bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and characterization of a 3D in vitro model mimicking acneic skin
Authors: Laclaverie Marine , Rouaud‐Tinguely Pauline , Grimaldi Christine , Jugé Romain , Marchand Laëtitia , Aymard Elodie , Closs Brigitte
Published: December 2020

Acne is an inflammatory skin disease of the pilosebaceous unit, involving four essential factors: hyperseborrhoea combined to a modification of sebum composition, colonization by Cutibacterium (C.) acnes, hyperkeratinization and secreted inflammation. Understanding and mimicking compromised skin is essential to further develop appropriate therapeutic solutions. This study aimed to develop new in vitro 3D models mimicking acneic skin, by combining two main factors involved in the physiopathology, namely, altered sebum composition and C. acnes invasion. Normal human keratinocytes were first used to generate reconstructed human epidermis (RHE) that were then left untreated (control) or treated topically with a combination of both peroxidized squalene and C. acnes cultures. Once validated, this model considered relevant to mimic acneic skin, was further improved by using different phylotypes of C. acnes strains specifically isolated from healthy and acneic patients. While both phylotypes IB and II did not significantly alter RHE, C. acnes IA1 strains induce major acneic skin hallmarks such as hyperkeratinization, secreted inflammation and altered barrier function. Interestingly, these results are obtained independently of the origin of IA1 phylotypes (acneic vs. healthy patient), thus suggesting a role of the ecosystem in controlling C. acnes virulence in healthy skin. In conclusion, by combining two major factors involved in the physiopathology of acne, we (1) succeeded to design in vitro 3D models mimicking this skin disorder and (2) highlighted how C. acnes phylotypes can have an impact on epidermal physiology. These relevant models will be suitable for the substantiation of therapeutic molecules dedicated to acne treatment.
Phagocytic activity of splenic macrophages is enhanced and accompanied by cytosolic alkalinization in TRPM7 kinase‐dead mice
Authors: Beesetty Pavani , Rockwood Jananie , Kaitsuka Taku , Zhelay Tetyana , Hourani Siham , Matsushita Masayuki , Kozak J. Ashot
Published: December 2020

Transient receptor potential melastatin 7 (TRPM7) is a unique protein functioning as a cation channel as well as a serine/threonine kinase and is highly expressed in immune cells such as lymphocytes and macrophages. TRPM7 kinase‐dead (KD) mouse model has been used to investigate the role of this protein in immune cells; these animals display moderate splenomegaly and ectopic hemopoiesis. The basal TRPM7 current magnitudes in peritoneal macrophages isolated from KD mice were higher; however, the maximum currents, achieved after cytoplasmic Mg2+ washout, were not different. In the present study, we investigated the consequences of TRPM7 kinase inactivation in splenic and peritoneal macrophages. We measured the basal phagocytic activity of splenic macrophages using fluorescent latex beads, pHrodo zymosan bioparticles, and opsonized red blood cells. KD macrophages phagocytized more efficiently and had slightly higher baseline calcium levels compared to WT cells. We found no obvious differences in store‐operated Ca2+ entry between WT and KD macrophages. By contrast, the resting cytosolic pH in KD macrophages was significantly more alkaline than in WT. Pharmacological blockade of sodium hydrogen exchanger 1 (NHE1) reversed the cytosolic alkalinization and reduced phagocytosis in KD macrophages. Basal TRPM7 channel activity in KD macrophages was also reduced after NHE1 blockade. Cytosolic Mg2+ sensitivity of TRPM7 channels measured in peritoneal macrophages was similar in WT and KD mice. The higher basal TRPM7 channel activity in KD macrophages is likely due to alkalinization. Our results identify a novel role for TRPM7 kinase as a suppressor of basal phagocytosis and a regulator of cellular pH.
Risk of short‐term biodiversity loss under more persistent precipitation regimes
Authors: Reynaert Simon , De Boeck Hans J. , Verbruggen Erik , Verlinden Maya , Flowers Nina , Nijs Ivan
Published: December 2020

Recent findings indicate that atmospheric warming increases the persistence of weather patterns in the mid‐latitudes, resulting in sequences of longer dry and wet periods compared to historic averages. The alternation of progressively longer dry and wet extremes could increasingly select for species with a broad environmental tolerance. As a consequence, biodiversity may decline. Here we explore the relationship between the persistence of summer precipitation regimes and plant diversity by subjecting experimental grassland mesocosms to a gradient of dry–wet alternation frequencies whilst keeping the total precipitation constant. The gradient varied the duration of consecutive wet and dry periods, from 1 up to 60 days with or without precipitation, over a total of 120 days. An alternation of longer dry and wet spells led to a severe loss of species richness (up to –75% relative to the current rainfall pattern in W‐Europe) and functional diversity (enhanced dominance of grasses relative to nitrogen (N)‐fixers and non‐N‐fixing forbs). Loss of N‐fixers and non‐N‐fixing forbs in severe treatments was linked to lower baseline competitive success and higher physiological sensitivity to changes in soil moisture compared to grasses. The extent of diversity losses also strongly depended on the timing of the dry and wet periods. Regimes in which long droughts (≥20 days) coincided with above‐average temperatures showed significantly more physiological plant stress over the experimental period, greater plant mortality, and impoverished communities by the end of the season. Across all regimes, the duration of the longest period below permanent wilting point was an accurate predictor of mortality across the communities, indicating that increasingly persistent precipitation regimes may reduce opportunities for drought stress alleviation. We conclude that without recruitment, which was precluded in this experiment, summer precipitation regimes with longer dry and wet spells will likely diminish plant diversity, at least in the short term.
Adherence to Maastricht V/Florence consensus report for the management ofHelicobacter pyloriinfection among primary care physicians and medical students in Croatia: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Jukic Ivana , Vukovic Jonatan , Rusic Doris , Bozic Josko , Bukic Josipa , Leskur Dario , Seselja Perisin Ana , Modun Darko
Published: December 2020

