bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FDG PET/CT to detect bone marrow involvement in the initial staging of patients with aggressive non-Hodgkin lymphoma: results from the prospective, multicenter PETAL and OPTIMAL>60 trials
Authors: Kaddu-Mulindwa Dominic , Altmann Bettina , Held Gerhard , Angel Stephanie , Stilgenbauer Stephan , Thurner Lorenz , Bewarder Moritz , Schwier Maren , Pfreundschuh Michael , Löffler Markus , Menhart Karin , Grosse Jirka , Ziepert Marita , Herrmann Ken , Dührsen Ulrich , Hüttmann Andreas , Barbato Francesco , Poeschel Viola , Hellwig Dirk
Published: April 2021

Purpose

Fluorine-18 fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography combined with computed tomography (FDG PET/CT) is the standard for staging aggressive non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). Limited data from prospective studies is available to determine whether initial staging by FDG PET/CT provides treatment-relevant information of bone marrow (BM) involvement (BMI) and thus could spare BM biopsy (BMB).

Methods

Patients from PETAL (NCT00554164) and OPTIMAL>60 (NCT01478542) with aggressive B-cell NHL initially staged by FDG PET/CT and BMB were included in this pooled analysis. The reference standard to confirm BMI included a positive BMB and/or FDG PET/CT confirmed by targeted biopsy, complementary imaging (CT or magnetic resonance imaging), or concurrent disappearance of focal FDG-avid BM lesions with other lymphoma manifestations during immunochemotherapy.

Results

Among 930 patients, BMI was detected by BMB in 85 (prevalence 9%) and by FDG PET/CT in 185 (20%) cases, for a total of 221 cases (24%). All 185 PET-positive cases were true positive, and 709 of 745 PET-negative cases were true negative. For BMB and FDG PET/CT, sensitivity was 38% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 32–45%) and 84% (CI: 78–88%), specificity 100% (CI: 99–100%) and 100% (CI: 99–100%), positive predictive value 100% (CI: 96–100%) and 100% (CI: 98–100%), and negative predictive value 84% (CI: 81–86%) and 95% (CI: 93–97%), respectively. In all of the 36 PET-negative cases with confirmed BMI patients had other adverse factors according to IPI that precluded a change of standard treatment. Thus, the BMB would not have influenced the patient management.

Conclusion

In patients with aggressive B-cell NHL, routine BMB provides no critical staging information compared to FDG PET/CT and could therefore be omitted.

Trial registration

NCT00554164 and NCT01478542
Dosimetry and optimal scan time of [18F]SiTATE-PET/CT in patients with neuroendocrine tumours
Authors: Beyer Leonie , Gosewisch Astrid , Lindner Simon , Völter Friederike , Mittlmeier Lena M. , Tiling Reinhold , Brendel Matthias , Cyran Clemens C. , Unterrainer Marcus , Rübenthaler Johannes , Auernhammer Christoph J. , Spitzweg Christine , Böning Guido , Gildehaus F. J. , Jurkschat Klaus , Wängler Carmen , Wängler Björn , Schirrmacher Ralf , Wenter Vera , Todica Andrei , Bartenstein Peter , Ilhan Harun
Published: April 2021

Purpose

Radiolabelled somatostatin analogues targeting somatostatin receptors (SSR) are well established for combined positron emission tomography/computer tomography (PET/CT) imaging of neuroendocrine tumours (NET). [18F]SiTATE has recently been introduced showing high image quality, promising clinical performance and improved logistics compared to the clinical reference standard 68Ga-DOTA-TOC. Here we present the first dosimetry and optimal scan time analysis.

Methods

Eight NET patients received a [18F]SiTATE-PET/CT (250 ± 66 MBq) with repeated emission scans (10, 30, 60, 120, 180 min after injection). Biodistribution in normal organs and SSR-positive tumour uptake were assessed. Dosimetry estimates for risk organs were determined using a combined linear-monoexponential model, and by applying 18F S-values and reference target masses for the ICRP89 adult male or female (OLINDA 2.0). Tumour-to-background ratios were compared quantitatively and visually between different scan times.

Results

After 1 h, normal organs showed similar tracer uptake with only negligible changes until 3 h post-injection. In contrast, tracer uptake by tumours increased progressively for almost all types of metastases, thus increasing tumour-to-background ratios over time. Dosimetry resulted in a total effective dose of 0.015 ± 0.004 mSv/MBq. Visual evaluation revealed no clinically relevant discrepancies between later scan times, but image quality was rated highest in 60 and 120 min images.

