bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modelling item scores of Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale Part III for greater trial efficiency
Authors: Sheng Yucheng , Zhou Xuan , Yang Shuying , Ma Peiming , Chen Chao
Published: February 2021

Aims

The multipart Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale is the standard instrument in clinical trials. A sum of scores for all items in 1 or more parts of the instrument is usually analysed. Without accounting for relative importance of individual items, this sum of scores conceivably does not optimize the power of the instrument. The aim was to compare the ability to detect drug effect in slowing down motor function deterioration, as measured by Part III of the Scale—motor examinations—between the item scores and the sum of scores.

Methods

We used data from 423 patients in a Parkinson's disease progression trial to estimate the symptom severity by item response modelling; modelled symptom progression using the severity and the sum of scores; and conducted simulations to compare the sensitivity of detecting a broad range of hypothetical drug effects on progression using the severity and the sum of scores.

Results

The severity endpoint was far more sensitive than the sum of scores for detecting treatment effects, e.g. requiring 275 vs. 625 patients per arm to achieve 60% probability of trial success for detecting a range of potential effects in a 2‐year trial. Nontremor items related to the left side of the body seemed most informative. The domain relevance of tremor items appeared questionable.

Conclusion

This analysis generated clear evidence that longitudinal modelling of item scores can enhance trial efficiency and success. It also called for reassessing the placement of the tremor items in the instrument.
Gender differences in acute stone admissions – should we have a lower threshold for treatment in female patients?
Authors: Down Chris , Malthouse Theo , Lobo Niyati , Ali Ahmed , Symes Andy , Coker Charles
Published: February 2021

Objectives

To examine the gender‐related differences in the presentation, management and outcomes of patients admitted with acute renal colic at our institution.

Patients and Methods

A retrospective analysis of 231 consecutive patients requiring inpatient admission for acute renal colic between October 2015 and March 2018. For each admission, data on demographics, admission blood results, stone characteristics, management and outcomes were collected. Differences between genders were compared using the chi‐squared and Student’s t‐test.

Results

Gender distribution was 35% female: 65% male. There was no significant difference in age, American Society of Anesthesiologists Physical Status Classification grade or history of diabetes. Women had a higher admission C‐reactive protein level (89.3 vs 32.9 mg/L, P < 0.001) and neutrophil count (10.0 vs 8.8 × 109/L, P = 0.04) than men. They also had more positive cultures (34.1% vs 6.0%, P < 0.001) and were more likely to require percutaneous nephrostomy insertion (9.8% vs 0.7%, P = 0.005). Women had more intensive therapy unit (ITU) admissions (12.2% vs 0.6%, P < 0.001) and longer lengths of stay (4.4 vs 1.8 days, P < 0.001) than men. There was no mortality in our series.

Conclusion

In the present study, women admitted with acute renal colic were more likely to have an associated infection than men and require rapid decompression. Although there was no difference in mortality, women experienced greater morbidity as evidenced by the higher rate of ITU admissions and longer length of stay. These differences are important to consider when assessing the suitability of conservative management for female patients.
Secondary structure dependence of amyloid‐β(1–40) on simulation techniques and force field parameters
Authors: Caliskan Murat , Mandaci Sunay Y. , Uversky Vladimir N. , Coskuner‐Weber Orkid
Published: February 2021

Our recent studies revealed that none of the selected widely used force field parameters and molecular dynamics simulation techniques yield structural properties for the intrinsically disordered α‐synuclein that are in agreement with various experiments via testing different force field parameters. Here, we extend our studies on the secondary structure properties of the disordered amyloid‐β(1–40) peptide in aqueous solution. For these purposes, we conducted extensive replica exchange molecular dynamics simulations and obtained extensive molecular dynamics simulation trajectories from David E. Shaw group. Specifically, these molecular dynamics simulations were conducted using various force field parameters and obtained results are compared to our replica exchange molecular dynamics simulations and experiments. In this study, we calculated the secondary structure abundances and radius of gyration values for amyloid‐β(1–40) that were simulated using varying force field parameter sets and different simulation techniques. In addition, the intrinsic disorder propensity, as well as sequence‐based secondary structure predisposition of amyloid‐β(1–40) and compared the findings with the results obtained from molecular simulations using various force field parameters and different simulation techniques. Our studies clearly show that the epitope region identification of amyloid‐β(1–40) depends on the chosen simulation technique and chosen force field parameters. Based on comparison with experiments, we find that best computational results in agreement with experiments are obtained using the a99sb*‐ildn, charmm36m, and a99sb‐disp parameters for the amyloid‐β(1–40) peptide in molecular dynamics simulations without parallel tempering or via replica exchange molecular dynamics simulations.
Association between area‐ and individual‐level socio‐economic factors with glycated haemoglobin—Evidence from a Portuguese population‐based study
Authors: Sousa‐Uva Mafalda , Barreto Marta , Roquette Rita , Matias‐Dias Carlos , Ribeiro Rogério , Manuel Boavida José , Nunes Baltazar
Published: February 2021

Aims

This study aims to estimate the associations between area‐level deprivation and individual‐level socio‐economic factors, as well as their interaction, with glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) levels.

