bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FrequentPIK3CAmutations in eutopic endometrium of patients with ovarian clear cell carcinoma
Authors: Murakami Kosuke , Kanto Akiko , Sakai Kazuko , Miyagawa Chiho , Takaya Hisamitsu , Nakai Hidekatsu , Kotani Yasushi , Nishio Kazuto , Matsumura Noriomi
Published: February 2021

Recent studies have reported cancer-associated mutations in normal endometrium. Mutations in eutopic endometrium may lead to endometriosis and endometriosis-associated ovarian cancer. We investigatedPIK3CAmutations (PIK3CAm) for three hotspots (E542K, E545K, H1047R) in eutopic endometrium in patients with ovarian cancer and endometriosis from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded specimens by laser-capture microdissection and droplet digital PCR. The presence ofPIK3CAm in eutopic endometrial glands with mutant allele frequency ≥15% were as follows: ovarian clear cell carcinoma (OCCC) withPIK3CAm in tumors, 20/300 hotspots in 11/14 cases; OCCC withoutPIK3CAm, 42/78 hotspots in 11/12 cases; high-grade serous ovarian carcinoma, 8/45 hotspots in 3/5 cases; and endometriotic cysts, 5/63 hotspots in 5/6 cases. These rates were more frequent than in non-cancer non-endometriosis controls (7/309 hotspots in 5/17 cases). In OCCC withoutPIK3CAm, 7/12 (58%) cases showed multiple hotspot mutations in the same eutopic endometrial glands. In 3/54 (5.6%) cases,PIK3CAm was found in eutopic endometrial stroma. Multi-sampling of the OCCC tumors withPIK3CAm showed intratumor heterogeneity in three of eight cases. In two cases,PIK3CAm was detected in the stromal component of the tumor. HomogenousPIK3CAm in the epithelial component of the tumor matched the mutation in eutopic endometrial glands in only one case. Eutopic endometrial glands in ovarian cancer and endometriosis show high frequency ofPIK3CAm that is not consistent with tumors, and multiple hotspot mutations are often found in the same glands. Our results suggest that mostPIK3CAm in eutopic endometrial glands are passenger rather than driver mutations.
Long-range promoter-enhancer contacts are conserved during evolution and contribute to gene expression robustness
Authors: Laverré Alexandre , Tannier Eric , Necsulea Anamaria
Published: February 2021

Gene expression is regulated through complex molecular interactions, involvingcis-acting elements that can be situated far away from their target genes. Data on long-range contacts between promoters and regulatory elements is rapidly accumulating. However, it remains unclear how these regulatory relationships evolve and how they contribute to the establishment of robust gene expression profiles. Here, we address these questions by comparing genome-wide maps of promoter-centered chromatin contacts in mouse and human. We show that there is significant evolutionary conservation ofcis-regulatory landscapes, indicating that selective pressures act to preserve not only regulatory element sequences but also their chromatin contacts with target genes. The extent of evolutionary conservation is remarkable for long-range promoter-enhancer contacts, illustrating how the structure of regulatory landscapes constrains large-scale genome evolution. We show that the evolution ofcis-regulatory landscapes, measured in terms of distal element sequences, synteny or contacts with target genes, is significantly associated with gene expression evolution.
Allostery in Proteins as Point-to-Point Telecommunication in a Network: Frequency Decomposed Signal-to-Noise Ratio and Channel Capacity Analysis
Authors: Varolgüneş Yasemin Bozkurt , Rudzinski Joseph F. , Demir Alper
Published: February 2021

Abstract

Allostery in proteins is a phenomenon in which the binding of a ligand induces alterations in the activity of remote functional sites. This can be conceptually viewed aspoint-to-point telecommunication in a networked communication medium, where a signal (ligand) arriving at the input (binding site) propagates through the network (interconnected and interacting atoms) to reach the output (remote functional site). The reliable transmission of the signal to distal points occurs despite all the disturbances (noise) affecting the protein. Based on this point of view, we propose a computational frequency-domain framework to characterize the displacements and the fluctuations in a region within the protein, originating from the ligand excitation at the binding site and noise, respectively. We characterize the displacements in the presence of the ligand, and the fluctuations in its absence. In the former case, the effect of the ligand is modeled as an external dynamic oscillatory force excitation, whereas in the latter, the sole source of fluctuations is the noise arising from the interactions with the surrounding medium that is further shaped by the internal protein network dynamics. We introduce the excitation frequency as a key factor in aSignal-to-Noise ratio (SNR)based analysis, where SNR is defined as the ratio of the displacements stemming from only the ligand to the fluctuations due to noise alone. We then employ an information-theoretic (communication) channel capacity analysis that extends the SNR based characterization by providing a route for discovering new allosteric regions. We demonstrate the potential utility of the proposed methods for the representative PDZ3 protein.
The sequential and cooperative action of CSB, CSA and UVSSA targets the TFIIH
complex to DNA damage-stalled RNA polymerase II
Authors: van der Weegen Yana , Berman Hadar Golan , Mevissen Tycho E.T. , Apelt Katja , González-Prieto Román , Heilbrun Elisheva , Vertegaal Alfred C.O. , van den Heuvel Diana , Walter Johannes C. , Adar Sheera , Luijsterburg Martijn S.
Published: February 2021

