bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Architecture as change-agent? Looking for innovation in contemporary forensic psychiatric hospital design
Authors: Mclaughlan Rebecca , Lyon Codey , Jaskolska Dagmara
Published: October 2020

History suggests that departures from accepted design practice can contribute to positive change in the delivery of mental healthcare, the daily experience of hospitalised patients and public perceptions of mental illness. Yet the question of how architecture can support the therapeutic journey of patients remains a critical one. The availability of evidence-based design literature to guide architects cannot keep pace with growing global demand for new forensic psychiatric hospital facilities. This article reports a global survey of current design practice to speculate on the potential of three new hospitals to positively improve patient experience. A desktop survey was conducted of 31 psychiatric hospitals (24 forensic, 7 non-forensic) constructed or scheduled for completion between 2006 and 2022. This was supplemented by advisory panel sessions with clinical/facilities staff, alongside architectural knowledge obtained through workshops with architects from the UK and the USA, and the inclusion of Australian architects on the research team. Data analysis draws on knowledge from architectural practice, architectural history and environmental psychology, arguing that there is a responsibility to integrate knowledge from across these disciplines in respect of such a pressing and important problem.
Endothelialized silicone aneurysm models for in vitro evaluation of flow diverters
Authors: McCulloch Alyssa , Turcott Ashley , Graham Gabriella , Frenklakh Sergey , Cardinal Kristen O'Halloran
Published: October 2020

Objective

The goal of this work was to endothelialize silicone aneurysm tubes for use as in vitro models for evaluating endothelial cell interactions with neurovascular devices. The first objective was to establish consistent and confluent endothelial cell linings and to evaluate the silicone vessels over time. The second objective was to use these silicone vessels for flow diverter implantation and assessment.

Methods

Silicone aneurysm tubes were coated with fibronectin and placed into individual bioreactor systems. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells were deposited within tubes to create silicone vessels, then cultivated on a peristaltic pump and harvested at 2, 5, 7, or 10 days to evaluate the endothelial cell lining. A subset of silicone aneurysm vessels was used for flow diverter implantation, and evaluated for cell coverage over device struts at 3 or 7 days after deployment.

Results

Silicone vessels maintained confluent, PECAM-1 (platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule 1) positive endothelial cell linings over time. These vessels facilitated and withstood flow diverter implantation, with robust cell linings disclosed after device deployment. Additionally, the endothelial cells responded to implanted devices through coverage of the flow diverter struts with increased cell coverage over the aneurysm seen at 7 days after deployment as compared with 3 days.

Conclusions

Silicone aneurysm models can be endothelialized and successfully maintained in vitro over time. Furthermore, these silicone vessels can be used for flow diverter implantation and assessment.
COVID-19 pandemic and STEMI: pathway activation and outcomes from the pan-London heart attack group
Authors: Little Callum D , Kotecha Tushar , Candilio Luciano , Jabbour Richard J , Collins George B , Ahmed Asrar , Connolly Michelle , Kanyal Ritesh , Demir Ozan M , Lawson Lucy O , Wang Brian , Firoozi Sam , Spratt James C , Perera Divaka , MacCarthy Philip , Dalby Miles , Jain Ajay , Wilson Simon J , Malik Iqbal , Rakhit Roby
Published: October 2020

Objectives

To understand the impact of COVID-19 on delivery and outcomes of primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI). Furthermore, to compare clinical presentation and outcomes of patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) with active COVID-19 against those without COVID-19.

Methods

We systematically analysed 348 STEMI cases presenting to the PPCI programme in London during the peak of the pandemic (1 March to 30 April 2020) and compared with 440 cases from the same period in 2019. Outcomes of interest included ambulance response times, timeliness of revascularisation, angiographic and procedural characteristics, and in-hospital clinical outcomes

Results

There was a 21% reduction in STEMI admissions and longer ambulance response times (87 (62–118) min in 2020 vs 75 (57–95) min in 2019, p<0.001), but that this was not associated with a delays in achieving revascularisation once in hospital (48 (34–65) min in 2020 vs 48 (35–70) min in 2019, p=0.35) or increased mortality (10.9% (38) in 2020 vs 8.6% (38) in 2019, p=0.28). 46 patients with active COVID-19 were more thrombotic and more likely to have intensive care unit admissions (32.6% (15) vs 9.3% (28), OR 5.74 (95%CI 2.24 to 9.89), p<0.001). They also had increased length of stay (4 (3–9) days vs 3 (2–4) days, p<0.001) and a higher mortality (21.7% (10) vs 9.3% (28), OR 2.72 (95% CI 1.25 to 5.82), p=0.012) compared with patients having PPCI without COVID-19.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that PPCI pathways can be maintained during unprecedented healthcare emergencies but confirms the high mortality of STEMI in the context of concomitant COVID-19 infection characterised by a heightened state of thrombogenicity.
The mornings after—periarticular liposomal bupivacaine infiltration does not improve analgesic outcomes beyond 24 hours following total knee arthroplasty: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Hussain Nasir , Brull Richard , Sheehy Brendan T , Kushelev Michael , Essandoh Michael K , Abdallah Faraj W
Published: October 2020

