bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Administration of mircoRNA‐135b‐reinforced exosomes derived from MSCs ameliorates glucocorticoid‐induced osteonecrosis of femoral head (ONFH) in rats
Authors: Zhang Xiang , You Jiong‐ming , Dong Xiao‐jun , Wu Yang
Published: October 2020

Exosomes were found to exert a therapeutic effect in the treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH), while miR‐135b was shown to play an important role in the development of ONFH. In this study, we investigated the effects of concomitant administration of exosomes and miR‐135b on the treatment of ONFH. A rat mode of ONFH was established. TEM, Western blotting and nanoparticle analysis were used to characterize the exosomes collected from human‐induced pluripotent stem cell–derived mesenchymal stem cells (hiPS‐MSC‐Exos). Micro‐CT was used to observe the trabecular bone structure of the femoral head. Real‐time PCR, Western blot analysis, IHC assay, TUNEL assay, MTT assay and flow cytometry were performed to detect the effect of hiPS‐MSC‐Exos and miR‐135b on cell apoptosis and the expression of PDCD4/caspase‐3/OCN. Moreover, computational analysis and luciferase assay were conducted to identify the regulatory relationship between PDCD4 mRNA and miR‐135b. The hiPS‐MSC‐Exos collected in this study displayed a spheroidal morphology with sizes ranging from 20 to 100 nm and a mean concentration of 1 × 1012 particles/mL. During the treatment of ONFH, the administration of hiPS‐MSC‐Exos and miR‐135b alleviated the magnitude of bone loss. Furthermore, the treatment of MG‐63 and U‐2 cells with hiPS‐MSC‐Exos and miR‐135b could promote cell proliferation and inhibit cell apoptosis. Moreover, PDCD4 mRNA was identified as a virtual target gene of miR‐135b. HiPS‐MSC‐Exos exerted positive effects during the treatment of ONFH, and the administration of miR‐135b could reinforce the effect of hiPS‐MSC‐Exos by inhibiting the expression of PDCD4.
‘I have been all in, I have been all out and I have been everything in‐between’: A 2‐year longitudinal qualitative study of weight loss maintenance
Authors: Thom G. , Lean M. E. J. , Brosnahan N. , Algindan Y. Y. , Malkova D. , Dombrowski S. U.
Published: October 2020

Background

Qualitative studies investigating weight management experiences are usually cross‐sectional or of short duration, which limits understanding of the long‐term challenges.

Methods

Eleven women [mean (SD) age 44.9 (9.8) years; body mass index 40.3 (4.0) kg m−2] participated in this longitudinal qualitative study, which included up to 20 weeks of total diet replacement (825–853 kcal day−1) and ongoing support for weight loss maintenance (WLM), to 2 years. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted at baseline and programme end, as well as at key intervals during the intervention. Questions examined five theoretical themes: motivation, self‐regulation, habits, psychological resources and social/environmental influences. Data were coded and analysed in nvivo (https://qsrinternational.com/nvivo) using the framework method.

Results

In total, 64 interviews were completed (median, n = 6 per participant). Mean (SD) weight loss was 15.7 (9.6) kg (14.6% body weight) at 6 months and 9.6 (9.9) kg (8.8% body weight) at 2 years. The prespecified theoretical model offered a useful framework to capture the variability of experiences. Negative aspects of obesity were strong motivations for weight loss and maintenance. Perceiving new routines as sustainable and developing a ‘maintenance mindset’ was characteristic of ‘Maintainers’, whereas meeting emotional needs at the expense of WLM goals during periods of stress and negative mood states was reported more often by ‘Regainers’. Optimistic beliefs about maintaining weight losses appeared to interfere with barrier identification and coping planning for most participants.

Conclusions

People tended to be very optimistic about WLM without acknowledging barriers and this may undermine longer‐term outcomes. The potential for regain remained over time, mainly as a result of emotion‐triggered eating to alleviate stress and negative feelings. More active self‐regulation during these circumstances may improve WLM, and these situations represent important targets for intervention.
Rapid and longer‐term effects of selective breeding for voluntary exercise behavior on skeletal morphology in house mice
Authors: Castro Alberto A. , Rabitoy Hannah , Claghorn Gerald C. , Garland Theodore
Published: October 2020

Selection experiments can elucidate the varying course of adaptive changes across generations. We examined the appendicular skeleton of house mice from four replicate High Runner (HR) lines bred for physical activity on wheels and four non‐selected Control (C) lines. HR mice reached apparent selection limits between generations 17 and 27, running ~3‐fold more than C. Studies at generations 11, 16, and 21 found that HR mice had evolved thicker hindlimb bones, heavier feet, and larger articular surface areas of the knee and hip joint. Based on biomechanical theory, any or all of these evolved differences may be beneficial for endurance running. Here, we studied mice from generation 68, plus a limited sample from generation 58, to test whether the skeleton continued to evolve after selection limits were reached. Contrary to our expectations, we found few differences between HR and C mice for these later generations, and some of the differences in bone dimensions identified in earlier generations were no longer statistically significant. We hypothesize that the loss of apparently coadapted lower‐level traits reflects (1) deterioration related to a gradual increase in inbreeding and/or (2) additional adaptive changes that replace the functional benefits of some skeletal changes.
Anxiety and depression in pediatric patients with vitiligo and alopecia areata and their parents: A cross‐sectional controlled study
Authors: Savaş Erdoğan Sevil , Falay Gür Tuğba , Doğan Bilal
Published: October 2020

Background

Alopecia areata (AA) and vitiligo are associated with various psychiatric comorbidities, and the care of a child with AA or vitiligo may be associated with higher anxiety and depression than healthy children.