Background

Helicobacter pylori(H pylori) eradication is becoming increasingly difficult. The aim of our study was to determine the knowledge of current guidelines and attitude in the diagnosis and treatment ofH pyloriinfection in primary care physicians (PCPs) and medical students in Croatia.

Materials and Methods

A study was conducted among PCPs and medical students to evaluate adherence to Maastricht V consensus guidelines. Questionnaire was distributed by e‐mail to 2338 PCPs offices in Croatia and to the medical students from the University of Split School of Medicine. Responses were collected electronically from June 22 to August 22, 2020.

Results

Two hundred forty‐nine PCPs and 169 medical students were included in the study. Bismuth or non‐bismuth‐based quadruple therapy as first‐line treatment forH pyloriwas the choice of 4.8% of PCPs and 13% of students, while 66.3% PCPs and 79.9% students would choose clarithromycin‐based triple therapy. Bismuth‐based quadruple therapy was the most preferred second line of treatment for 45.4% of PCPs and 34.9% of students. Only 2.8% PCPs and 7.1% of students would correctly recommend first and second line of treatment for H. pylori infection. A larger proportion of students than PCPs would prefer C13‐urea breath test (50.3% vs 6.4%). Only 59.0% PCPs would treat forH pyloriin all patients including the asymptomatic ones. Students more frequently recognized the link betweenH pyloriand gastric cancer compared with PCPs (92.9% vs 73.5%).

Conclusions

Primary care physicians and medical students’ knowledge ofH pyloriguidelines are insufficient in Croatia and ask for additional training.
Ethics of information‐gathering interventions in innovative practice
Authors: Earl Jake , Wendler David
Published: December 2020

Innovative practice involves medical interventions that deviate from standard practice in significant ways. For many patients, innovative practice offers the best chance of successful treatment. Because little is known about most innovative treatments, clinicians who engage in innovative practice might consider including extra procedures, such as scans or blood draws, to gather information about the innovation. Such information‐gathering interventions can yield valuable information for modifying the innovation to benefit future patients and for designing scientific studies of the innovation. However, existing guidelines do not say when or whether it is appropriate to add potentially risky information‐gathering interventions for these purposes. As a result, clinicians may assume that information‐gathering interventions are ethically inappropriate and should not be used in innovative practice. This assumption can lead to seriously negative consequences, such as increasing the likelihood that harmful or ineffective innovations will be adopted and creating new barriers to the development of genuinely beneficial treatments. We argue that health care institutions need to promote the responsible use of information‐gathering interventions as an adjunct to innovative practice, and that these interventions are not clinical research and should not be subject to research oversight.
Catheter ablation of ventricular tachycardia in patients with prior cardiac surgery: An analysis from the International VT Ablation Center Collaborative Group
Authors: Aguilar Martin , Tedrow Usha B. , Tzou Wendy S. , Tung Roderick , Frankel David S. , Santangeli Pasquale , Vaseghi Marmar , Bunch T. Jared , Di Biase Luigi , Tholakanahalli Venkatakrishna N. , Lakkireddy Dhanunjaya , Dickfeld Timm , Weiss J. Peter , Mathuria Nilesh , Vergara Pasquale , Nakahara Shiro , Bradfield Jason S. , Burkhardt J. David , Stevenson William G. , Callans David J. , Della Bella Paolo , Natale Andrea , Shivkumar Kalyanam , Marchlinski Francis E. , Sauer William H.
Published: December 2020

Introduction

Patients with prior cardiac surgery may represent a subgroup of patients with ventricular tachycardia (VT) that may be more difficult to control with catheter ablation.

Methods

We evaluated 1901 patients with ischemic and nonischemic cardiomyopathy who underwent VT ablation at 12 centers. Clinical characteristics and VT radiofrequency ablation procedural outcomes were assessed and compared between those with and without prior cardiac surgery. Kaplan–Meier analysis was used to estimate freedom from recurrent VT and survival.

Results

There were 578 subjects (30.4%) with prior cardiac surgery identified in the cohort. Those with prior cardiac surgery were older (66.4 ± 11.0 years vs. 60.5 ± 13.9 years, p < .01), with lower left ventricular ejection fraction (30.2 ± 11.5% vs. 34.8 ± 13.6%, p < .01) and more ischemic heart disease (82.5% vs. 39.3%, p < .01) but less likely to undergo epicardial mapping or ablation (9.0% vs. 38.1%, p<.01) compared to those without prior surgery. When epicardial mapping was performed, a significantly greater proportion required surgical intervention for access (19/52 [36.5%] vs. 14/504 [2.8%]; p < .01). Procedural complications, including epicardial access‐related complications, were lower (5.7% vs. 7.0%, p < .01) in patients with versus without prior cardiac surgery. VT‐free survival (75.1% vs. 74.1%, p = .805) and survival (86.5% vs. 87.9%, p = .397) were not different between those with and without prior heart surgery, regardless of etiology of cardiomyopathy. VT recurrence was associated with increased mortality in patients with and without prior cardiac surgery.

