bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Side-polished fiber sensor for measurement of the color concentration in lubricant products
Authors: Yunardi RT , Akbar AS , Sukmayani I , Supadi  , A’yun Qurrotul , Apsari R
Published: June 2020

Color concentration is a key parameter to mark lubricant product specifications. Lubricant color does not necessarily indicate product quality, but the grade’s color range can indicate possible contamination by another product. This study aims to design a side-polished fiber to measure color concentration in lubricants. The sensor is obtained by stripping the cladding of 1 mm polymer optical fiber. The side-polished fiber weaken light intensity due to the absorptive properties of color concentrate for visible light. The light source in this study is tri-color LED and the OPT101 as a light detector. Light passing through the fiber is converted by the detector into a voltage output. The results showed that the sensor is capable of detecting the concentration of color with measurement ranging from 10 mg/L to 200 mg/L. The output voltage of sensor’s sensitivity is up to 0.039 (mg/L)/mV, 0.042 (mg/L)/mV and 0.047 (mg/L)/mV for the red, green and blue light sources respectively. The average linear correlation is 97.3 % in liquid lubricants. The designed sensor could be applied in ASTM D-1500 for color scale measurement of lubricant oil products.
Thermally and optically functionalized titania nanoparticles for pH sensing
Authors: Islam Shumaila , Bakhtiar Hazri , Hani Jameela Binti Sapingi Husni
Published: June 2020

Owing to the sensing applications, titania nanoparticles (TNPs) are synthesized by sol-gel route at low temperature (80 °C). For pH sensing response, four different pH dyes (phenol red, bromophenol blue, cresol red, and phenolphthalein) mixture is immobilized within TNPs. Thermal and structural behaviour of synthesized TNPs is observed by Thermo-gravimetric analysis (TGA), Fourier transmission infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). Thermally stable co-dyes immobilized TNPs confirms void-free surface morphology with heterogeneous chemical bonding. Furthermore, prepared sensing device has linear response with determination coefficient (R2) ∼ 0.97 and sensitivity is calculated as ∼154 I/pH at 431 nm. The response is optimized at pH 11.
Europium Doped Magnesium Zinc Sulfophosphate Glass as Potential Red Laser Host
Authors: Danmallam I M , Bhaktiar H , Ariffin R , Bulus I , Ghoshal S K
Published: June 2020

Demand for rare earth ions (REIs) doped inorganic glasses have been ever-increasing for diverse photonic applications. Synthesis of these glasses needs the appropriate choice of suitable host matrices, modifiers, and REIs as dopants to improve their spectroscopic traits. In this realization, a new series of magnesium-zinc-sulfophosphate glasses were prepared with varied europium ions (Eu3+) doping contents (0 to 2.0 mol%). Such melt-quench synthesized glasses were characterized at room temperature by diverse analytical techniques to determine their physical and optical properties. XRD pattern of as-quenched samples confirmed their amorphous nature. Densities of the glass system were observed to increase from 2.540 to 2.788 g.cm−3 with the increase in Eu3+ doping contents from 0 to 2.0 mol% which were attributed to the generation of more bridging oxygen atoms and enhanced network compactness. Photoluminescence (PL) emission spectra of glasses exhibited four characteristic peaks positioned at 593, 613, 654 and 701 nm assigned to corresponding 5D0→7F0, 5D0→7F2, 5D0→7F3, and 5D0→7F4 transitions in Eu3+, in which the intensity of the peak at 613 nm (red) was highest. Emission intensities of all peaks were enhanced with the rise in Eu3+ content up to 1.5 mol% and quenched thereafter. It was affirmed that the physical and optical traits of these glass compositions can be improved by adjusting the Eu3+ doping contents. The proposed glass compositions may be potential for the development of varied photonic devices especially for eye safe solid-state red laser and fibre sensors.
The effect of fbg grating lengths for temperature sensing
Authors: Sahidan N S , Salim M A M , Osman S S , Bakhtiar H , Bidin N , Krishnan G , Othman M H D , Rahman M A , Ismail A F , Yahya N
Published: June 2020

In this work, we have successfully fabricated the fiber Bragg grating (FBG) with 1 cm and 3 cm grating length, respectively. The different grating length fabricated by adjusting the slit aperture in order to control UV light transmission while inscribing on the single mode fiber. Then the FBG was demonstrated through different grating length over temperature sensor to determine the differences for temperature sensing. The range for temperature The measured sensitivity of 1 cm and 3 cm grating length is 0.0103 nm/°C and 0.0132 nm/°C respectively at the same value of applied temperature. As a results, the shorter grating length, 1 cm has higher sensitivity response compared to 3 cm grating length over temperature sensing.
Nonadiabatic Tapered Optical Fiber with GO/PVA Nanostructured Sensitive Coating for Humidity Sensing Application
Authors: Syuhada Aneez , Daud S. , Aziz M.S.
Published: June 2020

