bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potential antioxidant and lipid peroxidation inhibition of coffee mixed with lemongrass (Cymbopogon citrates) leaves
Authors: El-Anany Ayman M. , Althwab Sami A. , Ali Rehab F.M. , Ali Rehab F.M. , Mousa Hassan
Published: May 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of the addition of dried lemongrass leaves (DLGL) powder, at different levels, on phenolics content, antioxidant activities, consumer acceptance and the inhibition of lipid peroxidation of roasted coffee (RC).

Design/methodology/approach

DLGL powder was incorporated at the levels of 0%, 2.5%, 5.0%, 7.5% and 10% of RC weight. The total flavonoids (TF), total phenolics (TP) and antioxidant activity measured using a 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical and reducing power assay of RC, DLGL and binary mixture of them determined. The oxidative indices of coffee oil samples during storage were investigated. In addition, the sensory characteristics of RC fortified with different levels of DLGL powder were evaluated.

Findings

The TP content of DLGL powder was 1,100.32 mg/100 g DWb, nearly 1.2 times higher than found in RC beans. The TF content of RC enriched with 2.5%, 5.0%, 7.5% and 10% DLGL were found to be around 1.05, 1.10, 1.15 and 1.20 times higher than that in the control coffee samples. RC supplemented with various levels of DLGL powder showed higher DPPH radical scavenging and reducing power activities. At the end of the storage period (six months), the acid, peroxide, P-Anisidine and total oxidation value values of RC supplemented with 10% DLGL powder were about 1.94, 2.52, 2.60 and 2.59 times as low as in the control sample without any addition of DLGL powder, respectively. RC containing 2.5% and 5.0% DLGL powder had significantly (p < 0.05) the highest sensory scores. Consequently, the addition of DLGL in coffee at up to a 5% ratio may have potential health benefits.

Practical implications

RC containing 2.5% and 5.0% DLGL powder had significantly (p = 0.05) the highest sensory scores.

Originality/value

Consequently, the addition of DLGL in coffee at up to a 5% ratio may have potential health benefits.
Can social network sites facilitate civic engagement? Assessing dynamic relationship between social media and civic activities among young people
Authors: Pang Hua , Qin Kaiyang , Ji Min
Published: May 2021

Purpose

The primary goal of this article is to review the existing studies and offer clarity regarding the association between social media adoption and youth civic engagement.

Design/methodology/approach

This research systematically summarizes and reviews 42 original articles published from 2010 to 2019 with an objective of offering insightful results. Additionally, a theoretical framework was carefully designed by adopting various conceptions from citizen participation and computer-mediated communication research literature.

Findings

The findings demonstrate that social media usage could generally have a positive correlation with civic participation among younger generations. Moreover, the result also highlights that certain functional features of social media uses including using social media for news consumption and expression could significantly predict civic engagement.

Originality/value

Despite the ever-growing importance of social media technologies, investigations on their differential, nonlinear and even inconsistent effects on civic engagement remain theoretically ambiguous and empirically unsubstantiated. The study represents one of the first scholarly attempts to review, summarize and analyze the extant research evidence from the past ten years.
Service quality, customer satisfaction and customer value: holistic determinants of loyalty and word-of-mouth in services
Authors: Marcos Anabela Maria Bello de Figueiredo , Coelho Arnaldo Fernandes de Matos
Published: May 2021

Purpose

The objective of this paper is to understand the relationships between service quality, perceived value and satisfaction because several studies endeavored to model these linkages. It is important to test these relationships with loyalty and word-of-mouth (WOM). Thus, it is important to test these relationships in the insurance sector since the relationship between these variables and WOM has not been studied in insurance.

Design/methodology/approach

This investigation proposes a theoretical model tested using structural equation modeling (SEM). A questionnaire survey was developed to explore the relationships among service quality, perceived value, satisfaction, loyalty and WOM. For this study, 744 valid questionnaires were collected from a sample of Portuguese car insurance holders.

Findings

The results revealed that service quality has a direct relationship with perceived value and satisfaction. In turn, perceived value has a direct relationship with satisfaction. Perceived value and satisfaction influence loyalty and WOM. Finally, loyalty influences WOM.

Originality/value

This investigation examines the mediating role of perceived value and satisfaction in the relationship between service quality (facility and interactive) and loyalty and WOM in the insurance industry. It fills a gap in the literature by exploring the variables that lead to positive WOM in the insurance industry; the authors do not know any study that links these variables with WOM. Also, the relationship between loyalty and WOM has been poorly studied, although it is well known that in services, loyal customers speak well of the companies. Thus, the authors try to fill this gap in the academic literature by analyzing these relationships.
Understanding news coverage of tourism safety: a comparative analysis of visitors and non-visitors
Authors: Liu Xinyi , Li Zhiyong , Zhang Qiqi , Zhang Yue
Published: May 2021

Purpose

This study aims to identify the factors influencing Chinese outbound tourists’ perceptions of safety in Thailand. A media coverage analysis compares the safety perceptions of visitors and non-visitors.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed-methods approach was adopted. Based on a content analysis of 204 news items related to safety incidents in Thailand, this paper divides the factors of safety perception into four dimensions. The quantitative data were gathered by self-administered questionnaires from 370 visitors who have previously visited Thailand and 407 potential visitors yet to visit Thailand.