Conclusion

Despite different clinical characteristics and fewer epicardial procedures, the safety and efficacy of VT ablation in patients with prior cardiac surgery is similar to others in this cohort. The incremental yield of epicardial mapping in predominant ischemic cardiomyopathy population prior heart surgery may be low but appears safe in experienced centers.
Association between periodontitis and fibrotic progression of non‐alcoholic fatty liver among Japanese adults
Authors: Kuroe Kei , Furuta Michiko , Takeuchi Kenji , Takeshita Toru , Suma Shino , Shinagawa Takashi , Shimazaki Yoshihiro , Yamashita Yoshihisa
Published: December 2020

Aim

Non‐alcoholic fatty liver (NAFL) is known to develop into liver fibrosis, which increases the risk of liver cirrhosis and liver cancer. The association between periodontal condition and fibrotic progression of NAFL is unclear. This study aimed to clarify this longitudinal association.

Materials and Methods

Among 4812 participants aged 35–64 years undergoing annual health check‐ups between 2003 and 2004, and follow‐up 5 years later, 392 participants were diagnosed with NAFL. After excluding participants with liver fibrosis at baseline, 341 participants were followed up for 5 years. NAFL disease fibrosis score of ≥−1.455 was used to evaluate the probability of the presence of liver fibrosis.

Results

During the follow‐up period, 10.6% of participants progressed to liver fibrosis. A higher clinical attachment level (CAL) tended to be associated with the incidence of liver fibrosis in the logistic regression analysis (odds ratio [OR] 1.82, 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.94–3.49, p = .074). The stratified analysis by obesity revealed a significant association with higher CAL in obese participants (OR 2.87, 95% CI, 1.23–6.69, p = .015), but not in non‐obese participants.

Conclusion

Higher CAL was associated with an increased probability of liver fibrosis in obese adults with NAFL.
Longevity of direct diastema closure and recontouring restorations with resin composites in maxillary anterior teeth: A 4‐year clinical evaluation
Authors: Korkut Bora , Türkmen Cafer
Published: December 2020

Objectives

To evaluate the clinical performance of resin composite restorations and to investigate causes of failure.

Materials and Methods

The longevity of 216 restorations in 53 patients (mean age, 33.3 years) was retrospectively evaluated according to Fédération Dentaire Internationale (FDI) criteria. Dental history and photographic data were used to evaluate diastema closure (n = 199) and recontouring (n = 19) restorations comprising microhybrid (Essentia Universal, GC Corp.), nanohybrid (Ceram.x One, Dentsply Sirona), and nanofilled (Estelite Asteria, Tokuyama Dental) composites. Data were analyzed with the Kaplan–Meier log‐rank test, Cox regression analysis, Pearson chi‐square test. p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. The overall survival rate was 90.3 % and the mean survival duration was 46.2 months during the for 4 ‐ year study period. The annual failure rate was 0.9 % – 3.4 %. Mean survival durations for diastema closure and recontouring restorations were 46.2 and 45.9 months, respectively (p = 0.328). Mean survival durations for Essentia Universal, Estelite Asteria, and Ceram.x One were 46.1, 46.7, and 45.7 months, respectively (p = 0.677). If we include failed restorations that were repaired and remained functional, the overall survival rate was 100 %.

Conclusion

Longevity was similar among composites and restoration types. The long‐term clinical performance of monochromatic anterior composite restorations was robust. Composite repair may be suitable for diastema closure and recontouring restorations.

Clinical Significance

There is a lack of long‐term clinical evidence regarding the performance of direct anterior composite restorations. Monochromatic direct composite restorations may meet both the esthetic and functional expectations with even simpler restorative techniques. This 4 ‐ year follow‐up study evaluated the clinical performance of monochromatic anterior diastema closure and recontouring restorations with three different composite materials. The longevity of the restorations and the reasons for failure were investigated.
Soluble Pearl Extract provides effective skin lightening by antagonizing endothelin
Authors: Wang Jing , Chen Zhixiong , Lu Yaojia , Zhang Lihua , Mo Jiahuan , Cao Fumin , Xie Min , Shen Xinzhong , Yang Anquan
Published: December 2020

Background

Incidence of skin pigmentation disorders has been on the rise globally. This calls for safer and more effective topical skin lightening and freckle‐removing products. In this study, we hypothesized that Soluble Pearl Extract (SPE) may possess endothelin antagonizing compounds with good skin whitening effects.

Objectives

(a) To determine the effect and mechanisms of SPE on ET‐1‐treated B16 melanoma cells. (b) To explore the cytotoxic effects of SPE on B16 melanoma cells.

Methods

CCK‐8 assay was performed to determine how SPE and ET‐1 affect the proliferation rate of B16 melanoma cells, the NaOH lysis assay was conducted to quantify the content of melanin while the tyrosinase activity was determined by DOPA oxidation test. The mRNA and protein expression levels of TYR and TRP‐1 were determined by qRT‐PCR assay and Western blot assay, respectively.

