Trends in botanical exploration in Nigeria forecast over 1000 yet undescribed vascular plant species

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Taxonomists are primary actors of biodiversity assessment. At the same time, there is awareness by the taxonomic community at large that the field is going through a crisis, sometimes referred to as the 'taxonomic impediment'. Coupled with the ongoing biodiversity crisis, or 6th mass extinction, this biodiversity impedance puts at risk the target set in the Convention on Biological Diversity's (CBD) Global Biodiversity Framework vision 2050, which calls for urgent action to '… put biodiversity on a path to recovery by 2030 for the benefit of planet and people'. This risk is particularly pronounced in tropical African countries where taxonomic studies are done on an ad hoc basis. In this study, our aim is to investigate the historical trends in botanical exploration of vascular plants in Nigeria and forecast the near-term (50-year) description of presently unknown species, which we use to discuss scenarios of taxonomic effort that may be necessary for a comprehensive biodiversity assessment in the country.

METHODS

The study is based on a dataset from the World Checklist of Vascular Plants, containing all vascular plant species reported to occur in Nigeria. We fit nested Bayesian time series regressions to estimate the long-term trend in the rate of description of vascular plant species in Nigeria. From these models, we use an ensemble forecast to estimate the number of species descriptions by the year 2070, and then evaluate the description rates per taxonomist required to meet this estimate under different totals of active taxonomists.

KEY RESULTS

We find a striking difference in species description between Nigerian botanists and their foreign counterparts, with the former contributing relatively small numbers. Additionally, only a fraction of the authors involved in describing Nigeria's vascular plants are of indigenous origin. Our study reveals that the number of new species described annually exhibits a long-term increasing trend, with an average of 19.5 species described per year. However, after taking into account year-to-year variability and the number of taxonomists active in a given year, the long-term trend in species descriptions credibly declines over time. While the number of authors involved in describing species has generally increased over time, it has remained stable since the 1950s. Predictions for the number of new species descriptions by 2070 vary by model, with an ensemble prediction estimating 1140 species descriptions, but ranging from 1004 to 2239 between individual models.

CONCLUSIONS

The study estimates that current levels of taxonomic activity should lead to a 20 % increase in known species of vascular plants in Nigeria over the next 50 years, which is still probably an underestimate of the true, unknown species richness. Urgent action is needed to address the taxonomic impediment so that local taxonomic studies in tropical African countries can achieve the CBD's Global Biodiversity Framework vision 2050. Here, we outline some key pathways to achieving this goal.

A narrative review of the phenomenon of predatory journals to create awareness among researchers in veterinary medicine

In recent years, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of predatory journals has increased significantly. Predatory journals exploit the "open-access model" by engaging in deceptive practices such as charging high publication fees without providing the expected quality and performing insufficient or no peer review. Such behaviors undermine the integrity of scientific research and can result in researchers having trouble identifying reputable publication opportunities, particularly early-career researchers who struggle to understand and establish the correct criteria for publication in reputable journals. Publishing in journals that do not fully cover the criteria for scientific publication is also an ethical issue. This review aimed to describe the characteristics of predatory journals, differentiate between reliable and predatory journals, investigate the reasons that lead researchers to publish in predatory journals, evaluate the negative impact of predatory publications on the scientific community, and explore future perspectives. The authors also provide some considerations for researchers (particularly early-career researchers) when selecting journals for publication, explaining the role of metrics, databases, and artificial intelligence in manuscript preparation, with a specific focus on and relevance to publication in veterinary medicine.

PATTERN OF RENAL DISEASES AMONG CHILDREN ATTENDING PAEDIATRIC NEPHROLOGY CLINIC, FEDERAL TEACHING HOSPITAL, GOMBE

Introduction

Children present with a spectrum of renal diseases depending on age, sex, and geographic location among other factors. With the absence of a paediatric renal registry in Nigeria, this will provide part of the regional data necessary for the Nigerian renal registry.

Methodology

A retrospective study where cases of renal diseases that presented in a nephrology clinic over a 2-year period were retrieved from the nurses' and doctors' records and analysed.

Results

A total of 147 children were reviewed, male and female were 101 and 46 respectively with M: F being 2.2: 1. Mean age was 9.59 ± 4.58 years, age distribution were <5 years (23.0; 15.6%), 5-9 years (52; 35.4%) and ≥ 10 years (72.0; 49.0%). The majority (77.0; 52.4%) had low socioeconomic status. Majority (145; 98.6%) were acquired renal diseases while ectopic kidney (2.0; 1.4%) was the only CAKUT. Acute glomerulonephritis (49; 33.3%), urinary tract infections (37; 25.2%) and nephrotic syndrome (30.0; 20.4%) were the major acquired renal diseases. Acute kidney injury (AKI) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) were seen in 9 (6.1%) and 13 (8.8%) respectively. Urolithiasis, sickle cell nephropathy, and primary enuresis were seen in 5(3.4%) and 1 (0.7%) respectively. The mean age of children with CAKUT and acquired renal diseases were13.00 ±1.41 and 9.54±4.59 years (P=0.290) while that of AKI and CKD were 10.89±5.21 and 14.15±3.24 years respectively (P= 0.084).

Conclusion

Childhood renal diseases increase with age and are more common among adolescents, especially the chronic forms. Regular screening and aggressive treatment are recommended in adolescents.

OBSTRUCTIVE UROPATHY FROM BILATERAL URETERIC CALCULI IN AN INFANT WITH DIARRHOEA DISEASE

Introduction

Urolithiasis is the presence of mineral deposits in the urinary tract. It is rare in under-5 children and in Sub-Saharan Africa. Although metabolic abnormality is implicated in 50% of cases, infection, decreased urine volume and flow (dehydration state) have been implicated. We report a case of bilateral ureteric calculi in an infant with diarrhoea disease and dehydration.

Case Report

A.S, is an 8-month-old male with prolonged loose, large-volume stool, large-volume vomiting, high-grade fever, body weakness, and peri-orbital swelling that progressed to generalized body swelling and absent urine for 2 days. He was conscious, afebrile (36.90C), pale with anasarca. Had distended abdomen with ascites. Dyspnea, coarse crepitation, and hypoxemia. Tachycardia (PR -180/min) Hypertensive (BP - 125/79mmHg). PCV - 20%, WBC - 24,000/l, platelet - 110,000/l. Creatinine (1030 umol/l), Urea - 30mmol/l, Multi drug resistant E.Coli. Bilateral Grade II nephritis, hydro-uretero-nephrosis, right pelvi-ureteric and left vesico-ureteric junction calculi. Managed for Diarrhoea disease complicated with Bilateral Obstructive uropathy secondary to Bilateral Ureteric Calculi. Had bilateral open ureteric exploration, ureterolithotomy, Stenting, intraoperative transfusion, antibiotics, analgesics, and IVF. 24-hr post-surgery: urine output (3.26ml/kg/hr): right stent (210ml), left stent (423ml) while urethral catheter (150ml), 742umol/l, Urea: 26mmol/l 48-hr post-surgery: Urine output 5.1ml/kg/hr (1224ml/24hr); Cr: 424umol/l, Urea: 16mmo/l 5 days post-surgery: Urine output 3.1ml/kg/hr (725ml/24hr); Cr: 47umol/l, Urea: 4.6 mmo/l, Patient was discharged home and currently on follow-up in paediatric nephrology and urology clinics.

Conclusion

A high index of suspicion of obstructive uropathy in children with diarrhoea disease, and dehydration, who have developed acute kidney injury is recommended.

CASE FATALITY RATE OF CHILDHOOD TUBERCULOSIS: EXPERIENCE FROM FEDERAL TEACHING HOSPITAL GOMBE: A TWO DECADE REVIEW

Introduction

Tuberculosis (TB) was the leading cause of death from an infectious agent worldwide, until the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, ranking above HIV/AIDS. Nigeria ranks 6th among the 30 TB high-burden countries (TB, TB/HIV, DRTB) and 1st in Africa. The estimated case fatality rate (CFR) of TB in Sub-Sahara Africa (SSA) is 15%.

Objective

To review the Tuberculosis case fatality rate (TCFR) in children diagnosed with TB from 2000-2019 in Federal Teaching Hospital Gombe.

Methodology

All cases of Tuberculosis (TB) diagnosed in children using ICD 10 classification were retrieved and analyzed. These included deaths from TB. The mainstay of TB diagnosis was clinical using TB Score (81%), Gene Xpert was 7%, and AFB was 10%.

Results

26,716 children were admitted; 383 had TB out of which 208(54.3%) were males and 175 (45.7%) females. TB constituted 1.4% of Paediatric admissions. Children 0 -5 years constituted 46.7% (179/383) of cases and 11 - 18 years were 31.3% (120/383). Fulani, Hausa, and Tangale constituted 43.6% (167), 21.1% (81), and 6.8% (26) of TB cases respectively. TB admissions were highest between 2015 and 2019 (31.8%). TB adenitis was the most common extrapulmonary TB. Tuberculosis/HIV co-infection accounted for 103(27%), out of which 74% (44) died. Overall TCFR was 15.6%; TCFR was 16.3% in males and 14.8% in females. The TCFR was 46.7% in 0-5yrs; 15% in 6-9yrs and 38.3% in 10-18yrs.Fulani had the highest CFR (11.9%). Tuberculosis CFR was highest between 2010-2014 (30.0%) and lowest in 2005-2009 (21.6%).

