bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Blue Light and Photosensitizers on Cutibacterium acnes on Shoulder Periprosthetic Joint Infection Isolates
Authors: Bhargava Swati , Listopadzki Thomas , Diletti Sara , Crane John K. , Duquin Thomas R. , Boyle K. Keely
Published: July 2020

Abstract. Introduction:
Cutibacterium acnes is gaining recognition as a leading pathogen after orthopaedic shoulder procedures. Photodynamic therapy, a combination of light and a photosensitizer, has demonstrated antimicrobial activity against C. acnes in the treatment of acne vulgaris. We sought to evaluate the effect of photodynamic therapy using blue light and photosensitizers on C. acnes isolates from shoulder prosthetic joint infections.Methods:
C. acnes strains isolated from 19 patients with shoulder PJI were exposed to blue light alone (415 nm) or in combination with photosensitizers (fluorescein, riboflavin and demeclocycline). C. acnes strains were divided into 4 categories: Highly Sensitive (HS), Sensitive (S), Weakly Sensitive (WS), Resistant to blue light.Results: 13 of 19 C. acnes strains (68%) were S or HS to blue light alone. Of these 19 strains tested, 11 were tested with blue light and fluorescein or blue light plus riboflavin. Fluorescein (1 µg/mL) enhanced the effect of blue light in 6 of 11 strains (55%). Blue light plus riboflavin (10 µg/mL) resulted enhanced killing in 3 of 11 strains (27%), but produced a paradoxical photoprotective effect in 4 of 11 strains (36%), resulting in a net decrease compared to blue light alone. Demeclocycline, however, enhanced the effect of blue light in 16 of 17 strains (94 %).Conclusions: Blue light with the addition of photosensitizers killed C. acnes from periprosthetic shoulder infections in vitro, with demeclocycline having the most pronounced effect.
Systematic and biostratigraphy of the genera Parasolenopleura, Badulesia, and Pardailhania in the Iberian Chains: a useful zonation for the Miaolingian Series (former middle Cambrian) in the Mediterranean region
Authors: Chirivella Martorell Juan B. , Liñán Eladio , Dies Álvarez Mª Eugenia , Gozalo Rodolfo
Published: July 2020

The trilobite species of three genera included in the Family Solenopleuridae: Parasolenopleura, Badulesia, and Pardailhania are revised. These genera have a great biostratigraphic interest due to their broad distribution in the Miaolingian Series (former middle Cambrian) of the Mediterranean Subprovince and because they constitute an evolutionary lineage, that facilitates an accurate regional correlation. Two of these genera (Pardailhania and Badulesia) have been used to define middle Cambrian zones in Spain (lower and middle Caesaraugustan, equivalent to the uppermost Wuliuan and the lower Drumian stages). Although, all authors have been using the same species to establish the Mediterranean biozonation of this interval time, the zone concept has been modified since Sdzuy’s original idea. A thorough study of three localities from the Iberian Chains (Murero, Jarque, and Villafeliche) have allowed us to revise the lower and middle Caesaraugustan zonation in the Iberian Chains and for extension, in the Mediterranean region by comparison with the other localities where those genera are recorded. We propose now a review zonation based on trilobite phylozones, including new stratigraphic and systematic data from the Iberian Chains in order to clarify the intercontinental correlation of this time interval
¿Indígena campesino o indígena urbano? Aproximaciones desde los procesos de movilidad mapuche en la ciudad intermedia de Temuco (Chile)
Authors: Salazar Gonzalo , Riquelme Maulén Wladimir , Zúñiga Becerra Paulina
Published: July 2020

The article aims to examine relevant aspects of “being an indigenous peasant in the city” through mobility processes. It attends practices and meanings of Mapuche mobility that connect the city of Temuco and its surrounding towns of Maquehue and Labranza (La Araucanía Region, Chile), both with a substantial number of indigenous communities. We identify that the dichotomy between being an indigenous peasant and an indigenous city dweller requires a theoretical turn that contextualizes the spaces in which the indigenous population lives and moves. The present work examines the processes of Mapuche mobility by integrating ethnographic instruments (ethnographic observation and in-depth interviews) and mobile methods. We record the passenger flows on public transport in the urban-territorial system in Temuco and apply the shading technique to the Mapuche during their daily movements. This combined methodology, defined as an ethnography on the move, is sustained by an interdisciplinary articulation between anthropology and geography that illustrates the processes of peasant Mapuche mobility in connection with the city. Three approaches arise to support the results: spatialities, temporalities, and identities. Mobility processes make it possible to understand the meaning of being an indigenous peasant in the city, thereby transcending the urban-rural dichotomy that has prevailed in indigenous studies. The article focuses on the socio-spatial dynamics of the indigenous peasant through mobility processes via an innovative methodology that articulates ethnographic and socio-spatial data that can transcend the prevailing static and dualistic lens through which indigenous populations have been studied.
Receptor-driven, multimodal mapping of cortical areas in the macaque monkey intraparietal sulcus
Authors: Niu Meiqi , Impieri Daniele , Rapan Lucija , Funck Thomas , Palomero-Gallagher Nicola , Zilles Karl
Published: July 2020

