bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interactive effects of hydrology and fire drive differential biogeochemical legacies in subtropical wetlands
Authors: Nocentini Andrea , Kominoski John S. , Sah Jay
Published: March 2021

Fire is an important component of many ecosystems, as it impacts biodiversity, biogeochemical cycles, and primary production. In wetlands, fire interacts with hydrologic regimes and other ecosystem characteristics to determine soil carbon (C) gains or losses and rates of nutrient cycling. However, how legacies of fire interact with wetland hydroperiod to affect soil chemistry is uncertain. We used the Florida Everglades as a model landscape to study how fire regimes, hydroperiod, and soil types collectively contribute to long‐term C, nitrogen (N), and phosphorus (P) concentrations and stoichiometric mass ratios (C:N, C:P, N:P) in both short‐ and long‐hydroperiod subtropical wetlands that consist of marl and peat soils, respectively. We used fire records from 1948 to 2018 and hydroperiod from 1991 to 2003, and analyzed these data together with soil chemistry data collected during two extensive field surveys (n = 539) across different ecosystem and soil types throughout Everglades National Park. We also analyzed macrophyte and periphyton P concentrations (n = 150) collected from 2003 to 2016 in fire‐impacted wetland sites. Hydroperiod was the main driver of soil C concentration in both marl and peat soils, but fire played a substantial role in nutrient cycling. Particularly in marl soils, soil P concentrations were affected by the absence of fire. In the first decade post‐fire, we observed an amplification of P cycling with decreased soil C:P ratios by 95% and N:P ratios by 45%. After more than a decade post‐fire, soil P became increasingly depleted (41% lower). Macrophyte P tissue concentration was 50% higher only in the first year post‐fire, whereas periphyton P did not change. By recycling nutrients and through removal of litter accumulation, which forms a physical obstacle to photosynthesis, fire likely helps maintain high levels of macrophyte aboveground live biomass as well. Given its substantial effect on nutrient cycling, we advocate for fire management that uses fire return intervals that minimize depletion of soil nutrients and promote positive feedbacks to productivity in wetland ecosystems. In addition, coordinated management of fire return intervals and wetland hydroperiod can be used to set priorities for wetland soil nutrient concentrations and ratios.
A tale of two hashtags: An examination of moral content of pro‐ and anti‐government tweets in Turkey
Authors: Bayrak Fatih , Alper Sinan
Published: March 2021

During the campaign period of the 2018 Presidential Election in Turkey, there was a burst in the number of tweets posted by both pro‐ and anti‐government Twitter users. Both sides started their own hashtags and reached a total of 2 million tweets in only one day. We analyzed the content of 186,554 tweets from two opposing ideological camps to test the predictions of Moral Foundations Theory, which suggests that liberals and conservatives endorse different moral foundations. We scored each side's level of emphasis on different moral foundations using the Turkish Moral Foundations Dictionary and compared the two groups. Results revealed that the supporters of the conservative government in Turkey were more likely to endorse care, loyalty, and authority foundations of morality, as compared to those who oppose the conservative government. In addition, the general moral emphasis was higher in the tweets of the pro‐government group. Being one of the first studies investigating the moral content of political tweets in a non‐WEIRD context, the current study yields important findings regarding the external validity of the Moral Foundations Theory's predictions in different cultures.
Retracted: Design and performance test on segmented‐differential threshing and separating unit for head‐feed combine harvester
Authors: Tian Liquan , Lin Xue , Xiong Yongsen , Ding Zhao
Published: March 2021

In order to solve the contradiction between incomplete thresh, separation loss, and grain breakage rate during the harvest of super hybrid rice by the conventional threshing and separating unit for the head‐feed combine harvester, the segmented‐differential threshing and separating unit for the head‐feed combine harvester was developed. The unit was mainly composed of a coaxial segmented‐differential threshing drum and rotary concave screen. This paper expounds on the structure and working principle of segmented‐differential threshing and separating unit. With the rotate speed of the segmented‐differential drum, the linear velocity of the rotary concave screen, and the clamping chain speed as the test factors, the grain loss rate, breakage rate, and impurity rate as the performance indicators, three‐factor quadratic regression orthogonal rotation combination design test is performed. This paper analyzes the test results by using the Design‐Expert6.0.10 software, establishes a performance indicator mathematic model of the threshing and separating unit, and determines the optimal working parameter combination. Moreover, this paper performs a contrast test of the segmented‐differential threshing and separating unit to the conventional single‐speed unit, and using MATLAB software to establish a distribution model of threshed materials and make an analysis. Results show that when the rotate speed of low‐speed/high‐speed drum in the segmented‐differential threshing and separating unit was 505/680 r/min, the linear velocity of the rotary concave screen was 1 m/s and the clamping chain speed was 1.26 m/s, the grain loss rate, breakage rate, and impurity rate were 1.94%, 0.21%, and 0.56%, respectively.
Cancer‐Associated Fibroblast‐Mediated Cellular Crosstalk Supports Hepatocellular Carcinoma Progression
Authors: Song Mengjia , He Junyi , Pan Qiu‐Zhong , Yang Jieying , Zhao Jingjing , Zhang Yao‐Jun , Huang Yue , Tang Yan , Wang Qijing , He Jia , Gu Jiamei , Li Yongqiang , Chen Shiping , Zeng Jianxiong , Zhou Zi‐Qi , Yang Chaopin , Han Yulong , Chen Hao , Xiang Tong , Weng De‐Sheng , Xia Jian‐Chuan
Published: March 2021

Background and Aims

Cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are key players in multicellular, stromal‐dependent alterations leading to HCC pathogenesis. However, the intricate crosstalk between CAFs and other components in the tumor microenvironment (TME) remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the cellular crosstalk among CAFs, tumor cells, and tumor‐associated neutrophils (TANs) during different stages of HCC pathogenesis.

