bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in community composition determine recovery trajectories from multiple agricultural stressors in freshwater ecosystems
Authors: Polazzo Francesco , dos Anjos Talles Bruno Oliveira , Arenas-Sánchez Alba , Romo Susana , Vighi Marco , Rico Andreu
Published: November 2020

Pesticides have been identified worldwide as a threat for aquatic biodiversity due to their widespread use in agriculture and their capacity to reach freshwater ecosystems. Very little is known about the consequences of pesticide mixtures targeting different organism groups on community dynamics. Especially, how horizontal changes within one trophic level are propagated vertically across the food web has been rarely investigated. To get insight on the effects of pesticide mixtures on community dynamics, we performed a mesocosm experiment manipulating three common agricultural stressors: chlorpyrifos (an insecticide), diuron (an herbicide) and nutrients. The results of this study show that all stressors had significant effects on community composition, species richness and abundance. However, recovery trajectories and ecosystem functioning effects largely depended on the type of stressor as well as on post-disturbance trophic and non-trophic interactions. Effects of pesticides were generally recovered by the end of the experimental period when considering abundance, whereas community composition further departed from control systems. High nutrient loads led to a shift in community composition characterized by high taxa dominance and lower species richness, which in turn contributed to increased total organism abundance and reduced recovery times to pesticide exposure. We found interactions between the tested stressors to be significant only few times at the community level, while interactions were more common at the population level. Our findings indicate that management of freshwater ecosystems should consider pre-disturbance community composition and long-term changes in interactions across different organism groups to set effective protection measures.
Risk perceptions and preventive practices of COVID-19 among healthcare professionals in public hospitals in Ethiopia
Authors: Deressa Wakgari , Worku Alemayehu , Abebe Workeabeba , Gizaw Muluken , Amogne Wondwosson
Published: November 2020

Healthcare professionals are at higher risk of contracting the novel coronavirus due to their work exposure in the healthcare settings. Practicing appropriate preventive measures to control COVID-19 infection is one of the most important interventions that healthcare workers are expected to use. The aim of this study was to assess the level of risk perception and practices of preventive measures of COVID-19 among health workers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted from 9thto 26thJune 2020 among healthcare professionals working at six public hospitals in Addis Ababa. Data were collected using a self-administered structured questionnaire. Frequency, percentage, and mean were used to summarize the data. A binary logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with risk perception about COVID-19. A total of 1,134 participants were surveyed. Wearing facemask (93%), hand washing for at least 20 seconds (93%), covering mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing (91%), and avoiding touching eyes, nose, and mouth (91%) were the commonly self-reported preventive practices. About 88% perceived that they were worried about the risk of becoming infected with coronavirus, and majority (91%) worried about the risk of infection to their family. The mean score of overall fear and worry of COVID-19 was 2.37 on a scale of 1 to 3. Respondents who ever provided clinical care to COVID-19 patients were more likely to report fear and worry (adjusted OR=1.34, 95% CI:1.02-1.91), however those who ever participated in Ebola or SARS outbreaks were less likely to report fear and worry due to COVID-19 crisis (adjusted OR=0.66, 95% CI:0.48-0.90). This study has revealed widespread practices of preventive measures and the highest perceived risk of COVID-19 among healthcare workers. Therefore, an effective risk communication intervention should be implemented to ensure the maintenance of appropriate practices during the current COVID-19 pandemic.
Systemic coaching for higher effectiveness
Authors: Bhatnagar Vikas Rai
Published: November 2020

Purpose

Practitioners’ literature on coaching has swelled as compared to the theoretical grounding and academic research on coaching, thereby questioning if coaching is a profession. Furthermore, the increasing investments in coaching seek a higher return on investments. These trends call for a deeper theoretical grounding of coaching and evolving innovative approaches that increase the effectiveness of coaching. Against this backdrop, this study aims to describe a process a coach can adopt for objectively and systemically understanding the context of the coachee at multiple levels (organizational, teams/dyadic and intrapersonal) to develop and execute an effective coaching intervention.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a radical humanistic paradigm, deploys ecosystems theory, develops a conceptual model and uses it for action researching in an Indian manufacturing organization. This study uses a non-experimental purposive sampling and makes use of a cross-sectional survey method for gathering data by using validated instruments. Guided by the ecosystems theory, data is gathered at three levels of nested systems – the microsystem (intrapersonal and direct reports of coachee), mesosystem (peers and manager of coachee) and the macrosystem (cultural) levels. Analysis of data helps the coach to design and execute an effective coaching intervention at multiple levels – intrapersonal, dyadic and organizational.