The response to DNA damage-stalled RNA polymerase II (RNAPIIo) involves the
assembly of the transcription-coupled repair (TCR) complex on actively
transcribed strands. The function of the TCR proteins CSB, CSA and UVSSA and the
manner in which the core DNA repair complex, including transcription factor IIH
(TFIIH), is recruited are largely unknown. Here, we define the assembly
mechanism of the TCR complex in human isogenic knockout cells. We show that TCR
is initiated by RNAPIIo-bound CSB, which recruits CSA through a newly identified
CSA-interaction motif (CIM). Once recruited, CSA facilitates the association of
UVSSA with stalled RNAPIIo. Importantly, we find that UVSSA is the key factor
that recruits the TFIIH complex in a manner that is stimulated by CSB and CSA.
Together these findings reveal a sequential and highly cooperative assembly
mechanism of TCR proteins and reveal the mechanism for TFIIH recruitment to DNA
damage-stalled RNAPIIo to initiate repair.
COVID-19 as a super crisis: implications for place management
Authors: Wexler Mark N. , Oberlander Judy
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate COVID-19 as a super crisis in the design and management of places.

Design/methodology/approach

This theory-driven work outlines why and how, by treating COVID-19 as a super crisis, the immunological view rises in priority and swiftly ushers in short- and long-term implications for space design and place management.

Findings

First, this paper looks at the short-term impact of COVID-19 upon space and place management in addressing how porous bubbling, stippling and flexible curtaining respond to immediate retrofitting needs during the pandemic. Using the concept of COVID-19-induced collective trauma, this paper draws attention to health-care facilities, schools, workplaces, commercial buildings and public outdoor spaces. These sites require short-term improvisation in place and space design and will, where the collective trauma of COVID-19 leaves strong traces, require long-term redesign and rethinking.

Social implications

As a super crisis, COVID-19 generates contradictions in the existing trend in space and place studies from the notion of space and place as a container to one focusing on “flow.” A focus on flow highlights a focus on space and place as adaptable to changes in flow, especially as augmented and mediated by technology.

Originality/value

This treatment of COVID-19 as a super crisis is intended to stimulate the design and management of spaces and places in the post-COVID-19 period.
Study on coordination of industrial technology ambidextrous innovation in knowledge ecology spiral
Authors: Long Yue , Liu Pan
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Knowledge input development and innovation implementation are new features of industrial technology innovation. The purpose of this study is to find the process of coordination and ecological spiral in the ambidextrous innovation of industrial technology.

Design/methodology/approach

To design the model of industrial technology ambidextrous innovation based on knowledge ecology spiral, an input-output model of knowledge for ambidextrous innovation and a spiral model of knowledge ecology were constructed based on an improved Lotka-Volterra model. Then, the equilibriums in different knowledge inputs and the spiral evolution of knowledge ecology were analyzed. Finally, the ambidextrous coordination mechanism of the core organization was revealed.

Findings

By coordinating the knowledge inputs and the knowledge ecology spiral, enterprises extend the R&D investments in the innovation chain, which will facilitate the knowledge inputs of the exploitative and exploratory innovation. Implementing the ambidextrous coordination in the technology innovation chain and the knowledge ecology chain has the advantage of promoting knowledge inputs, mobility and ecological spiral. Meanwhile, it can achieve the “multi-source, integration and coordination” development of industrial technology innovation.

Originality/value

The two-element innovative knowledge input coordination model and the knowledge ecological spiral model based on the improved Lotka-Volterra model are constructed, which extends the modeling way of the traditional knowledge input-output profit model. It is expected to reduce the amount of knowledge input of a single member and provide theoretical reference for improving the efficiency of knowledge input by constructing the inter-dependent regenerative and inter-generative knowledge interaction.
What are the experiences of professionals working with parents with learning disabilities? A meta-ethnography
Authors: Pytlowana Agnieszka , Stenfert Kroese Biza
Published: February 2021

Purpose

It has been recommended that social, health and other relevant professionals work collaboratively to support parents with learning disabilities (LD) and their children. A number of qualitative studies have investigated the experiences of professionals who work with parents with LD. A synthesis of these experiences has not as yet been produced, and therefore, the purpose of this paper is to review how professionals experience working with parents with LD to inform practice guidelines on how parents with LD can be supported most effectively.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic search took place using five databases and 15 peer-reviewed papers were identified based on the relevant inclusion and exclusion criteria. The quality of each included paper was systematically evaluated. Meta-ethnography was used to synthesise the qualitative data from the identified studies.

Findings

The synthesis offered six themes: concerns about knowledge and experience, the importance of and difficulties with available support, the importance of and challenges with liaison with and between professionals, differences in power, conflicting priorities – parents or children?, the personal impact on professionals.

Originality/value

The results are discussed in the context of previous research. Recommendations for future research and practice innovation are made.
Between diagnostic precision and rapid decision‐making: Using institutional ethnography to explore diagnostic work in the context of Cancer Patient Pathways in Norway
Authors: Næss Siri Christine K. , Håland Erna
Published: February 2021

Alongside other Nordic countries, the Norwegian government has introduced Cancer Patient Pathways (CPPs) for faster diagnostic assessment and timely treatment to improve the quality of cancer care. A key aspect of CPPs is the introduction of time limits for each phase of the diagnostic investigation. Occurring simultaneously are ongoing advances in medical technology, complicating the process of diagnosing and treating cancer. In this article, using institutional ethnography, we examine: how does the CPP policy influence physicians' experiences of diagnostic work? Data were collected from May 2018 to May 2019, through semi‐structured interviews with physicians across five hospitals in Norway (N = 27). Our findings indicate that the implementation of various strategies aimed at enhancing quality in cancer care collide, compelling physicians to negotiate between diagnostic precision and rapid decision‐making. We conclude that attention to interfaces between multiple guidelines and their implications for practice is crucial for understanding and developing quality of care.
On the role of the written accent mark in visual word recognition in Spanish
Authors: Gutiérrez‐Palma Nicolás , Shelton Michael , Ramos‐Álvarez Manuel Miguel
Published: February 2021

