bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Histological and Immunohistochemical Changes of Congenital Melanocytic Nevi With Age
Authors: Gassenmaier Maximilian , Häfner Hans-Martin , Hahn Matthias , Kofler Lukas , Wagner Nikolaus B. , Forchhammer Stephan
Published: January 2021

Clinical but not histological changes of congenital melanocytic nevi (CMN) with age are well characterized. Our objective was to analyze histological changes of CMN with age and discuss possible clinical implications of our findings. We investigated serial excisions of 21 patients with CMN and compared histological and immunohistochemical features over time. The median number of serial excisions was 6 [interquartile range (IQR) 5–7], the median age at the first excision was 12 months (IQR 5–98), and the median time between the first and last analyzed excision was 53 months (IQR 45–64). The projected adult size of the excised CMN was “large” or “giant” in 14 of the 21 CMN (67%) and “medium” in the remaining lesions (33%). Nineteen CMN (90%) involved the subcutaneous fat, and 16 of the 21 CMN (76%) reached the lower surgical margin. The histological pattern and depth did not change over time but the cellularity and HMB-45 expression of dermal melanocytes decreased in 16 of the 21 patients (76%) and in 15 of the 21 patients (71%), respectively (both P < 0.001). Patients with decreasing HMB-45 expression were significantly younger at the first excision (median 6 months, IQR 4–28) than patients with unchanged HMB-45 expression (median 176 months, IQR 12–186; P = 0.018). The expression of Ki-67 and p16 did not change significantly with age. Our study demonstrates that (1) the cellularity and pigment production of CMN decreases with age, (2) the histological pattern and extension in depth remain stable, and (3) clear resection margins can rarely be achieved in larger CMN.
Developing a Breast Reconstruction Program in a Resource-Constrained Ghanaian Teaching Hospital
Authors: Tieman Joshua T. , Nourian Maziar Mohsen , Agbenorku Pius , Hoyte-Williams Paa Ekow , Farhat Boutros , Goodwin Isak A. , Swistun Lukasz , Foreman Kenneth Bo , Rockwell William Bradford
Published: January 2021

As the detection of breast cancer in Ghana improves, the incidence of mastectomy has increased and the outcomes have improved. As a secondary result, the need for breast reconstruction is increasing. The cultural hesitation to undergo a mastectomy and live without a breast can be decreased by making breast reconstruction available, cost-effective, and acceptable. Cultural, economic, and technical factors were considered in choosing the best method of breast reconstruction. Discussions, lectures, and cadaver dissections investigated the various reconstructive options. Operative cases were performed using a latissimus musculocutaneous flap, a lower abdominal transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous (TRAM) flap, and a midabdominal TRAM flap. The midabdominal TRAM was found to be the best choice at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital. It is a reliable, robust, well-perfused, single-stage flap that produced excellent patient satisfaction.
Bilateral Ethmoidal Mucocele Causing Proptosis in a Child
Authors: Sen Comert , Aydemir Levent , Comoglu Senol , Sonmez Said , Ozturk Ilker Erdinc , Deger Kemal
Published: January 2021

Objectives:

Paranasal sinus mucocele is a benign cystic lesion, lined with respiratory epithelium and filled with mucoid secretions, which is generally seen in the ethmoid or frontal sinuses. Inflammation, trauma, fibrosis, neoplasm, and previous surgery play a role in etiology. Treatment of this condition requires marsupialization and drainage. Endoscopic surgery is the gold standard procedure.

Methods:

A 2-year-old boy was referred to our clinic with a diagnosis of bilateral ethmoid mucocele causing proptosis in the right eye. General clinical examinations and routine blood analysis revealed normal health condition of the patient and comorbidities such as cystic fibrosis (CF) and/or ciliary dysfunction were excluded. The patient was operated with an endoscopic endonasal approach.

Results:

As far as we know, our article reports the first case of bilateral ethmoidal sinus mucocele with no underlying comorbidity, such as cystic fibrosis or ciliary dyskinesia.

Conclusions:

Children are rarely affected by mucocele and if present at early age, there is usually an underlying cause. In pediatric patients with signs and symptoms suggestive of a mucocele, it is important to rule out other benign and malignant paranasal sinus pathologies. Marsupialization and drainage via endoscopic endonasal approach is the preferred treatment modality.
Initial Manifestation of Orbital Lymphomas: The Role of Early Diagnosis
Authors: Torres Luiz Henrique Soares , Gabrielli Marisa Aparecida Cabrini , Pererira Filho Valfrido Antônio
Published: January 2021

Orbital lymphoma is a rare condition with non-specific and variable clinical course. This features are the main obstacle for diagnosis and treatment. A 43-year-old female patient complaining of vision loss and hemiface paresthesia, Proptosis was noted associated with an expansive lesion involving the right temporal lobe and orbital region. Craniotomy was performed to allow orbital decompression and anatomopathogical analysis. Final diagnosis was Burkitt Lymphoma. Patient evolved to death after seven days. A 40-year-old male patient complaining excessive tearing and sight disturbance. Proptosis on the right eye was noticed. Extra-conal expansive lesion was observed. Final diagnosis was mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma. Radio and chemotherapy protocol was initiated. In a 3 year follow-up, there are no signs of recurrence or ocular/orbital impairment. Maxillofacial surgeons should be aware of the initial clinical presentation and always include lymphoid neoplasms as a differential diagnosis in cases which acute functional alterations are present.
Photobiomodulation to Treat Necrotizing Fasciitis
Authors: de Mendonça Maria Patrícia Rogério , Andrade Ana Karisse de Carvalho , Gomes Vinícius Rodrigues , Carvalho Abrahão Cavalcante Gomes de Souza
Published: January 2021

