bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Collective protection against the type VI secretion system in bacteria
Authors: Granato Elisa T. , Smith William P. J. , Foster Kevin R.
Published: September 2022

Bacteria commonly face attacks from other strains using the type VI secretion system (T6SS), a molecular speargun that stabs and intoxicates competitors. Here we show how bacteria can work together to collectively defend themselves against these attacks. This project began with an outreach activity: while developing an online computer game of bacterial warfare, we noticed that one strategist (‘Slimy’) that made extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) was able to resist attacks from another strategist that employed the T6SS (‘Stabby’). This observation motivated us to model this scenario more formally, using dedicated agent-based simulations. The model predicts that EPS production can serve as a collective defence mechanism, which protects both producing cells and neighbouring cells that do not make EPS. We then tested our model with a synthetic community that contains a T6SS-wielding attacker (Acinetobacter baylyi), and two T6SS-sensitive target strains (Escherichia coli) that either secrete EPS, or not. As predicted by our modelling, we find that the production of EPS leads to collective protection against T6SS attacks, where EPS producers protect each other and nearby non-producers. We identify two processes that explain this protection: EPS sharing between cells and a second general mechanism whereby groups of resistant cells shield susceptible cells (‘flank protection’). Our work shows how EPS-producing bacteria can work together to defend themselves from the type VI secretion system.
Decoding of the ubiquitin code for clearance of colliding ribosomes by the RQT complex
Authors: Matsuo Yoshitaka , Uchihashi Takayuki , Inada Toshifumi
Published: September 2022

The collision sensor Hel2 specifically recognizes colliding ribosomes and ubiquitinates the ribosomal protein uS10, leading to noncanonical subunit dissociation by the ribosome-associated quality control trigger (RQT) complex. Although uS10 ubiquitination is essential for rescuing stalled ribosomes, its function and recognition steps are not fully understood. Here, we showed that the RQT complex components Cue3 and Rqt4 interacted with the K63-linked ubiquitin chain and accelerated the recruitment of the RQT complex to the ubiquitinated colliding ribosome. The CUE domain of Cue3 and the N-terminal domain of Rqt4 bound independently to the K63-linked ubiquitin chain. Their deletion abolished ribosomal dissociation mediated by the RQT complex. High-speed atomic force microscopy (HS-AFM) reveals that the intrinsically disordered regions of Rqt4 enabled the expansion of the searchable area for interaction with the ubiquitin chain. These findings provide mechanistic insight into the decoding of the ubiquitin code for clearance of colliding ribosomes by the RQT complex.
Residual audit fee and real income smoothing: evidence from quoted non-financial firms in Nigeria
Authors: Egbunike Chinedu Francis , Igbinovia Ikponmwosa Michael , Okafor Kenebechukwu Jane , Mmadubuobi Lucy Cecilia
Published: September 2022

Purpose

The study investigated the relationship between residual audit fee and real income smoothening, proxied as real operating cash flow and production expenditure smoothing of non-financial firms in Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach

The study relied on secondary data from annual financial statements of 75 firms in the non-financial sector from 2010 to 2019. The study estimated the residual audit fee using a modified model from several contexts to suit the Nigerian environment. The hypotheses were tested using the dynamic panel GMM estimation procedure.

Findings

The results showed a significant negative effect of residual audit fee on (real) operating cash flow smoothing and production expenditure smoothing of non-financial firms. The control variables showed mixed effects for the industry-related (firm size and profitability), auditor attribute (audit quality and audit report lag) and the board related (board size and board independence).

Research limitations/implications

The firms included in the analysis were selected based on data availability from MachameRatios® and the occurrence of missing values for some of the variables used in the various estimation models may bias results.

Practical implications

The study identifies the nexus between RAF and real earnings management practices of non-financial firms; and shows the implication of fee payment to the overall conduct of the audit. More so, the mixed findings from the CVs suggest that in the context of developing economies, shareholders and capital markets regulators should be watchful of residual audit fees and utilise it as a gauge for audit quality and also an indicator of opportunism and weak internal control in the firm in the future assessments.

Social implications

The implication of the study stems from its relevance to the capital market stability and the potential negative disastrous effect of corporate failure from earnings management practices.

Originality/value

The study develops a newly residual audit fee model to explore the effect of RAF on real income smoothing rather than the widely used models from prior literature; secondly, the focus on real activities manipulation may present additional evidence that applies to developing countries rather the widely used accrual measurement technique from an economic bonding perspective.
Trends in research: carbon footprint reduction in universities as a way to achieve a green campus
Authors: da Silva Liziane Araújo , Dutra Ana Regina de Aguiar , Soares Thiago Coelho , Birch Robert Samuel , Guerra José Baltazar Salgueirinho Osório de Andrade
Published: September 2022

Purpose

Reducing our carbon footprint (CF) or decarbonizing is a sustainable development goal. Although there has been an increase in research on this topic, little is known about the status of CF research within universities. The purpose of this paper is to identify the initiatives implemented in universities aimed at reducing CF in their efforts toward creating a Green Campus.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a bibliometric method, the status of this field of research was examined for the purpose of identifying the main publications and the most central researchers in terms of productivity and citations. Also, by using an exploratory factor analysis (EFA), the regions of the world with the most active research, as well as the direction of research, were identified.

