bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The transformative leadership compass: six competencies for digital transformation entrepreneurship
Authors: Schiuma Giovanni , Schettini Eva , Santarsiero Francesco , Carlucci Daniela
Published: May 2021

Purpose

In the digital age, companies require leaders to foster digital transformation entrepreneurship, i.e. the organisational attitude and orientation of the creation of a new business or the development of an existing business by having at the core or embracing digital transformation as the continuous development and application of digital knowledge for companies' value creation. This paper identifies six critical competencies distinguishing the transformative leadership profile supporting enterprises' digital transformation development.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper, through a critical literature review focussing on three research streams, i.e. wise, transformative and digital leadership, addresses the following research question: What competencies characterise a digital transformative leader promoting and encouraging digital transformation entrepreneurship? Methodologically, first, explorative analysis of the literature has been carried out exploring the role and relevance of leadership in driving companies' digital transformation. Second, focussing on the three leadership perspectives, wise, transformative and digital, the critical features distinguishing each view have been identified. A set of hypotheses has been formulated to develop a framework to profile a digital transformative leader. In the third stage, the framework of the digital transformative leadership compass has been developed.

Findings

The paper profiles the digital transformative leader, a critical figure in companies competing in the digital age to nurture digital transformation entrepreneurship. Six specific competencies are synthesised and proposed throughout the transformative leadership compass. It is presented as an interpretative framework helpful to understand what affects the organisational culture and behaviours driving digital transformation. The proposed model defines theoretical foundations to operationalise an assessment framework and developing empirical research about leadership characteristics hampering and enabling successful companies' digital transformation.

Originality/value

The study proposes a novel framework based upon a critical analysis of the leadership literature. Combining insights gathered from the literature review on transformative, wise and digital leadership, the need for nurturing a transformative digital leadership allowing enterprises to stay competitive and able to change and adapt to the scenario's evolution emerged. Accordingly, the paper defines the digital transformative leader as a leadership profile sustaining organisational and digital transformation. The transformative leadership compass is proposed as a model to outline the critical competencies distinguishing a digital transformative leader capable of driving continuous company innovation and specifically digital transformation entrepreneurship.
The influential factors and consequences of knowledge sharing for expatriates
Authors: Wu Wann-Yih , Lee Li-Yueh , Quynh Phan Nhu Vo , Qomariyah Alfiyatul , Nguyen Phuoc-Thien
Published: May 2021

Purpose

As the dynamic competition in the global marketplace becomes increasingly severe, multinational firms have no choice but to improve their competitive advantages and enhance productivity through innovation, learning and leadership. One essential issue is the capability of expatriates to support knowledge sharing and transfer from organizations headquarter to their subsidiaries through expatriates; however, there are few studies on this issue. This study attempts to identify the antecedents, consequences and moderators of knowledge sharing.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a questionnaire survey approach, data were obtained from 234 expatriates working for Taiwanese multinational enterprises. The hypotheses were tested by SmartPLS 3.0.

Findings

The empirical results indicate that opportunity and ability have a significant impact on expatriates' knowledge sharing. Trust, commitment and social capital also have significant influences on expatriates' collecting and donating of knowledge. The level of tacitness, specificity and complexity of knowledge have a negatively impact on knowledge sharing. Knowledge collecting can positively promote the outcome of knowledge sharing, including learning and growth, internal process, customer satisfaction, and financial performance. Furthermore, organizational support and the richness of transmission channels served as two of the moderators that can amplify the influences of the antecedents on knowledge sharing and the influences of knowledge sharing on outcomes.

Originality/value

The results of this study can provide valuable references for academicians and professionals when deciding how to facilitate knowledge transfer from the company headquarters to subsidiaries through expatriates.
Designing successful business strategies for private public partnerships: an ontological approach
Authors: Papagiannis Fragkoulis , Gazzola Patrizia , Slavata David , Grechi Daniele
Published: May 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present an innovative approach for the strategic design of public–private partnerships (PPP) and private finance initiatives (PFI) based on ontology.

Design/methodology/approach

Adopting a historic approach, it introduces a posteriori knowledge, deriving from the scheme’s stakeholders at the construction and implementation phase of PPPs. Continuous failures of these collaboration schemes and initiatives underline the necessity for a novel project structure. The conceptual argument is based both on empirical and epistemological approaches. It integrates the value-added (VA) of the ontological theory in the PPP/PFI business strategy.

Findings

The research emphasises contemporary design gaps of their current structure and proposes an ontological redesign. The proposed redesign produces a conceptually innovative scheme, which enhances the VA business strategies and their objectives to the structure of these collaborating schemes.

Practical implications

The ontological design of this paper is useful for academics and business consultants around the world and especially in Europe for the successful growth and development of such dynamic collaborations.

Originality/value

Enterprise ontology bridges conceptual and structural gaps of strategic objectives, which are primarily responsible for the failures of PPP collaboration.
Reciprocal plant‐mediated antagonism between a legume plant virus and soil rhizobia
Authors: Basu Saumik , Clark Robert E. , Blundell Robert , Casteel Clare L. , Charlton Akaisha M. , Crowder David W.
Published: May 2021

Beneficial plant‐associated soil microbes can promote plant tolerance to stress and promote nutrient uptake. Yet, the benefits of microbes for plant health can be altered by above‐ground stressors like herbivores and pathogens. However, few studies have assessed reciprocal plant‐mediated interactions between beneficial soil microbes and multiple above‐ground stressors.

