bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Therapeutic potential of melatonin and melatonergic drugs on K18‐hACE2 mice infected with SARS‐CoV‐2
Authors: Cecon Erika , Izabelle Charlotte , Poder Sophie Le , Real Fernando , Zhu Aiwei , Tu Ly , Ghigna Maria Rosa , Klonjkowski Bernard , Bomsel Morgane , Jockers Ralf , Dam Julie
Published: September 2021

As the COVID‐19 pandemic grows, several therapeutic candidates are being tested or undergoing clinical trials. Although prophylactic vaccination against SARS‐CoV‐2 infection has been shown to be effective, no definitive treatment exists to date in the event of infection. The rapid spread of infection by SARS‐CoV‐2 and its variants fully warrants the continued evaluation of drug treatments for COVID‐19, especially in the context of repurposing of already available and safe drugs. Here, we explored the therapeutic potential of melatonin and melatonergic compounds in attenuating COVID‐19 pathogenesis in mice expressing human ACE2 receptor (K18‐hACE2), strongly susceptible to SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. Daily administration of melatonin, agomelatine, or ramelteon delays the occurrence of severe clinical outcome with improvement of survival, especially with high melatonin dose. Although no changes in most lung inflammatory cytokines are observed, treatment with melatonergic compounds limits the exacerbated local lung production of type I and type III interferons, which is likely associated with the observed improved symptoms in treated mice. The promising results from this preclinical study should encourage studies examining the benefits of repurposing melatonergic drugs to treat COVID‐19 and related diseases in humans.
Canine intrahepatic biliary disease
Authors: Jaffey J. A.
Published: September 2021

The intrahepatic biliary tract is comprised of a complex network of conduits that are essential in the transportation and formation of bile with components needed for fat digestion and absorption as well as the elimination of catabolised compounds. Derangements in this system can have dangerous sequela that affects morbidity and mortality. This review aimed to summarise clinically relevant updates on intrahepatic biliary disorders in dogs including human corollaries.
Proximity‐dependent biotinylation approaches to study apicomplexan biology
Authors: Kimmel Jessica , Kehrer Jessica , Frischknecht Friedrich , Spielmann Tobias
Published: September 2021

In the last 10 years, proximity‐dependent biotinylation (PDB) techniques greatly expanded the ability to study protein environments in the living cell that range from specific protein complexes to entire compartments. This is achieved by using enzymes such as BirA* and APEX that are fused to proteins of interest and biotinylate proteins in their proximity. PDB techniques are now also increasingly used in apicomplexan parasites. In this review, we first give an overview of the main PDB approaches and how they compare with other techniques that address similar questions. PDB is particularly valuable to detect weak or transient protein associations under physiological conditions and to study cellular structures that are difficult to purify or have a poorly understood protein composition. We also highlight new developments such as novel smaller or faster‐acting enzyme variants and conditional PDB approaches, providing improvements in both temporal and spatial resolution which may offer broader application possibilities useful in apicomplexan research. In the second part, we review work using PDB techniques in apicomplexan parasites and how this expanded our knowledge about these medically important parasites.
Advancement in Arthroscopic Superior Capsular Reconstruction for Irreparable Massive Rotator Cuff Tear
Authors: Li Huaisheng , Zhou Binghua , Tang Kanglai
Published: September 2021

Irreparable massive rotator cuff tear (IMRCT) was one of the causes of shoulder dysfunction, despite technical improvement, the failure rate of IMRCT was still demonstrated to be high. Traditional treatments like non‐surgical treatments, partial rotator cuff repair, and tendon transfers could only achieve a slight improvement. A potential cause for high failure rate was the fact that traditional treatments cannot restore the superior stability of glenohumeral joint, and thus restricted the movement of shoulder joint severely. Superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) using a variety of grafts (autograft, allograft, xenograft, or synthetic grafts) provided a promising option for IMRCT. In surgery, graft was fixed medially to superior glenoid and laterally to the footprint of humeral greater tuberosity. SCR could increase the stability of the superior glenohumeral joint, decrease the subacromial pressure and acromiohumeral distance. This review summarized the relevant literature regarding the alternative grafts, surgery indications, operative techniques and clinical outcomes of SCR. we compared the different grafts, key surgical steps, the advantages and disadvantages of different surgical methods to provide clinicians with new surgical insights into the treatments of IMRCT. In conclusion, IMRCT without severe glenohumeral arthritis was the best suitable indication for SCR. The clinical outcomes were positive in the short‐term and middle‐term following‐up. More studies were necessary to determine long‐term results of this surgical procedure.
Improvement of electrical synchrony in cardiac resynchronization therapy using dynamic atrioventricular delay programming and multipoint pacing
Authors: Schiedat Fabian , Mijic Dejan , Karosiene Zana , Bogossian Harilaos , Zarse Markus , Lemke Bernd , Hanefeld Christoph , Mügge Andreas , Kloppe Axel
Published: September 2021

Background

Optimization of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is often time‐consuming and therefore underused in a clinical setting. Novel device‐based algorithms aiming to simplify optimization include a dynamic atrioventricular delay (AVD) algorithm (SyncAV, Abbott) and multipoint pacing (MPP, Abbott). This study examines the acute effect of SyncAV and MPP on electrical synchrony in patients with newly and chronically implanted CRT devices.