The intraparietal sulcus (IPS) is structurally and functionally heterogeneous. We performed a quantitative cyto-/myelo- and receptor architectonical analysis to provide a multimodal map of the macaque IPS. We identified 17 cortical areas, including novel areas PEipe, PEipi (external and internal subdivisions of PEip), and MIPd. Multivariate analyses of receptor densities resulted in a grouping of areas based on the degree of (dis)similarity of their receptor architecture: a cluster encompassing areas located in the posterior portion of the IPS and associated mainly with the processing of visual information, a cluster including areas found in the anterior portion of the IPS and involved in sensorimotor processing, and an ‘intermediate’ cluster of multimodal association areas. Thus, differences in cyto-/myelo- and receptor architecture segregate the cortical ribbon within the IPS, and receptor fingerprints provide novel insights into the relationship between the structural and functional segregation of this brain region in the macaque monkey.
Contextual violence and its link to social aggression: a study of community violence in Juárez
Authors: Martín del Campo-Ríos Jaime , Cruz-Torres Christian Enrique
Published: July 2020

The city of Juárez, Mexico has been immersed in an atmosphere of violence and danger for more than a decade. Due to this violence, residents of Juárez may be at risk of severe contextual victimization, which occurs when individuals are indirectly affected by the physical and socio-cultural conditions of their violent communities through second-hand information (e.g., witnessing or hearing about violent acts in their everyday life). The objective of this study was to explore the effects of contextual victimization on variables related to community violence such as aggression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and acceptance of violence. Data were collected from a sample of university students in Juárez (n = 298) using the Aggression Questionnaire (AQ), the Acceptance of Violence Scale (AVS), Checklist for PTSD Traits scale, and the Contextual Victimization by Community Violence scale (CVCV). Participants’ responses were analyzed in structural equation models (SEM) to uncover the latent variables behind each scale and test the hypothesized effects of CVCV on PTSD, AQ and AVS. Good validity indexes and internal consistency of all instruments were confirmed. SEM show significant positive effects of contextual violence on PTSD and PTSD on the disposition to aggression, but not on the acceptance of violence. Also, the variance explained of PTSD and AQ found in the sample of women (20% of PTSD and 23% of AQ) is almost twice than in men’s sample (9% for PTSD and 14% for AQ).
A dosimetry study of post‐mastectomy radiation therapy with AeroForm tissue expander
Authors: Lim Seng Boh , Kuo Li Cheng , Li Guang , Kuo Hsiang‐Chi , McCormick Beryl , Cahlon Oren , Powell Simon , Hong Linda X.
Published: July 2020

Purpose

To evaluate the dosimetric effects of the AeroFormTM (AirXanpders®, Palo Alto, CA) tissue expander in‐situ for breast cancer patients receiving post‐mastectomy radiation therapy.

Methods and Materials

A film phantom (P1) was constructed by placing the metallic canister of the AeroForm on a solid water phantom with EBT3 films at five depths ranging from 2.6 mm to 66.2 mm. A breast phantom (P2), a three‐dimensional printed tissue‐equivalent breast with fully expanded AeroForm in‐situ, was placed on a thorax phantom. A total of 21 optical luminescent dosimeters (OLSDs) were placed on the anterior skin–gas interface and the posterior chest wall–metal interface of the AeroForm. Both phantoms were imaged with a 16‐bit computed tomography scanner with orthopedic metal artifact reduction. P1 was irradiated with an open field utilizing 6 MV and 15 MV photon beams at 0°, 90°, and 270°. P2 was irradiated using a volumetric modulated arc therapy plan with a 6 MV photon beam and a tangential plan with a 15 MV photon beam. All doses were calculated using Eclipse (Varian, Palo Alto, CA) with AAA and AcurosXB (AXB) algorithms.

Results

The average dose differences between film measurements and AXB in the region adjacent to the canister in P1 were within 3.1% for 15 MV and 0.9% for 6 MV. Local dose differences over 10% were also observed. In the chest wall region of P2, the median dose of OLSDs in percentage of prescription dose were 108.4% (range 95.4%–113.0%) for the 15MV tangential plan and 110.4% (range 99.1%–113.8%) for the 6MV volumetric modulated arc therapy plan. In the skin–gas interface, the median dose of the OLSDs were 102.3% (range 92.7%–107.7%) for the 15 MV plan and 108.2% (range 97.8–113.5%) for the 6 MV plan. Measured doses were, in general, higher than calculated doses with AXB calculations. The AAA dose algorithms produced results with slightly larger discrepancies between measurements compared with AXB.

Conclusions

The AeroForm creates significant dose uncertainties in the chest wall–metal interface. The AcurosXB dose calculation algorithm is recommended for more accurate calculations. If possible, post‐mastectomy radiation therapy should be delivered after the permanent implant is in place.
Mapping Eco‐social Assets
Authors: Hatleskog Eli
Published: July 2020

Cartography is a very powerful tool. Maps can reveal hidden potential, redefine the hierarchy of knowledge, and provoke social change. Guest‐ Editor Eli Hatleskog describes how at Reading University, the Department of Architecture's Mapping Eco Social Assets (MESA) strategies have provoked ideas for improvements to the city, but have also stressed the importance of focal buildings such as schools and places of worship that generate community cohesion.
Greenkeeper: Establishing the Full Value of Green
Authors: Montgomery Jenni
Published: July 2020

