bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of aging and antioxidants on photoreactivity and phototoxicity of human melanosomes: An in vitro study
Authors: Olchawa Magdalena M. , Szewczyk Grzegorz M. , Zadlo Andrzej C. , Krzysztynska‐Kuleta Olga I. , Sarna Tadeusz J.
Published: July 2020

Aging may significantly modify antioxidant and photoprotective properties of melanin in retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). Here, photoreactivity of melanosomes (MS), isolated from younger and older human donors with and without added zeaxanthin and α‐tocopherol, was analyzed by electron paramagnetic resonance oximetry, time‐resolved singlet oxygen phosphorescence, and protein oxidation assay. The phototoxic potential of ingested melanosomes was examined in ARPE‐19 cells exposed to blue light. Phagocytosis of FITC‐labeled photoreceptor outer segments (POS) isolated from bovine retinas was determined by flow cytometry. Irradiation of cells fed MS induced significant inhibition of the specific phagocytosis with the effect being stronger for melanosomes from older than from younger human cohorts, and enrichment of the melanosomes with antioxidants reduced the inhibitory effect. Cellular protein photooxidation was more pronounced in samples containing older melanosomes, and it was diminished by antioxidants. This study suggests that blue light irradiated RPE melanosomes could induce substantial inhibition of the key function of the cells—their specific phagocytosis. The data indicate that while photoreactivity of MS and their phototoxic potential increase with age, they could be reduced by selected natural antioxidants.
Type I Photosensitized Oxidation of Methionine†
Authors: Castaño Carolina , Thomas Andrés H. , Lorente Carolina
Published: July 2020

Methionine (Met) is an essential sulfur‐containing amino acid, sensitive to oxidation. The oxidation of Met can occur by numerous pathways, including enzymatic modifications and oxidative stress, being able to cause relevant alterations in protein functionality. Under UV radiation, Met may be oxidized by direct absorption (below 250 nm) or by photosensitized reactions. Herein, kinetics of the reaction and identification of products during photosensitized oxidation were analyzed to elucidate the mechanism for the degradation of Met under UV‐A irradiation using pterins, pterin (Ptr) and 6‐methylpterin (Mep), as sensitizers. The process begins with an electron transfer from Met to the triplet‐excited state of the photosensitizer (Ptr or Mep), to yield the corresponding pair of radicals, Met radical cation (Met•+) and the radical anion of the sensitizer (Sens•−). In air‐equilibrated solutions, Met•+ incorporates one or two atoms of oxygen to yield methionine sulfoxide (MetO) and methionine sulfone (MetO2), whereas Sens•− reacts with O2 to recover the photosensitizer and generate superoxide anion (O2•−). In anaerobic conditions, further free‐radical reactions lead to the formation of the corresponding dihydropterin derivatives (H2Ptr or H2Mep).
Infectious diseases and treatment solutions of farmed greater amberjack Seriola dumerili with particular emphasis in Mediterranean region
Authors: Rigos George , Katharios Pantelis , Kogiannou Dimitra , Cascarano Chiara M.
Published: July 2020

Greater amberjack (Seriola dumerili) is a very promising candidate for the diversification of the Mediterranean aquaculture due to its high demand, excellent flesh quality and high market prices. Its production expansion has, however, failed so far, due to several bottlenecks mainly related to pathology. This review addresses the major pathogens, which hinder the culture of greater amberjack with special focus in the Mediterranean region, and highlights possible treatment solutions. Among the important recorded pathogens of caged greater amberjack in the Mediterranean, the gill monogenean Zeuxapta seriolae seems to be the most problematic, causing significant losses. While formalin immersions are inefficient to combat this parasite, baths with hydrogen peroxide are extremely effective and praziquantel administration could be a more practical in‐feed treatment solution. The digenean blood flukes, Paradeontacylix spp., also account for important losses in greater amberjack farms in the same region. Dietary administration of praziquantel constitutes an effective therapeutic measure against those infections. Vibrio harveyi is also a bacterial pathogen severely affecting fish maintained both in land‐based facilities and in cages, whereas Epitheliocystis is a disease reported frequently that can be fatal when it occurs at early stages. Skin flukes such as Benedenia seriolae and Neobenedenia girellae as well as other parasites bacteria and viruses mentioned herein, which have caused substantial losses in Asian enterprises, but have not been identified yet in greater amberjack farmed in the Mediterranean, should be considered as potential threats.
The (changing) consideration of social investment in the design of welfare benefits: The case of poverty relief in Austria
Authors: Heitzmann Karin , Matzinger Sandra
Published: July 2020

