bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Moresa: confronting risks in a highly uncertain environment
Authors: Perez Perez Juan Ernesto
Published: December 2022

Learning outcomes

At the end of the case students will be able to:

1. Relate risk as one of the 12 principles in project management contemplated in the international standards of the PMBOK Seventh Edition guide.

2. Determine high-level risks by articulating the WBS and RBS of a construction project.

3. Perform a qualitative and quantitative analysis of the probability and impact of risks through the heat map tool and the Expected Monetary Value (EMV) technique.

4. Propose the different response strategies contemplated in the risk management through the formulation of a response and contingency plan.

Case overview/synopsis

MORESA S.A.S was a family company founded in 1994, whose value proposition focused on construction and permanent advice for the execution of innovative and contemporary projects with more than 27 years of experience in the city of San José de Cucuta, department of Norte de Santander, Colombia. The objective of the case is to Relate risk as one of the 12 principles in project management contemplated in the international standards of the PMBOK Seventh Edition guide; Determine high-level risks by articulating the WBS and RBS of a construction project; Perform a qualitative and quantitative analysis of the probability and impact of risks through the heat map tool and the Expected Monetary Value (EMV) technique and propose the different response strategies contemplated in the risk management through the formulation of a response and contingency plan. The teaching case is designed for academic programs in areas of knowledge of civil engineering, architecture and at postgraduate level such as: Master’s in civil engineering, Master’s in risk management, Master in project management or MBA. For this case, an expert judgment was developed with professionals belonging to different areas of knowledge. Likewise, secondary information was collected from the organization's strategic documents and the analogous estimation through the historical records of the project portfolio developed by the construction company. Finally, the case, classified in the Built Environment, a challenge that project managers must face in VUCA environment through risk management.

Complexity academic level

The teaching case is designed for academic programs in areas of knowledge of civil engineering, architecture and at postgraduate level such as: Master’s in civil engineering, Master’s in risk management, Master’s in project management or MBA. In the modules of risk management, project management, international standards, the case guides the applicability of methods and artifacts used in risk management considering the process identification, quantitative, qualitative analysis, and development of response strategies and contingency plans.

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CSS 2: Built Environment.
Antecedents and intervention mechanisms of institutional distrust of P2P accommodations during COVID-19 in China
Authors: Fu Shixuan , Yang Jingjing , Su Linlin
Published: December 2022

Purpose

COVID-19 affects the peer-to-peer (P2P) accommodation industry. With regard to prospect theory, individuals’ negative emotions, such as institutional distrust, are easily evoked and impede consumption intention in an environment of permeating uncertainty and risks. While existing research indicates the negative effects of institutional distrust, scant research has explored its antecedents and intervention mechanisms. This study thus aims to unveil the influencing factors and explore mitigating mechanisms of customers’ institutional distrust of P2P accommodations.

Design/methodology/approach

Online reviews data were used to identify the underlying critical issues. The authors developed a model to depict how institutional distrust is formed under the boundary condition of subjective norm by the results. The model was verified using a questionnaire survey. Finally, in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted to ensure its robustness.

Findings

The external environment and internal platform effectiveness are two critical aspects affecting institutional distrust of P2P accommodations. The external environment influences institutional distrust through perceived threat, explaining the formation mechanism of customers’ institutional distrust through customers’ internal psychology. Furthermore, the authors found subjective norm moderating the effect of perceived threat on customers’ institutional distrust.

Research limitations/implications

This is one of the first studies, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, to explore institutional distrust of P2P accommodations after COVID-19. The finding contributes to studies on P2P accommodation by uncovering the contingent role of subjective norm in influencing customers’ institutional distrust.

Originality/value

This is a pioneering study that explores the antecedents and mitigating mechanisms of institutional distrust of P2P accommodations during the new normal of COVID-19.
A systematic inquiry of energy management in smart grid by using SAP-LAP and IRP approach
Authors: Pal Chandra , Shankar Ravi
Published: December 2022

Purpose

The need to address energy management as a significant innovation in the smart grid is emphasized to enable a more effective penetration of renewable energy to achieve energy savings and CO2 emission reductions. The purpose of this study is to propose a holistic, flexible decision framework for energy management in a smart grid.

Design/methodology/approach

According to the situation actor process−learning action performance (SAP−LAP) model, the variables have been identified after a comprehensive analysis of the literature and consideration of the opinions of domain experts. However, the importance of each SAP−LAP variable is not the same in real practice. Hence, focus on these variables should be given based on their importance, and to measure this importance, an interpretive ranking process based ranking method is used in this study. This helps to allocate proportionate resource to each SAP−LAP variable to make a better decision for the energy management of the smart grid.

Findings

This study ranked five actors based on their priorities for energy management in a smart grid: top management, generator and retailor, consumers, government policy and regulation and technology vendors. Furthermore, actions are also prioritized with respect to performance.

Practical implications

The SAP−LAP model conveys information about the state of energy management in India to actors who may proceed or manage the flow of electricity. Additionally, this study aids in detecting vulnerabilities in the current energy generation, transmission and distribution technique. The synthesis of SAP results in LAP, which assists in recommending improvement actions learned from the current situation, actors and processes.

