bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Retrospective analysis of serologic test requests in the diagnosis of viral hepatitis: Inappropriate test requests and cost
Authors: Gürbüz Melahat , Gencer Gülcan
Published: August 2024

The rational laboratory use and implementation of test ordering procedures aim to reduce unnecessary test requests. This study aimed to determine the financial burden caused by inappropriate serological test requests for viral hepatitis and to investigate physicians’ reasons for making unnecessary test requests. We performed a retrospective evaluation of inappropriate requests for hepatitis serology testing and the financial burden they caused at a tertiary care hospital over a 1-year period. The study found 2183 (3.84%) inappropriate test requests, costing $3309.00. Of these, 357 were same-day repeat requests and 1826 were requests not following diagnostic algorithms. In the logistic regression analysis of the factors affecting unnecessary test requests, a statistically significant difference was found between whether the unit was internal or surgical, whether the request came from inpatient services or outpatient clinics, and the professional titles (P < .05). Both types of inappropriate requests were more common among male physicians (P < .05). The highest rates of inappropriate test requesting were in physical therapy and rehabilitation, pediatrics, and adult emergency units. To identify the reasons behind unnecessary test requests, 135 physicians from 23 different departments participated in the survey. The main reasons for requesting tests were identified as protecting against malpractice and fears of misdiagnosis or overlooking a diagnosis. It has been observed that physicians often order tests routinely, without being fully familiar with standard test ordering procedures based on diagnostic algorithms, and lacking knowledge about rational laboratory use. The cost of tests is mostly unknown to clinicians. The study concludes that there are laboratory tests that incur much higher costs. When this assessment is applied to the entire laboratory, it becomes clear how significant a financial burden, unnecessary workload, and loss of time this situation can cause. Identifying the presence of unnecessary test requests is the first step in preventing them. Appropriate measures include highlighting these issues, providing necessary information, and offering in-service training.
Microbacterium humicola sp. nov., Microbacterium terrisoli sp. nov., Paenibacillus pedocola sp. nov., Paenibacillus silviterrae sp. nov., Flavobacterium terrisoli sp. nov., and Aquabacterium humicola sp. nov., isolated from soil
Authors: Lee Hyosun , Chaudhary Dhiraj Kumar , Lee Ki-Eun , Cha In-Tae , Chi Won-Jae , Kim Dong-Uk
Published: August 2024

Four Gram-stain-positive and two Gram-stain-negative bacterial strains, designated as W4T, FW7T, TW48T, UW52T, PT-3T, and RJY3T, were isolated from soil samples collected from the Republic of Korea. The 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis showed that strains W4T and FW7T belonged to the genus Microbacterium, strains TW48T and UW52T were affiliated to the genus Paenibacillus, strain PT-3T was related to the genus Flavobacterium, and strain RJY3T was associated with the genus Aquabacterium. The closest phylogenetic taxa to W4T, FW7T, TW48T, UW52T, PT-3T, and RJY3T were Microbacterium bovistercoris NEAU-LLET (97.7 %), Microbacterium protaetiae DFW100M-13T (97.9 %), Paenibacillus auburnensis JJ-7T (99.6 %), Paenibacillus allorhizosphaerae JJ-447T (95.7 %), Flavobacterium buctense T7T (97.1 %), and Aquabacterium terrae S2T (99.5 %), respectively. Average nucleotide identity and digital DNA–DNA hybridization values between the novel strains and related reference type strains were <95.0 % and <70.0 %, respectively. The major cellular fatty acid in strains W4T, FW7T TW48T, and UW52T was antiso-C15 : 0. Similarly, strain PT-3T revealed iso-C15 : 0, iso-C15 : 1 G, iso-C17 : 0 3-OH, and iso-C15 : 0 3-OH as its principal fatty acids. On the other hand, RJY3T exhibited summed feature 3 (C16 : 1
 ω7c and/or C16 : 1
 ω6c), C16 : 0, summed feature 8 (C18 : 1
 ω7c and/or C18 : 1
 ω6c), and C12 : 0 as its predominant fatty acids. Overall, the polyphasic taxonomic data indicated that strains W4T, FW7T, TW48T, UW52T, PT-3T, and RJY3T represent novel species within the genera Microbacterium, Paenibacillus, Flavobacterium, and Aquabacterium. Accordingly, we propose the names Microbacterium humicola sp. nov., with the type strain W4T (=KCTC 49888T=NBRC 116001T), Microbacterium terrisoli sp. nov., with the type strain FW7T (=KCTC 49859T=NBRC 116000T), Paenibacillus pedocola sp. nov., with the type strain TW48T (=KCTC 43470T=NBRC 116017T), Paenibacillus silviterrae sp. nov., with the type strain UW52T (=KCTC 43477T=NBRC 116018T), Flavobacterium terrisoli sp. nov., with the type strain PT-3T (=KCTC 92106T=NBRC 116012T), and Aquabacterium humicola sp. nov., with the type strain RJY3T (=KCTC 92105T=NBRC 115831T).
A Framework of Multi-View Machine Learning for Biological Spectral Unmixing of Fluorophores with Overlapping Excitation and Emission Spectra
Authors: Wang Ruogu , Feng Yunlong , Valm Alex M.
Published: August 2024

