bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
H2A.Z deposition at meiotic prophase I underlies homologous recombination and pachytene genome activation during male meiosis
Authors: Sun Shenfei , Jiang Yamei , Jiang Ning , Zhang Qiaoli , Pan Hongjie , Huang Fujing , Zhang Xinna , Guo Yuxuan , You Xiaoyu , Gong Kai , Wei Wei , Liu Hanmin , Song Zhenju , Song Yuanlin , Tang Xiaofang , Yu Miao , Li Runsheng , Lin Xinhua
Published: June 2024

Accurate meiotic progression is important for gamete formation and the generation of genetic diversity. However, little is known about the identity of chromatin regulators that underlie mammalian meiosis in vivo. Here, we identify the multifaceted functions of the chromatin remodeler Znhit1 in governing meiosis. We observe a gradual increase inZnhit1expression during the meiotic prophase. Znhit1 deficiency in spermatocytes results in arrested pachytene development, impaired DNA double-strand break repair, and defective homologous recombination. Single-cell RNA sequencing and transcriptome analysis reveal that Znhit1 loss downregulates the transcription of pachytene genome activation (PGA) genes globally. Chromatin immunoprecipitation data show that Znhit1 is needed for the incorporation of the histone variant H2A.Z into pachytene chromatin. Moreover, we find that H2A.Z cooperates with the transcription factor A-MYB to co-bind DNA elements and control enhancer activity. Our findings provide insights into the regulatory mechanisms governing meiotic progression and highlight Znhit1 as a critical regulator of meiotic recombination and PGA.
A Supervised Machine Learning Approach with Feature Selection for Sex-Specific Biomarker Prediction
Authors: Meyer Luke , Mulder Danielle , Wallace Joshua
Published: June 2024

Biomarkers play a crucial role in various aspects of healthcare, offering valuable insights into disease diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment selection. Recently, machine learning (ML) techniques have emerged as effective tools for uncovering novel biomarkers and improving predictive modelling capabilities. However, bias within ML algorithms, particularly regarding sex-based disparities, remains a concern. In this study, a supervised ML model was developed in order to predict 9 common biomarkers widely used in clinical settings. These biomarkers included triglycerides, body mass index, waist circumference, systolic blood pressure, blood glucose, uric acid, urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio, high-density lipoproteins and albuminuria. During the validation test, it was observed that the ML models successfully predicted values within 5 and 10% error of the actual values. Out of the 121 female individuals tested, the following percentages of predicted values fell within this 10% range: 93% for albuminuria, 86% for waist circumference, 76% for BMI, and the lowest being 64% for systolic blood pressure and blood glucose. For the 119 male individuals tested, the percentages were as follows: 92% for albuminuria, 96% for waist circumference, 91% for BMI, 74% for blood glucose, and 68% for systolic blood pressure. Triglycerides, uric acid, urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio and high-density lipoproteins all predicted lower than 50% for both male and female subgroups. Overall, the male subgroup had higher prediction scores than the female group.

Graphical Abstract
Anticodon Engineered Transfer RNAs (ACE-tRNAs) are a Platform Technology for Suppressing Nonsense Mutations
Authors: Ko Wooree , Porter Joseph J. , Spelier Sacha , Couch Tyler , van der Windt Isabelle , Bhatt Priyanka , Coote Kevin , Mense Martin , Beekman Jeffrey M. , Lueck John D.
Published: June 2024

Nonsense mutations arise from single nucleotide substitutions that result in premature termination codons (PTCs). PTCs result in little to no full-length protein production and loss of mRNA expression through the nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD) pathway. We demonstrate that anticodon engineered (ACE-) tRNAs efficiently suppress the most prevalent cystic fibrosis (CF) causing PTCs, promoting significant rescue of endogenous cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) transcript abundance and channel function in different model systems. We demonstrate that our best-performing ACE-tRNA, that decodes all UGA PTCs to a leucine amino acid, markedly rescues CFTR channel function from the most prevalent CF causing PTCs that arise from non-leucine encoding codons. Using this single ACE-tRNA variant, we demonstrate significant rescue of CFTR channel function in an immortalized airway cell line and two different primary CF patient-derived intestinal cell models with CFTR nonsense mutations. Thus, ACE-tRNAs have promise as a platform therapeutic for CF and other nonsense-associated diseases.
A mutation in vesicular acetylcholine transporter increases tubulin acetylation compromising axonal transport
Authors: Kuo Cheng-Shan , Wang Meng-Chieh , Bayansan Odvogmed , Barmaver Syed Nooruzuha , Bhan Prerana , Wagner Oliver Ingvar
Published: June 2024