Originality/value

The SAP−LAP model is a revolutionary approach for examining the current state of energy management in a unified framework that can guide decision-making in conflicting situations, significantly the contradictory nature of India’s renewable energy and power sectors.
Macro environment determinants affecting the availability of artemisinin-based combination therapies in Uganda
Authors: Oluka Nagitta Pross , Mkansi Marcia
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs) have been developed to treat uncomplicated malaria. However, scanty studies exist to inform the role of macro factors in explaining the nonavailability of ACT in developing countries. Therefore, this paper aims to evaluate the different macro-environment factors affecting the availability of ACTs in the public hospital setting.

Design/methodology/approach

This study applied a quantitative methodological approach and structural equation modeling (SEM) to test hypotheses statistically. SEM examines linear causal relationships among variables while accounting for measurement error. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was used to assess model reliability. CFA and SEM were used to determine the shared variance-covariance of variables, define the latent construct and provide a more precise way to account for the error variances associated with the variables, which, if untested, could lead to biased parameter estimates. This was guided by the data collected from 40 general public hospitals with 283 respondents.

Findings

This study’s results support a model for promoting social-cultural, technological and legal factors. The availability of ACTs is significantly affected by legal factors. Improving legal aspects by a unit can enhance ACT availability by 0.59. Political factors scored the least, and they do not influence the availability of malaria drugs.

Research limitations/implications

The design was quantitative and cross-sectional. Future research could be longitudinal with a mixed-method approach and consider other external stakeholders.

Practical implications

Reducing the impact of the nonavailability of antimalarial drugs in general public hospitals requires a holistic concerted and coordinated supply chain approach that tackles the political, economic, social-cultural norms, technological and legal factors.

Originality/value

The authors develop and test a model using macro factors: political, economic, social, cultural, technological and legal factors. This model is relevant for many developing countries to supply chain coordination perpetually experiencing medicine shortages.
Comparison of dimples and grooves based on friction and leakage properties of textured mechanical seals
Authors: Wang Xiuying , Chen Yu , Ding Kai , Yu Chengtao
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This study aims to obtain a design scheme of the surface texture on mechanical seal with lower friction and leakage by comparing two common texture types: dimples and grooves.

Design/methodology/approach

An optimal free-form shape and an optimal circular shape were chosen by multi-objective optimization, and two types of grooves with different directions were chosen by a series of experiments. Then, the optimal free-form dimple, the optimal circular dimple, the groove perpendicular to the direction of movement (hereafter called groove-1) and the groove angled at 60° to the direction of movement (hereafter called groove-2) were compared by experiments under different loads.

Findings

The optimal free-form dimple shows a better performance in terms of a lower coefficient of friction (COF) and a lower leakage than the other shapes, especially for the high speed and low load conditions. The reduction rate of COF is up to 37.5%, and the leakage rate is reduced by about 12.5%. The dimples have a lower leakage than the grooves. The groove angled at 60° to the direction of movement is easier to pump the oil into the interface of the sealing face, leading to a lower friction but a higher leakage.

Originality/value

This study provides a feasible surface texture design scheme for improving the combination performance of mechanical seals.
Rethinking the university: a case study
Authors: Davis Alan R. , Jhangiani Rajiv , Purvey Diane
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This study aims to describe and illuminate the ways in which Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) – an urban, undergraduate institution with a strong focus on teaching, learning and related research and scholarship, and a substantial international student population – adapted to pandemic conditions in 2020 in an effort to meet community and pedagogical priorities, institutional/legal responsibilities and strategic goals.

Design/methodology/approach

Three institutional leaders at KPU draw together their respective insights and experiences, reflecting on how governance, pedagogy and operations were impacted by COVID-19.

Findings

After two years of continuous operation during the COVID-19 pandemic, and with the strong support of its learners and the faculty, KPU has undergone significant pedagogical and technological shifts to become a multi-modal university for study, teaching and administration.

Research limitations/implications

This is a “practitioner paper” with a practical focus on institutional leadership and adaptation in a period of rapid adjustment. It is more of an accounting and reflection piece than a critical analysis.

Practical implications

It offers post-secondary leaders’ insights into ways in which institutional values and community needs inform policy-making, operations and innovation in education.

Social implications

KPU’s domestic and international student constituencies are complex and required unconventional post-secondary strategies regarding faculty autonomy and growth, de-colonization and inclusion.

Originality/value

KPU has a distinctive mandate in British Columbia and its commitment to experiential learning – typically associated with hands-on education – presented unusual challenges for delivery. While research-and-teaching universities were tested by COVID-19, their tests were largely alike. KPU’s experience illustrates what practical- and teaching-focused institutions confronted.
Covid, climate and comparison: A possibility for predictive analogy
Authors: Davidov Veronica
Published: December 2022

