bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ROS/RNS balancing, aerobic fermentation regulation and cell cycle control – a complex early trait (‘CoV-MAC-TED’) for combating SARS-CoV-2-induced cell reprogramming
Authors: Costa José Hélio , Mohanapriya Gunasekaran , Revuru Bharadwaj , Noceda Carlos , Lima Thiers Karine Leitão , Aziz Shahid , Srivastava Shivani , Oliveira Manuela , Gupta Kapuganti Jagadis , Kumari Aprajita , Sircar Debabrata , Kumar Sarma Rajeev , Achra Arvind , Sathishkumar Ramalingam , Adholeya Alok , Arnholdt-Schmitt Birgit
Published: June 2021

In a perspective entitled ‘From plant survival under severe stress to anti-viral human defense’ we raised and justified the hypothesis that transcript level profiles of justified target genes established fromin vitrosomatic embryogenesis (SE) induction in plants as a reference compared to virus-induced profiles can identify differential virus signatures that link to harmful reprogramming. A standard profile of selected genes named ‘ReprogVirus’ was proposed forin vitro-scanning of early virus-induced reprogramming in critical primary infected cells/tissues as target trait. For data collection, the ‘ReprogVirus platform’ was initiated. This initiative aims to identify in a common effort across scientific boundaries critical virus footprints from diverse virus origins and variants as a basis for anti-viral strategy design. This approach is open for validation and extension.

In the present study, we initiated validation by experimental transcriptome data available in public domain combined with advancing plant wet lab research. We compared plant-adapted transcriptomes according to ‘RegroVirus’ complemented by alternative oxidase (AOX) genes duringde novoprogramming under SE-inducing conditions within vitrocorona virus-induced transcriptome profiles. This approach enabled identifying amajorcomplextrait forearlyde novoprogramming during SARS-CoV-2 infection, called ‘CoV-MAC-TED’. It consists of unbalanced ROS/RNS levels, which are connected to increased aerobic fermentation that links to alpha-tubulin-based cell restructuration and progression of cell cycle.

We conclude that anti-viral/anti-SARS-CoV-2 strategies need to rigorously target ‘CoV-MAC-TED’ in primary infected nose and mouth cells through prophylactic and very early therapeutic strategies. We also discuss potential strategies in the view of the beneficial role of AOX for resilient behavior in plants.

Furthermore, following the general observation that ROS/RNS equilibration/redox homeostasis is of utmost importance at the very beginning of viral infection, we highlight that ‘de-stressing’ disease and social handling should be seen as essential part of anti-viral/anti-SARS-CoV-2 strategies.
Balanced-detection visible-light optical coherence tomography
Authors: Rubinoff Ian , Miller David A. , Kuranov Roman , Wang Yuanbo , Fang Raymond , Volpe Nicholas J. , Zhang Hao F.
Published: June 2021

Increases in speed and sensitivity enabled rapid clinical adoption of optical coherence tomography (OCT) in ophthalmology. Recently visible-light OCT (vis-OCT) achieved ultrahigh axial resolution, improved tissue contrast, and new functional imaging capabilities, demonstrating the potential to improve clincal care further. However, limited speed and sensitivity caused by the high relative intensity noise (RIN) in supercontinuum lasers impeded the clinical adoption of vis-OCT. To overcome these limitations, we developed balanced-detection vis-OCT (BD-vis-OCT), which uses two calibrated spectrometers to cancel noises common to sample and reference arms, including RIN. We analyzed the RIN to achieve a robust pixel-to-pixel calibration between the two spectrometers and showed that BD-vis-OCT enhanced system sensitivity by up to 22.2 dB. We imaged healthy volunteers at an A-line rate of 125 kHz and a field-of-view as large as 10 mm × 4 mm. We found that BD-vis-OCT revealed retinal anatomical features previously obscured by the noise floor.
Cell-to-cell variability in inducible Caspase9-mediated cell death
Authors: Yuan Yuan , Ren Huixia , Li Yanjun , Qin Shanshan , Yang Xiaojing , Tang Chao
Published: June 2021

iCasp9 suicide gene has been widely used as a promising killing strategy in various cell therapies. However, different cells show significant heterogeneity in response to apoptosis inducer, posing challenges in clinical applications of killing strategy. The cause of the heterogeneity remains elusive so far. Here, by simultaneously monitoring the dynamics of iCasp9 dimerization, Caspase3 activation and cell fate in single cells, we found that the heterogeneity was mainly due to cell-to-cell variability in initial iCasp9 expression and XIAP/Caspase3 ratio. Moreover, multiple-round drugging cannot increase the killing efficiency. Instead, it will place selective pressure on protein levels, especially on the level of initial iCasp9, leading to drug resistance. We further show this resistance can be largely eliminated by combinatorial drugging with XIAP inhibitor at the end, but not at the beginning, of the multiple-round treatments. Our results unveil the source of cell fate heterogeneity and drug resistance in iCasp9-mediated cell death, which may enlighten better therapeutic strategies for optimized killing.
The effect of recombination on the evolution of a population of Neisseria meningitidis
Authors: MacAlasdair Neil , Pesonen Maiju , Brynildsrud Ola , Eldholm Vegard , Kristiansen Paul A. , Corander Jukka , Caugant Dominique A. , Bentley Stephen D.
Published: June 2021