Findings

This study provides an alternative approach to systemically diagnose at three levels of the environment (microsystem, mesosystem and macrosystem) and uses validated instruments for assessing the areas of opportunity and concerns for carrying effective coaching. The use of employee strengths that conceives strengths as a dynamic interaction of personal attributes and contextual factors instead of the trait-based conceptualizations in extant literature leads to rich data for designing effective coaching interventions. Using the ecosystems theory for carrying out systemic coaching is an effective approach for professionalizing coaching and increasing the effectiveness of coaching.

Originality/value

The originality of this study lies in using the ecosystems theory for guiding the research, developing the conceptual model, collecting data by using validated instruments and in making use of data across multiple levels of systems (micro, meso and macro) for carrying out systemic coaching. The use of a new higher-order construct of employee strengths at work that conceives strengths as a dynamic interaction of personal traits and contextual factors is yet another originality of the research. Finally, this study identifies key systems variables and provides a proof of concept by executing a generalizable systemic coaching process in an organization.
Simulation-based lean six sigma for Industry 4.0: an action research in the process industry
Authors: Bhat Vinayambika S. , Bhat Shreeranga , Gijo E. V.
Published: November 2020

Purpose

The primary aim of this article is to ascertain the modalities of leveraging Lean Six Sigma (LSS) for Industry 4.0 (I4.0) with special reference to the process industries. Moreover, it intends to determine the applicability of simulation-based LSS in the automation of the mineral water industry, with special emphasis on the robust design of the control system to improve productivity and performance.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopts the action research methodology, which is exploratory in nature along with the DMAIC (define-measure-analyze-improve-control) approach to systematically unearth the root causes and to develop robust solutions. The MATLAB simulation software and Minitab statistical software are effectively utilized to draw the inferences.

Findings

The root causes of critical to quality characteristic (CTQ) and variation in purity level of water are addressed through the simulation-based LSS approach. All the process parameters and noise parameters of the reverse osmosis (RO) process are optimized to reduce the errors and to improve the purity of the water. The project shows substantial improvement in the sigma rating from 1.14 to 3.88 due to data-based analysis and actions in the process. Eventually, this assists the management to realize an annual saving of 20% of its production and overhead costs. This study indicates that LSS can be applicable even in the advent of I4.0 by reinforcing the existing approach and embracing data analysis through simulation.

Research limitations/implications

The limitation of this research is that the inference is drawn based on a single case study confined to process industry automation. Having said that, the methodology deployed, scientific information related to optimization, and technical base established can be generalized.

Originality/value

This article is the first of its kind in establishing the integration of simulation, LSS, and I4.0 with special reference to automation in the process industry. It also delineates the case study in a phase-wise manner to explore the applicability and relevance of LSS with I4.0. The study is archetype in enabling LSS to a new era, and can act as a benchmark document for academicians, researchers, and practitioners for further research and development.
Antiwear and extreme pressure properties of hazelnut oil blended with ZDDP
Authors: Shafi Wani Khalid , Charoo M.S.
Published: November 2020

Purpose

The paper aims to investigate the effect of zinc dialkyldithiophosphate (ZDDP) on wear and extreme pressure (EP) capabilities of hazelnut oil.

Design/methodology/approach

A four-ball tribometer is used to study the effect of ZDDP on the antiwear (AW) and EP performance of hazelnut oil as a lubricant. The AW/EP tests are carried out following ASTM D4172 and ASTM D2783 standards. The wear mechanism of steel balls is studied by scanning electron microscope (SEM). The ZDDP is added in 1Wt.%, 2Wt.% and 3Wt.% concentration, and its presence on surfaces is indicated by Energy Dispersive X-Ray Analysis (EDX).

Findings

The maximum improvement in the wear properties for hazelnut oil is equal to 43.7% and 45.7% at 1Wt.% and 3Wt. % ZDDP, respectively. Also, the load wear index of hazelnut oil increases from 29 to 73.1 at 3Wt.% ZDDP. The improvement in AW and EP properties is attributed to the protective layer formation by ZDDP.

Originality/value

The paper is a novel study investigating the effect of ZDDP additive in hazelnut oil. The results could prove beneficial in making the hazelnut oil a viable replacement of mineral oils.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-06-2020-0217/
A proposed strategy to encounter extremist ideology on Egypt’s frontier governorates: North Sinai case
Authors: O. Elkhosht Mohamed , Mahmoud Mahmoud , Zayed Ahmed , Abdallah Mo’taz S. , Kharbush Mohamed S. A. , Mahmoud Dalal
Published: November 2020

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the relationship between the spread of extremist thoughts and the weak economic and social factors surrounding it. There are higher chances of better understanding of this relationship on Egypt’s borders more than its center. Achieving development and stability leads to creating a preventive environment to extremist thoughts existence and spread, in addition to preventing its transformation into terrorism.

Design/methodology/approach

The study depends on an analytical methodology to examine the validity of the research hypothesis through two basic steps. The first step depends on describing the geographical, demographical, economic, social, political and security aspects of North Sinai. The second step is a prospective approach to build a strategy that helps in achieving development and accordingly a comprehensive confront for the opportunities of extremist thought spreading in North Sinai.

