bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing assay absorption artefacts inin vitrocell responses to particles
Authors: Yen Seiha , Zosky Graeme R. , Song Yong
Published: January 2023

In this study, we assessed the issue of coal particles absorbing extracellular proteins and tested the effects of different culture conditions and processing strategies to address this issue. Our data show that there is no effective strategy to solve this problem. We agree with previous reports that cytokine binding experiments should be performed to implement appropriate correction factors in order to calculate the accurate production of secreted cytokines in the supernatant of cell culture experiments. This is an underappreciated issue in many published studies on the comparative potency of particles from different sources.
Does the territorial behaviour of the Amur tiger affect the accuracy of occupancy estimation?
Authors: Xie Bing , Gong Yinan , Fu Yanwen , Feng Limin , Yang Haitao
Published: January 2023

1. Accurate estimates of wildlife distributions and population persistence are essential for conservation programs. Occupancy models that account for detection probability have been used to characterize the occupancy and habitat selection of imperilled species. However, failure to distinguish between true-presence and pseudo-presence associated with territorial behaviour can result in the overestimation of the occupancy probability of target species in unsuitable habitats, and this can have major implications for the development of conservation strategies.

2. For highly territorial wildlife species requiring high-quality habitat for survival, occasional ‘Presence’ in unsuitable areas might be related to dispersal or migration, but this does not reflect actual occupancy and habitat use. ‘True-Presence’ and ‘Pseudo-Presence’ should be distinguished for target species to better reflect their actual occupancy and habitat use.

3. To investigate the effect of ‘True-Presence’ and ‘Pseudo-Presence’ on wildlife occupancy estimation, we developed a modified model (Mm) that considers the territorial behaviour of the Amur tiger in northeast China, which distinguished between ‘True-Presence’ and ‘Pseudo-Presence’. We compared two models, Mmand M0(conventional occupancy model), and assessed model performance using goodness-of-fit evaluation, detection and occupancy probability, and favourable variable selection.

4. We found that Mm, which has fewer favourable variables, is more powerful than M0for estimating detection and occupancy probability, as well as characterizing the effect of various factors on the habitat use of Amur tigers. Furthermore, Mmsignificantly reduced the overestimation of occupancy probability outside the home range compared with M0, and detection probability estimates did not significantly differ between M0and Mm. Finally, Mmprovided more empirical habitat selection variables for the Amur tiger.

5. Our results revealed how ‘True-Presence’ and ‘Pseudo-Presence’ affect the occupancy probability and habitat selection of Amur tigers. Our method improves the accuracy of occupancy models; it can also be used to characterize the habitat selection and distribution of wildlife species and be applied to other territorial species.
Isolation and genomic and physiological characterization ofParageobacillussp. G301, the isolate capable of both hydrogenogenic and aerobic carbon monoxide oxidation
Authors: Imaura Yoshinari , Okamoto Shunsuke , Hino Taiki , Ogami Yusuke , Katayama Yuka Adachi , Tanimura Ayumi , Inoue Masao , Kamikawa Ryoma , Yoshida Takashi , Sako Yoshihiko
Published: January 2023

Prokaryotes, known as carbon monoxide (CO) oxidizers, use CO as the carbon or energy source with CO dehydrogenases (CODHs), which are divided into nickel-containing CODH (Ni-CODH) that are sensitive to O2and molybdenum-containing CODH (Mo-CODH) that are capable of aerobic functioning. The oxygen conditions for CO oxidizers to oxidize CO may be limited because CO oxidizers isolated and characterized so far have either Ni- or Mo-CODH. Here, we report a novel CO oxidizer capable of CO oxidation with both types of CODH based on genomic and physiological characterization of the isolateParageobacillussp. G301. This thermophilic facultative anaerobic Bacillota bacterium was isolated from the sediment of a freshwater lake. Genomic analyses showed that G301 was the only isolate possessing both Ni-CODH and Mo-CODH. Genome-based reconstruction of the respiratory machinery and physiological investigation indicated that CO oxidation by Ni-CODH was coupled with H2production (proton reduction), and CO oxidation by Mo-CODH was coupled with O2reduction under aerobic conditions and nitrate reduction under anaerobic conditions. G301 would thus be able to thrive via CO oxidation under a wide range of conditions, from aerobic environments to anaerobic environments even without terminal electron acceptors other than protons. As comparative genome analyses revealed no significant differences in genome structures and encoded cellular functions, except for CO oxidation between CO oxidizers and non-CO oxidizers in the genusParageobacillus, CO oxidation genes would be retained exclusively for CO metabolism and related respiration.

