bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploratory Data Analysis Applied in Mapping Multi‐element Soil Geochemical Anomalies for Drill Target Definition: A Case Study from the Unpha Layered Non‐magmatic Hydrothermal Pb‐Zn Deposit, DPR Korea
Authors: JANG Gwang‐Hyok , WON Hyon‐Chol , HWANG Bo‐Hyon , CHOI Chol‐Man
Published: February 2020

A factor analysis was applied to soil geochemical data to define anomalies related to buried Pb‐Zn mineralization. A favorable main factor with a strong association of the elements Zn, Cu and Pb, related to mineralization, was selected for interpretation. The median + 2MAD (median absolute deviation) method of exploratory data analysis (EDA) and C‐A (concentration‐area) fractal modeling were then applied to the Mahalanobis distance, as defined by Zn, Cu and Pb from the factor analysis to set the thresholds for defining multi‐element anomalies. As a result, the median + 2MAD method more successfully identified the Pb‐Zn mineralization than the C‐A fractal model. The soil anomaly identified by the median + 2MAD method on the Mahalanobis distances defined by three principal elements (Zn, Cu and Pb) rather than thirteen elements (Co, Zn, Cu, V, Mo, Ni, Cr, Mn, Pb, Ba, Sr, Zr and Ti) was the more favorable reflection of the ore body. The identified soil geochemical anomalies were compared with the in situ economic Pb‐Zn ore bodies for validation. The results showed that the median + 2MAD approach is capable of mapping both strong and weak geochemical anomalies related to buried Pb‐Zn mineralization, which is therefore useful at the reconnaissance drilling stage.
Neoproterozoic Tectonic Events of Egypt
Authors: ABD EL‐WAHED Mohamed , HAMIMI Zakaria
Published: February 2020

The Egyptian Nubian Shield (ENS) represents the northwestern part of the Arabian‐Nubian Shield and the northern extension of the East African Orogen. The ENS is regarded as being formed due to northward‐directed escape tectonics. It is characterized by mild accretion and suture zones dominated by major strike‐slip zones with a commonly sinistral sense of movement; some shear zones display a dextral sense of shear. It is dominated by gneisses and migmatites in the south, arc volcaniclastic metasediments and highly dismembered ophiolites in the central parts, whereas its northern part is dominated by late‐ to post‐tectonic granitoids. In southern Sinai, the Neoproterozoic rocks are grouped into four complexes, namely Feiran–Solaf, Sa'al–Zaghra, Kid and Taba. The ENS ophiolites were formed between 730–750 Ma, mainly in a supra‐subduction zone setting. The ENS has undergone a Neoproterozoic deformation history involving three successive phases: (1) Early N–S shortening phase (D1), (2) Syn‐accretionary phase (D2) and (3) Post‐accretionary phase (D3). The initial island‐arc stage (780–730 Ma) is a N–S shortening phase initiated by collision between the Eastern Desert tectonic terrane to the north with both the Gebeit and Gabgaba terranes to the south (830–720 Ma). During the arc‐splitting and back‐arc spreading stage (730–620), voluminous syn‐tectonic granitoids intruded into the ENS (750–610 Ma). The E–W‐directed compressional/transpressional phase (620–450 Ma) led to the overall uplift of the central part of the ENS and consequently the development and exhumation of the core complexes in oblique convergent zones. The E–W intense shortening deformation resulted also in the formation of NW‐ and NE‐striking sinistral and dextral strike‐slip shear zones, respectively. The latest periods of the E–W‐directed compressional/transpressional regime were characterized by deposition of the molasse‐type Hammamat Sediments unconformably over the Dokhan Volcanics, or interbedded with them. The combined thrusting, folding and sinistral‐reverse shearing structures have been interpreted to resulted from the E–W‐directed compressional/transpressional phase in response to the oblique shortening of the Arabian‐Nubian Shield between East and West Gondwana.
Stress Distribution in the Upper Shihezi Formation from 1D Mechanical Earth Model and 3D Heterogeneous Geomechanical Model, Linxing Region, Eastern Ordos Basin, Central China
Authors: JU Wei , SHEN Jian , QIN Yong , WANG Geoff , XU Ke , LI Guozhang , LI Chao
Published: February 2020

The Upper Shihezi sedimentary rocks in the Linxing region has been estimated with a significant volume of tight sandstone gas. However, lateral distribution of the present‐day stress magnitude is poorly understood, which limits further gas production. Hence, a one‐dimensional mechanical earth model and a three‐dimensional heterogeneous geomechanical model are built to address this issue. The results indicate that the strike‐slip stress regime is dominant in the Upper Shihezi Formation. Relatively low stresses are mainly located around wells L‐60, L‐22, L‐40, L‐90, etc, and stress distributions exhibit the similarity in the Members H2 and H4. The differential stresses are relatively low in the Upper Shihezi Formation, suggesting that complex hydraulic fracture networks may be produced. Natural fractures in the Upper Shihezi Formation contribute little to the overall gas production in the Linxing region. In addition, the minimum principal stress gradient increases with Young's modulus, suggesting that the stiffer rocks commonly convey higher stress magnitudes. There is a strong interplay between stress distribution and heterogeneity in rock mechanics. Overall, the relative error between the predicted and measured results is less than 10%, implying that the predicted stress distribution is reliable and can be used for subsequent analysis in the Linxing region.
Assessment of serum cytokines predicts clinical and endoscopic outcomes to vedolizumab in ulcerative colitis patients
Authors: Bertani Lorenzo , Baglietto Laura , Antonioli Luca , Fornai Matteo , Tapete Gherardo , Albano Eleonora , Ceccarelli Linda , Mumolo Maria Gloria , Pellegrini Carolina , Lucenteforte Ersilia , de Bortoli Nicola , Bellini Massimo , Marchi Santino , Blandizzi Corrado , Costa Francesco
Published: February 2020

Aims

Vedolizumab (VDZ) prevents migration of activated leucocytes into inflamed mucosa. This study aimed to assess the patterns of serum cytokines in ulcerative colitis (UC) patients at baseline and during VDZ treatment, and to investigate their association with mucosal healing and clinical remission.

