bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fusion imaging during balloon mitral valvulopasty: First experience
Authors: Hudson Olivia , Prejean Shane P. , Von Mering Gregory , Arora Garima , Ahmed Mustafa , Nanda Navin , Andrikopoulou Efstathia
Published: June 2020

The EchoNavigator (EchoNav, Philips, The Netherlands) is a tool that fuses live X‐ray with three‐dimensional (3D) transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) images allowing for enhanced precision and accuracy during interventional cardiac procedures. We present the first case of EchoNav utilization during balloon mitral valvuloplasty using the newest version (EchoNav 3.0.2). The benefits of the EchoNav application include improved procedural precision and safety due to improved demonstration of the relationship between the interventional equipment and neighboring cardiac structures.
Metaphors for social media‐enhanced foreign language teaching and learning
Authors: Reinhardt Jonathon
Published: June 2020

As L2 (foreign and second language) instructors and materials designers are faced with online and distance learning mandates, new perspectives on how to use familiar, everyday technologies that learners can access from home like social media are welcome. Imagining these new uses, however, may require going beyond the traditional computer‐assisted language learning (CALL) metaphors of computer‐as‐tutor or tool, which were established before social media. This article outlines four new metaphors that better capture the new user dynamics of social media: windows, mirrors, doorways, and playgrounds. After a discussion of the brief history of CALL metaphors, these new metaphors are presented with support from research alongside ideas for L2 teaching and learning.
Inhibition of Fenton reaction is a novel mechanism to explain the therapeutic effect of intra‐articular injection of PRP in patients with chronic haemophilic synovitis
Authors: Caviglia Horacio , Daffunchio Carla , Galatro Gustavo , Cambiaggi Guillermo , Oneto Paula , Douglas Price Ana Laura , Landro María Eulalia , Etulain Julia
Published: June 2020

Introduction and Aim

Haemarthroses cause major morbidity in haemophilia resulting in chronic haemophilic synovitis (CHS) and arthropathy. Oxidation of haemoglobin‐coupled iron released in synovium after haemolysis induces chondrocytes death and cartilage damage, allowing postulate using iron‐chelating drugs as potential therapeutic tool for haemophilic joint damage. Considering that albumin, the most abundant plasma protein, is a physiologic iron chelator, we aim to demonstrate that impediment of haemoglobin oxidation is exerted by plasma as a mechanism involved in the therapeutic effect of intra‐articular injection of platelet‐rich plasma in CHS.

Methods

Oxidation of haemoglobin (Hb) to methaemoglobin (MeHb) through Fenton reaction was induced in vitro by addition of potassium ferricyanide in the presence or absence of peripheral blood‐derived platelets‐rich or platelets‐poor plasma (PRP/PPP) or albumin. The relevance of in vitro findings was analysed in synovial fluid (SF) samples from one patient with CHS obtained before and after 6 months of PRP intra‐articular injection.

Results

MeHb formation was completely impaired either by of PPP, PRP or albumin indicating that PRP exerts an anti‐oxidative effect, probably due by plasma albumin. Analysis of SF samples revealed the presence of MeHb levels and haemosiderin‐laden macrophages in SF obtained before PRP treatment. Reduction of synovial MeHb, normalization of cellular composition and improvement of health joint haemophilic score, pain and bleeding episodes were registered after 6 months of PRP intra‐articular injection.

Conclusion

Inhibition of Fenton reaction and the consequent normalization of joint cellular composition is a noncanonical mechanism underlying the therapeutic effect of PRP intra‐articular injection in CHS.
Decolonising Design Education through Playful Learning in a Tertiary Communication Design Programme in South Africa
Authors: Cassim Fatima
Published: June 2020

This article introduces playful learning as part of the decolonising project at institutes of higher learning in South Africa with specific reference to the discipline of communication design. Not only does the article interrogate the content of design education, specifically design for development, but more specifically the way that design for social innovation is taught. The article begins with a contextualisation of the decolonisation debate both locally and internationally, which is followed by a brief historical overview of formal design education. Design education’s trajectory informs the contemporary conception of design as a form of rhetoric. Design and play are then interfaced theoretically, and pragmatically through a case study to explore how deeper learning was made possible by play in a curriculum‐based project. Ultimately, the article aims to highlight the value of playful learning in design higher education to nurture alternate modes of design thinking that favour localised practice, intersubjective relationships between designers and their stakeholders and the enabling of students’ self‐realisation through real world experience.
Clinical and genetic analysis in a Chinese cohort of children and adolescents with diabetes/persistent hyperglycemia
Authors: Ding Yu , Li Niu , Lou Dan , Zhang Qianwen , Chang Guoying , Li Juan , Li Xin , Li Qun , Huang Xiaodong , Wang Jian , Jiang Fan , Wang Xiumin
Published: June 2020

Aims/Introduction

To investigate the genetic etiology and evaluate the diagnostic application of next‐generation sequencing for diabetes/persistent hyperglycemia in children and adolescents.

Materials and Methods

Patients with diabetes/persistent hyperglycemia, presenting with at least one other clinical manifestation (other than diabetes) or with a family history of diabetes, were recruited. The clinical and laboratory characteristics of the patients were recorded. Next‐generation sequencing was carried out, and candidate variants were verified by Sanger sequencing. Variant pathogenicity was further evaluated according to the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics guidelines.

