bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exercise-induced laryngeal obstruction in children and adolescents: are we listening?
Authors: Welsh Liam , Giannini Alessandra , Massie John
Published: October 2020

Exertional dyspnoea among children and adolescents is a common presenting complaint to general practitioners. Exertional dyspnoea is most commonly attributed to exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB), but there are several other causes including hyperventilation syndrome, breathlessness associated with normal exercise limitation and exercise-induced laryngeal obstruction (EILO). The symptoms of EILO include stridor, throat tightness and difficulty on inspiration. If these are mistaken for EIB, children will receive asthma therapy. The underlying mechanism of EILO includes closure of the larynx during high-intensity exercise, which causes a reduction in airflow and breathlessness. This phenomenon is often associated with a background of psychological stress. Historically, a diagnosis of EILO has been considered ‘rare’ though this may be a reflection of under-recognition. Direct visual observation via laryngoscopy is the gold standard for diagnosis of EILO; however, this is rarely available even in specialised centres. Nevertheless, the diagnosis can usually be made by recognising the characteristic clinical pattern. Here we provide recommendations for appropriate investigations for the determination of EILO, together with suggested treatment.
What is the risk of recurrent concussion in children and adolescents aged 5–18 years? A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: van Ierssel Jacqueline , Osmond Martin , Hamid Jemila , Sampson Margaret , Zemek Roger
Published: October 2020

Objective

We aimed to examine the risk of concussion in children with a previous history of concussion.

Design

Systematic review and meta-analysis. The primary outcome was number of children with and without a previous lifetime history of concussion who sustained a diagnosed concussion within each study period. Risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. A random effects model was used to estimate a pooled risk ratio (RR) with corresponding 95% CIs; results were summarised in forest plots.

Data sources

Four electronic databases (MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, SPORTDiscus) and selected reference lists were searched (PROSPERO registration No CRD42019135462).

Eligibility criteria

Original English language peer-reviewed publications that compared concussion risk in children aged 5–18 years with and without a previous concussion history in which risk estimates were reported or able to be calculated.

Results

Of 732 identified studies, 7 studies representing 23 411 children (risk of bias range, 7–9; maximum possible score=9) were included for meta-analysis. Pooled risk of sustaining a concussion was more than three times greater in children with a previous concussion compared with those with no previous concussion (RR=3.64; 95% CI: 2.68 to 4.96; p<0.0001;
I
2
=90.55%). Unreported sex-stratified data precluded direct comparison of concussion risk in male versus female athletes.

Conclusion

Previously concussed children have four times the risk of sustaining a concussion compared with those with no previous concussion history. This should be a consideration for clinicians in return to sport decision-making. Future studies examining subsequent recurrent concussion in youth sports must consider sex differences.
Comparison of neurofilament light chain results between two independent facilities
Authors: Sejbaek Tobias , Mendoza Jason P , Penner Natasha , Madsen Jonna Skov , Olsen Dorte Aalund , Illes Zsolt
Published: October 2020

Objectives

To examine levels of neurofilament light chain (NFL) in identical cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and blood samples at two different facilities, and how differences affect interpretation of levels within and above the normal range.

Methods

CSF and plasma from patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and healthy controls (HCs) were analysed by Simoa (Quanterix) for levels of NFL providing a total of 165 CSF samples (119 from MS) and 225 plasma samples (180 from MS).

Results

CSF and plasma concentrations highly correlated between NFL laboratory facilities (R: 0.92 and 0.84, <0.0001, respectively), and there were no differences between facilities. A bias between the two sites for plasma was −0.95 pg/mL and for CSF −73.53 pg/mL. The cut-offs for CSF were 807.5 and 571.0 pg/mL at site 1 and site 2, respectively; the cut-offs for plasma were 13.0 and 11.8 pg/mL, respectively. Seven out of 180 plasma samples (3.9%) and 3 out of 119 CSF samples (2.5%) from MS patients could be reclassified as normal/abnormal, that is, below/above cut-off, when measured at different facilities.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates that results of NFL in CSF and blood measured with SIMOA are comparable between facilities. Nevertheless, healthcare practitioners should consider reference values at different laboratories, since different sensitivity/specificity can affect interpretation when low values are adjacent to cut-offs.
First trimester screening for pre-eclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction using three-dimensional Doppler angiography (SPIRIT): protocol for a multicentre prospective study in nulliparous pregnant women
Authors: Bertholdt Charline , Hossu Gabriela , Banasiak Claire , Beaumont Marine , Morel Olivier
Published: October 2020

Introduction

Pre-eclampsia (PE) and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) are two major pregnancy complications, related to chronic uteroplacental hypoperfusion. Nowadays, there is no screening or diagnostic test for uteroplacental vascularisation deficiency in pregnant women. Since 2004, 3 three-imensional power Doppler (3DPD) angiography has been used for the evaluation of uteroplacental vascularisation and three vascular indices are usually calculated: Vascularisation Index (VI), Flow Index (FI) and vascularisation-FI (VFI). A high intraobserver and interobserver reproducibility and a potential interest for placental function study were reported by our team and others.

