bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ecosystem size predicts the probability of speciation in migratory freshwater fish
Authors: Yamasaki Yo Y. , Takeshima Hirohiko , Kano Yuichi , Oseko Naoharu , Suzuki Toshiyuki , Nishida Mutsumi , Watanabe Katsutoshi
Published: March 2020

Predicting speciation is a fundamental goal of research in evolutionary ecology. The probability of speciation is often positively correlated with ecosystem size. Although the mechanisms driving this correlation are generally difficult to identify, a shared geographical and ecological context provides a suitable condition to study the mechanisms that promote speciation in large ecosystems by reducing the number of factors to be considered. Here, we determined the correlation between speciation and ecosystem size, and discuss the underlying mechanisms of this relationship, using a probable parallel ecotype formation for freshwater fish. Our population genetic analysis revealed that speciation of the landlocked goby, Rhinogobius sp. YB, of the Ryukyu Archipelago, Japan, from its migratory ancestor, R. brunneus, occurred in parallel across five islands. Logistic regression analysis showed that speciation probability could be predicted using island size. The results suggest that ecosystem size predicts the occurrence of adaptation and reproductive isolation, probably through its association with three possible factors: divergent selection strength, population persistence, and occurrence probability of habitat separation.
The photoreceptor UVR8 mediates the perception of both UV‐B and UV‐A wavelengths up to 350 nm of sunlight with responsivity moderated by cryptochromes
Authors: Rai Neha , O'Hara Andrew , Farkas Daniel , Safronov Omid , Ratanasopa Khuanpiroon , Wang Fang , Lindfors Anders V. , Jenkins Gareth I. , Lehto Tarja , Salojärvi Jarkko , Brosché Mikael , Strid Åke , Aphalo Pedro J. , Morales Luis O.
Published: March 2020

The photoreceptors UV RESISTANCE LOCUS 8 (UVR8) and CRYPTOCHROMES 1 and 2 (CRYs) play major roles in the perception of UV‐B (280–315 nm) and UV‐A/blue radiation (315–500 nm), respectively. However, it is poorly understood how they function in sunlight. The roles of UVR8 and CRYs were assessed in a factorial experiment with Arabidopsis thaliana wild‐type and photoreceptor mutants exposed to sunlight for 6 or 12 hr under five types of filters with cut‐offs in UV and blue‐light regions. Transcriptome‐wide responses triggered by UV‐B and UV‐A wavelengths shorter than 350 nm (UV‐Asw) required UVR8 whereas those induced by blue and UV‐A wavelengths longer than 350 nm (UV‐Alw) required CRYs. UVR8 modulated gene expression in response to blue light while lack of CRYs drastically enhanced gene expression in response to UV‐B and UV‐Asw. These results agree with our estimates of photons absorbed by these photoreceptors in sunlight and with in vitro monomerization of UVR8 by wavelengths up to 335 nm. Motif enrichment analysis predicted complex signaling downstream of UVR8 and CRYs. Our results highlight that it is important to use UV waveband definitions specific to plants' photomorphogenesis as is routinely done in the visible region.
Bortezomib for autoimmune hemolytic anemia after intestinal transplantation
Authors: Knops Noël , Emonds Marie‐Paule , Herman Jean , Levtchenko Elena , Mekahli Djalila , Pirenne Jacques , Van Geet Chris , Dierickx Daan
Published: March 2020

AIHA is rare in the general population and associated with a mortality of 8%. In contrast, AIHA occurs in up to 12.2% of cases after intestinal transplantation and is associated with mortality up to 50%. Treatment entails a “step‐up” approach including corticosteroids, IvIg, plasmapheresis, and rituximab. However, AIHA after transplantation often is refractory to this strategy, contributing to a poor outcome. We describe a child with microvillous inclusion disease who developed AIHA 1 year after multivisceral transplantation that was refractory to standard therapy and was subsequently treated with bortezomib.We observed remission of AIHA within 1 week after the start of bortezomib. Bortezomib was associated with transient diarrhea, leucopenia, and elevated liver enzymes. Three years later, he remains in remission without important complications. Published data on bortezomib for autoimmune cytopenias outside SOT are discussed. This is the first report to support bortezomib as an important therapeutic alternative for AIHA after SOT. The occurrence and treatment of AIHA after SOT, and specifically intestinal transplantation, should be the subject of future registry studies to collect additional experience and explore the optimal therapeutic approach.
Registered Nurses' medication administration skills: a systematic review
Authors: Luokkamäki Sanna , Härkänen Marja , Saano Susanna , Vehviläinen‐Julkunen Katri
Published: March 2020

Aims

The aim of this review was to identify methods for measuring Registered Nurses' medication administration skills and to describe these skills.

Design

A systematic literature review.

Data sources

The CINAHL, PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane, PsycInfo and Medic databases were searched for articles from the period 2007–2018.

Review methods

Two researchers independently selected the articles and evaluated their quality using the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute study quality assessment tools. The data were analysed using content analysis.

