bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling for external stakeholder risk assessment of project portfolios
Authors: Bai Libiao , Kang Shuyun , Zhang Kaimin , Zhang Bingbing , Pan Tong
Published: September 2022

Purpose

External stakeholder risks (ESRs) caused by unfavorable behaviors hinder the success of project portfolios (PPs). However, due to complex project dependency and numerous risk causality in PPs, assessing ESRs is difficult. This research aims to solve this problem by developing an ESR-PP two-layer fuzzy Bayesian network (FBN) model.

Design/methodology/approach

A two-layer FBN model for evaluating ESRs with risk causality and project dependency is proposed. The directed acyclic graph (DAG) of an ESR-PP network is first constructed, and the conditional probability tables (CPTs) of the two-layer network are further presented. Next, based on the fuzzy Bayesian network, key variables and the impact of ESRs are assessed and analyzed by using GeNIe2.3. Finally, a numerical example is used to demonstrate and verify the application of the proposed model.

Findings

The proposed model is a useable and effective approach for ESR assessment while considering risk causality and project dependency in PPs. The impact of ESRs on PP can be calculated to determine whether to control risk, and the most critical and heavily contributing risks and project(s) in the developed model are identified based on this.

Originality/value

This study extends prior research on PP risk in terms of stakeholders. ESRs that have received limited attention in the past are explored from an interaction perspective in the PP domain. A new two-layer FBN model considering risk causality and project dependency is proposed, which can synthesize different dependencies between projects.
Effects of commitment-based governance on the relationship between formal control and PPP projects performance: mediating and moderating
Authors: Li Chunhao , Zhao Yuping , Chen Wei Feng
Published: September 2022

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the dual effects of commitment-based governance on the relationship between formal control and public–private partnership (PPP) project performance. Formal control and relationship governance are two primary forms of inter-organizational governance that affect project performance. However, little is known about the interplay between formal control and commitment and its effect on PPP projects. More specifically, previous studies have failed to distinguish the function routes of relationship governance resulting from different types of formal control (process and outcome control).

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopts a questionnaire survey to empirically investigate the mechanism that commitment-based governance influences the relationship between formal control and PPP performance. After collecting data from public and private sector professionals involved in 101 Chinese PPP projects, the theoretical framework proposed in this paper is verified by the empirical results of the hierarchical multiple regression analysis.

Findings

The results show that process control has an inverted U-shaped effect and outcome control has a significant positive influence on PPP project performance. Furthermore, commitment moderates the effect of formal control on PPP project performance by increasing the relevance of outcome control and mediates the inverted U-shaped relationship between process control and PPP project performance.

Practical implications

Managers should recognize that process control is a double-edged sword and prevent the overuse of process control. Managers should direct their attention toward efforts to improve the commitment, which allows for the effectiveness of outcome control strategies. Additionally, this study new measurement method for relationship governance suggests that managers should be aware of the difference in parties' perceptions of the relationship.

Originality/value

This study allows for a comprehensive understanding of the relationship governance-control nexus from a commitment perspective. The authors bring into light the dual role of commitment-based governance in the relationship between the two types of formal control and PPP project performance. Moreover, the new approach to measure relationship governance offers valuable insight into the measurement of variables about individual's perception.
Mobile game-based learning in cultural heritage education: a bibliometric analysis
Authors: Camuñas-García Daniel , Cáceres-Reche María Pilar , Cambil-Hernández María de la Encarnación
Published: September 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to analyze the state of mobile game-based learning in the field of cultural heritage education.

Design/methodology/approach

A bibliometric methodology based on scientific mapping and an analysis of co-words was used. The scientific production on this field of study indexed in Scopus was analyzed. The analysis included a total of 725 publications.

Findings

The results show that the National Research Council of Italy is the institution with the highest volume of production. Among the journals, the Journal on Computing and Cultural Heritage stands out. In addition, in the analysis of the structural and thematic development of co-words, a low percentage of keyword matching was observed. The research is currently mainly oriented to pedagogical methods, especially game-based learning, gamification and the use of serious games, although these are not the only trends in this field. Research is also focusing on virtual reality, augmented reality, and mixed reality.

Originality/value

This work is an exploratory and novel study that analyzes the publications to date on mobile game-based learning in cultural heritage education. In theoretical terms, this can serve as support so that other researchers interested in this field can access the information highlighted in this work. From a practical perspective, this work will contribute to the promotion of new innovative actions in cultural heritage education to satisfy the demands of a learning group increasingly familiar with games technology.
FE modeling of the effect of conductivity in galvanic corrosion between different types of stainless steel and carbon steel in a structure bolted joint
Authors: Ech Charqy Younes , Radouani Rachid , Essahli Mohamed
Published: September 2022

Purpose

This study presents a numerical modeling by the finite element method of galvanic corrosion between the bolt (cathode) and the end plate (anode). The bolt is made of three types of stainless steel: austenitic (SS304L, SS316L), martensitic (SS410, SS420) and duplex (32,101), and the end plate is made of carbon steel (S235JR).

