bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Single institute experience of intraoperative radiation therapy in early-stage breast cancer
Authors: Chi Mau-Shin , Ko Hui-Ling , Chen Chang-Cheng , Hsu Chung-Hsien , Chen Liang-Kuang , Cheng Fiona Tsui-Fen
Published: November 2021

Intraoperative radiation therapy (IORT) is an alternative to whole breast irradiation in selected early-stage breast cancer patients. In this single institute analysis, we report the preliminary results of IORT given by Axxent Electronic Brachytherapy (eBT) system.

Patients treated with lumpectomy and eBT within a minimum follow-up period of 12 months were analyzed. Eligible criteria include being over the age of 45, having unifocal invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) or ductal carcinoma in situ <3 cm in diameter, not exhibiting lymph node involvement on preoperative images, and negative sentinel lymph node biopsy. The eBT was given by preloaded radiation plans to deliver a single fraction of 20 Gray (Gy) right after lumpectomy.

From January 2016 to April 2019, a total of 103 patients were collected. There were 78 patients with IDC and 25 with ductal carcinoma in situ. At a mean follow-up time of 31.1 months (range, 14.5–54.0 months), the local control rate was 98.1%. Two IDC patients had tumor recurrences (1 local and 1 regional failure). Post-IORT radiotherapy was given to 4 patients. There were no cancer related deaths, no distant metastases, and treatment side effects greater than grade 3 documented.

We report the largest single institute analysis using the eBT system in Taiwan. The low recurrence and complication rates at a 31.1 month follow-up time support the use of the eBT system in selected early-stage breast cancer patients.
Diagnostic value of microRNA-155 in active tuberculosis
Authors: Li Xiaoyan , He Jie , Wang Guodong , Sun Jian
Published: November 2021

Background:

Tuberculosis (TB) is a preventable and treatable disease, but the increased mortality and morbidity associated with TB continues to be a leading cause of death globally. MicroRNA (miRNA)-155 has been recognized as a marker of many lung diseases. However, the effectiveness of this marker for diagnosing TB remains unclear.

Methods:

A detailed search (updated on February 6, 2021) of literature published in the Wanfang database, EMBASE, PubMed, CNKI, and Cochrane Library was conducted to identify eligible studies suitable for inclusion in the current research. The positive likelihood ratio, negative likelihood ratio, specificity, area under the curve, sensitivity, and diagnostic odds ratio were used to investigate the diagnostic potential of miRNA-155.

Results:

A total of 122 studies related to active TB, which completely complied with the inclusion and exclusion criteria of our meta-analysis, were included. The overall results suggested a moderately high diagnostic accuracy and efficacy of miRNA-155, with a specificity of 0.85 (95% confidence interval = 0.77–0.91) and sensitivity of 0.87 (95% confidence interval = 0.76–0.93). The result based on dysregulated status demonstrated that the upregulated group yielded better accuracy and efficacy than the downregulated group. Notably, the accuracy and efficacy of miRNA-155 in pediatric TB were higher than those in adult TB. The results showed that the accuracy and efficacy of miRNA-155 in children were higher than those in adults.

Conclusion:

The results of the meta-analysis suggested that miRNA-155 could serve as an effective biomarker for identifying active TB.
Vagus nerve stimulation for upper limb motor impairment after ischemic stroke
Authors: Xie Yu-lei , Wang Shan , Wu Qing , Chen Xin
Published: November 2021

Background:

Upper limb motor impairment is a common complication following stroke. Although few treatments are used to enhance motor function, still approximately 60% of survivors are left with upper limb motor impairment. Several studies have investigated vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) as a potential technique for upper limb function. However, the efficacy and safety of VNS on upper limb motor function after ischemic stroke have not been systematically evaluated. Therefore, a meta-analysis based on randomized controlled trial will be conducted to determine the efficacy and safety of VNS on upper limb motor function after ischemic stroke.

Method:

We searched PUBMED, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure Library (CNKI), and Wan Fang Database until April 1, 2021.

Results:

Six studies consisting of 234 patients were included in the analysis. Compared with control group, VNS improved upper limb function via Fugl-Meyer Assessment-Upper Extremity (mean difference = 3.26, 95% confidence interval [CI] [2.79, 3.74], P < .00001) and Functional Independence Measurement (mean difference = 6.59, 95%CI [5.77, 7.41], P < .00001), but showed no significant change on Wolf motor function test (standardized mean difference = 0.31, 95%CI [–0.15, 0.77], P = .19). The number of adverse events were not significantly different between the studied groups (risk ratio = 1.05, 95%CI [0.85, 1.31], P = .64).

Conclusion:

VNS resulted in improvement of motor function in patients after ischemic stroke, especially in the sub-chronic stage. Moreover, compared with implanted VNS, transcutaneous VNS exhibited greater efficacy in poststroke patients. Based on this meta-analysis, VNS could be a feasible and safe therapy for upper limb motor impairment.
Postoperative bile leakage caused by intrahepatic duct injury during right hemicolectomy
Authors: Lee Jaram , Song Ook , Park Hyeong-Min , Lee Soo Young , Kim Chang Hyun , Kim Hyeong Rok
Published: November 2021

Introduction:

Bile peritonitis is one of the rare complications that can occur after cholecystectomy or hepatectomy. It is associated with high mortality, prolonged hospital stay, and increased cost. We herein report 2 cases of bile leakage as a postoperative complication of right hemicolectomy.