Results

A total of 727 studies were identified of which 22 studies were included in this review. A total of six different measurement methods were identified: questionnaire or survey, observation, knowledge test or exam, focus group interviews, chart reviews and voluntarily reported errors. Different methods provided different information on medication administration skills. Medication administration skills were classified under nine areas: (1) safe ordering, handling, storing and discarding of medications, (2) preparing of medications, (3) the administration of medications to patients, (4) documentation, (5) evaluation and assessment of medication‐related issues, (6) drug calculation skills, (7) cooperation with other professionals and (8) with the patients and (9) reporting of medication information. The results demonstrated that there are many areas that need to be improved to increase medication safety.

Conclusions

Medication administration includes many different phases, as a result of which nurses need to have many various skills to cope with medication administration as required by their profession. This review shows that nurses' medication administration skills need to be developed, and special attention should be paid to the preparation and administration phases. It is important to regularly utilise different teaching strategies and verify nurses' medication competence. As each research method has different limitations, it is vital that further studies combine different methods to form a comprehensive picture of nurses' medication administration skills.
Oncology nurses’ experiences of meeting with men with cancer‐related fatigue: a qualitative study
Authors: Robertsen Inger‐Lise , Skär Lisa
Published: March 2020

Background

Cancer treatment often causes side effects, among which fatigue is common and can persist for years among disease‐free cancer survivors. Living with fatigue can lead to reduced life expectancy and quality of life.

Aims and objectives

To describe oncology nurses’ experiences of meeting with men with cancer and talking about cancer‐related fatigue.

Design and Methods

The data were collected via semi‐structured interviews with nine oncology nurses recruited using a purposeful sampling method and analysed using thematic content analysis. This qualitative design was conducted to describe and interpret the content of experiences.

Ethical issues and approval

The study was approved by a regional Ethical Review Board, and research ethical principles were followed.

Results

The analysis revealed one major theme, namely take the whole person into consideration, and three subthemes: the importance of (i) establishing trust in the nurse–patient relationship, (ii) supporting the patient’s understanding of cancer‐related fatigue, and (iii) managing the challenging emotions experienced by patients. The major theme describes the oncology nurses’ approach when meeting with men with cancer‐related fatigue.

Conclusion

The results provide insight into how oncology nurses can increase their knowledge about fatigue to establish trust in nurse–patient relationships. They can acquire knowledge about how to make men with cancer‐related fatigue feel safe when handling their daily lives despite their fatigue. Oncology nurses require knowledge, presence and commitment in their interactions with men with cancer‐related fatigue to be able to take the whole person into consideration. This study demonstrates the importance of the approach oncology nurses take when interacting with men with cancer‐related fatigue and the strategies required when talking about cancer‐related fatigue.
Immersion pulmonary edema in a patient on maintenance dialysis: A case report
Authors: Morimoto Nobuhisa , Tanabe Madoka , Imono Atsuhiro , Otani Megumi , Shioji Shingo , Hirasawa Suguru , Aki Shota , Aoyagi Makoto , Tanaka Hiroyuki
Published: March 2020

Immersion pulmonary edema (IPE) is a rare condition observed in divers. We report a case of a 66‐year‐old man on maintenance dialysis who developed acute dyspnea and blood‐tinged sputum after scuba diving. Vital signs on admission were significant for elevated blood pressure at 209/63 mmHg and hypoxia with an oxygen requirement of 6 L/min. Physical examination was remarkable for bilateral coarse crackles and systolic ejection murmur. Chest radiography revealed bilateral pulmonary edema. Echocardiography showed aortic stenosis and diffuse hypokinesis of left ventricular wall motion. We started bilevel positive airway pressure and administered nitroglycerin and nicardipine to maintain adequate oxygenation and reduce blood pressure. We started hemodialysis and extracorporeal ultrafiltration to remove excess fluid. His dyspnea subsided and oxygen was no longer required on Day 3. His long‐standing hypertension, increased afterload due to vasoconstriction induced by cold water, increased capillary pressure due to impaired left ventricular motion and increased preload caused by exertion, and aortic stenosis probably contributed to pulmonary congestion. We propose maintenance dialysis as a novel risk factor for IPE due to its tendency to induce volume overload, increase pulmonary capillary pressure, and increase aortic stenosis risk. Patients on hemodialysis should refrain from diving to prevent this life‐threatening condition.
Discovery of a novel HLA‐A*02 variant, HLA‐A*02:402, in a Singaporean cord blood unit
Authors: Prasath Arun , Ho Aloysius , Ng Jennifer , Lin Py‐Yu , Yang Kuo‐Liang
Published: March 2020

Nucleotide replacements in codons 145 and 149 of HLA‐A*02:03:01 result in a new allele, HLA‐A*02:402.
Characterization of the novel HLA‐C*15:160N allele
Authors: Zhang Wei , Fu Rui , He Yizhen , He Ji , Zhu Faming
Published: March 2020

HLA‐C*15:160N differs from HLA‐C*15:02:01:01 by a single nucleotide substitution at codon 244 in exon 4.
External quality assessment of noninvasive fetal RHD genotyping
Authors: Clausen Frederik Banch , Hellberg Åsa
Published: March 2020

Background and objectives

Fetal RHD genotyping of cell‐free maternal plasma DNA from RhD negative pregnant women can be used to guide targeted antenatal and postnatal anti‐D prophylaxis for the prevention of RhD immunization. To assure the quality of clinical testing, we conducted an external quality assessment workshop with the participation of 31 laboratories.

