bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Complications in Sacroiliac Joint Fusions Using FDA 510(k) Cleared Devices
Authors: Rahl Michael D. , Weistroffer Joseph , Dall Bruce E.
Published: October 2021

Study Design:

This was a level III—retrospective cohort study.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to present an unbiased report of the current rate of severe complications for Federal Drug Administration (FDA) 510(k) cleared sacroiliac joint (SIJ) fusions and investigate the underlying cause of these complications.

Summary of Background Data:

The number of yearly SIJ fusions is on an upward trend. Currently, the most utilized implants to fuse the SIJ have been FDA 510(k) cleared devices. Studies reporting on complications following SIJ fusions are mostly industry-sponsored.

Materials and Methods:

The Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) database was searched for all reported FDA 510(k) cleared SIJ fusion device complications. Several data points were obtained from each report and recorded. The Hospital Inpatient National Statistics and the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) was also searched for the number of SIJ fusions performed each year.

Results:

A search of the MAUDE database returned 1115 reports, with the first report on June 30, 2011, and the last report on July 28, 2020. Patient injury was the most common type of event reported at 97.5% (1080/1107). Death was reported in 3 patients (0.3%). Malposition was the most common device problem at 49.5% (548/1107). The root cause of these events was primarily user error at 58.2% (644/1107). Revision surgery or reoperation occurred in 92.8% (1028/1107) of reports. Data for SIJ fusions through CMS showed an overall trend of increasing yearly SIJ fusions.

Conclusions:

The majority of complications reported to MAUDE for FDA 510(k) cleared SIJ fusion devices are user error due to improper placement of implants. These complications are likely underreported, and there is currently no formal tracking system of total SIJ fusions performed to calculate accurate complication and revision rates. Patient injury and health care costs can potentially be reduced with improved education, training, and oversight, which is currently lacking.
The Effect of Bergamot Essential Oil Aromatherapy on Improving Depressive Mood and Sleep Quality in Postpartum Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: CHEN Mei-Ling , CHEN Yueh-Er , LEE Hui-Fang
Published: October 2021

Background

The postpartum period is a physiologically and psychologically crucial transition phase for every woman who gives birth. Aromatherapy may improve mood and alleviate sleep challenges. However, few randomized controlled clinical trials have focused on the effect of aromatherapy in postpartum women.

Purpose

This study was designed to explore the effect of a bergamot essential oil aromatherapy intervention on depressive mood and sleep quality in postpartum women.

Methods

This randomized controlled trial used consecutive sampling. The participants were all women in a postpartum care center in eastern Taiwan and were randomly assigned to either the experimental (n = 29) or control (n = 31) group. Bergamot essential oil aroma was used in the experimental group, and pure water aroma was used in the control group. The experimental and control interventions were both performed while the participants were residents at the postpartum care center in the afternoon for 15 minutes each day. Before the aroma intervention, pretests were conducted using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale and the Postpartum Sleep Quality Scale. The first and second posttests were conducted using the same two scales at 2 and 4 weeks after the intervention, respectively.

Results

At both the first and second posttests, depressive mood was significantly lower (p < .001) in the experimental group than in the control group, supporting the positive effect of the bergamot essential oil aroma intervention on depressive mood in postpartum women. No significant intergroup difference in sleep quality (p > .05) was observed at either the first or second posttest, indicating an uncertain effect of the bergamot essential oil aroma intervention on sleep quality.

Conclusions/Implications for Practice

The results of this study support the effectiveness of bergamot essential oil aromatherapy in alleviating depressive mood in postpartum women. In addition, the results provide a practical reference for clinical postpartum nursing care.
Functional Status in Older Persons After Hip Fracture Surgery: A Longitudinal Study of Indonesian Patients
Authors: WANTONORO Wantonoro , SHYU Yea-Ing Lotus , CHEN Mei-Ling , TSAI Hsiu-Hsin , CHEN Min-Chi , WU Chi-Chuan
Published: October 2021

Background

Hip fractures are one of the most serious injuries affecting older adults. Evidence-based knowledge regarding the functional status of older persons after hip fracture can provide information critical for developing effective continuous-care and rehabilitation programs.

Purpose

This study was developed to examine the post-hospital-discharge outcome measures and predictors of functional status in older adults in Indonesia after hip fracture surgery.

Methods

The functional status of 109 patients discharged from an orthopedic hospital in Indonesia after hip fracture surgery was evaluated in this prospective cohort study. Functional status was evaluated using measures of physical and independent activities of daily living (PADL and IADL, respectively) at 1, 3, and 6 months postdischarge. Predictors of changes in functional status, including age, length of hospital stay, comorbidity, prefracture walking ability, type of surgery, status of depression and nutrition, type of insurance, and residential status (urban vs. rural), were also examined. Data were analyzed using generalized estimating equations.

Results

Significant improvements in PADL were found at 3 and 6 months, and significant improvements in IADL were found at 6 months. Predictors of poor outcomes found in this study included age, a dependent prefracture walking ability, depression, and having public health insurance.