Neisseria meningitidis (the meningococcus) is a major human pathogen with a history of high invasive disease burden, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. Our current understanding of the evolution of meningococcal genomes is limited by the rarity of large-scale genomic population studies and lack of in-depth investigation of the genomic events associated with routine pathogen transmission. Here, we fill this knowledge gap by a detailed analysis of 2839 meningococcal genomes obtained through a carriage study of over 50,000 samples collected systematically in Burkina Faso, West Africa, before, during, and after the serogroup A vaccine rollout, 2009–2012. Our findings indicate that the meningococcal genome is highly dynamic, with highly recombinant loci and frequent gene sharing across deeply separated lineages in a structured population. Furthermore, our findings illustrate how population structure can correlate with genome flexibility, as some lineages in Burkina Faso are orders of magnitude more recombinant than others. We also examine the effect of selection on the population, in particular how it is correlated with recombination. We find that recombination principally acts to prevent the accumulation of deleterious mutations, although we do also find an example of recombination acting to speed the adaptation of a gene. In general, we show the importance of recombination in the evolution of a geographically expansive population with deep population structure in a short timescale. This has important consequences for our ability to both foresee the outcomes of vaccination programs and, using surveillance data, predict when lineages of the meningococcus are likely to become a public health concern.
Effect of temperature on process and kinetic parameters of the hydrogen evolution reaction of X80 under CP
Authors: Wu Shixiong , Gao Zhiming , Xia Da-Hai , Wu Meijun , Liu Yingjie , Hu Wenbin
Published: June 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to study the effect of temperature on the process and kinetic parameters of the hydrogen evolution reaction of X80 under cathodic protection (CP) in 3.5% NaCl solution.

Design/methodology/approach

Potentiodynamic polarization combined with the hydrogen permeation test is used to analyze the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) process and the rate-determining step for which is diagnosed through the electrochemical impedance spectrum method. Then, the influence of temperature on kinetic parameters of HER can be known from the results obtained by using the Iver-Pickering-Zamenzadeh model for data analysis.

Findings

The results show that the HER proceeds through Volmer–Tafel route with the Volmer reaction acting as the rate-controlling step; Increasing temperature gives a higher activity of the HER on X80, it also accelerates the hydrogen desorption and diffusion of hydrogen into the metal.

Originality/value

There exist few studies on the topic of how temperature affects the HER process. It is imperative to conduct a relevant study to give some instruction in cathodic protection system design and this paper fulfills this need.
Exploring the nonlinear effect of size on profitability: evidence from an insurance brokerage industry in an emerging market
Authors: Kotey Richard Angelous , Akomatey Richard , Kusi Baah Aye
Published: June 2021

Purpose

This study examines the possible nonlinear effect of size on stakeholder and shareholder profitability in the Ghanaian insurance brokerage industry.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs a panel dataset of 64 Ghanaian insurance brokerage firms spanning 2011–2015. Static [ordinary least squares (OLS), fixed effect and random effect and dynamic (two-step generalized method of moments (GMM))] estimation techniques are employed to analyze the data.

Findings

The study finds the existence of both economies and diseconomies of scale and scope theories in the Ghanaian insurance brokerage industry confirming the existence of nonlinear nexus between size and performance. This finding is consistent for both stakeholder and shareholder profit performance. Thus, the results show that size improves profitability of insurance brokerage firms, but beyond a certain threshold, the relationship turns negative as size negatively affects profitability.

Practical implications

The research findings have implications for both policy and research; the study recommends that Ghanaian brokerage managers should understand that not all growth is good and exercise a duty of care when applying growth strategies by monitoring size effect on performance so as not to go beyond the inflection point. Further research can be done to examine this effect in other contexts, timeframes and jurisdictions.

Originality/value

This research is unique in that it employs a panel dataset consisting of 96% of insurance brokerage firms in Ghana whilst employing both static and nonstatic regression models to examine the effect of size. The research analysis adopted is robust, and the findings are significant. Also, the lack of empirical studies on the operations and dealings of auxiliary institutions such as the insurance brokerage firms adds value to this research.
The relationship between individual entrepreneurial orientation (IEO) and entrepreneurial bricolage: exploring passion and perseverance
Authors: Mohammadi Saeed
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between individual entrepreneurial orientation (IEO) and bricolage behavior, considering the two emerging dimensions of IEO measurement: passion and perseverance.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 187 postgraduate students who have recently started a new business were selected as the research sample. This study aimed to explore the multidimensional perspective of the new IEO construct. Hierarchical multiple regression analysis was applied to examine the hypotheses.

Findings

The results show that along with the enactment of traditional dimensions of IEO, examining the newly introduced dimensions illustrates a distinguished explanation of IEO in resource-scarce environments and leads to a development in entrepreneurial bricolage.

