bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Discovery and characterization of a first-in-field transcription factor BRN2 inhibitor for the treatment of neuroendocrine prostate cancer
Authors: Thaper Daksh , Munuganti Ravi , Aguda Adeleke , Kim Soojin , Ku Shengyu , Sivak Olena , Kumar Sahil , Vahid Sepideh , Ganguli Dwaipayan , Beltran Himisha , Morrissey Colm , Corey Eva , Zoubeidi Amina
Published: May 2022

The increased incidence of treatment-emergent neuroendocrine prostate cancer (NEPC) is particularly alarming as this diagnosis is associated with poor prognosis. Despite initial responses to platinum-based chemotherapy, relapses are common and there is no effective second line therapy for NEPC. We previously identified that neuronal transcription factor BRN2 (POU3F2) is a potent driver of neuroendocrine differentiation and an attractive target for NEPC. Utilizing a combination of in silico modeling and X-ray crystallography followed by structure-based lead optimization, we have developed the first potent, specific and orally bioavailable BRN2 inhibitor (B18-94), which inhibits the interaction between BRN2 and DNA. This loss of BRN2 on the chromatin drastically reduces its transcriptional output resulting in downregulation of several known targets in NEPC such as SOX2, ASCL1 and PEG10. Additionally, B18-94 reduces specifically cell proliferation specifically in multiple NEPC models with no effect on adenocarcinoma and other BRN2 negative prostate cancer models. Importantly, the consistency in the transcriptomic changes driven by B18-94 and or CRISPR/Cas9 mediated BRN2 knockout confirmed the on-target specificity, with both methods of BRN2 inhibition downregulating pathways involved in cellular plasticity and proliferation. Finally, we have demonstrated that B18-94, the first-in-field POU-domain transcription factor inhibitor, significantly reduced tumor growth in several NEPC xenograft models with no observable toxicity, suggesting potential for therapeutic intervention of NEPC.
Role of Rab5 early endosomes in regulatingDrosophilagut antibacterial response
Authors: Joshi Manish , Viallat-Lieutaud Annelise , Royet Julien
Published: May 2022

Interactions between prokaryotes and eukaryotes require a dialogue between MAMPs and PRRs. InDrosophila, bacterial peptidoglycan is detected by PGRP receptors. While the components of the signaling cascades activated upon PGN/PGRP interactions are well characterized, little is known about the subcellular events that translate these early signaling steps into target gene transcription. Using aDrosophilaenteric infection model, we show that gut-associated bacteria can induce the formation of intracellular PGRP-LE aggregates which colocalized with the early endosome marker Rab5. Combining microscopic and RNA-seq analysis, we demonstrate that RNAi inactivation of the endocytosis pathway in theDrosophilagut affects the expression of essential regulators of the NF-κB response leading not only to a disruption of the immune response locally in the gut but also at the systemic level. This work sheds new light on the involvement of the endocytosis pathway in the control of the gut response to intestinal bacterial infection

Graphical abstract
Expression of GDNF Receptors Within Nucleus Ambiguus During Rat Development
Authors: Blount Quinton , Hernandez-Morato Ignacio , Moayedi Yalda , Pitman Michael J
Published: May 2022

Objective

Upregulation of GDNF and its receptors is observed during laryngeal reinnervation after nerve injury. In contrast, little is known regarding the expression of GDNF receptors in the formation of the nucleus ambiguus (NA) and its innervation of the larynx during embryogenesis. Differences may suggest therapeutic targets after nerve injury.

Study Design

Laboratory experiment.

Methods

Rat brainstems at E14, E16, E18, E20, adult (4 animals/timepoint) were sectioned and stained for GDNF receptors: GFRα-1, GFRα-2, GFRα-3, and Ret. Islet1 and ChAT were used as markers for motoneuron cell bodies. Sections were observed using Zeiss Axio Imager M2 Microscope and quantified using Image J.

Results

Expression of all four GDNF receptors was identified within the nucleus ambiguus, as well as hypoglossal and facial nuclei of the adult rat brainstem. During rat development, GFRα-3 and Ret exhibited upregulation within the nucleus ambiguus at E14 whereas GFRα-1 began showing upregulation at E20. GFRα-2 exhibited no upregulation at embryonic timepoints. Conclusion: Upregulation of the GDNF receptors within the nucleus ambiguus occur after laryngeal muscles innervation during development and may associated with maturation and maintenance of the neuromuscular synapses of the larynx before and after birth. No differences among ambiguus, hypoglossal, and facial nuclei was observed.
The effect of motor-induced shaft dynamics on microtubule stability and length
Authors: Schaer Joël , Andreu-Carbó Mireia , Kruse Karsten , Aumeier Charlotte
Published: May 2022

Control of microtubule abundance, stability, and length is crucial to regulate intracellular transport as well as cell polarity and division. How microtubule stability depends on tubulin addition or removal at the dynamic ends is well studied. However, microtubule rescue, the event when a microtubule switches from shrinking to growing, occurs at tubulin exchange sites along the shaft. Molecular motors have recently been shown to promote such exchanges. Using a stochastic theoretical description, we study how microtubule stability and length depends on motor-induced tubulin exchange and thus rescue. Our theoretical description matches our in vitro experiments on microtubule dynamics in presence of kinesin-1 molecular motors. Although the average microtubule dynamics can be captured by an effective rescue rate, the dynamics of individual microtubules differs dramatically when rescue occurs only at exchange sites. Furthermore, we study in detail a transition from bounded to unbounded microtubule growth. Our results provide novel insights into how molecular motors imprint information of microtubule stability on the microtubule network.