Patient concerns:

Two patients underwent a right hemicolectomy for colon cancer. Both patients had a history of cholecystectomy, and intrahepatic bile duct dilatation was observed in preoperative imaging study. During surgery, adhesiolysis was performed between the liver and the hepatic flexure of the colon due to adhesion in that area.

Diagnosis:

Postoperatively, bile fluid was drained via an intraabdominal drainage tube. Both cases required surgical intervention to explore the origin of the leakage. In both cases, the anastomosis was intact, and the injury of the intrahepatic bile duct just beneath the liver surface was the origin of bile leakage.

Interventions:

Suture ligation, irrigation, and drainage were performed in both patients.

Outcomes:

There was no more bile leakage after reoperation, and both patients were discharged in good health after antibiotics treatment.

Conclusion:

Although very rare, bile leakage due to intrahepatic duct injury can occur after right hemicolectomy in patients with a history of cholecystectomy and intrahepatic duct dilatation. It is necessary to consider the possibility of bile duct injury and anastomotic leakage if bile leakage is suspected after right hemicolectomy.
Anisocoria after scopolamine transdermal patch contamination
Authors: Joo Jin-Ho
Published: November 2021

Rationale:

We report a case of anisocoria that occurred after contamination with a scopolamine transdermal patch, and introduce a diagnostic approach for anisocoria patients.

Patient concerns:

A 35-year-old woman with no past ophthalmologic history presented to the ophthalmology department complaining of a dilated pupil in the right eye. Corrected visual acuities was 20/20 in both eyes, and the intraocular pressures were 20 and 18 mm Hg in the right and left eye, respectively. The anterior chambers in both eyes were unremarkable on slit-lamp examination. The pupil size was 5.0 mm in the right eye and 2.0 mm in the left eye, and the extraocular muscles of both eyes were intact.

Diagnosis:

The patient neither did present with facial anhidrosis nor did she present with ptosis. Furthermore, as we did not observe dilatation lag in the smaller pupil, we applied 1% apraclonidine in the left eye in order to rule out Horner syndrome and did not observe dilatation of the pupil. We then applied 0.125% and 1% pilocarpine to exclude oculomotor nerve palsy; however, it could not be ruled out as constriction of pupil to 3.1 mm in the right eye was observed after applying 1% pilocarpine. Moreover, upon further investigation, we discovered that the patient had a scopolamine transdermal patch applied for 2 days prior to the clinic visit.

Interventions:

Artificial tears were administered and the patient was observed and monitored.

Outcomes:

The pupil size in the right eye gradually decreased to 4.5 mm on the second day of observation and to 3.6 mm on the fourth day of observation.

Lessons:

A detailed history of the use of medications such as scopolamine patches in patients with unilateral dilated pupils without vision loss is of utmost importance. We report the exclusion of important diseases using pilocarpine and apraclonidine hydrochloride. It was confirmed that improvement naturally occurs over time.
Multiple organ failure leading to death after ingestion of Caltha palustris
Authors: Lee Keun Taek , Sung Won Young
Published: November 2021

Rationale:

Studies have previously reported misidentifying Caltha palustris (C. palustris) as Ligularia fischeri and its subsequent ingestion leading to abdominal pain and gastrointestinal symptoms, which are alleviated immediately. Bradycardia and hypotension may persist for several days, and an infusion of dopamine can restore a healthy state without complications. We report a case of C. palustris poisoning with protein-losing enteropathy that has not been reported previously. The patient died of multiple organ failure, and exhibited more severe clinical deterioration than previous cases due to prolonged shock.

Patient concerns:

A 70-year-old woman was admitted to the emergency department (ED) with complaints of epigastric pain, vomiting, and diarrhea after ingestion of a poisonous plant presumed to be C. palustris. The patient presented with bradycardia and hypotension after ED admission, and vasopressor infusion improved bradycardia but not hypotension, while the patient complained of severe epigastric pain.

Diagnoses:

Abdominal computed tomography showed luminal distention and edematous thickening of the entire stomach lining, as well as small and large intestinal wall edema, indicating severe gastritis and enterocolitis. The laboratory test results suggested severe hypoalbuminemia, while the arterial blood gas analyses showed a continuous increase in metabolic acidosis.

Interventions:

As plant poisoning was suspected, activated charcoal was administered to the patient, followed by administration of vasopressors and other conservative therapies. Continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) was used for metabolic acidosis of increasing severity.

Outcomes:

Despite the administration of vasopressors and other conservative therapies, the state of shock persisted, and metabolic acidosis did not improve even after CRRT. Ultimately, the patient died of multiple organ failure.

