bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Compartment‐specific effects of muscle strength on bone microarchitecture in women at high risk of osteoporosis
Authors: Simon Alexander , Schäfer Hannah S. , Schmidt Felix N. , Stürznickel Julian , Amling Michael , Rolvien Tim
Published: July 2022

Background

It is well known that skeletal integrity is influenced by the musculature. Poor muscle strength (i.e. sarcopenia) is considered a major predictor of fragility fractures. While this observation appears particularly relevant for older women with increased risk of osteoporosis, there has been no comprehensive investigation to determine the influence of muscle performance on compartment‐specific bone microarchitecture in multiple body regions.

Methods

We retrospectively analysed data from different muscle performance and bone microarchitecture assessments in 230 women (aged 21 to 87 years) at high risk of osteoporosis. Muscle performance tests included grip strength and chair rising test (CRT) combined with mechanography. Balance was determined by Romberg posturography. Areal bone mineral density (BMD) was measured by dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry (DXA) at the hip and lumbar spine. Compartment‐specific volumetric BMD, microarchitecture, and geometry were assessed by second‐generation high‐resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR‐pQCT) at multiple skeletal sites (distal radius, tibia, and fibula). Regression models were applied to test for interactions between muscle and bone parameters. Subgroups were defined to compare women with osteoporosis and osteosarcopenia regarding BMD and microarchitecture.

Results

While osteoporosis was diagnosed in 115/230 (50.0%) women, sarcopenia was detected in 38/230 (16.5%). Positive associations of both grip strength and CRT maximum force with cortical geometric and microarchitectural parameters were detected at all measured sites, with the strongest effect applying to CRT maximum force and tibial parameters (e.g. tibial cortical area R2 = 0.36, P < 0.0001, and tibial cortical thickness R2 = 0.26, P < 0.0001). Balance parameters showed much weaker or no associations with HR‐pQCT parameters. Major associations between muscle strength and trabecular parameters could not be confirmed. Age and body mass index were confirmed as negative and positive predictors for several microarchitectural parameters, respectively. An independent predictive value of grip strength on radial, tibial, and fibular (all P < 0.01) cortical area and of CRT maximum relative force on cortical thickness (all P < 0.05) was revealed. Women with osteosarcopenia showed significantly reduced cortical HR‐pQCT parameters but no differences in DXA values compared with women with osteoporosis but no sarcopenia. Stratification by fracture and treatment status revealed that vertebral fractures and denosumab treatment altered the muscle–bone interaction.

Conclusions

A systemic interaction between muscle strength and bone microarchitecture was demonstrated, and this interaction appears to be primarily with the cortical bone compartment. The value of muscle assessments in fracture risk evaluation may be partly mediated by their effects on bone microarchitecture.
Microbial community composition and soil metabolism in the coexisting Cordyceps militaris and Ophiocordyceps highlandensis
Authors: Xu Xiaorong , Zhang Xiaomei , Huang Zhipu , Xu Yuxiao , Tang Dexiang , Zhang Bing , Zhang Ketao , Liu Chaojin , Yu Hong
Published: July 2022

Cordyceps sensu lato is a complex fungus‐larva symbiote, and its distribution is affected by the geography, climate, soil environment, and cohabitating microorganisms. However, despite the fact Cordyceps militaris and Ophiocordyceps highlandensis are different species, they coexist in the Pinus armandi forest of Dashao in Songming County, Yunnan, China. We explored the microbial compositions and soil metabolism inhabited by C. militaris and O. highlandensis using high‐throughput sequencing and nontargeted metabonomics. The results indicated that the bacterial and fungal compositions in the soil microhabitat communities of C. militaris, O. highlandensis, and null Cordyceps group were similar. However, the community compositions in the fruiting bodies of C. militaris and O. highlandensis were different. The dominant phylum Ascomycota and dominant genus Cordyceps were detected in the fruiting body of C. militaris. Except for Ascomycota, the dominant phylum Chytridiomycota and dominant genera Ophiocordyceps, Unclassified_k__Hypocreales, Circinotrichum, Cladosporium, and Unclassified_k__chytridiomycetesg were detected in the fruiting body of O. highlandensis. The plant probiotic bacteria Phyllobacterium was detected in the fruiting body of C. militaris. The growth‐promoting bacteria Pseudomonas was detected in the fruiting body of O. highlandensis. Soil metabolism analysis revealed that pathways associated with amino acid metabolism was significantly enriched in O. highlandensis. Correlation analysis of bacterial diversity and soil metabolites revealed that the relative abundances of bacterial operational taxonomic units and the relative contents of metabolites were consistent. Our results provide insights into the microbial diversity and soil metabolism of naturally coexisting C. militaris and O. highlandensis.
Prediction of Ki‐67 of Invasive Ductal Breast Cancer Based on Ultrasound Radiomics Nomogram
Authors: Zhu Yunpei , Dou Yanping , Qin Ling , Wang Hui , Wen Zhihong
Published: July 2022

Purpose

The objective of this research was to develop and validate an ultrasound‐based radiomics nomogram for the pre‐operative assessment of Ki‐67 in breast cancer (BC).