Conclusion

The Tuberculosis CFR is comparable to SSA CFR.

Security Risks and User Perception towards Adopting Wearable Internet of Medical Things

The Wearable Internet of Medical Things (WIoMT) is a collective term for all wearable medical devices connected to the internet to facilitate the collection and sharing of health data such as blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen level, and more. Standard wearable devices include smartwatches and fitness bands. This evolving phenomenon due to the IoT has become prevalent in managing health and poses severe security and privacy risks to personal information. For better implementation, performance, adoption, and secured wearable medical devices, observing users' perception is crucial. This study examined users' perspectives of trust in the WIoMT while also exploring the associated security risks. Data analysed from 189 participants indicated a significant variance (R² = 0.553) on intention to use WIoMT devices, which was determined by the significant predictors (95% Confidence Interval; p < 0.05) perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, and perceived security and privacy. These were found to have important consequences, with WIoMT users intending to use the devices based on the trust factors of usefulness, easy to use, and security and privacy features. Further outcomes of the study identified how users' security matters while adopting the WIoMT and provided implications for the healthcare industry to ensure regulated devices that secure confidential data.

Evaluating a novel consensus bacterial 6-phytase variant on growth performance of broilers fed U.S. commercial diets deficient in nutrients and energy through 63 days of age

An experiment was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of a novel consensus bacterial 6-phytase variant expressed in Trichoderma reesei (PhyG) in broilers fed corn-soybean meal-based diets with application of dose-specific full nutrient and energy matrix values. Ross 708, straight-run broilers (n = 2,016) were assigned to one of 7 dietary treatments, with 12 replicate pens/diet and 24 birds/pen. Diets were a nutrient adequate control (PC), nutrient reduced negative controls 1, 2, and 3 (NC1, NC2, and NC3) with reductions in available phosphorus (avP) by 0.15%, 0.18%, and 0.19%, calcium (Ca) by 0.17%, 0.20%, and 0.21%, dig amino acids (AA) by 0.02%-0.05%, sodium (Na) by 0.03%-0.05%, and metabolizable energy (ME) by 62.8, 68.8, and 69.5 kcal/kg, respectively. Other diets were the NC1, NC2, and NC3 respectively supplemented with 500 (PhyG500), 1,000 (PhyG1000), and 2,000 (PhyG2000) FTU/kg. Over the 63-day feeding period, decreasing nutrient specifications lowered body weights (P < 0.05) in broilers from 4,518 g in PC to 4,256 g and 4,191 g and increased body weight-corrected feed conversion ratio (FCR, P < 0.05) from 1.92 in PC to 2.06 and 2.08 in the NC2 and NC3, respectively. Compared with PC, PhyG maintained (P > 0.05) BW in broilers fed PhyG500 (4,474 g), PhyG1000 (4,417 g), and PhyG2000 (4,449 g). Moreover, PhyG at all dose-levels maintained (P > 0.05) overall FCR vs. PC. The NC1, NC2, and NC3 diets decreased (P < 0.05) tibia ash vs. PC, and each PhyG500, PhyG1000, and PhyG2000 completely restored tibia ash to the similar levels (P > 0.05) as the PC. Carcass yield was decreased (P < 0.05) by NC1 (80.63%), NC2 (80.51%), and NC3 (80.31%) vs. PC (81.96%) with complete alleviation by PhyG500 (82.11%), PhyG1000 (81.80%), and PhyG2000 (81.54%). In conclusion, the novel consensus phytase variant completely compensated for the reduction in dietary avP, Ca, dig AA, and ME at each dose-level and maintained growth performance, bone quality, carcass characteristics, and nutrient digestibility in a typical corn-soybean mean based diet fed to broilers through 63 days of age.

Conflicts of interest in electrophysiology and devices presentations

AIMS

Industry collaboration with arrhythmia and devices research is common. However, this results in conflicts of interest (CoI) for researchers that should be disclosed. This study aimed to examine the quality of CoI disclosures in arrhythmia and devices presentations.

METHODS

Recorded presentations from the Arrhythmia & Devices section of the ESC Annual Congress 2016-2020 were assessed. The number of words, conflicts, and time displayed was documented for CoI declarations. Meta-data including sponsorship by an industry partner, presenter sex, and institution were obtained.

RESULTS

Of 1153 presentations assessed, 999 were suitable for inclusion. CoI statements were missing from 7.2% of presentations, and 58% reported ≥1 conflict. Those with conflicts spent less time-per-word on their disclosures (median 150 ms, interquartile range [IQR] 83-273 ms) compared with those without conflicts (median 250 ms, IQR 125-375 ms). One-in-eight presentations were sponsored (12.8%, n = 128). CoI statements were more likely to be missing in sponsored presentations (14.8%, n = 19) compared with non-sponsored presentations (6.1%, n = 53), P = 0.0003. Sponsored presentations contained a greater median number of CoIs (10, IQR 6-18) compared with non-sponsored sessions (1, IQR 0-5), P < 0.0001. Time-per-word spent on COI disclosures was 50% lower in sponsored sessions (125 ms, IQR 75-231 ms) compared with non-sponsored sessions (250 ms, IQR 125-375 ms), P < 0.0001.

CONCLUSION

The majority of those presenting arrhythmia and devices research have CoIs to declare. Declarations were often missing or displayed for short periods of time. Presenters in sponsored sessions, while being more conflicted, had a lower standard of declaration suggesting a higher risk of potential bias which viewers had insufficient opportunity to assess.

Ionophore coccidiostats - disposition kinetics in laying hens and residues transfer to eggs

Poultry production is linked with the use of veterinary medicinal products to manage diseases. Ionophore coccidiostats have been permitted for use as feed additives within the European Union (EU) for the prevention of coccidiosis in various species of poultry with except of laying hens. The presence of chemical residues in eggs is a matter of major concern for consumers' health. Despite such prohibition of use in laying hens, they were identified as the most common non-target poultry species being frequently exposed to these class of coccidiostats. Many factors can influence the presence of residues in eggs. Carryover of these class of coccidiostat feed additives in the feed of laying hens has been identified as the main reason of their occurrence in commercial poultry eggs. The physicochemical properties of individual compounds, the physiology of the laying hen, and the biology of egg formation are believed to govern the residue transfer rate and its distribution between the egg white and yolk compartments. This paper reviews the causes of occurrence of residues of ionophore coccidiostats in eggs within the EU with special emphasis on their disposition kinetics in laying hens, and residue transfer into eggs. Additional effort was made to highlight future modeling perspectives on the potential application of pharmacokinetic modeling in predicting drug residue transfer and its concentration in eggs.

Complete chloroplast genomes of two mint species (Lamiaceae) from Al-Madinah, Saudi Arabia: phylogenetic and genomic comparative analyses

The genus Mentha encompasses mint species cultivated for their essential oils, which are formulated into a vast array of consumer products. However, the systematics of the genus Mentha is very complicated and still uncertain. This is largely because of the presence of frequent interspecific hybridization, variation in chromosome number, cytomixis, polymorphism in morphology and essential oil composition under different environmental conditions, colonial mutant propagation, as well as the occurrence of polyploidy, aneuploidy, and nothomorphs. Here, we present the plastome assemblies for a wilt-resistant Saudi Arabian accession of Mentha longifolia (L.) Huds and an alien hybrid Mentha × verticillata L. which are 152,078 bp and 152,026 bp in length, respectively, and exhibited large single-copy (LSC) and small single-copy (SSC) regions separated by a pair of inverted repeat regions. The chloroplast genome of M. longifolia has 133 annotated genes, including 88 protein-coding genes and 37 tRNAs while M. × verticillata has 133 annotated genes, including 87 protein-coding genes and 38 tRNAs. Both cp genomes have eight rRNA genes. Phylogenetic analysis using a total chloroplast genome DNA sequence of 17 species revealed that M. longifolia sequenced in this study did not form a sister relationship with M. longifolia from another study. This opens a window for further investigations.

Antioxidant-based neuroprotective effect of dimethylsulfoxide against induced traumatic brain injury in a rats model

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) has been the result of neurological deficit and oxidative stress. This study evaluated the antioxidative neuroprotective property and learning and memory-enhancing effects of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) in a rat model after the induction of TBI. 21 albino rats with 7 rats per group were used in this study. Group I was induced with TBI and treated with DMSO at 67.5 mg/kg orally once daily which started 30 min after the induction of TBI and lasted 21 days. Group II was induced with TBI but not treated while Group III was neither induced with TBI nor treated. Assessment of behavioral function (Learning and memory, anxiety and motor function), the level of an antioxidant enzymes and their gene expression (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase), the biomarkers of oxidative stress (malondialdehyde) and S100B levels as well as brain tissues histological studies were conducted. Administration of DMSO to rats with induced TBI has improved learning and memory, locomotor function and decreased anxiety in Group I compared to Group II. Moreover, the level of S100B was significantly (p < 0.05) lower in Group I compared to Group II. Treatment with DMSO also decreased lipid peroxidation significantly (p < 0.05) compared to Group II. There exists a significant (p < 0.05) increase in CAT, SOD, and GPX activities in Group I compared to Group II. Therefore, DMSO has demonstrated a potential antioxidative neuroprotective effect through its ability to increase the level of antioxidant enzymes which they quench and inhibit the formation of ROS, thereby improving cognitive functions.

