bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dissecting Mutational Allosteric Effects in Alkaline Phosphatases Associated with Different Hypophosphatasia Phenotypes: An Integrative Computational Investigation
Authors: Xiao Fei , Zhou Ziyun , Song Xingyu , Gan Mi , Long Jie , Verkhivker Gennady M , Hu Guang
Published: January 2022

Hypophosphatasia (HPP) is a rare inherited disorder characterized by defective bone mineralization, is highly variable in its clinical phenotype. The disease occurs due to various loss-of-function mutations in ALPL, the gene encoding tissue-nonspecific alkaline phosphatase (TNSALP). In this work, a data-driven and biophysics-based approach for large-scale analysis of ALPL mutations – from nonpathogenic to severe HPPs is proposed. Allosteric molecular signatures of ALPL mutations were determined using an integrated pipeline of synergistic approaches including sequence and energetic-based analysis, structural topology network modeling and elastic network models. Statistical analysis of molecular features computed for the ALPL mutations showed a significant difference between the control and mild and severe HPP phenotypes, and the developed machine learning model suggested that the topological network parameters could serve as is a robust indicator for severe mutations. Molecular dynamics simulations coupled with protein structure network was employed to analyze the effect of single-residue variation on conformational dynamics of TNSALP dimers, and we found that severe disease-associated mutations have a significantly greater effect on allosteric communications. The results of this study suggested that ALPL mutations associated with mild and severe HPPs tend to have different effects on protein stability on local scale and long-range communications caused by network rewiring. By linking disease phenotypes with allosteric molecular signatures, the proposed integrative computational approach elucidates the complex sequence-structure-allostery relationships of ALPL mutations and dissects the role of allosteric effects in the pathogenesis of HPPs.

Author Summary

The understanding of mutational genotype- disease phenotype relationship is a fundamental step for enabling precision medicine. It remains a challenging task to assess the molecular principle of the genotype- phenotype relationship. By focusing on Hypophosphatasia, a rare inherited disorder, as an example, we performed comprehensive analysis of single-amino-acid mutations in the encoded protein of Tissue Nonspecific Alkaline Phosphatase associated in terms of their sequence, structure, and dynamics properties. We further developed a machine learning -based method to classify different disease phenotypes, and the interpretability of the classification model was addressed by the structural-functional analysis of network topological important mutations. Our results highlighted the allosteric propensity of severe mutations, and show the potential allosteric principle of genotype- phenotype relationship.
Defects in DNA double-strand break repair re-sensitise antibiotic-resistant Escherichia coli to multiple bactericidal antibiotics
Authors: Revitt-Mills Sarah A. , Wright Elizabeth K. , Vereker Madaline , O’Flaherty Callum , McPherson Fairley , Dawson Catherine , van Oijen Antoine M. , Robinson Andrew
Published: January 2022

Antibiotic resistance is becoming increasingly prevalent amongst bacterial pathogens and there is an urgent need to develop new types of antibiotics with novel modes of action. One promising strategy is to develop resistance-breaker compounds, which inhibit resistance mechanisms and thus re-sensitise bacteria to existing antibiotics. In the current study, we identify bacterial DNA double-strand break repair as a promising target for the development of resistance-breaking co-therapies. We examined genetic variants of Escherichia coli that combined antibiotic-resistance determinants with DNA repair defects. We observed that defects in the double-strand break repair pathway led to significant re-sensitisation towards five bactericidal antibiotics representing different functional classes. Effects ranged from partial to full re-sensitisation. For ciprofloxacin and nitrofurantoin, sensitisation manifested as a reduction in the minimum inhibitory concentration. For kanamycin and trimethoprim, sensitivity manifested through increased rates of killing at high antibiotic concentrations. For ampicillin, repair defects dramatically reduced antibiotic tolerance. Ciprofloxacin, nitrofurantoin, and trimethoprim induce the pro-mutagenic SOS response. Disruption of double-strand break repair strongly dampened the induction of SOS by these antibiotics. Our findings suggest that if break-repair inhibitors can be developed they could re-sensitise antibiotic-resistant bacteria to multiple classes of existing antibiotics and may supress the development of de novo antibiotic-resistance mutations.
Derivation of lump solutions to a variety of Boussinesq equations with distinct dimensions
Authors: Wazwaz Abdul-Majid
Published: January 2022

Purpose

This study aims to introduce a variety of integrable Boussinesq equations with distinct dimensions.

Design/methodology/approach

The author formally uses the simplified Hirota’s method and lump schemes for exploring lump solutions, which are rationally localized in all directions in space.

Findings

The author confirms the lump solutions for every model illustrated by some graphical representations.

Research limitations/implications

The author examines the features of the obtained lumps solutions.

Practical implications

The author presents a variety of lump solutions via using a variety of numerical values of the included parameters.

Social implications

This study formally furnishes useful algorithms for using symbolic computation with Maple for the determination of lump solutions.

Originality/value

This paper introduces an original work with newly useful findings of lump solutions.
Determining public’s attitude toward medical tourism development: a scale proposal
Authors: Sağ Ilhan , Zengul Ferhat Devrim , Avcı Keziban
Published: January 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the public’s attitude toward medical tourism activities by developing a measurement instrument in Turkey, an emerging medical tourism destination.

