bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Limited ant co-occurrence and defensive mutualism inAcaciaplants in a West African savanna
Authors: Djogbenou Anyse , Azihou Akomian F , Dassou Anicet G , Assogbadjo Achille E , Kassa Barthelemy , Gaoue Orou G
Published: June 2021

Our understanding of the role of fire and effect of ant species composition, beyond their diversity and abundance, on the effectiveness of mutualism defence is limited. Most of our knowledge of ant–plant defence in tropical Africa is biased towards East African savannas which have richer soil, higher primary productivity and a more diverse arthropods and mammal community than West African savannas. We assessed the diversity of ant species associated with Acacia species in the Pendjari Biosphere Reserve in the Dahomey Gap, and their impacts on elephant damage. Elephant damage, ant diversity and abundance were measured in stands of five Acacia species. Eleven ant species were identified in the Acacia stands. The composition of these ant communities varied across Acacia species. Pair of ant species co-occurred in only 2 % of sampled trees, suggesting a strong competitive exclusion. Within this annually burnt environment, ants were rare on small trees. The intensity of elephant-caused branch breaking did not vary between trees with ants and trees without ants, suggesting limited Acacia–ant mutualism. Such limited biotic defence may mask strong physical and chemical defence mechanisms of Acacia trees against elephant damage. Ant assemblages in West Africa, unlike those in the more productive East Africa, are particularly species-poor. However, there is a convergence between these two regions in low rate of ant co-occurrence which might indicate strong competitive exclusion. Our study suggests that such low ant species richness while limiting the efficacy of mutualism in controlling mega-herbivore damage may mask a strong defence syndrome.
Longitudinal monitoring and prediction of long-term outcome of scar stiffness on pediatric patients
Authors: Müller Bettina , Mazza Edoardo , Schiestl Clemens , Elrod Julia
Published: June 2021

Background

Hypertrophic scarring after burn injury is one of the greatest unmet challenges in patients with burn injuries. A better understanding of the characteristics of scar maturation and early prediction of the long-term outcome of scarring are prerequisites for improving targeted therapies and pivotal for patient counselling.

Methods

Repeated measurements of scar stiffness in 11 pediatric patients were performed over the course of 1 year using 2 suction devices, the Cutometer and the Nimble. In addition, the observer pliability score of the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale was applied. This longitudinal study allowed quantification of the ability of each of the measured parameters to reflect scar maturation, as indicated by change in skin pliability/stiffness, over time (using linear regression); the ability to distinguish individual patients (intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC)); the correlation of the devices (Spearman correlation coefficient); and the ability to predict long-term scar maturation based on early scar assessment (using receiver operating characteristic).

Results

All the tools used showed significant longitudinal decrease of scar stiffness from 3 months until 12 months after the injury. The Nimble (ICCpatientNimble = 0.99) and the Cutometer (ICCpatientCuto = 0.97) demonstrated an excellent ability to distinguish between individual patients. The Nimble seemed to be able to predict the 12-month pliability of scars based on early (3-month) measurements (area under the curve (AUC)12mPOSAS = 0.67; AUC12mC = 0.46; AUC12mN = 0.79).

Conclusions

The results of this preliminary study suggest that all 3 tools provide suitable means to quantify alterations in scar stiffness over time. Initial evidence suggests the Nimble is most favorable for predicting changes in stiffness associated with long-term scar maturation. Further studies with a larger sample size are required to validate tissue suction as a clinical tool for analysis of changes of scar stiffness over time.
European hemodialysis patient satisfaction with phosphate binders is associated with serum phosphorus levels: the Dialysis Outcomes and Practice Patterns Study (DOPPS)
Authors: McCullough Keith , Port Friedrich K , de Sequera Patricia , Rayner Hugh , Pecoits-Filho Roberto , Walpen Sebastian , Evenepoel Pieter , Pisoni Ronald L ,   Contributors are listed in Acknowledgements
Published: June 2021

Background

Hemodialysis patients are commonly prescribed phosphate binders (PB) to manage serum phosphorus levels, as hyperphosphatemia is strongly associated with poorer survival. Non-adherence with the PB prescription is associated with elevated serum phosphorus levels. We studied associations between patient satisfaction with their PB and serum phosphorus levels and mortality rates.

Methods

Adult hemodialysis patients in Germany, Italy, Spain, and UK in the Dialysis Outcomes and Practice Patterns Study were administered a survey instrument in late 2017. Patients were asked about their satisfaction with their PBs, as measured through three questions (difficulty, inconvenience, dissatisfaction) on a 5-point Likert scale, with each dichotomized into average-worst versus good responses. These were used as predictors in linear regression models of continuous serum phosphorus levels and in Cox proportional hazards models of mortality, with adjustments for demographics, comorbidities, and laboratory values.

