bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Social–emotional functioning in young people with symptoms of eating disorders: A gender inclusive analogue study
Authors: Boscoe Ashley , Stanbury Rebecca , Harrison Amy
Published: January 2021

Introduction

Contemporary models of eating disorders (EDs) suggest that EDs are maintained by social–emotional difficulties. However, supporting evidence is derived largely from female, clinic‐based samples. This study, which refrained from gender specific inclusion criteria, aimed to improve understanding of social–emotional functioning in a large community‐based analogue sample of young adults aged 16–26.

Methods

Five hundred and forty‐four participants (85.1% female; mean age 21, SD = 4.3) completed the Eating Attitudes Test, Clinical Outcomes in Routine Evaluation, Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale, Social Phobia Inventory, Revised Social Anhedonia Scale, Toronto Alexithymia Scale, and the Reading the Mind in the Eyes Task.

Results

One hundred and sixty‐four participants scored over the EAT‐26 clinical cutoff, and a two‐way multivariate analysis of covariance found a medium‐sized, statistically significant main effect of group on social–emotional functioning (F(5, 530) = 6.204, p ≤ .001, Wilks' Λ = 0.945, d = 0.48.), suggesting that individuals with significant ED symptoms found it more challenging to notice, label, and regulate emotions in themselves and recognize emotions in others. Gender did not significantly impact social–emotional functioning (F(10, 1,060) = 0.556, p = .850, Wilks' Λ = 0.990), and there was no significant group by gender interaction (F(10, 1,060) = 0.688, p = .737, Wilks' Λ = 0.987).

Conclusion

These data suggest that the social–emotional difficulties, particularly with emotion recognition and regulation, present in clinical samples are also evident in young people of all genders with significant disordered eating. Future work could aim to recruit an even more gender‐diverse community sample to further elucidate social–emotional functioning in individuals in the community with significant disordered eating.
Long‐term misdiagnosis and neurologic outcomes of thallium poisoning: A case report and literature review
Authors: Liu Hailing , Liao Geng
Published: January 2021

Introduction

Thallium poisoning is a rare occurrence. Therefore, thallium poisoning is easily misdiagnosed and is often accompanied by a series of serious sequelae and can even result in death in severe cases. Here, we report long‐term follow‐up of a case of a patient who was poisoned with thallium on two separate occasions.

Methods

A 43‐year‐old man was initially misdiagnosed as gastroenteritis, diabetic peripheral neuropathy, and Guillain–Barré Syndrome (GBS) within 21 months. The correct diagnosis was confirmed by blood and urine thallium assays. After Prussian blue treatment, thallium was undetectable in the blood by day 60. Following this investigation, a criminal suspect confessed to two instances of adulterating thallium sulfate in the patient's beverage. A 6‐year follow‐up was performed after discharge, and a comprehensive literature was review.

Results

We found that the original gastrointestinal symptoms, skin lesions, and hair loss were reversed and had recovered, except for residual neurologic damage, even with long‐term rehabilitation.

Discussion

Thallium intoxication may have been initially identified if neurologic symptoms had occurred concurrently with gastrointestinal and cutaneous symptoms. Neurologic damage represented the main sequelae of thallium poisoning in our present case report.
Environmental proactivity, competitive strategy, and market performance: The mediating role of environmental reputation
Authors: Nguyen Nguyen Phong , Adomako Samuel
Published: January 2021

This article examines the impact of small and medium‐sized enterprises' (SMEs) proactive environmental strategy on market performance through the mediating mechanism of environmental reputation. In addition, we investigate the potential moderating role of competitive strategies on the environmental reputation‐market performance nexus. Data were collected from 223 SMEs. Using the hierarchical multiple regression analysis, the results show that a proactive environmental strategy positively enhances environmental reputation. Also, the influence of proactively environmental strategy on market performance is mediated by environmental reputation. In addition, our findings show the relationship between environmental reputation and market performance is greater for firms that adopt the differentiation strategy but not significant for firms adopting the low‐cost and integrated strategies. Our study offers several theoretical and practical implications.
Industry 4.0 and the circular economy: A literature review and recommendations for future research
Authors: Awan Usama , Sroufe Robert , Shahbaz Muhammad
Published: January 2021

Research regarding the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Industry 4.0) and the circular economy has gained traction since 2014. Paralleling the growth in the internet of things (IoT), the circular economy poses both risks and opportunities to various stakeholders in its development. This literature review aims to identify Industry 4.0 stakeholders' interests and expectations regarding how the IoT can be part of circular economy management. Contributions include identifying various IoT tools for dealing with circular economy challenges while also addressing implementation best practices. The transition of the circular economy within Industry 4.0 requires a better understanding of government, suppliers, international organizational interests, and expectations regarding the IoT. This study enables future research on circular economy practices and their potential sustainability benefits for manufacturing firms. This study's findings allow practitioners and researchers to understand the literature and critical elements of the transition toward a more circular economy.
The fibers of the circular junction of the linea alba in normal adult anatomy
Authors: Merh Radhika , Saunders Michael , Jenner Deborah
Published: January 2021