Kinesin-3 UNC-104(KIF1A) is the major transporter of synaptic vesicles and genetic defects in this motor are linked to Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease and hereditary spastic paraplegia. In a candidate screen for genes causing neurotransmission defects inC. elegansand simultaneously affecting post-translational modification of tubulin, we identified alleleunc-17(e245) significantly elevating tubulin acetylation in neurons. UNC-17 encodes for a VAChT (vesicle acetylcholine transporter) and its human ortholog is implicated in Alzheimer’s disease. Elevated tubulin acetylation compromises motility of UNC-104 as well its cargo RAB-3. Motility of UNC-104 improves when knocking down alpha-tubulin acetyltransferase MEC-17(ATAT1) inunc-17(e245) strains. Conversely, motility of UNC-104 is negatively affected when overexpressing MEC-17 in wild type animals. Critically, transport defects are comparable when exposing nematodes to drugs that inhibit ACh neurotrans-mission. Both UNC-104 and UNC-17 as well as UNC-104 and MEC-17 colocalize in neurons and bimolecular fluorescence complementation assays (BiFC) reveal physicalin situinteractions between UNC-104/UNC-17, UNC-104/MEC-17 and UNC-17/MEC-17. We propose a model in which reduced expression of UNC-17 frees MEC-17 from the UNC-104/UNC-17 complex. This leads to increased tubulin acetylation, which in turn negatively affects UNC-104 motility.

Graphical abstract
mTORC2-mediated cell-cell interaction promote BMP4-induced WNT activation and mesoderm differentiation
Authors: Tong Li , Batool Faiza , Chiu Yueh-Ho , Zhou Yudong , Ma Xiaolun , Atanur Santosh , Cui Wei
Published: June 2024

The mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 2 (mTORC2) is essential for embryonic development but the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. Here we show that disruption of mTORC2 in human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) considerably alters the balance of Rho/Rac signaling and reduces cell adhesion. Although these changes have no clear effect on hESC self-renewal and the expression of pluripotent markers, they significantly avert BMP-induced activation of canonical WNT genes, leading to impaired mesendoderm differentiation. Direct activation of downstream WNT pathway by inhibiting GSK3 dramatically improves mesendoderm differentiation in mTORC2-deficient hESCs. Our study uncovers a new mechanism by which mTORC2 regulates cell fate determination and, more importantly, link the intercellular contacts with the activation of the WNT genes.
Conformal Graphs as Twisted Partition Functions
Authors: Karydas Manthos , Li Songyuan , Petkou Anastasios C. , Vilatte Matthieu
Published: June 2024

We show that a class of L-loop conformal ladder graphs are intimately related to twisted partition functions of free massive complex scalars in d=2L+1 dimensions. The graphs arise as four-point functions in certain two- and four-dimensional conformal fishnet models. The twisted thermal two-point function of the scalars becomes a generator of conformal ladder graphs for all loops. We argue that this correspondence is seeded by a system of two decoupled harmonic oscillators twisted by an imaginary chemical potential. We find a number of algebraic and differential relations among the conformal graphs that mirror the underlying free dynamics.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
The early bird catches the flywheel: pedagogical components of entrepreneurship education in American higher education institutions
Authors: Wang Chang , Shi Yongchuan , Jiang Shihao
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the core elements and essential characteristics of entrepreneurship pedagogy in American higher education institutions, outlining a model from multiple participants’ perspectives and offering a blueprint for teaching entrepreneurship in higher education settings.

Design/methodology/approach

Structured interviews were conducted with 26 participants involved in entrepreneurship education in American higher education institutions, including teaching managers, teachers and students. The interview data were transformed into documentary materials and analyzed through grounded theory.

Findings

The characteristics of the core elements of entrepreneurship education pedagogy in American higher education institutions include unified and distinctive teaching content, diverse and practical teaching methods, disciplinary and interdisciplinary curriculum system, professional and inclusive teaching team, procedural and systematic teaching evaluation. More profoundly, entrepreneurship pedagogy in American universities can be conceptualized as a flywheel model, propelled by the significant autonomy of teachers. Teacher autonomy empowers dynamic interactions among teaching content, teaching method, curriculum development and teaching evaluation, facilitating ongoing innovation in American entrepreneurship pedagogy like a rapidly forward-rolling wheel.

Originality/value

This study contributes to a better understanding of the pedagogy of American entrepreneurship education as a mature discipline, which may assist educators in teaching entrepreneurship at the college level. Moreover, a flywheel model of entrepreneurship pedagogy is offered, emphasizing teacher autonomy as a vital but often overlooked role in the development of entrepreneurship education.
Unpacking patient engagement in remote consultation
Authors: Liu Zhening , Brandon-Jones Alistair , Vasilakis Christos
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine patient engagement in remote consultation services, an increasingly important issue facing Healthcare Operations Management (HOM) given the significant expansion in this and other forms of telehealth worldwide over the last decade. We use our analysis of the literature to develop a comprehensive framework that incorporates the patient journey, multidimensionality, antecedents and consequences, interventions and improvement options, as well as the cyclic nature of patient engagement. We also propose measures suitable for empirical assessment of different aspects of our framework.

Design/methodology/approach

We undertook a comprehensive review of the extant literature using a systematic review approach. We identified and analysed 63 articles published in peer-reviewed scientific journals between 2003 and 2022.

