bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The adoption of integrated reporting by state-owned enterprises (SOEs) – an international comparison
Authors: Ackers Barry , Adebayo Adeyemi
Published: October 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to establish the extent to which South African state-owned entities (SOEs), where integrated reporting is a quasi-mandatory reporting requirement, have incorporated the principles of the international integrated reporting framework. These identified South African SOE reporting practices are compared with the ‘integrated reporting’ related disclosures of SOEs in selected countries, where integrated reporting remains voluntary.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper deploys a qualitative research approach, to thematically analyse the content of publicly available annual or integrated reports of South Africa SOEs, as the primary country of analysis, with those of their counterparts in five purposively selected countries. The relative scores for the SOEs of each country is calculated using a disclosure index derived from the international integrated reporting framework principles.

Findings

The paper found that despite being a quasi-mandatory reporting requirement, not all South African SOEs complied with all the international integrated reporting framework principles. Accepting the assertion that integrated reporting enhances organisational transparency and accountability, the accountability disclosure practices of South African SOEs appear more comprehensive than their counterparts in other countries.

Originality/value

Extant research into integrated reporting has primarily focussed on the profit-seeking private sector, with limited research into its applicability in the public sector. This paper attempts to address this paucity by examining aspects of integrated reporting by South African SOEs, which are then compared to accountability reporting practices in other countries.
Effect of stevia and inulin interactions on fermentation profile and short‐chain fatty acid production of Lactobacillus acidophilus in milk and in vitro systems
Authors: Ozcan Tulay , Eroglu Ezgi
Published: October 2021

In this study, the effect of stevia and inulin interactions on fermentation profile of Lactobacillus acidophilus in milk and in vitro systems was investigated. The medium were analysed for pH, cell density (OD600), probiotic bacterial counts, prebiotic activity score (PAS), lactic acid and short‐chain fatty acid (SCFA) content. In the second stage of the study, the potential prebiotic activity of stevia and its effect on milk fermentation characteristics as sugar substitute were evaluated in symbiotic milk system. Consequently, it was found that stevia improved the survival of L. acidophilus in in vitro and in the milk matrix and could be assigned as a potential prebiotic source and sugar replacer for the manufacture of sugar‐reduced dairy products. These results show that the in vitro‐positive prebiotic activity of stevia is closer to inulin and is related to its fermentation profile and growth parameters with high short‐chain fatty acid production. The counts of probiotic bacteria remained within the biotherapeutic level (>7 log10 cfu/mL) during 28 days of storage in stevia and inulin milk system with high viscosity index and gel characteristics.
Promising strategies to control persistent enemies: Some new technologies to combat biofilm in the food industry—A review
Authors: Mevo Senakpon Isaïe Ulrich , Ashrafudoulla Md. , Furkanur Rahaman Mizan Md. , Park Si Hong , Ha Sang‐Do
Published: October 2021

Biofilm is an advanced form of protection that allows bacterial cells to withstand adverse environmental conditions. The complex structure of biofilm results from genetic‐related mechanisms besides other factors such as bacterial morphology or substratum properties. Inhibition of biofilm formation of harmful bacteria (spoilage and pathogenic bacteria) is a critical task in the food industry because of the enhanced resistance of biofilm bacteria to stress, such as cleaning and disinfection methods traditionally used in food processing plants, and the increased food safety risks threatening consumer health caused by recurrent contamination and rapid deterioration of food by biofilm cells. Therefore, it is urgent to find methods and strategies for effectively combating bacterial biofilm formation and eradicating mature biofilms. Innovative and promising approaches to control bacteria and their biofilms are emerging. These new approaches range from methods based on natural ingredients to the use of nanoparticles. This literature review aims to describe the efficacy of these strategies and provide an overview of recent promising biofilm control technologies in the food processing sector.
Small cell transformation in crizotinib‐resistantROS1‐rearranged non‐small cell lung cancer with retention ofROS1fusion: A case report
Authors: Wu Chi‐Hao , Su Po‐Lan , Hsu Che‐Wei , Chu Chang‐Yao , Lin Chien‐Chung
Published: October 2021

C‐ros oncogene 1 receptor tyrosine kinase (ROS1) rearrangement has been detected in patients with advanced non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Although ROS1 tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) provide a survival benefit for patients with ROS1‐rearranged advanced NSCLC, subsequent therapy remains limited. Small cell transformation is an important mechanism of drug resistance in epidermal growth factor receptor‐mutant NSCLC. However, its significance in mediating ROS1 resistance has not been determined yet. Here, we present the case of a 63‐year‐old man with ROS1‐rearranged advanced NSCLC who had disease progression with small cell transformation of the mediastinal lymph node after 8 months of treatment with crizotinib. More importantly, fluorescence in situ hybridization of post‐progression tumor biopsy demonstrated retention of ROS1 rearrangement. Tissue biopsy remains indispensable for patients who acquire resistance to ROS1 TKIs.
The Impact of Knowledge Transfer on Investment in Knowledge Creation in Firms†‡
Authors: Tafkov Ivo , Towry Kristy , Zhou Flora Hailan
Published: October 2021

