bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Brand attributes, corporate brand image and customer loyalty of Islamic banks in Malaysia
Authors: Ab Hamid Siti Ngayesah , Maulan Suharni , Wan Jusoh Wan Jamaliah
Published: September 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to empirically examine the antecedents and consequences of corporate brand image in the context of Islamic banks in Malaysia. The antecedents of corporate brand image are divided into three categories which are functional brand attribute, emotional brand attribute and spiritual brand attribute. The consequence of corporate brand image on the other hand is loyalty.

Design/methodology/approach

A self-administered survey was used to collect data from experienced Islamic banking customers. A total of 281 questionnaires were analysed using Partial Least Square-Structural Equation Modeling.

Findings

This study found a significant relationship between some aspects of the brand attributes and corporate brand image. Corporate brand image, in turn, influences customer loyalty.

Research limitations/implications

These findings contribute to the understanding that in the context of Islamic banks, the corporate brand image is not only influenced by the functional and emotional aspects, but also the spiritual aspect especially factors related to beliefs. Practically, this study provides insight to the management on the aspects valued by customers in regards to their bank, which could be used to guide Islamic bank positioning strategy.

Originality/value

The concept of corporate brand image has been explored from the perspective of functional and emotional aspects only. This study offers a new attribute influencing corporate brand image in the Islamic banking context, which is the spiritual brand attribute.
Linking networking capability and ambidextrous innovation strategies: the mediating roles of knowledge assimilation application and knowledge transformation application
Authors: Ju Xiaowei , Wang Guanhua , Fu Yu
Published: September 2022

Purpose

From the perspective of social networks and knowledge networks, this study aims to empirically examine an updated four-dimension networking capability (NC) construct and test the relationships between it and innovation strategies through knowledge application activities in the context of Chinese manufacturing firms.

Design/methodology/approach

Data analysis is conducted on a quantitative survey of 219 manufacturing firms in China with a mixed method of partial least squares structural equation modeling and fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis.

Findings

The results indicate that knowledge assimilation application (KAA) and knowledge transformation application (KTA) fully mediate the relationships between NC and ambidextrous innovation strategies. KAA has a stronger association with exploitative innovation (EL) than with exploratory innovation (ER), and KTA has a stronger association with ER than with EL.

Research limitations/implications

The authors develop the conceptualization of NC and examine its role in knowledge application activities within a firm. Further, the authors adopt an alternative perspective to highlight the importance of KAA and KTA in mediating the relationships between NC and exploratory and exploitative innovation strategies.

Practical implications

The findings indicate that firms should build NC based on their knowledge requirements and knowledge network structure. Additionally, managers should possess in-depth insights regarding an effective knowledge application toward different types of external knowledge from partners. More specific, firms are more likely to conduct KAA for a high degree of knowledge relatedness, while for a low degree of knowledge relatedness, firms are more likely to conduct KTA.

Originality/value

The authors provide a novel alternative insight into knowledge application activities. From the perspective of knowledge networks, the authors argue that there are two distinct and parallel activities (i.e. KAA and KTA). The authors empirically examined the mediating roles of KAA and KTA in the NC–ambidextrous innovation strategies relationships as well as enriched the literature on their relationships.
What we know and what we should know about speed of capital structure adjustment: a retrospective using bibliometric and system thinking approach
Authors: Hegde Apoorva Arunachal , Masuna Venkateshwarlu , Panda Ajaya Kumar , Kumar Satish
Published: September 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to conduct bibliometric analysis on the studies dealing with capital structure’s speed of adjustment (SoA) and identify the prominent themes while suggesting future research directions in the area. The existing reviews broadly focus on the capital structure, which provides the scope for conducting a review on this sub-aspect of capital structure.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a three-stage process to conduct this review: identification of academic journals, selection and analysis of target papers. This study uses a combination of bibliometric tools and a system thinking approach to assess the current status of publications and emerging themes within the literature.

Findings

This study has found a progressive evolution of SoA in capital structure research from 1984 to 2021. Studies largely focus on implementing the dynamic models to analyse the impact of adjustment costs, dynamic economic conditions, corporate governance practices and other variables on the firms’ adjustment speed and financial decisions. The network analysis of citations, keywords and clusters gives further knowledge on the intellectual structure of the data.

Research limitations/implications

This study is highly dependent on the papers available within the SCOPUS database. Studies not included herein are not part of this analysis, which may or may not bear an effect on the study’s findings.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, the application of systems engineering concept of “system thinking approach” to identify literature gap and suggest directions for forthcoming research is the first of its kind, thus adding a novel and multidisciplinary aspect to this study.
Pathways of introduction of alien species in Norway: Analyses of an exhaustive dataset to prioritise management efforts
Authors: Sandvik Hanno , Olsen Siri L. , Töpper Joachim P. , Hilmo Olga
Published: September 2022

Alien species constitute one of the major threats to global biodiversity. Stopping alien species at an early stage, preferably before establishment, is crucial for the effectiveness of management actions. To enable early detection and prevent future introductions, knowledge of pathways of introduction and their absolute and relative importance is crucial.

