bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shared and distinct neural signatures of feature and spatial attention
Authors: Yang Anmin , Tian Jinhua , Wang Wenbo , Liu Jia , Zhou Liqin , Zhou Ke
Published: August 2023

The debate on whether feature attention (FA) and spatial attention (SA) share a common neural mechanism remains unresolved. Previous neuroimaging studies have identified fronto-parietaltemporal attention-related regions that exhibited consistent activation during various visual attention tasks. However, these studies have been limited by small sample sizes and methodological constraints inherent in univariate analysis. Here, we utilized a between-subject whole-brain machine learning approach with a large sample size (N=235) to investigate the neural signatures of FA (FAS) and SA (SAS). Both FAS and SAS showed cross-task predictive capabilities, though inter-task prediction was weaker than intra-task prediction, suggesting both shared and distinct mechanisms. Specifically, the frontoparietal network exhibited the highest predictive performance for FA, while the visual network excelled in predicting SA, highlighting their respective prominence in the two attention processes. Moreover, both signatures demonstrated distributed representations across large-scale brain networks, as each cluster within the signatures was sufficient for predicting FA and SA, but none of them were deemed necessary for either FA or SA. Our study challenges traditional network-centric models of attention, emphasizing distributed brain functioning in attention, and provides comprehensive evidence for shared and distinct neural mechanisms underlying FA and SA.
Structure and design of Langya virus glycoprotein antigens
Authors: Wang Zhaoqian , McCallum Matthew , Yan Lianying , Sharkey William , Park Young-Jun , Dang Ha V. , Amaya Moushimi , Person Ashley , Broder Christopher C. , Veesler David
Published: August 2023

Langya virus (LayV) is a recently discovered henipavirus (HNV), isolated from febrile patients in China. HNV entry into host cells is mediated by the attachment (G) and fusion (F) glycoproteins which are the main targets of neutralizing antibodies. We show here that the LayV F and G glycoproteins promote membrane fusion with human, mouse and hamster target cells using a different, yet unknown, receptor than NiV and HeV and that NiV-and HeV-elicited monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies do not cross-react with LayV F and G. We determined cryo-electron microscopy structures of LayV F, in the prefusion and postfusion states, and of LayV G, revealing previously unknown conformational landscapes and their distinct antigenicity relative to NiV and HeV. We computationally designed stabilized LayV G constructs and demonstrate the generalizability of an HNV F prefusion-stabilization strategy. Our data will support the development of vaccines and therapeutics against LayV and closely related HNVs.
Synthesis and characterization of DOE-based stir-cast hybrid aluminum composite reinforced with graphene nanoplatelets and cerium oxide
Authors: Kumar Dinesh , Angra Surjit , Singh Satnam
Published: August 2023

Purpose

This research outlines the development and characterization of advanced composite materials and their potential applications in the aerospace industry for interior applications. Advanced composites, such as carbon-fiber-reinforced polymers and ceramic matrix composites, offer significant advantages over traditional metallic materials in terms of weight reduction, stiffness and strength. These materials have been used in various aerospace applications, including aircraft, engines and thermal protection systems.

Design/methodology/approach

The development of design of experiment–based hybrid aluminum composites using the stir-casting technique has further enhanced the performance and cost-effectiveness of these materials. The design of the experiment was followed to fabricate hybrid composites with nano cerium oxide (nCeO2) and graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) as reinforcements in the Al-6061 matrix.

Findings

The Al6061 + 3% nCeO2 + 3% GNPs exhibited a high hardness of 119.6 VHN. The ultimate tensile strength and yield strength are 113.666 MPa and 73.08 MPa, respectively. A uniform distribution of reinforcement particulates was achieved with 3 Wt.% of each reinforcement in the matrix material, which is analyzed using scanning electron microscopy. Fractography revealed that brittle and ductile fractures caused the failure of the fractured specimens in the tensile test.

Practical implications

The manufactured aluminum composite can be applied in a range of exterior and interior structural parts like wings, wing boxes, motors, gears, engines, antennas, floor beams, etc. The fan case material of the GEnx engine (currently using carbon-fiber reinforcement plastic) for the Boeing 7E7 can be another replacement with manufactured hybrid aluminum composite, which predicts weight savings per engine of close to 120 kg.

Originality/value

The development of hybrid reinforcements, where two or more types of reinforcements are used in combination, is also a novel approach to improving the properties of these composites. Advanced composite materials are known for their high strength-to-weight ratio. If the newly developed composite material demonstrates superior properties, it can potentially be used to replace traditional materials in aircraft manufacturing. By reducing the weight of aircraft structures, fuel efficiency can be improved, leading to reduced operating costs and environmental impact. This allows for a more customized solution for specific application requirements and can lead to further advancements in materials science and technology.
Postgraduate students’ internet use and prevalence of internet addiction: what roles can librarians play post COVID-19?
Authors: Salubi Oghenere Gabriel , Muchaonyerwa Ndakasharwa
Published: August 2023

Purpose

This study empirically analyse the lived and individual experiences of internet use time among postgraduate students in a period where the line between the virtual and real is blurred. The infusion of the internet in higher education has not only facilitated the production of new knowledge but has also led to reports of internet addiction among many users during the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting lockdowns. This study aims to evaluate the level of internet addiction among postgraduate students and the supportive information services role that librarians could provide.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, 279 postgraduate students completed a quantitative survey targeted at all the postgraduate students at a university campus in South Africa. Data was collected using an adopted internet addiction test questionnaire. The data was descriptively and inferentially analysed.

