bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Cam-Clay model in the application of technological process modeling
Authors: Berdychowski M , Wilczyński D , Talaśka K , Wojtkowiak D
Published: April 2020

The article presents the preliminary results of numerical simulations of the densification process of shredded waste wood. The purpose of the simulation was to evaluate the possibility of using the Cam-Clay model in the field of modeling plastic deformation of shredded biomaterials. The results of simulation was compared with experimental research. The study employed a special stamp-cylinder assembly adapted for mounting on a strength machine. Sawdust was compacted with sufficient force to obtain the desired compressive stress in the sample cross-section. In the experiment, the mixture of oak and pine was used in proportions of 50 % of each material.
Modelling of wear out of timing belt’s pulley
Authors: Domek G , Kołodziej A , Wilczyński M
Published: April 2020

The paper deals with the problem of volumetric wear of timing pulleys. The authors analyze the course of this phenomenon depending on the properties of the belt-pulley friction pair. Timing belts are made of various materials, including additional coating layers, similarly to pulleys. The gear operation problem consists in modelling the pulley life for specific gear materials. The authors made also an attempt to investigate the rate of this phenomenon and its impact on the kinematic efficiency of the transmission gear with timing belts.
Static tests the stiffness of car tires
Authors: Dudziak M , Lewandowski A , Waluś K J
Published: April 2020

Safe driving requires from the driver a number of manual actions related to the existing traffic situation. The vehicle, reacting to the imposed extortions, is subjected to three-axle loads, which are transferred by friction-shaped coupling of the tire with the surface. The generated forces affect the tread and the side of the tire, the suspension of the vehicle and the steering. The article presents the results of bench tests of two types of tires: tires with special tread (coloured) made to order and popular tires available in retail sales. The tests were carried out under static conditions. The tests were carried out in cooperation with the Stomil Tire Research and Development Center in Poznan on the position enabling acquisition and archiving of the values of forces in the function of displacement (deformation of the tire). The obtained results made it possible to determine the directional stiffness of the radial, peripheral, lateral and torsional tires. It allowed to build the stiffness characteristics and compare the response to the forced testing tires. The results obtained form the basis for analysing the scope of vehicle traffic safety, and can also be used as input data in simulation tests.
Imaging and computer analysis in the shape error measurements and in the cylindrical objects stereometry
Authors: Zaborski A , Winczek J
Published: April 2020

In the work, the application of the imaging method and computer analysis of the results of cylindrical surface measurements are presented. Experimental studies focused on determining the measurement of shape, surface roughness and surface stereometry. The measurements were taken on Taylor-Hobson’s Talyrond 365 computerized stand. The selected parameters describing the profiles of cylindricity were analyzed in detail, which allowed to reflect the three-dimensional shape of the analyzed cylindrical surface and determine the shape errors. The results of the roughness measurements are shown in the form of a stereometric images developed cylinder surface. Computer analysis of the results allowed to isolate waviness and surface roughness. The results of the computer analysis were verified by stereometric measurements on the profilograph. Analysis of the achieved results confirmed shown satisfactory compatibility.
Dynamic modelling of elastic plates reinforced by strong fibres
Authors: Milosavljevic D I , Sapietova A , Zmindak M , Dekys V , Novak P
Published: April 2020

Here are considered composite materials reinforced which strong fibres, which have an important property that they are anisotropic, and in many cases this anisotropy may be very strong, in the sense that mechanical properties are strongly dependent on direction. Such materials are highly resistant to deformation by extension in the fibre direction compared to other deformation modes. Thus material has been modelled as a transversely isotropic for which the extensional modulus in the fibre direction is much greater than that in a direction perpendicular to the fibres. Material is modelled as coordinate free and such model is employed for examination of waves propagating in an infinite plate reinforced by strong fibres. Wave propagation in layer reinforced by one family of fibres with wave direction parallel with stress free boundaries, but otherwise with angle arbitrary to fibre direction, are examined here. The dispersion relations, in specific carbon fibres - epoxy resin composites, are examined. Expressions are also obtained for the variation of displacements and stresses through the thickness of the plate.
Using of wood ash as the alternative filler for preparation of rubber mixtures
Authors: Feriancová A , Pajtášová M , Moricová K , Pecušová B
Published: April 2020

Processing and material recovery of waste is an important aspect of environmental policy. Ash is waste in terms of legislation, but it is also a material that can be reused. Various works propose that biofuel ash could be used as inorganic fertilizer. The object of this work is based on using of wood ash (WA) from biomass and its modified form as the alternative filler in rubber mixtures. The WA samples with particle size of 25 and 40 µm were modified by silanization and properties of ash samples were characterized by elemental analysis (EDX), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Model rubber blends were prepared by using modified wood ash as a partial replacement of conventional filler. Furthermore, the influence of the addition of ash on the cure characteristics (minimum torque – ML
, maximum torque – MH
, optimal cure time – t90
, scorch time ts2
), mechanical properties (tensile strength at break – TSb
, elongation at break – Eb
and hardness) and physical properties (cross-link density) in sulfur-cured SBR composites were investigated. Dispersion of the WA filler and its incorporation into vulcanizates were based on observation of the fracture surfaces of vulcanizates by SEM. The results confirmed that the wood ash did not significantly affects the mechanical properties of the vulcanizates and can be used as a partial replacement of carbon black in SBR vulcanizates.
Research and application of PLA fibres
Authors: Kleščík M , Bizubová B , Zatroch T , Balogová A , Pedraza L A R , Skalková P , Krmelová V , Krmela J , Muks E , der Scheuren L V
Published: April 2020