Results

We found that SPE at 0.1 and 1 μg/mL concentrations has no effect on the proliferation of the cells and 10 nmol/L ET‐1 promoted B16 melanoma cells proliferation. Notably, B16 melanoma cells treated with 10 nmol/L ET‐1 exhibited significantly higher melanin synthesis, tyrosinase activity, TYR, and TRP‐1 mRNA expression levels compared with untreated cells. Of note, the effects of 10 nmol/L ET‐1 treatment were abolished with SPE in a dose‐dependent manner.

Conclusions

SPE inhibits endothelin thereby safely and effectively lightening lightens the skin by antagonizing endothelin. Moreover, SPE is safe and effective.
A combination of 1064 nm Q‐switched fractional ND‐YAG laser with a nonfractional microsecond pulsed technology has a synergistic effect for nonablative facial rejuvenation
Authors: Akerman Lehavit , Lapidoth Moshe , Levi Assi , Sharon Eran , Hilewitz Daniel , Solomon‐Cohen Efrat
Published: December 2020

Background

Non‐ablative fractionated lasers for facial rejuvenation are increasingly preferred over ablative lasers due to their minimal downtime and fewer adverse events. The synergistic effect of the Q‐switched fractional (QSF) 1064‐nm neodymium‐doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) laser, in combination with the non‐fractional microsecond pulsed technology has yet to be fully evaluated.

Aim

Our objective was to determine the safety and efficacy of this combination treatment for skin rejuvenation.

Methods

Patients who underwent treatment using the QSF‐Nd:YAG laser, followed by the non‐fractional microsecond pulsed Nd:YAG were evaluated retrospectively using a novel 3D imaging modality for degree of facial erythema, wrinkles surface area, and wrinkle depth. Pain perception, adverse effects, and patient satisfaction were assessed at the 2‐month post‐treatment follow‐up visit, graded on a scale of 1‐ 5 (1 = not satisfied, 5 = very satisfied).

Results

Ten female patients’ ages 44‐67 (mean 55 years) completed both treatment and follow‐up period, with an overall mild improvement in facial erythema and wrinkle surface area (mean improvement of 18% and 19.5% accordingly), as well as a mild improvement in overall wrinkle depth. Pain and adverse effects were mild and transient. Patients' satisfaction was high.

Conclusion

The combination of the QSF‐Nd:YAG laser and non‐fractional microsecond pulsed technology, using a single Nd:YAG 1064 nm laser platform, was found safe and effective as a non‐ablative modality for facial rejuvenation, as demonstrated by a novel 3D imaging modality.
Nivolumab‐induced plaque morphea in a malign melanoma patient
Authors: Acar Ayda , Oraloglu Gokturk , Yaman Banu , Karaarslan Isil
Published: December 2020

Background

Nivolumab is one of the targeted cancer therapy agent that acts to increase the immune responses by inhibition of antiprogrammed‐death‐receptor 1, which is one of the check points of the immune response. Nivolumab can be used to treat malign melanoma, lung, renal, head and neck, colorectal, hepatocellular cancers, and special cases of Hodgkin lymphoma.

Aims

We aimed to report a rarer cutaneous side effect of nivolumab because of the increasing uses of this agent in various cancer treatments.

Methods

We present a 48‐year‐old female, metastatic melanoma patient who developed plaque morphea lesion without any systemic involvement during nivolumab treatment. Plaque lesion responded well to use of topical corticosteroid and calcipotriol.

Results

Numerous cutaneous side effects associated with nivolumab have been reported in the literature. The most common cutaneous side effects are maculopapular rash, pruritus, and vitiligo. Morphea and disorders from this spectrum reported due to PD‐1 inhibitors in the literature are; morphea, sclerodermoid changes, eosinophilic fasciitis, and lichen sclerosis.

Conclusion

Patients who are treated by PD‐1 inhibitors may be examined carefully in terms of morphea and scleroderma‐like conditions although they are not as common as other cutaneous side effects.
Embedded researchers in Australia: Survey of profile and experience across medical, nursing and midwifery and allied health disciplines
Authors: Mickan Sharon , Coates Dominiek
Published: December 2020

Aims and objectives

This study explores embedded researcher's age, qualifications, research environment and experience in healthcare and academic organisations in Australia and makes comparisons across three core professional disciplines of nursing and midwifery, medicine and allied health.

Background

The embedded researcher model, where a researcher is embedded as a core member of the clinical team, offers promise to support the implementation of research evidence into practice. Currently, there is a lack of clarity about how the model has been adopted across the three largest professional disciplines in Australian health care.

Design

A cross‐sectional survey was designed and reported, using the STROBE Statement.

Methods

A purposive sample of embedded researchers was invited to participate in an exploratory online survey. Embedded researchers worked, or had worked, for a minimum of 30% of their time, in a healthcare organisation doing research or building research capacity. Participant responses were extracted from the survey and imported into SPSS for analysis.

Results

Perspectives of 100 Australian embedded researchers were compared across nursing and midwifery (36%, n = 37), allied health (35%, n = 36) and medicine (26%, n = 27). Professional differences are reported in respondents’ qualifications and experience, employment conditions and their research cultures and environments. Comparatively, most nursing and midwifery embedded researchers were older, more clinically experienced than allied health respondents, who were more research qualified. Medical‐embedded researchers are typically older, more clinically experienced and focussed on producing personally relevant clinical research. Nursing and midwifery embedded researchers reported doing clinical research within their teams, as well as research capacity building, management and clinical practice roles.