Findings

As many as 61 (22.7%) are always online, with most of the respondents, 112 (41.6%) spend 10 h or more on the internet daily. Laptop computers at 44.7% emerged as the primary electronic device used by postgraduate students for accessing the internet, surpassing the prevalence of mobile phone usage. On internet addiction level, internet use time had a statistically significant relation with problematic internet use levels in respondents. These results suggest that the increased uncontrolled internet use could negatively interfere with productive academic work of postgraduate students. However, based on the inferential statistical results, it can be concluded that academic use of the internet does not contribute to increased levels of internet addiction. The study recommends that librarians should provide literacy education and resources on how to use the internet safely and responsibly, including tips on setting boundaries, managing time online and productively using online information resources.

Originality/value

The study assesses problematic internet use among postgraduate students and provides suggestions on supportive information services that librarians could provide in an era where many library information services provision and higher education are hinged on the internet.
Cotton Web Limited: a journey from disintegrated complaint handling to an efficient and robust e-complaint management system
Authors: Shuja Aleena , Awan Malik Imtiaz , Saleem Imran
Published: August 2023

Learning outcomes

The purpose of this study is to make students understand the logic behind and implications of the “Socio-Technical Imbrication Framework” that can help them understand the importance of aligning workforce motivation and capabilities with the modern technology deployed in the organization. Moreover, students will understand the essentiality and criticality of customer satisfaction for the organization.

Case overview/synopsis

The technical services operations team at Cotton Web Limited formerly relied on JS Node, e-coordination system, to address customer complaints. There were many bugs in that system as it did not carry along the complaint tracking protocol, was slow in response, fundamentally structured upon manual complaint record keeping that resulted in piling up un-resolved complaints for a longer period of time. The team under the leadership of Mr. Hasan Ali, a competent expert working as GM Research and Data Analytics, undertook detailed analysis of recurring glitches in this system and replaced it with a novel Web-based automated complaint management system at Cotton Web Limited. This entire diagnosis and intervention process took almost three months till completion. The case is written for use in courses in the curriculum of BBA, BBIS, BSIT and BSCS programs at undergraduate level. It is most suitable for the courses in leadership, change management, business process reengineering, soft engineering, team building and business communication.

Complexity academic level

The case is suitable for teaching at Undergraduate level to the students of BBIS, BBA, BSCS and BSIT students in the last year of their degree programs. Teaching faculty can use case-based methodology for student learning by putting them into a real-life situation faced by an organization and letting them think critically and identify following points for further discussion and clarity: individual or in groups; problem identification through discussion; the stakeholders involved in the company’s situation through presentation or one-pager presentation; case analysis with reaching best solution to prevailing issue at hand through group discussion; reaching a decision or solution with reasonable logic and justification through group discussions; and create further dilemma on the basis of questions unanswered within this case story.

Supplementary material

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CSS 7: Management Science.
Evaluation of the comprehensive thematic teaching effectiveness and technique/technology in culinary vocational education
Authors: Ma Chia-Yen , Wang Kuo-Ching , Liu De-Yen , Lai Ting-Ching
Published: August 2023

Purpose

The research aims to discuss technical and vocational students' long-term and complete evaluation of learning effectiveness under school-wide thematic teaching design.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopted a mixed qualitative and quantitative approach to measure the learning effectiveness of thematic teaching in technical vocational schools using the Kirkpatrick model. Qualitative research conducted in-depth interviews with 32 interviewees, including students, parents, teachers, graduate alumni and the supervisors of off-campus internship units. Quantitative research conducted a questionnaire survey on vocational students. A total of 221 valid questionnaires were collected. In addition, this research conducts another quantitative survey on cooperative enterprises to compare the actual effect of the implementation of the school-wide thematic teaching students with the others, and a total of 35 valid questionnaires were collected.

Findings

The results of the research found that the effectiveness of thematic teaching method can achieve the expected goals of each level of Kirkpatrick model. The students taking thematic teaching are significantly better and fitting in the industry expects. Therefore, this research suggests the comprehensive introduction of school-wide thematic teaching to other school operators.

Originality/value

This research is the first study used the Kirkpatrick model to evaluate the effectiveness of school-wide thematic teaching design in hospitality education and providing a practical case for schools. This research combined qualitative and quantitative research methods to investigate the effectiveness of the teaching method through multiple perspectives. Through the feedback from supervisors of the hospitality industry, the school-wide thematic teaching design provides a good foundation for technical and vocational graduates.
Effect of social media usage on major depressive disorder among generation Z: a study in Indian context
Authors: Bhat Ishfaq Hussain , Gupta Shilpi , Bhat Ghulam Mohammad
Published: August 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the specific social media behaviours (SMB) that lead to major depressive disorder (MDD). The study also looks at the moderation effect of pandemic on social media usage among users.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a descriptive approach, the required data was collected from a sample of 629 social media users chosen through random sampling technique. An adopted structured online questionnaire was used to collect the data. The data collected was analysed by using univariate and multinomial regression techniques.