Importance

Microbial CO oxidation has received a lot of attention because it contributes to global carbon cycling in addition to functioning as a remover of CO, which is toxic to many organisms. Microbial CO oxidizers have a punctate phylogenetic distribution throughout bacteria and archaea, even in genus-level monophyletic groups. In this study, we demonstrated that the new isolateParageobacillussp. G301 is capable of both anaerobic (hydrogenogenic) and aerobic CO oxidation, which had not been previously reported. The discovery of this new isolate, which is versatile in CO metabolism, would accelerate research into such CO oxidizers with diverse CO metabolisms, expanding our understanding of microbial diversity. Through comparative genomic analyses, we propose that CO oxidation genes are optional but not essential genetic elements in the genusParageobacillus, providing insight into a factor that shapes the mosaic phylogenetic distribution of CO oxidizers, even in genus-level monophyletic groups.
A chemical probe to modulate human GID4 Pro/N-degron interactions
Authors: Owens Dominic D.G , Maitland Matthew E.R , Yazdi Aliakbar Khalili , Song Xiaosheng , Schwalm Martin P. , Machado Raquel A.C , Bauer Nicolas , Wang Xu , Szewczyk Magdalena M. , Dong Cheng , Dong Aiping , Loppnau Peter , Calabrese Matthew F. , Dowling Matthew S. , Lee Jisun , Montgomery Justin I. , O’Connell Thomas N. , Subramanyam Chakrapani , Wang Feng , Schapira Matthieu , Knapp Stefan , Vedadi Masoud , Min Jinrong , Lajoie Gilles A. , Barsyte-Lovejoy Dalia , Owen Dafydd R. , Schild-Poulter Caroline , Arrowsmith Cheryl H.
Published: January 2023

The CTLH complex is a multi-subunit ubiquitin ligase complex that recognizes substrates with Pro/N-degrons via the substrate receptor GID4. Recently, focus has turned to this complex as a potential mediator of targeted protein degradation, but the role GID4-mediated substrate ubiquitylation and proteasomal degradation plays in humans has thus far remained unclear. Here, we report PFI-7, a potent, selective, and cell-active chemical probe that antagonizes Pro/N-degron binding to human GID4. Use of PFI-7 in proximity-dependent biotinylation enabled the identification of dozens of endogenous GID4-interacting proteins that bind via the GID4 substrate binding pocket, only a subset of which possess canonical Pro/N-degron sequences. GID4 interactors are enriched for nuclear and nucleolar proteins including RNA helicases. GID4 antagonism by PFI-7 altered protein levels of several proteins including RNA helicases as measured by label-free quantitative proteomics, defining proteins that are regulated by GID4 and the CTLH complex in humans. Interactions with GID4 via Pro/N-degron pathway did not result in proteasomal degradation, demonstrating that CTLH interactors are regulated through a combination of degradative and non-degradative functions. The lack of degradation of GID4 interactors highlights potential challenges in utilizing GID4-recruiting bifunctional molecules for targeted protein degradation. Going forward, PFI-7 will be a valuable research tool for defining CTLH complex biology and honing targeted protein degradation strategies.
Harnessing Transcriptomic Signals for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis to Identify Novel Drugs and Enhance Risk Prediction
Authors: Pain Oliver , Jones Ashley , Khleifat Ahmad Al , Agarwal Devika , Hramyka Dzmitry , Karoui Hajer , Kubica Jędrzej , Llewellyn David J. , Ranson Janice M. , Yao Zhi , Iacoangeli Alfredo , Al-Chalabi Ammar
Published: January 2023

Introduction

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease. This study integrates the latest ALS genome-wide association study (GWAS) summary statistics with functional genomic annotations with the aim of providing mechanistic insights into ALS risk loci, inferring drug repurposing opportunities, and enhancing prediction of ALS risk and clinical characteristics.

Methods

Genes associated with ALS were identified using GWAS summary statistic methodology including SuSiE SNP-based fine-mapping, and transcriptome- and proteome-wide association study (TWAS/PWAS) analyses. Using several approaches, gene associations were integrated with the DrugTargetor drug-gene interaction database to identify drugs that could be repurposed for the treatment of ALS. Furthermore, ALS gene associations from TWAS were combined with observed blood expression in two external ALS case-control datasets to calculate polytranscriptomic scores and evaluate their utility for prediction of ALS risk and clinical characteristics, including site of onset, age at onset, and survival.

Results

SNP-based fine-mapping, TWAS and PWAS identified 117 genes associated with ALS, with TWAS and PWAS providing novel mechanistic insights. Drug repurposing analyses identified five drugs significantly enriched for interactions with ALS associated genes, with directional analyses highlighting α-glucosidase inhibitors may exacerbate ALS pathology. Additionally, drug class enrichment analysis showed calcium channel blockers may reduce ALS risk. Across the two observed expression target samples, ALS polytranscriptomic scores significantly predicted ALS risk (R2= 4%;p-value = 2.1×10−21).

Conclusions

Functionally-informed analyses of ALS GWAS summary statistics identified novel mechanistic insights into ALS aetiology, highlighted several therapeutic research avenues, and enabled statistically significant prediction of ALS risk.
Medication-related adverse events in patients with cancer and discrepancies in cystatin C- versus creatinine-based eGFR
Authors: Hanna Paul E. , Wang Qiyu , Strohbehn Ian , Moreno Daiana , Harden Destiny , Ouyang Tianqi , Katz-Agranov Nurit , Seethapathy Harish , Reynolds Kerry L. , Gupta Shruti , Leaf David E. , Sise Meghan E.
Published: January 2023

Background

Creatinine-based estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFRCRE) may overestimate kidney function in patients with cancer. Cystatin C-based eGFR (eGFRCYS) is an alternative marker of kidney function. We investigated whether patients with an eGFR discrepancy, defined as eGFRCYS>30% lower than the concurrent eGFRCRE, had an increased risk of adverse events resulting from renally-cleared medications.

