bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Controlled neighbor exchanges drive glassy behavior, intermittency and cell streaming in epithelial tissues
Authors: Das Amit , Sastry Srikanth , Bi Dapeng
Published: February 2020

Cell neighbor exchanges are integral to tissue rearrangements in biology, including development and repair. Often these processes occur via topological T1 transitions analogous to those observed in foams, grains and colloids. However, in contrast to in non-living materials the T1 transitions in biological tissues are rate-limited and cannot occur instantaneously due to the finite time required to remodel complex structures at cell-cell junctions. Here we study how this rate-limiting process affects the mechanics and collective behavior of cells in a tissue by introducing this important biological constraint in a theoretical vertex-based model as an intrinsic single-cell property. We report in the absence of this time constraint, the tissue undergoes a motility-driven glass transition characterized by a sharp increase in the intermittency of cell-cell rearrangements. Remarkably, this glass transition disappears as T1 transitions are temporally limited. As a unique consequence of limited rearrangements, we also find that the tissue develops spaitally correlated streams of fast and slow cells, in which the fast cells organize into stream-like patterns with leader-follower interactions, and maintain optimally stable cell-cell contacts. The predictions of this work is compared with existing in-vivo experiments in Drosophila pupal development.
Loops and the activity of loop extrusion factors constrain chromatin dynamics
Authors: Bailey Mary Lou P. , Surovtsev Ivan , Williams Jessica F. , Yan Hao , Yuan Tianyu , Li Kevin , Duseau Katherine , Mochrie Simon G. J. , King Megan C.
Published: March 2020

The chromosomes - DNA polymers and their binding proteins - are compacted into a spatially organized, yet dynamic, three-dimensional structure. Recent genome-wide chromatin conformation capture experiments reveal a hierarchical organization of the DNA structure that is imposed, at least in part, by looping interactions arising from the activity of loop extrusion factors. The dynamics of chromatin reflects the response of the polymer to a combination of thermal fluctuations and active processes. However, how chromosome structure and enzymes acting on chromatin together define its dynamics remains poorly understood. To gain insight into the structure-dynamics relationship of chromatin, we combine high-precision microscopy in livingSchizosaccharomyces pombecells with systematic genetic perturbations and Rouse- model polymer simulations. We first investigated how the activity of two loop extrusion factors, the cohesin and condensin complexes, influences chromatin dynamics. We observed that deactivating cohesin, or to a lesser extent condensin, increased chromatin mobility, suggesting that loop extrusion constrains rather than agitates chromatin motion. Our corresponding simulations reveal that the introduction of loops is sufficient to explain the constraining activity of loop extrusion factors, highlighting that the conformation adopted by the polymer plays a key role in defining its dynamics. Moreover, we find that the number loops or residence times of loop extrusion factors influences the dynamic behavior of the chromatin polymer. Last, we observe that the activity of the INO80 chromatin remodeler, but not the SWI/SNF or RSC complexes, is critical for ATP-dependent chromatin mobility in fission yeast. Taken together we suggest that thermal and INO80-dependent activities exert forces that drive chromatin fluctuations, which are constrained by the organization of the chromosome into loops.
The potentiation of menadione on imatinib by downregulation of ABCB1 expression
Authors: Xiao Fei‐Yan , Zhou Fang‐Jiao , Yuan Fang , Kuang Wei , Zhou Gan , Zhou Hong‐Hao , Cao Shan
Published: February 2020

Imatinib was the first BCR‐ABL inhibitor used in clinical practice to treat chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) and significantly improve the life expectancy of CML patients in the chronic phase. However, a portion of CML patients are resistant to imatinib. This study aimed to determine whether menadione (Vitamin K3) can improve imatinib efficacy in CML and to thoroughly explore the combination regimen mechanism between imatinib and menadione. Menadione improved imatinib efficacy in K562 cells by downregulating ABCB1 expression and increased the intracellular concentration of imatinib, which confirmed that this combination regimen is more effective than imatinib monotherapy. The results demonstrate that menadione and imatinib combination therapy may be a promising approach to refractory CML.
Chicken Club: schools and their relationship with families
Authors: Brewer Rebecca
Published: February 2020

Over time, schools have developed systems that include the families of children. Families often sign a home school agreement and attend parent forums or more formal meetings designed to plan provision for children with special educational needs. These endeavours, however, are arguably inadequate when the full influence of the family is properly acknowledged. Research makes clear that the main influencer on the child’s self‐efficacy and therefore learning behaviours, is the family. This article reports findings from literature and a case study looking at making the most of the partnership between families and schools in order to meet the learning needs of individual children. It also addresses many barriers that families face in approaching schools and three ways schools in Cornwall, a rural county in South West England, are 'opening out’ their practice. The case study provides evidence of the progress children made in learning as a response to the new school and family partnership.
Interprofessional partnerships involving school counsellors for children with special needs: a broad based systematic review using the PRISMA framework
Authors: Johnson Kaprea F. , Belcher T’Airra W. , Zimmerman Betsy , Franklin Jeanel
Published: February 2020

