bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolution and molecular basis of a novel allosteric property of crocodilian hemoglobin
Authors: Natarajan Chandrasekhar , Signore Anthony V. , Bautista Naim M. , Hoffmann Federico G. , Tame Jeremy R. H. , Fago Angela , Storz Jay F.
Published: July 2022

Understanding the evolution of novel protein functions requires data on the mechanistic effects of causative mutations and the extent of coupling between the gain of new function and loss of ancestral function. Here, we use ancestral protein resurrection and directed mutagenesis to dissect the molecular basis of a novel mode of allosteric regulation in crocodilian hemoglobin. We discovered that regulation of Hb-O2affinity via allosteric binding of bicarbonate ions (a biochemical adaptation unique to crocodilians) and the concomitant loss of allosteric regulation by ATP-binding are attributable to non-overlapping sets of substitutions. Gain of bicarbonate-sensitivity involved direct effects of few replacements at key sites in combination with indirect effects of numerous replacements at structurally disparate sites. Due to the context-dependence of causative substitutions, the unique allosteric properties of crocodilian hemoglobin cannot be easily transplanted into divergent homologs of other species.

Significance Statement

The extraordinary breath-hold diving capacity of crocodilians is partly attributable to a unique mode of allosterically regulating hemoglobin-oxygenation in circulating red blood cells. We investigated the origin and mechanistic basis of this novel biochemical adaptation by performing directed mutagenesis experiments on resurrected ancestral crocodilian hemoglobins. Our results revealed that evolved changes in allosteric regulation involved the direct effect of few amino acid substitutions at key sites in combination with indirect effects of numerous other substitutions at structurally disparate sites. Such indirect interaction effects suggest that the evolution of novel protein functions may often depend on neutral mutations that produce no adaptive benefit when they first arise, but which contribute to a permissive background for subsequent function-altering mutations at other sites.
Multivariable MR can mitigate bias in two-sample MR using covariable-adjusted summary associations
Authors: Gilbody Joe , Borges Maria Carolina , Smith George Davey , Sanderson Eleanor
Published: July 2022

Genome-Wide Association studies (GWAS) are hypothesis free studies that survey the whole genome for polymorphisms associated with a trait of interest. To increase power and to estimate the direct effects of these single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) on a trait GWAS are often conditioned on a covariate (such as body mass index (BMI) or smoking status). This adjustment can introduce bias in the estimated effect of the SNP on the trait. Mendelian randomisation (MR) studies use summary statistics from GWAS estimate the causal effect of a risk factor (or exposure) on an outcome. Covariate adjustment in GWAS can bias the effect estimates obtained from MR studies using the GWAS data. Multivariable MR (MVMR) is an extension of MR that includes multiple traits as exposures. Using simulations we show that MVMR can recover unbiased estimates of the direct effect of the exposure of interest by including the covariate used to adjust the GWAS within the analysis. We show that this method provides consistent effect estimates when either the exposure or outcome of interest has been adjusted for a covariate. We apply this method to estimate the effect of systolic blood pressure (SBP) on type-2 diabetes (T2D) and waist circumference on systolic blood pressure both adjusted and unadjusted for BMI.
Perturbation of protein homeostasis brings plastids at the crossroad between repair and dismantling
Authors: Tadini Luca , Jeran Nicolaj , Domingo Guido , Zambelli Federico , Masiero Simona , Calabritto Anna , Costantini Elena , Forlani Sara , Marsoni Milena , Briani Federica , Vannini Candida , Pesaresi Paolo
Published: July 2022

The chloroplast proteome is a dynamic mosaic of plastid- and nuclear-encoded proteins. Plastid protein homeostasis is maintained through the balance between de novo synthesis and proteolysis. Intracellular communication pathways, including the plastid-to-nucleus signalling and the protein homeostasis machinery, made of stromal chaperones and proteases, shape chloroplast proteome based on developmental and physiological needs. However, the maintenance of fully functional chloroplasts is costly and under specific stress conditions the degradation of damaged chloroplasts is essential to the maintenance of a healthy population of photosynthesising organelles while promoting nutrient redistribution to sink tissues. In this work, we have addressed this complex regulatory chloroplast- quality-control pathway by modulating the expression of two nuclear genes encoding plastid ribosomal proteins PRPS1 and PRPL4. By transcriptomics, proteomics and transmission electron microscopy analyses, we show that the increased expression of PRPS1 gene leads to chloroplast degradation and early flowering, as an escape strategy from stress. On the contrary, the overaccumulation of PRPL4 protein is kept under control by increasing the amount of plastid chaperones and components of the unfolded protein response (cpUPR) regulatory mechanism. This study advances our understanding of molecular mechanisms underlying chloroplast retrograde communication and provides new insight into cellular responses to impaired plastid protein homeostasis.
Refinement of anomalous dispersion correction parameters in single-crystal structure determinations
Authors: Meurer Florian , Dolomanov Oleg V. , Hennig Christoph , Peyerimhoff Norbert , Kleemiss Florian , Puschmann Horst , Bodensteiner Michael
Published: July 2022