Periarticular local infiltration analgesia (LIA) is integral to multimodal analgesia following total knee arthroplasty (TKA); however, the duration of analgesia using traditional long-acting local anesthetics is often insufficient. LIA with slow-release liposomal bupivacaine may provide extended analgesia, but evidence of efficacy beyond the first 24 hours is conflicting. This meta-analysis compares the effects of periarticular liposomal and plain bupivacaine LIA on day 2 analgesic outcomes post-TKA. Trials comparing liposomal and plain bupivacaine LIA for TKA were sought. The two coprimary outcomes were (1) cumulative oral morphine equivalent consumption and (2) difference in area under the curve (AUC) of pooled rest pain scores on day 2 (24–48 hours) post-TKA. We also evaluated pain and analgesic consumption on day 3 (48–72 hours), functional recovery, length of hospital stay, patient satisfaction; and opioid-related side effects. Data were pooled using random-effects modeling. Seventeen trials (1836 patients) were analyzed. Comparing liposomal versus plain bupivacaine LIA for TKA failed to detect differences in morphine consumption and pain AUC on day 2 postoperatively, with mean differences of 0.54 mg (95% CI −5.09 to 6.18) and 0.08 cm/hour (95% CI −0.19 to 0.35), respectively (high-quality evidence). Secondary outcome analysis did not uncover any additional analgesic, functional or safety advantages to liposomal bupivacaine on postoperative day 2 or 3. Results indicate that liposomal and plain bupivacaine LIAs are not different for extended postoperative analgesic outcomes, including pain control, opioid consumption, as well as functional and safety outcomes on days 2 and 3 post-TKA. High-quality evidence does not support using liposomal bupivacaine LIA for TKA.
Kinetics and thermodynamics of urea hydrolysis in the presence of urease and nitrification inhibitors
Authors: Lasisi Ahmed A. , Akinremi Olalekan O.
Published: October 2020

Urease inhibitor [N-(n-butyl) thiophosphoric triamide (NBPT)] and nitrification inhibitor (NI) (3,4-dimethylpyrazole phosphate) have been used to reduce nitrogen (N) losses from urea-based fertilizers. This study evaluated the effect of temperature, NBPT, and NI on kinetic and thermodynamic properties of urea hydrolysis in six soils. Soils were amended (250 kg N·ha−1) with urea (UR), NBPT treated urea (URNBPT), or NBPT + NI treated urea (URDI), incubated at 5, 15, or 25 °C, and destructively sampled eight times during an 18 d incubation. We measured urea hydrolysis rate by the disappearance of urea with time and determined the rate constant (k; d−1) assuming first-order kinetics. Our results showed that k increased with temperature in the order of 0.07 (5 °C), 0.12 (15 °C), and 0.20 (25 °C) across soils and inhibitor treatments. In addition, k declined in the order of UR (0.19) > URDI (0.11) > URNBPT (0.08) across soils and temperatures. Although urease inhibitor, NBPT, increased the half-life of urea from 3.8 to 8.3 d across soil–temperature, the addition of a NI significantly reduced the half-life of NBPT treated urea by approximately 2 d across soil–temperature. Thermodynamics parameters showed that urea hydrolysis was nonspontaneous, and enthalpy and entropy changes were not significantly different among inhibitor treatments in five of the six soils. We conclude that the often-reported greater ammonia volatilization from URDI than URNBPT may not only be due to the persistence of ammonium in the presence of NI but also because NI reduced the inhibitory effect of NBPT on urea hydrolysis.
Analysis of the core genome and pangenome of Clostridium butyricum
Authors: Zou Wei , Ye Guangbin , Zhang Kaizheng , Yang Haiquan , Yang Jiangang
Published: October 2020

Clostridium butyricum is an anaerobic bacterium that inhabits broad niches. Clostridium butyricum is known for its production of butyrate, 1,3-propanediol, and hydrogen. This study aimed to present a comparative pangenome analysis of 24 strains isolated from different niches. We sequenced and annotated the genome of C. butyricum 3-3 isolated from the Chinese baijiu ecosystem. The pangenome of C. butyricum was open. The core genome, accessory genome, and strain-specific genes comprised 1011, 4543, and 1473 genes, respectively. In the core genome, Carbohydrate metabolism was the largest category, and genes in the biosynthetic pathway of butyrate and glycerol metabolism were conserved (in the core or soft-core genome). Furthermore, the 1,3-propanediol operon existed in 20 strains. In the accessory genome, numerous mobile genetic elements belonging to the Replication, recombination, and repair (L) category were identified. In addition, genome islands were identified in all 24 strains, ranging from 2 (strain KNU-L09) to 53 (strain SU1), and phage sequences were found in 17 of the 24 strains. This study provides an important genomic framework that could pave the way for the exploration of C. butyricum and future studies on the genetic diversification of C. butyricum.
The application of numerical topological invariants in simulations of knotted rings: A comprehensive Monte Carlo approach
Authors: Ferrari Franco , Zhao Yani
Published: October 2020

In this work, a general Monte Carlo framework is proposed for applying numerical knot invariants in simulations of systems containing knotted one-dimensional ring-shaped objects like polymers and vortex lines in fluids, superfluids or other quantum liquids. A general prescription for smoothing the sharp corners appearing in discrete knots consisting of segments joined together is provided. Smoothing is very important for the correct evaluation of numerical knot invariants.

A discrete version of framing is adopted in order to eliminate singularities that are possibly arising when computing the invariants. The presented algorithms for smoothing, eliminating potentially dangerous singularities and speeding up the calculations are quite general and can be applied to any discrete knot defined off- or on-lattice.