Findings

The results demonstrated significant differences in the safety perceptions of visitors and non-visitors, indicating non-visitors’ fear of uncertainty and intolerance of the exotic. The study also confirmed social-demographic characteristics influence destination safety perceptions. For non-visitors, safety issues tend to have a negative influence on future visit intention, but those with previous travel experience have less concerns.

Research limitations/implications

The findings provide valuable insights to industry practice. More publicity campaigns within the Chinese media may reduce the spillover effects of crisis events and correct the potentially inaccurate images of disease and terrorism risk. Thai government is suggested to develop the Chinese inbound market, improve the quality of tourism infrastructure and standardisation and efficiency of tourism services.

Originality/value

The media plays a significant role in destination image, tourist decision-making and safety measures imposed by governments. This study identified the factors influencing Chinese outbound tourists’ perceptions of safety in Thailand through an analysis of media coverage. The study provides a better understanding of the differences in safety perceptions between visitors and non-visitors to Thailand. The segmentation of visitors and non-visitors also may help destination managers to cater to differing expectations of safety.
The Unsuccessful Bid of the British Advocate‐General to Remain on the Bench Despite Brexit
Authors: Lashyn Serhii
Published: May 2021

Since the announcement of the referendum result, Brexit has posed a challenge to the EU's institutions, policies and legal order. The Court of Justice of the European Union has not been an exception. This contribution examines former Advocate‐General Eleanor Sharpston's failed bid to reverse her premature removal from the bench due to the UK's formal withdrawal from the Union. This case note argues that Eleanor Sharpston indeed should not have been allowed to stay in office until her term expired, critically engages with the Court's refusal to take the matter within the ambit of its judicial review and reflects on whether these developments meet the standards of judicial independence.
Psychosis, symbol, affectivity 1: etiopathogenesis and treatment through analytical psychology
Authors: Marchese Fulvio , Matranga Marco , Puglisi Rosario , Saputo Epifania , La Barbera Daniele
Published: May 2021

This is the first of two papers concerning our study into an integrated approach to psychotic disorders, conducted at the University of Palermo’s Psychiatry Unit Polyclinic over approximately 15 years. Here we will explore and reflect upon the acute psychotic condition mainly from a theoretical and conceptual perspective, while in the second paper we will explore the clinical perspective. From the point of view of psychopathology, and in the light of C.G. Jung’s conceptualization of analytical psychology, as well as calling on contributions from other authors from the systemic‐relational and post‐psychoanalytic field, we will clarify the ideas developed over these last few years by our team. From a more speculative perspective we will advance new interpretive hypotheses in an attempt to thoroughly understand the nature of the psychotic condition, both on a psychodynamic relational and a neuroscientific level. The paper describes how we revised our understanding of psychosis from a brain disease to a process aimed at the rearrangement of psychic functioning, as anticipated by John Weir Perry nearly 40 years ago.
Jungian socioanalysis, social dreaming and the emerging complexity of Europe1
Authors: Vestergaard Arne , Odde Dorte
Published: May 2021

This paper presents central elements of what we have termed Jungian socioanalysis – an emerging theory combining analytical psychology, complexity theories, sociological theories, socio‐ and psychoanalysis, social dreaming, group analysis and affect theories consisting of five assumptions (see also Odde & Vestergaard 2021). Jungian socioanalysis develops a process approach, as opposed to a systems approach, to sociality. In this paper we focus mostly on one of the five assumptions, namely that Jungian socioanalysis explores social fields ‘from within’ through smaller groups, treating group processes as a vehicle to gain a psychosocial and cultural understanding of larger social entities. We give an example of this approach with a presentation of two local social dreaming experiences in Denmark, focusing on Europe in transition. We show that the most significant outcome doesn't rely on the specific content of the dreams, but rather on the engagement in the social dreaming process itself, resulting in transformative image‐affects. The paper ends with reflections on how these social dreaming experiences inform a Jungian socioanalysis, pointing to enabling intersubjective meetings, or present moments, opening for a deeper understanding from within the group as opposed to a systems approach. The paper is a revised version of a presentation at the 2018 European Congress in Avignon.
A snapshot of coal‐fired power generation in Bangladesh: A demand–supply outlook
Authors: Islam Aminul , Ahmed Mohammad Tofayal , Mondal Md Alam Hossain , Awual Md. Rabiul , Monir Minhaj Uddin , Islam Kamrul
Published: May 2021

Despite the numerous exemplary efforts taking place to develop sustainable systems of power generation globally, coal will remain an essential and significant part of Bangladeshʼs energy generation. The Government of Bangladesh needs to provide a more reliable and transparent power market for citizens to meet Bangladeshʼs rising energy demand. Consequently, various coal‐based mega projects were undertaken by the Bangladesh government to ensure an affordable and reliable power supply. Half of the targeted electricity was designated to be produced from imported coal. Hence, the development strategy or the reformation of policy in the energy sector may contribute to the current shortcomings in policy approach including inadequate energy infrastructure, regulation and co‐ordination issues. This review focuses on the increasing demand for coal, supply issues, socio‐environmental requirements and significant coal import to encourage realistic advancement of the energy sector in Bangladesh. Moreover, forecasting the requirement of coal for mega power projects from 2021 to 2041 was highlighted. The water resource supply for coal‐based power plants and approaches for reducing CO2 and other emissions were also addressed. Finally, initiatives for fulfilling Sustainable Development Goals in the Bangladesh energy sector were also discussed in this review.
A Scanner Smartly
Authors: Mitra Sinjini
Published: May 2021

