bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nitrogen starvation leads to TOR kinase-mediated downregulation of fatty acid synthesis in the algaeChlorella sorokinianaandChlamydomonas reinhardtii
Authors: Vijayan Jithesh , Alvarez Sophie , Naldrett Michael J , Maliva Amanda , Wase Nishikant , Riekhof Wayne R.
Published: August 2023

The accumulation of triacylglycerol (TAG) as a storage compound in eukaryotic algae has been the subject of extensive studies over the last 50 years. The model industrial algaChlorella sorokinianaaccumulates TAG and other storage compounds under nitrogen (N)-limited growth. Previously we used transcriptomics to explore the regulation of TAG synthesis inC. sorokiniana. Surprisingly, our analysis showed that the expression of several key genes encoding enzymes involved in plastidic fatty acid synthesis are significantly repressed. Metabolic labeling with radiolabeled acetate showed thatde novofatty acid synthesis is indeed downregulated under N-limitation. Likewise, inhibition of the Target of Rapamycin kinase (TOR), a key regulator of metabolism and growth, decreased fatty acid synthesis. We compared the changes in proteins and phosphoprotein abundance using a proteomics and phosphoproteomics approach inC. sorokinianacells under N-limitation or TOR inhibition and found extensive overlap between the N-limited and TOR-inhibited conditions. We also identified changes in the phosphorylation levels of TOR complex proteins, TOR-kinase and RAPTOR, under N-limitation, indicating that TOR signaling is altered. Our results indicate that under N-limitation there is significant metabolic remodeling, including fatty acid synthesis, mediated by TOR signaling. We find that TOR-mediated metabolic remodeling of fatty acid synthesis under N-limitation is conserved in the chlorophyte algaeChlorella sorokinianaandChlamydomonas reinhardtii.
A diversified, widespread microbial gene cluster encodes homologs of methyltransferases involved in methanogenesis
Authors: Kountz Duncan J. , Balskus Emily P.
Published: August 2023

Analyses of microbial genomes have revealed unexpectedly wide distributions of enzymes from specialized metabolism, including methanogenesis, providing exciting opportunities for discovery. Here, we identify a family of gene clusters (the type 1mlpgene clusters (MGCs)) that encodes homologs of the soluble coenzyme M methyltransferases (SCMTs) involved in methylotrophic methanogenesis and is widespread in bacteria and archaea. Type 1 MGCs are expressed and regulated in medically, environmentally, and industrially important organisms, making them likely to be physiologically relevant. Enzyme annotation, analysis of genomic context, and biochemical experiments suggests these gene clusters play a role in methyl-sulfur and/or methyl-selenide metabolism in numerous anoxic environments, including the human gut microbiome, potentially impacting sulfur and selenium cycling in diverse, anoxic environments.
Rethinking engagement in urban design: reimagining the value of co-design and participation at every stage of planning for autonomous vehicles
Authors: Belkouri Daria , Khairy Lina , Laing Richard , Lanng Ditte Bendix
Published: August 2023

Purpose

The practical demonstrations and research which led to the preparation of this paper involved a combination of stakeholder engagement, policy debate and the practical demonstration and testing of autonomous vehicles. By adhering to a design approach which in centred on participation and human-centred engagement, the advent of autonomous vehicles might avoid many of the problems encountered in relation to conventional transport.

Design/methodology/approach

The research explored how a new and potentially disruptive technology might be incorporated in urban settings, through the lens of participation and problem-based design. The research critically reviews key strands in the literature (autonomous vehicles, social research and participatory design), with allusion to current case study experiments.

Findings

Although there are numerous examples of autonomous vehicles (AV) research concentrating on technical aspects alone, this paper finds that such an approach appears to be an unusual starting point for the design of innovative technology. That is, AVs would appear to hold the potential to be genuinely disruptive in terms of innovation, yet the way that disruption takes place should surely be guided by design principles and by issues and problems encountered by potential users.

Practical implications

The research carries significant implications for practice in that it advocates locating those socio-contextual issues at the heart of the problem definition and design process and ahead of technical solutions.

Originality/value

What sets this research apart from other studies concerning AVs was that the starting point for investigation was the framing of AVs within contexts and scenarios leading to the emergence of wicked problems. This begins with a research position where the potential uses for AVs are considered in a social context, within which the problems and issues to be solved become the starting point for design at a fundamental level.
The impact of social media communication on consumer-based brand equity and purchasing intent in a pandemic
Authors: Wei Lee Heng , Huat Ong Chuan , Thurasamy Ramayah
Published: August 2023

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the impact of the source of the content in social media communication and the content distribution intensity on consumer-based brand equity (CBBE) dimensions and how the study will eventually impact purchase intention.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 521 samples were collected using an online survey questionnaire. The respondents' validity was verified using purposive sampling techniques, and the responses were analysed using SmartPLS 3.0.

Findings

The authors outlined the fundamental mechanisms of what makes social media communication effective and discovered that emotional-based brand equity dimensions (brand association and brand loyalty) remained significant in influencing purchase intention. However, attribution-based brand equity dimensions (perceived quality, brand trust and brand awareness) are found to have no impact.