Background

Previous research has shown that syllables are important units in visual word recognition in Spanish. If they are treated as real phonological units, then other related phonological features such as lexical stress (syllable prominence) may also play a role in this process. At times, lexical stress is the only difference between minimal pairs in Spanish (e.g., sábana ‘sheet’ vs sabana ‘savannah’). These words are usually distinguished by an accent mark. This research examines whether lexical stress is used in visual word recognition and the role of the written accent mark in this process.

Methods

In a lexical decision task, words with an irregular stress pattern according to generative phonological rules (e.g., túnel ‘tunnel’ or mitin ‘meeting’) were compared with regular words (e.g., melón ‘melon’ or grifo ‘faucet’).

Results

Irregular words without an accent mark (mitin) were particularly difficult to recognise. However, irregulars that carried an accent mark were identified significantly more quickly and accurately.

Conclusions

These findings are discussed as evidence that lexical stress may be an important cue in visual word recognition in Spanish, as suggested by previous research in the psycholinguistic and educational fields, and that models of visual word recognition should consider the impact of the accent mark in languages such as Spanish.
People’s preferences for self‐management support
Authors: Iglesias Urrutia Cynthia P. , Erdem Seda , Birks Yvonne F. , Taylor Stephanie J. C. , Richardson Gerry , Bower Peter , van den Berg Bernard , Manca Andrea
Published: February 2021

Objective

To identify and assess the preferences of people with long‐term health conditions toward generalizable characteristics of self‐management support interventions, with the objective to inform the design of more person‐centered support services.

Data Sources

Primary qualitative and quantitative data collected on a representative sample of individuals with at least one of the fifteen most prevalent long‐term conditions in the UK.

Study Design

Targeted literature review followed by a series of one‐to‐one qualitative semistructured interviews and a large‐scale discrete choice experiment.

Data Collection

Digital recording of one‐to‐one qualitative interviews, one‐to‐one cognitive interviews, and a series of online quantitative surveys, including two best‐worst scaling and one discrete choice experiment, with individuals with long‐term conditions.

Principal Findings

On average, patients preferred a self‐management support intervention that (a) discusses the options available to the patient and make her choose, (b) is individual‐based, (c) face to face (d) with doctor or nurse, (e) at the GP practice, (f) sessions shorter than 1 hour, and (g) occurring annually for two‐third of the sample and monthly for the rest. We found heterogeneity in preferences via three latent classes, with class sizes of 41% (C1), 30% (C2), and 29% (C3). The individuals’ gender [P < 0.05(C1), P < 0.01(C3)], age [P < 0.05(C1), P < 0.05(C2)], type of long‐term condition [P < 0.05(C1), P < 0.01(C3)], and presence of comorbidity [P < 0.01(C1), P < 0.01(C3), P < 0.01(C3)] were able to characterize differences between these latent classes and help understand the heterogeneity of preferences toward the above mentioned features of self‐management support interventions. These findings were then used to profile individuals into different preference groups, for each of whom the most desirable form of self‐management support, one that was more likely to be adopted by the recipient, could be designed.

Conclusions

We identified several factors that could be used to inform a more nuanced self‐management support service design and provision that take into account the recipient's characteristics and preferences.
Inequities in access to VA’S aid and attendance enhanced pension benefit to help Veterans pay for long‐term care
Authors: Thomas Kali S. , Corneau Emily , H. Van Houtven Courtney , Cornell Portia , Aron David , M. Dosa David , M. Allen Susan
Published: February 2021

Objective

To examine characteristics that are associated with receipt of Aid and Attendance (A&A), an enhanced pension benefit for Veterans who qualify on the basis of needing daily assistance, among Veterans who receive pensions.

Data sources

Secondary data analysis of 2016‐2017 national VA administrative data linked with Medicare claims.

Study design

Observational study examining sociodemographic, medical, and healthcare utilization characteristics associated with receipt of A&A among Veterans receiving pension.

Principal findings

In 2017, 9.7% of Veterans with pension newly received the A&A benefit. The probability of receiving A&A among black and Hispanic pensioners was 4.6 percentage points lower than for white pensioners (95%CI = −0.051, −0.042). Married Veterans receiving pension had a 4.4‐percentage point higher probability of receiving A&A (95%CI = 0.039, 0.048). Most indicators of need for assistance (eg, home health utilization, dementia, stroke) were associated with significantly higher probabilities of receiving A&A, with notable exceptions: pensioners with a diagnosis of Post‐Traumatic Stress Disorder (marginal effect = −0.029 95%CI = −0.037, −0.021) or enrolled in Medicaid (marginal effect = −0.053, 95%CI = −0.057, −0.050) had lower probabilities of receiving A&A. Unadjusted and adjusted rates of receiving A&A among Veterans receiving pension varied by VA medical center.