Conclusion

[18F]SiTATE-PET/CT in NET shows overall high tumour-to-background ratios from 60 to 180 min after injection and an effective dose comparable to 68Ga-labelled alternatives. For clinical use of [18F]SiTATE, the best compromise between image quality and tumour-to-background contrast is reached at 120 min, followed by 60 min after injection.
Getting grip in changing environments: the effect of friction anisotropy inversion on robot locomotion
Authors: Tramsen Halvor T. , Heepe Lars , Homchanthanakul Jettanan , Wörgötter Florentin , Gorb Stanislav N. , Manoonpong Poramate
Published: April 2021

Legged locomotion of robots can be greatly improved by bioinspired tribological structures and by applying the principles of computational morphology to achieve fast and energy-efficient walking. In a previous research, we mounted shark skin on the belly of a hexapod robot to show that the passive anisotropic friction properties of this structure enhance locomotion efficiency, resulting in a stronger grip on varying walking surfaces. This study builds upon these results by using a previously investigated sawtooth structure as a model surface on a legged robot to systematically examine the influences of different material and surface properties on the resulting friction coefficients and the walking behavior of the robot. By employing different surfaces and by varying the stiffness and orientation of the anisotropic structures, we conclude that with having prior knowledge about the walking environment in combination with the tribological properties of these structures, we can greatly improve the robot’s locomotion efficiency.
Reasons for presenteeism in different occupational branches in Sweden: a population based cross-sectional study
Authors: Marklund Staffan , Gustafsson Klas , Bergström Gunnar , Leineweber Constanze
Published: April 2021

Objective

To compare the prevalence and reasons for presenteeism in occupations in three branches defined as employees handling people, handling things or handling symbols.

Method

A cross-sectional population-based cohort study was conducted. The study group was drawn from a representative sample (n = 6230) aged 16–64, who had been interviewed in 2015 or in 2017 for the Swedish Work Environment Surveys (SWES). The odds ratios (ORs) stratified by occupational category for reasons of presenteeism, with 95% confidence intervals (CI), were estimated using binomial multiple logistic regression analysis.

Results

The study showed that presenteeism was more common among employees handling people (74%), when compared to employees handling things (65%) or handling symbols (70%). The most common reason for presenteeism among employees handling people was “I do not want to burden my colleagues”, while “Because nobody else can carry out my responsibilities” was most common in the other two categories. After control for socio-demography, work environments and health, the differences in reasons mostly remained significant between the three occupational categories.

Conclusion

The differences between occupational categories are important for prevalence and reasons for presenteeism. As presenteeism affects the future health of employees and the productivity of the work unit, attempts to reduce presenteeism may be important. Because the reasons vary between occupations, customized preventive measures should be applied in different occupational settings. Among employees handling people, covering up for absence in work team is relevant, while among employees handling symbols and handling things the corresponding focus could be on shared responsibilities for specific tasks.
A strain-gradient formulation for fiber reinforced polymers: hybrid phase-field model for porous-ductile fracture
Authors: Dittmann M. , Schulte J. , Schmidt F. , Hesch C.
Published: April 2021

A novel numerical approach to analyze the mechanical behavior within composite materials including the inelastic regime up to final failure is presented. Therefore, a second-gradient theory is combined with phase-field methods to fracture. In particular, we assume that the polymeric matrix material undergoes ductile fracture, whereas continuously embedded fibers undergo brittle fracture as it is typical e.g. for roving glass reinforced thermoplastics. A hybrid phase-field approach is developed and applied along with a modified Gurson–Tvergaard–Needelman GTN-type plasticity model accounting for a temperature-dependent growth of voids on microscale. The mechanical response of the arising microstructure of the woven fabric gives rise to additional higher-order terms, representing homogenized bending contributions of the fibers. Eventually, a series of tests is conducted for this physically comprehensive multifield formulation to investigate different kinds and sequences of failure within long fiber reinforced polymers.
How anisotropic and isotropic atomic displacement parameters monitor protein covalent bonds rigidity: isotropic B-factors underestimate bond rigidity
Authors: Carugo Oliviero
Published: April 2021

Under the assumption that covalent bonds are rigid, it is possible to compare the estimations of rigidity based on anisotropic and isotropic B-factors. This is done by computing the difference of the mean-square displacements (Delta-u) of atoms A and Z along the covalent bond A–Z, which must be close to zero for a rigid bond. The analysis of a high-quality set of protein structures, refined at a resolution better than (or equal to) 0.8 Angstroms, showed that Delta-u is significantly close to zero when anisotropic B-factors are used, with an average 60% Delta-u reduction. This reduction is larger for larger B-factors and this suggests that care should be taken in data-mining procedures that involve isotropic B-factors, especially at lower resolution, when anisotropic B-factors cannot be determined and when the average B-factor increases.
Responsible Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Value Formation and Market Performance in Healthcare: the Mediating Role of Patient’s Cognitive Engagement
Authors: Kumar Pradeep , Dwivedi Yogesh K. , Anand Ambuj
Published: April 2021

The Healthcare sector has been at the forefront of the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. Owing to the nature of the services and the vulnerability of a large section of end-users, the topic of responsible AI has become the subject of widespread study and discussion. We conduct a mixed-method study to identify the constituents of responsible AI in the healthcare sector and investigate its role in value formation and market performance. The study context is India, where AI technologies are in the developing phase. The results from 12 in-depth interviews enrich the more nuanced understanding of how different facets of responsible AI guide healthcare firms in evidence-based medicine and improved patient centered care. PLS-SEM analysis of 290 survey responses validates the theoretical framework and establishes responsible AI as a third-order factor. The 174 dyadic data findings also confirm the mediation mechanism of the patient’s cognitive engagement with responsible AI-solutions and perceived value, which leads to market performance.
Reaction Rate Analysis of Manganese Ore Prereduction in CO-CO2 Atmosphere
Authors: Larssen Trine Asklund , Senk Dieter , Tangstad Merete
Published: April 2021

