bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tabrizicola rongguiensis sp. nov., isolated from the sediment of a river in Ronggui, Foshan city, China
Authors: Xu Jiarou , Deng Tongchu , Huang Youda , Dong Meijun , Yang Shan , Xu Meiying
Published: October 2022

A novel Gram-negative, aerobic, non-spore-forming, non-motile and rod-shaped bacterium, designated J26T, was isolated from the sediment of a river in Ronggui, Foshan city, China. Strain J26T grew optimally at 0 % (w/v) NaCl, pH 6.5–7.5, and 30 °C, and it formed milky white irregular colonies on Reasoner's 2A agar medium. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences showed that strain J26T had the highest similarity to

Tabrizicola aquatica

RCRI19T (97.1 %) and formed a distinct clade in the genus

Tabrizicola

. Cellular components of J26T supported this strain as a member of the genus

Tabrizicola

. The predominant fatty acids were C18 : 1
 ω7c, C18 : 1
 ω7c-11 methyl and C16 : 0. Polar lipids were diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol and phosphorylethanolamine. Ubiquinone Q-10 was the major respiratory quinone, and the DNA G+C content was 64.2 mol%. However, low 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity and average nucleotide identity (73.56 % for ANIb between strain J26T with RCRI19T) demonstrated that strain J26T should be assigned to a novel species. Moreover, the differences between J26T and RCRI19T in terms of physiological and biochemical properties, such as carbon, nitrogen and sulphur metabolism, further supported that J26T represents a novel species, for which the name Tabrizicola rongguiensis sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is J26T (=GDMCC 1.2843T=KCTC 92112T).
Fructobacillus cardui sp. nov., isolated from a thistle (Carduus nutans) flower
Authors: Gallus Marion K. , Beer Irina , Ivleva Natalia P. , Ehrmann Matthias A.
Published: October 2022

A

Fructobacillus

strain was isolated from the flower of a nodding thistle (Carduus nutans) collected in Bavaria, Germany. The strain is Gram-positive, rod-shaped, non-motile, non-sporulating, catalase- and oxidase-negative, and facultatively anaerobic. Growth can be detected at 10–37 °C and pH 4 to 9. The genome size is about 1.56 Mbp and the G+C content is 43.76 mol%. Assignment to the genus

Fructobacillus

was done by average nucleotide identity (ANI), 16S rRNA gene sequence and multilocus sequence analyses. Calculations of ANI and digital DNA–DNA hybridization values indicate a novel species with

Fructobacillus tropaeoli

DSM 23246T (93.58% ANI and 57.9 % dDDH) being its closest relative. Therefore, a new species named Fructobacillus cardui sp. nov. with TMW 2.2452T (=DSM 113480T=CECT 30515T) as type strain is proposed.
High-throughput engineering of cytoplasmic- and nuclear-replicating large dsDNA viruses by CRISPR/Cas9
Authors: López-Muñoz Alberto Domingo , Rastrojo Alberto , Martín Rocío , Alcami Antonio
Published: October 2022

The application of CRISPR/Cas9 to improve genome engineering efficiency for large dsDNA viruses has been extensively described, but a robust and versatile method for high-throughput generation of marker-free recombinants for a desired locus has not yet been reported. Cytoplasmic-replicating viruses use their own repair enzymes for homologous recombination, while nuclear-replicating viruses use the host repair machinery. This is translated into a wide range of Cas9-induced homologous recombination efficiencies, depending on the virus replication compartment and viral/host repair machinery characteristics and accessibility. However, the use of Cas9 as a selection agent to target parental virus genomes robustly improves the selection of desired recombinants across large dsDNA viruses. We used ectromelia virus (ECTV) and herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 1 and 2 to optimize a CRISPR/Cas9 method that can be used versatilely for efficient genome editing and selection of both cytoplasmic- and nuclear-replicating viruses. We performed a genome-wide genetic variant analysis of mutations located at predicted off-target sequences for 20 different recombinants, showing off-target-free accuracy by deep sequencing. Our results support this optimized method as an efficient, accurate and versatile approach to enhance the two critical factors of high-throughput viral genome engineering: generation and colour-based selection of recombinants. This application of CRISPR/Cas9 reduces the time and labour for screening of desired recombinants, allowing for high-throughput generation of large collections of mutant dsDNA viruses for a desired locus, optimally in less than 2 weeks.
Endemic erythromycin resistant Corynebacterium diphtheriae in Vietnam in the 1990s
Authors: Nguyen Thi Nguyen To , Parry Christopher M. , Campbell James I. , Vinh Phat Voong , Kneen Rachel , Baker Stephen
Published: October 2022

Diphtheria is a potentially fatal respiratory disease caused by toxigenic forms of the Gram-positive bacterium

Corynebacterium diphtheriae

. Despite the availability of treatments (antitoxin and antimicrobials) and effective vaccines, the disease still occurs sporadically in low-income countries and in higher income where use of diphtheria vaccine is inconsistent. Diphtheria was highly endemic in Vietnam in the 1990s; here, we aimed to provide some historical context to the circulation of erythromycin resistant organisms in Vietnam during this period. After recovering 54

