bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Quantitative Assessment of Wound Healing With Oxygenated Micro/Nanobubbles in a Preclinical Burn Model
Authors: Sayadi Lohrasb R. , Rowland Rebecca , Naides Alexandra , Tomlinson Luke , Ponticorvo Adrien , Durkin Anthony J. , Widgerow Alan D.
Published: September 2021

Background

Burns are devastating injuries, carry significant morbidity, and require long-term treatment or multiple reconstructive procedures. Wound healing and secondary insults caused by burn wound conversion are amendable to therapeutic intervention, where ischemia has been cited as one of the major factors (Dermatol Surg. 2008;34:1159–1169). Halting injury progression in the zone of stasis is crucial as conversion creates increased burn surface area and depth, leading to local and systemic consequences (J Burns Wounds. 2006;5:e2). Oxygen-carrying micro/nanobubbles, MNB(O2), offer a novel technology that can be used to effectively deliver oxygen to burn wounds and potentially counteract burn wound ischemia.

Methods

Topical irrigation with MNB(O2) of full-thickness burn wounds on a rodent model (n = 3) was compared against saline-treated controls (n = 3). Tissue structure (reduced scattering coefficient, μs'), oxyhemoglobin concentration (cHbO2), and tissue perfusion were quantified over the course of 28 days through spatial frequency domain imaging and laser speckle imaging. Histological samples taken at the end of the experiment were examined for evidence of wound healing.

Results

Findings in this preliminary study showed hastened healing with significant differences in spatial frequency domain imaging–measured μs' during wound healing (days 11–28) in MNB(O2) group. The healing “tipping point” seemed to occur at days 9 to 11 with increased collagen organization and increased cHbO2 occurring around that period confirming the gross healing improvements observed. In addition, histological evidence indicated that only the MNB(O2) burns had reached the remodeling phase by the end of 28-day study period.

Conclusions

These preliminary findings propose the potential of MNB(O2) as a topical method for improving burn wound healing.
Vitamin D Status and Cognitive and Functional Outcomes in Patients With Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Hahn Michaelann , Samavat Hamed , Parker Anna , Zelig Rena
Published: September 2021

The purpose of this literature review is to explore the associations between vitamin D status and cognitive and functional outcomes in patients with traumatic brain injury who present in the outpatient or rehabilitation setting. The findings from 3 observational studies showed that while vitamin D deficiency is prevalent in this population, the associations between vitamin D status and cognitive and functional outcomes are not consistent. Limited evidence suggests that patients with traumatic brain injury in the outpatient or rehabilitation setting have increased incidence of vitamin D deficiency and, as such, may benefit from monitoring of laboratory assays and supplementation as needed.
The Efficacy of Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation for Improving Health Outcomes in Patients With Neurological Injuries and Traumas
Authors: Adams Hillary , Hewlings Susan
Published: September 2021

Omega-3 fatty acids are known to reduce platelet aggregation and decrease risk of cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease. Currently, there are no published systematic reviews that address the effect of omega-3 supplementation after a cerebral injury. This review addresses the benefit of omega-3 supplementation after intracranial injury, including traumatic brain injury and intracranial hemorrhage. Five studies met all of the inclusion criteria and were included in the review. Two trials reported improved clinical outcomes, measured as incidence of postoperative bleeding and symptomatic or cerebral vasospasm, while 3 saw no impact from omega-3 supplementation. In conclusion, omega-3 fatty acid supplementation may be beneficial in patients who have experienced intracranial injury.
The Effects of Sorbet Drinking Before Meal on Food Intake and Body Mass Index Among Elderly People With Xerostomia
Authors: Dadgari Ali , Vahedi Hamid , Arabahmadi Shirin , Mirrezaie Seyed Mohammad
Published: September 2021

Research is limited regarding the nutritional impact on xerostomia in the elderly. In a quasi-clinical trial, water intake with food, food intake, and body mass index were assessed during the 7 days before and after the intervention of providing a sorbet before lunch and dinner for 8 weeks. We observed differences in subjective and objective xerostomia evaluation, water amount needed while eating (mean difference = −26.28 ± 21.21; 95% confidence interval, −31.34 to −21.23; P = .016), and food intake (P = .033) before and after the intervention. A statistically significant change was observed among seniors with a body mass index less than 25 (mean difference = 0.42 ± 0.57; 95% CI, 0.21-0.63; P < .001), indicating that xerostomia management may improve food intake and body mass index.
Machine Learning Prediction of Liver Allograft Utilization From Deceased Organ Donors Using the National Donor Management Goals Registry
Authors: Bishara Andrew M. , Lituiev Dmytro S. , Adelmann Dieter , Kothari Rishi P. , Malinoski Darren J. , Nudel Jacob D. , Sally Mitchell B. , Hirose Ryutaro , Hadley Dexter D. , Niemann Claus U.
Published: September 2021

Background.

Early prediction of whether a liver allograft will be utilized for transplantation may allow better resource deployment during donor management and improve organ allocation. The national donor management goals (DMG) registry contains critical care data collected during donor management. We developed a machine learning model to predict transplantation of a liver graft based on data from the DMG registry.

Methods.

