bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strategic business performance through network capability and structural flexibility
Authors: Anser Muhammad Khalid , Yousaf Zahid , Usman Muhammad , Yousaf Seemab , Fatima Naseem , Hussain Hadi , Waheed Junaid
Published: April 2020

Purpose

The present study aims to develop a strategic business performance (SBP) model for larger firms by examining the mediating role of structural flexibility in the network capability–SBP link, as well as testing the moderating role of entrepreneurial orientation in the relationship between structural flexibility and SBP.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 929 senior managers/owners of large textile sector firms operating in Pakistan. Regression and bootstrapping techniques were used to test the proposed relationships.

Findings

The results revealed that network capability positively shapes firms' structural flexibility, which, in turn, helps firms achieve SBP. The present work also showed that entrepreneurial orientation strengthens the positive relationship between structural flexibility and SBP.

Research limitations/implications

This study is based on the cross-sectional data, and data were collected from the textile sector firms operating in Pakistan.

Practical implications

The findings suggest that managers should focus on developing firms' network capability, which positively shapes structural flexibility and helps firms achieve SBP. Entrepreneurial orientation can also play an imperative role for strengthening the link between structural flexibility and SBP.

Originality/value

The value of the present work rests on the deeper understanding of the network capability–SBP link that it offered by examining the relationships of the network capability dimensions with SBP through structural flexibility. Moreover, by bringing to the fore firms' entrepreneurial orientation as a moderator of the structural flexibility–SBP relationship, the study provided a new vantage point to uncover the complexities involved in the links between network capability, structural flexibility, and SBP.
The problem of fear in TQM – causes, consequences and reduction methods – a literature review
Authors: Bugdol Marek
Published: April 2020

Purpose

The primary objective of the paper is to present the role and meaning of fear in organizations implementing TQM. The author's intention is to identify the causes of fear in the TQM components as well as the main types of fear, their causes, consequences and methods of reduction.

Design/methodology/approach

The main research method applied is a systematic review of the literature on the subject. The applied systematic review procedure takes into consideration the indicated research objective, the selection of the basic literature and publications, the presentation of the publication database and content analysis. The author also makes use of his own observations ensuing from his acting in the capacity of a TQM consultant and a juror of the Polish Quality Award.

Findings

The paper presents the causes of fear in the TQM components, the main types of fear and its consequences. The limited possibilities of eliminating fear are also indicated. Fear appears when, for various reasons, TQM is improperly implemented and maintained, but also when resources are allocated incorrectly (e.g. a wrong selection of quality team members), and it is included in social processes (e.g. in the quality team forming process). It appears when only structural empowerment rather than mental empowerment is applied, when there exist contradictory expectations with regard to empowerment, in case of excessive and/or “have to” commitment in particular employees, and when too much emphasis is placed on commitment.

Research limitations/implications

The reflections included in the paper may become useful for quality management practitioners, as such knowledge allows them to avoid mistakes which are the cause of fear, that is an emotion making quality improvement difficult. The paper does not present the manifestations and sources of fear in all TQM components, and they are certainly included in a broadly understood quality culture. Nevertheless, the gathered and arranged knowledge can be the source of further research.

Originality/value

Being the result of the studies of the literature on the subject, this paper is one of few publications discussing in a detailed manner one of the principles of effective quality management formulated by E. Deming, namely “driving fear out”.
The contribution of preoccupation with failure to TQM, crisis management and HR aiming to overcome crises
Authors: Nizamidou Christina , Vouzas Fotios
Published: April 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is binary. At first, it explores the contribution of preoccupation with failure to total quality management (TQM) and crisis management (CM). Then, it analyzes how preoccupation with failure can advance the role of human resources department (HRD) in terms of CM.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper consists of the theoretical and the empirical part. In the theoretical part an extended literature review takes place. In the empirical part, the research statistical analysis is presented. The research was conducted in organizations that employ the largest number of employees in Greece and represent various corporate sectors.

Findings

The research permitted the authors to confirm their research hypotheses. It presented how preoccupation with failure can advance continuous improvement and CM. Moreover, it illustrated the impact of failure to the key role of HRD against crises.

Practical implications

Organizations and managers can reconsider their perspective towards failure. Additionally, they can review and redesign their TQM and CM procedures based on the research findings aiming to overcome crises.

Originality/value

The literature review indicated that limited research deals with the benefits of preoccupation with failure regarding TQM and CM. Specifically, the research advances the contribution of failure in relation with the level of CM intimacy to the role of HRD against crisis. The added value of the present is to make organizations and their top management realize the significance of failure and use it to promote learning, TQM and CM.
Underground testing: Name‐altering practices as probes in electronic music
Authors: Formilan Giovanni , Stark David
Published: April 2020

