bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Social mixing patterns in the UK following the relaxation of COVID-19 pandemic restrictions: a cross-sectional online survey
Authors: Bridgen Jessica RE , Jewell Chris P , Read Jonathan M
Published: October 2021

Background

Since 23 March 2020, social distancing measures have been implemented in the UK to reduce SARS-CoV-2 transmission. We conducted a cross-sectional survey to quantify and characterize non-household contact and to identify the effect of shielding and isolating on contact patterns.

Methods

Through an online questionnaire, the CoCoNet study measured daily interactions and mobility of 5143 participants between 28 July and 14 August 2020. Negative binomial regression modelling identified participant characteristics associated with contact rates.

Results

The mean rate of non-household contacts per person was 2.9 d-1. Participants attending a workplace (adjusted incidence rate ratio (aIRR) 3.33, 95%CI 3.02 to 3.66), self-employed (aIRR 1.63, 95%CI 1.43 to 1.87) or working in healthcare (aIRR 5.10, 95%CI 4.29 to 6.10) reported significantly higher non-household contact rates than those working from home. Participants self-isolating as a precaution or following Test and Trace instructions had a lower non-household contact rate than those not self-isolating (aIRR 0.58, 95%CI 0.43 to 0.79). We found limited evidence that those shielding had reduced non-household contacts compared to non-shielders.

Conclusion

The daily rate of non-household interactions remains lower than pre-pandemic levels, suggesting continued adherence to social distancing guidelines. Individuals attending a workplace in-person or employed as healthcare professionals were less likely to maintain social distance and had a higher non-household contact rate, possibly increasing their infection risk. Shielding and self-isolating individuals required greater support to enable them to follow the government guidelines and reduce non-household contact and therefore their risk of infection.

Summary box

What is already known on this subject?

The introduction of social distancing guidelines in March 2020 reduced social contact rates in the UK.

Evidence of low levels of adherence to self-isolation.

What does this study add?

This study provides quantitative insight into the social mixing patterns in the UK at the beginning of the second wave of SARS-CoV2 infection.

Healthcare professionals and individuals attending their workplace in-person were less able to follow social distancing guidelines and made more contact with people outside their household than those working from home.

Shielding individuals did not make fewer non-household contacts than those not shielding.
Aligning staffing schedules with testing and isolation strategies reduces the risk of COVID-19 outbreaks in carceral and other congregate settings: A simulation study
Authors: Hoover Christopher M. , Skaff Nicholas K. , Blumberg Seth , Fukunaga Rena
Published: October 2021

COVID-19 outbreaks in congregate settings remain a serious threat to the health of disproportionately affected populations such as people experiencing incarceration or homelessness, the elderly, and essential workers. An individual-based model accounting for individual infectiousness over time, staff work schedules, and testing and isolation schedules was developed to simulate community transmission of SARS-CoV-2 to staff in a congregate facility and subsequent transmission within the facility that could cause an outbreak. Systematic testing strategies in which staff are tested on the first day of their workweek were found to prevent up to 16% more transmission events than testing strategies unrelated to staff schedules. Testing staff at the beginning of their workweek, implementing timely isolation following testing, limiting test turnaround time, and increasing test frequency in high transmission scenarios can supplement additional mitigation measures to aid outbreak prevention in congregate settings.

Article summary line

Aligning routine testing with work schedules among staff in carceral facilities and other congregate settings can enhance the early detection and isolation of COVID-19 cases, limiting the potential for staff to inadvertently trigger outbreaks in high-risk settings.
Conjugative transfer of naturally occurring plasmids in Mycolicibacterium sp
Authors: Morgado Sergio , Vicente Ana Carolina
Published: October 2021

Conjugation is considered the main horizontal gene transfer (HGT) mechanism in bacterial adaptation and evolution. In the Mycobacteriaceae family, Mycolicibacterium smegmatis has been used as the model organism for the conjugative transfer of hybrid plasmids. However, the natural conjugation process in any bacteria would involve the transfer of naturally occurring plasmids. Currently, there is a gap in this regard in relation to this abundant environmental genus of Mycobacteriaceae. Here, we performed conjugation experiments between wild Mycolicibacterium sp. strains involving naturally occurring plasmids (sizes of 21 and 274 kb), and interestingly, evidence of conjugative transfer was obtained. Thus, it is likely that conjugation occurs in Mycolicibacterium in the natural environment, representing a source of diversification and evolution in this genus of bacteria.
Single-cell transcriptional analysis of the immune tumour microenvironment during myeloma disease evolution
Authors: Croucher Danielle C. , Richards Laura M. , Waller Daniel , Li Zhihua , Huang Xian Fang , Chesi Marta , Bergsagel P. Leif , Sebag Michael , Pugh Trevor J. , Trudel Suzanne
Published: October 2021

