bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heat Conduction in a Compressible Fluid
Authors: Cole J. D. , Wu T. Y.
Published: April 2021

The conduction of heat in a compressible fluid medium is studied in this paper. The compressibility of the fluid has the important effect that an excess of heat is not only carried away by conduction but also causes a pressure wave to move in the fluid. A closely related problem is the effect of heat conduction on the propagation of sound waves in a gas. In both cases the total energy is divided between thermal and pressure waves.
A Progressing-Wave Approach to the Theory of Blast Shock
Authors: Newton R. G.
Published: April 2021

This paper deals with a theoretical description of the motion of a spherical shock wave in a homogeneous medium, such as a blast shock in free air. In order to facilitate such a treatment, a simple assumption concerning the flow is made. The concept of a “progressing wave” as used in this paper is explained and compared with that used by other authors. A simple assumption is made about the motion of the progressing wave, and on its basis an ordinary second-order differential equation for the shock front is derived. Conservation of energy in the shock sphere reduces this to an ordinary first-order differential equation. Examination of the asymptotic behavior of the wave reveals that the original assumption in its simplest form contradicts conservation of energy. The original assumption is then suitably modified and the resulting new equations derived, including asymptotic values. Values for the high-pressure approximation, i.e., near the center of the explosion, are derived, and finally asymptotic as well as high-pressure values are derived for the pressure decay behind the shock front.
Bending With Axial Force of Curved Bars in Plasticity
Authors: Phillips Aris
Published: April 2021

The problem of symmetrical pure bending with axial force of a curved bar in plasticity is considered. A method is given for finding the axial load and bending moment which produce a given strain distribution. This method is based upon approximating the stress-strain curves by means of broken lines. By increasing the number of sides of these broken lines it is possible to solve our problem with as high accuracy as is desired.
Limit Design of a Full Reinforcement for a Circular Cutout in a Uniform Slab
Authors: Weiss H. J. , Prager W. , Hodge P. G.
Published: April 2021

A thin square slab with a central circular cutout reinforced by a concentric ring is subjected to uniform tensions Tx and Ty on the exterior edges. It is desired to determine the dimensions of the reinforcement if the slab is not to collapse under any load which could be supported by a similar slab without any cutout or reinforcement. It is assumed that the slab and reinforcement are made of a perfectly plastic material which satisfies the Tresca yield criterion of maximum shearing stress, and that the dimensions of the reinforcement are such that it may reasonably be approximated by a curved beam. Under these assumptions, an upper bound on the necessary thickness of the reinforcement for any given radius is obtained. Certain practical limitations of the theory are discussed.
Plastic-Rigid Analysis of Long Beams Under Transverse Impact Loading
Authors: Conroy M. F.
Published: April 2021

The object of this paper is to set forth the results of an investigation of the behavior of long beams under transverse, constant-velocity impact loading, when a plastic-rigid type of analysis is adopted. It was expected that such an analysis would be satisfactory for problems involving large strains, and easier to evaluate than the corresponding elastic-plastic solution. Consideration is first given to the case of ideal plasticity. Elastic strains are neglected and the material of the beam is assumed to flow plastically at a constant yield limit. In this case expressions for the bending moment, shear force, curvature and deflection distributions along the beam are obtained analytically for any given impact velocity. The manner in which the solution for a beam having an elastic-ideally plastic bending moment-curvature relationship converges to the plastic-rigid solution, as EI increases, is discussed. Consideration is next given to the case of work-hardening where the material is assumed to obey a plastic-rigid bending moment-curvature relationship consisting of a straight line with nonzero slope. Unfortunately, difficulty arises in finding a solution analytically in this case. However, by considering the solution for a beam having the corresponding elastic-plastic bending moment-curvature relationship and a large EI-value, some speculation as to the probable form of the solution may be made.
Free Vibrations of Constrained Beams
Authors: Lee Winston F. Z. , Saibel Edward
Published: April 2021

A general expression is developed from which the frequency equation for the vibration of a constrained beam with any combination of intermediate elastic or rigid supports, concentrated masses, and sprung masses can be found readily. The method also is extended to the case where the constraint is a continuous elastic foundation or uniformly distributed load of any length. This method requires only the knowledge of the natural frequencies and natural modes of the beam supported at the ends in the same manner as the constrained beam but not subjected to any of the constraints between the ends. The frequency equation is obtained easily and can be solved to any desired degree of approximation for any number of modes of vibration in a quick and simple manner. Numerical examples are given for a beam with one concentrated mass, for a beam with one sprung mass, and a continuous beam with one sprung mass.
A Gated Two-Frequency Two-Mode Method for Piezoelectric Motorization
Authors: Hsu Yu-Hsiang , Chu Tsung-Yu , Lin Zi-Xun , Lee Chih-Kung
Published: April 2021

