bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interpersonal brain synchronization with instructor compensates for learner’s sleep deprivation in interactive learning
Authors: Pan Yafeng , Guyon Camille , Borragán Guillermo , Hu Yi , Peigneux Philippe
Published: April 2020

Recent advances shifted the focus on single-brain functioning toward two-brain communication during learning interactions, following the demonstration that interpersonal brain synchronization (IBS) can track instructor-learner information exchange. Here, we investigated (i) whether sleep deprivation (SD) that potentially impacts both social interactions and learning abilities modulates IBS, and (ii) conversely whether and to what extent IBS might compensate for SD-related learning deficits. Instructors (always with regular sleep, RS) were asked to teach numerical reasoning strategies to learners (either SD or RS), during which the activity of both brains was simultaneously recorded using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS). SD learners initially performed below their baseline level, worse than RS learners, but learning improvement was comparable between RS and SD conditions after learning with the instructor. IBS within the instructor-learner dyads was higher in the SD (vs. RS) condition in the left inferior frontal cortex. In addition, clustered IBS (estimated by nonnegative matrix factorization) was correlated with performance improvement. Finally, Granger Causality analyses revealed biased causality with higher instructor-to-learner than learner-to-instructor directionality in brain signal processing. Together, these results indicate that SD-related learning deficits can to some extent be compensated via interactions with an instructor, as reflected by increased IBS and preserved learning ability. It suggests an essential role of the instructor in driving synchrony between teaching and SD learning brains during interactions.
Enabling Fast Annotation Process With Table2Annotation Tool
Authors: Larmande Pierre , Jibril Kazim Muhammed
Published: April 2020

Semantic annotation is the process in which semantic concepts are linked to natural language. It helps in boosting the search and access of resources and can be used in information retrieval systems to increase the queries from the user. In this paper, we are interested in identifying ontological concepts in scientific text contained in spreadsheet. We developed a tool which is able to handle various types of spreadsheet. Furthermore, we used the benefits of NCBO Annotator API provided by BioPortal to enhance the semantic annotation functionalities covering spreadsheet data. Table2Annotation developed strengths in certain criteria like speed, error handling and complex concept matching.

Availability

GitHub :https://github.com/pierrelarmande/ontology-project
Estrogen exacerbates mammary involution through neutrophil dependent and independent mechanism
Authors: Lim Chew Leng , Or Yu Zuan , Ong Zoe , Chung Hwa Hwa , Hayashi Hirohito , Shrestha Smeeta , Chiba Shunsuke , Feng Lin , Lin Valerie CL
Published: April 2020

There is strong evidence that the pro-inflammatory microenvironment during post-partum mammary involution promotes parity-associated breast cancer. Estrogen exposure during mammary involution drives tumour growth through the activity of neutrophils. However, how estrogen and neutrophils influence mammary involution are unknown. Combined analysis of transcriptomic, protein, and immunohistochemical data in Balb/c mice with and without neutrophil depletion showed that estrogen promotes involution by exacerbating inflammation, cell death and adipocytes repopulation through neutrophil-dependent and neutrophil-independent mechanisms. Remarkably, 88% of estrogen-regulated genes in mammary tissue were mediated through neutrophils, which were recruited through estrogen-induced CXCL2-CXCR2 signalling. While neutrophils mediate estrogen-induced inflammation and adipocytes repopulation, estrogen-induced mammary cell death was mediated by neutrophils-independent upsurges of cathepsins and their lysosomal leakages that are critical for lysosome-mediated cell death. Notably, these multifaceted effects of estrogen are unique to the phase of mammary involution. These findings are important for the development of intervention strategies for parity-associated breast cancer.
6-Methyl-4-{[4-(trimethylsilyl)-1H-1,2,3-triazol-1-yl]methyl}-2H-chromen-2-one
Authors: Carmel Y. Sowmiya , Prasad N. L. , Begum Noor Shahina , Suresh Hari Prasad
Published: April 2020

In the title compound, C16H19N3O2Si, the dihedral angle between the coumarin ring system (r.m.s. deviation = 0.031 Å) and the triazole ring is 73.81 (8)°. In the crystal, molecules are linked into [010] chains by weak C—H...O interactions.
Leading in: inclusive leadership, inclusive climates and sexual harassment
Authors: Perry Elissa L. , Block Caryn J. , Noumair Debra A.
Published: April 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a model that explores the relationship between inclusive leadership, inclusive climates and sexual harassment and other negative work-related outcomes, at the work unit and individual levels.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual model of inclusive work unit leadership, inclusive work unit climate and sexual harassment based on a review of the literature.

Findings

Leaders who behave more inclusively are expected to have work units and work unit members who experience more positive outcomes and fewer negative outcomes including sexual harassment and other forms of mistreatment. Leaders impact their work unit and work unit members' outcomes directly as well as indirectly through the more inclusive work unit climates they create.