We assessed if soil rhizobia influenced complex interactions among pea host plants, a vector herbivore (aphids) and a plant virus (Pea enation mosaic virus, PEMV). We also examined how aphids and PEMV affected the function of soil rhizobia.

We show that plants attacked by PEMV produced fewer root nodules and had lower fresh root nodule biomass per g of fresh plant root biomass, and decreased expression of genes associated with nodulation, suggesting PEMV inhibited nitrogen fixation by rhizobia. However, soil rhizobia decreased aphid abundance and PEMV titre on host plants, such that rhizobia decreased the susceptibility of plants to herbivores and pathogens.

Assays of amino acids, and gene expression related to hormone signalling, show interactions among rhizobia, plants, aphids and PEMV were mediated by plant defence and nutrients. Viruliferous aphids induced salicylic acid in plants, and salicylic acid suppressed the function of rhizobia. Aphids feeding on plants grown in rhizobia‐inoculated soil also obtained fewer essential amino acids than those feeding on plants grown in un‐inoculated sterilized soil.

Mutually antagonistic plant‐mediated interactions between soil microbes and above‐ground stressors affected plant susceptibility and herbivore nutrient uptake. This suggests ecological effects of soil microbes and above‐ground stressors for plant health will likely vary based on multi‐trophic plant‐mediated interactions among herbivores, pathogens and soil microbes.

A free Plain Language Summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article.
Do baseline AMH levels in women with polycystic ovary syndrome predict ovulation rate and time to ovulation: a secondary analysis of PCOSAct trial?
Authors: Wu Q , Li J , Ng EHY , Liu J‐P , Mol BWJ , Wu X‐K , Wang CC ,   PCOSAct Study Group
Published: May 2021

Objective

To assess the association of baseline anti‐Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels with ovulation, time to ovulation and fertility outcomes in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) receiving clomiphene citrate (CC) and compare this with placebo.

Design

Secondary analysis of the PCOSAct trial (NCT01573858).

Setting

27 trial centres in mainland China.

Population or sample

1000 infertile women with PCOS receiving either CC or placebo.

Methods

Baseline serum AMH was measured and analysed as a continuous and as a categorical variable. Interaction between AMH and CC was tested. Predictive values of AMH for ovulation, time to ovulation and fertility outcomes were assessed.

Main outcome measures

Ovulation and time to ovulation.

Results

900 baseline AMH data were available for analysis. There were no significant interactions with ovulation or conception for AMH and CC treatment (P = 0.782 and 0.419, respectively). Women in the upper quartile of AMH >15.88 ng/ml had significant lower ovulation (odds ratio [OR] 0.34, 95% CI 0.20–0.58) and conception rates (OR 0.65, 95% CI 0.42–1.00) compared with women in the lower quartile. Associations of AMH with clinical pregnancy (OR 0.98, 95% CI 0.95–1.01) and live birth (OR 0.98, 95% CI 0.96–1.01) were not significant. Ovulation rate increased until baseline AMH levels ≥7.0 ng/ml in women treated with CC but decreased when AMH increased in women with placebo. When AMH <7.0 ng/ml, an AMH threshold at 4.11 ng/ml predicted ovulation in women receiving CC (area under the curve [AUC] 0.64, 95% CI 0.42–0.86), with a sensitivity of 64% and a specificity of 62%, whereas prediction was poor for AMH ≥7.0 ng/ml (AUC 0.38, 95% CI 0.28–0.47). Median time to ovulation was 35 days in the lower quartile for women with placebo but this was significantly prolonged up to 98 days in the upper quartile. CC significantly shortened the time to ovulation up to 56 days.

Conclusions

Among women with PCOS, high baseline AMH levels were associated with a 20.1% lower chance of ovulation with a 63‐day longer time to ovulation. AMH can predict ovulation only when the baseline AMH level was <7.0 ng/ml in women with PCOS undergoing ovulation induction with CC.

Tweetable abstract

Ovulation rate increased until baseline AMH levels ≥7.0 ng/ml in women treated with CC; a successful ovulation and time to ovulation was highly associated with baseline AMH level in these women.
Attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder in children following prenatal exposure to antidepressants: results from the Norwegian mother, father and child cohort study
Authors: Lupattelli A , Mahic M , Handal M , Ystrom E , Reichborn‐Kjennerud T , Nordeng H
Published: May 2021

Objective

To determine the association between child attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and prenatal exposure to selective serotonin (SSRI) and serotonin‐norepinephrine (SNRI) reuptake inhibitor antidepressants, by timing and duration, with quantification of bias due to exposure misclassification.

Design

Norwegian Mother, Father and Child Cohort Study and national health registries.

Setting

Nationwide, Norway.

Population

A total of 6395 children born to women who reported depression/anxiety in pregnancy and were either medicated with SSRI/SNRI in pregnancy (n = 818) or non‐medicated (n = 5228), or did not report depression/anxiety but used antidepressants 6 months before pregnancy (discontinuers, n = 349).