Findings

We conceptualise patient engagement with remote consultation across three key aspects: dimensions, process, and the antecedents and consequences of engagement. We identify nine contextual categories that influence such engagement. We propose several possible metrics for measuring patient engagement during three stages (before service, at/during service and after service) of remote consultation, as well as interventions and possible options for improving patient engagement therein.

Originality/value

The primary contribution of our research is the development of a comprehensive framework for patient engagement in remote consultation that draws on insights from literature in several disciplines. In addition, we have linked the three dimensions of engagement with the clinical process to create a structure for future engagement assessment. Furthermore, we have identified impact factors and outcomes of engagement in remote consultation by understanding which can help to improve levels of adoption, application and satisfaction, and reduce healthcare inequality. Finally, we have adopted a “cyclic” perspective and identified potential interventions that can be combined to further improve patient engagement in remote consultation.
The effect of audience involvement on previsit behavioral intentions: the mediating role of place attachment
Authors: Shi Dongqi , Soonsan Nimit , Phakdee-Auksorn Panuwat
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the determinants of behavioral intentions during the previsit stage by investigating the influence of audience involvement with the audiovisual product and the mediating role played by place attachment.

Design/methodology/approach

Structural equation modeling was employed to verify the hypothesized relationships using the AMOS 24.0 program to assess the proposed model. A total of 564 young Chinese audiences who had watched the Thai television (TV) series “I Told Sunset About You” but had not previously visited Phuket, Thailand, were collected using the online survey as participants.

Findings

The findings indicate that audience involvement has a significant positive effect on place attachment and behavioral intentions during the previsit stage. Place attachment significantly influences behavioral intentions. Moreover, the result suggests that place attachment significantly mediates the relationship between audience involvement and behavioral intentions.

Research limitations/implications

This study contributes to film tourism research by revealing the crucial role of audience involvement in enhancing place attachment and fostering behavioral intentions toward depicted destinations among potential tourists.

Practical implications

This study suggests that destination marketers should be aware of the soft power of films and TV series to promote destination and attract prospective tourists.

Originality/value

This study provides a distinctive perspective on the interrelationships between audience involvement, place attachment, and previsit behavioral intentions. Additionally, it sheds light on the underlying mechanisms influencing potential tourists' behaviors in the context of film tourism.
Consumers’ level of patronage of halal business in Nigeria: Do religiosity and advertising matter?
Authors: Abdullahi Shafiu Ibrahim Ibrahim
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to measure the effects of religiosity and advertising on consumers’ patronage of halal industry in Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach

Data for the study was collected using questionnaire survey. The collected data was analyzed using Tobit and ordered Logit models.

Findings

The findings of the work show that while the coefficient of religiosity is positive, but it is statistically insignificant, while advertising has a moderate negative effect on consumers’ patronage of halal business in Nigeria.

Practical implications

The study has implication on the use of advertising by halal business. It shows the limit of using advertisement to build brand; advertising shall be used together with other measures such as corporate social responsibility and other charitable undertakings.

Originality/value

To the best of the author’s knowledge, this work is the first of its kind that empirically tests the effect of advertising on patronage of halal business.
The optimal operation decision of gas station considering charging pile installation – conflict and coordination
Authors: Jiang Mingze , Jiang Minghui , Xue Jiaxin , Zhan Wentao , Liu Yuntao
Published: June 2024

Purpose

In the construction of charging piles, traditional gas stations possess significant advantages in terms of regional and financial resources. The transformation of gas stations into “refueling+charging” integrated gas stations relies on charging pile manufacturers and government, involving coordination issues with them. This paper aims to propose a joint coordination contract based on the principles of cost-sharing and revenue-sharing. The objective is to achieve systemic coordination among integrated gas stations, charging pile manufacturers, and the government, optimizing the planning of the quantity of charging piles and charging prices.

Design/methodology/approach

We have constructed an operational system model based on the Stackelberg game between charging pile manufacturers, integrated gas stations, and government. We have analyzed the optimal quantity of charging piles and charging prices under the impact of government subsidy policies in both decentralized and centralized operation scenarios. Additionally, we have proposed a joint coordination contract based on cost-sharing and revenue-sharing to coordinate this tripartite operational system.

Findings

The study reveals that, under simple cooperative contracts, the optimal decision does not yield maximum profits for the operational system due to the “double-marginal effect”. However, under the impact of the joint coordination contract, which combines cost-sharing and revenue-sharing as proposed in this paper, gas stations will consider the charging pile manufacturer’s costs and government subsidies when determining the optimal quantity and price. This not only achieves system coordination but also results in Pareto improvement in the benefits of all system members by adjusting contract parameters.