Materials and Methods

From December 2016 to December 2018, 515 patients with invasive ductal breast cancer who received two‐dimensional (2D) ultrasound and Ki‐67 examination were studied and analyzed retrospectively. The dataset was distributed at random into a training cohort (n = 360) and a test cohort (n = 155) in the ratio of 7:3. Each tumor region of interest was defined based on 2D ultrasound images and radiomics features were extracted. ANOVA, maximum correlation minimum redundancy (mRMR) algorithm, and minimum absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) were performed to pick features, and independent clinical predictors were integrated with radscore to construct the nomogram for predicting Ki‐67 index by univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis. The performance and utility of the models were evaluated by plotting receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, decision curve analysis (DCA), and calibration curves.

Results

In the testing cohort, the area under the receiver characteristic curve (AUC) of the nomogram was 0.770 (95% confidence interval, 0.690–0.860). In both cohorts, the nomogram outperformed both the clinical model and the radiomics model (P < .05 according to the DeLong test). The analysis of DCA proved that the model has clinical utility.

Conclusions

The nomogram based on 2D ultrasound images offered an approach for predicting Ki‐67 in BC.
Characteristics of Riehl melanosis in an ethnic Asian population: A comparative study according to age, sex, and hair dye use
Authors: Choi Myoung Eun , Lim Youngkyoung , Lee Woo Jin , Won Chong Hyun , Lee Mi Woo , Chang Sung Eun
Published: July 2022

Background

Riehl melanosis, characterized by diffuse brown to grey hyperpigmentation of the face and neck, affects middle‐aged women with dark skin phototypes. Riehl melanosis prevalence has increased in Korea, and a relationship with henna hair dye has been suspected. In this study, we aimed to evaluate clinical features and patch test results of Riehl melanosis patients and analyse them according to age, sex, and hair dye use.

Methods

We identified patients showing clinical and histopathological manifestations consistent with Riehl melanosis between January 2009 and December 2019 in our medical centre.

Results

Of 154 patients, 76.5% had positive patch‐test results, and the most common sensitizing agents were nickel, cobalt, and benzyl salicylate. Patients ≥50 years old were more likely to have spotty hyperpigmentation and less likely to have diffuse patterns, while lesions in the younger‐aged group were more commonly accompanied by erythema. Preceding erythema was found more often in female patients. Hair dye usage was more likely to be associated with aggravation of symptoms in females. Patients who developed Riehl melanosis after hair‐dye use more frequently had lesions on the forehead and were diagnosed an average of 14.1 months earlier as compared with other patients. Short disease duration, aggravation by hair dye (except henna), laser therapy, and longer follow‐up periods were related to good treatment responses.

Conclusions

Detailed history taking regarding disease duration and aggravating factors as well as the length of the period of laser therapy can be important for the management of Riehl melanosis patients.
Serum cytokine/chemokine levels in a patient with perifolliculitis capitis abscedens et suffodiens (dissecting cellulitis) successfully treated with the tumour necrosis factor α inhibitor adalimumab
Authors: Koike Yuta , Hattori Naoko , Murota Hiroyuki
Published: July 2022

Perifolliculitis capitis abscedens et suffodiens (PCAS), also called dissecting cellulitis, is a refractory disease characterized by deep follicular occlusion, ruptures and infections. Here, we present a case of PCAS in a young man whose scalp showed subcutaneous nodules with purulent secretions, and geographic hair loss from the occipital region. Since the PCAS was refractory to treatment by incision, drainage and systemic antibiotics, we administered adalimumab, an antitumour necrosis factor (TNF) antibody. After 4 months of treatment with adalimumab, the PCAS improved markedly, with flattening of the scalp lesions and hair regrowth. We examined the serum levels of cytokines/chemokines using a Magnetic Bead Panel Plate Assay to compare levels before and at 3 months post‐adalimumab treatment. The results showed a slight decrease in TNF‐α levels and a significant reduction in the expression of cytokines or chemokines that promote macrophage and neutrophil migration, suggesting that these factors might contribute to the pathogenesis of PCAS.
Solvent effect on activities of aryloxyl‐radical scavenging and singlet‐oxygen quenching reactions by vitamin E: Addition of water to ethanol solution
Authors: Nagaoka Shin‐ichi , Nomoto Nanaho , Tasaka Tomohiko , Nagashima Umpei , Matsumoto Takatoshi , Ohara Keishi
Published: July 2022

Solvent effects on the activities of aryloxyl‐radical (aroxyl‐radical) scavenging and singlet‐oxygen (1O2) quenching reactions by vitamin E (α‐tocopherol) were studied with stopped‐flow and laser spectroscopies together with density functional calculations. Partial electron transfer from α‐tocopherol plays an important role in an early step of each of these antioxidant reactions. To shed light on the solvent effects, we used ethanol as the reference solvent and added water to it. The rate constant of the aryloxyl‐radical scavenging reaction by α‐tocopherol increased monotonously by adding water to the ethanol solution, because the oxidation potential of α‐tocopherol decreases as water is added. Although the rate constant of the 1O2 quenching reaction similarly increased with increasing water concentration from 0% to 10% v/v, it reached a maximum at about 10% v/v and decreased in the range 10%–20% v/v. The suppression of the 1O2 quenching in the 10%–20% v/v range could be attributed to complexes forming between 1O2 and the water molecules. On the basis of the present results, we inferred how the antioxidant activities of α‐tocopherol depend on its position in biomembranes.
Intraoperative quantitative assessment of parathyroid blood flow during total thyroidectomy using indocyanine green fluorescence imaging ‐ surgical strategies for preserving the function of parathyroid glands
Authors: Iritani Keisuke , Teshima Masanori , Shimoda Hikari , Shinomiya Hirotaka , Otsuki Naoki , Nibu Ken‐ichi
Published: July 2022