Based on an exhaustive impact assessment of alien species in Norway (all multicellular neobiota), the relations of taxonomy, lifestyle and ecological impact of alien species to their pathways of introduction are investigated. This taxonomically and ecologically unbiased dataset contains 2267 unique pathways of 1180 alien species.

Ecological and taxonomic patterns indicate that terrestrial organisms were predominantly introduced by means of escape (mainly perennial plants escaped from gardens), parasites as contaminants (mainly fungi and insects parasitising plants), freshwater organisms by release (mainly vertebrates) and marine organisms as stowaways (mainly invertebrates and algae). Unaided introductions were most common among insects and marine organisms.

Alien species with high ecological impact were mainly introduced along the same pathways as other alien species. In relative terms, high‐impact species were overrepresented among released species, even though this pathway was subordinate in absolute terms. The number of pathways and the overall introduction pressure were important predictors of ecological impact, especially of the species' invasion potential, and area of occupancy.

Introduction rates of novel alien species have seen recent increases in all taxa and along almost all pathways. This acceleration was especially pronounced for insects and fungi introduced as contaminants and for marine organisms introduced as stowaways. In absolute terms, introduction rates were highest for plant escapes, reaching more than five novel species per year.

Synthesis and applications. Introductions of new alien species cannot be prevented by closing one or two introduction pathways, since none can be singled out as the main pathway of high‐impact alien species. Yet each pathways closed makes a difference, as this reduces the overall introduction pressure. The highest priorities for management are the pathways that are easiest to address, such as release, and those with the highest volumes, such as plant trade.
Mental illness stigma and employer evaluation in hiring: Stereotypes, discrimination and the role of experience
Authors: Østerud Kaja Larsen
Published: September 2022

Mental illness stigma can constitute a significant barrier to entering employment. Drawing on 20 interviews with Norwegian employers, this article investigates how mental illness stigma affects employer evaluation of jobseekers who disclose a history of mental illness. It also explores how employers use accounts of their previous experience with employees with mental illness in their evaluations. Prior to the interviews, the employers received pairs of fictitious applications in which one of the candidates disclosed a history of mental illness. Thus, the interview data were paired with behavioural data on how the employers responded to mental illness disclosure in a genuine recruitment situation. The analysis reveals common stereotypes of people with mental illness as fragile and unreliable. Furthermore, discriminating and inclusive employers are juxtaposed in their approach to mental health stigma, characterised by either taboo and avoidance or empathetic dialogue. The findings indicate how negative experience is coupled with negative attitudes and behaviour and how positive experience is coupled with positive attitudes and behaviour. A central argument is that experience is something that employers play an active part in constructing by choosing to either engage or not engage in a two‐way dialogue with employees struggling with mental illness.
Female directors and firm performance following mergers and acquisitions
Authors: Tran Nguyen Tram Anh , Jubb Christine , Rajendran Diana
Published: September 2022

This study investigates whether higher percentages of female directors contribute to firm performance after merger and acquisition activity (M&A). Resource dependence and human capital theories are used to develop the hypothesis that gender‐diverse boards are of particular benefit in an M&A setting that requires complex decision‐making and close monitoring. Using a sample of 56 Singaporean acquirers and 126 Australian acquirers with single M&A events to avoid confounding and a timeframe of 5 years before and after a single M&A between 2005 and 2012, the percentage of female directors is associated with better firm performance in the years after the M&A. Our results remain robust to alternative proxies for female directors. Using data from two countries with comparable mature capital markets and jurisdictional conditions, the results provide evidence to contribute to the debate on gender targets for boards.
Linking geographical origin with nutritional, mineral, and visual proprieties of pinhão (Araucaria angustifolia seed) from the south of Brazil
Authors: Malta Danielle Specht , de Lima Gabriel Goetten , Arantes Matheus Samponi Tucunduva , de Lacerda André Eduardo Biscaia , Mathias Alvaro Luiz , Magalhães Washington Luiz Esteves , Helm Cristiane Vieira , Masson Maria Lucia
Published: September 2022

The effect of harvest location on cooked pinhão seeds (Araucaria angustifolia) was investigated with regard to its centesimal composition, minerals, and color, and later correlated with environmental and soil variables. Significant differences between cooked pinhão from various harvesting locations were seen; also, principal component analysis was performed for the minerals, protein, moisture, total starch, and color parameters. The geographic location was one of the most important factors. Caçador presented greater differences: lower values for moisture, minerals, geographic parameter, and color characteristics. However, nearby localities, such as Cruz Machado with Bituruna and Lapa with São João do Triunfo, presented similar overall values for minerals and geographic parameters. Each regional geographic location was able to present unique characteristics so that the principal component analysis categorized it in specific quadrants, which is also in agreement with the CIELAB color space. However, hierarchical tree exhibited that CAÇ was the most distinct, due to the most distant municipality, presenting a unique microbiome. The pinhão is a source of various nutrients, which contributes to healthy dietetic daily values. It provides from 20% to 30% of dietary fiber, Cu (42.2%), P (31.1%), K (23.5%), and Zn (22.1%), while also providing quantities of Mg (12.9%), Mn (12.4%), Fe (11.5%), and Ca (6.4%). Therefore, it is possible to obtain food products based on cooked pinhão that contain many nutritional components associated with human health benefits.