In this study, we present a new driving method to generate traveling waves in a finite plate for application to piezoelectric motors. Due to resonant modes which dominate the vibration of finite structures, methods to reduce resonant effects such as using an electric sinker or driving at a non-resonant frequency have been reported. To take advantage of natural resonance and to increase driving efficiency, a new method entitled gated two-frequency-two-mode (G-TFTM) was developed. A piezoelectric bimorph of 1.1 g weight with two rectangular actuators was implemented to verify the design concept. One actuator was operated at a first bending mode and the other actuator operated at a second bending mode with a phase difference. The driving signal was gated to generate an intermittent excitation to provide the periodic propulsion. To determine the profile of the induced traveling wave, an analytical solution was derived and a numerical model was used. Using these design tools, we experimentally verified that traveling waves can be generated using a G-TFTM method. A 0.1-g object can be moved at a speed of 3.31 mm/s under the condition of a 70-to-20 voltage ratio and a 137 deg phase difference. The moving direction was found to be reversed by changing the phase to −43 deg. The experimental and numerical data are detailed in this paper to demonstrate the feasibility of this G-TFTM method.
Human-Knowledge-Augmented Gaussian Process Regression for State-of-Health Prediction of Lithium-Ion Batteries With Charging Curves
Authors: Zhou Quan , Wang Chongming , Sun Zeyu , Li Ji , Williams Huw , Xu Hongming
Published: April 2021

Lithium-ion batteries have been widely used in renewable energy storage and electric vehicles, and state-of-health (SoH) prediction is critical for battery safety and reliability. Following the standard SoH prediction routine based on charging curves, a human-knowledge-augmented Gaussian process regression (HAGPR) model is proposed by incorporating two promising artificial intelligence techniques, i.e., the Gaussian process regression (GPR) and the adaptive neural fuzzy inference system (ANFIS). Human knowledge on voltage profile during battery degradation is first modeled with an ANFIS for feature extraction that helps reduce the need for physical testing. Then, the ANFIS is integrated with a GPR model to enable SoH prediction. Using a GPR model as the baseline, a comparison study is conducted to demonstrate the advantage of the proposed HAGPR model. It indicates that the proposed HAGPR model can reduce at least 12% root-mean-square error with 31.8% less battery aging testing compared to the GPR model.
The Dynamic Calibration Uncertainty of Fast Response Pressure Probes
Authors: Boufidi Elissavet , Fontaneto Fabrizio
Published: April 2021

In this article, error sources affecting the dynamic calibration of fast-response pressure probes in shock tubes are examined. In particular, the sensors uncertainty, the uncertainty in the rising point of the pressure step, and the nonideality of the step are treated. The latter refers to the presence of pressure oscillations past the shock front, which are particularly important in the case of low-pressure shock tubes, typically used for the calibration of pressure probes for turbomachinery applications. The nonideality effect is investigated using a linear time invariant (LTI) second-order model for the transfer function of the probe’s line-cavity system and an existing analytical model for the post-shock oscillations. The effects of these uncertainty sources to the experimentally determined transfer function of a fast-response probe calibrated in the von Karman Institute (VKI) shock tube are finally presented.
Flexural Waves in Elastically Coupled Telescopic Metabeams
Authors: Prasad Rajan , Banerjee Arnab
Published: April 2021

This paper investigates the flexural wave propagation through elastically coupled telescopic metabeams. It is assumed that the metabeam is formed by connecting successive beams with each other using distributed elastic springs. The equations of motion of a representative unit of the above-mentioned novel structural form are established by dividing it into three constitutive components that are two side beams, modeled employing the Euler–Bernoulli beam equation and an elastically coupled articulated distributed spring connection (ECADSC) at middle. ECADSC is modeled as parallel double beams connected by distributed springs. The underlying mechanics of this system in context of elastic wave propagation is unique when compared with the existing state of art in which local resonators, inertial amplifiers, etc. are attached to the beam to widen the attenuation bandwidth. The dynamic stiffness matrix is employed in conjunction with Bloch–Floquet theorem to derive the band structure of the system. It is identified that the coupling coefficient of the distributed spring layer and length ratio between the side beams and the elastic coupling plays the key role in the wave attenuation. It has been perceived that a considerable widening of the attenuation bandgap in the low frequency can be achieved while the elastically distributed springs are weak and distributed in a small stretch. Specifically, 140% normalized bandgap can be obtained only by tuning the stiffness and the length ratio without adding any added masses or resonators to the structure.
Implementation of Response Surface to Optimum Biodiesel Power Plant Derived From Empty Fruit Bunch
Authors: Sukpancharoen Somboon , Hansirisawat Poj , Srinophakun Thongchai R.
Published: April 2021

This study examined product separation in biodiesel power plants to optimize the process. Response surface methodology (RSM) was used to identify the optimum parameters for the process of separation, to maximize profitability while also reducing carbon dioxide emissions. The mass and energy balance was assessed using aspen plus software, while RSM was carried out with design-expert software. Development of the characteristic equation determined that the model for gasoline yield, power generation, and carbon dioxide emissions was significant at the 95% confidence level. The R-squared value predicted by the model was found to be 0.97–1.00. In an optimal plant, profit can rise by 3836 USD over the year, while carbon dioxide emissions decline annually by 17.97 tons.
Truncated bimodal latitudinal diversity gradient in early Paleozoic phytoplankton
Authors: Zacaï Axelle , Monnet Claude , Pohl Alexandre , Beaugrand Grégory , Mullins Gary , Kroeck David M. , Servais Thomas
Published: April 2021