SIGNIFICANCE

The microtubule network is essential for vital cellular processes like the organization of intracellular transport and division. Although microtubule assembly occurs at its tips, it has recently been reported that tubulin is exchanged along the microtubule shaft. Tubulin exchange plays an essential role in regulating microtubule dynamics and can be induced by molecular motors. Here, we provide the first systematic study of the impact of shaft dynamics on the regulation of rescue events, where a microtubule switches from shrinking to growing. Our results illustrate how the usage of microtubules as tracks for intracellular transport regulates the microtubule network and thus offers a novel perspective on intracellular organization.
Asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection by age: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Bing , Andraweera Prabha , Elliott Salenna , Mohammed Hassen , Lassi Zohra , Twigger Ashley , Borgas Chloe , Gunasekera Shehani , Ladhani Shamez , Marshall Helen Siobhan
Published: May 2022

Objectives

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to estimate the age-specific proportion of asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infected persons by year of age.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Embase, medRxiv and Google Scholar on 10 September 2020 and 1 March 2021. We included studies conducted during January to October 2020, prior to routine vaccination against COVID-19. Since we expected the relationship between the asymptomatic proportion and age to be non-linear, multilevel mixed-effects logistic regression (QR decomposition) with a restricted cubic spline was used to model asymptomatic proportions as a function of age.

Results

A total of 38 studies were included in the meta-analysis. In total, 6556 out of 14850 cases were reported as asymptomatic. The overall estimate of the proportion of people who became infected with SARS-CoV-2 and remained asymptomatic throughout infection was 44.1% (6556/14850, 95%CI 43.3%-45.0%). The asymptomatic proportion peaked in adolescents (36.2%, 95%CI 26.0%-46.5%) at 13.5 years, gradually decreased by age and was lowest at 90.5 years of age (8.1%, 95%CI 3.4%-12.7%).

Conclusions

Given the high rates of asymptomatic carriage in adolescents and young adults and their active role in virus transmission in the community, heightened vigilance and public health strategies are needed among these individuals to prevent disease transmission.
Executive alumni and corporate social responsibility in China
Authors: Hu Yuanyuan , Fang Jiali
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This study investigates whether corporate executives, who are university alumni, influence each other's firm corporate social responsibility (CSR) performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on social network theory, the authors hypothesise that a firm's CSR performance is positively associated with its peer firms' average CSR performance when the executives of the firm and its peer firms are university alumni. The study employs data from 1,685 listed firms and 4,906 executives who graduated from 585 different universities in China and runs multivariate regressions.

Findings

The results reveal a sizeable university peer influence on CSR performance. Such influence is even stronger for executives who graduated from elite universities (e.g. 985 or 211 universities), and universities or programmes that provide more opportunities for alumni reunions or networking (e.g. MBAs/EMBAs). Executives who are more influential in making firm decisions (e.g. CEOs/CFOs), as well as firms that are more likely to mimic the behaviour of others, also show higher degrees of university peer influence.

Practical implications

The results highlight the role of education in ethical decision-making.

Originality/value

This study documents evidence on a new determinant of firm CSR performance. The study sheds light on the impact of non-institutionalised personal ties, for example, university alumni networks, on CSR performance.
Analysts’ foreign ancestral origins and firms’ information environment
Authors: Wang Kun Tracy , Luo Guqiang , Yu Li
Published: May 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine whether and how analysts’ foreign ancestral origins would have an effect on analysts’ earning forecasts in particular and ultimately on firms’ information environment in general.

Design/methodology/approach

By inferring analysts’ ancestral countries based on their surnames, this study empirically examines whether analysts’ ancestral countries affect their earnings forecast errors.

Findings

Using novel data on analysts’ foreign ancestral origins from more than 110 countries, this study finds that relative to analysts with common American surnames, analysts with common foreign surnames tend to have higher earnings forecast errors. The positive relation between analyst foreign surnames and earnings forecast errors is more likely to be observed for African-American analysts and analysts whose ancestry countries are geographically apart from the USA. In contrast, this study finds that when analysts’ foreign countries of ancestry are aligned with that of the CEOs, analysts exhibit lower earnings forecast errors relative to analysts with common American surnames. More importantly, the results show that firms followed by more analysts with foreign surnames tend to exhibit higher earnings forecast errors.