Lessons:

For many poisonous wild plants, the precise profile of toxic compounds and mechanisms of action remain to be identified; when there is insufficient literature reporting on suspected plant poisoning, the medical personnel providing the treatment should consider the various side effects that differ from the reported ones and the possibility of more severe clinical progress and poor prognosis.
Favorable effects of burosumab on tumor-induced osteomalacia caused by an undetectable tumor
Authors: Oe Yuki , Kameda Hiraku , Nomoto Hiroshi , Sakamoto Keita , Soyama Takeshi , Cho Kyu Yong , Nakamura Akinobu , Iwasaki Koji , Abo Daisuke , Kudo Kohsuke , Miyoshi Hideaki , Atsumi Tatsuya
Published: November 2021

Rationale:

Tumor-induced osteomalacia (TIO) is curable by tumor resection, but detection of the tumor can be challenging. Overproduction of fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) by the tumor causes hypophosphatemia and consequently induces inappropriate bone turnover. Conventionally oral phosphate supplementation was the only treatment for TIO, but had risks of hypercalciuria and nephrocalcinosis. Burosumab, a human monoclonal anti-FGF23 antibody, was recently post-marketed in Japan against for FGF23-related hypophosphatemia. Herein, we present a case of TIO with undetectable tumor that was successfully treated with burosumab.

Patient concerns:

A 47-year-old woman was forced to use a wheelchair because of pain in both feet.

Diagnosis:

Laboratory findings showed hypophosphatemia, elevated bone markers, and high serum FGF23 without renal tubular defects. Imaging studies revealed bone atrophy in the feet, decreased bone density, and multiple pseudofractures in the talar, sacral, and L5 vertebral regions. After excluding drug-induced and hereditary osteomalacia, we diagnosed her as TIO.

Interventions:

Comprehensive imaging studies and stepwise venous sampling failed to localize the tumor, and we started to administer subcutaneous burosumab.

Outcomes:

After administration of burosumab, her serum phosphate was normalized without phosphate supplementation within 2 months. Improvement of pseudofractures, relief of pain evaluated by a visual analog scale, and normalization of bone biomarkers were observed. The patient was able to stand by herself after 6 months administration of burosumab.

Lessons:

This is the first report in clinical practice to demonstrate favorable effects of burosumab, including not only normalization of serum phosphate but also improvements of pseudofractures and subjective pain, in a patient with TIO and undetectable tumor.
Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura complicated with acute aortic dissection
Authors: Huang Mei-Juan , Deng Jin-Niu , Gao Li-Li , Zhou Jian-Feng
Published: November 2021

Rationale:

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is a critical thrombotic microangiopathy involving multiple organs. To the best of our knowledge, there are no reports of TTP complicated by acute aortic dissection.

Patient concerns:

We herein described a 53-year-old male with TTP who did not have a significant medical history. After immediate plasma exchange and glucocorticoid therapy, the patient's clinical condition improved. However, the patient suddenly experienced chest pain with elevated blood pressure.

Diagnoses:

Computed tomography angiography suggested acute type B aortic dissection.

Interventions:

The patient was immediately transferred to the cardiac aortic surgery department for thoracic aortic endovascular repair.

Outcomes:

The patient was discharged after successful thoracic aortic endovascular repair. Unfortunately, 3 months later, the patient experienced chest and back pain at home and died suddenly, possibly due to the recurrence of aortic dissection.

Lessons:

Even if patients have no identifiable risk factors, physicians should be aware of this rare and life-threatening acute complication of TTP, which may have multiple causes, including preexisting connective tissue disease, abnormal blood pressure fluctuations, and increased risk of hemorrhage. Early identification and timely treatment of acute aortic dissection are critical for improving prognosis.
Percutaneous endoscopic necrosectomy in a patient with emphysematous pancreatitis
Authors: Lee Shin Hee , Paik Kyu-hyun , Kim Ji Chang , Park Won Suk
Published: November 2021

Rationale:

Emphysematous pancreatitis, a rare complication of acute necrotizing pancreatitis with a high mortality rate, is associated with gas-forming bacteria. When using the step-up approach for treating emphysematous pancreatitis, it is preferable to delay drainage interventions for 4 weeks. However, percutaneous drainage may be necessary, even in the early phase of acute pancreatitis, for a patient whose sepsis deteriorates despite optimal medical management. Percutaneous drainage can then be followed by endoscopic necrosectomy through the percutaneous tract.

Patient concerns:

A 52-year-old man was transferred to our hospital for treatment of sepsis and multiorgan failure associated with emphysematous pancreatitis.

Diagnosis:

An abdominal computed tomography scan had shown pancreatic and peripancreatic necrosis, along with extensive gas bubbles.

Interventions:

Despite optimal medical management, the patient's condition continued to deteriorate, and it became necessary to insert 2 percutaneous catheter drainages (PCDs), even though the patient was still in the early phase of pancreatitis. Each PCD was upsized and irrigated with sterile saline by an interventional radiologist twice a week. The infected necrosis around the tail of the pancreas was completely resolved after PCD. However, PCD through the transperitoneal route did not resolve necrosis around the pancreatic head. Following the PCDs, percutaneous pancreatic necrosectomy using an ultra-slim upper endoscope was performed, after which the patient recovered quickly and was discharged.

Outcomes:

Follow-up computed tomography was performed 12 weeks after the patient was discharged, and it showed complete resolution of the walled-off necrosis. The patient's condition improved without any fluid collection or complications.

Lessons:

PCD can be used in the early phase of emphysematous pancreatitis for patients who continue to deteriorate due to sepsis. This can easily be followed, if necessary, by percutaneous pancreatic necrosectomy using an ultra-slim endoscope.
Maternal deaths among patients with cancer in the United States
Authors: Chen Ying , Zheng Yongqiang , Yu Kaixu , Wu Bian
Published: November 2021

Our objective was to characterize the risks of maternal deaths in cancer patients compared to the general population using a large population-based cohort.