The apparently unimodal latitudinal diversity gradient of Paleozoic phytoplankton is shown to be a truncated bimodal gradient.
Improvements in reports of species redistribution under climate change are required
Authors: Taheri Shirin , Naimi Babak , Rahbek Carsten , Araújo Miguel B.
Published: April 2021

Despite improvements, studies assessing climate change effects on species range shifts fall short on aspects of data and methods.
GABA transporter sustains IL-1β production in macrophages
Authors: Xia Yaoyao , He Fang , Wu Xiaoyan , Tan Bie , Chen Siyuan , Liao Yuexia , Qi Ming , Chen Shuai , Peng Yuanyi , Yin Yulong , Ren Wenkai
Published: April 2021

GAT2 links metabolism to DNA methylation to orchestrate macrophage-dependent inflammation.
AMPK/ULK1-mediated phosphorylation of Parkin ACT domain mediates an early step in mitophagy
Authors: Hung Chien-Min , Lombardo Portia S. , Malik Nazma , Brun Sonja N. , Hellberg Kristina , Van Nostrand Jeanine L. , Garcia Daniel , Baumgart Joshua , Diffenderfer Ken , Asara John M. , Shaw Reuben J.
Published: April 2021

Parkin is phosphorylated on Ser
108
in ACT domain by AMPK/ULK1 signaling within minutes of mitochondrial stress.
Somatosensory actuator based on stretchable conductive photothermally responsive hydrogel
Authors: Zhao Yusen , Lo Chiao-Yueh , Ruan Lecheng , Pi Chen-Huan , Kim Cheolgyu , Alsaid Yousif , Frenkel Imri , Rico Rossana , Tsao Tsu-Chin , He Ximin
Published: April 2021

Sensing and actuation integrate in a monolithic somatosensitive molecularly engineered actuatable material for soft robotics.
Plasmin-resistant PSD-95 inhibitors resolve effect-modifying drug-drug interactions between alteplase and nerinetide in acute stroke
Authors: Mayor-Nunez Diana , Ji Zhanxin , Sun Xiujun , Teves Lucy , Garman J. David , Tymianski Michael
Published: April 2021

The plasma stability and neuroprotective effectiveness of nerinetide are enhanced by partially substituting
l
- to
d
-amino acids.
FUS/TLS Suppresses Enterovirus Replication and Promotes Antiviral Innate Immune Responses
Authors: Xue Yuan Chao , Ng Chen Seng , Mohamud Yasir , Fung Gabriel , Liu Huitao , Bahreyni Amirhossein , Zhang Jingchun , Luo Honglin
Published: April 2021

Enteroviruses are common human pathogens, including those that cause myocarditis (coxsackievirus B3 [CVB3]), poliomyelitis (poliovirus), and hand, foot, and mouth disease (enterovirus 71). Understanding the virus-host interaction is crucial for developing means of treating and preventing diseases caused by these pathogens.
Draft Genome Sequences of Colistin-Resistant and
mcr-1.1-
Carrying Escherichia coli Strains Isolated from Irrigation Water
Authors: Nasser Nivin A. , Mann David , Li Shaoting , Deng Xiangyu , Kassem Issmat I.
Published: April 2021

Colistin has been classified as a highest priority clinically important antibiotic. However, the emergence of mobile colistin resistance (
mcr
) genes has threatened the therapeutic uses of colistin. Here, we report the draft genome sequences, antibiotic resistance genes, and sequence types (STs) of two multidrug-resistant and
mcr-1.1
-positive
Escherichia coli
strains isolated from irrigation water.
Complete Genome Sequence of Bifidobacterium longum subsp.
longum
JCM7052
Authors: Yamamoto Isamu , Ueno Yumiko , Geshi Miho , Inagaki Yoshishige , Odamaki Toshitaka , Fujita Kiyotaka
Published: April 2021

We report the complete genome sequence of
Bifidobacterium longum
subsp.
longum
JCM7052, isolated from human feces in Japan. This strain has the capability of growing on and utilizing gum arabic as an energy source. The complete genome is 2,273,627 bp long, with 1,929 protein-coding genes and 59.9 mol% G+C content.
Cerebral amyloid angiopathy: an underdiagnosed cause of recurrent neurological symptoms
Authors: Shah Fakharunisa , Yazdani Shayda , I'anson Mark , Nazir Tahir
Published: April 2021

Cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) is a common, yet frequently underdiagnosed pathology characterised by accumulation of amyloid β proteins in the small blood vessels of the brain. As a result, cerebrovascular dysregulation follows, leading to cerebral microbleeds, lobar intracerebral haematomas and sulcal subarachnoid haemorrhages. Gradual motor and cognitive decline due to these brain injuries leads to significant functional limitation in patients. We describe the case of a 69-year-old man requiring multiple hospital admissions with a variety of neurological symptoms. Following imaging of the brain, he was eventually diagnosed with CAA. We present a brief up-to-date literature review on epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical features, diagnosis and treatment options for CAA.
Abnormal movements and diaphragmatic flutter in a case of suspected induced illness
Authors: Arvier Rebecca , Clayton Thomas , Dade Monique , Joshi Rahul S
Published: April 2021