Results

Patients having greater difficulty, inconvenience, and dissatisfaction with their PB had higher serum phosphorus levels in adjusted models: +0.21 mg/dL (95% CI ± 0.23), +0.30(±0.21) mg/dL, and 0.36(±0.22) mg/dL, respectively; and higher odds of having serum phosphorus levels ≥6.0 mg/dL. Measures of dissatisfaction were also associated with elevated risk of mortality, with adjusted hazard ratios of 2.2 (95% CI 1.3-3.6), 1.6 (1.0-2.6), and 1.7 (1.1-2.7), respectively; this association was not strongly affected by adjustment for baseline serum phosphorous level.

Conclusions

Self-reported difficulty, inconvenience, and dissatisfaction in taking one’s prescribed PBs were associated with elevated serum phosphorus levels and serum phosphorus levels above clinically meaningful thresholds. While the mechanism for the association with mortality is unclear, patient-reported satisfaction should be considered when attempting to manage patient serum phosphorus levels.
Screening for synchronous esophageal second primary tumors in patients with head and neck cancer
Authors: van de Ven Steffi E M , de Graaf Wilmar , Bugter Oisín , Spaander Manon C W , Nikkessen Suzan , de Jonge Pieter Jan F , Hardillo Jose A , Sewnaik Aniel , Monserez Dominiek A , Mast Hetty , Keereweer Stijn , Bruno Marco J , Baatenburg de Jong Robert J , Koch Arjun D
Published: June 2021

Patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) have an increased risk of developing esophageal second primary tumors (ESPTs). We aimed to determine the incidence, stage, and outcome of synchronous ESPTs in patients with HNSCC in a Western population. We performed a prospective, observational, and cohort study. Patients diagnosed with HNSCC in the oropharynx, hypopharynx, any other sub-location in combination with alcohol abuse, or patients with two synchronous HNSCCs, between February 2019 and February 2020 underwent screening esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD). ESPT was defined as presence of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) or high grade dysplasia (HGD). Eighty-five patients were included. A lesion suspected for ESPT was detected in 14 of 85 patients, which was pathologically confirmed in five patients (1 ESCC and 4 HGD). The radiotherapy field was extended to the esophagus in two of five patients, HGD was treated with endoscopic resection in three of five patients. None of the ESPTs were detected on MRI and/or CT-scan prior to EGD. Of the remaining nine patients, three had low grade dysplasia on histology whereas the other six patients had benign lesions. Incidence of synchronous ESPT was 5.9% in our cohort of HNSCC patients. All ESPTs were diagnosed at an early stage and treated with curative intent. We recommend that screening for synchronous ESPTs should be considered in a selected group of patients with HNSCC.
Genetic-pathological prediction for timing and site-specific recurrence pattern in resected lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Deng Chaoqiang , Zhang Yang , Fu Fangqiu , Ma Xiangyi , Wen Zhexu , Ma Zelin , Wang Shengping , Li Yuan , Chen Haiquan
Published: June 2021

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to describe accurately the timing and site-specific recurrence pattern for surgical resected lung adenocarcinoma and develop genetic-pathological risk prediction models to guide individual postoperative surveillance strategies.

METHODS

We retrospectively analysed radiological, pathological and sequencing data concerning 9 common oncogenic driver mutations from 1531 patients with resected lung adenocarcinoma between 2008 and 2015. The first recurrence site and time-to-recurrence were recorded. Independent risk factors were identified by multivariable regression analysis and consequently incorporated into prediction models.

RESULTS

With a median follow-up of 53.2 months, postoperative recurrences were noted in 483 (31.5%) patients. Bone and brain recurrence tended to occur early (median 11.7 and 17.0 months, respectively) while thorax recurrence occurred later (median 22.2 months), which was validated across different tumour stages. EGFR mutation was an independent predictor for brain and bone recurrence and KRAS mutation for early recurrence. Both internal and external validation of the nomograms for brain and bone recurrence prediction showed optimal discrimination (concordance index: internal, 0.75 and 0.81, respectively; external, 0.77 and 0.84, respectively) and calibration. Recurrence occurred relatively evenly during the follow-up period in low-risk groups but mainly occurred within 2 years in high-risk groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Unique biological differences exist among lung adenocarcinoma leading to distinct patterns of recurrence. These user-friendly genetic-pathological nomograms may help physicians to better stratify patients and make individual postoperative follow-up plans.
A novel relationship for the maximum specific growth rate of a microbial guild
Authors: Veshareh Moein Jahanbani , Nick Hamidreza M
Published: June 2021