The spread of odontogenic infections associated with comorbidities, such as diabetes mellitus, can result in a potentially lethal complication, with rapid necrosis of the superficial fascia, necrotizing fasciitis. In this case report, a female patient, 52 years old, fasting blood glucose of 303 mg/dL with necrotizing fasciitis associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus in the left cervical-thoracic region. She was treated with antibiotics, cervicotomy, abscess drainage, and underwent 10 photobiomodulation sessions with 2 weekly applications of the red wavelength laser to correct tissue loss in the left cervical region. With the development of tissue healing, the formation of granulation tissue increased, absence of necrotic areas, contraction of the edges, and total wound repair. This case emphasizes the effectiveness of photobiomodulation to optimize healing and modulate the inflammatory pattern in the treatment of necrotizing fasciitis sequelae.
Effectiveness of Different Surgical Flap Delay Methods and Their Systemic Toxicities
Authors: Yildiz Kemalettin , Mirapoglu Semih Lutfi , Kilic Ulkan , Guneren Ethem , Kocyigit Abdurrahim , Kirazoglu Ahmet , Sagir Haci Omer , Yesiloglu Nebil , Canter Halil Ibrahim , Cay Ali
Published: January 2021

Objective:

The surgical flap delaying has been shown to be effective in preventing partial flap loss or in preparing larger flaps. However, there is no gold standard flap delay method in the literature. In this study, the authors aimed to compare 3 types of surgical delay methods to determine which model would increase more flap survival. The authors also investigated the effect of delay methods on circulating mononuclear leukocytes as a parameter of DNA damage.

Methods:

Twenty-four Sprague-Dawley male rats were divided into 4 groups. All subjects had a 10 × 3 cm modified McFarlane flap. Surface area measurements, biopsies, and blood samples were taken on the day of sacrification; 7th day for the control group and 14th day for delay groups.

Results:

Between incisional surgery delay groups, a significant difference was found in necrosis and apoptosis in the bipedicled group, and only necrosis in the tripedicled group compared to the control. In terms of DNA damage, it was found higher in all experimental groups than in the control group.

Conclusions:

Both incisional surgical delay procedures’ results were meaningfully effective when only incisions were made without the elevation of flaps. In conclusion, bipedicled incisional surgical delay seems to be the most effective method in McFarlane experimental flap model whereas two-staged surgeries may increase the risk of systemic toxicity.
Impact of a Nurse Care Coordinator Supporting a Clinical Pharmacist Practitioner in Further Managing HCV-Infected Patients
Authors: Yang Anita , Zachary Debbie , Giang Jane
Published: January 2021

Patients undergoing chronic hepatitis C treatment require monitoring to ensure that treatment is both safe and effective. However, many of these patients are lost to follow-up. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of implementing a Nurse Care Coordinator's role in a pharmacy-based collaborative team to enhance the care of hepatitis C-infected patients. This was a 6-month retrospective chart review from July 2018 to January 2019, where 116 patients receiving hepatitis C treatment were referred to the Nurse Care Coordinator for further management. The Nurse Care Coordinator provided more than a 5-fold increase in contact method by telephone call. Of the 116 referred hepatitis C-infected patients, 44.8% (n = 52) of patients were referred due to a missed post-treatment Week 12 follow-up appointment to assess for cure. The Nurse Care Coordinator successfully rescheduled 96.2% (50/52) of follow-up appointments to assess for cure; 90% (45/50) of those patients adhered to scheduled appointment; and 97.8% (44/45) of patients had undetectable hepatitis C virus RNA, indicating cure. The primary success rate of the intended Nurse Care Coordinator arrangement was 97.4% (n = 113), where 89.4% (101/113) of patients successfully adhered to the intervention. This study demonstrates the positive impact the Nurse Care Coordinator had in successfully re-engaging previously lost to follow-up patients back into clinic.
Microbiological pattern of prosthetic hip and knee infections: a high-volume, single-centre experience in China
Authors: Yu Yali , Kong Yiyi , Ye Jing , Wang Aiguo , Si Wenteng
Published: January 2021

Introduction. Prosthetic joint infection (PJI) is a serious complication after arthroplasty, which results in high morbidity, prolonged treatment and considerable healthcare expenses in the absence of accurate diagnosis. In China, microbiological data on PJIs are still scarce.

Hypothesis/Gap Statement. The incidence of PJI is increasing year by year, and the proportion of drug-resistant bacteria infection is nicreasing, which brings severe challenges to the treatment of infection.

Aim. This study aimed to identify the pathogens in PJIs, multi-drug resistance, and evaluate the effect of the treatment regimen in patients with PJI.

Methodology. A total of 366 consecutive cases of PJI in the hip or knee joint were admitted at the Orthopedic Surgery Center in Zhengzhou, China from January 2012 to December 2018. Infections were confirmed in accordance with the Infectious Diseases Society of America and the Musculoskeletal Infection Society (MSIS) criteria. Concurrently, patient demographic data, incidence and antibiotic resistance were investigated. Statistical differences were analysed using Fisher’s exact test or chi-square test.