Design/methodology/approach

Finite element modeling.

Findings

The results obtained show, on the one hand, that this corrosion rate increases as the conductivity increases, on the other hand, the stainless steels having the highest corrosion resistance causes a considerable loss of mass of the end plate and subsequently a decrease in the lifetime of the bolted joint.

Originality/value

The galvanic corrosion of beam to column bolted joint with end plate, used in steel structures, was studied in order to determine the corrosion rate of the end plate and subsequently to predict the total lifetime of the bolted joint.
A study on the changes in the ICT industry after the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Yang Chang-Gyu
Published: September 2022

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to explore the changes in the ICT and global value chains (GVCs) after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

This study compared the difference between Korea’ domestic ICT industries, ICT imports and ICT exports before and after the COVID-19 outbreak by using trade data of ICT products and national economic indicators, and presents growth strategy for the ICT industry in the post-COVID 19 era. For this purpose, this study determined the causalities between Korea's imports/exports of ICT products and composite Indexes before and after COVID-19, and derived implications in the ICT industry environment after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Findings

Analysis results showed the following changes in Korea's ICT industry in the post-COVID-19 world. (1) Non-face-to-face and contact-free technologies related sectors in the ICT industry, such as the semiconductor sector, have grown exponentially; (2) as the USA has grown as the new key player, the causal relationship with China, a key player of the GVC in the pre-COVID-19 era, disappeared; and (3) the GVC of the ICT industry is not a rigid one-way vertical structure, but is changing to a flexible structure influenced by cooperation and competition between countries.

Originality/value

The results indicate that it is essential to constantly develop new ICT sectors that make use of non-face-to-face and contact-free technologies in the post-COVID-19 era, and the main strategies in response to the changed GVC would be taking the initiative by securing source technologies and expanding through cooperation with other GVCs and resource sharing.
Revisiting online academic networks within the COVID-19 pandemic – From the intellectual capital of knowledge networks towards institutional knowledge capitalization
Authors: Vătămănescu Elena-Mădălina , Cegarra-Navarro Juan-Gabriel , Martínez-Martínez Aurora , Dincă Violeta-Mihaela , Dabija Dan-Cristian
Published: September 2022

Purpose

The study sets out to explore the mediating role of intellectual capital (IC) dimensions (i.e. human, structural and relational) between scholars' affiliation to online academic networks and institutional knowledge capitalization. Online academic networks are tackled through the lens of knowledge networks which have been of primary importance for new relevant knowledge acquisition during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire-based survey of 305 academics from 35 different countries was conducted from July to December 2021, employing a partial least squares structural equation modelling technique. The database was initially filtered to ensure the adequacy of the sample, and data were analyzed using the statistics software package SmartPLS 3.0.

Findings

Evidence was brought forward that the proposed conceptual model accounted for 52.5% of the variance in institutional knowledge capitalization, the structural and relational capital availed by knowledge networks exerting strong positive influence on the dependent variable.

Research limitations/implications

The study has both research and managerial implications in that it approaches a topical phenomenon, namely the capitalization of online academic networks in the COVID-19 context, which has dramatically altered the way that research and teaching are conducted worldwide.

Originality/value

The most important contribution of the paper resides in the comprehensive research model advanced which covers individual, organizational and network multifaced layers, starting with the personal and institutional motives to join a specialized network, continuing with the opportunities provided by knowledge networks in terms of intellectual capital harnessing, and ending with its influence on higher education organizations.
The mechanism of knowledge management processes toward knowledge workers operational performance under green technology implementation: an empirical analysis
Authors: Alam Sajjad , Zhang Jianhua , Shehzad Muhammad Usman
Published: September 2022

Purpose

This study aims to examine the relationship between green technology implementation (GTI), knowledge management (KM) process and knowledge workers' operational performance (KWOP). The research postulates that a specific combination of GTI and KM processes can lead to improving KWOP.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample data (304) were taken from those manufacturing firms that are utilizing green technology. The examination was conducted by Smart PLS-SEM and fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA). The Smart PLS 3.29 is used to verify certain variable relationships. Moreover, fsQCA is used to investigate multiple configuration paths to enhance KWOP.

Findings

The study's outcome indicated that GTI positively influences the KM process in manufacturing firms, and the KM process enormously improves KWOP. The fsQCA analysis result explores various integrations (communication, collaboration, supporting role and improved performance) with the KM (acquisition, sharing and utilization) process identified to enhance the performance of KWOP. The current study supports two merging methods to deepen understanding of employee operational performance.

Originality/value

The study methodologically contributes by integrating direct and configuration approaches to develop firms' operational performance. This study contributes to bridging research gaps in the prior literature and advances insight into the association between GTI, KM process and KWOP.
Do state tax changes affect corporate tax aggressiveness? US evidence
Authors: Jin Dawei , Shen Hao , Wang Haizhi , Yin Desheng
Published: September 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to empirically explore whether and to what extent the changes in state corporate income tax rates affect corporate tax aggressiveness.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a differences-in-differences approach with dynamic treatment, the authors investigate the effect of staggered changes in state corporate income tax rates in the USA on corporate tax aggressiveness.