This work is focused on characterization of spinning process of PLA fibres. PLA polymer with high melting point was modified by two hydrolytic additives in amounts (0 and 1 wt. %). Fully drawn (FDY) PLA fibres were prepared by melt spinning technique in the company Chemosvit Fibrochem a. s. (Svit, Slovakia). Preparation of PLA fibres was done by two different processes of continuous and discontinuous type. Different drawing ratios, take-up speeds and spin finishes for optimal fibre properties were used. Physical and mechanical properties of prepared FDY fibres, such as elongation and tenacity were measured. Prepared PLA fibres with different hydrolytic additives were process able in manufacturing process and this material could be used for various textile and composite applications.
Study of structural changes in thermoplastics using dynamic mechanical analysis
Authors: Kohutiar M , Janík R , Pajtášová M , Ondrušová D , Labaj I , Zvoláneková Mezencevová V
Published: April 2020

Diffuse coplanar surface barrier discharge (DCSBD) is an innovative plasma source that finds application in industrial practice and also in the surface treatment of various types of materials. The presented paper deals with the investigation of structural changes in selected thermoplastic materials that have occurred after their treatment with plasma discharge. The structural changes were investigated by using dynamic mechanical analysis, where the changes between the unmodified material samples and the thermoplastic material samples exposed to the plasma discharge, were compared, based on the obtained data of the storage modulus, the loss modulus and the loss tangent. For the experiment, thermoplastic materials were chosen, which are widely represented in the production of packaging materials, namely polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET).
Study of microstructure of selected dental restoration parts
Authors: Koštialiková D , Janeková M , Dubec A , Kováčiková P , Pešlová F
Published: April 2020

The given paper as well as the whole complex of problems is closely connected with the investigation of the selected materials which are used for dental implants manufacture. The investigated implants had to be removed prematurely from the patient’s mouth cavity due to the occurrence of critical states (CS) in relation to the manufacturing material. These critical states of the material led to the malfunction and unacceptability of the dental implants from the aspect of the health condition and the hypersensitivity of the patient to degraded implant material. This work is mainly based on the combination of the theoretical as well as practical knowledge along with predetermination and specification of the needed testing procedures for materials which are commonly used for dental implants. Samples were prepared from the cut sections of the implants in a metallographic (ceramographic) way and subsequently, they were investigated in the terms of their structural properties. The main aim of this paper was to present the microscopic evaluation of the materials for implants and to analyse the undesirable defects that led to their destruction.
The effect of various alternative filler granularity on the properties of elastomeric vulcanizate
Authors: Labaj I , Ondrušová D , Vršková J , Kohutiar M
Published: April 2020

This work deals with the influence of different alternative filler granularities or fractions (size) on properties of real elastomeric blend. Alternatively, the filler was subjected to a sieve analysis to obtain individual fractions of filler as well as to determine the ratio of individual fractions in a determined amount of alternative filler. The main objective was to evaluate the effect of the granularities on the basic properties of the elastomeric blend. Prepared elastomeric blends were studied in terms of their properties and vulcanization characteristics. The resulting vulcanizates were tested from the aspect of hardness and rebound resilience. In the case of commercially available fillers (e.g. carbon black), the granularity is a significant parameter affecting the properties of the elastomeric blends. From the results of tests for the prepared materials, it is possible to determine the most suitable granularity of the alternative filler for the preparation of elastomeric materials. In relation to given suitable granularity, the application of the basic alternative filler is not suitable to achieve better quality parameters. The results show a significant granularity effect of the alternative filler on the properties (hardness, rebound resilience, rheological, vulcanization characteristics) of the elastomeric vulcanizate.
Determination of engine oil characteristics
Authors: Moricová K , Papučová I , Ďurišová S , Janík R
Published: April 2020

The given introduced paper deals with determination of contamination, content of elements, change of composition and stability against the oxidation of motor oils. This work is aimed at chaining the individual properties of engine oil in dependence on the use of oil in traffic. Results show, that properties of engine oils do not depend only on the time of use but they also depend on other factors, such as state of the vehicle, the way of driving the vehicle, and the condition of maitenance.
Evaluation of thermal insulation properties and dynamic moisture transfer of knitted fabrics
Authors: Legerská J , Ondrušová D , Krmela J
Published: April 2020

