bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis of polyamide‐hydroxyapatite nanocomposites
Authors: Okumura Tomoyo , Sonobe Kenya , Ohashi Asami , Watanabe Harumi , Watanabe Katsushi , Oyamada Hiroshi , Aramaki Masaaki , Ougizawa Toshiaki
Published: June 2020

Simultaneous one‐pot syntheses of PA66 and HAp were carried out by extracting H2O and CO2 from PA66 monomers and HAp raw materials, respectively, resulting in the formation of a polyamide (PA) 66‐hydroxyapatite (HAp) nanocomposite. During the process, a spherical nano‐sized HAp particle was precipitated following dissolution of micro‐sized CaHPO4・2H2O. The PA66 monomers were subsequently adsorbed onto the generated HAp product. Some of the adsorbed PA66 monomers formed a bound polymer on HAp, and an increase in the adhesiveness of the PA66‐HAp interface was observed as the polymerization progressed. During this process, the synthesis of a nanocomposite from a micro‐sized raw material and creation of an autonomous strong interface between the matrix and filler was achieved. In addition, the shape of the resultant HAp was controllable and could be modified to needle shape by the addition of F− and Mg2+ ions to the raw material. HAp could also be changed to plate shape via octa‐calcium phosphate (OCP). Notably, during the synthesis, the filler shape of the nanocomposite could be controlled to 0D (particle), 1D (needle), and 2D (plate).
Exergaming for Quality of Life in Persons Living with Chronic Diseases: A Systematic Review and Meta‐analysis
Authors: Cugusi Lucia , Prosperini Luca , Mura Gioia
Published: June 2020

Objective

To evaluate the evidence of effectiveness of exergame‐based rehabilitative interventions on health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) in persons with chronic diseases.

Type

Systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Literature survey

Randomized and nonrandomized controlled trials of exergame rehabilitation interventions in populations with chronic diseases reporting HRQoL outcomes were identified by searching PubMed, Scopus, Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro), Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and Google Scholar, using keywords and MeSH terms for papers published between January 2005 and March 2019.

Methodology

Risk of bias was assessed by using the PEDro scale. The Grading of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) system was used to score the quality of evidence. Pooled effects were reported as standardized mean differences (SMDs) or weighted mean difference (MDs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs), using a random‐effects model. Heterogeneity was weighted by inconsistency I2 tests.

Synthesis

Thirty‐four trials were identified (1594 participants). Overall, the evidence was low quality. Exergames significantly improved HRQoL in populations with chronic diseases, with a small effect size (32 studies; 1544 participants; SMD 0.24; 95% CI 0.1 to 0.4; I2 = 27%) and specifically in people with neurological disorders (20 studies, 956 participants, SMD 0.22; 95% CI 0.2 to 0.4; I2 = 49%), rheumatologic diseases (four studies, 210 participants, SMD 0.39; 95% CI 0.1 to 0.7; I2 = 4%), and cardiorespiratory and chronic metabolic conditions (five studies, 309 participants, SMD 0.23; 95% CI 0.0 to 0.5; I2 = 0%). Exergaming interventions in health care settings demonstrated similarly small but positive effects (22 studies, 905 participants, SMD 0.30; 95% CI 0.1 to 0.5; I2 = 41%), whereas those carried out in home‐based contexts did not.

Conclusions

Exergame‐based rehabilitative interventions performed in health care settings led to small but statistically significant improvements in HRQoL in persons with chronic diseases.
Technical validity and usability of a novel smartphone‐connected spirometry device for pediatric patients with asthma and cystic fibrosis
Authors: Kruizinga Matthijs D. , Essers Esmée , Stuurman F. E. , Zhuparris Ahnjili , van Eik Nellie , Janssens Hettie M. , Groothuis Iris , Sprij Arwen J. , Nuijsink Marianne , Cohen Adam F. , Driessen Gertjan J. A.
Published: June 2020

Background

Diagnosis and follow‐up of respiratory diseases traditionally rely on pulmonary function tests (PFTs), which are currently performed in hospitals and require trained personnel. Smartphone‐connected spirometers, like the Air Next spirometer, have been developed to aid in the home monitoring of patients with pulmonary disease. The aim of this study was to investigate the technical validity and usability of the Air Next spirometer in pediatric patients.

Methods

Device variability was tested with a calibrated syringe. About 90 subjects, aged 6 to 16, were included in a prospective cohort study. Fifty‐eight subjects performed conventional spirometry and subsequent Air Next spirometry. The bias and the limits of agreement between the measurements were calculated. Furthermore, subjects used the device for 28 days at home and completed a subject‐satisfaction questionnaire at the end of the study period.

Results

Interdevice variability was 2.8% and intradevice variability was 0.9%. The average difference between the Air Next and conventional spirometry was 40 mL for forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) and 3 mL for forced vital capacity (FVC). The limits of agreement were −270 mL and +352 mL for FEV1 and −403 mL and +397 mL for FVC. About 45% of FEV1 measurements and 41% of FVC measurements at home were acceptable and reproducible according to American Thoracic Society/European Respiratory Society criteria. Parents scored difficulty, usefulness, and reliability of the device 1.9, 3.5, and 3.8 out of 5, respectively.

