bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
P650 A trend to higher adoption of mesalazine suppository use for UC patients in 15 European countries
Authors: Mackenzie-Smith L , Wüthrich H , Laoun R
Published: May 2021

Background

In a previous abstract (ECCO 2014), we showed geographical differences between European countries in the use of 5ASA suppositories. The updated ECCO guidelines published in 2016 reiterated the importance of mesalazine suppositories in patients with ulcerative colitis: A mesalamine 1-g suppository once daily is the preferred initial treatment for mild or moderately active proctitis, mesalamine foam or enemas are an alternative, but suppositories deliver the drug more effectively to the rectum and are better tolerated [Statement 11A]. We wanted to look at the changes in mesalazine suppositories use and compare it to 2012.

Methods

We collected the data of suppositories consumption from April 2019 until March 2020 from IMS, the prevalence of UC in 2019 from the Global Health Data Exchange and the estimation of the population for 15 European countries (Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Germany, Ireland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom) from the Eurostat database. For comparison purposes, we assumed that all the patients could receive a 1000 mg daily dose of mesalazine suppository.

Results

The aggregate sales data from IMS show that 26979 kg of mesalazine suppository were consumed during the full year in 15 European countries. If we exclude Spain from the analysis, 23096 kg were consumed by 14 countries and this is a 1.6-fold increase in comparison to 2012. Assuming a cut-off of 33% of UC patients receiving the maximum daily dose of 1000 mg, 4 countries showed high use of mesalazine suppositories above that cut off: Greece, Ireland, Spain and Portugal. Except for Ireland, those 3 other countries are from Southern Europe.

In addition when we compare the data from 2019 to 2012, we see a clear increase in the use of mesalazine suppository in the 14 countries. All countries showed an increase in suppository use that is above 50% except for Czech Republic, Denmark, France and Sweden. The increase in those countries was less pronounced.

Sweden and Norway had the lowest rate of suppository use compared to the other countries.

Conclusion

Despite all the uncertainty around the UC prevalence and parallel import (due to price difference between the different European countries), there is a clear trend toward a higher use of suppositories in all the European countries. A full analysis of the topical use of mesalazine (suppository, foam and enema) would be interesting to evaluate more accurately the adherence to the ECCO guidelines in clinical practice.
P659 Colonoscopic screening of symptomatic patients suggests an emerging inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in urban and rural south India
Authors: Banerjee R , Pal P , Tevethia H , Ganesh G , Chandayapeta J , Adigopula B , Mudigonda S , Reddy D N
Published: May 2021

Background

Recent studies suggest that IBD is on the rise in the developing world. This is also the region with limited access to healthcare facilities, poor physician and patient awareness of the disease and diagnostic dilemmas with the infectious bacterial diarrheas preventing adequate diagnosis. There is very limited data on the relative prevalence of IBD compared to the infectious diarrhoeas. We screened symptomatic patients to assess the diagnostic profile in the real world settings with free of cost service to people below poverty line and the un-insured.

Methods

The study is being conducted in a large tertiary care centre in Southern India from March 2020 till date. We present the results of an interim analysis. Symptomatic patients with diarrhea, unintentional weight loss, bleeding per rectum, chronic abdominal pain and unexplained anemia were screened with a blood test (Haemogram, liver function, serum protein), abdominal ultrasound and colonoscopy/ileoscopy to ensure an early diagnosis and initiation of treatment. Data including the demographics of the patients, predominant symptoms, rural/urban residence, investigations, biopsy and final diagnosis were entered into an excel spreadsheet and analysed.

Results

6878 patients, 2188 female (32%), median 44 years (1–82 years) were screened between March 2020 to January 2021. Bloody diarrhoea was noted in 1212(18%), chronic non-bloody diarrhoea in 887 (13%), altered bowel habits in 2381 (35%), pain abdomen in 4030 (59%), un-intentional weight loss in 648 (10%) and anemia in188 (3%). IBD was diagnosed in 397 patients (6%) of which 169 (2.5%) were UC and 228 (3.3%) were CD. Infective etiology including intestinal tuberculosis was seen in 577 (8.3%). Colorectal cancer was diagnosed in 251 (3.6%), polyps in 614 (8.9%). Overall, 4921 (71.5%) were urban and 1957 (28.5%) rural.

The proportion of UC (2.3% rural vs 2.5% urban, p=0.65) and CD (3.6% rural and 3.2% urban, p=0.43) were not different in rural and urban groups. There was significantly higher proportion of infectious colitis in the rural subgroup (p=0.01)(Table 1).