The social investment perspective has become a prominent topic in both social policy discussions and theoretical considerations regarding welfare state change. Empirical evidence on how this perspective has affected welfare state provision is much scarcer—and sometimes contradictory. This article aims to assess whether welfare state benefits increasingly have incorporated elements of social investment, and what has triggered the reforms made to the benefits. To achieve these aims, we examined two poverty relief benefits in Austria, namely, unemployment assistance and social assistance. We scrutinized changes made to these benefits from 2000 onwards. To identify their (potentially changing) contributions towards social investment, we applied a framework that considers the economic aims of the paradigm (while neglecting other aims). According to this framework, a social investment benefit intends to improve the human capital of its recipients, enhance their employability, and/or enhance their employment integration. The findings suggest that the three elements of social investment were particularly relevant in reforming social assistance. However, the changes implemented were incoherent and do not support the hypothesis of an ever‐increasing significance of social investment. The main triggers for reform were the political ideologies of (changing) governments. These ideologies determined the direction of changes made to both social assistance and unemployment assistance. If social investment thus ought to be more than just a theoretical concept or a nonbinding policy recommendation, modifications made to welfare state benefits would need to follow a more coherent path. Regarding poor relief benefits, Austria has not pursued such a track (yet).
Offering new and returned donors the option to give plasma: implications for donor retention and donor adverse events
Authors: Thijsen Amanda , Davison Tanya E. , Speedy Joanna , Hoad Veronica , Masser Barbara
Published: July 2020

Background and Objectives

In 2018, Australian Red Cross Lifeblood changed its plasmapheresis eligibility criteria to allow donors to donate plasma without the requirement of a prior successful whole blood donation. This study evaluated the impact of this policy change on donor retention and donor safety.

Materials and Methods

All donors who had attempted to give their first plasma or whole blood donation from January to June 2018 were included in this retrospective cohort study. Donor characteristics and adverse events were analysed for this index donation, and the cohort was followed for 18 months to analyse time to return, subsequent donation frequency and predictors of return.

Results

Male and younger donors provided a significantly greater proportion of first donation plasma than females and older donors. New donors who gave plasma had the highest rate of donor adverse events, including vasovagal reactions and phlebotomy injuries. Nevertheless, donor retention was not affected, with more new donors returning and at a greater subsequent donation frequency after a plasma donation compared to new donors donating whole blood. First‐time plasma donors who had previously donated whole blood, however, had greater and quicker rates of return, and more subsequent donations.

Conclusion

Offering new donors the option to give plasma had a positive effect on donor return and subsequent donation frequency. Removing the requirement of a prior whole blood donation is a viable way to increase plasma collections although the combined effect of new donor status and plasmapheresis procedure on adverse event risk needs to be considered.
Sensitivity of Thermal Predictions to Uncertain Surface Tension Data in Laser Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Coleman J. , Plotkowski A. , Stump B. , Raghavan N. , Sabau A. S. , Krane M. J. M. , Heigel J. , Ricker R. E. , Levine L. , Babu S. S.
Published: July 2020

To understand the process-microstructure relationships in additive manufacturing (AM), it is necessary to predict the solidification characteristics in the melt pool. This study investigates the influence of Marangoni driven fluid flow on the predicted melt pool geometry and solidification conditions using a continuum finite volume model. A calibrated laser absorptivity was determined by comparing the model predictions (neglecting fluid flow) against melt pool dimensions obtained from single laser melt experiments on a nickel super alloy 625 (IN625) plate. Using this calibrated efficiency, predicted melt pool geometries agree well with experiments across a range of process conditions. When fluid mechanics is considered, a surface tension gradient recommended for IN625 tends to overpredict the influence of convective heat transfer, but the use of an intermediate value reported from experimental measurements of a similar nickel super alloy produces excellent experimental agreement. Despite its significant effect on the melt pool geometry predictions, fluid flow was found to have a small effect on the predicted solidification conditions compared to processing conditions. This result suggests that under certain circumstances, a model only considering conductive heat transfer is sufficient for approximating process-microstructure relationships in laser AM. Extending the model to multiple laser passes further showed that fluid flow also has a small effect on the solidification conditions compared to the transient variations in the process. Limitations of the current model and areas of improvement, including uncertainties associated with the phenomenological model inputs are discussed.
Effect of an Exergaming-Based Dance Training Paradigm on Autonomic Nervous System Modulation in Healthy Older Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Varas-Diaz Gonzalo , Subramaniam Savitha , Delgado Larissa , Phillips Shane A. , Bhatt Tanvi
Published: July 2020

The purpose of this study was to determine if an exergaming-based dance training protocol can improve heart rate variability (HRV) in healthy older adults. A total of 20 healthy older adults (≥65 years old) were randomly assigned to two groups. The intervention group received an exergaming-based dance aerobic training for 6 weeks, while the control group received a 1-hr education on conventional physical exercises. Data obtained from HRV analysis pre- (Week 0) and postintervention (Week 7) consisted of high-frequency power, low- and high-frequency ratio, and root mean square of differences and percentage of adjacent RR intervals with a difference of duration greater than 50 ms values. HRV was assessed during rest and during a 6-min walk test. In addition, the YMCA submaximal cycle ergometer test was used to acquire estimated maximal O2 consumption pre- and postintervention. After the training, the intervention group showed significant improvement in HRV high-frequency power, root mean square of differences, and percentage of adjacent RR intervals with a difference of duration greater than 50 ms values in both rest and 6-min walk test conditions compared with the control group. Similarly, the intervention group showed higher maximal O2 consumption compared with the control group after the training. Our results support the effectiveness of an exergaming-based dance aerobic training on improving cardiac autonomic control in aging.
The Effect of Foam Rolling Versus IASTM on Knee Range of Motion, Fascial Displacement, and Patient Satisfaction
Authors: Sandrey Michelle A. , Lancellotti Cody , Hester Cory
Published: July 2020