C

.

diphtheriae

isolated from clinical cases of diphtheria in Ho Chi Minh City between 1992 and 1998 we conducted whole genome sequencing and analysis. Our data outlined substantial genetic diversity among the isolates, illustrated by seven distinct Sequence Types (STs), but punctuated by the sustained circulation of ST67 and ST209. With the exception of one isolate, all sequences contained the tox gene, which was classically located on a corynebacteriophage. All erythromycin resistant isolates, accounting for 13 % of organisms in this study, harboured a novel 18 kb erm(X)-carrying plasmid, which exhibited limited sequence homology to previously described resistance plasmids in

C. diphtheriae

. Our study provides historic context for the circulation of antimicrobial resistant

C. diphtheriae

in Vietnam; these data provide a framework for the current trajectory in global antimicrobial resistance trends.
Effects of return-to-office, public schools reopening, and vaccination mandates on COVID-19 cases among municipal employee residents of New York City
Authors: Greene Sharon K. , Tabaei Bahman P. , Culp Gretchen M. , Levin-Rector Alison , Kishore Nishant , Baumgartner Jennifer
Published: October 2022

Objective

On September 13, 2021, teleworking ended for New York City municipal employees, and Department of Education (DOE) employees returned to reopened schools. On October 29, COVID-19 vaccination was mandated. We assessed these mandates’ short-term effects on disease transmission.

Methods

Using difference-in-difference analyses, we calculated COVID-19 incidence rate ratios (IRR) among residents 18–64 years-old by employment status pre- and post-policy implementation.

Results

IRRs post-(September 23–October 28) vs. pre-(July 5–September 12) return-to-office were similar between office-based City employees and non-City employees. Among DOE employees, the IRR after schools reopened was elevated 28.4% (95% CI: 17.3%–40.3%). Among City employees, the IRR post-(October 29–November 30) vs. pre- (September 23– October 28) vaccination mandate was lowered 20.1% (95% CI: 13.7%–26.0%).

Conclusions

Workforce mandates influenced disease transmission, among other societal effects.
Evaluation of Pregnant and Lactating Women’s Prescriptions for Drug-drug Interactions (DDI) And Contraindications
Authors: Khan Muhammad Sameer Hayat
Published: October 2022

Introduction

In the pregnancy cycle and lactation period women may develop complications. Thus, special attention to pharmacotherapy is necessary, particularly to drug interactions (DDIs) and to the effect of the drugs on the foetus and the mother.

Objective

The aim of this study was to determine the profile of DDIs, and the risk of drugs used during pregnancy and breastfeeding among patients admitted in different hospitals.

Methodology

We conducted an observational and prospective study, including pregnant and breastfeeding women admitted to the different hospitals and clinics of KPK, PUNJAB and SINDH. Online databases were used to identify and classify the DDIs, and the potential risk of the drugs used during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Results

On the basis of subgroups data was evaluated for pregnant and lactating women. 128 (62.0%) of the women involved in their research were pregnant women and 78 (38.0%) of them were lactating women.

In pregnant women number of interactions found were 91 (42.52%) while in lactating women number of interactions found were 123 (57.48%). Total contraindicated drugs prescribed in the prescriptions of pregnant and lactating women were 4 which was 0.48% of the total drugs prescribed from which 3 (75%) were found in prescriptions of pregnant women and 1 (15%) was found in prescription of a lactating women.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated a significant number of drug- drug interactions in both pregnant and lactating mothers due to complexity in prescribed pharmacotherapy. Most of the interactions found in our prescriptions had minor to major severity level. A little percent of contraindicated drugs was also seen which could be easily substituted with safer medicine.
Transmorphic phage-guided systemic delivery ofTNFαgene for the treatment of human paediatric medulloblastoma
Authors: Al-Bahrani Mariam , Asavarut Paladd , Waramit Sajee , Suwan Keittisak , Hajitou Amin
Published: October 2022