From face recognition to fingerprint scans, Sinjini Mitra explains how statistical ideas inform the design and implementation of biometric security systems
A Farewell to One of Our Founders: John Haigh (1941–2021)
Authors: Borja Mario Cortina , Tarran Brian
Published: May 2021

Mario Cortina Borja and Brian Tarran pay tribute to a “math genius” and “master of statistics” who helped get Significance up and running
Successful application of ancient DNA extraction and library construction protocols to museum wet collection specimens
Authors: Straube Nicolas , Lyra Mariana L. , Paijmans Johanna L. A. , Preick Michaela , Basler Nikolas , Penner Johannes , Rödel Mark‐Oliver , Westbury Michael V. , Haddad Célio F. B. , Barlow Axel , Hofreiter Michael
Published: May 2021

Millions of scientific specimens are housed in museum collections, a large part of which are fluid preserved. The use of formaldehyde as fixative and subsequent storage in ethanol is especially common in ichthyology and herpetology. This type of preservation damages DNA and reduces the chance of successful retrieval of genetic data. We applied ancient DNA extraction and single stranded library construction protocols to a variety of vertebrate samples obtained from wet collections and of different ages. Our results show that almost all samples tested yielded endogenous DNA. Archival DNA extraction was successful across different tissue types as well as using small amounts of tissue. Conversion of archival DNA fragments into single‐stranded libraries resulted in usable data even for samples with initially undetectable DNA amounts. Subsequent target capture approaches for mitochondrial DNA using homemade baits on a subset of 30 samples resulted in almost complete mitochondrial genome sequences in several instances. Thus, application of ancient DNA methodology makes wet collection specimens, including type material as well as rare, old or extinct species, accessible for genetic and genomic analyses. Our results, accompanied by detailed step‐by‐step protocols, are a large step forward to open the DNA archive of museum wet collections for scientific studies.
Prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Jung Jae Hyun , Lim Ji Hyun , Bang Cho Hee , Seok Hongdeok , Song Gwan Gyu , Choi Sung Jae
Published: May 2021

Objective

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are both chronic inflammatory diseases; the prevalence of COPD in RA patients is known to be high. However, the prevalence of both RA and COPD differs according to sex; the relationship between RA and COPD may also vary according to sex. Therefore, we investigated the prevalence of COPD and its association in patients with RA in Korea by sex.

Methods

We conducted a nationwide cross‐sectional study using data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. A total of 12 417 men and 15 878 women were included. In this study, RA was defined as physician diagnosed or currently under RA treatment. COPD was defined based on spirometry results, chronic symptoms, and smoking history. Multivariable logistic regression models were employed and we calculated the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for COPD prevalence in patients with RA.

Results

The prevalence of COPD was 15.5% in men with RA, 3.5% in women with RA, 7.8% in men without RA, and 2.2% in women without RA. After adjustment for potential confounding variables, including smoking status, RA was significantly associated with COPD in men (OR 2.16, 95% CI 1.06‐4.40), but not in women (OR 1.58, 95% CI 0.81‐3.10).

Conclusions

In Korea, the prevalence of COPD was high in patients with RA of both sexes; RA and COPD was significantly likely to be associated in men, but not in women.
Significant difference in recurrence according to the proportion of high grade patterns in stage IA lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Jeon Hyun Woo , Kim Young‐Du , Sim Sung Bo , Moon Mi Hyoung
Published: May 2021

Background

Patients with early lung cancer are the best candidates for surgical resection. However, those patients with high grade patterns (micropapillary or solid) do not have a good prognosis, even if they have been diagnosed with stage I lung adenocarcinoma. A new modified grading system has been introduced and this study aimed to identify the prognostic role of the new grading system in patients with stage IA lung adenocarcinoma.

Methods

Patients with pathological stage IA lung adenocarcinoma, according to the eighth TNM classification who underwent curative resection, were reviewed. The pathological data of stage IA adenocarcinoma was reviewed 1 (grade 1: lepidic predominant with no or less than 20% of high grade patterns, grade 2: acinar or papillary predominant with no or less than 20% of high grade patterns, grade 3: any tumor with 20% or more of high grade patterns). Prognostic factors were analyzed for disease‐free interval (DFI) and overall survival (OS) using Cox proportional models.

Results

The medical records of 429 patients with stage IA lung adenocarcinoma were reviewed. DFI (p < 0.001) and OS (p < 0.001) were significantly lower in patients diagnosed with grade 3 compared with grade 1 and grade 2. Multivariate analysis showed that smoking (p = 0.013), value of SUVmax (p = 0.005), lymphovascular invasion (p = 0.004) and grade 3 (p = 0.008) were significant prognostic factors for DFI.

