bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do Cooperative credit unions reduce or increase poverty in Cameroon?
Authors: Ngong Chi Aloysius , Abner Ishaku Prince , Ugbam Charles Ogechukwu , Onwumere Josaphat U. J.
Published: October 2023

Purpose

This study looks at whether credit unions, a type of microfinance, increase or decrease poverty in Cameroon from 2004 Q1 to 2021 Q4.

Method/design

The fully modified ordinary least square, dynamic ordinary least square, and conical co‐integration is applied.

Findings

The findings reveal a long‐term association between credit union measures and poverty levels. The results indicate that the number of credit unions, the number of commercial bank branches, and credit to the private sector negatively relate to poverty levels. This implies that as the number of credit unions increases, the poverty level increases as the credit unions tend to exploit the poor population. Outstanding deposits positively impact poverty levels, which imply that members’ deposits alleviate poverty.

Research implications

The government should refurbish the existing programs to enhance credit unions' activities to focus more on banking the poor population especially in remote areas. The credit unions should increase deposit mobilization from the public to empower individuals and businesses. The government should regulate the number of credit unions being created to limit exploitation. The government should intervene to ensure that credit unions’ policy regarding lending, interest rates, and loan recovery procedures are mutually agreed upon by the parties.

Originality/novelty

Limited studies used secondary data focusing on credit unions. The studies give conflicting results: Some studies reveal that microfinance banks positively affect poverty reduction. Some indicate negative effects of microfinance on poverty reduction. Others show that microfinance institutions do not significantly influence poverty reduction. Different opinions exist among depositors and borrowers of credit unions concerning poverty alleviation. Some credit union members hold that credit unions increase poverty, while others argue that credit unions alleviate poverty.
Prehistoric Mining Data: How to create Open Data from archaeological research for the ARIADNE community and beyond
Authors:   Innsbruck University, Hiebel Gerald , Danthine Brigit ,   Austrian Archaeological Institute, Peralta Friedburg Milena ,   Innsbruck University, Scherer-Windisch Manuel ,   Innsbruck University
Published: October 2023

Making archaeological data available for the scientific community received a major boost through the ARIADNE Infrastructure projects that began in 2013. The purpose of this article is to present a methodology for converting excavation and field survey documentation from its original source into a format that corresponds to the FAIR principles and commits to the ARIADNE guidelines, with the ultimate goal to make the data publicly available and incorporating them into the ARIADNE portal. The methodology is illustrated by excavation and field survey reports that have been created according to the requirements of the Austrian Federal Monuments Office and document the archaeological investigations undertaken in the project 'Prehistoric copper production in the eastern and central Alps'. These were further processed in an Open Research Data pilot project, which initiated the development of the methodology. This consists of a pipeline to convert excavation and field survey reports to lasting file formats and extract information on sites, archaeological structures, stratigraphic units and finds from the reports to create CIDOC CRM encoded RDF data. The goal of the pipeline is to lower the entry threshold for creating such data by making data entry easy, using spreadsheets and applying easy to install and open-source (at least freely available) tools. All components of the pipeline are freely available, and detailed documentation with installation instructions and sample data can be downloaded for those who wish to test the methodology and try it out using their own data.
On the Nonlinear Stochastic Dynamics of an Atomic Force Microscope Cantilever
Authors: Kumar Singh Aman , Ramakrishnan Subramanian
Published: October 2023

Atomic force microscopy (AFM) serves characterization and actuation in nanoscale applications. We study the stochastic dynamics of an AFM cantilever under tip-sample interactions represented by the Lennard–Jones and Morse potential energy functions. In both cases, we also study the contrasting dynamic effects of additive (external) and multiplicative (internal) noise. Moreover, for multiplicative noise, we study the two sub-cases arising from the Itô and Stratonovich interpretations of stochastic integrals. In each case, we also investigate the stochastic stability of the system by tracing the time evolution of the maximal Lyapunov exponent. Additionally, we obtain stationary probability densities for the unforced dynamics using stochastic averaging.
Customizing Textile and Tactile Skins for Interactive Industrial Robots
Authors: Su Bo Ying , Wei Zhongqi , McCann James , Yuan Wenzhen , Liu Changliu
Published: October 2023

Tactile skins made from textiles enhance the robot–human interaction by localizing contact points and measuring contact forces. This paper presents a solution for rapidly fabricating, calibrating, and deploying these skins on industrial robot arms. The novel automated skin calibration procedure maps skin locations to robot geometry and calibrates contact force. Through experiments on a FANUC LR Mate 200id/7L industrial robot, we demonstrate that tactile skins made from textiles can be effectively used for human–robot interaction in industrial environments, and can provide unique opportunities in robot control and learning, making them a promising technology for enhancing robot perception and interaction.
Serviceability Limit State Assessment of Semi-Submersible Floating Wind Turbines
Authors: Wang Shuaishuai , Moan Torgeir
Published: October 2023