Findings

The study concludes that Egypt is well aware of the dimensions of encountering extremist thoughts and has adopted a comprehensive approach in achieving this. It has already started the paces of this confrontation in general, with some specificity in North Sinai Governorate that observed lately increased activities by extremists and terrorist groups. The proposed strategy is a set of policies that can help the country achieve its goals against extremism and terrorism.

Research limitations/implications

The study covers a time frame that starts from 2014, which is considered the beginning of a new phase for the Egyptian state. The study relies on the field of strategic studies and it focuses on North Sinai Governorate.

Originality/value

The study has a scientific importance because it presents a proposal for a comprehensive strategy to encounter extremist thoughts, which adds value to the literature of the study of extremism. The current study makes its contributions in some directions, such as reviewing the contents of this extremist thought or the juristic comment on it, the impacts of the spread of extremist thoughts, the role of the official media in disseminating extremist thoughts or standing up to it. In terms of application, the study presents a proposal with many policies in various fields to counter extremist ideology. These proposals are implementable in North Sinai Governorate as well as other frontier governorates.
Expatriates' salary expectations, age, experience and country image
Authors: Duarte Henrique , de Eccher Umberto , Brewster Chris
Published: November 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explain how candidates' expectations of salary in relation to job offers as expatriates in developing societies are related to country image and to age.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from over 500 engineers living in France, Portugal and Spain, evaluating two hypothetical expatriate proposals to six different African and Latin American countries. Multivariate hierarchical regression was applied to statistically detect significant predictors, with a broad range of control variables, to investigate expatriate salary expectations.

Findings

Results evidence the role of age, seniority, previous international experience and culture attraction for the host country in influencing salary expectations for potential expatriate postings. These results are discussed at the light of selection, optimisation and compensation theory (SOC), conservation of resources theory (COR) and social identity theory.

Practical implications

Findings call for multinational companies to consider age, individual background, career attributes and location concerns when evaluating salary expectations involved in expatriation to developing countries.

Originality/value

The study shows how individual expectations about required salaries for accepting expatriate job offers in developing countries (hardly addressed in the extant literature) result from the potential for professional development opportunities and the responsibility of the jobs being offered, the country image, and the age and motivation of the individuals. Furthermore, it integrates research through use of SOC and COR theories.
Narrative inquiry on case studies of crisis in dementia
Authors: Bosco Alessandro , Schneider Justine , Coleston-Shields Donna Maria , Orrell Martin
Published: November 2020

Purpose

This study aims to explore the coping styles that can be inferred from the discourse of dyads with dementia, and how these appear to impact on care management.

Design/methodology/approach

This was a case study approach. Participants were recruited from two teams managing crisis in dementia in the UK. The authors conducted multiple qualitative interviews with people with dementia and their family carers over the course of one month. The analysis was first performed through thematic analysis. Data were further analysed through narrative inquiry to create a story line, or play in our case, for our findings.

Findings

Five dyads were interviewed and a total of 16 interviews were conducted. Three dyads were husband–wife and two were daughter–mother relationships. The mean age was 67.4 years for carers and 79.8 years for people with dementia. In these cases, the carer assumed responsibility for managing the episode and was more likely to seek formal help if a pre-existing plan was in place. Otherwise, when a crisis arose, dyads preferred to avoid involving professionals.

Practical implications

Psychosocial interventions should aim to identify and replace unhelpful strategies used by dyads to manage crisis episodes.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study using qualitative interviews of dyads to inquire into their experience of mental health crisis.
Region-based layered infill area generation of STL models for additive manufacturing
Authors: Zhang Nan , Zhang Lichao , Wang Senlin , Wen Shifeng , Shi Yusheng
Published: November 2020

Purpose

In the implementation of large-size additive manufacturing (AM), the large printing area can be established by using the tiled and fixed multiple printing heads or the single dynamic printing head moving in the x–y plane, which requires a layer decomposition after the mesh slicing to generate segmented infill areas. The data processing flow of these schemes is redundant and inefficient to some extent, especially for the processing of complex stereolithograph (STL) models. It is of great importance in improving the overall efficiency of large-size AM technics software by simplifying the redundant steps. This paper aims to address these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, a method of directly generating segmented layered infill areas is proposed for AM. Initially, a vertices–mesh hybrid representation of STL models is constructed based on a divide-and-conquer strategy. Then, a trimming–mapping procedure is performed on sliced contours acquired from partial surfaces. Finally, to link trimmed open contours and inside-signal square corners as segmented infill areas, a region-based open contour closing algorithm is carried out in virtue of the developed data structures.

Findings

In virtue of the proposed approach, the segmented layered infill areas can be directly generated from STL models. Experimental results indicate that the approach brings us the good property of efficiency, especially for complex STL models.

