bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cancer associates with risk and severe events of COVID‐19: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Tian Yehong , Qiu Xiaowei , Wang Chengxiang , Zhao Jianxin , Jiang Xin , Niu Wenquan , Huang Jinchang , Zhang Fengyu
Published: July 2020

Evidence is mounting to indicate that cancer patients may have more likelihood of having coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) but lack consistency. A robust estimate is urgently needed to convey appropriate information to the society and the public, in the time of ongoing COVID‐19 pandemic. We performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis through a comprehensive literature search in major databases in English and Chinese, and two investigators conducted publication selection and data extraction independently. A meta‐analysis was used to obtain estimates of pooled prevalence of cancer in patients with COVID‐19 and determine the association of cancer with severe events, after assessment of potential heterogeneity, publication bias, and correction for the estimates when necessary. Total 38 studies comprising 7094 patients with COVID‐9 were included; the pooled prevalence of cancer was estimated at 2.3% (95% confidence limit [CL] [0.018, 0.029]; P < .001) overall and 3.2% (95% CL [0.023, 0.041]; P < .001) in Hubei province; the corresponding estimates were 1.4% and 1.9% after correction for publication bias; cancer was significantly associated with the events of severe cases (odds ratio [OR] = 2.20, 95% CL [1.53, 3.17]; P < .001) and death (OR = 2.97, 95% CL [1.48, 5.96]; P = .002) in patients with COVID‐19, there was no significant heterogeneity and a minimal publication bias. We conclude that cancer comorbidity is associated with the risk and severe events of COVID‐19; special measures should be taken for individuals with cancer.
Liquid biopsies: Potential and challenges
Authors: Heidrich Isabel , Ačkar Lucija , Mossahebi Mohammadi Parinaz , Pantel Klaus
Published: July 2020

The analysis of tumor cells or tumor cell products obtained from blood or other body fluids (“liquid biopsy” [LB]) provides a broad range of opportunities in the field of oncology. Clinical application areas include early detection of cancer or tumor recurrence, individual risk assessment and therapy monitoring. LB allows to portray the entire disease as tumor cells or tumor cell products are released from all metastatic or primary tumor sites, providing comprehensive and real‐time information on tumor cell evolution, therapeutic targets and mechanisms of resistance to therapy. Here, we focus on the most prominent LB markers, circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and circulating tumor‐derived DNA (ctDNA), in the blood of patients with breast, prostate, lung and colorectal cancer, as the four most frequent tumor types in Europe. After a brief introduction of key technologies used to detect CTCs and ctDNA, we discuss recent clinical studies on these biomarkers for early detection and prognostication of cancer as well as prediction and monitoring of cancer therapies. We also point out current methodological and biological limitations that still hamper the implementation of LB into clinical practice.
Risk of cerebrovascular disease among 13 457 five‐year survivors of childhood cancer: A population‐based cohort study
Authors: Reulen Raoul C. , Guha Joyeeta , Bright Chloe J. , Henson Katherine E. , Feltbower Richard G. , Hall Marlous , Kelly Julie S. , Winter David L. , Kwok‐Williams Michelle , Skinner Roderick , Cutter David J. , Frobisher Clare , Hawkins Mike M.
Published: July 2020

Survivors of childhood cancer treated with cranial irradiation are at risk of cerebrovascular disease (CVD), but the risks beyond age 50 are unknown. In all, 13457 survivors of childhood cancer included in the population‐based British Childhood Cancer Survivor Study cohort were linked to Hospital Episode Statistics data for England. Risk of CVD related hospitalisation was quantified by standardised hospitalisation ratios (SHRs), absolute excess risks and cumulative incidence. Overall, 315 (2.3%) survivors had been hospitalised at least once for CVD with a 4‐fold risk compared to that expected (95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.7‐4.3). Survivors of a central nervous system (CNS) tumour and leukaemia treated with cranial irradiation were at greatest risk of CVD (SHR = 15.6, 95% CI: 14.0‐17.4; SHR = 5.4; 95% CI: 4.5‐6.5, respectively). Beyond age 60, on average, 3.1% of CNS tumour survivors treated with cranial irradiation were hospitalised annually for CVD (0.4% general population). Cumulative incidence of CVD increased from 16.0% at age 50 to 26.0% at age 65 (general population: 1.4‐4.2%). In conclusion, among CNS tumour survivors treated with cranial irradiation, the risk of CVD continues to increase substantially beyond age 50 up to at least age 65. Such survivors should be: counselled regarding this risk; regularly monitored for hypertension, dyslipidaemia and diabetes; advised on life‐style risk behaviours. Future research should include the recall for counselling and brain MRI to identify subgroups that could benefit from pharmacological or surgical intervention and establishment of a case‐control study to comprehensively determine risk‐factors for CVD.
Genetically predicted levels of circulating cytokines and prostate cancer risk: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Sun Xiaohui , Ye Ding , Du Lingbin , Qian Yu , Jiang Xia , Mao Yingying
Published: July 2020