Conclusions

The proportion of high grade patterns showed a different prognosis, even if curative resection had been performed for stage IA adenocarcinoma. This new grading system is more simple and useful in the prediction of a prognosis in patients with stage IA lung adenocarcinoma.
Student Reflections on Assurance and Taxation during COVID‐19: A Commentary*
Authors: Bujaki Merridee Lynne , Brouard François
Published: May 2021

In this commentary, we document insights on the impact of COVID‐19 on the practice and practitioners of assurance and taxation from the perspectives of prospective professional accountants in a graduate accounting program leading to the CPA designation. These graduate students in accounting highlight that COVID‐19 poses many challenges for the practice of assurance and tax, in terms of the nature and process of work, affecting a wide range of stakeholders. At the same time, a number of examples of creativity and innovation in overcoming challenges were also identified by the students. The richness of student insights leaves us feeling optimistic that the future of the profession is in good hands.
ASA classification and surgical severity grading used to identify a high‐risk population, a multicenter prospective cohort study in Swedish tertiary hospitals
Authors: Bartha Erzsebet , Ahlstrand Rebecca , Bell Max , Björne Håkan , Brattström Olof , Helleberg Johan , Nilsson Lena , Semenas Egidijus , Kalman Sigridur
Published: May 2021

Background

Identification of surgical populations at high risk for negative outcomes is needed for clinical and research purposes. We hypothesized that combining two classification systems, ASA (American Society of Anesthesiology physical status) and surgical severity, we could identify a high‐risk population before surgery. We aimed to describe postoperative outcomes in a population selected by these two classifications system.

Methods

Data were collected in a Swedish multicentre, time‐interrupted prospective, consecutive cohort study. Eligibility criteria were age ≥18 years, ASA ≥3, elective or emergent, major to Xmajor/complex (Specialist Procedure Codes used in United Kingdom), gastrointestinal, urogenital or orthopaedic procedures. Postoperative morbidity was identified by the Postoperative Morbidity Survey on postoperative days 3 ± 1, 7 ± 1, 10 + 5 and graded for severity by the Clavien‐Dindo system. Mortality was assessed at 30, 180 and 360 days.

Results

Postoperative morbidity was 78/48/47 per cent on postoperative days 3/7/10. Majority of morbidities (67.5 per cent) were graded as >1 by Clavien‐Dindo. Any type of postoperative morbidity graded >1 was associated with increased risk for death up to one year. The mortality was 5.7 per cent (61/1063) at 30 days, 13.3 per cent (142/1063) at 6 months and 19.1 per cent (160/1063) at 12 months.

Conclusion

Severity classification as major to Xmajor/complex and ASA ≥3 could be used to identify a high‐risk surgical population concerning postoperative morbidity and mortality before surgery. Combining the two systems future electronic data extraction is possible of a high‐risk population in tertiary hospitals.
Short implants without bone augmentation vs. long implants with bone augmentation: systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Bitinas Donatas , Bardijevskyt≐ Gail≐
Published: May 2021

Purpose

Anatomical limits such as the location of the lower alveolar nerve, the maxillary sinus in atrophied jaws might extend implant surgery treatment. The purpose of this systematic literature review is to review the literature and determine whether short implants can be an effective alternative to standard‐length implants after bone augmentation.

Materials and methods

A systematic search was performed on PRISMA wizard. Searched for clinical trials 2010–2020 in the Medline database. The keywords chosen are "short versus long implants, augmented bone, clinical trial", and their various variations.

Results

Meta‐analyses of the studies of implant loss after 1, 3 and 5 years showed a statistically insignificant difference between groups. The number of complications after 1 year was statistically significantly higher in the control group. Meta‐analyses with follow‐up periods of 3 and 5 years showed a statistically insignificant difference; Meta‐analyses of studies of marginal bone loss after 1, 3 and 5 years showed a statistically insignificant difference between the groups.

Conclusions

Short dental implants may be a suitable alternative to standard length dental implants after bone augmentation. The risk of their complications is possibly lower because of the lack of need for bone augmentation.
The ex‐ante Effect of Law and Judicial Efficiency on Borrower Discouragement: An International Evidence
Authors: Ullah Khan Safi , Ullah Khan Naimat , Ullah Asad
Published: May 2021

We investigate whether cross‐country differences in the legal system influence demand‐side credit constraints. We explore the notion of discouraged borrowers — firms that choose not to apply for bank credit because they anticipate rejection. Employing survey data from 46 economies, we find that rapid and less costly court proceedings, lower procedural complexity in court processes, and higher recovery rates under bankruptcy lead to the lower likelihood of borrower discouragement. These results are more pronounced in countries with strong creditor protections in relation to company reorganization and liquidation. The results corroborate the supply‐side view that strong creditor rights and their efficient enforceability alleviate banks’ participation constraints in the loan market, thereby encouraging small and medium‐sized enterprises to apply for credit in the first place. We also find that differences in institutional settings, such as higher regulatory quality, better control of corruption, and the rule of law, lead to lower rates of credit self‐rationing in the loan market.
Social motives of university students in seven countries: Measurement development and validation
Authors: Kashima Emiko S. , Plusnin Nicholas , Ochoa Danielle P. , Du Hongfei , Klackl Johannes , Ah Gang Getrude C. , Gan Su Wan , Yaacob Siti Nor , Wu Shin Ling , Qumseya Tamara , Nicolas Gandalf , Fiske Susan T.
Published: May 2021

