bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crystal structure and magnetism in theS= 1/2 spin dimer compound NaCu2VP2O10
Authors: Urushihara Daisuke , Kawaguchi Sota , Fukuda Koichiro , Asaka Toru
Published: May 2020

The crystal structure of the spin dimer magnet NaCu2VP2O10was determined using single-crystal X-ray diffraction and electron diffraction. NaCu2VP2O10displayed a non-centrosymmetric orthorhombicC2221structure witha= 6.13860 (10) Å,b= 14.4846 (3) Å andc= 8.2392 (2) Å. The layered structure comprised CuO4plaquettes, VO6octahedra and PO4tetrahedra. A pair of CuO4plaquettes formed Cu2O6structural dimers through edge sharing. The Cu–Cu network formed a distorted puckered-layer structure with pseudo-one-dimensional characteristics. Maximum magnetic susceptibility was observed at ∼60 K and NaCu2VP2O10became non-magnetic upon further cooling. The spin gap between the spin-singlet non-magnetic ground state and triplet excited state was estimated to be 43.4 K. Thus, NaCu2VP2O10was assumed to be an alternating chain system with a singlet ground state of dimer origin. The V5+ions in the VO6octahedra showed large off-centre displacements along the [110] direction in the primitive perovskite structure, which were attributed to the pseudo-Jahn–Teller distortion ofd0transition metals.
Self-assembly of a cobalt(II)-based metal–organic framework as an effective water-splitting heterogeneous catalyst for light-driven hydrogen production
Authors: Dou Yong , Yang Lu , Qin Lan , Dong Yunhui , Zhou Zhen , Zhang Daopeng , Wang Suna
Published: May 2020

The solar photocatalysis of water splitting represents a significant branch of enzymatic simulation by efficient chemical conversion and the generation of hydrogen as green energy provides a feasible way for the replacement of fossil fuels to solve energy and environmental issues. We report herein the self-assembly of a CoII-based metal–organic framework (MOF) constructed from 4,4′,4′′,4′′′-(ethene-1,1,2,2-tetrayl)tetrabenzoic acid [or tetrakis(4-carboxyphenyl)ethylene, H4TCPE] and 4,4′-bipyridyl (bpy) as four-point- and two-point-connected nodes, respectively. This material, namely, poly[(μ-4,4′-bipyridyl)[μ8-4,4′,4′′,4′′′-(ethene-1,1,2,2-tetrayl)tetrabenzoato]cobalt(II)], [Co(C30H16O8)(C10H8N2)]
n
, crystallized as dark-red block-shaped crystals with high crystallinity and was fully characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction, PXRD, IR, solid-state UV–Vis and cyclic voltammetry (CV) measurements. The redox-active CoII atoms in the structure could be used as the catalytic sites for hydrogen production via water splitting. The application of this new MOF as a heterogeneous catalyst for light-driven H2 production has been explored in a three-component system with fluorescein as photosensitizer and trimethylamine as the sacrificial electron donor, and the initial volume of H2 production is about 360 µmol after 12 h irradiation.
Risk mitigation modelling of international construction projects executed by Indian firms: a structural equation modelling approach
Authors: Viswanathan Satish Kumar , Jha Kumar Neeraj
Published: May 2020

Purpose

A number of previous studies have investigated international construction project risks and have proposed risk mitigation measures without examining their interdependence. The purpose of the current study is to identify the influence of various risk mitigation measures on macro-level risk factors in the international marketplace.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors initially identified 26 risk variables and nine risk mitigation measures through a literature review, which were then verified for their pertinence to international projects by three experts. Subsequently, 105 questionnaire survey responses were collected and analysed using factor analysis and structural equation modelling to test the interrelations between the risk variables and mitigation measures.

Findings

The findings suggest that joint ventures with local partners is emerged as the most critical risk mitigation measure that influences the international projects, which are exposed to political, project and firm-specific risk factors. Further, it is worth noting that among the recognised risk mitigation measures in international projects, offering more local employment is the least critical mitigation measure in the international projects.

Research limitations/implications

The findings of this study are based on the macro-risk factors encountered by Indian construction firms in international projects, mostly from specific Asian and African regions. Thus, the opinions of construction firms from the developed countries might be different.

Originality/value

The main contribution of this study to existing knowledge is empirical evidence of the interrelationships between risk mitigation measures and risk factors that are portrayed as latent variables of different manifest risk variables. The generated model can assist construction firms in emphasising several risk mitigation methods, in order to reduce risk and enhance performance in international construction projects.
What drives the failure of private participation in infrastructure projects?
Authors: Ruiz Díaz Gonzalo
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess the determinants of the early termination of infrastructure projects implemented under public–private partnerships (PPP), concessions or privately managed divested assets.

Design/methodology/approach

Cross-section and duration model estimations were applied to a sample of 2,655 infrastructure projects implemented in Latin America and the Caribbean for the period 1993–2017. Estimation techniques consist of a logistic model and cox proportional hazards model (CPHM) applied to alternative specifications, including diverse causal factors.

Findings

Evidence is found that early termination of infrastructure projects is determined by intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Among the intrinsic factors, the main characteristics of projects that increase the likelihood of failure are the size or scale of the project, the sector in which the project is developed (transport and water and sanitation) and being investments in divested assets. Extrinsic factors that showed a negative impact on the risk of early termination are good regulatory quality and domestic macroeconomic stability. Likewise, external real and financial shocks also contribute importantly to explain the likelihood of early termination of infrastructure projects.