Several machine learning classifiers were trained to predict transplantation of a liver graft. We utilized 127 variables available in the DMG dataset. We included data from potential deceased organ donors between April 2012 and January 2019. The outcome was defined as liver recovery for transplantation in the operating room. The prediction was made based on data available 12–18 h after the time of authorization for transplantation. The data were randomly separated into training (60%), validation (20%), and test sets (20%). We compared the performance of our models to the Liver Discard Risk Index.

Results.

Of 13 629 donors in the dataset, 9255 (68%) livers were recovered and transplanted, 1519 recovered but used for research or discarded, 2855 were not recovered. The optimized gradient boosting machine classifier achieved an area under the curve of the receiver operator characteristic of 0.84 on the test set, outperforming all other classifiers.

Conclusions.

This model predicts successful liver recovery for transplantation in the operating room, using data available early during donor management. It performs favorably when compared to existing models. It may provide real-time decision support during organ donor management and transplant logistics.
Targeting Bruton's tyrosine kinase in primary central nervous system lymphoma
Authors: Steffanoni Sara , Batchelor Tracy T.
Published: September 2021

Purpose of review

We review the preclinical and clinical experience with first and subsequent generation Bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibitors in B-cell lymphoproliferative diseases, highlighting the rationale for their clinical use in primary central nervous system diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (PCNSL).

Recent findings

Growing knowledge on the molecular and genetic profile of PCNSL has provided the basis for new drug development targeting aberrantly activated oncogenic signal transduction pathways. PCNSL exhibits frequent genetic alterations of components of the B-cell and Toll-like receptor signalling pathways. On the basis of these discoveries and the limited efficacy obtained with chemotherapy in refractory and relapsed PCNSL, activity of new targeted agents, such as Bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibitors, has been explored with promising results.

Innovative therapeutic strategies, applied in first line, have contributed to improved outcomes in patients with PCNSL, making this disease potentially curable in young and fit patients. However, response to induction therapies remains suboptimal and the best consolidative therapy has yet to be defined. In this regard, given the activity of Bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibitors in the refractory and relapsed PCNSL setting, these agents are currently being explored as part of combination regimens for induction therapy of newly diagnosed PCNSL.
Orangutan information broadcast via consonant-like and vowel-like calls breaches mathematical models of linguistic evolution
Authors: Lameira Adriano R. , Alexandre António , Gamba Marco , Nowak Matthew G. , Vicente Raquel , Wich Serge
Published: September 2021

The origin of language is one of the most significant evolutionary milestones of life on Earth, but one of the most persevering scientific unknowns. Two decades ago, game theorists and mathematicians predicted that the first words and grammar emerged as a response to transmission errors and information loss in language's precursor system, however, empirical proof is lacking. Here, we assessed information loss in proto-consonants and proto-vowels in human pre-linguistic ancestors as proxied by orangutan consonant-like and vowel-like calls that compose syllable-like combinations. We played back and re-recorded calls at increasing distances across a structurally complex habitat (i.e. adverse to sound transmission). Consonant-like and vowel-like calls degraded acoustically over distance, but no information loss was detected regarding three distinct classes of information (
viz.
individual ID, context and population ID). Our results refute prevailing mathematical predictions and herald a turning point in language evolution theory and heuristics. Namely, explaining how the vocal–verbal continuum was crossed in the hominid family will benefit from future mathematical and computational models that, in order to enjoy empirical validity and superior explanatory power, will be informed by great ape behaviour and repertoire.
Morphological determinants of bite force capacity in insects: a biomechanical analysis of polymorphic leaf-cutter ants
Authors: Püffel Frederik , Pouget Anaya , Liu Xinyue , Zuber Marcus , van de Kamp Thomas , Roces Flavio , Labonte David
Published: September 2021

The extraordinary success of social insects is partially based on division of labour, i.e. individuals exclusively or preferentially perform specific tasks. Task preference may correlate with morphological adaptations so implying task specialization, but the extent of such specialization can be difficult to determine. Here, we demonstrate how the physical foundation of some tasks can be leveraged to quantitatively link morphology and performance. We study the allometry of bite force capacity inAtta vollenweiderileaf-cutter ants, polymorphic insects in which the mechanical processing of plant material is a key aspect of the behavioural portfolio. Through a morphometric analysis of tomographic scans, we show that the bite force capacity of the heaviest colony workers is twice as large as predicted by isometry. This disproportionate ‘boost’ is predominantly achieved through increased investment in muscle volume; geometrical parameters such as mechanical advantage, fibre length or pennation angle are likely constrained by the need to maintain a constant mandibular opening range. We analyse this preference for an increase in size-specific muscle volume and the adaptations in internal and external head anatomy required to accommodate it with simple geometric and physical models, so providing a quantitative understanding of the functional anatomy of the musculoskeletal bite apparatus in insects.
Thermosynergistes pyruvativorans gen. nov., sp. nov., an anaerobic, pyruvate-degrading bacterium from Shengli oilfield, and proposal of Thermosynergistaceae fam. nov. in the phylum Synergistetes
Authors: Yang Min , Li Jiang , Lv Xiao-meng , Dai Li-rong , Wu Ke-jia , Tu Bo , Lawson Paul A. , Tang Yue-qin , Cheng Lei
Published: September 2021