Context: Soft tissue restrictions have been linked to poor flexibility and decreased range of motion (ROM). To decrease the soft tissue restrictions and ultimately increase ROM/flexibility, myofascial release techniques, such as foam rolling (FR) and instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM), have been used. However, the benefit regarding which technique is more beneficial remains unknown. Objective: To examine the effects of myofascial release techniques (FR vs the instrumented portion of IASTM) on knee joint ROM, rectus femoris (RF) and biceps femoris (BF) fascial displacement, and patient satisfaction. Design: Randomized controlled clinical trial. Setting: Mid-Atlantic University. Participants: Twenty moderately active participants (age 21.1 [2.0] y) with variable levels of soft tissue restriction in the quadriceps and hamstrings started and completed the study. Participants were randomly assigned to 2 groups, FR or IASTM. Interventions: All participants completed the same warm-up prior to the intervention. The FR group followed the proper FR protocol for gluteals/iliotibial band, quadriceps, and hamstrings/adductors, and the participants were monitored while the protocol was completed. The IASTM group received treatment on the gluteals/iliotibial band followed by the quadriceps, adductors, and hamstrings. Participants in both groups attended intervention sessions twice per week for 3 weeks. Prior to the start, knee ROM measurements were taken, along with fascial displacement measured via ultrasound. Upon completion of the study, posttest measurements were completed. A patient satisfaction survey was also administered at this time. Main Outcome Measures: Pretest to posttest knee ROM measurements, RF and BF fascial displacement, and patient satisfaction. Results: Both groups improved pretest to posttest for knee-extension ROM, with a slight trend toward increased knee-extension ROM for the FR group. Both groups improved pretest to posttest for BF and RF fascial displacement, in favor of the IASTM group for BF fascial displacement. Both groups were equally satisfied. Conclusions: As both groups improved pretest to posttest, either treatment could be used.
Implementation of the Teaching Personal and Social Responsibility Model to Reduce Violent and Disruptive Behaviors in Adolescents Through Physical Activity: A Quantitative Approach
Authors: Sánchez-Alcaraz Bernardino J. , Gómez-Mármol Alberto , Valero-Valenzuela Alfonso , Courel-Ibáñez Javier
Published: July 2020

Purpose: To investigate how a physical activity education program based on the teaching personal and social responsibility (TPSR) model affected disruptive behaviors in teenagers. Method: A total of 338 students (13–15 years old) from the 672 recruited completed a 4-month TPSR-model-based program during their physical education lessons. Disruptive behavior was recorded through systematic observation. Results: The students from the TPSR-model-based group reduced their violent behaviors (physical aggressions, verbal aggressions, interrupting, and total behaviors) after the intervention, whereas the control group remained the same. Conclusions: The TPSR school-based intervention was efficient in improving coexistence in terms of decreasing violent behaviors (physical and verbal aggressions) and undisciplined behaviors (continual interruptions of lessons) in students. The novel approach used to objectively assess emerging behaviors enriched the quality and validity of the quantitative data. Future research should address the use of objective assessment when conducting TPSR-model-based programs.
Higher-Order Factors and Measurement Equivalence of the Spectrum of Teaching Styles’ Questionnaire Across Two Cultures
Authors: Syrmpas Ioannis , Papaioannou Athanasios , Digelidis Nikolaos , Erturan Gokce , Byra Mark
Published: July 2020

Purpose: This study aimed to test the invariance of perceptions of the Spectrum teaching styles across Turkish and Greek preservice physical education teachers and to examine whether the styles could be classified into two clusters through self-determination theory. Greek (n = 298) and Turkish (n = 300) preservice teachers participated. Method: Cothran, Kulinna, and Ward’s questionnaire based on teachers’ use of and beliefs about teaching styles was used to examine their perceptions of the styles. Results: Confirmatory factor analysis revealed 11 factor indices and parameter estimates, suggesting that the 11-factor model fit the data. Multigroup confirmatory factor analysis established metric measurement invariance across samples. Multigroup confirmatory factor analysis showed that, for all higher-order models, the minimum requirement for invariance factor loading was met. The model comparison revealed that the styles could be categorized into four clusters from less to more autonomy-oriented. Conclusion: These findings might be useful to practitioners who want to use teaching styles in the promotion of students’ motivation in physical education.
The Influence of a Master’s Degree on the Socialization of Two Physical Education Professionals
Authors: Gaudreault Karen Lux , Richards K. Andrew R. , Simonton Kelly , Simonton Angela
Published: July 2020