Conclusion

The Air Next device shows validity for the measurement of FEV1 and FVC in a pediatric patient population.
Computational backbone design enables soluble engineering of transferrin receptor apical domain
Authors: Sjöström Dick J. , Berger Sarah A. , Oberdorfer Gustav , Bjelic Sinisa
Published: June 2020

Supply of iron into human cells is achieved by iron carrier protein transferrin and its receptor that upon complex formation get internalized by endocytosis. Similarly, the iron needs to be delivered into the brain, and necessitates the transport across the blood‐brain barrier. While there are still unanswered questions about these mechanisms, extensive efforts have been made to use the system for delivery of therapeutics into biological compartments. The dimeric form of the receptor, where each subunit consists of three domains, further complicates the detailed investigation of molecular determinants responsible for guiding the receptor interactions with other proteins. Especially the apical domain's biological function has been elusive. To further the study of transferrin receptor, we have computationally decoupled the apical domain for soluble expression, and validated the design strategy by structure determination. Besides presenting a methodology for solubilizing domains, the results will allow for study of apical domain's function.
The Scottish Polypharmacy Guidance app in practice
Authors: Barnett Nina , Minshull John , Algebory Mona , Dave Krupa , Jhingan Monica , Kalsi Devinder , Lawal Funke , Said Quratull‐Anne , Saran Gurpreet
Published: June 2020

Medication reviews are an integral part of effective medicines optimisation. The NHS Scotland Polypharmacy Guidance – Medicines Review provides an app that is convenient to use in all care settings, giving users access to up‐to‐date, evidence‐based guidance. Currently, pharmacists conduct medication reviews using a combination of personal experience and national guidance; however, there is no agreed protocol for this. In this scoping exercise, eight medication review pharmacists from two neighbouring trusts conducted medication reviews for 64 patients to explore how the clinical section of the app compared with their usual care in terms of identifying drug‐related problems across various care settings.
NICE on antimicrobial prescribing for impetigo
Authors: Chaplin Steve
Published: June 2020

NICE's antimicrobial prescribing guidelines offer evidence‐based advice to help healthcare professionals and patients manage common infections and reduce antimicrobial resistance. Here, we provide a summary of the guideline on managing impetigo in children and adults (NG153).
Romosozumab for the treatment of severe osteoporosis
Authors: Chaplin Steve
Published: June 2020

Romosozumab (Evenity) is a new monoclonal antibody therapy for severe osteoporosis in postmenopausal women at high risk of fracture. This article outlines its indications, clinical trial efficacy and side‐effects.
NICE on the management of diverticular disease
Authors: Chaplin Steve
Published: June 2020

NICE's guideline on the management of diverticular disease in adults (NG147) aims to improve diagnosis and care, and to help patients get timely advice about symptoms and when to seek help. This article provides an overview of the guidance.
A hard pill to swallow
Authors: Thompson Angus
Published: June 2020

Difficulty swallowing oral medication is a common problem, particularly among older patients, and all kinds of factors may cause issues: tablets may be too large, too small or the wrong shape. Here, Angus Thompson suggests some possible solutions, which are as diverse as the problems themselves.
Sophoricoside is a selective LXRβ antagonist with potent therapeutic effects on hepatic steatosis of mice
Authors: Zhang Yu , Li Fei , Jiang Xi , Jiang Xiqian , Wang Yahui , Zhang Haiyan , Zhang Li , Fan Shengjie , Xin Lianjun , Yang Baican , Ji Guang , Huang Cheng
Published: June 2020

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a chronic liver disease characterized by the accumulation of triglycerides and associated with obesity, hyperlipidemia and insulin resistance. Currently, there is no therapy for NAFLD. Emerging evidences suggest that the inhibition of liver X receptor (LXR) activity may be a potential therapy for hepatic steatosis. Here, we identified that sophoricoside is a selective antagonist of LXRβ. Sophoricoside protected against obesity and glucose tolerance, and inhibited lipid accumulation in the liver of high‐fat diet‐induced obesity (DIO) mice and methionine and choline‐deficient diet‐induced nonalcoholic steatohepatitis mice. Furthermore, sophoricoside inhibited malondialdehyde, and increased superoxide dismutase and glutathione in the liver of the mice. In HepG2 cells, pretreatment with sophoricoside rescued GSH concentration decrease induced by H2O2 treatment. Our data suggest that sophoricoside is a novel LXRβ selective antagonist and may improve glucose and lipid dysfunction, and attenuate lipid accumulation in the liver of DIO mice via anti‐oxidant properties, which may be developed as a therapy for NAFLD.
Baroclinic instability and nonlinear oscillations in the truncated SQG model
Authors: Kalashnik M. V. , Chkhetiani O. G.
Published: June 2020

Baroclinic instability of a flow with a constant vertical shear in a zonal channel has been studied. The maximally truncated SQG model was used to describe the dynamics of flow disturbances. A dynamic system describing nonlinear interactions between unstable counter‐propagating Rossby waves with one zonal wave number and a neutral mode independent of zonal coordinate has been formulated within the framework of this model. Both analytical and numerical solutions of the system show that exponentially increasing disturbances at the linear stage of instability development give way to nonlinear oscillations (vacillations). The occurrence of such oscillations is caused by the law of conservation of surface potential energy. According to numerical estimates, the period of oscillations is of the order of a month, which is in agreement with measurement data obtained for the winter atmosphere.
An explanation of the unusual strength of thehydrogen bondin small water clusters
Authors: Li Shuman , Azizi Alireza , Kirk Steven R. , Jenkins Samantha
Published: June 2020

