bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AtCGL160 recruits chloroplast coupling factor 1
Authors: Reiter Bennet , Rosenhammer Lea , Marino Giada , Geimer Stefan , Leister Dario , Rühle Thilo
Published: October 2021

ATP synthases couple the generation of chemical energy to a transmembrane electro-chemical potential. Like ATP synthases in bacteria and mitochondria, chloroplast ATP synthases consist of a membrane-spanning (CFO) and a soluble coupling factor (CF1). Accessory factors facilitate subunit production and orchestrate the assembly of the functional CF1-CFO complex. It was previously shown that the accessory factor CGL160 promotes the formation of plant CFO and performs a similar function in the assembly of its c-ring to that of the distantly related bacterial Atp1/UncI protein. In this study, we show that the N-terminal portion of CGL160 (AtCGL160N), which is specific to the green lineage, is required for late steps in CF1-CFO assembly in Arabidopsis thaliana. In plants that lacked this stroma-exposed domain, photosynthesis was impaired, and amounts of CF1-CFO were reduced to about 65% of the wild-type level. Loss of AtCGL160N did not perturb c-ring formation, but led to a 10-fold increase in the numbers of CF1 sub-complexes in the stroma relative to the wild type and the CF1 assembly mutant atcgld11-1. Co-immunoprecipitation and protein crosslinking assays revealed an association of AtCGL160 with CF1 subunits. Yeast two-hybrid assays localized the interaction to a stretch of AtCGL160N that binds to the thylakoid-proximal domain of CF1-β that includes the conserved DELSEED motif. We therefore propose that AtCGL160 has acquired an additional function in the recruitment of soluble CF1 to a membrane-integral CFO sub-complex, which is critical for the modulation of CF1-CFO activity and photosynthesis in chloroplasts.
Transcriptional fidelity enhances cancer cell line selection in pediatric cancers
Authors: Luck Cuyler , Yu Katharine , Okimoto Ross A. , Sirota Marina
Published: October 2021

Multi-omic technologies have allowed for comprehensive profiling of patient-derived tumor samples and the cell lines that are intended to model them. Yet, our understanding of how cancer cell lines reflect native pediatric cancers in the age of molecular subclassification remains unclear and represents a clinical unmet need. Here we use Treehouse public data to provide an RNA-seq driven analysis of 799 cancer cell lines, focusing on how well they correlate to 1,655 pediatric tumor samples spanning 12 tumor types. For each tumor type we present a ranked list of the most representative cell lines based on correlation of their transcriptomic profiles to those of the tumor. We found that most (8/12) tumor types best correlated to a cell line of the closest matched disease type. We furthermore showed that inferred molecular subtype differences in medulloblastoma significantly impacted correlation between medulloblastoma tumor samples and cell lines. Our results are available as an interactive web application to help researchers select cancer cell lines that more faithfully recapitulate pediatric cancer.
Dose-dependent thresholds of dexamethasone destabilize CAR T-cell treatment efficacy
Authors: Brummer Alexander B. , Yang Xin , Ma Eric , Gutova Margarita , Brown Christine E. , Rockne Russell C.
Published: October 2021

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy is potentially an effective targeted immunotherapy for glioblastoma, yet there is presently little known about the efficacy of CAR T-cell treatment when combined with the widely used anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressant glucocorticoid, dexamethasone. Here we present a mathematical model-based analysis of three patient-derived glioblastoma cell lines treatedin vitrowith CAR T-cells and dexamethasone. Advancedin vitroexperimental cell killing assay technologies allow for highly resolved temporal dynamics of tumor cells treated with CAR T-cells and dexamethasone, making this a valuable model system for studying the rich dynamics of nonlinear biological processes with translational applications. We model the system as a nonautonomous, two-species predator-prey interaction of tumor cells and CAR T-cells, with explicit time-dependence in the clearance rate of dexamethasone. Using time as a bifurcation parameter, we show that (1) dexamethasone destabilizes coexistence equilibria between CAR T-cells and tumor cells in a dose-dependent manner and (2) as dexamethasone is cleared from the system, a stable coexistence equilibrium returns in the form of a Hopf bifurcation. With the model fit to experimental data, we demonstrate that high concentrations of dexamethasone antagonizes CAR T-cell efficacy by exhausting, or reducing the activity of CAR T-cells, and by promoting tumor cell growth. Finally, we identify a critical threshold in the ratio of CAR T-cell death to CAR T-cell proliferation rates that predicts eventual treatment success or failure that may be used to guide the dose and timing of CAR T-cell therapy in the presence of dexamethasone in patients.