Methods

We enrolled consecutive UC patients eligible for treatment with VDZ. A panel of serum cytokines were measured by fluorescence assay at weeks 0, 6 and 22. Colonoscopy was performed at baseline and week 54, to evaluate mucosal healing. The time trends of serum cytokines were analysed by log‐linear mixed effect models, and their prognostic accuracy was evaluated by logistic regression.

Results

Out of 27 patients included in the analysis, at week 54 mucosal healing was achieved in 12 (44%) and clinical remission in 17 (63%). Mucosal healing was associated with higher interleukin (IL)‐8 values at baseline and with significant decrease in IL‐6 and IL‐8 levels over the first 6 weeks. A significant reduction of IL‐6 and IL‐8 levels over the first 6 weeks of treatment was associated also with clinical remission. Logistic models including, among the predictors, IL‐6 and IL‐8 at baseline and their changes over the first 6 weeks of treatment had 83% sensitivity and 87% specificity to predict mucosal healing, and 82% sensitivity and 90% specificity to predict clinical remission.

Conclusion

In UC patients, the serum patterns of IL‐6 and IL‐8 at baseline and over the first 6 weeks of treatment with VDZ could be useful to predict therapeutic outcome.
Managing venous thromboembolic risk in women undergoing spontaneous or induced early pregnancy loss: a consensus statement from the British Society of Haematology Obstetric Haematology Special Interest Group
Authors: Bagot Catherine N. , Pavord Sue , Hunt Beverley J. ,   the British Society of Haematology Obstetric Haematology Special Interest Group
Published: February 2020

The level of venous thrombosis risk in women who experience spontaneous or induced pregnancy loss has previously been uncertain. However, recent data indicate that the risk of venous thrombosis in women undergoing pregnancy termination in the first trimester is increased two‐fold compared to non‐pregnant women but reduced five‐fold compared to women in the 6 weeks following a term birth. The termination procedure itself appears not to influence thrombosis risk. In light of this data, this consensus statement provides recommendations for reducing the risk of venous thrombosis in women undergoing spontaneous or induced pregnancy loss based on Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists risk stratification guidelines.
Foreign direct investment in vertically related markets
Authors: Milliou Chrysovalantou , Pavlou Apostolis
Published: February 2020

We study an MNE's choice of FDI mode in a vertically related market with local input sourcing. We show how the market's vertical structure and trading features affect this choice. An MNE's incentives to expand through cross‐border acquisition rather than through greenfield investment are stronger in markets with higher upstream bargaining power, upstream concentration and unobservable contract terms. The opposite holds in markets in which wholesale price contracts, instead of two‐part tariffs, are used. Our welfare analysis suggests that the host country should not always welcome FDI and should discourage FDI through acquisition.
Economic impacts of alternative kidney transplant immunosuppression: A national cohort study
Authors: Axelrod David A. , Caliskan Yasar , Schnitzler Mark A. , Xiao Huiling , Dharnidharka Vikas R. , Segev Dorry L. , McAdams‐DeMarco Mara , Brennan Daniel C. , Randall Henry , Alhamad Tarek , Kasiske Bertram L. , Hess Gregory , Lentine Krista L.
Published: February 2020

Understanding the economic implications of induction and maintenance immunosuppression (ISx) is important in developing personalized kidney transplant (KTx) care. Using data from a novel integrated data set including financial records from the University Health System Consortium, Medicare, and pharmacy claims (2007‐2014), we estimated the differences in the impact of induction and maintenance ISx regimens on transplant hospitalization costs and Medicare payments from KTx to 3 years. Use of thymoglobulin (TMG) significantly increased transplant hospitalization costs ($12 006; P = .02), compared with alemtuzumab and basiliximab. TMG resulted in lower Medicare payments in posttransplant years 1 (−$2058; P = .05) and 2 (−$1784; P = .048). Patients on steroid‐sparing ISx incurred relatively lower total Medicare spending (−$10 880; P = .01) compared with patients on triple therapy (tacrolimus, antimetabolite, and steroids). MPA/AZA‐sparing, mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors‐based, and cyclosporine‐based maintenance ISx regimens were associated with significantly higher payments. Alternative ISx regimens were associated with different KTx hospitalization costs and longer‐term payments. Future studies of clinical efficacy should also consider cost impacts to define the economic effectiveness of alternative ISx regimens.
The proportion of Model for End‐stage Liver Disease Sodium score attributable to creatinine independently predicts post‐transplant survival and renal complications
Authors: Bittermann Therese , Hubbard Rebecca A. , Lewis James D. , Goldberg David S.
Published: February 2020