Conclusions

This study identified potential inequities in receipt of the A&A enhanced pension among a sample of Veterans receiving pension. Increased Veteran outreach, provider education, and VA office coordination can potentially reduce inequities in access to this benefit.
Joint Effect of Alcohol Drinking and Environmental Cadmium Exposure on Hypertension in Korean Adults: Analysis of Data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2008 to 2013
Authors: Choi Yun‐Hee , Huh Da‐An , Moon Kyong Whan
Published: February 2021

Background

Hypertension is a common disease found in 1.13 billion adults worldwide. Several animal studies have provided evidence of the joint effect of alcohol drinking and cadmium exposure on hypertension. However, no epidemiologic study has examined the association between these 2 risk factors and hypertension. Therefore, we examined the individual effects of alcohol drinking and cadmium and the joint effect of their coexposure on hypertension in the general population.

Methods

We analyzed data from 8,403 South Korean adults who had been randomly assigned to the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 2008 to 2013. Multiple linear and logistic regression analyses were conducted to estimate the association of alcohol drinking and blood cadmium concentration with blood pressure and the odds ratio (OR) for hypertension.

Results

The weighted prevalence of hypertension and high‐risk drinking was 25.7 and 13.6%, respectively. The weighted geometric mean of blood cadmium levels was 0.94 μg/L (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.93 to 0.96). After adjusting for demographic characteristics, anthropometric measurements, health‐related behaviors, and dietary and disease variables, the OR for hypertension in the group with the high‐risk alcohol drinking was 1.67 (95% CI: 1.34 to 2.06) compared with the group without high‐risk alcohol drinking. When the highest and the lowest blood cadmium quartiles were compared, the OR for hypertension was 1.46 (95% CI: 1.15 to 1.86). The positive joint effect of high‐risk drinking and blood cadmium levels was statistically significant for systolic blood pressure (SBP; p = 0.037) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP; p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Our results show that heavy alcohol drinking had a joint effect with cadmium exposure to increase the risk of hypertension. Future efforts are needed to reduce alcohol drinking and environmental cadmium exposure to prevent hypertension in the general population.
Hog Barns and Neighboring House Prices: Anticipation and Post‐Establishment Impacts
Authors: Lawley Chad
Published: February 2021

The impact of large‐scale hog barns on residential property values is at the forefront of local concerns about livestock development. In this article, I examine the impact of hog barns on house prices in an intensive production region of Manitoba, Canada. Timing of barn establishment and precise locations of houses and barns are used to gain a better understanding of the dynamic impacts of hog barns on house prices. I find that houses within 2 km of a hog barn sell for 5.7% less than similar houses located a little farther away from a barn. Quasi‐myopic specifications indicate that house prices fall by 6.2% up to three years prior to barn establishment, consistent with market anticipation of the future location of hog barns. Accounting for anticipation increases the post‐establishment discount to 8%, suggesting that ignoring anticipation of new barn establishment biases estimated post‐establishment impacts downwards.
A systematic review of the barriers to implementing human papillomavirus vaccination programs in low‐ and middle‐income countries in the Asia‐Pacific
Authors: Ver Abbygail Therese , Notarte Kin Israel , Velasco Jacqueline Veronica , Buac Kevin Miko , Nazareno John , Lozañes J. Alfred , Antonio Dominic , Bacorro Warren
Published: February 2021

Aim: The increasing burden of human papillomavirus (HPV)‐related diseases in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs) could be alleviated by effective HPV vaccination programs. In this systematic review, we examined barriers to introduction, implementation, and/or sustainability of HPV vaccination programs in LMICs in the Asia‐Pacific region (AP‐LMICs).

Methods: A systematic search of literature from the past 10 years (2010‐2019) was performed through PubMed, Cochrane CENTRAL, and Google Scholar. Studies were included if they reported barriers to HPV vaccination in AP‐LMICs. All study designs were included except commentaries and editorials. The journal articles were assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal checklists.

Results: A total of 46 eligible articles were included. An increase in publications was noted from 2010 to 2019. Barriers were diverse and were classified into four levels––government, healthcare providers (HCPs), society, and individual. The top specific barriers that were identified across AP‐LMICs are lack of funding and political support at the government level, lack of awareness among HCP and lack of vaccination programs at the level of health providers, and the perceived cost/benefit ratio for the individual level.

Conclusion: Barriers to successful implementation of HPV vaccination programs differ among Asia‐Pacific LMICs. Policymakers will need to evaluate the relative importance of these barriers in their target areas and population in order to draft an effective dissemination and implementation strategy.
Assessing comfort level with pediatric skin specimens among dermatopathologists and pediatric pathologists: A national cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Enos Tyler , Hughes Connor , Kelley Shannon , Mir Adnan , Rakheja Dinesh , Vandergriff Travis
Published: February 2021

Background

Cutaneous histopathologic diagnoses in children often differ from those in adults. Depending on practice setting, these specimens may be evaluated by dermatopathologists or pediatric pathologists. We sought to determine whether comfort level with pediatric dermatopathology is associated with prior training, pediatric dermatopathology exposure during fellowship, career duration, or specimen subtype.

Methods

We surveyed dermatopathologists and pediatric pathologists practicing in the United States. Training and practice variables were evaluated by multivariable regression for association with comfort level.