Results

This study included 101 potential probands, 36 of whom were identified as positive by genetic testing. A further 51.2 and 20.9% of variants were determined to be pathogenic or likely pathogenic, respectively. Variants associated with the disease were primarily identified in 21 genes and three regions of copy number variants. Among the 39 variants in 21 genes, 61.5% (24/39) were novel. The genetic diagnosis of 23 patients was confirmed based on genetic evidence and associated clinical manifestations. We reported GCK variants (21.7%, 5/23) as the most common etiology in our cohort. Different clinical manifestations were observed in one family with WFS1 variants.

Conclusions

Our findings support the use of next‐generation sequencing as a standard method in patients with diabetes/persistent hyperglycemia and provide insights into the etiologies of these conditions.
Engaging cultural humility diffractively
Authors: Crath Rory , Rangel J. Cristian
Published: June 2020

Background

Conventional models of cultural humility ‐ even those extending analysis beyond the dyad of healthcare provider‐patient to include concentric social influences such as families, communities and institutions that make clinical relationships possible ‐ aren't conceptually or methodologically calibrated to accommodate shifts occurring in contemporary biomedical cultures. More complex methodological frameworks are required that are attuned to how advances in biomedical, communications and information technologies are increasingly transforming the very cultural and material conditions of health care and its delivery structures, and thus how power manifests in clinical encounters.

Methods

In this paper, we offer a two‐pronged intervention in the cultural humility literature. At a first level of analysis, we suggest the need to broaden understandings of culture and associated workings of power to accommodate the effects of biomedicine's technologising turn. A second level of intervention invites experimentation to broaden the availability of methodological tools to analyse and assess the multidimensionality of technologies and their agentic effects in healthcare encounters.

Results

Drawing from new materialism theories, practices of care are approached “diffractively” as contingent and dynamic material‐discursive events. Our neo‐materialist framework for cultural humility expands analytical sight‐lines beyond hierarchical relationships and dichotomies privileging humans (practitioner and/or patient) as sole actants in the clinical exchange. Attended to are the ongoing dynamics of practices entangling big‐data driven knowledges and interventions, pharmacological technologies and material instruments and devices, diseases, and the bodies/subjectivities of health care providers and patients. We investigate the implications for clinical assessment if a cultural humility framework is methodologically attuned to the clinical encounter as a discontinuous, discursive‐material process producing multiple, contextually emergent data moments and objects for analysis.

Conclusion

Engaging evaluative inquiry diffractively allows for a different ethical practice of care, one that attends to the forms of patient and health provider accountability and responsibility emerging in the clinical encounter.
Full‐field strain of regenerated bone tissue in a femoral fracture model
Authors: KARALI A. , KAO A. P. , MEESON R. , ROLDO M. , BLUNN G. W. , TOZZI G.
Published: June 2020

The mechanical behaviour of regenerated bone tissue during fracture healing is key in determining its ability to withstand physiological loads. However, the strain distribution in the newly formed tissue and how this influences the way a fracture heals it is still unclear. X‐ray Computed Tomography (XCT) has been extensively used to assess the progress of mineralised tissues in regeneration and when combined with in situ mechanics and digital volume correlation (DVC) has been proven a powerful tool to understand the mechanical behaviour and full‐field three‐dimensional (3D) strain distribution in bone. The purpose of this study is therefore to use in situ XCT mechanics and DVC to investigate the strain distribution and load‐bearing capacity in a regenerating fracture in the diaphyseal bone, using a rodent femoral fracture model stabilised by external fixation. Rat femurs with 1 mm and 2 mm osteotomy gaps were tested under in situ XCT step‐wise compression in the apparent elastic region. High strain was present in the newly formed bone (εp1 and εp3 reaching 29 000 µε and –43 000 µε, respectively), with a wide variation and inhomogeneity of the 3D strain distribution in the regenerating tissues of the fracture gap, which is directly related to the presence of unmineralised tissue observed in histological images. The outcomes of this study will contribute in understanding natural regenerative ability of bone and its mechanical behaviour under loading.
Utilization of neurolysis in management of refractory head and neck cancer‐related pain in palliative patients: A retrospective review
Authors: Khawaja Shehryar Nasir , Scrivani Steven John
Published: June 2020

Background

Pain is a common symptom of head and neck cancers. In some instances, pain may not resolve with conventional modalities and become refractory. Chemical neurolysis is a technique that utilizes chemical neurolytic agents to temporarily denervate a targeted nerve and provide relief in pain‐related symptoms. The aim of this investigation was to determine the effectiveness, safety, and predictors of chemical neurolysis procedures for management of refractory head and neck cancer‐related pain.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of patients who underwent chemical neurolysis procedure in the regions of head and neck for management of head and neck cancer‐related pain was conducted between November 2017 and November 2018. All adult male and female patients who had undergone chemical neurolysis procedure in the head and neck region for management of refractory head and neck related pain, in Orofacial Pain Clinic, Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Center were included in the investigation.

Results

Among 33 participants enrolled, 72.7% of participants experienced 75% or greater relief in pain at the 1‐month follow‐up. However, 9.1% reported experiencing an adverse effect following neurolysis. A statistically significant association was found between neurolysis effectiveness and chronicity of pain.