Purpose: Building on research surrounding the occupational socialization of physical educators, scholars have begun asking questions about how physical educators are socialized within graduate programs both at the master’s and doctoral levels. As a part of a larger longitudinal investigation, the purpose of this study was to understand how participation in a research-focused masters’ program influenced the socialization of one in-service practitioner and one doctoral student over the 2-year period following degree completion. Method: Data sources included telephone focus group interviews, text message communication, and e-mail discussions. Data were analyzed inductively. Results: The data analysis resulted in the construction of the following themes: (a) developing independence, (b) enhanced theoretical knowledge, and (c) frustration and disenchantment with the profession. Discussion/Conclusion: The results of this study highlight the importance of leadership opportunities for doctoral candidates and beginning teachers, and the significance of relationship building for professional development.
Five-Year Survey (2014 to 2018) of Azole Resistance in Environmental
Aspergillus fumigatus
Isolates from China
Authors: Cao Duantao , Wu Ruilin , Dong Suxia , Wang Feiyan , Ju Chao , Yu Sumei , Xu Shiji , Fang Hua , Yu Yunlong
Published: July 2020

A total of 191 soil samples from Hangzhou, China, were submitted to detect non-wild-type (non-WT)
Aspergillus fumigatus
and its associated mechanisms. There were 2 (4.7%), 13 (12.4%), and 31 (23.1%) isolates identified as non-WT in 2014, 2016, and 2018, respectively. The resistant mutations of TR34/L98H, TR46/Y121F/T289A, and TR34/L98H/S297T/F495I were found in 3, 5, and 5 non-WT isolates. The G448S mutation, previously only found in clinical settings, was detected in
A. fumigatus
from soil samples.
Effect of Sub-MICs of Macrolides on the Sensitivity of Pseudomonas aeruginosa to Nitrosative Stress: Effectiveness against P. aeruginosa with and without Multidrug Resistance
Authors: Shimizu Takeshi , Miyoshi-Akiyama Tohru , Ogura Kohei , Murata Shota , Ishige Shota , Kai Kiyohiro , Mitsutsuka Konosuke , Tomita Haruyoshi , Tanimoto Koichi , Matsumoto Akio
Published: July 2020

Sub-MICs of the 14-membered macrolides erythromycin (EM) and clarithromycin (CAM) decreased the growth ofPseudomonas aeruginosaPAO1 and increased its sensitivity to endogenous and exogenous nitrosative stress. However, a 16-membered macrolide, josamycin (JM), was not or less effective. In 9 of 13 non-multidrug-resistantP. aeruginosa(non-MDRP) and 9 of 27 MDRP ST235 strains, the sub-MIC of EM induced significant reductions in bacterial numbers following treatment with a nitric oxide donor.
Functional Characterization of the Pseudomonas aeruginosa Ribosome Hibernation-Promoting Factor
Authors: Franklin Michael J. , Sandvik Elizabeth , Yanardag Sila , Williamson Kerry S.
Published: July 2020

In most environments, bacteria experience conditions where nutrients may be readily abundant or where nutrients are limited. Under nutrient limitation conditions, even non-spore-forming bacteria may enter a dormant state. Dormancy is accompanied by a variety of cellular physiological changes that are required for the cells to remain viable during dormancy and to resuscitate when nutrients become available. Among the physiological changes that occur in dormant bacteria is the inactivation and preservation of ribosomes by the dormancy protein, hibernation-promoting factor (HPF). In this study, we characterized the activity of HPF of
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
, an opportunistic pathogen that causes persistent infections, and analyzed the role of HPF in ribosome protection and bacterial survival during dormancy.
Extramedullary haematopoiesis presenting as a periportal mass
Authors: Rafiee Faranak , Haseli Sara , Jafari Seyed Hamed , Iranpour Pooya
Published: July 2020

Extramedullary haematopoiesis (EMH) is defined as haematopoiesis occurring in organs outside the bone marrow. The liver is one of the rare sites of EMH, and to the best of our knowledge, a few cases of adult EMH of the liver have been reported in the last 20 years. Here, we reported the case of a 68-year-old man with a known history of myelofibrosis presented with vague abdominal pain. An abdominal CT scan showed a hypoattenuating periportal mass encasing the portal vein. The final diagnosis of EMH was made through the histopathological examination. This is a rare presentation of EMH, which may be easily mistaken for other pathologies such as metastases. Familiarity with this type of presentation aids in correctly diagnosing it in an appropriate clinical setting.
Hospital-based chronic disease care model: protocol for an effectiveness and implementation evaluation
Authors: Sumner Jennifer , Phua Jason , Lim Yee Wei
Published: July 2020

Introduction

Novel and efficient healthcare approaches are needed to better serve increasingly older chronic disease patients. Many effective integrated chronic disease management strategies have emerged from the primary care sector. However, in many Asian and developing countries, primary care is underdeveloped, and patients prefer secondary-based services. The Integrated Generalist-led Hospital (IGH) care model is a new approach, which may be better suited for chronic disease patients in the local context.

Methods and analysis

A hybrid type I study on the effectiveness and implementation of the IGH care model will be conducted. Implementation evaluation will be informed by the Consolidated Framework of Implementation Research (CFIR). Quantitative and qualitative data will be collected through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with staff, a staff survey, patient interviews, clinical outcomes and cost data. Clinical outcomes include the length of stay, readmission, emergency room visit rate and mortality. Clinical outcomes will be summarised and compared with a propensity-matched ‘usual care’ group (derived from the general medicine ward(s) at a separate hospital). The Kaplan-Meier approach will be used to estimate time until death and time until first readmission (both within 30 days of discharge) and time until discharge. Multivariate regression models will be used to investigate the association between the care model and occurrence of readmission, emergency room visit and death, all within 30 days of discharge. Qualitative data will be analysed using a thematic analysis method. Qualitative and quantitative data will also be coded according to the five domains of the CFIR.

