bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Magnetic resonance imaging manifestations of cerebral small vessel disease: automated quantification and clinical application
Authors: Zhao Lei , Lee Allan , Fan Yu-Hua , Mok Vincent C.T. , Shi Lin
Published: December 2020

The common cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) neuroimaging features visible on conventional structural magnetic resonance imaging include recent small subcortical infarcts, lacunes, white matter hyperintensities, perivascular spaces, microbleeds, and brain atrophy. The CSVD neuroimaging features have shared and distinct clinical consequences, and the automatic quantification methods for these features are increasingly used in research and clinical settings. This review article explores the recent progress in CSVD neuroimaging feature quantification and provides an overview of the clinical consequences of these CSVD features as well as the possibilities of using these features as endpoints in clinical trials. The added value of CSVD neuroimaging quantification is also discussed for researches focused on the mechanism of CSVD and the prognosis in subjects with CSVD.
Light therapy: a new option for neurodegenerative diseases
Authors: Liu Yu-Lu , Gong Si-Yi , Xia Shu-Ting , Wang Ya-Li , Peng Hao , Shen Yun , Liu Chun-Feng
Published: December 2020

Given the increasing incidence of neurodegenerative disease (ND), recent research efforts have intensified the search for curative treatments. Despite significant research, however, existing therapeutic options for ND can only slow down the progression of the disease, but not provide a cure. Light therapy (LT) has been used to treat some mental and sleep disorders. This review illustrates recent studies of the use of LT in patients with ND and highlights its potential for clinical applications. The literature was collected from PubMed through June 2020. Selected studies were primarily English articles or articles that could be obtained with English abstracts and Chinese main text. Articles were not limited by type. Additional potential publications were also identified from the bibliographies of identified articles and the authors’ reference libraries. The identified literature suggests that LT is a safe and convenient physical method of treatment. It may alleviate sleep disorders, depression, cognitive function, and other clinical symptoms. However, some studies have reported limited or no effects. Therefore, LT represents an attractive therapeutic approach for further investigation in ND. LT is an effective physical form of therapy and a new direction for research into treatments for ND. However, it requires further animal experiments to elucidate mechanisms of action and large, double-blind, randomized, and controlled trials to explore true efficacy in patients with ND.
Fatigue correlates with sleep disturbances in Parkinson disease
Authors: Cao Xiang-Yang , Zhang Jin-Ru , Shen Yun , Mao Cheng-Jie , Shen Yu-Bing , Cao Yu-Lan , Gu Han-Ying , Wang Fen , Liu Chun-Feng
Published: December 2020

Background:

Many Parkinson disease (PD) patients complain about chronic fatigue and sleep disturbances during the night. The objective of this study is to determine the relationship between fatigue and sleep disturbances by using polysomnography (PSG) in PD patients.

Methods:

Two hundred and thirty-two PD patients (152 with mild fatigue and 80 with severe fatigue) were recruited in this study. Demographic information and clinical symptoms were collected. Fatigue severity scale (FSS) was applied to evaluate the severity of fatigue, and PSG was conducted in all PD patients. FSS ≥4 was defined as severe fatigue, and FSS <4 was defined as mild fatigue. Multivariate logistic regression and linear regression models were used to investigate the associations between fatigue and sleep disturbances.

Results:

Patients with severe fatigue tended to have a longer duration of disease, higher Unified Parkinson Disease Rating Scale score, more advanced Hoehn and Yahr stage, higher daily levodopa equivalent dose, worse depression, anxiety, and higher daytime sleepiness score. In addition, they had lower percentage of rapid eye movement (REM) sleep (P = 0.009) and were more likely to have REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD) (P = 0.018). Multivariate logistic regression analyses found that the presence of RBD and proportion of REM sleep were the independent predictors for fatigue. After the adjustment of age, sex, duration, body mass index, severity of disease, scores of Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression, Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale, and other sleep disorders, proportion of REM sleep and degree of REM sleep without atonia in patients with PD were still associated with FSS score.

Conclusion:

Considering the association between fatigue, RBD, and the altered sleep architecture, fatigue is a special subtype in PD and more studies should be focused on this debilitating symptom.
Clinical Implications for Cardiovascular Compromise in Patients With Spinal Cord Injury: A Case Study of Autonomic Dysreflexia, Cardiac Pacing Abnormality, and Orthostatic Hypotension in Contemporary Physical Therapy Management
Authors: Stam Daniel , Pernu Jenna
Published: December 2020

Purpose:

Although recent advances in the neurological care of spinal cord injury have made great strides, cardiovascular disease has emerged as a leading contributor to mortality within this population. Achieving a greater understanding of the pathophysiology of acute cardiovascular dysfunction may aid the physical therapist in establishing more effective clinical care and decision making. The purpose of this article is to review the pathophysiology of acute cardiovascular dysfunction after cervical and thoracic spinal cord injury (injuries above the T6 vertebrae) and translate this knowledge to the clinical management of a medically complex patient case.

