bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
No obvious impact of caesarean delivery on childhood allergic outcomes: findings from Australian cohorts
Authors: Liao Zijun , Lamb Karen E , Burgner David , Ranganathan Sarath , Miller Jessica E , Koplin Jennifer J , Dharmage Shyamali C , Lowe Adrian J , Ponsonby Anne-Louise , Tang Mimi L K , Allen Katrina J , Wake Melissa , Peters Rachel L
Published: January 2020

Background and objective

As caesarean delivery and childhood allergy continue to rise, their inter-relationships may change. We examined whether caesarean delivery predicts allergic disease and impaired lung function in two contemporary harmonised population-based cohorts.

Methods

Parent-reported asthma and eczema data were drawn from two prospective Australian infant cohorts, HealthNuts (n=5276, born 2006–2010) and the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children (LSAC, n=5107, born 2003–2004) at age 6–7 years, and spirometric lung function from LSAC’s Child Health CheckPoint (n=1756) at age 11–12 years. Logistic regression estimated associations between delivery mode and current asthma and eczema at 6–7 years, and linear regression examined lung function at 11–12 years. Models were adjusted for potential confounding factors.

Results

Complete case analysis included 3135 HealthNuts and 3654 LSAC children (32.2% and 30.9% born by caesarean, respectively). An association was evident between caesarean delivery and asthma at age 6–7 years in HealthNuts (adjusted OR (aOR) 1.25, 95% CI 1.00 to 1.57) but not in LSAC (aOR 1.05, 95% CI 0.86 to 1.28), while neither study showed clear associations with eczema (HealthNuts: aOR 1.09, 95% CI 0.88 to 1.35; LSAC: aOR 0.89, 95% CI 0.69 to 1.15). Spirometric lung function parameters at age 11–12 years were similar by delivery mode. Associations were not modified by duration of breast feeding, maternal history of asthma/eczema, childcare attendance, number of older siblings or pet exposure.

Conclusions

In two unselected populations using harmonised protocols, the likely association of caesarean delivery with developing childhood allergy was small.
Pancreatic metastasis of dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans: a rare case
Authors: Chilukuri Durga Sowgandhi , Premkumar Prithviraj , Venkitaraman Balasubramanian , Soundararajan Jagadesh Chandra Bose
Published: January 2020

Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is a rare soft tissue malignancy which is locally aggressive, slow growing. It has a very low metastatic potential and has high risk of local recurrence. We report a 65-year-old man with recurrent DFSP of thigh with pancreatic metastasis. Apart from our patient, only four other cases of pancreatic metastasis of DFSP have been reported. Our patient had a solitary metastasis to pancreas and was treated with distal pancreaticosplenectomy. Outcome of the patient was good. We present this case report to emphasise that resection may be considered for solitary metastasis of DFSP and can be managed successfully.
The snoring 2-year-old boy: a case of primary nasopharyngeal Burkitt’s lymphoma
Authors: Xuereb Gerd , Borg Justine , Apap Kurt , Borg Charles
Published: January 2020

Sporadic Burkitt’s lymphoma affecting the nasopharyngeal region is an extremely rare disease, especially in infants. We describe the case of a 2-year-old boy who presented to the ear, nose and throat department with a history of snoring, blood-stained rhinorrhoea and symptoms consistent with upper respiratory tract infections. Physical examination revealed massive cervical lymphadenopathy. MRI of the head and neck showed a mass lesion in the nasopharynx with bilateral lymph node enlargement. Debulking of the mass was performed and biopsies were sent for histology, which confirmed Burkitt’s lymphoma. The patient was treated with complex chemotherapy and had a good clinical response. The patient remains in remission after 6 years.
‘My hip is damaged’: a qualitative investigation of people seeking care for persistent hip pain
Authors: I R de Oliveira Beatriz , Smith Anne Julia , O'Sullivan Peter P B , Haebich Samantha , Fick Daniel , Khan Riaz , Bunzli Samantha
Published: January 2020

Objectives

Clinicians who use the biopsychosocial approach to manage musculoskeletal pain disorders aim to understand how patients make sense of their symptoms. Treatment includes targeting the negative beliefs and coping responses that can lead to progressive pain and disability. We aimed to explore how people seeking care for persistent hip pain and disability make sense of their symptoms.

Methods

Cross-sectional qualitative study. People were eligible if they were aged ≥18 years, were consulting an orthopaedic surgeon for persistent hip pain and offered a non-surgical intervention. Data were collected through interviews that explored patients’ beliefs about the identity (diagnosis), causes, consequences, timeline and controllability of their symptoms, their strategies to cope with pain and their experiences in seeking healthcare. Transcribed interview data were analysed thematically using a framework approach.

Results

Sixteen people (median age=51, range=33–73 years; median duration hip pain=3 years, range=3 months–20 years) participated. Most participants (10/16) believed their pain was caused by an exercise-related injury. Because of the results of imaging and interactions with healthcare professionals, all participants believed they had damaged hip structures. All described ineffective strategies to manage their pain and multiple failed treatments. For many (7/16), a lack of control over symptoms threatened their physical and mental health.