Inflammation is considered to play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of cancer, and observational studies have reported a relationship between circulating inflammation markers and the risk of prostate cancer. Using summary data of >140 000 individuals, two‐sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses were performed to evaluate whether circulating levels of 27 cytokines and growth factors have a causal effect on the risk of developing prostate cancer. Genetically predicted elevated levels of monocyte chemotactic protein‐1 (MCP‐1) were associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer (odds ratio (OR) per 1 SD increase = 1.06, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.04‐1.09) at Bonferroni‐adjusted level of significance (P < 1.85 × 10−3). Results were stable across sensitivity analyses, and there was no evidence of directional pleiotropy. Under MR assumptions, our findings suggested a risk‐increasing effect of circulating MCP‐1 levels on prostate cancer. Whether targeting MCP‐1 or its downstream effectors are useful in reducing prostate cancer incidence needs further investigation.
The “unnatural” history of colorectal cancer in Lynch syndrome: Lessons from colonoscopy surveillance
Authors: Ahadova Aysel , Seppälä Toni T. , Engel Christoph , Gallon Richard , Burn John , Holinski‐Feder Elke , Steinke‐Lange Verena , Möslein Gabriela , Nielsen Maartje , ten Broeke Sanne W. , Laghi Luigi , Dominguez‐Valentin Mev , Capella Gabriel , Macrae Finlay , Scott Rodney , Hüneburg Robert , Nattermann Jacob , Hoffmeister Michael , Brenner Hermann , Bläker Hendrik , von Knebel Doeberitz Magnus , Sampson Julian R. , Vasen Hans , Mecklin Jukka‐Pekka , Møller Pål , Kloor Matthias
Published: July 2020

Individuals with Lynch syndrome (LS), one of the most common inherited cancer syndromes, are at increased risk of developing malignancies, in particular colorectal cancer (CRC). Regular colonoscopy with polypectomy is recommended to reduce CRC risk in LS individuals. However, recent independent studies demonstrated that a substantial proportion of LS individuals develop CRC despite regular colonoscopy. The reasons for this surprising observation confirmed by large prospective studies are a matter of debate. In this review, we collect existing evidence from clinical, epidemiological and molecular studies and interpret them with regard to the origins and progression of LS‐associated CRC. Alongside with hypotheses addressing colonoscopy quality and pace of progression from adenoma to cancer, we discuss the role of alternative precursors and immune system in LS‐associated CRC. We also identify gaps in current knowledge and make suggestions for future studies aiming at improved CRC prevention for LS individuals.
Phase II study evaluating the association of gemcitabine, trastuzumab and erlotinib as first‐line treatment in patients with metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma (GATE 1)
Authors: Assenat Eric , Mineur Laurent , Mollevi Caroline , Lopez‐Crapez Evelyne , Lombard‐Bohas Catherine , Samalin Emmanuelle , Portales Fabienne , Walter Thomas , de Forges Hélène , Dupuy Marie , Boissière‐Michot Florence , Ho‐Pun‐Cheung Alexandre , Ychou Marc , Mazard Thibaut
Published: July 2020

In a previous phase II study (THERAPY), cetuximab and trastuzumab combination, as second‐line after progression with gemcitabine, showed disease stabilization in 27% of 33 patients with pancreatic carcinoma. In the present phase II multicenter study, we assessed the efficacy and tolerance of gemcitabine, trastuzumab plus erlotinib as first‐line treatment of metastatic pancreatic cancer. The primary endpoint was disease control rate (DCR, RECIST v.1); secondary endpoints were progression‐free (PFS), overall (OS) survival and toxicity (NCI‐CTCAE v3.0). Ancillary study addressed the predictive value of both EGFR/HER2 expression and KRAS mutational status. Sixty‐three patients from four centers were included (62 evaluable for toxicity, 59 for efficacy), median age was 62 years (35‐77), 59.7% men. The median treatment duration was 16.1 weeks (2.1‐61). Eleven patients (19%) reported a partial tumor response, and 33 (56%) disease stabilization. DCR was 74.6% (95%CI: 61.8‐85.0; 44/59 patients). After a median follow‐up of 23.3 months (0.6‐23.6), median PFS was 3.5 months (95%CI: 2.4‐3.8) and median OS 7.9 months (95%CI: 5.1‐10.2). PFS was significantly longer in patients with grade ≥ 2 cutaneous toxicities vs patients with grade 0‐1 toxicities (HR = 0.55, 95%CI: 0.33‐0.92, P = .020). Expression of EGFR and HER2 was correlated with PFS and OS in multivariate analysis; HER2 expression was correlated with the tumor response. Main severe toxicities were neutropenia (32%), cutaneous rash (37%) and thrombosis/embolisms (35.5%). This triplet combination is effective in terms of disease control, PFS and OS, and acceptable for safety. A larger study to investigate this combination compared to the standard regimen should be discussed.
Prevalence and predictors of precancerous cervical lesions among HIV‐positive women in Jos, north‐central Nigeria
Authors: Daniel Grace O. , Musa Jonah , Akindigh Terver M. , Shinku Francis , Shuaibu Samaila I. , Kwaghe Barka , Afolaranmi Tolulope , Okpala Chidi , Agbaji Oche , Sagay Atiene
Published: July 2020

Objective

To determine the prevalence and predictors of precancerous cervical lesions among HIV‐positive women in Jos, Nigeria.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted from October 2017 to January 2018 among 326 HIV‐positive women. Cervical smears were collected for examination at the AIDS Preventive Initiative of Nigeria clinics of Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) and Bingham University Teaching Hospital (BhUTH), Jos, Nigeria. Demographic characteristics of participants were documented using a structured questionnaire. Data were entered and analyzed using SPSS version 21.