Methods:

A 62-year-old man sustained a traumatic sensory and motor complete T2 spinal cord injury. During the course of acute hospitalization, the patient suffered multiple episodes of cardiac arrest, and a permanent pacemaker was implanted. Inpatient rehabilitation was further complicated by orthostatic hypotension and emergence of autonomic dysreflexia.

Results:

Orthostatic hypotension was addressed with a combination of positional tolerance progression and patient education. Autonomic dysreflexia episodes required prompt recognition and appropriate response. After a 6-month hospitalization, the patient was discharged to home.

Conclusion:

Cardiovascular concerns after spinal cord injury have become increasingly prevalent leading to significant implications to physical therapists. Understanding the pathophysiology of these conditions as well as normal and abnormal cardiovascular responses to activity is crucial for establishing safe patient outcomes.
Overlapping Effects of miR-21 Inhibition and Drugs for Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis: Rationale for Repurposing Nintedanib as a Novel Treatment for Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Aimo Alberto , Egea Oriol I. , Emdin Michele , Bayes-Genis Antoni
Published: December 2020

A specific anti-miR-21 has emerged as an effective treatment for ischemia/reperfusion injury in a pig model of myocardial infarction (MI), but the perspectives for clinical translation are limited. Anti-miR-21 blunts profibrotic pathways, whose excessive activation is detrimental in the post-MI setting. Repurposing antifibrotic drugs approved for other indications is a possible strategy. We compared the molecular effects of anti-miR-21 and the 2 drugs approved for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (nintedanib and pirfenidone) through a bioinformatic approach. We report that nintedanib and anti-miR-21 share many targets, including the proto-oncogene Rous sarcoma oncogene cellular homolog. Conversely, pirfenidone and anti-miR-21 do not have common mechanisms of action. In summary, the molecular mechanisms activated by nintedanib are partially overlapping with those elicited by anti-miR-21. Nintedanib could be evaluated in animal studies or clinical trials on MI.
Mitral valve surgery for rheumatic heart disease: replace, repair, retrain?
Authors: Vervoort Dominique , Ouzounian Maral , Yanagawa Bobby
Published: December 2020

Purpose of review

Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) affects over 30 million people worldwide. Substantial variation exists in the surgical treatment of patients with RHD. Here, we aim to review the surgical techniques to treat RHD with a focus on rheumatic mitral valve (MV) repair. We introduce novel educational paradigms to embrace repair-oriented techniques in cardiac centers.

Recent findings

Due to the low prevalence of RHD in high-income countries, limited expertise in MV surgery for RHD, technical complexity of MV repair for RHD and concerns about durability, most surgeons elect for MV replacement. However, in some series, MV repair is associated with improved outcomes, fewer reinterventions, and avoidance of anticoagulation-related complications. In low- and middle-income countries, the RHD burden is large and MV repair is more commonly performed due to high rates of loss-to-follow-up and barriers associated with anticoagulation, international normalized ratio monitoring, and risk of reintervention.

Increased consideration for MV repair in the setting of RHD may be warranted, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. We suggest some avenues for increased exposure and training in rheumatic valve surgery through international bilateral partnership models in endemic regions, visiting surgeons from endemic regions, simulation training, and courses by professional societies.
COVID-19 Pandemic Leading to the Accelerated Development of a Virtual Health Model for Isotretinoin
Authors: Kane Sierra , Admani Shehla
Published: December 2020

Isotretinoin is a highly efficacious medication for the treatment of acne vulgaris; however, its prescription is subject to the strict requirements of the iPLEDGE restricted distribution program. These requirements have placed significant financial, time, and logistical burdens on patients taking the medication. The stay-at-home ordinances enacted by many states during the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) global pandemic have accelerated previous trends toward utilization of telehealth and decreased laboratory monitoring in the care of patients on isotretinoin. Recent changes to the iPLEDGE program allowing use of at-home pregnancy tests to meet monthly pregnancy test requirements during the pandemic have increased availability of testing options for patients of child-bearing potential on isotretinoin. The change to use of at-home pregnancy test monitoring as well as long-term trends toward increasing access to isotretinoin through the use of telehealth are discussed.
Advancements and critical steps for statistical analyses in blood pressure response to resistance training in hypertensive older women: a methodological approach
Authors: da Cunha Nascimento Dahan , Neto Ivo Vieira de Sousa , Saraiva Bruno , Lima Adamor da Silva , Navalta James Wilfred , Pereira Guilherme Borges , Willardson Jeffrey M. , Rodrigues Beal Fabiani Lage , Prestes Jonato
Published: December 2020

Background

Repeated measures analysis of covariance and three-way analysis of variance with repeated measures are common statistical methods. For a valid interpretation of blood pressure (BP) response to exercise, a variety of additional statistical methods must be implemented. Four additional statistical methods are presented: technical error of measurement (SEM), smallest real difference (SRD), magnitude-based inference and mixed effect modeling technique (MEM). The aim of this perspective article is to demonstrate how to apply already known statistical analyses regarding BP responsiveness in order to improve interpretation and achieve higher reliability for future studies in exercise science.