Author summary

Bioengineering and gene-editing technologies have paved the way for advance immunotherapies that can target patient-specific tumor cells. One of these therapies, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy has recently shown promise in treating glioblastoma, an aggressive brain cancer often with poor patient prognosis. Dexamethasone is a commonly prescribed anti-inflammatory medication due to the health complications of tumor associated swelling in the brain. However, the immunosuppressant effects of dexamethasone on the immunotherapeutic CAR T-cells are not well understood. To address this issue, we use mathematical modeling to studyin vitrodynamics of dexamethasone and CAR T-cells in three patient-derived glioblastoma cell lines. We find that in each cell line studied there is a threshold of tolerable dexamethasone concentration. Below this threshold, CAR T-cells are successful at eliminating the cancer cells, while above this threshold, dexamethasone critically inhibits CAR T-cell efficacy. Our modeling suggests that in the presence of high dexamethasone reduced CAR T-cell efficacy, or increased exhaustion, can occur and result in CAR T-cell treatment failure.
Homeodomain proteins hierarchically specify neuronal diversity and synaptic connectivity
Authors: Xu Chundi , Ramos Tyler B. , Rogers Edward M. , Reiser Michael B. , Doe Chris Q.
Published: October 2021

How our brain generates diverse neuron types that assemble into precise neural circuits remains unclear. UsingDrosophilalamina neuron types (L1-L5), we show that the primary homeodomain transcription factor (HDTF) Brain-specific homeobox (Bsh) is initiated in progenitors and maintained in L4/L5 neurons to adulthood. Bsh activates secondary HDTFs Ap (L4) and Pdm3 (L5) and specifies L4/L5 neuronal fates while repressing the HDTF Zfh1 to prevent ectopic L1/L3 fates (control: L1-L5; Bsh-knockdown: L1-L3), thereby generating lamina neuronal diversity for normal visual sensitivity. Subsequently, in L4 neurons, Bsh and Ap function in a feed-forward loop to activate the synapse recognition molecule DIP-β, thereby bridging neuronal fate decision to synaptic connectivity. Expression of a Bsh:Dam, specifically in L4, reveals Bsh binding to theDIP-βlocus and additional candidate L4 functional identity genes. We propose that HDTFs function hierarchically to coordinate neuronal molecular identity, circuit formation, and function. Hierarchical HDTFs may represent a conserved mechanism for linking neuronal diversity to circuit assembly and function.
Tagmentation-based single-cell genomics
Authors: Adey Andrew C.
Published: October 2021

It has been just over 10 years since the initial description of transposase-based methods to prepare high-throughput sequencing libraries, or “tagmentation,” in which a hyperactive transposase is used to simultaneously fragment target DNA and append universal adapter sequences. Tagmentation effectively replaced a series of processing steps in traditional workflows with one single reaction. It is the simplicity, coupled with the high efficiency of tagmentation, that has made it a favored means of sequencing library construction and fueled a diverse range of adaptations to assay a variety of molecular properties. In recent years, this has been centered in the single-cell space with a catalog of tagmentation-based assays that have been developed, covering a substantial swath of the regulatory landscape. To date, there have been a number of excellent reviews on single-cell technologies structured around the molecular properties that can be profiled. This review is instead framed around the central components and properties of tagmentation and how they have enabled the development of innovative molecular tools to probe the regulatory landscape of single cells. Furthermore, the granular specifics on cell throughput or richness of data provided by the extensive list of individual technologies are not discussed. Such metrics are rapidly changing and highly sample specific and are better left to studies that directly compare technologies for assays against one another in a rigorously controlled framework. The hope for this review is that, in laying out the diversity of molecular techniques at each stage of these assay platforms, new ideas may arise for others to pursue that will further advance the field of single-cell genomics.
Purification of Labeled Oligonucleotides by Size-Exclusion Chromatography
Authors: Green Michael R. , Sambrook Joseph
Published: October 2021

When labeled oligonucleotides are to be used in enzymatic reactions such as primer extension, virtually all of the unincorporated label must be removed from the oligonucleotide. For this purpose, chromatographic methods or gel electrophoresis are superior to differential precipitation of the oligonucleotide with ethanol or cetylpyridinium bromide (CPB). This protocol describes a method to separate labeled oligonucleotides from unincorporated label that takes advantage of differences in mobility between oligonucleotides and mononucleotides during size-exclusion chromatography. Although size-exclusion chromatography can, in principle, be used to purify either radiolabeled or nonradiolabeled oligonucleotides, this protocol is geared toward purifying radiolabeled oligonucleotides, whose elution from the column is monitored using a minimonitor and whose separation from unincorporated nucleotides is monitored by liquid scintillation counting.
Making In Situ Whole-Cell Patch-Clamp Recordings from Xenopus laevis Tadpole Neurons
Authors: Li Wen-Chang
Published: October 2021

Xenopus laevis tadpoles have been an excellent, simple vertebrate model for studying the basic organization and physiology of the spinal cord and motor centers in the brainstem. In the past, intracellular recordings from the spinal and brainstem neurons were primarily made using sharp electrodes, although whole-cell patch-clamp technology has been around since the early 1980s. In this protocol, I describe the dissections and procedures needed for in situ whole-cell patch-clamp recording, which has become routine in tadpole neurophysiology since the early 2000s. The critical step in the dissections is to delicately remove some ependymal cells lining the tadpole neurocoele in order to expose clean neuronal somata without severing axon tracts. Whole-cell recordings can then be made from the somata in either current- or voltage-clamp mode.
Biotin
Authors: Green Michael R. , Sambrook Joseph
Published: October 2021