Conclusions/Implications for Practice

The findings of this study support the effectiveness of using presurgery assessments to identify individuals at a higher postdischarge risk of having poor PADL and IADL outcomes. Home nursing or subacute rehabilitation is recommended to improve and maintain functional status in older persons after hip fracture surgery. In addition, interventions and rehabilitation should take into consideration different recovery periods for PADL and IADL after hospital discharge after hip fracture surgery.
The Effect of Psychosocial Factors and Functional Independence on Poststroke Depressive Symptoms: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: BABKAIR Lisa A. , CHYUN Deborah , DICKSON Victoria Vaughan , ALMEKHLAFI Mohammed A.
Published: October 2021

Background

Stroke is the second leading cause of death and a major cause of serious, long-term disability worldwide. The approximately 15 million people each year who experience stroke are at risk of developing depression. Poststroke depressive symptoms affect one third of survivors of stroke. Patients who develop poststroke depressive symptoms experience decreased functional independence, poor cognitive recovery, decreased quality of life, and increased mortality. Survivors of stroke use social support to deal with stress and defend against the adverse effects of negative stroke outcomes.

Purpose

This study was designed to examine the influence of perceived social support (emotional and informational, tangible, affectionate, and positive social interaction), stress level, and functional independence on depressive symptoms in survivors of stroke.

Methods

A cross-sectional observational study design in outpatient settings and rehabilitation centers was conducted. A convenience sample of 135 survivors of stroke completed the psychometrically valid instruments.

Results

Most of the sample had mild or moderate depressive symptoms (26% and 29%, respectively). The mean score for perceived social support was 77.53 (SD = 21.44) on the Medical Outcomes Study Social Support Survey. A negative association was found between depressive symptoms and the social support total score (r = −.65, p < .01). All of the social support subcategories were negatively associated with depressive symptoms. Hierarchical multiple linear regression showed that social support, stress level, and literacy were associated with depressive symptoms (β = −.31, p < .001; β = .45, p < .001; and β = .16, p = .01, respectively) and partially mediated the association between depressive symptoms and functional independence.

Conclusions/Implications for Practice

Poststroke depressive symptoms are common among survivors of stroke. Social support may improve health by protecting these individuals from the negative outcomes of stroke and enhance their recovery. Future research is required to examine how related interventions improve social support in caregivers and reduce depressive symptoms in stroke survivors.
Mucosal Mast Cell Distribution in the Gastrointestinal Tract of Children
Authors: Ehrsam Christoph , Rechenauer Tobias , Allabauer Ida , Siebenlist Gregor , Kaspar Sonja , Rieger Daniel , Schmid Margit , Rückel Aline , Woelfle Joachim , Hartmann Arndt , Rieker Ralf , Raithel Martin , Geppert Carol , Hoerning André
Published: October 2021

Objectives:

The physiological number and distribution of mast cells (MCs) in the pediatric gastrointestinal (GI) tract is not well defined and reference values of normality are missing. To define a physiological and disease defining cut‐off, a systematic histological exploration of MC distribution from the esophagus to the rectum in healthy as well as in patients with gastrointestinal food allergies (GFA) was performed.

Methods:

Nine pediatric subjects that exhibited unremarkable histopathological evaluations or underwent endoscopy for surveillance reasons after a previous polypectomy of single colonic juvenile polyps served as reference cohort. In all of these subjects, a chronic inflammatory disease (eg, inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease) or allergy was excluded. In addition, a group of 15 patients with gastrointestinal complaints suspected to be caused by a GFA were investigated. Immunohistochemistry was performed from all biopsies using CD117 (c‐Kit) as a reliable marker to identify MCs in the lamina propria.

Results:

There were distinct differences of MC counts in all parts of the pediatric GI tract. The highest counts of MCs in both symptomatic patients and control cohort, were found in the duodenum, terminal ileum, cecum and ascending colon. The lowest counts were found in the esophagus. Significant disparities between GFA and healthy subjects were found in the gastric corpus (22.1 ± 4.0/ high power field [HPF] vs 32.0 ± 10.1/HPF; P = 0.034) and ascending colon (44.8 ± 10.4/HPF vs 60.4 ± 24.3/HPF; P = 0.047).

Conclusions:

Mucosal MC counts in the pediatric GI tract are higher than previously reported, with a considerable overlap between healthy and GFA patients. These results provide detailed information on distribution and numbers of MCs in pediatric allergic patients while allowing estimates of physiological values in childhood for the first time. With regard to diagnostic procedures in GFA further laboratory parameters have to be integrated.
Qualitative inquiry of cancer caregiving during young adulthood: responsibilities, challenges, teamwork, and social support
Authors: Waters Austin R. , Gren Lisa H. , Rogers Charles R. , Kirchhoff Anne C. , Warner Echo L.
Published: October 2021

Background:

Young adult cancer caregivers (YACC) may experience heightened caregiver burden because they take on caregiving during a dynamic time of life. The purpose of this study was to describe YACC experiences, burden, and social support while caregiving.

Methods:

Grounded by the Cancer Family Caregiving Experience Model and the Stress and Coping Social Support theory, semi-structured interviews were conducted with YACC. Inductive analysis was applied to YACC perceptions of caregiving, and deductive analysis to YACC social networks and social support.

