bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Will ChatGPT Match to Your Program?
Authors: Zumsteg Jennifer M. , Junn Cherry
Published: March 2023

ChatGPT and other artificial intelligence (AI) word prediction large database models are now readily available to the public. Program directors should be aware of the general features of this technology and consider its effect in graduate medical education, including the preparation of materials such as personal statements. The authors provide a sample ChatGPT-generated personal statement and general considerations for program directors and other graduate medical education stakeholders. The authors advocate that programs and applicants will be best served by transparent expectations about how/if programs will accept application materials created using AI, starting with this application cycle. Graduate medical education will have many additional factors to consider for the innovative use and safeguards for the ethical application of AI in clinical care and educational processes. However, the exponential increase in the application of this technology requires an urgent review for appropriate management of program procedures, iteration of policies, and a meaningful national discussion.
Carbodiimide Derivatized Synovial Fluid for Tendon Graft Coating Improves Long-Term Functional Outcomes of Flexor Tendon Reconstruction
Authors: Reisdorf Ramona L. , Liu Haoyu , Bi Chun , Vrieze Alyssa M. , Moran Steven L. , Amadio Peter C. , Zhao Chunfeng
Published: March 2023

Background:

Flexor digitorum profundus (FDP) tendon injury is common in hand trauma, and flexor tendon reconstruction is one of the most challenge procedures in hand surgery due to severe adhesion that exceed 25% and hinders hand function. Surface property of graft from extrasynovial tendons is inferior to the native intrasynovial FDP tendons, which has been reported as one of the major causations. Improve surface gliding ability of extrasynovial graft is needed. Thus, this study was to use carbodiimide derivatized synovial fluid and gelatin (cd-SF-gel) to modify the graft surface thus improving functional outcomes using a dog in-vivo model.

Methods:

40 flexor digitorum profundus tendons (FDP) from the second and fifth digits of 20 adult female underwent reconstruction with peroneus longus (PL) autograft after creation of tendon repair failure model for six weeks. Graft tendons were either coated with or without de-SF-gel (n=20). Animals were sacrificed 24 weeks following reconstruction and digits were collected post-sacrifice for biomechanical and histological analyses.

Results:

Adhesion score (cd-SF-Gel 3.15±1.53, control 5±1.26 (p<0.00017)), normalized work of flexion (cd-SF-gel 0.47 N-mm/degree±0.28, control 1.4 N-mm/degree±1.45 (p<0.014)), DIP motion (cd-SF-gel (DIP 17.63⁰±6.77⁰, control (DIP 7.07⁰±12.99⁰) (p<0.0015)) in treated graft all showed significant differences compared to non-treated graft. However, there was no significant difference in repair conjunction strength between two groups.

Conclusions:

Autograft tendon surface modification with cd-SF-Gel improves tendon gliding ability, reduces adhesion formation, and enhances digit function without interfering with graft-host healing.
“Use of Treatments After Recovering from Thumb Carpometacarpal Arthritis Surgery
Authors: Yousaf Imran S. , Sanghavi Kavya K. , Higgins James P. , Giladi Aviram M. , Means Kenneth R.
Published: March 2023

Background:

What treatments patients continue to use more than 1 year after primary thumb carpometacarpal (CMC) arthritis surgery, and how such use relates to patient-reported outcomes, is largely unknown.

Methods:

We identified patients who had isolated primary trapeziectomy alone or with ligament reconstruction ± tendon interposition (LR±TI) and were 1 to 4 years post-operative. Participants completed a surgical site-focused electronic questionnaire about what treatments they still used. Patient-reported outcomes measures (PROMs) were the Quick Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (qDASH) questionnaire and Visual Analog/Numerical Rating Scales (VA/NRS) for current pain, pain with activities, and typical worst pain.

Results:

One hundred twelve patients met inclusion and exclusion criteria and participated. At a median of 3 years after surgery, over 40% reported current use of at least one treatment for their thumb CMC surgical site, with 22% using more than one treatment. Of those who still used treatments, 48% used over-the-counter medications (OTC), 34% used home or office-based hand therapy, 29% used splinting, 25% used prescription medications, and 4% used corticosteroid injections. One hundred eight participants completed all PROMs. With bivariate analyses we found use of any treatment after recovering from surgery was associated with statistically and clinically significantly worse scores for all measures.

Conclusions:

Clinically relevant proportions of patients continue to use various treatments a median of 3 years following primary thumb CMC arthritis surgery. Continued use of any treatment is associated with significantly worse patient-reported outcomes for function and pain.

Level of Evidence:

IV
Prospective Cohort Study Comparing Ligament Reconstruction with Tendon Interposition and Suture-Only Suspension Arthroplasty for the Treatment of Basal Joint Arthritis
Authors: Suszynski Thomas M , Fowler John R , Munsch Maria , Bourne Debra A , Chow Ian , Balk Marshall L , Hagberg William C , Buterbaugh Glenn A , Sivak Wesley N , Imbriglia Joseph E
Published: March 2023

Basal joint arthritis is a common form of osteoarthritis. There is no consensus procedure for maintenance of trapezial height following trapeziectomy. Suture-only suspension arthroplasty (SSA) is a simple method for stabilizing the thumb metacarpal following trapeziectomy.