Biotin is a water-soluble vitamin that can be attached to a variety of proteins and nucleic acids, often without altering their properties. Its use in molecular biology is introduced here.
Growing Hybridomas
Authors: Greenfield Edward A.
Published: October 2021

This introduction discusses the techniques used to grow and maintain myeloma and hybridoma cell lines, the production and collection of monoclonal antibodies, and methods for drug selection used in hybridoma work.
ConFlat cell foroperandoelectrochemical X-ray studies of lithium-ion battery materials in commercially relevant conditions
Authors: Sendetskyi Oles , Salomons Mark , Mendez Patricio , Fleischauer Michael
Published: October 2021

In situandoperandotechniques play an important role in modern battery materials research and development. As materials characterization and application requirements advance, so too must thein situ/operandotest methods and hardware. The effects of temperature, internal mechanical pressure and parasitic reactions due to, for example, cell sealing are critical for commercial scale-up but often overlooked inin situ/operandocell designs. An improved electrochemicaloperandocell for X-ray diffraction and spectroscopy using ConFlat-style flanges in combination with a beryllium window is presented. The cell is reusable and simple to fabricate and assemble, providing superior sealing, relevant and adjustable cell stack pressure, and reproducible charge/discharge cycling performance for short- and long-term experiments. Cell construction, electrochemical performance, and representativeoperandoX-ray powder diffraction measurements with carbon and aluminium electrodes at temperatures between 303 and 393 K are provided.Operandoelectrochemical cell testing at high temperatures allows access to temperature-sensitive phase transitions and opens the way for analysis and development of new lithium-based cathode, anode and electrolyte materials for lithium-ion batteries.
Job insecurity and employees' safety voice behavior – a managerial dilemma caused by COVID-19
Authors: Salman Anum , Ahmed Ishfaq , Jahangir Sehrish
Published: October 2021

Purpose

The world is witnessing enormous changes due to the outbreak of the COVID-19 epidemic. One of the unkind changes is the increased downsizing and layoffs, which has led to a situation of job insecurity. Moreover, due to the unavailability of a cure for the pandemic, the businesses have started their operations with added safety measures that demand a high level of employee safety behavior. But how job insecurity and safety voice may stay in one sheath is an area that requires attention. Hence, this study investigates the impact of job insecurity on employees' safety voice behavior in a COVID-19 outbreak, through serial mediation mechanisms of organizational support and trust.

Design/methodology/approach

Data has been collected through a structured questionnaire from the sample (N = 213) of employees of service organizations.

Findings

Findings of the study reveal that job insecurity is not directly linked with safety voice behavior, and therefore full mediation through perceived organizational support and trust is supported is proved.

Originality/value

This study covers the investigation of job insecurity, during pandemic COVID-19, and its effects on safety voice. It also explains the mechanism between the variables of interest through perceived organizational support and trust in the organization. The study is a timely contribution to the existing literature and offers both theoretical and managerial implications.
Disaster racism: using Black sociology, critical race theory and history to understand racial disparity to disaster in the United States
Authors: Breen Kyle
Published: October 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a call to action to use a new theoretical framework for disaster researchers that focuses on using a critical approach to understanding differential disaster impacts due to systemic racism.

Design/methodology/approach

Using critical race theory (CRT) and Black Sociology, theoretical and disciplinary frameworks that center Black people and NBPOC as well as a focus in dismantling systemic racism and other oppressive systems, this article calls for a new approach – “disaster racism” – that builds on past discussions for a more nuanced theoretical approach to disaster studies.

Findings

Alongside CRT and Black Sociology, this study identifies two examples of the oppressive systems that create disparate impacts to disaster including slavery and the legacy of slavery and mass incarceration.

Originality/value

“Disaster racism” – a critically focused approach – should be used in the future rather than social vulnerability to further dismantle oppressive systems and institutions, which not only provides strong theoretical backing to research but also creates an actively anti-racist research agenda in the discipline of sociology of disaster.
A dark side of e-HRM: mediating role of HR service delivery and HR socialization on HR effectiveness
Authors: Talukdar Asim , Ganguly Anirban
Published: October 2021

Purpose

The primary aim of this paper is to study a dark side of e-HRM concerning its parallel effect on human resource (HR) socialization and HR service delivery and the consequent impact of perceived HR effectiveness.

Design/methodology/approach

The current study started with an in-depth review of the extant literature in the field of e-HRM to derive a set of constructs. Based on the theoretical foundation of the identified constructs, the current study went on to derive a set of hypotheses, which was subsequently validated using the uses the quantitative technique of PLS-SEM. A primary survey, in the form of a structured questionnaire, was used as the source for data collection on a sample size of 276 from the Indian industrial domain. Careful attention was paid to eliminate the common method bias in the study.

