bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Creation of well‐balanced experimental groups for comparative endodontic laboratory studies: a new proposal based on micro‐CT and in silico methods
Authors: De‐Deus G. , Simões‐Carvalho M. , Belladonna F. G. , Versiani M. A. , Silva E. J. N. L. , Cavalcante D. M. , Souza E. M. , Johnsen G. F. , Haugen H. J. , Paciornik S.
Published: March 2020

Aim

To introduce a new method to select anatomically matched teeth using micro‐computed tomographic (micro‐CT) technology.

Methodology

Single‐rooted mandibular incisors with a single root canal (n = 60) were selected and distributed into three experimental groups according to the method used for matching 10 pairs of teeth in each group. In group 1, the pairs of mandibular incisors were randomly selected from a pool of teeth. In group 2, teeth were paired based on the measurement of canal width 5 mm from the root apex using radiographs taken from buccolingual and mesiodistal directions. In group 3, teeth were scanned (pixel size of 14.25 μm) and pair‐matched based on the anatomical aspects of the root canal, named aspect ratio (AR), volume and three‐dimensional canal geometry. After allocating the specimens into groups 1 and 2, the teeth were scanned and the canal morphology evaluated as in group 3. A bivariate Pearson’s regression analysis was performed correlating the individual AR values of each pair, and the correlation coefficient was used to estimate the strength of the pair‐matching process. One‐way anova post hoc Tukey’s tests were applied for pairwise comparisons at a significance level of 5%.

Results

The micro‐CT revealed that 100% of the samples had strong (80%) or very strong (20%) correlations with respect to AR values. Analysis of the radiographic method revealed strong correlation in two pairs (20%), but most of the samples had weak (30%) or negligible (30%) correlation coefficients. The randomization method resulted in three pairs (30%) with very strong correlations, whilst 50% had weak or negligible rates. A significant difference in correlation coefficients was observed in the micro‐CT method compared to the other groups (P < 0.05), whilst no difference was detected between radiographic and randomized methods (P > 0.05). Eta‐squared (η2) calculations demonstrated a very high effect size in the micro‐CT group for selecting pairs (0.99) and lower effect sizes in the radiographic (0.67) and randomized (0.66) groups.

Conclusions

Use of Micro‐CT was able to provide better control of the confounding effect that anatomical variances in tooth morphology may have on the results in experiments with matched‐pair design.
The Social Policy Indicators (SPIN) database
Authors: Nelson Kenneth , Fredriksson Daniel , Korpi Tomas , Korpi Walter , Palme Joakim , Sjöberg Ola
Published: March 2020

The Social Policy Indicators (SPIN) database provides the foundations for new comparative and longitudinal research on the causes behind, and the consequences of, welfare states and social citizenship rights. The SPIN database is oriented towards analyses of institutions as manifested in social policy legislation. To date, SPIN covers 40 countries, of which several have data on core social policy programmes from 1930. There are currently six data modules in SPIN, covering different social policy areas. The following research note describes the theoretical and conceptual basis of the SPIN project, as well as the data it contains.
Harnessing the immune system via FcγR function in immune therapy: a pathway to next‐gen mAbs
Authors: Chenoweth Alicia M , Wines Bruce D , Anania Jessica C , Mark Hogarth P
Published: March 2020

The human fragment crystallizable (Fc)γ receptor (R) interacts with antigen‐complexed immunoglobulin (Ig)G ligands to both activate and modulate a powerful network of inflammatory host‐protective effector functions that are key to the normal physiology of immune resistance to pathogens. More than 100 therapeutic monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are approved or in late stage clinical trials, many of which harness the potent FcγR‐mediated effector systems to varying degrees. This is most evident for antibodies targeting cancer cells inducing antibody‐dependent killing or phagocytosis but is also true to some degree for the mAbs that neutralize or remove small macromolecules such as cytokines or other Igs. The use of mAb therapeutics has also revealed a “scaffolding” role for FcγR which, in different contexts, may either underpin the therapeutic mAb action such as immune agonism or trigger catastrophic adverse effects. The still unmet therapeutic need in many cancers, inflammatory diseases or emerging infections such as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) requires increased effort on the development of improved and novel mAbs. A more mature appreciation of the immunobiology of individual FcγR function and the complexity of the relationships between FcγRs and antibodies is fueling efforts to develop more potent “next‐gen” therapeutic antibodies. Such development strategies now include focused glycan or protein engineering of the Fc to increase affinity and/or tailor specificity for selective engagement of individual activating FcγRs or the inhibitory FcγRIIb or alternatively, for the ablation of FcγR interaction altogether. This review touches on recent aspects of FcγR and IgG immunobiology and its relationship with the present and future actions of therapeutic mAbs.
Pleiotropic effects of vitamin D3on CD4+T lymphocytes mediated by human periodontal ligament cells and inflammatory environment
Authors: Behm Christian , Blufstein Alice , Gahn Johannes , Kubin Barbara , Moritz Andreas , Rausch‐Fan Xiaohui , Andrukhov Oleh
Published: March 2020

Aims

Both, vitamin D3and human periodontal ligament cells (hPDLCs) possess immunosuppressive properties, but their combined effect on immune cells has never been investigated. Here, we analysed the impact of vitamin D3on the immunosuppressive properties of hPDLCs towards CD4+T lymphocytes.

Material and Methods

Allogenic CD4+T lymphocytes were activated by phytohemagglutinin either in monoculture or co‐culture with hPDLCs, in the presence or absence of IFN‐γ and 1,25(OH)2D3. After 5 days, CD4+T‐lymphocyte proliferation, CD4+CD25+FoxP3+regulatory T lymphocytes (Tregs) proportion and IL‐10, TGF‐β1 and IL‐17A production were analysed.