Results

Of the 156 respondents, 72% were dermatopathologists (response rate 11.6%) and 28% were pediatric pathologists (response rate 9.3%). Dermatopathologists reported higher comfort overall (P < .001); this was also true for inflammatory dermatoses and melanocytic neoplasms (P < .001). Thirty‐four percent and 75% of dermatopathologists and pediatric pathologists, respectively, reported lower comfort with pediatric skin specimens than their usual cases. Pediatric pathologists were 28% more likely to refer these cases to colleagues. Among dermatopathologists, dermatology‐trained were more comfortable than pathology‐trained colleagues interpreting inflammatory dermatoses (P < .001).

Conclusions

Pathologists' comfort with pediatric dermatopathology varied significantly based upon prior training, career duration, and specimen subtype. These results suggest opportunities for improving education in this domain.
“‘Othering’ with Grace and Courage”
Authors: Kärkkäinen Veli‐Matti
Published: February 2021

This essay considers the complexity and dynamic of seeking to balance an openness to the religious “other” and their beliefs with the honest acknowledgement of real and often deep incommensurability between one's own and the other's deepest convictions. This kind of hospitable and mutually edifying encounter is possible by putting into practice the method of comparative theology which, while urging the faithful in every tradition to establish their own religious identity, also facilitates learning from the other and makes room for sharing one's own testimony. Not only theological and confessional but also autobiographical and life narratives matter in this process.
Aetiologies and factors associated with poor clinical outcomes in rhabdomyolysis: a retrospective cohort study in an Australian trauma centre
Authors: Khu Yin Li , Lewis Benjamin , Blackshaw Lucinda , Tan Suzanne May Quinn , Bayfield Anna , Schneider Hans Gerhard , Liew Danny , Aung Ar Kar
Published: February 2021

Rhabdomyolysis is a clinical syndrome with significant morbidity and mortality that occurs as a result of traumatic and non‐traumatic aetiologies. Acute kidney injury, the need for dialysis, and death, can occur due to rhabdomyolysis. This study explores the aetiologies, clinical outcomes and associated factors for poor outcomes in a cohort of patients with rhabdomyolysis in a tertiary trauma centre in Australia.
Hyphenated study on drying kinetics and ascorbic acid degradation of guava (Psidium guajava L.) fruit
Authors: Rokib Sheak Nuruzzaman , Yeasmen Nushrat , Bhuiyan Md. Hafizur Rahman , Tasmim Tamanna , Aziz Mohammad Gulzarul , Alim Md. Abdul , Islam Md. Nazrul
Published: February 2021

In this study, insights into the effect of process parameters (temperature: 55, 60 and 65°C; thickness: 3, 5, and 8 mm; time: up to 5 hr) on drying (mechanical, solar) kinetics and sorption behavior of guava fruits (variety: local and hybrid) with a focus on the degradation of ascorbic acid (AA) were established for the first time to the best of existing knowledge. The experimental results showed the highest moisture diffusion coefficient and lower activation energy (Ea) of 0.000326 cm2/s and 9.62 kcal/g.mole, respectively for hybrid mature guava variety; whereas, the highest AA degradation rate (0.107 mg AA/hr) with lower Ea (4.3 kcal/g.mole) was obtained for local mature guava variety. Besides, a mixed‐mode solar dryer assisted with a fan seemed to be efficient for drying guava fruit in comparison to drying under direct sunlight. In terms of sorption behavior, both local and hybrid guava followed sigmoidal (type II) shape isotherm where the experimental data were well fitted with Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) model.

Practical application

The drying conditions to have dried guava (Psidium guajava L.) fruit with high ascorbic acid (AA) were investigated. The mathematical model was successfully applied to describe the drying kinetics and degradation of AA of guava fruit. Process parameters and methods influencing drying kinetics and AA degradation rate were detailed. BET model fits well to describe the sorption isotherms of dried guava fruit, in understanding its storage behavior. The information of this study would help in the drying process optimization of guava fruit, in order to make them available in the off‐seasons.
Hypothalamic insulin signalling as a nexus regulating mood and metabolism
Authors: Rawlinson Sasha , Andrews Zane B.
Published: February 2021

Insulin has long been known as a metabolic hormone critical in the treatment of diabetes for its peripheral effects on blood glucose. However, in the last 50 years, insulin has entered the realm of neuroendocrinology and many studies have described its function on insulin receptors in the brain in relation to both metabolic and mood disorders. Indeed, rodent models of impaired insulin signalling show signs of dysregulated energy and glucose homeostasis, as well as anxiety‐like and depressive behaviours. Importantly, many metabolic diseases such as obesity and diabetes increase the risk of developing mood disorders; however, the brain mechanisms underlying the connection between metabolism and mood remain unresolved. We present the current literature on the importance of the insulin receptor with respect to regulating glucose and energy homeostasis and mood‐related behaviours. Specifically, we hypothesise that the insulin receptor in the hypothalamus, classically known as the homeostatic centre of the brain, plays a causal role in linking metabolic and behavioural effects of insulin signalling. In this review, we discuss insulin signalling in the hypothalamus as a critical point of neural integration controlling metabolism and mood.
Demographics and travel history of imported and autochthonous cases of leishmaniosis in dogs in the United States and Canada, 2006 to 2019
Authors: Gin Taylor Estes , Lashnits Erin , Wilson James M. , Breitschwerdt Edward B. , Qurollo Barbara
Published: February 2021

Background

Leishmania infantum infections are reported in foxhounds throughout the United States (US) and Canada, but only rarely in other dog breeds. A seroprevalence report from 2006 documented leishmaniosis in foxhounds (8.9%) tested in the US between 2000 and 2003. All other breeds were seronegative.