A non-adiabatic tapered fiber sensor coated with humidity-sensitive graphene oxide (GO)/Poly (vinyl) alcohol (PVA) nanocomposite film for humidity sensing application was proposed. GO/PVA film was deposited onto the tapered region by dip-coating technique. The surface morphology of the coating film was characterized through Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM). When exposed to percent relative humidity (RH) ranging from 20 to 99.9 % RH, the sensor exhibited sensitivity for both untapered and tapered fibers at −0.00132 ± 0.00043 a. u (%)−1 and 0.00106 ± 0.00008 a. u (%)−1, respectively. The contribution of GO/PVA composite film in enhancing sensor sensitivity was proven, which was 0.00624 ± 0.00033 a. u (%)−1 with percentage of sensitivity boosting up to 15.86 % when compare to the uncoated ones.
Performance of Single Mode Tapered Optical Fiber Sensor Based on Localized Surface Plasmon Resonance (LSPR) for Various Coating Time
Authors: Musa Nurfatin , Safwan Abd Aziz Muhammad , Bakhtiar Hazri , Krishnan Ganesan , Hafiz Dzafran Othman Mohd , Rahman Mukhlis A , Fauzi Ismail Ahmad
Published: June 2020

Tapered optical fiber (TOF) sensor based on localized surface plasmon resonance is demonstrated for refractive index sensing application. The single-mode fiber (G652D) with 10/125 µm of core/core-cladding diameter was tapered by flame brushing method and achieved a waist diameter of approximately 15µm. Mercapto group (-SH) of 3-mercatoptopropyltrimethoxysilane (MPTMS) was utilized for immobilization of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) by self-assemble monolayer (SAM) method on fiber surface. Evanescent field at the TOF sensing region excites the localized surface plasmons of AuNPs, with average mean diameter 15 ± 2 nm as evidence by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The effect on deposition time was examined on three different samples; S1, S2 and S3 with 24h, 48h and 72h of coating time respectively. TOF sensor performance was evaluated with surrounding refractive indices ranges from 1.3324 to 1.4254. The sensing mechanism is based on the modulation of output light signal that represent by transmission shifting spectra. The optimum sensitivity was obtained for S2 at 18 nm/RIU with good repeatability, reversibility and stability.
Effect of PVC additives on the electrical resistivity of NBR
Authors: Al-Mosawi Ali I. , Marossy Kálmán , Gömze László , Al-maamori Mohammed H.
Published: June 2020

The effect of PVC additives (30, 50, 70 wt.%) on the electrical resistivity of the NBR at different voltages (1, 2.5, 5)kV was studied in this paper. The results obtained showed an increase in electrical resistance with increased PVC content. Interestingly, a voltage, i.e. electric field dependence was also observed. The field dependence is the highest in case of lowest test voltage (1kV).
Rheological characterization of PVC corncob composites. Effect of molecule weight of PVC
Authors: Román Krisztina , Szabó Tamás J , Marossy Kálmán
Published: June 2020

The flow behaviors of different poly (vinyl chloride) and corncob flour composite were characterized using a Göttfert 20 extrusion rheometer. The rheological characterization includes extrusion experiments at different temperatures and screw speeds. By evaluation of flow rate and die pressure the flow properties and the activation energy of the flow can be determined. This also provides insight into the internal structure/organization of the prepared composite and gives information about process ability and processing window parameters. The flow of the melt is mostly determined by the molecular weight of the polymer but for PVC the higher organization of the polymer as tertiary and quaternary structures have also a significant effect. Moreover, the molecular weight affects not only the viscosity but also the relaxation times. This flow behavior of the polymer has changed significantly by shearing time and thermal history of the materials. PVC composites compounded from raw PVC powder of various K–values (molecule weight) were prepared and examined via a complete rheological analysis. The PVC composite’s morphology mostly depends on the concentration of the components, the material matrix and the corncob additive. The viscosity of the composites, the Rabinovich exponent, and flow-viscosity curves were determined in this paper. The results of the rheological tests can help us to make comprehensive conclusion about the composite structures, processing possibilities and applicability.
Autowave process of plastic flow localization
Authors: Zuev L B , Barannikova S A , Zharmukhambetova A M
Published: June 2020

The localized plasticity development was studied for a wide range of pure metals and alloys in single-crystal and polycrystalline state as well as nonmetallic materials, alkaline halide crystals, ceramics and rocks. Using photographic and digital versions of speckle photography, the localization of plastic flow in the test samples was investigated on specially designed units having high spatial and temporal resolution. According to the analysis given here, the different stages of plastic flow are related both qualitatively and quantitatively.
Optical properties of Si nanocrystals in SiO2 matrix synthesized by reactive pulsed laser deposition
Authors: Iwayama Tsutomu , Ogihara Ken
Published: June 2020

