bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel exported bifunctional fusion enzymes with chorismate mutase and cyclohexadienyl dehydratase activity: shikimate pathway enzymes teamed up in no man’s land
Authors: Stocker Christian , Khatanbaatar Tamjidmaa , Würth-Roderer Kathrin , Cordara Gabriele , Krengel Ute , Kast Peter
Published: March 2023

Chorismate mutase (CM) and cyclohexadienyl dehydratase (CDT) catalyze two subsequent reactions in the intracellular biosynthesis of phenylalanine. Surprisingly, exported CMs and CDTs exist in bacterial pathogens. Here, we report the discovery of novel and extremely rare exported bifunctional fusion enzymes, consisting of fused CM and CDT domains. Such enzymes were found in only nine bacterial species belonging to non-pathogenic γ- or β-proteobacteria. In γ-proteobacterial fusion enzymes, the CM domain is N-terminal to the CDT domain, whereas in β-proteobacteria the order is inversed. The CM domains share 15-20% sequence identity with the AroQγclass CM holotype ofMycobacterium tuberculosis(*MtCM), and the CDT domains 40-60% identity with the exported monofunctional enzyme ofPseudomonas aeruginosa(PheC).In vitrokinetics revealed aKm<7 µM, much lower than for *MtCM, whereas kinetic parameters are similar for CDT domains and PheC. There is no feedback inhibition of CM or CDT by the pathway’s end product Phe, and no catalytic benefit of the domain fusion compared to engineered single-domain constructs. The fusion enzymes ofAequoribacter fuscus,Janthinobacteriumsp. HH01, andDuganella sacchariwere crystallized and their structures refined to 1.6, 1.7, and 2.4 Å resolution, respectively. Neither the crystal structures nor size-exclusion chromatography show evidence for substrate channeling or higher oligomeric structure that could account for cooperation of CM and CDT active sites. The genetic neighborhood with genes encoding transporter and substrate binding proteins suggests that these exported bifunctional fusion enzymes may participate in signaling systems rather than in the biosynthesis of Phe.
Frequency-coded patterns of sympathetic vasomotor activity are differentially evoked by the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus in the Goldblatt hypertension model
Authors: Faber Jean , Milanez Maycon I. O. , Simões Cristiano S. , Campos Ruy R.
Published: March 2023

The activation of specific brain areas involved in regulating the vasomotor sympathetic activity can lead to distinct effects in the postganglionic nerves in both physiological and pathological conditions, suggesting that the sympathetic vasomotor activity is differentially coded depending on the nerve outflow and the target organs. Previous studies investigating such patterns have mostly focused on the global energy of the signal. However, recent evidence has suggested that relevant information is coded in the power distribution along the frequency range. Disturbing the sympathoexcitatory vasomotor tone in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVN) allows to investigate the sympathetic nerve activity in overloaded conditions in both hypertensive and control animals. By disinhibiting the PVN through the microinjection of bicuculline, an antagonist of γ-aminobutyric acid type A (GABAa) receptors, in the Goldblatt (2K1C) rat model of hypertension we addressed the territorially differential changes in the frequency parameters of the renal and splanchnic sympathetic nerve activity (rSNA and sSNA, respectively). We also tested the effect of the systemic administration of losartan, an antagonist of the angiotensin II type 1 receptors (AT1), in the attenuation of the increased rSNA and sSNA in 2K1C rats, once these changes are reported to be dependent on the AT1 activation in the Goldblatt model. Our results revealed that each nerve activity presents its own electrophysiological pattern of frequency-coded rhythm in each group, in basal condition and after bicuculline microinjection, but with no significant differences regarding total power comparison among groups. Additionally, the 2K1C animals treated with losartan showed no decrease in the hypertensive response triggered by the GABAa antagonism when compared to the non-treated 2K1C group. However, their spectral patterns of sympathetic nerve activity were different from the other two groups, suggesting that the systemic blockade of AT1 receptors does not totally recover the basal levels of neither the autonomic symptoms nor the electrophysiological patterns in the Goldblatt model, but act on their spectral frequency distribution. These results suggest that the differential responses evoked by the PVN were preferentially coded in frequency of vasomotor sympathetic responses, indicating that the PVN distinctly modulated each rhythmic activity.

Financial Support – FAPESP (2019/25295-0)
Spatially aware self-representation learning for tissue structure characterization and spatial functional genes identification
Authors: Zhang Chuanchao , Li Xinxing , Huang Wendong , Wang Lequn , Shi Qianqian
Published: March 2023