Approach and Results

In the HCC‐TME, CAF‐derived cardiotrophin‐like cytokine factor 1 (CLCF1) increased chemokine (C‐X‐C motif) ligand 6 (CXCL6) and TGF‐β secretion in tumor cells, which subsequently promoted tumor cell stemness in an autocrine manner and TAN infiltration and polarization in a paracrine manner. Moreover, CXCL6 and TGF‐β secreted by HCC cells activated extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2 signaling of CAFs to produce more CLCF1, thus forming a positive feedback loop to accelerate HCC progression. Inhibition of ERK1/2 or CLCF1/ciliary neurotrophic factor receptor signaling efficiently impaired CLCF1‐mediated crosstalk among CAFs, tumor cells, and TANs both in vitro and in vivo. In clinical samples, up‐regulation of the CLCF1−CXCL6/TGF‐β axis exhibited a marked correlation with increased cancer stem cells, “N2”‐polarized TANs, tumor stage, and poor prognosis.

Conclusions

This study reveals a cytokine‐mediated cellular crosstalk and clinical network involving the CLCF1−CXCL6/TGF‐β axis, which regulates the positive feedback loop among CAFs, tumor stemness, and TANs, HCC progression, and patient prognosis. These results may support the CLCF1 cascade as a potential prognostic biomarker and suggest that selective blockade of CLCF1/ciliary neurotrophic factor receptor or ERK1/2 signaling could provide an effective therapeutic target for patients with HCC.
Epoxyazadiradione induced apoptosis/anoikis in triple‐negative breast cancer cells, MDA‐MB‐231, by modulating diverse cellular effects
Authors: Lakshmi Sreerenjini , Renjitha Jalaja , B. Sasidhar Somappa , Priya Sulochana
Published: March 2021

Triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) is one of the most aggressive forms of its kind, which accounts for 15–20% of all breast cancers. As this cancer form lacks hormone receptors, targeted chemotherapy remains the best treatment option. Apoptosis and anoikis (detachment‐induced cell death) induction by small molecules can prevent TNBC metastasis to a greater extent. Epoxyazadiradione (EAD) is a limonoid from the neem plant with an anticancer property. Here, we demonstrate that EAD induced mitochondria‐mediated apoptosis and anoikis in TNBC cells (MDA‐MB‐231). Apart from this, it promotes antimigration, inhibition of colony formation, downregulation of MMP‐9 and fibronectin, induction of G2/M phase arrest with downregulation of cyclin A2/cdk2, interference in cellular metabolism, and inhibition of nuclear factor kappa‐B (NF‐kB) nuclear translocation. Moreover, a significant reduction is observed in the expression of EGFR on the plasma membrane and nucleus upon treatment with EAD. Among the diverse cellular effects, anoikis induction, metabolic interference, and downregulation of membrane/nuclear EGFR expression by EAD are reported here for the first time. To summarize, EAD targets multiple cellular events to induce growth arrest in TNBC, and hence can be developed into the best antineoplastic agent in the future.
RETRACTED: Long non‐coding RNA KCNQ1OT1 promotes the progression of gastric cancer via the miR‐145‐5p/ARF6 axis
Authors: Zhong Xiongdong , Wen Xiaoyan , Chen Lei , Gu Ni , Yu Xianchang , Sui Kang
Published: March 2021

Background

Long non‐coding RNA KCNQ1 opposite strand/antisense transcript one gene (KCNQ1OT1) has been reported to be involved in the progression of many types of human cancer, whereas its role in gastric cancer (GC) remains unknown. The present study aimed to investigate the role of KCNQ1OT1 in GC.

Methods

In total, 25 GC tissues and adjacent normal tissues were collected. The expression of KCNQ1OT1, miR‐145‐5p and ARF6 in GC tissues and cell lines was detected by quantitative reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction or western blotting. Bioinformatics analysis and a dual luciferase reporter assay were performed to determine the relationship between KCNQ1OT1 and miR‐145‐5p or miR‐145‐5p and ARF6. Gain‐ and loss‐of function of KCNQ1OT1 and miR‐145‐5p were achieved to confirm their roles in GC cells. Cell counting kit‐8, colony formation and flow cytometry assays were used to evaluate cell viability, proliferation and apoptosis. A xenograft tumor model was established with BGC803 tumor cells transfected with sh‐KCNQ1OT1 or empty vector to determine the role of LINC01089 in vivo.

Results

The expression levels of KCNQ1OT1 were markedly elevated in GC tissues and cells. Knockdown of KCNQ1OT1 inhibited GC tumor growth, reduced GC cell viability and colony formation, and induced GC cell apoptosis. The expression levels of miR‐145‐5p were significantly decreased in GC cells and correlated with the expression of KCNQ1OT1 in GC tumors. Moreover, KCNQ1OT1 directly binds with miR‐145‐5p, which is targeting ARF6. Knockdown of KCNQ1OT1 increased the expression levels of miR‐145‐5p. Inhibition of miR‐145‐5p increased the expression levels of KCNQ1OT1 and also attenuated the effects of knockdown of KCNQ1OT1 on the viability, proliferation and apoptosis of GC cells. In addition, overexpression of miR‐145‐5p reduced GC cell viability and colony formation and induced GC cell apoptosis, whereas overexpression of ARF6 attenuated the effects of overexpression of miR‐145‐5p on GC cell viability, colony formation and apoptosis.