Methods

Patients with SyncAV and MPP enabled devices were prospectively enrolled during implant or scheduled follow‐up. Blinded 12‐lead electrocardiographic acute measurements of QRS duration (QRSd) were performed for intrinsic QRSd (Intrinsic), bi‐ventricular pacing (BiV), MPP, BiV with SyncAV at default offset 50 ms (BiVSyncAVdef), BiV with SyncAV at patient‐specific optimised offset (BiVSyncAVopt), MPP with SyncAV at default offset 50 ms (MPPSyncAVdef), and MPP with SyncAV at patient‐specific optimised offset (MPPSyncAVopt).

Results

Thirty‐three patients were enrolled. QRSd for Intrinsic, BiV, MPP, BiVSyncAVdef, BiVSyncAVopt, MPPSyncAVdef, MPPSyncAVopt were 160.4 ± 20.6 ms, 141.0 ± 20.5 ms, 130.2 ± 17.2 ms, 121.7 ± 20.9 ms, 117.0 ± 19.0 ms, 121.2 ± 17.1 ms, 108.7 ± 16.5 ms respectively. MPPSyncAVopt led to greatest reduction of QRSd relative to Intrinsic (−31.6 ± 11.1%; p < .001), showed significantly shorter QRSd compared to all other pacing configurations (p < .001) and shortest QRSd in every patient. Shortening of QRSd was not significantly different between newly and chronically implanted devices (−51.6 ± 14.7 ms vs. −52.7 ± 21.9 ms; p = .99).

Conclusion

SyncAV and MPP improved acute electrical synchrony in CRT. Combining both technologies with patient‐specific optimization resulted in greatest improvement, regardless of time since implantation.

Whats new

Novel device‐based algorithms like a dynamic AVD algorithm (SyncAV, Abbott) and multipoint pacing (MPP, Abbott) aim to simplify CRT optimization. Our data show that a combination of patient tailored SyncAV optimization and MPP results in greatest improvement of electrical synchrony in CRT measured by QRS duration, regardless if programmed in newly or chronically implanted devices. This is the first study to our knowledge to examine a combination of these device‐based algorithms. The results help understanding the ideal ventricular excitation in heart failure.
Experimental philosophy on time
Authors: Norton James
Published: September 2021

Appeals to the ‘common sense’, or ‘naïve’, or ‘folk’ concept of time, and the purported phenomenology as of time passing, play a substantial role in philosophical theorising about time. When making these appeals, philosophers have been content to draw upon their own assumptions about how non‐philosophers think about time. This paper reviews a series of recent experiments bringing these assumptions into question. The results suggest that the way non‐philosophers think about time is far less metaphysically demanding than philosophers have assumed.
Correlation between home systolic blood pressure variability and cognitive impairment in maintenance hemodialysis patients
Authors: Xiao Huihui , Li Hua , Dong Liping , Song Xiaohong , Wu Yang , Wei Honglan , Shang Weifeng , Tian Ming , Dong Junwu
Published: September 2021

Introduction

To investigate the correlation between home blood pressure variability and cognitive function in maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) patients.

Methods

Patients who received MHD were included. Their home blood pressure on nondialysis days within 1 week was collected. All patients were assessed with the Montreal Cognitive Assessment scale, according to which the patients were divided into cognitive impairment (CI) group and non‐CI group, and the differences between two groups were compared.

Results

A total of 224 patients were included in the study, of which 168 had CI (75%). Compared with non‐CI group, patients in CI group had larger variability of systolic blood pressure (SBPV) (8.4 [6.7, 10.6]% vs. 6.9 [4.9, 8.8]%, P < 0.001). The smooth fitting curve (OR = 1.2, 95% CI [1.1–1.4], P < 0.001) and trend test (P for trend = 0.004) showed that the risk of CI raised with the increase of SBPV. The patients were further divided into tertiles according to the SBPV. We also found a gradual increase in the proportion of incident CI in the three tertiles. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that age, shorter years of education, less frequency of hemodialysis, and greater SBPV were the dependent risk of CI.

Conclusion

In conclusion, greater SBPV indicates higher risk of cognitive impairment in MHD patients.
The Impact of Mass Media‐Delivered Family Planning Campaigns in Low‐ and Middle‐Income Countries: A Meta‐Analysis of Advertising and Entertainment‐Education Format Effects
Authors: Rogers Dana , Snyder Leslie B. , Rego Michelle
Published: September 2021

Effective family planning methods are shown to save lives, contribute to gender equality, and boost economic development. Mass media communication campaigns in low‐ and middle‐income countries have been effective in increasing contraceptive use, although the strategies that increase the likelihood of success are unclear. The present study uses meta‐analyses to uncover the average effect of media campaigns on family planning behaviors in low‐ and middle‐income countries and to examine the effectiveness of two communication strategies: entertainment‐education and advertising/public service announcements. Results indicated that mass media‐delivered family planning campaigns have a positive impact on family planning behaviors: d = 0.19, 95% CI [0.15, 0.24] for women (k = 64), d = 0.16, 95% CI [0.11, 0.21] for men (k = 27), and d = 0.20, 95% CI [0.17, 0.23] for an undifferentiated target group of men and women (k = 37). The use of an entertainment‐education format, often in addition to campaign advertising messages, was associated with greater campaign success rates for women. Men, however, responded negatively to education‐entertainment and positively to campaigns using only advertising and public service announcement formats. Recommendations for future family planning mass media campaigns and academic research opportunities are discussed.
Asymmetry in sprinting: An insight into sub‐10 and sub‐11 s men and women sprinters
Authors: Bissas Athanassios , Walker Josh , Paradisis Giorgos P. , Hanley Brian , Tucker Catherine B. , Jongerius Nils , Thomas Aaron , Merlino Stéphane , Vazel Pierre‐Jean , Girard Olivier
Published: September 2021

