bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Motives of mobile payment adoption during COVID-19 pandemic in Sri Lanka: a holistic approach of both customers' and retailers' perspectives
Authors: Jayarathne P.G.S. Amila , Chathuranga B.T.K. , Dewasiri N.J. , Rana Sudhir
Published: October 2022

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the motives of mobile payment adoption from both customers' and retailers' perspectives in Sri Lanka during the COVID-19 pandemic period. It also aims to compare the motives of mobile payment adoption across rural and urban contexts.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employs a mixed-method approach with a concurrent research design. Both a survey of customers and in-depth interviews of managers in retail companies are used.

Findings

The study discloses that Performance Expectancy and Facilitating Conditions (PEFC), Hedonic Motivation (HM) and Perceived Technology Security (PTS) as, respectively, significant motives for customers to adopt mobile payment during this pandemic period. Such findings are confirmed by the four challenges disclose by the retailers. The unfamiliarity of customers, lack of employees' knowledge on mobile payment systems, poor management orientation and lack of computer literacy of customers are the main challenges from the retailers' perspectives. Further, it shows, though PEFC is a common motive, other motives are different across rural and urban.

Practical implications

The findings of the study are helpful for retailers and policymakers. Retailers can develop strategies to enhance mobile payment adoption through PEFC, HM and PTS by giving special attention to the rural community. The main motive possible to use in both rural and urban contexts is PEFC. Further, retailers should take the initiatives to uplift the technological know-how of their employees while inculcating supportive management orientation. Policymakers can use this study to develop policies to enhance the community's familiarity with mobile payment technology and computer literacy.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to investigate motives for adopting mobile payments from both customers' and retailers' perspectives while being the first scrutiny to compare rural and urban scenarios. The use of mixed methods with concurrent research design also contributes to originality.
Winning customers' hearts and minds using DFSS in the insurance industry
Authors: Chang Jing-Rong , Nalluri Venkateswarlu , Chen Long-Sheng , Chen Shih-Hsun
Published: October 2022

Purpose

This study aims to simultaneously examine customer complaints through the proposed novel Design for Six Sigma (DFSS) model which incorporates of creating the new insurance services to win customers' hearts and mind for the insurance industry.

Design/methodology/approach

A novel DFSS research methodology which includes the theory of inventive problem solving (TRIZ), Pugh concept selection, creative product analysis matrix and importance–satisfaction model (I–S Model) was proposed. In addition, a real insurance company case was studied to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed DFSS model.

Findings

The results of a novel DFSS model not only can establish new services, but also can dramatically reduce the cost of resolving customer complaints.

Practical implications

The findings of this study are useful for insurance companies and other related service providers in devising tailored strategies to offer quality and suitable services to their customers.

Originality/value

This study addresses the paucity of research and marketing gaps through the proposed novel DFSS model for the first time in the insurance industry. These study findings would enable researchers and practitioners to formulate strategies for solving customer complaints effectively and develop new services from time to time.
COVID‐19 Induced Income Loss among Migrant Workers: Evidence from Eight Villages of Bihar
Authors: Dhar Niladri Sekhar , Nupur Shreya , Dutta Meghna
Published: October 2022

The COVID‐19 crisis re‐shaped many livelihood options and placed significant burdens on those with precarious incomes exacerbating persisting vulnerabilities, especially among a large section of the migrant population. This group faced a dual threat – both to their livelihood and health. To understand the consequences of this pandemic on the income of the migrant population, a household level survey was conducted in the state of Bihar, India, which is one of the highest migrant‐sending states. We examine the role of differences in the socio‐economic status of migrants and their households in determining the extent of vulnerability caused by the COVID‐19 crisis. Vulnerability is proxied by the income lost by migrants during the lockdown. The results suggest that households with diversified income portfolio, larger landholdings, and those receiving government benefits suffered significantly lower income loss whereas, larger household size and greater distance from town tended to escalate income loss. Additionally, private salaried workers faced higher income loss and an increment in years of education lowers the losses significantly. It is observed that individual‐level characteristics also played a significant role in determining economic loss due to the lockdown. Our findings suggest a binding necessity to actively shape policies considering the financial insecurity of vulnerable migrants at their destination and the household members at the origin.
The surrounding landscape shapes the abundance of Sphaerophoria scripta and Melanostoma mellinum (Diptera: Syrphidae) in Portuguese vineyards
Authors: Madureira Marta , Rodrigues Isabel , Villa María , Pereira José Alberto
Published: October 2022

The intensification of urban and agricultural use in the landscape is the major driver of biodiversity loss and the consequent decrease of ecosystem services provided by insects. Syrphids are important ecosystem service providers, including pest regulation, pollination, and matter decomposition.

Understanding how the surrounding landscape to crops affects syrphids is essential to implementing strategies to reverse the negative effects of the agricultural landscape's simplification.

This study describes the Syrphidae community in Portuguese vineyards and the response of the most abundant species, Sphaerophoria scripta Linnaeus, 1758, and Melanostoma mellinum Linnaeus, 1758, to the landscape composition and configuration within a gradient of distances (500, 1000, and 2000 m) from the sampled vineyards.

The presence of seminatural habitats and other crops in the surrounding landscape increased both species at the largest distance, whereas the presence of artificial territory, olive orchards, and vineyards reduce M. mellinum at some of the buffers.