Objective

We investigated the factors affecting postoperative parathyroid gland (PTG) function and devised an objective index to predict the postoperative PTG function during total thyroidectomy.

Method

This was a retrospective clinical review of 21 consecutive patients who were diagnosed with papillary thyroid carcinoma and underwent total thyroidectomy. The maximum intensity ratio (MIR) was determined as the maximum fluorescence intensity after ICG injection divided by the intensity before ICG injection.

Results

Postoperative hypoparathyroidism is significantly associated with simultaneous central neck dissection (CND) and lateral neck dissection (LND) (p = .032). The Spearman correlation test showed a moderate correlation between the MIR and iPTH levels (p = .0047). The optimal MIR cutoff value for predicting postoperative hypoparathyroidism was 2.14 with area under the curve = 0.904 (sensitivity: 0.769 and specificity: 1.00).

Conclusion

CND + LND was significantly associated with postoperative hypoparathyroidism. MIR was found useful in predicting the postoperative PTG function.

Level of Evidence: 3b.
Short‐ and long‐term strategies for navigating research‐ambivalent organizational cultures besetting embedded researchers
Authors: Hudson Matthew F.
Published: July 2022

Many health systems may host embedded researchers (ERs) and provide fiscal resources to encourage health service research. However, ERs may remain challenged to initiate research in these settings. This discussion examines how health system culture may impede research initiation, thereby exposing a paradox for embedded researchers immersed in research‐ambivalent health systems. The discussion ultimately describes potential short‐term and long‐term strategies embedded researchers may employ to initiate scholarly inquiry in research‐ambivalent health systems.
Consumers' identity signaling towards social groups: The effects of dissociative desire on brand prominence preferences
Authors: Raimondo Maria Antonietta , Cardamone Ernesto , Miceli Gaetano “Nino” , Bagozzi Richard P.
Published: July 2022

The present research addresses an area of brand behavior that is under studied to date but has important implications for national and international brands. Brand prominence, that is, the extent to which a product reveals important visible brand identifiers, plays a fundamental role in determining consumer signaling behavior towards social groups and requires accurate brand management decisions. Integrating the literatures on brand prominence and social groups, this study proposes that the presence (vs. absence) of dissociative desire towards an out‐group increases the preference for products featuring more prominent signs of a brand relevant for an in‐group. Brand self‐verification explains the relationship between dissociative desire and brand prominence preferences. Moreover, this effect disappears when the brand is used by the minority (vs. majority) of other in‐group members and the identification with the in‐group is lower. Results of two experiments and one survey support our conceptual framework and suggest that managers should use more prominent brand signs to attract consumers desiring to dissociate from relevant out‐groups. Our research thus provides implications for defining branding strategies according to consumers' identity signaling goals towards social groups, which are becoming more important as brands assume global roles in tension with consumer identities and marketing strategy.
Effects of short daylight and mild low temperature on mitochondrial degeneration in the testis of Cricetulus barabensis
Authors: Zhao Xiang‐Yu , Wang Shuo , Xu Jin‐Hui , Wang Chuan‐Li , Feng Yong‐Zhen , Xue Hui‐Liang , Wu Ming , Chen Lei , Xu Lai‐Xiang
Published: July 2022

In this study, we investigated the mitochondrial energy supply capacity and molecular mechanisms of apoptosis, mitochondrial fission, and mitophagy in regulating mitochondrial degeneration in testis of striped dwarf hamsters (Cricetulus barabensis) under mild low temperature (15°C) and short daylight (10 h:14 h) conditions. Results showed that under moderate daylight and mild low temperature (ML), short daylight and moderate temperature (SM), short daylight and mild low temperature (SL) conditions, the mitochondria were swollen and cristae were disrupted. Compared with the moderate daylight & moderate temperature group (MM; 12 h:12 h, 22°C), the number of mitochondria was significantly decreased in the SM and SL groups. Both short daylight and mild low temperature reduced the protein expression of citrate synthase, thus the energy supply capacity of mitochondria may be weakened. Compared with the MM group, bax/bcl2 protein expression was higher in three treatment groups, and caspase3 activity increased in SM and SL groups, suggesting that short daylight can induce apoptosis. DRP1 protein expression showed no difference in four groups, while the FIS1 protein expression was significantly decreased in three treatment groups, this indicates that short daylight and mild low temperature can increase mitochondrial fission level. PINK1 protein expression was significantly increased in ML and SL groups, indicates that mild low temperature will lead to increased mitophagy level. Generally, short daylight induced degeneration of mitochondria in the testis of hamsters mainly by increasing apoptosis, while under mild low temperature, balanced regulation of mitophagy and mitochondrial fission appear to contribute to the protection of mitochondria.
Modeling Propylene Polymerization in a Two‐Reactor System: Model Development and Parameter Estimation
Authors: Charoenpanich Thanutchoke , Anantawaraskul Siripon , Soares João B. P. , Wongmahasirikun Phonpimon , Shiohara Supawadee
Published: July 2022