Findings

The survey identified the region that published the most on the subject in the past 10 years, as well as the most relevant authors in the publications. Through this factor analysis, it was possible to identify, among the 105 publications analyzed, four distinct factors (clusters) with different thematic strands that appear to define a difference between the related studies on this topic. These factors were identified as campus management: supply and consumption operations; greenhouse gases emissions assessment: CF calculation; university air travel; sustainable food systems. The changes in people’s attitudes and in the use of university spaces during the COVID-19 pandemic in relation to the CF was also noted as a point that can be investigated in future research. As well as the reflection of the reduction in academic air travel and the “forced” occurrence of online events during the same period.

Originality/value

The paper aims to innovate by applying the multidimensional scaling method and EFA to scientific articles on the topic of decarbonizing campuses and identifying the clusters that constitute this field of study. The research seeks to contribute to current metric knowledge on the topic and to the creation of a specific research agenda.
Classical paradigms versus complexity thinking in engineering education: an essential discussion in the education for sustainable development
Authors: Sigahi Tiago F.A.C. , Rampasso Izabela Simon , Anholon Rosley , Sznelwar Laerte Idal
Published: September 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to discuss how the theory of complex thinking can be considered an interesting element in engineering education, especially in the context in which challenges toward sustainable development are multidisciplinary.

Design/methodology/approach

This viewpoint synthesizes the main reflections and discussions generated during a process of debate, research and creation of a proposal for an undergraduate engineering course at a higher education institution in Brazil. The literature on engineering education, sustainability and complexity was considered in an integrated way. Debates were conducted considering the authors’ knowledge and experience as professors of engineering courses and researchers in the field of sustainability. A qualitative and reflexive approach was used to organize the main discussions.

Findings

The prevailing classical engineering paradigm trains professionals to think from a Cartesian, reductionist perspective, appropriate for solving well-structured problems with known solution paths and convergent answers. However, addressing sustainability challenges requires a different kind of thinking capable of dealing with situations characterized by uncertainty, emergence and incompleteness of knowledge. Complexity thinking can be useful for this purpose as it provides a broad system approach to deal with ill-defined, ill-structured and unpredictable problems. This study can be understood as a call to researchers and professionals to consider the value and importance of complexity thinking to advance engineering education for sustainability.

Originality/value

The need to overcome the limits of the classical engineering paradigm is emphasized in the context of sustainability. Complex thinking is considered as a path toward a paradigm shift in engineering education for sustainability. It can contribute to the training of professionals to face pressing challenges now and in the future. This viewpoint provides some insights to enhance debates on education engineering.
The effects of social media addiction on reading practice: a survey of undergraduate students in China
Authors: Liu Ziming , Hu Rui , Bi Xiaojun
Published: September 2022

Purpose

The prevalence of digital reading and the widespread use of social media among young people demands systematic exploration of the effects of social media addiction on students' reading practice. This paper aims to explore the effects of social media addiction on reading preferences, in-depth reading and sustained attention.

Design/methodology/approach

Survey and analysis methods are employed.

Findings

For many, social media provides an ideal platform of connection and expression; however, prolonged social media use holds the danger of becoming a behavioral addiction that threatens to undermine one's reading practice. Social media use tends to have a more significant impact on leisure reading than on academic reading. Obsessive engagement with social media hurts reading concentration and in-depth reading. While a majority (70.4%) of those surveyed believed that chronic social media use carries more harm than good on their learning, only half (50.1%) agreed or strongly agreed that today's students are too indulged in social media and need forceful control of it.

Originality/value

Implications of the effects of social media on reading practice are discussed, and directions for future research are suggested. It is likely that social media will continue to be seductive, attracting new generations of young people. Future research should explore prevention strategies.
Determinants and consequences of integrated reporting disclosures of non-financial listed firms in an emerging economy
Authors: Senani K.G.P. , Ajward Roshan , Kumari J.S.
Published: September 2022

Purpose

This study aims to examine the determinants and consequences of integrated reporting (IR) disclosures of listed non-financial firms in an emerging economy.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses data from 39 listed non-financial firms that had adopted IR disclosure framework in Sri Lanka for the period from 2011 to 2018. Firm size, growth opportunity, profitability and firm age are considered significant determinants of IR disclosure, while their consequences are measured in terms of share price, Tobin’s Q, return on assets and return on equity. The authors used the results of the correlation and panel regression analyses to draw this study’s conclusions.

Findings

This study finds that firm size and age are the significant determinants of IR disclosure, which is consistent with this study’s expectations. Considering the consequences of IR disclosure, only share price and Tobin’s Q show significant results as per the panel regression analyses.

Practical implications

The findings of this study would be useful in the decision-making processes of existing and prospective investors, regulators, policymakers and society at large. Further, the findings of this study communicate the benefits of this new reporting paradigm in shaping their disclosures in the annual corporate reporting process.