A 6-month-old girl presented to hospital via ambulance with a decreased conscious level (initial Glasgow Coma Scale of 3) and an abnormal breathing pattern described as diaphragmatic flutter. She then developed abnormal movements and continued to have episodes of fluctuating conscious levels so was transferred to a tertiary hospital paediatric intensive care unit for further investigation. During her 16-day stay in hospital, she continued to experience discrete episodes of drowsiness, bradycardia, unusual breathing patterns and abnormal movements which were associated with agitation, tachycardia, hypertension and insomnia. The patient underwent extensive investigation for her symptoms and, after some delay in waiting for initial results before considering a urine drug screen, she was ultimately found to have lisdexamfetamine and clonidine in her urine drug screen. Her symptoms subsequently resolved after her mother’s visits were restricted.
Association of macular and choroidal perfusion with long-term visual outcomes after macula-off rhegmatogenous retinal detachment
Authors: Chua Jacqueline , Ke Mengyuan , Tan Bingyao , Gan Alfred Tau Liang , Lim Laurence S , Tan Gavin SW , Lee Shu Yen , Wong Edmund , Schmetterer Leopold , Cheung Ning
Published: April 2021

Background/aims

To examine the relationship between macular perfusion, as assessed using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA), and long-term visual outcome after surgical repair of macula-off rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD).

Methods

A prospective study of 29 patients who had undergone successful surgical repair of macula-off RRD. OCTA imaging was performed at month 3 and repeated at months 6 and 12 after surgery. Associations between OCTA parameters including, foveal avascular zone (FAZ) area, vessel density (VD) in the superficial capillary plexus (SCP) and deep capillary plexus (DCP), choriocapillaris flow deficit features and logMAR best-corrected visual acuity (VA) were assessed using a random intercept hybrid linear mixed model.

Results

Over the 1-year follow-up, VA improved (0.025 logMAR/ month, 95% CI 0.015 to 0.035) and FAZ area decreased (−0.020 mm2/month, 95% CI −0.032 to −0.007). Better VA after surgery was significantly associated with denser superficial VD (β=0.079, 95% CI 0.026 to 0.131), lower number of choriocapillaris flow deficits (β=−0.087, 95% CI −0.154 to −0.021) and larger average size of choriocapillaris flow deficits (β=0.085, 95% CI 0.022 to 0.147), after adjusting for baseline VA, types of surgery and other factors.

Conclusions

OCTA measures of vascular perfusion in the macula may provide new pathophysiological insights and prognostic information related to macula-off RRD.
Deservingness: migration and health in social context
Authors: Holmes Seth M , Castañeda Ernesto , Geeraert Jeremy , Castaneda Heide , Probst Ursula , Zeldes Nina , Willen Sarah S , Dibba Yusupha , Frankfurter Raphael , Lie Anne Kveim , Askjer John Fredrik , Fjeld Heidi
Published: April 2021

This article brings the social science concept of ‘deservingness’ to bear on clinical cases of transnational migrant patients. Based on the authors’ medical social science research, health delivery practice and clinical work from multiple locations in Africa. Europe and the Americas, the article describes three clinical cases in which assumptions of deservingness have significant implications for the morbidity and mortality of migrant patients. The concept of deservingness allows us to maintain a critical awareness of the often unspoken presumptions of which categories of patients are more or less deserving of access to and quality of care, regardless of their formal legal eligibility. Many transnational migrants with ambiguous legal status who rely on public healthcare experience exclusion from care or poor treatment based on notions of deservingness held by health clinic staff, clinicians and health system planners. The article proposes several implications for clinicians, health professional education, policymaking and advocacy. A critical lens on deservingness can help global health professionals, systems and policymakers confront and change entrenched patterns of unequal access to and differential quality of care for migrant patients. In this way, health professionals can work more effectively for global health equity.
Flourishing: migration and health in social context
Authors: Willen Sarah S , Selim Nasima , Mendenhall Emily , Lopez Miriam Magaña , Chowdhury Shahanoor Akter , Dilger Hansjörg
Published: April 2021

Health and the capacity to flourish are deeply intertwined. For members of vulnerable migrant groups, systemic inequalities and structural forms of marginalisation and exclusion create health risks, impede access to needed care and interfere with the ability to achieve one’s full potential. Migrants often have limited access to healthcare, and they frequently are portrayed as less deserving than others of the resources needed to lead a healthy and flourishing life. Under these circumstances, clinicians, healthcare institutions and global health organisations have a moral and ethical obligation to consider the role they can—and do—play in either advancing or impeding migrants’ health and their capacity to flourish. Drawing on case studies from three world regions, we propose concrete steps clinicians and health institutions can take in order to better serve migrant patients. These include recommendations that can help improve understanding of the complex circumstances of migrants’ lives, strengthen collaboration between care providers and non-medical partners and transform the social, economic and structural circumstances that impede flourishing and harm health. Developing new strategies to promote the flourishing of precarious migrants can strengthen our collective ability to re-envision and redesign health systems and structures to value the health, dignity and bodily integrity of all patients—especially the most vulnerable—and to promote flourishing for all.
‘Fighting a Global War Using a Local Strategy’: contextualism in COVID-19 response in Africa
Authors: Ochu Chinwe Lucia , Akande Oluwatosin Wuraola , Oyebanji Oyeronke , Aderinola Olaolu , Ogunbode Oladipo , Atteh Rhoda , Okwor Tochi , Oguanuo Emeka , Ojumu Tijesu , Ofoegbunam Chinenye , Ebhodaghe Blessing , Joseph Gbenga , Ibekwe Priscilla , Ihekweazu Chikwe
Published: April 2021