Spatially resolved transcriptomics (SRT) enable the comprehensive characterization of transcriptomic profiles in the context of tissue microenvironments. Unveiling spatial transcriptional heterogeneity needs to effectively incorporate spatial information accounting for the substantial spatial correlation of expression measurements. Here, we develop a computational method, SpaSRL (spatially aware self-representation learning), which flexibly enhances and decodes spatial transcriptional signals to simultaneously achieve spatial domain detection and spatial functional genes identification. This novel tunable spatially aware strategy of SpaSRL not only balances spatial and transcriptional coherence for the two tasks, but also can transfer spatial correlation constraint between them based on a unified model. Additionally, this joint analysis by SpaSRL deciphers accurate and fine-grained tissue structures and ensures the effective extraction of biologically informative genes underlying spatial architecture. We verified the superiority of SpaSRL on spatial domain detection, spatial functional genes identification and data denoising using multiple SRT datasets obtained by different platforms and tissue sections. Our results illustrate SpaSRL’s utility in flexible integration of spatial information and novel discovery of biological insights from spatial transcriptomic datasets.
30S subunit recognition and G1405 modification by the aminoglycoside-resistance 16S ribosomal RNA methyltransferase RmtC
Authors: Srinivas Pooja , Nosrati Meisam , Zelinskaya Natalia , Dey Debayan , Comstock Lindsay R. , Dunham Christine M. , Conn Graeme L.
Published: March 2023

Acquired ribosomal RNA (rRNA) methylation has emerged as a significant mechanism of aminoglycoside resistance in pathogenic bacterial infections. Modification of a single nucleotide in the ribosome decoding center by the aminoglycoside-resistance 16S rRNA (m7G1405) methyltransferases effectively blocks the action of all 4,6-deoxystreptamine ring-containing aminoglycosides, including the latest generation of drugs. To define the molecular basis of 30S subunit recognition and G1405 modification by these enzymes, we used aS-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAM) analog to trap the complex in a post-catalytic state to enable determination of an overall 3.0 Å cryo-electron microscopy structure of the m7G1405 methyltransferase RmtC bound to the matureEscherichia coli30S ribosomal subunit. This structure, together with functional analyses of RmtC variants, identifies the RmtC N-terminal domain as critical for recognition and docking of the enzyme on a conserved 16S rRNA tertiary surface adjacent to G1405 in 16S rRNA helix 44 (h44). To access the G1405 N7 position for modification, a collection of residues across one surface of RmtC, including a loop that undergoes a disorder to order transition upon 30S subunit binding, induces significant distortion of h44. This distortion flips G1405 into the enzyme active site where it is positioned for modification by two almost universally conserved RmtC residues. These studies expand our understanding of ribosome recognition by rRNA modification enzymes and present a more complete structural basis for future development of strategies to inhibit m7G1405 modification to re-sensitize bacterial pathogens to aminoglycosides.

Significance

Increasing prevalence of bacterial antibiotic resistance threatens our ability to treat bacterial infections and with it, many other facets of modern healthcare. For the ribosome-targeting aminoglycoside antibiotics, diverse pathogenic bacteria have acquired ribosomal RNA (rRNA) methyltransferase enzymes that confer exceptionally high-level resistance through site-specific modification of the drug binding site. Here, we define the molecular basis for ribosomal substrate recognition and modification by an enzyme (RmtC) representing the most clinically prevalent methyltransferase family. Specifically, RmtC exploits a conserved rRNA surface for binding and induces significant disruption of the rRNA structure to capture the target nucleotide for modification via a “base flipping” mechanism. These insights also present a platform for methyltransferase inhibitor development to extend usefulness of aminoglycoside antibiotics.
Emergence of ISAba1-linked oxacillinase genes among carbapenem resistantAcinetobacter baumanniiisolates in a tertiary cardiac center, Nepal
Authors: Bista Shrijana , Yadav Bindeshwar , Syangtan Gopiram , Shakya Jivan , Tuladhar Reshma , Joshi Dev Raj , Lekhak Binod
Published: March 2023

Insertion sequence contributes to the emergence of carbapenem resistance by dissemination of carbapenemase genes and providing promoter for their overexpression. This study aims to ascertain the occurrence of ISAba1-linked OXA carbapenemase genes and its relevance to carbapenem resistance level inAcinetobacter baumannii. This hospital based descriptive study was conducted at Shahid Gangalal National Heart Center, Kathmandu, Nepal. An overall of 1,291 clinical specimens received for routine culture and antibiotic susceptibility testing throughout the study period were included in this study. Identification ofAcinetobacter baumanniiwas validated through detection of intrinsicblaOXA-51-likegene by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Antibiotic susceptibility was tested by Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion approach and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of meropenem was assessed through agar dilution method. Uniplex PCR assays were performed to detect genes encoding oxacillinases and ISAba1. Upstream association of insertion element, ISAba1to oxacillinase genes was assessed through PCR mapping strategy using ISAba1F and OXA-51R/OXA-23R primers. Out of the 340 bacteria isolated, only 40 (11.8%) wereAcinetobacter baumannii. All isolates were resistant against meropenem with MIC value ranging from 16-256 μg/ml.blaOXA-23-likegenes was present in every isolate butblaOXA-58in just two isolates (5%). All isolates had ISAba1either aboveblaOXA-23-likeorblaOXA-51-likegene. Higher MIC90value of meropenem (243.20 μg/ml) was found inA.baumanniicluster with ISAba1-linked upstream to bothblaOXA-23-likeandblaOXA-51-likegenes, thus depicting their eminent role to enhanced carbapenem resistance.Acinetobacter baumanniiisolates with ISAba1-linked oxacillinase genes are rapidly emerging in clinical settings of Nepal. Thus, medical communities need to be prepared and enable targeted approaches for managing burgeoning problem of carbapenem resistance.
Histone methyltransferase SUV39H1 regulates the Golgi complex via the nuclear envelope-spanning LINC complex
Authors: Nishino Miyu , Imaizumi Hiromasa , Yokoyama Yuhki , Katahira Jun , Kimura Hiroshi , Matsuura Nariaki , Matsumura Miki
Published: March 2023

