bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Targeted information and limited attention
Authors: Hefti Andreas , Liu Shuo
Published: June 2020

We examine the implications of limited consumer attention for the targeting decisions of competing firms. Limited attention alters the strategic role of information provision as firms may become incentivized to behave as mass advertisers, despite perfect targeting abilities. We analyze the consequences of limited attention for targeting, strategic pricing, market shares, attention competition between firms, and the value of marketing data to firms. Accounting for limited attention in an otherwise standard targeting framework can explain several recent key issues from the advertising industry, such as consumer‐side information overload or the increased usage of ad blocking tools.
pXRF method development for elemental analysis of archaeological soil
Authors: Williams R. , Taylor G. , Orr C.
Published: June 2020

Portable X‐ray fluorescence (pXRF) is now widely used for detecting the elemental composition of a material. Elemental analysis can enhance archaeological interpretations, such as mapping, preservation analysis and identifying anthropogenic activities. However, validated and reproducible protocols for analysing archaeological soil are still required. The elemental concentrations detected with three sets of preparation methods were compared:in‐situ(no preparation), in‐field (analysing through plastic bags) andex‐situanalysis (laboratory‐based preparation). Influential factors were also investigated: calibration parameter, moisture, homogeneity, sieve size and soil type. In‐field analysis attempted to improve reliability without offsite processing, but instead substantially reduced elemental concentrations and skewed the proportional distributions.Ex‐situanalysis significantly increased elemental concentrations and reduced variation. Proportional distribution was different between the three methods, but unchanged following homogenizing and sieving. These comparisons demonstrated thatex‐situanalysis maximizes detection and ensures consistent samples.
Fear of illness recurrence and mental health anxiety in people recovering from psychosis and common mental health problems
Authors: Jamalamadaka Taruna , Griffith Emma , Steer Hannah , Salkovskis Paul
Published: June 2020

Objectives

It is well known that mental health problems can recur even after effective treatment, leading to an understandable fear of illness recurrence (FIR) and mental health anxiety (MHA). These may themselves contribute to the process of relapse. This study aims to examine whether people recovering from psychosis have greater FIR than those recovering from common mental health problems or healthy controls. The study also hypothesized that there will be a relationship between FIR and MHA and that both these constructs will be associated with maladaptive coping behaviours. Finally, the relationship between mental defeat with FIR and psychological distress (anxiety and depression) will be examined.

Method

A cross‐sectional questionnaire design was employed. Thirty‐nine participants in recovery from psychosis, eighty‐two in recovery from other mental health difficulties, and sixty‐one healthy controls aged 18–73 were recruited from NHS services and via social media. Self‐report questionnaires measured mental defeat, mental health anxiety, fear of illness recurrence, maladaptive coping behaviours, and psychological distress.

Results

Those recovering from psychosis were found to more negatively evaluate the likely consequences of relapse than those recovering from common mental health problems or healthy controls. However, the levels of FIR in common mental health problems were also significantly elevated when compared to healthy controls. There were no other differences between these groups (in terms of mental defeat, anxiety, depression, social functioning, and maladaptive coping behaviours). The hypothesized relationship between FIR and MHA was also found, and both were associated with maladaptive coping behaviours. Mental defeat was associated with FIR and psychological distress (anxiety and depression).

Conclusions

This study found that those with psychosis experienced higher FIR than those with common mental health problems. Furthermore, people defining themselves as in recovery are worried about relapse and the extent of this is linked to mental health anxiety. Given that such responses may contribute to actual relapse, it is important that these issues are better understood and interventions developed to ameliorate them.

Practitioner points

Following recovery, fear of relapse may be particularly high in those with experience of psychosis; it is also present in those with common mental health problems

The importance of this observation lies in the issue that anxiety about relapse may initiate a self‐fulfilling process, with increased anxiety worsening symptoms and vice versa.

Cognitive‐behavioural therapy for health anxiety may be beneficial to those experiencing high levels of mental health anxiety.

Cognitions related to relapse need to be explored and addressed both in further research and, when clearly identified, may be a target during relapse‐prevention planning.
Filanesib in combination with pomalidomide and dexamethasone in refractory MM patients: safety and efficacy, and association with alpha 1‐acid glycoprotein (AAG) levels. Phase Ib/II Pomdefil clinical trial conducted by the Spanish MM group
Authors: Ocio Enrique M. , Motlló Cristina , Rodríguez‐Otero Paula , Martínez‐López Joaquín , Cejalvo Mª José , Martín‐Sánchez Jesús , Bladé Joan , García‐Malo Mª Dolores , Dourdil Mª Victoria , García‐Mateo Aránzazu , de Arriba Felipe , García‐Sanz Ramón , de la Rubia Javier , Oriol Albert , Lahuerta Juan‐José , San‐Miguel Jesús F. , Mateos María‐Victoria
Published: June 2020

This phase I/II trial evaluated the combination of the kinesin spindle protein inhibitor filanesib with pomalidomide and dexamethasone in relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM) patients. Forty‐seven RRMM patients with a median of three prior lines (2–8) and 94% refractory to lenalidomide were included: 14 in phase I and 33 in phase II. The recommended dose was 1·25 mg/m2 of filanesib on days 1, 2, 15, 16, with pomalidomide 4 mg on days 1–21 and dexamethasone 40 mg weekly. The defined threshold for success was achieved, with 18 out of 31 patients obtaining at least minor response (MR) in the phase II. In the global population, 51% of patients achieved at least partial response (PR) and 60% ≥MR, resulting in a median progression‐free survival (mPFS) of seven months and overall survival (OS) of 19 months. The main toxicity was haematological. Importantly, patients with low serum levels of alpha 1‐acid glycoprotein (AAG) at baseline (<800 mg/l) had a superior response (overall response rate of 62% vs. 17%; P = 0·04), which also translated into a longer mPFS (9 vs. 2 months; P = 0·014). In summary, filanesib with pomalidomide and dexamethasone is active in RRMM although with significant haematological toxicity. Most importantly, high levels of AAG can identify patients unlikely to respond to this strategy.

