bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The 3Ds in virus‐like particle based‐vaccines: “Design, Delivery and Dynamics”
Authors: Mohsen Mona O. , Augusto Gilles , Bachmann Martin F.
Published: May 2020

Vaccines need to be rationally designed in order be delivered to the immune system for maximizing induction of dynamic immune responses. Virus‐like particles (VLPs) are ideal platforms for such 3D vaccines, as they allow the display of complex and native antigens in a highly repetitive form on their surface and can easily reach lymphoid organs in intact form for optimal activation of B and T cells. Adjusting size and zeta potential may allow investigators to further fine‐tune delivery to lymphoid organs. An additional way to alter vaccine transfer to lymph nodes and spleen may be the formulation with micron‐sized adjuvants that creates a local depot and results in a slow release of antigen and adjuvant. Ideally, the adjuvant in addition stimulates the innate immune system. The dynamics of the immune response may be further enhanced by inclusion of Toll‐like receptor ligands, which many VLPs naturally package. Hence, considering the 3Ds in vaccine development may allow for enhancement of their attributes to tackle complex diseases, not usually amenable to conventional vaccine strategies.
Display of quintuple glucagon-like peptide 1 (28–36) nonapeptide on Bacillus subtilis spore for oral administration in the treatment of type 2 diabetes
Authors: Kang M. , Feng F. , Ge Q. , Zhu F. , Chen L. , Lv P. , Ma S. , Yao Q. , Chen K.
Published: May 2020

Aims

To develop an oral delivery system of glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) (28–36) for treating type-2 diabetes, B.S-GLP-1(28–36), a recombinant Bacillus subtilis spores transformed with a plasmid vector encoding five consecutive GLP-1 (28–36) nonapeptides with an enterokinase site was constructed.

Methods and Results

GLP-1(28–36) nonapeptide was successfully expressed on the surface of B. subtilis spores and validated by Western blot and immunofluorescence. The therapeutic effect of oral administration of B.S-GLP-1(28–36) spores was evaluated in type 2 diabetic model mice. The efficacy of recombinant spores was examined for a period of 13 weeks after oral administration in diabetic mice. At the end of the sixth week, diabetic mice with oral administration of BS-GLP-1(28–36) spores showed decreased blood glucose levels from 2·4 × 10−2 mol l−1 to 1·7 × 10−2 mol l−1. By the ninth week, the mean fasting blood glucose level in the experimental group was significantly lower than that in the control group 30 min after injection of pyruvate. At the end of the 10th week of oral administration, the blood glucose of the experimental group was significantly lower than that of the control group after intraperitoneal injection of glucose. By the 12th week, fasting blood glucose level and fasting insulin level were measured in all mice, the results showed that the recombinant spores increased the insulin sensitivity of mice.

Conclusions

The results of pathological observation showed that the recombinant spores also had a certain protective effect on the liver and islets of mice, and the content of GLP-1(28–36) in the pancreas of the experimental group was increased.

Significance and Impact of the Study

The results of this study revealed that GLP-1(28–36) nonapeptides can reduce blood glucose and play an important role in the treatment of type 2 diabetes.
An introduction to economic studies, health emergencies, and COVID‐19
Authors: Clarke Lorcan
Published: May 2020

The COVID‐19 pandemic has created widespread harm and disruption. Countries have implemented unprecedented measures to protect the lives and livelihoods of their inhabitants. The scope and composition of these responses are shaped, in part, by research and analysis about the estimated economic impacts of the COVID‐19 Pandemic and proposed responses to it. This analysis outlines basic features and principles involved in economic studies, specifically economic impact studies and economic evaluations, which have formed a significant part of the ever‐increasing evidence base about COVID‐19. This analysis introduces economic studies in this context, highlighting what they can do, their limitations, and key steps involved in conducting them. It highlights examples of economic analysis focused on COVID‐19 and on health emergencies and disasters more broadly. Knowing how economic studies are conducted, and their limitations, will help introduce how their findings can be a useful, usable, and used part of efforts to tackle this global health crisis.
Inhibitory effects of Manihot esculenta extracts on Food‐Borne pathogens and their antioxidant properties: Supercritical fluid extraction, statistical analysis, and molecular docking study
Authors: Ahmad Mohammad Norazmi , Mohd Azli Nur Hidayah , Ismail Hakimah , Mohamed Iqbal Mohammad Anwar , Mat Piah Bijarimi , Normaya Erna
Published: May 2020