We seek to explain why the hydrogen bond possesses unusual strength in small water clusters that account for many of the complex behaviors of water. We have investigated and visualized the donation of covalent character from covalent (sigma) to hydrogen bonds by calculating the eigenvector coupling properties of quantum theory of atoms in molecules (QTAIM), stress tensorσ(r), and Ehrenfest ForceF(r) on theF(r) molecular graph. The next‐generation three‐dimensional (3‐D) bond‐path framework sets are presented, and only theF(r) bond‐path framework sets reproduce the earlier finding on the coupling between covalent (sigma) and hydrogen bonds that possess a degree of covalent character. Exploration of the bond‐path between the covalent (sigma) and hydrogen bond's critical points provides an explanation for the previously obtained coupling results. The directional character of the covalent (sigma) and hydrogen bonds' 3‐D bond‐path framework sets for theF(r) explains differences found in the earlier results from QTAIM and the stress tensorσ(r).
Improvement of early developmental competence of postovulatory‐aged oocytes using metaphase II spindle injection in mice
Authors: Ogawa Tatsuyuki , Fukasawa Hiroko , Hirata Shuji
Published: June 2020

Purpose

Assisted reproductive technology (ART) is a widely applied fertility treatment. However, the developmental competence of aged oocytes from women of a late reproductive age is seriously reduced and the aged oocytes often fail in fertilization even when ART is used. To resolve this problem, we examined usefulness of a new method “the metaphase II spindle transfer (MESI)” as ART using mouse oocytes.

Methods

This work was composed of two experiments. First, 24 hours after collection, embryos from oocytes (1‐day‐old oocytes, called postovulatory‐aged oocytes), were observed, after intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), and it was found that they were not able to reach the blastocyst stage. Next, the metaphase II chromosome‐spindle complexes from 1‐day‐old oocytes were injected into cytoplasts from oocytes just collected, using piezo pulses to generate reconstructed oocytes. This procedure was named metaphase II spindle injection (MESI).

Results

After ICSI, embryos from the reconstructed oocytes (32/105), which contained the genes of 1‐day‐old oocytes, were able to develop into the blastocyst stage. The fragmentation rate after ICSI was 28.6%. Thus, the developmental competence of 1‐day‐old oocytes was improved by MESI.

Conclusions

The MESI method has the potential to improve the success rate of infertility treatments for women of a late reproductive age.
Electronic Properties of Artificial Metal‐DNA Base Pair Complexes Formed from Hydroxypyridone Base
Authors: Üngördü Ayhan , Tezer Nurten
Published: June 2020

The metal‐mediated hydroxypyridone base pairs containing Ni2+, Cu2+, Zn2+, Pd2+, Cd2+, Pt2+, and Hg2+ ions were designed theoretically using by density functional theory (DFT) method in Gaussian 09 program. The calculations which were performed in the gas phase, methanol, water, and formamide were done at B3LYP functional with LANL2DZ and 6–311++G (d, p) basis sets which were used metals and rest atoms, respectively. The Gibbs free energies of the complexes were calculated and their relative stabilities were determined in the mentioned fields. Furthermore, geometric parameters, HOMO, LUMO, energy gap energies of the compounds were computed in all media and effect on these parameters of solvents were determined. Based on these parameters, the relative conductivities of the investigated molecules were predicted. On the other hand, using Atomistix ToolKit (ATK‐VNL) 2016 program, nonequilibrium Green's function (NEGF) calculations based on the combination DFT of the mentioned complexes were carried out. The transport properties of the molecules were found in detailed via NEGF‐DFT method.
Effect of Doping Metal Oxide in ZnO/SBA‐15 on Its Acid‐Base Properties and Performance in Ethanol‐to‐Butadiene Process
Authors: Tu Pengxiang , Xue Bing , Tong Yuqin , Zhou Jian , He Yaohui , Cheng Yunhui , Ni Jun , Li Xiaonian
Published: June 2020

The Ethanol‐to‐Butadiene (ETB) process is experiencing a renaissance with the increasing shortage of petroleum‐based resources, however, the development of active catalysts for this process still remains sluggish due to the lack of fundamental understanding of the properties of catalysts, especially acidity and basicity. We present here that individual reaction step in the ETB process requires specific acid or/and basic sites with different strengths and densities. Weak acid and moderate basic sites are beneficial for ethanol dehydrogenation, while moderate basic sites with optimal strength are also active for condensation and Meerwein‐Ponndorf‐Verley‐Oppenauer (MPVO) reactions. In contrast, moderate and strong acid sites cause the ethanol dehydration, lowering the selectivity towards 1,3‐butadiene (BD) production. Moreover, the selectivity and yield of BD are more dependent on the properties of sites for both condensation and MPVO reactions than for dehydrogenation reaction.
Hydrogen Sensors Using 2‐Dimensional Materials: A Review
Authors: Pham Thi Kieu Ngan , Brown Joseph J.
Published: June 2020