Si ion implantation into SiO2 is widely used to synthesize specimens of SiO2 containing supersaturated Si. We also prepared specimens of supersaturated Si in SiO2 by reactive pulsed laser deposition (PLD) in an oxygen atmosphere. After high temperature annealing of these specimens induces the formation of embedded luminescent Si nanocrystals in SiO2. In this work, the potentialities of excimer UV-light (172 nm, 7.2 eV) irradiation and rapid thermal annealing (RTA) to enhance the photoluminescence and to achieve low temperature formation of Si nanocrystals have been investigated. The Si ions were introduced at acceleration energy of 180 keV to fluence of 7.5 x 1016 ions/cm2. We also prepared Si nanocrystals embedded in a SiO2 by reactive pulsed laser deposition (PLD) in an oxygen atmosphere by using conventional PLD system with 2nd-harmonic YAG laser (532 nm, 10 Hz, 80 J/cm2) under controlled low oxygen pressure. Samples were subsequently irradiated with an excimer-UV lamp. After the process, the samples were rapidly thermal annealed before furnace annealing (FA). Photoluminescence spectra were measured at various stages at the process. We found that the luminescence intensity is enhanced with excimer-UV irradiation and RTA. Moreover, effective visible photoluminescence is found to be observed even after FA below the annealing temperature at 1000 °C, only for specimens treated with excimer-UV lamp and RTA. We will make clear the similarities of photoluminescence with the way of preparation techniques.
Investigation of the rubber elasticity and properties of polyurethane elastomers with different silicon carbide contents
Authors: Somdee P , Lassú-Kuknyó T , Kónya C , Ibrahim J F M , Marossy K
Published: June 2020

Silicon carbide (SiC) powder was added to a polyurethane elastomer (PUR) to produce the composites. PUR was synthesized by mixing polyether polyol (PETP, Mw = 6000 g/mol) and 4,4′diphenylmethane diisocyanate. The stress-strain curves were carried out to estimate the effect of SiC on rubber elastic behaviour of PUR composites. As SiC content increases, the rubber elasticity region is noticeably decreased which can clearly be seen in the stress-strain curve, this could be attributed to the distribution of the SiC particles in the PUR matrix which prevents the cross-linking chain mobility of PUR and therefore affects the deformation while stretching. Furthermore, the decrease in the elongation at break is also co-related to the SiC content which hindrance the molecular mobility of the PUR chain. Shore A and D hardness increase by increasing SiC content up to 88 Shore A and 37 Shore D at 30 wt.% SiC. This is mainly due to the addition of SiC particles which act as active fillers in PUR matrix. The tensile strength and Young’s modulus are slightly increased when SiC content was increased. These observations support that Sick particles act as reinforcement which is active fillers and affect the stiffness in the elastic deformation of PUR.
Production of lightweight geopolymer concrete
Authors: Udvardi Bella , Hamza Alexandra , Kurovics Emese , Kocserha István , Géber Róbert , Simon Andrea
Published: June 2020

Lightweight concrete has been known all around the world for decades. As a masonry material, there is an advantage: it has sufficient mechanical strength despite of its light weight. This research focuses on the production of recycled concrete based lightweight geopolymer concrete samples using glass foam aggregates. During the research geopolymer and concrete samples were made and finally their properties were investigated and compared. In the research work an alkaline silicate reaction (ASR) was also studied on the glass foam lightweight aggregates, which is very important for concrete failure. Material structural and morphological tests were obtained by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to characterize the geopolymer concrete samples. Compressive strength of lightweight concrete and lightweight geopolymer was determined at the age of 7 days. Glass foam is suitable for use as a lightweight aggregates for workability. Based on the 7 days compressive strength results no crust typical of the ASR reaction was detected on the surface of the mixtures.
Nonlinear relativistic electron Thomson Scattering for laser radiation with orbital angular momentum
Authors: Pastor I , Álvarez-Estrada R F , Roso L , Castejón F , Guasp J
Published: June 2020

The classical nonlinear incoherent Thomson Scattering (TS) power spectrum from free relativistic electrons moving in a laser beam with orbital angular momentum (OAM) is investigated. The main focus in this paper is on the TS process as a diagnostic technique for this type of beams. Linearly polarized incoming radiation and electrons of very low initial kinetic energy are considered. Averaged spectra from electrons randomly covering the transverse laser pattern have different shape in the case of a beam with OAM as compared with the TEM00 case (with vanishing net OAM). Hence, spectrally resolved measurements are needed to discriminate between both cases. If electrons are distributed over the laser spot as thin stripes at a given angle with respect to the polarization direction, computations show non-trivial angular dependencies of integrated power of a laser with OAM as compared with the TEM00 mode. An experimental test of the OAM state of a laser beam is proposed based on these results. The numerical code developed is general enough to deal with more complex polarization states of the laser beam and/or electrons having arbitrary initial kinetic energies.
Interaction of xanthan gums with galacto- and glucomannans. part I: molecular interactions and synergism in cold gelled systems
Authors: Schreiber Christine , Ghebremedhin Marta , Zielbauer Birgitta , Dietz Natalie , Vilgis Thomas A
Published: June 2020

Several studies have investigated xanthan-guar gum (XG-GG), xanthan-locust bean gum (XG-LBG), and xanthan-konjac glucomannan (XG-KGM) blends but little attention has been paid to the physical interactions between the hydrocolloids on a molecular basis. This requires a consistent sample preparation. Often, LBG is heated up to dissolve completely and then xanthan is added, whereas mixtures with guar gum are prepared at room temperature. To understand the synergy during gelation it is necessary to investigate the xanthan-hydrocolloid solutions in the non-heated state because it sets and controls the preferred initial conditions for the given interactions by chain stiffness, charge and polarity under different concentrations