A strictly anaerobic, thermophilic, Gram-stain-negative bacterium, named as strain S15T, was isolated from oily sludge of Shengli oilfield in PR China. Cells of strain S15Twere straight or slightly curved rods with 0.4–0.8 µm width × 1.4–3 µm length and occurred mostly in pairs or short chains. Endospore-formation was not observed. The strain grew optimally at 55 °C (range from 30–65 °C), pH 6.5 (pH 6.0–8.5) and 0–30 g l−1NaCl (optimum with 10 g l−1NaCl). Yeast extract was an essential growth factor for strain S15T. The major cellular fatty acid was iso-C15 : 0(58.2 %), and the main polar lipids were amino phospholipid (APL), glycolipids (GLs) and phosphatidylethanolamine (PE). The G+C content of DNA of strain S15Twas 52.2 mol%. Strain S15Tshared 89.8 % 16S rRNA gene similarity with the most related organismAcetomicrobium hydrogeniformansDSM 22491Tin the phylumSynergistetes. The paired genomic average amino acid identity (AAI) and percentage of conserved proteins (POCP) values showed relatedness of less than 58.0 and 39.7 % with type strains of the species in the phylumSynergistetes. On the basis of phenotypic, phylogenetic and phylogenomic evidences, strain S15Tconstitutes a novel species in a novel genus, for the nameThermosynergistes pyruvativoransgen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is S15T(=CCAM 583T=JCM 33159T).Thermosynergistaceaefam. nov. is also proposed.
Depression, anxiety, and chronic fatigue symptoms in acute rheumatoid arthritis are associated with immune-inflammatory, autoimmune, endogenous opioid system and lactosylceramide signaling pathways: a nomothetic network approach
Authors: Smesam Hasan Najah , Qazmooz Hasan Abbas , Khayoon Sinan Qayes , Al-Hakeim Hussein Kadhem , Maes Michael
Published: September 2021

Background

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory and autoimmune disorder which affects the joints in the wrists, fingers, and knees. RA is often associated with depressive and anxiety symptoms as well as chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS)-like symptoms.

Aim

To examine the association between depressive symptoms (measured with the Beck Depression Inventory, BDI), anxiety (Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale, HAMA), and CFS-like (Fibro-fatigue Scale) symptoms and immune-inflammatory, autoimmune, and endogenous opioid system (EOS) markers, and lactosylceramide in RA.

Methods

Serum biomarkers were assayed in RA patients with (n=59) and without (n=59) increased psychopathology (PP) and 50 healthy controls.

Results

There were highly significant correlations between the BDI, FF, and HAMA scores and severity of RA, as assessed with the DAS28-4, clinical and disease activity indices, the number of tenders and swollen joints, and patient and evaluator global assessment scores. A common latent vector (reflective model) could be extracted from the PP and RA-severity scales, which showed excellent psychometric properties. Partial least squares analysis showed that 69.7% of the variance in this common core underpinning PP and RA symptoms could be explained by the regression on immune-inflammatory pathways, rheumatoid factor and anti-citrullinated protein antibodies, CD17, and mu-opioid receptor levels.

Conclusions

Depression, anxiety, and CFS-like symptoms due to RA are reflective manifestations of the phenome of RA and are mediated via the effects of the same immune-inflammatory, autoimmune, and EOS pathways and lactosylceramide that underpin the pathophysiology of RA. These PP symptoms are clinical manifestations of the pathophysiology of RA.
Visualization of bacterial type 3 secretion system components down to the molecular level by MINFLUX nanoscopy
Authors: Carsten Alexander , Rudolph Maren , Weihs Tobias , Schmidt Roman , Wurm Christian A. , Diepold Andreas , Failla Antonio Virgilio , Wolters Manuel , Aepfelbacher Martin
Published: September 2021

Type 3 secretion systems (T3SS) are essential virulence factors of numerous bacterial pathogens and inject effector proteins into host cells. The needle-like T3SS machinery consists of more than 20 components, has a length of around 100 nm and a diameter of up to 30 nm according to EM studies. Its intrabacterial components are highly dynamic and in permanent exchange with other bacterial structures. Therefore, a temporally and spatially resolved visualization of the T3SS using fluorescence microscopy techniques has been challenging. In the present study, novel labeling strategies were combined with super-resolution microscopy such as STED, STORM and MINFLUX. MINFLUX nanoscopy allowed to visualize components of the T3SS machinery such as the dynamic sorting platform component YscL and the extrabacterial pore protein YopD at unprecedented resolutions. The presented results represent the basis for an in depth investigation of T3SS structure and function and therefore gain new insights into the infection process of human pathogens in order to develop novel treatment and prevention strategies.
Mechano-Biochemical Regulation of the C. elegans HMP1–HMP2 protein complex
Authors: Le Shimin , Yu Miao , Martin Sterling , Hardin Jeff , Yan Jie
Published: September 2021