Findings

The findings of this study show a simultaneous significant full mediation effect of both HR service delivery and HR socialization is the relationship between e-HRM and HR effectiveness. However, e-HRM has a strong and significant negative effect on HR socialization. Though HR socialization is positively related to HR effectiveness, the significantly reduced level of HR socialization as a consequence of adaption of e-HRM had negatively affected the perceived HR effectiveness.

Originality/value

Although the dark side of e-HRM has been recognized by academicians and practitioners alike, its implications have seldom been studied in the academic literature. The current study intends to shed some light on this important, but sparsely discussed topic. Further, this study makes significant and meaningful contributions in the literature of e-HRM by empirically studying together the positive and negative consequences of e-HRM and its effects on HR effectiveness. Several e-HRM scholars have discussed the implications of e-HRM adoption and highlighted the negative impacts of e-HRM, and traversing the same path, the current study advances the literature by empirically investigating the effect of e-HRM on the dehumanization of HR processes and practices.
The uncontrollability of relational indifference in blended workgroups
Authors: Kristensen Anette Kaagaard , Kristensen Martin Lund
Published: October 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to examine how temporaries’ experience and perception of encounters with permanent members’ relational indifference affect the social relations in blended workgroups.

Design/methodology/approach

Constructivist grounded theory study based on 15 semi-structured interviews with first- and third-year nursing students in clinical internships at somatic hospital wards was used.

Findings

The authors identified two themes around organizational alienation. Temporaries expected and hoped to experience resonance in their interactions with permanent members, which drove them to make an extra effort when confronted with permanents’ relational indifference. Temporaries felt insignificant, meaningless and unworthy, causing them to adopt a relationless mode of relating, feeling alienated and adapting their expectations and hopes.

Practical implications

Relational indifference is, unlike relational repulsion, problematic to target directly through intervention policies as organizations would inflict a more profound alienation on temporaries.

Originality/value

Unlike previous research on blended workgroups, which has predominantly focused on relational repulsion, this paper contributes to understanding how relational indifference affects temporaries’ mode of relating to permanent.
Internal communication satisfaction and employee engagement as determinants of the employer brand
Authors: Špoljarić Anja , Tkalac Verčič Ana
Published: October 2021

Purpose

This study aims to contribute to the understanding of internal communication and its connections to engagement and employer brands. The authors wanted to test the relationship between the three variables and explore if employees' perception of employer brands is affected by internal communication satisfaction and engagement. Creating a desirable employer brand can have significant benefits for organizations, such as higher employee satisfaction, employee engagement and retention. It is crucial to have a clear grasp of how the determinants of these relationships affect each other.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 1,805 employees participated in a large communication survey that measured internal communication satisfaction, employee engagement and perception of employer brand (operationalized as employer attractiveness). To test the relationship between variables, the authors used multiple regression analysis.

Findings

The results show internal communication satisfaction and employee engagement as significant predictors of employer brand. All of the internal communication satisfaction dimensions and two out of three employee engagement dimensions have been identified as determinants of at least two employer attractiveness dimensions.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations include using a cross-sectional dataset, which reduces the possibility of determining causality, using self-reports and a common source bias.

Originality/value

The authors added to the body of knowledge by analyzing the effects of workplace attitudes on attitudes toward the organization. The authors found that both internal communication satisfaction and employee engagement significantly shape the perception of employer brands.
Family succession, professionalization and internationalization: a study of Brazilian family businesses
Authors: Costa Augusto Dalmoro , Zen Aurora Carneiro , Spindler Everson dos Santos
Published: October 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between family succession, professionalization and internationalization in family businesses within the Brazilian context.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents a multiple-case study method with three Brazilian family businesses that have at least two generations of the owning family involved in the business and an international presence of at least three years. In-depth interviews and secondary data were undertaken with family and non-family members of each case.

Findings

The authors' results show that a family business can boost its internationalization by introducing both succession planning and professionalization on international activities. As family members tend to be more risk-averse and focused on keeping the family business within the family, professionalization is a way of improving the firm's ability to expand internationally. This process tends to lead to lower performance by the firm for the first few months or the first year after the investment, but afterward, international performance tends to grow exponentially.

Originality/value

Only a few studies have been concerned on the relationship of these three dimensions. Thus, the research takes into account that professionalization and succession lead family businesses to improve their internationalization strategies.
Could banning virtual assets be a breach of the doctrine of legitimate expectation?
Authors: Haq Md. Zahurul , Farzana Kazi Fahmida , Md Moniruzzaman
Published: October 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the validity of a state’s prohibition on virtual assets in the context of its global commitment to battle against money laundering.

Design/methodology/approach

This was empirical legal research exploring how a general lack of expertise to apply a risk-based approach in anti-money laundering strategies might have implications for invoking the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) exclusion provisions in virtual asset regulation.

Findings

Invoking the exclusion provisions for banning virtual assets without meeting the prerequisites may put the financial system at risk and make a jurisdiction’s legal obligations appear breached.

