bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“Digesting the abundance of idol matter” key factors in personal information management experiences of selected social science faculty
Authors: Nwagwu Williams
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the personal information management (PIM) behaviours of social science faculty in Africa. The study examined the experiences and encounters of selected social scientists in Africa in organising and finding and re-finding of the information they previously created or stored. More specifically, the study sought to examine how faculty keep and refind information, the files and folders in which they store the information. Also, the study examined the nature and characteristics of faculty information spaces with particular respect to electronic documents including emails and paper documents.

Design/methodology/approach

Sample survey research design and a mixed methods approach consisting of qualitative and quantitative were used. Data was collected using a discursive technique, an interview schedule and a questionnaire. Data analysis was conducted using factorial analysis of mixed data design, guided by a combination of category and codes identification using NVivo and Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) 17. Principal component analysis (PCA) of factor analysis was executed to identify key components.

Findings

Eleven issues, namely, time, infrastructure, importance of the information, folder/file management, document characteristics and organisational context played significant roles in the PIM behaviours of the respondents. Others were importance of the information, document overload, memory, workload and computer literacy. PCA extracted four major components, namely, document overload, time, computer literacy and importance of the information.

Research limitations/implications

An expansion in the number of faculty involved in this study would probably yield a more reliable outcome. Extending the study to cover Africa would also yield a more applicable result.

Practical implications

The key PIM issues identified in this study, namely, document overload, time, computer literacy and importance of the information should constitute the focus of continuous information literacy education aimed at improving PIM social scientists’ faculty in Africa.

Social implications

Improved PIM of social science faculty will result to improved research productivity and good health.

Originality/value

PIM of social scientists has not been examined in the literature, and yet it is crucial for further understanding their learning and information behaviours, and improving their productivity. The design and administration of a questionnaire constructed based on codes extracted from qualitative and discursive sessions to the same respondents from whom the qualitative data was collected makes the findings very strong. A further deployment of factorial analysis of mixed data design to handle qualitative data makes the contribution of the study very significant.
Alteration in phenological parameters, above‐ and belowground biomass, nutrient contents, and their pools with phenological stages of Salicornia brachiata Roxb
Authors: Rathore Aditya P. , Chaudhary Doongar R. , Jha Bhavanath
Published: June 2021

The present study aimed to examine the alteration in phenological parameters, above‐ and belowground biomass, nutrient contents, and nutrient pools at different phenological stages (seedling, vegetative, flowering, senescence start, senescence complete, and dry stage) of Salicornia brachiata Roxb. According to our results, plant height was significantly higher at the senescence start, senescence complete, and dry stages; however, the water content was significantly higher at the seedling stage. Furthermore, the above‐ and belowground biomass of S. brachiata was recorded in the range between 0.57–533.69 g m−2 and 0.12–15.91 g m−2, respectively while the highest above‐ and belowground biomass was documented at the senescence start stage. The nutrient contents of C, N, P, Na+, K+, Ca2+, Mg2+, and Cl− in above‐ and belowground biomass were estimated and we found significant spatial and stage‐wise variations. The aboveground pools of carbon (66.52 g m−2), phosphorus (0.40 g m−2), sodium (39.81 g m−2), potassium (3.76 g m−2), magnesium (2.85 g m−2), and chloride (64.66 g m−2) were higher at the senescence start stage. The averaged bioaccumulation and translocation factors for Na+ were 8.91 and 3.66, respectively which indicated the phytoremediation capacity of S. brachiata of salt‐affected soils. The results of the present study witnessed significant changes in phenological parameters, above‐ and belowground biomass, nutrient contents, and their pools with the phenological stages of S. brachiata. Furthermore, present findings suggest that S. brachiata may be utilized for the coastal development program of India and rehabilitation of salt‐affected soils.
Anticancer activity of protein fractions from chia (Salvia hispanica L.)
Authors: Quintal‐Bojórquez Nidia del Carmen , Carrillo‐Cocom Leydi Maribel , Hernández‐Álvarez Alan Javier , Segura‐Campos Maira Rubí
Published: June 2021

Salvia hispanica demonstrated to be a source of protein fractions with anticancer activity. The effect of the protein fractions <1, 1–3, and 3–5 kDa, obtained by ultrafiltration of the S. hispanica hydrolysate, was evaluated on the cellular viability of four cancer cell lines (MCF‐7, Caco2, PC‐3, and HepG2) and on human fibroblasts (hFB) at different concentrations (0.25, 0.5, 0.75, and 1 mg/ml). The protein fractions did not show cytotoxic effects on hFB. The protein fraction <1 kDa at 1 mg/ml showed the highest statistical effect on the cellular viability of all evaluated cancer lines; thus, its amino acid sequence was analyzed. From the multicriteria decision analysis of the peptide sequences obtained by mass spectrometry, the peptide KLKKNL with potential anticancer activity was selected. In conclusion, protein fractions could represent a therapeutic option for cancer treatment. However, further investigations are necessary to establish conclusive arguments.