The accuracy in assigning fluorophore identity and abundance, termed spectral unmixing, in biological fluorescence microscopy images remains challenging due to the unavoidable and significant overlap in emission spectra among fluorophores. In conventional laser scanning confocal spectral microscopy, fluorophore information is acquired by recording emission spectra with a single combination of discrete excitation wavelengths. As a matter of fact, organic fluorophores have not only unique emission spectral signatures but also have unique and characteristic excitation spectra. In this paper, we propose a generalized multi-view machine learning approach, which makes use of both excitation and emission spectra to greatly improve the accuracy in differentiating multiple highly overlapping fluorophores in a single image. By recording emission spectra of the same field with multiple combinations of excitation wavelengths, we obtain data representing these different views of the underlying fluorophore distribution in the sample. We then propose a framework of multi-view machine learning methods, which allows us to flexibly incorporate noise information and abundance constraints, to extract the spectral signatures of fluorophores from their reference images and to efficiently recover their corresponding abundances in unknown mixed images. Numerical experiments on simulated image data demonstrate the method’s efficacy in improving accuracy, allowing for the discrimination of 100 fluorophores with highly overlapping spectra. Furthermore, validation on images of mixtures of fluorescently labeled E. coli demonstrates the power of the proposed multi-view strategy in discriminating fluorophores with spectral overlap in real biological images.
Multipoint Stimulation Motor Unit Number Estimation of the Extensor Indicis and Anconeus after Cervical Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Adewuyi Adenike A. , Hashemi Mahdis , Khanna Shreyaa , Berger Michael J. , Franz Colin K.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The health of infralesional lower motor neurons (LMNs) after a cervical spinal cord injury is frequently overlooked, despite its critical role in mediating effective clinical interventions for improving arm and hand function. Prior studies suggest high frequencies of infralesional lower motor abnormalities in muscles that are potential targets for nerve transfer surgery, a procedure that has the potential to restore upper limb function.

Methods

In this prospective, two-center cohort study, we used multipoint stimulation motor unit number estimation (MPS-MUNE) to evaluate the number of motor units in clinically relevant infralesional muscles, including the predominantly C7-innervated anconeus and the predominantly C8-innervated extensor indicis (EI) in 15 individuals with cervical spinal cord injury (26 limbs) and 17 healthy controls.

Results

Both CMAP and MUNE values were significantly lower (p < 0.05) for those with cervical spinal cord injury (EI CMAP: 2.0 mV±1.57, EI MUNE: 33±30.5, Anconeus CMAP:2.7 mV±1.9, Anconeus MUNE: 39±50.6) versus controls (EI CMAP: 6.6mV±1.0, EI MUNE:137±33.9, Anconeus CMAP:6.6 mV±1.3, Anconeus MUNE: 146 ±42.3). The test-retest reliability as measured by intraclass correlation coefficient and confidence interval (CI) for the EI and anconeus were 0.84 (CI: 0.45-0.95) and 0.78 (CI: 0.36-0.93), respectively.

Discussion

This study shows significant loss of infralesional motor units after cervical spinal cord injury. We demonstrate the potential utility of MPS-MUNE for evaluating the health of LMNs. The LMN abnormalities observed underscore the significance of this approach to evaluating potential targets for nerve transfer surgery for the restoration of upper limb function.
The mammalian Ire1 inhibitor, 4µ8C, exhibits broad anti-Aspergillusactivityin vitroand in a treatment model of fungal keratitis
Authors: Kamath Manali M. , Adams Emily M. , Lightfoot Jorge D. , Wells Becca L. , Fuller Kevin K.
Published: August 2024

Objective

The fungal unfolded protein response consists of a two-component relay in which the ER-bound sensor, IreA, splices and activates the mRNA of the transcription factor, HacA. Previously, we demonstrated thathacAis essential forAspergillus fumigatusvirulence in a murine model of fungal keratitis (FK), suggesting the pathway could serve as a therapeutic target. Here we investigate the antifungal properties of known inhibitors of the mammalian Ire1 protein bothin vitroand in a treatment model of FK.

Methods

The antifungal activity of Ire1 inhibitors was tested against conidia of severalA. fumigatusisolates by a microbroth dilution assay and against fungal biofilm by XTT reduction. The influence of 4μ8C onhacAmRNA splicing inA. fumigatuswas assessed through gel electrophoresis and qRT-PCR of UPR regulatory genes. The toxicity and antifungal profile of 4μ8C in the cornea was assessed by applying drops to uninfected orA. fumigatus-infected corneas 3 times daily starting 4 hours post-inoculation. Corneas were evaluated daily through slit-lamp imaging and optical coherence tomography, or at endpoint through histology or fungal burden quantification via colony forming units.

Results

Among six Ire1 inhibitors screened, the endonuclease inhibitor 4μ8C displayed the strongest antifungal profile with an apparent fungicidal action. The compound both blocked conidial germination and hyphal metabolism ofA. fumigatusAf293 in the same concentration range that blockedhacAsplicing and UPR gene induction (60-120 µM). Topical treatment of sham-inoculated corneas with 0.5 and 2.5 mM 4μ8C did not impact corneal clarity, but did transiently inhibit epithelialization of corneal ulcers. Relative to vehicle-treated Af293-infected corneas, treatment with 0.5 and 2.5 mM drug resulted in a 50% and >90% reduction in fungal load, respectively, the latter of which corresponded to an absence of clinical signs of infection or corneal pathology.