We know that exposure to green space can make us happier, but how do we qualify its benefits? Jenni Montgomery, business development director at planning and design consultancy Barton Willmore, explains the practice's co‐creation of Greenkeeper, a data‐driven software tool that makes visual the use and specific societal advantages of existing green space, but also can be used projectively to posit new green spaces in urban areas.
Walk With Us: The Architecture of Reconciliation
Authors: Hinds Mat
Published: July 2020

Krakani lumi is a small ecotourism development on a site of deep cultural importance to the Aboriginal people of Tasmania. It is a vehicle for land return, conceived as a place of restful calm to contemplate the landscape and partake in its rituals. Architect Mat Hinds describes its architectural constitution and spatial significance as a place of reconciliation for both Aboriginal and non‐Aboriginal communities alike.
An Iron‐Decorated Carbon Aerogel for Rechargeable Flow and Flexible Zn–Air Batteries
Authors: Wu Kunze , Zhang Lei , Yuan Yifei , Zhong Linxin , Chen Zhongxin , Chi Xiao , Lu Hao , Chen Zehong , Zou Ren , Li Tingzhen , Jiang Chengyu , Chen Yongkang , Peng Xinwen , Lu Jun
Published: July 2020

Mechanically stable and foldable air cathodes with exceptional oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) activities are key components of wearable metal–air batteries. Herein, a directional freeze‐casting and annealing approach is reported for the construction of a 3D honeycomb nanostructured, N,P‐doped carbon aerogel incorporating in situ grown FeP/Fe2O3 nanoparticles as the cathode in a flexible Zn–air battery (ZAB). The aqueous rechargeable Zn–air batteries assembled with this carbon aerogel exhibit a remarkable specific capacity of 648 mAh g−1 at a current density of 20 mA cm−2 with a good long‐term durability, outperforming those assembled with commercial Pt/C+RuO2 catalyst. Furthermore, such a foldable carbon aerogel with directional channels can serve as a freestanding air cathode for flexible solid‐state Zn–air batteries without the use of carbon paper/cloth and additives, giving a specific capacity of 676 mAh g−1 and an energy density of 517 Wh kg−1 at 5 mA cm−2 together with good cycling stability. This work offers a new strategy to design and synthesize highly effective bifunctional air cathodes to be applied in electrochemical energy devices.
In Operando GISAXS and GIWAXS Stability Study of Organic Solar Cells Based on PffBT4T‐2OD:PC71BM with and without Solvent Additive
Authors: Yang Dan , Löhrer Franziska C. , Körstgens Volker , Schreiber Armin , Cao Bing , Bernstorff Sigrid , Müller‐Buschbaum Peter
Published: July 2020

Solvent additives are known to modify the morphology of bulk heterojunction active layers to achieve high efficiency organic solar cells. However, the knowledge about the influence of solvent additives on the morphology degradation is limited. Hence, in operando grazing‐incidence small and wide angle X‐ray scattering (GISAXS and GIWAXS) measurements are applied on a series of PffBT4T‐2OD:PC71BM‐based solar cells prepared without and with solvent additives. The solar cells fabricated without a solvent additive, with 1,8‐diiodoctane (DIO), and with o‐chlorobenzaldehyde (CBA) additive show differences in the device degradation and changes in the morphology and crystallinity of the active layers. The mesoscale morphology changes are correlated with the decay of the short‐circuit current Jsc and the evolution of crystalline grain sizes is codependent with the decay of open‐circuit voltage Voc. Without additive, the loss in Jsc dominates the degradation, whereas with solvent additive (DIO and CBA) the loss in Voc rules the degradation. CBA addition increases the overall device stability as compared to DIO or absence of additive.
Scholarship for Social Change: Reflections of an Accidental Academic
Authors: Bond Meg A.
Published: July 2020

In this article, I describe how I stumbled my way into an academic career doing research to promote social change toward greater equity and inclusion. I reflect on how my path has been informed by my own experiences with harassment, marginalization, and privilege. These reflections build upon the belief that we are all informed by our histories, vantage points, and social locations and that those forces shape the questions we ask, the way we ask them, how and where we look for evidence, and what we do with the results once we get them. My diverse, urban high school experience combined with my circuitous educational path did not portend great potential to become an academic. I describe experiences that expanded my awareness and opened up opportunities to grow and expand upon my role as an activist scholar. Through examples from my own work, I explore three possible functions of research that can contribute to social change: (a) NAMING, which leads to awareness, recognition, and engagement; (b) FRAMING, which expands our view beyond the moment and specific instances and leads to the identification and disruption of constraining contextual circumstances and assumptions; and (c) CATALYZING action, which builds momentum and promotes capacity for action.
A prognostic model for overall survival in sporadic Creutzfeldt‐Jakob disease
Authors: Llorens Franc , Rübsamen Nicole , Hermann Peter , Schmitz Matthias , Villar‐Piqué Anna , Goebel Stefan , Karch André , Zerr Inga
Published: July 2020

Introduction

We developed a prognostic model for overall survival after diagnosis of sporadic Creutzfeldt‐Jakob disease (sCJD) using data from a German surveillance study.

Methods

We included 1226 sCJD cases (median age 66 years, range 19–89 years; 56.8% women with information on age, sex, codon 129 genotype, 14‐3‐3 in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and CSF tau concentrations. The prognostic accuracy for overall survival was measured by the c statistics of multivariable Cox proportional hazard models. A score chart was derived to predict 6‐month survival and median survival time.

