bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-term Results of Nd:YAG Goniopuncture on Viscocanalostomy and Phacoviscocanalostomy
Authors: Gupta Chandni , Logeswaran Abison , Mathews Divya
Published: July 2021

Précis:

Laser goniopuncture (LGP) is an effective outpatient procedure which has been shown to maintain reduced intraocular pressure (IOP) 5 years following initial laser treatment in patients who have had viscocanalostomy (VC) (with or without phacoemulsification).

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to establish the long term (5 y) efficacy of neodymium-doped:yttrium aluminum-garnet LGP to lower IOP following VC or phacoviscocanalostomy (PVC) in patients with glaucoma.

Patients and Methods:

This retrospective study analyzed patients who underwent LGP following VC±phacoemulsification between 2009 and 2012 at the Stanley Eye Unit in Abergele. Reason for further intervention included either increasing IOP outside target range or worsening visual fields. Statistical analyses were performed comparing pregoniopucture values to those taken up to 5 years later.

Results:

Of the 620 VC and PVC procedures performed between 2009 and 2012, 218 eyes underwent LGP after a mean of 25 months [95% confidence interval (CI): 22.58 to 27.41] following surgery. Patients having a PVC had a longer mean time to goniopuncture compared with those who were phakic and had VC only (P<0.001). Immediately following goniopuncture IOP dropped, and a statistically significant reduction persisted at 5 year follow-up (P<0.001). Goniopuncture reduced IOP significantly from a pretreatment value of 21 to 15 mm Hg over 5 years (95% CI) (χ2
F
(4)=119.1, P<0.001). In total, 154 eyes (71%) were commenced on IOP-lowering medication at a mean of 14 months (95% CI: 12 to 17). At 5 years, successful IOP control was achieved in 73% (49 of 67) of eyes. There was no difference found between type of surgery and successful pressure control at 5 years (χ2
(1)=2.00, P=0.16).

Conclusion:

LGP is an effective procedure which maintains a statistically significant reduction in IOP in the long term.
Subcutaneous Soft Tissue Metastases in Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Lubin David , Jafroodifar Abtin , Seth Rahul , Zaccarini Daniel
Published: July 2021

Initial disease presentations are often surprising compared with expected clinical trajectories. We present a case of metastatic lung adenocarcinoma where the initial presentation was masquerading as a musculoskeletal soft tissue mass. Initial concern was for a hematoma after light trauma, but due to a pacemaker, MRI was contraindicated. Workup included a 99mTc-MDP bone scan where the lesion demonstrated activity. Further workup imaging was serendipitous, revealing a left upper lobe mass. Biopsy demonstrated poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma of lung origin. Soft tissue metastasis can occur with lung adenocarcinoma, and although it constitutes a less frequent metastatic route, it is nevertheless clinically important.
Myelofibrosis Pattern in 68Ga-PSMA PET/CT of a Patient With Recurrence Prostate Cancer
Authors: Kunikowska Jolanta , Pełka Kacper
Published: July 2021

We present the case of a 64-year-old man with prostate adenocarcinoma, Gleason score 7, after radical prostatectomy and adjuvant radiotherapy in 2015. Because of high risk and perineural invasion, hormonotherapy was indicated. PSA levels began to rise, and at PSA level of 0.9 ng/mL, he was referred for 68Ga-PSMAPET/CT. It showed focal uptake in the right femur and diffuse tracer accumulation in bone marrow. The patient was previously diagnosed with macrocytic anemia. He underwent bone marrow biopsy. Based on clinical, laboratory, and histopathology results, myelodysplastic fibrosis was diagnosed. Diffuse uptake of 68Ga-PSMA was the sign of the bone marrow stimulation.
FDG-Avid Tracheal Mass and Cartilage Involvements in ANCA-Negative Granulomatosis With Polyangiitis
Authors: Tanaka Hiroki , Hosono Makoto , Kawabata Kazuna , Kageyama Goichi , Yamashita Mai
Published: July 2021

A 57-year-old woman was referred for progressive dyspnea. CT showed a tracheal mass, suspicious of tracheal neoplasm. The lesion was partially resected, and nonspecific granulation tissue was observed on histology. Her symptoms and CT findings worsened. FDG PET/CT showed increased FDG accumulation in the nasal septum and left eustachian tube in addition to the tracheobronchial lesions. Although the patient was ANCA (antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies) negative, a differential diagnosis of granulomatosis with polyangiitis was established and confirmed pathologically. FDG PET/CT was useful for diagnosis of ANCA-negative granulomatosis with polyangiitis, in which tracheobronchial and cartilage lesions were prominent.
Photographic Nasal Soft Tissue Analysis From Preadolescence to Young Adulthood: Anthropometric Measurements
Authors: Golpinar Murat , Nahir Mert , Ozdemir Fikri , Sahin Bunyamin
Published: July 2021

