bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fire performance of earthquake-damaged reinforced concrete columns: an experimental study
Authors: Chinthapalli Hemanth Kumar , Agarwal Anil
Published: September 2021

Purpose

Earthquake tremors not only increase the chances of fire ignition but also hinder the fire-fighting efforts due to the damage to the lifelines of a city. Most of the international codes have independent recommendations for structural safety against earthquake and fire. However, the possibility of a multi-hazard event, such as fire following an earthquake is seldom addressed.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper presents an experimental study of Reinforced Concrete (RC) columns in post-earthquake fire (PEF) conditions. An experimental approach is proposed that allows the testing of a column instead of a full structural frame. This approach allows us to control the loading and boundary conditions individually and facilitates the testing under a variety of these conditions. Also, it allows the structure to be tested until failure. The role of parameters, such as earthquake intensity, axial load ratio and the ductile detailing of the column on the earthquake damage and subsequently the fire performance of the structure, is studied in this research. Six RC column specimens are tested under a sequence of quasi-static earthquake loading, followed by combined fire and axial compression loading conditions.

Findings

The experiment results indicate that ductile detailed columns subjected to 4% or less lateral drift did not lose significant load-carrying capacity in fire conditions. A lateral drift of 6% caused significant damage to the columns and reduced the load-carrying capacity in fire conditions. The level of the axial load acting on the column at the time of earthquake loading was found to have a very significant effect on the extent of damage and reduction in column load capacity in fire conditions. The columns that were not detailed for a ductile behavior observed a more significant reduction in axial load carrying capacity in fire conditions.

Research limitations/implications

This study is limited to columns of 230 mm size due to the limitations of the test setup. The applicability of these findings to larger column sections needs to be verified by developing a numerical analysis methodology and simulating other post-earthquake-fire tests available in the literature.

Originality/value

The experimental procedure proposed in this paper offers an alternative to the testing of a complete structural frame system for PEF behavior. In addition to the ease of conducting the tests, the procedure also allows much better control over the heating, structural loading and boundary conditions.
Impact of a country’s logistical capabilities on supply chain risk
Authors: Sreedevi R. , Saranga Haritha , Gouda Sirish Kumar
Published: September 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the relationship between environmental factors, risk perception and decision-making in risk management. Specifically, using attribution theory, the authors study the influence of macro-level logistical capabilities of a host country on a firm’s actual and perceived supply chain risk, and examine if this country-level factor and the firm level perception of risk affect a firm’s decision-making in risk management.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a combination of primary data from 932 manufacturing firms from 22 countries and secondary data from the logistics performance index (LPI), and empirically tests the conceptual framework using partial least squares structural equation modeling.

Findings

Key results reveal that a country’s logistical capabilities, measured using LPI, have a significant impact on managers’ risk perception. Firms located in countries with high LPI perceive lower risk in their supply chain both in the upstream and downstream, and therefore do not invest much in external integration, compared to firms in low LPI countries, and hence are exposed to high risk.

Originality/value

This is one of the first empirical studies linking a country’s logistical capabilities with supply chain risk perceptions, objective supply chain risk and supply chain risk management efforts of a firm using the International Manufacturing Strategy Survey database.
Analysis of diversification benefits for cryptocurrency portfolios before and during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Aliu Florin , Bajra Ujkan , Preniqi Naim
Published: September 2021

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the diversification benefits attached to the crypto portfolios when combined with stocks, Forex instruments and commodity assets.

Design/methodology/approach

Markowitz diversification techniques have been used to analyze the risk-return tradeoffs of the individual portfolios. Daily prices on cryptocurrencies and the selected asset classes, cover the period before and during the pandemic COVID-19. The portfolio risk of the portfolios was calculated by identical techniques and analyzed with equal criteria.

Findings

The results with 270 trails indicate that stocks on average reduce the portfolio risk of crypto portfolios by 36% followed by fiat currency with 30.9% and commodities by 20.8%. Average daily returns stand in line with the standard portfolio theories where riskier portfolios offer higher returns and the other way around.

Originality/value

The authors contribute to the current literature by investigating the portfolio risk attached to the crypto portfolios when stocks, commodities and Forex instruments were added separately. To this end, results inform not only retail investors but also portfolio managers on the asset classes that generate better optimization for crypto portfolios.
The framework of talent analytics using big data
Authors: Saputra Arnold , Wang Gunawan , Zhang Justin Zuopeng , Behl Abhishek
Published: September 2021

Purpose

The era of work 4.0 demands organizations to expedite their digital transformation to sustain their competitive advantage in the market. This paper aims to help the human resource (HR) department digitize and automate their analytical processes based on a big-data-analytics framework.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology applied in this paper is based on a case study and experimental analysis. The research was conducted in a specific industry and focused on solving talent analysis problems.

Findings

This research conducts digital talent analysis using data mining tools with big data. The talent analysis based on the proposed framework for developing and transforming the HR department is readily implementable. The results obtained from this talent analysis using the big-data-analytics framework offer many opportunities in growing and advancing a company's talents that are not yet realized.