With a considerably high level of poverty, high population density and relatively fragile health systems, most African countries have a predominance of factors that could contribute to the rapid spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these challenges, the continent has shown capacity in its response to the pandemic. This may be related to the continent’s experience in responding to several infectious disease outbreaks such as Ebola disease, Lassa fever and cholera. Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, several local innovations have been developed and implemented. These innovations take into consideration unique circumstances in countries such as multiple government levels, belief in traditional medicine, limited access to medical supplies and others. This paper describes the various strategies developed in African countries across leadership and coordination, surveillance, laboratory capacity, case management, infection, prevention and control, risk communications, points of entry, research, logistics and supply chain, partnership, food security and education. We highlight the impact of these strategies on the response so far, and lessons that other regions across the world can learn from Africa’s response to COVID-19. Finally, we recommend the urgent need for increased investment in African health and social institutions to enable the development of African-owned and led strategies in response to disease outbreaks.
Effect of ultraprocessed food intake on cardiometabolic risk is mediated by diet quality: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Griffin Jennifer , Albaloul Anwar , Kopytek Alexandra , Elliott Paul , Frost Gary
Published: April 2021

Objective

To examine the effect of the consumption of ultraprocessed food on diet quality, and cardiometabolic risk (CMR) in an occupational cohort.

Design

Cross-sectional.

Setting

Occupational cohort.

Participants

53 163 British police force employees enrolled (2004–2012) into the Airwave Health Monitoring Study. A total of 28 forces across the UK agreed to participate. 9009 participants with available 7-day diet record data and complete co-variate data are reported in this study.

Main outcome measures

A CMR and Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension score were treated as continuous variables and used to generate measures of cardiometabolic health and diet quality. Secondary outcome measures include percentage of energy from fat, saturated fat, carbohydrate, protein and non-milk extrinsic sugars (NMES) and fibre grams per 1000 kcal of energy intake.

Results

In this cohort, 58.3%±11.6 of total energy intake was derived from ultraprocessed (NOVA 4) foods. Ultraprocessed food intake was negatively correlated with diet quality (r=−0.32, p<0.001), fibre (r=−0.20, p<0.001) and protein (r = −0.40, p<0.001) and positively correlated with fat (r=0.18, p<0.001), saturated fat (r=0.14, p<0.001) and nmes (r=0.10, p<0.001) intake . Multivariable analysis suggests a positive association between ultraprocessed food (NOVA 4) consumption and CMR. However, this main effect was no longer observed after adjustment for diet quality (p=0.209). Findings from mediation analysis indicate that the effect of ultraprocessed food (NOVA 4) intake on CMR is mediated by diet quality (p<0.001).

Conclusions

Ultraprocessed food consumption is associated with a deterioration in diet quality and positively associated with CMR, although this association is mediated by and dependent on the quality of the diet. The negative impact of ultraprocessed food consumption on diet quality needs to be addressed and controlled studies are needed to fully comprehend whether the relationship between ultraprocessed food consumption and health is independent to its relationship with poor diet quality.
Exploring physiotherapists’ and occupational therapists’ perceptions of the upper limb prediction algorithm PREP2 after stroke in a rehabilitation setting: a qualitative study
Authors: Lundquist Camilla Biering , Pallesen Hanne , Tjørnhøj-Thomsen Tine , Brunner Iris Charlotte
Published: April 2021

Objective

To explore how physiotherapists (PTs) and occupational therapists (OTs) perceive upper limb (UL) prediction algorithms in a stroke rehabilitation setting and identify potential barriers to and facilitators of their implementation.

Design

This was a qualitative study.

Setting

The study took place at a neurorehabilitation centre.

Participants

Three to six PTs and OTs.

Methods

We conducted four focus group interviews in order to explore therapists’ perceptions of UL prediction algorithms, in particular the Predict Recovery Potential algorithm (PREP2). The Consolidated Framework for advancing Implementation Research was used to develop the interview guide. Data were analysed using a thematic content analysis. Meaning units were identified and subthemes formed. Information gained from all interviews was synthesised, and four main themes emerged.

Results

The four main themes were current practice, perceived benefits, barriers and preconditions for implementation. The participants knew of UL prediction algorithms. However, only a few had a profound knowledge and few were using the Shoulder Abduction Finger Extension test, a core component of the PREP2 algorithm, in their current practice. PREP2 was considered a potentially helpful tool when planning treatment and setting goals. A main barrier was concern about the accuracy of the algorithm. Furthermore, participants dreaded potential dilemmas arising from having to confront the patients with their prognosis. Preconditions for implementation included tailoring the implementation to a specific unit, sufficient time for acquiring new skills and an organisation supporting implementation.

