bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A cattle graph genome incorporating global breed diversity
Authors: Talenti A. , Powell J. , Hemmink J.D. , Cook E.A.J. , Wragg D. , Jayaraman S. , Paxton E. , Ezeasor C. , Obishakin E.T. , Agusi E.R. , Tijjani A. , Marshall K. , Fisch A. , Ferreira B. , Qasim A. , Chaudhry U.N. , Wiener P. , P. Toye , Morrison L.J. , Connelley T. , Prendergast J.
Published: June 2021

Despite only 8% of cattle being found in Europe, European breeds dominate current genetic resources. This adversely impacts cattle research in other important global cattle breeds. To mitigate this issue, we have generated the first assemblies of African breeds, which have been integrated with genomic data for 294 diverse cattle into the first graph genome that incorporates global cattle diversity. We illustrate how this more representative reference assembly contains an extra 116.1Mb (4.2%) of sequence absent from the current Hereford sequence and consequently inaccessible to current studies. We further demonstrate how using this graph genome increases read mapping rates, reduces allelic biases and improves the agreement of structural variant calling with independent optical mapping data. Consequently, we present an improved, more representative, reference assembly that will improve global cattle research.
Phylodynamic assessment of control measures for highly pathogenic avian influenza epidemics in France
Authors: Chakraborty Debapriyo , Guinat Claire , Müller Nicola F. , Briand Francois-Xavier , Andraud Mathieu , Scoizec Axelle , Lebouquin Sophie , Niqueux Eric , Schmitz Audrey , Grasland Beatrice , Guerin Jean-Luc , Paul Mathilde C. , Vergne Timothée
Published: June 2021

Phylodynamic methods have successfully been used to describe viral spread history but their applications for assessing specific control measures are rare. In 2016-17, France experienced a devastating epidemic of a highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (H5N8 clade 2.3.4.4b). Using 196 viral genomes, we conducted a phylodynamic analysis combined with generalised linear model and showed that the large-scale preventive culling of ducks significantly reduced the viral spread betweendépartements(French administrative division). We also found that the virus likely spread more frequently betweendépartementsthat shared borders, but the spread was not linked to duck transport betweendépartements. Duck transport withindépartementsincreased the within-départementtransmission intensity, although the association was weak. Together, these results indicated that the virus spread in short-distances, either between adjacentdépartementsor withindépartements. Results also suggested that the restrictions on duck transport withindépartementsmight not have stopped the viral spread completely. Overall, by testing specific hypothesis related to different control measures, we demonstrated that phylodynamics methods are capable of investigating the impacts of control measures on viral spread.
Molecular Features Underlying Shp1/Shp2 Discrimination by Immune Checkpoint Receptors
Authors: Xu Xiaozheng , Masubuchi Takeya , Zhao Yunlong , Hui Enfu
Published: June 2021

Numerous inhibitory immunoreceptors operate by recruiting phosphatase effectors Shp1 and Shp2 through conserved motifs ITIM and ITSM. Despite the similarity, these receptors exhibit distinct effector binding specificities, as exemplified by PD-1 and BTLA, which preferentially recruit Shp2 and Shp1 respectively. The molecular basis of Shp1/Shp2 discrimination is unclear. Here, we provide evidence that optimal PD-1 and BTLA binding to both Shp1 and Shp2 occurs via a bivalent, parallel mode that involves both SH2 domains of Shp1/Shp2. Moreover, PD-1 mainly uses its ITSM to discriminate Shp2 from Shp1 via their C-terminal SH2 domains. Supportive of this model, swapping the Shp1-cSH2 with Shp2-cSH2 enabled PD-1:Shp1 association in T cells. In contrast, BTLA primarily utilizes its ITIM to discriminate Shp1 from Shp2 via their N-terminal SH2 domains. Substitution of glycine at pY+1 position of the PD-1-ITIM with alanine, a residue conserved in several Shp1-recruiting receptors, was sufficient to induce PD-1:Shp1 interaction in T cells. Finally, mutagenesis screening shows that Shp1 recruitment exhibits a bell-shaped dependence on the side chain volume of the pY+1 residue of ITIM. Collectively, we provide a molecular interpretation of the Shp1/Shp2-binding specificities of PD-1 and BTLA, with general implications for the mechanism of effector discrimination by inhibitory receptors.
The current trends in mosque architecture in the northern cities of the United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Authors: Awad Jihad
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The main aim of this study is to identify the prevailing design trends in contemporary mosques in northern cities of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It highlights the key elements and features to categorize mosques.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the literature review, four major stylistic expressions were identified, which formed the theoretical basis for a survey conducted to study 50 mosques in each of the four northern cities: Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain and Ras Al Khaimah. The 200 visited mosques were investigated and analyzed based on the four categories. The comparison between these mosques enabled the author to identify the key elements and features that can be adopted in classifying mosques in relation to the four main trends.

Findings

The study reveals that there is a strong attachment with local historic styles. In total, 86% of the mosques follow traditional and historic styles. While 74% of Sharjah mosques follow historicism, 64–72% in the other cities adopt local traditional. Almost all investigated mosques follow one layout, but with diverse stylistic expressions. Some major elements are common among all mosques, while other minor elements are found in all congregational mosques. The study identified key indicators that can be used to help classifying mosques in other cities and countries.

