bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Single-Stage Autologous Chondrocyte-Based Treatment for the Repair of Knee Cartilage Lesions: Two-Year Follow-up of a Prospective Single-Arm Multicenter Study
Authors: Słynarski Konrad , de Jong Willem Cornelis , Snow Martyn , Hendriks Jeanine Anna Alphonse , Wilson Clayton Ellis , Verdonk Peter
Published: April 2020

Background:

There is an unmet need for a single-stage cartilage repair treatment that is cost-effective and chondrocyte-based.

Purpose:

To evaluate the safety and preliminary efficacy of autologous freshly isolated primary chondrocytes and bone marrow mononucleated cells (MNCs) seeded into a PolyActive scaffold in patients with symptomatic cartilage lesions of the knee.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

A total of 40 patients with symptomatic knee cartilage lesions were treated with freshly isolated autologous chondrocytes combined with bone marrow MNCs delivered in a biodegradable load-bearing scaffold. The treatment requires only 1 surgical intervention and is potentially a cost-effective alternative to autologous chondrocyte implantation. The primary chondrocytes and bone marrow MNCs were isolated, washed, counted, mixed, and seeded into a load-bearing scaffold in the operating room. Patients were followed up at 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months. Primary endpoints were treatment-related adverse events up to 3 months, adverse implant effects between 3 and 24 months, and the implant success rate at 3 months as measured by lesion filling.

Results:

Successful lesion filling (≥67% on magnetic resonance imaging) was found in 40 patients at 3 months and in 32 of the 32 patients analyzed at 24 months. Significant improvement over baseline was found for visual analog scale for pain from 3 months onward; Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS)-Pain and KOOS-Activities of Daily Living from 6 months onward; for KOOS-Symptoms and Stiffness, KOOS-Quality of Life and International Knee Documentation Committee from 12 months onward; and for KOOS-Sport and Recreation from 18 months onward. Hyaline-like repair tissue was found in 22 of 31 patients available for biopsy. Arthralgia and joint effusion were the most common adverse events. Scaffold delamination and adhesions led to removal of the implant in 2 patients.

Conclusion:

The treatment of knee cartilage lesions with autologous primary chondrocytes and bone marrow MNCs, both isolated and seeded into a load-bearing PolyActive scaffold within a single surgical intervention, is safe and clinically effective. Good lesion fill and sustained clinically important and statistically significant improvement in all patient-reported outcome scores were found throughout the 24-month study. Hyaline-like cartilage was observed on biopsy specimen in at least 22 of the 40 patients.

Registration:

NCT01041885 (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier)
An effective model for fiber breakage prediction of injection-molded long fiber reinforced thermoplastics
Authors: Kang Junyang , Huang Ming , Zhang Mengfei , Zhang Na , Song Gang , Liu Yongzhi , Shi Xianzhang , Liu Chuntai
Published: April 2020

Fiber length is an important factor affecting the mechanical properties of long fiber reinforced thermoplastic (LFRT). When LFRT is processed by injection molding, the strong shear flow usually leads to severe fiber breakage. Therefore, it is a crucial issue to reduce the loss of fiber length as much as possible during composite molding. Current work focused on constructing an effective model for predicting fiber breaking caused by shear stress during melt filling. Based on the Oseen formula, the disturbance of liquid flow caused by a single external force was studied, and the force acceptance formula of fiber immersed in flow field was derived. A mechanical model for characterizing the degree of fibers buckling and breaking and the shear stress was constructed by the Euler buckling criterion. To verify the model, glass fiber reinforced polypropylene (GF/PP) composites with initial fiber length of 3 mm and 6 mm was subjected to shear at the specific shear rate by using a rotating rheometer. The length of GF after sheared was measured by fiber length distribution analyser. The breaking ratio of fibers was predicted using the new model, and the predicted results were in good agreement with experiment, although more comparisons with experiments are necessary.
Effects of helical fins with semi-circular in cross-section on the performance characteristics of novel finned-cyclone separators
Authors: Dasar Mahesh , Patil Ranjit S
Published: April 2020

Separation of particles (solid) from hot gases were carried out with the help of cyclone separators in most of the power generation industries (fluidized bed boilers) and process industries. Present research focuses on improving the performances of such devices by modifying the geometry. Conventional 2D2D Lapple type cyclone separator geometry was modified by attaching semi-circular cross-section helical fins along the height of barrel wall to make it as finned-cyclone separators. Semi-circular helical fins attached on the barrel wall varies (six-sets) with size (5 mm, 7.5 mm, and 10 mm) and pitch (30 mm and 50 mm). 3D computational fluid dynamics simulations were carried out using ANSYS 15.0 tool and validation were performed with experimental data available in the literature for conventional 2D2D Lapple type cyclone separator before proceeding towards simulations of semi-circular finned-cyclone separators. Improved performance was noticed from all selected six cyclone separators with semi-circular fins (cswf) when compared to conventional cyclone separators while studying the fluid mechanics characteristics, which directly influences on collection-efficiency of cyclone separators. Among selected cyclone separators, the cswf with size of fin 7.5 mm and fin-pitch 50 mm was noted to be performing improved collection efficiency for the particles size <3 µm. Around 5%–11% improved collection efficiency when compared to conventional cyclone separators were observed in the study by fixing the semi-circular fins along the height of barrel wall without disturbing the main role of cyclone separator, which is separating the very fine particles, which would otherwise causes pollution.
Frictional contact problem of an anisotropic laterally graded layer loaded by a sliding rigid stamp
Authors: Arslan Onur
Published: April 2020