The design of a floating wind turbine (FWT) should satisfy the serviceability limit state (SLS) requirement for an efficient and safe operation throughout the entire work life. The SLS requirements are introduced by the owner/developer of the wind turbine facility to achieve serviceability (production of power) or an efficient operation of the facility or a “first step” towards ensuring safety. Currently, there is limited information about SLS requirements in design standards. This study deals with an assessment of current methods, criteria, and procedure for the SLS design check with an emphasis on tilt/pitch and nacelle accelerations in view of power production and its fluctuations. Moreover, other criteria, on the borderline between serviceability and safety criteria, e.g., relating to clearance, are briefly discussed. The criteria relating to power production are illustrated in a case study with a 10-MW semi-submersible FWT considered for an offshore site in the Northern North Sea. Simplified static/dynamic analysis methods for use in the global design phase and high fidelity integrated, dynamic analysis methods for detailed design in terms of serviceability are presented, discussed, and applied in the case study. A good understanding of wind turbine dynamic performance associated with serviceability is essential to facilitate design decision-making. The relative contribution of wind and wave loads to the different SLS criteria is investigated. Finally, the main conclusions are summarized. In lieu of the current state of the art regarding SLS requirements for FWTs, we hope that this study provides a basis for improving design standards and guiding research and engineering practice for the semi-submersible floater design of FWTs.
INTERCULTURAL DIALOGUE IN PORTUGAL: A LEGAL-ANTHROPOLOGICAL ANALYSIS ON STATE INTERVENTION IN MINORITY ISSUES
Authors:   Max Planck Institute for the Study of Religious & Ethnic Diversity, Monteiro de Matos Mariana
Published: October 2023

Portugal enacted 1999 the Protection of Children and Young People in Danger Act (PCYPDA), intending to guarantee the children’s well-being and integral development in an ever-evolving plural society, for which the notion of parental care is a contentious matter. In analyzing the PCYPDA two decades later, this analysis notes the substantial case law associated with it that constitutes the so-called Portuguese multicultural jurisprudence (Foblets and Dundes Renteln 2009). Those cases concern mainly state intervention in families with ethnic backgrounds­—Roma and Afro-descendant peoples—and suggest an “intercultural dialogue.” This paper engages with the case law related to the PCYPDA through an anthropologically-informed approach to legal research (Dembour 2020). It addresses the questions of to which extent state intervention is necessary for family matters and the modalities of such intervention. Notably, the PCYPDA had impact on an international level with the case Soares de Melo v Portugal (2016), which condemned Portugal for violating the right to respect for private and family life (Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights) due to the placement of Afro-descendant children for adoption on grounds of the mother’s poverty and refusal to undergo sterilization.
Helping students see bacteria in 3D: cellular models increase student learning about cell size and diffusion
Authors: Wollmuth Emily M. , Correa Alberto , Alvarado Obando Manuela , Smith Michelle K. , Buckley Daniel H. , Hefferon Kathleen L. , Angert Esther R.
Published: October 2023

In the microbial world, cell size and shape impact physiology, but students struggle to visualize spatial relationships between cells and macromolecules. In prokaryotic cells, cell size is limited by reliance on diffusion for nutrient uptake and the transport of nutrients within the cell. Cells must also meet a minimum size threshold to accommodate essential cellular components such as ribosomes and DNA. Using 3D printing allows for the creation of custom models that can be influential teaching tools in the biology classroom. This lesson uses 3D cell models to teach students enrolled in an introductory microbiology course about bacterial cell size and the biological importance of surface-area-to-volume ratio. During the lesson, students interact with 3D cell models and discuss a series of questions in small groups. Student learning was assessed using quantitative and qualitative student response data collected pre- and post-lesson. Student achievement of learning objectives, and their confidence in their knowledge of these concepts, improved post-lesson, and these gains were statistically significant. Our findings suggest that interacting with 3D-printed cell models improves student understanding about bacterial cell size and diffusion.
Recurrent copy number variations in the human fungal pathogen
Candida parapsilosis
Authors: Selmecki Anna
Published: October 2023

Candida parapsilosis
is an opportunistic fungal pathogen with increasing incidence in hospital settings worldwide; however, we lack a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms promoting its virulence and drug resistance. Bergin et al. systematically quantify the frequency and effect of copy number variation (CNV) across 170 diverse clinical and environmental isolates of
C. parapsilosis
(Bergin SA, Zhao F, Ryan AP, Müller CA, Nieduszynski CA, Zhai B, Rolling T, Hohl TM, Morio F, Scully J, Wolfe KH, Butler G, 2022, mBio,
https://doi.org/10.1128/mbio.01777-22
). Using a combination of both short- and long-read whole genome sequencing techniques, they determine the structure and copy number of two CNVs that arose recurrently throughout the evolution of these isolates. Each CNV predominantly amplifies one coding sequence (
ARR3
or
RTA3
); however, the amplitude and recombination breakpoints are variable across the isolates. Amplification of
RTA3
correlates with drug resistance and deletion causes drug susceptibility. This study highlights the need for further research into the mechanisms and dynamics of CNV formation and the impact of these CNVs on virulence and drug resistance across diverse fungal pathogens.
Complete genome sequence of
Mycolicibacterium mageritense
strain H4_3_1 isolated from a hybrid biological-inorganic system reactor
Authors: Feng Xiang , Kazama Daichi , Sato Kozo , Kobayashi Hajime
Published: October 2023

