 94 Gustilo III fractures were admitted to our trauma center, and 28 were Gustilo IIIB fractures. Five patients were eligible for an immediate perforator-based propeller flaps reconstruction. The mean age of the patients was 33.8 years. All of them were male. One of them was a heavy smoker (15 cigarettes per day). No other comorbidities were present.

Results

The mean operating time, including fracture reduction and fixation time, was 106 minutes. The length of the defect varied between 5 and 7 cm and the width between 3 and 4 cm. We reported no major complications, and none of the patients required a surgical revision of the flap. A patient with smoking habit reported a superficial flap necrosis. The mean follow-up was 5.5 months. No cases of nonunion or osteomyelitis have developed so far.

Conclusions

The use of perforator-based propeller flaps, in acute trauma setting, has not been reported in literature so far. In our experience, propeller perforator flaps are a viable reconstructive option in immediate reconstruction during the acute management of open fractures.
Analyzing the Visibility of Gender-Affirming Surgery Education on US Plastic Surgery Residency Program Web Sites
Authors: Camacho Justin M. , Najafali Daniel , Francis Shannon , Tople Tannon L. , Patel Heli S. , Thawanyarat Kometh , Eggert Gina R. , Calderon Thais , Nazerali Rahim S. , Morrison Shane D.
Published: October 2023

Background

As the demand for gender affirmation grows, teaching gender-affirming surgery (GAS) in plastic and reconstructive surgery (PRS) programs has become increasingly important. Residency applicants interested in GAS often use program web sites to explore potential training opportunities. Our study aimed to quantify the GAS training opportunities promoted on residency program web sites and determine the characteristics of programs likely to promote GAS training.

Methods

An assessment of 88 integrated PRS residency programs' web sites was conducted between 2021 and 2022. Plastic and reconstructive surgery residency and institutional webpages were queried for geographical location, training opportunities in GAS through residency or fellowship, and the number of faculty performing GAS. Descriptive statistics and multivariable regressions were used to describe and identify factors associated with increased GAS residency training opportunities.

Results

Twenty-six percent of PRS residencies mentioned training opportunities for GAS on their web sites. Gender-affirming surgery fellowships were offered at 7% of institutions, and an additional 7% were available via adjunct academic programs. Programs with faculty practicing GAS were 54% more likely to mention GAS on their residency page (odds ratio, 1.54; 95% confidence interval, 1.14–2.21;P= 0.009).

Conclusions

Few PRS residency programs mention GAS on their web sites. As GAS becomes a more robust component of plastic surgery, appropriate information about the extent of GAS training should be available for applicants. Determining how local, state, and federal policies impact programs' abilities to highlight GAS should be investigated in future studies.
Aspects of Rest–Activity Rhythms Associated With Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms in Moderate and Severe Dementia
Authors: Ishimaru Daiki , Tanaka Hiroyuki , Nagata Yuma , Ogawa Yasuhiro , Fukuhara Keita , Nishikawa Takashi
Published: October 2023

Objective:

Disturbances in rest–activity rhythms (RAR) are commonly observed in patients with dementia; however, the influence thereof on behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) remains unexplored. This study aimed to determine whether there is an association between RAR and BPSD among patients with moderate and severe dementia.

Methods:

RAR analyses of 64 participants were performed using actigraphy. BPSD was assessed using the Neuropsychiatric Inventory-Nursing Home (NPI-NH) scale, and other clinical variables were assessed by the Mini-Mental State Examination, Cognitive Test for Severe Dementia, and Hyogo Activities of Daily Living Scale. Correlations among RAR, sleep time, and BPSD were analyzed. A stepwise multiple linear regression analysis was conducted to examine the association of RAR and sleep time with BPSD. The demographic variables were also adjusted. Variables were compared between two groups with aberrant and nonaberrant activity peak timing.

Results:

Correlation analysis showed that longer maximum durations of activity and shorter daytime sleep were associated with higher NPI-NH scores. Stepwise multiple linear regression analysis showed that maximum activity duration predicted the NPI-NH score after adjustment for the demographic variables. There was no significant difference in any variables between the groups with aberrant and nonaberrant activity peak timing.

Conclusion:

RAR is associated with BPSD in moderate-to-severe dementia, which should be considered with regard to treatment.
Anticipated Psychological or Behavioral Reactions to Learning Alzheimer Biomarker Results
Authors: Clark Lindsay R. , Erickson Claire M. , Chin Nathaniel A. , Basche Kristin E. , Jonaitis Erin M. , Ketchum Fred B. , Gleason Carey E.
Published: October 2023

Background:

As Alzheimer disease (AD) biomarker testing becomes more widely available, adults may opt to learn results. Considering potential reactions to learning biomarker results can guide prebiomarker and postbiomarker testing education and counseling programs.