Increasing seminatural habitats in the vineyards surrounding landscape (2000 m) and, potentially, introducing nature‐friendly practices in the principal crops around vineyards may favour syrphid abundance.
Incidence of persistent postoperative opioid use in patients undergoing ambulatory surgery: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Hamilton G. M. , Ladha K. , Wheeler K. , Nguyen F. , McCartney C. J. L. , McIsaac D. I.
Published: October 2022

The opioid crisis remains a major public health concern. In ambulatory surgery, persistent postoperative opioid use is poorly described and temporal trends are unknown. A population‐based retrospective cohort study was undertaken in Ontario, Canada using routinely collected administrative data for adults undergoing ambulatory surgery between 1 January 2013 and 31 December 2017. The primary outcome was persistent postoperative opioid use, defined using best‐practice methods. Multivariable generalised linear models were used to estimate the association of persistent postoperative opioid use with prognostic factors. Temporal trends in opioid use were examined using monthly time series, adjusting for patient‐, surgical‐ and hospital‐level variables. Of 340,013 patients, 44,224 (13.0%, 95%CI 12.9–13.1%) developed persistent postoperative opioid use after surgery. Following multivariable adjustment, the strongest predictors of persistent postoperative opioid use were pre‐operative: utilisation of opioids (OR 9.51, 95%CI 8.69–10.39); opioid tolerance (OR 88.22, 95%CI 77.21–100.79); and utilisation of benzodiazepines (OR 13.75, 95%CI 12.89–14.86). The time series model demonstrated a small but significant trend towards decreasing persistent postoperative opioid use over time (adjusted percentage change per year −0.51%, 95%CI −0.83 to −0.19%, p = 0.003). More than 10% of patients who underwent ambulatory surgery experienced persistent postoperative opioid use; however, there was a temporal trend towards a reduction in persistent opioid use after surgery. Future studies are needed that focus on interventions which reduce persistent postoperative opioid use.
Carbon ion radiotherapy with pencil beam scanning for hepatocellular carcinoma: Long‐term outcomes from a phase I trial
Authors: Hong Zhengshan , Zhang Wenna , Cai Xin , Yu Zhan , Sun Jiayao , Wang Weiwei , Lin Lienchun , Zhao Jingfang , Cheng Jingyi , Zhang Guangyuan , Zhang Qing , Jiang Guoliang , Wang Zheng
Published: October 2022

This study evaluates the feasibility of the pencil beam scanning technique of carbon ion radiotherapy (CIRT) in the setting of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and establishes the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) calculated by the Local Effect Model version I (LEM‐I) with a dose escalation plan. The escalated relative biological effectiveness‐weighted dose levels included 55, 60, 65, and 70 Gy in 10 fractions. Active motion management techniques were employed, and several measures were applied to mitigate the interplay effect induced by a moving target. CIRT was planned with the LEM‐I‐based treatment planning system and delivered by raster scanning. Offline PET/CT imaging was used to verify the beam range. Offline adaptive replanning was performed whenever required. Twenty‐three patients with a median tumor size of 4.3 cm (range, 1.7–8.5 cm) were enrolled in the present study. The median follow‐up time was 56.1 months (range, 5.7–74.4 months). No dose limiting toxicity was observed until 70 Gy, and MTD had not been reached. No patients experienced radiation‐induced liver disease within 6 months after the completion of CIRT. The overall survival rates at 1, 3, and 5 years were 91.3%, 81.9%, and 67.1% after CIRT, respectively. The local progression‐free survival and progression‐free survival rates at 1, 3 and 5 years were 100%, 94.4%, and 94.4% and 73.6%, 59.2%, and 37.0%, respectively. The raster scanning technique could be used to treat HCC. However, caution should be exercised to mitigate the interplay effect. CIRT up to 70 Gy in 10 fractions over 2 weeks was safe and effective for HCC.
Zum Sammeln und Ausstellen von traditioneller und populärer Volksmusik in Österreich – die Fallstudie Sammlung Wiesenhofer vor dem Hintergrund der internationalen Forschungssituation
Authors: Biedermann Translation: Bernadette
Published: October 2022

Abstrakt:

Der vorliegende Beitrag beschäftigt sich mit Fragen zum Sammeln und Ausstellen des Phänomens Musik am Beispiel einer privaten Sammlung und dem damit in Verbindung stehenden materiellen und immateriellen Kulturerbe. Diese Sammlung bezieht sich auf einen besonderen Musikstil – das Genre der Volksmusik unter besonderer Berücksichtigung der volkstümlichen Musik im alpenländischen Raum in Österreich. Das Ziel des Beitrags ist dabei die Erörterung der Fallstudie vor dem Hintergrund des aktuellen internationalen Forschungsstands zum Phänomen (Volks‐)Musik in Zusammenhang mit dem immateriellen und materiellen Kulturerbe. Im Mittelpunkt der Untersuchung stehen theoretische und praktische Fragestellungen der musealen Dokumentation und Kommunikation, die sich aus dem Fallbeispiel ergeben, in das die Autorin des vorliegenden Beitrags eingebunden war. Der Beitrag zielt des Weiteren darauf auf, den theoretischen Hintergrund durch den Ansatz der Allgemeinen Museologie diskursiv zu erweitern.
Crippled by anxiety: Bondage and freedom in the [Lutheran] concept of anxiety
Authors: Hockenbery Jennifer
Published: October 2022

Today's understanding of anxiety has both a clinical and a quotidian sense. This article sketches how both senses owe a debt to Luther's understanding of the distress that arises from the paradoxical human condition of bondage and freedom of the will. While clinical anxiety must be considered in its own right and treated with the most empirically adequate scientific methods available, readers will find that Luther's pastoral views in regard to anxiety speak to the general feelings of anfectung in our current cultural context.
The Dyskinesia Impairment Scale, Second Edition: Development, construct validity, and reliability
Authors: Vanmechelen Inti , Danielsson Annika , Lidbeck Cecilia , Tedroff Kristina , Monbaliu Elegast , Krumlinde‐Sundholm Lena
Published: October 2022

Aim

To create a shortened, more user‐friendly Second Edition of the Dyskinesia Impairment Scale (DIS‐II) to assess dystonia and choreoathetosis, and evaluate its construct validity and reliability.