We assessed sprint mechanical asymmetry in world‐class competitors and evaluated whether inter‐limb sex‐based differences in sprinting mechanics exist. The eight finalists in the men's and women's 100 m events at the 2017 IAAF World Championships were studied. Five high‐speed cameras (150 Hz) were used to capture two consecutive steps of the whole body between 47.0 m and 55.5 m from the start, while four additional cameras (250 Hz) focussed on the lower extremities. A total of 33 spatio‐temporal, touchdown and toe‐off joint angles, and horizontal and vertical foot velocity parameters were extracted through three‐dimensional analysis. Group mean asymmetry scores were assessed using the symmetry angle (SA) where scores of 0% and 100% represent perfect symmetry and perfect asymmetry, respectively. Although considered generally low (SA <3% for 22 out of 33 parameters), the magnitude of mechanical asymmetry varied widely between sprinters of the same sex. However, there was no mean SA scores difference between men and women for any stride mechanical parameters (all p ≥ 0.064). Asymmetry scores were inconsistent between parameters and phases (touchdown vs toe‐off instants), and sprinting mechanics were generally not related to asymmetry magnitudes. In summary, low to moderate asymmetry is a natural phenomenon in elite sprinting. Asymmetry was inconsistent between parameters and competitors during near maximum velocity running, yet mean values for a given parameter generally did not differ between sexes. Sprinters’ performances were not related to their SA scores.
Improving the students' learning process through the use of statistical applets
Authors: Variyath Asokan Mulayath , Nadarajah Tharshanna
Published: September 2021

Undergraduate statistics teaching has always faced the challenge of improving the learning quality on a continuous basis. Interactive statistical applets can enhance statistical knowledge by providing multiple representations of basic concepts and facilitating experimentation. The use of these applets will simplify the efforts for teaching statistics, especially in convincing students of the usability of statistics and facilitating quick learning in undergraduate courses. We developed and implemented a set of web‐based statistical applets from the following areas: Basic Statistics, Coin Toss App, Scatterplot‐Regression Line, Standard Normal Distribution, Normal Distribution, Histogram, Histogram (Case Examples), and Sampling ‐ Canada Map. These interactive applets can perform specific statistical tasks to improve the students' learning process.
Association between the length of storage of transfused leukoreduced red blood cell units and hospital‐acquired infections in critically ill children: A secondary analysis of the TRIPICU study
Authors: Flatman Leah K. , Fergusson Dean A. , Lacroix Jacques , Ducruet Thierry , Papenburg Jesse , Fontela Patricia S.
Published: September 2021

Objective

Evaluate the association between leukoreduced red blood cell (RBC) storage length and hospital‐acquired infection (HAI) incidence rate in critically ill children.

Background

RBC transfusions are common in critically ill children. Despite their benefits, observational studies suggest an association between them and HAIs. One possible mechanism for increased HAI is transfusion‐related immunomodulation due to bioactive substances' release as transfused blood ages.

Methods

In this secondary analysis of the ‘Transfusion Requirement in Paediatric Intensive Care Units’ (TRIPICU) study, we analysed a subset of 257 participants that received only one pre‐storage leukoreduced RBC transfusion. RBC storage length was classified as 1) transfusion of ‘fresh’ RBCs (≤10 days), 2) transfusion of ‘stored’ RBCs (21–34 days), and 3) transfusion of ‘long‐stored’ RBCs (≥35 days). All were compared to a ‘golden’ period (11–20 days), representing the time between ‘fresh’ and ‘stored’. We used quasi‐Poisson multivariable regression models to estimate the HAI incidence rate ratio (IRR) and corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

We found that the association between the length of storage time of leukoreduced RBCs and HAIs was not significant in the ‘fresh’ group (IRR 1.23; 95% CI 0.55, 2.78) and the ‘stored’ group (IRR 1.61; 95% CI 0.63, 4.13) when compared to the ‘golden’ period. However, we observed a statistically significant association between the ‘long‐stored’ group and an increase in the HAI incidence rate (IRR 3.66; 95% CI 1.22, 10.98).

Conclusion

Transfusion of leukoreduced RBC units stored for ≥35 days is associated with increased HAI incidence rate in haemodynamically stable, critically ill children.
Impact of hookworm infection and preventive chemotherapy on haemoglobin in non‐pregnant populations
Authors: Byrne Aisling , Manalo Giselle , Clarke Naomi E. , Vaz Nery Susana
Published: September 2021

Objective

To assess the impact of hookworm infection and preventive chemotherapy on haemoglobin levels in non‐pregnant populations in endemic areas.

Method

Systematic review and meta‐analysis searching PubMed and Web of Science for articles published since 2010 reporting either hookworm prevalence and Hb concentration (cross‐sectional studies) or Hb concentration before and after the implementation of preventive chemotherapy (before–after studies and randomised controlled trials [RCTs]). For papers published before 2010, data were extracted from a previously published systematic review. Random effects meta‐analyses were conducted to examine the relationship between Hb concentration and hookworm infection intensity (from cross‐sectional studies) and the effect of preventive chemotherapy on Hb concentration (from before–after studies and RCTs). Sensitivity analyses investigated the impact of malaria endemicity and combined interventions for schistosomiasis and nutrition status on Hb concentration.