Design/methodology/approach

During the development phase of the scale, 24 question pools were created. After the pilot study, data from a 20-question survey were collected from a study group consisting of Turkish citizens who received services from hospitals in the city of Ankara. Data were collected through convenience sampling of 221 study participants as they were walking in the Square of Kızılay, one of the most important centers and junction points in Turkey, between November 25, 2017, and December 27, 2017.

Findings

The content validity of the scale was assessed by expert opinion. The scale reliability is high with Cronbach’s α (0.908). A factor analysis was performed to assess the factor structure of the scale. The Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin measure of sampling adequacy (0.895) and Bartlett’s test (χ2 = 2,020.967; p = 0.001) were applied to determine the conformity of the scale of factor analysis. Exploratory factor analysis with Varimax rotation was performed to determine the factor structure of the scale. The 20 questions loaded under three factors: “contribution to the country,” “anxiety in getting services” and “service justice”. These factors explained approximately 55% of the total variance. Confirmatory factor analysis was performed with goodness-of-fit index (0.877), Bentler comparative fit index (0.909) and root mean square error of approximation index (0.069) to determine the validity of the factor structure, and the results indicated that the three-factor model is an acceptable level. All the results show that this new scale is valid and reliable in measuring the public’s attitude toward the development of medical tourism in Turkey.

Originality/value

The public’s attitudes on the medical tourism scale show that, as a measurement tool, it can be used validly and reliably in determining the public’s attitudes toward medical tourism.
Tribological behaviors of HfC coating prepared on 45 steel via double glow plasma surface metallurgy technique
Authors: Zang Kai , Chen Wenxin , Liang Wenping , Miao Qiang , Yao Wei , Li Jingli , Ma Yaoyao
Published: January 2022

Purpose

45 steel is a common material for the manufacture of various components such as shafts or gears. However, its poor surface properties often limit its applications. The purpose of this paper is to find a way to enhance the surface performance of 45 steel, which is expected to improve the wear resistance of 45 steel.

Design/methodology/approach

Double glow plasma surface metallurgy technique was used to prepare hafnium carbide (HfC) coatings on the surface of the 45 steel with two preparation process; one is to diffuse two elements together, while the other is to diffuse step by step. The scanning electronic microscopy and the X-ray diffraction were used to analyze the morphology and phase of the HfC coatings. And then the wear tests were carried out for this coating.

Findings

Coating diffused step by step shows better performance; it has a 15-µm alloyed layer which is uniform and dense and its hardness can reach up to 1326.5 Vickers-hardness (HV). While the coating fabricated by diffusing elements together owns a 10-µm alloyed layer and its hardness is 1204.1 HV. According to the wear test results, both coatings have a protective effect on the substrate and the coating prepared by step-by-step diffusion process has less wear volume, indicating that it possesses better friction reduction.

Originality/value

A new method which diffuses elements together was successfully used to prepare compound HfC coating, which can reduce the cost of coating preparation and improve the efficiency of coating preparation.
Development of an industry 4.0 transformability index for manufacturing systems
Authors: Kumar Shailendra , Asjad Mohammad , James Ajith Tom , Suhaib Mohd
Published: January 2022

Purpose

Evaluation of the extent of transformability of an existing system into an industry 4.0 (I4.0) compatible system is indispensable for both the technical and economic planning for implementing I4.0. This paper aims to propose a procedure to evaluate the transformability of an existing manufacturing system into an I4.0 system.

Design/methodology/approach

Six significant components of a manufacturing system and their five levels of modifications essential for the decision of transformation are identified. Based on expert opinion on facilitation and the impact of the transformation of one component on the transformation of others, a graph theory-based procedure for estimation of transformability index (TI) along with its relative and threshold values is proposed.

Findings

The paper introduced the concept of transformability into manufacturing systems. It proposed a simple procedure for calculating the ideal, relative and threshold value for TI to assess the suitability of the up-gradation of any manufacturing system into the I4.0 system.

Research limitations/implications

Though the proposed procedure is based on six system components and their five levels of facilitation, it is quite versatile and able to integrate new components and different facilitation levels according to system requirements for their impact analysis in the transformation process. It can be extended to other domains like services and health care. Further, it can be used to estimate and establish the transformability criteria of a factory/service unit/industry from its current state to any regime.

Practical implications

The proposed method for deducing the TI, relative transformability index (RTI) and their threshold values would be a handy tool for decision-makers to assess the upgrading suitability of the entire manufacturing system and its component for use in the new regime or scrapping. It would provide mathematical and scientific support to the transformability decisions by assessing the influence of transforming one component to others and the system. This study would pave the way for further explorations in the domain of transformability.

