bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
De novo mutation rates at the single-mutation resolution in a human HBB gene region associated with adaptation and genetic disease
Authors: Melamed Daniel , Nov Yuval , Malik Assaf , Yakass Michael B. , Bolotin Evgeni , Shemer Revital , Hiadzi Edem K. , Skorecki Karl L. , Livnat Adi
Published: January 2022

Although it is known that the mutation rate varies across the genome, previous estimates were based on averaging across various numbers of positions. Here, we describe a method to measure the origination rates of target mutations at target base positions and apply it to a 6-bp region in the human hemoglobin subunit beta (HBB) gene and to the identical, paralogous hemoglobin subunit delta (HBD) region in sperm cells from both African and European donors. The HBB region of interest (ROI) includes the site of the hemoglobin S (HbS) mutation, which protects against malaria, is common in Africa, and has served as a classic example of adaptation by random mutation and natural selection. We found a significant correspondence between de novo mutation rates and past observations of alleles in carriers, showing that mutation rates vary substantially in a mutation-specific manner that contributes to the site frequency spectrum. We also found that the overall point mutation rate is significantly higher in Africans than in Europeans in the HBB region studied. Finally, the rate of the 20A→T mutation, called the “HbS mutation” when it appears in HBB, is significantly higher than expected from the genome-wide average for this mutation type. Nine instances were observed in the African HBB ROI, where it is of adaptive significance, representing at least three independent originations; no instances were observed elsewhere. Further studies will be needed to examine mutation rates at the single-mutation resolution across these and other loci and organisms and to uncover the molecular mechanisms responsible.
A tetranuclear nickel(II) complex, [Ni4(L)4](ClO4)4·C2H3N·2H2O, with an asymmetric Ni4O4 open-cubane-like core
Authors: Patel R. N. , Patel S. K. , Patel A. K. , Patel N. , Butcher Ray J.
Published: January 2022

A tetranuclear complex with an open-cubane-like core structure was synthesized from 2-methoxy-6-(pyridin-2-yl-hydrazonomethyl)phenol (HL), namely, cyclo-tetrakis(μ-2-methoxy-6-{[2-(pyridin-2-yl)hydrazin-1-ylidene]methyl}phenolato)tetranickel(II) tetrakis(perchlorate) acetonitrile monosolvate dihydrate, [Ni4(C13H12N3O2)4](ClO4)4·C2H3N·2H2O, and characterized using micro-analytical and spectroscopic techniques. The crystal-structure determination reveals the formation of a distorted Ni4O4 cubane-like core architecture encapsulated by four hydrazone Schiff base (HL) molecules. A open-cube tetranuclear architecture is created in which nickel(II) ions of the NiN2O3 unit are connected by μ2-O anions of the phenolate moiety of HL. In this complex, each Ni centre has a slightly distorted square-pyramidal coordination environment. The supramolecular architectures are stabilized via the presence of various intermolecular hydrogen bonds and (aryl–aryl, aryl–chelate and chelate–chelate) stacking interactions.
Syntheses and crystal structures of 2-(p-tolyl)-1H-perimidine hemihydrate and 1-methyl-2-(p-tolyl)-1H-perimidine
Authors: Kalle Paulina , Tatarin Sergei V. , Kiseleva Marina A. , Zakharov Alexander Yu. , Smirnov Daniil E. , Bezzubov Stanislav I.
Published: January 2022

The title compounds, 2-(4-methylphenyl)-1H-perimidine hemihydrate (1, C18H14N2·0.5H2O) and 1-methyl-2-(4-methylphenyl)-1H-perimidine (2, C19H16N2), were prepared and characterized by 1H NMR and single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The organic molecule of the hemihydrate lies on a twofold rotation axis while the water molecule lies on the intersection of three twofold rotation axes (point group symmetry 222). As a consequence, the hydrogen atoms that are part of the N—H group and the water molecule as well as the CH3 group of the p-tolyl ring are disordered over two positions. In compound 1, the perimidine and the 2-aryl rings are slightly twisted while its N-methylated derivative 2 has a more distorted conformation because of the steric repulsion between the N-methyl group and the 2-aryl ring. In the crystal structures, molecules of perimidine 2 are held together only by C—H...π contacts while the parent perimidine 1 does not exhibit this type of interaction. Its crystal packing is established by intermolecular N—H...O hydrogen bonds with the solvent water molecules and additionally stabilized by π–π stacking.
How large entrepreneurial-oriented companies breed innovation: the roles of interdepartmental collaboration and organizational culture
Authors: Ma Xifang , Rui Zhengyun , Zhong Genyuan
Published: January 2022

Purpose

This study aims to provide a better understanding into how large-scale companies overcome their rigidity and bureaucracy, and transform entrepreneurial orientation (EO) into organizational responsiveness (e.g. interdepartmental collaboration [IDC]). It also clarifies the double-edged role of organizational culture in shaping IDC, specifically within the Chinese economy that is deeply influenced by Confucianism.