Medulloblastoma is the most common childhood brain tumor with an unfavorable prognosis and limited options of harmful treatments that are associated with devastating long-term side effects. Therefore, the development of safe, non-invasive and effective therapeutic approaches is required to save the quality of life of young medulloblastoma survivors. We postulated that therapeutic targeting is a solution. Thus, we used a recently designed tumor-targeted bacteriophage (phage)-derived particle, named transmorphic phage/AAV, TPA, to deliver a transgene expressing the tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) for targeted systemic therapy of medulloblastoma. This vector was engineered to display the double cyclic RGD4C peptide to selectively target tumors after intravenous administration. Furthermore, the lack of native phage tropism to mammalian cells warrants safe and selective systemic delivery to the tumor microenvironment.In vitroRGD4C.TPA.TNFαtreatment of human medulloblastoma cells generated efficient and selectiveTNFαexpression, subsequently triggering cell death. Combination with the chemotherapeutic drug cisplatin, used clinically against medulloblastoma, resulted in augmented effect through the enhancement ofTNFαgene expression. Systemic administration of RGD4C.TPA.TNFαto mice bearing subcutaneous medulloblastoma xenografts resulted in selective tumor homing of these particles, and consequently targeted tumor expression of TNFα, apoptosis, and destruction of the tumor vasculature. Thus, our RGD4C.TPA.TNFαparticle provides selective and efficient systemic delivery ofTNFαto medulloblastoma, yielding a potential TNFα anti-medulloblastoma therapy while sparing healthy tissues from the systemic toxicity of this cytokine.
The Prophylactic and Therapeutic Efficacy of the Broadly Active Antiviral RibonucleosideN4-Hydroxycytidine (EIDD-1931) in a Mouse Model of Lethal Ebola Virus Infection
Authors: Bluemling Gregory R. , Mao Shuli , Natchus Michael G. , Painter Wendy , Mulangu Sabue , Lockwood Mark , De La Rosa Abel , Brasel Trevor , Comer Jason E. , Freiberg Alexander N. , Kolykhalov Alexander A. , Painter George R.
Published: October 2022

The unprecedented magnitude of the 2013-2016 Ebola virus (EBOV) epidemic in West Africa resulted in over 11,000 deaths and spurred an international public health emergency. A second outbreak in 2018-2020 in DRC resulted in an additional >3400 cases and nearly 2300 deaths (WHO Disease Outbreak News: Update 26 June, 2020). These large outbreaks across geographically diverse regions highlight the need for the development of effective oral therapeutic agents that can be easily distributed for self-administration to populations with active disease or at risk of infection. Herein, we report the in vivo efficacy ofN4-hydroxycytidine (EIDD-1931), a broadly active ribonucleoside analog and the active metabolite of the prodrug EIDD-2801 (molnupiravir), in murine models of lethal EBOV infection. Twice daily oral dosing with EIDD-1931 at 200 mg/kg for 7 days, initiated either with a prophylactic dose 2 hours before infection, or as therapeutic treatment starting 6 hours post-infection, resulted in 92-100% survival of mice challenged with lethal doses of EBOV, reduced clinical signs of Ebola virus disease (EVD), reduced serum virus titers, and facilitated weight loss recovery. These results support further investigation of molnupiravir as a potential therapeutic or prophylactic treatment for EVD.
A detailed review and analysis of assembly line rebalancing problems
Authors: Çimen Tolga , Baykasoğlu Adil , Demirkol Akyol Sebnem
Published: October 2022

Purpose

Various approaches and algorithms have been proposed since the 1950s to solve the assembly line (AL) balancing problem. These methods have established an AL configuration from the beginning. However, a prebalanced AL may have to be rebalanced in real life for many reasons, such as changes in the cycle time, production demand, product features or task operation times. This problem has increasingly attracted the interest of scientists in recent years. This study aims to offer a detailed review of the assembly line rebalancing problems (ALRBPs) to provide a better insight into the theoretical and practical applications of ALRBPs.

Design/methodology/approach

A structured database search was conducted, and 41 ALRBP papers published between 2005 and 2022 were classified based on the problem structure, objective functions, problem constraints, reasons for rebalancing, solution approaches and type of data used for solution evaluation. Finally, future research directions were identified and recommended.

Findings

Single model, straight lines with deterministic task times were the most studied type of the ALRBPs. Eighteen percent of the studies solved worker assignment problems together with ALRBP. Product demand and cycle time changes were the leading causes of the rebalancing need. Furthermore, seven future research opportunities were suggested.

Originality/value

Although there are many review studies on AL balancing problems, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, there have been no attempts to review the studies on ALRBPs.
The influence of supply chain immunity perceptions on COVID-19 vaccine willingness in supply chain professionals
Authors: Finkenstadt Daniel Joseph , Handfield Robert
Published: October 2022

Purpose

This study examines the lack of confidence in the actions of the government and pharmaceutical companies during vaccine deployment. The authors introduce the concept of supply chain immunity. The authors test whether the perception of higher vaccine supply chain immunity leads to higher willingness to be vaccinated within the supply chain community.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors utilize factor analysis and item response theory methods to develop a scale for measuring supply chain immunity. The original and psychometrically sound scale is tested via a structural equation model (SEM). Factor analysis and SEM use survey responses from two samples of 125 supply chain executives.

Findings

SEM suggests that supply chain immunity perceptions are a strong predictor of overall supply chain confidence for COVID vaccines. Further, these perceptions, through supply chain confidence, indirectly impact individuals' self-reported willingness to personally accept a vaccine themselves.