Method

Scale development included an online expert meeting (n = 21) and iterative discussions within the research group (n = 6). A Rasch measurement model analysis on DIS scores from individuals with dyskinetic cerebral palsy or inherited/idiopathic dystonia (n = 123, 74 males, mean age 14 years, SD 5 years) was performed to evaluate the construct validity and reliability of the DIS‐II.

Results

The DIS‐II evaluates dystonia and choreoathetosis in action and rest in 11 body regions, with action items scored from 0 to 3 and rest items 0 to 2. The number of videos to record are reduced from 26 to 14 and the items to score are reduced from 144 to 88. Rating scale functioning, goodness‐of‐fit evaluation, principal component analysis, and targeting met the predefined quality criteria of the study and construct validity was therefore considered good. Furthermore, person reliability indicated that the DIS‐II can separate individuals into eight distinct ability levels.

Interpretation

The DIS‐II provides valid and reliable measures for dystonia and choreoathetosis, and reduces the administration and scoring time compared with the DIS. The DIS‐II logit scores (interval level data) enhance comparison over time and between individuals in clinical practice and research.

What this paper adds

Compared with the Dyskinesia Impairment Scale (DIS), the shortened edition (DIS‐II) requires half of the number of videos to be scored.

The DIS‐II has a simplified rating scale, requiring scoring of 88 instead of 144 items.

The DIS‐II has shown excellent reliability and good construct validity.

The interval properties of the DIS‐II are superior to the ordinal level outcome measures of the DIS.
Safety and efficacy of liraglutide on reducing visceral and ectopic fat in adults with or without type 2 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: He Fengling , Chen Wei , Xu Wenlong , Liu Dan , Xiao Zhiwen , Tang Yating , Lin Zhongqiu , Liao Yulin , Bin Jianping , Chen GuoJun , Chen Yanmei
Published: October 2022

Aim

To assess the efficacy and safety of liraglutide to reduce visceral and ectopic fat in adults with or without type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Methods

Four databases were searched up to 6 May 2022 for randomized clinical trials assessing the effect of liraglutide on visceral and ectopic fat. The mean and standard deviation of the values of visceral fat, ectopic fat and body mass index were calculated. Subgroup analyses were performed based on the type of disease (T2DM or non‐T2DM), duration of intervention, dosage of liraglutide and whether life interventions were added to liraglutide therapy. We extracted and integrated the safety assessments reported in each article.

Results

Sixteen randomized clinical trials with, in total, 845 participants were included in the meta‐analysis. Liraglutide could significantly decrease visceral fat [standard mean difference (SMD) = −0.72, 95% confidence interval (CI; −1.12, −0.33)], liver fat [SMD = −0.78, 95% CI (−1.24, −0.32)] and body mass index [weighted mean difference = −1.44, 95% CI (−1.95, −0.92)] in adult patients with or without T2DM when compared with the control group. However, reduction of epicardial fat by liraglutide [SMD = −0.74, 95% CI (−1.82, 0.34)] was not statistically significant. Subgroup analysis revealed that an adequate dosage (≥1.8 mg/day) and appropriate duration of treatment (ranging from 16 to 40 weeks) were the decisive factors for liraglutide to reduce visceral fat effectively. Mild gastrointestinal reactions were the main adverse event of liraglutide.

Conclusions

Liraglutide significantly and safely reduces visceral and ectopic liver fat irrespective of T2DM status, and reduces visceral fat provided adequate dosage and duration of therapy are ensured.
Dimorphism and microcycle conidiation of Pseudocercospora pseudostigmina‐platani conidia from American sycamore
Authors: Park Junhyung , Seo Dahye , An Hwa‐Yong , Park Ji‐Hyun , Kim Ki Woo
Published: October 2022

In this study, the micromorphology and surface details of Pseudocercospora pseudostigmina‐platani conidia were investigated on American sycamore (Platanus occidentalis) leaves. Sooty films were collected from diseased leaves for fungal DNA extraction and observed using light and field‐emission scanning electron microscopy. Two types of conidia were present on the leaves: (i) hyaline and curved Cercostigmina‐like conidia and (ii) brown and straight Stigmina‐like conidia. The fungal pathogen was identified as P. pseudostigmina‐platani based on morphological characteristics and internal transcribed spacer region sequences. Some non‐glandular trichomes were found near the centre of the conidial masses on the abaxial surface of the naturally infected leaves. Leaf ultrasonication to dislodge conidia revealed sporodochia erupting through the stomata. Hyphae from sporodochia grew on the leaf surface and entered host tissues through the stomata. Conidiogenous cells had terminal rings and tapered towards the flat region where a conidium was attached. The conidia produced secondary conidia directly without hyphae. After dislodging the conidia by ultrasonication, scars were observed. These results indicate that the fungus has dimorphic conidia and microcycle conidiation for simple and rapid asexual reproduction.
Comparative features and outcomes of major neurological complications of COVID‐19
Authors: Beghi Ettore , Moro Elena , Davidescu Eugenia Irene , Popescu Bogdan Ovidiu , Grosu Oxana , Valzania Franco , Cotelli Maria Sofia , Kiteva‐Trenchevska Gordana , Zakharova Maria , Kovács Tibor , Armon Carmel , Brola Waldemar , Yasuda Clarissa Lin , Maia Luís F. , Lovrencic‐Huzjan Arijana , de Seabra Mafalda Maria Laracho , Avalos‐Pavon Rafael , Aamodt Anne Hege , Meoni Sara , Gryb Victoria , Ozturk Serefnur , Karadas Omer , Krehan Ingomar , Leone Maurizio A. , Lolich Maria , Bianchi Elisa , Rass Verena , Helbok Raimund , Bassetti Claudio L. A. ,   the ENERGY Study Group
Published: October 2022

Background and purpose

The aim of this study was to assess the neurological complications of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection and compare phenotypes and outcomes in infected patients with and without selected neurological manifestations.