Name‐altering practices are common in many creative fields—pen names in literature, stage names in the performing arts, and aliases in music. More than just reflecting artistic habits or responding to the need for distinctive brands, these practices can also serve as test devices to probe, validate, and guide the artists’ active participation in a cultural movement. At the same time, they constitute a powerful probe to negotiate the boundaries of a subculture, especially when its features are threatened by appropriation from the mass‐oriented culture. Drawing evidence from electronic music, a field where name‐altering practices proliferate, we outline dynamics of pseudonymity, polyonymy, and anonymity that surround the use of aliases. We argue that name‐altering practices are both a tool that artists use to probe the creative environment and a device to recursively put one’s creative participation to the test. In the context of creative subcultures, name‐altering practices constitute a subtle but effective form of underground testing.
A Model of the Australian Housing Market
Authors: Saunders Trent , Tulip Peter
Published: April 2020

We build an empirical model of the Australian housing market that quantifies interrelationships between construction, vacancies, rents and prices. We find that low interest rates (partly reflecting lower world long‐term rates) explain much of the rapid growth in housing prices and construction over the past few years. Another demand factor, high immigration, also helps explain the tight housing market and rapid growth in rents in the late 2000s. A large part of the effect of interest rates on dwelling investment, and hence GDP, works through housing prices.
Public Attention and Auditor Behavior: The Case ofHurun Rich Listin China
Authors: WU DONGHUI , YE QING
Published: April 2020

Adverse client publicity can entail regulatory scrutiny over audited financial statements and impose political costs on auditors. We use the changes in client publicity caused by their controlling owners’ presence on theHurun Rich List(the rich listing) in China to test the hypothesis that auditor conservatism increases with client publicity. Our evidence indicates auditors issue more adverse audit opinions to clients and charge higher fees following the rich listing events. Moreover, we observe that auditors strategically respond to clients with different attributes—for clients whose owners accumulated wealth in a more questionable manner, auditors choose more stringent audit reporting to better defend themselves from regulatory scrutiny; for clients without such attributes, auditors primarily rely on increasing audit fees to cope with any post‐listing increase in audit risks. Our analyses also suggest the impacts of rich listings tend to be concentrated among large audit firms with stronger reputation concerns or among engagement auditors with more conservative reporting styles. By showing how auditors manage political risks associated with heightened public scrutiny, we contribute to both the auditing and political cost literature.
The Water Poverty Index: An application in the Indian context
Authors: Goel Isha , Sharma Seema , Kashiramka Smita
Published: April 2020

For developing countries, the proportion of households covered by improved water resources is conventionally used to assess the water stress situation. However, in a developing country like India with a high population growth rate, water demand and supply are considerably mismatched. An agro‐based economy with large variations in socio‐economic conditions and changing rainfall patterns across the states imposes greater challenge on water resources. Therefore, there is a need to assess the water situation across the country in a holistic manner. This paper proposes application of the Water Poverty Index as a comprehensive policy tool to assess actual water‐stress situation across 20 major states in India. This index covers important socio‐economic parameters such as access, capacity, use and environment in addition to water resources of each state. The results and findings are expected to be of use to policymakers and implementing agencies. In view of policy formulation, a state performing well on a Water Poverty Index component can act as a benchmark for another state.
Differential Ability of Necrophagous Diptera to Colonize Concealed Resources: Empirical Evidence From a Field Experiment in Brazil
Authors: Barbosa Taciano M. , Jales Jessica T. , Vasconcelos Simão D. , Gama Renata A.
Published: April 2020

Field studies in forensic entomology seem to assume that a cadaver is a resource equally accessible to flies, irrespective of the species’ size, behavior, and sensorial capacity. We aimed to challenge this assumption by experimentally manipulating baited traps in order to test whether the accessibility to decomposing baits is related to the following: (i) the diversity of necrophagous dipterans; (ii) the body size of adults; and (iii) the female sexual maturity stage. The experiment was performed in a rainforest fragment in Northeastern Brazil, in an area characterized by high levels of homicides. Traps baited with decomposing chicken liver had three levels of access: easy (six openings on the trap), intermediate (three), and difficult (one). A total of 750 adults of Calliphoridae, Fanniidae, Muscidae, Phoridae, and Sarcophagidae were collected. Of the 18 species recorded, Megaselia scalaris was the most abundant (46.8%) followed by Lucilia eximia (29.7%) and Chrysomya megacephala (9.8%). The number of species increased significantly with the accessibility level, but overall abundance did not differ, as a consequence of the numerical dominance of M. scalaris. A strong female bias (>91%) was observed in all traps. For Calliphoridae specimens, 90% of the females caught in traps under intermediate and difficult access were sexually mature. By empirically demonstrating that limitation of access and exclusion of visual stimuli do not deter several dipteran species from reaching a substrate, we expand the knowledge on the factors that can shape the colonization of concealed human cadavers, including variables such as insect size and stage of sexual maturity.
Reflectance Transformation Imaging (RTI) for the Documentation of Saw Mark Characteristics
Authors: Martlin Britny , Rando Carolyn
Published: April 2020