Originality/value

This is the first study to categorize mosques in the UAE. There are few studies on mosques in Sharjah and Ajman, focusing on typology and sustainability, with less emphasis on styles. The results of this study can be considered by architects as well as by authorities. It can also be used as a reference for other studies.
Prioritising public spaces architectural strategies for autistic users
Authors: Sheykhmaleki Pariya , Yazdanfar Seyed Abbas Agha , Litkouhi Sanaz , Nazarian Masoumeh , Price Andrew David Freeman
Published: June 2021

Purpose

According to architectural research, modifying environmental features has the potential to create an appropriate sensory environment for autistic children. Considering the design of public environments, it is difficult to accommodate the diverse requirements of each autistic child. The main objective of this paper is to find out the most prevalent architectural strategies and to prioritise them for the design of the public spaces addressing autistic children's needs.

Design/methodology/approach

This research is designed in two stages: (1) descriptive approach in which architectural strategies are extracted from theories on autism design to determine a theoretical test module; and (2) quantitative approach in which the frequency of gained strategies are studied in two groups of references: general references and key references (i.e. most cited and well-reputed researchers in autism architecture) while universal design strategies and the timeline of each strategy is considered for the conclusion.

Findings

The following strategies were highly significant: (1) acoustical control, (2) visual control, (3) legibility, (4) safety and security, (5) predictable spaces. Acoustic was frequently considered in both control and general groups while it was highlighted in timeline study and universal design strategies.

Research limitations/implications

The main limitation is that these strategies have been prioritised according to their frequency in some limited articles and a control group including the pioneer of autism design researchers while verifying these strategies may not be strong enough. Likewise, the conclusion related to these data cannot be accurate enough. Establishing a case study survey that provides an opportunity to test all these strategies directly on a majority of autistic children and measure their prevalence is advised. Finally, it should be considered that although the five mentioned strategies are all the most prevalent strategies among autistic children, as each autistic child differs from others, generalising the conclusion for all the public area would be impossible, as though we need to study it for each group of them.

Originality/value

Seeking to improve the strategies' prioritisation as determined by previous researchers, this article aims to define the most essential strategies categories in this field to eliminate the confusion of researchers and designers.
Does the attention-grabbing mechanism work on Sundays? Influence of social and religious factors on investors' attention
Authors: Ferretti Riccardo , Sciandra Andrea
Published: June 2021

Purpose

This paper focuses on the influence of social, cultural and religious factors on investors' attention. In particular, the authors examined if the attention-grabbing mechanism works on Sundays, that is, if the Italians' Sunday activities and habits lead to a lower attention to second-hand financial news, compared to Saturdays.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors analyzed the market reaction to equivalent stale events published on the Saturday and Sunday editions of an Italian financial newspaper and conducted a standard event study on abnormal returns and abnormal volumes for Saturday and Sunday columns and a multivariate analysis on abnormal returns for columns reporting positive recommendations. As a robustness check, the authors performed a sentiment analysis of the columns and included this variable in the regression analysis, but sentiment proved to be not significant in the final model.

Findings

The study’s results confirmed that the attention-grabbing mechanism directed buying decisions, while had no influence on selling decisions. Furthermore, event study and multivariate analysis showed a significant lower market reaction to Sunday columns, supporting the study hypothesis of a Sunday investors' inattention which can be traced to cultural and/or religious factors since Sunday in Italy is a day devoted to family, entertainment and religious rituals.

Practical implications

The lower investors' attention on Sundays and the related influence of social, cultural and religious factors have implications for the timing of both corporate communications and financial advertising.

Originality/value

The authors’ paper provides an original contribution, on the empirical ground, to the attention-grabbing theory and to the growing theoretical literature in microeconomics that models attention.
Invasion theory as a management tool for increasing native biodiversity in urban ecosystems
Authors: Cadotte Marc W. , Potgieter Luke J. , Wang Chih Julie , MacIvor J. Scott
Published: June 2021

Human activity has altered ecosystems in some places to a point where traditional restoration, ecosystem management and conservation interventions might not be feasible. This is especially true in densely populated urban areas if ongoing stressors are not ameliorated. As a result, different management options are needed for increasing native biodiversity and ecosystem function in novel urban ecosystems.

One strategy for increasing biodiversity in urban ecosystems is to employ invasion biology theory to augment the establishment and proliferation of desirable native species. Invasion hypotheses, including fluctuating resources, enemy release, novel weapons, invasional meltdown (facilitation) and propagule pressure, all provide insights into the mechanisms that increase the establishment and spread of populations. These hypotheses point to specific interventions that can be used in urban restoration and management.

Synthesis and applications. Viewing invasion mechanisms as a way to increase native biodiversity in novel urban ecosystems provides a useful reframing for assessing possible applications and management interventions for the most difficult‐to‐restore landscapes. We argue that conservation managers can use and test invasion hypotheses to inform biodiversity management practices in novel landscapes.
Evidence‐based restoration of freshwater biodiversity after mining: Experience from Central European spoil heaps
Authors: Kolar Vojtech , Tichanek Filip , Tropek Robert
Published: June 2021

Post‐mining freshwater habitats can serve as secondary habitats for threatened species. Being globally plentiful, their efficient restoration should be based on detailed evidence, especially under the current global decline of freshwater biodiversity. Synthetic studies focusing on the effects of restoration on freshwater communities are surprisingly rare, even for the most common restoration approaches. Such a lack of evidence limits the efficiency of habitat restoration in post‐mining landscapes.