The nose has a tremendous effect on facial esthetics and overall facial harmony, accordingly it contributes to the physical appearance of individuals. The aim of this study is to establish sex-related nasal soft tissue norms for preadolescents, adolescents, and young adults in Anatolian population. A total of 300 volunteers (150 males and 150 females) with ages varying from 10 to 24 years were divided into 6 subgroups according to gender and educational status. The anthropometric measurements of the nose in preadolescent, adolescent, and young adult males and females were performed on digital photographs. A total of 16 nasal parameters, 13 linear and 3 angular measurements, were analyzed for sex-related variations. A significant sexual dimorphism was observed for nasofrontal and nasolabial angles in adolescent and young adult groups (P < 0.001, P = 0.011, and P = 0.007, respectively). All linear measurements of the nose were larger in males as compared to females, except for left alar thickness, which were similar between males and females in young adult group. Of the 16 nasal measurements, 13 were found to be sexually dimorphic in certain age groups (P < 0.05). In Anatolian population, the nasal shape and dimensions displayed significant sexual dimorphism in preadolescents, adolescents, and young adults. The average values of nasal soft tissue in this population could serve as a database for the planning of cosmetic and reconstructive rhinoplasty in the pediatric and adult population and obtaining the desired outcomes.
Intraoperative Measures to Reduce the Risk of COVID-19 Transmission During Minimally Invasive Procedures: A Systematic Review and Critical Appraisal of Societies’ Recommendations
Authors: Tommaselli Giovanni A. , Grange Philippe , Ricketts Crystal D. , Clymer Jeffrey W. , Fryrear Raymond S.
Published: July 2021

Background:

The coronavirus 2019 pandemic and the hypothetical risk of virus transmission through aerosolized CO2 or surgical smoke produced during minimally invasive surgery (MIS) procedures have prompted societies to issue recommendations on measures to reduce this risk. The aim of this systematic review is to identify, summarize and critically appraise recommendations from surgical societies on intraoperative measures to reduce the risk of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 transmission to the operative room (OR) staff during MIS.

Methods:

Medline, Embase, and Google Scholar databases were searched using a search strategy or free terms. The search was supplemented with searches of additional relevant records on coronavirus 2019 resource websites from Surgical Associations and Societies. Recommendations published by surgical societies that reported on the intraoperative methods to reduce the risk of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 transmission to the OR staff during MIS were also reviewed for inclusion. Expert opinion articles were excluded. A preliminary synthesis was performed of the extracted data to categorize and itemize the different types of recommendations. The results were then summarized in a narrative synthesis.

Results:

Thirty-three recommendation were included in the study. Most recommendations were targeted to general surgery (13) and gynecology (8). Areas covered by the documents were recommendations on performance of laparoscopic/robotic surgery versus open approach (28 documents), selection of surgical staff (13), management of pneumoperitoneum (33), use of energy devices (20), and management of surgical smoke and pneumoperitoneum desufflation (33) with varying degree of consensus on the specific recommendations among the documents.

Conclusions:

While some of the early recommendations advised against the use of MIS, they were not strictly based on the available scientific evidence. After further consideration of the literature and of the well-known benefits of laparoscopy to the patient, later recommendations shifted to encouraging the use of MIS as long as adequate precautions could be taken to protect the safety of the OR staff. The release and implementation of recommendations should be based on evidence-based practices that allows health care systems to provide safe surgical and medical assistance.
Risks of Laparoscopic Harvest of Free Intestinal Flaps for Esophageal Reconstruction
Authors: Aksoyler Dicle , Losco Luigi , Sert Gokhan , Chen Shih-Heng , Chen Hung-Chi
Published: July 2021

Background:

Performing ablative surgery using an laparoscope is a common practice. However, its use in the harvest of a segment of intestine for reconstruction has 2 major challenges: risk of damage to the vascular pedicle of the flap as well as to the vessels of other parts of the intestine that remain in the peritoneal cavity and risk of damage to the intestinal flap while pulling it out through a small opening in the abdominal wall. The aim of this study was to report advantages and disadvantages of harvesting free intestinal flaps using the laparoscopic method, explaining the challenges faced and lessons learned from this experience.

Patients and Methods:

Free intestinal flaps were harvested by laparoscopy in 12 patients aged 28 to 63 years. There were 9 free jejunal flaps for the reconstruction of the cervical esophagus and 3 ileocolic flaps for the reconstruction of both the cervical esophagus and voice reconstruction.

Results:

In 1 patient, laparoscopy was converted to laparotomy due to previous colectomy, which resulted in compromised circulation to the rest of the colon. One jejunal flap had leakage at its pharyngeal end; therefore, a pectoralis major myocutaneous flap was used for closure. In addition, 1 ileocolic flap had partial loss of its anterior wall, and a free anterolateral flap was used as a patch for closure. Furthermore, it was very difficult to harvest 1 free jejunal flap due to the thick and fat mesentery.