In this first part of the publication we focused on blends which are all prepared at room temperature and analysed the molecular interaction in these cold mixed systems. Regarding this, we used Rheology and AFM measurements to characterise the single molecules and the mixing behavior and synergism of the blends. We found, that the cold mixed systems are not stable at room temperature and show a phase separation after one and two days, according to the sample, but are stable when stored at 4 °C. Further, these mixing and demixing properties are highly corresponding to the synergism. Blends with xanthan-guar gum with the weakest mixing properties show the weakest synergism, whereas xanthan-konjac blends with a good mixing behavior exhibit the highest synergism. From the AFM micrographs it was observed that XG-KGM gave most homogeneous mixtures, whereas XG-LBG and XG-GG showed strong phase separation. Based on our experimental results and the characteristics of the molecules such as molecular size, shape and side chains we propose molecular models to explain the physical interactions in these systems which are supported by atomic force microscopy.
Highlights of Antibody Engineering and Therapeutics 2019 in San Diego, USA: Bispecific Antibody Design and Clinical Applications
Authors: Zhu Yong , Shen Run , Hao Rui , Wang Shouye , Ho Mitchell
Published: June 2020

Although there are only two bispecific antibody (bsAb) drugs in the market, around 100 bsAb drug candidates are in clinical development. bsAbs have gained fast growing investment and attractions from the biopharmaceutical industry and academia in recent years. Antibody Engineering and Therapeutics 2019 (AET 2019) was held in San Diego, USA, from 9 to 13 December 2019. This year’s AET certainly reflected the trend. In this report, we selected 11 presentations from AET 2019 to highlight bsAbs’ design and their potentials in cancer therapy. These presentations have discussed emerging strategies to improve bispecific antibody drugs in efficacy, safety and production. As compared to CAR-Ts, some T cell-redirecting bsAbs may potentially achieve comparable efficacies with less side effects and toxicities, as evidenced with both preclinical and clinical data reviewed at the conference. Several approaches to reduce T cell engagers’ toxicities including conditionally active bsAbs and IgM-based bsAbs were also presented and discussed at the conference. For the first time, The Antibody Society and the Chinese Antibody Society jointly held a special session at the AET.
Breast Reduction in Adults: Identifying Risk Factors for Overall 30-Day Postoperative Complications
Authors: Aravind Pathik , Siotos Charalampos , Bernatowicz Elizabeth , Cooney Carisa M , Rosson Gedge D
Published: June 2020

Background

Breast reduction is a commonly performed procedure. Understanding the postoperative complication profile is important for preoperative planning and patient education.

Objectives

The authors sought to assess complication rates following breast reduction in females and identify potential risk factors.

Methods

We assessed the records of the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program participant use files that include patients who underwent breast reduction for macromastia between 2005 and 2016. Relevant patient and postoperative data were extracted, and factors affecting complications were analyzed utilizing the logistic regression model.

Results

We identified 20,001 women aged a mean 43.9 years who underwent breast reduction. The number of patients who developed ≥1 complication was 1009 (4.3%). Our adjusted analysis revealed that outpatient setting (odds ratio [OR] = 0.600) and performance of the surgery by the attending surgeon alone (OR = 0.678) were associated with lower odds, whereas higher body mass index (OR = 1.046) and smoking (OR = 1.518) were associated with higher odds for complications following breast reduction. Outpatient setting (OR = 0.317) was also associated with lower odds whereas smoking (OR = 1.613) and American Society of Anesthesiologists class were associated with higher odds of returning to the operative room. These findings were consistent in our subgroup analysis for wound-related complications.

Conclusions

Our study shows that patient characteristics such as smoking and body mass index may increase complication rates after breast reduction. Clinical factors such as inpatient setting may also increase risk of complications following breast reduction. It is critical to understand the effect of these factors to better predict postoperative outcomes and ensure thorough patient education.
Improving the Female Silhouette and Gluteal Projection: An Anatomy-Based, Safe, and Harmonious Approach Through Liposuction, Suspension Loops, and Moderate Lipofilling
Authors: Abboud Marwan , Geeroms Maxim , El Hajj Hiba , Abboud Nicolas
Published: June 2020

Background

Liposuction is the main technique to improve body contour, emphasize appealing curves, and highlight one’s muscular definition. The number of procedures in which the harvested fat is utilized for gluteal augmentation has greatly increased.

Objectives

The authors aim to demonstrate their technique in order to obtain a sculpted harmonious body through a safe procedure, as well as review their 101 consecutive cases between 2014 and 2018.

Methods

Anatomical guidelines and preoperative markings were provided to guide the 3-step procedure: zones of maximal and mild liposuction, barbed wire suspension, and moderate fat grafting. Novel concepts are introduced as the anterior body diagonal, posterior body diagonal as well as other specific axes the pubic unit, and a vertical ratio for the buttock, which are the basic foundations for sculpting the female body into a pleasing hourglass shape with a well projected buttock. Recommendations for location of sacral diamond, sacral dimples, and the maximally projected point of the buttock are given. The authors explain their philosophy through 4 principles: knowledge of anatomy, the relationship between specific body areas and surrounding zones, a balanced gluteal augmentation is not achieved through large volume fat grafting alone, and grafting in the subcutaneous layer.

Results

A total of 101 patients were treated following the described technique and examples are shown. The complication rate was low. No serious adverse effects were recorded apart from 1 ruptured suspension loop.

Conclusions

The described anatomy-based approach, including liposuction, suspension loops, and fat grafting, is a novel and safe technique leading to a desirable, long-lasting outcome.