Design/methodology/approach

Datas were randomly collected from companies that reside in the Yangtze River Delta region. With a sample of 115 large-scale EO Chinese firms, consisting of 402 department managers and 115 executives. The study aggregates the scores to create an overall measurement for EO, collectivism, power distance and IDC in the analysis. Further, confirmatory factor analyses were used to measure the structural model fitness, and multiple regression analysis was used to assess the hypotheses.

Findings

The results show that in competitive environments, IDC, as a strategic response to EO and a risk aversion of inertia and bureaucracy, fully mediates the positive relationship between EO and organizational creativity. Furthermore, the positive association is more pronounced under high cultural collectivism or low power distance in large-scale firms.

Research limitations/implications

This paper contributes to the understanding of EO approach at the organizational level. The results posit that when large companies adopt EO, they are proactive rather than passive and would exhibit IDC as an important strategic responsiveness. Moreover, different organizational cultural orientations (i.e. high collectivism and low power distance) help to build IDC before cultivating innovation.

Practical implications

The results in this study suggest that large companies should focus on developing IDC to overcome knowledge fragmentation, bureaucracy and inertia. Also, large firms should develop Human Resource Management practices, such as creating job rotation and workflow, as well as cultural trust and common beliefs. In contrast, they should be on guard against status differences and workplace hierarchy’s cultural context.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study that considers the roles of IDC and organizational culture and examines how large-scale entrepreneurial-oriented companies breed innovation.
Boundary resource interactions in solution networks
Authors: Wei Ruiqi , Vize Roisin , Geiger Susi
Published: January 2022

Purpose

This study aims to explore the interactions between two different and potentially complementary boundary resources in coordinating solution networks in a digital platform context: boundary spanners (those individuals who span interorganizational boundaries) and boundary interfaces (the devices that help coordinate interfirm relationships, e.g. electronic data interchanges, algorithms or chatbots).

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted a multiple case study of three firms using digital platforms to coordinate solution networks in the information communication technology and lighting facility industries. Data were collected from 30 semi-structured interviews, which are complemented by secondary data.

Findings

As task complexity increases, smarter digital interfaces are adopted. When the intelligence level of interfaces is low or moderate, they are only used as tools by boundary spanners or to support boundary spanners’ functions. When the intelligence level of interfaces is high or very high, boundary spanners design the interfaces and let them perform tasks autonomously. They are also sometimes employed to complement interfaces’ technological limitations and customers’ limited user ability.

Research limitations/implications

The industry contexts of the cases may influence the results. Qualitative case data has limited generalizability.

Practical implications

This study offers a practical tool for solution providers to effectively deploy boundary employees and digital technologies to offer diverse customized solutions simultaneously.

Originality

This study contributes to the solution business literature by putting forward a framework of boundary resource interactions in coordinating solution networks in a digital platform context. It contributes to the boundary spanning literature by revealing the shifting functions of boundary spanners and boundary interfaces.
Critical, contextualized, content-rich: revisiting the call for humanizing pedagogies in literacy methods instruction
Authors: Riley Kathleen , Crawford-Garrett Katherine
Published: January 2022

Purpose

In this study, the authors draw upon 10 years of collaborative teaching and research as two, White, women literacy teacher educators to theorize the role of humanizing pedagogies within literacy teacher education and share explicit examples of how these pedagogies might be operationalized in actual classroom settings.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is based on 10 years of qualitative, teacher inquiry research on authors’ shared practice as literacy teacher educators and has included focus groups with students, the collection of student work and extensive field notes on class sessions.

Findings

Contextualized within decades-old calls for humanizing teacher education practices, this study puts forward a framework for teaching literacy methods that centers critical, locally contextualized, content-rich approaches and provides detailed examples of how this study implemented this framework in two contrastive teacher education settings comprising different institutional barriers, regional student populations and program mandates.

Originality/value

The proposed framework of critical, locally contextualized and content-rich literacy methods offers one possibility for reconciling the divergent debates that perpetually shape literacy teaching and learning. As teachers are prepared to enter classrooms, the authors model concrete approaches and strategies for teaching reading within and against a sociopolitical landscape imbued with White supremacist ideals and racial bias.
The reshoring decision under uncertainty in the post-COVID-19 era
Authors: Chen Homin , Hsu Chia-Wen , Shih Yu-Yuan , Caskey D'Arcy
Published: January 2022

Purpose

Using insights from the supply chain resilience perspective and the international business literature, this study aims to investigate the determinants of firms’ decisions to reshore manufacturing under the high levels of uncertainty brought about by the ongoing US–China trade war and COVID-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed conceptual framework is tested using survey data collected from 702 Taiwanese firms with manufacturing in China. The firms were drawn from a database compiled by Taiwan’s Ministry of Economic Affairs.

Findings

The results show that two supply chain factors (tariffs and supply chain completeness) and two non-location-bound factors (labor cost and material cost) are critical determinants of the decision to reshore under uncertainty.