A novel consensus bacterial 6-phytase variant added to phytate-rich diets totally replaced inorganic phosphate in broilers

The capacity of a novel bacterial 6-phytase variant (PhyG) to totally replace dietary supplemental inorganic phosphate (Pi) in broilers aged one day old was evaluated using a phased dosing strategy and reduction in dietary phytate. A total of 1,248 one-day-old Ross 308 broilers were assigned to 24 pens (52 birds/pen, 12 pens/diet, six each males and females) in a complete randomised block design with a 2×2 factorial arrangement (two diets, two genders). Diets comprised: (1) a positive control (PC) based on maize, wheat and soybean meal, containing Pi from monocalcium phosphate and 2,000 XU/kg xylanase, and; (2) an inorganic phosphate-free (IPF) diet equivalent to PC but with reduced Ca (-2.0 g/kg) and supplemented with PhyG at 3,000, 2,000 and 1000 FTU/kg from d 0 to 11 (3.4 g/kg phytate-P (PP)), d 11 to 22 (3.3 g/kg PP) and d 22 to 42 (2.8 to 2.9 g/kg PP), respectively. A negative control was not included for animal welfare reasons. Tibias were collected on d 11, 22 and 42 from two birds/pen. Treatment IPF maintained or improved average daily gain (ADG), average daily feed intake and feed conversion ratio (FCR) vs PC during all phases; Body weight was higher in the IPF treatment than the PC at d 42 (+3.97%, P<0.01) and ADG during d 0 to 42 (+4.10%, P<0.01). Overall (d 0 to 42), treatment IPF improved FCR in males (-5 points vs PC, P<0.05) but not females. Tibia ash was equivalent in IPF and PC throughout, with no gender differences. In conclusion, when applied as a phased dosing strategy to diets with graded reduction in PP content, PhyG totally replaced supplemental Pi during all growth phases in males and females.

Modeling improvements in ileal digestible amino acids by a novel consensus bacterial 6-phytase variant in broilers

Data from 13 datasets from 4 trials on the effect of a novel consensus bacterial 6-phytase variant (PhyG) on the apparent ileal digestibility (AID) of amino acids (AA) in broilers were used to model AID AA responses. The datasets were obtained from 3 trial locations (New Zealand, Australia and United States) and collectively incorporated variations in diet composition (feedstuff composition, phytate-P (PP) level, limestone solubility), feed form (mash or pellet), bird genetics (strain), and age at sampling (11-35 d of age). In total, 384 observations were analyzed. First, the relationships between AID of AA (as coefficients) and increasing phytase dose level from 0 to 4,000 FTU/kg were evaluated across all datasets using exponential curve fitting. Second, the percentage unit change in AID of AA at each phytase dose level from baseline (basal diet [BD] without phytase) was calculated separately for each dataset and the data then modeled together using exponential curve fitting. The model-predicted mean coefficient of AID of total AA in basal diets was 0.76 (range 0.56 [Cys] to 0.83 [Glu]), which was increased by PhyG to 0.80 and 0.81 at 2,000 and 4,000 FTU/kg, respectively. Exponential increases in the percentage unit improvement in AID of 18 individual and of total AA with increasing phytase dose level were evident (P < 0.05). Improvements (vs. BD) at 2,000 FTU/kg and 4,000 FTU/kg, respectively, were greatest for Cys (+9.2 and +11.0% units), Met (after deduction of synthetic Met, +8.4 and +9.0% units), and Thr (after deduction of synthetic Thr, +6.2 and +7.3% units). The data demonstrated consistent improvements in the AID of AA by the phytase. The modeling results generated from data gathered from birds sampled at different ages and from different dietary settings with correction of synthetic AA for Lys, Met, Thr, and Trp, enabled a more accurate prediction of the digestible AA contribution from the diet by this novel phytase. This will allow diet-specific AA matrix recommendations to be made in commercial feed formulations.

Effects of a novel consensus bacterial 6-phytase variant on the apparent ileal digestibility of amino acids, total tract phosphorus retention and tibia ash in young broilers

The effect of a novel consensus bacterial 6-phytase variant (PhyG) on apparent ileal digestibility (AID) of amino acids (AA) and phosphorus (P) utilization in young broilers when added to diets with high phytate-P (PP) content without added inorganic phosphate (Pi) and deficient in digestible (dig) AA and metabolizable energy (ME) was investigated. A total of 256 Ross 308 male broilers were assigned to 4 treatments (8 birds/cage, 8 cages/treatment) in a completely randomized design. Treatments comprised a positive control (PC, 2,975 kcal/kg ME, 3.7 g/kg dig P, 2.83 g/kg PP, 8.4 g/kg Ca, 10.6 g/kg dig lysine), a negative control (NC) without added Pi (ME −68 kcal/kg, crude protein −10 g/kg, dig AA −0.1 to −0.4 g/kg, Ca −2.0 g/kg, dig P −2.2 g/kg, Na −0.4 g/kg vs. PC), and NC plus 500 or 1,000 FTU/kg of PhyG. Test diets were corn/soy/rapeseed-meal/rice-bran-based and fed from 5 to 15 d of age. Ileal digesta and tibias were collected on day 15. Excreta was collected during days 12 to 15 to determine P retention. The NC (vs. PC) reduced (P < 0.05) P retention (−10.4% units), tibia ash (−14.3% units), weight gain (−109 g), feed intake (−82 g) and increased FCR (from 1.199 to 1.504), confirming that the NC was extremely deficient in nutrients and energy. Phytase addition to the NC linearly (P < 0.001) improved performance, but did not fully recover it to the level of the PC due to the severe nutrients/energy reduction in NC. Phytase linearly increased P retention (P < 0.001), tibia ash (P < 0.001), AID of dry matter (P < 0.05), nitrogen (P < 0.01), gross energy (P < 0.05), and all 17 individual AA (P < 0.01). At 1,000 FTU/kg, phytase increased (P < 0.05) P retention vs. PC and NC (+14.5 and +24.9% units, respectively) and increased tibia ash vs. NC (+13.8% units), equivalent to PC. The NC decreased AID of Cys, Gly, Thr, and Met vs. PC (P < 0.05). At 1,000 FTU/kg, phytase increased AID of all 17 AA vs. NC (P < 0.01), equivalent to PC. At 1,000 FTU/kg, AID AA responses (above NC) ranged from +4.5% (Met) to +15.0% (Cys), being maximal for essential Thr (+10.4%) and Val (+8.2%) and non-essential Cys (+15.0%) and Gly (+10.4%). The results highlight the efficacy of PhyG at a dose level of 500 to 1,000 FTU/kg in young broilers for improving the ileal digestibility of nitrogen, AA, and energy alongside P retention and tibia ash. The performance data emphasize the need to consider digestible nutrient intake as a response variable in exogenous enzyme studies.

Microbial phytase is widely used in commercial broiler diets to improve digestion of phosphorus (P) and reduce its excretion into the environment. Phytase improves the digestion of phosphorus and other nutrients including amino acids (AA). This study evaluated the effect of a novel consensus bacterial 6-phytase variant (PhyG) added to a nutrient-reduced diet without any added inorganic P on the digestibility of nutrients including P and AA in the ileum of young broilers. Effects on P retention and bone mineralization were also assessed. Compared to an unsupplemented negative control diet, PhyG improved growth performance, P retention, bone mineralization (tibia ash), digestibility of dry matter, nitrogen, gross energy, and all 17 individual AA during 5 to 15 d post-hatch, in a dose-dependent manner (dose range 0 to 1,000 phytase units [FTU] per kilogram of feed). For some AA, the increases in digestibility with PhyG at 1,000 FTU/kg were substantial (cysteine: +15.0%, threonine:+10.4%), and for all AA were equivalent to the responses produced by a nutritionally adequate positive control (unsupplemented) diet. The results demonstrate the efficacy of PhyG to improve AA digestibility alongside growth performance, P retention, and bone mineralization in young broilers.

Identifying the Clinical and Histological Risk Factors affecting Post-Biopsy Voiding Efficiency: An Observational Closed Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

There is a variability in the reported rate of post-prostate biopsy voiding inefficiency. The burden and potential predictors of this morbidity is not well studied in African patients. This study aimed to evaluate the incidence as well as the clinical and histological factors affecting voiding function in patients undergoing trans-rectal prostate biopsy in an African population.

