bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Linkage Mapping for Foliar Necrosis of Soybean Sudden Death Syndrome
Authors: Chang Hao-Xun , Wen Zixiang , Tan Ruijuan , Dong Hongxu , Wickland Daniel P. , Wang Dechun , Chilvers Martin I.
Published: December 2019

Sudden death syndrome (SDS) foliar symptoms consist of foliar chlorosis, foliar necrosis, leaf marginal curling, and premature defoliation, but resistance screening has been evaluated mostly based on the overall SDS foliar severity rather than on a specific foliar symptom. This study generated an F2 population derived from crossing the susceptible variety Sloan and the resistant germplasm line PI 243518, which exhibits resistance to both foliar chlorosis and necrosis. A total of 400 F2 lines were evaluated for foliar chlorosis, foliar necrosis, and overall SDS foliar symptoms, separately. Genotyping-by-sequencing was applied to obtain single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the F2 population, and linkage mapping using 135 F2 lines with 969 high-quality SNPs identified a locus on chromosome 13 for foliar necrosis and SDS foliar symptoms. The locus partially overlaps with loci previously reported for SDS on chromosome 13, which is the third time the region from 15.98 to 21.00 Mbp has been reproduced independently and therefore qualifies this locus for a new nomenclature proposed as Rfv13-02. In summary, this study generated a new biparental population that enables not only the discovery of a locus for foliar necrosis and SDS foliar symptoms on chromosome 13 but also the potential for advanced exploration of SDS foliar resistance derived from the germplasm line PI 243518.
Acute environmental hypoxia potentiates satellite cell‐dependent myogenesis in response to resistance exercise through the inflammation pathway in human
Authors: Britto Florian A. , Gnimassou Olouyoumi , De Groote Estelle , Balan Estelle , Warnier Geoffrey , Everard Amandine , Cani Patrice D. , Deldicque Louise
Published: December 2019

Acute environmental hypoxia may potentiate muscle hypertrophy in response to resistance training but the mechanisms are still unknown. To this end, twenty subjects performed a 1‐leg knee extension session (8 sets of 8 repetitions at 80% 1 repetition maximum, 2‐min rest between sets) in normoxic or normobaric hypoxic conditions (FiO2 14%). Muscle biopsies were taken 15 min and 4 hours after exercise in the vastus lateralis of the exercised and the non‐exercised legs. Blood samples were taken immediately, 2h and 4h after exercise. In vivo, hypoxic exercise fostered acute inflammation mediated by the TNFα/NF‐κB/IL‐6/STAT3 (+333%, +194%, + 163% and +50% respectively) pathway, which has been shown to contribute to satellite cells myogenesis. Inflammation activation was followed by skeletal muscle invasion by CD68 (+63%) and CD197 (+152%) positive immune cells, both known to regulate muscle regeneration. The role of hypoxia‐induced activation of inflammation in myogenesis was confirmed in vitro. Acute hypoxia promoted myogenesis through increased Myf5 (+300%), MyoD (+88%), myogenin (+1816%) and MRF4 (+489%) mRNA levels in primary myotubes and this response was blunted by siRNA targeting STAT3. In conclusion, our results suggest that hypoxia could improve muscle hypertrophic response following resistance exercise through IL‐6/STAT3‐dependent myogenesis and immune cells‐dependent muscle regeneration.
Differences in Opinions About Marijuana Use and Prevalence of Use by State Legalization Status
Authors: Steigerwald Stacey , Cohen Beth E. , Vali Marzieh , Hasin Deborah , Cerda Magdalena , Keyhani Salomeh
Published: December 2019

Objective:

Beliefs about marijuana use and prevalence of use may be associated with the legalization status of the state of residence. We examined differences in views and rates of use of marijuana among residents in recreationally legal, medically legal, and nonlegal states.

Methods:

We surveyed a nationally representative online panel of US adults (N = 16,280) and stratified results by marijuana legalization status of states. We compared views of residents of recreational states on benefits and risks of marijuana use to residents in other states.

Results:

The response rate was 56.3% (n = 9003). Residents in recreationally legal states were more likely to believe marijuana could be beneficial for pain management (73% in recreationally legal states, 67% in medically legal states, 63% in nonlegal states; P value: <0.0001), provide relief from stress, anxiety or depression (52% in recreationally legal states, 47% in medically legal states, 46% in nonlegal states; P value: 0.01), and improve appetite (39% in recreationally legal states, 36% in medically legal states, 33% in nonlegal states; P value: <0.009). In addition, residents in recreational states were significantly more likely to believe that smoking 1 marijuana joint a day is somewhat or much safer than smoking 1 cigarette a day (40.8% in recreationally legal states, 39.1% in medically legal states, and 36.1% in nonlegal states; P value: <0.0001). Residents of recreationally and medically legal states were more likely to believe second-hand marijuana smoke was somewhat or much safer than second-hand tobacco smoke (38.3% in recreationally legal states, 38.3% in medically legal states, and 35.7% in nonlegal states; P value: 0.003). Past-year marijuana use in any form (20% in recreational, 14.1% in medical, 12% in nonlegal) and past-year marijuana use of multiple forms (11.1% in recreational, 6.1% in medical, 4.9% in nonlegal) were highest among residents of recreationally legal states. Overall, prevalence of past-year use of any form of marijuana use was more common among residents of recreationally legal states compared with other states (20.3%, confidence interval [CI] 19.5, 21.1 in recreationally legal states; 15.4%, CI 14.7, 16.2 in medically legal states; 11.9%, CI 11.2, 12.6 in nonlegal states).