Photography is widely accepted as a means of forensic case documentation and evaluation. In cases of criminal dismemberment digital microscopy is commonly used to assess marks left on the bone. Reflectance transformation imaging (RTI) is a computational photography technique which documents and enhances the three‐dimensional (3D) reflectance properties of the surface of an object. RTI has primarily been used in the cultural heritage sector but has recently transitioned into forensic science. This study examines the use of RTI for the documentation and presentation of cut surface characteristics on fully sectioned long bones. Juvenile pig radii were bisected using three different handsaws, chosen as handsaws are the most common implement used in criminal dismemberments. The resulting 42 cut surfaces were then documented with a digital microscope and RTI. Four rendering modes were applied to the default RTI image, with diffuse gain being the most beneficial to accentuate cut surface features. Although great care must be taken when obtaining the photographic sequences necessary for detailed RTI analysis, RTI is relatively inexpensive, expeditious, and easy to use, and creates highly detailed, virtually interactive images. RTI may not replace microscopic methods of saw mark analysis, however could prove useful for the documentation, image sharing, and presentation of forensic evidence.
A Holistic Multi‐Scale Approach to Using 3D Scanning Technology in Accident Reconstruction
Authors: Baier Waltraud , Donnelly Michael J. , Payne Mark , Williams Mark A.
Published: April 2020

Three‐dimensional scanning and documentation methods are becoming increasingly employed by law enforcement personnel for crime scene and accident scene recording. Three‐dimensional documentation of the victim's body in such cases is also increasingly used as the field of forensic radiology and imaging is expanding rapidly. These scanning technologies enable a more complete and detailed documentation than standard autopsy. This was used to examine a fatal pedestrian‐vehicle collision where the pedestrian was killed by a van while crossing the road. Two competing scenarios were considered for the vehicle speed calculation: the pedestrian being projected forward by the impact or the pedestrian being carried on the vehicle's bonnet. In order to assist with this, the impact area of the accident vehicle was scanned using laser surface scanning, the victim was scanned using postmortem CT and micro‐CT and the data sets were combined to virtually match features of the vehicle to injuries on the victim. Micro‐CT revealed additional injuries not previously detected, lending support to the pedestrian‐carry theory.
Tuberculosis spondylitis in patients on hemodialysis: Clinical features, risk factors, and outcomes in 12 patients
Authors: Zhang Jianna , Zhang Ji , Sun Mei , Zhou Qiongxiu , Liu Yi , Chen Chaosheng , You Xiaohan
Published: April 2020

The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical features, risk factors and outcomes of tuberculosis spondylitis (TBS) in patients on hemodialysis (HD). We systematically reviewed medical records from 12 HD patients with TBS admitted to our hospital from April 2008 to April 2018. A total of 120 age‐ and sex‐matched HD patients without infections were randomly selected as controls. The incidence of TBS in our patient group was 1.5/1000 per year. The average duration from initial symptoms to diagnosis was 45.4 days (range, 11‐180 days). Neurosurgery was performed in 4 (33.3%) patients. TBS was cured or improved in 11 (91.7%) patients. HD patients with TBS had significantly lower albumin and Hb levels than controls (P = .03 and P = .01). These findings indicated that lower albumin and Hb levels were possible risk factors for TBS in patients on HD, most HD patients with TBS had a good outcome after anti‐TB therapy with or without surgery.
The therapeutic benefits of combined sorafenib and transarterial chemoembolization for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Lee Shou Wu , Lee Teng Yu , Peng Yen Chun , Yang Sheng Shun , Yeh Hong Zen , Chang Chi Sen
Published: April 2020

Objective

Systemic therapy, such as sorafenib, has been used clinically to treat patients with advanced stage or Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer staging system (BCLC) stage C hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The aim of the study was to evaluate the therapeutic benefit of combined sorafenib and transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) in this group of patients.

Methods

Data on patients with HCC at BCLC stage C from August 2012 to September 2017 were collected. Patients who were given sorafenib alone were classified as the monotherapy group and those taking sorafenib and TACE were classed as the combined therapy group.

Results

A total of 118 patients were enrolled. There were 65 and 53 patients in the monotherapy and the combined therapy group, respectively. The groups' general characteristics were similar. Compared with the monotherapy group the combined therapy group experienced prolonged time‐to‐progression (TTP) (mean 6.42 mo vs 3.63 mo, P = 0.003) and overall survival (OS) (mean 11.21 mo vs 5.98 mo, P = 0.001). A subgroup analysis found that patients with macroscopic vascular invasion (MVI) also had prolonged TTP and OS in the combined therapy group than the monotherapy group (mean TTP, 7.93 mo vs 3.43 mo, P = 0.007; mean OS, 13.41 mo vs 5.50 mo, P = 0.001), however, these significant differences did not exist for those with extrahepatic spread (EHS).