Practical implications

Big data allows HR to perform analysis and predictions, making more intelligent and accurate decisions. The application of big data analytics in an HR department has a significant impact on talent management.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the literature by proposing a formal big-data-analytics framework for HR and demonstrating its applicability with real-world case analysis. The findings help organizations develop a talent analytics function to solve future leaders' business challenges.
Long‐term changes in food habits of deer and habitat vegetation: 25‐year monitoring on a small island
Authors: Takatsuki Seiki
Published: September 2021

How vegetation change caused by ungulates affects other ungulate species has been well studied, yet how grazing the vegetation of the habitat affects a species own food habits is not known. Long‐term studies on the effects of sika deer (Cervus nippon) on vegetation have been performed, but not in the context of the species own food habits. I monitored grassland vegetation and deer food habits on an island in northern Japan for 25 years from 1975 to 2000. During the first decade, deer grazing caused the replacement ofMiscanthus sinensistussocks by aZoysia japonicasward. Deer diets in 1976 were composed of equal proportions ofM. sinensis,Pleioblastus chino, andZ. japonica, but after the 1980s,Z. japonicabecame their major food source. This is because of the high productivity ofZ. japonicaafforded by its morphology and physiology, as well as by the warm and humid summer climate of the Japanese archipelago. Although the vegetational changes were gradual, changes in the deer food habits were abrupt and the compositions were predominated byZ. japonicaafter the first decade. This study showed that an ungulate changed its own diet because of its effect on the vegetation by grazing, and that the changes in vegetation and deer diet were not synchronized over a 25‐year monitoring period.
Price inflation and exchange rate pass‐through in Tunisia
Authors: Gritli Mohamed Ilyes
Published: September 2021

This paper employs a structural vector autoregression model with non‐recursive contemporaneous restrictions to study the exchange rate pass‐through (ERPT) effects on domestic prices in Tunisia for the period January 2000 to February 2019. Thus, we have introduced four blocks that represent the foreign market, domestic goods market, money market and foreign exchange market. The results suggest that the ERPT to import price index (MPI) is large and rapid: 42% in the short run and 60% in the medium run. ERPT to producer price index (PPI) is relatively long and modest: 1% in the short run and 6% in the medium run. ERPT to consumer price index (CPI) is relatively rapid and modest: 3% in the short run and 7% in the medium run. The findings also show that PPI contributes the most to CPI fluctuations, while money supply and the world oil price contribute the most to interest rate variations. This suggests that the Central Bank of Tunisia is trying to indirectly control inflation. Therefore, the phasing out of administered prices should improve the effectiveness of monetary policy.
Gestational diabetes: false dichotomy and slippery slope
Authors: John S , Joseph KS
Published: September 2021

Linked article: This is a mini commentary on PWG Tennant et al., pp. 82–89 in this issue. To view this article visit https://doi.org/10.1111/1471-0528.16906
Resource implications following expansion of computed tomography coronary angiography: An Australian experience
Authors: Leong Chui Lyn , Teoh Tiong Wee , Bentley Louise , O’Rourke Edward , Allright Annalise , Werkmeister Melanie , Bickell Andrew , Htun Nay Min , Premaratne Manuja
Published: September 2021

Introduction

To determine the downstream utilisation of Computed Tomography Coronary Angiography (CTCA) in a single Australian tertiary centre.

Methods

A single‐centre retrospective study analysed 1460 patients undergoing CTCA between 1st January 2015 to 31st December 2018 at a tertiary hospital in Victoria, Australia, with a catchment area of 500,000 people. The coronary stenosis grading, plaque characteristics and coronary calcium score were identified. The downstream impact was assessed by measuring the number of stress echocardiograms, myocardial perfusion scans (MPS), invasive coronary angiograms and subsequent revascularisations.

Results

The number of CTCA’s performed steadily increased from 59 in 2015 to 395, 461 and 545 in 2016, 2017 and 2018 respectively. Seven hundred and fifty‐seven (52%) were females, and 703 (48%) males with 724 (50%) normal CTCA studies. The number of downstream stress echocardiogram performed each year was 2, 60, 46 and 16, respectively, accompanied by MPS numbers of 0, 21, 29, and 18. There were 9, 37, 57 and 64 invasive coronary angiograms with 1, 13, 19 and 22 corresponding revascularisations. Despite small increases in absolute numbers of patients presenting with chest pain (from 2678 in 2015 to 3660 in 2018), there was a significant increase in downstream further testing from 11 in 2015 to 98 in 2018.

Conclusion

The use of CTCA expansion has resulted in an increase in downstream testing. Therefore, resource planning with regards to CTCA expansion will have to account for increased rates of functional testing, invasive angiography and revascularisation.
Geochronology and Geochemistry of the Mamupu Cu‐Au Polymetallic Deposit, Eastern Tibet: Implications for Eocene Cu Metallogenesis in the Yulong Porphyry Copper Belt
Authors: ZHANG Xiaoxu , LIN Bin , TANG Juxing , HE Liang , LIU Zhibo , WANG Qin , SHAO Rui , DU Qiu , SILANG Wangdui , CIREN Ouzhu , GUSANG Quzhen , CIDAN Zhongga
Published: September 2021