Methods

We conducted a gamma multilevel regression analysis using individual‐level data from the Portuguese National Health Examination Survey and a deprivation index built through factor analysis, at municipality level, with census variables.

Results

Living in a municipality with high material deprivation and having a low level of education were independently associated with an increase of 2.3% (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.6, 4.0) and of 1.6% (95% CI 0.6, 2.7) in the mean levels of HbA1c, respectively. The interaction between area material deprivation and individual‐level education was not associated with the levels of HbA1c (0.5%, 95% CI −1.3, 2.3).

Conclusions

Our findings support the collective resources model that argues that people in less deprived areas have better health because there are more collective resources. The results suggest that to reduce socio‐economic inequalities associated with the levels of HbA1c and, consequently, with diabetes, will require attention to the area material deprivation and individual‐level education. Upstream social determinants of health are thus highlighted.
Preparation and characterization of cordierite glass–ceramics for bonding solar thermal transmission pipelines
Authors: Wu Jianfeng , Ding Chunjiang , Xu Xiaohong , Xu Xiaoyang
Published: February 2021

TiO2 was employed to develop cordierite glass–ceramics for thermal transmission pipeline binders by a melt‐quenching method. The effects of TiO2 on the phase composition, microstructure, and physical properties of glass–ceramics were studied. In addition, the thermal shock resistance of the glass–ceramics based binder was investigated. The results showed the formation of α cordierite could be increased by adding 1.0 wt% TiO2, thereby improving bending strength and decreasing the coefficient of thermal expansion. However, a 3‐5 wt% TiO2 additive resulted in massive generation of µ cordierite, which exhibited a negative effect on the above performances. After crystallization at 1000°C for 2 h, sample B1 (1 wt% TiO2 additional) displayed the best overall properties. It was demonstrated that cordierite glass–ceramics were satisfactory materials as heat transmission pipeline binders when the C2 binder (40 wt% frit, 60 wt% as‐prepared sample B1) was applied, which had a good thermal shock resistance.
Dermoscopy and reflectance confocal microscopy of balloon cell nevi: a series of 10 cases
Authors: Fusano Marta , Soglia Simone , Gianotti Raffaele , Bencini Pier Luca
Published: February 2021

Background

Balloon cell nevus (BCN) is a rare histopathological entity. It is usually represented by an asymptomatic brown smooth or polypoid lesion, but no clinical features allow differentiation from other melanocytic nevi. Moreover, dermoscopy and reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) aspects of BCN have been described in a few single cases. This study aims to describe a wider BCN series with dermoscopic and RCM features to assess the most frequent patterns.

Methods

Ten patients who underwent a BCN surgical excision with histological diagnosis were included in this study. Dermatoscopy and RCM were performed for each lesion, searching for the features described in literature.

Results

Each nevus presented as an asymptomatic, smooth brownish lesion. Regarding dermoscopy, four balloon cell nevi showed yellow globules, eight white globules, eight a light‐brown network at the periphery, and eight a structureless central area; moreover, we found a hyperpigmented central blotch in four cases. RCM examination highlighted aggregates of dense nests at superficial dermis level in all BCNs, characterized by the presence of a dark nucleus surrounded by vacuolized cytoplasm. Moreover, multiple melanophages were seen at the dermal–epidermal junction in one case and superficial epidermal dendritic cells in one case.

Conclusions

This series of 10 BCNs improves the dermoscopic and confocal microscopic knowledge of this rare entity. We also reported a new dermoscopic aspect represented by central hyperpigmented blotch. A correct identification of BCN with noninvasive techniques allows to avoid unnecessary surgical excision.
Subcritical crack growth models for static fatigue of Hi‐NicalonTM‐S SiC fiber in air and steam
Authors: Hay Randall S. , Robertson Scott J. , Ruggles‐Wrenn Marina B. , Piper Matthew , Shillig Theodore , Mitchell Ron , Kroeger Ben , Gumucio Logan
Published: February 2021

Three subcritical crack growth (SCG) laws were used to model strain‐rates and failure times for static fatigue of Hi‐NicalonTM‐S SiC fiber tows in air and Si(OH)4(g)‐saturated steam. Models were fit to tow failure times (tf) and steady‐state strain rates (ἑ) for brittle creep measured at 700 to 1100°C under initial applied stresses (σA) of 260 to 1260 MPa. A power law, a reaction‐rate law, and a bond‐energy law were used to describe SCG that caused sequential filament failure, and ultimately tow failure. Two versions of each model were developed. One allowed access of chemisorbed species to flaws throughout the fiber (mode 1) and another only allowed access to flaws at the SiC‐SiO2interface (mode 2). The stress increase on intact filaments as others fractured and as filaments oxidized, and the increase in stress intensity geometric factors (Y) as crack size increased were incorporated in the models. The fits to data were compared for the different models by using both simple regression analysis and orthogonal distance regression (ODR) analysis. Faster convergence and more consistent results were achieved using ODR analysis. Regression analyses found parameters for all models with similar error in data fits, so validity of a model could not be distinguished by regression analysis alone. For all models, the stress dependence of SCG rates was much stronger in steam than in air, and for most models activation energies were between 300 and 420 kJ/mol, regardless of environment. For the steam environment, the bond‐length parameter (δ) for the bond‐energy model was very close to the lattice parameter of β‐SiC (.436 nm), but in air it was significantly lower at 0.25‐0.26 nm, but still larger than the Si‐C bond length of 0.189 nm. Other factors suggest that either a bond‐energy based law or a modified version of a reaction‐rate law are the best choices for a SCG law. Filament strength distributions initially described by Weibull distributions could not be described by such distributions after application of the models. SCG mechanisms are discussed.
Discovery of the Griffiths phase in the quaternary nitrides Ge1−xSnxNFe3
Authors: Liu Chaocheng , Kan Xucai , Liu Xiansong , Feng Shuangjiu , Hu Jiyu
Published: February 2021