Originality/value

This research elucidates and empirically validates several factors that influence the reshoring decision in uncertain environments. The findings provide valuable theoretical, practical and strategic insights into how firms should manage their value chains in the post-COVID-19 era.
A systematic literature review on circular economy practices: challenges, opportunities and future trends
Authors: Khan Syed Abdul Rehman , Shah Adeel Syed Ali , Yu Zhang , Tanveer Muhammad
Published: January 2022

Purpose

The circular economy (CE) is an evolving subject transitioning from conceptualization to empirical testing. Over the past decade, researchers have done an exhaustive study to understand the concept of CE and its realized values both financially and environmentally on organizations that have traditional business models based on linear consumption. For understanding the transitional phenomena completely, the paper aims to review the current and emerging research trends in CE to ascertain future direction.

Design/methodology/approach

The research was conducted on 91 articles published in the study area during the past decade (2016–2021) in renowned peer-reviewed journals. The criteria set to review literature are based on the following assortment: CE drivers, CE barriers, definitions by different authors, yearly distribution of the publication, research publisher and journals, google citation and methodology used in the selected research articles.

Findings

The study suggests that researchers from the selected years are keen to understand the transition and its critical factors by bringing forward frameworks and incorporating CE with digital technologies. The digital technology implied are Industrial Technology (IR) 4.0, Big Data, Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain and Data Analytics to increase organizational and environmental performance. CE researchers need to use empirical testing in different sectors to understand and bring forward more improvised business models and practices according to the dynamics of the industry.

Originality/value

The literature review suggests gaps exist to integrate the micro, meso and macro levels to get CE implementation's system-wide benefits. The study has also identified that many CE frameworks available in the literature for implementation must be empirically tested to yield performance results.
Female Personifications and Masculine Forms: Gender, Armour and Allegory in the Habsburg–Valois Conflicts of Sixteenth‐Century Europe
Authors: Bendall Sarah A.
Published: January 2022

This article examines the visual and material culture of sixteenth‐century elite ceremonial armours and the paradoxes inherent in using images of women to decorate them between 1525 and 1550. It argues that foreign invading forces and their allies exploited or inverted traditional gender binaries associated with the classical and humanist iconography of the Italian Renaissance, particularly its female allegorical forms, to visually signify power relationships between combatants during the Italian Wars. Rather than simply embodying masculinity, elaborate ceremonial armours with images of women are revealing of both ideals of masculinity and femininity during times of war. These portrayals were part of wider conversations about gender and power, about the strength and weaknesses of women, and, ultimately, women's inferior status to men, which were utilised in allegorical forms to make claims to authority on these elite forms of male dress.
Rapid identification of Takifugu genus using visual loop‐mediated isothermal amplification
Authors: Xie Ruibin , Li Hui , Yu Wenjie , Wang Nan , Zhang Juan , Gao Jie , Chen Ailiang
Published: January 2022

Some Takifugu species are commonly found in the coastal areas of China, Japan, Thailand, and Korea and cause pufferfish poisoning, which is toxic and even lethal to humans. From 2010 to 2015, there were 430 cases of pufferfish poisoning worldwide, resulting in 52 deaths. Identification of Takifugu species is imperative to reduce financial losses and ensure food safety. Here, visual loop‐mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) was applied to identify Takifugu species. Conserved regions within the mitochondrial DNA among different Takifugu species were selected to design LAMP primers. In 55 min of amplification, sufficient DNA was obtained to observe the results with the naked eye, without the need for complicated instruments. The method was highly specific, with no cross‐detection of 17 other fish species, namely, 7 Tetraodontiformes species and 10 commercially important fish. The method showed a detection limit of 0.1 ng Takifugu DNA and was successfully validated to detect Takifugu in cooked fish and the vomitus of poisoned patients. This rapid and visual LAMP method is a useful tool to prevent false labeling, protect consumer rights, and reduce the risk of pufferfish poisoning.

Practical Application

The loop‐mediated isothermal amplification method established in this study can identify cooked or digested fish products containing 1% or more of Takifugu. Therefore, it can be used for the visual detection of Takifugu products and the medical diagnosis of Takifugu poisoning.
Heritability of tea drinking and its relationship with cigarette smoking in the Chinese male adult twins
Authors: Dongmeng Wang , Yu'e Xi , Wenjing Gao , Ke Zheng , Jun Lv , Canqing Yu , Shengfeng Wang , Tao Huang , Dianjianyi Sun , Chunxiao Liao , Yuanjie Pang , Zengchang Pang , Min Yu , Hua Wang , Xianping Wu , Zhong Dong , Fan Wu , Guohong Jiang , Xiaojie Wang , Yu Liu , Jian Deng , Lin Lu , Weihua Cao , Liming Li
Published: January 2022