This article explores how public responses to the Covid‐19 pandemic could potentially help us understand the responses to the climate crisis and its environmental catastrophes. Public responses to the pandemic, in turn, also potentially help us understand the responses to the climate crisis and its environmental catastrophes. How do these compare through our epistemological lenses? Can the various Covid‐19 responses function as a projection of future responses to the destabilizing climate change we are beginning to experience? Outlined are two broad conceptual overlaps: risk and epistemic dissensus. Could this become the basis of a predictive analogy to help inform anthropological research into future dimensions of climate change?
LINC02323 facilitates development of lung squamous cell carcinoma by miRNA sponge and RBP dysregulation and links to poor prognosis
Authors: Wu Kuan‐Li , Tsai Ying‐Ming , Huang Yung‐Chi , Wu Yu‐Yuan , Chang Chao‐Yuan , Liu Yu‐Wei , Hsu Ya‐Ling , Hung Jen‐Yu
Published: December 2022

Background

The poor outcome of patients with lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC) highlights the importance of the identification of novel effective prognostic markers and therapeutic targets. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have generally been considered to serve important roles in tumorigenesis and the development of various types of cancer, including LUSC.

Methods

Here, we aimed to investigate the role of LINC02323 in LUSC and its potential mechanisms by performing comprehensive bioinformatic analyses.

Results

LINC02323 was elevated and positively associated with unfavorable prognosis of LUSC patients. LINC02323 exerted oncogenic function by competitively binding to miR‐1343‐3p and miR‐6783‐3p, thereby upregulating L1CAM expression. Indeed, we also determined that LINC02323 could interact with the RNA‐binding protein DDX3X, which regulates various stages of RNA expression and processing.

Conclusion

Taken together, we identified that LINC02323 and its indirect target L1CAM can act as novel biomarkers for determining the prognosis of patients with LUSC and thus deserves further study.
Non‐small cell lung cancer with EGFR (L858R and E709X) and CNNB1 mutations responded to afatinib
Authors: Kunishige Michihiro , Ichihara Seiya , Kadota Naoki , Okano Yoshio , Machida Hisanori , Hatakeyama Nobuo , Naruse Keishi , Shinohara Tsutomu , Takeuchi Eiji
Published: December 2022

Lung cancer with complex epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and CTNNB1 comutations is rare, and the efficacy of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) is generally poor. Here, we encountered a lung cancer patient with complex EGFR (L858R and E709X) and CTNNB1 comutations who successfully responded to afatinib. A 78‐year‐old woman visited our hospital with a cough and bloody sputum that had worsened over the past year. She had multiple mass shadows in both lungs and nodular shadows in the bronchi. The patient was diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma cT4N3M1c stage IVB. A genetic analysis of the primary tumor using the Oncomine Dx target test multi‐CDx system revealed positivity for EGFR (L858R and E709X) and CTNNB1 mutations. The expression of programmed death ligand 1 (22C3 clones) in tumor cells was negative by immunostaining. The patient was treated with afatinib as first‐line therapy and achieved clinical improvement and a partial response and is continuing treatment 1 year later. Case reports of lung cancer patients with EGFR/CTNNB1 comutations are rare, and TKIs are not considered to be effective. We herein present the first case report of lung cancer with the co‐occurrence of uncommon and complex EGFR (L858R and E709X) and CTNNB1 mutations that was successfully treated with afatinib.
The role of active geological structures in forming hot springs in Ramsar, Iran
Authors: Alizadeh Hasan
Published: December 2022

The hot springs of Ramsar, Iran are located at the northern zone of the Central Alborz Mountain Range along the Caspian Fault. Ramsar is a well‐known area with amongst the world's highest levels of natural radiation. Due to the local geology, which includes high levels of radium in rocks, soils, and groundwater, Ramsar residents are also exposed to high levels of alpha activity in the form of ingested radium. Nine springs were selected from the hot springs of Ramsar for this research, and water samples were tested to find the amount of dissolved materials and elements. Analysis of the results suggests that the hot springs of Ramsar originated from the sea. The results indicate that coincident with subduction of the southern Caspian basin and obduction of the Central Iranian crust over the southern Caspian crust, saline seawater reaches fracture zones of the Caspian Fault where it is heated due to mixing with radioactive materials and release of radon as a result of activity of the faults and its decay into radium. Then it migrates along the Caspian thrust faults and forms hot springs originated from regional surface waters of Ramsar. Those hot springs located next to thrust faults were the result of collision, and the origin of neighbouring cold springs is karst.
Immunovascular microenvironment in relation to prognostic heterogeneity of WNT/β‐catenin‐activated hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Matsuda Kosuke , Kurebayashi Yutaka , Masugi Yohei , Yamazaki Ken , Ueno Akihisa , Tsujikawa Hanako , Ojima Hidenori , Kitago Minoru , Itano Osamu , Shinoda Masahiro , Abe Yuta , Sakamoto Michiie
Published: December 2022

Aim

WNT/β‐catenin‐activated hepatocellular carcinoma (W/B subclass HCC) is considered a molecularly homogeneous entity and has been linked to resistance to immunotherapy. However, recent studies have indicated possible heterogeneity in the immunovascular microenvironment in this subclass. We set out to test the hypothesis that specific immunovascular features might stratify W/B subclass HCCs into tumors having distinct aggressive natures.