Aims

We aimed to identify psychiatric findings in children and adolescent groups with AA and vitiligo and to evaluate the levels of anxiety and depression in their parents.

Methods

This study included 31 patients with AA and 29 patients with vitiligo, aged seven to 17 years, and their parents. Age‐ and gender‐matched 30 controls and their parents were included. The patients and controls completed the Revised Child Anxiety and Depression Scales‐Child version (RCADS‑C), and their parents completed the parent version (RCADS‐P). The parents also completed the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). In addition, the stressful event history of all cases was noted.

Results

Stressful event history was higher in the vitiligo group compared to the AA group, and it was higher in the AA and vitiligo groups compared to the control group. Separation anxiety, generalized anxiety, social phobia, and major depressive disorder (MDD) scores were higher in the AA group than controls according to the RCADS‐C. According to the RCADS‐P, panic disorder (PD), MDD, and total anxiety scores were higher in the AA group. Only the PD and MDD scores were higher in the vitiligo group than those of the controls based on the RCADS‐P. Lastly, no significant difference was observed between the three groups concerning the parents' BAI and BDI scores.

Conclusions

Stressful events were more common in pediatric patients with vitiligo than those with AA. Anxiety symptoms were more prevalent in patients with AA than those with vitiligo.
Retracted: The role of hyaluronic acid and amino acid against the aging of the human skin: A clinical and histological study
Authors: Scarano Antonio , Sbarbati Andrea , Amore Roberto , Iorio Eugenio Luigi , Ferraro Giueseppe , Marchetti Marco , Amuso Domenico
Published: October 2020

Background

In esthetic medicine, different techniques have been used against the aging of the human skin especially in the facial area. Hyaluronic acid is used for improving the quantity of water and extracellular matrix molecule. The aim of this study is a clinical and histological evaluation of the effect of low‐molecular‐weight hyaluronic acid fragments mixed with amino acid (HAAM) on the rejuvenation the face skin treated with intradermal microinjections.

Methods

Twenty women with mean age 45 range from 35 to 64 were studied, thereof 8 in menopause and 12 of childbearing age. The patients were treated with the HAAM products by mesotherapy technique; before and after 3 months of the therapeutic procedure, each patient underwent small biopsies with a circular punch biopsy.

Results

The clinical results of the present study showed that the administration of the dermal filler containing fragments of hyaluronic acid between 20 and 38 monomers and amino acid via dermis injection technique produces an esthetic improvement in the faces of the treated patients, while the histological evaluation shows an increased fibroblast activity with the production of type III reticular collagen and increased number of vessels and epidermis thickness.

Conclusions

The clinical and histological assessment showed that subcutaneous HAAM infiltration has a significant impact on the dermis and clinical aspects of the face.
A Method for Economical Smartphone‐Based Clinical 3D Facial Scanning
Authors: Nightingale Renee Christine , Ross Maureen Therese , Allenby Mark Colin , Woodruff Maria Ann , Powell Sean Keiran
Published: October 2020

Purpose

Three‐dimensional (3D) facial scanning is an emerging clinical tool to capture external anatomical features for quantitative assessment and treatment in a wide range of clinical settings.

Materials and Methods

In this study, an economical approach for rapid scanning of faces in the clinic was developed and validated to record valuable 3D patient data using smartphone cameras and photogrammetry software. Five novice operators were recruited to watch an instructional video developed on the technique before scanning 20 healthy adult participants.

Results

The smartphone‐based photogrammetry approach produced scans with 1.3 mm (±0.3 mm) accuracy in comparison to a metrology‐rated gold standard device and were 88% (±14%) complete, with no significant difference observed between operators. A moderate to strong intrarater reliability was determined for all novice operators, suggesting that first‐use operators can capture consistent scans based on watching an instructional video.

Conclusion

Smartphone photogrammetry could provide a rapid, noninvasive and economical method to capture patient morphological data for clinical assessment and personalized device manufacture. Inexperienced operators can quickly learn and utilize smartphone photogrammetry to provide accurate and reliable facial scans, essential for future clinical translation.
Effects of Fathers on Adolescent Daughters’ Frequency of Substance Use and Risky Sexual Behavior
Authors: DelPriore Danielle J. , Brener Susan A. , Hill Sarah E. , Ellis Bruce J.
Published: October 2020