The aims of this study are to estimate the contributions of genetic factors to the variation of tea drinking and cigarette smoking, to examine the roles of genetic factors in their correlation and further to investigate underlying causation between them. We included 11 625 male twin pairs from the Chinese National Twin Registry (CNTR). Bivariate genetic modelling was fitted to explore the genetic influences on tea drinking, cigarette smoking and their correlation. Inference about Causation through Examination of FAmiliaL CONfounding (ICE FALCON) was further used to explore the causal relationship between them. We found that genetic factors explained 17% and 23% of the variation in tea drinking and cigarette smoking, respectively. A low phenotypic association between them was reported (rph = 0.21, 95% confidence interval [CI]: [0.19, 0.24]), which was partly attributed to common genetic factors (rA = 0.45, 95% CI [0.19, 1.00]). In the ICE FALCON analysis with current smoking as the exposure, tea drinking was associated with his own (βself = 0.39, 95% CI [0.23, 0.55]) and his co‐twin's smoking status (βco‐twin = 0.25, 95% CI [0.10, 0.41]). Their association attenuated with borderline significance conditioning on his own smoking status (p = 0.045), indicating a suggestive causal effect of smoking status on tea drinking. On the contrary, when we used tea drinking as the predictor, we found familial confounding between them only. In conclusion, both tea drinking and cigarette smoking were influenced by genetic factors, and their correlation was partly explained by common genetic factors. In addition, our finding suggests that familial confounders account for the relationship between tea drinking and cigarette smoking. And current smoking might have a causal effect on weekly tea drinking, but not vice versa.
Sulphated dehydroepiandrosterone serum levels are reduced in women with alcohol use disorder and correlate negatively with craving: A sex‐separated cross‐sectional and longitudinal study
Authors: Weinland Christian , Mühle Christiane , von Zimmermann Claudia , Kornhuber Johannes , Lenz Bernd
Published: January 2022

Previous studies have established a role of sex hormones in alcohol use disorder (AUD).Only few clinical investigations with low numbers of patients with AUD have focused on the sulphated form of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA‐S), despite its function as a neuromodulating sex steroid on receptors in the central nervous system (γ‐aminobutyric acid type A, N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate, sigma‐1 receptors). DHEA‐S serum levels were compared between 200 inpatients with AUD (44% women) admitted for withdrawal treatment and 240 healthy controls (45% women) and analysed longitudinally in patients from early abstinence (baseline) to a median of 5 days later. We also correlated DHEA‐S levels with craving, liver enzyme activities, and prospective alcohol‐related readmissions during a 24‐month follow‐up. DHEA‐S concentrations were lower in female patients than in female healthy controls during baseline (70%) and decreased from baseline to follow‐up in the female and male patients groups (down to: women, 92%; men, 76%). Baseline DHEA‐S concentrations correlated with the total and obsessive subscales of the Obsessive–Compulsive Drinking Scale and with maximum visual analogue scale craving scores in female patients (Rho ≤ −0.240) and gamma‐glutamyl transferase activity in female (Rho = −0.292) and male (Rho = −0.391) patients. DHEA‐S did not significantly predict outcome. We found interactions with smoking behaviour and age. This is the first study based on large cohorts of inpatients with AUD undergoing a qualified detoxification treatment to provide sex‐separated evidence for associations of DHEA‐S serum concentrations with AUD and related phenotypes. The results stimulate further investigations whether DHEA‐S directly influences alcohol craving building a basis to develop sex‐sensitive prevention and treatment strategies.
Risk factors for severe neonatal thrombocytopenia in cases of maternal immune thrombocytopenia
Authors: Point Florian , Terriou Louis , Rakza Thameur , Drumez Elodie , Alluin Gauthier , Garabedian Charles , Houfflin‐Debarge Véronique
Published: January 2022

Aim

Maternal immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) may induce neonatal thrombocytopenia (nTP), which carries a risk of neonatal haemorrhagic complications. Some risk factors for nTP have reached consensus such as maternal splenectomy and previous severe nTP, while others such as maternal platelet count have not.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study in a university hospital, including 145 neonates of mothers with ITP. We assessed the risk of severe nTP and bleeding complications.

Results

Severe nTP in the first 24 h after birth was more common in case of maternal splenectomy (OR = 4.4) and a previous severe nTP (OR = 46.9). Severe nTP at nadir (lowest platelet count during the initial postnatal days) was more frequent in cases of a previous neonate with severe nTP (OR = 42), maternal treatment during pregnancy (OR = 2.4) and a low maternal platelet count during pregnancy or at delivery. These risk factors were not significantly associated with an increased risk of neonatal haemorrhagic complications.

Conclusion

In our population, we confirm the risk of severe nTP in case of maternal splenectomy or previous nTP. By monitoring the platelet count to its nadir, we identified three additional risk factors: maternal treatment during pregnancy and low maternal platelet count during pregnancy or low maternal platelet count at delivery.
The evolution, ecology, and conservation of hummingbirds and their interactions with flowering plants
Authors: Leimberger Kara G. , Dalsgaard Bo , Tobias Joseph A. , Wolf Christopher , Betts Matthew G.
Published: January 2022