This single-institution prospective cohort study compares trapeziectomy followed by either ligament reconstruction with tendon interposition (LRTI) or SSA for the treatment of basal joint arthritis. Patients underwent LRTI or SSA from 5/2018-12/2019. VAS pain scores, DASH functional scores, clinical thumb ROM, pinch and grip strength data, and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) were recorded and analyzed preoperatively, and at 6-weeks and 6-months postoperatively.

Total number of study participants was 45 (LRTI 26, SSA 19). Mean (± standard error, SE) age was 62.4 (±1.5) years, with 71% female, and 51% operated were on the dominant side. VAS scores improved for LRTI and SSA (p<0.0001) over 6-months, with no differences between groups at any timepoint (p>0.3). DASH scores improved for LRTI and SSA over 6-months (p<0.0001), with no differences between groups at any timepoint (p>0.3). Following SSA, opposition improved (p=0.02), but not as well for LRTI (p=0.16). Grip and pinch strength decreased following LRTI and SSA at 6-weeks but recovered similarly for both groups over 6-months. PROs were generally no different between groups at all timepoints.

LRTI and SSA are similar procedures following trapeziectomy relative to pain, function and strength recovery.
Primary Repair versus Reverse End-to-Side Coaptation by Anterior Interosseous Nerve Transfer in Proximal Ulnar Nerve Injuries
Authors: Gonzalez Gilberto A. , Polmear Michael , Carter Jordan T. , Castagno Christopher , Herrera Fernando
Published: March 2023

Background:

Proximal ulnar nerve lacerations are challenging to treat due to the complex integration of sensory and motor function in the hand. The purpose of this study was to compare primary repair and primary repair plus anterior interosseous nerve (AIN) reverse end-to-side (RETS) coaptation in the setting of proximal ulnar nerve injuries.

Methods:

A prospective cohort study was performed of all patients at a single, academic, level 1 trauma center from 2014-2018 presenting with isolated complete ulnar nerve lacerations. Patients underwent either primary repair (PR) only or primary repair and AIN RETS (PR+RETS). Data collected included demographic information, quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (qDASH), Medical Research Council (MRC) scores, grip and pinch strength, and Visual Analog Scale pain scores at 6 and 12 months post-operatively.

Results:

Sixty patients were included in the study: 28 in the PR group and 32 in the RETS+PR group. There was no difference in demographic variables or location of injury between the two groups. Average qDASH scores for the PR and PR+RETS groups were 65 ± 6 and 36 ± 4 at six months and 46 ± 4 and 24 ± 3 at 12 months postoperatively, respectively, and were significantly lower in the PR+RETS group at both points. Average grip and pinch strength were significantly greater for the PR+RETS group at 6 and 12 months.

Conclusions:

This study demonstrated primary repair of proximal ulnar nerve injuries plus AIN RETS coaptation yielded superior strength and improved upper extremity function when compared to primary repair alone.
Distal Ulnar Bifurcation Arthroplasty in the Treatment of Bayne and Klug Types 3 and 4 Radial Club Hands: Preliminary Outcomes
Authors: Jia Ya-chao , Zhao Hao-yu , Wu Tian-yi , Xu Jia , Kang Qing-lin
Published: March 2023

Background:

The treatment of Bayne and Klug types 3 and 4 radial club hands remains challenging and controversial. In this study, the authors reported a new procedure called distal ulnar bifurcation arthroplasty and reviewed the preliminary results.

Methods:

Between 2015 and 2019, 11 patients with 15 affected forearms having type 3 or 4 radial club hands underwent distal ulnar bifurcation arthroplasty. The mean age was 55.5 months (range, 29 to 86 months). The surgical protocol consisted of (1) bifurcation of the distal ulnar to accommodate the wrist with stable support; (2) pollicization to treat hypoplastic or absent thumb; (3) in the case of significant bowed ulna, ulnar corrective osteotomy was performed. In all patients, clinical and radiologic parameters including hand-forearm angle, hand-forearm position, ulnar length, wrist stability and motion were recorded.

Results:

The mean duration of follow-up was 42.2 months (range, 24 to 60 months). The average correction of hand-forearm angle was 80.2 degrees. The overall range of active wrist motion was approximately 87.5 degrees. Ulna growth per year was 6.7 mm (range 5.2 to 9.2 mm). No major complications were recorded during follow up.

Conclusions:

The distal ulnar bifurcation arthroplasty offers a technically feasible alternative for the treatment of type 3 or 4 radial club hand, which enables satisfactory appearance, provides stable support to the wrist and maintains wrist function. Despite the promising preliminary results, longer follow-up is necessary to evaluate this procedure.
Quantifying the Impact of Genetics on Neurocognition in Non-Syndromic Sagittal Craniosynostosis
Authors: Junn Alexandra , Dinis Jacob , Long Aaron , Timberlake Andrew T. , Persing John A. , Alperovich Michael
Published: March 2023

Background:

Previous work has identified an association between de novo and transmitted loss of function mutations in genes under high evolutionary constraint (high pLI) with neurodevelopmental delays in non-syndromic craniosynostosis (NSC). We sought to quantify the neurocognitive effect of these genetic lesions.