Practical Application

The work of this article is based on the background of the increasing potential of peptides for the treatment of chronic diseases. The results of this study present peptides of low molecular weight, obtained from chia seeds, as a potential adjuvant option for cancer treatment.
Lung squamous cell carcinoma with severe hypomagnesemia due to cisplatin plus gemcitabine in combination with necitumumab therapy: A case report
Authors: Nakao Akira , Inoue Hiroyuki , Osaki Yusuke , Hirano Ryosuke , Harada Taishi , Aoyama Takashi , Igata Fumiyasu , Fujita Masaki
Published: June 2021

A 72‐year‐old man, diagnosed with advanced lung squamous cell carcinoma, was administered of cisplatin plus gemcitabine with necitumumab, a human monoclonal antibody that binds to the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), as a sixth‐line treatment. Tumor shrinkage was observed, but asymptomatic grade 4 hypomagnesemia occurred on day 8 of the second cycle. He received magnesium replenishment and hypomagnesemia recovered on day 40, but tumor progression was observed during the period of magnesium correction. Hypomagnesemia is known as a major adverse event of treatment with anti‐EGFR antibodies, but there have been no case reports of severe hypomagnesemia or its clinical course.
Oocyte aging is controlled by mitogen‐activated protein kinase signaling
Authors: Achache Hanna , Falk Roni , Lerner Noam , Beatus Tsevi , Tzur Yonatan B.
Published: June 2021

Oogenesis is one of the first processes to fail during aging. In women, most oocytes cannot successfully complete meiotic divisions already during the fourth decade of life. Studies of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans have uncovered conserved genetic pathways that control lifespan, but our knowledge regarding reproductive aging in worms and humans is limited. Specifically, little is known about germline internal signals that dictate the oogonial biological clock. Here, we report a thorough characterization of the changes in the worm germline during aging. We found that shortly after ovulation halts, germline proliferation declines, while apoptosis continues, leading to a gradual reduction in germ cell numbers. In late aging stages, we observed that meiotic progression is disturbed and crossover designation and DNA double‐strand break repair decrease. In addition, we detected a decline in the quality of mature oocytes during aging, as reflected by decreasing size and elongation of interhomolog distance, a phenotype also observed in human oocytes. Many of these altered processes were previously attributed to MAPK signaling variations in young worms. In support of this, we observed changes in activation dynamics of MPK‐1 during aging. We therefore tested the hypothesis that MAPK controls oocyte quality in aged worms using both genetic and pharmacological tools. We found that in mutants with high levels of activated MPK‐1, oocyte quality deteriorates more rapidly than in wild‐type worms, whereas reduction of MPK‐1 levels enhances quality. Thus, our data suggest that MAPK signaling controls germline aging and could be used to attenuate the rate of oogenesis quality decline.
Unraveling preferences for religious ties in food transactions: A consumer perspective
Authors: D'Haene Eline , Tur Cardona Juan , Speelman Stijn , Schoors Koen , D'Haese Marijke
Published: June 2021

Food choices are key in communicating religious identities and marking religious boundaries. Whereas the literature has focused on religion's impact on food habits, the effect of religion on food market exchanges remains largely unexplored. Using the Ethiopian milk market as a case study, we conduct a series of innovative experimental choice tasks with urban dairy consumers to elicit their preferences for milk seller characteristics. In the choice tasks, milk seller profiles are constructed using five relevant attributes: milk price, distance to the selling point, seller type, seller gender, and seller religious affiliation. We observe consumer preferences for lower milk prices, shorter distances, and dairy farmers over milk shops. When accounting for attribute non‐attendance, we find that consumers who take religion into account prefer co‐religious sellers, and that consumers who take gender into account generally prefer female sellers. Our results enrich our understanding of the role of religion in purchase behavior and market segmentation.
Relapse risk factors for patients with comorbid affective disorders and substance abuse disorders from an intensive treatment unit
Authors: Wang Mike , Pinilla Gabriel , Leung Curtis , Peddada Apoorva , Yu Eileen , Akmal Sarfraz , Cha Youngjae , Dyson Laketa , Kumar Anupama , Kaplin Adam
Published: June 2021

Background and Objectives

The prevalence of substance use disorders (SUD), particularly involving opiates and benzodiazepines, has increased to the detriment of public health and the economy. Here, we evaluate relapse factors among the high‐risk demographic of patients with SUD and comorbid affective disorders.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of 76 patients discharged after detoxification and simultaneous psychiatric care for concomitant affective disorders and SUDs. Relapse was assessed by two independent evaluators via postdischarge chart review, which included state‐wide healthcare utilization, by patient, through healthcare information exchange systems. A Cox Hazards analysis was performed to characterize relapse risk factors.

Results

Benzodiazepine use, admission through the emergency department (ED) rather than direct admission, frequent ED use in the preceding year, and history of prior attendance at multiple detoxification programs were risk factors for shortened time‐to‐relapse. Polysubstance use and intravenous drug use prolonged time to relapse.

Discussion and Conclusions

Notable findings include the significant relapse risk associated with benzodiazepine abuse and frequent prior ED utilization. These risk factors could reflect a number of underlying mediators for relapse, including anxiety, disease burden, and malingering. Additionally, this study recapitulates the observation in other patient populations that the majority of health resource utilization is attributed to a small population of patients.