Patients and Methods

We conducted a cohort study of adult patients with cancer who had serum creatinine and cystatin C measured on the same day between May 2010 and January 2022 at two academic cancer centers in Boston, MA. The primary outcome was the incidence of each of the following medication-related adverse events: 1) supratherapeutic vancomycin levels (>30μg/mL); 2) trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole-related hyperkalemia (>5.5mEq/L); 3) baclofen-induced neurotoxicity; and 4) supratherapeutic digoxin levels (>2.0ng/mL).

Results

1988 patients with cancer had simultaneous eGFRCYSand eGFRCRE. The mean age was 66 years (SD±14), 965 (49%) were female, and 1555 (78%) were non-Hispanic white. eGFR discrepancy occurred in 579 patients (29%). Patients with eGFR discrepancy were more likely to experience medication-related adverse events compared to those without eGFR discrepancy: vancomycin levels >30μg/mL (24% vs. 10%, p=0.004), trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole-related hyperkalemia (24% vs. 12%, p=0.013), baclofen-induced neurotoxicity (25% vs. 0%, p=0.13), and supratherapeutic digoxin levels (38% vs. 0%, p=0.03). The adjusted OR for vancomycin levels >30μg/mL was 2.30 (95% CI 1.05 – 5.51, p = 0.047).

Conclusion

Among patients with cancer with simultaneous assessment of eGFRCYSand eGFRCRE, medication-related adverse events occur more commonly in those with eGFR discrepancy. These findings underscore the importance of accurate assessment of kidney function and appropriate dosing of renally-cleared medications in patients with cancer.
Exploring Self-Management Barriers and Facilitators Experience by People with Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain - A Qualitative Study
Authors: Christensen Mads Norre , Johansen Simon Kristoffer , Slot Soeren Ravn , Madsen Emil , Carlsen Anne , Rathleff Michael Skovdal
Published: January 2023

Background: One in three people worldwide will experience chronic musculoskeletal pain (CMP). Due to the long-standing nature of CMP, it is inevitable that people with CMP will have to engage in some form of self-management. As highlighted by multiple clinical practice guidelines, it becomes pivotal that healthcare professionals provide effective self-management support. However, the current effectiveness of self-management interventions seems equivocal. This may be due to self-management interventions not being developed based on an in-depth understanding of the self-management challenges experienced by people with CMP. Objectives: This study explored the everyday barriers and facilitators for self-management experienced by people with CMP currently undergoing rehabilitation in a municipality setting. Methods: We conducted 11 one-time, single-person, qualitative interviews of people living with CMP. The interviews were based on a semi-structured interview guide with open-ended questions and analyzed using an inductive thematic analysis to identify the participants experienced barriers and facilitators for self-management in everyday situations. Findings: Three overarching barriers emerged: 1) biographical disruption, 2) uncertainty and psychological distress, and 3) lack of social support. Further, three overarching facilitators emerged: 1) acceptance and optimism 2) pain-relieving strategies and 3) social support. These barriers and facilitators far exceeded participants capability to control their pain. Conclusion: The majority of the barriers and facilitators concerned the management of cognitive, emotional, social or personal consequences of CMP. Integrating these barriers and facilitators into the development of future self-management interventions may have the potential to improve the effectiveness of these interventions.
Comparative effectiveness of the bivalent BA.4-5 and BA.1 mRNA-booster vaccines in the Nordic countries
Authors: Andersson Niklas Worm , Thiesson Emilia Myrup , Baum Ulrike , Pihlström Nicklas , Starrfelt Jostein , Faksová Kristýna , Poukka Eero , Meijerink Hinta , Ljung Rickard , Hviid Anders
Published: January 2023

Background

Data on the comparative vaccine effectiveness (CVE) of the bivalent mRNA-booster vaccines containing the original SARS-CoV-2 and omicron BA.4-5 and BA.1 subvariants are limited.

Methods

In a period of BA.4-5 subvariants predominance, we estimated the CVE of the bivalent Comirnaty (Pfizer-BioNTech) and Spikevax (Moderna) BA.4-5 and BA.1 mRNA-booster vaccines given as a fourth dose in Denmark, Finland, Norway, and Sweden. From 1 July 2022 to 12 December 2022, we conducted nationwide cohort analyses using target trial emulation to compare risks of Covid-19 hospitalization and death in four-dose (second booster) with three-dose (first booster) vaccinated and between four-dose vaccinated individuals.

Results

Compared with having received three vaccine doses, receipt of a bivalent BA.4-5 booster as a fourth dose was associated with a country-combined CVE against Covid-19 hospitalization of 80.5% (95% confidence interval, 69.5% to 91.5%). The corresponding CVE for bivalent BA.1 boosters was 74.0% (68.6% to 79.4%). CVE against Covid-19 death was 77.8% (48.3% to 100%) and 80.1% (72.0% to 88.2%) for bivalent BA.4-5 and BA.1 boosters as a fourth dose, respectively. The CVE of bivalent BA.4-5 vs. BA.1 boosters were 32.3% (10.6% to 53.9%) for Covid-19 hospitalization and 12.3% (−36.1% to 60.7%) for death (the latter estimable in Denmark only).