Results

Among cross‐sectional studies, both light‐ and heavy‐intensity hookworm infections were associated with lower Hb in school‐aged children. School‐aged children with heavy hookworm infection in settings of high malaria endemicity had lower mean Hb than those in settings of low malaria endemicity. In non‐pregnant populations, deworming with albendazole was associated with an increase in Hb of 3.02 g/L (95% CI 0.1, 6.0 g/L). No additional benefit was seen with deworming using albendazole co‐administered with praziquantel for schistosomiasis infection or iron supplementation for nutrition status.

Conclusion

Our findings confirm the benefits of preventive chemotherapy as a public health intervention.
Phosphate starvation responsive GmSPX5 mediates nodule growth through interaction with GmNF‐YC4 in soybean (Glycine max)
Authors: Zhuang Qingli , Xue Yingbin , Yao Zhufang , Zhu Shengnan , Liang Cuiyue , Liao Hong , Tian Jiang
Published: September 2021

Phosphorus (P) deficiency adversely affects nodule development as reflected by reduced nodule fresh weight in legume plants. Though mechanisms underlying nodule adaptation to P deficiency have been studied extensively, it remains largely unknown which regulator mediates nodule adaptation to P deficiency. In this study, GUS staining and quantitative reverse transcription‐PCR analysis reveal that the SPX member GmSPX5 is preferentially expressed in soybean (Glycine max) nodules. Overexpression of GmSPX5 enhanced soybean nodule development particularly under phosphate (Pi) sufficient conditions. However, the Pi concentration was not affected in soybean tissues (i.e., leaves, roots, and nodules) of GmSPX5 overexpression or suppression lines, which distinguished it from other well‐known SPX members functioning in control of Pi homeostasis in plants. Furthermore, GmSPX5 was observed to interact with the transcription factor GmNF‐YC4 in vivo and in vitro. Overexpression of either GmSPX5 or GmNF‐YC4 significantly upregulated the expression levels of five asparagine synthetase‐related genes (i.e., GmASL2–6) in soybean nodules. Meanwhile, yeast one‐hybrid and luciferase activity assays strongly suggested that interactions of GmSPX5 and GmNF‐YC4 activate GmASL6 expression through enhancing GmNF‐YC4 binding of the GmASL6 promoter. These results not only demonstrate the GmSPX5–GmNF‐YC4–GmASL6 regulatory pathway mediating soybean nodule development, but also considerably improve our understanding of SPX functions in legume crops.
Computed tomographic appearance of sialoceles in 12 dogs
Authors: Oetelaar Garrett Swann , Heng Hock Gan , Lim Chee Kin , Randall Elissa
Published: September 2021

Published findings on the computed tomographic (CT) appearance of sialoceles are limited to brief descriptions from reported cases in eight dogs and one cat. The authors have seen sialoceles with CT characteristics that are not consistent with these previous reports. The purpose of this multicenter, retrospective, descriptive, case series study was to provide more detailed descriptions of the CT appearance of confirmed sialoceles in dogs. Dogs over a 10‐year period with cytologically or histologically confirmed sialoceles and pre‐ and postcontrast CT studies of the head were included. Multiple qualitative and quantitative features were described for each sialocele with histological correlation. Twelve dogs with a total of 13 sialoceles were identified, including: seven cervical sialoceles, three complex (combined cervical and sublingual) sialoceles, two sublingual sialoceles, and one zygomatic sialocele. All sialoceles were characterized by fluid attenuating, non‐contrast enhancing contents (median 18.5 HU) and soft tissue attenuating, contrast‐enhancing walls. The external margins of all sialocele walls were smooth; however, the internal margins in six sialoceles were irregular with poorly defined nodular to frond‐like protrusions. Mineralized foci of variable size (range < 1 mm to 4.8 mm) and attenuation (range 119 to 1253 HU) were present in seven sialoceles and histologically identified as sialoliths (three sialoceles) and osseous metaplasia (two sialoceles). A unique finding in the sialoceles in this study was the presence of intraluminal nodular to frond‐like protrusions arising from the wall. This study also reports the CT appearance of cervical and complex sialoceles and sialocele mineralizations.
Tissue predictability of elastography is low in collagenase induced deep digital flexor tendinopathy
Authors: Johnson Sherry A. , Biscoe Elizabeth W. , Eilertson Kirsten E. , Lutter John D. , Schneider Robert K. , Roberts Gregory D. , Cary Julie A. , Frisbie David D.
Published: September 2021