Originality/value

The value of this research lies in its insights into operational strategies for the construction of charging piles for electric vehicles. By analyzing optimal decisions under different contract arrangements, the study provides guidance to relevant stakeholders, enabling the operational system to achieve greater efficiency and coordination and realize more extensive Pareto improvements. Furthermore, it extends the application of coordination contract theory in the context of charging pile construction and operations.
“Difficulty mentioning the M word”: Perceptions of a woman disclosing negative menopause symptoms in the workplace
Authors: Daly Kara Lee , Pike Gemma , Clarke Victoria , Beck Vanessa
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This qualitative study aims to explore general perceptions of a woman experiencing negative menopausal symptoms in the workplace. It examines the socio-cultural understandings informing the responses of a mixed participant group, including those unlikely to have experienced menopause, to a hypothetical scenario involving a woman disclosing negative menopausal symptoms in the workplace – to either a female or male manager.

Design/methodology/approach

Using an innovative hybrid vignette-story completion (SC) technique, data were generated from 48 employees of a single UK-based organisation. Participants were presented with a vignette featuring a protagonist (Julie) experiencing negative menopausal symptoms, asked questions about their imaginings of Julie and how she might be perceived by others in the workplace, then presented with a story stem and asked to continue the story in the third person. The stem depicted Julie preparing to tell her manager about her symptoms and featured either a male or female manager, with one variation randomly presented to each participant. Responses were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Findings

This study reports four themes: (1) the burden of menopause; (2) managing menopause at work; (3) menopause as not belonging in the workplace; and (4) menopause as unlocking new life potential? Limitations and directions for future research are discussed.

Originality/value

Using the innovative hybrid vignette-SC technique, this study contributes to the current discourse on menopause in the workplace by providing insight into how menopausal employees experiencing negative symptoms are perceived by others and the social understandings that shape these perceptions.
Tackling addictive behaviors through memory suppression: A scoping review and perspective
Authors: de Almeida‐Antunes Natália Alexandra , Sampaio Adriana Conceição Soares , Crego Manuel Alberto Barreiro , López‐Caneda Eduardo Guillermo
Published: June 2024

Forgetting is often viewed as a human frailty. However, over the years, it has been considered an adaptive process that allows people to avoid retrieval of undesirable memories, preventing them from suffering and discomfort. Evidence shows that the ability to suppress memories is affected by several psychopathological conditions characterized by persistent unwanted thoughts, including anxiety and posttraumatic stress disorders. Nevertheless, memory suppression (MS) mechanisms in addiction—a clinical condition characterized by recurrent drug‐related thoughts that contribute to repeated drug use—have received little attention so far. Addiction theories reveal that drugs change behavior by working on memory systems, particularly on declarative memory, which is related to the retrieval and encoding of drug‐related memories. In this review, the main behavioral and neurofunctional findings concerning the Think/No‐Think task—an adaptation of the classical Go/No‐Go tasks typically used to evaluate the suppression of motor response—are presented. We then show how the memory system can be involved in the craving or anticipation/preoccupation stage of the addiction cycle. Subsequently, the study of MS in the context of addictive behaviors is highlighted as a promising approach for gaining knowledge about the mechanisms contributing to the continuation of addiction. Finally, we discuss how interventions aiming to strengthen this ability could impact the anticipation/preoccupation stage by (i) reducing the accessibility of drug‐related memories, (ii) decreasing craving and attention toward drug‐related stimuli, and (iii) improving overall inhibition abilities. In conclusion, this review aims to illustrate how the study of MS may be a valuable approach to enhance our understanding of substance use disorders by unveiling the underlying cognitive and neural mechanisms involved, which could have important implications for addiction treatment.
Homozygous deleterious variants in the C‐terminal of TDRD5 impair spermiogenesis, causing severe oligoasthenoteratozoospermia in humans
Authors: Guo Rui , Ding Biao , Hu Kaiqin , Wang Kai , Tang Dongdong , Wang Xuegu , Sun Junpei , Li KuoKuo , Cheng Huiru , Xu Chuan , Sun Miao , Lu Likui , Liu Mingxi , Cao Yunxia , Yang Xiaoyu , He Xiaojin
Published: June 2024

Background

PiRNA pathway factors, including evolutionarily conserved Tudor domain‐containing proteins, play crucial roles in suppressing transposons and regulating post‐meiotic gene expression. TDRD5 is essential for retrotransposon silencing and pachytene piRNA biogenesis; however, a causal link between TDRD5 variants and human infertility has not yet been established.

Objective

To identify the likely pathogenic variants of TDRD5 in infertile men, characterised by azoospermia or severe oligozoospermia.

Material and methods

Potential candidate variants were identified and confirmed using whole‐exome and Sanger sequencing. Haematoxylin and eosin staining, immunofluorescence, and ultrastructural analyses were performed to investigate the structural and functional abnormalities of spermatozoa. The pathogenicity of the identified TDRD5 variants was verified using in vitro experiments. Functional effects of the C‐terminal nonsense variant were assessed via histology, immunofluorescence staining, and small‐RNA sequencing. Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) was also performed to evaluate the efficacy of the clinical treatment.