The Mamupu skarn‐type Cu‐Au polymetallic deposit represents the first discovery of a medium deposit in the southern Yulong porphyry copper belt (YPCB), eastern Tibet. The Cu‐Au mineralization mainly occurs as chalcopyrite in breccia, within the plate‐like carbonate interlayer, being closely related to chloritization (e.g., chlorite, magnetite and epidote) and skarnization (e.g., diopside, tremolite and garnet). The ore‐related quartz syenite porphyry (QSP) and granodiorite porphyry (GP) were emplaced at 40.1 ± 0.2 Ma and 39.9 ± 0.3 Ma, respectively. The QSP of Mamupu is an alkaline‐rich intrusion, relatively enriched in LREE, LILE, depleted in HFSE, with no significant negative Eu and Ce anomalies, slightly high (87Sr/86Sr)i, low ∊Nd(t), uniform (206Pb/204Pb)i and ∊Hf(t) values, which indicates that the porphyry magma may be caused by both the mixing of metasomatized EM II enriched mantle and thickened juvenile lower crust. The QSP in the Mamupu deposit shares a similar genesis of petrology to other ore‐related porphyries within the YPCB. High oxygen fugacity and water content of the magmas are essential for the formation of porphyry and skarn Cu deposits. The QSP has similar high magmatic oxidation states and water content to the Yulong deposit, which indicates that the Mamupu has a high prospecting potential. Differences in the geological characteristics and scale of mineralization between the Mamupu and other YPCB deposits may be due to the different emplacement depths of ore‐related intrusions, as well as differences in the surrounding rocks.
A Chinese Perspective: Will China‐India Friction Paralyze the BRICS?
Authors: Niu Haibin , Hong Sheng
Published: September 2021

A puzzle of BRICS is why countries such as India and China work together within the group despite facing consistently difficult bilateral border tensions. This contribution argues that the multilateral logic of BRICS gives its members a chance to cooperate. As emerging powers, BRICS members need to adopt a collective approach to enhance their voices in the global governance system. Existing evidence shows that China and India have managed to separate their bilateral frictions from their collective actions within BRICS. This contribution examines the stakes of China and India’s BRICS engagement. Since China and India are the most promising emerging powers in global governance, their partnership will determine the BRICS’ depth and the length. Since China has dealt with the pandemic better than other BRICS members, it has become stronger which might increase the disparity of power within BRICS. Following the multilateral logic it may help India to cooperate with a stronger China in the post‐COVID‐19 era.
BRICS amidst India‐China Rivalry
Authors: Verma Raj , Papa Mihaela
Published: September 2021

In only a decade, the BRICS group has achieved policy coordination among five very disparate countries and has started presenting a serious challenge to the status quo in global governance. It is now collaborating on many policy issues and delegating authority to a range of BRICS organizations. Since the inception of BRICS, the protracted India–China rivalry has cast a dark shadow over the group. In the aftermath of the India–China standoff in Ladakh, especially the Galwan Valley clash evoking memories of more serious clashes such as those at Nathu La in 1967 and even the 1962 border war, a crucial axis of BRICS cooperation – the India–China relationship – has deteriorated. This Special Section examines whether the India–China rivalry will render BRICS dysfunctional. Will the BRICS group be broken? The contributors will analyse whether BRICS can be a pacifying force and outline the prospects for the development of BRICS in light of the India–China crisis.
Age of Multilateralism: Why is BRICS Important despite Possible Weaknesses? A Perspective from Russia
Authors: Panova Victoria V.
Published: September 2021

This article discusses whether BRICS, a leading global governance mechanism, can revive multilateralism, international law and interstate cooperation while providing stability at the global, regional and bilateral level. BRICS has created opportunities for addressing three core themes: politics and security; economics and finance; and humanitarian cooperation. It has evolved into an entity of like‐mined countries, which connects people through vertical and horizontal ties, delivers impactful projects and builds friendships. BRICS interconnectedness keeps the group intact from issues such as China‐India border conflict that could potentially disrupt BRICS unity. Moreover, the group was not designed to serve as a mediating body and clearly avoids being drawn into internal BRICS conflicts. To reach its full potential, BRICS must continue to expand the scale of cooperation in mutually beneficial issue areas and serve as a platform for cooperative projects for its citizens.
Redundancy analysis: A Swiss Army Knife for landscape genomics
Authors: Capblancq Thibaut , Forester Brenna R.
Published: September 2021

Landscape genomics identifies how spatial and environmental factors structure the amount and distribution of genetic variation among populations. Landscape genomic analyses have been applied across diverse taxonomic groups and ecological settings, and are increasingly used to analyse datasets composed of large numbers of genomic markers and multiple environmental predictors.

It is in this context that multivariate methods show their strengths. Redundancy analysis (RDA) is a constrained ordination that, in a landscape genomics framework, models linear relationships among environment predictors and genomic variation, effectively identifying covarying allele frequencies associated with the multivariate environment. RDA can be used at both individual and population levels, can include covariates to account for confounding factors and can be used to directly infer genotype–environment associations on the landscape. The modelling of both multivariate response and explanatory variables allows RDA to accommodate the genomic and environmental complexity found in nature, producing a powerful and efficient tool for landscape genomics.

In this review, we outline the diverse uses of RDA in landscape genomics, including variable selection, variance partitioning, genotype–environment associations, and the calculation of adaptive indices and genomic offset. To illustrate these applications, we use a published dataset for lodgepole pine that includes genomic, phenotypic and environmental data. We provide an introduction to the statistical basis of RDA, a tutorial on its use and interpretation in landscape genomics applications, discuss limitations and provide guidelines to avoid misuse.