Conclusion

This interim analysis indicates a rising IBD in both urban and rural India vis a vis the infectious diarrheas. However, proportion of infectious colitis was significantly higher in the rural subgroup compared to the urban.
Quantifying drifting Fish Aggregating Device use by the world's largest tuna fishery
Authors: Escalle Lauriane , Hare Steven R , Vidal Tiffany , Brownjohn Maurice , Hamer Paul , Pilling Graham
Published: May 2021

Drifting Fish Aggregating Devices (dFADs) are a major fishing mode for tropical tuna purse seine fisheries worldwide. However, the extent of dFAD use remains poorly understood. We present novel approaches for estimating annual dFAD deployments and number of dFADs monitored by individual vessels, using empirical data and robust estimation procedures. We leveraged observer and logbook data, combined with new dFAD tracking data from the Western and Central Pacific Ocean (WCPO) purse seine fishery, the largest tuna fishery in the world, to evaluate trends in dFAD use across the entire WCPO between 2011 and 2019. Average estimates ranged between 20 000 and 40 000 deployments per year, depending on the methodology, with the total number of deployments appearing relatively stable over the last decade. The median number of active buoys monitored per vessel per day ranged from 45 to 75 depending on the year, well below the current management limit of 350. Our results contrast with other oceans, having fewer buoys monitored per vessel, a unique stable trend, but overall number of deployments two times higher than any other ocean. This study provides a basis for improved monitoring and management of dFAD use in the WCPO, with applicability for other regions.
Three-dimensional ATUM-SEM reconstruction and analysis of hepatic endoplasmic reticulum‒organelle interactions
Authors: Jiang Yi , Li Linlin , Chen Xi , Liu Jiazheng , Yuan Jingbin , Xie Qiwei , Han Hua
Published: May 2021

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is a contiguous and complicated membrane network in eukaryotic cells, and membrane contact sites (MCSs) between the ER and other organelles perform vital cellular functions, including lipid homeostasis, metabolite exchange, calcium level regulation, and organelle division. Here, we establish a whole pipeline to reconstruct all ER, mitochondria, lipid droplets, lysosomes, peroxisomes, and nuclei by automated tape-collecting ultramicrotome scanning electron microscopy and deep learning techniques, which generates an unprecedented 3D model for mapping liver samples. Furthermore, the morphology of various organelles and the MCSs between the ER and other organelles are systematically analyzed. We found that the ER presents with predominantly flat cisternae and is knitted tightly all throughout the intracellular space and around other organelles. In addition, the ER has a smaller volume-to-membrane surface area ratio than other organelles, which suggests that the ER could be more suited for functions that require a large membrane surface area. Our data also indicate that ER‒mitochondria contacts are particularly abundant, especially for branched mitochondria. Our study provides 3D reconstructions of various organelles in liver samples together with important fundamental information for biochemical and functional studies in the liver.
MAF Amplification and Adjuvant Clodronate Outcomes in Early-Stage Breast Cancer in NSABP B-34 and Potential Impact on Clinical Practice
Authors: Paterson Alexander H G , Lucas Peter C , Anderson Stewart J , Mamounas Eleftherios P , Brufsky Adam , Baez-Diaz Luis , King Karen M , Lad Thomas , Robidoux André , Finnigan Melanie , Sampayo Miguel , Tercero Juan Carlos , Mairet Joël Jean , Wolff Antonio C , Fehrenbacher Louis , Wolmark Norman , Gomis Roger R
Published: May 2021

Background

The Adjuvant Zoledronic Acid (ZA) study in early breast cancer (AZURE) showed correlation between a nonamplified MAF gene in the primary tumor and benefit from adjuvant ZA. Adverse ZA outcomes occurred in MAF-amplified patients. NSABP B-34 is a validation study.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of MAF gene status in NSABP B-34 was performed. Eligible patients were randomly assigned to standard adjuvant systemic treatment plus 3 years oral clodronate (1600 mg/daily) or placebo. Tumors were tested for MAF gene amplification and analyzed for their relationship to clodronate for disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) in MAF nonamplified patients. All statistical tests were 2-sided .

Results

MAF status was assessed in 2533 available primary tumor samples from 3311 patients. Of these, 37 withdrew consent; in 77 samples, no tumor was found; 536 assays did not meet quality standards, leaving 1883 (77.8%) evaluable for MAF assay by fluorescence in situ hybridization (947 from placebo and 936 from clodronate arms). At 5 years, in MAF nonamplified patients receiving clodronate, DFS improved by 30% (hazard ratio = 0.70, 95% confidence interval = 0.51 to 0.94; P = .02). OS improved at 5 years (hazard ratio = 0.59, 95% confidence interval = 0.37 to 0.93; P = .02) remaining statistically significant for clodronate throughout study follow-up. Conversely, adjuvant clodronate in women with MAF-amplified tumors was not associated with benefit but rather possible harm in some subgroups. Association between MAF status and menopausal status was not seen.

Conclusions

Nonamplified MAF showed statistically significant benefits (DFS and OS) with oral clodronate, supporting validation of the AZURE study.
First use of Braxon® acellular dermal matrix for complex revision aesthetic breast surgery—revision augmentation mastopexy
Authors: Bojanic Christine , Samaras Stavros , Chishimba Mwenya M , Malata Charles M
Published: May 2021

