bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and evaluation of stem cell collection procedure diagrams to support the education and recruitment of committed stem cell donors
Authors: Fingrut Warren , Cuperfain Ari B. , Chan Sze Wah Samuel , Ptak Emilie , Kahlon Manjot , Dhaliwal Justine , Naidu Anish , Wang Yongjun (George) , Baribeau Owen , Mahmoudi Tina , Lee Anna , Suppiah Roopa , Luo Owen D. , Green Meagan , Weiss Jason T. , Mercer Dena , Elmoazzen Heidi , Petraszko Tanya , Allan David
Published: September 2020

Background

Diagrams which allow potential unrelated stem cell donors to visualize the stem cell collection process were hypothesized to support the recruitment and education of committed stem cell donors.

Study design and methods

A series of bone marrow and peripheral blood stem cell collection procedure diagrams were developed, featuring young adult male donors of varied ethnic backgrounds. Post‐implementation, surveys were conducted to evaluate stakeholder perspective on the diagrams’ utility. A quality improvement project was conducted at five stem cell drives from 2017 to 2018 at which recruiters did or did not show the diagrams to potential donors. Following the drives, registrants were invited to complete a survey exploring their experience, knowledge and attitude towards donation.

Results

The diagrams were implemented in Canada in 07/2016. Of 293 participating registrants (24·7% non‐Caucasian males) recruited at five drives between 2017 and 2018, 76% (n = 197) were shown the diagrams. Participants who were shown the diagrams were significantly more likely to report that the recruiters appeared very knowledgeable (89% vs. 76%, P = 0·019) and to report improved self‐reported knowledge of stem cell donation (P = 0·010) compared to participants not shown the diagram. Data are also shown demonstrating that stakeholders in donor recruitment used and valued the diagrams and that use of the diagrams was associated with improved donor recruitment outcomes in Canada.

Conclusion

This report is the first evaluation of stem cell collection diagrams in the literature. The diagrams are relevant to donor registries, recruitment organizations and transplant centres worldwide, and their use may support efforts to educate and recruit committed, ethnically diverse donors.
How Does the Entrepreneurs’ Financial, Human, Social and Psychological Capitals Impact Entrepreneur’S Success?
Authors: Elsafty Ashraf , Abadir Dalia , Shaarawy Ashraf
Published: September 2020

The literature has widely covered the factors that determine the success of entrepreneurial ventures from financial and organizational perspectives. This study intends to tackle how the Financial Capital, the Human Capital, the Social Capital, and the Psychological Capital of the Entrepreneur affect Entrepreneurial Success. Despite that the Financial, Human, and Social Capitals are extensively examined in the literature as they relate to entrepreneurial success, this paper will add the psychological capital of the entrepreneur and examine its effect on entrepreneurial success in Egypt.This study aimed to investigate the effect of Financial Capital, Human Capital, Social Capital, and Psychological Capital on Entrepreneurial Success using a cross-sectional survey. Respondents were the owners and founders of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Cairo, Egypt. The results revealed that Social Capital and Psychological capital had a statistical significance as well as a positive strong relationship with Entrepreneurial success, while the Financial Capital and the Human Capital had statistical insignificance as well as a positive weak to a very weak relationship with Entrepreneurial success respectively.The study findings suggested that entrepreneurial success is strongly connected to the intangible resources of the entrepreneur, which are Social Capital and Psychological Capital, and that the Psychological Capital had the highest impact on Entrepreneurial success. However, the impact of the Financial Capital and Human Capital on Entrepreneurial Success was statistically insignificant.
Effect of Perceptual Factors in the Relationship between a Referent and Objects around the Referent on Young Children’s Interpretation of Word Meanings
Authors: Tamura Takahiro
Published: September 2020

The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of perceptual factors in the relationship between a referent and objects around the referent on young children’s interpretation of word meanings. Participants were 60 children aged 5 years (35 girls, 25 boys; mean age: 5 years 7 months). They participated in a task of interpreting the meaning of nonsense words with high and low inclusiveness conditions. Participants were likely to perceive that objects around the target object included the target object in the high inclusiveness condition. On the other hand, they were not likely to do so in the low inclusiveness condition. As a result, in the high inclusiveness condition, they were likely to speculate that the nonsense label was the name for the target taken together with the object around the target, while in the low inclusiveness condition, they understood it as the name of the target item. The results showed that detailed perceptual factors, such as inclusiveness of the referent and objects around the referent, affected children’s language development process.
A Thompson Sampling Efficient Multi-Objective Optimization Algorithm (TSEMO) for Lithium-Ion Battery Liquid-Cooled Thermal Management System: Study of Hydrodynamic, Thermodynamic, and Structural Performance
Authors: Garg A. , Liu Cheng , Jishnu A. K. , Gao Liang , Le Phung My Loan , Tran Van Man
Published: September 2020