One of the major parameters that characterizes the kinetics of microbial processes is the maximum specific growth rate. The maximum specific growth rate for a single microorganism (${\mu _{max}}$) is fairly constant. However, a certain microbial process is typically catalyzed by a group of microorganisms (guild) that have various ${\mu _{max}}$ values. In many occasions, it is not feasible to breakdown a guild into its constituent microorganisms. Therefore, it is a common practice to assume a constant maximum specific growth rate for the guild ($\acute{\mu}_{max}$) and determine its value by fitting experimental data. This assumption is valid for natural environments, where microbial guilds are stabilized and dominated by microorganisms that grow optimally in those environments’ conditions. However, a change in an environment's conditions will trigger a community shift by favoring some of the microorganisms. This shift leads to a variable ${\acute{\mu}_{max}}$ as long as substrate availability is significantly higher than substrate affinity constant. In this work, it is illustrated that the assumption of constant ${\acute{\mu}_{max}}$ may underestimate or overestimate microbial growth. To circumvent this, a novel relationship that characterizes changes in ${\acute{\mu}_{max}}$ under abundant nutrient availability is proposed. The proposed relationship is evaluated for various random microbial guilds in batch experiments.
Stationary and oscillatory localized patterns in ratio-dependent predator–prey systems
Authors: Al Saadi Fahad , Champneys Alan , Worthy Annette , Msmali Ahmed
Published: June 2021

Investigations are undertaken into simple predator–prey models with rational interaction terms in one and two spatial dimensions. Focusing on a case with linear interaction and saturation, an analysis for long domains in 1D is undertaken using ideas from spatial dynamics. In the limit that prey diffuses much more slowly than predator, the Turing bifurcation is found to be subcritical, which gives rise to localized patterns within a Pomeau pinning parameter region. Parameter regions for localized patterns and isolated spots are delineated. For a realistic range of parameters, a temporal Hopf bifurcation of the balanced equilibrium state occurs within the localized-pattern region. Detailed spectral computations and numerical simulations reveal how the Hopf bifurcation is inherited by the localized structures at nearby parameter values, giving rise to both temporally periodic and chaotic localized patterns. Simulation results in 2D confirm the onset of complex spatio-temporal patterns within the corresponding parameter regions. The generality of the results is confirmed by showing qualitatively the same bifurcation structure within a similar model with quadratic interaction and saturation. The implications for ecology are briefly discussed.
Canadian Jurisprudence and the Employment Contract
Authors: Brodie Douglas
Published: June 2021

The jurisprudence of the Canadian Supreme Court has been at the forefront of a judicial conversion to a more progressive view of the employment relationship, which is attuned to key realities such as inequality of bargaining power. The Court’s influence can be seen in the decisions of courts in other jurisdictions such as the UK. The change in outlook has had a discernable impact on doctrinal development. In recent years, the Canadian Supreme Court has elevated the importance of good faith in contract law as a whole. In 2020, in a series of key decisions, the Court explored some of the implications for the law of employment contract. This article seeks to explore whether those developments will be of relevance to the development of the employment contract here.
SYP-5 regulates meiotic thermotolerance in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Liu Yuanyuan , Zhao Qiuchen , Nie Hui , Zhang Fengguo , Fu Tingting , Zhang Zhenguo , Qi Feifei , Wang Ruoxi , Zhou Jun , Gao Jinmin
Published: June 2021

Meiosis produces the haploid gametes required by all sexually reproducing organisms, occurring in specific temperature ranges in different organisms. However, how meiotic thermotolerance is regulated remains largely unknown. Using the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans, here, we identified the synaptonemal complex (SC) protein SYP-5 as a critical regulator of meiotic thermotolerance. syp-5-null mutants maintained a high percentage of viable progeny at 20°C but produced significantly fewer viable progeny at 25°C, a permissive temperature in wild-type worms. Cytological analysis of meiotic events in the mutants revealed that while SC assembly and disassembly, as well as DNA double-strand break repair kinetics, were not affected by the elevated temperature, crossover designation, and bivalent formation were significantly affected. More severe homolog segregation errors were also observed at elevated temperature. A temperature switching assay revealed that late meiotic prophase events were not temperature-sensitive and that meiotic defects during pachytene stage were responsible for the reduced viability of syp-5 mutants at the elevated temperature. Moreover, SC polycomplex formation and hexanediol sensitivity analysis suggested that SYP-5 was required for the normal properties of the SC, and charge-interacting elements in SC components were involved in regulating meiotic thermotolerance. Together, these findings provide a novel molecular mechanism for meiotic thermotolerance regulation.
The use of gauze-based negative-pressure wound therapy with Y-connector for dressing full-circumference skin grafts on both lower limbs
Authors: Fukui Michika , Kakudo Natsuko , Hihara Masakatsu , Mitsui Toshihito , Matsuoka Yuki , Kuro Atsuyuki , Kusumoto Kenji
Published: June 2021

Free skin grafts have long been used as an essential surgical procedure to treat skin defects due to burns, trauma or illness, requiring skin transfers from sufficient, non-marked areas. Usually, free skin grafts are covered by simple pressure dressings or tie-over dressings. However, under conditions of wide, concave or irregular wounds, graft removal has been problematic due to instability. We report a case in which gauze-based negative-pressure wound therapy using a Y-connector was indicated for the opportunity to cover both limbs with free skin grafts all around, providing successful wound care.
GmGSTU13 Is Related to the Development of Mosaic Symptoms in Soybean Plants Infected with Soybean Mosaic Virus
Authors: Zhang Kai , Shen Yingchao , Wang Tao , Wang Yu , Xue Song , Luan Hexiang , Wang Liqun , Li Kai , Guo Dongquan , Zhi Haijian
Published: June 2021