Findings

The findings of the study revealed that social media intensity, social media addiction (SMA), social media participation, social interaction and SMB had a positive impact on MDD, whereas social comparison had a negative impact. The pandemic situation has also been found to moderate the effect of social media usage on MDD.

Social implications

This study will be supportive in disclosing behaviours and activities of students that impact their mental health adversely. This will also be helpful in dealing with specific stressors in the programs designed to cope with the depression. By adopting effective strategies to manage social media usage, the study would help to reduce the level of depressive symptoms among college students, significantly promoting healthy environments for students and, thus, contribute to social change.

Originality/value

Since the social media has both favourable and detrimental effects, the key for the users is to develop an awareness about the wise usage and to determine the alterations in the usage patterns that can help to reduce the behaviours associated with negative emotions and psychological distress.
Environmentalism in photovoltaics substitution, nationalism in photovoltaics rivalry and youth’s choice of solar power banks in Lanzhou
Authors: Zha Yiru , Jin Jiawei
Published: August 2023

Purpose

This study aims to investigate how environmentalism in photovoltaic (PV) substitution and nationalism in PV rivalry with the USA are associated with the trade-offs made by young consumers in Lanzhou when selecting Chinese brand portable solar power banks.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, the choice-based conjoint survey was conducted to investigate mobile power bank consumers aged 18–28 in Lanzhou urban districts. A total of 2,004 valid questionnaires were collected and 1,813 sample was used in analyses. Logit and ordinary least squares regression models were run for empirical analyses.

Findings

The research results show that consumers tend to sacrifice certain levels of affordability for moderate technological capability, a reputable brand, better portability and advanced charging functions or sacrifice certain levels of technological capabilities for a moderate price. Consumers with stronger environmentalism in PV substitution tend to prioritize median price levels, larger battery capacity and better portability, while being less sensitive to brand and showing less preference for advanced charging functions. Consumers with stronger nationalism in PV rivalry tend to prioritize reasonably higher prices, bigger brands, enhanced portability, more solar panels and advanced charging functions.

Practical implications

This research sheds light on consumer trade-offs between price, brand, portability, technological capability and charging function. It also explores how environmentalism and nationalism sentiments are associated with consumer decision-making. These insights carry valuable policy implications for fostering product innovation, supporting brand-building initiatives for small and medium-size enterprises, promoting market competition and preventing the weaponization of consumer nationalism.

Originality/value

As an emerging solar power product, the portable solar power bank holds significant potential for widespread adoption as a means to drive energy transition. Within the current context, two notable sentiments have surfaced: environmentalism, which pertains to the adoption of PV technology as a substitute for conventional energy sources and nationalism, which manifests in the PV rivalry between China and the USA. This research aims to investigate consumer preference related to this emerging product, specifically focusing on its relationship with these two sentiments.
Toyota Kata for continuous improvement; an action research project in the construction industry
Authors: Lodgaard Eirin , Iakymenko Natalia , Mogos Maria Flavia
Published: August 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate how Toyota Kata can be effectively applied in the engineer-to-order (ETO) manufacturing within the construction industry. The objective is to identify the critical success factors (CSFs) for the Toyota Kata implementation in this environment and to develop a continuous improvement (CI) method – based on Toyota Kata and adapted to the ETO manufacturing within the construction industry.

Design/methodology/approach

An action research (AR) approach was applied, which includes a participatory form of inquiry and learning from both intended and unintended outcomes, while simultaneously building up scientific knowledge about successful implementation of Toyota Kata.

Findings

All the CSFs in the AR project are addressed by the earlier literature, thus confirming the existing body of knowledge. Moreover, the existing knowledge was arguably extended through the modified Toyota Kata as an approach for CI. New elements regarding how to run the small experiments by extending the core team with personnel who work with the problem on a daily basis.

Originality/value

This research addresses a gap identified in the literature regarding how Toyota Kata can be adapted to the ETO manufacturing within the construction industry. It also presents an overview of CSFs for the Toyota Kata implementation in this environment.
Properties of mortar containing Phragmites Australis Ash
Authors: Khatib Jamal , ElKhatib Lelian , Assaad Joseph , El Kordi Adel
Published: August 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the use of phragmites australis ash (PAA) in cementitious systems to achieve sustainable construction.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, the properties of mortar containing PAA as partial cement replacement are determined. The PAA is produced through slow burning in a closed system to minimize the CO2 emission. A total of four mortar mixes are prepared with PAA replacement levels ranging from 0% to 30% by weight. The water to binder and the proportions of binder to sand are 0.55 and 1:3 by weight, respectively. The properties tested are density, compressive strength, flexural strength, ultrasonic pulse velocity, water absorption by total immersion and capillary rise. Testing is conducted at 1, 7, 28 and 90 days.