Practical Application

The pinheiro‐do‐paraná is a conifer that is currently endangered. However, the commercial use of its seeds may be key to guaranteeing its preservation, in addition to strengthening the economies of households and small producers. The pinhão collected from a large area of Araucária forests, after subsequent boiling, removal of the almond, grinding, and freezing provides large amounts of carbohydrates, higher dietary fiber content, resistant starch, and large quantities of Cu, P, K, and Z, in addition to significant amounts of Mg, Mn, Fe, and Ca. All of these are desirable characteristics that increase the value of pinhão.
Effect of zein and zein‐Peganum harmalaextract coatings of eggshell on the internal quality of eggs and control ofSalmonella enteritidis
Authors: Entezari Asma , Roshanak Sahar , Shakeri Golshan , Sedaghat Nasser
Published: September 2022

The high nutritional value of egg makes it vital to the human diet.Salmonella enteritidisis one of the major global causes of foodborne enteritis in humans. The chicken intestine is the main source ofS.enteritidis. Therefore, eggs play an important role in the transmission of salmonellosis. In this study, we evaluated the effectiveness of coatings made of zein either alone or in combination of hydro‐alcoholic extract ofPeganum harmalaon the quality of eggs and control ofS. enteritidisat 7°C during a period of 28 days. Results demonstrated that both types of the coating significantly improved the physicochemical properties of eggs including weight loss, Haugh unit, and yolk index compared to controls during storage. However, neither of coatings resulted in significant changes in yolk color and pH (p< 0.05). Both types of coating caused two log CFU/ml reductions inS. enteritidispopulation from the first day and eliminated the contamination at the end of the experiment (for 28 days).Salmonellaelimination occurred at day 21 for zein‐plant extract coating. Our findings demonstrate zein coating can be an appropriate approach for maintaining the quality of eggs during shelf life and an effective and economic strategy for control ofS. enteritidisin eggs.

Practical Application

This study shows that the application of zein coating can preserve the internal quality and freshness of eggs during storage. Moreover, zein coating is a highly effective strategy in the control ofSalmonella. This method can be used on a commercial scale for enhancing the safety and quality of eggs.
Effect of drying method on the production of in vitro short‐chain fatty acids and histone deacetylase mediation of cocoa pod husk
Authors: Nieto‐Figueroa Karen Haydeé , Gaytán‐Martínez Marcela , Loarca‐Piña Ma. Guadalupe Flavia , Campos‐Vega Rocio
Published: September 2022

We evaluated the effect of cocoa pod husk (CPH) processing (microwave [MW], forced‐air drying [FAD], and FAD plus extrusion [FAD‐E]), and in vitro gastrointestinal digestion on the in vitro human colonic fermentation metabolism, in vitro bioactivity on human HT‐29 colon cancer cell, and the in silico mechanism of selected compounds. CPH as a substrate for human colonic microbiota significantly decrease local pH (MW −0.7, FAD −0.2, and FAD‐E −0.3, 24 h) and modifies their metabolic activity (short‐chain fatty acids [SCFAs] production). FAD‐E generated the highest butyric (7.6 mM/L, 4 h) and FAD the highest acetic and propionic acid levels (71.4 and 36.7 mM/L, 24 h). The in vitro colonic fermented FAD‐E sample (FE/FAD‐E) caused HT‐29 colorectal cancer cells death by inducing damage on membrane integrity and inhibiting (up to 92%) histone‐deacetylase (HDAC) activity. In silico results showed that chlorogenic acid, (−)‐epicatechin, and (+)‐catechin, followed by butyric and propionic acids, are highly involved in the HDAC6 inhibitory activity. The results highlight the potential human health postbiotic benefits of CPH consumption, mediated by colonic microbiota‐derived metabolites.

Practical Application

The enormous amount of CPH (10 tons/1 ton of dry beans) generated by the cocoa industry can be used as a removable source of bioactive compounds with physicochemical functionality and health bioactivity. However, their potential applications and health benefits are insufficiently explored. CPH represents a serious disposal problem; practical and innovative ideas to use this highly available and affordable material are urgent. Research exploring their potential applications can increase the sustainability of the cocoa agro‐industry. This paper highlights the value addition that can be achieved with this valuable industrial co‐product, generating new functional products and ingredients.
Impact of internal aqueous phase gelation on in vitro lipid digestion of epigallocatechin gallate‐loaded W1/O/W2 double emulsions incorporated in alginate hydrogel beads
Authors: Wang Wenjuan , Dong Zhe , Gu Liyuan , Wu Bi , Ji Suping , Xia Qiang
Published: September 2022

Our objective was to investigate if the internal aqueous phase gelation of Water‐in‐oil‐in‐water double emulsions encapsulated in alginate beads would affect their structural stability and lipid hydrolysis during in vitro digestion. Therefore, bioactive molecules such as (−)‐epigallocatechin gallate were encapsulated into different types of delivery systems: original double emulsions (as control) and incorporated double emulsions (filled in alginate hydrogel beads), both with non‐gelled or gelled internal aqueous phase by locust bean gum and κ‐carrageenan. After 2 h of gastric digestion, the gelled original emulsions showed smaller mean droplet diameters and less coalescence during the in vitro simulated gastrointestinal digestion compared to the non‐gelled original emulsions. For the incorporated emulsions, oil droplets released from beads aggregated under intestinal conditions, and the rate of lipolysis was delayed. Interestingly, the internal aqueous phase gelation also impacted the rate and cumulative amount of free fatty acids (FFA) released.