The main objective of our study is to determine differences in 3DPD indices at first trimester between pregnancies defined at their outcome as uncomplicated pregnancy, PE (mild and severe) and IUGR in nulliparous women.

Methods and analysis

This is a national multicentre prospective cohort study conducted in four French maternity units. We expect to include 2200 women in a period of 36 months. The nulliparous pregnant women will be recruited during their first trimester consultation (11–13+6 gestation week (GW)).The 3DPD and uterine artery Doppler acquisition will be included in the current routine 11–13+6 GW ultrasound. Also, additional blood samples will be taken for biomarker analysis (PAPP-A and P1GF) and biological collection. Uteroplacental VIs (FI and VFI) will be measured. For each subgroup (uncomplicated pregnancy, PE and IUGR), mean values in 3DPD indices will be computed and compared using a pairwise t test with a Bonferroni correction p value adjustment.

Ethics and dissemination

The study was approved by the French Ethics Committee, the Comité de Protection des Personnes SUD MEDITERRANEE IV on 13 February 2018 with reference number 17 12 03. The results of this study will be published in a peer-reviewed journal and will be presented at relevant conferences.

Trial registration number

NCT03342014; Pre-results. PHRCN-16-0567.
Assault-related severe ocular chemical injury at a London ophthalmic referral hospital: a 3-year retrospective observational study
Authors: Hoffman Jeremy John , Casswell Edward Joshua , Shortt Alex John
Published: October 2020

Objectives

To understand the incidence, causes, management and outcomes of intentional (assault) and unintentional severe ocular chemical injuries (SOCI) at an urban tertiary referral centre in the UK.

Design

Retrospective observational study.

Setting

A London tertiary referral ophthalmic centre, Moorfields Eye Hospital.

Participants

All cases of SOCI presenting between 1 September 2011 and 31 August 2014 were identified. The definition of SOCI was grade 3 or 4 on the Hughes-Roper-Hall classification system. We identified 25 cases (6 in 2011–2012, 8 in 2012–2013, 11 in 2013–2014). Median age was 31.1 years. 23 cases (92%) were male.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The primary outcome was the proportion of cases of SOCI caused by assault, per year. Secondary outcome measures included the number of cases of SOCI, injury characteristics and mechanism, initial and long-term management, visual outcome and the need for surgical intervention.

Results

Between 2011 and 2012, 3/6 cases were due to assault (50%); between 2012 and 2013, 7/8 were due to assault (87.5%); and between 2013 and 2014, 6/11 were due to assault (54.4%). Assault was responsible for 16/25 (64%) cases overall, while 8/25 (32%) cases were work related. The causative agent was known to be alkali in 16/25 (64%), while 10/25 (40%) did not complete the follow-up. The mean number of clock hours of limbal ischaemia was 5.24 (SD 2.97). 17/25 (68%) were Hughes-Roper-Hall grade 3. Surgical intervention occurred in 1/25. The final best-corrected visual acuity was 6/12 or worse in 11/25 (44%) and was counting fingers or worse in 4/25 (16%).

Conclusions

Previous studies found that SOCI had a low incidence and that work-related injuries were the most common cause. Our study demonstrates an increasing incidence of SOCI, which may be accounted for by a rise in assault using corrosive substances. A high number of patients did not attend regularly for follow-up and visual outcomes from these injuries are poor.
Association between neutrophil-to-albumin ratio and mortality in patients with cardiogenic shock: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Peng Yangpei , Xue Yangjing , Wang Jinsheng , Xiang Huaqiang , Ji Kangting , Wang Jie , Lin Cong
Published: October 2020

Objectives

To investigate the prognostic value of neutrophil-to-albumin ratio (NAR) in critically ill patients with cardiogenic shock (CS).

Design

A retrospective cohort study.

Setting

A single centre in Boston, USA.

Participants

475 patients with CS were included, among which 272 (57.3%) were men and 328 (69.1%) were white.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The primary outcome was 90-day mortality and the secondary outcomes were 30-day and 365-day mortality.

Results

A significant positive correlation between NAR levels and 90-day, 30-day or 365-day mortality was observed. For 90-day mortality, the adjusted HR (95% CI) values given NAR levels 23.54–27.86 and >27.86 were 1.71 (1.14 to 2.55) and 1.93 (1.27 to 2.93) compared with the reference (NAR<23.47). Receiver operator characteristic curve analysis showed that NAR had a certain prognostic value in predicting 90-day mortality of CS, which was more sensitive than the neutrophil percentage or the serum albumin level alone (0.651 vs 0.509, 0.584). For the secondary outcomes, the upward trend remained statistically significant.

Conclusions

NAR level was associated with the mortality of CS patients. The prognostic value of NAR was more sensitive than the neutrophil percentage or the serum albumin level alone, but not as good as Sequential Organ Failure Assessment or Simplified Acute Physiology Score.
Patient and caregiver experiences with advanced cancer care: a qualitative study informing the development of an early palliative care pathway
Authors: Ahmed Sadia , Naqvi Syeda Farwa , Sinnarajah Aynharan , McGhan Gwen , Simon Jessica , Santana Maria
Published: October 2020

Background

Palliative care is an approach that improves the quality of life of patients and families facing challenges associated with life-threatening illness. In order to effectively deliver palliative care, patient and caregiver priorities need to be incorporated in advanced cancer care.