Conclusions

Chemical neurolysis can provide significant relief to patients with refractory head and neck cancer‐related pain as an adjunctive therapy. However, it was found to be associated with mild risk of manageable adverse effects. Shorter chronicity of pain was found to be associated with successful outcome.
Group pain education is as effective as individual education in patients with chronic temporomandibular disorders
Authors: Gokhale Amrita , Yap Tami , Heaphy Nicole , McCullough Michael John
Published: June 2020

Background

Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are recognised as the most common chronic orofacial pain condition, with prevalence figures ranging from 3% to 12%. Patients referred to tertiary orofacial pain clinics for the management of TMD often experience delays in receiving treatment. The objective of the present study was to assess a group treatment programme to deliver effective earlier intervention for patients with chronic TMD.

Methods

Forty‐two patients with TMD seen at the Oral Medicine Clinic, Royal Dental Hospital of Melbourne, were administered baseline validated pain questionnaires: the Graded Chronic Pain Scale and Pain Catastrophising Scale. Twenty patients subsequently received education about basic neurophysiology of pain, TMD and relaxation techniques in either a group setting or in a one‐on‐one session and were followed longitudinally. Administration of pain questionnaires was repeated at 4‐6 weeks post‐intervention.

Results

No evidence of difference in levels of anxiety, somatic symptoms or catastrophising was found between patients who received either group or individual intervention. Both were effective at reducing pain intensity and levels of disability. Individual intervention resulted in a greater reduction in rumination.

Conclusion

Patients with TMD can receive effective reduction of TMD‐related pain and catastrophising from either group or individual education regarding neurophysiology of pain, TMD and relaxation techniques. Group education should accelerate time to commencement of care in large referral‐based settings.
The effect of multisensory illusions on pain and perceived burning sensations in patients with Burning Mouth Syndrome: A proof‐of‐concept study
Authors: Phoon Nguyen Amanda H. , Balasubramaniam Ramesh , Bellan Valeria , Newport Roger N. , Stanton Tasha R.
Published: June 2020

Background

Burning mouth syndrome (BMS) is a chronic pain disorder affecting the oral cavity. Previous work has shown promising analgesic results of bodily illusions in other chronic pain conditions. The aim of this proof‐of‐concept, pilot study was to investigate whether bodily illusions reduce pain in BMS patients.

Methods

Nine participants diagnosed with BMS underwent bodily illusions using a MIRAGE‐mediated reality system. All participants completed four conditions and performed standardised movements of the tongue. First, a baseline condition was performed while the tongue was viewed at normal size and colour. Then, three conditions were performed in random order: resizing shrink, colour‐based (blue tongue) and incongruent movement illusions. During each condition, participants rated overall pain intensity and the intensity of burning pain/sensation on the tongue.

Results

There was no difference in overall pain intensity ratings between conditions. However, a significant effect of condition was found for burning pain/sensation of the tongue. The colour illusion significantly reduced burning pain compared with baseline (MD = −12.8, 95% CI −20.7 to −4.8), corresponding to an average pain reduction of 32%. Exploratory analyses showed the colour illusion also significantly reduced pain compared with the shrink illusion (MD = −11.7, 95% CI −22.2 to −1.1).

Conclusion

Using visual illusions to change tongue colour to blue resulted in significant reductions in burning pain/sensations in BMS patients for the duration of the illusion. This proof‐of‐concept study suggests that BMS patients may benefit from bodily illusions, and supports additional research using larger samples and more comprehensive control conditions.
(Pre)Modern sleep. New evidence from the Antwerp criminal court (1715–1795)
Authors: Verhoeven Gerrit
Published: June 2020

Lately, experts have turned to historical evidence to uncover the default mode of our sleep pattern. Even though there are some notable exceptions, most historians use a qualitative methodology based on scattered evidence in diaries, letters, novels, medical treatise and other literary sources. To provide fresh perspective in the debate, the present article develops a more quantitative approach. Drawing fresh evidence from early modern criminal records – viz the eyewitness reports of the Hoge Vierschaer or the local criminal court in Antwerp – we are able to debunk some classic stereotypes about premodern sleep patterns. Data reveal that most 18th‐century Antwerpers slept fewer hours than we would expect, slumbered in a monophasic way and rarely if ever took a nap during the day. Moreover, the start and end of sleep were less attuned to the solar cycle than we would imagine. Last but not least, the pattern also shows some fascinating weekly and seasonal variations.
shRNA knockdown of integrin‐linked kinase on hPDLCs migration, proliferation, and apoptosis under cyclic tensile stress
Authors: Wang Yijie , Du Chanyuan , Wan Wanting , He Chuan , Wu Shiyang , Wang Tairan , Wang Fei , Zou Rui
Published: June 2020

Objective

To investigate the roles of integrin‐linked kinase (ILK) in mediating the cell migration, proliferation, and apoptosis of human periodontal ligament cells (hPDLCs) in response to cyclic tensile stress.