Practical Application

The combination of incorporating (−)‐epigallocatechin gallate‐loaded double emulsions into the alginate hydrogel matrix and gelling the internal aqueous phase was a benefit to regulating the rate and extent of lipid digestion for specific applications in foods, such as to control blood lipid levels and appetite.
Temperature enhances the functional diversity of dissolved organic matter utilization by coastal marine bacteria
Authors: Morán Xosé Anxelu G. , Arandia‐Gorostidi Nestor , Huete‐Stauffer Tamara Megan , Alonso‐Sáez Laura
Published: September 2022

Although bulk bacterial metabolism in response to temperature has been determined for different oceanic regions, the impact of temperature on the functional diversity of dissolved organic matter (DOM) utilization has been largely unexplored. Here, we hypothesized that besides modifying the rates of carbon utilization, temperature can also alter the diversity of substrates utilized. The patterns of utilization of 31 model DOM compounds (as represented in Biolog EcoPlate™) by bacterioplankton were assessed using inocula from surface waters of the southern Bay of Biscay continental shelf over 1 year. Bacteria utilized more polymers and carbohydrates in late spring and summer than in winter, likely reflecting changes in substrate availability linked to the release and accumulation of DOM in phytoplankton post‐bloom conditions. Seawater temperature correlated positively with the number of substrates utilized (i.e. functional richness) and this relationship was maintained in monthly experimental incubations spanning 3°C below and above in situ values. The enhancement of functional richness with experimental warming displayed a unimodal response to ambient temperature, peaking at 16°C. This temperature acted as a threshold separating nutrient‐sufficient from nutrient‐deficient conditions at the study site, suggesting that trophic conditions will be critical in the response of microbial DOM utilization to future warming.
The Effect of Banking Deregulation on Borrowing Firms' Risk‐Taking Incentives*†
Authors: Bens Daniel , Liao Scott , Su Barbara
Published: September 2022

We examine how regulatory restrictions on capital market activity affect the compensation contracting environment within firms. This study aims to expand our understanding of how financial market development affects firm risk‐taking via management compensation designs. Specifically, taking advantage of the staggered implementation of the Interstate Banking and Branching Efficiency Act (IBBEA), which increases bank competition and loan geographical diversification, this study examines how borrowing firms' compensation structures change when banks increase risk tolerance in their loan portfolios. Using hand‐collected compensation data of firms with market capitalization less than $75 million, we hypothesize and find that borrowing firms are likely to increase risk incentives after IBBEA and that this increase is more pronounced for firms located in states with less banking competition in the pre‐IBBEA period. We also show the findings to be more significant for borrowers whose lenders acquire more diversification benefits after IBBEA. These findings suggest that following deregulation, when banks face increased competition as well as an enhanced ability to diversify their credit risk geographically, these same banks tend to increase their tolerance for borrowers' risk‐taking. That is, their clients—nonfinancial firms borrowing from them—adjust their compensation contracts that are previously constrained by bank distaste for risk. We also document that firms that increase their risk incentives the most invest more in R&D, suggesting that management compensation is a complementary channel through which IBBEA affects firm innovation.
Aging and cancer epigenetics: Where do the paths fork?
Authors: Pérez Raúl Fernández , Tejedor Juan Ramón , Fernández Agustín Fernández , Fraga Mario Fernández
Published: September 2022

Aging and cancer are clearly associated processes, at both the epidemiological and molecular level. Epigenetic mechanisms are good candidates to explain the molecular links between the two phenomena, but recent reports have also revealed considerable differences, particularly regarding the loss of DNA methylation in the two processes. The large‐scale generation and availability of genome‐wide epigenetic data now permits systematic studies to be undertaken which may help clarify the similarities and differences between aging and cancer epigenetic alterations. In addition, the development of epigenetic clocks provides a new dimension in which to investigate diseases at the molecular level. Here, we examine current and future questions about the roles of DNA methylation mechanisms as causal factors in the processes of aging and cancer so that we may better understand if and how aging‐associated epigenetic alterations lead to tumorigenesis. It seems certain that comprehending the molecular mechanisms underlying epigenetic clocks, especially with regard to somatic stem cell aging, combined with applying single‐cell epigenetic‐age profiling technologies to aging and cancer cohorts, and the integration of existing and upcoming epigenetic evidence within the genetic damage models of aging will prove to be crucial to improving understanding of these two interrelated phenomena.
An in vitro evaluation of the WIRELE‐x electronic apex locator
Authors: Brand Lucas , Dunlap Craig A. , Scott Raymond , Arias Anna , Peters Ove
Published: September 2022