Elastography is an emerging imaging modality for characterizing tendon injury in horses, but its ability to differentiate tissue deformability relative to treatment group and biochemical properties using a prospective, experimental study design remain unknown. Objectives of the current study were to (a) to investigate differences in glycosaminoglycan, DNA, and soluble collagen levels in mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) treated limbs compared to untreated control limbs utilizing a collagenase model of tendinopathy; (b) compare elastographic features between treatment groups; and (c) determine tissue‐level predictive capabilities of elastography in relation to biochemical outcomes. Bone marrow was collected for MSC culture and expansion. Tendinopathy of both forelimb deep digital flexor tendons (DDFTs) was induced with collagenase under ultrasonographic guidance. One randomly assigned limb was treated with intra‐lesional MSC injection with the opposite limb serving as an untreated control. Horses were placed into a controlled exercise program with elastographic evaluations performed baseline (0) and 14, 60, 90, and 214 days post‐treatment. Postmortem biochemical analysis was performed. MSC‐treated limbs demonstrated significantly less (42%) glycosaminoglycan (P = .006). Significant differences in elastographic region of interest (ROI) percent hardness, ROI color histogram, and subjective lesion stiffness were appreciated between treatment groups at various study time points. Elastographic outcome parameters were weak predictors of biochemical tissue analysis, with all R2 values ≤ 0.50. Within this range of differences in glycosaminoglycan content between treatment groups, elastography outcomes did not predict biochemical differences. Tissue‐specific differences between DDFTs treated with MSCs compared to controls were apparent biochemically, but not predicted by elastography.
Reintegración social de exguerrilleros y exparamilitares en la experiencia de construcción de paz de la Asociación de Trabajadores Campesinos del Carare (ATCC)
Authors: Hernandez Delgado Esperanza  , Mouly Cécile , Gimenez Jaime
Published: September 2021

La teoría y práctica de Desarme, Desmovilización y Reintegración (DDR) son relevantes para los Estudios de Paz y resolución de conflictos, y especialmente para países con conflictos armados internos o en transición por alcanzar acuerdos finales de paz. Este artículo, producto de investigación para la paz, se centra en uno de los componentes del DDR, la reintegración, y, más específicamente, su dimensión social. Desde la teoría del DDR, analizamos la reintegración de exguerrilleros y exparamilitares en la experiencia campesina de construcción de paz de la Asociación de Trabajadores Campesinos del Carare (ATCC), reconocida con el Nobel alternativo de paz en 1990. Argumentamos que las iniciativas comunitarias de paz impulsadas por la ATCC han favorecido este proceso e identificamos sus características particulares, así como las ventajas y oportunidades que ofrecen estas iniciativas de paz y los aprendizajes que se derivan de esta experiencia.
Calibration and Optimization of an Insertion Electromagnetic Flowmeter With the Aid of Numerical Analysis
Authors: Ma Haibo , Ma Shilei , Moss Robert , Fisher Mark , Silaen Armin K. , Zhou Chenn Q.
Published: September 2021

Accurate measurement of the volumetric flowrate of working liquids is essential for process control, as well as energy consumption evaluation. Electromagnetic flowmeters have gained popularity in applications where low-pressure drop and low maintenance are required. Dwyer Instruments, Inc. recently developed an adjustable insertion electromagnetic flowmeter (IEF) featuring accurate and reliable measurement. However, unexpected and non-repeatable behavior in the K-factor was observed during the calibration process. The K-factor is the coefficient used to convert the measured electric potential to the flow velocity in pipes, and the non-repeatable behavior imposes challenges for precise measurement. A one-way coupled magnetohydrodynamics model was developed to reduce the effort and time of onsite troubleshooting and optimization. By modeling the measurement process, the transition of flow regimes and the regeneration of the boundary layer on the electrode surface were identified as the causes of the non-repeatable issue. Then, a series of parametric studies were performed to provide reliable solutions. A new design with further embedded electrodes to allow the smooth transition between boundary layers was recommended. The field test showed excellent repeatability by using the new design, and the non-repeatable issue was entirely resolved. The improvement in the IEF design was implemented in production in less than one week, and it reduced the calibration time by 50%.
Validating Perceived Sustainable Design Features Using a Novel Collage Approach
Authors: El Dehaibi Nasreddine , Liao Ting , MacDonald Erin F.
Published: September 2021

Designers are challenged to create sustainable products that resonate with customers, often focusing on engineered sustainability while neglecting perceived sustainability. We previously proposed a method for extracting perceived sustainable features from online reviews using annotations and natural language processing (NLP), testing our method with French press coffee carafes. We identified that perceived sustainability may not always align with engineered sustainability. We now investigate how designers can validate perceived features extracted from online reviews using a relatively new design method of collage placement where participants drag and drop products on a two-by-two axis collage and select features from a dropdown menu. We created collage activities for participants to evaluate French press products on the three aspects of sustainability: social, environmental, and economic, and on how much they like the products. During the activity, participants placed products along the two axes of the collage, sustainability and likeability, and labeled products with descriptive features. We found that participants more often selected our previously extracted features when placing products higher on the sustainability axis, validating that the perceived sustainable features resonate with users. We also measured a low correlation between the two axes of the collage activity, indicating that perceived sustainability and likeability can be measured separately. In addition, we found that product perceptions across sustainability aspects may differ between demographics. Based on these results, we confirm that the collage is an effective tool for validating sustainability perceptions and that features perceived as sustainable from online reviews resonate with customers when thinking of various sustainability aspects.
Can Induced Gratitude Improve Creative Performance on Repurposing Tasks?
Authors: Sisson N. M. , Impett E. A. , Shu L. H.
Published: September 2021

Urgent societal problems, including climate change, require innovation and can benefit from interdisciplinary solutions. A small body of research has demonstrated the potential of positive emotions (e.g., gratitude, awe) to promote creativity and prosocial behavior, which may help address these problems. This study integrates, for the first time, psychology research on a positive prosocial emotion (i.e., gratitude) with engineering-design creativity research. In a preregistered study design, engineering students and working engineers (pilot N = 49; full study N = 329) completed gratitude, positive-emotion-control, or neutral-control inductions. Design creativity was assessed through rated scores of responses to an Alternate Uses Task (AUT) and a Wind-Turbine-Blade Repurposing Task (WRT). No significant differences among AUT scores emerged across conditions in either sample. As only the pilot-study manipulation of gratitude was successful, recommendations are provided for further studies on the effect of gratitude on engineering-design creativity. The reported work may also inform other strategies to incorporate prosocial emotion to help engineers arrive at more original and effective concepts to tackle environmental sustainability, and in the future, other problems facing society.
Effect of Freeze Pipe Eccentricity in Selective Artificial Ground Freezing Applications
Authors: Zueter Ahmad F. , Madiseh Ali G. , Hassani Ferri P. , Sasmito Agus P.
Published: September 2021

