bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Determining MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 reductive activities of bovine and equine amniotic membranes homogenates using fluorescence resonance energy transfer
Authors: Capistrano da Silva Erotides , Gibson Daniel J. , Jeong Sunyoung , Zimmerman Kelli L. , Smith‐Fleming Kathryn M. , Martins Bianca da C. 
Published: April 2021

AbstractIntroductionMatrix metalloproteinases (MMPs)‐2 and ‐9 are present in corneal ulcers, and an imbalance between MMPs and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) leads to further corneal degradation. Amniotic membrane homogenate (AMH) has proteolytic properties beneficial for corneal healing, but it is unknown whether AMH possesses TIMPs or effectively inhibits MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 activity.ObjectiveTo determine if bovine and equine AMH reduce in vitro MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 activities associated with the presence of TIMPs.ProceduresUndiluted and diluted twofold series (0‐fold to 16‐fold dilutions) of equine amniotic membrane homogenates (EAMH, n = 8) and bovine amniotic membrane homogenates (BAMH, n = 8) were subjected to fluorescence resonance energy transfer, and the fluorescence emitted was recorded over time. Average fluorescence was calculated versus recombinant concentration. Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays for TIMPs 1–4 were applied to quantify TIMPs in the samples.ResultsAMH from both species were able to inhibit MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 activities in vitro, and the inhibition efficacy decreased gradually with dilution. BAMH was significantly more effective than EAMH at inhibiting MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 in vitro. TIMPs −2 and −3 were present in EAMH and BAMH. TIMP‐1 was detected only in BAMH, and TIMP‐4 was not detected in any samples.ConclusionBoth EAMH and BAMH directly inhibited MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 in vitro without dilution, and BAMH showed better inhibition of MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 before and after dilution compared to EAMH.
Inequality averse and compassionate blood donor: implication for interventions
Authors: Ferguson Eamonn 
Published: April 2021

Background and objectivesBlood donors, compared to non‐donors, are more likely to show a preference to help others either by sharing resources todirectlycompensate those in need orindirectlyby punishing those who act unfairly. Knowing the dominant cooperative preference for blood donors will inform the development of targeted interventions. We test which preference dominates and an initial intervention based on these findings.Materials and methodsWe report two studies. The first compares compensation and punishment preferences in blood donors and non‐donors (N = 372) using a third‐party‐compensation‐and‐punishment game. Based on the results of Study 1, Study 2 (N = 151) is a feasibility experiment of an intervention based on advantageous inequality aversion (‘As a healthy person, you can give blood and help those less healthy than you’.).ResultsBlood donors, compared to non‐donors, have a preference for compensation. Organ donors have a preference for punishment. Those exposed to the advantageous inequality aversion intervention, compared to control conditions, show a greater behavioural propensity to donate blood (this was especially the case for non‐donors).ConclusionBlood donors have a clear preference for direct helping through compensation that can be translated into a simple effective intervention to enhance blood donor recruitment and retention.
Blood donation in times of crisis: Early insight into the impact of COVID‐19 on blood donors and their motivation to donate across European countries
Authors: Chandler Torsten , Neumann‐Böhme Sebastian , Sabat Iryna , Barros Pedro Pita , Brouwer Werner , van Exel Job , Schreyögg Jonas , Torbica Aleksandra , Stargardt Tom 
Published: April 2021

BackgroundIn this survey, we aimed to provide early insight into the impact of COVID‐19 on blood donors and their motivation to donate during the crisis.Study design and methodsWe asked representative samples in 7 European countries (Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Portugal, the Netherlands and the UK) about their blood donation activity and motivation to donate using an online survey. We analysed donor turnout during the COVID‐19 period descriptively and using logistic regression.ResultsOf the 7122 people that responded to the survey, 1205 (16·9%) blood donors were identified, with 33·8% donating during the first 4–5 months of the COVID‐19 period. We observed that around half of donors donated less than normal. The vast majority of donors that did donate made a special effort to do so in response to COVID‐19. The majority of donors were also not aware of their blood being tested for COVID‐19 antibodies. Although the perceived risk of infection among all respondents whilst donating blood was relatively low, those who anticipated a high risk of infection were much less likely to donate (OR = 0·540; P‐value = 0·006). Furthermore, those that were adherent to COVID guidelines were also less likely to donate (OR = 0·583; P‐value = 0·000).DiscussionWe suggest that blood collection services consider specialist campaigns that focus on the altruistic motivation of donors during the crisis and that they continue to communicate the additional safety measures in place with the aim of reducing the fear of infection whilst donating blood.
Preservation of neutralizing antibody function in COVID‐19 convalescent plasma treated using a riboflavin and ultraviolet light‐based pathogen reduction technology
Authors: Yonemura Susan , Hartson Lindsay , Dutt Taru S. , Henao‐Tamayo Marcela , Goodrich Raymond , Marschner Susanne 
Published: April 2021