Materials and methods

Aliquots of pooled maternal plasma from gestational week 25 were sent to each laboratory. One sample was fetal RHD positive, and a second sample was fetal RHD negative. A reporting scheme was supplied for data collection, including questions regarding the methodological setup, results and clinical recommendations. The samples were tested blindly.

Results

Different methodological approaches were used; 29 laboratories used qPCR and two laboratories used ddPCR, employing a total of eight different combinations of RHD exon targets. Fetal RHD genotyping was performed with no false‐negative and no false‐positive results. One inconclusive result was reported for the RHD positive sample. All clinical conclusions were satisfactory.

Conclusion

This external quality assessment workshop demonstrates that despite the different approaches taken to perform the clinical assays, fetal RHD genotyping is a reliable laboratory assay to guide targeted use of Rh prophylaxis in a clinical setting.
Rejuvenation solution as an adjunct cold storage solution maintains physiological haemoglobin oxygen affinity during early‐storage period of red blood cells
Authors: Evans Brooke A. , Ansari Andrea K. , Srinivasan Amudan J. , Kamyszek Reed W. , Stoner Keaton C. , Fuller Matthew , Poisson Jessica L. , Welsby Ian J.
Published: March 2020

Background

Red blood cell (RBC) units accumulate morphologic and metabolic lesions during storage before transfusion. Pyruvate–inosine–phosphate–adenine (PIPA) solutions (Rejuvesol, Biomet, Warsaw, IN) can be incubated with RBC units to mitigate storage lesions. This study proposes a PIPA treatment process, termed cold ‘rejuvenation’, using Rejuvesol as an adjunct additive solution, to prevent biomechanical storage lesions while avoiding the 1 h PIPA incubation required with standard PIPA treatment. We compared the efficacy of cold to standard ‘rejuvenation’ in improving metabolic lesions that occur during cold storage of RBCs, without altering function.

Methods

Twelve leucoreduced, A‐positive RBC units were obtained. Each unit was aliquoted into either control (standard storage), washed (W), standard rejuvenation (SR) or cold rejuvenation (CR) groups, the latter two requiring washing. A volume‐adjusted dose of Rejuvesol was instilled into the CR group upon receipt (Day 3). After 15 days of storage, p50, RBC deformability, in‐bag haemolysis and mechanical fragility were analysed. ‘Any treatment’ is defined as W, SR and CR, with comparisons in reference to control.

Results

Higher p50s were seen in rejuvenated groups (>30 mmHg vs. <19 mmHg; P < 0·0001). Any treatment significantly increased elongation index (P = 0·034) but did not significantly increase in‐bag haemolysis (P = 0·062). Mechanical fragility was not significantly different between groups (P = 0·055) at baseline, but the control (CTL) group was more fragile after 2 h in a cardiac bypass simulation than any treatment (P < 0·0001).

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that rejuvenation (standard or cold) prevents the leftward p50 shift of storage lesions without detrimental effect on RBC deformity, in‐bag haemolysis or mechanical fragility.
Red‐blood‐cell manufacturing methods and storage solutions differentially induce pulmonary cell activation
Authors: Wirtz Mathijs R. , Almizraq Ruqayyah J. , Weber Nina C. , Norris Philip J. , Pandey Suchitra , Spinella Philip C. , Muszynski Jennifer A. , P. Acker Jason , Juffermans Nicole P.
Published: March 2020

Background and Objectives

Red‐blood‐cell (RBC) transfusion is associated with lung injury, which is further exacerbated by mechanical ventilation. Manufacturing methods of blood products differ globally and may play a role in the induction of pulmonary cell activation through alteration of the immunomodulatory property of the products. Here, the effect of different manufacturing methods on pulmonary cell activation was investigated in an in vitro model of mechanical ventilation.

Materials and Methods

Pulmonary type II cells were incubated with supernatant from fresh and old RBC products obtained via whole blood filtration (WBF), red cell filtration (RCF), apheresis‐derived (AD) or whole blood‐derived (WBD) methods. Lung cells were subjected to 25% stretch for 24 h. Controls were non‐stretched or non‐incubated cells.

Results

Fresh but not old AD products and WBF products induce lung cell production of pro‐inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, which was not observed with WBD or RCF products. Effects were associated with an increased amount of platelet‐derived vesicles and an increased thrombin‐generating capacity. Mechanical stretching of lung cells induced more severe cell injury compared to un‐stretched controls, including alterations in the cytoskeleton, which was further augmented by incubation with AD products. In all read‐out parameters, RCF products seemed to induce less injury compared to the other products.

Conclusions

Our findings show that manufacturing methods of RBC products impact pulmonary cell activation, which may be mediated by the generation of vesicles in the product. We suggest RBC manufacturing method may be an important factor in understanding the association between RBC transfusion and lung injury.
Factors affecting seed germination and emergence of Aegilops tauschii
Authors: Wang Hengzhi , Zhao Kongping , Li Xiangju , Chen Xiutao , Liu Weitang , Wang Jinxin
Published: March 2020