A series of two reactors is commonly used to produce commercial polypropylene resins to make products with a broad range of microstructures using different feeding policies and/or operating conditions in both reactors. A mathematical model describing the molecular weight distribution (MWD) and yield of polypropylene made with a Ziegler–Natta catalyst in a two‐reactor system is developed in this work. A new methodology to estimate the polymerization kinetic parameters combining the simultaneous MWD deconvolution and analysis of polymer yields in both reactors is also proposed. This pragmatic approach can be applied without knowledge of detailed polymerization rates and is, therefore, very convenient to quantify polymerizations in continuous pilot and/or commercial reactors, where such information is generally not available.
Temporal Population Trends and Habitat Associations for Mountain Whitefish in Central Idaho
Authors: Roth Curtis J. , Meyer Kevin A. , Roberts Ronald V. , Lipple Brock A. , Stark Eric J. , Copeland Timothy
Published: July 2022

Mountain Whitefish Prosopium williamsoni have failed to garner the same level of attention as other members of the salmonid family in terms of scientific investigations, especially with regard to habitat associations and population status. Consequently, we used snorkel survey data from 1985 to 2019 to relate a suite of environmental factors to Mountain Whitefish occupancy and abundance and to estimate population growth rates in central Idaho. Mountain Whitefish population growth rates in the majority of subbasins in central Idaho appear to be stable or increasing over the past several decades, but more so in the Salmon River basin than in the Clearwater River basin. Mountain Whitefish occupancy and abundance were higher in stream reaches that were lower in elevation and gradient and larger in size, with an occupancy rate of <0.10 in stream reaches that were <6 m average wetted width but >0.50 in stream reaches that were ≥9 m average wetted width. Road density was positively associated with the occupancy and abundance of Mountain Whitefish, contrasting previous studies that generally report negative associations between road density and salmonid population metrics. While this relationship may simply be correlative in nature, in the relatively sterile lotic environment of central Idaho, such anthropogenic disturbance may inadvertently result in nutrient enrichment, potentially benefitting the forage base of Mountain Whitefish. We also observed that conductivity positively influenced Mountain Whitefish abundance, likely stemming from its direct effect on stream productivity. Although the status of Mountain Whitefish in central Idaho appears generally stable, the paucity of studies reporting on the status of this species highlights the need for additional research devoted to a better understanding of trends in Mountain Whitefish abundance across their range.
Diabesity phenotype and the risks of cardiovascular disease and subclinical atherosclerosis: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Kong Lijie , Qi Yan , Ye Chaojie , Wang Yiying , Zhao Zhiyun , Li Mian , Wang Shuangyuan , Lin Hong , Xu Yu , Xu Min , Lu Jieli , Chen Yuhong , Wang Weiqing , Ning Guang , Bi Yufang , Wang Tiange
Published: July 2022

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the associations of diabesity with incident cardiovascular disease (CVD) and subclinical atherosclerosis.

Methods

The prospective cohort study included 8,006 participants without baseline CVD. Diabesity was categorized as (i) normal glucose tolerance (NGT) with nonobesity; (ii) NGT with obesity; (iii) prediabetes with nonobesity; (iv) prediabetes with obesity; (v) diabetes with nonobesity; and (vi) diabetes with obesity. The hazard ratios (HRs) for incident CVD and odds ratios (ORs) for subclinical atherosclerosis associated with diabesity categories were examined.

Results

Compared with the category of NGT with nonobesity, the categories of NGT with obesity (HR 1.68; 95% CI: 1.10–2.57), diabetes with nonobesity (HR 1.42; 95% CI: 1.08–1.88), and diabetes with obesity (HR 1.78; 95% CI: 1.24–2.55) were associated with higher risks of CVD. Prediabetes with or without obesity conferred no excess risk for CVD but higher risks for subclinical atherosclerosis. The diabetes with obesity category was associated with the highest risk for elevated pulse pressure (OR 3.07; 95% CI: 2.06–4.58) and albuminuria (OR 3.39; 95% CI: 2.31–4.99), and diabetes with or without obesity showed comparable ORs for elevated brachial–ankle pulse wave velocity.