Methods

A total of 27 hypertensive older women (aged 68.37 ± 5.55 years) participated in the present study. A whole-body resistance training (RT) program was performed on two nonconsecutive days per week for 10 weeks. BP was monitored during the 10-week RT intervention and after 15 weeks of detraining. First, individuals were classified as high and low responders, then statistical methods to analyze data included the use of SEM, SRD, magnitude-based inference and MEM.

Results

When magnitude-based inference was used to classify responsiveness, most participants displayed a trivial response. Decrements in SBP between 1 and 10 mmHg were not clinically meaningful but fell within the measurement error of the SBP measurements. Baseline SBP and time of training predicted post-SBP response.

Conclusion

Changes over time and declines in SBP might not be a SRD and fell in the SEM. Moreover, SBP responsiveness was the result of inappropriate control of covariates such as period of training.
Clinical and health status outcomes among patients treated with single as compared to multivessel angioplasty during chronic total occlusion percutaneous coronary interventions: a report from the OPEN CTO registry
Authors: Riley Robert F. , Sapontis James , Karmpaliotis Dimiti , Nicholson William J. , Moses Jeffrey W. , Gosch Kensey , Lombardi William L. , Salisbury Adam C. , McCabe James M. , Grantham J. Aaron
Published: December 2020

Background

Patients with coronary chronic total occlusions (CTO) often have multivessel coronary artery disease. We utilized the OPEN CTO study to evaluate patients who underwent single-vessel versus multivessel percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) during CTO PCI.

Methods

Patients were considered to have undergone single-vessel CTO PCI if they underwent target-vessel only CTO PCI. Patients who underwent multivessel PCI during their index CTO PCI procedure were considered to have undergone multivessel PCI. The additional lesions treated in the multivessel group could be either a separate CTO lesion in a separate epicardial vessel or PCI attempt of any non-CTO stenosis during the same index procedure. Multivariate regression models were used to evaluate predictors of technical success, in-hospital major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE), and health status measures.

Results

Eighty hundred twenty-one patients underwent single-vessel CTO PCI and 179 (17.9%) underwent multivessel PCI during their CTO PCI procedure. Baseline comorbidities, index CTO lesion complexity, and successful crossing strategies used were similar between the two groups. Total procedural time (142.6 versus 115.9 minutes, P < 0.01) and contrast administered (293.8 versus 255.0 ml, P < 0.01) were increased in the multivessel CTO PCI group. Single-vessel versus multivessel PCI during these cases did not affect the likelihood of achieving technical success [odds ratio (OR) 1.05, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.63–1.75] nor the risk for MACCE (OR 1.23, 95% CI 0.72–2.11). Quality of life (QOL) metrics were similar between the two groups at baseline and 30-day follow-up.

Conclusion

There were no significant differences in technical success, in-hospital MACCE rates, or QOL metrics at 30-day follow-up for patients who underwent single-vessel versus multivessel PCI during CTO PCI.
Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol/apolipoprotein B ratio is superior to apolipoprotein B alone in the diagnosis of coronary artery calcification
Authors: Chang Tsui-Yen , Chen Jong-Dar
Published: December 2020

Objective

Coronary artery calcification (CAC) is closely associated with adverse coronary artery events and mortality. Measuring the extent of CAC can lead to the early diagnosis of coronary artery atherosclerosis. In this study, we determined the association between the low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and apolipoprotein B (ApoB) ratio, ApoB, and CAC and compared the usefulness of the LDL-C/ApoB ratio and ApoB for diagnosing CAC.

Methods

A total of 10 357 subjects who underwent self-paid health checkups from July 2006 to May 2016 were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. The extension of CAC was assessed using a coronary artery calcium score with electron-beam computed tomography. Subjects who had an Agatston calcium score >0 were defined as having CAC, whereas those with a score ≥400 were defined as having severe CAC. Low LDL-C/ApoB ratios were used to represent the predominance of small, dense LDL-C.

Results

The prevalence of subjects with coronary calcification increased with the quartile values of ApoB levels and low quartile values of LDL-C/ApoB ratios. The odds ratios for CAC and severe CAC were 2.9 [95% confidence interval (CI), 2.2–3.9] and 4.4 (95% CI, 3.3–5.9) among the highest quartile of ApoB compared with the lowest quartile, and 9.5 (95% CI, 8.3–10.9) and 103.0 (95% CI, 56.9–187.8) among the lowest quartile of LDL-C/ApoB ratios compared with the highest quartile. The areas under the curve of ApoB and LDL-C/ApoB ratio for the diagnosis of CAC and severe CAC were 0.591 versus 0.679 and 0.618 versus 0.787, respectively. The LCL-C/ApoB ratio was superior to ApoB in terms of diagnosing subjects with CAC and severe CAC.

Conclusion

The LDL-C/ApoB ratio is a superior indicator to ApoB in the diagnosis of subjects with CAC, it can be conveniently used to improve the diagnostic ability of ApoB for CAC.
Prioritizing nutrition during recovery from critical illness
Authors: Nienow Morgan K. , Susterich Courtney E. , Peterson Sarah J.
Published: December 2020

Purpose of review

Patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) often experience a significant decline in nutritional status due to a combination of the physiologic response to critical illness and insufficient calorie intake. The majority of research related to nutrition interventions for this population focuses on nutrition support during the acute phase. Minimal attention is given to the nutritional status of ICU patients during the recovery phase. This review will describe calorie intake when ICU care ends, provide an overview of barriers that limit intake, and possible interventions to improve nutritional status.