This review and associated tutorial provide a comprehensive resource to the landscape genomics community to improve understanding of RDA as a modelling framework, and encourage the appropriate use of RDA across diverse landscape genomics applications. RDA is truly a Swiss Army Knife for landscape genomics: a multipurpose, adaptable and versatile approach to identifying, evaluating and forecasting relationships between genetic and environmental variation.
Ultrasound energy consumption and macular changes with manual and femtolaser‐assisted high‐fluidics cataract surgery: a prospective randomized comparison
Authors: Menapace Rupert , Schartmüller Daniel , Röggla Veronika , Reiter Gregor S. , Leydolt Christina , Schwarzenbacher Luca
Published: September 2021

Purpose

The purpose of the study was to compare ultrasound (US) consumption and central macular thickness (CMT) and volume changes with manual and femtosecond laser (FSL)‐assisted cataract nucleus workup.

Methods

Sixty patients scheduled for immediate sequential bilateral surgery underwent a prospective randomized intraindividual comparison of nucleus sector fragmentation performed manually in one eye and with low‐energy FSL assistance in the partner eye, followed by high‐fluidics phacoaspiration with a maximum US power of 30%. Ultrasound (US) energy consumption and macular thickness and volume were compared as measured by intraoperative effective phacoemulsification time (EPT) and high‐resolution spectral domain optical coherence tomography pre‐ and 1 week, 3 weeks and 6 weeks postoperatively. Results are presented as means ± SD or medians [min; max].

Results

Fifty‐two patients completed the full follow‐up. For the manual and FSL‐assisted groups, nuclear hardness was almost identical with a mean LOCS III grade of 2.44 ± 1.08 and 2.50 ± 1.00 (p = 0.371). Median EPT was 1.40 [0.2; 8.3] and 1.25 [0.2; 9.4] seconds. Median preoperative CMT was 276.50 [263.25; 289.75] µm and 276.00 [262.00; 290.00] µm. Median postoperative CMT was 278.00 [260.50; 288.00] versus 275.50 [264.00; 290.50] µm at 1 week, 279.50 [266.75; 292.25] versus 280.00 [266.50; 294.50] µm at 3 weeks and 280.50 [268.00, 293.75] versus 279.50 [264.75; 295.25] µm at 6 weeks. Differences in CMT and total macular volume between the groups were not statistically significant at any point in time.

Conclusion

Femtosecond laser (FSL) prefragmentation of the nucleus into six sectors did not reduce US energy consumption compared with manual splitting of the nucleus into four quadrants in this particular surgical setting. Sectorial FSL‐prechopping with the low‐energy FSL used had no additional impact on postoperative macular thickness and volume.
The clinical course of Crohn’s disease in a Danish population‐based inception cohort with more than 50 years of follow‐up, 1962‐2017
Authors: Burisch Johan , Lophaven Søren , Langholz Ebbe , Munkholm Pia
Published: September 2021

Background

Few population‐based studies have investigated the long‐term prognosis of Crohn's disease (CD).

Aim

To determine the long‐term natural disease course of CD with regard to surgery, cancer and mortality in a population‐based cohort followed for more than 50 years.

Methods

All patients diagnosed with CD from 1962 to 1987 in Copenhagen County, Denmark were included in a population‐based cohort. Information about surgeries, cancers and mortality was collected from patient files from 1962 to 1987 and from the Danish National Patient Registry, Cancer Registry, and from the Register of Causes of Death, 1987‐2017. Patients were matched with individuals from the general population.

Results

A total of 373 patients were followed for a median of 33 years (range: 0‐56 years). The cumulative probability of surgery 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 years after diagnosis was 62% (CI 95%: 57%‐67%), 71% (CI 95%: 66%‐75%), 72% (CI 95%: 67%‐76%), 74% (CI 95%: 69%‐79%) and 74% (CI 95%: 69%‐79%), respectively. A total of 142 patients (54%) were operated upon at least twice: 69 (26%) needing two surgeries and 73 (28%) needing three or more. Patients with CD were found to be at increased risk of intestinal (small bowel, rectum and anus) and extra‐intestinal (respiratory organs and skin) cancer. All‐cause mortality among CD patients was higher than among controls (RR: 1.22, CI 95%: 1.04‐1.43), whereas mortality due to gastrointestinal cancer was not.

Conclusion

After 50 years of follow‐up, 75% CD patients had undergone surgery, with most needing repeat surgery. The risk of intestinal and extra‐intestinal cancers, as well as mortality, was higher among CD patients than the background population.
Protecting the mountainous catchment area of the Kuang Si Waterfall, Lao PDR
Authors: Lau Yingshan
Published: September 2021