Aim

This study identified experiences of patients living with advanced colorectal cancer and their caregivers to inform the development of an early palliative care pathway.

Design

Qualitative patient-oriented study.

Settings/participants

Patients receiving care at two cancer centres were interviewed using semistructured telephone interviews to explore their experiences with cancer care services received prior to a new developed pathway. Interviews were transcribed verbatim, and the data were thematically analysed.

Results

From our study, we identified gaps in advanced cancer care that would benefit from an early palliative approach to care. 15 patients and 7 caregivers from Edmonton and Calgary were interviewed over the phone. Participants identified the following gaps in advanced cancer care: poor communication of diagnosis, lack of communication between healthcare providers, role and involvement of the family physician, lack of understanding of palliative care and advance care planning.

Conclusions

Early palliative approaches to care should consider consistent and routine delivery of palliative care information, collaborations among different disciplines such as oncology, primary care and palliative care, and engagement of patients and family caregivers in the development of care pathways.
COVID-19 risk management at the workplace, fear of infection and fear of transmission of infection among frontline employees
Authors: Nabe-Nielsen Kirsten , Nilsson Charlotte Juul , Juul-Madsen Maria , Bredal Charlotte , Hansen Lars Ole Preisler , Hansen Åse Marie
Published: October 2020

Objectives

We compared COVID-19 risk management, fear of infection and fear of transmission of infection among frontline employees working within eldercare, hospital/rehabilitation, psychiatry, childcare and ambulance service and explored if group differences in fear of infection and transmission could be explained by differences in risk management. We also investigated the association of risk management with fear of infection and fear of transmission of infection among eldercare personnel.

Methods

We used cross-sectional questionnaire data collected by the Danish labour union, FOA . Data were collected 5½ weeks after the first case of COVID-19 was registered in Denmark. Data for the first aim included 2623 participants. Data for the second aim included 1680 participants. All independent variables were mutually adjusted and also adjusted for sex, age, job title and region.

Results

Fear of infection (49%) and fear of transmitting infection from work to the private sphere (68%) was most frequent in ambulance service. Fear of transmitting infection during work was most frequent in the eldercare (55%). Not all differences in fear of infection and transmission between the five areas of work were explained by differences in risk management. Among eldercare personnel, self-reported exposure to infection and lack of access to test was most consistently associated with fear of infection and fear of transmission, whereas lack of access to personal protective equipment was solely associated with fear of transmission.

Conclusion

We have illustrated differences and similarities in COVID-19 risk management within five areas of work and provide new insights into factors associated with eldercare workers’ fear of infection and fear of transmission of infection.
Pregnancy in a healthy population: dynamics of NTproBNP and hs-cTroponin T
Authors: Furenäs Eva , Eriksson Peter , Wennerholm Ulla-Britt , Dellborg Mikael
Published: October 2020

Objective

To describe the intraindividual changes of heart biomarker levels during and after pregnancy and to evaluate existing cut-off levels for heart failure or myocardial ischaemia in pregnant women.

Method

A total of 196 healthy pregnant women were recruited from maternal outpatient clinics and included in the study. Blood samples were obtained on four occasions: at 10–12 gestational weeks (gw), 20–25 gw, after delivery and 6 months postpartum and analysed for N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NTproBNP) and high sensitive cardiac troponin T (hs-cTNT). Echocardiography ruled out existing cardiac disease. Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was calculated.

Results

There were significant changes in NTproBNP between the measurements with the highest NTproBNP at 10–12 gw and the lowest value being at 20–25 gw, (with eGFR being the highest). Hs-cTNT was significantly higher at the peripartum measurement compared with the other measurements (p<0.05). Regardless, the 95th percentile for both biomarkers was below cut-off levels of 300 ng/L for NTproBNP and 14 ng/L for hs-cTNT. There was an association between NTproBNP above the upper limit of normal of 125 ng/L and eGFR (p=0.04) and between hs-cTNT >5.0 ng/L and time from delivery to blood sample (p=0.001) at the peripartum measurement. Both were associated with the use of oxytocin.

Conclusion

Existing cut-off values for ruling out heart failure (NTproBNP <300 ng/L) and myocardial ischaemia (hs-cTNT <14 ng/L) are applicable during pregnancy and after delivery. Elevated levels mandate further attention on cardiac symptoms and renal function.
Modification of a domiciliary ventilator to increase FiO2: an off-label modification which may be of value in COVID-19
Authors: Mebrate Yoseph , Phillips Steven , Field Debbie , Mumuni Ivy , Josse Paul , Alexander David , Das-Gupta Rishi , Trimlett Richard , Polkey Michael I
Published: October 2020