The HMP1-HMP2 protein complex, a counterpart ofα-catenin–β-catenin complex in C. elegans, mediates the tension transmission between HMR1 (cadherin) and actin cytoskeleton and serves as a critical mechanosensor at the cell–cell adherens junction. The complex has been shown to play critical roles in embryonic development and tissue integrity in C. elegans. The complex is subject to tension due to internal actomyosin contractility and external mechanical micro-environmental perturbations. However, how tension regulates the stability and interaction of HMP1–HMP2 complex has yet to be investigated. Here, we directly quantify the mechanical stability of the full-length HMP1 and its force-bearing modulation domains (M1-M3), and show that they unfold within physiological level of tension (pico-newton scale). The inter-domain interactions within the modulation domain leads to strong mechanical stabilization of M1 in HMP1, resulting in a significantly stronger force threshold to expose the buried vinculin binding site compared to the M1 domain inα-catenins. Moreover, we also quantify the mechanical stability of the inter-molecular HMP1–HMP2 interface and show that it is mechanically stable enough to support the tension-transmission and tension-sensing of the HMP1 modulation domains. Further, we show that single-residue phosphomimetic mutation (Y69E) on HMP2 weakens the mechanical stability of the HMP1–HMP2 interface and thus weakens the force-transmission molecular linkage and the associated mechanosensing functions. Together, these results provide a mechano-biochemical understanding of C. elegans HMP1–HMP2 protein complex’s roles in mechanotransduction.
Brittle fracture on plates governed by topological derivatives
Authors: Xavier Marcel , Van Goethem Nicolas
Published: September 2021

Purpose

In the paper an approach for crack nucleation and propagation phenomena in brittle plate structures is presented.

Design/methodology/approach

The Francfort–Marigo damage theory is adapted to the Kirchhoff and Reissner–Mindlin plate bending models. Then, the topological derivative method is used to minimize the associated Francfort–Marigo shape functional. In particular, the whole damaging process is governed by a threshold approach based on the topological derivative field, leading to a notable simple algorithm.

Findings

Numerical simulations are driven in order to verify the applicability of the proposed method in the context of brittle fracture modeling on plates. The obtained results reveal the capability of the method to determine nucleation and propagation including bifurcation of multiple cracks with a minimal number of user-defined algorithmic parameters.

Originality/value

This is the first work concerning brittle fracture modeling of plate structures based on the topological derivative method.
Ichalkaranji: India’s Manchester needs to weave magic
Authors: Krishna Malay , Sivaraman Vasant
Published: September 2021

Supplementary materials

The case includes links to video clips on textile and apparel manufacture to familiarize students with the textile manufacturing process. The case also provides links to audio and video clips of the case protagonist discussing the strengths and weaknesses of the cluster at IK.

Learning outcomes

The case offers opportunities for the learner to analyze the situation from three cases as follows: industry, cluster (broadly location) and firm. Specific teaching objectives are as follows: How to identify and analyze the drivers of competitiveness of a cluster. Assess the strength of clusters using Porter’s Diamond framework. Map the linkages between players of a cluster as follows: across firms, industries and public organizations. Benchmark and compare clusters to identify opportunities for upgrading competitiveness.

Case overview/synopsis

The case describes the challenge facing Mr Nikunj Bagdia, the owner and chief executive of Ken Enterprises Private Limited (Ken), a textile manufacturing unit located in the town of Ichalkaranji (IK), in October of 2019. IK boasts the largest number of cutting-edge air-jet looms in India and Ken is IK’s largest exporter of woven textile fabrics. However, IK lags the textile and apparel manufacturing cluster of Tiruppur, in another region of the country. The case enables a microeconomic analysis of the business environment of industrial clusters and a cluster mapping exercise, which helps identify opportunities for enhancing IK’s textile cluster. As the case closes, Nikunj is trying to prioritize opportunities that could emerge from the analyzes.

Complexity academic level

Masters/MBA level courses on competitiveness, strategy for economic development and microeconomics of competitiveness.

Subject Code

CSS 11: Strategy.
Multiteam systems as integrated networks for engaging ambidexterity as dynamic capabilities
Authors: Dean Benjamin P.
Published: September 2021

Purpose

This inquiry aims to determine the features and mechanisms that specially enable a multiteam system (MTS) to develop ambidexterity that can deal effectively with rapid changes in dynamic environments. The MTS is an emerging organizational unit comprised of tightly integrated networks of teams that may originate from one or more firms. The inquiry also considered how an MTS can engage those features and mechanisms to maximize ambidexterity as dynamic capabilities for increased innovation and long-term adaptation under complex, volatile conditions.

Design/methodology/approach

This conceptual inquiry integrates the emerging research on MTSs with theory and studies relating to ambidexterity and dynamic capabilities. This inquiry focuses on the attributes and linkages that specially characterize an MTS. It analyzes these to determine the key mechanisms and interactions enabling and engaging ambidexterity at MTS unit level.

Findings

MTSs can engage powerful mechanisms for ambidexterity functioning as dynamic capabilities at meso-organizational level. The attributes and linkages that distinguish an MTS from other units enable it to deal effectively and efficiently with near-term task demands by simultaneously balancing the essential tasks of exploration and exploitation, and by being able to rapidly adapt by reconfiguring taskwork and reallocating resources as required for sustainable innovation and long-term success within a dynamic environment.