Conclusions

Vaccination with bivalent BA.4-5 or BA.1 mRNA-booster vaccines as a fourth dose was associated with increased protection against Covid-19 hospitalization and death during a period of BA.4-5 predominance. Bivalent BA.4-5 boosters conferred moderately greater vaccine effectiveness against Covid-19 hospitalization compared with bivalent BA.1 boosters.
The LH–DH module of bacterial replicative helicases is the common binding site for DciA and other helicase loaders
Authors: Cargemel Claire , Marsin Stéphanie , Noiray Magali , Legrand Pierre , Bounoua Halil , Li de la Sierra-Gallay Inès , Walbott Hélène , Quevillon-Cheruel Sophie
Published: January 2023

During the initiation step of bacterial genome replication, replicative helicases depend on specialized proteins for their loading onto oriC. DnaC and DnaI were the first loaders to be characterized. However, most bacteria do not contain any of these genes, which are domesticated phage elements that have replaced the ancestral and unrelated loader gene dciA several times during evolution. To understand how DciA assists the loading of DnaB, the crystal structure of the complex from Vibrio cholerae was determined, in which two VcDciA molecules interact with a dimer of VcDnaB without changing its canonical structure. The data showed that the VcDciA binding site on VcDnaB is the conserved module formed by the linker helix LH of one monomer and the determinant helix DH of the second monomer. Interestingly, DnaC from Escherichia coli also targets this module onto EcDnaB. Thanks to their common target site, it was shown that VcDciA and EcDnaC could be functionally interchanged in vitro despite sharing no structural similarity. This represents a milestone in understanding the mechanism employed by phage helicase loaders to hijack bacterial replicative helicases during evolution.
Management accounting systems and economic sustainability: a qualitative inquiry of SMEs in Pakistan
Authors: Latif Shahid , Izani Mohd Salleh Safrul , Abd. Ghani Mazuri , Ahmad Bilal
Published: January 2023

Purpose

This qualitative inquiry sheds light on using management accounting systems to address economic sustainability concerns in small and medium enterprises (SMEs) of Pakistan. Building on the dynamic capabilities (DC) theory, this research endeavors to address the recent calls on management accounting and economic sustainability in the context of SMEs.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative research design was adopted in which 13 semistructured interviews were conducted with SME owners of Pakistan. The transcribed interviews were coded and thematic analysis was performed via NVIVO-12 to generate themes.

Findings

Based on the DC theory, the findings revealed that SME owners in Pakistan use management accounting systems to ensure economic sustainability. The authors found that DC are a co-created phenomenon and refer to them as collective DC. Furthermore, the authors found the theme of accounting literacy which played a critical role in the exhibition of DC in a collective manner.

Originality/value

This is one of the earliest studies on management accounting systems that examine economic sustainability in Pakistani SMEs. This research provides novel insights into the use of management accounting systems in Pakistan from the perspective of DC. In Pakistani SMEs, dynamic capacities are co-created and contingent on accounting literacy.
Upcycled food choice motives and their association with hesitancy towards consumption of this type of food: a Swedish study
Authors: Moshtaghian Hanieh , Bolton Kim , Rousta Kamran
Published: January 2023

Purpose

This study investigates factors motivating upcycled food choices and assesses the association between these factors and hesitancy towards upcycled food consumption in a Swedish population.

Design/methodology/approach

An online food choice questionnaire was used. Participants (n = 682) were categorised into Inclined and Hesitant groups based on their intention to consume upcycled foods. The factors motivating upcycled food choices were identified using explanatory factor analyses. Independent t-tests assessed the differences in the mean importance score of factors between the two groups. The association between upcycled food choice factors and hesitancy towards consumption was evaluated by logistic regressions (adjusted for sociodemographic characteristics).

Findings

The most important upcycled food choice factor in both groups was ethical concerns, followed by natural content, sensory appeal, price, healthiness, familiarity and impression. The Inclined group’s mean importance score for ethical concern was higher than the Hesitant group (pvalue<0.001) and, except for natural content, the mean importance scores for the other factors were higher in the Hesitant group compared to the Inclined group (pvalue<0.05). Participants who perceived ethical concern as an important factor had lower odds of hesitancy (Odds ratio = 0.39; 95%CI:0.26,0.59; pvalue<0.001), and those who considered sensory appeal an important factor had higher odds of hesitancy (Odds ratio = 2.42; 95%CI:1.62,3.63; pvalue<0.001) towards upcycled food consumption compared to participants who did not consider these as important factors.

Originality/value

This is the first study investigating health and non-health-related upcycled food choice motives using a food choice questionnaire. Identifying these motives helps food developers and researchers determine factors influencing upcycled food consumption.
Circular supply chain management: a bibliometric analysis-based literature review
Authors: Zhang Abraham , Duong Linh , Seuring Stefan , Hartley Janet L.
Published: January 2023

Purpose

Supply chain management (SCM) research has contributed to the transition to a circular economy (CE). Still, confusions exist on the related terms, and no review has mapped out the development trends in the domain. This research clarifies the boundaries of the relevant concepts. Then, it conducts a comprehensive review of the circular SCM (CSCM) literature and identifies opportunities for future research.

Design/methodology/approach

Using relevant keywords, 1,130 journal articles published in December 31, 2021 were identified. Unlike the published reviews, which mainly relied on content analysis, this review uses bibliometric analysis tools, including citation analysis, co-citation analysis and cluster analysis. The review identifies general trends, influential researchers, high-impact publications, citation patterns and established and emergent research themes.