Conclusions:

Residents in recreationally legal states were most likely to believe marijuana has benefits, marijuana smoke is safer than tobacco smoke, and have the highest rate of marijuana use. This is cause for concern, given the tide of commercialization, growing number of high-potency cannabis products, and favorable media coverage promoting use for health problems.
Incidence, risk factors and outcomes of avascular necrosis occurring after humeral lateral condyle fractures
Authors: Shabtai Lior , Lightdale-Miric Nina , Rounds Alexis , Arkader Alexandre , Pace J. Lee
Published: December 2019

Avascular necrosis (AVN) of the distal humerus is a known complication of lateral condyle fractures yet the specific rate of occurrence is unknown. The purposes of this study are to analyze the incidence, outcomes, and risk factors for AVN following lateral condyle fractures. A retrospective chart review of children diagnosed with a lateral condyle fracture between 2001 and 2014 at level-1 tertiary pediatric center was completed. Demographic data, Weiss classification, time from injury to surgery, operative vs. nonoperative management, open vs. closed reduction, and type of fixation were studied. For patients with radiographs consistent with AVN at any point in their care, elbow range of motion (ROM), pain, and deformity were measured at last follow up. Of the 500 patients evaluated, the incidence of AVN was 1.4%. All cases of AVN were following open reduction and percutaneous fixation (P = 0.01) as initial treatment. Type III fractures were significantly associated with AVN (P = 0.041). After average follow up of 59 weeks (range: 24–150 weeks), all patients regain full ROM except one patient who lacked of 15° of extension and 10° of flexion. Five patients were asymptomatic while two patients had mild pain. There was no radiographic evidence of valgus or varus deformity at final follow up. AVN following lateral condyle fractures is rare with a rate of only 1.4%. Type III fractures and open reduction were significantly associated with AVN. Provided no residual deformity and reconstitution of avascular bone, good outcomes can be expected.
Clinicoradiological outcomes following single-stage treatment using external fixator, copious bone grafting and high dose antibiotics for infected postosteomyelitic nonunion of femoral shaft
Authors: Agarwal Anil , Yogendra Raj Rahul , Shanker Mukesh
Published: December 2019

We aimed to study clinical and radiological outcomes following a ‘single-stage protocol’ in postosteomyelitic-infected nonunion of the femur in children. The report is based on a retrospective chart review (2010–2018) of 10 children below 12 years of age presenting with nonunion following a pathological fracture after osteomyelitis of hematogenous origin treated with above-mentioned operative modality. All patients were grade A (normal host) on the basis of the physiological classification. Patients with posttraumatic or surgical osteomyelitis were excluded. All patients were treated with a combination of debridement of dead bone and necrotic tissues, acute bone docking, use of external fixator and addition of copious nonvascularized autogenous bone graft obtained from fibula/tibia. The postsurgical period was covered by high dose broad spectrum antibiotics for 6 weeks. At follow up, union, infection, deformity, leg-length discrepancy, motion of hip and knee and ability to perform unaided walking was recorded. Mean age for studied patients (five males and five females) was 6.6 years. Average time elapsed since pathological fracture was 7.7 months (range: 3–15 months). MRSA and MSSA were cultured in three and four patients, respectively. Union occurred in all patients with average time of 3.7 months and total follow up being 2.9 years (range: 1–7 years). There was persistence of deep infection despite union in three patients. Average limb shortening was 4.3 cm (range: 2–7 cm). The knee motion was severely restricted (≤30°) in three patients. According to Paley’s criteria, there were 2 excellent, 4 good, 2 fair and 2 poor results. Single-stage protocol as described above is a usable option for postosteomyelitic femoral nonunions in children. Union occurred in all cases. Healing occurred in three patients despite the persistence of infection. The restriction of range of motion at knee and limb length discrepancy was main complication encountered with this procedure.
Usefulness of Radio Frequency Identification Device in Diagnosing Rotation of Motiva SmoothSilk Implants after Augmentation Mammoplasty
Authors: Mendonça Munhoz Alexandre , Chala Luciano , de Melo Giselle Guedes , Marques Filho Ary de Azevedo , Tucunduva Tatiana , Gemperli Rolf
Published: December 2019

Breast implant displacement has been described as a significant risk following augmentation mammoplasty. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is considered the method of choice for diagnosing implant complications, but it has its limits in assessing correct implant position and displacement. Motiva SmoothSilk/SilkSurface® Implants (MSS) are the first to incorporate a radio frequency identification device (RFID), which produces an imaging artifact in MRI sequences. Given the frequency of breast augmentation procedures and the recent US Food and Drug Administration prospective trial involving SS with RFID, further analysis of implant stability and diagnostic imaging methods to evaluate implant positioning is necessary. The objective of this study was to assess the use of MRI with this new RFID-containing implant as a new tool to assess correct implant positioning. The authors performed this technique in 5 patients (10 implants) undergoing primary breast augmentation or revision surgery with MSS implants (255–385 cc, mean = 325 cc). The average area and volume of the artifact were 15.7 cm2 and 31.75 cm3, respectively. All cases presented satisfactory results, with 1 case of implant displacement. Our clinical and radiological outcome demonstrated that RFID technology is a useful tool for correct visualization of the implant position and diagnosis of complications such as slight displacements or rotation. To our knowledge, this is the first RFID breast implant that has been objectively evaluated for MRI issues.
Eyelid Reconstruction
Authors: Alghoul Mohammed S. , Kearney Aaron M. , Pacella Salvatore J. , Purnell Chad A.
Published: December 2019