Recent findings

Current evidence suggests patients are consuming < 60% of calorie requirements after extubation and ICU discharge. This inadequate calorie intake may exacerbate weight loss and muscle and fat wasting. Physiologic, physical, and cognitive manifestations of critical illness can lead to multiple issues that cause poor intake. Possible interventions to improve calorie intake include a patient-centered approach that utilizes oral nutrition supplements and enteral nutrition.

Consuming adequate caloric intake in the recovery phase of critical illness is essential for rehabilitation. A systematic, patient centered approach that includes close monitoring of calorie and protein and timely interventions may be the best method to improve overall intake.
Ghrelin-cell physiology and role in the gastrointestinal tract
Authors: Sakata Ichiro , Takemi Shota
Published: December 2020

Purpose of review

Ghrelin was discovered in 1999; extensive research and clinical studies on ghrelin have been published in the last 20 years. Physiological research on ghrelin ranges from its appetite-stimulating effects to its association with energy homeostasis. The physiological effects of ghrelin in the gastrointestinal tract and its relevance in the pathological conditions of the gastrointestinal tract have gradually become clearer. The purpose of the review is to provide current information on ghrelin cell biology and physiology, particularly in the gastrointestinal tract.

Recent findings

Ghrelin-producing cells in the stomach are characterized as X/A-like cells, but immunohistochemical analyses have revealed co-expression of several secreted proteins and hormones in ghrelin-producing cells such as nesfatin-1, somatostatin, and pancreastatin. Furthermore, the local physiological roles and/or mechanisms of ghrelin in gastrointestinal functions such as gastric motility and inflammation are discussed.

Ghrelin is a brain–gut hormone with a wide range of physiological actions; hence, it is important to understand its effects on the physiological functions of the gastrointestinal tract to elucidate the biological significance of ghrelin.
Neurological Manifestations of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Khan Alizay R. , Farooqui Muhammad O. , Jatoi Nadia N. , Jawaid Samreen , Mahdi Danial , Khosa Faisal
Published: December 2020

Background:

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic started as an outbreak in China and soon crossed borders to affect the populations in all countries of the world. During the initial course of the disease, COVID-19 was perceived as a pneumonia-like illness. However, recent findings of COVID-19 patients suggest that the virus has the potential to disseminate to different tissues and organs, and cause significant complications.

Neurological symptoms are of great significance as these usually present in and complicate critical cases. Many case reports and case series have documented the findings of neurological complications in COVID-19 patients. From the existing data, the most frequent symptoms in these patients were broadly classified into the central nervous system (CNS), peripheral nervous system, and skeletal muscular symptoms. CNS symptoms include meningitis, encephalitis, cerebrovascular complications, peripheral nervous system symptoms include anosmia, ageusia, and skeletal muscular symptoms include myalgias. It is postulated that the cause may be direct CNS injury through blood and neuronal pathways or indirectly because of an immune-mediated response, hypoxia caused by decreased oxygen saturation, or by the binding of subacute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 to the host angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 receptors. Striking radiologic findings in COVID-19 patients with neurological symptoms have also emerged.

Conclusions:

As subacute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 may potentially have lethal implications on the nervous system, it is important that neurologists are better informed about the spectrum of clinical manifestations, radiologic findings, and likely mechanisms of injury. Understanding the symptoms and radiologic imaging allows clinicians to consider brain imaging in any patient with suspected COVID-19 and neurological symptoms.
Genomic diversity of SARS-CoV-2 can be accelerated by mutations in the nsp14 gene
Authors: Takada Kosuke , Ueda Mahoko Takahashi , Shichinohe Shintaro , Kida Yurie , Ono Chikako , Matsuura Yoshiharu , Watanabe Tokiko , Nakagawa So
Published: December 2020

Coronaviruses, including severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), encode a proofreading exonuclease, nonstructural protein 14 (nsp14), that helps ensure replication competence at a low evolutionary rate compared with other RNA viruses. In the current pandemic, SARS-CoV-2 has accumulated diverse genomic mutations including in nsp14. Here, to clarify whether amino acid substitutions in nsp14 affect the genomic diversity and evolution of SARS-CoV-2, we searched for amino acid substitutions in nature that may interfere with nsp14 function. We found that viruses carrying a proline-to-leucine change at position 203 (P203L) have a high evolutionary rate and that a recombinant SARS-CoV-2 virus with the P203L mutation acquired more diverse genomic mutations than wild-type virus during its replication in hamsters. Our findings suggest that substitutions, such as P203L, in nsp14 may accelerate the genomic diversity of SARS-CoV-2, contributing to virus evolution during the pandemic.
Criticality Creates a Functional Platform for Network Transitions between Internal and External Processing Modes in the Human Brain
Authors: Kim Minkyung , Kim Hyoungkyu , Huang Zirui , Mashour George A. , Jordan Denis , Ilg Rüdiger , Lee UnCheol
Published: December 2020