Conclusions

The way participants with persistent hip pain and disability made sense of their symptoms contributed to them avoiding physical activity, and it impaired their sleep, emotional well-being and physical health.
Limited engagement with transparent and open science standards in the policies of pain journals: a cross-sectional evaluation
Authors: Cashin Aidan G , Bagg Matthew K , Richards Georgia C , Toomey Elaine , McAuley James H , Lee Hopin
Published: January 2020

Scientific progress requires transparency and openness. The ability to critique, replicate and implement scientific findings depends on the transparency of the study design and methods, and the open availability of study materials, data and code. Journals are key stakeholders in supporting transparency and openness. This study aimed to evaluate 10 highest ranked pain journals’ authorship policies with respect to their support for transparent and open research practices. Two independent authors evaluated the journal policies (as at 27 May 2019) using three tools: the self-developed Transparency and Openness Evaluation Tool, the Centre for Open Science (COS) Transparency Factor and the International Committee of Medical Journal Editors (ICMJE) requirements for disclosure of conflicts of interest. We found that the journal policies had an overall low level of engagement with research transparency and openness standards. The median COS Transparency Factor score was 3.5 (IQR 2.8) of 29 possible points, and only 7 of 10 journals’ stated requirements for disclosure of conflicts of interest aligned fully with the ICMJE recommendations. Improved transparency and openness of pain research has the potential to benefit all that are involved in generating and using research findings. Journal policies that endorse and facilitate transparent and open research practices will ultimately improve the evidence base that informs the care provided for people with pain.
Addition of azathioprine to the switch of anti-TNF in patients with IBD in clinical relapse with undetectable anti-TNF trough levels and antidrug antibodies: a prospective randomised trial
Authors: Roblin Xavier , Williet Nicolas , Boschetti Gilles , Phelip Jean-Marc , Del Tedesco Emilie , Berger Anne-Emmanuelle , Vedrines Philippe , Duru Gerard , Peyrin-Biroulet Laurent , Nancey Stéphane , Flourie Bernard , Paul Stephane
Published: January 2020

Objectives

In patients with IBD experiencing an immune-mediated loss of response (LOR) to antitumour necrosis factor (anti-TNF), algorithms recommend a switch of anti-TNF without immunosuppressive drug. The aim of our study was to compare in these patients two strategies: either switch to a second anti-TNF alone or with addition of azathioprine (AZA). After randomisation outcomes (time to clinical and pharmacokinetic failure) were compared between the two groups during a 2-year follow-up period.

Design

Consecutive IBD patients in immune-mediated LOR to a first optimised anti-TNF given in monotherapy were randomised to receive either AZA or nothing with induction by a second anti-TNF in both arms. Clinical failure was defined for Crohn’s disease (CD) as a Harvey-Bradshaw index ≥5 associated with a faecal calprotectin level >250 µg/g stool and for UC as a Mayo score >5 with endoscopic subscore >1 or as the occurrence of adverse events requiring to stop treatment. Unfavourable pharmacokinetics of the second anti-TNF were defined by the appearance of undetectable trough levels of anti-TNF with high antibodies (drug-sensitive assay) or by that of antibodies (drug-tolerant assay).

Results

Ninety patients (48 CDs) were included, and 45 of them received AZA after randomisation. The second anti-TNF was adalimumab or infliximab in 40 and 50 patients, respectively. Rates of clinical failure and occurrence of unfavourable pharmacokinetics were higher in monotherapy compared with combination therapy (p<0.001; median time of clinical failure since randomisation 18 vs >24 months). At 24 months, survival rates without clinical failure and without appearance of unfavourable pharmacokinetics were respectively 22 versus 77% and 22% versus 78% (p<0.001 for both) in monotherapy versus combination therapy. Only the use of combination therapy was associated with favourable outcomes after anti-TNF switch.

Conclusion

In case of immune-mediated LOR to a first anti-TNF, AZA should be associated with the second anti-TNF.

Trial registration number

03580876.
Secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease in China
Authors: Lu Jiapeng , Zhang Lihua , Lu Yuan , Su Meng , Li Xi , Liu Jiamin , Zhang Haibo , Nasir Khurram , Masoudi Frederick A , Krumholz Harlan M , Li Jing , Zheng Xin
Published: January 2020

Objective

We aimed to estimate the current use of secondary prevention drugs and identify its associated individual characteristics among those with established cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) in the communities of China.

Methods

We studied 2 613 035 participants aged 35–75 years from 8577 communities in 31 provinces in the China Patient-Centered Evaluative Assessment of Cardiac Events Million Persons Project, a government-funded public health programme conducted from 2014 to 2018. Participants self-reported their history of ischaemic heart disease (IHD) or ischaemic stroke (IS) and medication use in an interview. Multivariable mixed models with a logit link function and community-specific random intercepts were fitted to assess the associations of individual characteristics with the reported use of secondary prevention therapies.

Results

Among 2 613 035 participants, 2.9% (74 830) reported a history of IHD and/or IS, among whom the reported use rate either antiplatelet drugs or statins was 34.2% (31.5% antiplatelet drugs, 11.0% statins and 8.3% both). Among the 1 530 408 population subgroups, which were defined by all possible permutations of 16 individual characteristics, reported use of secondary prevention drugs varied substantially (8.4%–60.6%). In the multivariable analysis, younger people, women, current smokers, current drinkers, people without hypertension or diabetes and those with established CVD for more than 2 years were less likely to report taking antiplatelet drugs or statins.