The linea alba (LA) is known to be useful to surgeons for making surgical incisions. Laparoscopic entry into the peritoneal cavity using the open technique may involve identification of a point just above or below the umbilicus where the peritoneum is fused to the LA. This anatomical site is found through superficial dissection to expose the junction between the umbilical stalk (US) and the LA, where distinct fibers seem to form a unique ligament‐like structure in normal adult anatomy. This point, in fact, is part of a circular fibrous structure that exists almost like a ring around the remnant US. It is formed by the fusion of oblique and transverse fibers of the LA with circular fibers from proliferation of an encircling band of compact mesoderm to close a patent umbilical ring. We describe and name this anatomical landmark as junctio circularis alba or the “circular junction of the LA” as encountered in normal adult human anatomy. We believe this is crucial for describing key surgical procedures at this site to aid effective surgical training and reduce iatrogenic complications from laparoscopic port site entries.
A core syllabus for histology within the medical curriculum—The cell and basic tissues
Authors: Cui Dongmei , Moxham Bernard John
Published: January 2021

The International Federation of Associations of Anatomists (IFAA) are developing core syllabuses for the anatomical sciences by means of Delphi panels. In this article, we provide the core subject matter for the teaching of the cell and of basic tissues within a medical histology course. The goal is to set an international standard providing guidelines for such a core syllabus. The Delphi panel, composed of members across multiple countries, required two rounds to evaluate 257 relevant items/topics approved by the IFAA. Based on the perception of the core knowledge of histology, the items were to be rated by each member of the Delphi panel as being “Essential,” “Important,” “Acceptable,” or “Not required.” Topics that were rated by over 60% of the panelists as being “Essential” and “Important” are provided in this article and are recommended for the teaching of medical histology.
Examining corporate social responsibility awareness: An unaided recall measure
Authors: Rayne Daniel , Pervan Simon , McDonald Heath , Leckie Civilai
Published: January 2021

As professional sports teams commonly partner with multiple charity organizations to achieve corporate social responsibility objectives, the purpose of this research was to measure charity brand awareness among sports fans via unaided recall. Further, this study proposed antecedents to awareness, including; level of fandom, overall season‐ticket holder (STH) satisfaction, perceptions of on‐field performance, live game viewership frequency, televised game viewership frequency, and digital channel interaction frequency. A survey was used to collect data from STHs across three professional sports teams (n = 8,414). Fan recall of charity partners was low with 1.3% recalling three, 3.5% recalling two, and 9.6% able to recall at least one charity partner. Of the antecedents, overall STH satisfaction and frequency of live game viewership were the most influential while, perceptions of on‐field performance returned a significant and negative result. It is advocated sports teams reduce the number of charity partners and charity managers focus communication efforts on more contented STHs who attend live games regularly.
The impact of autobiographical memory on brand retrieval and purchase intention
Authors: Stocchi Lara , Wright Malcolm , Fuller Rachel
Published: January 2021

Autobiographical memory involves mentally reliving past episodes that are personally relevant. Psychology research shows that it has remarkable bearing on one's life, including the accomplishment of tasks, self‐enhancement, self‐preservation and attaining goals. Yet, the understanding of autobiographical memory in consumer behaviour research is much more limited. Accordingly, the present study evaluates the impact of two cognitive mechanisms resulting from personal past‐usage experiences linked to the product category, which are likely to underpin consumers' retrieval of brands from memory and purchase intention. The two cognitive aspects are: the cued recollection of specific autobiographical memories; and the accessibility (in memory) of autobiographical episodes of consumption that form product category knowledge. The empirical results obtained across three online experiments suggest product category knowledge accessible in consumer memory has a greater effect on brand retrieval and purchase intention than the direct recollection of specific autobiographical memories cued by the product category. Perceived importance of choice moderates this effect, which primarily concerns purchase intention. In particular, consistent with prior research on activation confusion, product category knowledge reduces purchase intention, especially for highly familiar (or prototypical) brands. Accordingly, we outline implications for branded communications, and advertising pre‐ and post‐testing.
Multi‐Targeting Tacrine Conjugates with Cholinesterase and Amyloid‐Beta Inhibitory Activities: New Anti‐Alzheimer's Agents
Authors: Hiremathad Asha , Chaves Sílvia , Keri Rangappa S.
Published: January 2021

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a severe age dependent and chronic problem with no cure so far. The available treatments are temporary, acting over short period of time. The main pathological hallmark of the disease includes cholinergic dysfunction, oxidative stress, accumulation of Aβ fibrils and tau tangles. In context with the multi‐factorial nature of this disease, two different series of molecules were developed to hit the multifactorial disease targets. Mainly, the molecules were designed to inhibit the AChE and aggregation of Aβ, and also oxidative damage. Two novel series of TAC‐fenbufen/menbutone conjugated molecules were designed, synthesized and bio‐assayed. All compounds showed inhibition capacity towards AChE, Aβ aggregation and moderate to good radical scavenging capacity. Particularly, five TAC‐menbutone molecules showed improved AChE and Aβ aggregation inhibition capacity compared to TAC‐fenbufen conjugated molecules. Overall, these novel series of molecules may be potential drug lead molecules in the treatment of AD.
Cu‐doped Ni3S2 Interlaced Nanosheet Arrays as High‐efficiency Electrocatalyst Boosting the Alkaline Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Ding Yangyang , Du Xiaoqiang , Zhang Xiaoshuang
Published: January 2021