Conclusion

Thein vitrodata suggest that 4μ8C displays antifungal activity againstA. fumigatusthrough the specific inhibition of IreA. Topical application of the compound to the murine cornea can furthermore block the establishment of infection, suggesting this class of drugs can be developed as novel antifungals that improve visual outcomes in FK patients.
Understanding the nature of the magnetic coupling in transition metal doped
Bi2Se3
Authors: Sarkar Sagar , Sharma Shivalika , Eriksson Olle , Di Marco Igor
Published: August 2024

In this paper, we employ electronic structure theory to investigate the nature of the exchange coupling in transition metal doped Bi2Se3. We focus on V, Cr, Mn, and Fe, which have been under scrutiny for the realization of the quantum anomalous Hall effect. For simplicity, we model the doping process as happening inside a single layer of Bi within a single quintuple layer inside a three-formula-unit conventional hexagonal cell and consider situations of full coverage or half coverage. Due to the covalent nature of the chemical bond between transition metal atoms and selenium, this simple model is capable of describing the fundamental features of the intraplane exchange coupling, while offering a clearer analysis of the response to structural, magnetic, and electronic perturbations. In agreement with recent literature, our results confirm that the van Vleck mechanism has a very marginal contribution to the exchange coupling. Depending on the filling of the 3d shell and on the details of the electronic structure, several other mechanisms compete and cooperate to induce the magnetic order. For V, double exchange and superexchange cooperate to have the strongest ferromagnetic coupling among the investigated elements, followed by Cr where only superexchange is active. For Mn, superexchange and double exchange compete to create an extremely weak ferromagnetic order. For Fe, a strong antiferromagnetic coupling caused by the double exchange is observed to dominate over the ferromagnetic Ruderman-Kittel-Kasuya-Yosida interaction, but the high sensitivity of this competition to the doping concentration suggests that our conclusion may not hold in the dilute limit. Overall, Fe doping seems to offer the most intriguing competition of exchange mechanisms that can be tuned by adjusting the doping concentration and the details of the host, as, e.g., by replacing Se with Te or Bi with Sb.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Injection and confinement of positron bunches in a magnetic dipole trap
Authors: Deller A. , von der Linden J. , Nißl S. , Michishio K. , Oshima N. , Higaki H. , Stenson E. V.
Published: August 2024

We demonstrate the efficient injection of a pulsed positron beam into a magnetic dipole trap and investigate the ensuing particle dynamics in the inhomogeneous electric and magnetic fields. Bunches of ∼105e+ were transferred from a buffer-gas trap into the field of a permanent magnet using a lossless E×B drift technique. The Δt≈0.2µs pulses were short compared to the toroidal rotation period, τd≈16µs, and e+ confinement time, τc≈0.6 s. The redistribution dynamics were studied by measuring the delayed γ-ray emission as the trap was emptied. This work extends the record for the number of low-energy positrons held in a dipole trap by two orders of magnitude and represents a significant advance toward the confinement of an electron-positron pair plasma.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
A dynamic, two-way, individual-level, process-oriented framework for emergent leadership: modeling lateral influence in teams
Authors: Tabassum Marya , Raziq Muhammad Mustafa , Sarwar Naukhez , Wahaj Zujaja , Ikramullah Malik
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Emergent leadership is a relatively new phenomenon, suggesting that leaders emerge from within teams without having a formal leadership assigned role. While emergent leadership has much relevance in today's organizations transitioning from vertical to horizontal leadership, there is a paucity of research about the process of emergent leadership that enables team members to become influential within teams.

Design/methodology/approach

Using purposive sampling, we interview 40 individuals in nine agile teams working in five Information Technology firms.

Findings

We identify various traits, experiences, behaviors, skills, and abilities of emergent leaders. Broadly, we conclude that an emergent leader serves as a “detail-oriented structure” or a “big picture coordinator.” Based on the findings, we propose a leadership emergence process that details how team members gain status and emerge as leaders, as well as the factors that can cause them to lose that status and return to becoming a regular team member. Furthermore, we introduce a model that demonstrates how technical expertise and personality traits interact, influencing team dynamics and facilitating the emergence of leaders within a team.

Originality/value

We contribute to the literature on emergent leadership by conceptualizing lateral influence and a leadership emergence process. We also extend the agile leadership literature and address some calls for empirical studies to understand the leadership dynamics in agile teams. We also show some limitations of the existing approaches and offer some useful insights.
Effect of monetary policy transmission on the use-based classification of manufacturing industry in India: an empirical evidence
Authors: Sahoo Mrutyunjaya , Mohanty Shiba Prasad , Sahu Praveen
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the effect of monetary policy transmission on the use-based classification of manufacturing industries in India, an integral aspect influencing the overall economic growth of the nation.

Design/methodology/approach

The empirical study applies a panel autoregressive distributed lag model to examine the relationship/association between monetary policy transmission mechanism and the output of manufacturing industries in the long run and short run.