Results:

YACC (N = 34) were primarily between 25 to 29 years of age (38.2%), primarily female (70.6%), non-Hispanic White (91.2%), employed (85.3%), college graduates or higher (53.0%), and caring for a spouse/partner (52.9%). Qualitative analysis of interviews with YACC resulted in 2 themes: cancer caregiving during young adulthood and young adult cancer caregiver social support. In the first theme YACC often did not perceive themselves as caregivers, rather their caregiving responsibilities were viewed as an extension of their relationship with the patient. Further YACC reported developmental-specific responsibilities (eg, caring for young children, being unable to take time off while solidifying careers) which often conflicted with their caregiving responsibilities (eg, managing patient's medication, attending appointments) and heightened burden. In response, YACC often formed caregiver teams consisting of family, friends, and community members to care for their loved one. In the second theme YACC most commonly reported receiving emotional and instrumental support from their social network. YACC specifically mentioned their appreciation for emotional support provided by other young adults and instrumental support in the form of financial support.

Conclusions:

YACC faced developmentally specific challenges during caregiving that older adult caregivers may not encounter. The conflict of young adult and caregiving responsibilities resulted in YACC forming caregiver teams. Thus, theoretical approaches to understand and improve caregiver health would benefit from the inclusion of the developmental context of young adulthood. Furthermore, it is crucial that cancer centers tailor supportive services to YACC as the number of young caregivers increases.
Do “central sensitization” questionnaires reflect measures of nociceptive sensitization or psychological constructs? Protocol for a systematic review
Authors: Adams Greig R. , Gandhi Wiebke , Harrison Richard , van Reekum Carien M. , Gilron Ian , Salomons Tim V.
Published: October 2021

Introduction:

Central sensitization (CS) was first defined in animal studies to be increased nociceptive responsiveness due to sensitization of neurons in the central nervous system, usually the result of prolonged nociceptive input or a disease state. Recently, the concept of CS has been adopted in clinical assessments of chronic pain, but its diagnosis in humans has expanded to include the enhancement of a wide range of nociceptive, sensory, and emotional responses. Many poorly understood pain disorders are referred to as “central sensitivity syndrome,” a term associated with a broad range of hypervigilant sensory and emotional responses. Diagnosis often involves a review of medical records and an assessment of behaviour, emotional disposition, and overall sensitivity of a patient. Obviously, these assessments are unable to directly capture the responsiveness of nociceptive neurons. The purpose of this review is to ascertain whether self-report questionnaires associated with central sensitization and the diagnosis of central sensitivity syndrome are associated with enhanced nociceptive responses or whether they more validly measure sensitivity in a broader sense (ie, including emotional responses).

Methods:

Following the PRISMA guidelines, a detailed search of studies that involve the Central Sensitization Inventory or Pain Sensitivity Questionnaire correlated with either nociceptive sensory tests (quantitative sensory testing) or emotional hypervigilance (anxiety, depression, stress, etc) will be conducted on MEDLINE, PsychINFO, and Web of Science.

Perspective:

The review is expected to synthesize correlations between sensitivity questionnaires and nociceptive or emotional sensitivity to determine whether these questionnaires reflect a broadened understanding of the term “central sensitization.”
Japanese translation and linguistic validation of the Prosthetic Limb Users Survey of Mobility (PLUS-M)
Authors: Balkman Geoffrey S. , Samejima Soshi , Fujimoto Kazuki , Hafner Brian J.
Published: October 2021

Background:

Self-report survey instruments can be used to improve clinical care for lower-limb prosthesis users on a global scale by pooling comparable health outcomes data from multiple countries. The language translation process is critical to the quality and comparability of a translated survey instrument.

Objectives:

The goals of this research were to translate the Prosthetic Limb Users Survey of Mobility (PLUS-M) item bank from English to Japanese using established guidelines, and linguistically validate the translated instrument by assessing its clarity, comprehension, and cultural applicability with Japanese prosthesis users.

Study design:

Instrument translation and qualitative interviews.

Methods:

The translation process included two forward translations, reconciliation, backward translation, and review by clinical experts in Japan. Adult lower-limb prosthesis users participated in a linguistic validation study by responding to translated survey items and providing item-by-item feedback through cognitive interviews.

Results:

Following expert reviews, translated items were classified as grammatically and contextually unchanged (n = 21), minor revision required (n = 19), major revision required (n = 3), or removed (n = 1). Cognitive interviews with 10 participants indicated that additional revisions were required (n = 4). Items were revised and retested until it was determined that they were clear, well understood, and culturally applicable.