Originality/value

Taken together, findings of this study are consistent with the conjecture that geographical, social and ethnical proximity between managers and analysts affect firms’ information environment. Therefore, this study contributes to the determinants of analysts’ earnings forecast errors and adds to the literature on firms’ information environment.
Ownership, capital structure and operating loss of acquiring firms
Authors: Fan Shuangrui , Wang Cong
Published: May 2022

Purpose

The article aims to investigate the effects of ownership and capital structure on postacquisition operating performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The article extends the ongoing literature from an operating loss perspective and provides empirical evidence on the probability of acquirers’ operating loss in relation to ownership and capital structure. The operating performance of publicly listed manufacturing firms in China was tracked up to five years since the completion of the mergers and acquisitions (M&A) during 2003–2014.

Findings

The empirical results show that, in a five-year postacquisition period, state-owned enterprises (SOEs) are more likely to experience operating loss than non-SOEs. The likelihood of the operating loss is negatively associated with ownership concentration, implying that concentrated ownership may serve as an effective corporate governance mechanism in the emerging economy and improve postacquisition performance. The rise in leverage increases the likelihood of postacquisition operating loss, indicating that the costs of debt may outweigh the benefits.

Originality/value

The findings contribute to the literature on ownership, debt governance and post-M&A performance from an emerging economy perspective.
Reconfigurable dual element dual band MIMO antenna for 5G (Sub-6 GHz) and WLAN applications
Authors: Singh Ajit Kumar , Mahto Santosh Kumar , Sinha Rashmi
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This study aims to present dual band reconfigurable MIMO antenna for 5G (sub-6 GHz) and WLAN applications.

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve optimum bandwidth, radiation pattern and radiation efficiency, the defected ground structure (DGS) and a rectangular stub connected with the DGS are used. To further cover the sub-6 GHz spectrum (3.4–3.6 GHz) for future 5G communications, a two-element multi-input multi-output (MIMO) antenna configuration is designed by using the single element antenna. The proposed reconfigurable MIMO antenna using a PIN diode is designed on an FR4 substrate with a dielectric constant of 4.4 and a loss tangent of 0.02 and a 35 × 20 × 1.6 mm3 dimension.

Findings

The proposed antenna achieved dual operating bands of 3.4–4.1 GHz (5 G sub-6GHz applications) and 4.99–5.16 GHz (WLAN application) in the D = ON state. For D = OFF state, the proposed antenna achieved 3.55–3.65 GHz and 3.66–4.05 GHz frequency bands for 5G (sub-6GHz) applications. In terms of the envelop correlation coefficient, diversity gain, mean effective gain, total active reflection coefficient and isolation between the ports, the proposed antenna’s diversity performance characteristics are investigated and the obtained values are 0.05, 9.9 dB, ±3dB, −4dB, −15dB, respectively.

Research limitations/implications

The fabricated prototype antenna on FR4 substrate has measurable parameters that are in good agreement with the simulated findings. Due to hardware design limitations, there is a minor difference between software and hardware results.

Originality/value

The proposed MIMO antenna is compact and reconfigurable for 5G (sub-6GHz) and WLAN applications, and from the graph, the measurements and simulations have been found to be in close agreement.
On the road to Industry 4.0 in manufacturing clusters: the role of business support organisations
Authors: Dyba Wojciech , De Marchi Valentina
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the role of business support organisations (BSO) in overcoming barriers to the adoption of Industry 4.0 (I4.0) technologies, especially in disseminating knowledge on such technologies among cluster firms.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on in-depth interviews conducted in 2021 with representatives of BSO in three manufacturing clusters (furniture, metal and automotive) in the Wielkopolska region in Poland.

Findings

Companies in clusters face important barriers impeding the adoption of I4.0 technologies, in particular, the unawareness of the characteristics and potential of those technologies. BSO might be particularly helpful in overcoming this barrier by supporting knowledge dissemination among companies. This study’s analyses suggest they can do so in three roles: as knowledge gatekeepers, as brokers of purposeful knowledge transfer and as facilitators of spontaneous knowledge diffusion. Evidence suggests that different types of organisations are more likely to be associated with each of these three roles, despite such a combination of the three often being in one place: public agencies are gatekeeping, selecting and passing on certain knowledge on I4.0; research-oriented organisations (such as technology parks) play a knowledge transfer brokerage role; industry associations and cluster initiatives are actively facilitating spontaneous knowledge diffusion.

Originality/value

This paper is a contribution to the emerging literature on digital transformations of clusters by investigating the difficulties preventing firms from adopting I4.0 technologies and the roles BSO can take on to support overcoming them.
Linking an autonomy-supportive climate and employee creativity: the influence of intrinsic motivation and company support for creativity
Authors: Nili Fatemeh , Tasavori Misagh
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Employees’ creativity is critical for the growth and survival of firms. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to propose a motivational model of creativity to address the effect of an autonomy-supportive climate on employee creativity. This study investigates whether this effect is mediated by intrinsic motivation in employees and depends on company support for creativity.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a quantitative approach to collect data by conducting a survey in a developing country using paper-based questionnaires. From 220 questionnaires distributed, 151 usable survey responses were gathered for this study. In addition, structural equation modeling was used to test the hypothesis.

Findings

The results suggest a motivational contingent path through which employees’ creativity would be promoted. The findings indicate that employees in autonomy-supportive climates are more intrinsically motivated and more creative only when the company supports creativity.