We combined a landscape‐scale field study of aquatic beetles and hemipterans in 29 freshwater pools at lignite spoil heaps in Czechia with a comparative synthesis of all 14 available datasets on freshwater communities at habitats created by coal mining in Central Europe. We compared the diversity and conservation value of freshwater habitats created by the main restoration approaches, including technical reclamation, spontaneous succession and their combination. Additionally, we analysed the detailed influence of key habitat descriptors on their conservation potential.

Communities of aquatic beetles and hemipterans had more species in spontaneously and semi‐spontaneously developed pools, which were also preferred by more red‐listed species of both studied groups. The reviewed studies showed the same trend for amphibians, odonates, dipterans and macrozoobenthos, although some technically created pools and drainage ditches harboured some threatened species of aquatic plants, odonates and macrozoobenthos as well.

Relatively independent of the restoration approach, the conservation value of freshwater communities was related to the particular characteristics of the restored habitats. The key beneficial features were as follows: smaller area of restored water bodies, heterogeneous littoral vegetation with suppressed dominants, heterogeneous bottom substrate with low and gradually sloping banks, absence of fish, sun‐exposed water surface and some forests in the surroundings.

Synthesis and applications. Efficient restoration of freshwater habitats at post‐mining landscapes can create important secondary refuges for threatened and common species. Freshwater communities of high conservation value can be supported by all main restoration approaches if heterogeneous habitats are created. A combination of technical reclamation with spontaneous succession seems to be the most efficient approach to maximise biodiversity in freshwater habitats at coal‐mining spoil heaps.
DNA‐stable isotope probing (DNA‐SIP) identifies marine sponge‐associated bacteria actively utilizing dissolved organic matter (DOM)
Authors: Campana Sara , Busch Kathrin , Hentschel Ute , Muyzer Gerard , de Goeij Jasper M.
Published: June 2021

Sponges possess exceptionally diverse associated microbial communities and play a major role in (re)cycling of dissolved organic matter (DOM) in marine ecosystems. Linking sponge‐associated community structure with DOM utilization is essential to understand host–microbe interactions in the uptake, processing, and exchange of resources. We coupled, for the first time, DNA‐stable isotope probing (DNA‐SIP) with 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing in a sponge holobiont to identify which symbiotic bacterial taxa are metabolically active in DOM uptake. Parallel incubation experiments with the sponge Plakortis angulospiculatus were amended with equimolar quantities of unlabelled (12C) and labelled (13C) DOM. Seven bacterial amplicon sequence variants (ASVs), belonging to the phyla PAUC34f, Proteobacteria, Poribacteria, Nitrospirae, and Chloroflexi, were identified as the first active consumers of DOM. Our results support the predictions that PAUC34f, Poribacteria, and Chloroflexi are capable of organic matter degradation through heterotrophic carbon metabolism, while Nitrospirae may have a potential mixotrophic metabolism. We present a new analytical application of DNA‐SIP to detect substrate incorporation into a marine holobiont with a complex associated bacterial community and provide new experimental evidence that links the identity of diverse sponge‐associated bacteria to the consumption of DOM.
Family imaginaries in the disclosure of a blood‐borne virus
Authors: Smith Anthony K J , Persson Asha , Drysdale Kerryn , Bryant Joanne , valentine kylie , Wallace Jack , Hamilton Myra , Gray Rebecca M. , Newman Christy E.
Published: June 2021

Contemporary sociological work has emphasised that family is not static, but actively shaped by ideas of who and what makes family. Disclosure of an illness, including diagnosis of stigmatised infections such as HIV, hepatitis B virus and hepatitis C virus, can change the dynamics of family relationships. This paper draws on 61 qualitative semi‐structured interviews conducted between 2017 and 2019 with people in Australia with one or more of these blood‐borne viruses (BBVs) and their family members, to understand the experiences of serodiscordant (mixed viral status) families. Through a thematic analysis, we explore the family imaginaries that participants evoked when describing their disclosure practices in relation to (self‐defined) family members, revealing how some participants disclosed in ways that enabled them to shape their family, to maintain boundaries between self and family or to protect family from distress. Participants' accounts of disclosure to family revealed imaginaries of family as a precious web of connections to be nurtured or protected, but also as sites of ambivalent belonging and complex history. We conclude that BBV disclosure practices within families reveal important ideas about families that are imagined in response to the threat of loss, change and stigma.
Descriptive aroma profiles of fresh sweet basil cultivars (Ocimum spp.): Relationship to volatile chemical composition
Authors: Patel Meera , Lee Rachel , Merchant Emily V. , Juliani H. Rodolfo , Simon Jame E. , Tepper Beverly J.
Published: June 2021