Results

In monoculture, 1,25(OH)2D3suppressed CD4+T‐lymphocyte proliferation, increased the percentage of CD4+FoxP3+CD25+FoxP3+Tregsand enhanced IL‐10 and TGF‐β1 production. In the presence of IFN‐γ treated hPDLCs, 1,25(OH)2D3significantly increased CD4+T‐lymphocyte proliferation and decreased the percentage of CD4+CD25+FoxP3+Tregs. IL‐10 and IL‐17A expression was significantly diminished by 1,25(OH)2D3, whereas TGF‐β1 was slightly increased. The effects of 1,25(OH)2D3in co‐culture were reversed by inhibition of indoleamine‐2,3‐dioxygenase‐1, prostaglandin‐endoperoxide synthase and programmed cell death 1 ligand 1. 1,25(OH)2D3also suppressed the expression of these proteins in hPDLCs.

Conclusion

Effects of vitamin D3on CD4+T lymphocyte are modified by hPDLCs depending on the microenvironment.
Use of Electronic Health Records by Older Adults, 85 Years and Older, and Their Caregivers
Authors: Ramirez‐Zohfeld Vanessa , Seltzer Anne , Xiong Linda , Morse Lucy , Lindquist Lee A.
Published: March 2020

BACKGROUND

Healthcare providers may not offer patient portal (PP) access to electronic health records (EHRs) to their patients older than 85 years, due to the false impression that they do not utilize technology. It is imperative that older adults be given equal opportunity to use technology in regard to their healthcare.

OBJECTIVE

To characterize the content and frequency of use of PP messaging tethered to EHRs by older adults, aged 85 years and older, and their caregivers.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

User‐initiated communications from electronic PPs (MyChart) tethered to an EHR (Epic) for patients who were 85 years and older, receiving care at outpatient internal medicine and geriatric clinics at an academic health center from July 1, 2016, to December 31, 2016, were reviewed retrospectively and analyzed with mixed methods.

RESULTS

A total of 1254 user‐initiated messages, sent by 62 patients aged 85 years and older (mean age = 87.9 years; n = 576 messages; mean = 9.9 messages per person) and 82 caregivers (n = 678 messages; mean = 7.8 messages per person), were analyzed. Qualitative analysis revealed 12 main themes: clinical issues, medication/vaccine questions, medication refills, laboratory orders/results, therapy/durable medical equipment, care coordination, care transitions, scheduling, appreciation/thank you, administrative/billing, telephone requests, and death notification. Caregivers significantly initiated messages more for care transitions (P < .001). Patients significantly initiated messages more for scheduling (P = .04) and medication refills (P = .04). Patients who had heart failure, coronary artery disease, or Alzheimerʼs disease were significantly more likely to have caregivers using the PP as their proxy (30.7% vs 21.6%; P = .01).

CONCLUSIONS

Adults, aged 85 years and older, and their caregivers utilize PPs tethered to EHRs. Healthcare providers should ensure inclusivity and offer access to EHRs to older adult populations, especially those aged 85 years and older. J Am Geriatr Soc 68:1078–1082, 2020
Effect of biting speed and jaw separation on force used to incise food
Authors: Paphangkorakit Jarin , Chaichit Rajda , Khummool Kakanank , Nopphaisit Saowalak , Saengsai Assanon
Published: March 2020

Biting food too quickly might affect the control of jaw‐closing muscles and the estimation of bite force. The objectives of this study were to compare the incisal bite forces used to cut food and the activity of masseter (MA) and anterior temporalis (AT) muscles between slow, habitual and fast biting speeds and also between small and large jaw openings. Twenty subjects were asked to use their incisors to cut through a 5 mm thick of chewing gum. In the first experiment, subjects bit at 10‐mm incisal separation with slow, habitual and fast biting speeds, and in the second experiment, subjects bit with their habitual speed at 10‐ and 30‐mm incisal separations. The activities in the MA and AT muscles were assessed with surface electromyography, and the bite force was recorded by a force sensor placed beneath the chewing gum. Peak bite forces and associated MA amplitudes were increased significantly as biting speed was increased (P's < .05). Anterior temporalis amplitude was significantly increased during fast biting compared to slow and habitual biting (P's < .001). At 30‐mm incisal separation, both peak bite force and AT amplitude were significantly increased, whereas MA amplitude was significantly decreased, compared to those at 10‐mm separation (P's < .05). Biting off food quickly with incisor teeth results in larger activities in both MA and AT muscles. In addition, biting a large piece of food resulted in increased activity of AT muscle. Both conditions could be injury stimulator for jaw muscles.
What God Cannot Do: Divine Power, the Gratuity of Grace, and Henri De Lubac
Authors: Lombardo Nicholas E.
Published: March 2020

When Pius XII promulgated his encyclical Humani generis in 1950, it was widely read as censuring Henri de Lubac’s views on human nature and the desire for God. In recent years, as controversies about nature and grace have revived, this reading of Humani generis has been widely assumed by supporters and critics of de Lubac alike. Henri de Lubac, however, always insisted that the encyclical did not touch his position. This article will argue that, whatever the objectives of the encyclical’s drafters, he was correct. It will make its case by turning to an issue neglected in contemporary debates about nature and grace: divine power. It will first trace the history of Christian reflection on divine power, a story whose twists and turns have only recently been uncovered by medieval historians, and then argue that, with this history in view, interpreting the crucial line in Humani generis as excluding de Lubac’s position becomes untenable. Finally, this article will discuss the implications of this conclusion for contemporary accounts of human nature, the desire for God, and the gratuity of grace.
Influence of Congruency Design on the Contact Stress of a Novel Hinged Knee Prosthesis Using Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Zhang Jing‐yu , Tian Dong‐mu , Ren Zhi‐peng , Hu Yong‐cheng , Yu Xiu‐chun
Published: March 2020

Objectives

To investigate the contact stress and the contact area o tibial inserts and bushings with respect to different congruency designs in a spherical center axis and rotating bearing hinge knee prosthesis under gait cycle loading conditions using finite element analysis.