This study evaluated the accuracy of the Wirele‐X (Forum Tec, Ashkelon, Israel), a novel Bluetooth‐enabled wireless electronic apex locator. Thirty‐one extracted teeth with mature apices were used. Under 10X magnification, the actual canal lengths were determined. The teeth were embedded in alginate and electronic canal lengths were obtained using the Root ZX II and Wirele‐X electronic apex locators. The actual canal lengths and electronic canal lengths were compared with Student's t‐test. The average distance from the file tip to the actual canal length was −0.11 mm (±0.16) for the Root ZX II, and − 0.07 mm (±0.21) for the Wirele‐X. There were no statistically significant differences between the two electronic apex locators in their ability to determine the actual canal length (p > 0.05). The wireless apex locator (Wirele‐X) and the wired apex locator (Root ZX II) were found to be equally accurate.
Bedside temporary transvenous cardiac pacing lead placement in patients with tricuspid valve surgery without guidance of X‐ray: A single‐center experience
Authors: Chen Mingxian , Wang Zhuo , Wang Songyun , Zhu Tongjian , Liu Zhenjiang , Li Xuping , Wu Zhihong , Liu Qiming , Zhou Shenghua
Published: September 2022

Background

It is difficult to insert cardiac pacing leads in patient with tricuspid valve surgery (TVS). The aim of this study was to evaluate safety and effectiveness of a novel technique applied for bedside temporary pacemaker placement (TPP) in patients with TVS.

Methods

We investigated patients with TVS who required bedside TPP without X‐ray guidance in cardiac intensive care unit between January 2019 and March 2022. They were divided into Novel pre‐shaped group (N = 21) and Control group (routine pre‐shaped group, N = 26). The ordinary bipolar electrodes were applied in both groups. In Novel pre‐shaped group, electrodes were reshaped by a novel technique with three‐curve with anterior tip method, while electrodes were shaped by traditional strategy in Control group. We evaluated the operation duration, first‐attempt success rate of the lead placement, pacing threshold, success rate of lead placement, the rate of leads displacement, and complications.

Results

Compared with that in Control group, the procedure time was significantly shortened and the first‐attempt success rate of lead placement was obviously increased in Novel pre‐shaped group (both p < 0.05). Although there was a slight reduction in complications in Novel pre‐shaped group when compared with that in Control group. However, there were no statistical significance in pacing threshold, the success rate of lead placement, the rate of leads displacement, and complications when compared between two groups.

Conclusions

We propose a novel technique, three‐curve with anterior tip method, is a feasible and effective bedside method to insert emergency temporary pacing leads in patients with TVS.
Definitive antibiotic treatment with a third‐generation cephalosporin and with piperacillin‐tazobactam worked well for some children with Serratia bacteraemia
Authors: Fanous Eliana , Schiller Ofer , Kaplan Eytan , Vardi Yoav , Herscovici Tina , Ben‐Zvi Haim , Mor Meirav , Livni Gilat
Published: September 2022

Aim

This study aimed to describe epidemiological and clinical characteristics of Serratia bacteraemia and to identify factors associated with mortality.

Methods

The microbiology database of Schneider Children's Medical Centre of Israel was examined for Serratia marcescens positive blood cultures, between January 2007 and May 2020. Demographic, clinical and microbial characteristics were analysed.

Results

Of the 81 patients files that met the inclusion criteria, 64 (80%) were of patients hospitalised in paediatric intensive care units. The median age was 78 days and 54% were male. In‐hospitalisation mortality was 26%, 62% died under 90 days old. Underlying conditions including prematurity, congenital cardiac defects and malignancies were noted in 95% of patients. Prior to the bloodstream infections, 62% of patients underwent procedures, 64% were on ventilatory support and 77% had central lines. Thrombocytopenia and elevated C‐reactive protein levels were found in 60% of the children. Twenty‐eight children received definitive monotherapy as either piperacillin‐tazobactam or a third‐generation cephalosporin; survival rates were similar between the two antibiotic treatment groups.

Conclusion

In our cohort, 26% died. Death was more common in young infants. Mortality was associated with hospitalisation in intensive care units and thrombocytopenia. Survival rates following definitive monotherapy were similar for patients treated with piperacillin‐tazobactam and those treated with third‐generation cephalosporin.
Psychotropic medication in pregnancy and lactation and early development of exposed children
Authors: Leutritz Anna Linda , van Braam Lara , Preis Katharina , Gehrmann Andrea , Scherf‐Clavel Maike , Fiedler Katrin , Unterecker Stefan , Kittel‐Schneider Sarah
Published: September 2022