Trial registration: clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT02384083.
Prognostic scoring systems and comorbidities in chronic myelomonocytic leukaemia: a nationwide population‐based study
Authors: Moreno Berggren Daniel , Kjellander Matilda , Backlund Ellen , Engvall Marie , Garelius Hege , Lorenz Fryderyk , Nilsson Lars , Rasmussen Bengt , Lehmann Sören , Hellström‐Lindberg Eva , Jädersten Martin , Ungerstedt Johanna , Ejerblad Elisabeth
Published: June 2020

Outcomes in chronic myelomonocytic leukaemia (CMML) are highly variable and may be affected by comorbidity. Therefore, prognostic models and comorbidity indices are important tools to estimate survival and to guide clinicians in individualising treatment. In this nationwide population‐based study, we assess comorbidities and for the first time validate comorbidity indices in CMML. We also compare the prognostic power of: the revised International Prognostic Scoring System (IPSS‐R), CMML‐specific prognostic scoring system (CPSS), MD Anderson Prognostic Scoring System (MDAPS) and Mayo score. In this cohort of 337 patients with CMML, diagnosed between 2009 and 2015, the median overall survival was 21·3 months. Autoimmune conditions were present in 25% of the patients, with polymyalgia rheumatica and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis being most common. Of the tested comorbidity indices: the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), Haematopoietic cell transplantation‐specific Comorbidity Index (HCT‐CI) and Myelodysplastic Syndrome‐Specific Comorbidity Index (MDS‐CI), CCI had the highest C‐index (0·62) and was the only comorbidity index independently associated with survival in multivariable analyses. When comparing the prognostic power of the scoring systems, the CPSS had the highest C‐index (0·69). In conclusion, using ‘real‐world’ data we found that the CCI and CPSS have the best prognostic power and that autoimmune conditions are overrepresented in CMML.
Comparative cohort study of volumetric modulated arc therapy for squamous cell cancer of unknown primary in the head and neck—Involved neck only versus mucosal irradiation
Authors: Poon Wai‐Yan , Thomson Maureen , McLoone Philip , Wilson Christina , Crosbie Robin , Schipani Stefano , Grose Derek , James Allan , Lamb Carolynn , Rizwanullah Mohammed , Campbell Frances , Easton Fiona , Paterson Claire
Published: June 2020

Objectives

Target volumes for irradiation remain ill‐defined for squamous cell cancer of unknown primary in the head and neck (SCCUP). The aim of this study was to compare involved neck only (INO) radiotherapy (RT) with irradiating involved neck plus potential mucosal primary sites and contralateral neck (MUC) in patients diagnosed and treated with modern diagnostics and techniques.

Design

This is a retrospective cohort study. Patients with a diagnosis of SCCUP with unilateral neck disease were included.

Results

Thirty patients were identified. All underwent FDG PET‐CT. 47% of patients had HPV‐positive SCC. 20 patients received RT to INO, 10 patients to MUC, all with volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT). A significantly lower dose for each organ at risk was delivered in INO‐treated patients, with mean dose to contralateral parotid gland 57% less. The proportion of patients with late grade 2 or worse xerostomia was higher in MUC patients. The incidence of grade 2‐3 mucositis (89% vs 45%) and grade 3 or worse dysphagia (50% vs 10%) was higher in MUC patients. Median follow‐up was 31 months. No mucosal primaries emerged. Progression‐free survival at 2 years was 74.7% for INO patients, 70% in the MUC group. Overall survival at 2 years was 79.7% in the INO group and 70% in the MUC patients.

Conclusion

INO radiotherapy for patients with SCCUP of the head and neck is a safe treatment strategy resulting in clinically significant lower RT doses to OARS. Acute and late toxicities are reduced without detriment to patient survival.
The screening role of a biomarker panel in BALF among patients with cancer‐suspected pulmonary nodules less than 8 mm
Authors: Xiong Wei , Ding Wei , Xu Mei , Pudasaini Bigyan , Sun Jinyuan , Zhao Yunfeng
Published: June 2020

Background

It is intractable to differentiate the malignancy from benignancy of cancer‐suspected pulmonary nodules less than 8 mm.

Methods

The patients with small pulmonary nodules less than 8 mm which were suspected to be primary lung cancer underwent bronchoscopy and bronchoalveolar lavage. The level of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), transforming growth factor‐beta (TGF‐β) and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were assayed. Then, all patients underwent histopathological examination by means of surgical resection of nodules to determine their benignancy or malignancy. The nodules’ benignancy and malignancy suggested by the biomarker panel consisted of VEGF, TGF‐β and HGF in BALF were validated by the histopathological results to determine their screening efficiency.