Findings

Firms become more aggressive in avoiding taxes following state tax increases but are insensitive to tax cuts. The effect of state tax increases on tax aggressiveness is weaker for firms with greater debt tax shields and marginal tax rates. Firms are more likely to shift their operations and relocate their headquarters out of states experiencing tax increases.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors' knowledge, this paper is the first to study the relation between state tax policy changes and corporate tax aggressiveness. This paper finds an asymmetrical pattern of corporate tax aggressiveness in response to state tax changes.
Dupilumab‐induced skin‐associated side effects in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis
Authors: Chromy David , Bartosik Tina , Brkic Faris F. , Quint Tamara , Tu Aldine , Eckl‐Dorna Julia , Schneider Sven , Bangert Christine
Published: September 2022

Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis (CRSwNP) is a typical type‐2 inflammation involving T‐helper type‐2 cells and impairing quality of life due to nasal obstruction, discharge and reduced sense of smell. Recently, the anti‐IL4Rα antibody dupilumab was approved for CRSwNP. While dermatologic side effects in patients treated with dupilumab for atopic dermatitis are frequently observed, there is limited knowledge about these effects in patients with CRSwNP. We aimed to investigate frequency and characteristics of dermatologic side effects following initiation of dupilumab treatment in a cohort of Austrian CRSwNP patients. Therefore, CRSwNP patients presenting at the Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery at the Vienna General Hospital were retrospectively evaluated for newly developed skin eruptions while under dupilumab treatment. Incidence was calculated and details on clinical symptoms were collected. One hundred and ninety‐two CRSwNP patients receiving dupilumab treatment were included, comprising a cumulative follow‐up of 89.65 years (median: 5.5, IQR: 5.9). We observed dermatologic side effects in four patients starting at a median time of 15.5 (range 4–23) weeks after dupilumab initiation corresponding to an incidence‐rate of 4.46 (95%‐confidence interval 1.39–11.23) events per 100 patient‐years follow‐up. The majority (75%, 3/4) of affected patients developed psoriasis‐like dermatitis, whereas one individual experienced rosacea‐like folliculitis and alopecia areata. While dupilumab dosing was reduced in 3/4 CRSwNP patients, one patient completely stopped dupilumab therapy. Our study provides the first comprehensive evaluation of both frequency and characteristics of dermatologic side effects caused by dupilumab in CRSwNP patients. All affected patients developed Th1‐inflammatory associated skin disorders – previously observed only in individuals with prior affections of the skin (i.e. atopic dermatitis). Thus, individuals receiving dupilumab for CRSwNP may develop novel symptoms that require interdisciplinary management. Future studies on dupilumab in a real‐world setting will be required to further explore its spectrum of side effects.
Perspectives on rosacea patient characteristics and quality of life using baseline data from a phase 3 clinical study conducted in Japan
Authors: Yamasaki Kenshi , Miyachi Yoshiki
Published: September 2022

There is a lack of contemporary data on rosacea originating in Japan. Using baseline data from a randomized, phase 3 study of 130 Japanese patients with rosacea treated with metronidazole gel (0.75%) or vehicle, the authors evaluated demographic and clinical characteristics, pretreatment quality of life, and exacerbating factors. In line with global data, most patients were women (82.3%; 107/130) and aged between 30 and 50 years (60.7%; 79/130). Patient‐reported quality of life scores indicated that rosacea had an impact similar to that of other debilitating and disfiguring skin conditions (such as psoriasis), particularly in terms of the emotional burden. Anxiety or depression was reported by 30% of patients (39/130), with 6.9% (9/130) reporting moderate levels and 0.8% (1/130) reporting severe levels. The top five exacerbating factors reported to trigger worsening of rosacea were temperature changes, sun exposure, hot weather, seasonal variation, and heavy exercise. In addition, pollen exposure and menstruation were noted as triggers of rosacea symptoms; these are novel findings that require further investigation to fully understand the implications for patients and treatment. Rosacea is likely to be underdiagnosed and undertreated in Japan because of the current lack of consensus guidelines and standardized therapy. The authors anticipate that the results of this analysis will provide much needed information to help improve diagnosis and facilitate the management of rosacea in patients.
Covariations and trade‐offs of phosphorus (P) acquisition strategies in dioecious Populus euphratica as affected by soil water availability
Authors: Xia Zhichao , He Yue , Zhu Zuodong , Korpelainen Helena , Li Chunyang
Published: September 2022

Dioecious species may be particularly vulnerable to climate change because they often exhibit skewed sex ratios that are reinforced by the physiological and biological specialization of each sex to specific microhabitats. Yet, it is unclear how differences in functional traits between female and male plants lead to sex‐specific responses to drought and whether these responses are associated with phosphorus (P) acquisition diverge or converge.

Here, we measured the morphological and physiological traits of roots, and the functional micro‐organisms related to P acquisition in Populus euphratica females and males in the rhizosphere under different water availability.