Conclusions

The current use of secondary prevention drugs in China is suboptimal and varies substantially across population subgroups. Our study identifies target populations for scalable, tailored interventions to improve secondary prevention of CVD.
Characteristics and outcomes of patients with normal left atrial pressure undergoing transcatheter mitral valve repair
Authors: Sims Jason R , Reeder Guy S , Guerrero Mayra , Alkhouli Mohamad , Nkomo Vuyisile T , Nishimura Rick A , Rihal Charanjit S , Eleid Mackram F
Published: January 2020

Objective

A subset of patients at the time of transcatheter mitral valve repair (TMVR) will have normal left atrial pressure (LAP) (<13 mm Hg) despite having severe mitral regurgitation (MR). The goal of this study was to determine clinical characteristics and outcomes in patients with normal LAP undergoing TMVR.

Methods

A single-centre retrospective cohort of consecutive patients who underwent transcatheter edge-to-edge mitral valve clip and continuous LAP monitoring between 5/1/2014 and 5/1/2018 was analysed. One-year mortality was compared by Kaplan–Meier survival curves. Multivariable analysis was performed to identify predictors of normal LAP and 1 year mortality.

Results

Of the 204 patients undergoing TMVR, 65% were men and the mean age was 81. Of these patients, 31 (15%) had normal LAP (mean LAP 10.5 mm Hg, mean V wave 16.5 mm Hg) and 173 had elevated LAP (mean LAP 19 mm Hg, mean V wave 32.5 mm Hg). The prevalence of severe MR was not different between groups, although the normal LAP group had significantly lower effective regurgitant orifice area and regurgitant volume. Other notable baseline characteristics including prior cardiac surgery, atrial fibrillation, hypertension, diabetes, congestive heart failure, body mass index, mechanism of MR and ejection fraction were similar between groups. However, there was an increased prevalence of chronic lung disease (CLD) (45.2% vs 17.3%, p<0.001) in the normal LAP group. On multivariate analysis, the only significant predictor of normal LAP was the presence of CLD (OR 4.79 (1.83–12.36), p=0.001) and 1-year mortality was significantly higher in the normal LAP group (32.3% vs 12.7%, p=0.006). After adjustment for comorbidities, normal LAP was no longer a predictor of 1-year mortality (RR 1.62 (0.64–4.06), p=0.32); however, CLD (RR 3.44 (1.37–8.67), p=0.01) remained a statistically significant predictor.

Conclusion

Normal LAP at the time of TMVR is associated with a higher incidence of CLD which independently predicts increased 1-year mortality. In patients with CLD and apparently severe MR, measurement of LAP may help identify those with lower likelihood of benefit from TMVR.
Perineural invasion as a predictive factor for survival outcome in gastric cancer patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhao Bochao , Lv Wu , Mei Di , Luo Rui , Bao Shiyang , Huang Baojun , Lin Jie
Published: January 2020

Aims

The prognostic significance of perineural invasion (PNI) for gastric cancer (GC) patients was under debate. This study aimed to review relevant studies and evaluate the impact of PNI on the survival outcome of GC patients.

Methods

Systematic literature search was performed using PubMed and Embase databases. The relevant data were extracted, and the association between PNI and clinicopathological characteristics or survival outcome in GC patients were evaluated using a fixed-effect model or random-effect model.

Results

A total 13 studies involving 7004 GC patients were included in this meta-analysis. The positive rate of PNI was 35.9% (2512/7004) in GC patients, ranging from 6.9% to 75.6%. There were significant relationships between PNI and a series of unfavourable clinicopathological factors including undifferentiated histology type (OR: 1.78, 95% CI 1.37 to 2.33, p<0.001; I2=75.3%), diffuse type (OR: 1.96, 95% CI 1.07 to 3.60, p=0.029; I2=79.5%), lymphatic invasion (OR: 7.00, 95% CI 3.76 to 13.03, p<0.001; I2=83.6%), vascular invasion (OR: 5.79, 95% CI 1.59 to 21.13, p=0.008; I2=95.8%), deeper tumour invasion (OR: 4.79, 95% CI 3.65 to 6.28, p<0.001; I2=65.0%) and lymph node metastasis (OR: 3.60, 95% CI 2.37 to 5.47, p<0.001; I2=89.6%). In addition, PNI was significantly associated with worse survival outcome in GC patients (HR: 1.69, 95% CI 1.38 to 2.06, p<0.001; I2=71.0%).

Conclusion

PNI was frequently detected in surgically resected specimens of GC patients, and it was a predictive factor for survival outcomes in these patients.
Gene of the month: GLI-1
Authors: Chetty Runjan
Published: January 2020

TheGlioma-associated homologue-1(GLI-1) gene was first discovered to be amplified in glioblastoma multiforme. It encodes for a zinc-finger transcription factor in the Kruppel family of proteins and is important in the sonic hedgehog signalling pathway.GLI-1also plays a role in several other pathways and is important for proliferation, migration, invasion, growth and angioinvasion, and cancer stem cell self-renewal in a variety of malignancies. GLI-1 is amplified in several malignancies, including an epithelioid, pericytomatous soft tissue neoplasm that can exhibit malignant behaviour. More recently,GLI-1fusions with other partner genes have been found in three rare tumours: a pericytomatous tumour with a t(7;12) translocation, where it partners withActin beta 1, and gastroblastoma and plexiform fibromyxoma, where the partner gene ismetastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1, respectively.
Impacts of genomics on the health and social costs of intellectual disability
Authors: Doble Brett , Schofield Deborah , Evans Carey-Anne , Groza Tudor , Mattick John S , Field Mike , Roscioli Tony
Published: January 2020

Background

This study provides an integrated assessment of the economic and social impacts of genomic sequencing for the detection of monogenic disorders resulting in intellectual disability (ID).