Results. Altogether, 318 PJI cases satisfying the inclusion criteria were enrolled in this study, including 148 with hip PJIs and 170 with knee PJIs. The average age of patients with hip PJIs was lesser than that of patients with knee PJIs (56.4 vs. 68.6 years). Meanwhile, coagulase-negative staphylococcus (CNS, n=81, 25.5 %) was the predominant causative pathogen, followed by

Staphylococcus aureus

(n=67, 21.1 %). Methicillin-resistant

Staphylococcus

(MRS) was identified in 28.9 % of PJI patients. In addition, fungus accounted for 4.8 % (n=15), non-tuberculosis mycobacterium accounted for 1.6 % (n=5), polymicrobial pathogens accounted for 21.7 % (n=69), and Gram-negative bacteria accounted for 7.9 % (n=25) of the total infections. The results of antibiotic susceptibility testing showed that gentamicin and clindamycin β-lactam antibiotics were poorly susceptible to Gram-positive isolates, but they were sensitive to rifampicin, linezolid and vancomycin. While antibiotics such as amikacin and imipenem were effective against Gram-negative bacteria, there was a high resistance rate of other pathogens to gentamicin, clindamycin and some quinolone antibacterial drugs. Empirical antibiotic treatment should combine vancomycin and cephalosporin, levofloxacin or clindamycin. When the pathogen is confirmed, the treatment should be individualized.

Conclusions. The prevalence of culture-negative PJIs is still very high. Gram-positive bacteria are still the main type of pathogens that cause PJIs. Attention should be paid to the high incidence of MRS, such as MRSA and MR-CNS, among PJI patients. Empirical antibiotic treatment should cover Gram-positive isolates, especially

Staphylococcus

.
Modelling the effect of lockdown
Authors: Kamei Hideto , Sato Akihiro
Published: January 2021

1

This note models the effect of the lockdown during the first wave of COVID-19. We use SEIR type of model with a certain time lag between infection and becoming infectious. Firstly we compare the timing of the change of the coefficient of infection, growth rate of confirmed cases corresponds to the change of mobility index, and secondly we assume the change of the coefficient of infection, activity index β (analogous to R0) and fit the parameter to reproduce the actual number of confirmed cases. Finally, we assume that the activity index β is proportional to the square of the mobility and fit the parameters. The curves in various cuontries fits reasonably well in any cases, but estimating β from various parameters (including temperature) remains as an important task.
Deep RNA Sequencing of Intensive Care Unit Patients with COVID-19
Authors: Monaghan Sean F. , Fredericks Alger M. , Jentzsch Maximilian S. , Cioffi William G. , Cohen Maya , Fairbrother William G. , Gandhi Shivam J. , Harrington Elizabeth O. , Nau Gerard J. , Reichner Jonathan S. , Ventetuolo Corey E. , Levy Mitchell M. , Ayala Alfred
Published: January 2021

Purpose

COVID-19 has impacted millions of patients across the world. Molecular testing occurring now identifies the presence of the virus at the sampling site: nasopharynx, nares, or oral cavity. RNA sequencing has the potential to establish both the presence of the virus and define the host’s response in COVID-19.

Methods

Single center, prospective study of patients with COVID-19 admitted to the intensive care unit where deep RNA sequencing (>100 million reads) of peripheral blood with computational biology analysis was done. All patients had positive SARS-CoV-2 PCR. Clinical data was prospectively collected.

Results

We enrolled fifteen patients at a single hospital. Patients were critically ill with a mortality of 47% and 67% were on a ventilator. All the patients had the SARS-CoV-2 RNA identified in the blood in addition to RNA from other viruses, bacteria, and archaea. The expression of many immune modulating genes, including PD-L1 and PD-L2, were significantly different in patients who died from COVID-19. Some proteins were influenced by alternative transcription and splicing events, as seen in HLA-C, HLA-E, NRP1 and NRP2. Entropy calculated from alternative RNA splicing and transcription start/end predicted mortality in these patients.

Conclusions

Current upper respiratory tract testing for COVID-19 only determines if the virus is present. Deep RNA sequencing with appropriate computational biology may provide important prognostic information and point to therapeutic foci to be precisely targeted in future studies.

Take Home Message

Deep RNA sequencing provides a novel diagnostic tool for critically ill patients. Among ICU patients with COVID-19, RNA sequencings can identify gene expression, pathogens (including SARS-CoV-2), and can predict mortality.

Tweet

Deep RNA sequencing is a novel technology that can assist in the care of critically ill COVID-19 patients & can be applied to other disease
Elevated 11-oxygenated androgens are not a major contributor to HPG-axis disturbances in adults with congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency
Authors: Auer Matthias K. , Paizoni Luisa , Neuner Meike , Lottspeich Christian , Schmidt Heinrich , Bidlingmaier Martin , Hawley James , Keevil Brian , Reisch Nicole
Published: January 2021

Context

Hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal (HPG)-axis disturbances are a common phenomenon in patients with classic congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). 11-oxygenated androgens have been suggested to play a role in this context.

Design

Cross-sectional single center study including 89 patients (N=42 men, N=55 women) with classic CAH.