Background and objectivesConvalescent plasma (CP) has been embraced as a safe therapeutic option for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19), while other treatments are developed. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) is not transmissible by transfusion, but bloodborne pathogens remain a risk in regions with high endemic prevalence of disease. Pathogen reduction can mitigate this risk; thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of riboflavin and ultraviolet light (R + UV) pathogen reduction technology on the functional properties of COVID‐19 CP (CCP).Materials and methodsCOVID‐19 convalescent plasma units (n = 6) from recovered COVID‐19 research donors were treated with R + UV. Pre‐ and post‐treatment samples were tested for coagulation factor and immunoglobulin retention. Antibody binding to spike protein receptor‐binding domain (RBD), S1 and S2 epitopes of SARS‐CoV‐2 was assessed by ELISA. Neutralizing antibody (nAb) function was assessed by pseudovirus reporter viral particle neutralization (RVPN) assay and plaque reduction neutralization test (PRNT).ResultsMean retention of coagulation factors was ≥70%, while retention of immunoglobulins was 100%. Starting nAb titres were low, but PRNT50 titres did not differ between pre‐ and post‐treatment samples. No statistically significant differences were detected in levels of IgG (P ≥ 0·3665) and IgM (P ≥ 0·1208) antibodies to RBD, S1 and S2 proteins before and after treatment.ConclusionR + UV PRT effects on coagulation factors were similar to previous reports, but no significant effects were observed on immunoglobulin concentration and antibody function. SARS‐CoV‐2 nAb function in CCP is conserved following R + UV PRT treatment.
A Distribution Method of Driving Torque for a Novel 3UPS-RR Redundant Solar Tracker
Authors: Cui Hengchun , Wu Jun , Li Qi 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
This paper proposes a novel two-axis solar tracker with a redundant parallel mechanism and investigates the distribution method of driving torque. In view of the difference between the singular configuration of the redundant parallel mechanisms and that of the corresponding non-redundant ones, an index related to the minimum singular value of the Jacobian matrix is used to indicate the position of the singular configuration relative to the boundaries of the required workspace. The driving torque and energy consumption can be optimized with this index. Based on the fact that the direction of driving torque is opposite to that of rotor in most of the running processes, a distribution method of driving torque with the minimum energy consumption for the redundant parallel solar tracker is proposed. The distribution method is compared with the minimum norm solution which is adopted by the conventional redundant parallel mechanism. And energy consumption can be significantly reduced by adopting this method. In addition, the workspace and energy consumption of the redundant solar tracker and its non-redundant counterpart are compared. The results show that the redundant solar tracker has a larger workspace and lower energy consumption.
Design of Robotic Motion Platform Utilizing Continuous Contact Skating
Authors: Kumar Rajesh , Gupta Varan , Agarwal Shantnav , Khatait Jitendra P. 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
The continuous contact-based skating technique utilizes the sideway movement of the two skates while changing the orientation of the two skates simultaneously. The skates remain in contact with the surface. A mathematical model mimicking a continuous skating technique is developed to analyze the kinematic behavior of the platform. Kinematic and dynamic equations of motion are derived for the nonholonomic constraints. Heuristic-based motion primitives are defined to steer the robotic platform. For the lateral movement of the platform, a creeping-based motion primitive is proposed. A prototype of the robotic platform is developed with three actuated degrees-of-freedom—orientation of two skates and distance between them. A multibody model of the platform is also developed in matlab. Analytical expressions are verified using simulation and experiments. The robotic platform follows the desired motion profiles. The motion profiles include straight-line motion, motion in a circular curve, and lateral creep-like motion of the platform. However, the initial deviation has been observed in both the simulations and experiments due to the slipping of the roller skate at the contact point with the surface. The platform can be effectively used in a structured environment.
Design, Dynamic Analysis, and Experimental Evaluation of a Hybrid Parallel–Serial Polishing Machine With Decoupled Motions
Authors: Xu Peng , Cheung Chi Fai , Li Bing , Wang Chunjin , Zhao Chenyang 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
In this paper, a novel six degrees-of-freedom (DOF) hybrid kinematic machine (HKM) is designed, analyzed, and evaluated for precision polishing. The design adopts a 3-DOF tripod-based parallel mechanism (PM) to locate the workpiece, a 2-DOF serial mechanism (SM) to orient the polishing tool, and a functional extension limb to provide a redundant DOF when polishing the workpieces with axially symmetrical shapes. Compared with the existing HKMs, the most distinctive feature is that the position and orientation adjustments of the tool with respect to the workpiece are decoupled during the synchronous machining, thus allowing the rotational tool center point (RTCP) function to be conveniently realized. For the developed HKM, the kinematics are studied systematically, including position, velocity, acceleration, and workspace. The dynamic model of the PM is derived by employing the principle of virtual work. For a pre-defined trajectory, the required driving forces are obtained through dynamic simulation. Based on these analyses, a laboratory prototype of the HKM is designed and developed. A preliminary accuracy assessment of the HKM is implemented with a double ball-bar, and a series of polishing experiments are conducted to show the capacity and feasibility of the developed HKM.
The Spherical Rolling-Flying Vehicle: Dynamic Modeling and Control System Design
Authors: Atay Stefan , Bryant Matthew , Buckner Gregory 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
This paper presents the dynamic modeling and control of a bi-modal, multirotor vehicle that is capable of omnidirectional terrestrial rolling and multirotor flight. It focuses on the theoretical development of a terrestrial dynamic model and control systems, with experimental validation. The vehicle under consideration may roll along the ground to conserve power and extend endurance but may also fly to provide high mobility and maneuverability when necessary. The vehicle uses a three-axis gimbal system that decouples the rotor orientation from the vehicle’s terrestrial rolling motion. A dynamic model of the vehicle’s terrestrial motion is derived from first principles. The dynamic model becomes the basis for a nonlinear trajectory tracking control system suited to the architecture of the vehicle. The vehicle is over-actuated while rolling, and the additional degrees of actuation can be used to accomplish auxiliary objectives, such as power optimization and gimbal lock avoidance. Experiments with a hardware vehicle demonstrate the efficacy of the trajectory tracking control system.
Rock Strength Prediction in Real-Time While Drilling Employing Random Forest and Functional Network Techniques
Authors: Gamal Hany , Alsaihati Ahmed , Elkatatny Salaheldin , Haidary Saleh , Abdulraheem Abdulazeez 
Published: April 2021