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the thermo-physiological comfort of weft knitted fabrics and to investigate applied methods of heat and water transfer. The examined weft knitted fabrics had a different structure as well as a material composition. They were made for wearing in moderate alternatively hot climate conditions such as in Europe. Selected properties were measured on the C-Therm Tci and Moisture Management Tester (MMT) devices. We concluded that the weft knitted fabrics made of polyester, of greater thickness and specific density are comfortable in hot and moderate climate conditions. The most suitable alternative is to combine structures and materials in the manufacturing process of knitted products.
Effect of alternative filler from glass industry on the selected properties of friction polymer matrix in automotive industry
Authors: Vršková J , Ondrušová D , Labaj I , Kopal I
Published: April 2020

This paper is focused on the preparation of polymer blends with addition of alternative filler from glass industry in various granularity (>40 µm, 40–32 µm, 32–25 µm, 25–0 µm). The polymer matrix (PMX3) consists of melamine resin, phenolic resin and nitrile rubber. This polymer matrix composition is commonly applied in friction composite systems in automotive industry. The surface activity of various filler fractions was studied. The rheological properties, such as minimum torque, maximum torque, optimum vulcanization time and scorch time of prepared friction polymer matrix were tested, using the PRPA 2000 rheometer. Mooney viscosity of new prepared polymer matrix was studied with help of Mooney Viscosimetr 91.03 Gottert testing machine.
An application of the Kalman filter in automated guided vehicles
Authors: Dobrzanska M , Dobrzanski P
Published: April 2020

The article presents an example of using the Kalman filter in the navigation process of an automated guided vehicles (AGV). Odometry – computational navigation is the basis for determining the location of automated guided vehicles. Many errors affect this method of determining the vehicle’s position. In order to eliminate these errors in modern vehicles, additional systems are used to increase the accuracy of determining the position of the vehicle. In the latest navigation systems, probabilistic methods are applied to adjust the route and the position. The Kalman filters are most commonly used.
Digital filtration methods in selected industrial applications
Authors: Dobrzanski P , Dobrzanska M
Published: April 2020

The aim of the article is to present selected methods of digital filtration and their algorithms used in industry. The article presents some examples of the use of digital filtration methods in two areas. The first area of an application of filtration covered the issue related to production technology and surface topography. The second area describes examples of the use of filtration in the navigation of automated guided vehicles (AGV) serving production lines. In the research part, selected methods of digital filtration were tested and their effectiveness was determined.
Nanostars—decorated microfluidic sensors for surface enhanced Raman scattering targeting of biomolecules
Authors: Dallari Caterina , Credi Caterina , Lenci Elena , Trabocchi Andrea , Cicchi Riccardo , Pavone Francesco Saverio
Published: April 2020

Novel localised surface plasmon resonance-based sensors exploitable as diagnostic devices through surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) represent a powerful solution for the analysis of liquid samples. In this work, we developed a rapid, versatile, low-cost and time-saving strategy combining advanced (3D-printing) and traditional manufacturing (replica molding) processes to prototype polymeric microfluidic devices, integrating all the components into a single portable platform. Microfluidics provide multiplexed capability, adequate miniaturization and robustness, handling simplicity, reliability, as well as low sample and reagents consumption, while the use of polydimethylsiloxane as supporting substrate drastically reduces the final cost. To introduce SERS capability, plasmonic features were incorporated functionalizing substrates with gold nanoparticles (NPs), engineered in terms of shape, size and surface chemistry to play with plasmonic properties as well as to guarantee reproducibility to the NPs immobilization step and consequently to the SERS effect for signal enhancing. To assess the feasibility of the measurements for molecules optical targeting, SERS-microfluidic systems were synergically coupled with a portable fiber-based set-up and Raman spectra of rhodamine 6 G at different concentrations were acquired. To further demonstrate the potentiality of developed SERS-based substrates as point-of-care devices, Raman analysis were successfully implemented on aqueous solutions of amyloid-β 1–42 (Aβ), considered the main biomarkers for Alzheimer’s disease.
Synthesis of reduced graphene oxide based on thermally modified liquid-phase exfoliation
Authors: Pratama Buky Wahyu , Dwandaru Wipsar Sunu Brams
Published: April 2020

We report a modification of the liquid-phase exfoliation (LPE) method in order to produce reduced graphene oxide (rGO) material by varying the heating temperature. The rGO was obtained by dissolving graphite powder into a surfactant solution and then heated by varying the heating temperature. There is an intercalation process on the graphene layers as the heating temperature was increased. The rGO material were tested using UV–vis, FTIR, Raman spectroscopies, and conductivity measurement based on Ohm principles.
Older patients undergoing emergency laparotomy: observations from the National Emergency Laparotomy Audit (NELA) years 1–4
Authors: Aitken Rachel M , Partridge Judith S L , Oliver Charles Matthew , Murray Dave , Hare Sarah , Lockwood Sonia , Beckley-Hoelscher Nick , Dhesi Jugdeep K
Published: April 2020

Background

older patients aged ≥65 years constitute the majority of the National Emergency Laparotomy Audit (NELA) population. To better understand this group and inform future service changes, this paper aims to describe patient characteristics, outcomes and process measures across age cohorts and temporally in the 4-year period (2014–2017) since NELA was established.