Conclusion

Combined sorafenib and TACE therapy has significant better outcomes than sorafenib alone in patients with stage C HCC, particularly those with MVI.
Genome‐wide association analyses based on whole‐genome sequencing of Protosalanx hyalocranius provide insights into sex determination of Salangid fishes
Authors: Li Yu‐Long , Xing Teng‐Fei , Liu Jin‐Xian
Published: April 2020

Identification of sex determination system and sex‐determining genes have important implications in conservation, ecology and evolution. However, much remains to be discovered about the evolution of different sexual determination systems in teleost fishes, of which the mechanisms of sex determination are remarkably variable. In the present study, the whole genomes of 20 males and 20 females of a Salangid fish, Protosalanx hyalocranius, were sequenced and genome wide association analyses were conducted to uncover its sex determination system and putative sex‐determining genes. A total of 150 SNPs were significantly associated with sex, which showed high differentiation between sexes (FST ranged from 0.245 to 0.556). Of the 150 sex‐associated SNPs, 76 SNPs displayed sex specificity with even coverage of depth and were female heterogametic, which suggested a ZZ/ZW sex determination system. Interestingly, one scaffold containing sex‐specific SNPs displayed synteny to the sex chromosome of medaka. Annotations of sex‐associated loci suggested that both transcriptional regulators (e.g., FOX genes) and secreted hormones and their receptors might be involved in the sex determination/differentiation of P. hyalocranius. More strikingly, we found a nonsense mutation in one copy of GALNT homology gene of all females, which suggested that “Z dosage” effect might play a vital role in the processes of sex determination/differentiation. These sex‐specific loci could be a valuable resource for further research on sex determination of Salangid fishes and the results could contribute to the understanding of sex determination mechanisms and the evolution of sex chromosome in teleost fishes.
Ultrasonography involvement of carotid, upper and lower limb arteries in a large cohort of systemic sclerosis patients
Authors: Caimmi Cristian , De Marchi Sergio , Bosello Silvia Laura , Giuggioli Dilia , Caramaschi Paola , Di Giorgio Angela , Spinella Amelia , Astorino Giulia , Canestrari Giovanni , Cocchiara Emanuele , Gremese Elisa , Viapiana Ombretta , Rossini Maurizio
Published: April 2020

Objectives

Data on macrovascular involvement in systemic sclerosis (SSc) are still debatable. The aim of this study was to estimate its prevalence and possible determinants in a large cohort.

Methods

One hundred and fifty‐five outpatients with SSc were enrolled. Data about disease characteristics and cardiovascular risk factors were collected and patients underwent ecocolor Doppler ultrasonography of arteries of the neck and lower (LL) and upper (UL) limbs.

Results

Mean age was 57.9 ± 14.5 years and most were female (88.4%) with a limited subset (63.2%). Mean disease duration was 11.4 ± 8.1 years. Twenty‐three (14.8%) had hypertension, 7 (4.8%) diabetes, 64 (41.3%) hypercholesterolemia and 63 (40.6%) were active/past smokers. Seventy‐nine (49%) patients had plaques at carotids, 49 (32.9%) at LL and 7 (4.9%) at UL. In multivariate analysis, patients with carotid plaques had more often a limited pattern (P = .001), patients with distal LL plaques pulmonary arterial hypertension (P = .006) and patients with proximal LL plaques lower diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide adjusted to hemoglobin and its ratio to alveolar volume (P = .004). In patients with UL plaques traditional cardiovascular risk factors were not more common, while forced vital capacity was lower (P = .023). Finally, upper limb and proximal LL plaques were as common in early disease patients as in longstanding ones, although the former were younger.

Conclusions

This study shows that macrovascular involvement is quite common in SSc and that some disease characteristics linked to microvascular involvement are associated with atherosclerotic plaques, which can be present even in early disease. Our study suggests that a complete evaluation of macrocirculation is mandatory for rheumatologists treating SSc patients.
Expression levels of a gene signature in hiPSC associated with lung adenocarcinoma stem cells and its capability in eliciting specific antitumor immune‐response in a humanized mice model
Authors: Wang Jingbo , Shao Lijuan , Wu Liujing , Ma Wei , Zheng Yuanyuan , Hu Chaofeng , Li Furong
Published: April 2020

Background

Previous studies have reported that cancer stem cells (CSCs) play a key role in tumorigenesis, metastasis, and recurrence. CSC‐based vaccination confers better protection in tumor cells. However, isolation and cultivation of CSCs are difficult. This study aimed to explore the similarities between CSCs and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs).

Methods

ALDH1+ cancer stem cells were isolated from lung adenocarcinoma patients and their gene expression patterns compared with human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs). In addition, a tumor vaccine was developed using hiPSC and unmethylated cytosine‐guanine (CpG). Finally, the antitumor properties of the vaccine were evaluated in a humanized mouse model.

Results

Preimmunization of iPSC+CpG elicited stronger antigen presentation and cytotoxic T cell response which suppressed the growth of tumors. Adoptive transfer of spleen T cells from the vaccine preimmunized mice inhibited tumor growth in unvaccinated recipients without any side effects.