Objective

To reexamine demographics and travel history of L. infantum‐infected dogs in the US and Canada, we hypothesize detection of L. infantum in more foxhounds than nonfoxhounds and that infected nonfoxhounds will have traveled to endemic regions.

Animals

A total of 125 dogs positive for L. infantum by immunofluorescent antibody, PCR, or both.

Methods

Retrospective, descriptive study of L. infantum‐infected dogs between 4 January 2006 and 22 May 2019. Travel history and known lineage to foxhounds was collected from questionnaires.

Results

Leishmania infantum was detected in 125 (6.4%) of 1961 dogs tested between 4 January 2006 and 22 May 2019, of which 10 (8%) were foxhounds and 115 (92%) were nonfoxhound breeds. Travel history available for 69 (55%) dogs showed 60 (86.9%) dogs had traveled outside of the US or Canada. Nine (13%) dogs had not traveled outside of the US or Canada, 5 of which were nonfoxhounds.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

The majority of L. infantum cases were detected in nonfoxhounds, many of which had traveled to L. infantum‐endemic countries, and several nonfoxhound breeds had no travel history. Leishmania surveillance should be considered for dogs that return from L. infantum‐endemic regions to monitor emergence of this zoonotic disease in the US and Canada.
Clinical features and outcome of dogs and cats with bidirectional and continuous right‐to‐left shunting patent ductus arteriosus
Authors: Greet Victoria , Bode Elizabeth F. , Dukes‐McEwan Joanna , Oliveira Pedro , Connolly David J. , Sargent Julia
Published: February 2021

Background

Studies describing the clinical progression of animals with reverse patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) are lacking.

Objectives

To describe the signalment, presenting signs, echocardiographic features, and survival in a group of dogs and cats with bidirectional and continuous right‐to‐left PDA.

Animals

Forty‐six client‐owned animals included, comprising 43 dogs and 3 cats with bidirectional or continuous right‐to‐left PDA.

Methods

Retrospective multicenter study. Medical records and echocardiographic findings reviewed from animals diagnosed with bidirectional or continuous right‐to‐left PDA. Impact of ductal morphology, spectral Doppler flow profile, PCV, sildenafil treatment at presentation, sildenafil dose, severity of pulmonary hypertension, general anesthesia with or without surgery and the presence of right‐sided congestive heart failure (R‐CHF) on crude mortality rate were evaluated via Mantel‐Cox log rank comparison of Kaplan‐Meier survival curves. Univariable and multivariable Cox proportional hazards analysis was performed, and hazard ratio (HR) (95% confidence intervals [CI]) was presented.

Results

Hindlimb collapse was the most common presenting sign in dogs (n = 16). Clinical signs in cats were variable. Median survival time was 626 days in dogs (range 1‐3628 days). Dogs with R‐CHF had a shorter median survival time (58 days vs 1839 days,P= .03). Dogs treated with sildenafil at initial presentation survived longer (1839 days vs 302 days,P= .03), which was the only independent predictor of survival (HR 0.35, CI 0.15‐0.86,P= 0.021).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Dogs and cats with reverse PDA have a variable clinical presentation and prognosis. Survival time was longer in animals prescribed sildenafil at diagnosis. Dogs with R‐CHF at presentation have a worse overall outcome.
The use of virtual physician mentoring to enhance home dialysis knowledge and uptake
Authors: Ashley Justin , Abra Graham , Schiller Brigitte , Bennett Paul N. , Mehr Ali Poyan , Bargman Joanne M. , Chan Christopher T.
Published: February 2021

Home dialysis therapies are flexible kidney replacement strategies with documented clinical benefits. While the incidence of end‐stage kidney disease continues to increase globally, the use of home dialysis remains low in most developed countries. Multiple barriers to providing home dialysis have been noted in the published literature. Among known challenges, gaps in clinician knowledge are potentially addressable with a focused education strategy. Recent national surveys in the United States and Australia have highlighted the need for enhanced home dialysis knowledge especially among nephrologists who have recently completed training. Traditional in‐person continuing professional educational programmes have had modest success in promoting home dialysis and are limited by scale and the present global COVID‐19 pandemic. We hypothesize that the use of a ‘Hub and Spoke’ model of virtual home dialysis mentorship for nephrologists based on project ECHO would support home dialysis growth. We review the home dialysis literature, known educational gaps and plausible educational interventions to address current limitations in physician education.
Lifetime genealogical divergence within plants leads to epigenetic mosaicism in the shrub Lavandula latifolia (Lamiaceae)
Authors: Herrera Carlos M. , Bazaga Pilar , Pérez Ricardo , Alonso Conchita
Published: February 2021

Epigenetic mosaicism is a possible source of within‐plant phenotypic heterogeneity, yet its frequency and developmental origin remain unexplored. This study examines whether extant epigenetic heterogeneity within Lavandula latifolia (Lamiaceae) shrubs reflects recent epigenetic modifications experienced independently by different plant parts or, alternatively, it is the cumulative outcome of a steady lifetime process.

Leaf samples from different architectural modules (branch tips) were collected from three L. latifolia plants and characterized epigenetically by global DNA cytosine methylation and methylation state of methylation‐sensitive amplified fragment‐length polymorphism (MS‐AFLP) markers. Epigenetic characteristics of modules were then assembled with information on the branching history of plants. Methods borrowed from phylogenetic research were used to assess genealogical signal of extant epigenetic variation and reconstruct within‐plant genealogical trajectory of epigenetic traits.