Variations in energy efficiency and climate gas emissions in production of manganese ferroalloys are largely related to the solid-state reduction of the manganese ores used as raw material in the production. The gas-solid reduction is known to be dependent on the ore characteristics, making information on the factors governing the kinetics crucial. A reaction rate analysis of thermogravimetric data obtained for the reduction of Comilog and Nchwaning manganese ores in CO-CO2 atmosphere was performed. Experimental variables were CO partial pressure, ore particle size, temperature regimes (isothermal/non-isothermal), as well as heating rate for non-isothermal experiments. The effects of particle size, CO-concentration, and temperature on the reaction rates were quantified. It was found that the reduction rate of both ores was proportional to the inverse average particle size. Different sensitivities towards the CO-concentration in the gas feed was determined, where the rate of Comilog-ore was proportional to

$$ p_{\text{CO}}^{0.7} $$

p

CO

0.7

, and Nchwaning to

$$ p_{\text{CO}}^{1.5} $$

p

CO

1.5

. The activation energy of Comilog ore was estimated to be 17 kJ/mol, whereas 63 kJ/mol was found for Nchwaning ore.
The Importance of Intestinal Length in Triglyceride Metabolism and in Predicting the Outcomes of Comorbidities in Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass—a Narrative Review
Authors: Käkelä Pirjo , Rantanen Tuomo , Virtanen Kirsi A.
Published: April 2021

In this narrative review, we will appraise if modification of the length of bypassed small intestine based on measured total small intestinal length could optimize the outcomes of the laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB). We provide a summary of carefully selected studies to serve as examples and to draw tentative conclusions of the effects of LRYGB on remission of comorbidities. As the heterogeneity of the included studies varied in terms of outcomes, type of study, length of the bypassed small intestine, and the follow-up, a common endpoint could not be defined for this narrative article. To achieve efficient metabolic outcomes, it is important to carefully choose the small intestine length excluded from the food passage suited best to each individual patient.

Graphical abstract
Clinical consequences of consecutive self-expanding transcatheter heart valve iterations
Authors: Kroon H. G. , van Gils L. , Ziviello F. , van Wiechen M. P. H. , Ooms J. F. W. , Rahhab Z. , El Faquir N. , Maugenest A.‑M. , Goudzwaard J. A. , Cummins P. , Lenzen M. , Kardys I. , Daemen J. , Mattace-Raso F. , de Jaegere P. P. T. , Van Mieghem N. M.
Published: April 2021

Objective

To compare early clinical outcomes after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) with three consecutive generations of self-expanding valves (SEVs).

Methods

Clinical endpoints of consecutive patients who underwent TAVI with CoreValve, Evolut R or Evolut PRO were included in a prospective database.

Results

TAVI was performed with CoreValve (n = 116), Evolut R (n = 160) or Evolut PRO (n = 92). Evolut R and Evolut PRO showed a tendency towards lower permanent pacemaker implantation (PPI) rates compared to CoreValve (CoreValve 27% vs Evolut R 16% vs Evolut PRO 18%, p = 0.091). By multivariable regression analysis CoreValve had a significantly higher risk for PPI (odds ratio (OR) 2.79, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.31–5.94, p = 0.008) compared to Evolut R, while Evolut R and PRO were similar. Severe paravalvular leakage (PVL) occurred only with CoreValve, but no significant difference was observed in moderate PVL (10% vs 8% vs 6%, p = 0.49). CoreValve had a tendency towards a higher risk for more-than-mild PVL as compared with the Evolut platform (R + PRO) (OR 2.46, 95% CI 0.98–6.16, p = 0.055). No significant differences in all-cause mortality (7% vs 4% vs 1%, p = 0.10), stroke (6% vs 3% vs 2%, p = 0.21) or major vascular complications (10% vs 12% vs 4%, p = 0.14) were observed.

Conclusions

TAVI with self-expanding valves was safe, and device iterations may result in a lower need for PPI. More-than-mild PVL seemed to occur less often with repositionable technology.
Making sense of farmers’ demand for seed of root, tuber and banana crops: a systematic review of methods
Authors: Pircher Thomas , Almekinders Conny J. M.
Published: April 2021