Originality/value

This study decomposed social media communication into three different dimensions, and the authors' result showed that the dimensions do not impact CBBE to the same extent. The authors concluded that some CBBE dimensions, which appear to be a rigour determinant of purchase intention over time, have a feeble effect during the pandemic. The existing relationship between the CBBE dimensions with purchase intention might not hold in the pandemic context. The authors suggested that anxiety or pandemic fear could alter the normal consumer buying process and make some well-established relationships not hold. As research indicates that pandemics are reoccurring events, the authors' study contributes to the global effort to dampen some of the pandemic-related effects on business and marketing.
Trade credit supply and financial distress outcomes: evidence from Australian voluntary administrations
Authors: Routledge James
Published: August 2023

Purpose

The objective of this study is to investigate the relationship between trade credit supply and financial distress outcomes, considering the role that trade credit plays as a substantial source of liquidity for distressed companies. Specifically, it examines whether there is an association between trade credit supply and the outcomes experienced by companies that undergo the voluntary administration (VA) insolvency procedure under Australian corporate law.

Design/methodology/approach

The study examines a sample of companies that were listed on the Australian Securities Exchange and entered VA between 2002 and 2019. Ordered logistic regression is used to determine the relation between trade credit and VA outcomes. The VA outcomes considered are as follows: (1) company liquidation, (2) orderly dissolution through an agreement with creditors, or (3) an agreement with creditors for reorganization of all or part of the company's business.

Findings

The findings show that trade creditors' willingness to supply credit is influenced by their rational expectations about the future prospects of financially distressed customers. Higher levels of trade credit and an increase in trade credit supply prior to VA are associated with a greater probability of achieving a reorganization versus a liquidation or dissolution outcome.

Originality/value

There is no apparent prior study investigating the connection between trade credit supply and outcomes for distressed companies entering insolvency administration. Therefore, this study provides novel evidence on the role of trade credit in the context of financial distress. Understanding the relationship between trade credit supply and outcomes is particularly significant considering that many jurisdictions offer distressed companies the opportunity to pursue reorganization under their insolvency laws. Examining financial distress and trade credit in the Australian creditor-friendly context expands on existing research. Prior research has predominantly relied on data from the United States, which has debtor-friendly bankruptcy law. Consequently, these studies may lack generalizability to jurisdictions with creditor-friendly law such as Australia.
The challenges and approaches of measuring research impact and influence on public policy making
Authors: Siar Sheila
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Measuring research’s policy influence is challenging, given the complexity of the policy process, the gradual nature of policy influence, and the time lag between research investment and impact. This paper assesses measurement approaches and discusses their merits and applications to overcome various hurdles.

Design/methodology/approach

Relevant articles and studies were selected and analyzed. First, the research-policy interface was revisited to understand their link and how research influences policy making. Second, the most common approaches for measuring policy influence were reviewed based on their features, strengths, and limitations.

Findings

The three approaches reviewed — pyramid, influencing, and results chain — have their respective strengths. Thus, research organizations planning to design a program for monitoring and evaluation (M&E) of policy influence have to adopt the best possible features of each approach and develop a customized method depending on their objectives and overall M&E framework.

Originality/value

This paper fosters a deeper understanding of leveraging the three approaches.
Competing realities, uncertain diagnoses of infectious disease: Mass self‐testing for COVID‐19 and liminal bio‐citizenship
Authors: Petersen Alan , Pienaar Kiran
Published: August 2023

Diagnoses of infectious diseases are being transformed as mass self‐testing using rapid antigen tests (RATs) is increasingly integrated into public health. Widely used during the COVID‐19 pandemic, RATs are claimed to have many advantages over ‘gold‐standard’ polymerase chain reaction tests, especially their ease of use and production of quick results. Yet, while laboratory studies indicate the value of RATs in detecting the SARS‐CoV‐2 virus antigen, uncertainty surrounds their deployment and ultimate effectiveness in stemming infections. This article applies the analytic lens of biological citizenship (or bio‐citizenship) to explore Australia’s experience of implementing a RAT‐based mass self‐testing strategy to manage COVID‐19. Drawing on Annemarie Mol’s (1999, The Sociological Review, 47(1), 74–89) concept of ontological politics and analysing government statements, scientific articles and news media reporting published during a critical juncture of the strategy’s implementation, we explore the kind of bio‐citizenship implied by this strategy. Our analysis suggests the emergence of what we call liminal bio‐citizenship, whereby citizens are made responsible for self‐managing infection risk without the diagnostic certitude this demands. We discuss how the different realities of mass self‐testing interact to reinforce this liminal citizenship and consider the implications for the sociology of diagnosis.
IoT forensics: Exploiting unexplored log records from the HIKVISION file system
Authors: Dragonas Evangelos , Lambrinoudakis Costas , Kotsis Michael
Published: August 2023