Originality/value

Although existing studies attempted to examine the determinants of IR disclosure and its consequences as isolated studies, this study provides new insights by merging these two aspects into a single study and consider several determinants and consequences as well.
The effect of optimal port operations on global maritime transportation: a study of selected ports in Nigeria
Authors: Edih University Ovuokeroye , Igemohia Fidelia , Faghawari Nyanayon
Published: September 2022

Purpose

The study examined the effect of optimal port operations on global maritime transportation among selected ports in Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach

It considered research questions such as are the ports in Nigeria functional, are the ports functioning to optimal capacity and are there challenges affecting smooth operations in the Nigerian ports? The study tested the null hypothesis which states that there is no positive and significant relationship between a functional port system and maritime transportation in Nigeria. The nonparametric statistics, chi-square, were used to analyze data. Data were gathered through a questionnaire administered to three major ports in Nigeria, namely Lagos Port Complex (LPC), Port Harcourt Old port and Warri Port.

Findings

From the analysis, findings showed that there exists a positive and significant relationship between operations in the ports and maritime transportation in Nigeria. Practical implications: The study showed that the moribund state of some ports and terminals will result in loss of jobs and huge revenue, therefore, compounding the menace of unemployment with its associated vices.

Originality/value

The study concludes that the operations of a functional port affect the economic growth of maritime nations. Thus, it is recommended that government and the private sector should collaborate to raise adequate capital for port development and improve the super structures (infrastructures) for optimal port operations in the country among others.
Microbial enzymes will offer limited solutions to the global plastic pollution crisis
Authors: Chow Jennifer , Perez‐Garcia Pablo , Dierkes Robert , Streit Wolfgang R.
Published: September 2022

Global economies depend on the use of fossil‐fuel‐based polymers with 360–400 million metric tons of synthetic polymers being produced per year. Unfortunately, an estimated 60% of the global production is disposed into the environment. Within this framework, microbiologists have tried to identify plastic‐active enzymes over the past decade. Until now, this research has largely failed to deliver functional biocatalysts acting on the commodity polymers such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinylchloride (PVC), ether‐based polyurethane (PUR), polyamide (PA), polystyrene (PS) and synthetic rubber (SR). However, few enzymes are known to act on low‐density and low‐crystalline (amorphous) polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and ester‐based PUR. These above‐mentioned polymers represent >95% of all synthetic plastics produced. Therefore, the main challenge microbiologists are currently facing is in finding polymer‐active enzymes targeting the majority of fossil‐fuel‐based plastics. However, identifying plastic‐active enzymes either to implement them in biotechnological processes or to understand their potential role in nature is an emerging research field. The application of these enzymes is still in its infancy. Here, we summarize the current knowledge on microbial plastic‐active enzymes, their global distribution and potential impact on plastic degradation in industrial processes and nature. We further outline major challenges in finding novel plastic‐active enzymes, optimizing known ones by synthetic approaches and problems arising through falsely annotated and unfiltered use of database entries. Finally, we highlight potential biotechnological applications and possible re‐ and upcycling concepts using microorganisms.
Windfarm collisions in medium‐sized raptors: even increasing populations can suffer strong demographic impacts
Authors: Duriez O. , Pilard P. , Saulnier N. , Boudarel P. , Besnard A.
Published: September 2022

The impact of bird mortality by collision on windfarms has often been evaluated at the individual level, but rarely at the population level. The Lesser kestrel Falco naumanni is an endangered short‐lived migratory raptor, susceptible to collision with wind turbines. We evaluated the impacts of windfarm turbine collisions on the demography of the largest lesser kestrel population in France. Using data from local monitoring of reproduction and windfarm mortality surveys, combined with capture‐recapture ringing data at a nearby population, we quantified vital parameters of fecundity and survival in order to parameterize a matrix population model to study the viability of this population. The breeding success was high and varied in synchrony with survival probabilities. Between 2013 and 2020, 43 carcasses were found below wind turbines, and when accounting for carcass detection and persistence rates, the true mortality should approach 154 individuals in that period, i.e. 3% of the studied population was affected by collisions each year. The matrix model showed that the population growth observed was only possible if there was a constant recruitment of 26 immigrant individuals each year into the population. Without the excess mortality by the windfarm, we predict that this population would have 22% more breeding pairs than what was observed in 2020. Simulations over 30 years showed that, under the current immigration rate, the population should decline if the excess mortality exceeds 11%. If immigration ceases, the population would decline above 5% excess mortality per year. It is urgent to monitor and reduce the excess mortality by windfarm collisions that threatens this lesser kestrel population. More generally, we advocate the use of population matrix demographic models in impact assessment studies to avoid placing new windfarms close to rare species that could not sustain additional mortality by collisions.
When work–family guilt becomes a women's issue: Internalized gender stereotypes predict high guilt in working mothers but low guilt in working fathers
Authors: Aarntzen Lianne , Derks Belle , van Steenbergen Elianne , van der Lippe Tanja
Published: September 2022