Conclusions

Embedded researchers describe different career trajectories across the three largest professional disciplines in Australian health care.

Relevance to clinical practice

Embedded researchers from different professional disciplines enact their work differently. It appears that when they engage in research capacity building via a range of management and networking roles, embedded researchers contribute to their organisation's research culture and receive greater recognition for their achievements.
What affects programme engagement for Māori families? A qualitative study of a family‐based, multidisciplinary healthy lifestyle programme for children and adolescents
Authors: Wild Cervantée EK , Rawiri Ngauru T , Willing Esther J , Hofman Paul L , Anderson Yvonne C
Published: December 2020

Aim

It is important that intervention programmes are accessible and acceptable for groups most affected by excess weight. This study aimed to understand the barriers to and facilitators of engagement for Māori in a community‐based, assessment‐and‐intervention healthy lifestyle programme (Whānau Pakari).

Methods

Sixty‐four in‐depth, home‐based interviews were conducted with past service users. Half of these were with families with Māori children and half with non‐Māori families. The interviews were thematically analysed with peer debriefing for validity.

Results

Māori families experienced barriers due to racism throughout the health system and society, which then affected their ability to engage with the programme. Key barriers included the institutionalised racism evident through substantial structural barriers and socio‐economic challenges, the experience of interpersonal racism and its cumulative impact with weight stigma, and internalised racism and beliefs of biological determinism. Responses to these barriers were distrust of health services, followed by renewed engagement or complete disengagement. Participants identified culturally appropriate care as that which was compassionate, respectful, and focused on relationship building.

Conclusions

While Whānau Pakari is considered appropriate due to the approach of the delivery team, this is insufficient to retain some Māori families who face increased socio‐economic and structural barriers. Past instances of weight stigma and racism have enduring effects when re‐engaging with future health services, and inequities are likely to persist until these issues are addressed within the health system and wider society.
Information literacy instruction in early childhood education: the school museum
Authors: Parisi‐Moreno Verónica , Llonch‐Molina Nayra , Selfa Moisés
Published: December 2020

Instruction with primary sources promotes learner engagement and behavioural objectives. The school museum is a suitable resource for information literacy instruction in early childhood education. In this paper, we question conventional information literacy instruction. Drawing on a review of the scientific literature on information literacy and a review of educational policies, we argue that instructional innovation is needed in reading instruction in early childhood education. Based on the use of primary sources, we propose the interdisciplinary approach of the school museum as an alternative to the school library. This inquiry has implications for teacher effectiveness, student centred learning, reading motivation, and the school‐community relationship. Finally, we give some recommendations concerning school museum implementation and further research on the topic of school museums.
A mutation in the ribosomal protein uS12 reveals novel functions of its universally conserved PNSA loop
Authors: Datta Madhurima , Pillai Maalavika , Modak Mamata Jayant , Liiv Aivar , Khaja Faisal Tarique , Hussain Tanweer , Remme Jaanus , Varshney Umesh
Published: December 2020

The ribosomal protein uS12 is conserved across all domains of life. Recently, a heterozygous spontaneous mutation in human uS12 (corresponding to R49K mutation immediately downstream of the universally conserved 44PNSA47 loop in Escherichia coli uS12) was identified for causing ribosomopathy, highlighting the importance of the PNSA loop. To investigate the effects of a similar mutation in the absence of any wild‐type alleles, we mutated the rpsL gene (encoding uS12) in E. coli. Consistent with its pathology (in humans), we were unable to generate the R49K mutation in E. coli in the absence of a support plasmid. However, we were able to generate the L48K mutation in its immediate vicinity. The L48K mutation resulted in a cold sensitive phenotype and ribosome biogenesis defect in the strain. We show that the L48K mutation impacts the steps of initiation and elongation. Furthermore, the genetic interactions of the L48K mutation with RRF and Pth suggest a novel role of the PNSA loop in ribosome recycling. Our studies reveal new functions of the PNSA loop in uS12, which has so far been studied in the context of translation elongation.
An Open‐Label Pilot Study Investigating Noninvasive High‐Frequency Peripheral Nerve Fiber Stimulation in Chronic Pain
Authors: Hegarty Dominic A. , Bretherton Beatrice
Published: December 2020

Objective

Providing sustained and effective treatment via the peripheral nervous system for the management of chronic pain is challenging. Application of noninvasive high‐frequency stimulation at or near the painful area may benefit those with chronic pain. This open‐label pilot survey examined the impact of this stimulation on pain intensity, activities of daily living, functional capacity, and medication consumption after 2 weeks of treatment.

Methods

Stimulation was administered at home using the summation of two high‐frequency sinusoidal alternating signals at 3858 and 3980 Hz delivered between two electrodes placed directly over one or two locations of pain. Individuals completed a survey after 2 weeks to assess pain, activities of daily living (ADL), pain medication consumption, quality of life (QoL), mood, sleep, functional outcomes, and satisfaction.