Main Outcome Measures

Independent predictors for hypogonadism in men and secondary amenorrhea in women with CAH with a special focus on 11-ketotestosterone (11KT) and 11β-hydroxyandrostenedione (11OHA4).

Results

Hypogonadotropic hypogonadism was present in 23% of men and 61% of those women currently not on contraceptives suffered from irregular menstrual cycles or amenorrhea. Testicular adrenal rest tumor (TART) was documented in 28% of men. While 11KT (3.5x) and 11OHA4 (5.7x) among other adrenal steroids were significantly elevated in men with hypogonadism, in stepwise logistic regression, the only significant independent predictor for hypogonadism were elevated 17-OHP levels (B = 0.006; p = 0.039). Although 11KT (5.2x) and 11OHA4 (3.7x) levels were also significantly higher in women with amenorrhea in comparison to those with a regular cycle, the only significant predictor for amenorrhea were elevated total testosterone levels (B = 1.806; p = 0.040). 11-oxygenated androgens were not different in those with TART and those without. Of note, there were no significant differences in 11OHA4 or 11KT between those with a regular cycle and those currently on hormonal contraceptives.

Conclusions

11-oxygenated androgens do not seem to add additional information for explaining menstrual disturbances and hypogonadism in patients with CAH in comparison to established marker of disease control.

Highlights

The 11-oxygenated androgens 11-ketotestosterone and 11β-hydroxyandrostenedione are significantly elevated in men with CAH with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and women with amenorrhea.

Elevated 17-OHP levels in male patients and elevated testosterone levels in female patients are however the dominant predictor of HPG-axis disturbances.

11-oxygenated androgens are not predictive for testicular adrenal rest tumors in men with CAH

11-ketotestosterone and 11β-hydroxyandrostenedione levels do not seem to be influenced by intake of oral contraceptives.
Muscle-specific Cavin4 interacts with Bin1 to promote T-tubule formation and stability in developing skeletal muscle
Authors: Lo Harriet P. , Lim Ye-Wheen , Xiong Zherui , Martel Nick , Ferguson Charles , Ariotti Nicholas R. , Giacomotto Jean , Rae James A. , Floetenmeyer Matthias , Moradi Shayli Varasteh , Gao Ya , Tillu Vikas A. , Xia Di , Wang Huang , Rahnama Samira , Nixon Susan J. , Bastiani Michele , Day Ryan D. , Smith Kelly A. , Palpant Nathan J. , Johnston Wayne A. , Alexandrov Kirill , Collins Brett M. , Hall Thomas E. , Parton Robert G.
Published: January 2021

The cavin proteins are essential for caveola biogenesis and function. Here, we identify a role for the muscle-specific component, Cavin4, in skeletal muscle T-tubule development by analyzing two vertebrate systems: mouse and zebrafish. In both models Cavin4 localized to T-tubules and loss of Cavin4 resulted in aberrant T-tubule maturation. In zebrafish, which possess duplicatedcavin4paralogs, Cavin4b was shown to directly interact with the T-tubule-associated BAR domain protein, Bin1. Loss of both Cavin4a and Cavin4b caused aberrant accumulation of interconnected caveolae within the T-tubules, a fragmented T-tubule network enriched in Caveolin-3, and an impaired Ca2+response upon mechanical stimulation. We propose a role for Cavin4 in remodeling the T-tubule membrane early in development by recycling caveolar components from the T-tubule to the sarcolemma. This generates a stable T-tubule domain lacking caveolae that is essential for T-tubule function.
Customer co-creation, COVID-19 and sustainable service outcomes
Authors: Sharma Priyanka
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Many changes that call for concerted social action were observed in society and business performance during the coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak. The impact of digitization and customer participation was evident in providing medical guidelines, updates on government initiatives, education or the supply of essential services during lockdown in many countries. However, there were aberrations. The purpose of this study is to explore some consumers and firms' being better equipped for service co-creation than others, specifically during a pandemic; the different degrees of service co-creation and the possible outcomes of customer participation in the service context.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative study with 35 in-depth interviews of supply- and demand-side actors, with coding and analysis of interview transcripts was conducted.

Findings

The authors identify two levels of service co-creation: (1) service co-development and (2) service co-evaluation that are affected by customer capabilities and firm/institutional barriers. The outcome of service co-creation lies in the social, economic and experiential values thus created. A pandemic strengthens the effect of antecedents (customer capabilities and firm capabilities) on the co-creation process.

Practical implications

Managers can refer to the findings to manage customer engagements and co-creations effectively, especially during a pandemic.

Originality/value

The impact of the pandemic on the service co-creation process in an emerging market, and the antecedents (firm- and customer-side) and consequences (mutual value outcomes) of service co-creation and actor participation are explored.
Exploring “gothic tourism”: a new form of urban tourism?
Authors: Light Duncan , Richards Steven , Ivanova Preslava
Published: January 2021

Purpose

The concept of “Gothic tourism” has recently been proposed within the discipline of English Literature. Such tourism is claimed to be a distinct form of special interest tourism grounded in familiarity with the Gothic, distinctive aesthetics, and experiences of frights and scares. It is increasingly common in towns and cities around the world. This paper aims to examine and critique the concept of Gothic tourism, and consider its similarities with existing forms of urban tourism.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a conceptual paper and no empirical data are presented.