Multiple myeloma is universally preceded by a premalignant disease state. However, efforts to develop preventative therapeutic strategies are hindered by an incomplete understanding of the immune mechanisms associated with progression. Using single-cell RNA-sequencing, we profiled 104,880 cells derived from the bone marrow of Vκ*MYC mice across the myeloma progression spectrum, of which 97,720 were identified as non-malignant cells of the tumour microenvironment. Analysis of the non-malignant cells comprising the immune microenvironment identified mechanisms associated with disease progression in innate and adaptive immune cell populations. This included activation of IL-17 signaling in myeloid cells from precursor mice, accompanied by upregulation of Il6 gene expression in basophils. In the T/Natural killer cell compartment, we identified Tox-expressing CD8+ T cells enriched in the tumour microenvironment of mice with overt disease, with co-expression of LAG3 and PD-1, as well as elevated T cell exhaustion signatures in mice with early disease. We subsequently showed that early intervention with combinatorial blockade of LAG3 and PD-1 using neutralizing monoclonal antibodies delayed tumor progression and improved survival of Vκ*MYC mice. Together, this work provides insight into the biology of myeloma evolution and nominates a treatment strategy for early disease.
Inactivation of SARS Coronavirus 2 and COVID-19 patient samples for contemporary immunology and metabolomics studies
Authors: Eddins Devon J. , Bassit Leda , Chandler Joshua D. , Haddad Natalie S. , Musall Katie L. , Yang Junkai , Kosters Astrid , Dobosh Brian S. , Hernández Mindy R. , Ramonell Richard P. , Tirouvanziam Rabindra M. , Lee F. Eun-Hyung , Zandi Keivan , Schinazi Raymond F. , Ghosn Eliver E.B.
Published: October 2021

In late 2019, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) emerged from Wuhan, China spurring the Coronavirus Disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic that has resulted in over 219 million confirmed cases and nearly 4.6 million deaths worldwide. Intensive research efforts ensued to constrain SARS-CoV-2 and reduce COVID-19 disease burden. Due to the severity of this disease, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO) recommend that manipulation of active viral cultures of SARS-CoV-2 and respiratory secretions from COVID-19 patients be performed in biosafety level 3 (BSL3) containment laboratories. Therefore, it is imperative to develop viral inactivation procedures that permit samples to be transferred and manipulated at lower containment levels (i.e., BSL2), and maintain the fidelity of downstream assays to expedite the development of medical countermeasures (MCMs). We demonstrate optimal conditions for complete viral inactivation following fixation of infected cells with paraformaldehyde solution or other commonly-used branded reagents for flow cytometry, UVC inactivation in sera and respiratory secretions for protein and antibody detection assays, heat inactivation following cDNA amplification of single-cell emulsions for droplet-based single-cell mRNA sequencing applications, and extraction with an organic solvent for metabolomic studies. Thus, we provide a suite of protocols for viral inactivation of SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19 patient samples for downstream contemporary immunology assays that facilitate sample transfer to BSL2, providing a conceptual framework for rapid initiation of high-fidelity research as the COVID-19 pandemic continues.
ARP2/3- and resection-coupled genome reorganization facilitates translocations
Authors: Zagelbaum Jennifer , Schooley Allana , Zhao Junfei , Schrank Benjamin R. , Callen Elsa , Zha Shan , Gottesman Max E. , Nussenzweig André , Rabadan Raul , Dekker Job , Gautier Jean
Published: October 2021

DNA end-resection and nuclear actin-based movements orchestrate clustering of double-strand breaks (DSBs) into homology-directed repair (HDR) domains. Here, we analyze how actin nucleation by ARP2/3 affects damage-dependent and -independent 3D genome reorganization and facilitates pathologic repair. We observe that DNA damage, followed by ARP2/3-dependent establishment of repair domains enhances local chromatin insulation at a set of damage-proximal boundaries and affects compartment organization genome-wide. Nuclear actin polymerization also promotes interactions between DSBs, which in turn facilitates aberrant intra- and inter-chromosomal rearrangements. Notably, BRCA1 deficiency, which decreases end-resection, DSB mobility, and subsequent HDR, nearly abrogates recurrent translocations between AsiSI DSBs. In contrast, loss of functional BRCA1 yields unique translocations genome-wide, reflecting a critical role in preventing spontaneous genome instability and subsequent rearrangements. Our work establishes that the assembly of DSB repair domains is coordinated with multiscale alterations in genome architecture that enable HDR despite increased risk of translocations with pathologic potential.
A Biodegradable, Tacrolimus-releasing Nerve Wrap Promotes Peripheral Nerve Regeneration
Authors: Daeschler Simeon C. , Chan Katelyn , Feinberg Konstantin , Manoraj Marina , Cheung Jenny , Zhang Jennifer , Mirmoeini Kaveh , Santerre J. Paul , Gordon Tessa , Borschel Gregory H.
Published: October 2021