Practical implications

This inquiry provides valuable insights for designing MTSs that are equipped with selected teams, flexible memberships, specialized skills and permeable interfaces. Autonomy for an MTS allows the unit to span internal and external organizational boundaries to gain access to new discoveries and to exchange information and material resources for increased innovation. Ambidexterity as dynamic capabilities facilitates exploitation of current resources by efficiently reconfiguring taskwork and reallocating materials for adaptation and competitive advantage.

Originality/value

This inquiry appears to represent the most integrative effort to examine the underexplored potential of MTSs for developing and engaging ambidexterity functioning as dynamic capabilities. The inquiry appears to be a first effort at articulating a concept of MTS ambidexterity distinct from organizational ambidexterity. The analysis synthesizes a systems model that guides organizational leaders and opens new opportunities for future research.
How do social responsibility and social entrepreneurship generate value creation in pandemics?
Authors: Silva Rui , Rodrigues Margarida , Franco Mário , Oliveira Cidália , Sousa Nuno
Published: September 2021

Purpose

Using self-determination theory and individual social responsibility’s (ISRs) association with pure social entrepreneurship, this study aims to answer the following question: How and why have the different actors responded to the crisis caused by the pandemic?

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative research (multiple case studies) was adopted, resorting to interviewees with seven economic and non-economic actors in the Portugal context.

Findings

The results obtained, using MAXQDA software, show that those carrying out actions of social responsibility have a high degree of self-determination and intrinsic motivation, and are true social entrepreneurs, which lets them improve the well-being of those around them. In addition, these individuals feel good about themselves by performing these actions, as they measure their performance by the social impact of their actions on society in general.

Practical implications

This study suggest there is a high awareness amongst people to exercise that responsibility in a voluntary way, through humanitarian initiatives and campaigns brought about especially by an unprecedented pandemic. In practice, people joining these initiatives motivate many others towards the causes, creating the will to continue in the future and satisfy unmet needs provoked by social crises.

Originality/value

This study is innovative because it is related to filling the gaps identified, mainly by carrying out an empirical study about ISR, rather than that of firms, where studies are more common.
Islamic mortgage adoption: examining the moderating effects of Islamic altruism
Authors: Sayuti Khadijah M. , Amin Hanudin
Published: September 2021

Purpose

Using the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) as an analytical framework, this paper aims to investigate the direct effects of attitude, subjective norm, perceived behavioural control, price fairness and Islamic altruism. It also explores how these path linkages can be moderated by Islamic altruism.

Design/methodology/approach

Data are gathered via survey questionnaires on 287 Muslim bank customers in major cities of East Malaysia. The data are then tested using partial least squares.

Findings

The results show that attitude, subjective norm, perceived behavioural control, price fairness and Islamic altruism are significantly influenced by Muslim bank customers’ intention to choose Islamic home financing products. Islamic altruism is also found to significantly moderate the relationship between price fairness and behavioural intention.

Research limitations/implications

Three limitations are available for future research that include the geographical restriction, respondents’ selection and a limited number of battery items used.

Practical implications

Essentially, the results of this study serve as a guide for Islamic bank managers or mortgage providers to improve their pertinent marketing strategies, which are vital to enhancing the acceptance rate of Islamic mortgage.

Originality/value

This study extends the TPB model by incorporating price fairness and Islamic altruism into the Islamic home financing context.
A generative design case study for UAV-based assembly and fabrication: parametric analysis and synthesis of Iranian-Islamic Muqarnas
Authors: Zamani Erfan , Dounas Theodoros
Published: September 2021

Purpose

This study proposes a DfMA (Design for Manufacture and Assembly) based on unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and uses Iranian-Islamic Muqarnas as the main case study due to their geometric modularity. In Islamic architecture, different geographic regions are known to have used various design and construction methods of “Muqarnas”, a type of decorated dome.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents a study on parametric analysis of the Iranian-Islamic Muqarnas and analyses its components, geometric relations and construction methods that should be considered when constructing one. This study aims to use the Muqarnas analysis as a driver to generate a DfMA basis on the UAVs and parametric fabrication. In Islamic architecture, different geographic regions use various design and construction methods of Muqarnas. There are four main parameters of the Muqarnas that define their classification; first, their three-dimensional shape, that provides volume. Second, the size of their modules is variable. Third, their own specific generative process-algorithm, and finally, the two-dimensional pattern plan that is used as a basis in the design. Thus, the authors present a global analytical study that drives a generative system to construct Muqarnas, through a careful balance of the four parameters.

Findings

This study thus presents a global analytical study that drives a generative system to construct Muqarnas, through a careful balance of four specifications. The paper reports the result of using a parametric tool, Grasshopper and parametric plugins, for creating a generative system of several types of Muqarnas. This synthetic translation aims at expanding our understanding of parametric analysis and synthesis of traditional architecture, advancing our understanding towards using parametric synthesis, with the scope to fabricate and assemble modules towards UAV-based fabrication of Muqarnas. To do so, the authors are taking advantage of their inherent repetition and recursion.