Gender stereotypes prescribe mothers, but not fathers, to prioritize their family over their work. Therefore, internalization of gender stereotypes may predict higher guilt among mothers than fathers in situations in which they prioritize their work over their family. Study 1 (135 mothers and 116 fathers) indeed revealed that the stronger fathers' implicit gender stereotypes (measured with a gender‐career implicit association task) the less guilt fathers reported in a fictitious work‐interfering‐with‐family situation. Although mothers on average reported higher guilt than fathers, this effect was not moderated by their implicit gender stereotypes. Study 2 (daily diary study among 105 mothers), however, did reveal evidence for the moderating effect of implicit gender stereotypes on working mothers' guilt. The stronger mothers' implicit gender stereotypes the more work–family conflict and guilt they reported on days that they worked long hours. These results show that implicit gender stereotypes shape how parents feel about their work–family choices.
Glabridin inhibits urothelial bladder carcinoma cell growth in vitro and in vivo by inducing cell apoptosis and cell cycle arrest
Authors: Yang Zhao , Bi Ying , Xu Wenkai , Guo Rui , Hao Mingxuan , Liang Youfeng , Shen Zongyi , Yin Liqi , Yu Changyuan , Wang Shihui , Wang Jiansong , Li Jinmei , Zhang Jinku , Cheng Runfen , Zhai Qiongli , Wang Haifeng
Published: September 2022

Glabridin (GLA) has a variety of biological activities and therapeutic effects in cancers. Whereas the effect of GLA on urothelial bladder carcinoma (UBC) cells and its underlying mechanisms remain unknown. The study revealed the effect of GLA on UBC and the potential mechanism of inducing cell apoptosis in vivo and in vitro. After treated with different concentrations of GLA, the cell activity decreased in a time‐ and dose‐dependent manner. The IC50 values of BIU‐87 and EJ cells at 48 h were 6.02 μg/ml (18.6 μm) and 4.36 μg/ml (13.4 μm), respectively. Additionally, GLA‐induced apoptosis and cycle arrest of BIU‐87 and EJ cells in G2 phase. Furthermore, wound healing experiments showed that GLA significantly reduced the migration activities of BIU‐87 and EJ cells. Mechanically, GLA obviously increased the expression of BIM, BAK1, and CYCS in both mRNA and protein levels, which led to the activation of the endogenous apoptotic pathway. Finally, GLA remarkably inhibited the growth of UBC tumors in vivo. In summary, GLA inhibited UBC cells growth in vitro and in vivo by inducing cell apoptosis and cell cycle arrest, highlighting that GLA could be utilized as a component to design a novel anti‐UBC drug.
Interventions for children with deafblindness—An integrative review
Authors: Sundqvist Ann‐Sofie , Wahlqvist Moa , Anderzén‐Carlsson Agneta , Olsson Emma
Published: September 2022

Background

Deafblindness is a rare condition, and its prevalence has been reported to be approximately 1 in 27 000 new‐borns worldwide. For individuals with deafblindness, lifelong interventions and support are needed to be able to develop communication, be active and preserve a good quality of life. Because little is known about what kind of support and interventions can be offered to children with deafblindness, the aim was to summarize and disseminate research findings regarding this topic.

Methods

Integrative review principles were employed. Systematic searches in eight databases and additional manual searches were conducted. The inclusion criteria were as follows: original studies published between 2000 and 2021 examining either interventions for children between 0 and 18 years of age with deafblindness or interventions aimed at children with deafblindness but offered to their relatives or professionals working with them. Studies on support for family members were also sought. Study characteristics were described, and key findings were synthesized into categories based on their similarities.

Results

Of the 6268 identified original studies, 32 were included. The key outcomes from the included studies were synthesized into three categories, with two categories illustrating the goal/intention of the intervention (social interaction and communication, motivation and participation) and one focusing on or identifying the action taken to benefit the child (adaptation of the educational environment). Social interaction and communication was the dominant category, covering 24 of the 32 included studies.

Conclusions

This review concludes that there are a limited number of evaluated interventions for children with deafblindness. In many cases, the interventions were adapted to the individual child's needs, and most of them were found within the area of social interaction and communication. More research is needed to strengthen the level of evidence for interventions for children with deafblindness.
Effect of semantics in the study of tolerance for wolves
Authors: Carlson Shelby C. , Dietsch Alia M. , Slagle Kristina M. , Bruskotter Jeremy T.
Published: September 2022