Conclusions

KCNQ1OT1 can promote GC progression through the miR‐145‐5p/ARF6 axis. KCNQ1OT1 may serve as a therapeutic target and a diagnostic biomarker of GC.
Sodium houttuyfonate attenuates dextran sulfate sodium associated colitis precolonized withCandida albicansthrough inducing β-glucan exposure
Authors: Ma Kelong , Chen Mengli , Liu Juanjuan , Ge Yuzhu , Wang Tianming , Wu Daqiang , Yan Guiming , Wang Changzhong , Shao Jing
Published: March 2021

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis is a chronic intestinal disease most likely associated with gut dysbiosis. Candida related mycobiota has been demonstrated to play a role in IBD progression. Traditional Chinese herbal medicines (TCHMs) with antifungal activity have a potential in prevention and treatment of fungi-related IBD. Sodium houttuyfonate (SH) is a promising anti-Candida TCHMs. In this study, a dextran sulfate sodium induced colitis model with Candida albicans precolonization is established. SH gavage can significantly decrease the fungal burdens in feces and colon tissues, reduce disease activity index score, elongate colon length, and attenuate colonic damages. Moreover, SH markedly inhibits the levels of anti-Saccharomyces cerevisiae antibodies, β-glucan, and proinflammatory cytokine (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α), and increases anti-inflammatory factor IL-10 level in serum and colon tissue. Further experiments demonstrate that SH could induce β-glucan exposure, priming intestinal macrophages to get rid of colonized C. albicans through the collaboration of Dectin-1 and TLR2/4. With the decreased fungal burden, the protein levels of Dectin-1, TLR2, TLR4, and NF-κBp65 are fallen back, indicating the primed macrophages calm down and the colitis is alleviated. Collectively, these results manifest that SH can attenuate C. albicans associated colitis via β-glucan exposure, deepening our understanding of TCHMs in the prevention and treatment of fungi associated IBD.
Immunotherapeutic effect of adenovirus encoding antimicrobial peptides in experimental pulmonary tuberculosis
Authors: Ramos-Espinosa Octavio , Mata-Espinosa Dulce , Francisco-Cruz Alejandro , López-Torres Manuel Othoniel , Hernández-Bazán Sujhey , Barrios-Payán Jorge , Marquina-Castillo Brenda , Carretero Marta , del Río Marcela , Hernández-Pando Rogelio
Published: March 2021

As components of the innate immune response, antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) efficiently contribute to infection control and maintenance of a latent state in pulmonary tuberculosis (TB). As a therapeutic strategy, the administration of recombinant AMPs could be limited by enzymatic degradation and high production costs. Likewise, strategies based on the induction of AMPs have generated controversial results. In this study, 2 recombinant type-5 adenoviruses (Ad) expressing the human β-defensin 3 (HβD3) or cathelicidin (LL37) were assessed in a murine pulmonary TB model. Mice infected with either a high dose of a drug-sensitive (H37Rv) or a multidrug-resistant (MDR) strain of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) were treated with a single administration of AdHβD3, AdLL37, AdGFP (control vector expressing a green fluorescent protein), or saline solution (SS). Lungs were obtained to determine the bacterial burden, histologic damage, and cytokine expression at different time points. Mice treated with AdHβD3 or AdLL37 showed significantly lower bacterial load and pneumonia, and higher proinflammatory cytokine expression than the control groups AdGFP and SS. A synergistic therapeutic effect could be observed when first- or second-line antibiotics (ABs) were administered with adenoviral therapy in animals infected with H37Rv or MDR strains, respectively. Adenovirus-delivered AMP's administration constitutes a promising adjuvant therapy for current anti-TB drugs by enhancing a protective immune response and potentially reducing current AB regimes' duration.
Evaluation of Carotid Artery Elasticity in Early Stage of Kawasaki Disease by Two‐Dimensional Speckle Tracking Imaging
Authors: Yang Guiming , Xu Qiuqin , Hou Cui , Wang Hui , Ding Yueyue , Gu Peipei , Chen Long , Tang Yunjia , Chen Ye , Sun Ling , Lv Haitao
Published: March 2021

Objectives

Children with Kawasaki disease (KD) often develop impaired arterial function. The aim of the study was to assess the feasibility and efficacy of two‐dimensional speckle tracking technique (2DSTI) for the evaluation of carotid artery elasticity in children with early‐stage KD.

Methods

Children with KD (n = 97), age and sex‐matched children with fever (n = 18), and healthy controls (n = 24) were included. Children with KD were subsequently divided into a coronary artery lesion group (CAL group, 27 cases) and a noncoronary artery lesion group (nCAL group, 70 cases) based on the results of echocardiography. The carotid circumferential peak strain (CCS) and carotid intima‐media thickness (CIMT) for the children in each group were measured, and the laboratory indicators for each group were collected.