This research: (1) implements a genetically informed design to examine the effects of fathers’ presence–absence and quality of behavior during childhood/adolescence on daughters’ frequency of substance use during adolescence; and (2) tests substance use frequency as mediating the relation between paternal behavior and daughters’ sexual risk taking. Participants were 223 sister dyads from divorced/separated biological families. Sisters’ developmental exposure to socially deviant paternal behavior predicted their frequency of tobacco, alcohol, and cannabis (TAC) use. Older sisters who co‐resided with fathers who were more (vs. less) socially deviant reported more frequent TAC use during adolescence. More frequent TAC use predicted more risky sexual behavior for these daughters. No effects were found for younger sisters, who spent less time living with their fathers.
A polyphasic approach to the study of the genus Nitzschia (Bacillariophyta): three new planktonic species from the Adriatic Sea
Authors: Mucko Maja , Bosak Sunčica , Mann David G. , Trobajo Rosa , Wetzel Carlos E. , Peharec Štefanić Petra , Ljubešić Zrinka
Published: October 2020

The paraphyletic diatom genus Nitzschia comprises over 1000 morphologically distinct pennate taxa, known from the benthos and plankton of freshwater, brackish, and marine environments. The principal diagnostic characters for delimitation of Nitzschia species include valve shape, the position and structure of the raphe, presence/absence and shape of the proximal raphe endings and terminal raphe fissures, areola structure, and specific morphometric features such as cell size, and stria and fibula density. In this study, we isolated 12 diatom strains into culture from samples collected at the surface or greater depths of the southeastern Adriatic Sea. Morphological analyses included LM, SEM, and TEM observations, which, along with specific morphometric features, allowed us to distinguish three new Nitzschia species. These findings were congruent with the results of phylogenetic analyses performed on nuclear‐encoded SSU (18S) rDNA and chloroplast‐encoded rbcL and psbC genes. One of the new species (Nitzschia dalmatica sp. nov.) formed a lineage within a clade of Bacillariaceae containing members of the Nitzschia sect. Dubiae, which was sister to Psammodictyon. A second lineage was part of a novel clade that is significantly distinct from other Nitzschia species sequenced so far and includes Nitzschia adhaerens sp. nov. and N. cf. adhaerens. A further new species was found, Nitzschia inordinata sp. nov., which appeared as the sister group to the N. adhaerens clade and the conopeoid Nitzschia species in our phylogenetic trees. Our findings contribute to the overall diversity of genus Nitzschia, especially in identifying some deep branches within the Bacillariaceae, and highlight under‐scoring of this genus in marine plankton.
New mouse model of underactive bladder developed by placement of a metal ring around the bladder neck
Authors: Eljamal Kareman , Kajioka Shunichi , Maki Tomoko , Ushijima Miho , Kawagoe Kentaro , Lee Ken , Sasaguri Toshiyuki
Published: October 2020

Objective

To develop a new mouse model of underactive bladder (UAB) caused by chronic bladder outlet obstruction (BOO).

Methods

BOO was created in 6‐week‐old male C57BL/6 mice using surgery to loosely place a silver jump ring around the bladder neck of each mouse. Micturition behavior (assessed with a metabolic cage) and cystometry were used to evaluate bladder function at 8 and 16 weeks after BOO. Following completion of the functional studies, the bladders of the mice were excised, weighed, and subjected to histological analysis.

Results

Micturition behavior analysis showed that mice subjected to BOO for 16 weeks had a lower frequency of micturition (7.3 ± 1.1 vs 12.5 ± 3.0 times/d, P < .05) and volume per void (106.0 ± 0.1 vs 133.9 ± 3.2 μL, P < .05) than mice subjected to BOO for 8 weeks. Cystometry revealed that mice subjected to BOO for 16 weeks had lower baseline pressure (8.4 ± 0.6 vs 14.0 ± 0.7 cmH2O, P < .01) and micturition pressure (13.9 ± 1.1 vs 42.8 ± 1.7 cmH2O, P < .05) than mice subjected to BOO for 8 weeks. BOO caused progressive increases in bladder mass and collagen deposition over time.

Conclusions

We successfully established a novel mouse model of UAB using surgery to place a silver jump ring loosely on the bladder neck. BOO initially induced bladder overactivity but subsequently resulted in UAB due to deterioration of detrusor smooth muscle contractility and progressive deposition of collagen in the bladder wall.
Reference values of mandibular condyles metabolic activity: A study using 99mTc‐MDP single‐photon emission computed tomography
Authors: López Diego Fernando , Castro María Angélica , Muñoz Juan Manuel , Cárdenas‐Perilla Rodrigo
Published: October 2020

Objective

To assess the condylar bone metabolic activity in patients with temporomandibular joint health by measuring 99mTc‐MDP uptake using a single‐photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) to establish reference values of the uptake difference between condyles and the ratio with respect to the clivus.

Setting and sample population

Eighty consecutive patients of both sexes who were admitted to a Nuclear Medicine Centre between 2017 and 2019 were included in the study.

Method

This was an observational cross‐sectional study in patients with SPECT indications to evaluate pathologies other than those of the temporomandibular joint. The values of the total and normalized counts in a fixed region of interest of five trans‐axial slides were obtained to assess the percentage difference between the sides and the uptake ratio. The reference values are expressed as median and 5th and 95th percentiles.

Results

The sample included 53 women (66.25%) and 27 men (33.75%) aged 15‐55 years. The percentage of uptake difference between condyles was 5.04% (0.46‐14.78) for men and 5.17% (0.27‐13.21) for women (difference not significant, P = .9). The uptake difference was below 10% in 85% of the subjects (n = 68). The ratio values for total counts in women (0.87, 0.46‐1.33) were significantly different (P = .0030) from those in men (1.08, 0.61‐2.09). No significant correlation with age was found.