Results

We identified a homozygous missense variant (c.3043G > A, p.A1015T) and a homozygous nonsense variant (c.2293G > T, p.E765*) of TDRD5 in two unrelated infertile men. Both patients exhibited severe oligoasthenoteratozoospermia, characterised by the presence of spermatozoa with multiple heads and/or flagella, as well as acrosomal hypoplasia. In vitro experiments revealed that the p.A1015T variant caused a diffuse distribution of TDRD5 granules, whereas the p.E765* variant led to the production of a C‐terminal truncated protein with nuclear localisation, instead of the typical cytoplasmic localisation observed for the wild‐type protein. Functional investigations also revealed that truncation of the C‐terminal region of TDRD5 could potentially lead to a decline in the expression levels of intermitochondrial cement and chromatoid body components, such as MIWI (PIWIL1) and UPF1, and a slight decrease in the abundance of pachytene piRNA, ultimately resulting in compromised spermiogenesis. ICSI may be an effective treatment for these deficiencies.

Discussion and conclusion

This study implicates TDRD5 as a novel candidate gene in the pathogenesis of human male infertility, emphasising the contribution of piRNA pathway genes to male infertility. In addition, our data suggest that ICSI could be a promising treatment for infertile men harbouring TDRD5 variants.
Review article: Hepatic steatosis and its associations with acute and chronic liver diseases
Authors: Koenig Aaron B. , Tan Albert , Abdelaal Hala , Monge Fanny , Younossi Zobair M. , Goodman Zachary D.
Published: June 2024

Background

Hepatic steatosis is a common finding in liver histopathology and the hallmark of metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), formerly known as non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), whose global prevalence is rising.

Aims

To review the histopathology of hepatic steatosis and its mechanisms of development and to identify common and rare disease associations.

Methods

We reviewed literature on the basic science of lipid droplet (LD) biology and clinical research on acute and chronic liver diseases associated with hepatic steatosis using the PubMed database.

Results

A variety of genetic and environmental factors contribute to the development of chronic hepatic steatosis or steatotic liver disease, which typically appears macrovesicular. Microvesicular steatosis is associated with acute mitochondrial dysfunction and liver failure. Fat metabolic processes in hepatocytes whose dysregulation leads to the development of steatosis include secretion of lipoprotein particles, uptake of remnant lipoprotein particles or free fatty acids from blood, de novo lipogenesis, oxidation of fatty acids, lipolysis and lipophagy. Hepatic insulin resistance is a key feature of MASLD. Seipin is a polyfunctional protein that facilitates LD biogenesis. Assembly of hepatitis C virus takes place on LD surfaces. LDs make important, functional contact with the endoplasmic reticulum and other organelles.

Conclusions

Diverse liver pathologies are associated with hepatic steatosis, with MASLD being the most important contributor. The biogenesis and dynamics of LDs in hepatocytes are complex and warrant further investigation. Organellar interfaces permit co‐regulation of lipid metabolism to match generation of potentially toxic lipid species with their LD depot storage.
Editorial: Sonographic assessment of colonic content—A new tool for constipation?
Authors: Maconi Giovanni , Bassotti Gabrio
Published: June 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Mathias et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18029 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18109
Pharmacokinetics of single‐dose rivaroxaban under fed state in obese vs. non‐obese subjects: An open‐label controlled clinical trial (RIVOBESE‐PK)
Authors: Alalawneh Majdoleen , Awaisu Ahmed , Abdallah Ibtihal , Elewa Hazem , Danjuma Mohammed , Matar Kamal M. , ElKashlan Akram M. , Elshayep Yasser , Ibrahim Fathy , Rachid Ousama
Published: June 2024

The evidence of rivaroxaban's pharmacokinetics in obese compared with non‐obese populations remains inconclusive. We aimed to compare the pharmacokinetic profile of rivaroxaban between obese and non‐obese populations under fed state. Participants who met the study's eligibility criteria were assigned into one of two groups: obese (body mass index ≥35 kg/m2) or non‐obese (body mass index 18.5–24.9 kg/m2). A single dose of rivaroxaban 20 mg was orally administered to each participant. Nine blood samples over 48 h, and multiple urine samples over 18 h were collected and analyzed for rivaroxaban concentration using ultra‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass detector. Pharmacokinetic parameters were determined using WinNonlin software. Thirty‐six participants were recruited into the study. No significant changes were observed between obese and non‐obese participants in peak plasma concentration, time to reach peak plasma concentration, area under the plasma concentration–time curve over 48 h or to infinity, elimination rate constant, half‐life, apparent volume of distribution, apparent clearance, and fraction of drug excreted unchanged in urine over 18 h. Rivaroxaban's exposure was similar between the obese and non‐obese subjects, and there were no significant differences in other pharmacokinetic parameters between the two groups. These results suggest that dose adjustment for rivaroxaban is probably unwarranted in the obese population.
Effects of resistance training on muscle strength in adults with haemophilia: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Núñez‐Cortés Rodrigo , Pérez‐Alenda Sofía , Calatayud Joaquín , Soto Verónica , Pinto Ronei S. , Andersen Lars Louis , Cruz‐Montecinos Carlos
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Although resistance training is frequently prescribed for people with haemophilia (PWH), no previous meta‐analyses have quantified the effect of this intervention on muscle strength, nor the implications of the intervention's modality and duration.