Ethics and dissemination

This protocol was reviewed and approved by the National Healthcare Group Domain Specific Review Board (NHG DSRB 2019/00308). Results will be published in peer-reviewed scientific journals and conference presentations. Findings will also be discussed with key stakeholders through local dissemination events.
Artificial intelligence mobile health platform for early detection of COVID-19 in quarantine subjects using a wearable biosensor: protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Wong Chun Ka , Ho Deborah Tip Yin , Tam Anthony Raymond , Zhou Mi , LAU Yuk Ming , Tang Milky Oi Yan , Tong Raymond Cheuk Fung , Rajput Kuldeep Singh , Chen Gengbo , Chan Soon Chee , SIU Chung Wah , Hung Ivan Fan Ngai
Published: July 2020

Introduction

There is an outbreak of COVID-19 worldwide. As there is no effective therapy or vaccine yet, rigorous implementation of traditional public health measures such as isolation and quarantine remains the most effective tool to control the outbreak. When an asymptomatic individual with COVID-19 exposure is being quarantined, it is necessary to perform temperature and symptom surveillance. As such surveillance is intermittent in nature and highly dependent on self-discipline, it has limited effectiveness. Advances in biosensor technologies made it possible to continuously monitor physiological parameters using wearable biosensors with a variety of form factors.

Objective

To explore the potential of using wearable biosensors to continuously monitor multidimensional physiological parameters for early detection of COVID-19 clinical progression.

Method

This randomised controlled open-labelled trial will involve 200–1000 asymptomatic subjects with close COVID-19 contact under mandatory quarantine at designated facilities in Hong Kong. Subjects will be randomised to receive a remote monitoring strategy (intervention group) or standard strategy (control group) in a 1:1 ratio during the 14 day-quarantine period. In addition to fever and symptom surveillance in the control group, subjects in the intervention group will wear wearable biosensors on their arms to continuously monitor skin temperature, respiratory rate, blood pressure, pulse rate, blood oxygen saturation and daily activities. These physiological parameters will be transferred in real time to a smartphone application called Biovitals Sentinel. These data will then be processed using a cloud-based multivariate physiology analytics engine called Biovitals to detect subtle physiological changes. The results will be displayed on a web-based dashboard for clinicians’ review. The primary outcome is the time to diagnosis of COVID-19.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval has been obtained from institutional review boards at the study sites. Results will be published in peer-reviewed journals.
Patients aged 80 years or older with non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction or unstable angina pectoris randomised to an invasive versus conservative strategy: angiographic and procedural results from the After Eighty study
Authors: Tegn Nicolai , Eek Christian , Abdelnoor Michael , Aaberge Lars , Endresen Knut , Skårdal Rita , Berg Erlend Sturle , Gullestad Lars , Bendz Bjørn
Published: July 2020

Objectives

We aimed to report the angiographic and procedural results of the After Eighty study (ClinicalTrials.gov,NCT01255540), and to identify independent predictors of revascularisation.

Methods

Patients of ≥80 years old with non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction and unstable angina pectoris were randomised to an invasive or conservative strategy. Angiographic and procedural results were recorded. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to explore variables predicting revascularisation.

Results

Among 229 patients in the invasive group, 220 underwent immediate coronary angiography (90% performed via the radial artery). Of these patients, 48% had three-vessel disease or left main stenosis, 18% two-vessel disease, 16% one-vessel disease, 17% minor coronary vessel wall changes and two patients had normal coronary arteries. Six patients (3%) underwent coronary artery bypass graft. Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) was performed in 107 patients (49%), with 57% treated with bare metal stents, 37% drug-eluting stents and 6% balloon angioplasty. On average, 1.7 lesions were treated and 2 stents delivered per patient. Complications included 1 major PCI-related bleeding (successfully treated), 2 minor access site-related bleedings, 3 side branch occlusions during PCI and 11 periprocedural myocardial infarctions (considered end points). Sex, bundle branch block and smoking were independent predictors of revascularisation.

Conclusions

PCI was performed in approximately half of the patients, similar to findings in younger populations. Procedural success was high, with few complications.

Trial registration number

NCT01255540
Prehospital opioid dose and myocardial injury in patients with ST elevation myocardial infarction
Authors: Fernando Himawan , Nehme Ziad , Peter Karlheinz , Bernard Stephen , Stephenson Michael , Bray Janet , Cameron Peter , Ellims Andris , Taylor Andrew , Kaye David M , Smith Karen , Stub Dion
Published: July 2020

Objective

To characterise the relationship between opioid dose and myocardial infarct size in patients with ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

Methods

Patients given opioid treatment by emergency medical services with confirmed STEMI were included in this secondary, retrospective cohort analysis of the Air versus Oxygen in Myocardial Infarction (AVOID) study. Patients with cardiogenic shock were excluded. The primary endpoint was comparison of cardiac biomarkers as a measure of infarct size based on opioid dose (low ≤8.75 mg, intermediate 8.76–15 mg and high >15 mg of intravenous morphine equivalent dose).