Conclusion:

Prolonged operative times, unexpected leakage at the anastomosis sites, partial loss of flaps, possible risk of vascular pedicle damage or venous compromise, demanding pedicle dissection in obese patients, and requirement of conversion to laparotomy are the major drawbacks of harvesting free intestinal flaps by laparoscopy.
Abstract concepts in interaction: the need of others when guessing abstract concepts smooths dyadic motor interactions
Authors: Fini Chiara , Era Vanessa , Da Rold Federico , Candidi Matteo , Borghi Anna M.
Published: July 2021

Abstract concepts (ACs, e.g. ‘justice’) are more complex compared with concrete concepts (CCs) (e.g. ‘table’). Indeed, they do not possess a single object as a referent, they assemble quite heterogeneous members and they are more detached from exteroceptive and more grounded in interoceptive experience. Recent views have hypothesized that interpersonal communication is particularly crucial to acquire and use ACs. The current study investigates the reliance of ACs/CCs representation on interpersonal behaviour. We asked participants to perform a motor interaction task with two avatars who embodied two real confederates. Before and after the motor interaction task, the two confederates provided participants with hints in a concept guessing task associated with visual stimuli: one helped in guessing ACs and the other, CCs. A control study we performed both with the materials employed in the main experiment and with other materials, confirmed that associating verbal concepts with visual images was more difficult with ACs than with CCs. Consistently, the results of the main experiment showed that participants asked for more hints with ACs than CCs and were more synchronous when interacting with the avatar corresponding to the AC's confederate. The results highlight an important role of sociality in grounding ACs.
Physiological factors influencing female fertility in birds
Authors: Assersohn Katherine , Brekke Patricia , Hemmings Nicola
Published: July 2021

Fertility is fundamental to reproductive success, but not all copulation attempts result in a fertilized embryo. Fertilization failure is especially costly for females, but we still lack a clear understanding of the causes of variation in female fertility across taxa. Birds make a useful model system for fertility research, partly because their large eggs are easily studied outside of the female's body, but also because of the wealth of data available on the reproductive productivity of commercial birds. Here, we review the factors contributing to female infertility in birds, providing evidence that female fertility traits are understudied relative to male fertility traits, and that avian fertility research has been dominated by studies focused on Galliformes and captive (relative to wild) populations. We then discuss the key stages of the female reproductive cycle where fertility may be compromised, and make recommendations for future research. We particularly emphasize that studies must differentiate between infertility and embryo mortality as causes of hatching failure, and that non-breeding individuals should be monitored more routinely where possible. This review lays the groundwork for developing a clearer understanding of the causes of female infertility, with important consequences for multiple fields including reproductive science, conservation and commercial breeding.
Structure and dielectric properties of (1-x)Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3–xBaTiO3piezoceramics prepared using hydrothermally synthesized powders
Authors: Nesterović Andrea , Vukmirović Jelena , Stijepović Ivan , Milanović Marija , Bajac Branimir , Tóth Elvira , Cvejić Željka , Srdić Vladimir V.
Published: July 2021

The influence of different processing parameters and various Ba2+addition (up to 10 mol%) on the structure and dielectric properties of Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3-BaTiO3(BNT-BT) ceramics was investigated. The powders were hydrothermally synthesized in the alkaline environment at 180°C for different time periods. X-ray diffraction confirmed the presence of dominant rhombohedral Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3phase and a small amount of secondary pyrochlore Bi2Ti2O7phase in the pure BNT powders. In addition, one-dimensional Na2Ti2O7structure was also observed in the powder hydrothermally treated for a long time (i.e. 48 h). The amount of secondary pyrochlore phase in the BNT-BT powders increases with the increase of Ba2+content. The synthesized powders were pressed into pellets and finally sintered at various temperatures up to 1150°C. High density (more than 90%TD) was obtained in all BNT-BT sintered samples. Optimal sintering parameters were chosen in order to obtain dense ceramics with the optimal phase composition. The temperature dependence of dielectric properties for the BNT-BT ceramics was also studied. Relaxor behaviour of BNT-based ceramics and broad transition peaks are evident in all samples. Dielectric constant up to 400 as well as an acceptable low dielectric loss at temperatures lower than 200°C were obtained in BNT-BT ceramics.
Male age alone predicts paternity success under sperm competition when effects of age and past mating effort are experimentally separated
Authors: Aich Upama , Head Megan L. , Fox Rebecca J. , Jennions Michael D.
Published: July 2021

Older males often perform poorly under post-copulatory sexual selection. It is unclear, however, whether reproductive senescence is because of male age itself or the accumulated costs of the higher lifetime mating effort that is usually associated with male age. To date, very few studies have accounted for mating history and sperm storage when testing the effect of male age on sperm traits, and none test how age and past mating history influence paternity success under sperm competition. Here, we experimentally manipulate male mating history to tease apart its effects from that of age on ejaculate traits and paternity in the mosquitofish,Gambusia holbrooki. We found that old, naive males had more sperm than old, experienced males, while the reverse was true for young males. By contrast, neither male age nor mating history affected sperm velocity. Finally, using artificial insemination to experimentally control the number of sperm per male, we found that old males sired significantly more offspring than young males independently of their mating history. Our results highlight that the general pattern of male reproductive senescence described in many taxa may often be affected by two naturally confounding factors, male mating history and sperm age, rather than male age itself.
Inhibition of Mul1-mediated ubiquitination promotes mitochondria-associated translation
Authors: Gao Yuan , Cardamone Maria Dafne , Kwan Julian , Orofino Joseph , Hekman Ryan , Lyons Shawn , Emili Andrew , Perissi Valentina
Published: July 2021