Cell motility is related to the higher-order structure of chromatin. Stimuli that induce cell migration change chromatin organization; such stimuli include elevated histone H3 lysine 9 trimethylation (H3K9me3). We previously showed that depletion of histone H3 lysine 9 methyltransferase, SUV39H1, suppresses directional cell migration. However, the molecular mechanism underlying this association between chromatin and cell migration remains elusive. The Golgi apparatus is a cell organelle essential for cell motility. In this study, we show that loss of H3K9 methyltransferase SUV39H1 but not SETDB1 or SETDB2 causes dispersion of the Golgi apparatus throughout the cytoplasm. The Golgi dispersion triggered by SUV39H1 depletion is independent of transcription, centrosomes, and microtubule organization, but is suppressed by depletion of any of the following three proteins: LINC complex components SUN2, nesprin-2, or microtubule plus-end-directed kinesin-like protein KIF20A. In addition, SUN2 is closely localized to H3K9me3, and SUV39H1 affects the mobility of SUN2 in the nuclear envelope. Further, inhibition of cell motility caused by SUV39H1 depletion is restored by suppression of SUN2, nesprin-2, or KIF20A. In summary, these results show the functional association between chromatin organization and cell motility via the Golgi organization regulated by the LINC complex.
Imaging of plant calcium-sensor kinase conformation monitors real time calcium decodingin planta
Authors: Liese Anja , Eichstädt Bernadette , Lederer Sarah , Schulz Philipp , Oehlschläger Jan , Feijó José A , Schulze Waltraud X. , Konrad Kai R. , Romeis Tina
Published: March 2023

Changes in cytosolic calcium concentration are among the earliest reactions to a multitude of stress cues. Whereas a plethora of calcium-permeable channels may generate distinct calcium signatures and contribute to response specificities, the mechanisms by which calcium signatures are decoded is poorly understood. Here we develop a genetically encoded, FRET-based reporter that visualizes the conformational change of calcium-dependent protein kinases (CDPKs/CPKs), preceding kinase activation, for calcium-dependent AtCPK21 and calcium-independent AtCPK23. In pollen tubes, naturally displaying a physiological calcium range, CPK21-FRET, but not CPK23-FRET, report activity oscillations with similar features to cytosolic calcium, suggesting an isoform-specific calcium dependency and reversibility of the conformational change. In guard cells CPK21-FRET identifies CPK21 as a decoder of signal-specific calcium signatures in response to ABA and flg22. Based on this data, CDPK-FRET stands as a novel approach for tackling real-time live-cell calcium decoding in a multitude of plant developmental and stress responses.
A Dynamic population of prophase CENP-C is required for meiotic chromosome segregation
Authors: Fellmeth Jessica E. , Jang Janet , Persaud Manisha , Sturm Hannah , Changela Neha , Parikh Aashka , McKim Kim S.
Published: March 2023

The centromere is an epigenetic mark that is a loading site for the kinetochore during meiosis and mitosis. This mark is characterized by the H3 variant CENP-A, known as CID inDrosophila. InDrosophila, CENP-C is critical for maintaining CID at the centromeres and directly recruits outer kinetochore proteins after nuclear envelope break down. It is not known, however, if these two functions require the same CENP-C molecules. Furthermore, inDrosophilaand many other metazoan oocytes, centromere maintenance and kinetochore assembly are separated by an extended prophase. Consistent with studies in mammals, CID is relatively stable and does not need to be expressed during prophase to remain at high levels in metaphase I of meiosis. Expression of CID during prophase can even be deleterious, causing ectopic localization to non-centromeric chromatin, abnormal meiosis and sterility. In contrast to CID, maintaining high levels of CENP-C requires expression during prophase. Confirming the importance of this loading, we found CENP-C prophase loading is required for multiple meiotic functions. In early meiotic prophase, CENP-C loading is required for sister centromere cohesion and centromere clustering. In late meiotic prophase, CENP-C loading is required to recruit kinetochore proteins. CENP-C is one of the few proteins identified in which expression during prophase is required for meiotic chromosome segregation. An implication of these results is that the failure to maintain recruitment of CENP-C during the extended prophase in oocytes would result in chromosome segregation errors in oocytes.