The specific root length of females was greater than that of males, regardless of soil water availability. Therefore, the P concentration of females was significantly higher than that of males under well‐watered conditions. In contrast, the physiological adjustment to drought showed distinct sexual patterns: males significantly increased the foliar manganese concentration and maintained higher acid phosphatase activities in the rhizosphere. Moreover, the arbuscular mycorrhizal hyphal biomass reduced less in males than in females under water deficiency. Soil water shortage also decreased the α diversity of phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB) and changed the co‐occurrence network in the rhizosphere of females, but it had little effect on males. Consequently, the favourable physiological processes and effective maintenance of functional microbial homoeostasis in the rhizosphere were the reasons that enabled males to reduce P loss in leaves under water deficiency.

Our study indicated that, within P. euphratica populations, covariations and trade‐offs simultaneously occurred among the three groups (root morphology, physiology and functional micro‐organisms) of functional traits evaluated. More generally, the assessment of variations in sex‐specific P acquisition strategies may help to understand the causes of sex ratio bias and how P. euphratica males and females mitigate resource shortage.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
The impacts of tropical agriculture on biodiversity: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Oakley Joseph L. , Bicknell Jake E.
Published: September 2022

Biodiversity underpins all food production and strengthens agricultural resilience to crop failure. However, agricultural expansion is the primary driver of biodiversity loss, particularly in the tropics where crop production is increasing and intensifying rapidly to meet a growing global food demand. It is therefore crucial to ask, how do different crops and crop production systems impact biodiversity?

We first use the FAO database of harvested crop area to explore temporal changes in crop area and intensification across the entire tropical realm. We show that the harvested area of tropical crops has more than doubled since 1961, with ever‐increasing intensification. The harvested area in 2019 was 7.21 million km2, equivalent to 5.5% of global ice‐free land area, or 11.5% of land area in the tropics.

Second, we conducted a meta‐analysis of 194 studies and 1364 pairwise comparisons to assess the impact of tropical agriculture on biodiversity, comparing biodiversity values in food crop sites versus natural reference habitats.

Our meta‐analysis shows that crop type, rotation time and level of shading are important determinants of biodiversity assemblages. Perennial tropical crops that are grown in shaded plantations or agroforests (e.g. banana and coffee) support higher biodiversity, while crops cultivated in unshaded and often homogeneous croplands (e.g. maize, sugarcane and oil palm), and particularly annual crops, have impoverished biodiversity communities.

Policy implications. Our findings highlight the increasing agricultural expansion and intensification over the last 60 years and inform our understanding of how different crops and crop production systems impact biodiversity. Furthermore, they provide insight into the long‐term sustainability of tropical food production and may serve as a warning sign for agricultural systems that rely on the ecosystem services provided by biodiversity.
Testing enemy release of non‐native plants across time and space using herbarium specimens in Norway
Authors: Ivison Katy , Speed James D. M. , Prestø Tommy , Dawson Wayne
Published: September 2022

The enemy release hypothesis predicts that invasive plant success is in part due to the absence of natural enemies in the invaded range. However, few studies have assessed how enemy release may vary over time or space.

Norway has seen a large increase in non‐native plant species over the past few decades. We used historical herbarium records to test whether 10 non‐native plant species in Norway have suffered less from natural enemies (foliar herbivores) at different latitudes and over the past 195 years, compared to closely related (congeneric) native species.

We analysed over 2200 specimens over 26 species. Chewing herbivory was lower at higher latitudes for both non‐native and native species. However, there was no evidence of change over time in overall chewing herbivory for either native or non‐native species on average. Chewing herbivory of native and non‐native species differed within the genera Centaurea, Epilobium and Salix across latitudes, and in the genera Acer, Barbarea, Campanula and Epilobium across time.

Synthesis: Our results suggest that enemy release is unlikely to facilitate these non‐native plants in Norway since herbivory levels are similar between both non‐native and native plant species. Herbivory of these non‐native plants did not change over time, suggesting that they were quickly recognized as food sources by native herbivores. Lower levels of herbivory at higher latitudes suggest that herbivory is unlikely to limit non‐native plants further north and that herbivory is likely to increase at higher latitudes as the climate warms.
Microbial succession in a marine sediment: Inferring interspecific microbial interactions with marine cable bacteria
Authors: Liau Pinky , Kim Carol , Saxton Matthew A. , Malkin Sairah Y.
Published: September 2022