Results

Of the 326 participants, precancerous cervical lesions were present in 40 (12.2%) women: 4 (1.2%) had atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance, 19 (5.8%) had low‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesions, 1 (0.3%) had atypical squamous cells cannot exclude high‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesions, 13 (4.0%) had high‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesions, and 3 (0.9%) had high‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesions, suspected for invasion. The multivariate logistics regression model showed that parity (odds ratio 3.4, 95% confidence interval 1.3–9.5, P=0.043) was a significant predictor of precancerous cervical lesions.

Conclusion

The prevalence of precancerous cervical lesions among HIV‐infected women is relatively low compared to earlier reported prevalence in an HIV population in Jos. Increasing parity was a significant predictor.
Individual Variation in Adaptive Immune Responses and Risk of Hip Fracture—A NOREPOS Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Dahl Jesper , Holvik Kristin , Heldal Einar , Grimnes Guri , Hoff Mari , Finnes Trine E , Apalset Ellen M , Meyer Haakon E
Published: July 2020

Immune-mediated bone loss significantly impacts fracture risk in patients with autoimmune disease, but to what extent individual variations in immune responses affect fracture risk on a population level is unknown. To examine how immune responses relate to risk of hip fracture, we looked at the individual variation in a post-vaccination skin test response that involves some of the immune pathways that also drive bone loss. From 1963 to 1975, the vast majority of the Norwegian adult population was examined as part of the compulsory nationwide Norwegian mass tuberculosis screening. These examinations included standardized tuberculin skin tests (TSTs). Our study population included young individuals (born 1940 to 1960 and aged 14 to 30 years at examination) who had all received Bacille Calmette-Guerin (BCG) vaccination after a negative TST at least 1 year prior and had no signs of tuberculosis upon clinical examination. The study population ultimately included 244,607 individuals, whose data were linked with a national database of all hospitalized hip fractures in Norway from 1994 to 2013. There were 3517 incident hip fractures during follow-up. Using a predefined Cox model, we found that men with a positive or a strong positive TST result had a 20% (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.20, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01–1.44) and 24% (HR = 1.24, 95% CI 1.03–1.49) increased risk of hip fracture, respectively, compared with men with a negative TST. This association was strengthened in sensitivity analyses. Total hip bone mineral density (BMD) was available for a limited subsample and similarly revealed a non-significantly reduced BMD among men with a positive TST. Interestingly, no such clear association was observed in women. An increased immune response after vaccination is associated with an increased risk of hip fracture decades later among men, possibly because of increased immune-mediated bone loss. © 2020 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
Idiopathic Scoliosis as a Rotatory Decompensation of the Spine
Authors: Castelein René M , Pasha Saba , Cheng Jack CY , Dubousset Jean
Published: July 2020

Many years of dedicated research into the etiology of idiopathic scoliosis have not led to one unified theory. We propose that scoliosis is a mechanical, rotatory decompensation of the human spine that starts in the transverse, or horizontal, plane. The human spine is prone to this type of decompensation because of its unique and individually different, fully upright sagittal shape with some preexistent transverse plane rotation. Spinal stability depends on the integrity of a delicate system of stabilizers, in which intervertebral disc stiffness is crucial. There are two phases in life when important changes occur in the precarious balance between spinal loading and the disc's stabilizing properties: (i) during puberty, when loads and moment arms increase rapidly, while the disc's “anchor,” the ring apophysis, matures from purely cartilaginous to mineralized to ultimately fused to the vertebral body, and (ii) in older age, when the torsional stiffness of the spinal segments decreases, due to disc degeneration and subsequent laxity of the fibers of the annulus fibrosus. During these crucial periods, transverse plane vertebral rotation can increase during a relatively brief window in time, either as adolescent idiopathic or degenerative de novo scoliosis. Much more is known of the biomechanical changes that occur during disc aging and degeneration than of the changing properties of the disc during maturation. © 2020 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
Open communication of Duchenne muscular dystrophy facilitates disclosure process by parents to unaffected siblings
Authors: Sulmonte Laura A.G. , Bisordi Katharine , Ulm Elizabeth , Nusbaum Rachel
Published: July 2020

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a progressive childhood onset neuromuscular disease with no known cure. There is extensive literature about the impact of a diagnosis on the psychosocial well‐being of unaffected siblings, with a need for additional research to provide information about optimal ways to disclose this information to unaffected children. We sought to explore the parental experiences of disclosing a sibling's diagnosis of DMD to unaffected children who were age 8–17 years old either at the time of their sibling's diagnosis or presently. Parents were recruited through Maryland Muscular Dystrophy Association, Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy, and Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center Neuromuscular Center. An interview guide, rooted in family communication, was created to incorporate themes and topics found in literature specific to DMD and disclosure to unaffected siblings. We qualitatively explored these experiences through semi‐structured interviews and performed thematic analysis using a coding system to identify overarching themes and subthemes. Several main themes regarding challenges to the disclosure process emerged. We identified the following themes in procedural aspects of disclosure: lack of provider support, importance of the DMD community, and open and gradual timeline of disclosure. Under emotional experiences, we identified these themes: overwhelming nature, elements of surprise disclosure, and balancing parental and sibling needs. Most questions from unaffected siblings related to procedural elements of care such as treatments and equipment. Additional unanticipated themes emerged that may contribute to the knowledge of family culture surrounding DMD: the complex role of Facebook as a family resource, deferring carrier testing for siblings, and inclusion of DMD in school projects. While the process of disclosure is complicated by a variety of factors such as lack of provider support and overwhelming emotional burden, families highlight the importance of open communication in discussion with unaffected children.
Interdecadal and interannual evolution characteristics of the global surface precipitation anomaly shown by CMIP5 and CMIP6 models
Authors: Zhu Yuyao , Yang Saini
Published: July 2020

Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5 (CMIP5) models have limited capacity for depicting the variability of precipitation at interannual and interdecadal timescales. This study analyses the relative magnitude of interannual to multidecadal variability in annual precipitation across the world in the recently released CMIP6 dataset by quantifying the discrepancy between observed and modelled CMIP5 and CMIP6 data, considering both the absolute and relative magnitude of precipitation variability. We found that: (a) similar to CMIP5, CMIP6 models were short of capacity to simulate the non‐homogeneity in the relative magnitude of interdecadal variability, which is linked to prolonged drought and pluvials in terms of the strength value. The relative value of the interdecadal variability ranged from 15% to more than 30% in observation. Compared with observational data, the relative magnitude, having spatial uniformity, mostly ranged from 10 to 20% in CMIP5 and CMIP6. This result suggests that future projections lack a sufficient decadal variability in CMIP6, indicating a limited capacity for the prediction of floods and droughts in regions like central Africa, North America, and Amazonia; (b) Most individual models in CMIP6 had a better performance in terms of the spatial distribution of the interdecadal precipitation as compared to CMIP5. However, the absolute variations of the overall, interannual, and interdecadal precipitation of multi‐model ensemble simulations (MME) in CMIP6 were larger than those in CMIP5; (c) the underestimation of the interdecadal component in different areas was markedly decreased in East Asia, South Asia but increased in North and South Africa in CMIP6, when compared with CMIP5 and (d) For future scenarios, the higher the range of future forcing pathway is, the larger interdecadal and interannual variabilities are in all regions in CMIP6. For future persistent droughts and floods predicting in a specific region, it is necessary to consider the discrepancy between historical simulations and observational data, and select the performance‐plus models.
Influence of ripening stage and de‐astringency treatment on the production of dehydrated persimmon snacks
Authors: González Cristina M , Hernando Isabel , Moraga Gemma
Published: July 2020

BACKGROUND

Seasonal persimmon (Diospyros kaki L.) crops have steadily increased in Spain; this has been linked to a significant increase in the postharvest production waste. Therefore, development of valorized products is of great interest. In this study, a hot air‐drying technique was used to obtain persimmon snacks. Slices from astringent and non‐astringent persimmons (submitted to de‐astringency treatment) at three different ripening stages were dried at 40 and 60 °C to reach 15 ± 3% water content.

RESULTS

After the drying treatment, dehydrated samples were harder, turned into a more orange hue angle, and had a reduced soluble tannin content. Dehydrated samples obtained from the astringent fruit at the most advanced ripening stage had similar soluble tannin content as the samples obtained from non‐astringent fruit, especially at 60 °C. Besides, a high correlation was observed between the level of astringency perceived by consumers and the decrease of soluble tannin content. Although, in the first ripening stage, consumers preferred the snacks obtained from non‐astringent fruits; in the last ripening stage, snacks produced from astringent fruits were equally accepted than the non‐astringent ones.

CONCLUSION

Therefore, well‐accepted persimmon snacks are obtained from both astringent and non‐astringent fruits when advanced ripening stages of persimmon are used. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Phenolic contents, antioxidant potential and associated colour in sweet sorghum syrups compared to other commercial syrup sweeteners
Authors: Eggleston Gillian , Boue Stephen , Bett‐Garber Karen , Verret Chardcie , Triplett Alexa , Bechtel Peter
Published: July 2020

BACKGROUND

Knowledge of the bioactive content of sweet sorghum syrups compared to other common food‐grade syrups will expand their utilisation as a food source. Total phenolic content (TPC), phenolics evaluated by high‐performance liquid chromatography, antioxidant 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picryl hydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activities and oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC), as well as colour of high‐fructose corn syrup (HFCS), corn, honey, maple, agave, rice and grain sorghum syrups, were compared to 10 commercial sweet sorghum syrups.

RESULTS

Sweet sorghum syrups contained markedly higher (P ≤ 0.05) TPC (6471 ± 1823 mg L−1) compared to the other syrups (596 ± 497 mg L−1). HFCS, corn, white grain sorghum and rice syrups had negligible and low DPPH radical scavenging activities and ORAC values, respectively. DPPH activities, ORAC and colour values of the sweet sorghum syrups were also markedly (P ≤ 0.05) higher than other syrups and highly related. The predominant phenolic components identified in sweet sorghum syrups were phenolic acids. Ellagic acid and protocatechuic acid were found in sorghum syrups ranging in concentration from 335–1177 and 53–485 μg g−1, respectively. Sinapic acid was detected in several sorghum syrups, ranging in concentrations between 21 and 3654 μg g−1.