Findings

While there is a decrease in strength as the amount of PAA increases, there is strong indication of pozzolanic reaction in the presence of PAA. This is in agreement with the results reported by Salvo et al. (2015), where they found noticeable pozzolanic activities in the presence of straw ash, which is rich in SiO2 and relatively high K2O content. At 90 days of curing, there is a decrease of 5% in compressive strength at 10% PAA replacement. However, at 20% and 30% replacement, the reduction in compressive strength is 23% and 32%, respectively. The trend in flexural strength and ultrasonic pulse velocity is similar to that in compressive strength. The water absorption by total immersion and capillary rise tends to increase with increasing amounts of PAA in the mix. There seems to be a linear relationship between water absorption and compressive strength at each curing age.

Research limitations/implications

The Phragmites australis plant used in this investigation is obtained from one location and this present a limitation as the type of soil may change the properties. Also one method of slow burning is used. Different burning methods may alter the composition of the PAA.

Practical implications

This outcome of this research will contribute towards sustainable development as it will make use of the waste generated, reduce the amount of energy-intensive cement used in construction and help generate local employment in the area where the Phragmites australis plant grows.

Originality/value

To the best knowledge of the authors, the ash from the Phragmites australis plant has not been used in cementitious system and this research can be considered original as it examines the properties of mortar containing PAA. Also, the process of burning in a closed system using this material.
Policy-driven responsibility for innovations and organisational learning: an ethnographic study in additive manufacturing product innovations
Authors: Sischarenco Elena , Luomaranta Toni
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Policy-oriented responsibility initiatives are institutional attempts to make innovations more responsible. One such initiative is offered by the European Commission’s responsible research and innovation (RRI) keys (public engagement, gender equality, science education, open access and ethics). This study is conducted in the context of an EU Horizon 2020 project and focuses on the introduction of RRI keys to innovation projects of the additive manufacturing (AM) industry. This study aims to understand how these RRI keys are perceived and adopted by industry project partners.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use an ethnographic study based on “participant observation”, supported by interviews and workshops with AM industry experts. In particular, the analysis covers two specific innovation use cases – one in the medical field, and second in the automotive field, in the context of the EU project. The analysis, based on ethnographic data, is inductive and interpretative.

Findings

The authors take a critical approach towards the implementation of RRI policy keys as measurable indicators, and argue that they are not easy tools to implement. The authors portray how RRI keys were understood and welcomed by industrial organisations, and how their implementation raised controversies. The authors also found that RRI keys are difficult to understand. They are not easy to measure and report, and this contrasts with earlier proposals of how RRI keys should be governed or implemented. The governance, meaning the dialogue between stakeholders both internal and external to the organisation, was time-consuming and required constant organisational learning.

Originality/value

Due to the insightful ethnographic methodology, the authors could well underline the faults and difficulties of the application of policy-oriented responsibility in innovation. The findings illustrate the difficulty of implementing RRI in an industry that mainly operates business-to-business. This can help future policymakers to find more successful ways of pushing industry and innovators to be more responsible. It can also suggest better ways of reaching higher organisational learning for the purpose of more responsible innovations.
Honey, let's read a story together; mothers' lived experiences of joint story‐reading with their child: Insights from an interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA)
Authors: Hosseini Seyed Omid , Najarpourian Samaneh , Samavi Abdolvahab , Rastegar Yaser
Published: August 2023

Mother–child dyads were invited via Instagram to read 10 children's short stories together over the course of 10 weeks. Stories were read to/with the child on a self‐paced, once‐weekly basis in the mother's presence, on WhatsApp and Skype. Children were elementary school age, that is, 7–11 years. Analysis of interview transcriptions with mothers indicated three major themes: empathy, improved filial relations and emotion regulation of parent. Mothers emerged more empathic and aware of their emotions 3–4 weeks into the intervention, with a better understanding of and grip on themselves. They also experienced better regulation of emotion and a closer filial connection with their child over this period. Limitations of the study and guidelines for future research are also discussed.
The social life of natural experiments in epidemiology and public health
Authors: Herrick Clare , Bell Kirsten
Published: August 2023

Over the twentieth century, the concept of the natural experiment has become increasingly prominent across a variety of disciplines, albeit most consequentially in epidemiology and public health. Drawing on an analysis of the scientific and medical literature, we explore the social life of the natural experiment, tracing its changing use, meaning and uptake to better understand the work done by the concept. We demonstrate how the natural experiment became central to the identity of post‐war epidemiology as the discipline professionalised, turned its attention to the prevention of chronic disease and took centre stage in the field of public health. We then turn to its growing significance amid the rise of evidence‐based medicine, and the new meanings natural experiments came to take on in the context of concerns about policy and evidence. Finally, we turn to the newest iteration of the natural experiment in the COVID‐19 era, which saw an explosion of studies drawing on the term, albeit in ways that reveal more about the underlying politics of health than the method itself. Throughout, we illustrate that the concept of the natural experiment has always been fundamentally social and political and tied to disciplinary claims‐making about evidence and what should count as such.
Ethnographic closeness: methodological reflections on the interplay of engagement and detachment in immersive ethnographic research
Authors: Pilbeam Caitlin , Greenhalgh Trisha , Potter Caroline M.
Published: August 2023