The ecological co‐dependency between plants and hummingbirds is a classic example of a mutualistic interaction: hummingbirds rely on floral nectar to fuel their rapid metabolisms, and more than 7000 plant species rely on hummingbirds for pollination. However, threats to hummingbirds are mounting, with 10% of 366 species considered globally threatened and 60% in decline. Despite the important ecological implications of these population declines, no recent review has examined plant–hummingbird interactions in the wider context of their evolution, ecology, and conservation. To provide this overview, we (i) assess the extent to which plants and hummingbirds have coevolved over millions of years, (ii) examine the mechanisms underlying plant–hummingbird interaction frequencies and hummingbird specialization, (iii) explore the factors driving the decline of hummingbird populations, and (iv) map out directions for future research and conservation. We find that, despite close associations between plants and hummingbirds, acquiring evidence for coevolution (versus one‐sided adaptation) is difficult because data on fitness outcomes for both partners are required. Thus, linking plant–hummingbird interactions to plant reproduction is not only a major avenue for future coevolutionary work, but also for studies of interaction networks, which rarely incorporate pollinator effectiveness. Nevertheless, over the past decade, a growing body of literature on plant–hummingbird networks suggests that hummingbirds form relationships with plants primarily based on overlapping phenologies and trait‐matching between bill length and flower length. On the other hand, species‐level specialization appears to depend primarily on local community context, such as hummingbird abundance and nectar availability. Finally, although hummingbirds are commonly viewed as resilient opportunists that thrive in brushy habitats, we find that range size and forest dependency are key predictors of hummingbird extinction risk. A critical direction for future research is to examine how potential stressors – such as habitat loss and fragmentation, climate change, and introduction of non‐native plants – may interact to affect hummingbirds and the plants they pollinate.
Long‐term outcomes after heart transplantation using ex vivo allograft perfusion in standard risk donors: A single‐center experience
Authors: Chen Qiudong , Singer‐Englar Tahli , Kobashigawa Jon A. , Roach Amy , Emerson Dominic , Megna Dominick , Ramzy Danny , Catarino Pedro , Patel Jignesh K. , Kittleson Michelle , Czer Lawrence , Chikwe Joanna , Esmailian Fardad
Published: January 2022

Introduction

The Organ Care System (OCS) is an ex vivo perfusion platform for donor heart preservation. Short/mid‐term post‐transplant outcomes after its use are comparable to standard cold storage (CS). We evaluated long‐term outcomes following its use.

Methods

Between 2011 and 2013, 38 patients from a single center were randomized as a part of the PROCEED II trial to receive allografts preserved with CS (n = 19) or OCS (n = 19). Endpoints included 8‐year survival, survival free from graft‐related deaths, freedom from cardiac allograft vasculopathy (CAV), non‐fatal major adverse cardiac events (NF‐MACE), and rejections.

Results

Eight‐year survival was 57.9% in the OCS group and 73.7% in the CS group (p = .24). Freedom from CAV was 89.5% in the OCS group and 67.8% in the CS group (p = .13). Freedom from NF‐MACE was 89.5% in the OCS group and 67.5% in the CS group (p = .14). Eight‐year survival free from graft‐related death was equivalent between the two groups (84.2% vs. 84.2%, p = .93). No differences in rejection episodes were observed (all p > .5).

Conclusions

In select patients receiving OCS preserved allografts, late post‐transplant survival trended lower than those transplanted with an allograft preserved with CS. This is based on a small single‐center series, and larger numbers are needed to confirm these findings.
Guideline to improve physical function in cerebral palsy: too big to succeed
Authors: Romeiser Logan Lynne , Kolaski Kat
Published: January 2022

This letter to the editor is on the Clinical Practice Guide by Jackman et al. on pages 536–549 of this issue.
Randomized controlled study to evaluate the impact of flexible patient‐controlled visits in people with type 1 diabetes: The DiabetesFlex Trial
Authors: Laurberg Tinne , Schougaard Liv Marit Valen , Hjollund Niels Henrik Ingvar , Lomborg Kirsten Elisabeth , Hansen Troels Krarup , Jensen Annesofie Lunde
Published: January 2022

Aim

The objective of this study was to assess the impact of health care–initiated visits versus patient‐controlled flexible visits on clinical and patient‐reported outcomes in people with type 1 diabetes.

Methods

The DiabetesFlex trial was a randomized controlled, pragmatic non‐inferiority 15‐month follow‐up study comparing standard care (face‐to‐face visits every 4 months) with DiabetesFlex (patient‐controlled flexible visits using patient‐reported, outcome‐based telehealth follow‐up). Of 343 enrolled participants, 160 in each group completed the study. The primary outcome was mean change in HbA1c from baseline to 15‐month follow‐up. Secondary outcomes were blood pressure, lipid levels, frequency of visits, the World Health Organization score—five well‐being‐index (WHO‐5), the Problem Areas In Diabetes (PAID) scale and experience of participation in own care (participation score).

Results

The adjusted mean difference in HbA1c between standard care and DiabetesFlex was similar and below the predefined non‐inferiority margin of 0.4% (−0.03% [95%CI: 0.15, 0.11]/−0.27 mmol/mol [−1.71, 1.16]). No intergroup mean changes in lipid or blood pressure were observed. Conversely, DiabetesFlex participants presented an increased mean WHO‐5 index of 4.5 (1.3, 7.3), participation score of 1.1 (0.5, 2.0), and decreased PAID score of −4.8 (−7.1, −2.6) compared with standard care. During follow‐up, DiabetesFlex participants actively changed 23% of face‐to‐face visits to telephone consultations, cancelled more visits (17% vs. 9%), and stayed away without cancellation less often (2% vs. 8%).