The efficient design of battery thermal management systems (BTMSs) plays an important role in enhancing the performance, life, and safety of electric vehicles (EVs). This paper aims at designing and optimizing cold plate-based liquid cooling BTMS. Pitch sizes of channels, inlet velocity, and inlet temperature of the outermost channel are considered as design parameters. Evaluating the influence and optimization of design parameters by repeated computational fluid dynamics calculations is time consuming. To tackle this, the effect of design parameters is studied by using surrogate modeling. Optimized design variables should ensure a perfect balance between certain conflicting goals, namely, cooling efficiency, BTMS power consumption (parasitic power), and size of the battery. Therefore, the optimization problem is decoupled into hydrodynamic performance, thermodynamic performance, and mechanical structure performance. The optimal design involving multiple conflicting objectives in BTMS is solved by adopting the Thompson sampling efficient multi-objective optimization algorithm. The results obtained are as follows. The optimized average battery temperature after optimization decreased from 319.86 K to 319.2759 K by 0.18%. The standard deviation of battery temperature decreased from 5.3347 K to 5.2618 K by 1.37%. The system pressure drop decreased from 7.3211 Pa to 3.3838 Pa by 53.78%. The performance of the optimized battery cooling system has been significantly improved.
Deconstruction of Idea Generation Methods Into a Framework of Creativity Mechanisms
Authors: Kirjavainen Senni , Hölttä-Otto Katja
Published: September 2020

Creative ideas are a central part of design thinking, whether solving engineering problems, generating interesting art, as well as developing successful products and innovations. Idea generation methods are a well-researched topic, and there is significant research that focuses on specific idea generation methods and how they perform. Furthermore, several method classifications have been suggested to help understand the cognitive mechanisms involved in creative ideation as well as differences between methods. Yet, the discourse is usually on which ideation method outperforms another or how to improve an ideation method rather than the elements, rules, constraints, and activities that comprise ideation methods. In this study, 88 well-documented idea generation methods are reviewed and analyzed. We find all analyzed methods consist of 25 basic mechanisms. The mechanisms are discussed and classified into idea promoting and implementation mechanisms. We suggest that rather than focusing research only on methods, there should be a parallel track of research on these mechanisms and their interactions to help increase our understanding of creativity methods, add understanding for practitioners on how to get the best advantages out of creativity methods, and finally improve the way that practical creativity is approached in education.
Microstructure and Wear Behavior of Nano-TiB2p/2024Al Matrix Composites Fabricated by Laser Direct Energy Deposition With Powder Feeding
Authors: Wang Q. Z. , Lin X. , Wen X. L. , Kang N. , Huang W. D.
Published: September 2020

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of TiB2 content on the microstructure and wear behavior of nano-TiB2p/2024Al composites fabricated by laser direct energy deposition (L-DED). The dry sliding friction and wear behavior was evaluated using a ball-on-disk tribometer by sliding samples against a 6-mm diameter GCr15 (AISI52100) steel ball under applied loads of 2.2 N at room temperature. Microstructural characterization of the as-deposited 2024Al alloy showed the presence of oriented columnar grains. Once 3 wt% TiB2 particles were introduced, the as-deposited microstructure consisted of a mixture of columnar and equiaxed grains. It was found that the addition of TiB2 particles can significantly improve the wear resistance of L-DEDed 2024Al. For instance, the wear-rate of an 8 wt% TiB2p/2024Al matrix composite with full equiaxed grains is almost 20 times lower than that of the unreinforced alloy. A grain morphology-induced wear mechanism for the L-DEDed TiB2p/2024Al composites is proposed and is dominated by mutual oxidation and abrasive wear. The research results are beneficial to understand the wear mechanism of L-DEDed nano-TiB2p/2024Al matrix composites and can also provide theoretical guidance for the selection of TiB2 content.
The Application of the Modified Sage-Husa Adaptive Kalman Filter in the Excitation Force Identification of Under-Chassis Active Equipment for Railway Vehicles
Authors: Chen Jiangxue , Zhou Jinsong , Gong Dao , Sun Wenjing , Sun Yu , You Taiwen , Ji Yuanjin
Published: September 2020

Excitation force of under-chassis active equipment of railway vehicles has a significant impact on the floor vibration of the car body. In order to improve the accuracy of the excitation force identification of active equipment in engineering practice, a new excitation force identification method was proposed by applying modified Sage-Husa adaptive Kalman filter (MSHAKF). First, the advantages of the MSHAKF over conventional Kalman filter (CKF) are introduced. Simulation shows that the MSHAKF has excellent exactness and robustness for active equipment excitation force identification. Finally, a test device for identifying excitation force was established. The infinite impulse response (IIR) low-pass filter is designed by using the bilinear transformation method to eliminate the identification error caused by the frequency multiplication components in the response signal. The experimental result shows that the proposed method is very effective in engineering practice without mastering the noise characteristics of the system.
A Novel Accelerometer Mounting Method for Sensing Performance Improvement in Acoustic Measurements From the Knee
Authors: Ozmen Goktug C. , Safaei Mohsen , Lan Lan , Inan Omer T.
Published: September 2020