Few studies have linked sensory descriptions of the aroma profiles of fresh, sweet basil varieties with their volatile chemistry. Using a recently developed lexicon for fresh basil, a descriptive panel characterized the aroma profiles of seven basil varieties. Chemical analysis of fresh basil leaves was performed using GC‐MS headspace analysis. Analysis of variance probed for differences in the sensory attributes among varieties and principal component analysis (PCA) related the sensory profiles to volatile chemical composition. Three commercial specialty basils, “Queenette Thai” (QT), “Sweet‐Dani” (SD) lemon basil, and MC‐9 (cinnamon basil) had strong anise, lemon, and cinnamon‐like aromas, respectively. These basils were distinguished from breeding lines of traditional Italian sweet basils where SB‐22, CB‐1, and CB‐39 exhibited strong anise‐like aroma and SB‐17 had strong “general spice” aromas, characteristic of a warm spice blend. The PCA accounted for 58.7% of the variation in the data and characterized the samples in two dimensions: general spice—citrus and cinnamon‐like—anise. There was a strong correspondence between the sensory attributes and volatile chemical composition. SD associated with lemon aroma and citral content; QT, CB‐1, and CB‐39 associated with anise aroma and methyl chavicol; and MC‐9 associated with the cinnamon‐like aroma, methyl cinnamate. SB‐17 and SB‐22 associated with general spice aroma and were in close proximity to the spice‐like volatiles, 1,8 cineole, and eugenol, associated with clove aroma. We constructed precise sensory/chemical profiles for fresh basil aroma that can be used to guide breeding programs for variety improvement to meet consumer expectations or market demand.

Practical Application

Sweet basil aroma is due to a complex array of several aromatic volatile compounds. The presence, concentration, and the particular ratios in which these aroma compounds accumulate significantly impact the sensory attributes. Understanding aroma profiles for fresh basil have practical applications in product development, procurement, food preparation, ethnic cuisine, and processing. Plant genetics and breeding of aroma profiles can be used and incorporated in plant improvement programs.
Nonlethal age estimation of three threatened fish species using DNA methylation: Australian lungfish, Murray cod and Mary River cod
Authors: Mayne Benjamin , Espinoza Thomas , Roberts David , Butler Gavin L. , Brooks Steven , Korbie Darren , Jarman Simon
Published: June 2021

Age‐based demography is fundamental to management of wild fish populations. Age estimates for individuals can determine rates of change in key life‐history parameters such as length, maturity, mortality and fecundity. These age‐based characteristics are critical for population viability analysis in endangered species and for developing sustainable harvest strategies. For teleost fish, age has traditionally been determined by counting increments formed in calcified structures such as otoliths. However, the collection of otoliths is lethal and therefore undesirable for threatened species. At a molecular level, age can be predicted by measuring DNA methylation. Here, we use previously identified age‐associated sites of DNA methylation in zebrafish (Danio rerio) to develop two epigenetic clocks for three threatened freshwater fish species. One epigenetic clock was developed for the Australian lungfish (Neoceratodus forsteri) and the second for the Murray cod (Maccullochella peelii) and Mary River cod (Maccullochella mariensis). Age estimation models were calibrated using either known‐age individuals, ages derived from otoliths or bomb radiocarbon dating of scales. We demonstrate a high Pearson's correlation between the chronological and predicted age in both the Lungfish clock (cor = .98) and Maccullochella clock (cor = .92). The median absolute error rate for both epigenetic clocks was also low (Lungfish = 0.86 years; Maccullochella = 0.34 years). This study demonstrates the transferability of DNA methylation sites for age prediction between highly phylogenetically divergent fish species. Given the method is nonlethal and suited to automation, age prediction by DNA methylation has the potential to improve fisheries and other wildlife management settings.
Overestimation of alcohol consumption norms as a driver of alcohol consumption: a whole‐population network study of men across eight villages in rural, southwestern Uganda
Authors: Perkins Jessica M. , Kakuhikire Bernard , Baguma Charles , Jurinsky Jordan , Rasmussen Justin D. , Satinsky Emily N. , Namara Elizabeth , Ahereza Phionah , Kyokunda Viola , Perkins H. Wesley , Hahn Judith A. , Bangsberg David R. , Tsai Alexander C.
Published: June 2021

Background and aims

Little is known about how perceived norms about alcohol consumption may influence high alcohol consumption rates in Uganda. This study estimated the accuracy of perceived norms about men's alcohol consumption and estimated the association between perceived norms and personal alcohol consumption.

Design

Cross‐sectional, whole‐population, sociocentric social network study.

Setting

Eight rural villages in Rwampara District, southwestern Uganda in 2016–18.

Participants

A total of 719 men aged 18 years and older (representing 91% of permanent resident men).

Measurements

Self‐reported frequent (≥ 4 days per week) and heavy alcohol consumption (six or more drinks on one occasion, more than three occasions of intoxication, or spending an excessive amount on alcohol). Participants also reported whether they thought most other men in their village engaged in frequent and heavy alcohol consumption (perceived norms). Using the network study design, we calculated alcohol consumption behavior within villages and social networks. Perceived norms were compared with aggregated self‐reports. Multivariable Poisson regression models were used to estimate the association between perceived norms and individual behavior.