Originality/value

In the first step, this paper reviews studies on traditional Muqarnas (both Iranian and non-Iranian) and relevant parametric approaches. In the second step, the study aims to create a general generative system for Muqarnas. The creation of a generative system for Muqarnas is driven towards the creation of three-dimensional fabrication of their components so that these are assembled automatically using a swarm of UAVs. This particular drive imposes specific constraints in the parametric system, as the assembly of the final components, the authors posit, can only take place in a pick and place fashion.
Bat phylogenetic responses to regenerating Amazonian forests
Authors: Farneda Fábio Z. , Rocha Ricardo , Aninta Sabhrina G. , López‐Baucells Adrià , Sampaio Erica M. , Palmeirim Jorge M. , Bobrowiec Paulo E. D. , Dambros Cristian S. , Meyer Christoph F. J.
Published: September 2021

Throughout the tropics, regenerating secondary forests occupy vast areas previously cleared for agriculture and cattle ranching. However, despite the importance of regenerating forests in mitigating the pervasive negative consequences of forest loss and fragmentation on forest‐associated biodiversity, longitudinal studies on species' phylogenetic responses to matrix regeneration are rare.

We surveyed bats in continuous primary forest, primary forest fragments and in the regenerating secondary forest matrix of a whole‐ecosystem Amazonian fragmentation experiment, ~15 and ~30 years after forest clearance, to investigate how changes in matrix quality through forest recovery affect phylogeneticα‐ andβ‐diversity.

We found that temporal changes in phylogeneticα‐richness were more marked in the secondary forest matrix than in forest fragments and continuous forest, evidencing a significant increase in total evolutionary history over time. However, when the effects of species richness were accounted for, the phylogenetic structure of each assemblage was reduced close to zero, evincing a random pattern of lineages in all habitat types. Temporal differences in phylogeneticβ‐diversity were driven mainly byβreplacementin secondary forest and continuous forest ~30 years after forest clearance. Both habitats also clustered together in terms ofβrichness, indicating similar levels of evolutionary heritage. Consequently, regenerating secondary forest showed a reduction in the extinction probability of lineages over time.

Synthesis and applications. Approximately 30 years of secondary forest regeneration were sufficient for phylogenetic richness to recover to levels similar to those observed in continuous forest. Promoting forest succession on degraded land through a combination of natural and active restoration, while ensuring the long‐term protection of secondary forests regardless of their age, is of key importance for conserving tropical bat diversity and their associated ecosystem services. Such restoration measures would stimulate the recolonization of fragments and matrix habitats by evolutionarily distinct bat species, safeguarding phylogenetically diverse assemblages and ecological functions. Our study suggests that forest restoration in tropical degraded areas should be encouraged and secondary forests be protected by law, especially in countryside ecosystems with high primary forest cover, and in the surroundings of protected areas.
Effects of occupational therapy on improvements in the handwriting ability of the adult non‐dominant hand: An exploratory randomised controlled trial
Authors: Mutai Hitoshi , Sato Masaaki , Kitahara Tomoki , Hamada Aoi , Ozawa Kana , Noji Anna , Sugimoto Sayaka , Iwanami Jun , Sagari Akira
Published: September 2021

Introduction

Occupational therapy often involves handwriting acquisition practices that include the non‐dominant hand when improvements in the dominant hand function are not possible because of trauma or stroke. This study explored whether character tracing and using a pegboard can effectively improve the handwriting of the non‐dominant hand.

Methods

A randomised controlled trial involving 60 healthy university students aged ≥18 years was conducted. Participants were randomly assigned to the writing group, peg group or control group. The character recognition rate was evaluated by computer software. Furthermore, character quality and writing speed were evaluated by humans using global legibility scales. Evaluations were performed before the intervention (baseline) and on days 5 and 10 of the intervention. Using the non‐dominant hand, the writing group traced characters on paper with a ballpoint pen, and the peg group used a pegboard for 15 min/day for 10 days.

Results

Compared with the peg and control groups, the writing group showed significant improvements in the character recognition rate and global legibility scale score. However, the global legibility scale score did not improve to the same level as that achieved with the dominant hand. None of the evaluation scores of the peg group showed significant improvements compared with those of the control group. There were no significant differences in improvements in the writing speed of the writing and peg groups compared with the control group.

Conclusion

Tracing characters can improve the handwriting ability of the non‐dominant hand, but using a pegboard may be less effective. Future research is needed to examine how much practice is necessary to improve the handwriting ability of the non‐dominant hand sufficiently.
Novel Alcaligenes ammonioxydans sp. nov. from wastewater treatment sludge oxidizes ammonia to N2 with a previously unknown pathway
Authors: Wu Meng‐Ru , Hou Ting‐Ting , Liu Ying , Miao Li‐Li , Ai Guo‐Min , Ma Lan , Zhu Hai‐Zhen , Zhu Ya‐Xin , Gao Xi‐Yan , Herbold Craig W. , Wagner Michael , Li De‐Feng , Liu Zhi‐Pei , Liu Shuang‐Jiang
Published: September 2021