Knowledge is key to success in the modern business landscape. Firms invest billions of dollars every year in knowledge management systems, which commonly use artificial intelligence to allow within‐firm knowledge transfer to occur automatically. Despite this investment, these systems often fall short of producing expected results. Using psychology theory on goal dilution, we argue that a potential cause of the failure is that the prospect of knowledge transfer has a negative effect on knowledge creation. We further propose a mechanism to mitigate that effect. Specifically, we predict that the negative effect of knowledge transfer on knowledge creation will be mitigated when the linkages among firm‐ and unit‐level goals are communicated. We conduct an experiment and find that while, as predicted, the prospect of knowledge transfer has a negative effect on knowledge creation when the linkages among firm‐ and unit‐level goals are not communicated, it has the predicted positive effect when the linkages among firm‐ and unit‐level goals are communicated due to increased goal congruence. Additional analyses provide support for our underlying theories. Our results suggest that firms can adopt and communicate strategic performance measurement systems to improve the knowledge creation in a firm.
Enhancing mask activity in dopaminergic neurons extends lifespan in flies
Authors: Tian Xiaolin
Published: October 2021

Dopaminergic neurons (DANs) are essential modulators for brain functions involving memory formation, reward processing, and decision‐making. Here I demonstrate a novel and important function of the DANs in regulating aging and longevity. Overexpressing the putative scaffolding protein Mask in two small groups of DANs in flies can significantly extend the lifespan in flies and sustain adult locomotor and fecundity at old ages. This Mask‐induced beneficial effect requires dopaminergic transmission but cannot be recapitulated by elevating dopamine production alone in the DANs. Independent activation of Gαsin the same two groups of DANs via the drug‐inducible DREADD system also extends fly lifespan, further indicating the connection of specific DANs to aging control. The Mask‐induced lifespan extension appears to depend on the function of Mask to regulate microtubule (MT) stability. A structure–function analysis demonstrated that the ankyrin repeats domain in the Mask protein is both necessary for regulating MT stability (when expressed in muscles and motor neurons) and sufficient to prolong longevity (when expressed in the two groups of DANs). Furthermore, DAN‐specific overexpression of Unc‐104 or knockdown of p150Glued, two independent interventions previously shown to impact MT dynamics, also extends lifespan in flies. Together, these data demonstrated a novel DANs‐dependent mechanism that, upon the tuning of their MT dynamics, modulates systemic aging and longevity in flies.
Survival, seedlings growth and natural regeneration in areas under ecological restoration in a sandy coastal plain (restinga) of southeastern Brazil
Authors: Loureiro Nathalie , de Souza Tatiane Pereira , do Nascimento Daniel Ferreira , Nascimento Marcelo Trindade
Published: October 2021

Restinga is an ecosystem associated mainly with the Atlantic Forest that can be defined as vegetation of the coastal plain established on sandy soil. This study was carried out in degraded areas of restinga in a Conservation Unit in São João da Barra, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. In 2012, a restoration project was initiated in the area, with implementation of plantings in hexagonal rings and artificial perches. Seedlings were planted in two contrasting situations: sandbanks (dry areas) and depression zones (areas prone to seasonal flooding). The objective of this study was to evaluate the performance of seedlings planted in both areas and accompany natural regeneration. We hypothesised that species planted and recruited in depressions should have better survival rates and increments in height (H) and diameter at the ground level (DGL) than the ones planted in sandbanks. Monitoring of planted seedlings was carried out in November 2016. Both communities had similar mortality (c. 50%). Greater increments in H were found for Inga laurina and Schinus terebinthifolia in depressions. Higher increments in DGL were observed especially for I. laurina, Inga vera and S. terebinthifolia with good performance in both areas. In general, seedlings planted in depressions showed greater performances, which can be related to higher water and nutrient availability. The most abundant natural regenerant species were Scoparia dulcis in sandbanks and S. terebinthifolia in depressions. A high number of regenerants was found associated with artificial perches, especially Cynophalla flexuosa, which demonstrates that the technique facilitated regeneration in the area.
Comparative study of Vertucci and Ahmed classifications to evaluate the main root canal configuration of mandibular incisors in a Brazilian population
Authors: Villa Natália , Weissheimer Theodoro , Vier‐Pelisser Fabiana Vieira , Alcalde Murilo Priori , Vivan Rodrigo Ricci , Duarte Marco Antonio Hungaro , da Rosa Ricardo Abreu , Só Marcus Vinicius Reis
Published: October 2021

This study aimed to compare the main root canal configurations of mandibular incisors (MI) in a Brazilian population using Vertucci and Ahmed et al. classifications. One hundred and sixty‐five human permanent MI were scanned using a micro‐CT. Two examiners classified the samples according to Vertucci and Ahmed et al. classification. Kappa coefficient was employed. The majority of MI had a single root canal (52.1%). Type III Vertucci and 1MI1‐2‐1 Ahmed et al. was the most common 2‐canal MI (20%). In the apical third, the presence of one, two and three canals was found in 81.8%, 15.2% and 3% respectively. In the cervical and middle thirds, one, two and three canals were found in 86%, 12.2% and 1.8% respectively. Ahmed et al. classification was able to classify the entire sample studied, whereas 11 teeth (6.66%) did not fit Vertucci’s classification.
Understanding women’s choices for management of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia 2 (CIN2): Qualitative analysis of a randomised experimental study
Authors: Keers Gemma , Yamada Kozue , Pickles Kristen , Bell Katy , Black Kirsten , Bateson Deborah , Dodd Rachael H.
Published: October 2021

Background

Active surveillance for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia 2 (CIN2) would allow time for most cases to regress naturally and in turn avoid potentially unnecessary and harmful treatment.