Level of Evidence: 4
A Randomized, Blinded, Prospective Clinical Study Comparing Small-Particle Versus Cohesive Polydensified Matrix Hyaluronic Acid Fillers for the Treatment of Perioral Rhytids
Authors: Polacco Marc A , Singleton Adam E , Luu Teresa , Maas Corey S
Published: June 2020

Background

Perioral rhytids are a bothersome sign of aging for many patients. Although multiple treatments exist, choosing an optimal modality may be difficult considering that rhytids in this region are fine and the anatomy dynamic.

Objectives

The authors sought to compare the efficacy and safety as well as patient satisfaction of a small-particle hyaluronic acid filler with 0.3% lidocaine (SP-HAL, Restylane Silk) and cohesive polydensified matrix hyaluronic acid filler (CPM-HA, Belotero Balance) in reducing superficial perioral rhytids.

Methods

The study was double-blinded, and 48 patients with moderate to severe superficial perioral rhytids were enrolled. Patients were randomized to receive either CPM-HA in the left perioral region and SPHAL in the right or vice versa. Rhytid severity was measured by patients utilizing a linear analog scale, and by investigators utilizing a validated 5-point scale, for 180 days following treatment.

Results

Both SP-HAL and CPM-HA achieved a reduction in rhytid severity, and neither treatment group returned to baseline after 180 days. Investigator-reported scores for rhytid severity were significantly better for SP-HAL than CPM-HA and remained so at 180 days (P < .05). SP-HAL also proved significantly better for reducing rhytids according to patient scores, although this difference occurred between 120 and 180 days only. Adverse events included rash and mild acne for CPM-HA, and SP-HAL was associated with 1 postinflammatory nodule and 2 occurrences of Tyndall effect.

Conclusions

Although both SP-HAL and CPM-HA are effective at reducing perioral rhytid severity and have similar safety profiles, SP-HAL possesses a longer duration of effect.

Level of Evidence: 2
Practice Management Knowledge Amongst Plastic Surgery Residents in Canada: A National Survey
Authors: Al-Shaqsi Sultan , Hong Brian , Austin Ryan E , Wanzel Kyle
Published: June 2020

Business and practice management principles are critical components of healthcare provision. Business and practice management is currently undertaught in plastic surgery training programs. The objective was to assess the status of business and practice management teaching amongst plastic surgery programs in Canada. An online survey of all enrolled plastic surgery residents was conducted in 2019 to 2020. Participants were invited to rate their knowledge and confidence about core principles in business and practice management. Sixty-five out of 126 residents responded to this survey (response rate, 51.6%). Only 7.8% of participants had previous business and practice management training; 23.1% reported receiving training in business and practice management during their residency. Participants reported a low level of knowledge and confidence in business and practice management (average Likert score between 3 and 4). Participants reported a high desire for future training in business and practice management particularly in billing and coding (91.2%) and business operations (91.2%). Plastic surgery residents in Canada reported a low level of knowledge and confidence about business and practice management. They desire the inclusion of business and practice management training in future curriculum.
Magnetic Graphene Dispersive Solid-Phase Extraction for the Determination of Phthalic Acid Esters in Flavoring Essences by Gas Chromatography Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Zhu Jing , Lu Binglin , Liu Shanshan , Xu Aifei , Tang Guifang , Chen Zhiyan , Pan Yuling , Tang Gangling , Yang Fei , Zhou Yun
Published: June 2020

In the present study, a sensitive, efficient and repeatable method for the simultaneous extraction and determination of 13 types of phthalic acid esters (PAEs) in flavoring essence samples using magnetic graphene solid-phase extraction coupled with gas chromatography tandem mass spectrometry was developed. Due to the unique structure of magnetic graphene, it has several advantages, such as large surface area and fast separation ability. This unique structure not only provided strong magnetic responsiveness for the separation but also prevented the self-aggregation of graphene. The large delocalized p-electron system of graphene can form strong π-stacking interactions with the benzene ring. Thus, graphene may be also a good candidate adsorbent for the adsorption of benzenoid-form compounds. Several magnetic soild-phase extraction parameters, such as elution solvents, amounts of sorbents, enrichment time and desorption time were optimized. The optimized procedures for this method were performed by ultrasonication using ethyl acetate as elution solvent for 5 min. Under the optimal conditions, the developed method provided spiked recoveries of 75.0–105.3% with relative standard deviations of ~5.6% and limits of detection were 0.011–0.091 mg/kg. Good linear relationships were observed with the coefficient of determination (R2) > 0.993 for all the analytes. Finally, the validated method was successfully applied to the analysis of PAEs in real samples.
Rare loss-of-function mutations of PTGIR are enriched in fibromuscular dysplasia
Authors: Georges Adrien , Albuisson Juliette , Berrandou Takiy , Dupré Délia , Lorthioir Aurélien , D’Escamard Valentina , Di Narzo Antonio F , Kadian-Dodov Daniella , Olin Jeffrey W , Warchol-Celinska Ewa , Prejbisz Aleksander , Januszewicz Andrzej , Bruneval Patrick , Baranowska Anna A , Webb Tom R , Hamby Stephen E , Samani Nilesh J , Adlam David , Fendrikova-Mahlay Natalia , Hazen Stanley , Wang Yu , Yang Min-Lee , Hunker Kristina , Combaret Nicolas , Motreff Pascal , Chédid Antoine , Fiquet Béatrice , Plouin Pierre-François , Mousseaux Elie , Azarine Arshid , Amar Laurence , Azizi Michel , Gornik Heather L , Ganesh Santhi K , Kovacic Jason C , Jeunemaitre Xavier , Bouatia-Naji Nabila
Published: June 2020

Aims

Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) and spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) are related, non-atherosclerotic arterial diseases mainly affecting middle-aged women. Little is known about their physiopathological mechanisms. We aimed to identify rare genetic causes to elucidate molecular mechanisms implicated in FMD and SCAD.