This is one of the first attempts to use numerical knot invariants in order to avoid potential topology breakings during the sampling process taking place in computer simulations, in which millions of knot conformations are randomly generated. As an application, the energy domain of knotted polymer rings subjected to short-range interactions is studied using the so-called Vassiliev knot invariant of degree 2.
General fully coupled FBSDES involving the value function and related nonlocal HJB equations combined with algebraic equations
Authors: Hao Tao , Zhu Qingfeng
Published: October 2020

Recently, Hao and Li [Fully coupled forward-backward SDEs involving the value function. Nonlocal Hamilton–Jacobi–Bellman equations, ESAIM: Control Optim, Calc. Var. 22 (2016) 519–538] studied a new kind of forward-backward stochastic differential equations (FBSDEs), namely the fully coupled FBSDEs involving the value function in the case where the diffusion coefficient [Formula: see text] in forward stochastic differential equations depends on control, but does not depend on [Formula: see text]. In our paper, we generalize their work to the case where [Formula: see text] depends on both control and [Formula: see text], which is called the general fully coupled FBSDEs involving the value function. The existence and uniqueness theorem of this kind of equations under suitable assumptions is proved. After obtaining the dynamic programming principle for the value function [Formula: see text], we prove that the value function [Formula: see text] is the minimum viscosity solution of the related nonlocal Hamilton–Jacobi–Bellman equation combined with an algebraic equation.
Retrofitting post-quantum cryptography in internet protocols
Authors: Müller Moritz , de Jong Jins , van Heesch Maran , Overeinder Benno , van Rijswijk-Deij Roland
Published: October 2020

Quantum computing is threatening
current
cryptography, especially the asymmetric algorithms used in many Internet protocols. More secure algorithms, colloquially referred to as Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC), are under active development. These new algorithms differ significantly from current ones. They can have larger signatures or keys, and often require more computational power. This means we cannot just replace existing algorithms by PQC alternatives, but need to evaluate if they meet the requirements of the Internet protocols that rely on them.

In this paper we provide a case study, analyzing the impact of PQC on the Domain Name System (DNS) and its Security Extensions (DNSSEC). In its main role, DNS translates human-readable domain names to IP addresses and DNSSEC guarantees message integrity and authenticity. DNSSEC is particularly challenging to transition to PQC, since DNSSEC and its underlying transport protocols require small signatures and keys and efficient validation. We evaluate current candidate PQC signature algorithms in the third round of the NIST competition on their suitability for use in DNSSEC. We show that three algorithms, partially, meet DNSSEC's requirements but also show where and how we would still need to adapt DNSSEC. Thus, our research lays the foundation for making DNSSEC, and protocols with similar constraints ready for PQC.
Coronavirus contact tracing
Authors: Leith Douglas J. , Farrell Stephen
Published: October 2020

Many countries are deploying Covid-19 contact tracing apps that use Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) to detect proximity within 2m for 15 minutes. However, Bluetooth LE is an unproven technology for this application, raising concerns about the efficacy of these apps. Indeed, measurements indicate that the Bluetooth LE received signal strength can be strongly affected by factors including (i) the model of handset used, (ii) the relative orientation of handsets, (iii) absorption by human bodies, bags etc. and (iv) radio wave reflection from walls, floors, furniture. The impact on received signal strength is comparable with that caused by moving 2m, and so has the potential to seriously affect the reliability of proximity detection. These effects are due the physics of radio propagation and suggest that the development of accurate methods for proximity detection based on Bluetooth LE received signal strength is likely to be challenging. We call for action in three areas. Firstly, measurements are needed that allow the added value of deployed apps within the overall contact tracing system to be evaluated, e.g. data on how many of the people notified by the app would not have been found by manual contact tracing and what fraction of people notified by an app actually test positive for Covid-19. Secondly, the 2m/15 minute proximity limit is only a rough guideline. The real requirement is to use handset sensing to evaluate infection risk and this requires a campaign to collect measurements of both handset sensor data and infection outcomes. Thirdly, a concerted effort is needed to collect controlled Bluetooth LE measurements in a wide range of real-world environments, the data reported here being only a first step in that direction.
An Advanced Microstructural and Electrochemical Datasheet on 18650 Li-Ion Batteries with Nickel-Rich NMC811 Cathodes and Graphite-Silicon Anodes
Authors: Heenan T. M. M. , Jnawali A. , Kok M. D. R. , Tranter T. G , Tan C. , Dimitrijevic A. , Jervis R. , Brett D. J. L. , Shearing P. R.
Published: October 2020

Cylindrical lithium-ion batteries are used across a wide range of applications from spacesuits to automotive vehicles. Specifically, many manufacturers are producing cells in the 18650 geometry i.e., a steel cylinder of diameter and length ca. 18 and 65 mm, respectively. One example is the LG Chem INR18650 MJ1 (nominal values: 3.5 Ah, 3.6 V, 12.6 Wh). This article describes the electrochemical performance and microstructural assembly of such cells, where all the under-pinning data is made openly available for the benefit of the wider community. The charge-discharge capacity is reported for 400 operational cycles via the manufacturer’s guidelines along with full-cell, individual electrode coating and particle 3D imaging. Within the electrochemical data, the distinction between protocol transition, beginning-of-life (BoL) capacity loss, and prolonged degradation is outlined and, subsequently, each aspect of the microstructural characterization is broken down into key metrics that may aid in understanding such degradation (e.g., electrode assembly layers, coating thickness, areal loading, particle size and shape). All key information is summarized in a quick-access advanced datasheet in order to provide an initial baseline of information to guide research paths, inform experiments and aid computational modellers.
Paracrine and autocrine control of insulin secretion in human islets: evidence and pending questions
Authors: Henquin Jean-Claude
Published: October 2020