The leaves of soybean cultivar ZheA8901 show various symptoms (necrosis, mosaic, and symptomless) when infected with different strains of soybean mosaic virus (SMV). Based on a proteomic analysis performed with tandem mass tags (TMT), 736 proteins were differentially expressed from soybean samples that showed asymptomatic, mosaic, and necrosis symptoms induced by SMV strains SC3, SC7, and SC15, respectively. Among these, GmGSTU13 and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) were only upregulated in mosaic and symptomless leaves, respectively. The protein level of GmGSTU13 determined by western blot analysis was consistent with TMT analysis, and quantitative reverse transcriptase PCR analysis showed that GmGSTU13 mRNA levels in mosaic plants were 5.26- and 3.75-fold higher than those in necrotic and symptomless plants, respectively. Additionally, the expression of the viral coat protein (CP) gene was increased, and serious mosaic symptoms were observed in GmGSTU13-overexpressing plants inoculated with all three SMV strains. These results showed that GmGSTU13 is associated with the development of SMV-induced mosaic symptoms in soybean and that APX is upregulated in symptomless leaves at both the transcriptional and protein levels. In APX gene-silenced soybean plants, the relative expression of the viral CP gene was 1.50, 7.59, and 1.30 times higher than in positive control plants inoculated with the three SMV strains, suggesting that the upregulation of APX may be associated with lack of symptoms in soybean infected with SMV. This work provides a useful dataset for identifying key proteins responsible for symptom development in soybean infected with different SMV strains.
Classifying cephalosporins: from generation to cross-reactivity
Authors: Fernandez Javier , Jimenez-Rodriguez Teodorikez W. , Blanca-Lopez Natalia
Published: June 2021

Purpose of review

To review the most recent literature studying the classifications, immunochemistry, and crossreactivity of allergy reactions to cephalosporins.

Recent findings

Over the last five years, research interest has focused on three areas related to cephalosporin allergy: cross-reactivity among cephalosporins and with other beta-lactams; the incidence of adverse reactions in penicillin allergy patients or in reported penicillin allergy labels; and new cephalosporins structures involved in the immunological recognition.

Meta-analysis of a substantial number of studies shows that cephalosporins are safer than previously thought. Evidence supports two main conclusions in that regard. First, there is a relatively low percentage of cross-reactivity between cephalosporins and other beta-lactams with penicillins in penicillin allergy patients. Second, there is a very low incidence of allergy reactions in nonselected as well as in selected penicillin allergy patients when cephalosporins are used prior to surgical intervention.

On the other hand, few structures have been discovered related to the immune mechanism of cephalosporin allergy reactions, and these are far from being ready to use in clinical practice.
Optimizing Graft Extraction From the Femoral Condyle for Fresh Osteochondral Allograft Transplantation in Treating Osteochondritis Dissecans of the Capitellum: Best Fit Based on Radius of Curvature
Authors: Goldstein Zachary T. , Thompson Austin R. , Robbins Michael A. , Yang Scott S. , Nazir Omar F. , Mirarchi Adam J.
Published: June 2021

Background:

Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) of the capitellum is a common cause of pain and dysfunction in adolescents that engage in repetitive elbow loading. For large, unstable lesions fresh osteochondral allograft transplantation (FOCAT) from the femoral condyle has been described as an effective treatment. Current practice involves significant guesswork in obtaining an appropriately sized graft, with anatomic variations resulting in poor graft fit. No studies currently exist that analyze and identify the best distal femur FOCAT graft site to repair OCD lesions of the capitellum based on the radius of curvature (ROC) and simulated matching.

Methods:

Computed tomography scans of the elbow were used to estimate the subchondral bone ROC of capitella in adolescents aged 11 to 21 years. The capitellar location used corresponds to the most commonly reported site of OCD lesions in the elbow. Computed tomography scans of the lower extremity were used to estimate the subchondral bone ROC of 4 potential donor femoral condyle grafts. ROC from distinct regions at the posterior section of both the medial and lateral femoral condyles were measured: 2 areas representing 10 mm grafts from the center (MC1 and LC1), and 2 areas estimating 10 mm grafts posterior and adjacent to the physeal scar (MC2 and LC2). Intraobserver and interobserver reliability measurements were preformed to corroborate precision and validate the method.

Results:

The mean ROC of healthy subchondral bone at the region of the capitellum were OCD lesions most commonly occur was 9.79±1.39 mm. The mean ROC of MC1 was 18.61±2.26 mm. The average ROC of the MC2 was 15.23±1.43 mm. The average ROC of LC1 was 16.47±1.34 mm. The average ROC of LC2 was 18.19±3.09 mm. After 15,000 simulated condyle-to-capitellar site matchings based on these measurements, a good fit graft was achieved at a frequency of 15%.