Acellular dermal matrices (ADMs) have ushered in a paradigm shift in prosthetic breast reconstruction; however, there has hitherto been no reported use of Braxon® ADM in aesthetic breast surgery. Here, we describe the case of a 42-year-old woman who presented for revision of her bilateral aesthetic augmentation-mastopexy following multiple revision surgeries. The predominant concerns were persistent pain, implant malposition and a wide intermammary distance. Her predicament was worsened by inability to tolerate monopolar diathermy owing to a spinal stimulator—the least invasive operation was sought and Braxon® ADM met this criterion. The procedure was a success, and she remains symptom-free, with soft breasts and stable implant positions. Braxon® ADM, with its preformed shape, total implant-wrapping design and easy suture fixation, lends itself to easy use in cosmetic breast surgery. Its role in cosmetic breast surgery has yet to be established, but this case marks the beginning of this endeavor.
‘Blue Route’ for combating climate change
Authors: Liu (刘刚) Gang , Qu (曲久辉) Jiuhui , van Loosdrecht Mark
Published: May 2021

Today's urban water system can be transformed, without big modifications, into a natural and revolutionary “Blue Route” for combating climate change and constructing carbon neutral city, which will lead to self-sustainability of the water sector and supply energy and resources to other sectors.
Experiences of using positive airway pressure for treatment of obstructive sleep apnea: a systematic review and thematic synthesis
Authors: Brown Amy , Jones Steven , Perez-Algorta Guillermo
Published: May 2021

Study Objectives

Suboptimal use of positive airway pressure (PAP) to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) continues to be a major challenge to effective treatment. Meanwhile, the individual and societal impacts of untreated OSA make effective treatment a priority. Although extensive research has been conducted into factors that impact PAP use, it is estimated that at least half of users do not use it as prescribed. However, the voice of users is notably minimal in the literature. A systematic review and qualitative metasynthesis of PAP user experience was conducted to contribute to understandings of how PAP is experienced and to inform how usage could be improved.

Methods

PsycINFO, MEDLINE, CINAHL, and EMBASE databases were systematically searched. Primary research findings of adult experiences using PAP that had been inductively analyzed were included. Papers were critically appraised using the CASP qualitative checklist to generate a “hierarchy of evidence.” Thematic synthesis was then conducted to generate analytical themes. Results were presented in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA).

Results

Twenty-five papers reporting on over 398 people’s experiences were analyzed to generate four themes: Journey to PAP, Discomfort from and around PAP, Adapting to and using PAP, and Benefits from PAP. Author reflexivity and vulnerability to bias is acknowledged.

Conclusions

The findings highlight the applicability of a biopsychosocial understanding to PAP use. This metasynthesis gave voice to user experiences, revealing barriers to PAP use at a healthcare service level across the world, and suggests ways services can address these barriers.

PROSPERO registration number: CRD42020157767
A double-blind, double-dummy, randomized controlled, multicenter trial of 99Tc-methylene diphosphonate in patients with moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Fu Qiong , Feng Ping , Sun Ling-Yun , Zuo Xiao-Xia , Zhao Dong-Bao , He Dong-Yi , Wu Hua-Xiang , Zhang Wei , Zhang Wei , Du Fang , Bao Chun-De
Published: May 2021

Background:

Clinical observational studies revealed that 99Tc-methylene diphosphonate (99Tc-MDP) could reduce joint pain and swollenness in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. This multicenter, randomized, double-blind, double-dummy study aimed to evaluate the effects of 99Tc-MDP plus methotrexate (MTX) vs. MTX alone or 99Tc-MDP alone on disease activity and structural damage in MTX-naïve Chinese patients with moderate to severe RA.

Methods:

Eligible patients with moderate to severely active RA were randomized to receive 99Tc-MDP plus MTX (n = 59) vs. MTX (n = 59) alone or 99Tc-MDP (n = 59) alone for 48 weeks from six study sites across four provinces in China. The primary outcomes were the American College of Rheumatology 20% improvement (ACR20) response rates at week 24 and changes in modified total Sharp score at week 48.

Results:

At week 24, the proportion of participants achieving ACR20 was significantly higher in the MTX + 99Tc-MDP combination group (69.5%) than that in the MTX group (50.8%) or 99Tc-MDP group (47.5%) (P = 0.03 for MTX + 99Tc-MDP vs. MTX, and MTX + 99Tc-MDP vs.
99Tc-MDP, respectively). The participants in the MTX + 99Tc-MDP group and the 99Tc-MDP group had significantly less important radiographic progression than the participants in the MTX group over the 48 weeks (MTX + 99Tc-MDP vs. MTX: P = 0.03, 99Tc-MDP vs. MTX: P = 0.03, respectively). There was no significant difference in terms of adverse events (AEs) among the groups. No serious AEs were observed.

Conclusions:

This study demonstrated that the combination of 99Tc-MDP with MTX inhibited structural damage and improved disease activity in RA patients compared with MTX and 99Tc-MDP monotherapies, without increasing the rate of AEs. Additional clinical studies of 99Tc-MDP therapy in patients with RA are warranted.