The post‐transplant outcomes of patients with Model for End‐stage Liver Disease (MELD) score primarily driven by renal dysfunction are poorly understood. This was a retrospective cohort study of liver transplant (LT) alone recipients between 2005 and 2017 using the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) database. The proportion of MELD Sodium score attributable to creatinine (“KidneyMELD”) was calculated: (9.57 × ln (creatinine) × 100)/(MELD‐Na − 6.43). The association of KidneyMELD with (a) all‐cause mortality and (b) estimated glomerular filtration rate ≤30 mL/min/1.732 at 1‐year post‐LT were evaluated. Recipients with KidneyMELD ≥50% had a 52% higher risk of post‐LT mortality (adjusted hazard ratio 1.52 vs KidneyMELD 0%, 95% CI: 1.36‐1.69; P < .001). This risk was significantly greater for older patients, particularly when >50 years at LT (interaction P < .001). KidneyMELD ≥50% was also associated with an 11‐fold increase in the odds of advanced renal dysfunction at 1‐year post‐LT (adjusted odds ratio 11.53 vs KidneyMELD 0%; 95% CI 8.9‐14.93; P < .001). Recipients prioritized for LT primarily on the basis of renal dysfunction have marked post‐LT mortality and morbidity independent of MELD Sodium score. The implications of these results in the context of the new UNOS “safety net” kidney transplant policy require further study.
Effects of Temsavir, Active Moiety of Antiretroviral Agent Fostemsavir, on QT Interval: Results From a Phase I Study and an Exposure–Response Analysis
Authors: Lagishetty Chakradhar , Moore Katy , Ackerman Peter , Llamoso Cyril , Magee Mindy
Published: February 2020

Fostemsavir, a prodrug of human immunodeficiency virus attachment inhibitor temsavir (TMR), is in phase III development in combination with other antiretroviral agents for the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus type I (HIV‐1) infection in heavily treatment‐experienced adults with multidrug‐resistant HIV‐1 infection for whom it is otherwise not possible to construct a suppressive antiviral regimen due to resistance, intolerance, or safety considerations. The proarrhythmic potential of fostemsavir was studied in a thorough QT study and exposure–response modeling was performed at therapeutic and supratherapeutic concentrations of TMR. Fostemsavir 1,200 mg b.i.d. did not result in a clinically meaningful change from placebo in baseline‐adjusted Fridericia‐corrected QTc (ddQTcF); however, at a supratherapeutic dose of 2,400 mg b.i.d., the upper bound of the two‐sided 90% confidence interval (CI) of ddQTcF was 13.2 msec, exceeding the clinically important 10 msec threshold. A linear model of ddQTcF as a function of TMR plasma concentrations described these observations. Based on simulations with this model, TMR concentrations up to 7,500 ng/mL are expected to have an upper 90% CI bound for QTcF ≤ 10 msec. This concentration is 4.2‐fold higher than the geometric mean TMR peak plasma concentration (Cmax) of 1,770 ng/mL in heavily treatment‐experienced HIV‐1 infected patients administered fostemsavir 600 mg b.i.d. in the phase III BRIGHTE study (NCT02362503).
Einfluss von Placeboeffekten auf die Lebensqualität und Wundheilung von Patienten mit chronischem Ulcus cruris venosum
Authors: Jockenhöfer Finja , Knust Christopher , Benson Sven , Schedlowski Manfred , Dissemond Joachim
Published: February 2020

Einleitung

Placeboeffekte werden bereits in verschiedenen Gebieten der Medizin therapeutisch genutzt. Im Kontext dermatologischer Erkrankungen gibt es diesbezüglich nur wenig, bezüglich der Wundheilung bisher kaum wissenschaftliche Erkenntnisse.

Material und Methodik

In einer prospektiven, randomisierten, kontrollierten Studie wurden Patienten mit chronischem Ulcus cruris venosum über 14 Wochen beobachtet. Es wurde untersucht, ob durch die Vermittlung einer positiven Erwartungshaltung in Bezug auf eine neue Wundtherapie die Wundheilungsprozesse, die wundbezogene Lebensqualität, Angst, Depressivität und Schmerz beeinflusst werden können.

Ergebnisse

Insgesamt wurden 20 Patienten eingeschlossen, nach Geschlecht stratifiziert und in die Interventions (IG)‐ bzw. Kontrollgruppe (KG) randomisiert. Die Wundfläche nahm in beiden Gruppen über den Beobachtungszeitraum signifikant ab, die wundbezogene Lebensqualität (Wound‐QoL) zeigte in der IG im Gegensatz zu der KG sowohl in der Gesamtpunktzahl als auch in den Subskalen eine signifikante Verbesserung. In Bezug auf Schmerz, Angst und Depressivität ergaben sich keine Hinweise auf signifikante Veränderungen in beiden Gruppen.

Schlussfolgerungen

Die Ergebnisse unserer Studie zeigen erstmalig, dass durch Placeboeffekte bei Patienten mit chronischem Ulcus cruris venosum allein durch die Erwartungshaltung eine neue Therapie zur erhalten, eine signifikante Verbesserung der Lebensqualität erzielt werden kann. Diese Resultate sollten zukünftig in Therapiekonzepten von Patienten mit chronischen Wunden berücksichtigt und an größeren Kohorten untersucht werden.
Atopic dermatitis and psychosocial comorbidities
Authors: Kage Paula , Simon Jan‐Christoph , Treudler Regina
Published: February 2020

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory disease that may be associated with a number of comorbidities including psychosocial disorders, which are the primary focus of this article. The data presented is based on a literature search in PubMed and subsequent screening of relevant review articles and guidelines.