Continuous switching between internal and external modes in the brain is a key process of constructing inner models of the outside world. However, how the brain continuously switches between two modes remains elusive. Here, we propose that a large synchronization fluctuation of the brain network emerging only near criticality (i.e., a balanced state between order and disorder) spontaneously creates temporal windows with distinct preferences for integrating internal information of the network and external stimuli. Using a computational model and empirical data analysis during alterations of consciousness in human, we present that synchronized and incoherent networks respectively bias toward internal and external information with specific network configurations. The network preferences are the most prominent in conscious states; however, they disrupt in altered states of consciousness. We suggest that criticality produces a functional platform of the brain’s capability for continuous switching between two modes, which is crucial for the emergence of consciousness.
Asymbiotic mass production of the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungusRhizophagus clarus
Authors: Tanaka Sachiko , Hashimoto Kayo , Kobayashi Yuuki , Yano Koji , Maeda Taro , Kameoka Hiromu , Ezawa Tatsuhiro , Saito Katsuharu , Akiyama Kohki , Kawaguchi Masayoshi
Published: December 2020

Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) symbiosis is a mutually beneficial interaction between fungi and land plants and promotes global phosphate cycling in terrestrial ecosystems. AM fungi are recognised as obligate symbionts that require root colonisation to complete a life cycle involving the production of propagules, asexual spores. Recently it has been shown thatRhizophagus irregulariscan produce infection-competent secondary spores asymbiotically by adding a fatty acid, palmitoleic acid. Further, asymbiotic growth can be supported using myristate as a carbon and energy source for their asymbiotic growth to increase fungal biomass. However, spore production and the ability of these spores to colonise host roots were still limited compared to co-culture of the fungus with plant roots. Here we show that a combination of two plant hormones, strigolactone and methyl jasmonate, induces production of a large number of infection-competent spores in asymbiotic cultures ofRhizophagus clarusHR1 in the presence of myristate and organic nitrogen. Inoculation of asymbiotically-generated spores promoted the growth of Welsh onions, as observed for spores produced by symbiotic culture system. Our findings provide a foundation for elucidation of hormonal control of the fungal life cycle and development of new inoculum production schemes.
Graded heterogeneity of metabotropic signaling underlies a continuum of cell-intrinsic temporal responses
Authors: Guo Chong , Huson Vincent , Macosko Evan , Regehr Wade G.
Published: December 2020

Many neuron types consist of populations with continuously varying molecular properties. Here we show a continuum of postsynaptic molecular properties in three types of neurons and assess the functional consequences in cerebellar unipolar brush cells (UBCs). While UBCs are thought to form discrete functional subtypes, with mossy fiber (MF) activation increasing firing in ON-UBC and suppressing firing in OFF-UBC. We find instead a continuum of response profiles that reflect the graded and inversely correlated expression of excitatory mGluR1 and inhibitory mGluR2/3 pathways. MFs coactivate mGluR2/3 and mGluR1 in many UBCs, leading to sequential inhibition-excitation because mGluR2/3-currents are faster. Additionally, we show that DAG kinase controls mGluR1 response duration, and that graded DAG kinase levels account for systematic variation of response duration over two orders of magnitude. These results demonstrate that continuous variations in metabotropic signaling can generate a stable cell-autonomous basis for temporal integration and learning over multiple time scales.
How to avoid common mistakes in experimental research?
Authors: Mattila Anna S. , Luo Anqi , Xue Xunyue , Ye Tian
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss some common pitfalls in experimental research in the field of hospitality and tourism. It aims to offer recommendations on how to avoid such problems to enhance theory development.

Findings

This paper highlights some common pitfalls in hospitality research regarding manipulations, samples and data analyses. The challenges imposed by the global pandemic are also discussed.

Research limitations/implications

Researchers in hospitality are recommended to refine their experimental designs, to recruit appropriate and sufficient samples and to avoid the abuse of “researcher degrees of freedom” in data analysis.

Originality/value

This is the first study to review common mistakes in experimental research in hospitality research and to recommend some remedies. The findings of this study can contribute to stronger theory development.
Parameters determining the quality of corrosion damage, induced by impressed current density technique, on steel reinforcement
Authors: Apostolopoulos Charis , Drakakaki Argyro , Katsaounis Alexandros , Bardi Maria , Koulouris Konstantinos Faidon
Published: December 2020

Purpose

In the present study, an effort has been made to estimate the effect of significant parameters on the vulnerability of steel reinforcement to corrosion, using both impressed current density technique and Tafel extrapolation method.

Design/methodology/approach

Five sets of tests were performed. Corrosion vulnerability of various diameters, temperature and pH effect on the corrosion process, potential corrosion tendency after a precorrosion period and declination from the theoretical damage prediction model are some of the parameters examined

Findings

The results of the tests provide useful information on the main parameters, determining the quality of the corrosion damage.