A new scale to measure core social motives was developed based on the BUC(K)ET framework (Belong, Understand, Control, Esteem, and Trust). The scale was completed by 1,516 university students from seven countries: Australia, the United States, New Zealand, the Philippines, Malaysia, China (Macao), and Austria. Multigroup confirmatory factor analysis supported the scale's full scalar invariance between Australia and the United States and between Australia and Austria. Partial scalar invariance was established for all countries after omitting the Understand motive, suggesting that the remaining four subscales can be used to compare levels of social motives across diverse cultural groups with caution. We further established the scale's construct validity by examining its correlations in the nomological networks involving several individual difference variables. The profile of social motives was remarkably similar across countries and gender groups, although three Asian groups showed higher motives to belong than non‐Asian groups, and women showed generally stronger core social motives than men, especially the Belong motive. Implications and possible directions of research are discussed.
Reparative effect of super active platelet combined with allogeneic bone for large bone defects
Authors: Wang Qinglong , Huang Zhipeng , Huang Xi , Zhang Tao , Wang Wenbo
Published: May 2021

In clinical practice, autologous bone transplantation is usually used to treat large‐scale bone defects. However, autologous bone can cause complications such as secondary injury to patients, the scarcity of autografts. In this study, the study of using super active platelet lysate (sPL) and allogeneic bone to treat the 15 mm long bone defect in right radius of rabbits, and provide an experimental basis for the next step of clinical bone defect treatment. The critical‐size defect of New Zealand white rabbits was made and divided into three groups: autologous bone group, allogeneic bone group, and sPL group. They were euthanized 1, 2, and 3 months after the operation, perform imaging and histological observation on the repair of bone defect area. The results showed that there were varying degrees of new bone in the bone defect. CT data showed that the bone defect repair rate and new bone mass in each group increased month by month (P <.05). Bone tissue (BV) and bone tissue to the total volume (BV/TV, %) in the sPL group > allogeneic bone group, autologous bone group > allogeneic bone group, with statistical significance (P < .05). Compared with the allogeneic bone group, the sPL group can significantly promote the healing of bone defects, enhance the bone density after fracture healing. The repair effect after 3 months was similar to that of the autogenous bone group. The use of allogeneic bone and sPL therapy may become part of a comprehensive strategy for tissue engineering to treat bone defects.
Leisure walks modulate the cognitive and affective representation of the corona pandemic: Employing Cognitive‐Affective Maps within a randomized experimental design
Authors: Reuter Lisa , Fenn Julius , Bilo Tobias Andreas , Schulz Melanie , Weyland Annemarie Lina , Kiesel Andrea , Thomaschke Roland
Published: May 2021

In response to the corona pandemic, many leisure activities have been restricted while walking has been explicitly endorsed by health authorities. We investigated how leisure walking affects individuals' attitudes to the pandemic. We used Cognitive‐Affective Maps (CAMs) to measure individual's cognitive and affective attitudes toward the corona pandemic and related issues. In a controlled randomized experiment, we asked (N = 66) participants to draw a CAM before and after a walk. Participants in a control group drew CAMs before and after any self‐chosen activity at home. We found that walking led to a more negative evaluation of the pandemic itself, likely due to a more intense reflection, while in everyday routines one has already adapted to it. In further qualitative post hoc assessments of the CAMs, we observed that negative concepts other than corona disappeared after walking. We conclude that leisure walks have complex effects on individuals' cognitive and affective conceptualization of the corona pandemic. Hence, the exact mechanisms of these effects need to be examined in future research. Our study has also shown that CAMs are a promising tool for measuring experimental interventions in health psychology.
Multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging of the prostate underestimates tumour volume of small visible lesions
Authors: Sorce Gabriele , Stabile Armando , Lucianò Roberta , Motterle Giovanni , Scuderi Simone , Barletta Francesco , Pellegrino Francesco , Cucchiara Vito , Gandaglia Giorgio , Fossati Nicola , De Cobelli Francesco , Montorsi Francesco , Jeffrey Karnes R. , Guccini Ilaria , Briganti Alberto
Published: May 2021

Objective

To assess the relationship between the volume of the index lesion (IL) measured at multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI; MRIvol) and at radical prostatectomy (RPvol), stratifying it according to Prostate Imaging‐Reporting and Data System (PI‐RADS) score.

Patients and Methods

We identified 332 men with a positive mpMRI (single lesion with PI‐RADS ≥3) who underwent systematic plus targeted biopsy and subsequent RP at two tertiary referral centres between 2013 and 2018. All mpMRIs were reviewed by experienced radiologists using PI‐RADS scores. The study outcome was to assess the relationship between MRIvol (based on planimetry from MRI sequence best showing tumour) and RPvol (based on tumour involved area of each RP pathology slice). To achieve this endpoint, we performed a multivariable linear regression analysis (LRA) to predict RPvol using PI‐RADS, prostate‐specific antigen level, prostate volume, age, digital rectal examination, Gleason score at MRI‐targeted biopsy, biopsy history and time from mpMRI to RP as covariates. Non‐parametric locally estimated scatterplot smoothing (LOESS) function was used to graphically explore the relationship between MRIvol and RPvol, stratifying for PI‐RADS score.