Methods:

Cognitively healthy adults enrolled in observational Alzheimer research responded to a telephone survey about learning AD risk information (n=334; 44% Black or African American; mean age=64.9±7.0). Multiple linear regression models tested if contextual factors predicted anticipated psychological impact (distress, stigma, and cognitive symptoms) or behavior change (planning and risk-reduction). Secondary analyses tested for differences in relationships by racial identity.

Results:

Internal health locus of control, concern about AD, self-identified sex, education, family dementia history, and belief in AD modifiability predicted anticipated psychological impact. Concern about AD, age, racial identity, belief in AD modifiability, research attitudes, and exposure to brain health-related social norms predicted anticipated behavior change. For Black respondents, there were no sex differences in anticipated distress, whereas there were stronger relationships between health locus of control, brain health social norms, and education on outcomes compared with White respondents.

Conclusions:

Results may inform personalized and culturally tailored biomarker testing education and counseling to minimize psychological impacts and increase behavior change related to learning AD risk information.
Neurophysiological effects of frequency, length, phonological neighborhood density, and iconicity on sign recognition
Authors: Zhang Xiaohong , Cao Hongwen , Li Hong
Published: October 2023

Current theories on lexical recognition are mostly based on studies from spoken languages or their written forms. Much less is known about the process of lexical recognition in sign languages. This study aims to examine the neural correlates of sign recognition by investigating the effects of lexical frequency, length, phonological neighborhood density, and iconicity during Chinese Sign Language comprehension. Twenty-two deaf signers viewed a set of sign videos that varied in the 4 lexical properties and decided if they referred to animals, while event-related potential responses were recorded. Data were analyzed through linear mixed-effects models with the lexical variables treated as continuous measures. The results showed that frequency modulated ERP amplitude as early as around 200 ms and in the late N400 time frame. Sign length invoked effects throughout the process, starting from 200 ms and pertaining to the last epoch. Neighborhood density effects were also observed early around 200 ms and later on the N400 and late positive complex (LPC). Iconicity produced robust effects on the N400 and LPC amplitude. Lexical frequency, length, and neighborhood density influence the neural dynamics of sign recognition in a similar way as to spoken words. Iconicity can confer a processing advantage due to closer form-meaning mappings. The results indicate that lexical recognition engages some mechanisms that are universal across the signed and spoken modality, but it can also be regulated by modality-specific properties such as the prevalent iconicity in sign languages.
Microbiome depiction through user-adapted bioinformatic pipelines and parameters
Authors: Nayman Eric I. , Schwartz Brooke A. , Polanco Fantaysia C. , Firek Alexandra K. , Gumabong Alayna C. , Hofstee Nolan J. , Narasimhan Giri , Cickovski Trevor , Mathee Kalai
Published: October 2023

Graphical Abstract

Determining microbiome composition is a multi-step process. The 16S rRNA gene is amplified from the extracted DNA, sequenced, and then metagenomic data are input into a bioinformatic workflow. This paper describes how choices of bioinformatic pipelines, databases, and parameter values, such as maxEE and QTrim, can impact microbial compositional output.
On-scalp magnetoencephalography can detect mesial temporal lobe epileptiform discharges
Authors: Feys Odile , Ferez Maxime , Corvilain Pierre , Schuind Sophie , Rikir Estelle , Legros Benjamin , Gaspard Nicolas , Holmes Niall , Brookes Matthew , Wens Vincent , De Tiège Xavier
Published: October 2023

The validation of on-scalp magnetoencephalography based on optically pumped magnetometers (OPM-MEG) for clinical applications requires the assessment of the spatial concordance between reconstructed neural sources and intracranial data recorded simultaneously.

We here report unprecedented data from an epileptic woman suffering from refractory focal epilepsy who underwent a 10-min simultaneous whole-scalp-covering video-OPM-MEG (118 channels) and stereo-electroencephalography (SEEG) recordings.

The most active irritative zone involved the right amygdala despite multiple seizure-onset zones. The multimodal recording allowed to detect and localize 31 simultaneous interictal epileptiform discharges (IEDs) in OPM-MEG signals among the 52 IEDs detected in SEEG signals, and corresponded to the IEDs with the highest amplitude in SEEG. These IEDs were located at the right amygdala using both modalities, with sources distant from 14.1mm.