Aim

To determine reasons for choosing active surveillance over surgery among women given a hypothetical diagnosis of CIN2.

Materials and Methods

Women residing in Australia aged 25–40 years with no prior diagnosis of cervical cancer, cervical abnormality CIN2 or above, and/or previous hysterectomy, were randomised to one of four identical hypothetical scenarios of testing human papillomavirus (HPV)‐positive: high‐grade cytology and a diagnosis of CIN2 that used alternate terminology to describe resolution of abnormal cells and/or inclusion of an overtreatment statement. Participants selected active surveillance or surgery after viewing the scenario and free‐text reason/s for their choice were thematically analysed.

Results

Of the 1638 women randomised, 79% (n = 1293) opted for active surveillance. The most common reasons for choosing active surveillance included concerns about surgery and associated risks, preferring to ‘wait and see’, trusting the doctor’s recommendations and having an emotional response toward surgery. For women who chose surgery, being risk‐averse, addressing the issue straight away and perceiving surgery to be the better option for them were the most common themes identified.

Conclusion

When presented with balanced information on the benefits and harms of different management options for CIN2 and given a choice, most women in this hypothetical situation chose active surveillance over surgery. Addressing women’s concerns about active surveillance may open up the possibility that if deemed safe, it could be an acceptable alternative for women.
Can Democratic Principles Protect High Courts from Partisan Backlash? Public Reactions to the Kenyan Supreme Court's Role in the 2017 Election Crisis
Authors: Bartels Brandon L. , Horowitz Jeremy , Kramon Eric
Published: October 2021

Public support is central to the emergence of judicial power. Conventional wisdom holds that citizen commitment to democracy and the rule of law sustains this support. An implication is that such commitments should protect courts from partisan backlash following contentious rulings. But this remains largely untested. The Kenyan Supreme Court's historic 2017 elections rulings provide an unusual opportunity to test this expectation. After annulling the incumbent president's victory, the Court upheld his controversial repeat‐election win. With data from a national panel survey—conducted before and after the repeat election—we find important partisan‐based withdrawals/increases in judicial‐power support. There is no evidence that democratic principles attenuated partisan backlash; some were associated with its amplification. However, partisan losers maintain moderately high support despite backlash. Results advance debates about public support for judicial power and provide new evidence about public reactions to assertions of judicial authority in new democracies and electoral autocratic regimes.
Nutrient supplementation for prevention of viral respiratory tract infections in healthy subjects: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Vlieg‐ Boerstra Berber , de Jong Nicolette , Meyer Rosan , Agostoni Carlo , De Cosmi Valentina , Grimshaw Kate , Milani Gregorio Paolo , Muraro Antonella , Oude Elberink Hanneke , Pali‐ Schöll Isabella , Roduit Caroline , Sasaki Mari , Skypala Isabel , Sokolowska Milena , van Splunter Marloes , Untersmayr Eva , Venter Carina , O’Mahony Liam , Nwaru Bright I
Published: October 2021

It remains uncertain as to whether nutrient supplementation for the general population considered healthy could be useful in the prevention of RTIs, such as COVID‐19. In this systematic review and meta‐analysis, the evidence was evaluated for primary prevention of any viral respiratory tract infection (RTI) such as SARS‐CoV‐2, through supplementation of nutrients with a recognized role in immune function: multiple micronutrients, vitamin A, folic acid, vitamin B12, C, D, E, beta‐carotene, zinc, iron and long‐chain polyunsaturated fatty acids. The search produced 15,163 records of which 93 papers (based on 115 studies) met the inclusion criteria, resulting in 199,055 subjects (191,636 children and 7,419 adults) from 37 countries. Sixty‐three studies were included in the meta‐analyses, which was performed for children and adults separately. By stratifying the meta‐analysis by world regions, only studies performed in Asia showed a significant but heterogeneous protective effect of zinc supplementation on RTIs (RR 0.86, 95% CI 0.7–0.96, I2 = 79.1%, p = .000). Vitamin D supplementation in adults significantly decreased the incidence of RTI (RR 0.89, 95% CI 0.79–0.99, p = .272), particularly in North America (RR 0.82 95% CI 0.68–0.97), but not in Europe or Oceania. Supplementation of nutrients in the general population has either no or at most a very limited effect on prevention of RTIs. Zinc supplementation appears protective for children in Asia, whilst vitamin D may protect adults in the USA and Canada. In 10/115 (8.7%) studies post‐hoc analyses based on stratification for nutritional status was performed. In only one study zinc supplementation was found to be more effective in children with low zinc serum as compared to children with normal zinc serum levels.
Recurrence of postpartum hemorrhage in relatives: A population‐based cohort study
Authors: Linde Lorentz Erland , Ebbing Cathrine , Moster Dag , Kessler Jørg , Baghestan Elham , Gissler Mika , Rasmussen Svein
Published: October 2021

Introduction

Studies on the family aggregation of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) are scarce and with inconsistent results, and to what extent current birthweight influences recurrence between relatives remains to be studied. Further, family aggregation of PPH has been studied from an individual, but not from a public heath perspective. We aimed to investigate family aggregation of PPH in Norway, how birthweight influences these effects, and to estimate the proportion of PPH cases attributable to a family history of PPH and current birthweight.