Female patients with a cancer first diagnosed at ages 15 to 39 years between 2000 and 2016 (N = 240,561) from the surveillance, epidemiology, and end results database were extracted, among which 165 maternal deaths were observed.

We found Hispanic ethnic groups, advanced cancer stage, receiving chemotherapy were associated with a higher risk of maternal deaths compared to the general the United States population. Patients with cancers of the respiratory system were at the highest risk of maternal deaths, followed by cancers of the digestive system, and hematological malignancies.
Private High School Reopened—COVID Mitigation and Clinical Surveillance Using an Internet Application
Authors: Bellin Eran , Elkin Avigayil H. , Stiefel Laurence , Shteingart Lea , Infield Mark , Nemetski Sondra Maureen
Published: November 2021

Context:

Recommendations for COVID-safe, in-person, high school education have included masks and distancing between students but do not describe a scalable surveillance solution to rapidly identify and mitigate disease prevalence or exposure.

Methods:

Through an Internet application, all school participants reported symptoms, illness, or exposure daily. Physician-supervised follow-up interviews were reviewed and recorded in daily rounds. Students and faculty were allowed or prohibited to enter school based on the results.

Results:

From August 30, 2020, until April 13, 2021, a high school in Bergen County, New Jersey (an epicenter of high COVID prevalence), with 889 students and 214 faculty members, staff, and volunteers, generated 1497 assessments. Reasons for initial evaluation included 48 (3%) participants with positive COVID tests, 520 (34%) COVID-exposed, 178 (12%) exposed to someone with symptoms and unknown COVID status, 208 (14%) subjects with symptoms themselves, 525 (35%) exposed to a high-risk geography or air travel, and 12 (1%) contacts of a contact. Of the 61 subjects ultimately diagnosed with COVID, the sources of infection were 36 (57%) home exposure, 16 (27%) confirmed nonschool sources, 8 (13%) unknown, 1 (2%) travel to a high-risk area, and only one potential case of in-school transmission.

Conclusions:

Masks, distance, and aggressive contact tracing supported by an Internet application with consistent application of quarantine protocols successfully permitted in-school education without COVID spread in a high prevalence environment. This finding remains important to guide safety measures should vaccine-resistant strains—or new pandemics—challenge us in the future.
Epidemiology of Coronavirus Disease 2019 at a County Jail—Alameda County, California, March 2020-March 2021
Authors: Marusinec Rachel , Brodie Daniel , Buhain Sonal , Chawla Colleen , Corpuz John , Diaz Jennifer , Durbin Michael , Moss Nicholas , Okada Reiko , Sanchez Yesenia , Watkins-Tartt Kimi , Yette Emily , Chitnis Amit S.
Published: November 2021

Context:

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) incidence rates are 2- to 5-fold higher among persons incarcerated in the United States than in the general population.

Program or Policy:

We describe an outbreak investigation of COVID-19 at a jail (jail A) in Alameda County during March 2020-March 2021.

Implementation:

To prevent COVID-19 cases among incarcerated persons and employees, staff at jail A and the county public health department worked to develop and recommend infection control measures implemented by jail A including, but not limited to, face covering use among incarcerated persons and staff; cohorting incarcerated persons at a higher risk of severe COVID-19 in dedicated housing units; quarantining all newly detained individuals for 14 days; and offering testing for all symptomatic incarcerated persons, newly incarcerated persons at day 2 and day 10, and all persons who resided in a housing unit where a COVID-19 case was detected.

Evaluation:

A total of 571 COVID-19 cases were detected among incarcerated persons at jail A during March 2020-March 2021, which represented a total incidence of 280 per 1000 population, 5 times higher than the rate in Alameda County. Of the 571 cases among incarcerated persons, 557 (98%) were male; 415 (73%) were aged 18 to 40 years; 249 (44%) were Latino; and 180 (32%) were African American; 354 (62%) were not symptomatic; and 220 (39%) had no comorbidities. Less than 2% of infected incarcerated persons were hospitalized, and no deaths were reported.

Discussion:

COVID-19 disproportionately impacted persons incarcerated at jail A, with higher numbers among Latinos and African Americans. Implementation of COVID-19 infection control and testing measures, and collaboration between public health, law enforcement, and health care providers may have, in part, led to reductions in morbidity and mortality associated with COVID-19 at jail A.
Sanguibacter suaedae sp. nov., isolated from the root of Suaeda aralocaspica in north-west PR China
Authors: Ma Qin , Lei Rui-Feng , Li Yu-Qian , Abudourousuli Dilireba , Rouzi Zulihumaer , Aosiman Muyesaier , Liu Fang , Liu Yang-Yang , An Deng-Di , Li Wen-Jun
Published: November 2021

A bacterial strain, designated YZGR15T, was isolated from the root of an annual halophyte Suaeda aralocaspica, collected from the southern edge of the Gurbantunggut desert, north-west PR China. Cells of the isolate were Gram-stain-positive, facultatively anaerobic, irregular rods. Growth occurred at 4–42 °C (optimum, 30–37 °C), at pH 6.0–9.0 (optimum, pH 7.0–7.5) and in the presence of 0–9 % (w/v) NaCl (optimum, 2–5 %). Phylogenetic analysis using 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that strain YZGR15T showed the highest sequence similarity to

