bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ureides are similarly accumulated in response to UV-C irradiation and wound but differently remobilized during recovery in Arabidopsis leaves
Authors: Soltabayeva Aigerim , Bekturova Aizat , Kurmanbayeva Assylay , Oshanova Dinara , Nurbekova Zhadyrassyn , Srivastava Sudhakar , Standing Dominic , Sagi Moshe
Published: June 2021

To examine a role of purine degraded metabolites in response to wounding or UV-C stress, the Arabidopsis wild-type and Atxdh1 KO mutants, defective in xanthine dehydrogenase1 (XDH1), were exposed to wounding and UV-C irradiation stress. In Atxdh1 mutant, wounding or UV-C stresses resulted in lower fresh-weight, increased senescence symptoms and higher tissue cell death rate compared to Wild-type. Additionally, Wild-type exhibited lower levels of oxidative stress indicators; reactive oxygen species and malondialdehyde than Atxdh1 mutant leaves. Notably, purine degradation transcripts and proteins were orchestrated to lead to enhanced ureide levels in Wild-type leaves 24 h after applying UV-C or wound stress. Yet, different remobilization of the accumulated ureides was noticed 72 h after stresses application. In plants treated with UV-C the allantoin level was highest in young leaves, whereas in wounded plants it was lowest in the young leaves, accumulated mainly in the middle and wounded leaves. The results indicate that in UV-C treated Wild-type, during the recovery period from stress, ureides are remobilized from the lower older leaves to support young leaf growth. In contrast, after wounding, the ureides are remobilized to the young leaves, yet more to the middle wounded leaves, to function as antioxidants and/or healing agents.

Highlight

UV-C and wound triggers purine degradation in old and damaged leaves to increase ureides accumulation in stress dependent rate. Impairment in purine degradation results in premature senescence in leaves.
Stress in mothers of children with neurodevelopmental disorders
Authors: Hemati Alamdarloo Ghorban , Majidi Farzad
Published: June 2021

Purpose

Most parents experience stress when their children are diagnosed with some kind of disability. This paper aims to compare the level of stress among mothers of children with neurodevelopmental disorders.

Design/methodology/approach

Research sample consisted of 150 mothers of children with neurodevelopmental disorders (50 mothers of children with autism spectrum disorder, 50 mothers of children with intellectual disability and 50 mothers of children with specific learning disorder selected by convenience sampling). The Stress Response Inventory was used for measuring stress. One-way analysis of variance, multivariate analysis of variance and Scheffe post hoc tests were used for data analysis.

Findings

The results showed that the stress of mothers of children with autism spectrum disorder was significantly higher than to the other groups of mothers. It was also observed that the stress of mothers of children with intellectual disability was significantly higher than the mothers of children with the specific learning disorder.

Originality/value

Therefore, designing and implementing preventive and interventional programs to decrease the stress of mothers of children with neurodevelopmental disorders, especially mothers of children with autism spectrum disorder is necessary.
Customer segment transition through the customer loyalty program
Authors: Kimura Makoto
Published: June 2021

Purpose

This study presents the applicability of a model-based approach for loyalty program forecasting using smartphone app in the digital strategy of the retail industry.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors develop a dynamic model with the cyclical structure of customer segments through customer experience. They use time-series data on the number of members of the loyalty program, “Seven Mile Program” and confirm the validity of the approximate calculation of customer segment share, customer segment sales share and aggregate sales performance. The authors present three medium-term forecast scenarios after the launch of a smartphone payment service linked with the loyalty program.

Findings

The sum of the two customer segment shares for forecasting (the sum of the quasi-excellent and excellent customer ratios) is about 30% in each scenario, consistent with an essential customer loyalty (true loyalty) share obtained in the existing empirical study.

Research limitations/implications

Digital strategy in the retail industry should focus more on estimating and forecasting average amounts of customer segments and the number of aggregated customers through the digitalization on the customer side than on individual customer journeys and responses.

Practical implications

Multi-scenario evaluation through simulation of dynamic models from a systemic view can be used for decision-making in retailing digital strategies.

Originality/value

This study builds a model that integrates the cyclicality of customer segment transition through customer experiences into a loyalty matrix framework, which is a method that has previously been used in the hospitality industry.
As the tree is, so is the fruit? Examining the effects of ethical leadership on bootlegging from the perspective of leader–follower gender similarity
Authors: Li Shuwen , Jia Ruiqian , Seufert Juergen H. , Tang Huijie , Luo Jinlian
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore how and when ethical leadership enhances bootlegging. To achieve this purpose, the authors proposed a moderated dual-path model in this study.

Design/methodology/approach

The model was tested on two related studies. Study 1 was based on three-wave, collected data from a sample of 511 employees of Chinese companies. Data used in Study 2 was collected by survey from employees and their direct leaders of multiple departments of companies in China.

Findings

In Study 1, the authors found that moral efficacy and moral identity mediate between ethical leadership and bootlegging. Findings from Study 2 provide convergent support of moral efficacy’s and moral identity’s impact on the mediation relationship between ethical leadership and bootlegging. Moreover, the results of Study 2 further reveal that the relationship between ethical leadership and moral efficacy (or moral identity) was more significant among leader–follower with different genders.