G-Protein Pathway Suppressor 2 (GPS2) was recently identified as an endogenous inhibitor of non-proteolytic ubiquitination mediated by the E2 ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme Ubc13. GPS2-mediated restriction of K63 ubiquitination is associated with the regulation of insulin signaling, inflammation and mitochondria-nuclear communication, however a detailed understanding of the targets of GPS2/Ubc13 activity is currently lacking, Here, we have dissected the GPS2-regulated K63 ubiquitome in mouse embryonic fibroblasts and human breast cancer cells, unexpectedly finding an enrichment for proteins involved in RNA binding and translation. Characterization of putative targets, including the RNA-binding protein PABPC1 and translation factor eiF3m, revealed a strategy for regulating the mitochondria-associated translation of selected mRNAs via Mul1-mediated ubiquitination. Our data indicate that removal of GPS2-mediated inhibition, either via genetic deletion or stress-induced nuclear translocation, promotes the ubiquitination of mitochondria-associated translation factors leading to increased expression of an adaptive antioxidant program. In light of GPS2 role in nuclear-mitochondria communication, these findings reveal an exquisite regulatory network for modulating mitochondrial gene expression through spatially coordinated transcription and translation.
Do millennials differ in conflict manifestation? Differences within the cohort
Authors: Sinha Sweta , Pandey Shivendra Kumar
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The present study aims to examine the moderation of the employee's age on the manifestation of “experience of hurt” to “commitment to future conflict” among the three intra-cohort segments of millennials. The study also examines the mediation of “perception of duplicitous organization” between hurt and “commitment to future conflict.”

Design/methodology/approach

Cross-sectional data was collected using survey method and analyzed by structural equation modelling on SPSS AMOS 25 software.

Findings

The results are based on single-source cross-sectional data. The result indicates that “perception of duplicitous organization” is positively impacted by the experience of hurt at the workplace. It also acts as a mediator between hurt and “commitment to future conflict”. There is significant moderation of age for all the relationships in the model. For instance, age moderates both the paths of hurt resulting in “perception of duplicitous organization” and aggressiveness, where the group of young employees have significantly higher path coefficients.

Practical implications

The managers need to be more considerate and interact frequently with the younger employees as they are more prone to develop aggression and are impressionable to form a “perception of duplicitous organization” after an experience of hurt. The manager needs to establish a high-quality relationship and a positive image of the organization with subordinates to prevent the manifestation of hurt to a “commitment to future conflict”.

Originality/value

To the best of the knowledge of the authors, this study is the first of its kind to study the moderation of age within the larger cohort of millennials.
A comparative analysis of financial performance of Islamic banks vis-à-vis conventional banks: evidence from Pakistan
Authors: Majeed Muhammad Tariq , Zainab Abida
Published: July 2021

Purpose

In recent years, the fast growth of Islamic banks (IBs) has generated debates among policymakers and economists about the sustainability and performance of these institutions. This paper aims to undertake a comparative analysis of the financial performance of IBs and conventional banks (CBs) in Pakistan over the period 2008–2019 to evaluate how IBs are faring compared to their conventional peers.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper considers Financial Ratio Analysis (FRA) to analyse and compare the performance of the top-10 IBs and CBs operating in Pakistan. The sample includes five full-fledged IBs and five CBs which offer Islamic windows in Pakistan. The top-five performing CBs offering Islamic windows have been selected in this study.

Findings

The results show that IBs are better capitalized, less risky and have higher liquidity as compared to CBs. In contrast, the profits of IBs are found to be lower than those of CBs.

Research limitations/implications

The study has provided an analysis of financial performance only for Pakistan. A cross-country analysis could be more representative of the performance of IBs.

Practical implications

The study infers that the size of the Islamic banking industry in Pakistan should be enhanced by opening new branches and promoting Islamic financial literacy.

Originality/value

The study assists investors, creditors, debtors and managers in making better decisions. It also provides the latest valuable information to regulators and policymakers that can be used to make rules and policies for the finance industry in Pakistan.
Single-master/multi-slave haptic teleoperation: a force control scheme
Authors: Argin Omer Faruk , Bayraktaroglu Zeki Yagiz
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to present a novel modular design framework for the haptic teleoperation of single-master/multiple-slave (SM/MS) systems with cooperating manipulators.

Design/methodology/approach

The user commands the remote-leader robot and the slave remote robot follows the leader in a leader–follower formation. The remote-slave is purely force-controlled. A virtual model of the remote environment is introduced between the local and remote environments through simulation software. Locally generated motion inputs are transmitted to the remote environment through the virtual model. A haptic coupling is designed in the virtual environment and the haptic feedback is transmitted to the user along with the forces measured in the remote environment. The controllers proposed in this work are experimentally evaluated with experienced and inexperienced users.