Findings

In the long run, the findings reveal a negative association between money supply and manufacturing industries’ output, indicating that an increase in money supply corresponds to a decrease in manufacturing output. Conversely, a positive relationship is observed between manufacturing industries’ output and banks’ credit, indicating that an increase in bank credit leads to a corresponding increase in manufacturing output. In the short run, the results highlight a significant positive relationship between manufacturing output and monetary policy transmission variables, including money supply, statutory liquidity ratio, real exchange rate and foreign direct investment. The use-based classification of manufacturing industries such as primary goods, capital goods and intermediate goods exhibits greater responsiveness to monetary policy shocks than consumer durables and non-durables goods.

Research limitations/implications

Policymakers are advised to regulate credit expansion to support the industry without risking financial instability, with key recommendations including stimulating consumer demand and adopting sector-specific policies to promote sustainable growth across diverse manufacturing sectors.

Originality/value

India, being a developing economy, efficient monetary policy transmission is crucial for boosting manufacturing output and employment. Nevertheless, there has been a scarcity of research concentrated on this pivotal intersection. This study aims to fill that gap, providing fresh insights into how monetary policy affects the growth of the manufacturing industry.
The impact of the CEO’s Islamic religiosity on tax aggressive behavior in family firms
Authors: Abu-Rajab Luai , Steijvers Tensie , Corten Maarten , Lybaert Nadine , Alsharairi Malek
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The authors investigate the influence of CEOs’ Islamic religiosity on the level of tax aggressiveness within private family firms. In addition, this study aims to explore the moderating role of the CEO's ownership stake in the firm and the payment of Zakat.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors gathered data through surveys completed by 199 CEOs of Jordanian Islamic family firms. These survey results, along with financial statements, were used for multiple ordinary least squares regression analyses.

Findings

The results of this study reveal a negative relation between the extent of Islamic religiosity of the CEO and the level of tax aggressive behavior. Furthermore, the results suggest that an increase in the CEO’s ownership stake strengthens the negative association between the CEO’s religiosity and the extent of tax aggressive behavior. Finally, the CEO’s involvement in Zakat payments is shown to mitigate the negative association between the CEO’s religiosity and the extent of tax aggressive behavior.

Originality/value

In contrast to prior research that examines the relationship between religiosity and tax aggressiveness within the context of other religions, particularly Christianity, in listed firms, and primarily considers the religiosity of the overall firm environment, the study centers on the CEO’s religiosity in private Islamic family firms. The Islamic context further enables us to investigate whether the fulfillment of Zakat diminishes the moral obligation experienced by religious CEOs to fulfill their tax responsibilities.
On the effect of military spending on education in Africa: what role does institutional quality play?
Authors: Raifu Isiaka Akande , Uzoma-Nwosu Damian Chidozie , Aminu Alarudeen
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study explored how institutional quality influences the relationship between military spending and education in Africa.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used data from 43 African countries spanning the years 2000–2021. Two estimation methods were employed to address various issues: Fixed Effects with Driscoll-Kraay standard errors and the Two-Step System Generalised Method of Moments. The Fixed Effects with Driscoll-Kraay standard error method was used to obtain reliable standard errors and inferences from the estimated coefficients of the fixed effects model. Meanwhile, the problem of endogeneity between military spending and education was addressed using the Two-Step System Generalized Method of Moments (GMM).

Findings

The results indicated that military spending negatively impacts both the quality and quantity of education. However, both institutional quality and the interaction term (institutional quality*military spending) have positive effects on both measures of education, suggesting that better institutional quality mitigates the negative effect of military spending on education outcomes.

Practical implications

This study shows that institutional quality dampens the negative effect of military spending on education, especially the quality of education. Hence, African countries should prioritize strengthening their institutions to ensure optimal allocation and utilization of government funds for the benefit of their citizens.

Originality/value

This is the first study to examine the moderating role of institutional quality in the relationship between military spending and education, focusing on both the quantity and quality of education.
Corporate criminal liability and the identification principle: a critical and comparative analysis across Mauritius, US, UK and Canada
Authors: Beebeejaun Ambareen , Mandarun Raahil
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The identification principle serves as a key tool in holding companies criminally accountable for acts of its agents, with the aim to secure convictions and promote a shift in corporate behaviour. Unfortunately, in Mauritius, the law is still not clear on how to engage the corporate criminal liability of the company although courts have attempted to apply the identification doctrine in some instances. Consequently, several corporate bodies are left unpunished for their criminal acts. Hence, the purpose of this paper is to evaluate the identification principle's applicability to corporate crimes in Mauritius.

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve the research objective, the black letter research method was adopted to collect secondary data by analysing the related laws on corporate criminal liability and a comparative analysis with some other countries’ rules on the subject matter was conducted. A desk-based approach and content analysis was used to collect this information. The countries selected for the comparison are the USA, UK and Canada.

Findings

From the critical analysis conducted in this paper, it is imperative for Mauritius to establish a more robust corporate criminal liability framework. The identified deficiencies, notably in Section 44(1)(a) of the Interpretation and General Clauses Act, should be reviewed and replaced with comprehensive norms with the goal of ensuring that corporate crimes are tackled properly. Such a proactive strategy not only empowers authorities to effectively address corporate crimes but also encourages corporate entities to take a proactive approach through the implementation of comprehensive compliance frameworks that are reviewed and updated on a regular basis.