Originality/value

In the light of available literature and best of the author’s knowledge, this study is the first of its kind that has applied the concept of transformability of existing manufacturing systems toward I4.0 compatible systems and proposed a procedure to estimate TI, RTI and their threshold values.
The art of forming a partnership in an entrepreneurial world: the Brazilian case
Authors: Oliveira Junior Antonio Benedito de , De Oliveira Mauro Jose
Published: January 2022

Purpose

This study aims to design and empirically test a model where autonomy affects partnership (PT) and entrepreneurial orientation (EO), which in turn improves competitive aggressiveness (CA), market orientation (MO) and PT; to verify the impact of CA on MO and PT; and to determine to what extent MO mediates the EO–PT relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used a quantitative approach to test 101 Brazilian firms from different sectors, analyzed by structural equation modeling using the partial least squares–structural equation modeling.

Findings

Results show that autonomy improves EO and PT. EO positively affects CA, MO and PT. CA impacts MO positively, and MO mediates the EO–PT relationship, although it reduces the possibility of PT.

Research limitations/implications

Although 101 firms could be a “small sample,” the authors validated it according to Hair et al. (2009) and Chin et al. (2003). Their first contribution is to extend the works relating to EO and PT by showing the positive effects of autonomy on EO and PT. Second, to show the mediating effect of MO on the EO–PT relationship. Finally, they draw attention to how firms with EO improve CA, MO and PT; and CA boost MO. Thus, to generalize EO research internationally, like in the emergent markets.

Originality/value

Although EO has attracted significant attention to entrepreneurship research, it is not clear how autonomy impacts a firm's EO and PT, considering the mediating effect of MO on the EO–PT relationship; if EO influences CA and MO, and the impact of CA on MO and PT.
Design morphology complexity and conceptual building project cost forecasting
Authors: Kantianis Dimitrios D.
Published: January 2022

Purpose

This research aims to develop conceptual phase building project cost forecasting models by exploring the relationship of existing plan shape complexity indices and general design morphology parameters with total construction cost.

Design/methodology/approach

Plan shape indices proposed to date by the literature for measuring building design complexity are critically reviewed. Building morphology is also dictated by town planning restrictions such as plot coverage ratio or number of storeys. This study analyses historical data collected from 49 residential building projects to develop multiple linear regression (MLR) and artificial neural network (ANN) models for forecasting construction cost. Existing plan shape coefficients are calculated to evaluate the geometrical complexity of sampled projects. Ten regression-based cost estimating equations are totally derived from stepwise backward and forward methods, and their predictive accuracy is contrasted: to performance levels reported in past studies and to ANN models developed in this research with multilayer perceptron architecture.

Findings

Analysis of plan shape indices revealed that 85.7% of examined past projects possess a high degree of design complexity, hence resulting in expensive initial decisions. This highlights the need for more effective early design stage decision-making by developing new building economic tools. The most accurate regression model, with a mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) of 19.2%, predicts the log of total cost from wall to floor index and total building envelope surface. Other explanatory variables resulting in MAPE values in the order of 20%–22% are total volume, volume above ground level, gross floor area below ground level, gross floor area per storey and total number of storeys. The overall MAPE of regression-based equations is 24.3% whilst ANN models are slightly more accurate with MAPE scores of 21.8% and 21.6% for one hidden and two hidden layers, respectively. The most accurate forecasting model in the research is the ANN with two hidden layers and the sigmoid activation function which predicts total building cost from total building volume (19.1%).

Originality/value

This paper introduces MLR-based and ANN-based conceptual construction cost forecasting models which are founded solely on building morphology design parameters and compare favourably with previous studies with an average predictive accuracy less than 25%. This paper is expected to be beneficial to both practitioners and academics in the built environment towards more effective cost planning of building projects. The methodology suggested can further be implemented in other countries provided that accurate and relevant data from historical projects are used.
Women board members’ impact on ESG disclosure with environment and social dimensions: evidence from the European banking sector
Authors: Gurol Burcu , Lagasio Valentina
Published: January 2022

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the relationship between banks’ board structure and sustainability performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The empirical quantitative paper covers a sample of 35 European banks that are listed at the EUROSTOXX 600. Regression analysis techniques were used in the analyses.

Findings

Results indicate that board size, women ratio and independent directors ratio on board are positively and significantly related to environmental social governance (ESG), E and S disclosure scores. Also, we find that ESG disclosure is related to bank profitability.

Practical implications

Findings have implications for both policymakers and practitioners (bankers and investors). Large bank boards, which have women and independent members, could perform better in terms of ESG disclosure. The results also show that large banks and banks with high borrowing care more about sustainability. For banks to reach resources, they should perform well in terms of sustainability disclosure to their stakeholders.

Social implications

Banks should observe academic findings on corporate governance (CG) practices, which lead to a better ESG disclosure to structure their CG to improve at the best their disclosure policies: they should prefer larger boards with a high level of women and independence. In addition, we attach importance to the ESG performance of the banking sector due to its fund transfer functions. Banks transfer the deposits they collect to those in need of funds as loans. For this reason, it is important to which sector and which business they give credit. The importance of banks on ESG and their adoption of sustainability dimensions also affect their credit decisions.