Originality/value

This study examined the IEO construct with two emerging dimensions of IEO measurement: passion and perseverance. This IEO construct is primarily associated with individual behavior and declares bricolage behavior more effectively.
Energy efficiency financing and the role of green bond: policies for post-Covid period
Authors: Anh Tu Chuc , Rasoulinezhad Ehsan
Published: June 2021

Purpose

One of the major negative effects of the Coronavirus outbreak worldwide has been reduced investment in green energy projects and energy efficiency. The main purpose of this paper is to study the role of green bond proposed by the World Bank in 2008, as a reliable instrument to enhance the capital flow in energy efficiency financing and to develop green energy resources during and post the current challenging global time.

Design/methodology/approach

We model energy efficiency for 37 members of OECD through a panel data framework and quarterly data over 2007Q1–2020Q4.

Findings

The major results reveal the positive impacts of issued green bonds and regulatory quality index on energy efficiency, while any increase in inflation rate and urbanization decelerates the progress of raising energy efficiency.

Practical implications

As highlighted concluding remarks and policy implications, it can be expressed that the tool of green bond is a potential policy to drive-up energy efficiency financing and enhancing environmental quality during and post-COVID period. It is recommended to follow green bond policy with an efficient regulation framework and urbanization saving energy planning.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors' knowledge, although a few scholars have investigated the impacts of COVID-19 on green financing or examined the energy efficiency financing, the matter of modeling energy efficiency–green bond relationship has not been addressed by any academic study. The contributions of this paper to the existing literature are: (1) it is the first academic study to discover the relationship between energy efficiency and green bond in OECD countries, (2) since our empirical part provides estimation results based on quarterly data covering the year of 2019 and 2020, it may offer some new policy implications to enhance energy efficiency financing in and post-COVID period, (3) furthermore, we consider energy efficiency indicator (mix of industrial, residential, services and transport energy efficiency) as the dependent variable instead of using the simple energy intensity variable as a proxy for energy efficiency.
Mixed convection flow of a hybrid nanofluid past a vertical wedge with thermal radiation effect
Authors: Roșca Natalia C. , Roșca Alin V. , Pop Ioan
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to numerically study the problem of mixed convection flow of a hybrid nanofluid past a vertical wedge with thermal radiation effect.

Design/methodology/approach

The governing nonlinear partial differential equations are transformed into a system of ordinary differential equations by a similarity transformation, which is then solved numerically through the function bvp4c from MATLAB for different values of the governing parameters. The solutions contain a mixed convection parameter λ that has a considerable impact on the flow fields.

Findings

It is found that the solutions of the ordinary (similarity) differential equations have two branches, upper and lower branch solutions, in a certain range of the mixed convection and several other parameters. To establish which of these solutions are stable and which are not, a stability analysis has been performed. The effects of the governing parameters on the fluid flow and heat transfer characteristics are illustrated in tables and figures. It is found that dual (upper and lower branch) solutions exist for both the cases of assisting and opposing flow situations. A stability analysis has also been conducted to determine the physical meaning and stability of the dual solutions.

Practical implications

This theoretical study is significantly relevant to the applications of the heat exchangers placed in a low-velocity environment and electronic devices cooled by fans.

Originality/value

The case of mixed convection flow of a hybrid nanofluid past a vertical wedge with thermal radiation effects has not been studied before, and hence all generated numerical results are claimed to be original and novel.
Tourist’s rational and emotional engagement across events: a multi-event integration view
Authors: Folgado-Fernández José A. , Duarte Paulo , Hernández-Mogollón José Manuel
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate and compare the role of communication, structural and intangible elements on both tourists’ rational and emotional engagement across five different types of events (nature, gastronomy, religion, theatre and music).

Design/methodology/approach

Responses from 1,528 tourists were obtained through a face to face questionnaire in five heterogeneous events in the Spanish region of Extremadura, a well-known cultural tourism destination. Linear regressions were used to evaluate focal constructs’ contribution (emotional and rational engagement, formal and informal communication and structural and non-structural elements) on tourists’ engagement across events.

Findings

The results revealed that tourist’s rational and emotional engagement depends on the type of event. Non-structural elements seem to be important for rational and emotional engagement for gastronomic and cultural events. Besides the impact of structural elements on rational engagement, all other factors seem to have a mixed influence. Therefore, practitioners must select the factors to highlight according to the type of events, besides structural factors.

Practical implications

The current results allow tourism managers to understand the mechanisms for tourists’ engagement in a multi-event scenario to strategically select and use and communicate each type of appeal when planning and communicating events to specific target audiences.

Originality/value

Unlike most studies that focus on a single event or typology, this study combines a set of heterogeneous events to provide a complete picture of tourism engagement for the tourism sector.
Managerial challenges to promoting competency-based intellectual capital in emerging market economies – developing a framework for implications
Authors: Shet Sateesh V. , Del Giudice Manlio , Rammal Hussain G.
Published: June 2021

Purpose

This study aims to explore the challenges experienced by managers in adopting competency modeling (CM) and recommends an approach to overcome these challenges in promoting competency-based intellectual capital in organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

Using in-depth interviews with organizational practitioners in India, this study identifies the challenges of competency modeling in emerging market economies.