This study proposes analytical and computational methods for the solution of the sliding frictional contact problem of an anisotropic laterally graded layer loaded by an arbitrarily shaped rigid stamp. The plane-strain orthotropy prevails in the layer which is bonded to a rigid foundation. Each of four orthotropic stiffness coefficients is exponentially varied through the lateral direction of the elastic layer. The Fourier transformations of the field variables are employed in the formulation. The gradient of a displacement component on the surface is then converted to a singular integral equation of the second kind. The singular integral equation is solved by means of the Gauss–Jacobi quadrature integration techniques, a collocation method, and a recursive integration method for the Cauchy integral considering the flat and triangular stamp profiles. The finite element method solutions of the same contact problems are performed using the augmented Lagrange method which is implemented in virtue of ANSYS design parametric language. An iterative algorithm is additionally utilized for the (incomplete) triangular stamp problem to conveniently reach the solutions for predetermined contact lengths. The convergence and comparative analyses are carried out to elucidate the trustworthiness of the analytical and computational methods proposed. Moreover, the parametric analyses infer that the contact-induced damage risks can be effectively alleviated upon tuning the degree of orthotropy and the lateral heterogeneity of the elastic layer.
Dynamic-joint-strength-based two-dimensional symmetric maximum weight-lifting simulation: Model development and validation
Authors: Rakshit Ritwik , Xiang Yujiang , Yang James
Published: April 2020

This article presents an optimization formulation and experimental validation of a dynamic-joint-strength-based two-dimensional symmetric maximum weight-lifting simulation. Dynamic joint strength (the net moment capacity as a function of joint angle and angular velocity), as presented in the literature, is adopted in the optimization formulation to predict the symmetric maximum lifting weight and corresponding motion. Nineteen participants were recruited to perform a maximum-weight-box-lifting task in the laboratory, and kinetic and kinematic data including motion and ground reaction forces were collected using a motion capture system and force plates, respectively. For each individual, the predicted spine, shoulder, elbow, hip, knee, and ankle joint angles, as well as vertical and horizontal ground reaction force and box weight, were compared with the experimental data. Both root-mean-square error and Pearson’s correlation coefficient ( r) were used for the validation. The results show that the proposed two-dimensional optimization-based motion prediction formulation is able to accurately predict all joint angles, box weights, and vertical ground reaction forces, but not horizontal ground reaction forces.
Effects of human stature and muscle strength on the standing strategies: A computational biomechanical study
Authors: Ashtiani Mohammed N , Azghani Mahmood-Reza , Parnianpour Mohamad , Khalaf Kinda
Published: April 2020

It has been hypothesized that the muscular efforts exerted during standing may be altered by changes in personal factors, such as the body stature and muscular strength. The goal of this work was to assess the contribution of leg muscles using a biomechanical model in different physical conditions and various initial postures. An optimized inverse dynamics model was employed to find the maximum muscular effort in 23,040 postures. The simulation results showed that mid-range knee flexion could help the healthy and strong individuals maintain balance, but those with weaker muscle strength required more knee flexion. Individuals of weak muscular constitution as well as those with tall stature are at the highest risk of imbalance/falling. The number of imbalanced postures due to deficits in the calf and hamstring muscles was reduced by 7.5 times by strengthening the whole body musculature. The calf and the hamstring muscles play a key role in balance regardless of stature.
Investigation of the effects of base fluid type of the nanofluid on heat pipe performance
Authors: Yilmaz Aydin Duygu , Gürü Metin , Sözen Adnan , Çiftçi Erdem
Published: April 2020

Most recently, an ascending tendency in nanoparticles containing working fluid utilization has been observed in such thermal systems as double pipe heat exchangers and thermosiphons in so far as its advantages upon the performance of such systems. In order to investigate how the type of the base fluid affects the nanofluid’s properties used for thermal applications, an experimental test rig was setup and two different nanofluid each of which involves different base fluid, but same nanoparticles and surface active agent were tested. During the nanofluid preparation process, bauxite nanoparticles as nanoparticle material and sodium dodecyl benzene sulfonate as surface active agents were used in volume fractions of 2% and 0.5%, respectively. As the base fluid type, ethylene glycol and deionized water were utilized. The tests were conducted under diverse working conditions and vacuum pressure. Distribution of temperature ahead the heat pipe wall, efficiency and heat pipe’s thermal resistance was experimentally investigated. It was observed from the experiments that each nanofluid improved the heat pipe performance significantly; however, deionized water/bauxite nanofluid gave the best results in terms of heat pipe’s thermal performance. For each nanofluid, the maximum increment in efficiency was observed under 200 W heating power and 10 g/s cooling water mass flow rate conditions, and improvement rates were 29.5% and 13.3% for ethylene glycol-based and deionized water-based nanofluids, respectively. At least 20% of decline in thermal resistance of the heat pipe was also recorded, when nanofluid was employed as working fluid.
Tensile, compression, and flexural characteristics of acrylonitrile–butadiene–styrene at low strain rates: Experimental and numerical investigation
Authors: Dundar Mehmet Akif , Dhaliwal Gurpinder Singh , Ayorinde Emmanuel , Al-Zubi Mohammad
Published: April 2020