Originality/value

This study examines the relationship between banks’ board structure variables and their effect on ESG, E and S scores separately. This study thinks that the G score can be a handicap for ESG-CG relations. Because chosen CG variables (women ratio, independent ratio, board size) affect G scores positively and can reason for positive ESG-CG relation. The environmental and social impact of women ratio, independent ratio and board size can be seen in this study.
Comparison of nodal and edge basis functions for the forward modelling of three‐dimensional frequency‐domain wire source electromagnetic data using a potentials formulation
Authors: Zhang Ming , Farquharson Colin G. , Lin Tingting
Published: January 2022

An investigation of forward modelling 3‐D wire source electromagnetic data in the frequency domain using nodal and edge finite‐element basis functions is presented. The equations solved are those for the coupled secondary vector–scalar potentials (i.e. magnetic vector potential A and electric scalar potential φ), which give rise to a less ill‐conditioned system of equations to be solved. The effectiveness of these two methods is validated with two 3‐D examples, i.e. multi‐blocks models and topography models, which considered the computation of the A–φ potentials and the electromagnetic fields due to a grounded electric line source by inter‐comparing the numerical solutions computed from each method and by comparing them against the equivalent solutions for the same model computed using other methods. Based on the multiple‐blocks models, we compare the relative contributions of the inductive and galvanic parts to the E‐field for different frequencies. Results show that for the type of source considered in this paper, the galvanic parts dominate for a relatively low frequency (10 Hz), but that for a relatively high frequency (10 kHz), the inductive parts also contribute. The extent to which the Coulomb gauge condition is satisfied when using nodal basis functions for A is also investigated, with results showing that the divergence of the numerically calculated A is almost zero as desired. Based on the topography models, we analyse the electromagnetic response characteristics at different survey planes, with results of this investigation indicating that the electromagnetic responses measured over a plane close to the target will carry more accurate geometry information (such as position, shape and size) of the target, which is expected, and less distortion due to topography compared to those measured at the earth's surface. This suggests that when conducting electromagnetic prospecting in an area with complex topography, it is possible to obtain better anomaly detection affected less by topography if the electromagnetic measurement is carried out underground (such as in a borehole).
Reordering the machinery of participation with young people
Authors: Cowan Hannah , Kühlbrandt Charlotte , Riazuddin Hana
Published: January 2022

In this article, we reflect on our ongoing work that attempts to redistribute the agenda‐setting powers of researchers, research funders and the complex of private and public partnerships in the biomedical sciences. Despite calls for diversification, the current landscape is dominated by a traditional medical habitus that prioritises discovery science. This has moral and political consequences. Simultaneously, we have seen a slow rise in top–down infrastructures of public participation in medical science. While we are critical of the resulting machinery of participation, we believe in its premise that knowledge and expertise are everywhere. In our research project—called Utopia Now!—we have been seeking to involve young people in deciding the future of biomedical research. However, this project is itself premised on a number of our own complicities with the power held by universities and research infrastructures. Here, we explore three preliminary tactics through which we attempt to make these complicities politically productive, taking into account the limitations of working as early career researchers. We find that our mediation between young people and researchers across disciplines is not only integral for re‐politicising medical research, but also changes our understanding of knowledge production as a process of reordering, sorting and sharing.
'Just have some IVF!': A longitudinal ethnographic study of couples' experiences of seeking fertility treatment
Authors: Mounce Ginny , Allan Helen T , Carey Nicola
Published: January 2022

We present findings from a longitudinal ethnographic study of infertile couples seeking treatment following initial GP referral to specialist fertility services. Repeated observations and interviews were undertaken with the same 14 heterosexual participants over an 18‐month period. Heterosexual, non‐donor couples comprise the majority of fertility clinic patients; however, research interest in this group has dwindled over time as IVF cycles have increased. In the United Kingdom, IVF is presented as a logical response to involuntary childlessness, and as an entirely predictable, and linear, course of action. The market is well‐developed and often patients' first experience of privatised health care in the NHS. Our couples were challenged by this, and while they felt expected to move on to IVF, some wished to explore other options. While IVF is ubiquitous, the discomfort and challenge around fertility treatments remain; experiences are prolonged and characterised by recursive narratives and expressions of disequilibrium, which are rarely acknowledged and reflected in ongoing clinic‐patient interactions. Our findings develop understanding of the process of ‘mazing’ (Image ‐ The Journal of Nursing Scholarship, 1989, 21, 220), the pursuit of parenthood, by showing that the routine and normative status of IVF, at least in the current health care context, is at odds with the lived experiences of individuals.
The Art of Data Privacy
Authors: Bowen Claire McKay
Published: January 2022

Statistics are vital for understanding society, but they can pose a risk to the privacy of individuals who contribute their data. Claire McKay Bowen illustrates some of the methods used to minimise that risk – with the aid of a famous artwork
Blurring the Lines Journalism and Epidemiology in the Time of Corona
Authors: Alba Sandra
Published: January 2022

Journalism has borrowed tools and expertise from epidemiology in reporting on Covid-19. Epidemiologists should borrow from journalists too, says Sandra Alba
Questions Answered: Sam Buttrey
Authors: Buttrey Sam
Published: January 2022

Statistician, Jeopardy! winner, and social media's new favourite Steve Martin lookalike
Effect of oral simethicone on the quality of colonoscopy: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Cao Rong Rong , Wang Le , Gao Cong , Pan Jia Hui , Yoshida Eric M. , Li Hong Yu , Qi Xing Shun
Published: January 2022

Objective

In this systematic review and meta‐analysis, we aimed to investigate the effect of oral simethicone (SIM), an antifoaming agent, on the quality of colonoscopy in terms of bowel preparation quality, adenoma or polyp detection rate (ADR/PDR) and cecal intubation rate (CIR).