Main outcome measure

Diagnosis of ADHD or filled prescription for ADHD medication in children, and mother‐reported symptoms of ADHD by child age 5 years.

Results

When the hazard was averaged over the duration of the study follow up, there was no difference in ADHD risk between ever in utero SSRI/SNRI‐exposed children and comparators (weighted hazard ratio [wHR] 1.07, 95% CI 0.76–1.51 versus non‐medicated; wHR 1.53, 95% CI 0.77–3.07 versus discontinuers). Underestimation of effects due to exposure misclassification was modest. In early childhood, the risk for ADHD was lower with prenatal SSRI/SNRI exposure compared with no exposure, and so were ADHD symptoms (weighted β −0.23, 95% CI −0.39 to −0.08); this risk became elevated at child age 7–9 years (wHR 1.93, 95% CI 1.22–3.05). Maternal depression/anxiety before pregnancy was independently associated with child ADHD.

Conclusion

Prenatal SSRI/SNRI exposure is unlikely to considerably increase the risk of child ADHD beyond that posed by maternal depression/anxiety. The elevated risk at child age 7–9 years needs to be elucidated.

Tweetable abstract

Women with depression who use antidepressants in pregnancy do not have greater risk of having children with ADHD. Findings in school‐age children needs follow up.
Limiting the distortionary effects of transaction taxes: Scottish stamp duty after the Mirrlees Review
Authors: Borbely Daniel
Published: May 2021

We investigate the distortionary effects of transaction taxes through a case study of the Scottish residential property market. We make use of four sources of variation in transaction tax rates present in recent Scottish tax systems: (1) jumps in tax liabilities at tax thresholds; (2) jumps in marginal tax rates at thresholds; (3) a tax announcement that created temporary tax saving opportunities; and (4) a shift to a more progressive transaction tax regime. Our results indicate that market participants are highly responsive to tax changes and are willing to change the price and timing of transactions when tax savings opportunities are present. We also find that progressive reform had a significant positive effect on transaction activity in the market segment where tax rates were reduced. However, the higher end of the market, where tax rates increased, was mostly unaffected by progressive reform, with the exception of the market for very expensive properties, where a negative effect is identified. Implications of our findings are that if governments want to make transaction tax regimes more efficient, progressive taxation might be a good way to limit distortionary effects, whilst also encouraging transaction activity in the lower end of the market.
Evaluation of the Allied Health Rural Generalist Program 2017‐2019
Authors: Barker Ruth , Chamberlain‐Salaun Jennifer , Harrison Helena , Nash Robyn , Nielsen Ilsa , Harvey Desley , Sim Jenny , Ciccone Natalie , Carr Jennifer , Bird Katrina , Palermo Claire , Devine Sue
Published: May 2021

Objective

To evaluate the development and implementation of the Allied Health Rural Generalist Program, a two‐level online post‐graduate education program, which includes Level 1, an entry‐level non‐award pathway program, and Level 2, a Graduate Diploma in Rural Generalist Practice.

Design

A convergent mixed methodology evaluation in two overlapping stages: a process evaluation on quality and reach, together with a mixed method case study evaluation on benefits, of the program.

Setting

Rural and remote Australia across ten sites and seven allied health professions: dietetics; occupational therapy; pharmacy; physiotherapy; podiatry; radiography; speech pathology.

Participants

Process evaluation included 91 participants enrolled in all or part of the Rural Generalist Program. Case study evaluation included 50 managers, supervisors and Rural Generalist Program participants from the ten study sites.

Interventions

The Allied Health Rural Generalist Program.

Main outcome measures

Process evaluation data were derived from enrolment data and education evaluation online surveys. Case study data were gathered via online surveys and semi‐structured interviews. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected concurrently, analysed separately and then integrated to identify consistency, expansion or discordance across the data.

Results

The Rural Generalist Program was viewed as an effective education program that provided benefits for Rural Generalist Program participants, employing organisations and consumers. Key improvements recommended included increasing profession‐specific and context‐specific content, ensuring Rural Generalist Program alignment with clinical and project requirements, strengthening support mechanisms within employing organisations and ensuring benefits can be sustained in the long term.

Conclusion

The Rural Generalist Program offers a promising strategy for building a fit‐for‐purpose rural and remote allied health workforce.
Admission discipline and timing of admission may influence outcomes for gastrointestinal bleeding patients
Authors: Chue Koy Min , Boey Jonathan Yongwei , Ng Bridget Si Min , Teh Jun Liang , Kim Guowei , Shabbir Asim , Chan Yiong Huak , Hartman Mikael , So Jimmy Bok Yan
Published: May 2021

Background

Bleeding of the gastrointestinal tract (BGIT) is a common gastrointestinal emergency. There is no consensus whether this condition should be admitted to medical or surgical discipline. Timing of presentation may also impact patient outcomes due to differences in healthcare resource availability. This study thus aims to investigate the impact of admitting discipline and timing of admission on patient outcomes in BGIT.

Methods

A 2‐year tertiary institution database was retrospectively reviewed. Outcome measures included 30‐day mortality, 30‐day readmissions and rebleeding requiring repeat endoscopic, angiographic or surgical interventions. Secondary outcome measures included time to endoscopy, percutaneous angiographic interventions and surgery. The effect of admission discipline (medical versus surgical) and time of admission (office‐hours versus after office‐hours) were analysed using a propensity‐score‐adjusted estimate.