Information on seed germination and emergence ecology of Aegilops tauschii is scant, despite it being a widespread invasive weed in China. We conducted this study to determine the effects of various factors on seed germination and seedling emergence in three A. tauschii populations. Seeds germinated across a wide range of temperatures (5–35°C), with germination of over 90% at 15–20°C. Germination was completely inhibited when dry seeds were exposed to a temperature of 160°C for 5 min; a similar response was observed for pre‐soaked seeds at 100°C. Light was neither required for nor inhibited germination. Germination was not significantly affected by pH. Aegilops tauschii was relatively tolerant to low osmotic potential and high salt stress: over 80% of seeds germinated at −0.3 MPa, and all three populations germinated in the presence of 400 mM salt (NaCl) although salt tolerance varied among the populations. Seeds buried at depths of 1–3 cm emerged well, but emergence was completely inhibited at depths greater than 8 cm. The addition of maize straw caused a linear reduction in seedling emergence, although the rate of reduction varied among the populations. The results of this study have contributed to understanding the requirements of A. tauschii germination and emergence and optimising an integrated management system for this weed in Huang–Huai–Hai Plain of China. In addition, our study provides data for development of models to predict the geographical distribution of this weed.
A Research on the Professional Future Expectations of the Students of the German Language Teaching Department
Authors: Bozdemir Orhan
Published: March 2020

This is a qualitative study that aims to shed light on the opinions of the students of German Language Teaching Department about their professional future, the level of their expectations of being appointed as a teacher, and what alternative options they are considering in case they are not appointed. A survey study, which is one of the qualitative research techniques, was used in the research. The survey questions were asked to the participants about their professional future expectations and participants were asked to score their expectations from 1 to 5. Likert type "Professional Expectation Scale" was developed for the research. The results revealed that the students wanted to work as German teachers and do not intend to employee other jobs far from their professional fields. However, they are desperate about working in their field in the public. Also, the future expectation levels of second, third and fourth (last) year students were obtained quite similar. In addition, it was found to have an equal distribution of different opinions for living in a German-speaking country in the later period of their life.
Children’s Toys and Games during the Shoah, as Reflected in Five Hebrew Books
Authors: Dori Nitsa
Published: March 2020

The article will discuss games and toys connected to transmitting the legacy of the Shoah, as reflected in five Hebrew stories: Hadubi shel Fred [Bear and Fred: A World War II Story] by Iris Argaman, Grandpa's Third Drawer: Unlocking Holocaust Memories by Judy Tal Kopelman, Bubah me’erets aheret [A Doll from Another Country] by Ofra Galbert Avni, Hasodot shel savtah [Grandma’s secrets] by Ayana Friedman-Wirtheim, and Kaleidoscope by Hava Nissimov. The article will depict the toys found in the books as exhibits for transmitting the legacy of the Shoah, as visual symbols that are also sociocultural objects, as a means of survival for children during the Shoah period, and as relators of a narrative that is passed on from one generation to the next. The article will also discuss the illustrations that accompany the text as contributors to their visual symbolic language.
Robust Simultaneous Stabilization Using Derivative State Feedback
Authors: Suresh Deshmukh Venkatesh
Published: March 2020

In simultaneous stabilization of continuous time switched linear system models of inertially coupled dynamic systems with bounded persistent external disturbance and internal parameter variations, the generalized proportional integral derivative (PID) controller suffers from a serious drawback. It loses the ability to guarantee exponential stability of the closed-loop error response, which is the difference between the actual and the desired closed-loop responses. The high value of the hardware gain has no control over the situation. On the contrary, the derivative state feedback (DSF) controller effectively employs the hardware gain in diminishing the effects of external and internal disturbances. These facts are proved and illustrated by suitable examples. The proposed method of simultaneous stabilization is shown to be an easier alternative to solve Diophantine equations encountered. The method for single input single output (SISO) systems is also shown to extend seamlessly to the control of multiple input multiple output (MIMO) square models with equal number of inputs and outputs. The shortcoming of the method is pointed out when the models are not square. The advantages of the proposed methodology over the existing methods are outlined. Finally, an efficient time domain simulation scheme is presented for the numerical study of such models in time and transfer function domain with nonzero initial conditions.
Human Pelvis Bayesian Injury Probability Curves From Whole Body Lateral Impact Experiments
Authors: Yoganandan Narayan , DeVogel Nicholas , Pintar Frank , Banerjee Anjishnu
Published: March 2020

Injury criteria are used in military, automotive, and aviation environments to advance human safety. While injury risk curves (IRCs) for the human pelvis are published under vertical loading, there is a paucity of analysis that describe IRCs under lateral impact. The objective of the present study is to derive IRCs under this mode. Published data were used from 60 whole-body postmortem human surrogate (PMHS) tests that used repeated testing protocols. In the first analysis, from single impact tests, all injury data points were considered as left censored and noninjury points were considered as right censored, while repeated testing results were treated as interval censored data. In the second analysis, injury data were treated uncensored. Peak force was used as the response variable. Age, total body mass, gender, and body mass index (BMI) were used as covariates in different combinations. Bayesian survival analysis model was used to derive the IRCs. Plus-minus 95% credible intervals (CI) and their normalized CI sizes (NCIS) were obtained. This is the first study to develop IRCs in whole body PMHS tests to describe the human pelvic tolerance under lateral impact using Bayesian models.
Data-Driven Performance Monitoring of Dynamical Systems Using Granger Causal Graphical Models
Authors: Saha Homagni , Liu Chao , Jiang Zhanhong , Sarkar Soumik
Published: March 2020