Methods

All randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on the use of SIM during bowel preparation for colonoscopy published up to 17 March 2021 were identified from the PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane Library databases. Bowel preparation quality, ADR/PDR/CIR, cecal intubation time (CIT), withdrawal time (WT), patients' tolerability, acceptability and volume of foam and bubbles were compared between the SIM and non‐SIM groups.

Results

Thirty‐eight RCTs with 10 505 patients were included. Oral SIM significantly increased the rate of total Boston bowel preparation scale (BBPS) score ≥6 (risk ratio [RR]  1.13, P < 0.0001), acceptability (RR  1.15, P = 0.01) and the rate of no or minimal foam and bubbles (RR  1.28, P < 0.00001) and decreased abdominal distension (RR  0.64, P < 0.0001). However, it had no significant impact on overall ADR, overall PDR, CIR, CIT or WT. The rate of total BBPS score ≥6 remained significantly higher in the SIM group when a single‐dose laxative regimen or a SIM dosage of ≥320 mg was employed; and ADR, PDR and CIR were significantly increased in the SIM group among colonoscopy clinicians who achieved an ADR <31%, PDR <45% and CIR <96%, respectively.

Conclusions

Oral SIM can improve bowel preparation quality, especially in patients receiving a SIM dosage of ≥320 mg or a single‐dose laxative regimen. SIM may be preferred by junior colonoscopy physicians/trainees with a lower ADR/PDR or CIR.
CircRNA PRH1‐PRR4 stimulates RAB3D to regulate the malignant progression of NSCLC by sponging miR‐877‐5p
Authors: Ma Jun , Li Quanxing , Li Yuling
Published: January 2022

Background

Previous reports have confirmed the importance of circular RNA (circRNA) in the malignant progression of non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, the role of circRNA PRH1‐PRR4 readthrough (circPRH1‐PRR4) in NSCLC progression was unclear. This study was designed to reveal the mechanism behind circPRH1‐PRR4 regulating NSCLC progression.

Methods

Quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction and western blot were employed to detect the expression of circPRH1‐PRR4, microRNA‐877‐5p (miR‐877‐5p), the member RAS oncogene family (RAB3D), and other indicated protein markers. The positive expression rate of RAB3D was detected by immunohistochemistry assay. Cell proliferation was investigated by cell colony formation and 5‐ethynyl‐2′‐deoxyuridine assays. Flow cytometry was employed to quantify apoptotic cells. Wound‐healing and transwell invasion assays were used to evaluate cell metastasis. The interaction among circPRH1‐PRR4, miR‐877‐5p, and RAB3D was identified by dual‐luciferase reporter assay. In vivo assay was implemented to demonstrate the effect of circPRH1‐PRR4 on tumor formation.

Results

As compared with controls, NSCLC tissues and cells displayed high expression of circPRH1‐PRR4 and RAB3D, and low expression of miR‐877‐5p. Reduced expression of circPRH1‐PRR4 resulted in inhibition of cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, but promotion of cell apoptosis in vitro. In support, circPRH1‐PRR4 silencing inhibited tumor formation in vivo. Knockdown of miR‐877‐5p, a target miRNA of circPRH1‐PRR4, relieved circPRH1‐PRR4 absence‐mediated action. Additionally, RAB3D was identified as a target mRNA of miR‐877‐5p. Importantly, circPRH1‐PRR4 regulated RAB3D expression by miR‐877‐5p.

Conclusion

CircPRH1‐PRR4 knockdown impeded NSCLC cell malignancy by the miR‐877‐5p/RAB3D pathway, providing a possible circRNA‐targeted therapy for NSCLC.
Histone deacetylase 1 in patients with alopecia areata and acne vulgaris: An epigenetic alteration
Authors: Abdelkader Heba Ahmed , Amin Iman , Rashed Laila Ahmed , Samir Maha , Ezzat Marwa
Published: January 2022

Background

Histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1) belongs to class I histone deacetylases, which are zinc‐dependent enzymes that remove the acetyl group from histones and other proteins providing epigenetic regulation of gene expression. It plays an important role in the hair follicle and epidermal homeostasis in addition to its immunomodulatory roles. Alopecia areata (AA) and acne vulgaris are common skin diseases in which epigenetic factors have been proposed. However, studies of epigenetic modifications in both diseases are quite limited.

Objective

This study aimed at elucidation of HDAC1 deregulation in AA and acne vulgaris.

Methods

A case‐control study was conducted on 76 participants: 25 patients with patchy alopecia areata, 26 patients with acne vulgaris and 25 healthy controls. Blood samples were collected for the measurement of HDAC1 level by ELISA.