Conclusions

These new reference ranges are applicable to the diagnosis of unilateral and bilateral condylar hyperplasia.
Pulmonary hypertensive crisis: A potential reason for right ventricle and pacemaker lead failure
Authors: Aydemir Merve Maze , Kafali Hasan Candas , Gemici Hakan , Yildiz Okan , Ergul Yakup
Published: October 2020

Cardiac pacemakers have improved patient survival and quality of life, although malfunctions can be seen. We present the case of a girl with Seckel syndrome and congenital complete heart block. She had a single chamber permanent pacemaker in the right ventricle. When she referred us with a pulmonary hypertensive crisis (PHC), it was seen that the device was not pacing even in maximum threshold and pulse width values. After new epicardial lead implantation into the left ventricular apex, capture could be established again. For the cases presenting with capture failure, after eliminating lead‐related problems and biochemical abnormalities, PHC should be kept in mind as a reason.
Age‐related white matter changes revealed by a whole‐brain fiber‐tracking method in bipolar disorder compared to major depressive disorder and healthy controls
Authors: Masuda Yoshikazu , Okada Go , Takamura Masahiro , Shibasaki Chiyo , Yoshino Atsuo , Yokoyama Satoshi , Ichikawa Naho , Okuhata Shiho , Kobayashi Tetsuo , Yamawaki Shigeto , Okamoto Yasumasa
Published: October 2020

Aim

Several studies have reported altered age‐associated changes in white matter integrity in bipolar disorder (BD). However, little is known as to whether these age‐related changes are illness‐specific. We assessed disease‐specific effects by controlling for age and investigated age‐associated changes and Group × Age interactions in white matter integrity among major depressive disorder (MDD) patients, BD patients, and healthy controls.

Methods

Healthy controls (n = 96; age range, 20–77 years), MDD patients (n = 101; age range, 25–78 years), and BD patients (n = 58; age range, 22–76 years) participated in this study. Fractional anisotropy (FA) derived from diffusion tensor imaging in 54 white matter tracts were compared after controlling for the linear and quadratic effect of age using a generalized linear model. Age‐related effects and Age × Group interactions were also assessed in the model.

Results

The main effect of group was significant in the left column and body of the fornix after controlling for both linear and quadratic effects of age, and in the left body of the corpus callosum after controlling for the quadratic effect of age. BD patients exhibited significantly lower FA relative to other groups. There was no Age × Group interaction in the tracts.

Conclusion

Significant FA reductions were found in BD patients after controlling for age, indicating that abnormal white matter integrity in BD may occur at a younger age rather than developing progressively with age.
Food Aid Modality Selection Problem
Authors: Sahinyazan Feyza G. , Rancourt Marie‐Ève , Verter Vedat
Published: October 2020

Aid agencies implement food aid programs to alleviate chronic hunger. These agencies can choose direct, in‐kind distribution of food commodities, or they can provide cash or vouchers. To determine which aid modality to use for distributing aid, organizations currently use decision trees or other guidelines. In this study, we present a novel mathematical formulation to determine the optimal approach for allocating modalities and quantities of aid to beneficiaries, while also considering the beneficiaries’ needs and preferences. This also enables aid agencies to estimate the benefits of their programs for all stakeholders (i.e., beneficiaries, local retailers, and the organization) and help them design more tailored programs. The proposed model has three objectives to assess potential solutions: program costs, beneficiaries’ nutrition levels, and economic contributions to the local economy. The beneficiaries’ consumption behavior is incorporated into the model through a bilevel optimization structure to capture and prevent inefficient cash use by beneficiaries. We validate the model using data from the World Food Programme’s operations in Garissa County, Kenya. We analyze how robustly our solution handles possible variations in different cost parameters, including food commodity prices and operational costs. Finally, we demonstrate how to use the model to evaluate policies intended to improve program outcomes, such as educating beneficiaries about nutrition or fortifying grains available locally. Our results show that a modality’s effectiveness depends on the population and market characteristics, and no modality should be presumed superior to another without in‐depth analyses.
Heart rate response to orthostatic challenge in patients with dementia with Lewy bodies and Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Omoya Rie , Miyajima Miho , Ohta Katsuya , Suzuki Yoko , Aoki Ai , Fujiwara Mayo , Watanabe Takafumi , Yoshida Noriko , Suwa Hiroshi , Kawara Tokuhiro , Takahashi Hidehiko , Matsushima Eisuke , Takeuchi Takashi
Published: October 2020

Background

To elucidate the differences in autonomic dysfunction between dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) and Alzheimer's disease using a simple and convenient method, we investigated the heart rate response to orthostatic challenge.

Methods

Ninety‐seven people participated in this cross‐sectional study, and data from 26 DLB patients, 29 Alzheimer's disease patients, and 25 healthy elderly individuals were analysed. Participants underwent postural changes, including 5 min in a supine position, 1 min in a sitting position, and 3 min in an orthostatic position. Their heart rates were continuously recorded. Two heart rate variables were analysed as main outcomes: (i) the difference between heart rate in the sitting position and the peak heart rate within 15 s of orthostasis, defined as the ‘early heart rate increase’; and (ii) the difference between the peak heart rate and the negative peak heart rate after this, defined as ‘early heart rate recovery.’ An early heart rate increase has been considered to reflect parasympathetic and sympathetic functions. Early heart rate recovery is considered to reflect parasympathetic function. We also investigated the frequency domains of resting heart rate variability.