We report the Griffiths phase (GP) and transport behavior in the quaternary antiperovskite nitrides Ge1−xSnxNFe3 by a series of systematical magnetic susceptibility and thermoelectric behavior measurements. All the corresponding fitting exponent parameters λGP = 0.852 and 0.854 completely satisfy 0 ≤ λ ≤ 1 in GP regions for Ge0.7Sn0.3NFe3 and Ge0.8Sn0.2NFe3, respectively, indicating the different ferromagnetic concentrations in the system. An observed structural transition from distorted tetragonal structure (I4/mcm) to cubic antiperovskite (Pm3m) with increasing dopants should be responsible for the GP in Ge1−xSnxNFe3, which results in a magnetic phase transition from ferromagnetism (FM) to antiferromagnetism (AFM). Furthermore, the studies of electrical transport properties indicate that the Ge1−xSnxNFe3 series of compounds perform a Fermi liquid behavior at low temperature while the stronger electron‐phonon scatterings are found in the high‐temperature region. In addition, the intensive electron–electron correlation is also determined since much higher value of lattice thermal conductivity κl than the one of electronic thermal conductivity κe.
Development of magnetic recyclable spinel photocatalysts with enhanced sunlight‐driven degradation of industrial dyes
Authors: Tangcharoen Thanit , T‐Thienprasert Jiraroj , Kongmark Chanapa
Published: February 2021

Nanocrystalline nickel and copper‐substituted zinc aluminate spinel powders (NixZn1−xAl2O4 and CuxZn1−xAl2O4) with different additional ion concentrations (0 ≤ x ≤ 1) were successfully synthesized by the sol‐gel auto combustion method using diethanolamine (DEA) as a fuel. The structures, chemical bonds, morphologies, composition, surface area, and optical properties including the magnetic behavior of the obtained samples were investigated by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), the Brunauer‐Emmett‐Teller (BET) method, UV‐visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV‐DRS), and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). All characterization results confirmed that a single‐phase spinel structure was obtained for all calcined aluminate powders with various crystallite sizes and lattice constants. The band gap energy (Eg) of all modified aluminates is in the range of 2.99‐3.15 eV, which was found to be much lower than that of the pure sample (5.60 eV). These results indicate that the Ni2+ and Cu2+‐substituted ZnAl2O4 samples could be effectively photoexcited by both the ultraviolet and visible light. Evaluation of the samples to determine the photocatalytic activity was carried out through investigation of the way the four main pollutant types decompose when irradiated by sunlight. These pollutants were rhodamine B (RhB), methylene blue (MB), methyl orange (MO), and methyl red (MR). For all optimum samples of organic dyes, the efficiency of photocatalytic degradation achieved 96% by the end of 150 min. Furthermore, each of the modified photocatalysts could be reused and showed a high degree of stability. According to magnetic measurements, the S‐shaped curve of ferrimagnetism can arise in those samples with the optimum concentration, although pure ZnAl2O4 exhibits diamagnetic properties. In comparison to pure ZnAl2O4, the modified samples exhibit high enhancement in the remanent magnetization (Mr), which indicates that it is easy to recover those magnetic photocatalyst through the use of an external magnetic field application. These findings therefore serve as a strong indication that ZnAl2O4 powders substituted by both Ni2+ and Cu2+ may offer the capability to serve in environmentally beneficial harvesting of solar energy.
Molecular dynamics study of UO2 symmetric tilt grain boundaries around [001] axis
Authors: Borde Marion , Germain Allan , Bourasseau Emeric
Published: February 2021

Molecular dynamics and CRG empirical potential are used in this work to study the symmetrical tilt grain boundaries around the [001] axis in UO2. The analysis of atomic structures obtained by simulation shows excellent agreement with the Read and Schokley model (Read WT, Shockley W. Dislocation Models of Crystal Grain Boundaries. Physical Review. 1950;78:275) predicting the existence of regular dislocations in these grain boundaries. We calculated their energy of formation and cleavage as well as the energy of formation of Schottky defects and incorporation of xenon and krypton atoms in their proximity. This allowed us to determine how these properties evolve for this series of grain boundaries presenting similar geometric characteristics, as a function of the misorientation angle. In addition, the boundary between small and large misorientation grain boundaries has been determined around 20°, close to the value of 15° reported in literature.
High‐velocity pneumatic injection of non‐crosslinked hyaluronic acid for skin regeneration and scar remodeling: A retrospective analysis of 115 patients
Authors: MacGillis Diane , Vinshtok Yuri
Published: February 2021

Background

Pneumatic‐assisted high velocity jet injections are an alternative method for intradermal delivery of hyaluronic acid (HA) and demonstrated efficacy in dermal thickening and scar remodeling with minimal side effects.