Results

Among 405 patients with pulmonary nodules less than 8 mm, 252 and 153 were predicted to be malignant and benignant, respectively, by using the biomarker panel in BALF. Finally, 180 (71.4%) of 252 and 114 (74.5%) of 153 were validated to be truly malignant and benignant, respectively, according to the histopathological results. In a receiver operating characteristic curve analysis of screening efficiency for pulmonary nodules less than 8 mm, the results demonstrated that the AUC [0.807 (0.658‐0.882)] of the biomarker panel in BALF was higher compared with that [0.605 (0.433‐0.738)] of the biomarker panel in blood (P = .001).

Conclusions

For patients with cancer‐suspected pulmonary nodules less 8 mm, a biomarker panel of VEGF, TGF‐β and HGF in BALF demonstrated more eligible screening efficiency for the preliminary differentiation of malignancy from benignancy, by contrast with their level in blood as well as PET/CT.
Does previous experience enhance foraging on a particular host in a polyphagous frugivore?
Authors: Silva Rehan , Clarke Anthony R.
Published: June 2020

Prior oviposition or feeding experience with a host plant has been proposed to improve foraging efficiency for polyphagous insect herbivores. Many laboratory‐based experiments have attributed certain modified behavioural responses, such as an improved ability to locate a host, as evidence for the benefits of learning. However, few studies have considered the negative ramifications of learning, particularly under field conditions rather than laboratory conditions. In the current study, using the polyphagous fruit fly Bactrocera tryoni (Froggatt) (Diptera: Tephritidae), we explore both the positive and negative consequences of modified host selection resulting from prior oviposition experience. In field cage experiments, prior oviposition experience on a given host increased the selection of that host despite its abundance and its suitability for offspring development. For example, in a field cage that contained significantly more blueberry (poor larval host) than guava (good larval host), prior experience on guava resulted in more flies selecting and accepting guava than did naïve flies (a presumed positive foraging outcome). However, the opposite also held, that prior experience on blueberry led to increased blueberry use, even when guava was more abundant. In unrestrained flies, prior experience dramatically improved recapture rate with flies locating the training fruit. The results highlight the potential benefits of learning, but also identify that learning can be a disadvantage if prior experience on a poor host leads to flies repeatedly using that host over a more suitable host.
Miller‐Fisher syndrome after SARS‐CoV‐2 infection
Authors: Reyes‐Bueno J. A. , García‐Trujillo L. , Urbaneja P. , Ciano‐Petersen N. L. , Postigo‐Pozo M. J. , Martínez‐Tomás C. , Serrano‐Castro P. J.
Published: June 2020

Introduction

On March 11th, 2020, the WHO declared the SARS‐Cov‐2 pandemic. Syndromes have been detected in relation to COVID‐19 such as encephalitis, acute necrotizing hemorrhagic encephalopathy and cerebrovascular complications. There are also cases of peripheral nervous system involvement.

Methods

Our case would be the 3rd patient with MFS associated with COVID‐19 as far as we know.

Results

We present a 51 years old female diagnosed with MFS two weeks after COVID‐19. RTPCR to SARS‐CoV‐2 was negative but IgG was positive.

Conclusion

Most of the cases were mild or moderate with typical signs and symptoms. All were treated with IV immunoglobulin with good response in most cases. Despite the short evolution time of the cases surviving the current pandemic, the description of cases of post‐infectious neurological syndromes suggests that this is probably not an infrequent complication in the subacute stage of Covid‐19 disease.
Effects of extending duration of exposure to curing light and different measurement methods on depth‐of‐cure analyses of conventional and bulk‐fill composites
Authors: de Cássia Romano Beatriz , Soto‐Montero Jorge , Rueggeberg Frederick A. , Giannini Marcelo
Published: June 2020

This study evaluated the effect of extending the duration of exposure to curing light on the depth of cure of two conventional (RBC1‐conventional and RBC2‐conventional) and two bulk‐fill (RBC1‐bulk and RBC2‐bulk) resin composites. Polywave and single‐peak photocuring units were used. Cylinder‐shaped specimens were exposed to curing light either for the time period recommended by the manufacturer or twice the length of that time, and depth of cure was estimated using manual scraping (similar to the ISO‐4049 standard) and solvent immersion techniques. Depth of cure was analyzed, using two‐way ANOVA, for the factors measurement method and exposure time. For RBC1‐conventional and RBC1‐bulk, the solvent immersion technique estimated a greater depth of cure than did manual scraping; for RBC1‐conventional, both techniques and both light‐exposure time periods resulted in a depth of cure of >2 mm; and for RBC1‐bulk, only the solvent method after photocuring for twice the manufacturer’s recommended time resulted in a depth of cure of 5 mm. For RBC2‐conventional and RBC2‐bulk, neither technique nor exposure time resulted in estimated depths of cure that matched those indicated by the manufacturer. The results suggest that extending the duration of photopolymerization increases depth of cure. Also, calculation of depth of cure can vary according to the measurement technique used.
Vulnerability of rangeland beef cattle production to climate‐induced NPP fluctuations in the US Great Plains
Authors: Klemm Toni , Briske David D. , Reeves Matthew C.
Published: June 2020