Results

Overall, 24%, 49% and 27% of men had visible PI‐RADS 3, 4 and 5 lesions at mpMRI. The median (interquartile range [IQR]) MRIvol and RPvol were 0.67 (0.29–1.76) mL and 1.39 (0.58–4.23) mL. At LRA, MRIvol was significantly correlated with a RPvol underestimation (slope: 2.4, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.1–46.3). The non‐parametric LOESS analysis showed a non‐linear relationship between MRIvol and RPvol. Significant underestimation was reported across all volumes with the highest differences between MRIvol and RPvol in the low volume range (<2 mL), where RPvol almost doubled MRIvol. A similar effect was observed across all PI‐RADS scores subgroups.

Conclusions

In the present study, mpMRI significantly underestimated the exact volume of the IL, especially for small visible lesions, regardless of PI‐RADS score. This should be considered when planning tailored focal therapy approaches often delivered to men with smaller prostatic lesions.
COVID‐19 school closures and educational achievement gaps in Canada: Lessons from Ontario summer learning research
Authors: Aurini Janice , Davies Scott
Published: May 2021

The 2020 COVID‐19 pandemic closed most Canadian public schools for six consecutive months between March and September. This paper explores possible impacts of that closure on student achievement. Longstanding research suggests that lengthy periods of time out of school generally create losses of literacy and numeracy skills and widen student achievement gaps. New American studies have attributed sizeable learning losses to the COVID‐19 closures. In lieu of comparable Canadian data, this paper extrapolates from summer learning research to estimate likely shortfalls in literacy and numeracy skills. We draw on data from 14 cohorts of Ontario primary‐grade students collected between 2010 and 2015 in which 3,723 attended summer programs and 12,290 served as controls. Across three plausible scenarios, we use meta analyses and OLS and quintile regression models to predict learning losses of 3.5 and 6.5 months among typically‐performing and lower‐performing students respectively, and achievement gaps that grow up to 1.5 years among same grade peers. After qualifying these predictions, we recommend that provincial ministries offer targeted supplementary programs during the summer and synchronous instruction in the event of future school closures.
Triple‐mutated oncolytic herpes virus for treating both fast‐ and slow‐growing tumors
Authors: Fukuhara Hiroshi , Takeshima Yuta , Todo Tomoki
Published: May 2021

Oncolytic virus therapy has emerged as a promising treatment option against cancer. To date, oncolytic viruses have been developed for malignant tumors, but the need for this new therapeutic modality also exists for benign and slow‐growing tumors. G47∆ is an oncolytic herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV‐1) with an enhanced replication capability highly selective to tumor cells due to genetically engineered, triple mutations in the γ34.5, ICP6 and α47 genes. To create a powerful, but safe oncolytic HSV‐1 that replicates efficiently in tumors regardless of growth speed, we used a bacterial artificial chromosome system that allows a desired promoter to regulate the expression of the ICP6 gene in the G47∆ backbone. Restoration of the ICP6 function in a tumor‐specific manner using the hTERT promoter led to a highly capable oncolytic HSV‐1. T‐hTERT was more efficacious in the slow‐growing OS‐RC‐2 and DU145 tumors than the control viruses, while retaining a high efficacy in the fast‐growing U87MG tumors. The safety features are also retained, as T‐hTERT proved safe when inoculated into the brain of HSV‐1 sensitive A/J mice. This new technology should facilitate the use of oncolytic HSV‐1 for all tumors irrespective of growth speed.
Rac1‐mediated sustained β4 integrin level develops reattachment ability of breast cancer cells after anchorage loss
Authors: Mori Kazunori , Higurashi Masato , Ishikawa Fumihiro , Shibanuma Motoko
Published: May 2021

Previously, we reported that non‐apoptotic cell death was induced in non‐malignant mammary epithelial cells (HMECs) upon loss of anchorage during 48 h incubation in suspension. In this study, we examined HMECs in suspension at an earlier time point and found that most of them lost attachment ability to substrata when replated, although >80% were alive. This suggested that HMECs lost reattachment ability (RA) prior to cell death upon detachment. Concomitant with the loss of RA, a decrease in the levels of β1 and β4 integrin was observed. In sharp contrast, breast cancer cells retained integrin levels, reattached to substrata, and formed colonies after exposure to anchorage loss as efficiently as those maintained under adherent conditions. Such RA of cancer cells is essential for the metastatic process, especially for establishing adhesion contact with ECM in the secondary organ after systemic circulation. Further analysis suggested that sustained levels of β4 integrin, which was mediated by Rac1, was critical for RA after anchorage loss and lung metastasis of breast cancer cells. In the cancer cells, persistent Rac1 activity enhanced escape of β4 integrin from lysosomal degradation depending on actin‐related protein 2/3 and TBC1D2, a GTPase‐activating protein of Rab7 GTPase. Notably, simultaneous high expression ofITGB4andRAC1was associated with poor prognosis in patients with breast cancer. Therefore, β4 integrin and Rac1 are attractive therapeutic targets to eliminate RA in cancer cells, thereby preventing the initial step of colonization at the secondary organ during metastasis.
Dupilumab suppresses type 2 inflammatory biomarkers across multiple atopic, allergic diseases
Authors: Hamilton Jennifer D. , Harel Sivan , Swanson Brian N. , Brian William , Chen Zhen , Rice Megan S. , Amin Nikhil , Ardeleanu Marius , Radin Allen , Shumel Brad , Ruddy Marcella , Patel Naimish , Pirozzi Gianluca , Mannent Leda , Graham Neil M. H.
Published: May 2021

Background

Type 2 inflammation is common in numerous atopic/allergic diseases and can be identified by elevated biomarker levels. Dupilumab, a fully human monoclonal antibody, blocks the shared receptor component for interleukin‐4 and interleukin‐13, key and central drivers of type 2 inflammation.