SUBJECTS, MATERIALS AND METHODS

An observational cohort study was carried out in 68 adult males, 40 years and above, scheduled for trans-rectal prostate biopsy for suspected prostate cancer. Those who could not void spontaneously, had either neurological conditions or were on drugs that could affect voiding, were excluded from the research. Data on demographic characteristics of the patients were collected. Uroflowmetry was done to obtain the peak urine flow rate of the patients at baseline and seven days after the procedure. The prostate volume was determined and the presence of other potential clinical and histological risk factors were recorded. The presence of other bleeding-related biopsy complications was also recorded. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS with a p-value of less than 0.05 reported as significant.

RESULTS

Voiding inefficiency was recorded in 28 (41.2%) of the patients with majority, 21 (75.0%), experiencing a five to nine-point decrease in their seventh day peak flow rate values. Post-biopsy haematuria occurred in 37 (54.4%) of the population. The presence of haematuria with blood clots was associated with a 10.9 times increased risk of voiding inefficiency after the procedure (p = 0.006).

CONCLUSION

About two in five patients developed post-prostate biopsy voiding inefficiency. Blood clot presence was independently. associated with the occurrence of this morbidity.

The influence of the site of drug administration on florfenicol pharmacokinetics in turkeys

Florfenicol is a broad-spectrum antibacterial drug used in the treatment of farm animals, including poultry. This drug is poorly soluble in water, therefore, administration in drinking water may lead to high variability of concentrations in treated individuals. The use of injection preparations, however, requires individual administration and may have a negative effect on the quality of the carcass. In addition, the renal portal system in birds may reduce the bioavailability of the drug administered in the caudofemoral region of the body. The aim of this study was to compare the pharmacokinetics of florfenicol in turkeys after a single intravenous, intramuscular, and subcutaneous administration at a dose of 15 mg/kg body weight. Additionally, to evaluate the effect of renal portal system on drug kinetics, the intramuscular administration was divided into pectoral and caudofemoral administration. The study showed that the area under the concentration-time curve (AUC) was similar regardless of the route of administration. The mean values for clearance and volume of distribution were 0.33 L/kg/h and 0.92 L/kg, respectively. The mean residence time (MRT) was 2.87 h for an intravenous bolus, while for the extravascular administrations it was approx. 5.5 h. The elimination half-life was approx. 4 h regardless of the route of administration. The maximum plasma concentration did not differ statistically between intramuscular (approx. 6.8 mg/L) and subcutaneous (8.2 mg/L) administrations, while the time to appear for this concentration was the longest for caudofemoral administration (1.5 h). The bioavailability was 88.64% for subcutaneous administration, 77.95% for pectoral administration and 85.30% for caudofemoral administration. Overall, all 3 routes of extravascular administration allowed for efficient drug absorption. There was no evidence of an influence of the renal portal system on the kinetic parameters of the drug administered to the lower extremities of the body.

Implementing Patient-Directed Cancer Education Materials Across Nigeria

As access to cancer care expands in low-income countries, developing tools to educate patients is paramount. We took a picture booklet, which was initially developed by the nonprofit Global Oncology for Malawi and Rwanda, and adapted it for use in Nigeria. The primary goal was to assess acceptability and provide education. The secondary goals were (1) to describe the collaboration, (2) to assess knowledge gained from the intervention, (3) to assess patient understanding of their therapy intent, and (4) to explore patient's experiences via qualitative analysis.

In this cross-continent collaboration supported by @StanfordCIGH, low literacy-friendly cancer education booklets developed by @GlobalOnc increased awareness and knowledge about cancer treatment in 4 diverse sites in Nigeria.

Evaluation of the responses of broiler chickens to varying concentrations of phytate phosphorus and phytase. Ⅱ. Grower phase (day 12-23 post hatching)

A randomized complete block design study used 768 male broiler chickens to investigate the effects of phytate P (PP) and a novel consensus bacterial phytase variant (PhyG) concentration on growth performance, bone mineralization, apparent ileal digestibility (AID), and total tract retention (TTR) of nutrients in broiler chickens. Treatments were arranged in a 1 + 3 × 5 factorial with a nutrient-adequate positive control diet (PC) with 2.8 g PP/kg, 3 nutrient-reduced negative control diets (NC: PC minus 88 kcal/kg ME, 0.8 g/kg dig. Lys, 2.0 g/kg available P, 2.0 g/kg Ca and 0.5 g/kg Na) with varying PP (g/kg) levels, mainly from rice bran, at 2.3 (NC1), 2.8 (NC2), or 3.3 (NC3) and 5 PhyG doses at 0, 500, 1,000, 2,000, or 4,000 FTU/kg. All treatments had 6 replicate cages with 8 birds/cage. A commercial starter diet was fed from d 0 to 12 and the experimental diets from d 12 to 23 post hatching. Birds fed the NC2 diet without phytase had lower (P < 0.01) BW, BW gain, and feed intake (FI) as compared with birds fed the PC with the same PP level. With increasing phytate, there was a decrease (P < 0.05) in BW, BW gain, and FI. Phytase increased (P < 0.01) BW and feed efficiency of broiler chickens. An interaction (P < 0.05) between PP and phytase concentrations was observed on the AID of Met, Cys, and Thr. Linear decrease (P < 0.01) in the AID and TTR of P and Ca with increasing PP concentrations were observed. Phytase supplementation increased (P ≤ 0.05) the AID of P, Ca, and all AA. The TTR of P, Ca, and Zn was linearly increased (P < 0.01) by 112, 123, and 46%, respectively, when birds fed NC diets with 0 and 4,000 FTU/kg were compared. In conclusion, phytate reduced the growth performance and nutrient utilization of broiler chickens from d 12 to 23 post hatching while phytase ameliorated these negative effects.

Effect of increasing dose level of a novel consensus bacterial 6-phytase variant on phytate degradation in broilers fed diets containing varied phytate levels

1. The effect of increasing the dose level of a novel consensus bacterial 6-phytase variant on apparent ileal digestibility (AID) of phosphorus (P), phytic acid (inositol hexa-phosphate, IP₆) and ileal IP₆ degradation profile was studied in diets containing varying phytate-P (PP) levels.2. Ross 308, one-day-old males (n=1,800) were allocated to cages (20 birds/cage, six cages/treatment) in a completely randomised design employing a 3 × 5 factorial arrangement (three PP levels: 2.45 (low) 2.95 (medium) and 3.45 g/kg (high); five dose levels of phytase (PhyG): 0, 500, 1,000, 2,000 and 4,000 FTU/kg). Phased diets were based on wheat, corn, soybean meal, rapeseed meal and rice bran (d 0 to 10; 2.60 g/kg digestible P, 7.6 g/kg calcium (Ca); d 11 to 21; 2.10 g/kg digestible P, 6.4 g/kg Ca). Ileal digesta was collected on d 21 for determination of P, IP₆ and IP-esters content. Data were analysed by factorial ANOVA; means separation was achieved using Tukey's HSD test.3. Increasing PP reduced AID of IP₆ and sum of IP_3-6 (%) (P<0.05) but absolute P-release (g/kg diet) above NC was increased (P<0.05) at high vs. low PP. Increasing phytase dose exponentially increased (P<0.001) AID IP_6, sum of IP_3-6 (%) and digestible IP_3-6-P g/kg diet (P<0.001). AID P was increased but there was an interaction with PP level (P<0.001). Ileal accumulation of IP_5-3-P was universally low with PhyG at ≥1,000 FTU/kg (<0.06 g/100g DM). At 2,000 and 4,000 FTU/kg, AID IP₆ was 97.2, 92.7, 92.6% and 100, 97.2, 97.1%, respectively, at low, medium and high PP. At 2,000 FTU/kg, phytate-P release estimated as the increase (above NC) in ileal digestible sum of IP_3-6-P in the diet was 2.26, 2.59 and 3.10 g/kg in low, medium and high PP, respectively.4. The data demonstrated that the novel phytase was effective in breaking down phytate to low IP-esters in diets with varied PP content but the optimal dose level for maximising P-release may differ in diets with varying PP content.