The vulnerability of rangeland beef cattle production to increasing climate variability in the US Great Plains has received minimal attention in spite of potentially adverse socioeconomic and ecological consequences. Vulnerability was assessed as the frequency and magnitude of years in which net primary production (NPP) deviated >±25% from mean values, to represent major forage surplus and deficit years, for a historic reference period (1981–2010), mid‐century (2041–2065), and late‐century (2075–2099) periods. NPP was simulated by MC2, a dynamic global vegetation model, driven by five climate projections for representative concentration pathway (RCP) 4.5 and 8.5. Historically, 4–4.7 years per decade showed either NPP surpluses or deficits. The future number of extreme years increased to 5.4–6.4 and 5.9–6.9 per decade for RCP 4.5 and 8.5, respectively, which represents an increase of 33%–56% and 38%–73%, respectively. Future simulations exhibited increases in surplus years to between 3 and 5 years in the Northern Plains and 3–3.5 in the Southern Plains. The number of deficit years remained near historic values of 2 in the Northern Plains, but increased in the Southern Plains from 2.5 to 3.3 per decade. Historically, NPP in extreme surplus and deficit years both deviated 40% from mean NPP in all three regions. The magnitude of deficit years increased by 6%–17% in future simulations for all three regions, while the magnitude of surplus years decreased 16% in the Northern Plains and increased 16% in the Southern Plains. The Southern Plains was the only region to exhibit an increase in the magnitude of both surplus and deficit years. Unprecedented future variability of NPP may surpass the existing adaptive capacity of beef producers and adversely impact the economic viability of rangeland cattle production and ecological sustainability of rangeland resources.
Thermal diversity of North American ant communities: Cold tolerance but not heat tolerance tracks ecosystem temperature
Authors: Bujan Jelena , Roeder Karl A. , de Beurs Kirsten , Weiser Michael D. , Kaspari Michael
Published: June 2020

Aim

In ectotherms, gradients of environmental temperature can regulate metabolism, development and ultimately fitness. The thermal adaptation hypothesis assumes that thermoregulation is costly and predicts that more thermally variable environments favour organisms with wider thermal ranges and thermal limits (i.e., critical thermal minima and maxima, CTmin and CTmax) which track environmental temperatures. We test the thermal adaptation hypothesis at two biological levels of organization, the community and species level.

Location

Continental USA.

Time period

May–August 2016 and May–August 2017.

Major taxa studied

Ants (Hymenoptera:Formicidae).

Methods

We used ramping assays to measure CTmax and CTmin for 132 species of North American ants across 31 communities spanning 15.7° of latitude.

Results

Ants were cold tolerant in cooler environments particularly at the community level where CTmin was positively correlated with the maximum monthly temperature (CTmin = 0.24Tmax − 0.4; R2 = .39, p < .001). In contrast, most ant communities included some highly thermophilic species, with the result that CTmax did not covary with environmental temperature means or extremes. Consequently, we found no evidence that thermally variable environments supported ant communities with broader thermal ranges. We found a strong phylogenetic signal in CTmax but not CTmin. Species level responses paralleled community data, where maximum monthly temperatures positively correlated with species CTmin but not CTmax, which was significantly lower in subterranean species.

Main conclusions

Our results suggest a large fraction of continental trait diversity in CTmax and CTmin can be found in a given ant community, with species with high CTmax widely distributed regardless of environmental temperature. Species level analyses found the importance of local microclimate and seasonality in explaining thermal tolerances. Frequent invariance in CTmax of insects at a large scale might be caused by (a) local adaptations to a site's microclimates and (b) species acclimation potential, both of which cannot be accounted for with mean annual temperatures.
The influence of time and irrigant refreshment on biofilm removal from lateral morphological features of simulated root canals
Authors: Pereira T. C. , Dijkstra R. J. B. , Petridis X. , van der Meer W. J. , Sharma P. K. , de Andrade F. B. , van der Sluis L. W. M.
Published: June 2020

Aim

To evaluate the effect of irrigant refreshment and exposure time of a 2% sodium hypochlorite solution (NaOCl) on biofilm removal from simulated lateral root canal spaces using two different flow rates.

Methodology

A dual‐species biofilm was formed by a Constant Depth Film Fermenter (CDFF) for 96 h in plug inserts with anatomical features resembling an isthmus or lateral canal‐like structures. The inserts were placed in a root canal model facing the main canal. NaOCl 2% and demineralized water (control group) were used as irrigant solutions. Both substances were applied at a flow rate of 0.05 and 0.1 mL s−1. The samples were divided into three groups with zero, one or two refreshments in a total exposure time of 15 min. A three‐way analysis of variance (anova) was performed to investigate the interaction amongst the independent variables and the effect of consecutive irrigant refreshment on percentage of biofilm removal. A Tukey post hoc test was used to evaluate the effect of each independent variable on percentage biofilm removal in the absence of statistically significant interactions.

Results

For the lateral canal, NaOCl removed significantly more biofilm irrespective of the number of refreshments and exposure time (P = 0.005). There was no significant effect in biofilm removal between the consecutive irrigant refreshments measured in the same biofilm. For the isthmus, NaOCl removed significantly more biofilm irrespective of the number of refreshments and exposure time; both NaOCl and a high flow rate removed significantly more biofilm when the exposure time was analysed (P = 0.018 and P = 0.029, respectively). Evaluating the effect of consecutive irrigant refreshment on the same biofilm, 2% NaOCl, 0.1 mL s−1 flow rate and one or two refreshments removed significant more biofilm (P = 0.04, 0.034 and 0.003, <0.001, respectively).