Author Summary

Meiosis in oocytes of diverse organisms, including humans andDrosophila,is characterized by a long prophase pause and a cell cycle arrest in meiosis I or meiosis II. These pauses could be a challenge for centromeres, whose components are replenished during G1, and then must remain with the chromosomes until the meiotic divisions. We have investigated the stability, prophase dynamics and function of centromere protein CENP-C. We show that CENP-C expression and loading onto centromeres during prophase is required for multiple meiotic functions. In contrast, the expression of other centromere partners CID/CENP-A and CAL1 is not required during meiotic prophase. Furthermore, expression of CID during prophase can be deleterious and result in ectopic kinetochore formation. CENP-C loading in prophase is required for sister centromere cohesion and kinetochore assembly. Our results provide the first description of CENP-C dynamics during meiosis and show that prophase expression is required for oocyte spindle assembly and function. CENP-C is among a small number of proteins that are required for the meiotic divisions but are loaded prior to prometaphase. Failure to maintain these proteins during the long prophase of oocyte meiosis may contribute to the increased aneuploidy associated with advanced maternal age.
Intermediate filament dysregulation and astrocytopathy in the human disease model ofKLHL16mutation in giant axonal neuropathy (GAN)
Authors: Battaglia Rachel , Faridounnia Maryam , Beltran Adriana , Robinson Jasmine , Kinghorn Karina , Ezzell J. Ashley , Bharucha-Goebel Diana , Bonnemann Carsten , Hooper Jody E. , Opal Puneet , Bouldin Thomas W. , Armao Diane , Snider Natasha
Published: March 2023

Giant Axonal Neuropathy (GAN) is a pediatric neurodegenerative disease caused byKLHL16mutations.KLHL16encodes gigaxonin, a regulator of intermediate filament (IF) protein turnover. Previous neuropathological studies and our own examination of postmortem GAN brain tissue in the current study revealed astrocyte involvement in GAN. To study the underlying mechanisms, we reprogrammed skin fibroblasts from seven GAN patients carrying differentKLHL16mutations to iPSCs. Isogenic controls with restored IF phenotypes were derived via CRISPR/Cas9 editing of one patient carrying a homozygous missense mutation (G332R). Neural progenitor cells (NPCs), astrocytes, and brain organoids were generated through directed differentiation. All GAN iPSC lines were deficient for gigaxonin, which was restored in the isogenic control. GAN iPSCs displayed patient-specific increased vimentin expression, while GAN NPCs had decreased nestin expression compared to isogenic control. The most striking phenotypes were observed in GAN iPSC-astrocytes and brain organoids, which exhibited dense perinuclear IF accumulations and abnormal nuclear morphology. GAN patient cells with large perinuclear vimentin aggregates accumulated nuclearKLHL16mRNA. In over-expression studies, GFAP oligomerization and perinuclear aggregation were potentiated in the presence of vimentin. As an early effector ofKLHL16mutations, vimentin may serve as a potential therapeutic target in GAN.
Metabolomics of bacterial-fungal pairwise interactions reveal conserved molecular mechanisms
Authors: Luu Gordon T. , Little Jessica C. , Pierce Emily C. , Morin Manon , Ertekin Celine A. , Wolfe Benjamin E. , Baars Oliver , Dutton Rachel J. , Sanchez Laura M.
Published: March 2023

Bacterial-fungal interactions (BFIs) can shape the structure of microbial communities, but the small molecules mediating these BFIs are often understudied. We explored various optimization steps for our microbial culture and chemical extraction protocols for bacterial-fungal co-cultures, and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) revealed that metabolomic profiles are mainly comprised of fungi derived features, indicating that fungi are the key contributors to small molecule mediated BFIs. LC-inductively coupled plasma MS (LC-ICP-MS) and MS/MS based dereplication using database searching revealed the presence of several known fungal specialized metabolites and structurally related analogues in these extracts, including siderophores such as desferrichrome, desferricoprogen, and palmitoylcoprogen. Among these analogues, a novel putative coprogen analogue possessing a terminal carboxylic acid motif was identified fromScopulariopsisspp. JB370, a common cheese rind fungus, and its structure was elucidated via MS/MS fragmentation. Based on these findings, filamentous fungal species appear to be capable of producing multiple siderophores with potentially different biological roles (i.e. various affinities for different forms of iron). These findings highlight that fungal species are important contributors to microbiomes via their production of abundant specialized metabolites and their role in complex communities should continue to be a priority.
Bacterial contact induces polar plug disintegration to mediate whipworm egg hatching
Authors: Robertson Amicha , Sall Joseph , Venzon Mericien , Olivas Janet J. , Zheng Xuhui , Cammer Michael , Antao Noelle , Thur Rafaela Saes , Bethony Jeffrey , Nejsum Peter , Torres Victor J. , Liang Feng-Xia , Cadwell Ken
Published: March 2023

The bacterial microbiota promotes the life cycle of the intestine-dwelling whipwormTrichurisby mediating hatching of parasite eggs ingested by the mammalian host. Despite the enormous disease burden associated withTrichuriscolonization, the mechanisms underlying this transkingdom interaction have been obscure. Here, we used a multiscale microscopy approach to define the structural events associated with bacteria-mediated hatching of eggs for the murine model parasiteTrichuris muris. Through the combination of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and serial block face SEM (SBFSEM), we visualized the outer surface morphology of the shell and generated 3D structures of the egg and larva during the hatching process. These images revealed that exposure to hatching-inducing bacteria catalyzed asymmetric degradation of the polar plugs prior to exit by the larva. Although unrelated bacteria induced similar loss of electron density and dissolution of the structural integrity of the plugs, egg hatching was most efficient in the presence of bacteria that bound poles with high density such asStaphylococcus aureus. Consistent with the ability of taxonomically distant bacteria to induce hatching, additional results suggest chitinase released from larva within the eggs degrade the plugs from the inside instead of enzymes produced by bacteria in the external environment. These findings define at ultrastructure resolution the evolutionary adaptation of a parasite for the microbe-rich environment of the mammalian gut.
A mathematical framework for the emergence of winners and losers in cell competition
Authors: Pak Thomas F. , Pitt-Francis Joe M. , Baker Ruth E.
Published: March 2023