Conclusion

In the present study, experienced neurological therapists were sceptical towards prediction algorithms due to the lack of precision of the algorithms and concerns about ethical dilemmas. However, the PREP2 algorithm was regarded as potentially useful.
Processes of care and survival associated with treatment in specialist teenage and young adult cancer centres: results from the BRIGHTLIGHT cohort study
Authors: Fern Lorna A , Taylor Rachel M , Barber Julie , Alvarez-Galvez Javier , Feltbower Richard , Lea Sarah , Martins Ana , Morris Stephen , Hooker Louise , Gibson Faith , Raine Rosalind , Stark Dan P , Whelan Jeremy
Published: April 2021

Objective

Survival gains in teenagers and young adults (TYA) are reported to be lower than children and adults for some cancers. Place of care is implicated, influencing access to specialist TYA professionals and research.

Consequently, age-appropriate specialist cancer care is advocated for TYA although systematic investigation of associated outcomes is lacking. In England, age-appropriate care is delivered through 13 Principal Treatment Centres (TYA-PTC). BRIGHTLIGHT is the national evaluation of TYA cancer services to examine outcomes associated with differing places and levels of care. We aimed to examine the association between exposure to TYA-PTC care, survival and documentation of clinical processes of care.

Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

109 National Health Service (NHS) hospitals across England.

Participants

1114 TYA, aged 13–24, newly diagnosed with cancer between 2012 and 2014.

Intervention

Participants were assigned a TYA-PTC category dependent on the proportion of care delivered in a TYA-PTC in the first year after diagnosis: all care in a TYA-PTC (ALL-TYA-PTC, n=270), no care in a TYA-PTC (NO-TYA-PTC, n=359), and some care in a TYA-PTC with additional care in a children’s/adult unit (SOME-TYA-PTC, n=419).

Primary outcome

Data were collected on documented processes indicative of age-appropriate care using clinical report forms, and survival through linkage to NHS databases.

Results

TYA receiving NO-TYA-PTC care were less likely to have documentation of molecular diagnosis, be reviewed by a children’s or TYA multidisciplinary team, be assessed by supportive care services or have a fertility discussion. There was no significant difference in survival according to category of care. There was weak evidence that the association between care category and survival differed by age (p=0.08) with higher HRs for those over 19 receiving ALL or SOME-TYA-PTC compared with NO-TYA-PTC.

Conclusion

TYA-PTC care was associated with better documentation of clinical processes associated with age-appropriate care but not improved survival.
Clinicopathological predictors of survival in resected primary lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Jhala Hiral , Harling Leanne , Rodrigo Alberto , Nonaka Daisuke , Mclean Emma , Ng Wen , Okiror Lawrence , Bille Andrea
Published: April 2021

Aims

Primary lung adenocarcinoma consists of a spectrum of clinical and pathological subtypes that may impact on overall survival (OS). Our study aims to evaluate the impact of adenocarcinoma subtype and intra-alveolar spread on survival after anatomical lung resection and identify different prognostic factors based on stage and histological subtype.

Methods

Newly diagnosed patients undergoing anatomical lung resections without induction therapy, for pT1-3, N0-2 lung adenocarcinoma from April 2011 to March 2013, were included. The effect of clinical–pathological factors on survival was retrospectively assessed.

Results

Two hundred and sixty-two patients were enrolled. The 1-year, 3-year and 5-year OS were 88.8%, 64.3% and 51.1%, respectively. Univariate analysis showed lymphovascular, parietal pleural and chest wall invasion to confer a worse 1-year and 5-year prognosis (all p<0.0001). Solid predominant adenocarcinomas exhibited a significantly worse OS (p=0.014). Multivariate analysis did not identify solid subtype as an independent prognostic factor; however, identified stage >IIa, lymphovascular invasion (p=0.002) and intra-alveolar spread (p=0.009) as significant independent predictors of worse OS. Co-presence of intra-alveolar spread and solid predominance significantly reduced OS. Disease-free survival (DFS) was reduced with parietal pleural (p=0.0007) and chest wall invasion (p<0.0001), however, adenocarcinoma subtype had no significant impact on DFS.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates that solid predominant adenocarcinoma, intra-alveolar spread and lymphovascular invasion confer a worse prognosis and should be used as a prognostic tool to determine appropriate adjuvant treatment.
On the power of spontaneous collisions: preserving culture and effectiveness in the pandemic
Authors: Stoller James K
Published: April 2021

In the pivot to virtual interaction imposed by the coronavirus pandemic, some benefits have been realised, for example, time savings from avoiding commuting, the efficiency of back-to-back virtual meetings, needing to dress only from the waist up for work and so on. Yet, we also experience significant loss when our interactions are largely confined to being virtual. Specifically, spontaneous interactions between colleagues, what might be called ‘collisions,’ and their benefits are lost. Such collisions occur, for example, when we bump into a colleague while walking to or from a meeting and so on. These collisions are the nexus for maintaining connectivity between colleagues and can be a forum for creative exchanges that may lead to innovation and enhanced organisational effectiveness. Citing the experience of ‘bootlegging’ of time as a feature of organisations that thrive on innovation, this commentary discusses the value of spontaneous collisions in the healthcare environment. Given the persistence of virtual interaction throughout the pandemic and likely, to at least some extent thereafter, countermeasures to preserve spontaneous interaction in a virtual world and to maintain connectivity among colleagues are proposed. Awareness of the threats posed by a fully virtual experience and of these countermeasures are useful leadership attributes.
Terroir of winter hardiness: bud LT50, water metrics, yield, and berry composition in Ontario Cabernet franc
Authors: Jasinski Mary K. , Reynolds Andrew G. , Di Profio Frederick A. , Brown Ralph B. , Pasquier Audrey , Touffet Maxime , Fellman Rea , Lee Hyun-Suk
Published: April 2021