A demand-driven approach is becoming increasingly central in the efforts to improve agricultural research and development. However, the question of how exactly demand is studied usually remains unstated and is rarely discussed. We therefore carried out a systematic review in order to better understand how farmers’ demand for seed in root, tuber and banana seed systems is studied. The review is based on data from a consultation with an expert panel and a structured literature search in the SCOPUS database. Screening the gathered articles resulted in 46 studies on a global scale, fitting the scope of our investigation. Through qualitative analysis and categorization of these studies, we developed a classification scheme according to the types of approaches applied in the retained studies. One group of studies explicitly articulates farmers’ preferences and choices through surveys or engagements in trials, auctions, choice experiments and interviews. Other studies implicitly articulate farmers’ demand by characterising their current use of varieties and seed. We discuss opportunities and limitations in the use of each type of study and we reflect on the body of available literature as a whole. Our conclusion is that a framework is necessary that purposefully combines the existing different methods and that it is necessary to involve stakeholders in a process where demand is articulated. Together, these two steps would characterise existing demands in a more effective and precise way, thus providing better guidance to decision-makers in their reactions pertaining to seed systems.
Clinical features of migraine with onset prior to or during start of combined hormonal contraception: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Merki-Feld Gabriele S. , Sandor Peter S. , Nappi Rossella E. , Pohl Heiko , Schankin Christoph
Published: April 2021

Many studies have described the features of menstrually related migraines but there is a lack of knowledge regarding the features of migraine in combined hormonal contraceptive users (CHC). Hormone-withdrawal migraines in the pill-free period could differ from those in the natural cycle. Gynaecologic comorbidities, like dysmenorrhea and endometriosis, but also depression or a family history might modify the course of migraine. A better understanding of migraine features linked to special hormonal situations could improve treatment. For this prospective cohort study, we conducted telephone interviews with women using a CHC and reporting withdrawal migraine to collect information on migraine frequency, intensity, triggers, symptoms, pain medication, gynaecologic history and comorbidities (n = 48). A subset of women agreed to also document their migraines in prospective diaries. The mean number of migraine days per cycle was 4.2 (± 2.7). Around 50% of these migraines occurred during the hormone-free interval. Migraine frequency was significantly higher in women who suffered from migraine before CHC start (5.0 ± 3.1) (n = 22) in comparison to those with migraine onset after CHC start (3.5 ± 2.1) (n = 26). Menstrually related attacks were described as more painful (57.5%), especially in women with migraine onset before CHC use (72%) (p < 0.02). Comorbidities were rare, except dysmenorrhea. The majority of migraine attacks in CHC users occur during the hormone-free interval. Similar as in the natural cycle, hormone-withdrawal migraines in CHC users are very intense and the response to acute medication is less good, especially in those women, who developed migraine before CHC use.
Sustainable small-scale fisheries markets in the Mediterranean: weaknesses and opportunities
Authors: Penca Jerneja , Said Alicia , Cavallé Marta , Pita Cristina , Libralato Simone
Published: April 2021

Improved access to markets by small-scale fisheries (SSF), as called by Sustainable Development Goal 14b and other global and Mediterranean policy documents, is impeded by the existing organisation of value chains and market structures, which are typically antagonistic to the nature of SSF. This article analyses the markets in the Mediterranean to map the drivers and feedback loops that keep fisheries in an unsustainable trajectory and reviews the key innovations in support of a socially, economically and environmentally sustainable small-scale fishing sector. We show how the current market is dominated by lack of product traceability and underappreciation of the inherent value of SSF products (e.g. local production, freshness, season dependence, quantitatively and culinary varied nature). In addition, due to a lack of organisation and the capacity to act, small-scale fishers are poised to have little to no influence over the price. In what we conceptualise as a response to the negative effects of existing market structures, we identify and classify initiatives that add value to SSF products, but not exclusively. These are the shortening of the value chain, innovation in the distribution channel, diversification in the type of product offered, promotion and education regarding SSF products, label and brand development and the empowerment of SSF communities through improved leadership, ownership, cooperation and coordination. We provide examples of these activities and propose the key types of intervention at various levels of governance to accelerate and capitalise on them in order to accomplish policy goals and achieve a better status of both the oceans and the fishers.
The Oxygen Uptake Plateau—A Critical Review of the Frequently Misunderstood Phenomenon
Authors: Niemeyer Max , Knaier Raphael , Beneke Ralph
Published: April 2021

A flattening of the oxygen uptake–work rate relationship at severe exercise indicates the achievement of maximum oxygen uptake $$\left({\text{VO}}_{2\max } \right)$$

VO

2
max

. Unfortunately, a distinct plateau $$\left( {{{\text{VO}}}_{2} {\text{pl}}} \right)$$

VO
2

pl

at $${{\text{VO}}}_{2\max }$$

VO

2
max

is not found in all participants. The aim of this investigation was to critically review the influence of research methods and physiological factors on the $${{\text{VO}}}_{2} {\text{pl}}$$

VO
2

pl

incidence. It is shown that many studies used inappropriate definitions or methodical approaches to check for the occurrence of a $${{\text{VO}}}_{2} {\text{pl}}$$

VO
2

pl

. In contrast to the widespread assumptions it is unclear whether there is higher $${{\text{VO}}}_{2} {\text{pl}}$$

VO
2

pl

incidence in (uphill) running compared to cycling exercise or in discontinuous compared to continuous incremental exercise tests. Furthermore, most studies that evaluated the validity of supramaximal verification phases, reported verification bout durations, which are too short to ensure that $${{\text{VO}}}_{2\max }$$