Findings

The proposed haptic interaction model contributes to the total force feedback and smoothens the high-frequency signals occurring at the physical interaction in the remote environment. Experimental results show that the implemented controllers including the proposed haptic interaction improve the teleoperation performances in terms of trajectory tracking. Furthermore, pure force control of the remote-slave is shown to enhance the robustness of the teleoperation against external disturbances. Satisfactory teleoperation performances are observed with both experienced and inexperienced users.

Originality/value

The proposed SM/MS teleoperation system involves a multi-purpose virtual simulator and a purely force-controlled remote-slave manipulator in a modular cooperative configuration. The uniquely defined structure of the proposed haptic coupling is used in modeling the interaction between the local and remote manipulators on the one hand, and between cooperating remote manipulators on the other.
Study workplace space occupancy: a review of measures and technologies
Authors: Zhou Yaoyi , Hua Ying , Liu Jingyang
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review the use of technologies for measuring space occupancy to guide the selection of appropriate tools for workplace post-occupancy evaluation (POE) studies. The authors focus on how actual space occupancy was measured in previous studies and the pros and cons of the different technologies and tools. This paper also addresses research gaps and directions for future research.

Design/methodology/approach

The space occupancy measures/tools are categorized based on the three types of technologies: environmental/ambient sensors, wearable sensors/smartphones and computer vision. A total of 50 studies are reviewed to identify the capabilities and limitations of these measurements.

Findings

Based on review results, the authors propose that although sensor technology can be a useful addition to the measures/tools list, a comprehensive review of the research goal, the occupants' behavior, and the environmental settings' characteristics should be conducted beforehand. Selecting appropriate technology is critical for collecting the proper behavioral data type, with a lower level of surveillance and increased validity.

Originality/value

This paper urges critical thinking about existing occupancy measures/tools across various fields, to inform the adoption and creation of new building occupancy measures. The knowledge of emerging sensor technology allows researchers to better study the temporal patterns of occupant behavior over extended periods and in a wide range of settings.
Signaling authenticity for frontline service employees
Authors: Matthews A. Lynn , Eilert Meike
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Authenticity is a complex character that is valued in service contexts. Frontline service employees (FSEs), as both brand representatives and individuals who interact with clients, can signal their authenticity to customers. The purpose of this study is to investigate how FSEs signal their authenticity to customers. The authors investigate authenticity signal themes and develop a typology of how FSEs use these signals in the workplace.

Design/methodology/approach

This research uses a multi-method approach: qualitative data were collected through in-depth interviews with FSE and customers and quantitative data were collected in a follow-up survey using a sample of financial planners.

Findings

Findings from both studies show that FSE can use signals reflecting the display of client-centricity, positive emotions, transparency and disclosure of personal information. A latent profile analysis reveals three authenticity signal profiles, differing in the extent to which FSE uses each of these signals.

Research limitations/implications

This study identifies how FSEs can shape perceptions of authenticity in a service context, thus expanding theory by integrating both personal and brand authenticity perspectives. The findings further demonstrate that authenticity can be signaled on multiple dimensions, reflecting the complex nature of this construct.

Practical implications

The findings from this research can guide managers in developing workplace policies that enable FSEs to display authenticity in various ways to customers. Managers can further use the insights from this research to identify needs for FSE training and development.

Originality/value

The authors create novel insights into how FSEs signal authenticity to customers given their dual roles as individuals and brand representatives. This study offers nuanced insights into different types of signals and their application in a service context.
Key issues influencing the future internationalization of higher education: the case of Thailand
Authors: Hines Andy , Dockiao Lakhana
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The rapidly changed global context for internationalization (IZN) over the next decade prompted a decision to use a futurist perspective for identifying issues to be considered in the organization’s next strategic plan. This paper aims to report on this project to identify current and strategic issues influencing the future strategy of the higher education (HE) IZN for Thailand on behalf of the Bureau of International Cooperation Strategy and the Office of the Higher Education Commission.

Design/methodology/approach

The research approach was a customized version of the University of Houston’s Framework Foresight method. It involved framing the domain with a description and domain map, scanning for signals of change within the domain and emerging issues analysis to produce a set of current and emerging issues. A planning step synthesizes a set of recommended actions.

Findings

The key findings reported in this paper are the identification of 14 current and emerging issues influencing the future of the IZN of HE in Thailand. The issues were organized along with the three horizons framework: H1: how are we [currently] doing? H2: what should we do next and H3, where do we want to go? The primary recommendation of this research reported on in this study is to consider the 14 issues for inclusion into the next strategic plan. Seven specific strategic options mapped over three phases were identified as well. The research reported here was carried out for Thailand, but the process could easily be adapted by other countries and other topics.

Research limitations/implications

The modified version of the University of Houston Framework Foresight approach has been applied successfully to many topics. The topic explored here is focused on one nation, Thailand. The authors feel the lessons are, however, broadly applicable.

Practical implications

The ability to use a futurist perspective to identify current and emerging issues is highlighted. The organizing of the issues using the three horizons framework proved to be particularly useful in helping the client to develop a sense of timing regarding the future, that is, when and to what degree to pay attention to the many issues that typically confront any organization.