Methods

Nine prostheses with different congruency (different degrees of tibiofemoral conformity and different distances between the spherical center and the bushing) designs were developed with the same femoral and tibial components. The models were transferred to finite element software. The peak contact stresses and contact areas on tibial inserts and bushings under the gait cycle loading conditions were investigated and compared.

Results

For tibial insert, the peak contact stress was the highest in the low conformity‐long group (61.4486 MPa), and it was 1.88 times higher than that in the group with the lowest stress (moderate conformity‐short group, 32.754 MPa). The contact area was the largest in the low conformity‐long group (420.485 mm2), and it was 1.19 times larger than that in the group with the smallest area (moderate conformity‐middle group, 352.332 mm2). For bushing, the peak contact stress was the highest in the high conformity‐long group (72.8093 MPa), and it was 3.21 times higher than that in the group with the lowest stress (high conformity‐short group, 22.6928 MPa). The contact area was the largest in the low conformity‐short group (2.41 mm2), and it was 2.27 times larger than that in the group with the smallest area (high conformity‐middle group, 1.063 mm2).

Conclusion

The results of our study showed that the congruency of the tibiofemoral surface and bushing surface should be considered carefully in the design of the spherical center axis and rotating bearing hinge knee prosthesis. Different levels of contact performance were observed with different congruency designs. In addition, the influence of contact stress and contact area on the polyethylene wear of rotating hinge knee prostheses should be confirmed with additional laboratory tests.
Persistent ventilation inhomogeneity after an acute exacerbation in preschool children with recurrent wheezing
Authors: Kowalik Krzysztof , Dai Ruixue , Safavi Shahideh , Reyna Myrtha E. , Lou Wendy , Lepine Claire , McDonald Erica , Schaap Mirjam J. , Brydges May G. , Dubeau Aimee , Boutis Kathy , Narang Indra , Eiwegger Thomas , Moraes Theo J. , Ratjen Felix , Subbarao Padmaja
Published: March 2020

Background

Preschool children with recurrent wheezing suffer high morbidity. It is unclear whether objective measures of asthma control, such as pulmonary function tests (PFTs), provide additional information to the clinical assessment.

Methods

We recruited children between 3 and 6 years old, with a history of recurrent wheezing in the preceding year and treated for acute wheezing exacerbation in the emergency department (ED) into an observational cohort study. Children attended two outpatient visits: the first study visit within five days of discharge from the ED and the second study visit 12 weeks after the ED visit. We performed standardized symptom score (test for respiratory and asthma control in kids (TRACK)), multiple breath washout (MBW), spirometry, and clinical assessment at both visits.

Results

Seventy‐four children, mean (standard deviation (SD)) age of 4.32 years (0.84), attended both visits. Paired FEV0.75 and lung clearance index (LCI) measurements at both time points were obtained in 37 and 34 subjects, respectively. Feasibility for all tests improved at visit 2 and was not age‐dependent. At the second study visit, a third had controlled asthma based on the TRACK score, and the mean lung clearance index (LCI) improved from 9.86 to 8.31 (P = .003); however, 46% had an LCI in the abnormal range. FEV0.75 z‐score improved from −1.66 to −1.17 (P = .05) but remained in the abnormal range in 24%. LCI was abnormal in more than half of the children with “well‐controlled” asthma based on the TRACK score. There was no correlation between PFT measures and TRACK scores at either visit.

Conclusions

Lung clearance index demonstrates a persistent deficit post‐exacerbation in a large proportion of preschoolers with recurrent wheezing, highlighting that symptom scores alone may not suffice for monitoring these children.
Impact of dipyridamole on adenosine dosing in pediatric and young adult patients after heart transplantation
Authors: Satzer Michael B. , Flyer Jonathan N. , Zuckerman Warren A. , Liberman Leonardo , Richmond Marc E. , Anderson Brett R. , Addonizio Linda J. , Silver Eric S.
Published: March 2020

Background

Relative contraindications to adenosine use have included heart transplant and dipyridamole. We previously demonstrated the safety and efficacy of adenosine‐induced atrioventricular (AV) block in healthy young heart transplant recipients while suspending dipyridamole therapy (dual antiplatelet agent). This prospective follow‐up study evaluated the safety and efficacy of adenosine use in the same cohort of heart transplant recipients while on dipyridamole.

Methods

Adenosine was incrementally dosed until AV block occurred (maximum 200 mcg/kg up to 12 mg). The primary outcome was clinically significant asystole (≥12 seconds). Secondary outcomes included maximal adenosine dose, AV block duration, dysrhythmias, and clinical symptoms. Outcomes were compared to the parent study.

Results

Thirty of 39 eligible patients (5‐24 years) were tested. No patient (0%, CI 0%‐8%) experienced clinically significant asystole. AV block occurred in 29/30 patients (97%, CI 86%‐100%). The median dose causing AV block was 50mcg/kg (vs 100 mcg/kg off dipyridamole; P = .011). Seventeen patients (57%, CI 39%‐72%) required less adenosine to achieve AV block on dipyridamole; six (20%) required more. AV block occurred at doses ≥25 mcg/kg in all patients. In pairwise comparison to prior testing off dipyridamole, no significant change occurred in AV block duration, frequency of cardiac ectopy, or incidence of reported symptoms. No atrial fibrillation/flutter occurred.