Methods

Primary hPDLCs were obtained through the enzyme digestion and tissue culture method. Short hairpin ILK‐expressing hPDLCs were constructed using a recombinant lentiviral vector that specifically targeted ILK gene expression. The silencing of the ILK gene was identified by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) and Western blot. The hPDLCs were seeded on a flexible substrate and loaded with cyclic tensile stress at 0.5 Hz for 0, 2, 4, and 8 hr, consecutively, with the Flexcell Tension System. The response of cell migration was tested by the scratch assay. Cell proliferation was characterized by optical density (OD) value of cell counting kit‐8 (CCK‐8) test and Ki67 mRNA expression of qRT‐PCR. Cell apoptosis was determined by flow cytometry and Caspase‐3 mRNA expression of qRT‐PCR.

Results

Knocking down ILK substantially reduces migration and proliferation as well as regulates the sensitivity of hPDLCs to apoptosis under cyclic tensile stress.

Conclusions

ILK can promote the proliferation and migration as well as inhibit apoptosis of hPDLCs under cyclic tensile stress.
Altered pain modulation to noxious heat thermal stimuli in burning mouth syndrome
Authors: Nishihara Chisa , Watanabe Kosuke , Ozasa Kana , Khan Junad , Eliav Eli , Imamura Yoshiki , Noma Noboru
Published: June 2020

Objectives

The aim of this study was to examine temporal summation (TS) and conditioned pain modulation (CPM) in patients with burning mouth syndrome (BMS) and healthy controls using intra‐epidermal electrical stimulation (IES).

Materials and Methods

Twenty‐six female patients with BMS and 27 healthy female controls participated in this study. A single stimulus with electrical stimulation followed by a train of 10 successive stimuli was administered to the right chin of participants in both the BMS and control groups. CPM was evaluated with the changes of TS calculated from the difference in numerical pain scale data between these two test stimuli and the following warm (40°C) and hot (47°C) conditioning stimuli applied at the non‐dominant hand in both the BMS and control groups. Results: TS was present in both the BMS and control groups. CPM in the BMS group was significantly less efficient at the 47°C condition than that in the control group, while no significant difference was observed in the CPM between the BMS and the control groups at the 40°C condition.

Conclusion

These findings indicate that BMS is associated with a deficit inhibitory CPM and implicate the involvement of the central nervous system in the pathophysiology of BMS.
Can we understand human brain development from experimental studies in rodents?
Authors: Luhmann Heiko J. , Fukuda Atsuo
Published: June 2020

Animal models are needed to gain an understanding of the genetic, molecular, cellular, and network mechanisms of human brain development. In rodents, a large spectrum of in vitro and in vivo approaches allows detailed analyses and specific experimental manipulations for studying the sequence of developmental steps in corticogenesis. Neurogenesis, neuronal migration, cellular differentiation, programmed cell death, synaptogenesis, and myelination are surprisingly similar in the rodent cortex and the human cortex. Spontaneous EEG activity in the pre‐ and early postnatal human cortex resembles the activity patterns recorded with intracortical multi‐electrode arrays in newborn rodents. This early activity is generated by thalamic activation of a subplate‐driven local network coupled via gap junctions, which controls the development of cortical columns and the spatio‐temporal pattern of apoptosis. Disturbances of this activity may induce disturbances in cortical structure and function leading to neurological and psychiatric disorders.
A fast and reliable method for detecting SNP rs67384697 (Hsa‐miR‐148a binding site) by a single run of allele‐specific real‐time PCR
Authors: Malnati Mauro S. , Biswas Priscilla , Ugolotti Elisabetta , Di Marco Eddi , Sironi Francesca , Parolini Francesca , Garbarino Lucia , Mazzocco Michela , Zipeto Donato , Biassoni Roberto
Published: June 2020

Surface expression of human leukocyte antigen (HLA)‐class I molecules is critical for modulating T/natural killer lymphocytes' effector functions. Among HLA molecules, HLA‐C, the most recently evolved form of class I antigens, is subjected to both transcriptional and multiple post‐transcriptional regulation mechanisms affecting its cell surface expression. Among the latter a region placed in the 3′ untranslated region of HLA‐C transcript contains the single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs67384697 “G‐ins/del” that has been found to be strictly associated with surface levels of HLA‐C allomorphs because of the effect on the binding site of a microRNA (Hsa‐miR‐148a). Higher expression of HLA‐C has been proved to influence HIV‐1 infection via a better control of viremia and a slower disease progression. More importantly, the analysis of SNP rs67384697 “G‐ins/del” combined with the evaluation of the HLA‐Bw4/‐Bw6 C1/C2 supratype, as well as the killer immunoglobulin‐like receptor genetic asset, has proved to be pivotal in defining the status of Elite Controllers in the Caucasian population. Here we describe a new reliable and fast method of allele‐specific real‐time PCR to monitor the integrity/disruption of the binding site of the microRNA Hsa‐miR‐148a in a high‐throughput format that can be easily applied to studies involving large cohorts of individuals.
Monoclonal secondary reagents do not outperform polyclonal secondary reagents for detection of anti‐HLA IgG using single antigen flow beads assays
Authors: Bonnet Marie , Visentin Jonathan , Caillat‐Zucman Sophie , Jollet Isabelle , Taupin Jean‐Luc
Published: June 2020