There is a greater prevalence of depression, anxiety, sleep disorders and suicidal ideation among individuals with AD. The disease negatively impacts patients’ quality of life. Children with AD have been shown to more commonly exhibit signs of attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Only little data exists on the association of AD with schizophrenia, eating disorders or obsessive‐compulsive disorder.

There is a great need for research in the field of AD‐related comorbidities, especially with respect to the question as to whether and how novel treatment options may potentially affect these comorbidities.
Development of an early intervention programme for adolescents with emotion dysregulation and their families: Actions for the treatment of adolescent personality (ATraPA)
Authors: Mayoral Maria , Valencia Fatima , Calvo Ana , Roldan Laura , Espliego Ana , Rodriguez‐Toscano Elisa , Kehrmann Lara , Arango Celso , Delgado Carlos
Published: February 2020

Aim

Borderline personality disorder and severe emotion dysregulation in adolescence is a major public health concern. Dialectical Behaviour Therapy is a promising treatment for suicidality in adolescents. The aim of this work is to present an adaptation of this intervention to the Spanish national health system, Actions for the Treatment of Adolescent Personality (ATraPA).

Method

Data consists of a description of the different ATraPA subprogrammes, including interventions for adolescents aged 13 to 17 and their families. Participants were referred to ATraPA from different hospitals within the region of Madrid, Spain.

Results

ATraPA has been developed as an intensive outpatient treatment and it comprises different subprogrammes. ATraPA‐TAI is an intensive outpatient treatment, including a skills‐based group, individual therapy and email therapy. ATraPA‐FAL is a psychoeducational intervention for families, including emotion regulation strategies for parents themselves. Finally, the Alternatives Group is offered to adolescents during the hospital admission, with the aim of promoting alternative coping skills. The group of therapists provides a support network to the professionals involved in ATraPA.

Conclusions

ATraPA has been successfully implemented in a Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Service within the Spanish national health system. Future studies should address the efficacy of ATraPA using a controlled design.
Topical α‐gal nanoparticles accelerate diabetic wound healing
Authors: Kaymakcalan Omer E. , Abadeer Andrew , Goldufsky Josef W. , Galili Uri , Karinja Sarah J. , Dong Xue , Jin Julia L. , Samadi Arash , Spector Jason A.
Published: February 2020

An inadequate response from macrophages, key orchestrators of the wound healing process, has been implicated in the pathophysiology of impaired healing in diabetes. This study explored the utility of nanoparticles presenting the α‐gal (Galα1‐3Galβ1‐4GlcNAc‐R) epitope to induce anti‐Gal antibody‐mediated local transient recruitment of macrophages to accelerate wound closure and healing in a diabetic murine model. α1,3galactosyltrasferase knockout mice were stimulated to produce anti‐Gal antibodies and subsequently diabetes was induced by streptozotocin‐induced β‐cell destruction. Six mm full‐thickness skin wounds were made and α‐gal nanoparticles (AGN) were topically applied on postwounding days 0 and 1. Wounds were analysed histologically for macrophage invasion and markers of wound healing, including epithelialization, vascularization and granulation tissue deposition through postoperative day 12. We found that application of AGN transiently but significantly increased macrophage recruitment into the wounds of diabetic mice. Treated wounds demonstrated more rapid closure and enhanced wound healing as demonstrated by significantly accelerated rates of epithelialization, vascularization and granulation tissue deposition. Thus, topical treatment of full‐thickness wounds in diabetic mice with α‐gal nanoparticles induced a transient but significant increase in macrophage recruitment resulting in an accelerated rate of wound healing. Using α‐gal nanoparticles as a topical wound healing adjunct is a simple, safe and effective means of augmenting dysregulated macrophage recruitment present in the diabetic state.
Cell death induced by dorsomorphin in adult T‐cell leukemia/lymphoma is AMPK‐independent
Authors: Aikawa Akiyoshi , Kozako Tomohiro , Uchida Yuichiro , Yoshimitsu Makoto , Ishitsuka Kenji , Ohsugi Takeo , Honda Shin‐ichiro
Published: February 2020

Adult T‐cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATL) is an aggressive T‐cell neoplasm with poor prognosis that develops after chronic infection with human T‐cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV‐1). Although AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a critical cellular energy sensor, it has recently become clear that AMPK can act as a tumor regulator. Here, we assessed the expression of AMPK in primary ATL cells and the effects of dorsomorphin, an AMPK inhibitor, on primary ATL cells and HTLV‐1‐infected T‐cell lines. AMPK expression in acute and chronic ATL patients was significantly higher than in asymptomatic HTLV‐1 carriers and healthy donors. Dorsomorphin induced apoptosis in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from ATL patients. Dorsomorphin also induced dose‐ and time‐dependent apoptosis in HTLV‐1‐infected T‐cell lines. Dorsomorphin increased the production of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and induced ataxia telangiectasia‐mutated Ser1981 phosphorylation and p53 accumulation. These results indicated that dorsomorphin induces apoptosis via ROS‐mediated DNA damage in HTLV‐1‐infected T‐cell lines. Furthermore, dorsomorphin suppressed the growth of human ATL tumor xenografts in NOD/SCID mice. Together, these data suggest that AMPK could be a candidate therapeutic target for ATL and that dorsomorphin could be a therapeutic agent for ATL.
Questioning the view: Historical geography and topographical art
Authors: Piana Pietro , Watkins Charles
Published: February 2020