Discussion:

No site measured from the femoral condyle demonstrated a subchondral ROC that exactly matched the subchondral ROC of the capitellum at the center location where OCD lesions most commonly occur; of the locations measured, a 10 mm section from MC2 demonstrated the closest match. On the basis of this analysis, extracting a graft from MC2 has the potential to further optimize FOCAT fit to the capitellum.

Level of Evidence:

Level III.
Mediastinal Lymphoproliferative Disorders
Authors: Pina-Oviedo Sergio
Published: June 2021

Lymphoproliferative disorders comprise 50% to 60% of all mediastinal malignancies in both children and adults. Primary mediastinal involvement is rare (∼5%), whereas secondary mediastinal involvement by systemic disease is more common (10% to 25%). Primary mediastinal disease is defined as involvement by a lymphoproliferative disorder of mediastinal lymph nodes, the thymus, and/or extranodal mediastinal organs without evidence of systemic disease at presentation. In this review, the clinical, radiologic, histopathologic, immunohistochemical, and genetic features of some of the most characteristic mediastinal lymphoproliferative disorders are presented. The entities discussed here include: classic Hodgkin lymphoma with emphasis on nodular sclerosis and mixed cellularity types, and non-Hodgkin lymphomas, including primary mediastinal (thymic) large B-cell lymphoma, mediastinal gray zone lymphoma, mediastinal diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, thymic marginal zone lymphoma, mediastinal plasmacytoma, T-lymphoblastic lymphoma, and anaplastic large cell lymphoma. Although not a malignant process, hyaline vascular Castleman disease is also discussed here as this disorder commonly involves the mediastinum. Despite multiple advances in hematopathology in recent decades, the day-to-day diagnosis of these lesions still requires a morphologic approach and a proper selection of immunohistochemical markers. For this reason, it is crucial for general pathologists to be familiar with these entities and their particular clinicoradiologic presentation.
Low-grade Endometrial Stromal Sarcoma With Sex Cord-like Differentiation and PHF1-JAZF1 Fusion With Deletions: A Diagnostic Pitfall of JAZF1 FISH
Authors: Ordulu Zehra , Avril Stefanie , Nardi Valentina , Dias-Santagata Dora , Oliva Esther
Published: June 2021

The molecular knowledge of endometrial stromal neoplasms has been rapidly increasing and is considered complementary to morphologic and immunohistochemical findings for better categorization of these tumors. The most common molecular alteration observed in low-grade endometrial stromal sarcomas is the JAZF1-SUZ12 fusion, whereas, low-grade endometrial stromal sarcoma with sex cord-like differentiation have been shown more commonly to have fusions involving PHF1. Herein, we present a low-grade endometrial stromal sarcoma with sex cord-like differentiation with a fluorescence in situ hybridization showing the apparent loss of one copy of JAZF1 5′ and 3′ signals, rather than the expected “break-apart” pattern seen in the setting of a JAZF1 fusion. The case was then further evaluated by chromosome microarray and RNA fusion analysis. Overall, the molecular findings supported a PHF1-JAZF1 fusion with deletions right before and after the JAZF1 locus, impairing probe binding and resulting in the unusual “deletion” pattern observed in the JAZF1 fluorescence in situ hybridization, which would not intuitively suggest a fusion involving JAZF1. This case illustrates the importance of integration of morphological and molecular findings as well as the limitations of fluorescence in situ hybridization in detecting fusions, particularly in the setting of more complex chromosomal alterations even though the fusion partners are well-known.
Leaders of the Pack: A Comparison of Chairs and Chiefs to Other Surgeons in American Academic Plastic Surgery
Authors: Mellia Joseph A. , Murphy Alexander I. , Klifto Kevin M. , Diatta Fortunay , Morris Martin P. , Patel Viren , Othman Sammy , Christopher Adrienne N. , Fischer John P.
Published: June 2021

Chairs/chiefs of plastic surgery departments/divisions are responsible for directing activities at academic institutions and thus help determine the direction of academic plastic surgery. Other studies have characterized this group but have not shown which characteristics separate them from other surgeons in the field. To study this relationship, a cross-sectional analysis of plastic surgery faculty affiliated with United States residency training programs (n = 99) was initiated. Data were collected from public online websites. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were used to identify factors independently associated with chairs/chief status. Sub-analyses were performed within Tiers stratified by residency program rank of chair/chief's current institution. Among 943 plastic surgeons, 98 chairs/chiefs were identified. In accordance with prior literature, most are male (89%) and fellowship-trained (62%), and they have a median H-index of 17. Compared to other surgeons, chair/chiefs have more years in practice (odds ratio [OR]: 1.026, confidence interval [CI]: 0.002–0.049, P = 0.034), higher H-index (OR: 1.103, CI: 0.048–0.147, P < 0.001), and more citations (OR: 1.000, CI: −0.000 to −0.001, P = 0.006). Chair/chiefs were also more likely to be journal editorial board members (OR: 1.728, CI: −0.033 to 1.127, P = 0.046) and national society/organization presidents (OR: 1.024, CI: 0.008–0.039, P = 0.003). No notable differences were found between department chairs versus division chiefs or across Tiers. Overall, scholarly achievement and significant years of experience distinguish chairs/chiefs in American academic plastic surgery. Criteria for achieving this leadership role may not differ between departments and divisions. Further research is needed to evaluate whether these characteristics translate into more effective leadership.
Primary Nasal Correction in Unilateral Cleft Lip: An Ongoing Journey
Authors: Madaree Anil
Published: June 2021

Background:

A cleft lip deformity, whether unilateral or bilateral, is usually associated with a deformity of the nose. In present day cleft surgery, it is routine to perform a varying extent of correction of the nasal deformity. There is often relapse and ongoing deformity which warrant further nasal surgery. The authors describe their method of nasal correction which includes using a hypodermic needle to help achieve repositioning and suspension of the nasal cartilages.