AbstractThe rock unconfined compressive strength (UCS) is one of the key parameters for geomechanical and reservoir modeling in the petroleum industry. Obtaining the UCS by conventional methods such as experimental work or empirical correlation from logging data are time consuming and highly cost. To overcome these drawbacks, this paper utilized the help of artificial intelligence (AI) to predict (in a real-time) the rock strength from the drilling parameters using two AI tools. Random forest (RF) based on principal component analysis (PCA), and functional network (FN) techniques were employed to build two UCS prediction models based on the drilling data such as weight on bit (WOB), drill string rotating speed (RS), drilling torque (T), stand-pipe pressure (SPP), mud pumping rate (Q), and the rate of penetration (ROP). The models were built using 2333 data points from well (A) with 70:30 training to testing ratio. The models were validated using unseen dataset (1300 data points) of well (B) which is located in the same field and drilled across the same complex lithology. The results of the PCA-based RF model outperformed the FN in terms of correlation coefficient (R) and average absolute percentage error (AAPE). The overall accuracy for PCA-based RF was R of 0.99 and AAPE of 4.3%, and for FN yielded R of 0.97 and AAPE of 8.5%. The validation results showed that R was 0.99 for RF and 0.96 for FN, while the AAPE was 4% and 7.9% for RF and FN models, respectively. The developed PCA-based RF and FN models provide an accurate UCS estimation in real-time from the drilling data, saving time and cost, and enhancing the well stability by generating UCS log from the rig drilling data.
Content Analysis as a Research Method: A Content Analysis of Content Analyses in Sport Communication
Authors: Schäfer Markus , Vögele Catharina 
Published: April 2021