Research limitations/implications

The sexual harassment literature has identified climate for sexual harassment as a key predictor of sexually harassing behavior and its attendant negative outcomes. A focus on a broader inclusive climate, and inclusive leadership, may provide a richer understanding of the conditions under which sexual harassment and other forms of mistreatment occur and can be mitigated.

Practical implications

This model can help identify strategies organizations can employ (e.g. inclusive leadership development programs) to combat sexual harassment.

Social implications

This model may improve understanding of the systemic, organizational causes of sexual harassment reducing sexual harassment victims' potential self-blame and helping policymakers craft more effective sexual harassment interventions.

Originality/value

The paper conceives of work climates that contribute to sexual harassment more broadly than generally has been the case in the sexual harassment literature to date. The model highlights the important role that leaders play in shaping inclusive climates. It also contributes to the nascent literature on inclusion and inclusive climates, which has paid relatively little attention to exclusion and mistreatment including sexual harassment that are likely to arise in less inclusive workplaces.
Perils of road freight market deregulation: cabotage in the European Union
Authors: Sternberg Henrik S. , Hofmann Erik , Overstreet Robert E.
Published: April 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the impacts of the ongoing freight market deregulation in the European Union (EU). Specifically, this case study focuses on cabotage penetration rates in Germany, the largest logistics market in Europe. In light of the upcoming trade barriers, we intend to move this topic forward by emphasising its interdisciplinary nature.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the analysis of Eurostat data, expert interviews and a review of related literature, we elaborate and discuss four propositions related to the factors affecting cabotage penetration, future cabotage levels and the effects on modal split and empty runs.

Findings

We found that cabotage in Germany plays a more important role than officially reported and has increased drastically since 2008. Given our analysis, increased cabotage penetration seems to thwart efforts within the EU to promote a modal shift from road to rail and increased national empty runs are the future outcome of current regulations. In Germany, the cabotage share is likely to reach 16% in the next five years.

Research limitations/implications

This paper highlights the need for incorporating a more contextual understanding in freight carrier selection theory development in general as well as country-specific investigations in particular.

Practical implications

Logistics managers and policymakers looking at future strategies are advised to take the ongoing deregulation trend into consideration. European freight movement using cabotage operators may represent significant cost savings; however, these cost savings come at an environmental and social sustainability price as the modal shift to rail and fill rates suffer.

Originality/value

This paper represents an empirical and unbiased point of view, in contrast to the reports of the European Commission (pro-deregulation) or the reports of the haulage associations and labour unions (anti-deregulation).
Silence from the brands: message control, brand ambassadorship, and the public interest
Authors: Dahle Dag Yngve , Wæraas Arild
Published: April 2020

Purpose

Internal aspects of public sector branding have received limited attention in existing research. The purpose is to examine, firstly, how public managers experience and handle the tension between empowering employees to be dedicated brand ambassadors while at the same time regulating their voice, and secondly, to outline some implications of aligning employee voice with the organization's brand, especially for the public interest.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on two sources of data. The first includes official admission statistics for high schools in Oslo, Norway, for 2018/2019. Schools in Oslo, a city which has introduced a competitive secondary education market, fall into three admission levels based on points necessary for entry. The second source is semi-structured interviews with principals in 15 high schools on different admission levels.

Findings

Most of the principals were concerned about how marketization of the high schools leads to a skewed distribution of students and an increasing divide between ‘good’ and ‘bad’ schools, but signalled market adaptation through their handling of employee voice. Due to reputation and branding concerns in the competition for students and funding, voice restrictions, not brand ambassadorship, was the preferred strategy to ensure brand alignment. The consequence of this strategy, the paper argues, is public silence at the expense of the public interest.

Research limitations/implications

Not interviewing teachers or middle managers may be seen as a limitation, but principals were chosen as they are the main decision makers and strategists in high schools. Using a qualitative research design may be a limitation, but this design was chosen as it seems appropriate in order to uncover the school executives' perceptions, experiences and thoughts.

Practical implications

Selling the brand to employees and enabling them to further sell it to external stakeholders is an enticing ideal but perhaps less possible to implement in reality for public sector organizations facing strong market mechanisms because the concern for the brand image takes precedence. Public sector managers should exercise care when managing employee voice so as to not negatively influence employees’ commitment to the brand. They should also be aware of the implications of voice restrictions for the public interest. Public silence may cause a less informed public with limited possibilities to make informed school choices and knowing how money is spent.

Originality/value

The present study is among the first to explore internal aspects of public sector branding. Researching the position of employee voice in brand alignment strategies is a novel contribution. The study is unique in its focus on the implications of branding for the public interest.
Performance appraisal, justice and organizational effectiveness: a comparison between two universities
Authors: Kivipõld Kurmet , Türk Kulno , Kivipõld Lea
Published: April 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify how the design of a performance appraisal system (PAS) affects the perceived justice of academic employees (AE) about their performance appraisal (PA) and how this is associated with organizational effectiveness in terms of organizational leadership (OL).