Sanguibacter keddieii

(98.27 %), Sanguibacter antarcticus (98.20 %) and

Sanguibacter inulinus

(98.06 %). Results of genome analyses of strain YZGR15T indicated that the genome size was 3.16 Mb, with a genomic DNA G+C content of 71.9 mol%. Average nucleotide identity and digital DNA–DNA hybridization values between strain YZGR15Tand three type strains were in the range of 76.5–77.8 % and 20.0–22.2 %, respectively. Analysis of the cellular component of strain YZGR15T revealed that the primary fatty acids were anteiso-C15 : 0, C16 : 0, C14 : 0 and iso-C16 : 0 and the polar lipids included diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol, three unidentified phospholipids and two unidentified glycolipids. The cell-wall characteristic amino acids were glutamic acid, alanine and an unknown amino acid. The whole-cell sugars for the strain were mannose, ribose, rhamnose, glucose and an unidentified sugar. The predominant respiratory quinone was MK-9(H4). Based on the results of genomic, phylogenetic, phenotypic and chemotaxonomic analyses, strain YZGR15T represents a novel species of the genus

Sanguibacter

, for which the name Sanguibacter suaedae sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is YZGR15T (=CGMCC 1.18691T=KCTC 49659T)
Paralysiella testudinis gen. nov., sp. nov., isolated from the cloaca of a toad-headed turtle (Mesoclemmys nasuta)
Authors: Busse Hans-Jürgen , Kämpfer Peter , Szostak Michael Peter , Rückert Christian , Spergser Joachim
Published: November 2021

A bacterial strain designated 26BT, which had been isolated from the cloaca of a toad-headed turtle, was subjected to a comprehensive taxonomic study. Comparison of 16S rRNA gene sequences demonstrated that strain 26BT is a member of the family

Neisseriaceae

. Based on highest similarity values,

Neisseria animaloris

DSM 21642T (95.15 %),

Alysiella filiformis

ATCC 15532T (95.06 %),

Uruburuella testudinis

07_OD624T (94.71 %),

Uruburuella suis

CCUG 47806T (94.66 %) and

Alysiella crassa

DSM 2578T (94.64 %) were identified as the closest relatives. Average nucleotide identity values based on the blast algorithm (ANIb) indicated that

U. suis

(76.10/76.17 %),

Neisseria shayeganii

871T (74.34/74.51 %),

Stenoxybacter acetivorans

(73.30/73.41 %),

N. animaloris

(72.98/72.80) %,

A. filiformis

(71.14/71.21 %) and

A. crassa

(70.53/71.15 %) are the next closest relatives. Like ANIb, genome-based phylogeny did not suggest the affiliation of strain 26BT with any established genus. The polyamine pattern consisted of the major compounds putrescine, 1,3-diaminopropane and spermidine and the major quinone was ubiquinone Q-8. In the polar lipid profile, diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine and an ornithine lipid were predominant. The fatty acid profile contained predominantly C16 : 1 ω7c, C12 : 0, C14 : 0, C16 : 0 and C12 : 0 3OH. The size of the genome was 2.91 Mbp and the genomic G+C content was 54.0 mol%. Since these data do not demonstrate an unambiguous association with any established genus, we here propose the novel genus Paralysiella with the type species Paralysiella testudinis gen. nov., sp. nov. The type strain is 26BT (=CCM 9137T=LMG 32212T).
Attenuation of antibody titres during 3-6 months after the second dose of the BNT162b2 vaccine depends on sex, with age and smoking as risk factors for lower antibody titres at 6 months
Authors: Nomura Yushi , Sawahata Michiru , Nakamura Yosikazu , Koike Ryousuke , Katsube Otohiro , Hagiwara Koichi , Niho Seiji , Masuda Norihiro , Tanaka Takaaki , Sugiyama Kumiya
Published: November 2021

Objective

We aimed to determine antibody titres at 6 months and their rate of change during 3-6 months after the second dose of the BNT162b2 coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) mRNA vaccine (Pfizer/BioNTech) and to explore clinical variables associated with titres in Japan.

Methods

We enrolled 365 healthcare workers (250 women, 115 men) whose 3-month antibody titres were analyzed in our previous study and whose blood samples were collected 183 ± 15 days after the second dose. Participant characteristics collected previously were used. The relationships of these factors with antibody titres at 6 months and rates of change in antibody titres during 3-6 months were analyzed.

Results

Median age was 44 years. Median antibody titre at 6 months was 539 U/mL. Older participants had significantly lower antibody titres (20s, 752 U/mL; 60s–70s, 365 U/mL). In age-adjusted analysis, smoking was the only factor associated with lower antibody titres. Median rate of change in antibody titres during 3-6 months was −29.4%. The only factor significantly associated with the rate of change in Ab titres was not age or smoking, but sex (women, −31.6%; men, −25.1%).