Correcting for anomalous dispersion is part of any refinement of an X-ray diffraction crystal structure determination. The procedure takes the inelastic scattering in the diffraction experiment into account. This X-ray absorption effect is specific to each chemical compound and is particularly sensitive to radiation energies in the region of the absorption edges of the elements in the compound. Therefore, the widely used tabulated values for these corrections can only be approximations as they are based on calculations for isolated atoms. Features of the unique spatial and electronic environment that are directly related to the anomalous dispersion are ignored, although these can be observed spectroscopically. This significantly affects the fit between the crystallographic model and the measured intensities when the excitation wavelength in an X-ray diffraction experiment is close to an element's absorption edge. Herein, we report on synchrotron multi-wavelength single-crystal X-ray diffraction, as well as X-ray absorption spectroscopy experiments which we performed on the molecular compound Mo(CO)6 at energies around the molybdenum K edge. The dispersive (f′) and absorptive (f′′) terms of the anomalous dispersion can be refined as independent parameters in the full-matrix least-squares refinement. This procedure has been implemented as a new feature in the well-established OLEX2 software suite. These refined parameters are in good agreement with the independently recorded X-ray absorption spectrum. The resulting crystallographic models show significant improvement compared to those employing tabulated values.
2-Amino-4-ferrocenylthiazole
Authors: Anzaldo Bertin , Sharma Pankaj , Villamizar Claudia. P. , Gutierrez Perez Rene , Toscano Rubén A.
Published: July 2022

The title compound, [Fe(C5H5)(C8H7N2S)], was synthesized by the direct reaction of acetylferrocene, thiourea and resublimed iodine. The structure shows one molecule in the asymmetric unit. The aminothiazole ring makes an angle of 14.53 (13)° with the ferrocenyl ring to which it is attached. In the crystal, pairs of complex molecules interact via intermolecular N—H...N hydrogen bonds, forming a cyclic dimer which then interacts with other dimers through C—H...π interactions.
An empirical examination of board-related and firm-specific drivers on risk disclosure by listed firms in Kenya: a mixed-methods approach
Authors: Mbithi Erastus , Moloi Tankiso , Wangombe David
Published: July 2022

Purpose

This study aims to examine the effect of board-related and firm-specific drivers on quality of risk disclosure (RD) by listed firms in Kenya.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses explanatory sequential mixed-method. The quantitative approach uses content analysis to measure quality of RD and panel data regression to examine the effect of board-related and firm-specific factors on quality of RD. The results of regression analysis are informed by qualitative analysis through interviews with preparers of the annual report.

Findings

The results reveal that quality of RD is low but greater in the post-regulation than in the pre-regulation period. Additionally, the results of regression and interview analysis show that board-related (board independence and board gender diversity) and firm-specific factors (firm size and leverage) positively influence the quality of RD.

Research limitations/implications

This study focused on listed non-financial firms; this may affect the generalisation of the findings among financial firms.

Practical implications

The findings highlight the effectiveness of the Companies Act in improving RD practice in Kenya. However, the low-quality RD suggests that more consideration should be taken to review the current regulations. This study also suggests that board independence, board gender diversity, leverage and firm size are attributes that require regulatory focus to enhance quality of RD.

Social implications

This study contributes to the ongoing discussions about RD to improve worldwide.

Originality/value

This paper adds to the limited studies investigating RD and drivers using mixed methods in developing countries. Specifically, this study develops a novel measure of RD and examines its drivers (board-related and firm-specific) using agency and institutional theories.
Relationship between educational mismatches and job satisfaction: evidence from Korean young employees’ lifelong learning
Authors: Park Kyung Hee , Luo Nan
Published: July 2022

Purpose

This study aims to demonstrate whether the educational mismatch prevalent in society can be overcome by various types of lifelong learning and whether lifelong learning can contribute to job satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

The participants were 2,559 young Korean employees who graduated from general or specialized vocational high school. This study applied structural equation modeling to verify the mediating effects of lifelong learning on the relationship between educational mismatch and job satisfaction. In addition, this study compared whether the conceptual model results were applied to those who graduated from general school and specialized vocational school through multigroup analysis.

Findings

Regarding the horizontal mismatch, the mediating effect of lifelong learning correlated with job satisfaction was significantly measured in all multigroup models, including the conceptual model. Nevertheless, regarding the vertical mismatch, this study confirmed that informal learning influences job satisfaction differently according to the type of high school from which employees graduated. Furthermore, for those who graduated from specialized vocational school, the relationship between vertical mismatch and job satisfaction was significantly indicated. However, there was no influence of informal learning at the workplace.

Originality/value

This study empirically demonstrated the alternative value of lifelong learning in overcoming the preceding educational mismatch. Moreover, the evidence that such lifelong learning effects may vary depending on the vocational education experiences before entering the labor market is valuable.
Heat transfer enhancement compared to entropy generation by imposing magnetic field and hybrid nanoparticles in mixed convection of a Bingham plastic fluid in a ventilated enclosure
Authors: Dutta Subhasree , Bhattacharyya Somnath , Pop Ioan
Published: July 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to analyze the nonhomogeneous model on the mixed convection of Al2O3–Fe3O4 Bingham plastic hybrid nanofluid in a ventilated enclosure subject to an externally imposed uniform magnetic field. Entropy generation and the pressure drop are determined to analyze the performance of the heat transfer. The significance of Joule heating arising due to the applied magnetic field on the heat transfer of the yield stress fluid is described.