Design/methodology/approach

The study subjects are two economic faculties of two Estonian public universities. The data for the study were collected using the PA Survey with a total of 82 AEs, OL Capability Questionnaire with a total of 72 AEs and the organizations' documents to analyze PAS. Assessment and analysis of the data included: the measurement of PAS design; the measurement of perceived justice from PA; the measurement of organizational leadership capability; analysis of the results gained from studying perceived justice from different PAS designs and organizational effectiveness in terms of OL.

Findings

Ultimately, the study reveals that PAS design affects academic employees' perception of distributive justice and organizational external effectiveness in terms of OL but does not affect academic employees' perception of procedural justice and organizational internal effectiveness in terms of OL.

Research limitations/implications

This study suggests that organizational effectiveness depends on perceived justice of employees from the design of PAS. However, the results of this study are valid in the arrangements of academic jobs in universities and in similar or close context of Estonian culture.

Originality/value

This paper demonstrates the role of PAS design in conditions of intellectual job arrangement in universities with its influence on organizational effectiveness in the context of OL.
Sensing skins for robots: product developments and recent research
Authors: Bogue Robert
Published: April 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to provide details of the use of sensing skins by robots through reference to commercial products and recent research.

Design/methodology/approach

Following an introduction, this paper first summarises the commercial status of robotic sensing skins. It then provides examples of recent safety skin research and is followed by a discussion of processing schemes applied to multiple sensor skin systems including humanoid robots. Examples of research into soft, flexible skins follow and the paper concludes with a short discussion.

Findings

The commercialisation of sensing skins has been driven by safety applications in the emerging cobot sector, and a market is emerging for skins that can be retrofitted to conventional robots. Sensing skin research is widespread and covers a multitude of sensing principles, technologies, materials and signal processing schemes. This will yield skins which could impart advanced sensory capabilities to robots and potential future uses include agile manipulation, search and rescue, personal care and advanced robotic prosthetics.

Originality/value

This paper provides details of the current role of sensing skins in robots and an insight into recent research.
Determinants of bilateral trade between China and Africa: a gravity model approach
Authors: Guan Zhijie , Ip Ping Sheong Jim Kwee Fat
Published: April 2020

Purpose

The main purpose of this paper is to analyse the different factors affecting Sino-African trade based on the gravity model, and propose some solutions to improve the problems.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is based on an extended gravity model, including trade agreement and recession as explanatory variables. The impacts of trade agreement and economic recession on Sino-African imports and exports are examined.

Findings

The results show that the product of GDP affects African exports to China significantly and negatively, and affects African imports from China positively. Real exchange rate affects African exports to China positively, and affects African imports from China negatively. Population affect African exports to China significantly and positively, and affect African imports from China positively. Recession have negative effects on both African imports from China and exports to China but is only significant for imports. Agreement affects African imports from China and exports to China positively. Our findings confirm the impact of economic recession, and imply that the structure of African product exported to China should be improved, and trade agreements should be reinforced.

Originality/value

This paper contributes and extends the literature on Sino-African trade by improving the traditional gravity model to include the impact of all trade agreements, and their aggregating effects on trade. The paper also seeks to assess the trade impact of economic recession through a dynamic gravity model approach for which there has been no research done to our knowledge. In this regard, it provides new understanding of the trade pattern between China and Africa, and ways in improving the Sino-African bilateral trade.
The construction of science and technology innovation policy design framework—take Shandong Province as an example
Authors: Jia Yongfei , Liu Chang , Yin Chong , Zhu Qing
Published: April 2020

Purpose

Under the background of economic and technological globalization, all countries will pay attention to science and technology innovation policies. At this time, the era of innovation policy plays an important role. In order to thoroughly implement the spirit of the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, earnestly innovate development concepts and strengthen the key supporting role of scientific and technological innovation for social development.

Design/methodology/approach

The research will make an in-depth study on the policy of scientific and technological innovation, take the change trend of the number of laws and regulations and the analysis of the basic content as the entry point, and classify it from five different aspects, such as the policy of scientific and technological system and mechanism, the policy of financial guidance, the policy of technological innovation of enterprises, the policy of scientific and technological talents, and the policy of intellectual property.

Findings

Through the comparison of the development history of science and technology policies at home and abroad, the development history of science and technology innovation policies under the special national conditions of China is obtained. Combining with the relevant basic theories of science and technology innovation system, designing from the publishing department, main content, and implementation subject, constructing a synergistic science and technology innovation system of “government, industry, university and research,” and forming an “integration of supply and demand” technology innovation framework will guide the development of China's science and technology innovation in the future.