Results

A model containing age, sex, codon 129 genotype, and CSF tau (with two‐way interactions) was selected as the model with the highest c statistic (0.686, 95% confidence interval: 0.665–0.707) in a cross‐validation approach.

Discussion

We developed the first prognostic model for overall survival of sCJD patients based on readily available information only. The developed score chart serves as a hands‐on prediction tool for clinical practice.
Euphorbia polygonifolia extract assisted biosynthesis of Fe3O4@CuO nanoparticles: Applications in the removal of metronidazole, ciprofloxacin and cephalexin antibiotics from aqueous solutions under UV irradiation
Authors: Pakzad Khatereh , Alinezhad Heshmatollah , Nasrollahzadeh Mahmoud
Published: July 2020

In this study, a new, economical and green method was reported for synthesizing Fe3O4@CuO nanoparticles without adding any surfactants using Euphorbia polygonifolia extract as a renewable, mild and safe reducing agent and effective stabilizer. The green synthesized NPs were analyzed by various methods such as XRD, FESEM, FT‐IR, EDS, VSM, UV–visible, DRS, BET and TGA‐DTA. Based on the BET analysis, the Fe3O4@CuO NP had a surface area of 69.20 m2/g. The FTIR analysis verified the existence of different functional groups of phytochemicals from Euphorbia polygonifolia extract which were accountable for the NPs formation. The catalytic performance of the catalyst for the degradation of metronidazole, ciprofloxacin and cephalexin antibiotics was examined in aqueous mediums at room temperature. The results showed an extraordinary catalytic performance, easy reusability and long‐term stability of the composite for reducing antibiotic pollution. In this process, the effects of environmental conditions such as initial pH of the environment, initial concentration of antibiotics, the concentration of modified photocatalyst and reaction time were studied. According to the results, at the optimal conditions, the highest removal efficiency for metronidazole, ciprofloxacin and cephalexin antibiotics using Fe3O4@CuO nanoparticles, were 89%, 94%, and 96%, respectively. Also, it was observed that even after recycling, the NPs presents good nanocatalytic stability for the degradation of antibiotics. Using the NPs for five cycles did not significantly alter the photocatalyst efficiency, showing that the photocatalytic stability of the NPs was excellent.
Gelatin micro‐ and nanocapsules obtained via sonochemical method
Authors: Yankova Iveta , Shestakova Pavletta , Reis Rui L. , Pashkuleva Iva , Vassileva Elena
Published: July 2020

Gelatin capsules (GCs) with mean size between 200 and 400 nm are prepared via sonochemical method. Their size is low that the usual size for the sonochemically obtained protein capsules and depends on the preparation conditions. The nanometer size of GCs is explained by the low‐gelatin concentration and by the denaturated state of gelatin. The influence of pH, sonication time, and temperature on GCs size is investigated. An increase in temperature and sonication time results into GCs size increase. The pH dependence of GCs size passes through a minimum at the isoelectric point of gelatin. The broad size distribution detected by dynamic light scattering and scanning electron microscopy is explained by the broad molecular weight distribution of gelatin. GCs are successfully applied for encapsulation of two hydrophobic drugs, α‐tocopherol and acetylsalicylic acid, in order to demonstrate the versatility of the sonochemical method for drug encapsulation. In the case of α‐tocopherol drug entrapment efficiency as high as 95% is obtained.
2020 State of the Water Industry: A Glass Half Full
Authors: Flancher Dawn , Chaballa Kathleen
Published: July 2020

Key Takeaways

With 3,351 responses, the 2020 State of the Water Industry survey had the largest participation in the survey's history.

Respondents answered similarly to the previous year's survey but expressed a little more optimism about the present and future state of the sector.

The survey was conducted before the 2020 coronavirus pandemic, and it is uncertain whether perceptions of the water industry will change or be reinforced.
Contextual Engineering Leverages Local Knowledge to Guide Water System Design
Authors: Witmer Ann‐Perry
Published: July 2020

Key Takeaways

The sustainability and durability of drinking water systems is as dependent on an understanding of place and people as it is on technical design.

The “why” of drinking water system operation (context) must precede the “what” and “how” (content) in design.

The expertise of drinking water professionals is only as effective as the awareness they bring to the design of the end‐user experience.
Benchmarking Water and Wastewater Construction Projects Delivered by Design–Bid–Build
Authors: Andary Elie G.
Published: July 2020

Key Takeaways

Performance metrics based on project performance measurement frameworks can be applied to assess design–bid–build (DBB) projects in the water and wastewater sectors.

Benchmarking DBB projects using a performance index helps managers and stakeholders establish guidelines for achieving successful capital project delivery.

Measuring key performance indicators in specific performance categories forms the basis for quantifying success in water and wastewater industry project delivery.
One of the troubles with outcome measures: Lost in translation
Authors: Proctor Gillian , Cahill Jane
Published: July 2020

This paper presents the concerns of a client diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder about completing outcome measures. He was asked to complete CORE‐10 each time he attended a therapy session with the first author. This paper takes an epistemological position of co‐production, and written in response to the client's concerns, but this is limited by the client's wish and capacity to be involved in the writing up of this article. Implications of his experiences are drawn out for both clients with this diagnosis and more generally for all clients. Recommendations are made to recognise the limitations of measures and how to use outcome measures with more validity.
Preparation and characterization of colorful graphene oxide papers and flexible N‐doping graphene papers for supercapacitor and capacitive deionization
Authors: Zhang Hao , Li Aiyang , Yuan Ying , Wei Yuquan , Zheng Di , Geng Zhuning , Zhang Haichuan , Li Guanghe , Zhang Fang
Published: July 2020