Results

A significant difference was observed across the three groups in early heart rate increase, and that of the DLB group was lower than that of the healthy control group. Early heart rate recovery also differed significantly across the three groups, and that of the DLB group was less than that of the healthy control group. In addition, the power of the low‐frequency component, which represents both sympathetic and parasympathetic activity, was significantly decreased in the DLB group compared to the Alzheimer's disease group.

Conclusions

Impaired heart rate response to standing was detected in patients with DLB. Electrocardiogram is a convenient, non‐invasive method that might be useful as a subsidiary marker for DLB diagnosis and differentiation from Alzheimer's disease.
Sedimentology and stratigraphy of a modern halite sequence formed under Dead Sea level fall
Authors: Sirota Ido , Enzel Yehouda , Mor Ziv , Ben Moshe Liran , Eyal Haggai , Lowenstein Tim K. , Lensky Nadav G.
Published: October 2020

Halite sequences in the geological record accumulated in deep hypersaline basins. However, such halite sequences are interpreted based on modern analogues of halite deposition in shallow hypersaline environments. Recently, halite deposition in the deep, hypersaline Dead Sea has been studied together with its coeval environmental and limnogeological forcing. This is the closest modern analogue for deep environments. Therefore, stratigraphy, sedimentology and petrography of a well‐dated, high‐resolution modern Dead Sea halite sequence are explored. The sequence was deposited during a ca 30 m lake‐level decline since the onset of modern halite deposition in 1980, and was compared with sub‐annual lake levels, precipitation and flood records. The sedimentology of the sequence documents the trend of shallowing water depth, including individual floods. The sequence base is composed of alternating bottom growth‐cumulate halite annual couplets, typical of deep hypolimnetic water deposition. Up‐sequence, the annual couplets disappear and towards its top are composed of cumulate layers with dissolution features, typical of shallow epilimnetic water deposition. Halite deposition rate is reduced by 60% at the shallow lakefloor compared with the deep lakefloor, mainly due to the summer undersaturation that leads to depocentre ‘halite focusing'. The top of the sequence contains shoreline deposits, halolites (halite ooids) and polygonal surface cracks, indicating subaerial exposure. This study shows petrographic indicators for summer thermal dissolution (partially dissolved crystals), which are distinct from dissolution features by winter floods that generate a regional truncation surface. Spatial variations in halite thickness and facies, indicating much thinner and spatially limited halite units compared to modelled halite units based on mass balance considerations were also observed. These observations provide criteria for: (i) recognizing water depths and shallowing lake‐level trends from halite sequences throughout the geological record; and (ii) interpreting palaeolimnology, water column structure and the relations between stratigraphic horizons and corresponding shorelines.
Caught in two worlds: A critical review of culture and gender in the leadership literature
Authors: Corpuz Ember , Due Clemence , Augoustinos Martha
Published: October 2020

The concept of intersectionality, the overlapping nature of social identities and systems of power, has become increasingly influential in the social sciences literature. However, the analysis of leadership experiences at the intersections of culture and gender has remained marginal to the field despite the rapid growth of diverse workplaces worldwide. This review aims to find out whether there is evidence of underrepresentation of culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) women leaders, analyze common theoretical developments in the literature, and recommend an agenda for further research. In this study, published, peer‐reviewed qualitative and quantitative articles were examined. This critical appraisal identifies three evolving strands of research from the past 20 years. The majority of the manuscripts highlight the absence of CALD women in the leadership literature, describe the obstacles they face, and illustrate how they view their role and enact leadership. This paper discusses the areas central to intersectional leadership that require further examination to better understand the underrepresentation of CALD women in leadership positions.
Using laser Doppler flowmetry with wavelet analysis to study skin blood flow regulations after cupping therapy
Authors: Hou Xiao , He Xiangfeng , Zhang Xueyan , Liao Fuyuan , Hung Yu‐Ju , Jan Yih‐Kuen
Published: October 2020

Background

The purpose of this study was to use laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF) with wavelet analysis to investigate skin blood flow control mechanisms in response to various intensities of cupping therapy. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to assess skin blood flow control mechanism in response to cupping therapy using wavelet analysis of laser Doppler blood flow oscillations.

Materials and Methods

Twelve healthy participants were recruited for this repeated‐measures study. Three different intensities of cupping therapy were applied using 3 cup sizes at 35, 40, and 45 mm (in diameter) with 300 mm Hg negative pressure for 5 minutes. LDF was used to measure skin blood flow (SBF) on the triceps before and after cupping therapy. Wavelet analysis was used to analyze the blood flow oscillations (BFO) to assess blood flow control mechanisms.