Originality/value

The authors construct the policy framework of science and technology collaborative innovation based on the concept of science and technology innovation policies. The framework has realistic significance for its future development.
Case note review of community mental health services for children and young people in a UK rural location
Authors: Evans Nicola , Huws-Thomas Michelle
Published: April 2020

Purpose

The aim of the review is to investigate the reasons for referral to this child and adolescent mental health (CAMH) service and determine whether these had been met by the service.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a retrospective case note analysis that was conducted of 66 referrals to CAMHS for children and young people serving a rural community of 132,000. Case notes were selected by the NHS CAMHS manager based on referrals during the pre-defined date set. Of the 66 referrals to CAMHS, 19 were not included in the analysis because they had not been accepted into the service. Data were analysed on the remaining 47 cases who were referred, accepted into the service and had been offered an assessment by the service.

Findings

General practitioners represented the most frequent health care practitioner to refer to the service (n = 33, 70.2%). Self harm, suicidal intent, thoughts or overdose represented the highest percentage of referrals to the CAMHS service (38.3%); depression, low mood and sadness represented the next highest figure (19%) and anxiety and depression (10.6%) broadly speaking 68% of referrals related to low mood. Out of the 44 cases that were examined, 14/44 (32%) were referred back to the GP and no specific intervention was provided. Interventions provided to five cases were unspecified.

Research limitations/implications

A number of opportunities for developing the service that allowed for a focus on the core business of helping children and young people with low mood were identified. One of the limitations of this retrospective review was the time frame selected because it had been identified as a particularly high period for referral into the service and may not have been representative of the usual trend.

Practical implications

This informed a training strategy and resource allocation and a redefinition of discrete roles within the service.

Originality/value

This study highlighted the evidence about where the demand was on this service and hence the requirement to focus on their core business. This evidence generated by the review prompted a redirection of resources within the service. Additional reflections and discussion informed the development of a new training strategy and a redefinition of discrete roles within the service.
Role of financial intelligence unit (FIU) in anti-money laundering quest
Authors: Sultana Shirin
Published: April 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the effectiveness of the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) of Bangladesh and India in efforts of combating money laundering by these countries through a comparative assessment of several aspects of both FIUs.

Design/methodology/approach

The two FIUs are compared by using a “multiple case design” method of assessment. The framework for assessment was developed following the earlier models developed by scholars and recommendations of international institutions working on money laundering. Publicly available information from the respective websites of FIUs and annual reports has been used to complete the study.

Findings

The study has found that FIUs of both countries have improved significantly in fulfilling their mandates. There are several commonalities and differences between the two agencies. Despite showing improvement in several respects, both countries need to address certain basic deficiencies of the existing framework to make the agencies more effective.

Originality/value

It is supposed that this study will assist both countries to transform their existing FIUs to robust agencies in anti-money laundering efforts by taking care of the weaknesses identified here. It is hoped that the present study will encourage similar studies regarding the problematic areas of FIUs of Bangladesh and India as identified and in respect of FIUs of other countries.
A study of receiving money by issuing defective deposit receipts
Authors: You Chengjing
Published: April 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to convict the offender of real concurrence offenses of the most severe offense and applying the most severe penalty will result in no distinction between the perpetrator who conducted more than one act and the one who conducted only one act. This approach deviates from the purpose of criminal law. The real concurrence of offenses means several offenses, the perpetrator’s dangerousness and culpability are much higher than the perpetrator who commits just one crime, so combined punishments for several offenses should be applied to the real concurrence of offenses.

Design/methodology/approach

If the depositors are acquaintances or relatives and friends, the relationship can be explained by “personality trust.” If the depositors are strangers, but they have complied with their duties of care, the deposit relationship can be explained by “system trust.”

Findings

The real concurrence of offenses means several offenses, the perpetrator’s dangerousness and culpability are much higher than the perpetrator who commits just one crime, so combined punishments for several offenses should be applied to the real concurrence of offenses.

Originality/value

The principle of choosing the most severe punishment applied to the real concurrence of offense should be abolished. As the perpetrator separately conducts two acts at different times, these acts infringe on different legal interests. Although these acts exist closely, the authors cannot deny that these acts constitute more than one offense.
Consumer location and ad type preferences as predictors of attitude toward femvertising
Authors: Abitbol Alan , Sternadori Miglena M.
Published: April 2020

Purpose

This purpose of this study was to investigate how consumers’ degree of rurality and preference for specific ad types are associated with their attitude toward femvertising (pro-female advertising).

Design/methodology/approach

An online survey of US-based respondents over 18 years of age was administered by Qualtrics Panels from February 7 to February 15, 2018. The final sample included 418 respondents.

Findings

The more urban the respondents’ location was, the more educated they were, leading to more support for gender equality but not a more positive attitude to femvertising. Liking of ads described as “funny,” “with a message” and “emotional” was associated with a more positive attitude toward femvertising.