Trial Registration:

Chictr.org, ChiCTR-IPR-14005684; http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=10088.
No general shift in spring migration phenology by eastern North American birds since 1970
Authors: Desrochers André , Florea Andra , Dumas Pierre-Alexandre
Published: May 2021

We studied the phenology of spring bird migration from eBird and ÉPOQ checklist programs South of 49°N in the province of Quebec, Canada, between 1970 and 2020. 152 species were grouped into Arctic, long-distance, and short-distance migrants. Among those species, 75 significantly changed their migration dates, after accounting for temporal variability in observation effort, species abundance, and latitude. But in contrast to most studies on the subject, we found no general advance in spring migration dates, with 36 species advancing and 39 species delaying their migration. Several early-migrant species associated to open water advanced their spring migration, possibly due to decreasing early-spring ice cover in the Great Lakes and the St-Lawrence river since 1970. Arctic breeders and short-distance migrants advanced their first arrival dates more than long-distance migrants not breeding in the arctic. However, there was no difference among migrant groups when median arrival dates were considered. We conclude that general claims about advances in spring migration dates in eastern North America are misleading due to large taxonomic variation.
Sexual selection for males with beneficial mutations
Authors: Roberts Gilbert , Petrie Marion
Published: May 2021

Sexual selection is the process by which traits providing a mating advantage are favoured. Theoretical treatments of the evolution of sex by sexual selection propose that it operates by reducing the load of deleterious mutations. Here, we postulate instead that sexual selection primarily acts through females preferentially mating with males carrying beneficial mutations. We used simulation and analytical modelling to investigate the evolutionary dynamics of beneficial mutations in the presence of sexual selection. We found that female choice for males with beneficial mutations had a much greater impact on genetic quality than choice for males with low mutational load. We also relaxed the typical assumption of a fixed mutation rate. For deleterious mutations, mutation rate should always be minimized, but when rare beneficial mutations can occur, female choice for males with those rare beneficial mutations could overcome a decline in average fitness and allow an increase in mutation rate. We propose that sexual selection for beneficial mutations could overcome the ‘two-fold cost of sex’ much more readily than choice for males with low mutational load and may therefore be a more powerful explanation for the prevalence of sexual reproduction than the existing theory. If sexual selection results in higher fitness at higher mutation rates and if the variability produced by mutation itself promotes sexual selection, then a feedback loop between these two factors could have had a decisive role in driving adaptation.
A modular molecular framework for quickly estimating the binding affinity of the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 variants for ACE2, in presence of mutations at the spike receptor binding domain
Authors: Tragni Vincenzo , Preziusi Francesca , Laera Luna , Onofrio Angelo , Todisco Simona , Volpicella Mariateresa , De Grassi Anna , Pierri Ciro Leonardo
Published: May 2021

The rapid spread of new SARS-CoV-2 variants needs the development of rapid tools for predicting the affinity of the mutated proteins responsible for the infection, i.e., the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, for the human ACE2 receptor, aiming to understand if a variant can be more efficient in invading host cells. Here we show how our computational pipeline, previously used for studying SARS-CoV-2 spike receptor binding domain (RBD)/ACE2 interactions and pre-/post-fusion conformational changes, can be used for predicting binding affinities of the human ACE2 receptor for the spike protein RBD of the characterized infectious variants of concern/interest B.1.1.7-UK (carrying the mutations N501Y, S494P, E484K at the RBD), P.1-Japan/Brazil (RBD mutations: K417N/T, E484K, N501Y), B.1.351-South Africa (RBD mutations: K417N, E484K, N501Y), B.1.427/B.1.429-California (RBD mutations: L452R), the B.1.141 variant (RBD mutations: N439K), and the recent B.1.617.1-India (RBD mutations: L452R; E484Q) and the B.1.620 (RBD mutations: S477N; E484K). Furthermore, we searched for ACE2 structurally related proteins that might be involved in interactions with the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, in those tissues showing low ACE2 expression, revealing two new proteins, THOP1 and NLN, deserving to be investigated for their possible inclusion in the group of host-cell entry factors responsible for host-cell SARS-CoV-2 invasion and immunity response.
Bi-phasic effect of gelatin in myogenesis and skeletal muscle regeneration
Authors: Liu Xiaoling , Zu Er , Chang Xinyu , Wang Ziqi , Li Xiangru , Yu Qing , Kamei Ken-ichiro , Hayashi Toshihiko , Mizuno Kazunori , Hattori Shunji , Fujisaki Hitomi , Ikejima Takashi , Wang Dan Ohtan
Published: May 2021

Skeletal muscle regeneration requires extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling including an acute and transient breakdown of collagen that produces gelatin. However, the physiological function of such a remodeling process on muscle tissue repair is unclear. Here we elaborate on a bi-phasic effect of gelatin in skeletal muscle regeneration, mediated by hormetic effects of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Low-dose gelatin stimulates ROS production from NADPH oxidase 2 (NOX2) and simultaneously upregulates antioxidant system for cellular defense, reminiscent of the adaptive compensatory process during mild stress. This response triggers the release of myokine IL-6 which stimulates myogenesis and facilitates muscle regeneration. By contrast, high-dose gelatin stimulates ROS overproduction from NOX2 and mitochondrial chain complex, and ROS accumulation by suppressing antioxidant system, triggering release of TNFα, which inhibits myogenesis and regeneration. Our findings reveal gelatin-ROS-IL-6/TNFα signaling cascades underlying a hormetic response of myogenic cells to gelatin.
Single molecule tracking the uncoupling of assembly and membrane insertion in Perfringolysin O
Authors: Senior Michael J T , Monico Carina , Weatherill Eve E , Gilbert Robert J , Heuck Alejandro P , Wallace Mark I
Published: May 2021