Conclusions

This study suggests a universal strategy for tumor therapy which simplifies future clinical procedures. Therefore, the application of hiPSC elicits tumor protective responses.
The state of bariatric dental care in Australia: a silent disability crisis?
Authors: Malik Z
Published: April 2020

In the absence of dental related guidelines available in Australia specific to obesity and minimal awareness of the clinical implications on local dental practice, bariatric dental care can be perceived as a 'silent disability crisis'. This opinion piece and brief clinical note aims to question and raise awareness amongst dental professionals surrounding the current limited availability of bariatric dental chairs, difficulties in access, the safety of dental care delivery and ethical considerations for the dental management of people with obesity.
Toward an Improved Understanding of Work Motivation Profiles
Authors: Tóth‐Király István , Morin Alexandre J.S. , Bőthe Beáta , Rigó Adrien , Orosz Gábor
Published: April 2020

The present research proposes an improved understanding of work motivation by identifying employees’ motivational profiles while taking into account the dual global and specific nature of work motivation proposed by self‐determination theory (SDT). To document the construct validity of these latent profiles, we relied on the circumplex model of employees’ well‐being to investigate whether they differed in terms of burnout, work satisfaction, and work addiction. Results from analyses conducted among a sample of 955 employees revealed five distinct profiles characterized by differing levels of global and specific forms of motivation: Intrinsically Motivated, Poorly Motivated, Driven, Conflicted, and Self‐Determined. Lower levels of burnout and work satisfaction were associated with profiles characterized by higher global levels of self‐determination and more autonomous forms of motivation, matching theoretical expectations. Interestingly, work addiction was highest in the Driven profile and lowest in the Self‐Determined profile, suggesting that autonomous forms of motivation are not always able to buffer the adverse effects of controlled forms of motivation. Our results also suggest that the specific qualities of work motivations are just as important as the global levels of self‐determination in the identification of work motivation profiles.
Geological constraints on the use of lead isotopes for provenance in archaeometallurgy
Authors: Killick D.J , Stephens J.A , Fenn T. R.
Published: April 2020

The first part of this paper is a brief critical history of the use of Pb isotopes for inferring the geological provenance of archaeological materials, with an emphasis on non‐ferrous metals. The second part examines variation in the Pb isotopic ratios of oxide and sulphide ore minerals in selected regions of the world, and relates these to the geological histories of ore formation in each region. This exercise shows that in regions where most ore deposits are of similar geological age—as in the Andes, Europe and the circum‐Mediterranean—provenance analysis with Pb isotopes is inherently difficult because geographically distant sources often exhibit similar isotopic ratios. Conversely, regions with many periods of ore formation—such as southern Africa—appear to be very promising regions for future studies of provenance with Pb isotopes. The wider implication of this exploratory survey is that archaeologists should carefully consider the range and clustering of geological Pb isotopic ratios in their regions of interest before investing large sums of money into Pb isotopic analysis of artefacts.
A hybrid of two major Blomia tropicalis allergens as an allergy vaccine candidate
Authors: da Silva Eduardo Santos , Aglas Lorenz , Pinheiro Carina Silva , de Andrade Belitardo Emília M. M. , Silveira Elisânia Fontes , Huber Sara , Torres Rogério Tanan , Wallner Michael , Briza Peter , Lackner Peter , Laimer Josef , Pacheco Luis Gustavo C. , Cruz Álvaro A. , Alcântara‐Neves Neuza Maria , Ferreira Fatima
Published: April 2020

Introduction

Allergen‐specific immunotherapy (AIT) represents a curative approach for treating allergies. In the tropical and subtropical regions of the world, Blomia tropicalis (Blo t 5 and Blo t 21) is the likely dominant source of indoor allergens.

Aim

To generate a hypoallergenic Blo t 5/Blo t 21 hybrid molecule that can treat allergies caused by B tropicalis.

Methods

Using in silico design of B tropicalis hybrid proteins, we chose two hybrid proteins for heterologous expression. Wild‐type Blo t 5/Blo t 21 hybrid molecule and a hypoallergenic version, termed BTH1 and BTH2, respectively, were purified by ion exchange and size exclusion chromatography and characterized by physicochemical, as well as in vitro and in vivo immunological, experiments.

Results

BTH1, BTH2 and the parental allergens were purified to homogeneity and characterized in detail. BTH2 displayed the lowest IgE reactivity that induced basophil degranulation using sera from allergic rhinitis and asthmatic patients. BTH2 essentially presented the same endolysosomal degradation pattern as the shortened rBlo t 5 and showed a higher resistance towards degradation than the full‐length Blo t 5. In vivo immunization of mice with BTH2 led to the production of IgG antibodies that competed with human IgE for allergen binding. Stimulation of splenocytes from BTH2‐immunized mice produced higher levels of IL‐10 and decreased secretion of IL‐4 and IL‐5. In addition, BTH2 stimulated T‐cell proliferation in PBMCs isolated from allergic patients, with secretion of higher levels of IL‐10 and lower levels of IL‐5 and IL‐13, when compared to parental allergens.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

BTH2 is a promising hybrid vaccine candidate for immunotherapy of Blomia allergy. However, further pre‐clinical studies addressing its efficacy and safety are needed.
Potential implications of COVID‐19 on the Canadian pork industry
Authors: McEwan Ken , Marchand Lynn , Shang Max , Bucknell Delia
Published: April 2020