Methods

The data source was a registry established by the European Academy of Neurology during the first wave of the COVID‐19 pandemic. Neurologists collected data on patients with COVID‐19 seen as in‐ and outpatients and in emergency rooms in 23 European and seven non‐European countries. Prospective and retrospective data included patient demographics, lifestyle habits, comorbidities, main COVID‐19 complications, hospital and intensive care unit admissions, diagnostic tests, and outcome. Acute/subacute selected neurological manifestations in patients with COVID‐19 were analysed, comparing individuals with and without each condition for several risk factors.

Results

By July 31, 2021, 1523 patients (758 men, 756 women, and nine intersex/unknown, aged 16–101 years) were registered. Neurological manifestations were diagnosed in 1213 infected patients (79.6%). At study entry, 978 patients (64.2%) had one or more chronic general or neurological comorbidities. Predominant acute/subacute neurological manifestations were cognitive dysfunction (N = 449, 29.5%), stroke (N = 392, 25.7%), sleep–wake disturbances (N = 250, 16.4%), dysautonomia (N = 224, 14.7%), peripheral neuropathy (N = 145, 9.5%), movement disorders (N = 142, 9.3%), ataxia (N = 134, 8.8%), and seizures (N = 126, 8.3%). These manifestations tended to differ with regard to age, general and neurological comorbidities, infection severity and non‐neurological manifestations, extent of association with other acute/subacute neurological manifestations, and outcome.

Conclusions

Patients with COVID‐19 and neurological manifestations present with distinct phenotypes. Differences in age, general and neurological comorbidities, and infection severity characterize the various neurological manifestations of COVID‐19.
Unveiling unselective fishing in China: A nationwide meta‐analysis of multispecies fisheries
Authors: Sun Ming , Li Yunzhou , Chen Yong
Published: October 2022

Understanding and managing fishery selectivity to target species and desirable size are instrumental to fisheries management. China, as the world's largest producer of marine capture fisheries, has been widely perceived to possess unselective domestic fisheries. To date, this perception remains largely anecdotal and conjectural, hindering the development of evidence‐based and effective management solutions. Here, we conducted a literature review to examine the magnitude and scale of unselective fisheries in China. By collating and analysing 140 fishery‐level and 807 species‐level records from 66 peer‐reviewed publications from 2010 to 2021, we found that primary target species were absent in 59% of fisheries, while unidentifiable low‐value and juvenile mixed catch were universal. Key commercial taxa were subject to nationwide multi‐gear and multispecies fisheries, each involving an average of 3.33 types of gear and accounting for less than 25% of catch individually. The ‘permissible gears’ defined by the national gear regulatory catalogue were selective over target species and caught negligible by‐products, though they were used less frequently, representing only 24% of catch records. While unselective fishing can provide seafood supplies for China's large population and potentially facilitate balanced harvest, management actions are needed to control the fishing pressure on primary target species and by‐product species. Amid the ongoing fisheries management reform in China, we proposed management recommendations tailored to China's needs and social contexts, including accounting for the trade‐off between socio‐economic and ecological goals, contemplating impacts of unselective fishing when implementing TAC programmes, and strengthening fisheries monitoring to inform management at multiple scales.
On the track of intramembrane clippers: the SPPL2a/b proteases caught in the act in animal models
Authors: Trávníčková Květa , Stříšovský Kvido
Published: October 2022

In this issue, Ballin et al. report on their analysis of the substrate repertoire of SPPL2a and b intramembrane proteases. Based on the previous studies of their closest homologues, SPPL2c, SPPL3 and SPP, the authors hypothesized that SPPL2a/b proteases may cleave a subset of SNARE proteins. Indeed, four R‐SNARE proteins, VAMP1, 2, 3 and 4, were cleaved by SPPL2a/b, both in overexpression assays and at endogenous levels. These findings have been validated by analysis of SPPL2a/b double knock‐out mice tissues, which implicates these proteases in the regulation of SNARE protein turnover in vivo. The study of Ballin et al. also provides material for future studies of factors determining substrate specificity of SPPLs, as they cleave different subsets of the tail‐anchored SNARE proteins.