Conclusions

AV block often occurs at twofold lower adenosine doses in healthy young heart transplant recipients taking oral dipyridamole, compared with previous testing of this cohort off dipyridamole. Results suggest that initial dosing of 25 mcg/kg (maximum 0.8 mg) with stepwise escalation poses low risk of prolonged asystole on dipyridamole.
The effect of flood intermittency on bifurcations in fluviodeltaic systems: Experiment and theory
Authors: Daniller‐Varghese Max S. , Kim Wonsuck , Mohrig David C.
Published: March 2020

The dimensions and organization of deltaic islands and channels dictate delta morphology. This study presents experimental results modelling deposition at a river mouth and flow bifurcation around delta islands. Mouth bar formation and channel bifurcation is achieved in a laboratory setting by alternating input of suspended load transport and bedload transport. These two modes of transport produce two characteristic deposits with different advection lengths. Suspended load transport creates a steep deposit far from the inlet, while bedload creates a low angle, levéed deposit near the inlet. This study found that flow bifurcations occur where the proximal and distal deposits encroach on one another; and determined that there is a relationship between the frequency of suspended load transport and the length to channel bifurcation. Frequent flooding causes shorter length to bifurcations, whereas infrequent flooding causes greater length to bifurcations. This work overturns the hitherto understood mechanism of bifurcation location as a function of only high‐transport conditions. Instead, the interactions between the sediment transport and deposition from normal flow and large‐scale flooding events dictate delta island morphology.
Oryza sativa Lysine‐Histidine‐type Transporter 1 functions in root uptake and root‐to‐shoot allocation of amino acids in rice
Authors: Guo Nan , Hu Jinqi , Yan Ming , Qu Hongye , Luo Le , Tegeder Mechthild , Xu Guohua
Published: March 2020

In agricultural soils, amino acids can represent vital nitrogen (N) sources for crop growth and yield. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying amino acid uptake and allocation are poorly understood in crop plants. This study shows that rice (Oryza sativa L.) roots can acquire aspartate at soil concentration, and that japonica subspecies take up this acidic amino acid 1.5‐fold more efficiently than indica subspecies. Genetic association analyses with 68 representative japonica or indica germplasms identified rice Lysine‐Histidine‐type Transporter 1 (OsLHT1) as a candidate gene associated with the aspartate uptake trait. When expressed in yeast, OsLHT1 supported cell growth on a broad spectrum of amino acids, and effectively transported aspartate, asparagine and glutamate. OsLHT1 is localized throughout the rice root, including root hairs, epidermis, cortex and stele, and to the leaf vasculature. Knockout of OsLHT1 in japonica resulted in reduced root uptake of amino acids. Furthermore, in 15N‐amino acid‐fed mutants versus wild‐type, a higher percentage of 15N remained in roots instead of being allocated to the shoot. 15N‐ammonium uptake and subsequently the delivery of root‐synthesized amino acids to Oslht1 shoots were also significantly decreased, which was accompanied by reduced shoot growth. These results together provide evidence that OsLHT1 functions in both root uptake and root to shoot allocation of a broad spectrum of amino acids in rice.
Retrospective review of cataract surgery outcomes in Miniature Schnauzers
Authors: Rogen Andrew J. , Moradi Rekabdarkolaee Hossein
Published: March 2020

Objective

Miniature Schnauzers commonly develop both inherited and diabetic cataracts. Miniature Schnauzers also often present with concurrent metabolic disease at the time of cataract surgery. The purpose of this study was to evaluate cataract surgery outcomes in Miniature Schnauzers.

Materials and methods

The Eye Care for Animals electronic medical record database (2012‐2018) was searched for “phacoemulsification” and “Miniature Schnauzer.” A minimum follow‐up time of 1 year was required for inclusion in the study. Clinical history, pre‐ and postoperative bloodwork, postoperative treatments, and visual outcomes were reviewed in all cases.

Results

Cataract surgery was performed on 67 patients and 124 eyes. 93.5% (116/124) of operated eyes were visual 1 year following cataract surgery. At the time of surgery, 79.1% were diabetic, 64.2% had hypercholesterolemia, 55.2% had hypertriglyceridemia, 16.4% had hyperadrenocorticism, and 9% had a history of pancreatitis. Dorzolamide was used postoperatively in 61.2% of patients, and its use was significantly associated with postoperative cholesterol levels above reference range. Lipemic aqueous occurred in 13.4% of patients.

Conclusions

Miniature Schnauzers presenting for cataract surgery are frequently affected by metabolic diseases and dyslipidemia; however, cataract surgery outcomes were not significantly affected during the study period. Dietary management, omega‐3 fatty acid supplementation, and oral fibrates may reduce the incidence of lipemic aqueous in Miniature Schnauzers.
Metaphorical Perception of School Counsellors Regarding Migration from Syria
Authors: Gürgan Uğur
Published: March 2020