Results

The CCS of children with KD was lower than that of children with fever and healthy controls (P = .001 and .008), whereas CIMT was not significantly different among the groups. Moreover, the CCS of children in the CAL group was lower than that of children in the nCAL group and healthy controls (P = .001 and .000, respectively), whereas the CIMT of children in the CAL group was higher than that of children in the nCAL group (P = .014). In children with KD, CCS was negatively correlated with C‐reactive protein (CRP) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (r = −.419, P = .001; and r = −.305, P = .003). However, CCS was negatively correlated with CRP (r = −.508, P = .007) but not ALT (r = −.176, P = .379) in children in the CAL group.

Conclusion

CCS determined based on 2DSTI can reflect changes in the carotid artery elasticity function in the early stage of KD.
Type 2 Diabetes as a Determinant of Parkinson's Disease Risk and Progression
Authors: Chohan Harneek , Senkevich Konstantin , Patel Radhika K. , Bestwick Jonathan P. , Jacobs Benjamin M. , Bandres Ciga Sara , Gan‐Or Ziv , Noyce Alastair J.
Published: March 2021

Background

Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and Parkinson's disease (PD) are prevalent diseases that affect an aging population. Previous systematic reviews and meta‐analyses have explored the relationship between diabetes and the risk of PD, but the results have been conflicting.

Objective

The objective was to investigate T2DM as a determinant of PD through a meta‐analysis of observational and genetic summary data.

Methods

A systematic review and meta‐analysis of observational studies was undertaken by searching 6 databases. We selected the highest‐quality studies investigating the association of T2DM with PD risk and progression. We then used Mendelian randomization (MR) to investigate the causal effects of genetic liability toward T2DM on PD risk and progression, using summary data derived from genome‐wide association studies.

Results

In the observational part of the study, pooled effect estimates showed that T2DM was associated with an increased risk of PD (odds ratio [OR] 1.21, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.07–1.36), and there was some evidence that T2DM was associated with faster progression of motor symptoms (standardized mean difference [SMD] 0.55, 95% CI 0.39–0.72) and cognitive decline (SMD −0.92, 95% CI −1.50 to −0.34). Using MR, we found supportive evidence for a causal effect of diabetes on PD risk (inverse‐variance weighted method [IVW] OR 1.08, 95% CI 1.02–1.14; P = 0.010) and some evidence of an effect on motor progression (IVW OR 1.10, 95% CI 1.01–1.20; P = 0.032) but not on cognitive progression.

Conclusions

Using meta‐analyses of traditional observational studies and genetic data, we observed convincing evidence for an effect of T2DM on PD risk and new evidence to support a role in PD progression. © 2021 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Novel SLC12A2-ROS1 Fusion in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer with a Significant Response to Crizotinib: The Importance of Choosing the Appropriate Next-Generation Sequencing Assay
Authors: Rodríguez-Antolín Carlos , Rosas-Alonso Rocío , Cruz Patricia , Higuera Oliver , Sánchez-Cabrero Darío , Esteban-Rodríguez Isabel , Peláez-García Alberto , Fernández Montaño Victoria Eugenia , Rodríguez-Jiménez Carmen , Ibáñez de Cáceres Inmaculada , Castro Javier
Published: March 2021

Identifying the druggable target is crucial for patients with nonsquamous advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This article adds to the spectrum of ROS1 fusion cases described in NSCLC. We describe a novel SLC12A2-ROS1 rearrangement that has not been previously reported in other cancers: a fusion that has clinical and radiological sensitivity to crizotinib. Fluorescence in situ hybridization detected the SLC12A2-ROS1 fusion and it was confirmed through hybrid capture-based next-generation sequencing (NGS); however, the fusion could not be detected by amplicon-based assay. The success of implementing NGS into routine clinical practice depends on the accuracy of testing. The test's methodological features should then be considered because they significantly affect the results. Given this patient's response to crizotinib, identifying patients with undescribed ROS1 fusions has important therapeutic implications.

Key Points

This is the first known description of an SLC12A2-ROS1 fusion. Considering the patient's clinical features and tumor response observed after crizotinib therapy, the authors confirm that this new rearrangement has relevant clinical impact for patients with non-small cell lung cancer. The success of implementing next-generation sequencing (NGS) into routine clinical practice depends on the accuracy of the testing. Different assays and NGS platforms can achieve differing results. Each assay's limitations need to be considered to ensure the quality of precision medicine in clinical practice.
Optimal one‐ and two‐sided adaptive EWMA scheme for monitoring Poisson count data
Authors: Tang Anan , Castagliola Philippe , Hu Xuelong , Zhou Xiaojian
Published: March 2021

The Poisson distribution assumption often arises in several industrial applications for modeling defects or nonconformities. In this work, we investigate the one‐ and two‐sided performance of a new adaptive EWMA (exponentially weighted moving average)‐type chart for monitoring Poisson count data. An appropriate discrete‐state Markov chain technique is provided to compute the exact ARL (average run length) properties. Moreover, comparative studies are conducted to demonstrate the higher sensitivity of the proposed chart in the detection of shifts with various magnitudes. Advices on how to select the appropriate chart parameters are provided and an illustrative numerical example is proposed.
Multimodality treatment in immunocompromised patients with severe COVID‐19: the role of IL‐6 inhibitor, intravenous immunoglobulin, and haemoperfusion
Authors: Leelayuwatanakul Nophol , Kongpolprom Napplika , Sriprasart Thitiwat , Phoophiboon Vorakamol , Thanthitaweewat Vorawut , Thawanaphong Sarita , Sirichana Worawan , Chirakalwasan Naricha , Kawkitinarong Kamon , Sittipunt Chanchai , Putcharoen Opass , Paitoonpong Leilani , Suwanpimolkul Gompol , Jantarabenjakul Watsamon , Srisawat Nattachai , Pachinburavan Monvasi
Published: March 2021