Results

The wavelet amplitudes of metabolic and cardiac controls after cupping therapy were higher than those before cupping therapy. For the metabolic control, the 45‐mm cupping protocol (1.65 ± 0.09) was significantly higher than the 40‐mm cupping protocol (1.40 ± 0.10, P < .05) and the 35‐mm cupping protocol (1.35 ± 0.12, P < .05). No differences were showed in the cardiac control among the 35‐mm (1.61 ± 0.20), 40‐mm (1.64 ± 0.24), and 45‐mm (1.27 ± 0.25) cupping protocols.

Conclusion

The metabolic and cardiac controls significantly contributed to the increase in SBF after cupping therapy. Different intensities of cupping therapy caused different responses within the metabolic control and not the cardiac control.
Responses of soil bacteria and fungi after 36 years fertilizer, straw cover and irrigation management practices in northwest China
Authors: Zhang Ranran , Gu Jie , Wang Xiaojuan
Published: October 2020

Soil biodiversity has become a hot research topic base on its important role in maintaining the stability of soil function. This study examined the impacts of long‐term (36 years) management practices on the soil microbial community. We employed high‐throughput sequencing to determine the diversity and composition of the bacterial and fungal communities under different long‐term management practices in a fertilizer application experiment that started in 1981. The following fertilizer treatments were compared with a control treatment without fertilizer: nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizer (NP), straw cover plus nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizer (NPCS), and irrigation plus nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers (NPIR). Inorganic fertilizer significantly increased the soil moisture contents and most of the soil nutrient levels, and straw cover was better at retaining soil moisture and nutrients than irrigation. The bacterial and fungal α‐diversity in the NP treatment did not differ from those in the control (p > .05). In addition, there were no differences in the bacterial α‐diversity in NPCS and NPIR. However, there was a significant increase in the α‐diversity of the fungal community under straw cover compared with the irrigation treatment (p < .05). Soil characteristics such as the moisture content, soil organic matter, total nitrogen, alkali‐hydrolysable nitrogen and total phosphorus made equally important contributions to the bacterial and fungal communities according to redundancy analysis. Therefore, we speculated that straw cover was useful to improve soil bioactivity with a rich and stable microbial ecosystem. The results of this study provide theoretical data for the protection of soil microbial diversity.
Basic principles of viscoelastic testing
Authors: Carll Timothy , Wool Geoffrey D.
Published: October 2020

Background

Viscoelastic testing is a method of hemostatic analysis that provides a real‐time, holistic view of ex vivo clotting. It allows for examination of both cellular and plasma protein contributions to clotting including platelet number and function, fibrin(ogen) function, and coagulation factor function. The method assesses physical clot properties during the transition of blood from a liquid to a gel state, either by measurement of clot shear modulus using physical force transduction or by measurement of clot resonance frequency using sonometric interrogation. Results are reported in a live trace, with different trace parameters reflecting different contributors to hemostasis. These reported parameters vary between testing platforms.

Results

In the United States, there are several commonly used Food and Drug Administration (FDA)‐approved viscoelastic instruments available on the market. Those instruments that use sonometric clot assessment are more recently available and allow for improved portability for use near the patient's bedside. These instruments generally feature different reagent kits that allow more specific interrogation of different hemostatic pathways.

Viscoelastic testing can predict the results of traditional plasma‐based coagulation assays and has the added benefit of detecting hypercoagulability and severe hyperfibrinolysis. Implementation of viscoelastic testing in many clinical settings is becoming widespread and has proven to be efficacious in reducing blood transfusion rates in many settings. An impact on overall mortality and morbidity has not yet been demonstrated.

Conclusion

This article provides a narrative review of the basic principles of viscoelastic testing, including the science and technology behind the method, as well as currently available testing platforms and reagents.
The strengths and weaknesses of viscoelastic testing compared to traditional coagulation testing
Authors: Cohen Tobias , Haas Thorsten , Cushing Melissa M.
Published: October 2020

Optimized acute bleeding management requires timely and reliable laboratory testing to detect and diagnose coagulopathies and guide transfusion therapy. Conventional coagulation tests (CCT) are inexpensive with minimal labor requirements, but CCTs may have delayed turnaround times. In addition, abnormal CCT values may not reflect in vivo coagulopathies that require treatment and may lead to overtransfusion. The use of viscoelastic testing (VET) has been rapidly expanding and is recommended by several recent bleeding guidelines. This review is intended to compare CCT to VET, review the strengths and weaknesses of both approaches, and evaluate and summarize the clinical studies that compared CCT‐based and VET‐based transfusion algorithms. Most studies of CCT vs VET transfusion algorithms favor the use of VET in the management of massively bleeding patients due to reductions in blood product utilization, bleeding, costs, and lengths of stay.
Viscoelastic testing in liver transplantation
Authors: Sakai Tetsuro
Published: October 2020

Despite the lack of large randomized clinical studies, viscoelastic tests (VETs) have been a critical armamentarium for hemostatic control in liver transplantation (LT) since the 1960s. Many transplant institutions have adopted VETs in their clinical practice. Several small‐size randomized clinical trials on LT patients have suggested that VET‐guided hemostatic treatment algorithms have led to decreased indications for and amounts of transfused blood products, especially fresh‐frozen plasma, compared to standard laboratory‐based hemostatic management. VETs have also been reported to offer insight into the diagnosis and prediction of LT patients' development of hypercoagulability‐related morbidity and mortality. There is still a need for VET device–specific hemostatic algorithms in LT, and clinicians must take into account the tendency to underestimate the coagulation capacity of VETs in patients with end‐stage liver disease where hemostasis is rebalanced.
Role of therapeutic plasma exchanges in refractory severe warm autoimmune hemolytic anemia: Presentation of two case reports
Authors: García‐García Irene , Cid Joan , Palomino Alicia , Giné Eva , Alvarez‐Larrán Alberto , Cibeira María T. , Lozano Miquel
Published: October 2020

Background

Warm autoimmune hemolytic anemia (WAIHA) is a disorder with a usually good response to corticosteroid treatment, whereas in some cases first‐line treatment's response is poor and other therapies such as intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIGs), rituximab, or splenectomy must be applied.