Results

A total of 1384 patients were included for analysis, medical (n = 853), surgical (n = 530); during office‐hours (n = 785) and after office‐hours (n = 595). After propensity‐score‐adjusted analysis, no significant differences in mortality or readmissions were noted between medical or surgical admissions. Patients admitted under surgery were less likely to sustain rebleeding (P = 0.004) for lower BGIT and had an earlier time to endoscopy for upper BGIT (P = 0.04). Patients admitted after office‐hours had similar outcomes with those admitted during office hours apart from a delay in time to endoscopy (P = 0.02).

Conclusion

For BGIT patients, admission to a surgical discipline compared to a medical discipline appeared to have at least equivalent patient outcomes. Patients presenting with BGIT after office‐hours were more likely to experience a delay to endoscopy, although it did not affect patient mortality.
National images and trade attitudes: The case of South Korea
Authors: Hearn Eddie
Published: May 2021

While the number of regional trade agreements has expanded rapidly over the last 20 years, very few studies have analyzed individual preferences towards regional and bilateral trade. It is important, however, to consider individual attitudes toward bilateral trade distinctly. First, much of the recent public opposition to trade has not focused on globalization in general but relationships with specific countries. Second, democratically elected officials have political incentives to initiate trade disputes with unpopular partners. This article examines US public support for bilateral trade with South Korea. It is found that misconceptions about the Republic of Korea reduce US public support for bilateral trade. Priming respondents to view South Korea as wealthy, political allies, or culturally similar, however, increases support for trade. These results highlight the importance of perceptions and national branding on foreign relations.
New pathological illuminations on 3D transillumination transesophageal echocardiography imaging
Authors: Chao Chieh‐Ju , Mandale Deepa R. , Naqvi Tasneem Z.
Published: May 2021

The use of 3D technology has significantly improved the diagnostic accuracy of echocardiography by overcoming the limitation of 2D echocardiography. Transillumination 3D image post processing technique enhances shadows and contrast of cardiac structures with a movable virtual light source improving further the clarity and detail provided by conventional 3D imaging. In this report, we present 3 cases, one of mobile atherosclerotic aortic root plaque, another of small thrombi on ICD lead, and a third case of bicuspid aortic valve perforation due to infective endocarditis in whom TEE 3D transillumination further improved the diagnostic quality of conventional 3D imaging and lead to accurate clinical diagnosis.
Encephalitis as a neurological complication of COVID‐19: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of incidence, outcomes, and predictors
Authors: Siow Isabel , Lee Keng Siang , Zhang John J. Y. , Saffari Seyed Ehsan , Ng Adeline
Published: May 2021

Background and purpose

Although COVID‐19 predominantly affects the respiratory system, recent studies have reported the occurrence of neurological disorders such as stroke in relation to COVID‐19 infection. Encephalitis is an inflammatory condition of the brain that has been described as a severe neurological complication of COVID‐19. Despite a growing number of reported cases, encephalitis related to COVID‐19 infection has not been adequately characterised. To address this gap, this systematic review and meta‐analysis aims to describe the incidence, clinical course, and outcomes of patients who suffer from encephalitis as a complication of COVID‐19.

Methods

All studies published between 1 November 2019 and 24 October 2020 that reported on patients who developed encephalitis as a complication of COVID‐19 were included. Only cases with radiological and/or biochemical evidence of encephalitis were included.

Results

In this study, 610 studies were screened and 23 studies reporting findings from 129,008 patients, including 138 with encephalitis, were included. The average time from diagnosis of COVID‐19 to onset of encephalitis was 14.5 days (range = 10.8–18.2 days). The average incidence of encephalitis as a complication of COVID‐19 was 0.215% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.056%–0.441%). The average mortality rate of encephalitis in COVID‐19 patients was 13.4% (95% CI = 3.8%–25.9%). These patients also had deranged clinical parameters, including raised serum inflammatory markers and cerebrospinal fluid pleocytosis.

Conclusions

Although encephalitis is an uncommon complication of COVID‐19, when present, it results in significant morbidity and mortality. Severely ill COVID‐19 patients are at higher risk of suffering from encephalitis as a complication of the infection.
Early onset epilepsy and sudden unexpected death in epilepsy with cardiac arrhythmia in mice carrying the early infantile epileptic encephalopathy 47 gain‐of‐function FHF1(FGF12) missense mutation
Authors: Velíšková Jana , Marra Christopher , Liu Yue , Shekhar Akshay , Park David S. , Iatckova Vasilisa , Xie Ying , Fishman Glenn I. , Velíšek Libor , Goldfarb Mitchell
Published: May 2021

Objective

Fibroblast growth factor homologous factors (FHFs) are brain and cardiac sodium channel‐binding proteins that modulate channel density and inactivation gating. A recurrent de novo gain‐of‐function missense mutation in the FHF1(FGF12) gene (p.Arg52His) is associated with early infantile epileptic encephalopathy 47 (EIEE47; Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man database 617166). To determine whether the FHF1 missense mutation is sufficient to cause EIEE and to establish an animal model for EIEE47, we sought to engineer this mutation into mice.