In this study, we propose a new mounting method to improve accelerometer sensing performance in the 50 Hz–10 kHz frequency band for knee sound measurement. The proposed method includes a thin double-sided adhesive tape for mounting and a 3D-printed custom-designed backing prototype. In our mechanical setup with an electrodynamic shaker, the measurements showed a 13 dB increase in the accelerometer's sensing performance in the 1–10 kHz frequency band when it is mounted with the craft tape under 2 N backing force applied through low-friction tape. As a proof-of-concept study, knee sounds of healthy subjects (n = 10) were recorded. When the backing force was applied, we observed statistically significant (p < 0.01) incremental changes in spectral centroid, spectral roll-off frequencies, and high-frequency (1–10 kHz) root-mean-square (RMS) acceleration, while low-frequency (50 Hz–1 kHz) RMS acceleration remained unchanged. The mean spectral centroid and spectral roll-off frequencies increased from 0.8 kHz and 4.15 kHz to 1.35 kHz and 5.9 kHz, respectively. The mean high-frequency acceleration increased from 0.45 mgRMS to 0.9 mgRMS with backing. We showed that the backing force improves the sensing performance of the accelerometer when mounted with the craft tape and the proposed backing prototype. This new method has the potential to be implemented in today's wearable systems to improve the sensing performance of accelerometers in knee sound measurements.
A Novel Type of Bi-Gyroscopic System Undergoing Both Rotating and Spinning Motions
Authors: Yang Ji-Hou , Yang Xiao-Dong , Qian Ying-Jing , Zhang Wei
Published: September 2020

In order to explore the influence of combined gyroscopic coupling effect on the gyroscopic system, the dynamics of a beam undergoing both rotating and spinning motions as a bi-gyroscopic system is studied. The natural frequencies, modes, and stability of such a bi-gyroscopic system have been studied by the standard eigenvalue problems. The bifurcation series of frequencies and corresponding modal motions have been presented to show the gyroscopically coupled motions. The complex modes of the proposed bi-gyroscopic systems, such as whirling motions and in-plane reeling motions, have been illustrated.
Nonlinear Coupled Torsion/Lateral Vibration and Sommerfeld Behavior in a Double U-Joint Driveshaft
Authors: Yao Wei , DeSmidt Hans
Published: September 2020

Many driveline systems are designed to accommodate angular misalignment by the use of flexible couplings or Universal Joints (U-Joints) which link individual shaft segments. The Sommerfeld effect is a nonlinear phenomenon observed in some rotor systems being driven through a critical speed when there is not enough power to accelerate the rotor through resonance. Previous studies have shown that rotor speed can become captured when transitioning through natural frequencies due to nonlinear interactions between a non-ideal driving input and rotor imbalance. This paper, for the first time, shows that this type of rotor speed capture phenomena can also be induced by driveline misalignment. During rotor spinup under constant motor torque, it is found that misalignment-induced rotor speed capture phenomena can occur as the shaft speed approaches ½ the first elastic torsional natural frequency. Depending on misalignment level and motor torque, the shaft speed will either dwell near this speed and then pass through, or the speed will become trapped. Here, a nonlinear rotordynamics model of a segmented driveshaft connected by two U-joints including effects of angular misalignment and load torque is developed for the study. This analysis also determines the minimum driveline misalignment angle for which the shaft speed capture phenomena will occur for a given motor torque and load torque condition.
Wave packet interactions in a thin aluminum plate partially immersed in water
Authors: Liu Huan , Liu Ting , Su Yu , Fan Ya-Xian , Tao Zhi-Yong
Published: September 2020

When investigating the wave propagation and mode conversions in a thin aluminum plate partially immersed in water, a kind of wave packet interaction was observed. It was found that the transmitted ultrasonic signal consists of different wave packets, which contain essential information of different wave types. When the incident angle is very small, the signals can be identified as the major wave packet followed by its tail. The major packet includes the information of the incident wave while the tail is related to the mode conversion and propagation in the plate. When the incident angle increased, the major packet was literally engulfed by its tail, indicating that the directly transmitted incident ultrasound disappeared and more energy was coupled into the plate. The interactions between different wave packets found here reveal the excitation and propagation mechanisms of Lamb waves in plates, which would benefit applications in ultrasonic imaging, signal recognition, underwater acoustic communication, and so on.
Response of Blood Biomarkers to Sprint Interval Swimming
Authors: Kabasakalis Athanasios , Nikolaidis Stefanos , Tsalis George , Mougios Vassilis
Published: September 2020

Purpose: To evaluate and compare the effects of 2 sprint interval training (SIT) sets of different distances on biochemical markers indicative of metabolism, stress, and antioxidant capacity in competitive swimmers and, to investigate the potential influence of gender on these markers. Methods: Twenty-four adolescent, well-trained swimmers (12 men and 12 women) participated in the study. In a random and counterbalanced order, the swimmers completed 2 SIT sets (8 × 50 m and 8 × 25 m) in freestyle with maximal intensity on different days. Work-to-rest ratio was 1:1 in both sets. Blood samples were drawn preexercise, immediately postexercise, and 1 hour postexercise to evaluate the effects of the SIT sets on a number of biochemical parameters. Results: Swimming speed was higher at 8 × 25 m. The 2 SIT sets induced significant increases in lactate, glucose, insulin, glucagon, cortisol, and uric acid (P ≤ .001). No differences in these parameters were found between sets, except for irisin (higher in 8 × 50 m; P = .02). Male swimmers were faster and had higher lactate and uric acid concentrations, as well as lower reduced glutathione concentration, than female swimmers (P < .01). Conclusions: The 2 swimming SIT sets induced increases in most of the biochemical markers studied. The 2-fold difference between sets in distance did not differentiate the effects of sprint interval exercise on most biochemical parameters. Thus, low-volume SIT sets seem to be effective stimuli for competitive swimmers.
A century of observations reveals increasing likelihood of continental-scale compound dry-hot extremes
Authors: Alizadeh Mohammad Reza , Adamowski Jan , Nikoo Mohammad Reza , AghaKouchak Amir , Dennison Philip , Sadegh Mojtaba
Published: September 2020