Methods:

In a prospective, double-blinded cohort study, demographic surveys and neurocognitive tests were administered to patients recruited from a national sample of children with sagittal NSC. Scores for academic achievement, full-scale intelligence quotient (FSIQ), and visuomotor skills were directly compared between patients with and without damaging mutations in high pLI genes using two-tailed t tests. Analysis of covariance was also used to compare test scores while controlling for surgery type, age at surgery, and sociodemographic risk.

Results:

56 patients completed neurocognitive testing, 18 of whom had a mutation in a highly constrained gene. There was no significant difference between groups in any sociodemographic factors. After controlling for patient factors, patients with high-risk mutations had poorer performance compared to patients without high-risk mutations in every testing category, with significant differences in FSIQ (102.9 ± 11.4 vs. 110.1 ± 11.3, P=0.033) and visuomotor integration (100.0 ± 11.9 vs. 105.2 ± 9.5, P=0.003). There were no significant differences in neurocognitive outcome when stratifying groups based on type of surgery or age at time of surgery.

Conclusions:

Even after controlling for exogenous factors, the presence of mutations in high-risk genes led to poorer neurocognitive outcomes. High risk genotypes may predispose individuals with NSC to deficits, particularly in full-scale IQ and visuomotor integration
Cartilage-Sparing Otoplasty – A New Approach
Authors: Benkler Michal , Weiss Nathaniel , Egozi Dana , Dolgunin Luda , Kouniavski Elizaveta
Published: March 2023

Ear protrusion is the primary indication for otoplasty. Many methods have been developed for addressing this defect, based on cartilage-scoring/excision and suture-fixation techniques. However, disadvantages include either irreversible distortion of the anatomy, irregularities, or overcorrection; or forward bulging of the conchal bowl. One of the most common long-term sequelae of otoplasty is an unsatisfactory result. A novel, cartilage-sparing, suture-based technique has been developed that aims to minimize the risk of complications and provide a natural-appearing aesthetic result. The method is based on two-to-three key sutures that shape the concha into the desired natural appearance while preventing a conchal bulge, which could otherwise appear if no cartilage is removed. Furthermore, these sutures support the neo-antihelix created by four further sutures anchored to the mastoid fascia, thus achieving the two main goals of otoplasty. The sparing of cartilaginous tissue means that the procedure is reversible if needed. In addition, permanent postoperative stigmata, pathologic scarring and anatomical deformity can be avoided. This technique was used on 91 ears in 2020–2021, with only 1 ear (1.1%) requiring revision. Rates of complications or recurrence were low. Overall, it appears to be a rapid and safe method for treating the prominent ear deformity, with aesthetically pleasing results.
Molecular scalpels: the future of pediatric craniofacial surgery?
Authors: Timberlake Andrew T.
Published: March 2023

CRISPR-Cas genome editing tools are among the most substantial advances in the life sciences in modern history. Single dose gene therapies to correct pathogenic mutations have moved quickly from bench to bedside, with several therapeutics designed by CRISPR pioneers entering various stages of clinical investigation. Applications of these genetic technologies are poised to reshape the practice of both medicine and surgery. Many of the most morbid conditions treated by craniofacial surgeons are syndromic craniosynostoses caused by mutations in fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) genes, including Apert, Pfeiffer, Crouzon, and Muenke syndromes. The fact that pathogenic mutations in these genes are recurrent in the majority of affected families presents a unique opportunity to develop “off the shelf” gene editing therapies to correct these mutations in affected children. The therapeutic potential of these interventions could reshape pediatric craniofacial surgery, potentially first eliminating the need for midface advancement procedures in affected children.
Novel treatment protocol for combined tear through ligament stretching and injection
Authors: Philippe Berros , Atlan Lilian , Hubschman Sasha , Converset Sophie , Enright Kaitlyn M. , Nikolis Andreas
Published: March 2023

Introduction:

Complex anatomical changes have been the main challenges for optimal treatment results of tear trough deformities through hyaluronic acid (HA) injections. This study presents a novel technique consisting of a pre-injection tear trough ligament stretching (TTLS-I) leading to its release, and compared its efficacy, safety and patient satisfaction to tear trough deformity injection (TTDI).

Method:

This was 4-year retrospective single-center cohort study of 83 TTLS-I patients, with a follow-up period of one year. One hundred and thirty five TTDI patients served as a comparison group.

Outcome analyses included the analysis of possible risk factors for adverse outcome, as well as comparative statistics between the complication and satisfaction rates among the two groups.

Results:

TTLS-I patients received significantly less hyaluronic acid (HA) (0.3cc (0.2cc-0.3cc)) than TTDI patients (0.6cc (0.6cc-0.8cc), p<0.001). The injected HA amount was a significant predictive factor for complications (p<0.05).

Complication rates assessed during the follow-up visit for hematomas, edema, as well as the need for corrective hyaluronidase injection were low in both groups, with no significant differences among both groups. TTDI patients had significantly higher rates (5.1%) of lump surface irregularities during follow-up compared to 0% in the TTLS-I group (p<0.05).

After one year of follow-up, 98.8% of TTLS-I patients were satisfied whereas TTDI patients were satisfied in 95.6%, with no significant difference.