Originality/value

The originality of the present study is the fact that an effort has been made to estimate the effect of significant parameters on the vulnerability of steel reinforcement to corrosion, using both impressed current density technique and Tafel extrapolation method. Interesting conclusions emerged.
Emerging managerial risks from the application of building information modelling
Authors: Almarri Khalid , Aljarman Moshabab , Boussabaine Halim
Published: December 2020

Purpose

Building information modelling (BIM) technology adoption is growing rapidly because of its perceived benefits. The purpose of this paper is to assess the perceptions of the users of BIM regarding the likelihood of managerial risks emergence that might influence the successful application of BIM, to facilitate the successful implementation of BIM in the construction industry.

Design/methodology/approach

Emerging managerial BIM risks were extracted from the literature. The primary data were collected via a questionnaire survey. The analysis of the results was driven by univariate and inferential statistics (analysis of variance ) to assess the emergence of managerial risks.

Findings

The study confirmed the nine most likely managerial risks that might emerge from BIM adoption, which are lack of understanding of the expectations from BIM modelling, lack of experienced and skilled personnel, lack of clarity on integration of BIM with the current business practice, conflict because of dissimilar expectations from BIM, lack of collaborative work processes and standards, lack of understanding of BIM processes, lack of understanding modelling behaviours, lack of expertise within the project team, lack of expertise within the organizations and lack of criteria for BIM project implementation.

Research limitations/implications

The results will intensify the discussion about BIM risks, risk allocation and other aspects that are related to BIM methodology. The compiled list of managerial risks will help stakeholders in assessing financial implications that may result from BIM application. The list of risks could be used in pricing consultancy and construction services. More importantly, the list might be useful in developing an international standard for BIM risk management. The results showed that BIM success depends on the close collaboration, at the outset of the project, with contractors, consultants, designers and client.

Originality/value

Important managerial risks have been identified in the adoption of BIM. It renders a new understanding of the risks that might influence the successful application of BIM.
Challenges in disaster relief operations: evidence from the 2017 Kermanshah earthquake
Authors: Maghsoudi Amin , Moshtari Mohammad
Published: December 2020

Purpose

This paper identifies the challenges during a recent disaster relief operation in a developing country where the humanitarian response is dominated by national actors, with international actors having a minor role.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study design is used; the main data sources are semi-structured interviews with 43 informants involved in the 2017 Kermanshah earthquake relief operation.

Findings

The findings suggest that humanitarian practitioners deal with multiple challenges during disaster relief operations. One group of challenges relates to humanitarian logistics (HL) like needs assessment, procurement, warehousing, transportation and distribution, all widely discussed in the literature. Another involves the growing use of social media, legitimacy regulations and the engagement of new humanitarian actors (HAs) like social media activists and celebrities. These factors have not been extensively studied in the literature; given their growing influence, they require more scholarly attention.

Practical implications

The findings will help humanitarian practitioners and policymakers better understand the challenges involved in disaster relief operations conducted by multiple actors and thus help them improve their practices, including the creation of proper regulations, policies and logistics strategies.

Originality/value

The study uses primary data on a recent disaster to assess and extend the findings of previous studies regarding HL challenges. It also elaborates on the critical non-logistical challenges that influence aid delivery in emergency responses, including the growth of social media, regulations and the engagement of new HAs. The results may motivate future empirical and modelling studies to investigate the identified challenges and identify practices to mitigate them.
Enhancement of luminous flux of InGaAlP-based low-power SMD LEDs using substrates with different thermal resistances
Authors: Raypah Muna Ezzi , Mahmud Shahrom , Devarajan Mutharasu , AlShammari Anoud
Published: December 2020

Purpose

Optimization of light-emitting diodes’ (LEDs’) design together with long-term reliability is directly correlated with their photometric, electric and thermal characteristics. For a given thermal layout of the LED system, the maximum luminous flux occurs at an optimal electrical input power and can be determined using a photo-electro-thermal (PET) theory. The purpose of this study is to extend the application of the luminous flux equation in PET theory for low-power (LP) LEDs.

Design/methodology/approach

LP surface-mounted device LEDs were mounted on substrates of different thermal resistances. Three LEDs were attached to substrates which were flame-retardant fiberglass epoxy (FR4) and two aluminum-based metal core printed circuit boards (MCPCBs) with thermal conductivities of about 1.0 W/m.K, 2.0 W/m.K and 5.0 W/m.K, respectively. The conjunction of thermal transient tester and thermal and radiometric characterization of LEDs system was used to measure the thermal and optical parameters of the LEDs at a certain range of input current and temperature.

Findings

The validation of the extended application of the luminous flux equation was confirmed via a good agreement between the practical and theoretical results. The outcomes show that the optimum luminous flux is 25.51, 31.91 and 37.01 lm for the LEDs on the FR4 and the two MCPCBs, respectively. Accordingly, the stipulated maximum electrical input power in the LED datasheet (0.185 W) is shifted to 0.6284, 0.6963 and 0.8838 W between the three substrates.