Compound dry-hot events enlarge homogenously due to teleconnected land-atmosphere feedbacks.
Explosive-effusive volcanic eruption transitions caused by sintering
Authors: Wadsworth Fabian B. , Llewellin Edward W. , Vasseur Jérémie , Gardner James E. , Tuffen Hugh
Published: September 2020

Explosive volcanic eruptions become effusive, or end, when the vent becomes plugged with sintered pyroclastic material.
Broadband quadrature-squeezed vacuum and nonclassical photon number correlations from a nanophotonic device
Authors: Vaidya V. D. , Morrison B. , Helt L. G. , Shahrokshahi R. , Mahler D. H. , Collins M. J. , Tan K. , Lavoie J. , Repingon A. , Menotti M. , Quesada N. , Pooser R. C. , Lita A. E. , Gerrits T. , Nam S. W. , Vernon Z.
Published: September 2020

Nanophotonic resonators can generate broadband quadrature squeezing and single temporal mode photon number difference squeezing.
Infants tailor their attention to maximize learning
Authors: Poli F. , Serino G. , Mars R. B. , Hunnius S.
Published: September 2020

From early on, humans’ allocation of attention and information processing are directed toward the maximization of learning.
Microenvironment modulation of single-atom catalysts and their roles in electrochemical energy conversion
Authors: Li Xuning , Liu Linghui , Ren Xinyi , Gao Jiajian , Huang Yanqiang , Liu Bin
Published: September 2020

Microenvironment engineering of single-atom catalysts paves the way toward efficient electrochemical energy conversion.
The coupling mechanism of mammalian respiratory complex I
Authors: Kampjut Domen , Sazanov Leonid A.
Published: September 2020

Secrets of a proton pumping machine

Mitochondrial complex I serves as a primary entry point for electrons from the tricarboxylic acid cycle into the mitochondrial electron transport chain. This massive, membrane-embedded protein complex must couple quinone reduction to conformational changes across more than 150 angstroms within four separate proton pumps. Kampjut
et al.
determined five structures of complex I in states along the catalytic cycle, a deactive conformation, and one with the inhibitor rotenone bound. The resolution of some structures was sufficient to see water molecules and to trace putative paths for proton transfer within the proton-pumping membrane domain. The structures add valuable details that provide a basis for generating mechanistic hypotheses for this crucial complex.

Science
, this issue p.
eabc4209
A more human prosthetic hand
Authors: Nazarpour Kianoush
Published: September 2020

Co-creation leads the way for bioinspired prosthetics with improved design and performance.
Building a better way to mend a broken heart
Authors: Keller Steven P.
Published: September 2020

A novel hybrid pulsatile ventricular assist device uses an endothelialized pump surface to achieve biocompatibility.
A Cross-Sectional Cohort Study of Extended-Spectrum-Beta-Lactamase-Producing
Enterobacterales
in Patients with Traveler's Diarrhea
Authors: Ljungquist Oskar , Camporeale Angela , Nematzadeh Shoeib , Giske Christian G. , Resman Fredrik , Riesbeck Kristian , Tham Johan
Published: September 2020

Patients with traveler’s diarrhea (TD) can acquire extended-spectrum-beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing members of the
Enterobacterales
(EPE) during travel to areas of endemicity. The aim of the present study was to investigate the prevalence and characteristics of EPE carriage in travelers from southern Sweden who were sampled for bacterial diagnostics of TD compared to those of EPE carriage 10 years ago. Clinical samples sent for culture of common causes of bacterial enterocolitis, if the referral stated foreign travel, were included in the study.
Matched Case-Control Study of the Long-Term Impact of Beta-Lactam Antibiotic Allergy Testing
Authors: Trubiano Jason A. , Marhoon Nada , Vogrin Sara , Chua Kyra Y. L. , Holmes Natasha E.
Published: September 2020

Whereas the short-term impacts of antibiotic allergy testing on delabeling and antibiotic usage have been demonstrated, the long-term impacts have been less well defined. In a single-center matched case-control study from Melbourne, Australia, we demonstrate that a beta-lactam antibiotic allergy testing program has a significant impact on antibiotic usage and infection-related outcomes. This study supports implementation of an antibiotic allergy testing program as a standard of care of antimicrobial stewardship programs.
Sulfonated Nanomaterials with Broad-Spectrum Antiviral Activity Extending beyond Heparan Sulfate-Dependent Viruses
Authors: Cagno Valeria , Gasbarri Matteo , Medaglia Chiara , Gomes Diana , Clement Sophie , Stellacci Francesco , Tapparel Caroline
Published: September 2020

Viral infections are among the main causes of death worldwide, and we lack antivirals for the majority of viruses. Heparin-like sulfated or sulfonated compounds have been known for decades for their ability to prevent infection by heparan sulfate proteoglycan (HSPG)-dependent viruses but only in a reversible way. We have previously shown that gold nanoparticles and β-cyclodextrins coated with mercapto-undecane sulfonic acid (MUS) inhibit HSPG-dependent viruses irreversibly while retaining the low-toxicity profile of most heparin-like compounds.
Diamine Biosynthesis: Research Progress and Application Prospects
Authors: Wang Li , Li Guohui , Deng Yu
Published: September 2020