Methods

patient-level data were populated from the NELA data set years 1–4 and linked with Office of National Statistics mortality data. Descriptive data were compared between groups delineated by age, NELA year and geriatrician review. Primary outcomes were 30- and 90-day mortality, length of stay (LOS) and discharge to care-home accommodation.

Results

in total, 93,415 NELA patients were included in the analysis. The median age was 67 years. Patients aged ≥65 years had higher 30-day (15.3 versus 4.9%, P < 0.001) and 90-day mortality (20.4 versus 7.2%, P < 0.001) rates, longer LOS (median 15.2 versus 11.3 days, P < 0.001) and greater likelihood of discharge to care-home accommodation compared with younger patients (6.7 versus 1.9%, P < 0.001). Mortality rate reduction over time was greater in older compared with younger patients. The proportion of older NELA patients seen by a geriatrician post-operatively increased over years 1–4 (8.5 to 16.5%, P < 0.001). Post-operative geriatrician review was associated with reduced mortality (30-day odds ratio [OR] 0.38, confidence interval [CI] 0.35–0.42, P < 0.001; 90-day OR 0.6, CI 0.56–0.65, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

older NELA patients have poorer post-operative outcomes. The greatest reduction in mortality rates over time were observed in the oldest cohorts. This may be due to several interventions including increased perioperative geriatrician input.
Feasibility and acceptability of the ‘Acutely Presenting Older Patient’ screener in routine emergency department care
Authors: Blomaard Laura C , Mooijaart Simon P , Bolt Shanti , Lucke Jacinta A , de Gelder Jelle , Booijen Anja M , Gussekloo Jacobijn , de Groot Bas
Published: April 2020

Background

risk stratification tools for older patients in the emergency department (ED) have rarely been implemented successfully in routine care.

Objective

to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of the ‘Acutely Presenting Older Patient’ (APOP) screener, which identifies older ED patients at the highest risk of adverse outcomes within 2 minutes at presentation.

Design and setting

2-month prospective cohort study, after the implementation of the APOP screener in ED routine care in the Leiden University Medical Center.

Subjects

all consecutive ED patients aged ≥70 years.

Methods

feasibility of screening was assessed by measuring the screening rate and by identifying patient- and organisation-related determinants of screening completion. Acceptability was assessed by collecting experienced barriers of screening completion from triage-nurses.

Results

we included 953 patients with a median age of 77 (IQR 72–82) years, of which 560 (59%) patients were screened. Patients had a higher probability of being screened when they had a higher age (OR 1.03 (95%CI 1.01–1.06), P = 0.017). Patients had a lower probability of being screened when they were triaged very urgent (OR 0.55 (0.39–0.78), P = 0.001) or when the number of patients upon arrival was high (OR 0.63 (0.47–0.86), P = 0.003). Experienced barriers of screening completion were patient-related (‘patient was too sick’), organisation-related (‘ED was too busy’) and personnel-related (‘forgot to complete screening’).

Conclusion

with more than half of all older patients screened, feasibility and acceptability of screening in routine ED care is very promising. To further improve screening completion, solutions are needed for patients who present with high urgency and during ED rush hours.
Mechanistically derived patient-level framework for precision medicine identifies a personalized immune prognostic signature in high-grade serous ovarian cancer
Authors: Zhao Hengqiang , Gu Shanshan , Bao Siqi , Yan Congcong , Zhang Zicheng , Hou Ping , Zhou Meng , Sun Jie
Published: April 2020

An accurate prognosis assessment for cancer patients could aid in guiding clinical decision-making. Reliance on traditional clinical features alone in a complex clinical environment is challenging and unsatisfactory in the era of precision medicine; thus, reliable prognostic biomarkers are urgently required to improve a patient staging system. In this study, we proposed a patient-level computational framework from mechanistic and translational perspectives to establish a personalized prognostic signature (named PLPPS) in high-grade serous ovarian carcinoma (HGSOC). The PLPPS composed of 68 immune genes achieved accurate prognostic risk stratification for 1190 patients in the meta-training cohort and was rigorously validated in multiple cross-platform independent cohorts comprising 792 HGSOC patients. Furthermore, the PLPPS was shown to be the better prognostic factor compared with clinical parameters in the univariate analysis and retained a significant independent association with prognosis after adjusting for clinical parameters in the multivariate analysis. In benchmark comparisons, the performance of PLPPS (hazard ratio (HR), 1.371; concordance index (C-index), 0.604 and area under the curve (AUC), 0.637) is comparable to or better than other published gene signatures (HR, 0.972 to 1.340; C-index, 0.495 to 0.592 and AUC, 0.48–0.624). With further validation in prospective clinical trials, we hope that the PLPPS might become a promising genomic tool to guide personalized management and decision-making of HGSOC in clinical practice.
A Real-world Evaluation of a Case-based Reasoning Algorithm to Support Antimicrobial Prescribing Decisions in Acute Care
Authors: Rawson Timothy M , Hernandez Bernard , Moore Luke S P , Herrero Pau , Charani Esmita , Ming Damien , Wilson Richard C , Blandy Oliver , Sriskandan Shiranee , Gilchrist Mark , Toumazou Christofer , Georgiou Pantelis , Holmes Alison H
Published: April 2020

Background

A locally developed case-based reasoning (CBR) algorithm, designed to augment antimicrobial prescribing in secondary care was evaluated.