Originality/value

This study not only enriches the literature on ethical leadership and gender (dis)similarity, but also helps managers to better understand the function of bootlegging.
Restrictor-based studies of hybrid hole-entry conical journal bearings
Authors: Khakse Prashant G. , Phalle Vikas M.
Published: June 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to describe how successfully a particular restrictor delivers its best in increasing the conical journal bearing performance. The restrictors are used in the hole-entry conical journal bearing subjected to hybrid mode. Thus, the restrictors, like constant flow valve (CFV), orifice and capillary, are studied comparatively.

Design/methodology/approach

Numerical simulation for the bearing results with the three restrictors are obtained by using finite element method (FEM) under the well-known modified Reynolds equation.

Findings

When the hole-entry conical journal bearings, with the restrictor design parameter range

C¯s2 = 0.03 – 0.09, are operated, the results obtained are quite distinctive and significant. It indicates that the CFV restrictor-based conical bearing gives enhanced performance in comparison to orifice and capillary restrictors. Moreover, it suggests the performance-wise sequence of the restrictors in hybrid bearings as CFV > Orifice > Capillary.

Originality/value

The outcome of the research paper will give insight to help the bearing designer to choose the particular restrictor in hybrid conical bearing depending on the industrial need.
What am I seen – who do I seem? Hidden discursive processes in the large group of a TC
Authors: Zalka Zsolt
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to present a possible way of discourse analysis of the meaning giving processes in a therapeutic community (TC).

Design/methodology/approach

Presentation of a research project, which aim is to analyse the attitudes towards the large group within the TC, is based on analysing the conceptual metaphors in semi-structured interviews.

Findings

The findings delineate a possible discourse, namely, the TC’s hidden discourse of working through the mirror-transference at the community level.

Practical implications

The paper proposes a possible content analysis method for better understanding the deep processes of the TC by examining the large group.

Social implications

The paper emphasizes the matrix of a TC as a mentalizing scene.

Originality/value

The use of linguistic methods in understanding the hidden community level mentalizing processes.
Monitoring and Evaluating Rainfall–Runoff Control Effects of a Low Impact Development System in Future Science Park of Beijing
Authors: Shen Hongbin , Xu Zongxue
Published: June 2021

Monitoring and evaluating on rainfall–runoff control effects are important in low impact development (LID) practices. This is mainly done for different individual LID facility at microscales; however, some LID systems comprise multiple facilities within a large‐scale area. Here, the Future Science Park (FSP) of Beijing City was selected as the study area. The rainfall–runoff control effects of an LID system are monitored and examined, including not only the rainfall volume capture effect but also the rainfall control mode, which is influenced by the confluence relationship. The confluence relationship between an impervious surface and LID facility can be manifest as a series or as parallel systems. When rainfall is less than the water quality capture volume, rainfall control operates in event‐capture mode for a series system and in partial‐capture mode for a parallel system. A series system is more suitable for water quality improvement and peak flow reduction. The results for the FSP indicated that the rainfall volume capture effect was acceptable; the average runoff coefficient of 16 rainfall events was about 0.10. However, rainfall control operated in a partial‐capture mode. For individual rainfall events smaller than the designed rainfall, small amounts of runoff were generated mainly by the impermeable road network. In future, the impermeable roads and green belt areas alongside the roads should include a series confluence to improve rainfall–runoff control effects.
Response to lorlatinib on a patient with ALK‐rearranged non‐small cell lung cancer harboring 1151Tins mutation with uterine metastasis
Authors: Kobayashi Takashi , Kanda Shintaro , Fukushima Toshirou , Noguchi Takuro , Sekiguchi Nodoka , Koizumi Tomonobu
Published: June 2021

We describe a case of an anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK)‐rearranged non‐small cell lung cancer with development of uterine metastasis after crizotinib and alectinib treatment. Gene analysis from the tissue of uterine metastasis revealed the presence of 1151Tins, which was considered to be a crizotinib and alectinib resistance mutation. Subsequent therapy with the third‐generation ALK inhibitor lorlatinib, but not ceritinib, showed antitumor activity for 1 year. The uterus is an uncommon site for metastasis from lung cancer, and our case indicated that serial gene analysis could provide new information about ALK inhibitor resistance.
Association of selective serotonin re‐uptake inhibitor (SSRI) treatment with acute substance misuse outcomes
Authors: Virtanen Suvi , Lagerberg Tyra , Khemiri Lotfi , Suvisaari Jaana , Larsson Henrik , Lichtenstein Paul , Chang Zheng , Latvala Antti
Published: June 2021

Background and aims

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are widely prescribed medications for patients with anxiety/depression. These patients often have problems with substance use, but it remains unclear whether the risk of substance misuse is influenced by SSRI treatment. We aimed to determine whether SSRI treatment is associated with a decreased risk of acute substance misuse‐related outcomes.

Design

Cohort study following individuals through Swedish nation‐wide registers between July 2005 and December 2013 and comparing the risk of substance misuse outcomes during periods on‐ versus off‐treatment within the same individual.