Diamines are important monomers for polyamide plastics; they include 1,3-diaminopropane, 1,4-diaminobutane, 1,5-diaminopentane, and 1,6-diaminohexane, among others. With increasing attention on environmental problems and green sustainable development, utilizing renewable raw materials for the synthesis of diamines is crucial for the establishment of a sustainable plastics industry. Recently, high-performance microbial factories, such as
Escherichia coli
and
Corynebacterium glutamicum
, have been widely used in the production of diamines.
Success of Escherichia coli O25b:H4 Sequence Type 131 Clade C Associated with a Decrease in Virulence
Authors: Duprilot Marion , Baron Alexandra , Blanquart François , Dion Sara , Pouget Cassandra , Lettéron Philippe , Flament-Simon Saskia-Camille , Clermont Olivier , Denamur Erick , Nicolas-Chanoine Marie-Hélène
Published: September 2020

Escherichia coli
O25b:H4 sequence type 131 (ST131), which is resistant to fluoroquinolones and which is a producer of CTX-M-15, is globally one of the major extraintestinal pathogenic
E. coli
(ExPEC) lineages. Phylogenetic analyses showed that multidrug-resistant ST131 strains belong to clade C, which recently emerged from clade B by stepwise evolution. It has been hypothesized that features other than multidrug resistance could contribute to this dissemination since other major global ExPEC lineages (ST73 and ST95) are mostly antibiotic susceptible.
Long-term efficacy of early infliximab-induced remission for refractory uveoretinitis associated with Behçet’s disease
Authors: Keino Hiroshi , Watanabe Takayo , Nakayama Makiko , Komagata Yoshinori , Fukuoka Kazuhito , Okada Annabelle A
Published: September 2020

Background

To evaluate long-term efficacy of infliximab (IFX) in refractory uveoretinitis associated with Behçet’s disease (BD) depending on uveoretinitis duration.

Methods

Records of 16 patients with BD (32 eyes) followed for >5 years after starting IFX, were retrospectively reviewed. Long-term efficacy was compared between patients with short duration (≤18 months, n=7) versus long duration (>18 months, n=9) of their uveoretinitis prior to starting IFX.

Results

The median follow-up after starting IFX was 132 months (76–146 months). Mean frequency of attacks and the 1-year Behçet’s Disease Ocular Attack Score 24 decreased significantly over 10 years. Overall, the percentage of eyes with a best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) ≥1.0 increased from 47% at baseline to 59% at 5 years; the percentage of eyes with a BCVA ≤0.1 was 19% at both baseline and 5 years. The frequency of ocular attacks decreased similarly in both short duration and long duration groups; however, the percentage of eyes with a BCVA ≥1.0 at 5 years was 100% in the short duration group versus 28% in the long duration group. IFX was discontinued in four patients with an excellent response to IFX therapy; all were young male patients in the short duration group with good BCVA bilaterally, and none had inflammatory recurrences over a median follow-up of 56 months off IFX.

Conclusion

Initiation of IFX therapy in patients with BD within 18 months of their uveoretinitis onset was more effective in maintaining good BCVA than after 18 months.
What is the impact of Apps in medical education? A study of CAPSULE, a case-based learning App
Authors: Sadler Jonathan , Wright Juliet , Vincent Timothy , Kurka Thomas , Howlett David
Published: September 2020

Introduction

Mobile applications (Apps) are popular in medical education; yet, the actual benefits for students are yet to be formally researched. Clinical And Professional Studies Unique Learning Environment (CAPSULE) is an App created by Brighton and Sussex Medical School. The App provides 650 cases offered to students in their final two years of the undergraduate programme. The App performed consistently well in student feedback, and therefore, a study into the educational benefits of the App was constructed.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was performed following two years of use by students to investigate the relationship between App usage and decile ranking.

Results

The study found that the students who completed more cases tended to score higher per case (p value=0.0037). The study also found a trend between having higher case scores and being part of a stronger decile (p value=0.019).

Conclusions

Greater App usage was linked with performing better in the App itself and this was further associated with being in a stronger decile rank. From a user perspective, the data generated from the App could help with identifying students who are underperforming or help students to recognise areas on which they need to focus.
Community frailty response service: the ED at your front door
Authors: McNamara Rosa , Donnelly Kerri , Boyle Nichola , Menzies David , Hollywood Rebecca , Little Elizabeth , Tiernan Eoin , Donohoe Karen , Delaney Aidan , Duffy Fionnuala , Feeney Eoin , O"Hanlon Shane
Published: September 2020

We describe the expansion and adaptation of a frailty response team to assess older people in their usual place of residence. The team had commenced a weekend service to a limited area in February 2020. As a consequence of demand related to the COVID-19 pandemic, we expanded it and adapted the model of care to provide a 7-day service to our entire catchment area. Five hundred and ninety two patient reviews have been completed in the first 105 days of operation with 43 patients transferred to hospital for further investigation or management following assessment.
Amyloid PET imaging in clinical practice
Authors: Kolanko Magdalena A , Win Zarni , Loreto Flavia , Patel Neva , Carswell Christopher , Gontsarova Anastassia , Perry Richard J , Malhotra Paresh A
Published: September 2020