Originality/value

This paper presents the concept of supply chain immunity perceptions that have not been used in the medical supply chain literature. This paper presents a first-of-a-kind scale for supply chain immunity perceptions utilizing nascent methods and demonstrates the constructs impact on vaccine program confidence and public willingness to participate.
Implementing business excellence models in Saudi nonprofit organizations and the impact of human resources availability
Authors: Salih Osama , Dolah Rozzeta
Published: October 2022

Purpose

This study aims to help nonprofit organizations (NPOs) implement business excellence models (BEMs). The authors identify and rank critical success factors and barriers to implementing BEMs among NPOs in Saudi Arabia and investigate the impact of human resources availability on BEM implementation in these organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the review of relevant literature, the authors designed a questionnaire completed by 138 NPOs. Factor analysis was used to measure and rank the criticality of success factors and barriers to BEM implementation. A Kruskal–Wallis nonparametric test was conducted to compare answers across groups classified by the number of full-time employees in the organization.

Findings

The study identifies the five most critical success factors for implementing BEMs in Saudi NPOs: data analysis and reporting capabilities, effective organizational communication, implementation strategy and approach, use of benchmarking and adoption of a clear governance framework. The five most critical barriers to implementing BEMs are the lack of a culture of continuous improvement, organizational strategy, qualified employees, customer orientation and clear organizational roles and responsibilities. The number of full-time employees in Saudi NPOs does not significantly impact the success or failure of implementing BEMs.

Originality/value

This paper is a continuation of research that aims to increase BEM adoption among NPOs, including micro-NPOs, in Saudi Arabia and, by extension, other countries.
Evolution of predator–prey interactions during range expansion in an aquatic insect predator
Authors: Carbonell José A. , Wang Ying‐Jie , Sentis Arnaud , Stoks Robby
Published: October 2022

Many ectotherms are shifting their distributions polewards, which has been associated with the evolution of phenotypic traits and their thermal plasticity. Trophic interactions may determine the dynamics and ecological impact of range expansions. However, it is largely unknown how trait evolution in edge populations shapes trophic interactions.

We studied evolutionary changes in the short‐term (functional response) and long‐term predator–prey interactions between an aquatic insect predator (the damselfly Ischnura elegans) and its prey (the water flea Daphnia magna) during the predator's ongoing poleward range expansion in northern Europe.

Using a common‐garden warming experiment at 20 and 24°C we tested for differentiation between predator populations from edge and core regions in metabolic rate and functional response parameters, and used these empirical data to estimate the effects of range expansion on the short‐ and long‐term predator–prey interaction strengths.

Metabolic rates did not differ between populations from edge and core regions nor between rearing temperatures. Functional response parameters and their thermal plasticity showed signals of evolution during the range expansion. Attack rates did not differ between predators from edge and core regions, but only decreased under warming in predators from the edge region. Handling times decreased under warming in predators from the edge region but increased under warming in predators from the core region. While handling times were shorter in predators from the core region at 20°C, these did not differ between regions at 24°C. As a result, the short‐term interaction strength was higher for predators from the core region at 20°C, but not different between regions at 24°C. The predator–prey system from the edge region showed lower long‐term system stability at 20°C, but this region difference disappeared under warming because the edge region stability then increased.

Our results suggest that rapid evolution of functional response parameters during a predator's range expansion reduced the direct feeding impact on its prey and made the predator–prey system from the edge region more unstable, but not under warming. This provides rare evidence that functional responses can rapidly evolve during range expansions, potentially destabilizing food web dynamics.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Estimates of nectar productivity through a simulation approach differ from the nectar produced in 24 h
Authors: Carisio Luca , Schurr Lucie , Masotti Véronique , Porporato Marco , Nève Gabriel , Affre Laurence , Gachet Sophie , Geslin Benoît
Published: October 2022

Nectar is a key resource for numerous insects. Despite its importance, nectar productivity has mainly been assessed using one sampling method, in which the volume of nectar produced by a flower is measured after 24 h of isolation from insects (‘measured 24 h volume’ hereafter). This method assumes that nectar removal by flower‐visiting insects does not affect nectar productivity. Hence, a linearity in the nectar production dynamic is assumed. The effect of nectar removal could lead to an actual volume of nectar produced per flower over 24 h being higher or lower than the measured 24 h volume. Whether the nectar productivity is influenced by insect activity still therefore needs to be assessed.

In a field experiment, we estimated the nectar production dynamics of lavender (Lavandula hybrida) and fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) flowers and tested whether they met the linearity assumption. Then, we developed a simulation model to identify how different scenarios of insect foraging activity: nectar removal rate (average and maximum), and flower‐selection strategies (random selection or rewarding flower selection) alter the estimated 24 h volume of nectar for both crops (‘estimated 24 h volume’ hereafter). Finally, we tested whether the estimated 24 h volume differed from the measured 24 h volume for both crops.

Lavender and fennel showed equal measured 24 h volume of nectar but the produced nectar volume over 6 h suggested that a flower of lavender was more productive than a flower of fennel. Both nectar production dynamics did not meet the assumption of linearity. The simulation models showed that the estimated 24 h volume increased with maximum nectar removal rate for lavender, and the opposite was found for fennel. Rewarding selection always increased the estimated 24 h volume for fennel while for lavender a positive effect was detected at average rate of nectar removal. We found that the estimated 24 h volume was always greater than the measured 24 h volume.