We report the complete genome of
Mycolicibacterium mageritense
strain H4_3_1, which was isolated from a reactor of a hybrid biological-inorganic system. This genome will provide useful information about hydrogen-oxidizing bacteria as well as mycolicibacteria in non-host environments.
Draft whole-genome sequences of
Bacillus
strains of potential probiotic for poultry
Authors: Ma Li Maria , Lopez Nicolas , Zhang Guodong
Published: October 2023

Bacillus
species have been widely selected and used as probiotics for humans and animals. In this article, we reported draft whole-genome sequences of four
Bacillus
strains isolated from sourdough and chicken cecum and previously selected as potential probiotics for poultry. These genome sequences will provide a foundation for further characterization and understanding of their probiotic attributes.
The multidrug efflux pump regulator AcrR directly represses motility in
Escherichia coli
Authors: Maldonado Jessica , Czarnecka Barbara , Harmon Dana E. , Ruiz Cristian
Published: October 2023

Efflux and motility are two key biological functions in bacteria. Recent findings have shown that efflux impacts flagellum biosynthesis and motility in
Escherichia coli
and other bacteria. AcrR is known to be the major transcriptional repressor of AcrAB-TolC, the main multidrug efflux pump in
E. coli
and other
Enterobacteriaceae
. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms of how efflux and motility are co-regulated remain poorly understood. Here, we have studied the role of AcrR in direct regulation of motility in
E. coli
. By combining bioinformatics, electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSAs), gene expression, and motility experiments, we have found that AcrR represses motility in
E. coli
by directly repressing transcription of the
flhDC
operon, but not the other flagellum genes/operons tested.
flhDC
encodes the master regulator of flagellum biosynthesis and motility genes. We found that such regulation primarily occurs by direct binding of AcrR to the
flhDC
promoter region containing the first of the two predicted AcrR-binding sites identified in this promoter. This is the first report of direct regulation by AcrR of genes unrelated to efflux or detoxification. Moreover, we report that overexpression of AcrR restores to parental levels the increased swimming motility previously observed in
E. coli
strains without a functional AcrAB-TolC pump, and that such effect by AcrR is prevented by the AcrR ligand and AcrAB-TolC substrate ethidium bromide. Based on these and prior findings, we provide a novel model in which AcrR senses efflux and then co-regulates efflux and motility in
E. coli
to maintain homeostasis and escape hazards.

IMPORTANCE

Efflux and motility play a major role in bacterial growth, colonization, and survival. In
Escherichia coli
, the transcriptional repressor AcrR is known to directly repress efflux and was later found to also repress flagellum biosynthesis and motility by Kim et al. (J Microbiol Biotechnol 26:1824–1828, 2016, doi: 10.4014/jmb.1607.07058). However, it remained unknown whether AcrR represses flagellum biosynthesis and motility directly and through which target genes, or indirectly because of altering the amount of efflux. This study reveals that AcrR represses flagellum biosynthesis and motility by directly repressing the expression of the
flhDC
master regulator of flagellum biosynthesis and motility genes, but not the other flagellum genes tested. We also show that the antimicrobial, efflux pump substrate, and AcrR ligand ethidium bromide regulates motility via AcrR. Overall, these findings support a novel model of direct co-regulation of efflux and motility mediated by AcrR in response to stress in
E. coli
.
Joining the bacterial conversation: increasing the cultivation efficiency of soil bacteria with acyl-homoserine lactones and cAMP
Authors: Lopez Marin Marco A. , Strejcek Michal , Uhlik Ondrej
Published: October 2023

Bacteria need to be isolated in pure culture to gain access to the wide array of interesting functions they conceal. This is challenging because they do not live in isolation but instead in communities where they actively communicate and interact with each other. In this study, we aimed to increase the culturability of soil bacteria using three different signaling molecules: N-(3-oxohexanoyl)-L-homoserine lactone, N-octanoyl-L-homoserine lactone, and 3',5'-cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). The signals were added individually to soils suspended in PBS buffer to a final concentration of 5 µM. Soil suspensions were agitated for 24 hours, after which they were serially diluted and plated on tenfold-diluted Reasoner’s 2A agar that either contained or did not contain the same signaling molecule used during the extraction step. DNA was isolated from both soil suspensions and grown cultures and, after a high-throughput amplicon sequencing, differences in bacterial abundances and diversity were determined across treatments. To further explain the action of the signaling molecules on the treated soil communities, their metagenomic functions were predicted using the software PICRUSt2. N-octanoyl-L-homoserine lactone was found to increase the diversity observed on solid media, while N-(3-oxohexanoyl)-L-homoserine lactone and cAMP were not. Potentially novel isolates aided by the signaling molecules were affiliated with the generaPseudomonasandNocardioides.

