bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Post-starburst properties of post-merger galaxies
Authors: Li Wenhao , Nair Preethi , Rowlands Kate , Masters Karen , Stark David , Drory Niv , Ellison Sara , Irwin Jimmy , Satyapal Shobita , Jones Amy , Keel William , Mukundan Kavya , Tu Zachary
Published: May 2023

Post-starburst galaxies (PSBs) are transition galaxies showing evidence of recent rapid star formation quenching. To understand the role of galaxy mergers in triggering quenching, we investigate the incidence of PSBs and resolved PSB properties in post-merger galaxies using both SDSS single-fibre spectra and MaNGA resolved IFU spectra. We find post-mergers have a PSB excess of 10–20 times that relative to their control galaxies using single-fibre PSB diagnostics. A similar excess of ∼ 19 times is also found in the fraction of central (C)PSBs and ring-like (R)PSBs in post-mergers using the resolved PSB diagnostic. However, 60 per cent of the CPSBs + RPSBs in both post-mergers and control galaxies are missed by the single-fibre data. By visually inspecting the resolved PSB distribution, we find that the fraction of outside-in quenching is seven times higher than inside-out quenching in PSBs in post-mergers while PSBs in control galaxies do not show large differences in these quenching directions. In addition, we find a marginal deficit of H i gas in PSBs relative to non-PSBs in post-mergers using the MaNGA-H i data. The excesses of PSBs in post-mergers suggest that mergers play an important role in triggering quenching. Resolved IFU spectra are important to recover the PSBs missed by single-fibre spectra. The excess of outside-in quenching relative to inside-out quenching in post-mergers suggests that AGNs are not the dominant quenching mechanism in these galaxies, but that processes from the disc (gas inflows/consumption and stellar feedback) play a more important role.
SH2db, an information system for the SH2 domain
Authors: Bajusz Dávid , Pándy-Szekeres Gáspár , Takács Ágnes , de Araujo Elvin D , Keserű György M
Published: May 2023

SH2 domains are key mediators of phosphotyrosine-based signalling, and therapeutic targets for diverse, mostly oncological, disease indications. They have a highly conserved structure with a central beta sheet that divides the binding surface of the protein into two main pockets, responsible for phosphotyrosine binding (pY pocket) and substrate specificity (pY + 3 pocket). In recent years, structural databases have proven to be invaluable resources for the drug discovery community, as they contain highly relevant and up-to-date information on important protein classes. Here, we present SH2db, a comprehensive structural database and webserver for SH2 domain structures. To organize these protein structures efficiently, we introduce (i) a generic residue numbering scheme to enhance the comparability of different SH2 domains, (ii) a structure-based multiple sequence alignment of all 120 human wild-type SH2 domain sequences and their PDB and AlphaFold structures. The aligned sequences and structures can be searched, browsed and downloaded from the online interface of SH2db (http://sh2db.ttk.hu), with functions to conveniently prepare multiple structures into a Pymol session, and to export simple charts on the contents of the database. Our hope is that SH2db can assist researchers in their day-to-day work by becoming a one-stop shop for SH2 domain related research.
Patient-focused outcomes after initiation of dialysis for ESRD: mortality, hospitalization and functional impairment
Authors: Kolbrink Benedikt , Schüssel Katrin , von Samson-Himmelstjerna Friedrich A , Esser Grit , Floege Jürgen , Kunzendorf Ulrich , Schulte Kevin
Published: May 2023

Background

Outcome data regarding clinically relevant endpoints after starting dialysis for end-stage renal disease (ESRD) are sparse, and early events after starting dialysis are particularly underestimated. The aim of this study was to describe patient-focused outcomes in ESRD patients starting from first dialysis.

Methods

The data basis for this retrospective observational study were anonymized healthcare data from Germany's largest statutory health insurer. We identified ESRD patients who initiated dialysis in 2017. Deaths, hospitalizations and occurrence of functional impairment within 4 years after starting dialysis were recorded starting from first treatment. Hazard ratios in dialysis patients compared with an age- and sex-matched reference population without dialysis were generated, stratified by age.

Results

The dialysis cohort included 10 328 ESRD patients who started dialysis in 2017. First dialysis was performed in-hospital for 7324 patients (70.9%), and 865 of these died during the same hospitalization. One-year mortality for ESRD patients initiating dialysis was 33.8%. Functional impairment occurred in 27.1% of patients, while 82.8% of patients required hospitalization within 1 year. Hazard ratios of dialysis patients compared with the reference population for mortality, functional impairment and hospitalization at 1-year were 8.6, 4.3 and 6.2. Dialysis patients <50 years were disproportionately affected, with >40-fold increased risk of adverse events compared with their peers.