The goals of eyelid reconstruction are to provide adequate globe coverage, proper closing mechanics, preservation of tear film integrity, maintenance of an unobstructed visual field, and to recreate an aesthetically appealing eye. There are several requirements for an eyelid reconstruction to be considered “aesthetic.” Both lids have to be in proper position, with normal palpebral fissure width and height. The eyelid margin should be distinct from the preseptal segment. Tissues must be thin to blend seamlessly with local skin. Finally, the canthal angles must be sharp and crisp. In this paper, we provide a practical guide to simplify eyelid reconstruction. This is not an exhaustive review of all available reconstructive techniques; instead, this is a description of the techniques we have found effective that together can address many eyelid defects.
Improved Diagnostic Accuracy of Periprosthetic Breast Infection: Novel Application of the Alpha Defensin-1 Biomarker
Authors: Basta Marten N. , Liu Paul Y. , Kwan Daniel , Breuing Karl H. , Sullivan Rachel , Jehle Charles C. , Bass Jonathan L. , Zienowicz Richard J. , Schmidt Scott
Published: December 2019

Background:

Prompt, accurate diagnosis of breast implant infection is critical to minimizing patient morbidity. Bacterial culture false negative rate approaches 25%–30%, and better costeffective testing modalities are needed. Alpha defensin-1 (AD-1) is a neutrophil-mediated biomarker for microbial infection. With sensitivity/specificity of 97% and 96%, it has replaced culture as the preferred diagnostic modality for orthopedic periprosthetic infection, but has yet to be investigated in breast reconstruction. This pilot study compares the diagnostic performance of AD-1 to bacterial culture in suspected periprosthetic breast infection.

Methods:

Patients with prosthetic breast reconstruction and suspected periprosthetic infection were prospectively studied. Implant pocket fluid was analyzed with gram stain and culture, AD-1 assay, and adjunctive markers. Demographics, operative history, prosthetic characteristics, and antibiotic exposure were collected, and diagnostic performance of each test was compared.

Results:

Fifteen breasts with suspected periprosthetic breast infection were included, 10 (66.7%) of which were acutely infected. Gram stain correctly identified only 1 of 10 infections, whereas culture failed to identify 1 infection and reported equivocal/false-positives in 2 noninfected samples. AD-1, however, correctly classified all 15 samples. AD-1 exhibited 100% sensitivity and specificity, comparing favorably to culture (sensitivity: 90%, specificity: 60%), although this did not reach significance (P=0.22). Infected breasts also demonstrated significantly higher adjunctive marker levels compared to noninfected breasts.

Conclusions:

This study demonstrates the utility of AD-1 in diagnosing periprosthetic breast infection. Combining AD-1 with adjunctive inflammatory markers may allow more accurate, prompt detection of implant infection which may reduce morbidity and reconstructive failures.
Chest Tube Management for Pleural Disease in Pediatrics
Authors: Cooper Jessica , Browne Nancy
Published: December 2019

Pleural disease involves a specific component of the respiratory system—the pleura. Treatment of pleural disease frequently involves drainage of the pleural space to return pressure dynamics, and thus respiratory function, to a normal state. This article discusses the contribution of the pleura to healthy respiratory function, diseases of the pleural system, and treatment of pleural disease, with specific attention to drainage by chest tube in the pleural space. Complications and troubleshooting of drainage systems will be discussed. Finally, how to manage pleural disease and treatments within the context of patient- and family-centered care are reviewed.
Improving Pediatric Patient Readiness for Gastrostomy Placement via Caregiver's Preconsult Involvement
Authors: Albin Dawn , McCormick Christa
Published: December 2019

Introduction

Patients and families referred for gastrostomy tube placement were rarely informed or prepared for the presurgical evaluations required to schedule surgery. These requirements are embedded in a Gastrostomy Readiness Checklist (GRC) that must be completed before scheduling surgery. The GRC was intended to be initiated by the referring provider, yet this was rarely done. As a result, registered nurses (RNs) assumed responsibility for the GRC. Families were often dissatisfied with the need for additional appointments and delayed surgery scheduling. The purpose of this quality improvement project was to increase readiness for surgery by better preparing families for the consult, while decreasing RN involvement in the GRC.

Methods

The GRC was placed on a Web-based platform that schedulers asked parents to complete before the consult. A standard process was created for RNs to obtain orders for presurgical evaluations so all appointments could be scheduled on the same day.

Results

GRC initiation increased 38% by transitioning it to caregivers. The need for additional presurgical visits decreased 62%. The ability to immediately schedule surgery increased 36%. RN clinic preparation time decreased by 28%.