Originality/value

At present, this study is among the few academic writings on corporate criminal liability in the context of Mauritius and it is being carried out with the aim of combining a large amount of empirical, theoretical and factual information that can be of use to various stakeholders and not only to academics.
Multidimensional frontline management styles: testing HRM strength, workgroup loyalty and helping behaviours
Authors: Cafferkey Kenneth , Townsend Keith , Riaz Safa , Bolt Ester Ellen Trees , Islam Md Shamirul
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the relationships between various frontline management (FLM) styles, human resource management system (HRM) system strength and employees' helping behaviours as a form of organisational citizenship behaviours (OCBs). The research also examines the moderating role of workgroup loyalty in the association between HRM system strength and employees' helping behaviours.

Design/methodology/approach

The research uses survey data collected from 315 government workers in Malaysia. Structural equation modelling (SEM) was employed to test the hypothesised relationships.

Findings

Two FLM styles, “policy enactor” and “employee coach,” positively predict employees' helping behaviour. However, the “organisational leader” FLM style did not significantly lead to employees' helping behaviour. HRM system strength significantly mediates the relationship between the three FLM styles and employee helping behaviours. Finally, workgroup loyalty significantly moderates the relationship between HRM system strength and employees’ helping behaviours as OCB.

Practical implications

With a wealth of literature demonstrating the importance of FLMs in the implementation of HRM and a growing body of literature demonstrating the robust nature of the “system strength” argument, human resource (HR) practitioners are increasingly able to focus their attention on the way the system and FLMs contribute to employee outcomes and organisational performance. Our results indicate that HRM system strength does indeed enhance the impact of FLM styles on employee helping behaviours.

Originality/value

The originality of this paper is that it acknowledges and empirically examines the heterogenous nature of FLM styles, through signalling theory in enacting HRM policies and links the growing FLM literature to the HRM system strength research. These concepts have also been tested for the first time in a Malaysian context.
Hotel room pricing and economic benefit for local economies: evidence from Canada
Authors: Dubé Jean , Lapointe Anthony , Martel Vincent , Placide Mackens Brejnev , Torres Ospino Isabel Victoria
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to estimate the price premium for a sea view on room rent in a Nordic context, i.e. where proximity to the sea is not valued for the presence of swimmable beaches and suntanning activities. The analysis also explores regional and seasonal variations in price premiums.

Design/methodology/approach

To do so, the study uses information from a Web search of room rents during winter and summer peak seasons. The investigation is based on hotels located along the St. Lawrence River in the Province of Quebec (Canada), where about 40 to 60 km separate both shores. A matching procedure and hedonic pricing models are used to identify the causal impact of a sea view on individual room rents.

Findings

Results suggest that the view price premium varies between 0% and 20%. It is relatively stable on the North Shore, but varies highly on the South Shore, where touristic activities are mainly operating in summertime. The estimation suggests a median local economic benefit of about $30.1M/year.

Practical implications

The analysis reveals that a hedonic pricing model might fail to identify causal effects, especially if it does not account for hotel characteristics. A multiple linear regression model does not ensure a causal interpretation if it neglects unobserved characteristics correlated with the view.

Originality/value

The paper proposes a matching identification procedure accounting for spatial confounding to retrieve the causal impact of the view of the sea on hotel room rents. A heterogeneity analysis suggests that view price premium on room rent can vary within seasons but mainly across regions, even for the same amenities.
CEO Locality and Corporate Social Responsibility
Authors: Chang Dianna , Chang Xin , Yan Weichen
Published: August 2024

We explore the geography of corporate social responsibility (CSR) by examining the relationship between chief executive officer (CEO) locality (i.e. whether CEOs work near their hometowns) and CSR performance. The CSR score of firms with local CEOs exceeds that of firms without local CEOs by an amount equivalent to 11.1% of the sample mean CSR score. Further, the effect of CEO locality on CSR is more evident for firms headquartered in regions with high social capital, exhibiting a long‐term orientation, practising good corporate governance, or led by CEOs with early‐life disaster experiences or political connections. Additional analysis reveals that local CEOs emphasize CSR initiatives that boost local stakeholder welfare, strengthening the positive connection between CSR and firm performance. Our findings imply that CEO locality enhances CSR because local CEOs’ familiarity with and strong ties to their hometown regions align with CSR's emphasis on local engagement.
Trends in fetal alcohol spectrum disorder research: A bibliometric review of original articles published between 2000 and 2023
Authors: McQuire Cheryl , Frennesson Nessie Felicia , Parsonage James , Van der Heiden Molly , Troy David , Zuccolo Luisa
Published: August 2024