Ni3S2 has been widely reported as an effective electrochemical catalyst for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). However, the electrochemical activity of the cathode reduction reaction needs to be further improved due to the drawback of strong S−H bond interaction on the surface of Ni3S2. Herein, a series of non‐precious metal Cu element doped Ni3S2 materials were prepared on the Nickel foam support (Cu−Ni3S2/NF) though a two‐step hydrothermal method. Moreover, we optimized the performance of the catalyst by adjusting the molar amount of doped copper ion in the first hydrothermal process. When the molar ratio of copper ion and nickel ion is 1 : 4, the Cu−Ni3S2/NF‐1/4 material with independent and clustered rose‐shaped cross‐nanosheet arrays structure have been used as a highly efficient electrochemical hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) catalyst. In HER process, the Cu−Ni3S2/NF‐1/4 material drives the current densities of 10 mA cm−2 and 50 mA cm−2 under low overpotentials of 92 mV and 256 mV respectively, while Ni3S2/NF needs 210 mV and 397 mV to reach the same current densities. Density functional theory (DFT) calculation shows that the superior electrocatalytic activities are attributed to optimized water adsorption energy and enhanced electrical conductivity. The stability of catalyst was tested in 1 M KOH for 12 hours by chronoamperometry, indicating the current density has no an apparent attenuation.
Beyond Active Site Design: A Surfactant‐Free Toolbox Approach for Optimized Supported Nanoparticle Catalysts
Authors: Quinson Jonathan , Kunz Sebastian , Arenz Matthias
Published: January 2021

Developing new catalysts with superior activity, stability, and selectivity is the ultimate research goal in catalysis. However, a complete understanding of what makes new or already known supported catalysts performant is still challenging. In addition to a careful design of the catalytically active phase, properties such as the interparticle distance, the location of the active phase in the outer or inner pores of the support material, as well as preparation steps such as washing, storage conditions, and conditioning can severely affect the observed performance. With the example of supported Pt nanoparticles (NPs), it is illustrated how systematic studies, where only one experimental parameter is changed at a time independently of the others, provide detailed insights into supported heterogeneous catalyst design. To perform such studies, an integral toolbox approach based on a surfactant‐free colloidal synthesis of NPs is developed. This approach takes into account not only the design and production of the catalytically active phase but considers all steps prior to testing the catalyst. The toolbox is well suited to flag and address pitfalls beyond the active phase design, to study and optimize supported precious metal NPs for energy and chemical conversion processes.
Rh(III)‐catalyzed C6‐selective Acylmethylation and Carboxymethylation of 2‐Pyridones with Diazo Compounds
Authors: Wang Xinyu , He Zhongyu , Xu Xin , Zhao Haoqiang , Pan Yixiao , Li Huanrong , Xu Lijin
Published: January 2021

Chelation‐assisted C6‐selective acylmethylation and carboxymethylation of 2‐pyridones with diazo carbonyl compounds under [Cp*RhCl2]2/AgSbF6 catalysis have been developed. Deesterificative C6‐acylmethylation of 2‐pyridones with diazo tert‐butyl ester compounds proceeds effectively with the use of HOAc additive and hexafluoroisopropanol (HFIP) solvent, whereas switching to NaOAc additive and MeOH solvent enables efficient deacylative C6‐carboxymethylation of 2‐pyridones with alkyl 2‐diazo‐3‐oxobutanoates. The procedures are characterized by excellent regioselectivity, high efficiency, broad substrate scope, wide functional group compatibility and gram‐scalability. Preliminary mechanistic experiments are conducted to gain insights into the reaction mechanisms.
Multiple‐Output Artificial Neural Network to Estimate Solid Cycle Times in Conical Spouted Beds
Authors: Estiati Idoia , Atxutegi Aitor , Altzibar Haritz , Freire Fabio B. , Aguado Roberto , Olazar Martin
Published: January 2021

Knowledge of cycle times is essential to design spouted beds. Although experiments for determining cycle times are time‐consuming, there is hardly any mechanistic or empirical model for their prediction. Two types of artificial neural networks, namely, single‐ and multiple‐output ones, have been developed to estimate particle cycle times in conical spouted beds. They provide satisfactory cycle time predictions under different configurations. A comparison of single‐output neural networks with multiple‐output ones proves that, although the former fit slightly better the experimental data, the latter provide a reasonable prediction of all cycle times, and therefore, only one neural network is sufficient for their prediction. The maximum cycle is the one of highest sensitivity to all the parameters analyzed.
Multiphase Particle in Cell Simulations of Fluidized Beds: Studies on Bubble Rise Velocity and Minimum Fluidization Velocity
Authors: Pal Kanjakha , Theuerkauf Jörg
Published: January 2021