Content analysis is a popular method in communication and media research. However, to what extent and in which contexts it is used in sport communication research has hardly been investigated. In order to provide empirically grounded insight, the authors conducted a quantitative content analysis of scholarly journal articles using content analysis as a research method, focusing on three major international sport communication journals during the 10 years between 2010 and 2019 (N = 267). Results indicate that qualitative and quantitative methods are used equally while combinations with other methods are comparatively rare. The studies cover a broad portfolio of different topics. Social media as communication channels becomes an increasingly central issue of scientific exploration. Although the studies deal with 31 different sports in total, most of them focus on popular team sports such as football, basketball, soccer, baseball, and ice hockey.
Changes in Compliance With Physical Activity Guidelines and Cardiovascular Disease Mortality
Authors: Coelho-Ravagnani Christianne F. , Almeida Jeeser A. , Sui Xuemei , Ravagnani Fabricio C.P. , Pate Russell R. , Blair Steven N. 
Published: April 2021

Background: The effects of compliance with the US Physical Activity (PA) Guidelines and changes in compliance over time on cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality are unknown. Methods: Male participants in the Aerobics Center Longitudinal Study (n = 15,411; 18–100 y) reported leisure-time PA between 1970 and 2002. The frequency of and time spent in PA were converted into metabolic equivalent minutes per week. The participants were classified into remained inactive, became active, became inactive, or remained active groups according to their achievement of the PA guidelines along the follow-up, equivalent here to at least 500 metabolic equivalent minutes of PA per week. Cox regression adjusted for different models was used for the analyses, using age, body mass index, smoking and drinking status, hypertension, diabetes, hypercholesterolemia, and parental history of CVD. Results: Over a mean follow-up of 6.2 years, 439 CVD deaths occurred. Consistently meeting the PA guidelines, compared with not meeting, was associated with a 54% (95% confidence interval, 0.32–0.67) decreased risk of CVD mortality. After controlling for all potential confounders, the risk reduction was 47% (95% confidence interval, 0.36–0.77). Conclusions: Maintaining adherence to the PA guidelines produces substantial reductions in the risk of CVD deaths in men. Furthermore, discontinuing compliance with the guidelines may offset the beneficial effects on longevity.
Clinical outcomes following selective laser trabeculoplasty in Afro-Caribbean patients with glaucoma at high risk for progression
Authors: Realini Tony , Shillingford-Ricketts Hazel , Burt Darra , Balasubramani Goundappa K 
Published: April 2021

AimTo characterise clinical outcomes following selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) in eyes of Afro-Caribbean patients with open-angle glaucoma (OAG) at high risk for progression.MethodsIn a prospective interventional case series, patients meeting high-risk criteria (advanced disease, unilateral glaucoma blindness, inadequate intraocular pressure (IOP) on >2 medications, recent progression on medications, inability to administer, afford or tolerate medications) underwent bilateral 360° SLT and managed based on their subsequent clinical course. Patient-specific indications for SLT—IOP reduction (IOP group) or reduced reliance on medical therapy (MED group)—were recorded before treatment. IOP and medication use were recorded every 3–4 months through up to 24 months of follow-up. Outcomes were analysed separately in the IOP and MED groups.ResultsAmong 33 right eyes (left eye outcomes were similar) in the IOP group, mean (SD) IOP was significantly reduced from 21.7 (7.5) mm Hg to 16.2–17.1 mm Hg over follow-up (p<0.0177); medication use remained unchanged (p>0.05) at all time points. Among 36 right eyes in the MED group, mean medication use was 1.9 (0.9) at baseline and ranged from 1.2 to 1.4 medications per eye through follow-up (p<0.0033), and mean IOP was significantly reduced at months 1–6 (to 13.1 (2.3) mm Hg, p=0.0013), months 13–18 (to 14.3 (2.8), p=0.0136) and unchanged at other time points. No vision-threatening adverse events occurred.ConclusionsAfro-Caribbean patients with OAG at risk for progression can achieve clinically and statistically significant reductions in IOP or medications through up to 24 months following a single 360° SLT treatment.Trial registration numberNCT02375009.
Knowledge, attitude and psychological status of patients living with hepatitis C in five provinces in China: a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Zhao Tian-Shuo , Jin Cunduo , Wang Yishan , Cui Fuqiang 
Published: April 2021