Findings

Throughout villages, frequent and heavy alcohol consumption ranged from 7 to 37%. However, 527 (74%) participants perceived, contrary to fact, that most other men in their villages frequently consumed alcohol, and 576 (81%) perceived that most others heavily consumed alcohol. Overestimation of alcohol consumption by others was pervasive among socio‐demographic subgroups and was present irrespective of the actual consumption behavior at the village level and within social networks. Men who misperceived these alcohol consumption behaviors as being common were more likely to engage in frequent [adjusted relative risk (aRR) = 3.98; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.69–9.34) and heavy (aRR = 4.75; 95% CI = 2.33–9.69) alcohol consumption themselves.

Conclusions

Most men in eight rural Ugandan villages incorrectly thought that frequent and heavy alcohol consumption were common among men in their villages. These misperceived norms had a strong positive association with individual drinking behavior.
Changes in illicit drug use and markets with the COVID‐19 pandemic and associated restrictions: findings from the Ecstasy and Related Drugs Reporting System, 2016–20
Authors: Price Olivia , Man Nicola , Bruno Raimondo , Dietze Paul , Salom Caroline , Lenton Simon , Grigg Jodie , Gibbs Daisy , Wilson Tanya , Degenhardt Louisa , Chan Roanna , Thomas Natalie , Peacock Amy
Published: June 2021

Aims

To describe (i) self‐reported changes in drug use and (ii) trends in price, perceived availability, and perceived purity of illicit drugs, among people who regularly use ecstasy/ 3,4‐methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) and other illicit stimulants in Australia following COVID‐19 and associated restrictions.

Design

Annual interviews with cross‐sectional sentinel samples conducted face‐to‐face in 2016–19 and via video conferencing or telephone in 2020. Data were collected via an interviewer‐administered structured questionnaire.

Setting

Australian capital cities.

Participants

Australians aged 16 years or older who used ecstasy/MDMA and other illicit stimulants on a monthly or more frequent basis and resided in a capital city, recruited via social media and word‐of‐mouth (n ~ 800 each year).

Measurements

Key outcome measures were self‐reported illicit drug market indicators (price, purity and availability) and, in 2020 only, perceived change in drug use (including alcohol and tobacco) since March 2020 and reasons for this change.

Findings

For most drugs, participants reported either no change or a reduction in their use since COVID‐19 restrictions were introduced. Ecstasy/MDMA was the drug most frequently cited as reduced in use (n = 552, 70% of those reporting recent use), mainly due to reduced opportunities for socialization. While market indicators were largely stable across most drugs, the odds of perceiving MDMA capsules as ‘high’ in purity decreased compared with 2016–19 [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 0.72, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.53–0.99], as did perceiving them as ‘easy’ to obtain (aOR = 0.42, CI = 0.26–0.67). The odds of perceiving cocaine and methamphetamine crystal as ‘easy’ to obtain also decreased (aOR = 0.67, CI = 0.46–0.96 and aOR = 0.12, CI = 0.04–0.41, respectively).

Conclusions

After COVID‐19‐related restrictions were introduced in Australia, use of ecstasy/MDMA, related stimulants and other licit and illicit drugs mainly appeared to remain stable or decrease, primarily due to impediments to socialization.
Dismal outcome of relapsed or primary refractory adult T‐cell lymphoblastic lymphoma: A retrospective study from China
Authors: Chen Haizhu , Qin Yan , Yang Jianliang , Liu Peng , He Xiaohui , Zhou Shengyu , Zhang Changgong , Yang Sheng , Gui Lin , Sun Yan , Shi Yuankai
Published: June 2021

Aim

Little is known about the outcome and prognostic factors of relapsed or refractory T‐cell lymphoblastic lymphoma (T‐LBL), especially in adult patients. The aim of this study was to analyze the characteristics, outcome and prognostic factors for this patient population.

Methods

Between January 2006 and December 2017, we retrospectively analyzed 84 adult patients with T‐LBL, and 44 relapsed or primary refractory patients were included in this analysis. Clinical features, treatment and follow‐up information were collected.

Results

For all 44 patients, the median time to disease progression or relapse was 9.5 months after diagnosis. At a median follow‐up of 19.6 months, 40 (90.9%) patients died. The 3‐ and 5‐year overall survival (OS) rates after disease progression or relapse were 7.8% and 5.2%, respectively. Among 30 patients who had detailed information of second‐line treatment, only eight achieved a second complete remission (CR). Two of these eight patients subsequently underwent autologous or allogeneic stem cell transplantation (SCT), of whom one died from disease progression after autologous SCT, and one was free of event at 84 months after allogeneic SCT. Three of the rest six patients in second CR were still alive after chemotherapy alone. All the remaining patients who failed to gain second CR eventually died. In univariate analysis, only the achievement of second CR was positively predictive of OS (hazard ratio (HR) = 0.307; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.104–0.905; P = 0.032).