The main purpose of this study is to determine perceptions, of school counsellors working with Syrian and other students under temporary protection (SOSuTP) in the Ministry of National Education via metaphors, and categories classified with these metaphors. In this study, the perceptions of the school counsellors who have SOSuTP, were determined using the phenomenology pattern of qualitative research methods. The criterion sampling method was chosen from the purposive sampling techniques for the selection of work group. For this reason, it was considered that all of the school counsellors participating in the study have at least 15 SOSuTP and have experiences about migration from Syria. The chosen group for this purpose consisted of 338 school counsellors, of which 282 were male and 56 were female, from 35 different provinces. To uncover perceptions of school counsellors regarding migration from Syria with metaphors, school counsellors were asked to complete “Migration from Syria is like...., because ....”. “Metaphoric Perception Text” were analyzed with content analysis method. Based on analysis of metaphors developed by school counsellors, 7 different conceptual categories were created. Frequency and percentage level of these categories were as follows: (1) disaster/ sadness (f = 100, 29.6%), (2) escape/salvation/helplessness (f = 67, 19.8%), (3) separation/exile (f = 65, 19.2%), (2) hopeful future expectation (f = 38, 11.2%), (5) increase/no end/uncertainty (f = 35, 10.2%), (6) big game/elephants and grasses (f = 17, 5.0%), (7) were unintentional (f = 16, 2.7%). When obtained metaphors were analyzed, it was seen that negative crises, disasters, negative migration and hijra, negative separation in family and unstoppable negative natural events were used. In order to diminish these negative thoughts, multicultural in-service training should be provided to school administrators, teachers and school counselors in order to provide the best possible education according to their culture for SOSuTP. Moreover, teachers and administrators who deal with children and suffer from war trauma, can have a “secondary trauma”, it may be advisable to provide teachers with psychosocial support in this context.
Thermodynamic Analysis of Solar Low-Temperature Differential Stirling Engine Considering Imperfect Regeneration and Thermal Losses
Authors: Ramachandran Siddharth , Kumar Naveen , Timmaraju Mallina Venkata
Published: March 2020

Low-temperature differential Stirling engines (LTDSE) are the gamma-type Stirling engines that can produce useful work from source temperatures less than 350 K, making them a preferred choice/device for solar energy utilization. An improved mathematical model to evaluate the performance of the solar-operated LTDSE has been developed by incorporating the top heat loss coefficient correlation with the finite-time thermodynamic model of the Stirling engine. In order to realize the internal imperfections of the thermodynamic Stirling cycle, the effect of the imperfect regeneration process is incorporated. Input parameters such as absorber plate temperature, irradiation, and geometrical features of the solar LTDSE are taken from real-time experimental data available in the literature. The effect of convective and radiation heat transfer coefficients of working fluid on maximum power output and thermal efficiency is determined to be significant and marginal, respectively. A comprehensive study of various working fluids and regenerator materials is carried out to investigate their impact on the performance of solar LTDSE. Helium is the best-working fluid, among air, hydrogen, ethane, and nitrogen for the considered model. Copper exhibited maximum regenerator effectiveness compared with Monel 400, aluminum, SS-304L.
Design, Fabrication, and Partial Characterization of a Solar Receiver and Air-Cooled Heat Exchanger for a Concentrated Solar Power Supercritical CO2 Testbed
Authors: Nobles-Lookingbill Danielle , Sahm Aaron , Hurt Rick , Boehm Robert
Published: March 2020

This research details the design, fabrication, and partial testing of a concentrated solar receiver and an air-cooled heat exchanger. The solar receiver and heat exchanger have been fabricated for use in an experimental system that uses the supercritical carbon dioxide Brayton cycle. They are coupled with a Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC) solar dish 250× concentrator located on the University of Nevada, Las Vegas campus. The purpose of this solar-powered supercritical CO2 system is to function as a testbed for testing the cycle, system components, and alternate system configurations. Photographic flux mapping of the dish showed peak solar flux just above 200× and is used to appropriately size the receiver. Sun tests of the tubing, receiver, and air-cooled heat exchanger were performed achieving fluid temperatures in the range of 973 K (700 °C) using nitrogen in an open loop at low mass flowrates, and above 1173-K (900 °C) receiver wall temperatures in a no-flow case.
Investigation of the Effect of Porous Material on the Flow and Temperature Patterns of a Passive Solar Air Heater
Authors: Kumar Digpal , Premachandran B.
Published: March 2020

In this work, the effect of flow resistance due to the presence of porous medium representing agricultural products at the exit of free convection-based solar air heater is studied experimentally and numerically. An air heater, along with the drying chamber, is designed as an inclined channel to conduct the experiments. Constant heat flux condition is provided by electrical heating on the top absorber plate of the channel. Experiments are conducted for heat flux ranging from 250 to 750 W/m2 for the channel inclination angle of 30 deg. Porous material bed height is also varied in the drying chamber, while porosity is set at 0.36. The surface-to-surface radiation model is considered for modeling of heat transfer within the flow. For all the heat flux values considered in the experiments, numerical simulations are performed at three different angles of inclinations of 15 deg, 30 deg, and 45 deg. In this analysis, the temperature distribution in the channel wall, the flow pattern, the difference in the mass flowrate, and temperature of the outlet air are investigated with different heights of the porous medium.
Ice Penetration by a Bluff-Body Melting Probe
Authors: Weinberg Kerstin , Ortiz Michael
Published: March 2020

We analyze the operation of melting probes as a Stefan problem for the liquid/solid interface surrounding the probe. We assume that the liquid layer is thin and, therefore, amenable to analysis by the lubrication theory. The resulting Stefan problem is solvable in the closed form. The solution determines the dependence of the penetration speed on the temperature differential between the probe and the surrounding ice, the size, shape and weight of the probe, the viscosity of liquid water and the thermal properties of solid ice.
System Reliability Analysis With Autocorrelated Kriging Predictions
Authors: Wu Hao , Zhu Zhifu , Du Xiaoping
Published: March 2020