CONCLUSION

HFCS, corn, white grain sorghum and rice syrups demonstrated low bioactivity with negligible and low DPPH activities and ORAC values, respectively. The TPC, DPPH, ORAC and colour values of the sweet sorghum syrups were related to each other and markedly (P ≤ 0.05) higher compared to the other syrups. Phenolic acids were the predominant phenolic compounds identified in sorghum syrups and represent potential for health benefits. Published 2020. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA
A multivariate quantification of Box‐Behnken design assisted method development and validation of dextromethorphan hydrobromide and desloratadine simultaneously by reverse‐phase HPLC in in‐house syrup formulation
Authors: Alam Md. Irshad , Siddiqui Aquil ur‐Rahim , Khanam Nazia , Kamaruddin Shaikh Jalil
Published: July 2020

An innovative high‐performance liquid chromatography assay method was developed and validated for quantification of dextromethorphan hydrobromide and desloratadine simultaneously in monophasic liquid formulation by preparing syrup containing 30 mg/5 mL of dextromethorphan hydrobromide and 1.2 mg/mL of desloratadine. The chromatographic severance was executed by gradient solution A and B. The composition of buffer solution A contained 0.05 M monobasic potassium, then 1 mL triethylamine was added to it and the pH was adjusted to 2.3 with orthophosphoric acid. Methanol was used as solution B. The gradient elution was executed with Kromasil C8 (250 mm × 4.6 mm) column having 1.5 mL/min flow rate and 20 µL injection volume with UV‐estimation at 254 nm for dextromethorphan hydrobromide and DES. The present research was planned according to Box‐Behnken design by utilizing design expert software, using four factors such as column temperature (A), flow rate (B), mobile phase–organic phase (C), and pH (D); correspondingly the selected response variables were resolution between A and B, that is, desloratadine and methyl paraben (Y1), tailing of dextromethorphan hydrobromide (Y2), and tailing of desloratadine (Y3). The parameters such as system suitability, linearity, accuracy, precision, robustness, limit of detection, limit of quantitation, and ruggedness were analyzed to validate the developed method in accordance with current regulatory guidelines.
Defining the term knowledge worker: Toward improved ontology and operationalization
Authors: De Sordi José Osvaldo , Azevedo Marcia Carvalho de , Bianchi Eliane Maria Pires Giavina , Carandina Thiago
Published: July 2020

Despite the strategic value of organizational knowledge as a source of sustainable competitive advantage, researchers have voiced their concern over the potential imprecision and undue use of the term “knowledge worker” in the relevant research literature. In order to identify the nature of this imprecision and discuss ways of overcoming addressing it, we analyzed 223 articles from diverse fields that make reference to the concept of “knowledge worker”. Applying content analysis, we analyzed the definitions identified and the types of worker considered by researchers to be knowledge workers. It was observed that the term ‘knowledge worker’ has been used for occupations and professions with different levels of complexity, including those that were mostly operational. In addition, we observed that the term ‘knowledge worker’ is used, in a majority of instances, without any definition being offered (67.7%). Subsequent semantic analysis of the set of actions attributed to knowledge workers aided in the identification of additional descriptors that assisted in the conceptualization the term. In the analyzes, the sole appearance of the verb exploit in an article in the field of Geography & Transport stood out, leading us to consider a link between the active work conducted by knowledge workers and the exploitation‐exploration dyad in accordance with the concepts of the fields of innovation and learning. The analysis of the article did not confirm our initial perception. After observing the non‐use of the exploitation‐exploration dyad in none of the definitions of the term knowledge worker in the 223 articles that were analyzed, and in the literatures cited in these articles, we considered this fact an opportunity for contribution. Therefore, this study presents the development of an innovative new definition for the term knowledge worker, associating it with actions of the exploration of organizational knowledge, whereas the term information worker is associated with actions of the exploitation of organizational knowledge. We close the discussions by addressing the impacts of these definitions for the practitioners and academics who work with the themes of knowledge management, organizational learning, core competences, and process management.
Ownership structure, information asymmetry and growth of the firm: Implications from nonfinancial firms listed in S&P500
Authors: Bishara Mina K. , Andrikopoulos Panagiotis , Eldomiaty Tarek
Published: July 2020

This paper investigates the association between growth of the firm and ownership structure under conditions of information asymmetry. The objective is to show the effects of information asymmetry (favorable vs. adverse selection) on the choice of the ownership structure that helps firms grow. Our sample includes nonfinancial firms listed in the S&P500 over the period 2000 to 2016. The dependent variable is growth of the firm measured by growth in sales. The independent variables are proxies for changes in ownership structure, individual investors, investment managers, and brokerage firms. Observations are grouped according to level of information asymmetry (high or low) using three proxies for information asymmetry: beta of return on equity (ROE), probability of default of ROE, andqratio. The results conclude that (a) changes in ownership structure affect growth of the firm positively and (b) the effect of ownership structure is more significant and consistent at low level of information asymmetry. The contribution of the paper is threefold. First, it extends the arguments of corporate governance by showing the impact of ownership structure on growth of the firm. Second, the paper offers robust evidence that growth of the firm is associated with low level of information asymmetry. Third, the paper shows that fundamental financial information can help lessen the level of information asymmetry and thus help firms grow.
Clinical manifestation and genetic analysis in Chinese early onset X‐linked retinoschisis
Authors: Huang Li , Sun Limei , Wang Zhirong , Chen Chonglin , Wang Panfeng , Sun Wenmin , Luo Xiaoling , Ding Xiaoyan
Published: July 2020

Background

X‐linked retinoschisis (XLRS) is one type of retinal dystrophy leading to the schisis of the neural retina and causing reduced visual acuity. The study aimed to investigate the clinical manifestations and retinoschisin 1 (RS1) mutations in Chinese patients with early onset XLRS.

Methods

Thirty‐eight probands with early onset XLRS were recruited, comprehensive ophthalmic examination was performed. A targeted gene panel was used to test the RS1 mutations.