Conclusion

Compared with standard care, flexible patient‐controlled visits combined with patient‐reported outcomes in participants with metabolic controlled type 1 diabetes and good psychological well‐being further improved diabetes‐related well‐being and decreased face‐to‐face visits while maintaining safe diabetes management.
Identifying patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia without need of treatment: End of endless watch and wait?
Authors: Brieghel Christian , Galle Veerle , Agius Rudi , da Cunha‐Bang Caspar , Andersen Michael A. , Vlummens Philip , Mattsson Mattias , Rosenquist Richard , Smedby Karin E. , Herling Carmen D. , Bahlo Jasmin , Hallek Michael , Lundgren Jens D. , Offner Fritz , Niemann Carsten U.
Published: January 2022

Introduction

Early‐stage chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) challenges specialized management and follow‐up.

Methods

We developed and validated a prognostic index to identify newly diagnosed patients without need of treatment (CLL‐WONT) by a training/validation approach using data on 4708 patients. Composite scores derived from weighted hazards by multivariable analysis defined CLL‐WONT risk groups.

Results

Age (>65 years: 1 point), Binet stage (B: 2 points), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) (>205 U/L: 1 point), absolute lymphocyte count (15–30 × 109/L: 1 point; >30 × 109/L; 2 points), β2‐microglobulin (>4 mg/L: 1 point), IGHV mutation status (unmutated: 1 point), and 11q or 17p deletion (1 point) were independently associated with shorter time to first treatment (TTFT). Low‐risk patients demonstrated 5‐year TTFT of 2% by internal validation, but 7–19% by external validation. Including all patients with complete scores, the 5‐year TTFT was 10% for the 756 (39%) CLL‐WONT low‐risk patients, and the 704 (37%) patients who were both CLL‐WONT and CLL‐IPI low risk demonstrated even lower 5‐year TTFT (8%).

Conclusion

We have adopted the CLL‐WONT at an institution covering 1 800 000 individuals to allow patients with both low‐risk CLL‐WONT and CLL‐IPI to be managed by primary healthcare providers, thereby prioritizing specialized hematology services for patients in dire need.
A systematic review: metabolomics‐based identification of altered metabolites and pathways in the skin caused by internal and external factors
Authors: Masutin Viktor , Kersch Christian , Schmitz‐Spanke Simone
Published: January 2022

The skin's ability to function optimally is affected by many diverse factors. Metabolomics has a great potential to improve our understanding of the underlying metabolic changes and the affected pathways. Therefore, the objective of this study was to review the current state of the literature and to perform further metabolic pathway analysis on the obtained data. The aim was to gain an overview of the metabolic changes under altered conditions and to identify common and different patterns as a function of the investigated factors. A cross‐study comparison of the extracted studies from different databases identified 364 metabolites, whose concentrations were considerably altered by the following factor groups: irradiation, xenobiotics, ageing and skin diseases (mainly psoriasis). Using metabolic databases and pathway analysis tools, the individual metabolites were assigned to the corresponding metabolic pathways and the most strongly affected signalling pathways were identified. All factors induced oxidative stress. Thus, antioxidant defence systems, especially coenzyme Q10 (ageing) and the glutathione system (irradiation, ageing, xenobiotics), were impacted. Lipid metabolism was also impacted by all factors studied. The carnitine shuttle as part of β‐oxidation was activated by all factor groups except ageing. Glycolysis, Krebs (TCA) cycle and purine metabolism were mainly affected by irradiation and xenobiotics. The pentose phosphate pathway was activated, and Krebs cycle was downregulated in response to oxidative stress. In summary, it can be ascertained that mainly energy metabolism, lipid metabolism, antioxidative defence and DNA repair systems were impacted by the factors studied.
Impact of native spray‐dried lactic acid bacteria, packing density and wilting time on fermentation characteristics of experimental maize and lucerne silages
Authors: Blajman Jesica E. , Signorini Marcelo L. , Vinderola Gabriel , Lingua Mariana S. , Romero Luis A. , Páez Roxana B. , Casas Cecilia I. , Bergamini Carina V. , Giménez Paula , Gaggiotti Mónica C.
Published: January 2022

This study aimed at investigating the effects of an autochthonous microbial inoculant microencapsulated by spray‐drying on fermentation parameters, microbiological composition, mycotoxin level and aerobic stability of maize and lucerne silages. Experiment 1, a completely randomized design with a 2 × 2 × 4 factorial arrangement of treatments, evaluated inoculation (control or Lactobacillus plantarum Hv75, Pediococcus acidilactici 3903 and Lactobacillus buchneri B463), packing density (148.5 kg dry matter (DM)/m3 or 181.5 kg DM/m3) and storage period (0, 1, 30 or 60 days) in maize silage. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) supplementation produced higher DM and lower acetic acid and deoxynivalenol contents compared to the control (p < 0.05). However, these differences were small in terms of practical applications. Experiment 2 evaluated effects of microbial inoculation (similar as in experiment 1), wilting time (3 or 21 h) and storage period (0, 3, 30 or 60 days) in lucerne silage. LAB supplementation increased DM and lactic acid content, reduced pH and concentrations of acetic acid, ethanol and ammonia nitrogen/total nitrogen compared to the control (p < 0.05). In addition, inoculation increased total LAB population and decreased yeast and mould counts (p < 0.05). Although the strains displayed potential to be used as a bio‐inoculant at different lucerne moisture levels, prolonged wilting positively influenced DM, crude protein and fibre degradation (p < 0.05). Therefore, the addition of this spray‐dried inoculant to lucerne silages with longer wilting could be recommended for the attainment of silage quality.
Regenerative endodontic procedures for the treatment of necrotic mature teeth: A preliminary randomized clinical trial
Authors: Youssef Ahmed , Ali Magdy , ElBolok Amr , Hassan Reham
Published: January 2022