Study Design and Methods

Herein, we describe two patients with severe WAIHA treated at our center, who obtained a response after therapeutic plasma exchanges (TPEs) combined with low doses of IVIG.

Results

The first patient was an 18‐year‐old man with no relevant past medical history who was diagnosed with WAIHA. The patient presented a progressive clinical worsening despite treatment with prednisone, IVIG, and rituximab. After starting TPEs, signs of hemolysis rapidly improved and hemoglobin started to recover. The second patient was a 38‐year‐old man with a past history of immune thrombocytopenia and WAIHA. The patient presented a new flare of WAIHA, with no response after 2 weeks of treatment with corticosteroids, IVIG, and rituximab. After initiation of TPEs, the patient had an improvement in hemolysis biomarkers and recovery of hemoglobin concentration.

Conclusion

Combination of TPEs with rituximab and IVIG might be considered as a therapeutic option in patients with severe WAIHA without response to corticosteroid and IVIG treatment.
Strategies for blood collection and optimization of the blood supply chain during the COVID‐19 pandemic in Greece
Authors: Politis Constantina , Richardson Clive , Hassapopoulou‐Matamis Helen , Politi Lida , Hatziagapiou Kyriaki , Grouzi Elisavet , Bollas George , Soulakis Vassilios , Pagonis Sotirios , Nomikou Efrosini , Constantinidis Eleftherios , Zervou Eleftheria
Published: October 2020

Background

Early action in Greece restricted COVID‐19 to Europe’s second lowest rate of cases and deaths. However, the pandemic significantly reduced blood supply. We present counter‐measures implemented in Greece, analyse data retrieved from blood services in the period from 1st February to 14th May 2020, and examine the pandemic’s impact on blood supply and demand.

Materials and Methods

Sixteen blood services provided their aggregate blood collection, broken down by whole blood or platelet apheresis, and by location (inside or outside the hospital), every two weeks during the study period. Aggregate donor demographics were recorded where available. Total collection was compared by period and location.

Results

Total blood collection declined by 36% during the study, especially (65%) on the premises of the blood services. However, outpatient blood sessions organized under the ‘All Together We Can’ programme had an important impact, and supply and demand were balanced by the end of the study.

Conclusion

The strategy of blood sessions and blood drives in outpatient facilities, rather than the in‐hospital environment, was successful in securing a balance between blood collection and demand. Significant shortages in supply were reported, as expected during pandemics; however, the blood inventory was managed efficiently and a demand‐based blood collection and allocation plan was developed to achieve adequate blood supply. Stringent transfusion criteria and surveillance for emergency usage of blood components were used to help in this. An active surveillance system for emergency procurement and use of blood components was also designed to optimize the blood supply chain.
A Comparative Study on the Herd Behavior of Chinese Equity and Partial Equity Hybrid Funds-Empirical Analysis Based on Market Fluctuations
Authors: Liu Jingyu , Liu Mingyang
Published: October 2020

This paper uses the LSV model and the VOL volatility index, as well as the quarterly position data of equity funds and partial equity hybrid funds from the first quarter of 2007 to the fourth quarter of 2019 to conduct an empirical study on the herd behavior of both kinds of funds. Then establish a connection with the volatility of the Shanghai Stock Exchange over the same period. The results show that the overall trend of herd behavior between equity funds and partial equity hybrid funds is almost completely opposite. Equity funds have a stronger herd behavior in buying, while partial equity hybrid funds have a stronger herd behavior in selling. Meanwhile, when the volatility of the Shanghai Composite Index increased significantly, the herd behavior in selling both increased.
A Review of Thermo-Hydraulic Performance of Metal Foam and Its Application as Heat Sinks for Electronics Cooling
Authors: Li Yongtong , Gong Liang , Xu Minghai , Joshi Yogendra
Published: October 2020

High porosity metal foams offer large surface area per unit volume and have been considered as effective candidates for convection heat transfer enhancement, with applications as heat sinks in electronics cooling. In this paper, the research progress in thermohydraulic performance characterization of metal foams and their application as heat sinks for electronics cooling are reviewed. We focus on buoyancy-induced convection, forced convection, flow boiling, and solid/liquid phase change using phase change materials (PCMs). Under these heat transfer conditions, the effects of various parameters influencing the performance of metal foam heat sink are discussed. It is concluded that metal foams demonstrate promising capability for heat transfer augmentation, but some key issues still need to be investigated regarding the fundamental mechanisms of heat transfer to enable the development of more efficient and compact heat sinks.
Characteristics of Diamond Abrasive Used in Magnetic Abrasive Finishing of Nickel-Based Superalloys
Authors: Ratay Jason , Wu Pei-Ying , Feirvezers Alex , Yamaguchi Hitomi
Published: October 2020