Acrylonitrile–butadiene–styrene (ABS) is a very significant and widely used amorphous thermoplastic which, on account of its importance in industry, multiplied billions of dollars are spent yearly in the United States alone, not to talk of the rest of the world. It is primarily utilized in industry and domestic situations due to its high damage resistance properties. This fact makes it a required exercise for serious and thorough research in this area to go ahead. In this article, the tension, compression, and bending response behavior of ABS material under various strain rate levels tests were investigated. Its characterization under tensile, compression, and other mechanical testing is thus quite important, to elicit ways of enhancing properties that would make the material or structures made from it, better in service. In the current phase, tension, compression, shear, and flexural samples were tested, because it is of interest to know how the longitudinal and shear loading damages propagate through the specimen length and thickness, and how the microstructure is affected from point to point, both laterally and depth-wise. The issues of energy transfer and dissipation are significant in terms of the effectiveness of this material as a damage retarder. Mat_187 nonlinear material model in Ls-Dyna was utilized to numerically evaluate the behavior of ABS under tension, compression, and three-point bending. The experimental results compared favorably to the numerical results.
Book review: Harsh V. Pant, India’s Evolving National Security Agenda: Modi and Beyond
Authors: Kalyanaraman S.
Published: April 2020

Harsh V. Pant, India’s Evolving National Security Agenda: Modi and Beyond. Konark Publishers, 2019, pp. 186. ₹800 (Hardcover). ISBN 978-8193555439.
The Politics of Education Reform: Practices That Militate Against Change in a Developing Country
Authors: Joseph Stephen
Published: April 2020

Utilizing a conceptual approach, this study explores several political factors that coalesced to paralyze secondary education reform initiatives in Trinidad and Tobago. It discusses how changes in government impact reform priorities, and examines key strategies for overcoming political obstacles. One such strategy is the application of incremental rather than synoptic approaches to education reform. While most education reforms occur as a result of political action, the paper concludes that politicians are the ones largely responsible for presenting political challenges that often result in aborted reform policies, which negatively impact the general quality of education in a developing country.
Reliability and Validity of the Spanish-Language Version of the NIH Toolbox
Authors: Fox Rina S. , Manly Jennifer J. , Slotkin Jerry , Devin Peipert John , Gershon Richard C.
Published: April 2020

The psychometric properties of the English-language NIH Toolbox for Assessment of Neurological and Behavioral Function (NIH Toolbox) have been examined in numerous populations. This study evaluated the reliability and validity of the Spanish-language NIH Toolbox. Participants were children aged 3 to 7 years and adults aged 18 to 85 years who took part in the NIH Toolbox norming study in Spanish. Results supported the internal consistency reliability of included measures. Test–retest reliability was strong for most tests, though it was weaker for the test of olfaction among children and the test of locomotion among adults. Spearman’s correlations and general linear models showed Spanish tests were often associated with age, sex, and education. Convergent validity for the two language measures that underwent more intensive development, evaluated via Spearman’s correlations with legacy measures, was strong. Results support using the Spanish-language NIH Toolbox to measure neurological and behavioral functioning among Spanish-speaking individuals in the United States.
Evaluation of biometric parameters in phacomorphic glaucoma and mature cataracts
Authors: Keleş Ali , Şen Emine , Elgin Ufuk
Published: April 2020

Purpose:

The aims of this study were to compare the biometric parameters and axial lengths of eyes with phacomorphic glaucoma and mature cataract and to identify differences that might predispose to development of phacomorphic glaucoma.

Methods:

Three hundred forty-two patients were enrolled in this retrospective study. The eyes were divided into four groups—Group (G)1: phacomorphic glaucoma ( n = 29), G2: mature cataract ( n = 313), G3: contralateral phacomorphic glaucoma ( n = 29), and G4: contralateral mature cataract ( n = 313). Central corneal thickness and anterior chamber depth were assessed by optical low-coherence reflectometry (Lenstar LS 900®; Haag-Streit AG, Switzerland), while axial length was determined by A-scan ultrasound biometry.

Results:

The mean central corneal thickness of G1 was significantly higher than in other groups ( p < 0.001) and the mean anterior chamber depth of G1 was the lowest among the groups ( p < 0.001). Also, G2 had lower mean anterior chamber depth than G4 ( p < 0.001) and G3 had lower mean anterior chamber depth than G4 ( p = 0.007). Anterior chamber depth less than 3.27 mm had the higher odds ratio for distinguishing G3 versus G4 (odds ratio = 10.79, p < 0.001). Furthermore, patients aged ⩾68.9 years had the higher odds ratio for distinguishing G1 versus G2 (odds ratio = 2.82, p = 0.019). There was no significant difference in the presence of pseudoexfoliation material between G1 and G2 ( p = 0.057). There were no significant differences in axial length values among the four groups ( p = 0.097).