Data-driven analysis and monitoring of complex dynamical systems have been gaining popularity due to various reasons like ubiquitous sensing and advanced computation capabilities. A key rationale is that such systems inherently have high dimensionality and feature complex subsystem interactions due to which majority of the first-principle based methods become insufficient. We explore the family of a recently proposed probabilistic graphical modeling technique, called spatiotemporal pattern network (STPN) in order to capture the Granger causal relationships among observations in a dynamical system. We also show that this technique can be used for anomaly detection and root-cause analysis for real-life dynamical systems. In this context, we introduce the notion of Granger-STPN (G-STPN) inspired by the notion of Granger causality and introduce a new nonparametric technique to detect causality among dynamical systems observations. We experimentally validate our framework for detecting anomalies and analyzing root causes in a robotic arm platform and obtain superior results compared to when other causality metrics were used in previous frameworks.
Studying Dynamic Change Probabilities and Their Role in Change Propagation
Authors: Long Daniel , Ferguson Scott
Published: March 2020

Long-lived systems are likely to experience many independent modifications during their lifecycles. Prior literature provides tools for predicting how a change in a fixed system is likely to propagate, but these tools do not address change propagation across multiple, independent modifications. The phenomenon of a modification consuming excess, thereby increasing the likelihood of change propagation in future modifications, is studied in this work as dynamic change probabilities (DCP). This research builds on change propagation techniques, network theory, and excess to provide high-level guidance about how DCP may alter change propagation within a system over time. A sample of existing and synthetic systems are explored, as we show that the rate of change likelihood increase following a modification depends on the number of components (nodes), the dependencies between components (edges), and initial change propagation probability values (edge weights). Results also show that excess placement in specific components, and the presence of system hubs (high-degree components), can mitigate the impact of excess consumption when multiple system modifications are made over time.
Friction Reduction of Oil-Impregnated Sintered Bearings by Surface Texturing
Authors: Korenaga Atsushi , Mano Hiroki , Omura Ayako , Ohana Tsuguyori , Aso Shinobu , Sadakata Kazuki , Tanabe Shigeyuki , Akiyama Yuji , Habuki Fumio
Published: March 2020

In this study, to reduce the friction of oil-impregnated sintered bearings, rounded-rectangle dimples are processed on the bearing surface and the bearing properties are examined. The dimpled bearings achieved lower friction than the flat bearings without dimple processing. To investigate the mechanism of friction reduction of the dimpled bearings, the friction coefficient, the eccentricity ratio, and the attitude angle of the bearings were measured. As a result, the dimpled bearings showed a larger eccentricity ratio and a smaller attitude angle than the flat bearings. In addition, the attitude angles of the dimpled bearings were negative in some cases. The reason for the reduced friction of the dimpled bearings is presumed to be that the extent of the lubricating oil in the bearing clearance was narrower, while the dimple enabled a sufficient amount of lubricating oil to be supplied to the plateau region.
Determination of Coupling Loss Factors Between Two Plates Joined at a Right Angle Using the Wave Approach
Authors: Patil Vinayak H. , Manik Dhanesh N.
Published: March 2020

Vibration transmission through two homogenous isotropic plates, joined at a right angle to each other, is studied using a wave approach in the audible frequency range. In this study, a generalized mathematical model is developed for the right-angled joint using a spring and dashpot model, which represents welded, riveted, and bolted joints. The energy transfer for the spring-dashpot model is determined in terms of transmission and reflection efficiencies of the aforementioned joints. The effect of variation of stiffness and damping of the joints on the transmission and reflection efficiencies is studied for variation in the coupled plate thickness and density ratio. The transmission efficiency is used to theoretically determine the coupling loss factor (CLF), which is an important parameter of statistical energy analysis (SEA) models. It is observed that with an increase in the mass of the second plate, it acts as a blocking mass to energy transfer. Experiments were performed on two mild steel plates connected using weld, rivet, and bolt joints to determine the CLFs for the joints and to verify the theoretical model. The CLFs determined from experiments and predicted using the wave approach were compared with those determined from the power injection method (PIM).
Effect of Fuel Injection Timing Relative to Ignition Timing on the Natural-Gas Direct-Injection Combustion
Authors: Huang Zuohua , Shiga Seiichi , Ueda Takamasa , Jingu Nobuhisa , Nakamura Hisao , Ishima Tusneaki , Obokata Tomio , Tsue Mitsuhiro , Kono Michikata
Published: March 2020

Effect of fuel injection timing relative to ignition timing on natural gas direct-injection combustion was studied by using a rapid compression machine. The ignition timing was fixed at 80 ms from the compression start. When the injection timing was relatively earlier (injection start at 60 ms), the heat release pattern showed slower burn in the initial stage and faster burn in the late stage, which is similar to that of flame propagation of a premixed gas. In contrast to this, when the injection timing was relatively later (injection start at 75 ms), the heat release rate showed faster burn in the initial stage and slower burn in the late stage, which is similar to that of diesel combustion. The shortest duration was realized at the injection end timing of 80 ms (the same timing as the ignition timing) over the wide range of equivalence ratio. The degree of charge stratification and the intensity of turbulence generated by the fuel jet is considered to cause these behaviors. Earlier injection leads to longer duration of the initial combustion, whereas the later injection does longer duration of the late combustion. Earlier injection showed relatively lower CO emission while later injection produces relatively lower NOx emission. It was suggested that earlier injection leads to lower mixture stratification combustion and later injection leads to higher mixture stratification combustion. Combustion efficiency maintained high value over the wide range of equivalence ratio.
Alternative Refrigerant for an IC Engine Thermal Recuperation System
Authors: Hay E. , Moshi J. , Baker P. , Reid J.
Published: March 2020

The hot tests on a prototype waste heat thermal recuperation system attached to a heavy-duty diesel engine and used with an inert gas as the cycle organic refrigerant described.