This simultaneous recording demonstrates the ability of OPM-MEG to detect and localize IEDs from a deep mesiotemporal structure such as the amygdala with a localization value and an IED detection rate in line with previous simultaneous cryogenic MEG and SEEG studies. It paves the way for further on-scalp OPM-MEG recordings in patients with implanted materials and strengthens the potential of this growing technology for future clinical and research applications in patients with brain disorders.
Characterization of the Complete Chloroplast Genome Sequences and Phylogenetic Relationships of Four Oil-Seed Camellia spp. and related taxa
Authors: Luo Huihua , Liao Boyong , Li Yongjuan , Huang Runsheng , Zhang Kunchang , Wang Longyuan , Tan Jing , Lv Yuzhou , Lai Can , Li Yongquan
Published: October 2023

Some species in the Sect.Oleiferaof the genusCamelliaL. known as oil-seed camellia because of their high oil content and economic value. Additional studies aimed at clarifying the phylogenetic relationships and chloroplast genomes ofCamelliaspecies are needed to hybridization, as well as improve the breeding, selection and interspecific hybridization ofCamelliaspecies. The complete chloroplast genomes (cpDNA) of the four oil-seed camellia speciesC. semiserrata, C. meiocarpa, C. suaveolens, andC. osmanthawere resequenced to clarify their interspecific relationships. These cpDNA had typical tetrad structures, and they were highly conserved in various structural features. The total lengths of the cpDNA ranged from 156,965 to 157,018 bp, and 134 genes were annotated, including 88 protein-coding genes, 37 transfer RNA genes, and 8 messenger RNA genes. The average GC content of these genomes was 37.3%. The codons with the highest and lowest codon usage bias were UUA (which codes for leucine) and AGC (which codes for serine), respectively. The number of simple sequences repeats of the fourCameliaspecies ranged from 38 to 40. Mononucleotide repeats were the most common repeat type, followed by tetranucleotide, trinucleotide, and hexanucleotide repeats. Our phylogenetic analysis of cpDNA, coupled with the results of previous ploidy analyses and artificial interspecific hybridization, revealed thatC. semiserratawas most closely related toC. azalea, C. suaveolenswas most closely related toC. gauchowensis, C. osmanthawas most closely related toC. vietnamensis, andC. meiocarpawas most closely related toC. oleifera. The phylogenetic relationships between oil-seed camellia species with high oil content and economic value were characterized. Our analysis of the cpDNA provided new insights that will aid the use of artificial distant hybridization in camellia breeding programs.
The potential impact of microRNA-related functional polymorphisms in the pathogenesis of coronary heart disease
Authors: Haq Taqweem Ul , Ali Yasir , Rehman Sami Ur , Ali Sajjad , Chen Yangchao , Jalil Fazal , Shah Aftab Ali
Published: October 2023

MicroRNAs (miRNA) are important post-transcriptional gene regulators. Various populations have experienced a marked rise in the risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) due to multiple miRNA variations. The current case-control study (150 cases and 150 healthy controls) was designed to determine the potential role of five miRNA functional variants (rs2292832, rs3746444, rs11614913, rs1044165, and rs767649) as risk factors for CHD in the Pakistani population using TaqMan Real-time PCR Assay. It was observed that the single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs3746444 was significantly associated with the risk of CHD using the co-dominant model [χ2 =79.51; P = 0.0001], dominant model (GG vs AA+AG) [OR = 9.333 (5.180-16.82); P = 0.0001], heterozygous model (AG vs AA+GG) [OR = 0.1241 (0.065-0.234); P = 0.0001] and additive model [A vs G; OR = 0.3440 (0.2468-0.4795); P = 0.0001] respectively. Furthermore, rs11614913 was also linked with CHD when analyzed using a co-dominant model [χ2 =16.24; P = 0.0003], dominant model (CC vs CT+TT) [OR = 1.918 (1.210-3.042); P = 0.0075], recessive model (TT vs CT+CC) [OR = 0.2754 (0.1369-0.5540); P = 0.0002], and additive model [OR = 2.033 (1.445-2.861); P = 0.0001]. It was also found that rs767649 is connected to CHD using a co-dominant model [χ2 =114.9; P = 0.0001], dominant model (AA vs AT+TT) [OR = 7.851 (3.554-17.34); P = 0.0001], recessive model (TT vs AT+AA) [OR = 0.04956 (0.026-0.092); P = 0.0001], heterozygous model (AT vs AA+TT) [OR = 4.495 (2.737-7.382); P = 0.0001], and inheritance additive model [A vs T; OR=7.154 (4.902-10.44); P = 0.0001] respectively. The SNP rs1044165 revealed a strong correlation with CHD using the heterozygous inheritance model (AG vs GG+AA) [OR = 0.3442 (0.1308-0.9055); P = 0.0276]. No statistically significant association (P □ 0.05) of rs2292832 SNP with CHD was found using all five inheritance models.
Long-distance tmFRET using bipyridyl- and phenanthroline-based ligands
Authors: Gordon Sharona E. , Evans Eric G. B. , Otto Shauna C. , Tessmer Maxx H. , Shaffer Kyle D. , Gordon Moshe T. , Petersson E. James , Stoll Stefan , Zagotta William N.
Published: October 2023