CCTV surveillance systems are IoT products that can be found almost everywhere. Their digital forensic analysis often plays a key role in solving crimes. However, it is common for these devices to use proprietary file systems, which frequently hinders a complete examination. HIKVISION is a well‐known manufacturer of such devices that typically ships its products with its proprietary file system. The HIKVISION file system has been analyzed before but that research has focused on the recovery of video footage. In this paper, the HIKVISION file system is being revisited regarding the log records it stores. More specifically, these log records are thoroughly examined to uncover both their structure and meaning. These unexplored pieces of evidence remain unexploited by major commercial forensic software, yet they can contain critical information for an investigation. To further assist digital forensic examiners with their analysis, a Python utility, namely the Hikvision Log Analyzer, was developed as part of this study that can automate part of the process.
Interannual patterns of avian diseases in wild New Zealand avifauna near conservation areas
Authors: Filion Antoine , Webster Trudi , Poulin Robert , Godfrey Stephanie S.
Published: August 2023

The past few years have seen a noticeable increase in the emergence of infectious diseases in wildlife, especially vector‐borne diseases, presenting a challenge for the conservation of endangered species. One such vector‐borne disease, avian malaria (Plasmodium spp.) is on the rise in New Zealand avifauna, threatening bird populations that are among the most extinction‐prone in the world. Furthermore, recent reports have outlined an increase in deaths of native iconic bird species specifically due to this disease. In order to help manage breakouts of this pathogen at a local scale, we need a better understanding of potential drivers of the emergence of avian malaria in wild New Zealand avifauna. Here, we set to test the role of climatic drivers in synchronizing contacts between avian hosts and vectors, assess the temporal stability of transmission dynamics between years, and determine the role of introduced species in causing spill‐over of this pathogen towards native species. Our study focused on three sites that were sampled regularly during two consecutive years in the austral summer, each site being adjacent to a breeding colony of Yellow‐eyed penguins (Megadyptes antipodes). Our results reveal an overall temporal stability of avian malaria incidence patterns, with a decrease in infection throughout the austral summer for both sampled years. Moreover, we highlight a phylogenetic signal among sampled bird species, with introduced species being more heavily infected by avian malaria than their native counterparts. In contrast, we found no effect of the two climatic drivers investigated, temperature and rainfall, on mosquito abundance. Our results suggest a strong effect of alien species acting as reservoirs for diseases spilling‐over towards immunologically naïve species, and provide conservation managers with a critical timeframe to control avian malaria breakouts.
Clinical evaluation of culturable bacteria, endotoxins and lipoteichoic acid in teeth with vital normal pulp tissues
Authors: Chiarelli‐Neto Vito M. , de Aveiro Emelly , Bronzato Juliana D. , Arruda‐Vasconcelos Rodrigo , Louzada Lidiane M. , Godoi Ederaldo P. , Lopes Erica M. , de‐Jesus‐Soares Adriana , Ferraz Caio C. R. , Almeida José F. A. , Marciano Marina A. , Gomes Brenda P. F. A.
Published: August 2023

The objective of this study was to investigate the presence of culturable bacteria, endotoxins (LPS) and lipoteichoic acid (LTA) levels in teeth with normal vital pulp (NVP) with intact crowns (IC) and those with coronal restoration (CR) limited to the enamel level. A total of 20 teeth indicated for endodontic treatment due to prosthetic reasons were selected. Samples were collected from the root canals. The levels of cultivable bacteria, LPS and LTA were assessed. Statistical analyses were performed at significance level set at 5%. None of the teeth presented microbial growth. In the IC group, the LPS levels were limited to the lowest concentration of LPS. On the contrary, higher LPS and LTA levels were detected in teeth with CR. It was concluded that teeth with NVP and IC were negative for bacteria, LPS and LTA; while teeth with CR were positive for bacterial virulence factors.
Internal Information Quality and Corporate Employment Decisions
Authors: Choi Ahrum , Lee Woo‐Jong , Lee Yong Gyu , Zhou Gaoguang
Published: August 2023

Prior studies argue that high‐quality internal information improves forecasting and reduces internal information asymmetry, and hence facilitates firms’ decision‐making. Consistent with this argument, we find that internal information quality (IIQ) is positively associated with employment efficiency. Furthermore, we find that better IIQ leads to an improvement in employment efficiency primarily by improving demand forecasts. The baseline finding is robust to using a setting that exploits time‐series shocks to IIQ (i.e., the adoption of SFAS 158) and other sensitivity analyses. Our findings add to prior studies on the role of IIQ in decision‐making.
Biallelic ANKS6 null variants cause notable extrarenal phenotypes in a nephronophthisis patient and lead to hepatobiliary abnormalities by YAP1 deficiency
Authors: Liu Keqiang , Chen Ru , Wang Xiaoying , Gong Yiming , Shi Jia , Gu Beilin , Zhou Ying , Cai Wei
Published: August 2023