Cytokine release syndrome (CRS) is known to be associated with severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19). Multiple anti‐inflammatory therapies such as tocilizumab, corticosteroids, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), and haemoadsorption or haemoperfusion have been used to combat this life‐threatening condition. However, immunocompromised hosts are often omitted from research studies, and knowledge on the clinical efficacy of these therapies in immunocompromised patients is therefore limited. We report two cases of immunocompromised patients with severe COVID‐19‐related CRS requiring mechanical ventilation who were treated with multimodality treatment consisting of tocilizumab, IVIG, and haemoperfusion. Within 48 h, both patients showed clinical improvement with PaO2:FiO2 ratio and haemodynamic stability. Both survived to discharge. There were no adverse events following these therapies. In conclusion, combined therapeutic modalities, possibly tailored to individual inflammatory profiles, are promising treatment for severe COVID‐19 infection in the immunocompromised host. Timely administration of adjunctive therapies that alleviate overwhelming inflammation may provide the best outcome.
Minimally invasive treatment of an intramural monolateral ectopic urether in a French bulldog with 78, XX (SRY‐negative) ovotesticular disorder of sexual development
Authors: Ferriani Riccardo , Moyano Hugo Rubens , Verde Davide , Bottero Enrico
Published: March 2021

A one‐year‐old phenotypically female French Bulldog was referred for urinary incontinence. Physical examination disclosed the presence of hypertrophic clitoris. Computer tomography highlighted the presence of a left intramural ectopic ureter, in presence of a fully constituted female reproductive tract. Retrograde cystoscopy confirmed the presence of the ectopic ureter that was treated with cystoscopic‐guided laser ablation although incontinence persisted. Ovariohysterectomy and clitoridectomy were performed and histopathology of gonads was consistent with ovotestis. The subject's karyotype was defined as XX SRY‐negative and the case was diagnosed with a 78 XX (SRY‐negative) disorder of sexual development. A treatment with phenylpropanolamine led to the resolution of the incontinence. The association of such disorder with ectopic ureter and urinary incontinence has never been reported in dogs. Our findings suggest that the displacement of the ureter might be related to an incorrect secretion of sexual hormones in fetal life due to the presence of ovotestis.
A Rasch model analysis of two interpretations of ‘not relevant’ responses on the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI)
Authors: Rencz Fanni , Mitev Ariel Z. , Szabó Ákos , Beretzky Zsuzsanna , Poór Adrienn K. , Holló Péter , Wikonkál Norbert , Sárdy Miklós , Kárpáti Sarolta , Szegedi Andrea , Remenyik Éva , Brodszky Valentin
Published: March 2021

Purpose

Eight of the ten items of the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) have a ‘not relevant’ response (NRR) option. There are two possible ways to interpret NRRs: they may be considered ‘not at all’ or missing responses. We aim to compare the measurement performance of the DLQI in psoriasis patients when NRRs are scored as ‘0’ (hereafter zero-scoring) and ‘missing’ (hereafter missing-scoring) using Rasch model analysis.

Methods

Data of 425 patients with psoriasis from two earlier cross-sectional surveys were re-analysed. All patients completed the paper-based Hungarian version of the DLQI. A partial credit model was applied. The following model assumptions and measurement properties were tested: dimensionality, item fit, person reliability, order of response options and differential item functioning (DIF).

Results

Principal component analysis of the residuals of the Rasch model confirmed the unidimensional structure of the DLQI. Person separation reliability indices were similar with zero-scoring (0.910) and missing-scoring (0.914) NRRs. With zero-scoring, items 6 (sport), 7 (working/studying) and 9 (sexual difficulties) suffered from item misfit and item-level disordering. With missing-scoring, no misfit was observed and only item 7 was illogically ordered. Six and three items showed DIF for gender and age, respectively, that were reduced to four and three by missing-scoring.

Conclusions

Missing-scoring NRRs resulted in an improved measurement performance of the scale. DLQI scores of patients with at least one vs. no NRRs cannot be directly compared. Our findings provide further empirical support to the DLQI-R scoring modification that treats NRRs as missing and replaces them with the average score of the relevant items.
An Identity Process Theory Account of the Impact of Boarding School on Sense of Self and Mental Health: an Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis
Authors: Simpson Frances , Haughton Melanie , Van Gordon William
Published: March 2021

Boarding schools exist to provide education for children, but this involves the child leaving the family home and residing in an educational institution. Identity Process Theory suggests that such a change in circumstances can threaten the child’s identity, which triggers coping strategies and impacts on the individual’s self-concept during both childhood and adulthood. This study undertook an Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis of semi-structured interviews conducted with five adults who boarded as children. The focus was on exploring participants’ beliefs in terms of how the boarding experience affected their sense of self. Emerging themes relate to the (i) coping strategies used by participants during childhood, such as amnesia, compartmentalising, compliance and acceptance, and (ii) long-term effects of boarding on identity, self-concept and intimate relationships. Findings also highlight the interplay of factors such as privilege and social class, which were reported as motives for participants’ parents choosing boarding for their children. The study raises important questions about the long-term health impacts of sending children away to board.
Research and Practice of AI Ethics: A Case Study Approach Juxtaposing Academic Discourse with Organisational Reality
Authors: Ryan Mark , Antoniou Josephina , Brooks Laurence , Jiya Tilimbe , Macnish Kevin , Stahl Bernd
Published: March 2021