Methods

Prescribing recommendations made by a CBR algorithm were compared to decisions made by physicians in clinical practice. Comparisons were examined in 2 patient populations: first, in patients with confirmed Escherichia coli blood stream infections (“E. coli patients”), and second in ward-based patients presenting with a range of potential infections (“ward patients”). Prescribing recommendations were compared against the Antimicrobial Spectrum Index (ASI) and the World Health Organization Essential Medicine List Access, Watch, Reserve (AWaRe) classification system. Appropriateness of a prescription was defined as the spectrum of the prescription covering the known or most-likely organism antimicrobial sensitivity profile.

Results

In total, 224 patients (145 E. coli patients and 79 ward patients) were included. Mean (standard deviation) age was 66 (18) years with 108/224 (48%) female sex. The CBR recommendations were appropriate in 202/224 (90%) compared to 186/224 (83%) in practice (odds ratio [OR]: 1.24 95% confidence interval [CI]: .392–3.936; P = .71). CBR recommendations had a smaller ASI compared to practice with a median (range) of 6 (0–13) compared to 8 (0–12) (P < .01). CBR recommendations were more likely to be classified as Access class antimicrobials compared to physicians’ prescriptions at 110/224 (49%) vs. 79/224 (35%) (OR: 1.77; 95% CI: 1.212–2.588; P < .01). Results were similar for E. coli and ward patients on subgroup analysis.

Conclusions

A CBR-driven decision support system provided appropriate recommendations within a narrower spectrum compared to current clinical practice. Future work must investigate the impact of this intervention on prescribing behaviors more broadly and patient outcomes.
Understanding Patient-Based Real-Time Quality Control Using Simulation Modeling
Authors: Bietenbeck Andreas , Cervinski Mark A , Katayev Alex , Loh Tze Ping , van Rossum Huub H , Badrick Tony
Published: April 2020

Background

Patient-based real-time quality control (PBRTQC) avoids limitations of traditional quality control methods based on the measurement of stabilized control samples. However, PBRTQC needs to be adapted to the individual laboratories with parameters such as algorithm, truncation, block size, and control limit.

Methods

In a computer simulation, biases were added to real patient results of 10 analytes with diverse properties. Different PBRTQC methods were assessed on their ability to detect these biases early.

Results

The simulation based on 460 000 historical patient measurements for each analyte revealed several recommendations for PBRTQC. Control limit calculation with “percentiles of daily extremes” led to effective limits and allowed specification of the percentage of days with false alarms. However, changes in measurement distribution easily increased false alarms. Box–Cox but not logarithmic transformation improved error detection. Winsorization of outlying values often led to a better performance than simple outlier removal. For medians and Harrell–Davis 50 percentile estimators (HD50s), no truncation was necessary. Block size influenced medians substantially and HD50s to a lesser extent. Conversely, a change of truncation limits affected means and exponentially moving averages more than a change of block sizes. A large spread of patient measurements impeded error detection. PBRTQC methods were not always able to detect an allowable bias within the simulated 1000 erroneous measurements. A web application was developed to estimate PBRTQC performance.

Conclusions

Computer simulations can optimize PBRTQC but some parameters are generally superior and can be taken as default.
Functional and Taxonomic Beta Diversity of Saproxylic Beetles in Mediterranean Forests: On What Factors Do They Depend?
Authors: Pérez-Sánchez D , Galante E , Micó E
Published: April 2020

Understanding how biodiversity is distributed across geographical and environmental gradients is a main goal of diversity sciences. However, since ecosystem processes are linked to variation in functional traits of the biota, examining functional beta diversity is particularly important. Our objective was to analyze the taxonomic and functional beta diversity patterns of saproxylic beetle assemblages in evergreen Quercus forest of Spain. We tested whether environmental or geographical distance had a greater influence on taxonomic and functional beta diversity, and if both measures of beta diversity were affected by the same environmental variables. We used 45 flight interception traps distributed in three protected areas over a 12-mo period to sample saproxylic beetles. We measured 13 environmental variables around each trap and the geographical distance between traps. For functional composition, we used 12 functional traits from four functional groups (morphological, phenological, trophic, and a surrogate of physiological). Our results showed that environmental differences between areas influenced the taxonomic and functional beta diversity components (replacement and loss/gain) but in different ways. While replacement components (higher for taxonomic composition) increased with environmental distance, the loss or gain components (higher for functional composition) remained constant, indicating that species replacement mostly involved functionally redundant species. Besides, environmental variables influencing both taxonomic and functional composition were strongly dependent on each area. In conclusion, in well-preserved Mediterranean forests, environmental filtering determines the taxonomic and functional composition of saproxylic beetle assemblages, by favoring species replacement but filtering species traits.
Feeding, Survival, and Fecundity of Adult Emerald Ash Borer (Coleoptera: Buprestidae) on Foliage of Two Novel Hosts and Implications for Host Range Expansion
Authors: Peterson Donnie L , Slager Ben , Anulewicz Andrea C , Cipollini Don
Published: April 2020