The ankyrin repeat and sterile alpha motif domain containing 6 (ANKS6) gene, encoding an inversin compartment protein of the primary cilium, was recently reported as a pathogenic gene of nephronophthisis (MIM PS256100). Extrarenal manifestations are frequently observed in this disease, however, potential genotype–phenotype correlations and the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. Here we described an infant with kidney failure, hepatobiliary abnormalities, and heart disease, in whom whole exome sequencing identified compound heterozygous variants in ANKS6, including a novel nonsense variant p.Trp458* and a recurrent splicing variant c.2394+1G > A. mRNA expression studies showed that the splicing variant caused aberrant mRNA splicing with exon 13 skipping and the biallelic variants were predicted to cause loss of ANKS6 function. We systematically characterized the clinical and genetic spectra of the disease and revealed that biallelic null variants in ANKS6 cause more severe kidney disease and more extrarenal manifestations, thus establishing a clear genotype–phenotype correlation for the disease. Further evaluations showed that ANKS6 deficiency reduced YAP1 expression in the patient's bile duct epithelium and ANKS6 promotes YAP1 transcriptional activity in a dose‐dependent manner, indicating that loss of ANKS6 function causes hepatobiliary abnormalities through YAP1 deficiency during biliary morphogenesis and development, which may offer new therapeutic targets.
Lateral sinus floor elevation in patients with sinus floor defects: A retrospective study with a 1‐ to 9‐year follow‐up
Authors: Wen Yifan , Wei Donghao , Jiang Xi , Zhang Yu , Di Ping , Lin Ye
Published: August 2023

Objectives

We aimed to retrospectively evaluate the long‐term clinical outcomes of lateral sinus floor elevation (LSFE) in patients with sinus floor defects.

Materials and Methods

Between 2008 and 2020, patients with sinus floor defects were recruited after confirmation on preoperative cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT). The split‐thickness flap technique with a palatal crestal incision was used to manage tissue adhesion in the bone defects area. A resorbable collagen membrane was used to close the sinus floor defects from the crestal side before bone substitute placement. Of 58 implants, 47 (81.0%) were placed after an 8‐month healing period, whereas 11 were placed simultaneously. Patients were followed up by radiography and clinical examination for 1–9 years. Finally, the cumulative survival rate (CSR) of implants, surgical complications, and marginal bone loss (MBL) were recorded and analyzed.

Results

In total, LSFE was performed in 36 sinuses (35 patients) with sinus floor defects, of which surgery was completed in 35 sinuses (97.2%) in the first attempt. Schneiderian membrane perforations (SMP) occurred in 10/36 (27.8%) sinuses; nine were repaired carefully, whereas one surgery was suspended due to complicated SMP, and successful re‐entry LSFE was performed 4 months later. After a follow‐up period of 1–9 years, the CSR was 96.5% at the 1‐year, 3‐year, 5‐year, and 7‐year follow‐ups and 64.3% at the 8‐year follow‐up.

Conclusion

Within the limitations of this study, sinus floor defects seem not to compromise LSFE therapy after appropriate management and long‐term clinical outcomes are predictable.
Acoustic‐electric trigeminal‐nerve stimulation enhances functional connectivity in patients with disorders of consciousness
Authors: Wu Min , Concolato Marta , Sorger Bettina , Yu Yamei , Li Xiaoxia , Luo Benyan , Riecke Lars
Published: August 2023

Aim

Disruption of functional brain connectivity is thought to underlie disorders of consciousness (DOC) and recovery of impaired connectivity is suggested as an indicator of consciousness restoration. We recently found that rhythmic acoustic‐electric trigeminal‐nerve stimulation (i.e., musical stimulation synchronized to electrical stimulation of the trigeminal nerve) in the gamma band can improve consciousness in patients with DOC. Here, we investigated whether these beneficial stimulation effects are mediated by alterations in functional connectivity.

Methods

Sixty‐three patients with DOC underwent 5 days of gamma, beta, or sham acoustic‐electric trigeminal‐nerve stimulation. Resting‐state electroencephalography was measured before and after the stimulation and functional connectivity was assessed using phase‐lag index (PLI).

Results

We found that gamma stimulation induces an increase in gamma‐band PLI. Further characterization revealed that the enhancing effect is (i) specific to the gamma band (as we observed no comparable change in beta‐band PLI and no effect of beta‐band acoustic‐electric stimulation or sham stimulation), (ii) widely spread across the cortex, and (iii) accompanied by improvements in patients' auditory abilities.

Conclusion

These findings show that gamma acoustic‐electric trigeminal‐nerve stimulation can improve resting‐state functional connectivity in the gamma band, which in turn may be linked to auditory abilities and/or consciousness restoration in DOC patients.
Abnormal bone marrow findings in patients following treatment with chimeric antigen receptor‐T cell therapy
Authors: Yeung Cecilia C. S. , Woolston David W. , Wu Vicky , Voutsinas Jenna M. , Basom Ryan , Davis Chris , Hirayama Alexandre V. , Naresh Kikkeri N.
Published: August 2023

Background

Bone marrow (BM) assessment after CAR‐T cell immunotherapy infusion is not routinely performed to monitor adverse events such as cytopenias, hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, or infections. Our institution has performed BM biopsies as part of CAR‐T cell treatment protocols, encompassing pre‐ and post‐treatment time points and during long‐term follow‐up.

Methods

We conducted a systematic retrospective review of BM abnormalities observed in samples from 259 patients following CAR‐T cell immunotherapy. We correlated BM pathology findings with mortality, relapse/residual disease, and laboratory values.