When limit-state functions are highly nonlinear, traditional reliability methods, such as the first-order and second-order reliability methods, are not accurate. Monte Carlo simulation (MCS), on the other hand, is accurate if a sufficient sample size is used but is computationally intensive. This research proposes a new system reliability method that combines MCS and the Kriging method with improved accuracy and efficiency. Accurate surrogate models are created for limit-state functions with minimal variance in the estimate of the system reliability, thereby producing high accuracy for the system reliability prediction. Instead of employing global optimization, this method uses MCS samples from which training points for the surrogate models are selected. By considering the autocorrelation of a surrogate model, this method captures the more accurate contribution of each MCS sample to the uncertainty in the estimate of the serial system reliability and therefore chooses training points efficiently. Good accuracy and efficiency are demonstrated by four examples.
Report on Engineering Design Self-Efficacy and Demographics of Makerspace Participants Across Three Universities
Authors: Hilton Ethan C. , Talley Kimberly G. , Smith Shaunna F. , Nagel Robert L. , Linsey Julie S.
Published: March 2020

University makerspaces have been touted as a possible avenue for improving student learning, engagement, retention, and creativity. As their popularity has increased worldwide, so has the amount of research investigating their establishment, management, and uses. There have, however, been very few studies that use empirical data to evaluate how these spaces are impacting the people using them. This study of three university makerspaces measures engineering design (ED) self-efficacy and how it is correlated with involvement in the makerspaces, along with student demographics. The three university makerspaces include a relatively new makerspace at a Hispanic-serving university in the southwestern US, makerspaces at an eastern liberal arts university with an engineering program that has been created within the last decade, and a makerspace at a large, research university in the southeast often considered to be one of the top programs in the US. Students at all three universities are surveyed to determine their involvement in their university's makerspace and how they perceive their own abilities in engineering design. The findings presented in this paper show a positive correlation between engineering design self-efficacy (EDSE) and involvement in academic makerspaces. Correlations are also seen between certain demographic factors and the percentage of students who choose to use the academic makerspace available to them. These findings provide crucial empirical evidence to the community on the self-efficacy of students who use makerspaces and provide support for universities to continue making these spaces available to their students.
Development of the Canadian Digit Triplet Test in English and French
Authors: Giguère Christian , Lagacé Josée , Ellaham Nicolas N. , Pichora-Fuller M. Kathleen , Goy Huiwen , Bégin Camille , Alary Émilie , Bowman Rachael
Published: March 2020

The Canadian Digit Triplet Test was developed in English and French, the official languages of Canada. Four versions were developed on a common software platform using recordings produced by two fluent bilinguals, one male and one female, following procedures recommended by international guidelines. Phase I of test development focused on homogenizing digit recognition across tokens and positions within the triplets for young adults with normal hearing (n = 48). In phase II, normative data were collected for young adults with normal hearing (n = 64). Statistical properties were found to be uniform across test versions and comparable to digit triplet tests in other languages.
An array of 60,000 antibodies for proteome-scale antibody generation and target discovery
Authors: Wang Zhaohui , Li Yang , Hou Bing , Pronobis Mira I. , Wang Mingqiao , Wang Yuemeng , Cheng Guangcun , Weng Weining , Wang Yiqiang , Tang Yanfang , Xu Xuefan , Pan Rong , Lin Fei , Wang Nan , Chen Ziqing , Wang Shiwei , Ma Luyan zulie , Li Yangrui , Huang Dongliang , Jiang Li , Wang Zhiqiang , Zeng Wenfang , Zhang Ying , Du Xuemei , Lin Ying , Li Zhiqing , Xia Qingyou , Geng Jing , Dai Huaping , Yu Yuan , Zhao Xiao-dong , Yuan Zheng , Yan Jian , Nie Qinghua , Zhang Xiquan , Wang Kun , Chen Fulin , Zhang Qin , Zhu Yuxian , Zheng Susan , Poss Kenneth D. , Tao Sheng-ce , Meng Xun
Published: March 2020

A massively parallel array of monoclonal antibodies enables rapid antibody development and target discovery across species.
Quaternary climate changes as speciation drivers in the Amazon floodplains
Authors: Thom Gregory , Xue Alexander T. , Sawakuchi André O. , Ribas Camila C. , Hickerson Michael J. , Aleixo Alexandre , Miyaki Cristina
Published: March 2020

Cyclical contractions and expansions of floodplain environments are linked to the evolution of Amazonian biodiversity.
Microbiome-derived carnitine mimics as previously unknown mediators of gut-brain axis communication
Authors: Hulme Heather , Meikle Lynsey M. , Strittmatter Nicole , van der Hooft Justin J. J. , Swales John , Bragg Ryan A. , Villar Victor H. , Ormsby Michael J. , Barnes Stephanie , Brown Sheila L. , Dexter Alex , Kamat Maya T. , Komen Jasper C. , Walker Daniel , Milling Simon , Osterweil Emily K. , MacDonald Andrew S. , Schofield Chris J. , Tardito Saverio , Bunch Josephine , Douce Gillian , Edgar Julia M. , Edrada-Ebel RuAngelie , Goodwin Richard J. A. , Burchmore Richard , Wall Daniel M.
Published: March 2020

Discovery of novel bacterial metabolites reveals an unprecedented role for the microbiome in gut-brain axis communication.
ECRG4 regulates neutrophil recruitment and CD44 expression during the inflammatory response to injury
Authors: Dorschner Robert A. , Lee Jisook , Cohen Olga , Costantini Todd , Baird Andrew , Eliceiri Brian P.
Published: March 2020

Leukocyte ECRG4 amplifies neutrophil recruitment and regulates CD44 expression to mediate inflammation in cutaneous injury.
A statistical inference approach to reconstruct intercellular interactions in cell migration experiments
Authors: Agliari Elena , Sáez Pablo J. , Barra Adriano , Piel Matthieu , Vargas Pablo , Castellana Michele
Published: March 2020