Widespread application of hydrogen for energy storage, manufacturing processes, medical treatment, and other uses has motivated development in hydrogen sensing technology for safety and control. Hydrogen sensors have been well studied and commercialized yet face increasing demand for lower cost, broader operating conditions, and especially smaller scale. Two‐dimensional (2D) materials have gained prominence due to atom‐scale thicknesses and special structure which give rise to unique electrical and mechanical properties in combination with the potential for submicron miniaturization of sensing devices. These characteristics pose a high potential for gas detection in general and for hydrogen detection in particular. This paper reviews hydrogen sensors utilizing 2D materials in order to provide insight into current sensing technologies and opportunities for future hydrogen detection devices.
Activated ZrC Promotes the Methanol Electro‐oxidation Activity and Enhances Poison Tolerance of Pt Nanoparticles in Acidic Medium
Authors: K. Sahoo Malaya , Shanmugam Ramasamy , Umeshbabu Ediga , Ranga Rao G.
Published: June 2020

Metal carbides which mimic Pt metal are good promoters for electrocatalytic reactions. Here we report the promoting activity of activated ZrC (a‐ZrC) towards methanol electrooxidation reaction. The a‐ZrC samples are prepared from commercial ZrC by chemical activation at two different temperatures (600 and 800 °C) using Na2CO3 as an activating reagent. The BET surface area of the commercial ZrC sample is 1 m2 g−1 which has been increased to 82 m2 g−1 and 134 m2 g−1 by chemical activation at 600 and 800 °C, respectively. In order to study the promoting activity of the activated ZrC samples in direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC), a‐ZrC supported Pt/Vulcan carbon (XC) is synthesized through conventional polyol reflux method. The electrocatalytic activities of Pt/a‐ZrC800‐XC, Pt/a‐ZrC600‐XC, Pt/ZrC‐XC and Pt/XC electrocatalysts have been studied towards methanol electrooxidation reaction in an acidic media. The triple interface between Pt, activated ZrC and Vulcan carbon (Vulcan XC‐72R) reduces the adsorption energies, facilitating fast transport and short diffusion paths for electroactive species, which makes the Pt/a‐ZrC800‐XC catalyst promising for DMFC applications. The decrease in adsorption energies is confirmed by the first principle calculations which show that the relative energy values of methanol adsorption, conversion of methanol to CO and further to CO2 on Pt/ZrC‐XC are much more negative than Pt/XC and bare Pt, indicating the thermodynamic feasibility of the reaction. The electrochemical analysis shows that, Pt/a‐ZrC800‐XC electrocatalyst provides higher mass activity, higher antipoisioning activity, and required stability towards methanol electrooxidation reaction.
Application of N‐Acylimidazoles in the Claisen Condensation Reaction
Authors: Quan Haiyuan , Wang Liuyang , Wang Zhinan , Mei Xiangdong , Ning Jun , She Dongmei
Published: June 2020

The Claisen condensation reaction is a classical method used for the formation of C−C bonds. Homo‐ and cross‐Claisen condensation reactions are usually carried out using a Ti(IV)‐based reagent at ultra‐low‐temperatures. In this report, intermediate β‐keto acyl imidazoles were synthesised using a sodium imidazolide‐catalysed homo‐ and cross‐condensation reaction of N‐acyl imidazoles performed under mild conditions and subsequently used to prepare a range of β‐keto esters and ketones via alcoholysis or hydrolysis. This method is particularly suitable for the synthesis of isotopically‐labelled acetylacetic ester compounds. N‐acyl imidazole compounds are useful reactants for the Claisen condensation reaction.
Cyclodextrin ‐ Stabilized Palladium Nanoparticles on Ceria: Investigation of Support Interactions and Pivotal Promotion in the Suzuki‐Miyaura Reaction
Authors: de Barros Suellen D. T. , Duarte João Paulo P. , Rocha Luiz Diego S. , Ramos Vitor S. , Navarro Maria Isabel R. , Archanjo Braulio S. , Medeiros Marta E. , De Campos José B. , Da Costa Marcelo E. H. M. , Lachter Elizabeth R. , Senra Jaqueline D. , Malta Luiz Fernando B.
Published: June 2020

The present work is focused on the understanding of the CeO2 support interactions with cyclodextrin‐stabilized palladium nanoparticles (PdNPs) and the effect in the Suzuki‐Miyaura reaction outcome. Mostly, it is evidenced the strong influence of the cyclodextrin torus on the reactivity of PdNPs towards the ceria matrix. Structural characterization by X‐rays photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) Raman spectroscopy, diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS) and powder X‐rays diffraction (XRD, via Rietveld refinement) afforded to infer that palladium is being partially brought into the CeO2 structure. Transmission electron microscopies (TEM and STEM) visualizations allowed to evidence a bimodal size distribution of PdNPs (1–5 nm and 20–100 nm) over the catalysts even though particles up to 5 nm are probably the most responsible for the catalytic results reported herein.
Thermal Radiation Synthesis of Ultrafine Platinum Nanoclusters toward Methanol Oxidation
Authors: Qiao Yun , Liu Yifan , Liu Yang , Dong Qi , Zhong Geng , Wang Xiang , Liu Zhenyu , Wang Xizheng , He Shuaiming , Zhou Wenqi , Wang Guofeng , Wang Chao , Hu Liangbing
Published: June 2020

Direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs) are considered as a promising candidate for portable electronic devices and small electric vehicles due to their high gravimetric and volumetric energy densities. The operation of DMFCs requires efficient catalysts, especially on the anode to promote methanol oxidation reaction (MOR). To date, platinum has emerged as a chief contender for MOR. Unfortunately, most catalysts suffer from severe CO poisoning, which can passivate the catalytic surface and decrease the activity over time. Herein, a transient, thermal radiation method to synthesize ultrafine platinum nanoclusters (0.68 ± 0.13 nm) supported on carbon black (Pt NC/CB) is demonstrated. The sample demonstrates a great CO poisoning resistance and excellent activity toward MOR. The ultrafine platinum nanoclusters with increased active sites can promote the oxidation of CO at potential as low as 0.4 V. The Pt NC/CB displays an onset potential of 0.4 V and a peak current density of 1.30 mA cm−2ECSA (electrochemical active surface area), which is superior than that of reported catalysts (0.57–1.06 mA cm−2ECSA), while many of the catalysts are alloys involving noble metals. This work showcases an efficient method to prepare Pt nanoclusters with high MOR activity and great CO poisoning resistance.
Efficient Bidentate Molecules Passivation Strategy for High‐Performance and Stable Inorganic CsPbI2Br Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Li Hui , Yin Longwei
Published: June 2020

All inorganic mixed‐halide CsPbI2Br perovskites with suitable bandgap and superior thermal durability have ignited rising interests in the field of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). However, the serious energy losses derived from deleterious trap‐assisted defects–induced notorious nonradiative recombination and inferior moisture durability are still the primary hindrance on the way to develop high‐performance CsPbI2Br PSCs. Herein, a novel passivation strategy is presented by introducing dual‐functionalized bidentate molecule 2‐(2′‐thienyl)pyridine (2‐ThPy) to modulate perovskite crystallization and passivate halogen vacancy defects. Compared with monodentate counterparts, 2‐ThPy can anchor Pb2+ sites via S and N atomic bonding simultaneously, and the synthesized CsPbI2Br films exhibit enlarged grain size, show advantages to passivate defect states, and dramatically reduce trap density, thereby lessening the detrimental carrier recombination. Consequently, a champion power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 12.69% with negligible hysteresis is delivered for the fabricated CsPbI2Br PSCs treated with 2‐ThPy. Moreover, the moisture stability of CsPbI2Br PSCs with 2‐ThPy is also greatly enhanced, and the device without encapsulation retains 92% of initial PCE value after 30 days aging under 25 °C and 40% relative humidity in ambient environment. The bidentate molecules passivation strategy paves a promising avenue to implement efficient and stable inorganic PSCs.
The Implementation of Industry 4.0 – A Systematic Literature Review of the Key Factors
Authors: Hoyer Christian , Gunawan Indra , Reaiche Carmen Haule
Published: June 2020

Within only a couple of years, Industry 4.0 made the transition from a potential buzzword with an uncertain future to a serious manufacturing concept that is adopted by a constantly increasing number of companies. However, recent studies suggest that corporations struggle with the transitional process or even hesitate to implement Industry 4.0 at all. As a consequence, several investigations examined the potential factors that influence the implementation of Industry 4.0. Yet a comprehensive view of the issue cannot be formed because the findings are spread throughout a number of publications, and no single study has attempted to synthesize previous investigations. Therefore, this study sets out to build a solid foundation for future research and to provide orientation for practitioners and governmental institutions by building a bridge between what already has been explored and by showing how the Systems Thinking perspective can help to get a better understanding of the complex nature of Industry 4.0. Based on a systematic literature review, this study presents and discusses a comprehensive list of potential factors that influence the implementation of Industry 4.0 and strengthens the idea that further research is necessary in order to address contradictory findings and to develop efficient Industry 4.0 implementation frameworks.
Diversification of New World Cleomaceae with emphasis on Tarenaya and the description of Iltisiella, a new genus
Authors: Soares Neto Raimundo Luciano , Thomas William Wayt , de Vasconcellos Barbosa Maria Regina , Roalson Eric H.
Published: June 2020

The family Cleomaceae is represented in the Neotropics by nine native lineages, with some of them currently recognized as distinct genera and others in need of clear delimitation. We present here a new phylogenetic hypothesis for the New World Cleomaceae with a more comprehensive sampling, including samples of 62 species with emphasis on Tarenaya and based on nrDNA ITS and cpDNA matK and ndhF. Six clades are supported: (1) a new clade comprising Cleome tenuis and Physostemon humilis; and five other previously identified clades: (2) the Dactylaena clade, including the monophyletic Dactylaena and the paraphyletic Physostemon and Mitostylis; (3) the Andean clade, comprising Andinocleome and Podandrogyne; (4) the Melidiscus clade; (5) the Cleoserrata clade, and (6) the Tarenaya clade; the last three corresponding to genera with the same name. The lineage comprising C. tenuis and P. humilis is strongly supported by morphological and molecular datasets, and a new genus, named Iltisiella, comprising these species is proposed here. Tarenaya is clearly demonstrated to be a monophyletic genus, corroborating previous analyses. We identify four subclades in its topology, and the relationships among the species in each subclade revealed to be moderately to strongly resolved. Furthermore, we conducted a historical biogeographical analysis of the New World Cleomaceae on time‐calibrated trees, and our results suggest an Oligocene origin at least 35.02 Mya with a MRCA distributed in Mesoamerica and the Northern Andes. For Tarenaya, our results suggest a Miocene origin at least 17 Mya, with the most recent common ancestor in the Chacoan and Atlantic Forest geographic areas.
Navigating the Challenges of Integrating and Assessing Interprofessional Education
Authors: Helms Kristen L. , Held Mary L.
Published: June 2020

