bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Candidatus Phytoplasma solani (Stolbur phytoplasma).
Authors: Quaglino Fabio 
Published: June 2021

Abstract

Phytoplasmas are cell-wall-less plant pathogenic bacteria of the class Mollicutes, which inhabit the phloem sieve tubes of plants and have been associated with several hundred diseases affecting economically important crops. Over the past few decades 'Candidatus Phytoplasma solani', belonging to the 16SrXII-A ribosomal subgroup, has been found to cause a range of plant diseases in different agro-ecosystems in many countries in Europe and the eastern Mediterranean area and a number of others all over the world. It is thought likely that it has always been present, at least in its European range, but has only been noticed in recent years. Diseases caused include bois noir in grapevines, stolbur in tomatoes, potatoes and other wild and cultivated plants, maize redness, lavender decline, and yellowing, reddening, decline, dwarfism, leaf malformation and degeneration diseases of other plants. 'Ca. P. solani' is usually transmitted from plant to plant by the polyphagous insect vector Hyalesthes obsoletus (Cixiidae) which, although it can complete its life cycle on only a small number of plant species, feeds on a much wider range. Recent studies have demonstrated the presence of additional insect vectors of this phytoplasma in Europe, such as Reptalus panzeri in Serbia, possibly R. quinquecostatus in Serbia and France, and Anaceratagallia ribauti in Austria. This scenario highlights the extreme complexity of the ecology of both 'Ca. Phytoplasma solani' and its insect vectors, underlying the difficulty in studying the epidemiology of diseases associated with this pathogen and in developing efficient control strategies. 'Ca. Phytoplasma solani' is also transmitted by parasitic plants and by grafting and vegetative propagation of infected host plants; it can be spread when host plants are transported by people. In the European Union it is listed as a harmful organism necessitating restrictions on the import of plants in the family Solanaceae.
Does perceived wellness influence technical–tactical match performance? A study in youth international rugby using partial least squares correlation analysis
Authors: Ramírez‐López Carlos , Till Kevin , Weaving Dan , Boyd Andy , Peeters Alexis , Beasley Grant , Bradley Sam , Giuliano Pierosario , Venables Charlie , Jones Ben 
Published: June 2021