Aims

We aimed to investigate the clinical efficacy comparing non‐crosslinked HA (NCL‐HA) and crosslinked HA (CL‐HA) for aesthetic skin concerns.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed charts of 115 patients treated with jet injected NCL‐HA and CL‐HA for skin rejuvenation, age‐related laxity and rhytidosis, hypertrophic and acne scars and striae.

Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) and the 5‐grade patient satisfaction scale were used for assessment of the treatment efficacy at the 3‐month follow‐up. Efficacy was separately analyzed between patients receiving NCL‐HA vs. CL‐HA. Longevity of treatment effect was measured by the time to voluntary return for repeat treatment.

Results

An average of 2.8 treatments was completed per patient with a low incidence of side effects including bruises (7%) and temporary local edema (1%). Patients were highly‐satisfied with the treatment results in all categories with the average satisfaction scores of 3.68 (NCL‐HA) and 3.76 (CL‐HA). An average GAIS score of 1.7 (“much improved”) was calculated for neck, décolleté and perioral areas. An overall GAIS score averaged as 1.78 (NCL‐HA) and 1.6 (CL‐HA). Longevity of the effect averaged 13.1 months for NCL‐HA and 13.2 months for CL‐HA groups.

Conclusion

Our retrospective data showed similar significant improvement of all aesthetic skin concerns in 115 subjects treated with either NCL‐HA or CL‐HA delivered intradermally by a high velocity jet‐injector device with minimal downtime, pain or side‐effects.
A proposed method of evaluating the yield stress of a thickened liquid using a simplified inclined plane test
Authors: Yasuda Toshitaka , Shimokasa Kenji
Published: February 2021

Managing the thickening index of food is important for dysphagia and helps in recognizing the static and dynamic rheological properties of the thickening agent. One dynamic property is the viscosity under a shear rate of 50 s−1, and one static property is the yield stress at a shear rate of 0 s−1. The purpose of this study is to design a simplified inclined plane test to identify the yield stress of a thickened liquid by observing flow behavior on an inclined plate. The yield angle (stress) is defined as the inclination angle of the plate just before the thickened liquid flows. The concentrations (yield stresses, yield angles) of a thickening agent containing xanthan gum are 1.0 (1.2, 3°), 1.5 (5.6, 13°), 2.0 (7.5, 26°), 2.5 (12.5, 26°), and 3.0 (19.1, 42°) wt% (Pa, degrees). We measured the time course of the displacement of the downstream edge (DDE) of the thickened liquid on the inclined plate. The discrete inclination angles were in the range of 0° to 42°. The DDE after 10 s was more than 4.5 mm for all concentrations of the thickening agent at an inclination greater than the yield angle of the plate. We confirmed that the yield angle identifies the yield stress for the thickened liquid via the DDE using the simplified inclined plane test with discrete inclination angles.
Spanish Constitutionalism in Catalonia: An anthropology of civic nationalism
Authors: Pinho dos Santos Raquel
Published: February 2021

This paper explores the nationalist conflict in Catalonia and how it is lived and experienced by actors within it. It focuses on the people mobilised against independence who see themselves primarily as defenders of the Spanish Constitution and not of Spanish nationalism. Critics of civic nationalism in political theory and Nationalism Studies argue that anti‐nationalist rhetoric tends to be the expression of structural or hegemonic nationalism. Drawing on fieldwork carried out in Barcelona, I look at how the conflict has influenced discourse and language used in everyday life, how participants negotiate their identity, why people do (and do not) get involved in organisations that defend their political ideas, how they see themselves within the conflict and their perceptions of public space and its significance in relation to the constitution. An ethnographic approach explores these issues and discovers that although anti‐independence actors base their mobilisation in nationalism, civic nationalism cannot be reduced to just another form of nationalism. I aim to go beyond critics of civic nationalism to explore how my interlocutors act within and against nationalism, reproducing nationalist discourse in some aspect (boundaries of the nation) in order to challenge it in others (content and relevance of nationalism in everyday life).
Application of Image Registration to Analyze the Clavicular Rotation of Normal Upper Limb Motion in the Sagittal Plane
Authors: Su Peng , Zhou Jun‐lin , Liu Feng , Zhang Yi
Published: February 2021

Objective

To use image registration techniques to study the clavicular rotation of the shoulders in the sagittal plane.

Methods

From 28 April 2019 to 20 May 2019, 13 healthy adults (7 males and 6 females) with no history of shoulder trauma surgery or chronic pain were recruited. Patients’ ages ranged from 22 to 42 years, with a mean age of 26.5 years. Three‐dimensional composite images of the sternum–clavicle–humerus were taken using CT images of upper limb movement in the sagittal plane in the 13 healthy adults. Four different postures were registered: (i) anatomical supine position; (ii) elbow joints lifted anteriorly in the supine position; (iii) posterosuperior hyperextension of the elbow joints in the prone position; and (iv) posteroinferior hyperextension of the elbow joints in the prone position. Image data from the humerus and clavicle in three of the postures were processed to calculate Euler angles for movements in the sagittal plane. SPSS 19 was used to perform statistical analyses.