Results

463 individuals (372 males; 91 females) retuned the completed survey after 2 weeks of treatment. Pain and ADL scores significantly improved at follow‐up compared with baseline (pain mean difference: 3.05; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.86, 3.24; ADL mean difference: 1.82; 95% CI: 1.60, 2.04). Corresponding improvements in QoL, sleep, mood, functional outcomes, and satisfaction were noted. On average, 8.00 ± 11.11 hours of pain relief were reported with 54% experiencing reductions in pain medication consumption. 98% would use the stimulation in the future.

Conclusion

Two weeks of noninvasive high‐frequency peripheral nerve fiber stimulation appeared to confer positive effects in individuals with chronic pain. Future research employing a control group/arm is needed to establish the long‐term impact of this bioelectric technique in specific pain cohorts.
Taxonomic revisions based on genetic analysis of type specimens of Ulva conglobata, U. laetevirens, U. pertusa and U. spathulata (Ulvales, Chlorophyta)
Authors: Hughey Jeffery R. , Gabrielson Paul W. , Maggs Christine A. , Mineur Frédéric , Miller Kathy Ann
Published: December 2020

Genetic analysis of type material of various Ulva species has shown that many names have been misapplied. DNA sequences of two of the specimens on the lectotype sheet of U. australis from South Australia showed that U. australis is conspecific with specimens called U. pertusa from Japan. However, type material of U. pertusa has not been sequenced, nor have other type specimens with type localities in Japan and Australia, including U. conglobata f. conglobata and U. conglobata f. densa from the former, and U. laetevirens and U. spathulata from the latter. To determine if these names have been correctly applied, targeted DNA sequencing of the rbcL gene was performed on (i) the lectotype specimen of U. laetevirens, (ii) the lectotype and two syntype specimens of U. pertusa, (iii) the lectotype and two syntype specimens of U. congoblata f. conglobata and (iv) two specimens on the holotype sheet of U. conglobata f. densa. In addition, high‐throughput sequencing (HTS) analysis was carried out on an isotype specimen of U. spathulata. Phylogenetic analysis of the resulting rbcL gene sequences supports the taxonomic conclusions that U. laetevirens, U. pertusa and U. spathulata are synonyms of U. australis, and U. conglobata f. conglobata and U. conglobata f. densa represent a single separate and distinct species, U. conglobata. These genetic data contribute to the taxonomy of Ulva and further demonstrate that analyzing DNA from type material is the only currently known reliable method to correctly apply names in this genus.
Suppression of the auditory N1 by visual anticipatory motion is modulated by temporal and identity predictability
Authors: van Laarhoven Thijs , Stekelenburg Jeroen J. , Vroomen Jean
Published: December 2020

The amplitude of the auditory N1 component of the event‐related potential (ERP) is typically suppressed when a sound is accompanied by visual anticipatory information that reliably predicts the timing and identity of the sound. While this visually induced suppression of the auditory N1 is considered an early electrophysiological marker of fulfilled prediction, it is not yet fully understood whether this internal predictive coding mechanism is primarily driven by the temporal characteristics, or by the identity features of the anticipated sound. The current study examined the impact of temporal and identity predictability on suppression of the auditory N1 by visual anticipatory motion with an ecologically valid audiovisual event (a video of a handclap). Predictability of auditory timing and identity was manipulated in three different conditions in which sounds were either played in isolation, or in conjunction with a video that either reliably predicted the timing of the sound, the identity of the sound, or both the timing and identity. The results showed that N1 suppression was largest when the video reliably predicted both the timing and identity of the sound, and reduced when either the timing or identity of the sound was unpredictable. The current results indicate that predictions of timing and identity are both essential elements for predictive coding in audition.
Corporate Hinduism: An argument for attention to sites of authority in a nascent field of research1
Authors: Moodie Deonnie
Published: December 2020

This article takes stock of existing scholarly literature on corporate Hinduism and charts a course for future studies of the same. So far, this literature has focused on business gurus who deploy Hindu texts and ideas in order to justify, organize, and lend meaning to business practices centered around knowledge work in the corporate sector both in India and globally. I argue that further scholarship should pay closer attention to the sites and institutions whereby these gurus gain their authority as well as their platform. These now include business schools, research centers, and corporations. Such a focus reveals that corporate spaces are increasingly becoming loci of authority for the production of new forms of religion.
Phylogenomic species delimitation in the ants of the Temnothorax salvini group (Hymenoptera: Formicidae): an integrative approach
Authors: Prebus Matthew M.
Published: December 2020