Cell competition is a process in multicellular organisms where cells interact with their neighbours to determine a “winner” or “loser” status. The loser cells are eliminated through programmed cell death, leaving only the winner cells to populate the tissue. Cell competition is context-dependent; the same cell type can win or lose depending on the cell type it is competing against. Hence, winner/loser status is anemergentproperty. A key question in cell competition is: how do cells acquire their winner/loser status? In this paper, we propose a mathematical framework for studying the emergence of winner/loser status based on a set of quantitative criteria that distinguishes competitive from non-competitive outcomes. We apply this framework in a cell-based modelling context, to both highlight the crucial role of active cell death in cell competition and identify the factors that drive cell competition.

Highlights

Emergent winner/loser status tests for competitive outcomes in cell-based models

Differences in biomechanical properties alone are not sufficient for cell competition

Winners have both higher tolerance and higher emission of death signals than losers
Statistical analysis of the circular economy for the intervention policies of the NRRP
Authors: Passaro Pierluigi , Perchinunno Paola , Rotondo Francesco
Published: March 2023

Purpose

This paper deals with analyzing the relationships between the domains of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Missions envisaged by the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP). Specifically, the authors refer to Mission 2 (Green revolution and ecological transition) and to the statistical indicators related to the M2C1 component (Circular economy and sustainable agriculture).

Design/methodology/approach

The numerous data available were analyzed at a regional level using multivariate statistical methodologies (Totally Fuzzy and Relative method) capable of summarizing the various information to evaluate the current situation relating to the “circular economy and sustainable agriculture” component. The presence of multiple updated data allows for the development of a holistic approach to the evaluation of the local government policies in place and to be able to monitor the progress of the subsequent intervention policies of the Italian government.

Findings

No Findings.

Originality/value

NRRP represents an opportunity for development for the area, providing for reforms and substantial investments for the promotion of circular economy solutions, the improvement of the capacity for efficient and sustainable waste management, the strengthening of the infrastructures for treatment of waste and separate collection, the reduction of the North/South gap.
Perceptions, use and perceived value of nutrition and health claims among Australian consumers: a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Hughes Jaimee , McMahon Anne , Houston Lauren , Neale Elizabeth
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Nutrition and health claims are used widely on food labels and are known to influence food choice, however research has found that consumer perceptions of such claims are mixed. The study aimed to explore the perceptions, use and perceived value of nutrition and health claims among consumers and investigate barriers for the use of claims in guiding food choice.

Design/methodology/approach

An online cross-sectional survey conducted in May-July 2019 collected information on participant demographics, reported use and perceptions of nutrition and health claims, and barriers to the use of claims for 150 Australian consumers.

Findings

While the majority (73.5%) of respondents were aware of nutrition and health claims on food labels and were largely confident in interpreting claims, 29% of respondents “often” or “always” used claims to guide food choices. More than one-quarter (27.3%) of respondents found nutrition and health claims “not very useful” or “not at all useful” for guiding food choice, while only 12.7% perceived claims as “very trustworthy” or “extremely trustworthy”. The ingredients list and nutrition information panel were the preferred sources of on-pack nutrition information for guiding food choice.

Originality/value

Findings suggest there remains a role for nutrition and health claims to help consumers make healthier dietary decisions however, it appears that trust in claims and regulations must firstly be addressed. There is a need to develop strategies to increase the perceived trustworthiness of these claims, including clearer promotion of the current regulatory requirements for making nutrition and health claims.
The light at the end of the tunnel: marketing to seniors
Authors: Hirsch Peter Buell
Published: March 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to address the continuing absence of older individuals portrayed across the advertising spectrum.

Design/methodology/approach

A selective citation of research about seniors as a powerful wealth segment and growing demographic contrasted with their almost complete absence from any advertising/marketing other than for products for the “aged.”

Findings

The research clearly demonstrates that older people are active buyers of consumer products, especially digital products and that stereotypes about the behaviors and opinions of classic generational cohorts are invalid.

Research limitations/implications

This viewpoint is based on selective citations from the relevant literature and makes no claim to being a comprehensive review.

Practical implications

If the recommendations suggested in the viewpoint are adopted, people should see more older people depicted sensitively in a wider range of product categories from cell phones to detergent.

Social implications

If the viewpoints expressed in the article being widely known and understood, people should see a reduction in the careless stereotyping of Boomers, Millennials and other cohorts, leading to greater empathy and understanding.

Originality/value

The viewpoint brings together many disparate threads around marketing to seniors and generational cohort stereotyping in a way that has not been done before, to the best of the author’s knowledge.
The interplay between corporate social responsibility and knowledge management strategies for innovation capability development in dynamic environments
Authors: González-Ramos M. Isabel , Donate Mario J. , Guadamillas Fátima
Published: March 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to analyze unexplored connections between economic, environmental and social dimensions of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and knowledge management (KM) strategies (exploration, exploitation), also considering environmental dynamism as an influencing variable on these connections. The predicted CSR-KM interplay suggests, from stakeholder and knowledge-based views of the firm, the existence of ideal configurations between CSR and KM strategies that generate differentiated impacts on companies’ innovation capabilities, especially in dynamic environments.