Amyloid positron emission tomography (PET) imaging enables in vivo detection of brain Aβ deposition, one of the neuropathological hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease. There is increasing evidence to support its clinical utility, with major studies showing that amyloid PET imaging improves diagnostic accuracy, increases diagnostic certainty and results in therapeutic changes. The Amyloid Imaging Taskforce has developed appropriate use criteria to guide clinicians by predefining certain scenarios where amyloid PET would be justified. This review provides a practical guide on how and when to use amyloid PET, based on the available research and our own experience. We discuss its three main appropriate indications and illustrate these with clinical cases. We stress the importance of a multidisciplinary approach when deciding who might benefit from amyloid PET imaging. Finally, we highlight some practical points and common pitfalls in its interpretation.
Myotonic dystrophy: a cause of acute breathlessness not to be missed
Authors: Kramarz Caroline , Turner Abigail , Alakbarzade Vafa , Mclean Brendan
Published: September 2020

Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1), the most common muscular dystrophy in adults, is an autosomal dominant disorder with a wide phenotypic spectrum ranging from oligosymptomatic forms to a life-threatening, multisystem disease. People with DM1 overall have a reduced life expectancy, mainly due to respiratory or cardiac causes. There is no cure but prompt, appropriate symptom management is essential to limit disease-related complications. We present a case of DM1, unrecognised when the patient presented with recurrent type 2 respiratory failure, and initially misdiagnosed as Guillain-Barré syndrome. This misdiagnosis subsequently led to unnecessary investigation and treatment before further detailed neurological examination and collateral family history gave the diagnosis. This case highlights the importance of considering a chronic neuromuscular disorder in patients presenting with acute respiratory failure and an unusual pattern of weakness.
Comparison of carotid artery ultrasound and Framingham risk score for discriminating coronary artery disease in patients with psoriatic arthritis
Authors: Cheng Isaac T , Wong Ka Tak , Li Edmund K , Wong Priscilla C H , Lai Billy T , Yim Isaac C , Ying Shirley K , Kwok Kitty Y , Li Martin , Li Tena K , Lee Jack J , Lee Alex P , Tam Lai-Shan
Published: September 2020

Objectives

This study aimed to assess the performance of carotid ultrasound (US) parameters alone or in combination with Framingham Risk Score (FRS) in discriminating patients with psoriatic arthritis (PsA) with and without coronary artery disease (CAD).

Methods

Ninety-one patients with PsA (56 males; age: 50±11 years, disease duration: 9.4±9.2 years) without overt cardiovascular (CV) diseases were recruited. Carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT), the presence of plaque and total plaque area (TPA) was determined by high-resolution US. CAD was defined as the presence of any coronary plaque on coronary CT angiography (CCTA). Obstructive-CAD (O-CAD) was defined as >50% stenosis of the lumen.

Results

Thirty-five (38%) patients had carotid plaque. Fifty-four (59%) patients had CAD (CAD+) and 9 (10%) patients had O-CAD (O-CAD+). No significant associations between the presence of carotid plaque and CAD were found. However, cIMT and TPA were higher in both the CAD+ and O-CAD+ group compared with the CAD− or O-CAD− groups, respectively. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that mean cIMT was an independent explanatory variable associated with CAD and O-CAD, while maximum cIMT and TPA were independent explanatory variables associated with O-CAD after adjusting for covariates. The optimal cut-offs for detecting the presence of CAD were FRS >5% and mean cIMT at 0.62 mm (AUC: 0.71; sensitivity: 67%; specificity: 76%), while the optimal cut-offs for detecting the presence of O-CAD were FRS >10% in combination with mean cIMT at 0.73 mm (AUC: 0.71; sensitivity: 56%; specificity: 85%).

Conclusion

US parameters including cIMT and TPA may be considered in addition to FRS for CV risk stratification in patients with PsA.
Staged angioplasty versus regular carotid artery stenting in patients with carotid artery stenosis at high risk of hyperperfusion: a randomised clinical trial
Authors: Mo Dapeng , Jia Baixue , Shi Huaizhang , Sun Yaxuan , Liu Qingan , Fan Chengzhe , Deng Jianping , Yuan Jinglin , Wu Wei , Jiang Changchun , Zhang Guilian , Du Hanjun , Ma Ning , Gao Feng , Sun Xuan , Song Ligang , Liu Lian , Peng Guangge , Wang Yongjun , Wang Yilong , Miao Zhongrong
Published: September 2020

Background and purpose

Hyperperfusion (HP) is a devastating complication associated with carotid artery stenting (CAS) or endarterectomy. The efficacy and safety of staged angioplasty (SAP) in patients with CAS at high risk of HP remains unclear. We sought to determine whether SAP is superior to regular CAS in patients with high risk of HP.

Methods

A randomised, multicentre open-label clinical trial with blinded outcome assessment (STEP) was conducted. Patients with severe carotid stenosis at high risk of HP were randomly assigned (1:1) to the SAP or regular CAS group. The primary endpoint was hyperperfusion syndrome (HPS) and intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH) within 30 days after the procedure.