Evaluation of the responses of broiler chickens to varying concentrations of phytate phosphorus and phytase. Ⅰ. Starter phase (day 1-11 post hatching)

Growth performance, tibia ash, apparent ileal digestibility (AID), and total tract retention (TTR) of nutrients responses of broiler chickens fed diets containing varying concentrations of phytate P (PP) and a novel consensus bacterial 6-phytase variant (PhyG) from d 1 to 11 post hatching were evaluated with 1,152 broiler chicks. Diets were a nutrient-adequate positive control diet (PC) with 2.8 g PP/kg or one of 15 nutrient-reduced negative control (NC: PC minus 88 kcal/kg ME, 0.8 g/kg dig. Lys, 2.0 g/kg available P, 1.8 g/kg Ca and 0.5 g/kg Na) diets with 3 PP (g/kg) levels, mainly from rice bran, at 2.3 (NC1), 2.8 (NC2), or 3.3 (NC3) and 5 PhyG supplementation at 0, 500, 1,000, 2,000, or 4,000 FTU/kg in a 1 + 3 × 5 factorial. All treatments had 6 replicate cages with 12 birds per cage. Despite comparable PP levels, birds fed the PC diet had greater (P ≤ 0.01) body weight (BW), feed intake (FI), tibia ash, AID of energy, AA, P, and Ca as compared with birds fed the NC2 without phytase. There was no interaction between PP and phytase for all responses. Increasing PP concentrations linearly decreased (P < 0.01) BW, FI, AID, and TTR of P and Ca. With phytase supplementation, there was a quadratic response (P < 0.05) in BW, FI, tibia ash, and a linear increase (P < 0.05) in the AID of energy, nitrogen, and all the measured AA. Increasing phytase dose from 0 to 4,000 FTU/kg increased (P < 0.01) AID of P and Ca by 88 and 18%, respectively. There was also a quadratic response (P ≤ 0.05) on TTR of P and Ca with increasing phytase dose. In conclusion, increasing levels of PP reduced growth performance and most nutrient utilization responses of broiler chickens while phytase supplementation positively impacted the responses of broiler chickens during d 1 to 11 post hatching.

Effects of the in ovo injection of vitamin D3 and 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 in Ross 708 broilers subsequently challenged with coccidiosis. I. performance, meat yield and intestinal lesion incidence1,2,3

Effects of the in ovo administration of vitamin D₃ (D₃) and 25-hydroxyvitamin D₃ (25OHD₃) on broiler intestinal lesion incidence, performance and breast meat yield after a coccidiosis challenge were investigated. On each of 10 incubator tray levels, 10 Ross 708 broiler hatching eggs were randomly assigned to each of the following 5 in ovo injection treatments administrated at 18 d of incubation (doi): 1) noninjected; 2) diluent; diluent containing either 3) 2.4 μg D₃ (D₃), 4) 2.4 μg 25OHD₃ (25OHD₃), or 5) 2.4 μg D₃ + 2.4 μg 25OHD₃ (D₃+25OHD₃). A 50 μL solution volume was injected into each egg using an Inovoject multi-egg injector. Four male chicks were randomly assigned to each of 80 battery cages in each of 2 rooms. Half of the treatment-replicate cages (8) in each room were challenged with a 20× live coccidial vaccine at 14 d of age (doa). One randomly selected bird from each of 4 treatment-replicate cages was scored for coccidiosis lesions before and 2 wk after challenge. Mean BW, BW gain (BWG), feed intake, and feed conversion ratio were determined for all birds from 0 to 14, 15 to 28, and 29 to 41 doa. Carcass weight, and the absolute and relative (% of carcass weight) weights of carcass parts were determined in 3 birds per treatment-replicate cage at 42 doa. Hatchability of live embryonated injected eggs and hatch residue were not affected by treatment. Across challenge treatment, birds in the 25OHD₃ treatment group experienced an increase in BWG between 29 and 41 doa when compared to the D₃ or diluent-injected birds. Furthermore, pectoralis major muscle percentage tended (P = 0.059) to increase in birds belonging to the 25OHD₃ treatment in comparison to birds in the D₃ or diluent-injected treatments. These results indicate that regardless of challenge treatment, 2.4 μg of 25OHD₃ may increase the BWG and breast meat yield of birds relative to those that only received an injection of commercial diluent.

The Role of User Behaviour in Improving Cyber Security Management

Information security has for long time been a field of study in computer science, software engineering, and information communications technology. The term 'information security' has recently been replaced with the more generic term cybersecurity. The goal of this paper is to show that, in addition to computer science studies, behavioural sciences focused on user behaviour can provide key techniques to help increase cyber security and mitigate the impact of attackers' social engineering and cognitive hacking methods (i.e., spreading false information). Accordingly, in this paper, we identify current research on psychological traits and individual differences among computer system users that explain vulnerabilities to cyber security attacks and crimes. Our review shows that computer system users possess different cognitive capabilities which determine their ability to counter information security threats. We identify gaps in the existing research and provide possible psychological methods to help computer system users comply with security policies and thus increase network and information security.

Does industry funding differ between men and women in electrophysiology and devices research?

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background

A significant gender bias has been identified in cardiology. Industry funding may be important developing electrophysiology (EP) and devices research. Such funding leads to potential conflicts of interest (COI) which must be disclosed on research presentations. There is limited evidence whether the gender bias in cardiology extends to industry funding of research.

Purpose

To assess whether COI disclosures in EP and devices presentations at the ESC Annual Congress differ between men and women.

Methods

Recorded presentations from the Arrhythmia & Devices section of ESC Annual Congresses 2016-2020 were assessed. Presentations were excluded if the original presentation contained no slides, it was a panel discussion, it was a non-scientific presentation, or part of the presentation was missing. Presentations with multiple speakers were also excluded. Chi-squared and Mann-Whitney U tests were used to assess differences between groups for dichotomous and continuous data respectively.

Results

Of 1,153 presentations assessed, 999 were suitable for inclusion. Women made up 22% (n = 221) of presenters. There was no difference in whether COI declaration slides were missing between women (5.9%, n = 13) and men (7.6%, n = 56), p = 0.38. In those with COI disclosure slides (n = 927), women declared significantly lower median number of COIs (0, IQR 0-3) compared with men (2, IQR 0-8), p &lt; 0.0001. In contrast, women spent a greater time-per-word on their COI disclosure slides (250ms, IQR 125-375ms) compared with men (200ms, IQR 118-333ms), p &lt; 0.0001.

Conclusions

Women made up a minority of presenters in EP/devices talks at the ESC annual congress. Women were less likely to have COIs which may suggest that they are less likely to receive industry funding. Despite this, women spent a greater amount of time-per-word on their COI slides. The lower number of declared COIs in women highlights another potential area of gender bias in cardiology that needs further investigation so that it can be addressed.

Effects of the in ovo injection of vitamin D3 and 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 in Ross 708 broilers subsequently fed commercial or calcium and phosphorus-restricted diets. II. Immunity and small intestine morphology1,2,3

Effects of the in ovo injection of vitamin D₃ (D₃) and 25-hydroxyvitamin D₃ (25OHD₃) on the immunity and small intestine morphology of broilers fed calcium and phosphorus-restricted diets were investigated. At 18 d of incubation (doi), live embryonated Ross 708 broiler hatching eggs were in ovo-injected with a 50 μL solution of one of the following treatments using an Inovoject multiegg injector: 1) diluent (control); diluent containing either 2) 2.4 μg D₃; 3) 2.4 μg 25OHD₃; or 4) 2.4 μg D₃ + 2.4 μg 25OHD₃. At hatch, 18 randomly selected male broilers belonging to one of the 4 in ovo injection treatments were placed in each of 12 floor pens and were fed either a commercial diet or a diet restricted by 20% in calcium and available phosphorus (ReCaP) content for the starter, grower and finisher dietary phases. Concentrations of plasma IgG and IgM at 14 d of age (doa) and α-1-acid glycoprotein at 40 doa were determined. Bursa, liver, spleen, duodenum, jejunum, and ileum weights were recorded at 7, 14, and 40 doa and small intestine histology was evaluated at 14 and 40 doa. Blood and organ samples were randomly collected from 1 bird in each of the 6 replicate pens within each of the 8 (4 in ovo x 2 dietary) treatment groups. Plasma IgG levels were higher in 25OHD₃ than in diluent or D₃ in ovo-injected birds. At 14 doa, a higher jejunal villus length (VL) to crypt depth (CD) ratio (RVC) was observed in birds that were in ovo-injected with 25OHD₃ alone as compared to all other in ovo injection treatments. At 40 doa, ileal VL increased and jejunal CD decreased in commercial diet-fed birds compared to ReCaP diet-fed birds. In conclusion, the in ovo injection of 25OHD₃ alone increased the immune response and improved the small intestine morphology and subsequent nutrient uptake of Ross 708 broilers. However, a ReCaP diet was observed to be detrimental to their small intestine morphology.

Effects of the in ovo injection of vitamin D3 and 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 in Ross 708 broilers subsequently fed commercial or calcium and phosphorus-restricted diets. I. Performance, carcass characteristics, and incidence of woody breast myopathy1,2,3

Effects of the in ovo-injection of vitamin D₃ (D₃) and 25-hydroxyvitamin D₃ (25OHD₃) on broiler performance, carcass characteristics, and woody breast myopathy (WBM) incidence were investigated. Live embryonated Ross 708 broiler hatching eggs (2,880) were randomly assigned to one of the following in ovo injection treatments: (1) diluent (50 μL); diluent (50 μL) containing either (2) 2.4 μg D₃; (3) 2.4 μg 25OHD₃; or (4) 2.4 μg D₃ + 2.4 μg 25OHD₃. Eggs were injected at 18 d of incubation (doi) using an Inovoject multiegg injector. At hatch, 18 male chicks were randomly placed in each of 6 replicate pens belonging to each in ovo injection and, dietary treatment combination. Birds were fed either a commercial diet or a diet restricted in calcium and phosphorous (ReCaP) content by 20% for the starter, grower and finisher dietary phases. Broiler performance was determined in each dietary phase and breast muscle yield was also determined at 14 and 40 d of age (doa). At 41 and 46 doa, birds were processed for determination of WBM, carcass weight, and the absolute and relative (% of carcass weight) weights of various carcass parts. Compared to birds fed the commercial diet, birds fed ReCaP diets experienced a reduction in performance from 14 to 40 doa, in breast meat yield at 41 and 46 doa, and in WBM at 41 and 46 doa. At 14 and 40 doa, breast meat yield in birds that received an in ovo injection of 25OHD₃ alone was higher compared to birds that received diluent alone or a combination of D₃ and 25OHD₃. Lower WBM incidence in ReCaP-fed birds was associated with a lower breast weight. An increase in breast meat yield in response to 25OHD₃ alone may be due to improved immunity and small intestine morphology. However, further study is needed to determine the aforementioned effects.