Cable bacteria are long, filamentous, multicellular bacteria that grow in marine sediments and couple sulfide oxidation to oxygen reduction over centimetre‐scale distances via long‐distance electron transport. Cable bacteria can strongly modify biogeochemical cycling and may affect microbial community networks. Here we examine interspecific interactions with marine cable bacteria (Ca. Electrothrix) by monitoring the succession of 16S rRNA amplicons (DNA and RNA) and cell abundance across depth and time, contrasting sediments with and without cable bacteria growth. In the oxic zone, cable bacteria activity was positively associated with abundant predatory bacteria (Bdellovibrionota, Myxococcota, Bradymonadales), indicating putative predation on cathodic cells. At suboxic depths, cable bacteria activity was positively associated with sulfate‐reducing and magnetotactic bacteria, consistent with cable bacteria functioning as ecosystem engineers that modify their local biogeochemical environment, benefitting certain microbes. Cable bacteria activity was negatively associated with chemoautotrophic sulfur‐oxidizing Gammaproteobacteria (Thiogranum, Sedimenticola) at oxic depths, suggesting competition, and positively correlated with these taxa at suboxic depths, suggesting syntrophy and/or facilitation. These observations are consistent with chemoautotrophic sulfur oxidizers benefitting from an oxidizing potential imparted by cable bacteria at suboxic depths, possibly by using cable bacteria as acceptors for electrons or electron equivalents, but by an as yet enigmatic mechanism.
Feminising the ‘Modern’ Sweetness: Gender and Western‐Style Confectionery in Interwar Japan
Authors: Tsay Lillian
Published: September 2022

This article explores how the feminisation of Western‐style confectionery was critical in bridging sweetness with modernity in interwar Japan. By examining three categories of Japanese women – the ‘female worker’, the ‘modern girl’ and the ‘good wife, wise mother’, it argues that the sweetness of Western‐style confectionery was associated with the female body due to women's extensive involvement in the production process and performances in visual advertisements. As these women helped construct the cultural imagination of Western‐style confectionery as a feminised product, their presence also unfolds the key links between Japan's rising consumer culture and the empire's growing power.
Metatranscriptomic shifts suggest shared biodegradation pathways for Corexit 9500 components and crude oil in Arctic seawater
Authors: Gofstein Taylor R. , Leigh Mary Beth
Published: September 2022

While the genes and pathways responsible for petroleum biodegradation in marine environments have received substantial attention, considerably less is known about those active in the biodegradation of the commonly applied chemical dispersant Corexit 9500. Yet, their fate in the Arctic marine environment is an increasingly important unknown. To elucidate the genes and pathways active in the biodegradation of oil and dispersants, we performed metatranscriptomic sequencing on microbial communities in Arctic seawater exposed to oil, Corexit, or both for 0, 5, and 30 days in a mesocosm incubation experiment. While oil and Corexit stimulated significantly different metatranscriptomic profiles overall, both enriched a suite of fatty acid degradation gene transcripts. Based on the gene transcripts observed and the chemical structures of Corexit 9500 surfactant components, we propose a hypothetical pathway for Corexit surfactant biodegradation in which surfactant ester groups are transformed into fatty acids that are then funnelled into the β‐oxidation fatty acid degradation pathway. Several microbial taxa within Oceanospirillales, Pseudomonadales, and Alteromonadales were associated with either oil‐only or Corexit‐only exposure, potentially implicating them in the degradation of these mixtures. Metabolic gene transcripts were associated with diverse gammaproteobacterial lineages, with many genera exhibiting functional redundancy. These findings offer new insight into the potential genes, pathways, and microbial consortia involved in the biodegradation of Corexit 9500 in the Arctic marine environment.
Afghanistan and the way forward: Incorporating indigenous knowledge into policymaking
Authors: Abawe Zulfia , Daud Bilquees , Daudzai Haqmal , Jabarkhail Moheb , Yousaf Farooq
Published: September 2022

In recent history, wars guided by external policies and interests, both regional and global, have been fought in Afghanistan. In the process, human security was ignored and indigenous knowledge and bottom–up approaches to resolving conflicts for sustainable peace were neither required nor mobilised for the benefit of the Afghan people. Because of these factors and since the US invasion of Afghanistan in 2001, not only did the Taliban consolidate their position in many rural parts of the country but also propagated their extreme (and often incorrect) religious narratives to gain wider public support. With the Taliban back in power after the US withdrawal in August 2021, Afghanistan has reverted to the pre‐2001 situation, with policy makers and humanitarian agencies concerned about the socioeconomic gains—especially education and gender rights—made during the two decades of coalition presence in the country. Against this backdrop, swisspeace organised a roundtable discussion on 5 May 2022, in Basel, where Afghan policy experts and scholars spoke on various issues faced by Afghanistan today and presented, in the form of policy recommendations, a way forward for the war‐torn country. The panel highlighted the need to focus on and incorporate indigenous voices and prioritise the interests of the Afghan people and women in policy‐making and establishing sustainable (positive) peace in the country.
Real‐world experience of consolidation durvalumab after concurrent chemoradiotherapy in stage III non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Huang Yiqing , Zhao Joseph J. , Soon Yu Yang , Wong Alvin , Aminkeng Folefac , Ang Yvonne , Asokumaran Yugarajah , Low Jia Li , Lee Matilda , Choo Joan R. E. , Chan Gloria , Kee Adrian , Tay Sen Hee , Goh Boon Cher , Soo Ross A.
Published: September 2022

Background

Durvalumab consolidation is associated with improved survival following concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) in patients with stage III non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Given the heterogeneity of stage III NSCLC patients, in this study we evaluated the efficacy and safety of durvalumab in the real‐world setting.