Research limitations/implications

The findings were limited by the use of a convenience sample and the limited variance in participants’ rurality owing to the prevalence of respondents based in or near metropolitan areas. Future research should seek to understand how, if at all, femvertising has affected rather than only reflected social change across a variety of cultural settings.

Practical implications

Marketers can expect femvertising appeals to be relatively effective across the rural–urban divide. Femvertising campaigns should consider using or continue to use humor, inspiration/moral reasoning, and emotion in their messages.

Social implications

The relative lack of controversy surrounding femvertising indicates gender equality may be embraced across social divides, possibly because in the current economic environment, women’s empowerment is linked to monetary gains for both companies and households.

Originality/value

As the demand for companies to take a stance regarding socially charged issues increases, there is a critical need to understand the factors that impact consumer demand in the context of pro-female messaging. This study expands the literature on the effects of two such factors – rurality and ad type preferences – on attitudes toward advertising promoting egalitarian values. No previous research has investigated the role of these variables in cause-related marketing.
Work-family conflict and job dissatisfaction among police officers: mediation of threat to family role and moderation of role segmentation enhancement
Authors: Islam Talat , Khan Mubbsher Munawar , Ahmed Ishfaq , Usman Ahmad , Ali Muhammad
Published: April 2020

Purpose

This study investigates the mechanism between work-family conflict (WFC) and job dissatisfaction by considering threat to family role as a mediator and role segment enhancement as a moderator.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were collected from 245 male and 245 female police officers using a questionnaire-based survey method through convenience sampling.

Findings

Results revealed that threat to family role partially mediates the association between WFC and job dissatisfaction. Role segment enhancement was also noted to weaken the association between WFC and job dissatisfaction. Moreover, the study revealed that male employees are more likely to draw a boundary between their work and family domain, which was not found in their female counterparts.

Research limitations/implications

The survey for this study was conducted in a male-dominant developing country, so results may be different in developed countries. The study has theoretical and managerial implications.

Originality/value

This study adds value to the existing literature on work-family conflicts in the perspective of source attribution and boundary management. Further, to the best of researchers' knowledge, none of the previous studies have examined role segment enhancement and threat to family role among the police workforce.
Female attrition from the police profession
Authors: Alecu Andreea I. , Bringsrud Fekjær Silje
Published: April 2020

Purpose

Do female police recruits drop out of police education and/or leave the profession more often than men, and has this changed over time? Can gender differences be explained by the background characteristics and family obligations of the recruits?

Design/methodology/approach

This paper employs administrative registry data covering all individuals admitted to the police academy (1995–2010, N = 6570) and all academy recruits employed in the Norwegian police (1992–2014, N = 7301). The paper analyses the data using discrete-time logistic regression and coarsened exact matching.

Findings

The levels of dropout and attrition are generally low. However, female recruits have a somewhat greater tendency both to drop out of education and to leave the force. The gender differences are quite stable, although the percentage of female recruits has risen sharply. Family obligations do not seem to explain female attrition from the police force.

Research limitations/implications

Because women tend to leave the police more often than men, further research is suggested in investigating female police recruits’ experiences. However, the relatively low level of dropout and limited gender differences also provide a reason to question whether stories of the police as a male-dominated profession not adapted to women are valid across time and in different settings.

Originality/value

This study provides exhaustive and detailed longitudinal data not previously available in studies of police careers. This study also tracks attrition in a period that has involved both increased numerical representation of women and changes in police culture, while accounting for other observable differences between male and female police officers. Contrary to common explanations, there is limited importance of family obligations and altered gender composition.
How can art museums develop new business opportunities? Exploring young visitors’ experience
Authors: Batat Wided
Published: April 2020

Purpose

So far, most studies in cultural tourism have looked at visitors in relation to the experience itself. This study aims to bring a broader view on what constitutes the daily environment of younger visitors and how museums could use this knowledge to develop a service delivery that is more adapted to their needs without sacrificing the museums’ integrity and authenticity. As such, this research brings a unique and deeper analysis of young visitor behavior, in relation to arts and cultural practices that could be expanded to other areas of tourism experiences.

Design/methodology/approach

The present study examines the main art and cultural tourism activities among adolescents. Using 32 in-depth interviews with adolescents between 13 and 18 years of age, this research takes a closer look at their experience and perceptions of art museums and exhibitions.

Findings

The findings show that adolescents’ perception of arts and exhibitions do not correspond to museum art criteria held by cultural tourism professionals. Based on the key theoretical themes emerging from the empirical investigation, a conceptual framework of adolescents’ attitudes toward arts and exhibitions is now presented to provide insights into the dimensions of adolescents’ art consumption in today’s western consumer society. Figure 1 provides a graphic model that visualizes adolescents’ art consumption experiences and summarizes the main findings and marketing implications in the arts field.