Axonal regeneration following nerve repair is slow and often incomplete, resulting in poor functional recovery and sometimes lifelong disability. Yet, there are no FDA-approved therapies available to promote nerve regeneration. Tacrolimus accelerates axonal regeneration, but systemic side-effects presently outweigh its potential benefits for peripheral nerve surgery. We have developed a biodegradable drug delivery system for the sustained local release of tacrolimus at the nerve repair site, with suitable properties for large-scale manufacturing and clinical application, aiming to promote axonal regeneration and functional recovery with minimal systemic drug exposure. Tacrolimus is encapsulated in polycarbonate-urethane nanofibers and electrospun to generate an implantable nerve wrap that releases therapeutic doses of bioactive tacrolimus over 31 days. Size and drug loading are adjustable for applications in small and large caliber nerves, and the wrap degrades within 120 days into biocompatible byproducts. Tacrolimus released from the nerve wrap promotes axon elongation in vitro and accelerates nerve regeneration and functional recovery in preclinical nerve repair models while systemic drug exposure is reduced by 80% compared to systemic delivery. Given its surgical suitability and preclinical efficacy and safety, this system may provide a readily translatable approach to support axonal regeneration and recovery in patients undergoing nerve surgery.
Kinetic and data-driven modeling of pancreatic β-cell central carbon metabolism and insulin secretion
Authors: Gelbach Patrick E. , Zheng Dongqing , Fraser Scott E. , White Kate , Graham Nicholas A. , Finley Stacey D.
Published: October 2021

Pancreatic β-cells respond to increased extracellular glucose levels by initiating a metabolic shift. That change in metabolism is part of the process of glucose-stimulated insulin secretion and is of particular interest in the context of diabetes. However, we do not fully understand how the coordinated changes in metabolic pathways and metabolite products influence insulin secretion. In this work, we apply systems biology approaches to develop a detailed kinetic model of the intracellular central carbon metabolic pathways in pancreatic β-cells upon stimulation with high levels of glucose. The model is calibrated to published metabolomics datasets for the INS1 823/13 cell line, accurately capturing the measured metabolite fold-changes. We first employed the calibrated mechanistic model to estimate the stimulated cell’s fluxome. We then used the predicted network fluxes in a data-driven approach to build a partial least squares regression model. By developing the combined kinetic and data-driven modeling framework, we gain insights into the link between β-cell metabolism and glucose-stimulated insulin secretion. The combined modeling framework was used to predict the effects of common anti-diabetic pharmacological interventions on metabolite levels, flux through the metabolic network, and insulin secretion. Our simulations reveal targets that can be modulated to enhance insulin secretion. The model is a promising tool to contextualize and extend the usefulness of metabolomics data and to predict dynamics and metabolite levels that are difficult to measure in vitro. In addition, the modeling framework can be applied to identify, explain, and assess novel and clinically-relevant interventions that may be particularly valuable in diabetes treatment.

Author Summary

Diabetes is among the most common chronic illnesses, occurring when the β-cells in the pancreas are unable to produce enough insulin to properly manage the body’s blood sugar levels. β-cells metabolize nutrients to produce energy needed for insulin secretion in response to high glucose, and there is a potential to harness β-cell metabolism for treating diabetes. However, β-cell metabolism is not fully characterized. We have developed a computational modeling framework to better understand the relationship between cellular metabolism and insulin production in the pancreatic β-cell. With this modeling framework, we are able to simulate metabolic perturbations, such as the knockdown of the activity of a metabolic enzyme, and predict the effect on the metabolic network and on insulin production. This work can therefore be applied to investigate, in a time- and cost-efficient manner, β-cell metabolism and predict effective therapies that target the cell’s metabolic network.
Discovery and biosynthesis of persiathiacins: Unusual polyglycosylated thiopeptides active against multi-drug resistant tuberculosis
Authors: Dashti Yousef , Mohammadipanah Fatemeh , Belousoff Matthew , Vocat Anthony , Zabala Daniel , Fage Christopher D , Romero-Canelon Isolda , Bunk Boyke , Spröer Cathrin , Overmann Jörg , Cole Stewart T , Challis Gregory L
Published: October 2021

Thiopeptides are ribosomally biosynthesized and post-translationally modified peptides (RiPPs) that potently inhibit the growth of Gram-positive bacteria by targeting multiple steps in protein biosynthesis. The poor pharmacological properties of thiopeptides, in particular their low aqueous solubility, has hindered their development into clinically useful antibiotics. Antimicrobial activity screens of a library of Actinobacterial extracts led to discovery of the novel polyglycosylated thiopeptides persiathiacins A and B from Actinokineospora sp. UTMC 2475 and Actinokineospora sp. UTMC 2448. Persiathiacin A is active against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and several Mycobacterium tuberculosis strains, including drug-resistant and multidrug-resistant clinical isolates, and does not significantly affect the growth of ovarian cancer cells at concentrations up to 400 μM. In vitro translation assays showed that, like other thiopeptide antibiotics, persiathiacin A targets protein biosynthesis. Polyglycosylated thiopeptides are extremely rare and nothing is known about their biosynthesis. Sequencing and analysis of the Actinokineospora sp. UTMC 2448 genome enabled identification of the putative persiathiacin biosynthetic gene cluster. A cytochrome P450 encoded by this gene cluster catalyses the hydroxylation of nosiheptide in vitro and in vivo, consistent with the proposal that the cluster directs persiathiacin biosynthesis. Several genes in the cluster encode homologues of enzymes known to catalyse the assembly and attachment of deoxysugars during the biosynthesis of other classes of glycosylated natural products. The discovery of the persiathiacins and their biosynthetic gene cluster thus provides the basis for the development of biosynthetic engineering approaches to the creation of novel (poly)glycosylated thiopeptide derivatives with enhanced pharmacological properties.
Experimental microevolution of Trypanosoma cruzi reveals hybridization and clonal mechanisms driving rapid diversification of genome sequence and structure
Authors: Matos Gabriel M. , Lewis Michael D. , Talavera-López Carlos , Yeo Matthew , Grisard Edmundo C. , Messenger Louisa A. , Miles Michael A. , Andersson Björn
Published: October 2021