Conclusions

The emergence of morbidity and mortality after starting dialysis for ESRD is significant, especially in younger patients. Patients have a right to be informed about the prognosis associated with their condition.
Occupational Health Informatics
Authors: Adisesh Anil , Baker Christopher J O
Published: May 2023

Occupational Health Informatics is the field concerned with the optimal use of information to maximize occupational health and well-being, achieved by multidisciplinary professionals using appropriate technologies. The occupational health community should advocate for the recording of occupation in electronic health record systems. Data linkages can be created between occupation, disease, function and exposures to inform occupational functionality, recognition and recording of occupational diseases, disability accommodation and work as a health outcome.
Accommodating Non-Muslim Rights: Legal Arguments and Legal Principles in the Islamic Jurisprudence of the Indonesian Supreme Court in the Post-New Order Era
Authors: Hakim Muhammad Lutfi , Nasution Khoiruddin
Published: May 2023

Most Islamic legal literature describes non-Muslims as ‘second-class citizens’. They do not have equal rights to Muslims, particularly under Islamic inheritance law. This article attempts to re-evaluate this general assessment by presenting cases of Islamic inheritance involving non-Muslims in post-New Order Indonesia. Using five decisions of the Indonesian Supreme Court, we argue that whilst the judges’ legal arguments are relatively progressive and inclusive by accommodating non-Muslim rights, their analogical interpretation of the waṣiat wājibah (mandatory will) is still trapped in classical fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence) norms that position religious differences and apostasy as an obstacle to inheritance. Although their analogical interpretation has in some cases resulted in equal rights, the protection of non-Muslim rights has not been fully realized. The legal arguments and principles they adopt are made acceptable to the Muslim community because they maintain traditional fiqh in the context of a multicultural Indonesian society. This study has implications for equal rights among Indonesian citizens and the realization of the state’s ideals that uphold the right to freedom of religion.
Microvascular changes on nailfold capillaroscopy in acute stage of Kawasaki disease: a new diagnostic paradigm for an enigmatic condition
Authors: Reddy Konda Vishnu Vardhan , Jindal Ankur Kumar , Nadig Pallavi L , Banday Aaqib Zaffar , Vinay Keshavamurthy , Singh Surjit
Published: May 2023

Objectives

Kawasaki disease (KD) is a medium vessel vasculitis with a predilection to involve coronary arteries. However, there is a paucity of literature on microvascular changes in patients with KD.

Methods

Children diagnosed with KD based on American Heart Association guidelines 2017 were enrolled prospectively. Demographic details and echocardiographic changes in coronaries were recorded. Nailfold capillaries were assessed using Optilia Video capillaroscopy and data were analysed using Optilia Optiflix Capillaroscopy software at acute (prior to IVIG administration) and subacute/convalescent phase.

Results

We enrolled 32 children with KD (17 boys) with a median age of 3 years. Nailfold capillaroscopy (NFC) was performed in 32 patients in the acute phase (compared with 32 controls) and in 17 during the subacute/convalescent phase at a median follow-up of 15 (15–90) days after IVIG treatment. The following findings were seen in NFC in the acute phase of KD: reduced capillary density (n = 12, 38.6%), dilated capillaries (n = 3, 9.3%), ramifications (n = 3, 9.3%) and capillary haemorrhages (n = 2, 6.2%). Capillary density was reduced significantly in the acute phase of KD (38.6%) as compared with the subacute/convalescent phase (25.4%) (P-value <0.001) and controls (0%) (P-value = 0.03). We observed no correlation between coronary artery involvement and mean capillary density (P = 0.870).

Conclusion

Results show that patients with KD have significant nailfold capillary changes in the acute phase. These findings may provide a new diagnostic paradigm for KD and a window to predict coronary artery abnormalities.
Debts unravelled: trust law’s unbiased approach to resolving sovereign defaults
Authors: Mak Charles Ho Wang
Published: May 2023

Sovereign debt defaults have long ignited debate in international finance as debtors, creditors, and global entities wrestle with clashing interests. Trust law emerges as a fair and objective method, with trusts formed to manage and disburse funds for creditor advantage. This article investigates trust law’s relevance to sovereign debt defaults, presenting case studies and examining its impartiality. The article assesses trust law’s pros and cons, proposing its future use as an auxiliary tool alongside debt restructuring. In essence, the article thoroughly scrutinises trust law’s function in tackling sovereign debt defaults, highlighting its significance as a just and unbiased mechanism.
The Relationship Between Cochlear Implant Speech Perception Outcomes and Electrophysiological Measures of the Electrically Evoked Compound Action Potential
Authors: Skidmore Jeffrey , Oleson Jacob J. , Yuan Yi , He Shuman
Published: May 2023

Objective:

This study assessed the relationship between electrophysiological measures of the electrically evoked compound action potential (eCAP) and speech perception scores measured in quiet and in noise in postlingually deafened adult cochlear implant (CI) users. It tested the hypothesis that how well the auditory nerve (AN) responds to electrical stimulation is important for speech perception with a CI in challenging listening conditions.

Design:

Study participants included 24 postlingually deafened adult CI users. All participants used Cochlear Nucleus CIs in their test ears. In each participant, eCAPs were measured at multiple electrode locations in response to single-pulse, paired-pulse, and pulse-train stimuli. Independent variables included six metrics calculated from the eCAP recordings: the electrode–neuron interface (ENI) index, the neural adaptation (NA) ratio, NA speed, the adaptation recovery (AR) ratio, AR speed, and the amplitude modulation (AM) ratio. The ENI index quantified the effectiveness of the CI electrodes in stimulating the targeted AN fibers. The NA ratio indicated the amount of NA at the AN caused by a train of constant-amplitude pulses. NA speed was defined as the speed/rate of NA. The AR ratio estimated the amount of recovery from NA at a fixed time point after the cessation of pulse-train stimulation. AR speed referred to the speed of recovery from NA caused by previous pulse-train stimulation. The AM ratio provided a measure of AN sensitivity to AM cues. Participants’ speech perception scores were measured using Consonant-Nucleus-Consonant (CNC) word lists and AzBio sentences presented in quiet, as well as in noise at signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs) of +10 and +5 dB. Predictive models were created for each speech measure to identify eCAP metrics with meaningful predictive power.