Conclusions:

Use of a multistep translation and linguistic validation processes resulted in a linguistically comparable Japanese translation of the PLUS-M item bank. Japanese translations of the PLUS-M 7- and 12-item short forms were created for use in clinical practice and research. Availability of these linguistically comparable instruments is expected to facilitate opportunities for international comparison of prosthetic mobility data.
The Outward Curved Concha, an Unfamiliar Congenital Auricular Deformation: A Novel Protocol for Nonsurgical Management
Authors: Olshinka Asaf , Ad-El Dean D. , Yaacobi Dafna (Shilo)
Published: October 2021

Anomalies present in about 30% of newborn ears; 15% to 20% of them are permanent. Malformations can be treated solely surgically; however, deformations, when promptly diagnosed, can be treated with nonsurgical methods, such as splinting and molding. The deformity of an outward curved concha is not only an aesthetic issue, but may confer functional problems that impair hearing and hearing aid usage. The goal of this report was to present this unique anomaly and our novel noninvasive treatment protocol for its management. Our cohort comprised 10 newborns treated for outward curved concha during 2018 and 2019. The patients underwent nonsurgical treatment using the EarWell system. In some patients, the management was followed by molding and taping to achieve the best effect. Treatment for all the patients began before age 3 weeks (mean, 2 weeks). Treatment duration was 5.2 weeks, on average. Nine patients did not show any adverse effects. The majority of parents expressed satisfaction with the aesthetic result; 70% were extremely pleased. Early initiation of the treatment-protocol for outward curved concha deformation yielded excellent and timely results in the infants, without the necessity of an invasive procedure.
Influence of 5-HTTLPR polymorphism on postpartum depressive and posttraumatic symptoms
Authors: Landoni Marta , Missaglia Sara , Tavian Daniela , Ionio Chiara , Di Blasio Paola
Published: October 2021

Introduction

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a multifactor disorder caused by psychological, social, and also biological factors. 5-HTTLPR polymorphism in the promoter region of serotonin transporter gene seems to influence PPD onset. In this study, we examined the effect of 5-HTTLPR polymorphism on prenatal and postnatal symptoms of depression and posttraumatic stress in women.

Methods

A longitudinal design with three points – time 1 (32–40 weeks gestation); time 2 (2 or 3 weeks after birth), and time 3 (3 months after birth) – was made. A total of 141 women were recruited during childbirth preparation courses. At time 1, women completed the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and the Los Angeles Symptoms Checklist (LASC). At time 2, they fulfilled BDI and Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EDPS), LASC and the Perinatal Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) Questionnaire (PPQ); midwives and nurses collected biological test tubes by blood sampling for the genetic analysis. At time 3, the women were reassessed for BDI, LASC, EDPS, and PPQs. Analysis of variance and moderation analysis were used to correlate genotype and psychological investigations.

Results

Results showed that, compared with LL/LS genotypes, SS genotype moderated cognitive depressive symptoms onset at T2 and T3. Moreover, this genotype correlated, directly or indirectly, with PTSD postpartum aspects (re-experience, avoidance, and hyperarousal).

Discussion

Findings revealed that a lower expression of serotonin transporter gene, associated with SS genotype, seems to render women more vulnerable to depressive and PTSD symptoms after childbirth.
Genetic characterization of co-trimoxazole non-susceptible Streptococcus pneumoniae isolates from Indonesia
Authors: Safari Dodi , Putri Hanifah Fajri Maharani , Bimantari Arrayan , Paramaiswari Wisiva Tofriska , Tafroji Wisnu , Khoeri Miftahuddin Majid , Salsabila Korrie
Published: October 2021

We investigated the genetic variation of folA and folP genes encoding dihydropteroate synthase (DHPS) and dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) enzymes amongst trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (co-trimoxazole) non-susceptible

Streptococcus pneumoniae

isolated from the Indonesian population. Archived

S. pneumoniae

isolates were screened for the presence and analysis of folA and folP genes using the polymerase chain reaction sequencing method. We found that 80 % of co-trimoxazole non-susceptible isolates (n=30/39) showed a 6 bp insertion in the sulphonamide-binding site of DHPS. The Asp-92-Ala and Ile-100-Leu substitutions were more common on DHFR (42 %; 22/53) followed by the Asp-92–Ala, Glu-94–Asp and Ile-100–Leu substitutions (32 %; 17/53). The combination of the Ile-100–Leu substitution at the DHFR region and the 6 bp insertion was the most dominant combination among isolates having both folA and folP genes.
A Prion that regulates genome diversification
Authors: Byers James S. , Futia Raymond A. , Elgort Alex Van , Lozanoski Thomas M. , Garcia David M. , Jarosz Daniel F.
Published: October 2021

Epigenetic mechanisms mediate diverse gene expression programs in growth and development. Here we report a protein-based epigenetic element, a prion, formed by the conserved DNA helicase Mph1/FANCM. [MIX+] is a cytoplasmically inherited state with propagation driven by the non-amyloid prion templating of Mph1. [MIX+] provides resistance to DNA damage, a gain-of-function trait that requires helicase activity. [MIX+] reduces mitotic mutation rates, but promotes meiotic crossovers, driving measurable phenotypic diversification in wild outcrosses. Remarkably, [MIX+] can be induced by DNA-damaging stresses in which it is beneficial. Thus, [MIX+] fuels a quasi-Lamarckian form of inheritance that promotes survival of the current generation and diversification of the next.
Digital medical education and students’ mental health: effects of the COVID-19 pandemic in Germany
Authors: Michaeli Daniel , Keough Gregory , Strotzer Quirin , Michaeli Thomas
Published: October 2021

Purpose

Medical education was challenged and re-imagined during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aims to examine the consequent changes in medical school curricula alongside students’ mental and physical health.