Insulin secretion by β-cells is largely controlled by circulating nutrients, hormones, and neurotransmitters. However, recent years have witnessed the multiplication of studies investigating whether local regulation also takes place within pancreatic islets, in which β-cells cohabit with several other cell types. The cell composition and architectural organization of human islets differ from those of rodent islets and are particularly favorable to cellular interactions. An impressive number of hormonal (glucagon, glucagon-like peptide-1, somatostatin, etc.) and nonhormonal products (ATP, acetylcholine, γ-aminobutyric acid, dopamine, etc.) are released by islet cells and have been implicated in a local control of insulin secretion. This review analyzes reports directly testing paracrine and autocrine control of insulin secretion in isolated human islets. Many of these studies were designed on background information collected in rodent islets. However, the perspective of the review is not to highlight species similarities or specificities but to contrast established and speculative mechanisms in human islets. It will be shown that the current evidence is convincing only for a minority of candidates for a paracrine function whereas arguments supporting a physiological role of others do not stand up to scrutiny. Several pending questions await further investigation.
Multispectral Polarization State Analyzer of Scanning Polarimeter ScanPol
Authors: Syniavskyi Ivan , Oberemok Yevgen , Ivanov Yuriy , Sosonkin Mikhail
Published: October 2020

We present the results of the development of a representational model of the multispectral polarization state analyzer of the ScanPol scanning polarimeter for the space experiment Aerosol-UA. The aim of the Ukrainian space mission Aerosol-UA is to create a database based on continuous satellite measurements of the optical characteristics of aerosol and cloud particles in the Earth’s atmosphere over a long period of time. The ScanPol polarimeter is designed to acquire spatial, temporal, and spectral-polarimetric measurements simultaneously to minimize instrumental “parasitic” effects and effects of “false” polarizations due to scene movement. Simultaneity is provided by separation of the initial spatial field by a pair of conjugated telescopes and a pair of Wollaston prisms. ScanPol provides to measure the first three Stokes parameters I, Q, and U of the radiation reflected by atmospheric aerosols and the Earth’s surface for a six solar reflectance spectral bands in the near ultraviolet (NUV), visible (VIS), and near-infrared (NIR) spectral channels centered in the wavelengths 370 nm, 410 nm, 555 nm, 865 nm, 1378 nm, and 1620 nm. Stokes parameters I, Q, and U are used to determine a degree of linear polarization of radiation that will allow obtaining the phase function and polarization characteristics of aerosol particle scattering, estimate their size, and determine the aerosol type and optical thickness. The polarimeter optical layout is considered, and the spectral characteristics of the transmission of optical channels are given. Obtained signal-to-noise ratio exceeded 500 for wavelengths 370 nm and 410 nm and exceeded 1000 for other wavelengths. The design of the chosen photodetectors is based on surface mount type photodiodes: Si-photodiodes Hamamatsu S10356-01 for the optical range of 370–860 nm and InGaAs-photodiodes Hamamatsu G8941-011620 for wavelengths 1378 nm and 1620 nm. The effect of orientation of Wollaston prisms axes on polarization measurement error is considered. The errors of azimuth mount of Wollaston prisms ≤2 arcmin in ScanPol leads to error of degree of linear polarization ≤0.0012.
A Model-Driven Realization of AUV Controllers Based on the MDA/MBSE Approach
Authors: Hien Ngo Van , Truong Van-Thuan , Bui Ngoc-Tam
Published: October 2020

This paper introduces a model-driven control realization, which is based on the systems engineering concepts of the model-driven architecture (MDA)/model-based systems engineering (MBSE) approach combined with the real-time UML/SysML, extended/unscented Kalman filter (EKF/UKF) algorithms, and hybrid automata, in order to conveniently deploy controllers of autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs). This model also creates a real-time communication pattern, which can permit the designed components to be customizable and reusable in new application developments of different AUV types. The paper brings out stepwise adapted AUV dynamics for control that are then combined with the specialization of MDA/MBSE features as follows: the computation independent model (CIM) is defined by the specification of the use-case model together with hybrid automata to gather the requirement analysis for control; the platform-independent model (PIM) is then designed by specializing the real-time UML/SysML’s features including main control capsules that depict structures and behaviors of controllers in detail; and the detailed PIM is subsequently converted into the platform-specific model (PSM) by object-oriented platforms to rapidly implement the AUV controller. Based on this proposed model, a horizontal planar trajectory-tracking controller was deployed and tested that permits a miniature AUV possessing a torpedo shape to reach and follow the desired horizontal planar trajectory.
Study on the Gas Film Flow Field and its Influencing Factors at the Outlet of the Orifice of the Aerostatic Bearing
Authors: Lu Zhi-Wei , Zhang Jun-An , Liu Bo
Published: October 2020