Interprofessional educational partnerships can include a diverse group of helping professionals involved in consultation at both the school and community levels. Central to these partnerships should be school counsellors; this systematic review sought to understand the dynamics of these partnerships using the PRISMA framework. The review found that the role school counsellors can play on these teams varies from leader to convener but the specificity in terms of outcomes was missing. Noteworthy is the number of conceptual pieces, which is interpreted as researchers developing models that need additional testing. Future research should put the conceptual models available to directional testing; authors should include more information about the team’s development and each person’s role; and more attention should be paid to the outcomes of these team‐based approaches.
Closing the gap: supporting literacy through a computer‐assisted‐reading‐intervention
Authors: Vincent Kerry
Published: February 2020

Schools in England are expected to ‘close the gap’ for a range of vulnerable pupils who are achieving below the levels seen amongst their same‐aged peers. They are also highly accountable for additional funding that is provided to support this goal. The project reported here involved collating and analysing a range of data in order to evaluate the impact of a widely used computer‐assisted‐reading‐intervention (CARI). Sixteen primary school pupils, all of whom were identified by their school as underachieving in literacy, used the CARI daily over a five‐week period. The post‐intervention data showed some clear gains in reading and spelling skills for all bar one of the children. The findings are discussed in relation to the wider literatures on CARIs. The research concludes that the CARI under investigation offers a useful and cost‐effective adjunct to whole‐class and group reading instruction and may be particularly beneficial for supporting the learning of pupils who are struggling to consolidate the knowledge and skills covered in their regular classroom reading instruction.
Pupil participation in planning provision for special educational needs: teacher perspectives
Authors: Merrick Rosalind
Published: February 2020

There are legal, moral and practical reasons to involve pupils in planning provision for their special educational needs. We do not yet know how principles are implemented in practice. This study explored the views and experiences of 64 teachers with an interest in special educational needs through an online survey. Participants reported greater pupil involvement in everyday matters, less in conceptual aspects of planning. Effective strategies were based on good teacher‐pupil relationships and school‐wide systems for sharing pupil views. Participants gave examples of the impact of pupil participation on teacher insight, pupil motivation and material provision. 84 per cent indicated that they would like pupils to be more involved in decisions about their provision than they currently are. Barriers included the nature of children’s difficulties and practitioner attitudes. Listening to children is intrinsic to good teaching, yet pupils also benefit from a more formal role in provision planning.
Transcriptional identification of differentially expressed genes associated with division of labor in Apis cerana cerana
Authors: Chen Yi‐Jie , Li Ying‐Jiao , Wu Shuang , Yang Wen‐Chao , Miao Jing , Gu Shao‐Hua , Li Jiang‐Hong , Miao Xiao‐Qing , Li Xianchun
Published: February 2020

Workers of Apis cerana cerana undergo an in‐hive nursing to outdoor foraging transition, but the genes underlying this age‐related transition remain largely unknown. Here, we sequenced the head transcriptomes of its 7‐day‐old normal nurses, 18‐ and 22‐day‐old normal foragers, 7‐day‐old precocious foragers and 22‐day‐old over‐aged nurses to unravel the genes associated with this transition. Mapping of the sequence reads to Apis mellifera genome showed that the three types of foragers had a greater percentage of reads from annotated exons and intergenic regions, whereas the two types of nurses had a greater percentage of reads from introns. Pair‐ and group‐wise comparisons of the five transcriptomes revealed 59 uniquely expressed genes (18 in nurses and 41 in foragers) and 14 nurse‐ and 15 forager‐upregulated genes. The uniquely expressed genes are usually low‐abundance long noncoding RNAs, transcription factors, transcription coactivators, RNA‐binding proteins, kinases or phosphatases that are involved in signaling and/or regulation, whereas the nurse‐ or forager‐upregulated genes are often high‐abundance downstream genes that directly perform the tasks of nurses or foragers. Taken together, these results suggest that the nurse‐forager transition is coordinated by a social signal‐triggered epigenetic shift from introns to exons/intergenic regions and the resulting transcriptional shift between the nurse‐ and forager‐associated genes.
Alcohol use disorders and the brain
Authors: Rao Rahul , Topiwala Anya
Published: February 2020

A diagnosis of alcohol use disorder is associated with a higher risk of dementia, but a dose–response relationship between alcohol intake consumption and cognitive impairment remains unclear. Alcohol is associated with a range of effects on the central nervous system at different doses and acts on a number of receptors. Acute disorders include Wernicke's encephalopathy (WE), traumatic brain injury, blackouts, seizures, stroke and hepatic encephalopathy. The most common manifestations of chronic alcohol consumption are Korsakoff's syndrome (KS) and alcohol‐related dementia (ARD). There is limited evidence for benefit from memantine in the treatment of ARD, but stronger evidence for the use of high‐dose parenteral thiamine in the progression of neuropsychiatric symptoms for WE.