Findings

Gothic tourism is not as clearly differentiated from other forms of tourism as has been claimed. In particular, Gothic tourism can be conceptualised as a particular form of “lighter” dark tourism, but it can also be considered as a form of literary tourism. A conceptual model is presented which places Gothic tourism at the nexus of dark and literary tourism.

Research limitations/implications

This study is a conceptual exploration of Gothic tourism. Further empirical research is required to test the ideas presented in this paper at established Gothic tourism attractions.

Originality/value

This study examines the recently proposed (but little-researched) concept of Gothic tourism and considers its relationships with other forms of special interest tourism. It also illustrates the broader issue of how typologies of special interest tourism do not necessarily correspond with the motives and experiences of tourists themselves, or of the providers of tourist experiences.
Developing and validating the components of Maqasid al-Shari’ah-based performance measurement model for Islamic banks
Authors: Tarique Kazi Md , Islam Rafikul , Mohammed Mustafa Omar
Published: January 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop and subsequently validate a Maqasid al-Shari’ah-based performance evaluation model for Islamic banks.

Design/methodology/approach

Initially, a comprehensive review of the existing and relevant literature is carried out and a prototype evaluation model has been developed. This has been augmented and refined through in-depth interviews of Shari’ah scholars and banking experts. Afterwards, the modified model has been validated by taking inputs from academics and Islamic banking practitioners through a focus group discussion.

Findings

The major outcome of the present work is a Maqasid al-Shari’ah-based performance evaluation model for Islamic banks. At the inception of the work, the Maqasid frameworks of Imam al-Ghazali and Abu Zahrah were combined. The combined model incorporates various dimensions, elements and the corresponding measures of three components, namely, justice, education and maslahah.

Research limitations/implications

Not being able to test the model statistically or empirically can be considered as a limitation.

Practical implications

The comprehensive theoretical framework of the developed model addresses all aspects of human well-being. Thus, if implemented the model will ensure welfare for all the stakeholders. It will also encourage the regulators to introduce new reporting standards which will be more reflective of Maqasid al-Shari’ah.

Social implications

Fulfilling Maqasid will create a positive brand image for Islamic banks, which will attract more customers both Muslims and non-Muslims. Thus, this will create a wider scope for earning more revenues.

Originality/value

There has been concern that Islamic banks are converging towards conventional banking systems and the same performance measure instrument is being used to evaluate the performance of both Islamic and conventional banks. The present work has developed a Maqasid al-Shari’ah-based performance evaluation model for Islamic banks.
Integrating fuzzy case-based reasoning, parametric and feature-based cost estimation methods for machining process
Authors: Kasie Fentahun Moges , Bright Glen
Published: January 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to propose an intelligent system that serves as a cost estimator when new part orders are received from customers.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodologies applied in this study were case-based reasoning (CBR), analytic hierarchy process, rule-based reasoning and fuzzy set theory for case retrieval. The retrieved cases were revised using parametric and feature-based cost estimation techniques. Cases were represented using an object-oriented (OO) approach to characterize them in n-dimensional Euclidean vector space.

Findings

The proposed cost estimator retrieves historical cases that have the most similar cost estimates to the current new orders. Further, it revises the retrieved cost estimates based on attribute differences between new and retrieved cases using parametric and feature-based cost estimation techniques.

Research limitations/implications

The proposed system was illustrated using a numerical example by considering different lathe machine operations in a computer-based laboratory environment; however, its applicability was not validated in industrial situations.

Originality/value

Different intelligent methods were proposed in the past; however, the combination of fuzzy CBR, parametric and feature-oriented methods was not addressed in product cost estimation problems.
Asymmetric responses of resource use efficiency to previous‐year precipitation in a semi‐arid grassland
Authors: Han Juanjuan , Chen Jiquan , Shi Weiyu , Song Jian , Hui Dafeng , Ru Jingyi , Wan Shiqiang
Published: January 2021

Intensified inter‐annual fluctuations in precipitation could profoundly impact terrestrial ecosystems. However, how changes in previous‐year precipitation influence current ecosystem functioning (e.g. resource use efficiency) in semi‐arid regions remains unclear.

In this study, water use efficiency (WUE) and light use efficiency (LUE) were investigated in a multi‐year precipitation gradient experiment with seven treatment levels: 20%, 40% and 60% decreases and 20%, 40% and 60% increases in the amount of natural rainfall plus ambient precipitation. Plots receiving 60% less precipitation were representative of extreme dry years, whereas the other treatment levels fell within the normal year‐to‐year range in precipitation change. Measurements made in both the post‐treatment period (2013–2015) and the treatment period (2010–2012) provided an opportunity to quantify the legacy effects of precipitation on resource use efficiency (RUE).

Sensitivities of LUE to previous‐year precipitation were not changed among treatments in 2013. However, asymmetric responses of RUEs (i.e. WUE and LUE) to previous‐year precipitation were found in 2014–2015. WUE2014, WUE2015, LUE2014 and LUE2015 responded more strongly to previous normal decreased than increased precipitation. Importantly, they were more sensitive to previous extreme dry year (represented by 60% precipitation reduction) than normal wet year (represented by 60% precipitation increment). Above‐ground net primary productivity (ANPP) rather than resource absorption (Ruptake) drove these asymmetric responses of RUE, and biomass of grasses further explained the asymmetric responses of ANPP.