Conclusion:

TTLS-I is a novel, safe and effective treatment method, necessitating significantly less HA compared to TTDI. Moreover, it leads to very high satisfaction, as well as very low complication rates.
Brief Report: The Influence of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Physical, Social, and Mental Health of Black and Latinx Young People With HIV in the United States
Authors: Sauceda John A. , Dubé Karine , Harris Orlando , Campbell Chadwick K. , Ndukwe Samuel , Saberi Parya
Published: March 2023

Background:

Whereas national attention has been paid to the ongoing mental health crises among young people triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic, less is known about the social, physical and psychological impacts of COVID-19 on young people living with HIV, especially racial/ethnic minorities.

Setting:

Online survey of participants across the U.S.

Method:

A national cross-sectional survey of non-Latinx Black and Latinx young adults (18–29) living with HIV. Between April and August 2021, participants answered survey questions about several domains (eg, stress, anxiety, relationships, work, quality of life) that were worsened, improved, or unchanged during the pandemic. We ran a logistic regression estimating the self-reported impact of the pandemic on these domains between 2 age groups (ages 18–24 versus 25–29).

Results:

The sample size was 231 (186 non-Latinx Black, 45 Latinx) and mainly male (84.4%) and gay identified (62.2%). Nearly 20% of participants were 18–24 years old and 80% were ages 25–29. Participants who were 18–24 years old reported 2–3 times the odds for having worse sleep quality and mood and greater stress, anxiety, and weight gain compared with those 25–29 years old.

Conclusion:

Our data provide a nuanced picture of the negative impacts that COVID-19 had on non-Latinx Black and Latinx young adults living with HIV in the U.S. Given that these adults represent a priority population for HIV treatment outcomes, it is critical to better understand the ongoing toll that these dual pandemics have on their lives.
Mapping Patient Encounters in Breast Cancer Care
Authors: Sergesketter Amanda R. , Mundy Lily R. , Geng Yisong , Shammas Ronnie L. , Langdell Hannah C. , Wang Sabrina M. , Njoroge Moreen , Stukes Bryanna , Hollenbeck Scott T.
Published: March 2023

Background

Transitions toward value-based systems require a comprehensive definition of the complexity and duration of provider effort required for a given diagnosis. This study modeled the numbers of clinical encounters involved in various treatment pathways among breast cancer patients undergoing mastectomy.

Methods

Clinical encounters with medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, breast surgeons, or plastic surgeons ≤4 years after diagnosis among all patients undergoing mastectomy from 2017 to 2018 were reviewed. Relative encounter volumes were modeled each 90-day period after diagnosis.

Results

A total of 8807 breast cancer–related encounters from 221 patients were analyzed, with mean (SD) encounter volume 39.9 (27.2) encounters per patient. Most encounters occurred in the first year after diagnosis (70.0%), with years 2, 3, and 4 representing 15.8%, 9.1%, and 3.5% of encounters, respectively. Overall stage was associated with encounter volume, with higher encounter volume with increasing stage (stages 0: 27.4 vs I: 28.5 vs II: 48.4 vs III: 61.1 vs IV: 80.8 mean encounters). Body mass index (odds ratio [OR], 0.22), adjuvant radiation (OR, 6.8), and receipt of breast reconstruction (OR, 3.5) were also associated with higher encounter volume (all P’s < 0.01). Duration of encounter volume varied by treatment phases, with medical oncology and plastic surgery sustaining high clinical encounter volume 3 years after diagnosis.

Conclusions

Encounter utilization in breast cancer care persists 3 years after index diagnosis and is influenced by overall stage and treatment characteristics, including receipt of breast reconstruction. These results may inform the design of episode durations within value-based models and institutional resource allocation for breast cancer care.
Transglenoidal Approach in Pigmented Villonodular Synovitis of the Temporomandibular Joint
Authors: Cordero García Teresa , Pisonero Alonso Patricia , López Martos Ricardo
Published: March 2023

Pigmented villonodular synovitis is a benign pathology with locally aggressive behavior caused by an uncontrolled proliferation of the articular synovial membranes. Here the authors present a case of pigmented villonodular synovitis of the temporomandibular joint with middle cranial fossa extension and review the different management options including surgery, which have been proposed to target this condition in the recent literature.
Change in CT Value at Mandibular Ramus After Mandibular Setback and Advancement Surgery With Bicortical Absorbable Plate Fixation
Authors: Ueki Koichiro , Moroi Akinori , Takayama Akihiro , Gomi Karen , Takekawa Takahiro , Yoshizawa Kunio
Published: March 2023

Purpose:

This study aimed to evaluate changes in computed tomography (CT) value of ramus bone after sagittal split ramus osteotomy (SSRO) in class II and class III patients using absorbable plates and screws.

Patients and Methods:

In the retrospective study, the participants were female patients with jaw deformities who underwent bilateral SSRO with Le Fort I osteotomy. Maximum CT values (pixel values) of lateral and medial cortexes at anterior and posterior sites of the ramus were measured preoperatively and 1 year postoperatively by using horizontal planes at the mandibular foramen level (upper level) and 10 mm under the mandibular foramen level (lower level) parallel to Frankfurt horizontal plane.

Results:

Fifty-seven patients and 114 sides (28 class II: 56 sides and 29 class III: 58 sides) were evaluated. Although CT values decreased at most sites of the ramus cortical bone after 1 year of surgery, they increased at the posterior-medial site at the upper level in class II (P=0.0012) and the lower level in class III (P=0.0346).