A novel consensus bacterial 6-phytase variant completely replaced inorganic phosphate in broiler diets, maintaining growth performance and bone quality: data from two independent trials

Total replacement of dietary inorganic phosphate (Pi) by a novel consensus bacterial 6-phytase variant (PhyG) in phytate-rich diets (>0.3% phytate-P) was investigated in 2 trials using growth performance and bone quality as outcome measures. Both trials utilized a completely randomized design with 5 dietary treatments across 4 phases: starter (0-10 d), grower (10-21 d), finisher 1 (21-35 d), and finisher 2 (35-42 d). Treatments comprised a nutritionally adequate positive control (PC) diet containing monocalcium phosphate and 4 experimental diets (IPF1, IPF2, IPF3, and IPF4), all containing no added Pi and reduced in Ca by 0.2 to 0.3% units vs. PC. IPF1contained PhyG at 1,000 FTU/kg (all phases); IPF2 contained PhyG at 1,000 FTU/kg (all phases) and was additionally reduced in digestible AA, ME, and sodium (-0.2 to -0.4% points, -74 kcal/kg, -0.04% points, respectively, vs. PC); IPF3 contained PhyG at 3,000 FTU/kg in starter, 2,000 FTU/kg in grower, and 1,000 FTU/kg in finisher phases; and IPF4 contained xylanase (2,000 U/kg) and PhyG (2,000 FTU/kg in starter, 1,500 FTU/kg in grower, and 1,000 FTU/kg in finisher phases) and was additionally reduced in ME (-71 kcal/kg vs. PC). Ross 308 broilers were used (trial 1: n = 1,200 mixed sex; 24 birds per pen × 10 replicates; trial 2: n = 1,300 males; 26 birds × 10 replicates). During all phases in both trials, all IPF treatments maintained or improved BW, ADG, ADFI, FCR and BW-corrected FCRc and bone quality parameters vs. PC. vs. PC, treatment IPF3 increased ADG during starter phase (+10.8%) and reduced overall FCRc (-12 points, P < 0.05) in Trial 1, and increased overall ADG (+4.4%), day 35 and day 42 BW (+3.5%, +4.9%), and reduced overall FCRc (-11 points) in Trial 2 (P < 0.05). IPF4 produced equivalent performance to IPF3 (both trials). These are the first data to demonstrate total replacement of Pi by microbial phytase during an entire growth cycle in broiler diets.

Kidney Transplantation in a Recipient with Positive RT-PCR for SARS-CoV-2

When it is safe to proceed with transplantation after coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection is still unknown. We describe the clinical course and management of immunosuppression in a patient with positive real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in a nasopharyngeal swab at the time of kidney transplantation, and with positive antibodies for SARS-CoV-2. The patient had no complications and was discharged with a functioning graft.

Single-dose pharmacokinetics of BMS-986177/JNJ-70033093 in participants with mild or moderate hepatic impairment compared to healthy participants

Background

According to the scientific evidence accumulated to date (ie, genetic, epidemiological, preclinical, clinical), the modulation of Factor XI (FXI) function may provide a novel mechanism for systemic anticoagulation without increasing the risk of clinically significant bleeding in a variety of conditions predisposing patients to a high risk of thrombotic or bleeding events. BMS-986177/JNJ-70033093 (BMS-177/JNJ-3093) is a small molecule that inhibits the active form of FXI (FXIa) with high affinity and selectivity. Depending on the indication, BMS-177/JNJ-3093 may provide benefit to patients as add-on or potentially replacement therapy to the current standard of care antithrombotic agents. Patients with hepatic impairment may have an increased risk of bleeding when using existing antithrombotic agents and therefore may benefit from drugs with an improved safety profile.

Purpose

To assess the effect of mild or moderate hepatic impairment on the pharmacokinetic (PK) properties of BMS-177/JNJ-3093.

Methods

This was a multicenter, open-label, non-randomized, single-dose study. A single 60-mg oral dose of BMS-177/JNJ-3093 was administered to 9 participants with mild hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh class A), 8 participants with moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh class B), and 9 healthy participants with normal hepatic function. Healthy participants were matched to participants with hepatic impairment in each Child-Pugh class with regard to body weight. To assess the effects of hepatic impairment on BMS-177/JNJ-3093 PK, an analysis of variance was performed on the natural log-transformed Cmax, AUC(INF), and AUC(0-T) with hepatic function group as a fixed effect.

Results

BMS-177/JNJ-3093 was well tolerated when administered as an oral dose of 60 mg in participants with mild or moderate hepatic impairment and healthy participants with normal hepatic function. There were no deaths, serious adverse events (AEs), severe AEs, bleeding AEs, or discontinuations due to an AE reported during the study. The geometric mean ratios (GMRs) (90% CI) comparing mild hepatic impairment to normal hepatic function were 1.180 (0.735, 1.895) and 1.168 (0.725, 1.882) for total BMS-177/JNJ-3093 maximum concentration (Cmax) and area under the curve from time 0 to infinity (AUC(INF)), respectively. The GMRs (90% CI) comparing moderate hepatic impairment to normal hepatic function were 1.140 (0.699, 1.857) and 0.996 (0.609, 1.628) for total BMS-177/JNJ-3093 Cmax and AUC(INF), respectively. Overall, levels of activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) increased in an exposure-related manner following single oral doses of 60 mg BMS-177/JNJ-3093 in all groups.

Conclusion

BMS-177/JNJ-3093 was well tolerated in the normal healthy participants and those with mild or moderate hepatic impairment. The observed changes indicate that a dose adjustment in these populations may not be necessary.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Private company. Main funding source(s): This work was sponsored by Bristol-Myers Squibb and Janssen Research & Development, LLC

Improvement in the performance and inflammatory reaction of Ross 708 broilers in response to the in ovo injection of 25-hydroxyvitamin D3

The effects of the in ovo administration of vitamin D₃ (D₃) and its metabolite, 25-hydroxyvitamin D₃ (25OHD₃)_, on the performance, breast meat yield, and inflammatory responses of broilers fed commercial diets were investigated. Live embryonated Ross 708 broiler hatching eggs were randomly assigned to one of the following 5 in ovo injection treatments at 18 d of incubation: 1) noninjected; 2) diluent; diluent containing 3) 2.4-μg D₃, 4) 2.4-μg 25OHD₃, or 5) 2.4-μg D₃ + 2.4-μg 25OHD₃. A 50-μL solution volume of each prespecified treatment was injected into each egg using an Inovoject multiegg injector. At hatch, 18 male chicks were randomly assigned to each of 30 floor pens. The BW, BW gain, feed intake, and feed conversion ratio of the birds were determined in each dietary phase. At 14, 28, and 39 d of posthatch age (doa), plasma α-1-acid glycoprotein (AGP) levels in 1 bird in each of 6 replicate pens per treatment were determined at 14 and 39 doa. The pectoralis major and minor weights of those same birds were also determined. The remaining birds were processed at 43 doa, and the weights of their processing parts were determined. At 39 doa, the in ovo injection of 25OHD₃ alone decreased plasma AGP concentrations in comparison with the noninjected, diluent, and D₃-alone treatment groups. In addition, birds that received 25OHD₃ alone had a greater BW at 42 doa than birds in the noninjected, diluent, and D₃-alone treatment groups. At 39 and 43 doa, breast meat yield was increased in response to the in ovo injection of 25OHD₃ alone in comparison to all other treatments. These results indicate that the in ovo injection of 2.4 μg of 25OHD₃ resulted in an improvement in the performance and inflammatory responses of broilers. A reduction in the inflammatory response subsequent to the in ovo injection of 2.4 μg of 25OHD₃ may have led to an increase in broiler performance.