Research limitations/implications

Anti-money laundering (AML) policymakers will take precautions and avoid misuse of the liberties they enjoy under FATF exclusion clauses/provisions.

Practical implications

The results of this study will help ensure more informed decision-making on the legal status and regulation of virtual assets.

Originality/value

The study helps ascertain the limits of privileges accorded to states under FATF exclusion provisions in applying global standards against money laundering.
Determinants ofde jureadoption of international financial reporting standards: a review
Authors: Bengtsson Maria Ming
Published: October 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to systematically review extant studies on what makes a country fully, partially or not adopt international financial reporting standards (IFRS) and categorize these factors into meaningful categories. In so doing, this study facilitates policy-making for accounting and economic standard setters and also points out conflicting viewpoints in the current literature, thus, opportunities for future research.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is a literature review on academic studies that examine factors influencing national adoption of IFRS. The reviewed articles are limited to published, peer-reviewed papers only.

Findings

Overall, the review suggests that although a wide range of determinants on national adoption of IFRS has been identified, prior literature consists of conflicting viewpoints on what influence national accounting policies toward IFRS, thus, highlighting areas in which there are needs for future research.

Research limitations/implications

First, this study focuses only on thede jureadoption of IFRS. Second, the study focuses mainly on research findings, not theory use in the extant literature.

Originality/value

To the best of the author’s knowledge, this is the first study, which provides a comprehensive review of studies onde jureIFRS adoption.
Meta-cognitive impairment in processing ingredients: the effects of jargon, list length and aids on young consumers’ evaluations of cosmetic products
Authors: Özdinç Yalım
Published: October 2021

Purpose

This study aims to examine the nonidentical impacts of identical panel information that discloses cosmetic ingredients by their English (i.e. low jargon; e.g. vitamin E) versus scientific names (i.e. high jargon; tocopherol instead) presented in short versus crowded panel on young consumers’ confidence in processing ingredients information and product judgements. In the same context, this study also explores the effects of declarative aids provided within the ingredients panel.

Design/methodology/approach

This study conducted four experiments by using a 2 (jargon: high, low) × 2 (ingredients list: short, long) between-subjects analysis of variance design.

Findings

Young consumers’ processing-confidence and product evaluations increase (decrease) when the panel is brief (crowded) and presents cosmetic ingredients in low (high) jargon (Experiments 1, 2). However, when it discloses a factual aid [i.e. ingredient functions; e.g. tocopherol (antioxidant)], confidence in processing even the high-jargon information, as well as product judgements, increases irrespective of the panel’s length (Experiment 3). Moreover, a fictitious aid (e.g. dryness-fighting “atomic robots”) stimulates the same effect and bolsters processing confidence and product evaluations irrespective of both jargon and panel’s length (Experiment 4).

Originality/value

Despite their heavy use of over-the-counter beauty/cosmetic products, little do we know how young consumers consult and use on-pack ingredients information provided in one format versus the other. To the best of the author’s knowledge, this study is the first experimental work investigating the cosmetics-consuming youth’s reactions to panel format and aids to processing.
Clinical significance of the water retention and barrier function‐improving capabilities of ceramide‐containing formulations: A qualitative review
Authors: Kono Takeshi , Miyachi Yoshiki , Kawashima Makoto
Published: October 2021

A decrease in the ceramide content of the stratum corneum is known to cause dry and barrier‐disrupted skin. In this literature review, the clinical usefulness of preparations containing natural or synthetic ceramides for water retention and barrier functions was evaluated. The PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Igaku Chuo Zasshi databases were searched using keywords such as “ceramide”, “skincare products”, “barrier + hydration + moisture + skin”, and “randomized trial”. All database searches were conducted in February 2019. Forty‐one reports were selected based on the following criterion: comparative control studies that evaluated the effects of ceramide‐containing formulations based on statistical evidence. Among the 41 reports, 12 were selected using the patient, intervention, comparison, and outcome approach. These 12 reports showed that external ceramide‐containing preparations can improve dry skin and barrier function in patients with atopic dermatitis. However, a double‐blinded comparative study with a large sample size is warranted for appropriate clinical use.
Native son Japarov: The embodiment of injustice?
Authors: Ismailbekova Aksana
Published: October 2021

Sadyr Japarov, the current President of Kyrgyzstan, came to power in what became known as the 2020 revolution, the third revolution in the country's history after the 2005 First Kyrgyz (or Tulip) Revolution and the 2010 Second Kyrgyz Revolution. He criticized earlier political leaders for their corruption, nepotism and links to criminality, instead promising justice and care for his people. However, many now accuse him of undermining democracy by bribery, reinforcing authoritarian rule and setting up connections to the criminal world. The author draws on research on politics and patronage in Kyrgyzstan over the last ten years. Although Japarov is a former convict engaged in nepotistic activities in contemporary Kyrgyzstani politics, many support him as their ‘native son’ – until, as with previous presidents, they no longer do so.
Pregnancy rates and outcomes in women with cystic fibrosis in the UK: comparisons with the general population before and after the introduction of disease‐modifying treatment, 2003–17
Authors: Esan OB , Schlüter DK , Phillips R , Cosgriff R , Paranjothy S , Williams D , Norman R , Carr SB , Duckers J , Taylor‐Robinson D
Published: October 2021

Objective

To compare pregnancy rates and outcomes for women with cystic fibrosis in the UK with those of the general population and assess the effect of the introduction of disease‐modifying treatment.