Material and methods

Using data from the Medical Birth Registry of Norway, Statistics Norway, and Central Population Registry of Norway we identified individuals as newborns, parents, grandparents, and full and half‐siblings, and studied 1 002 687 mother–offspring, 841 164 father–offspring, and 761 011 both‐parents–offspring pairs. We used multilevel logistic regression to calculate odds ratios (OR) with 95% CI.

Results

If the birth of the mother but not of the father involved PPH, then the OR of PPH (>500 mL) in the next generation was 1.44 (95% CI 1.39–1.49). If the birth of the father but not of the mother involved PPH, then OR was 1.12 (95% CI 1.08–1.16). These effects were stronger in severe PPH. Recurrence between siblings was highest between full sisters (OR 1.47, 95% CI 1.41–1.52), followed by maternal half‐sisters, paternal half‐sisters, and partners of full brothers. A family history of PPH or birthweight of 4000 g or more accounted for ≤5% and 15% of the total number of PPH cases, respectively.

Conclusions

A history of PPH in relatives influenced the recurrence risk of PPH in a dose–response pattern consistent with the anticipated proportion of shared genes. The recurrence was highest through the maternal line.
Worldwide post‐marketing safety surveillance experience with tofacitinib in ulcerative colitis
Authors: Rubin David T. , Modesto Irene , Vermeire Séverine , Danese Silvio , Ng Siew C. , Kwok Kenneth K. , Koram Nana , Jones Thomas V.
Published: October 2021

Background

Tofacitinib is an oral Janus kinase inhibitor for the treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC). Post‐marketing surveillance (PMS) is an important part of monitoring adverse events (AEs).

Aims

To report an analysis of PMS case safety reports for tofacitinib in patients with UC

Methods

Worldwide tofacitinib PMS reports received in the Pfizer safety database from 30 May 2018 (first regulatory approval) to 25 August 2020 were analysed. The type and estimated reporting rate (RR) of serious AEs of interest, including infection, gastrointestinal, vascular, respiratory, neoplasm and cardiac events, were reviewed. Patient‐years of exposure (PY) was estimated based on worldwide sales data and the calculated daily regimens of tofacitinib 5 or 10 mg twice daily, immediate‐ or extended‐release formulations.

Results

During the 27‐month reporting period, worldwide post‐marketing exposure to tofacitinib was 8916 PY. Overall, 4226 case reports were received and included 12 103 AEs, of which 1839 were serious AEs (SAEs). Among the cases reported, 1141 (27.0%) included an SAE and 18 (0.4%) were fatal. The RR (per 100 PY) for SAEs of interest by Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities System Organ Class were 3.28 for infections, 1.26 for vascular disorders, 0.74 for respiratory disorders, 0.55 for neoplasms and 0.50 for cardiac disorders.

Conclusions

The types of AEs were consistent with those reported in tofacitinib clinical trials. Most reported AEs were non‐serious. Limitations of PMS reports and reliance on estimated RRs due to lack of precise values for exposure, required for incidence rate calculation, should be considered when interpreting these results.
Prevalence, symptoms and risk factor profile of rumination syndrome and functional dyspepsia: a population‐based study
Authors: Zand Irani Mudar , Jones Michael P. , Halland Magnus , Herrick Linda , Choung Rok Seon , Saito Loftus Yuri A. , Walker Marjorie M. , Murray Joseph A. , Talley Nicholas J.
Published: October 2021

Background

Rumination syndrome is a functional gastroduodenal disorder characterised by effortless regurgitation of recently ingested food. Emerging evidence reports duodenal eosinophilic inflammation in a subset, suggesting a shared pathophysiology with functional dyspepsia (FD).

Aim

To assess the clinical features of rumination syndrome and FD in a community‐based study.

Methods

We mailed a survey assessing gastrointestinal symptoms, diet and psychological symptoms to 9835 residents of Olmsted County, MN, USA in 2017‐2018; diagnostic codes were obtained from linked clinical records. The two disorders were assessed as mutually exclusive in ‘pure’ forms with a separate overlap group, all compared to a control group not meeting criteria for either. Prevalence of associations, and univariate and independent associations with predictors were assessed by logistic regression.

Results

Prevalence of rumination syndrome and FD were 5.8% and 7.1%, respectively; the overlap was 3.83‐times more likely than expected by chance. Independent predictors for rumination (odds ratio (OR), 95% confidence interval (CI)) were female gender (1.79, 1.21‐2.63), smoking (1.89, 1.28‐2.78), gluten‐free diet (1.58, 1.14‐2.19), allergic rhinitis (1.45, 1.01‐2.08) and depression (1.10, 1.05‐1.16). FD was independently associated with female gender, depression, non‐coeliac wheat sensitivity, migraine, irritable bowel syndrome and somatic symptoms. A similar reported efficacy (≥54%) of low fat or dairy‐free diets was found with both disorders (P = 0.53 andP = 1.00, respectively). The strongest independent associations with overlapping FD and rumination syndrome were a history of rheumatoid arthritis (3.93, 1.28‐12.06) and asthma (3.02, 1.44‐6.34).