Conclusion:

This study suggested that bone quality at the mandibular ramus could change after 1 year of surgery, and there could be differences between mandibular advancement and setback surgery.
Anxiety, depression, and insomnia among nurses during the full liberalization of COVID-19: A multicenter cross-sectional analysis of the high-income region in China
Authors: Xiao Julan , Liu Lili , Peng Yueming , Wen Yi , Lv Xia , Liang Lijun , Fan Yi , Chen Jie , Chen Yanru , Hu Hongying , Peng Weisi , Wang Haiyan , Luo Weixiang
Published: March 2023

Aims and objectives

This study demonstrates the impact of the full liberalization of COVID-19 on the psychological issues and the prevalence rate and associated factors of depressive symptoms, anxiety, and insomnia among frontline nurses.

Background

It has been demonstrated that frontline nurses fighting against the epidemic were under great psychological stress. However, there is a lack of studies assessing the prevalence rates of anxiety, depression, and insomnia among frontline nurses after the full liberalization of COVID-19 in China.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Methods

Of 1766 frontline nurses were invited to complete a self-reported online questionnaire by convenience sampling. The survey included six main sections: the Patient Health Questionnaire, the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale, the Insomnia Severity Index, the Perceived Stress Scale, sociodemographic information, and work information. Multiple logistic regression analyses were applied to identify the potential risk factors for psychological issues. Reporting of this research according to the STROBE checklist.

Results

90.83% of frontline nurses were infected with COVID-19, and 33.64% had to work while infected COVID-19. The overall prevalence of depressive symptoms, anxiety and insomnia among frontline nurses was 69.20%, 62.51%, and 76.78%, respectively. Multiple logistic analyses revealed that job satisfaction, attitude toward the current pandemic management, and perceived stress were associated with depressive symptoms, anxiety, and insomnia.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that the full liberalization of COVID-19 had a significant psychological impact on frontline nurses. Early detection of mental health issues and preventive and promotive interventions should be implemented according to the associated factors to improve mental health of nurses.

Relevance to clinical practice

This study highlighted that nurses were suffering from varying degrees of depressive symptoms, anxiety, and insomnia, which needed early screening and preventive and promotive interventions for preventing a more serious psychological impact on frontline nurses.

Patient or Public Contribution

No Patient or Public Contribution.
Inhibition mechanism and antiviral activity of an α-ketoamide based SARS-CoV-2 main protease inhibitor
Authors: Chen Xiaoxin , Huang Xiaodong , Ma Qinhai , Kuzmič Petr , Zhou Biao , Xu Jinxin , Liu Bin , Jiang Haiming , Zhang Wenjie , Yang Chunguang , Wu Shiguan , Huang Jianzhou , Li Haijun , Long Chaofeng , Zhao Xin , Xu Hongrui , Sheng Yanan , Guo Yaoting , Niu Chuanying , Xue Lu , Xu Yong , Liu Jinsong , Zhang Tianyu , Spencer James , Deng Wenbin , Chen Shu-Hui , Xiong Xiaoli , Yang Zifeng , Zhong Nanshan
Published: March 2023

SARS-CoV-2 has demonstrated extraordinary ability to evade antibody immunity by antigenic drift. Small molecule drugs may provide effective therapy while being part of a solution to circumvent SARS-CoV-2 immune escape. In this study we report an α-ketoamide based peptidomimetic inhibitor of SARS-CoV-2 main protease (Mpro), RAY1216. Enzyme inhibition kinetic analysis established that RAY1216 is a slow-tight inhibitor with aKi of 8.6 nM; RAY1216 has a drug-target residence time of 104 min compared to 9 min of PF-07321332 (nirmatrelvir), the antiviral component in Paxlovid, suggesting that RAY1216 is approximately 12 times slower to dissociate from the protease-inhibitor complex compared to PF-07321332. Crystal structure of SARS-CoV-2 Mpro:RAY1216 complex demonstrates that RAY1216 is covalently attached to the catalytic Cys145 through the α-ketoamide warhead; more extensive interactions are identified between bound RAY1216 and Mproactive site compared to PF-07321332, consistent with a more stable acyl-enzyme inhibition complex for RAY1216. In cell culture and human ACE2 transgenic mouse models, RAY1216 demonstrates comparable antiviral activities towards different SARS-CoV-2 virus variants compared to PF-07321332. Improvement in pharmacokinetics has been observed for RAY1216 over PF-07321332 in various animal models, which may allow RAY1216 to be used without ritonavir. RAY1216 is currently undergoing phase III clinical trials (https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05620160) to test real-world therapeutic efficacy against COVID-19.
FAN, the homolog of mammalian Apoptosis Antagonizing Transcription Factor AATF/Che-1 protein, is involved in safeguarding genome stability through the ATR induced pathway inArabidopsis
Authors: Liu Fang , Wang Bingshan , Wang Xiangyang , Dong Daofeng , De Veylder Lieven , Qi Shengdong , Horvath Beatrix M. , Palme Klaus , Li Xugang
Published: March 2023