Design

A population‐based longitudinal study, 2003–17.

Setting

United Kingdom.

Population

Women aged 15–44 years in the UK cystic fibrosis (CF) Registry compared with women in England and Wales.

Methods

We calculated pregnancy and live‐birth rates for the CF population and the general population of England and Wales. For women with CF we compared pregnancy rates before and after ivacaftor was introduced in 2013. We further used CF registry data to assess pregnancy outcomes for mothers with CF, and to assess the relationship between maternal pre‐pregnancy lung function and nutritional status and child gestational age.

Main outcome measures

Pregnancy and live‐birth rates and child gestational age.

Results

Of 3831 women with CF, 661 reported 818 pregnancies. Compared with the general population, the pregnancy rate was 3.3 times lower in the CF population (23.5 versus 77.7 per 1000 woman‐years); the live‐birth rate was 3.5 times lower (17.4 versus 61.4 per 1000 woman‐years) with 70% of pregnancies in CF women resulting in live births; termination of pregnancy rates were also lower (9% versus 22%). Pregnancy rates increased post‐ivacaftor for eligible women with CF, from 29.7 to 45.7 per 1000 woman‐years. There was no association between pre‐pregnancy lung function/nutrition status and gestational age.

Conclusions

Pregnancy rates in women with CF are about one‐third of the rates in the general population with favourable outcomes, and increased for eligible women post‐ivacaftor.

Tweetable abstract

Pregnancy rates in women with CF are about a third of the rate in England and Wales with 70% live births. Ivacaftor increases the rate.
Distinguishing neighborhood and individual social risk factors in health care
Authors: Beckett Megan K. , Martino Steven C. , Agniel Denis , Mathews Megan , Hudson Scholle Sarah , James Cara , Wilson‐Frederick Shondelle , Orr Nate , Darabidian Biayna , Elliott Marc N.
Published: October 2021

Objective

To investigate (a) the magnitude of the independent associations of neighborhood‐level and person‐level social risk factors (SRFs) with quality, (b) whether neighborhood‐level SRF associations may be proxies for person‐level SRF associations, and (c) how the association of person‐level SRFs and quality varies by neighborhood‐level SRFs.

Data sources

2015–2016 Medicare Advantage HEDIS data, Medicare beneficiary administrative data, and 2016 American Community Survey (ACS).

Study design

Mixed effects linear regression models (1) estimated overall inequities by neighborhood‐level and person‐level SRFs, (2) compared neighborhood‐level associations to person‐level associations, and (3) tested the interactions of person‐level SRFs with corresponding neighborhood‐level SRFs.

Data collection/extraction methods

Beneficiary‐level SES and disability administrative data and five‐year ACS neighborhood‐level SRF information were each linked to HEDIS data.

Principal findings

For all or nearly all HEDIS measures, quality was worse in neighborhoods lower in SES and in neighborhoods with higher proportions of residents with a disability. Quality by neighborhood racial and ethnic composition was mixed. Accounting for corresponding person‐level SRFs reduced neighborhood SRF associations by 25% for disability, 43% for SES, and 74%–102% for racial and ethnic groups. Person‐level SRF coefficients were not consistently reduced in models that added neighborhood‐level SRFs. In 19 of 35 instances, there were significant (p < 0.05) interactions between neighborhood‐level and corresponding person‐level SRFs. Significant interactions were always positive for disability, SES, Black, and Hispanic, indicating more negative neighborhood effects for people with SRFs that did not match their neighborhood and more positive neighborhood effects for people with SRFs that matched their neighborhood.

Conclusions

Relying solely on neighborhood‐level SRF models that omit similar person‐level SRFs overattributes inequities to neighborhood characteristics. Neighborhood‐level characteristics account for much less variation in these measures' scores than similar person‐level SRFs. Inequity‐reduction programs may be most effective when targeting neighborhoods with a high proportion of people with a given SRF.
Human height estimation from highly distorted surveillance image
Authors: Tosti Francesco , Nardinocchi Carla , Wahbeh Wissam , Ciampini Claudio , Marsella Maria , Lopes Pierpaolo , Giuliani Samuele
Published: October 2021