Our model demonstrated that the effect of insect foraging activity on flower's nectar productivity should be considered while estimating the resources produced by plants. As an alternative, measures of produced nectar volume in short time spans may be compared with the measured 24 h volume to check the reliability of this widespread method.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Mapping critical mineral resources using airborne geophysics, 3D joint inversion and geology differentiation: A case study of a buried niobium deposit in the Elk Creek carbonatite, Nebraska, USA
Authors: Wei Xiaolong , Li Kenneth , Sun Jiajia
Published: October 2022

Critical minerals are an integral part of the energy transition because of their important and, sometimes irreplaceable, uses in solar panels, wind turbines, electrical vehicles, etc. Mapping critical mineral resources is, therefore, essential to achieving the net‐zero emission goal by 2050. We present a case study on using airborne geophysical data, borehole and physical property measurements to characterize the Elk Creek Carbonatite complex located in the southeast of Nebraska, USA. It hosts the largest known niobium deposit in the United States and contains a high level of rare earth element mineralization. Our goal is to develop a better understanding of the three‐dimensional structures and composition of the Elk Creek Carbonatite complex as well as its critical mineral resource potential. We performed three‐dimensional joint inversion of the airborne gravity gradiometry and magnetic data to produce structurally similar density and susceptibility models. We carried out geology differentiation, a process of classifying recovered physical property values into distinct units, and obtained a three‐dimensional quasi‐geology model for the Elk Creek Carbonatite complex. We identified 12 geologic units, each of which is characterized by a distinct range of physical property values. Our quasi‐geology model, especially Units 9 and 11, shows a remarkable consistency with the borehole assay measurements. Unit 9 is spatially coincident with the known niobium ore zone. Unit 11 represents a significant volume of highly dense and magnetic materials below the deepest boreholes. These materials are likely associated with unexplored niobium mineralization. Our study demonstrates the added value of three‐dimensional geophysical joint inversions and geology differentiation in the context of critical mineral exploration under a thick sedimentary overburden.
Do functional and phylogenetic nestedness follow the same mechanisms as taxonomic nestedness? Evidence from amphibians in the largest archipelago of China
Authors: Chen Chuanwu , Zhan Chengxiu , Wang Yanping
Published: October 2022

Nested subset pattern (nestedness) has been raised to explain the distribution of species on islands and habitat fragments for over 60 years. However, previous studies on nestedness focused on species richness and composition and overlooked the role of species traits and phylogeny in generating and explaining nestedness.

To address this gap, we sampled amphibians on 37 land‐bridge islands in the largest archipelago of China, the Zhoushan Archipelago, to explore nestedness as well as the underlying causal processes through three facets of diversity, that is, taxonomic, functional and phylogenetic diversity. The taxonomic nestedness was measured through organizing the species incidence matrix to achieve a maximum value, while the functional and phylogenetic nestedness were quantified by incorporating the similarity of species in terms of their ecological traits and phylogeny. We also obtained six island characteristics and seven species traits as predictors of nestedness.

Amphibian metacommunities were significantly nested in these three facets of diversity. When relating different predictors to nestedness, island area, habitat diversity and species traits were highly correlated with taxonomic nestedness. Moreover, island area and habitat diversity significantly influenced functional and phylogenetic nestedness. Therefore, the results support the selective extinction and habitat nestedness hypotheses.

Interestingly, although we did not observe significant influences of island isolation on taxonomic nestedness, functional and phylogenetic diversities were significantly higher than expected when matrices were ordered by increasing distance to mainland. The result suggests that there are more functionally and phylogenetically diverse species on less‐isolated islands, reflecting a selective colonization process overlooked by the traditional analysis of taxonomic nestedness.

Although the three facets of nestedness and underlying processes were largely congruent, we detected the distance‐related functional and phylogenetic nestedness for amphibian assemblages. Therefore, we highlight that a framework that simultaneously considers taxonomic, functional and phylogenetic nestedness can contribute to a complementary understanding of nestedness processes. In addition, it also improves our ability to conserve insular biodiversity from different perspectives.
Centralisation versus regionalisation: Designing the Sixth National Mental Health Plan
Authors: Rosenberg Sebastian , Lawson Kenny , Hickie Ian
Published: October 2022

In response to the recent Productivity Commission report into mental health, the previous Federal Government announced its intention to produce a new national agreement that lays the platform for Australia's sixth national mental health plan. It has been recommended mental health move to a more regional model of governance and planning, away from a centralised, top‐down approach, partly in response to broader reforms affecting health care, and partly in direct response to consistent inquiry evidence that the mental health system remains in crisis. The past 30 years of mental health planning have been centralised. Successive national plans set a broad framework, with real decisions about mental health funding and service allocation made in the health departments of our capital cities. Will the next plan sponsor or inhibit regionality in mental health planning? This paper assesses Australia's historical approach to health planning particularly as it affected mental health and the costs arising. In learning these lessons, we propose the necessary ingredients to facilitate a regional, innovative, and effective approach to decentralised planning, for better mental health outcomes. We cannot afford to replicate the failed planning approaches of the past.
Selective Corporate Restructuring Strategy
Authors: Paterson Sarah , Walters Adrian
Published: October 2022