Methods and results

We analysed 29 exomes that included familial and sporadic FMD. We identified one rare loss-of-function variant (LoF) (frequencygnomAD = 0.000075) shared by two FMD sisters in the prostaglandin I2 receptor gene (PTGIR), a key player in vascular remodelling. Follow-up was conducted by targeted or Sanger sequencing (1071 FMD and 363 SCAD patients) or lookups in exome (264 FMD) or genome sequences (480 SCAD), all independent and unrelated. It revealed four additional LoF allele carriers, in addition to several rare missense variants, among FMD patients, and two LoF allele carriers among SCAD patients, including one carrying a rare splicing mutation (c.768 + 1C>G). We used burden test to test for enrichment in patients compared to gnomAD controls, which detected a putative enrichment in FMD (PTRAPD = 8 × 10−4), but not a significant enrichment (PTRAPD = 0.12) in SCAD. The biological effects of variants on human prostaclycin receptor (hIP) signalling and protein expression were characterized using transient overexpression in human cells. We confirmed the LoFs (Q163X and P17RfsX6) and one missense (L67P), identified in one FMD and one SCAD patient, to severely impair hIP function in vitro.

Conclusions

Our study shows that rare genetic mutations in PTGIR are enriched among FMD patients and found in SCAD patients, suggesting a role for prostacyclin signalling in non-atherosclerotic stenosis and dissection.
Sudden cardiac arrest of a 16-year-old boy with left main coronary artery atresia: a case report
Authors: Tomura Nobunari , Nakagami Takuo , Yamaguchi Shinichiro , Yaku Hitoshi , Patel Peysh A
Published: June 2020

Background

In many cases, the cause of exercise-induced cardiopulmonary arrest in young persons is thought to be fatal arrhythmia, and one of the causes is ischaemic heart disease. Left main coronary artery atresia (LMCAA) is an extremely rare disease in which there is a congenital defect of the left main coronary artery, causing heart failure and exercise-induced angina attacks at a young age. Thus, it is disease that should be differentiated when examining young persons with chest pain.

Case summary

A 16-year-old boy experienced sudden cardiopulmonary arrest during soccer practice, was brought to our hospital for emergency treatment after return of spontaneous circulation. Elective coronary angiography revealed findings indicating an osmium defect in the left coronary artery (LCA) and blood flow via collateral circulation from the right coronary artery. Contrast-enhanced coronary computed tomography (CT) angiography showed a defect in the LCA ostium and LMCAA was diagnosed in the patient. After coronary artery bypass grafting was performed, but the patient was discharged in an ambulatory state with a wearable cardiac defibrillator. Postoperative course has been favourable.

Discussion

Left main coronary artery atresia is an extremely rare disease in which there is a congenital defect of the left main trunk of the coronary artery and should be differentiated when encountering cases of heart failure or exercise-induced angina/arrhythmia attacks in young persons who are not at risk for atherosclerosis. Exercise electrocardiogram may show a false negative result, and therefore coronary CT is useful for diagnosis.
Pulmonary embolism in COVID-19 patients: a French multicentre cohort study
Authors: Fauvel Charles , Weizman Orianne , Trimaille Antonin , Mika Delphine , Pommier Thibaut , Pace Nathalie , Douair Amine , Barbin Eva , Fraix Antoine , Bouchot Océane , Benmansour Othmane , Godeau Guillaume , Mecheri Yasmine , Lebourdon Romane , Yvorel Cédric , Massin Michael , Leblon Tiphaine , Chabbi Chaima , Cugney Erwan , Benabou Léa , Aubry Matthieu , Chan Camille , Boufoula Ines , Barnaud Clement , Bothorel Léa , Duceau Baptiste , Sutter Willy , Waldmann Victor , Bonnet Guillaume , Cohen Ariel , Pezel Théo ,   for the Critical Covid-19 France Investigators
Published: June 2020

Aims

While pulmonary embolism (PE) appears to be a major issue in COVID-19, data remain sparse. We aimed to describe the risk factors and baseline characteristics of patients with PE in a cohort of COVID-19 patients.