With the reflexive turn in the social sciences, emotional engagement is an inevitable and crucial part of data‐gathering and analysis. However, there is a glaring gap in methodological discussions to this end. Presenting ethnographic research into end of life with people living at home in England with heart failure, we argue for a methodological blend of engagement and detachment that shifts throughout the research process, and that sensory experience is a core part of engagement. We offer ethnographic examples which present and explore some alternatives to emotional engagement and objective detachment: (1) moving with participants to facilitate engagement during fieldwork through shared sensory experience; (2) detachment as a different way of relating when exiting the field and drawing participant relationships to a close; and (3) ethnographic closeness as the interplay of engagement and detachment in participant debriefing and data analysis. Based on well‐established anthropological concepts, and taking both engagement and detachment as embodied and relational, we develop a notion of ethnographic closeness in which detachment is a necessary part. Our detailed methodological discussion thus offers theoretically grounded possibilities and alternatives for approaching and managing the core tension of ‘how close is too close?’ in ethnographic practice. Further contributions supporting researchers in navigating ethnographic research are needed.
Recalibrating the management of resources in emergency response
Authors: Amaro Joseph , Fifolt Matthew
Published: August 2023

This article is an example of ‘Lessons from the Field’. Traditionally, preparedness activities emphasize acquisition of resources and the evaluation of resource capabilities. However, as local health departments (LHDs) move into a post‐coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) reality, we suggest greater emphasis be placed on the management of resources. In other words, all‐hazards planning should include policies that empower incident management personnel to complete specific tasks and procedures that ensure adequate and equitable resource deployment. Although resource management looks different for every organisation, identifying and reviewing some of the challenges experienced in Lake County, IL, during the COVID‐19 response may highlight practical solutions for LHDs. Policies and procedures governing resource management during Lake County's COVID‐19 response affected the ability of the Public Health Emergency Operations Center to maintain a common operating picture, provide clear job roles and responsibilities, and prioritize resource application in a dynamic environment. The pace of a global emergency may impact the ability of organisations to conduct these activities, but decision‐makers must obtain the information most likely to impact response efforts. Regardless of the specific resources being applied during an emergency, there will always be a need to identify and review objectives, assess the impact of resource allocation, and adjust resource assignments.
Non‐destructive detection and recognition of pesticide residue levels on cauliflowers using visible/near‐infrared spectroscopy combined with chemometrics
Authors: Zhang Mingyue , Xue Jianxin , Li Yaodi , Yin Junyi , Liu Yang , Wang Kai , Li Zezhen
Published: August 2023

In this study, two prediction models were developed using visible/near‐infrared (Vis/NIR) spectroscopy combined with partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS‐DA) and least squares support vector machine (LS‐SVM) for the detection of pesticide residues of avermectin, dichlorvos, and chlorothalonil at different concentration levels on the surface of cauliflowers. Five samples of each of the three different types of pesticide were prepared at different concentrations and sprayed in groups on the surface of the corresponding cauliflower samples. Utilizing the spectral data collected in the Vis/NIR as input values, comparison and analysis of preprocessed spectral data, and regression coefficient (RC), successive projections algorithm (SPA), and competitive adaptive reweighted sampling (CARS) were used in turn to downscale the data to select the main feature wavelengths, and PLS‐DA and LS‐SVM models were built for comparison. The results showed that the RC‐LS‐SVM was the best discriminant model for detecting avermectin residues concentration on the surface of cauliflowers, with a prediction set discriminant accuracy of 98.33%. For detecting different concentrations of dichlorvos, the SPA‐LS‐SVM had the best predictive accuracy of 95%. The accuracy of the model based on CARS‐PLS‐DA to identify chlorothalonil at different concentration levels on cauliflower surfaces reached 93.33%. The results demonstrated that the Vis/NIR spectroscopy combined with chemometrics could quickly and effectively identify pesticide residues on cauliflower surfaces, affording a certain reference for the rapid recognition of different pesticide residue concentrations on cauliflower surfaces.

Practical Application

Vis/NIR spectroscopy can detect the concentration levels of pesticide residues on the surface of cauliflowers and help food regulators quickly and non‐destructively detect traces of pesticides in food, providing a guarantee for food safety. The technique also provides a basis for determining pesticide residue concentrations on the surface of other vegetables.
Clinicopathological features, treatment modalities, and prognosis of esophageal neuroendocrine carcinoma: A single‐center retrospective study
Authors: Zhang Yao , Liao Jiao Tao , Lin Ying , Liu Chang , Wu Zhen Hua , Yu Bo , Sun Si , Yu Hui , Hui Xiao Hua , Wu Xiang Hua , Zhao Xin Min , Wang Hui Jie , Zheng Qiang , Li Yuan , Hu Zhi Huang , Wang Jia Lei
Published: August 2023

Objectives

Esophageal neuroendocrine carcinoma (ENEC) is a rare cancer that is highly malignant and related to a poor prognosis. In this retrospective study we aimed to elucidate the clinical characteristics, diagnosis and management of patients with ENEC and to evaluate the potential prognostic factors.