Methods

The Arg52His mutation was introduced into fertilized eggs by CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats) editing to generate Fhf1R52H/F+ mice. Spontaneous epileptiform events in Fhf1R52H/+ mice were assessed by cortical electroencephalography (EEG) and video monitoring. Basal heart rhythm and seizure‐induced arrhythmia were recorded by electrocardiography. Modulation of cardiac sodium channel inactivation by FHF1BR52H protein was assayed by voltage‐clamp recordings of FHF‐deficient mouse cardiomyocytes infected with adenoviruses expressing wild‐type FHF1B or FHF1BR52H protein.

Results

All Fhf1R52H/+ mice experienced seizure or seizurelike episodes with lethal ending between 12 and 26 days of age. EEG recordings in 19–20‐day‐old mice confirmed sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) as severe tonic seizures immediately preceding loss of brain activity and death. Within 2–53 s after lethal seizure onset, heart rate abruptly declined from 572 ± 16 bpm to 108 ± 15 bpm, suggesting a parasympathetic surge accompanying seizures that may have contributed to SUDEP. Although ectopic overexpression of FHF1BR52H in cardiomyocytes induced a 15‐mV depolarizing shift in voltage of steady‐state sodium channel inactivation and slowed the rate of channel inactivation, heart rhythm was normal in Fhf1R52H/+ mice prior to seizure.

Significance

The Fhf1 missense mutation p.Arg52His induces epileptic encephalopathy with full penetrance in mice. Both Fhf1 (p.Arg52His) and Scn8a (p.Asn1768Asp) missense mutations enhance sodium channel Nav1.6 currents and induce SUDEP with bradycardia in mice, suggesting an FHF1/Nav1.6 functional axis underlying altered brain sodium channel gating in epileptic encephalopathy.
Therapeutic targeting of chromatin: status and opportunities
Authors: Siklos Marton , Kubicek Stefan
Published: May 2021

The molecular characterization of mechanisms underlying transcriptional control and epigenetic inheritance since the 1990s has paved the way for the development of targeted therapies that modulate these pathways. In the past two decades, cancer genome sequencing approaches have uncovered a plethora of mutations in chromatin modifying enzymes across tumor types, and systematic genetic screens have identified many of these proteins as specific vulnerabilities in certain cancers. Now is the time when many of these basic and translational efforts start to bear fruit and more and more chromatin‐targeting drugs are entering the clinic. At the same time, novel pharmacological approaches harbor the potential to modulate chromatin in unprecedented fashion, thus generating entirely novel opportunities. Here, we review the current status of chromatin targets in oncology and describe a vision for the epigenome‐modulating drugs of the future.
Identifying rotational symmetry axes in Kikuchi patterns by reciprocal vectors
Authors: Peng Fan , Zhang Yongsheng , Li Wei , Miao Hong , Zeng Yi
Published: May 2021

Symmetry analysis of the Kikuchi pattern is helpful to determine the crystal structure, and can significantly reduce the screening range of phase identification, thereby improving the accuracy and reliability of phase identification in electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD). Accurately identifying the symmetry axis from the Kikuchi pattern is the primary task of symmetry analysis. In this study, a new method was proposed to identify symmetry axes in Kikuchi patterns with the aid of reciprocal vectors. Taking the Kikuchi patterns of single‐crystal silicon as a typical example, a method for drawing reciprocal vectors after strict projection correction is introduced. The complex task of identifying the symmetry axis is transformed into an intuitive judgment of the geometric relationship between reciprocal vectors, thus greatly simplifying the process. This method successfully elucidated information on six Kikuchi poles in three single‐crystal silicon Kikuchi patterns, including 3‐fold axes, 4‐fold axes and asymmetric axes. The method can also distinguish between a 3‐fold axis and an analogous 3‐fold axis despite their only slight differences.
Conservative management of a severe case of onychocryptosis at a podiatric clinic—A case report
Authors: Jakubowska Michalina , Wcisło‐Dziadecka Dominika
Published: May 2021

Background

Onychocryptosis, also known as ingrown toenails or ungues incarnati, is a fairly frequent condition, with global prevalence of approximately 20%.

Objectives

This study is aimed at discussing possible conservative management of severe onychocryptosis, with a case report.

Methods

Conservative approach is effective in reducing or even entirely correcting underlying nail deformities. Eliminating nail fold inflammation is necessary prior to the bracing procedure. The non‐surgical approach combined with proper wound treatment of the involved nail folds is a promising alternative for a growing number of patients.

Results

Nail plate deformities may be largely corrected or fully eliminated. As demonstrated by our case report, even advanced stages of onychocryptosis may be effectively treated with nonsurgical modalities.

Conclusion

Proper podiatric care facilitates conservative approach to management of ingrown toenails, improving the patient's overall wellbeing and eliminating pain. The prerequisite for nonsurgical correction of the nail plate is treating inflammation first. Conservative correction is more aesthetically pleasing and less emotionally disturbing to the patients than partial or complete surgical avulsion. Lesser invasiveness is an advantage especially in the case of patients with chronic comorbidities.
Narrow‐band imaging features of oral lichenoid conditions: A multicentre retrospective study
Authors: Guida Agostino , Ionna Franco , Farah Camile S.
Published: May 2021

Objective

Narrow‐band imaging (NBI), which highlights epithelial intrapapillary capillary loops (IPCLs) classified into five patterns (0 toIV) with increasing correlation to malignancy, has demonstrated effectiveness for detection of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Lack of standardised procedures limits its use for routine inspection of oral lichenoid lesions including oral lichen planus (OLP), oral lichenoid lesion (OLL) and oral lichenoid reaction (OLR). The aim of this study was to analyse IPCL patterns of such lesions, assessing correlations with histopathological outcomes.