Results

All probands had RS1 hemizygous mutations including 16 known and 14 novel mutations. The median onset age was 2 years old (range 0.1–6 years). Probands with onset age ≤1 years. had more complications (retinal detachment and vitreous hemorrhage, p < 0.001), more mutations outside the discoidin domain and more non‐frameshift mutations than probands with onset age >1 years. Macular and peripheral involvement was present in 77.27% of probands, and inner and outer nuclear layer splitting were present in 53.57% of probands. Electroretinography showed an electronegative waveform. The relatively rare phenotypes of lamellar macular hole and macular hole were present in a unilateral eye in three probands.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the early onset XLRS developed more severe complications which need close monitoring and clinical manifestations illustrated here may facilitate the early diagnosis of retinoschisis.
Double‐mode modeling of nonlinear flexural vibration analysis for a symmetric rectangular honeycomb sandwich thin panel by the homotopy analysis method
Authors: Li Yongqiang , Yao WenKai
Published: July 2020

Nonlinear flexural vibration of a symmetric rectangular honeycomb sandwich thin panel with simply supported along all four edges is studied in this paper. The nonlinear governing equations of the symmetric rectangular honeycomb sandwich panel subjected to transverse excitations are simplified to a set of two ordinary differential equations by the Galerkin method. Based on the homotopy analysis method, the average equations of the primary resonance and harmonic resonance are obtained. The influence of structural parameters, the transverse exciting force amplitude, and transverse damping to the symmetric rectangular honeycomb sandwich panel are discussed by using the analytic approximation method. Compared with the results obtained by single‐mode modeling technique, the results obtained by double‐mode modeling technique change the softening and hardening nonlinear characteristics when Ω ≈ ω1, ω1/3, and ω2/3.
Novel artifact‐robust and highly visible zinc solid fiducial marker for kilovoltage x‐ray image‐guided radiation therapy
Authors: Wang Tianyuan , Inubushi Sachiko , Ikeo Naoko , Mukai Toshiji , Okumura Keisuke , Akasaka Hiroaki , Yada Ryuichi , Yoshida Kenji , Miyawaki Daisuke , Ishihara Takeaki , Nakaoka Ai , Sasaki Ryohei
Published: July 2020

Purpose

To develop a novel biocompatible solid fiducial marker that prevents radiopaque imaging artifacts and also maintains high imaging contrast for kilovoltage x‐ray image‐guided radiation therapy.

Methods

The fiducial marker was made of pure zinc. An in‐house water‐equivalent phantom was designed to evaluate artifacts and visibility under various simulated treatment scenarios. Image artifacts were quantitatively assessed in terms of the metal artifact index (MAI) on kilovoltage computed tomography (CT) and cone‐beam CT (CBCT) scans. Marker visibility was evaluated on two types of kilovoltage planar x‐ray images in terms of the contrast‐to‐background ratio (CBR). Comparisons with a conventional gold fiducial marker were conducted.

Results

The use of zinc rather than a gold marker mitigates imaging artifacts. The MAI near the zinc marker decreased by 76, 79, and 77 % in CT, and by 77 (81), 74 (80), and 79 (85) % in CBCT full‐fan (half‐fan) scans, when using one‐, two‐, and three‐marker phantom settings, respectively. The high‐contrast part of the zinc marker exhibited CBRs above 2.00 for 28/32 exposures under four (lung, tissue, low‐density bone, and high‐density bone) different simulation scenarios, making its visibility comparable to that of the gold marker (30/32 exposures with CBRs > 2.00).

Conclusions

We developed a biocompatible, artifact‐robust, and highly visible solid zinc fiducial marker. Although further evaluation is needed in clinical settings, our findings suggest its feasibility and benefits for kilovoltage x‐ray image‐guided radiation therapy.
OPTIMIZING YOUR DISPLAY WEEK EXPERIENCE
Authors:   Editorial Staff
Published: July 2020

With its pivot from an in‐person event to an online experience, Display Week 2020 might be the most accessible to date. Here's how you can best take advantage.
How Will 5G Impact the Mobile Display Market?
Authors: Dickson Glen
Published: July 2020

Experts say 5G will be more of an evolution rather than a revolution for mobile displays.
What Intellectual Property Tells Us About the MicroLED Landscape
Authors: Virey Eric H.
Published: July 2020

MicroLED technologies are in a Cambrian Explosion phase, but a thorough examination of recent shifts in intellectual property filings offers a clearer picture of their prospects.
3D free‐breathing cardiac magnetic resonance fingerprinting
Authors: Cruz Gastão , Jaubert Olivier , Qi Haikun , Bustin Aurélien , Milotta Giorgia , Schneider Torben , Koken Peter , Doneva Mariya , Botnar René M. , Prieto Claudia
Published: July 2020

Purpose

To develop a novel respiratory motion compensated three‐dimensional (3D) cardiac magnetic resonance fingerprinting (cMRF) approach for whole‐heart myocardial T1 and T2 mapping from a free‐breathing scan.

Methods

Two‐dimensional (2D) cMRF has been recently proposed for simultaneous, co‐registered T1 and T2 mapping from a breath‐hold scan; however, coverage is limited. Here we propose a novel respiratory motion compensated 3D cMRF approach for whole‐heart myocardial T1 and T2 tissue characterization from a free‐breathing scan. Variable inversion recovery and T2 preparation modules are used for parametric encoding, respiratory bellows driven localized autofocus is proposed for beat‐to‐beat translation motion correction and a subspace regularized reconstruction is employed to accelerate the scan. The proposed 3D cMRF approach was evaluated in a standardized T1/T2 phantom in comparison with reference spin echo values and in 10 healthy subjects in comparison with standard 2D MOLLI, SASHA and T2‐GraSE mapping techniques at 1.5 T.