Multiphase particle in a cell simulation of fluidized beds for different Geldart group particles (A, B and D) were investigated. The minimum fluidization velocities predicted by the Barracuda Virtual Reactor® were compared and contrasted by theoretical predictions with the Wen‐Yu model. The optimal drag force coefficients based on the Wen‐Yu model for MP‐PIC simulations was further evaluated for different particle sizes and densities for Group A catalysts. A neural network model was constructed for the optimal model constants as a function of the explanatory variables for group A catalysts. This work illustrates the importance of choosing the correct value for the drag force coefficients to obtain realistic simulation results for fluidized beds. This work clearly demonstrates that the Barracuda simulation results are very sensitive to the value of the Wen‐Yu parameter. Using multiphase particle in cell simulations in conjunction with a neural network model can be directly used in further studies as a rapid tool to get the correct values for realistic drag force coefficients based on the Wen‐Yu model.
Synthesis of Li4Ti5O12 negative electrode material in a fluidized bed thermogravimetric analyzer
Authors: Tao Ling , Samih Said , Sauriol Pierre , Chaouki Jamal
Published: January 2021

Spinel lithium titanate (Li4Ti5O12) is the most promising negative electrode material for energy storage which can be applied in lithium‐ion batteries lithium‐sulphur batteries, and supercapacitors. However, the high cost of Li4Ti5O12 powder and its high molecular weight limit its application due to the complicated synthesis process. In this work, a facile solid‐state reaction in a fluidized bed reactor was used for the first time to synthesize spinel Li4Ti5O12 using lithium carbonate and titanium oxide as solid reactants. We investigated the fluidization behaviour of starting materials and studied different synthesis temperature in fluidized and fixed beds. X‐ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy were employed to characterize the samples. The results demonstrate that the mixture of Li2CO3 and TiO2 had a complete fluidization velocity of 0.88 cm/s and showed good fluidization behaviour. Pure spinel Li4Ti5O12 was obtained via solid‐state reaction in a fluidized bed reactor at 800°C for 30 minutes, which is much lower than a conventional solid‐state reaction in a fixed bed or muffle furnace. By this novel method, the micro‐sized Li4Ti5O12 particles (6‐8 μm) have hollow porous structure composed of nano‐sized particles (<100 nm) synthesized. According to the experimental results, we proposed a different reaction mechanism for the synthesis of Li4Ti5O12 in fluidized beds which explains how the Li2CO3 and TiO2 react to form hollow lithium titanate nano‐structured micro‐particles in fluidized beds. The bulk density, surface area, and bulk conductivity of the synthesized Li4Ti5O12 are 3240 kg/m3, 4.6 m2/g, and 3.90 × 10−6 S/cm, respectively.
A simple numerical method to simulate the flow through filter media: Investigation of different fibre allocation algorithms
Authors: de Luca Xavier Augusto Liliana , Tronville Paolo , Gonçalves José A. S. , Lopes Gabriela C.
Published: January 2021

Flow patterns and pressure‐drop through three fine‐fibre air filter media were simulated using the lattice Boltzmann method. The geometry for the flow domain was two‐dimensional, with fibres having truncated log‐normal diameter distributions matching SEM photograph measurements on the actual media. The influence of the strategy in positioning the fibres inside the computational domain on the pressure drop of the filter media was investigated. Two different schemes were proposed to position the fibres into a cross section of the filter medium: a random distribution algorithm and the Mitchell's best candidate algorithm. Furthermore, no‐slip and free‐slip boundary conditions were tested for the fluid‐fibre interaction. The comparison between numerical and experimental data shows that the random allocation of fibres better predicted the filter media behaviour. Simulated data suggest that the free‐slip boundary condition must be used when studying the interaction of the fluid with small fibres similar to the size of the fibres used in this study. This study allowed the development of a simple strategy to estimate the pressure drop of a filter medium by having little information of its physical structure, such as solid fraction and diameter distribution.
Study on the preparation, characterization, and electrocatalytic performance of Gd‐doped PbO2 electrodes
Authors: Diao Yuhan , Wei Feng , Zhang Liman , Yang Yang , Yao Yingwu
Published: January 2021

In this work, Gd‐doped PbO2 electrodes were prepared by electrodeposition procedure. In the accelerated life test, the service life of Gd‐doped PbO2 electrodes are more stable and durable. Scanning electron microscope and x‐ray diffraction tests reveal that Gd‐doped PbO2 electrodes have more compact structure and finer grain size. Electrochemical measurements and fluorescence experiments show that Gd‐doped PbO2 electrodes have higher oxygen evolution overpotential, a larger electrochemically active surface area, and stronger ability to generate hydroxyl radicals. The electrocatalytic performance of the Gd‐doped PbO2 electrode for the electrochemical degradation of thiamethoxam was studied. The degradation process accorded with pseudo‐first‐order kinetics, with higher thiamethoxam and total organic carbon removal capabilities, as well as higher mineralization current efficiency and lower energy consumption. In the degradation process, it has favourable reusability. The experimental results demonstrate that Gd‐doped PbO2 electrodes have an excellent treatment effect and a wider application prospect in the field of pollutant degradation.
An approximate Bayesian inference on propensity score estimation under unit nonresponse
Authors: Sang Hejian , Kwang Kim Jae
Published: January 2021