Scientific Significance

This study is the first to identify relapse predictors among dual‐diagnosis affective disorder and SUD patients in survival analysis, and replicates the alarming and largely unknown effect that benzodiazepines have on increasing relapse risk.
Placental characteristics in different types of selective fetal growth restriction in monochorionic diamniotic twins
Authors: Wang Xueju , Li Luyao , Yuan Pengbo , Zhao Yangyu , Wei Yuan
Published: June 2021

Introduction

This study aimed to explore the differences in placental characteristics among three types of selective fetal growth restriction (sFGR) in monochorionic diamniotic twin pregnancies.

Material and methods

A total of 123 placentas with sFGR between April 2013 and October 2019 were retrospectively analyzed after dye injection. Placental characteristics were compared among the three types.

Results

The gestational age at diagnosis and delivery was less in sFGR II and III than in sFGR I (22.9 [21.7–33.6], 23.3 [20.0–26.1] and 25.7 [19.0–35.0] weeks, p < 0.001; 32.3 [31.6–35.1], 34.1 [29.9–34.7] and 35.5 [34.0–37.0] weeks, p < 0.001). The birthweight discordance ratio was less in sFGR I than in sFGR II (0.28 [0.14–0.43] and 0.30 [0.23–0.37], p < 0.001). The prevalence of a thick artery–artery anastomosis was higher in sFGR III than in sFGR I or II (81.8%, 44.9% and 48.6%, p = 0.010). The placental territory discordance ratio was higher in sFGR II and III than in sFGR I (0.60 [0.17–0.88], 0.60 [0.01–0.80] and 0.50 [0.01–0.71], p = 0.001).

Conclusions

Compared with sFGR I, the earlier onset time of sFGR II and III might be due to their higher placental territory discordance. The prevalence of thick artery–artery anastomoses was expected to be higher in sFGR III than in sFGR I or II.
Test‐dose pharmacokinetics guided melphalan dose adjustment in reduced intensity conditioning allogeneic transplant for non‐malignant disorders
Authors: Chandra Sharat , Mizuno Kana , Zhao Junfang , Davies Stella M. , Marsh Rebecca A. , Fukuda Tsuyoshi , Setchell Kenneth D. R. , Vinks Alexander A. , Mehta Parinda A.
Published: June 2021

Aims

We studied melphalan pharmacokinetics (PK) and feasibility of melphalan full‐dose adjustment based on test‐dose PK in children and young adults with non‐malignant disorders (NMD) undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) using reduced intensity conditioning (RIC) containing alemtuzumab, fludarabine and melphalan.

Methods

Patients received test‐dose melphalan (10% of planned full‐dose) prior to conditioning. Blood samples for PK were obtained around test and full‐dose melphalan (140 mg/m2 or 4.7 mg/kg in patients <10 kg). Melphalan concentration was measured by liquid chromatography electrospray ionization tandem mass‐spectrometry assay and data were analysed using a population‐PK model and Bayesian estimation. Test and full‐dose melphalan clearance estimates were evaluated by pairwise Wilcoxon test and Bland–Altman plot.

Results

Twenty‐four patients undergoing 25 transplants were included in the final analysis. Patients received standard full‐dose melphalan in 17 transplants, with median area under the concentration–time curve (AUC) of 5.5 mg*h/L (range, 3.0–9.5 mg*h/L). Patients received test‐dose melphalan in 23 transplants with a test‐dose PK predicted full‐dose AUC range of 2.9–16.8 mg*h/L. In seven transplants where patients had baseline organ impairment, test‐dose PK predicted higher exposure for standard full‐dose (median AUC 13.8 mg*h/L). Melphalan full‐dose was adjusted in these patients, with achievement of desired target AUC (3.6–5.4 mg*h/L) and no excess toxicity. Mean ratio of test‐dose clearance to full‐dose clearance was 1.03. Twenty of 22 patients (91%) were within the 95% confidence intervals of the clearance ratio.

Conclusion

Melphalan test‐dose PK reliably predicts full‐dose PK and allows for accurate adjustment of full‐dose melphalan in RIC‐HCT for NMD. This approach can avoid excess toxicity from increased systemic exposure, especially in patients with organ impairment.
Risk of recurrent venous thromboembolism in patients with autoimmune diseases: data from the Registro Informatizado de Enfermedad TromboEmbólica (RIETE) registry
Authors: Borjas Howard Jaime , Ruiz‐Sada Pablo , de Leeuw Karina , López‐Jiménez Luciano , Font Carme , Marchena Pablo Javier , Madridano Olga , Debourdeau Philippe , Meijer Karina , Monreal Manuel ,   the Registro Informatizado de Enfermedad TromboEmbólica (RIETE) Investigators
Published: June 2021

Autoimmune disease is a risk factor for first incident venous thromboembolism (VTE). However, data on the risk of recurrent VTE in people with autoimmune disease is sparse. We explored the risk of recurrent VTE using the RIETE registry, comparing people with autoimmune disease (n = 1305) to those without (n = 50608). Overall rates were 6.5 and 5.1 recurrent VTE/100 years for patients with autoimmune disease vs controls, respectively. After adjustment for sex and unprovoked/provoked VTE yielded an adjusted hazard ratio of 1.29 (95%CI 1.03‐1.62). The analysis was limited by short median follow up time (161 days overall), precluding definitive conclusions on recurrent VTE risks.
Using counterfactual thinking theory to change alcohol protective behavioural strategy use intentions
Authors: De Leon Ardhys N. , Dvorak Robert D. , Smallman Rachel , Arthur Kianna , Piercey Cianna
Published: June 2021