Design/methodology/approach

It is observed that 549 medical students (response rate: 79.7%) from 31 of 37 public medical schools in Germany completed a cross-sectional online survey. Students answered questions regarding teaching, internet use, COVID-19 and well-being. A multivariate logistic regression examined factors associated with depressed mood, insomnia and headache.

Findings

Academic teaching moved to a virtual environment (91%), whilst practical activities were suspended or cancelled (88%). Virtual teaching modality, quantity and quality were well-perceived, yet 35% of respondents were dissatisfied with their internet connection. Consequently, students worried about the pandemic’s adverse effect on their quality as a doctor (60%) and thought about postponing their studies (30%). Students were frequently engaged in the treatment of COVID-19 patients (36%). Daily screen time was significantly associated with depressed mood, insomnia and headache. Negative changes in mental and physical health were frequently observed.

Research limitations/implications

Students’ experience with digital education during the COVID-19 pandemic was mixed. Whilst teaching modality, quantity and quality were well-perceived, students’ mental and physical health deteriorated. Further longitudinal studies investigating the impact of digital education on students’ well-being are necessary.

Practical implications

Besides teaching, faculties must quickly digitalize and strengthen social communities and offer targeted support services for students.

Originality/value

This is the first cross-sectional survey exploring medical students’ experience with virtual medical teaching alongside their mental and physical well-being in Germany.
Viewpoint: a transformative view for small service firms in the new Latin American service marketplace
Authors: Bianchi Constanza
Published: October 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to propose a framework of transformative strategies across the different levels of the service ecosystem for the recovery, well-being and inclusion of Latin American small service firms in the new service marketplace.

Design/methodology/approach

The viewpoint presents an overview of the transformative strategies that can be developed by ecosystem actors for Latin American small service firms in the new marketplace, due to the pandemic crisis. The data are based on personal research and secondary industry reports.

Findings

The pandemic crisis has had an unpresented effect on the service industry in Latin America, particularly on small service firms, which are largely informal. This viewpoint provides themes for timely and actionable transformative strategies for the service industry ecosystem in this region and proposes research avenues for service scholars.

Research limitations/implications

This viewpoint provides implications and ideas for future research on transformative actions for a new services marketplace in Latin America.

Originality/value

This viewpoint the first to propose transformative ecosystem strategies for recovery, well-being and inclusion of small service firms in the new service marketplace in Latin America.
Inhibitory control, exploration behaviour and manipulated ecological context are associated with foraging flexibility in the great tit
Authors: Coomes Jenny R. , Davidson Gabrielle L. , Reichert Michael S. , Kulahci Ipek G. , Troisi Camille A. , Quinn John L.
Published: October 2021

Organisms are constantly under selection to respond effectively to diverse, sometimes rapid, changes in their environment, but not all individuals are equally plastic in their behaviour. Although cognitive processes and personality are expected to influence individual behavioural plasticity, the effects reported are highly inconsistent, which we hypothesise is because ecological context is usually not considered.

We explored how one type of behavioural plasticity, foraging flexibility, was associated with inhibitory control (assayed using a detour‐reaching task) and exploration behaviour in a novel environment (a trait closely linked to the fast–slow personality axis). We investigated how these effects varied across two experimentally manipulated ecological contexts—food value and predation risk.

In the first phase of the experiment, we trained great tits Parus major to retrieve high value (preferred) food that was hidden in sand so that this became the familiar food source. In the second phase, we offered them the same familiar hidden food at the same time as a new alternative option that was visible on the surface, which was either high or low value, and under either high or low perceived predation risk. Foraging flexibility was defined as the proportion of choices made during 4‐min trials that were for the new alternative food source.

Our assays captured consistent differences among individuals in foraging flexibility. Inhibitory control was associated with foraging flexibility—birds with high inhibitory control were more flexible when the alternative food was of high value, suggesting they inhibited the urge to select the familiar food and instead selected the new food option. Exploration behaviour also predicted flexibility—fast explorers were more flexible, supporting the information‐gathering hypothesis. This tendency was especially strong under high predation risk, suggesting risk aversion also influenced the observed flexibility because fast explorers are risk prone and the new unfamiliar food was perceived to be the risky option. Thus, both behaviours predicted flexibility, and these links were at least partly dependent on ecological conditions.

Our results demonstrate that an executive cognitive function (inhibitory control) and a behavioural assay of a well‐known personality axis are both associated with individual variation in the plasticity of a key functional behaviour. That their effects on foraging flexibility were primarily observed as interactions with food value or predation risk treatments also suggest that the population‐level consequences of some behavioural mechanisms may only be revealed across key ecological conditions.
The costs of administering a wealth tax
Authors: Burgherr David
Published: October 2021

I assess the costs of administering a wealth tax for taxpayers and the tax authority in the UK context, based on evidence from existing UK taxes on wealth and comprehensive wealth taxes that have been imposed in other countries. My central estimate is that a well‐designed wealth tax generates costs to taxpayers of 0.1 per cent of taxable wealth and costs to the tax authority of 0.05 per cent of taxable wealth. I discuss how these costs depend on design choices. My findings can inform revenue modelling and help to evaluate the desirability of wealth taxes.
Gender, coauthorship, and academic outcomes in economics
Authors: Hussey Andrew , Murray Sheena , Stock Wendy
Published: October 2021