Nonresponse weighting adjustment using the response propensity score is a popular tool for handling unit nonresponse. Statistical inference after the nonresponse weighting adjustment is an important problem and Taylor linearization method is often used to reflect the effect of estimating the propensity score weights. In this article, we propose an approximate Bayesian approach to handle unit nonresponse with parametric model assumptions on the response probability, but without model assumptions for the outcome variable. The proposed Bayesian method is calibrated to the frequentist inference in that the credible region obtained from the posterior distribution asymptotically matches to the frequentist confidence interval obtained from the Taylor linearization method. The proposed Bayesian method is also extended to incorporate the auxiliary information from full sample. Results from limited simulation studies confirm the validity of the proposed methods. The proposed method is applied to data from a Korean longitudinal survey.
Performance of the coronary calcium score in an outpatient chest pain clinic and strategies for risk stratification
Authors: Huang Weiting , Lim Leon Ming Hsien , Aurangzeb Amirzeb S/O. , Wong Cheney Jianlin , Koh Natalie Si Ya , Huang Zijuan , Teo Hooi Khee , Chua Terrance Siang Jin , Tan Swee Yaw
Published: January 2021

Background

Coronary artery calcium score (CAC) is an objective marker of atherosclerosis. The primary aim is to assess CAC as a risk classifier in stable coronary artery disease (CAD).

Hypothesis

CAC improves CAD risk prediction, compared to conventional risk scoring, even in the absence of cardiovascular risk factor inputs.

Methods

Outpatients presenting to a cardiology clinic (n = 3518) were divided into two cohorts: derivation (n = 2344 patients) and validation (n = 1174 patients). Adding logarithmic transformation of CAC, we built two logistic regression models: Model 1 with chest pain history and risk factors and Model 2 including chest pain history only without risk factors simulating patients with undiagnosed comorbidities. The CAD I Consortium Score (CCS) was the conventional reference risk score used. The primary outcome was the presence of coronary artery disease defined as any epicardial artery stenosis≥50% on CT coronary angiogram.

Results

Area under curve (AUC) of CCS in our validation cohort was 0.80. The AUC of Models 1 and 2 were significantly improved at 0.88 (95%CI 0.86–0.91) and 0.87 (95%CI 0.84–0.90), respectively. Integrated discriminant improvement was >15% for both models. At a pre‐specified cut‐off of ≤10% for excluding coronary artery disease, the sensitivity and specificity were 89.3% and 74.7% for Model 1, and 88.1% and 71.8% for Model 2.

Conclusion

CAC helps improve risk classification in patients with chest pain, even in the absence of prior risk factor screening.
Optimizing resource scheduling based on extended particle swarm optimization in fog computing environments
Authors: Potu Narayana , Jatoth Chandrashekar , Parvataneni Premchand
Published: January 2021

Cloud computing (CC) allows on‐demand networks to access central computer resources, such as servers, databases, storage, and network services. While clouds can handle enormous amounts of data, they still encounter problems due to insufficient cloud resources. Therefore, another computing model, called fog computing, was introduced. However, the inefficient scheduling of user tasks in fog computing can cause more delays than that in CC. To address the issues of resource utilization, response time, and latency, optimal and efficient techniques are required for the scheduling strategies. In this study, we developed an extended particle swarm optimization (EPSO) algorithm with an extra gradient method to optimize the task scheduling problem in cloud‐fog environments. Our primary aim is to improve the efficiency of resources and minimize the time taken to complete tasks. We conducted extensive experiments on the iFogSim simulator in terms of makespan and total cost. We compared the performance of the proposed EPSO method with that of other traditional techniques, such as ideal PSO and modified PSO; the results demonstrated that EPSO achieved a makespan of 342.53 s. Thus, it can be concluded that the performance of the proposed method is comparable to that of other approaches.
Add‐on effect of PSORI‐CM01 to topical calcipotriol for moderate psoriasis vulgaris: A multi‐center, randomized, double‐blind pilot study
Authors: Parker Shefton , Zhang Anthony Lin , Zhang Claire Shuiqing , Goodman Greg , Wen Zehuai , Yan Yuhong , Yao Danni , Wu Huimei , Deng Hao , Lu Chuanjian , Xue Charlie Changli
Published: January 2021

Background

Mild‐moderate psoriasis vulgaris is a common dermatological autoimmune condition with limited conventional therapeutic options. Safe and effective adjunct therapies to topical non‐steroidal antipsoriatic therapy are needed. The oral Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) formula PSORI‐CM01 has been evidenced potential antipsoriatic pharmacological activity. This article reports a pilot study which was designed as a double‐blinded, placebo‐controlled randomized controlled trial (RCT) evaluating the effects of PSORI‐CM01 when added to topical calcipotriol cream.

Methods

People with moderate psoriasis vulgaris were randomized to receive oral PSORI‐CM01 or placebo administered for 12 weeks in combination with calcipotriol. The primary clinical outcome was the change of psoriasis area severity index (PASI) score at week 12 and week 24. Secondary clinical outcomes were PASI75, PASI50, relapse rate, change in body surface area, dermatology life quality index and Skindex29, and adverse events (AEs). Participants’ satisfaction and willingness to repeat were also assessed.

Results

The pilot study was conducted in Australia and China, 29 participants were randomized with 26 completed the treatment and follow‐up. Participants’ baseline basic characteristics were comparable. No between‐group statistical significance was found on pre‐defined clinical outcome measures, although there seemed a trend of treatment effects favoring the combination of PSORI‐CM01 with calcipotriol. Frequency and severity of AEs were similar between two groups, with no severe AEs reported.