Conclusions

In this model, refreshment did not improve biofilm removal from simulated lateral root canal spaces. NaOCl removed more biofilm from the lateral canal‐ and isthmus‐like structure. A higher flow rate removed significantly more biofilm from the isthmus‐like structure. There was always remaining biofilm left after the irrigation procedures.
The auditor reputation cycle: A synthesis of the literature
Authors: Bergner Jason , Marquardt Blair B. , Mohapatra Partha
Published: June 2020

The auditor reputation hypothesis states that auditors conduct high‐quality audits to build a positive reputation in the marketplace so that they can retain clients and earn fee premiums. We consolidate the dispersed literature on this hypothesis and introduce a framework that presents auditor reputation as a cycle. The overall conclusions support the predictions of our framework regarding reputation as an incentive for audit quality. However, challenges remain in isolating and quantifying the impact. We observe moderating factors on both the supply and demand sides. We also find that existing research has emphasized certain aspects of our framework while addressing others more sparsely. Relatively little is known about how audit firms earn their reputation or how they rebuild it after an audit failure. Mixed evidence in some areas, along with research gaps in the framework, provides opportunities for future research on auditor reputation. Our framework can guide these endeavors.
Organization capital and audit fees around the world
Authors: Habib Ahsan , Hasan Mostafa Monzur , Sun Xuan Sean
Published: June 2020

We examine whether auditors consider organization capital in audit pricing decisions. Utilizing an international sample from 40 countries spanning the period 2001–2017, we find that firms with high levels of organization capital pay high audit fees: a finding that is consistent with both the risk‐ and the agency‐based arguments for audit pricing. Additionally, our results indicate that the positive relationship between organization capital and audit fees is reinforced in firms with pronounced business risks and agency problems, whereas it is relatively weak in countries with protective employment legislation. Our study contributes to the voluminous literature on the determinants of audit fees by showing that auditors price the risks related to clients' intangible assets, especially those embodied in a firm's key talents. Our study also contributes to the scarce literature on the effects of organization capital in international markets.
The study of hair follicle counts from scalp histopathology in the Thai population
Authors: Visessiri Yingluck , Pakornphadungsit Kallapan , Leerunyakul Kanchana , Rutnin Suthinee , Srisont Smith , Suchonwanit Poonkiat
Published: June 2020

Background

The horizontal section of a scalp specimen offers an advantage over a vertical section by providing quantitative information. The reference data for hair counts in Asians, including Thais, are inconclusive. We aimed to determine the normal values of hair counts in scalp biopsy specimens in the Thai population.

Methods

A 4‐mm punch biopsy was performed at the occipital area of the scalp from subjects presenting with clinically normal hair and scalp appearance. All specimens were horizontally sectioned and observed to assess the number of follicular units and hair follicles, type of hairs, and phase of the hair cycle. The results were further compared between sexes and with the pre‐existing data from previous studies.

Results

Ninety specimens were collected from 90 subjects. The average number of total hairs, terminal hairs, vellus hairs, and follicular units per 4‐mm punch scalp skin were 20.5 ± 5.2, 18.2 ± 4.1, 2 (range 0–7), and 9.1 ± 1.6, respectively. The mean ratio of terminal to vellus hair was 8.9:1 and of anagen to telogen hair was 91.9:7.9. There were no gender differences in any of the parameters and no correlations with changing age. Compared to other Asian populations, Thais and Taiwanese showed intermediate values between Iranians and Koreans; when compared to other ethnic groups, hair density in Asians showed lower than Caucasians and Hispanics but was comparable to Africans.

Conclusion

This study established reference values of scalp horizontal sections in the Thai population; this will be helpful for clinicians and researchers to evaluate hair disorders.
Composition and annealing effects on the linear electro‐optic response of solution‐deposited barium strontium titanate
Authors: Edmondson Bryce I. , Kwon Sunah , Ortmann John E. , Demkov Alexander A. , Kim Moon J. , Ekerdt John G.
Published: June 2020

Chemical solution deposition was used to deposit epitaxial BaxSr(1−x)TiO3 thin films on SrTiO3 template layers on Si(001) for x = 1.0, 0.7, 0.5, 0.3, and 0.0. Effective Pockels coefficients were determined as a function of film composition both for as‐deposited films (crystallized at 600°C) and for the films after annealing at 750°C for 10 hours. Pockels response decreased monotonically with decreasing Ba content and coefficients were higher for annealed films, reaching 89 ± 3 pm/V for annealed BaTiO3. These results are contextualized with the aid of X‐ray diffraction and high‐resolution transmission microscopy, which illuminated the crystallinity and defect nature of the films.
Histamine and cholesterol lowering abilities of lactic acid bacteria isolated from artisanal Pico cheese
Authors: Domingos-Lopes M.F.P. , Stanton C. , Ross R.P. , Silva C.C.G.
Published: June 2020

Aims

This study was designed to select lactic acid bacteria with histamine- and cholesterol-reducing abilities to be used as potential probiotics.