Methods

Multiple knowledge bases were cross-referenced and analysed to compile a reference list of monogenic disorders associated with ID. Multiple literature searches were used to quantify the health and social costs for the care of people with ID. Health and social expenditures and the current cost of whole-exome sequencing and whole-genome sequencing were quantified in relation to the more common causes of ID and their impact on lifespan.

Results

On average, individuals with ID incur annual costs in terms of health costs, disability support, lost income and other social costs of US$172 000, accumulating to many millions of dollars over a lifetime.

Conclusion

The diagnosis of monogenic disorders through genomic testing provides the opportunity to improve the diagnosis and management, and to reduce the costs of ID through informed reproductive decisions, reductions in unproductive diagnostic tests and increasingly targeted therapies.
Higher burden of rare frameshift indels in genes related to synaptic transmission separate familial hemiplegic migraine from common types of migraine
Authors: Rasmussen Andreas Hoiberg , Olofsson Isa , Chalmer Mona Ameri , Olesen Jes , Hansen Thomas Folkmann
Published: January 2020

Background

Familial hemiplegic migraine (FHM) is a rare form of migraine with aura that often has an autosomal dominant mode of inheritance. Rare mutations in theCACNA1A,ATP1A2andSCN1Agenes can all cause FHM revealing genetic heterogeneity in the disorder. Furthermore, only a small subset of the affected individuals has a causal mutation. We set out to investigate what differentiates patients with FHM with no mutation in any known FHM gene from patients with common types of migraine in both familial and sporadic cases.

Methods

2558 male and female participants from a migraine cohort from the Danish Headache Center were included. 112 had FHM; 743 had familial migraine; and 1703 had sporadic migraine. Using a linear regression model, we analysed for over-representation of rare functional variants in FHM versus familial migraine and sporadic migraine. Post hoc analyses included pathway analysis and testing for tissue specificity.

Results

We found that patients with FHM have significantly more rare frameshift indels compared with patients with familial migraine and sporadic migraine. Pathway analysis revealed that the ‘ligand-gated ion channel activity’ and ‘G protein-coupled receptor downstream signalling’ pathways were significantly associated with mutated genes. We moreover found that the mutated genes showed tissue specificity towards nervous tissue and muscle tissue.

Conclusion

We show that patients with FHM compared with patients with common types of migraine suffer from a higher load of rare frameshift indels in genes associated with synaptic signalling in the central nervous system and possibly in muscle tissue contributing to vascular dysfunction.
Communities of practice: acknowledging vulnerability to improve resilience in healthcare teams
Authors: Delgado Janet , de Groot Janet , McCaffrey Graham , Dimitropoulos Gina , Sitter Kathleen C , Austin Wendy
Published: January 2020

The majority of healthcare professionals regularly witness fragility, suffering, pain and death in their professional lives. Such experiences may increase the risk of burnout and compassion fatigue, especially if they are without self-awareness and a healthy work environment. Acquiring a deeper understanding of vulnerability inherent to their professional work will be of crucial importance to face these risks. From a relational ethics perspective, the role of the team is critical in the development of professional values which can help to cope with the inherent vulnerability of healthcare professionals. The focus of this paper is the role of Communities of Practice as a source of resilience, since they can create a reflective space for recognising and sharing their experiences of vulnerability that arises as part of their work. This shared knowledge can be a source of strength while simultaneously increasing the confidence and resilience of the healthcare team.
Management of patients with acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction in Russian hospitals adheres to international guidelines
Authors: Kontsevaya Anna V , Bates Katie , Schirmer Henrik , Bobrova Natalia , Leon David , McKee Martin
Published: January 2020

Objective

Russia has one of the highest cardiovascular mortality rates. Modernisation of the Russian health system has been accompanied by a substantial increase in uptake of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), which substantially reduces the risk of mortality in patients with acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). This paper aims to describe contemporary Hospital treatment of acute STEMI among patients in a range of hospitals in the Russian Federation.

Methods

This study used data from a prospective observational cohort of 1128 suspected patients with myocardial infarction recruited in both PCI and non-PCI hospitals across 13 regions and multiple levels of the health system in Russia. The primary objective was to examine the use of reperfusion strategies in patients with STEMI.

Results

Among patients reaching PCI centres within 12 hours of symptom onset, the vast majority received angiography and PCI, regardless of age, sex and comorbidity, in line with current European Society of Cardiology guidelines.