Insect herbivores are more likely to successfully use a novel host if the plant is closely related to the ancestral host and the insect is polyphagous. Emerald ash borer (EAB), Agrilus planipennis (Fairmaire) (Coleoptera: Buprestidae), is a specialist wood borer of ash (Fraxinus spp., Lamiales: Oleaceae) trees and one of the most destructive forest pests in North American forests. Recent studies have found that larvae can develop in stems of two ash relatives; white fringetree (Chionanthus virginicus (L.) [Laminales: Oleaceae]) and cultivated olive (Olea europaea (L.) [Laminales: Oleaceae]). For EAB adults, the ability to consume, successfully mate, and lay viable eggs on foliage of these hosts is unknown. Thus, we conducted two no-choice assays with adult EAB on foliage of white fringetree and olive paired with positive controls of susceptible ash. Larval performance was also examined in a reciprocal study with cut stems of white fringetree and green ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica Marshall) to determine whether adult diet impacted the success of progeny. Longevity, consumption rates, and fecundity of adults were similar on white fringetree and ash foliage. In contrast, adults consuming olive died quickly, consumed more over time, and females laid far fewer eggs compared to those on ash. Adult diet did not impact larval success, but larvae in white fringetree stems grew slower. These results indicate that white fringetree is a suitable host for EAB to complete its lifecycle, although larvae perform more poorly on this host than in susceptible ash species. In contrast, the more distantly related olive appears to be a poor host for adult EAB, although some viable eggs were produced by females.
Satellite cell capacity for functional adaptation of masseter muscle in Class II and Class III patients after orthognathic surgery—a pilot study
Authors: Harzer Winfried , Augstein Antje , Olbert Christin , Juenger Diana , Keil Christiane , Weiland Bernhard
Published: April 2020

Aim

The aim of the prospective pilot study was to analyze the biomarkers CD34, Pax7, Myf5, and MyoD for stimulation of satellite cells (SCs), which are responsible for functional adaptation.

Subjects and Methods

Forty-five Caucasian patients were consecutively recruited from the Maxillo-Facial-Surgery at TU Dresden. Eleven orthognathic Class III patients, 24 Class II patients, and 10 controls with Class I were involved in the study. Tissue samples from masseter muscle were taken from the patients pre-surgically (T1) and 7 months later (T2). Samples from controls were taken during the extraction of third molars in the mandible. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for relative quantification of gene expression was calculated with the delta delta cycle threshold (ΔΔCT) method.

Results

The results show significant differences for the marker of SC stimulation between the controls, the patient groups, males, and females. The gene expression of CD34 was post-surgically upregulated for Class III (0.35–0.77, standard deviation [SD] = 0.39, P < 0.05) in comparison with controls. For Pax7, there was a significant difference shown between the retrognathic and the prognathic group because of downregulation in Class II patients (1.64–0.76, SD = 0.55, P < 0.05). In Class III patients, there was a significant upregulation for Myf5 (0.56–1.05, SD = 0.52, P < 0.05) after surgery too.

Conclusions

The significant decline of Pax7 in Class II patients indicates a deficiency of stimulated SC post-surgically. The expression of CD34 and Myf5 in Class II stayed unchanged. In contrast, there was an upregulation for all Class III patients, mainly in females, shown post-surgically. This may be one reason for weak functional adaptation and relapse in Class II patients.
The roles of environmental variation and spatial distance in explaining diversity and biogeography of soil denitrifying communities in remote Tibetan wetlands
Authors: Jiang Xiaoliang , Liu Wenzhi , Yao Lunguang , Liu Guihua , Yang Yuyi
Published: April 2020

The relative importance of local environments and dispersal limitation in shaping denitrifier community structure remains elusive. Here, we collected soils from 36 riverine, lacustrine and palustrine wetland sites on the remote Tibetan Plateau and characterized the soil denitrifier communities using high-throughput amplicon sequencing of the nirS and nirK genes. Results showed that the richness of nirS-type denitrifiers in riverine wetlands was significantly higher than that in lacustrine wetlands but not significantly different from that in palustrine wetlands. There was no clear distinction in nir community composition among the three kinds of wetlands. Irrespective of wetland type, the soil denitrification rate was positively related to the abundance, but not the α-diversity, of denitrifying communities. Soil moisture, carbon availability and soil temperature were the main determinants of diversity [operational taxonomic unit (OTU) number] and abundance of thenirS-type denitrifier community, while water total organic carbon, soil NO3– and soil moisture were important in controlling nirK-type denitrifier diversity and abundance. The nirS community composition was influenced by water electrical conductivity, soil temperature and water depth, while the nirK community composition was affected by soil electrical conductivity. Spatial distance explained more variation in the nirS community composition than in the nirK community composition. Our findings highlight the importance of both environmental filtering and spatial distance in explaining diversity and biogeography of soil nir communities in remote and relatively undisturbed wetlands.
Vertebrate Lineages Exhibit Diverse Patterns of Transposable Element Regulation and Expression across Tissues
Authors: Pasquesi Giulia I M , Perry Blair W , Vandewege Mike W , Ruggiero Robert P , Schield Drew R , Castoe Todd A
Published: April 2020