Findings

This study identified nine contextual and eight non-contextual challenges in implementing CM practices in organizations. The framework addresses the CM challenges using direction setting, negotiation and selling, and monitoring and control dimension of implementation with behavioral, operational and change alignment aspects of CM. The framework proposes a checklist for stakeholders to help them diagnose and analyze the gaps in effective CM implementation.

Research limitations/implications

This article contributes in the concept of competency-based intellectual capital and adoption of CM practices.

Practical implications

This framework will assist the change management practitioners, human resources leaders, organizational development consultants and practitioners as a toolkit to address the challenges in the people management intervention.

Originality/value

The framework suggests a checklist for stakeholders to help diagnose and analyze the gaps in effective CM adoption.
Leadership development facilitated by the “sandwich” and related glaucoma fellowship programs
Authors: Liu Victoria , Whitford Rita , Damji Karim F.
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate leadership training in the Sandwich Glaucoma Fellowship (SGF), a program in which fellows learn skills in a developed world institution and their home country to become leaders in glaucoma care.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is a retrospective, qualitative and quantitative evaluation. Participants of the SGF between 2007 and 2019 were provided a survey eliciting demographic information, leadership training exposure, development of leadership competencies and feedback for the fellowship program.

Findings

Seven of nine alumni responded. The fellowship strongly impacted leadership competencies including integrity (8.8, 95% CI 7.8–9.8), work ethic (8.64, 95% CI 7.7–9.6) and empathy (8.6, 95% CI 7.7–9.5). A total of 85% of alumni indicated positive changes in their professional status and described an increasing role in mentorship of colleagues or residents as a result of new skills. Lack of formal leadership training was noted by three respondents. Informal mentorship equipped fellows practicing in regions of Sub Saharan Africa with competencies to rise in their own leadership and mentoring roles related to enhancing glaucoma management. Suggested higher-order learning objectives and a formal curriculum can be included to optimize leadership training catered to the individual fellow experience.

Originality/value

Leadership is necessary in health care and specifically in the context of low- and middle-income countries to bring about sustainable developments. The SGF contains a unique “Sandwich” design, focusing on the acquisition of medical and leadership skills. This evaluation outlines successes and challenges of this, and similar fellowship programs. Other programs can use a similar model to promote the development of skills in partnership with the fellows’ home country to strengthen health-care leaders.
How do bank-affiliated venture capitalists do deals? Towards a model of multiple investment logics
Authors: Granz Christian
Published: June 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate German bank-affiliated venture capitalists’ investment practices and the emergence of their investment logics. Most studies focus on the investment behaviour of independent venture capitalists and little is known about dependent venture capitalists’ investment behaviour. The present study contributes to filling this gap in entrepreneurial finance literature.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses an exploratory qualitative research approach based on 27 semi-structured interviews with the top management of German bank-affiliated venture capitalists and industry experts to develop a conceptual model that explains the investment logics of bank-affiliated venture capitalists. A large amount of archival data has also been collected and used for the analysis.

Findings

The results indicate that bank-affiliated venture capitalists either follow an autonomous, contingent or hybrid investment logic. A bank-affiliated venture capitalist’s isomorphic focus – whether they feel isomorphic to the external venture capital environment or the internal parent bank’s environment – explains the emergence of multiple investment logics.

Practical implications

The paper encourages banks to get a better understanding of how the venture capital industry works and what they need to do to compete again independent venture capitalists. Banks and their affiliated venture capital units can improve their deal flows by recognising that they need to get accepted as an on-par investor in the venture capital environment.

Originality/value

The current study is the first of its kind investigating multiple investment logics by focussing on the link between different isomorphic habits and the specific context of bank-affiliated venture capitalists.
Igniting a conversation: Indigenous intercultural doctoral supervision
Authors: Cavanagh Vanessa , Hammersley Laura , Adams Michael
Published: June 2021

The importance of higher degree research supervision is well studied and understood. There is also an increasing body of literature examining cross‐cultural and intercultural supervision. Much less research, however, focuses on supervision experiences with Indigenous postgraduate students and their non‐Indigenous supervisors. High‐quality, culturally appropriate, and safe supervision is even more significant for Indigenous postgraduate students, who also have to deal with the ongoing inequities of colonialism in both higher education and broader society. The doctoral research at the centre of this article is undertaken by an Indigenous person who is supervised by two non‐Indigenous settler academics in geography. Drawing on Indigenous and non‐Indigenous scholarly research, we provide narrative examples of some of the complexities and possibilities experienced through the research process and supervisory relationship. The article does not present an argument for a best practice model in intercultural supervision, nor does it make recommendations or argue for standardised practices in geography. Instead, we seek to contribute to emerging discussions on Indigenous doctoral supervision in settler colonial contexts and, in doing so, highlight spaces of resistance as we challenge conventional supervisory relationships and knowledge making practices.
The role of the Listeria monocytogenes surfactome in biofilm formation
Authors: Janež Nika , Škrlj Blaž , Sterniša Meta , Klančnik Anja , Sabotič Jerica
Published: June 2021