We exploit single-molecule tracking and optical single channel recording in droplet interface bilayers to resolve the assembly pathway and pore-formation of the archetypical cholesterol-dependent cytolysin nanopore, Perfringolysin O. We follow the stoichiometry and diffusion of Perfringolysin O complexes during assembly with 60 millisecond temporal resolution and 20 nanometre spatial precision. Our results suggest individual nascent complexes can insert into the lipid membrane where they continue active assembly. Overall, these data support a model of stepwise irreversible assembly dominated by monomer addition, but with infrequent assembly from larger partial complexes.
Rigorous estimation of post-translational proteasomal splicing in the immunopeptidome
Authors: Cygan Kamil J. , Khaledian Ehdieh , Blumenberg Lili , Salzler Robert R. , Shah Darshit , Olson William , Macdonald Lynn E. , Murphy Andrew J. , Dhanik Ankur
Published: May 2021

Recently, de novo peptide sequencing has made it possible to gain new insights into the human immunopeptidome without relying on peptide databases, while identifying peptides of unknown origin. Many recent studies have attributed post-translational proteasomal splicing as the origin of those peptides. Here, we describe a peptide source assignment workflow to rigorously assign the source of de novo sequenced peptides and find that the estimated extent of post-translational splicing in the immunopeptidome is much lower than previously reported. Our approach demonstrates that many peptides that were thought to be post-translationally spliced are likely linear peptides, and many peptides that were thought to be trans-spliced could be cis-spliced. We believe our approach furthers the understanding of post-translationally spliced peptides and thus improves the characterization of immunopeptidome which plays a critical role in the immune response to antigens in cancer, autoimmune disease, and infections.
The fragmentary production of knowledge on cultural heritage on the Arab world: From an orientalist vision to a scarce engagement with epistemological and theoretical spheres
Authors: Daher Rami Farouk
Published: May 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to attempt to provide a critical assessment of the trajectory and nature of the production of knowledge on cultural heritage on the Arab world. This evaluation of the discipline or field of cultural heritage will focus on both a historic evolution and on current practices in order to understand the nature and politics of that evolution.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach and research methodology adopted for this paper depends primarily on a long-term critical literature review and content analysis that took place over the past 25 years concerning key reports, journal articles, books and other publications on cultural heritage on the Arab world.

Findings

The paper's main findings centers on presenting current practices/production on cultural heritage which are divided into two categories in terms of production of knowledge: an abundant engagement with a technical sphere dominated with concern for documentation and conservation technology of cultural heritage; and a scarce engagement with epistemological and theoretical spheres that delves into processes of cultural heritage definition, consumption and continuity in the Arab world.

Originality/value

The paper attempts to engage in and commence a much-needed wider discussion on the historical transformation concerning knowledge production on cultural heritage in the Arab world and its related practices and processes. The paper emphasizes the significance of this engagement with theoretical spheres of conservation and calls for an expansion of such engagement in order to elevate the discourse and debate on cultural heritage in the Arab world.
The socio-demographic determinants of workplace loneliness in India
Authors: Firoz Mantasha , Chaudhary Richa , Lata Madhu
Published: May 2021

Purpose

This study was conducted with two main objectives: (1) to examine the prevalence of workplace loneliness in the Indian manufacturing and service sectors (2) to examine the influence of socio-demographic characteristics (age, gender, marital status, nature of the organization, tenure, number of friends at the workplace, and position in the organizational hierarchy) on the feeling of loneliness in the workplace.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 934 employees working in manufacturing and service sectors across India. Regression analysis was used for hypotheses testing.

Findings

Findings indicated below average level of loneliness in Indian workplace. Significant differences were found in workplace loneliness with respect to age, marital status and number of friends at the workplace. In contrast, gender, nature of organization, position and tenure had no effect on the feeling of workplace loneliness.

Originality/value

This study advances the limited literature on workplace loneliness by identifying its prevalence and socio-demographic determinants in Indian business organizations. It would help HR practitioners in comprehending and dealing with the emerging challenges associated with workplace loneliness.
Do mistakes acceptance foster innovation? Polish and US cross-country study of tacit knowledge sharing in IT
Authors: Kucharska Wioleta
Published: May 2021

Purpose

This study aims to understand and compare how the mechanism of innovative processes in the information technology (IT) industry – the most innovative industry worldwide – is shaped in Poland and the USA in terms of tacit knowledge awareness and sharing driven by a culture of knowledge and learning, composed of a learning climate and mistake acceptance.

Design/methodology/approach

Study samples were drawn from the IT industry in Poland (n = 350) and the USA (n = 370) and analyzed using the structural equation modeling method.

Findings

True learning derives from mistake acceptance. As a result of a risk-taking attitude and critical thinking, the IT industry in the USA is consistently innovation-oriented. Specifically, external innovations are highly correlated with internal innovations. Moreover, a knowledge culture supports a learning culture via a learning climate. A learning climate is an important facilitator for learning from mistakes.