VO

2
max

have been achieved by all participants. As a result, there is little evidence for a higher $${{\text{VO}}}_{2} {\text{pl}}$$

VO
2

pl

incidence and a corresponding advantage for the diagnoses of $${{\text{VO}}}_{2\max }$$

VO

2
max

when incremental tests are supplemented by supramaximal verification bouts. Preliminary evidence suggests that the occurrence of a $${{\text{VO}}}_{2} {\text{pl}}$$

VO
2

pl

in continuous incremental tests is determined by physiological factors like anaerobic capacity, $${{\text{VO}}}_{2}$$

VO
2

-kinetics and accumulation of metabolites in the submaximal intensity domain. Subsequent studies should take more attention to the use of valid $${{\text{VO}}}_{2} {\text{pl}}$$

VO
2

pl

definitions, which require a cut-off at ~ 50% of the submaximal $${{\text{VO}}}_{2}$$

VO
2

increase and rather large sampling intervals. Furthermore, if verification bouts are used to verify the achievement of $${{\text{VO}}}_{{2{\text{peak}}}}$$

VO

2
peak

/$${{\text{VO}}}_{2\max }$$

VO

2
max

, it should be ensured that they can be sustained for sufficient durations.
An interpretable prediction method for university student academic crisis warning
Authors: Mingyu Zhai , Sutong Wang , Yanzhang Wang , Dujuan Wang
Published: April 2021

Data-driven techniques improve the quality of talent training comprehensively for university by discovering potential academic problems and proposing solutions. We propose an interpretable prediction method for university student academic crisis warning, which consists of K-prototype-based student portrait construction and Catboost–SHAP-based academic achievement prediction. The academic crisis warning experiment is carried out on desensitization multi-source student data of a university. The experimental results show that the proposed method has significant advantages over common machine learning algorithms. In terms of achievement prediction, mean square error (MSE) reaches 24.976, mean absolute error (MAE) reaches 3.551, coefficient of determination ($$R^{2}$$

R
2

) reaches 80.3%. The student portrait and Catboost–SHAP method are used for visual analysis of the academic achievement factors, which provide intuitive decision support and guidance assistance for education administrators.
Distribution and diversity of alternate hosts of Maruca vitrata Fabricius in three West African countries
Authors: Addae Prince Christopher , Bruce Y. Anani , Utono Iliyasu M. , Abudulai Mumuni , Traore Fousseni , Ishiyaku Mohammad F. , Adamu Rabiu S. , Seidu Ahmed , Batieno Benoît J. , Nwankwo Onyekachi Francis , Ba Malick N. , Adazebra Gloria A. , Tignegre Jean Baptiste , Dabiré-Binso Clémentine L. , Huesing Joseph E. , Hellmich Richard L. , Pittendrigh Barry R. , Tamò Manuele
Published: April 2021

The evolution of resistance to theBacillus thuringiensis(Bt) toxins by insect pests is a major threat toBttechnology. However, the rate of resistance can be slowed with appropriate integrated insect resistance management (IRM) strategies. Surveys were conducted to identify alternate host species forMaruca vitrata(commonly called the legume pod borer orMaruca) that could serve as refuges for Pod-Borer Resistant (PBR) cowpea in three West African countries (Ghana, Nigeria, and Burkina Faso). Survey sites included 25 in northern Ghana, 44 in northern Nigeria, and 52 in north-central and southwestern Burkina Faso. Alternate hosts ofMarucaidentified from plant species belonging to theFabaceaefamily that showed signs ofMarucadamage on cowpea tissues were collected and dissected. Larvae that were found during these dissections were reared to adult moths in the laboratory then identified to species. The alternate host plants including species ofCrotolaria,Sesbania,Tephrosia, andVignawere the most frequently encountered among sites and locations. Flowering and podding of these plants overlapped with flowering and podding of the nearby (~200 m) cowpea crop. Abundance of these wild hosts and overlapping flowering patterns with the cowpea crop in most locations have the potential to sustain ample numbers ofBtsusceptibleMarucathat will mate with possible resistantMarucaand deter resistance development. Further quantitative studies, however, are required from each location to determine if actualMarucaproduction from alternate hosts is sufficient for a PBR IRM strategy. If verified, this approach would be compatible with the high dose/refuge IRM strategy that includes alternate hosts and non-Btcrops as refuges.
An Urban History of China
Authors: Lincoln Toby
Published: April 2021

In this accessible new study, Toby Lincoln offers the first history of Chinese cities from their origins to the present. Despite being an agricultural society for thousands of years, China had an imperial urban civilization. Over the last century, this urban civilization has been transformed into the world's largest modern urban society. Throughout their long history, Chinese cities have been shaped by interactions with those around the world, and the story of urban China is a crucial part of the history of how the world has become an urban society. Exploring the global connections of Chinese cities, the urban system, urban governance, and daily life alongside introductions to major historical debates and extracts from primary sources, this is essential reading for all those interested in China and in urban history.
Opposing the Imam
Authors: Husayn Nebil
Published: April 2021