Listeria monocytogenes is a highly pathogenic foodborne bacterium that is ubiquitous in the natural environment and capable of forming persistent biofilms in food processing environments. This species has a rich repertoire of surface structures that enable it to survive, adapt and persist in various environments and promote biofilm formation. We review current understanding and advances on how L. monocytogenes organizes its surface for biofilm formation on surfaces associated with food processing settings, because they may be an important target for development of novel antibiofilm compounds. A synthesis of the current knowledge on the role of Listeria surfactome, comprising peptidoglycan, teichoic acids and cell wall proteins, during biofilm formation on abiotic surfaces is provided. We consider indications gained from genome‐wide studies and discuss surfactome structures with established mechanistic aspects in biofilm formation. Additionally, we look at the analogies to the species L. innocua, which is closely related to L. monocytogenes and often used as its model (surrogate) organism.
Long‐term follow‐up assessment of opioid use outcomes among individuals with comorbid mental disorders and opioid use disorder treated with buprenorphine or methadone in a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Hser Yih‐Ing , Zhu Yuhui , Fei Zhe , Mooney Larissa J. , Evans Elizabeth A. , Kelleghan Annemarie , Matthews Abigail , Yoo Caroline , Saxon Andrew J.
Published: June 2021

Aims

To investigate whether reduction in opioid use differs when treated by either buprenorphine–naloxone (BUP) or methadone (MET) among adults with comorbid opioid use disorder (OUD) and mental disorders.

Design, Setting and Participants

In a randomized controlled trial, adults with OUD were randomized to 24 weeks of either BUP or MET treatment and were followed up in 3‐yearly assessments. The present secondary analyses were based on 597 participants who completed all assessments.

Measurements

The outcome measure was the number of days of using opioids per month during the follow‐up period. The Mini‐International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI) was used to classify participants into three groups: life‐time mood disorder (n = 302), life‐time mental disorder other than mood disorder (n = 114) and no mental disorder (n = 181). Medication treatment (BUP, MET, no treatment) during the follow‐up period was a time‐varying predictor.

Findings

Based on zero‐inflated Poisson (ZIP) mixed regression analysis, it was found that relative to no treatment, opioid use during the follow‐up was significantly reduced by BUP [odds ratio (OR) = 0.12, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.07–0.21 for any use; risk ratio (RR) = 0.77, 95% CI =0.66–0.89 for days of use] and by MET [OR = 0.33, 95% CI = 0.25–0.45 for any use; RR = 0.78, 95% CI = 0.72–0.84 for days of use]. Relative to MET, BUP was associated with a lower likelihood of any opioid use among participants with mood disorders (OR = 0.52, 95% CI = 0.36–0.74) and for participants without mental disorder (OR = 0.37, 95% CI = 0.21–0.66) and fewer number of days using opioids (RR = 0.37, 95% CI = 0.25–0.56) among participants with other mental disorders.

Conclusions

Among adults with comorbid opioid use disorder and mental disorders, treatment with buprenorphine–naloxone produced greater reductions in opioid use than treatment with methadone.
A new method to determine the diet of pygmy hippopotamus in Taï National Park, Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Hendier Alba , Chatelain Cyrille , Du Pasquier Pierre‐Emmanuel , Paris Monique , Ouattara Karim , Koné Inza , Croll Daniel , Zuberbühler Klaus
Published: June 2021

Diet determination of endangered species is an essential element in defining successful conservation strategies and optimising captive breeding programmes. In this study, we developed a new diet identification system, derived from standard faecal analysis, to determine the diet of an elusive and endangered herbivore, the pygmy hippopotamus (Choeropsis liberiensis). We collected faecal samples from 10 free‐ranging individuals covering a combined home range area of about 50 km2 in Taï National Park, Côte d’Ivoire. In subsequent laboratory analyses, we extracted a large number of leaf epidermis fragments from spatially separated faecal samples and compared them with a reference plant database. Using Multiple Correspondence Analysis (MCA) of epidermis fragments combined with direct visual inspection, we identified the most frequently consumed plant species, which revealed that pygmy hippopotami qualified as intermediate feeders. Their diet was based on at least seven species of monocotyledonae, dicotyledonae and fern groups, with a preference for a small number of other plant species. We evaluate the merit of our method and discuss our findings for developing effective conservation and captive breeding strategies in an endangered species with a wild population of less than 2500 adult individuals.
Two methods of evaluating mandibular trabecular pattern in intraoral radiographs and the association to fragility fractures during a 47‐year follow up
Authors: Elleby Charlotta , Skott Pia , Jonasson Grethe , Theobald Holger , Nyrén Sven , Salminen Helena
Published: June 2021