In order to further explore and study the influencing factors and regulars of the gas film flow field at the outlet of the orifice of the aerostatic bearing, the large eddy simulation method was used to calculate the N-S equation in the calculation area of the gas film flow field at the outlet of the orifice of the aerostatic bearing, and the overrelaxation iteration method was used to solve the Reynolds equation in the other calculation areas, which was proposed in this paper. Based on the physical model of the outlet of the orifice of the aerostatic bearing, the solution area of the gas film flow field of the aerostatic bearing was solved, and the calculation results were analyzed and discussed. The results showed that there was a sharp drop of the gas film pressure at the outlet of the orifice of the aerostatic bearing and the separation of the gas film pressure

p

became inconsistent in the thickness direction of gas film clearance h. It was assumed that there was a critical ratio θ between the gas film clearance h and the orifice diameter d of the aerostatic bearing, and when the ratio of gas film clearance h to the orifice diameter d was greater than the critical ratio θ, various fluctuations of the gas film flow field began to appear, which may be the initial signal state of the gas film flow field of the aerostatic bearing starting to transition to turbulence. It provided a theoretical basis and guidance for further study of the transition lubrication mechanism between the laminar and the turbulent flow at the outlet of the orifice of the aerostatic bearing in this paper.
A Case of an 80-Year-Old Man with Empyema and Psoas Abscess
Authors: Sakurai Mikio , Nagasawa Hiroki , Takeuchi Ikuto , Yanagawa Youichi
Published: October 2020

An 80-year-old man with flu symptoms collapsed at his house and had a backache worsened over time. His family called for an ambulance. On arrival, chest X-ray showed reduced permeability of the right lung field, and truncal computed tomography (CT) suggested right multilobular empyema and right iliopsoas abscess. A blood test showed an acute inflammatory response. The patient underwent right small thoracotomy for empyema and ultrasonic-guided drainage for the right iliopsoas abscess and started the administration of antibiotics. We started the administration of doripenem by intravenous drip and then deescalated to ampicillin based on the culture results. Streptococcus intermedius was cultured from all sites. Following these treatments for three months, his general condition improved. We herein report a unique case of complicated empyema and iliopsoas abscess in which a favorable outcome was obtained by an appropriate diagnosis and treatment. Reports of multiple abscesses have been increasing recently because of the growing geriatric population and aging-related complications. It is important to search the whole body to detect multiple abscesses in cases where an abscess is detected at a single site.
Physiological Responses and Gene Expression in Ultrasound-Guided Supraclavicular Brachial Plexus Block: a Comparative Study
Authors: Sayyed Hayam G , Idriss Naglaa K. , Gaber Marwa A. , Sayed Sherif , Ahmed Rasha
Published: October 2020

Background/Aims: Ultrasound-guided supraclavicular brachial plexus block (BPB) has come into wider use as a regional anesthetic during upper limb operations. This study assessed the neurological and hemodynamic changes and gene expression after co-administration of midazolam or neostigmine with bupivacaine during supraclavicular BPB. Methods: The study involved 90 adults divided into three groups: control (bupivacaine), midazolam (bupivacaine plus midazolam), and neostigmine (bupivacaine plus neostigmine). Blood samples were taken and interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) mRNA levels were measured by real-time PCR, and oxidative stress markers were identified. In addition to the hemodynamic variables, the onset and duration of sensory and motor blockades, duration of analgesia, pain scores, time of first request for an analgesic, and amounts of analgesics ingested were evaluated. Results: Compared with the control and neostigmine groups, the midazolam group experienced longer sensory and motor blockades, prolonged analgesia, lower pain scores at 12 h and 24 h, and lower need for postoperative analgesics. Moreover, the midazolam group exhibited lower oxidative stress markers with a higher fold change in IL-6 and TNF-α mRNA levels. Conclusion: Midazolam co-administered with bupivacaine provided better analgesic quality than did neostigmine with bupivacaine. This might be due to its superior antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
Acute Kidney Disease Increases the Risk of Post-Kidney Biopsy Bleeding Complications
Authors: Xu Jing , Wu Xiaojing , Xu Yaowen , Ren Hong , Wang Weiming , Chen Weihong , Shen Pingyan , Li Xiao , Shi Hao , Xie Jingyuan , Chen Xiaonong , Zhang Wen , Pan Xiaoxia
Published: October 2020

Introduction: Kidney biopsy, providing the insightful information for most kidney diseases, is an invasive diagnostic tool with certain risks ranging from the least severe macroscopic hematuria to the most severe life-threatening bleeding necessitating renal artery embolization. We aimed to compare the postbiopsy bleeding complications between 2 common methods and to further explore the risk factors of bleeding complications in patients using the negative pressure suction puncture (NPS) method. Methods: We retrospectively collected the data from percutaneous native kidney biopsies in 2016. The clinical, laboratory tests, pathological findings, and the occurrence of bleeding complications following kidney biopsy were analyzed. The kidney biopsy was performed in our center by experienced nephrologists with 2 different methods, namely, NPS method and real-time ultrasound-guided needle (RTU) method. We compared rates of complications between 2 methods and evaluated univariate and multivariate association of risk factors with bleeding complications in the NPS group. Results: 626 kidney biopsies were performed between January 2016 and December 2016. There were 83.2% (521/626) participants in the NPS group and 16.8% (105/626) in the RTU group. There were more participants in the RTU group needing >1 needle pass during biopsy than those in the NPS group (61.0 vs. 14.7%, p < 0.001). Acute kidney disease (AKD) occurred before the procedure of kidney biopsy accounted for 13.8% (72/521) in the NPS group and 1.9% (2/105) in the RTU group. The renal pathological findings revealed higher number of glomeruli in the NPS group than in the RTU group (26.8 ± 13.0 vs. 17.2 ± 8.6, p < 0.001). The incidence of bleeding complications in the NPS group was lower than that in the RTU group (9.2 vs. 21.9%, p < 0.01). Logistic multivariate regression showed that AKD was independently associated with bleeding complications after kidney biopsy in the NPS group. Conclusion: Regarding the bleeding risk, there was noninferiority of NPS over RTU. AKD contributes to higher risks of bleeding complications after kidney biopsy.
The Glycemic Effect of Liraglutide Evaluated by Continuous Glucose Monitoring in Persons with Type 2 Diabetes Receiving Dialysis
Authors: Bomholt Tobias , Idorn Thomas , Knop Filip K. , Jørgensen Morten B. , Ranjan Ajenthen G. , Resuli Marsela , Hansen Pernille M. , Borg Rikke , Persson Frederik , Feldt-Rasmussen Bo , Hornum Mads
Published: October 2020