TER is a system attached to the engine that uses the waste heat in the hot coolant and can lead to an efficiency improvement of 2 to 4% with correspondingly lower emissions.

The heat balance, pressure losses, energy available for recuperation and other pertinent data are described and discussed.

The equipment proved to be rugged. High-pressure losses in the system were reduced and the heat losses improved. The TER55 refrigerant was easier to handle and could serve as a reasonable substitute for Butane: it is inert, non-CFC based and operates at similar pressures.
Integrated Multi-Code Prediction of the Unsteady Flow Around Moving Valve and in Engine Intake Systems
Authors: Chiatti G. , Chiavola O.
Published: March 2020

Predictions of the behaviour of flow in duct system are of practical relevance in design procedure, since the performance of internal combustion engine critically depends on the gas dynamic response of the intake port and the cylinder during the induction process.
On the fate of oxygenated organic molecules in atmospheric aerosol particles
Authors: Pospisilova V. , Lopez-Hilfiker F. D. , Bell D. M. , El Haddad I. , Mohr C. , Huang W. , Heikkinen L. , Xiao M. , Dommen J. , Prevot A. S. H. , Baltensperger U. , Slowik J. G.
Published: March 2020

Real-time investigation of the intraparticle reactions in secondary organic aerosol.
E. coli
“super-contaminates” narrow ducts fostered by broad run-time distribution
Authors: Figueroa-Morales Nuris , Rivera Aramis , Soto Rodrigo , Lindner Anke , Altshuler Ernesto , Clément Éric
Published: March 2020

Bacteria overcome distances comparable to the size of human organs, thanks to their wide motor switching statistics.
Global crotonylome reveals CDYL-regulated RPA1 crotonylation in homologous recombination–mediated DNA repair
Authors: Yu Huajing , Bu Chen , Liu Yuncheng , Gong Tianyu , Liu Xiaoping , Liu Shumeng , Peng Xiaojun , Zhang Wenting , Peng Yani , Yang Jianguo , He Lin , Zhang Yu , Yi Xia , Yang Xiaohan , Sun Luyang , Shang Yongfeng , Cheng Zhongyi , Liang Jing
Published: March 2020

Large-scale crotonylome reveals CDYL-regulated crotonylation in diverse functions including RPA-mediated HR DNA repair.
Origins of the Mesoamerican ballgame: Earliest ballcourt from the highlands found at Etlatongo, Oaxaca, Mexico
Authors: Blomster Jeffrey P. , Salazar Chávez Víctor E.
Published: March 2020

The earliest ballcourt in highland Mexico comes from Etlatongo, Oaxaca, challenging lowland paradigms on the ballgame’s origins.
The electronic thickness of graphene
Authors: Rickhaus Peter , Liu Ming-Hao , Kurpas Marcin , Kurzmann Annika , Lee Yongjin , Overweg Hiske , Eich Marius , Pisoni Riccardo , Taniguchi Takashi , Watanabe Kenji , Richter Klaus , Ensslin Klaus , Ihn Thomas
Published: March 2020

The electronic thickness of graphene is measured by two capacitively coupled, atomically close graphene layers.
Rare case of post-varicella membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis presenting with massive proteinuria
Authors: Majumdar Avirup , Atam Virendra , Mishra Mayank
Published: March 2020

Chicken pox caused by varicella zoster virus is usually a self-limiting disease causing rare life-threatening complications. Involvement of the kidneys is infrequent during the course of the illness. Literature shows rare reports of acute glomerulonephritis following varicella infection. We report a case of 16-year-old boy presenting with anasarca with characteristic healed rashes of chicken pox. His urinalysis revealed a ‘massive’ nephrotic range proteinuria (16 g/24 hours), gross hematuria and pyuria. A percutaneous renal biopsy showed membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis. Most cases of post-varicella glomerulonephritis have been described in children, massive proteinuria of this range in an immunocompetent adolescent, being an extremely rare entity. Acute proliferative glomerulonephritis in such cases is usually an immune complex hypocomplementaemic glomerulonephritis in response to the zoster infection. Proteinuria in most patients is benign and self-limiting with few fatal reports of crescentic glomerulonephritis progressing to acute renal failure.
Micturition syncope secondary to urinary bladder paraganglioma
Authors: Johnson Johns T , Cherian Kripa Elizabeth , Kapoor Nitin , Paul Thomas Vizhalil
Published: March 2020