With the great progress on determining protein structures over the last decade comes a renewed appreciation that structures must be combined with dynamics and energetics to understand function. Fluorescence spectroscopy, specifically Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET), provides a great window into dynamics and energetics due to its application at physiological temperatures and ability to measure dynamics on the ångström scale. We have recently advanced transition metal FRET (tmFRET) to study allosteric regulation of maltose binding protein and have reported measurements of maltose- dependent distance changes with an accuracy of ∼1.5 Å. When paired with the noncanonical amino acid Acd as a donor, our previous tmFRET acceptors were useful over a working distance of 10 Å to 20 Å. Here, we use cysteine-reactive bipyridyl and phenanthroline compounds as chelators for Fe2+and Ru2+to produce novel tmFRET acceptors to expand the working distance to as long as 50 Å, while preserving our ability to resolve even small maltose-dependent changes in distance. We compare our measured FRET efficiencies to predictions based on models using rotameric ensembles of the donors and acceptors to demonstrate that steady-state measurements of tmFRET with our new probes have unprecedented ability to measure conformational rearrangements under physiological conditions.

STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE

In this work, we expand the working distance of transition metal ion Förster Resonance Energy Transfer (tmFRET) to allow the measurement of donor-acceptor distances from 10 Å to 50 Å. We develop new cysteine-reactive bipyridyl- and phenanthroline-based ligands for Cu2+, Fe2+, and Ru2+and examine their ability to resolve small ligand-dependent distance changes in maltose binding protein. We extend these studies using pulsed electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy to demonstrate the high accuracy of tmFRET for studying protein allostery.
Efficient Prohibitin 2 exposure during mitophagy depends on Voltage-dependent anion-selective channel protein 1
Authors: Roy Moumita , Nandy Sumangal , Marchesan Elena , Banerjee Chayan , Mondal Rupsha , Caicci Federico , Ziviani Elena , Chakraborty Joy
Published: October 2023

Autophagic elimination of depolarized mitochondria (mitophagy) depends on Ubiquitin proteasome complex to expose the inner mitochondrial membrane-resident protein-Prohibitin 2 (PHB2). This uncovering facilitates its interaction with autophagosomal membrane-associated protein LC3. It remains unclear whether PHB2 is uncovered randomly through mitochondrial rupture sites. Prior knowledge and initial screening indicated that Voltage-dependent anion-selective channel protein 1 (VDAC1) might play a role in this process. Throughin vitrobiochemical assays and imaging, we have found that VDAC1-PHB2 interaction increases during mitochondrial depolarization. Subsequently, this interaction enhances the efficiency of PHB2 exposure and mitophagy. To investigate the relevancein vivo, we utilized a Porin (equivalent to VDAC1) knockoutDrosophilaline. Our findings demonstrate that during rotenone-induced mitochondrial stress, Porin is essential for PHB2 exposure, PHB2-LC3 interaction, and mitophagy. This study highlights that VDAC1 predominantly synchronizes efficient PHB2 exposure through mitochondrial rupture sites during mitophagy. These findings may provide insights to understand progressive neurodegeneration.
RELderegulation stands as a primary hit for AID-imprinted B-cells along the germinal center competition
Authors: Prévaud Léa , Vincent-Fabert Christelle , Marchiol Tiffany , Lemasson Quentin , Ouk Catherine , Carrion Claire , Cogné Michel , Feuillard Jean , Faumont Nathalie
Published: October 2023