Results

At a median of 35.5 days post‐CAR‐T infusion, 25.5% showed severe marrow hypocellularity, and 6.2% showed serous atrophy, and peripheral blood cytopenias corroborated these observations. Marrow features associated with reduced disease burden post‐CAR‐T infusion include increased lymphocytes seen in 16 patients and an increase of macrophages or granulomatous response seen in 25 patients. However, a 100‐day landmark analysis also showed increased marrow histiocytes were associated with lower survival (median OS 6.0 vs. 21.4 months, p = .026), as was grade 2–3 marrow reticulin (18 patients) (median OS 12.5 vs. 24.2 months, p = .034).

Conclusions

These data represent the first systematic observations of BM changes in patients receiving CAR‐T cell immunotherapy.
Detection of proteomic alterations at different stages in a Huntington's disease mouse model via matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI‐MS) imaging
Authors: Karayel‐Basar Merve , Uras Irep , Kiris Irem , Baykal Ahmet Tarik
Published: August 2023

Huntington's disease (HD) is a progressive and irreversible neurodegenerative disease leading to the inability to carry out daily activities and for which no cure exists. The underlying mechanisms of the disease have not been fully elucidated yet. Matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI‐MSI) allows the spatial information of proteins to be obtained upon the tissue sections without homogenisation. In this study, we aimed to examine proteomic alterations in the brain tissue of an HD mouse model with MALDI‐MSI coupled to LC–MS/MS system. We used 3‐, 6‐ and 12‐month‐old YAC128 mice representing pre‐stage, mild stage and pathological stage of the HD and their non‐transgenic littermates, respectively. The intensity levels of 89 proteins were found to be significantly different in YAC128 in comparison to their control mice in the pre‐stage, 83 proteins in the mild stage, and 82 proteins in the pathological stage. Among them, Tau, EF2, HSP70, and NogoA proteins were validated with western blot analysis. In conclusion, the results of this study have provided remarkable new information about the spatial proteomic alterations in the HD mouse model, and we suggest that MALDI‐MSI is an excellent technique for identifying such regional proteomic changes and could offer new perspectives in examining complex diseases.
Neurological side effects and drug interactions of antiviral compounds against SARS‐CoV‐2
Authors: Akhvlediani Tamar , Bernard‐Valnet Raphael , Dias Sara P. , Eikeland Randi , Pfausler Bettina , Sellner Johann ,   for the Infectious Disease Panel of the European Academy of Neurology
Published: August 2023

Background and purpose

The COVID‐19 pandemic, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), rapidly spread across the globe. Tremendous efforts have been mobilized to create effective antiviral treatment options to reduce the burden of the disease. This article summarizes the available knowledge about the antiviral drugs against SARS‐CoV‐2 from a neurologist's perspective.

Methods

We summarize neurological aspects of antiviral compounds against SARS‐CoV‐2 with full, conditional, or previous marketing authorization by the European Medicines Agency (EMA).

Results

Nirmatrelvir/ritonavir targets the SARS‐CoV‐2 3c‐like protease using combinatorial chemistry. Nirmatrelvir/ritonavir levels are affected by medications metabolized by or inducing CYP3A4, including those used in neurological diseases. Dysgeusia with a bitter or metallic taste is a common side effect of nirmatrelvir/ritonavir. Molnupiravir is a nucleotide analog developed to inhibit the replication of viruses. No clinically significant interactions with other drugs have been identified, and no specific considerations for people with neurological comorbidity are required. In the meantime, inconsistent results from clinical trials regarding efficacy have led to the withdrawal of marketing authorization by the EMA. Remdesivir is a viral RNA polymerase inhibitor and interferes with the production of viral RNA. The most common side effect in patients with COVID‐19 is nausea. Remdesivir is a substrate for CYP3A4.

Conclusions

Neurological side effects and drug interactions must be considered for antiviral compounds against SARS‐CoV‐2. Further studies are required to better evaluate their efficacy and adverse events in patients with concomitant neurological diseases. Moreover, evidence from real‐world studies will complement the current knowledge.
Where does ex‐dividend trading occur: An examination of trading venues around dividends
Authors: Cox Justin , Fuller Kathleen P. , Van Ness Robert
Published: August 2023

We examine the fragmentation of trading around the ex‐dividend date. We argue that the taker‐maker and dark trading venues provide potential dividend capture traders a more favorable platform than the maker‐taker venue(s) given the price improvement, lower queues, and lower net transaction costs. Our evidence indicates that taker‐maker (dark) venue market share decreases (increases) on cum‐dividend days but reverts to normal levels on the ex‐dividend day. Additionally, we find fragmented trading impacts the ex‐dividend price change and improves price efficiency. Finally, we find evidence that retail trades are associated with potential dividend‐capture trading.
Participation and co‐production for learning and development of identities: wherever I go, I meet myself
Authors: Stephens John , Carter Chris , McMahon Susan , Howard Bronwen , Scott Lesley
Published: August 2023

Background

Contemporary society is characterised by constant change with an ever‐increasing feature of interconnection, having clear implications for healthcare professional learning and role identity. It is proposed that active participation and coproduction for learning can provide options to understand contemporary challenges and opportunities in the development of personal and professional identity.

Aims

This research aimed to explore the value of learning and development of identity through participation in co‐produced practical workshop activity involving service users and students across a Year 1 (level 4) undergraduate BSc(Hons) Physiotherapy module. Co‐production was also reflected within the research project design and operationalisation.