Materials and Method:

The authors reviewed 100 consecutive cases of unilateral cleft lip who had nasal correction since June 2018. There were 59 males and 41 females with a mean age of 5.5 months. There were 72 complete and 28 incomplete cleft lips. The steps in nasal correction include septal repositioning, sutures to approximate the ala domes, and upper medial crura, suspension of the lower lateral cartilage to the upper lateral cartilage and sutures to approximate the skin, lower lateral cartilage, and mucosa in a sandwich fashion.

Results:

The patients were followed up for a range of 9 to 21 months with a mean of 18 months. The correction immediately postop and at 2 weeks follow up was good. However, at 1 year follow up there was some evidence of relapse. The correction achieved was, however, superior to that achieved before this method. None of the relapses were deemed severe enough to warrant further surgery at this stage.

Conclusions:

This method of nasal correction is recommended to achieve superior outcomes in the surgical treatment of unilateral cleft lips.
Clarity Plus™ digital PCR: A novel platform for absolute quantification of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Han Tan Shawn Yi , Milton Kwek Sheng Yi , Low Huiyu , Joy Pang Yan Ling
Published: June 2021

In recent years, the usage of digital polymerase chain reaction (dPCR) for various clinical applications has increased exponentially. Considering the growing demand for improved dPCR technology, the Clarity Plus™ dPCR system which features enhanced multiplexing capability and a wider dynamic range for nucleic acid analysis was recently launched. In this study, a dPCR assay optimized for use on Clarity Plus™ was evaluated for the absolute quantification of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the causative agent responsible for the global coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak. The assay demonstrated good inter- and intra-assay precision, accuracy, as well as excellent linearity across a range of over 6 orders of magnitude for target gene quantification. In addition, comparison of the assay on both dPCR and qPCR platforms revealed that dPCR exhibited a slightly higher sensitivity compared to its qPCR counterpart when quantifying SARS-CoV-2 at a lower concentration. Overall, the results showed that the dPCR assay is a reliable and effective approach for the absolute quantification of SARS-CoV-2 and can potentially be adopted as a molecular tool for detecting low viral load in patients and wastewater surveillance of COVID-19.
How is the distribution of psychological distress changing over time? Who is driving these changes? Analysis of the 1958 and 1970 British birth cohorts
Authors: Gondek Dawid , Lacey Rebecca E. , Blanchflower Dawid G. , Patalay Praveetha
Published: June 2021

Aims

The main objective of this study was to investigate distributional shifts underlying observed age and cohort differences in mean levels of psychological distress in the 1958 and 1970 British birth cohorts.

Methods

This study used data from the 1958 National Child Development Study and 1970 British birth cohort (n=24,707). Psychological distress was measured by the Malaise Inventory at ages 23, 33, 42 and 50 in the 1958 cohort and 26, 34, 42 and 46-48 in the 1970 cohort.

Results

The shifts in the distribution across age appear to be mainly due to changing proportion of those with moderate symptoms, except for midlife (age 42-50) when we observed polarisation in distress – increased proportions of people with no or multiple symptoms. The elevated levels of distress in the 1970 cohort, compared with the 1958 cohort, appeared to be due to an increase in the proportion of individuals with both moderate and high symptoms. For instance, at age 33/34 34.2% experienced no symptoms in 1970 compared with 54.0% in the 1958 cohort, whereas 42.3% endorsed at least two symptoms in the 1970 cohort vs 24.7% in 1958.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates the importance of studying not only mean levels of distress over time, but also the underlying shifts in its distribution. Due to the large dispersion of distress scores at any given measurement occasion, understanding the underlying distribution provides a more complete picture of population trends.
DNA methylation fingerprint for the diagnosis and monitoring of hepatocellular carcinoma from tissue and liquid biopsies
Authors: Gonçalves Emanuel , Reis Maria , Pereira-Leal José B , Cardoso Joana
Published: June 2021

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is amongst the cancers with highest mortality rates and is the most common malignancy of the liver. Early detection is vital to provide the best treatment possible and liquid biopsies combined with analysis of circulating tumour DNA methylation show great promise as a non-invasive approach for early cancer diagnosis and monitoring with low false negative rates.