Objective

Assessment of dupilumab effect on type 2 inflammatory biomarkers in atopic dermatitis (AD), asthma, chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) and eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE).

Methods

Data were extracted from three randomized placebo‐controlled trials of dupilumab in AD (NCT02277743, N = 671; NCT02277769, N = 708; NCT02260986, N = 740); and one each in asthma (NCT02414854, N = 1902); CRSwNP (NCT02898454, N = 448); and EoE (NCT02379052, N = 47). Biomarkers assessed were serum thymus and activation‐regulated chemokine (TARC), plasma eotaxin‐3, serum total immunoglobulin E (IgE), serum periostin and blood eosinophil count.

Results

Dupilumab versus placebo significantly suppressed most type 2 inflammatory biomarker levels across all studies/indications where data were assessed. Reductions in serum TARC, plasma eotaxin‐3 and serum periostin occurred rapidly, whereas reductions in serum total IgE were more gradual. Across diseases, at the end of treatment, median percentage change from baseline in TARC levels ranged from −24.8% to −88.6% (placebo +2.6% to −53.6%); −38.2% to −51.5% (placebo +8.3% to −0.16%) in eotaxin‐3; −24.8% to −76.7% (placebo +8.3% to −4.4%) in total IgE; and −13.6% to −41.1% (placebo +10.1% to −6.94%) in periostin levels. Blood eosinophil responses to dupilumab varied by disease, with minimal changes in AD in the SOLO studies (median percentage change from baseline to end of treatment: 0% [95% CI: −15.8, 0]); transient increases followed by decreases to below‐baseline levels in asthma (−14.6% [−20.0, −7.7]) and CRSwNP (−29.4% [−40.0, −16.3]); and significant decreases in EoE (−50.0% [−50.0, −33.3]).

Conclusion and clinical relevance

Dupilumab reduced levels of type 2 biomarkers across clinical studies in patients with AD, asthma, CRSwNP and EoE.
Association between maternal smoking history and congenital anomalies in children: Results from the Japan Environment and Children's Study
Authors: Tsuchida Akiko , Hamazaki Kei , Kigawa Mika , Tanaka Tomomi , Ito Mika , Inadera Hidekuni ,   and the Japan Environment and Children's Study Group
Published: May 2021

We investigated the relationship between maternal smoking history and congenital anomalies in children. Drawing on data from the Japan Environment and Children's Study collected between January 2011 and March 2014, the smoking habits of pregnant women were categorized as “never smoked,” “quit before pregnancy, “quit after pregnancy,” and “full smoking.” Of the 91 626 participants examined, a total of 2199 (2.4%) infants were born with any congenital anomalies. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine the odds ratio for congenital anomalies in each group based on maternal smoking history. No significant difference was seen between the full‐smoking and never smoked groups in the odds ratios for congenital anomalies of the nervous system; the eyes, ears, face, and neck; the cardiovascular system; or the musculoskeletal system. However, in the full‐smoking group, the odds ratios for trisomy (adjusted odds ratio, 2.14; 95% confidence interval, 1.15‐3.97) and any congenital anomalies (adjusted odds ratio, 1.35; 95% confidence interval, 1.09‐1.67) were significantly higher compared with the never smoked group. Our results indicate that continuing to smoke during pregnancy is associated with increased risk of trisomy and any congenital anomalies in the general Japanese population.
Sex differences in echocardiographic predictors of bradycardia detected by implantable loop recorder in patients with syncope and palpitations
Authors: Falsing Mathilde Musoni , Brainin Philip , Andersen Ditte Madsen , Larroudé Charlotte Ellen , Lindhardt Tommi Bo , Ravnkilde Kirstine , Modin Daniel , Karsum Emil Høegholm , Gislason Gunnar , Biering‐Sørensen Tor
Published: May 2021

Objective

Our aim was to investigate whether echocardiography may aid in identifying patients, specifically men, at risk of bradycardia as detected by implantable loop recorders (ILR) in patients evaluated for syncope and palpitations.

Methods

We included ambulatory patients undergoing ILR implantation for syncope (84%), presyncope (9%), and palpitations (8%). Echocardiographic examination was performed prior to implantation (2.9 months [IQR 1.0–6.0 months]). Echocardiograms were analyzed for conventional and speckle tracking parameters. We examined time to first event of bradycardia, defined as (a) heart rate <30 beats/min and (b) ≥4 beats, including sinus arrest, asystole, sinoatrial block, and second‐ and third‐degree atrioventricular nodal block. We applied Cox proportional hazards models.