An efficient method that utilizes simple techniques, easy operation, and low‐cost production to create flexible graphene‐based materials is a worthy practical challenge. A rapid strategy for preparing flexible, functional graphene oxide (GO) is introduced using GO‐ethanol dispersion filtration. The filtration process is highly efficient and drying time is significantly reduced by employing ethanol as solvent, due to the fact that ethanol is a volatile liquid. Freestanding GO papers can be harvested with ultralarge size (700 cm2), color variety, and writable characteristics. After reduction, N‐doped graphene (NDG) papers still maintain good foldability with improved electric conductivity and porous structure. When used as an electrode for a supercapacitor, the flexible NDG paper device demonstrates good electrochemical performance even with size expansion and extreme double folding. Moreover, this NDG paper capacitor device shows a good electrosorption performance for capacitive deionization of sulfate and chromate in groundwater system. These flexible GO and NDG papers promise potential to facilitate the production of graphene‐based materials for practical applications in energy and environmental related fields.
Carbon‐based cathode materials for rechargeable zinc‐air batteries: From current collectors to bifunctional integrated air electrodes
Authors: Wu Jingkun , Liu Bin , Fan Xiayue , Ding Jia , Han Xiaopeng , Deng Yida , Hu Wenbin , Zhong Cheng
Published: July 2020

Rechargeable zinc‐air batteries (ZABs) have attracted much attention as the next‐generation energy conversion and storage devices due to the abundance and environmental friendliness of zinc (Zn) for anode materials, as well as the safety and low cost of aqueous electrolytes. However, rational design of nonprecious and low‐cost integrated air cathode materials with a desirable bifunctional oxygen electrocatalytic performance remains a great challenge for the commercialization of rechargeable ZABs. In previous research studies, various cost‐effective carbon‐supported electrocatalysts and light‐weight carbon‐based current collectors for air cathodes have been developed, showing vast potential in the application of carbon‐based materials. To improve the bifunctional performance and integration of air cathodes, efforts with respect to the design of morphology, defects, and synergistic effects of carbon‐based materials have been made. In this perspective, the general understanding of the air cathode construction and the battery working mechanism is discussed. The recent progress in the design of carbon‐based materials for air cathodes in rechargeable ZABs is summarized. Several possible future research directions and the expected development trends are also discussed, aiming to facilitate the commercialization of advanced rechargeable ZABs in our life.
Conservative non‐surgical management in medication related osteonecrosis of the jaw: A retrospective study
Authors: Albanese Massimo , Zotti Francesca , Capocasale Giorgia , Bonetti Stefano , Lonardi Fabio , Nocini Pier Francesco
Published: July 2020

Objectives

To date, the best treatment for Medication Related Osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) is controversial. Recent studies suggest different therapies, considering the stage of MRONJ; however, sometimes patients, although with remarkable extension of disease, cannot undergo surgery. The purpose of present preliminary study was to evaluate the efficacy of conservative non‐surgical treatment of MRONJ lesions in a cohort of patients ineligible for surgery or refusing any surgical treatment for stage II and III of MRONJ.

Materials and methods

Patients with MRONJ (staging II or III) ineligible for surgical treatment were selected for a retrospective study. A conservative non‐surgical therapy (antibiotics and antiseptic) was administered for 1 year. Five scheduled checks were performed to assess changes in signs and symptoms during the observational period.

Results

Our observation was carried out on 12 patients. Improvement of signs and symptoms of disease were observed in population.

Conclusion

This study suggests that non‐surgical treatment may be a valid therapeutic option in patients ineligible for surgery. The sample size is small, further studies should be carried out to satisfy the aim of a conservative non‐surgical treatment protocol establishment.
Left atrial strain as sensitive marker of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction in heart failure
Authors: Frydas Athanasios , Morris Daniel A. , Belyavskiy Evgeny , Radhakrishnan Aravind‐Kumar , Kropf Martin , Tadic Marijana , Roessig Lothar , Lam Carolyn S.P. , Shah Sanjiv J. , Solomon Scott D. , Pieske Burkert , Pieske‐Kraigher Elisabeth
Published: July 2020

Aims

The purpose of this retrospective analysis was to examine the association of left atrial (LA) strain (i.e. LA reservoir function) with left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (DD) in patients with heart failure with reduced and preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF).

Methods and results

We analysed the baseline echocardiographic recordings of 300 patients in sinus rhythm from the SOCRATES‐PRESERVED and SOCRATES‐REDUCED studies. LA volume index was normal in 89 (29.7%), of whom 60.6% had an abnormal LA reservoir strain (i.e. ≤23%). In addition, the extent of LA strain impairment was significantly associated with the severity of DD according to the 2016 American Society of Echocardiography recommendations (DD grade I: LA strain 22.2 ± 6.6, rate of abnormal LA strain 62.9%; DD grade II: LA strain 16.6 ± 7.4, rate of abnormal LA strain 88.6%; DD grade III: LA strain 11.1 ± 5.4%, rate of abnormal LA strain 95.7%; all P < 0.01). In line with these findings, LA strain had a good diagnostic performance to determine severe DD [area under the curve 0.83 (95% CI 0.77–0.88), cut‐off 14.1%, sensitivity 80%, specificity 77.8%], which was significantly better than for LA volume index, LA total emptying fraction, and the mitral E/e′ ratio.