Although nasal continuous positive airway pressure or non-invasive ventilation is used to manage some patients with acute lung injury due to COVID-19, such patients also demonstrate increased minute ventilation which makes it hard, if the device is used in line with the manufacturer’s instructions, to achieve adequate oxygen delivery. In addition, if a hospital contains many such patients, then it is possible that the oxygen requirements will exceed infrastructure capacity. Here we describe a simple modification of two exemplar ventilators normally used for domiciliary ventilation, which substantially increased the fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) delivered.
Impact of LHC vector boson production in heavy ion collisions on strange PDFs
Authors: Kusina A. , Ježo T. , Clark D. B. , Duwentäster P. , Godat E. , Hobbs T. J. , Kent J. , Klasen M. , Kovařík K. , Lyonnet F. , Muzakka K. F. , Olness F. I. , Schienbein I. , Yu J. Y.
Published: October 2020

The extraction of the strange quark parton distribution function (PDF) poses a long-standing puzzle. Measurements from neutrino-nucleus deep inelastic scattering (DIS) experiments suggest the strange quark is suppressed compared to the light sea quarks, while recent studies of $$W^\pm /Z$$

W
±

/
Z

boson production at the LHC imply a larger strange component at small x values. As the parton flavor determination in the proton depends on nuclear corrections, e.g. from heavy-target DIS, LHC heavy ion measurements can provide a distinct perspective to help clarify this situation. In this investigation we extend the nCTEQ15 nPDFs to study the impact of the LHC proton-lead $$W^\pm /Z$$

W
±

/
Z

production data on both the flavor differentiation and nuclear corrections. This complementary data set provides new insights on both the LHC $$W^\pm /Z$$

W
±

/
Z

proton analyses and the neutrino-nucleus DIS data. We identify these new nPDFs as nCTEQ15WZ. Our calculations are performed using a new implementation of the nCTEQ code (nCTEQ++) based on C++ which enables us to easily interface to external programs such as HOPPET, APPLgrid and MCFM. Our results indicate that, as suggested by the proton data, the small x nuclear strange sea appears larger than previously expected, even when the normalization of the $$W^{\pm }/Z$$

W
±

/
Z

data is accommodated in the fit. Extending the nCTEQ15 analysis to include LHC $$W^\pm /Z$$

W
±

/
Z

data represents an important step as we advance toward the next generation of nPDFs.
Intrinsic resonant enhancement of light by nonlinear vacuum
Authors: Shibata Kazunori
Published: October 2020

In nonlinear electromagnetism in vacuum, a classical electromagnetic wave itself can generate another wave. A classical field can become a source for a nonlinear correction via the polarization and magnetization of vacuum. We elucidate that a resonant generation is intrinsic to the theoretical structure of nonlinear electromagnetism. The resonance can take place when the phases, or the cycles of the source and the nonlinear correction match. We demonstrate two specific systems as examples. For a plane wave and constant fields, nonlinear corrective electromagnetic fields are resonantly enhanced with distance. It is shown in a stationary special solution. For more realistic system, we have considered the case of a standing wave in a cavity with an appropriate initial and boundary conditions. As a result, the corrections are resonantly enhanced with time. The resonance effect in the cavity is shown to be observed more effectively by combining a static magnetic flux density. We have evaluated the resonant effect using concrete parameters of current experiments. The demonstrated resonance can be combined with existing proposals to enable experimental detection of nonlinear optical effects of vacuum easier.

Graphical abstract
Effect of porewater pressure on the mechanical properties of red sandstone with different unloading rates
Authors: Ren Jian-Xi , Chen Xu , Chen Xing-Zhou , Yun Meng-Chen , Cao Xi-TaiLang , Liu Tian-Tian
Published: October 2020

The red sandstone in the Luohe Formation in Shaanxi Province, China, contains a rich aquifer system. The excavation of coal mines and tunnels through the Luohe Formation affects the mechanical properties of the rocks in the surrounding environment, creating the need to determine the effect of the porewater pressure and unloading rate on the mechanical properties of the red sandstone. Using the constant axial pressure unloading method, triaxial unloading tests were performed under different unloading rates (0.1, 0.3 and 0.6 MPa s
−1
and porewater pressure conditions (0, 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0 MPa). Based on the results, an unloading statistical damage model of red sandstone was established under the impacts of unloading rate and porewater pressure. During the loading stage, as the porewater pressure increased, the slope of the stress–strain curve and elastic modulus gradually decreased. During the unloading stage, lateral deformation larger than the axial deformation was observed owing to the influence of porewater pressure. The porewater pressure effect became significant as the unloading rate decreased. An increase in porewater pressure or a decrease in the unloading rate increased the confining strain flexibility. Unloading failure of rock samples was dominated by tensile shear failure, thus indicating that a faster unloading rate or larger porewater pressure causes more tensile cracks and severe fracture in the rock samples.
ICER 2020 retrospective
Authors: Moskal Adon , Robins Anthony , Ko Amy , McCauley Renee
Published: October 2020