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) is a leading cause of neurodevelopmental disability globally. International organizations have highlighted an urgent need for improved prevention, diagnosis, and support. However, the evidence base needed to inform this is thought to be limited. We conducted two complementary reviews to (i) describe trends in the volume and characteristics of original FASD research articles (Review 1) and (ii) compare the volume of published research on FASD to that of other neurodevelopmental disorders (Review 2). In Review 1, we systematically searched MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL and PsycInfo for original studies with FASD terms in the title, published between 2000 and 2023. We summarised study characteristics including the article topic(s), sample population, country of origin, and publication year using quantitative content analysis and time‐series plots. A total of 854 studies were eligible. Studies showed a relative focus on diagnosis and screening, compared to prevention and intervention. FASD research originated from 31 countries, however most countries (68%) had fewer than 10 articles published over the 23‐year review period. In Review 2, we searched PubMed for records published between 2000 and 2023 with FASD, autism, or attention‐deficit‐hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) terms in the title. We compared the volume of records for these conditions using descriptive statistics and time‐series plots. Of the 64,069 records retrieved, 2% were for FASD, compared to 60% for autism and 38% for ADHD. FASD remains considerably under‐researched. While there has been an increase in the number of original FASD research articles published annually over time, this is much lower than expected compared to publication trends for other neurodevelopmental conditions, and the wider scientific literature. Further research is needed to understand the impact of FASD across the lifespan, to inform evidence‐based policy and support, and to advance progress in strength‐based, stigma‐reducing approaches to FASD research and practice.
How exome sequencing improves the diagnostics and management of men with non‐syndromic infertility
Authors: Stallmeyer Birgit , Dicke Ann‐Kristin , Tüttelmann Frank
Published: August 2024

Male infertility affects approximately 17% of all men and represents a complex disorder in which not only semen parameters such as sperm motility, morphology, and number of sperm are highly variable, but also testicular phenotypes range from normal spermatogenesis to complete absence of germ cells. Genetic factors significantly contribute to the disease but chromosomal aberrations, mostly Klinefelter syndrome, and microdeletions of the Y‐chromosome have remained the only diagnostically and clinically considered genetic causes. Monogenic causes remain understudied and, thus, often unidentified, leaving the majority of the male factor couple infertility pathomechanistically unexplained. This has been changing mostly because of the introduction of exome sequencing that allows the analysis of multiple genes in large patient cohorts. As a result, pathogenic variants in single genes have been associated with non‐syndromic forms of all aetiologic sub‐categories in the last decade.

This review highlights the contribution of exome sequencing to the identification of novel disease genes for isolated (non‐syndromic) male infertility by presenting the results of a comprehensive literature search. Both, reduced sperm count in azoospermic and oligozoospermic patients, and impaired sperm motility and/or morphology, in asthenozoospermic and/or teratozoospermic patients are highly heterogeneous diseases with well over 100 different candidate genes described for each entity. Applying the standardized evaluation criteria of the ClinGen gene curation working group, 70 genes with at least moderate evidence to contribute to the disease are highlighted. The implementation of these valid disease genes in clinical exome sequencing is important to increase the diagnostic yield in male infertility and, thus, improve clinical decision‐making and appropriate genetic counseling.

Future advances in androgenetics will continue to depend on large‐scale exome and genome sequencing studies of comprehensive international patient cohorts, which are the most promising approaches to identify additional disease genes and provide reliable data on the gene–disease relationship.
Engineered nanoparticles potentials in male reproduction
Authors: Zhao Feifei , Fan Mengyu , Jing Zhiyang , Zhang Yanxu , Wang Yanlin , Zhou Congli , Liu Yang , Aitken Robert John , Xia Xue
Published: August 2024

Background

The escalating prevalence of fertility problems in the aging population necessitates a comprehensive exploration of contributing factors, extending beyond environmental concerns, work‐related stress, and unhealthy lifestyles. Among these, the rising incidence of testicular disorders emerges as a pivotal determinant of fertility issues. Current treatment challenges are underscored by the limitations of high‐dose and frequent drug administration, coupled with substantial side effects and irreversible trauma inflicted by surgical interventions on testicular tissue.

Material and methods

The formidable barrier posed by the blood–testis barrier compounds the complexities of treating testicular diseases, presenting a significant therapeutic obstacle. The advent of nanocarriers, with their distinctive attributes, holds promise in overcoming this impediment. These nanocarriers exhibit exceptional biocompatibility, and membrane penetration capabilities, and can strategically target the blood–testis barrier through surface ligand modification, thereby augmenting drug bioavailability and enhancing therapeutic efficacy.

Results and discussion

This review concentrates on the transformative potential of nanocarriers in the delivery of therapeutic agents to testicular tissue. By summarizing key applications, we illuminate the strides made in utilizing nanocarriers as a novel avenue to effectively treat testicular diseases.

Conclusions

Nanocarriers are critical in delivering therapeutic agents to testicular tissue.
Phenotypic continuum and poor intracytoplasmic sperm injection intracytoplasmic sperm injection prognosis in patients harboring HENMT1 variants
Authors: Wehbe Zeina , Barbotin Anne‐Laure , Boursier Angèle , Cazin Caroline , Hograindleur Jean‐Pascal , Bidart Marie , Fontaine Emeline , Plouvier Pauline , Puch Florence , Satre Véronique , Arnoult Christophe , Mustapha Selima Fourati Ben , Zouari Raoudha , Thierry‑Mieg Nicolas , Ray Pierre F. , Kherraf Zine‑Eddine , Coutton Charles , Martinez Guillaume
Published: August 2024