In this longitudinal cohort study, we explored the association of fragility fractures to sparse trabecular bone pattern in intraoral radiographs using two methods, a visual and a semi‐automated. Our aim was to study both sexes and to include younger age‐groups, during a follow‐up time of 47 years. The cohort consisted of 837 men and women aged 18–65 years, with intraoral radiographs from 1970–1971. The trabecular pattern was assessed in the mandibular premolar region with a visual and a semi‐automated method. Data on fragility fractures were acquired from the Swedish National Patient Register for 47 years of follow‐up time. Sparse trabecular pattern was found in 2.2% of the cohort using the visual method, and 18% were deemed at ‘risk of osteoporosis’ using the semi‐automated method. A total of 132 individuals suffered at least one fragility fracture during the follow‐up period. We found no significant association between fractures and sparse trabecular pattern using either method. This study shows that visual assessment, as a predictor of future fractures, may not be a suitable method for individuals of all ages and sexes. As for the semi‐automated method, there is still very limited evidence for its fracture predictive ability.
Fourth‐order phase field model with spectral decomposition for simulating fracture in hyperelastic material
Authors: Peng Fan , Huang Wei , Ma Yu'e , Zhang Zhi‐Qian , Fu Nanke
Published: June 2021

We present a fourth‐order phase field model for fracture behavior simulations of hyperelastic material undergoing finite deformation. Governing equations of the fourth‐order phase field model consist of the biharmonic operator of the phase field, which requires the second‐order derivatives of shape function. Therefore, a 5 × 5 Jacobian matrix of isoparametric transformation is constructed. Neo‐Hooken model and Hencky model are adopted as the material constitutive models. The spectral decomposition of stored strain energy is used to distinguish the contributions of tension and compression, and the corresponding stress tensor and constitutive tensors are derived, and subsequently, the numerical framework of modeling fracture with the fourth‐order phase field model is implemented in details. Several typical numerical examples are conducted to demonstrate the robustness and effectiveness of the fourth‐order phase field model in simulating the fracture phenomenon of rubber‐like materials.
Combined effects of recycled crumb rubber and silica fume on mechanical properties and mode I fracture toughness of self‐compacting concrete
Authors: Fakhri Mansour , Yousefian Farzad , Amoosoltani Ershad , Aliha M. R. M. , Berto Filippo
Published: June 2021

The effects of recycled crumb rubber up to 25% replacement of fine and coarse aggregates in two discreet gradations combined with 0% to 25% substitution of cement by silica fume were studied on the mechanical and fracture properties of self‐compacting concrete (SCC). For acquiring a diverse means of comparison, toughness index and energy absorbency of different mixtures were tested, and stress intensity factors of different mixtures were obtained. Additionally, statistical analyses were conducted to verify the validity of the results, and also, regression analyses were conducted to predict the values of flexural strength, toughness index, energy absorption, and fracture toughness of SCC mixtures. The results show that the addition of crumb rubber reduces the modulus of rupture, energy absorbency, and fracture toughness values, but the incorporation of silica fume can compensate for the losses. Conversely, there was a large rise in toughness index when adding crumb rubber.
Siberian plants shift their phenology in response to climate change
Authors: Rosbakh Sergey , Hartig Florian , Sandanov Denis V. , Bukharova Evgenya V. , Miller Tara K. , Primack Richard B.
Published: June 2021

Siberia has undergone dramatic climatic changes due to global warming in recent decades. Yet, the ecological responses to these climatic changes are still poorly understood due to a lack of data. Here, we use a unique data set from the Russian ‘Chronicles of Nature’ network to analyse the long‐term (1976–2018) phenological shifts in leaf out, flowering, fruiting and senescence of 67 common Siberian plant species. We find that Siberian boreal forest plants advanced their early season (leaf out and flowering) and mid‐season (fruiting) phenology by −2.2, −0.7 and −1.6 days/decade, and delayed the onset of senescence by 1.6 days/decade during this period. These mean values, however, are subject to substantial intraspecific variability, which is partly explained by the plants' growth forms. Trees and shrubs advanced leaf out and flowering (−3.1 and −3.3. days/decade) faster than herbs (−1 day/decade), presumably due to the more direct exposure of leaf and flower buds to ambient air for the woody vegetation. For senescence, we detected a reverse pattern: stronger delays in herbs (2.1 days/decade) than in woody plants (1.0–1.2 days/decade), presumably due to the stronger effects of autumn frosts on the leaves of herbs. Interestingly, the timing of fruiting in all four growth forms advanced at similar paces, from 1.4 days/decade in shrubs to 1.7 days/decade in trees and herbs. Our findings point to a strong, yet heterogeneous, response of Siberian plant phenology to recent global warming. Furthermore, the results highlight that species‐ and growth form‐specific differences among study species could be used to identify plants particularly at risk of decline due to their low adaptive capacity or a loss of synchronization with important interaction partners.
Headache attributed to idiopathic intracranial hypertension and persistent post‐idiopathic intracranial hypertension headache: A narrative review
Authors: Mollan Susan P. , Grech Olivia , Sinclair Alexandra J.
Published: June 2021

Objective

Headache is a near‐universal sequela of idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH). The aim of this paper is to report current knowledge of headache in IIH and to identify therapeutic options.