Cellular DNA can be damaged by endogenous or exogenous genotoxins. In plants, reduced genome stability can have a detrimental effect on development. Here, we show the identification of thefanmutant from an ethyl-methanesulfonate (EMS) mutagenizedArabidopsisCol-0 population on the basis of its short root and small leaf phenotype. The causative mutation was identified as a G-to-A transition at the border of the eighth intron and ninth exon of theAt5G61330gene, resulting in a mis-spliced mRNA transcript. FAN is a homolog of the mammalian AATF/Che-1 protein consisting of conserved AATF/Che-1 and TRAUB domains inArabidopsis. In thefanmutant, under normal conditions, we detected DNA damage and cell death response at the root tip, while hypersensitivity to the exogenously applied hydroxyurea (HU) compared to Col-0, suggesting that FAN plays a role in the DNA damage response (DDR). Furthermore, our results showed that FAN is involved in DDR pathway regulated by ATM/RAD53-RELATED (ATR). Taken together, these suggest that FAN is required for meristem maintenance and the DNA damage response.
The Drug Repurposing Encyclopedia (DRE): a web server for systematic drug repurposing across 20 organisms
Authors: Li Xuexin , Pan Lu , Sanchez-Burgos Laura , Hühn Daniela , Fernandez-Capetillo Oscar
Published: March 2023

The identification of new therapeutic uses for compounds via computational or experimental approaches, which is widely known as drug repurposing, has the potential to develop novel therapies with pre-existing medicines, thereby reducing the time and costs associated with drug development. Today, several data-driven methodologies have been developed leading to databases that facilitate drug repurposing initiatives. However, no approach has systematically compared drug transcriptional profiles to those from a wide spectrum of human diseases or molecular pathways. Here, we present the Drug Repurposing Encyclopedia (DRE,https://www.drugrep.org), an interactive web server covering over 198M significant drug-signature associations across 20 organisms to allow users to carry out drug-repositioning analyses. DRE consists of 12 modules covering real-time drug-repurposing for user-provided transcriptional signatures; gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) for all available drug transcriptomics profiles; as well as similarity analyses for provided gene sets across all database signatures. Collectively, DRE provides a one-stop comprehensive solution to help scientists interested in drug-repurposing studies.
Correlating physicochemical and biological properties to define critical quality attributes of a recombinant AAV vaccine candidate
Authors: Kumar Prashant , Wang Michael , Kumru Ozan S. , Hickey John , Sanmiguel Julio , Zabaleta Nerea , Vandenberghe Luk H. , Joshi Sangeeta B. , Volkin David B.
Published: March 2023

Recombinant adeno-associated viruses (rAAVs) are a preferred vector system in clinical gene transfer. A fundamental challenge to formulate and deliver rAAVs as stable and efficacious vaccines is to elucidate interrelationships between the vector’s physicochemical properties and biological potency. To this end, we evaluated an rAAV-based COVID-19 vaccine candidate which encodes the Spike antigen (AC3) and is produced by an industrially-compatible process. First, state-of-the-art analytical techniques were employed to determine key structural attributes of AC3 including primary and higher-order structures, particle size, empty/full capsid ratios, aggregates and multi-step thermal degradation pathway analysis. Next, several quantitative potency measures for AC3 were implemented and data were correlated with the physicochemical analyses on thermal-stressed and control samples. Results demonstrate links between decreasing AC3 physical stability profiles,in vitrotransduction efficiency in a cell-based assay, and importantly,in vivoimmunogenicity in a mouse model. These findings are discussed in the general context of future development of rAAV-based vaccines candidates as well as specifically for the rAAV vaccine application under study.
ELECTRONIC-BASED HEALTH PROMOTION MODELS ON THE USE OF POST PLACENTAL IUD BIRTH CONTROL: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS
Authors: Sulistiyanto Henri , Soetrisno  , Subiyanto A.A , Setyowati Retno
Published: March 2023

Low levels of IUD use, especially post-placental IUDs, are associated with bias and lack of information because contraceptive counseling is limited, for example, through conversations with doctors, written materials, or audiovisual techniques. This study aimed to identify electronic (video) interventions using post-placental IUD contraception through systematic review and meta-analysis. Based on those keywords, some results were obtained: 509 from Google Scholar, 33 from PubMed, 14 from Science Direct, 88 from Sage Journal, 50 from Springer Links, 20 from Scopus, and 178 from ProQuest. In addition, the recording was carried out on the bibliography of review articles, 12 articles were obtained for systematic review, and five meta-analyses were carried out. The heterogeneity test shows a value ρ greater than 0.05, which is ρ =0.88 with I2= 0%, meaning that the variation between studies is homogeneous. The Random Effects Model yielded a pooled odds ratio of 1.07 (95& CI 0.26-4.39). The value ρ = 0.93 so that there was no difference between the treatment and control groups, and the data were homogeneous, an odd ratio of 1.07 was obtained, it was found that video use could increase 1.07 times the knowledge, skills, and decision-making of using post placental IUD compared to those who did not use video.
Neural dynamics in the limbic system during male social behaviors
Authors: Guo Zhichao , Yin Luping , Osakada Takuya , Lischinsky Julieta , Chien Jonathan , Dai Bing , Urtecho Ashley , Tong Xiaoyu , Chen Zhe S. , Lin Dayu
Published: March 2023