The Kuang Si Waterfall in Luang Prabang, Lao PDR, is an iconic tourist destination and supplies critical irrigation water to several downstream villages. The upstream catchment area, or the Kuang Si watershed area, comprises several villages belonging to three separate districts. The aim of this study is to understand how the watershed area of the Kuang Si Waterfall has been managed to ensure a steady, reliable flow of water resources for downstream agricultural and recreational use, in a context whereby slash‐and‐burn is commonly practised by upland farmers. The governance of the watershed has evolved from a top‐down approach in the 1980s to one that embodies integrated watershed management in the recent decades: community‐based forest and land allocation along with livelihood improvement projects. However, the focus on watershed health could be diluted through the latter approach. Drawing on ideas in the commoning literature, I show that there are ongoing forms of ‘lite commoning’ that enable upstream communities to see a stake in protecting the downstream water resource. Transitioning from ‘lite commoning’ to ‘strong commoning’ could help wean watershed programmes off development aid and make them more self‐sustainable, but I argue that it is foremost important to determine the hydrological watershed boundaries.
Low‐affinity immunoglobulin gamma Fc region receptor III‐B (FcγRIIIB, CD16B) deficiency in patients with blood and immune system disorders
Authors: Minguela Alfredo , Salido Eduardo J. , Soto‐Ramírez María F. , Olga Montes‐Ares , Leal Juan D. , García‐Garay María C. , Periago Adela , Berenguer Mercedes , Blanque Miguel , Campillo José A.
Published: September 2021

Low‐affinity immunoglobulin gamma Fc region receptor III‐B (FcγRIIIB) deficiency is present in ˜0·05% of the general population. Among our patients, FcγRIIIB deficiency was less frequent in those with immune‐system disorders (one of 1815 patients, 0·05%) than in those with blood disorders (nine of 2147 patients, 0·42%, P = 0·023): mainly primary immune thrombocytopenia (4·34%), therapy related myeloid neoplasms (1·16%) and myelodysplastic syndrome with excess blasts (1·28%). Four of the nine (44·4%) patients with blood disorders were diagnosed with or quickly evolved to acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), suggesting that FcγRIIIB deficiency could be an adverse prognostic factor for progression to AML that should be confirmed in large multicentre studies.
In vitro and in vivo accuracy of full‐arch digital implant impressions
Authors: Rutkunas Vygandas , Gedrimiene Agne , Akulauskas Mykolas , Fehmer Vincent , Sailer Irena , Jegelevicius Darius
Published: September 2021

Objectives

The main objective of the study was to compare the accuracy of full‐arch digital implant impressions for fixed dental prosthesis under in vitro and in vivo conditions.

Materials and Methods

Eight patients (five women and three men) with at least one edentulous arch and with 4–6 osseointegrated implants participated in this study. For each edentulous arch (n = 10), experimental screw‐retained titanium bar with attached four scan bodies was fabricated. The bar containing four scan bodies was screw‐retained intraorally on implants and scanned with Trios 3 intraoral scanner eight times (IOS group, in vivo). Then, the bar was attached to the master cast and scanned eight times again with the same intraoral scanner (MIOS group, in vitro). Finally, the bar with scan bodies was scanned 8 times with a laboratory scanner (reference). Precision and trueness were calculated for 3 distances and 3 angles between the scan bodies (1–2, 1–3, and 1–4) in IOS and MIOS groups.

Results

Precision and trueness for the largest distance (1–4) were found to be 44 ± 18 µm and 32 ± 19 µm for the IOS group and 31 ± 16 µm and 30 ± 14 µm for MIOS group, respectively. Precision and trueness for the angle between the most distant scan bodies (1–4) were 0.22 ± 0.14° and 0.18 ± 0.10° for the IOS group and 0.16 ± 0.11° and 0.07 ± 0.05° for MIOS group, respectively.

Conclusions

Intraoral conditions moderately affected the precision and trueness of Trios 3 (3Shape) intraoral scanner. Results of in vitro accuracy studies cannot be directly transferred to the clinical field.
Males with abdominal aortic aneurysm have reduced left ventricular systolic and diastolic function
Authors: Åström Malm Ida , De Basso Rachel , Engvall Jan , Blomstrand Peter
Published: September 2021

Background

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) increases the risk of chronic heart failure and other major cardiovascular events. Knowledge about left ventricular function in patients with AAA is lacking. This echocardiographic study aimed to investigate whether AAA is associated with left ventricular systolic and diastolic dysfunction.

Methods

Echocardiography was performed in 307 males (199 AAA and 108 controls) recruited from a regional ultrasound surveillance programme of known AAA, or from an ongoing ultrasound screening programme, during 2011–2016.

Results

Subjects with AAA had thicker septal and posterior walls and a reduced left ventricular function compared to controls. Left ventricular ejection fraction (AAA 55 ± 8%, controls 57 ± 7%) and global longitudinal strain (AAA 19 ± 3%, controls 20 ± 3%) were lower in the group with AAA (both p < 0·05). Moreover, decreased mitral annular plane systolic excursion (12 ± 2 mm versus 13 ± 2 mm) and higher E/e' (13 ± 5 versus 11 ± 4) were observed in subjects with AAA (both p < 0·05). The aortic sinus (38 ± 4 mm versus 35 ± 2 mm) and ascending aorta (36 ± 4 mm versus 34 ± 5 mm) were also wider in the AAA group compared to controls (both p < 0·01).