In diffuse large B-cell lymphomas (DLBCLs), gains and amplifications of the 2p15-16 region, which always encompass theRELgene, are mostly restricted to the germinal center (GC) B- cell DLBCL subtype (GCB-DLBCL) for which c-Rel is the pivotal Rel/NF-κB subunit. WhileRELis also known to play a key role in the GC reaction, its contribution to GCB-DLBCL transformation is still unclear. To understand the role ofRELin the very first steps of GCB transformation,i.ewhen B-cells with deregulatedRELare competing with other B-cells during chronic antigenic stimulation, we have created a dual-color mouse that allows to induceRELin a limited pool of AID- imprinted B-cells after immunization and to differentially stain AID-imprinted B-cells cells that overexpressRELor not. Our results demonstrate that dysregulation ofRELat the GC B-cell stage promotes GC B-cell expansion and favors both class-switch recombination and plasma cell differentiation. Additionally, althoughRELoverexpression was neutral on post-GC memory B-cell differentiation, it did confer a long-term competitive advantage allowing for GC persistence and continuous recirculation ofREL-overexpressing B-cells. Functionally,RELenhanced the protection against apoptosis in the early steps of GCB differentiation.REL- overexpressing B-cells can my occasionally transform into in an aggressive B-cell tumor. Highlighting the role of repeated immune responses, our results confirm the role ofRELin the germinal center reaction and provide evidence supporting the fact that genetic deregulation of c-Rel expression is most likely a primary event in the aggressive transformation of GC B-cells.

Key points

-

RELprovides a long-term competitive advantage allowing for GC B-cell persistence and continuous recirculation of AID-imprinted B-cells

-

AID-imprinted B-cells overexpressingRELcan occasionally transform into aggressive B-cell lymphomas

Explanation of the novelty

By showing in a new dual-color mouse model that dysregulation ofRELin a very limited pool of AID-imprinted B-cells confers a strong long-term competitive advantage in the context of repeated immune responses and may occasionally lead to transformation into an aggressive B- cell lymphoma, we provide for the first time experimental evidence supporting the fact that thatRELis most likely a primary event in the aggressive transformation of germinal center B-cells.
Validation of the Openwater wearable optical system: cerebral hemodynamic monitoring during a breath hold maneuver
Authors: Favilla Christopher G. , Carter Sarah , Hartl Brad , Gitlevich Rebecca , Mullen Michael T. , Yodh Arjun G. , Baker Wesley B. , Konecky Soren
Published: October 2023

Bedside cerebral blood flow (CBF) monitoring has the potential to inform and improve care for acute neurologic diseases, but technical challenges limit the use of existing techniques in clinical practice. Here we validate the Openwater optical system, a novel wearable headset that uses laser speckle contrast to monitor microvascular hemodynamics. We monitored 25 healthy adults with the Openwater system and concurrent transcranial Doppler (TCD) while performing a breath-hold maneuver to increase CBF. Relative blood flow (rBF) was derived from the changes in speckle contrast, and relative blood volume (rBV) was derived from the changes in speckle average intensity. A strong correlation was observed between beat-to-beat optical rBF and TCD-measured cerebral blood flow velocity (CBFv), R=0.79; the slope of the linear fit indicates good agreement, 0.87 (95% CI:0.83-0.92). Beat-to-beat rBV and CBFv were strongly correlated, R=0.72, but as expected the two variables were not proportional; changes in rBV were smaller than CBFv changes, with linear fit slope of 0.18 (95% CI:0.17-0.19). Further, strong agreement was found between rBF and CBFv waveform morphology and related metrics. This firstin vivovalidation of the Openwater optical system highlights its potential as a cerebral hemodynamic monitor, but additional validation is needed in disease states.
Different Combinations of the Metabolic Syndrome Criteria and Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Lind Lars
Published: October 2023

Background

The metabolic syndrome (MetS) has previously been linked to incident cardiovascular disease (CVD). It is however not known if certain combinations of MetS criteria show a higher risk than others.

Methods

We used data from UK biobank in which 388,800 individuals had data on MetS using the five harmonized NCEP criteria. The cohort was followed for a median of 12.6 years. A composite CVD outcome was used (myocardial infarction, ischemic stroke or heart failure).

Results

The risk of incident CVD (n= 22,572) increased in a fairly linear fashion with increasing number of MetS criteria. In the groups showing three MetS criteria, thus fulfilling the definition of MetS, the highest risk was seen in those with the combination of the glucose + waist circumference + HDL criteria (HR 3.90, 95%CI 3.17-4.80). In the group with four criteria, the highest HRs were seen in the groups not including triglyceride or the blood pressure criteria (HR 3.96, 95%CI 3.57-4.59 and HR 3.79, 95%CI 3.13-4.59, respectively). The risk of CVD in those with all five criteria was in the same order (HR 3.65, 95%CI 3.33-4.01). Mendelian randomization indicated a causal role of MetS for coronary heart disease (CHD) and heart failure, but not ischemic stroke, while use of polygenetic risk scores for CHD and ischemic stroke were related to MetS criteria in a similar fashion as observational data.