Originality/value

Based on these findings, new ways of engaging with adolescents in the field of arts are suggested to create new business opportunities for the museum. The findings lean toward the necessity to develop a more youth-centric approach, which differentiates between how adults define art and what adolescents believe art is supposed to be. Thus, the findings demonstrate that adolescents’ art consumption experiences are deeply anchored within the context of their social environment and the value judgments of their peers. The adolescent-centric logic within the arts experiential context is taken into account to underline the gap existing in many current arts marketing strategies that are targeting young visitors – and especially adolescents.
Prestack data enhancement with phase corrections in time‐frequency domain guided by local multidimensional stacking
Authors: Bakulin Andrey , Neklyudov Dmitri , Silvestrov Ilya
Published: April 2020

We present a new approach to enhancing weak prestack reflection signals without sacrificing higher frequencies. As a first step, we employ known multidimensional local stacking to obtain an approximate ‘model of the signal’. Guided by phase spectra from this model, we can detect very weak signals and make them visible and coherent by ‘repairing’ corrupted phase of original data. Both presented approaches – phase substitution and phase sign corrections – show good performance on complex synthetic and field data suffering from severe near‐surface scattering where conventional processing methods are rendered ineffective. The methods are mathematically formulated as a special case of time‐frequency masking (common in speech processing) combined with the signal model from local stacking. This powerful combination opens the avenue for a completely new family of approaches for multi‐channel seismic processing that can address seismic processing of land data with nodes and single sensors in the desert environment.
Ultrasound‐based estimation of remaining cardiac function in LVAD‐supported ex vivo hearts
Authors: Fixsen Louis S. , Petterson Niels J. , Houthuizen Patrick , Rutten Marcel C. M. , van de Vosse Frans N. , Lopata Richard G. P.
Published: April 2020

Left ventricular assist devices (LVAD) provide cardiac support to patients with advanced heart failure. Methods that can directly measure remaining LV function following device implantation do not currently exist. Previous studies have shown that a combination of loading (LV pressure) and deformation (strain) measurements enables quantitation of myocardial work. We investigated the use of ultrasound (US) strain imaging and pressure–strain loop analysis in LVAD‐supported hearts under different hemodynamic and pump unloading conditions, with the aim of determining LV function with and without LVAD support. Ex vivo porcine hearts (n = 4) were implanted with LVADs and attached to a mock circulatory loop. Measurements were performed at hemodynamically defined “heart conditions” as the hearts deteriorated from baseline. Hemodynamic (including LV pressure) and radio‐frequency US data were acquired during a pump‐ramp protocol at speeds from 0 (with no pump outflow) to 10 000 revolutions per minute (rpm). Regional circumferential (εcirc) and radial (εrad) strains were estimated over each heart cycle. Regional ventricular dyssynchrony was quantitated through time‐to‐peak strain. Mean change in LV pulse pressure and εcirc between 0 and 10 krpm were −21.8 mm Hg and −7.24% in the first condition; in the final condition −46.8 mm Hg and −19.2%, respectively. εrad was not indicative of changes in pump speed or heart condition. Pressure–strain loops showed a degradation in the LV function and an increased influence of LV unloading: loop area reduced by 90% between 0 krpm in the first heart condition and 10 krpm in the last condition. High pump speeds and degraded condition led to increased dyssynchrony between the septal and lateral LV walls. Functional measurement of the LV while undergoing LVAD support is possible by using US strain imaging and pressure–strain loops. This can provide important information about remaining pump function. Use of novel LV pressure estimation or measurement techniques would be required for any future use in LVAD patients.
Does loneliness, self‐esteem and psychological distress correlate with problematic internet use? A Bangladeshi survey study
Authors: Mamun Mohammed A. , Hossain Md. Sharif , Moonajilin Mst. Sabrina , Masud Mohammed Tanvir , Misti Jannatul Mawa , Griffiths Mark D.
Published: April 2020

Background

Researchers have claimed that problematic internet use (PIU) and internet addiction (IA) is a global mental health problem. However, little research has addressed this issue in Bangladesh and no previous study has examined the relationship between PIU and potential psychological risk factors.

Aim

The present study examined the prevalence of PIU and its associated risk factors including socio‐demographic variables, internet use behaviors, and other psychological variables including loneliness, self‐esteem, and psychological distress.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted among Bangladeshi students (N = 605). Measures included the Internet Addiction Test (IAT), Rosenberg's Self‐Esteem Scale, the UCLA Loneliness Scale, and the General Health Questionnaire.

Results

Using a cut‐off score of ≤60 (out of 100) on the IAT, the prevalence of PIU was 16.5% (n = 100). Regression analysis showed that sleep disturbance (more or less than 6‐7 hours sleeping time), not using internet for academic purposes, and online chatting were risk factors for PIU. Loneliness and psychological distress were positively correlated with PIU, whereas self‐esteem was negatively correlated.