Results:

The ENI index and AR speed individually explained at least 10% of the variance in most of the speech perception scores measured in this study, while the NA ratio, NA speed, the AR ratio, and the AM ratio did not. The ENI index was identified as the only eCAP metric that had unique predictive power for each of the speech test results. The amount of variance in speech perception scores (both CNC words and AzBio sentences) explained by the eCAP metrics increased with increased difficulty under the listening condition. Over half of the variance in speech perception scores measured in +5 dB SNR noise (both CNC words and AzBio sentences) was explained by a model with only three eCAP metrics: the ENI index, NA speed, and AR speed.

Conclusions:

Of the six electrophysiological measures assessed in this study, the ENI index is the most informative predictor for speech perception performance in CI users. In agreement with the tested hypothesis, the response characteristics of the AN to electrical stimulation are more important for speech perception with a CI in noise than they are in quiet.
Black cohosh extracts in women with menopausal symptoms: an updated pairwise meta-analysis
Authors: Sadahiro Ryoichi , Matsuoka Lillian Nohara , Zeng Bing-Syuan , Chen Keng-Hsu , Zeng Bing-Yan , Wang Hung-Yu , Chu Che-Sheng , Stubbs Brendon , Su Kuan-Pin , Tu Yu-Kang , Wu Yi-Cheng , Lin Pao-Yen , Chen Tien-Yu , Chen Yen-Wen , Suen Mein-Woei , Hopwood Malcolm , Yang Wei-Cheng , Sun Cheuk-Kwan , Cheng Yu-Shian , Shiue Yow-Ling , Hung Chao-Ming , Matsuoka Yutaka J. , Tseng Ping-Tao
Published: May 2023

Objective

Menopausal symptoms are common in midlife women and have broad impacts on their daily functioning and quality of life. Black cohosh extracts have been widely used to relieve menopausal symptoms. However, the comparative benefits of different combined black cohosh regimens remain inconclusive. The aim of the current updated meta-analysis is to address the comparative efficacies of different black cohosh regimens in improving menopausal symptoms.

Methods

Random-effect model pairwise meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials was conducted to investigate the treatment effect on menopausal symptoms by the black cohosh extract both alone or combined with other related active ingredients. The outcomes studied were changes in menopausal symptoms after treatment with black cohosh extracts in menopausal women.

Results

Twenty-two articles including information on 2,310 menopausal women were included in the analyses. Black cohosh extracts were associated with significant improvements in overall menopausal symptoms (Hedges’ g = 0.575, 95% CI = 0.283 to 0.867, P < 0.001), as well as in hot flashes (Hedges’ g = 0.315, 95% CIs = 0.107 to 0.524, P = 0.003), and somatic symptoms (Hedges’ g = 0.418, 95% CI = 0.165 to 0.670, P = 0.001), compared with placebo. However, black cohosh did not significantly improve anxiety (Hedges’ g = 0.194, 95% CI = −0.296 to 0.684, P = 0.438) or depressive symptoms (Hedges’ g = 0.406, 95% CI = −0.121 to 0.932, P = 0.131). The dropout rate for black cohosh products was similar to that for placebo (odds ratio = 0.911, 95% CI = 0.660 to 1.256, P = 0.568).

Conclusions

This study provides updated evidence regarding the potentially beneficial effects of black cohosh extracts for relieving menopausal symptoms in menopausal women.
Radiation Exposure from the Patient Perspective: An Argument for the Inclusion of Dose History
Authors: Hamilton Matthew , Kendall Edward
Published: May 2023

Patients in diagnostic imaging departments often ask about the risk of injury from x radiation. They are referred to wall posters or consent forms that declare (rightly) that the risk of harm from the proposed exam is very small and is far outweighed by the benefit. If a comparative risk value is provided, most likely it is based on a single exposure and derived from population estimates of cancer incidence and mortality. But is that information the most relevant for the patient? In a recent position statement, the AAPM recommends that only current exam risk should be considered, and that risk is independent of previous exams. We argue that if an exam carries risk of a negative event, the likelihood that a negative event occurred over all events increases with the number of exams. This cumulative risk, though still very small, must be a relevant consideration for health management.

Health Phys. 000(0):000-000; 2023
Changes in Anxiety and Depression Over the First Year of COVID-19 Pandemic in Philadelphia, PA
Authors: Burstyn Igor , Huynh Tran
Published: May 2023

Objective

We investigated the change in anxiety and depression in a general population cohort over the first year of COVID-19 pandemic in relation to work characteristics and mental health support.

Methods

We administered questionnaires to a convenience sample in Greater Philadelphia, in summer of 2020 and a year later. With more than 60% response rate, 461 people had repeated measurements.

Results

Anxiety declined but depression increased in the cohort after a year of COVID-19 pandemic. Perceived increase in support from family and trade unions, stable employment, and professional mental health support were protective. Depression scores worsened mostly in healthcare, higher education, and manufacturing industries.