Protozoa and fungi are known to have extraordinarily diverse mechanisms of genetic exchange. However, the presence and epidemiological relevance of genetic exchange in Trypanosoma cruzi, the agent of Chagas disease, has been controversial and debated for many years. Field studies have identified both predominantly clonal and sexually recombining natural populations. Two of six natural T. cruzi lineages (TcV and TcVI) show hybrid mosaicism, using analysis of single-gene locus markers. The formation of hybrid strains in vitro has been achieved and this provides a framework to study the mechanisms and adaptive significance of genetic exchange. Using whole genome sequencing of a set of experimental hybrids strains, we have confirmed that hybrid formation initially results in tetraploid parasites. The hybrid progeny showed novel mutations that were not attributable to either (diploid) parent showing an increase in amino acid changes. In long-term culture, up to 800 generations, there was progressive, gradual erosion of progeny genomes towards triploidy, yet retention of elevated copy number was observed at several core housekeeping loci. Our findings indicate hybrid formation by fusion of diploid T. cruzi, followed by sporadic genome erosion, but with substantial potential for adaptive evolution, as has been described as a genetic feature of other organisms, such as some fungi.
Diverse group effectiveness: co-occurrence of task and relationship conflict, and transformational leadership
Authors: Dahlan Mohanad , Al-Atwi Amer Ali , Alshaibani Elham , Bakir Ali , Maher Kevin
Published: October 2021

Purpose

This study aims to develop a theoretical integrated model examining the role of the co-occurrence of task and relationship conflict (CTRC) as a mediator in the relationship between diversity and group effectiveness. The model also examines transformational leadership (TFL) as a moderator in this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected using a questionnaire survey from 354 faculty in 56 workgroups from three private universities in the Middle East. SEM and hierarchical regression analysis were used to test the suitability of the model and its hypotheses.

Findings

The results revealed that TFL moderated diversity's direct effect on CTRC as well as the indirect effect linking diversity, CTRC, and group effectiveness. Specifically, diversity had an inverted U-shaped relationship with CTRC in groups with low TFL, but a negative linear relationship in those with high TFL.

Originality/value

The findings expand understanding of how, and under what conditions, diversity influences group effectiveness by: offering a fresh treatment of this relationship, introducing CTRC as a bivariate construct and bringing into focus the centrality of its harmful effect on this association, and highlighting the influence of TFL in ameliorating this harmful effect.
A model to evaluate the acceptance and usefulness of enterprise architecture for digitalization of cities
Authors: Anthony Jnr Bokolo , Petersen Sobah Abbas , Krogstie John
Published: October 2021

Purpose

Enterprise architecture (EA) is usually adopted as an approach for managing enterprise complexities and aligning business and information technology (IT) capabilities. Although IT practitioners and researchers agree about the potential applicability and benefits of EA in smart cities, little is known about the factors that influence the acceptance and usefulness of EA in smart cities. Thus, EA acceptance and usage remains a central concern of urban research and practice. Similarly, there are fewer studies that explored EA adoption from the context of enterprises that provide digital services in cities grounded on empirical evidence. Therefore, this study assesses the acceptance and usefulness of EA in smart cities context by developing an EA adoption model drawing on the DeLone and McLean Information System (IS) success model.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the identified factors survey questionnaire was designed and sent out to participants which includes IT professionals, senior managers and consultants from 18 organizations in Norway and Ireland involved in a smart city project (+CityxChange) (https://cityxchange.eu/). Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) and structural equation modelling using partial least square was applied for data analysis.

Findings

The results suggest that service quality and system quality positively impact user satisfaction of EA and user's intention to use EA. More importantly, information quality does not influence user satisfaction of EA, and the user satisfaction of EA and user's intention to use EA significantly influences the net benefit of EA.

Originality/value

This study provides a complete understanding for academicians and IT practitioners regarding the factors and impacts on EA acceptance and use in smart cities. Finally, this study discusses the implications of this research and provides recommendations for future research.
The experiences of adults with learning disabilities in the UK during the COVID-19 pandemic: qualitative results from Wave 1 of the Coronavirus and people with learning disabilities study
Authors: Flynn Samantha , Caton Sue , Gillooly Amanda , Bradshaw Jill , Hastings Richard P. , Hatton Chris , Jahoda Andrew , Mulhall Peter , Todd Stuart , Beyer Stephen , Taggart Laurence
Published: October 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present data about the experiences of adults with learning disabilities during the COVID-19 pandemic across the UK.

Design/methodology/approach

Interviews were conducted with 609 adults with learning disabilities. Family carers and support staff of another 351 adults with learning disabilities completed a proxy online survey. The data were collected between December 2020 and February 2021 and concerned both worries/negatives and anything positive that had happened because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Findings

Social isolation was the most commonly reported worry/negative for adults with learning disabilities, with other frequently reported worries/negatives including: changes to/loss of routine; loss of support/services; and decreased health/well-being/fitness. A large proportion of participants indicated that nothing positive had happened because of COVID-19, but some positives were reported, including: digital inclusion; more time spent with important people; improved health/well-being/fitness; and, a slower pace of life.