Findings

The extant CSCM literature includes five prominent clusters: (1) reverse channel optimization; (2) CSCM review and empirical studies; (3) closed-loop supply chain (CLSC) and consumers; (4) CLSC and inventory management and (5) CLSC and reverse logistics (RL). Significant research gaps exist in the use of secondary and longitudinal data, a wider range of theories, mixed-methods, multi-method, action research and behavioral experiment. The least researched topics include zero waste, industrial symbiosis, circular product design, sourcing and supply management and reuse.

Originality/value

This is the first bibliometric analysis-based literature review on CSCM. It clarifies the interrelated supply chain sustainability terms and thus reduces related confusion. It offers insights into the patterns in the CSCM literature and suggests important research directions.
Corporate decisions on LGBT friendliness: a multi-level approach
Authors: Choi Seong-jin , Shin Jiyoung , Kuper Paul , Zhang Lu-Yao
Published: January 2023

Purpose

This research investigates how and why firms adopt inclusive diversity activities, identifying the mechanisms behind firms involved in lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT)–friendly pursuits. By integrating resource dependence theory, institutional theory and stakeholder theory, the authors argue that a firm's LGBT friendliness is affected by marketing orientation and the external political environment.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses the Corporate Equality Index, as reported by the Human Rights Campaign, of 460 (1,540 firm-year observations) firms in the United States between 2006 and 2019.

Findings

This study finds a significant, positive relationship between a firm's marketing orientation and LGBT-friendly activities. This research also determines that this relationship is weakened by state-level diversity policies and country-level political uncertainty.

Originality/value

The study results provide unique theoretical and practical implications for the debate on inclusive corporate policy in similar global markets.
Identifying similarities and differences in sustainability education and foresight and futures education: a comparative analysis of competence frameworks
Authors: Thayer Tryggvi
Published: January 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to determine in what ways the competence frameworks analyzed converge or diverge and whether they are similar enough to be considered equivalent.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is based on a comparative analysis of competence frameworks describing sustainability education and foresight and futures education.

Findings

This study finds that sustainability education and futures and foresight education differ in significant ways in terms of expected outcomes as described by competence frameworks. The two educational fields cannot be considered equivalent. Rather, we find that they are complementary.

Research limitations/implications

This study is based on an analysis of competence frameworks that have been published in peer-reviewed publications. They do not necessarily reflect what is actually practiced in educational environments. Also, competence frameworks may be in circulation that have not been described in scholarly publications and are therefore not included in this study.

Practical implications

The results of this study can be helpful for further refining and developing both sustainability education and futures and foresight education by clarifying the different roles that they play in promoting the skills needed to address long-term challenges in uncertain futures.

Social implications

The rapid rise in prominence of sustainability education, in particular, but also foresight and futures education, is indicative of current concerns about the future of our planet and the beings that inhabit it. There is a sense that a key role of education should be to contribute to a pursuit of positive futures for all. By clarifying how current educational practices address this need, this study contributes to the overall goal of education.

Originality/value

Sustainability education and foresight and futures education have been regarded as being at least similar enough that implementing one may preclude the necessity for the other. This study shows that there are significant differences between the two as they have been defined in published competence frameworks. In particular, it shows that sustainability education emphasizes the use of anticipatory intelligence for strategic planning, while foresight and futures education emphasize the generation of anticipatory intelligence. The two fields are found to be complementary in that they address different, but equally necessary, skills needed to address long-term challenges.
Trust and commitment: a comparative study of virtual team communication across industries
Authors: Tucker Cherina , Olsen Brigit , Hale Richard Todd
Published: January 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate virtual team (VT) member’s perception of trust and commitment when using computer-mediated communication (CMC).

Design/methodology/approach

A nonexperimental quantitative research methodology was used to survey full-time employees in education, health care and telecommunications industries. Participants were on VTs using CMC. A factorial, between groups, multivariate analysis of variance was used to examine whether the mean scores of trust and commitment, as dependent variables, significantly differed between VT members across industries, that make up one of the independent variables (type of industry) using different CMC with the CMC methods being the second independent variable.

Findings

When the variable of type of industry was held constant, CMC resulted in statistically significant differences in the mean scores of the linear variate of trust and commitment. However, when the variable of CMC was held constant, type of industry did not result in a statistically significant difference in the mean scores of the linear variate of trust and commitment. Additionally, the interaction of the variables CMC and type of industry resulted in a statistically significant difference in the mean scores of the linear variate of trust and commitment.

Originality/value

Findings suggest organizations should adopt best practices to maximize benefits of the visual component of VT communication. This study provides evidence to support a potential relationship between trust and visual CMC. Findings aid organizational leaders in evaluating communication tools, specifically for complex tasks requiring trust among members.
Modeling of dam-break flood wave propagation using HEC-RAS 2D and GIS: case study of Taksebt dam in Algeria
Authors: Abdelghani Leghouchi
Published: January 2023

Purpose

This study aims to predict the consequences associated with the propagation of the flood wave that may occur after the failure of the Taksebt dam and suggest an efficient emergency action plan for mitigation purposes.

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve the objectives of this study, the hydrodynamic model HEC-RAS 2D was used for the flood routing of the dam-break wave, which gave an estimate of the hydraulic characteristics downstream the Taksebt dam.

Findings

Geospatial analysis of the simulation results conducted in a geographic information system (GIS) environment showed that many residential areas are considered to be in danger in case of the Taksebt dam-break event. Based on the obtained results, an emergency actions plan was suggested to moderate the causalities in the downstream area at risk.