Conclusion

The outcome of adult patients with relapsed or refractory T‐LBL is extremely dismal. Patients with relapsed or refractory T‐LBL should be encouraged to participate in clinical trials where novel therapeutic approaches are available.
The Infinite Elasticity of Air: New York City’s Financialization of Transferable Development Rights
Authors: Sclar Elliott
Published: June 2021

Zoning operates within institutional policy norms. Current neoliberal norms encourage land use policy aimed at attaining highest achievable real estate values. As a result, a public policy tool originally intended to protect urban society from the negative impacts of excessive intense real estate development now facilitates such development. This transformation is most clearly seen in the evolution of transferable development rights (TDRs) from a device intended to facilitate adjustment of unique site‐specific regulatory matters into one widely used to privately appropriate socially created site values. TDRs detach zoned development rights from site‐specific locations. So, their use over ever‐widening districts implies that socially created area‐wide value can be privately appropriated by property owners at specific sites, property owners who typically played little or no role in the creation of such value. In the process, these rights become financialized. This financialization encourages developers to seek further expansion in the size of the district within which these rights are fungible. In a global era of extremely low interest rates, real estate assets, which hold the promise of capital safety and above‐average returns, have become exceptionally attractive portfolio holdings. This investment environment encourages urban planners and real estate developers to further rationalize and hence financialize the ever‐wider use of these rights in some of the densest urban environments in the world. The historic experience of evolving zoning policy in New York City’s central business district, Manhattan below West 59th Street, serves as an illustration of the way TDRs as a land use regulatory device have evolved to facilitate this financialization.
Waqf and the Urban Housing Question: Islamic Land Donations for Housing in Bangkok
Authors: Kahraman Sefer
Published: June 2021

The city of Bangkok, Thailand faces the sorts of housing problems that are experienced throughout the Global South, where urban housing is unaffordable to large numbers of residents or is of extremely poor quality. Standard economic analysis suggests that privatization of land will enable the free market to solve the housing problem. Anne Haila, a leading urban economist, turned this mainstream logic on its head, claiming that land privatization worsens housing problems. She also argued that systems based on sharing are needed. Bangkok sought to solve its housing problem with conventional methods of public housing and social housing, but that policy was unsuccessful. This article recommends the application of core Islamic social and moral values: social responsibility and generosity. The use of non‐private land, such as religious waqf land, offers an effective alternative housing system. Waqf land practices demonstrate the philosophy of Islamic philanthropy, as I show in a case study of how waqf land is used in Bangkok. The evidence demonstrates that a sharing alternative can help alleviate urban problems. This study is just one example of a practice within the Islamic collective philanthropic spirit.
Land and Housing in Singapore: Three Conversations with Anne Haila
Authors: Ho K. C.
Published: June 2021

Anne Haila is credited as one of the pioneers in developing a new theory of urban rent, distinct from neo‐Marxist treatments of rent in the 1970s. In this reformulation, she looks into the agents and institutions of land, with land as a financial asset, where its management and use become pivotal to our understanding of the contemporary city. One of the central elements in this reformulation is the attention paid to the state and its management of land. The three conversations developed in this essay elaborate on Haila’s focus on the state and its land policies. By focusing on the events that propel the state to act in housing provision, to intensify its management of land for housing and economic development, and to evade the provision of housing for some groups in society, I show how state interests with regard to land and housing are conditioned and evolve over time.
Children with neonatal Hypoxic Ischaemic Encephalopathy (HIE) treated with therapeutic hypothermia are not as school ready as their peers
Authors: Edmonds Caroline J , Cianfaglione Rina , Cornforth Christine , Vollmer Brigitte
Published: June 2021

Aim

We aimed to determine whether children with neonatal Hypoxic Ischaemic Encephalopathy (HIE) treated with therapeutic hypothermia (TH) differ from their peers on measures of fine motor skills, executive function, language and general cognitive abilities, factors that are important for school readiness.

Methods

We compared school readiness in 31children with HIE treated with TH (without Cerebral Palsy; mean age 5 years 4 months) with 20 typically developing children without HIE (mean age 5 years 6 months).

Results

Children with HIE scored significantly lower than typically developing children on fine motor skills, executive functions, memory and language.

Conclusion

While general cognitive abilities and attainment were in the normal range, our findings suggest those scores mask specific underlying difficulties identified by more focussed assessments. Children with HIE treated with TH may not be as ‘school ready’ as their typically developing classmates and may benefit from long‐term follow‐up until starting school.
Kostmann disease and other forms of severe congenital neutropenia
Authors: Fadeel Bengt , Garwicz Daniel , Carlsson Göran , Sandstedt Bengt , Nordenskjöld Magnus
Published: June 2021

Congenital neutropenia with autosomal recessive inheritance was first described by the Swedish paediatrician Rolf Kostmann who coined the term ‘infantile genetic agranulocytosis’. The condition is now commonly referred to as Kostmann disease. These patients display a maturation arrest of the myelopoiesis in the bone marrow and reduced neutrophil numbers and suffer from recurrent, often life‐threatening infections. The molecular mechanism underlying congenital neutropenia has been intensively investigated, and mutations in genes that impinge on programmed cell death have been identified. The present review provides an overview of these studies.
Vaccine‐induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT) – a novel clinico‐pathological entity with heterogeneous clinical presentations
Authors: Lavin Michelle , Elder Patrick T. , O’Keeffe Denis , Enright Helen , Ryan Eileen , Kelly Anna , El Hassadi Ezzat , McNicholl Feargal P. , Benson Gary , Le Giao N. , Byrne Mary , Ryan Kevin , O’Connell Niamh M. , O’Donnell James S.
Published: June 2021