Results

From November 2014 to January 2017, a total of 64 patients were enrolled in 11 centres. 33 patients were allocated to the SAP group and 31 to the regular CAS group. At 30 days, the rate of primary endpoint was 0.0% (0/33) in the SAP group and 9.7% (3/31) in the regular CAS group (absolute risk reduction (ARR), 9.7%; 95% CI −20.1% to 0.7%; p=0.11). As one of the secondary endpoints, the incidence of HP phenomenon (HPP) was lower in the SAP group than the regular CAS group (0.0% vs 22.6%, ARR,−22.6%; 95% CI −36.8% to −10.2%; p=0.04).

Conclusion

The rate of HPS and ICH was not significantly lower in SAP group; the extended secondary endpoint of HPP, however, significantly reduced, which suggested that SAP may be a safe and effective carotid revascularisation procedure to prevent HP.

Trial registration number

NCT02224209.
Experimental modelling of seasonal thermal energy storage within unconfined aquifer (ATES)
Authors: Charlwood S.P. , Madabhushi S.P.G.
Published: September 2020

Aquifer thermal energy storage systems allow the storage of excess heat from summer for use during the winter. This investigation looks at the suitability of a small-scale experimental model as a method for simulating the behaviour of full-scale unconfined aquifers for thermal storage. Thermal energy was stored via the injection of 40, 60, and 80 °C water for a period of 1000 s with extraction being between 1000 and 2000 s. Furthermore, periods of storage between injection and extraction were introduced to simulate potential full-scale heating and cooling demand scenarios. Thermal efficiencies were found to be ∼60% reducing to ∼53% with the addition of a 1000 s storage period. Furthermore, for the model tested in this investigation the temperature of the injected water was found to have little influence upon the efficiency.
Germination time influences post-germination life-history traits and progeny seed germination patterns in the desert annual Erodium laciniatum (Geraniaceae)
Authors: Gomaa Nasr H.
Published: September 2020

Annual plants in arid regions germinate at different times within a growing season, from early in the season to late, and this may affect post-germination traits. For this study, I tested the effect of germination timing on post-germination life-history traits, including progeny seed germination in the desert annual Erodium laciniatum var. pulverulentum (Cav.) Boiss. Traits of November- and February-germinated individuals were studied in a field survey carried out in northwestern Saudi Arabia, and the germination of freshly matured and after-ripened seeds from both early- and late-germinated plants was assessed. Overall, E. laciniatum showed significant phenotypic plasticity in life-history traits arising from different germination times. Density, survivorship and reproductive success of early-germinated plants were all significantly greater than for those that germinated later. Late-germinated plants flowered earlier, bolted at smaller size and allocated more biomass to reproduction than did early-germinated individuals. Delayed germination shortened both flowering period and life span. Seeds produced by late-germinated plants had greater germination percentage than did seeds from early-germinated plants.
Exercise ameliorates insulin resistance and improves SIRT6-mediated insulin signaling transduction in liver of obese rats
Authors: Zhang Yong , Yang Zhiwei , Xu Zhen , Wan Jianyong , Hua Tianmiao , Sun Qingyan
Published: September 2020

Physical exercise is essential for the amelioration of insulin resistance (IR). The mechanisms in charge of improved IR, regulated by exercise, are insufficiently studied. Previous research revealed that Sirtuin 6 (SIRT6) – mediated insulin signaling acts a crucial element in hepatic IR. The objective of our research was to determine the effects of exercise on SIRT6-mediated insulin signaling in liver of IR rats. Forty male Sprague Dawley rats were randomly assigned to four groups (n = 10 rats each): control rats fed with standard chow (Lean group); sedentary rats fed with a high-fat diet (HFD-SED); rats fed with HFD and submitted to 8 week chronic swimming exercise training (HFD-CE); and rats fed HFD and submitted to one acute swimming exercise training (HFD-AE). HFD feeding lead to increased body weight, accumulation of hepatic triglyceride and serum free fatty acids, and enhanced gluconeogenesis. Besides, HFD feeding decreased body insulin sensitivity. Hepatic USP10 and SIRT6 protein levels decreased under obese status. Both chronic and acute exercise intervention alleviated physiological and metabolic status, increased hepatic USP10 and SIRT6 levels, improved insulin signaling transduction, and inhibited gluconeogenesis. These results showed that exercise intervention regulated SIRT6-mediated insulin signaling, which contributes to our understanding of the molecular mechanisms behind IR, in that a regular exercise can mitigate the effects of IR.
Electrochemical Determination of Naloxone Using Molecularly Imprinted Poly(para-phenylenediamine) Sensor
Authors: Shaabani Narges , Chan Nora W. C. , Lee William Edward , Jemere Abebaw B.
Published: September 2020

A molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP)-based electrochemical sensor featuring an electrochemically grafted para-phenylenediamine functional monomer on a reduced graphene oxide-gold nanoparticles composite modified screen printed electrode is reported. The morphology and properties of the sensing material were characterized with microscopy, spectroscopy and electrochemical techniques. A number of factors affecting the performance of the MIP sensor were examined and optimized. Under an optimized condition, the imprinted electrochemical sensor yielded homogenous naloxone binding sites with a dissociation constant of 8.6 μM, and responded linearly up to 8 μM naloxone, with a limit of detection of 0.16 μM. The sensor showed good run-to-run repeatability and batch-to-batch performance reproducibility with relative standard deviation of 5.7%–9.6% (n = 4) and <9% (n = 3), respectively. The imprinted sensor retained 95% and 85% of its performance when stored at ambient conditions for one and two weeks, respectively, demonstrating the sensor’s good stability. Selectivity experiments showed that both the MIP sensor and non-imprinted polymer electrode had minimal response (<25%) to equal concentrations of structurally similar compounds such as morphine, naltrexone and noroxymorphone, indicating good selectivity of the MIP sensor towards naloxone. The MIP sensor was successfully used to quantify naloxone in artificial urine samples, yielding recoveries greater than 92%.
The serotonin reuptake transporter is reduced in the epithelium of active Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis
Authors: Jørandli Jonas Woll , Thorsvik Silje , Skovdahl Helene Kolstad , Kornfeld Benedikt , Sæterstad Siri , Gustafsson Björn Inge , Sandvik Arne Kristian , van Beelen Granlund Atle
Published: September 2020