Practical implications

The results reveal that particular care must be put in design and supervision of large-scale projects, either in transport or water and sanitation. As well, risks associated with external shocks must be explicitly acknowledged in project design, with appropriate remedies and safeguards. The prevalence of relatively high rates of early termination in projects in divested assets in contrast with PPP suggests the importance of introducing simpler way out mechanisms for concessionaires. Finally, the results show the key importance of institutional factors like regulatory quality in determining project failure on economic performance of infrastructure projects.

Originality/value

In contrast to the previous literature, the analysis shows the decisive role played by financial external factors and institutional factors of Latin American and Caribbean countries in early termination of private participation in infrastructure projects. As well, the finding of a higher likelihood of failure in projects that involve investments in divested assets versus concession or PPP suggests the need of investigate further the tradeoffs regarding the balance that must exist among guarantees offered to investors in infrastructure projects and the need to keep contractual decisions in line with market signals.
The affecting factors of childbirth fear for pregnant women admitted to a health center and university hospital in Turkey
Authors: Kaya Didem , Evcili Funda
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Fear of birth may cause perinatal complication, increased risk of intervention and need for analgesia, delayed mother–infant attachment process and deterioration of spouse relationship. The purpose of this study was to determine the affecting factors and childbirth fears of Turkish pregnant women.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a descriptive research type. The sample of this study consisted of 78 pregnant women who met the inclusion criteria and agreed to participate in this study. This study was carried out in a family health center and university hospital in a city in Turkey. Data were collected with Personal Information Form and Wijma Expectancy/Experience Scale-A Version (W-DEQ A).

Findings

The mean scores of pregnant women from W-DEQ A version were 75.60 ± 9.48. In 65.4% of pregnant women, fear of severe birth, 20.5% fear of clinical birth and 14.1% of children had a fear of moderate birth. W-DEQ A version, the third trimester, unplanned pregnancies, lack of knowledge of the level of inadequate birth and more than eight pregnancies in pregnancy, the total score of pregnant women was found to be higher (p < 0.05).

Research limitations/implications

The limitation of this study is its small sample size. Further studies with larger sample sizes are needed.

Practical implications

It was determined that one-fifth of the sample group experienced birth fear at the clinical level and childbirth fear level is associated with unplanned pregnancies, lack of knowledge. In antenatal period, the pregnant woman should be encouraged to express her feelings and thoughts about the labor and give information about the labor.

Social implications

Cognitive and behavioral education programs can be structured to cope with fear of birth for pregnant women at risk.

Originality/value

This research is original. This study presents data on Turkish women. The data can also be used to evaluate intercultural differences.
Fire resistance of the vertical glass structures with thermal protection foil
Authors: Jakab András , Hlavicka Viktor , Restás Ágoston , Lubloy Eva
Published: May 2020

Purpose

During the building designing, it is very important to deal with the fire resistance of the structures. The designed materials for escape routes should be selected to ensure the usability of the structures until the time of escape. Planning affects the glass structures similarly, so these can also be partition walls and load bearing structures, although the latter is less applied on escape routes. The heat protection of the glasses can be improved with heat-protective foils, while fire protection is provided by gel intumescent material.

Design/methodology/approach

To research the topic of fire resistance, laboratory experiments were carried out on small-scaled glass elements with thermal protection foil at Budapest University of Technology and Economics at the Department of Construction Materials and Technologies.

Findings

Fire protection of small model specimens was tested with blowtorch fire and furnace heat load. During the experiments, six foils were tested. Single pane glass, double layered and triple glazed specimens were tested with blowtorch fire.

Originality/value

Fire protection of small model specimens was tested with blowtorch fire and furnace heat load. During the experiments, six foils were tested. Single pane glass, double layered and triple glazed specimens were tested with blowtorch fire. In case of heat-protected glazing, the foils on the “protected” side of the single pane glass do not have a fire protection effect based on blowtorch fire test. For double glassed specimens, the P35 foil has a perceptible effect, even for the requirements of the flame breakthrough (E, integrity), when the foil is placed on the inner side (position 3) of the second glass layer. The stratification of each triple glazed specimens was effective against blowtorch fire load (3 M, S4&P35), so (EI, integrity and isolation) it can meet the requirements of flame breakthrough and thermal insulation.
Underwriter reputation and IPO valuation in an emerging market: evidence from Malaysia
Authors: Ong Chui Zi , Mohd-Rashid Rasidah , Taufil-Mohd Kamarun Nisham
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the influence of underwriter reputation on the valuation of Malaysian initial public offerings (IPOs).

Design/methodology/approach

This study employed cross-sectional multiple regression models to analyse the relationship between underwriter reputation and IPO valuation that included 466 IPOs listed on Bursa Malaysia from 2000 to 2017.

Findings

The results revealed that underwriter reputation had a significant negative association with IPO valuation. Firms that engaged the services of reputable underwriters had their IPO offer prices set lower than the intrinsic values during the listing. After incorporating firms' size, this study found a positive relationship between underwriter reputation and IPO valuation. Big firms (high quality) hired reputable underwriters for certification purposes as issuers were aware that the cost of hiring a reputable underwriter would be justified by increased transparency after listing. Therefore, firms that engaged reputable underwriters had approximately fair values since issuers assumed that the price would be close to the intrinsic value following enhanced transparency post-listing.