Design/methodology/approach

Structural equation modeling by means of the partial least squares technique was used to test the study’s hypotheses after collecting survey data from Spanish companies of the renewable energy sector.

Findings

The study findings show that in highly dynamic environments, companies will tend to commit prominently in CSR, although their orientation (economic, environmental, social) and effects on innovation capabilities will depend mainly on the selected KM strategies. Social and environmental CSR are found to be highly related to KM exploration, whereas economic CSR is highly related to KM exploitation. Nevertheless, while a significant indirect effect of economic CSR by means of the KM exploitation strategy on innovation capabilities is found, the proposed indirect effect of both environmental and social CSR through the KM exploration strategy on innovation capabilities is not significant.

Practical implications

The results suggest that company managers should be aware of the advantages of following specific paths of investment in KM and CSR initiatives in highly dynamic environments, as there is a potential payoff in terms of innovation capability improvement. The results also suggest that “good” relationships with stakeholders, built from specific CSR investments, make firms able to get valuable knowledge that it is useful to develop KM strategies for innovation capability development.

Originality/value

Previous studies do not consider the interplay between KM strategies and CSR as a catalyzer for developing a firm’s innovation capabilities. This paper contributes to the KM and innovation literatures by introducing CSR into the conversation about how to improve innovation capabilities in dynamic and sustainable industries by using configurations of KM strategies and specific CSR investments in economic, social and environmental areas.
Beyond Relevance and towards Utilization: Academic Perspective Taking and the Experience of Surprise as a Proposed Indicator of Impact on Practice
Authors: Paterson Ted A. , Harms Peter D. , Erin Bass Andrea
Published: March 2023

We propose that a pluralistic conceptualization of scholarly impact includes surprise in addition to the more established relevance construct. We identify competing perspectives on the nature of the relevance–surprise relationship and test these perspectives empirically. Results suggest that when managers rate research findings, there is a very strong negative relationship between relevance and surprise; however, when rated by academics attempting to predict managerial responses, the relationship is orthogonal. We also find that academics are generally adept at predicting managers’ ratings of relevance and surprise when presented with academic research findings. Our findings are encouraging in that they suggest that academics are adept at perspective taking; however, they simultaneously highlight a challenge for academics because their most surprising research findings may be dismissed as irrelevant by managers.
Armstead v Royal Sun Alliance Insurance Company Ltd: The Interface between The Winkfield and Conarken
Authors: Huang Yeqiu (Dan)
Published: March 2023

In Armstead v Royal Sun Alliance Insurance Company Ltd, the Court of Appeal considered the limits of the ‘proprietary fiction’ established by The Winkfield, allowing bailees to recover loss through their possessory title of bailment property against a wrongdoer. Despite the decision being defensible on its facts, the Court of Appeal failed to clarify: (i) whose consequential loss the bailee can recover, or whether the bailee and bailor possess ‘one set of rights’; (ii) the interface between the recoverability of third‐party contractual liabilities in tort and the rules of bailment; and (iii) the nature and scope of the ‘proprietary fiction’ established by The Winkfield. This note argues that the bailee's claim against the wrongdoer arises solely from the possessory title (without reference to the bailor) and the ordinary rules of tort should apply after establishing such title.
The origins of hospital food: Where does it come from and what do staff, patients and suppliers think about local food?
Authors: Carino Stefanie , Misale Georgia , Egan Meredith , Collins Jorja
Published: March 2023

Aims

To identify the origin of fresh and minimally processed foods served to hospital patients, and explore the challenges and enablers to local food procurement in hospitals.

Methods

A mixed methods study was conducted in a healthcare network in Victoria, Australia. Packaging labels and product information were used to audit fresh and minimally processed foods purchased in 1 week. Processed food items and meals made offsite were not audited. Interviews were conducted with patients, staff and suppliers to explore their perspectives towards local food in hospitals. Framework analysis was used to identify themes.

Results

Of 105 food products audited, 32% were imported, 25% were ‘local’ from Victoria and the remaining 43% were from within Australia (excluding Victoria). Qualitative interviews revealed several challenges including: increased cost of local food items, inconsistent supply and variable quality of local produce, difficulty accessing origin information, and lack of autonomy for hospitals to make food procurement choices. Enablers included: conducting a food origin audit to increase awareness, group purchasing organisation prioritising local food suppliers, and suppliers valuing local produce.