Originality/value

This study revealed that a high level of mistake acceptance stimulates a risk-taking attitude that offers a high level of tacit knowledge awareness as a result of critical thinking, but critical thinking without readiness to take a risk is useless for tacit knowledge capturing.
The concept of “spatial knowledge” used by top-management-teams and CEOs in internationalization
Authors: Powell K. Skylar , Lim Eunah
Published: May 2021

Purpose

Top-management-teams (TMTs) and chief executive officers (CEOs) dealing with internationalization are naturally predisposed to deal with space, so they will consult “spatial knowledge.” The purpose of this paper is to offer a conceptual description of spatial knowledge used by TMTs/CEOs and to describe how the use of spatial knowledge can be triggered and the resulting biases that arise from it. The description of spatial knowledge is also discussed in relation to core international business (IB) theories/models.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a conceptual study.

Findings

TMTs/CEOs use spatial knowledge for internationalization decisions. This spatial knowledge is “declarative” because it involves knowledge of places and associated characteristics or attributes, “configurational” because it involves knowledge of various types of relative positions and proximities between places and “procedural” because it involves knowledge of how to structure transactions, operate or organize interdependencies between locations. Additionally, TMTs/CEOs individually have spatial knowledge that is uniquely distorted. Then, finally, when TMTs/CEOs consult spatial knowledge to identify international opportunities or solutions, their search process may entail distance and directional biases as a result of their spatial knowledge.

Originality/value

This is the first paper to introduce the notion of “spatial knowledge” to the research on TMT/CEO experiences and internationalization and IB research in general.
Efficacy of a moisturizer for pruritus accompanied by xerosis in patients undergoing dialysis: A multicenter, open‐label, randomized verification study
Authors: Yoshida Yukie , Hirama Akio , Hashimoto Kazumasa , Sato Takeshi , Yokota Noritsugu , Saeki Hidehisa , Kishida Momoyo , Nakamura Hiroshi , Kanakubo Akira , Tsuruoka Shuichi
Published: May 2021

Xerosis and pruritus are common in patients undergoing dialysis. These symptoms are treated with moisturizers, but limited evidence supports the efficacy of such treatment. Our exploratory study suggested the effectiveness of a heparinoid‐containing product for xerosis in dialysis patients. We conducted a multicenter, open‐label, randomized, before‐after, parallel‐group comparative study to verify the exploratory study results (Clinical Trial Registry: UMIN000029360). Seventy‐one Japanese patients undergoing dialysis with chronic kidney disease and xerosis were randomly assigned to receive a heparinoid‐containing product for 2 weeks (group A [n = 36]) or 8 weeks (group B [n = 35]). Patients were instructed to apply the study product based on the fingertip unit method. The efficacy endpoints were the water content of the stratum corneum (WCSC), skin dryness score, pruritus visual analog scale score, and Dermatology Life Quality Index. Safety was assessed by monitoring adverse events. The mean WCSC (arbitrary units) was 26.0 ± 9.6 in group A and 25.2 ± 10.0 in group B at the start of treatment (week 0), significantly increased to 39.0±12.5 in group A and 38.5 ± 11.0 in group B (P < 0.0001 for both vs week 0) by week 2, and then decreased only in group A. Thus, the WCSC at week 4 (the primary endpoint) remained significantly higher in group B (36.4 ± 12.2 vs 28.8 ± 10.4; P = 0.0068). Other endpoints improved during treatment with the study product. One patient developed a rash and erythema as treatment‐related adverse events. In conclusion, 8 weeks’ application of a heparinoid‐containing product was effective for xerosis in patients undergoing dialysis.
“Homeless” Deities and Refugee Devotees: Hindu Temples, Sri Lankan Tamil Diaspora, and Politics in the United Kingdom
Authors: Maunaguru Sidharthan
Published: May 2021

This article explores the role played by Hindu temples in Sri Lankan Tamils’ lives in the diaspora in the United Kingdom. It investigates why those temples became not only places for religious worship but also hubs for the expression of Tamil nationalistic political views, while temples in Sri Lanka managed to keep those politics at bay. Departing from studies on religious belonging in the diaspora, I argue for the specificity of the Sri Lankan experience as mingled with the suffering of war and Tamil nationalistic politics, thus suggesting that historical and political processes are key to understand ways of belonging. I use the lens of the capacity of the sovereign deities to unravel the various ways employed by deities to cater to their devotees’ needs. I explore how Hindu deities and refugee devotees in London, while accommodating nationalistic politics, try to establish their own power and claim a form of belonging in the new country. I argue that in the process, both the new sovereign deities and Tamil migrants/refugees not only need each other but also need the deities from home across time and space. [politics, religion, sovereign deity, belonging, diaspora]
Association of the Geriatric 8 with treatment intensity and prognosis in older patients with diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Lee Shin , Fujita Kei , Morishita Tetsuji , Oiwa Kana , Tsukasaki Hikaru , Negoro Eiju , Hara Takeshi , Tsurumi Hisashi , Ueda Takanori , Yamauchi Takahiro
Published: May 2021