As conservation scholars increasingly recognize the critical role of human thought and behavior in determining the persistence of biodiversity across the globe, a growing line of inquiry regarding the validity and comparability of previous applications of core psychological concepts has emerged. Specifically, inconsistent measurement and use of terms, such as attitudes and acceptance, reveal important questions about previous approaches. Given that these concepts differ by definition, yet have been used interchangeably, we explored what drives differences in people's responses when each concept is operationalized in the context of a contested wildlife species, the gray wolf (Canis lupus). To do so, we used data from a 2014 survey of U.S. residents (n = 1287) to test how measures of six concepts (i.e., acceptance, attitudes, benefits, risks, [prior] behavior, and behavioral intentions) often employed in the conservation social sciences were related with a broad set of possible explanatory variables. Despite moderate to strong correlations between all concepts measured (| Pearson's r | = 0.39–0.65, p < 0.001), results revealed considerable variation in their respective relationships with identical explanatory variables. Specifically, although wildlife value orientation (i.e., domination or mutualism) operated fairly consistently across cognitive and behavioral concepts, the relationship between the six concepts and other factors, such as social trust, identification with various interest groups (i.e., hunter, farmer, or rancher, environmentalist, and animal rights advocate), and political ideology (i.e., liberal vs. conservative), varied considerably. Our findings underscore that differences exist in these measures, which could have serious implications for conservationists integrating social science findings in their decision‐making processes if they are unaware of the theoretical underpinnings of and distinctions between core psychological concepts.
Learning curve for peroral endoscopic myotomy in therapeutic endoscopy experts and nonexperts: Large single‐center experience
Authors: Fujiyoshi Yusuke , Inoue Haruhiro , Fujiyoshi Mary Raina Angeli , Rodriguez de Santiago Enrique , Nishikawa Yohei , Toshimori Akiko , Tanabe Mayo , Shimamura Yuto , Sumi Kazuya , Ono Masashi , Shiwaku Hironari , Ikeda Haruo , Onimaru Manabu
Published: September 2022

Objectives

Reports on learning curve for peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) in therapeutic endoscopy nonexperts are limited. We aimed to assess the number of cases required to achieve POEM proficiency for endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) experts and nonexperts.

Methods

This is a retrospective study at the largest POEM referral center in Japan. POEM between April 2014 and December 2020 were included. Nonexperts and ESD experts were divided by training phases: A, 1–20; B, 21–40; C, 41–60; D, 61–80; and E, 81–100 cases. Primary outcome was operation time, and the phase to reach target time (83 min) was investigated. Secondary outcomes were clinical success rate, adverse events, and post‐POEM gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Results

Five hundred and sixty‐six cases were performed by 14 nonexperts, and 555 cases by 15 ESD experts. As the primary outcome, operation time in nonexperts was: A, 95 (79–115.8); B, 86.5 (71–105); C, 80 (70–100); D, 73 (64.5–100.5); and E, 73.5 (57.8–88.8) min, while in ESD experts: A, 90 (74–128); B, 77 (70–92); and C, 77 (70–93.5) min (median [interquartile range]). Operation time decreased significantly as experience increased in both groups (P < 0.001), and nonexperts required 41–60 cases to achieve proficiency, while experts required 21–40 cases. As secondary outcomes, in nonexperts, clinical success was 96.9–100%, adverse events were 5.0–9.2%, symptomatic GERD was 11.8–26.5%, and proton pump inhibitor (PPI) intake was 11.5–18.7% in each phase. While in experts, clinical success was 96.2–100%, adverse events were 3.0–5.8%, symptomatic GERD was 14.6–22.0%, and PPI intake was 12.6–17.9%. There were no significant differences among training phases.

Conclusions

Non‐ESD experts require more cases to achieve proficiency in POEM. These results are useful for establishing POEM training programs and institutional implementation of the procedure.
Fichte and Hegel on free time
Authors: Heisenberg Thimo
Published: September 2022

To us today, it seems intuitive that an ideal society would secure for its citizens some time for leisure that is, some time to do “whatever they want” after having attended to their various responsibilities and natural needs. But, in this essay, I argue that—in 19th century social philosophy—the status of leisure (Muße) in an ideal society was actually surprisingly controversial: whereas J.G. Fichte makes a strong case for leisure as part of an ideal society (going even so far as considering it its central good), G.W.F. Hegel implicitly argues against this idea. For him, leisure is a crook that we only need as long as the social conditions are not sufficiently ideal—whereas a truly rational society would create a new type of work that subsumes the benefits of leisure into work itself. In this essay, I reconstruct this largely forgotten disagreement and argue that although both positions contain an important overstatement, each includes an important lesson for the contemporary debate on leisure and society.
Pregnancy outcomes after early fetal exposure to injectable first‐line treatments, dimethyl fumarate, or natalizumab in Danish women with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Andersen Johanna Balslev , Sellebjerg Finn , Magyari Melinda
Published: September 2022

Background and purpose

Data on pregnancy outcomes following fetal exposure to disease‐modifying drugs (DMDs) in women with multiple sclerosis (MS) are sparse although growing.

Methods

Data from the Danish Multiple Sclerosis Registry were linked with nationwide registries enabling an investigation of adverse pregnancy outcomes in newborns of women with MS following fetal exposure to injectable first‐line treatments, dimethyl fumarate, glatiramer acetate, or natalizumab. Logistic regression models accounting for clustered data were used to estimate odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for individual and composite adverse outcomes after adjusting for relevant covariates.