Building concentric tubes is one of biggest practical challenges in the construction of freeze-pipes of selective artificial ground freezing (S-AGF) applications for underground mines. In this study, the influence of tubes eccentricity on phase-front expansion (i.e., expansion of the frozen body) and energy consumption of S-AGF systems is analyzed. A 1 + 1D semi-conjugate model that solves two-phase transient energy conservation equation is derived based on the enthalpy method. The 1 + 1D model is first validated against experimental data and then verified with a fully conjugate model from our previous work. After that, the 1 + 1D model is extended to a field-scale of typical underground mines to examine the effect of freeze-pipe eccentricity. The results show that concentric freeze-pipes form the desired frozen ground volume 17% faster than eccentric freeze-pipes. Also, the geometrical profile of the phase-transition front of the frozen ground is found to be significantly influenced by the freeze-pipe eccentricity. Furthermore, in the passive zone, where S-AGF coolants are isolated from the ground to reduce energy consumption, freeze-pipe eccentricity can increase the coolant heat gain by 20%. This percentage can increase up to 200% if radiation heat transfer is minimized.
Experimental Investigation of a Loop Heat Pipe With R245fa and R1234ze(E) as Working Fluids
Authors: Xu Guangming , Xie Rongjian , Li Nanxi , Liu Cheng
Published: September 2021

Two kinds of new refrigerant R1234ze(E) and R245fa were discussed as substitutes or supplements to traditional working fluids of loop heat pipes (LHPs) based on their favorable thermophysical properties and characteristics such as being safe and environmentally friendly. Thermal characteristics of a loop heat pipe with sintering copper wick at different charging ratios were experimentally investigated under variable heat loads. The results showed that the optimal charging ratio in the loop heat pipe range from 65% to 70%, and at this charging level, the R1234ze(E) system had better start-up response, while the R245fa system presented a stronger heat transfer capacity. The characteristic temperature of R1234ze(E) system was below 35 °C, and the corresponding thermal resistance was 0.08 K/W–1.62 K/W under heat loads ranging from 5 W to 40 W. The thermal resistance of the R245fa system was 0.18 K/W–0.91 K/W under heat loads of 10 W–60 W, and the operating temperature was below 60 °C. The loop heat pipes charged with the proposed new refrigerants exhibit superb performance in room temperature applications, making them beneficial for enhancing the performance of electronics and could provide a distinctive choice for the cooling of small-sized electronics especially.
Design Adequacy for Change in Pipeline Service: A Case Study
Authors: Gupta Abhinav , Tyagi Tribhuwan
Published: September 2021

Pipelines have proven to be the most reliable and efficient means of transportation of hydrocarbons. Different fluids from numerous sources have different physical, chemical and operational properties, thereby separate pipelines were laid for most of the fluids. However, laying of new pipelines is becoming more and more challenging with vast and complex network of existing pipelines and topographies being faced in both onshore as well as offshore. Moreover considering the huge laying costs and risks of damaging the delicate balance of flora and fauna by entering the unchartered territories, a point does arise to optimally utilize already existing massive pipeline infrastructure.

In this technical paper a method has been formulated to achieve such a cause. A case study from an existing subsea pipeline project of M/s ADOC (Japan) has been presented. Existing 8 inch subsea pipeline of M/s ADOC (Japan) from Hail Site Terminal (HST) to Mubarraz Island in UAE was originally designed for gas service. However, the client intended to use the same for treated sea water service. A thorough design adequacy check was performed to convert the existing subsea gas pipeline into a liquid pipeline. In such a case it is mandatory to check the adequacy of the pipeline for the intended service and design parameters which includes checking for suitability of already selected pipe wall thickness, on-bottom stability and free spans under the action of hydrostatic and hydrodynamic forces.

The methodology adopted for this project can be generalized in order to create a framework to establish a basis to use an existing pipeline for different services.
Complete Integrity Assessment of a Non-Piggable Multi-Diameter Cross Country Pipeline in a Network Shared by Multiple Electrically Continuous Parallel Pipelines
Authors: Mishra Amit , Vats Saurabh , Palacios T. Carlos A. , Joshi Himanshu , Khurana Ishan
Published: September 2021

A complete Pipeline Integrity Management System is the need of the hour. Apart from keeping in mind the enormous environment concerns in this rapidly dwindling era of hydrocarbons, a successful pipeline owner always strives to profitably operate their precious assets.

To operate a pipeline efficiently, a plan is required to maintain its health and increase the remaining life. Various types of pipelines pose various problems which the owner needs to resolve systematically and with a well-ordered approach.

A similar challenge was faced by a refinery in India. The refinery has a design capacity to process 15 MMTPA of crude per annum. The imports and exports are carried out through the local Port Trust which is one of the deepest inner harbour on the west coast. Multiple pipelines run to and from the refinery and the port trust (approximate distance — 10 km).