There is still limited knowledge about alterations of blood concentrations of psychotropic drugs during pregnancy, the transfer of psychotropic drugs into breastmilk and the effects on exposed children. We investigated changes in concentrations of psychopharmacological medication during pregnancy and lactation in serum and breastmilk at different time points in a naturalistic sample of 60 mothers and observed the development of the exposed children in the first 12 months. We found a decrease in serum concentrations from the first to the second trimester of amitriptyline, duloxetine, escitalopram, quetiapine and sertraline. Citalopram stayed rather stable during pregnancy, sertraline levels interestingly increased again from the second to the third trimester. High concentration‐by‐dose ratios in breastmilk were found for venlafaxine as well as lamotrigine, low for quetiapine and clomipramine. Similarly, clomipramine and quetiapine showed low milk/serum–penetration ratios. Regarding the birth outcome measures in children, we found no significant differences between in utero exposed compared to nonexposed newborns. There were no significant differences in the development in the first 12 months. Psychotropic medication in the peripartum needs a balancing of risks and benefits and a continuous therapeutic drug monitoring can be a guidance for clinicians to monitor drug alteration patterns, which are likely to occur due to physiological pregnancy‐associated changes in pharmacokinetics. Accordingly, therapeutic drug monitoring can optimize a medication in pregnancy and lactation with the lowest effective dose.
Peptide epitopes as biomarkers of soya sensitization in rBet v 1 immunotherapy of birch‐related soya allergy
Authors: Caballero Lisbeth Ramírez , Treudler Regina , Delaroque Nicolas , Simon Jan C. , Kern Karolin , Szardenings Michael
Published: September 2022

Background

There are no diagnostic and/or prognostic markers of the treatment outcome in patients receiving allergen immunotherapy (AIT). Although numerous allergen epitopes are known, their value in this context has not been investigated. This paper deals with re‐evaluation of sera from patients who underwent AIT against rBet v 1 for treatment of their soya allergy (BASALIT trial).

Objective

To evaluate the diagnostic and/or prognostic potential of allergen epitopes recognition by antibodies from patients with birch‐related soya allergy before and after rBet v 1‐immunotherapy.

Methods

PR‐10 epitope‐binding profiles from 34 patients were identified in silico using a statistical peptide phage display at start and at end of AIT. IgE‐ and IgG‐binding to these peptide epitopes was measured in peptide microarrays. Clinical relevance of epitopes was evaluated by comparing these measurements to a number of treatment outcome measures recorded during double‐blind placebo‐controlled food challenge at start and end of AIT.

Results

We showed that IgG‐ and IgE‐recognition of peptide epitopes after AIT were surrogate markers of 5 out of 12 analysed treatment outcome measures using this patient cohort. Seven epitopes were identified from multiple PR‐10 allergen sequences. Twenty‐six peptide epitopes were used for IgG and IgE measurements. IgE‐binding to one of the epitopes was associated with stronger intensity of oral tingling/itching after ingesting soya at start of AIT. IgG recognizing two other epitopes at start of AIT could predict decreased Cor a 1‐specific IgE concentration (p = .043) and decreased lip swelling intensity (p = .016) after AIT. Tolerance to increasing amounts of soy at food challenge correlated with IgG‐binding to another epitope at start of AIT (p = .046).

Conclusion

IgG‐ and IgE‐binding to peptide epitopes in PR‐10 is a potential indicator of the outcome and clinical course of AIT of soya‐sensitized patients with rBet v 1.
Geographic hot spots of kidney transplant candidates wait‐listed post‐dialysis
Authors: Buchalter R. Blake , Huml Anne M. , Poggio Emilio D. , Schold Jesse D.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Preemptive wait‐listing of deceased donor kidney transplant (DDKT) candidates before maintenance dialysis increases the likelihood of transplantation and improves outcomes among transplant patients. Previous studies have identified substantial disparities in rates of preemptive listing, but a gap exists in examining geographic sources of disparities, particularly for sub‐regional units. Identifying small area hot spots where delayed listing is particularly prevalent may more effectively inform both health policy and regionally appropriate interventions.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study utilizing 2010–2020 Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients (SRTR) data for all DDKT candidates to examine overall and race‐stratified geospatial hot spots of post‐dialysis wait‐listing in U.S. zip code tabulation areas (ZCTA). Three geographic clustering methods were utilized to identify robust statistically significant hot spots of post‐dialysis wait‐listing.

Results

Novel sub‐regional hot spots were identified in the southeast, southwest, Appalachia, and California, with a majority existing in the southeast. Race‐stratified results were more nuanced, but broadly reflected similar patterns. Comparing transplant candidates in hot spots to candidates in non‐clusters indicated a strong association between residence in hot spots and high area deprivation (OR: 6.76, 95%CI: 6.52‐7.02), indicating that improving access healthcare in these areas may be particularly beneficial.

Conclusion

Our study identified overall and race‐stratified hot spots with low rates of preemptive wait list placement in the U.S., which may be useful for prospective healthcare policy and interventions via targeting of these narrowly defined geographical areas.
Utility of the tricuspid annular tissue doppler systolic velocity and pulmonary artery systolic pressure relationship in right ventricular systolic function assessment: A pilot study
Authors: López‐Candales Angel , Vallurupalli Srikanth
Published: September 2022

Background

Tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) to pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP) ratio has been validated as a valuable noninvasive measure of right ventricular (RV) elastance and systolic function. However, the more reliable TA systolic (s’) velocity measure of RV systolic function compared to TAPSE has not been previously studied.

Methods

We conducted a pilot study using several variables of RV function in 50 patients with the main aim to determine which numerical expression between TA TDI s’/PASP and TAPSE/PASP ratio was most useful.