Methods

To identify reliable diagnostic biomarkers of early HCC, we performed a systematic analysis of multiple hepatocellular studies and datasets comprising >1,500 genome-wide DNA methylation arrays, to define a methylation signature predictive of HCC in both tissue and cell-free DNA liquid biopsy samples.

Results

Our machine learning pipeline identified differentially methylated regions in HCC, some associated with transcriptional repression of genes related with cancer progression, that benchmarked positively against independent methylation signatures. Combining our signature of 38 DNA methylation regions, we derived a HCC detection score which confirmed the utility of our approach by identifying in an independent dataset 96% of HCC tissue samples with a precision of 98%, and most importantly successfully separated cfDNA of tumour samples from healthy controls. Notably, our risk score could identify cell-free DNA samples from patients with other tumours, including colorectal cancer.

Conclusions

Taken together, we propose a comprehensive HCC DNA methylation fingerprint and an associated risk score for the early diagnosis and early relapse detection of HCC from liquid biopsies.
Genome-wide identification and analysis of prognostic features in human cancers
Authors: Smith Joan C. , Sheltzer Jason M.
Published: June 2021

Clinical decisions in cancer rely on precisely assessing patient risk. To improve our ability to accurately identify the most aggressive malignancies, we constructed genome-wide survival models using gene expression, copy number, methylation, and mutation data from 10,884 patients with known clinical outcomes. We identified more than 100,000 significant prognostic biomarkers and demonstrate that these genomic features can predict patient outcomes in clinically-ambiguous situations. While adverse biomarkers are commonly believed to represent cancer driver genes and promising therapeutic targets, we show that cancer features associated with shorter survival times are not enriched for either oncogenes or for successful drug targets. Instead, the strongest adverse biomarkers represent widely-expressed housekeeping genes with roles in cell cycle progression, and, correspondingly, nearly all therapies directed against these features have failed in clinical trials. In total, our analysis establishes a rich resource for prognostic biomarker analysis and clarifies the use of patient survival data in preclinical cancer research and therapeutic development.
Genome sequence of the aurodox-producing bacterium Streptomyces goldiniensis ATCC 21386
Authors: McHugh Rebecca E. , Munnoch John T. , Roe Andrew J , Hoskisson Paul A.
Published: June 2021

We report the genome sequence of Streptomyces goldiniensis ATCC 21386, a strain which produces the anti-bacterial and anti-virulence polyketide, aurodox. The genome of S. goldiniensis ATCC 21386 was sequenced using a multiplatform hybrid approach, revealing a linear genome of ~10 Mbp with a G+C content of 71 %. The genome sequence revealed 36 putative biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs), including a large region of 271 Kbp that was rich in biosynthetic capability. The genome sequence is deposited in DDBJ/EMBL/GenBank with the accession number PRJNA602141.
Defining the activation profile and fate trajectory of adult Scleraxis-lineage cells during tendon healing by combining lineage tracing and spatial transcriptomics
Authors: Ackerman Jessica E. , Best Katherine T. , Muscat Samantha N. , Wu Chia-Lung , Loiselle Alayna E.
Published: June 2021

The tendon healing process is regulated by the coordinated interaction of multiple cell types and molecular processes. However, these processes are not well-defined leading to a paucity of therapeutic approaches to enhance tendon healing. Scleraxis-lineage (ScxLin) cells are the major cellular component of adult tendon and make time-dependent contributions to the healing process. Prior work from our lab and others suggests heterogeneity within the broader ScxLin population over the course of tendon healing; therefore delineating the temporal and spatial contributions of these cells is critical to understanding and improving the healing process. In the present study we utilize lineage tracing of the adult aScxLin population to determine whether these cells undergo cellular activation and subsequent myofibroblast differentiation, which is associated with both proper healing and fibrotic progression in many tissues. We show that adult aScxLin cells undergo transient activation in the organized cellular bridge at the tendon repair site, contribute to the formation of an organized neotendon, and contribute to a persistent myofibroblast population in the native tendon stubs. The mechanisms dictating this highly specialized spatial response are unknown. We therefore utilized spatial transcriptomics to better define the spatio-molecular program of tendon healing. Integrated transcriptomic analyses across the healing time-course identifies five distinct molecular regions, including key interactions between the inflammatory bridging tissue and highly reactive tendon tissue at the repair site, with adult ScxLin cells being a central player in the transition from native tendon to reactive, remodeling tendon. Collectively, these data provide important insights into both the role of adult ScxLin cells during healing as well as the molecular mechanisms that underpin and coordinate the temporal and spatial healing phenotype, which can be leveraged to enhance the healing process.
The virtual human resource development (VHRD) approach: an integrative literature review
Authors: Rahimi Somaye , Khorasani Abasalt , Rezaeizadeh Morteza , Waterworth John
Published: June 2021

Purpose

Given the growing popularity of virtual human resources development (VHRD) in organizations and among human resource development (HRD) professionals, it is highly essential to deeply examine the nature and scope of the affective dimensions of the VHRD approach. Over the past decade, VHRD has become an important part of the HRD process.