Results

A significant difference in the serum level of HDAC1 was found between the studied groups being highest in the AA group (P = 0.0001). It was significantly higher in the AA group than the acne vulgaris group (P = 0.0001).

Conclusion

HDAC1 appears to be deregulated in patients with AA and acne vulgaris. This may suggest a potential therapeutic opportunity for HDAC inhibitors for the treatment of such diseases.
Population structure and dynamics, breeding activity and phenology of the blue‐sided treefrog (Agalychnis annae)
Authors: Arguedas Viviana , Barquero Marco D. , Mora José Manuel
Published: January 2022

Agalychnis annae is a species endemic to Costa Rica and Panama with populations shrinking or disappearing from several locations. We studied the reproduction of a relict population of A. annae in a 1,300 m2 natural pond in Costa Rica during 2007–2008. We marked adults with a visible implant alphanumeric tag injected in the thigh. We measured reproductive effort considering calling males per night and per hour, number of pairs in amplexus, and number of egg masses. We summed 366 individual observations: 57% juveniles, 39% adult males, and 4% adult females. Average snout–vent length was 29 mm (juveniles), 63 mm (males), and 78 mm (females). Sex ratio (males:females) was 4.85:1, while operational sex ratio varied between one and six males per female when both sexes were present at the pond. Maximum estimated census population size varied between 27 and 59 individuals, with a Ne = 43.11. Calling activity occurred mostly from 1800–2000 h, and we counted 65 egg masses. Number of adults and calling males were positively correlated with accumulated rainfall and average temperature. Number of egg masses was positively correlated with the number of adults, accumulated rainfall, and average temperature. The causes of the long‐term population decline must be identified to conserve A. annae and similar species, as well as establishing long‐term monitoring programs. Required conservation actions include translocation individuals from risky areas, creation of artificial ponds to increase ecological connectivity, elimination of introduced species, particularly in small habitat remnants, and establishment of ex situ conservation programs.

Abstract in Spanish is available with online material.
Comparative study of 2‐year outcomes for Hydrus or iStent inject microinvasive glaucoma surgery implants with cataract surgery
Authors: Holmes David P. , Clement Colin I. , Nguyen Vuong , Healey Paul R. , Lim Ridia , White Andrew , Yuen Joshua , Lawlor Mitchell
Published: January 2022

Background

To compare real‐world 24‐month outcomes of phacoemulsification combined with either iStent inject or Hydrus Microstent.

Methods

Analysis of data from the Fight Glaucoma Blindness (FGB) international registry. Anonymized data from 344 eyes with mild‐to‐moderate open‐angle glaucoma, normal‐tension glaucoma or ocular hypertension that underwent phacoemulsification combined with either iStent inject (224) or Hydrus Microstent (120) were included. Data were adjusted for baseline characteristics using linear regression and propensity score matching. The primary endpoint was a comparison of mean intraocular pressure (IOP) at 24 months.

Results

At 24 months, there was no significant difference in IOP reduction between the two groups, consistent across all analyses. The matched cohort showed iStent inject achieved 3.1 mmHg reduction and Hydrus a 2.3 mmHg reduction (p = 0.530) and a mean medication reduction of 1.0 for iStent inject versus 0.5 for Hydrus (p = 0.081). 5.4% of eyes in the iStent inject group and 7.5% of eyes in the Hydrus group required subsequent procedures to improve IOP control within 24 months. Complications were rare with no significant differences between the groups.

Conclusions

Twenty‐four‐month outcomes showed sustained IOP reduction with a good safety profile for both groups. There was no significant difference in IOP outcomes between the groups. There may be a small additional reduction in glaucoma medication usage following cataract surgery with iStent inject compared to Hydrus.
Effect of antibiotic prophylaxis in dental implant surgery: A multicenter placebo‐controlled double‐blinded randomized clinical trial
Authors: Momand Palwasha , Becktor Jonas P. , Naimi‐Akbar Aron , Tobin Gunnar , Götrick Bengt
Published: January 2022

Background

The growing resistance of bacteria to antimicrobial medicines is a global issue and a direct threat to human health. Despite this, antibiotic prophylaxis is often still routinely used in dental implant surgery to prevent bacterial infection and early implant failure, despite unclear benefits. There is a lack of sufficient evidence to formulate clear clinical guidelines and therefore there is a need for well‐designed, large‐scale randomized controlled trials to determine the effect of antibiotic prophylaxis.

Purpose

To compare the effect of a presurgical antibiotic regimen with an identical placebo regimen in healthy or relatively healthy patients receiving dental implants.

Materials and Methods

The 474 patients participating in the study were recruited from seven clinics in southern Sweden. We randomized the patients into a test and a placebo group; the study was conducted double‐blinded. Preoperatively, the test group received 2 g of amoxicillin and the control group, identical placebo tablets. The primary outcome was implant failure; secondary outcomes were postoperative infections and adverse events. Patients were evaluated at two follow‐ups: at 7–14 days and at 3–6 months.

Results

Postoperative evaluations of the antibiotic (n = 238) and the placebo (n = 235) groups noted implant failures (antibiotic group: six patients, 2.5% and placebo group: seven patients, 3.0%) and postoperative infections (antibiotic group: two patients, 0.8% and placebo group: five patients, 2.1%). No patient reported any adverse events. Between‐group differences in implant failures and postoperative infections were nonsignificant.