This article argues that a recent resurgence of interest in topographical art has opened up a new and exciting debate about how such drawings and paintings can be used by historical geographers. This is demonstrated by a review of recent research by historical geographers, art historians, and historians, which explores how topographical art is being interrogated to examine landscape history and environmental change. Topographical views provide insights into the way in which landscapes of the past were shaped, used, and perceived. The article establishes that topographical art is increasingly used in the analysis of past geomorphological processes, which have significant implications for current landscape and heritage management. It reveals that when topographical art is correctly contextualized it can be an extremely valuable source. The artist's biography and education is of crucial importance, as well as the comparison with historical cartographies, documents, and field data. Historical geographers are particularly well placed to undertake research, which questions the artwork's accuracy and goes beyond its literal interpretation as a straightforward depiction of a place.
The relationship between oral hygiene‐related self‐efficacy, general self‐efficacy and daily plaque control
Authors: Sarsilmazer Gülçin , Atilla Gül
Published: February 2020

Objectives

To assess validity and reliability of Turkish oral hygiene‐related self‐efficacy (OHSE) scale, and the scores of general self‐efficacy (GSE) and OHSE in the patients with gingivitis and chronic periodontitis (CP). Additionally, the effect of motivation and oral hygiene instructions on the OHSE scores and plaque index (PI) was also aimed.

Materials and methods

GSE and OHSE scores were obtained from 210 patients with gingivitis and CP (Group A). After determination of “cut‐off” values on OHSE scores, patients with OHSE scores <30 (OHSE‐low) and ≥50 (OHSE‐high) were included in Group B (gingivitis, N = 25; CP, N = 27). PI values were determined, and motivation and oral hygiene instructions were performed in Group B at baseline. PI measurements and OHSE questionnaire were repeated at 1 and 3 months.

Results

The intraclass reliability coefficient and Cronbach's alpha for Turkish translation of OHSE scale were 0.920 and 0.911. OHSE scores significantly correlated with GSE scores and smokers had lower OHSE scores than those of non‐smokers in patients (n = 210). In both gingivitis and CP groups, OHSE scores increased and PI values decreased at 3 months. PI values were lower in gingivitis and CP groups with OHSE‐high scores compared to patients with OHSE‐low scores at 3 months.

Conclusions

Within the limitations of this study, it seems that Turkish version of OHSE questionnaire is reliable and valid. Patients with OHSE‐low scores in both gingivitis and CP groups were less successful in performing daily plaque control, compared to patients with OHSE‐high scores.
Corrosion degradation of mullite subject to carbon monoxide atmosphere at 1000oC–1600°C
Authors: Xiang Ruofei , Li Yuanbing , Li Shujing , Xue Zhengliang , He Zhiyong , Wang Liwang , Wang Hailu
Published: February 2020

Thus far, studies on the damage to refractory materials under carbon monoxide atmospheres have mostly concentrated on the effects of carbon deposition, and the testing temperature was always set at approximately 500°C to promote the deposition of carbon. However, this testing temperature is far below the operating temperature of most refractories. In this study, mullite, a widely used high‐temperature structural material, was subjected to a carbon monoxide atmosphere at 1000°C‐1600°C to investigate its phase and microstructural evolutions. Changes to the grain boundaries were initially observed in mullite specimens treated at 1000°C and 1200°C. After treatment at 1400°C, the specimen surface comprised α‐Al2O3, a glass phase, and a small amount of mullite. However, treatment at 1600°C resulted in only α‐Al2O3 and a small amount of glass phase on the surface. Additionally, pores and voids were found in the glass phase on the surface and in the bulk of the specimens treated at 1400°C and 1600°C. This study demonstrated the stability of pure mullite in a carbon monoxide atmosphere and revealed that impurities accelerating generation of the liquid phase in Al2O3–SiO2 system significantly affect the stability of mullite in a carbon monoxide atmosphere.
The Time Dependence of Audit Firm Alumni Effects: Evidence from Audit Committees
Authors: Baumann Matthias F. , Ratzinger‐Sakel Nicole V. S.
Published: February 2020

This article empirically examines the time dependence of audit quality and audit fee effects resulting from the presence of audit firm alumni (AFA) on audit committees (ACs) in the German setting. Following the European Union's audit reform in 2014, the subject of this study is of particular importance, as European regulators have strengthened the position of ACs, while simultaneously restricting the presence of AFA on ACs. We find that the presence of AFA who have recently left their former employer on ACs is associated with higher audit quality, while we fail to find a significant effect on audit quality with regard to AFA who have left audit firms a longer period of time ago. In addition, the presence of AFA on ACs does not seem to affect audit fees. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to demonstrate time‐dependent AFA effects related to ACs.
Interventions commenced by early infancy to prevent childhood obesity—The EPOCH Collaboration: An individual participant data prospective meta‐analysis of four randomized controlled trials
Authors: Askie Lisa M , Espinoza David , Martin Andrew , Daniels Lynne A , Mihrshahi Seema , Taylor Rachael , Wen Li Ming , Campbell Karen , Hesketh Kylie D , Rissel Chris , Taylor Barry , Magarey Anthea , Seidler Anna Lene , Hunter Kylie E , Baur Louise A
Published: February 2020

Background

Childhood obesity is a significant global problem. Childhood obesity prevention interventions may be more effective when started very early in life before metabolic and behavioural patterns are established.