Practical implications

Future pandemic planning must ensure that adults with learning disabilities are supported to maintain social contact with the people who matter to them and to support their health and well-being (including maintaining access to essential services and activities). Some adults with learning disabilities may benefit from additional support to improve their digital confidence and access. This may in turn enable them to maintain contact with family, friends and support services/activities.

Originality/value

This is the largest study about the experiences of adults with learning disabilities during the COVID-19 pandemic in the UK. The authors primarily collected data directly from adults with learning disabilities and worked with partner organisations of people with learning disabilities throughout the study.
Revenue and distributional modelling for a UK wealth tax
Authors: Advani Arun , Hughson Helen , Tarrant Hannah
Published: October 2021

In this paper, we model the revenue that could be raised from an annual and a one‐off wealth tax of the design recommended by Advani, Chamberlain and Summers in the Wealth Tax Commission's Final Report (2020). We examine the distributional effects of the tax, in terms of both wealth and other characteristics. We also estimate the share of taxpayers who would face liquidity constraints in meeting their tax liability. We find that an annual wealth tax charging 0.17 per cent on wealth above £500,000 could generate £10 billion in revenue, before administrative costs. Alternatively, a one‐off tax charging 4.8 per cent (effectively 0.95 per cent per year, paid over a five‐year period) on wealth above the same threshold, would generate £250 billion in revenue. To put our revenue estimates into context, we present revenue estimates and costings for some commonly proposed reforms to the existing set of taxes on capital.
“We Only Teach Them How to Be Together”: Parenting, Child Development, and Engagement with Formal Education Among the Nayaka in South India
Authors: Lavi Noa
Published: October 2021

Children's school performance is often associated with parenting practices, implying a direct link between parents' behavior, child development, and academic success. Through the case of an Indian forest‐dwelling community, I offer an alternative view of child development, learning, and teaching, which prioritizes social skills above—and as a precondition of—academic/practical ones. I discuss the implications of such view to the evaluation of parenting, and more broadly, of formal education for marginalized indigenous communities.
Initial experience with CytoSorb therapy in patients receiving left ventricular assist devices
Authors: Zhigalov Konstantin , Van den Eynde Jef , Zubarevich Alina , Chrosch Thomas , Goerdt Lukas , Arjomandi Rad Arian , Vardanyan Robert , Sá Michel Pompeu Barros Oliveira , Luedike Peter , Pizanis Nikolaus , Koch Achim , Schmack Bastian , Kamler Markus , Ruhparwar Arjang , Weymann Alexander
Published: October 2021

Background

The use of left ventricular assist devices (LVAD) in patients with advance heart failure is still associated with an important risk of immune dysregulation and infections. The aim of this study was to determine whether extracorporeal blood purification using the CytoSorb device benefits patients after LVAD implantation in terms of complications and overall survival.

Materials and Methods

Between August 2010 and January 2020, 207 consecutive patients underwent LVAD implantation, of whom 72 underwent CytoSorb therapy and 135 did not. Overall survival, major adverse events, and laboratory parameters were compared between 112 propensity score‐matched patients (CytoSorb: 72 patients; non‐CytoSorb: 40 patients).

Results

WBC (p = .033), CRP (p = .001), and IL‐6 (p < .001), significantly increased with LVAD implantation, while CytoSorb did not influence this response. In‐hospital mortality and overall survival during follow‐up were similar with CytoSorb. However, patients treated with CytoSorb were more likely to develop respiratory failure (54.2% vs. 30.0%, p = .024), need mechanical ventilation for longer than 6 days post‐implant (50.0% vs. 27.5%, p = .035), and require tracheostomy during hospitalization (31.9% vs. 12.5%, p = .040). No other significant differences were observed with regard to major adverse events during follow‐up.

Conclusions

Overall, our results showed that CytoSorb might not convey a significant morbidity or mortality benefit for patients undergoing LVAD implantation.
Portfolio of Intangible Investments and Production and Innovation Performance: Evidence from Taiwanese Manufacturing Firms*
Authors: Hsiao Yi‐Chi , Lo Mei‐Lan , Lin Chia‐Ling , Lin Hui‐Lin
Published: October 2021

In the face of keen competition, what is the optimal investment strategy for enhancing a firm's core competency? Which types of intangible investments should be encouraged? What are the effects of intangible investments on innovation performance? Intangible assets have long been recognized as important sources of firms' innovation and long‐term growth. In a departure from the approach of traditional studies on intangible investments that mainly focus on the R&D input, in this study we explore the performance implications of non‐R&D investments. Using uniquely compiled firm‐level panel data of Taiwanese manufacturing firms for the years 2001, 2006 and 2011, we find that intangible investments positively contribute to firms' production and innovation performance. Among three categories of intangible investments, the empirical results show that economic competency contributes the most to the growth in the value of firms' output, and innovative property is the main driver facilitating the development of product innovation. Policy and managerial implications are also developed and investigated.
A case series of vaccine‐induced thrombotic thrombocytopenia in a London teaching hospital
Authors: Watts Isabella , Smith David , Mounter Sarah , Baker Emma H. , Hitchings Andrew W. , Gill Dipender
Published: October 2021