IMPORTANCE

Microorganisms are a repository of interesting metabolites and functions. Therefore, accessing them is an important exercise for advancing not only basic questions about their physiology but also to advance technological applications. In this sense, increasing the culturability of environmental microorganisms remains an important endeavor for modern microbiology. Because microorganisms do not live in isolation in their environments, molecules can be added to the cultivation strategies to “inform them” that they are present in growth-permissive environmental conditions. Signaling molecules such as acyl-homoserine lactones and 3',5'-cyclic adenosine monophosphate belong to the plethora of molecules used by bacteria to communicate with each other in a phenomenon called quorum sensing. Therefore, including quorum sensing molecules can be an incentive for microorganisms, specifically soil bacteria, to increase their numbers on solid media.
Transient reactive phlebitis and intravenous ciprofloxacin: Is there an association?
Authors: Rao Akshay , Patil Deena , Thyagaraj Vijayashree , Shankar Shreyank Honnavara , Balawat Aishwarya
Published: October 2023

Transient reactive phlebitis (TRP) is a rare adverse event seen with intravenous infusion of medications. It is characterised by the appearance of erythematous cord-like lesions along the superficial veins proximal to the site of infusion. It is rarely seen with drugs such as morphine, rocuronium, eptifibatide, propofol and vancomycin. The exact pathogenesis is not clear; however, certain proposed mechanisms are due to the direct activation of C-nociceptors, activation of the kallikrein-kinin system with bradykinin release, local mediator release or histamine release. Here, we report a case of TRP due to ciprofloxacin infusion.
Effect of multi-level interventions on mental health outcomes among adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review
Authors: Mthiyane Nondumiso , Rapulana Antony M , Harling Guy , Copas Andrew , Shahmanesh Maryam
Published: October 2023

Objective

In sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), multiple factors contribute to the considerable burden of mental health disorders among adolescents, highlighting the need for interventions that address underlying risks at multiple levels. We reviewed evidence of the effectiveness of community or family-level interventions, with and without individual level interventions, on mental health disorders among adolescents in SSA.

Design

Systematic review using the Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach.

Data sources

A systematic search was conducted on Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, EMBASE, PSYCINFO and Web of Science up to 31 March 2021.

Eligibility criteria

Studies were eligible for inclusion in the review if they were randomised controlled trials (RCTs) or controlled quasi-experimental studies conducted in sub-Saharan African countries and measured the effect of an intervention on common mental disorders in adolescents aged 10–24 years.

Data extraction and synthesis

We included studies that assessed the effect of interventions on depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder and substance abuse. Substance abuse was only considered if it was measured alongside mental health disorders. The findings were summarised using synthesis without meta-analysis, where studies were grouped according to the type of intervention (multi-level, community-level) and participants.

Results

Of 1197 studies that were identified, 30 studies (17 RCTs and 3 quasi-experimental studies) were included in the review of which 10 delivered multi-level interventions and 20 delivered community-level interventions. Synthesised findings suggest that multi-level interventions comprise economic empowerment, peer-support, cognitive behavioural therapy were effective in improving mental health among vulnerable adolescents. Majority of studies that delivered interventions to community groups reported significant positive changes in mental health outcomes.

Conclusions

The evidence from this review suggests that multi-level interventions can reduce mental health disorders in adolescents. Further research is needed to understand the reliability and sustainability of these promising interventions in different African contexts.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42021258826.
Silver linings of ADHD: a thematic analysis of adults’ positive experiences with living with ADHD
Authors: Nordby Emilie S. , Guribye Frode , Nordgreen Tine , Lundervold Astri J.
Published: October 2023

Objectives

To identify and explore positive aspects of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as reported by adults with the diagnosis.

Design

The current study used a qualitative survey design including the written responses to an open-ended question on positive aspects of ADHD. The participants’ responses were analysed using thematic analysis.

Setting

The participants took part in trial of a self-guided internet-delivered intervention in Norway. As part of the intervention, the participants were asked to describe positive aspects of having ADHD.

Participants

The study included 50 help-seeking adults with an ADHD diagnosis.

Results

The participants described a variety of positive aspects related to having ADHD. The participants’ experiences were conceptualised and thematically organised into four main themes: (1) the dual impact of ADHD characteristics; (2) the unconventional mind; (3) the pursuit of new experiences and (4) resilience and growth.

Conclusions

Having ADHD was experienced as both challenging and beneficial, depending on the context and one’s sociocultural environment. The findings provide arguments for putting a stronger emphasis on positive aspects of ADHD, alongside the challenges, in treatment settings.

Trial registration number

NCT04511169
Comparing persistence of new biologics to conventional anti-TNF alphas in adult patients with inflammatory bowel disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis protocol
Authors: Yiu Tsz Hong , Ko Yanna , Pudipeddi Aviv , Natale Patrizia , Leong Rupert W
Published: October 2023

Background

Biological therapy is a cornerstone of managing moderate-to-severe inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s disease (CD). New biologics have been evolving over the past 20 years and selection of an agent remains challenging.

Drug persistence measures the duration of time from initiation to discontinuation of a therapy, which can be a surrogate marker of drug tolerance and efficacy.