Plants were epigenetically heterogeneous, as shown by differences among modules in global DNA methylation and variation in the methylation states of 6 to 8% of MS‐AFLP markers. All epigenetic features exhibited significant genealogical signal within plants. Events of epigenetic divergence occurred throughout the lifespan of individuals and were subsequently propagated by branch divisions.

Internal epigenetic diversification of L. latifolia individuals took place steadily during their development, a process which eventually led to persistent epigenetic mosaicism.
Utility of collaborative GIS for maritime spatial planning: Design and evaluation of Baltic Explorer
Authors: Koski Christian , Rönneberg Mikko , Kettunen Pyry , Eliasen Søren , Hansen Henning Sten , Oksanen Juha
Published: February 2021

Maritime spatial planning (MSP) needs tools to facilitate discussions and manage spatial data in collaborative workshops that involve actors with various backgrounds and expertise. However, the reported use of spatial tools in real‐world MSP is sparse. A better understanding is needed of how geographic information systems (GIS) can effectively support collaboration in MSP. We studied the utility of GIS tools for collaborative MSP in five steps: first, identifying shortcomings in available GIS for supporting collaborative MSP; second, defining requirements for an effective collaborative GIS (CGIS) for MSP; third, designing and developing a prototype CGIS, Baltic Explorer; fourth, demonstrating the system; and fifth, evaluating the system. In a real‐world MSP workshop, we demonstrated that the functionalities of Baltic Explorer can support and facilitate discussions in collaborative work. We also found that more research is needed about the use of spatial data in collaborative MSP and integration of model‐based geospatial analysis into CGIS.
Polycythaemia vera: molecular genetics, diagnostics and therapeutics
Authors: Putter Jeffrey S. , Seghatchian Jerard
Published: February 2021

Polycythaemia vera is one of several classical myeloproliferative neoplasms that may occur in a juvenile onset or late‐onset adult forms. It is linked to specific genetic mutations that cause a deleterious elevation in the patient’s red cell mass. The discourse on genetics includes an exposé on the molecular biology of the disease and how a shared JAK2 V617F mutation can co‐exist among three distinct neoplasms. Concepts of genetics and immunology help define the origin and behaviour of the disease: the tracking of allele burdens of mutations (genetic dosage), the timing or order of acquired mutations, the import of bystander mutations and the onco‐inflammatory response; all theories are invoked to explain the progression of disease severity and potential transformational leukaemia. The World Health Organization’s diagnostic criteria are accessed to focus on the subtleties of the Hb laboratories and sifting through the challenging listing of differential diagnoses that mimic PV, and our report includes an overview of manual and automated phlebotomy (erythrocytapheresis) procedures, enumerating their clinical indications, significance of temporary phlebotomy resistance and optimizing safety/ efficacy, quality and cost. Stratification of low and high‐risk disease distinguishes when to commence chemo‐cytoreductive therapy in the high‐risk patient to prevent thrombotic complications. Drug resistance is circumvented by artfully switching drugs or using novel drug designs.
Reviewer Acknowledgements
Authors: Evelyn Angelia
Published: February 2021

Applied Finance and Accounting [AFA] would like to acknowledge the following reviewers for their assistance with peer review of manuscripts for this issue. Many authors, regardless of whether AFA publishes their work, appreciate the helpful feedback provided by the reviewers. Their comments and suggestions were of great help to the authors in improving the quality of their papers. Each of the reviewers listed below returned at least one review for this issue.Reviewers for Volume 7, Number 1Aderaw Gashayie Ayaliew, Higher institution, EthiopiaAnastasia Kopaneli, University of Patras, GreeceAndrey Kudryavtsev, The Max Stern Yezreel Valley Academic College, IsraelFahri ÖZSUNGUR, Adana Science and Technology University, TurkeyGheorghe Morosan, Stefan Cel Mare University Suceava Romania, RomaniaHaitham Nobanee, Abu Dhabi University, UAEHajar Jahangard , Central Bank of Iran(CBI), IranJayendra S. Gokhale, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, USAMarco Muscettola, Independent researcher, ItalyMawih Kareem Alani, Dhofar University, OmanShahram Fattahi, Razi University,, IranYu Peng Lin, University of Detroit Mercy, USA  Angelia EvelynEditorial AssistantOn behalf of,The Editorial Board of Applied Finance and AccountingRedfame Publishing9450 SW Gemini Dr. #99416Beaverton, OR 97008, USAURL: http://afa.redfame.com
Investigation of a Rotor Blade With Tip Cooling Subject to a Nonuniform Temperature Profile
Authors: Kahveci Harika S.
Published: February 2021