Conclusions

The association patterns between diabesity and CVD risks support the value of diabesity as a prevention target for CVD.
Inflammatory markers in pregnant women with periodontal diseases—Systematic review and network meta‐analysis
Authors: Kania Michal , Malinowski Krzysztof Piotr , Słowik Joanna , Władysiuk Magdalena , Szopa Magdalena
Published: July 2022

Periodontal diseases (PD) have been associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. Several studies reported on cytokines concentrations and oxidative stress in periodontal patients during pregnancy. We aimed at reviewing systemic inflammatory markers concentrations and oxidative stress status in the serum of pregnant women with periodontal diseases (PD) and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). In this systematic review and network meta‐analysis, 5595 studies were screened. In the non‐GDM arm of 48 reviewed articles, 11 were included: six for CRP, two for TNF‐alpha, and three for total antioxidant capacity (TAOC). CRP and TNF‐alpha were higher in PD groups in comparison with healthy periodontum group; however, the differences were not statistically significant, whereas TAOC was lower in PD group. In the GDM arm of eight articles, two were included: one for CRP and one for adiponectin and leptin, which was insufficient for further analysis. The evidence for differences in the concentrations of inflammatory markers in pregnant women with PD and with healthy periodontum is limited, mainly due to confounding factors such as varying PD diagnostic criteria and methodology of assessing cytokine levels. However, these results may suggest a particular trend toward an attenuated inflammatory response in pregnant periodontal patients. There still exists a paucity of data on the subject.
The active form of Helicobacter pylori vacuolating cytotoxin induces decay‐accelerating factor CD55 in association with intestinal metaplasia in the human gastric mucosa
Authors: Kaneko Kazuyo , Zaitoun Abed M , Letley Darren P , Rhead Joanne L , Torres Javier , Spendlove Ian , Atherton John C , Robinson Karen
Published: July 2022

High‐level expression of decay‐accelerating factor, CD55, has previously been found in human gastric cancer (GC) and intestinal metaplasia (IM) tissues. Therapeutic effects of CD55 inhibition in cancer have been reported. However, the role of Helicobacter pylori infection and virulence factors in the induction of CD55 and its association with histological changes of the human gastric mucosa remain incompletely understood. We hypothesised that CD55 would be increased during infection with more virulent strains of H. pylori, and with more marked gastric mucosal pathology. RT‐qPCR and immunohistochemical analyses of gastric biopsy samples from 42 H. pylori‐infected and 42 uninfected patients revealed that CD55 mRNA and protein were significantly higher in the gastric antrum of H. pylori‐infected patients, and this was associated with the presence of IM, but not atrophy, or inflammation. Increased gastric CD55 and IM were both linked with colonisation by vacA i1‐type strains independently of cagA status, and in vitro studies using isogenic mutants of vacA confirmed the ability of VacA to induce CD55 and sCD55 in gastric epithelial cell lines. siRNA experiments to investigate the function of H. pylori‐induced CD55 showed that CD55 knockdown in gastric epithelial cells partially reduced IL‐8 secretion in response to H. pylori, but this was not due to modulation of bacterial adhesion or cytotoxicity. Finally, plasma samples taken from the same patients were analysed for the soluble form of CD55 (sCD55) by ELISA. sCD55 levels were not influenced by IM and did not correlate with gastric CD55 mRNA levels. These results suggest a new link between active vacA i1‐type H. pylori, IM, and CD55, and identify CD55 as a molecule of potential interest in the management of IM as well as GC treatment. © 2022 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Sexual health and intimacy after cancer treatment in women of color: A systematic review
Authors: Arthur Elizabeth K. , Bissram Jennifer , Rechenberg Kaitlyn , Wills Annie , Campanelli Katie , Menon Usha , Nolan Timiya S.
Published: July 2022

Objective

Cancer diagnosis and treatment can significantly affect women's sexual health and intimacy, leading to diminished quality of life in survivorship. The perspectives and experiences of women of color (WOC) with cancer are critical to inform comprehensive, inclusive sexual wellbeing care in survivorship. The purpose of this systematic review is to summarize contemporary literature describing sexual wellbeing experiences of WOC treated for cancer.

Methods

A comprehensive search of CINAHL, PubMed, Embase and PsycInfo and Scopus identified studies that addressed sex and intimacy of U.S. WOC treated for cancer published in the last 15 years. The authors identified emergent themes from the literature through thematic content analysis.

Results

Eighteen studies (10 qualitative, 8 quantitative) met the inclusion criteria, all with breast or gynecologic cancer samples. Studies include African American (13), Asian American (3), and Latina (10) women, as well as Non‐Hispanic Whites and ‘other’ race/ethnicity women. Overarching themes identified were: 1) impacts of treatment on sexual health and body image, 2) process of accepting and overcoming, 3) value of an engaged and supportive partner, and 4) current clinical practice and barriers to sexual health care.

Conclusions

WOC experience changes in sex and intimacy after cancer treatment, and experiences of sexual function, sexual communication, and sexual healthcare are often shaped by sociocultural experiences. An understanding of WOC's sexual health and intimacy after cancer treatment can inform inclusive, culturally responsive sexual health interventions.
Population pharmacokinetic analysis of etrolizumab in patients with moderately‐to‐severely active ulcerative colitis
Authors: Moein Anita , Lu Tong , Jönsson Siv , Ribbing Jakob , Kassir Nastya , Zhang Wenhui , Sperinde Gizette , Zhang Rong , Tang Meina , Oh Young S. , Bruno Rene , Zhu Rui
Published: July 2022