This study reveals the nonlinear responses of RUE to previous‐year precipitation and highlights that the legacy effects of precipitation on RUE can be ascribed to the changes in vegetation composition. Our findings can facilitate the prediction of the legacy effects of precipitation variation on grassland ecosystem functions in the future.

A free Plain Language Summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article.
Biological Flora of the British Isles: Crataegus laevigata
Authors: Thomas Peter A. , Leski Tomasz , La Porta Nicola , Dering Monika , Iszkuło Grzegorz
Published: January 2021

This account presents information on all aspects of the biology of Crataegus laevigata (Poir.) DC (Midland hawthorn) (C. oxyacanthoides Thuill.) that are relevant to understanding its ecological characteristics and behaviour. The main topics are presented within the standard framework of the Biological Flora of the British Isles: distribution, habitat, communities, responses to biotic factors, responses to environment, structure and physiology, phenology, floral and seed characters, herbivores and disease, history and conservation.

Crataegus laevigata is primarily a shade‐tolerant shrub or small tree up to 12‐m tall of ancient woodlands (of which it is an indicator plant) and occasionally old hedges, usually on heavy clay soils and avoiding limestone and chalk. It is native to central and northern Europe and in the British Isles is native to southeast England, occurring naturally up to the Midlands, hence the common name. It is largely absent naturally from Scotland, Wales and Ireland.

Flowers usually have two styles, varying from (rarely) 1 to 5 with an equal number of pyrenes in the fruit, differentiating it from C. monogyna with usually one style and pyrene. Pollination is by insects and fruit are dispersed primarily by birds. Fruit has traditionally been used for food, and with the leaves and flowers have a long tradition in herbal medicine.

Disturbance and fragmentation have allowed C. monogyna to permeate into old woodlands and hybridise with C. laevigata. These two species are inter‐fertile and barriers to hybridisation are primarily spatial separation thus allowing extensive introgression such that in many parts of Europe, pure C. laevigata is becoming scarce.
Development, reliability, and validity of the Sensory Adventure Measure
Authors: Liberman Lihi , Sevillia Meital , Shaviv Yarden , Bart Orit
Published: January 2021

Introduction

Sensory modulation refers to a condition in which an individual's behavioural responses to sensory stimuli do not correspond to the nature or intensity of the stimuli. Sensory modulation affects children's participation in everyday activities and their well‐being. The most common assessments used are caregiver questionnaires. Our aim is twofold; first to develop a clinical evaluative measure, the Sensory Adventure Measure (SAM), for directly assessing sensory modulation in children via therapists and children's self‐report, second, we aim to establish its reliability and validity.

Methods

The study sample comprised 87 children ranging in age from 4 to 6 years and 11 months old divided into two groups: study group included 63 children with mild developmental disabilities and the control group included 24 typically developed children. The SAM's internal consistency, test–retest reliability, and inter‐rater reliability were examined. In addition, criterion validity was established using the total score of the Short Sensory Profile (SSP) and construct validity was established by known group differences.

Results

The SAM exhibited good internal consistency (α = 0.83, 0.85) and moderate to very good test–retest reliability (r = 0.96, 0.98, 0.75). Inter‐rater reliability was strong (r = 0.80–0.83). Moderate correlation was found between the SAM Therapist Rating of Magnitude total score and the total score of the SSP and significant differences were found in the SAM scores between groups thus establishing validity.

Conclusions

The SAM demonstrated good psychometric properties and can be used as a reliable and valid measure to assess sensory modulation among children aged 4 to 6 years. The SAM can be used by therapists to assess sensory modulation disorder based on observed responses to sensory stimuli and the child's self‐report. The SAM contributes additional perspective to the evaluation process of sensory modulation disorder.
Patterns and predictors of reading comprehension growth in first and second language readers
Authors: Raudszus Henriette , Segers Eliane , Verhoeven Ludo
Published: January 2021

Background

The present study examined patterns and predictors of reading comprehension growth in first language (L1) and second language (L2) readers in the upper grades of primary school. Previous research suggests that L1 and L2 readers differ in their growth trajectories and that differences in language proficiency play a role in this. However, how predictors at different levels of processing influence growth has not been investigated. In particular, the role of unification skills such as syntactic integration and the ability to form a situation model of a text is under‐investigated.

Method

In a longitudinal study, 63 L1 Dutch and 109 L2 Dutch readers were followed from fourth to sixth grade (mean ages 10 to 13 years). L2 children had a variety of language backgrounds. In Grades 4–6, reading comprehension was assessed. In Grade 4, participants were also assessed on cognitive ability (nonverbal reasoning and working memory), decoding, vocabulary, and unification skills (syntax and situation model building ability). Patterns and predictors of growth were investigated by means of mixed‐effects modelling.

Results

Reading comprehension growth was predicted by vocabulary and decoding, such that participants with lower decoding or vocabulary scores made more reading comprehension gains. L1 and L2 readers with high vocabulary scores did not differ in their reading comprehension growth. L2 readers with low vocabulary made less reading comprehension gains than L1 readers with low vocabulary. Unification skills predicted initial reading comprehension but not growth.