Conclusion

Certain combinations of risk factors in individuals with the metabolic syndrome criteria showed a higher risk of future CVD than others.
Reproducibility of COVID-era infectious disease models
Authors: Henderson Alec S. , Hickson Roslyn I. , Furlong Morgan , McBryde Emma S. , Meehan Michael T.
Published: October 2023

Infectious disease modelling has been prominent throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, helping to understand the virus’ transmission dynamics and inform response policies. Given their potential importance and translational impact, we evaluated the computational reproducibility of infectious disease modelling articles from the COVID era. We found that only four out of 100 randomly sampled studies released between January 2020 and August 2022 could be computationally reproduced using the resources provided (e.g., code, data, instructions). For the 100 most highly cited articles from the same period we found that only 11 were reproducible. Reflecting on our experience, we discuss common issues affecting computational reproducibility and how these might be addressed.
Molecular dependencies and genomic consequences of a global DNA damage tolerance defect
Authors: de Groot Daniel , Spanjaard Aldo , Shah Ronak , Kreft Maaike , Morris Ben , Lieftink Cor , Catsman Joyce J.I. , Ormel Shirley , Ayidah Matilda , Pilzecker Bas , Buoninfante Olimpia Alessandra , van den Berk Paul C.M. , Beijersbergen Roderick L. , Jacobs Heinz
Published: October 2023

DNA damage tolerance (DDT) enables replication to continue in the presence of fork stalling lesions. To determine the molecular and genomic impact of a global DDT defect, we studiedPcnaK164R/-;Rev1-/-compound mutants. Double mutant (DM) cells displayed increased replication stress, hypersensitivity to genotoxic agents, replication speed, and repriming. A whole genome CRISPR-Cas9 screen revealed a strict reliance of DM cells on the CST complex, where CST promotes fork stability. Whole genome sequencing indicated that this DM DDT defect favors the generation of large, replication-stress inducible deletions of 0.4-4.0kbp, defined as type 3 deletions. Junction break sites of these deletions revealed preferential microhomology preferences of 1-2 base pairs, differing from the smaller type 1 and type 2 deletions. These differential characteristics suggest the existence of molecularly distinct deletion pathways. Type 3 deletions are abundant in human tumors, can dominate the deletion landscape and are associated with DNA damage response status and treatment modality. Our data highlight the essential contribution of the DDT system to genome maintenance and type 3 deletions as mutational signature of replication stress. The unique characteristics of type 3 deletions implicate the existence of a novel deletion pathway in mice and humans that is counteracted by DDT.
Proteomic Analysis Reveals a PLK1-Dependent G2/M Degradation Program and Links PKA-AKAP2 to Cell Cycle Control
Authors: Mouery Ryan D , Hsu Carolyn , Bonacci Thomas , Bolhuis Derek L , Wang Xianxi , Mills Christine A , Toomer E Drew , Canterbury Owen G , Robertson Kevin C , Branigan Timothy B , Brown Nicholas G , Herring Laura E , Emanuele Michael J
Published: October 2023

Targeted protein degradation by the ubiquitin-proteasome system is an essential mechanism regulating cellular division. The kinase PLK1 coordinates protein degradation at the G2/M phase of the cell cycle by promoting the binding of substrates to the E3 ubiquitin ligase SCFβTrCP. However, the magnitude to which PLK1 shapes the mitotic proteome has not been characterized. Combining deep, quantitative proteomics with pharmacologic PLK1 inhibition (PLK1i), we identified more than 200 proteins whose abundances were increased by PLK1i at G2/M. We validate many new PLK1-regulated proteins, including several substrates of the cell cycle E3 SCFCyclinF, demonstrating that PLK1 promotes proteolysis through at least two distinct SCF-family E3 ligases. Further, we found that the protein kinase A anchoring protein AKAP2 is cell cycle regulated and that its mitotic degradation is dependent on the PLK1/βTrCP-signaling axis. Interactome analysis revealed that the strongest interactors of AKAP2 function in signaling networks regulating proliferation, including MAPK, AKT, and Hippo. Altogether, our data demonstrate that PLK1 coordinates a widespread program of protein breakdown at G2/M. We propose that dynamic proteolytic changes mediated by PLK1 integrate proliferative signals with the core cell cycle machinery during cell division. This has potential implications in malignancies where PLK1 is aberrantly regulated.
Identification and characterization of a β-1,4 Galactosidase fromElizabethkingia meningosepticaand its application on living cell surface
Authors: Tong Yongliang , Lu Xinrong , Shen Danfeng , Rao Lin , Zou Lin , Lyu Shaoxian , Hou Linlin , Sun Guiqin , Chen Li
Published: October 2023