Design/methodology/approach

The ventilation in the enclosure of heated walls is created by an opening on one vertical wall through which cold fluid is injected and another opening on the opposite vertical wall through which fluid can flow out.

Findings

This study finds that the inclusion of Fe3O4 nanoparticles with the Al2O3-viscoplastic nanofluid augments the heat transfer. This rate of enhancement in heat transfer is higher than the rate by which the entropy generation is increased as well as the enhancement in the pressure drop. The yield stress has an adverse effect on the heat transfer; however, it favors thermal mixing. The magnetic field, which is acting opposite to the direction of the inlet jet, manifests heat transfer of the viscoplastic hybrid nanofluid. The horizontal jet of cold fluid produces the optimal heat transfer.

Originality/value

The objective of this study is to analyze the impact of the inclined cold jet of viscoplastic electrically conducting hybrid nanofluid on heat transfer from the enclosure in the presence of a uniform magnetic field. The combined effect of hybrid nanoparticles and a magnetic field to enhance heat transfer of a viscoplastic fluid in a ventilated enclosure has not been addressed before.
The regulatory power of social expectations: developing a measurement scale
Authors: Parfenova Angelina , Kozlova Maria
Published: July 2022

Purpose

This research is devoted to the study of social expectations, and the purpose of this paper is to elaborate the instrument of their measurement based on the main spheres of influence.

Design/methodology/approach

The research was conducted using a mixed methodology: a series of semistructured interviews and a survey. In the first stage, 15 interviews, and in the second phase, both online and offline surveys (306 participants) were conducted to test the social expectations scale designed. The qualitative phase highlighted the most important areas of social expectations, identifying how they can influence individual behavior. Afterward, the scale of social expectations was developed, and its prognostic function was confirmed.

Findings

It was revealed that expectations influence goal setting, motivation, public opinion orientation, emotional experience and decision-making.

Originality/value

This study is an attempt to construct a measurement tool for social expectations and close the gap for many studies that used the concept without operationalization.
Impact of qualified gatekeepers on team absorptive capacity: the mediating role of knowledge combination capability
Authors: Yu Xiang , Washida Yuichi , Sasaki Masato
Published: July 2022

Purpose

This study aims to examine direct effects of qualified team gatekeepers on absorptive capacity (AC), and the mediating roles of combinative capabilities – knowledge integration capability (KIC) and interteam coordination.

Design/methodology/approach

A social networking analysis was used to analyze a unique data set collected from all members of 32 Japanese research and development (R&D) teams to identify key individuals who perform daily gatekeeping functions. This study analyzed the data through partial least squares structural equation modeling with higher-order latent variables. Finally, cross-validation tests were used with holdout samples to test the model’s predictive validity.

Findings

Qualified gatekeepers directly contribute to teams’ realized AC but not to their potential AC. Furthermore, qualified gatekeepers can improve their teams’ capability to absorb and exploit external knowledge by facilitating their capability to consolidate knowledge, that is, its KIC and interteam coordination.

Originality/value

Unlike prior research that asks top managers to identify team gatekeepers, this study used social network analysis to identify these vital individuals. This study provides a new framework indicating how qualified gatekeepers impact the AC of R&D teams through the examination of both the direct and indirect paths of gatekeeping abilities, two combinative capabilities as mediators and team AC.
Laughter and mental health: a case study of Merv Neal
Authors: Neal Merv , Gonot-Schoupinsky Freda
Published: July 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to engage with, and elicit insights from, Merv Neal, a laughter professional, on the use of laughter to benefit mental health.

Design/methodology/approach

This case study is presented in two sections: a biography of Merv Neal, followed by a ten-question interview with him.

Findings

Many insights on laughter are shared. Merv lists five benefits for mental health: laughter brings you into the present moment; laughter is a distraction; laughter breaks negative thought patterns; laughter silences the inner critical voice; and laughter brings joy.

Research limitations/implications

This is a personal narrative, albeit from someone who has professionally used laughter to support mental health issues for over 15 years.

Practical implications

Laughter can be beneficial to support mental health. More evidence for its impact on mental health is needed. Prescribing laughter has been largely overlooked as a way to harness laughter for mental health to date. Investigating how and when to prescribe laughter for mental health is recommended.