Originality/value

Overall, this study showed that the integration of 2D hydraulic modeling and GIS provides great capabilities in providing realistic view of the dam-break wave propagation that enhances assessing the associated risks and proposing appropriate mitigation measures.
Specific leaf area and vapour pressure deficit control live fuel moisture content
Authors: Griebel Anne , Boer Matthias M. , Blackman Chris , Choat Brendan , Ellsworth David S. , Madden Paul , Medlyn Belinda , Resco de Dios Víctor , Wujeska‐Klause Agnieszka , Yebra Marta , Younes Cardenas Nicolas , Nolan Rachael H.
Published: January 2023

The live fuel moisture content (LFMC) is an important precondition for wildfire activity, yet it remains challenging to predict LFMC due to the dynamic interplay between atmospheric and hydrological conditions that determine the plant's access to, and loss of water.

We monitored LFMC and a range of plant water‐use traits (predawn and midday leaf water potentials [Ψleaf]), leaf traits (specific leaf area [SLA]), hydrological status (soil water content [SWC] in the shallow layer and full profile) and atmospheric variables (air temperature, vapour pressure deficit [VPD], CO2 concentrations) in a mature eucalypt woodland at the Eucalyptus Free‐Air CO2 Enrichment (EucFACE) facility during a drought.

We combined plant traits, hydrological status and atmospheric variables into a biophysical model to predict LFMC dynamics, and compared these with predictions of LFMC based on a satellite model and established relationships between Ψleaf and LFMC from pressure–volume curves.

Predawn Ψleaf could be well predicted from changes in SWC, but variation in midday Ψleaf and LFMC were more responsive to atmospheric than hydrological variables. The biophysical model explained up to 89% of variability in LFMC and outperformed established approaches to predict LFMC. SLA was the single most important variable to predict LFMC, followed by VPD, which explained 33% of the remaining variability in LFMC.

Our study demonstrates that the co‐variation of plant traits and atmospheric and hydrological conditions affect LFMC during drought, suggesting a new way forward for predicting LFMC by combining biophysical and satellite‐based models of LFMC with seasonal forecasts of meteorological and hydrological variables.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Maternal comorbidity and adverse perinatal outcomes in survivors of adolescent and young adult cancer: A cohort study
Authors: Desai Milli , Zhou Beth , Nalawade Vinit , Gyamfi‐Bannerman Cynthia , Veeravalli Nina , Henk Henry , Murphy James , Whitcomb Brian , Su H. Irene
Published: January 2023

Objective

To evaluate risks of preterm birth (PTB) and severe maternal morbidity (SMM) in female survivors of adolescent and young adult cancer and assess maternal comorbidity as a potential mechanism. To determine whether associations differ by use of assisted reproductive technology (ART).

Design

Retrospective cohort.

Setting

Commercially insured females in the USA.

Sample

Females with live births from 2000–2019 within a de‐identified US administrative health claims data set.

Methods

Log‐binomial regression models estimated relative risks of PTB and SMM by cancer status and tested for effect modification. Causal mediation analysis evaluated the proportions explained by maternal comorbidity.

Main Outcome Measures

PTB and SMM.

Results

Among 46 064 cancer survivors, 2440 singleton births, 214 multiple births and 2590 linked newborns occurred after cancer diagnosis. In singleton births, the incidence of PTB was 14.8% in cancer survivors versus 12.4% in females without cancer (aRR 1.19, 95% CI 1.06–1.34); the incidence of SMM was 3.9% in cancer survivors versus 2.4% in females without cancer (aRR 1.44, 95% CI 1.13–1.83). Cancer survivors had more maternal comorbidities before and during pregnancy; 26% of the association between cancer and PTB and 30% of the association between cancer and SMM was mediated by maternal comorbidities. Tests for effect modification of cancer status on perinatal outcomes by ART were non‐significant.

Conclusions

Preterm birth and SMM risks were modestly increased after cancer. Significant proportions of elevated risks may result from increased comorbidities. ART did not significantly modify the association between adolescent and young adult cancer and adverse perinatal outcomes. The prevention and treatment of comorbidities provides an opportunity to improve perinatal outcomes among cancer survivors.
Effectiveness evaluation of an antenatal care intervention addressing disparities to improve perinatal outcomes in Denmark: A nationwide register‐based analysis of a cluster randomised controlled trial (MAMAACT)
Authors: Damsted Rasmussen Trine , Fredsted Villadsen Sarah , Hansen Anne Vinkel , Mortensen Laust H. , Ekstrøm Claus Thorn , Jervelund Signe Smith , Nybo Andersen Anne‐Marie
Published: January 2023

Objective

To evaluate whether MAMAACT, an antenatal care (ANC) intervention, aimed at reducing ethnic and social disparities in perinatal mortality, affected perinatal health outcomes.

Design

Cluster randomised controlled trial.

Setting

Nineteen of 20 maternity wards in Denmark.

Population

All newborn children within a pre‐implementation period (2014–2017) or an implementation period (2018–2019) (n = 188 658).

Intervention

A 6‐h training session for midwives in intercultural communication and cultural competence, two follow‐up dialogue meetings, and health education materials for pregnant women on warning signs of pregnancy complications in six languages.