Luminex single antigen flow beads (SAFB) assays are used to monitor anti‐HLA antibodies, which are associated with allograft loss. The primary antibody binding level is evaluated by the mean fluorescence intensity (MFI) provided by the tracing secondary antibody. The aim of this study was to compare the MFI obtained with two secondary antibodies and to evaluate their sensitivity to detect newly developed de novo anti‐HLA donor‐specific antibodies (dnDSA). A total of 23 and 46 different sera from 20 HLA‐sensitized kidney transplant recipients were tested with class I and II SAFB, respectively, as well as sera from 17 patients with dnDSA. The conventional secondary antibody (IgHPolyFab) was the phycoerythrin (PE)‐conjugated goat anti‐human IgG constant heavy chain (HC)‐binding polyclonal‐F(ab')2. The alternate secondary antibody was a PE‐conjugated anti‐human IgG Fc‐specific monoclonal IgG (FcMonoIgG). MFI of negative control sera were drastically lower with the FcMonoIgG than with IgHPolyFab, requesting a unique positivity threshold to be defined for each secondary antibody. MFI obtained with positive control sera were also lower with FcMonoIgG. In kidney transplant recipient's sera, the number of antigenic specificities detected by each secondary antibody was comparable, for dnDSA as well as for nonDSA. In conclusion, decision thresholds must be refined when changing the secondary tracing reagent in SAFB assays. FcMonoIgG did not demonstrate any superiority over IgHPolyFab for monitoring HLA antibodies.
Relational Cities Disrupted: Reflections on the Particular Geographies of COVID‐19 For Small But Global Urbanisation in Dublin, Ireland, and Luxembourg City, Luxembourg
Authors: Hesse Markus , Rafferty Michael
Published: June 2020

This paper looks at the particular geographies associated with the COVID‐19 outbreak through the lens of cities that are products of relational urbanisation. This includes small but highly globalised cities, such as financial centres or hot spots of politics and diplomacy, which are usually situated between different political, economic or cultural systems and their boundaries. These cities experienced strong growth due to internationalisation and a dedicated politics of extraversion. Our argument is that such places are unusually affected by the current lock‐down, illustrated by two empirical cases, the cities of Dublin, Ireland, and Luxembourg City, Luxembourg. Both have experienced striking growth rates recently, but now suffer from disruption. Their development trajectories remain unclear, since a return to the ‘old normal’ seems unlikely, and the emergent ‘new normal’ calls for adaptation towards more state involvement in areas hitherto governed by the market. The paper addresses possible alternative geographies for both cases.
Affordable and robust phenotyping framework to analyse root system architecture of soil‐grown plants
Authors: Bontpart Thibaut , Concha Cristobal , Giuffrida Mario Valerio , Robertson Ingrid , Admkie Kassahun , Degefu Tulu , Girma Nigusie , Tesfaye Kassahun , Haileselassie Teklehaimanot , Fikre Asnake , Fetene Masresha , Tsaftaris Sotirios A. , Doerner Peter
Published: June 2020

The phenotypic analysis of root system growth is important to inform efforts to enhance plant resource acquisition from soils; however, root phenotyping remains challenging because of the opacity of soil, requiring systems that facilitate root system visibility and image acquisition. Previously reported systems require costly or bespoke materials not available in most countries, where breeders need tools to select varieties best adapted to local soils and field conditions. Here, we report an affordable soil‐based growth (rhizobox) and imaging system to phenotype root development in glasshouses or shelters. All components of the system are made from locally available commodity components, facilitating the adoption of this affordable technology in low‐income countries. The rhizobox is large enough (approximately 6000 cm2 of visible soil) to avoid restricting vertical root system growth for most if not all of the life cycle, yet light enough (approximately 21 kg when filled with soil) for routine handling. Support structures and an imaging station, with five cameras covering the whole soil surface, complement the rhizoboxes. Images are acquired via the Phenotiki sensor interface, collected, stitched and analysed. Root system architecture (RSA) parameters are quantified without intervention. The RSAs of a dicot species (Cicer arietinum, chickpea) and a monocot species (Hordeum vulgare, barley), exhibiting contrasting root systems, were analysed. Insights into root system dynamics during vegetative and reproductive stages of the chickpea life cycle were obtained. This affordable system is relevant for efforts in Ethiopia and other low‐ and middle‐income countries to enhance crop yields and climate resilience sustainably.
Thermo-Hydraulic Performance of a Lubricant Containing Zinc Oxide Nano-Particles: A Two-Phase oil
Authors: Li Zhixiong , D’Orazio Annunziata , Karimipour Arash , Bach Quang-Vu
Published: June 2020

The first goal is to propose a two-variable equation for predicting the viscosity of zinc oxide-SAE50 nano-lubricant. In this way, the curve fitting was applied on laboratory data. Laboratory data have been reported in the temperatures ranging from 25 to 50 °C of and the nano-particles concentrations ranging from 0.125% to 1.5% previously. The presence of nano-particles leads to intensify the pressure descent and heat transfer, simultaneously. Therefore, the second goal was to evaluate the influence of nano-particles on the pressure descent and heat transfer. To achieve this goal, using existing relationships, heat transfer and pressure drop were estimated using nano-lubricant properties. Findings showed that the pressure drop ratio and coefficient of heat transfer augmented with an increase in ZnO concentration. Furthermore, calculations revealed that thermal performance factor enhances with increasing temperature and had a maximum value at volume concentration of 1%. It means that volume concentration of 1% is an optimal point in the preparation of this nano-lubricant.
Performance Evaluation of Degradable Temporary Plugging Agent in Laboratory Experiment
Authors: Liu Shun , Guo Tiankui , Rui Zhenhua , Ling Kegang
Published: June 2020