Interprofessional education (IPE) provides healthcare students with educational experiences that will prepare them for the evolving team‐based approach to healthcare. With significant differences in training approaches, areas of expertise, commitment to IPE, and resources among disciplines, curricular developers must be strategic and deliberate to address common challenges and capitalize on programmatic strengths.
Developing Interprofessional Clinical Rotations in Low Income Areas: Learned Strategies for Healthcare Educators
Authors: Stidham April L.
Published: June 2020

This chapter describes the setting for interprofessional education and practice with an emphasis on the development of interprofessional clinical rotations. The barriers and challenges for healthcare facilities serving patients in rural areas with limited resources is outlined. The process for establishing academic and healthcare institutional partnerships is also discussed, along with strategies to prepare faculty to serve as preceptors.
Using Learning Theory to Shape Learning Experiences in Health Care Education: Not Scary at All!
Authors: Brown Jo
Published: June 2020

Whenever the word “theory” is used in association with teaching and learning people often react scared. This chapter is an attempt to dispel some myths about using learning theory in health care education in the hope that you will celebrate theory for the fascinating thing it is.
Personalized Learning Pathways: Using Technology to Promote Learning Beyond the Classroom
Authors: Welch Bacon Cailee E. , Gaither Kirsty
Published: June 2020

This chapter discusses using technology to create Personalized Learning Pathways. Adaptable for any class format, such applications offer solutions for establishing competency, promoting deep and active learning, and empowering the instructor's data‐driven decision‐making.
Toward a Scholarship of Teaching and Learning: Addressing Ethics and Humanities in Health Professions Education
Authors: Gillis Marin , Lemus‐Martinez Samantha , DeBaets Amy Michelle
Published: June 2020

This chapter offers a “how‐to” guide for getting started in the scholarship of teaching and learning addressing ethics and humanities in health professions education. It provides an overview of the current state of medical humanities education scholarship, addresses challenges to effective scholarship, and examines case studies in educational research methods, as well as considerations in publishing and funding.
Profession Based Hierarchies as Barriers for Genuine Learning Processes
Authors: Teig Inger Lise
Published: June 2020

This chapter describes how profession based hierarchies (stratified social orders between professions) may appear in a teaching context of interprofessionality involving a variety of health professions presenting challenges to learning and offers suggestions on how these challenges can be overcome.
Unsupervised assessment of cognition in the Healthy Brain Project: Implications for web‐based registries of individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Perin Stephanie , Buckley Rachel F. , Pase Matthew P. , Yassi Nawaf , Lavale Alexandra , Wilson Peter H. , Schembri Adrian , Maruff Paul , Lim Yen Ying
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Web‐based platforms are used increasingly to assess cognitive function in unsupervised settings. The utility of cognitive data arising from unsupervised assessments remains unclear. We examined the acceptability, usability, and validity of unsupervised cognitive testing in middle‐aged adults enrolled in the Healthy Brain Project.

Methods

A total of 1594 participants completed unsupervised assessments of the Cogstate Brief Battery. Acceptability was defined by the amount of missing data, and usability by examining error of test performance and the time taken to read task instructions and complete tests (learnability).

Results

Overall, we observed high acceptability (98% complete data) and high usability (95% met criteria for low error rates and high learnability). Test validity was confirmed by observation of expected inverse relationships between performance and increasing test difficulty and age.

Conclusion

Consideration of test design paired with acceptability and usability criteria can provide valid indices of cognition in the unsupervised settings used to develop registries of individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease.
Prediction of B cell and T‐helper cell epitopes candidates of bovine leukaemia virus (BLV) by in silico approach
Authors: Hooshmand Negar , Fayazi Jamal , Tabatabaei Saleh , Ghaleh Golab Behbahan Nader
Published: June 2020

The bovine leukaemia virus (BLV) is a retrovirus responsible for enzootic bovine leukaemia (EBL) disease, the most common cattle disease leading to high annual economic losses to the cattle breeding industry. Virus monitoring among the sheep and cattle herds is usually done by vaccination. Inactivated virus vaccines can partially protect the livestock from viral challenge. However, vaccinated animals are likely to be infected. So, there is an essential need for producing vaccine by other methods. Gp60 SU, encoded by Env gene, is the surface glycoprotein of BLV detected to be the major target for the host immunity against the virus. Different stages were performed to predict the potential B and T‐helper cell epitopes. The general framework of the method includes retrieving the amino acid sequence of gp60 SU, conducting the sequence alignment, getting the entropy plot, retrieving the previously found epitopes, predicting the hydropathy parameters, modelling the tertiary structure of the glycoprotein, minimizing the structure energy, validating the model by Ramachandran plot, predicting the linear and discontinuous epitopes by various servers and eventually choosing the consensus immunogenic regions. Ramachandran plot scrutiny has demonstrated that the modelled prediction is accurate and suitable. By surveying overlaps of various results, 4 and 2 immunogenic regions were selected as linear and conformational epitopes respectively. Amino acids 35–53, 67–97, 288–302 and 410–421 and those of numbers 37–58 and 72–100 were the regions selected as linear and conformational epitopes respectively. The tertiary structure of the final epitope was modelled as well. A comparison of the predicted epitopes structure with that of gp60 SU envelope, illustrated that the tertiary structure of these epitopes does not change after being separated from the primary complete one. The present achievements will lead to a better interpretation of the antigen–antibody interactions against gp60 in the designing process of safe and efficient vaccines.
Investigation into the morphological and mechanical properties of date palm fiber‐reinforced epoxy structural composites
Authors: Alarifi Ibrahim M.
Published: June 2020