Setting

Swedish general population.

Participants

Individuals with a newly dispensed prescription of SSRIs between July 2006 and December 2013 and an ICD‐10 diagnosis of anxiety/depressive disorder before the first treatment initiation. The cohort included 146 114 individuals (60.7% women).

Measurements

Substance misuse outcomes included ICD‐10 diagnoses of acute intoxications (F10.0–F19.0), accidental poisonings by alcohol or drugs (X41–X42, X45–X46) and substance‐related criminal offenses.

Findings

The absolute rate of substance misuse increased sharply before the onset of SSRI treatment and decreased after treatment initiation. Stratified Cox regression models showed an elevated risk [hazard ratio (HR) = 1.70, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.62–1.78] of substance misuse outcomes during a 1‐month period preceding treatment initiation, compared with the reference period of more than 1 month before treatment start. The on‐treatment estimates (1–30 days, HR = 1.29, 95% CI = 1.23–1.37; 31–120 days, HR = 1.30, 95% CI = 1.24–1.35; and > 120 days, HR = 1.24, 95% CI = 1.18–1.30 after treatment initiation] were consistently lower than the 1‐month pre‐treatment estimate, but still elevated compared with the reference period.

Conclusions

For people with anxiety/depression, the risk of substance misuse appears to be particularly elevated immediately before initiating selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) treatment, which may reflect the emergence or worsening of substance use problems concurrently with anxiety/depression. SSRI treatment appears to be associated with a lower risk of substance misuse compared with the 1‐month period preceding treatment initiation, but causality remains uncertain.
Risky decision‐making as an antecedent or consequence of adolescent cannabis use: findings from a 2‐year longitudinal study
Authors: Pacheco‐Colón Ileana , Lopez‐Quintero Catalina , Coxe Stefany , Limia Jorge M. , Pulido William , Granja Karen , Paula Dayana C. , Gonzalez Ingrid , Ross J. Megan , Duperrouzel Jacqueline C. , Hawes Samuel W. , Gonzalez Raul
Published: June 2021

Background and aims

Although poor decision‐making (DM) has been correlated with problematic cannabis use (CU), cross‐sectional designs make it difficult to determine whether poor DM represents an antecedent and/or consequence of CU. The current study measured bidirectional associations between CU and DM among adolescents over 2 years and compared these findings to those observed with episodic memory, which is consistently reported as a consequence of CU. We also measured the role of DM as a risk factor for cannabis use disorder (CUD) onset.

Design

Two‐year longitudinal study with five bi‐annual assessments.

Participants

Participants were 401 adolescents aged 14–17 years at baseline.

Setting

Miami, Florida, USA.

Measurements

CU frequency and CUDs were assessed at each time‐point through the Drug Use History Questionnaire and Structured Clinical Interview for DSM‐IV, respectively. Neurocognition was assessed at odd time‐points throughout the Iowa Gambling Task, Game of Dice Task and Cups Task [decision‐making (DM)] and the Wechsler Memory Scale IV and California Verbal Learning Test II (episodic memory). We used latent growth curve modeling to examine bidirectional influences between CU and neurocognition over time. We applied discrete time survival analyses to determine whether baseline DM predicted CUD onset.

Findings

Greater lifetime CU frequency was associated with poorer episodic memory at baseline (bs = −14.84, −16.44, Ps = 0.038, 0.021). Greater CU escalation predicted lesser gains in immediate episodic memory (b = −0.05, P = 0.020). Baseline DM did not predict CU escalation (b = 0.07, P = 0.421), nor did escalation in CU predict changes in DM (b = 0.02, P = 0.352). Baseline DM also did not predict CUD onset (adjusted OR = 1.01, 95% confidence interval = 0.98–1.06).

Conclusions

This study replicates findings that poorer episodic memory in adolescents appears to be a consequence of cannabis use, even among adolescents at earlier stages of use. Poor decision‐making does not appear to be either a consequence of or a risk factor for escalating cannabis use or onset of cannabis use disorder among adolescents.
Effects of a minimal‐guided on‐line intervention for alcohol misuse in Estonia: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Augsburger Mareike , Kaal Esta , Ülesoo Triin , Wenger Andreas , Blankers Matthijs , Haug Severin , Ebert David D. , Riper Heleen , Keough Matthew , Noormets Helen , Schaub Michael P. , Kilp Karin
Published: June 2021

Background and Aims

Estonia has one of the highest alcohol‐attributable mortality rates within the European Union. The aim of this study was to estimate the efficacy of an on‐line self‐help intervention to reduce problem drinking at the population level.

Design

On‐line open randomized controlled trial with an 8‐week intervention and an active control group (intervention n = 303, control n = 286). Assessments took place at baseline and at 6 months follow‐up.

Setting

On‐ and offline channels were used for population‐based recruitment within a nation‐wide prevention campaign in Estonia.

Participants

Inclusion criteria were age ≥ 18 years, heavy drinking [Alcohol Use Disorders Identification (AUDIT) test score ≥ 8], literacy in Estonian and at least weekly access to the internet; n = 589 participants were randomized (50% male, 1% other; mean age 37.86 years; 45% with higher level of education).