Heterotrophic nitrifiers are able to oxidize and remove ammonia from nitrogen‐rich wastewaters but the genetic elements of heterotrophic ammonia oxidation are poorly understood. Here, we isolated and identified a novel heterotrophic nitrifier, Alcaligenes ammonioxydans sp. nov. strain HO‐1, oxidizing ammonia to hydroxylamine and ending in the production of N2 gas. Genome analysis revealed that strain HO‐1 encoded a complete denitrification pathway but lacks any genes coding for homologous to known ammonia monooxygenases or hydroxylamine oxidoreductases. Our results demonstrated strain HO‐1 denitrified nitrite (not nitrate) to N2 and N2O at anaerobic and aerobic conditions respectively. Further experiments demonstrated that inhibition of aerobic denitrification did not stop ammonia oxidation and N2 production. A gene cluster (dnfT1RT2ABCD) was cloned from strain HO‐1 and enabled E. coli accumulated hydroxylamine. Sub‐cloning showed that genetic cluster dnfAB or dnfABC already enabled E. coli cells to produce hydroxylamine and further to 15N2 from (15NH4)2SO4. Transcriptome analysis revealed these three genes dnfA, dnfB and dnfC were significantly upregulated in response to ammonia stimulation. Taken together, we concluded that strain HO‐1 has a novel dnf genetic cluster for ammonia oxidation and this dnf genetic cluster encoded a previously unknown pathway of direct ammonia oxidation (Dirammox) to N2.
The Determinants of Foreign Direct Investment: A Review and Re‐Analysis of Evidence from Australia
Authors: Rafidi Zac , Verikios George
Published: September 2021

Foreign direct investment (FDI) is foundational to economic growth. Despite this, the Australian empirical literature is limited. Therefore we examine the empirical determinants of Australia's inflow of FDI to understand the factors that motivate FDI. Using autoregressive distributed lag models, the study also highlights how these determinants change across time. While inward FDI can be explained by various theories it is most effectively understood by Dunning's Ownership, Locational and Internalisation framework. Therefore, the factors most important in Australia to attracting FDI are monetary policy, productivity, a competitive tax structure, labour market flexibility and costs of trade and investment.
A Woman's Place is in the House: Reclaiming Civility, Tolerance and Respect in Political Life
Authors: Cox Dame Laura
Published: September 2021

This article is based on the keynote address given by the author on 6 May 2021 at a conference organised by Maison Française d'Oxford/Worcester College, Oxford, with the support of The Political Quarterly and the Alfred Toepfer Stiftung. It considers the world of angry and divisive politics in which we currently reside and the serious adverse impact this is having on women in politics and in public life generally. It examines the causes of the increasing misogyny that exists both online and offline, why there is both an individual and an institutional responsibility to take action to tackle it, and how these problems need urgently to be addressed if women are to continue to play an active role in political life.
Distribution of Selected Critical Elements in the Carboniferous Coal‐bearing Series of the Upper Silesian and Lublin Coal Basins (Poland)
Authors: KRZESZOWSKA Ewa , KOKOWSKA‐PAWŁOWSKA Magdalena , KRZESZOWSKI Światosław
Published: September 2021

The distribution of selected critical elements in the sedimentary rocks of the Carboniferous coal‐bearing series within the Polish Coal Basins is presented. Critical elements such as Be, Mg, Si, P, Sc, V, Co, Y, Nb, In, Sb, La, Ce, Hf, Ta, W, Bi were analysed using inductively‐coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP/MS). Concentrations of elements such as Sb, Bi, In and, to a slightly lesser extent, Nb, as well as Sc, show average concentrations higher than those from the upper continental crust. The average concentrations of elements like Hf, Mg, P, Y, La, and Ce are slightly lower than in the upper continental crust. Other elements, such as Be, Co, Si, Ta, W and V have average concentrations that are similar, but slightly enriched or slightly depleted, relative to the upper continental crust. The research showed enrichment of some critical elements in the analysed samples, but not high enough that extraction would be economically viable. Statistical methods, which include correlation coefficients between elements and cluster analysis, reveal a strong positive correlation between elements like Be, Bi, Nb, Sc, Ta, W and V. Very high, almost total, positive correlation is also noted between La and Ce.
General or regional anaesthesia for postpartum haemorrhage—A national population‐based cohort study
Authors: Wikkelsø Anne J. , Secher Erik L. , Edwards Hellen
Published: September 2021

Background

Anaesthesia is required to assist the treatment of postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) when manual removal of the placenta or emptying of the uterine cavity is required. The choice between general or regional anaesthesia may depend upon factors such as existing epidural, airway, hypovolaemia, and tradition.

Methods

Data from a randomized controlled trial of PPH (FIB‐PPH) was used to reveal differences between delivery centres. In addition, national data of 5,601 PPH procedures requiring anaesthesia during 2010–2015 was collected from the Danish Medical Birth Registry, the National Danish Patient Registry, and the Danish Anaesthesia Database. The aim is to describe the variation in choice of anaesthesia for treatment of PPH.

Results

Data from the randomized trial showed large differences in practice between centres not explained by physiological factors. Using national Danish registry data, we show that large delivery centres as compared to small centres prefer regional anaesthesia for PPH procedures in opposed to general anaesthesia. Sevoflurane was used despite it causing uterine relaxation. The use of general anaesthesia was associated with younger parturients, larger blood loss, and larger Body‐Mass Index. Aspiration was recorded in one case (0.02%). In the postoperative care‐unit general anaesthesia was associated with a shorter stay, but also higher pain score at admission.