Accumulating evidence exists for pharmacological treatment in the prevention of hepatic encephalopathy. Rehabilitation of people with ARD may take several years, and requires an approach that addresses physical and psychosocial factors.
Distinct ecosystem types respond differentially to grazing exclosure
Authors: Gallego Federico , Paruelo José M. , Baeza Santiago , Altesor Alice
Published: February 2020

Here, we evaluate the ecosystem functioning and the ecosystems services supply of different vegetation types (grasslands, shrublands and woodlands) under contrasting management regimes by comparing a protected area with the surrounding landscape, which has been subjected to human disturbance in the Eastern Hills of Uruguay. We propose, based on functional attributes and vegetation physiognomy, a State and Transition Model for the dynamics of the grassland–woodland mosaic. We used remote sensing techniques to: (i) develop a land‐cover map of the study area based on supervised Landsat imagery classification, and (ii) compare attributes of the ecosystem functioning (productivity and seasonality) and service supply derived from the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) images provided by the moderate resolution imaging spectroradiometer (MODIS) sensor. The land‐cover map showed that grasslands and shrublands were the most extensive land covers in the study area. These vegetation types presented higher productivity, seasonality and ecosystem service supply, outside the protected area than inside it. On the other hand, woodlands showed higher productivity, ecosystem service supply and lower seasonality inside the protected area than outside of it. Two axes represented the grassland–woodland mosaic dynamic: (i) the mean annual and (ii) the intra‐annual coefficient of variation of the NDVI. Our results highlight that conservation of grasslands, shrublands and woodlands require different management strategies based on particular disturbance regimes like moderate grazing and controlled burns. Moderate disturbances may help to preserve ecosystem services provisioning in grasslands and shrublands. On the contrary, woodland conservation requires a more rigorous regime of protection against disturbances.
Concrete Stories in Southern Europe: Financialisation and Inequality in the Construction Chain
Authors: Vetta Theodora , Palomera Jaime
Published: February 2020

This article seeks to tackle less researched areas of financialisation, namely class relations within the sphere of production. We ethnographically explore the trajectories of two small construction family‐firms in Greece and Spain, traditionally perceived as the backbone of the Mediterranean economy but also lying at the very heart of the last financial bubble. Looking at the boom and bust of such ventures, we argue that the penetration of credit in this particular production structure, built through subcontracting chains, has reproduced and intensified deep inequalities: privileged position regarding financing enabled profit to be channelled upwards whereas risk and exploitation was transferred downwards. At the same time, rent‐making or rent‐extraction practices have become pervasive not only in the circulation and consumption spheres but also inside production.
Enlarged cardiophrenic lymph nodes predict disease involvement of the upper abdomen and the outcome of primary surgical debulking in advanced ovarian cancer
Authors: Luger Anna K. , Steinkohl Fabian , Aigner Friedrich , Jaschke Werner , Marth Christian , Zeimet Alain G. , Reimer Daniel
Published: February 2020

Introduction

The outcome of ovarian cancer patients is highly dependent on the success of primary debulking surgery in terms of postoperative residual disease. This study critically evaluates the clinical impact of preoperative radiologic assessment of the cardiophrenic lymph node (CPLN) status in advanced ovarian cancer.

Material and methods

Baseline CT scans of 178 stage III and IV ovarian cancer patients were retrospectively reviewed by two independent radiologists. CPLN enlargement defined at a short‐axis ≥5 mm was evaluated for its prognostic value and predictive power of upper abdominal tumor involvement and the chance of complete intra‐abdominal tumor resection at primary debulking surgery. Only patients without surgically removed CPLN were eligible for this study.

Results

Enlarged CPLNs were detected in 50% of patients and correlated with radiologically suspicious (P = .028) and histologically confirmed (P = .001) paraaortic lymph node metastases. CPLNs ≥ 5 mm were associated with high CA‐125 levels at baseline and revealed independent prognostic relevance for progression‐free survival (hazard ratio [HR] 2.14, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.33‐3.42) and overall survival (HR 2.18, 95% CI 1.16‐4.08). Noteworthy, patients with enlarged CPLNs nonetheless benefit from complete intra‐abdominal tumor debulking in terms of an improvement in progression‐free survival (HR 0.60, 95% CI 0.38‐0.94) and overall survival (HR 0.59, 95% CI 0.35‐0.82). Enlarged CPLNs correctly predicted carcinomatosis of the upper abdomen in 94.6%. A predictive score of complete tumor debulking, termed CD‐score, which integrates, beside a CPLN short axis <5 mm, an ascites volume <500 mL, and CA‐125 levels <500 U/mL at baseline, correctly predicted complete intra‐abdominal debulking in 100% of patients.

Conclusions

CPLNs ≥5 mm predict upper abdominal tumor involvement. The application of the CD‐score predicted complete macroscopic tumor resection at primary surgery in all of the patients. Although, CPLN pathology suggests extra‐abdominal disease, we consistently demonstrated that patients nonetheless benefit from complete intra‐abdominal tumor resection.
Surgical outcomes and learning curve of totally intracorporeal ileal conduit urinary diversion following laparoscopic radical cystectomy at a single institution
Authors: Kubota Masashi , Kokubun Hidetoshi , Yamaguchi Ritsuki , Murata Shiori , Makita Noriyuki , Suzuki Issei , Suzuki Ryosuke , Abe Yohei , Tohi Yoichiro , Tsutsumi Naofumi , Sugino Yoshio , Inoue Koji , Kawakita Mutsushi
Published: February 2020

Introduction

Constant evaluation of the outcomes of laparoscopic intracorporeal urinary diversion is not yet established. This study aimed to describe surgical outcomes and learning curve of intracorporeal ileal conduit (ICIC) following laparoscopic radical cystectomy (LRC) at a single institution.