The 16th International Computing Education Research (ICER) conference was held from 10-14 August 2020 in cyberspace. Sadly, the global pandemic meant we were unable to physically host the conference in Dunedin, New Zealand as planned; but, looking at the situation as a "glass half full" kind of thing, we embraced the opportunity to experiment with a new online format, and try out several new ideas for engaging the ICER community. And we are pleased to report that the event surpassed our modest expectations: we entertained 319 attendees, the highest attendance for an ICER ever!
As a CS educator, how do you think we can address inequity issues that exist in the field?
Authors: Miller Jeffrey , Davis Karen C. , White Shana V. , Parke Robert
Published: October 2020

We asked several CS education researchers to offer brief remarks (about 200 words) to spark discussion and provide ideas for actions we can all take to address inequity issues. Two responses are included below.
Epithelial Stem and Progenitor Cells in Lung Repair and Regeneration
Authors: Alysandratos Konstantinos-Dionysios , Herriges Michael J. , Kotton Darrell N.
Published: October 2020

The mammalian lung epithelium is composed of a wide array of specialized cells that have adapted to survive environmental exposure and perform the tasks necessary for respiration. Although the majority of these cells are remarkably quiescent during adult lung homeostasis, a growing body of literature has demonstrated the capacity of these epithelial lineages to proliferate in response to injury and regenerate lost or damaged cells. In this review, we focus on the regionally distinct lung epithelial cell types that contribute to repair after injury, and we address current controversies regarding whether elite stem cells or frequent facultative progenitors are the predominant participants. We also shed light on the newly emerging approaches for exogenously generating similar lung epithelial lineages from pluripotent stem cells.
Mitochondrial dysfunction and the AKI-to-CKD transition
Authors: Jiang Mingzhu , Bai Mi , Lei Juan , Xie Yifan , Xu Shuang , Jia Zhanjun , Zhang Aihua
Published: October 2020

Acute kidney injury (AKI) has been widely recognized as an important risk factor for the occurrence and development of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Even milder AKI has adverse consequences and could progress to renal fibrosis, which is the ultimate common pathway for various terminal kidney diseases. Thus, it is urgent to develop a strategy to hinder the transition from AKI to CKD. Some mechanisms of the AKI-to-CKD transition have been revealed, such as nephron loss, cell cycle arrest, persistent inflammation, endothelial injury with vascular rarefaction, and epigenetic changes. Previous studies have elucidated the pivotal role of mitochondria in acute injuries and demonstrated that the fitness of this organelle is a major determinant in both the pathogenesis and recovery of organ function. Recent research has suggested that damage to mitochondrial function in early AKI is a crucial factor leading to tubular injury and persistent renal insufficiency. Dysregulation of mitochondrial homeostasis, alterations in bioenergetics, and organelle stress cross talk contribute to the AKI-to-CKD transition. In this review, we focus on the pathophysiology of mitochondria in renal recovery after AKI and progression to CKD, confirming that targeting mitochondria represents a potentially effective therapeutic strategy for the progression of AKI to CKD.
Nonlinear Determination Method for Self-Heating Initiative Temperature of Sulfide Ores
Authors: Jin Huimin , Pan Wei , Shen Xue , Cheng Shuangyi
Published: October 2020

The purpose of this article is to explore a new method to determine the self-heating initiative temperature of sulfide ores for preventing spontaneous combustion of sulfide ores. Two typical ore samples with self-heating characteristics are studied by wavelet transform, recursive graph analysis, Hurst index extraction, and approximate entropy detection. On this basis, self-heating initiative temperature of sulfide ores was measured. The results indicate that the Hurst index of both ore samples in the experiment is greater than 0.5; moreover, the Hurst index in the later period of the experiment is greater than that of the earlier period. The self-heating of sulfide ores is an unsteady process with positive persistence and obvious mutation, so the possibility of self-heating of sulfide ores can be determined according to the change characteristics of Hurst index. The mutation times of the two samples are 864 min and 819 min, respectively, reference values of self-heating initiative temperature are 219.4°C and 232.3°C, and the average relative error is only 1.49%, which are in good agreement with the measured values, and therefore, it provides basis for safety production of high-sulfur ore mine.
Study on the Different Effects of Power and Trailer Wheelsets on Wheel Polygonal Wear
Authors: Zhao X. N. , Chen G. X. , Huang Z. Y. , Xia C. G.
Published: October 2020

The wheels of power and trailer wheelset show different polygonal characteristics since their structures are obviously different. Therefore, the frictional self-excited vibration models of wheelset-track systems are established based on the viewpoint of the frictional self-excited vibration in reducing the wheel polygonal wear. Then, the motion stability of wheelset-track systems is studied by using the complex eigenvalue method. The results show that when the creep force between the wheel and rail is saturated, the unstable vibration frequency of the power wheelset is prone to induce 19-20th-order polygonal wear of the wheel, and the trailer wheelset is prone to induce 20-21th-order polygonal wear of the wheel. Meanwhile, the wheel polygonal wear can be effectively alleviated through changing the gearbox position of the power wheelset. And avoiding disc braking at high speeds can suppress the occurrence of wheel polygonal wear. In addition, the development tendency of wheel polygonal wear can be reduced by increasing the Young’s modulus of the brake pad, but Poisson’s ratio has little effect on the development tendency.
The High Prevalence of Negative Hepatitis B Surface Antibody (Anti-HBs) among Pregnant Women in Bandung, Indonesia: A Community-Based Study
Authors: Girawan Dolvy , Judistiani Raden T. D. , Risan Nelly A. , Bestari Muhammad B. , Nugraha Eka S. , Ermaya Yudith S. , Prasetyo Dwi
Published: October 2020