Methods

In this study, we analyzed 352 resected HCCs including 78 immunohistochemically defined W/B subclass HCCs. The density of tumor‐infiltrating CD3+ T cells and the area ratio of vessels encapsulating tumor clusters (VETC) were calculated on tissue specimens. The gene expressions of angiogenic factors were measured by quantitative reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction. Disease‐free survival (DFS) was assessed using multivariable Cox regression analyses.

Results

The T‐cell density of W/B subclass HCCs was regionally heterogenous within tumor tissues, and focally reduced T‐cell density was observed in areas with VETC. VETC‐positivity (defined as VETC area ratio greater than 1%) was inversely associated with T‐cell infiltration in both W/B subclass and non‐W/B subclass HCCs. Fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) gene expression was higher in W/B subclass than in non‐W/B subclass HCCs. The VETC‐positivity and low T‐cell density correlated with increased expression of FGF2 in W/B subclass HCCs. Additionally, VETC‐positive HCCs showed significantly shorter DFS in W/B subclass HCCs.

Conclusions

In conclusion, the immune and vascular microenvironments are interrelated and are also correlated with clinicopathological heterogeneity in W/B subclass HCC. These results could inform clinical practice and translational research on the development of therapeutic stratification of HCCs.
Treatments of orange‐spotted grouper (Epinephelus coioides) against Cryptocaryon irritans with •OH, ClO2 or HCHO: Survival, physiological and histological response
Authors: Zhong Ziqing , Wu Xiping , Bai Mindong , Huang Xiaodian , Zheng Qilin , Ai Chunxiang
Published: December 2022

Cryptocaryon irritans causes one of the most serious diseases in various wild and cultured marine fish, leading to mass mortality and economic loss. In this study, hydroxyl radical (•OH) solution produced by strong ionization discharge combined with water jet cavitation effect was injected into orange‐spotted grouper (Epinephelus coioides) aquaculture tanks for C. irritans control. The results showed that all C. irritans theronts were inactivated by •OH solution at concentrations of 0.5 mg/L within 2 min. •OH could induce alteration of shape, the absence of motility and macronucleus dispersion in theronts. A possible explanation was that the macronucleus of C. irritans might be damaged by •OH; as a result, its metabolism and life activities were disturbed. The •OH treatment increased the survival rate of E. coioides challenged with C. irritans from 64.7 ± 8.0% (mean ± SD) to 100% and reduced their infection intensity significantly. Stress response biomarkers such as malonaldehyde, glutathione, glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase levels in the gills of E. coioides at different time points were analysed. The SOD activity in the •OH group first decreased and then recovered to the initial level at the end of the experiment. The other stress response biomarkers had no significant difference from that in the uninfected control group after •OH treatment. Additionally, the gill of E. coioides in the •OH group exhibited slight and reversible transformation compared with the uninfected control group. Compared with •OH treatment, chlorine dioxide and formalin treatment reduced the survival rate, induced oxidative damage and changed the histological gill structure in E. coioides. In conclusion, •OH could be applied effectively to control C. irritans infection without affecting the normal physiological condition of E. coioides.
Truly dorsostable runners: Vertebral mobility in rhinoceroses, tapirs, and horses
Authors: Belyaev Ruslan I. , Kuznetsov Alexander N. , Prilepskaya Natalya E.
Published: December 2022

The vertebral column is a hallmark of vertebrates; it is the structural basis of their body and the locomotor apparatus in particular. Locomotion of any vertebrate animal in its typical habitat is directly associated with functional adaptations of its vertebrae. This study is the first large‐scale analysis of mobility throughout the presacral region of the vertebral column covering a majority of extant odd‐toed ungulates from 6 genera and 15 species. In this study, we used a previously developed osteometry‐based method to calculate available range of motion. We quantified all three directions of intervertebral mobility: sagittal bending (SB), lateral bending (LB), and axial rotation (AR). The cervical region in perissodactyls was found to be the most mobile region of the presacral vertebral column in LB and SB. Rhinoceroses and tapirs are characterized by the least mobile necks in SB among odd‐toed and even‐toed ungulates. Equidae are characterized by very mobile necks, especially in LB. The first intrathoracic joint (T1–T2) in Equidae and Tapiridae is characterized by significantly increased mobility in the sagittal plane compared to the typical thoracic joints and is only slightly less mobile than typical cervical joints. The thoracolumbar part of the vertebral column in odd‐toed ungulates is very stiff. Perissodactyls are characterized by frequent fusions of vertebrae with each other with complete loss of mobility. The posterior half of the thoracic region in perissodactyls is characterized by especially stiff intervertebral joints in the SB direction. This is probably associated with hindgut fermentation in perissodactyls: the sagittal stiffness of the posterior thoracic region of the vertebral column is able to passively support the hindgut heavily loaded with roughage. Horses are known as a prime example of a dorsostable galloper among mammals. However, based on SB in the lumbosacral part of the backbone, equids appear to be the least dorsostable among extant perissodactyls; the cumulative SB in equids and tapirs is as low as in the largest representatives of artiodactyls, while in Rhinocerotidae it is even lower representing the minimum across all odd‐toed and even‐toed ungulates. Morphological features of small Paleogene ancestors of rhinoceroses and equids indicate that dorsostability is a derived feature of perissodactyls and evolved convergently in the three extant families.
A Modified Endoscopic Technique with Three Incisions for Rockwood Types III and V Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocation
Authors: Huang Jianming , Huang Danlei , Wang Jun , Ye Zhiyang , Liu Haoyuan
Published: December 2022

Objective

Acromioclavicular joint dislocation is one of the most common shoulder injuries in young men. With the advancement of minimally invasive technology, arthroscopy of acromioclavicular joint dislocation has been recognized for its good curative effect. This study aimed to explore the technical details and clinical efficacy of a modified minimally invasive endoscopic treatment for acromioclavicular joint dislocation.