Conclusions

We observed that while anxiety dissipated over the first year of COVID-19 pandemic, depression worsened, perhaps more so in some industries and where mental health support faltered over time.
Prognostic factors for acute vertebrobasilar artery occlusion-reperfusion: A multicenter retrospective cohort study
Authors: Huang Zhi-Xin , Lin Jianguo , Han Yunfei , Li Shizhan , Li Yongkun , Cai Qiankun , Dai Yingyi
Published: May 2023

Background:

This study aimed to analyze the long-term prognostic factors in acute vertebrobasilar artery occlusion (VBAO) patients treated with endovascular treatment (EVT).

Methods:

This study was performed using the acute posterior circulation ischemic stroke registry database from 21 stroke centers in 18 cities in China and retrospectively included consecutive patients aged 18 years or older with an acute, symptomatic, radiologically confirmed VBAO who were treated with EVT between December 2015 and December 2018. Favorable clinical outcomes were evaluated by machine-learning methods. A clinical signature was constructed in the training cohort using least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression and was validated in the validation cohort.

Results:

From 28 potential factors, 7 variables were independent prognostic factors and were included in the model: Modified Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction (M) (odds ratio [OR]: 2.900; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.566-5.370), age (A) (OR, 0.977; 95% CI: 0.961, 0.993), National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (N) (13-27 vs. ≤12: OR, 0.491; 95% CI: 0.275, 0.876; ≥28 vs. ≤12: OR, 0.148; 95% CI: 0.076, 0.289), atrial fibrillation (A) (OR, 2.383; 95% CI: 1.444, 3.933), Glasgow Coma Scale (G) (OR, 2.339; 95% CI: 1.383, 3.957), endovascular stent-retriever thrombectomy (E) (stent-retriever vs. aspiration: OR, 0.375; 95% CI: 0.156, 0.902), and estimated time of onset of the occlusion to groin puncture (Time) (OR, 0.950; 95% CI: 0.909, 0.993) (abbreviated as MANAGE Time). In the internal validation set, this model was well calibrated with good discrimination [C-index (95% CI) = 0.790 (0.755-0.826)]. A calculator based on the model can be found online (http://ody-wong.shinyapps.io/1yearFCO/).

Conclusion:

Our results indicate that optimizing for EVT, along with specific risk stratification, may improve long-term prognosis. However, a larger prospective study is needed to confirm the findings.
Safety of SGLT2i with regard to bone and mineral metabolism in patients with CKD
Authors: Kaze Arnaud D. , Patorno Elisabetta , Paik Julie M.
Published: May 2023

Purpose of review

Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) represent a relatively new class of oral glucose-lowering agents that reduce adverse cardiovascular and kidney outcomes among individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Emerging evidence suggests that SGLT2i may also affect bone and mineral metabolism. This review analyzes recent evidence on the safety of SGLT2i with respect to bone and mineral metabolism in people with CKD, and discusses potential underlying mechanisms and clinical implications.

Recent findings

Recent studies have documented the beneficial effects of SGLT2i on cardiovascular and renal outcomes among individuals with CKD. SGLT2i may alter renal tubular phosphate reabsorption and are associated with increased serum concentrations of phosphate, fibroblast growth factor-23 (FGF-23), parathyroid hormone (PTH), decreased 1,25-hydroxyvitamin D levels, as well as increased bone turnover. Clinical trials have not demonstrated an increased risk of bone fracture associated with SGLT2i use among patients with CKD with or without diabetes mellitus.

Although SGLT2i are associated with abnormalities of bone and mineral metabolism, they have not been linked to a higher risk of fracture among patients with CKD. More research is needed on the association between SGLT2i and fracture risk in this population.
Oral Viscous Budesonide in Children With Eosinophilic Esophagitis After Repaired Esophageal Atresia: A Clinical Trial
Authors: Tambucci Renato , Roversi Marco , Rea Francesca , Malamisura Monica , Angelino Giulia , Biondi Isabella , Simeoli Raffaele , Goffredo Bianca Maria , Francalanci Paola , Simonetti Alessandra , Livadiotti Susanna , Corsetti Tiziana , Dall’Oglio Luigi , Rossi Paolo , Pontrelli Giuseppe , De Angelis Paola
Published: May 2023

Objectives:

A high prevalence of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) has been reported in children with repaired esophageal atresia (EA). Topical steroids proved to be an effective and safe therapy in EoE, although not approved in pediatrics. We report the results of the first clinical trial of oral viscous budesonide (OVB) performed in children with EoE after repaired esophageal atresia (EoE-EA).

Methods:

This open-label, single-arm, phase 2 clinical trial with randomized pharmacokinetic sampling, was conducted at the Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital between September 2019 and June 2021. EoE-EA patients received an age-banded dose of OVB twice daily for 12 weeks and were endoscopically evaluated. The primary endpoint was the rate of patients achieving histological remission. Secondary endpoints included clinical and endoscopic benefit after treatment, and safety assessments.

Results:

Eight consecutive EA-EoE patients were enrolled (median age 9.1 years, interquartile range 5.5). Of these, 5 received 0.8 mg and 3 received 1.0 mg twice daily of OVB. Histological remission was obtained in all but 1 patient (87.5%). The clinical score showed significant improvement at the end of treatment in all patients. No endoscopic features of EoE were found after treatment. No treatment-emergent adverse event occurred.