We examine determinants of coauthorship behavior and how coauthorship relates to research productivity and other career outcomes for academic economists. We supplement a unique dataset containing economics Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) graduates' demographic, PhD program, advisor, and other characteristics with measures of their coauthorship behavior and research productivity. Significant gender differences in the formation and effects of coauthorship are found. Students with female advisors and women from lower‐ranked programs had a higher propensity to coauthor, and coauthorship is associated with more research output and more publications in top economics journals. However, women received less credit toward tenure when coauthoring with men or advisors.
Is the value effect due to M&A deals? Evidence from the Italian stock market
Authors: Roma Antonio
Published: October 2021

This paper empirically characterises the value effect detected in the Italian stock market for the sample period 2000–2018 based on the value premium offered for the acquisition of a value stock. Bids on value stock (as opposed to bids on growth stocks) generate a large and statistically significant average return on the holding of the target in the deal window. Returns on target stocks for a bid make up to two‐thirds of the average return on the long side of the Fama and French high book‐to‐market minus low book‐to‐market (HML) portfolio. The other significant component of the average return of HML is due to short‐selling small‐growth stocks. As evidenced in previous literature, this is often difficult to implement from a practical point of view.
Transcriptomic profiling of recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa wounded skin highlights drug repurposing opportunities to improve wound healing
Authors: Onoufriadis Alexandros , Proudfoot Laura E. , Ainali Chrysanthi , Torre Denis , Papanikolaou Maria , Rayinda Tuntas , Rashidghamat Ellie , Danarti Retno , Mellerio Jemima E. , Ma’ayan Avi , McGrath John A.
Published: October 2021

Chronic wounds present a major disease burden in people with recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB), an inherited blistering skin disorder caused by mutations in COL7A1 encoding type VII collagen, the major component of anchoring fibrils at the dermal‐epidermal junction. Treatment of RDEB wounds is mostly symptomatic, and there is considerable unmet need in trying to improve and accelerate wound healing. In this study, we defined transcriptomic profiles and gene pathways in RDEB wounds and compared these to intact skin in RDEB and healthy control subjects. We then used a reverse transcriptomics approach to discover drugs or compounds, which might restore RDEB wound profiles towards intact skin. Differential expression analysis identified >2000 differences between RDEB wounds and intact skin, with RDEB wounds displaying aberrant cytokine‐cytokine interactions, Toll‐like receptor signalling, and JAK‐STAT signalling pathways. In‐silico prediction for compounds that reverse gene expression signatures highlighted methotrexate as a leading candidate. Overall, this study provides insight into the molecular profiles of RDEB wounds and underscores the possible clinical value of reverse transcriptomics data analysis in RDEB, and the potential of this approach in discovering or repurposing drugs for other diseases.
Cytosolic localization and in vitro assembly of human de novo thymidylate synthesis complex
Authors: Spizzichino Sharon , Boi Dalila , Boumis Giovanna , Lucchi Roberta , Liberati Francesca Romana , Capelli Davide , Montanari Roberta , Pochetti Giorgio , Piacentini Roberta , Parisi Giacomo , Paone Alessio , Rinaldo Serena , Contestabile Roberto , Tramonti Angela , Paiardini Alessandro , Giardina Giorgio , Cutruzzolà Francesca
Published: October 2021

De novo thymidylate synthesis is a crucial pathway for normal and cancer cells. Deoxythymidine monophosphate (dTMP) is synthesized by the combined action of three enzymes: serine hydroxymethyltransferase (SHMT1), dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) and thymidylate synthase (TYMS), with the latter two being targets of widely used chemotherapeutics such as antifolates and 5‐fluorouracil. These proteins translocate to the nucleus after SUMOylation and are suggested to assemble in this compartment into the thymidylate synthesis complex. We report the intracellular dynamics of the complex in cancer cells by an in situ proximity ligation assay, showing that it is also detected in the cytoplasm. This result indicates that the role of the thymidylate synthesis complex assembly may go beyond dTMP synthesis. We have successfully assembled the dTMP synthesis complex in vitro, employing tetrameric SHMT1 and a bifunctional chimeric enzyme comprising human thymidylate synthase and dihydrofolate reductase. We show that the SHMT1 tetrameric state is required for efficient complex assembly, indicating that this aggregation state is evolutionarily selected in eukaryotes to optimize protein–protein interactions. Lastly, our results regarding the activity of the complete thymidylate cycle in vitro may provide a useful tool with respect to developing drugs targeting the entire complex instead of the individual components.
When I say … Social
Authors: Guckian Jonathan , Rees Eliot L.
Published: October 2021

When the authors say "social" within medical education, they mean learning and working cultures that foster companionship, distribute capital, and facilitate communication. This piece discusses the impact of imbalance across these factors.
Validity and reliability of immunochromatographic IgM/IgG rapid tests for COVID‐19 salivary diagnosis
Authors: Vilela Ana Carolina Serafim , Costa Camila Alves , Oliveira Suzane Aparecida , Souza Menira Borges Lima Dias , Fiaccadori Fabiola Souza , Leles Cláudio Rodrigues , Costa Nádia Lago
Published: October 2021

Objectives

To assess the accuracy of three immunochromatographic rapid tests for salivary detection of immunoglobulin M (IgM) and immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) antigens and the reliability of these tests comparing saliva with plasma samples.