This study aims to examine the morphology and mechanical properties (tensile, flexural, and compressive) of epoxy composites reinforced with epoxy date palm leaves (EDPL), epoxy date palm branch (EDPB), and epoxy/hardener date palm core shell (EDPC) fibers (particle size <1 μm depend on the date palm fibers). A three‐step technique was used to obtain the composites. The EDPL composites showed a maximum tensile strength of 3.45 MPa, while the EDPB composites showed maximum compressive and flexural rigidity of 9.46 and 5.55 MPa, respectively, owing to the good compatibility of fiber‐matrix bonding. In this work, epoxy composites reinforced with date palm fibers (DPF) leaves, branches, and core shell were recycled using a cost‐effective and easily reproducible three‐step technique. EDPC fibers fabricated with 64.65% weight carbon fibers content demonstrated improved tensile strengths and stiffness properties. The three samples of palm date composites revealed mechanical properties that could be used to trial these fibers for manufacturing purposes, and to exploit their extraordinary mechanical properties shown in current results.
Updates on extraction of |Vcb| and SM prediction of R(D*) in B → D*ℓνℓ decays
Authors: Jaiswal Sneha , Nandi Soumitra , Patra Sunando Kumar
Published: June 2020

Abstract

We update the standard model (SM) predictions of R(D*) using the latest results on the decay distributions in B → D
∗ℓν
ℓ (ℓ = μ, e) by Belle collaboration, while extracting |V

cb
| at the same time. Depending on the inputs used in the analysis, we define various fit scenarios. Although the central values of the predicted R(D*) in all the scenarios have reduced from its earlier predictions in 2017, the results are consistent with each other within the uncertainties. In this analysis, our prediction of R(D*) is consistent with the respective world average at ∼ 3σ. We have also predicted several angular observables associated with B → D
*
τν

τ
decays. We note that the predicted FL(D*) is consistent with the corresponding measurement at 2σ. Utilizing these new results, we fit the Wilson coefficients appearing beyond the standard model of particle physics (BSM). To see the trend of SM predictions, we have used the recently published preliminary results on the form-factors at non-zero recoil by the lattice groups like Fermilab-MILC and JLQCD and predicted the observables in B → D
∗ℓν
ℓ, and B → D

*

τντ decays.
Supersymmetric protection and the Swampland
Authors: Palti Eran , Vafa Cumrun , Weigand Timo
Published: June 2020

Abstract

For certain terms in the action, supersymmetry can forbid an infinite number of possible contributions. We study whether such protection can occur in quantum gravity even without sufficient supersymmetry. We focus on whether the superpotential can vanish exactly in four-dimensional

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

= 1 theories, and if the prepotential can be exactly cubic in

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

= 2 theories. We investigate these questions in string theory and find that for almost all known string constructions the corrections allowed by supersymmetry do occur. However, we do find some special settings where all the corrections can be proven to vanish. These examples all share the common feature that they are related, through a certain orbifolding by a discrete gauged R-symmetry element, to a higher supersymmetric theory. Motivated by these results, we propose a Swampland criterion that any theory which enjoys such protection beyond its realised supersymmetry must have a direct connection to a higher supersymmetric theory.
Pion and kaon condensation at zero temperature in three-flavor χPT at nonzero isospin and strange chemical potentials at next-to-leading order
Authors: Adhikari Prabal , Andersen Jens O.
Published: June 2020

Abstract

We consider three-flavor chiral perturbation theory (χPT) at zero temperature and nonzero isospin (μ

I
) and strange (μ

S
) chemical potentials. The effective potential is calculated to next-to-leading order (NLO) in the π

±
-condensed phase, the K

±
-condensed phase, and the

$$ {K}^0/{\overline{K}}^0 $$

K
0

/

K
¯

0

-condensed phase. It is shown that the transitions from the vacuum phase to these phases are second order and take place when,

$$ \left|{\mu}_I\right|={m}_{\pi },\left|\frac{1}{2}{\mu}_I+{\mu}_S\right|={m}_K $$

μ
I

=

m
π

,

1
2

μ
I

+

μ
S

=

m
K

, and

$$ \left|-\frac{1}{2}{\mu}_I+{\mu}_S\right|={m}_K $$

−

1
2

μ
I

+

μ
S

=

m
K

, respectively at tree level and remains unchanged at NLO. The transition between the two condensed phases is first order. The effective potential in the pion-condensed phase is independent of μ

S
and in the kaon-condensed phases, it only depends on the combinations

$$ \pm \frac{1}{2}{\mu}_I+{\mu}_S $$

±

1
2

μ
I

+

μ
S

and not separately on μ

I
and μ

S
. We calculate the pressure, isospin density and the equation of state in the pion-condensed phase and compare our results with recent (2 + 1)-flavor lattice QCD data. We find that the three-flavor χPT results are in good agreement with lattice QCD for μ

I

< 200 MeV, however for larger values χPT produces values for observables that are consistently above lattice results. For μ