Intervention and comparator

The intervention consisted of 10 modules based on principles of cognitive–behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing. The active control group received access to a website with a self‐test including personalized normative feedback and information for standard alcohol treatment.

Measurements

The primary outcome was AUDIT scores at 6 months follow‐up adjusted for baseline scores.

Findings

Intention‐to‐treat analyses were applied. Missing data were addressed by using baseline observation carried forward (BOCF) and multiple imputation by chained equations (MI); 175 completed follow‐up in the intervention group and 209 in the control group. AUDIT score at follow‐up was significantly smaller in the intervention [BOCF mean = 13.91, standard deviation (SD) = 7.61, MI mean = 11.03, SD = 6.55] than control group (BOCF mean = 15.30, SD = 7.31; MI mean = 14.30, SD = 7.21), with a group difference of −1.38 [95% confidence interval (CI) = –2.58, –0.18], P = 0.02 for BOCF and −3.26 (95% CI = –2.01, –4.51), P < 0.001 for MI.

Conclusions

A randomized controlled trial has found that an on‐line self‐help intervention with minimal guidance was effective at reducing problem drinking in Estonia.
Morphological characterization of Horsfield’s treeshrew Tupaia javanica lingual papillae: Light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy studies
Authors: Gartiwa Gian , Damia Ulfah , Megawati Emilia Ika , Pradipta Stanislaus I. D. , Gunawan Geraldus , Karnati Srikanth , Wihadmadyatami Hevi , Kusindarta Dwi Liliek
Published: June 2021

The Horsfield's treeshrew (Tupaia javanica) is one of the shrews found on the island of Java that mainly feeds on fruits and occasionally insects. This shrew has an important role in the ecosystem as it spreads plant seeds and controls insects. To this day, there is no available knowledge about the structure of Horsfield's treeshrew's tongue. Therefore, the aim of this study was to provide data on the tongue structure of the Horsfield's treeshrew through two different methods. We investigated the tongue morphology and lingual papillae distribution of Tupaia javanica using 1) scanning electron microscopy (SEM) for microscopic structure and 2) histology for microscopic organization. Our macroscopic results revealed that the tongue of Tupaia javanica can be divided into three parts: apex, corpus and radix. The dorsal surface of the medial corpus is the median groove extending to the radix. Observation using SEM and light microscopy (LM) showed that the apex of the tongue bears three types of papillae: scale‐like filiform, small filiform and fungiform. These are rosette filiform papillae, cornflower filiform papillae, conical papillae and fungiform papillae in the corpus. Meanwhile, the radix contains small filiform papillae, scale‐like filiform papillae, vallate papillae, conical papillae and fungiform papillae. On the lateral posterior radix, Weber's gland reacts positively to PAS reaction. Taking together, our research shows that there are variations in the papillae on the tongue surface of Horsfield's treeshrew, and the variations of these papillae are very dependent on the pattern, type of food and the function of the tongue.
A narrative review of the roles of topical permethrin and oral ivermectin in the management of infantile scabies
Authors: Lobo Yolanka , Wheller Laura
Published: June 2021

As standard treatments are not licensed for use in the infantile population, the treatment of scabies in this age group can be challenging. We review the relevant evidence to determine the roles of topical permethrin and oral ivermectin in the management of infantile scabies. Demographic and clinical data were collected from relevant English articles published from January 2000 to December 2020. Complete resolution was observed in 100% of infants younger than two months treated with permethrin, and 87.6% of infants aged 12 months or less and/or children weighing under 15 kg treated with ivermectin. Adverse effects from permethrin use were limited to local eczematous reactions. Adverse effects from ivermectin use included mildly elevated creatine kinase levels, eczema flare‐ups, diarrhoea, vomiting, irritability, pruritus and pustular skin reactions. Overall, both permethrin and ivermectin appear to have an acceptable safety profile in infants. Permethrin is highly effective as a first‐line therapy for scabies in infants younger than two months. Ivermectin use is recommended when authorised topical treatment has failed, in crusted scabies, in cases where compliance with topical agents may be problematic, and in infants with severely inflamed or broken skin where prescription of topical therapies would likely cause cutaneous and systemic toxicity. Additional high‐quality studies are needed to guide best practice in the management of infantile scabies.
Co‐operative enterprise anti‐cyclicality and the economic crisis: A comparative analysis of employment dynamics in Italy
Authors: Borzaga Carlo , Carini Chiara , Tortia Ermanno Celeste
Published: June 2021

The theoretical and empirical literature reports that worker co‐operatives protect employment better than investor‐owned firms (IOFs) do, especially during economic downturns. This paper introduces the new hypothesis that not only worker co‐operatives but all co‐operative types (e.g. worker, producer, consumer, credit) protect employment better than IOFs do because they all satisfy their members’ needs—instead of maximizing shareholder value—by delivering a stable stream of goods and services. A long‐standing pattern in needs satisfaction implies constant activity and employment. To substantiate our hypothesis theoretically, we resort to the evolutionary interpretation of the firm as a problem solver and to the literature on organizational resilience. We test the hypothesis using the data released by the Italian Institute of Statistics for all Italian enterprises in the 1996–2008 pre‐crisis and 2008–15 crisis periods. Dynamic multifactor partitioning confirms that in Italy, all typologies of co‐operatives withstood the crisis better than other business forms did and that co‐operatives were affected the least by economic cyclicality and employment loss.
Apixaban or enoxaparin: Which is better for thromboprophylaxis after total hip and total knee arthroplasty in Indian patients?
Authors: Kunal Kishor , Banerjee Sumit , Garg Pawan Kumar , Elhence Abhay
Published: June 2021