Comment on: https://doi.org/10.1111/febs.16610
APE1 interacts with the nuclear exosome complex protein MTR4 and is involved in cisplatin‐ and 5‐fluorouracil‐induced RNA damage response
Authors: Codrich Marta , Degrassi Monica , Malfatti Matilde Clarissa , Antoniali Giulia , Gorassini Andrea , Ayyildiz Dilara , De Marco Rossella , Verardo Giancarlo , Tell Gianluca
Published: October 2022

The nuclear RNA surveillance mechanism is essential for cancer cell survival and is ensured by the RNA nuclear exosome including some co‐factors, such as the RNA helicase MTR4. Recent studies suggest an involvement of DNA repair proteins such as apurinic/apyrimidinic (AP) endodeoxyribonuclease 1 (APE1), a major endodeoxyribonuclease of Base Excision Repair (BER), in RNA metabolism and RNA decay of oxidized and abasic RNA. Cisplatin (CDDP) and 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU) are commonly used for the treatment of solid tumours. Whether APE1 is involved in the elimination of CDDP‐ or 5‐FU‐damaged RNA is unknown, as is its possible interaction with the nuclear exosome complex. Here, by using different human cancer cell models, we demonstrated that: (a) APE1 is involved in the elimination of damaged‐RNA, upon CDDP‐ and 5‐FU‐treatments, in a MTR4‐independent manner; (b) the interaction between APE1 and MTR4 is stimulated by CDDP‐ and 5‐FU‐treatments through lysine residues in the APE1 N‐terminal region and is, in part, mediated by nucleic acids and (c) APE1‐ and MTR4‐depletion lead to the generation of R‐loop formation causing the activation of the DNA damage response (DDR) pathway through the ATM‐p53‐p21 axis. Our data demonstrate a role of MTR4 in DDR underpinning the function of APE1 in controlling the RNA quality upon genotoxic treatments with possible implications in chemoresistance.
Early life stress exacerbates bone resorption and inhibits anxiety‐like behaviour induced by apical periodontitis in rats
Authors: Bertolini Botelho Maria Clara , Cintra Luciano Tavares Angelo , da Silva Cristiane Cantiga , Mitsuy Kayahara Giseli , Belzunces Pereira Rosani , Oliveira Santos Mylena Fernanda , Issamu Miyahara Glauco , Biasoli Éder Ricardo , Penha Oliveira Sandra Helena , Bernabé Daniel Galera
Published: October 2022

Aim

To evaluate the influence of the early life stress (ELS) on the severity of the apical periodontitis (AP) in Wistar rats.

Methodology

Forty male Wistar rats were divided into four groups (n = 10): Control rats; AP—rats with AP; ELS—rats subject to ELS; AP + ELS—rats exposed to ELS and subject to AP. ELS was induced by maternal separation (MS) for a period of 3 h for 21 consecutive days. AP was induced via pulp exposure of the first and second right maxillary molars to the oral environment for 40 days. Three days before euthanasia, all rats underwent behavioural analysis to measure anxiety levels by elevated zero maze. Then, the rats were euthanized and the maxillas were removed to assess the occurrence and severity of AP. The periapical region was evaluated for the intensity of the inflammatory infiltrate and the extent of bone loss. The Mann–Whitney test was performed for nonparametric data, and the Tukey's or Student's t‐test was performed for parametric data (p < .05).

Results

The intensity of the inflammatory infiltrate was significantly larger in the AP + ELS group when compared with AP group (p < .05). The AP + ELS group exhibited significantly greater alveolar bone loss, with a periapical lesion size of 103.5 ± 29.88, compared with 72.3 ± 22.28 in the AP group (p < .05). Rats with AP displayed higher anxiety‐like behaviour in relation to the control group (p < .05). However, exposure to ELS abolished the AP‐induced increased anxiety‐like ‘behaviour’ throughout, since that rats from AP + ELS group attended more the open arms than non‐stressed rats with AP (p < .05).

Conclusion

Early life stress is predictive of the severity of AP exacerbating the inflammatory process and increasing periapical bone resorption.
In vitro inflammatory modulation of bioceramic endodontic sealer in macrophages stimulated by bacterial lipopolysaccharide
Authors: Martorano Antônio Secco , Messias Nadyne Saab , Bighetti‐Trevisan Rayana Longo , de Oliveira Paulo Tambasco , de Castro Raucci Larissa Moreira Spinola , Raucci Neto Walter
Published: October 2022

Aim

To evaluate the effects of AH Plus (Dentsply), Sealer 26 (Dentsply), and Sealer Plus BC (Produtos Médicos e Odontológicos) on cytotoxicity and inflammation in macrophage cultures exposed to bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS).

Methodology

After initial setting, the sealers were conditioned with serum‐free culture medium for 24 h (1 ml/cm2). Macrophages from the RAW 264.7 strain were exposed to sealer extracts in a 1:16 ratio in a culture medium with or without LPS. Cell morphology, viability, mitochondrial activity, oxidative stress and gene expression of interleukin 1β (IL‐1β) and tumour necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) were evaluated. Data on mitochondrial activity, oxidative stress and TNF‐α were analysed using a two‐way analysis of variance (anova) test, followed by the Student–Newman–Keuls post‐test. IL‐1β data were analysed using one‐way anova, followed by SNK, and the t‐test was used for intragroup comparison. The significance level was set at 5%.

Results

In the absence of LPS, only AH Plus and Sealer 26 showed a reduction in cell density, while in the presence of LPS, Sealer 26 had the lowest density compared to the other groups. In terms of mitochondrial activity, at 24 and 48 h, Sealer Plus BC had significantly higher mean values than Sealer 26 and AH Plus (p < .05). Sealer 26 exhibited the lowest levels of oxidative stress and IL‐1β and TNF‐α expression, regardless of the presence of LPS (p < .05).

Conclusions

Although all sealers interfere with the response of macrophages to LPS, contact with epoxy resin‐based sealers can impair cell activity in vitro, while bioceramic sealer seems to favour the inflammatory functions of these cells.
Patterns of recurrence in genuine and induced oligometastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer treated with progressive site‐directed therapy
Authors: Yoshida Soichiro , Takahara Taro , Arita Yuki , Toda Kazuma , Kimura Koichiro , Fujiwara Motohiro , Tanaka Hajime , Yokoyama Minato , Matsuoka Yoh , Yoshimura Ryoichi , Fujii Yasuhisa
Published: October 2022

Objectives

To describe oncological outcomes after progressive site‐directed therapy (PSDT) in genuine and induced oligometasatic (OM)‐castration‐resistant prostate cancer (CRPC).