Aim

(1) To determine the effects of resistance training on muscle strength in adults with haemophilia; (2) To determine the most effective duration and modality among the exercise protocols.

Methods

A systematic search from inception until 28 November 2023 was conducted in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, CENTRAL and CINAHL databases. We included randomised controlled trials or before‐after studies that involved resistance training without other physiotherapy co‐interventions. Study selection, data extraction and risk of bias assessment were independently performed by two reviewers. Disagreements were resolved in consultation with a third author. The level of evidence was determined according to the GRADE methodology.

Results

Seven studies were included. Measurements of knee extensor strength and elbow extensor strength were included in the meta‐analysis. Subgroup analysis showed significant effects for both elastic resistance protocols (SMD: 0.54; 95% CI: 0.02–1.07) and conventional training (isometric and weight‐based equipment) (SMD: 0.88; 95% CI: 0.50–1.25), demonstrating small and moderate effect sizes respectively. Additionally, both protocols of duration 5–7 weeks (SMD: 1.16, 95% CI: 0.63–1.69) as well as those of duration ≥8 weeks (SMD: 0.57, 95% CI: 0.20–0.94) showed a significant difference.

Conclusion

Resistance training is effective in improving muscle strength of the knee and elbow extensors in PWH. Both elastic resistance and conventional training show benefits.
What aspects of health and wellbeing are most important to parent carers of children with disabilities?
Authors: McGlinchey Caomhan , Harniess Phillip , Borek Aleksandra J. , Garrood Alice , McDonald Annabel , Boyle Fleur , Logan Stuart , Morris Christopher
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Parent carers of children with special educational needs or disabilities are at risk of poorer health and wellbeing outcomes because of the distinct and challenging circumstances they face. Evaluations of interventions promoting the health of parent carers should focus on measuring the aspects of health and wellbeing which are most relevant to this group. As part of a programme of research on parent carer‐focused interventions, this study aimed to understand which aspects of health and wellbeing are perceived by parent carers as most meaningful and important.

Methods

A qualitative study using semistructured online interviews was conducted. A purposive sample of parent carers was interviewed about relevant health and wellbeing outcomes. Transcripts were analysed thematically.

Results

Thirty parent carers were interviewed, 19 of whom had experienced a health‐promoting intervention, either as participants (n = 14) or facilitators (n = 5). Three main themes were identified: ‘self, identity and beliefs’; ‘social connections and support’ and ‘health‐promoting practices and outcomes.’ Each theme encompassed the challenges participants faced, and the changes that helped them overcome these challenges. ‘Self‐identity’ challenges focused on the overwhelming nature of the parental care role and the emotional impact of this. Changes were brought about by developing a positive mindset, increasing confidence, and reconnecting with aspects of their identity which were important to them before they became parent carers. Challenges related to ‘social connections’ reflected parent carers' isolation. Change was brought about through increased peer support and peer interactions. Parent carers experienced challenges in terms of ‘health‐promoting activities’ because they lacked free time and experienced poor physical health. Changes were brought about by engagement in health‐promoting activities of various kinds.

Conclusion

Parent carers view health and wellbeing in terms of overcoming the common challenges they face as a group. These challenges reflect the ways in which their physiological and psychological needs are often unmet. Researchers interested in measuring parent carer health and wellbeing should consider the specific challenges this group face, as well as theoretical frameworks which can make sense of these challenges, such as self‐determination theory.

Patient or Public Contribution

Our team carries out patient and public involvement (PPI) through a Family Faculty group facilitated by a Family Involvement Co‐ordinator (A. McD.) who is herself a parent carer. A study‐specific PPI working group was established which included members of the Family Faculty. The PPI group advised on various aspects of the research as reported in the paper. The manuscript was co‐authored by the team's Family Involvement Co‐ordinator (A. McD.).
Clinical spectrum of nasal involvement in cutaneous leishmaniasis
Authors: An İsa , Doni Nebiye Yentur
Published: June 2024

Background

The clinical appearance of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) lesions located in the nasal area can be confused with many inflammatory or tumoral diseases. In this study, we aimed to determine the frequency of nasal involvement and the morphological variants of CL lesions located in the nasal region.

Methods

In this retrospective study, we included patients who presented to our Skin and Venereal Diseases Clinic in the province of Şanlıurfa, located in the Southeastern Anatolia region of Turkey between September 2022 and October 2023, and were diagnosed with CL with nasal involvement. From the records of CL patients with nasal involvement in our clinic, we evaluated the clinical (lesion location, lesion type, lesion diameter, lesion duration, treatment) and demographic characteristics (age, gender).