Conclusion

A food origin audit and interviews with stakeholders provided a rich understanding of current practices and how to increase local food procurement.
Fabrication and design of poly(l‐lactic acid) membrane for passive MAP packaging of Brassica chinensis L
Authors: Yun Xueyan , Lu Hao , Zhou Ziyi , Yuan Shuai , Wang Yangyang , Dong Tungalag
Published: March 2023

PLDxL copolymers were synthesized from physically stable rigid poly(l‐lactic acid) (PLLA) and a few different molecular weights of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) to increase the O2 and CO2 permeabilities of PLLA films and make them acceptable for packaging highly respirable products. The effect of PDMS on the morphology, mechanical properties, and gas permeability of PLDxL was investigated. Copolymers showed approximately 10 times the fracture strain and 1.7 times the CO2 and O2 permeabilities of neat PLLA. Additionally, PLDxL maintained an increased CO2/O2 perm‐selectivity consistent between 5 and 40°C. Passive modified atmosphere packaging of Brassica chinensis L was developed to assess the membrane's impact on headspace gas inside the package. The results showed that poly(amide)/poly(ethylene) packaging with 48 cm2 PLD1.8L membrane as a breathing window can provide 50 g B. chinensis L. with a healthy atmosphere of 3%–8% O2 and 5%–8% CO2 between 6 and 22 days. Vegetables packaged in PLD1.8L had the lower respiration rate, lower nitrite contents, and less proliferation of microorganisms. Moreover, a suitable atmosphere kept vegetables with higher ascorbic acid and a good appearance after more than 2 weeks of storage at 5°C.

Practical Application

The permeability of the PLLA‐based membrane can be adjusted for the breathable window membrane of sealed fresh products. In the future, several types of film could be developed to match the respiratory and metabolic characteristics of different kinds of products. Such PLLA‐based specialized membranes can refine the fresh‐keeping function and be more attractive to the customer.
Factors related to COVID‐19 mortality among three Swedish intensive care units—A retrospective study
Authors: Taxbro Knut , Hammarskjöld Fredrik , Nilsson Mats , Persson Magnus , Chew Michelle S. , Sunnergren Ola
Published: March 2023

Background

Mortality due to acute hypoxemic respiratory failure (AHRF) in patients with coronavirus disease‐19 (COVID‐19) differs across units, regions, and countries. These variations may be attributed to several factors, including comorbidities, acute physiological derangement, disease severity, treatment, ethnicity, healthcare system strain, and socioeconomic status. This study aimed to explore the features of patient characteristics, clinical management, and staffing that may be related to mortality among three intensive care units (ICUs) within the same hospital system in South Sweden.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed ICU patients with COVID‐19 and AHRF in Region Jönköping County, Sweden. The primary outcome was the 90‐day mortality rate. We used univariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses to investigate the relationship of predictors with outcomes.

Results

Between March 15, 2020, and May 31, 2021, 331 patients with AHRF and COVID‐19 were admitted to the three ICUs. There were differences in disease severity, treatments, process‐related factors, and socioeconomic factors between the units. These factors were related to 90‐day mortality. After multivariable adjustment, age, severity of acute respiratory distress syndrome, and the number of nurses per ICU‐bed independently predicted 90‐day mortality.

Conclusion

Age, disease severity, and nurse staffing, but not treatment or socioeconomic status, were independently associated with 90‐day mortality among critically ill patients with AHRF due to COVID‐19. We also identified variations in care related processes, which may be a modifiable risk factor and warrants future investigation.
Do small businesses adjust their capital structure? Evidence from the global financial crisis in Japan
Authors: Tsuruta Daisuke
Published: March 2023

We investigate the extent to which small businesses adjust their capital structures to target levels when their leverage increases substantially during a financial crisis. We examine Japan's Emergency Credit Guarantee (ECG) program during the 2008 global financial crisis. The increased leverage from the use of the ECG program during the crisis increased the probability of default. Additionally, small businesses adjusted their leverage ratios to the target range before the crisis. However, such adjustments were weak during and after the crisis, particularly for target firms in the ECG program.
Country environmental, social and governance performance and economic growth: The international evidence
Authors: Wang Jiazhen , Yu Jing , Zhong Rui
Published: March 2023

This study documents a significant and positive impact of country‐level environmental, social and governance (ESG) improvement on economic growth using an international sample of 109 countries through improving energy efficiency, promoting human‐capital accumulation and attracting foreign investments. The economic benefits of country‐level ESG improvement are robust after alleviating possible endogeneity concerns. Further analysis shows that the positive influence of country ESG performance on economic growth is most pronounced in high‐income countries and for high‐greenhouse gas emitters but weaker in countries whose national income relies on natural resources. Our findings provide policy implications for promoting sustainable economic growth.
Topographic anatomy and vascularization of the glandula thyroidea in rats
Authors: Nur Ismail Hakki , Pérez William , Rutland Catrin Sian
Published: March 2023

Topographical anatomy and detailed measurements of the glandula thyroidea (thyroid gland) and the glandula parathyroidea (parathyroid gland) were determined in rats, with significant differences identified between the sexes. In the rats (N = 10 male, 10 female), the glandula thyroidea were positioned at the level of the C1 and C2 vertebrae. One glandula parathyroidea was present in each glandula thyroidea lobe, localized in the cranial part of the lateral lobes in 60% of the animals. There was no glandula thyroidea left lobe in one female and no isthmus in two females. Both the A. thyroidea cranialis and the A. pharyngea ascendens originated from the A. carotis externa, which acted as a common trunk. On the left, the A. thyroidea caudalis originated from the truncus brachiocephalicus in all rats and on the right side was found to originate from both the truncus costocervicalis and the A. subclavia dextra in three females, and only from the truncus costocervicalis in seven females. The V. thyroidea cranialis opened into the V. jugularis interna in the neck region and at the level of the apertura thoracis cranialis, and the V. jugularis interna united with the V. thyroidea caudalis. In addition, on the right, the V. thyroidea cranialis joined the V. jugularis interna, at the level of the A. subclavia. The veins on both sides opened into the V. cava cranialis. Significant differences were observed between the sexes and detailed anatomical analysis of the glandula thyroidea and the glandula parathyroidea, and related vasculature and innervation, have been described in this paper.
Relationship between residential aged care facility characteristics and breaches of the Australian aged care regulatory standards: non‐compliance notices and sanctions
Authors: Alan Janine , Randall Sean , Ferrante Anna , Porock Davina
Published: March 2023