Originality/value

The use of the three horizons framework in the analysis of the emerging issues provide benefits in two ways in situating the likely timing of signals of change in horizon scanning and “scan hits” both scanning for the identification of issues and organizing the resulting current and emerging issues along the three horizons with H1 current issues: how are we [currently] doing?; H2 emerging issues: what should we do next and H3 emerging issues, where do we want to go? The paper also includes a section exploring the impact of Covid-19 on the likely timing of the issues identified just before the pandemic hit, finding that timing of some issues would speed up, some would stay the same and some would slow down.
Uncovering the unmet needs among psoriasis patients in the Asia‐Pacific region
Authors: Tada Yayoi , Jo Seong Jin , Huang Yu‐Huei , Wahking Bryan , Lee Bong Young , Gowindah Regina , Fernández‐Peñas Pablo
Published: July 2021

Studies on the psychosocial and emotional burden of psoriasis have been extensive; however, there is limited knowledge and awareness of patients’ attitude and behavior towards psoriasis treatment. To understand psoriasis patients’ attitude and behavior towards treatment of psoriasis, especially those treated with biologics, a multi‐stage study qualitative and quantitative methodology was conducted among psoriasis patients. An online survey was conducted with 45 moderate‐to‐severe psoriasis patients each in Australia, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan for 20 min. This was followed by qualitative in‐depth interviews conducted among psoriasis patients in Australia (n = 3) and Japan (n = 2) for 60 min. All of the findings were workshopped with key opinion leaders and patient advisory groups to identify potential solutions addressing patients’ unmet needs. Five common insights were identified across the region, highlighting patients’ attitude and behavior towards psoriasis treatment, especially for those treated with biologics. These insights comprised the following: (i) one of the key factors driving patients’ treatment choice included their ability to enjoy clear skin for longer period (68%); (ii) bio‐maintenance patients had a higher expectation (4.9 months) of how long their skin could stay clear, compared to their pre‐biologics initiation days (2.9 months); (iii) once a good response is achieved, bio‐maintenance patients were more concerned about symptoms returning (44%) than development of side‐effects (19%); (iv) bio‐maintenance patients felt psychologically and physically affected during flare‐ups despite being on more efficacious treatment; and (v) bio‐maintenance patients still felt they were at risk of flare‐ups (4.5/7), almost similar risk perception as non‐biologics patients (4.9/7). Findings from this study showed that psoriasis patients look for treatment with the least risk of flare‐ups so that they were able to enjoy clear skin for a long time.
Rapid determination of eight benzodiazepines in suspected counterfeit pharmaceuticals using surface‐enhanced Raman scattering with handheld Raman spectrometers
Authors: Kimani Martin M. , Lanzarotta Adam , Batson JaCinta S.
Published: July 2021

The excessive prescription of benzodiazepines is putting more people at risk of dependence on these drugs and is exacerbating the fatal overdose toll of opioids. A rapid and sensitive SERS method has been developed for trace detection of select benzodiazepines in low‐dosage suspect counterfeit tablets, capsules, and injectable solutions using two different portable handheld Raman spectrometers equipped with either a 785‐nm laser or a 1064‐nm laser. A total of 169 samples and blanks were examined using five handheld Raman spectrometers, which provided data set of 729 examinations. The extraction/SERS procedures yielded true positive rates above 90% for alprazolam, diazepam, and midazolam using the 1064‐nm device and yielded true positive rates above 95% for alprazolam, clonazepam, diazepam, estazolam, midazolam, and temazepam using the 785‐nm device; however, the extraction/SERS procedures yielded true positive rates below 60% for lorazepam and triazolam. The minimum concentration (Cmin) of the benzodiazepine standards that reproducibly yielded a positive match ranged from 1 to 10 μg/ml using the 1064‐nm laser device and from 0.5 to 50 μg/ml using the 785‐nm laser device. For the analysis of authentic and suspect counterfeit tablets containing these benzodiazepines, the measured Cmin ranged between 10 and 15 µg per tablet or capsule for 1064‐nm laser device and 1–100 µg per tablet or capsule for 785‐nm laser device. The developed methods are simple, rapid, and ideal for screening suspect benzodiazepine‐containing pharmaceutical products at satellite laboratories located within or near international mail facilities and express courier hubs.
Bats, Parachutes and Bridges: How Can Epidemiologists Improve Global Health Research Practice?
Authors: Alba Sandra
Published: July 2021

Epidemiologist Sandra Alba is part of a team that developed a new set of guidelines to address issues of research integrity and fairness in international health research collaborations. She explains what the guidelines hope to achieve, and how
From the Apollo Programme to the EM Algorithm and Beyond
Authors: Laird Nan , Hirschland Edward C.
Published: July 2021

Nan Laird is the Harvey V. Fineberg professor of biostatistics (emerita) at the Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, and the winner of the 2021 International Prize in Statistics. In this interview with Ed Hirschland, she discusses her career and contributions
Books
Authors: Shalabh
Published: July 2021

Reviews of David Hand's Dark Data and other titles.
Novel staphylococci nucH taxonomical marker used in identification of human‐associated Staphylococcus succinus subsp. casei
Authors: Garbacz Katarzyna , Kotłowski Roman , Kwapisz Ewa
Published: July 2021