Both apixaban and enoxaparin are Food and Drug Administration‐approved standard therapy for prophylaxis of deep‐vein thrombosis; however, the superiority of one over the other is still controversial. With an objective to observe efficacy and safety outcomes of apixaban and enoxaparin in patients undergoing total hip (THA) and knee (TKA) arthroplasty, 96 patients undergoing THA/TKA (October 2018 to August 2019) were randomly allocated into 2 groups; (n = 48) apixaban; and (n = 48) enoxaparin. Efficacy outcomes and safety outcomes were recorded at 2 and 5 weeks post‐TKA/THA. Follow‐up functional scoring was done at 6 months postoperatively. Apixaban and enoxaparin were found to be equally efficacious in preventing venous thromboembolism; however, apixaban had a better safety profile. The apixaban group had nonsignificant higher tendency for wound discharge, atrial fibrillation and transient ischaemic attack. Enoxaparin had nonsignificant greater tendency for bleeding, wound dehiscence and pulmonary complications. Apixaban is a safe alternative to conventionally used enoxaparin for chemoprophylaxis in patients undergoing THA or TKA.
An online randomized controlled trial and survey of behavioural factors influencing patients’ willingness to attend a video consultation
Authors: Schmidtke Kelly Ann , Kudrna Laura , Quinn Laura , Vlaev Ivo , Hemmings Karla , Lilford Richard
Published: June 2021

Objectives

To examine whether the phrasing of a hospital appointment invitation influences patient preference to attend in person or by video. The study also explores patient capabilities, opportunities, and motivations to attend video consultations.

Design

A randomized controlled trial followed by a cross‐sectional survey.

Methods

Participants (1,481 total, 780 females) were residents of the United Kingdom who self‐identified as being diagnosed with a chronic disease. Participants considered one of three hypothetical invitations. In one group, participants were invited to attend in person. Those in another group were invited to attend by video. These participants could either accept the invitation or request the other option. In the final ‘active choice’ group, participants were asked to choose to attend either in‐person or by video appointment. Then, all participants responded to open‐ and closed‐ended items about attending video consultations.

Results

When the default option was in person, 25% of participants chose video consultation, compared with 41% in the active choice group (RR = 1.65, 95% CI: 1.37–1.99, p < .001) and 65% in the default video group (RR = 2.60, 95% CI: 2.20–2.96, p < .001). Closed‐ended responses suggested that younger patients and those with previous experience were more likely to prefer video consultations. Most open‐ended responses contained themes about opportunities, followed by motivations and then capabilities.

Conclusions

Patients are more likely to express a preference to attend by video when video is the default option. The real‐world effectiveness of this intervention is more likely to be realized where hospitals also support patient capabilities, opportunities, and motivations.
A novel variant in the DSE gene leads to Ehlers–Danlos musculocontractural type 2 in a Pakistani family
Authors: Ullah Ikram , Aamir Muhammad , Ilyas Muhammad , Ahmed Akmal , Jelani Musharraf , Ullah Wahid , Abbas Muhammad , Ishfaq Muhammad , Ali Fawad , Yip Janice , Efthymiou Stephanie , Ahmed Habib , Houlden Henry
Published: June 2021

The Ehlers–Danlos syndrome (EDS) is a group of heritable connective tissue disorders. Common features of EDS include skin hyperextensibility, articular hypermobility, and tissue fragility. It is classified into 13 subtypes, caused by variations of more than 19 different genes. Among these two subtypes, EDS musculocontractural type 1 (EDSMC1/mcEDS‐CHST14; MIM# 601776) is caused by biallelic mutations in the CHST14 gene (MIM# 608429) on chromosome 15q14 and EDS musculocontractural type 2 (EDSMC2/mcEDS‐DSE;MIM#615539) is caused by a mutation in DSE (MIM# 605942) on chromosome 6q22. In this study, clinical and molecular diagnoses have been performed for a consanguineous Pakistani (Pakhtun) family with five affected siblings, presenting mcEDS‐DSE phenotype. Whole‐exome sequencing analysis identified a novel homozygous DSE variant (NM_001080976.1; c.2813T>A, p.Val938Asp) in the proband. Sanger sequencing in all available affected members and their obligate carriers confirmed autosomal recessive segregation of the diseased allele. To the best of our knowledge, this variant identified is novel and expands the DSE pathogenicity leading to EDS, musculocontractural type 2. The result obtained has the potential to help in early diagnosis, genetic counseling, and possible therapeutic inventions.
Texture Browser: Feature‐based Texture Exploration
Authors: Luo Xuejiao , Scandolo Leonardo , Eisemann Elmar
Published: June 2021