We propose a statistical inference approach designed to detect the presence of collective behavior in cell motility experiments.
Inverse control of Rab proteins by
Yersinia
ADP-ribosyltransferase and glycosyltransferase related to clostridial glucosylating toxins
Authors: Ost G. Stefan , Wirth Christophe , Bogdanović Xenia , Kao Wei-Chun , Schorch Björn , Aktories Philipp J. K. , Papatheodorou Panagiotis , Schwan Carsten , Schlosser Andreas , Jank Thomas , Hunte Carola , Aktories Klaus
Published: March 2020

Two
Yersinia
toxins activate or inactivate Rab proteins involved in vesicle traffic by ADP-ribosylation or glycosylation.
Tumor cell–organized fibronectin maintenance of a dormant breast cancer population
Authors: Barney Lauren E. , Hall Christopher L. , Schwartz Alyssa D. , Parks Akia N. , Sparages Christopher , Galarza Sualyneth , Platt Manu O. , Mercurio Arthur M. , Peyton Shelly R.
Published: March 2020

Barneyet al.used biomaterials to uncover a role for fibronectin in preventing breast cancer cell escape from dormancy.
Functional integration of “undead” neurons in the olfactory system
Authors: Prieto-Godino Lucia L. , Silbering Ana F. , Khallaf Mohammed A. , Cruchet Steeve , Bojkowska Karolina , Pradervand Sylvain , Hansson Bill S. , Knaden Markus , Benton Richard
Published: March 2020

Undead neurons may underlie the evolution of new olfactory circuits.
Targeting MYCN-expressing triple-negative breast cancer with BET and MEK inhibitors
Authors: Schafer Johanna M. , Lehmann Brian D. , Gonzalez-Ericsson Paula I. , Marshall Clayton B. , Beeler J. Scott , Redman Lindsay N. , Jin Hailing , Sanchez Violeta , Stubbs Matthew C. , Scherle Peggy , Johnson Kimberly N. , Sheng Quanhu , Roland Joseph T. , Bauer Joshua A. , Shyr Yu , Chakravarthy Bapsi , Mobley Bret C. , Hiebert Scott W. , Balko Justin M. , Sanders Melinda E. , Liu Phillip C. C. , Pietenpol Jennifer A.
Published: March 2020

This study demonstrates the potential utility of BET and MEK inhibitors for advanced MYCN-expressing triple-negative breast cancer.
“You are what you eat!”
Authors: Su Xinyi
Published: March 2020

Single-cell transcriptomic analysis reveals how caloric restriction prevents aging at the cellular level.
Biochemical Characterization of QPX7728, a New Ultrabroad-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase Inhibitor of Serine and Metallo-Beta-Lactamases
Authors: Tsivkovski Ruslan , Totrov Maxim , Lomovskaya Olga
Published: March 2020

QPX7728 is a new ultrabroad-spectrum inhibitor of serine and metallo-beta-lactamases (MBLs) from a class of cyclic boronates that gave rise to vaborbactam. The spectrum and mechanism of beta-lactamase inhibition by QPX7728 were assessed using purified enzymes from all molecular classes. QPX7728 inhibits class A extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) (50% inhibitory concentration [IC
50
] range, 1 to 3 nM) and carbapenemases such as KPC (IC
50
, 2.9 ± 0.
Characterization of
bla
CTX-M-27
/F1:A2:B20 Plasmids Harbored by Escherichia coli Sequence Type 131 Sublineage C1/
H
30R Isolates Spreading among Elderly Japanese in Nonacute-Care Settings
Authors: Matsuo Nao , Nonogaki Rina , Hayashi Michiko , Wachino Jun-ichi , Suzuki Masahiro , Arakawa Yoshichika , Kawamura Kumiko
Published: March 2020

We characterized 29
bla
CTX-M-27
-harboring plasmids of
Escherichia coli
sequence type 131 (ST131) sublineage C1/
H
30R isolates from healthy individuals and long-term-care facility (LTCF) residents. Most (27/29) plasmids were of the FIA, FIB, and FII multireplicon type with the same plasmid multilocus sequence typing (pMLST). Several plasmids (7/23) from LTCF residents harbored only
bla
CTX-M-27
as the resistance gene; however, their fundamental structures were very similar to those of previously isolated
bla
CTX-M-27
/F1:A2:B20 plasmids, suggesting their prevalence as a newly arising public health concern.
Horizontal Spread of Rhodococcus equi Macrolide Resistance Plasmid pRErm46 across Environmental
Actinobacteria
Authors: Álvarez-Narváez Sonsiray , Giguère Steeve , Berghaus Londa J. , Dailey Cody , Vázquez-Boland José A.
Published: March 2020

This study demonstrates the efficient horizontal transfer of the
Rhodococcus equi
conjugative plasmid pRErm46, recently identified as the cause of the emerging macrolide resistance among equine isolates of this pathogen, to and from different environmental
Actinobacteria
, including a variety of rhodococci as well as
Nocardia
and
Arthrobacter
spp. The reported data support the notion that environmental microbiotas may act as reservoirs for the endemic maintenance of antimicrobial resistance in an antibiotic pressurized farm habitat.
Coimmunization with Two Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) Fimbrial Multiepitope Fusion Antigens Induces the Production of Neutralizing Antibodies against Five ETEC Fimbriae (F4, F5, F6, F18, and F41)
Authors: Duan Qiangde , Wu Wenwen , Pang Shengmei , Pan Zhiming , Zhang Weiping , Zhu Guoqiang
Published: March 2020