Practical implications

The proposed approach can generate segmented layered infill areas efficiently in some cases.

Originality/value

The region-based layered infill area generation approach discussed here will be a supplement to current data process technologies in large-size AM, which is very suitable for parallel processing and enables us to improve the efficiency of large-size AM technics software.
Hot and bothered: The role of behaviour and microclimates in buffering species from rising temperatures
Authors: Senior Rebecca A.
Published: November 2020

In Focus: Bladon, A. J., Lewis, M., Bladon, E. K., Buckton, S. J., Corbett, S., Ewing, S. R., … Turner, E. C. (2020). How butterflies keep their cool: Physical and ecological traits influence thermoregulatory ability and population trends. Journal of Animal Ecology. https://doi.org/10.1111/1365‐2656.13319

Threatened with rising average temperatures and the new normal of climate extremes, species that cannot keep pace with climate change must adapt where they are, or face extinction. The ranges of many British butterflies have indeed extended northwards as the climate has warmed, but this option is increasingly restricted by the expansion and intensification of urban and agricultural lands. On a day‐to‐day basis, butterflies can thermoregulate using behaviours such as adjusting their wing positioning or moving into suitable microclimates. The extent to which these two options buffer individuals from free‐air temperature, however, is not well known. Nor is the extent to which the different mechanisms are exploited by different species, and whether that has had any bearing on species' population trends over the time‐scale of recent climate change. Using a simple and easily replicated approach, Bladon et al. (2020) were able to quantify intra‐ and interspecific variation in buffering ability, and species' relative reliance on the two thermoregulatory mechanisms of wing adjustment versus microclimate selection. The authors report marked variation in buffering capacity, correlated with wing size, wing colouration and taxonomic family. Species also differed in their thermoregulatory behaviours, with some – such as the Ringlet Aphantopus hyperantus and Large Skipper Ochlodes sylvanus—achieving impressive buffering through wing positioning. Others, like the Brown Argus Aricia agestis and Small Heath Coenonympha pamphilus, were more reliant on microclimate selection, and these were the species most likely to have shown declining population trends over the past 40 years. The study underscores the importance of individual thermoregulatory behaviours for understanding species' vulnerability to climate change. In combination with much improved methods for measuring and modelling climate at biologically relevant scales, the approach of Bladon et al. (2020) can and should be extended to identify the places and species most at risk, and the steps that conservation practitioners can take to maximise resilience to climate change. Much attention has been given to improving habitat connectivity to facilitate range shifts, but we should also consider how microclimate availability can be enhanced to allow species to manage when they cannot move.
Strip‐Searching for Nationality Documents
Authors: Spalding Amanda
Published: November 2020

Section 51 of the UK's Immigration Act 2016 introduced a new power to conduct strip‐searches for nationality documents on those held in immigration detention or in prisons. Unlike in previous case law, the goal of this new power appears to be administrative efficiency, rather than safety and security. This article describes the wider legal context of the measure and analyses it from a human rights perspective. This includes an in‐depth examination of the administrative justification for this new power as well as a critical look at some of the issues with strip‐searching in practice.
Intrathecal autologous bone marrow stem cell therapy in children with autism: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Sharifzadeh Narges , Ghasemi Ali , Tavakol Afshari Jalil , Moharari Fatemeh , Soltanifar Atefeh , Talaei Ali , Pouryousof Hamid Reza , Nahidi Mahsa , Fayyazi Bordbar Mohammad Reza , Ziaee Maliheh
Published: November 2020

Introduction

This study aimed to determine the safety and efficacy of treatment with autologous bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell (BMMSCs) compared with the routine treatment in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Methods

In this ethically approved randomized controlled trial, 32 ASD children aged 5‐15 years were randomly assigned to receive either autologous BMMSC plus rehabilitation therapy and risperidone (intervention group) or rehabilitation therapy and risperidone (control group). Autologous BMMSCs were intrathecally injected in the intervention group twice in 4 weeks. Patients were assessed using childhood autism rating scale (CARS), Gilliam autism rating scale‐second edition (GARS‐II), and clinical global impression (CGI) at the baseline, as well as 6 and 12 months after intervention.

Results

Overall, 32 patients in two groups of intervention (n = 14) and control (n = 18) completed the study, of which 27 (84.4%) were male. Mean age was 9.50 ± 2.14 years. The improvements in CARS total score, GARS‐II autism index, and CGI global improvement showed no significant differences between the groups over 12 months. However, the main effect for time*group interaction was significant regarding the CGI‐severity of illness, showing a significantly more pronounced improvement in the intervention group (F = 6.719; P = .002).