Because of the heterogeneity among older patients with diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL), the establishment of an easy‐to‐use geriatric assessment tool is an unmet need. We verified the impact of the Geriatric 8 (G8) on treatment stratification and overall survival (OS). We conducted a retrospective, multicentre analysis of older patients (≥65 years) with DLBCL. The primary endpoint was OS. The total average relative dose intensity (tARDI) was defined as the average delivered dose intensity divided by the planned dose intensity through all cycles. A total of 451 patients were diagnosed with DLBCL from 2007 to 2017, and 388 patients received standard regimens. A multivariate Cox model confirmed that the G8 was a significant predictor of OS (hazard ratio 0·88, 95% confidence interval 0·828–0·935). A Cox model with restricted cubic spline showed a linear association between the G8 and the mortality risk. The G8 had a significant impact on OS in elderly patients with DLBCL. The upper limit of tARDI for standard regimens to improve OS might be appropriate at ≥80% for patients with high G8 scores and 60% for patients with low G8 scores. However, the standard regimens should be given to all patients regardless of the G8 score to improve OS.
Cyanogenic potential of randomly sampled fresh and processed cassava on retail sale in Singapore
Authors: O'Brien Gerard M. , Lim Boon Jin , Ong Yi Lin , Toh Kian Han , Sim Cong Shan , Koh Rose
Published: May 2021

A random sample of fresh cassava roots and cassava products, purchased at various retail outlets in Singapore during 2016–2017, had total cyanogenic potential (CNp–expressed as mean ± standard deviation, mg kg−1 HCN, fresh weight basis) as follows: fresh roots (n = 66) from three SE Asian countries, 59.0 ± 19.2; peeled chilled root pieces from Malaysia (20 × 1‐kg packs), 38.5 ± 16.5; cassava flour from Indonesia (8 × 1‐kg packs), 11.7 ± 8.2; dried Indonesian chips for home frying (5 × 250 g packs), 61.6 ± 16.5; one pack (120 g) of Malaysian ready‐to‐eat (RTE) chips, 17.1 ± 3.2. CNp in all flour and RTE chips was below 20 mg kg−1. The majority of fresh roots (59.1%) and packs of dried chips (80%), and 15% of packs of peeled chilled root parenchyma, exceeded the Codex Alimentarius limit (50 mg kg−1) for ‘sweet’ (boil‐and‐eat) cassava.
Micronised‐roasted coffee from unripe fruits improves bioactive compounds and fibre contents in rice extruded breakfast cereals
Authors: Sampaio Ulliana Marques , Pereira Ana Paula Aparecida , Campelo Pedro Henrique , Pastore Gláucia Maria , Chang Yoon Kil , Clerici Maria Teresa Pedrosa Silva
Published: May 2021

Unripe green coffee is one of the by‐products from coffee processing that does not have many applications in higher value‐added food products. This study aimed to evaluate the chemical, technological, and sensory properties of rice‐based breakfast cereal made with micronised‐roasted coffee (MRC) from green coffee fruits. The products were elaborated with different MRC concentrations (2, 5 and 9%) and manufactured in a single screw extruder. Data were analysed by analysis of variance and Tukey's test (p < 0.05). The increase in MRC concentration improved the contents of caffeine, chlorogenic and caffeic acids in the breakfast cereals, and reduced the luminosity and expansion index due to the presence of brown colour and fibres from coffee beans. The cereal made with 5% of MRC was more accepted by consumers. Thus, MRC has proven to be a potential source of bioactive compounds, fibres and natural brownish colour for breakfast cereals.
Distinct responses of human peripheral blood cells to different misfolded protein oligomers
Authors: Leal‐Lasarte Magdalena , Mannini Benedetta , Chiti Fabrizio , Vendruscolo Michele , Dobson Christopher M. , Roodveldt Cintia , Pozo David
Published: May 2021

Increasing evidence indicates that peripheral immune cells play a prominent role in neurodegeneration connected to protein misfolding, which are associated with formation of aberrant aggregates, including soluble protein misfolded oligomers. The precise links, however, between the physicochemical features of diverse oligomers and their effects on the immune system, particularly on adaptive immunity, remain currently unexplored, due partly to the transient and heterogeneous nature of the oligomers themselves. To overcome these limitations, we took advantage of two stable and well‐characterized types of model oligomers (A and B), formed by HypF‐N bacterial protein, type B oligomers displaying lower solvent‐exposed hydrophobicity. Exposure to oligomers of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) revealed differential effects, with type B, but not type A, oligomers leading to a reduction in CD4+ cells. Type A oligomers promoted enhanced differentiation towards CD4+CD25HighFoxP3+ Tregs and displayed a higher suppressive effect on lymphocyte proliferation than Tregs treated with oligomers B or untreated cells. Moreover, our results reveal Th1 and Th17 lymphocyte differentiation mediated by type A oligomers and a differential balance of TGF‐β, IL‐6, IL‐23, IFN‐γ and IL‐10 mediators. These results indicate that type B oligomers recapitulate some of the biological responses associated with Parkinson's disease in peripheral immunocompetent cells, while type A oligomers resemble responses associated with Alzheimer's disease. We anticipate that further studies characterizing the differential effects of protein misfolded oligomers on the peripheral immune system may lead to the development of blood‐based diagnostics, which could report on the type and properties of oligomers present in patients.
Clinical Applications of Intraoral Scanning in Removable Prosthodontics: A Literature Review
Authors: AlRumaih Hamad S.
Published: May 2021

Purpose

This review aimed to identify the reported intraoral scanning applications in fabricating different types of removable prostheses in the field of prosthodontics.