Discussion

Implementation of a standard process for coordinating presurgical evaluations improved readiness to schedule surgery at the time of consult and reduced the need for additional clinic visits. Giving families advanced access to the GRC increased knowledge of gastrostomy placement requirements. RNs' satisfaction increased with more time available for other patient care priorities. There is an opportunity to improve GRC initiation by families through better training of the scheduling team.
Effect of Malnutrition on Hearing Loss in Children
Authors: Close Michaela F. , Mehta Charmee H. , van Swol Josh , Dornhoffer James R. , Liu Yuan F. , Nguyen Shaun A. , McRackan Theodore R. , Meyer Ted A.
Published: December 2019

Objective:

To characterize the relation between protein-calorie malnutrition (PCM) and hearing loss (HL) in children.

Study Design:

Retrospective review.

Setting:

Tertiary referral hospital.

Patients:

Children in the Audiological and Genetic Database with a diagnosis of protein-calorie malnutrition, marasmus, and/or kwashiorkor.

Interventions:

None.

Main Outcome Measures:

Prevalence, type, severity (4-tone pure-tone average, PTA), and progression of HL.

Results:

Of 770 children with PCM, 57.8% had HL, compared to 45.5% of children without PCM (p < 0.001). Severely malnourished children had significantly higher odds of moderate-profound HL (aOR 2.27, 95% CI 1.47–3.43), high-frequency HL (aOR 1.82, 95% CI 1.21–2.75), and sensorineural or mixed HL (aOR 1.60, 95% CI 1.05–2.41) compared to children without PCM. Severely malnourished children had significantly worse initial (35.0 dB vs 25.0 dB, p < 0.001), and final median PTA (31.3 dB vs 20.0 dB, p < 0.001) compared to children without PCM. Additionally, HL in children who were moderately and severely malnourished was significantly less likely to improve (aOR 0.47, 95% CI 0.25–0.82 and aOR 0.4, 95% CI 0.2–0.9) when compared to those without PCM.

Conclusions:

Given the greater prevalence and severity of hearing loss, children with PCM should be considered an at-risk group for poor audiological outcomes, and clinical practice should focus on early treatment and intervention for malnourished children. Routine audiological evaluation should be considered in this population.
Association of Primary Language and Hospitalization for Ambulatory Care Sensitive Conditions
Authors: Anderson Timothy S. , Karliner Leah S. , Lin Grace A.
Published: December 2019

Background:

Limited English proficiency is associated with decreased access to ambulatory care, however, it is unclear if this disparity leads to increased use of emergency departments (EDs) for low severity ambulatory care sensitive conditions (ACSCs).

Objective:

We sought to determine the association between the patient’s preferred language and hospital utilization for ACSCs.

Research Design:

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of all ED visits in New Jersey in 2013 and 2014. The primary outcome was hospital admission for acute ACSCs, chronic ACSCs, and fractures (a nonambulatory care sensitive control condition). Secondary outcomes included intensive care unit (ICU) utilization and length of stay. Mixed-effect regression models estimated the association between preferred language (English vs. non-English) and study outcomes, controlling for demographics, comorbidities, and hospital characteristics.

Results:

We examined 201,351 ED visits for acute ACSCs, 251,193 visits for chronic ACSCs, and 148,428 visits for fractures, of which 13.5%, 11.1%, and 9.9%, respectively, were by non-English speakers. In adjusted analyses, non-English speakers were less likely to be admitted for acute ACSCs [−3.1%; 95% confidence interval (CI), −3.6% to −2.5%] and chronic ACSCs (−2.3%; 95% CI, −2.8% to −1.7%) but not fractures (0.4%; 95% CI, −0.2% to 1.0%). Among hospitalized patients, non-English speakers were less likely to receive ICU services but had no difference in length of stay.

Conclusions:

These findings suggest non–English-speaking patients may seek ED care for lower acuity ACSCs than English-speaking patients. Efforts to decrease preventable ED and increase access to ambulatory care use should consider the needs of non–English-speaking patients.
Perioperative Outcome Differences Between Pain Management Protocols in Cleft Alveolar Bone Grafting
Authors: Patel Viren , Yang Robin , Paine Kaitlyn M. , Low David W. , Taylor Jesse A. , Jackson Oksana A.
Published: December 2019

Purpose:

Postoperative hip pain is commonly reported after anterior iliac crest harvest for alveolar bone grafting. The goal of this study is to describe our institution's experience and examine the efficacy of our pain management protocols.

Methods:

A retrospective review was performed by abstracting demographic, operative, and pain management data from January 2011 to April 2013. Paired t-tests and Fisher exact tests were used to examine differences when comparing 2 groups, while ANOVA was used to examine difference between the 3 protocols for harvest and pain management: trapdoor technique and local anesthetic injection (TD+LAI), TD and pain catheter (TD+PC), and split crest and LAI.

Results:

Eighty-four patients, 52 males (61.9%), averaging 8.8 years old (±2.9) were included. Postoperatively, 17 (71%) patients in the PC group received IV narcotics compared to 27 (45%) in those without a PC (P = .03). When comparing all 3 protocols, no significant difference was found in IV morphine usage or duration of IV morphine treatment. In subgroup analysis, when patients in the groups TD+PC versus TD+LAI were examined, those in the TD+PC group had significantly shorter hospital stays and were more likely to go home postoperative day 1 (P = .03; P = .04).