Conclusion

The most important factors associated with lower antibody titres at 6 months were age and smoking, as at 3 months, probably reflecting their effect on peak antibody titres. However, antibody titres significantly attenuated during 3-6 months in women alone, which reduced the sex difference in antibody titres seen during the first 3 months. Antibody titres may be affected by different factors at different time points.
Adaptive neural-based finite-time attitude synchronization and tracking control of multiple rigid bodies under actuator faults and saturation
Authors: Mihankhah Amin , Doustmohammadi Ali
Published: November 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper, is to solve the problem of finite-time fault-tolerant attitude synchronization and tracking control of multiple rigid bodies in presence of model uncertainty, external disturbances, actuator faults and saturation. It is assumed that the rigid bodies in the formation may encounter loss of effectiveness and/or bias actuator faults.

Design/methodology/approach

For the purpose, adaptive terminal sliding mode control and neural network structure are used, and a new sliding surface is proposed to guarantee known finite-time convergence not only at the reaching phase but also on the sliding surface. The sliding surface is then modified using a proposed auxiliary system to maintain stability under actuator saturation.

Findings

Assuming that the communication topology between the rigid bodies is governed by an undirected connected graph and the upper bounds on the actuators’ faults, estimation error of model uncertainty and external disturbance are unknown, not only the attitudes of the rigid bodies in the formation are synchronized but also they track the time-varying attitude of a virtual leader. Using Lyapunov stability approach, finite-time stability of the proposed control algorithms demonstrated on the sliding phase as well as the reaching phase. The effectiveness of the proposed algorithm is also validated by simulation.

Originality/value

The proposed controller has the advantage that the need for any fault detection and diagnosis mechanism and the upper bounds information on estimation error and external disturbance is eliminated.
Creating firm value, overcoming organizational inertia through the marketing value chain
Authors: Palomino-Tamayo Walter , Timaná Juan S.
Published: November 2021

Purpose

Technology may produce disruptive changes and market turbulence in any industry. Organizational inertia becomes relevant as a factor that adversely affects organizational transformation; this study aims to examine how to overcome it and its consequences to firms.

Design/methodology/approach

The model estimation with seemingly unrelated regression and two-stage least square. The authors build a data set of years 2015–2019 from the Lima Stock Exchange firms to test the hypotheses.

Findings

In this research, using the evolutionary-ecological theory of Hannan and Freeman, the study shows the consequences of organizational inertia on marketing intensity and subsequently on firms' financial results.

Originality/value

This study presents an inter-functional model that links organizational behavior, marketing and finance functions, through the marketing value chain to overcome organizational inertia and create firm value.
Military acceptance of the Internet of Things: a research model
Authors: Saylam Rabia , Ozdemir Abdulkadir
Published: November 2021

Purpose

This study aims to examine the perception of military people regarding the use of a network of various intelligent objects, the Internet of Things (IoT), in the future battlespace.

Design/methodology/approach

A research model that analyzes military acceptance of the IoT is proposed. The model is created by integrating the technology acceptance model and diffusion of innovation theory. Then an empirical study is conducted through a survey, and the proposed hypotheses are tested. The findings are obtained thanks to the structural equation model (SEM), which clearly reveals the overall dependency relationship among independent and dependent variables even when a dependent variable is an independent variable in another relationship.

Findings

The study clearly reveals the significant factors effecting the attitude toward the use of IoT in the military. It also uncovers potential barriers to the adoption of IoT in the military domain. Especially, risk factor seems to have no significant impact on the acceptance of IoT, and also, there seems to be a positive relationship between risk and trust contrary to an expected negative relationship.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first research analyzing the acceptance of IoT in the military domain through hypotheses in a SEM.
Understanding the role of universities in fostering female entrepreneurship in the emerging ecosystem
Authors: Meeralam Eman Ahmed , Adeinat Iman
Published: November 2021

Purpose

In recent years, the trend toward entrepreneurship in the emerging ecosystem has grown such that it has become an important driver of economic growth and prosperity. Against this background, the purpose of this study is to examine the impact of several personal, cultural and social antecedents on female students’ intentions to become entrepreneurs.

Design/methodology/approach

A structural model is used to assess the entrepreneurial intentions of 740 female students enrolled in private and public universities in Saudi Arabia. Through exploratory factor analysis, a set of observables is identified to represent the relationships in the conceptual model, whereas structural equation modeling is used to test the main hypotheses proposed in the study.

Findings

Antecedents of entrepreneurial intention were explored based on the theory of planned behavior. The paper extends this theory by incorporating two additional antecedents, namely, university support and fear of failure. The construct of university support was found to have a significant effect on perceived behavioral control, which, in turn, had a positive impact on the entrepreneurial intentions of female students. Further, the multi-group analysis showed no significant difference between female students’ entrepreneurial intentions in relation to where they were enrolled, i.e. public vs a private university.

Practical implications

Given the relevance of our research to the employment market, this study contributes to efforts to realize Saudi Vision 2030. The results constitute valuable information for policymakers in terms of suggesting steps that can be taken to maximize this population’s contributions to the country’s economy, particularly in regard to the educational opportunities that can support entrepreneurship.