Objectives

Despite numerous drinking interventions, alcohol use among college students remains a significant problem. Typically activated after negative events, counterfactual thinking is a cognitive process that contrasts reality with an imagined better alternative. As a result, counterfactual thinking highlights potential causal links between problematic behaviours and negative outcomes, which can strengthen intentions to change behaviour. Recent research has found that modifying behavioural intentions to engage in protective behavioural strategies (PBS) has led to increased PBS use and reduced alcohol outcomes. The current study evaluated counterfactual thinking as a way to increase PBS use intentions.

Design

Intervention US study with college student drinkers.

Methods

A sample of college students (n = 466) completed a web‐based assessment of demographics, drinking, alcohol consequences, and PBS use. Those who endorsed an adverse drinking event were randomly assigned to an intervention condition (Control, Negative event only, Negative event with description, or Negative event with counterfactual). Following the intervention, participants reported intentions to engage in each PBS subtype over the next week.

Results

Relative to control, the counterfactual condition resulted in greater PBS use intentions across all subtypes. Neither the negative event only nor the negative event with description resulted in higher PBS use intentions, relative to control. Importantly, the control group did not report whether they experienced a negative event; thus, we cannot definitively determine the effect this may have on the data.

Conclusions

This study provides a new theory‐driven avenue for alcohol use interventions utilizing counterfactual thinking to enhance safe drinking intentions.
Proximity to high densities of pastoral settlements reduces grassland regrowth in a protected tropical savanna
Authors: Wana Desalegn , Smith Stuart W. , Coleman Kjirsten E. R. , Speed James D. M.
Published: June 2021

Sedentarization of pastoralist communities is reshaping the structure and functioning of tropical savannas. Of particular concern is how permanent pastoral settlements change grassland vegetation inside “protected” areas. In this study, we investigate the spatial impact of pastoral settlements on grassland regrowth in Nech Sar National Park, Ethiopia. Within the National Park, we established herbivore exclosures across the central grassland plains at varying distances from a high concentration of pastoral settlements. Plant species composition, biomass, and regrowth after clipping were measured every 6 months, inside and outside exclosures in close proximity and further away from pastoral settlements. After 18 months, close proximity to high densities of pastoral settlements negatively influenced grassland regrowth compared to further away from pastoral settlements. Excluding herbivores resulted in lower regrowth compared to grazed swards independent of distance from high densities of pastoral settlements. Cover of the dominant grass species Bothriochloa insculpta was lower when grazed and following clipping, whereas Chrysopogon plumulosus cover was higher closer to settlements. These grasses were dominant across the plain; yet further away from settlements there was a higher number of co‐dominant grassland species. These findings suggest that subtle changes in grassland community composition, likely following livestock grazing, contribute to spatial differences in savanna grassland regrowth near to and far from pastoral settlements. Furthermore, specific grassland species may be used as indicators of the wider spatial impact of pastoral settlement sedentarization on savanna regrowth.
Using a ‘Family Language Policy’ lens to explore the dynamic and relational nature of child agency
Authors: Smith‐Christmas Cassie
Published: June 2021

This article contributes to a dialogue between childhood studies and the sociolinguistic subfield ‘Family Language Policy’ (‘FLP’). The article argues that the two fields provide complementary vantage points for exploring child agency. It explains a revised version of a model I developed to conceptualise child agency in FLP, consisting of four intersecting dimensions: compliance regimes; linguistic norms; linguistic competence and generational positioning (Smith‐Christmas,Handbook of home language maintenance and development. De Gruyter Mouton, pp. 218–235, 2020a). The article examines two conversational excerpts as a means to illustrating the dynamic and relational nature of child agency and how it is bothshaped byas well asshapesinteractional practices over time and space.
‘Self’ (ziji), ‘others’ (taren) and ‘collective’ (jiti): Friendships at school embedded with China's Confucian–collectivist sociocultural values
Authors: Zhu Yan
Published: June 2021

Friendship, an important type of interpersonal relationship, has been studied in various disciplines. When studying friendship, sociologists highlight the importance of placing friendships in context to build up a connection between friendship, a type of interpersonal relationship between individuals, and the surrounding social and cultural environment. In sociological studies of friendship, children's friendships in the Chinese context have not been explored thoroughly. To contribute to closing this gap, this article places children's peer friendships in a rural Chinese primary boarding school context and focuses on exploring Chinese Confucian–collectivist sociocultural values that emerged in these children's daily practices of peer friendships.
Early peri‐implant bone loss as a predictor for peri‐implantitis: A 10‐year prospective cohort study
Authors: Windael Simon , Collaert Bruno , De Buyser Stefanie , De Bruyn Hugo , Vervaeke Stijn
Published: June 2021

Purpose

To evaluate the effect of early bone loss (EBL), on long‐term bone stability and future peri‐implantitis development.