Methods and results

In a retrospective multicentre observational study, we included consecutive patients hospitalized for COVID-19. Patients without computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA)-proven PE diagnosis and those who were directly admitted to an intensive care unit (ICU) were excluded. Among 1240 patients (58.1% men, mean age 64 ± 17 years), 103 (8.3%) patients had PE confirmed by CTPA. The ICU transfer and mechanical ventilation were significantly higher in the PE group (for both P < 0.001). In an univariable analysis, traditional venous thrombo-embolic risk factors were not associated with PE (P > 0.05), while patients under therapeutic dose anticoagulation before hospitalization or prophylactic dose anticoagulation introduced during hospitalization had lower PE occurrence [odds ratio (OR) 0.40, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.14–0.91, P = 0.04; and OR 0.11, 95% CI 0.06–0.18, P < 0.001, respectively]. In a multivariable analysis, the following variables, also statistically significant in univariable analysis, were associated with PE: male gender (OR 1.03, 95% CI 1.003–1.069, P = 0.04), anticoagulation with a prophylactic dose (OR 0.83, 95% CI 0.79–0.85, P < 0.001) or a therapeutic dose (OR 0.87, 95% CI 0.82–0.92, P < 0.001), C-reactive protein (OR 1.03, 95% CI 1.01–1.04, P = 0.001), and time from symptom onset to hospitalization (OR 1.02, 95% CI 1.006–1.038, P = 0.002).

Conclusion

PE risk factors in the COVID-19 context do not include traditional thrombo-embolic risk factors but rather independent clinical and biological findings at admission, including a major contribution to inflammation.
Masters in the Things of War: Rethinking Military Justice during the Thirty Years War
Authors: Staiano-Daniels Lucian
Published: June 2020

Some historians have proposed that common soldiers in various parts of Europe lost a previous judicial independence around 1600 and have linked this development to a contemporary increase in discipline and in control over them. Meanwhile, historians of the Thirty Years War rarely mention military justice at all or depict this war as a time when military justice did not function. In contrast, this article examines the ordinary practice of military law during the Thirty Years War through a close reading of low-level legal paperwork generated by electoral Saxon units. Although military justice was not egalitarian, common soldiers in these units took an active role in the administration of justice, even in the early seventeenth century. The practice of law in early seventeenth-century electoral Saxon military units was similar to pre-existing structures of military justice, but subtly modified.
Trends of Physical Functioning, Morbidity, and Disability-Free Life Expectancy Among the Oldest Old: Six Repeated Cross-Sectional Surveys Between 2001 and 2018 in the Vitality 90+ Study
Authors: Enroth Linda , Raitanen Jani , Halonen Pauliina , Tiainen Kristina , Jylhä Marja
Published: June 2020

Background

It remains unclear whether increasing longevity is accompanied by a compression or expansion of poor health and disability. We examined trends of physical functioning and morbidity in a population aged 90 and older, and disease- and disability-free life expectancy (LE) at age 90 between 2001 and 2018 in Finland’s third most populated city.

Methods

We used survey data from the Vitality 90+ Study, which comprises a series of six repeated mailed surveys (7,590 observations). Information on mortality came from Statistics Finland. We examined trends of functioning (activities of daily living [ADL] and mobility) and cardiovascular and dementia morbidity using age-adjusted generalized estimating equation models stratified by sex. In addition, age-, sex-, and period-specific health expectancies were calculated using Sullivan’s method.

Results

Over time, functioning improved, especially, in women, and morbidity increased in men. From 2001 to 2018, LE at age 90 increased by 5.3 months for men and 6.4 months for women. LE without ADL disability increased by 5.0 months for men and 8.4 months for women, and LE without mobility disability by 6.0 months for men and 4.4 months for women. LE without cardiovascular and dementia morbidity decreased for men (2.6 months) and increased for women (1.9 months).

Conclusions

In relative terms, we found a compression of disability for both sexes and an expansion of morbidity for men. Although the trends overall are rather positive, the increase in absolute morbidity and, to some extent, in disability will inevitably mean increasing care needs with population aging.
Māori Becoming Peer Educators in Later Life: Impacts on Identity, Well-being, and Social Connectedness
Authors: Simpson Mary Louisa , Oetzel John , Nock Sophie , Greensill Hine-iti-moana , Meha Pare , Reddy Rangimahora , Johnston Kirsten , Cameron Michael , Harding Truely , Shelford Pita , Smith Linda Tuhiwai , Hokowhitu Brendan
Published: June 2020

Objective

The aim of this study was to examine ways that older Māori (New Zealand’s Indigenous people) enhanced their ability to be peer educators and how this role impacted on their sense of purpose and well-being in later life.

Method

Kaupapa Māori and community-based participatory research principles guided the peer intervention involving 26 Māori kaumātua (older people 55 years and older) as peer educators (tuakana) for 121 other kaumātua (teina) facing transitions in later life. Each pair held up to 3 conversations; independent coders rated tuakana communication skills. We used mixed methods in a pre- and post-test, clustered staggered design. Participants completed baseline and post-intervention assessments of health and well-being consistent with Māori worldviews. 5 focus groups involving 22 teina and 1 with 5 tuakana were held.

Results

Tuakana communication skills were rated as high by teina and independent coders. Qualitative analysis supported the importance of Māori communication processes for the role. Further, three measures increased significantly from the baseline to the final period for tuakana accounting for about 15% of the variance in these variables: sense of purpose (p = .07), self-rated health (p = .05), and health-related quality of life (p = .04). The qualitative analysis supported the benefits of the peer educator role for older Māori including enhanced sense of identity, well-being, and social connectedness.