Methods

A comprehensive electronic search was performed using the PubMed and MEDLINE databases. This review included in vitro studies and clinical reports published between January 2013 and March 2021. The main keywords were as follows: intraoral scanning, digital impression, computerized digital impression, removable prosthesis, chairside computer‐aided design/computer‐assisted manufacturing, digital complete denture, digital immediate complete denture, digital interim complete denture, digital removable partial denture, digital removable overdenture, digital obturator, digital occlusal splints, and digital maxillofacial prostheses.

Results

In total, 33 papers (22 clinical reports, 8 papers focused on dental techniques, and 3 clinical studies) were included in the final analysis.

Conclusions

The efficiency of using intraoral scanning in the field of removable prosthodontics was documented. However, there is a need for more clinical studies to identify intraoral scanning‐usage protocols and to yield reliable and valid data.
Threatening Morality: Religious and Political Opposition to Science in the United States
Authors: O'Brien Timothy L. , Noy Shiri
Published: May 2021

Recent research suggests that religious opposition to science in the United States is rooted in a belief that science threatens morality. We test this claim using a survey of United States adults (n = 3,763). Regression results indicate that the religious are more likely than the nonreligious to believe that science breaks down people's understanding of right and wrong, which we call moral opposition to science. However, the strength of this relationship varies by political ideologies. While moral opposition to science is relatively high among conservatives regardless of religiosity, secular and religious liberals differ widely in their beliefs about science's moral meaning. In fact, moral opposition to science among religious liberals is nearly as high as it is among secular conservatives. These findings accentuate the moral dimension of the science–religion interface and they underscore the importance of religion for understanding political opposition to science.
Diet of the introduced red fox Vulpes vulpes in Australia: analysis of temporal and spatial patterns
Authors: Fleming Patricia A. , Crawford Heather M. , Stobo‐Wilson Alyson M. , Dawson Stuart J. , Dickman Christopher R. , Dundas Shannon J. , Gentle Matthew N. , Newsome Thomas M. , O’Connor Julie , Palmer Russell , Riley Joanna , Ritchie Euan G. , Speed James , Saunders Glen , Stuart John‐Michael D. , Thompson Eilysh , Turpin Jeff M. , Woinarski John C.Z.
Published: May 2021

The red fox Vulpes vulpes is one of the world’s most widespread carnivores. A key to its success has been its broad, opportunistic diet. The fox was introduced to Australia about 150 years ago, and within 30 years of its introduction was already recognised as a threat to livestock and native wildlife.

We reviewed 85 fox diet studies (totalling 31693 samples) from throughout the species’ geographic range within Australia. Mammals were a major component of fox diet, being present in 70 ± 19% of samples across n = 160 locations. Invertebrates (38 ± 26% n = 130) and plant material (26 ± 25% n = 123) were also both staple foods and often the dominant food category recorded. Birds (13 ± 11% n = 137) and reptiles (10 ± 15% n = 132) were also commonly reported, while frogs were scarcely represented (1.6 ± 3.6% n = 111) in fox diet studies.

Biogeographical differences reveal factors that likely determine prey availability. Diet composition varied with ecosystem, level of vegetation clearing and condition, and climate zone.

Sample type (i.e. stomach versus scat samples) also significantly influenced reporting of diet composition. Livestock and frogs were underrepresented in records based on analysis of scats, whereas small mammals (native rodents, dasyurid marsupials, and bats) were more likely to be recorded in studies of scats than in studies of stomach contents.

Diet varied seasonally, reflecting activity patterns of prey species and food availability. This synthesis also captures temporal shifts in fox diet over 70 years (1951–2020), as foxes have switched to consuming more native species in the wake of successful broadscale biological control of the invasive European rabbit Oryctolagus cuniculus.

Diet analyses, such as those summarised in this review, capture the evidence required to motivate for greater control of foxes in Australia. This synthesis also highlights the importance of integrated pest species management to meet biodiversity conservation outcomes.
Spatial content of painful sensations
Authors: Skrzypulec Błażej
Published: May 2021

Philosophical considerations regarding experiential spatial content have focused on exteroceptive sensations presenting external entities, and not on interoceptive experiences that present states of our own body. A notable example is studies on interoceptive touch, in which it is argued that interoceptive tactile experiences have rich spatial content such that tactile sensations are experienced as located in a spatial field. This article investigates whether a similarly rich spatial content can be attributed to experiences of acute, cutaneous pain. It is argued that such experiences of pain do not have field‐like content, as they do not present distance relations between painful sensations.
Euro Area Income and Wealth Effects: Aggregation Issues*
Authors: de Bondt Gabe , Gieseck Arne , Herrero Pablo , Zekaite Zivile
Published: May 2021

This empirical study for private consumption in the euro area and the four largest euro area countries validates the need to separate components of income and supports the common practice to split wealth. A focus on income and wealth components avoids an aggregation bias in estimated income and wealth effects. It finds little evidence in favour of an extensive country aggregation issue given direct euro area estimates of income and wealth propensities and forecasts for consumption are not too different from those indirectly aggregated across the four largest euro area countries.