Conclusion

AAAs are associated with reduced left ventricular systolic and diastolic function in males. The larger diameter of the aortic sinus and ascending aorta among AAA patients suggests that AAA is a general aortic disease.
The lipid‐binding START domain regulates the dimerization of ATML1 via modulating the ZIP motif activity in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Nagata Kenji , Abe Mitsutomo
Published: September 2021

In Arabidopsis thaliana, the epidermis is the outermost cell layer composed of many specialized types of epidermal cells, such as pavement cells, trichomes, and guard cells. The homeodomain‐leucine zipper (HD‐ZIP) class Ⅳ transcription factors (TFs), which are unique to the plant kingdom, have been recognized as key regulators of epidermis development. Unlike animal HD proteins, which can bind to DNA as monomers, plant HD‐ZIP class Ⅳ TFs bind to DNA as dimers, although little is known about the regulation of their dimerization process. Here, we show that the homodimerization of ARABIDOPSIS THALIANA MERISTEM LAYER 1 (ATML1) — HD‐ZIP class Ⅳ TF that is required for protoderm development — is regulated by the lipid‐binding steroidogenic acute regulatory protein‐related lipid transfer (START) domain. We found that ATML1 forms homodimer through interaction via its ZIP motif in yeast and plant cells, although the interaction is abolished by generating a mutation into the lipid‐binding START domain to disrupt the lipid‐binding ability. These results suggest that lipidic ligands function as key regulators of protoderm development via modulating the dimerization of ATML1.
Prognostic value of haemoglobin drop in patients with acute coronary syndromes
Authors: Ndrepepa Gjin , Neumann Franz‐Josef , Menichelli Maurizio , Holdenrieder Stefan , Richardt Gert , Mayer Katharina , Cassese Salvatore , Xhepa Erion , Kufner Sebastian , Wiebe Jens , Joner Michael , Kessler Thorsten , Laugwitz Karl Ludwig , Schunkert Heribert , Kastrati Adnan
Published: September 2021

Background

The prognostic value of in‐hospital haemoglobin drop in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) undergoing invasive therapy remains insufficiently investigated.

Materials and Methods

This observational study included 3838 patients with ACS with admission and in‐hospital nadir haemoglobin values available. Haemoglobin drop was defined as a positive difference between admission and nadir haemoglobin values. The primary endpoint was one‐year all‐cause mortality.

Results

In‐hospital haemoglobin drop occurred in 3142 patients (82%). Patients were categorized into 4 groups: no haemoglobin drop (n = 696 patients), <3 g/dl haemoglobin drop (n = 2703 patients), 3 to <5 g/dl haemoglobin drop (n = 344 patients) and ≥5 g/dl haemoglobin drop (n = 95 patients). The primary endpoint occurred in 156 patients: 17 patients (2.5%) in the group with no haemoglobin drop, 81 patients (3.0%) in the group with <3g/dl haemoglobin drop, 37 patients (10.9%) in the group with 3 to <5 g/dl haemoglobin drop and 21 patients (22.2%) in the group with ≥5 g/dl haemoglobin (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] = 1.30, 95% confidence interval 1.17 to 1.45; p < .001 for one g/dl haemoglobin drop). The association of haemoglobin drop with one‐year mortality remained significant after exclusion of patients with in‐hospital overt bleeding (adjusted HR = 1.27 [1.11–1.46]; p < .001 for one g/dl haemoglobin drop). The lowest haemoglobin drop associated with mortality was 1.23 g/dl in all patients (HR = 1.03 [1.02–1.04]) and 1.13 g/dl in patients without overt bleeding (HR = 1.03 [1.01–1.04]).

Conclusions

In patients with ACS, in‐hospital haemoglobin drop was associated with higher risk of one‐year mortality even in the absence of overt bleeding.
How are you coping with the COVID‐19 pandemic? Survey of undergraduate dental students’ well‐being during an unexpected global event
Authors: Poma Malosi , Al Amri Firas , Tawse‐Smith Andrew , Ma Sunyoung
Published: September 2021

Background

COVID‐19 pandemic has led to major life changes including suspension of dental education programmes worldwide. The impact of this unexpected disruption in clinical teaching needs to be assessed.

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of the COVID‐19 restriction measures on the undergraduate dental students’ perception regarding their physical, mental and social well‐being as well as financial stress and anxiety for their future careers.

Materials and methods

An electronic questionnaire (Qualtrics, Provo, Utah, USA) with main themes (general well‐being, academic stressors, financial implications and dental career concerns) related to the COVID‐19 lockdown was sent to the undergraduate dental students at the University Of Otago, New Zealand. Participants were asked to rank their answers according to a 5‐level Likert scale (strongly disagreed‐strongly agreed). Other questions included demographic, fee‐paying status and living situation.

Results

There were 301 out of 376 students who responded to the survey. Generally, the students perceived that the COVID‐19 restrictions affected their behavioural and social well‐being (3.20 ± 0.75) and less impact on their physical (2.75 ± 0.82) and psychological (2.79 ± 0.62) well‐being. Students were significantly worried about their academic work and future careers (3.41 ± 1.20), but less concerned with their financial situation (2.74 ± 1.14).