Aim

This preliminary randomized, prospective, controlled trial aimed to compare the clinical and radiographic outcomes of two regenerative endodontic procedures (REPs), revitalization and a platelet‐rich fibrin (PRF)‐based technique, in the treatment of mature permanent teeth with necrotic pulps.

Methodology

The trial has been reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Randomized Trials in Endodontics 2020 guidelines. The study protocol was registered at the clinical trial registry (ClinicalTrials.gov) with identifier number NCT04158232. Twenty patients with mature necrotic anterior teeth with large periapical lesions were randomly allocated into two groups (n = 10): group I, treated with revitalization with the blood clot (BC) technique and group II, treated with a PRF‐based technique. The follow‐up was for 12 months. Periradicular healing was assessed using standardized radiographs taken at baseline, and at 6 and 12 months after treatment. An electric pulp tester was used to assess whether pulp sensibility had been regained during the follow‐up period. Statistical analysis was conducted using Mann–Whitney test and Wilcoxon test for non‐parametric data. For parametric data, repeated measures analysis of variance was used. The significance level was set at p ≤ .05.

Results

There was a significant increase in periradicular healing in both groups at 6 and 12 months, compared to that at baseline, with no significant difference between the studied groups after 12 months (p = .143). There was a significant difference between the tooth sensibility readings at baseline, 6‐month and 12‐month follow‐up timepoints (p < .001).

Conclusions

The findings of this preliminary trial indicate the potential for using REPs, such as revitalization or PRF‐based techniques, as treatment options for mature teeth with necrotic pulps. A higher level of evidence obtained through adequately powered clinical trials and longer follow‐up periods are required to conclusively validate the different outcomes of REPs.
Research progress on negative pressure wound therapy with instillation in the treatment of orthopaedic wounds
Authors: Wu Lijiao , Wen Baoyu , Xu Zhaorong , Lin Kefeng
Published: January 2022

Negative pressure wound therapy with instillation (NPWTi) has the dual function of negative pressure sealing drainage and irrigation, which overcomes the disadvantages of NPWT, such as tube obstruction, inability to apply topical medicine, and poor anti‐infection ability. NPWTi has been researched extensively and widely used in various types of wounds, and certain effects have been achieved. A series of parameters for NPWTi have not been unified at present, including the flushing fluid option, flushing mode, and treatment period. This paper reviews the research progress of these parameters for NPWTi and their application in the treatment of orthopaedic wounds.
Basic study of ceramic lithium strontium borates as thermal neutron scintillators
Authors: Havlíček Jan , Rubešová Kateřina , Jakeš Vít , Kučerková Romana , Beitlerová Alena , Nikl Martin
Published: January 2022

A special group of luminescence materials are scintillators for thermal neutron detection. Due to the properties of neutrons (contrary to e.g. electrons or gamma photons), a different approach has to be utilized—the high content of atoms with the sufficient absorption cross‐section toward neutrons and lower material density are needed. This work pursues a basic study of LiSrBO3 and LiSr4(BO3)3 doped with cerium or europium—materials promising as thermal neutron scintillators. These borates exhibit promising properties such as the high content of lithium and boron, suitable density, and proper environment for luminescent ions. Radioluminescence of these ceramic borates doped with cerium and europium was examined and promising samples were further characterized by photoluminescence spectroscopy and radioluminescence and photoluminescence kinetics measurement. The radioluminescence study of these borates is published for the first time. Cerium‐doped borates, in particular, exhibit a very promising response to an X‐ray excitation.
Realistic visualizations can aid transfer performance: Do distinctive shapes and descriptive labels contribute towards learning?
Authors: Skulmowski Alexander
Published: January 2022

Background

Realistic visualizations have been associated with benefits in retention performance, but also with disadvantages in transfer tasks. Realistic details are considered to be helpful for the initial learning of content, but not for the generalization to other domains and tasks.

Objectives

The contradictory nature of previous evidence needed to be tested in a situation in which both the retention of concrete surfaces as well as the transfer to different shapes is necessary.

Methods

Three experiments were conducted to assess whether transfer tasks in which knowledge of surfaces needed to be transferred to variations can benefit from realism, shape distinctness, and descriptive labels. In Experiment 1, participants learned skull anatomy either in a schematic or a realistic style and completed near and far transfer tests. In Experiment 2, the realism and shape distinctness of a fictional bone model was varied. Subjective cognitive load, retention performance, and transfer scores were measured. Experiment 3 compared how distinct and less distinct shapes of another fictional bone model affect learning in combination with label texts of differing semantic descriptiveness.