Aims: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of liraglutide treatment on glucose variability and the risk of hypoglycemia by continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) in persons with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and dialysis-dependent end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Materials and Methods: We assessed CGM data from a previous trial where 24 persons with T2D and dialysis-dependent ESRD were allocated (1:1) to 12 weeks of double-blinded treatment with liraglutide (titrated to maximum tolerable dose up to 1.8 mg) or placebo as an add-on to preexisting antidiabetic treatment. CGM (Ipro2®; Medtronic) was performed for up to 7 days at baseline and at weeks 2, 6, and 10. A linear mixed model was used to compare the 2 study arms. Results: A CGM was worn at baseline by 12 persons in the liraglutide group and 10 in the placebo group (7 and 9 completed week 10, respectively). Glycated hemoglobin A1c (p = 0.81) and glucose variability was similar between the groups (standard deviation, p = 0.33; coefficient of variation, p = 0.16). Comparing baseline and week 10, the number of hypoglycemic events (glucose values between <3.9 and 3.0 mmol/L) increased in the liraglutide group compared with the placebo group (p = 0.02). The occurrence of hypoglycemic events below 3.0 mmol/L was similar between the groups (p = 0.36). Conclusions: In the present cohort of persons with T2D and dialysis-dependent ESRD, liraglutide treatment increased the risk of hypoglycemic events as compared to placebo (no difference was found for hypoglycemic events below 3.0 mmol/L). The majority of participants were co-treated with insulin.
Risk Factors and Outcomes of Acute Kidney Injury in Critically Ill Patients with Coronavirus Disease 2019
Authors: Cheng Yichun , Zhang Nanhui , Luo Ran , Zhang Meng , Wang Zhixiang , Dong Lei , Li Junhua , Zeng Rui , Yao Ying , Ge Shuwang , Xu Gang
Published: October 2020

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has emerged as a major global health threat with a great number of deaths worldwide. Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common complication in patients admitted to the intensive care unit. We aimed to assess the incidence, risk factors and in-hospital outcomes of AKI in COVID-19 patients admitted to the intensive care unit. Methods: We conducted a retrospective observational study in the intensive care unit of Tongji Hospital, which was assigned responsibility for the treatments of severe COVID-19 patients by the Wuhan government. AKI was defined and staged based on Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) criteria. Mild AKI was defined as stage 1, and severe AKI was defined as stage 2 or stage 3. Logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate AKI risk factors, and Cox proportional hazards model was used to assess the association between AKI and in-hospital mortality. Results: A total of 119 patients with COVID-19 were included in our study. The median patient age was 70 years (interquartile range, 59–77) and 61.3% were male. Fifty-one (42.8%) patients developed AKI during hospitalization, corresponding to 14.3% in stage 1, 28.6% in stage 2 and 18.5% in stage 3, respectively. Compared to patients without AKI, patients with AKI had a higher proportion of mechanical ventilation mortality and higher in-hospital mortality. A total of 97.1% of patients with severe AKI received mechanical ventilation and in-hospital mortality was up to 79.4%. Severe AKI was independently associated with high in-hospital mortality (OR: 1.82; 95% CI: 1.06–3.13). Logistic regression analysis demonstrated that high serum interleukin-8 (OR: 4.21; 95% CI: 1.23–14.38), interleukin-10 (OR: 3.32; 95% CI: 1.04–10.59) and interleukin-2 receptor (OR: 4.50; 95% CI: 0.73–6.78) were risk factors for severe AKI development. Conclusions: Severe AKI was associated with high in-hospital mortality, and inflammatory response may play a role in AKI development in critically ill patients with COVID-19.
First distributional record of the Lesser Adjutant Leptoptilos javanicus Horsfield, 1821 (Ciconiiformes: Ciconiidae) from Sindhuli District, Nepal
Authors: Baral Badri , Bhandari Sudeep , Koirala Saroj , Bhandari Parashuram , Magar Ganesh , Dipak Raj Basnet  , Jeevan Rai  , Baral Hem Sagar
Published: October 2020

Information on the distribution of the Vulnerable Lesser Adjutant from Sindhuli District is scarce.  Here we report the investigation and observation a total of 12 individuals and two active nests of Lesser Adjutant in five different locations of Dudhauli and Kamalamai Municipality in Sindhuli, Nepal to reduce the information gap between Triyuga watershed, Siraha District and Chitwan.  Further systematic studies are recommended to find out the total population of the species.
Contribution to the macromycetes of West Bengal, India: 63–68
Authors: Saha Rituparna , Ray Debal , Roy Anirban , Acharya Krishnendu
Published: October 2020