Results

422 patients were included in the analysis. There was a significantly higher proportion of patients with Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) 0 or 1 flow pre-percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) (94% vs 81%, p=0.005) and greater use of thrombus aspiration catheters (59% vs 30%, p<0.001) in the high compared with low-dose opioid group. After adjustment for potential confounders, every 1 mg of intravenous morphine equivalent dose was associated with a 1.4% (95% CI 0.2%, 2.7%, p=0.028) increase in peak creatine kinase; however, this was no longer significant after adjustment for TIMI flow pre-PCI.

Conclusions

Our study suggests no benefit of higher opioid dose and a dose-dependent signal between opioid dose and increased myocardial infarct size. Prospective randomised controlled trials are required to establish causality given that this may also be explained by patients with a greater ischaemic burden requiring higher opioid doses due to more severe pain. Future research also needs to focus on strategies to mitigate the opioid–P2Y12 inhibitor interaction and non-opioid analgesia to treat ischaemic chest pain.
Whey protein supplementation and its potentially adverse effects on health: a systematic review
Authors: Vasconcelos Quezia Damaris Jones Severino , Bachur Tatiana Paschoalette Rodrigues , Aragão Gislei Frota
Published: July 2020

Whey protein comprises soluble whey proteins and its benefits are well described in the literature. However, there are not many studies investigating the potential adverse effect of a diet with indiscriminate use of this supplement. The aim of this study was to perform a systematic review of papers that addressed this theme. A search was conducted in Medline, LILACS, TOXNET, Web of science, and Scopus electronic databases. In the end, 11 documents comprised this review. The majority of the papers associated the damaging effect with the chronic and abusive use of whey protein, with the kidneys and liver being the main organs affected. The other studies related whey protein to aggravation of aggression, presence of acne, and modification of the microbiota. Therefore, excessive consumption over a long period of protein supplementation may have some adverse effects on the body, which is aggravated when associated with sedentary lifestyle. PROSPERO registration no.: CRD42020140466.

Novelty: A systematic review of experimental and randomized studies about the use of whey proteins supplements and its impact on physical health. Analysis revealed that chronic and without professional guidance use of whey protein supplementation may cause some adverse effects specially on kidney and liver function. Presented data support a need for future studies co-relating the use of different types of whey protein with and without exercise to better see the impact on human physical health.
The role of spin–orbit effects in the mobility of N+ ions moving in a helium gas at low temperature
Authors: Aïssaoui Lamia , Knowles Peter J. , Bouledroua Moncef
Published: July 2020

The mobility of N+ ions in ground-state helium gas at very low temperature is examined with explicit inclusion of spin–orbit coupling effects. The ionic kinetics is treated theoretically with the three-temperature model. The N+–He interaction potentials, including spin–orbit coupling, are determined using high-level ab initio calculations. Then, the classical and quantal transport cross sections, both needed in the computation of the mobility coefficients, are calculated in terms of the collisional energy of the N+–He system. The numerical results, at temperature 4.3 K, show the spin–orbit interactions have negligible effect on the mobility coefficients.

Graphical abstract
The structure, and electronic and magnetic properties of MX (M=GA, IN; X=S, SE, TE) nanoribbons
Authors: Feng Fei , Lv Fengdong , Zheng Gongping , Wang Guangtao
Published: July 2020

We used the first principle of density functional theory to perform detailed calculations regarding the structure, and the electronic and magnetic properties of MX (M[Formula: see text]=[Formula: see text]Ga, In; X[Formula: see text]=[Formula: see text]S, Se, Te) nanoribbons. The armchair nanoribbons (ARNs) are nonmagnetic semiconductors, which have even or odd oscillations of bandgaps. All small-sized zigzag nanoribbons (ZRNs) were found to break the six-membered ring structure and move to the center, thereby exhibiting nonmagnetic semiconductor behavior owing to the quantum confinement effect. However, among the large ZRNs, which are all metals, MTe ZRNs are nonmagnetic; this differs from the case of graphene, MoS2 and Ti2CO2 nanoribbons. MX (M[Formula: see text]=[Formula: see text]Ga, In; X[Formula: see text]=[Formula: see text]S, Se) ZRNs exhibited ferromagnetism owing to the presence of the unpaired electrons on the metal-edge side and the magnetic moment of each pair of molecules, which was controlled by the size of the nanoribbons. The results provided a theoretical reference that can be used in the future to produce MX materials for application in low-dimensional semiconductor devices, spin electron transport devices and new magnetoresistance devices.
Dynamics and Stability Analysis of Rotating Cylindrical Shells in Annular Fluid Medium
Authors: Abdollahi R. , Firouz-Abadi R. D. , Rahmanian M.
Published: July 2020