The subject pipeline in question currently transports Mixed Xylene (MX) from refinery to port. The pipeline has a diversified operating history with various other products being transferred in the past. However, the pipeline is used very scarcely.

The problem posed by the subject pipeline was similar to what many other cross-country pipelines face — the pipeline was not piggable. Five (5) other parallel pipelines share the same right-of-way, all of which are piggable and have their integrity assessment performed via Intelligent Pigging on a planned basis. There was also a concern about collecting the most accurate data since the pipeline had not undergone an integrity assessment since its commissioning in 2001. However, it was yearly pressure tested to ensure integrity of the pipeline. Parallel pipelines pose a bigger challenge for obtaining accurate data for a particular pipeline amongst them.

Keeping all this in mind, a complete integrity management was planned for the MX pipeline and thus concluded on performing a turnkey Direct Assessment (DA) program. The DA program included Internal Corrosion Direct Assessment (ICDA) to assess and manage the threats of internal corrosion, External Corrosion Direct Assessment (ECDA) for external corrosion threats and Stress Corrosion Cracking Direct Assessment (SCCDA) for determining susceptibility towards the threat of stress corrosion cracking on the pipeline.

Utilization of latest technologies helped in adapting and overcoming the multiple problems faced by legacy technologies especially in difficult ROW conditions and complex pipeline networks, such as the MX pipeline. This paper provides an insight into how an operator can combine latest available technologies and deploy it in unison with the complete integrity management plan.
Thermoviscous-acoustic metamaterials to damp acoustic modes in complex shape geometries at low frequencies
Authors: Kone Tenon Charly , Lopez Maël , Ghinet Sebastian , Dupont Thomas , Panneton Raymond
Published: September 2021

This article proposes a hybrid numerical-analytical approach to effectively predict the sound absorption coefficient of complex periodic metamaterials with a reasonably low computation time. A variation of an existing metamaterial, consisting of a periodic succession of necks and cavities, is also proposed. The design variation was intended to decrease the frequencies of the absorption coefficient resonant peaks and consists in adding eccentricity in the neck position. The hybrid approach combines a thermoviscous-acoustic (TVA) approach with the transfer matrix (TM) method. The TVA approach estimates the thermoviscous losses of acoustic waves in a periodic unit cell (PUC) of the metamaterial. The TM method is used to simulate the acoustic behaviour of the complete metamaterial from the TM of the PUC calculated numerically. The approach is compared to impedance tube measurements on prototypes of the metamaterial. The comparison shows that the proposed approach is in good agreement with the measured sound absorption coefficient. In addition, numerical simulations and experiments demonstrate that the proposed variation of the existing metamaterial results in a shift of the absorption peaks down in frequency without deteriorating their sound absorption performance.
Electric field control of magnon spin currents in an antiferromagnetic insulator
Authors: Liu Changjiang , Luo Yongming , Hong Deshun , Zhang Steven S.-L. , Saglam Hilal , Li Yi , Lin Yulin , Fisher Brandon , Pearson John E. , Jiang J. Samuel , Zhou Hua , Wen Jianguo , Hoffmann Axel , Bhattacharya Anand
Published: September 2021

Applying heat to a magnetoelectric antiferromagnet enables an electric field control of magnon spin currents.
Hybrid SMART spheroids to enhance stem cell therapy for CNS injuries
Authors: Rathnam Christopher , Yang Letao , Castro-Pedrido Sofia , Luo Jeffrey , Cai Li , Lee Ki-Bum
Published: September 2021

A hybrid 3D assembly method was developed to advance spheroid culture and enhance stem cell–based treatment of CNS injuries.
Alu
complementary DNA is enriched in atrophic macular degeneration and triggers retinal pigmented epithelium toxicity via cytosolic innate immunity
Authors: Fukuda Shinichi , Narendran Siddharth , Varshney Akhil , Nagasaka Yosuke , Wang Shao-bin , Ambati Kameshwari , Apicella Ivana , Pereira Felipe , Fowler Benjamin J. , Yasuma Tetsuhiro , Hirahara Shuichiro , Yasuma Reo , Huang Peirong , Yerramothu Praveen , Makin Ryan D. , Wang Mo , Baker Kirstie L. , Marion Kenneth M. , Huang Xiwen , Baghdasaryan Elmira , Ambati Meenakshi , Ambati Vidya L. , Banerjee Daipayan , Bonilha Vera L. , Tolstonog Genrich V. , Held Ulrike , Ogura Yuichiro , Terasaki Hiroko , Oshika Tetsuro , Bhattarai Deepak , Kim Kyung Bo , Feldman Sanford H. , Aguirre J. Ignacio , Hinton David R. , Kerur Nagaraj , Sadda Srinivas R. , Schumann Gerald G. , Gelfand Bradley D. , Ambati Jayakrishna
Published: September 2021

Endogenous
Alu
cDNA triggers inflammasome-mediated cell death in age-related macular degeneration.
Visual-inertial hand motion tracking with robustness against occlusion, interference, and contact
Authors: Lee Yongseok , Do Wonkyung , Yoon Hanbyeol , Heo Jinuk , Lee WonHa , Lee Dongjun
Published: September 2021

A visual-inertial skeleton tracking framework is presented for accurate, robust, and affordable hand tracking applications.
How adaptation, training, and customization contribute to benefits from exoskeleton assistance
Authors: Poggensee Katherine L. , Collins Steven H.
Published: September 2021