Etrolizumab is an IgG1‐humanized monoclonal antibody that specifically targets the β7 subunit of α4β7 and α4Eβ7 integrins, and it has been evaluated for the treatment of moderately‐to‐severely active ulcerative colitis (UC). Population pharmacokinetic (PK) analysis was performed to characterize etrolizumab PK properties in patients with moderately‐to‐severely active UC and evaluate covariate impacts on exposure. The population PK model was developed based on etrolizumab serum concentrations from patients with moderately‐to‐severely active UC enrolled in six studies (one phase I, one phase II, and four phase III) and validated using another phase III clinical trial. Stepwise covariate modeling was used to evaluate the impact of 23 prespecified covariates. Etrolizumab PK was best described by a two‐compartment model with first‐order absorption, with clearance decreasing over time. Population typical values were 0.260 L/day for clearance (CL) during the first dosing internal, 2.61 L for central volume, 71.2% for bioavailability, and 0.193/day for absorption rate. CL reduced over the study duration, the typical maximum reduction was 26% with an onset half‐life of 4.8 weeks. Consequently, the predicted mean terminal half‐life was shorter after a single dose (13.0 days) compared to that at steady‐state (17.1 days). Baseline body weight and albumin were the most impactful covariates for etrolizumab exposure. Final population PK model well characterized the PK properties of etrolizumab in patients with moderately‐to‐severely active UC and identified influential covariate effects.
Calculations of the Structural, Electronic, Optical, and Elastic Parameters of CdSiX2(X = P, As) Compounds Based on First‐Principles Theory
Authors: Tiouiri Hadda , Baaziz Hakim , Ghellab Torkia , Charifi Zoulikha
Published: July 2022

Density functional theory is used to investigate the structural, electronic, optical, and mechanical aspects of the chalcopyrites CdSiP2and CdSiAs2using both the generalized gradient approximation and the local density approximation. The substitution of As for P alters the lattice constants, elastic constants, and dielectric characteristics considerably. The theoretical calculations correspond reasonably well with experimental data and other theoretical computations. The results of the electronic band structure analysis indicate that all of the compounds investigated are semiconductors with direct bands located at the Γ point. CdSiP2possesses the highest elastic constants and bulk modulus, whereas CdSiAs2has the highest values of shear modulus and Young's modulus. Moreover, specific focus is also given to obtaining the orientation‐dependent linear compressibility and Young's modulus. In bulk, CdSiP2and CdSiAs2are isotropic, although their Young's modulus is anisotropic. In addition, the optical response of the compounds is examined in the energy range of 0–14 eV in terms of dielectric functions, optical reflectivity, refractive index, extinction coefficient, optical conductivity, and electron energy loss. The computed optical results indicate that all compounds exhibit optical polarization anisotropy, making them suitable for optoelectronic devices.
Sustainable development, disclosure to stakeholders and the Sustainable Development Goals: Evidence from Brazilian banks' non‐financial reports
Authors: Chagas Ederson Jorge Melo das , Albuquerque José de Lima , Maia Filho Luiz Flávio Arreguy , Ceolin Alessandra Carla
Published: July 2022

The UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are ambitious global targets proposed by 2030 Agenda. The private sector should contribute to these goals, and the non‐financial disclosure reports is the primary means to inform stakeholders about the impacts of corporate activities on the environment and society, as well as their contributions to sustainable development. Therefore, measuring the quality of these reports is an essential task in order to propose improvements and identify the level of transparency. This article analyses 11 non‐financial reports of the largest banks operating in Brazil, using a methodological approach divided into two stages: the sustainability disclosure matrix and the measurement system. The first stage is based on the analysis of the material topics provided for in the reports under the Global Reporting Initiative standard and their relationship with the SDGs. The second stage quantitatively measures the different degrees of quality of the information disclosed for each disclosure topic, generating the disclosure quality performance indicator. This indicator allows indicating how pro sustainability a corporation is. The work contributes by proposing a quality classification of the non‐financial report, besides revealing the direct relationship existing between the number of material topics reported and the quality indicator. The main result of the empirical analysis is that Brazilian banks' reports are of low quality. Some practical implications: it was found that the more information disclosed, the better the quality of reporting; and the use of integrated reporting as a tool for disclosure of non‐financial results is suggested.
Toward an Embedded, Integrated, and Collaborative Approach to SDG Localization in African Cities
Authors: Croese Sylvia
Published: July 2022

The African continent represents the key hub in the global transition to a predominantly urban world. Hence, the fate of African cities—and the global South more generally—will have major implications for the extent to which the world will be able to achieve globally agreed development goals, such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Questions about what makes for effective take-up of the SDGs lie at the heart of this book’s aim and contribution. A key term in this regard is that of “localization.” This chapter makes a case for an approach to SDG localization that is embedded in the continent’s diverse local contexts. As an introduction to the book, this chapter departs from integrated perspectives and collaborative methodologies and outlines the ways in which the book’s chapters illustrate the need for advancing such an approach in African cities.
Holographic duals of M5-branes on an irregularly punctured sphere
Authors: Couzens Christopher , Kim Hyojoong , Kim Nakwoo , Lee Yein
Published: July 2022