Transposable elements (TEs) comprise a major fraction of vertebrate genomes, yet little is known about their expression and regulation across tissues, and how this varies across major vertebrate lineages. We present the first comparative analysis integrating TE expression and TE regulatory pathway activity in somatic and gametic tissues for a diverse set of 12 vertebrates. We conduct simultaneous gene and TE expression analyses to characterize patterns of TE expression and TE regulation across vertebrates and examine relationships between these features. We find remarkable variation in the expression of genes involved in TE negative regulation across tissues and species, yet consistently high expression in germline tissues, particularly in testes. Most vertebrates show comparably high levels of TE regulatory pathway activity across gonadal tissues except for mammals, where reduced activity of TE regulatory pathways in ovarian tissues may be the result of lower relative germ cell densities. We also find that all vertebrate lineages examined exhibit remarkably high levels of TE-derived transcripts in somatic and gametic tissues, with recently active TE families showing higher expression in gametic tissues. Although most TE-derived transcripts originate from inactive ancient TE families (and are likely incapable of transposition), such high levels of TE-derived RNA in the cytoplasm may have secondary, unappreciated biological relevance.
Fine-Scale Population Structure but Limited Genetic Differentiation in a Cooperatively Breeding Paper Wasp
Authors: Bluher Sarah E , Miller Sara E , Sheehan Michael J
Published: April 2020

Relatively little is known about the processes shaping population structure in cooperatively breeding insect species, despite the long-hypothesized importance of population structure in shaping patterns of cooperative breeding. Polistes paper wasps are primitively eusocial insects, with a cooperative breeding system in which females often found nests in cooperative associations. Prior mark-recapture studies of Polistes have documented extreme female philopatry, although genetic studies frequently fail to detect the strong population structure expected for highly philopatric species. Together these findings have led to lack of consensus on the degree of dispersal and population structure in these species. This study assessed population structure of female Polistes fuscatus wasps at three scales: within a single site, throughout Central New York, and across the Northeastern United States. Patterns of spatial genetic clustering and isolation by distance were observed in nuclear and mitochondrial genomes at the continental scale. Remarkably, population structure was evident even at fine spatial scales within a single collection site. However, P. fuscatus had low levels of genetic differentiation across long distances. These results suggest that P. fuscatus wasps may employ multiple dispersal strategies, including extreme natal philopatry as well as longer-distance dispersal. We observed greater genetic differentiation in mitochondrial genes than in the nuclear genome, indicative of increased dispersal distances in males. Our findings support the hypothesis that limited female dispersal contributes toward population structure in paper wasps.
Effects of Psychosocial Interventions and Caregiving Stress on Cardiovascular Biomarkers in Family Dementia Caregivers: The UCSD Pleasant Events Program (PEP) Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: von Känel Roland , Mills Paul J , Dimsdale Joel E , Ziegler Michael G , Allison Matthew A , Patterson Thomas L , Ancoli-Israel Sonia , Pruitt Christopher , Grant Igor , Mausbach Brent T
Published: April 2020

Background

This study examined whether biological mechanisms linking dementia caregiving with an increased risk of coronary heart disease can be modified by psychosocial interventions and which caregivers might benefit the most from an intervention.

Methods

Spousal dementia caregivers were randomized to 12-week treatment with either a behavioral activation intervention (ie, Pleasant Events Program [PEP]; n = 60), or an active control Information and Support (IS; n = 63) condition. Indicators of caregiving stress were assessed pretreatment and circulating cardiovascular biomarkers were measured pre- and posttreatment.

Results

There were no significant changes in biomarker levels from pre- to posttreatment both by treatment condition and across all caregivers. Regardless of the treatment condition, exploratory regression analysis revealed that caregivers were more likely to show significant decreases in C-reactive protein (CRP) and D-dimer when their spouse had severe functional impairment; in interleukin (IL)-6 and CRP when they had greater distress due to care recipient’s problem behaviors; in tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α when they had higher levels of negative affect; and in IL-6, CRP, TNF-α, and D-dimer when they had higher personal mastery. Within the PEP group, caregivers with higher negative affect and those with higher positive affect were more likely to show a reduction in von Willebrand factor and D-dimer, respectively. Within the IS group, caregivers whose spouse had severe functional impairment were more likely to show a decrease in IL-6.

Conclusions

Unlike the average caregiver, caregivers high in burden/distress and resources might benefit from psychosocial interventions to improve cardiovascular risk, although these observations need confirmation.
Systematic Review of Exercise for Caregiver–Care Recipient Dyads: What Is Best for Spousal Caregivers—Exercising Together or Not at All?
Authors: Doyle Kecia L , Toepfer Max , Bradfield Abigail F , Noffke Alicia , Ausderau Karla K , Andreae Susan , Pickett Kristen A
Published: April 2020

Background and Objectives

Though exercise for care recipients receives considerable emphasis, few dyadic studies focus on caregivers. This systematic review identified dyadic exercise interventions, which measured outcomes for older adult caregivers. Studies that met inclusion criteria were examined to better understand whether caregivers derived greater benefit from exercising with care recipients, or not exercising at all.