Results

A total of 1009 DMD‐exposed pregnancies were compared with 1073 DMD‐unexposed pregnancies as well as 91,112 pregnancies from the general population. No association of an increased risk of any perinatal outcome was found when comparing newborns with fetal exposure with the general population, including preterm birth (OR = 1.19, 95% CI = 0.86–1.64), small for gestational age (OR = 1.38, 95% CI = 0.92–2.07), spontaneous abortion (OR = 1.04, 95% CI = 0.84–1.27), congenital malformation (OR = 0.99, 95% CI = 0.68–1.45), low Apgar score (OR = 0.62, 95% CI = 0.23–1.65), stillbirth (OR = 1.05, 95% CI = 0.33–3.31), placenta complication (OR = 0.53, 95% CI = 0.22–1.27), and any adverse event (OR = 1.10, 95% CI = 0.93–1.30). Similar results were found when comparing DMD‐exposed pregnancies with DMD‐unexposed pregnancies.

Conclusions

We found no increased association of adverse pregnancy outcomes in newborns with fetal exposure to DMDs when compared with either DMD‐unexposed pregnancies or the general population.
Maintenance of response and predictive factors of 1‐year GalcanezumAb treatment in real‐life migraine patients in Italy: The multicenter prospective cohort GARLIT study
Authors: Vernieri Fabrizio , Brunelli Nicoletta , Marcosano Marilena , Aurilia Cinzia , Egeo Gabriella , Lovati Carlo , Favoni Valentina , Perrotta Armando , Maestrini Ilaria , Rao Renata , d'Onofrio Luigi , Finocchi Cinzia , Aguggia Marco , Bono Francesco , Ranieri Angelo , Albanese Maria , Di Piero Vittorio , Cevoli Sabina , Altamura Claudia , Barbanti Piero ,   for the GARLIT Study Group
Published: September 2022

Background and Purpose

To evaluate the 1‐year effectiveness and tolerability of galcanezumab in real life and the prognostic indicators of persistent response.

Methods

High‐frequency episodic migraine (HFEM) and chronic migraine (CM) patients treated with galcanezumab who completed a 1‐year observation were enrolled. The primary outcomes assessed during the 12 months (V1–V12) were the change in monthly migraine days (MMDs) from baseline and the response rates ≥50% in MMDs (MMD ≥50% RR). The secondary outcomes were changes in pain intensity (numerical rating scale [NRS]) and in monthly acute medication intake (MAMI).

Results

We enrolled 191 patients (77.5% CM). Twenty‐three patients (12%) dropped out, two for nonserious adverse events. At least 40% of patients took add‐on standard preventives from baseline to V12. At V12, MMDs were reduced by 6.0 days in HFEM and by 11.9 days in CM patients (both p < 0.00001); NRS and MAMI were also decreased in both groups (p < 0.00001). One‐hundred eight (56.5%) patients presented MMD ≥50% RR for 9 cumulative months (interquartile range=8): we defined this value as the cutoff for a persistent response. Persistent responders were less likely to have a higher body mass index (BMI) (p = 0.007) but more frequently had a good response to triptans (p = 0.005) and MMD ≥50% RR at V1 (p < 0.0000001). Patients without a persistent response were on add‐on therapy for longer periods of time (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Galcanezumab was effective and well‐tolerated in the 1‐year term, with most patients presenting MMD ≥50% RR for at least 9 months. Triptan response, lower BMI, and MMD ≥50% RR in the first month emerged as predictive factors for a persistent response.
Antagonistic, synergistic, and additive antibacterial interaction between ciprofloxacin and amoxicillin against Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Gómez‐Sánchez Eduardo , Franco‐de la Torre Lorenzo , Hernández‐Gómez Adriana , Alonso‐Castro Ángel Josabad , Serafín‐Higuera Nicolás , Terán‐Rosales Flavio , Bologna‐Molina Ronell Eduardo , Isiordia‐Espinoza Mario Alberto
Published: September 2022

The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the interaction between ciprofloxacin and amoxicillin against beta‐lactamase‐producing Staphylococcus aureus. Concentration‐dependent curves for each individual drug were carried out to obtain the mean inhibitory concentration in the agar well diffusion assay. Then, different ratios of the ciprofloxacin–amoxicillin combination (0.5:0.5, 0.8:0.2, 0.2:0.8, 0.9:0.1, 0.1:0.9, 0.95:0.05, and 0.05:0.95) were assessed. Data were analyzed using the isobolographic analysis and interaction index. The isobolographic evaluation shows that the 0.9:0.1 and 0.95:0.05 ratios of the ciprofloxacin–amoxicillin combination produced a synergistic antimicrobial interaction, the 0.8:0.2, 0.2:0.8, 0.1:0.9, and 0.05:0.95 proportions showed an additive antibacterial effect, and the 0.5:0.5 proportion induced antagonistic antimicrobial effects. The interaction index showed similar outcomes to the isobolographic analysis. In conclusion, the data of this study mainly show antimicrobial additive results of the ciprofloxacin–amoxicillin combination against beta‐lactamase‐producing S. aureus.
Thermal traits of freshwater macroinvertebrates vary with feeding group and phylogeny
Authors: Tomczyk Nathan J. , Rosemond Amy D. , Rogers Phoenix A. , Cummins Carolyn S.
Published: September 2022

Functional traits of organisms, especially feeding traits, influence how organisms mediate ecosystem processes. As climate change, landscape modification and industrial waste heat release continue to increase water temperatures, shifts in the composition of feeding traits within aquatic macroinvertebrate communities may alter ecosystem processes. However, it is unclear whether thermal traits of macroinvertebrates vary systematically across functional feeding groups (FFGs; i.e., categories based on feeding ecology such as herbivores, shredders, predators, etc.) or phylogeny.