Conclusions

The study provides valuable information on the impact of COVID‐19 pandemic on undergraduate dental students, and areas that the University should consider when providing support to the affected students. It is important that the University is proactive and prepared to deal with future pandemics effectively and efficiently.
Effect of training on time efficiency and marginal adaptation of computer‐aided design/computer‐aided manufacturing crowns among dental students
Authors: Tan Ying Yin , Ho Ting Khee , Goo Chui Ling
Published: September 2021

Introduction

The computer‐aided design/computer‐aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology has revolutionised dentistry at present. An operator's skills can affect the overall clinical duration and marginal accuracy of the prosthesis fabricated through this workflow. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of CAD/CAM hands‐on training compared with that of a self‐instructional video on the performance of dental students in digital impression and fabrication of a CAD/CAM crown.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, 30 undergraduate dental students were shown a CEREC demonstration video. Each operator then captured a digital impression using the intra‐oral scanner, and a crown was subsequently milled. All participants underwent a training course before repeating the process. Marginal discrepancy for each crown on its abutment tooth was measured before and after training using a stereomicroscope and was evaluated using Wilcoxon signed rank test. The duration taken for the process was recorded before and after training and evaluated using paired t‐test.

Results

The overall mean ±standard deviation marginal adaptation for the CEREC crowns was 78.15 ± 42.83 μm before training and 52.41 ± 17.12 μm after training. The Wilcoxon signed rank test found significant difference (p < .05) in terms of marginal adaptation of crowns fabricated before and after training. Paired t‐tests showed that the time efficiency after training significantly improved compared with that before training.

Conclusions

Training with guided feedback is crucial to improve the time efficiency of making a digital impression and marginal adaptation of fixed prosthesis using the CAD/CAM technology.
Ageing‐related changes in nap neuroscillatory activity are mediated and moderated by grey matter volume
Authors: Fitzroy Ahren B. , Kainec Kyle A. , Spencer Rebecca M. C.
Published: September 2021

Ageing‐related changes in grey matter result in changes in the intensity and topography of sleep neural activity. However, it is unclear whether these findings can be explained by ageing‐related differences in sleep pressure or circadian influence. The current study used high‐density electroencephalography to assess how grey matter volume differences between young and older adults mediate and moderate neuroscillatory activity differences during a midday nap following a motor sequencing task. Delta, theta, and sigma amplitude were reduced in older relative to young adults, especially over frontocentral scalp, leading to increases in relative delta frontality and relative sigma lateral centroposteriority. Delta reductions in older adults were mediated by grey matter loss in frontal medial cortex, primary motor cortex, thalamus, caudate, putamen, and pallidum, and were moderated by putamen grey matter volume. Theta reductions were mediated by grey matter loss in primary motor cortex, thalamus, and caudate, and were moderated by putamen and pallidum grey matter volume. Sigma changes were moderated by putamen and pallidum grey matter volume. Moderation results suggested that across frequencies, young adults with more grey matter had increased activity, whereas older adults with more grey matter had unchanged or decreased activity. These results provide a critical extension of previous findings from overnight sleep in a midday nap, indicating that they are not driven by sleep pressure or circadian confounds. Moreover, these results suggest brain regions associated with motor sequence learning contribute to sleep neural activity following a motor sequencing task.
Iris Murdoch, privacy, and the limits of moral testimony
Authors: Mason Cathy
Published: September 2021

Recent discussions of moral testimony have focused on the acceptability of forming beliefs on the basis of moral testimony, but there has been little acknowledgement of the limits to testimony's capacity to convey moral knowledge. In this paper I outline one such limit, drawing on Iris Murdoch's conception of private moral concepts. Such concepts, I suggest, plausibly play an important role in moral thought, and yet moral knowledge expressed in them cannot be testimonially acquired.
Evaluation of CSF1R‐related adult onset leukoencephalopathy with axonal spheroids and pigmented glia diagnostic criteria
Authors: Ayrignac Xavier , Carra‐Dallière Clarisse , Codjia Pekes , Mouzat Kevin , Castelnovo Giovanni , Ellie Emmanuel , Etcharry‐Bouyx Frédérique , Belliard Serge , Marelli Cecilia , Portet Florence , Le Ber Isabelle , Durand‐Dubief Francoise , Mathey Guillaume , Stankoff Bruno , Dorboz Imen , Drunat Severine , Boespflug‐Tanguy Odile , Menjot de Champfleur Nicolas , Lumbroso Serge , Mochel Fanny , Labauge Pierre
Published: September 2021

Background and purpose

Diagnostic criteria for adult onset leukoencephalopathy with axonal spheroids and pigmented glia (ALSP) due to colony‐stimulating factor 1 receptor (CSF1R) mutation have recently been proposed. Our objective was to assess their accuracy in an independent multicenter cohort.

Methods

We evaluated the sensitivity and specificity of the diagnostic criteria for ALSP (including the “probable” and “possible” definitions) in a national cohort of 22 patients with CSF1R mutation, and 59 patients with an alternative diagnosis of adult onset inherited leukoencephalopathy.

Results

Overall, the sensitivity of the diagnostic criteria for ALSP was 82%, including nine of 22 patients diagnosed as probable and nine of 22 diagnosed as possible. Twenty of the 59 CSF1R mutation‐negative leukoencephalopathies fulfilled the diagnostic criteria, leading to a specificity of 66%.