Social implications

Mental health issues can vary enormously, but loneliness is often involved. Encouraging social laughter is therefore important, including, surprisingly perhaps, by also practicing laughing alone. Laughter, accessible to all, presents itself as a free and easy way to support community mental health.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first case study and interview with a long-standing laughter professional on the topic of laughter and mental health.
In the Canine Archives of Sex: Radclyffe Hall, Una Troubridge and their Dogs
Authors: Bauer Heike
Published: July 2022

How does attention to dogs open up understanding of the queer, and more specifically, the Sapphic, past? This article examines the forgotten enmeshments of lesbian and pedigree dog subcultures in 1920s England. It takes as its case study one of the best‐known couples of Sapphic modernity, Radclyffe Hall and Una Troubridge, and their dachshunds, Wotan and Thorgils. Bringing into dialogue scholarship on queer, trans and animal history, it traces the historical footprint of the dogs and considers how what this article calls the ‘canine archive of sex’ – a wide range of documents including show catalogues, newspaper reports, fiction and scientific writing – adds to understanding of the complexities of modern Sapphic history. Sapphic here is used to denote relationships between people assigned female at birth, some of whom may have transed gender norms and expectations. The article argues that the records of Hall's and Troubridge's involvement in the world of dog breeding expand understanding both of Sapphic modernity specifically and the intersections between histories of sexuality and gender and animal history more broadly. They reveal how gender norms, class privilege and racialised practices converged in modern pedigree culture, shaping canine–human relationships as well as the queer subcultures that formed around them.
The frequency of fibromyalgia in familial Mediterranean fever and its impact on the quality of life
Authors: Altıntas Duygu , Melikoglu Meltem Alkan
Published: July 2022

Background and aim

Concomitant fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) has been known to be more frequent in patients with several rheumatic diseases. In this study, our aim was to investigate the prevalence of FMS in patients with familial Mediterranean fever (FMF), to analyze the possible factors related to this frequency, and to evaluate the impact of FMS on the functionality and quality of life (QoL) of the patients with FMF.

Patients and methods

One hundred cases with FMF and 100 controls were included to this case‐control study. FMS coincidence was investigated in all participants according to revised 2016 classification criteria. Demographic features, FMF disease duration, FMF gene mutations, drugs used, attack frequency per year, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C‐reactive protein (CRP) and serum fibrinogen levels were recorded. FMF disease severity was assessed by International Severity Scoring System for Familial Mediterranean Fever (ISSF). For the assessments of QoL and functioning, FMF‐QoL, Short form 36 (SF‐36), and Health Assessment Questionnaire‐Disability Index (HAQ‐DI) were used, and for the assessment of FMS impact, the fibromyalgia impact questionnaire (FIQ) were used.

Results

We found an FMS frequency of 33% in patients with FMF in our study using the current FMS classification criteria. This result was significantly higher than in age‐ and gender‐similar controls (6% FMS frequency; P < 0.05). The number of woman patients and FMF disease duration were significantly higher in patients with FMF + FMS than in patients with only FMF (P < 0.001). There was no significant difference in ISSF scores, ESR, CRP, and fibrinogen levels, management regimens, and FMF gene mutation distributions between FMF + FMS and FMF groups. FMF attack frequency was reported as significantly higher in FMF + FMS patients than in others (P < 0.000). In spite of similar FMF‐QoL scores, there were significant differences in HAQ‐DI and SF‐36 scores between groups (P < 0.05). Higher impact of FMS presented negative correlation with functioning and general health, and positive correlation with QoL in FMF + FMS (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Concomitant FMS was a common clinical problem in patients with FMF regardless of the severity and characteristics of FMF. The FMS impact may affect function and QoL in patients of FMF. Considerations of the FMS component in the management of FMF may contribute to the holistic approach to FMF.
Polysubstance use in young people accessing residential and day‐treatment services for substance use: substance use profiles, psychiatric comorbidity and treatment completion
Authors: Mefodeva Valeriya , Carlyle Molly , Walter Zoe , Chan Gary , Hides Leanne
Published: July 2022

Background and Aims

People with substance use disorders (SUDs) frequently present to treatment with polysubstance use and mental health comorbidities. Different combinations of substance use and mental health problems require different treatment approaches. Our study aimed to: (i) identify the shared substance use classes among young people at treatment admission, (ii) determine which mental health symptoms, quality of life (QoL) and service types were associated with the identified substance use classes, and (iii) prospectively determine which substance use classes and service types were more likely to complete treatment.

Design

Cross‐sectional and prospective study using service and outcome data.

Setting

Substance use treatment services in Queensland and New South Wales, Australia.

Participants

De‐identified service and outcome measure data were extracted from the files of 744 clients aged 18–35 years (48% male) admitted into seven residential and four day‐treatment programmes.

Measurements

Substance use and severity among tobacco, alcohol, cannabis, cocaine, amphetamine‐type stimulants, opioids, sedatives and inhalants. Other variables included: depression, anxiety, post‐traumatic stress and psychotic symptoms, as well as QoL.

Findings

Latent class analysis identified three polysubstance use classes: wide‐ranging polysubstance users (WRPU; 22.45%), primary amphetamine users (56.45%) and alcohol and cannabis users (21.10%). The WRPU class had higher odds of psychotic symptoms than the alcohol and cannabis use class [odds ratio (OR) = 1.30; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.11–1.11]; and double the odds of residential programme enrolment than those in the amphetamine use class (OR = 2.35; 95% CI = 1.50–3.68). No other class differences on mental health or QoL variables were found. Clients enrolled in day‐programmes had higher odds of completing treatment.