Methods

From June 2012 to February 2018, 38 patients with bladder cancer underwent LRC with ileal conduit at our institution. Surgical outcomes were compared between ICIC (n = 30) and extracorporeal ileal conduit (ECIC) (n = 8). The learning curve during ICIC with regard to the operative time and complication rate was compared.

Results

No significant differences in patient characteristics between the ICIC and ECIC groups were found. Comparison of outcomes between the ICIC and ECIC groups were as follows: median total operative time, 688 vs 713 minutes; urinary diversion time, 213 vs 192 minutes; and estimated blood loss, 450 vs 420 mL, respectively. The median time to walking and oral intake were similar in both groups. Rates of high‐grade complications associated with urinary diversion (Clavien‐Dindo grade ≥ III) were 3% in ICIC and 25% in ECIC. Although 25% of ECIC patients developed wound dehiscence (Clavien‐Dindo grade IIIb), no patient in the ICIC group had postoperative wound infection. For the learning curve of ICIC (n = 30), urinary diversion time decreased significantly (27 minutes decrease per 10 cases, P = .02). Clavien‐Dindo grade ≥ II complication did not occur after 20 cases.

Conclusions

LRC with ICIC could be performed safely with low incidence of severe wound infection compared with ECIC. The incidence and severity of complications also decreased with time.
Antitumor activity of a novel oral signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 inhibitor YHO‐1701
Authors: Nishisaka Fukiko , Taniguchi Keisuke , Tsugane Momomi , Hirata Genya , Takagi Akimitsu , Asakawa Naoyuki , Kurita Akinobu , Takahashi Hiroyuki , Ogo Naohisa , Shishido Yoshiyuki , Asai Akira
Published: February 2020

The signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathway is a key mediator of cancer cell proliferation, survival and invasion. Aberrant STAT3 has been demonstrated in various malignant cancers. YHO‐1701 is a novel quinolinecarboxamide derivative generated from STX‐0119. Here, we examined the effect of YHO‐1701 on STAT3 and evaluated antitumor activity of YHO‐1701 as a single agent and in combination. YHO‐1701 inhibited STAT3‐SH2 binding to phospho‐Tyr peptide selectively and more potently than STX‐0119 in biochemical assays. Molecular docking studies with STAT3 suggested more stable interaction of YHO‐1701 with the SH2 domain. YHO‐1701 exhibited approximately 10‐fold stronger activity than STX‐0119 in abrogating the STAT3 signaling pathway of human oral cancer cell line SAS. YHO‐1701 also blocked multi‐step events by inhibiting STAT3 dimerization and suppressed STAT3 promoter activity. As expected, YHO‐1701 exerted strong antiproliferative activity against human cancer cell lines addicted to STAT3 signaling. Orally administered YHO‐1701 showed statistically significant antitumor effects with long exposure to high levels of YHO‐1701 at tumor sites in SAS xenograft models. Moreover, combination regimen with sorafenib led to significantly stronger antitumor activity. In addition, the suppression level of survivin (a downstream target) was superior for the combination as compared with monotherapy groups within tumor tissues. Thus, YHO‐1701 had a favorable specificity for STAT3 and pharmacokinetics after oral treatment; it also contributed to the enhanced antitumor activity of sorafenib. The evidence presented here provides justification using for this approach in future clinical settings.
DNA methylation changes in cystic fibrosis: Cause or consequence?
Authors: Scott Madeleine , De Sario Albertina
Published: February 2020

Twin and sibling studies have shown that lung disease severity is variable among cystic fibrosis (CF) patients and affected to the same extent by genetic and nonheritable factors. Genetic factors have been thoroughly assessed, whereas the molecular mechanisms whereby nonheritable factors contribute to the phenotypic variability of CF patients are still unknown. Epigenetic modifications may represent the missing link between nonheritable factors and phenotypic variation in CF. Herein, we review recent studies showing that DNA methylation is altered in CF and we address three possible factors responsible for these variations: (i) overproduction of reactive oxygen species, (ii) depletion of DNA methylation cofactors and (iii) susceptibility to acute and chronic bacterial infections. Also, we hypothesize that the unique DNA methylation profile of each patient can modulate the phenotype and discuss the interest of implementing integrated genomic, epigenomic and transcriptomic studies to further understand the clinical diversity of CF patients (Graphical Abstract).
Exploring the Effects of Aggregation Choices on Untrained Visualization Users' Generalizations From Data
Authors: Nguyen F. , Qiao X. , Heer J. , Hullman J.
Published: February 2020

Visualization system designers must decide whether and how to aggregate data by default. Aggregating distributional information in a single summary mark like a mean or sum simplifies interpretation, but may lead untrained users to overlook distributional features. We ask, How are the conclusions drawn by untrained visualization users affected by aggregation strategy? We present two controlled experiments comparing generalizations of a population that untrained users made from visualizations that summarized either a 1000 record or 50 record sample with either single mean summary mark, a disaggregated view with one mark per observation or a view overlaying a mean summary mark atop a disaggregated view. While we observe no reliable effect of aggregation strategy on generalization accuracy at either sample size, users of purely disaggregated views were slightly less confident in their generalizations on average than users whose views show a single mean summary mark, and less likely to engage in dichotomous thinking about effects as either present or absent. Comparing results from 1000 record to 50 record data set, we see a considerably larger decrease in the number of generalizations produced and reported confidence in generalizations among viewers who saw disaggregated data relative to those who saw only mean summary marks.
Curve Skeleton Extraction From 3D Point Clouds Through Hybrid Feature Point Shifting and Clustering
Authors: Hu Hailong , Li Zhong , Jin Xiaogang , Deng Zhigang , Chen Minhong , Shen Yi
Published: February 2020