Video surveillance camera (VSC) is an important source of information during investigations especially if used as a tool for the extraction of verified and reliable forensic measurements. In this study, some aspects of human height extraction from VSC video frames are analyzed with the aim of identifying and mitigating error sources that can strongly affect the measurement. More specifically, those introduced by lens distortion are present in wide‐field‐of‐view lens such as VSCs. A weak model, which is not able to properly describe and correct the lens distortion, could introduce systematic errors. This study focuses on the aspect of camera calibration to verify human height extraction by Amped FIVE software, which is adopted by the Forensic science laboratories of Carabinieri Force (RaCIS), Italy. A stable and reliable approach of camera calibration is needed since investigators have to deal with different cameras while inspecting the crime scene. The performance of the software in correcting distorted images is compared with a technique of single view self‐calibration. Both approaches were applied to several frames acquired by a fish‐eye camera and then measuring the height of five different people. Moreover, two actual cases, both characterized by common low‐resolution and distorted images, were also analyzed. The height of four known persons was measured and used as reference value for validation. Results show no significant difference between the two calibration approaches working with fish‐eye camera in test field, while evidence of differences was found in the measurement on the actual cases.
Clinicopathological and prognostic implications of ALK rearrangement in patients with completely surgically resected lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Zhang Huan , Shan Guangyao , Cai Benjie , Bi Guoshu , Chen Zhencong , Liang Jiaqi , Besskaya Valeria , Zheng Yuansheng , Guo Weigang , Wang Lin , Xu Songtao , Zhan Cheng
Published: October 2021

Background

The prognostic significance of ALK rearrangement is still contradictory. Here, we aimed to investigate the clinical characteristics and outcomes of lung adenocarcinoma patients with ALK rearrangement, and analyze whether these patients benefited from targeted therapy.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of 80 ALK‐rearranged lung adenocarcinoma patients who had undergone radical surgery and another 3031 ALK mutation‐negative patients were retrospectively reviewed for inclusion in this case‐controlled analyses. Overall survival (OS) was evaluated using the Kaplan‐–Meier method. Univariate analysis (UVA) and multivariate analysis (MVA) by the Cox proportional hazards regression identified risk factors that predicted OS.

Results

Compared to ALK‐negative patients, the ALK rearranged patients were younger, with more non‐smokers, more females, a larger primary tumor was demonstrated, and were a higher pathological stage. In particular, the risk of lymph node metastasis was higher. For patients with surgically‐resected tumors, the prognosis was better for ALK rearranged patients (HR = 0.503; 95% CI: 0.259–0.974, p = 0.041). In addition, for stage II–III patients, targeted therapy was an independent prognostic factor of better OS (HR = 0.159; 95% CI: 0.032–0.801, p = 0.026).

Conclusions

ALK rearranged lung adenocarcinoma patients who have undergone radical surgery have distinct clinical features. Patients with ALK rearrangement may have a favorable prognosis, and stage II–III patients may benefit from targeted treatment.
Effectiveness of anlotinib in patients with small‐cell lung cancer and pleural effusion: Subgroup analysis from a randomized, multicenter, phase II study
Authors: Liu Ying , Cheng Ying , Wang Qiming , Li Kai , Shi Jianhua , Wu Lin , Han Baohui , Chen Gongyan , He Jianxing , Wang Jie , Qin Haifeng , Li Xiaoling
Published: October 2021

Background

The presence of pleural effusion is an independent predictor for poor survival in patients with small‐cell lung cancer (SCLC). The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy and safety of anlotinib in patients with SCLC and pleural effusion.

Methods

This was a randomized, double‐blind, multicenter, phase II trial. Patients histologically diagnosed with SCLC and pleural effusion and had received at least two lines of chemotherapy were enrolled into the study. The patients received anlotinib 12 mg/day or a placebo.

Results

The overall response rate (ORR) was 3.7% for anlotinib (n = 27) and 0% in the placebo group (n = 15) (p = 1.000). The disease control rate (DCR) of the anlotinib group (63.0%) was higher than that of the placebo group (0%, p < 0.0001). The median progression‐free survival (PFS) increased in the anlotinib group (2.8 months) compared to the placebo group (0.7 months, HR = 0.10, 95% CI: 0.03–0.28, p < 0.001). The median overall survival of the anlotinib group (6.5 months) was higher than that of the placebo group (2.8 months, HR = 0.52, 95% CI: 0.22–1.23, p = 0.1285). The incidence of any grade adverse events was 100% in both groups. The percentage of grade 3–4 adverse events in the anlotinib group was 44.4% (12/27) compared to 40.0% (6/15) in the placebo group. Hypertension (37.0%), fatigue (29.6%), and loss of appetite (29.6%) typically appeared in the anlotinib group.

Conclusions

In this post hoc analysis, anlotinib was associated with improved PFS in patients with SCLC and baseline pleural effusion. However, additional studies with a large sample size are necessary to substantiate the current findings.
What do dental students value about their rural placements—Is clinical experience enough?
Authors: Koedyk Caroline , Satur Julie , Vaughan Brett
Published: October 2021

Objectives

Melbourne Dental School’s (MDS) rural dental clinical placement program operates in two Victorian rural areas and offers final year dental students an integrated program of practical clinical experience and rural lifestyle exposure. The objective of this study was to understand the student’s experiences to determine whether they increased the likelihood of them seeking rural employment after graduation.