The ChAdOx1 nCoV‐19 vaccine has been associated with increased risk of thrombosis. Understanding of the management of these rare events is evolving, and currently recommended treatments include human normal immunoglobulin and nonheparin anticoagulation such as direct oral anticoagulants. Our report describes three consecutive patients presenting to a London teaching hospital with vaccine‐induced thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT), also referred to as vaccine‐induced prothrombotic immune thrombocytopenia. The patients ranged in age from 40 to 54 years and two had no known previous medical comorbidities. Two patients had cerebral venous sinus thrombosis and one had a deep vein thrombosis. Two were treated with anticoagulation, one with oral rivaroxaban and the other with an intravenous argotraban infusion that was later converted to oral apixaban. One patient received three doses of human normal immunoglobulin and 5 days of therapeutic plasma exchange. This case series may be used to improve understanding of the clinical course and management of VITT.
Host specialization, genetic variability, and differentiation in three species of Tomoplagia from Brazilian rupestrian grasslands
Authors: Leal Camila Rabelo Oliveira , Souza Anete Pereira de , Silva‐Brandão Karina Lucas , Lewinsohn Thomas Michael
Published: October 2021

In this study, the geographic and host plant‐associated genetic structure of Tomoplagia spp. (Diptera: Tephritidae) was investigated. The study was developed in the rupestrian montane grasslands of the Espinhaço Mountain Range, Brazil, where these flies’ larvae develop within flower heads of Asteraceae. The three species of Tomoplagia investigated have different host spans within the subtribe Vernoniinae: one is strictly monophagous (Tomoplagia grandis Prado, Norrbom & Lewinsohn) and two are oligophagous [Tomoplagia incompleta (Williston) and Tomoplagia bicolor Prado, Norrbom & Lewinsohn]. The genetic variability and differentiation throughout their geographic distribution were investigated at the local scale (sympatric, between different host species in the same locality) and the regional scale (allopatric, on the same or different host species in different localities). Allele richness was greater for populations of the two oligophagous species. Moreover, population genetic structure was low in all species both on the local and regional scales, and the attribution of individuals of the three species to different genetic groups was not strongly associated with either locality or host plant. These results indicate the absence of simple geographic and host‐associated genetic structure in these specialized herbivores, suggesting that females of T. bicolor and T. incompleta have low host philopatry, using various host species indiscriminately within their distribution range. Therefore, the use of host plants by fruit flies of the genus Tomoplagia is a plastic character that can shift temporally and spatially among phylogenetically related and chemically similar plants. Contrary to expectations, given the specialized and intimate nature of their host association, the studied Tomoplagia species showed no clear host‐associated genetic differentiation; instead, genetic variation presents a mosaic pattern across hosts and localities.
Virucidal efficacy of antimicrobial surface coatings against the enveloped bacteriophage Φ6
Authors: Calfee Michael Worth , Ryan Shawn P. , Abdel-Hady Ahmed , Monge Mariela , Aslett Denise , Touati Abderrahmane , Stewart Michael , Lawrence Susan , Willis Kristen
Published: October 2021

Aims

Antimicrobial coatings, for use in combination with routine cleaning and disinfection, were evaluated for their effectiveness in reducing virus concentration on stainless steel surfaces.

Methods

Twenty antimicrobial coating products, predominantly composed of organosilane quaternary ammonium compounds, were applied to stainless steel coupons, dried overnight and evaluated for efficacy against Φ6, an enveloped bacteriophage. Additionally, two peel and stick polymer-based films, a copper-based film and three copper alloys were evaluated. Efficacy was determined by comparison of recoveries from uncoated (positive control) and coated (test) surfaces.

Results

The results indicated that some of the coating products initially demonstrated >3-log reduction of Φ6; no direct correlation of efficacy was observed with an active ingredient or its concentration. The peel and stick films and copper alloys each demonstrated efficacy in initial testing. However, none of the spray-based products retained efficacy after subjecting the coating to abrasion with either a hypochlorite or quaternary ammonium-based solution applied in accordance with EPA Interim Guidance for Evaluating the Efficacy of Antimicrobial Surface Coatings. Of the products tested for this durability, only one peel and stick polymeric film retained efficacy; the copper alloys were not tested for their durability in this study.

Conclusions

These results suggest that while some organosilane quaternary ammonium compound-based products demonstrate antiviral efficacy, more research and development is needed to understand effective formulations with sufficient durability to perform as supplements to routine cleaning and disinfection.
The origin of an extreme case of sister‐species sympatry in a palm‐pollinator mutualistic system
Authors: Haran Julien , Beaudoin‐Ollivier Laurence , Benoit Laure , Kergoat Gael J.
Published: October 2021

Aim

Mutualistic systems involving plants and brood pollinators show intriguing cases where a single plant is pollinated by several closely related sympatric species. This study aims at identifying the mechanisms involved in such an extreme case, where 10 sympatric weevil species are only associated with African oil palm inflorescences. We assessed the patterns and timing of speciation of this peculiar assemblage to explore the main drivers of its diversification.