Materials and Methods

Plasma and saliva samples from 62 patients diagnosed with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) and 20 healthy volunteers were assayed. IgM/IgG antibody against SARS‐COV‐2 was detected using three immunochromatographic rapid tests and compared with real‐time reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR).

Results

The tests’ overall accuracy for detecting anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 antibodies ranged from 75.6 to 79.3 for saliva and 86.6–87.8 for plasma tests. The sensitivity of saliva and plasma tests increased with the severity of COVID‐19 signs and symptoms. The chance of a positive plasma test in participants with a positive qRT‐PCR test was 2.27 greater than a positive saliva test.

Conclusions

Although rapid immunochromatographic tests are more accurate using plasma than saliva, which was expected considering its original use, our findings support the use of saliva as a straightforward supplementary method to assess seroconversion in patients with COVID‐19, with important sensitivity and sensibility, especially in severe and critical cases.
Mutant combinations of lycopene ɛ‐cyclase and β‐carotene hydroxylase 2 homoeologs increased β‐carotene accumulation in endosperm of tetraploid wheat (Triticum turgidum L.) grains
Authors: Yu Shu , Li Michelle , Dubcovsky Jorge , Tian Li
Published: October 2021

Grains of tetraploid wheat (Triticum turgidum L.) mainly accumulate the non‐provitamin A carotenoid lutein—with low natural variation in provitamin A β‐carotene in wheat accessions necessitating alternative strategies for provitamin A biofortification. Lycopene ɛ‐cyclase (LCYe) and β‐carotene hydroxylase (HYD) function in diverting carbons from β‐carotene to lutein biosynthesis and catalyzing the turnover of β‐carotene to xanthophylls, respectively. However, the contribution of LCYe and HYD gene homoeologs to carotenoid metabolism and how they can be manipulated to increase β‐carotene in tetraploid wheat endosperm (flour) is currently unclear. We isolated loss‐of‐function Targeting Induced Local Lesions in Genomes (TILLING) mutants of LCYe and HYD2 homoeologs and generated higher order mutant combinations of lcye‐A, lcye‐B, hyd‐A2, and hyd‐B2. Hyd‐A2 hyd‐B2, lcye‐A hyd‐A2 hyd‐B2, lcye‐B hyd‐A2 hyd‐B2, and lcye‐A lcye‐B hyd‐A2 hyd‐B2 achieved significantly increased β‐carotene in endosperm, with lcye‐A hyd‐A2 hyd‐B2 exhibiting comparable photosynthetic performance and light response to control plants. Comparative analysis of carotenoid profiles suggests that eliminating HYD2 homoeologs is sufficient to prevent β‐carotene conversion to xanthophylls in the endosperm without compromising xanthophyll production in leaves, and that β‐carotene and its derived xanthophylls are likely subject to differential catalysis mechanisms in vegetative tissues and grains. Carotenoid and gene expression analyses also suggest that the very low LCYe‐B expression in endosperm is adequate for lutein production in the absence of LCYe‐A. These results demonstrate the success of provitamin A biofortification using TILLING mutants while also providing a roadmap for guiding a gene editing‐based approach in hexaploid wheat.
Advanced analytical methods to assess physical activity behavior using accelerometer time series: A scoping review
Authors: Backes Anne , Gupta Tripti , Schmitz Susanne , Fagherazzi Guy , van Hees Vincent , Malisoux Laurent
Published: October 2021

Physical activity (PA) is a complex human behavior, which implies that multiple dimensions need to be taken into account in order to reveal a complete picture of the PA behavior profile of an individual. This scoping review aimed to map advanced analytical methods and their summary variables, hereinafter referred to as wearable‐specific indicators of PA behavior (WIPAB), used to assess PA behavior. The strengths and limitations of those indicators as well as potential associations with certain health‐related factors were also investigated. Three databases (MEDLINE, Embase, and Web of Science) were screened for articles published in English between January 2010 and April 2020. Articles, which assessed the PA behavior, gathered objective measures of PA using tri‐axial accelerometers, and investigated WIPAB, were selected. All studies reporting WIPAB in the context of PA monitoring were synthesized and presented in four summary tables: study characteristics, details of the WIPAB, strengths, and limitations, and measures of association between those indicators and health‐related factors. In total, 7247 records were identified, of which 24 articles were included after assessing titles, abstracts, and full texts. Thirteen WIPAB were identified, which can be classified into three different categories specifically focusing on (1) the activity intensity distribution, (2) activity accumulation, and (3) the temporal correlation and regularity of the acceleration signal. Only five of the thirteen WIPAB identified in this review have been used in the literature so far to investigate the relationship between PA behavior and health, while they may provide useful additional information to the conventional PA variables.
Making Sense of Muscle Protein Synthesis: A Focus on Muscle Growth During Resistance Training
Authors: Witard Oliver C. , Bannock Laurent , Tipton Kevin D.
Published: October 2021