Research Design and Methods

PRISMA guidelines were followed to identify quantitative studies of dyadic exercise interventions in which caregivers enrolled with care recipients, and either coparticipated in exercise; or while their care recipients exercised independently, caregivers received a separate, nonexercise intervention or usual care (UC). To be included, studies had to measure physical or psychosocial outcomes for caregivers. Study quality was assessed via the Downs and Black checklist.

Results

Eleven studies met inclusion criteria. In six, the dyad exercised; in five, care recipients exercised while caregivers received a separate program, or UC. Results suggest that caregivers may improve both psychosocial and physical health when exercising together with care recipients. Caregivers who did not exercise but received a separate, nonexercise intervention, such as support, education, or respite, showed psychosocial benefits. Those who received UC were less likely to derive physical or psychosocial benefits. Included studies were fair to good quality with moderate to high risk of bias.

Discussion and Implications

Often examined secondarily, caregivers are overlooked for participation in interventions with care recipients. This analysis suggests that caregivers may benefit from dyadic interventions in which they either exercise together with their care recipients or receive a separate nonexercise intervention or respite.
6. Pre-contract searches and enquiries
Authors: Abbey Robert , Richards Mark
Published: April 2020

This chapter examines pre-contract searches and enquiries. Searches are requests for information about the subject property made by conveyancers that are sent to various agencies that hold that information, like local authorities. Enquiries are questions about the subject property that are sent to a seller to answer. These are interesting and important subjects within the conveyancing process and cover a lot of points that can be of considerable consequence to a buyer.
7. Town and country planning
Authors: Abbey Robert , Richards Mark
Published: April 2020

Town and country planning legislation aims to control the development of land and buildings. Section 57(1) of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 stipulates that ‘planning permission is required for the carrying out of any development of land’. This chapter first discusses the two main elements of town and country planning: (1) obtaining planning permission for new developments; and (2) the change of use of existing properties. It then explains breaches of planning control and enforcement; building regulations; and typical planning enquiries. A town and country planning decision tree is also presented.
14. Post-completion procedures
Authors: Abbey Robert , Richards Mark
Published: April 2020

Conveyancing practitioners, whether they are acting for the seller or the buyer, still have much to do once completion has taken place. However, the buyer’s solicitor will have more work to do, as in most transactions acting on behalf of the buyer means after completion dealing with the possible payment of stamp duty land tax and then registration of the title and/or transfer. So far as the seller is concerned, if there is a mortgage, paying off any lender is required, as well as accounting to the client for the net proceeds of sale. This chapter considers all these post-completion procedures.
18. Commercial conveyancing
Authors: Abbey Robert , Richards Mark
Published: April 2020

Commercial conveyancing services support the market in and for commercial property. This chapter focuses on several different topics that relate to commercial property and involve specialist knowledge of commercial conveyancing. These include commercial leases; buying and selling commercial freeholds; and commercial property and some elements of revenue law.
2. An Introduction to the Law of Criminal Evidence and Advocacy
Authors: Hannibal Martin , Mountford Lisa
Published: April 2020

Both prosecutors and defence lawyers must have a good understanding of the rules of criminal evidence and be able to apply the rules in a highly practical way to the issues in a case. This chapter provides a brief introduction to the main evidential rules which are considered further in later chapters. In particular, it addresses the following: the purpose of rules of evidence; the core concepts of relevance, admissibility, and weight; and the different types of evidence.
5. The Right to Silence at the Police Station
Authors: Hannibal Martin , Mountford Lisa
Published: April 2020

This chapter explains the substantive law governing a defendant’s silence at the police station under ss. 34, 36, and 37 Criminal Justice and Public Order Act (CJPOA) 1994. It covers the risks associated with s. 34 CJPOA 1994; drawing inferences from a failure to account under ss. 36 and 37 CJPOA 1994; and the practical aspects associated with remaining silent.
6. Challenging Unlawfully and Unfairly Obtained Evidence
Authors: Hannibal Martin , Mountford Lisa
Published: April 2020

This chapter examines the court’s powers to exclude unlawfully or unfairly obtained prosecution evidence by examining the position in relation to confession evidence excluded under ss. 76 and 78 Police and Criminal Evidence Act (PACE) 1984; and other prosecution evidence excluded at common law, under s. 78 PACE 1984, and as an abuse of process.
9. Funding of Criminal Defence Services and First Appearance Process
Authors: Hannibal Martin , Mountford Lisa
Published: April 2020

This chapter considers the public funding of criminal proceedings and the early stages of the criminal litigation process. Topics discussed include legal aid as a human right; pre-charge advice and assistance; funded representation in court; representation orders; the interests of justice test; means testing and its application to cases tried in the magistrates’ court; the means test as applied to cases triable on indictment; work that can be done under a representation order; acquitted defendants and Defendants’ Costs Order; the future of public funding; and preparing for the first appearance before the magistrates’ court.