This article engages with a fundamental, but under‐theorised, fact: that modern UK and US corporate restructuring plans frequently impair only selected creditors, and frequently treat impaired creditors of equal rank differently. It starts from the premise that selectivity and differential treatment, while often justifiable, raise normative questions about the boundaries within which they ought to be permitted. It then reviews selective and differential strategies in three UK restructuring procedures, using US chapter 11 as a comparator. The core contention is that selectivity and differentiation are best regulated by the threat of independent review against a menu of relevant criteria. A menu of criteria is developed, designed to distinguish legitimate and illegitimate uses of selective and/or differential strategies, and these criteria are mapped onto the various UK restructuring law procedures and US chapter 11. The article concludes with some limited suggestions for reform directed mainly at the UK company voluntary arrangement.
Insights into antibiotic use in Brazilian dairy production
Authors: Andretta Milimani , Call Douglas Ruben , Nero Luís Augusto
Published: October 2022

Milk and dairy products are important sources of proteins, fats and vitamins. Although Brazil is the fourth largest milk producer in the world, mastitis, metritis, enteritis and respiratory diseases are still important in this industry. A number of antibiotics are employed for treatment and prophylaxis for these diseases, including cephalosporins, lincosamides, aminoglycosides, penicillins, tetracyclines and macrolides. Vaccination offers an important opportunity to reduce the demand for antibiotics. In this review, we present insights into milk production, antibiotic use in the Brazilian dairy industry, the consequences of these activities and perspectives for the control and surveillance of antibiotic resistance.
A phase II, multicenter study of lazertinib as consolidation therapy in patients with locally advanced, unresectable, EGFR mutation‐positive non‐small cell lung cancer (stage III) who have not progressed following definitive, platinum‐based, chemoradiation therapy (PLATINUM trial)
Authors: Choi Juwhan , Lee Jeong Eun , Choi Chang‐Min , Oh In‐Jae , Lee Kye Young , Jang Tae Won , Lee Seung Hyeun , Kim Eun Young , Park Dong Won , Park Sun Hyo , Lee Sung Yong
Published: October 2022

Introduction

The PACIFIC study demonstrated that durvalumab consolidation therapy significantly improved progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) in patients with unresectable stage III non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) after concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT). However, there was no clinical benefit in both PFS and OS in epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutation‐positive patient groups in a post hoc exploratory analysis. Moreover, the clinical effects of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) in EGFR mutation‐positive stage IV NSCLC were demonstrated to be poor. Personalized treatment according to the mutation status is also required in stage III NSCLC. Lazertinib, a third‐generation EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI), is newly developed and approved for use in Korea.

Methods

This prospective, open, single‐arm, multicenter, phase II clinical trial aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of lazertinib as a consolidative therapy after CCRT treatment in unresectable, EGFR mutation‐positive NSCLC stage III patients. The primary endpoint of this study is PFS, and the secondary endpoints are OS, objective response rate (ORR), duration of response (DoR), time to death or distant metastasis (TTDM), and safety profiles.

Discussion

Our study may extend the indications for third‐generation EGFR‐TKIs to treat patients with stage III NSCLC. Moreover, using this drug to treat stage III NSCLC would emphasize the value of mutation analysis and personalized medicine.
Autophagy activation can partially rescue proteasome dysfunction‐mediated cardiac toxicity
Authors: Papanagnou Eleni‐Dimitra , Gumeni Sentiljana , Sklirou Aimilia D. , Rafeletou Alexandra , Terpos Evangelos , Keklikoglou Kleoniki , Kastritis Efstathios , Stamatelopoulos Kimon , Sykiotis Gerasimos P. , Dimopoulos Meletios A. , Trougakos Ioannis P.
Published: October 2022

The ubiquitin–proteasome pathway and its functional interplay with other proteostatic and/or mitostatic modules are crucial for cell viability, especially in post‐mitotic cells like cardiomyocytes, which are constantly exposed to proteotoxic, metabolic, and mechanical stress. Consistently, treatment of multiple myeloma patients with therapeutic proteasome inhibitors may induce cardiac failure; yet the effects promoted by heart‐targeted proteasome dysfunction are not completely understood. We report here that heart‐targeted proteasome knockdown in the fly experimental model results in increased proteome instability and defective mitostasis, leading to disrupted cardiac activity, systemic toxicity, and reduced longevity. These phenotypes were partially rescued by either heart targeted‐ or by dietary restriction‐mediated activation of autophagy. Supportively, activation of autophagy by Rapamycin or Metformin administration in flies treated with proteasome inhibitors reduced proteome instability, partially restored mitochondrial function, mitigated cardiotoxicity, and improved flies' longevity. These findings suggest that autophagic inducers represent a novel promising intervention against proteasome inhibitor‐induced cardiovascular complications.
Canine transmissible venereal tumor – From general to molecular characteristics: A review
Authors: Faro Thamirys A. S. , de Oliveira Edivaldo H. C.
Published: October 2022