This study investigates the ethical use of Big Data and Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies (BD + AI)—using an empirical approach. The paper categorises the current literature and presents a multi-case study of 'on-the-ground' ethical issues that uses qualitative tools to analyse findings from ten targeted case-studies from a range of domains. The analysis coalesces identified singular ethical issues, (from the literature), into clusters to offer a comparison with the proposed classification in the literature. The results show that despite the variety of different social domains, fields, and applications of AI, there is overlap and correlation between the organisations’ ethical concerns. This more detailed understanding of ethics in AI + BD is required to ensure that the multitude of suggested ways of addressing them can be targeted and succeed in mitigating the pertinent ethical issues that are often discussed in the literature.
Leverage points to foster human–nature connectedness in cultural landscapes
Authors: Riechers Maraja , Pătru-Dușe Ioana Alexandra , Balázsi Ágnes
Published: March 2021

Calls for a reconnection to nature and the biosphere have been growing louder over the last decades. Cultural landscapes are rapidly changing, posing a threat to ecosystems and biodiversity, but also to human–nature connections. Human–nature connectedness may be a potential lever to shift the unsustainable trajectory that we are currently proceeding, but is also negatively influenced by it. To concretize the call for a reconnection to nature, we used the leverage points perspective on five empirical case studies with focus on human–nature connectedness. Based on the synthesis of our yearlong work, in this perspective paper, we propose four leverage points to foster a sustainability transformation: (1) maintain and enhance the structural diversity of landscapes, (2) maintain and enhance economically and ecologically sustainable small-scale agriculture, (3) strengthen sense of place and (4) strengthen sense of agency in actors. Intervening in these leverage points could be effective to foster human–nature connectedness and ultimately contribute towards a sustainable trajectory. We further argue that the interconnection between leverage points is equally important as their systemic depth.
Predictive factors of mortality in open abdomen for abdominal sepsis: a retrospective cohort study on 113 patients
Authors: Tartaglia Dario , Marin Jacopo Nicolò , Nicoli Alice Maria , De Palma Andrea , Picchi Martina , Musetti Serena , Cremonini Camilla , Salvadori Stefano , Coccolini Federico , Chiarugi Massimo
Published: March 2021

Over the past few years, the open abdomen (OA) as a part of Damage Control Surgery (DCS) has been introduced as a surgical strategy with the intent to reduce the mortality of patients with severe abdominal sepsis. Aims of our study were to analyze the OA effects on patients with abdominal sepsis and identify predictive factors of mortality. Patients admitted to our institution with abdominal sepsis requiring OA from 2010 to 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. Primary outcomes were mortality, morbidity and definitive fascial closure (DFC). Comparison between groups was made via univariate and multivariate analyses. On 1474 patients operated for abdominal sepsis, 113 (7.6%) underwent OA. Male gender accounted for 52.2% of cases. Mean age was 68.1 ± 14.3 years. ASA score was > 2 in 87.9%. Mean BMI, APACHE II score and Mannheim Peritonitis Index were 26.4 ± 4.9, 15.3 ± 6.3, and 22.6 ± 7.3, respectively. A negative pressure wound system technique was used in 47% of the cases. Overall, mortality was 43.4%, morbidity 76.6%, and DFC rate was 97.8%. Entero-atmospheric fistula rate was 2.2%. At multivariate analysis, APACHE II score (OR 1.18; 95% CI 1.05–1.32; p = 0.005), Frailty Clinical Scale (OR 4.66; 95% CI 3.19–6.12; p < 0.0001) and ASA grade IV (OR 7.86; 95% CI 2.18–28.27; p = 0.002) were significantly associated with mortality. OA seems to be a safe and reliable treatment for critically ill patients with severe abdominal sepsis. Nonetheless, in these patients, co-morbidity and organ failure remain the major obstacles to a better prognosis.
Antiretroviral Drug Treatment of Individuals that Used Preexposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) Before Diagnosis
Authors: van de Vijver David A. M. C. , Mukherjee Shreoshee , van Kampen Jeroen J.A.
Published: March 2021

Purpose of review

The antiretroviral drugs, tenofovir and emtricitabine used as preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP), are also used in treatment of HIV. Drug resistance due to PrEP can therefore jeopardize future treatment options. This review discusses treatment of individuals that used PrEP in whom viral mutations against tenofovir (K65R) or emtricitabine (M184I/V) are found.

Recent findings

Although no studies systematically investigated the optimal treatment of individuals who used PrEP before diagnosis, there is anecdotal evidence that HIV including the K65R and/or M184I/V can be successfully treated using recommended first-line regimens.

Drug resistance can be ascribed to use of PrEP while having an unrecognized acute HIV infection, partial adherence to PrEP, and transmission of HIV resistant to PrEP drugs. First-line antiretroviral drug treatment in individuals who used PrEP before diagnosis must be optimized based on genotypic resistance test results. Individuals in whom M184I/V and/or K65R is detected can be treated with dolutegravir-based, bictegravir-based, or darunavir-based regimens plus tenofovir plus lamivudine or emtricitabine. Dual therapy using dolutegravir plus lamivudine is not recommended for induction therapy in individuals with viral mutations against the drugs used as PrEP. There is an urgent need to confirm the anecdotal evidence for successful treatment using first-line regimens.
Does Self-rated Attractiveness Predict Women’s Preferences for Facial Masculinity? Data From an Arab Sample
Authors: Alharbi Sarah A. H. , Holzleitner Iris J. , Saribay S. Adil , Jones Benedict C. , Lee Anthony J.
Published: March 2021

Objectives

Because more attractive women may be better able to attract and/or retain masculine mates, many researchers have proposed that women who consider themselves to be more physically attractive will show stronger preferences for men displaying masculine facial characteristics. Empirical evidence for this putative association between women’s self-rated attractiveness and preference for facial masculinity has come almost entirely from studies of Western women. Thus, we investigated whether this pattern of results also occurs in a sample of non-Western women.