Conclusion

Antibiotic prophylaxis in conjunction with implant placement is likely of small benefit and should thus be avoided in most cases, especially given the unabated growth in antibiotic‐resistant bacteria. Clinical trial registration number: NCT03412305.
Monolithic zirconia single tooth implant‐supported restorations with CAD/CAM titanium abutments in the posterior region: A 1‐year prospective case series study
Authors: Donker Vincent J. J. , Raghoebar Gerry M. , Jensen‐Louwerse Charlotte , Vissink Arjan , Meijer Henny J. A.
Published: January 2022

Purpose

To assess the clinical, radiographic, and patient‐reported outcome measures, including the success of screw‐retained monolithic zirconia implant‐supported restorations with CAD/CAM titanium abutments in the posterior region during a 1‐year follow‐up.

Methods

In a prospective case series, 50 molar sites in the posterior region of 46 patients with a minimum age of 18 years and sufficient bone volume and anatomical conditions for placing an implant (≥8 mm) and an anatomical restoration were included. Parallel‐walled implants with a conical connection were inserted in a two‐stage surgical procedure. Implant uncovering and healing abutment placement occurred 12 weeks after insertion. Two weeks after mucosa healing, a screw‐retained monolithic zirconia restoration with a CAD/CAM titanium abutment was placed. Clinical, radiographic, and patient‐reported outcome measures were collected at baseline before implant placement and then during the 1 month and 1 year follow‐ups.

Results

At the 1 year follow‐up, 49 restorations could be evaluated. The plaque accumulation, presence of calculus, bleeding tendency and peri‐implant inflammation indices were low, representing healthy peri‐implant conditions. The mean marginal bone level change between the 1 month and the 1 year follow‐up was −0.17 ± 0.46 mm. The mean patient satisfaction was high. The restoration success was, according to the modified USPHS criteria, 95.9%.

Conclusion

Monolithic zirconia implant‐supported restorations with CAD/CAM titanium abutments have very good clinical, radiographic and patient‐reported outcomes after 1 year in function.
Utilisation of tracheostomy in patients with COVID‐19 in England: Patient characteristics, timing and outcomes
Authors: Navaratnam Annakan V. , Gray William K. , Wall Josh , Takhar Arun , Day Jamie , Tatla Taranjit , Batchelor Anna , Swart Michael , Snowden Christopher , Marshall Andrew , Briggs Tim W. R.
Published: January 2022

Objectives

We aimed to characterise the use of tracheostomy procedures for all COVID‐19 critical care patients in England and to understand how patient factors and timing of tracheostomy affected outcomes.

Design

A retrospective observational study using exploratory analysis of hospital administrative data.

Setting

All 500 National Health Service hospitals in England.

Participants

All hospitalised COVID‐19 patients aged ≥18 years in England between 1 March and 31 October 2020 were included.

Main outcomes and measures

This was a retrospective exploratory analysis using the Hospital Episode Statistics administrative data set. Multilevel modelling was used to explore the relationship between demographic factors, comorbidity and use of tracheostomy and the association between tracheostomy use, tracheostomy timing and the outcomes.

Results

In total, 2200 hospitalised COVID‐19 patients had a tracheostomy. Tracheostomy utilisation varied across the study period, peaking in April–June 2020. In multivariable modelling, for those admitted to critical care, tracheostomy was most common in those aged 40–79 years, in males and in people of Black and Asian ethnic groups and those with a history of cerebrovascular disease. In critical care patients, tracheostomy was associated with lower odds of mortality (OR: 0.514 [95% CI 0.443 to 0.596], but greater length of stay OR: 41.143 [95% CI 30.979 to 54.642]). In patients that survived, earlier timing of tracheostomy (≤14 days post admission to critical care) was significantly associated with shorter length of stay.

Conclusions

Tracheostomy is safe and advantageous for critical care COVID‐19 patients. Early tracheostomy may be associated with better outcomes, such as shorter length of stay, compared to late tracheostomy.
Targeting the immune system towards novel therapeutic avenues to fight brain aging and neurodegeneration
Authors: Peralta Ramos Javier María , Kviatcovsky Denise , Schwartz Michal
Published: January 2022

The incidence of age‐related dementia is growing with increased longevity, yet there are currently no disease‐modifying therapies for these devastating disorders. Studies over the last several years have led to an evolving awareness of the role of the immune system in supporting brain maintenance and repair, displaying a diverse repertoire of functions while orchestrating the crosstalk between the periphery and the brain. Here, we provide insights into the current understanding of therapeutic targets that could be adopted to modulate immune cell fate, either systemically or locally, to defeat brain aging and neurodegeneration.
Main olfactory bulb reconfiguration by prolonged passive olfactory experience correlates with increased brain‐derived neurotrophic factor and improved innate olfaction
Authors: Hernández‐Soto Rebeca , Pimentel‐Farfan Ana Karen , Adan‐Castro Elva , Clapp Carmen , Peña‐Ortega Fernando
Published: January 2022