Materials and methods

Patients referred for implant placement between 2005 and 2009 were consecutively treated and followed for 10 years. After 10 years, patients were invited for a scientific diagnostic visit to evaluate implant survival and bone loss. Bone level changes were compared with baseline. Non‐parametric testing was performed in cross‐tabs (Pearson Chi‐square and Fishers's exact test). Kaplan–Meier‐estimated survival curves were plotted for different thresholds for EBL at different timepoints. Generalized linear mixed models with binomial distribution and logit link for peri‐implantitis were fitted. An adjusted logistic mixed model was made to evaluate peri‐implantitis, in relation with smoking status, history of periodontitis, and EBL > 0.5 mm.

Results

Four hundred and seven patients (mean age of 64.86 years [range 28–92, SD 10.11]), with 1482 implants, responded to the 10‐year recall invitation. After an average follow‐up time of 10.66 years (range 10–14, SD 0.87), implant survival was 94.74%. Mean crestal bone loss after 10 years was 0.81 mm (SD 1.58, range 0.00–17.00). One hundred and seventy five implants in 76 patients had peri‐implantitis (11.8% on implant level, 18.7% on patient level). EBL of 0.5, 1, and 2 mm were significant predictors for peri‐implantitis and implant loss after 10 years. Implants with EBL ≥0.5 mm during the first year of function showed a 5.43 times higher odds for future peri‐implantitis development. Probability in developing peri‐implantitis was 52.06% when smoking, Periodontal history and EBL of >0.5 mm was combined.

Conclusion

The present study suggests that EBL is a predictor for long‐term peri‐implant pathology, with a significant higher risk for peri‐implantitis when early bone loss exceeds the thresholds of 0.5 and 1 mm, especially when additional risk factors such as smoking or susceptibility for periodontal disease prior to implant treatment are present.

Clinical trial registration number B670201524796.
Tracking changes in age distribution of head and neck cancer in the United States from 1975 to2016
Authors: Bajpai Shilpika , Zhang Nan , Lott David G.
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Several independent studies report an alarming increase in patients younger than 40 being diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma. There is currently a lack of available data clearly tracking changes in the age distribution of head and neck cancer (HNC) within the United States. This study attempts to elucidate any trends in oral cavity, oropharynx, larynx and hypopharynx cancer age distribution in the United States population from 1975 to 2016. Unlike previous studies, this paper does not track incidence but rather reports proportional changes of prevalence within age cohorts over time.

Methods

This is a retrospective chart review centred on data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Program of the National Cancer Institute (NCI). Each decade interval from 1975 to 2016 displays the proportion of HNC patients, classified by primary tumour subsite, within each age cohort.

Results

Mean age at diagnosis increased for all subsites except oropharynx. Oropharyngeal cancer was the only subsite to show a decrease in the mean age at diagnosis. In addition, oropharyngeal cancer was the only subsite to demonstrate an overall increase in proportional prevalence, largely due to increased incidence in middle‐age (40–59 years) patients. Cancers of the oral cavity were the only subset to show a true increase in the proportion of young (0–39 years) patients, but its mean age at diagnosis still increased. When stratifying by gender, the proportion of young patients in female HNC cases is higher than the young male proportion.

Conclusion

Overall, this study demonstrates an increased proportion of older HNC patients that is consistent with the ageing population. Oral cavity cancer demonstrated a true increase in the proportion of young patients, likely due to the increased incidence of young women diagnosed with this cancer. Oropharyngeal cancer was the only subsite to show a decrease in the mean age at diagnosis. The increased proportion of middle‐age patients with oropharyngeal cancer likely reflects the increase in HPV‐related cancers.
Utility of abdominal skin punch biopsy for detecting systemic amyloidosis
Authors: Wu Bicong , Pak Daniel M. , Smith Kelly D. , Shinohara Michi M.
Published: June 2021

Background

Early and accurate diagnosis of systemic amyloidosis (SA) is critical for optimal patient outcomes. Biopsy of clinically uninvolved skin and subcutaneous tissue including abdominal skin punch biopsy (ASPB) is often used as a surrogate for affected organ sampling. There is a lack of published data on the sensitivity and specificity of ASPB for diagnosing SA.

Methods

Retrospective chart review between 2000 and 2020 of all ASPB was performed to diagnose SA. Amyloid deposition was confirmed by Congo red stain. Study group includes patients with histopathologically and clinically confirmed diagnosis of SA. Control group includes patients without histopathology of amyloid deposition and no clinical SA.

Results

Forty‐one patients meeting inclusion criteria were analyzed; 23 study group and 18 control group patients. The overall diagnostic sensitivity of ASPB was 43% (95% CI 23%‐66%) and the specificity 100% (95% CI 81%‐100%). The AL amyloidosis diagnostic sensitivity was 64% (95% CI 35%‐87%). ASPB >10 mm in depth had 100% (95% CI 54%‐100%) sensitivity compared to 24% for depth ≤10 mm (P = .002).