Islam's fourth caliph, Ali, can be considered one of the most revered figures in Islamic history. His nearly universal portrayal in Muslim literature as a pious authority obscures centuries of contestation and the eventual rehabilitation of his character. In this book, Nebil Husayn examines the enduring legacy of the nawasib, early Muslims who disliked Ali and his descendants. The nawasib participated in politics and scholarly discussions on religion at least until the ninth century. However, their virtual disappearance in Muslim societies has led many to ignore their existence and the subtle ways in which their views subsequently affected Islamic historiography and theology. By surveying medieval Muslim literature across multiple genres and traditions including the Sunni, Mu'tazili, and Ibadi, Husayn reconstructs the claims and arguments of the nawasib and illuminates the methods that Sunni scholars employed to gradually rehabilitate the image of Ali from a villainous character to a righteous one.
Posthumanist World Englishes
Authors: Wee Lionel
Published: April 2021

A posthumanist approach problematizes the separateness and centrality of humans in understanding the world around us. Posthumanism does not deny the role of humans but questions the assumption that it is human activity and agency that should be given pride of place in any analysis of social activity. This carries important and interesting implications for the study of World Englishes, some of which are explored in this Element. Sections 3 and 4, respectively, explore posthumanism in relation to two specific topics in World Englishes, creativity and language policy. These topics have been chosen because they allow us to see the contributions that posthumanism can make to a micro-level (creativity) as well as macro-level (language policy) topic.
Dietary patterns of 5-year-old children and their correlates: findings from a multi-ethnic Asian cohort
Authors: Sugianto Ray , Wong Shu Fang , Toh Jia Ying , Tint Mya Thway , Colega Marjorelee T. , Lee Yung Seng , Yap Fabian Kok Peng , Shek Lynette Pei-Chi , Tan Kok Hian , Godfrey Keith M. , Chong Yap Seng , Tai Bee Choo , Chong Mary Foong-Fong
Published: April 2021

There is limited data on the dietary patterns of 5-year-old children in Asia. The study examined childhood dietary patterns and their maternal and child correlates in a multi-ethnic Asian cohort. Based on caregiver-reported 1-month quantitative FFQ of 777 children from the Growing Up in Singapore Towards healthy Outcomes cohort, cluster analysis identified two mutually exclusive clusters. Children in the ‘Unhealthy’ cluster (43·9 %) consumed more fries, processed meat, biscuits and ice cream, and less fish, fruits and vegetables compared with those in the ‘Healthy’ cluster (56·1 %). Children with mothers of lower educational attainment had twice the odds of being assigned to the ‘Unhealthy’ cluster (adjusted OR (95 % CI) = 2·19 (95 % CI 1·49–3·24)). Children of Malay and Indian ethnicities had higher odds of being assigned to the ‘Unhealthy’ cluster (adjusted OR = 25·46 (95 % CI 15·40, 42·10) and 4·03 (95 % CI 2·68–6·06), respectively), relative to Chinese ethnicity. In conclusion, this study identified two dietary patterns in children, labelled as the ‘Unhealthy’ and ‘Healthy’ clusters. Mothers’ educational attainment and ethnicity were two correlates that were associated with the children’s assignments to the clusters. These findings can assist in informing health promotion programmes targeted at Asian children.
The use of alternate vertebral levels to L3 in computed tomography scans for skeletal muscle mass evaluation and sarcopenia assessment in patients with cancer: a systematic review
Authors: Vangelov Belinda , Bauer Judy , Kotevski Damian , Smee Robert I.
Published: April 2021

Body composition measurement using diagnostic computed tomography (CT) scans has emerged as a method to assess sarcopenia (low muscle mass) in oncology patients. Assessment of skeletal muscle mass (SMM) using the cross-sectional area of a single vertebral slice (at lumbar L3) in a CT scan is correlated with whole-body skeletal muscle volume. This method is used to assess CT-defined sarcopenia in patients with cancer, with low SMM effecting outcomes. However, as diagnostic scans are based on tumour location, not all include L3. We evaluated the evidence for the use of alternate vertebral CT slices for SMM evaluation when L3 is not available. Five electronic databases were searched from January 1996 to April 2020 for studies using CT scan vertebral slices above L3 for SM measurement in adults with cancer (solid tumours). Validation with whole-body SMM, rationale for the chosen slice and sarcopenia cut-off values were investigated. Thirty-two studies were included, all retrospective and cross-sectional in design. Cervical, thoracic and lumbar slices were used (from C3 to L1), with no validation of whole-body SMM using CT scans. Alternate slices were used in lung, and head and neck cancer patients. Sarcopenia cut-off values were reported in 75 % of studies, with differing methods, with or without sex-specific values, and a lack of consensus. Current evidence is inadequate to provide definitive recommendations for alternate vertebral slice use for SMM evaluation in cancer patients. Variation in sarcopenia cut-offs warrants more robust investigation, in order for risk stratification to be applied to all patients with cancer.
Iron deficiency is associated with poor prognosis in idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss
Authors: Kurioka T , Sano H , Furuki S , Yamashita T
Published: April 2021

Objective

The effects of iron deficiency on the prognosis of idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss are unclear. This study aimed to investigate the association between serum iron levels and idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss prognosis and its usefulness as an independent prognostic marker for idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss.