Canada and the United States have strong economic ties and form part of an integrated North American pork industry. Canada's pork industry is export‐oriented, and the United States represents a key market for both live pigs and pork. Pork value chain stakeholders include input suppliers, pig producers, transportation companies, slaughter plants, wholesalers, and retailers. There are three overriding areas of concern for the Canadian pork industry with respect to potential impacts of the current pandemic (COVID‐19). The first is Canada/US trade and the ability to continue exporting Canadian live pigs and pork to the United States. The second is labor and the impact of potential absenteeism on all sectors of the pork value chain. The third is global trade, because Canada's pork industry relies heavily on exporting pork to markets around the world.
The impact of COVID‐19 on the grains and oilseeds sector
Authors: Brewin Derek Gerald
Published: April 2020

While downstream distribution and demand is likely to be hampered by the labor and income effects of COVID‐19, Canada is expected to produce over 88 million tons of grains and oilseeds in 2020. Canadians have valid concerns about delays related to their changing needs as millions move their purchases from food services to retail groceries, but they should not worry about our overall supply of calories. Despite some shortages, the supply chains for flour and cooking oil are not likely to be blocked for an extended period. Learning from the coordinated needs of the BSE crisis in the beef sector, the federal government developed Value Chain Roundtables in 2003, including one for grains. These roundtables bring together government and industry to tackle the issues that face each sector's major needs, including food safety, transportation infrastructure, and market access. A working group made up of various roundtable members was set up specifically to deal with COVID‐19‐related supply chain challenges. This gives both industry and government a venue to attack any choke point or breakdown within our agrifood supply chains—the exact response we need at this time. A preestablished forum for discussion of critical issues at these roundtables, assuming the right players are active and present, cannot hurt, but it would useful for future planners and researchers if the federal government could clarify any positive impact they have.
Antimicrobial Peptide Omiganan Enhances Interferon Responses to Endosomal Toll‐Like Receptor Ligands in Human Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells
Authors: Grievink Hendrika W. , Jirka Silvana M. G. , Woutman Tess D. , Schoonakker Mascha , Rissmann Robert , Malone Karen E. , Feiss Gary , Moerland Matthijs
Published: April 2020

LL‐37 is a cationic antimicrobial peptide and the sole human member of cathelicidins. Besides its bactericidal properties, LL‐37 is known to have direct immunomodulatory effects, among which enhancement of antiviral responses via endosomal toll‐like receptors (TLRs). Omiganan pentahydrochloride is a synthetic cationic peptide in clinical development. Previously, omiganan was primarily known for its direct bactericidal and antifungal properties. We investigated whether omiganan enhances endosomal TLR responses, similar to LL‐37. Human peripheral blood mononuclear cells were treated with endosomal TLR3, −7, −8, and −9 ligands in the presence of omiganan. Omiganan enhanced TLR‐mediated interferon‐α release. Subsequent experiments with TLR9 ligands showed that plasmacytoid dendritic cells were main contributors to omiganan‐enhanced IFN production. Based on this type I interferon‐enhancing effect, omiganan may qualify as potential treatment modality for virus‐driven diseases. The molecular mechanism by which omiganan enhances endosomal TLR responses remains to be elucidated.
Healthcare use by children and young adults with cerebral palsy
Authors: Carter Bethan , Bennett C Verity , Jones Hywel , Bethel Jackie , Perra Oliver , Wang Ting , Kemp Alison
Published: April 2020

Aim

To link routinely collected health data to a cerebral palsy (CP) register in order to enable analysis of healthcare use by severity of CP.

Method

The Northern Ireland Cerebral Palsy Register was linked to hospital data. Data for those on the CP register born between 1st January 1981 and 31st December 2009 and alive in 2004 were extracted, forming a CP cohort (n=1684; 57% males, 43% females; aged 0–24y). Frequencies of healthcare events, and the reasons for them, were reported according to CP severity and compared with those without CP who had had at least one hospital attendance in Northern Ireland within the study period.

Results

Cases of CP represented 0.3% of the Northern Ireland population aged 0 to 24 years but accounted for 1.6% of hospital admissions and 1.6% of outpatient appointments. They had higher rates of elective admissions and multi‐day hospital stays than the general population. Respiratory conditions were the most common reason for emergency admissions. Those with most severe CP were 10 times more likely to be admitted, and four times more likely to attend outpatients, than those with mild CP.

Interpretation

Linkage between a register and routinely collected healthcare data provided a confirmed cohort of cases of CP that was sufficiently detailed to analyse healthcare use by disease severity.
Retinal ganglion cell topography predicts visual field function in spastic cerebral palsy
Authors: Jacobson Lena , Lennartsson Finn , Nilsson Maria
Published: April 2020

The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of optical coherence tomography (OCT) to identify and assess visual field defects caused by primary damage to the optic radiation in individuals with spastic cerebral palsy (CP). Ten individuals with spastic CP (six females, four males, with a median age of 21 years [range 17–38y]) had their brain lesions documented with conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and diffusion‐weighted MRI fibre tractography. Their macular ganglion cell layer (GCL) and inner plexiform layer (IPL) were examined with OCT and their visual fields were plotted. All participants had good visual acuity and were able to cooperate with the MRI and OCT examinations, as well as undergoing reliable perimetry. We found focal thinning of the GCL+IPL and corresponding homonymous visual field defects in individuals with brain damage affecting the optic radiation. We used GCL+IPL sector asymmetry as a sensitive OCT parameter to identify focal visual field defects. We observed no such sector asymmetry in GCL+IPL, or focal visual field defects, in individuals with normal MRI optic radiation imaging. Lesions affecting the optic radiation cause retrograde trans‐synaptic degeneration of retinal ganglion cells. OCT examination of the GCL in the macula identified corresponding focal damage to the optic radiation in individuals with spastic CP and can be used to predict focal visual field defects.