Originality/value

Although the literature includes a wide range of studies addressing university students’ entrepreneurship intentions, only a few address the antecedents involved in decisions to pursue entrepreneurship on the part of students in disciplines other than business. Further, despite Saudi Arabia’s new orientation toward empowering women, considerations of entrepreneurship on the part of Saudi women are almost entirely absent from the literature. To that end, this study provides a much-needed analysis of the extent to which female students in Saudi Arabia at public and private universities intend to become entrepreneurs.
Essential food and nutrition knowledge and skills for primary school children: Australian parents' opinions
Authors: Aydin Gozde , Margerison Claire , Worsley Anthony , Booth Alison
Published: November 2021

Purpose

This paper examines the views of Australian primary school parents regarding the food and nutrition education (FNE) curriculum. Associations with personal values (Universalism and Hedonism) and demographic measures were also explored.

Design/methodology/approach

An online survey was conducted among 787 parents in March 2021. Parents rated the importance of 17 FNE topics. They were also asked about their support for six curriculum improvements and to state their own improvement suggestions.

Findings

Parents viewed the “Effect of food on health” and “Food hygiene” as the most important topics. Three FNE components were derived: (1) food safety and preparation, (2) health and nutrition information, (3) food origins and environmental sustainability. The “Food safety and preparation” component score was associated with both universalism-nature and hedonism values but negatively associated with parental education. The “Health and nutrition information” component score was associated with universalism-nature value and main language spoken at home. Lastly, the “Food origins and environmental sustainability” component score was associated with universalism-nature value. The two personal values, universalism-nature and hedonism, were more strongly associated with parents' views of curriculum topics than parental demographic characteristics. Parents had several criticisms of current FNE, including school food environments not resonating with FNE taught in the classroom and that FNE might increase the risk of eating disorders. They also suggested that the FNE curriculum should support both parents and teachers by providing relevant resources and training.

Originality/value

Australian parents' views of the importance of FNE topics and how to improve FNE in primary schools have been under-examined.
Frontline nurses’ appraisal of organizational attractiveness and the role of management support, interdepartmental collaboration climate and service quality of care
Authors: Slåtten Terje , Lien Gudbrand
Published: November 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the factors related to organizational attractiveness (OA), a concept originating in the strategy of employer branding. Previous research on OA has predominantly adopted the perspective of external applicants. In contrast, the present study takes the perspective of internal and current employees, extending further the scope of studies on OA.

Design/methodology/approach

Quantitative data were collected from a survey consisting of a sample of 164 nurses, all employees of public hospitals. Confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling were used to analyze the data. Furthermore, the indirect effects were tested by mediator analysis.

Findings

Interdepartmental collaboration climate, management support and service quality of care were shown to have a positive effect on OA, with the three factors explaining 45% (R2 = 0.45) of OA. The relationship between management support and OA was found to be mediated through the interdepartmental collaboration climate, and that between the interdepartmental collaboration climate and OA was found to be mediated through the service quality of care.

Originality/value

This study contributes to an understanding of OA from a current employee perspective. Specifically, it reveals how the three factors of interdepartmental collaboration climate, management support and service quality of care influence and shape the perception of current employees (nurses) toward the attractiveness of their organization.
Application of living book service – a brief analysis of cases in Southwest University library
Authors: Li Nan
Published: November 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to strengthen the cultural communication and educational function of the library, bringing newspirits and vitality into the development of the librarianship.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, the practical research on the living book service in university libraries has given concrete cases, the existing problems are analyzed in detail and some suggestions for improvement are extracted when putting forward, which can be used as the reference and be corrected by colleagues and related scholars in the same field.

Findings

There have been many research results on the topic of living book service, but there are few ones with promotional function. Living book service not only satisfies the readers' curiosity and enables them to obtain knowledge and experience they need, but also establishes a good relationship of communication and understanding between “Real Person Books” and readers. It resonates by face-to-face discussion of different life experiences, living experiences or beliefs, and it is also an innovation of the traditional library service mode.

Originality/value

Brand activities are taken as examples, and some thoughts and enlightenment on the living book service in the university library are put forward, helping us to better understand and evaluate the library activities.
Woody plant encroachment and the ecology of vector‐borne diseases
Authors: Loss Scott R. , Noden Bruce H. , Fuhlendorf Samuel D.
Published: November 2021

Vector‐borne diseases (VBDs) impact human and animal health globally, and their ecology and transmission are affected by human‐caused ecosystem and biome transitions. Woody plant encroachment (WPE), a top driver of biome and land cover transitions in grasslands and savannas of the world, greatly changes abiotic conditions, vegetation and animal populations and communities. Although these effects mirror mechanisms by which other ecosystem and land cover changes influence VBD ecology, few studies have evaluated if WPE expands distributions and increases the transmission of VBDs.

We develop a conceptual framework for WPE effects on VBDs by synthesizing key literature on these topics and on impacts of land cover change on diseases broadly. We also present examples of WPE systems from two continents illustrating documented and likely effects on VBD systems, and we outline a prospectus for future research evaluating such effects.

This synthesis highlights the potential for WPE to increase the transmission of VBDs world‐wide. WPE's effects on landscape composition, local vegetation, abiotic conditions, and vector and host resources, interactions and population and community processes, likely impact VBD distributions, transmission and health outcomes. Much additional research is needed on topics like the effects of WPE management on health risks associated with VBDs.