Objectives

The study aimed to compare drug persistence of new generation biologics for the treatment of UC and CD (vedolizumab, ustekinumab, certolizumab, tofacitinib, natalizumab and golimumab) with conventional anti-tumor necroisis factor alphas (anti-TNF alphas) (adalimumab and infliximab) in adult patients with IBD. Results of the study may provide guidance on the preferred first and subsequent lines of biological treatments in patients with IBD.

Methods and analysis

Search via electronic databases including EMBASE, MEDLINE, PubMed and clinical trial databases will be conducted on 10 March 2023 with eligible studies included from inception of 2017 to 2023. The primary outcomes are 1-year persistence of individual biologics with comparison of new biologics versus conventional anti-TNF alphas. A meta-analysis will be conducted using Review Manager V.5 and outcome will be presented as relative risk. Heterogeneity will be assessed with forest plot, χ2and I2, followed with sensitivity analysis and subgroup analysis. Finally, the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation system will be used to assess the quality of evidence.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval is not required as no private information of participants will be used. Results of the present study will be disseminated in a peer-reviewed journal or conference presentation.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42023392236.
Correlation of drug exposure and bacterial susceptibility with treatment response forMycobacterium avium complexlung disease: protocol for a prospective observational cohort study
Authors: Zheng Xubin , Wang Li , Davies Forsman Lina , Zhang Yangyi , Chen Yuhang , Luo Xuejiao , Liu Yidian , Bruchfeld Judith , Hu Yi , Alffenaar Jan-Willem C , Sha Wei , Xu Biao
Published: October 2023

Introduction

The burden ofMycobacterium avium complex(MAC) lung disease is increasing globally and treatment outcome is in general poor. Therapeutic drug monitoring has the potential to improve treatment outcome by ensuring adequate drug exposure. However, very limited population-based studies exist for MAC lung disease. This study aims to describe the distribution of drug exposure for key antimycobacterial drugs at population level, and to analyse them in relationship to treatment outcome in patients with MAC lung disease.

Methods and analysis

A prospective cohort aiming to include 100 adult patients diagnosed with and treated for MAC lung disease will be conducted in Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, China. Blood samples will be collected after 1 month MAC treatment for measurement of macrolides, rifamycin, ethambutol, amikacin and/or fluoroquinolones, using a validated liquid-chromatography tandem mass spectrometry method. Respiratory samples will be collected at inclusion and once every 3 months for mycobacterial culture until treatment completion. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) determination will be performed using a commercial broth microdilution plate. In addition to mycobacterial culture, disease severity and clinical improvement will be assessed from the perspective of lung function, radiological presentation and self-reported quality of life. Whole genome sequencing will be performed for any longitudinal isolates with significant change of MIC to explore the emergence of drug resistance-conferring mutations. The relationship between drug exposure and treatment outcome will be analysed and potential confounders will be considered for adjustment in multivariable models. Meanwhile, the associations between drug exposure in relation to MIC and markers of treatment response will be explored using Cox proportional hazards or binary logistic regression models, as appropriate.

Ethics and dissemination

This study has been approved by the ethics committee of Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital (No. K22-149Z). Written and oral informed consent will be obtained from all participants. The study results will be submitted to a peer-reviewed journal.

Trial registeration number

NCT05824988.
Improving the quality of the fracture liaison service through the implementation of a structured health record
Authors: Djuv Ane , Harboe Knut , Nysted Hege , Kirkhus Toril Kristin , Horpestad Oda , Birkeland Fredrik Holten , Mehl Birgitte Wågsæther , Johnsen Erlend , Paulsen Aksel
Published: October 2023

Objective

According to the best practice framework for secondary fracture prevention, all patients aged ≥50 years with a fracture should be assessed for osteoporosis within the fracture liaison service (FLS). The framework includes an FLS quality registry database to ensure quality. The input of data into our FLS registry was time-consuming and required entering data twice: into both the journal record and the registry. A ‘3-in-1’ solution was required: (1) developing a structured health record (SHR) to provide decision-support to FLS nurses during patient consultations; (2) making a structured journal record from the SHR and (3) exporting data to the quality registry database. The SHR needed to be web based, secure and available for use all over the world.

Design

One provider at Stavanger University Hospital met all the criteria for further development of the record (CheckWare). An interdisciplinary working group was established, following the Plan–Do–Study–Act working model. Depending on the answers given, the FLS nurses were provided decision-making support. A significant loss of height (≥4 cm) was highlighted as one of the process quality indicators. All clinically relevant data were summarised in a report, which was exported to the health record software. Data were exported to the FLS quality registry.

Results

All fracture patients in need of a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scan received an appointment at the FLS outpatient clinic and 96% attended. The minimum standard was met for the three quality indicators 1–3). In particular, the use of SHRs increased the number of patients investigated for vertebral fractures with a height loss ≥4 cm from 67% to 93%.