Results

3D cMRF T1 and T2 measurements were generally in good agreement with reference spin echo values in the phantom experiments, with relative errors of 2.9% and 3.8% for T1 and T2 (T2 < 100 ms), respectively. in vivo left ventricle (LV) myocardial T1 values were 1054 ± 19 ms for MOLLI, 1146 ± 20 ms for SASHA and 1093 ± 24 ms for the proposed 3D cMRF; corresponding T2 values were 51.8 ± 1.6 ms for T2‐GraSE and 44.6 ± 2.0 ms for 3D cMRF. LV coefficients of variation were 7.6 ± 1.6% for MOLLI, 12.1 ± 2.7% for SASHA and 5.8 ± 0.8% for 3D cMRF T1, and 10.5 ± 1.4% for T2‐GraSE and 11.7 ± 1.6% for 3D cMRF T2.

Conclusion

The proposed 3D cMRF can provide whole‐heart, simultaneous and co‐registered T1 and T2 maps with accuracy and precision comparable to those of clinical standards in a single free‐breathing scan of about 7 min.
Testing the damage caused by a golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) on a primate skull: A taphonomic case study of the bone damage observed after a simulated predatory attack
Authors: Rufà Anna , Alonso Goizane , Blasco Ruth , Cueto Marián , Camarós Edgard
Published: July 2020

The present case study proposes an experimental approach to the taphonomic characterization of modifications that are produced on bone surfaces by eagles during the attack and capture of their prey. Under these circumstances, a golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) attack on a Barbary macaque (Macaca sylvanus) skull was simulated. The macaque specimen was analysed from a taphonomic perspective, which allowed for the comparison of traces left on the skull against the data that have already been published on past and present primate attacks by eagles. The results of the experiment confirmed the presence of some modifications that were similar to the damage described in the literature for specific palaeoanthropological specimens. However, the number of alterations observed was much lower because the attack was restricted to a single event, with the aim being to isolate the specific predatory attack damage. This kind of experiment demonstrates how experimental archaeology can be a useful tool for replicating past scenarios by using rigorous scientific methods, testing hypotheses and interpreting archaeological assemblages.
Deposition of modified human remains as evidence for complex mortuary treatment in East Africa during the first millenniumAD
Authors: Watts Rebecca , Mugabowagahunde Maurice , Ntagwabira André , Giblin John
Published: July 2020

In 2019 partial, disarticulated human remains with evidence of perimortem fractures and tool marks were excavated from the site of Kabusanza in southern Rwanda (first millenniumAD). The nature and location of these modifications demonstrate that some elements were subject to intentional dismemberment and defleshing, whereas the arrangement of the remains in the burial feature indicates that natural skeletonization had also occurred before final deposition. Human remains with similar patterns of modification and deposition have previously been recovered from the same site, and here we consider the potential behaviours that may have produced this suite of evidence. By comparing the remains with assemblages that have been produced through violence and through ritual activity, we demonstrate that the evidence from Kabusanza is more consistent with complex, multistage mortuary practices than other forms of processing. This may have involved some initial reduction of the body, followed by the retention or circulation of the disarticulated remains before their eventual deposition.
Lagenaria siceraria and it's bioactive constituents in carbonic anhydrase inhibition: A bioactivity guided LC–MS/MS approach
Authors: Chanda Joydeb , Mukherjee Pulok K. , Biswas Rajarshi , Singha Seha , Kar Amit , Haldar Pallab Kanti
Published: July 2020

Introduction

Lagenaria siceraria, is a popular food plant among Indians, contains a large number of phenolic compounds with several medicinal benefits, mentioned in Indian System of Medicine (ISM).

Objectives

To investigate the carbonic anhydrase inhibitory potential and inhibitory mechanism of the most potent fraction of L. siceraria fruits.

Materials and Methods

The extract and fraction of dried fruit of L. siceraria screened for their in vitro carbonic anhydrase II (bCA II) inhibitory activity. The active fraction was purified by using flash chromatography. The bioactive compounds were identified and quantified through liquid chromatography quadrupole time‐of‐flight tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐QTOF‐MS/MS) and reverse‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography (RP‐HPLC). Finally, the underlying carbonic anhydrase inhibitory mechanism of the compounds was explained by enzyme kinetics and molecular docking study.

Results

The LC‐QTOF‐MS based identification of the most active fraction revealed the presence of phenolic compounds. The results of the enzyme inhibition assay revealed that coniferyl alcohol, ferulic acid and p‐Coumaric acid inhibited bCA II activity [half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) value range of 80 to 250 μM) in a dose dependent manner. The kinetics study of enzyme inhibition revealed that p‐Coumaric acid binds to the enzyme competitively whereas the non‐competitive type of inhibition was observed for ferulic acid and coniferyl alcohol. The molecular docking study explored the interaction mechanism of phenolic compounds at the active site of bCA II.