Conclusions

There appear to be high levels of polysubstance use among young people entering substance use treatment in Australia. Wide‐ranging polysubstance users were more likely to report psychotic symptoms and be enrolled into a residential programme than primary amphetamine users and alcohol and cannabis users.
An anatomical study of the skull, the dorsal and ventral nasal conchal bullae and paranasal sinuses in normal Noma horses: Computed tomographic anatomical and morphometric findings
Authors: Kutara Kenji , Ono Tetsushi , Hisaeda Keiichi , Inoue Yoichi , Henmi Chizuka , Sho Kadekaru , Ohnishi Akihiro , Ohzawa Emi , Une Yumi , Iwata Eri , Shibano Kenichi , Asanuma Taketoshi , Kitagawa Hitoshi
Published: July 2022

Noma horses have the smallest body size among native Japanese horses and are classified as pony breeds by their size. Additionally, the Japanese horse breeds are classified into a single lineage, which includes Mongolian horses. Great intraspecific differences reportedly exist in the head shapes of domesticated horses, which have been investigated in various horse breeds. The present study aimed to evaluate the size of the nasal conchal bullae, and the paranasal sinuses of Noma horses in relation to the skull dimensions using computed tomography. Reconstructed images of the heads of five adult Noma horses were used. Skull and paranasal sinus parameters were measured and analysed in relation to each other and were compared with the data in the literature on the skulls of various horse breeds. In comparison with pony breed, Shetland ponies and donkeys had a shorter nasal length than cranial length, while Noma horses had a longer nasal length than cranial length, similar to the larger breeds. In the nasal conchal bullae, Shetland ponies showed a negative correlation between the head and bullae size, while Noma horses, similar to larger breeds, had a positive correlation. In conclusion, our findings suggest that Noma horses, despite having a body size that belongs to the pony breed, had a distinguishing ratio of the skull and paranasal sinuses similar to that of the larger breeds. Our results provide information on the physiological morphology of the head and comparative anatomy based on genetic diversity in horses.
Roles of natural resistance‐associated macrophage protein‐1 in modulating bacterial distribution and immune responses during Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium infection in murine pregnancy
Authors: Agbayani Gerard , Clark Kristina , Sad Subash , Murphy Shawn P. , Krishnan Lakshmi
Published: July 2022

Problem

Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium (S.Tm) infection in Nramp1+/+ mice during pregnancy can lead to profound bacterial growth in the feto‐placental unit and adverse pregnancy outcomes, including fetal loss, maternal illness and death. The kinetics and mechanisms by which S.Tm gains entry within individual feto‐placental unit, and disseminates through tissues leading to placental resorption and fetal demise remain unclear.

Method of Study

Mice were systemically infected with S.Tm. Bacterial burden within spleen and individual placentas, and placental/fetal resorptions were quantified. Flow cytometric analysis of immune cell types in the spleen and individual placentas was performed. Cytokine expression in maternal serum was determined through cytometric bead array.

Results

Systemic infection with S.Tm resulted in preferential bacterial proliferation in placentas compared to the spleen in Nramp1+/+ mice. At 24 h post‐infection, the mean infection rate of individual placentas per mouse was ∼50%, increasing to >75% by 72 h post‐infection, suggesting that initial infection in few sites progresses to rapid spread of infection through the uterine milieu. This correlated with a steady increase in placental/fetal resorption rates. Placental infection was associated with local increased neutrophil percentages, whereas numbers and percentages in the spleen remained unchanged, suggesting dichotomous modulation of inflammation between the systemic compartment and the feto‐maternal interface. Reduced survival rates of pregnant mice during infection correlated with decreased serum IFN‐γ but increased IL‐10 levels relative to non‐pregnant controls.

Conclusion

Pregnancy compromises host resistance conferred by Nramp1 against S.Tm through compartment‐specific regulation of maternal and placental cellular responses, and modulation of systemic cytokine expression.
Attitudes and awareness of Australian women regarding peripartum antibiotic use: A multicentre survey
Authors: Black Matthew , Kothari Alka , Chawla Gunjan , Pelecanos Anita , Zahumensky Amanda , McDermott Laura , O'Connor Hannah , Kalma Benjamin , Eley Victoria
Published: July 2022

Background

Peripartum antibiotics are commonly administered. Little is known of the attitudes of pregnant women toward peripartum antibiotics.

Aim

We aimed to assess the awareness of and attitudes toward peripartum antibiotic use in Australian women.

Materials and Methods

We surveyed post‐partum women at three hospitals over six months. Women reported if they received antibiotics 48 h either side of delivery and responded to statements assessing attitudes to peripartum antibiotic use. Administered antibiotics were recorded. We reported the proportion receiving antibiotics and the proportion aware of receiving them. Participants responded on five‐point Likert scales and selected side effects of concern.

Results

Participants responding were 248 of 299 (83%, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital), 56 of 106 (53%, Caboolture Hospital) and 17 (Redcliffe Hospital, denominator not recorded). Of 183 (57%) receiving antibiotics, 134 (73%) received them pre‐delivery only, 18 (10%) post‐delivery only and 31 (17%) pre‐ and post‐delivery. Pre‐delivery, the most common indication was pre‐incisional prophylaxis for caesarean delivery (93 of 160 responses, 58%). Seventy‐nine (51%, 156 responses) of those receiving pre‐delivery antibiotics were aware. Of 49 women receiving post‐delivery antibiotics, 36 (73%) were aware. Most agreed they were worried that pre‐delivery antibiotics would affect their baby (198, 62%) and 160 (50%) were concerned about effects on their own microbiome. Most (204, 65%) agreed they would rather not take antibiotics while breastfeeding.