Practical implications

The findings suggest that managers should provide employees with an autonomy-supportive climate. Furthermore, rewarding, recognizing and encouraging creativity in employees should be considered by companies.

Originality/value

This research integrates Amabile’s (1996) model of creativity and basic needs theory to empirically shed light on the inconsistent findings of the mediating role of intrinsic motivation in the relation of contextual factors to creativity. This study extends Amabile’s (1988) model to include an autonomy-supportive climate and explain how and when this kind of interpersonal climate contributes to enhanced creativity in employees. This research contributes to the basic needs theory by demonstrating that satisfaction of basic needs can also enhance creativity. The findings also add to the interactionist perspective of creativity because this study examines the interaction effect of company support for creativity and intrinsic motivation.
Soft quality management practices and product innovation ambidexterity: the mediating role of market orientation ambidexterity
Authors: El Manzani Younès , El Idrissi Mostapha , Lissaneddine Zakaria
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This study empirically analyzes the direct impacts of soft quality management practices (SQMP) and market orientation ambidexterity (MOA) on product innovation ambidexterity (PIA). It also examines the mediating role of MOA in the relationship between SQMP and PIA.

Design/methodology/approach

Following a quantitative research methodology, a well-structured questionnaire is used to collect data from 130 Moroccan certified ISO 9001 firms. The conceptual framework of the study was tested using partial least squares structural equation modeling.

Findings

The results show that SQMP have no significant association with PIA while they positively and significantly impact MOA. The study also revealed that MOA has a positive and significant impact on PIA and fully mediates the relationship between SQMP and PIA.

Research limitations/implications

Due to the conceptualization of MOA and PIA as combined ambidexterity, the results of the study might be different in the case of balanced ambidexterity.

Practical implications

To achieve PIA, managers need to be aware that implementing SQMP, while important, is not enough. They must invest sufficient resources to properly implement these practices to support MOA. Consequently, MOA will lead their organization to PIA by establishing the significant impact of SQMP on PIA.

Originality/value

Regardless of the abundant literature on the relationship between quality management (QM) practices and innovation, this study is among the first to examine the impact of SQMP on PIA. Using MOA as a mediator can give a meaningful answer to the indecisive empirical results of the impact of QM on innovation. Furthermore, this research contributes to the scarce literature on relevant studies conducted in developing countries.
Edgework, institutions and enhanced interrogation
Authors: Balfe Myles
Published: May 2022

The Enhanced Interrogation programme was a medicalised interrogation programme that was designed by the United States in the wake of 9/11. It is now widely recognized that the Enhanced Interrogation programme engaged in some activities that were, at the least, tantamount to torture. The programme was designed by Psychologists and overseen by other professionals, including medical professionals. This article argues that the Enhanced Interrogation programme displayed many of the features of what Sociologists refer to as Edgework. It demonstrated voluntary risk‐taking by health and other professionals; this risk‐taking pressed up against catastrophic outcomes across multiple dimensions; risks were taken for the purposes of escaping a death‐saturated macrosocial context; and the health professionals in the programme were highly skilled. The article argues that a new form of Edgework can be detected by studying the programme, which the article refers to as ‘Institutional Edgework’.
A SHADOWY ‘CITY OF LIGHT’: Private Urbanism, Large‐Scale Land Acquisition and Dispossession in Ghana
Authors: Ablo Austin Dziwornu , Bertelsen Bjørn Enge
Published: May 2022

The rapid expansion of African cities has created both housing deficits and a pluralization of urban orders, including the growth of slum settlements. With an ever‐increasing middle class, urban sub‐Saharan Africa is now also characterized by large‐scale land acquisition processes linked to the construction of wholly private and increasingly enclaved cities. This article maps the impacts of the Appolonia City of Light project—a privately built enclaved city catering to the housing needs of a rapidly growing middle class in Ghana. Building on field research and exploring various dimensions of the development marketed as ‘The City of Light’, we highlight how the project has dramatically altered social relations and resulted in dispossession rippling through nearby local communities. We therefore argue that, instead of merely focusing on the actual physical spaces of private developments or turning attention to often phantasmagoric and utopic visions of the future, research should be directed at changes in the immediate surroundings of urban developments. We highlight the problematic land acquisition inherent to such enclaved developments and demonstrate how these intrinsically constitute assemblages of livelihoods and exemplify dynamics of appropriation, dispossession and commodification.
Light‐dependent niche differentiation in two mixotrophic bacterivores
Authors: Fischer Robert , Kitzwögerer Julia , Ptacnik Robert
Published: May 2022