Methods

Nationwide register‐based analysis of the MAMAACT cluster randomised controlled trial. Mixed‐effects logistic regression models were used to estimate the change in outcomes from pre‐ to post‐implementation in the intervention group relative to the control group. Results were obtained for the overall study population and for children born to immigrants from low‐ to middle‐income countries, separately. Models were adjusted for confounders selected a priori.

Main Outcome Measures

A composite perinatal mortality and morbidity outcome, including stillbirths, neonatal deaths, Apgar score <7, umbilical arterial pH < 7.0, admissions to a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) >48 h, and NICU admissions for mechanical ventilation. Additional outcomes were the individual measures.

Results

The intervention increased the risk of the composite outcome (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.16, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.99–1.34), mainly driven by differences in NICU admission risk (composite outcome excluding NICU, aOR 0.98, 95% CI 0.84–1.14). The intervention slightly increased the risk of low Apgar score and decreased the risk of low arterial pH, reflecting, however, small differences in absolute numbers. Other outcomes were unchanged.

Conclusions

Overall, the MAMAACT intervention did not improve the composite perinatal mortality and morbidity outcome (when excluding NICU admissions). The lack of effects may be due to contextual factors including organisational barriers in ANC hindering the midwives from changing practices.
Final year medical students as Assistants in Medicine in the emergency department: A pilot study
Authors: Rupasinghe Senali , Majeed Omar Mustafa , Berling Ingrid
Published: January 2023

Objective

To evaluate the Assistant in Medicine (AiM) programme and its impact on physician burden and productivity in the ED.

Methods

Calvary Mater Newcastle ED employed eight final year medical students as part‐time AiMs for a 10‐week period from October to December 2021. Each student worked one 10‐h shift per week. During these shifts, AiMs were assigned to a supervising doctor postgraduate year 3 or above to assist them with tasks including documentation, patient reviews, hospital consults, procedures, and discharge preparation. At the conclusion of each shift, the supervising doctor completed an online questionnaire of their experience.

Results

Forty‐seven responses were received. Thirty‐six doctors (77%) felt they were able to see more patients in comparison to an average shift without an AiM and 40 doctors (85%) felt that having an AiM increased their overall productivity. Forty‐five doctors (96%) supported the implementation of final year medical students as AiMs as a permanent addition to the medical workforce in the ED.

Conclusion

The present study demonstrates the strong potential the AiM programme has to improve productivity, workflow and efficiency in the ED.
Development of a new minimally invasive phototherapy for lung cancer using antibody–toxin conjugate
Authors: Sonokawa Takumi , Obi Naoko , Usuda Jitsuo , Sudo Yukio , Hamakubo Takao
Published: January 2023

Background

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a cancer‐targeted treatment that uses a photosensitizer (PS) and laser irradiation. The effectiveness of current PDT using red light for advanced cancers is limited, because red light can only reach depths within a few millimeters. To enhance the antitumor effect for lung cancers, we developed a new phototherapy, intelligent targeted antibody phototherapy (iTAP). This treatment uses a combination of immunotoxin and a PS, mono‐L‐aspartyl chlorin e6 (NPe6).

Methods

We examined whether cetuximab encapsulated in endosomes was released into the cytosol by PS in PDT under light irradiation. A431 cells were treated with fluorescein isothiocyanate‐labeled cetuximab, NPe6, and light irradiation and were observed with fluorescence microscopy. We analyzed the cytotoxicity of saporin‐conjugated cetuximab (IT‐cetuximab) in A431, A549, and MCF7 cells and the antitumor effect in model A549‐bearing mice in vivo using the iTAP method.

Results

Fluorescent microscopy analysis showed that the photodynamic effect of NPe6 (20 μM) and light irradiation (37.6 J/cm2) caused the release of cetuximab from the endosome into the cytosol. In vitro analysis demonstrated that the iTAP method enhanced the cytotoxicity of IT‐cetuximab by the photodynamic effect. In in vivo experiments, compared with IT‐cetuximab alone or PDT alone, the iTAP method using a low dose of IT‐cetuximab showed the greatest enhancement of the antitumor effect.

Conclusions

Our study is the first report of the iTAP method using NPe6 for lung cancer cells. The iTAP method may become a new, minimally invasive treatment superior to current PDT methods.
Masai giraffe population change over 40 years in Arusha National Park
Authors: Lee Derek E. , Lohay George G. , Madeli James , Cavener Douglas R. , Bond Monica L.
Published: January 2023

A population of Masai giraffes (Giraffa camelopardalis tippelskirchi) occurs in Arusha National Park (ANP), which is not part of the regular Tanzanian national wildlife monitoring scheme. Urban development of Arusha city and agricultural expansion have contributed to the increasing isolation of ANP from other protected areas in northern Tanzania. The only published data on the Masai giraffe population of ANP were individual‐based data collected in 1979 and 1980. Here, we used individual‐based data from 2021 to 2022 to provide an update on the current population size, population sex and age structure, movements and genetic connectivity of giraffes in ANP. We documented a 49% population decline and changes in the age distribution, adult sex ratio, reproductive rate and movement patterns relative to the previous study. Mitochondrial DNA analysis revealed genetic connectivity between ANP and other populations east of the Gregory Rift Escarpments in northern Tanzania and south‐eastern Kenya, evidence that Masai giraffe once moved widely across the landscape.
Care or Justice: Care Ethics and the Restricted Reporting Sexual Assault Policy in the US Military
Authors: Kirkpatrick Jennet , M. Warner Carolyn
Published: January 2023