Conclusions:

Overall, patients tolerated alveolar bone grafting well regardless of harvest technique or pain management approach. While indwelling PCs did not significantly decrease IV morphine usage, these patients had significantly shorter lengths of stays.
Perioperative Risk Factors for Radial Forearm-Free Flap Complications
Authors: Wang Chengli , Fu Ganglan , Ji Fengtao , Cheng Shi , Liu Zhongqi , Cao Minghui
Published: December 2019

Purpose:

To determine perioperative risk factors predicted complications in elderly Chinese patients undergoing oral and maxillofacial reconstruction with radial forearm free flaps (RFFF).

Patients and Methods:

The authors implemented a retrospective study and enrolled a sample of patients at least 65-year old who underwent resection of oral and maxillofacial tumors and RFFF reconstruction from January 2011 to June 2018. Predictor variables were divided into: demographic variables (gender, age, weight, comorbidities, history of smoking, radiotherapy history, primary lesions); hemodynamic (preoperative and postoperative hemoglobin and albumin level, blood loss, blood transfusion, urine output (mL), and rate (mL/kg/h), and infusion rates for crystalloids and colloids (mL/kg/h, and volumes given intraoperatively and postoperatively for 24 hours); anesthetic and surgical (American Society of Anesthesiologists classification, visual analogue score, duration of tourniquet, and operation). The primary outcome was the presence of postoperative complications (yes/no), and secondary outcome was types of complications (medical and surgical). All the variables were analyzed by univariate and multivariable analysis and statistical significance was set at a P < 0.05

Results:

The study sample was composed of 118 patients with a mean age of 72 years. There were 15 complications, of which 9 were surgical and 6 medical. Risk factors were: postoperative hypoproteinemia, crystal in 24 hours, and hypertension combined with diabetes.

Conclusions:

Although reconstruction with a RFFF is a common and safe treatment for elderly patients with oral and maxillofacial tumors, postoperative hypoproteinemia, crystal in 24 hours, and hypertension combined with diabetes are potential predictors of postoperative complications.
Parapharyngeal Alveolar Soft Part Sarcoma in a 5-Year-Old Child
Authors: Hakeem Arsheed H. , Patel Balaji K. , Swain Meenakshi , Javaid Hassaan
Published: December 2019

Alveolar soft part sarcoma (ASPS) is a rare malignancy of head and neck region; orbit and tongue being most common subsites affected by this rare tumor. A 5-year-old female presented with computed tomography scan evidence of right-sided prestyloid parapharyngeal mass. Complete excision was performed through trans-cervical approach. Histopathology, special stain, and immunohistochemistry of the resected specimen confirmed the diagnosis of ASPS. Three-year follow-up did not reveal any local recurrence or distant metastases. Review of the English-language scientific literature did not reveal any documented case of parapharyngeal space ASPS in pediatric age. Only 1 clinical report of ASPS in a 42-year-old female has been documented.
Phenotypic characterization of Neisseria meningitidis strains isolated from invasive meningococcal disease in Brazil from 2002 to 2017
Authors: Gorla Maria Cecília , Brandao Angela Pires , Pinhata Juliana Maira Watanabe , de Moraes Camile , Pereira Gabriela , Lemos Ana Paula
Published: December 2019

Introduction
. Invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) has a high rate of fatality and may cause severe clinical sequelae. Over the years, the epidemiology of IMD has changed significantly in various regions of the world, and laboratory surveillance of this disease is important for mapping epidemiologic changes.

Aim. To perform phenotypic characterization of

Neisseria meningitidis

strains isolated from invasive disease in Brazil from 2002 to 2017, as a complementation of the data obtained in the period of 1990–2001.

Methodology
. In total, 8,689 isolates sent to Adolfo Lutz Institute confirmed as

N. meningitidis

by conventional methods were serogrouped by slide agglutination against MenA, MenB, MenC, MenE, MenW, MenX, MenY and MenZ; serotyped and serosubtyped by a whole-cell dot-blotting assay with monoclonal antibodies.

Results
. The isolates were sent from all regions of Brazil, and the southeast region was responsible for the largest number of isolates (57.2 %). Overall, the total sample (n=8,689) was represented by serogroups C (n=4,729; 54.4 %), B (n=3,313; 38.1 %), W (n=423; 4.9 %), Y (n=203; 2.3 %), X (n=5; 0.1 %) and others (n=16; 0.2 %). A shift in the prevalence of serogroups was observed in 2006, when serogroup C became the most prevalent (65.5 %), surpassing the serogroup B (21.9 %). The main isolated phenotypes were C:23:P1.14–6; B:4,7:P1.19,15; W:2a:P1.5 and W:2a:P1.5,2.