Method

Unresectable stage III NSCLC patients were retrospectively studied: one cohort received CCRT, another had CCRT‐durvalumab. Primary endpoints were progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS), secondary endpoints were relapse rate and safety. In CCRT‐durvalumab cohort, association between blood markers with survival and pneumonitis risk were analyzed.

Results

A total of 84 patients were enrolled: 45 received CCRT, and 39 received CCRT‐durvalumab.

Median PFS was 17.5 months for CCRT‐durvalumab and 8.9 months for CCRT‐alone (HR 0.47, p = 0.038). Median OS was not‐reached for CCRT‐durvalumab and 22.3 months for CCRT‐alone (HR 0.35, p = 0.024). Both EGFR‐positive and wild‐type (WT) patients had numerically improved PFS with durvalumab consolidation compared to CCRT‐alone, 17.5 versus 10.9 months and 11.8 versus 6.63 months, respectively (interaction p‐value = 0.608). Grade 2+ pneumonitis was detected in 25% of patients in the durvalumab cohort. Most pneumonitis occurred at 3.5 weeks after durvalumab initiation. Baseline neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR) ≥ 3 and ≥5 were associated with shorter PFS with durvalumab. Week 6 platelet‐lymphocyte‐ratio ≥ 180 was associated with a lower risk of pneumonitis.

Conclusion

In this real‐world study, durvalumab consolidation post CCRT was associated with a statistically significant improvement in PFS and OS. Effect of durvalumab on PFS was not modified by EGFR status. Active surveillance for pneumonitis is crucial. Baseline NLR may help to predict the benefit of treatment with durvalumab.
The relationships between use of alcohol, tobacco and coffee in adolescence and mood disorders in adulthood
Authors: Bolstad Ingeborg , Alakokkare Anni‐Emilia , Bramness Jørgen G. , Rognli Eline B. , Levola Jonna , Mustonen Antti , Miettunen Jouko , Niemelä Solja
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Alcohol, tobacco and coffee are commonly used substances and use in adolescence has previously been linked to mood disorders. However, few large prospective studies have investigated adolescent use in relation to mental health outcomes in adulthood. The main aim of this study was to examine the prospective associations between alcohol use, cigarette smoking and coffee consumption at age 16 and subsequent mood disorders up to 33 years of age.

Methods

Data from The Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1986 Study were used and a total of 7660 participants (49.9% male) were included. Associations between alcohol use, cigarette smoking and coffee consumption at age 16 and later diagnoses of major depression and bipolar disorder were examined using multinomial logistic regression analyses.

Results

Mean number of cigarettes/day (OR, 1.23 [95% CI 1.01–1.50]) and mean volume of alcohol consumption (OR, 1.22 [95% CI 1.01–1.47]), but not frequency of excessive drinking, in adolescence were associated with increased risk for subsequent bipolar disorder after adjustment for sex, parental psychiatric disorders, family structure, illicit substance use, and emotional and behavioral problems at age 16. An association between cigarette smoking and major depression attenuated to statistically non‐significant when adjusted for emotional and behavioral problems. No associations were observed between adolescent coffee consumption and subsequent mood disorders.

Conclusions

This is the first study to report an association of adolescent cigarette smoking and subsequent bipolar disorder diagnosis providing grounds for further research and pointing to a place for preventive measures among adolescents.
Resuscitators' opinions on using a respiratory function monitor during neonatal resuscitation
Authors: Kuypers Kristel L. A. M. , van Zanten Henriëtte A. , Heesters Veerle , Kamlin Omar , Springer Laila , Lista Gianluca , Cavigioli Francesco , Vento Maximo , Núñez‐Ramiro Antonio , Kuester Helmut , Horn Sebastian , Weinberg Danielle D. , Foglia Elizabeth E. , Morley Colin J. , Davis Peter G. , te Pas Arjan B.
Published: September 2022

Aim

The aim of this study was to assess the resuscitators' opinions of the usefulness and clinical value of using a respiratory function monitor (RFM) when resuscitating extremely preterm infants with positive pressure ventilation.

Methods

The link to an online survey was sent to 106 resuscitators from six countries who were involved in a multicentre trial that compared the percentage of inflations within a predefined target range with and without the RFM. The resuscitators were asked to assess the usefulness and clinical value of the RFM. The survey was online for 4 months after the trial ended in May 2019.

Results

The survey was completed by 74 (70%) resuscitators of which 99% considered the RFM to be helpful during neonatal resuscitation and 92% indicated that it influenced their decision‐making. The majority (76%) indicated that using the RFM improved their practice and made resuscitation more effective, even when the RFM was not available. Inadequate training was the key issue that limited the effectiveness of the RFM: 45% felt insufficiently trained, and 78% felt more training in using and interpreting the RFM would have been beneficial.