Conclusions

Findings suggest that linguistic skills above the word level predict initial reading comprehension but not growth. Children with lower initial literacy skills caught up on reading comprehension, but this was less true for L2 children. L2 children with high vocabulary, however, did not differ from their L1 peers.
Months of May: Mental health presentations and the impact of a psychiatric emergency care centre on an inner‐city emergency department
Authors: Huber Jacqueline P , Wilhelm Kay , Landstra Jodie MB
Published: January 2021

Objectives

The impact of psychiatric emergency care centres (PECCs) on ED mental health (MH) presentations has not been presented. We aim to compare demographics, diagnosis and admission frequency of patients presenting to an inner‐city ED with MH complaints, before and for several years after the opening of a PECC.

Methods

We collected ED patient data for the first 200 ‘mental health’ presentations during the month of May in 2005–2007, and 2015–2017. Data included demographics, diagnosis, post‐ED disposition, length of stay in ED, use of the Mental Health Act, and the presence of expressed suicidality and psychotic disorders.

Results

The days to reach 200 MH presentations decreased from 43 days in 2005 to 17 days in 2017. The mean length of ED stay approximately halved with PECC's introduction, with 20% of patients being admitted to PECC. Prior to PECC, 75% of suicidal patients were discharged from ED; after the opening of PECC, 84% of patients expressing suicidality were admitted to PECC; and 73% of patients admitted with psychotic symptoms went to the acute psychiatric ward.

Conclusions

Between 2005 and 2017, MH presentations to ED became significantly more frequent. The opening of PECC reduced length of stay in ED and provided an admission trajectory for patients expressing suicidality, while retaining the pathway to the acute psychiatric ward for those patients presenting with psychosis.
Codex in Motion: Food Safety Standard Setting and Impacts on Developing Countries’ Agricultural Exports
Authors: Wieck Christine , Grant Jason H.
Published: January 2021

The Codex Alimentarius, or ‘food code’, was established to set international standards to ensure the safety and quality of food and agricultural products while at the same time creating a level playing field for international trade. However, less is known about the duration of the standards setting process in the Codex committees, and the extent to which trade is impacted when standards are delayed versus cases in which the adoption of standards was accelerated. This article reviews and evaluates three case studies in which Codex standards were rapidly adopted: Sulphur Dioxide (SO2) levels in cinnamon; melamine standards for milk and powder; and Codex guidance procedures in the case of melons. Two recent cases in which Codex standards have been held up are also considered: maximum levels of aflatoxins in ready‐to‐eat peanuts; and cadmium in chocolate. We find evidence that accelerated adoption of Codex standards is an important catalyst facilitating exports by some developing countries. Delays and non‐adoption of Codex standards, on the other hand, can lead to significant export underperformance in certain countries and regions. Thus, Codex members would do well to reflect on the positive trade flow benefits that can be realised among developing countries who depend on international standards for export earnings.
Pilfering of western juniper seed caches by scatter‐hoarding rodents varies by microsite and canopy type
Authors: DIMITRI Lindsay A. , LONGLAND William S.
Published: January 2021

Scatter‐hoarding rodents store seeds throughout their home ranges in superficially buried caches which, unlike seeds larder‐hoarded in burrows, are difficult to defend. Cached seeds are often pilfered by other scatter‐hoarders and either re‐cached, eaten or larder‐hoarded. Such seed movements can influence seedling recruitment, because only seeds remaining in caches are likely to germinate. Although the importance of scatter‐hoarding rodents in the dispersal of western juniper seeds has recently been revealed, the level of pilfering that occurs after initial burial is unknown. Seed traits, soil moisture, and substrate can influence pilfering processes, but less is known about how pilfering varies among caches placed in open versus canopy microsites, or how cache discovery and removal varies among different canopy‐types, tree versus shrub. We compared the removal of artificial caches between open and canopy microsites and between tree and shrub canopies at two sites in northeastern California during late spring and fall. We also used trail cameras at one site to monitor artificial cache removal, identify potential pilferers, and illuminate microsite use by scatter‐hoarders. Removal of artificial caches was faster in open microsites at both sites during both seasons, and more caches were removed from shrub than tree canopies. California kangaroo rats were the species observed most on cameras, foraging most often in open microsites, which could explain the observed pilfering patterns. This is the first study to document pilfering of western juniper seeds, providing further evidence of the importance of scatter‐hoarding rodent foraging behavior in understanding seedling recruitment processes in juniper woodlands.
Influence of non‐phosphate and low‐sodium salt marination in combination with tumbling process on properties of chicken breast meat affected by white striping abnormality
Authors: U‐Chupaj Juthawut , Malila Yuwares , Gozzi Giorgia , Vannini Lucia , Dellarosa Nicolò , Laghi Luca , Petracci Massimiliano , Benjakul Soottawat , Visessanguan Wonnop
Published: January 2021