Nickel-based superalloys have a wide range of high-temperature applications such as turbine blades. The complex geometries of these applications and the specific properties of the materials raise difficulties in the surface finishing. Magnetic abrasive finishing (MAF) has proven effective in finishing the complex geometries. In MAF, the magnetic properties of the workpiece, tool, and abrasive play important roles in controlling finishing characteristics. This paper presents the effects of nickel coating on the abrasive behavior during finishing and resulting finishing characteristics of Ni-based superalloys. The Ni-coated diamond abrasive is more attracted to the magnet than the Ni-based superalloy surface. As a result, fewer Ni-coated diamond abrasive particles, which are stuck between the magnetic-particle brush and the target surface, participate in surface finishing. Because of this, coupled with the reduced sharpness of abrasive cutting edges due to the coating, Ni-coated diamond abrasive cannot effectively smooth the target surface in MAF. However, the Ni coating is worn off during finishing of the hard, rough, additively manufactured surface. Then, the diamond abrasive participates in finishing as uncoated diamond abrasive and facilitates the material removal, finishing the target surface.
Use of Mathematical Model to Predict the Maximum Permissible Stage Injection Time for Mitigating Frac-Driven Interactions in Hydraulic-Fracturing Shale Gas/Oil Wells
Authors: Zhang Nan , Guo Boyun
Published: October 2020

Frac-driven interactions (FDIs) often lead to sharp decline in gas and oil production rates of wells in shale gas/oil reservoirs. How to minimize the FDI is an open problem in the oil and gas industry. Xiao et al.’s (2019, “An Analytical Model for Describing Sequential Initiation and Simultaneous Propagation of Multiple Fractures in Hydraulic Fracturing Shale Oil/Gas Formations,” Energy Sci Eng., 7(5), pp. 1514–1526.) analytical model for two-fracture systems was extended in this study to obtain a general model for handling multiple fractures. The general model was used to identify engineering factors affecting the maximum permissible stage fluid injection time for minimizing FDI. On the basis of model results obtained, we found that increasing fluid injection rate can create more short fractures and thus increase the maximum permissible stage injection time before FDI occurs. Use of dilatant type of fracturing fluid (n > 1) can reduce the growth of long fractures, promote the creation of more short fractures, and thus increase the maximum permissible stage injection time before FDI occurs. It is also expected that injecting dilatant type of fracturing fluid at high rate will allow for longer injection time and thus larger injection volume, resulting in larger stimulated reservoir volume (SRV) with higher fracture intensity and thus higher well productivity and hydrocarbon recovery factor.
Energy Efficiency Improvement of a Refrigerator Integrated With Phase Change Material-Based Condenser
Authors: Dandotiya Devendra , Banker Nitin D.
Published: October 2020

Energy consumption of a household refrigerator majorly depends on the ambient temperature and is highest at the noontime and lowest at the night. To mitigate the impact of higher ambient temperature, condenser of the refrigerator is modified by incorporating phase change material (PCM) in it. This article presents the development of numerical model of the PCM-based condenser and its comparison with the experimental model. A 3D numerical model for a PCM, namely, FS21-based condenser has been developed in commercial software ansys fluent 16.2, and the simulation outcomes are compared with the experimental test results. A correlation of a coefficient of performance (COP) which is a function of PCM temperature has been proposed. Based on the developed numerical model and the correlation, two other PCM-based heat exchangers, RT25 and RT25HC, are also analyzed numerically and their PCM temperatures are predicted. At the end, COP of the refrigerator with each PCM is compared.
Evaluation of the Pore Structure Variation During Hydraulic Fracturing in Marine Shale Reservoirs
Authors: Meng Mianmo , Ge Hongkui , Shen Yinghao , Ji Wenming
Published: October 2020

Hydraulic fracturing becomes a necessary method to exploit shale gas, and the imbibition behavior of fracturing fluid can cause the pore structure variation. At present, the evaluation of this variation has less been investigated, and repeated imbibition was conducted to research the variation of pore structure. First imbibition was conducted as simulating the pore structure variation during hydraulic fracturing, and repeated imbibition was carried out to appraise this kind of variation. Two significant parameters were proposed to estimate the pore structure variation, which are the differential value of initial imbibition rate and the utmost differential value of normalized imbibed volume. Initial imbibition rate is closely related to pore connectivity, and normalized imbibed volume reflects the pore volume. Reservoirs with a higher value of these two parameters have advantage for developing its resources. Sichuan Longmaxi formation has the highest value in both parameters among all formations, which showed that Sichuan Longmaxi formation has advantage for exploiting its resources by hydraulic fracturing. Baojing Longmaxi formation, Sichuan Niutitang formation, and Cengong Niutitang formation have a lower value in both two parameters which indicated that these formations have less potential to develop its resources by hydraulic fracturing. These two parameters are mainly influenced by wettability and initial permeability, and have no obvious relationship with clay content. Overall, our research is conducive to screening the ideal formation for exploiting shale gas by hydraulic fracturing.