Curve skeleton is an important shape descriptor with many potential applications in computer graphics, visualization and machine intelligence. We present a curve skeleton expression based on the set of the cross‐section centroids from a point cloud model and propose a corresponding extraction approach. We first provide the substitution of a distance field for a 3D point cloud model, and then combine it with curvatures to capture hybrid feature points. By introducing relevant facets and points, we shift these hybrid feature points along the skeleton‐guided normal directions to approach local centroids, simplify them through a tensor‐based spectral clustering and finally connect them to form a primary connected curve skeleton. Furthermore, we refine the primary skeleton through pruning, trimming and smoothing. We compared our results with several state‐of‐the‐art algorithms including the rotational symmetry axis (ROSA) and L1‐medial methods for incomplete point cloud data to evaluate the effectiveness and accuracy of our method.
Can patch testing with methylchloroisothiazolinone/methylisothiazolinone be optimized using a new diagnostic mix? – A multicenter study from the Swedish Contact Dermatitis Research Group
Authors: Engfeldt Malin , Isaksson Marléne , Bråred‐Christensson Johanna , Hagvall Lina , Matura Mihály , Ryberg Kristina , Stenberg Berndt , Svedman Cecilia , Bruze Magnus
Published: February 2020

Background

Methylchloroisothiazolinone/methylisothiazolinone (MCI/MI) and methylisothiazolinone (MI) are tested to detect contact allergy to these isothiazolinones.

Objectives

To study if an aqueous patch test preparation with MCI and MI in a mix of 0.015% and 0.2%, respectively, detects more contact allergies than the commonly used preparations of MCI/MI in 0.02% aq. and MI in 0.2% aq.

Methods

A total of 1555 patients with dermatitis in five Swedish dermatology departments were tested consecutively with MCI/MI 0.215% aq., MCI/MI 0.02% aq., and MI 0.2% aq.

Results

The share of contact allergy to MCI/MI 0.215% aq., MCI/MI 0.02% aq., and MI 0.2% aq. varied in the test centers between 7.9% and 25.9%, 3.2% and 10.3%, and 5.8% and 12.3%, respectively. MCI/MI 0.215% aq. detected significantly more patch‐test positive individuals than both MCI/MI 0.02% aq. (P < .001) and MI 0.2% aq. (P < .001), as well as either one of MCI/MI and MI (P < .001). In the patients only reacting to MCI/MI 0.215% aq., 57.7% were recorded as having a dermatitis that was explained or aggravated by exposure to either MCI/MI or MI.

Conclusion

The results speak in favor of replacing the preparations MCI/MI 0.02% aq. and MI 0.2% aq. with MCI/MI 0.215% aq. as the screening substance in the Swedish baseline series, which has been implemented in 2020.
The relationship between obstructive sleep apnea syndrome and obesity: A new perspective on the pathogenesis in terms of organ crosstalk
Authors: Kuvat Nuray , Tanriverdi Hakan , Armutcu Ferah
Published: February 2020

Introduction

Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is a common disorder that has a major impact on public health. The connection between OSAS and obesity is very complex and likely represents an interaction between biological and lifestyle factors. Oxidative stress, inflammation and metabolic dysregulation are both actors involved in the pathogenesis of OSAS and obesity. Also, the current evidence suggests that gut microbiota plays a significant role in the emergence and progression of some metabolic disorders. When the relationship between OSAS and obesity is evaluated extensively, it is understood that they show mutual causality with each other, and that metabolic challenges such as impaired microbiota affect this bidirectional organ interaction, and by ensuing organ injury.

Objectives

The aim of this study is to investigate the association between OSAS and obesity, and the effect of “organ crosstalk” on the pathogenesis of the relationship and to contribute to the diagnosis and treatment options in the light of current data.

Data Source

We performed an electronic database search including PubMed, EMBASE and Web of Science. We used the following search terms: OSAS, obesity, inflammation, metabolic dysregulation and gut microbiota.

Conclusion

Obesity and OSAS adversely affect many organs and systems. Besides the factors affecting the diagnosis of the OSAS‐obesity relationship, mutual organ interactions among the respiratory system, adipose tissue and intestines should not be ignored for prevention and treatment of OSAS and obesity. Comprehensive clinical trials addressing the efficacy and efficiency of current or potential treatments on therapeutic applications in the OSAS‐obesity relationship are needed.
Beyond Happy‐or‐Not: Using Emoji to Capture Visitors’ Emotional Experience
Authors: De Angeli Daniela , Kelly Ryan M. , O’Neill Eamonn
Published: February 2020