Research limitations/implications

Future studies should focus on other non-financial factors, such as auditor reputation.

Originality/value

The present study provides new insights into the certification role of underwriters in valuing IPOs in the Malaysian market.
Enhancing job satisfaction through work–family enrichment and perceived supervisor support: the case of Australian social workers
Authors: Kalliath Parveen , Kalliath Thomas , Chan Xi Wen , Chan Christopher
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Drawing on the conservation of resources theory and social exchange theory, this study aims to examine the underlying relationships linking work-to-family enrichment (WFE) and family-to-work enrichment (FWE) to perceived supervisor support and ultimately, job satisfaction among social workers.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from members of a social work professional body (n = 439) through an internet-based questionnaire and analysed using confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modelling.

Findings

Perceived supervisor support mediated the relationships between work–family enrichment (specifically, WFE-Development, WFE-Affect and FWE-Efficiency) and job satisfaction.

Research limitations/implications

Social workers who worked in a positive work environment that uplifts their moods and attitudes (WFE-Affect), have access to intellectual and personal development (WFE-Development) and felt supported by their supervisors reported higher levels of job satisfaction. Those who possessed enrichment resources were found to be more efficient (FWE-Efficiency) also perceived their supervisors to be supportive and experienced higher job satisfaction. Future studies should consider other professional groups and incorporate a longitudinal design.

Practical implications

Promoting work–family enrichment among social workers can contribute to positive work outcomes such as perceived supervisor support and job satisfaction. HR practitioners, supervisors and organisations can promote work–family enrichment among social workers through introduction of family-friendly policies (e.g. flexitime, compressed workweek schedules) and providing a supportive work–family friendly environment for social workers.

Originality/value

Although several work–family studies have linked work–family enrichment to job satisfaction, the present study shows how each dimension of WFE and FWE affects social workers' job satisfaction.
Yellow Fever Discovering the Cause and Designing Effective Experiments
Authors: Fricker Ronald D. , Rigdon Steven E.
Published: May 2020

Ronald D. Fricker, Jr and Steven E. Rigdon tell the story of medical researchers in the late nineteenth century, some of whom went to extreme lengths to identify the transmission mechanism of a killer disease
MInOSSE: A new method to reconstruct geographic ranges of fossil species
Authors: Carotenuto Francesco , Di Febbraro Mirko , Mondanaro Alessandro , Castiglione Silvia , Serio Carmela , Melchionna Marina , Rook Lorenzo , Raia Pasquale
Published: May 2020

Estimating fossil species' geographic range is a major goal for paleobiologists. In the deep time, this is most commonly performed by using polygon‐based methods such as the minimum convex polygon (MCP) or the Alpha‐Hull. Unfortunately, such methods provide a poor representation of the fossil species' actual range, because they are unable to take control of the severe stochastic and taphonomic biases.

Here, we introduce MInOSSE (massively interpolated occurrences for species spatial estimation), a model‐based method that combines a machine learning algorithm and geostatistical approaches to reconstruct a target fossil species' geographic ranges by relying on the distribution of other coeval species and without using environmental predictors.

We tested MInOSSE by using many simulated fossil species' distributions, comparing its performance with MCP and Alpha‐Hull outcomes and applying it to real case studies.

In all simulations, MInOSSE outperformed the competing methods. Interestingly, the superior performance of MInOSSE becomes more apparent when the fossil record of the target species is scarce, that is, when appropriate range reconstruction is most problematic with polygon‐based methods.

MInOSSE is a powerful tool for researchers interested in studying geographic range evolution, effects of range size on extinction risk, as well as biodiversity dynamics and macroecological patterns in the deep time.
Altered glucocorticoid metabolism represents a feature of macroph‐aging
Authors: Valbuena Perez Jenny Vanessa , Linnenberger Rebecca , Dembek Anna , Bruscoli Stefano , Riccardi Carlo , Schulz Marcel H. , Meyer Markus R. , Kiemer Alexandra K. , Hoppstädter Jessica
Published: May 2020

The aging process is characterized by a chronic, low‐grade inflammatory state, termed “inflammaging.” It has been suggested that macrophage activation plays a key role in the induction and maintenance of this state. In the present study, we aimed to elucidate the mechanisms responsible for aging‐associated changes in the myeloid compartment of mice. The aging phenotype, characterized by elevated cytokine production, was associated with a dysfunction of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis and diminished serum corticosteroid levels. In particular, the concentration of corticosterone, the major active glucocorticoid in rodents, was decreased. This could be explained by an impaired expression and activity of 11β‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (11β‐HSD1), an enzyme that determines the extent of cellular glucocorticoid responses by reducing the corticosteroids cortisone/11‐dehydrocorticosterone to their active forms cortisol/corticosterone, in aged macrophages and peripheral leukocytes. These changes were accompanied by a downregulation of the glucocorticoid receptor target gene glucocorticoid‐induced leucine zipper (GILZ) in vitro and in vivo. Since GILZ plays a central role in macrophage activation, we hypothesized that the loss of GILZ contributed to the process of macroph‐aging. The phenotype of macrophages from aged mice was indeed mimicked in young GILZ knockout mice. In summary, the current study provides insight into the role of glucocorticoid metabolism and GILZ regulation during aging.
Immigration does not offset harvest mortality in groups of a cooperatively breeding carnivore
Authors: Bassing S. B. , Ausband D. E. , Mitchell M. S. , Schwartz M. K. , Nowak J. J. , Hale G. C. , Waits L. P.
Published: May 2020