One of the challenges in the design of a high-pressure turbine blade is that a considerable amount of cooling is required so that the blade can survive high temperature levels during engine operation. Another challenge is that the addition of cooling should not adversely affect blade aerodynamic performance. The typical flat tips used in designs have evolved into squealer form that implements rims on the tip, which has been reported in several studies to achieve better heat transfer characteristics as well as to decrease pressure losses at the tip. This paper demonstrates a numerical study focusing on a squealer turbine blade tip that is operating in a turbine environment matching the typical design ratios of pressure, temperature, and coolant blowing. The blades rotate at a realistic rpm and are subjected to a turbine rotor inlet temperature profile that has a nonuniform shape. For comparison, a uniform profile is also considered as it is typically used in computational studies for simplicity. The effect of tip cooling is investigated by implementing seven holes on the tip near the blade pressure side. Results confirm that the temperature profile nonuniformity and the addition of cooling are the drivers for loss generation, and they further increase losses when combined. Temperature profile migration is not pronounced with a uniform profile but shows distinct features with a nonuniform profile for which hot gas migration toward the blade pressure side is observed. The blade tip also receives higher coolant coverage when subject to the nonuniform profile.
The use of nanovibration to discover specific and potent bioactive metabolites that stimulate osteogenic differentiation in mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Hodgkinson Tom , Tsimbouri P. Monica , Llopis-Hernandez Virginia , Campsie Paul , Scurr David , Childs Peter G. , Phillips David , Donnelly Sam , Wells Julia A. , O’Brien Fergal J. , Salmeron-Sanchez Manuel , Burgess Karl , Alexander Morgan , Vassalli Massimo , Oreffo Richard O. C. , Reid Stuart , France David J. , Dalby Matthew J.
Published: February 2021

Osteogenic activity metabolites can be identified in nanovibrational culture and have their specificity and potency enhanced.
Implementing graph-theoretic quantum algorithms on a silicon photonic quantum walk processor
Authors: Qiang Xiaogang , Wang Yizhi , Xue Shichuan , Ge Renyou , Chen Lifeng , Liu Yingwen , Huang Anqi , Fu Xiang , Xu Ping , Yi Teng , Xu Fufang , Deng Mingtang , Wang Jingbo B. , Meinecke Jasmin D. A. , Matthews Jonathan C. F. , Cai Xinlun , Yang Xuejun , Wu Junjie
Published: February 2021

Programmable silicon photonics realizes universal control over quantum walks.
Molecular architecture of the endocytic TPLATE complex
Authors: Yperman Klaas , Wang Jie , Eeckhout Dominique , Winkler Joanna , Vu Lam Dai , Vandorpe Michael , Grones Peter , Mylle Evelien , Kraus Michael , Merceron Romain , Nolf Jonah , Mor Eliana , De Bruyn Pieter , Loris Remy , Potocký Martin , Savvides Savvas N. , De Rybel Bert , De Jaeger Geert , Van Damme Daniël , Pleskot Roman
Published: February 2021

Eukaryotic cells rely on endocytosis to regulate their plasma membrane proteome and lipidome. Most eukaryotic groups, except fungi and animals, have retained the evolutionary ancient TSET complex as an endocytic regulator. Unlike other coatomer complexes, structural insight into TSET is lacking. Here, we reveal the molecular architecture of plant TSET [TPLATE complex (TPC)] using an integrative structural approach. We identify crucial roles for specific TSET subunits in complex assembly and membrane interaction. Our data therefore generate fresh insight into the differences between the hexameric TSET in
Dictyostelium
and the octameric TPC in plants. Structural elucidation of this ancient adaptor complex represents the missing piece in the coatomer puzzle and vastly advances our functional as well as evolutionary insight into the process of endocytosis.
A dynein-associated photoreceptor protein prevents ciliary acclimation to blue light
Authors: Kutomi Osamu , Yamamoto Ryosuke , Hirose Keiko , Mizuno Katsutoshi , Nakagiri Yuuhei , Imai Hiroshi , Noga Akira , Obbineni Jagan Mohan , Zimmermann Noemi , Nakajima Masako , Shibata Daisuke , Shibata Misa , Shiba Kogiku , Kita Masaki , Kigoshi Hideo , Tanaka Yui , Yamasaki Yuya , Asahina Yuma , Song Chihong , Nomura Mami , Nomura Mamoru , Nakajima Ayako , Nakachi Mia , Yamada Lixy , Nakazawa Shiori , Sawada Hitoshi , Murata Kazuyoshi , Mitsuoka Kaoru , Ishikawa Takashi , Wakabayashi Ken-ichi , Kon Takahide , Inaba Kazuo
Published: February 2021

Light-responsive regulation of ciliary motility is known to be conducted through modulation of dyneins, but the mechanism is not fully understood. Here, we report a novel subunit of the two-headed f/I1 inner arm dynein, named DYBLUP, in animal spermatozoa and a unicellular green alga. This subunit contains a BLUF (sensors of blue light using FAD) domain that appears to directly modulate dynein activity in response to light. DYBLUP (dynein-associated BLUF protein) mediates the connection between the f/I1 motor domain and the tether complex that links the motor to the doublet microtubule.
Chlamydomonas
lacking the DYBLUP ortholog shows both positive and negative phototaxis but becomes acclimated and attracted to high-intensity blue light. These results suggest a mechanism to avoid toxic strong light via direct photoregulation of dyneins.
Human airway mast cells proliferate and acquire distinct inflammation-driven phenotypes during type 2 inflammation
Authors: Dwyer Daniel F. , Ordovas-Montanes Jose , Allon Samuel J. , Buchheit Kathleen M. , Vukovic Marko , Derakhshan Tahereh , Feng Chunli , Lai Juying , Hughes Travis K. , Nyquist Sarah K. , Giannetti Matthew P. , Berger Bonnie , Bhattacharyya Neil , Roditi Rachel E. , Katz Howard R. , Nawijn Martijn C. , Berg Marijn , van den Berge Maarten , Laidlaw Tanya M. , Shalek Alex K. , Barrett Nora A. , Boyce Joshua A.
Published: February 2021

Mast cells in type 2 airway inflammation exhibit heterogeneous inflammation-associated phenotypes and proliferate in situ.