Background. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a disease that creates a high global burden by affecting approximately 3.5% of the total world population. The main transmission of this disease is from mother to child (MTCT). HBV vaccination program was already initiated in Indonesia in 1987. However, after three decades, the HBV infection prevalence stays stagnant. This study aimed to explore the seroprevalence of HBV markers and the attributable risk factors of pregnant women at risk of transmitting HBV to their offspring. Method. A cross-sectional study was conducted on pregnant women from primary midwifery and obstetric clinics across Bandung, Indonesia, to assess the HBsAg, anti-HBc, and anti-HBs serological markers. Questionnaire-based interviews were used to obtain the sociodemographic determinants. Logistic regression was applied to assess the association of each determinant factor to positive HBsAg or negative anti-HBs as a dependent variable, which was then reported as odds ratios (OR). Results. A total of 196 subjects were recruited with 12/196 (6.1%) of them were positive HBsAg. After exclusions of those with positive HBsAg and anti-HBc, 24/175 (13.7%) women were isolated as positive anti-HBs, leaving 151/175 (86.3%) women with negative anti-HBs who were susceptible to HBV infection. Low body mass index (BMI) less than 18.5 kg/m2 was a risk factor for positive HBsAg with

OR
=
5.850

(95% CI 1.466-23.34),

p
=
0.012

. Nevertheless, no significant determinant factor was associated with negative anti-HBs. Conclusion. Most pregnant women in Bandung, Indonesia, are susceptible to HBV infection, as marked by the negative anti-HBs status.
The State of the Nitric Oxide Cycle in Respiratory Tract Diseases
Authors: Soodaeva Svetlana , Klimanov Igor , Kubysheva Nailya , Popova Nataliia , Batyrshin Ildar
Published: October 2020

This review describes the unique links of the functioning of the nitric oxide cycle in the respiratory tract in normal and pathological conditions. The concept of a nitric oxide cycle has been expanded to include the NO-synthase and NO-synthase-independent component of its synthesis and the accompanying redox cascades in varying degrees of reversible reactions. The role of non-NO-synthase cycle components has been shown. Detailed characteristics of substrates for the synthesis of nitric oxide (NO) in the human body, which can be nitrogen oxides, nitrite and nitrate anions, and organic nitrates, as well as nitrates and nitrites of food products, are given. The importance of the human microbiota in the nitric oxide cycle has been shown. The role of significant components of nitrite and nitrate reductase systems in the nitric oxide cycle and the mechanisms of their activation and deactivation (participation of enzymes, cofactors, homeostatic indicators, etc.) under various conditions have been determined. Consideration of these factors allows for a detailed understanding of the mechanisms underlying pathological conditions of the respiratory system and the targeting of therapeutic agents. The complexity of the NO cycle with multidirectional cascades could be best understood using dynamic modeling.
A Three-Dimensional Complex Measurement Model-Based Avionic Radio-Frequency Power Source Health Assessment Method
Authors: Huo Lin , Li Shiqi , Fei Simiao , Lyu Chuan
Published: October 2020

Health assessment is an important part of PHM technology, which is crucial to product state monitoring and management. With the complexity of product structure and diversification of functions, the product health presents uncertainty under the complex influence of multiple factors. Nowadays, the general health assessment method is relatively simple and only considers the product function completeness, and the assessment effect accuracy still needs to be strengthened in the actual working environment. Most assessment parameters and assessment methods are selected ignoring the impact of environmental changes and operating time performance. Therefore, a new health measurement method for the avionic radio-frequency power source based on a three-dimensional complex measurement model is proposed. Firstly, the product health definition is proposed, and the health connotation is analyzed from three-dimensional aspects containing functional integrity, environmental adaptability, and temporal sustainability. According to the function and structure characteristics of radio-frequency power source, the health characterization parameters are then obtained and the health assessment parameter system is established. Finally, the three-dimensional complex measurement model is given, and the RF power source health assessment is carried out comprehensively from integrity, stability, and reliability aspects. The three-dimensional health assessment method provides a new way to solve the uncertainty of product health state under multiple factor effects, which is conducive to the targeted optimization management strategy.
Modified Three-Term Liu–Storey Conjugate Gradient Method for Solving Unconstrained Optimization Problems and Image Restoration Problems
Authors: Wu Yulun , Zhang Mengxiang , Li Yan
Published: October 2020

A new three-term conjugate gradient method is proposed in this article. The new method was able to solve unconstrained optimization problems, image restoration problems, and compressed sensing problems. The method is the convex combination of the steepest descent method and the classical LS method. Without any linear search, the new method has sufficient descent property and trust region property. Unlike previous methods, the information for the function

f

x

is assigned to

d

k

. Next, we make some reasonable assumptions and establish the global convergence of this method under the condition of using the modified Armijo line search. The results of subsequent numerical experiments prove that the new algorithm is more competitive than other algorithms and has a good application prospect.
On the Detection of a Non-Cooperative Beam Signal Based on Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Wei Guofeng , Zhang Bangning , Ding Guoru , Zhao Bing , Guo Kefeng , Guo Daoxing
Published: October 2020