Results

There was no significant difference in the angles of change in the clavicle and humerus between the dominant and non‐dominant sides under different movement patterns. For upper limb movements in the sagittal plane, the clavicle displayed different Euler angles in different postures. The rotation angle from the anatomical to the horizontal position was the smallest angle, with an average value of 7.1°, whereas the rotation angle from horizontal to posterosuperior hyperextension was the largest, with an average value of 37.2°. When the upper limb moved from anterior protraction to a posterosuperior extension, the intrinsic rotation angle of the clavicle reached its maximum, with an average value of 27.9°; when moved from the anatomical to the horizontal position, 9.1% of the sagittal rotation was executed by the clavicle. During rotation from the horizontal position to posterosuperior hyperextension and from the anatomical to posterior extension, the clavicle showed relatively higher weights at 29.5% and 37.0%, respectively.

Conclusion

Our results showed that dominance was not a consideration when studying clavicular rotation. Image registration is an effective method that can be used to study upper limb scapular movements. Through comparing and analyzing the data, two postures had relatively large changes in the rotation angle. This can help improve indicators of clavicular rotational function during physical examinations and postoperative functional evaluations.
Recovery‐oriented care: mental health workers’ attitudes towards recovery from mental illness
Authors: Egeland Karina Myhren , Benth Jūratė Šaltytė , Heiervang Kristin Sverdvik
Published: February 2021

Background

The Recovery Knowledge Inventory (RKI) was developed to operationalise the recovery construct and in turn contribute to moving mental health services towards recovery‐oriented practice. This study validated the RKI in a sample of Norwegian mental health care practitioners and examined mental health workers’ knowledge of and attitudes towards patient recovery.

Methods

The RKI was translated into Norwegian and tested on 317 mental health workers from 7 primary and 22 specialised mental health care units within a defined geographical area of Norway.

Results

Psychometric challenges to the RKI were observed and called into question the previously proposed four‐factor structure. The findings of the scale revealed that the study sample scored significantly lower than a comparable sample in a previous study, suggesting that the Norwegian mental health workers have relatively low orientation towards recovery. This finding was especially applicable to the reduction of symptoms and treatment, which the respondents perceived as essential for recovering from mental illnesses and substance abuse disorders.

Conclusions

To operationalise the recovery construct, the development of a measure such as the RKI needs further attention. For psychiatric practice to be moved in a more recovery‐oriented direction, consensus on what constitutes well‐functioning recovery must be reached by patients, practitioners and researchers alike.
Special Section: Introduction to Legacies From Sociology’s Past
Authors: Portes Alejandro
Published: February 2021

This article introduces brief statements from a set of presidential panels held at the 2020 meetings of the Eastern Sociological Society, held in Philadelphia February 27‐March 1. The panels were dedicated to honor a group of five prominent figures from our collective past and explore their contributions to the discipline.
Versatile allosteric properties in Pex5‐like tetratricopeptide repeat proteins to induce diverse downstream function
Authors: Bürgi Jérôme , Ekal Lakhan , Wilmanns Matthias
Published: February 2021

Proteins composed of tetratricopeptide repeat (TPR) arrays belong to the α‐solenoid tandem‐repeat family that have unique properties in terms of their overall conformational flexibility and ability to bind to multiple protein ligands. The peroxisomal matrix protein import receptor Pex5 comprises two TPR triplets that recognize protein cargos with a specific C‐terminal Peroxisomal Targeting Signal (PTS) 1 motif. Import of PTS1‐containing protein cargos into peroxisomes through a transient pore is mainly driven by allosteric binding, coupling and release mechanisms, without a need for external energy. A very similar TPR architecture is found in the functionally unrelated TRIP8b, a regulator of the hyperpolarization‐activated cyclic nucleotide‐gated (HCN) ion channel. TRIP8b binds to the HCN ion channel via a C‐terminal sequence motif that is nearly identical to the PTS1 motif of Pex5 receptor cargos. Pex5, Pex5‐related Pex9, and TRIP8b also share a less conserved N‐terminal domain. This domain provides a second protein cargo‐binding site and plays a distinct role in allosteric coupling of initial cargo loading by PTS1 motif‐mediated interactions and different downstream functional readouts. The data reviewed here highlight the overarching role of molecular allostery in driving the diverse functions of TPR array proteins, which could form a model for other α‐solenoid tandem‐repeat proteins involved in translocation processes across membranes.
Internet-Based Concurrent Engineering: An Interactive 3D System With Markup
Authors: Kim Cheol-Young , Kim Namkug , Kim Yeongho , Kang Suk-Ho , O’Grady Peter
Published: February 2021

Although Concurrent Engineering can offer substantial benefits, and hence many companies take a strong interest in the collaborative approach, it is not yet clear how it can best be implemented, particularly for a geographically distributed Concurrent Engineering team that may be using a disparate range of computer systems. The recent rise in the number connected to the Internet would offer the possibility of using Internet standards to allow for collaboration over the Internet. Central to the use of Internet standards for Concurrent Engineering is the key area of transmitting and viewing CAD and engineering information, and of communication between team members. This paper is concerned with addressing this issue and describes the how 3D CAD files can be viewed, and engineering information exchanged, by geographically distributed team members in an interactive manner using Internet standards. In particular this paper is concerned with the issue of storing STEP data so that it can be retrieved efficiently, how this data can be converted from STEP data to the Virtual Reality Modeling Language (VRML) to allow the product to be viewed in interactive 3-D on a wide number of platforms using the Internet, and is concerned with the issue of how team members can markup the VRML worlds, with other team members being able to examine the markup comments of others. An algorithm for converting STEP data to VRML is described and an overview of the implementation of this approach, in a system called CyberView, is given.