Winter hardiness may be influenced by vineyard terroir-driven factors, and vineyard zones with low water status [leaf water potential (ψ)] could be more winter hardy than vines with high water status (higher leaf ψ). Six Cabernet franc vineyards were chosen throughout the Niagara region in Ontario. Data were collected at fruit set, lag phase, and veraison [soil water content (SWC), leaf ψ], at harvest (yield components, berry composition), and three times during winter (LT50; the temperature at which 50% of buds die) in the 2010–2012 seasons. Interpolation by kriging and mapping of variables was completed using ArcGIS, and statistical analyses (linear correlation, k-means clustering, principal components analysis, multilinear regression) were performed. Spatial trends were observed in each vineyard for SWC, leaf ψ, yield components, berry composition, and LT50. Geographic information systems (GIS) and statistical analysis revealed that leaf ψ could predict LT50, with strong positive correlations between LT50and leaf ψ values in most vineyards in 2010–2011. In the dry 2012 season, leaf ψ (particularly at veraison; range −1.3 to −1.6 MPa) was positively correlated to LT50, yield, titratable acidity (TA), pH, and Brix and negatively to SWC, color, anthocyanins, and phenols. Overall, vineyards in different appellations (Niagara Lakeshore, Lincoln Lakeshore, Four Mile Creek, Beamsville Bench) showed many similarities. These results suggest that there is a spatial component to winter injury, as with other aspects of terroir. Furthermore, this study allows for means by which to compare winter hardiness to other critical variables to better understand the terroir of the Niagara region.
Glycyl Radical Enzymes and Sulfonate Metabolism in the Microbiome
Authors: Wei Yifeng , Zhang Yan
Published: April 2021

Sulfonates include diverse natural products and anthropogenic chemicals and are widespread in the environment. Many bacteria can degrade sulfonates and obtain sulfur, carbon, and energy for growth, playing important roles in the biogeochemical sulfur cycle. Cleavage of the inert sulfonate C–S bond involves a variety of enzymes, cofactors, and oxygen-dependent and oxygen-independent catalytic mechanisms. Sulfonate degradation by strictly anaerobic bacteria was recently found to involve C–S bond cleavage through O2-sensitive free radical chemistry, catalyzed by glycyl radical enzymes (GREs). The associated discoveries of new enzymes and metabolic pathways for sulfonate metabolism in diverse anaerobic bacteria have enriched our understanding of sulfonate chemistry in the anaerobic biosphere. An anaerobic environment of particular interest is the human gut microbiome, where sulfonate degradation by sulfate- and sulfite-reducing bacteria (SSRB) produces H2S, a process linked to certain chronic diseases and conditions.
Trust in Social Relations
Authors: Schilke Oliver , Reimann Martin , Cook Karen S.
Published: April 2021

Trust is key to understanding the dynamics of social relations, to the extent that it is often viewed as the glue that holds society together. We review the mounting sociological literature to help answer what trust is and where it comes from. To this end, we identify two research streams—on particularized trust and generalized trust, respectively—and propose an integrative framework that bridges these lines of research while also enhancing conceptual precision. This framework provides the springboard for identifying several important avenues for future research, including new investigations into the radius of trust, the intermediate form of categorical trust, and the interrelationships between different forms of trust. This article also calls for more scholarship focusing on the consequences (versus antecedents) of trust, addressing more fully the trustee side of the relation, and employing new empirical methods. Such novel approaches will ensure that trust research will continue to provide important insights into the functioning of modern society in the years to come.
The Influence of Some Electrolyte Additives on the Electrochemical Performance of Fe/Fe2+ Redox Reactions for Iron/Iron Redox Flow Batteries
Authors: Noack Jens , Berkers Max , Ortner Jens , Pinkwart Karsten
Published: April 2021

For the application in Fe/Fe-Redox-Flow-Batteries some important factors concerning the composition of the electrolyte and the influence of temperature on the properties of half-cell reactions were investigated. In contrast to previous investigations, the measurements were performed more realistically on deposited iron and by means of linear sweep voltammetry. Since the distinction between cathodic iron deposition and hydrogen generation is not possible by convention, with quantitative stripping analysis on a rotating disk electrode, partly a method was used to distinguish between these two reactions. The investigations were carried out at temperatures up to 80 °C, with addition of 10 mM of chlorides of Bi, Cu, In, Pb, Sn, Tl, Cd, Sb and Hg and different supporting salts of NH4
+, Li+, K+. Na+, Cs+, Mg2+ and Al3+.
Animal development in the secondary classroom: linking basic science to livestock production
Authors: Gomez Noe A. , Du Min
Published: April 2021