The biological function of terminal galactose on glycoprotein is an open field of research. Although progress had being made on enzymes that can remove the terminal galactose on glycoproteins, there is a lack of report on galactosidases that can work directly on living cells. In this study, a unique beta 1,4 galactosidase was isolated fromElizabethkingia meningoseptica(Em). It exhibited favorable stability at various temperatures (4-37℃) and pH (5-8) levels and can remove β-1, 4 linked galactoses directly from glycoproteins. Using Alanine scanning, we found that two acidic residues (Glu-468, and Glu-531) in the predicted active pocket are critical for galactosidase activity. In addition, we also demonstrated that it could cleave galactose residues present on living cell surface. As the enzyme has a potential application for living cell glycan editing, we named it glycan editing galactosidase I or geGalaseI. In summary, our findings lay the groundwork for prospective investigations by presenting a prompt and gentle approach for the removal of galactose moieties from cell surface.
Reading relationally: a proposal for relational-comparative research concerning city/capital of culture events
Authors: Grabher Barbara
Published: October 2023

Purpose

García and Cox (2013) have clarified that there is an urgent need for comparative studies of city/capital of culture (COC) events. With the ambition to foster exchange and learning, knowledge production concerning cultural initiatives requires to think beyond the individual case study of a singular event. Simultaneously, the two scholars observe comparability and context-sensitivity between events as a major issue in these particular canons of research.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing upon the research experience of the project, this article experiments with a novel reading of city/capital of culture events.

Findings

Beyond the singularity of a case study but with attention to context-sensitivities, the article proposes a relational reading practice to study the culture-led event framework. The author illustrates the proposed approach with material collected in ethnographic fieldwork in the cities of Donostia/San Sebastián, European COC 2016, and Hull, UK COC 2017.

Originality/value

By using one case study as a metaphorical pair of glasses framing the investigative perspective on the other, an analytical relationship between two COC events is established, fostering a broader prism of analysis and connected learning.
Choosing invisibility? Exploring service (dis)engagement of women experiencing multiple disadvantage
Authors: Hess Carolin
Published: October 2023

Purpose

The shift in policy discourse towards individualism is affecting service provision and access, which has become increasingly conditioned on individual agency and the “deservingness” of the recipient. Gendered and intersectional experiences of homelessness and excluded populations less likely to be living on the streets remain overlooked and unaddressed. This study thus aims to uncover what drives “invisibility” in services for women experiencing multiple disadvantage and the gendered constraints the women are facing when exiting and navigating multiple disadvantage.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws on in-depth interviews with women who face severe and multiple disadvantage and their support staff. Data is also gathered through survey data and observations with a wide range of frontline service providers, as well as support notes and numerical progress data recorded by one of the service providers.

Findings

Contradicting the common assumption that people act as rational actors in their interaction with services, the author found that women’s decisions to (dis)engage may be blinded by forces of multiple disadvantage and mistrust. These are often developed as a result of systemic and gendered constraints that limit women’s capabilities and exercise of choice. Barriers in service access often amplified the personal barriers they were facing and reinforced women’s decisions to not engage with services.

Research limitations/implications

The author hopes that this paper sheds light on the particular set of barriers women with multiple disadvantage face, which will be vital to reach women who face severe disadvantage and provide more effective policies, care and support.

Originality/value

This study gives voice to a particular hidden population: women with multiple disadvantage. It contributes to existing frameworks on agency and choice by understanding gendered barriers behind service engagement and how services themselves may be contributing to women’s invisibility.
Applying the Goal, Question, Metric method to derive tailored dynamic cyber risk metrics
Authors: Calvo Miguel , Beltrán Marta
Published: October 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to propose a new method to derive custom dynamic cyber risk metrics based on the well-known Goal, Question, Metric (GQM) approach. A framework that complements it and makes it much easier to use has been proposed too. Both, the method and the framework, have been validated within two challenging application domains: continuous risk assessment within a smart farm and risk-based adaptive security to reconfigure a Web application firewall.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors have identified a problem and provided motivation. They have developed their theory and engineered a new method and a framework to complement it. They have demonstrated the proposed method and framework work, validating them in two real use cases.

Findings

The GQM method, often applied within the software quality field, is a good basis for proposing a method to define new tailored cyber risk metrics that meet the requirements of current application domains. A comprehensive framework that formalises possible goals and questions translated to potential measurements can greatly facilitate the use of this method.