Conclusions

The findings of this analysis suggest that LA strain could be a useful parameter in the evaluation of DD in patients with heart failure and sinus rhythm, irrespective of LVEF.
Characteristics and 2‐year outcomes of dabigatran treatment in patients with heart failure and atrial fibrillation: GLORIA‐AF
Authors: Dubner Sergio J. , Teutsch Christine , Huisman Menno V. , Diener Hans‐Christoph , Halperin Jonathan , Rothman Kenneth J. , Ma Chang‐Sheng , Chuquiure‐Valenzuela Eduardo , Bergler‐Klein Jutta , Zint Kristina , Riou França Lionel , Lu Shihai , Paquette Miney , Lip Gregory Y.H.
Published: July 2020

Aims

This study aimed to describe baseline characteristics of patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) at risk of stroke with and without history of heart failure (HF) and report 2‐year outcomes in the dabigatran‐treated subset of a prospective, global, observational study (GLORIA‐AF).

Methods and results

Newly diagnosed patients with AF and CHA2DS2‐VASc score ≥ 1 were consecutively enrolled. Baseline characteristics were assessed by the presence or absence of HF diagnosis at enrolment. Incidence rates for outcomes in dabigatran‐treated patients were estimated with and without standardization by stroke (excluding HF component) and bleeding risk scores. A total of 15 308 eligible patients were enrolled, including 15 154 with known HF status; of these, 3679 (24.0%) had been diagnosed with HF, 11 475 (75.0%) had not. Among 4873 dabigatran‐treated patients, 1169 (24.0%) had HF, and 3658 (75.1%) did not; the risk of stroke was high (CHA2DS2‐VASc score ≥ 2) for 94.3% of patients with HF and 85.8% without, while 6.0% and 7.0%, respectively, had a high bleeding risk (HAS‐BLED ≥ 3). Incidence rates of all‐cause death in dabigatran‐treated patients with and without HF, standardized for CHA2DS2‐VASc and HAS‐BLED scores, were 4.76 vs. 1.80 per 100 patient years (py), with roughly comparable rates of stroke (0.82 vs. 0.60 per 100 py) and major bleeding (1.20 vs. 0.92 per 100 py).

Conclusions

Patients with AF and history of HF may have greater disease burden at AF diagnosis and increased mortality rates vs. patients without HF. Stroke and major bleeding rates were roughly comparable between groups confirming the long‐term safety and effectiveness of dabigatran in patients with HF.
Differences in directed functional brain connectivity related to age, sex and mental health
Authors: Lund Martina J. , Alnæs Dag , Schwab Simon , van der Meer Dennis , Andreassen Ole A. , Westlye Lars T. , Kaufmann Tobias
Published: July 2020

Functional interconnections between brain regions define the “connectome” which is of central interest for understanding human brain function. Resting‐state functional magnetic resonance (rsfMRI) work has revealed changes in static connectivity related to age, sex, cognitive abilities and psychiatric symptoms, yet little is known how these factors may alter the information flow. The commonly used approach infers functional brain connectivity using stationary coefficients yielding static estimates of the undirected connection strength between brain regions. Dynamic graphical models (DGMs) are a multivariate model with dynamic coefficients reflecting directed temporal associations between nodes, and can yield novel insight into directed functional connectivity. Here, we leveraged this approach to test for associations between edge‐wise estimates of direction flow across the functional connectome and age, sex, intellectual abilities and mental health. We applied DGM to investigate patterns of information flow in data from 984 individuals from the Human Connectome Project (HCP) and 10,249 individuals from the UK Biobank. Our analysis yielded patterns of directed connectivity in independent HCP and UK Biobank data similar to those previously reported, including that the cerebellum consistently receives information from other networks. We show robust associations between information flow and age and sex for several connections, with strongest effects of age observed in the sensorimotor network. Visual, auditory and sensorimotor nodes were also linked to mental health. Our findings support the use of DGM as a measure of directed connectivity in rsfMRI data and provide new insight into the shaping of the connectome during aging.
Acute Kidney Injury in Decompensated Cirrhosis Is Associated With Both Hypo‐coagulable and Hyper‐coagulable Features
Authors: Zanetto Alberto , Rinder Henry M. , Campello Elena , Saggiorato Graziella , Deng Yanhong , Ciarleglio Maria , Wilson Francis P. , Senzolo Marco , Gavasso Sabrina , Bulato Cristiana , Simioni Paolo , Garcia‐Tsao Guadalupe
Published: July 2020

Background and Aims

Recent evidence suggests that acute kidney injury (AKI) is the main predictor of postparacentesis bleeding in patients with cirrhosis. To assess the factors responsible for bleeding tendency in AKI, we performed a prospective study comparing all three aspects of hemostasis (platelets, coagulation, and fibrinolysis) in patients with decompensated cirrhosis with and without AKI.