Conclusion

The SHR was successful in regard to the ‘3-in-1’ solution: providing decision support to FLS nurses, developing structured journal records and exporting data to the FLS quality registry. After implementation, all FLS registry quality indicators improved.
Are we achieving the standards of good nutritional care for older people in hospital with fragility fractures?
Authors: Sahota Amunpreet , Marsh Kirandeep , Avery Amanda , Sahota Opinder
Published: October 2023

Malnutrition is common in older people with fragility fractures and is associated with poor clinical outcomes and increased risk of complications. The UK National Health Service has published national standards for food and drink for patients, staff and visitors, in hospitals. These standards describe the methods to ensure quality and sustainability.

We assessed these standards and report the nutritional status of older (70 years of age) patients admitted to hospital with fragility fracture, and weighed food trolley and plate waste after lunch and supper for five days.

There were 19 older patients with fragility fractures on the trauma and orthopaedic ward. The mean intake for 'nutritionally well' was 1592 kcal/day and 65.7 g/day protein; the mean intake for 'nutritionally vulnerable' was 643 kcal/day and 24.8 g/day protein.

Although all key characteristics of good nutrition and hydration care for patients in hospital were achieved, energy and protein intake was poor in the nutritionally vulnerable group. Further interventions are necessary to improve dietary intake in hospital, particularly in those who are nutritionally vulnerable.
Preventing the next fragility fracture: a cross-sectional survey of secondary fragility fracture prevention services worldwide
Authors: Singh Sonia , van den Berg Peter , Fergusson Kim , Martins Pinto Juliana , Koerner-Bungey Tasha , Chan Ding-Chen (Derrick) , Boonnasa Wararat , Javaid Muhaamad K , Speerin Robyn
Published: October 2023

Background

There has been an increasing awareness of the public health impact of fragility fractures due to osteoporosis and the imperative of addressing this health burden with well-designed secondary fragility fracture prevention services (SFFPS). The objectives of this survey, conducted within the international membership of the Fragility Fracture Network (FFN), were to identify gaps in services and identify the needs for further training and mentorship to improve the quality of SFFPS provided to patients who sustain fragility fractures.

Methods

We conducted an electronic cross-sectional survey of FFN Secondary Fracture Prevention Special Interest Group (SIG) members from April 2021 to June 2021 using SurveyMonkey. The survey questions were developed by four SIG members from New Zealand, Australia, Canada and the Netherlands, who have experience in developing, implementing and evaluating SFFPS. The sampling framework was convenience sampling of all 1162 registered FFN Secondary Fracture Prevention SIG members. Descriptive analyses were performed for all variables and presented as frequencies and percentages.

Results

69 individuals participated in the survey, from 34 different countries over six continents, with a response rate of 6% (69/1162). Almost one-third of respondents (22/69) were from 15 countries within the European continent. Key findings included: (1) 25% of SFFPS only included patients with hip fracture; (2) less than 5% of SFFPS had any mandatory core competencies for training; (3) 38.7% of SFFPS were required to collect key performance indicators; and (4) 9% were collecting patient-reported outcome measures.

Conclusions

This survey identified key areas for improving SFFPS, including: expanding the reach of SFFPS to more patients with fragility fracture, developing international core competencies for health provider training, using key performance indicators to improve SFFPS and including the patient voice in SFFPS development. These findings will be used by the FFN to support SFFPS development internationally.
Comparing two different orthogeriatric models of care for hip fracture patients: an observational prospective cross-sectional study
Authors: Solberg Lene Bergendal , Vesterhus Elise Berg , Hestnes Ingvild , Ahmed Marc Vali , Ommundsen Nina , Westberg Marianne , Frihagen Frede
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Patients with hip fractures are almost always operated with quite extensive surgery and are often frail with a high risk of complications, increased dependency, and death. Orthogeriatric interdisciplinary care has shown better results compared with orthopaedic care alone. The best way of delivering orthogeriatric care, however, is still largely unknown. It is believed that a high degree of integration and shared care is better than on-demand consultative services. We aimed to evaluate two different orthogeriatric models for patients with hip fracture.

Methods

A prospective hip fracture quality database was used to evaluate two coexisting models of care from 2019 to 2021 in our hospital. An ‘integrated care model’ (ICM) was compared with a ‘geriatric consult service’ (GCS).

Results

516 patients were available for analysis, 360 from ICM and 156 from GCS. Mean age was 84 years. There were 370 (72%) women. American Society of Anesthesiologists class and prefracture cognitive impairment was similar between the groups. There were more patients with femoral neck fractures in the ICM group, and more patients were living independently prefracture. A logistic regression adjusting for the variables above showed that more patients in the ICM group were given a nerve block preoperatively (OR 2.0 (95% CI 1.31 to 2.97); p<0.01), had their urinary catheter removed the first day after surgery (OR 1.9 (95% CI 1.27 to 2.89); p<0.01), were mobilised to standing or seated in a chair beside the bed the first day after surgery (OR 1.5 (95% CI 1.03 to 2.30); p=0.033) and more ICM patients were considered for treatment against osteoporosis (OR 8.58 (95% CI 4.03 to 18.28); p<0.001). There were no significant differences in time to surgery, length of stay, discharge destination or mortality.