Conclusion

Resuscitators considered the RFM to be helpful to guide neonatal resuscitation, but sufficient training was required to achieve the maximum benefit.
Effectiveness of an educational program for reducing mental illness stigma targeting family medicine trainees in Tunisia: A quasi‐experimental study
Authors: Saguem Bochra Nourhène , Ouanes Sami , Rhouma Amal , Nakhli Jaâfar
Published: September 2022

Reducing stigma among mental health and health professionals has been an ultimate priority in many countries worldwide. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a four‐session educational intervention for reducing stigma of mental illness targeting family medicine trainees in Tunisia. A quasi‐experimental design was adopted with an intervention group (N = 51) and a control group (N = 56). Pre‐intervention data were collected using an online survey. A four‐session seminar series was implemented and organized. Post‐intervention data were collected immediately after the end of the intervention then 2 months thereafter. Instruments included Attribution Questionnaire (AQ‐27), Self‐Determination Scale (SDS), Empowerment Scale (ES), and Recovery Scale (RS). Repeated measures analysis of covariance and multiple analysis of covariance tests were carried out. Results revealed that the intervention had moderate effects on the AQ‐27 score and on six of its stigma factors including factors of the dangerousness model. The intervention improved SDS score, but not ES or RS scores. Positive effects were observed immediately after the intervention and 2 months thereafter. Regular implementation of educational programs in clinical practice would be beneficial. Developing other anti‐stigma methods is needed to address the concepts of recovery and responsibility of patients with mental illness.
Apparent diffusion coefficient by magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography is useful for grading cholecystitis and surgery planning
Authors: Kurata Yoshihiro , Hayano Koichi , Imai Yasuo , Ichinose Masanori , Hirata Atsushi , Mizumachi Ryoya , Hirasawa Soichiro , Yonemoto Shohei , Sasaki Takuma , Kainuma Shunsuke , Takahashi Yumiko , Ohira Gaku , Matsubara Hisahiro
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a standard procedure for treating cholescytitis, but severe inflammation may cause complications. Our previous study showed that the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values could predict difficult surgery. In the present study, relevance of ADC values in grading the severity of cholecystitis was pathologically investigated.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed a total of 50 patients who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy or laparotomic cholecystectomy/choledocholithotomy. The degree of inflammation in the neck of the gall bladder was pathologically graded into three tiers (grade 1, mild; grade 2, moderate; grade 3, severe), and ulceration, lymphoid follicle formation, and wall thickness of the gallbladder neck were recorded. All factors were statistically compared with the measured ADC values.

Results

The ADC value was significantly lower in the severe inflammation group ( grade 3) than in the weak inflammation group (grades 1 and 2) (1.93 ± 0.22 vs 2.38 ± 0.67, respectively; P = .02). Ulceration and wall thickness in the gallbladder neck were significantly correlated with ADC values (P = .04 and .006, respectively), and lymphoid follicle formation was marginally correlated with ADC values (P = .06). The diagnostic utility of the ADC values decreased as the interval between imaging and cholecystectomy increased. [Correction added on 19 October 2022, after first online publication: [On the first sentence of the Results section, (grades 2 and 3) for weak inflammation group has been changed to (grades 1 and 2).]

Conclusion

ADC values were inversely associated with the pathologic intensity of cholecystitis. We recommend that the ADC value be measured before surgery, so that the procedure can be accordingly planned.
Descriptive analysis of horses and ponies attending horse auctions in Victoria from July 2019 to March 2020
Authors: Chapman GR , Wells B , Gilkerson JR , Flash ML
Published: September 2022

Introduction

In recent years there has been public speculation about the breed, destination and number of horses being sold by public auction at livestock saleyards in Australia. Currently, there is little objective information available about the breed and condition of horses sold through this medium. With little publicly available objective data on these horses, the horse industry has been left vulnerable to misinformation. Accurate information regarding the composition and condition of horses attending saleyards is important to identify and address any welfare issues and to inform public debate.

Method

Data were collected on 312 horses and ponies presented for sale through the Pakenham Horse Sales between July 2019 and March 2020. All horses and ponies were inspected at the saleyards and information on breed, age, body condition score (BCS), purchaser and sale price were recorded as the animals were auctioned.

Results

Crossbred horses and ponies were the largest groups presented for sale. Ponies were more likely to be sold to private buyers. Quarter horses and riding ponies were as likely to be sent to slaughter as thoroughbreds and standardbreds. Entire males and females sold for lower prices than geldings. Most horses and ponies (64%) were sold to private buyers. More than three‐quarters (77%) of horses and ponies presented for sale had a BCS greater than or equal to three out of five.