Conclusion:

Advanced age and shallow anterior chamber depth were found to be risk factors for developing phacomorphic glaucoma, but the presence of pseudoexfoliation material was not found to play a role as a risk factor in phacomorphic glaucoma development.
‘I always live in a quebrada [favela] and today I am here. So, you can be also here one day’: Exploring pre-service teachers’ perceptions of love for youth from socially vulnerable backgrounds
Authors: Luguetti Carla , McDonald Brent
Published: April 2020

In recent years, socially critical scholars have argued that love, as a moral basis for socio-critical work, should not be colorblind or power blind and that marginalized populations may understand caring within their sociocultural context, creating spaces for youth and teachers to challenge the racism, sexism, class exploitation and linguicism imposed on their communities. While there is advocacy of love in education and physical education, there is little research that aims to explore how pre-service teachers’ (PSTs’) conceptions change across time. The aim of this study was to explore PSTs’ changing perceptions of love as they worked in an activist sport project with youth from socially vulnerable backgrounds. Participatory action research framed this four-semester research project. Participants included the lead researcher, four PSTs and 110 youth. Data collected included the following: (a) the lead researcher’s field notes; (b) collaborative PSTs’ group meetings; (c) PSTs’ generated artifacts; and (d) PSTs’ focus groups and interviews. Data analysis involved induction and constant comparison. The PSTs understood that love was represented by the following: (a) creating democratic spaces for students to care for each other and their community; (b) trusting and understanding the students, and dreaming possible futures with them; (c) being the best teacher in order to facilitate students’ learning; and (d) making sure all students are included. We concluded that the PSTs’ embodied experiences of oppression and the reflexive experience lived in the activist approach created a space for the PSTs to see themselves in the youth, reconnect with their own identity and develop empathy and love for the diverse youth.
Simulation analysis and thermal comfort assessment of indoor environment of the heritage building in gate tower
Authors: Zhang Qunli , Zhai Hongbao , Zhang Xinchao , Liu Fang
Published: April 2020

The thermal comfort inside heritage buildings in China is mostly achieved with the use of split air conditioning and radiator heating system. Due to inefficiencies in the design of those systems, the regulation of air temperature is generally inadequate. To meet the thermal comfort requirements of the partial significant room, which is the meeting hall area, and to preserve the external walls and facade, this paper simulates and analyses typical working conditions of air control schemes in the gate tower and suggests the use of a floor-type fan coil air conditioning system. The results show that the proposed air distribution system can maintain a temperature of 295 K in the summer, which meets the thermal comfort requirements of the meeting hall. This method takes into account the requirement for thermal comfort, as well as the requirements of heritage preservation. Our proposal contributes to the growing literature, which studies methods of improving the thermal comfort of the indoor environment of heritage buildings.
In defence of natural beauty: Aesthetic obligation and the law on the designation of protected landscapes in England and Wales
Authors: Jenkins Victoria
Published: April 2020

Natural beauty has been the central legal criterion for the designation of ‘protected landscapes’ in England and Wales for over 70 years. This approach is subject to criticism that natural beauty is an outdated and subjective notion. Yet, there is surely merit in celebrating the beauty in nature that exists in these areas. Nevertheless, the legal approach necessitates some interrogation of the notion of natural beauty, its relationship to the landscape and the nature of the aesthetic exercise required to underline a regulatory system for the designation of protected landscapes. This article draws on literature in both aesthetic philosophy and landscape studies to provide such an analysis, arguing that an aesthetic observation of natural beauty can form the basis of a reasoned, robust and transparent process for the designation of protected landscapes and account for natural and cultural heritage concerns.
Processing of Keyhole Depth Measurement Data during Laser Beam Micro Welding
Authors: Hollatz Sören , Hummel Marc , Jaklen Lea , Lipnicki Wiktor , Olowinsky Alexander , Gillner Arnold
Published: April 2020

Analysing the quality of weld seams is still a challenging task. An optical inspection of the surface is giving limited information about the shape and depth of the weld seam. An application for laser beam welding with high demands regarding the weld depth consistency is the electrical contacting of battery cells. The batteries themselves have a limited terminal or case thickness that must not be penetrated during the welding process to avoid leakage or damage to the cell. That leads to a minimum weld depth to ensure the electrical functionality, and a maximum weld depth indicated by the case thickness. In such applications, a destructive analysis is not suitable which leads to the demand for a non-destructive measurement during the process. Using a coaxial, interferometric measurement setup, the keyhole depth during the deep penetration welding is measureable. For a keyhole with a depth of a couple of millimetres, such a system is commercially available. In micro scale, however, these systems are facing several challenges such as scanning systems, small spot diameters of a few tens of micrometres and narrow keyholes. This study contains an investigation of an interferometric measurement of the keyhole depth and the suitability for laser micro welding. Therefore, the data processing of the achieved measurements is investigated, and the results are compared with the depth measurement of metallographic analysed samples. Stainless steel is used to investigate the behaviour and the stability of developed data processing strategy and the resulting depth values.
Diffraction of sound waves by a lined cylindrical cavity
Authors: Tiryakioglu Burhan
Published: April 2020