Design

The University of Melbourne final year dental students attended 5‐week mandatory rural clinical placements in 2018 and 2019. At the completion of their placement, students were invited to complete an anonymous questionnaire about their experiences, which had both quantitative and qualitative questions. This study examined the qualitative data using thematic analysis to identify common themes.

Setting

Rural clinical dental placements at Goulburn Valley Health and Latrobe Community Health Service.

Participants

Final year dentistry and oral health students.

Interventions

Clinical placement evaluation questionnaire.

Main outcome measures

To examine dental students interest in rural practicepost rural clinical placement.

Results

Of the 129 students who completed the survey, 116 completed the open‐ended questions and four themes were identified. Rich clinical experience; social capital; rural life and infrastructure. High levels of satisfaction were reported across all themes.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated the rural clinical program to be a positive and enjoyable placement which increased dental students’ clinical practice experience and their interest in considering rural practice upon graduation. Exposure to rural lifestyle and supportive clinical and social relationships were shown to be important influences. The current survey can benefit from refinement and further research following up MDS graduate workplace locations is recommended.
Consequences of mechanical pupil dilation, a study based on the Swedish national cataract register
Authors: Kreku Ruben , Behndig Anders
Published: October 2021

Purpose

To describe the outcomes and demographics of patients undergoing mechanical pupil dilation (MPD) during cataract surgery.

Setting

All cataract procedures performed in Umeå University Hospital and Sunderbyn, Gällivare and Piteå hospitals reported to the Swedish National Cataract Register (NCR) during 2013–2019.

Design

Retrospective cohort study based on the Swedish NCR and electronic patient records.

Methods

The number of control visits, pre‐ and postoperative visual acuities, surgical complications/intraoperative difficulties, ocular comorbidities and postoperative treatment regimens were retrieved for all cataract procedures with MPD. For each procedure, the consecutive procedure in the NCR from the same clinic without MPD was chosen to form a control group. A multinominal regression analysis with MPD as the dependent variable was performed to identify factors and outcomes independently associated with MPD.

Results

A total of 25 349 patients aged 18–97 years underwent cataract surgery in these hospitals during the study period. Of these, 653 (2.6%) had MPD. Factors such as pseudoexfoliations and capsule staining were over‐represented among MPD eyes. As a group, eyes with MPD had more postoperative visits and more postoperative anti‐inflammatory drops, and more frequently needed augmentation of the anti‐inflammatory treatment at the first postoperative visit.

Conclusions

MPD is independently associated with a more complicated intra‐ and postoperative course with more follow‐up visits and requires more anti‐inflammatory treatment postoperatively. This information could be added to the postoperative counselling, and more postoperative anti‐inflammatory treatment could be considered in cases with MPD.
Temporal turnover of the soil microbiome composition is guild‐specific
Authors: Martinović Tijana , Odriozola Iñaki , Mašínová Tereza , Doreen Bahnmann Barbara , Kohout Petr , Sedlák Petr , Merunková Kristina , Větrovský Tomáš , Tomšovský Michal , Ovaskainen Otso , Baldrian Petr
Published: October 2021

Although spatial and temporal variation are both important components structuring microbial communities, the exact quantification of temporal turnover rates of fungi and bacteria has not been performed to date. In this study, we utilised repeated resampling of bacterial and fungal communities at specific locations across multiple years to describe their patterns and rates of temporal turnover. Our results show that microbial communities undergo temporal change at a rate of 0.010–0.025 per year (in units of Sorensen similarity), and the change in soil is slightly faster in fungi than in bacteria, with bacterial communities changing more rapidly in litter than soil. Importantly, temporal development differs across fungal guilds and bacterial phyla with different ecologies. While some microbial guilds show consistent responses across regional locations, others show site‐specific development with weak general patterns. These results indicate that guild‐level resolution is important for understanding microbial community assembly, dynamics and responses to environmental factors.
Squamous gastric ulceration complicated by gastric stenosis in a foal
Authors: Witt P. , de Kroon L. , Ankringa N. , Delany M. , van Bruggen L. W. L. , van den Boom R. , Sloet van Oldruitenborgh‐Oosterbaan M. M. , Siegers E. W.
Published: October 2021

A 2‐month‐old Warmblood colt presented with recurrent colic and regurgitation. Gastroscopy, performed on several occasions, and barium‐contrast radiography revealed severe squamous gastric ulceration and stenosis at the level of the margo plicatus. Treatment with omeprazole reduced the extent and severity of the gastric ulcers but did not affect the stenosis. The foal was euthanised because of a poor prognosis, and post‐mortem examination confirmed the clinical diagnosis. Severe squamous gastric ulceration, granulation tissue formation and cicatrisation of deep gastric lesions were considered to have caused the stenosis. Gastroduodenal outflow obstruction is a recognised disorder in foals, but stenosis at the level of the margo plicatus has not been reported in foals or adult horses. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first case of severe squamous gastric ulceration, complicated by stenosis at the level of the margo plicatus, in a foal. Although rare, gastric stenosis should be considered in foals suffering recurrent colic and regurgitation.