Paraganglioma of the bladder is a rare tumour accounting for less than 0.06% of all urinary bladder tumours and has varied presentations. It may present with clinical symptoms of phaeochromocytoma, may be non-functioning and asymptomatic or may present with haematuria. Hence, paragangliomas are occasionally misdiagnosed, and this results in unanticipated intraoperative hypertensive crisis. We present the case of a 44-year-old woman with urinary bladder paraganglioma who presented with young onset hypertension, recurrent micturition syncope with prior history of coronary artery disease and stroke. She was stabilised preoperatively with alpha blocking agents and subsequently underwent successful transurethral resection of the same.
Failure of platelet function analyser 200 to demonstrate clinical clopidogrel resistance in a patient undergoing intracranial vascular stenting
Authors: Bell Hayden , Steinfort Brendan , Pasalic Leonardo , Dexter Mark
Published: March 2020

A patient undergoes intracranial stent insertion for stent-assisted coiling of a basilar tip aneurysm and left middle cerebral artery aneurysm. A flow diverting stent is also placed across an anterior communicating artery aneurysm. Prior to the procedure, the patient takes dual antiplatelet medications, being aspirin and clopidogrel. Because of the concern regarding in-stent thrombus and thromboembolic complications related to intracranial stenting and the high rate of clopidogrel resistance, preoperative platelet function testing (PFT) was undertaken to ensure platelet inhibition. In this case, PFT was performed on a platelet function analyser which demonstrated platelet inhibition. Ten days following the procedure, the patient represented with thromboembolic stroke. Repeat PFT performed with whole blood impedance aggregometry and despite full medication compliance demonstrated clopidogrel resistance. Clopidogrel was then ceased and prasugrel commenced. This case demonstrates the importance of appropriate platelet inhibition in patients with intracranial stents and the controversy surrounding PFT.
Self-reported and objectively measured physical activity levels among Hispanic/Latino adults with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Bevier Wendy , Glantz Namino , Hoppe Charis , Morales Glass Jessikah , Larez Arianna , Chen Kong , Kerr David
Published: March 2020

Objective

In the USA, minority populations face a disproportionate burden from type 2 diabetes (T2D), in whom physical activity (PA) is recommended. The aim of this study was to determine levels of PA among a community of free-living Hispanic/Latino adults with T2D using a research accelerometer, a consumer device and a pictogram self-assessment questionnaire.

Research design and methods

This was a cross-sectional, observational study. Participants (57 women and 31 men, body mass index (kg/m2) 32.2±7.9 and 29.9±4.5, waist circumference 97.1±30.1 and 93.7±33.0 cm and hemoglobin A1c 8.0±2.0 and 8.1%±1.8%, respectively) wore an ActiGraph (AG) on the hip and a Fitbit (FB) on the wrist for 1 week to estimate daily steps and energy expenditure (EE). Participants reported type and intensity of PA using English-language or Spanish-language pictograms and a 10-point Likert scale (1=‘not active’ to 10=‘very, very active’).

Results

Steps per day were not normally distributed; AG median steps/weekday (Monday–Friday) was 6990 (range 1091–25 884) compared with 9329 (288–31 669) using FB (p≤0.01). Both devices recorded significantly more steps on weekdays versus weekends (p≤0.05). EE was also higher during the week. AG and FB were highly correlated to each other (p<0.01). Men were more active than women and maintained their PA throughout the week, whereas women decreased theirs on weekends. Spanish-language pictograms were preferred and self-reported PA matched objective assessments by both devices. Participants perceived themselves to be active (7.1±2.0) due to work.

Conclusions

Both objectively measured and self-reported levels of PA in Hispanic/Latino adults with T2D challenge the assumption that lack of PA may be commonplace for this group. AG and FB are different in their measurement of PA but are significantly correlated. New strategies, including use of pictograms, for interventions need to be considered if further increases or changes in PA are to be used as T2D therapy.

Trial registration number

NCT03736486
Obesity prevalence in Brazilian firefighters and the association of central obesity with personal, occupational and cardiovascular risk factors: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Damacena Fernanda Camargo , Batista Thatiany Jardim , Ayres Lorena Rocha , Zandonade Eliana , Sampaio Karla Nívea
Published: March 2020

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the obesity prevalence in a population of Brazilian firefighters and the association of central obesity (CO) with sociodemographic, occupational, life habits, fitness and health status variables.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Settings

The data were collected during annual health inspections of firefighters from the Military Fire Service of the State of Espírito Santo, a state in Southeast Brazil.

Participants

The study encompassed 1018 active military firefighters. After exclusion criteria, 892 male firefighters were analysed.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The collected data included: sociodemographic, occupational, lifestyle, fitness and health status variables. The associations between these factors and CO were calculated by adjusted OR through a hierarchical logistic regression model.

Results

Obesity estimation by body mass index indicated that 48.65% of the firefighters were overweight and 10.99% were obese. Concerning the body fat percentage, 26.23% of the participants were considered obese, while 18.61% of the firefighters were considered centrally obese or at risk using the waist circumference measure. After adjusted OR analysis, CO was more likely associated with the age range of 50 to 59 years old (OR 2.93; 95% CI 1.05 to 8.14), low self-reported physical activity (OR 1.95; 95% CI 1.14 to 3.34), low cardiorespiratory fitness (OR 5.15; 95% CI 3.22 to 8.23), hyperglycaemia (OR 1.70; 95% CI 1.07 to 2.72) and hypertriglyceridaemia fasting status (OR 3.12; 95% CI 1.75 to 5.55).