Conclusions

The present study highlights that PIU among Bangladeshi university students is an issue of concern and that targeted prevention is needed among emerging adults to help overcome the potentially negative effects of problematic internet use.
Contact urticaria and protein contact dermatitis in the Finnish Register of Occupational Diseases in a period of 12 years
Authors: Pesonen Maria , Koskela Kirsi , Aalto‐Korte Kristiina
Published: April 2020

Background

Although occupational contact urticaria (CU) and protein contact dermatitis (PCD) are considered frequent among workers with exposure to proteinaceous materials, data on occupations at risk and the main causes of these occupational skin diseases are relatively limited.

Objectives

To report the causative agents and risk occupations for CU and PCD in the Finnish Register of Occupational Diseases (FROD).

Methods

We retrieved from the FROD all recognized cases of CU/PCD in the years 2005–2016.

Results

With 570 cases, CU and PCD constituted 11% of all recognized cases of occupational skin diseases in the study period. Occupations with the highest incidence of CU/PCD included bakers, chefs and cooks, farmers and farm workers, veterinarians, gardeners, and hairdressers. The most common causative agents were cow dander and flour and grain, followed by natural rubber latex (NRL) and other food. In food‐related occupations, wheat and other flours were by far the most common cause of CU/PCD, with 76 cases, whereas fish and other animal‐derived food caused 33 and other plant‐derived food caused 23 cases.

Conclusions

Apart from the Finnish peculiarity of cow dander allergy, a striking finding was a large share of CU/PCD caused by flours in food handlers as compared to other food.
Los derechos humanos de los niños con discapacidad durante emergencias sanitarias: el desafío de COVID‐19
Authors: Schiariti Verónica
Published: April 2020

Video Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qIOr9xSB7RQ&t=18s
Food‐effect study of nilotinib in chronic myeloid leukaemia (NiFo study): Enabling dose reduction and relief of treatment burden
Authors: Boons Christel C. L. M. , den Hartog Yvonne M. , Janssen Jeroen J. W. M. , Zandvliet Anthe S. , Vos René M. , Swart Eleonora L. , Hendrikse N. Harry , Hugtenburg Jacqueline G.
Published: April 2020

Objectives

Taking advantage of its food‐dependent bioavailability, the present study investigated the effect of a reduced dose taken with real‐life meals on the pharmacokinetics (PK) of nilotinib in chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) patients.

Methods

Nilotinib was taken fasted (300 mg BID, days 1‐4) or with real‐life meals (200 mg BID, days 5‐11). Rich sampling (days 1, 3, 8, 11) allowed for non‐compartmental PK analysis. Nilotinib exposure (AUC0–12 h ‐Cmin ‐Cmax) and its intra‐ and interpatient variability were compared between the two regimens. Adverse events were recorded by means of a patient diary and ECG monitoring.

Results

Fifteen patients aged 40‐74 years participated. Nilotinib PK following 200 mg BID taken with a meal strongly resembled that of 300 mg BID taken fasted (Cmin percentile (P)10‐P90: 665‐1404 ng/mL and 557‐1743 ng/mL, respectively). Meals delayed nilotinib absorption. Intra‐ and interpatient variability were not increased by intake with meals. Nilotinib with food was well tolerated.

Conclusion

With support of therapeutic drug monitoring, the use of a reduced 200 mg nilotinib dose with real‐life meals seems feasible and safe. Future (confirmatory) studies should further explore the usefulness of nilotinib dosing together with food, including the relationship with treatment efficacy as well as long‐term effects on quality of life.

Clinical Trial Registration: NTR5000 (Netherlands Trial Register, www.trialregister.nl).
The Australian experience with switching to extended half‐life factor VIII and IX concentrates: On behalf of the Australian Haemophilia Centre Directors' Organisation
Authors: Brennan Yvonne , Parikh Sumit , McRae Simon , Tran Huyen
Published: April 2020

Introduction

Extended half‐life (EHL) factor (F) VIII and FIX concentrates became available to selected haemophilia A (HA) and haemophilia B (HB) patients in Australia in March 2018.

Aim

To determine factor utilization and bleeding outcomes during the first 6 months of prophylaxis with EHL concentrates, and compare it to the last 6 months of prophylaxis with standard half‐life (SHL) concentrates.

Methods

A national, retrospective study was performed using data extracted from the Australian Bleeding Disorders Registry (ABDR). Patients with ≥3 months of EHL exposure were analysed.