With the extensive research of multiantenna technology, beamforming (BF) will play an important role in the future communication systems due to its high transmission gain and satisfying directivity. If we can detect the non-cooperative beams, it is of great significance in counter reconnaissance, beam tracking, and spectrum sensing of multiantenna transmitters. This paper investigates the wireless sensor networks (WSNs), which is used to detect the unknown non-cooperative beam signal. In order to perceive the presence of beam signals without the prior information, we first derive the detection probability based on the sensors’ received signal strength (RSS). Then, based on the strong directivity of the beam signal, we propose an improved “k rank” fusion algorithm by jointly exploiting the energy detection (ED) information and location information of the sensors. Finally, the beam detection performance of different fusion algorithms is compared in simulation, and we find that our proposed algorithm showed better detection probability and lower error probability. The simulation results verify the correctness and effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
Generation of Insulin-Producing Cells from Canine Adipose Tissue-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Teshima Takahiro , Okamoto Keiji , Dairaku Kazuho , Nagashima Tomokazu , Michishita Masaki , Suzuki Ryohei , Matsumoto Hirotaka , Koyama Hidekazu
Published: October 2020

The potential of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to differentiate into nonmesodermal cells such as pancreatic beta cells has been reported. New cell-based therapy using MSCs for diabetes mellitus is anticipated as an alternative treatment option to insulin injection or islet transplantation in both human and veterinary medicine. Several protocols were reported for differentiation of MSCs into insulin-producing cells (IPCs), but no studies have reported IPCs generated from canine MSCs. The purpose of this study was to generate IPCs from canine adipose tissue-derived MSCs (AT-MSCs) in vitro and to investigate the effects of IPC transplantation on diabetic mice in vivo. Culturing AT-MSCs with the differentiation protocol under a two-dimensional culture system did not produce IPCs. However, spheroid-like small clusters consisting of canine AT-MSCs and human recombinant peptide μ-pieces developed under a three-dimensional (3D) culture system were successfully differentiated into IPCs. The generated IPCs under 3D culture condition were stained with dithizone and anti-insulin antibody. Canine IPCs also showed gene expression typical for pancreatic beta cells and increased insulin secretion in response to glucose stimulation. The blood glucose levels in streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice were decreased after injection with the supernatant of canine IPCs, but the hyperglycemic states of diabetic mice were not improved after transplanting IPCs subcutaneously or intramesenterically. The histological examination showed that the transplanted small clusters of IPCs were successfully engrafted to the mice and included cells positive for insulin by immunofluorescence. Several factors, such as the transplanted cell number, the origin of AT-MSCs, and the differentiation protocol, were considered potential reasons for the inability to improve the hyperglycemic state after IPC transplantation. These findings suggest that canine AT-MSCs can be differentiated into IPCs under a 3D culture system and IPC transplantation may be a new treatment option for dogs with diabetes mellitus.
Evaluation of Water Diffusion Mechanism on Mechanical Properties of Polypropylene Composites
Authors: Balogun Oluwayomi Peter , Adediran Adeolu Adesoji , Omotoyinbo Joseph Ajibade , Alaneme Kenneth Kanayo , Oladele Isiaka Oluwole
Published: October 2020

This study evaluates the water diffusion mechanism on mechanical properties of polypropylene reinforced composites. Compounding of the composites into sheets was carried out using the compression moulding techniques by incorporating varying weight percentage of fibers and polypropylene. Mechanical properties of the composites were assessed according to ASTM standards, while the composite fracture surface was examined using a scanning electron microscope. The water absorption behaviour and diffusion mechanisms on mechanical properties of fabricated composites were analysed using a water immersion test and the Fickian diffusion model. The results show that mechanical properties of all polypropylene reinforced composites under dry condition was higher than wet condition. The composites reinforced with 7 wt.% (KOH and NaOH) fibers follow a consistent trend and gave the highest tensile strength and tensile modulus in comparison with pure PP (polypropylene). Addition of fibers into the polypropylene matrix gradually decreases composites impact strength with exception to 3 wt.% and 5 wt.% composites. The hardness properties of reinforced composites were steadily increased as the fiber loading increases which signify strong fiber-matrix bonding. The percentage of water absorbed for all reinforced composites increased as the fiber weight increases and slowly flattened off after 10 days of saturation. The morphological study revealed fiber pullout and delamination of reinforced composites attributed to poor fiber-matrix adhesion amount to water intake. The diffusion transport mechanism of polypropylene composites was observed to obey the Fickian diffusion model.
Study on Calculation of Bearing Capacity of Axially Loaded CFRP‐Strengthened Cold‐Formed Thin‐Walled Lipped Channel Steel Columns
Authors: Sun Yanan , Li Pengfei , Qin Guojin
Published: October 2020