Conclusion:

OVB is an effective, safe, and well-tolerated formulation of budesonide for use in pediatric patients with EoE-EA.
An atypical presentation of mpox transmitted between transgender males through oral sex
Authors: Wick Jenna M. , Pelliccione Alex , Lee-Rodriguez Christian , Tran H Nicole , McCleskey Patrick E. , Nichol Aran , Skarbinski Jacek
Published: May 2023

The current multi-country outbreak of mpox in 2022 is the first occurrence of widespread transmission in non-endemic countries. Prior cases in the United States involved exposure through foreign travel or direct contact with infected rodents. Reports of the current outbreak have predominately described spread through sexual encounters between cis-gender men who have sex with men. We report a unique case of mpox in which the transmission occurred through oral sex between two transgender men, with a short incubation period and progressive asynchronous emergence of lesions. Continued analysis of transmission routes and awareness will improve timely prevention, diagnosis and treatment.
Atypical Presentation Delays Treatment of Pediatric Testicular Torsion
Authors: Moran George W. , Wang Connie N. , Chung Rainjade , Movassaghi Miyad , Carpenter Christina P. , Finkelstein Julia B.
Published: May 2023

Objective

The aim of the study is to identify patient- and care-related factors associated with time to treatment for acute testicular torsion and the likelihood of testicular loss.

Methods

Data were retrospectively collected for patients 18 years and younger who had surgery for acute testicular torsion between April 1, 2005, and September 1, 2021. Atypical symptoms and history were defined as having abdominal, leg, or flank pain, dysuria, urinary frequency, local trauma, or not having testicular pain. The primary outcome was testicular loss. The primary process measure was time from emergency department (ED) triage to surgery.

Results

One hundred eleven patients were included in descriptive analysis. The rate of testicular loss was 35%. Forty-one percent of all patients reported atypical symptoms or history. Eighty-four patients had adequate data to calculate time from symptom onset to surgery and time from triage to surgery and were included in analyses of factors affecting risk of testicular loss. Sixty-eight patients had adequate data to evaluate all care-related time points and were included in analyses to determine factors affecting time from ED triage to surgery. On multivariable regression analyses, increased risk of testicular loss was associated with younger age and longer time from symptom onset to ED triage, while longer time from triage to surgery was associated with reporting atypical symptoms or history.

The most frequently reported atypical symptom was abdominal pain, in 26% of patients. These patients were more likely to have nausea and/or vomiting and abdominal tenderness but equally likely to report testicular pain and swelling and have testicular findings on examination.

Conclusions

Patients presenting to the ED with acute testicular torsion reporting atypical symptoms or history experience slower transit from arrival in the ED to operative management and may be at greater risk of testicular loss. Increased awareness of atypical presentations of pediatric acute testicular torsion may improve time to treatment.
Updates in Classification of Myelodysplastic Syndrome
Authors: Xu Mina L. , Hasserjian Robert P.
Published: May 2023

Myelodysplastic syndrome includes a broad range of myeloid neoplasms characterized by cytopenia and morphologic dysplasia. Recently, 2 new classification systems emerged to further define how these diseases are diagnosed and risk stratified. This review compares these models, provides detailed approaches, and reveals practical ways to move forward in clinical practice of myelodysplastic syndrome diagnosis.
Supportive Care for Patients With Myelodysplastic Syndromes
Authors: Stempel Jessica M. , Podoltsev Nikolai A. , Dosani Talib
Published: May 2023

Myelodysplastic syndromes are a heterogeneous group of bone marrow disorders characterized by ineffective hematopoiesis, progressive cytopenias, and an innate capability of progressing to acute myeloid leukemia. The most common causes of morbidity and mortality are complications related to myelodysplastic syndromes rather than progression to acute myeloid leukemia. Although supportive care measures are applicable to all patients with myelodysplastic syndromes, they are especially essential in patients with lower-risk disease who have a better prognosis compared with their higher-risk counterparts and require longer-term monitoring of disease and treatment-related complications. In this review, we will address the most frequent complications and supportive care interventions used in patients with myelodysplastic syndromes, including transfusion support, management of iron overload, antimicrobial prophylaxis, important considerations in the era of COVID-19 (coronavirus infectious disease 2019), role of routine immunizations, and palliative care in the myelodysplastic syndrome population.
THE CRITICAL ROLE OF THE HISTONE MODIFICATION ENZYME SETDB2 IN THE PATHOGENESIS OF ACUTE RESPIRATORY DISTRESS SYNDROME
Authors: Sonobe Shota , Kitabatake Masahiro , Hara Atsushi , Konda Makiko , Ouji-Sageshima Noriko , Terada-Ikeda Chiyoko , Furukawa Ryutaro , Imakita Natsuko , Oda Akihisa , Takeda Maiko , Takamura Shiki , Inoue Satoki , Kunkel Steven L. , Kawaguchi Masahiko , Ito Toshihiro
Published: May 2023