Conclusions

The design and duration of the study appears feasible. A proper powered RCT with slight adjustments in the methods is needed to reveal the add‐on effects of oral CHM PSORI‐CM01. The experience and results from this pilot study will contribute to the refine of objectives and design of a future study, and assist the sample size calculation for the full‐scale RCT.
Diagnostic utility of p16 immunocytochemistry in metastatic cervical lymph nodes in head and neck cancers
Authors: Kapoor Dimple , Handa Uma , Kundu Reetu , Das Arjun
Published: January 2021

Background

Human papilloma virus (HPV) testing can be useful in work‐up of patients presenting with cervical node metastasis, suspected to be of head and neck origin as HPV positive tumors show better response to therapy. The current study was planned to detect HPV in aspirates from metastatic cervical nodes using p16 immunocytochemistry in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Further correlation of HPV status between node metastasis and primary tumor was done.

Methods

The prospective study included 50 patients diagnosed as metastatic SCC in cervical nodes on fine needle aspiration with either known head and neck primary or primary detected post cytodiagnosis. Immunostaining for p16 was carried out on both smears and tissue sections.

Results

Forty‐three patients were male and seven were female. Age of the patients ranged from 35 to 80 years. Primary sites of HNSCC were oropharynx (25), oral cavity (14), and larynx (11). Immunocytochemistry for p16 on smears showed positivity in 28 cases. Immunohistochemistry for p16 in primary tumors was positive in 34. There was substantial agreement between p16 immunocytochemistry and immunohistochemistry (Kappa value: 0.823). The sensitivity of p16 immunocytochemistry for the detection of HPV in metastatic HNSCC was 82.4% while the specificity was 100%. The positive and negative predictive values were 100% and 72.7%, respectively.

Conclusions

P16 immunocytochemistry in HNSCC metastatic to cervical node mirrors the HPV status of the corresponding primary tumor. Hence in tumors of unknown origin presenting as cervical node metastasis, p16 immunocytochemistry can be employed for localization of the primary.
Androgenetic alopecia: Hair transplantation surgery update
Authors: Sanabria Baltazar , Fachini Gabriel H. , Ramos Paulo M.
Published: January 2021

Androgenetic alopecia is the main cause of hair loss in men and women and it can have a negative impact on quality of life due to decreased self‐esteem. The possibility of restoration of large areas with natural results is making hair transplantation surgery increasingly popular. Since the first surgeries dissecting the follicular units under the microscope, there has been much advancement in hair transplantation surgery in recent decades. In this review, we discuss the main techniques for harvesting follicular units from the donor area and for implantation. When properly indicated, using appropriate techniques and performed by a trained surgeon, hair transplant surgery can lead to excellent results with highly satisfied patients.
Comparing outcomes of diabetic ketoacidosis hospitalisations in patients with diastolic heart failure: A retrospective propensity matched analysis of the nationwide inpatient sample
Authors: Shaka Hafeez , El‐Amir Zain , Aljadah Michael , Wani Farah , Velazquez Genero , Kichloo Asim
Published: January 2021

Introduction

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a known complication of patients with diabetes mellitus. The aim of this study was to compare the outcomes of patients admitted with a diagnosis of DKA with, and without, diastolic heart failure (DHF).

Methods

This was a population‐based, retrospective, observational study using data from the National Inpatient Sample database for the years 2016 and 2017. The primary outcome was in‐hospital mortality. Secondary outcomes were rates of sepsis, non‐ST elevation myocardial infarctions (NSTEMI), acute kidney failure, acute respiratory failure (ARF), deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, mean length of hospital stay (LOS) and total hospital charges (THC).

Results

There was no statistically significant difference for the adjusted odds for in‐hospital mortality between patients with and without DHF (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 0.55, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.28–1.08, p = 0.081). Patients with DKA and DHF had increased odds of developing an NSTEMI (aOR: 1.31, 95% CI: 1.01–1.70, p = 0.045) or ARF (aOR: 1.82, 95% CI: 1.38–2.40, p < 0.001) during the same admission compared to patients without DHF. Patients with DKA and DHF also had an increased mean THC (6500 CI: 1900–11,200, p = 0.0006) in US dollars and increased LOS (0.7, 95% CI: 0.2–1.3, p = 0.011) in days when compared to patients without DHF.

Conclusions

Patients with DKA showed no statistically significant difference in mortality if they did or did not have a secondary diagnosis of DHF within the same admission.
Level and spatial pattern of overstory retention impose trade‐offs for regenerating and retained trees
Authors: Halpern Charles B. , Urgenson Lauren S.
Published: January 2021