Training for 2 hours and customization of assistance contribute half and one-quarter, respectively, of the energy cost reduction from exoskeletons.
Structure-Based Discovery and Structural Basis of a Novel Broad-Spectrum Natural Product against the Main Protease of Coronavirus
Authors: Zhang Yuting , Gao Hongxia , Hu Xiaohui , Wang Qisheng , Zhong Fanglin , Zhou Xuelan , Lin Cheng , Yang Yang , Wei Junkang , Du Weian , Huang Huaiqiu , Zhou Huan , He Wei , Zhang Hua , Zhang Yuting , McCormick Peter J. , Fu Jinheng , Wang Dan , Fu Yang , Lu Xiaolu , Zhang Tengfei , Duan Jingjing , Qin Bingjie , Jiang Haihai , Luo Jun , Zhang Yan , Chen Qi , Luo Qunfeng , Cheng Lin , Zhang Zheng , Zhang Jin , Li Jian
Published: September 2021

The current pandemic has created an urgent need for broad-spectrum inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2. The main protease is relatively conservative compared to the spike protein and, thus, is one of the most promising targets in developing anti-coronavirus agents.
Simultaneous and Staggered Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus Coinfection of Cattle
Authors: Arzt Jonathan , Fish Ian H. , Bertram Miranda R. , Smoliga George R. , Hartwig Ethan J. , Pauszek Steven J. , Holinka-Patterson Lauren , Diaz-San Segundo Fayna C. , Sitt Tatjana , Rieder Elizabeth , Stenfeldt Carolina
Published: September 2021

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is a viral infection of livestock of critical socioeconomic importance. Field studies from areas of endemic FMD suggest that animals can be simultaneously infected by more than one distinct variant of FMD virus (FMDV), potentially resulting in emergence of novel viral strains through recombination.
Evaluation of the Properties of the DNA Methyltransferase from Aeropyrum pernix K1
Authors: Hayashi Mao , Sugahara Keisuke , Yamamura Akira , Iida Yasuhiro
Published: September 2021

In general, thermophilic bacteria with optimum growth temperatures over or equal to 60°C have been predicted to include only N4-methylcytosine or N6-methyladenine as methylated bases in their DNA, because 5-methylcytosine is susceptible to deamination by heat. However, from this study,A. pernixK1, with an optimum growth temperature at 95°C, was demonstrated to produce a DNA (cytosine-5)-methyltransferase.
Novel Freshwater Cyanophages Provide New Insights into Evolutionary Relationships between Freshwater and Marine Cyanophages
Authors: Zhang Dong , He Yiliang , Gin Karina Yew-Hoong
Published: September 2021

This study expands the current knowledge on freshwater cyanophage isolates and cyanophage genetic diversity, indicating that freshwater and marine cyanophages infecting
Synechococcus
spp. may share close genetic similarity and evolutionary relationships.
Development of an Inactivated H7N9 Subtype Avian Influenza Serological DIVA Vaccine Using the Chimeric HA Epitope Approach
Authors: Sun Zhihao , Wang Qiuxia , Li Gang , Li Jingzhi , Chen Sujuan , Qin Tao , Ma Hongwei , Peng Daxin , Liu Xiufan
Published: September 2021

DIVA vaccine is a useful tool for eradicating avian influenza, especially for highly pathogenic avian influenza. Several different DIVA strategies have been proposed for avian influenza inactivated whole-virus vaccine, involving the neuraminidase (NA), nonstructural protein 1 (NS1), matrix protein 2 ectodomain (M2e), or HA2 gene.
PGRMC1 Exerts Its Function of Anti-Influenza Virus in the Central Nervous System
Authors: Huang Kun , Zhang Yufei , Gong Wenxiao , Yang Yong , Jiang Lili , Zhao Lianzhong , Yang Ying , Wei Yanming , Li Chengfei , He Xinglin , Sun Xiaomei , Zou Zhong , Jin Meilin
Published: September 2021

Central nervous system (CNS) disease is one of the most common extra-respiratory tract complications of influenza A virus (IAV) infections. However, there is still little knowledge about IAV regulating host responses in brain.
Interplay of OpdP Porin and Chromosomal Carbapenemases in the Determination of Carbapenem Resistance/Susceptibility in Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Atrissi Jad , Milan Annalisa , Bressan Raffaela , Lucafò Marianna , Petix Vincenzo , Busetti Marina , Dolzani Lucilla , Lagatolla Cristina
Published: September 2021

This study examines the interplay of multiple factors in determining a pattern of resistance or susceptibility to carbapenems in clinical isolates of
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
, focusing on the role of previously poorly understood determinants. In particular, the impact of carbapenem permeability through OprD and OpdP porins was analyzed, as well as the activity of the chromosomal carbapenemases AmpC and PoxB, going beyond the simple identification of resistance determinants encoded by each isolate.
H5Nx Viruses Emerged during the Suppression of H5N1 Virus Populations in Poultry
Authors: Li Yao-Tsun , Su Yvonne C. F. , Smith Gavin J. D.
Published: September 2021

A major shift in the ecology of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5 viruses occurred from 2008 to 2014, when viruses with non-N1 neuraminidase genes (termed H5Nx viruses) emerged and caused global H5 virus outbreaks. Here, we demonstrate that nationwide control measures, including vaccination in China, successfully suppressed H5N1 populations in poultry, providing an opportunity for antigenically distinct H5Nx viruses to emerge.