Many care‐ethics scholars argue that care and justice should harmonize. While agreeing in general, we argue for a hard limit on justice in some instances. For example, we find evidence to support limiting justice in favor of care in the US military's restricted reporting policy in cases of sexual assault. This policy allows victims to receive medical treatment without initiating a criminal investigation. Moreover, the article finds additional evidence to normatively prioritize care in the policy's attentiveness and responsiveness, two values emphasized by care‐ethics scholars. This article gives insight into how care and justice can devolve into an antagonistic relationship, something many care‐ethics scholars seek to avoid. Finally, this article suggests how a more harmonious relationship between care and justice might be restored.
Closed‐loop oxygen system in late preterm/term, ventilated infants with different severities of respiratory disease
Authors: Kaltsogianni Ourania , Dassios Theodore , Harris Christopher , Jenkinson Allan , Lee Rebecca Ann , Sugino Masashiro , Greenough Anne
Published: January 2023

Aim

To evaluate closed‐loop automated oxygen control (CLAC) in ventilated infants >33 weeks of gestation with different respiratory disease severities.

Methods

Infants were studied on two consecutive days for 6 h each day. They were randomised to receive standard care or standard care with CLAC (Oxygenie) first. Analyses were performed of the results of infants with or without an FiO2 ≥ 0.3 and infants with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH).

Results

Thirty‐one infants with a median (IQR) gestational age of 37.9 (37.1–38.9) weeks were studied at a median postmenstrual age (IQR) of 38.9 (37.4–39.8) weeks. In infants with an FiO2 ≥ 0.3 (n = 8), CLAC increased the time spent in target oxygen range (92–96%) by 61.6% (p = 0.018), whereas in infants with an FiO2 < 0.3, the time in target was increased by 3.8% (p = 0.019). During CLAC, only infants with an FiO2 ≥ 0.3 spent less time in hyperoxemia (SpO2 > 96%) (p = 0.012) and hyperoxemic episodes were shorter (p = 0.012). In both groups, CLAC reduced the duration of desaturations (SpO2 < 92%, p < 0.001). In CDH infants, CLAC increased the time spent in target oxygen range by 34% (p = 0.036) and the median duration of desaturations was reduced (p = 0.028).

Conclusion

CLAC may be more useful in infants with more severe respiratory distress.
Mapping bacterial biofilm on explanted orthopedic hardware: An analysis of 14 consecutive cases
Authors: Brooks Jacob R. , Chonko Douglas J. , Pigott Matthew , Sullivan Anne C. , Moore Kelly , Stoodley Paul
Published: January 2023

Hardware implanted during primary total joint arthroplasty carries a serious risk for periprosthetic joint infection (PJI). The formation of bacterial biofilms, which are highly tolerant of antibiotics and host immunity, is recognized as being a major barrier to treatment. It is not known whether some components and their surface features are more prone to biofilm than others. This study attempted to map biofilm on different components and features of orthopedic hardware recovered during revision. Implant surface culture (ISC) was used on 53 components from 14 hip and knee revisions. ISC achieves a thin agar coating over components, followed by incubation and observation for colony outgrowth over 9 days. Recovered organisms were identified by selective culture and 16s rRNA sequencing. Outcomes were compared with clinical culturing and PJI diagnosis based on 2013 Musculoskeletal Infection Society criteria. ISC paralleled clinical culturing with a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 57.1%. When compared to Musculoskeletal Infection Society criteria, sensitivity remained at 100% while specificity was 80%. Biofilm accumulation was patchy and heterogeneous throughout different prostheses, though notably the non‐articulating surfaces between the tibial tray and polyethylene insert showed consistent growth. On individual components, ridges and edges consistently harbored biofilm, while growth elsewhere was case dependent. ISC successfully identified microbial growth with high sensitivity while also revealing that biofilm growth was commonly localized to particular locations. Understanding where biofilm formation occurs most often on implanted hardware will help guide debridement, retention choices, and implant design.
Short Research Article: Changes in life functioning in a self‐help, online program for child and adolescent anxiety
Authors: Rowe Arlen K. , Evans Jocelyn L. , Donovan Caroline L. , Spence Susan H. , March Sonja
Published: January 2023

Background

Anxiety‐related functional impairment, as reflected by life interference, is a lesser explored but highly relevant treatment outcome, and it is crucial that it be included and examined in the evaluation of treatment outcomes of internet‐delivered Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (iCBT).

Methods

This single group, pre‐post study examined changes in life interference and anxiety symptoms in a sample of children (n = 1198; mean age 9.66 years) and adolescents (n = 721; mean age 13.66 years) participating in the BRAVE Self‐Help program in Australia.

Results

Results demonstrated that both children and adolescents showed improvements in anxiety symptoms, with effect sizes ranging from ηp2 = .194–.318. Reductions in life interference were evident for children (ηp2 = .008–.044), particularly later in the programme, but adolescents did not show such effects. Adolescents in the low completer group (completing 3–5 sessions) showed increases in at‐home interference (ηp2 = .038).

Conclusions

Adolescents in particular may require more sessions before entrenched life interference, such as that resulting from avoidance behaviours, can be overcome.