I

> 200 MeV, the two-flavor results are in better agreement with lattice data. Finally, we consider the observables in the limit of very heavy s-quark, where they reduce to their two-flavor counterparts with renormalized couplings. The disagreement between the predictions of two and three flavor χPT can largely be explained by the differences in the experimental values of the low-energy constants.
The Sinkhorn algorithm, parabolic optimal transport and geometric Monge–Ampère equations
Authors: Berman Robert J.
Published: June 2020

We show that the discrete Sinkhorn algorithm—as applied in the setting of Optimal Transport on a compact manifold—converges to the solution of a fully non-linear parabolic PDE of Monge–Ampère type, in a large-scale limit. The latter evolution equation has previously appeared in different contexts (e.g. on the torus it can be be identified with the Ricci flow). This leads to algorithmic approximations of the potential of the Optimal Transport map, as well as the Optimal Transport distance, with explicit bounds on the arithmetic complexity of the construction and the approximation errors. As applications we obtain explicit schemes of nearly linear complexity, at each iteration, for optimal transport on the torus and the two-sphere, as well as the far-field antenna problem. Connections to Quasi-Monte Carlo methods are exploited.
Homogeneous deformations of toric pairs
Authors: Petracci Andrea
Published: June 2020

We extend the Altmann–Mavlyutov construction of homogeneous deformations of affine toric varieties to the case of toric pairs $$(X, \partial X)$$

(
X
,
∂
X
)

, where X is an affine or projective toric variety and $$\partial X$$

∂
X

is its toric boundary. As an application, we generalise a result due to Ilten to the case of Fano toric pairs.
Pouch failures following restorative proctocolectomy in ulcerative colitis
Authors: Helavirta Ilona , Lehto Kirsi , Huhtala Heini , Hyöty Marja , Collin Pekka , Aitola Petri
Published: June 2020

Purpose

Restorative proctocolectomy (RPC) is the most common operation in ulcerative colitis. Nevertheless, permanent ileostomy will sometimes be unavoidable. The aim was to evaluate the reasons for pouch failure and early morbidity after pouch excision.

Methods

The number and the reasons for pouch failures were analysed in patients undergoing RPC 1985-2016.

Results

Out of 491 RPC patients, 53 experienced pouch failure (10 women, 43 men); 52 out of 53 underwent pouch excision. The cumulative risk for excision at 5, 10 and 20 years was 5.6, 9.4 and 15.5%, respectively. The reasons for failure included septic events such as fistula in 12 (23%), chronic pouchitis in 11 (21%) and leakage in 8 (15%) patients. Functional reasons for pouch failure were recorded as poor function in 16 (30%), incontinence in 12 (23%) and stricture in 12 (23%) patients. Multiple causes for pouch failure were recorded for individual patients. Seven cases of Crohn’s disease were found among the failure cases: two before pouch excision and five after. Altogether, 15 Crohn’s disease diagnoses were set in the RPC cohort, giving a percentage of 47% of pouch failure in this disorder. A complication occurred in 23 (44%) patients within 30 days after surgery; 16 were mild (Clavien-Dindo grades I–II).

Conclusions

Eleven percent of RPC patients suffered pouch failure: more men than women. The reasons were multiple. Crohn’s disease created a risk of failure, but a half of these patients maintained the pouch. Morbidity after pouch excision was moderate, but in most cases slight.
D’Arcy W. Thompson’s Cartesian transformations: a critical evaluation
Authors: Scholtz Gerhard , Knötel David , Baum Daniel
Published: June 2020

The images of D’Arcy Wentworth Thompson’s book “On Growth and Form” got an iconic status and became influential for biometrics and other mathematical approaches to organismic form. In particular, this is true for those of the chapter on the theory of transformation, which even has an impact on art and humanities. Based on his approach, Thompson formulated far-reaching conclusions with a partly anti-Darwinian stance. Here, we use the example of Thompson’s transformation of crab carapaces to test to what degree the transformation of grids, landmarks, and shapes result in congruent images. For comparison, we applied the same series of tests to digitized carapaces of real crabs. Both approaches show similar results. Only the simple transformations show a reasonable form of congruence. In particular, the transformations to majoid spider crabs reveal a complicated transformation of grids with partly crossing lines. By contrast, the carapace of the lithodid species is relatively easily created despite the fact that it is no brachyuran, but evolved a spider crab-like shape convergently from a hermit crab ancestor.
Bardoxolone methyl: drug development for diabetic kidney disease
Authors: Kanda Hironori , Yamawaki Kengo
Published: June 2020

Bardoxolone methyl activates the Keap1/Nrf2 system that plays an important role in defense responses against oxidative stress. Importantly, bardoxolone methyl has demonstrated increases in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) in patients with diabetic kidney disease (DKD) in clinical studies. However, an overseas Phase 3 study of bardoxolone methyl in patients with stage G4 DKD was prematurely terminated due to an increased risk for heart failure, which was considered to have been caused by early-onset fluid overload. Subsequently, a Japanese Phase 2 study demonstrated, for the first time, that bardoxolone methyl directly improves GFR, which is a true indicator of kidney function, using the inulin clearance method. In Japan, bardoxolone methyl was designated for the treatment of DKD under the Priority Review and Designation (SAKIGAKE Designation) System established by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare. A Japanese Phase 3 study, with endpoints such as a ≥ 30% decrease in eGFR, is currently ongoing to assess the efficacy and safety of bardoxolone methyl in more than 1,000 patients with stages G3 and G4 DKD who have no identified risk factors.