What this paper adds

Spastic cerebral palsy (CP) may be associated with damage to the optic radiation.

Damage to the optic radiation causes retrograde trans‐synaptic degeneration (RTSD).

RTSD can be mapped using optical coherence tomography.

Ganglion cell topography can predict visual field defects in individuals with spastic CP.
COVID‐19 infection may cause ketosis and ketoacidosis
Authors: Li Juyi , Wang Xiufang , Chen Jian , Zuo Xiuran , Zhang Hongmei , Deng Aiping
Published: April 2020

The present study included 658 hospitalized patients with confirmed COVID‐19. Forty‐two (6.4%) out of 658 patients presented with ketosis on admission with no obvious fever or diarrhoea. They had a median (interquartile range [IQR]) age of 47.0 (38.0–70.3) years, and 16 (38.1%) were men. Patients with ketosis were younger (median age 47.0 vs. 58.0 years; P = 0.003) and had a greater prevalence of fatigue (31.0% vs. 10.6%; P < 0.001), diabetes (35.7% vs. 18.5%; P = 0.007) and digestive disorders (31.0% vs. 12.0%; P < 0.001). They had a longer median (IQR) length of hospital stay (19.0 [12.8–33.3] vs. 16.0 [10.0–24.0] days; P < 0.001) and a higher mortality rate (21.4% vs. 8.9%; P = 0.017). Three (20.0%) out of the 15 patients with diabetic ketosis developed acidosis, five patients (26.7%) with diabetic ketosis died, and one of these (25.0%) presented with acidosis. Two (7.4%) and four (14.3%) of the 27 non‐diabetic ketotic patients developed severe acidosis and died, respectively, and one (25.0%) of these presented with acidosis. This suggests that COVID‐19 infection caused ketosis or ketoacidosis, and induced diabetic ketoacidosis for those with diabetes. Ketosis increased the length of hospital stay and mortality. Meanwhile, diabetes increased the length of hospital stay for patients with ketosis but had no effect on their mortality.
Three‐dimensional echocardiography for the assessment of the tricuspid valve
Authors: Peters Andrew C. , Gong Fei Fei , Rigolin Vera H.
Published: April 2020

Tricuspid valve pathology is increasingly recognized as an important contributor to patient morbidity. Accordingly, interest in transcatheter interventions for tricuspid valve disease has continued to grow. Echocardiographic imaging of the tricuspid valve has therefore become an integral component of patient assessment and the essential imaging modality for interventional procedures. The need for improved tricuspid valve imaging has highlighted the variability in tricuspid valve anatomy and the difficulties of using two‐dimensional (2D) echocardiography alone to determine the location and type of tricuspid valve disease. Here, three‐dimensional (3D) imaging using tools such as biplane imaging, multiplanar reconstruction and live 3D acquisition allow a more accurate and efficient evaluation of the tricuspid valve. The 3D imaging of the tricuspid valve is often focused on transesophageal echocardiography, but the more anterior location of the tricuspid valve also lends itself to assessment with transthoracic echocardiography. In this review, we will examine how 3D imaging can complement and enhance the information obtained from 2D echocardiography, and present novel applications for the quantitation of valvular disease and its utility in intraprocedural imaging.
Assessment of left atrial volume and function in patients with Sjögren's syndrome using three‐dimensional echocardiography
Authors: Hidayet Şiho , Yağmur Jülide , Karaca Yücel , Bayramoğlu Adil , Yolbaş Servet , Hidayet Emine , Ulutaş Zeynep , Pekdemir Hasan
Published: April 2020

Objective

We used real time, three‐dimensional transthoracic echocardiography (3DTTE) to evaluate left atrial (LA) volume and mechanical function in patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome (SS).

Methods

We prospectively included 42 consecutive patients with primary SS and 42 controls who were similar in terms of basal characteristics. 3DTTE was used to assess LA function.

Results

Maximum LA volume, minimum LA volume, pre‐atrial contraction LA volume, LA Active Stroke Volume (ASV), LA Total Stroke Volume (TSV), maximal left atrial volume index (LAVImax), Left atrial pre‐contraction volume index, and Left atrial minimum volume index, ASV index, and TSV index were significantly higher in the SS group, and the LA Total Emptying Fraction, LA Expansion Index, and LA Passive Emptying Fraction were significantly lower. Although the active emptying fraction was higher in the SS group, the difference was not statistically significant. LAVImax was positive correlated with disease duration (r = .753).