In this paper, diffraction of sound waves through a lined cavity is analyzed rigorously. The inner–outer surfaces of the cavity and the base of the cavity are coated with three different absorbing linings. By using the Fourier transform technique in conjunction with the Mode-Matching method, the related boundary value problem is formulated as a Wiener–Hopf equation. In the solution, two infinite sets of unknown coefficients are involved that satisfy two infinite systems of linear algebraic equations. Numerical solution of this system is obtained for various values of the parameters of the problem. The graphical results are also presented which show that how efficiently the sound diffraction can be reduced by selection of problem parameters.
Investigation on spatial distribution of acoustic resonance in annular cavity: Frequency and intensity
Authors: Guo Zhifei , Liu Peiqing , Guo Hao
Published: April 2020

This paper studies the acoustic behavior inside the deep annular and cylindrical cavity at low Mach number. The turbulent shear layer above the cavity acts as a broadband noise source and drives resonant standing waves inside the cavity for various modes. According to previous investigation, those resonant standing waves inside the cavity play an important role in the aeroacoustic resonance of cavity noise, which gives perfect prediction of tonal frequency from the solution of wave equation. From the perspective of engineering application, it is more important to predict the spatial distribution of tonal intensity. It is needed to point out that the solution of the linear wave equation also provides the relative spatial distribution tonal intensity and the absolute value of tonal intensity can be determined from the acoustic experiments that is measured only at some locations. Based on this idea, a scheme is setup and validated to predict the amplitude spatial distribution of tonal intensity of aeroacoustic resonance. For example, an analytical model is established to provide the relative mode shape of aeroacoustic resonance in a simple geometry of cavity, which is realized by solving the wave equation with boundary conditions in a semi-closed space. This model considers the freestream velocity scaling and the depth correction factor varying with the Helmholtz number. The experimental aeroacoustic result is acquired by measuring the pressure fluctuation at some locations of cavity internal wall with the use of surface microphones. The experimental results are used to supplement and validate this analytical model. The amplitude spatial distribution at any freestream velocity (low Mach number) can be acquired by measuring the pressure fluctuation once at the leading edge or trailing edge of cavity bottom at an arbitrary Mach number, as the amplitude of most modes reaches its maximum here.
Does Proximity to a New Sports Facility Affect Existing Businesses’ Survival Time?
Authors: Propheter Geoffrey
Published: April 2020

Existing literature on the economic impact of sports facilities fails to consider whether new facilities positively affect existing businesses. To fill this gap, data on existing establishments in Sacramento, CA, active from 2004 through 2018 were collected. The outcome of interest is existing businesses’ survival time. Using an accelerated failure time model in a difference-in-difference framework, retail establishments within a half mile of the Golden 1 Center are found to have survival times 53% shorter than otherwise similar retail establishments further away. Models also reveal existing establishments in other industries complementary to sports are not affected by the arena.
The Aberrant Expression of MicroRNA-125a-5p/IGF2BP3 Axis in Advanced Gastric Cancer and Its Clinical Relevance
Authors: Zhang Jing , Ding Fanghui , Jiao Dan , Li Qiaozhi , Ma Hong
Published: April 2020

RNA-binding proteins have been associated with cancer development. The overexpression of a well-known RNA-binding protein, insulin-like growth factor 2 messenger RNA–binding protein 3, has been identified as an indicator of poor prognosis in patients with various types of cancer. Although gastric cancer is a relatively frequent and potentially fatal malignancy, the mechanism by which insulin-like growth factor 2 messenger RNA–binding protein 3 regulates the development of this cancer remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the role and regulatory mechanism of insulin-like growth factor 2 messenger RNA–binding protein 3 in gastric cancer. An analysis of IGF2BP3 expression patterns reported in 4 public gastric cancer–related microarray data sets from the Gene Expression Omnibus and The Cancer Genome Atlas-Stomach Adenocarcinoma revealed strong expression of this gene in gastric cancer tissues. Insulin-like growth factor 2 messenger RNA–binding protein 3 expression in gastric cancer was further confirmed via quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry, respectively, in an in-house gastric cancer cohort (n = 30), and the association of insulin-like growth factor 2 messenger RNA–binding protein 3 expression with clinical parameters and prognosis was analyzed. Notably, stronger IGF2BP3 expression significantly correlated with poor prognosis, and significant changes in insulin-like growth factor 2 messenger RNA–binding protein 3 expression were only confirmed in patients with advanced-stage gastric cancer in an independent cohort. The effects of insulin-like growth factor 2 messenger RNA–binding protein 3 on cell proliferation were confirmed through in vitro experiments involving the HGC-27 gastric cancer cell line. MicroR-125a-5p, a candidate microRNA that target on insulin-like growth factor 2 messenger RNA–binding protein 3, decreased in advanced-stage gastric cancer. Upregulation of microR-125a-5p inhibited insulin-like growth factor 2 messenger RNA–binding protein 3, and dual-luciferase report assay indicated that microR-125a-5p inhibited the translation of IGF2BP3 by directly targeting the 3′ untranslated region. These results indicate that the microR-125a-5p/insulin-like growth factor 2 messenger RNA–binding protein 3 axis contributes to the oncogenesis of advanced gastric cancer.
The electronic health record as a clinical trials tool: Opportunities and challenges
Authors: Bertagnolli Monica M , Anderson Brian , Quina Andre , Piantadosi Steven
Published: April 2020