Results and Conclusions

In Experiment 1, performance in an anatomy learning task was raised by learning with a realistic visualization across near and far transfer tests. Experiment 2 revealed that extraneous cognitive load is increased for realistic visualizations when the depicted shapes lack distinctness. Experiment 3 suggests that when realistic visualizations feature less distinct shapes, learners struggle with descriptive labels in retention tests and benefit from similarly unspecific labels.
Leadless pacemaker implantation after lead extraction for cardiac implanted electronic device infection
Authors: Bicong Li , Allen John Carson , Arps Kelly , Al‐Khatib Sana M. , Bahnson Tristram D. , Daubert James P. , Frazier‐Mills Camille , Hegland Donald D. , Jackson Kevin P. , Jackson Larry R. , Lewis Robert K. , Pokorney Sean D. , Sun Albert Y. , Thomas Kevin L. , Piccini Jonathan P.
Published: January 2022

Background

Cardiac implanted electronic device (CIED) pocket and systemic infection remain common complications with traditional CIEDs and are associated with high morbidity and mortality. Leadless pacemakers may be an attractive pacing alternative for many patients following complete hardware removal for a CIED infection by eliminating surgical pocket‐related complications as well as lower risk of recurrent complications.

Objective

To describe use and outcomes associated with leadless pacemaker implantation following extraction of a CIED system due to infection.

Methods

Patient characteristics and postprocedural outcomes were described in patients who underwent leadless pacemaker implantation at Duke University Hospital between November 11, 2014 and November 18, 2019, following CIED infection and device extraction. Outcomes of interest included procedural complications, pacemaker syndrome, need for system revision, and recurrent infection.

Results

Among 39 patients, the mean age was 71 ± 17 years, 31% were women, and the most frequent primary pacing indication was complete heart block (64.1%) with 9 (23.1%) patients being pacemaker dependent at the time of Micra implantation. The primary organism implicated in the CIED infection was Staphylococcus aureus (43.6%). Nine of the 39 patients had a leadless pacemaker implanted before or on the same day as their extraction procedure, and the remaining 30 patients had a leadless pacemaker implanted after their extraction procedure. During follow‐up (mean 24.8 ± 14.7 months) after leadless pacemaker implantation, there were a total of 3 major complications: 1 groin hematoma, 1 femoral arteriovenous fistula, and 1 case of pacemaker syndrome. No patients had evidence of recurrent CIED infection after leadless pacemaker implantation.

Conclusions

Despite a prior CIED infection and an elevated risk of recurrent infection, there was no evidence of CIED infection with a mean follow up of over 2 years following leadless pacemaker implantation at or after CIED system removal. Larger studies with longer follow‐up are required to determine if there is a long‐term advantage to implanting a leadless pacemaker versus a traditional pacemaker following temporary pacing when needed during the periextraction period in patients with a prior CIED infection.
East Asian perspectives in metabolic and bariatric surgery
Authors: Oh Tae Jung , Lee Hyuk‐Joon , Cho Young Min
Published: January 2022

The prevalence of diabetes and obesity continues to rise in East Asia. As the risk of diabetes increases at a lower body mass index (BMI) in East Asians than in Europeans, the threshold of BMI values for metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) is lower in East Asians. MBS is considered upon reaching a BMI of 27.5 kg/m2 and is recommended at a BMI of ≥ 32.5 kg/m2, depending on the status of glucose homeostasis. The most commonly performed MBS in East Asia is sleeve gastrectomy, followed by Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass (RYGB). Because the incidence of gastric cancer is higher in East Asia than in other regions, concerns regarding surveillance for gastric cancer might be related to a preference for sleeve gastrectomy over RYGB in this region. Even though there is a paucity of data on direct comparisons of the efficacy of MBS among different ethnic groups, the degree of weight reduction in East Asians is not inferior to other ethnic groups. Moreover, studies suggest that the diabetes remission rate in East Asians seemed to be higher than in other ethnic groups. Future studies involving multiethnic groups are necessary to identify possible ethnic differences in diabetes remission and to determine the appropriate BMI threshold for MBS according to ethnicity.
Pelomyxa doughnuta sp. nov. (Archamoebea, Pelobiontida) with an unusual nucleus‐glycogen association
Authors: Chistyakova Ludmila , Berdieva Mariia , Goodkov Andrew , Frolov Alexander
Published: January 2022

We described Pelomyxa doughnuta sp. nov. and examined it with the use of light, electron, and immunofluorescence microscopy as well as cytochemical methods. The cells of P. doughnuta sp. nov. are usually binuclear, although cells with one, three, or four nuclei are sometimes found in the population. A unique feature of the new species is a dense capsule around the nucleus. It consists of a continuous layer of glycogen 5–20 µm thick. The tubulin cytoskeleton is mainly represented by perinuclear microtubules. P. doughnuta sp. nov. has a filamentous glycocalyx and strongly reduced components of flagellar apparatus. Obligate prokaryotic endocytobionts of two morphotypes are present in the cytoplasm.