The serotonin reuptake transporter is potently reduced in inflamed areas of Crohn’s ileitis, Crohn’s colitis, and ulcerative colitis. The changes are localized to the intestinal epithelium and can be induced by TNF-α. The serotonin synthesis through tryptophan hydroxylase 1 is unchanged. This regulation is suggested as a mechanism underlying the increased extracellular serotonin levels associated with intestinal inflammation.
A Review of Membrane Computing Models for Complex Ecosystems and a Case Study on a Complex Giant Panda System
Authors: Duan Yingying , Rong Haina , Qi Dunwu , Valencia-Cabrera Luis , Zhang Gexiang , Pérez-Jiménez Mario J.
Published: September 2020

Ecosystem modelling based on membrane computing is emerging as a powerful way to study the dynamics of (real) ecological populations. These models, providing distributed parallel devices, have shown a great potential to imitate the rich features observed in the behaviour of species and their interactions and key elements to understand and model ecosystems. Compared with differential equations, membrane computing models, also known as P systems, can model more complex biological phenomena due to their modularity and their ability to enclose the evolution of different environments and simulate, in parallel, different interrelated processes. In this paper, a comprehensive survey of membrane computing models for ecosystems is given, taking a giant panda ecosystem as an example to assess the model performance. This work aims at modelling a number of species using P systems with different membrane structure types to predict the number of individuals depending on parameters such as reproductive rate, mortality rate, and involving processes as rescue or release. Firstly, the computing models are introduced conceptually, describing the main elements constituting the syntax of these systems and explaining the semantics of the rules involved. Next, various modelled species (including endangered animals, plants, and bacteria) are summarized, and some computer tools are presented. Then, a discussion follows on the use of P systems for ecosystem modelling. Finally, a case study on giant pandas in Chengdu Base is analysed, concluding that the study in this field by using PDP systems can provide a valuable tool to deepen into the knowledge about the evolution of the population. This could ultimately help in the decision-making processes of the managers of the ecosystem to increase the species diversity and modify the adaptability. Besides, the impacts of natural disasters on the population dynamics of the species should also be considered. The analysis performed throughout the paper has taken into consideration this fact in order to increase the reliability of the prospects making use of the models designed.
Antiplasmodial and Genotoxic Study of Selected Ghanaian Medicinal Plants
Authors: Adukpo Selorme , Elewosi Doris , Asmah Richard Harry , Nyarko Alexander K. , Ekpe Patrick Kwaku , Edoh Dominic Adotei , Ofori Michael Fokua
Published: September 2020

Ethnopharmacological Relevance. Development of resistance to antimalarial drugs by Plasmodium falciparum is still rampant, and there is an urgent need for novel drugs to either standalone or to partner artemisinin for treatment of malaria. Traditionally, plants have, over the years, been a good source of antimalarial drugs. Efficacy and safety of such plants need to be scientifically authenticated. Aims, Materials, and Method. This study investigated the in vitro antiplasmodial activity, cytotoxicity, and genotoxicity of aqueous extracts of Acanthospermum hispidum DC, Alstonia boone (De Wild), Cocos nucifera L, Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf, Morinda lucida Benth, Psidium guajava, Phyllanthus niruri L, and Senna siamea Lam. Results. Five out of the eight plants, A. boonei stem bark, S; siamea Lam root, M. lucida Benth leaves, P. niruri, and A. hispidum DC whole plants, showed varying degrees of antiplasmodial activity against the asexual stage of the parasite. The most active extract against chloroquine‐sensitive (3D7) and chloroquine‐resistant (Dd2) P. falciparum strains is the A. hispidum extract which yielded a mean inhibitory concentration at 50% (IC50) of 3.66 µg/ml and 3.71 µg/ml for 3D7 and Dd2, respectively. This was followed by S. siamea Lam with 3.95 µg/ml for 3D7 and 4.47 µg/ml for Dd2. The IC50 values of the A. boonei extract against 3D7 and Dd2 P. falciparum parasites were 5.13 µg/ml and 3.62 µg/ml, respectively. For the M. lucida Benth extract, the least IC50 value was 6.46 µg/ml. All five extracts exhibited dose‐dependent antiplasmodial activity. Assessment of the genotoxic effects the A. hispidum extract by the comet assay revealed substantial damage to P. falciparum DNA. Conclusion. This study demonstrates that the crude extract of A. hispidum DC, one of the plants used traditionally to treat malaria, inhibits the growth of P. falciparum in vitro and could be a potential source of antimalarial drug. The report has highlighted genotoxic and cytotoxic effects of the selected plant extracts on human leukocytes as well.