Stability and dynamics of rotating coaxial cylindrical shells conveying incompressible and inviscid fluid are investigated. The interior shell is assumed to be flexible while the exterior cylinder is rigid. Using Sander’s–Koiter theory assumptions and following Hamilton’s principle, governing equations of motion are determined in their integral form. Employing the extended Galerkin method of solution, the integral equations of motion are projected to their equivalent system of algebraic equations. Fluid equations are fundamentally based on the linearized inviscid Navier–Stokes equations. Impermeability condition on the fluid and structure interface as well as the zero radial velocity component on the exterior shell give the coupled equations of motion governing the dynamics of fluid-loaded coaxial cylindrical shells. Using the coupled fluid–structural model, stability boundaries are determined for the rotating interior shell. Various parameter studies are conducted and effects of mass ratio, gap distance between the interior and exterior shells, boundary conditions of the interior shell, length to radius ratio on the stability margins are thoroughly investigated and reported.
ClusterMine: A knowledge-integrated clustering approach based on expression profiles of gene sets
Authors: Li Hong-Dong , Xu Yunpei , Zhu Xiaoshu , Liu Quan , Omenn Gilbert S. , Wang Jianxin
Published: July 2020

Clustering analysis of gene expression data is essential for understanding complex biological data, and is widely used in important biological applications such as the identification of cell subpopulations and disease subtypes. In commonly used methods such as hierarchical clustering (HC) and consensus clustering (CC), holistic expression profiles of all genes are often used to assess the similarity between samples for clustering. While these methods have been proven successful in identifying sample clusters in many areas, they do not provide information about which gene sets (functions) contribute most to the clustering, thus limiting the interpretability of the resulting cluster. We hypothesize that integrating prior knowledge of annotated gene sets would not only achieve satisfactory clustering performance but also, more importantly, enable potential biological interpretation of clusters. Here we report ClusterMine, an approach that identifies clusters by assessing functional similarity between samples through integrating known annotated gene sets in functional annotation databases such as Gene Ontology. In addition to the cluster membership of each sample as provided by conventional approaches, it also outputs gene sets that most likely contribute to the clustering, thus facilitating biological interpretation. We compare ClusterMine with conventional approaches on nine real-world experimental datasets that represent different application scenarios in biology. We find that ClusterMine achieves better performances and that the gene sets prioritized by our method are biologically meaningful. ClusterMine is implemented as an R package and is freely available at: www.genemine.org/clustermine.php
ENTREPRENEURIAL ALERTNESS AND PRODUCT INNOVATIVENESS: FIRM-LEVEL AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONTINGENCIES
Authors: ADOMAKO SAMUEL
Published: July 2020

Although scholars have recognised that alertness is critical in identifying and exploring opportunities, empirical studies exploring when alertness drives innovation are lacking. Drawing insights from the cognitive and contingency perspectives, this study addresses this gap by arguing that variations in firm product innovativeness are a function of the degree of entrepreneurial alertness and levels of internal firm capabilities and environmental conditions. Data were collected from 385 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Ghana. This study used the hierarchical regression estimation technique to analyses the data and found a significant positive relationship between entrepreneurial alertness and firm product innovativeness. Moreover, the findings showed that entrepreneurial alertness is beneficial for firms to innovate when pressures from customers and competitors are intense. Finally, the results revealed that stronger market information sharing and technological opportunism also amplify the alertness-innovativeness relationship.
Study of Amperometric Response of Guaiacol Biosensor Using Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes with Laccase Immobilized
Authors: Uc-Cayetano E. G. , Villanueva-Mena I. E. , Estrella-Gutiérrez M. A. , Ordóñez L. C. , Aké-Uh O. E. , Sánchez-González M. N.
Published: July 2020

Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes (MWCNTs) were used as a support of amperometric enzymatic biosensors of guaiacol. The structural quality of MWCNTs was determined for Raman Spectra and DRX analysis. MWCNTs were decorated with iron oxide nanoparticles (36 w/w%), which were observed by FE-SEM, and were confirmed by with EDX, and TGA analysis. Laccase enzyme (aspergillus sp.) was immobilized on the surface of MWCNTs (oxidized and decorated with iron oxide nanoparticles) confirmed by XPS analysis and used to amperometric detection of guaiacol. The material obtained was deposited on the active surface of glassy carbon electrode (GCE) and was carried out using a typical three-electrode system with saturated calomel electrode as a reference and a graphite rod as a counter-electrode. The results confirm the potential use of bioelectrode Lac/MWCNTs/GCE and Lac/Fe3O4/MWCNTs/GCE for the guaiacol detection in low concentrations. Amperometric sensitivities and detection limits of Lac/Fe3O4/MWCNTs/GCE bioelectrode (110.186 μA mMcm−2 and 34.301 nM for reduction current respectively) showed better results than Lac/MWCNTs/GCE bioelectrode in a linear range 0–0.066 μM of guaiacol.
NIRS-derived skeletal muscle oxidative capacity is correlated with aerobic fitness and independent of sex
Authors: Beever Austin T. , Tripp Thomas R. , Zhang Jenny , MacInnis Martin J.
Published: July 2020

Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) can be used to measure skeletal muscle oxidative capacity. Here, we demonstrated that NIRS-derived skeletal muscle oxidative capacity of the vastus lateralis was independent of sex, reliable across and within days, and correlated with maximal and submaximal indices of aerobic fitness, including maximal oxygen uptake, lactate threshold, and respiratory compensation point. These findings highlight the utility of NIRS for investigating skeletal muscle oxidative capacity in females and males.
Minimizing airflow turbulence in women lowers the work of breathing to levels similar to men
Authors: Mann Leah M. , Granger Emily A. , Chan Jason S. , Yu Annie , Molgat-Seon Yannick , Dominelli Paolo B.
Published: July 2020