Methods and Results

Thirty strains of lactic acid bacteria isolated from an artisanal raw milk cheese were screened for their abilities to degrade histamine, reduce cholesterol and hydrolyse bile salts. Strains were also screened for safety and probiotic traits, such as resistance to gastrointestinal conditions, adhesion to Caco-2 cells, resistance to antibiotics and presence of virulence genes. Two Lactobacillus paracasei strains presented high cholesterol- and histamine-lowering abilities, tested negative for the presence of virulence genes and showed susceptibility to most important antibiotics. These strains were also shown to possess desirable in vitro probiotic properties, revealed by tolerance to gastrointestinal conditions and high adhesion to intestinal cells.

Conclusions

Among the screened strains, Lb. paracasei L3C21M6 revealed the best cholesterol and histamine reducing abilities together with desirable probiotic and safety features to be used in food applications.

Significance and Impact of the Study

The strain L3C21M6 is a good candidate for use as a probiotic with histamine-degrading activity and cholesterol lowering effect. In addition, this strain could be use in dairy foods to prevent histamine food poisoning.
Research Review: Pediatric anxiety disorders – what have we learnt in the last 10 years?
Authors: Strawn Jeffrey R. , Lu Lu , Peris Tara S. , Levine Amir , Walkup John T.
Published: June 2020

Background

Anxiety disorders first emerge during the critical developmental periods of childhood and adolescence. This review synthesizes recent findings on the prevalence, risk factors, and course of the anxiety disorders; and their neurobiology and treatment.

Methods

For this review, searches were conducted using PubMed, PsycINFO, and clinicaltrials.gov. Findings related to the epidemiology, neurobiology, risk factors, and treatment of pediatric anxiety disorders were then summarized.

Findings

Anxiety disorders are high prevalence, and early‐onset conditions associated with multiple risk factors including early inhibited temperament, environment stress, and structural and functional abnormalities in the prefrontal‐amygdala circuitry as well as the default mode and salience networks. The anxiety disorders are effectively treated with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and serotonin–norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs).

Conclusions

Anxiety disorders are high prevalence, early‐onset conditions associated with a distinct neurobiological fingerprint, and are consistently responsive to treatment. Questions remain regarding who is at risk of developing anxiety disorders as well as the way in which neurobiology predicts treatment response.
Floral trait differentiation inAnacamptis coriophora: Phenotypic selection on scents, but not on colour
Authors: Joffard Nina , Le Roncé Iris , Langlois Alban , Renoult Julien , Buatois Bruno , Dormont Laurent , Schatz Bertrand
Published: June 2020

Current divergent selection may promote floral trait differentiation among conspecific populations in flowering plants. However, whether this applies to complex traits such as colour or scents has been little studied, even though these traits often vary within species. In this study, we compared floral colour and odour as well as selective pressures imposed upon these traits among seven populations belonging to three subspecies of the widespread, generalist orchidAnacamptis coriophora. Colour was characterized using calibrated photographs, and scents were sampled using dynamic headspace extraction and analysed using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. We then quantified phenotypic selection exerted on these traits by regressing fruit set values on floral trait values. We showed that the three studied subspecies were characterized by different floral colour and odour, with one of the two predominant floral volatiles emitted by each subspecies being taxon‐specific. Plant size was positively correlated with fruit set in most populations, whereas we found no apparent link between floral colour and female reproductive success. We detected positive selection on several taxon‐specific compounds inA. coriophorasubsp. fragrans, whereas no selection was found on floral volatiles ofA. coriophorasubsp. coriophoraandA. coriophorasubsp.martrinii. This study is one of the first to document variation in phenotypic selection exerted on floral scents among conspecific populations. Our results suggest that selection could contribute to ongoing chemical divergence amongA. coriophorasubspecies.
Favorable effects of microneedling on long‐standing androgenetic alopecia in an elderly man: A case report
Authors: Fujita Jun
Published: June 2020

Background

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is the most common type of alopecia. Currently, various methods have been tried to treat male AGA, but the outcomes are often unsatisfactory, especially for elderly persons.

Aims

We report a case of an elderly man with a severe long‐standing AGA, which was successfully managed with microneedling and minoxidil.

Patients/Methods

The patient was a 70‐year‐old Japanese man with family history of AGA, showed no abnormality in physical and laboratory examinations, and had received no treatment. We did monotherapy with 5% minoxidil twice daily to the right half of the scalp, while on the left half topical minoxidil was combined with weekly microneedling using an automated microneedling pen.

Results

After 14 weeks of treatment, negligible hair growth was observed on the monotherapy side. On the combined‐therapy side, however, hair growth was obvious and the density of hairs determined under trichoscope was significantly increased compared with the monotherapy side (P < .001). Only transient pain, erythema, and pinpoint bleeding were observed as adverse effects.