Abstract

We provide explicit holographic duals of M5-branes wrapped on a sphere with one irregular puncture and one regular puncture of arbitrary type. The solutions generalise the solutions corresponding to M5-branes wrapped on a disc recently constructed by Bah-Bonetti-Minasian-Nardoni by allowing for a general choice of regular puncture. We show that the central charges, flavour central charges and conformal dimensions of BPS operators match with a class of Argyres-Douglas theory.
Nonlocality of quantum matter corrections and cosmological constant running
Authors: Gorbar E. V. , Shapiro Ilya L.
Published: July 2022

Abstract

Semiclassical loop corrections to the gravitational action include various terms with zero, two, and four derivatives of the metric as well as nonlocal form factors for these terms. Contributions to some of these terms could be confused with others on a specific metric background or for a particular gauge fixing. We present a critical analysis of the recent works where the tensor structure and the number of derivatives in the action of gravity were not properly taken into account. Taking these relevant aspects into account, we show that although some contributions owing to the quantum fluctuations of massive or massless scalar as well as fermion and vector fields may be attributed to the “running” of the cosmological constant, in reality they correspond to the fourth derivative terms of the action.
Increased surface P2X4 receptors by mutant SOD1 proteins contribute to ALS pathogenesis in SOD1-G93A mice
Authors: Bertin Eléonore , Martinez Audrey , Fayoux Anne , Carvalho Kevin , Carracedo Sara , Fernagut Pierre-Olivier , Koch-Nolte Friedrich , Blum David , Bertrand Sandrine S. , Boué-Grabot Eric
Published: July 2022

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal motoneuron (MN) disease characterized by protein misfolding and aggregation leading to cellular degeneration. So far neither biomarker, nor effective treatment has been found. ATP signaling and P2X4 receptors (P2X4) are upregulated in various neurodegenerative diseases. Here we show that several ALS-related misfolded proteins including mutants of SOD1 or TDP-43 lead to a significant increase in surface P2X4 receptor density and function in vitro. In addition, we demonstrate in the spinal the cord of SOD1-G93A (SOD1) mice that misfolded SOD1-G93A proteins directly interact with endocytic adaptor protein-2 (AP2); thus, acting as negative competitors for the interaction between AP2 and P2X4, impairing constitutive P2X4 endocytosis. The higher P2X4 surface density was particularly observed in peripheral macrophages of SOD1 mice before the onset and during the progression of ALS symptoms positioning P2X4 as a potential early biomarker for ALS. P2X4 expression was also upregulated in spinal microglia of SOD1 mice during ALS and affect microglial inflammatory responses. Importantly, we report using double transgenic SOD1 mice expressing internalization-defective P2X4mCherryIN knock-in gene or invalidated for the P2X4 gene that P2X4 is instrumental for motor symptoms, ALS progression and survival. This study highlights the role of P2X4 in the pathophysiology of ALS and thus its potential for the development of biomarkers and treatments. We also decipher the molecular mechanism by which misfolded proteins related to ALS impact P2X4 trafficking at early pathological stage in cells expressing-P2X4.
Periodic homogenization in the context of structured deformations
Authors: Amar Micol , Matias José , Morandotti Marco , Zappale Elvira
Published: July 2022

An energy for first-order structured deformations in the context of periodic homogenization is obtained. This energy, defined in principle by relaxation of an initial energy of integral-type featuring contributions of bulk and interfacial terms, is proved to possess an integral representation in terms of relaxed bulk and interfacial energy densities. These energy densities, in turn, are obtained via asymptotic cell formulae defined by suitably averaging, over larger and larger cubes, the bulk and surface contributions of the initial energy. The integral representation theorem, the main result of this paper, is obtained by mixing blow-up techniques, typical in the context of structured deformations, with the averaging process underlying the theory of homogenization.
Akzeptanz und Stand der Digitalisierung in Klinik und Praxis
Authors: Borkowetz Angelika , Leitsmann Marianne , Baunacke Martin , Borgmann Hendrik , Boehm Katharina , Groeben Christer , Roigas Jan , Schneider Andreas W. , Speck Thomas , Schroeder-Printzen Immo , Zillich Susanne , Volkmer Björn , Witzsch Ulrich , Huber Johannes ,   Arbeitskreis Versorgungsforschung, Qualität und Ökonomie der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Urologie e. V.,   Arbeitskreis Informationstechnologie und Dokumentation der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Urologie e. V.
Published: July 2022

Hintergrund

Die Digitalisierung der Patientendokumentation und die Einführung der elektronischen Patientenakte (ePA) stellen den klinischen Alltag vor große Herausforderungen.

Fragestellung

Wir untersuchten die Akzeptanz und den Stand der Digitalisierung von Patientendaten sowie die Einführung der ePA bei den deutschen Urologen.

Material und Methoden

Nach einem iterativen Entwicklungsprozess erhielten wir einen Fragebogen mit 30 Items, welcher über den Forschungsnewsletter der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Urologie e. V. versendet wurde.