Discussion

Intrathecal injection of autologous BMMSCs seems to be safe and feasible, but has limited clinical efficacy in treatment of children with ASD.
Extracellular vesicle‐associated organotropic metastasis
Authors: Mo Zhenzhen , Cheong Jia Yang Alex , Xiang Lirong , Le Minh T. N. , Grimson Andrew , Zhang Daniel Xin
Published: November 2020

Metastasis refers to the progressive dissemination of primary tumour cells and their colonization of other tissues and is associated with most cancer‐related mortalities. The disproportional and systematic distribution pattern of distant metastasis in different cancers has been well documented, as is termed metastatic organotropism, a process orchestrated by a combination of anatomical, pathophysiological, genetic and biochemical factors. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), nanosized cell‐derived membrane‐bound particles known to mediate intercellular communication, are now considered crucial in organ‐specific metastasis. Here, we review and summarize recent findings regarding EV‐associated organotropic metastasis as well as some of the general mechanisms by which EVs contribute to this important process in cancer and provide a future perspective on this emerging topic. We highlight studies that demonstrate a role of tumour‐derived EVs in organotropic metastasis via pre‐metastatic niche modulation. The bioactive cargo carried by EVs is of diagnostic and prognostic values, and counteracting the functions of such EVs may be a novel therapeutic strategy targeting metastasis. Further investigations are warranted to better understand the functions and mechanisms of EVs in organotropic metastasis and accelerate the relevant clinical translation.
Concomitant tacrolimus and ketorolac therapy in pediatric liver transplant recipients: Teaching old dogma new tricks
Authors: Chen Justin , Salerno David , Breslin Nadine , Chowdhury Tasnim , Lobritto Steven , Martinez Mercedes , Goldner Dana , Vittorio Jennifer
Published: November 2020

Nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ketorolac, are effective analgesic medications, but concerns for nephrotoxicity have limited their role for pain control following pediatric liver transplantation (LT). Calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs) and NSAIDs share a similar mechanism of nephrotoxicity, and concomitant administration is traditionally discouraged. A retrospective review of pediatric LT recipients was conducted between 1/1/2015 and 12/31/2019 at a single center. Patients were stratified based on receipt of ketorolac. The primary outcome was the incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI). Secondary outcomes included serum creatinine, urine output, estimated glomerular filtration rate, bleeding incidence, oral morphine milligram equivalents, and hospital length of stay (LOS). The incidence of AKI was similar between the two groups with 25.8% of patients in the ketorolac group versus 29.2% of patients in the nonketorolac group (p = .475) meeting criteria in the first 10 days post‐transplant. Opioid requirements were less in the ketorolac group (p < .001), who also demonstrated shorter LOS compared with nonketorolac patients (p = .033). Concurrent CNI and ketorolac use did not result in an increased incidence of AKI in the early post‐LT period and resulted in significantly lower opioid requirements along with a decreased hospital LOS.
Diagnostic utility of fine needle aspiration cytology and core biopsy histopathology with or without immunohistochemical staining in the subtyping of the non‐small cell lung carcinomas: Experience from an academic centre in Turkey
Authors: Bayrak Büşra Yaprak , Paksoy Nadir , Vural Çiğdem
Published: November 2020

Introduction

This retrospective morphological study compared the results of fine needle aspiration (FNA) cytology, haematoxylin‐eosin (HE)‐stained samples and immunohistochemical (IHC)‐stained core needle biopsy (CNB) histology samples for primary non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) subtyping. We assessed the diagnostic utility of these methods to investigate the contribution of each method to NSCLC subtyping. We also identified the point at which NSCLC subtyping could be performed using histomorphology alone without IHC.

Methodology

Concurrent FNA and CNB specimens obtained via a single computed tomography‐guided procedure and diagnosed as NSCLC in the Pathology Department of our university within 3 years were reviewed. The results of FNA samples, HE‐stained biopsies and IHC‐stained biopsies were compared according to subtype.

Results

A total of 141 subjects were enrolled in the study. For subtyping, FNA provided an accurate diagnosis in 70 (55.1%) of 127 eligible subjects after the exclusion of 14 cases determined as not otherwise specified. CNB histology without IHC achieved a diagnosis in 53 (41.7%) of 127 subjects, which was a significant difference (P < .05). The compatibility rate between HE‐stained biopsy samples and IHC‐stained biopsy samples was 41.7% (53/127).