The aim of our study was to assess the sequencing of unique nucH gene fragment based on performed bioinformatics analysis as a novel diagnostic method for the identification of difficult to identify staphylococcal human pathogenic strains. Initially, PCR‐RFLP‐rrn analysis specific to the spacers between 16SrDNA and 23SrDNA followed by HhaI restriction analysis was performed. Further, sequencing of nucH and 16S rDNA genes fragments was carried out. Blast analysis from the NCBI showed 99% similarity of nucH gene fragment with reference genomic DNA for S. succinus with the accession no. CP018199. This result was also confirmed by MALDI‐TOF analysis. Sequencing analysis of 16S rDNA gene fragment allowed for 100% identification of two strains isolated from human samples as Staphylococus succinus subsp. casei. Sequencing of identified unique nucH gene fragment seems to be a promising diagnostic assay for the identification of Staphylococcus species. Based on our results, we can assume that probably other Staphylococcus species originated from different clinical samples could be identified using nucH gene sequencing method we developed. However, an extension of the genetic databases with a substantially bigger number of reference staphylococcal species for nucH gene is needed to make this method better than widely used standard 16S rDNA sequencing assay. To the best of our knowledge, it is the second published isolation of S. succinus subsp. casei from human clinical specimens. Moreover, possibility of decreasing the number of dimensions from multi‐PCR‐bands results using ribotyping analysis is also described.
Is the Visual Analogue Scale inferior to the Pelvic Organ Prolapse Distress Inventory for assessing symptom bother of pelvic organ prolapse?
Authors: Yu Hongxia , Shek Ka Lai , Gillor Moshe , Descallar Joseph , Dietz Hans Peter
Published: July 2021

Aims

Disease‐specific validated questionnaires are used to quantify symptom severity, but they are time consuming to complete and evaluate. A Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) assessment of bother is simpler and faster. The aim of this study is to compare VAS with individual and composite pelvic floor disability index‐short form 20 items in predicting significant pelvic organ prolapse (POP).

Methods

A retrospective analysis of data was obtained at a tertiary urogynaecological clinic between February 2017 and August 2018. All women filled out the PFDI‐20 and underwent a standardised physician‐directed interview, POP‐Q and translabial ultrasound. Women with symptoms of POP were asked to indicate the degree of bother using a VAS. Receiver operating characteristic curves were used to evaluate the performance of individual Pelvic Organ Prolapse Distress Inventory (POPDI)‐6 items, the six‐item composite POPDI‐6 score, and VAS in predicting significant POP on clinical and ultrasound examination.

Results

The complete data sets of 231 women were analysed. Median VAS for POP was 2.9 (range 0–10). Median POPDI‐6 individual and composite scores for items one to six were 2, 2, 2, 1, 2, 0 (all range 0–4) and 9 (range 0–22), respectively. The majority had significant prolapse on clinical examination (n = 195, 84%) and on ultrasound (n = 192, 83%). The composite POPDI‐6 prolapse score provided areas under the curve of 0.68 and 0.64 for the prediction of clinical and sonographic POP, compared to 0.74 and 0.69, respectively, for VAS. The difference was not significant (P = 0.3 and 0.8, respectively).

Conclusions

The VAS score was not inferior to the POPDI‐6 in predicting significant POP. It has the potential to simplify the assessment of symptom severity.
Silver recycling in the Viking Age: Theoretical and analytical approaches
Authors: Kershaw Jane , Merkel Stephen W.
Published: July 2021

The recycling (remelting) of precious metals is commonly seen as a major impediment in provenancing studies. Yet in cases where known silver sources are both limited and geochemically well‐characterized, there are opportunities to evaluate silver flows at different temporal and geographical scales. Here, we provide a theoretical and analytical framework for assessing the impact of precious metal recycling in a historical context in which silver remelting was the norm: Viking Age Scandinavia (c.800–1050 ce). Harnessing new, large‐scale, Pb isotope and trace element datasets, we demonstrate the potential for revealing the contribution of Western European and Islamic silver sources to discrete archaeological assemblages and defined coin and artefact groups. We then use chemical markers of change in imported silver to assess the longevity of circulating silver stocks. Rather than acting as a barrier to understanding, recycling provides a lens through which to evaluate long‐distance trade networks, the movement of silver and the frequency of recycling events.
OSL dating of Zhuangbianshan site in the humid subtropical coastal region of China
Authors: Jin Jianhui , Li Fusheng , Zuo Xinxin , Huang Yunming , Ling Zhiyong , Li Zhizhong
Published: July 2021