Conclusions

Our study identified an overall high prevalence of overweight and obese individuals in the examined firefighter population. Age and cardiovascular risk factors were directly associated with CO among the firefighters. Cardiovascular risk factors should be routinely inspected within the Brazilian firefighters’ corporations in order to improve the health condition and wellness of these workers. These endeavours will improve the performance of the services provided to the population.
Prediction of gestational age with symphysis-fundal height and estimated uterine volume in a pregnancy cohort in Sylhet, Bangladesh
Authors: Lee Anne C C , Whelan Rachel , Bably Nazmun Nahar , Schaeffer Lauren E , Rahman Sayedur , Ahmed Salahuddin , Moin Syed Mamun Ibne , Begum Nazma , Quaiyum Mohammad Abdul , Rosner Bernard , Litch James A , Baqui Abdullah H , Wylie Blair J
Published: March 2020

Objective

To improve the accuracy of the prediction of gestational age (GA) before birth with the standardised measurement of symphysis-fundal height (SFH), estimation of uterine volume, and statistical modelling including maternal anthropometrics and other factors.

Design

Prospective pregnancy cohort study.

Setting

Rural communities in Sylhet, Bangladesh.

Participants

1516 women with singleton pregnancies with early pregnancy ultrasound dating (<20 weeks); 1486 completed follow-up.

Methods

SFH and abdominal girth were measured at subsequent antenatal care (ANC) visits by community health workers at 24 to 28, 32 to 36, and/or >37 weeks gestation. An estimated uterine volume (EUV) was calculated from these measures. Data on pregnancy characteristics and other maternal anthropometrics were also collected.

Primary outcome measure

GA at subsequent ANC visits, as defined by early ultrasound dating.

Results

1486 (98%) women had at least one subsequent ANC visit, 1102 (74%) women had two subsequent ANC visits, and 748 (50%) had three visits. Using the common clinical practice of approximating the GA (in weeks) with the SFH measurement (cm), SFH systematically underestimated GA in late pregnancy (mean difference −4.4 weeks, 95% limits of agreement −12.5 to 3.7). For the classification of GA <28 weeks, SFH <26 cm had 85% sensitivity and 81% specificity; and for GA <34 weeks, SFH <29 cm had 83% sensitivity and 71% specificity. EUV had similar diagnostic accuracy. Despite rigorous statistical modelling of SFH, accounting for repeated longitudinal measurements and additional predictors, the best model without including a known last menstrual period predicted 95% of pregnancy dates within ±7.4 weeks of early ultrasound dating.

Conclusions

We were unable to predict GA with a high degree of accuracy before birth using maternal anthropometric measures and other available maternal characteristics. Efforts to improve GA dating in low- and middle-income countries before birth should focus on increasing coverage and training of ultrasonography.

Trial registration number

NCT01572532
Disability discrimination and well-being in the United Kingdom: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Hackett Ruth A. , Steptoe Andrew , Lang Raymond P. , Jackson Sarah E.
Published: March 2020

Objectives

Disability discrimination is linked with poorer well-being cross-sectionally. The aim of this study was to explore prospective associations between disability discrimination and well-being.

Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

The United Kingdom Household Longitudinal Study.

Participants

Data were from 871 individuals with a self-reported physical, cognitive or sensory disability.

Primary outcome measures

Depression was assessed in 2009/10. Psychological distress, mental functioning, life satisfaction and self-rated health were assessed in 2009/10 and 2013/14.

Results

Data were analysed using linear and logistic regression with adjustment for age, sex, household income, education, ethnicity and impairment category. Perceived disability discrimination was reported by 117 (13.4%) participants. Cross-sectionally, discrimination was associated with depression (OR=5.40, 95% CI 3.25 to 8.97) fair/poor self-rated health (OR=2.05; 95% CI 1.19 to 3.51), greater psychological distress (B=3.28, 95% CI 2.41 to 4.14), poorer mental functioning (B=−7.35; 95% CI −9.70 to −5.02) and life satisfaction (B=−1.27, 95% CI −1.66 to −0.87). Prospectively, discrimination was associated with increased psychological distress (B=2.88, 95% CI 1.39 to 4.36) and poorer mental functioning (B=−5.12; 95% CI −8.91 to −1.34), adjusting for baseline scores.

Conclusions

Perceived disability-related discrimination is linked with poorer well-being. These findings underscore the need for interventions to combat disability discrimination.
We all want to die in peace - So why don’t we?
Authors: Gijsbertsen Brecht , Kremer Jan A M
Published: March 2020

Objectives

Approximately 70% of Americans would prefer to die at home and avoid hospitalization or intensive care during the terminal phase of illness. Given the wish to die at home, it should follow the majority of Americans achieves their wish. However, recent data indicate ~60% of people dies away from home or hospice care. This article sets out to understand what makes it so difficult to attain what we aspire for in death and provide a starting point for change.

Method

The authors reviewed and analysed literature on elements which drive patients to continue treatment even though prospects are grim.

Results

Six elements which combine into a system driving non-peaceful death were identified (western culture, healthcare system, pharmaceutical industry, professionals, family and loves ones, patients themselves) and complemented with three additional factors entrenched in us as humans which make the system particularly difficult to overcome ((rational) decision making, option framing, inability to change).

Conclusion

Dying in peace is easier said than done because the cards are stacked against us and we seem to remain unaware of the breadth and depth at which continuing treatment is ingrained in our system.