Mixotrophy usually is considered with respect to the advantages gained and the associated trade‐offs of this form of nutrition, compared to specialized competitors, strict photoautotrophs and heterotrophs. However, we currently have an incomplete understanding of the functional diversity of mixotrophs and the factors controlling niche differentiation in different mixotrophic species. Here we experimentally studied the light‐dependent niche differentiation in two chrysophyte species. We show that the newly isolated Ochromonas sp. is an obligate phototroph and possibly an obligate mixotroph. In contrast, Poterioochromonas malhamensis is a facultative mixotroph; photosynthesis and heterotrophy in this species represent substitutable routes of resource acquisition. We further hypothesize that the variable plasticity in the considered traits of the here tested species may result in different niche differentiation with regard to a vertical light gradient. Ochromonas sp. should perform better in stable stratified surface water layers, where light is available, but prey abundances might be low. However, P. malhamensis should be able to also successfully grow in deeper water layers, benefiting from higher bacterial production. This study represents a first step towards understanding competition between mixotrophs engaging in different physiological strategies, and consequently their potential co‐occurrence due to niche differentiation.
Parental and training coaches’ knowledge and attitude towards dental trauma management of children
Authors: Tian J , Lim JJJ , Moh FKC , Siddiqi A , Zachar J , Zafar S
Published: May 2022

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate parental and training coaches’ knowledge and attitude towards traumatic dental injuries (TDIs) among children.

Material and Methods

A 31‐item questionnaire was distributed to the parents and training coaches attending local sporting clubs in Brisbane region, Australia. The questionnaire consisted of five parts (i) demographic and professional information; (ii) TDIs in the primary dentition; (iii) fractures and subluxation of permanent teeth (iv) avulsion of permanent teeth, and (v) information and knowledge related to the management of traumatized teeth. The jamovi (Version 1.6.3) and GraphPad Prism were used for data analysis.

Results

A total of 233 participants were surveyed, 211 parents and 22 coaches. Of all types of injuries, parental knowledge of managing avulsion to permanent teeth was poorest (9.5%), followed by management of injuries of primary teeth (17.5%) and management of fractures or subluxation of permanent teeth (29.4%). Parents in health care occupations had higher satisfaction on self‐knowledge in managing TDIs however there was no significant difference in knowledge levels between health care personnel and other professions (P = 0.128). There was a discrepancy between the lack of knowledge and willingness to further self‐educate with online platforms being the preferred medium.

Conclusion

The study showed a gap in parents’ and training coaches’ knowledge regarding the management of TDIs among children.
If your ears are burning we must be talking about red ear syndrome: A brief report
Authors: Courtney Ashling , Holmes Zack , Weston Stephanie
Published: May 2022

Red Ear Syndrome is an uncommon disorder that can affect all age groups. It is frequently referred to Dermatology as it can present similarly to erythromelalgia. Although the exact pathophysiology is unknown, a common hypothesis suggests a shared pathophysiological background with migraine due to their well‐known association. Currently, there are no established treatment guidelines. Delays in accurate diagnosis and commencing optimal treatment can significantly negatively impact on a patients quality of life. We discuss the clinical presentation and response to treatment of a case of Red Ear Syndrome in an 8‐year‐old boy.
The impact of systemic psoriasis treatments on human papillomavirus activation and propagation
Authors: Korecka Katarzyna , Wiśniewska‐Szymańska Anna , Mikiel Dominik
Published: May 2022

Psoriasis is one of the most prevalent diseases in the world and it affects up to 2% of the worldwide population. Its pathogenesis is complex and the lesions may be triggered by multiple factors. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is associated with anogenital cancers, cutaneous warts and is considered one of the most prevalent infections in the world. In this review, the available literature on the systemic treatment of patients with psoriasis and concomitant HPV infection was analysed.
Differences in psychosocial distress among rural and metropolitan health care workers during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Tham Rachel , Pascoe Amy , Willis Karen , Kay Margaret , Smallwood Natasha
Published: May 2022

Objective

The Australian COVID‐19 Frontline Healthcare Workers study examined the prevalence and severity of mental health symptoms during the second wave of the COVID‐19 pandemic. This substudy examined the differences in psychological well‐being between rural and metropolitan health care workers (HCWs).

Design

A nationwide survey conducted between August and October 2020.

Setting and Participants

Australian HCWs were recruited through multiple strategies.

Main outcome measures

Demographics, mental health outcomes (anxiety, depression, post‐traumatic stress disorder [PTSD] and burnout).

Results

Complete responses were included from 7846 participants, with 1473 (18.8%) in regional or remote (‘rural’) areas and 81.2% in metropolitan areas. Rural participants were older, more likely to work in allied health, nursing or in health administration, and had worked longer in their profession than metropolitan participants. Levels of resilience were similar (p = 0.132), but there was significantly higher prevalence of pre‐COVID‐19 pandemic mental illness in the rural workforce (p < 0.001). There were high levels of current mental health issues: moderate–severe PTSD (rural 38.0%; metropolitan 41.0% p = 0.031); high depersonalisation (rural 18.1%; metropolitan 20.7% p = 0.047); and high emotional exhaustion (rural 46.5%; metropolitan 43.3% p = 0.002). Among rural participants, mental health symptoms were associated with younger age, worry about being blamed if they contracted COVID‐19, fear of transmitting COVID‐19 to their family, experiencing worsening relationships and working in primary care or allied health.