Methods

We investigated the relationship between self-rated attractiveness and facial-masculinity preferences in a sample of Arab women (N = 281). Facial-masculinity preferences were assessed from attractiveness judgments of masculinized versus feminized versions of face images.

Results

By contrast with previous findings for Western women’s self-rated attractiveness, we observed no compelling evidence that Arab women who considered themselves to be more attractive showed stronger preferences for masculine men.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that previously reported associations between self-rated attractiveness and masculinity preferences might be somewhat culture specific, potentially reflecting cultural differences in typical mating strategies.
An Empirical Assessment of the Contagion Determinants in the Euro Area in a Period of Sovereign Debt Risk
Authors: Altınbaş Hazar , Pacelli Vincenzo , Sica Edgardo
Published: March 2021

This paper uses learning methods and optimization techniques to investigate the determinants of shock propagation in the Euro area for the period 2001–2015. First, principal component analyses are used with country bond yields to identify sub-periods and country groups; second, influencing factors for country bond yields are investigated with random forest models; lastly, shock propagation among groups are examined with impulse response functions. Models in steps two and three are improved by using simulated annealing algorithm. The empirical findings achieved can be particularly relevant for both investors and policymakers. Shedding light on the determinants of financial contagion may be in fact useful for investors who can derive relevant information about countries which are less sensitive to be affected by shocks, orienting thus their investment strategies. At the same time, policymakers could draw worthwhile and preventive hedging strategies and design the most suitable crisis management policies.
Interface Engineering via Ti3C2Tx MXene Electrolyte Additive toward Dendrite-Free Zinc Deposition
Authors: Sun Chuang , Wu Cuiping , Gu Xingxing , Wang Chao , Wang Qinghong
Published: March 2021

Zinc metal batteries have been considered as a promising candidate for next-generation batteries due to their high safety and low cost. However, their practical applications are severely hampered by the poor cyclability that caused by the undesired dendrite growth of metallic Zn. Herein, Ti3C2Tx MXene was first used as electrolyte additive to facilitate the uniform Zn deposition by controlling the nucleation and growth process of Zn. Such MXene additives can not only be absorbed on Zn foil to induce uniform initial Zn deposition via providing abundant zincophilic-O groups and subsequently participate in the formation of robust solid-electrolyte interface film, but also accelerate ion transportation by reducing the Zn2+ concentration gradient at the electrode/electrolyte interface. Consequently, MXene-containing electrolyte realizes dendrite-free Zn plating/striping with high Coulombic efficiency (99.7%) and superior reversibility (stably up to 1180 cycles). When applied in full cell, the Zn-V2O5 cell also delivers significantly improved cycling performances. This work provides a facile yet effective method for developing reversible zinc metal batteries.
A Low gate count reconfigurable architecture for biomedical signal processing applications
Authors: Jain Nupur , Mishra Biswajit , Wilson Peter
Published: March 2021

A new reconfigurable architecture for biomedical applications is presented in this paper. The architecture targets frequently encountered functions in biomedical signal processing algorithms thereby replacing multiple dedicated accelerators and reports low gate count. An optimized implementation is achieved by mapping methodologies to functions and limiting the required memory leading directly to an overall minimization of gate count. The proposed architecture has a simple configuration scheme with special provision for handling feedback. The effectiveness of the architecture is demonstrated on an FPGA to show implementation schemes for multiple DSP functions. The architecture has gate count of $$\approx$$
≈
25k and an operating frequency of 46.9 MHz.
The impact of scoliosis surgery on pulmonary function in spinal muscular atrophy: a systematic review
Authors: Alhammoud Abduljabber , Othman Yahya , El-Hawary Ron , Mackenzie William G. , Howard Jason J.
Published: March 2021

Scoliosis often occurs coincident with pulmonary function deterioration in spinal muscular atrophy but a causal relationship has not yet been reliably established. A systematic literature review was performed, with pulmonary function testing being the primary outcome pre- and post-scoliosis surgery. Levels of evidence were determined and GRADE recommendations made. Ninety studies were identified with only 14 meeting inclusion criteria. Four studies were level III and the rest were level IV evidence. The average age at surgical intervention was 11.8 years (follow-up 6.1 years). Post-operative pulmonary function progressively declined for the majority of studies. Otherwise, pulmonary function: improved (two studies), were unchanged (two studies), had a decreased rate of decline (three studies), declined initially then returned to baseline (two studies). Respiratory and spine-based complications were common. Given the available evidence, the following GRADE C recommendations were made: (1) surgery is most often associated with decreases in pulmonary function; (2) the impact of surgery on pulmonary function is variable, but does not improve over pre-operative baseline; (3) surgery may result in a decreased rate of decline in pulmonary function post-operatively. Given this lack of evidence-based support, the risk–benefit balance should be taken into consideration when contemplating scoliosis surgery.
Role of gene therapy in Fanconi anemia
Authors: Shafqat Shameel , Tariq Eleze , Parnes Aric D. , Dasouki Majed J. , Ahmed Syed O. , Hashmi Shahrukh K.
Published: March 2021