Conclusion

The present research led us to conclude that, the phenolic compounds from L. siceraria serve as major contributors for carbonic anhydrase inhibition, which could play a useful role in the management of oedema, hypertension, obesity and related metabolic disorders.
Incidence of chromosomal abnormalities in fetuses with first trimester ultrasound anomalies and a low‐risk cell‐free DNA test for common trisomies
Authors: Persico Nicola , Boito Simona , Volpe Paolo , Ischia Benedetta , Gentile Mattia , Ronzoni Luisa , De Robertis Valentina , Fabietti Isabella , Olivieri Claudiana , Periti Enrico , Ficarella Romina , Silipigni Rosamaria , Rembouskos Georgios
Published: July 2020

Objective

To examine the incidence and type of chromosomal abnormalities in fetuses with first trimester ultrasound anomalies and a low‐risk cfDNA test for common trisomies.

Methods

In 486 singleton pregnancies undergoing invasive testing after combined screening, a detailed first trimester ultrasound assessment was carried out and a maternal blood sample was sent for cfDNA analysis. Ultrasound and cfDNA data were analyzed in relation to fetal karyotype.

Results

Invasive testing demonstrated a chromosomal abnormality in 157 (32.3%) of 486 fetuses. In 348 cases with a low‐risk cfDNA test for common trisomies, NT ≥ 3.5 mm and/or a major structural defect were observed in 92 (26.4%) fetuses. A chromosomal abnormality was found in 17 (18.5%; 95%CI 10.55‐26.41) of these pregnancies, including 1 (1.1%) case of trisomy 21 and 16 (17.4%) fetuses with abnormalities different from common trisomies. The respective incidence in the 256 cases with a low‐risk cfDNA test result and no ultrasound anomalies was 2.3% (95% CI 0.49‐4.20; n = 6).

Conclusions

In fetuses with first trimester ultrasound anomalies and a low‐risk cfDNA result for trisomy 21, 18 and 13, diagnostic testing should be offered with the main objective to detect chromosomal abnormalities beyond common trisomies.
Impact of cell‐free DNA screening on parental knowledge of fetal sex and disorders of sex development
Authors: Sofer Laurel , D'Oro Anthony , Rosoklija Ilina , Leeth Elizabeth A. , Goetsch Allison L. , Moses Scott , Chen Diane , Finlayson Courtney , Johnson Emilie K.
Published: July 2020

Objective

Discrepancies between cfDNA and ultrasound predicted fetal sex occur, possibly indicating disorders/differences of sex development (DSDs). Among expectant/recent parents, this study assessed cfDNA knowledge/use, fetal sex determination attitudes/behaviors, general knowledge of DSD, and possible psychological impact of discrepancy between fetal sex on cfDNA and ultrasound.

Method

Parents were surveyed about fetal sex determination methods, knowledge of cfDNA and DSD, distress related to possible cfDNA inaccuracy.

Results

Of 916 respondents, 44% were aware of possible discrepancy between cfDNA and ultrasound, 22% were aware of DSD. 78% and 75% would be upset and worried, respectively, with results showing fetal sex discrepancy. Most (67%) revealed predicted fetal sex before delivery. 38% were offered cfDNA. Of those revealing fetal sex, 24% used cfDNA results, 71% ultrasound, and 7% both. cfDNA users were more frequently aware of possible discrepancy between cfDNA and ultrasound (76% vs 41%, P < .0001), but not of DSD (29% vs 23%, P = .29).

Conclusion

Fetal sex determination is favored, and cfDNA is frequently used for predicting fetal chromosomal sex. Many parents are unaware of possible discrepancies between cfDNA and ultrasound, and potential for DSD. Most would be distressed by discordant results. Accurate counseling regarding limitations cfDNA for fetal sex determination is needed.
Solution to the perturbation of LIF measurements via photodissociation, OH measurement in atmospheric‐pressure multihollow DBD
Authors: Dvořák Pavel , Procházka Vojtěch , Krumpolec Richard , Zemánek Miroslav
Published: July 2020

This study solves the problem of the invasivity of laser‐induced fluorescence (LIF) measurements caused by photodissociation. It is shown with the example of OH LIF that the excess signal caused by laser‐induced photodissociation can be distinguished from the true LIF signal of the naturally presented species by its different dependence on the energy of laser pulses. This fact can be further used for the detection of photodissociable species not accessible by the standard LIF. This method is applied to OH radicals in atmospheric‐pressure multihollow dielectric barrier discharge plasma ignited in a number of holes. OH radicals are concentrated at the effluents of these holes, but they are able to spread to a distance of 5 mm, meaning that the discharge is suitable for the treatment of distant and rough surfaces.
High‐resolution structure of a partially folded insulin aggregation intermediate
Authors: Ratha Bhisma N. , Kar Rajiv K. , Brender Jeffrey R. , Pariary Ranit , Sahoo Bankanidhi , Kalita Sujan , Bhunia Anirban
Published: July 2020

Insulin has long been served as a model for protein aggregation, both due to the importance of aggregation in the manufacture of insulin and because the structural biology of insulin has been extensively characterized. Despite intensive study, details about the initial triggers for aggregation have remained elusive at the molecular level. We show here that at acidic pH, the aggregation of insulin is likely initiated by a partially folded monomeric intermediate. High‐resolution structures of the partially folded intermediate show that it is coarsely similar to the initial monomeric structure but differs in subtle details—the A chain helices on the receptor interface are more disordered and the B chain helix is displaced from the C‐terminal A chain helix when compared to the stable monomer. The result of these movements is the creation of a hydrophobic cavity in the center of the protein that may serve as nucleation site for oligomer formation. Knowledge of this transition may aid in the engineering of insulin variants that retain the favorable pharamacokinetic properties of monomeric insulin but are more resistant to aggregation.