Conclusion

Many women were unaware of receiving pre‐delivery antibiotics. Most had concerns about side effects. Improved communication regarding peripartum antibiotic use would improve patient‐centred care.
Seismic characterization and depositional significance of the Nahr Menashe deposits: Implications for the terminal phases of the Messinian salinity crisis in the north‐east Levant Basin, offshore Lebanon
Authors: Kabir S. M. Mainul , Iacopini David , Hartley Adrian , Maselli Vittorio , Oppo Davide
Published: July 2022

Over the last decade, there has been a resurgence of interest in the climatic and tectonic mechanisms that drove the Messinian salinity crisis (MSC) and the associated deposition of thick evaporites. The MSC represents an unprecedented palaeoceanographic change that led to a very short (ca. 640 kyr) ecological and environmental crisis. However, across the Levantine offshore basin, the sedimentological nature of the top evaporitic units and the mechanisms that controlled the transition from a hypersaline evaporitic unit to brackish deposits (final MSC stage 3) are still disputed. Here, we re‐evaluate the deposits associated with the terminal phase of the MSC, named in offshore Lebanon as the Nahr Menashe Unit (NMU). We describe the NMU seismic facies, characterize and map its internal seismic stratigraphy and provide a new interpretation of its depositional environment, which persisted during the late Messinian and then evolved through a regional reflooding event. The base of the NMU overlies semicircular depressions, randomly distributed linear marks and surface collapse features, which are indicative of a period of intense evaporite dissolution. The NMU seismic facies observed from the slope to the deep part of the basin support the interpretation of a layered salt‐evaporite‐sand depositional system subject to complex reworking, dissolution, deposition and final erosion. A drainage network of valleys and complex tributary channels incising into the top NMU shows marked erosional characteristics, which indicate a dominant southwards sediment transfer following deposition of the NMU. The drainage network was subsequently infilled by layered sediments interpreted here to represent the post‐MSC marine sediments. Our analysis adds important details regarding previous interpretations of the NMU as fluvial in origin. Specifically, the presence of subcircular, linear dissolution features coupled with mound‐like features indicates that the NMU is composed dominantly of evaporites that were subject to dissolution prior to erosion associated with the drainage network. The NMU is interpreted to represent the deposition/redeposition of a mixed evaporite‐siliciclastic succession in a shallow marine or lacustrine environment during the tilting of the offshore Lebanese basin.
Patients' comfort with and receipt of health risk assessments during routine dental visits: Results from the South Atlantic region of the US National Dental Practice‐Based Research Network
Authors: Guo Yi , Woodard Jennifer , Zhang Yahan , Staras Stephanie A. S. , Gordan Valeria V. , Gilbert Gregg H. , McEdward Deborah L. , Shenkman Elizabeth ,   National Dental Practice‐Based Research Network Collaborative Group
Published: July 2022

Objectives

To understand patients' comfort with health risk assessments (HRAs) and patient and dentist factors associated with the provision of HRAs.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, 857 patients seen by 30 dental practitioners in the United States National Dental Practice‐Based Research Network reported their comfort receiving HRA for six risk factors (tobacco use, alcohol use, dietary sugar intake, human immunodeficiency virus risks, human papillomavirus risks and existing medical conditions) and whether they discussed any of the risk factors during their visits. Multi‐level logistic models were used to examine the impacts of patient, practitioner, practice characteristics on the (1) number of risk factors patients were comfortable discussing and (2) number of risk factors assessed in the current dental visit.

Results

Only a small percentage (4%) of patients reported being uncomfortable receiving any HRA during their dental visits. However, over half of the patients (53%) reported that they did not receive any HRAs during the current visit. In the regression analyses, patients who were older, male and from the suburban were more likely to be comfortable with more HRAs. Dentists were more likely to provide HRA if they were younger, not non‐Hispanic white, less likely to feel that providing HRAs was beyond their scope of practice, yet more likely to feel occasional discomfort in providing HRA.

Conclusions

Interventions should focus on reducing dental practitioner perception that conducting HRAs is beyond their scope of practice and standardizing screening assessments for multiple risk factors.
Rigid Registration of Point Clouds Based on Partial Optimal Transport
Authors: Qin Hongxing , Zhang Yucheng , Liu Zhentao , Chen Baoquan
Published: July 2022

For rigid point cloud data registration, algorithms based on soft correspondences are more robust than the traditional ICP method and its variants. However, point clouds with severe outliers and missing data may lead to imprecise many‐to‐many correspondences and consequently inaccurate registration. In this study, we propose a point cloud registration algorithm based on partial optimal transport via a hard marginal constraint. The hard marginal constraint provides an explicit parameter to adjust the ratio of points that should be accurately matched, and helps avoid incorrect many‐to‐many correspondences. Experiments show that the proposed method achieves state‐of‐the‐art registration results when dealing with point clouds with significant amount of outliers and missing points (see https://www.acm.org/publications/class‐2012).
Techniques and feasibility of the cranial‐to‐caudal approach for laparoscopic left colectomy in obstructive splenic flexure cancers: A consecutive case series (with video)
Authors: Goksoy Beslen
Published: July 2022