The result of this is that users from disparate functions, on a wide variety of platforms, can view products in interactive 3-D through the Internet, can comment on aspects of the design, and can examine the markup comments of other team members on particular aspects of the design. Such an approach offers the promise of improved communication and hence for enhancing the product development process.
Sketch-N-Make: Automated Machining of CAD Sketches
Authors: Bloomenthal Mark , Zeleznik Robert , Fish Russell , Holden Loring , Forsberg Andrew , Riesenfeld Richard , Cutts Matt , Drake Samuel , Fuchs Henry , Cohen Elaine
Published: February 2021

Sketch-N-Make is a prototype system that enables individuals to create dimensioned designs quickly for a restricted, but broadly useful, domain of machined metal and plastic prismatic parts. Process plans, fixturing, tool selection, feeds and speeds, and toolpaths are automatically generated from the designs allowing parts to be manufactured on a machining center with the aid only of a technician who prepares and loads the stock and cutting tools.

The system employs a gestural interface that exploits familiar pencil sketching paradigms to allow users to create and manipulate geometry without specifying the details required for manufacturing. The system transforms the geometry into a high-level feature-based model that represents the geometry and additional information from which machining features are derived.

The sketching interface has mechanisms to constrain and parameterize 3D model geometry in ways required for precise part design and design iteration. The user can modify iteratively the geometric representation causing the system to automatically update the feature-based model accordingly. Then the system generates the necessary machining operations to manufacture the geometry on a machining center according to a family of process plans.

The synergy between the choices for part domain, user interface, and process plan family helps provide a smooth and rapid pathway from concept to detailed design to machined metal or plastic parts.
An Automated CFD Design and Analysis Tool for Inlet-Bleed Systems
Authors: Shih Tom I-P. , Lin Yu-Liang , Flores Andrew J. , Stephens Mark A. , Rimlinger Mark J. , Willis Brian P.
Published: February 2021

A pre-processor was developed to assist CFD experts and non-experts in performing steady, three-dimensional Navier-Stokes analysis of a class of inlet-bleed problems involving oblique shock-wave/ boundary-layer interactions on a flat plate with bleed into a plenum through rows of circular holes. With this pre-processor, once geometry (e.g., hole dimensions and arrangement) and flow conditions (e.g., Mach number, boundary-layer thickness, incident shock location) are inputted, it will automatically generate every file needed to perform a CFD analysis from the grid system to initial and boundary conditions. This is accomplished by accessing a knowledge base established by experts who understand both CFD and the class of problems being analyzed. For experts in CFD, this tool greatly reduces the amount of time and effort needed to setup a problem for CFD analysis. It also provides experts with knobs to make changes to the setup if desired. For non-experts in CFD, this tool enables reliable and correct usage of CFD. A typical session on a workstation from data input to the generation of all files needed to perform a CFD analysis involves less than ten minutes.

This pre-processor, referred to as AUTOMAT-V2, is an improved version of a code called AUTOMAT. Improvements made include: (1) multi-block structured grids can be patched in addition to being overlapped; (2) embedded grids can be introduced near bleed holes to reduce the number of grid points/cells needed by a factor of up to four; (3) grid systems generated allow up to three levels of multigrid; (4) CFL3D is supported in addition to OVERFLOW, two well-known and highly regarded Navier-Stokes solvers developed at NASA’s Langley and Ames Research Centers; (5) all files needed to run RONNIE for patched grids and MAGGIE for overlapped grids are also generated; and (6) more design parameters can be investigated including the study of micro bleed and effects of flow/hole misalignments.
Healthcare use and costs in the last year of life: a national population data linkage study
Authors: Diernberger Katharina , Luta Xhyljeta , Bowden Joanna , Fallon Marie , Droney Joanne , Lemmon Elizabeth , Gray Ewan , Marti Joachim , Hall Peter
Published: February 2021

Background

People who are nearing the end of life are high users of healthcare. The cost to providers is high and the value of care is uncertain.

Objectives

To describe the pattern, trajectory and drivers of secondary care use and cost by people in Scotland in their last year of life.

Methods

Retrospective whole-population secondary care administrative data linkage study of Scottish decedents of 60 years and over between 2012 and 2017 (N=274 048).

Results

Secondary care use was high in the last year of life with a sharp rise in inpatient admissions in the last 3 months. The mean cost was £10 000. Cause of death was associated with differing patterns of healthcare use: dying of cancer was preceded by the greatest number of hospital admissions and dementia the least. Greater age was associated with lower admission rates and cost. There was higher resource use in the urban areas. No difference was observed by deprivation.