Approach and Results

Primary hemostasis assessment included platelet aggregation and secretion (platelet function markers) and von Willebrand factor. Secondary hemostasis assessment included pro‐coagulant (factor VIII and factor XIII) and anti‐coagulant (protein C, protein S, and antithrombin) factors and thrombin generation. Tertiary hemostasis assessment included fibrinolytic factors and plasmin‐antiplasmin complex. Eighty patients with decompensated cirrhosis were recruited (40 each with and without AKI). Severity of cirrhosis and platelet count were comparable between groups. Median serum creatinine was 1.8 mg/dL and 0.8 mg/dL in patients with and without AKI, respectively. At baseline, patients with cirrhosis and AKI had lower platelet aggregation and secretion, indicative of impaired platelet function (increased bleeding tendency), without differences in von Willebrand factor. Regarding coagulation factors, factor VIII was higher, whereas protein C, protein S, and antithrombin were all lower, which, together with increased thrombin generation, indicate hypercoagulability. In contrast, factor XIII was lower in AKI (increased bleeding tendency). Finally, while both hypofibrinolytic and hyperfibrinolytic changes were present in AKI, a higher plasmin‐antiplasmin complex indicated a hyperfibrinolytic state. After AKI resolution (n = 23 of 40), platelet function and coagulation improved to levels observed in patients with cirrhosis patients without AKI; however, fibrinolysis remained hyperactivated.

Conclusions

In patients with decompensated cirrhosis, AKI is associated with both hypocoagulable and hypercoagulable features that can potentially increase the risk of both bleeding and thrombosis.
Effect of adiabatic length on the performance of closed‐loop thermosyphon system
Authors: Birajdar Mahasidha R. , Sewatkar Chandrasekhar M.
Published: July 2020

This paper reports the effect of different adiabatic lengths on the thermal performance of loop thermosyphon with different filling ratios (FRs) and heat inputs. The carbon steel thermosyphon loop for three different adiabatic lengths is used in this analysis. The loop with plate‐type, forced air‐cooled condenser, along with two vertical inline evaporators, is filled and tested with distilled water. The transient and steady‐state analyses are carried out to understand the thermal behavior of the loop. The thermal resistance is found to be lowest at 800‐mm adiabatic length and 60% FR. The geyser boiling phenomenon is also noticed in the present thermosyphon loop. The period of oscillation and temperature fluctuations in the evaporator and condenser increase with the adiabatic length. The geyser boiling phenomenon may disappear at a very small adiabatic length of the loop thermosyphon with forced air‐cooled condenser. This paper proposes a mathematical model for the loop thermosyphon in terms of the Nusselt number, the Reynolds number, the Prandtl number, and the adiabatic length‐to‐diameter ratio, and the comparative study shows that proposed model validates the experimental results. Also, it is found that the adiabatic length‐to‐diameter ratio inversely varies with the Nusselt number.
MHD nanofluid flow with variable physical parameters via thermal radiation: A numerical study
Authors: Govindaraj N. , Singh A. K. , Shukla Pankaj
Published: July 2020

Objective: The objective of the current study is to deal with magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) nanoliquid flow over moving vertical plate with variable Prandtl numbers and viscosities. This analysis also includes the influence of thermal radiation. Quite significant variation in viscosity and Prandtl number in high‐range temperature is observed. Thus, Prandtl number and viscosity are surmised to vary as an inversely proportional linear function of temperature.

Problem definition: The MHD nanoliquid flow is considered along with the semi‐infinite plate with the velocity Uw toward the x‐direction, which is also the direction for free‐stream velocity . The geometrical sketch of the physical problem with the coordinate system is shown in Figure 1. The coordinate system has two coordinate axes: the ‐coordinate (x) and ‐coordinate (y). They are perpendicular to each other. The mathematical modeling of physical problem has been formulated by incorporating viscous terms into the governing equation related to thermal radiation, buoyant force, Brownian motion, thermophoresis, and magnetic parameter.

Methodology: The mathematical modeling of current physical problem consists of highly nonlinear partial differential equations which have been solved numerically using quasilinearization technique along with finite difference method. The present outcome during numerical simulation is outlined in terms of velocity, temperature, and concentration profiles and they are analyzed with suitable physical reasons.

Main results: The impact of various parameters on the velocity, temperature, and concentration profiles has been discussed with physical explanation. Velocity profile of the fluid enhances and concentration reduces with escalating buoyancy parameter . In particular, 13% increment in velocity profile is observed as increases by 0.9 scale [], whereas 17% reduction in concentration profiles is noticed as increases by 0.5 scale [] at other fixed parameters. It is observed that magnetic parameter increases the temperature and concentration profiles , whereas it works as deduction parameter for velocity profile . The increasing value of thermophoresis and Lewis number works as catalyst for velocity, temperature, and concentration profiles. As thermophoresis increases from 0.5 to 2.0, temperature profile approximately increases 65% at other fixed parameters. As Lewis number increases from 0.5 to 4.0, then the temperature increases approximately 75% at other fixed parameters.
Cortical Bone Porosity in Rabbit Models of Osteoporosis
Authors: Harrison Kim D , Hiebert Beverly D , Panahifar Arash , Andronowski Janna M , Ashique Amir M , King Gavin A , Arnason Terra , Swekla Kurtis J , Pivonka Peter , Cooper David ML
Published: July 2020