Museums are emotionally driven sites. People visit museums to feel and their emotions influence how the museum and its artefacts are perceived. Thus, evaluating emotional states are increasingly important for museums. However, evaluating visitors’ experiences is increasingly challenging, especially with the introduction of new and emerging technology. Moreover, people’s behaviour is not strictly objective and rational. While emotional states are subjective and hard to verbalize or observe, emoji are often used to express emotions on mobile and smartphone messaging applications. In this paper we investigate whether emoji can capture emotional states elicited by museum experiences, supporting traditional methods such as interviews. While other non‐verbal self‐report methods have been used to evaluate emotions, this is the first tool of this kind designed specifically to measure emotions elicited by museum experiences. We designed a set of 9 emoji illustrating a variety of emotional states beyond happy‐or‐not. Then, we confirmed that participants understood our emoji’s intended concept using a word association task. Finally, we used our 9 emoji to evaluate an interactive museum experience. We also run interviews and we investigated the correspondence between participants’ comments and the emoji they chose. Through this study we gained a better understanding of how the emoji can be deployed to capture a range of visitors’ emotional experiences. Our findings suggest that emoji can capture which emotional states participants felt beyond the happy‐or‐not dichotomy, but that they should be complemented with traditional methods such as interviews to understand why specific emotions were felt.
Venous flow patterns after percutaneous atrial septal defect closure: Does the mechanical device decrease right atrial compliance?
Authors: Poonia Amitabh , Giridhara Priya , Sivasubramonian Sivasankaran , Krishnamoorthy Kavassery M. , Abhilash Sreevilasam P. , Ajitkumar Valaparambil K.
Published: February 2020

Introduction

Systemic venous flow patterns become abnormal and restrictive after surgical closure of ostium secundum atrial septal defect (ASD) but rarely studied after percutaneous device closure.

Methods

From January 2017 to January 2018, systemic venous Doppler flow patterns were documented prospectively in 50 subjects who underwent percutaneous closure of ASD, prior to, after procedure, and at 6‐month follow‐up and correlated with defect size and device size.

Results

In hepatic veins and superior venacava post device‐closure closure, the velocity time integral (VTI) of forward flow in both systole (S) and diastole (D) increased. Overall S was higher than D, and D/S ratio was <1. The D/S ratio increased after device closure significantly reflecting that the improvement in atrial filling increase in diastolic flow more than the increase in systolic flow. Increase in flow velocities was more prominent at 6 months with further increase in D/S VTI ratios. When correlated with the defect size, in those with defect size less than 15 mm/sq.m (mean device size 13.05 ± 3.21 mm), the changes in S‐ or D‐wave, D/S ratio were less prominent and statistically not significant, while in subjects with defect size ≥ 15 mm/sq.m (mean device size 23.02 (±4.77 mm), these changes were greater and statistical significant.

Conclusion

Residual filling defects with restriction of systolic venous flow were observed in subjects after device closure, correlating with larger device sizes, implying the compliance abnormality conferred by them which progresses at 6 months. Subjects with persistent abnormalities would need careful follow up for incomplete remodeling and increase in atrial size related arrhythmias.
Speckle tracking echocardiography in the early detection and prediction of anthracycline cardiotoxicity in diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma treated with (R)‐CHOP regimen
Authors: Wang Baozhen , Yu Yang , Zhang Yue , Hao Xiaoyi , Zhao Hong , Yang Shan , Sun Qianqian , Wang Yue
Published: February 2020

Background

Despite speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) has emerged as a sensitive technique for identifying myocardial dysfunction, there are little data available on the appropriate timing to perform STE in the serial assessment after anthracycline administration. Moreover, further uncertainty is increased in the context of STE application in diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) research, as most recommendations are inferred by studies conducted primarily in breast cancer.

Objective

This study aimed to determine whether early measurement of strain parameters derived by STE could predict the development of cardiotoxicity.

Methods

Sixty‐five patients were included in the final analysis. The patients were evaluated at baseline, after the third cycle and sixth‐eighth cycle, and during follow‐up. Global longitudinal strain (GLS) was analyzed using STE, and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was calculated by real time 3D echocardiography (RT3DE).

Results

There was a significant decrease in GLS after the third cycle of chemotherapy and remained decreased during subsequent follow‐up, whereas LVEF decreased only at follow‐up. A percentage reduction in GLS of 13.8% between baseline and the third cycle of chemotherapy was the best predictor of further LVEF reduction.

Conclusion

Earlier monitoring timing and more accurate assessment methods might be helpful in the prevention of irreversible heart failure.
Unique mechanism of mitral valve prolapse in atrial septal defect: Three‐dimensional insights into mitral complex geometry using real‐time transesophageal echocardiography
Authors: Furugen Makoto , Watanabe Nozomi , Nishino Shun , Kimura Toshiyuki , Ashikaga Keiichi , Kuriyama Nehiro , Shibata Yoshisato
Published: February 2020

Background

Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) is often identified in patients with atrial septal defect (ASD), which occasionally require surgical intervention at the time of ASD closure or even long after the surgery. Ventricular and valvular geometric characteristics in preoperative ASD patients were evaluated by three‐dimensional (3D) transesophageal echocardiography.