Introduction: Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a severe hypoxemic respiratory failure with a high in-hospital mortality. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying ARDS remain unclear. Recent findings have indicated that the onset of severe inflammatory diseases, such as sepsis, is regulated by epigenetic changes. We investigated the role of epigenetic changes in ARDS pathogenesis using mouse models and human samples. Methods: Acute respiratory distress syndrome was induced in a mouse model (C57BL/6 mice, myeloid cell or vascular endothelial cell [VEC]–specific SET domain bifurcated 2 [Setdb2]–deficient mice [Setdb2ffLyz2Cre+ or Setdb2ffTie2Cre+], and Cre− littermates) by intratracheal administration of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Analyses were performed at 6 and 72 h after LPS administration. Sera and lung autopsy specimens from ARDS patients were examined. Results: In the murine ARDS model, we observed high expression of the histone modification enzyme SET domain bifurcated 2 (Setdb2) in the lungs. In situ hybridization examination of the lungs revealed Setdb2 expression in macrophages and VECs. The histological score and albumin level of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid were significantly increased in Setdb2ffTie2Cre+ mice following LPS administration compared with Setdb2ffTie2Cre- mice, whereas there was no significant difference between the control and Setdb2ffLyz2Cre+ mice. Apoptosis of VECs was enhanced in Setdb2ffTie2Cre+ mice. Among the 84 apoptosis-related genes, the expression of TNF receptor superfamily member 10b (Tnfrsf10b) was significantly higher in Setdb2ffTie2Cre+ mice than in control mice. Acute respiratory distress syndrome patients' serum showed higher SETDB2 levels than those of healthy volunteers. SETDB2 levels were negatively correlated with the partial pressure of oxygen in arterial blood/fraction of inspiratory oxygen concentration ratio. Conclusion: Acute respiratory distress syndrome elevates Setdb2, apoptosis of VECs, and vascular permeability. Elevation of histone methyltransferase Setdb2 suggests the possibility to histone change and epigenetic modification. Thus, Setdb2 may be a novel therapeutic target for controlling the pathogenesis of ARDS.
Robotic Versus Laparoscopic Donor Nephrectomy: A Retrospective Bicentric Comparison of Learning Curves and Surgical Outcomes From 2 High-volume European Centers
Authors: Centonze Leonardo , Di Bella Caterina , Giacomoni Alessandro , Silvestre Cristina , De Carlis Riccardo , Frassoni Samuele , Franchin Barbara , Angrisani Marco , Tuci Francesco , Di Bello Marianna , Bagnardi Vincenzo , Lauterio Andrea , Furian Lucrezia , De Carlis Luciano
Published: May 2023

Background.

Although laparoscopic donor nephrectomy (LDN) represents the gold-standard technique for kidney living donation, robotic donor nephrectomy (RDN) settled as another appealing minimally invasive technique over the past decades. A comparison between LDN and RDN outcomes was performed.

Methods.

RDN and LDN outcomes were compared, focusing on operative time and perioperative risk factors affecting surgery duration. Learning curves for both techniques were compared through spline regression and cumulative sum models.

Results.

The study analyzed 512 procedures (154 RDN and 358 LDN procedures) performed between 2010 and 2021 in 2 different high-volume transplant centers. The RDN group presented a higher prevalence of arterial variations (36.2 versus 22.4%; P = 0.001) compared with the LDN cohort. No open conversions occurred; operative time (210 versus 195 min; P = 0.011) and warm ischemia time (WIT; 230 versus 180 s; P < 0.001) were longer in RDN. Postoperative complication rate was similar (8.4% versus 11.5%; P = 0.49); the RDN group showed shorter hospital stay (4 versus 5 d; P < 0.001). Spline regression models depicted a faster learning curve in the RDN group (P = 0.0002). Accordingly, cumulative sum analysis highlighted a turning point after about 50 procedures among the RDN cohort and after about 100 procedures among the LDN group.

Higher body mass index resulted as an independent risk factor for longer operative time for both techniques; multiple arteries significantly prolonged operative time in LDN, whereas RDN was longer in right kidney procurements; both procedures were equally shortened by growing surgical experience.

Conclusions.

RDN grants a faster learning curve and improves multiple vessel handling. Incidence of postoperative complications was low for both techniques.
Anti-tumour effect of Huangqin Decoction on colorectal cancer mice through microbial butyrate mediated PI3K/Akt pathway suppression
Authors: Zhu Jia-Jie , Liu Hai-Yan , Yang Liang-Jun , Fang Zheng , Fu Rui , Chen Jia-Bin , Liu Shan , Fei Bao-Ying
Published: May 2023

Introduction. Huangqin Decoction (HQD), a Chinese herbal formula, is widely used for various diseases, including colorectal cancer (CRC).

Hypothesis/Gap Statement. We proposed that microbial butyrate mediated PI3K/Akt pathway suppression might involve the anti-cancer effect of HQD.

Aim. This study aimed to evaluate the potential mechanism of HQD against CRC.

Methodology. An azoxymethane plus dextran sulphate sodium induced CRC mouse model was used, and the intestinal flora and faecal short-chain fatty acid changes were detected, respectively, after HQD administration with 16S rRNA sequencing and gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. Disease activity index, colon length and levels of inflammatory cytokines were measured to evaluate the effect of HQD on intestinal inflammation. Tumour size, number and histopathology were assessed to reflect the impact of HQD on tumour burden. Apoptosis and PI3K/Akt pathway activity were measured by TUNEL staining and Western-blotting. In vitro, the effects of sodium butyrate (NaB) on the viability of CRC cell lines were detected by the Cell-counting Kit-8. The apoptotic cells were determined by TUNEL staining. Cell migration and invasion were assessed by wound healing assay and Transwell assay, respectively. Western-blotting and immunofluorescent staining were used to test the activity of PI3K/Akt pathway.