Conclusion
. The data show an important change in the distribution of meningococcal serogroups, serotypes and subtypes occurring during 2002–2017. A continuous laboratory-based surveillance provides robust information to implement appropriate strategies to IMD control.
Phenotypic analysis of mutations at residue 146 provides insights into the relationship between NS5A hyperphosphorylation and hepatitis C virus genome replication
Authors: Goonawardane Niluka , Yin Chunhong , Harris Mark
Published: December 2019

The hepatitis C virus genotype 2a isolate, JFH-1, exhibits much more efficient genome replication than other isolates. Although basic replication mechanisms must be conserved, this raises the question of whether the regulation of replication might exhibit isolate- and/or genotype-specific characteristics. Exemplifying this, the phenotype of NS5A hyperphosphorylation is genotype-dependent; in genotype 1b a loss of hyperphosphorylation correlates with an enhancement of replication. In contrast, the replication of JFH-1 is not regulated by hyperphosphorylation. We previously identified a novel phosphorylation site in JFH-1 NS5A: S146. A phosphomimetic substitution (S146D) had no effect on replication but correlated with a loss of hyperphosphorylation. In genotype 1b, residue 146 is alanine and we therefore investigated whether the substitution of A146 with a phosphorylatable (S), or phosphomimetic, residue would recapitulate the JFH-1 phenotype, decoupling hyperphosphorylation from replication. This was not the case, as A146D exhibited both a loss of hyperphosphorylation and a reduction in replication, accompanied by a perinuclear restriction of replication complexes, reductions in lipid droplet and PI4P lipid accumulation, and a disruption of NS5A dimerization. In contrast, the S232I culture-adaptive mutation in the low-complexity sequence I (LCSI) also exhibited a loss of hyperphosphorylation, but was associated with an increase in replication. Taken together, these data imply that hyperphosphorylation does not directly regulate replication. In contrast, the loss of hyperphosphorylation is a consequence of perturbing genome replication and NS5A function. Furthermore, we show that mutations in either domain I or LCSI of NS5A can disrupt hyperphosphorylation, demonstrating that multiple parameters influence the phosphorylation status of NS5A.
Light-induced polyp retraction and tissue rupture in the photosensitive, reef-building coral Acropora muricata
Authors: Laissue Pierre Philippe , Gu Yan , Qian Chen , Smith David J.
Published: December 2019

Coral reefs are in alarming decline due to climate emergency, pollution and other man-made disturbances. The numerous ecosystem services derived from coral reefs are underpinned by the growth and physical complexity of reef-forming corals. Our knowledge of their fundamental biology is limited by available technology. We need a better understanding of larval settlement and development, skeletogenesis, interactions with pathogens and symbionts, and how this biology interacts with environmental factors such as light exposure, temperature, and ocean acidification. We here focus on a fast-growing key coloniser, Acropora muricata. To enable dynamic imaging of the photosensitive organism at different scales, we developed light-sheet illumination for fluorescence microscopy of small coral colonies. Our approach reveals live polyps in previously unseen detail. An imaging range for Acropora muricata with no measurable photodamage is defined based upon polyp expansion, coral tissue reaction, and photobleaching. We quantify polyp retraction as a photosensitive behavioural response and show sparse zooxanthellar expulsion and coral tissue rupture at higher intensities of blue light. The simple and flexible technique enables non-invasive continuous dynamic imaging of highly photosensitive organisms with sizes between 1 mm3 and 5 cm3, for eight hours, at high temporal resolution, on a scale from multiple polyps down to cellular resolution. This live imaging tool opens a new window into the dynamics of reef-building corals.
System-level analyses of keystone genes required for mammalian tooth development
Authors: Hallikas Outi , Roy Rishi Das , Christensen Mona M. , Renvoisé Elodie , Sulic Ana-Marija , Jernvall Jukka
Published: December 2019

When a null mutation of a gene causes a complete developmental arrest, the gene is typically considered essential for life. Yet, in most cases null mutations have more subtle effects on the phenotype. Here we used the phenotypic severity of mutations as a tool to examine system-level dynamics of gene expression. We classify genes required for the normal development of the mouse molar into different categories that range from essential to subtle modification of the phenotype. Collectively, we call these the developmental keystone genes. Transcriptome profiling using microarray and RNAseq analyses of patterning stage mouse molars show highly elevated expression levels for genes essential for the progression of tooth development, a result reminiscent of essential genes in single cell organisms. Elevated expression levels of progression genes were also detected in developing rat molars, suggesting evolutionary conservation of this system-level dynamics. Single-cell RNAseq analyses of developing mouse molars reveal that even though the size of the expression domain, measured in number of cells, is the main driver of organ-level expression, progression genes show high cell-level transcript abundances. Progression genes are also upregulated within their pathways, which themselves are highly expressed. In contrast, a high proportion of the genes required for normal tooth patterning are secreted ligands that are expressed in fewer cells than their receptors and intracellular components. Overall, even though expression patterns of individual genes can be highly different, conserved system-level principles of gene expression can be detected using phenotypically defined gene categories.
Depurination of colibactin-derived interstrand cross-links
Authors: Xue Mengzhao , Wernke Kevin M. , Herzon Seth B.
Published: December 2019