West Bengal, a significant landmass of eastern India with its varied topography, edaphic, and climatic conditions facilitates diversified forest types and conducive microhabitats for a wide array of macro-fungal wealth and the members of Aphyllophorales in particular.  Detailed macro-microscopic characterizations and chemical reactions were performed to systematically identify the specimens using standard key and literatures.  Six members of Aphyllophorales collected from different parts of West Bengal, India and four species belonging to the family Polyporaceae [Hexagonia tenuis (Fr.) Fr., Polyporus arcularius (Batsch) Fr., P. tricholoma Mont. and Lenzites elegans (Spreng.) Pat.] were identified, and a single species was identified under Meripiliaceae [Physisporinus lineatus (Pers.) F. Wu, Jia J. Chen & Y.C. Dai] and Meruliaceae [Bjerkandera fumosa (Pers.) P. Karst.].  The detailed description along with field and herbarium photographs, macro-morphology, and microscopic features of six species are provided in this article.
Species diversity and feeding guilds of birds in Malaysian agarwood plantations
Authors: Mohd Jamil Nor Nasibah , Ibrahim Husni , Mohd Zain Haniza Hanim , Che Musa Nur Hidayat
Published: October 2020

In Malaysia, the current status of birds inhabiting agarwood Aquilaria malaccensis plantations has not been specifically studied, and little research has been conducted to investigate birds in other agricultural areas (e.g., rubber, acacia, and oil palm plantations) and disturbed areas.  This study was conducted to assess bird species richness and relative abundance, as well as feeding guilds, in two agarwood plantation sites: Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris in Tanjong Malim (UPSI), and Slim River (SR).  The presence of birds was recorded using a combination of techniques (mist-nets and point count), while various sources were used to compile feeding information.  This study recorded 364 birds from 36 species in 24 families.  Shannon diversity index (H’) values for the UPSI and SR sites were 2.896 and 2.492 respectively, indicating high bird diversity.  The Bray-Curtis index was 0.29, indicating these sites share few species.  Insectivorous and omnivorous birds were dominant in UPSI (31%), and omnivores at SR (32%).  The commonest insect order at both sites was Orthoptera (UPSI 48%, SR 25%).  While agarwood plantations are relatively homogeneous, they provide a variety of food sources and shelter for a wide range of birds.
Incursion of the killer sponge Terpios hoshinota Rützler & Muzik, 1993 on the coral reefs of the Lakshadweep archipelago, Arabian Sea
Authors: Das Rocktim Ramen , Chemmencheri Ramakrishnan Sreeraj  , Gopi Mohan  , Kottarathil Rajendran Abhilash  , Vijay Kumar Deepak Samuel  , Purvaja Ramachandran  , Ramesh Ramachandran
Published: October 2020

Our study documents the outbreak of a coral-killing sponge Terpios hoshinota in the coral reefs of Lakshadweep archipelago and highlights that it has further extended its territory into the isolated atolls of Arabian Sea and maybe a growing threat to the existing coral reefs in the region.
Evaluating performance of four species distribution models using Blue-tailed Green Darner Anax guttatus (Insecta: Odonata) as model organism from the Gangetic riparian zone
Authors: Kritish De  , S. Zeeshan Ali  , Dasgpta Niladri , Uniyal Virendra Prasad , Johnson Jeyaraj Antony , Hussain Syed Ainul
Published: October 2020

In this paper we evaluated the performance of four species distribution models: generalized linear (GLM), maximum entropy (MAXENT), random forest (RF) and support vector machines (SVM) model, using the distribution of the dragonfly Blue-tailed Green Darner Anax guttatus in the Gangetic riparian zone between Bijnor and Kanpur barrage, Uttar Pradesh, India.  We used forest cover type, land use, land cover and five bioclimatic variable layers: annual mean temperature, isothermality, temperature seasonality, mean temperature of driest quarter, and precipitation seasonality to build the models.  We found that the GLM generated the highest values for AUC, Kappa statistic, TSS, specificity and sensitivity, and the lowest values for omission error and commission error, while the MAXENT model generated the lowest variance in variable importance. We suggest that researchers should not rely on any single algorithm, instead, they should test performance of all available models for their species and area of interest, and choose the best one to build a species distribution model.
Description of a new species of Omyomymar Schauff from India with a key to Oriental species and first report of Palaeoneura markhoddlei Triapitsyn (Hymenoptera: Mymaridae) from the Indian subcontinent
Authors: H. Sankararaman  , S. Manickavasagam
Published: October 2020

Abstract: Omyomymar hayati sp. nov. (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea: Mymaridae) is described from Tamil Nadu, India and key to Oriental species of Omyomymar is updated.  Palaeoneura markhoddlei Triapitsyn, is reported from Indian subcontinent for the first time and key to Indian species is updated.  The following known species, viz., Acmopolynema incognitum (Narayanan, Rao & Kaur), Platystethynium glabrum Jin & Li, Polynema (Polynema) bengalense Rehmat & Anis and Palaeoneura vegis Amer & Zeya are recorded from the Indian states of Rajasthan, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu, respectively.
Association of Metabolic Surgery With Major Adverse Cardiovascular Outcomes in Patients With Previous Myocardial Infarction and Severe Obesity
Authors: Näslund Erik , Stenberg Erik , Hofmann Robin , Ottosson Johan , Sundbom Magnus , Marsk Richard , Svensson Per , Szummer Karolina , Jernberg Tomas
Published: October 2020

Background:

The number of patients with myocardial infarction and severe obesity is increasing and there is a lack of evidence how these patients should be treated. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between metabolic surgery (Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy) and major adverse cardiovascular events in patients with previous myocardial infarction (MI) and severe obesity.