Temporary plugging fracturing is an effective way to enhance the fracture complexity and increase the stimulated reservoir volume (SRV) of unconventional reservoirs. The performance of temporary plugging agents (TPA) directly affects the success rate of temporary plugging. Currently, laboratory evaluation of the plugging effects of the TPA is rarely reported, and there are no industrial standards on laboratory evaluation of TPA plugging. In this study, two new experimental methods were used to evaluate a novel particulate TPA. The plugging performance of the TPA to the core end face and the propped fractures was measured through displacement experiments of cores, and the applicability of its basic performance to the temporary plugging fracturing was verified. Furthermore, the large-scale true triaxial simulation experiment of temporary plugging fracturing was carried out to confirm the influence mechanism of different factors on fracture propagation during temporary plugging. Finally, the influence rule of different types of combinations of TPA and placement patterns on the plugging was obtained based on laboratory evaluation of the conductivity. The results show that the novel TPA causes effective temporary plugging on the core end face and the propped fractures and has the strong plugging performance, and the TPA solubility in the carrying fluids decreases with the increase in the TPA concentration. The basic performance of the TPA meets the requirements of temporary plugging fracturing. If the proppants and 20% fibers are placed within the fracture in the mixed pattern, the fracture is initiated along the direction of the horizontal maximum principal stress. The preset fracture reduces the fracture initiation pressure. The fracture complexity is closely related to the placement pattern of TPA and proppants. If the preset fractures are filled by the uniform mixture or the plug of the 20/40 mesh or 20/80 mesh particulate TPA (4%), fibers (1%), and proppants, the fracture initiation pressure significantly increases, and the complex fractures are formed after fracturing. Effective plugging cannot be formed only by mixing the fibers with the proppants, and the uniform mixture of the proppants and 4% particulate TPA and the 6% particulate TPA at the front end of the fracture form a temporary plugging belt, achieving effective plugging. The fibers improve the conductivity under the low closure stress, and it has a certain effect of temporary plugging under the closure stress above 30 MPa. The research results provide the design consideration for creating the complex fracture by temporary plugging.
Turbulent Flows Inside Pipes Equipped With Novel Perforated V-Shaped Rectangular Winglet Turbulators: Numerical Simulations
Authors: Erfanian Nakhchi M. , Rahmati M. T.
Published: June 2020

In this study, computational simulations have been performed to investigate the turbulent characteristics and energy consumption through heat exchanger tubes equipped by new perforated V-shaped rectangular winglet (PVRW) turbulators. The effects of the holes intensity on the velocity and temperature contours are additionally investigated. The Reynolds number, hole diameter ratio, and the number of holes selected are in the range of 5000 ≤ Re ≤ 18,000, 0 ≤ DR ≤ 0.40, and 0 ≤ N ≤ 14, respectively. Renormalization group (RNG) k–ε turbulent model which is a finite volume solver is utilized for the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation. It was noticed that the proposed perforated turbulators could considerably intensify the thermal performance compared to typical VRW inserts. It is found that the recirculating flow generated by the PVRW augments the fluid mixing and transfers the heat from the pipe walls to the core of the tube. The simulations illustrate that the amount of heat transfer enhances 25.2% reducing the DR from 0.4 to 0.13 at Re = 18,000 and N = 14. Also, using PVRW turbulators with N = 7 and DR = 0.26 augments the average Nusselt number around 354.3% compared to the circular pipe without inserts. The highest thermal efficiency parameter of η = 2.25 could be obtained at Re = 5000 for the heat exchangers fitted by vortex generators with N = 14 and DR = 0.26.
Bridging the Gap: Science and Technology Policy in the (Bio)Engineering Classroom
Authors: Kuxhaus Laurel , Michalek Arthur J. , Martin Stephen M. , Steinbacher Jeremy L.
Published: June 2020

Engineers and scientists have a key role to play in the creation and implementation of government policy. Policymakers need access to the technical expertise that is critical to our national progress and security; however, this need is often overlooked by engineering students, faculty, and professionals. Even though a substantial fraction of scientists and engineers end up pursuing jobs in government, engineering curricula do not usually provide any background in policy and for many, the policy-making process remains a black box. The good news is that there are some simple ways to make it more accessible and to encourage increased involvement. In this paper, we provide a brief overview of the federal policy-making process and present a collection of classroom learning activities that link policy-making and implementation to science and engineering. These can easily be added to existing courses without wholesale curricular changes. We also suggest professional development activities for engineers at all stages of their careers and discuss ways for engineers to become involved in the policy process. Introducing learning and career development activities focused on science and engineering policy will better prepare engineers to provide needed technical expertise to policymakers. It may also encourage engineers to consider careers in local, state, and federal government.
Applicability of Common RANS Models for the Calculation of Transient Forced to Natural Convection
Authors: Fradeneck Austen D. , Kimber Mark L.
Published: June 2020