This study investigated the effects of non‐phosphate and low‐sodium (NPLS) marination on properties of white striping chicken breasts (WSCB). Chicken breasts were collected from slaughterhouse and classified as normal (NCB, n = 24) and severe WS (WSCB, n = 120). Sixty WSCB samples were vacuum‐tumbled (30 min, 2 °C) with NPLS solution, containing 2.8% (w/v) potassium bicarbonate, 2.9% (w/v) potassium chloride, and 1.5% (w/v) sorbitol at the ratio of meat‐to‐marinade of 4 to 1 (w/w). The other 60 WSCB received no marination were assigned as nonmarinated WSCB. Properties of marinated (n = 12) and nonmarinated (n = 12) WSCB samples were determined at 0, 3, 7, 10, and 14 days of the storage at 4 °C. Properties of the NCB were also determined on day 0. Concerning day 0, the marinated WSCB exhibited higher (p < 0.05) pH, moisture content, total cooked yield, protein solubility, hardness, cohesiveness, and chewiness along with lower (p < 0.05) cooked loss, expressible water, and shear force than those of nonmarinated WSCB and NCB. Based on nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, bound, intra‐myofibrillar, and extra‐myofibrillar water of cooked marinated WSCB were greater (p < 0.05) than those of cooked nonmarinated WSCB. The greater (p < 0.05) weight loss, moisture content, and total cooking yield were observed in marinated samples compared to those of nonmarinated WSCB throughout the storage period. Although microbial stability was reduced (p < 0.05), no difference (p ≥ 0.05) in lipid oxidation was detected between the treatments. The findings suggest the NPLS marination as a promising process for improving water holding capacity of the WSCB.

Practical Application

This study presents the promising application of non‐phosphate, low‐sodium (NPLS) marination combined with vacuum‐tumbling in improving water holding capacity of chicken breast meat affected with white striping condition. Although microbial stability of the marinated breast was negatively affected, no adverse impacts on lipid oxidation was observed during storage up to 14 days.
Effect of high‐intensity ultrasound on the oleogelation and physical properties of high melting point monoglycerides and triglycerides oleogels
Authors: da Silva Thais Lomonaco Teodoro , Danthine Sabine
Published: January 2021

Oleogels and oleogelation routes have been extensively studied in the past decade; however, the industry has not yet implemented this technique due to price, availability, and clean label. The objective of this study was to evaluate the synergism of binary oleogels structured by monoglycerides (MG) and high melting point triacylglycerols (HF) with and without high‐intensity ultrasound (HIU) according to their physical properties. MG:HF (0:6, 1:5, 2:4, 3:3, 4:2, 5:1, and 6:0) oleogels were produced by mixing at 70 °C with a stirring of 350 rpm for 5 min, followed by a cooling and storage at 20 °C for 24 hr. A 20‐kHz HIU was applied for 10s, 30s, or 10s using three pulses (10sON/10sOFF) during the cooling step via a macro tip (12.7 mm) and 50% amplitude (56 W) in the presence of few ‐crystals. Samples were evaluated according to their hardness, oil‐binding capacity (OBC), microstructure, melting behavior, viscoelasticity, and flow behavior. The best physical properties were found in the MG6:HF0 oleogel, with a hardness of 1.2 N, elasticity of 5.5 kPa, viscosity of 99 Pa⋅s and 99% OBC. These properties were reduced with the decrease of MG in the blend. The sonication did not improve the MG6:HF0, instead it affected its properties negatively. However, sonication showed a positive effect on the blends of MG and HF. The hardness was improved at least threefold and OBC around 20%, these effects were already observed using only 10s sonication. Sonocrystallization induced secondary nucleation and changed the crystalline material only in blends containing HF indicating the better effect of the sonocrystallization on oleogels in the presence of high‐melting points triacylglycerols.

Practical Application

Oleogels are a valuable alternative in food industry to replace trans and reduce saturated fatty acids content in many food products. The combination of a binary structuration and use of high‐intensity ultrasound that is a physical green technology will give the food industry information on how to improve the physical properties of oleogels without increasing the amount of oleogelators, giving a future alternative to clean label and sensory claims of oleogels applications.
Association between thiamine deficiency and hyperlactatemia among critically ill patients with diabetes infected by SARS‐CoV‐2
Authors: Gonçalves Sandra Elisa Adami Batista , Gonçalves Thiago José Martins , Guarnieri Andreia , Risegato Rodrigo Cristovão , Guimarães Maysa Penteado , de Freitas Daniella Cabral
Published: January 2021

Background

The present study aims to verify the association between diabetes and thiamine deficiency in critically ill patients infected by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2.

Methods

This is a descriptive cross‐sectional study, whose demographic, anthropometric, and laboratory data (arterial lactate, bicarbonate, and plasma thiamine) were obtained in the first hours of admission to the intensive care unit. Patients with diabetes were compared with individuals without diabetes, and the correlation was performed between thiamine and lactate levels. Thiamine levels <28 μg/L were considered as thiamine deficiency.

Results

Overall, 270 patients met the inclusion criteria; 51.1% were men, and the median age was 74 years (66.8‐81). The median value of thiamine was 54.0 μg/L (38‐72.3), and 15.6% had thiamine deficiency. Among patients with diabetes, 26.3% had thiamine deficiency, and 69.3% had hyperlactatemia. There was an association between thiamine deficiency and diabetes (odds ratio 4.28; 95% CI, 2.08‐8.81; P < .001). There was a strong negative correlation between thiamine and arterial lactate in patients with diabetes (r = −0.711, P < .001) and a moderate negative correlation in critically ill patients without diabetes (r = −0.489, P < .001).

Conclusions

The prevalence of thiamine deficiency in critically ill patients due to coronavirus disease 2019 is higher in patients with diabetes. There is a negative correlation between thiamine and arterial lactate levels, which is higher in people with diabetes.