Background

Small RNAs interacting with PIWI (piRNAs) play a crucial role in regulating transposable elements and translation during spermatogenesis and are essential in male germ cell development. Disruptions in the piRNA pathway typically lead to severe spermatogenic defects and thus male infertility. The HENMT1 gene is a key player in piRNAs primary biogenesis and dysfunction of HENMT1 protein in meiotic and haploid germ cells resulted in the loss of piRNA methylation, piRNA instability, and TE de‐repression. Henmt1‐knockout mice exhibit a severe oligo‐astheno‐teratozoospermia (OAT) phenotype, whereas patients with HENMT1 variants display more severe azoospermia phenotypes, ranging from meiotic arrest to hypospermatogenesis. Through whole‐exome sequencing (WES) of infertile patient cohorts, we identified two new patients with variants in the HENMT1 gene presenting spermatozoa in their ejcaulate, providing us the opportunity to study spermatozoa from these patients.

Objectives

Investigate the spermatozoa of two patients harboring an HENMT1 variant to determine whether or not these scarce spermatozoa could be used with assisted reproductive technologies.

Materials and methods

HENMT1 variants identified by WES were validated through Sanger sequencing. Comprehensive semen analysis was conducted, and sperm cells were subjected to transmission electron microscopy for structural examination, in situ hybridization for aneuploidy assessment, and aniline blue staining for DNA compaction status. Subsequently, we assessed their suitability for in vitro fertilization using intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF‐ICSI).

Results

Our investigations revealed a severe OAT phenotype similar to knockout mice, revealing altered sperm concentration, mobility, morphology, aneuploidy and nuclear compaction defects. Multiple IVF‐ICSI attempts were also performed, but no live births were achieved.

Discussion

We confirm the crucial role of HENMT1 in spermatogenesis and highlight a phenotypic continuum associated with HENMT1 variants. Unfortunately, the clinical outcome of these genetic predispositions remains unfavorable, regardless of the patient's phenotype.

Conclusion

The presence of spermatozoa is insufficient to anticipate ICSI pregnancy success in HENMT1 patients.
First successful implant of BiVACOR's Total Artificial Heart
Authors: Shah Aakash M.
Published: August 2024

BiVACOR's Total Artificial Heart has been successfully implanted in a patient at Baylor St. Luke's Medical Center in the Texas Medical Center. The patient survived with the device for 8 days before receiving a heart transplant. This success stemmed from collaboration between BiVACOR Inc. and a team of cardiac surgeons at the Texas Heart Institute, including William E. Cohn, M.D., and Oscar H. Frazier, MD.
The effects of drone transportation on blood component quality: A prospective randomised controlled laboratory study
Authors: Wiltshire Michael , Boxshall Jonathan , Milne James , Oleniacz Katarzyna , Theobald Katherine , Phillips Benedict
Published: August 2024

The use of uncrewed aerial vehicles (drones) has increased over the last decade. However, their application in healthcare has not been fully examined, in part, due to regulations preventing flight beyond the visual line of sight. This prospective randomised controlled laboratory study aimed to determine whether the in vitro quality of packed red blood cell components is maintained when transported by drone, beyond visual line of sight. Ten identical pairs of packed red blood cell units were randomly allocated to transport by drone or by ground vehicle (1:1, allocation concealment) 68 km between two hospitals in Northumbria, UK. Markers of blood component quality were compared at 8, 14, 28 and 35 days following blood unit manufacture. There was no statistical difference in haemolysis, potassium concentration, total haemoglobin, glucose and lactate, haematocrit and mean cell volume, between the two groups, up to the date of unit expiry. The temperature of the packed red blood cell units did not deviate outside the recommended 2–10°C for transportation, regardless of the allocated group. Blood component transport was faster by drone, but did not reach statistical significance. This study demonstrates the feasibility and safety of flying blood components by drone between hospitals in the United Kingdom.
Establishment of a new vault prediction formula after implantable collamer lens implantation based on factor analysis of multi‐modal ophthalmic parameters of anterior and posterior chamber
Authors: Xu Yijia , Liu Fang , Ye Yuhao , Zhang Zhe , Niu Lingling , Yao Peijun , Wang Xiaoying , Zhou Xingtao , Zhao Jing
Published: August 2024

Background

To establish a novel vault prediction formula after implantable collamer lens (ICL) implantation that considers both anterior and posterior chamber characteristics with multi‐modal parameters.

Methods

A total of 103 and 65 eyes were included in the development and validation groups, respectively. Exploratory factor analysis was performed using data from optical coherence tomography and ultrasound biomicroscopy in the development group to synthesise summative factors with different clinical significance. Dominant original metrics with heavy loadings on significant factors (absolute value of the loading coefficient >0.5) were screened for multivariate linear regression models using a stepwise method. The newly derived formula was evaluated and compared to the NK and KS formulas in the validation group.

Results

Six factors (anterior chamber angle, horizontal width, lens, iris, iridociliary complex and ciliary body) were generated after dimension reduction via factor analysis. Factors 2 (horizontal width), 3 (lens), and 5 (iridociliary complex) had a significant influence on the vault. When dominant metrics on these factors were screened for further model building, ICL size, anterior chamber width, crystalline lens rise, iris curvature, and iris‐ciliary process distance were retained in the final formula, with an adjusted R2 of 0.698, a median absolute error of 81.97 mm, and a root‐mean‐square error of 103.35 mm.