Methods and Results

Mitral valve (MV) complex geometry was quantitatively measured by 3D transesophageal echocardiography in 11 ASD patients (Qp/Qs > 1.5) and 11 controls. The ASD group had a significantly larger indexed prolapse volume and height, with a larger anterior mitral leaflet than controls (0.53 [0.33–0.75] vs 0.057 [0.027–0.11] mL/m2, P = .0001; 2.89 [2.13–3.50] vs 0.92 [0.48–1.32] mm/m2, P < .0001; 391.3 [346.4–445.1] vs 295.3 (281.9–330.0) mm2/m2, P = .011, respectively). The right ventricular (RV)‐to‐left ventricular (LV) end‐systolic diameter ratio was larger in the ASD group than in the control group (1.34 [0.96–1.45] vs 0.85 [0.75–0.88], P = .004). The indexed inter‐papillary muscle distance (IPMD) was significantly shorter in the ASD group than in the control group (7.77 [6.55–8.24] vs 9.71 [8.64–10.8] mm/m2, P = .011). IPMD was significantly correlated with the RV‐LV end‐systolic diameter ratio (r = −.70, P = .017).

Conclusions

Inward shift of the LV papillary muscle tips due to RV dilation may be a major mechanism of MV prolapse in ASD. At the same time, positive remodeling of the anterior leaflet was observed in the ASD group, which may compensate for the billowing leaflet geometry to maintain effective coaptation. Three‐dimensional assessment of the MV apparatus geometry will help to further understand perioperative mitral regurgitation in patients with ASD.
Origins of hard carbonate nodules in arable Chernozems in the Central Russian Upland
Authors: Khokhlova Olga , Myakshina Tatyana , Kuznetsova Alsu
Published: February 2020

The genesis of hard carbonate nodules in the lowermost horizons (180–200 cm) of arable soils in the southern part of the forest‐steppe region of the Central Russian Upland was associated with a change in soil water regime. The conversion of forest to arable lands was studied in three agro‐chronosequences located on flat interfluves and consisted of undisturbed soils under deciduous forests and arable soils with different durations of agricultural use. Due to arable agricultural activity, the upper soil horizons become drier in the summer during the growing season, whereas the lowermost parts get wetter in the spring and autumn after harvests. As a result, two types of hard carbonate nodules, which differed in morphology, origin and age, formed in the arable soils. The first type of hard nodules had a dense cryptocrystalline fabric in thin sections and colloform morphology viewed under an electron microscope, consisting of calcite with Si, Al and Fe peaks in EDS spectra, and had a 14C‐age from 16,410 ± 200 to 13,570 ± 150 years BP. Their formation occurred due to an ascending of “old” carbonate matter in colloidal suspensions through capillary pores from parent rocks in the periods of strong heating of the soil surface; these nodules had an evaporative origin. The second type of hard nodules consisted of crystalline pure calcite and had a 14C‐age of < 4,500 years BP. They had a hydromorphic genesis and developed in periods of water stagnation in the deep horizons and can be considered to be markers of a seasonal hydromorphism of arable soils in the studied area.

Highlights

The conversion of forest to arable lands resulted in a change of soil water regime followed by the formation of two types of hard nodules

The uplifting of calcite colloidal solutions/suspensions from parent material enriched newly formed hard nodules with “old” 14C

The seasonal stagnant water in the lowermost soil horizons caused hard nodule recrystallization and rejuvenation by “young” 14C from organic acids and atmospheric CO2.
Economies or diseconomies of scope in the EU banking industry?
Authors: Beccalli Elena , Rossi Ludovico
Published: February 2020

Banks’ business models are assumed to affect efficiency, as documented in the banking supervisory priorities of the European Union (EU) for 2016–2018 and the 2014 structural reform proposal for the EU banking sector. We investigate evidence of economies and diseconomies of scope for the EU. We find cost economies of scope and revenue diseconomies of scope, resulting in profit diseconomies of scope. Separating commercial from investment activities generates economic inefficiencies on costs but efficiencies on revenues and profits. Economies of scope are affected by bank size, liquidity, competition in the banking industry, and the European sovereign debt crisis.
Actinic keratosis and surrounding skin exhibit changes in corneocyte surface topography and decreased levels of filaggrin degradation products
Authors: Keurentjes Anne J. , de Witt Kornelis D. , Jakasa Ivone , Rüther Lars , Kemperman Patrick M. J. H. , Kezic Sanja , Riethmüller Christoph
Published: February 2020

Actinic keratosis (AK) is a frequent premalignant skin lesion mainly caused by chronic sun exposure. AK lesions are often surrounded by invisible, subclinical alterations, called field of cancerization (FoC). Definition of FoC is of importance for therapy management; however, the criteria and non‐invasive tools to characterize FoC are lacking. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) proved to be a suitable tool for detection of changes in the corneocyte surface topography in inflammatory skin diseases, which share similar clinical features with AK such as hyper‐ and parakeratosis. Therefore, in this study we applied AFM to investigate AK and surrounding skin obtained by non‐invasive collection of the stratum corneum (SC) with adhesive tapes. Furthermore, we determined degradation products of structural protein filaggrin (natural moisturizing factor, NMF), which previously showed association with the changes in corneocyte surface topography. Ten patients with multiple AK on the face were recruited from the outpatient clinic. SC samples were collected from the AK lesion, skin sites adjacent to the AK, 5 cm from the AK and retroauricular area. Corneocyte surface topography was determined by AFM, and NMF by liquid chromatography. The AK lesion showed alterations of the corneocyte surface topography characterized by an increased number of nanosize protrusions, which gradually decreased with the distance from the lesion. NMF levels show an inverse pattern. Atomic force microscopy showed to be a suitable tool to detect changes in the corneocyte surface topography on the AK lesion and surrounding skin in a non‐invasive manner.
Using knowledge of behaviour and optic physiology to improve fish passage through culverts
Authors: Jones Matthew Jon , Hale Robin
Published: February 2020