Conclusions

Hospitalisation near the end of life was least frequent for older people and those living rurally, although length of stay for both groups, when they were admitted, was longer. Research is required to understand if variation in hospitalisation is due to variation in the quantity or quality of end-of-life care available, varying community support, patient preferences or an inevitable consequence of disease-specific needs.
Oncogenetic landscape of lymphomagenesis in coeliac disease
Authors: Cording Sascha , Lhermitte Ludovic , Malamut Georgia , Berrabah Sofia , Trinquand Amélie , Guegan Nicolas , Villarese Patrick , Kaltenbach Sophie , Meresse Bertrand , Khater Sherine , Dussiot Michael , Bras Marc , Cheminant Morgane , Tesson Bruno , Bole-Feysot Christine , Bruneau Julie , Molina Thierry Jo , Sibon David , Macintyre Elizabeth , Hermine Olivier , Cellier Christophe , Asnafi Vahid , Cerf-Bensussan Nadine
Published: February 2021

Objective

Enteropathy-associated T-cell lymphoma (EATL) is a rare but severe complication of coeliac disease (CeD), often preceded by low-grade clonal intraepithelial lymphoproliferation, referred to as type II refractory CeD (RCDII). Knowledge on underlying oncogenic mechanisms remains scarce. Here, we analysed and compared the mutational landscape of RCDII and EATL in order to identify genetic drivers of CeD-associated lymphomagenesis.

Design

Pure populations of RCDII-cells derived from intestinal biopsies (n=9) or sorted from blood (n=2) were analysed by whole exome sequencing, comparative genomic hybridisation and RNA sequencing. Biopsies from RCDII (n=50), EATL (n=19), type I refractory CeD (n=7) and uncomplicated CeD (n=18) were analysed by targeted next-generation sequencing. Moreover, functional in vitro studies and drug testing were performed in RCDII-derived cell lines.

Results

80% of RCDII and 90% of EATL displayed somatic gain-of-functions mutations in the JAK1-STAT3 pathway, including a remarkable p.G1097 hotspot mutation in the JAK1 kinase domain in approximately 50% of cases. Other recurrent somatic events were deleterious mutations in nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B-cells (NF-κB) regulators TNFAIP3 and TNIP3 and potentially oncogenic mutations in TET2, KMT2D and DDX3X. JAK1 inhibitors, and the proteasome inhibitor bortezomib could block survival and proliferation of malignant RCDII-cell lines.

Conclusion

Mutations activating the JAK1-STAT3 pathway appear to be the main drivers of CeD-associated lymphomagenesis. In concert with mutations in negative regulators of NF-κB, they may favour the clonal emergence of malignant lymphocytes in the cytokine-rich coeliac intestine. The identified mutations are attractive therapeutic targets to treat RCDII and block progression towards EATL.
Validation of the Lyon classification for GORD diagnosis: acid exposure time assessed by prolonged wireless pH monitoring in healthy controls and patients with erosive oesophagitis
Authors: Rusu Radu-Ionut , Fox Mark R , Tucker Emily , Zeki Sebastian , Dunn Jason M , Jafari Jafar , Warburton Fiona , Wong Terry
Published: February 2021

Objective

Acid exposure time (AET) from ambulatory pH studies and reflux oesophagitis are independent measurements used by the Lyon classification to diagnose GORD. This study aimed to validate AET reference ranges and diagnostic thresholds by analysis of 96-hour wireless pH studies from healthy, asymptomatic controls (HCs) and patients with and without oesophagitis.

Design

HC and consecutive patients referred for wireless pH studies (off acid suppressants for >7 days) underwent 96-hour pH studies at two tertiary referral centres. Erosive oesophagitis was categorised by the Los Angeles (LA) classification. Linear regression and receiver operating curve (ROC) analysis were performed to define optimal diagnostic cut-offs.

Results

Prolonged, 96-hour pH studies were completed in 39 HCs (age 28 (18–53) years, 72% female) and 944 patients (age 46 (16–85) years, 65% female), of whom 136 (14.5%) had reflux oesophagitis. Median AET in HC was 1.3% (upper 95th percentile 4.6%) for any study day and 2.6% (upper 95th percentile 6.9%) for the worst day (24-hour period) during the study. ROC analysis for average AET differentiated HC from patients with moderate-to-severe oesophagitis (LA BCD; sensitivity 87%, specificity 95%, positive predictive value (PPV) 59%, negative predictive value 99% for a cut-off AET of 4.3%; area under the receiver operating curve 0.95). Specificity was higher, but PPV was substantially lower for severe oesophagitis (LA CD). ‘Worst-day’ analysis provided similar results; however, day-to-day variability was high.

Conclusion

Diagnostic thresholds for average AET were identified that accurately discriminate between HCs and patients with erosive oesophagitis. The findings provide conditional support for diagnostic criteria for GORD proposed by the Lyon Consensus.
Prevalence and risk factors for road traffic injuries and mortalities in Ethiopia: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Denu Zewditu Abdissa , Osman Mensur Yassin , Bisetegn Telake Azale , Biks Gashaw Andargie , Gelaye Kassahun Alemu
Published: February 2021

Background

Road traffic injuries, which are responsible for premature deaths and functional losses, are the leading causes of unintentional injuries in Ethiopia. As most studies on road traffic injuries, so far, have been either local or regional, it is believed that combining the regional or local data to get nationally representative information could help programme implementers in setting priorities.