Texture is a key characteristic in the definition of the physical appearance of an object and a crucial element in the creation process of 3D artists. However, retrieving a texture that matches an intended look from an image collection is difficult. Contrary to most photo collections, for which object recognition has proven quite useful, syntactic descriptions of texture characteristics is not straightforward, and even creating appropriate metadata is a very difficult task. In this paper, we propose a system to help explore large unlabeled collections of texture images. The key insight is that spatially grouping textures sharing similar features can simplify navigation. Our system uses a pre‐trained convolutional neural network to extract high‐level semantic image features, which are then mapped to a 2‐dimensional location using an adaptation of t‐SNE, a dimensionality‐reduction technique. We describe an interface to visualize and explore the resulting distribution and provide a series of enhanced navigation tools, our prioritized t‐SNE, scalable clustering, and multi‐resolution embedding, to further facilitate exploration and retrieval tasks. Finally, we also present the results of a user evaluation that demonstrates the effectiveness of our solution.
Accessible Visualization: Design Space, Opportunities, and Challenges
Authors: Kim N. W. , Joyner S. C. , Riegelhuth A. , Kim Y.
Published: June 2021

Visualizations are now widely used across disciplines to understand and communicate data. The benefit of visualizations lies in leveraging our natural visual perception. However, the sole dependency on vision can produce unintended discrimination against people with visual impairments. While the visualization field has seen enormous growth in recent years, supporting people with disabilities is much less explored. In this work, we examine approaches to support this marginalized user group, focusing on visual disabilities. We collected and analyzed papers published for the last 20 years on visualization accessibility. We mapped a design space for accessible visualization that includes seven dimensions: user group, literacy task, chart type, interaction, information granularity, sensory modality, assistive technology. We described the current knowledge gap in light of the latest advances in visualization and presented a preliminary accessibility model by synthesizing findings from existing research. Finally, we reflected on the dimensions and discussed opportunities and challenges for future research.
A Deeper Understanding of Visualization‐Text Interplay in Geographic Data‐driven Stories
Authors: Latif Shahid , Chen Siming , Beck Fabian
Published: June 2021

Data‐driven stories comprise of visualizations and a textual narrative. The two representations coexist and complement each other. Although existing research has explored the design strategies and structure of such stories, it remains an open research question how the two representations play together on a detailed level and how they are linked with each other. In this paper, we aim at understanding the fine‐grained interplay of text and visualizations in geographic data‐driven stories. We focus on geographic content as it often includes complex spatiotemporal data presented as versatile visualizations and rich textual descriptions. We conduct a qualitative empirical study on 22 stories collected from a variety of news media outlets; 10 of the stories report the COVID‐19 pandemic, the others cover diverse topics. We investigate the role of every sentence and visualization within the narrative to reveal how they reference each other and interact. Moreover, we explore the positioning and sequence of various parts of the narrative to find patterns that further consolidate the stories. Drawing from the findings, we discuss study implications with respect to best practices and possibilities to automate the report generation.
Implicit Modeling of Patient‐Specific Aortic Dissections with Elliptic Fourier Descriptors
Authors: Mistelbauer G. , Rössl C. , Bäumler K. , Preim B. , Fleischmann D.
Published: June 2021

Aortic dissection is a life‐threatening vascular disease characterized by abrupt formation of a new flow channel (false lumen) within the aortic wall. Survivors of the acute phase remain at high risk for late complications, such as aneurysm formation, rupture, and death. Morphologic features of aortic dissection determine not only treatment strategies in the acute phase (surgical vs. endovascular vs. medical), but also modulate the hemodynamics in the false lumen, ultimately responsible for late complications. Accurate description of the true and false lumen, any communications across the dissection membrane separating the two lumina, and blood supply from each lumen to aortic branch vessels is critical for risk prediction. Patient‐specific surface representations are also a prerequisite for hemodynamic simulations, but currently require time‐consuming manual segmentation of CT data. We present an aortic dissection cross‐sectional model that captures the varying aortic anatomy, allowing for reliable measurements and creation of high‐quality surface representations. In contrast to the traditional spline‐based cross‐sectional model, we employ elliptic Fourier descriptors, which allows users to control the accuracy of the cross‐sectional contour of a flow channel. We demonstrate (i) how our approach can solve the requirements for generating surface and wall representations of the flow channels, (ii) how any number of communications between flow channels can be specified in a consistent manner, and (iii) how well branches connected to the respective flow channels are handled. Finally, we discuss how our approach is a step forward to an automated generation of surface models for aortic dissections from raw 3D imaging segmentation masks.
Scalar Field Comparison with Topological Descriptors: Properties and Applications for Scientific Visualization
Authors: Yan Lin , Masood Talha Bin , Sridharamurthy Raghavendra , Rasheed Farhan , Natarajan Vijay , Hotz Ingrid , Wang Bei
Published: June 2021