The effects of harvest on cooperatively breeding species are often more complex than simply subtracting the number of animals that died from the group count. Changes in demographic rates, particularly dispersal, could offset some effects of harvest mortality in groups but this is rarely explored with cooperative breeders. We asked whether a cooperatively breeding species known for long‐distance dispersal could compensate for the effect of harvest mortality on density by adopting immigrants into the group. We used genetic samples to estimate the minimum density of gray wolves (Canis lupus) and proportion of immigrants in groups in the northern US Rocky Mountains after an annual harvest regime was initiated and in the Canadian Rocky Mountains where wolves were managed consistently under an annual harvest regime. We tested whether immigration (1) compensated, (2) partially compensated or (3) did not compensate numerically for harvest mortality in groups and hypothesized immigration would increase with increasing harvest intensity. Density of wolves in groups declined after harvest was initiated whereas immigration into groups was consistently low and did not change with harvest in the US study area. Immigration into groups was similarly low and density even lower in the Canadian study area compared to the US study area. Our results indicate immigration did not compensate for harvest mortality in groups in two separate populations of a cooperatively breeding carnivore. We hypothesize the social structure of wolf groups may limit the potentially compensatory response of immigration in some populations.
How should colorectal surgeons practice during the COVID‐19 epidemic? A retrospective single‐centre analysis based on real‐world data from China
Authors: He Changzheng , Li Yuxuan , Huang Xiaohui , Hu Shidong , Yan Yang , Liu Yichen , Zhao Pengyue , Lin Haiguan , Xu Xiaolei , Wang Yufeng , Teng Da , Du Xiaohui
Published: May 2020

Background

The coronavirus disease 2019 is currently of global concern. Cancer patients are advised to stay at home in case of potential infection, which may cause delays of routine diagnosis and necessary treatment. How colorectal surgeons should manage this during the epidemic remains a big challenge. The objective of the study is to evaluate the feasibility of routine colorectal surgery during coronavirus disease 2019 and to offer some Chinese recommendations to colorectal surgeons throughout the world.

Methods

A total of 166 patients receiving colorectal surgery from 20 December 2019 to 20 March 2020 at Department of General Surgery in Chinese General Hospital of People's Liberation Army were enrolled, and further divided into two groups based on before or after admission date of 20 January 2020. Clinicopathologic data such as hospital stay and economic data such as total costs were collected and analysed retrospectively.

Results

Longer hospital stay, higher proportion of non‐local patients and more hospitalization cost were found in the post‐20 January group (special‐time group) (P < 0.001; P < 0.05; P < 0.05, respectively). Apart from this, no difference existed with regard to baseline demographical data such as age, sex and height, as well as clinicopathological data such as previous history, surgery time, operation extent and TNM staging.

Conclusions

This real‐world study indicated that performing colorectal surgery during coronavirus disease 2019 epidemic might be safe and feasible based on comprehensive screening and investigation. We have summarized several recommendations here, hoping to help surgeons from related departments across the world.
6‐Hydroxydopamine lesion and levodopa treatment modify the effect of buspirone in the substantia nigra pars reticulata
Authors: Vegas‐Suárez Sergio , Pisanò Clarissa Anna , Requejo Catalina , Bengoetxea Harkaitz , Lafuente Jose Vicente , Morari Michele , Miguelez Cristina , Ugedo Luisa
Published: May 2020

Background and Purpose

l‐DOPA‐induced dyskinesia (LID) is considered a major complication in the treatment of Parkinson's disease (PD). Buspirone (5‐HT1A partial agonist) have shown promising results in the treatment of PD and LID, however no 5‐HT‐based treatment has been approved in PD. The present study was aimed to investigate how the substantia nigra pars reticulata (SNr) is affected by buspirone and whether it is a good target to study 5‐HT antidyskinetic treatments.

Experimental Approach

Buspirone was studied using in vivo single‐unit, electrocorticogram, local field potential recordings along with microdialysis and immunohistochemistry in naïve/sham, 6‐hydroxydopamine (6‐OHDA)‐lesioned or 6‐OHDA‐lesioned and l‐DOPA‐treated (6‐OHDA/l‐DOPA) rats.

Key Results

Local buspirone inhibited SNr neuron activity in all groups. However, systemic buspirone reduced burst activity in 6‐OHDA‐lesioned rats (with or without l‐DOPA treatment), whereas 8‐OH‐DPAT, a full 5‐HT1A agonist induced larger inhibitory effects in sham animals. Neither buspirone nor 8‐OH‐DPAT markedly modified the low‐frequency oscillatory activity in the SNr or synchronization within the SNr with the cortex. In addition, local perfusion of buspirone increased GABA and glutamate release in the SNr of naïve and 6‐OHDA‐lesioned rats but no effect in 6‐OHDA/l‐DOPA rats. In the 6‐OHDA/l‐DOPA group, increased 5‐HT transporter and decreased 5‐HT1A receptor expression was found.