Methods

Clinical data of patients receiving the three‐incision endoscopic treatment were retrospectively reviewed between July 2013 and July 2019. A total of 72 patients with acromioclavicular joint dislocation of Rockwood type III (n = 42) and type V (n = 30) were included in this study. Postoperative routine radiography was performed to evaluate acromioclavicular joint reduction and fixation. In addition, functional recovery of the shoulder joint was assessed using the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) and Constant–Murley scores. Differences between the preoperative and postoperative data were compared using paired t‐tests.

Results

All patients underwent loop plate elastic fixation under endoscopy during 24 to 48 months of follow‐up. Postoperative radiography showed that the acromioclavicular joint achieved anatomical reduction. The ASES score (91.1 ± 4.2) was significantly improved compared to the preoperative ASES score (62.4 ± 3.1) (t = 46.65, P < 0.0001). The Constant–Murley score (93.1 ± 4.6) was also significantly higher than that before the operation (40.7 ± 6.4) (t = 56.41, P < 0.0001). No postoperative complications occurred. During follow‐up, four patients had mild acromioclavicular joint degeneration but no obvious pain symptoms.

Conclusion

The modified three‐incision endoscopic technique optimizes the surgical incision, reduces trauma, is minimally invasive, and provides rapid rehabilitation with satisfactory clinical outcomes.
Anatomical Imaging Study on Uneven Settlement of the Proximal Tibia
Authors: Wang Zhijie , Zheng Yi , Meng Decheng , Li Handi , Ji Chenni , Wang Juan
Published: December 2022

Objective

Uneven settlement of the proximal tibia significantly contributes to the onset and progression of medial compartment knee OA; however, the specific location and variations of proximal tibial deformity remain unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the effects of the anatomic morphology of different tibial regions on proximal tibial vara and proximal tibial microstructural changes with age in both sexes to reveal the pattern of uneven settlement of the proximal tibia.

Methods

In this retrospective study, we reviewed the radiographs of 414 patients (789 legs) between May and September 2021. The medial proximal tibial angle (MPTA) and four anatomic angles of the tibia (i.e., the tibial plateau‐epiphyseal line [PT‐EL] angle, epiphyseal line‐tibial platform [EL‐PF] angle, epiphyseal axis inclination angle [EAIA], and subepiphyseal axis inclination angle [SAIA]) were measured. The effect of each angle on MPTA and their changes with age in both sexes were investigated using Pearson's correlation coefficient and multiple linear regression.

Results

In females, PT‐EL angle, EL‐PF angle, and SAIA negatively correlated with MPTA (r = −0.325, −0.246, and −0.502; p < 0.05), and EAIA positively correlated with MPTA (r = 0.099, p < 0.05). Regression analysis showed that the correlations between MPTA and PT‐EL angle, EL‐PF angle, and SAIA were significant (β = −1.003, −0.013, and −0.971; adjusted R2 = 0.979). Furthermore, MPTA negatively correlated with age (r = −0.202, p < 0.05); PT‐EL angle and EAIA positively correlated with age (r = 0.237 and 0.142, p < 0.05). Regression analysis showed that only the correlation between PT‐EL angle and age was significant (β = 5.635, p < 0.05). In males, PT‐EL angle, EL‐PF angle, and SAIA negatively correlated with MPTA (r = −0.270, −0.267, and −0.533; p < 0.05), and EAIA positively correlated with MPTA (r = 0.135, p < 0.05). Regression analysis showed that the correlations between MPTA and PT‐EL angle, EL‐PF angle, and SAIA were significant (β = −0.992, −0.017, and −0.958; adjusted R2 = 0.970). However, there was no significant correlation between age and any of the measured angles (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

Proximal tibial vara is affected by the anatomic morphology of the epiphyseal and subepiphyseal regions. In females, the uneven settlement of the epiphysis progresses with age and may be responsible for dynamic varus deformity of the proximal tibia.
Self‐induced panniculitis in adolescence: Three cases and review of the literature
Authors: Lie Cheryl J. L. , Marimuttu Vicknesan J. , Wee Lynette W. Y. , Ho Valerie P. Y. , Gan Emily Y. , Alagappan Uma , Wong Sharon M. Y. , Koh Mark J. A.
Published: December 2022