Conclusion

Despite having low COVID‐19 case numbers in rural Australian health services compared with metropolitan counterparts over the course of 2020, there were widespread mental health impacts on the workforce. Rural health services need specific and flexible training, education, work policies and practices that support psychological well‐being now in preparedness for ongoing or future crises.
Short‐term oncological and surgical outcomes of robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy: A retrospective multicenter cohort study in Japan (the MSUG94 group)
Authors: Kato Daiki , Ebara Shin , Tatenuma Tomoyuki , Sasaki Takeshi , Ikehata Yoshinori , Nakayama Akinori , Toide Masahiro , Yoneda Tatsuaki , Sakaguchi Kazushige , Teishima Jun , Makiyama Kazuhide , Inoue Takahiro , Kitamura Hiroshi , Saito Kazutaka , Koga Fumitaka , Urakami Shinji , Koie Takuya
Published: May 2022

Introduction

We evaluated oncological outcomes of patients undergoing robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) for prostate cancer (PCa) and their perioperative complications in Japan. We investigated clinical and pathological covariates to predict biochemical recurrence (BCR) after RARP.

Methods

A retrospective multicenter cohort study was conducted in RARP patients with PCa at 10 institutions in Japan. Pre‐ and postoperative covariates were collected from enrolled patients. The primary endpoint was defined as biochemical recurrence‐free survival (BRFS). Additionally, the association between BCR and clinicopathological covariates was determined.

Results

We enrolled 2670 patients in this study. The median follow‐up period was 26.0 months. RARP‐related perioperative complications were identified in 198 patients (7.4%), including 69 patients (2.6%) with grade 3/4 complications according to the Clavien–Dindo classification. The 2‐year BRFS was 88.0%. Using the Kaplan–Meier method, initial prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) level of ≤7.6 ng/mL, biopsy and pathological Gleason score (GS) of ≤7, clinical and pathological T1/2, and low/intermediate risks according to the National Comprehensive Cancer Network risk classification, and negative surgical margin status had significant BRFS than their counterparts. In multivariate analysis, initial PSA, biopsy and pathological GS, clinical and pathological T stage, and surgical margin status significantly correlated with BCR after RARP.

Conclusion

In this study, RARP achieved a lower incidence of perioperative complications than other studies.
Medication compliance aids unpackaged: A national survey
Authors: Walters Sharmila , Chakravorty Mollika , McLachlan Sophie , Odone Jessica , Stevenson Jennifer M. , Minshull John , Schiff Rebekah
Published: May 2022

Aims

Sixty‐four million pharmacy‐filled multicompartment medication compliance aids (MCAs) are dispensed by pharmacies in England each year. Despite the widespread use of MCAs and evidence that their use may be associated with harm there is no national consensus regarding MCA provision by acute hospital Trusts in England. The aim was to determine current practice for initiation and supply of MCAs in acute hospital Trusts in England and the potential consequences for patients and hospitals.

Methods

A 26‐item survey was distributed to all acute hospital Trusts in England. The questionnaire covered: policy, initiation, supply and review of MCAs; alternatives offered; and pharmacy staffing and capacity related to MCAs.

Results

Seventy‐two out of 138 (52%) Trusts responded to the survey: 70 Trusts responded regarding policy for MCA provision, with 60 (86%) having a policy regarding this; 33/55 (60%) that supplied MCAs on discharge supplied a different prescription length for MCA vs. non‐MCA prescriptions; 49/55 (89%) Trusts provided only 1 brand of MCA; 47/55 (85%) MCA‐supplying Trusts identified frequent difficulties with MCAs and 13/55 (24%) reported employing staff specifically to complete MCAs; and 30/35 (86%) MCA‐initiating Trusts had an assessment process for initiation, with care agency request reportedly the most common reason for initiation.

Conclusion

There is a lack of a national approach to MCA provision and initiation by acute hospital Trusts in England. This leads to significant variation in care and has the potential to put MCA users at an increased risk of medication‐related harm.
Sodium‐glucose co‐transporter‐2 inhibitors in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction: Current evidence and future perspectives
Authors: Jensen Jesper , Omar Massar , Kistorp Caroline , Gustafsson Finn , Køber Lars , Møller Jacob Eifer , Schou Morten
Published: May 2022

Background

The sodium‐glucose co‐transporter‐2 (SGLT2) inhibitors were developed as glucose‐lowering drugs to treat type 2 diabetes (T2D). However, significant reductions in clinical outcomes have now been demonstrated in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), irrespective of the presence of T2D. Multiple hypotheses have been proposed for the underlying mechanisms, and the data to support these proposals are emerging.

Objectives

To review the clinical outcome data with SGLT2 inhibitors in HFrEF and the data to support the mechanisms for these clinical effects.

Methods

Literature review was supported by a PubMed search for relevant articles up to 19 April 2022.

Findings

Current data support increased diuresis and reverse cardiac remodelling as important mechanisms for the reductions in heart failure hospitalizations and mortality observed with SGLT2 inhibitors (empagliflozin or dapagliflozin) in patients with HFrEF. Alteration in intrarenal haemodynamic is likely contributing to the observed renoprotective effect of SGLT2 inhibitors.