Conclusion

Rumination syndrome overlaps with FD with a shared risk factor profile, suggesting a common pathophysiology.
Effect of lactic acid bacteria, molasses, and their combination on the fermentation quality and bacterial community of cassava foliage silage
Authors: Li Mao , Zi Xuejuan , Zhou Hanlin , Lv Renlong , Tang Jun , Cai Yimin
Published: October 2021

This study investigated the effects of LAB inoculants (L) and molasses (M) on the microbial community and fermentation quality of cassava foliage (CF). The small segments (about 2–3 cm) CF were ensiled in plastic bags and incubated at normal temperature (25°C). Four treatments were carried out as follows: control (no additives, CK), LAB inoculants (Lactobacillus plantarum, L), molasses (M), and LAB in combination with molasses (LM). The LAB and molasses obviously altered the bacterial community structure of the CF silage and enhanced the fermentation quality. The combination addition could increase the abundance of Lactobacillus and reduce the Pseudomonas. The LAB and molasses also significantly elevated the lactic acid concentration (P < 0.001) and decreased the pH (P < 0.001), as well as the concentrations of acetic acid, propionic acid, butyric acid, and ammonia‐N (P < 0.05). In addition, the combination treatment displayed more effective results on silage fermentation. The LAB and molasses improved the fermentation quality of the CF silage by altering the bacterial community structure. Furthermore, the bacterial community was significantly correlated with fermentation indexes.
Real‐world data on survival improvement in patients with multiple myeloma treated at a single institution over a 45‐year period
Authors: Rodríguez‐Lobato Luis Gerardo , Pereira Arturo , Fernández de Larrea Carlos , Cibeira Maria Teresa , Tovar Natalia , Jiménez‐Segura Raquel , Moreno David F. , Oliver‐Caldés Aina , Rosiñol Laura , Bladé Joan
Published: October 2021

The prognostic landscape of multiple myeloma (MM) has evolved significantly over the last few decades. There are, however, few data measuring such improvement in real‐world patients. This study aimed to investigate trends in survival improvement over 45 years, and the associated clinical factors, in an unselected population of patients with MM. Between 1970 and 2015, 1 161 MM patients were included. Patients were classified into three calendar periods (1970–1984, 1985–1999, and 2000–2015), according to the treatment received; polychemotherapy, autologous stem cell transplantation, and novel drugs respectively. We analysed relative survival (RS) to accurately evaluate MM‐related death rates after excluding the mortality expected in the general population. RS at five years increased from 27% in 1970–1984 to 38% and 56% in the next two calendar periods respectively. The improvement to survival was greater in the younger population, but it was also observed in elderly patients and those with poor performance status and more advanced disease. Although myeloma is still a non‐curable disease, encouraging results have been observed in the last decades. Progress is expected to continue with the use of new generations of anti‐myeloma drugs, and will, hopefully, be documented in real‐world patients by the appropriate population‐based studies.
Programmed death (PD)‐1/PD‐ligand 1 blockade mediates antiangiogenic effects by tumor‐derived CXCL10/11 as a potential predictive biomarker
Authors: Mitsuhashi Atsushi , Kondoh Kensuke , Horikawa Kazuki , Koyama Kazuya , Nguyen Na Thi , Afroj Tania , Yoneda Hiroto , Otsuka Kenji , Ogino Hirokazu , Nokihara Hiroshi , Shinohara Tsutomu , Nishioka Yasuhiko
Published: October 2021

Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) programmed death (PD)‐1/PD‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) blockade has been approved for various cancers. However, the underlying antitumor mechanisms mediated by ICIs and the predictive biomarkers remain unclear. We report the effects of anti‐PD‐L1/PD‐1 Ab in tumor angiogenesis. In syngeneic mouse models, anti‐PD‐L1 Ab inhibited tumor angiogenesis and induces net‐like hypoxia only in ICI‐sensitive cell lines. In tumor tissue and serum of ICI‐sensitive cell line‐bearing mice, interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ) inducible angiostatic chemokines CXCL10/11 were upregulated by PD‐L1 blockade. In vitro, CXCL10/11 gene upregulation by IFN‐γ stimulation in tumor cell lines correlated with the sensitivity of PD‐L1 blockade. The CXCL10/11 receptor CXCR3‐neutralizing Ab or CXCL11 silencing in tumor cells inhibited the antiangiogenic effect of PD‐L1 blockade in vivo. In pretreatment serum of lung carcinoma patients receiving anti‐PD‐1 Ab, the concentration of CXCL10/11 significantly correlated with the clinical outcome. Our results indicate the antiangiogenic function of PD‐1/PD‐L1 blockade and identify tumor‐derived CXCL10/11 as a potential circulating biomarker of therapeutic sensitivity.
The lived realities of left‐behind children in Mainland China: Life and values education in the home and at school
Authors: Ao Xia , Briffett Aktaş Carla
Published: October 2021