Ergebnisse

Insgesamt beantworteten 80 Urologen den Fragebogen (Rücklaufquote 2 %). Digitale Plattformen wie Urotube oder Researchgate wurden von 63 % der Teilnehmer verwendet. Die komplette Einführung der digitalen Patientendokumentation erfolgte bei 72 % der ambulant Tätigen und bei 54 % der in der Klinik Tätigen (p = 0,042). 76 % der Befragten sahen den Digitalisierungsprozess als sinnvoll an. 34 % äußerten teilweise oder starke Bedenken bzgl. einer kompletten Digitalisierung der Patientendokumentation. Nur 14 % der Teilnehmer haben eine Videosprechstunde angeboten. Als Vorteile für die ePA wurden u. a. die bessere Vernetzung des Gesundheitswesens (73 %), die Verbesserung der Diagnose, der Indikations- (41 %) und der Behandlungsqualität (48 %) sowie die Vermeidung von Fehlmedikation (70 %) gesehen.

Schlussfolgerung

Die deutschen Urologen stehen der Digitalisierung der Patientendokumentation und der ePA insgesamt offen gegenüber. Insbesondere jüngere Urologen nutzen digitale Medien. Die Vorteile der Digitalisierung sind insbesondere eine Verbesserung der Behandlungsabläufe. Für eine reibungslose Einführung sind eine bereichsübergreifende Etablierung und ggf. eine Anpassung der Behandlungsprozesse notwendig.
Bourgeois contact structures: Tightness, fillability and applications
Authors: Bowden Jonathan , Gironella Fabio , Moreno Agustin
Published: July 2022

Given a contact structure on a manifold V together with a supporting open book decomposition, Bourgeois gave an explicit construction of a contact structure on $$V \times {\mathbb {T}}^2$$

V
×

T

2

. We prove that all such structures are universally tight in dimension 5, independent of whether the original contact manifold is itself tight or overtwisted. In arbitrary dimensions, we provide obstructions to the existence of strong symplectic fillings of Bourgeois manifolds. This gives a broad class of new examples of weakly but not strongly fillable contact 5-manifolds, as well as the first examples of weakly but not strongly fillable contact structures in all odd dimensions. These obstructions are particular instances of more general obstructions for $${\mathbb {S}}^1$$

S

1

-invariant contact manifolds. We also obtain a classification result in arbitrary dimensions, namely that the unit cotangent bundle of the n-torus has a unique symplectically aspherical strong filling up to diffeomorphism.
Clavicular hook plate for acute high-grade acromioclavicular dislocation involving Rockwood type V: clinical and radiological outcomes and complications evaluation
Authors: Liu Guoming , Hu Yanling , Ye Fagang , Huang Fuguo , Yu Tengbo
Published: July 2022

Background

The surgical treatment of high-grade acromioclavicular joint dislocation remains a matter of debate. Clavicular hook plate internal fixation was widely used in the treatment of acromioclavicular dislocation because of its easy-to-master surgical technique. This study aimed to evaluate outcomes using hook plate fixation for acromioclavicular dislocation.

Methods

A consecutive series of 57 patients with acute acromioclavicular joint dislocation involving Rockwood type V were treated between November 2013 and September 2019 using hook plate fixation. The functional outcomes (using the visual analogue score, Constant-Murley score, and University of California Los Angeles score), the quality of surgical reduction (using the coracoclavicular distance), and post-operative complications were assessed with about 46 months of follow-up.

Results

The mean Constant-Murley score increased from 72.6 before surgery to 87.6 at final follow-up. The mean University of California Los Angeles score was 14.1 pre-operatively and 31.6 at final follow-up. Meanwhile, the visual analogue scores were significantly reduced from 3.4 pre-operatively to 1.3 post-operatively. The coracoclavicular distance decreased from 19.4 mm pre-operatively to 10.9 mm at the last follow-up. Post-operative functional and radiological outcomes were significantly improved compared with pre-operative outcomes (P < 0.01). The overall excellent and good result was 35.1% (20/57) and 54.1% (31/57), respectively. At follow-up, the overall complication rate was 15.8% (9/57) including subacromial impingement (three patients), acromial osteolysis (three patients), reduction loss (one patient), acromioclavicular joint osteoarthritis (one patient), and calcification (one patient).

Conclusion

Hook plate fixation was a viable treatment approach, and achieved good clinical outcomes in the treatment of acute acromioclavicular dislocation involving V. But some complications of hook plate fixation should not be ignored.
Lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic: remote coaching in bariatric surgery
Authors: Musella Mario , Martines Gennaro , Berardi Giovanna , Picciariello Arcangelo , Trigiante Giuseppe , Vitiello Antonio
Published: July 2022

Background

The development of fast internet connection has stimulated different types of video-assisted teaching programs. However, a remote mentoring with the proctor not on site has never been reported in bariatric surgery. We described our experiences with remote telementoring for laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy.

Methods

A qualified general surgeon at the beginning of his bariatric practice performed a series of 8 laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomies (LSG) while tutored by an experienced bariatric surgeon connected from a different city through a specific videoconferencing platform. Data on demographics at baseline, operative time, hospital stay, intraoperative early, and late complications were collected.

Results

Mean age and BMI of patients were 36.9 ± 9.6 years old and 41.8 ± 1.7 kg/m2. All procedures were carried out without conversion to open or complications. Mean operative time was 112.4 ± 21.9 min while the hospital stay was 3.5 ± 0.5 days. Operative time significantly decreased after the fourth operation.

Conclusions

Remote coaching appears to be possible and safe for LSG.