Aim

Laparoscopic surgery of splenic flexure cancers (SFCs) is one of the most challenging operations among other colorectal surgical procedures. The most commonly performed and recommended laparoscopic surgical technique is the medial‐to‐lateral approach. On the other hand, in obstructive splenic flexure cancers (OSFCs), the medial‐to‐lateral approach may not be possible due to the narrowed surgical field by dilated bowel and difficulty in positioning the bowel. This study aims to present the surgical technique and feasibility of laparoscopic left colectomy with cranial‐to‐caudal dissection as a new alternative method in OSFCs.

Method

All consecutive patients who underwent laparoscopic left colectomy with cranial‐to‐caudal dissection for OSFC between December 2018 and February 2022 were analysed. All procedures were performed by a single surgeon experienced in laparoscopic colorectal surgery and video recorded.

Result

Five consecutive cases of OSFC who underwent laparoscopic surgery with a cranial‐to‐caudal approach were evaluated. The median operating time was 180 (165–195) min, and the length of hospital stay was nine (7–12) days. The surgical margins were tumour‐free, and the median number of harvested lymph nodes was 20 (17–36). Four patients had pTNM stage 3B disease, and one patient had stage 2A disease. There were no major complications and mortality.

Conclusion

In this study, a new alternative surgical approach was used for OSFCs, one of the most challenging procedures in laparoscopic surgery. This technique can also be safely used not only in OSFCs but also in other left colon tumours (adhesions, obesity, etc.) that require splenic flexure mobilization and pose difficulty in a medial‐to‐lateral approach.
Guidance documents for colorectal and anal cancer treatment: A systematic quality and reporting assessment
Authors: Maes‐Carballo Marta , García‐García Manuel , Gómez‐Fandiño Yolanda , De‐Dios‐de‐Santiago Diego , Martínez‐Martínez Carmen , Bueno‐Cavanillas Aurora , Khan Khalid Saeed
Published: July 2022

Aim

Evidence‐based medicine is essential for clinical practice. Clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) and consensus statements (CSs) ought to follow a consistent methodology to underpin high‐quality healthcare. We systematically analysed the quality and reporting of colorectal (CRC) and anal cancer CPGs and CSs.

Methods

Embase, MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews and online sources (59 professional society websites and eight guideline databases) were systematically searched following prospective registration (PROSPERO no. CRD42021286146) by two reviewers independently, without language restrictions. CPGs and CSs about CRC and anal cancer treatment were included from January 2018 to November 2021 and were assessed using the AGREE II tool (per cent of maximum score) and the RIGHT tool (per cent of total 35 items) for quality and reporting respectively.

Results

The median overall quality and reporting of the 59 guidelines analysed were 55.0% (interquartile range 47.0–62.0) and 58% (interquartile range 50.0–67.9), respectively, with a proportion scoring less than half (<50%) for quality (20/59, 33.9%) and reporting (15/59, 25.4%). Guidance reported that following AGREE II methodology scored better on average than that without (AGREE II 77.7% vs. 47.6%, P = 0.001; RIGHT 50.0% vs. 33.9%, P = 0.001). Guidelines based on systematic reviews had better quality and reporting on average than those based on consensus (AGREE II 56.5% vs. 46.6%, P = 0.001; RIGHT 36.9% vs. 35.4%, P = 0.019).

Conclusion

The quality and reporting of colorectal and anal cancer treatment CPGs and CSs were poor. Despite AGREE II and RIGHT inherent methodological limitations, few high‐quality guidelines were found. Despite wide variability in scoring different domains, they merit urgent improvement in all areas. It has also been demonstrated that CPGs and CSs should be underpinned by systematic reviews collecting the best available clinical research findings.
DNA chip‐based diagnosis of onychomycosis and tinea pedis
Authors: Bieber Katja , Harder Melanie , Ständer Sascha , Boch Katharina , Kridin Khalaf , Köhler Birgit , Anemüller Waltraud , Ernst Anna Lara , Zillikens Detlef , Cavalar Markus , Ludwig Ralf J.
Published: July 2022

Background and objectives

Onychomycosis (OM) and tinea pedis (TP) are common fungal infections. Currently, diagnosis is based on direct microscopy and culture that have a low to moderate sensitivity and/or require up to 3–4 weeks until results are obtained. PCR techniques have emerged for the diagnosis of fungal infections, but little is known about their sensitivity and specificity in diagnosing. Here, we compared the diagnostic value of a DNA‐chip technology, that detects 56 fungal pathogens, in a single‐center prospective diagnostic study with microscopy and culture in suspected OM/TP.

Patients and methods

Microscopy, culture and DNA microarray assays were performed on scraping material from patients with suspected OM (n = 67) or TP (n = 73). To test whether swabs can be used as an alternative for scraping, PCR yields were compared in a further 13 patients with OM and 11 patients with TP.