Sexual and aggressive behaviors are two evolutionarily conserved social behaviors vital for an animal’s survival and reproductive success. While an increasing number of brain regions in the limbic system have been identified as functionally relevant for these two types of behaviors, an understanding of how social cues are represented across brain regions and how social behaviors are generated via this network activity remains elusive. To gain a holistic view of the neural responses during social behaviors, we utilized multi-fiber photometry to simultaneously record Ca2+signals of estrogen receptor alpha(Esr1)-expressing cells from 13 limbic brain regions in male mice during sexual and aggressive behaviors and compare the response magnitude and temporal patterns across regions. We find that conspecific sensory information, as well as social action initiation signals, are widely distributed in the limbic system and can be decoded from the network activity. Cross-region correlation analysis reveals striking increases in functional connectivity in the network during the action initiation phase of social behaviors whereas advanced copulation is accompanied by a “dissociated” network state. Based on the response patterns, we propose a mating-biased network (MBN) and an aggression-biased network (ABN) for mediating male sexual and aggressive behaviors, respectively.
Modulation of Polar Auxin Transport Identifies the Molecular Determinants of Source-Sink Carbon Relationships and Sink Strength in Poplar
Authors: Balasubramanian Vimal Kumar , Rivas-Ubach Albert , Winkler Tanya , Mitchell Hugh , Moran James , Ahkami Amir H.
Published: March 2023

Source-to-sink carbon (C) allocation driven by the sink strength, i.e., the ability of a sink organ to import C, plays a central role in tissue growth and biomass productivity. However, molecular drivers of sink strength have not been thoroughly characterized in trees. Auxin, as a major plant phytohormone, regulates the mobilization of photoassimilates in source tissues and elevates the translocation of carbohydrates toward sink organs, including roots. In this study, we used an ‘auxin-stimulated carbon sink’ approach to understand the molecular processes involved in the long-distance source-sink C allocation in poplar. Poplar cuttings were foliar sprayed with polar auxin transport modulators, including auxin enhancers (AE) (i.e., IBA and IAA) and auxin inhibitor (AI) (i.e., NPA), followed by a comprehensive analysis of leaf, stem, and root tissues using biomass evaluation, phenotyping, C isotope labeling, metabolomics, and transcriptomics approaches. Auxin modulators altered root dry weight and branching pattern, and AE increased photosynthetically fixed C allocation from leaf to root tissues. The transcriptome analysis identified highly expressed genes in root tissue under AE condition including transcripts encoding polygalacturonase and β-amylase that could increase the sink size and activity. Metabolic analyses showed a shift in overall metabolism including an altered relative abundance levels of galactinol, and an opposite trend in citrate levels in root tissue under AE and AI conditions. In conclusion, we postulate a model suggesting that the source-sink C relationships in poplar could be fueled by mobile sugar alcohols, starch metabolism-derived sugars, and TCA-cycle intermediates as key molecular drivers of sink strength.
A discussion of “information processing costs and firm-specific information flows: evidence from the launch of high-speed railway in China”
Authors: Zhu Haoran
Published: March 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to discuss the strengths and limitations of Zhao et al. (2022). The author also provides suggestions for future research.

Design/methodology/approach

The author initially reviews prior literature studies relevant to this study, i.e. the literature on the relation between geographic proximity and information transfer/acquisition, to better position this paper in existing literature and then briefly discusses the strengths and weaknesses of this paper to provide more insights. Finally, the author presents some possible directions for future research, highlighting the importance of separately examining headquarters and plants in this research setting, and motivating future research on the development of information technology.
Going all the way? LGBTQ people’s receptiveness to gay-themed advertising in a Belgian context
Authors: Demunter Rein , Bauwens Joke
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Through investigating how Belgian LGBTQ people evaluate gay-themed print and television advertising in mainstream media, the purpose of this study is to explore how gay-themed advertising strategies are evaluated in relation to context.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative in-depth interviews were conducted with 17 Flemish self-identified lesbian, gay male and bisexual people.

Findings

Findings of this research demonstrate the importance of the situated context in which LGBTQ people receive and evaluate gay-themed advertisements. By offering a common stock of social knowledge and experience, context creates a framework against which LGBTQ people evaluate gay-themed advertisements. In this specific research that was conducted in a Western-European LGBTQ-friendly society (Belgium), critical evaluations of gay-washing and the dirty laundry effect were found. The positive evaluations of explicit gay-themed and inclusive advertisements also highlighted the importance of advertising an inclusive society.

Research limitations/implications

In considering how gay-themed advertising evaluations relate to context and lived experiences, this research contributes to current knowledge on gay-themed advertising and its reception within LGBTQ groups.

Practical implications

This research offers valuable insights to marketers on how to target sexual minorities in LGBTQ (un)friendly societies.

Social implications

Findings highlight the social importance of minority-oriented advertising. Not only can such advertising promote civic inclusion and social recognition of minority groups, it also has the potential to play a key role in the construction and normalisation of identities.