The field of life sciences encompasses a myriad of disciplines that collectively provide insight toward the intrinsic framework of life. Developmental physiology is one of these disciplines that can describe the origins of life at the molecular, cellular, tissue, and organismal level. However, organismal development is a continual process that transcends conception and progresses throughout the lifetime of an organism. In this Illumination, we discuss opportunities that secondary-level life science educators have when teaching developmental physiology through an agricultural lens. Specifically, we propose teaching about the origins of meat and milk, as a nontraditional approach for introducing developmental physiology to students. To justify this notion, we explore how novel research in livestock production focuses on meeting food demands imposed by our growing global population. In addition, we link these concepts to commonly employed standards in secondary-level science classrooms across the United States. In conclusion, the science of livestock production provides a window of opportunity for secondary-level physiology instructors to teach developmental physiology in a form that can readily adhere to institutionally employed standards.
It’s in the syllabus … or is it? How biology syllabi can serve as communication tools for creating inclusive classrooms at a large-enrollment research institution
Authors: Gin Logan E. , Scott Rachel A. , Pfeiffer Leilani D. , Zheng Yi , Cooper Katelyn M. , Brownell Sara E.
Published: April 2021

Syllabi are usually required by institutions of higher education and often are the first exposure that students have to a particular course. Instructors can use syllabi as a mechanism to convey important information to students. Moreover, a syllabus can be considered a tool to create inclusive biology courses by transmitting information to all students equitably. In this study, we examined 75 biology course syllabi collected from a research-intensive institution to examine what content instructors include. We reviewed the syllabi to determine the presence or absence of elements and assessed to what extent there were differences in the presence or absence of certain syllabus elements based on course level and course size. We found that instructors are most likely to include content about course expectations and least likely to include content about creating positive classroom climate on their course syllabi. Despite university requirements, many instructors did not include the university-mandated criteria and they did not include elements that could increase how inclusive students perceive the course to be. However, instructors more often included inclusive content when it was required by the university. We also found that students enrolled in upper level courses and small enrollment courses are provided with less content on their syllabi, which we would then interpret as a less inclusive syllabus. We discuss the implications of how these results may differentially impact students in these courses and how the syllabus can be a tool for creating more inclusive college biology courses.
MicroRNA-129-5p inhibits C2C12 myogenesis and represses slow fiber gene expression in vitro
Authors: Peng Ying , Xu Meixue , Dou Mingle , Shi Xin’E , Yang Gongshe , Li Xiao
Published: April 2021

The miR-129 family is widely reported as tumor repressors, although their roles in skeletal muscle have not been fully investigated. Here, the function and mechanism of miR-129-5p in skeletal muscle, a member of the miR-129 family, were explored using C2C12 cell line. Our study showed that miR-129-5p was widely detected in mouse tissues, with the highest expression in skeletal muscle. Gain- and loss-of-function study showed that miR-129-5p could negatively regulate myogenic differentiation, indicated by reduced ratio of MyHC-positive myofibers and repressed expression of myogenic genes, such as MyoD, MyoG, and MyHC. Furthermore, miR-129-5p was more enriched in fast extensor digitorum longus (EDL) than in slow soleus (SOL). Enhanced miR-129-5p could significantly reduce the expression of mitochondrial cox family, together with that of MyHC I, and knockdown of miR-129-5p conversely increased the expression of cox genes and MyHC I. Mechanistically, miR-129-5p directly targeted the 3′-UTR of Mef2a, which was suppressed by miR-129-5p agomir at both mRNA and protein levels in C2C12 cells. Moreover, overexpression of Mef2a could rescue the inhibitory effects of miR-129-5p on the expression of myogenic factors and MyHC I. Collectively, our data revealed that miR-129-5p is a negative regulator of myogenic differentiation and slow fiber gene expression, thus affecting body metabolic homeostasis.
Ivacaftor partially corrects airway inflammation in a humanized G551D rat
Authors: Green Morgan , Lindgren Natalie , Henderson Alexander , Keith Johnathan D. , Oden Ashley M. , Birket Susan E.
Published: April 2021

Animal models have been highly informative for understanding the pathogenesis and progression of cystic fibrosis (CF) lung disease. In particular, the CF rat models recently developed have addressed mechanistic causes of the airway mucus defect characteristic of CF, and how these may change when cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) activity is restored using new modulator therapies. We hypothesized that inflammatory changes to the airway would develop spontaneously and progressively, and that these changes would be resolved with modulator therapy. To test this, we used a humanized-CFTR rat expressing the G551D variant that responds to the CFTR modulator ivacaftor. Markers typically found in the CF lung were assessed, including neutrophil influx, small airway histopathology, and inflammatory cytokine concentration. Young hG551D rats did not express inflammatory cytokines at baseline but did upregulate these in response to inflammatory trigger. As the hG551D rats aged, histopathology worsened, accompanied by neutrophil influx into the airway and increasing concentrations of TNF-α, IL-1α, and IL-6 in the airways. Ivacaftor administration reduced concentrations of these cytokines when administered to the rats at baseline but was less effective in the rats that had also received inflammatory stimulus. Therefore, we conclude that administration of ivacaftor resulted in an incomplete resolution of inflammation when rats received an external trigger, suggesting that CFTR activation may not be enough to resolve inflammation in the lungs of patients with CF.