Methods

Altogether 82 patients diagnosed with ENEC between January 2009 and December 2020 at the Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center were retrospectively enrolled. Patients’ survival was analyzed using the Kaplan–Meier and log‐rank methods. Univariate and multivariate analyses and a Cox regression model were used to identify the prognostic factors.

Results

The median overall survival (mOS) was 13 months in all patients. Multivariate analysis revealed that advanced tumor stage (hazard ratio [HR] 2.67, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.07–6.66, P = 0.0353), liver (HR 3.36, 95% CI 1.53–7.41, P = 0.0026) and lung metastasis (HR 3.37, 95% CI 1.20–9.51, P = 0.0214) were associated with a poor prognosis. While positive chromogranin A (CgA) expression was related to a favorable outcome (HR 0.21, 95% CI 0.09–0.49, P < 0.001). Also, patients had adjustment of chemotherapy (dose reduction or less than three cycles) were prone to a worse prognosis compared with those did not (HR 4.36, 95% CI 2.10–9.08, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

In patients with ENEC, advanced cancer stage, adjustment of chemotherapy, liver and lung metastasis were associated with a poor survival, while CgA expression was related to a favorable prognosis.
Poncet's disease and tubal tuberculosis: A case report
Authors: Zengin Oğuzhan , Göre Burak , Sağlar Yunus , Şahiner Enes Seyda , İnan Osman , Ateş İhsan
Published: August 2023

A 25‐year‐old female patient was admitted to the hospital with abdominal pain, loss of appetite, and weight loss for the last 5 months. The patient underwent paracentesis five times and was referred to our clinic after peritonitis findings were detected. Tubal tuberculosis was detected during her hospitalization. The patient, who also developed joint pain, was diagnosed with Poncet's disease. She was given quadruple antituberculosis treatment. After the treatment, the patient's joint pain regressed, and the adnexal mass due to tubal tuberculosis disappeared. In this case report, we wanted to present a rare case of Poncet's disease with tubal tuberculosis.
Role of prognostic nutritional index in postoperative radiotherapy for non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Ryu Hyejo , Song Changhoon , Kim Jae‐Sung , Jeon Jae Hyun , Cho Sukki , Kim Kwhanmien , Jheon Sanghoon , Kim Se Hyun , Kim Yu Jung , Lee Jong Seok
Published: August 2023

Background

The prognostic nutritional index (PNI) is known to be correlated with clinical outcomes in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. However, its role has not been studied in patients who have undergone postoperative radiotherapy (PORT). This study aimed to investigate the relationship between PNI and survival and recurrence in NSCLC patients with PORT.

Methods

We reviewed 97 stage I–III NSCLC patients who received PORT between January 2006 and December 2016 at our institution. We obtained PNI values for both pre‐RT (within 1 month before PORT) and post‐RT (within 2 months after PORT) by using serum albumin and lymphocyte count. A cutoff value for PNI was determined by the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC). The median follow‐up period was 52.8 months.

Results

The ROC curve of post‐RT PNI exhibited a higher area under the curve (AUC 0.68, cut‐off: 47.1) than that of pre‐RT PNI (AUC 0.55, cutoff: 50.3), so the group was divided into high post‐RT PNI (> 47.1) and low post‐RT PNI ( 47.1). The five‐year overall survival rate (OS) was 66.2% in the high post‐RT group, compared with 41.8% in the low post‐RT PNI group (p = 0.018). Those with both low pre‐RT and low post‐RT PNI had the worst five‐year OS of 31.1%. Post‐RT PNI (HR 0.92, p = 0.003) was an independent risk factor for mortality.

Conclusions

PNI after PORT was significantly associated with survival. This finding suggests that PNI can be used as a prognostic marker.
Tryptophan metabolism and immune alterations in pregnant Hispanic women with chronic Toxoplasma gondii infection
Authors: Prescott Stephanie , Mutka Tina , Baumgartel Kelley , Yoo Ji Youn , Morgan Hailey , Postolache Teodor T. , Seyfang Andreas , Gostner Johanna M. , Fuchs Dietmar , Kim Kami , Groer Maureen E.
Published: August 2023

Problem

Pregnancy markedly modifies women's metabolism and immune functions. We hypothesized that pregnancy might alter the immune and metabolic responses to chronic Toxoplasma gondii infection in pregnancy.

Method of study

A population of 690 pregnant Hispanic women were screened for antibodies to T. gondii and 158 women were positive (23% positivity) with 83% showing high avidity indices. These seropositive women were followed through their pregnancies with four data collection time points and a postpartum collection at two clinics in Tampa, Florida. A T. gondii seronegative group (N = 128) was randomly selected to serve as a control group and measured along pregnancy in the same way. Serum levels of tryptophan, kynurenine, and their ratio, phenylalanine, tyrosine and their ratio, neopterin, and nitrite were measured through pregnancy and the postpartum. A plasma cytokine panel (IFN‐γ, TNFα, IL‐2, IL‐10, IL‐12, IL‐6, IL‐17) was analyzed in parallel.