Conclusion

The diagnosis rates achieved using FNA, HE‐stained CNB samples and IHC‐stained CNB samples were 54.6% (77/141), 37.6% (53/141) and 90.1% (127/141), respectively. The subtype was identified in 55.1% of the subjects evaluated using FNA and 41.7% of subjects assessed using HE‐stained biopsy samples without IHC. FNA provided a better result for squamous cell carcinoma than adenocarcinoma (55.1% vs 47.6%), but the diagnosing of adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma using HE‐stained biopsy samples was similar (42% vs 41.7%).
Endoscopic ultrasound‐guided pancreatic drainage vs device‐assisted endoscopic retrograde pancreatography in surgically altered anatomy: Friends rather than competitors
Authors: Deprez Pierre H.
Published: November 2020

This Editorial refers to the article by H. Kogure et al., p 441‐450 of this issue.
Erysiphe lespedezae causing powdery mildew on Bauhinia variegata, B. blakeana and Desmodium caudatum in Taiwan
Authors: Xiao Yi‐Ting , Wang Chao‐Jen , Huang Tung‐Chin , Shen Yuan‐Min
Published: November 2020

In March 2020, symptoms of powdery mildew were observed on Bauhinia variegata, B. blakeana and Desmodium caudatum in Taiwan. The fungus was identified as Erysiphe lespedezae based on morphological characteristics of the anamorph and the molecular analysis of the rDNA ITS sequences. In the phylogenetic tree, the powdery mildews on Bauhinia spp. and D. caudatum were divided into two groups, suggesting that cryptic species may exist in E. lespedezae. To our knowledge, this is the first confirmed record of E. lespedezae on the plants in Fabaceae in Taiwan.
Structural densification of lithium phosphoaluminoborate glasses
Authors: Liu Pengfei , Søndergaard Andreas L. S. , Youngman Randall E. , Rzoska Sylwester J. , Bockowski Michal , Jensen Lars R. , Smedskjaer Morten M.
Published: November 2020

Lithium aluminoborate glasses have recently been found to undergo dramatic changes in their short‐range structures upon compression at moderate pressure (~1 GPa), most notably manifested in an increase in network forming cation coordination number (CN). This has important consequences for their mechanical behavior, and to further understand the structural densification mechanisms of this glass family, we here study the effect of P2O5 incorporation in a lithium aluminoborate glass (with fixed Li/Al/B ratio) on the pressure‐induced changes in structure, density, and hardness. We find that P2O5 addition results in a more open and soft network, with P‐O‐Al and P‐O‐B bonding, a slightly smaller fraction of tetrahedral‐to‐trigonal boron, and an unchanged aluminum speciation. Upon compression, the cation‐oxygen CNs of both boron and aluminum increase systemically, whereas the number of bridging oxygens around phosphorous (Qn) decreases. The glasses with higher P2O5 content feature a larger decrease in Qn (P) upon compression, which leads to more non‐bridging oxygen that in turn fuel the larger increase in CN of B and Al for higher P2O5 content. We find that the CN changes of Al and B can account for a large fraction (around 50% at 2 GPa) of the total volume densification and that the extent of structural changes (so‐called atomic self‐adaptivity) scales well with the extent of volume densification and pressure‐induced increase in hardness.
Predicting Academic Success: A Longitudinal Study of University Design Students
Authors: Crowther Philip , Briant Sarah
Published: November 2020

This article presents a longitudinal study, over eleven years, of the academic progress of a cohort of design students (n = 475) at a major Australian university. The students were from four different spatial design disciplines: architecture, industrial design, interior design, and landscape architecture. The article identifies cognitive variables that may predict future academic success. This research uses regression analysis to identify correlations across a range of variables, in particular exploring the relationship between university entrance scores, subjects studied at school (art and graphics) and academic success as defined by university grade point average and time to completion. This study shows that prior knowledge in art and graphics is not a useful predictor of future academic success, while university entrance scores and first year performance are related to ongoing academic success. These results suggest that for the design disciplines explored here, discipline‐specific prior knowledge is not an important requirement for university entrance.
Validity and reliability of the ‘Leisure Participation Observation’ among adults with intellectual disabilities: A pilot study
Authors: Keller Aviva , Weintraub Naomi
Published: November 2020

Background

Individuals with intellectual disabilities have decreased leisure participation, affecting their health and well‐being. Existing measures of leisure participation are primarily based on self‐ or proxy reports. This study describes the initial validity and reliability of Leisure Participation Observation (LPO), developed for individuals with ID.

Method

Two judge panels (N = 10 each) completed a table of specifications for content validity. Reliability of the LPO was established on 38 individuals with moderate ID 25–45 years old.

Results

This study established the content validity of the LPO. Additionally, weighted kappa showed moderate–high statistically significant inter‐rater reliability (.667–.859, p < .01) and low–moderate, significant test–retest reliability, based on intraclass correlations (.226–.474, p < .05). Finally, results yielded moderate–high internal consistency (α = .74).