In topological data analysis and visualization, topological descriptors such as persistence diagrams, merge trees, contour trees, Reeb graphs, and Morse–Smale complexes play an essential role in capturing the shape of scalar field data. We present a state‐of‐the‐art report on scalar field comparison using topological descriptors. We provide a taxonomy of existing approaches based on visualization tasks associated with three categories of data: single fields, time‐varying fields, and ensembles. These tasks include symmetry detection, periodicity detection, key event/feature detection, feature tracking, clustering, and structure statistics. Our main contributions include the formulation of a set of desirable mathematical and computational properties of comparative measures, and the classification of visualization tasks and applications that are enabled by these measures.
Point cloud computing algorithm on object surface based on virtual reality technology
Authors: Zhang Wanyi , Fu Xiuhua , Li Wei
Published: June 2021

Virtual reality technology is also known as VR technology. Accurately acquiring the three‐dimensional model of the point cloud on the surface of an object is a key part of virtual reality technology, and is also a research hotspot of virtual reality technology. The purpose of this article is to study the object surface point cloud computing algorithm based on virtual reality technology and its application problems and to solve the problems in the virtual reality technology object surface point cloud data algorithm, by reconstructing the geometry of the object surface in VR technology. The calculation rules at the time of data acquisition have been carried out in detailed research on the point cloud space carving algorithm based on the surface of multi‐eye visual objects. The research results show that the point cloud space carving algorithm on the surface of the virtual reality technology has a high degree of independence and the algorithm is very flexible. Compared with other algorithms, it reduces the operation steps by 35%, the 3D effect is increased by 21%, and the operation cost is reduced by 30%. The object surface point cloud computing algorithm based on virtual reality technology can greatly improve the computing efficiency, compared with the traditional two‐dimensional visual image integration algorithm, the efficiency is increased by 35%, and the computing accuracy in virtual reality technology is the same as the traditional two The accuracy of the integrated algorithm of dimensional visual pictures is improved by 44% compared to the accuracy. The experimental results verify the feasibility of applying the spatial carving algorithm to the three‐dimensional reconstruction of point cloud data on the surface of virtual reality technology objects.
A nutrient‐rich traditional insect for improving food security and reducing biodiversity loss in Madagascar and sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Borgerson Cortni , Fisher Brian L. , Razafindrapaoly Be Noel , Rasolofoniaina Be Jean Rodolph , Randriamanetsy Jeanne Mathilde , Razafindrapaoly Be Lexion , Rajaona Delox , Herrera Patsy , Van Itterbeeck Joost , Martinez Kenneth M. , Aardema Matthew L.
Published: June 2021

Forests, and the vertebrate species within them, are irreplaceable sources of food and nutrition for millions of people living in areas of high biodiversity. Unfortunately, many of these forests are being cleared for agriculture, and many animals are threatened with extinction from unsustainable hunting. Forest clearing and the hunting of threatened species are untenable solutions to long‐term food insecurity and adequate nutrition, jeopardizing these species' survival, the healthy functioning of ecosystems, and the cultural identities of local people. Working with communities to develop culturally appropriate ways for people to obtain sustainable and legal sources of food from forests outside of protected areas is a key component of improving both conservation and food security. We tested the feasibility, suitability, and viability of farming an abundant and traditionally eaten forest insect, Zanna tenebrosa (locally known as sakondry), in rural communities whose food security relies heavily on the hunting of threatened vertebrates. We found that the insect is high in macro‐ and micronutrients, and can be cheaply, easily, and sustainably cultivated to sustainably diversify forest food systems without increasing habitat loss. Given the range of Z. tenebrosa, which covers a broad swath of central Africa, increasing production of this native insect may support multipronged agroecological approaches to promoting food security, adequate nutrition, and wildlife conservation.
Association between dd‐cfDNA levels, de novo donor specific antibodies, and eGFR decline: An analysis of the DART cohort
Authors: Sawinski Deirdre L. , Mehta Shikha , Alhamad Tarek , Bromberg Jonathan S. , Fischbach Bernard , Aeschbacher Thomas , Ghosh Srinka , Shekhtman Grigoriy , Dholakia Sham , Brennan Daniel C. , Poggio Emilio , Bloom Roy D. , Jordan Stanley C.
Published: June 2021

Background

Donor‐derived cell‐free DNA (dd‐cfDNA) is a marker of allograft injury in transplant recipients; however, the relationship between dd‐cfDNA and other clinical parameters associated with adverse allograft outcomes is not well‐characterized.

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of kidney transplant recipients from the DART cohort (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02424227) to evaluate the associations between eGFR decline, de novo donor‐specific antibodies (dnDSA), and dd‐cfDNA.

Results

Both elevated dd‐cfDNA (≥1%) and dd‐cfDNA variability (≥.34%) in the first post‐transplant year were associated with decline in eGFR ≥25% in the second year (21.4% vs. 4.1%, P = .005; 25% vs. 3.6%, P = .002, respectively). Compared to samples from DSA negative patients, samples from patients with concurrent de novo HLA DSAs had higher dd‐cfDNA levels (P < .0001).