Conclusion

Although we need further clinical trials to assess the efficacy and safety and to standardize the method, microneedling combined with topical minoxidil could be a treatment option for severe AGA in elderly patients.
RESEARCH ON STRUCTURAL HOLES: AN ASSESSMENT ON MEASUREMENT ISSUES
Authors: Saglietto Laurence , Cézanne Cécile , David Delphine
Published: June 2020

Social capital theory generally analyses network structures by focusing on the connections between players. However, it has been suggested by several authors that the absence of relations in a network or ‘structural holes’ is meaningful. The aim of our paper is to provide a global survey and appraisal of the academic research on structural holes and discuss its main measurements. We adopt a bibliometric approach and identify a typology of practices, developments, and issues related to structural holes. We highlight a strand of work on operationalization of structural holes, and discuss the various measures they propose. We provide numerical examples emphasizing the respective advantages and limitations of the studied measures. Based on our results, we propose a guide to using existing measures of structural holes according to the type (simple or complex) of network.
Fertility‐sparing treatment for early‐stage epithelial ovarian cancer: Contemporary oncologic, reproductive and endocrinologic perspectives
Authors: Mandelbaum Rachel S. , Klar Maximilian , Takiuchi Tsuyoshi , Bainvoll Liat , Matsuzaki Shinya , Paulson Richard J. , Matsuo Koji
Published: June 2020

Aim

Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) can be a devastating diagnosis in women of reproductive age who desire future fertility. However, in early‐stage disease, fertility‐sparing surgery (FSS) can be considered in appropriately selected patients.

Methods

This is a narrative descriptive review of the recent literature on FSS for EOC from oncologic, reproductive and endocrinologic perspectives.

Results

The recurrence rate following FSS performed for stage I EOC in published retrospective studies collectively is 13% but ranges from 5 to 29%, while mortality ranges from 0 to 18%. Five‐year disease‐free survival following FSS is over 90% but decreases with higher stage and grade. Recurrences following FSS are more likely to be localized with a more favorable prognosis compared to recurrences following radical surgery. Adjuvant chemotherapy is recommended in women with high‐risk disease, and strategies to minimize gonadotoxicity during chemotherapy such as gonadotropin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists may be considered. Oocyte, embryo and/or ovarian cryopreservation can also be offered to patients desiring future biologic children. Reproductive outcomes following FSS, including pregnancy and miscarriage rates, resemble those of the general population, with a chance of successful pregnancy of nearly 80%.

Conclusion

In retrospective data, FSS appears to be oncologically safe in stage IA and IC grade 1–2 non‐clear cell EOC. In patients with grade 3 tumors or clear cell histology, treatment can be individualized, weighing a slightly higher risk of recurrence with fertility goals. A multidisciplinary approach with oncology and reproductive endocrinology may be of utility to help these patients achieve their fertility goals.
Psychophysical characterisation of burning mouth syndrome—A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Madariaga Víctor I. , Tanaka Hirokazu , Ernberg Malin
Published: June 2020

Background

Primary burning mouth syndrome (BMS) is an oro‐facial disease with neuropathic characteristics. Psychophysics, such as quantitative sensory testing (QST), is used to sub‐classify neuropathic pain syndromes, but their usefulness in characterising BMS is not yet clear.

Objective

The aim of this study was to summarise and to quantitatively and qualitatively analyse the available information about QST findings in BMS, and to reflect on possible mechanisms of disease.

Methods

In this systematic review and meta‐analysis, different search strategies were used to screen for articles in PubMed, Embase, EBSCOhost, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Google Scholar and two sources of conference abstracts. Primary clinical studies focused on QST assessment in patients with BMS were included. Data were synthesised qualitatively and quantitatively. Risk of bias was assessed following the AHRQ guidelines.

Results

Thirteen articles with low to moderate risk of bias and one conference abstract were selected from 45 unique articles that were identified. Individually, the studies reported combinations of thermal and mechanical sensory impairments measured by QST. The meta‐analysis showed significant sensory differences between patients and controls in warmth (effect size = 0.683; P < .05) and cold detection thresholds (effect size = −0.580; P < .001).

Conclusion

The results indicate that thermal sensitivity seems to be altered in patients with BMS compared to controls, suggesting a small‐fibre neuropathy. However, study protocols were highly variable and heterogeneous. Therefore, studies with better designs and complete reporting of results should be performed to bring value to the use of psychophysics in the assessment of BMS.
Prevalence, hospital admissions and costs of child chronic conditions: A population‐based study
Authors: Bell Jane , Lingam Raghu , Wakefield Claire E , Fardell Joanna E , Zeltzer Justin , Hu Nan , Woolfenden Sue , Callander Emily , Marshall Glenn M , Nassar Natasha
Published: June 2020

Aim

To determine population‐based prevalence, hospital use and costs for children admitted to hospital with chronic conditions.

Methods

We used hospital admissions data for children aged <16 years, 2002–2013 in New South Wales, Australia.

Results

Of all admissions, 35% (n = 692 514) included a diagnosis of a chronic condition. In 2013, prevalence was 25.1 per 1000 children. Children with greater socio‐economic disadvantage or living in regional and remote areas had lower prevalence, but a higher proportion of emergency admissions. Prevalence rates were highest for respiratory and neurological conditions (9.4, 7.4 per 1000, respectively). Mental health conditions were most common in older children. Admissions involving chronic conditions had longer length of stay (3.0 vs. 1.6 days), consumed more bed‐days (50% of total) and involved 43% of total hospital costs.