Design/methodology/approach

The present study used an integrative literature review to investigate the nature of VHRD in the literature, present a descriptive analysis of the literature and categorize the existing VHRD research.

Findings

The results indicated three major themes, namely, VHRD and socialization, VHRD and learning and VHRD and the psychological characteristics of the work environment. In addition, a new conceptual model was developed based on the findings.

Research limitations/implications

This study has reviewed the main concepts of VHRD. The potential actions which HRD researchers can take to address the identified challenges are discussed.

Originality/value

This integrative literature review could provide a roadmap for future research. Based on this model, the VHRD position is within the organizational context and different tools and processes in constant interaction are introduced. Finally, a general view of the VHRD approach was provided, which can help human resources experts deal with a wide range of technologies in the organization.
Improving regulatory capital allocation: a case for the internal ratings-based approach for retail credit risk exposures
Authors: Stewart Robert
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to demonstrate that the internal ratings-based (IRB) approach provides more effective risk discrimination than the standardized approach when calculating regulatory capital for retail credit risk exposures.

Design/methodology/approach

The author uses four retail credit data sets to compare regulatory capital appropriation using the IRB approach and the standardized approach. The author follows the regulatory capital calculation method recommended under Basel III. For the IRB approach, the author uses a logistic regression to determine the probability of default.

Findings

The results suggest that the IRB approach provides more effective risk discrimination across individual exposures, which allows more regulatory capital to be held against riskier exposures and less regulatory capital to be held against less risky exposures. The author further argues that the Basel III output floor, as presently constructed, may disincentivize the use of the IRB approach and further diminish the value of secured lending under the IRB approach. To address this issue, the author offers two simple adjustments to the current design of the output floor.

Originality/value

While studies have argued the idea of risk-sensitive regulatory capital, the author has not observed any research that empirically compares the risk-sensitivity of regulatory capital across retail credit exposures, which makes up a significant portion of many banks’ credit exposures. This study also highlights what appears to be a major point of concern for the output floor, which is set to be phased in starting January 2022. This is of particular value because this point has not appeared to receive any attention in the literature thus far.
Malaysian Enhanced Movement Control Order (EMCO): a unique and impactful approach to combating pandemic COVID-19
Authors: Hassan Mohd Rohaizat , Subahir Mohd Nizam , Rosli Linayanti , Che Mat Din Shaharom Nor Azian , Ismail Nor Zaher , Bahuri Nor Hana Ahmad , Ibrahim Farha , Othman Naffisah , Abas Zulfikri , Mohammed Nawi Azmawati
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The paper highlights the process-handling during the Enhanced Movement Control Order (EMCO) in combating pandemic COVID-19 in Malaysia.

Design/methodology/approach

Malaysia first issued an EMCO following a cluster that involved a religious gathering. The EMCO was issued to lockdown the area, undertake screening, treat positive cases and quarantine their close contacts. Active case detection and mass sampling were the main activities involving the population in both zones.

Findings

One hundred ninety-three confirmed COVID-19 cases were identified from the total population of 2,599. Of these cases, 99.5% were Malaysians, 31.7% were aged >60 years and all four deaths (Case Fatality Rate, 2.1%) were elderly people with comorbidities. One hundred and one cases (52.3%) were asymptomatic, of which 77 (77%) were detected during mass sampling. The risk factors contributing to the outbreak were contacts that had attended the religious gathering, regular mosque congregants, wedding ceremony attendees and close household contacts. Malaysia implemented an effective measure in the form of the EMCO to contain the COVID-19 outbreak, where the last cases were reported 16 days before the EMCO was lifted.

Originality/value

The residents’ compliance and inter-agency cooperation were essential elements to the success of the EMCO. A targeted approach using an EMCO should be implemented in a future pandemic.
Agile learning strategies to compete in an uncertain business environment
Authors: Armanious Michael , Padgett Jared D.
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to explore what agile learning strategies businesses need to develop agile core competencies to respond to the uncertainty of the rapidly changing business environment and sustain their competitive advantage. Technology advances and unexpected crises have created an ever-changing environment in which traditional static corporate training methods have failed to continuously provide employees with the ability to listen to and interpret the rapid changes and respond accordingly.

Design/methodology/approach

This qualitative exploratory multi-case study was useful to explore what agile learning strategies businesses need to develop agile core competencies to sustain their competitive advantage. Snowball sampling enabled the discovery of 15 participants who represented 10 different industries. Participants represented both management and non-management roles. Data were collected from multiple sources such as interviews, observations, researcher notes and document reviews. A thematic analysis model was used to analyze the collected data.

Findings

The findings substantiated that organizations are operating in a fast-changing environment where agile learning strategies are vital to surviving. The data also showed that agile learning strategies must include individual learning paths to continuously develop employees’ agile skills to build their organizations’ agile core competencies.

Originality/value

This study underlined the importance of adopting agile learning strategies to help employees listen and accurately interpret their organizations’ external environments to enable quick responses to changes. Without agile learning strategies, organizational agile core competencies and competitive advantage will progressively decline.