Clinical trials provide evidence essential for progress in health care, and as the complexity of medical care has increased, the demand for such data has dramatically expanded. Conducting clinical trials has also become more complicated, evolving to meet increasing challenges in delivering clinical care and meeting regulatory requirements. Despite this, the general approach to data collection remains the same, requiring that researchers submit clinical data in response to study treatment protocols, using precisely defined data structures made available in study-specific case report forms. Currently, research data management is not integrated within the patient’s clinical care record, creating added burden for clinical staff and opportunities for error. During the past decade, the electronic health record has become standard across the US healthcare system and is increasingly used to collect and analyze data reporting quality metrics for clinical care delivery. Recently, electronic health record data have also been used to address clinical research questions; however, this approach has significant drawbacks due to the unstructured and incomplete nature of current electronic health record data. This report describes steps necessary to use the electronic health record as a tool for conducting high-quality clinical research.
Presynaptic long-term potentiation requires extracellular signal-regulated kinases in the anterior cingulate cortex
Authors: Chen Qi-Yu , Zhang Zhi-Ling , Liu Qin , Chen Chao-Jun , Zhang Xiao-Kang , Xu Ping-Yi , Zhuo Min
Published: April 2020

Extracellular signal-regulated kinases are widely expressed protein kinases in neurons, which serve as important intracellular signaling molecules for central plasticity such as long-term potentiation. Recent studies demonstrate that there are two major forms of long-term potentiation in cortical areas related to pain: postsynaptic long-term potentiation and presynaptic long-term potentiation. In particular, presynaptic long-term potentiation in the anterior cingulate cortex has been shown to contribute to chronic pain-related anxiety. In this review, we briefly summarized the components and roles of extracellular signal-regulated kinases in neuronal signaling, especially in the presynaptic long-term potentiation of anterior cingulate cortex, and discuss the possible molecular mechanisms and functional implications in pain-related emotional disorders.
Genetic haemochromatosis
Authors: Hannaway Liam , Wellman Sophie
Published: April 2020

Genetic haemochromatosis (GH) is the UK’s most common genetic condition inherited in an autosomal recessive manner. It is an iron overload disorder, in which increased intestinal absorption of iron leads to deposition of iron in organs and tissues, most commonly the liver, heart, pancreas, and joints. GH often presents in an insidious manner, and as a result is significantly underdiagnosed. It is a multi-system disease, in which patient care involves various specialities, including primary care. This article will outline the inheritance, diagnosis, treatment and implications of GH and aims to raise awareness of the condition in general practice.
Balloon Catheter Dilation in Pediatric Chronic Rhinosinusitis: A Meta-analysis
Authors: Patel Vijay A. , O’Brien Daniel C. , Ramadan Jad , Carr Michele M.
Published: April 2020

Background

Paranasal sinus balloon catheter dilation (BCD) represents a tool that has been shown to be safe in the management of pediatric chronic rhinosinusitis (pCRS); however, its efficacy compared to standard treatment regimens has not been well established.

Objective

The purpose of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the clinical utility of BCD in pCRS.

Methods

Articles reporting BCD for pCRS in patients under 18 years of age were identified via the following search terms: sinusitis OR rhinosinusitis AND balloon dilatation OR balloon dilation OR balloon sinuplasty OR sinuplasty AND adolescent OR children OR infant OR pediatric OR toddler. The primary outcome analyzed includes quality of life improvement as measured via Sinus and Nasal Quality of Life Survey (SN-5) or Sino-nasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22) scores.

Results

Eighty studies were abstracted; 10 studies were included for final qualitative analysis after dual investigator screening. Three studies described BCD with surgical controls, including adenoidectomy, saline irrigation, or maxillary antrostomy. Noninferiority was not demonstrated (ie, BCD is inferior) in 2 of 3 studies. Pooled analysis utilizing a random effects model revealed a decreased effect size yet no statistically significant difference between BCD and standard operative techniques as measured by quality of life measures ( g = −0.04, I2 = 41%).

Conclusion

This work highlights a lack of published evidence regarding the role of BCD in pCRS. Two of the 3 included studies demonstrated the inferiority of BCD when compared to other standard surgical interventions, whereas meta-analysis was unable to detect any statistically significant difference between standard treatment regimens. Future scientific investigations are necessary to assess the comparative effectiveness of BCD in pCRS.
Differences in the Exposure of the Lumbar Nerve Root Between Experts and Novices: Results From a Realistic Simulation Pilot Study With Force Sensors
Authors: Mehren Christoph , Korb Werner , Fenyöházi Esther , Iacovazzi Davide , Bernal Luis , Mayer Michael H.
Published: April 2020

Study Design:

Nonrandomized prospective trial.

Objective:

Several studies could demonstrate “learning curves” in almost every single surgical procedure for unexperienced surgeons. This is in sharp contrast to the rising quality requirements in public health care to provide surgical training at patients “expense.” The aim of this study was to visualize, measure, and set a baseline of the pressure load on the spinal nerve root during a simulated microdiscectomy on a standardized and validated model (RealSpine) under the influence of the level of surgical experience and individual skills.