Conclusions

Solid clinical data support the current recommendations to use empagliflozin or dapagliflozin in HFrEF. The underlying mechanisms likely include changes in cardiac and intrarenal haemodynamic. Yet, these mechanisms do not seem to solely explain the observed magnitude of clinical effect with SGLT2 inhibitors in HFrEF, and other mechanisms may contribute.
Damage in hidradenitis suppurativa: receiving the deserved attention
Authors: Aarts Pim , van der Zee Hessel H.
Published: May 2022

Linked Article: Fritsche et al. Br J Dermatol 2022; 187:288–294.
I do it for the children, and it's not a walk in the park: Parents' stories about how to maintain cooperative co‐parenting during the divorce process
Authors: Eikrem Trine , Jevne Kari Sjøhelle
Published: May 2022

This article explores the transition of cooperative co‐parenting during the divorce process. Eighteen parents, representing eight co‐parenting pairs and two individuals who had just undergone mandatory mediation for parents applying for separation, participated in the study. Through in‐depth interviews with parents who were classified as cooperative during the mediation process, we examined how theyreasonand the struggles they face during the divorce transition. The study applied a sociocultural perspective, focusing on the cultural ideals of equal parenthood, and used the concepts ofboundariesandshared careas analytical tools. A main finding is that maintaining cooperative co‐parenting requires hard work, even in no‐or low‐conflict divorces, but the parents do it for their children. The results showed that the transforming process involved efforts to (1) continue established parenting practices, (2) shield the children and (3) deal with their own emotions. The underlying premises for successful co‐parenting are trust in each other's ability to take care of the children and their own knowledge of the emotional bonds between the children and each parent. In turn, these premises motivate parents to manage their own emotional turmoil.
Testing bats in rehabilitation for SARS‐CoV‐2 before release into the wild
Authors: Jones Scott , Bell Thomas , Coleman Christopher M. , Harris Danielle , Woodward Guy , Worledge Lisa , Roberts Helen , McElhinney Lorraine , Aegerter James , Ransome Emma , Savolainen Vincent
Published: May 2022

Several studies have suggested SARS‐CoV‐2 originated from a viral ancestor in bats, but whether transmission occurred directly or via an intermediary host to humans remains unknown. Concerns of spillover of SARS‐CoV‐2 into wild bat populations are hindering bat rehabilitation and conservation efforts in the United Kingdom and elsewhere. Current protocols state that animals cared for by individuals who have tested positive for SARS‐CoV‐2 cannot be released into the wild and must be isolated to reduce the risk of transmission to wild populations. Here, we propose a reverse transcription‐quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR)‐based protocol for detection of SARS‐CoV‐2 in bats, using fecal sampling. Bats from the United Kingdom were tested following suspected exposure to SARS‐CoV‐2 and tested negative for the virus. With current UK and international legislation, the identification of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in wild animals is becoming increasingly important, and protocols such as the one developed here will help improve understanding and mitigation of SARS‐CoV‐2 in the future.
Modelling failure rates with machine‐learning models: Evidence from a panel of UK firms
Authors: Sermpinis Georgios , Tsoukas Serafeim , Zhang Yiqun
Published: May 2022

In this study, we investigate the ability of machine‐learning techniques to predict firm failures and we compare them against alternatives. Using data on business and financial risks of UK firms over 1994–2019, we document that machine‐learning models are systematically more accurate than a discrete hazard benchmark. We conclude that the random forest model outperforms other models in failure prediction. In addition, we show that the improved predictive power of the random forest model relative to its counterparts persists when we consider extreme economic events as well as firm and industry heterogeneity. Finally, we find that financial factors affect failure probabilities.
Body fat, pericardial fat, liver fat and arterial health at age 10 years
Authors: Monasso Giulietta S. , Santos Susana , Silva Carolina C. V. , Geurtsen Madelon L. , Oei Edwin , Gaillard Romy , Felix Janine F. , Jaddoe Vincent W. V.
Published: May 2022

Background

Body mass index is associated with carotid intima‐media thickness and distensibility in adults and children.

Objective

To examine whether general and specific fat depots are associated with these markers of arterial health at school age.

Methods

This cross‐sectional analysis was embedded in a population‐based prospective cohort study among 4708 children aged 10 years. Body, lean and fat mass index were estimated by dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry. Pericardial, visceral and liver fat were estimated by magnetic resonance imaging. Carotid intima‐media thickness and distensibility were measured by ultrasound.

Results

A 1‐standard‐deviation‐score (SDS) higher body mass index was associated with higher carotid intima‐media thickness (0.06 SDS, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.03–0.08) and lower distensibility (−0.17 SDS, 95% CI: −0.20 to −0.14). These associations tended to be similar for lean mass index. A 1‐SDS higher fat mass index was associated with lower carotid intima‐media thickness (−0.08 SDS, 95% CI: −0.11 to −0.05) and lower distensibility (−0.10 SDS, 95% CI: −0.14 to −0.07). A 1‐SDS higher liver fat fraction was associated with lower carotid intima‐media thickness (−0.04 SDS, 95% CI: −0.08 to −0.00) and lower distensibility (−0.06 SDS, 95% CI: −0.10 to −0.03). We observed similar associations for visceral fat.