Culverts reduce connectivity for aquatic animals by being both a hydraulic and physical barrier. However, altered light intensity may also be a behavioural barrier to fish movement, especially for diurnal species that have adapted to moving when it is light. We propose that knowledge of optical physiology and fish behaviour, two important mechanisms underpinning movement, can inform efforts to improve fish movement through culverts. We firstly review the sensory systems of fish with reference to visual sense and explore how this affects fish movement. We then highlight theoretical knowledge that can help us understand fish behaviour and the potential mismatch between the conditions under which fish have evolved and altered conditions within culverts. We describe potential knowledge gaps and directions for future research to improve our understanding of how culverts may affect fish movement. Finally, we explore the potential costs and ecological benefits of different mitigation options to identify those with the most promise for managing the light environment in culverts to facilitate movement. For researchers and managers exploring this subject, we suggest an approach that: (a) identifies light requirements for movement by different species, (b) tests movement under different light conditions and (c) considers an integrative assessment method for testing fish behaviour around culverts. Understanding how optical physiology, fish behaviour and culvert design influence fish movement can improve connectivity for a range of species.
Rapid change in Yangtze fisheries and its implications for global freshwater ecosystem management
Authors: Zhang Hui , Kang Myounghee , Shen Li , Wu Jinming , Li Junyi , Du Hao , Wang Chengyou , Yang Haile , Zhou Qiong , Liu Zhigang , Gorfine Harry , Wei Qiwei
Published: February 2020

Freshwater capture fisheries are globally essential for food security and aquatic biodiversity conservation. The Yangtze River Basin is the third longest and one of the most human‐influenced drainage basins worldwide. Since the founding of P. R. China in 1949, this large river system has suffered increasing human perturbation and its sustainable development is now severely challenged. Meta‐analysis showed that Yangtze River fisheries have experienced an extraordinary process of utilization–over‐exploitation–protection during the past 70 years, to an extent that other globally important rivers may never have encountered. Its fisheries appear to have collapsed over the past four decades, with yield decreasing to only 25% of an historical peak of 400,000 metric tonnes in the late 1950s. Endemic, migratory and rare fishes have been highly threatened with obvious changes in fish community structure and aquatic biodiversity. Anthropogenic activities, including impoundment of water in dams, discharge of pollutants and riverine modification for vessel navigation, have caused large decreases in fisheries yields. Projections from surplus production modelling showed potential for improvement under fishing ban scenarios, but without any prospect for full recovery to historical stock status. This study revealed that the change in fisheries resources was dominated by the social–ecological watershed system, and an integrated approach to river basin management is warranted. Better management of freshwater ecosystems to integrate food security with biodiversity conservation is urgently needed throughout the world, and the changes evident in the Yangtze River fish populations can serve as an informative global reference.
Why do takeover targets protect acquirers? Evidence from force‐the‐vote provisions
Authors: Gogineni Sridhar , Puthenpurackal John
Published: February 2020

We conduct the first comprehensive study of force‐the‐vote (FTV) provisions in mergers and acquisitions transactions and test competing agency and efficient contracting explanations for their usage. Target FTV provisions are observed more frequently when bidding is costly and are associated with higher target returns, a lower likelihood of competing bids, and a higher likelihood of deal completion. By providing greater deal protection to acquirers, target FTV provisions appear to improve bidding incentives resulting in higher target returns consistent with efficient contracting. Our results are robust to controlling for other merger provisions, such as termination fee provisions, stock voting agreements, and endogeneity concerns.
Patient knowledge, experiences and preferences regarding retinoblastoma and research: A qualitative study
Authors: Moses Catherine , Flegg Kaitlyn , Dimaras Helen
Published: February 2020

Background

We launched a patient engagement strategy to facilitate research involvement of the retinoblastoma (childhood eye cancer) community in Canada. To inform our strategy, we aimed to uncover the experiences with retinoblastoma, knowledge of retinoblastoma and research engagement among retinoblastoma survivors and parents.

Methods

Focus groups were held in Toronto and Calgary, including both in‐person and remote participants (via videoconference). Discussions centred on experience with retinoblastoma, knowledge of the disease and engagement with research. Focus group transcripts were evaluated by inductive thematic analysis.

Results

Four focus groups (3 in Toronto, 1 in Calgary) were held with a collective total of 34 participants. Retinoblastoma had a substantial impact on the life of participants, but overall, patients reported being able to adapt and persevere. Experiential knowledge of retinoblastoma was identified as distinct from the theoretical knowledge held by their clinicians. Participants indicated they often acted as a knowledge broker, communicating information about the cancer to their social networks. Participants were willing to engage in research as partners, but recognized barriers such as time and appropriate training.

Conclusions

Patients view their experiential knowledge of retinoblastoma as valuable to improving care and directing research. There is a unique role for research engagement in meeting the educational needs of patients.