When healthy young women breathe heliox gas during exercise, their work of breathing is not different from men breathing room air. Heliox inspiration reduces airway resistance and promotes laminar flow, which is a physiologically similar effect of increasing airway size. Our findings provide experimental evidence that smaller airways in women are responsible for the greater work of breathing during exercise.
Geographic components of SARS-CoV-2 expansion: a hypothesis
Authors: Joyce Kelsey E. , Weaver Samuel R. , Lucas Samuel J. E.
Published: July 2020

The emergence of COVID-19 infection (caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus) in Wuhan, China in the latter part of 2019 has, within a relatively short time, led to a global pandemic. Amidst the initial spread of SARS-CoV-2 across Asia, an epidemiologic trend emerged in relation to high altitude (HA) populations. Compared with the rest of Asia, SARS-CoV-2 exhibited attenuated rates of expansion with limited COVID-19 infection severity along the Tibetan plateau. These characteristics were soon evident in additional HA regions across Bolivia, central Ecuador, Nepal, Bhutan, and the Sichuan province of mainland China. This mini-review presents a discussion surrounding attributes of the HA environment, aspects of HA physiology, as well as, genetic variations among HA populations which may provide clues for this pattern of SARS-CoV-2 expansion and COVID-19 infection severity. Explanations are provided in the hypothetical, albeit relevant historical evidence is provided to create a foundation for future research.
Computed Tomography (CT) Imaging Features of Patients with COVID-19: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Awulachew Ephrem , Diriba Kuma , Anja Asrat , Getu Eyob , Belayneh Firehiwot
Published: July 2020

Introduction. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a highly contagious disease, and its first outbreak was reported in Wuhan, China. A coronavirus disease (COVID-19) causes severe respiratory distress (ARDS). Due to the primary involvement of the respiratory system, chest CT is strongly recommended in suspected COVID-19 cases, for both initial evaluation and follow-up. Objective. The aim of this review was to systematically analyze the existing literature on CT imaging features of patients with COVID-19 pneumonia. Methods. A systematic search was conducted on PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Open Access Journals (OAJ), and Google Scholar databases until April 15, 2020. All articles with a report of CT findings in COVID-19 patients published in English from the onset of COVID-19 outbreak to April 20, 2020, were included in the study. Result. From a total of 5041 COVID-19-infected patients, about 98% (4940/5041) had abnormalities in chest CT, while about 2% have normal chest CT findings. Among COVID-19 patients with abnormal chest CT findings, 80% (3952/4940) had bilateral lung involvement. Ground-glass opacity (GGO) and mixed GGO with consolidation were observed in 2482 (65%) and 768 (18%) patients, respectively. Consolidations were detected in 1259 (22%) patients with COVID-19 pneumonia. CT images also showed interlobular septal thickening in about 691 (27%) patients. Conclusion. Frequent involvement of bilateral lung infections, ground-glass opacities, consolidation, crazy paving pattern, air bronchogram signs, and intralobular septal thickening were common CT imaging features of patients with COVID-19 pneumonia.
The Association between the Frequency of Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment and Atmospheric Temperature
Authors: Kim Dong Yoon , Hwang Hyeseong , Kim Jae-Hyung , Moon Byung Gil , Hyung Sung Min , Kim Jin Young , Chae Ju Byung
Published: July 2020

Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) frequency was observed to be higher with an increase in the daily temperature range. This showed that a wide daily range of temperature, rather than the absolute value of the temperature, is associated with the occurrence of RRD.Purpose. To investigate the association between the frequency of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) and the atmospheric temperature.Method. A retrospective review of consecutive eyes that had undergone primary RRD surgery from 1996 to 2016 at Chungbuk National University Hospital was conducted. Temperature data (highest, lowest, and mean daily temperatures and daily temperature range) in Chungbuk Province were obtained from the Korean Meteorological Administration database. We investigated the relationship between the daily temperature range and the frequency of RRD surgery. We also analyzed the association between various temperature data and the frequency of RRD surgery.Result. There were 1,394 RRD surgeries from 1996 to 2016. Among them, 974 eyes were included in this study. The monthly average number of RRD operations showed a bimodal peak (in April and October) throughout the year. With the same tendency as the frequency of RRD, the monthly average of the daily temperature range over 1 year also showed a bimodal peak in April and October. There was a significant positive correlation between the monthly average of the daily temperature range and the number of RRD surgeries (r = 0.297,P<0.001). However, there were no associations between RRD frequency and the mean temperature, highest temperature, and lowest temperature.Conclusion. The higher the daily temperature range, the higher was the RRD frequency observed. We speculated that dynamic changes in temperature during the day may affect degrees in chorioretinal adhesion and liquefaction of the vitreous, which may eventually result in retinal detachment. Therefore, further experimental studies on the correlation between temperature changes and retinal detachment are needed.