Self‐induced trauma is a rare cause of panniculitis in adolescents and may be associated with undiagnosed underlying psychological conditions. The condition often poses a diagnostic challenge as patients usually present with non‐specific signs and symptoms, and often a concealed history of self‐induced trauma. Here, we present three adolescent patients with self‐induced traumatic panniculitis. All three patients were repeatedly admitted with non‐specific cutaneous lesions as well as multiple somatic complaints. After extensive evaluation to exclude organic causes, psychiatric assessment eventually revealed underlying psychosomatic disorders as a cause of the self‐induced trauma.
SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA positive pediatric organ donors: A case report
Authors: Clark Jonna D. , Albers Erin L. , Albert Jesselle E. , Berkman Emily R. , Englund Janet A. , Farris Reid W. D. , Johnson Beth A. , Lewis‐Newby Mithya , McGuire John , Rogers Meg , Thompson Holly M. , Wagner Thor A. , Wells Candy , Yanay Ofer , Zerr Danielle M. , Limaye Ajit P.
Published: December 2022

Background

Preliminary evidence suggests that non‐lung organ donation from resolved, asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic SARS‐CoV‐2 infected adults may be safe. However, several biological aspects of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection differ in children and the risk for transmission and outcomes of recipients from pediatric donors with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection are not well described.

Methods

We report two unvaccinated asymptomatic pediatric non‐lung organ deceased donors who tested positive for SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA by RT‐PCR. Donor One unexpectedly had SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA detected in nasopharyngeal swab and plasma specimens at autopsy despite several negative tests (upper and lower respiratory tract) in the days prior to organ recovery. Donor Two had SARS‐CoV‐ 2 RNA detected in multiple nasopharyngeal swabs but not lower respiratory tract specimens (endotracheal aspirate and bronchoalveolar lavage) during routine surveillance prior to organ recovery and was managed with remdesivir and monoclonal antibodies prior to organ recovery.

Results

Two hearts, two livers and four kidneys were successfully transplanted into seven recipients. No donor to recipient transmission of SARS‐CoV‐2 was observed and graft function of all organs has remained excellent for up to 7 months of followup.

Conclusions

Due to the persistent gap between organ availability and the number of children waiting for transplants, deceased pediatric patients with non‐disseminated SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, isolated to upper and/or lower respiratory tract, should be considered as potential non‐lung organ donors.
Emergency care for youth who experience suicidality and identify as LGBTQ+
Authors: Schultz Theresa Ryan , Zoucha Rick , Sekula Kathleen , Abrams Bishop Allyson D.
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Suicide is a leading cause of death in children; youth who identify as LGBTQ+ are at an exponentially higher risk of suicide. The purpose of this study was to explore the lived experiences of youth who identify as LGBTQ+ and sought emergency care for suicidality as adolescents.

Methods

Hermeneutics phenomenology is the research method used in this study. Youth who identify as LGBTQ+ and sought emergency treatment for suicidality when they were adolescents were recruited; fifteen youth enrolled. Individuals ranged in age from 20 to 25 years. Participants described their gender identity as male, female, non‐binary, transgender female, and their sexual orientation as: female, demisexual, bisexual, gay, homosexual, lesbian, queer, asexual, and transgender.

Results

This study establishes that youth who identify as LGBTQ+ seeking emergency care for suicidality value: coping and control, acceptance from others and self, communicating with me about me, and moving beyond danger and distress. Lack of psychological safety—from the emic perspective—emerged as a critical finding.

Conclusion

This research has strong implications for public health, policy, and research. Future research must seek to understand ways in which psychological safety is assessed in healthcare if we are to more deeply understand and effectively address the impact on health equity.
Prosthodontic restoration of a COVID‐19 associated mucormycosis defect: A clinical report
Authors: Artopoulou Ioli Ioanna , Kalfarentzos Evangelos , Polyzois Gregory , Perisanidis Christos
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic brought the clinical practice of dentistry and prosthodontics at the threshold of a new era, due to the increasing prevalence of a relative rare condition normally affecting the immunocompromised patients.

Aim

The aim of this clinical case report is to briefly describe the etiopathogenesis, the surgical and prosthodontic management of this evolving medical condition emphasizing the emerging role of the maxillofacial prosthodontist in restoring the patients' well‐being.

Methods and Results

The surgical and prosthodontic rehabilitation of a COVID‐19 infected patient with a mucormycotic lesion of the maxilla will be presented.

Conclusion

The role of the maxillofacial prosthodontist is important in alleviating this severe COVID‐19 associated morbidity.
Identification of the novel HLA alleles: HLA‐A*30:201, HLA‐B*51:364 and HLA‐C*08:241
Authors: Ananeva Anastasiia , Sergeeva Iuliia , Ryzhkova Tatiana , Gaifullina Raushania , Shagimardanova Elena
Published: December 2022

Three novel HLA alleles HLA‐A*30:201, HLA‐B*51:364 and HLA‐C*08:241 alleles detected during routine next generation sequencing.
Combined Effects of Hypocapnic Hyperventilation and Hypoxia on Exercise Performance and Metabolic Responses During the Wingate Anaerobic Test
Authors: Dobashi Kohei , Katagiri Akira , Fujii Naoto , Nishiyasu Takeshi
Published: December 2022