The members of the Temnothorax salvini (Forel) species group are rarely collected, arboreally nesting ants of Central American forests. Previously thought to consist of two broadly dispersed species, recent collections have revealed a diversity of specimens that defy the two‐species salvini group concept, but these are difficult to distinguish from each other based solely on morphology. I contrast several model‐based approaches to species delimitation based on target‐enriched genomic data. With molecular data from thousands of ultraconserved elements (UCEs), mitochondrial genome sequences and morphometric data, I use an integrated approach to species delimitation within the salvini group. Morphometric data were analysed using cluster analysis of principal component analysis (PCA) output. I use several popular methods of molecular species delimitation, including bPTP, BPP and STACEY, using a novel approach to filtering UCE data based on posterior predictive checks of nucleotide substitution model adequacy. In addition, I use iBPP to integrate morphometric PCA data and filtered UCE data in a ‘total evidence’ analysis. I use geographical range data for an independent contrast to discriminate among competing species delimitation hypotheses. Furthermore, I investigate the evolutionary timescale and biogeographical history of the group and find that it arose roughly 13 Ma ago in habitats associated with present day mid‐to‐high elevations of the mountain complex spanning southern Mexico to northern Nicaragua. In addition, dispersal of the salvini group into the Southern Sierra Madre in Mexico, lowland habitats and the southern Central American cordilleras in Costa Rica and Panama subsequent to mountain building in southern Central America 5–8 Ma ago appears to follow a taxon‐cycle dynamic, with the lowland‐adapted T. aztecus representing the most recent expansion phase. I find that the salvini group, which previously contained two named species, is composed of nine, all of which are morphologically diagnosable a posteriori.
Seed germination behavior of glyphosate‐resistant and susceptible Italian ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.)
Authors: Schaeffer Afonso Henrique , Silveira Diógenes Cecchin , Schaeffer Otávio Augusto , Lângaro Nadia Canali , Vargas Leandro
Published: December 2020

Ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) is one of the most difficult annual weeds to control in cultivation systems worldwide, especially in temperate regions. The widespread use of herbicides in the past two decades has selected resistant biotypes of ryegrass in crops in Southern Brazil. Ryegrass seeds are dormant when disseminated and germination can be staggered over time (crop‐growing season). Knowledge of the germination behavior of seeds from herbicide‐resistant plants has been little studied, but it would be very useful in integrated weed management. Thus, this study aimed to characterize the dynamics of the soil seed bank of two biotypes of L. multiflorum, one glyphosate‐resistant and the other glyphosate‐susceptible, under a no‐tillage system. The treatments were arranged in a bifactorial scheme, using seeds from biotypes (glyphosate‐resistant and glyphosate‐susceptible) with monthly periods of removal from field (one to 12 months). Seeds of each biotype were placed on the soil surface and covered with soil and straw to simulate no‐till conditions. The percentage of germinated, dormant, and dead seeds was evaluated every 30 days. The ryegrass seed bank of glyphosate‐susceptible and glyphosate‐resistant biotypes was reduced to 11 and 15% of dormant seeds, respectively, at the end of 12 months. However, there was no variation in germination, dormancy, and seed mortality between susceptible and glyphosate‐resistant ryegrass. Seeds of glyphosate‐resistant biotype and susceptible showed germination behavior with similar dynamics in the soil over a period of 12 months.
Systematics and cryptic diversification of Leptodactylus frogs in the Brazilian campo rupestre
Authors: Carvalho Thiago R. , Seger Karin R. , Magalhães Felipe M. , Lourenço Luciana B. , Haddad Célio F. B.
Published: December 2020

The campo rupestre is a unique mountaintop ecosystem in eastern South America, recognised for its endemism and as ecological refugia for plant and animal taxa. Multiple clades of frogs are represented in the Brazilian campo rupestre. One such case is four species of the Leptodactylus fuscus group, three of which are endemic to specific mountain ranges (Leptodactylus camaquara, Leptodactylus oreomantis and Leptodactylus tapiti) and one that is more widespread across different mountain ranges (Leptodactylus cunicularius). In this study, we conducted a phylogenetic analysis of the clade containing the four Leptodactylus species endemic to the campo rupestre ecosystem and explored the biogeographic scenarios of origin and diversification of these montane frogs. The origin and early diversification of this frog clade took place in the Espinhaço Mountain Range (EMR) in the Miocene. This was followed by successive dispersal events to other mountain ranges in a circular pathway and subsequent rapid lineage diversification during the Plio‐Pleistocene transition and early Pleistocene. The diversification of this anuran clade was likely triggered by the Pleistocene climatic oscillations and culminated in the return of one of the montane species to the EMR. Contrasting patterns of phenotypic and genetic divergence indicate cryptic speciation in these frogs unaccompanied by phenotypic disparity. A phenotypically cryptic but highly divergent genetic lineage was found to represent a distinct evolutionary unit in the Northern EMR, described here as a new species (Leptodactylus avivoca sp. n.). The circular dispersal pathway in this frog clade revealed a unique diversification pattern among vertebrates endemic to the Brazilian campo rupestre.
Generalized Model for the Approximation of Coupled Acousto-Mechanical Natural Frequencies in High-Pressure Centrifugal Compressors
Authors: Heinrich Christoph Rocky , Kühhorn Arnold , Steff Klaus , Petry Nico
Published: December 2020

The oil and gas, chemical, and process industries employ centrifugal compressors for a wide range of applications. Due to this, the conditions under which centrifugal compressors have to operate vary significantly from case to case. Gas pipeline compressors, for example, may feature discharge pressures well over 100 bar. In other fields of application, like gas injection, which is used to enhance oil recovery, this quantity can reach considerably higher values. Here, discharge pressures over 600 bar and gas densities over 300 kg/m3 are not uncommon. During the last several decades, comprehensive research was conducted on the impact of high-pressure operating conditions on the vibrational behavior of centrifugal compressor wheels. Nowadays, it is well-known that an increase in gas pressure levels leads to a more pronounced interaction between the side cavities and the impeller, which results in a frequency shift of the acoustic and structural modes.