Objectives

To examine the relationship between structural characteristics of Australian residential aged care facilities (RACFs) and breaches of the aged care quality standards.

Methods

Facility‐level analysis of audits, sanctions and non‐compliance notices of all accredited Australian RACFs between 2015/16 and 2018/19. Structural factors of interest included RACF size, remoteness, ownership type and jurisdiction. Two government data sources were joined. Each outcome was analysed to calculate time trends, unadjusted rates and relative risks.

Results

Non‐compliance notices were imposed on 369 RACFs (13%) and 83 sanctions on 75 RACFs (3%). Compared with New South Wales (NSW), non‐compliance notices were less likely in Victoria, Queensland and the Northern Territory (NT), more likely in South Australia (SA), and comparable in Western Australia (WA), Tasmania and the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). RACFs with more than 100 beds and RACFs located in remote and outer regional areas (vs. major cities) also increased the likelihood of non‐compliance notices. Compared with NSW, sanctions were less likely in Victoria, Queensland, NT and WA and comparable in SA, Tasmania and ACT. Additionally, the likelihood of sanctions was higher for RACFs with more than 40 beds. For both non‐compliance notices and sanctions, no significant relationship was found with RACF ownership type.

Conclusions

We partially confirmed other Australian findings about the relationship between RACF structural characteristics and regulatory sanctions and reported new findings about non‐compliance notices. Routine and standardised public reporting of RACF performance is needed to build trust that Australia's latest aged care reforms have led to sustained quality improvements.
Incidence and risk factors for neoplasia in inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Garcia Joana Lemos , Rosa Isadora , da Silva João Pereira , Moleiro Joana , Claro Isabel
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) patients may have an increased risk of neoplasia. The aim was to evaluate the incidence of malignant neoplasia in IBD patients, associated risk factors and therapy adjustments.

Methods

Unicentric retrospective cohort study. All patients followed for IBD in a tertiary portuguese hospital and oncological centre during 2015–2020 were included.

Results

318 patients were included female 55.0%, age at diagnosis = 37.24(±15,28), Crohn's disease 52.5%, Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis n = 7, family history of cancer n = 12, previous diagnosis of neoplasia n = 23(7.2%). 42 cancers were diagnosed in 35 patients (11.0%) ‐ median of 12.0(IQR = 7.5‐21.0) years after IBD diagnosis. Most affected organs were the skin (n = 15 in 11 patients; melanoma = 1), colon/rectum (n = 8 in 6 patients), prostate (n = 4), breast (n = 3) and anal canal (n = 2). In those with non‐melanoma skin cancer, 6 were under active treatment with azathioprine and 2 had stopped it for more than two years. In the univariate analysis, the occurrence of neoplasia was positively associated with tobacco exposure (p = 0.022), age at IBD diagnosis (p = 0.021), and negatively with infliximab exposure (p = 0.046). In 9 cases, cancer treatment was different because of the IBD, while IBD treatment was changed in 9 patients. In those affected by cancer, in the univariate analysis, its cure/remission was negatively associated with tobacco exposure (p = 0.004) and positively with salicylates use (p = 0.007).

Conclusion

In IBD patients, cancer mostly affected the skin and the lower digestive system. As in the general population, tobacco exposure was a risk factor for the development of neoplasia.
The therapeutic effects of berberine for gastrointestinal cancers
Authors: Davoodvandi Amirhossein , Sadeghi Sahand , Alavi Seyed Mohammad Amin , Alavi Seyedeh Shaghayegh , Jafari Ameneh , Khan Haroon , Aschner Michael , Mirzaei Hamed , Sharifi Mehran , Asemi Zatollah
Published: March 2023

Cancer is one of the most serious human health issues. Drug therapy is the major common way to treat cancer. There is a growing interest in using natural compounds to overcome drug resistance, adverse reactions, and target specificity of certain types of drugs that may affect several targets with fewer side effects and be beneficial against various types of cancer. In this regard, the use of herbal medicines alone or in combination with the main anticancer drugs is commonly available. Berberine (BBR), a nature‐driven phytochemical component, is a well‐known nutraceutical due to its wide variety of pharmacological activities, including antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, antiparasitic, antidiabetic, antihypertensive, and hypolipidemic. In addition, BBR exerts anticancer activities. In present article, we summarized the information available on the therapeutic effects of BBR and its mechanisms on five types of the most prevalent gastrointestinal cancers, including esophageal, gastric, colorectal, hepatocarcinoma, and pancreatic cancers.