Materials & Methods

Following delivery of the workshops, data were collected and analysed from a series of individual semi‐structured interviews (n = 11) and a focus group.

Results

Six emergent themes were identified. A central theme of identity and self‐worth was deconstructed within five interdependent sub‐themes; real and safe, person‐centred, backstage learning, good to talk and staging of curriculum.

Conclusion

A process of open dialogue within co‐produced workshop design and delivery would appear to enhance learning and a contextual appreciation of a broader ‘whole’ for all participants. Future research is aimed at building on this project, to explore co‐produced learning opportunities across levels and settings that provide further insight into personal and professional identity development.
A new gelatinous host for pelagic fishes: First in situ record of an association between driftfishes (Stromateiformes, Ariommatidae) and nudibranchs (Mollusca, Phylliroidae)
Authors: Pastana Murilo N. L. , Johnson G. David , Mundy Bruce , Datovo Alessio
Published: August 2023

We describe the first recorded association between fishes and nudibranchs in epipelagic waters. In situ observations and photographs of a juvenile spotted driftfish Ariomma regulus (Stromateiformes; Ariommatidae) swimming alongside the planktonic nudibranch Phylliroe lichtensteinii (Gastropoda; Phylliroidae) were made during blackwater scuba dives off Palm Beach, Florida, United States of America. In this paper, we describe this behavior, highlighting a previously undocumented zooplanktonic host used by fishes. This finding also demonstrates the importance of community science in advancing our understanding of the early life history of marine species.
What interventions keep older people out of nursing homes? A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Gaugler Joseph E. , Zmora Rachel , Peterson Colleen M. , Mitchell Lauren L. , Jutkowitz Eric , Duval Sue
Published: August 2023

Background

Nursing home admission remains a central outcome in many healthcare systems and community‐based programs. The objective of this meta‐analysis was to determine the efficacy of pharmacological and nonpharmacological interventions in preventing nursing home admission for adults aged 65 years or older.

Methods

MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycInfo, CINAHL, and the Cochrane Library were all last searched in March 2022 to identify up‐to‐date eligible studies for the meta‐analysis. Two reviewers screened each abstract independently. In instances where reviewers disagreed as to inclusion, all reviewers convened to review the Abstract to come to a consensus decision regarding inclusion. Two reviewers independently collected data from each report. Disagreements were resolved using group consensus. The first author reviewed the narrative descriptions of intervention components to create a categorization scheme for the various interventions evaluated in selected studies. These categorizations were reviewed with the co‐authors (second–fifth) and collapsed to create the final classification of intervention type. Study risk of bias was assessed using an instrument developed based on Agency for Healthcare Research & Quality (AHRQ) guidance. Differences between the percentages of participants in treatment versus control arms was the outcome of interest.

Results

Two‐hundred and eighty‐three studies with a total of 203,735 older persons were included in the meta‐analysis. Specialty geriatrics care (OR = 0.77, 95% CI, 0.60–0.99), multicomponent interventions (OR = 0.82, 95% CI, 0.67–0.99), and cognitive stimulation (OR = 0.60, 95% CI, 0.38–0.96) were associated with less frequent nursing home admission. Home‐based and inpatient/discharge management interventions approached statistical significance but were not associated with reduced institutionalization.

Conclusions

Even in the face of complex care needs, older adults wish to live at home. Effectively disseminating and implementing geriatric care principles across healthcare encounters could achieve a highly valued and preferred outcome in older adulthood: aging in place.
Prevalence and development of a risk score for oral human papillomavirus infection in men who have sex with men in Mexico
Authors: Carnalla Martha , Rojas‐Martínez Rosalba , Barrientos‐Gutiérrez Tonatiuh , Allen‐Leigh Betania , León‐Maldonado Leith , Gutiérrez‐Xicoténcatl Lourdes , Portillo‐Romero Alejandra J. , Nyitray Alan G. , Salmerón Jorge , Giuliano Anna R. , Lazcano‐Ponce Eduardo
Published: August 2023

Background

Men who have sex with men (MSM) are at high risk for oral human papillomavirus (HPV infection). There are no specific screening guidelines to facilitate the identification of people at risk for oral HPV infection. We aimed to estimate the prevalence of oral high‐risk HPV and create a risk score to identify MSM at higher risk for prevalent oral HPV.

Methods

We collected baseline data from a clinical trial from a subsample of 500 MSM attending sexually transmitted disease treatment clinics; they provided an oral gargle sample for high‐risk HPV detection. We calculated oral high‐risk HPV prevalence and 95% confidence intervals (CIs), used a logistic regression model to identify factors associated with high‐risk HPV infection, and created a risk score.

Results

The prevalence of any oral high‐risk HPV among MSM was 11.1% (95% CI: 8.6–14.2), with a higher prevalence observed among men living with HIV (14.8%). Factors independently associated with oral high‐risk HPV were age ≥40 years (OR = 2.71, 95% CI: 1.28–5.73 compared to <40 years), being HIV‐positive with CD4 count 200–499 (OR = 2.76, 95% CI: 1.34–5.65 compared to HIV‐negative), and recent recreational use of vasodilators (poppers/sildenafil) (OR = 2.02, 95% CI: 1.02–2.97). The risk score had good discriminatory power (AUC = 0.70, 95% CI: 0.63–0.77).