Establishing a reliable chronology is the basis of archaeological research; this is normally undertaken using radiocarbon dating and, more recently, optically stimulated luminescence (OSL). The application of the latter to Neolithic sites in the Fujian Province of China is still quite limited. In this study, a total of eight OSL samples were collected from the Zhuangbianshan site (ZBS). The single‐aliquot regenerative‐dose (SAR) protocol was applied to coarse silt (38–63 μm) quartz. The results showed that the 38–63 μm grains appeared to be well bleached. The ages for the samples range from 5.5 to 3.3 ka for the ZBS sections, which is in general internally coherent within the limits of experimental errors and with respect to their stratigraphical order. Two OSL ages (ZBSH03‐2 and ZBST05H) of the ZBS were significantly older than their expected archaeological ages, while most of those from the ZBS core generally showed good agreement with their archaeological ages and stratigraphical succession. Based on the OSL ages, two periods (~6.3 and 3.5–3.3 ka, approximately) of rapid cultural accumulation can be identified at this site. These investigations indicate that the OSL technique is an effective method with which to date Holocene cultural accumulations, especially sites in the humid subtropical areas of South China where organic carbon material is sparse.
SET‐NUP214 and MLL cooperatively regulate the promoter activity of the HoxA10 gene
Authors: Cigdem Sadik , Saito Shoko , Nishikata Daiki , Nagata Kyosuke , Okuwaki Mitsuru
Published: July 2021

SET‐Nup214 is a recurrent fusion gene that is mainly observed in T‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T‐ALL). Dysregulation of homeobox (Hox) genes is frequently observed in patients with leukemia. Consistent with this, HoxA genes are upregulated in the SET‐Nup214 + T‐ALL cell line and patients. Although SET‐Nup214 has been reported to be recruited to the promoter regions of HoxA genes, the detailed mechanisms of how SET‐Nup214 specifically binds to HoxA gene promoters and regulates HoxA gene expression are not known. In this study, we demonstrated that SET‐Nup214 interacts with MLL via the SET acidic region of SET‐Nup214. SET‐Nup214 and MLL cooperatively enhance the promoter activity of the HoxA10 gene. Neither the SET region alone nor the Nup214 region alone sufficiently enhanced the HoxA10 gene promoter. Our results indicated that the SET portion of the SET‐Nup214‐fusion protein is important for interactions with MLL and transcription enhancement of the HoxA10 gene. Thus, our study will contribute to the understanding of how SET‐Nup214 and MLL disturb the expression of HoxA10 gene in leukemia.
lnc94638 is a testis‐specific long non‐coding RNA involved in spermatozoa formation in Zeugodacus cucurbitae (Coquillett)
Authors: Li W.‐J. , Wei D. , Han H.‐L. , Song Y.‐J. , Wang Y. , Xu H.‐Q. , Smagghe G. , Wang J.‐J.
Published: July 2021

Long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) generally display tissue‐specific distributions, and testis‐specific lncRNAs form the highest proportion of lncRNAs in many species. Here, we presented a detailed analysis of testis‐specific lncRNAs in the melon fly, Zeugodacus cucurbitae, a highly destructive insect pest of cucurbitaceous and other related crops. Most testis‐specific lncRNAs were found to be long intergenic non‐coding RNAs (lincRNA). The size distribution of these lncRNAs ranged between 600 and 1000 nucleotides. Testis‐specific lncRNAs that harboured one isoform number and two exons were the most abundant. Compared to other male tissues, the testis had more highly expressed lncRNAs. The quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction results of 10 randomly selected testis‐specific lncRNAs showed expression patterns consistent with RNA‐seq data. Further analysis of the most highly expressed testis‐specific lncRNA, lnc94638, was undertaken. Fluorescent in situ hybridization assays localized lnc94638 to the apical region of the testis that contains mature spermatozoa. RNA interference‐mediated knockdown of lnc94638 expression reduced spermatozoa numbers and impaired the fertility of Z. cucurbitae male. This study provides a catalogue of testis‐specific lncRNAs, shows that the testis‐specific lnc94638 is involved in spermatogenesis and has the potential to be used for treating male sterility.
On the reliability estimation of stochastic binary systems
Authors: Cancela Héctor , Murray Leslie , Robledo Franco , Romero Pablo , Sartor Pablo
Published: July 2021

A stochastic binary system (SBS) is a multicomponent on‐off system subject to random independent failures on its components. After potential failures, the state of the subsystem is ruled by a logical function (called structure function) that determines whether the system is operational or not. A SBS serves as a natural generalization of network reliability analysis, where the goal is to find the probability of correct operation of the system (in terms of connectivity, network diameter, or different measures of success). A particular subclass of interest is stochastic monotone binary systems (SMBS), which are characterized by nondecreasing structure. We explore the combinatorics of SBS, which provide building blocks for system reliability estimation, looking at minimal nonoperational subsystems, called mincuts. One key concept to understand the underlying combinatorics of SBS is duality. As methods for exact evaluation take exponential time, we discuss the use of Monte Carlo algorithms. In particular, we discuss the F‐Monte Carlo method for estimating the reliability polynomial for homogeneous SBS, the recursive variance reduction for SMBS, which builds upon the efficient determination of mincuts, and three additional methods that combine in different ways the well‐known techniques of permutation Monte Carlo and splitting. These last three methods are based on a stochastic process called the creation process, a temporal evolution of the SBS which is static by definition. All the methods are compared using different topologies, showing large efficiency gains over the basic Monte Carlo scheme.