Hypoxia during supramaximal exercise reduces aerobic metabolism with a compensatory increase in anaerobic metabolism without affecting exercise performance. A similar response is elicited by preexercise voluntary hypocapnic hyperventilation, but it remains unclear whether hypocapnic hyperventilation and hypoxia additively reduce aerobic metabolism and increase anaerobic metabolism during supramaximal exercise. To address that issue, 12 healthy subjects (8 males and 4 females) performed the 30-second Wingate anaerobic test (WAnT) after (1) spontaneous breathing in normoxia (control, ∼21% fraction of inspired O2 [FiO2]), (2) voluntary hypocapnic hyperventilation in normoxia (hypocapnia, ∼21% FiO2), (3) spontaneous breathing in hypoxia (hypoxia, ∼11% FiO2), or (4) voluntary hypocapnic hyperventilation in hypoxia (combined, ∼11% FiO2). Mean power output during the 30-second WAnT was similar among the control (561 [133] W), hypocapnia (563 [140] W), hypoxia (558 [131] W), and combined (560 [133] W) trials (P = .778). Oxygen uptake during the 30-second WAnT was lower in the hypocapnia (1523 [318] mL/min), hypoxia (1567 [300] mL/min), and combined (1203 [318] mL/min) trials than in the control (1935 [250] mL/min) trial, and the uptake in the combined trial was lower than in the hypocapnia or hypoxia trial (all P < .001). Oxygen deficit, an index of anaerobic metabolism, was higher in the hypocapnia (38.4 [7.3] mL/kg), hypoxia (37.8 [6.8] mL/kg), and combined (40.7 [6.9] mL/kg) trials than in the control (35.0 [6.8] mL/kg) trial, and the debt was greater in the combined trial than in the hypocapnia or hypoxia trial (all P < .003). Our results suggest that voluntary hypocapnic hyperventilation and hypoxia additively reduce aerobic metabolism and increase anaerobic metabolism without affecting exercise performance during the 30-second WAnT.
The endosome as engineer
Authors: Zanellati Maria Clara , Cohen Sarah
Published: December 2022

Endosomes use lipid signaling to shape organelles according to nutrient levels
Hard, not easy
Authors: Thorp H. Holden
Published: December 2022

In a speech at Rice University in September 1962, US President John F. Kennedy announced plans for human spaceflight to the Moon by saying, “We choose to go to the Moon in this decade and do the other things, not because they are easy, but because they are hard.” These words marked a time when trust in and respect for science were high, and when big questions about the workings of nature were both humbling and inspiring. And although the goals of NASA’s Apollo program were not principally to do science, it inspired a generation of scientists. The ensuing years have seen this enthusiasm decline because of failings within as well as outside the world of science, as science is often ridiculed whenever findings lead to political debates. But the successful launch of a remarkable new space telescope this year has rekindled a sense of awe and wonder at the magnificence of the Universe and the thrill of human achievement.
In Other Journals
Authors: Smith Keith T. , Hines Pamela J. , Lopez Bianca , Hurtley Stella M. , Ray L. Bryan , Funk Michael A. , Yeston Jake
Published: December 2022

Editors’ selections from the current scientific literature
Golden eye
Authors: Clery Daniel
Published: December 2022

A new space telescope makes a spectacular debut after a troubled gestation
Breakdowns of the year
Authors: Normile Dennis , Malakoff David
Published: December 2022

What went wrong in the world of science
Three-Dimensional Reconstruction of the Hepatitis C Virus Envelope Glycoprotein E1E2 Heterodimer by Electron Microscopic Analysis
Authors: Kanai Tapan , Hu Zongyi , Yang Renbin , Wu Weimin , Wang Ziqiu , Ma Christopher D. , Sanchez-Meza Jaime , Law Mansun , Houghton Michael , Law John Lokman , Logan Michael , de Val Natalia , Liang T. Jake
Published: December 2022

Recombinant HCV E1E2 heterodimer is being developed as a vaccine candidate. Using electron microscopy, we demonstrated unique features of E1E2 in complex with various neutralizing antibodies and small molecule inhibitors that are important to understanding its antigenicity and induction of immune response.
Hepatitis B Virus X Protein Inhibits the Expression of Barrier To Autointegration factor1 via Upregulating miR-203 Expression in Hepatic Cells
Authors: Mishra Amit Kumar , Hossain Md Musa , Sata Teja Naveen , Yadav Ajay K. , Zadran Shahidullah , Sah Amrendra Kumar , Nayak Baibaswata , Shalimar  , Venugopal Senthil Kumar
Published: December 2022

In this study, for the first time, we found that BANF1 inhibited HBV replication and restricted the viral load. However, as previously reported for other viruses, the results in this study showed that BAF1 phosphorylation/dephosphorylation is not involved in its antiviral activity against HBV.
Solubility of Platinum in Pyrite and Pyrrhotite
Authors: Filimonova O. N. , Akinfiev N. N. , Abramova V. D. , Kovalchuk E. V. , Chareev D. A. , Tagirov B. R.
Published: December 2022