Vaccine‐induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT) is a novel entity that emerged in March 2021 following reports of unusual thrombosis after ChAdOx1 nCoV‐19, (AstraZeneca) vaccination. Following the recognition of this syndrome, multiple consensus guidelines have been released to risk stratify patients presenting with possible symptoms after ChAdOx1 nCoV‐19 vaccination. All guidelines rapidly identify VITT in patients with the complete triad of thrombocytopenia, thrombosis and elevated D‐dimers after ChAdOx1 nCoV‐19 vaccination. However, with earlier recognition of the associated symptoms, the clinical manifestations are likely to be more heterogeneous and represent an evolving spectrum of disease. In this setting, current guidelines may lack the sensitivity to detect early cases of VITT and risk missed or delayed diagnoses. The broad clinical phenotype and challenges associated with diagnosis of VITT are highlighted in our present case series of four patients with confirmed VITT. Dependent on the guidance used, each patient could have been classified as a low probability of VITT at presentation. The present study highlights the issues associated with the recognition of VITT, the limitations of current guidance and the need for heightened clinical vigilance as our understanding of the pathophysiology of this novel condition evolves.
Magnetic resonance imaging‐guided transurethral ultrasound ablation for benign prostatic hyperplasia: 12‐month clinical outcomes of a phase I study
Authors: Viitala Antti , Anttinen Mikael , Wright Cameron , Virtanen Ilari , Mäkelä Pietari , Hovinen Topi , Sainio Teija , Saunavaara Jani , Taimen Pekka , Blanco Sequeiros Roberto , Boström Peter J.
Published: June 2021

Objectives

To investigate the safety and feasibility of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)‐guided transurethral ultrasound ablation (TULSA) for the treatment of benign prostatic obstruction (BPO).

Patients and methods

An investigator‐initiated, prospective, registered (NCT03350529), phase I study enrolled men with lower urinary tract symptoms due to benign prostatic hyperplasia in need of surgical intervention. Patients were followed for 12 months after TULSA. Uroflowmetry, prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) level, and a comprehensive set of functional questionnaires including the Expanded Prostate cancer Index Composite‐26, International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and five‐item version of the International Index of Erectile Function were obtained at baseline and every 3 months afterwards. MRI was obtained at baseline, and at 3 and 12 months after TULSA. Medication use before and after TULSA were recorded. Adverse events (AEs) were reported using the Clavien–Dindo classification.

Results

A total of 10 men underwent TULSA with no severe AEs encountered. The baseline median (interquartile range [IQR]) age and prostate volume were 68 (63–72) years and 53 (45–66) mL, respectively. At baseline, six patients were moderately symptomatic and four patients severely symptomatic. Nine patients at baseline were on BPO medication. The median (IQR) improvement in the IPSS was 82%, from 17.5 (15.3–23.0) at baseline to 4.0 (2.3–6.3) at 12 months. Similarly, the median maximum urinary flow rate improved by 101%, from a median (IQR) of 12.4 (8.8–17.6) mL/s at baseline to 21.8 (17.6–26.5) mL/s at 12 months. Improvements were already seen at 3 months. The median prostate volume and PSA reduction at 12 months were 33% and 48%, respectively. There were no changes in continence, sexual, erectile or bowel functions. At 12 months, five out of six men with normal ejaculatory function before TULSA reported normal antegrade ejaculations. All patients taking BPO medication before TULSA discontinued medication after TULSA.

Conclusion

TULSA appears to be a safe and effective treatment for BPO, with promising 12‐month follow‐up outcomes. Further studies with larger cohorts are needed to confirm the observed results.
Chronic stress and Alzheimer's disease: the interplay between the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis, genetics and microglia
Authors: Milligan Armstrong Ayeisha , Porter Tenielle , Quek Hazel , White Anthony , Haynes John , Jackaman Connie , Villemagne Victor , Munyard Kylie , Laws Simon M. , Verdile Giuseppe , Groth David
Published: June 2021

Chronic psychosocial stress is increasingly being recognised as a risk factor for sporadic Alzheimer's disease (AD). The hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis (HPA axis) is the major stress response pathway in the body and tightly regulates the production of cortisol, a glucocorticoid hormone. Dysregulation of the HPA axis and increased levels of cortisol are commonly found in AD patients and make a major contribution to the disease process. The underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. In addition, within the general population there are interindividual differences in sensitivities to glucocorticoid and stress responses, which are thought to be due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. These differences could ultimately impact an individuals’ risk of AD. The purpose of this review is first to summarise the literature describing environmental and genetic factors that can impact an individual's HPA axis reactivity and function and ultimately AD risk. Secondly, we propose a mechanism by which genetic factors that influence HPA axis reactivity may also impact inflammation, a key driver of neurodegeneration. We hypothesize that these factors can mediate glucocorticoid priming of the immune cells of the brain, microglia, to become pro‐inflammatory and promote a neurotoxic environment resulting in neurodegeneration. Understanding the underlying molecular mechanisms and identifying these genetic factors has implications for evaluating stress‐related risk/progression to neurodegeneration, informing the success of interventions based on stress management and potential risks associated with the common use of glucocorticoids.
Association of vitamin D deficiency with COVID‐19 infection severity: Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Wang Zhen , Joshi Avni , Leopold Kaitlin , Jackson Sarah , Christensen Stephanie , Nayfeh Tarek , Mohammed Khaled , Creo Ana , Tebben Peter , Kumar Seema
Published: June 2021

Background

We sought to evaluate the association between vitamin D deficiency and the severity of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) infection.