Results

DNA microarrays had the highest sensitivity. Combination of DNA‐chip technology with microscopy further increased the sensitivity, and results from this combined laboratory diagnosis can be obtained within 24 hours. Comparison of sampling techniques (scraping, dry or wet swab) for DNA‐chip assays showed similar results in suspected OM or TP.

Conclusions

DNA‐chip technology shows high sensitivity for OM and TP diagnosis, especially when combined with microscopy.
Editor Profile: Rudi Beyaert
Authors:   The FEBS Journal Editorial Team, Beyaert Rudi
Published: July 2022

In this special interview series, we profile members of The FEBS Journal editorial board to highlight their research focus, perspectives on the journal and future directions in their field. Rudi Beyaert is Full Professor in Molecular Biology at the Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Faculty of Sciences, of the University of Ghent (Belgium). He also serves as Vice‐Science Director of the Center for Inflammation Research of the VIB in Ghent, where he is heading the Unit of Molecular Signal Transduction in Inflammation. He has served as an Editorial Board Member of The FEBS Journal since 2016.
Functional consequences of alder and oak loss in stream ecosystems
Authors: Alonso Alberto , López‐Rojo Naiara , Pérez Javier , Boyero Luz
Published: July 2022

Alder (Alnus glutinosa) and oak (Quercus robur) are dominant tree species in European Atlantic mixed forests, and their leaf litter is a key resource for stream ecosystems. While alder litter has higher nutrient content and palatability than other species and is rapidly processed in the stream by detritivores and microorganisms, oak litter is a tougher and less nutritious but more persistent resource. Given that both species are declining due to the spread of the fungal pathogens Phytophthora alni and Phytophthora cinnamomi, respectively, we investigated how their reduction or loss might alter stream ecosystem functioning through changes in litter decomposition, invertebrate detritivore (Sericostoma pyrenaicum) growth and stoichiometry, and fungal decomposer assemblage characteristics.

We conducted a microcosm experiment where we incubated litter mixtures representing different scenarios of alder and oak reduction or loss (and a concomitant increase in the other species), compared to a control that contained the four most common species in the study area (alder, oak, hazel [Corylus avellana] and willow [Salix atrocinerea]) in the same proportions as found in nature. The experiment lasted for 9 weeks, with the above variables measured every 3 weeks.

Decomposition rates changed depending on which species was lost. Rates decreased as a result of alder loss and increased following oak loss. Sericostoma nutrient assimilation also responded to species loss, increasing and decreasing following alder and oak loss, respectively, possibly due to compensatory assimilation. Differences in Sericostoma nutrient concentrations among treatments decreased with time in the case of nitrogen, whereas they increased for phosphorus, probably due to microbial colonisation.

The presence of oak also constrained microbial activity at the end of the experiment, reducing sporulation rates and causing differences in assemblage structure, probably due to inhibitory traits such as tannins or phenolic compounds.

Treatments examining the loss of both species did not differ from the control, either in decomposition or sporulation rate, since loss of both alder and oak counteracted their effects. However, sporulation rates were higher for the scenario with loss of both species than for treatments with either alder reduction or loss, whereas sporulation rate and assemblage structure in the treatment with loss of both species were similar to the scenarios with oak reduction and loss, indicating that oak loss is more important for microbial activity.

Changes in nutrient assimilation throughout the experiment suggested that effects of plant species reduction and loss can alter ecosystem functioning depending not only on litter palatability, but also on detritivore life stage. Overall, our results provide evidence for the importance of maintaining native riparian vegetation to preserve various ecosystem functions.
Pyrogeography across the western Palaearctic: A diversity of fire regimes
Authors: Pausas Juli G.
Published: July 2022

Aim

The aim was to characterize fire regimes and estimate fire regime parameters (area burnt, size, intensity, season, patchiness and pyrodiversity) at broad spatial scales using remotely sensed individual‐fire data.

Location

Western part of the Palaearctic realm (i.e., Europe, North Africa and the Near East).

Time period

2001–2021.

Methods

Initially, I divided the study area into eight large ecoregions based on their environment and vegetation: Mediterranean, Arid, Atlantic, Mountains, Boreal, Steppes, Continental and Tundra. Next, I intersected each predefined ecoregion with individual‐fire data obtained from remote sensing hotspots to estimate fire regime parameters for each environment. This allowed me to compute annual area burnt, fire size, fire intensity, fire season, fire patchiness, fire recurrence and pyrodiversity for each ecoregion. I related those fire parameters to the climate of the ecoregions and analysed the temporal trends in fire size.

Results

Fire regime parameters varied across different environments (ecoregions). The Mediterranean had the largest, most intense and most recurrent fires, but the Steppes had the largest burnt area. Arid ecosystems had the most extended fire season, Tundra had the patchiest fires, and Boreal forests had the earliest fires of the year. The spatial variability in fire regimes was largely explained by the variability of climate and vegetation, with a tendency for greater fire activity in the warmer ecoregions. There was also a temporal tendency for large fires to become larger during the last two decades, especially in Arid and Continental environments.

Main conclusion

The fire regime characteristics of each ecoregion are unique, with a tendency for greater fire activity in warmer environments. In addition, fires have been increasing in size during recent decades.