Results

Of the patients (n = 278) diagnosed with CL using microscopic examination, 34 had nasal involvement, and the nasal involvement rate was 12.2%. Nineteen (55.8%) of the patients with nasal involvement were male, and 15 (44.2%) were female. Acute CL was detected in 28 patients (16 patients with dry‐type lesions, 12 patients with wet‐type lesions), and chronic CL was detected in six patients (four patients with lupoid and two patients with recidivant type lesions). According to the frequency distribution of clinical appearance, the most common lesions were eczema‐like lesions, erysipeloid‐type lesions, rhinophyma‐like lesions, and lymphoma‐like lesions.

Conclusion

Physicians working in CL‐endemic regions should strictly consider CL in the differential diagnosis of nasal lesions. Early diagnosis and treatment of CL might prevent possible scarring and mucosal spread.
Accuracy of virtual articulation in maximal intercuspal position in direct and indirect digital workflows for fixed partial denture fabrication
Authors: Essam Yousra , El Kateb Mohammed , Morsy Noha
Published: June 2024

Purpose

To assess the accuracy of virtual articulation in direct digital workflow (DDW) and indirect digital workflow (IDW) in arches prepared for fixed partial dentures (FPDs).

Materials and Methods

Five pairs of master models were used in this study representing different clinical scenarios of full dentate (FD), and prepared arches for fixed partial dentures as follows: FD group, short span posterior (SSP group), long span posterior (LSP group), short span anterior (SSA group), and long span anterior (LSA). Fourteen pairs of interarch reference points were added to each set of master models to measure linear interarch distance with a caliper (reference measurements). The direct digital workflow included digital scans and virtual articulation with buccal scan images using an intraoral scanner. The indirect digital workflow included conventional polyvinylsiloxane impressions and bites followed by pouring, mounting, and scanning the stone models in a laboratory scanner. The scanned stone models were virtually articulated with buccal scanning in the laboratory scanner. Digital linear interarch measurements on all virtually‐articulated models were compared with reference measurements. The absolute mean differences in linear interarch distances were calculated. The Mann‐Whitney test was used for statistical analysis (α = .05).

Results

The direct digital workflow produced significantly less linear interarch deviations in the virtually articulated models compared to the indirect digital workflow for all study groups (P < .05). However, the direct digital workflow had significantly less accuracy for virtual articulation in long span posterior, long span anterior, and short span anterior groups compared to the full dentate group. 

Conclusions

Both workflows produced virtually‐articulated models with acceptable accuracy. However, the direct digital workflow had significantly better accuracy in all assessed clinical scenarios.
Barriers to participation in clinical trials of rural older adult cancer survivors: A qualitative study
Authors: Arana‐Chicas Evelyn , Prisco Laura M. Hincapie , Sharma Saloni , Stauffer Fiona , Dauphin Serge , Ban‐Hoefen Makiko , Navarette Jaime , Zittel Jason , Cupertino Ana Paula , Magnuson Allison , Mustian Karen M. , Mohile Supriya G.
Published: June 2024

Background

Currently, 64% of cancer survivors are aged 65+. Older cancer survivors have unique complications after chemotherapy and are often excluded from cancer clinical trials. Although there is research on barriers to clinical trial participation of older adult cancer survivors, to date no research has explored barriers to clinical trial participation unique to rural older adult cancer survivors.

Methods

This study is a secondary qualitative analysis from a study exploring survivorship challenges of rural older adults. Eligible participants were rural residents over age 65 who have completed curative‐intent chemotherapy in the past 12 months. Participants (n = 27) completed open‐ended semi‐structured interviews that included questions on barriers to clinical trial participation. Transcripts were coded independently by two coders using thematic analysis. We have adhered to the standards for reporting qualitative research.

Findings

Participants reported a variety of barriers that included limited knowledge and fear about clinical trials, transportation challenges, their physicians not informing them of clinical trials, and thinking they are too old to participate in clinical trials. However, participants also reported facilitators to participating in clinical trials, including acknowledging benefits to their own health and society, and understanding the importance of clinical trials.

Conclusion

Rural older cancer survivors face numerous interpersonal, intrapersonal, and organizational barriers to clinical trial participation. Aging‐ and location‐sensitive interventions that focus on patients, their caregivers, and health care providers may lead to improved participation of rural older adult survivors into clinical trials.
The economic effects of winning coalition size on the aid‐growth nexus
Authors: Choi Yunhee , Heo Uk
Published: June 2024

Objective

Despite a plethora of studies on the relationship between foreign aid and economic growth of the recipient countries, there is no consensus. We argue that the size of the winning coalition dictates the decision on how the aid capital is used because the top priority of national leaders is staying in power. To this end, we investigate how the size of the winning coalition affects the relationship between foreign aid and economic growth.

Methods

To empirically test the effects of the size of the winning coalition on the aid‐economic nexus, we test 82 developing countries from 1960 to 2010. To address the methodological issues including heteroskedasticity, autocorrelation, overdetermination, and endogeneity, we employed a two‐step generalized method of moments estimation technique.