We used previously published datasets on hundreds of macroinvertebrate taxa to evaluate how thermal traits differed across FFGs. We also examined the strength of phylogenetic signal in both FFG and thermal traits, using a new phylogeny of insect taxa. Then, we tested whether phylogenetic patterns offered a plausible explanation for differences in thermal traits among FFGs by comparing phylogenetic and non‐phylogenetic regressions.

Shredders tended to have lower temperature preferences, optima and maxima (three of five of the thermal traits evaluated) than other FFGs. Patterns for other FFGs differed by thermal trait, but predators, collector‐gatherers and filterers had some of the highest thermal trait values. FFG explained 40% of the variation in critical thermal maximum, but <12% of the variation in the four other thermal traits.

Phylogeny explained 26%–88% of the variation in thermal and feeding traits. For the subset of taxa and trait data that were available, phylogeny explained more than double the variation in thermal traits relative to FFG, but comparison of phylogenetic and non‐phylogenetic regressions highlighted that FFG explained variation in thermal traits that was independent of phylogeny.

Our results highlight phylogeny and FFG as predictors of thermal traits in aquatic macroinvertebrates. Our results suggest that warmer water temperatures could favour predators, filterers and collector‐gatherers over shredders. Furthermore, our results confirm that certain orders of macroinvertebrates, such as Diptera, may be better suited to warmer temperatures than other orders, such as Plecoptera.
Nutrient management and bioaugmentation interactively shape plant–microbe interactions inMiscanthus × giganteus
Authors: Kane Jennifer L. , Robinson Marshall C. , Schartiger Ronald G. , Freedman Zachary B. , McDonald Louis M. , Skousen Jeffrey G. , Morrissey Ember M.
Published: September 2022

Marginal lands are an untapped source of agricultural potential, particularly regarding high‐yielding, low‐input bioenergy crops likeMiscanthus × giganteus(Miscanthus).Miscanthusis of specific interest because it can be productive and sequester carbon in soil even under the stressful conditions present on some degraded lands. A key component of these abilities is the interaction ofMiscanthuswith its soil and root microbiome. Microbial functions depend on the nutrient status of soil, and hence are sensitive to fertilization regimes. Nevertheless, little is known about how fertilization strategies affect the partnership ofMiscanthuswith its microbial associates. Here, we tested the individual and interactive effects of nutrient addition and bioaugmentation (i.e., the addition of microbial communities) onMiscanthusperformance and microbiome function in marginal soil. We found that the effect of nutrient addition onMiscanthusbiomass yield depended on nutrient addition type (i.e., organic or inorganic nutrients) and whether bioaugmentation was also applied. Some microbial functions, like free‐living nitrogen fixation and carbon use efficiency, were sensitive to nutrient addition depending on whether bioaugmentation was also applied. On the other hand, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus colonization of roots decreased with fertilization regardless of bioaugmentation. These results imply that managing microbial communities may regulate the effect of nutrient addition on plant–microbe interactions that in part determine system productivity and environmental impact.
‘Language has been granted too much power’.1,p.1 Challenging the power of words with time and flexibility in the precommencement stage of research involving those with cognitive impairment
Authors: Locock Louise , O'Donnell Deirdre , Donnelly Sarah , Ellis Liz , Kroll Thilo , Shé Éidín Ní , Ryan Sara
Published: September 2022

Meaningful and inclusive involvement of all people affected by research in the design, management and dissemination of that research requires skills, time, flexibility and resources. There continue to be research practices that create implicit and explicit exclusion of some members of the public who may be ‘seldom heard’ or ‘frequently ignored’. Our focus is particularly on the involvement of people living with cognitive impairment, including people with one of the many forms of dementia and people with learning disabilities. We reflect especially on issues relating to the precommencement stage of research. We suggest that despite pockets of creative good practice, research culture remains a distinct habitus that continues to privilege cognition and articulacy in numerous ways. We argue that in perpetuating this system, some researchers and the institutions that govern research are committing a form of bureaucratic violence. We call for a reimagining of the models of research governance, funding and processes to incorporate the time and flexibility that are essential for meaningful involved research, particularly at the precommencement stage. Only then will academic health and social science research that is truly collaborative, engaged, accessible and inclusive be commonplace.