Conclusions

The LPO shows promise as an observation tool for assessing leisure participation in the moderate ID population that may serve as the basis for developing intervention programmes.
The role of artificial intelligence in cosmetic dermatology—Current, upcoming, and future trends
Authors: Elder Alexandra , Ring Christina , Heitmiller Kerry , Gabriel Zena , Saedi Nazanin
Published: November 2020

Within the field of cosmetic dermatology, several promising developments utilize artificial intelligence to better patient care. While many new treatments in cosmetic dermatology feature components of artificial intelligence, there is a knowledge gap within the field regarding the current and developing products featuring AI. We aim to highlight current and developing applications of artificial intelligence in cosmetic dermatology and provide insight into future modalities in this field. Methods include literature review, including peer‐reviewed journal articles as well as product websites. In an age of medical and technological advancement, the utility of artificial intelligence models continues to grow.There are many new facets of artificial intelligence in cosmetic dermatology, marketed to both the consumer and the physician. With the development of customizable skin care, augmented reality applications, and at‐home skin analysis tools, patients are empowered to be the masters of their cosmetic care. Artificial intelligence is utilized by physicians in new ways in their practices, with the advent of models for prediction of clinical outcome to treatments and tools for in‐depth analysis of the patient's skin. Further research is required in the development of automated energy‐based treatment devices and robotic‐assisted treatments. Models for AI in cosmetic dermatology serve to increase patient involvement in their skin care decisions and have the ability to enhance the patient‐physician experience. Dermatologists should be well‐informed of the emerging technologies to better educate patients and enhance their clinical practice.
Efficacy and toxicity of pegylated liposomal doxorubicin as therapy for recurrent ovarian cancer in relation to the number of previous chemotherapy regimens: Comparison with gemcitabine
Authors: Takahashi Yoshifumi , Takei Yuji , Machida Shizuo , Taneichi Akiyo , Takahashi Suzuyo , Yoshiba Takahiro , Koyanagi Takahiro , Tamura Kohei , Saga Yasushi , Fujiwara Hiroyuki
Published: November 2020

Aim

Pegylated liposomal doxorubicin (PLD) is one of the second‐line chemotherapy regimens for platinum‐resistant recurrent ovarian cancer, but in clinical practice, it is also used for third or subsequent lines of chemotherapy. There is no report on the efficacy and toxicity of PLD in relation to the number of previous chemotherapy regimens. The purpose of this study was to clarify these points and compare with the results of gemcitabine (GEM) therapy we reported previously.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients with platinum‐resistant recurrent ovarian cancer who underwent two or more cycles of PLD therapy between July 2009 and March 2017 at our institution. We used our reported data of GEM for comparison analysis.

Results

Seventy‐eight patients were enrolled in this study. The overall response rate was 19.2% and the disease control rate (DCR) was 53.8%. The DCR with 1, 2, 3, and 4 or more previous regimens was 53.8%, 48.6%, 63.6% and 66.7%, respectively. Grade 3/4 neutropenia and anemia developed in 59.0% and 12.8%, respectively. Grade 2 or higher hand ‐foot syndrome, stomatitis, and liver dysfunction developed in 25.6%, 25.6% and 2.6%, respectively. When the number of previous regimens was 3 or higher, the DCR of PLD was significantly higher than that of GEM (64.7% vs 30.8%, P = 0.037).

Conclusion

The DCR did not decrease with a greater number of previous regimens. When the number of previous regimens was 3 or higher, PLD therapy had a superior DCR to GEM therapy. Toxicity was tolerable in PLD therapy.
Trends in mortality in hepatitis C infection and alcoholic liver disease based on drug overdose in the United States
Authors: Kim Donghee , Alshuwaykh Omar S. , Cholankeril George , Wong Robert J. , Ahmed Aijaz
Published: November 2020

We examined trends in mortality from hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and alcoholic liver disease (ALD) in the setting of drug overdose. Using US Census and national mortality records (2009‐2018), we identified deaths with HCV infection, ALD and drug overdose. HCV‐related mortality without drug overdose increased up to 2014, followed by a marked decrease. Mortality from HCV and drug overdose increased significantly. Whereas ALD‐related mortality without drug overdose continued to rise, no significant trend from ALD with drug overdose was noted. HCV‐related mortalities reduced after the introduction of DAA agents, while drug overdose‐related mortality in HCV was constantly increased.
Stomatal closure of tomato under drought is driven by an increase in soil–root hydraulic resistance
Authors: Abdalla Mohanned , Carminati Andrea , Cai Gaochao , Javaux Mathieu , Ahmed Mutez Ali
Published: November 2020