Synthesis and applications. Woody plant encroachment (WPE) is drastically changing grasslands and savannas world‐wide. Its well‐documented influences on abiotic conditions (e.g. temperature and humidity), vegetation and wildlife are having previously underappreciated effects on the ecology of vector‐borne diseases, likely increasing spatial distributions and transmission of diseases. Management to reduce WPE is ongoing in much of the world due to its degradation of ecosystem services like biodiversity, livestock production and water quality and quantity. The ecosystem disservice of elevated disease risk in humans, wildlife and domestic animals should be an additional consideration when making land management and policy decisions related to WPE.
Diversity of archaea and niche preferences among putative ammonia‐oxidizing Nitrososphaeria dominating across European arable soils
Authors: Saghaï Aurélien , Banjeree Samiran , Degrune Florine , Edlinger Anna , García‐Palacios Pablo , Garland Gina , van der Heijden Marcel G. A. , Herzog Chantal , Maestre Fernando T. , Pescador David S. , Philippot Laurent , Rillig Matthias C. , Romdhane Sana , Hallin Sara
Published: November 2021

Archaeal communities in arable soils are dominated by Nitrososphaeria, a class within Thaumarchaeota comprising all known ammonia‐oxidizing archaea (AOA). AOA are key players in the nitrogen cycle and defining their niche specialization can help predicting effects of environmental change on these communities. However, hierarchical effects of environmental filters on AOA and the delineation of niche preferences of nitrososphaerial lineages remain poorly understood. We used phylogenetic information at fine scale and machine learning approaches to identify climatic, edaphic and geomorphological drivers of Nitrososphaeria and other archaea along a 3000 km European gradient. Only limited insights into the ecology of the low‐abundant archaeal classes could be inferred, but our analyses underlined the multifactorial nature of niche differentiation within Nitrososphaeria. Mean annual temperature, C:N ratio and pH were the best predictors of their diversity, evenness and distribution. Thresholds in the predictions could be defined for C:N ratio and cation exchange capacity. Furthermore, multiple, independent and recent specializations to soil pH were detected in the Nitrososphaeria phylogeny. The coexistence of widespread ecophysiological differences between closely related soil Nitrososphaeria highlights that their ecology is best studied at fine phylogenetic scale.
Gryllus testaceus walker (crickets) farming management, chemical composition, nutritive profile, and their effect on animal digestibility
Authors: Shah Assar Ali , Wanapat Metha
Published: November 2021

Commonly, the life span of the cricket is very short, reaching from 60 to 70 days and the average egg production lies within the range of 200–1,500 eggs/female. The female can mate with many males and can produce more fertile eggs. The body composition of an adult cricket on analysis showed that it contains dry matter 33.30%, crude protein 63.30%, crude fat 5.20%, ash 5.60%, calcium 10.10%, phosphorous 7.90%, zinc 215.0 mg/kg, and copper 15.00 mg/kg on dry matter basis, respectively. The dry matter digestibility diet was highest for whole cricket (WC, with legs) and the digestibility of ash, crude fiber, and crude fat was higher than form body cricket (BC, removal of legs). The WC and BC diets had lower feed conversion rates than control diets, and higher nitrogen retention (digestion). It was concluded that crickets are potential feed ingredients for ruminants and non‐ruminants, especially as protein supplements methane emissions are low in vitro and high ash digestibility indicates the ability to reduce mineral deficiencies.
Effect of high pressure homogenization on aggregation, conformation, and interfacial properties of bighead carp myofibrillar protein
Authors: Nie Xiaohua , Liu Haizhen , Yu Ningxiang , Tang Qiwen , Wu Congcong , Meng Xianghe
Published: November 2021

Fish myofibrillar protein is underutilized due to the formation of insoluble aggregates in low salt media. High pressure homogenization (HPH) at 20, 40, and 60 MPa for four passes was applied on bighead carp myofibrillar protein in order to modify its structure and interfacial properties. Changes in aggregation, conformation, solubility, emulsifying and foaming properties of myofibrillar protein were investigated. The aggregates of myofibrillar protein were obviously disrupted by HPH treatment. The size of myofibrillar protein aggregates became smaller and more uniform as the treating pressure increased, accompanied by notable decreases of cross‐sectional height and Rq value in AFM image. Furthermore, the conformation of HPH‐treated myofibrillar protein was unfolded into a flexible and open structure. α‐helix and β‐sheet were converted into β‐turn and random coil. Surface hydrophobicity and zeta potential were strengthened, along with the exposure of sulfhydryl groups onto molecule surface. On the other hand, solubility, emulsifying activity index (EAI) and foaming capacity (FC) of HPH‐treated myofibrillar protein were markedly enhanced with the increasing pressure. Especially after HPH treatment at 60 MPa, myofibrillar protein was almost dissolved in low salt media (solubility 91.86%) with 4.92 fold for EAI and 3.52 fold for FC. But there was little variation in emulsifying and foaming stabilities. These results suggested that HPH treatment has interesting potential to induce the dissociation and unfolding of myofibrillar protein in low salt media, therefore improving its interfacial properties.

Practical Application

Carp myofibrillar protein was treated by high pressure homogenization (HPH). Aggregates of myofibrillar protein were disrupted into smaller size form. Conformation of myofibrillar protein was unfolded into open and loose structure. Emulsifying and foaming capacities of myofibrillar protein were improved. HPH treatment modified the structure and interfacial properties of myofibrillar protein.