Materials and Methods

A multicentre, retrospective study was performed on 84 patients who underwent NBI and subsequent biopsy for suspected OLP/OLL/OLR. Patients were examined with Evis Exera III NBI system. Recorded NBI video endoscopies were evaluated to assess IPCL patterns and correlated with histopathological outcomes.

Results

No significant differences were detected among OLP/OLL/OLR on NBI inspection. All lichenoid lesions were significantly related to low‐grade (0‐II) IPCL patterns, clearly distinguishable from OSCC, showing pattern IV (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

NBI cannot discern among OLP/OLL/OLR lesions. Interpretation should be modulated when assessing lichenoid lesions. NBI has potential to discern malignant transformation occurring in lichenoid lesions undergoing long‐term follow‐up, as IPCL pattern IV may be used as a clinical marker of malignancy arising in chronic inflammatory lesions.
Aesthetics of the martial arts
Authors: Bicknell Jeanette
Published: May 2021

The past 15 years have seen an increase in interest in the martial arts by philosophers in the Anglo‐American tradition. Evidence includes two collections of essays and a book‐length study of the Asian martial arts from the perspective of western philosophy. In this article I summarize some of the most significant recent contributions to the philosophical aesthetics of the martial arts and suggest further areas for development. I begin in the first section with some general considerations regarding the martial arts as arts. In the sections that follow, I consider the martial arts in conjunction with three established areas of philosophical aesthetic inquiry: dance, sport, and everyday aesthetics. In the final section I offer some additional areas for development.
Characterization of the novel HLA‐DQA1*01:58 allele by sequencing‐based typing
Authors: Cargou Marine , Andreani Marco , Battarra Mariarosa , Wojciechowski Elodie , Visentin Jonathan
Published: May 2021

HLA‐DQA1*01:58 differs from HLA‐DQA1*01:02:01:06 by one nucleotide substitution in codon 46 in exon 2.
Factors associated with neutropenia post heart transplantation
Authors: Chow Jennifer K. L. , Ruthazer Robin , Boucher Helen W. , Vest Amanda R. , DeNofrio David M. , Snydman David R.
Published: May 2021

Background

Neutropenia is a serious complication following heart transplantation (OHT); however, risk factors for its development and its association with outcomes is not well described. We sought to study the prevalence of neutropenia, risk factors associated with its development, and its impact on infection, rejection, and survival.

Methods

A retrospective single‐center analysis of adult OHT recipients from July 2004 to December 2017 was performed. Demographic, laboratory, medication, infection, rejection, and survival data were collected for 1 year post‐OHT. Baseline laboratory measurements were collected within the 24 hours before OHT. Neutropenia was defined as absolute neutrophil count ≤1000 cells/mm3. Cox proportional hazards models explored associations with time to first neutropenia. Associations between neutropenia, analyzed as a time‐dependent covariate, with secondary outcomes of time to infection, rejection, or death were also examined.

Results

Of 278 OHT recipients, 84 (30%) developed neutropenia at a median of 142 days (range 81‐228) after transplant. Factors independently associated with increased risk of neutropenia included lower baseline WBC (HR 1.12; 95% CI 1.11‐1.24), pre‐OHT ventricular assist device (1.63; 1.00‐2.66), high‐risk CMV serostatus [donor positive, recipient negative] (1.86; 1.19‐2.88), and having a previous CMV infection (4.07; 3.92‐13.7).

Conclusions

Neutropenia is a fairly common occurrence after adult OHT. CMV infection was associated with subsequent neutropenia, however, no statistically significant differences in outcomes were found between neutropenic and non‐neutropenic patients in this small study. It remains to be determined in future studies if medication changes in response to neutropenia would impact patient outcomes.
Optimizing the Cost and Reliability of Shared Anchors in an Array of Floating Offshore Wind Turbines
Authors: Devin Michael C. , DuPont Bryony L. , Hallowell Spencer T. , Arwade Sanjay R.
Published: May 2021

Commercial floating offshore wind projects are expected to emerge in the U.S. by the end of this decade. Currently, however, high costs for the technology limit its commercial viability, and a lack of data regarding system reliability heightens project risk. This work presents an optimization algorithm to examine the tradeoffs between cost and reliability for a floating offshore wind array that uses shared anchoring. Combining a multivariable genetic algorithm with elements of Bayesian optimization, the optimization algorithm selectively increases anchor strengths to minimize the added costs of failure for a large floating wind farm in the Gulf of Maine under survival load conditions. The algorithm uses an evaluation function that computes the probability of mooring system failure, then calculates the expected maintenance costs of a failure via a Monte Carlo method. A cost sensitivity analysis is also performed to compare results for a range of maintenance cost profiles. The results indicate that virtually all of the farm's anchors are strengthened in the minimum cost solution. Anchor strength is increased between 5 and 35% depending on farm location, with anchor strength nearest the export cable being increased the most. The optimal solutions maintain a failure probability of 1.25%, demonstrating the tradeoff point between cost and reliability. System reliability was found to be particularly sensitive to changes in turbine costs and downtime, suggesting further research into floating offshore wind turbine failure modes in extreme loading conditions could be particularly impactful in reducing project uncertainty.
An Encounter With Lattice Boltzmann for Biomedical Applications: Interactive Simulation to Support Clinical and Design Decisions
Authors: Ferrari Simone , Ambrogio Simone , Narracott Andrew J. , Walker Adrian , Morris Paul D. , Fenner John W.
Published: May 2021