ABSTRACTThe purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between matchday wellness status and a technical–tactical performance construct during rugby match‐play. One hundred and thirty‐three male rugby union players (73 forwards and 60 backs) from five under‐18 national squads who participated in the under‐18 Six Nations competition completed a subjective wellness questionnaire on each matchday morning. Players subjectively rated each item (sleep quality, fatigue, muscle soreness, stress and mood) on a five‐point Likert scale to calculate their daily wellness status (i.e. difference between matchday and baseline perceived wellness). Technical–tactical performance during match‐play was quantified by coding individual key performance indicators (e.g. number of carries, number of tackles). Partial least squares correlation analysis (PLSCA) was employed to compute the latent variables of perceived wellness status (X matrix) and technical–tactical performance (Y matrix) for each player observation (n = 271). The latent variables are a construct of each variable group, enabling higher dimensional data to be visualised more simply. Linear mixed‐effect models were later conducted to assess the relationships between the latent variables. The effect of perceived wellness status on technical–tactical performance was statistically significant in forwards (p = .042), not statistically significant in backs (p = .120) and accounted for 4.9% and 1.9% variance in the technical–tactical performance construct, respectively. The findings of this study suggest that perceived wellness status can influence technical–tactical match performance, but the practical significance of these findings should be interpreted with caution given the amount of variance in technical–tactical performance accounted by the models.
Confronting mitigation deterrence in low-carbon scenarios
Authors: Grant Neil , Hawkes Adam , Mittal Shivika , Gambhir Ajay 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Carbon dioxide removal (CDR) features heavily in low-carbon scenarios, where it often substitutes for emission reductions in both the near-term and long-term, enabling temperature targets to be met at lower cost. There are major concerns around the scale of CDR deployment in many low-carbon scenarios, and the risk that anticipated future CDR could dilute incentives to reduce emissions now, a phenomenon known as mitigation deterrence. Here we conduct an in-depth analysis into the relationship between emissions reduction and emissions removal in a global integrated assessment model. We explore the impact of CDR on low-carbon scenarios, illustrating how the pathway for the 2020s is highly sensitive to assumptions around CDR availability. Using stochastic optimisation, we demonstrate that accounting for uncertainty in future CDR deployment provides a strong rationale to increase rates of mitigation in the 2020s. A 20% chance of CDR deployment failure requires additional emissions reduction in 2030 of 3–17 GtCO2. Finally, we introduce new scenarios which demonstrate the risks of mitigation deterrence and the benefits of formally separating CDR and emissions reduction as climate strategies. Continual mitigation deterrence across the time-horizon leads to the temperature goals being breached by 0.2–0.3 °C. If CDR is treated as additional to emissions reduction, up to an additional 700–800 GtCO2 can be removed from the atmosphere by 2100, reducing end-of-century warming by up to 0.5 °C. This could put sub-1.5 °C targets within reach but requires that CDR is additional to, rather than replaces, emission reductions.
Spatial-temporal patterns of ambient fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and black carbon (BC) pollution in Accra
Authors: Alli Abosede S , Clark Sierra N , Hughes Allison , Nimo James , Bedford-Moses Josephine , Baah Solomon , Wang Jiayuan , Vallarino Jose , Agyemang Ernest , Barratt Benjamin , Beddows Andrew , Kelly Frank , Owusu George , Baumgartner Jill , Brauer Michael , Ezzati Majid , Agyei-Mensah Samuel , Arku Raphael E 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is rapidly urbanizing, and ambient air pollution has emerged as a major environmental health concern in growing cities. Yet, effective air quality management is hindered by limited data. We deployed robust, low-cost and low-power devices in a large-scale measurement campaign and characterized within-city variations in fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and black carbon (BC) pollution in Accra, Ghana. Between April 2019 and June 2020, we measured weekly gravimetric (filter-based) and minute-by-minute PM2.5 concentrations at 146 unique locations, comprising of 10 fixed (∼1 year) and 136 rotating (7 day) sites covering a range of land-use and source influences. Filters were weighed for mass, and light absorbance (10−5m−1) of the filters was used as proxy for BC concentration. Year-long data at four fixed sites that were monitored in a previous study (2006–2007) were compared to assess changes in PM2.5 concentrations. The mean annual PM2.5 across the fixed sites ranged from 26 μg m−3 at a peri-urban site to 43 μg m−3 at a commercial, business, and industrial (CBI) site. CBI areas had the highest PM2.5 levels (mean: 37 μg m−3), followed by high-density residential neighborhoods (mean: 36 μg m−3), while peri-urban areas recorded the lowest (mean: 26 μg m−3). Both PM2.5 and BC levels were highest during the dry dusty Harmattan period (mean PM2.5: 89 μg m−3) compared to non-Harmattan season (mean PM2.5: 23 μg m−3). PM2.5 at all sites peaked at dawn and dusk, coinciding with morning and evening heavy traffic. We found about a 50% reduction (71 vs 37 μg m−3) in mean annual PM2.5 concentrations when compared to measurements in 2006–2007 in Accra. Ambient PM2.5 concentrations in Accra may have plateaued at levels lower than those seen in large Asian megacities. However, levels are still 2- to 4-fold higher than the WHO guideline. Effective and equitable policies are needed to reduce pollution levels and protect public health.
Limited ant co-occurrence and defensive mutualism inAcaciaplants in a West African savanna
Authors: Djogbenou Anyse , Azihou Akomian F , Dassou Anicet G , Assogbadjo Achille E , Kassa Barthelemy , Gaoue Orou G 
Published: June 2021

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

Abstract

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

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

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

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

Abstract

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

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

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

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

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

Abstract

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

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

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

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

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

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

Abstract
The jurisprudence of the Canadian Supreme Court has been at the forefront of a judicial conversion to a more progressive view of the employment relationship, which is attuned to key realities such as inequality of bargaining power. The Court’s influence can be seen in the decisions of courts in other jurisdictions such as the UK. The change in outlook has had a discernable impact on doctrinal development. In recent years, the Canadian Supreme Court has elevated the importance of good faith in contract law as a whole. In 2020, in a series of key decisions, the Court explored some of the implications for the law of employment contract. This article seeks to explore whether those developments will be of relevance to the development of the employment contract here.