Conclusions and Implications

The effects of buspirone in SNr are influenced by dopamine loss and l‐DOPA treatment. The present results suggest that the regulation of burst activity of the SNr induced by DA loss may be a good target to test new drugs for the treatment of PD and LID.
Targeting of cancer stem cells by differentiation therapy
Authors: Arima Yoshimi , Nobusue Hiroyuki , Saya Hideyuki
Published: May 2020

Chemoresistance is a hallmark of cancer stem cells (CSCs). To develop novel therapeutic strategies that target CSCs, we established osteosarcoma‐initiating (OSi) cells by introducing the c‐Myc gene into bone marrow stromal cells derived from Ink4a/Arf KO mice. These OSi cells include bipotent committed cells (similar to osteochondral progenitor cells) with a high tumorigenic activity as well as tripotent cells (similar to mesenchymal stem cells) of low tumorigenicity. We recently showed that the tripotent OSi cells are highly resistant to chemotherapeutic agents, and that depolymerization of the actin cytoskeleton in these cells induces their terminal adipocyte differentiation and suppresses their tumorigenicity. We here provide an overview of modulation of actin cytoskeleton dynamics associated with terminal adipocyte differentiation in osteosarcoma as well as discuss the prospects for new therapeutic strategies that target chemoresistant CSCs by inducing their differentiation.
The effect of multiple simulation parameters on MM/PBSA performance for binding affinity prediction of CB1 cannabinoid receptor agonists and antagonists
Authors: Loo Jason S. E. , Yong Amelia Y. Y. , Yong Yen Nee
Published: May 2020

Both the inactive‐ and active‐state CB1 receptor crystal structures have now been solved, allowing their application in various structure‐based drug design methods. One potential method utilizing these crystal structures is the Molecular Mechanics/Poisson–Boltzmann Surface Area (MM/PBSA) method of predicting relative binding free
Delayed coloanal anastomosis: an alternative option for restorative rectal cancer surgery after high‐dose pelvic radiotherapy for prostate cancer
Authors: François M.‐O. , Buscail E. , Vendrely V. , Célérier B. , Assénat V. , Moreau J.‐B. , Rullier E. , Denost Q.
Published: May 2020

Aim

Restorative total mesorectal excision (TME) for rectal cancer after high‐dose pelvic radiotherapy for prostate cancer has been reported to provide an unacceptable rate of pelvic sepsis. In a previous publication we proposed that delayed coloanal anastomosis (DCAA) should be performed in this situation. The present study aimed to assess the feasibility and outcomes of this strategy.

Method

Between 2000 and 2018, 1094 men were operated on for rectal cancer in our institution. All men with T2/T3 mid and low rectal cancer with preoperative radiotherapy and restorative TME were considered for this study (n = 416). Patients with external‐beam high‐dose radiotherapy (EBHRT) for prostate cancer (70–78 Gy) were identified and compared with patients with conventional long‐course chemoradiotherapy (CRT) followed by TME. We compared our already published historical cohort (2000–2012), including arm A (CRT + TME; n = 236) and arm B (EBHRT + TME; n = 12), with our early cohort (2013–2018), including arm C (CRT + TME; n = 158) and arm D (EBHRT + TME‐DCAA; n = 10). The end‐points were morbidity, pelvic sepsis, reoperation rate and quality of the specimen.

Results

Overall morbidity was not significantly different between groups. Pelvic sepsis decreased from 50% (arm B) to 10% (arm D) with the use of DCAA (P = 0.074), and was similar between arms A, C and D. Quality of the specimen was not significantly different between the four groups.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that TME with DCAA in patients with previous EBHRT is feasible, with the same postoperative pelvic sepsis rate as conventional CRT.
Molecular mechanisms of forgetting
Authors: Moreno Andrea
Published: May 2020

The field of learning and memory has largely focused their efforts on memory formation, deeming the act of forgetting as a necessary and unavoidable error of the brain's storage system. However, recent studies show that forgetting might be a purposeful mechanism with dedicated molecular pathways. This has opened new avenues for the study of memory processes and their manipulation. This review article focuses on the proposed molecular pathways that could underlie forgetting (postsynaptic glutamate receptors and their subunit composition, structural proteins, kinases, phosphatases, and neuromodulators), and reviews the latest contributions to this topic. The discussed molecular pathways are then related to synaptic depotentiation, which is a proposed mechanism underlying forgetting.
Variability of oceanographic and meteorological conditions in the northern Alboran Sea at seasonal, inter‐annual and long‐term time scales and their influence on sardine (Sardina pilchardus Walbaum 1792) landings
Authors: Vargas‐Yáñez Manuel , Giráldez Ana , Torres Pedro , González María , García‐Martínez Maria del Carmen , Moya Francina
Published: May 2020