Results

A total of 129 HA patients (86 Adynovate, 43 Eloctate) and 64 HB (Alprolix) patients were included in the study. For HA, switching to EHL FVIII resulted in decreased injection frequency (3 to 2 per week), improved ‘reduced adherence’ rates (18% to 7%), decreased median annualized bleeding rate (ABR; 2.0 to 0.0) and increased proportion of patients with zero bleeds (44% to 64%). Actual factor utilization increased by 20 IU/kg/wk on Adynovate and 4 IU/kg/wk on Eloctate. For HB, switching to EHL FIX resulted in decreased injection frequency (2 to 1 per week), improved ‘reduced adherence’ rates (35% to 11%), decreased median ABR (3.0 to 2.0) and increased proportion of patients with zero bleeds (31% to 46%). Actual factor utilization decreased by 4 IU/kg/wk. There was no clinically significant inhibitor development.

Conclusion

Compared to SHL, EHL FVIII resulted in improved bleeding outcomes, albeit at the expense of increased factor utilization. EHL FIX resulted in improved bleeding outcomes despite decreased factor utilization.
Serial block‐face scanning electron microscopy reveals novel intercellular connections in human term placental microvasculature
Authors: Palaiologou Eleni , Goggin Patricia , Chatelet David S. , Ribeiro de Souza Rodolfo , Chiu Wendy , Ashley Brogan , Lofthouse Emma M. , Sengers Bram G. , Torrens Christopher , Page Anton M. , Cleal Jane K. , Lewis Rohan M.
Published: April 2020

The placental microvasculature is a conduit for fetal blood allowing solute exchange between the mother and the fetus. Serial block‐face scanning electron microscopy (SBF SEM) allows ultrastructure to be viewed in three dimensions and provides a new perspective on placental anatomy. This study used SBF SEM to study endothelial cells within the human placental microvasculature from uncomplicated pregnancies. Term human placental villi were aldehyde‐fixed and processed for imaging by SBF SEM. Manual segmentation was carried out on a terminal villous capillary and an intermediate villous arteriole and venule. Twenty‐seven SBF SEM stacks from terminal villi were analysed using stereological approaches to determine the volumes of microvascular components and the proportions of pericyte coverage. SBF SEM analysis of capillary endothelial cells revealed the presence of interendothelial protrusions (IEPs) originating from the donor cell at the endothelial junction and forming deep thin projections up to 7 μm into the adjacent endothelial cells. IEP density was estimated to be in the order of 35 million cm–3 placental tissue. Pericytes cover 15% of the fetal capillary surface area in terminal villi. In comparison, the cytotrophoblast covered 24% of the syncytiotrophoblast basal membrane. A trans‐endothelial channel was observed in a region of the vasculo‐syncytial capillary. Pericyte coverage was extensive in both arteriole and venule. Three‐dimensional imaging of the placental microvasculature identified novel ultrastructural features and provided an insight into factors that may influence capillary permeability and placental function. We hypothesise that the IEPs may allow mechanosensing between adjacent endothelial cells to assist in the maintenance of vessel integrity. The numbers of endothelial junctions, the presence of trans‐endothelial channels and the extent of pericyte coverage all provide an insight into the factors determining capillary permeability.
The efficacy of bleomycin for treating keloid and hypertrophic scar: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Kim Woo Il , Kim Sooyoung , Cho Sung Woo , Cho Moon Kyun
Published: April 2020

Background

Pathologic scars can lead to itching, erythema, and psychological stress due to cosmetic problems. Bleomycin, one of anticancer agents, has been used for treating keloid or hypertrophic scar. Some studies have shown that bleomycin can induce markedly scar improvement.

Aims

To evaluate the efficacy of bleomycin compared to corticosteroid as well as other treatments for keloid or hypertrophic scar using meta‐analysis methods.

Methods

A computerized search was performed in different databases including Cochrane, Embase, and PubMed. Three randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and two controlled clinical trials (CCTs) were included. Then, statistical analyses of extracted outcome data from the studies were calculated using Rex (version 3.0.1; RexSoft Inc).

Results

Scar improvement was significantly increased in the bleomycin group compared to the triamcinolone acetonide (TAC) group (SMD: 0.59, 95% CI: 0.30‐0.88, P < .0001). In addition, there was also statistically significant difference between the bleomycin group and the 5‐FU group (SMD: 1.37, 95% CI: 0.88‐1.85, P < .0001). Bleomycin increased relatively scar improvement compared to TAC combined with 5‐FU, although there was no statistical difference (SMD: 0.63, 95% CI: −0.59‐1.84, P = .3108). Furthermore, bleomycin demonstrated significantly increased improvement of scar compared to TAC combined with cryotherapy (SMD: 1.11, 95% CI: 0.48‐1.74, P = .0006).

Conclusions

This meta‐analysis found that bleomycin was more effective for treating keloid or hypertrophic scar than other treatments including TAC, 5‐FU, TAC combined with 5‐FU, and TAC combined with cryotherapy. However, further comprehensive studies, including randomized controlled trials, are needed to perform objective analysis.