Conclusions

Multiple intraocular components, including the lens, iris, and ciliary body, play important roles in vault determination. The new formula exhibits good accuracy for vault predictions and ICL size recommendations.
Utility of Quadratus Lumborum Blocks in Patients Who Undergo Liver Transplant: A Single‐Center Retrospective Study
Authors: McCoy Nicole C. , Sirianni Joel M. , Abro Joseph , Massman Kaylee , Wolf Bethany J. , Stoll William D.
Published: August 2024

Background

Regional anesthesia is an alternative to opioids for pain in patients undergoing liver transplantation. Quadratus lumborum blocks may provide appropriate dermatomal coverage with an excellent safety profile.

Methods

Data were collected retrospectively on adult patients who underwent liver transplant at an academic medical center from 2019 to 2022 (n = 207). The primary outcome was opioid administration during the 48 h after transplant.

Results

Patient demographics did not differ between groups. No association was found between patients who received a block and postoperative opioid administration (p = 0.848). However, among patients extubated in the operating room, patients who received a block reported, on average, a 0.9‐unit lower pain score than patients who received no block (p = 0.041). Patients who received a block were also more likely to be extubated in the operating room (87.8% block vs. 44.4% no block; p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Patients who underwent liver transplantation had similar postoperative opioid use whether or not they received a quadratus lumborum block. Yet, when evaluating additional factors, such as extubation, pain scores were lower in patients who received a quadratus lumborum block. This important finding supports the idea that quadratus lumborum blocks may be a safe and valuable technique for controlling postoperative pain in adult patients who undergo liver transplantation.
Validation of clinically related aging models based on enamel wear
Authors: Hajhamid Beshr , Bozec Laurent , Moghadam Hassan , Tenenbaum Howard , De Souza Grace M. , Somogyi‐Ganss Eszter
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Physiological and erosive wear reported in clinical studies were reviewed, and in vitro aging models were developed to simulate and compare the effect of aging on human teeth with the review data obtained from clinical studies.

Methods

A review of clinical studies and randomized clinical trials that quantify enamel wear was performed in the PubMed database. The first in vitro analysis evaluated the effect of mechanical chewing simulation only. Enamel specimens were aged in the chewing simulator (up to 1.2 million cycles) with two occlusal loads (30 and 50 N). In the second in vitro analysis, specimens were aged in two aging models. The first model (MT) simulated mechanical and thermal oral challenges: MT1‐ 240,000 chewing and 10,000 thermal cycles, MT2‐ 480,000 chewing and 20,000 thermal cycles, MT3‐ 1.2 million chewing and 50,000 thermal cycles. The second model (MTA) simulated mechanical, thermal, and acidic oral challenges as follows: MTA1‐ 240,000 chewing, 10,000 thermal and 3‐h acidic cycles; MTA2: 480,000 chewing, 20,000 thermal and 6‐h acidic cycles, MTA3‐ 1.2 million chewing, 50,000 thermal and 15‐h acidic cycles.

Results

The review included 13 clinical studies evaluating tooth wear (eight physiological and five erosive). The results estimated the annual average physiological wear as 38.4 µm (9.37‐51). In comparison, the MT1 showed wear of 60 (24) µm. Also, the average annual erosive wear in the literature was 179.5 µm (70‐265) compared to MTA1‐induced wear of 209 (14) µm.

Conclusion

There was wide variation in tooth wear reported in clinical studies, suggesting a critical need for more accurate studies, possibly based on scanning technologies. Despite this, the data reported using the novel aging models are within a range to be considered consistent with and to simulate tooth wear measured in vivo.
Antimicrobial efficacy of chitosan versus sodium hypochlorite: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Cakici Fatih , Cakici Elif Bahar
Published: August 2024

Aim

This meta‐analysis aimed to compare the antibacterial efficacy of chitosan/chitosan nanoparticles (Ch/Ch‐NPs) versus sodium hypochlorite/chlorhexidine (NaOCl/CHX).

Materials and Methods

A search was performed in four electronic databases until December 08, 2023. Studies with missing, unclear, and insufficient data sets were excluded. The included studies were assessed by two independent reviewers using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist for Quasi‐Experimental Studies. The meta‐analysis of standardized mean difference was performed using a random effects model. Additionally, funnel plots as well as Egger's regression intercept test were used to evaluate potential publication bias.

Results

A total of 426 samples were used in nine included studies. There was no difference in antibacterial efficacy between Ch/Ch‐NPs‐NaOCl (SMD: 0.005; 95% CI: −0.844–0.854; p = 0.990). However, the antibacterial efficacy of NaOCl was statistically more effective than Ch/Ch‐NPs (SMD: 0.807; 95% CI: 0.015–1.599; p = 0.046) using the bacterial culture method, and Ch/Ch‐NPs was statistically higher than NaOCl (SMD: −1.827; 95% CI: −2.720, −0.934; p < 0.000) using confocal laser scanning microscopy.

Conclusions

Ch/Ch‐NPs may be an alternative to NaOCl against Enterococcus faecalis. The methods used in the in vitro studies evaluating the antibacterial efficacy of irrigation solutions against E. faecalis may have had an impact on the results.