Variable retention (VR) has been adopted globally as an alternative to more intensive forms of regeneration harvest. By retaining live trees within harvest units, VR seeks balance among the commodity, ecological, and aesthetic values of managed forests. Achieving these multiple, often competing objectives requires an understanding of how level and spatial pattern of retention shape the abundance, growth, and mortality of regenerating and retained trees. Using long‐term (18–19 yr) data from a regional‐scale VR experiment, we explore the individual and interactive effects of retention level (15% vs. 40% of initial basal area) and pattern (dispersed vs. aggregated) on the post‐harvest dynamics of forests of differing structure and seral composition. Level and pattern of retention imposed trade‐offs for the density and growth of regenerating trees (≥0.1 m tall, <5 cm dbh) and ingrowth (trees attaining 5 cm during the study). Greater retention led to greater density of late‐seral regeneration, but lower density of early‐seral ingrowth, and slower growth of late‐seral ingrowth. Dispersed retention enhanced the density of early‐ and late‐seral regeneration (compared to aggregated treatments), but reduced the growth of early‐seral ingrowth. We also observed trade‐offs for retained trees. Lower retention enhanced the growth of smaller trees (<25 cm dbh), particularly in dispersed settings, but reduced the survival of larger trees, which were more susceptible to windthrow. Greater retention reduced the growth, but enhanced the survival of smaller trees. Pattern imposed similar trade‐offs, with dispersed retention enhancing growth, but reducing survival of small trees. Finally, level and pattern resulted in trade‐offs for productivity of regenerating vs. retained‐tree cohorts. Ingrowth productivity was greater at lower retention and in aggregated treatments; retained‐tree productivity was greater at higher retention and in dispersed treatments. Our results provide a unique, long‐term perspective on the sensitivity of tree regeneration, growth, and mortality to key structural elements of VR systems. Strong responses to level and pattern of retention produce trade‐offs for different ecological or resource objectives. Balancing these objectives may require the combined use of aggregates, dispersed retention, and clearings, to mimic the spatial heterogeneity of habitats, physical structures, and resource conditions that are produced by natural disturbances.
Response of lion demography and dynamics to the loss of preferred larger prey
Authors: Vinks Milan A. , Creel Scott , Schuette Paul , Becker Matthew S. , Rosenblatt Elias , Sanguinetti Carolyn , Banda Kambwiri , Goodheart Ben , Young‐Overton Kim , Stevens Xia , Chifunte Clive , Midlane Neil , Simukonda Chuma
Published: January 2021

Large carnivores are experiencing range contraction and population declines globally. Prey depletion due to illegal offtake is considered a major contributor, but the effects of prey depletion on large carnivore demography are rarely tested. We measured African lion density and tested the factors that affect survival using mark–recapture models fit to six years of data from known individuals in Kafue National Park (KNP), Zambia. KNP is affected by prey depletion, particularly for large herbivores that were preferred prey for KNP lions a half‐century ago. This provides a unique opportunity to test whether variables that explain local prey density also affect lion survival. Average lion density within our study area was 3.43 individuals/100 km2 (95% CI, 2.79–4.23), which was much lower than lion density reported for another miombo ecosystem with similar vegetation structure and rainfall that was less affected by prey depletion. Despite this, comparison to other lion populations showed that age‐ and sex‐specific survival rates for KNP lions were generally good, and factors known to correlate with local prey density had small effects on lion survival. In contrast, recruitment of cubs was poor and average pride size was small. In particular, the proportion of the population comprised of second‐year cubs was low, indicating that few cubs are recruited into the subadult age class. Our findings suggest that low recruitment might be a better signal of low prey density than survival. Thus, describing a lion population’s age structure in addition to average pride size may be a simple and effective method of initially evaluating whether a lion population is affected by prey depletion. These dynamics should be evaluated for other lion populations and other large carnivore species. Increased resource protection and reducing the underlying drivers of prey depletion are urgent conservation needs for lions and other large carnivores as their conservation is increasingly threatened by range contraction and population declines.
Invasive Impatiens glandulifera: A driver of changes in native vegetation?
Authors: Bieberich Judith , Müller Stefanie , Feldhaar Heike , Lauerer Marianne
Published: January 2021

Biological invasions are one of the major threats to biodiversity worldwide and contribute to changing community patterns and ecosystem processes. However, it is often not obvious whether an invader is the “driver” causing ecosystem changes or a “passenger” which is facilitated by previous ecosystem changes. Causality of the impact can be demonstrated by experimental removal of the invader or introduction into a native community. Using such an experimental approach, we tested whether the impact of the invasive plant Impatiens glandulifera on native vegetation is causal, and whether the impact is habitat‐dependent. We conducted a field study comparing invaded and uninvaded plots with plots from which I. glandulifera was removed and plots where I. glandulifera was planted within two riparian habitats, alder forests and meadows. A negative impact of planting I. glandulifera and a concurrent positive effect of removal on the native vegetation indicated a causal effect of I. glandulifera on total native biomass and growth of Urtica dioica. Species α‐diversity and composition were not affected by I. glandulifera manipulations. Thus, I. glandulifera had a causal but low effect on the native vegetation. The impact depended slightly on habitat as only the effect of I. glandulifera planting on total biomass was slightly stronger in alder forests than meadows. We suggest that I. glandulifera is a “back‐seat driver” of changes, which is facilitated by previous ecosystem changes but is also a driver of further changes. Small restrictions of growth of the planted I. glandulifera and general association of I. glandulifera with disturbances indicate characteristics of a back‐seat driver. For management of I. glandulifera populations, this requires habitat restoration along with removal of the invader.
NGSpeciesID: DNA barcode and amplicon consensus generation from long‐read sequencing data
Authors: Sahlin Kristoffer , Lim Marisa C. W. , Prost Stefan
Published: January 2021