Methods

The audiological and haematological data, including hearing recovery and serum iron levels, of 103 patients with idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss evaluated between 2015 and 2018 were retrospectively analysed.

Results

The overall complete recovery rate was 16.5 per cent. Initial higher hearing threshold was associated with poor idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss prognosis. Serum iron levels were significantly higher in the complete recovery group than in the non-complete recovery group (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The possibility of complete recovery from idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss was significantly lower with lower serum iron levels, suggesting that the serum iron level might be a novel prognostic marker for idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss.
Competition Within the Physicians' Services Industry: Osteopaths and Allopaths
Authors: Blackstone Erwin A.
Published: April 2021

Within the physicians' services industry, doctors of osteopathy are the only "full line" competitors of medical doctors. Given the current interest in merger of the two schools of practice, this Article examines the benefits of having an independent osteopathic school. These benefits include: (1) reduction of the monopoly power of medical doctors in malpractice litigation, fee negotiations with third party payors and the formulation of health policy; (2) greater satisfaction of consumer desires; and (3) diversity and innovation in physicians' training and methods of practice. The Article concludes that society has an interest in discouraging merger of the two groups; osteopathy should be maintained as an independent school of practice. To this end, society should carefully consider the impact of legislation and regulatory policies that may have the unintended effect of eliminating osteopathy as an independent competitor.
Reducing Medicaid Expenditures Through Family Responsibility: Critique of a Recent Proposal
Authors: Acford Joanne P.
Published: April 2021

The Massachusetts Department of Public Welfare recently proposed a “Family Responsibility Plan” which would impose a financial obligation upon adult children in the state for the nursing-home care of their parents who receive Medicaid. By examining the Massachusetts plan, this Note seeks to evaluate the viability of a concept of family responsibility, under which adult children contribute to the state Medicaid expenses of their medically indigent parents in nursing homes, as a means of combating the increase in state Medicaid expenditures. The Note examines the legal and policy issues raised by the Massachusetts welfare department's plan in particular, and by the concept of family responsibility in general. The author concludes that alternative methods of cost containment, such as positive financial incentives, would be more appropriate mechanisms for reducing state Medicaid expenditures than family—that is, adult child—responsibility plans.
Caring for a person with dementia during the COVID-19 pandemic: a qualitative study with family care-givers
Authors: Cipolletta Sabrina , Morandini Benedetta , Tomaino Silvia Caterina Maria
Published: April 2021

The aim of this study was to explore the experience of family care-givers of people with dementia during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Veneto region of Italy to understand how and to what extent the emergency has affected care-givers’ lives and care routines. Twenty adult children of an ill person were interviewed via phone and video call, in adherence with the restrictions against COVID-19. Thematic analysis showed five main themes: the care-giver's experience, the care recipient's experience, relationships with care recipients, changes in the care routine and resources. Results pointed out that the time needed in the care routine and everyday activities increased during the pandemic, together with the need to find alternatives to physical activity at home. Depending on one's personal experience of COVID-19 and approach to preventive rules, the availability of resources, and formal and informal support, three main approaches to care were identified: apprehensive, mindful and fatalistic ones. The pandemic amplified the differences among these already-existing approaches to care as well as the typical challenges and difficulties experienced by family care-givers, and it resulted in an increased burden connected to practical difficulties, emotional stress and difficulties in reaching for help. These results underline the importance of strengthening the external support network for older people to help family care-givers, especially during emergencies.
The influence of orthography in second language phonological acquisition
Authors: Hayes-Harb Rachel , Barrios Shannon
Published: April 2021

We provide an exhaustive review of studies in the relatively new domain of research on the influence of orthography on second language (L2) phonological acquisition. While language teachers have long recognized the importance of written input—in addition to spoken input—on learners’ development, until this century there was very little systematic research investigating the relationship between orthography and L2 phonological acquisition. Here, we review studies of the influence of written input on L2 phonological awareness, phoneme perception, the acquisition of phonological processes and syllable structure, and the pronunciation and recognition of words. We elaborate the variables that appear to moderate written input effects: (1) whether or not a novel phonological contrast is systematically represented by the L2 writing system (systematicity); (2) whether some or all of the L2 graphemes are familiar to learners from the L1 (familiarity); (3) for familiar graphemes, whether the native language (L1) and the L2 employ the same grapheme-phoneme correspondences (congruence); and (4) the ability of learners to perceive an auditory contrast that is systematically represented in writing (perceptibility). We conclude by calling for future research on the pedagogical implications of this body of work, which has thus far received very little attention by researchers.
Supplementation of granulosa cells conditioned medium with pyruvate and testosterone could improve early follicular development in cultured 1-day-old mouse ovaries
Authors: Atrabi Mohammad Jafari , Alborzi Parimah , Akbarinejad Vahid , Fathi Rouhollah
Published: April 2021