Conclusion

Practice varies immensely between delivery centres with large centres preferring regional anaesthesia. Difference in practice might be explained by level of experience, here large centres might be more confident using regional anaesthesia. Knowledge is being extrapolated from literature on caesarean sections. Future studies should address the optimal choice of anaesthesia for PPH procedures.
Inclusion of older adults in emergency department clinical research: Strategies to achieve a critical goal
Authors: Hunold Katherine M. , Goldberg Elizabeth M. , Caterino Jeffrey M. , Hwang Ula , Platts‐Mills Timothy F. , Shah Manish N. , Rosen Tony ,   for the Academy for Geriatric Emergency Medicine
Published: September 2021

Medical research across all fields has historically excluded older adults (aged 65 years and older). Because older adults have a higher burden of chronic illness, respond differently to treatment, and are more prone to medication side effects, the results of current research may not be applicable to this important population. To address this major research deficiency, the National Institutes of Health established the Inclusion Across the Lifespan policy, effective January 2019. We present important considerations and proven strategies for successful inclusion of older adults in emergency care research relating to study design, participant recruitment and retention, and sources of support for investigators.
Correlates of mild, moderate, and severe Alcohol Use Disorder among adults with problem substance use: Validity implications for DSM‐5
Authors: Mannes Zachary L. , Shmulewitz Dvora , Livne Ofir , Stohl Malki , Hasin Deborah S.
Published: September 2021

Background

The DSM‐5 definition of alcohol use disorder (AUD) has been well validated, but information is lacking on the extent to which alcohol use, comorbidity, and impairment are associated with the 3 DSM‐5‐defined AUD severity levels: mild, moderate, and severe. This study examined clinical and functional characteristics as predictors (validators) of these severity levels.

Methods

Participants aged ≥18 years reporting current problem substance use (N = 588) were recruited between 2016 and 2019 and assessed for DSM‐5 AUD and a set of potential validators: indicators of alcohol use severity (i.e., craving, binge drinking frequency, problematic use, and harmful drinking), psychiatric disorders, and functional impairment. Multinomial logistic regression models examined the association between the predictors and the 3 AUD severity levels (mild, moderate, and severe) vs the reference group, no AUD, controlling for sociodemographic characteristics and other substance use.

Results

All alcohol use validators were associated with a greater likelihood of all 3 AUD severity levels compared with the no‐AUD group. However, psychiatric disorders were associated only with severe AUD and participants with major depression (aOR = 2.44), posttraumatic stress disorder (aOR = 1.65), borderline personality disorder (aOR = 1.99), and antisocial personality disorder (aOR = 1.78) had a greater likelihood of severe AUD than the no‐AUD group. Functioning validators were also associated only with severe AUD and participants with social (aOR = 1.87), physical (aOR = 1.62), or mental (aOR = 1.84) impairment had a greater likelihood of severe AUD than the no‐AUD group. Many alcohol‐related, psychiatric, and functioning validators were associated with greater odds of severe AUD than mild or moderate AUD.

Conclusion

This study supports the criterion validity of the DSM‐5 tri‐categorical measure of AUD. Specifically, results fully supported the validity of severe AUD by its associations with all predictors, whereas the validity of mild and moderate AUD was supported only by alcohol use predictor variables. Findings suggest the value of using severity‐specific interventions utilizing the DSM‐5 AUD.
Clinical presentation and assessment of older patients presenting with headache to emergency departments: A multicentre observational study
Authors: Beck Sierra , Kinnear Frances B. , Maree Kelly Anne , Chu Kevin H , Sen Kuan Win , Keijzers Gerben , Body Richard , Karamercan Mehmet A. , Klim Sharon , Wijeratne Tissa , Kamona Sinan , Graham Colin A , Roberts Tom , Horner Daniel , Laribi Said ,   HEAD Study Group
Published: September 2021

Objective

To describe the characteristics, assessment and management of older emergency department (ED) patients with non‐traumatic headache.

Methods

Planned sub‐study of a prospective, multicentre, international, observational study, which included adult patients presenting to ED with non‐traumatic headache. Patients aged ≥75 years were compared to those aged <75 years. Outcomes of interest were epidemiology, investigations, serious headache diagnosis and outcome.

Results

A total of 298 patients (7%) in the parent study were aged ≥75 years. Older patients were less likely to report severe headache pain or subjective fever (bothP < 0.001). On examination, older patients were more likely to be confused, have lower Glasgow Coma Scores and to have new neurological deficits (allP < 0.001). Serious secondary headache disorder (composite of headache due to subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH), intracranial haemorrhage, meningitis, encephalitis, cerebral abscess, neoplasm, hydrocephalus, vascular dissection, stroke, hypertensive crisis, temporal arteritis, idiopathic intracranial hypertension or ventriculoperitoneal shunt complications) was diagnosed in 18% of older patients compared to 6% of younger patients (P < 0.001). Computed tomography brain imaging was performed in 66% of patients ≥75 years compared to 35% of younger patients (P < 0.001). Older patients were less likely to be discharged (43% vs 63%,P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Older patients with headache had different clinical features to the younger cohort and were more likely to have a serious secondary cause of headache than younger adults. There should be a low threshold for investigation in older patients attending ED with non‐traumatic headache.