Conclusions

MSM have specific predictors for prevalent oral high‐risk HPV, and a risk score could be used by clinicians to target men with vaccine recommendations and counseling, and identify those who could benefit from primary interventions given the available resources, or for referral to dental services for follow‐up when available.
Palliative care needs and preferences of older adults with advanced or serious chronic illnesses and their families in rural communities of Indiana, USA
Authors: Lalani Nasreen , Hamash Kawther , Wang Yitong
Published: August 2023

Purpose

To explore the palliative care needs and preferences of older adults with advanced or serious chronic illnesses and their families. Also, to propose strategies to promote supportive palliative care in the rural communities of Indiana, USA.

Method

We conducted qualitative interviews to gather rural caregivers’ experiences of palliative care. Recruitment was done in collaboration with community partners using social media, flyers, emails, invitations, and word‐of‐mouth. A purposive sample of family caregivers was obtained. All the interviews were conducted online. The average interview was 30‐45 minutes. Data were analyzed using a thematic analysis approach.

Findings

Our findings showed 6 major themes that indicated several palliative care needs and preferences of older patients and their families in rural communities that include: (1) difficulties in pain and symptom burden; (2) perceived discrimination and lack of trust; (3) longer distances to care facilities; (4) difficult conversations; (5) caregiving burden; and (6) use of telehealth in a rural palliative care context.

Conclusion

Rural family caregivers experience several social inequities and disparities causing a lack of access to and low utilization of palliative care. All these disparities cause several challenges for patients and their families trying to manage serious illnesses and die in place with peace and comfort. Inadequate access and lack of resources cause pain and distress for both patients and their families. Provider education and trainings, initiating early palliative care models, integrating behavioral health in palliative care, and using culturally congruent care delivery approaches in support of community partners can improve palliative care services in rural communities.
After the World's End, before the Resurrection: Thinking Mourning and Christian Hope after Jacques Derrida
Authors: Horton Sarah
Published: August 2023

In light of Jacques Derrida's writings on death and mourning, it may seem that the Christian teaching that the dead will be raised is a betrayal of others, a failure to take up one's responsibility to testify to those who have died. In conversation with Emmanuel Falque's work on finitude, Martin Heidegger's reading of 1 Thessalonians, and Søren Kierkegaard's reading of Abraham, I respond in two movements to this objection to faith that God will raise the dead. First, I propose that even for the Christian, the death of the other remains a loss, since the Christian must surrender the other to God. It is, however, this very surrender of the other to God that seems to be an abdication of responsibility. Second, therefore, I argue that faith in the resurrection decenters the self and challenges our understanding of responsibility even more than does Derrida's own analysis. Faith, I conclude, means giving up the desire to cling to one's own responsibility.
High Endplate Hounsfield Units Value Indicate Intervertebral Disc Degeneration Following Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion Surgery
Authors: Zheng Huo‐Liang , Li Bo , Song Shao‐Kuan , Jiang Lei‐Sheng , Zheng Xin‐Feng , Jiang Sheng‐Dan
Published: August 2023

Objective

Lumbar disc degeneration (LDD) is a common cause of low back pain and disability, and its prevalence increases with age. The aim of this study is to investigate whether endplate Hounsfield unit (HU) values have an effect on lumbar disc degeneration (LDD) after transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) surgery in patients with degenerative lumbar stenosis.

Methods

This study was a retrospective analysis of patients who underwent TLIF surgery in January 2016 to October 2019. One hundred and fifty‐seven patients who underwent TLIF surgery for degenerative lumbar stenosis were enrolled in this study. Demographic data was recorded. VAS and ODI values were compared to assess the surgical outcomes in patients with or without process of LDD after TLIF surgery. Correlation analysis was performed to investigate associations between LDD and endplate HU value. Binary logistic regression analysis was carried out to study relationships between the DDD and the multiple risk factors.

Results

There was a statistically significant correlation between LDD, body mass index (BMI), age, paraspinal muscle atrophy, and total endplate scores (TEPS). Also, a strong and independent association between endplate HU value and LDD was found at every lumbar disc level (p < 0.01). After conditioning on matching factors, multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that higher endplate HU (odds ratio [OR]: 1.003, p = 0.003), higher TEPS (OR: 1.264, p = 0.002), higher BMI (odds ratio [OR]: 1.202, p = 0.002), a smaller cross‐sectional area (CSA) of the paraspinal muscle preoperatively (OR: 0.096, p < 0.001) were significant predictors of LDD development after TLIF surgery.