Methods:

Of 566 patients with previous MI registered in the SWEDEHEART registry (Swedish Web-System for Enhancement and Development of Evidence-Based Care in Heart Disease Evaluated According to Recommended Therapies) undergoing metabolic surgery and registered in the nationwide Scandinavian Obesity Surgery Registry, 509 patients (Roux-en-Y gastric bypass n=465; sleeve gastrectomy n=44) could be matched 1:1 to a control with MI from SWEDEHEART, but no subsequent metabolic surgery regarding sex, age (±3 years), year of MI (±3 years), and body mass index (±3). The 2 groups were well matched, except for a lower proportion of reduced ejection fraction after MI (7% versus 12%), previous heart failure (10% versus 19%), atrial fibrillation (6% versus 10%), and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (4% versus 7%) in patients undergoing metabolic surgery.

Results:

The median (interquartile range) follow-up time was 4.6 (2.7–7.1) years. The 8-year cumulative probability of major adverse cardiovascular events was lower in patients undergoing metabolic surgery (18.7% [95% CI, 15.9–21.5%] versus 36.2% [33.2–39.3%], adjusted hazard ratio, 0.44 [95% CI, 0.32–0.61]). Patients undergoing metabolic surgery had also a lower risk of death (adjusted HR, 0.45 [95% CI, 0.29–0.70]; MI, 0.24 [0.14–0.41]) and new onset heart failure, but there were no significant differences regarding stroke (0.91 [0.38–2.20]) and new onset atrial fibrillation (0.56 [0.31–1.01]).

Conclusions:

In severely obese patients with previous MI, metabolic surgery is associated with a low risk for serious complications, lower risk of major adverse cardiovascular events, death, new MI, and new onset heart failure. These findings need to be confirmed in a randomized, controlled trial.
FGF12 (Fibroblast Growth Factor 12) Inhibits Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Remodeling in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Authors: Yeo Yeongju , Yi Eunhee S. , Kim Jeong-Min , Jo Eun-Kyung , Seo Songyi , Kim Ryul-I , Kim Koung Li , Sung Jong-Hyuk , Park Sang Gyu , Suh Wonhee
Published: October 2020

Loss of BMP (bone morphogenic protein) signaling induces a phenotype switch of pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells (PASMCs), which is the pathological basis of pulmonary vascular remodeling in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Here, we identified FGF12 (fibroblast growth factor 12) as a novel regulator of the BMP-induced phenotype change in PASMCs and elucidated its role in pulmonary vascular remodeling during PAH development. Using murine models of PAH and lung specimens of patients with PAH, we observed that FGF12 expression was significantly reduced in PASMCs. In human PASMCs, FGF12 expression was increased by canonical BMP signaling.
FGF12
knockdown blocked the antiproliferative and prodifferentiation effect of BMP on human PASMCs, suggesting that FGF12 is required for the BMP-mediated acquisition of the quiescent and differentiated PASMC phenotype. Mechanistically, FGF12 regulated the BMP-induced phenotype change by inducing MEF2a (myocyte enhancer factor 2a) phosphorylation via p38MAPK signaling, thereby modulating the expression of MEF2a target genes involved in cell proliferation and differentiation. Furthermore, we observed that TG (transgenic) mice with smooth muscle cell–specific
FGF12
overexpression were protected from chronic hypoxia–induced PAH development, pulmonary vascular remodeling, and right ventricular hypertrophy. Consistent with the in vitro data using human PASMCs,
FGF12
TG mice showed increased MEF2a phosphorylation and a substantial change in MEF2a target gene expression, compared with the WT (wild type) controls. Overall, our findings demonstrate a novel BMP/FGF12/MEF2a pathway regulating the PASMC phenotype switch and suggest FGF12 as a potential target for the development of therapeutics for ameliorating pulmonary vascular remodeling in PAH.
Influence of Weather Conditions on Particulate Matter Suspension following the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull Volcanic Eruption
Authors: Butwin Mary K. , von Löwis Sibylle , Pfeffer Melissa A. , Dagsson-Waldhauserova Pavla , Thorsson Johann , Thorsteinsson Throstur
Published: October 2020

The 2010 eruption of Eyjafjallajökull produced volcanic ash that was mostly deposited to the south and east of the volcano, with the thickest deposits closest to the eruption vents. For months following the eruption there were numerous reports of resuspended volcanic ash made by weather observers on the ground. A saltation sensor (SENSIT) and an optical particle counter (OPC) located on the southern side of Eyjafjallajökull measured posteruptive particulate matter (PM) saltation and suspension events, some of which were also observable by satellite imagery. During the autumn/winter following the eruption, visible satellite images and the SENSIT show that PM measured by the OPC was only detected when winds had a northerly component, making the source on the slopes of Eyjafjallajökull. During the largest observed events, particles >10μm were suspended but measured in extremely low concentrations (<1 particle per centimeter cubed). The saltation measurements, however, show high concentrations of particles >100μm in size during these events. During the largest events, winds were at least 5 m s−1with a relative humidity < 70%. Ground conditions in Iceland change quickly from unfavorable to favorable for the suspension of particles. It is hypothesized that this is due to the porosity of the surface material allowing water to filter through quickly as well as the fast drying time of surface material. The high moisture content of the atmosphere and the ground do not appear to be a deterrent for large PM events to occur in Iceland.