Methods:

Five highly experienced spine surgeons and 5 trainees without considerable surgical experience were selected to perform a standardized microsurgical discectomy on a validated RealSpine simulator. Force-torque sensors were integrated in this simulator to measure the load on the nerve root. The forces were recorded every 125 ms.

Results:

We could identify cumulative for the total intervention as well as for defined single surgical steps of this procedure and as well in between the single subjects a significant higher tension and contusion forces on the nerve for the trainee group (Δp contusion 83-765 Nċs and Δp tension 159-1131 Nċs for the trainees. Δp contusion 16-171 Nċs and Δp tension 27-146 Nċs for the experts).

Conclusion:

We could measure a difference between unexperienced and experienced surgeons regarding the manipulations of the nerve root during a standardized simulated microdiscectomy. This possibility could be the starting point for a new and innovative surgical education to improve outcome without negative side effects of “learning curves.”
Shabbiha: Paramilitary groups, mass violence and social polarization in Homs
Authors: Üngör Uğur Ümit
Published: April 2020

Within a year, the Syrian uprising in March 2011 developed into a civil war that gradually escalated and within 9 years killed over half a million people, displaced half the country’s prewar population, devastated the economy, and destabilized the entire region, and even the world. The Syrian civil war split the country into four factions that were continuously at war with each other with intermittent, unstable ceasefires: the Assad regime, the various rebel groups, the Kurds, and the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS). The Assad regime was responsible for the bulk of the violence against civilians, qualitatively and quantitatively. Its violent crackdown on the mass protests in Syria became more extensive and intensive throughout the first years of the conflict. A key aspect of the regime’s repression against the population was its use of paramilitary forces, the so-called “ Shabbiha,” a catch-all category for irregular, pro-government militias dressed in (semi-)civilian gear and linked organically to the regime. From 2012 onward, they gradually became formalized, first in the Popular Committees (اللجان الشعبيه), and then in the National Defense Forces (قوات الدفاع الوطني) (NDF). Their violence strongly polarized sectarian relations in Syria, and therefore the Shabbiha are vital to understanding the broader conflict. This article will look at the mobilization and violence of the Shabbiha in the city of Homs. It is based on a combination of sources including ethnographic research, interviews with Shabbiha members, social media content, video clips, leaked documents, and testimonies of victims and other eye witnesses.
Simulation and analysis of a vertically irregular building subjected to near-fault ground motions
Authors: Lin Jui-Liang , Chen Wen-Hui , Hsiao Fu-Pei , Weng Yuan-Tao , Shen Wen-Cheng , Weng Pu-Wen , Li Yi-An , Chao Shu-Hsien
Published: April 2020

A shaking table test of a three-story reinforced concrete (RC) building was conducted. The tested building is vertically irregular because of the first story’s elevated height and the third story’s added RC walls. In addition to far-field ground motions, near-fault ground motions were exerted on this building. A numerical model of the three-story building was constructed. Comparing with the test results indicates that the numerical model is satisfactory for simulating the seismic response of the three-story building. This validated numerical model was then further applied to look into two issues: the effective section rigidities of RC members and the effects of near-fault ground motions. The study results show the magnitude of the possible discrepancy between the actual seismic response and the estimated seismic response, when the effective section rigidities of the RC members are treated as in common practice. An incremental dynamic analysis of the three-story RC building subjected to one far-field and one near-fault ground motion, denoted as CHY047 and TCU052, respectively, was conducted. In comparison with the far-field ground motion, the near-fault ground motion is more destructive to this building. In addition, the effect of the selected near-fault ground motion (i.e. TCU052) on the building’s collapse is clearly identified.
Excellent outcomes following hematopoietic cell transplantation for Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome: a PIDTC report
Authors: Burroughs Lauri M. , Petrovic Aleksandra , Brazauskas Ruta , Liu Xuerong , Griffith Linda M. , Ochs Hans D. , Bleesing Jack J. , Edwards Stephanie , Dvorak Christopher C. , Chaudhury Sonali , Prockop Susan E. , Quinones Ralph , Goldman Frederick D. , Quigg Troy C. , Chandrakasan Shanmuganathan , Smith Angela R. , Parikh Suhag , Dávila Saldaña Blachy J. , Thakar Monica S. , Phelan Rachel , Shenoy Shalini , Forbes Lisa R. , Martinez Caridad , Chellapandian Deepak , Shereck Evan , Miller Holly K. , Kapoor Neena , Barnum Jessie L. , Chong Hey , Shyr David C. , Chen Karin , Abu-Arja Rolla , Shah Ami J. , Weinacht Katja G. , Moore Theodore B. , Joshi Avni , DeSantes Kenneth B. , Gillio Alfred P. , Cuvelier Geoffrey D. E. , Keller Michael D. , Rozmus Jacob , Torgerson Troy , Pulsipher Michael A. , Haddad Elie , Sullivan Kathleen E. , Logan Brent R. , Kohn Donald B. , Puck Jennifer M. , Notarangelo Luigi D. , Pai Sung-Yun , Rawlings David J. , Cowan Morton J.
Published: April 2020

Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome (WAS) is an X-linked disease caused by mutations in the WAS gene, leading to thrombocytopenia, eczema, recurrent infections, autoimmune disease, and malignancy. Hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) is the primary curative approach, with the goal of correcting the underlying immunodeficiency and thrombocytopenia. HCT outcomes have improved over time, particularly for patients with HLA-matched sibling and unrelated donors. We report the outcomes of 129 patients with WAS who underwent HCT at 29 Primary Immune Deficiency Treatment Consortium centers from 2005 through 2015. Median age at HCT was 1.2 years. Most patients (65%) received myeloablative busulfan-based conditioning. With a median follow-up of 4.5 years, the 5-year overall survival (OS) was 91%. Superior 5-year OS was observed in patients <5 vs ≥5 years of age at the time of HCT (94% vs 66%; overall P = .0008). OS was excellent regardless of donor type, even in cord blood recipients (90%). Conditioning intensity did not affect OS, but was associated with donor T-cell and myeloid engraftment after HCT. Specifically, patients who received fludarabine/melphalan-based reduced-intensity regimens were more likely to have donor myeloid chimerism <50% early after HCT. In addition, higher platelet counts were observed among recipients who achieved full (>95%) vs low-level (5%-49%) donor myeloid engraftment. In summary, HCT outcomes for WAS have improved since 2005, compared with prior reports. HCT at a younger age continues to be associated with superior outcomes supporting the recommendation for early HCT. High-level donor myeloid engraftment is important for platelet reconstitution after either myeloablative or busulfan-containing reduced intensity conditioning. (This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT02064933.)
Bleeding and Response to Hemostatic Therapy in Acquired Hemophilia A (AHA): Results from the GTH-AH 01/2010 Study
Authors: Holstein Katharina , Liu Xiaofei , Smith Andrea , Knöbl Paul , Klamroth Robert , Geisen Ulrich , Eichler Hermann , Miesbach Wolfgang , Tiede Andreas
Published: April 2020

Acquired hemophilia A (AHA) is due to autoantibodies against coagulation factor VIII (FVIII) and most often presents with unexpected bleeding. In contrast to congenital hemophilia, the patient's residual FVIII activity does not seem to correlate with the risk of bleeding as suggested from previous studies. Risk factors for bleeding have not been described. We used data from the prospective GTH-AH 01/2010 study to assess the risk of bleeding and the efficacy of hemostatic therapy. FVIII activity was measured at baseline and weekly thereafter. Bleeding events were assessed by treating physicians. A total of 289 bleeds was recorded in 102 patients. 141 new bleeds starting after day 1 were observed in 59% of the patients, with a mean rate of 0.13 bleeds per patient-week in weeks 1 to 12, or 0.27 bleeds per patient-week before achieving partial remission. Weekly measured FVIII activity was significantly associated with the bleeding rate, but only achieving FVIII ≥50% abolished the risk of bleeding. A good WHO performance status assessed at baseline (score 0 vs. higher) was associated with a lower bleeding rate. Hemostatic treatment was reported to be effective in 96% of bleeds. In conclusion, the risk of new bleeds after a first diagnosis of AHA remains high until partial remission is achieved, and weekly measured FVIII activity may help to assess the individual risk of bleeding. These results will help to define future strategies for prophylaxis of bleeding in AHA.
Genome-wide identification of the amino acid permease genes and molecular characterization of their transcriptional responses to various nutrient stresses in allotetraploid rapeseed
Authors: Zhou Ting , Yue Cai-peng , Huang Jin-yong , Cui Jia-qian , Liu Ying , Wang Wen-ming , Tian Chuang , Hua Ying-peng
Published: April 2020

Background

Nitrogen (N), referred to as a “life element”, is a macronutrient essential for optimal plant growth and yield production. Amino acid (AA) permease (AAP) genes play pivotal roles in root import, long-distance translocation, remobilization of organic amide-N from source organs to sinks, and other environmental stress responses. However, few systematic analyses of AAPs have been reported in Brassica napus so far.

Results

In this study, we identified a total of 34 full-length AAP genes representing eight subgroups (AAP1–8) from the allotetraploid rapeseed genome (AnAnCnCn, 2n = 4x = 38). Great differences in the homolog number among the BnaAAP subgroups might indicate their significant differential roles in the growth and development of rapeseed plants. The BnaAAPs were phylogenetically divided into three evolutionary clades, and the members in the same subgroups had similar physiochemical characteristics, gene/protein structures, and conserved AA transport motifs. Darwin’s evolutionary analysis suggested that BnaAAPs were subjected to strong purifying selection pressure. Cis-element analysis showed potential differential transcriptional regulation of AAPs between the model Arabidopsis and B. napus. Differential expression of BnaAAPs under nitrate limitation, ammonium excess, phosphate shortage, boron deficiency, cadmium toxicity, and salt stress conditions indicated their potential involvement in diverse nutrient stress responses.

Conclusions

The genome-wide identification of BnaAAPs will provide a comprehensive insight into their family evolution and AAP-mediated AA transport under diverse abiotic stresses. The molecular characterization of core AAPs can provide elite gene resources and contribute to the genetic improvement of crop stress resistance through the modulation of AA transport.