Conclusion

Patients reaching Russian hospitals are very likely to receive appropriate treatment, although performance varies. The best hospitals can serve as beacons of good practice as PCI facilities continue to expand across Russia where geography allows.
Cerebellar granuloprival and trans‐synaptic degeneration in a Chihuahua
Authors: López Betran Marta , Mascort Joan , Pumarola Marti , Montoliu Patricia
Published: January 2020

An unusual form of cerebellocortical degeneration called cerebellar granuloprival degeneration was diagnosed in a four‐month‐old Chihuahua. The dog had a two‐week history of progressive signs of cerebellar dysfunction, including a wide‐based stance, intention tremors and bilateral absence of menace response without visual impairment. On MRI of the encephalon, a reduction in cerebellar size was detected. On histopathological examination, depletion of the cerebellar granule cell layer was observed, in addition to neuronal degeneration in the vestibular nuclei, reticular formation, red nucleus and internal laminae of the parietal and temporal cortices. A diagnosis of cerebellar granuloprival degeneration with trans‐synaptic degeneration was made. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first case report of cerebellar granuloprival degeneration in a Chihuahua and the first report of cerebellar granuloprival degeneration with trans‐synaptic degeneration in a dog.
Light-cone sum rules analysis of $$\Xi _{QQ^{\prime }}\rightarrow \Sigma _{Q^{\prime }}$$ weak decays
Authors: Hu Xiao-Hui , Shi Yu-Ji
Published: January 2020

As a continuation of our previous work, we investigate the weak decays of doubly-heavy baryons $$\Xi _{QQ^{\prime }}$$ΞQQ′ into sextet $$\Sigma _{Q^{\prime }}$$ΣQ′ with light-cone sum rules. We calculate the form factors for these decays with the parallel light-cone distribution amplitudes of $$\Sigma _{Q^{\prime }}$$ΣQ′. Numerical results of these form factors are used to predict the decay widths and branching ratios of the corresponding semi-leptonic processes. Parametric uncertainties and theoretical analyses are also given in detail. We find that the decay widths of $$\Xi _{cc}$$Ξcc and $$\Xi _{bc}$$Ξbc decays are several orders of magnitude larger than those of $$\Xi _{bb}$$Ξbb decays.
Spinning particle as Kerr’s black hole: To the problem of unification of gravity with particle physics
Authors: Burinskii Alexander
Published: January 2020

We show that the rotating black hole solutions bring new effects in the particle physics, allowing to unite gravity with quantum theory. Due to extremely large spin/mass ratio (for typical spinning particles), the rotating Kerr black hole solution deforms space topologically on the Compton scale, which increases extremely effective influence gravity on quantum processes, and gravity starts to collaborate with quantum processes, instead of confront them. In particular, Kerr’s gravity defines several important structures and parameters of electron, in particular, its non-perturbative shape, the associated Wilson loop, features of the used supersymmetry and specials of the stringy system.
The Higgs impact on Einstein’s gravity: The Einstein–Kraichnan quantum gravity
Authors: Maia M. D. , Bezerra V. B.
Published: January 2020

An updated review of Kraichnan’s derivation of Einstein’s equations from quantum field theory is presented, including the period after the discovery of the Higgs mechanism and the inclusion of gravitation within the Standard Model of Fundamental Interactions.
Quantum mechanics of stationary states of particles in external singular spherically and axially symmetric gravitational and electromagnetic fields
Authors: Gorbatenko M. V. , Neznamov V. P.
Published: January 2020

The report considers the interaction of scalar particles, photons and fermions with the gravitational and electromagnetic Schwarzschild, Reissner-Nordström, Kerr and Kerr-Newman fields. The behavior of effective potentials in the relativistic Schrödinger-type second-order equations is analyzed. It was found that the quantum theory is incompatible with the hypothesis of the existence of classical black holes with event horizons of zero thickness that were predicted based on solutions of the general relativity (GR) with zero and non-zero cosmological constant [Formula: see text]. The alternative may be presented by compound systems, i.e., collapsars with fermions in stationary bound states.
Thick branes with codimension 1 in modified gravities
Authors: Dzhunushaliev V. , Folomeev V. , Nurtayeva G. , Serikbolova A. , Kim S.-W.
Published: January 2020

Vacuum solutions describing thick branes with codimension 1 within higher-dimensional [Formula: see text] modified gravity are constructed. The dependence of these solutions on the parameters determining the solutions is studied numerically.
Further inequalities for the (generalized) Wills functional
Authors: Alonso-Gutiérrez David , Hernández Cifre María A. , Yepes Nicolás Jesús
Published: January 2020

The Wills functional [Formula: see text] of a convex body [Formula: see text], defined as the sum of its intrinsic volumes [Formula: see text], turns out to have many interesting applications and properties. In this paper, we make profit of the fact that it can be represented as the integral of a log-concave function, which, furthermore, is the Asplund product of other two log-concave functions, and obtain new properties of the Wills functional (indeed, we will work in a more general setting). Among others, we get upper bounds for [Formula: see text] in terms of the volume of [Formula: see text], as well as Brunn–Minkowski and Rogers–Shephard-type inequalities for this functional. We also show that the cube of edge-length 2 maximizes [Formula: see text] among all [Formula: see text]-symmetric convex bodies in John position, and we reprove the well-known McMullen’s inequality [Formula: see text] using a different approach.
Bistable Josephson cell as a single microwave photon sensor
Authors: Pashin D. S. , Bastrakova M. V.
Published: January 2020

The dissipative dynamics of a bistable Josephson cell in a transmission line resonator in a weakly dissipative regime was studied theoretically and numerically. The bistable cell consists of a quantronium qubit and a nonlinear bifurcation amplifier. Under the rotating wave approximation, the problem of the system evolution in a boson thermostat is reduced to the Pauli equation. Using the master equation, we have numerically studied the dissipative dynamics of the system. It was shown that the nonlinear bifurcation amplifier can determine the qubit states and the system can be used as a detector of single microwave photons.
Modeling Coupled Heat and Mass Transfer in Peristaltic Cylindrical Flow of Robertson-Stiff Fluid
Authors: Lahlou N. , Rachid H. , Ouazzani M. T.
Published: January 2020