Time series of European sardine (Sardina pilchardus) landings from 1962 and environmental variables from 1978 in the northern Alboran Sea are analysed. European sardine spawns in the northern Alboran Sea from mid‐autumn to late winter at a temperature range slightly higher than the one observed in the nearby Eastern North Atlantic and the North Western Mediterranean. Individuals hatched during autumn and winter are incorporated to the fishery during the following summer and autumn producing the maximum annual landings. These landings show both a decreasing long‐term trend and a strong inter‐annual variability. Although further research is needed, the warming trend of sea surface temperature and the decrease in upwelling intensity inferred from empirical orthogonal function (EOF) analyses could have some influence on the negative trends of sardine landings. The inter‐annual variability of sardine abundance seems to be related to the wind intensity at a local scale, the second principal component of the chlorophyll concentration and the sardine abundance during the preceding year. If the inter‐annual variability is considered, a linear model including these three variables with a one‐year time lag allows to explain 79% of the sardine landings variance. If the negative linear trend is also considered, the model explains 86% of the variance. These results indicate that the body condition of spawners, linked to the food availability during the preceding year, is the main factor controlling the recruitment success. The possibility of predicting sardine landings 1 year in advance could have important implications for fishery management.
MicroRNA‐708 modulates Hepatic Stellate Cells activation and enhances extracellular matrix accumulation via direct targeting TMEM88
Authors: Xu Tao , Pan Linxin , Li Liangyun , Hu Shuang , Zhou Hong , Yang Chenchen , Yang Junfa , Li Haodong , Liu Yuming , Meng Xiaoming , Li Jun
Published: May 2020

Transmembrane protein 88 (TMEM88) is a potential 2‐transmembrane‐type protein that interacts with the PDZ domain of Dishevelled‐1 (DVL‐1), a crucial component of Wnt signalling pathway through its C‐terminal Val‐Trp‐Val (VWV) motif in Xenopus embryo cells. Since the significant function of β‐catenin in liver fibrosis, it is urgent to study the TMEM88 mechanism in liver fibrosis. The current research was for evaluating the function of TMEM88 in the process of the liver fibrosis and clarifying the inherent mechanism. The study found that TMEM88 is decreased in human fibrotic liver tissues. Functionally, TMEM88 significantly reduced the expression levels of α‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA) and collagen type I (Col.I) and repressed extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation by restoring the balance between matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and TIMPs (tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases). TMEM88 inhibited HSCs proliferation and evaluated the apoptosis of activated LX‐2 cells by regulating Wnt3a, Wnt2b and β‐catenin of Wnt/β‐catenin signalling pathway. Moreover, we demonstrated that miR‐708 particularly targeted TMEM88 3′‐UTR regions and down‐regulated the expression level of TMEM88 in TGF‐β1‐stimulated LX‐2 cells. MiR‐708 promoted the generation of ECM and cell activation in activated LX‐2 cells. These results determined that miR‐708 could promote HSCs activation and enhance ECM accumulation via direct targeting TMEM88 by Wnt/β‐catenin signalling pathway. This will provide a potential target for future research in the process of liver fibrosis.
Influence of facial index, facial profile, lip size, and angulations of teeth on gingival characteristics of anterior teeth: A gender‐based evaluation
Authors: Kolte Rajashri A. , Kolte Abhay P. , Kharkar Vishakha V. , Bawankar Pranjali
Published: May 2020

Objective

A prime component in an esthetic and pleasing appearance of face is the proportionate presence of different compositions of the face. The present study aimed to evaluate the association between facial index, facial form, lip size, and angulation of anterior teeth with periodontal phenotype in males and females.

Materials and Methods

This cross‐sectional study included 100 consecutive periodontally healthy orthodontic patients equally divided based on gender in two groups. The facial parameters including the Facial index (FI), lip size, and Gingival thickness (GT) for maxillary and mandibular incisors were measured using a digital vernier calliper. Maxillary and mandibular incisors inclination was measured using cephalometric analysis.

Results

Significant differences were observed among both the genders in terms of FI and facial forms, upper lip size, and angulations of mandibular anterior teeth and the periodontal phenotype. The GT was found to be strongly associated with the FI and mandibular anterior teeth angulation.

Conclusion

The FI, and teeth inclinations are associated with the GT and shows sexual dimorphism. The evaluation of the periodontal phenotype and anthropometric parameters is essential during diagnosis and treatment planning for potential orthodontic patients and prediction of its influence on the periodontal tissues.

Clinical Significance

The gingival thickness varies with the facial index, facial form, teeth inclination, and lip size and thereby can be used to predict the pros and cons of orthodontic treatment and the need for prior periodontal therapy.
MOBILE MONEY, FINANCIAL INCLUSION AND DEVELOPMENT: A REVIEW WITH REFERENCE TO AFRICAN EXPERIENCE
Authors: Ahmad Ahmad Hassan , Green Christopher , Jiang Fei
Published: May 2020

Survey literature on mobile money and its contribution in promoting financial inclusion and development, with a focus on sub‐Saharan Africa. We use taxonomic, descriptive and analytical methods to evaluate the state of knowledge in the area. We analyse how mobile technology in general may contribute to economic development and financial inclusion in theory and practise. We explain the mechanics of mobile money using Kenya's M‐Pesa as a canonical example; and consider whether the literature has fully established the potential economic impact of mobile money especially its contribution to financial inclusion. We also consider market structure, pricing and regulatory implications of mobile money. We conclude by highlighting issues that require further investigation: the take‐up of mobile money; mobile money and financial inclusion; substitutability between mobile money and conventional finance; and regulatory structures for institutions providing mobile money services.
Mitochondrial diseases in adults
Authors: La Morgia C. , Maresca A. , Caporali L. , Valentino M. L. , Carelli V.
Published: May 2020