ObjectiveThis study investigated the knowledge, attitudes and psychological status of hepatitis C virus (HCV)-positive patients through a cross-sectional survey to provide scientific strategies for improving their treatment compliance and quality of life.SettingThe research was conducted in nine hospitals in five provincial administrative regions in China, namely Inner Mongolia, Jilin, Beijing, Hebei and Sichuan.ParticipantsA total of 457 patients were recruited for this study and 409 patients were included in the final analysis. The participants were 215 men and 194 women, with an average age of 59 years.Primary and secondary outcome measuresThe primary outcomes were scores on scales assessing knowledge, attitudes and psychological status. The secondary outcomes were transmission of HCV, preference regarding the mode in which information about HCV was provided and factors affecting treatment.ResultsBlood transfusion was the most common route of HCV transmission (42.7%), followed by surgery (15.9%) and blood donation/sale (8.7%). The misunderstanding of HCV and negative attitudes towards other HCV-positive patients were relatively common among HCV-positive patients and were more pronounced among rural and ethnic minority populations. HCV-positive patients were generally categorised as possibly having symptoms of depression. Patients with negative attitudes were more likely to have symptoms of depression (OR=0.6, 95% CI 0.4 to 0.8).ConclusionsHCV-positive patients had a poor understanding of HCV and a negative attitude towards other HCV-positive patients. It is very important to develop effective health education strategies to improve the knowledge, attitudes and mental health of HCV-positive patients and enhance treatment compliance.
Travel-related control measures to contain the COVID-19 pandemic: an evidence map
Authors: Movsisyan Ani , Burns Jacob , Biallas Renke , Coenen Michaela , Geffert Karin , Horstick Olaf , Klerings Irma , Pfadenhauer Lisa Maria , von Philipsborn Peter , Sell Kerstin , Strahwald Brigitte , Stratil Jan M , Voss Stephan , Rehfuess Eva 
Published: April 2021

ObjectivesTo comprehensively map the existing evidence assessing the impact of travel-related control measures for containment of the SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19 pandemic.DesignRapid evidence map.Data sourcesMEDLINE, Embase and Web of Science, and COVID-19 specific databases offered by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the WHO.Eligibility criteriaWe included studies in human populations susceptible to SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19, SARS-CoV-1/severe acute respiratory syndrome, Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus/Middle East respiratory syndrome or influenza. Interventions of interest were travel-related control measures affecting travel across national or subnational borders. Outcomes of interest included infectious disease, screening, other health, economic and social outcomes. We considered all empirical studies that quantitatively evaluate impact available in Armenian, English, French, German, Italian and Russian based on the team’s language capacities.Data extraction and synthesisWe extracted data from included studies in a standardised manner and mapped them to a priori and (one) post hoc defined categories.ResultsWe included 122 studies assessing travel-related control measures. These studies were undertaken across the globe, most in the Western Pacific region (n=71). A large proportion of studies focused on COVID-19 (n=59), but a number of studies also examined SARS, MERS and influenza. We identified studies on border closures (n=3), entry/exit screening (n=31), travel-related quarantine (n=6), travel bans (n=8) and travel restrictions (n=25). Many addressed a bundle of travel-related control measures (n=49). Most studies assessed infectious disease (n=98) and/or screening-related (n=25) outcomes; we found only limited evidence on economic and social outcomes. Studies applied numerous methods, both inferential and descriptive in nature, ranging from simple observational methods to complex modelling techniques.ConclusionsWe identified a heterogeneous and complex evidence base on travel-related control measures. While this map is not sufficient to assess the effectiveness of different measures, it outlines aspects regarding interventions and outcomes, as well as study methodology and reporting that could inform future research and evidence synthesis.