Methods and findings

A prospectively planned, individual participant data meta‐analysis of four randomized controlled trials. Participants were first‐time mothers of term infants. Trial interventions commenced during pregnancy or early infancy and comprised education and support delivered via group sessions and/or home visits. Control group families accessed existing local well‐child health care. The primary outcome was body mass index (BMI) z score at 18 to 24 months; 2196 mother‐child dyads were available for analysis. Intervention children had lower BMI z scores at 18 to 24 months than control children (−0.12 adjusted mean; 95% confidence interval, −0.22 to −0.02, P = .017). There was some evidence that the BMI z score reduction was greater in settings with limited well‐child health care programmes (interaction P value = .03). Improvements were also detected in television viewing time, feeding practices, and breastfeeding duration.

Conclusions

Parent‐focused intervention programmes that commence by early infancy and which aim to establish a trajectory of healthy lifestyle behaviours produced a modest but statistically significant reduction in BMI z score, which if replicated on a wider scale may have important public health implications.
Regulation and the future of work: The employment relationship as an innovation facilitator
Authors: ALOISI Antonio , DE STEFANO Valerio
Published: February 2020

Digital transformation and the reorganization of the firm have given rise to new forms of work that diverge significantly from the standard employment relationship. Advocates of digital disruption suggest that the existing legal framework cannot accommodate “innovative” working templates and business models. This article, however, argues that labour regulation can continue to facilitate innovation, presenting the employment relationship as a flexible instrument, and standard forms of employment as the means of achieving efficiencies and cost advantages. First, they allow for the full exercise of managerial prerogative and attendant internal flexibility in workforce deployment, and, second, they constitute an effective device to deliver training and develop skills.
A novel experimental model for studying efficacy of cryosurgery in keloids
Authors: Zouboulis V.A. , Zouboulis C.C.
Published: February 2020

Background

Intralesional cryosurgery is effective in the treatment of keloids; however, clinical studies have presented diversified results.

Objective

A novel, reproducible model for biophysical studies on intralesional cryosurgery of keloids is presented.

Methods

Triplicate studies with a cryosurgical needle on 37°C‐heated potatoes, which exhibit identical specific heat and similar heat conductivity with human skin, were performed.

Results

No complete potato freezing resulted through a cryosurgical needle. The limited tissue damage achieved had a double concave form. The needle induced lower temperature and stronger tissue damage at the distal exit than the proximal entrance site. The concave form of tissue damage flattened with time at the area under the needle. Needle freezing with puncture distances of 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 cm from the potato surface only revealed freezing temperatures within the 0.5 cm range. At any needle depth, tissue damage was detected at only an area to about 1 cm under the needle.

Conclusion

Clinical extrapolation of these experimental findings indicates a proper needle positioning towards the keloid basis, shows keloid volume freezing limitations by a single needle and corroborates the observations of minor epidermal and deep dermal damage induced by intralesional cryosurgery.
The National Psoriasis Foundation psoriasis treatment targets in real‐world patients: prevalence and association with patient‐reported outcomes in the Corrona Psoriasis Registry
Authors: Merola J.F. , Perez Chada L.M. , Siegel M. , Bagel J. , Evans C. , Lockshin B. , Mason M. , Guo N. , McLean R.R. , Greenberg J.D. , Van Voorhees A.S.
Published: February 2020

Introduction

The National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF) published treat‐to‐target guidelines for psoriasis, yet their applicability in clinical practice remains unknown.

Objectives

To estimate the proportion of psoriasis patients meeting the NPF's body surface area (BSA) ‘target’ (≤1%) and ‘acceptable’ (≤3%) response criteria and the cross‐sectional associations of these criteria with patient‐reported outcomes (PROs) in the Corrona Psoriasis Registry.

Methods

Separately for three independent cross‐sectional cohorts of patients at the (i) enrolment, (ii) 6‐month and (iii) 12‐month visits, we calculated the proportion of patients with BSA ≤1% and ≤3%. Furthermore, we calculated odds ratios estimating the risk of PROs associated with not meeting criteria in the 6‐month cohort.

Results

The enrolment, 6‐ and 12‐month cohorts included 2794, 1310 and 629 patients, respectively. At enrolment, 24% of patients had a BSA ≤ 1% and 41% a BSA ≤ 3%. In the 6‐month cohort, 43%/64% had a BSA ≤ 1%/BSA ≤ 3%. In the 12‐month cohort, 46%/69% of patients had a BSA ≤ 1%/BSA ≤ 3%. Patients not at target/acceptable criteria had higher odds for worse quality of life compared with those who were.

Conclusion

While most patients at 6‐ and 12‐month visits were at the ‘acceptable’ response, less than half were at the ‘target’ response despite systemic therapy. There remain unmet needs to optimize psoriasis therapy and further validate current treat‐to‐target guidelines.
Effects of constant light exposure on sphingolipidomics and progression of NASH in high‐fat‐fed rats
Authors: Yue Fangzhi , Xia Ke , Wei Lin , Xing Lin , Wu Shanyu , Shi Ying , Lam Sin Man , Shui Guanghou , Xiang Xingwei , Russell Ryan , Zhang Dongmei
Published: February 2020

Background and Aim

Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a growing public health concern worldwide. With the progression of urbanization, light pollution is becoming an inevitable risk factor for NAFLD. However, the role of light pollution on NAFLD is insufficiently understood, and the underlying mechanism remains unclear. The present study explored effects of constant light exposure on NAFLD and elucidated its related mechanisms.