Left‐behind children (LBC) are a social and educational concern in China. Researchers have identified psychological and behavioural effects on LBC. This study creates a profile of LBC in rural Sichuan and identifies life and values education (LVE) as a beneficial intervention. Interviews were conducted with six LBC, two parents and one teacher. The data indicate that LBC face challenges in the areas of parental communication, being raised in non‐parental homes, family and social networks, and regulation of emotions. LVE may help minimise the negative consequences experienced by LBC but lack of parental and educator LVE knowledge may hinder implementation.
The need for formal reflexivity in conservation science
Authors: Boyce Paul , Bhattacharyya Jonaki , Linklater Wayne
Published: October 2021

Conservation issues are often complicated by sociopolitical controversies that reflect competing philosophies and values regarding natural systems, animals, and people. Effective conservation outcomes require managers to engage myriad influences (social, cultural, political, and economic, as well as ecological). The contribution of conservation scientists who generate the information on which solutions rely is constrained if they are unable to acknowledge how personal values and disciplinary paradigms influence their research and conclusions. Conservation challenges involving controversial species provide an opportunity to reflect on the paradigms and value systems that underpin the discipline and practice of conservation science. Recent analyses highlight the ongoing reliance on normative values in conservation. We frame our discussion around controversies over feral horses (Equus ferus caballus) in the Canadian West and New Zealand and suggest that a lack of transparency and reflexivity regarding normative values continues to prevent conservation practitioners from finding resilient conservation solutions. We suggest that growing scrutiny and backlash to many normative conservation objectives necessitates formal reflexivity methods in conservation biology research, similar to those required of researchers in social science disciplines. Moreover, given that much conservation research and action continues to prioritize Western normative values regarding nature and conservation, we suggest that adopting reflexive methods more broadly is an important step toward more socially just research and practice. Formalizing such methods and requiring reflexivity in research will not only encourage reflection on how personal and disciplinary value systems influence conservation work but could more effectively engage people with diverse perspectives and values in conservation and encourage more novel and resilient conservation outcomes, particularly when dealing with controversial species.
Non‐neoplastic respiratory fluid cytology including cell differential counts for interstitial lung disease
Authors: Rice Alexandra J.
Published: October 2021

Bronchioloalveolar lavage (BAL) is a non‐invasive and well‐tolerated procedure that plays a key role in the diagnosis of a variety of non‐neoplastic pulmonary diseases, including acute respiratory failure, infection, diffuse parenchymal lung disease (DLPD), paediatric and occupational lung disease, and in the evaluation of the lung allograft. A variety of analytic techniques are commonly performed on BAL fluid, including cytology, cell differential count, microbiology and virology, as well as a number of additional techniques in specific circumstances.
Trends in transdermal fentanyl utilisation and fatal fentanyl overdose across Australia (2003–2015)
Authors: Rahman Shafkat , Trussell Alex , Pearson Sallie‐Anne , Buckley Nicholas A. , Karanges Emily A. , Cairns Rose , Litchfield Melisa , Todd Adam , Gisev Natasa
Published: October 2021

Introduction

Fentanyl‐related overdose is an ongoing concern among countries with high prescription opioid utilisation. This study examines trends in transdermal fentanyl utilisation and fatal fentanyl overdose across Australia between 2003 and 2015, overall, and by age/sex.

Methods

This was a retrospective nationwide study of prescription dispensings and coronial records. Transdermal fentanyl utilisation was examined using Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme dispensing records. Details of fatal fentanyl overdoses were extracted from the National Coronial Information System.

Results

Transdermal fentanyl utilisation increased 5.1‐fold between 2003 and 2015, from 0.28 to 1.39 mg/1000 population/day and was consistently higher among females and adults aged ≥85 years. The utilisation of higher strength patches (75 and 100 mcg/h) was more common among males aged 25–44 years. A total of 291 fatal fentanyl overdoses were recorded, increasing from no recorded deaths in 2003 to 2.23 deaths/1 000 000 population in 2015. Rates were higher among males (increasing from 0 to 3.72 deaths/1 000 000 population) and for adults aged 25–44 years (increasing from 0 to 5.34 deaths/1 000 000 population). The number of deaths/kg fentanyl dispensed was highest among males aged <25 years (45.45, 95% confidence interval 21.80–83.59). Most deaths (70.1%) involved the intravenous administration of fentanyl from transdermal patches.

Discussion and Conclusions

Rates of transdermal fentanyl utilisation and fatal fentanyl overdose across Australia increased between 2003 and 2015. Although transdermal fentanyl utilisation was consistently greater among females and older adults, rates of fatal fentanyl overdose were highest among younger males. Interventions to reduce extramedical use among this high‐risk population group are necessary to minimise fentanyl‐related harms.
How does supplier CSR performance help to expand exchange relationships with major buyers? The moderating role of supply‐side and demand‐driven uncertainty
Authors: Liu Xiaojin , Kou Ying , Shockley Jeff , Smith Jeffery S.
Published: October 2021