Cortical bone porosity is intimately linked with remodeling, is of growing clinical interest, and is increasingly accessible by imaging. Thus, the potential of animal models of osteoporosis (OP) to provide a platform for studying how porosity develops and responds to interventions is tremendous. To date, rabbit models of OP have largely focused on trabecular microarchitecture or bone density; some such as ovariectomy (OVX) have uncertain efficacy and cortical porosity has not been extensively reported. Our primary objective was to characterize tibial cortical porosity in rabbit-based models of OP, including OVX, glucocorticoids (GC), and OVX + GC relative to controls (SHAM). We sought to: (i) test the hypothesis that intracortical remodeling is elevated in these models; (ii) contrast cortical remodeling and porosity in these models with that induced by parathyroid hormone (1–34; PTH); and (iii) contrast trabecular morphology in the proximal tibia across all groups. Evidence that an increase in cortical porosity occurred in all groups was observed, although this was the least robust for GC. Histomorphometric measures supported the hypothesis that remodeling rate was elevated in all groups and also revealed evidence of uncoupling of bone resorption and formation in the GC and OVX + GC groups. For trabecular bone, a pattern of loss was observed for OVX, GC, and OVX + GC groups, whereas the opposite was observed for PTH. Change in trabecular number best explained these patterns. Taken together, the findings indicated rabbit models provide a viable and varied platform for the study of OP and associated changes in cortical remodeling and porosity. Intriguingly, the evidence revealed differing effects on the cortical and trabecular envelopes for the PTH model. © 2020 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR)..
Increasing summer precipitation in arid Central Asia linked to the weakening of the East Asian summer monsoon in the recent decades
Authors: Chen Chunzhu , Zhang Xiaojian , Lu Huayu , Jin Liya , Du Yan , Chen Fahu
Published: July 2020

It is generally believed that water vapour from the North Atlantic transported by the mid‐latitude westerlies dominates precipitation variations in arid Central Asia, where monsoonal water vapour source is beyond the reach. This study reexamines water vapour sources for arid Central Asia based on daily reanalysis data. The results reveal two water vapour sources for arid Central Asia: the westerly water vapour transport from the North Atlantic and the monsoonal water vapour transport from the tropical Indian Ocean and South China Sea. The monsoonal transport includes two pathways: lower tropospheric water vapour along the eastern and northern periphery of the Tibetan Plateau from the tropical Indian Ocean and South China Sea, and middle‐upper tropospheric water vapour via the Tibetan Plateau from the tropical Indian Ocean. Precipitation variability during the monsoonal transport events explains 81% of the total variance. The monsoonal transport is related to a weakened East Asian summer monsoon (EASM) that is accompanied by persistent westward shift of the western Pacific subtropical high and increasing frequency of Mongolian anticyclone activities. The EASM has experienced a persistent weakening trend since 1958, causing an increasing contribution of the monsoonal water vapour transport and thereby enhancing summer precipitation in arid Central Asia. In particular, the monsoonal easterly water vapour has become the dominant source for arid Central Asia in the lower troposphere during the last decade. This study highlights the important role of the EASM in the wetting trend of summers in arid Central Asia during the past six decades.
Effects of tropical North Atlantic sea surface temperature on intense tropical cyclones landfalling in China
Authors: Gao Si , Chen Zhifan , Zhang Wei , Shen Xinyong
Published: July 2020

This study identifies a significant positive association between tropical North Atlantic (TNA) sea surface temperature (SST) during preceding spring and the frequency of intense tropical cyclones (TCs) making landfall over mainland China during autumn on interannual time scales. Observational analyses show that a warm SST anomaly in TNA during spring can induce a warm SST anomaly in the western part of the western North Pacific (WNP) in subsequent autumn, through a chain of air‐sea coupled processes such as Rossby‐wave response, wind‐evaporation‐SST feedback, and westward advection of warm surface water. The physical mechanisms are verified using a suite of coupled numerical experiments performed by the state‐of‐the‐art Community Earth System Model. The warm SST anomaly in the western part of WNP is responsible for the genesis and intensification of intense TCs in situ, and the climatologically mean southeasterly steering flow is favourable for the intense TCs to make landfall over mainland China.
Recent observed country‐wide climate trends in Morocco
Authors: Driouech Fatima , Stafi Hafid , Khouakhi Abdou , Moutia Sara , Badi Wafae , ElRhaz Khalid , Chehbouni Abdelghani
Published: July 2020

In this study, we evaluate trends in precipitation and temperature and their related extreme indices in Morocco based on a set of National Climate Monitoring Products defined the by the commission for climatology of the WMO. We use daily precipitation, maximum and minimum temperature data from 30 meteorological stations distributed throughout the country and covering the period from 1960 to 2016. Statistically significant increasing trends in warm temperature events and a tendency towards decreasing cold extremes at both daytime and night are depicted across the country consistent with the generalized observed global warming. We found that the daily temperature in Morocco has risen with higher rates than the global scale. The depicted trend of 0.33°C per decade corresponds to a warming of approximately 1.1°C for the period 1984–2016. The annual mean precipitation and the standardized drought index show less spatially consistent tendencies despite the predominance of negative trends. Considering the effect of the warming in the analysis of drought evolution using the Standardized Precipitation‐Evapotranspiration Index, we detected statistically significant trends towards dryer conditions in different regions of the northern half of the country. Analysis of the relationship between precipitation in Morocco and the large‐scale atmospheric circulation in the Atlantic area confirmed the effects of the North Atlantic Oscillation, especially for the winter season (with low influence at the annual scale). Moreover, we found that the NAO exerts significant influence on winter extreme temperatures during night time. However, such correlations alone may not explain the depicted significant generalized warming trends and the drying evolution.