Conclusions

At school age, lean and fat mass seem to be differentially related to carotid intima‐media thickness but not distensibility. Arterial development might be affected by lean mass, general and specific fat mass.
Determinants of rapid infant weight gain: A pooled analysis of seven cohorts
Authors: Zheng Miaobing , Hesketh Kylie D. , Vuillermin Peter , Dodd Jodie , Wen Li Ming , Baur Louise A. , Taylor Rachael , Byrne Rebecca , Mihrshahi Seema , Sly Peter D. , Tang Mimi L. K. , Campbell Karen J.
Published: May 2022

Objective

Rapid weight gain (RWG) in infancy is strongly associated with subsequent obesity risk, but little is known about the factors driving RWG. This study explored the child and maternal factors associated with infant RWG.

Methods

Data from seven Australian and New Zealand cohorts were used (n = 4542). Infant RWG was defined as a change in weight z‐score ≥0.67 from birth to age 1 year. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression assessed the association between child and maternal factors and infant RWG in each cohort. Meta‐analysis was conducted to obtain pooled effect sizes.

Results

Multivariable analyses revealed boys were more likely to experience RWG (OR 1.42 95% CI 1.22, 1.66) than girls. Higher birth weight in kg (OR 0.09, 95% CI 0.04, 0.20) and gestational age in weeks (OR 0.69, 95% CI 0.48, 0.98) were associated with lower RWG risk. Children who were breastfed for ≥6 months showed lower RWG risk (OR 0.45, 95% CI 0.38, 0.53). Children of native‐born versus overseas‐born women appeared to have higher RWG risk (OR 1.37, 95% CI 0.99, 1.90). Maternal smoking during pregnancy increased RWG risk (OR 1.60, 95% CI 1.28, 2.01), whereas children who started solids ≥6 months (OR 0.77, 95% CI 0.63, 0.93) and children with siblings (OR 0.68, 95% CI 0.57, 0.81) showed lower RWG risk in univariable analysis, but these associations were attenuated in multivariable analysis. No association was found for maternal age, education, marital status and pre‐pregnancy BMI.

Conclusion

Maternal country of birth, smoking status, child sex, birth weight, gestational age, infant feeding and parity were potential determinants of infant RWG.
Speak truth to power and consolidate the nursing visibility gained during COVID‐19
Authors: McDonald Tracey
Published: May 2022

Aim

To provide a perspective on the visibility of nursing gained during the COVID‐19 pandemic and propose strategic options for nurses to consolidate their expanded roles and influence.

Background

The COVID‐19 pandemic has exposed long‐standing inequities across the world. Factors preserving discrimination weakened during the emergency are now being re‐established by neo‐liberalist influences that dismiss the true scale of the disaster and shape the narrative in ways that increase public risk and render nurses invisible.

Sources of Evidence

All evidence drawn from publicly available sources is presented through the lens of the authors' nursing, management, education, policy and research experience.

Discussion

Nurse advocacy will be needed during future decades of pandemic control and recovery and be in a position to deliver appropriate care and services.

Conclusion

For nurses at all levels to remain visible, important, valued and respected, they need to be informed, engaged and willing to make a stand to preserve the hard‐won reputational gains of the last 30 months of the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Implications for Nursing Practice

Nurse advocacy and engagement are needed to maintain public awareness of the ongoing risks and safety options associated with the pandemic.

Implications for Health and Social Policy

Nurses and other health practitioners need to reveal the true level of devastation that continues to occur and guide the focus of political and administrative strategies in response to COVID‐19 impacts on services and public health orders.
Mission and Unity
Authors: Wirth Lauri Emilio
Published: May 2022

This article discusses the historical conditions of the insertion of Christianity in Latin America. It points to the links between a colonizing project and Christian missions on that continent. The Christianity that settled here from the 16th century onward was marked by conflicts and controversies. Oppression and war against native populations were often justified as a necessary condition for evangelization. The political and theological disputes over the Protestant Reformation in Europe had repercussions on the continent as one more factor to intensify the conflict. Thus, one of the main structuring axes of the first notion of Christian unity on the continent was the exclusion of the other. However, in this context a prophetic Christianity also emerged out of compassion for the victims of the colonizing process. This article highlights central aspects of this Christianity of liberation that today still challenge missionary practices, but not only in Latin America. An evangelizing methodology conceived out of the living conditions of victims of oppressive systems questions even the missionary strategies of Protestant denominations active on the continent from the 19th century onwards, especially with regard to their civilizing ideal of local cultures. A careful and judicious look at the past of Christianization in Latin America can offer motivation for practices of ecumenical coexistence between different faiths, challenged by the pain of today's world and in solidarity with the victims of our consumer society.
Christ’s Love Moves the World to Reconciliation and Unity
Authors: George Samuel
Published: May 2022

Where there is Christ’s love, there ought to be reconciliation and unity. The absence of tangible reconciliation and concrete unity is the absence of Christ’s love itself. Disability theology exposes that traditionally, discussions on reconciliation and unity have seldom considered the perspectives of people with disabilities. Therefore, any discussion on reconciliation and unity is incomplete without the inclusion of perspectives of these people.