Effects of dietary calcium and available phosphorus levels and phytase supplementation on performance, bone mineral density, and serum biochemical bone markers in aged white egg-laying hens

Exogenous phytase supplementation increases P and Ca availability to allow for the dietary reductions without negative consequences on productivity or skeletal health. Effects of a Buttiauxella sp. phytase (BSP) supplemented in available P (avP)-reduced and Ca-reduced diets on performance, BW, eggshell quality, serum biochemical bone markers, and bone densitometry were evaluated in egg-laying hens from 68 to 78 wk of age. One hundred hens were fed 1 of 5 diets (n = 20/treatment), including a positive control (PC) with 0.35% avP and 3.5% Ca, and the PC moderately reduced in avP and Ca levels by 0.187 and 0.159% of the diet (by 53 and 4.5%), respectively, (NC1) or severely reduced by 0.231 and 0.275% of the diet (by 66 and 7.9%), respectively, (NC2). Other diets were the NC1 or NC2 supplemented with BSP at 600 FTU/kg (NC1 + BSP or NC2 + BSP, respectively). Egg production and feed conversion ratio were maintained by NC1 but were 11.9% lower and 12.3% higher, respectively, with the NC2 than the PC, which was alleviated by supplemental BSP. Diet effects on FI and eggshell quality followed a similar pattern. Body weight was 2.9% lower for NC1, and 6.1% for NC2 than the PC; BSP alleviated the decreased BW. Serum pyridinoline (bone resorption marker) was 20 to 27% higher in NC2 hens than in the other groups, with no effects on other bone markers. Total and trabecular space bone mineral density in the proximal metaphysis were 8.4 and 15.2% lower for NC1, respectively, and 12.1 and 26.7% lower for NC2, respectively, than PC. Supplemental BSP completely alleviated the decreased bone densitometry measures in NC1, but only partially in NC2. The NC1 hens maintained performance but had decreased BW and bone quality; phytase supplementation restored productivity, BW, and bone quality. The Ca and avP deficiencies in the NC2 hens relative to other groups were partially alleviated by the 600 FTU/kg BSP.

Effects of source and level of in ovo-injected vitamin D3 on the hatchability and serum 25-hydroxycholecalciferol concentrations of Ross 708 broilers

Effects of the in ovo injection of vitamin D3 (D3) and 25-hydroxycholecalciferol (25OHD3) on broiler embryo serum 25OHD3 concentrations, hatchability, and hatchling somatic characteristics were determined. Eggs from a 35-wk-old commercial Ross 708 broiler breeder flock were set in a single-stage incubator with 11 treatments represented on each of 8 incubator tray levels (blocks). Each treatment group within a flat on each tray level contained 30 eggs. Control treatments were noninjected and diluent injected. Vitamin treatments were commercial diluent containing 0.6 μg D3, 0.6 μg 25OHD3, 0.6 μg D3 + 0.6 μg 25OHD3, 1.2 μg D3, 1.2 μg 25OHD3, 1.2 μg D3 + 1.2 μg 25OHD3, 2.4 μg D3, 2.4 μg 25OHD3, or 2.4 μg D3 + 2.4 μg 25OHD3. At 432 h of incubation (hoi), 50-μL solution volumes were injected. Blood samples were collected at 462 hoi for serum 25OHD3 analysis, and hatchability of injected live embryonated eggs (HI) was determined at 492 and 516 hoi. At 516 hoi, hatchling yolk-free BW and weights of the liver and yolk sac were determined. Percentage of yolk moisture and dry mater was calculated. At 492 and 516 hoi, HI did not differ between treatments. Embryos that received 1.2 μg or more of either vitamin D3 source alone or in combination had higher serum 25OHD3 concentrations than those that were injected with diluent alone or diluent containing 0.6 μg of D3. Hatchlings that received 1.2 or 2.4 μg of 25OHD3 had higher percentage of yolk dry matter or lower percentage of yolk moisture levels than noninjected controls and those that received D3 alone at any level. These results indicate that the in ovo injection of either vitamin D3 source at levels equal to or higher than 1.2 μg resulted in serum 25OHD3 concentrations that were higher than that of noninjected controls. In addition, the in ovo injection of 1.2 μg or higher of either vitamin D3 source did not negatively affect broiler HI or chick quality.

The efficacy of 2 phytases on inositol phosphate degradation in different segments of the gastrointestinal tract, calcium and phosphorus digestibility, and bone quality of broilers

The anti-nutritional effects of dietary inositol phosphates (IP6 through IP3) have been recognized in broiler chickens; however, inositol hexaphosphate (IP6) is more potent than the lower IP esters. The efficacies of 2 commercial phytases, a Buttiauxella sp. phytase (BSP) and a Citrobacter braakii phytase (CBP) at 500 and 1,000 FTU/kg, were studied on IP6-3 concentrations in the crop, proventriculus + gizzard, and distal ileum digesta, and ileal IP6 disappearance in broilers at day 22. Apparent ileal P and Ca digestibility, and bone quality at days 22 and 33 were also measured. Female Ross 308 broilers (n = 1,890; 30 birds × 7 diets × 9 replicates) were fed corn-soy-based crumbled diets. The 7 diets included a primary breeder recommendation-based positive control diet (PC); the PC marginally reduced in available P by 0.146% and Ca by 0.134% of the diet, (NC1) or moderately reduced by 0.174 and 0.159% of the diet, respectively (NC2). Other diets were the NC1 + BSP or CBP at 500 FTU/kg (NC1+500BSP and NC1+500CBP) and the NC2 + BSP or CBP at 1,000 FTU/kg (NC2+1,000BSP and NC2+1,000CBP). Each of the NC1 and NC2 had distal ileum IP6 disappearance similar to that of PC, but each had lower P digestibility and the majority of measured bone quality parameters than the PC. The ileal IP6 levels were decreased by 52.0 and 32.7% for NC1+500BSP and NC1+500CBP, respectively, relative to NC1 and by 73.6 and 50.9% for NC2+1,000BSP and NC2+1,000CBP, respectively, relative to NC2 (P < 0.001), with a similar effect for distal ileum IP6 disappearance. Overall, phytase in the NC diets increased P digestibility, and femur breaking strength and cortical bone mineral density at days 22 and 33. Overall, each of the phytases at each dose degraded IP6-3 across the gastrointestinal tract segments to increase P digestibility and the P and Ca utilization in bone. However, dietary BSP at 1,000 FTU/kg was most effective. Supplemental phytase degrades phytate to decrease the anti-nutritional effects in a dose- and phytase-dependent manner.

Long-term effects of Buttiauxella sp. phytase on performance, eggshell quality, apparent ileal Ca and P digestibility, and bone properties of white egg layers

Adequate dietary Ca and available phosphorus (avP) are essential to long-term egg production and bone health in laying hens. The effects of dietary Ca and avP levels and Buttiauxella sp. phytase (BSP) were studied in Lohmann LSL Lite hens from 30 to 70 wk of age (woa). Hens (n = 456; 4 per cage) were fed either a primary breeder recommendation-based diet (positive control; PC); the PC with avP and Ca levels reduced by 0.146 and 0.134% of the diet, respectively, without (NC) or with 300 FTU/kg BSP (NC+BSP). Egg production, BW, feed intake, FCR, and eggshell quality from 30 to 70 woa, and apparent ileal digestibility of P (AIDP) and Ca (AIDCa), and bone quality at 32, 48, and 70 woa were measured. The avP and Ca levels in the NC diet were not clinically deficient, as most parameters were unaffected by diet. Hen BW from 34 to 70 woa tended to be 2.9% greater (P = 0.076) for PC and NC+BSP compared to NC. Mid-diaphysis cortical bone mineral content (CBMC) tended to be 10% and 9% higher (P = 0.065) in the NC+BSP hens than in NC hens at 48 and 70 woa, respectively. AIDP of NC+BSP was 24% greater (P = 0.034) than of NC at 32 woa and tended to be 18% greater (P = 0.082) than AIDP of PC at 48 woa, and 25% lower than of NC and PC at 70 woa (P = 0.028). AIDCa was 25% lower for NC+BSP than PC at 48 woa only (P = 0.037). The avP and Ca sufficiency in the NC diet limited the opportunity to determine a phytase effect. Although the supplemental BSP tended to increase BW and 48 and 70 woa CBMC, and increased 32 woa AIDP, the efficacy of BSP could not be determined due to the lack of an NC effect on most parameters. Commercial laying hens can maintain health and productivity at lower than recommended levels of dietary Ca and avP; phytase supplementation may allow for even further reductions.

Model-based evaluation of the efficacy and safety of nivolumab once every 4 weeks across multiple tumor types

BACKGROUND

Nivolumab 480 mg every 4 weeks (Q4W) is approved in the European Union, United States, and several other markets across multiple tumor types. Its approval was supported by quantitative efficacy/safety analyses bridging to 3 mg/kg every 2 weeks (Q2W).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The benefit-risk profile of nivolumab 480 mg Q4W relative to 3 mg/kg Q2W was evaluated using population pharmacokinetic modeling and exposure-response (E-R) analyses for safety and efficacy. Pharmacokinetic exposures were predicted for 3203 patients with melanoma, non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), renal cell carcinoma (RCC), squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck, urothelial carcinoma, or classical Hodgkin lymphoma. Quantitative models analyzed E-R to predict 480-mg Q4W safety across all indications and efficacy for melanoma, NSCLC, and RCC. Intratumoral receptor occupancy (RO) was predicted for parameters representing different tumor types.