Location

Tropical Africa.

Taxon

The African oil palm Elaeis guineensis Jacquin (Arecaceae, Cocoseae), weevil genera Elaeidobius Kuschel and Prosoestus Faust (Curculionidae, Derelomini).

Methods

We first reassessed the status of the weevil species assemblage associated with the African oil palm based on a range of molecular species delimitation analyses. Second, we reconstructed a dated molecular phylogeny using Bayesian inference and maximum likelihood and carried out historical biogeographical analyses accounting for the main biogeographical barriers in tropical Africa.

Results

Our analyses generally confirm the validity of the species associated with the African oil palm and indicate that they form a monophyletic group. Dating analyses indicate that they originated about 7–8 million years ago (Mya) and that most speciation events occurred during the Pliocene and Pleistocene. Historical biogeography analyses reveal that one geographical barrier played a bigger role during their diversification. Age estimates suggest that extant weevil species remained in sympatry along the range of their host during the last 0.2 Mya.

Main conclusions

This case represents a remarkable example of a speciose mutualistic monophyletic insect assemblage. Our results indicate that past climatic oscillations in Western and Central Africa – where cycles of range contractions and expansions of the host drove the divergence of the weevils in allopatry – and the predominant role of a mountain range were instrumental in the emergence of the sympatric assemblage.
Decision‐making regarding oral nutritional supplements for nursing home residents with advanced dementia: A cross‐sectional pilot study
Authors: van Hamersveld ‐ Kramer Mieke , Perry Sander I. B. , Lodewijks Eva , Vasse Emmelyne , de van der Schueren Marian A. E.
Published: October 2021

Background

Surrogate decision‐making regarding oral nutritional supplements (ONS) for nursing home residents with advanced dementia is a complex process. In this cross‐sectional study, we assessed whether Dutch dietitians, elderly care physicians (physicians) and surrogate decision‐makers (SDMs) differ in the factors that they regard important when considering ONS. We also investigated differences in opinion regarding whether or not ONS is a life‐prolonging measure.

Methods

Through an online survey, 90 dietitians, 53 physicians and 70 SDMs of nursing home residents (all aged ≥ 65 years old with advanced dementia) rated the level of perceived influence of 11 pre‐defined factors on their decision‐making, ranked factors in order of importance and stated whether they considered ONS a life‐prolonging measure or not. By statistical analysis, we tested differences in the mean sum of ranks for perceived influence differing between groups. We also tested differences in proportions between groups of those who considered ONS a life‐prolonging measure.

Results

Rating of perceived influence significantly differed for six factors. Quality of life was ranked as the most influential factor by all groups. Dietitians significantly differed in their opinion on the life‐prolonging effect of ONS from physicians (odds ratio = 0.29, 95% confidence interval  = 0.13–0.65), as well as from SDMs (odds ratio = 0.22, 95% confidence interval = 0.10–0.45).

Conclusions

Although all groups proclaimed quality of life to be first priority in decision‐making, we found that Dutch dietitians, physicians and SDMs differed in what they regarded important when considering ONS for nursing home residents with advanced dementia. Regarding the life‐prolonging effect of ONS, dietitians differed in opinion from physicians, as well as from SDMs.
Dose‐response association between nurse staffing and patient outcomes following major cancer surgeries using a nationwide inpatient database in Japan
Authors: Hirose Naoki , Morita Kojiro , Matsui Hiroki , Fushimi Kiyohide , Yasunaga Hideo
Published: October 2021

Aims and Objectives

To examine the non‐linear dose‐response associations between nurse staffing levels and patient outcomes using a nationwide inpatient database in Japan.

Background

Previous studies showed that higher nurse staffing levels were associated with better patient outcomes. However, it remains unclear whether there are thresholds for the associations between higher nurse staffing levels and improved patient outcomes.

Designs

Retrospective observational study design following the STROBE guideline.

Methods

We identified all patients aged ≥20 years who underwent one of six major cancer surgeries between July 2010 and March 2018 using data from the Diagnosis Procedure Combination database, a nationwide database for acute‐care inpatients in Japan. Restricted cubic spline regression analyses, the statistical method that allows non‐linear functional form, were performed with several scenarios of cut‐off points to examine the dose‐response associations between patient‐to‐nurse ratio per shift and failure to rescue, 30‐day in‐hospital mortality and postoperative complications.

Results

Among 645,687 patients, restricted cubic spline regression analyses showed insignificant associations of patient‐to‐nurse ratio with failure to rescue and 30‐day in‐hospital mortality with no threshold, but a reverse J‐shaped association with postoperative complications with a threshold of patient‐to‐nurse ratio per shift of 5.4.