Conclusions

ASPB is a minimally invasive and highly specific method of diagnosing SA. It is particularly sensitive for diagnosing AL amyloidosis and the diagnostic sensitivity can be significantly improved with adequate biopsy depth and diameter.
Incidence of missing pathology specimens in dermatology
Authors: Johnson Amy G. , Behrens Kimberley G. , Delozier Sarah J. , Honda Kord S.
Published: June 2021

Background

Occasionally specimen containers are received in the dermatopathology laboratory without an accompanying specimen. The consequences in this scenario can range from delay in care and inconvenience to patients to increased morbidity and even mortality. Data regarding incidence and associated characteristics of missing specimens are scant.

Methods

Over a 10‐year period (7 January 2010 to 7 January 2020) all cases with a missing specimen in a single academic dermatopathology laboratory and a single dermatopathology practice embedded within a dermatology practice were reviewed.

Results

Out of 270,754 specimens received, 83 empty specimen containers were identified for an incidence of 0.031%. There were 14 (0.005%) cases in which patients had a separate procedure and a second container with both specimens in it accompanying the empty container. The most common missing specimen‐generating procedures were shave biopsies (51%) with most common clinical diagnosis being unspecified (30%). The most common specimen location from the 97 total specimen bottles containing either zero or two specimens was head/neck (53%). Although no further procedures were performed after the specimen was lost for 48% of cases, re‐biopsy occurred for 28%.

Conclusions

Failure to insert specimens into the correct container is rare, but represents a potential significant negative event where vigilance and improvement is required.
A principle‐based approach to justify the use of HIV self‐testing in South Africa
Authors: Hermanus Tandile , O’Grady Mary
Published: June 2021

The South African government introduced the use of an HIV self‐testing (HIVST) kit in 2016 to expand access to HIV testing services and to increase HIV testing uptake among men and key populations who may otherwise not test. By reviewing existing empirical data, including existing guidelines regarding the implementation and use of HIV self‐testing, this research explores the ethical implications of using the HIV self‐testing kit and draws arguments from the ethical principles: respect for autonomy, beneficence, non‐maleficence, and social justice. The implementation of HIV self‐testing in South Africa does not violate any ethical principles; however, the potential occurrences of coercion and intimate partner violence surrounding HIV self‐testing remain issues of concern challenging the principle of non‐maleficence. Furthermore, the available empirical data on potential harm does not provide compelling ethical grounds for restricting the sale of HIVST kits in South Africa. Hence, HIVST in South Africa remains an ethically justified intervention.
TNF‐α antagonism rescues the effect of ageing on stroke: Perspectives for targeting inflamm‐ageing
Authors: Liberale Luca , Bonetti Nicole R. , Puspitasari Yustina M. , Vukolic Ana , Akhmedov Alexander , Diaz‐Cañestro Candela , Keller Stephan , Montecucco Fabrizio , Merlini Mario , Semerano Aurora , Giacalone Giacomo , Bacigaluppi Marco , Sessa Maria , Ruschitzka Frank , Lüscher Thomas F. , Libby Peter , Beer Jürg H. , Camici Giovanni G.
Published: June 2021

Aims

Epidemiologic evidence links ischemic stroke to age, yet the mechanisms that underlie the specific and independent effects of age on stroke remain elusive, impeding the development of targeted treatments. This study tested the hypothesis that age directly aggravates stroke outcomes and proposes inflamm‐aging as a mediator and potential therapeutic target.

Methods

3 months‐ (young) and 18‐20 months‐old (old) mice underwent transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (tMCAO) for 30 minutes followed by 48 hours of reperfusion. Old animals received weekly treatment with the TNF‐α neutralizing antibody adalimumab over 4 weeks before tMCAO in a separate set of experiments. Plasma levels of TNF‐ α were assessed in patients with ischemic stroke and correlated with age and outcome.

Results

Old mice displayed larger stroke size than young ones with increased neuromotor deficit. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed impairment of the blood‐brain barrier in old mice, i.e. increased post‐stroke degradation of endothelial tight junctions and expression of tight junctions‐digesting and neurotoxic matrix metalloproteinases. At baseline, old animals showed a broad modulation of several circulating inflammatory mediators. TNF‐α displayed the highest increase in old animals and its inhibition restored the volume of stroke, neuromotor performance, and survival rates of old mice to the levels observed in young ones. Patients with ischemic stroke showed increased TNF‐α plasma levels which correlated with worsened short‐term neurological outcome as well as with age.

Conclusions

This study identifies TNF‐α as a causative contributor to the deleterious effect of aging on stroke and points to inflamm‐aging as a mechanism of age‐related worsening of stroke outcomes and potential therapeutic target in this context. Thus, this work provides a basis for tailoring novel stroke therapies for the particularly vulnerable elderly population.
Circ_0021087 acts as a miR‐184 sponge and represses gastric cancer progression by adsorbing miR‐184 and elevating FOSB expression
Authors: Yu Yin , Li Hong , Wu Chunhua , Li Jinfeng
Published: June 2021

Background

Gastric cancer (GC) ranks third among the causes of cancer‐related deaths in the world. Circular RNA hsa_circ_0021087 (circ_0021087) plays a repressive role in GC. Nevertheless, the mechanism by which circ_0021087 constrains GC advancement is unclear.