The Robertson–Stiff fluid (RS) is a yield-pseudo-plastic model which has been used to describe the rheological properties of drilling fluids, cement slurries and bentonite suspensions. Experimentally, several rheological data showed that this model provides more consistently accurate descriptions of the rheology of such fluids than other viscoplastic models. This result motivates us to study theoretically the peristaltic transport for this shear-thinning model and for other viscoplastic models in the presence of heat and mass transfer in a cylindrical tube. For long wavelength and low Reynolds number approximations, an analytical solution is obtained. The results showed that the velocity and the temperature decrease with increasing the yield parameter and the power index while they increase with the increase in the occlusion parameter. We also observed an opposite behavior of the concentration versus these physical parameters. Moreover, all these parameters enhance the mechanical efficiency of pumping. In addition, the comparison shows that the velocity, temperature and the absolute value of concentration are greater for the proposed model than those of Herschel–Bulkley, Bingham and Casson models, respectively.
Aeroelastic Flutter Analysis of Thick Porous Plates in Supersonic Flow
Authors: Bahaadini Reza , Saidi Ali Reza , Majidi-Mozafari Kazem
Published: January 2020

The aeroelastic flutter analysis of thick porous plates surrounded with piezoelectric layers in supersonic flow is studied. In order to aeroelastic analysis of the thick porous-cellular plate, Reddy’s third-order shear deformation plate theory and first-order piston theory are used. Furthermore, the plate is composed of two face piezoelectric layers and three functionally graded porous distributions core. Applying the extended Hamilton’s principle and Maxwell’s equation, the governing equations of motion are obtained. The partial differential governing equations are transformed into a set of ordinary differential equations by applying Galerkin’s approach. The effects of porosity coefficient, porosity distributions, piezoelectric layers, geometric dimensions, electrical and mechanical boundary conditions on the flutter aerodynamic pressure and natural frequencies of porous-cellular plates are investigated.
Buckling and Frequency Responses of a Graphene Nanoplatelet Reinforced Composite Microdisk
Authors: Moayedi H. , Habibi M. , Safarpour H. , Safarpour M. , Foong L. K.
Published: January 2020

This is the first research on the vibration and buckling analysis of a graphene nanoplatelet composite (GPLRC) microdisk in the framework of a numerical based generalized differential quadrature method (GDQM). The stresses and strains are obtained using the higher-order shear deformable theory (HOSDT). Rule of the mixture is employed to obtain varying mass density, thermal expansion, and Poisson’s ratio, while the module of elasticity is computed by modified Halpin–Tsai model. Governing equations and boundary conditions of the GPLRC microdisk are obtained by implementing Extended Hamilton’s principle. The results show that outer to inner ratios of the radius ([Formula: see text], ratios of length scale and nonlocal to thickness [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], and GPL weight fraction [Formula: see text] have a significant influence on the frequency and buckling characteristics of the GPLRC microdisk. Another necessary consequence is that by increasing the value of the [Formula: see text], the distribution of the displacement field extends from radial to tangent direction, especially in the lower mode numbers, this phenomenon appears much more remarkable. A useful suggestion of this research is that, for designing the GPLRC microdisk at the low value of the [Formula: see text], more attention should be paid to the [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], simultaneously.
The Pathogenesis of Nodding Syndrome
Authors: Johnson Tory P. , Sejvar James , Nutman Thomas B. , Nath Avindra
Published: January 2020

Nodding syndrome is a rare, enigmatic form of pediatric epilepsy that has occurred in an epidemic fashion beginning in the early 2000s in geographically distinct regions of Africa. Despite extensive investigation, the etiology of nodding syndrome remains unclear, although much progress has been made in understanding the pathogenesis of the disease, as well as in treatment and prevention. Nodding syndrome is recognized as a defined disease entity, but it is likely one manifestation along a continuum of Onchocerca volvulus–associated neurological complications. This review examines the epidemiology of nodding syndrome and its association with environmental factors. It provides a critical analysis of the data that support or contradict the leading hypotheses of the etiologies underlying the pathogenesis of the syndrome. It also highlights the important progress made in treating and preventing this devastating neurological disease and prioritizes important areas for future research.
Cigarette smoke extract induces ferroptosis in vascular smooth muscle cells
Authors: Sampilvanjil Ariunaa , Karasawa Tadayoshi , Yamada Naoya , Komada Takanori , Higashi Tsunehito , Baatarjav Chintogtokh , Watanabe Sachiko , Kamata Ryo , Ohno Nobuhiko , Takahashi Masafumi
Published: January 2020