Conclusions

Diagnostic criteria for ALSP have an overall limited sensitivity along with a modest specificity. We suggest that in patients suspected of genetic leukoencephalopathy, a comprehensive magnetic resonance imaging pattern‐based approach is warranted, together with white matter gene panel or whole exome sequencing.
Long‐term seizure outcomes in patients with hypothalamic hamartoma treated by stereotactic radiofrequency thermocoagulation
Authors: Shirozu Hiroshi , Masuda Hiroshi , Kameyama Shigeki
Published: September 2021

Objective

To investigate long‐term seizure outcomes in patients with hypothalamic hamartoma (HH) following stereotactic radiofrequency thermocoagulation (SRT).

Methods

A total of 131 patients with HH who underwent SRT and were followed for at least three years after the last SRT were enrolled. Seizure outcomes were evaluated for gelastic seizures (GS) and other types of seizures (nGS) separately using the International League Against Epilepsy classification. Classes 1 and 2 were considered seizure‐free. Kaplan‐Meier survival analyses were used to estimate the proportion remaining seizure‐free after the first and last SRTs. Risk factors relating to outcomes were analyzed by log‐rank tests and a multivariate Cox proportional hazards model.

Results

Reoperation was performed in 34 patients (26.2%). Median total follow‐up was 61 (range, 36–202) months. Seizure freedom was obtained in 116 patients (88.6%) for GS and 85 of 108 patients (78.7%) for nGS at the last follow‐up. Mean GS‐free survival times improved from after the first (64.1 [95%CI 57.3–70.9] months) to after the last SRT (80.2 [95%CI 75.7–84.8] months). About 90% of GS recurrences after the first SRT were found within 6 months, though a few patients recurred more than 2 years after the first SRT. On the other hand, mean nGS‐free survival times after the first and last SRTs were not different between after the first SRT (84.4 [95%CI 73.0–90.7] months) and after the last SRT (83.1 [95%CI 74.1–92.0] months). There was no factor related to GS outcomes, but the significant factor for nGS‐free survival after the last SRT was multiple previous treatments (p=0.01, hazard ratio=15.65, 95%CI 1.79–137.16).

Significance

The last SRT was almost equivalent to achieving complete disconnection of HHs from the hypothalamus according to our strategy. Considering the epileptogenic network, GS outcomes depend on complete disconnection, whereas nGS outcomes are not affected by surgical factors but independency of secondary epileptogenesis.
Osteomyelitis of the scapulohumeral joint associated withRhodococcus equiand unresponsive to antibiotherapy in a foal
Authors: Labordère A. L. , Rodgerson D. H. , Kennedy L. A.
Published: September 2021

This case report describes the treatment and outcome of a 3.5‐month‐old lame foal, with a history of pneumonia associated withRhodococcus equi. Clinical examination identified osteomyelitis of the scapulohumeral joint. The unusual location of theRhodococcus equiosteomyelitis unresponsive to prevention and adequate treatment led to euthanasia of the patient. Post‐mortem findings confirmed bronchopneumonia due toRhodococcus equias well as the osteomyelitis of the scapulohumeral joint. This case highlights thatRhodococcus equishould be considered as a pathogen in extrapulmonary locations such as septic arthritis and osteomyelitis in foals with history of bronchopneumonia. Early and aggressive treatment should be considered.
Head and tail rope‐assisted recovery improves quality of recovery from general anaesthesia in horses undergoing emergency exploratory laparotomy
Authors: Louro Luís Filipe , Robson Katherine , Hughes Jodie , Loomes Kate , Senior Mark
Published: September 2021

Background

In equine anaesthesia, the recovery period is critical, accounting for most anaesthesia‐related fatalities reported. Horses may recover unassisted or may be assisted, for example, using a head and tail rope recovery method.

Objectives

To compare the impact of head and tail rope and unassisted recovery method on quality of recovery in horses undergoing colic surgery under general anaesthesia (GA).

Study design

Single centre retrospective cross‐sectional study, with prospective model performance analysis.

Methods

Clinical data were obtained from horses undergoing emergency exploratory laparotomy over a 6‐year period. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to identify the perioperative factors that affect quality of recovery. The final prediction model was assessed prospectively.

Results

Records from 502 general anaesthetics (490 horses) were included. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that head and tail rope recovery (OR 2.2, 95% CI 1.4‐3.3, P < .001) and sevoflurane administration (OR 1.6, 95% CI 1.2‐2.3, P = .02) were associated with better quality of recovery when compared with unassisted recovery and isoflurane administration respectively. Increasing GA duration (OR 1.0, 95% CI 0.99‐1.0, P = .03), increasing intraoperative dosages (in mg/kg) of thiopental (OR 0.85, 95% CI 0.75‐0.98, P = .02) or ketamine (OR 0.67, 95% CI 0.46‐0.99, P = .04) were linked to poor quality of recovery. No statistically significant difference was found between recovery groups in terms of mortality.

Main limitations

The clinical prediction model obtained is only applicable to the specific facilities, recovery methodology, referral population and anaesthetic protocols practiced at our institution.

Conclusions

Head and tail rope recovery is significantly associated with better quality of recovery, compared with unassisted recovery, in horses undergoing emergency exploratory laparotomy. Sevoflurane administration, in detriment of isoflurane, was associated with better quality of recovery. Other risk factors, such as increasing GA duration, the use of higher intra‐operative dosages of ketamine and/or thiopental, were associated with poor quality of recovery.