Public and Patient Contribution

This viewpoint article was written by a research network of academics with substantial experience in undertaking and researching patient and public involvement and codesign work with representatives of the public and patients right across the health system. Our work guided the focus of this viewpoint as we reflected on our experiences.
Barriers of and strategies for shared decision‐making implementation in the care of metastatic breast cancer: A qualitative study among patients and healthcare professionals in an Asian country
Authors: Lee Ping Yein , Cheong Ai Theng , Ghazali Sazlina Shariff , Rashid Aneesa Abdul , Ong Siu Ching , Ong Soo Ying , Alip Adlinda , Sylvia McCarthy , Chen May Feng , Taib Nur Aishah , Jaganathan Maheswari , Ng Chirk Jenn , Teo Soo‐Hwang
Published: September 2022

Background

Shared decision‐making has been shown to improve the quality of life in metastatic breast cancer patients in high‐literacy and high‐resource settings. However, limited studies have examined the cultural preferences of metastatic breast cancer patients with shared decision‐making implementation and the barriers encountered in an Asian setting where societal norms predominate and physician decision‐making is at the forefront. This paper aims to identify (1) barriers to practising shared decision‐making faced by healthcare professionals and patients and (2) strategies for implementing shared decision‐making in the context of metastatic breast cancer management in Malaysia.

Methods

We conducted a qualitative study involving 12 patients diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer, 16 healthcare professionals and 5 policymakers from surgical and oncology departments at public healthcare centres in Malaysia. Semi‐structured in‐depth interviews and focus group discussions were conducted. The interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using the thematic approach. Nvivo software was used to manage and analyse the data.

Results

Five main themes emerged from the study: healthcare provider–patient communication, workforce availability, cultural and belief systems, goals of care and paternalism versus autonomy. Other strategies proposed to overcome barriers to implementing shared decision‐making were training of healthcare professionals and empowering nurses to manage patients' psychosocial issues.

Conclusion

This study found that practising shared decision‐making in the public health sector remains challenging when managing patients with metastatic breast cancer. The utilization of decision‐making tools, patient empowerment and healthcare provider training may help address the system and healthcare provider–patient barriers identified in this study.

Patient or Public Contribution

Patients were involved in the study design, recruitment and analysis.
Effects of wet milling on the properties of highland barley flour and the quality of highland barley bread
Authors: He Yue , Xi Huihan , Chen Zhiying , Nie Mengzi , Qin Wanyu , Wang Aixia , Liu Liya , Wang Lili , Sun Jing , Bai Yajuan , Huang Yatao , Wang Fengzhong , Tong Li‐Tao
Published: September 2022

To explore the effects of wet milling method on highland barley flour and highland barley bread, we investigated the characteristics of highland barley flours and the quality of highland barley breads made from whole grain highland barley flour (WGBF), dry‐milled highland barley flour (DBF) and wet‐milled highland barley flour (WBF). Compared to other highland barley flours, WBF had lower damaged starch content (1.37 g/100 g), higher pasting temperature and higher gel strength. In addition, WBF with large particles exhibited low hydration performance. These properties induced a large specific volume (2.62 mL g−1) and good crumb structure of bread with WBF. However, due to the negative effects of damaged starch and insoluble dietary fibre in WGBF and DBF, the specific volumes of bread with WGBF and DBF (1.30 and 1.70 mL g−1) were lower than the bread with WBF. The results showed that WBF with high starch granules integrity could produce preferable highland barley bread.
Quality control traceability during the packing and release process of Ceratitis capitata for sterile insect technique
Authors: Contreras‐Navarro Yair , Luis‐Alvarez Heliodoro , García‐Coapio Guadalupe , Hernández Refugio , Flores Salvador , Montoya Pablo
Published: September 2022

In programmes applying the sterile insect technique (SIT), the quality of insects deployed in the field determines the success in preventing, suppressing, containing or eradicating the pest population. In the fruit fly emergence and release facility (ERF) of the Moscamed Program in Mexico, irradiated pupae of Ceratitis capitata are packed in Mexico‐type towers, and key adult quality parameters, such as emergence, fliers and survival, are determined throughout the packing, handling and release process. However, different methodologies are used to estimate the percentage of fliers in the different stages of the process, raising doubts of whether observed differences are due to the effect of each stage or to the methodology used. With this in mind, we developed an alternative called ‘Adult Flier device’ (=AF‐device) to evaluate the adult flier parameter following a critical evaluation path of five steps: (1) upon arrival at ERF, (2) post‐packing, (3) post‐holding, (4) post‐chilling and (5) post‐release, where adult fliers and survival under stress were evaluated. We also compared the current methodologies for the estimation of ‘absolute fliers’ available in different operating manuals. Our results suggest that the AF‐device allows reliable traceability of sterile insect quality parameters throughout the packing and release process, since no significant differences were observed with the control treatments. In the chilling stage, the five methodologies tested were equivalent, but the AF‐device was less time‐consuming and required less manpower and biological material than the other methodological options. Our results demonstrate that the use of the AF‐device can be a feasible, versatile, innovative and efficient alternative to evaluate quality control parameters throughout the process of packing and releasing sterile insects, providing reliable results in a timely manner with less hand labour using minimal biological material.