Colibactin is a genotoxic gut microbiome metabolite long suspected of playing an etiological role in colorectal cancer progression. Evidence suggests colibactin forms DNA interstrand cross-links (ICLs) in eukaryotic cells and activates ICL repair pathways, leading to the production of ICL-dependent DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs). Here we show that colibactin ICLs can evolve directly to DNA DSBs. Using the topology of supercoiled plasmid DNA as a proxy for alkylation adduct stability, we show that colibactin-derived ICLs are unstable toward depurination and elimination of the 3′ phosphate. This pathway leads progressively to the formation of nicks SSBs and cleavage DSBs and is consistent with the earlier determination that non-homologous end joining repair-deficient cells are sensitized to colibactin-producing bacteria. The results herein further our understanding of colibactin-derived DNA damage and underscore the complexities underlying the DSB phenotype.
Dorsal Premotor Cortex Involved in Hand Gesture Preparation in Macaques
Authors: Sun Guanghao , Zhang Shaomin , Wang Ruixue , Hao Yaoyao , Chen Weidong , Zheng Xiaoxiang
Published: December 2019

Reaching to grasp movement is thought to rely upon two independent brain pathways. The dorsomedial one is involved in reaching while the dorsolateral one is dealing with grasping. However, some recent evidences suggested that the dorsomedial pathway might participate in grasp movement. Therefore, it is important to investigate whether PMd is involved in grasp planning, and if participating, what kind of role PMd played in grasp planning. In this study, two macaques monkeys were trained to grasp same object by instructing or freely choosing one of two grips, power grip or hook grip. A 96-channel microelectrode array was implanted to collect the population activity of PMd in each subject. Both single unit activity and population activity were analyzed. We found that nearly 21.0% and 26.8% units in PMd of two monkeys displayed grip selectivity during gesture planning in both instructing or freely choosing conditions. These units exhibit selectivity for different gestures when facing the identical visual stimuli (freely choosing condition). At the same time, similar activity patterns are displayed for the same gesture when faced with different selection strategies (freely choosing condition vs. instructing condition). These results show that some neurons of PMd are mainly involved in the hand shape preparation and have no obvious relationship with external visual stimuli and selection strategies.
MLL4 is required for the first embryonic collective cell migration whereas MLL3 is not required until birth
Authors: Ashokkumar Deepthi , Zhang Qinyu , Much Christian , Bledau Anita S. , Fu Jun , Anastassiadis Konstantinos , Stewart A. Francis , Kranz Andrea
Published: December 2019

Methylation of histone 3 lysine 4 (H3K4) is a major epigenetic system associated with gene expression. In mammals there are six H3K4 methyltransferases related to yeast Set1 and fly Trithorax, including two orthologs of fly Trithorax-related: MLL3 and MLL4. Exome sequencing has documented high frequencies ofMll3andMll4mutations in many types of human cancer. Despite this emerging importance, the requirements of these sister genes in mammalian development have only been incompletely reported. Here we examined the null phenotypes to establish that MLL3 is first required for lung maturation whereas MLL4 is first required for migration of the anterior visceral endoderm (AVE) that initiates gastrulation and is the first collective cell migration in development. This migration is preceded by a columnar to squamous transition in visceral endoderm cells that depends on MLL4. Furthermore,Mll4mutants display incompletely penetrant, sex distorted, embryonic haploinsufficiency and adult heterozygous mutants show aspects of Kabuki syndrome, indicating that MLL4 action, unlike MLL3, is dosage dependent. The highly specific and discordant functions of these sister genes argues against their action as general enhancer factors.

Summary statement

The H3K4 methyltransferases MLL3 and MLL4 have strikingly different null phenotypes during mouse development; MLL3 is required for lung maturation whereas MLL4 is required for anterior visceral endoderm migration.
6,6′-[(3,3′-Di-tert-butyl-5,5′-dimethoxy-1,1′-biphenyl-2,2′-diyl)bis(oxy)]bis(dibenzo[d,f][1,3,2]dioxaphosphepine) benzene monosolvate
Authors: Leidecker Benedict N. , Kubis Christoph , Spannenberg Anke , Franke Robert , Börner Armin
Published: December 2019

The crystal structure of the benzene monosolvate of the well known organic diphosphite ligand BIPHEPHOS, C46H44O8P2·C6H6, is reported for the first time. Single crystals of BIPHEPHOS were obtained from a benzene solution after layering with n-heptane at room temperature. One specific property of this type of diphosphite structure is the twisting of the biphenyl units. In the crystal, C—H...π contacts and π–π stacking interactions [centroid-to-centroid distance = 3.8941 (15) Å] are observed.
Decentralized fuzzy C-means robust algorithm for continuous systems
Authors: Chen Tim , Chen J.C.Y.
Published: December 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to address the robust controller design problem for a class of fuzzy C-means clustering algorithm that is robust against both the plant parameter perturbations and controller gain variations. Based on Takagi–Sugeno (T-S) fuzzy model description, the stability and control problems of nonlinear systems are studied.

Design/methodology/approach

A recently proposed integral inequality is selected based on the free-weight matrix, and the less conservative stability criterion is given in the form of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs).

Findings

Under the premise that the controller and the system share the same, the method does not require the number of membership functions and rules.

Practical implications

Furthermore, the modified controller in a large-scale nonlinear system is utilized as a stability criterion for a closed-loop T-S fuzzy system obtained by LMI, and is rearranged by a machine learning membership function.