Cigarette smoking is a major risk factor for aortic aneurysm and dissection; however, no causative link between smoking and these aortic disorders has been proven. In the present study, we investigated the mechanism by which cigarette smoke affects vascular wall cells and found that cigarette smoke extract (CSE) induced a novel form of regulated cell death termed ferroptosis in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). CSE markedly induced cell death in A7r5 cells and primary rat VSMCs, but not in endothelial cells, which was completely inhibited by specific ferroptosis inhibitors [ferrostatin-1 (Fer-1) and Liproxstatin-1] and an iron chelator (deferoxamine). CSE-induced VSMC death was partially inhibited by a GSH precursor ( N-acetyl cysteine) and an NADPH oxidase inhibitor [diphenyleneiodonium chloride (DPI)], but not by inhibitors of pan-caspases (Z-VAD), caspase-1 (Z-YVAD), or necroptosis (necrostatin-1). CSE also upregulated IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2, MMP-9, and TIMP-1 (tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase)in A7r5 cells, which was inhibited by Fer-1. Furthermore, CSE induced the upregulation of Ptgs2 mRNA, lipid peroxidation, and intracellular GSH depletion, which are key features of ferroptosis. VSMC ferroptosis was induced by acrolein and methyl vinyl ketone, major constituents of CSE. Furthermore, CSE caused medial VSMC loss in ex vivo aortas. Electron microscopy analysis showed mitochondrial damage and fragmentation in medial VSMCs of CSE-treated aortas. All of these manifestations were partially restored by Fer-1. These findings demonstrate that ferroptosis is responsible for CSE-induced VSMC death and suggest that ferroptosis is a potential therapeutic target for preventing aortic aneurysm and dissection.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Cigarette smoke extract (CSE)-induced cell death in rat vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) was completely inhibited by specific ferroptosis inhibitors and an iron chelator. CSE also induced the upregulation of Ptgs2 mRNA, lipid peroxidation, and intracellular GSH depletion, which are key features of ferroptosis. CSE caused medial VSMC loss in ex vivo aortas. These findings demonstrate that ferroptosis is responsible for CSE-induced VSMC death.
A 6-month systems toxicology inhalation study in ApoE−/− mice demonstrates reduced cardiovascular effects of E-vapor aerosols compared with cigarette smoke
Authors: Szostak Justyna , Wong Ee Tsin , Titz Bjoern , Lee Tom , Wong Sin Kei , Low Tiffany , Lee Kyeonghee Monica , Zhang Jingjie , Kumar Ashutosh , Schlage Walter K. , Guedj Emmanuel , Phillips Blaine , Leroy Patrice , Buettner Ansgar , Xiang Yang , Martin Florian , Sewer Alain , Kuczaj Arkadiusz , Ivanov Nikolai V. , Luettich Karsta , Vanscheeuwijck Patrick , Peitsch Manuel C. , Hoeng Julia
Published: January 2020

Analysis of key urinary oxidative stress markers and proinflammatory cytokines showed an absence of oxidative stress and inflammation in the animals exposed to E-vapor aerosols. Conversely, animals exposed to conventional cigarette smoke had high urinary levels of these markers. When compared with conventional cigarette smoke, E-vapor aerosols induced smaller atherosclerotic plaque surface area and volume. Systolic and diastolic cardiac function, as well as endothelial function, were further significantly less affected by electronic cigarette aerosols than conventional cigarette smoke. Molecular analysis demonstrated that E-vapor aerosols induce significantly smaller transcriptomic dysregulation in the heart and aorta compared with conventional cigarette smoke.
TASK-1 and TASK-3 channels modulate pressure overload-induced cardiac remodeling and dysfunction
Authors: Duan Wei , Hicks Jonné , Makara Michael A. , Ilkayeva Olga , Abraham Dennis M.
Published: January 2020

Tandem pore domain acid-sensitive K+ (TASK) channels are present in cardiac tissue; however, their contribution to cardiac pathophysiology is not well understood. Here, we investigate the role of TASK-1 and TASK-3 in the pathogenesis of cardiac dysfunction using both human tissue and mouse models of genetic TASK channel loss of function. Compared with normal human cardiac tissue, TASK-1 gene expression is reduced in association with either cardiac hypertrophy alone or combined cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure. In a pressure overload cardiomyopathy model, TASK-1 global knockout (TASK-1 KO) mice have both reduced cardiac hypertrophy and preserved cardiac function compared with wild-type mice. In contrast to the TASK-1 KO mouse pressure overload response, TASK-3 global knockout (TASK-3 KO) mice develop cardiac hypertrophy and a delayed onset of cardiac dysfunction compared with wild-type mice. The cardioprotective effects observed in TASK-1 KO mice are associated with pressure overload-induced augmentation of AKT phosphorylation and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator-1α (PGC-1α) expression, with consequent augmentation of cardiac energetics and fatty acid oxidation. The protective effects of TASK-1 loss of function are associated with an enhancement of physiologic hypertrophic signaling and preserved metabolic functions. These findings may provide a rationale for TASK-1 channel inhibition in the treatment of cardiac dysfunction.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY The role of tandem pore domain acid-sensitive K+ (TASK) channels in cardiac function is not well understood. This study demonstrates that TASK channel gene expression is associated with the onset of human cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure. TASK-1 and TASK-3 strongly affect the development of pressure overload cardiomyopathies in genetic models of TASK-1 and TASK-3 loss of function. The effects of TASK-1 loss of function were associated with enhanced AKT phosphorylation and expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator-1 (PGC-1) transcription factor. These data suggest that TASK channels influence the development of cardiac hypertrophy and dysfunction in response to injury.
Liquid Chromatography‐Mass Spectrometry‐Based Plasma Metabolomics Study of the Effects of Moxibustion with Seed‐Sized Moxa Cone on Hyperlipidemia
Authors: Shao Qinghua , Cheng Jie , Li Yi , Ni Guangxia
Published: January 2020