Materials and Methods

Expression patterns of circ_0021087, microRNA (miR)‐184 and FBJ murine osteosarcoma viral oncogene homolog B (FOSB) mRNA were assessed by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR). Gain‐of‐function experiments were conducted to verify the biological function of circ_0021087 in vitro and in vivo, including cell counting kit‐8 (CCK‐8), 5‐ethynyl‐2ʹ‐deoxyuridine (EdU), flow cytometry, transwell and xenograft assays. Protein levels were analysed by Western blotting and immunohistochemistry (IHC). The regulatory mechanism of circ_0021087 was analysed by bioinformatics analysis, dual‐luciferase reporter and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays.

Results and Conclusion

Circ_0021087 and FOSB were lowly expressed in GC, whereas miR‐184 had an opposite result. Circ_0021087 overexpression repressed GC cell proliferation and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) in xenograft models in vivo and induced GC cell apoptosis, repressed GC cell proliferation, EMT, migration and invasion in vitro. Circ_0021087 could elevate FOSB expression by adsorbing miR‐184. MiR‐184 mimic reversed the inhibitory influence of circ_0021087 overexpression on GC cell malignancy. Also, FOSB knockdown offset the suppressive impact of miR‐184 silencing on GC cell malignancy. In conclusion, circ_0021087 played a repressive influence on GC progression by elevating FOSB expression by adsorbing miR‐184, offering a new mechanism for circ_0021087 to inhibit the progression of GC.
Ga‐68 EDTA aerosols in evaluation of inhaled‐particle deposition and clearance of obstructive pulmonary diseases: A pilot prospective study compared with Galligas
Authors: Wang Shao‐Ting , Bao Cheng , Liu Qingxing , Zhang Tengyue , Yang Yanli , Tian Xinlun , Zhu Zhaohui , Xu Kai‐Feng
Published: June 2021

Purpose

68‐gallium (Ga‐68) ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) aerosols and Galligas were compared in evaluation of inhaled‐particle deposition and clearance in volunteers with or without obstructive pulmonary diseases.

Methods

Nonsmoking healthy volunteers, healthy smokers, asthma patients and patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) were recruited to undergo the dynamic lung ventilation positron emission tomography/computerized tomography (PET/CT) scans within two consecutive days. The inhaled particles were Ga‐68–labelled carbon nanoparticles (Galligas, 30‐60 nm in size) and Ga‐68–labelled EDTA aerosols (1‐2 μm in size), respectively. The volunteers’ lung function parameters were measured for comparison.

Results

Central deposition and inhomogeneity of both tracers were negatively correlated with lung function parameters, including the ratio of forced expiratory volume at 1 second to forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC). The central or hilum deposition of Galligas, but not 68‐gallium (Ga‐68) EDTA, was negatively correlated with the maximal expiratory flow at 25%, 50% and 75% of the forced vital capacity. Compared with Galligas, Ga‐68 EDTA aerosols were more concentrated in the central region in all groups except for the healthy nonsmokers. Ventilation inhomogeneity was more evident when using Ga‐68 EDTA aerosols, especially in patients with COPD and asthma patients. In the healthy smokers, the central region accumulated more Ga‐68 EDTA at 30 minutes after inhalation than immediately after inhalation. Ga‐68 EDTA cleared faster in lungs than Galligas.

Conclusions

Both Galligas and Ga‐68 EDTA aerosols can be used for PET/CT lung ventilation scan. However, Ga‐68 EDTA aerosols showed more advantages in diagnosis and evaluation of obstructive airway diseases by revealing the inhaled‐particle deposition and clearance.
Incidence and prevalence of psychogenic nonepileptic seizures in a Norwegian county: A 10‐year population‐based study
Authors: Villagrán Antonia , Eldøen Guttorm , Duncan Roderick , Aaberg Kari Modalsli , Hofoss Dag , Lossius Morten Ingvar
Published: June 2021

Objective

This study was undertaken to measure the incidence and prevalence of active psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) in a Norwegian county.

Methods

Using the Norwegian patient registry, we identified patients in Møre and Romsdal County in Norway diagnosed with F44.5 (conversion disorder with seizures or convulsions) or R56.8 (convulsions, not elsewhere classified) in the period January 2010 to January 2020. A review of the patients' medical records and an assessment of diagnostic validity were performed. PNES were diagnosed according to the recommendations by the International League Against Epilepsy Nonepileptic Seizures Task Force. Point prevalence of PNES on January 1, 2020 and incidence rates for the period 2010–2019 were determined.

Results

Based on PNES within the past 5 years, we found a PNES prevalence of 23.8/100 000 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 17.9–29.6), including all levels of diagnostic certainty. For the highest level of diagnostic certainty (video‐electroencephalographically confirmed), the prevalence was 10.6/100 000 (95% CI = 6.7–14.5). The highest prevalence was found in the age group 15–19 years, at 59.5/100 000 (95% CI = 22.6–96.3). The mean annual incidence rate between 2010 and 2019 was 3.1/100 000/year (95% CI = 2.4–3.7).