Results

The major findings suggest that indoleamine 2,3‐dioxygenase (IDO‐1) was less activated in T. gondii seropositive pregnant Hispanic women with chronic infection. Evidence for IDO‐1 suppression was that tryptophan catabolism was less pronounced and there were lower levels of multiple inflammatory cytokines including IFN‐γ, which is the major inducer of IDO‐1, and higher nitrite concentration, a surrogate marker for nitric oxide, an inhibitor of IDO.

Conclusions

Latent T. gondii infection was associated with higher plasma tryptophan levels, and lower inflammatory cytokines across pregnancy, suggesting suppression of the IDO‐1 enzyme, and possible T cell exhaustion during pregnancy.
Efficacy and safety of on‐demand versus daily rupatadine in chronic spontaneous urticaria: A randomized trial
Authors: Weller Karsten , Gimenez‐Arnau Ana Maria , Baron Jens , Brehler Randolf , Ferrer Marta , Groffik Adriane , Grundmann Sonja , Jakob Thilo , Labrador‐Horrillo Moisés , Müller Sabine , Staubach Petra , Wurpts Gerda , Metz Martin , Maurer Marcus
Published: August 2023

Background

Non‐sedating H1‐antihistamines (nsAH) are the most commonly used treatment for chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU). Many patients use them as on‐demand (OD) therapy rather than a maintenance treatment. Here, we compared OD versus daily maintenance treatment with the nsAH rupatadine, assessed the efficacy of rupatadine updosing, and investigated potential long‐term disease‐modifying effects.

Methods

This multicenter, randomized study consisted of 2 weeks of screening, 8 weeks of double‐blind treatment, and 6 weeks of treatment‐free follow‐up (OD allowed). Adult patients were randomized to 10 mg rupatadine OD or 10 mg rupatadine daily. At Week 4, if patients did not have a complete response, they switched from 10 to 20 mg rupatadine daily or underwent sham updosing (patients on 10 mg rupatadine OD). The primary aim was to compare CSU disease activity at the end of follow‐up between daily versus OD. Additionally, we assessed the efficacy of rupatadine updosing. Major outcomes were disease activity, CSU‐related quality of life (QoL), and disease control.

Results

At Week 4, disease activity and QoL significantly improved in daily versus OD‐treated patients. Updosing of rupatadine did not improve the mean disease activity, but the number of complete responders increased during updosing from 5% to 22%. At the end of follow‐up, the disease activity of patients treated OD versus daily was not significantly different.

Conclusions

Daily rupatadine treatment significantly improved CSU disease activity and QoL during treatment versus OD treatment but not after discontinuation of rupatadine, indicating the benefits of a daily maintenance nsAH schedule.
Therapeutic drug monitoring and virological response at week 48 in a cohort of HIV‐1‐infected patients switching to dolutegravir/rilpivirine dual maintenance therapy (ANRS‐MIE‐BIRIDER study)
Authors: Lemaitre Florian , Lagoutte‐Renosi Jennifer , Gagnieu Marie‐Claude , Parant François , Venisse Nicolas , Grégoire Matthieu , Bouchet Stéphane , Garraffo Rodolphe , Lê Minh P. , Muret Patrice , Comets Emmanuelle , Solas Caroline , Peytavin Gilles ,   the ANRS‐MIE‐BIRIDER Study group on behalf of the Clinical Pharmacology Group of ANRS‐MIE AC43
Published: August 2023

Aims

Dolutegravir (DTG) and rilpivirine (RPV) dual therapy is now recommended as a switch option in virologically suppressed HIV patients. Literature suggests that virological failure with dual therapy could possibly relate to subtherapeutic drug concentrations. In this study, we aimed at describing the DTG and RPV trough plasma concentrations (Cmin) and plasma HIV‐1 RNA viral load (VL) during maintenance dual therapy.

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of DTG and RPV therapeutic drug monitoring in people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) with dual therapy in 9 French centres. DTG and RPV trough plasma concentrations were estimated using a Bayesian approach to predict Cmin. The relationship between the pharmacokinetics of DTG and RPV and VL > 50 copies (cp)/mL was explored using joint nonlinear mixed models. The frequency of subtherapeutic threshold (DTG Cmin below 640 ng/mL and RPV Cmin below 50 ng/mL) were compared between PLWHA presenting VL > 50 cp/mL or not during the study.

Results

At baseline, 209 PLWHA were enrolled in the study. At week 48, 19 people living with HIV/AIDS (9.1%) discontinued their treatment and 15 PLWHA (7.1%) exhibited VL > 50 cp/mL. Six PLWHA out of 15 (40.0%) with VL > 50 cp/mL during the follow‐up had at least 1 Cmin below the respective thresholds while only 26/194 patients (13.4%) without virological replication had at least 1 concentration below the threshold (P = .015).