Conclusion

The ICM group performed equally good or better on all quality indicators than the GCS.
Novel function of MOTS-c in mitochondrial remodelling contributes to its antiviral role during HBV infection
Authors: Lin Caorui , Luo Linjie , Xun Zhen , Zhu Chenggong , Huang Ying , Ye Yuchen , Zhang Jiawei , Chen Tianbin , Wu Songhang , Zhan Fuguo , Yang Bin , Liu Can , Ran Ning , Ou Qishui
Published: October 2023

Objective

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection causes substantial harm to mitochondrial activity, which hinders the development of effective treatments for chronic hepatitis B (CHB). The discovery of the mitochondrial-derived short peptide MOTS-c, which possesses multiple bioactivities, offers a promising new approach in treating HBV infection. This study aims to explore the diagnostic and therapeutic potential of MOTS-c in HBV-related diseases and its molecular mechanism.

Design

In total, 85 healthy subjects and 404 patients with HBV infection, including 20 clinical treatment cohorts, were recruited for this study. MOTS-c levels were measured by ELISA and its diagnostic value was evaluated by receiving operating characteristic curve analysis. The therapeutic effect of MOTS-c was observed in multiple HBV-infected mice and cells through various techniques, including transcriptomic sequencing, flow cytometry, immunofluorescence and electron microscopy. Additionally, MOTS-c’s potential interaction with myosin-9 (MYH9) and actin was predicted using immunoprecipitation, proteomics and target prediction software.

Results

MOTS-c negatively correlates with HBV DNA expression (R=−0.71), and its AUC (the area under the curve) for distinguishing CHB from healthy controls is 0.9530, and IA (immune reactive) from IC (inactive HBV carrier) is 0.8689. Inhibition of HBV replication (with a 50–70% inhibition rate) was observed alongside improved liver function without notable toxicity in vitro or in vivo. MOTS-c was found to promote mitochondrial biogenesis and enhance the MAVS (mitochondrial antiviral signalling protein) signalling pathway. The impact is dependent on MOTS-c’s ability to regulate MYH9-actin-mediated mitochondrial homeostasis.

Conclusion

MOTS-c has the potential to serve as a biomarker for the progression of HBV infection while also enhancing antiviral efficacy. These findings present a promising innovative approach for effectively treating patients with CHB. Furthermore, our research uncovers a novel role for MOTS-c in regulating MYH9-actin-mediated mitochondrial dynamics and contributing to mitochondrial biogenesis.
Late Ediacaran–early Cambrian rifting along the northern margin of Laurentia: constraints from the Yelverton Formation of Ellesmere Island, Canada
Authors: Faehnrich Karol , McClelland William C. , Webb Laura , Kośmińska Karolina , Strauss Justin V.
Published: October 2023

Neoproterozoic to early Paleozoic strata exposed along the northeastern margin of North America (Franklinian Basin) record a prolonged history of rifting and passive margin development. An episode of Ediacaran–Cambrian extension is potentially recorded in volcanic and sedimentary rocks of the Yelverton Formation, exposed on northern Ellesmere Island, Nunavut, Canada. Here, we present new whole-rock trace element and isotope geochemistry and hornblende 40Ar/39Ar geochronology from intrusive and extrusive rocks of the Yelverton Formation, along with isotope geochemistry from carbonate rocks underlying the volcanics and detrital zircon U–Pb and Lu–Hf isotopic data from the Yelverton Formation and overlying Grant Land Formation. The carbonate strata yielded an average 87Sr/86Sr value of 0.7076 ( n = 6), constraining the overlying volcanics to the late Ediacaran–early Cambrian (ca. 570–530 Ma). Flows and dikes/sills show three distinct compositions: (1) a depleted, low La/YbPM and Th/Nb group, (2) an enriched, higher La/YbPM and low Th/Nb group, and (3) a low to moderate La/YbPM and high Th/Nb group. One of the high Th/Nb intrusions produced saddle-shaped 40Ar/39Ar hornblende spectra with ca. 482 ± 7 Ma age minima and Silurian–Devonian inverse isochron ages, highlighting a hitherto unknown suite of younger intrusions and volcanic rocks. The trace element geochemistry and 143Nd/144Nd(t) ratios of enriched and depleted volcanic rocks of the indisputable Yelverton Formation are consistent with decompression melting during rifting along a continental margin. We suggest that late Ediacaran–early Cambrian rifting recorded in the Yelverton Formation resulted in the separation of peri-Laurentian terranes, such as the North Slope subterrane and eventual development of the passive margin of northern Laurentia.
Discrete symmetries of Dirac’s theory in the de Sitter manifold
Authors: Cotăescu Ion I. , Cotăescu Ion
Published: October 2023