Methods

Thirty‐two male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into four groups (n = 8 each): (i) rats on a normal diet exposed to standard light–dark cycle (ND‐LD); (ii) rats on a normal diet exposed to constant light (ND‐LL); (iii) rats on a high‐fat diet exposed to standard light–dark cycle (HFD‐LD); and (iv) and rats on a high‐fat diet exposed to constant light (HFD‐LL). After 12 weeks of treatment, rats were sacrificed and pathophysiological assessments were performed. Targeted lipidomics was used to measure sphingolipids, including ceramides, glucosylceramides, and lactosylceramides, sphingomyelins, and sphingosine‐1‐phosphates in plasma and liver tissues.

Results

In normal chow rats, constant light exposure led to glucose abnormalities and dyslipidemia. In high‐fat‐fed rats, constant light exposure exacerbated glucose abnormalities, dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, and inflammation and aggravated steatohepatitis. Compared with HFD‐LD rats, HFD‐LL had decreased plasma sphingosine‐1‐phosphate and elevated liver concentrations of total ceramide and specific ceramide species (ceramide d18:0/24:0, ceramide d18:1/22:0, ceramide d18:1/24:0, and ceramide d18:1/24:1), which were associated with increased hepatocyte apoptosis.

Conclusions

Constant light exposure causes dysregulation of sphingolipids and promotes steatohepatitis in high‐fat‐fed rats.
Longitudinal relationship between the child value, parenting stress, and controlling parenting attitudes and the self‐esteem of children: Applying the actor‐partner interdependence model (APIM) using a latent growth model
Authors: Han Jeong‐Won , Lee Hanna
Published: February 2020

Aim

This is a descriptive longitudinal study conducted to identify the effects of the perception of child value by parents on parenting stress, controlling parenting attitudes, and children's self‐esteem.

Methods

The present study targeted parents aged 19 years or older and their children who participated in the fourth through to the eighth Panel Study on Korean Children. The study examined the longitudinal relationship of the effect of parental factors on self‐esteem in children, and applied an actor‐partner interdependent model to analyze the effect of interactions with parents.

Results

The paternal instrumental value had a partner effect on the rate of change in maternal parenting stress, while the maternal instrumental value of children had an actor effect on the rate of change in maternal parenting stress. The baseline value of parenting stress had an actor effect on the baseline value of controlling parenting attitudes, while the rate of change in maternal parenting stress had a partner effect on paternal controlling parenting attitudes and an actor effect on the rate of change in maternal controlling parenting attitudes. The baseline value and rate of change in controlling parenting attitudes were found to influence self‐esteem in children.

Conclusion

Reducing parenting stress by increasing the parents' positive perception of the value of children can be helpful in maintaining a consistent parenting attitude by parents, which can have a positive effect on self‐esteem in children. It is important to provide intervention and management of variables related to self‐esteem in children using a long‐term and multidimensional approach.
Three‐dimensional analysis of the segmental arrangement of lower lung lobes in human fetuses: is this arrangement a miniature version of adult morphology?
Authors: Cai Peiyun , You Yaqian , Jin Zhe‐Wu , Murakami Gen , Wilting Jőrg , Hayashi Shogo , Rodríguez‐Vázquez Jose Francisco
Published: February 2020

Knowledge of the lung segment system is essential for understanding human anatomy and has great clinical relevance. The arrangement of 11 segments, including the S* or subsuperior segment, and its individual variations, are considered to be the same in fetal and adult lungs. The present study assessed the topographical anatomy of lower segmental and subsegmental bronchi by computer‐assisted three‐dimensional imaging of serial sagittal sections of both lungs of 22 embryos and fetuses of gestational age 6–7 weeks (crown–rump length 15.0–28.5 mm). Long inferior courses of B8b (basal) and B10c (medial) were observed in sagittal sections of both lungs. B8a (lateral) and B10b (lateral) in the right lungs were consistently underdeveloped, with S9 occupying most of the lateral half of the lower lobe. In some samples, B6b (lateral) did not reach the lateral surface. The lateral dominance of S9 was also seen in the left lungs. Some B* candidates were present, but B7 candidates were absent. Lateral and posterior expansions of S6b, S8a and S10b to cover S9 were observed in additional midterm and near‐term lung sections, indicating that the original S9 dominance was 'corrected' by an increase in lung volume. Delayed growth of the lower lateral subsegments might induce mechanical stress, resulting in aberrant notches or fissures, such as those separating an independent posterior lobe. The segmental arrangement of fetal lungs was not stable, but was altered over a long fetal period after the complete subsegmental division of the bronchi, except for the minor bronchi B* and B7.
Recent advances in the histopathological assessment of salivary disease
Authors: Chegini Soudeh , Brennan Peter A. , Rahimi Siavash , Shakib Kaveh
Published: February 2020

Background

Salivary gland disease includes a wide range of unique and rare conditions that are treated by ear, nose and throat (ENT), oral and maxillofacial surgeons (OMFS) and oral medicine specialists. Histopathological diagnosis is pivotal to making a diagnosis and treatment planning. There is a vast range of conditions and controversies in the histopathological assessment of salivary gland diseases. Most colleagues in oral pathology and oral medicine work closely with the OMFS but might have missed some of the recent articles published by the speciality.

Methods

We reviewed articles thought to be relevant to oral medicine and pathology specialists published over an 8‐year period between 2012 and 2019 in the leading British Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (BJOMS).