Conclusion

This pilot study challenges perceptions that thoroughbreds are the primary breed to attend public sales or that animals attending the sales are in poor condition.
Evaluation of physiological stress in free‐ranging bears: current knowledge and future directions
Authors: Babic Natarsha L. , Johnstone Christopher P. , Reljić Slaven , Sergiel Agnieszka , Huber Đuro , Reina Richard D.
Published: September 2022

Stress responses, which are mediated by the neurogenic system (NS) and hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis help vertebrates maintain physiological homeostasis. Fight‐or‐flight responses are activated by the NS, which releases norepinephrine/noradrenaline and epinephrine/adrenaline in response to immediate stressors, whilst the HPA axis releases glucocorticoid hormones (e.g. cortisol and corticosterone) to help mitigate allostatic load. There have been many studies on stress responses of captive animals, but they are not truly reflective of typical ranges or the types of stressors encountered by free‐ranging wildlife, such as responses and adaptation to environmental change, which are particularly important from a conservation perspective. As stress can influence the composition of age and sex classes of free‐ranging populations both directly and indirectly, ecological research must be prioritised towards more vulnerable taxa. Generally, large predators tend to be particularly at risk of anthropogenically driven population declines because they exhibit reduced behavioural plasticity required to adapt to changing landscapes and exist in reduced geographic ranges, have small population sizes, low fecundity rates, large spatial requirements and occupy high trophic positions. As a keystone species with a long history of coexistence with humans in highly anthropogenic landscapes, there has been growing concern about how humans influence bear behaviour and physiology,vianumerous short‐ and long‐term stressors. In this review, we synthesise research on the stress response in free‐ranging bear populations and evaluate the effectiveness and limitations of current methodology in measuring stress in bears to identify the most effective metrics for future research. Particularly, we integrate research that utilised haematological variables, cardiac monitors and Global Positioning System (GPS) collars, serum/plasma and faecal glucocorticoid concentrations, hair cortisol levels, and morphological metrics (primarily skulls) to investigate the stress response in ursids in both short‐ and long‐term contexts. We found that in free‐ranging bears, food availability and consumption have the greatest influence on individual stress, with mixed responses to anthropogenic influences. Effects of sex and age on stress are also mixed, likely attributable to inconsistent methods. We recommend that methodology across all stress indicators used in free‐ranging bears should be standardised to improve interpretation of results and that a wider range of species should be incorporated in future studies.
BACH1 promotes clear cell renal cell carcinoma progression by upregulating oxidative stress‐related tumorigenicity
Authors: Takemoto Kenshiro , Kobatake Kohei , Miura Kento , Fukushima Takafumi , Babasaki Takashi , Miyamoto Shunsuke , Sekino Yohei , Kitano Hiroyuki , Goto Keisuke , Ikeda Kenichiro , Hieda Keisuke , Hayashi Tetsutaro , Hinata Nobuyuki , Kaminuma Osamu
Published: September 2022

The carcinogenesis and progression of renal cell carcinoma (RCC), a heterogeneous cancer derived from renal tubular epithelial cells, is closely related to oxidative stress responses (OSRs). Oxidative stress responses participate in various biological processes related to the metabolism and metastatic potential of cancer such as inflammation, epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), and angiogenesis. In this study, we investigated the role of broad complex‐tramtrack‐bric‐a‐brac and cap ‘n’ collar homology 1 (BACH1), a key transcription factor for OSRs, in clear cell RCC (ccRCC) development and prognosis. The poor prognosis and elevation of serum inflammation markers in nephrectomized ccRCC patients were correlated with the intratumor expression of BACH1 accompanied by a downregulation of heme oxygenase‐1. BACH1 contributes to the invasion and migration abilities of RCC cell lines without affecting their proliferation in vitro. In contrast, BACH1 contributes to tumor progression in vivo, in relation to OSRs with the activation of EMT‐related pathways. BACH1 involvement in other OSR‐linked pathways, including inflammatory responses, angiogenesis, and mTOR signaling, was further revealed by RNA sequencing analysis of BACH1‐knockdown cells. In conclusion, the crucial role of BACH1 in the pathogenesis and poor prognosis of ccRCC through the promotion of OSRs is suggested.
Pathology of drug hypersensitivity reactions and mechanisms of immune tolerance
Authors: Thomson Paul , Hammond Sean , Naisbitt Dean J.
Published: September 2022

Immune‐mediated type IV adverse drug reactions are idiosyncratic in nature, generally not related to the primary or secondary pharmacology of the drug. Due to their complex nature and rarity, these iatrogenic reactions are seldom predicted or encountered during preclinical/early clinical development stages, and often precipitate upon exposure to wider populations (i.e. phase III onwards). They confer a burden on the healthcare sector in both a clinical and financial sense presenting a severe impediment to the drug discovery and development process. Research over the past 50 years has improved our understanding of these reactions markedly as both in vitro and in vivo studies have placed the role of the immune system, in particular; drug‐responsive T cells, firmly in the spotlight as the mediators of these reactions. Indeed, the role of different populations of T cells in adverse events and the interaction of drug molecules with HLA proteins expressed on the surface of antigen‐presenting cells is of considerable interest. Herein, this review examines the pathways of immune‐mediated adverse events including the various T cell subtypes implicated and the mechanisms of T cell activation. Additionally, we address the enigma of immunological tolerance and explore the role tolerance plays in determination of susceptibility to such adverse events even in individuals carrying immunogenic liabilities.