The discrete symmetries of Dirac’s free field on the de Sitter manifold are studied, taking into account that this has two portions that can play the role of physical space-times, namely an expanding and a collapsing universe. The proper discrete isometries which preserve the portion have a physical meaning, in contrast to the improper ones, which change the portion being thus merely of mathematical interest. The discrete symmetries generated by the proper isometries and charge conjugation are studied in physical frames on the expanding portion, showing that all discrete transformations reversing the cosmic time are local, depending on a local boost matrix. The discrete group of Dirac’s theory in the de Sitter expanding universe is obtained, showing that this is of the order 16, having a multiplication table similar to that of Dirac’s theory in special relativity. Moreover, all the discrete de Sitter isometries, including the improper ones, are studied in conformal frames for obtaining a global image of the de Sitter isometries, despite the fact that these cannot be gathered in a larger discrete group with physical meaning.
Six Ideas for Building a Vibrant Online Professional Community
Authors: Sprute Katie , McCabe Crystal , Basko Lynn , Danuser Paul , Mandernach Jean
Published: October 2023

Building vibrant, online professional learning communities (PLCs) is crucial to combat the isolation experienced by online faculty and facilitate their professional growth, with strategies such as prioritizing relationship building, empowering all faculty with a voice, recognizing their achievements, ensuring relevant and targeted content, teaching best pedagogical practices, and accommodating faculty needs. By nurturing a supportive and collaborative online environment, institutions can help faculty overcome remote teaching challenges, connect them to valuable resources, and enhance their professional and personal fulfillment in their roles as online educators.
How Can Genomics Help or Hinder Wildlife Conservation?
Authors: Schmidt Thomas L. , Thia Joshua A. , Hoffmann Ary A.
Published: October 2023

Genomic data are becoming increasingly affordable and easy to collect, and new tools for their analysis are appearing rapidly. Conservation biologists are interested in using this information to assist in management and planning but are typically limited financially and by the lack of genomic resources available for non-model taxa. It is therefore important to be aware of the pitfalls as well as the benefits of applying genomic approaches. Here, we highlight recent methods aimed at standardizing population assessments of genetic variation, inbreeding, and forms of genetic load and methods that help identify past and ongoing patterns of genetic interchange between populations, including those subjected to recent disturbance. We emphasize challenges in applying some of these methods and the need for adequate bioinformatic support. We also consider the promises and challenges of applying genomic approaches to understand adaptive changes in natural populations to predict their future adaptive capacity.
Peeking Into the Black Box of T Cell Receptor Signaling
Authors: Weiss Arthur
Published: October 2023

I have spent more than the last 40 years at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), studying T cell receptor (TCR) signaling. I was blessed with supportive mentors, an exceptionally talented group of trainees, and wonderful collaborators and colleagues during my journey who have enabled me to make significant contributions to our understanding of how the TCR initiates signaling. TCR signaling events contribute to T cell development as well as to mature T cell activation and differentiation.
Stabilization of Cx43 mRNA via RNA-binding protein HuR regulated by polyamines enhances intestinal epithelial barrier function
Authors: Wang Shelley R. , Mallard Caroline G. , Cairns Cassandra A. , Chung Hee Kyoung , Yoo Dongyoon , Jaladanki Suraj K. , Xiao Lan , Wang Jian-Ying
Published: October 2023

The current study shows that polyamines stabilize the Cx43 mRNA via HuR, thus enhancing the function of the Cx43-mediated gap junction. These findings suggest that induced Cx43 by HuR plays a critical role in the process by which polyamines regulate intestinal epithelial barrier.
Transcriptional regulation of metabolism in the intestinal epithelium
Authors: Burclaff Joseph
Published: October 2023

Epithelial metabolism in the intestine is increasingly known to be important for stem cell maintenance and activity while also affecting weight gain and diseases. This review compiles studies from recent years which describe major transcription factors controlling metabolic activity across the intestinal epithelium as well as transcriptional and epigenetic networks controlling the factors themselves. Recent studies show that transcriptional regulators serve as the link between signals from the microbiota and diet and epithelial metabolism. Studies have advanced this paradigm to identify druggable targets to block weight gain or disease progression in mice. As such, there is great potential that a better understanding of these regulatory networks will improve our knowledge of intestinal physiology and promote discoveries to benefit human health.
Kynurenine pathway metabolism evolves with development of preclinical and scleroderma-associated pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Simpson Catherine E. , Ambade Anjira S. , Harlan Robert , Roux Aurelie , Aja Susan , Graham David , Shah Ami A. , Hummers Laura K. , Hemnes Anna R. , Leopold Jane A. , Horn Evelyn M. , Berman-Rosenzweig Erika S. , Grunig Gabriele , Aldred Micheala A. , Barnard John , Comhair Suzy A. A. , Tang W. H. Wilson , Griffiths Megan , Rischard Franz , Frantz Robert P. , Erzurum Serpil C. , Beck Gerald J. , Hill Nicholas S. , Mathai Stephen C. , Hassoun Paul M. , Damico Rachel L. ,   and the PVDOMICS Study Group
Published: October 2023

Our study shows an early increase in kynurenine pathway metabolism in at-risk subjects with systemic sclerosis who develop pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). We show that kynurenine pathway upregulation precedes clinical diagnosis and that this metabolic shift is associated with increased disease severity and shorter survival times. We also show that gene expression of TDO2, an enzyme that generates kynurenine from tryptophan, rises with PAH development.