Methods

Thirty‐seven patients with OM‐CRPC treated with PSDT were retrospectively analyzed, and oncological outcomes and recurrence patterns on whole‐body diffusion‐weighted MRI (WB‐DWI) were evaluated.

Results

Twenty‐two (59%) were classified as genuine OM‐CRPC and 15 (41%) as induced OM‐CRPC. A 50% decline in PSA after PSDT was observed in 21 (95%) genuine OM‐CRPCs and 7 (47%) induced OM‐CRPCs (p = 0.0005). At a median observation period of 7.3 months, median PSA progression‐free survival were 10.9 months in the genuine OM‐CRPCs and 4.8 months in the induced OM‐CRPCs (p = 0.015). Among the patients who developed PSA progression after PSDT, 11 of 15 in the genuine OM‐CRPCs (73%) and 11 of 14 in the induced OM‐CRPCs (79%) underwent WB‐DWI at PSA progression. The median numbers of newly detected metastases were 2 (range: 1–5) in the genuine OM‐CRPCs and 4 (range: 1–40) in the induced OM‐CRPCs (p = 0.049). Only one new metastasis appeared in 5 patients from the genuine OM‐CRPCs (46%) and 1 from the induced OM‐CRPCs (9.1%, p = 0.048). In 7 of 9 patients from the genuine OM‐CRPCs (78%) and 7 of 8 patients from the induced OM‐CRPCs (88%) who had bone metastases alone, the newly detected metastasis limited to the bone.

Conclusions

Genuine OM‐CRPC had better oncological outcomes after PSDT than induced OM‐CRPC, and the number of lesions detected at recurrence was limited. Induced OM‐CRPC might be a disseminated condition with micrometastases at OM diagnosis.
Cutaneous melanoma metastases: Clinical and dermoscopic findings
Authors: Kostaki Maria , Plaka Michaela , Moustaki Margarita , Befon Aggeliki , Champsas Grigoris , Kypreou Katerina , Chardalia Vasiliki , Chasapi Vasiliki , Polydorou Dorothea , Stratigos Alexandros
Published: October 2022

Background

About 2%–20% of melanoma patients will develop cutaneous melanoma metastases (CMM). Their clinical diagnosis still remains challenging because of the variation of clinical and dermoscopic characteristics. Until today, few studies exist concerning the dermoscopic image of CMM but no one has focused on its possible association with clinicopathological melanoma characteristics.

Methods

Between 2002 and 2019, 42 patients diagnosed with melanoma at Andreas Syggros Hospital developed CMM. We studied the dermoscopic presentation of these metastases and its possible association with the clinical and histologic characteristics of the underlying melanoma.

Results

There were 20 male and 22 female patients with a mean age of 64.02 years. Nineteen patients developed satellites and 23 in transit metastases. Mean Breslow index was estimated at 2.93 mm and ulceration was observed in half of the tumours (50%). Almost half of the patients developed cutaneous metastases on the lower limbs (45.24%). We identified 5 dermoscopic patterns of CMM: saccular, amelanotic, homogenous, vascular and polymorphic. Homogenous (30.95%) and amelanotic (28.57%) were the most common patterns. Homogenous pattern was the most common in satellite metastases while amelanotic was mostly observed in in‐transit metastases. Homogenous pattern was more frequent among superficial spreading melanomas. Patients with thin (<1 mm) and medium depth (1–2 mm) melanomas mostly developed metastases with saccular pattern. Vascular pattern was only present in metastases of tumours with Breslow index 2–4 mm. Homogenous and amelanotic were the only patterns found in tumours with Breslow index >4 mm.

Conclusions

We observed that vascular structures were more frequent in metastases of deeper tumours while nevus‐like structures were more common in metastases of thinner tumours. CMM occasionally may constitute the first clinical sign of melanoma disease. Therefore, it is important for clinicians to recognize their dermoscopic patterns which seem to be associated with some of the clinical and histological characteristics of cutaneous melanomas.
Optimization of solvent extraction conditions of bioactive compound from wood apple (Limonia acidissima L.) fruit using ultrasonic assisted extraction
Authors: Singhania Nisha , Barmanray Aradhita , Chhikara Navnidhi
Published: October 2022

Ultrasonic assisted extraction is a novel technique that can be applied to obtain bioactive compounds from plants with great efficiency. The aim of this study was to optimize the phenolic extraction efficiency and DPPHsc activity from the wood apple (Limonia acidissima L.) fruit. Phenols were extracted using different polar solvents, namely methanol and acetone. The conditions of extraction with the ultrasonic method using response surface methodology central composite design (CCD) and the variables include the solvent concentration of methanol and acetone (50%–100%), ultrasonic temperature (30–50°C), sonication duration (20–40 min), and ultrasonic frequency (25–45 kHz). Optimum extraction conditions were determined as follows: 61.5% of solvent concentration and extraction temperature of 50°C for 40 min of extraction time at 25 kHz ultrasonic frequency for methanol. For these extraction conditions in the case of methanol extract, the phenolic yield, total phenolic content, and DPPHsc were found to be 25.81%, 224.36 μg GAE/g, and 93.49%, respectively. For the acetone extract, optimum extraction conditions were as follows: 52.68% solvent concentration, 47.89°C temperature, 39.8 min, and 0.73 kHz ultrasonic frequency. The results obtained under these optimized conditions were 23.78% yield of phenolic extract, 290.76 μg GAE/g TPC, and 91.28% DPPHsc, for acetone. The result demonstrated that the highest phenolic efficiency, phenolic content, and DPPHsc were observed for the methanolic solvent extract. SEM images of ultrasonicated powder samples showed that sonication results in cell rupturing and thus increasing the mass transfer for bioactive compounds. Furthermore, the results of ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) analysis of phenolic compounds from the methanolic extract of wood apple fruit pulp revealed the presence of gallic acid, catechin, caffeic acid, syringic acid, vanillic acid, and quercetin in a magnificent amount.