With the development of carbon fiber reinforced composites and the continuous improvement of the properties of bonding agents, scholars recommended using carbon fiber reinforced plastics (CFRP) to enhance cold‐formed thin‐walled C‐shaped steel structures. It can provide a fast and effective way to strengthen and repair damaged steel structures. However, discussion on the bearing capacity calculation of cold‐formed thin‐walled C‐section steel column strengthened by CFRP was limited. Also, the relevant influencing factors (the number of CFRP reinforcement layers), the orientation of CFRP (horizontal, vertical), and the location of CFRP reinforcement (web + flanges + lips, web + flanges, web, and flanges) were overlooked in calculating the bearing capacity of cold‐formed thin‐walled C‐section steel column strengthened by CFRP. Then, the calculation result of the load capacity will be inaccurate. This work, therefore, studied the effects of CFRP reinforcement layers, CFRP direction, and CFRP reinforcement position on the ultimate load of CFRP‐strengthened cold‐formed thin‐walled C‐section steel column. A three‐dimensional (3D) finite element model of cold‐formed thin‐walled steel strengthened by CFRP was established to discuss the bearing capacity under axial compression. Furthermore, a method for calculating the bearing capacity of the CFRP‐strengthened cold‐formed thin‐walled C‐section steel column was proposed based on the direct strength methods (DSM). The results indicate that not only the slenderness ratio, section size, and length of members but also the number of CFRP reinforcement layers and orientation of CFRP have an impact on the calculation of bearing capacity. The equation modified in this work has excellent accuracy and adaptability. Predicting the bearing capacity of reinforced members is necessary to give full play to the performance of CFRP accurately. Thus, the methods proposed can provide a reference value for practical engineering.
Nanoengineered Disruption of Heat Shock Protein 90 Targets Drug-Induced Resistance and Relieves Natural Killer Cell Suppression in Breast Cancer
Authors: Smalley Munisha , Natarajan Siva Kumar , Mondal Jayanta , Best Douglas , Goldman David , Shanthappa Basavaraja , Pellowe Moriah , Dash Chinmayee , Saha Tanmoy , Khiste Sachin , Ramadurai Nithya , Eton Elliot O. , Smalley Joshua L. , Brown Andrew , Thayakumar Allen , Rahman Mamunur , Arai Kazuya , Kohandel Mohammad , Sengupta Shiladitya , Goldman Aaron
Published: October 2020

Drug-induced resistance, or tolerance, is an emerging yet poorly understood failure of anticancer therapy. The interplay between drug-tolerant cancer cells and innate immunity within the tumor, the consequence on tumor growth, and therapeutic strategies to address these challenges remain undescribed. Here, we elucidate the role of taxane-induced resistance on natural killer (NK) cell tumor immunity in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) and the design of spatiotemporally controlled nanomedicines, which boost therapeutic efficacy and invigorate “disabled” NK cells. Drug tolerance limited NK cell immune surveillance via drug-induced depletion of the NK-activating ligand receptor axis, NK group 2 member D, and MHC class I polypeptide-related sequence A, B. Systems biology supported by empirical evidence revealed the heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) simultaneously controls immune surveillance and persistence of drug-treated tumor cells. On the basis of this evidence, we engineered a “chimeric” nanotherapeutic tool comprising taxanes and a cholesterol-tethered Hsp90 inhibitor, radicicol, which targets the tumor, reduces tolerance, and optimally reprimes NK cells via prolonged induction of NK-activating ligand receptors via temporal control of drug release in vitro and in vivo. A human ex vivo TNBC model confirmed the importance of NK cells in drug-induced death under pressure of clinically approved agents. These findings highlight a convergence between drug-induced resistance, the tumor immune contexture, and engineered approaches that consider the tumor and microenvironment to improve the success of combinatorial therapy.

Significance:

This study uncovers a molecular mechanism linking drug-induced resistance and tumor immunity and provides novel engineered solutions that target these mechanisms in the tumor and improve immunity, thus mitigating off-target effects.
Emerging Role of the NLRP3 Inflammasome and Interleukin-1β in Neonates
Authors: Omer Murwan , Melo Ashanty Maggvie , Kelly Lynne , Mac Dermott Emma Jane , Leahy Timothy Ronan , Killeen Orla , Saugstad Ola Didrik , Savani Rashmin C. , Molloy Eleanor J.
Published: October 2020

Infection and persistent inflammation have a prominent role in the pathogenesis of brain injury and cerebral palsy, as well as other conditions associated with prematurity such as bronchopulmonary dysplasia. The NLRP3 inflammasome-interleukin (IL)-1β pathway has been extensively studied in adults and pre-clinical models, improving our understanding of innate immunity and offering an attractive therapeutic target that is already contributing to clinical management in many auto-inflammatory disorders. IL-1 blockade has transformed the course and outcome of conditions such as chronic infantile neurological, cutaneous, articular (CINCA/NOMID) syndrome. Inflammasome activation and upregulation has recently been implicated in neonatal brain and lung inflammatory disease and may be a novel therapeutic target.