Methods

Multiple databases from 1 January 2019 to 3 December 2020 were searched for observational studies evaluating the association between vitamin D deficiency and severity of COVID‐19 infection. Independent reviewers selected studies and extracted data for the review. The main outcomes of interest were mortality, hospital admission, length of hospital stay and intensive care unit admission.

Results

Seventeen observational studies with 2756 patients were included in the analyses. Vitamin D deficiency was associated with significantly higher mortality (odds ratio [OR]: 2.47, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.50–4.05; 12 studies; hazard ratio [HR]: 4.11, 95% CI: 2.40–7.04; 3 studies), higher rates of hospital admissions (OR: 2.18, 95% CI: 1.48–3.21; 3 studies) and longer hospital stays (0.52 days; 95% CI: 0.25–0.80; 2 studies) as compared to nonvitamin D deficient status. Subgroup analyses based on different cut‐offs for defining vitamin D deficiency, study geographic locations and latitude also showed similar trends.

Conclusions

Vitamin D deficiency is associated with greater severity of COVID‐19 infection. Further studies are warranted to determine if vitamin D supplementation can decrease the severity of COVID‐19.
Clinical outcomes and biological and mechanical complications of immediate fixed prostheses supported by zygomatic implants: A retrospective analysis from a prospective clinical study with up to 11 years of follow‐up
Authors: Agliardi Enrico Luigi , Panigatti Stefano , Romeo Davide , Sacchi Lavinia , Gherlone Enrico
Published: June 2021

Background

Zygomatic implants alone or in combination with conventional implants have been used for severe atrophic maxillary arches. Long‐term outcomes of extramaxillary technique need validations.

Purpose

To retrospectively assess the clinical outcomes and the prevalence of surgical, biological, and prosthetic complications of implant‐fixed complete dental prostheses (IFCDPs) supported by zygomatic implants up to 11 years of follow‐up.

Materials and methods

Dental records of 34 subjects treated between October 2008 and June 2019 were reviewed. Patients received an immediate fixed full‐arch prosthesis supported solely by zygomatic implants or by a combination of zygomatic and conventional implants.

Results

A total of 90 zygomatic implants and 53 standard implants were placed. Up to 11 years of follow‐up, two conventional implants were lost, leading to 96.2% success rate for conventional implants and 100% for zygomatic implants. Marginal bone loss for conventional implants averaged 0.85 ± 0.17 mm after the first year and 1.36 ± 0.12 mm after 10 years, resulting in full implant success. No prosthesis was lost. The main surgical complication was the perforations of the Schneiderian membrane, occurring in five patients and in seven sinus cavities. Considering the biological complications, mucositis for standard and zygomatic implants ranged between 21%–35% and 26%–40%, respectively. No peri‐implantitis were reported. Soft tissue hypertrophy ranged between 1.8% and 30% for conventional implants and 1.1%–35% for zygomatic implants. Inflammation under the prosthesis ranged between 33% and 50%. For the mechanical complications, abutment loosening was recorded in 5.8% of cases (two patients), tooth debonding and fracture of the prosthesis happened in five subjects (14.7%), and loosening of the prosthetic screws was reported in one patient (2.9%).

Conclusions

Immediate rehabilitation of the severely atrophic maxilla with zygomatic implants alone or in combination with standard implants could be considered a viable treatment modality.
Frequency of hand eczema in the elderly: Cross‐sectional findings from the German AugUR study
Authors: Drewitz Karl Philipp , Stark Klaus J. , Zimmermann Martina E. , Heid Iris M. , Apfelbacher Christian J.
Published: June 2021

Background

Hand eczema (HE) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease caused by a genetic predisposition and environmental exposures. There is a lack of population‐based studies on skin diseases in the elderly.

Objectives

Our aim was to estimate the frequency of HE in the elderly to determine its burden of disease in this particular population.

Methods

We analyzed data from the research platform AugUR, a study on chronic diseases in the elderly (n = 1133, ages 70‐95 years, mean age 77.6, 45.1% women). Raw frequencies were estimated using self‐reports on physician‐diagnosed HE from a standardized personal interview. Frequencies were standardized to the Bavarian population weighted by gender and 5‐year age‐groups.

Results

In our sample 2.7% (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.6‐4.3) of the paticipants reported to ever have been diagnosed with HE. Among those 57% were male. After standardization, the frequency was estimated at 2.8% (95% CI 1.9‐3.9). There were no differences between male and female participants.

Conclusions

Compared to other studies on lifetime frequency of HE, our estimates seem to be remarkably lower. More in‐depth studies with validated diagnoses are warranted to precisely estimate the burden of HE in the elderly.