Discussion

The results demonstrated that kaumātua had strong communication in the peer educator role and that the intervention has positive impacts for them. The study contributes to peer intervention research that may help to improve experiences ofIndigenous and other older people.
The Effectiveness of e-Health Solutions for Aging With Cognitive Impairment: A Systematic Review
Authors: Dequanter Samantha , Gagnon Marie-Pierre , Ndiaye Mame-Awa , Gorus Ellen , Fobelets Maaike , Giguère Anik , Bourbonnais Anne , Buyl Ronald
Published: June 2020

Background and Objectives

e-Health solutions are an innovative approach to support aging with cognitive impairment. Because technology is developing at a fast pace, the aim of this review was to present an overview of the research regarding the effectiveness of these solutions. Moreover, the availability of these solutions was examined.

Research Design and Methods

Systematic searches were conducted in 7 databases. Full texts of potentially relevant references were assessed by 2 reviewers, and discrepancies were solved through discussion. Data on study characteristics, technology type, application domain, availability, outcomes, and effects were extracted. A categorization exercise and narrative synthesis were conducted.

Results

In total, 72 studies describing 70 e-Health solutions were identified. The majority of solutions comprised cognitive training for older adults, followed by educational and supportive web platforms for caregivers. Outcomes included mainly measures of cognition, psychosocial functioning, caregiving processes, caregiver–care receiver relationship, and activities of daily living. Positive effects of cognitive training technologies were observed on cognitive functioning of older adults, as well as those of supportive web platforms on behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia and caregiver self-efficacy. The effects of these solutions on depression in both target groups were inconclusive. The methodological quality of the studies was moderate to good. However, some important limitations were observed.

Discussion and Implications

The review identified cognitive training solutions and supportive web platforms as the most effective on a limited number of outcomes. Although other solutions seem promising, further research has to overcome methodological issues. Furthermore, solutions for leisure and reminiscence and outcomes specifically related to independent living deserve more attention.
A Secret Longing for a Trade in Human Flesh: the Decline of British Slavery and the Making of the Settler Colonies
Authors: Lydon Jane
Published: June 2020

Focusing upon the achievement of the abolition of British slavery in 1833 has obscured significant continuities between slavery, apprenticeship, and the post-emancipation period, particularly in the new Anglophone settler colonies. During the decade leading up to abolition, domestic unrest intensified the tension between the elite abolitionist movement’s humanitarian concern for Caribbean slaves, and its leaders’ simultaneous implication in the repression of British workers – a corollary of which relegated convicts to the category of unreformable ‘voluntary slaves’. Edward Gibbon Wakefield’s 1829 proposal for colonization entered a longstanding debate about labour discipline that was central both to ameliorative slave reform and to experiments in emigration and settler colonialism, and expressed his ambivalence regarding the benefits of ‘free labour’. In the transition to new labour regimes, systematic colonization translated categories and practices developed in the Caribbean into colonial projects, including raced and classed labour hierarchies targeted to specific climatic zones. As Caribbean slavery ended and settler colonialism began, the new colonies offered a solution to the loss of the ‘trade in human flesh’ by removing dissenters from the British social order, opening up new fields for investment, and creating a disciplined colonial labour force.
Conservation and Management Strategies Create Opportunities for Integrative Organismal Research
Authors: McBrayer Lance D , Orton Richard W , Kinsey Chase T , Neel Lauren K
Published: June 2020

Synopsis

Conservation and management activities are geared toward the achievement of particular goals for a specific species, or groups of species, at the population level or higher. Conversely, organismal or functional research is typically organized by hypothesis tests or descriptive work that examines a broader theory studying individual organismal traits. Here, we outline how integrative organismal biologists might conduct mutually beneficial and meaningful research to inform or assist conservation and management biologists. We argue that studies of non-target species are very useful to both groups because non-target species can meet the goals of managers and organismal biologists alike, while also informing the other. We highlight our work on a threatened lizard species’ thermal physiology, behavior, and color pattern—all of which are impacted by species management plans for sympatric, threatened, bird species. We show that management practices affect activity time, thermal adaptation, and substrate use, while also altering predation rates, crypsis, ectoparasite load, and sexual coloration in the study species. These case studies exemplify the challenges of conservation and management efforts for threatened or endangered species in that non-target species can be both positively and negatively affected by those efforts. Yet, the collaboration of organismal biologists with conservation and management efforts provides a productive system for mutually informative research.
Forum: Interlingual Relations: Approaches, Conflicts, and Lessons in the Translation Of Global Politics
Authors: Caraccioli Mauro J , Wigen Einar , Lopez Julia Costa , Cheney Amanda , Subotic Jelena
Published: June 2020

At stake in this forum are the politics of translation in the study of global politics. More specifically, the following interventions aim to consider the ways that scholars can recenter the utility of language toward more flexible conceptions of relationality. As each contribution reveals, translation is indispensable to individual theorizations of international politics; yet taken together, the forum aims to mitigate the alleged necessity of a lingua franca in IR scholarship. We go beyond the linguistic demands of conventional conceptual history in that each intervention employs a reflexive disposition to consider both their subject position and normative aspirations in the experience of translation. The forum's overall goal is to illustrate the ethical imperative to acknowledge the contextual specificity of linguistic encounters—past, present, and future—and in the process breathe life into the prose of world politics.