Medical device design for personalized medicine requires sophisticated tools for optimization of biomechanical and biofluidic devices. This paper investigates a new real-time tool for simulating structural and fluid scenarios—ansys Discovery Live—and we evaluate its capability in the fluid domain through benchmark flows that all involve steady-state flow at the inlet and zero pressure at the outlet. Three scenarios are reported: (i) Laminar flow in a straight pipe, (ii) vortex shedding from the Karman vortex, and (iii) nozzle flows as characterized by an FDA benchmark geometry. The solver uses a lattice Boltzmann method requiring a high-performance GPU (nVidiaGTX1080, 8GB RAM). Results in each case were compared with the literature and demonstrated credible solutions, all delivered in near real-time: (i) The straight pipe delivered parabolic flow after an appropriate entrance length (plug flow inlet conditions), (ii) the Karman vortex demonstrated appropriate vortex shedding as a function of Reynolds number, characterized by Strouhal number in both the free field and within a pipe, and (iii) the FDA benchmark geometry generated results consistent with the literature in terms of variation of velocity along the centerline and in the radial direction, although deviation from experimental validation was evident in the sudden expansion section of the geometry. This behavior is similar to previously reported results from Navier–Stokes solvers. A cardiovascular stenosis example is also considered, to provide a more direct biomedical context. The current software framework imposes constraints on inlet/outlet boundary conditions, and only supports limited control of solver discretization without providing full field vector flow data outputs. Nonetheless, numerous benefits result from the interactive interface and almost real-time solution, providing a tool that may help to accelerate the arrival of improved patient-specific medical devices.
Experimental Investigation on the Rubbing Process of Labyrinth Seals Considering the Material Combination
Authors: Hühn Lisa , Munz Oliver , Schwitzke Corina , Bauer Hans-Jörg
Published: May 2021

Labyrinth seals are used to prevent and control the mass flowrate between rotating components. Due to thermally and mechanically induced expansions during operation and transient flight maneuvers, a contact, the so-called rubbing process, between rotor and stator cannot be excluded. A large amount of rubbing process data concerning numerical and experimental investigations is available in public literature as well as at the Institute of Thermal Turbomachinery (ITS). The investigations were carried out for different operating conditions, material combinations, and component geometries. In combination with the experiments presented in this paper, the effects of the different variables on load due to rubbing are compared and discussed with the focus lying on the material combination. The influence of the material on the loads can be identified as detailed as never before. For example, the contact forces in the current experiments are higher due to a higher temperature resistance of Young’s modulus. The analysis will also be based on the rubbing of turbine blades. Design guidelines are derived for labyrinth seals with improved properties regarding tolerance of rub events. Based on the knowledge obtained, guidelines for designing reliable labyrinth seals for future engines are discussed.
Two-Dimensional Modeling of Nonlinear Dynamics of Forcespinning Jet Formation
Authors: Caruntu Dumitru I. , Padron Simon , Lozano Karen
Published: May 2021

Forcespinning is a novel method that makes use of centrifugal forces to produce nanofibers rapidly and at high yields. To improve and enhance the forcespinning production method, a 2D computational forcespinning inviscid fluid dynamics model is developed. Two models, namely, time-independent and time-dependent, are obtained in order to investigate the effects of various parameters on fiber forcespinning formation (trajectory, jet diameter, tangential velocity). The fluid dynamics equations are solved using the method of multiple scales along with the finite difference method and including slender-jet theory assumptions. It is important to produce jets with small diameters in the micro- and nanorange. Both the Weber (We) and Rossby (Rb) numbers were found to expand the jet trajectory as they increased. Increasing We and/or decreasing Rb was found to decrease the jet diameter. Also, by varying forcespinning parameters, it has been found that the jet radius can be decreased by increasing the jet exit angle in the direction of rotation, reducing the spinneret fluid level, increasing the angular velocity of the spinneret, reducing spinneret length, and/or reducing the orifice diameter. Knowing that jet trajectories are important for designing and positioning of the fiber collector, it has been found that the trajectories expand out with the increase in the jet exit angle in the direction of rotation, increase in the fluid level, increase in the angular velocity, and/or increase in the spinneret length. Production rates and jet radii for any predetermined radial collector distance were also determined.
Predictive Trajectory Tracking Algorithm of Underactuated Systems Based on the Calculus of Variations
Authors: Bodor Bálint , Zelei Ambrus , Bencsik László
Published: May 2021