Results

In a stepwise multiple regression analysis, TA TDI s’/PASP ratio (p < .0002); LVOT VTI/RVOT VTI ratio (p < .0002); RVOT VTI (p < .0047); TAPSE/PASP ratio (p < .0259) and TA TDI e’ (p < .0292) were best in discriminating normal versus abnormal RV systolic function. Using receiver operator curve analysis, cut‐off values for both TA TDI s’/PASP (>3.9 mm/c/mmHg) had 82.1% sensitivity and 77.3% specificity while the TAPSE/PASP (>.61 mm/mmHg) had 89.3% sensitivity and 68.2% specificity in identifying normal RV function in our studied population.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that TA TDI s’/PASP is a better mathematical expression when examining the relationship between RV contractility and RV resistance relationship. Furthermore, we also found that inclusion of RVOT VTI, RV diastolic properties, and left ventricular systolic function are important determinants of RV systolic function assessments and should be routinely included. Additional prospective studies are now needed to confirm these results using hemodynamic data.
An isolated congenital absence of right pulmonary artery associated with pulmonary hypertension with coronary collaterals: A case report
Authors: Demir Muhammed , Akdağ Serkan , Deniz Muhammed Akif , Şimşek Hakkı
Published: September 2022

Unilateral absence of pulmonary artery (UAPA) resulting from a defect in the aortic arch's embryogenesis. Patients who survive into adulthood is rare. Herein, we presented a case of UAPA with pulmonary hypertension in a 49‐year old female.
Acceleration of vegetation phenological changes
Authors: Chen Min
Published: September 2022

Piao et al. (2022) presents an interesting study on vegetation phenology from a novel angle. The study examined the speed of canopy development and senescence, or the “acceleration of vegetation phenological changes”, and investigated its relationship with the trend of vegetation greening/browning and the underlying climate driving factors. It is an important contribution to the understanding of vegetation response to climate change, and may inspire new directions of vegetation phenology research.
Serum globulin levels are associated with HIV reservoir size and immune restoration during long‐term ART
Authors: Zhang Qing , Jiao Yan‐Mei , Li Guang , Zhang Lu‐Xue , Gao Lin , Guo Xiao‐Yan , Mijiti Zilaiguli , Guo Yun‐Tian , Xu Wen , Huang Hui‐Huang , Wang Fu‐Sheng
Published: September 2022

Objectives

The objectives of this study were to analyze the relationship between serum globulin levels and immune restoration and HIV reservoir size during long‐term antiretroviral therapy (ART).

Methods

We enrolled 13 patients living with HIV who had been receiving ART for 5 years. We measured levels of serum globulin, cell‐associated (CA) HIV DNA and RNA, and p24 antibody at 0, 1, 3, and 5 years of ART. CD38 and human leukocyte antigen – DR isotype (HLA‐DR) were used as activation markers for T‐cell activation. Serum concentrations of the inflammatory cytokines interferon gamma‐inducible protein (IP)‐10 and soluble CD163 (sCD163) were detected by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. We analyzed the relationship between serum globulin levels, HIV reservoir size, immune restoration, T‐cell immune activation, and inflammatory levels during long‐term ART.

Results

Our data showed that serum globulin levels in people living with HIV were higher than in healthy controls and significantly decreased during the first year of ART. Serum globulin levels during long‐term ART were positively correlated with CA HIV DNA, CA HIV RNA, p24 antibody levels, and CD8+ T‐cell counts and negatively correlated with CD4+ T‐cell counts and CD4/CD8 ratios. Moreover, serum globulin levels were positively correlated with CD4+ and CD8+ T‐cell activation and the concentrations of inflammatory biomarkers IP‐10 and sCD163 during long‐term ART.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that serum globulin levels may be associated with HIV reservoir size and immune restoration during long‐term ART.
Association between gestational weight gain and risk of overweight at 3 years old: The Japan Environment and Children's Study
Authors: Tanigawa Kanami , Kawanishi Yoko , Ikehara Satoyo , Kimura Takashi , Ueda Kimiko , Kimura Tadashi , Ozono Keiichi , Iso Hiroyasu ,   the Japan Environment and Children's Study Group
Published: September 2022

Background

It is unclear if gestational weight gain (GWG) increases the risk of children with overweight.

Objectives

We examined the association between GWG and the risk of overweight in 3‐year‐old children in the Japanese nationwide birth cohort study.

Methods

Among 64 336 singleton births, we calculated the risk ratios (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) of the association between GWG categories and children with overweight, following an adjustment of the confounding variables.

Results

GWG was positively associated with the risk of overweight among 3‐year‐old children. The multivariable RR (95% CI) was 1.21 (1.17–1.25) per 5 kg increase of the GWG. The multivariable RR (95% CI) for excessive GWG was 1.20 (1.12–1.28) and 1.27 (1.16–1.39) based on the modified Japanese and IOM criteria, respectively, compared to adequate GWG. The multivariable RR (95% CI) of overweight with children for inadequate versus adequate GWG was 0.83 (0.78–0.88) and 0.84 (0.79–0.89) based on the modified Japanese and IOM criteria, respectively.