In vitro activation of primordial follicles could serve as a safe method to preserve fertility in patients with cancer subjected to ovarian tissue cryopreservation during oncotherapy, however the culture medium for this purpose requires to be optimized. Granulosa cell conditioned medium (GCCM) has been recognized to enhance primordial follicle activation and the present study was conducted to understand whether addition of pyruvate, a combination of insulin, transferrin and selenium (ITS) or testosterone to GCCM could improve its efficiency in this regard. To this end, 1-day-old mouse ovaries were cultured in four different media including CON (control; containing GGCM only), PYR (containing GCCM plus pyruvate), ITS (containing GCCM plus ITS) or TES (containing GCCM plus testosterone) for 11 days. Furthermore, follicular dynamics and gene expression of factors involved in follicular development were assessed using histological examination and RT-PCR, respectively, on days 5 and 11 of culture. Pyruvate decreased follicular activation, but it enhanced the progression of follicles to the primary stage. Moreover, it upregulated Bmp15 and Cx37 (P < 0.05). In the ITS group, activation of follicles was not affected and total number of follicles was reduced by day 11 of culture. Additionally, ITS downregulated Pi3k, Gdf9, Bmp15 and Cx37 (P < 0.05). Although testosterone did not affect primordial follicle activation, it enhanced the development of follicles up to the preantral stage (P < 0.05). Furthermore, testosterone inhibited the expression of Pten but stimulated the expression of Gdf9 and Cx37 (P < 0.05). In conclusion, the present study revealed that inclusion of pyruvate and testosterone into GCCM could enhance the early development of follicles in cultured 1-day-old mouse ovaries.
Antioxidant activities and lipid peroxidation status in human follicular fluid: age-dependent change
Authors: Debbarh H. , Louanjli N. , Aboulmaouahib S. , Jamil M. , Ahbbas L. , Kaarouch I. , Sefrioui O. , Cadi R.
Published: April 2021

Maternal age is a significant factor influencing in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes. Oxidative stress (OS) is one of the major causes of age-related cellular and molecular damage. The purpose of this work was to investigate the correlation between maternal age with intrafollicular antioxidants and OS markers in follicular fluid (FF), and also to determine the OS status in patients of advanced age. This study was a prospective study including 201 women undergoing IVF whose age was between 24 and 45 years old. FF samples were obtained from mature follicles at the time of oocyte retrieval. After treatment of FF, lipid peroxidation levels (MDA) and enzyme activities such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione reductase (GR) and glutathione (GSH) level were evaluated using spectrophotometry. The results indicated that the age cutoff point for increasing the MDA level was fixed at 37 years, allowing the study to be differentiated into two age groups. Group I included patients whose age was less than 37 years, and group II included patients whose age was greater than or equal 37 years. Statistical analysis revealed that MDA and GSH levels and GR activity were significantly higher in group II compared with group I. The SOD and CAT activities were significantly less in group II compared with group I. We concluded that from 37 years old a reproductive ageing was accompanied by a change in the antioxidant pattern in FF that impaired reactive oxygen species scavenging efficiency.
EFFICIENT COMPUTATION OF COORDINATE-FREE MODELS OF FLAME FRONTS
Authors: AKERS B. F. , AMBROSE D. M.
Published: April 2021

We present an efficient, accurate computational method for a coordinate-free model of flame front propagation of Frankel and Sivashinsky. This model allows for overturned flames fronts, in contrast to weakly nonlinear models such as the Kuramoto–Sivashinsky equation. The numerical procedure adapts the method of Hou, Lowengrub and Shelley, derived for vortex sheets, to this model. The result is a nonstiff, highly accurate solver which can handle fully nonlinear, overturned interfaces, with similar computational expense to methods for weakly nonlinear models. We apply this solver both to simulate overturned flame fronts and to compare the accuracy of Kuramoto–Sivashinsky and coordinate-free models in the appropriate limit.
EVERYDAY RACISM IN SOCIAL SCIENCE RESEARCH
Authors: Bourabain Dounia , Verhaeghe Pieter-Paul
Published: April 2021

Since the 1980s, everyday racism has gained ground within the social sciences. However, the theory of everyday racism has not been properly adopted and, consequently, varies across different research fields. The main goal of this study is to improve the scientific rigor within research on everyday racism in the human and social sciences. Following a review of the ground-breaking work of Philomena Essed, three main components in everyday racism literature are theoretically distilled and conceptualized: (1) repetitiveness and familiarity, (2) racism and (3) the interdependent link between micro-interactions and macro-structures. This is followed by a critical assessment ofwhateveryday racism means andhowit is assessed in research today, by performing a systematic electronic review of qualitative-methods papers. We make three suggestions towards a more complete and sophisticated understanding of everyday racism. Firstly, the concepts of everyday racism and microaggressions need to be disconnected from each other. Secondly, research should focus more on the symbiotic relation between micro-interactions and macro-structures and should also identify relevant situational features at the spatial meso-level. Lastly, it is important to be cautious of the pitfall of cultural determinism that is still a popular perspective in today’s field of (everyday) racism.