The applicability of several Reynolds averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) turbulence models in calculating the transient evolution of a buoyancy-induced flow reversal along a vertical heated plate is analyzed through the use of validation quality experimental data from the Rotatable Buoyancy Tunnel (RoBuT) facility. This benchmark attempts to capture the transient evolution from downward forced convection to upward natural convection by removing power to the blower and allowing the buoyancy force emanating from the heated plate to gradually dominate as the primary driving force. Boundary conditions and system response quantities for the numerical model are supplied from the experiment every 0.2 s during the 18.2 s transient. ASME standards are used to quantify the numerical uncertainties while the input uncertainties are handled using a Latin hypercube sampling (LHS) method based on the steady-state conditions (t=0 s). Qualitative comparisons between numerical and experimental results at several downstream locations are supported using a validation metric based on the statistical disparity between the respective empirical and cumulative distribution functions (CDFs). The results from this study show that the standard linear eddy-viscosity models have difficulty in reproducing the complex features of the flow reversal in comparison with the more intricate turbulence models such as Reynolds stress models (RSM) and low-Reynolds number variants. This study also briefly highlights the difficulties of capturing validation quality data for three-dimensional multiphysics flow, while also providing insight for the design of future experimental efforts.
Design of a Variable Stiffness Pneumatic Ankle Prosthesis With Self-Recharging for Weightlifting Exercise
Authors: Mrazsko Hannah X. , Dekarske Jason T. , Adamczyk Peter G.
Published: June 2020

With advances in prosthetic technology, functional intent has extended past basic support toward providing increased dynamic ability for daily and athletic use. Addressing a disparity between universality and complexity in sport-grade and energy-storage-and-return (ESR) prostheses, this paper presents a pneumatic transtibial ankle prosthesis concept with semi-active control of ankle stiffness to adjust the prosthesis' properties for a wider range of gym exercises. Functional validation of the device falls under specific scenarios including the parallel back squat weightlifting exercise. The prosthesis features 30 deg sagittal ankle range of motion and provides wireless adjustment of static air pressure via a smartphone app to transition between the force and stiffness demands of walking and weightlifting. This pneumatic system includes a self-replenishing feature, providing a practical solution for the variable air pressure demands of athletics and everyday use. The mechanical, pneumatic, and control systems of the prosthesis are therefore described. Biomechanical tests including the back squat were conducted with one transtibial amputee subject. The resultant kinematic analysis validated the functional goals of the device, including an increased range of ankle rotation and variable stiffness across three different cylinder pressure settings. The kinetic profiles of the amputated leg and the natural leg also reveal an improvement in bilateral symmetry compared to a standard ESR prosthesis. This prosthesis concept has the potential to help persons with amputation participate in a wider range of activities, by improving the versatility of current ESR and sport prostheses.
Localized and Distributed Energy in Wave–Current Flow
Authors: Singh Santosh Kumar , Khait Anatoliy , Raushan Pankaj Kumar , Debnath Koustuv
Published: June 2020

Evaluation of localized and distributed in time spectral energy in wave–current coexisting environment is investigated in this study. In order to understand the inherent characteristics of the flow under consideration, the Hilbert-Huang transform (HHT) is introduced to determine the instantaneous frequency corresponding to the maximum energy carrying by the velocity field. This frequency is associated with the timescale of the most energetic velocity fluctuations. The intrinsic mean frequency of the intrinsic mode function (IMF) is reduced with the increase in the IMF number. It was shown that the maximum energy is concentrated close to the center of the IMF series. The spectral characteristics obtained by the HHT are carefully compared with those obtained by more conventional Fourier and wavelet transform (FFT and WT, respectively). Addition of the surface wave component to the velocity field of the current-only case leads to the extension of the frequency range containing the dominant portion of the energy.
GABAergic interneurons excite neonatal hippocampus in vivo
Authors: Murata Yasunobu , Colonnese Matthew T.
Published: June 2020

During development, the brain’s “inhibitory” neurons act in a diverse manner, exciting hippocampus but inhibiting sensory cortex.
Developmental biology of
Helicoforamina
reveals holozoan affinity, cryptic diversity, and adaptation to heterogeneous environments in the early Ediacaran Weng’an biota (Doushantuo Formation, South China)
Authors: Yin Zongjun , Sun Weichen , Liu Pengju , Zhu Maoyan , Donoghue Philip C. J.
Published: June 2020

Holozoan fossils indicate the high diversity of the Ediacaran Weng’an biota and its adaptation to harsh environments.
Abrupt decline in tropospheric nitrogen dioxide over China after the outbreak of COVID-19
Authors: Liu Fei , Page Aaron , Strode Sarah A. , Yoshida Yasuko , Choi Sungyeon , Zheng Bo , Lamsal Lok N. , Li Can , Krotkov Nickolay A. , Eskes Henk , van der A Ronald , Veefkind Pepijn , Levelt Pieternel F. , Hauser Oliver P. , Joiner Joanna
Published: June 2020

Chinese COVID-19 policies indirectly lead to reduced fuel use and reduction in environmental emissions.
Single-cell transcriptomic analysis of allergen-specific T cells in allergy and asthma
Authors: Seumois Grégory , Ramírez-Suástegui Ciro , Schmiedel Benjamin J. , Liang Shu , Peters Bjoern , Sette Alessandro , Vijayanand Pandurangan
Published: June 2020