The fundamental question as to what triggers stomatal closure during soil drying remains contentious. Thus, we urgently need to improve our understanding of stomatal response to water deficits in soil and atmosphere. Here, we investigated the role of soil–plant hydraulic conductance (Ksp) on transpiration (E) and stomatal regulation. We used a root pressure chamber to measure the relation between E, leaf xylem water potential (ψleaf‐x) and soil water potential (ψsoil) in tomato. Additional measurements of ψleaf‐x were performed with unpressurized plants. A soil–plant hydraulic model was used to simulate E(ψleaf‐x) for decreasing ψsoil. In wet soils, E(ψleaf‐x) had a constant slope, while in dry soils, the slope decreased, with ψleaf‐x rapidly and nonlinearly decreasing for moderate increases in E. The ψleaf‐x measured in pressurized and unpressurized plants matched well, which indicates that the shoot hydraulic conductance did not decrease during soil drying and that the decrease in Ksp is caused by a decrease in soil–root conductance. The decrease of E matched well the onset of hydraulic nonlinearity. Our findings demonstrate that stomatal closure prevents the drop in ψleaf‐x caused by a decrease in Ksp and elucidate a strong correlation between stomatal regulation and belowground hydraulic limitation.
Susceptibility to Inattention: Unpacking Who is Susceptible to Inattention in Energy‐Based Electronic Billing
Authors: Curley Cali , Rustamov Galib , Harrison Nicky , Venable Madeline
Published: November 2020

In this paper, we examine characteristics that may change the susceptibility to inattention in electronic billing (e‐billing). Digitization of energy bills can increase the delivery of energy feedback and increase knowledge around conservation efforts, only when attention remains at similar levels to that of paper bills. We hypothesize that only subsets of the population are susceptible to inattention in e‐billing. We do this by estimating energy consumption for e‐bill and paper billers controlling for several characteristics of participants, homes, and weather in the City of Tallahassee, Florida. We use a difference‐in‐differences (DD) approach to estimate the effects of the e‐bill participation, which is a common approach for observational and quasi‐experimental settings. We find that budget constraints limit an individual’s susceptibility to inattention in e‐billing, with lower income groups decreasing energy consumption on average by 4.4% but has no effect on higher income groups. This suggests that inattention may not occur at the same levels or for the same reasons for all members of the public. This has implications regarding the practice of policy design and communication strategies for the public at large.
Trends in sickle cell trait and disease screening in the Republic of Uganda, 2014–2019
Authors: Hernandez Arielle G. , Kiyaga Charles , Howard Thad A. , Ssewanyana Isaac , Ndeezi Grace , Aceng Jane R. , Ware Russell E.
Published: November 2020

Objective

Sickle cell disease is an important public health issue that is increasingly recognised as a substantial contributor to morbidity and early childhood mortality in sub‐Saharan Africa. We aimed to provide information from large‐scale, long‐term sickle cell screening efforts in Africa.

Methods

We used nationally representative data from the centralised public health laboratory database in Uganda to examine epidemiological trends in sickle cell screening over a five‐year period, comparing age and geographic adjustments to prevalence among different testing cohorts of children aged 0–24 months, and calculating screening coverage within high‐burden districts.

Results

A total of 324 356 children aged 0–24 months were screened for sickle cell trait and disease from February 2014 to March 2019. A high national burden of sickle cell disease (0.9%) was confirmed among a cohort of samples co‐tested with HIV. In the cohort of samples referred specifically for sickle cell testing, the overall prevalence of sickle cell disease was 9.7% and particularly elevated in high‐burden districts where focused screening occurred. The majority of children were screened before age 4 months, but the sickle‐specific cohort had a larger proportion of affected children tested between age 5–9 months, coincident with onset of disease signs and symptoms. Successful screening coverage of sickle cell disease births was achieved in several high‐burden districts.

Conclusions

Examination and analysis of national sickle cell screening trends in Uganda documents the successes of focused screening strategies as an important step towards universal screening. With this evidence and increased healthcare provider knowledge, Uganda can optimise sickle cell diagnosis and management across the country.
3D Printing of Flexible Sensing Actuators
Authors: Gonzalez Rodriguez David , Garcia Jose , Ducharne Benjamin , Voyles Richard , Nawrocki Robert A. , Newell Brittany
Published: November 2020

3D printed flexible sensors have demonstrated great potential for utilization in a variety of different applications including healthcare, environmental sensing, and industrial applications. In recent years, research on this topic has increased to meet low-cost sensing needs due to the development of innovative materials and printing techniques that reduce cost, production time, and enhance the electrical and mechanical properties of the sensors. This paper presents computational simulations of 3D printed flexible sensors, capable of producing an output signal based on the deformation caused by external forces. Two different sensors were designed and tested, working based on a capacitance and resistance change produced by structural deformation. The capacitance sensor was designed maximizing the area of the electrodes and distributing the electrodes over a flexible membrane taking advantage of the produced deformation to reduce the distance between the electrodes. The reduction in the distance between the electrodes increases the capacitance value of the structure. The capacitance sensor was able to almost triple its baseline capacitance when 30 kPa of pressure was applied. The resistance sensor was designed with one continuous flexible conductive element attached to a flexible membrane, taking advantage of the distortion induced in the conductive element. The deformation in the conductive element increases the length of the resistor and causes the resistance value of the structure to increase. The resistance sensor was able to increase its resistance by 1200 ω with 30 kPa of applied pressure. Finally, preliminary results of 3D printed sensors were demonstrated.