Conclusions

In terms of postoperative complications, additional registered nurses were associated with decreased postoperative complications. However, this incremental benefit of additional registered nurses may disappear if hospitals allocate five to six number of registered nurses in general wards.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

This study suggested that additional registered nurses over one per five to six patients may not bring the incremental benefit to decrease postoperative complications.
Comparative Study of the Effectiveness of Laboratory‐Formulated Polishing Pastes for Two CAD/CAM Ceramic Restorative Materials
Authors: Mahrous Amr A. , Ellakany Passent , Abualsaud Reem , Al‐Thobity Ahmad M. , Akhtar Sultan , Siddiqui Intisar A. , Gad Mohammed M.
Published: October 2021

Purpose

To evaluate the effect of different polishing pastes with different particle sizes on the surface finish of two different CAD/CAM ceramics.

Materials and Methods

A total of 128 specimens were prepared of two CAD/CAM ceramics: lithium disilicate (12.4 × 14.5 × 2 mm) and monolithic zirconia (17.5 × 12.5 × 2.5 mm). They were divided randomly into 8 groups according to surface treatment (n = 8). Group 1 (control) was left as received after crystallization or sintering with no further surface treatment; Group 2 (glazed); Group 3 (positive control), where specimens were polished using standardized surface treatment (medium grit silicon carbide discs, rubber cup and pumice slurry, then rubber cup and toothpaste). For groups 4 to 8, in addition to silicon carbide and pumice slurry polishing, specimens were further polished using a diamond paste (DP), and polishing pastes of microzirconia (MZ), nanosilica (NS), nanodiamond (ND), and nanozirconia (NZ), respectively. Surface roughness (Ra) was measured using noncontact profilometer. The mean values were compared using ANOVA and Post Hoc Tukey's test (α = 0.05). Specimens’ surfaces were studied using a scanning electron microscope (SEM).

Results

Positive control group and MZ exhibited significant Ra of lithium disilicate compared to control (p ˂ 0.001), glazed (p = 0.001), DPs (p = 0.002), NS (p ˂ 0.001), ND (p ˂ 0.001), and NZ (p = 0.002). In the case of zirconia, positive control showed a significantly higher Ra compared to all other groups (p ˂ 0.001). No statistical difference was found between all other polishing techniques (positive control, glazed, DPs, NS, ND, MZ, and NZ) (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

Polishing with ND, NZ, and NS lab‐formulated pastes produced surfaces with comparable smoothness to control and glazed specimens for lithium disilicate and zirconia ceramic materials.
OhrR is a central transcriptional regulator of virulence in Dickeya zeae
Authors: Lv Mingfa , Chen Yufan , Hu Ming , Yu Qinglin , Duan Cheng , Ye Sixuan , Ling Jinfeng , Zhou Jianuan , Zhou Xiaofan , Zhang Lianhui
Published: October 2021

Dickeya zeae is the causal agent of rice foot rot disease. The pathogen is known to rely on a range of virulence factors, including phytotoxin zeamines, extracellular enzymes, cell motility, and biofilm, which collectively contribute to the establishment of infections. Phytotoxin zeamines play a critical role in bacterial virulence; signalling pathways and regulatory mechanisms that govern bacterial virulence remain unclear. In this study, we identified a transcriptional regulator OhrR (organic hydroperoxide reductase regulator) that is involved in the regulation of zeamine production in D. zeae EC1. The OhrR null mutant was significantly attenuated in its virulence against rice seed, potato tubers and radish roots. Phenotype analysis showed that OhrR was also involved in the regulation of other virulence traits, including the production of extracellular cellulase, biofilm formation, and swimming/swarming motility. DNA electrophoretic mobility shift assay showed that OhrR directly regulates the transcription of key virulence genes and genes encoding bis‐(3′–5′)‐cyclic dimeric guanosine monophosphate synthetases. Furthermore, OhrR positively regulates the transcription of regulatory genes slyA and fis through binding to their promoter regions. Our findings identify a key regulator of the virulence of D. zeae and add new insights into the complex regulatory network that modulates the physiology and virulence of D. zeae.
Relative influence of predators, competitors and seascape heterogeneity on behaviour and abundance of coral reef mesopredators
Authors: Lester Emily K. , Langlois Tim J. , McCormick Mark I. , Simpson Stephen D. , Bond Todd , Meekan Mark G.
Published: October 2021

Determining influences of predation and competition on community dynamics is particularly challenging in coral reef systems where interspecific interactions between many predator and prey species play out in patchy landscapes. We used ~1000 stereo‐baited remote underwater video deployments (stereo‐BRUVs) to assess the relative abundance and analysed the behaviour of two size classes of mesopredatory teleosts (lutajnids, serranids, lethrinids) in the presence and absence of larger predators (mesopredatory and apex carcharhinids). For mesopredatory teleosts, the presence of sharks did not influence the abundance, time of arrival in vicinity of the stereo‐BRUVs, the probability of feeding on bait or the delay to feeding. Instead, the number of similar‐sized competitors and surrounding habitat features were the strongest drivers of these behavioural metrics. We suggest that for most fishes, the predatory threat posed by highly mobile species such as sharks is likely to be sporadic and transitory, whereas competition is ubiquitous and ever present, particularly for schooling taxa. Ultimately, it is likely that both processes interact to determine behavioural phenotypes as individuals that are inferior competitors can be displaced from safe habitats or prohibited from access to resources and will be more susceptible to predation. Future studies should consider the relative effects of both processes and the degree to which each can be shaped by habitat when investigating trophic dynamics that regulate marine communities.