Results

Our analysis reveals that the size of the winning coalition affects how the aid capital is used, which in turn significantly affects economic growth. The larger the winning coalition, the better economic growth.

Conclusion

The size of the winning coalition significantly affects the economic effects of foreign aid on the recipient country's economic growth. In terms of policy implications, international donors may specify how the aid capital is allocated to improve the recipient country's economic infrastructure.
Low‐cost cold porcelain anatomical models: An affordable complementary teaching tool
Authors: dos Santos Lara Gonçalves , Casari Julia Ravazzi , Gonsalves Daniel Gregório , Neto Wilson Falco , Rissi Renato
Published: June 2024

Background

Human cadavers are an important component of anatomy education; however, they have limitations. In this scenario, alternative artificial models emerge to complement teaching and enable learning in environments with scarce resources. The following study aims to demonstrate the elaboration of handmade cold porcelain models and their acceptance by medical students in a Brazilian university.

Approach

A cross‐sectional study was carried out with 70 first‐year medical students using quantitative and qualitative analysis. The students' evaluation was analysed through an online questionnaire with a Likert scale and an open‐ended question. The present study was approved by the local Research Ethics Committee. Five models were produced with cold porcelain and resin.

Evaluation

Qualitative evaluation highlighted the ease and practicality of the models. Students agree with the idea that the use of cadavers and handmade anatomical pieces contribute to their learning, that the handmade models are very similar to the human body, and they strongly agree that the use of both made it easier to understand the content. However, they also see the models as complementary materials, disagreeing with the idea that they are the best or the only ways to teach. In the word cloud, the words “unreal” and “complement” are often highlighted converging to the idea that was also observed in the quantitative analysis that handmade models are a complementary teaching tool.

Implications

Cold porcelain handmade models enable the democratisation of anatomy teaching; hence, they are low‐cost, easy to access, and allow the reproducibility of anatomical structures by each student. Anatomical models that emerge, such as handmade models, are an important complement to anatomy education and a solution for places with scarce resources.
Bayliss Starling Prize Lecture 2023: Neuropeptide‐Y being ‘unsympathetic’ to the broken hearted
Authors: Bussmann Benjamin , Ayagama Thamali , Liu Kun , Li Dan , Herring Neil
Published: June 2024

William Bayliss and Ernest Starling are not only famous as pioneers in cardiovascular physiology, but also responsible for the discovery of the first hormone (from the Greek ‘excite or arouse’), the intestinal signalling molecule and neuropeptide secretin in 1902. Our research group focuses on neuropeptides and neuromodulators that influence cardiovascular autonomic control as potential biomarkers in disease and tractable targets for therapeutic intervention. Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and chronic heart failure (CHF) result in high levels of cardiac sympathetic stimulation, which is a poor prognostic indicator. Although beta‐blockers improve mortality in these conditions by preventing the action of the neurotransmitter noradrenaline, a substantial residual risk remains. Recently, we have identified the sympathetic co‐transmitter neuropeptide‐Y (NPY) as being released during AMI, leading to larger infarcts and life‐threatening arrhythmia in both animal models and patients. Here, we discuss recently published data demonstrating that peripheral venous NPY levels are associated with heart failure hospitalisation and mortality after AMI, and all cause cardiovascular mortality in CHF, even when adjusting for known risk factors (including brain natriuretic peptide). We have investigated the mechanistic basis for these observations in human and rat stellate ganglia and cardiac tissue, manipulating NPY neurochemistry at the same time as using state‐of‐the‐art imaging techniques, to establish the receptor pathways responsible for NPY signalling. We propose NPY as a new mechanistic biomarker in AMI and CHF patients and aim to determine whether specific NPY receptor blockers can prevent arrhythmia and attenuate the development of heart failure.

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Transformation from dendritic to triangular growth of WS2 via NaCl assisted low-pressure chemical vapor deposition
Authors: Pokhrel Himal , Duncan Joseph Anthony , Krause Bryson , Hoang Thang Ba , Pollard Shawn David
Published: June 2024

Tungsten disulfide (WS2) is a promising two-dimensional material owing to its remarkable optical, electronic, and electrocatalytic behavior. However, morphology of this material varies significantly with growth conditions. In this work, we use salt-assisted low-pressure chemical vapor deposition (LP-CVD) to grow WS2 crystals of a few layers reaching over 50 μm in size on SiO2/Si substrates. We observe a transition from large, dendritic to triangular growth by systematically varying the amount of the NaCl promotor material as well as the presence of intermediate Wx+ states for low NaCl amounts. The transition from dendritic to triangular growth is discussed in the context of diffusion limited aggregation, with the transformation likely being the result of reduced formation energy, owing to increasing concentrations of transition metal oxyhalides for given precursor quantities. These results help to clarify the role of effects of the NaCl precursor in salt-assisted LP-CVD of WS2 and provide a new means to tune the morphology of this material.