Originality/value

The closed-loop controller criterion is derived by energy functions to guarantee the stability of systems. Finally, an example is given to demonstrate the results.
Service recovery satisfaction and customer commitment in the airline business
Authors: Matikiti Rosemary , Mpinganjira Mercy , Roberts-Lombard Mornay
Published: December 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the precursors and outcomes of service recovery satisfaction and customer commitment among airline business customers.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from airline travellers in South Africa using a structured questionnaire. Structural equation modelling was used to analyse the proposed hypotheses.

Findings

The results revealed that recovery expectations and perceived equity exert significant influence on levels of recovery satisfaction, which in turn influence overall satisfaction, trust and commitment. The study also revealed that trust and overall satisfaction are antecedents of customer commitment and that customer commitment has a significant positive relationship with positive word of mouth. It was also established that the quality of past service performance moderates the relationship between recovery satisfaction and commitment.

Practical implications

Airlines are advised to stimulate customer trust in the service delivery process through transparency in the procedures by which they resolve service failures and to remain committed to their service recovery promises to customers. It is also proposed that airlines should secure increased positive word of mouth through offering satisfactory service recovery.

Originality/value

Very little research in the South African context exists which focusses on the influence of customers satisfaction and commitment in the airline industry. This paper helps in establishing the antecedents of customer commitment after service failure in the airline industry.
The struggles for land rights by rural women in sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Massay Godfrey
Published: December 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide examples of how rural women in Tanzania have addressed land rights challenges, showcasing three interventions implemented by Tanzanian Civil Society Organizations. It demonstrates that women have used both legal and traditional systems to negotiate and mediate their claims to land. Although the interventions featured have been greatly shaped by the work of civil society organizations, they have equally been influenced by rural women movements and individual rural women. The cases selected provide understanding of women’s land rights issues in both privately and communally held property/land.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper presents literature review of the existing secondary data on the subject coupled with the interviews.

Findings

Informal and formal approaches have been used by rural women to negotiate their claims on both communal and private lands. CSOs have equally shaped the approaches employed by rural women.

Research limitations/implications

This research was mainly based on the secondary data and few key interviews. There is a need to conduct further analysis of the issues.

Practical implications

This paper highlights the role of CSOs in improving the participation of women in decision-making bodies. The wave of large-scale land-based investments has caused insecurity of land tenure for women. The paper shows some ways to address the problem in communal lands.

Social implications

Socially, the papers shows the power relations involved in the struggles over land, as well as the role of traditional systems and bylaws in protecting the rights of women.

Originality/value

The paper provides dynamics of gendered approach used by women to negotiate their claims in communally held lands. It also highlights the role and space of local and international CSOs in shaping the local context of resistance on land rights. It is a very useful paper for academics and practitioners working on land rights.
The impact of organisational culture, organisational structure and technological infrastructure on process improvement through knowledge sharing
Authors: Chión Sergio J. , Charles Vincent , Morales José
Published: December 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the mediator role that knowledge sharing plays between organisational culture, organisational structure, and technology infrastructure and process improvement in a knowledge management context in manufacturing enterprises operating in the food, beverage and textile industry.

Design/methodology/approach

An empirical study is conducted with a sample of 200 food, beverage and textile companies. Data are obtained by means of a survey questionnaire applied to general managers in each of the sample firms. The impact of the factors organisational culture, organisational structure and technology infrastructure on process improvement via knowledge sharing is assessed. Structural equation modelling and maximum likelihood estimation are applied to find the direction and strength of the relationships.

Findings

The main findings indicate the significant relationships between knowledge sharing and process improvement, between organisational culture and knowledge sharing, and between organisational structure and knowledge sharing. The relationship between technology infrastructure and knowledge sharing is found not to be significant.

Research limitations/implications

The findings of the present study are limited to the food, beverage and textile industry. Future research could incorporate data from other manufacturing sectors or service companies.

Practical implications

This study provides practical guidance for general managers who wish to implement process improvement programmes.

Originality/value

Several authors have noted that there are few research studies concerning the interaction between each phase of knowledge management and total quality management practices. This study is interested in knowledge sharing and its impact on process improvement in a knowledge management context.
A new discrete method for solution to consolidation problem of ground with vertical drains subjected to surcharge and vacuum loadings
Authors: Nghia-Nguyen Trong , Shukla Sanjay Kumar , Nguyen Dang Dinh Chung , Lam Le Gia , H-Dang Phuoc , Nguyen Phu-Cuong
Published: December 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to present a new discrete method to predict average excess pore pressure and degree of consolidation for soft ground using prefabricated vertical drains under time-dependent surcharge and/or vacuum loading and multi-soil layers.

Design/methodology/approach

The drain is discretized into a number of mesh points at which the average excess pore pressure is estimated. The conventional Laplace technique is used to solve the analytical equations. The proposed method is validated with previous findings reported in the literature. Moreover, field measurements are used to verify the accuracy of the proposed method with a case history of ground improvement by prefabricated vertical drains using the vacuum consolidation technique.

Findings

In comparison to past studies, this new discrete method is simpler to be implemented in a spreadsheet calculation to achieve a rational solution with less computational time for similar consolidation problems. Moreover, the current approach also incorporates a solution for multi-soil layers, which can hardly be derived by analytical solutions.

Originality/value

According to authors’ knowledge, this is the first-time discrete method by Laplace transform technique is applied for the vertical drain.