Mitochondrial medicine is a field that expanded exponentially in the last 30 years. Individually rare, mitochondrial diseases as a whole are probably the most frequent genetic disorder in adults. The complexity of their genotype–phenotype correlation, in terms of penetrance and clinical expressivity, natural history and diagnostic algorithm derives from the dual genetic determination. In fact, in addition to the about 1.500 genes encoding mitochondrial proteins that reside in the nuclear genome (nDNA), we have the 13 proteins encoded by the mitochondrial genome (mtDNA), for which 22 specific tRNAs and 2 rRNAs are also needed. Thus, besides Mendelian genetics, we need to consider all peculiarities of how mtDNA is inherited, maintained and expressed to fully understand the pathogenic mechanisms of these disorders. Yet, from the initial restriction to the narrow field of oxidative phosphorylation dysfunction, the landscape of mitochondrial functions impinging on cellular homeostasis, driving life and death, is impressively enlarged. Finally, from the clinical standpoint, starting from the neuromuscular field, where brain and skeletal muscle were the primary targets of mitochondrial dysfunction as energy‐dependent tissues, after three decades virtually any subspecialty of medicine is now involved. We will summarize the key clinical pictures and pathogenic mechanisms of mitochondrial diseases in adults.
What is alexithymia? Using factor analysis to establish its latent structure and relationship with fantasizing and emotional reactivity
Authors: Preece David A. , Becerra Rodrigo , Robinson Ken , Allan Alfred , Boyes Mark , Chen Wai , Hasking Penelope , Gross James J.
Published: May 2020

Objective

There is ongoing uncertainty about the structure and definition of alexithymia. Conceptually, alexithymia has traditionally been defined as a multidimensional trait with four components: difficulty identifying feelings, difficulty describing feelings, externally orientated thinking, and difficulty fantasizing. However, some authors suggest that difficulty fantasizing might not be a component, and others suggest low emotional reactivity is a fifth component. In this study, we sought to clarify this issue using factor analysis.

Method

In a sample of adults (N = 508), we administered a comprehensive battery of psychometric measures and analyzed their latent structure using exploratory factor analysis.

Results

Subscales assessing difficulty identifying feelings, difficulty describing feelings, and externally orientated thinking all loaded well together on the alexithymia factor. However, none of the subscales assessing aspects of difficulty fantasizing (i.e., daydreaming frequency, vividness, content, or use of daydreams to regulate emotions) loaded on the alexithymia factor. Similarly, no emotional reactivity subscales loaded on the alexithymia factor, and alexithymia was associated with higher (not lower) levels of emotional reactivity for negative emotions.

Conclusions

Difficulty fantasizing and low emotional reactivity are not components of the latent alexithymia construct. The traditional four‐component definition of alexithymia likely warrants refinement to a more parsimonious three‐component solution.
Prevalence, causes and risk factors of reduced VA and persistent reduced VA among preschool children in Eastern China
Authors: Zhang Xiaohan , Li Rui , Wang Yue , Zhao Xiaoyan , Hao Qingfeng , Tong Haohai , Chen Ping , Yu Yingqing , Liu Hu
Published: May 2020

Aims

To determine prevalence, causes, and risk factors of reduced uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), reduced presenting visual acuity (PVA), and persistent reduced visual acuity (VA) among Chinese preschool children.

Methods

The longitudinal, population‐based Nanjing Eye Study (NES) was carried out. Children underwent baseline comprehensive ocular examinations in 2016 (at 48–60 months old) and the follow‐up ocular examinations in 2017. A comprehensive questionnaire about children and their families was completed by their legal guardians. For children having reduced PVA at baseline, a follow‐up questionnaire about potential factors concerning VA correction was completed. Reduced VA was defined as VA worse than 0.30 logMAR (Snellen equivalent 6/12, 20/40), and persistent reduced VA was defined as reduced PVA in both 2016 and 2017.

Results

Among 1448 participants with both eye examinations and questionnaires completed, prevalence of reduced UCVA, reduced PVA, and persistent reduced VA at age of 60–72 months were 5.94%, 3.04%, and 1.59% respectively. Causes for reduced PVA were refractive error (79.5%), amblyopia (18.2%), and amblyopia combined nystagmus (2.3%). Among 23 children having persistent reduced VA, causes of reduced PVA remained unchanged in 13 children and 4 children developed amblyopia from refractive error. Younger age (OR = 1.09 for each month decrease, p = 0.01) and non‐breastfeeding (OR = 2.08, p = 0.03) were risk factors for reduced UCVA. Younger children with reduced UCVA were at higher risk of having reduced PVA (OR = 1.18 for each month decrease, p = 0.04). Children with siblings (OR = 5.95, p = 0.02) were more likely to have persistent reduced VA.

Conclusions

Future vision health promotion strategies among preschool children should focus on early vision‐screening and timely refractive correction. Apart from children of non‐breastfeeding mothers, attention should also be paid to children with siblings.
Biomechanical Study on the Stress Distribution of the Knee Joint After Tibial Fracture Malunion with Residual Varus–Valgus Deformity
Authors: Li Ming , Chang Hengrui , Wei Ning , Chang Wenli , Yan Ying , Jin Zeyue , Chen Wei
Published: May 2020

Objective

To investigate the effect of residual varus and valgus deformity on the stress distribution of the knee joint after tibial fracture malunion.