Most studies of corporate social responsibility (CSR) performance in a supply chain context have been conducted from the buyer's perspective. Few have paid attention to how suppliers leverage this kind of performance to expand exchange relationships with major customers. From a resource dependence and social exchange perspective, this article specifically examines whether two supplier CSR performance dimensions—environmental and product performance—can serve as a mechanism to expand a supplier's relationships with a smaller number of major buyers, where its increasing exchange dependence often measures this factor. Moreover, these dependent relationships may further develop and change under different conditions of uncertainty. Using large‐scale longitudinal data to test the proposed model, we find empirical evidence that a supplier's environmental and product performance relate positively to greater customer dependence and improved financial performance across diverse sets of industries. However, the findings also reveal that both demand‐driven and supply‐side uncertainty can weaken the effect. Specifically, the positive effect of environmental performance tends to weaken in the face of supply‐side uncertainty, whereas the positive effect of product performance tends to weaken amid demand‐driven uncertainty. Accordingly, we note important nuances and contingencies for suppliers to consider when considering how investments in these CSR performance dimensions affect exchange dependence.
The climate envelope of Alaska's northern treelines: implications for controlling factors and future treeline advance
Authors: Maher Colin T. , Dial Roman J. , Pastick Neal J. , Hewitt Rebecca E. , Jorgenson M. Torre , Sullivan Patrick F.
Published: October 2021

Understanding the key mechanisms that control northern treelines is important to accurately predict biome shifts and terrestrial feedbacks to climate. At a global scale, it has long been observed that elevational and latitudinal treelines occur at similar mean growing season air temperature (GSAT) isotherms, inspiring the growth limitation hypothesis (GLH) that cold GSAT limits aboveground growth of treeline trees, with mean treeline GSAT ~6–7°C. Treelines with mean GSAT warmer than 6–7°C may indicate other limiting factors. Many treelines globally are not advancing despite warming, and other climate variables are rarely considered at broad scales. Our goals were to test whether current boreal treelines in northern Alaska correspond with the GLH isotherm, determine which environmental factors are most predictive of treeline presence, and identify areas beyond the current treeline where advance is most likely. We digitized ~12 400 km of treelines (>26 K points) and computed seasonal climate variables across northern Alaska. We then built a generalized additive model predicting treeline presence to identify key factors determining treeline. Two metrics of mean GSAT at Alaska's northern treelines were consistently warmer than the 6–7°C isotherm (means of 8.5°C and 9.3°C), indicating that direct physiological limitation from low GSAT is unlikely to explain the position of treelines in northern Alaska. Our final model included cumulative growing degree‐days and near‐surface (≤1 m) permafrost probability, which together may represent the importance of soil temperature. Our results indicate that mean GSAT may not be the primary driver of treeline in northern Alaska or that its effect is mediated by other more proximate, and possibly non‐climatic, controls. Our model predicts treeline potential in several areas beyond current treelines, pointing to possible routes of treeline advance if unconstrained by non‐climatic factors.
Invasion success and tolerance to urbanization in birds
Authors: González‐Lagos César , Cardador Laura , Sol Daniel
Published: October 2021

Cities are considered hotspots of biological invasions, yet it remains unclear why non‐indigenous species are so successful in environments that most local native species do not tolerate. Here, we explore the intriguing possibility that humans may be unintentionally introducing species preadapted to persist in such environments. Combining data on historical introductions with information of avian assemblages along urban–wildland gradients, we found that avian species that in their native range proliferate in human‐altered environments have been more likely to be transported and introduced to new locations than species confined to the wildland. We also found that such urban dwellers had higher chances to become established because they already had adaptations to cope with novel environments. These findings suggest that the pathway of introduction selects for species preadapted to persist in novel environments, providing an explanation for why non‐indigenous birds are so successful in cities. Because the tendency to introduce species associated with human‐altered environments continues, there is an urgent need to develop new regulations to prevent future introductions.
Measuring the water retention curve of rock fragments: A novel repacked core methodology
Authors: Robertson Balin B. , Gillespie Julie D. , Carrick Sam T. , Almond Peter C. , Payne John , Chau Henry W. , Smith Carol M. S.
Published: October 2021

We describe a novel suction plate experiment that uses large, repacked soil cores comprising clasts and a fine‐textured matrix to accurately measure the water retention curve of rock fragments (RFs) of high and low porosity. The method incorporates a suction plate‐core containment system that can be weighed as a unit, to overcome typical core size restrictions. The method relies on analysing the relationship between total core volumetric water content and RF concentration. Cores are packed with a mix of glass and RFs to maintain a uniform volumetric total clast proportion of 30% while RF concentration varies. A constant total clast volume improves accuracy and precision by ensuring the water‐holding characteristics of the matrix varies as little as possible among cores.

Highlights

We determine the water retention curve of greywacke‐pumice clasts in large, repacked soil cores.

A suction plate‐core containment system that is weighed as a unit allows large cores to be used.

WRC is determined with cores of varying rock%, but total clast% stays constant by adding glass.

By using the above, the WRC of low and high porosity rocks can be measured precisely.
Interview with Tony Parkes: Landcare meets science
Authors: Parkes Tony , McDonald Tein
Published: October 2021

Tony Parkes is the long‐standing dynamo behind Big Scrub Landcare, a rural landholder group bursting with vision and commitment to bring the best science and practice to the task of restoring what was Australia’s largest tract of subtropical rainforest. What has helped this rural Landcare group become strongly linked to science and best practice?
Family Trouble: Changing (Dis)Orders and Psychotherapeutic Interventions in Uganda
Authors: Vorhölter Julia
Published: October 2021