Novelty impact statement

Traditionally, solvent extraction techniques have been done in wood apple fruit; however, in this work, we add an advanced technology, the ultrasonic assisted extraction, which improves the extraction yield and efficiency of phenolic compounds using different organic solvents. After that study planned, SEM analysis shows a structural description which is evident that how this advanced technology shows a structural disruption that enhances extraction efficiency. After that study planned for chromatography by UHPLC that highlights the essential bioactive or phenolic compound obtained in the ultrasonic extract.
Benefits and harms of oral anticoagulants for atrial fibrillation in nursing home residents with advanced dementia
Authors: Ouellet Gregory M. , O'Leary John R. , Leggett Christopher G. , Skinner Jonathan , Tinetti Mary E. , Cohen Andrew B.
Published: October 2022

Background

Approximately 20% of older persons with dementia have atrial fibrillation (AF). Nearly all have stroke risks that exceed the guideline‐recommended threshold for anticoagulation. Although individuals with dementia develop profound impairments and die from the disease, little evidence exists to guide anticoagulant discontinuation, and almost one‐third of nursing home residents with advanced dementia and AF remain anticoagulated in the last 6 months of life. We aimed to quantify the benefits and harms of anticoagulation in this population.

Methods

Using Minimum Data Set and Medicare claims, we conducted a retrospective cohort study with 14,877 long‐stay nursing home residents aged ≥66 between 2013 and 2018 who had advanced dementia and AF. We excluded individuals with venous thromboembolism and valvular heart disease. We measured anticoagulant exposure quarterly, using Medicare Part D claims. The primary outcome was all‐cause mortality; secondary outcomes were ischemic stroke and serious bleeding. We performed survival analyses with multivariable adjustment and inverse probability of treatment (IPT) weighting.

Results

In the study sample, 72.0% were female, 82.7% were aged ≥80 years, and 13.5% were nonwhite. Mean CHA2DS2VASC score was 6.19 ± 1.58. In multivariable survival analysis, anticoagulation was associated with decreased risk of death (HR 0.71, 95% CI 0.67–0.75) and increased bleeding risk (HR 1.15, 95% CI 1.02–1.29); the association with stroke risk was not significant (HR 1.08, 95% CI 0.80–1.46). Results were similar in models with IPT weighting. While >50% of patients in both groups died within a year, median weighted survival was 76 days longer for anticoagulated individuals.

Conclusion

Persons with advanced dementia and AF derive clinically modest life prolongation from anticoagulation, at the cost of elevated risk of bleeding. The relevance of this benefit is unclear in a group with high dementia‐related mortality and for whom the primary goal is often comfort.
Good tolerance of hyaluronic acid filler injections during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Naouri Michael , Dahan Serge , Prost Anne Le Pillouer , Coutant‐Foulc Phrynée , Raimbault Catherine , Cucurella Françoise , Creusot Muriel , Baspeyras Martine , Darchy Martine , Khallouf Randa , Cartier Hugues , Baratte Isabelle , Dubois Magali , Laubach Hans ,   Groupe de Dermatologie Esthétique et Correctrice de la Société Française de Dermatologie (GDEC)
Published: October 2022

Background

The aim of our study was to identify and evaluate the complications related to hyaluronic acid during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Method

Twelve dermatologists participated in this study. A cohort and a non‐cohort follow‐up were ensured.

Results

(1) Cohort follow‐up: 1041 patients. 8% had a COVID‐19 infection, 27% had received COVID‐19 vaccination. 2% had immediate side effects (edema, erythema, bruising). 0.5% had delayed side effects (two inflammatory nodules, one nodule without inflammation, one edema). None of these side effects occurred in the context of infection or COVID‐19 vaccinations. (2) Non‐cohort follow‐up: 7900 syringes used. Two early side effects (inflammatory edema) were reported, of which one occurred 15 days after vaccination. Two cases of delayed side effects such as inflammation on the injected area and inflammatory nodules occurred of which one was in the context of vaccination and one during COVID‐19 infection. We estimate the frequency of complications possibly attributable to the disease or to the COVID vaccination to be 0.06% in our population.

Discussion

Complications of HA injections in the context of COVID‐19 disease or vaccination appear to be very rare but the frequency could be underestimated because of the low rate of vaccination/infection in our population. Our study shows a very good tolerance of hyaluronic acid injections during the COVID‐19 pandemic.
Comparison of percutaneous cystolithotomy and open cystotomy for removal of urethral and bladder uroliths in dogs: Retrospective study of 81 cases (2014‐2018)
Authors: Job Chloé , Lecavalier Julie , Dunn Marilyn , Gatineau Matthieu , Planté Jérôme , Benamou Jérôme , Coutellier Martin , Javard Romain
Published: October 2022

Objective

Compare percutaneous cystolithotomy (PCCL) and open cystotomy (OC) for removal of bladder and urethral uroliths.