Cancer is a group of complex diseases resulting from the accumulation of genetic and epigenetic changes affecting control and activity of several genes, especially those involved in cell differentiation and growth processes, leading to an abnormal proliferation. When the disease reaches an advanced stage, cancer can lead to metastasis in other organs. Interestingly, recent studies have shown that some types of cancer spread not only through the body, but also can be transmitted among individuals. Therefore, these cancers are known as transmissible tumors. Among the three types of transmissible tumors that occur in nature, the canine transmissible venereal tumor (CTVT) is known as the oldest cancer in the world, since it was originated from a single individual 11 000 years ago. The disease has a worldwide distribution, and its occurrence has been documented since 1810. The CTVT presents three types of cytomorphological classification: lymphocytoid type, mixed type, and plasmacytoid type, the latter being chemoresistant due to overexpression of theABCB1gene, and consequently increase of the P‐glycoprotein. More knowledge about the epidemiology and evolution of CTVT may help to elucidate the pathway and form of the global spread of the disease.
Students' performance in teaching neuroanatomy using traditional and technology‐based methods
Authors: Hadžiomerović Nedžad , Hadžiomerović Amina Isanović , Avdić Rizah , Muminović Adis , Tandir Faruk , Bejdić Pamela , Pandžić Adi
Published: October 2022

The use of digital teaching resources became widespread and very helpful during the COVID‐19 pandemic as an alternative to a traditional course with cadavers. Technologies such as augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), 3D models, video lectures and other online resources enable three‐dimensional visualization of the anatomical structures and allow students to learn more interactively. The aim of this study was to compare students' performance in the traditional anatomical courses in teaching neuroanatomy and technology‐based learning methods such as video lectures, 3D models and 3D printed specimens. Four groups of first‐year students of Veterinary Faculty established for the practical classes during the academic year 2021/2022 took part in this research. The total number of students participating in this research was 72. Each group attended separately the theoretical lecture with a demonstration based on a different technique; the control group used formalized specimens, while the three experimental groups used video lectures, 3D models and 3D printed specimens, respectively. Subsequently, all groups completed the same questionnaire testing their short‐term memory of the neuroanatomical structures. After four weeks students were tested for their long‐term memory of the neuroanatomy lecture with the follow‐up test containing an identical list of questions. The test scores using video lectures and 3D printed models were significantly higher compared with the group that learned in the traditional way. This study suggests that alternative approaches such as technology‐based digital methods can facilitate memorization of anatomical terms and structures in a more interactive and sensory engaging way of learning.
A comparison of early fixation of distal radius fractures versus late corrective osteotomy of distal radius malunion
Authors: Gouk Conor , Bairstow Melissa , Thomas Michael , Tan Ezekiel , Taylor Fraser , Bindra Randy
Published: October 2022

Background

Fractures of the distal radius are common. Closed reduction and moulded casting is often the first line treatment. Malunion after casting is not uncommon and can lead to discussion on acute surgical fixation versus delayed corrective osteotomy if symptomatic. However, it is unclear if late surgery will provide similar outcomes as early intervention.

Methods

We performed a single centre, age matched, case series comparison study, comparing outcomes of patients who had undergone early fixation (ORIF) versus those who had undergone late corrective osteotomy (CO) following distal radius fracture.

Results

Twenty‐six patients were available for review, 13 in each group. Fracture patterns were similar. Reviewing CO versus ORIF; patients achieved a mean DASH; 22 versus 18 (P = 0.355), PRWE; 35 versus 26 (P = 0.237), and VAS 2 versus 2 (P = 0.490). Grip strength was significantly better in those who had undergone ORIF; 2% versus −22% (P ≤ 0.001). Range of motion was generally better with primary fixation but of doubtful clinical importance, reviewing CO versus ORIF; Flexion 46° versus 60° (P = 0.045), extension 55° versus 64° (P = 0.137), pronation 73° versus 85° (P = 0.078), supination 84° versus 84° (P = 0.747), flexion/extension arc 101 versus 124 (P = 0.017), ulnar/radial deviation arc 42° versus 59° (P = 0.01), pronation/supination arc 157° versus 168° (P = 0.118). Ulnar variance was significantly improved in the ORIF group; +0.5 mm versus +2 mm in the CO group (P = 0.023). Radial inclination, radial height and volar tilt were not significantly different between either group.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that patient measured outcome of corrective osteotomy is not inferior to early internal fixation.