Objective

The aim of this review was to estimate the proportion of road traffic injuries, mortality and risk factors for the problem among all age groups in Ethiopia.

Data sources

A systematic review of articles using MEDLINE/PubMed SCOPUS Web of Science and science direct was conducted. Additional studies were identified via manual search.

Study selection

Only studies that reported road traffic injuries and/or mortalities for all age groups were included in this review.

Data synthesis

All pooled analyses were based on random-effect models. Twenty-six studies for the prevalence of RTIs (n=37 424), 24 studies for road traffic injuries (RTI) mortality, (n=38 888), 9 studies for prevalence of fracture among RTIs (n=2817) and 5 studies for the prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder (n=1733) met our inclusion criteria. Driving in the dark increased severity of injury by 1.77, 95% CI 1.60 to 1.95). The certainty of the evidence was assessed using GRADEpro Guideline Development Tool.

Conclusion

In this review, the burden of road traffic injuries and mortalities remains high in Ethiopia. Human factors are the most common causes of the problem in Ethiopia. The existing safety regulations should be re-evaluated and supported by continuous behavioural interventions.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42019124406.
Dietary Reference Intakes based on chronic disease endpoints: outcomes from a case study workshop for omega 3’s EPA and DHA
Authors: Racey Megan , MacFarlane Amanda , Carlson Susan E. , Stark Ken D. , Plourde Mélanie , Field Catherine J. , Yates Allison A. , Wells George , Grantham Andrea , Bazinet Richard P. , Ma David W.L.
Published: February 2021

Given the focus on developing Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs) based on chronic disease risk reduction and recent research for omega-3 long chain PUFA since the last DRI review, the Canadian Nutrition Society convened a panel of stakeholders for a 1-day workshop in late 2019. Attendees discussed the new NASEM guidelines for establishing DRI values based on chronic disease risk endpoints and the strength of current evidence for EPA and DHA as it relates to the new guidelines.

Novelty: Summarizes evidence and expert opinions regarding the potential for reviewing DRI values for EPA and DHA and cardiovascular disease risk and early development.
Glycans in Immunologic Health and Disease
Authors: Zhou Julie Y. , Cobb Brian A.
Published: February 2021

The surfaces of all living organisms and most secreted proteins share a common feature: They are glycosylated. As the outermost-facing molecules, glycans participate in nearly all immunological processes, including driving host-pathogen interactions, immunological recognition and activation, and differentiation between self and nonself through a complex array of pathways and mechanisms. These fundamental immunologic roles are further cast into sharp relief in inflammatory, autoimmune, and cancer disease states in which immune regulation goes awry. Here, we review the broad impact of glycans on the immune system and discuss the changes and clinical opportunities associated with the onset of immunologic disease.
Woven Frames in Quaternionic Hilbert Spaces
Authors: Sharma S. K. , Sharma Nitin , Poumai Khole Timothy
Published: February 2021

In this paper, we introduce and study woven frames in quaternionic Hilbert spaces. We also give some properties of woven frames and give some conditions on family of frames under which it is woven in quaternionic Hilbert spaces. Also, a characterization of weaving frames in terms of a surjective-bounded right linear operator is given.
Hepatitis B Virus Reactivation with Discontinuation of Nucleoside Analogue in Patients Who Received Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Tsuruoka Mio , Inoue Jun , Onishi Yasushi , Ninomiya Masashi , Kakazu Eiji , Iwata Tomoaki , Sano Akitoshi , Sato Kosuke , Harigae Hideo , Masamune Atsushi
Published: February 2021

Reactivation of hepatitis B virus (HBV) is known to occur frequently after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). The reactivation can be prevented by nucleos(t)ide analogue (NA), but it is unclear how long NA should be continued. Here, we report 3 cases of HBV reactivation with discontinuation of NA following the discontinuation of immunosuppressive therapies after HSCT. Three male patients aged 34, 59, and 54 years received allogeneic HSCT (allo-HSCT) for chronic myeloid leukemia, mixed phenotype acute leukemia, and myelodysplastic syndrome, respectively. Before HSCT, 2 patients were positive for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and 1 patient was negative for HBsAg and positive for antibodies to hepatitis B core antigen. NA (lamivudine or entecavir) was started at the same time as HSCT and stopped after the discontinuation of immunosuppressive therapies. In all patients, the serum HBV DNA levels were increased after the discontinuation of NAs. Two of the three patients developed severe hepatitis with high levels of HBV DNA (7.5 and 7.4 log IU/mL, respectively). A patient without hepatitis was re-administered NA soon after the HBV DNA started to increase (3.3 log IU/mL). Interestingly, the 2 patients who developed hepatitis cleared HBsAg promptly after the recovery from hepatitis and they could stop NAs without the reversion of HBsAg. It was speculated that transplanted immune cells, which were naïve for HBV, react strongly with HBV antigens that were increased after the NA discontinuation. The discontinuation of NA after allo-HSCT is not recommended generally because strong hepatitis might be induced even after several years.