A temperature range of processes leading to the concentration of Pt in the crust widely varies from high-temperature orthomagmatic to low-temperature hydrothermal and biogenic. Pyrite FeS2 and pyrrhotite Fe1–xS are important components of sulfide ores, which contain platinum-group elements. Fe sulfides typically host from a few hundreds to a few tens ppm of dispersed (invisible) Pt. In this work, we summarized the available data on the solubility of Pt in pyrite and pyrrhotite, supplement them with the results of synthesis of these minerals in the presence of Pt phases, and present a model that can describe the solubility of Pt in a broad range of temperature and S2 fugacity. The resulting equations allow the calculation of the solubility of Pt (ppm) in a temperature range of 300 < t < 1100°C and S2 fugacity up to the equilibrium with Sl. Tables with the solubility of Pt in pyrite and pyrrhotite depending on temperature and S2 fugacity are presented. Isopleths of the solubility of Pt in Fe sulfides are plotted on a log f(S2)–1000/T diagram. The analysis of the position of the main field of ore formation on this diagram showed that pyrite and pyrrhotite dissolve up to a few and a few hundreds of ppm Pt, respectively, upon conditions typical of ore formation: t < 700°C and log f(S2) < –4. These estimations coincide with maximum Pt contents determined in minerals of natural sulfide ores.
New Therapeutics in Alzheimer’s Disease Longitudinal Cohort study (NTAD): study protocol
Authors: Lanskey Juliette Helene , Kocagoncu Ece , Quinn Andrew J , Cheng Yun-Ju , Karadag Melek , Pitt Jemma , Lowe Stephen , Perkinton Michael , Raymont Vanessa , Singh Krish D , Woolrich Mark , Nobre Anna C , Henson Richard N , Rowe James B
Published: December 2022

Introduction

With the pressing need to develop treatments that slow or stop the progression of Alzheimer’s disease, new tools are needed to reduce clinical trial duration and validate new targets for human therapeutics. Such tools could be derived from neurophysiological measurements of disease.

Methods and analysis

The New Therapeutics in Alzheimer’s Disease study (NTAD) aims to identify a biomarker set from magneto/electroencephalography that is sensitive to disease and progression over 1 year. The study will recruit 100 people with amyloid-positive mild cognitive impairment or early-stage Alzheimer’s disease and 30 healthy controls aged between 50 and 85 years. Measurements of the clinical, cognitive and imaging data (magnetoencephalography, electroencephalography and MRI) of all participants will be taken at baseline. These measurements will be repeated after approximately 1 year on participants with Alzheimer’s disease or mild cognitive impairment, and clinical and cognitive assessment of these participants will be repeated again after approximately 2 years. To assess reliability of magneto/electroencephalographic changes, a subset of 30 participants with mild cognitive impairment or early-stage Alzheimer’s disease will also undergo repeat magneto/electroencephalography 2 weeks after baseline. Baseline and longitudinal changes in neurophysiology are the primary analyses of interest. Additional outputs will include atrophy and cognitive change and estimated numbers needed to treat each arm of simulated clinical trials of a future disease-modifying therapy.

Ethics and data statement

The study has received a favourable opinion from the East of England Cambridge Central Research Ethics Committee (REC reference 18/EE/0042). Results will be disseminated through internal reports, peer-reviewed scientific journals, conference presentations, website publication, submission to regulatory authorities and other publications. Data will be made available via the Dementias Platform UK Data Portal on completion of initial analyses by the NTAD study group.
Micronutrient deficiencies and anaemia associated with body mass index in Australian adults: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Seifu Canaan Negash , Fahey Paul Patrick , Atlantis Evan
Published: December 2022

Aim

To estimate the prevalence of micronutrient deficiencies and anaemia, and their association with body mass index (BMI) categories among Australian adults.

Method

We analysed data from the 2011–2013 Australian Health Survey from 3539 participants aged 18 years and over (without known pregnancy) with measured weight and height, and nutrient biomarkers. To address complex sampling, survey weights were used when estimating the prevalence of micronutrient deficiencies (vitamin B12deficiency; serum vitamin B12<145 pmol/L; iron deficiency; ferritin<30 µg/L and vitamin D deficiency; 25-hydroxyvitamin D<50 nmol/L) and anaemia (haemoglobin <120 g/L for females and <130 g/L for males) and when assessing associations with logistic regression models with adjusted ORs (AORs) for BMI categories: healthy weight (BMI 18.5 to <25.0 kg/m2), reference; overweight (BMI 25.0 to <30.0 kg/m2), obesity class I (BMI 30.0 to <35.0 kg/m2), obesity class II/III (BMI 35.0 kg/m2or more).

Result

The prevalence of vitamin B12deficiency (range 0.9%─2.8%) and anaemia (range 3.9%─6.7%) were variable across BMI groups. The prevalence of iron deficiency in the obesity class I group was 12.0 percentage points lower than healthy weight group with an AOR of 0.50 (95% CI 0.30 to 0.83). The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in the obesity class II/III group was 7.9 percentage points higher than the healthy weight group with an AOR of 1.62 (95% CI 1.01 to 2.60). Vitamin B12deficiency and anaemia were not consistently associated with BMI groups.

Conclusion

We found a consistent association between severe obesity and vitamin D deficiency in Australian adults. We also found obesity class I was negatively associated with iron deficiency, whereas there was no consistent association between BMI groups and vitamin B12deficiency and anaemia. Public health strategies are needed to prevent vitamin D deficiency in this high-risk population.