For the safe operation of compressors, it is necessary to predict these coupled natural frequencies accurately. The state-of-the-art approach to achieve this objective is the finite element method. While this technique provides high-quality results, the simulation of acousto-mechanical systems is still a time-consuming process that incurs high computational costs. Therefore, finite element models are, in this case, not suitable for probabilistic studies, sensitivity analyses, and comprehensive simulations of the full operating range of the compressor. In 2013, Magara proposed a simplified model based on an annular plate between two cylindrical cavities to solve this problem. While this method reduces the required computational effort significantly, its use is limited to platelike impellers.

The authors of this paper propose a more generalized method to overcome the challenges mentioned earlier. It uses the uncoupled structural and acoustic modes of the actual impeller and side cavities in a modal superposition to approximate the natural frequencies of the coupled acousto-mechanical system. In this way, the intended design geometries of the impeller and side cavities are considered while maintaining the advantages of Magara's model regarding the computational effort. In a numerical study, Magara's method and the generalized model are applied to different systems of increasing complexity. The investigation starts with a simple annular plate in a cylindrical cavity and ends with an actual compressor impeller. At every complexity level, the results of both approaches are compared to a finite element analysis. Moreover, measurement data of a simplified rotor in a cylindrical cavity are used to validate the numerical models. Finally, this paper concludes with a discussion of the limitations and benefits of all employed numerical methods.
Study on the Reduction of the Resonant Stress of Turbine Blades Caused by the Stage Interaction Force (Simultaneous Optimization of Blade Resonant Stress and Amount of Unbalance)
Authors: Kaneko Yasutomo , Watanabe Toshio , Furukawa Tatsuya
Published: December 2020

Although the bladed disks of turbomachinery are nominally designed to be cyclically symmetric (tuned system), the vibration characteristics of individual blades on a disk vary slightly owing to manufacturing tolerances, deviations in material properties, wear during operation, etc. These small variations break the cyclic symmetry and split eigenvalue pairs. Actual bladed disks with small variations are called mistuned systems. The resonant stress on a mistuned bladed disk may become large and cause a blade failure due to high cycle fatigue. Especially for a bladed disk with a free-standing blade structure, it is essential to use a sufficiently large safety factor at the design stage, considering the mistuning effect. Traditionally, blade designers have adopted various countermeasures to reduce the resonant stress at the design stage. Besides the countermeasures adopted in blade design, for a variable speed engine, which cannot avoid resonance, it is thought that a practical optimization method for a mistuned system (bladed disk with a free-standing blade structure) is to sort the blades so that the resonant stress is minimized. In this study, a simultaneous method for optimizing the blade resonant stress and the amount of unbalance causing rotor vibration is proposed. In this method, first, the natural frequencies and weights of all blades on a disk are measured. Then, a mistuned system is assembled and the analysis model is generated. Next, the resonant stress and the amount of unbalance in the mistuned system are analyzed. To reduce the computation time, the reduced-order model known as fundamental mistuning model (FMM) is used to calculate the resonant stress in the mistuned system. The analyses of the resonant stress and the amount of unbalance are carried out repeatedly, sorting the blades on the disk, and the optimal solution is explored using Monte Carlo simulations (MCS) or discrete differential evolution (DDE). As an example, a mistuned bladed disk of an aero-engine was analyzed, and the validity of the proposed method was verified.
Nonlinear Synthesis of Compliant Mechanisms: Topology Design
Authors: Joo Jinyong , Kota Sridhar , Kikuchi Noboru
Published: December 2020

The paper presents a methodology for generating topology of complaint mechanisms using nonlinear deformation theory. A multi-criteria objective function as a ratio of geometrical advantage to mean compliance is employed to capture the conflicting functional requirements of a compliant mechanism. The benefits of using nonlinear methods for large deformation problems are illustrated using two design examples by comparing results from a non-linear implementation of the optimization procedure with a linear scheme.
Design of Efficient Compliant Mechanisms From Ground Structure-Based Optimal Topologies
Authors: Frecker Mary , Canfield Shawn
Published: December 2020

The focus of this paper is on conversion of ground structure-based optimal topology solutions to solid models and physical prototypes of monolithic compliant mechanisms. Examples are presented using both truss and frame element ground structure topologies. The compliant mechanisms are designed to be used as mechanical amplifiers for piezoceramic stack actuators, where the performance measures of interest are the stroke amplification, the force transmission, and the mechanical efficiency of the compliant mechanism amplifier. The effect of design details such as member geometry and flexure hinge configurations on the quantitative performance of the solid models and prototypes is considered. The results of experimental validations are also presented.
A Novel Parallel Hybrid Transmission
Authors: Tsai L. W. , Schultz G. , Higuchi N.
Published: December 2020

This paper presents a novel transmission mechanism for use in a parallel hybrid vehicle. A parallel hybrid vehicle typically employs two or more power sources to drive a vehicle. For such a vehicle to function properly, a non-conventional transmission mechanism and a microprocessor-based controller are needed to manage the power flow among the various power sources. The transmission mechanism described in this paper can provide a parallel hybrid with thirteen clutching conditions that can be grouped into five major modes of operation, namely, electric motor mode, power mode, CVT/charging mode, engine mode, and regenerative braking mode. The kinematics, statics, and power flow of each mode of operation are analyzed. A numerical example is used to illustrate the principle of operation. Furthermore, a clutching sequence control logic is developed.