Hyperlipidemia (HLP) is a disorder with disturbed lipid metabolism. HLP is a major risk factor in cardiovascular diseases, atherosclerosis, diabetes mellitus, and coronary heart disease. This study focuses on understanding the effects of moxibustion with a seed‐sized moxa cone on HLP and the potential metabolic pathways associated with HLP. An automatic analyzer was used to measure the levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C), and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C) in healthy controls (HCs), HLP patients, and in patients before moxibustion with seed‐sized moxa cone treatment (BMT) and after moxibustion treatment (AMT). Liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry and pathway analyses were performed using differential plasma metabolites derived from the HC, HLP, BMT, and AMT groups. Higher levels of TC, TG, and LDL‐C and lower levels of HDL‐C were detected in HLP patients than in HCs. The levels of TC and TG were significantly decreased in the AMT group compared to those of the BMT group. A total of 87 differential metabolites were identified from the HLP vs HC samples and 51 for the AMT vs BMT samples. Of these, 21 terms were shared. The differential metabolites in both the HLP vs HC and AMT vs BMT groups were significantly enriched in the glycerophospholipid and sphingolipid metabolism pathways. We suggest that moxibustion with seed‐sized moxa cone treatment is effective against hyperlipidemia by altering the levels of TC and TG, which might be regulated by glycerophospholipid and sphingolipid metabolism.
A Novel Distribution and Optimization Procedure of Boundary Conditions to Enhance the Classical Perturbation Method Applied to Solve Some Relevant Heat Problems
Authors: Filobello-Nino U. , Vazquez-Leal H. , Fariborzi Araghi M. A. , Huerta-Chua J. , Sandoval-Hernandez M. A. , Hernandez-Mendez S. , Muñoz-Aguirre E.
Published: January 2020

This work introduces a novel modification of classical perturbation method (PM), denominated Optimized Distribution of Boundary Conditions Perturbation Method (ODBCPM) with the purpose to improve the performance of PM in the solution of ordinary differential equations (ODES). We will see that the main proposal of ODBCPM rests above all in the redistribution and optimization of the boundary conditions of the problem to be solved among the iterations of the proposed method. The solution of a couple of heat relevant problems indicates the potentiality of ODBCPM even for the case of large values of the perturbative parameter.
Is Long-Term Benzodiazepine Use a Risk Factor for Cognitive Decline? Results of a Systematic Review
Authors: Nader Danilo , Gowing Linda
Published: January 2020

Background and Aims. Benzodiazepines have been widely used for long periods of time despite their adverse effects. The acute effects on cognition are well established. However, less is known about the long-term effects. This study critically reviewed existing evidence of the association between long-term exposure to benzodiazepines and risk of cognitive decline in adults. Methods. A systematic review with narrative synthesis was conducted. PubMed and PsycINFO databases were searched using combinations of keywords related to “benzodiazepines” and “cognitive function” from database inception to 12 February 2018 to identify prospective longitudinal studies. The records were evaluated for relevance according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results. Fourteen studies involving 2145 long-term benzodiazepine users were included. Meta-analysis was not undertaken because the combined result would not be meaningful as the included studies differed in several key aspects such as frequency and duration of benzodiazepine use, follow-up periods, cognitive domains, cognitive tests, scoring systems, and statistical analysis. The definition of long-term benzodiazepine use was problematic in all the studies. The exposure was determined by measures which were assumed to represent the whole period in-between the follow-ups. Only 3 of the 14 studies provided support for an association between long-term benzodiazepine use and cognitive decline with a small to medium effect size. However, these three studies used different methods to assess the strength of this association. Global cognitive functioning, verbal memory, intelligence, psychomotor speed, and speed of processing were the cognitive domains affected which also varied across these three studies. Conclusions. Little evidence of an association between long-term benzodiazepine use and a higher risk of cognitive decline among the general adult population was found. However, discrepancies among the results and inconsistencies regarding the cognitive domains affected and methodological limitations prevent definite conclusions. Therefore, future research with prospective studies specially designed would be of great value.
Intelligent Tuning of PID Using Metaheuristic Optimization for Temperature and Relative Humidity Control of Comfortable Rooms
Authors: Janprom K. , Permpoonsinsup W. , Wangnipparnto S.
Published: January 2020

In order to provide the comfortable areas for human, the comfortable rooms are the basic needs area, controlled temperature, and relative humidity (RH). The aim of this study is to control and maintain the temperature and RH of the comfortable room using a proportional integral derivative (PID) controller tuned by metaheuristic optimization. In tuning gains of the PID controller, the modern metaheuristic optimizations, ant colony optimization (ACO), and symbiotic organism search (SOS) are applied and the performance of the proposed control system is compared to that of the traditional methods. In the experimental testing, the controlled room size is tested in the area of width 7.80 m, length 8.00 m, and height 3.80 m. The simulation results show that the performance of the proposed control system-tuned gains of PID controllers by using SOS algorithm has the least steady-state error with 15% rise time and also the overshoot can reach the setpoint. In the case of disturbance occurring in the system, the proposed control system is able to approach the setpoint. Therefore, the PID controller tuned by SOS algorithm can regulate the temperature and humidity of the comfortable room, proficiently.