Background

Disability in IIH is predominantly driven by headache; thus, headache management is an urgent and unmet clinical need. At present, there is currently no scientific evidence for the directed use of abortive or preventative headache therapy.

Methods

A detailed search of the scientific literature and narrative review was performed.

Results

Headache in IIH is driven by raised intracranial pressure (ICP) and reduction of ICP has been reported in some studies to reduce headache. Despite resolution of papilledema and normalization of raised ICP, a majority suffer persistent post‐IIH headache. The lack of evidence‐based management approaches leaves many untreated. Where clinicians attempt to manage IIH headache, they use off‐label therapies to target the prevailing headache phenotype. A recent prospective open‐label study demonstrated the effective use of a calcitonin gene‐related peptide monoclonal antibody therapy in IIH for persistent post‐IIH headache.

Conclusions

There is overwhelming evidence of the headache burden in IIH. Studies are required to investigate the biological foundations of headache related to ICP and to develop treatments specifically directed to manage headache in IIH.
Remaking higher education for the post‐COVID‐19 era: Critical reflections on marketization, internationalization and graduate employment
Authors: Mok Ka Ho , Montgomery Catherine
Published: June 2021

This Special Issue was conceived and developed following a series of international conferences held in Asia, with a particular focus on critically reflecting upon higher education development in the region from broader social and political economy perspectives. Some of the papers in this Special Issue were selected from presentations in the East Asia Social Policy (EASP) Research Network Conference successfully held in Taiwan in 2018, while others were chosen from international events held at Lingnan University in Hong Kong presenting critical reviews and reflections on internationalization, marketization and graduate employment of higher education in Asia. This introductory article puts the discussions of the selected papers in this issue in context, with critical reflections on the key issues being examined in these papers. The Special Issue is published when the world is still confronting the unprecedented global health crisis resulted from the outbreak of the COVID‐19 pandemic. This article discusses the higher education development trends in Asia through the massification, diversification and internationalisation processes in transforming the higher education system and examines how these development trends are affected by the COVID‐19 crisis.
Cicatricial organising pneumonia associated with fibrosing interstitial pneumonia – a clinicopathological study
Authors: Zaizen Yoshiaki , Tabata Kazuhiro , Yamano Yasuhiko , Takei Reoto , Kataoka Kensuke , Shiraki Akira , Nishimura Koichi , Furuyama Kazuto , Bychkov Andrey , Hoshino Tomoaki , Johkoh Takeshi , Kondoh Yasuhiro , Fukuoka Junya
Published: June 2021

Aims

The recent recognition of cicatricial organising pneumonia (ciOP) indicates that the ciOP may resemble or simulate fibrotic interstitial pneumonia; however, there has been great uncertainty regarding the affected populations, pathogenesis, clinical relevance and characteristics. In this study, we compared the characteristics of fibrotic interstitial pneumonia with and without ciOP.

Methods and results

We enrolled 121 patients from the consultation archive whose pathological findings were fibrotic interstitial pneumonia and for whom follow‐up clinical data were available. We reviewed these cases histopathologically and classified them according to whether or not they showed ciOP. We compared the clinicopathological features between the two groups. CiOP, histopathologically characterised by deposition of dense collagenous fibres within the alveolar space without destruction of the lung structure, was found in 48 patients (39.7%). None of the cases with ciOP experienced acute exacerbation during 12 months’ follow‐up. The group with ciOP had more severe diffusion impairment but this, together with restrictive ventilatory impairment, improved significantly compared to the group without ciOP.

Conclusion

CiOP is a histopathological finding commonly found in fibrotic interstitial pneumonia. It does not relate to acute exacerbation or decrease in pulmonary function.
Intranasal versus sublingual route of dexmedetomidine sedation in paediatric dentistry: A randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Shaat Mai A. , Bakry Niveen S. , Elshafie Ahmed M. , Talaat Dalia M.
Published: June 2021

Background

Many children experience dental anxiety during dental treatment. Conscious sedation is used to alleviate anxiety and enhance a child's cooperation.

Aim

This study aimed to compare the efficacy of intranasal versus sublingual dexmedetomidine.

Design

Forty‐two healthy, uncooperative children participated in the study. They were divided randomly into two groups: In the first visit, Group I received intranasal dexmedetomidine and group II received sublingual dexmedetomidine, whereas at the second visit, the alternate route was implemented in a crossover design. The child's acceptance of drug administration method was assessed using a 4‐point rating scale. Time until optimum sedation was measured. Anxiety during local anesthesia administration was scored using Venham's rating scale. Postoperative response was recorded through Vernon et al’s questionnaire.

Results

The sublingual dexmedetomidine route was better accepted than the intranasal route (P=0.01), while the latter acted faster (P>0.001). No significant difference in anxiety scores was found between groups at baseline (P=0.84) or during local anesthetic administration (P=0.44). No negative effect was recorded by the parents who answered the Modified Vernon et al questionnaire 24 hour after the dental visit compared to before the dental visit (P=1.00).