Significance

We report for the first time a population‐based estimate of the prevalence of PNES. Our findings suggest that the prevalence of PNES is within the range of estimates from non‐population‐based data. We found a strikingly high prevalence of PNES in the 15–19‐year age group.
Window data envelopment analysis approach: A review and bibliometric analysis
Authors: Peykani Pejman , Farzipoor Saen Reza , Seyed Esmaeili Fatemeh Sadat , Gheidar‐Kheljani Jafar
Published: June 2021

Window Data Envelopment Analysis (WDEA) is a popular, effective, and applicable methods for dynamic performance assessment of peer decision making units (DMUs). WDEA is a non‐parametric panel method that operates based on the principle of moving averages and establishes efficiency measures by treating each DMU in different periods as a separate DMU. By applying the WDEA approach, a decision‐maker (DM) can measure the efficiency of different DMUs in different periods through a sequence of overlapping windows. Also, WDEA can increase the discrimination power by increasing the number of DMUs when a limited number of DMUs is available. Given the advantages of the WDEA approach and its applications in real‐world problems, this paper surveys and analyses 387 WDEA papers published from 1985 to 2020. The paper also recommends some suggestions, guidelines, and opportunities for future research. Notably, the findings show the applicability and efficacy of WDEA in the literature.
Domestic isomorphic pressures in the design of FOI oversight institutions in Latin America
Authors: Piñeiro Rodríguez Rafael , Muñoz Paula , Rosenblatt Fernando , Rossel Cecilia , Scrollini Fabrizio
Published: June 2021

Even though many countries in Latin America have adopted FOI Laws, there are significant differences in the institutional design of FOI oversight institutions. Most explanations highlight the role of political competition in motivating political actors to design strong de jure FOI oversight institutions. The design of FOI oversight institutions in Chile, Peru and Uruguay, however, cannot fully be explained by political competition. We show how isomorphic pressures help explain variation in the de jure strength of the FOI oversight institutions. Our findings highlight the importance of considering domestic constraints on the diffusion of one‐size‐fits‐all models. To analyze each case, we conducted a systematic process‐tracing analysis. Our in‐depth analysis allowed us to assess different theories concerning the specific institutional design of FOI oversight institutions.
Perivascular stromal cells: Directors of tissue immune niches
Authors: Sbierski‐Kind Julia , Mroz Nicholas , Molofsky Ari B.
Published: June 2021

Perivascular niches are specialized microenvironments where stromal and immune cells interact with vasculature to monitor tissue status. Adventitial perivascular niches surround larger blood vessels and other boundary sites, supporting collections of immune cells, stromal cells, lymphatics, and neurons. Adventitial fibroblasts (AFs), a subtype of mesenchymal stromal cell, are the dominant constituents in adventitial spaces, regulating vascular integrity while organizing the accumulation and activation of a variety of interacting immune cells. In contrast, pericytes are stromal mural cells that support microvascular capillaries and surround organ‐specific parenchymal cells. Here, we outline the unique immune and non‐immune composition of perivascular tissue immune niches, with an emphasis on the heterogeneity and immunoregulatory functions of AFs and pericytes across diverse organs. We will discuss how perivascular stromal cells contribute to the regulation of innate and adaptive immune responses and integrate immunological signals to impact tissue health and disease.
Why States Should Buy Kidneys
Authors: Sterri Aksel Braanen
Published: June 2021

In this article, I argue we have collective duties to people who suffer from kidney failure and these duties are best fulfilled through a government‐monopsony market in kidneys. A government‐monopsony market is a model where the government is the sole buyer, and kidneys are distributed according to need, not ability to pay. The framework of collective duties enables us to respond to several of the most pressing ethical and practical objections to kidney markets, including Cécile Fabre's objection that it is unjust to be paid to do one's duty, Simon Rippon's objections that it is harmful to be pressured to sell a kidney and that a market is unfair, Richard Titmuss's crowding out objection, and Ronald Dworkin's objection that body parts should not be among the goods we owe each other.
More is not always better: The impact of value co‐creation fit on B2B and B2C customer satisfaction
Authors: Gligor David M. , Maloni Michael J.
Published: June 2021

Organizations increasingly rely on customer involvement in the value creation process (i.e., co‐creation) to enhance customer satisfaction and differentiate themselves from competitors. While past research has largely indicated that more co‐creation is beneficial, some have suggested yet not empirically validated that excess co‐creation may negatively impact customers. Applying the service‐dominant logic, two studies (B2B and B2C customers) offer insight into the appropriate levels of the co‐production and value‐in‐use dimensions of co‐creation. For both B2B and B2C customers, polynomial regression and surface plot analyses indicate an inverted U‐shaped relationship between value co‐creation and satisfaction, establishing that more co‐creation is beneficial only up to a point. As such, we inform managers of factors that can cause the relationship between co‐creation and satisfaction to peak and then turn negative. Further, customer expertise and process enjoyment moderate this relationship for B2C (but not B2B) customers, thereby offering ways to mitigate the negative effects of excess co‐creation for end‐customers. The studies also highlight the importance of value co‐creation “fit” between the customer's expected and experienced levels of co‐creation. Interestingly, positive misfit (i.e., excess co‐creation) retains a stronger negative influence on customer satisfaction than negative misfit (i.e., insufficient co‐creation) for both B2B and B2C customers.