Gene therapy (GT) has been reported to improve bone marrow function in individuals with Fanconi anemia (FA); however, its clinical application is still in the initial stages. We conducted this systematic review, following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, to assess the long-term safety and clinical outcomes of GT in FA patients. Electronic searches from PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar were conducted and full texts of articles meeting our inclusion criteria were reviewed. Three clinical trials were included, with a total of nine patients and mean age of 10.7 ± 5.7 years. All patients had lentiviral-mediated GT. A 1-year follow-up showed stabilization in blood lineages, without any serious adverse effects from GT. A metaregression analysis could not be conducted, as very little long-term follow-up data of patients was observed, and the median survival rate could not be calculated. Thus, we can conclude that GT seems to be a safe procedure in FA; however, further research needs to be conducted on the longitudinal clinical effects of GT in FA, for a better insight into its potential to become a standard form of treatment.
Predictors of Anxiety and Depression in Medical Professionals During the Time of COVID-19 Outbreak
Authors: Ren Zhengjia , Xie Zhongyao
Published: March 2021

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to investigate the influences of sociodemographic data, mental disorder history, confusion and somatic discomfort triggered by social media on anxiety and depression symptoms among medical professionals during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak.

Methods:

A total of 460 participants completed online questionnaires that included sociodemographic data, mental health disorder history, an assessment of confusion and somatic discomfort triggered by social media, and psychological disturbance. Hierarchical linear regression model was adopted to analysis the data.

Results:

The hierarchical linear regression model was able to explain 41.7% of variance in depression symptoms, including comorbidity with 1 mental disorder (B = 0.296; P < 0.001), confusion (B = 0.174; P < 0.001), and somatic discomfort (B = 0.358; P < 0.001) triggered by social media. The hierarchical linear regression model was able to explain 41.7% of variance in anxiety symptoms, including sex (B = -0.08; P < 0.005), comorbidity with 1 mental health disorder (B = 0.242; P < 0.001), confusion (B = 0.228; P < 0.001), and somatic discomfort (B = 0.436; P < 0.001) triggered by social media.

Conclusions:

These results suggest that it is important to provide adequate psychological assistance for medical professionals with mental health problems in COVID-19 to buffer the negative impact of social media.
Sustaining University Operations During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Ryan Benjamin J. , Muehlenbein Michael P. , Allen Jon , Been Joshua , Boyd Kenneth , Brickhouse Mark , Brooks Bryan W. , Burchett Matthew , Chambliss C. Kevin , Cook Jason D. , Ecklund Adam , Fogleman Lori , Granick Peter , Hynes Sharra , Hudson Tonya , Huse Michelle , Lamb Micah , Lowe Tiffany , Marsh Jim , Nixon Niesha , Nolan Dennis , Nuñez George , Matthews Walter “Sparky” , Stern Sharon , Wheelis Meaghann , Brickhouse Nancy
Published: March 2021

Colleges and universities around the world engaged diverse strategies during the COVID-19 pandemic. Baylor University, a community of ˜22,700 individuals, was 1 of the institutions which resumed and sustained operations. The key strategy was establishment of multidisciplinary teams to develop mitigation strategies and priority areas for action. This population-based team approach along with implementation of a “Swiss Cheese” risk mitigation model allowed small clusters to be rapidly addressed through testing, surveillance, tracing, isolation, and quarantine. These efforts were supported by health protocols including face coverings, social distancing, and compliance monitoring. As a result, activities were sustained from August 1 to December 8, 2020. There were 62,970 COVID-19 tests conducted with 1435 people testing positive for a positivity rate of 2.28%. A total of 1670 COVID-19 cases were identified with 235 self-reports. The mean number of tests per week was 3500 with approximately 80 of these positive (11/d). More than 60 student tracers were trained with over 120 personnel available to contact trace, at a ratio of 1 per 400 university members. The successes and lessons learned provide a framework and pathway for similar institutions to mitigate the ongoing impacts of COVID-19 and sustain operations during a global pandemic.
Crisis signaling: how Italy's coronavirus lockdown affected incumbent support in other European countries
Authors: De Vries Catherine E. , Bakker Bert N. , Hobolt Sara B. , Arceneaux Kevin
Published: March 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic is an unparalleled global crisis. Yet, despite the grave adversity faced by citizens, incumbents around the world experienced a boost in popularity during the onset of the outbreak. In this study, we examine how the response to the COVID-19 outbreak in one country affected incumbent support in other countries. Specifically, we leverage the fact that the first country-wide lockdown on European soil, in Italy on 9 March 2020, happened during the fieldwork of surveys conducted in four other European countries, France, Germany, Poland and Spain. This allows us to examine how an event abroad that alerted citizens to an imminent crisis—prior to a similar domestic government response—influenced incumbent support. Our results indicate a crisis signal effect of Italy's COVID-19 lockdown, as support for the incumbent increased domestically in other European countries after the lockdown. Importantly, these findings suggest that incumbents can benefit from a crisis unfolding in other countries, even when their own performance in response to the same crisis is not yet fully clear. They illustrate the importance of developments abroad for incumbent approval and the difficulty facing citizens seeking to disentangle performance signals from exogenous shocks.