Originality/value

In an effort to reinvigorate current marketing debates on gay-themed advertising, this study builds on theoretical insights gained via reception research and LGBTQ studies. In doing so, this research yields a more nuanced and contextualised understanding of LGBTQ people’s engagement with various gay-themed advertisements. Considering within a Western European society the relevance of context when researching gay-themed advertisement reception, the results add to primarily US-based research on this topic.
How far is municipal transparency from neighbours? Evidence from Spain and Portugal
Authors: Tejedo-Romero Francisca , Rodrigues Miguel , Araujo Joaquim Filipe Ferraz Esteves
Published: March 2023

Purpose

This manuscript studies municipal transparency in Iberian countries, Spain and Portugal, to analyse similarities and differences in both countries. Despite some political-administrative similarities, the way Spain and Portugal, deal with the issue of transparency may vary.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the levels of municipal transparency, this work aims to analyse how legal and institutional context and political factors framed the way municipalities are managing the “naming and shaming” approach resulting from the creation of the Municipal Transparency Index. A descriptive analysis of the levels of municipal transparency will be carried out and a multivariate analysis to study the characteristics that may be determining differences and similarities between the two countries.

Findings

The study shows similarities in municipal transparency in Iberian countries, the positive effect of the “naming and shaming” approach on transparency and the influence of legal and institutional factors in transparency.

Originality/value

While there is extensive attention to municipal transparency at the country level, less research focuses on comparing municipal transparency in countries that have similar political-administrative characteristics. This study addresses this research gap by investigating two neighbouring countries.
Effect of compound pit textures on the friction and wear of thrust cylindrical roller bearings under starved lubrication
Authors: Wang Yueyong , Zhang Yimin , Long Risheng
Published: March 2023

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the effect of compound pit textures on the tribological properties of thrust cylindrical roller bearings (TCRBs) using several parameters, such as compound type, pit diameter, pit depth and pit area density.

Design/methodology/approach

The surface texture parameters of the shaft washer (WS) raceway include pit diameter (D; 100, 300 and 500 µm), pit depth (H; 10 and 20 µm) and pit area density (S; 10%, 13% and 18%). Pits were produced on the WS of the TCRBs using laser marking equipment. The friction and wear performances of compound pit-textured TCRBs under starved lubrication conditions are studied using a friction and wear test rig. The influence mechanisms of the compound pit texture on the friction and wear properties of TCRBs are discussed through real tests and discussions.

Findings

Compared with nontextured bearings, the average coefficient of friction (ACOFs) and wear loss of TCRBs with single/compound pit textures are reduced when rotating under starved lubrication. D has the greatest effect on the COFs curve. When D = 300 µm, H = 10 µm and S = 10%, the ACOF and wear loss are the lowest, that is, 0.0207 and 3.38 mg, respectively. Under the same lubrication conditions, compared with the nontextured bearing group, the COF and wear loss are reduced by 41.4 and 59.6%, respectively.

Originality/value

This study provides a useful reference for the raceways of textured TCRBs.
Health-based crisis: how do firms weather the storms using the structural hole-bridging strategy?
Authors: Cheah Chee Wei , Koay Kian Yeik
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Drawing on the structural hole-bridging perspective of network theory, this paper aims to examine the adaptation strategies undertaken by housing industry actors following the recent pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative case study was adopted as the research methodology for this research. Data collected through online interviews involving 20 participants was used as primary data, while document analysis (both online and printed documents) was used as secondary data. The interviews were guided by the visual vignette method.

Findings

This study’s findings indicate that a health-based crisis like COVID-19 triggers housing developers to act outside their comfort zones. They undertake arbitrage and collaborative brokerage strategies to cope with business uncertainties. This study revealed the contextual embedding of the owner-occupier market (consumer market) and the investor market (business market). This study also revealed that firms that aggressively located structural holes and built new relationships in B2C and B2B markets before the COVID-19 pandemic were well-equipped to face turbulent times.

Practical implications

The innovative strategies that housing developers adopt are transferable and applicable to other industries and countries. Therefore, awareness of these strategies is essential for industry practitioners, especially those badly hit by health-based crises.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first empirical study that combines relationship management, structural holes, the housing market and their implications for crisis adaptation. This study examined the grossly understudied phenomenon of demand for housing, which is a durable good, during a turbulent time. The findings of this study provide beneficial guidance for firms, buyers and policymakers facing COVID-19 and/or other similar crises.
Modelling the added value of corporate real estate on organizational performance
Authors: Amos Daniel , Boakye-Agyeman Naana Amakie
Published: March 2023

Purpose

This study aims to establish the statistical relationships between corporate real estate added value indicators of cost reduction, increasing productivity, risk reduction and flexibility and organizational financial and non-financial performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopted a mixed methods approach which encompasses initial expert interviews and subsequent questionnaire surveys. Partial least squares structural equation modelling was applied to test the proposed hypotheses of the study.

Findings

The results highlight the significant influence of three added value indicators on organizational performance while highlighting the need for strategic corporate real estate risk management to enhance performance.

Practical implications

The results of the study are useful to identify relevant added value indicators that can improve organizational performance as well as potential added value indicators that deserve attention for performance improvement. Moreover, it presents knowledge on corporate performance indicators which is sparsely explored in corporate real estate management literature.

Originality/value

This study makes a novel contribution to corporate real estate management literature by presenting a parsimonious model to alert corporate real estate managers on essential added value parameters towards organizational performance. The model set the theoretical debates to exploit additional added value dimensions and organizational performance.