The acute response of muscle protein synthesis (MPS) to resistance exercise and nutrition is often used to inform recommendations for exercise programming and dietary interventions, particularly protein nutrition, to support and enhance muscle growth with training. Those recommendations are worthwhile only if there is a predictive relationship between the acute response of MPS and subsequent muscle hypertrophy during resistance exercise training. The metabolic basis for muscle hypertrophy is the dynamic balance between the synthesis and degradation of myofibrillar proteins in muscle. There is ample evidence that the process of MPS is much more responsive to exercise and nutrition interventions than muscle protein breakdown. Thus, it is intuitively satisfying to translate the acute changes in MPS to muscle hypertrophy with training over a longer time frame. Our aim is to examine and critically evaluate the strength and nature of this relationship. Moreover, we examine the methodological and physiological factors related to measurement of MPS and changes in muscle hypertrophy that contribute to uncertainty regarding this relationship. Finally, we attempt to offer recommendations for practical and contextually relevant application of the information available from studies of the acute response of MPS to optimize muscle hypertrophy with training.
Gait Retraining With Visual Biofeedback Reduces Rearfoot Pressure and Foot Pronation in Recreational Runners
Authors: da Silva Neto Warlindo Carneiro , Lopes Alexandre Dias , Ribeiro Ana Paula
Published: October 2021

Context: Running is a popular sport globally. Previous studies have used a gait retraining program to successfully lower impact loading, which has been associated with lower injury rates in recreational runners. However, there is an absence of studies on the effect of this training program on the plantar pressure distribution pattern during running. Objective: To investigate the short-term effect of a gait retraining strategy that uses visual biofeedback on the plantar pressure distribution pattern and foot posture in recreational runners. Design: Randomized controlled trial. Setting: Biomechanics laboratory. Participants: Twenty-four recreational runners were evaluated (n = 12 gait retraining group and n = 12 control group). Intervention: Those in the gait retraining group underwent a 2-week program (4 sessions/wk, 30 min/session, and 8 sessions). The participants in the control group were also invited to the laboratory (8 times in 2 wk), but no feedback on their running biomechanics was provided. Main Outcome Measures: The primary outcome measures were plantar pressure distribution and plantar arch index using a pressure platform. The secondary outcome measure was the foot posture index. Results: The gait retraining program with visual biofeedback was effective in reducing medial and lateral rearfoot plantar pressure after intervention and when compared with the control group. In the static condition, the pressure peak and maximum force on the forefoot and midfoot were reduced, and arch index was increased after intervention. After static training intervention, the foot posture index showed a decrease in the foot pronation. Conclusions: A 2-week gait retraining program with visual biofeedback was effective in lowering rearfoot plantar pressure, favoring better support of the arch index in recreational runners. In addition, static training was effective in reducing foot pronation. Most importantly, these observations will help healthcare professionals understand the importance of a gait retraining program with visual biofeedback to improve plantar loading and pronation during rehabilitation.
Semirapid Detection of Piperacillin/Tazobactam Resistance and Extended-Spectrum Resistance to β-Lactams/β-Lactamase Inhibitors in Clinical Isolates of Escherichia coli
Authors: Rodríguez-Villodres Ángel , Gutiérrez Linares Alicia , Gálvez-Benitez Lydia , Pachón Jerónimo , Lepe José Antonio , Smani Younes
Published: October 2021

TZP is a BL/BLI recommended for the empirical treatment of severe infections. The excessive use of TZP has promoted the emergence of TZP-resistant
Escherichia coli
isolates.
Sirtuin 3 overexpression preserves maximal sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum calcium ATPase activity in the skeletal muscle of mice subjected to high fat – high sucrose feeding
Authors: Oldfield Christopher J. , Moffatt Teri L. , Dolinsky Vernon W. , Duhamel Todd A.
Published: October 2021

Sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum calcium (Ca2+) ATPase (SERCA) transports Ca2+ in muscle. Impaired SERCA activity may contribute to diabetic myopathy. Sirtuin (SIRT) 3 regulates muscle metabolism and function; however, it is unknown if SIRT3 regulates muscle SERCA activity or acetylation. We determined if SIRT3 overexpression enhances SERCA activity in mouse gastrocnemius muscle and if SIRT3 overexpression preserves gastrocnemius SERCA activity in a model of type 2 diabetes, induced by high fat – high sucrose (HFHS) feeding. We also determined if the acetylation status of SERCA proteins in mouse gastrocnemius is altered by SIRT3 overexpression or HFHS feeding. Wild-type (WT) and SIRT3 transgenic (SIRT3TG) mice, overexpressing SIRT3 in skeletal muscle, were fed a standard or HFHS diet for 4 months. SIRT3TG and WT mice developed obesity and glucose intolerance after 4 months of HFHS feeding. SERCA Vmax was higher in gastrocnemius of SIRT3TG mice compared with WT mice. HFHS-fed mice had lower SERCA1a protein levels and lower SERCA Vmax in their gastrocnemius than control-fed mice. The decrease in SERCA Vmax in gastrocnemius muscle due to HFHS feeding was attenuated by SIRT3 overexpression in HFHS-fed SIRT3TG mice. SERCA1a and SERCA2a acetylation in mouse gastrocnemius was not altered by genotype or diet. These findings suggest SIRT3 overexpression improves SERCA function in mouse skeletal muscle.