Results

A total of 285 patients we enrolled, and during a median time of 2.7 years [IQR 1.0, 3.3 years] of continuous heart rhythm monitoring, 84 (29%) had bradycardia detected by ILR. Patients with bradycardia were older (61 ± 19 years vs 55 ± 18 years, P = .01) and more frequently men (62% vs 44%, P = .01). Sex modified the association between echocardiographic parameters and bradycardia (P interaction <0.05 for all), such that left ventricular LV mass index (HR: 1.02 per 1g/m2 increase [1.01‐1.04], P < .001), LV ejection fraction (HR: 1.04 per 1% decrease [1.01‐1.08], P = .02), and global longitudinal strain (HR: 1.09 per 1% decrease [1.01‐1.19], P = .03) were associated with bradycardia in men but not women (P > .05 for all in female). After adjusting for baseline clinical characteristics, medical therapy, and loop indication, the abovementioned parameters remained significantly associated with incident bradycardia in men.

Conclusion

Echocardiographic parameters of LV structure and function may potentially be more useful for predicting bradycardia in men than women, among patients undergoing ILR implantation for syncope, presyncope, and palpations.
Indirect ultrasound evaluation of left ventricular outflow tract diameter implications for heart failure and aortic stenosis severity assessment
Authors: Pestelli Gabriele , Fiorencis Andrea , Pergola Valeria , Luisi Giovanni Andrea , Smarrazzo Vittorio , Trevisan Filippo , Mele Donato
Published: May 2021

Background

Whereas dependency of left ventricular outflow tract diameter (LVOTD) from body surface area (BSA) has been established and a BSA‐based LVOTD formula has been derived, the relationship between LVOTD and aortic root and LV dimensions has never been explored. This may have implications for evaluation of LV output in heart failure (HF) and aortic stenosis (AS) severity.

Methods

A cohort of 540 HF patients who underwent transthoracic echocardiography was divided in a derivation and validation subgroup. In the derivation subgroup (N = 340), independent determinants of LVOTD were analyzed to derive a regression equation, which was used for predicting LVOTD in the validation subgroup (N = 200) and compared with the BSA‐derived formula.

Results

LVOTD determinants in the derivation subgroup were sinuses of Valsalva diameter (SVD, beta = 0.392, P < .001), BSA (beta = 0.229, P < .001), LV end‐diastolic diameter (LVEDD, beta = 0.145, P = .001), and height (beta = 0.125, P = .037). The regression equation for predicting LVOTD with the aforementioned variables (LVOTD = 6.209 + [0.201 × SVD] + [1.802 × BSA] + [0.03 × LVEDD] + [0.025 × Height]) did not differ from (P = .937) and was highly correlated with measured LVOTD (R = 0.739, P < .001) in the validation group. Repeated analysis with LV end‐diastolic volume instead of LVEDD and/or accounting for gender showed similar results, whereas BSA‐derived LVOTD values were different from measured LVOTD (P < .001).

Conclusion

Aortic root and LV dimensions affect LVOTD independently from anthropometric data and are included in a new comprehensive equation for predicting LVOTD. This should improve evaluation of LV output in HF and severity of AS when direct LVOTD measurement is difficult or impossible.
Do fish isotopic niches change in an Amazon floodplain lake over the hydrological regime?
Authors: Azevedo Lucas Silva , Pestana Inácio Abreu , Almeida Marcelo Gomes , Bastos Wanderley Rodrigues , Souza Cristina Maria Magalhães
Published: May 2021

Floodplain lakes are ecosystems characterised by annual flood and dry cycles. Fish ecology is influenced by the flood pulse due to the large influx of allochthonous food resources and diversification of habitats during the flood cycle, while during the dry cycle, fishes tend to be confined in reduced habitat. The aim of this study was to evaluate the seasonal variation in trophic niche width and overlap of four species—Mylossoma duriventre, Prochilodus nigricans, Cichla.pleiozona and Serrasalmus rhombeus—in an Amazonian floodplain lake. Stable isotope analyses were used to estimate trophic niche width and overlap during the flood and dry seasons. We hypothesised broader niche width for all species during the flood cycle and a higher degree of overlap between the two piscivorous fishes during the dry cycle. Isotopic niche width was 72% broader for P. nigricans, 61% for S. rhombeus and 54% for C. pleiozona during the dry cycle, which did not support our hypothesis. Core niche width overlaps were not observed between piscivorous species in either flood or dry cycle. The results indicate that seasonal variation in isotopic niche width is specific to feeding habit. Understanding how fish trophic ecology responds to changes in the hydrological regime during the seasons is crucial for sustainable fishery management in a region where many people rely heavily on fish for nutritional and economic purposes.
Analysing terrorist networks – An entropy‐driven method
Authors: Rödder Wilhelm , Dellnitz Andreas , Litzinger Sebastian
Published: May 2021

Terrorism is a scourge of humanity. Thousands of people were killed by terrorists in the last years. To understand the structure, information flow and leadership in terrorist cells is a must for all societies to prevent future attacks. Network theory can help to model such cells and to identify leading members therein. This contribution uses the graph theoretical approach as a basis and enriches it by an entropy‐driven knowledge processing. After presenting the theoretical concept two terrorist cells, the one of the Bali attack and the one of the 9/11 attack, are analysed. The results are compared to those of other methods. A preview on the application of weighted networks and multi‐nets complements the new findings.