RESULTS

Time-averaged concentrations for 480 mg Q4W versus 3 mg/kg Q2W were higher during the first 28 days (26.8%) and similar at steady state (5.2%). The maximum concentration (C_max) after the first dose was higher (110.4%), and the trough concentration at day 28 was lower (-22.1%) with 480 mg Q4W versus 3 mg/kg Q2W. The C_max achieved with 480 mg Q4W was lower than the previously established safe dose of 10 mg/kg Q2W. The probability of adverse events for key safety end points was similar for 480 mg Q4W and 3 mg/kg Q2W. The predicted overall survival and objective response rates with 480 mg Q4W were comparable to 3 mg/kg Q2W. The predicted high intratumoral RO provided additional evidence to support 480 mg Q4W across tumor types.

CONCLUSIONS

The benefit-risk profile for nivolumab 480 mg Q4W was predicted to be similar to that of 3 mg/kg Q2W across tumor types while providing a convenient and flexible option for patients and their caregivers.

Assessment of nivolumab exposure and clinical safety of 480 mg every 4 weeks flat-dosing schedule in patients with cancer

Background

A nivolumab monotherapy flat-dosing regimen of 480 mg every 4 weeks (Q4W) has been approved in several markets, including the United States, Canada, and European Union, as an alternative dosing regimen for several indications. Approvals of this Q4W regimen were based on population pharmacokinetic (PK) analyses, established flat exposure–response relationships, and clinical safety. The objective of this study was to compare the PK exposure of 480 mg Q4W with 3 mg/kg every 2 weeks (Q2W) and 240 mg Q2W using modeling and simulation, and to evaluate clinical safety of the Q4W regimen.

Patients and methods

Nivolumab PK exposure for the 480 mg Q4W schedule was simulated for 3817 patients across multiple tumor types and compared with those for the 3 mg/kg Q2W and 240 mg Q2W schedules. The safety profile of the Q4W schedule was assessed by analysis of clinical data from 61 patients who transitioned to nivolumab 480 mg Q4W from 3 mg/kg Q2W during four phase III clinical trials.

Results

Compared with 3 mg/kg Q2W, nivolumab 480 mg Q4W produced similar time-averaged concentration, approximately 16% lower trough concentration, and 45% higher peak concentration at steady state. The peak concentration for 480 mg Q4W was significantly lower than that of 10 mg/kg Q2W, a dose previously shown to have an acceptable tolerability and safety profile. Treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs) that started after transitioning from 3 mg/kg Q2W to 480 mg Q4W were reported in 14.8% of patients, with 1.6% of patients reporting grades 3–4 TRAEs. Pooled safety data for these patients are consistent with those for the 3 mg/kg Q2W schedules, and no new safety signals were identified.

Conclusions

The time-averaged steady-state exposure and safety profile of nivolumab 480 mg Q4W are consistent with that of 3 mg/kg Q2W across multiple tumor types. Nivolumab 480 mg Q4W represents a new dosing schedule option, and in addition to 240 mg Q2W, provides convenience and flexibility for patient care.

Clinical trial numbers

NCT01721772, NCT01668784, NCT01673867, NCT01642004

The complete chloroplast genome of Blepharis ciliaris (Acanthaceae)

Blepharis ciliaris is an important medicinal plant and endemic species in Saudi Arabia. This study reported the complete chloroplast genome of B. ciliaris, the second to be sequence in non cystolith clade of Acanthaceae. The genome is 149, 717 bp in size and consisted of a pair of inverted repeat (25, 331 bp each) separating the two single copy region, the large single copy (LSC) 82, 057 bp and small single copy SSC 16, 998 bp. The plastome has overall GC content of 38.5% and 112 genes comprising of 79 protein coding genes, 30 tRNA genes and 4 rRNA genes. The phylogenetic relationship analysis showed that B. ciliaris is sister to Aphelandra knappiea. The cp genome reported in this study will useful in genetic diversity and evolutionary studies of the species.

Complete Chloroplast Genome Sequence of Justicia flava: Genome Comparative Analysis and Phylogenetic Relationships among Acanthaceae

The complete chloroplast genome of J. flava, an endangered medicinal plant in Saudi Arabia, was sequenced and compared with cp genome of three Acanthaceae species to characterize the cp genome, identify SSRs, and also detect variation among the cp genomes of the sampled Acanthaceae. NOVOPlasty was used to assemble the complete chloroplast genome from the whole genome data. The cp genome of J. flava was 150, 888bp in length with GC content of 38.2%, and has a quadripartite structure; the genome harbors one pair of inverted repeat (IRa and IRb 25, 500bp each) separated by large single copy (LSC, 82, 995 bp) and small single copy (SSC, 16, 893 bp). There are 132 genes in the genome, which includes 80 protein coding genes, 30 tRNA, and 4 rRNA; 113 are unique while the remaining 19 are duplicated in IR regions. The repeat analysis indicates that the genome contained all types of repeats with palindromic occurring more frequently; the analysis also identified total number of 98 simple sequence repeats (SSR) of which majority are mononucleotides A/T and are found in the intergenic spacer. The comparative analysis with other cp genomes sampled indicated that the inverted repeat regions are conserved than the single copy regions and the noncoding regions show high rate of variation than the coding region. All the genomes have ndhF and ycf1 genes in the border junction of IRb and SSC. Sequence divergence analysis of the protein coding genes showed that seven genes (petB, atpF, psaI, rpl32, rpl16, ycf1, and clpP) are under positive selection. The phylogenetic analysis revealed that Justiceae is sister to Ruellieae. This study reported the first cp genome of the largest genus in Acanthaceae and provided resources for studying genetic diversity of J. flava as well as resolving phylogenetic relationships within the core Acanthaceae.

Green and scalable synthesis of 3D porous carbons microstructures as electrode materials for high rate capability supercapacitors

Porous carbon nanostructures have long been studied because of their importance in many natural phenomena and their use in numerous applications. A more recent development is the ability to produce porous carbon materials with tuneable properties for electrochemical applications, which has enabled new research directions towards the production of suitable carbon materials for energy storage applications. Thus, this work explores the activation of carbon from polyaniline (PANI) using a less-corrosive potassium carbonate (K₂CO₃) salt, with different mass ratios of PANI and the activating agent (K₂CO₃ as compared to commonly used KOH). The obtained activated carbon exhibits a specific surface area (SSA) of up to ∼1700 m² g^-1 for a carbon derived PANI : K₂CO₃ ratio of 1 : 6. Moreover, the prepared samples were tested as electrode materials for supercapacitors with the results showing excellent electrical double layer capacitor behavior. Charge storage was still excellent for scan rates of up to 2000 mV s^-1, and a capacitance retention of 70% at a very high specific current of 50 A g^-1 was observed. Furthermore, the fabricated device can deliver an energy density of 25 W h kg^-1 at a specific current of 0.625 A g^-1 and a power density of 260 W kg^-1 in 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium bistrifluorosulfonylimide (EMIM-TFSI) ionic liquid, with excellent rate capability after cycling for 16 000 cycles at 3.0 V with ∼98% efficiency. These results are promising and demonstrate the electrode's potential for energy storage, leading to the conclusion that K₂CO₃ is a very good alternative to corrosive activation agents such as KOH in order to achieve high electrochemical performance.

Effects of in ovo injection of different doses of coccidiosis vaccine and turn-out times on broiler performance,

Inovocox EM1 vaccine (EM1) is hatchery-applied via in ovo injection for the control of coccidiosis in broiler chickens. Effects of 3 in ovo injection treatments (INT) and 2 turn-out times (TOT) on the hatching chick quality variables and 35 d posthatch performance of Ross × Ross 708 broilers were investigated. In a single-stage incubator, 1,440 hatching eggs were randomly distributed among 3 INT groups on each of 8 tray levels. At 19 d of incubation (doi), embryonated eggs were subjected to one of the following INT by in ovo injection: noninjected control; 1 × dose of EM1; 10 × dose of EM1. On 21 doi, hatchability of injected eggs (HI), hatching body weight (HBW), and hatching chick quality variables were determined. Additionally, for the grow-out phase, birds belonging to each INT were randomly subjected to a 7 or 10 d TOT. Twenty chicks were initially placed in each of 48 floor pens (6 INT × TOT combination groups × 8 replications) for growth performance evaluation from 0 to 35 d posthatch. The main effect of INT on hatching chick quality variables, as well as the main and interactive effects of INT and TOT on various grow-out performance variables were determined. Although there was no significant INT effect on HI or HBW, significant INT effects on chick total BW, yolk-free BW, and yolk sac weight were observed. There were significant INT effects on BWG and FCR in the 21- to 28-d posthatch interval, as well as on BWG and FCR in the 0- to 35-d posthatch interval. There was no main effect of TOT or interactive effect of INT and TOT on BW and other performance variables from 0 to 35 d posthatch. There was a significant main effect of INT on relative intestine weight at 28 d posthatch. In conclusion, the injection of EM1 vaccine at a 10 × dose may affect hatching chick quality variables and growth performance up to 35 d posthatch.