Conclusion

Left atrial function is impaired in SS patients and serves as an early marker of subclinical cardiac involvement.
Brain‐synthesized oestrogens regulate cortical migration in a sexually divergent manner
Authors: Sellers Katherine J. , Denley Matthew C.S. , Saito Atsushi , Foster Evangeline M. , Salgarella Irene , Delogu Alessio , Kamiya Atsushi , Srivastava Deepak P.
Published: April 2020

Oestrogens play an important role in brain development where they have been implicated in controlling various cellular processes. Several lines of evidence have been presented showing that oestrogens can be synthesized locally within the brain. Studies have demonstrated that aromatase, the enzyme responsible for the conversion of androgens to oestrogens, is expressed during early development in both male and female cortices. Furthermore, 17β‐oestradiol has been measured in foetal brain tissue from multiple species. 17β‐oestradiol regulates neural progenitor proliferation as well as the development of early neuronal morphology. However, what role locally derived oestrogens play in regulating cortical migration and, moreover, whether these effects are the same in males and females are unknown. Here, we investigated the impact of knockdown expression of Cyp19a1, which encodes aromatase, between embryonic day (E) 14.5 and postnatal day 0 (P0) had on neural migration within the cortex. Aromatase was expressed in the developing cortex of both sexes, but at significantly higher levels in male than female mice. Under basal conditions, no obvious differences in cortical migration between male and female mice were observed. However, knockdown of Cyp19a1 resulted in an increase in cells within the cortical plate, and a concurrent decrease in the subventricular zone/ventricular zone in P0 male mice. Interestingly, the opposite effect was observed in females, who displayed a significant reduction in cells migrating to the cortical plate. Together, these findings indicate that brain‐derived oestrogens regulate radial migration through distinct mechanisms in males and females.
Plant volatiles induced by herbivore eggs prime defences and mediate shifts in the reproductive strategy of receiving plants
Authors: Pashalidou Foteini G. , Eyman Lisa , Sims James , Buckley James , Fatouros Nina E. , De Moraes Consuelo M. , Mescher Mark C.
Published: April 2020

Plants can detect cues associated with the risk of future herbivory and modify defence phenotypes accordingly; however, our current understanding is limited both with respect to the range of early warning cues to which plants respond and the nature of the responses. Here we report that exposure to volatile emissions from plant tissues infested with herbivore eggs promotes stronger defence responses to subsequent herbivory in two Brassica species. Furthermore, exposure to these volatile cues elicited an apparent shift from growth to reproduction in Brassica nigra, with exposed plants exhibiting increased flower and seed production, but reduced leaf production, relative to unexposed controls. Our results thus document plant defence priming in response to a novel environmental cue, oviposition‐induced plant volatiles, while also showing that plant responses to early warning cues can include changes in both defence and life‐history traits.
Semiologic subgroups of insulo‐opercular seizures based on connectional architecture atlas
Authors: Wang Haixiang , McGonigal Aileen , Zhang Kai , Guo Qiang , Zhang Bingqing , Wang Xiu , Wang Xiao , Lin Jiuluan , Song Xiancheng , Feng Qian , Wang Siyu , Wang Mengyang , Shao Xiaoqiu , Liu Xiaoyan , Wang Liang , Zhou Wenjing
Published: April 2020

Objective

Insulo‐opercular seizures are characterized by diverse semiology, related to the insula's multiple functional roles and extensive connectivity. We aimed to identify semiologic subgroups and correlate these with insulo‐opercular subregions based on connectional architecture.

Methods

We retrospectively collected a large series of 37 patients with insulo‐opercular seizures explored by stereoelectroencephalography (SEEG) from three epilepsy centers. A new human brain atlas (Brainnetome Atlas, BNA) based on both anatomic and functional connections was employed to segment insulo‐opercular cortex. Semiology and SEEG changes were carefully reviewed and quantified. Principal component analysis and cluster analysis were used to correlate semiologic characteristics with insulo‐opercular subregions.

Results

Four main semiologic subgroups were identified, organized along an anteroventral to posterodorsal axis based on BNA. Group 1 was characterized by epigastric sensation and/or integrated gestural motor behaviors with or without feelings of fear or rage, involving the anteroventral insular regions and mesial temporal lobes. Group 2 was characterized by auditory sensations and symmetric proximal/axial tonic signs involving the posteroventral temporal operculum. The characteristics of group 3 were orofacial and laryngeal signs, involving the intermediate insulo‐opercular regions. The features of group 4 were somatosensory signs followed by nonintegrated gestural motor behaviors and/or asymmetric tonic signs involving the posterodorsal insulo‐opercular regions with propagation to the mesial frontal lobes. Thus anteroventral seizure organizations predominantly showed limbic system semiology, whereas more posterodorsal regions were associated with semiology involving mainly the sensorimotor system. Subjective symptoms proved to be particularly discriminating factors.

Significance

Insulo‐opercular seizures can be categorized in terms of clinical semiology and correlate with connectional architecture subregions along an anteroventral‐posterodorsal axis in line with the cytoarchitectonic gradient rather than the gyral anatomy of the insula cortex. This provides new insights into facilitating differential diagnosis and presurgical localization but also highlights the importance of considering connectional architecture in determining neural correlates of complex semiologic patterns.