The tracking control of underactuated systems is a challenging problem due to the structural differences compared to fully actuated systems. Contrarily to fully actuated systems, resolving the inverse kinematics problem of underactuated systems is not possible independently from the dynamic equations. Instead, the inverse dynamics must be addressed. It is common to extend the computed torque control (CTC) technique with servoconstraints. Besides the CTC's clearness, the stability of the system cannot be always guaranteed. A novel predictive controller (PC) is presented in this paper. Our PC applies the variational principle to design the motion of the system in order to achieve a stable motion with the lowest possible tracking error. To demonstrate the applicability and the performance of the PC method, a numerical study is presented for a planar manipulator resulting in about 20% RMS error compared to the CTC method from the literature.
Accelerometry and Self-Report Are Congruent for Children’s Moderate-to-Vigorous and Higher Intensity Physical Activity
Authors: Nigg Claudio R. , Burg Xanna , Lohse Barbara , Cunningham-Sabo Leslie
Published: May 2021

Purpose: This study used different analytic approaches to compare physical activity (PA) metrics from accelerometers (ACC) and a self-report questionnaire in upper elementary youth participating in the Fuel for Fun intervention.Methods: The PA questionnaire and ACC were assessed at baseline/preintervention (fall fourth grade), Follow-up 1/postintervention (spring fourth grade), and Follow-up 2 (fall fifth grade) of 564 fourth grade students from three elementary schools (50% females, 78% White, and 28% overweight or obese). Different analytic approaches identified similarities and differences between the two methods.Results: On average, self-report was higher than ACC for vigorous PA (range = 9–15 min/day), but lower than ACC for moderate PA (range = 24–30 min/day), light PA (range = 30–36 min/day), and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA; range = 9–21 min/day). Spearman’s correlations for vigorous PA (.30, .26, and .32); moderate PA (.12, .13, and .14); and MVPA (.25, .25, and .24) were significant at each time point (allps ≤ .01), whereas correlations for light PA were not significant (.06, .04, and .07; allps > .05). In repeated-measures analyses, ACC and questionnaire measures were significantly different from each other across the three time points; however, change difference of the two measures over time was only 5.5 MVPA min/day.Conclusions: The PA questionnaire and ACC validated each other and can be used to assess MVPA in upper elementary school children in a similar population to the current study. However, each assessment method captures unique information, especially for light-intensity PA. Multiple PA measurement methods are recommended to be used in research and application to provide a more comprehensive understanding of children’s activity.
Arctic ice loss not a big culprit in harsh winters
Authors: Voosen Paul
Published: May 2021

Models find few links between sea ice loss and cold weather from weakened jet stream.
Ancient poop reveals extinction in gut bacteria
Authors: Curry Andrew
Published: May 2021

First DNA from paleofeces shows diverse microbes in people 1000 years ago in U.S., Mexico.
De-stressing the T cells in need
Authors: Su Zhangli , Dutta Anindya
Published: May 2021

Protection of transfer RNAs from fragmentation avoids overstressing T cells
In Vitro
Production of Coenzyme A Using Thermophilic Enzymes
Authors: Suryatin Alim Gladwin , Iwatani Tomoka , Okano Kenji , Kitani Shigeru , Honda Kohsuke
Published: May 2021

The biosynthesis of coenzyme A (CoA) in bacteria and eukaryotes is regulated by feedback inhibition targeting type I and type II pantothenate kinase (PanK). Type III PanK is found only in bacteria and is generally insensitive to CoA.
A regionally specific drinking custom ‘Otōri’ and its association with alcohol consumption/alcohol use disorders: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Sugiyama Yoshifumi , Yoshimoto Hisashi , Iwabuchi Keisuke , Matsushima Masato
Published: May 2021

Objectives

The primary objective was to describe the characteristics of Otōri, a regionally specific drinking custom in the Miyakojima region of Okinawa, Japan, and its participants. The secondary objective was to clarify the distribution of alcohol consumption/alcohol use disorders as measured by the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) and its association with the frequency of engagement in Otōri per month.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

Tarama Island, a remote island in Okinawa, Japan.

Participants

Individuals who lived on Tarama Island, participated in a mass general health check or mass influenza vaccination programme, were aged ≥20 years and had decision-making capacity were eligible to participate.

Primary outcome measures

Alcohol consumption/alcohol use disorders as measured by the AUDIT, frequency of engagement in Otōri per month, settings in which people engage in Otōri and attitudes toward Otōri.

Results

Among 478 eligible participants, 401 answered the questionnaire. Approximately 15% reported attitudes toward Otōri of ‘like’ or ‘somewhat like’; around 80% of these participants were middle-aged to older adult men. Compared with the national average, a higher percentage of people (9.2% and 40.9% of women and men, respectively) had AUDIT scores indicating ‘hazardous drinking or more’, which was associated with ‘low or intermediate frequency’ and ‘high frequency’ of engagement in Otōri per month (ORs of 7.626 and 20.321, respectively).

Conclusions

Social obligation generated by some community members could pressure most of the population into participating in Otōri, possibly leading to a higher percentage of people engaging in hazardous/harmful alcohol consumption and alcohol dependence. However, healthcare professionals should carefully consider the beneficial and detrimental effects of the custom on biomedical and social conditions and avoid advocating to promote or abolish the custom by only highlighting one aspect.