Methods

Fourteen adult cadaver specimens were selected to establish the models of tibial fractures, which were fixed subsequently at neutral position (anatomical reduction) and malunion positions (at 5°, 10°, and 15° valgus positions, and 5°, 10°, and 15° varus positions). The stress distribution on the medial and lateral plateau of the tibia was quantitatively measured using ultra‐low‐pressure sensitive film technology. The changes in the stress distribution of the knee joint after tibial fracture malunion and the relationship between the stress values and the residual varus or valgus deformity were analyzed.

Results

Under 400 N vertical load, the stress values on the medial and lateral plateau of the tibia at the neutral position were 1.137 ± 0.139 MPa and 1.041 ± 0.117 MPa, respectively. When compared with the stress values measured at the neutral position, the stress on the medial plateau of the tibia was significantly higher at varus deformities and lower at valgus deformities, and the stress on the lateral plateau was significantly higher at valgus deformities and lower at varus deformities (all P < 0.05). The stress values on the medial plateau of the tibia were significantly higher than the corresponding data on the lateral plateau at neutral and 5°, 10°, and 15° varus deformities, respectively (all P < 0.05), and significantly lower than the corresponding data on the lateral plateau at 5°, 10°, and 15° valgus deformities, respectively (all P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Residual varus and valgus deformity after tibial fracture malunion can lead to obvious changes of the stress distribution of the knee joint. Therefore, tibial fractures should be reduced anatomically and fixed rigidly to avoid residual varus–valgus deformity and malalignment of lower limbs.
Synergistic Effects of Kartogenin and Transforming Growth Factor‐β3 on Chondrogenesis of Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells In Vitro
Authors: Zhao Yanhong , Teng Binhong , Sun Xun , Dong Yunsheng , Wang Shufang , Hu Yongcheng , Wang Zheng , Ma Xinlong , Yang Qiang
Published: May 2020

Objective

To explore the effect of kartogenin (KGN) on proliferation and chondrogenic differentiation of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUCMSC) in vitro, and the synergistic effects of KGN and transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β3 on hUCMSC.

Methods

Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells were isolated and cultured. Then the differentiation properties were identified by flow cytometry analysis. HUCMSC were divided into four groups: control group, KGN group, TGF‐β3 group, and TK group (with TGF‐β3 and KGN added into the medium simultaneously). Cells in all groups were induced for 21 days using the suspension ball culture method. Hematoxylin and eosin, immunofluorescence, and Alcian blue staining were used to analyze chondrogenic differentiation. Real‐time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction was performed to investigate genes associated with chondrogenic differentiation.

Result

Hematoxylin and eosin staining showed that cells in the TGF‐β3 group and the TK group had formed cartilage‐like tissue after 21 days of culture. The results of immunofluorescence and Alcian blue staining showed that compared with the control group, cells in the KGN and TGF‐β3 groups demonstrated increased secretion of aggrecan after 21 days of culture. In addition, cells in the group combining KGN with TGF‐β3 (5.587 ± 0.27, P < 0.01) had more collagen II secretion than cells in the TGF‐β3 alone group (2.86 ± 0.141, P < 0.01) or the KGN group (1.203 ± 0.215, P < 0.01). The expression of aggrecan (2.468 ± 0.097, P < 0.05) and SRY‐Box 9 (4.08 ± 0.13, P < 0.05) in cells in the group combining KGN with TGF‐β3 was significantly higher than those in the TGF‐β3 group (2.216 ± 0.09, 3.02 ± 0.132, P < 0.05).’

Conclusion

The combination of KGN and TGF‐β3 had synergistic effects and induced hUCMSC chondrogenesis. This could represent a new approach for clinical application and studies on cartilage repair and regeneration.
Comparing clinical acne vulgaris severity to adolescent and parent perceptions of acne severity and impact on quality of life
Authors: Sadowsky Lauren M. , Yang Connie Y. , Sorrell Jennifer , Bayers Stephanie , O'Neill Lauren B. , Chamlin Sarah L. , Schlosser Bethanee J.
Published: May 2020

Background/Objectives

Little research has compared clinician acne severity assessment with either adolescent‐ or parent‐rated scales of acne severity or impact on quality of life (QOL). We sought to assess how adolescents and their parents perceive the severity and impact of acne on the adolescent's QOL and correlate this with clinical severity.

Methods

Each adolescent and a parent completed a validated QOL survey regarding the adolescent's acne and rated the adolescent's acne severity and QOL impact using a Likert scale. Clinicians assessed the adolescent's acne using a standardized acne severity scale. Statistical analysis compared adolescent scores with respective parent scores or with clinician assessment using a paired t test or Spearman rank‐order correlation test.

Results

The Likert impact score more accurately reflected acne impact on QOL for adolescents than for parents when considering the validated QOL survey as the gold standard (r2 = .56 vs r2 = .36). Likert scores for adolescents and parents were weakly correlated for acne severity but not for acne QOL impact (r2 = .36 vs r2 = .18). Correlations of acne severity scores between clinician and either adolescent or parent were weak.

Conclusions

Parents and adolescents are in relative agreement regarding acne severity and QOL impact. However, parent and adolescent perceptions are disparate from clinician acne assessment. It is important that physicians identify and consider adolescent and parent perceptions in addition to clinical assessment to better inform the approach to acne management.