Originality/value

Using a large number of LP LEDs is preferred than high-power (HP) LEDs for the same system power to augment the heat transfer and provide a higher luminous flux. The PET theory equations have been applied to HP LEDs using heatsinks with various thermal resistances. In this work, the PET theory luminous flux equation was extended to be used for Indium Gallium Aluminum Phosphide LP LEDs attached to the substrates with dissimilar thermal resistances.
Useful lifetime estimation of solder joints in power semiconductors employed in current source and voltage source inverters
Authors: Zou Hao , Xie Fang , Du Bo , Kavithaa G.
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to find the optimum inverter type as the solder joint reliability point of view.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, finite element model(ing) simulations supported with power cycling aging experiments were used to demonstrate the best inverter type as the solder joint reliability point of view.

Findings

It was found that inverter types highly affect the solder joint health during its nominal operating.

Originality/value

The authors confirm the originality of this paper.
Overstorey composition shapes across‐trophic level community relationships in deciduous forest regardless of fragmentation context
Authors: Perring Michael P. , Hertzog Lionel R. , De Groote Stefanie R. E. , Dekeukeleire Daan , Dekoninck Wouter , De Smedt Pallieter , Proesmans Willem , Sercu Bram K. , Sleeuwaert Thiebe , Van Keer Johan , van Schrojenstein Lantman Irene M. , Vantieghem Pieter , Baeten Lander , Bonte Dries , Martel An , Verheyen Kris , Lens Luc
Published: December 2020

Communities across trophic levels, and the functional roles they play, are vital for the sustained provision of ecosystem services. In forest systems, diversification of overstorey composition has been shown to be a key driver of biodiversity, but its influence on across‐trophic level relationships remains scarcely known. Species across trophic levels in varied overstorey compositions are also differentially susceptible to fragmentation context. We hypothesise that fragmentation will disrupt community relationships associated with particular overstorey compositions.

We test this hypothesis using a tree diversity research platform across 53 deciduous woodland plots in central Belgium. We estimate species’ abundances within nine, generally taxonomic, community groups across trophic levels: understorey vegetation; leaf miners and gall formers; woodlice, millipedes; carabid beetles, harvestmen, spiders, birds, bats. We use multiple co‐inertia analyses to examine how taxonomic and trophic role community matrices covary across gradients of overstorey composition, via three different tree species diversification pathways, and fragmentation.

For all trophic role groups, across all plots, there was at least one significant pairwise comparison. Apart from comparisons involving bats, there was at least one significant pairwise correlation between taxonomic groups too. These results indicate correlated community matrices across trophic levels. Overstorey composition related to community tightness, that is, the level of co‐ordinated change among taxonomic and/or trophic role groups as revealed by multiple co‐inertia analyses. Notably, diversifying woodlands of beech Fagus sylvatica or red oak Quercus rubra with pedunculate oak Quercus robur correlated with increased taxonomic community tightness. Diversifying pedunculate oak forest stands with other overstorey species related to unchanged community tightness. Evidence was lacking for fragmentation affecting community tightness, singly or by interacting with overstorey composition.

Synthesis. Overall, changing tree species composition and fragmentation level affected across‐trophic level community relationships differently. Yet, we demonstrated a clear signal that diversifying monoculture stands with particular species correlated with greater community tightness, and co‐ordinated change among sets of community groups, across trophic levels and regardless of fragmentation context. We postulate that having tighter community relationships suggests that measures to improve biodiversity at one trophic level (i.e. trees) could affect other groups, and their associated roles, in a co‐ordinated manner.
Test–retest reliability of touchscreen DriveSafe DriveAware
Authors: Johnston Belinda J. , O’Donnell Joan M. , Manuguerra Maurizio , Davidson Andrew S.
Published: December 2020

Introduction

This prospective study examines the test–retest reliability of touchscreen DriveSafe DriveAware (DSDA). In a future study, the authors intend assessing the usefulness of DSDA to measure progress of patients undergoing treatment for neurological conditions. Evidence of test–retest reliability is required first.

Methods

Australian adults with current driver's licences (N = 39) aged 20 to 91 years (Mage = 58) recruited from a convenience sample were assessed with DSDA. The assessment was repeated 6 weeks, 6 months, and 12 months later to match planned assessments of patients undergoing neurosurgical treatment in future research. DSDA classification, DriveSafe subtest score, and DriveAware subtest scores were analysed as a whole sample, and in three age groups.

Results

DSDA classification and DriveAware scores were consistent over repeated tests. DriveSafe scores increased between test 1 and 2 (p = .006), and thereafter no significant change from test 2 to 4. DriveSafe scores of older participants (70+ years) increased between test 1 and 2 more notably than younger participants’ scores. No DriveSafe scores decreased over time.