Originality/value

The proposed method enables the application of the GQM approach to cyber risk measurement. The proposed framework allows new cyber risk metrics to be inferred by choosing between suggested goals and questions and measuring the relevant elements of probability and impact. The authors’ approach demonstrates to be generic and flexible enough to allow very different organisations with heterogeneous requirements to derive tailored metrics useful for their particular risk management processes.
An adaptive dynamic community detection algorithm based on multi-objective evolutionary clustering
Authors: Wang Wenxue , Li Qingxia , Wei Wenhong
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Community detection of dynamic networks provides more effective information than static network community detection in the real world. The mainstream method for community detection in dynamic networks is evolutionary clustering, which uses temporal smoothness of community structures to connect snapshots of networks in adjacent time intervals. However, the error accumulation issues limit the effectiveness of evolutionary clustering. While the multi-objective evolutionary approach can solve the issue of fixed settings of the two objective function weight parameters in the evolutionary clustering framework, the traditional multi-objective evolutionary approach lacks self-adaptability.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper proposes a community detection algorithm that integrates evolutionary clustering and decomposition-based multi-objective optimization methods. In this approach, a benchmark correction procedure is added to the evolutionary clustering framework to prevent the division results from drifting.

Findings

Experimental results demonstrate the superior accuracy of this method compared to similar algorithms in both real and synthetic dynamic datasets.

Originality/value

To enhance the clustering results, adaptive variances and crossover probabilities are designed based on the relative change amounts of the subproblems decomposed by MOEA/D (A Multiobjective Optimization Evolutionary Algorithm based on Decomposition) to dynamically adjust the focus of different evolutionary stages.
Efficiency-oriented training and development based on service process observation and assessment in the workplace
Authors: Zhou Jinquan , He Wenjin
Published: October 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to establish a service efficiency-oriented framework for training design and evaluation as a pivotal service procedure in the workplace to fill the gap between training and organizational performance in a service context.

Design/methodology/approach

A semi-structured interview was first employed to confirm the primary indicator for training programs and criteria design as the pivotal factor for operational efficiency. An observation experiment was subsequently conducted to reveal that the training program can be redesigned according to the concrete operation effects and influencing factors for operational efficiency in the workplace.

Findings

The proposed service efficiency-oriented training model is suggested to underline and guide the activities for training requirements, training methods, training criteria and training evaluation for the service sector. Training auditing, analyzing and redesigning based on service efficiency could help to integrate service efficiency so that service organizations can readjust their specific training needs and concise the training program in the human resource management practice.

Research limitations/implications

This study only conducted an on-site observational experiment on one of the casinos in Macau. An observational method assessed the conceptual model in the context of table game operations. More quantitative approaches like AI-assisted systems may be employed in the future. The representativeness of the sample is somewhat limited. In addition, the service efficiency-oriented training concept model is an open system that any organization could extend by incorporating more elements in each part that can be developed to meet their human resource management needs. Finally, other service-oriented organizations like airlines and banks can learn from the theoretical model proposed in this article. It is suggested that non-profit organizations would be a better research area.

Practical implications

The finding can provide organizations and practitioners with insights and tools on how to provide and evaluate service efficiency and assess employee performance.

Social implications

The proposed service efficiency-oriented training model provides a theoretical foundation for training and organizational performance for service organizations.

Originality/value

This study is the first to develop a service efficiency-oriented training framework with training needs, methods, criteria and evaluation. A service industry sample was used to verify the framework in the context of casino game pace and dealer training for table games. Suggestions for a combination of management are provided for casino operators to redesign and evaluate the dealer training program for service improvement.
Appraising institutional management of urban water supply in Ghana: the role of the stakeholders
Authors: Aigbavboa Clinton Ohis , Addo Lawrence Yao , Ebekozien Andrew , Thwala Wellington Didibhuku , Arthur-Aidoo Bernard Martins
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Access to clean drinking water is a major encumbrance in developing countries. In Ghana, urban water supply is below internationally recognised standards, especially among the urban poor, sub-urban and rural communities. Stakeholders and institutional inefficiencies may be hindrances facing the Ghanaian water supply process. Therefore, this study aims to appraise the motivational factors and outcome of stakeholders’ engagement and identify the factors that influence effective institutional management of urban water supply in Ghana.

Design/methodology/approach

Sequential exploratory mixed methods were adopted and analysed to proffer answers to the research questions. Nineteen participants and 521 respondents were sampled for the qualitative and quantitative phases.

Findings

Findings reveal that the institutional processes and stakeholder engagement significantly influence the effectiveness of the management of urban water supply in Ghana. Findings identified 35 motivational factors and categorised them into the health of the population, socio-economic, technological and innovation trends, policy reform and adaptive governance. Also, the 22 institutional factors identified were categorised into three groups: regulatory framework, ethics for managing water supply and the culture of managing water supply.

Originality/value

Besides the study addressing the theoretical gap regarding which variables are germane in influencing the effective management of urban water supply, the study may be among the top studies that have appraised the role of stakeholders in the institutional management of urban water supply in Ghana.