Results

A total of 44 published articles relating to the histopathology of salivary glands disease were selected. Papers were published on population studies, benign and malignant tumours, sialadenitis, metastasis to the parotid gland and cytology. The publication type and numbers published were as follows: review (n = 9), meta‐analysis/randomised controlled study (n = 1), retrospective study (n = 10) and case report/technical notes (n = 23).

Conclusions

The greatest proportion of publications published in BJOMS were case reports. This emphasises the paucity of consensus and the need for development in this field. Salivary gland disease remains an area with many controversies and would benefit from further research.
Evaluation of analytical and statistical approaches for predicting in vitro nitrogen solubility and in vivo pre‐caecal crude protein digestibility of cereal grains in growing pigs
Authors: Rosenfelder‐Kuon Pia , Krieg Jochen , Sauer Nadja , Eklund Meike , Spindler Hanna Katharina , Strang Elisa Johanna Pauline , Siegert Wolfgang , Rodehutscord Markus , Schenkel Hans , Mosenthin Rainer
Published: February 2020

Different analytical (enzyme system and near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIRS)) and statistical (single and multiple regressions) approaches were used to predict in vivo standardized pre‐caecal digestibility (PCD) of crude protein (CP) and amino acids (AA) in cereal grains for growing pigs as well as in vitro nitrogen (N) solubility. Furthermore, different chemical and physical characteristics were categorized (e.g. crude nutrients, AA, minerals, fibre components or combinations of these) and used for generating prediction equations. There were strong linear relationships (p < .05) between in vivo PCD of CP and essential AA and in vitro N solubility when grain species was considered as covariate in the model. Predicting in vivo PCD values using various chemical and physical characteristics produced inconsistent results among different grain species and AA and could therefore not be used for predicting PCD. It is possible to predict in vitro N solubility from chemical and physical characteristics for some grain species. However, the relationships between some of these categories and the in vitro N solubility were not consistent and not always causative or physiologically explainable. The R2 of NIRS for predicting in vitro N solubility was at a relatively high level (up to R2 = 0.80). This level of R2 indicates that a classification of the grain samples in, for example, high, medium and low in vitro N solubility levels is possible, but it does not allow for a quantitative prediction of the in vitro N solubility. In conclusion, the present database can be used for establishing a ranking of different cereal grain species for PCD of CP and essential AA values. However, it was not possible to create clear prediction equations for in vivo or in vitro digestibility values. Therefore, greater variation within grain species, for example due to different growing and harvesting conditions, is warranted for predicting PCD values of individual grain samples.
Techniques to Improve Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Roberts Joan E.
Published: February 2020

Photodynamic therapy [dye‐light therapy] is an excellent technique for use in detection and treatment of cancerous tissues. While this therapy is effective, it is limited by the phototoxic reactions that can occur in the surrounding normal tissues. These damaging side effects are of particular importance when treating neurosensory organs, such as the human eye. We report here new treatment strategies to enhance photodynamic effectiveness while limiting side effects to normal tissues.
Mixing source populations increases genetic diversity of restored rare plant populations
Authors: St. Clair Adrienne Basey , Dunwiddie Peter W. , Fant Jeremie B. , Kaye Thomas N. , Kramer Andrea T.
Published: February 2020

The genetic diversity of germplasm used in reintroduction and restoration efforts can influence how resulting populations establish, reproduce, and evolve over time, particularly in disturbed and changing conditions. Regional admixture provenancing, mixing seeds derived from multiple populations within the same region as the target site, has been suggested to produce genetically diverse germplasm. Yet little empirical evidence shows how genetic diversity in germplasm resulting from this approach compares to source populations, or how it varies in restored populations. Here, we use neutral molecular markers to follow genetic diversity through production and use of germplasm when mixing multiple source populations in nursery production beds. Castilleja levisecta is a rare species experiencing inbreeding depression in remaining populations, with a federal recovery plan requiring the re‐establishment of populations in areas where it has been extirpated. Specifically, we track diversity from wild‐collected source populations through different production approaches and reintroductions using two propagule types. We show that measures of genetic diversity, inbreeding, and relatedness change during the production and use of material produced with a regional admixture provenancing approach, with the step at which source populations are mixed and germplasm type used influencing whether all source populations are equally represented. While genetic diversity increased throughout the process, inbreeding and relatedness increased in nursery production beds but decreased in reintroductions, with the lowest inbreeding and relatedness in populations restored using seeds rather than plugs. The results highlight the importance of taking an integrated approach informed by research when planning and implementing reintroductions with mixed‐source germplasm.
Material irreligion: The role of media in atheist studies
Authors: Chalfant Eric
Published: February 2020

Despite the material turn in the study of religion and the humanities and social sciences more broadly, many scholars still tend to treat atheism as a purely intellectual or philosophical position. Recent scholarship has begun to seriously examine the emotional, material, and sociopolitical bases of contemporary and historical atheism, but more work remains to be done. In particular, scholars of atheism need to pay close attention to the role of media in the emergence of atheism as a collective self‐identity. Atheism appears particularly vulnerable to a scholarly cognitivist bias that overemphasizes the importance of religious belief or lack thereof. Media studies, by emphasizing the importance of materiality in the fashioning of human subjects, can provide an important corrective to this bias.
Equality for women in respiratory and sleep medicine in the Asia‐Pacific region: Opportunities for change
Authors: Smallwood Natasha , Rees Megan
Published: February 2020

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