Results. Animal study showed that HQD could improve the gut dysbiosis, increase the abundance of

Clostridium

and the level of faecal butyric acid. Then, we found that HQD could attenuate colitis, reduce tumour burden, promote cell apoptosis and suppress PI3K/Akt pathway activity in CRC mice. In vitro experiment revealed that NaB treatment could inhibit cell growth, migration and invasion in CRC cell lines. Additionally, NaB enhanced cellular apoptosis, and reduced phosphorylated PI3K and Akt expressions. Interestingly, addition of 740Y-P, an agonist of PI3K, reversed the NaB effects on CRC cells.

Conclusion. Overall, in this study, we revealed that HQD could induce apoptosis through microbial butyrate mediated PI3K/Akt inhibition and perform anti-CRC activity.
Quantitative microbiology with widefield microscopy: navigating optical artefacts for accurate interpretations
Authors: Hardo Georgeos , Li Ruizhe , Bakshi Somenath
Published: May 2023

Time-resolved live-cell imaging using widefield microscopy is instrumental in quantitative microbiology research. It allows us to track and measure the size, shape, and content of individual microbial cells over time. However, the small size of microbial cells poses a significant challenge in interpreting image data, as it approaches the dimensions of the microscope’s depth of field and experiences diffraction effects. As a result, 2D widefield images of microbial cells contain projected 3D information, blurred by the 3D point spread function. In this study, we employ computer simulations and targeted experiments to investigate the impact of diffraction and projection on our ability to quantify the size and content of microbial cells from 2D microscopic images. This study points to some new and often unconsidered artefacts resulting from the interplay of projection and diffraction effects, within the context of quantitative microbiology. These artefacts introduce substantial errors and biases in size and fluorescence quantification, and even single-molecule counting, making the elimination of these errors a complex task. Awareness of these artefacts is crucial for designing strategies to accurately interpret micrographs of microbes. To address this, we present new experimental designs and machine learning based analysis methods that account for these effects, resulting in accurate quantification of microbiological processes.
The selfish yeast plasmid exploits a SWI/SNF-type chromatin remodeling complex for hitchhiking on chromosomes and ensuring high-fidelity propagation
Authors: Ma Chien-Hui , Kumar Deepanshu , Ghosh Santanu K. , Iyer Vishwanath R. , Jayaram Makkuni
Published: May 2023

Extra-chromosomal selfish DNA elements can evade the risk of being lost at every generation by behaving as chromosome appendages, thereby ensuring high fidelity segregation and stable persistence in host cell populations. The yeast 2-micron plasmid and episomes of the mammalian gammaherpes and papilloma viruses that tether to chromosomes and segregate by hitchhiking on them exemplify this strategy. We document for the first time the utilization of a SWI/SNF-type chromatin remodeling complex as a conduit for chromosome association by a selfish element. One principal mechanism for chromosome tethering by the 2-micron plasmid is the bridging interaction of the plasmid partitioning proteins (Rep1 and Rep2) with the yeast RSC2 complex and the plasmid partitioning locusSTB. We substantiate this model by multiple lines of evidence derived from genomics, cell biology and interaction analyses. We describe a Rep-STBbypass system in which a plasmid engineered to non-covalently associate with the RSC complex mimics segregation by chromosome hitchhiking. Given the ubiquitous prevalence of SWI/SNF family chromatin remodeling complexes among eukaryotes, it is likely that the 2-micron plasmid paradigm or analogous ones will be encountered among other eukaryotic selfish elements.
The affective side of innovation ambidexterity: the influence of TMT entrepreneurial passion diversity
Authors: Chen Jiawen , Liu Linlin
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Although prior research highlights the organizational and cognitive challenges associated with achieving innovation ambidexterity, comparatively limited attention has been paid to the affective characteristics that may differentiate top management teams (TMTs) of firms. The authors build on emerging research and identify TMT entrepreneurial passion diversity as an affective characteristic with particular relevance to innovation ambidexterity.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on data collected from 195 small- and medium-sized enterprises in China, this study uses ordinary least squares regression models to test the hypotheses.

Findings

The results show that TMT passion intensity separation is negatively related to innovation ambidexterity, while TMT passion focus variety has an inverted U-shaped relationship with innovation ambidexterity. In addition, environmental dynamism weakens the effects of TMT passion intensity separation and strengthens the effects of passion focus variety.

Originality/value

This study pushes forward the research agenda on affective microfoundations of innovation ambidexterity. It also reveals the potential dark side of TMT entrepreneurial passion by explicitly delineating its effects on innovation management.
The behavioural evolution of the smart electric vehicle battery reverse supply chain under government supervision
Authors: Gao Yi-Ling , Gong Bengang , Liu Zhi , Tang Juan , Wang Chengfu
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Recycling and reuse of the electric vehicle (EV) batteries are ways to extend their limited lives. If batteries can be traced from production to recycling, it is beneficial for battery recycling and reuse. Using blockchain technology to build a smart EV battery reverse supply chain can solve the difficulties of lack of trust and data. The purpose of this study is to discuss the behavioural evolution of a smart EV battery reverse supply chain under government supervision.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopts evolutionary game theory to examine the decision-making behaviours of the government, EV manufacturers with recycled used batteries and third-party EV battery recyclers lacking professional recycling qualification.