Conclusion

DSDA classification and DriveAware scores demonstrated test–retest reliability for all age groups. DriveSafe scores did not demonstrate test–retest reliability between test 1 and 2 for participants 70+ years. However, DriveSafe scores demonstrated test–retest reliability after test 2, possibly indicating an initial learning effect for the DriveSafe score only. The authors posit that this result may have been influenced by older adults’ reduced familiarity with iPad technology at first assessment. Further longitudinal research is required to confirm whether these results are consistent in a sample population with diagnosed cognitive impairment. Future research will assess whether repeated assessment of DSDA may be useful for monitoring and screening cognitive fitness to drive in patients who have undergone neurosurgical treatment and whether declining scores may indicate cognitive changes in ability to drive.
COVID‐19 by numbers ‐ infections, cases and deaths
Authors: Brüssow Harald
Published: December 2020

During the COVID‐19 pandemic, governments face difficult decisions when being confronted with public health threats and economic needs. Decision making is further complicated by the different perception of the pandemic by the public. Politicians as well as the public need objective facts for guidance and numbers play here a crucial role. The current contribution compiles numbers for infections, cases and deaths with SARS‐CoV‐2 to serve as an orientation help.
Comparison of DNA yield and STR profiles from the diaphysis, mid‐diaphysis, and metaphysis regions of femur and tibia long bones
Authors: Klavens Adam , Kollmann Dana D. , Elkins Kelly M. , Zeller Cynthia B.
Published: December 2020

DNA testing of human bones is performed for identification when there is no remaining soft tissue, which often means the samples are old or environmentally compromised. Under these circumstances, it can be difficult to obtain a STR DNA profile. It is important to recover the highest quantity and quality of DNA for STR typing. This study compared the DNA recovery and STR profiles from five anatomical locations in five femora and five tibiae. These locations include the proximal metaphysis, proximal diaphysis, mid‐diaphysis, distal diaphysis, and distal metaphysis. Twenty‐five femur samples and 25 tibia samples were analyzed using the Qiagen Investigator Quantiplex Pro RGQ Kit for quantitating the extracted DNA and the Qiagen Investigator 24plex QS Kit for STR DNA typing. The highest DNA recovery of the five regions tested in both the femur and the tibia was from the midshaft diaphysis. The femur samples resulted in a significantly higher DNA recovery than the tibia samples as analyzed using a Kruskal–Wallis test (P = 0.002103). The midshaft diaphysis and distal diaphysis yielded the most complete STR DNA profiles in the femora, while the distal and proximal diaphysis yielded the most complete STR DNA profiles in the tibiae. There was no correlation between the amount of DNA recovered and the completeness of the STR DNA profile produced with low template extracts in this study.
Accuracy of pelvic magnetic resonance imaging in local staging for rectal cancer: a single local health district, real world experience
Authors: Ang Zhen Hao , De Robles Marie Shella , Kang Sharlyn , Winn Robert
Published: December 2020

Background

Neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy plays a key role in reducing local recurrence rates for locally advanced rectal cancer. Pelvic magnetic resonance imaging (pMRI) is the gold standard for local clinical staging which allows clinicians to decide the treatment patients receive. A more advanced tumour or the presence of high‐risk features on pMRI mean that neoadjuvant therapy will be offered to these patients. Understanding the accuracy of pMRI in local staging for rectal cancer is therefore crucial.

Methods

A retrospective cohort analysis of the accuracy of pMRI staging in a subgroup of patients who had primary rectal cancer surgery without neoadjuvant therapy was performed. Specificity and sensitivity for T‐staging, N‐staging and presence of high‐risk features (threatened circumferential resection margin and extramural venous invasion) were calculated. Patients who had previous pelvic surgery, previous pelvic radiotherapy and previous surgery for continence were excluded.

Results

A total of 114 patients were included in the analysis. MRI accurately predicts T‐stage in 56.6% and N‐stage in 55.8%. Prediction of extramural disease was accurate in 51%. A negative circumferential resection margin was accurately predicted in 98.6% of patients. Overall adherence to reporting proforma was 15.8%.

Conclusion

Overall, this study provided valuable information about the clinical staging of patients with rectal cancer who are at an early stage within a large regional catchment area in Australia with pMRI. These results allow us to assess the accuracy of our local staging with ramifications to the clinical decisions being made in the context of the more recent trials which questioned the need for neoadjuvant chemo‐radiotherapy in all node positive patients.
Minimally invasive surgical treatment of pilomatrixoma
Authors: Bollu Bapesh Krishna , Collin Michael , Shun Albert
Published: December 2020

Background

Pilomatrixoma is a benign skin tumour often presenting as a firm irregular mass in the paediatric population. The most common site is on the head and neck. Traditionally, a wide local excision has been the method of management. We propose an incision and curettage (I&C) technique for an improved cosmetic outcome.

Methods

A retrospective review of children who underwent I&C for pilomatrixoma was done between January 2010 and June 2020. The I&C technique involved making a small incision over or near the lesion in a discrete location such as behind the hairline and removing the tumour piecemeal. Four to six weeks of routine post‐operative follow‐up was conducted. Patients and families were also subsequently contacted via a survey to assess for late recurrence, any other complications and ascertain their level of satisfaction with the outcome.

Results

Twenty lesions were removed in 11 patients over this time with a female predominance (seven) and most lesions were on the face (11). No patients had a recurrence in a mean follow‐up time of 6 years (1–10 years). All parents are very satisfied with the cosmetic result.

Conclusion

I&C may be an effective and cosmetically pleasing method to removing pilomatrixoma.