Conclusions

There is a significant association between LDD and endplate HU value after TLIF surgery in patients with degenerative lumbar stenosis. Beyond that, results from this study provide a mechanism by which high endplate HU value predisposes to LDD after TLIF surgery.
Three‐Dimensional Printed Plate Template Versus Hemipelvis Model in Patient‐Specific Plate Preparation for Posterior Wall Acetabular Fractures
Authors: Chen Jianan , Zheng Yifan , Zhou Wei , Qian Shenglong , Chen Yu , Cheng Yipeng , Wang Guodong , Cai Xianhua , Liu Ximing
Published: August 2023

Objective

The application of three‐dimensional (3D) printing technology in the management of posterior wall acetabular fractures can greatly reduce surgical invasiveness and operative time and simplify the procedure of reconstruction plate contouring, but the cost and time of patient‐specific plate preparation on the basis of traditional 3D‐printed pelvis model should not be neglected. We described a new method for patient‐specific plate preparation by using 3D‐printed plate template. The study aimed to assess the effectiveness and feasibility of the 3D‐printed plate template in patient‐specific plate preparation for posterior wall acetabular fractures.

Methods

A total of 65 cases of posterior wall acetabular fractures with surgical treatment from December 2012 to December 2020 were chosen. According to the different plate contouring methods, the 65 cases were divided into three groups, which were group A (21 cases), group B (20 cases), and group C (24 cases). In group A, the 3D‐printed plate template was used to contour the patient‐specific reconstruction plate before surgery, whereas the 3D‐printed hemipelvis model was adopted for group B. In group C, the reconstruction plate was contoured intraoperatively. Among the three groups, the instrumentation time, surgical time, blood loss, patient‐specific plate preparation time, complications, reduction quality, and hip function were compared. The Kruskal–Wallis test was used to analyze the reduction quality and hip function among three groups.

Results

In comparison with group C, patients in groups A and B were featured by obviously shorter instrumentation time (−22, −23 min), shorter surgical time (−46, −44 min), and less intraoperative blood loss (−110, −122 mL). Compared to the hemipelvis model in group B (2.29 ± 0.56 vs. 12.70 ± 3.79 days), the 3D printing time for plate templates in group A was significantly shorter. The reduction quality and hip function had no obvious statistical difference among the three groups. The complication rate within group A (3/21) and group B (3/20) were both slightly lower than group C (5/24), with no obvious difference.

Conclusions

Both the patient‐specific pre‐contoured plate fixation methods based on the 3D‐printed hemipelvis model and plate template can achieve satisfactory clinical efficacy, with the advantage of shorter instrumentation and surgical time, and less intraoperative blood loss. However, 3D printing of plate template is easier and less time‐consuming, considering the shorter time and less cost for 3D printing of physical model.
Flexible specification testing in quantile regression models
Authors: Kutzker Tim , Klein Nadja , Wied Dominik
Published: August 2023

We propose three novel consistent specification tests for quantile regression models which generalize former tests in three ways. First, we allow the covariate effects to be quantile‐dependent and nonlinear. Second, we allow parameterizing the conditional quantile functions by appropriate basis functions, rather than parametrically. We are thereby able to test for general functional forms, while retaining linear effects as special cases. In both cases, the induced class of conditional distribution functions is tested with a Cramér–von Mises type test statistic for which we derive the theoretical limit distribution and propose a bootstrap method. Third, a modified test statistic is derived to increase the power of the tests. We highlight the merits of our tests in a detailed MC study and two real data examples. Our first application to conditional income distributions in Germany indicates that there are not only still significant differences between East and West but also across the quantiles of the conditional income distributions, when conditioning on age and year. The second application to data from the Australian national electricity market reveals the importance of using interaction effects for modeling the highly skewed and heavy‐tailed distributions of energy prices conditional on day, time of day and demand.
A nested semiparametric method for case‐control study with missingness
Authors: Zhao Ge , Ma Yanyuan , Hasler Jill Schnall , Damrauer Scott , Levin Michael , Chen Jinbo
Published: August 2023

We propose a nested semiparametric model to analyze a case‐control study where genuine case status is missing for some individuals. The concept of a noncase is introduced to allow for the imputation of the missing genuine cases. The odds ratio parameter of the genuine cases compared to controls is of interest. The imputation procedure predicts the probability of being a genuine case compared to a noncase semiparametrically in a dimension reduction fashion. This procedure is flexible, and vastly generalizes the existing methods. We establish the root‐ asymptotic normality of the odds ratio parameter estimator. Our method yields stable odds ratio parameter estimation owing to the application of an efficient semiparametric sufficient dimension reduction estimator. We conduct finite sample numerical simulations to illustrate the performance of our approach, and apply it to a dilated cardiomyopathy study.
Interdependence and multilateral economic sanctions
Authors: Jin Yuying , Meng Xue
Published: August 2023

Multilateral economic sanctions jointly sent by the United States and its allies were studied theoretically and quantitatively. Theory provides an interdependence explanation for the current trend in economic sanctions, arguing that it constitutes an inherent motivation for the United States and its allies to act in concert to maintain the current ‘unipolar’ situation and to impede the development of any ‘multipolar’ alternative. Quantitatively, a computable general equilibrium model simulating the impact of the multilateral trade sanctions imposed in response to the Russia–Ukraine conflict was evaluated to support the interdependence view of economic sanctions. The results suggest that the interdependencies among the United States and its allies would be strengthened by sanctions, especially at the production end. By contrast, economic sanctions weaken the interdependencies between the sanction target and sanction senders, as well as between the sanction target and other major economies. The interdependencies between sanction target and world's major economies tend to be simplified, indicating a weakened role of sanction target in the global economic development.