Findings

On the smart reverse supply chain integrated by blockchain technology, a cooperative recycling strategy of the third-party EV battery recycler is the optimal choice when the government tends to actively regulate. The probability of the EV manufacturer choosing the blockchain adoption strategy exceeds (below) the threshold, and the government prefers negative (positive) supervision. According to numerical analysis, in the mature stage in the EV battery recycling industry, when the investment cost of applying blockchain is high, EV manufacturers' willingness to apply blockchain slows down, the government accelerates adopting a negative supervision strategy and third-party EV battery recyclers prefer cooperative recycling.

Practical implications

The results of this study provide opinions on the strength of government supervision and the conditions under which EV manufacturers and third-party EV battery recyclers should apply blockchain and cooperate. On the other hand, this study provides theoretical analysis for promoting the application of blockchain technology in smart reverse supply chain.

Originality/value

Compared with previous research, this study reveals the relevance of government supervision, blockchain application and cooperation strategy in smart EV battery reverse supply chain. In the initial stage, even if the subsidy (subsidy reduction rate) and penalty are high and the penalty reduction rate is low, the EV manufacturer should rather give up the application of blockchain technology. In the middle stage in the EV battery recycling industry, the government can set a lower subsidy (subsidy reduction rate) combined with a penalty or a higher penalty (penalty reduction rate) combined with a subsidy to supervise it. The third-party EV battery recycler is advised to cooperate with the EV manufacturer when the subsidy is low or the penalty is high.
The effects of cognitive dissonance and self-efficacy on short video discontinuous usage intention
Authors: Chen Ting , Li Xia , Duan Yaoqing
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The discontinuous usage behavior of short video social media presents an ongoing challenge to platform development. The purpose of this study is to investigate the antecedents of intentions to short media discontinuous usage.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopts a Cognition–Affection–Conation (CAC) framework to analyze short video social media discontinuous intention on the basis of cognitive dissonance theory (CDT) and self-efficacy theory. The empirical evaluation of the research model was conducted using SmartPLS 2.0 and was based on questionnaire data obtained from participants in China.

Findings

The results show information overload and user addiction have a significant positive association with cognitive dissonance, which is, in turn, found to significantly impact discontinuous usage intention. Self-efficacy moderates the relationships between information overload, user addiction, cognitive dissonance and discontinuous usage.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the understanding of the factors that influence short video discontinuous usage intention and it achieves this by engaging from a CDT perspective and by applying Self-Efficacy Theory. Theoretical implications for future short video platform research, as well as practical suggestions for short video platform operators and users, are also discussed.
Consumer meat preference and willingness to pay for local organic meat in Thailand: a case study of Taphao Thong-Kasetsart chicken
Authors: Thuannadee Angsuthon , Noosuwan Chutarat
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This study investigated consumers’ willingness to pay (WTP) for a local, organic chicken breed “Taphao Thong-Kasetsart” and the drivers that shape consumers’ WTP across different meat preferences in Thailand.

Design/methodology/approach

Face-to-face interviewing was used to collect data at food-service outlets in Bangkok and Nakhon Pathom provinces, Thailand. Data analysis used the double-bounded dichotomous choice model across different consumers’ meat preferences for preferred chicken and non-preferred chicken consumers.

Findings

The results showed that there were different WTP amounts for local organic chicken across consumers’ meat preferences, with a higher WTP among non-preferred chicken consumers. This indicated that local organic chicken may attract more consumers in the alternative market. Consumers’ values and attitudes to taste drove chicken-preferred consumers to pay a premium for local organic chicken; health concerns mattered for non-preferred chicken consumers. These findings should provide useful information for food marketing campaigns based on consumers’ preferences.

Originality/value

The study contributed to understanding consumer heterogeneous preferences toward WTP for local organic chicken. The findings indicated that analyzing WTP across different meat preferences highlighted more effective marketing strategies to achieve the premium that consumers would pay. These strategies could help farmers to enlarge their local organic market share, leading to increased revenue and farmers’ well-being.
Risk translation: how cryptocurrency impacts company risk, beta and returns
Authors: Field Jack , Inci A. Can
Published: May 2023

Purpose

As cryptocurrencies continue to gain viability as an asset class, institutional investors and publicly traded firms have started taking investment positions in digital currencies. What firms may not be considering, however, is the effect these assets may have on their risk profiles. This study aims to (1) measure the effect of cryptocurrencies on the risk and return characteristics of publicly traded companies; (2) decipher the motives behind holding cryptocurrencies as an asset class; and (3) determine whether one reason for holding is more effective than another. To conduct this research, the four largest publicly traded holders of cryptocurrency as well as four of the most prominent cryptocurrencies are explored.

Design/methodology/approach

The cross-sectional analysis approach has been used to analyze the daily returns, volatility, betas and Sharpe Ratios of firms during periods without cryptocurrency strategies and during periods with cryptocurrency strategies.

Findings

The impact of the cryptocurrency asset class on common stock performance and corporate disclosures are documented. The importance of risk disclosures on cryptocurrency holdings is emphasized: Firms must better inform their stakeholders through comprehensive disclosures in financial statements. Firms utilize cryptocurrencies for various reasons such as treasury management tools or as direct sources of income. Consequently, the impact on returns and risks varies substantially.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is one of the first studies on cryptocurrency investments in the treasury departments of publicly traded companies. The study contributes to the literature by extracting relevant information regarding company risk reporting and cryptocurrency risk at firms. The conclusions also promote firm transparency with detailed reporting of cryptocurrency holding risks.