Third‐generation sequencing technologies, such as Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT) and Pacific Biosciences (PacBio), have gained popularity over the last years. These platforms can generate millions of long‐read sequences. This is not only advantageous for genome sequencing projects, but also advantageous for amplicon‐based high‐throughput sequencing experiments, such as DNA barcoding. However, the relatively high error rates associated with these technologies still pose challenges for generating high‐quality consensus sequences. Here, we present NGSpeciesID, a program which can generate highly accurate consensus sequences from long‐read amplicon sequencing technologies, including ONT and PacBio. The tool includes clustering of the reads to help filter out contaminants or reads with high error rates and employs polishing strategies specific to the appropriate sequencing platform. We show that NGSpeciesID produces consensus sequences with improved usability by minimizing preprocessing and software installation and scalability by enabling rapid processing of hundreds to thousands of samples, while maintaining similar consensus accuracy as current pipelines.
Sympatric genome size variation and hybridization of four oak species as determined by flow cytometry genome size variation and hybridization
Authors: Wei GaoMing , Li Xuan , Fang YanMing
Published: January 2021

The Quercus species serve as a powerful model for studying introgression in relation to species boundaries and adaptive processes. Coexistence of distant relatives, or lack of coexistence of closely relative oak species, introgression may play a role. In the current study, four closely related oak species were found in Zijinshan, China. We generated a comprehensive genome size (GS) database for 120 individuals of four species using flow cytometry‐based approaches. We examined GS variability within and among the species and hybridization events among the four species. The mean GSs of Q. acutissima, Q. variabilis, Q. fabri, and Q. serrata var. brevipetiolata were estimated to be 1.87, 1.92, 1.97, and 1.97 pg, respectively. The intraspecific and interspecific variations of GS observed among the four oak species indicated adaptation to the environment. Hybridization occurred both within and between the sections. A hybrid offspring was produced from Q. fabri and Q. variabilis, which belonged to different sections. The GS evolutionary pattern for hybrid species was expansion. Hybridization between the sections may be affected by habitat disturbance. This study increases our understanding of the evolution of GS in Quercus and will help establish guidelines for the ecological protection of oak trees.
Effects of hydropeaking on the attached eggs of a rheophilic cyprinid species
Authors: Bartoň Daniel , Bretón Felipe , Blabolil Petr , Souza Allan T. , Vejřík Lukáš , Sajdlová Zuzana , Kolařík Tomáš , Kubečka Jan , Šmejkal Marek
Published: January 2021

Human‐induced changes in the hydrological regimes of lotic waters such as hydropeaking have significant negative impacts on riverine life. However, the impacts of dynamic changes in water flow on adhesive fish eggs are not very well known. We focused on the effects of hydropeaking on the spawning ground of a rheophilic cyprinid fish, the asp (Leuciscus aspius). We tested whether a sudden increase in water velocity caused by hydropeaking may have negative effect on the adhesive eggs by the combination of field observations and laboratory experiments. The main objectives of the study were to (i) investigate abiotic characteristics of an asp spawning ground, (ii) monitor egg densities in relation to hydropeaking events and (iii) test detachment rates of the asp eggs in laboratory conditions in relation to water velocity. The asp spawning ground was associated with shallow water depths (0.2–0.4 m) and flowing water (0.1–0.4 m s−1) during base flow. The water velocity that occurred on the spawning ground during the hydropeaking event was measured to be from 0.7–1.2 m s−1. Asp eggs nearly disappeared from the spawning ground before their hatching time probably due to several hydropeaking events. The laboratory experiments showed the significant dependency of egg detachment rates on the water velocity and substrate type with a critical value of 0.7 m s−1. Our data suggested that eggs may be negatively impacted by flow alterations. Avoiding hydropeaking or keeping water velocity below critical values is recommended for the management of rheophilous fish spawning grounds.
Atomic Layer Coated Al2O3 on Nitrogen Doped Vertical Graphene Nanosheets for High Performance Sodium Ion Batteries
Authors: Wu Zhiheng , Zhang Xiangdan , Deng Lijun , Zhang Yongshang , Wang Zhuo , Shen Yonglong , Shao Guosheng
Published: January 2021

Heteroatom doped graphene materials are considered as promising anode for high‐performance sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs). Defective and porous structure especially with large specific surface area is generally considered as a feasible strategy to boost reaction kinetics; however, the unwanted side reaction at the anode hinders the practical application of SIBs. In this work, a precisely controlled Al2O3 coated nitrogen doped vertical graphene nanosheets (NVG) anode material has been proposed, which exhibits excellent sodium storage capacity and cycling stability. The ultrathin Al2O3 coating on the NVG is considered to help construct an advantageous interface between electrode and electrolyte, both alleviating the electrolyte decomposition and enhancing sodium adsorption ability. As a result, the optimal Al2O3 coated NVG materials delivers a high reversible capacity (835.0 mAh g−1) and superior cycling stability (retention of 92.3% after 5000 cycles). This work demonstrates a new way to design graphene‐based anode materials for high‐performance sodium‐ion batteries.