The recent popularization of psychotherapy in Uganda, while reflecting a global trend, is also a response to the far‐reaching political, economic, and social transformations the country has undergone since 1986. These have caused new forms of stress and uncertainty and triggered desires for new forms of sense‐making and care, particularly among middle‐class Ugandans who are struggling with lifestyle‐related suffering and family conflicts. Psychotherapy in Uganda is intimately, but paradoxically, entangled with neoliberal capitalism. By helping individuals adapt to capitalist modernity, psychotherapists help to reproduce the very system whose ills they are treating. However, they also believe that psychotherapy can produce critical counternarratives and a new form of care that challenges conventional hierarchies, ideologies, and norms. Based on an ethnographic case study of a symposium on family therapy, this article investigates the complex position of Ugandan therapists as mediators of social change and translators of new forms of knowledge.
The Importance of Null Hypotheses: Understanding Differences in Local Moran’s under Heteroskedasticity
Authors: Sauer Jeffery , Oshan Taylor , Rey Sergio , Wolf Levi John
Published: October 2021

A recent review noted important differences in the results of the local Moran's statistic depending on the inference method. These differences had significant practical implications. In closing, the authors speculated the differences may be due to local spatial heterogeneity. In this article, we propose that different null hypotheses, not heteroskedasticity, generate these differences. To test this, we examine the null hypotheses implicit in common statistical significance tests of local Moran’s . We design an experiment to assess the impact of local heterogeneity on tests conducted under the two most common null hypotheses. In this experiment, we analyze the relationship between measures of local variance, such as the local spatial heteroskedasticity (LOSH) statistic, and components of the local Moran’s statistic. We run this experiment with controlled synthetic heteroskedastic data and with uncontrolled real‐world data with varying degrees and patterns of local heteroskedasticity. We show that, in both situations, estimates that use the same null are extremely similar, regardless of estimation method. In contrast, all estimates (regardless of the null) are moderately affected by spatial heteroskedasticity. Ultimately, this article demonstrates that there are important conceptual and computational differences about null hypothesis in local testing frameworks, and these differences can have significant practical implications. Therefore, researchers must be aware as to how their choices may shape the observed spatial patterns.
Tooth loss, dental prostheses use and cognitive performance in older Brazilian adults: The SABE cohort study
Authors: Bof de Andrade Fabiola , de Oliveira Cesar , de Oliveira Duarte Yeda Aparecida , Sabbah Wael , Bernabé Eduardo
Published: October 2021

Aim

To investigate the within‐ and between‐person longitudinal effects of tooth loss and the use of dentures, clinically assessed by dentists, on cognitive decline in a representative sample of community‐dwelling older Brazilian adults.

Methods

Data came from 1265, 1112 and 1021 individuals aged ≥60 years who participated in the second (2006), third (2010) and fourth (2015) waves, respectively, of the Health, Well‐being and Aging study (SABE). Cognitive performance was evaluated with the abbreviated version of the Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE). The number of natural teeth was classified according to three categories: none, 1–19 and ≥20 teeth. The presence of removable full or partial dentures in each dental arch (yes/no) was recorded. Hybrid regression models, adjusted for sociodemographic, behavior and health‐related covariates, were used to estimate the between‐ and within‐person effects of the longitudinal association between cognitive performance and oral health.

Results

Participants with 1–19 and no teeth had, respectively, 1.15 (95% CI 0.65–1.66) and 1.54 (95% CI 0.99–2.09) units lower MMSE score than those with ≥20 teeth. Denture wearers had 1.54 (95% CI 1.13–1.95) units greater MMSE score than non‐denture wearers, and those who started wearing dentures during the follow up had 0.83 (95% CI 0.21–1.45) units greater MMSE score after the transition.

Conclusion

Our main findings showed that the use of dental prostheses might be a protective factor for cognitive decline. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2021; 21: 1093–1098.
Thrombomodulin in patients with mild to moderate bleeding tendency
Authors: Mehic Dino , Tolios Alexander , Hofer Stefanie , Ay Cihan , Haslacher Helmuth , Downes Kate , Haimel Matthias , Pabinger Ingrid , Gebhart Johanna
Published: October 2021

Introduction

A massive increase of soluble thrombomodulin (sTM) due to variants in the thrombomodulin gene (THBD) has recently been identified as a novel bleeding disorder.

Aim

To investigate sTM levels and underlying genetic variants as a cause for haemostatic impairment and bleeding in a large number of patients with a mild to moderate bleeding disorder (MBD), including patients with bleeding of unknown cause (BUC).

Patients and methods

In 507 MBD patients, sTM levels, thrombin generation and plasma clot formation were measured and compared to 90 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy controls. In patients, genetic analysis of the THBD gene was performed.

Results

No difference in sTM levels between patients and controls was found overall (median ([IQR] 5.0 [3.8‐6.3] vs. 5.1 [3.7‐6.4] ng/ml, p = .762), and according to specific diagnoses of MBD or BUC, and high sTM levels (≥95th percentile of healthy controls) were not overrepresented in patients. Soluble TM levels had no impact on bleeding severity or global tests of haemostasis, including thrombin generation or plasma clot formation. In the THBD gene, no known pathogenic or novel disease‐causing variants affecting sTM plasma levels were identified in our patient cohort.

Conclusion

TM‐associated coagulopathy appears to be rare, as it was not identified in our large cohort of patients with MBD. Soluble TM did not arise as a risk factor for bleeding or altered haemostasis in these patients.