Single-cell transcriptomic analysis of allergen-specific T cells in allergy and asthma reveals new T cell subsets.
Pituitary metastasis of prostate cancer presenting as a unilateral third nerve palsy
Authors: Ahmad Sajjad , Smeeton Fiona , Hayhurst Caroline , Lansdown Andrew
Published: June 2020

A 60-year-old man presented with right third nerve palsy and headaches. Neuroimaging showed a pituitary lesion. There was evidence of rapid enlargement on interval scans, invasion of the cavernous sinus and displacement of the pituitary stalk. He subsequently developed anterior hypopituitarism. CT thorax, abdomen and pelvis did not show any evidence of malignancy. This was thought to be an aggressive pituitary macroadenoma but histology post-trans-sphenoidal surgery surprisingly showed metastasis from an undiagnosed prostate primary. His prostate specific antigen was raised and MRI pelvis confirmed locally advanced prostate cancer.
Rechallenge patients with immune checkpoint inhibitors following severe immune-related adverse events: review of the literature and suggested prophylactic strategy
Authors: Haanen John , Ernstoff Marc , Wang Yinghong , Menzies Alexander , Puzanov Igor , Grivas Petros , Larkin James , Peters Solange , Thompson John , Obeid Michel
Published: June 2020

Patients with cancer who developed severe, grade 3 or 4 immune-related adverse events (irAEs) during therapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors are at risk for developing severe toxicities again on rechallenge with checkpoint inhibitors. Consequently, medical oncologists and multidisciplinary teams are hesitant to retreat in this scenario, despite the fact that a number of patients may derive clinical benefit from this approach. Balancing such clinical benefit and treatment-related toxicities for each patient is becoming increasingly challenging as more and more patients with cancer are being treated with checkpoint inhibitors. In this manuscript, we provide an extensive overview of the relevant literature on retreatment after toxicity, and suggest prophylactic approaches to minimize the risk of severe irAE following rechallenge with immune checkpoint blockade, since treatment may be lifesaving in a number of occasions.
Overcoming barriers to recruitment and retention of African–American women with SLE in behavioural interventions: lessons learnt from the WELL study
Authors: Drenkard Cristina , Easley Kirk , Bao Gaobin , Dunlop-Thomas Charmayne , Lim S Sam , Brady Teresa
Published: June 2020

Background

African–Americans are historically under-represented in SLE studies and engaging them in behavioural interventions is challenging. The Women Empowered to Live with Lupus (WELL) study is a trial conducted to examine the effectiveness of the Chronic Disease Self-Management Program (CDSMP) among African–American women with SLE. We describe enrolment and retention challenges and successful strategies of the WELL study.

Methods

The Georgians Organized Against Lupus (GOAL) cohort, a population-based cohort established in Atlanta, Georgia, was used to enrol a sample of 168 African–American women with SLE into the CDSMP. The CDSMP is a 6-week, group-based programme led by peers to enhance self-management skills in people with chronic conditions. Study performance standards were predefined and close monitoring of recruitment and retention progress was conducted by culturally competent staff members. Continuous contact with participants, research coordinators’ notes and regular research team meetings served to assess barriers and define strategies needed to meet the desired recruitment and retention outcomes.

Results

While no substantial barriers were identified to enrol GOAL participants into the WELL study, WELL participants faced difficulties registering for and/or completing (attending ≥4 sessions) a CDSMP workshop. Major barriers were unpredicted personal and health-related issues, misunderstanding of the scope and benefits of the intervention, and transportation problems. Early implementation of tailored strategies (eg, CDSMP scheduled on Saturdays, CDSMP delivered at convenient/familiar facilities, transportation services) helped to reduce participant barriers and achieve a CDSMP registration of 168 participants, with 126 (75%) completers. Frequent contact with participants and compensation helped to reach 92.3% retention for the 6-month survey.

Conclusions

Predefined standards and monitoring of participant barriers by a culturally competent research team and proactive solutions were critical to implementing successful strategies and achieving the desired recruitment and retention outcomes of a behavioural trial involving African–American women with SLE.

Trial registration number

NCT02988661.
Listeria monocytogenes meningoencephalomyelitis most likely due to septic spread as a rare cause of neurological disease and fever in an adult horse
Authors: Hirz Manuela , Prenger‐Berninghoff Ellen , Förster Christine , Fey Kerstin , Herden Christiane
Published: June 2020

A 14‐year‐old warmblood mare developed progressive neurological signs including ataxia, nystagmus, impaired mental status as well as decreased cranial nerve reflexes, and finally went recumbent. Postmortem examination and histology revealed severe chronic active multifocal suppurative meningoencephalomyelitis with multifocal fibrinoid degeneration and necrosis of the vessel walls, multiple microabscesses and pyogranulomas. Additionally, there was mild multifocal necrotising to pyogranulomatous hepatitis and moderate multifocal suppurative to pyogranulomatous interstitial nephritis with fibrinoid degeneration of the vessel walls. Routine diagnostic procedures did not reveal any viral or bacterial aetiology; however, listerial enrichment with subsequent matrix assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOF MS) analysis and 16S rRNA sequencing confirmed infection with Listeria monocytogenes. Listeriosis is uncommonly reported as a cause of sepsis in foals and rarely in adult horses. Furthermore it is rarely reported causing meningoencephalitis in foals as well as in adult horses. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first case of meningoencephalomyelitis most likely due to septic distribution in an adult horse.