EnterotoxigenicEscherichia coli(ETEC)-associated postweaning diarrhea (PWD) is still a leading disease in recently weaned piglets. Vaccination is considered to be the most ideal and efficacious strategy for preventing PWD. Recently, a commercialized live monovalent F4 oral vaccine and a bivalent F4/F18 oral vaccine have been demonstrated to effectively protect piglets in the F4-positive (F4+) and F18+ETEC challenge models. However, they will not provide cross-protection against F5+, F6+, or F41+ETEC-associated PWD cases, as they lack all five fimbria antigens. Thus, a multivalent vaccine containing all five ETEC fimbriae would be more effective in preventing ETEC-driven PWD. In this study, we designed two fimbria-targeted MEFAs using the MEFA technology, and further study demonstrated that these coadministered MEFAs in mice can induce protective antibodies against the five fimbriae expressed by ETEC. These MEFAs could be used as an efficient PWD vaccine candidate; furthermore, MEFA-based structural technology provides an alternative and promising strategy for the development of vaccines against pathogens with heterogeneous virulence factors.
Imported Malaria in Countries where Malaria Is Not Endemic: a Comparison of Semi-immune and Nonimmune Travelers
Authors: Mischlinger Johannes , Rönnberg Caroline , Álvarez-Martínez Míriam J. , Bühler Silja , Paul Małgorzata , Schlagenhauf Patricia , Petersen Eskild , Ramharter Michael
Published: March 2020

The continuous increase in long-distance travel and recent large migratory movements have changed the epidemiological characteristics of imported malaria in countries where malaria is not endemic (here termed non-malaria-endemic countries). While malaria was primarily imported to nonendemic countries by returning travelers, the proportion of immigrants from malaria-endemic regions and travelers visiting friends and relatives (VFRs) in malaria-endemic countries has continued to increase. VFRs and immigrants from malaria-endemic countries now make up the majority of malaria patients in many nonendemic countries.
Heterogeneous Nuclear Ribonucleoprotein L Negatively Regulates Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus Replication through Inhibition of Viral RNA Synthesis by Interacting with the Internal Ribosome Entry Site in the 5′ Untranslated Region
Authors: Sun Chao , Liu Mengmeng , Chang Jitao , Yang Decheng , Zhao Bo , Wang Haiwei , Zhou Guohui , Weng Changjiang , Yu Li
Published: March 2020

Picornaviruses, as a large family of human and animal pathogens, cause a bewildering array of disease syndromes. Many host factors are implicated in the pathogenesis of these viruses, and some proteins interact with the viral IRES elements to affect function. Here, we report for the first time that cellular hnRNP L specifically interacts with the IRES of the picornavirus FMDV and negatively regulates FMDV replication through inhibiting viral RNA synthesis. Further, our results showed that hnRNP L coimmunoprecipitates with FMDV 3D
pol
in a viral RNA-dependent manner, suggesting that it may remain in the replication complex to function. The data presented here would facilitate further understanding of virus-host interactions and the pathogenesis of picornavirus infections.
Complete Genome Sequence of a 2019 Novel Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) Strain Isolated in Nepal
Authors: Sah Ranjit , Rodriguez-Morales Alfonso J. , Jha Runa , Chu Daniel K. W. , Gu Haogao , Peiris Malik , Bastola Anup , Lal Bibek Kumar , Ojha Hemant Chanda , Rabaan Ali A. , Zambrano Lysien I. , Costello Anthony , Morita Kouichi , Pandey Basu Dev , Poon Leo L. M.
Published: March 2020

A complete genome sequence was obtained for a severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) strain isolated from an oropharyngeal swab specimen of a Nepalese patient with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), who had returned to Nepal after traveling to Wuhan, China.
Pulmonary hypertension and myocardial function in infants and children with Down syndrome
Authors: Smith Aisling Mary , Levy Philip T , Franklin Orla , Molloy Eleanor , EL-Khuffash Afif
Published: March 2020

Down Syndrome (DS) is the most common chromosomal abnormality of live born babies. Individuals with DS are at increased risk of cardiopulmonary morbidities in the early neonatal period, infancy and childhood that manifest with elevated pulmonary arterial pressures and altered myocardial performance. Pulmonary hypertension (PH) during the early neonatal period remains under-recognised in this population. PH may occur with or without a congenital heart defect in children with DS and is more common than in the general population. Early detection and continued screening of PH throughout infancy and childhood for these at-risk children is crucial for prompt intervention and potential prevention of long-term sequelae on cardiac function. This review summarises the main physiological concepts behind the mechanisms of PH in children with DS and provides a summary of the current available literature on PH and its impact on myocardial performance.
Barriers to dementia diagnosis and care in China
Authors: Quail Zara , Wei Angelina , Zhang Vicky Fan , Carter Mark McLean
Published: March 2020

In China, the ageing population and the prevalence of dementia are projected to escalate significantly by 2050 resulting in a substantial increase in health and economic burden on caregivers, healthcare facilities, healthcare providers and communities. There is no published national dementia policy or strategy in China. This case report describes significant barriers contributing to diagnostic problems and inadequate care of dementia through the case of an older female in rural China, whose condition deteriorated due to neuropsychiatric and functional symptoms of undiagnosed dementia. Intersectoral collaboration between care organisations facilitated delivery of a non-pharmacological intervention programme which was associated with improvements in the patient’s functional and neuropsychiatric symptoms. The case demonstrates that recruitment and training of a wider range of health and care professionals and caregivers in a systematic approach to non-pharmacological interventions could help overcome barriers to the specialised care needs of people with dementia where resources are lacking.