The main olfactory bulb (MOB) is highly plastic and constantly reconfiguring its function and structure depending on sensory experience. Despite the extensive evidence of anatomical, functional and behavioural changes in the olfactory system induced by highly variable olfactory experiences, it is still unknown whether prolonged passive odour experience could reconfigure the MOB at its input and network activity levels and whether these changes impact innate olfaction. Here, by measuring odour‐induced glomerular activation, MOB network activity and innate olfactory behaviours, we described a profound MOB reconfiguration induced by prolonged passive olfactory experience in adult animals that impacts MOB input integration at the glomerular layer including an increase in the activated glomerular area and signal intensity, which is combined with a refinement in the number of activated glomeruli and less‐overlapped glomerular maps. We also found that prolonged passive olfactory experience dramatically changes MOB population activity in the presence and absence of odours, which is reflected as a decrease in slow oscillations (<12 Hz) and an increase in fast oscillations (>12 Hz). All these functional changes in awake and anaesthetized mice correlate with an increase in brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and with improved innate olfactory responses such as habituation/dishabituation and innate preference/avoidance. Our study shows that prolonged passive olfactory experience in adult animals produces a dramatic reconfiguration of the MOB network, possibly driven by BDNF, that improves innate olfactory responses.
Effects of altitude on soil properties in coastal fog ecosystems in Morro Moreno National Park, Antofagasta, Chile
Authors: Fuentes Bárbara , Gómez Francisco , Valdez Catalina , Videla Anael , Castro‐Severyn Juan , Barahona Sergio , Bol Roland , Riquelme Rodrigo , Quispe Javier , Remonsellez Francisco
Published: January 2022

Rare Pacific coast fog ecosystems are under threat from climate change and local factors. Although coastal fog is known to affect soil properties and microbial diversity, few studies on the Pacific coast have examined the specific microbiomes associated with these ecosystems. We evaluated the effects of coastal fog on the physicochemical, mineralogical, and microbiological properties of bare soils (vegetation‐free) and bulk soils (surrounding plant roots) from different altitudes in the Morro Moreno National Park (MMNP) in the Antofagasta region, Chile. We found that the temperature and relative humidity of the soil varied temporally (daily) and spatially (with altitude). We detected that soil organic matter and organic phosphorus content tended to increase with altitude, whereas the pH, electrical conductivity, and total phosphorus decreased. Our results showed that coastal fog could induce physical weathering below 300 masl and chemical weathering at the intermediate altitudes of ~400–600 masl. The biodiversity of bacteria and fungi increased considerably above 400 masl. Actinobacteria and Bacteroidetes dominated the bacteria in bare soil, and Bacteroidetes dominated the bulk soil communities at all altitudes. Ascomycota and Basidiomycota dominated the fungal community in both soil types. Moreover, the electrical conductivity and CaO content appear to be more closely associated with microbial communities from lower altitudes. In addition, the organic carbon content, humidity, and weathering index 2 (WI2) isolated some communities at 500 and 600 masl. The microbiological diversity reported in this work reflects the variable and different microbial niches comprising the MMNP environment. Linkages between soil property and microbial variations with altitude within this Northern Chilean coastal fog ecosystem were elucidated. This novel scientific knowledge contributes to global network strategies for fog ecosystem conservation, which aim to preserve the microbial niches and diversity in such soils.

Highlights

We studied physicochemical, mineralogical and microbiological properties in a fog ecosystem soils.

The study provides valuable information from rare and unique Pacific coast fog systems.

Soil properties and microbial diversity showed specific correlations, and dependence on altitude.

This baseline could contribute to the creation of conservation strategies of these unique ecosystems.
Is separate the new equal? A meta‐analytic review of correlates of intimate partner violence victimization for Black and White women in the United States
Authors: Kelly Lorin C. , Spencer Chelsea M. , Keilholtz Brooke , McAllister Paige , Stith Sandra M.
Published: January 2022

Black women experience intimate partner violence (IPV) at higher rates than White women, and are more likely to experience more serious injuries, serious mental health diagnoses, or even death as consequences of IPV. Most research on factors associated with physical IPV does not primarily focus on Black women experiencing IPV. To be able to offer targeted intervention and prevention services, understanding unique correlates is critical. To address these discrepancies and better conceptualize factors associated with IPV for Black women, a meta‐analysis was conducted to examine correlates for male physical IPV perpetration/female IPV victimization among predominantly Black samples. Next, strengths of correlates for male IPV perpetration/female IPV victimization were compared between Black and White samples. From an original pool of 759 articles examining correlates for IPV perpetration and victimization, 21 articles were usable that had a sufficient percentage (at least 75%) of Black participants and 80 articles that had a sufficient percentage (at least 75%) of White participants. Five significant correlates for male perpetration and seven significant correlates for female victimization in predominantly Black samples were identified. Comparisons for male perpetration/female victimization between predominantly White and Black samples were conducted for nine correlates, and one‐third of these correlates (male emotional abuse perpetration, female post‐traumatic stress symptoms, and female alcohol use) were significantly stronger correlates in Black populations compared to White populations. Research and clinical implications are discussed.