Conclusions

Both routes prevented the increase in anxiety scores equally during local anesthesia and do not have negative effect on postoperative behavior of children. However, the sublingual route showed better acceptance with longer onset time of action than the intranasal route.
Evolutionary winners are ecological losers among oceanic island plants
Authors: Fernández‐Palacios José María , Otto Rüdiger , Borregaard Michael K. , Kreft Holger , Price Jonathan P. , Steinbauer Manuel J. , Weigelt Patrick , Whittaker Robert J.
Published: June 2021

Aim

Adaptive radiation, in which successful lineages proliferate by exploiting untapped niche space, provides a popular but potentially misleading characterization of evolution on oceanic islands. Here we analyse the respective roles of members of in situ diversified vs. non‐diversified lineages in shaping the main ecosystems of an archipelago to explore the relationship between evolutionary and ecological ‘success’.

Location

Canary Islands.

Taxon

Vascular plants.

Methods

We quantified the abundance/rarity of the native flora according to the geographical range (number of islands where present and geographical extent of the range), habitat breadth (climatic niche) and local abundance (cover) using species distribution data based on 500 × 500 m grid cells and 2000 vegetation inventories located all over the archipelago.

Results

Species of diversified lineages have significantly smaller geographic ranges, narrower climatic niches and lower local abundances than those of non‐diversified lineages. Species rarity increased with the degree of diversification. The diversified Canarian flora is mainly comprised by shrubs. At both archipelagic and island level, the four core ecosystems (Euphorbia scrub, thermophilous woodlands, laurel forest and pine forest) were dominated by non‐diversified lineages species, with diversified lineages species providing <25% cover. Species of diversified lineages, although constituting 54% of the archipelagic native flora, were only abundant in two rare ecosystems: high mountain scrub and rock communities.

Main conclusions

Radiated species, endemic products of in situ speciation, are mostly rare in all three rarity axes and typically do not play an important role in structuring plant communities on the Canaries. The vegetation of the major ecosystem types is dominated by plants representing non‐diversified lineages (species that derive from immigration and accumulation), while species of evolutionarily successful lineages are abundant only in marginal habitats and could, therefore, be considered ecological losers. Within this particular oceanic archipelago, and we posit within at least some others, evolutionary success in plants is accomplished predominantly at the margins.
Admissions of COVID‐positive patients to US nursing homes with personal protective equipment or staffing shortages
Authors: Gibson Diane M. , Greene Jessica
Published: June 2021

Background

US nursing homes are required to follow Centers for Disease Control guidance for COVID‐19 transmission‐based precautions (TBP) when admitting COVID‐positive patients.

Objective

To assess how frequently nursing homes had shortages of personal protective equipment (PPE) or staffing in weeks when they admitted COVID‐positive patients, which likely made it more difficult to follow TBP, and to compare facility characteristics by admissions practices.

Design and Setting

Facility‐level data from the Nursing Home COVID‐19 Public File for the period between June 7, 2020 and March 7, 2021 was combined with additional data. The percentages of nursing homes that admitted COVID‐positive patients and that had shortages when admitting were calculated for each week. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression models were used to examine the relationship between facility characteristics and the likelihood of admitting COVID‐positive patients.

Measurements

Facilities were categorized as having admitted COVID‐positive patients in a week if one or more admissions requiring TBP were reported for that week. Facilities that reported having less than a 1‐week supply of any type of PPE or being short any type of staff in a week were defined, respectively, as having a PPE shortage or staffing shortage in that week.

Results

Over the 40‐week study period, 39% of US nursing homes admitted COVID‐positive patients in at least 1 week in which they were experiencing PPE or staffing shortages. Facilities that admitted COVID‐positive patients with shortages generally had lower Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services overall five‐star ratings than other facilities. Only a small percentage of facilities that admitted COVID‐positive patients while facing shortages were located in counties with severe shortages of PPE or staffing. In logistic regression models, shortages were not associated with COVID‐positive admissions.

Conclusion

The widespread practice of admitting COVID‐positive patients while facing shortages may have put nursing home residents and staff at heightened risk of COVID‐19 infection.
Utility of a short, telephone‐administered version of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment
Authors: Jennings Lee A. , Araujo Katy L. B. , Meng Can , Peduzzi Peter , Charpentier Peter , Reuben David B.
Published: June 2021

Background

Because of the COVID‐19 pandemic, the ongoing D‐CARE pragmatic trial of two models of dementia care management needed to transition to all data collection by telephone.

Methods

For the first 1069 D‐CARE participants, we determined the feasibility of administering a short 3‐item version of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) to persons with dementia by telephone and examined the correlation with the full 12‐item version.

Results

The 3‐item version could be administered by telephone in approximately 6 min and was highly correlated with the full MoCA (r = 0.78, p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

This brief version of the MoCA was feasible to collect by telephone and could be used as an alternative to the full MoCA, particularly if the purpose of cognitive assessment is characterization of study participants.