Conclusions

GWG was positively associated with a high risk of overweight at 3 years of age. The risk of offspring overweight was 20%–27% higher and 16%–17% lower with excessive GWG and inadequate GWG, respectively, compared to adequate GWG, based on the aforementioned criteria.
Significant inverse association of testosterone level with penile deformity severity in Japanese males with Peyronie's disease
Authors: Mitsui Yozo , Yamabe Fumito , Hori Shunsuke , Uetani Masato , Aoki Hiroshi , Sakurabayashi Kei , Okawa Mizuho , Kobayashi Hideyuki , Nakajima Koichi , Nagao Koichi
Published: September 2022

Objectives

We evaluated the relationship between penile curvature and testosterone in Peyronie's disease patients treated in Japan.

Methods

Data were obtained from 109 patients with Peyronie's disease treated with surgery at our hospital between April 2004 and December 2019. Penile deformity assessment was based on findings of a rigid erection induced by intracavernosal injection. Low total testosterone level was defined as <300 ng/dl. Patients were divided into two groups according to curvature severity (I, <60°; II ≥60°), then clinical factors including total testosterone were compared. Uni‐ and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors predicting severe penile deformity (≥60°).

Results

For all patients, mean total testosterone was 469 ng/dl and median curvature was 50°, with a significant inverse correlation found between curvature and testosterone level (p < 0.0001). Group I and II patients numbered 55 and 54, respectively. Mean total testosterone for Group II was 397 ng/dl, significantly lower than Group I (539 ng/dl). Median curvature in 15 patients with a low testosterone level was 80°, significantly higher than those with a normal testosterone range (50°). Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis indicated total testosterone, follicle stimulating hormone, and C‐reactive protein as significant factors correlated with severe penile deformity, among which total testosterone was most relevant.

Conclusion

The present findings confirmed that penile deformity severity is correlated with testosterone level in Japanese males with Peyronie's disease.
Overview of recent advancements in asthma management
Authors: Witt Ashleigh , Douglass Jo A. , Harun Nur‐Shirin
Published: September 2022

Asthma is a common but complex heterogenous inflammatory airway disorder. Despite significant developments in our understanding of the pathophysiology and treatment of asthma, it remains a major cause of mortality and morbidity. Optimal management involves addressing modifiable risk factors, titration of inhaled pharmacotherapy in a stepwise approach and, in severe disease, consideration of biologic agents. Appreciation of the clinical characteristics of asthma and recognition of the immune pathways involved has allowed the development of phenotypic and endotypic subtypes of asthma to be better defined. This has revolutionised asthma management, allowing risk stratification of patients, targeted use of biologic agents to modify cytokine responses that drive asthma and improved patient outcomes. Patient education and engagement are critical to the management of this disease in an era of personalised medicine and a rapidly changing global environment.
Intracellular complement: Evidence, definitions, controversies, and solutions
Authors: King Ben C. , Blom Anna M.
Published: September 2022

The term “intracellular complement” has been introduced recently as an umbrella term to distinguish functions of complement proteins that take place intracellularly, rather than in the extracellular environment. However, this rather undefined term leaves some confusion as to the classification of what intracellular complement really is, and as to which intracellular compartment(s) it should refer to. In this review, we will describe the evidence for both canonical and non‐canonical functions of intracellular complement proteins, as well as the current controversies and unanswered questions as to the nature of the intracellular complement. We also suggest new terms to facilitate the accurate description and discussion of specific forms of intracellular complement and call for future experiments that will be required to provide more definitive evidence and a better understanding of the mechanisms of intracellular complement activity.
Fabrication of submicron Li‐rich Li2(Ti,Zr)O3 solid solution ceramics with sluggish grain growth rate
Authors: Guo Hao , Shi Yanli , Lu Zhonghua , Wang Gaoyuan , Deng Mao , Wang Haomin , Qi Jianqi , Lu Tiecheng
Published: September 2022

Doping and forming solid solution is an effective approach to tailor densification and grain growth. In this study, submicron Li2(Ti,Zr)O3 solid solution ceramics was successfully fabricated by a modified solid‐state route for the first time. The use of appropriate starting powders can greatly reduce the synthesis temperature, and the preparation of Li2(Ti,Zr)O3 with submicron grain size is possible. The substitution of Ti by Zr will inhibit the phase transition from cubic to monoclinic structure, as well as the grain growth and pore removal. By doping 10‐at.% Zr, the grain size was significantly decreased from several μm to 400 nm at 900°C, which contributes to a high conductivity eight times that of pure Li2TiO3. Moreover, after being heated at 900°C for 10 days, the grain size of Li2(Ti,Zr)O3 only increases to 5 μm; however, the grains of Li2TiO3 grows up to 16 μm with abnormal grain growth. The compositions of Li2(Ti,Zr)O3 are high uniform with no element segregation, indicating the sluggish grain growth rate is caused by the slow diffusion of Zr rather than segregation‐induced solute drag. By adding excess Li and two‐step sintering, the Li‐rich Li2(Ti,Zr)O3 ceramic pebbles with high crush load of 50–60 N and small grain size of 300–500 nm were successfully fabricated. This work demonstrates a simple method for the synthesis of Li2(Ti,Zr)O3, which makes this material more widely accessible for exploration and also help accelerate its engineering application to be an advanced solid breeder.