Discussion

Abnormalities in dd‐cfDNA levels are associated with clinical parameters commonly used as surrogate endpoints for adverse allograft outcomes, raising the possibility that molecular injury as characterized by dd‐cfDNA could help identify patients at risk of these outcomes.
An endogenous analysis of early school leaving in Spain: The role of gender and regional inequalities
Authors: Bayón‐Calvo Siro , Lucas‐García Jezabel , Gómez‐García Rogelio
Published: June 2021

Early school leaving is a major social problem and a socio‐political priority in knowledge‐based societies, especially in southern European countries that have a tendency for comparatively high dropout rates. The literature has focused strongly on the exogenous factors that cause students to leave school early. Meanwhile, endogenous factors, such as scholastic performance, educational attainment or the holistic needs of students are also important to consider. Early school leaving represents the culmination of a process of disengagement; this article analyses some of the endogenous factors behind it. To this end, we compare early school leaving with educational results from previous stages. We focus on regional and gender inequalities in Spain, where early school leaving rates are the highest in the European Union. The results confirm the correlation between weak scholastic performance and early school leaving. They also reveal that regional and gender imbalances persist.
Assessment of psychiatric comorbidities and serotonergic or noradrenergic medication use on blood pressure using 24‐hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring
Authors: Niazi Shehzad K. , Memon Sobia H. , Lesser Elizabeth R. , Brennan Emily , Aslam Nabeel
Published: June 2021

In this study, the authors aimed to assess both nighttime and daytime blood pressure (BP) variability using 24‐hour ambulatory BP monitoring (ABPM) in persons with and without psychiatric conditions and with or without selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or serotonin‐norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) treatment. In this retrospective study, patients who underwent psychiatric evaluation and ABPM within 6 months of each other between January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2017 were identified using billing data. Participants were divided into three groups—participants with no psychiatric diagnosis and no psychiatric medicine (−Diagnosis/−Medication), those with psychiatric diagnosis and on SSRIs/SNRIs (+Diagnosis/+Medication), and psychiatric diagnosis but no psychiatric medications (+Diagnosis/−Medication). Day and nighttime systolic and diastolic BPs were compared between groups controlling for relevant variables using multivariable linear regression models. A total of 475 participants met inclusion criteria including 135 in the −Diagnosis/−Medication group, 232 in the +Diagnosis/+Medication group, and 108 in the +Diagnosis/−Medication group. In adjusted multivariable analysis, the +Diagnosis/+Medication group had higher nighttime systolic BP (median 120 vs 110 mm (Hg); p = .01) and nighttime diastolic BP (median 68 vs 63 mm (Hg); p = .006) as compared to −Diagnosis/−Medication. No statistically significant differences in BPs between the −Diagnosis/−Medication and +Diagnosis/−Medication groups were observed, after adjustment. Use of SSRIs/SNRIs was associated with significantly higher nocturnal systolic and diastolic BP among patients with psychiatric diagnosis using SSRIs/SNRIs but not associated with psychiatric diagnosis without SSRI/SNRI use. SSRIs/SNRIs use may be associated with higher BP levels and this merits future prospective studies using ABPM to assess day and nighttime BP changes with SSRIs/SNRIs use.
Oncology clinical practice guidelines usage among physicians in Nepal
Authors: Bhandari Divya , Ozaki Akihiko , Ghimire Bikal , Sigdel Shailendra , Shrestha Ranish , Shrestha Sunil , Higuchi Asaka , Uprety Anup , Tsubokura Masaharu , Tanimoto Tetsuya , Singh Yogendra Prasad
Published: June 2021

Objective

Oncology clinical practice guidelines (OCPGs) are systematically developed evidence‐based recommendations aimed to guide practitioners in decision making during the diagnosis, management, and treatment of cancer patients under specific circumstances, thereby optimizing clinical outcomes. However, little is known about the implementation of those guidelines in low and middle‐income countries including Nepal. This research aimed to identify the type of OCPGs used by Nepalese physicians working in oncology departments and to explore barriers and facilitators affecting their use.

Methods

Using the total population sampling technique, we conducted an online cross‐sectional survey from June 2020 to January 2021 among physicians working in the oncology departments of Nepal. Descriptive analyses were conducted to summarize the research findings.

Results

Out of 171 physicians approached for the study, 102 (59.6%) responded to the questionnaire. The sizable proportions of the participants were a senior group of physicians with 27.5% being consultants, 14.7% senior consultants, and 16.7% professors. The most commonly used guideline was the National Comprehensive Cancer Network guideline of the United States (75.5%) followed by the American Society of Clinical Oncology guideline (44.7%). While only 22.6% of physicians reported using OCPGs every time, more than half (56.9%) highlighted that OCPGs are not feasible to implement in Nepal. Insufficient facilities/equipment, physicians' unwillingness to change their usual practice, inability to discuss research with knowledgeable colleagues, and lack of time were commonly cited barriers.

Conclusion

Findings of our study highlighted that the OCPGs developed in high‐income countries may not be feasible for low resource settings like Nepal. Comprehensive local OCPGs should be developed considering the available resources, feasibility, and financial constraints of patients. Furthermore, a constant sharing and learning environment should be created to enhance the knowledge of practicing physicians and to promote the proper implementation of evidence‐based findings.