Design

Retrospective study.

Animals

Client‐owned dogs and cats that underwent PCCL (n = 41) or OC (n = 40) between January 1, 2014 and February 28, 2018 at a referral center.

Methods

Medical records of dogs and cats that underwent a PCCL or an OC were reviewed. History, signalment, physical examination, diagnostic tests, length of the procedure and anesthesia, complications, and duration of hospitalization were recorded.

Results

A total 17 cats (PCCL = 10; OC = 7) and 64 dogs (PCCL = 31; OC = 33) were included. There was no significant difference, regardless of species, in the mean surgical time (45 min [24‐160 min] and 48.5 min [15‐122 min] with P = .54 in dogs, P = .65 in cats) nor mean duration of anesthesia (90 min [50‐120 min] and 98 min [54‐223 min] with P = .87 in dogs, P = .08 in cats) in the PCCL and OC groups respectively. Number of uroliths did not affect duration of surgery in either group. Complete urolith removal was achieved in 98% of dogs and cats in both groups. The median hospitalization time was significantly shorter in the PCCL group for dogs (11.3 hours [range 4 to 51.3] in the PCCL vs 56.6 hours [range 7.3 to 96] in the OC group; P < .001) but did not differ for cats (24.5 hours [range 8.3 to 30] in the PCCL vs 56.6 hours [range 10.1 to 193.2] in the OC group; P = .08).

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance

Bladder urolith removal by PCCL procedure is no longer than OC. Further studies are needed to compare the pain related to procedure between PCCL and OC.
Similarity but not equivalence: Ecological niche comparison between sandflies from the Pleistocene and future scenarios in Central and South America
Authors: Galvis‐Martinez Carlos A. , Moo‐Llanes David A. , Altamiranda‐Saavedra Mariano
Published: October 2022

Sandfly species (Diptera: Psychodidae) are suspected or proven vectors of Leishmania spp. in the American region. Understanding niche conservatism (NC) in insect vectors allows an understanding of constraints on adaptive responses, and thus implications for disease ecology. Therefore, in this study, the authors evaluated NC in three vector species of leishmaniasis (Lutzomyia gomezi, Psathyromyia shannoni and Pintomyia ovallesi) in Central and South America. For this, the authors performed niche identity and similarity testing through paired comparisons in ENMTools and niche overlap in Niche Analyst. The authors found that species niches were more similar to each other than if the points had been randomly extracted, and they also found extensive similarity between Pa. shannoni and Lu. gomezi niches and in Pa. shannoni niches over different timescales. The authors suggest Pa. shannoni as a priority species due to fundamental niche similarity with phylogenetically related species and also its extensive evolutionary history and ecological plasticity that could affect the emergence and resurgence of leishmaniasis in areas endemic by this vector.
Alpha 2‐Heremans‐Schmid glycoprotein gene polymorphism (rs4918) is associated with coronary artery calcification in incident peritoneal dialysis patients
Authors: Dai Shuqi , Chen Yun , Shang Da , Ge Xiaolin , Yan Huanqing , Hao Chuanming , Zhu Tongying
Published: October 2022

Aim

Coronary artery calcification (CAC) is a common and severe complication in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients, and it progresses in a majority of patients. Fetuin‐A, encoded by the alpha 2‐Heremans‐Schmid glycoprotein (AHSG) gene, is a serum calcification inhibitor. The study aimed to examine the role of AHSG gene polymorphism rs4918 in CAC and CAC progression of PD patients.

Methods

Incident PD patients at Huashan Hospital Fudan University in China from August 2007 to July 2018 were recruited in this prospective study and followed up for 2 years. Patients underwent CAC measurements at recruitment and 2 years later. AHSG gene polymorphism rs4918 and serum fetuin‐A were determined at baseline. The demographic characteristics, clinical data, and laboratory data were collected during the follow‐up period. Binary logistic regression was performed to explore the association between rs4918 with CAC and CAC progression.

Results

A total of 202 PD patients (112 men, 55.4%) were recruited, with a mean age of 54 ± 16 years. The multivariate logistic regression identified genotype GG as an independent risk factor that correlates to CAC (odds ratio [OR] = 2.153; 95% CI: 1.182–3.925; p = .012) and CAC progression (OR = 2.482; 95% CI: 1.422–4.330; p = .001). The serum fetuin‐A level was influenced by the rs4918 variants of AHSG, with a dose‐dependent effect depending on the number of the G allele.

Conclusion

AHSG gene polymorphism rs4918 affects serum fetuin‐A levels and is significantly associated with both CAC and CAC progression in a cohort of patients receiving PD.
Post‐COVID‐19 vaccination arm pain diagnosed as complex regional pain syndrome: A case report
Authors: Cho Jang Hyuk , Ahn Hye Chan , Choi Yongmin
Published: October 2022

As the vaccination efforts against the coronavirus disease‐2019 (COVID‐19) continue, more patients are likely to present with complications related to COVID‐19 vaccination. We describe the first reported case of complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), involving the upper extremities, that occurred after COVID‐19 vaccination. The patient presented with acute‐onset severe arm pain and swelling following vaccine administration. Based on the clinical, electrodiagnostic, and radionuclide three‐phase bone scan findings, the patient was diagnosed with postvaccination CRPS. The COVID‐19 vaccine possibly elicited an immune‐mediated inflammatory response to the injected antigen in the patient, who was predisposed to CRPS due to inflammatory immunity. The COVID‐19 vaccine elicited an immune‐mediated inflammatory response to the injected antigen, resulting in CRPS following COVID‐19 vaccination.