Conclusion

Differences in prevalence and use of hospital services suggest inequities in access and need for more appropriate and equitable models of care.
Mycoplasma pneumoniae‐associated mucositis complicated by herpes simplex virus dissemination and Staphylococcus Epidermidis bacteremia
Authors: Agnihotri Gaurav , Loucks Emily , Ashack Kurt , Tsoukas Maria
Published: June 2020

Prominent mucositis with minimal or no cutaneous involvement in the setting of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection describes a clinical entity recently termed Mycoplasma‐induced rash and mucositis (MIRM). About 81% of patients with MIRM experience complete resolution; however, the disease course in approximately 11% of patients is complicated by mucosal sequelae. We describe a patient with MIRM complicated by HSV dissemination and Staphylococcus epidermidis bacteremia and outline the management of mucocutaneous eruptions without systemic immunosuppressant agents.
Metabolic regulation of polyamines and γ‐aminobutyric acid in relation to spermidine‐induced heat tolerance in white clover
Authors: Luo L. , Li Z. , Tang M. Y. , Cheng B. Z. , Zeng W. H. , Peng Y. , Nie G. , Zhang X. Q.
Published: June 2020

Heat stress decreases crop growth and yield worldwide. Spermidine (Spd) is a small aliphatic amine and acts as a ubiquitous regulator for plant growth, development and stress tolerance.

Objectives of this study were to determine effects of exogenous Spd on changes in endogenous polyamine (PA) and γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) metabolism, oxidative damage, senescence and heat shock protein (HSP) expression in white clover subjected to heat stress. Physiological and molecular methods, including colorimetric assay, high performance liquid chromatography and qRT‐PCR, were applied.

Results showed that exogenous Spd significantly alleviated heat‐induced stress damage. Application of Spd not only increased endogenous putrescine, Spd, spermine and total PA accumulation, but also accelerated PA oxidation and improved glutamic acid decarboxylase activity, leading to GABA accumulation in leaves under heat stress. The Spd-pretreated white clover maintained a significantly higher chlorophyll (Chl) content than untreated plants under heat stress, which could be related to the roles of Spd in up‐regulating genes encoding Chl synthesis (PBGDandMg‐CHT) and maintaining reduced Chl degradation (PaOandCHLASE) during heat stress. In addition, Spd up‐regulatedHSP70,HSP70BandHSP70‐5expression, which might function in stabilizing denatured proteins and helping proteins to folding correctly in white clover under high temperature stress.

In summary, exogenous Spd treatment improves the heat tolerance of white clover by altering endogenous PA and GABA content and metabolism, enhancing the antioxidant system and HSP expression and slowing leaf senescence related to an increase in Chl biosynthesis and a decrease in Chl degradation during heat stress.
Usage and adherence of antidementia drugs in a memory clinic cohort in Chongqing, Southwest China
Authors: Yu Xingyan , Yu Weihua , Yang Wenkai , Lü Yang
Published: June 2020

Background

To investigate the use and adherence of antidementia drugs in elderly patients with dementia from the Memory Clinic of The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University.

Methods

Patients were recruited from the Memory Clinic of The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University from December 2010 to December 2018. Medical charts were reviewed, including diagnosis, dosage of antidementia medicines, neuropsychological testing scores, and the further questionnaires were conducted via face‐to‐face or telephone, included duration of treatment, types of antidementia drugs, and reasons for treatment discontinuation.

Results

The data from 422 patients were analysed retrospectively for this study. Three hundred and fifteen were diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease (AD), 67 with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and 40 with other types of dementia. From the 422 patients, 26.8% were treated with original donepezil (n = 113), 11.6% with generic donepezil (n = 49), 24.6% with memantine (n = 104), 13.3% with huperzine A (n = 56), and 23.7% with a combination of drugs (n = 100). However, 73% of patients discontinued treatment within 1 year of initiation. Patients treated for more than 36 months (37.8%) were more likely to choose combined medication, as compared with patients treated for less than 36 months. Patients with less than 9 years of education (odds ratio (OR): 2.394; 95% CI: 1.508–3.801) were more likely to discontinue treatment than patients with more than 9 years of education. Patients with elevated physical self‐maintenance scale (PSMS) scores (OR: 1.195; 95% CI: 1.086–1.316) had a high risk of discontinuation.

Conclusions

Overall treatment compliance is relatively poor in memory clinics in Chongqing. Our study demonstrates that higher education may lead to better treatment adherence in dementia care. Combination therapy may increase treatment time. However, poorer PSMS scores are a significant risk factor for treatment discontinuation.
The fit between regulatory instruments and targets: Regulating the economic integration of migrants
Authors: Hinterleitner Markus , Kaufmann David , Thomann Eva
Published: June 2020

This article adopts a novel regulatory perspective on the conditions that facilitate and obstruct economic equality between migrants and natives. Regulation scholars have long emphasized that regulatory interventions need to be geared toward the needs of regulatory targets. We contribute to this research by examining the fit between regulatory instruments and targets' human capital skills. We develop a theoretical framework that captures how economic integration regulations (EIRs) influence economic equality by supporting or restricting migrants in the labor market and as entrepreneurs. We argue that EIRs foster economic equality when they are responsive to the professional needs of specific types of regulatory targets (in terms of language and education skills). We apply the framework in the context of OECD countries. A fuzzy‐set qualitative comparative analysis reveals how the specific configurations of EIRs in 26 OECD countries coincide with either high or low economic equality between migrants and natives. Our approach contributes to the conceptual understanding of a pressing regulatory problem: the successful economic integration of migrants.