Conclusion

A majority of PLWHA receiving DTG/RPV maintenance dual therapy demonstrated VL < 50 cp/mL but virological replication was more frequent in people living with HIV/AIDS with subtherapeutic Cmin.
Prostagram magnetic resonance imaging in a screening population: Prostate Imaging‐Reporting and Data System or Likert?
Authors: Mayor Nikhil , Eldred‐Evans David , Tam Henry , Sokhi Heminder , Padhani Anwar R. , Connor Martin J. , Price Derek , Gammon Martin , Klimowska‐Nassar Natalia , Burak Paula , Day Emily , Winkler Mathias , Fiorentino Francesca , Shah Taimur , Ahmed Hashim Uddin
Published: August 2023

Objective

To compare biopsy recommendation rates and accuracy of the Prostate Imaging‐Reporting and Data System, version 2 (PI‐RADSv2) with the Likert scale for detection of clinically significant and insignificant prostate cancer in men screened within the Imperial Prostate 1 Prostate Cancer Screening Trial Using Imaging (IP1‐PROSTAGRAM).

Patients and Methods

Men aged 50–69 years were screened with Prostagram MRI. Scans were prospectively reported using both PI‐RADSv2 (excluding dynamic contrast‐enhanced sequence score) and 5‐point Likert scores by expert uro‐radiologists. Systematic and targeted transperineal biopsy was recommended if the scan was scored ≥ 3, based on either reporting system. The proportion of patients recommended for biopsy and detection rates for Grade Groups (GGs) 1 and ≥ 2 were compared. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed to compare performance.

Results

A total of 406 men underwent Prostagram MRI. The median (interquartile range) age and prostate‐specific antigen level were 57 (53–61) years and 0.91 (0.56–1.74) ng/mL, respectively. At MRI score ≥ 3, more patients were recommended for biopsy based on Likert criteria (94/406; 23%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 19.2%–27.6%) compared to PI‐RADSv2 (72/406; 18%, 95% CI 14.2%–21.9%; P = 0.03). For MRI scores ≥ 4, PI‐RADSv2 and Likert scales led to 43/406 (11%, 95% CI 7.9%–14.1%) and 35/406 (9%, 95% CI 6.2%–11.9%) men recommended for biopsy (P = 0.40). For GG ≥ 2 detection, PIRADSv2 and Likert detected 22% (95% CI 11.4%–30.8%, 14/72) and 16% (95% CI 9.5%–25.3%, 15/94), respectively (P = 0.56). For GG1 cancers detection these were 11% (95% CI 4.3%–19.6%, seven of 72) vs 11% (95% CI 4.7%–17.8%, nine of 94; P = 1.00). The accuracy of PI‐RADSv2 and Likert scale was similar (area under the ROC curve 0.64 vs 0.65, P = 0.95).

Conclusions

In reporting non‐contrast‐enhanced Prostagram MRI in a screening population, the PI‐RADSv2 and Likert scoring systems were equally accurate; however, Likert scale use led to more men undergoing biopsy without a subsequent increase in significant cancer detection rates. To improve reporting of Prostagram MRI, either the PI‐RADSv2 or a modified Likert scale or a standalone scoring system should be developed.
Perceived knowledge relevance in an R&D alliance: The role of job experience, social network position and motivation
Authors: Wang Xiao , van der Bij Hans , Dolfsma Wilfred
Published: August 2023

If employees have access to additional relevant knowledge and information, they can be more innovative, which is a reason for many firms to ally. Key in an alliance is the sharing of existing and creating of new knowledge, but transferring knowledge inside an alliance is not obvious or easy. Knowledge exchanged within an alliance must be perceived as relevant in order for it to be used. If individuals in an alliance can readily perceive knowledge to be relevant, the right knowledge is transferred and is transferred in an efficient manner. Building on stickiness of knowledge and knowledge relevance theory, we examine the relationship between an individual's job experience as well as intrinsic motivation on the one hand, on their perception of the relevance of others' knowledge on the other hand. These relationships are positively moderated by an individual's favourable position and connection strength in the network of individuals engaged in the alliance, respectively. We find a weak but insignificant negative relationship between job experience and perceived knowledge relevance. Being well‐positioned in a network brings out the positive effect of job experience, as expected, whereas connection strength does not further enhance the positive effect of intrinsic motivation.
Single‐cell RNA‐seq reveals a microenvironment and an exhaustion state of T/NK cells in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Zhang Zhiyong , Deng Cong , Zhu Pei , Yao Danlin , Shi Jinlong , Zeng Tiansheng , Huang Wenhui , Huang Zeyong , Wu Zhihua , Li Junyi , Xiao Min , Fu Lin
Published: August 2023

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a heterogeneous blood cancer. Effective immunotherapies for AML are hindered by a lack of understanding of the tumor microenvironment (TME). Here, we retrieved published single‐cell RNA sequencing data for 128,688 cells derived from 29 bone marrow aspirates, including 21 AML patients and eight healthy donors. We established a global tumor ecosystem including nine main cell types. Myeloid, T, and NK cells were further re‐clustered and annotated. Developmental trajectory analysis indicated that exhausted CD8+ T cells might develop via tissue residual memory T cells (TRM) in the AML TME. Significantly higher expression levels of exhaustion molecules in AML TRM cells suggested that these cells were influenced by the TME and entered an exhausted state. Meanwhile, the upregulation of checkpoint molecules and downregulation of granzyme were also observed in AML NK cells, suggesting an exhaustion state. In conclusion, our comprehensive profiling of T/NK subpopulations provides deeper insights into the AML immunosuppressive ecosystem, which is critical for immunotherapies.