Level of Evidence

III (Case Series Comparison).
The association between caffeine and alcohol consumption and IVF/ICSI outcomes: A systematic review and dose–response meta‐analysis
Authors: Rao Wentao , Li Yuying , Li Nijie , Yao Qingyun , Li Yufeng
Published: October 2022

Introduction

The objective of this study was to evaluate the association between caffeine and alcohol consumption and in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) outcomes.

Material and methods

The protocol was registered in the PROSPERO database on May 23, 2021 (registration number: CRD42021256649), and updated on August 4, 2022. Two researchers performed a literature search in the PubMed, Embase, and MEDLINE databases for articles published before July 15, 2022 independently. Studies investigating the association between caffeine and alcohol consumption and IVF/ICSI outcomes were included, and studies reporting the consumption amount were analyzed using a one‐stage robust error meta‐regression‐based method to explore potential dose–response relation. Funnel plot was used to assess publication bias if more than 10 studies were included.

Results

Twelve studies on caffeine consumption and 14 studies on alcohol consumption were included in the systematic review, of which seven and nine were eligible for the meta‐analysis. These studies included 26 922 women and/or their spouses who underwent IVF/ICSI treatment. Women's and men's caffeine consumption was not significantly associated with the pregnancy rate (odds ratio [OR] 0.97, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.85–1.12; OR 0.93, 95% CI 0.75–1.14; respectively) and the live birth rate (OR 0.98, 95% CI 0.89–1.08; OR 0.98, 95% CI 0.86–1.12; respectively) of IVF/ICSI. Maternal alcohol consumption was negatively associated with pregnancy after IVF/ICSI treatment (OR 0.83, 95% CI 0.69–1.01). Paternal alcohol consumption was negatively associated with partner's live birth after IVF/ICSI treatment (OR 0.88, 95% CI 0.79–0.99). Compared with abstainers, the chance of achieving a pregnancy after IVF/ICSI treatment decreased by 7% for women who consumed 84 g alcohol per week (OR 0.93, 95% CI 0.90–0.98), and the chance of partners achieving a live birth decreased by 9% for men who consumed 84 g alcohol per week (OR 0.91, 95% CI 0.88–0.94).

Conclusions

There was no association between caffeine consumption and pregnancy or live birth rate of IVF/ICSI. Women's alcohol consumption was associated with decreased pregnancy rate after IVF/ICSI treatment when weekly consumption was greater than 84 g. Men's alcohol consumption was associated with decreased live birth rate after IVF/ICSI treatment when weekly consumption was greater than 84 g.
Worms and gills, plates and spines: the evolutionary origins and incredible disparity of deuterostomes revealed by fossils, genes, and development
Authors: Nanglu Karma , Cole Selina R. , Wright David F. , Souto Camilla
Published: October 2022

Deuterostomes are the major division of animal life which includes sea stars, acorn worms, and humans, among a wide variety of ecologically and morphologically disparate taxa. However, their early evolution is poorly understood, due in part to their disparity, which makes identifying commonalities difficult, as well as their relatively poor early fossil record. Here, we review the available morphological, palaeontological, developmental, and molecular data to establish a framework for exploring the origins of this important and enigmatic group. Recent fossil discoveries strongly support a vermiform ancestor to the group Hemichordata, and a fusiform active swimmer as ancestor to Chordata. The diverse and anatomically bewildering variety of forms among the early echinoderms show evidence of both bilateral and radial symmetry. We consider four characteristics most critical for understanding the form and function of the last common ancestor to Deuterostomia: Hox gene expression patterns, larval morphology, the capacity for biomineralization, and the morphology of the pharyngeal region. We posit a deuterostome last common ancestor with a similar antero‐posterior gene regulatory system to that found in modern acorn worms and cephalochordates, a simple planktonic larval form, which was later elaborated in the ambulacrarian lineage, the ability to secrete calcium minerals in a limited fashion, and a pharyngeal respiratory region composed of simple pores. This animal was likely to be motile in adult form, as opposed to the sessile origins that have been historically suggested. Recent debates regarding deuterostome monophyly as well as the wide array of deuterostome‐affiliated problematica further suggest the possibility that those features were not only present in the last common ancestor of Deuterostomia, but potentially in the ur‐bilaterian. The morphology and development of the early deuterostomes, therefore, underpin some of the most significant questions in the study of metazoan evolution.
Exploring sibling influences on school‐aged child injuries
Authors: Piotrowski Caroline C. , Warda Lynne
Published: October 2022

Our aim was to investigate if structural and relational characteristics of sibling relationships moderated the association between known injury risk factors and child injuries. Prior to the pandemic, 80 Canadian parents of two school‐aged biological siblings completed standardized questionnaires concerning child risk‐taking behaviours and injury frequency; they also reported on sibling caregiving. Children reported on sibling warmth. Wider age spacing amplified injury risk for younger siblings who engaged in more risk‐taking, while warmer sibling relationships lessened injury risk for younger siblings cared for by older siblings. The importance of incorporating sibling characteristics into family‐centred injury prevention programs was discussed.