An alternative natural additive from Manihot esculenta has been recently discovered. Using a response surface methodology (RSM) approach, a high content of antioxidant activity based on DPPH inhibition from the plant source was found, with the optimum production conditions being 45.9°C, 4,100 psi, and 44 min for temperature, pressure, and time, respectively. The optimized extract was analyzed using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS), Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and UV–Vis spectroscopy. Based on the GC–MS result, the optimized extract contains two major compounds, namely, hexadecanoic acid (40.43%) and 9‐octadecenoic acid (32.75%). The optimized extract also showed good activity in inhibiting Bacillus cereus (9.9 ± 0.17 mm) and Escherichia coli (10.7 ± 0.18 mm). To verify the activity of these two compounds toward B. cereus and E. coli, a theoretical approach with molecular docking was used. These two compounds demonstrated good binding affinity toward 2HUC and 1L8A proteins and could be isolated for use as alternative additives in the food industry.

Practical Application

Because there will always be substantial spoilage, losses and wastage in the food supply chain, preserving foods is essential to reduce food waste and ensure safety for consumers. M. esculenta extract can be used as an alternative food additive or preservative in the food industry that can enhance the shelf life of foods with a safe, inexpensive and less time‐consuming additive.
Taro flour usage in wheat flour bread and gluten‐free bread: Evaluation of rheological, technological and some nutritional properties
Authors: Arıcı Muhammet , Özülkü Görkem , Kahraman Burcu , Yıldırım Ruşen Metin , Toker Ömer Said
Published: May 2020

In the present study, the use of taro flour was investigated for the production wheat flour bread (WFB) and gluten‐free bread (GFB). In both types of breads, the substitution level of taro flour was 3.15%, 6.30%, 12.50%, 18.70%, and 25.00%. The results of the study showed that the storage modulus (G′) value was higher than the loss modulus (G″) value in all the bread doughs. Addition of taro flour to wheat flour and gluten‐free doughs increased the G′ and G″ values and had strengthening effect on dough structure. Specific volumes of bread samples were ranged from 1.97 to 2.54 ml/g for WFB, from 1.61 to 2.20 ml/g for GFB. Higher resistant starch content was observed in GFB samples than WFB. Dietary fiber content increased significantly as taro flour addition was increased in both formulations (p < .05). Acceptable sensorial properties were achieved with the substitution level of 12.50% for WFB and 18.70% for GFB.

Practical Applications

Bread has been considered as a central component of human diet for thousands of years. Improving the nutritional quality of bread types without causing quality losses is a major challenge. Moreover, the variety of gluten‐free bread needs to be increased in order to provide healthy diet for coeliac disease patients. This study aimed to explore alternative bread formulation by using taro flour. The results showed that taro flour is a contributing ingredient in terms of technological and nutritional properties of both wheat and gluten‐free bread. The use of taro flour in bread can provide insights into alternative approaches to extend the bread types to the bakery industry.
Influence of fully covered metal stenting on the risk of post‐endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography pancreatitis: A large multicenter study·
Authors: Xia Ming‐Xing , Zhou Yi‐Feng , Zhang Ming , Wang Wei , Wu Jun , Wang Tian‐Tian , Zhang Xiao‐Feng , Hu Bing
Published: May 2020

Background and Aim

Fully covered self‐expandable metal stents (FCSEMSs) have been increasingly used in the management of benign or malignant biliary disorders. However, the risk of post‐endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography pancreatitis (PEP) with transpapillary placement of the FCSEMS remains controversial. This study therefore aimed to investigate the risk of PEP in patients who received FCSEMS implantation.

Methods

In total, 602 patients who underwent endoscopic transpapillary FCSEMS placement at five Chinese medical centers, between 2011 and 2018, were included in this retrospective study. Patients who were younger than 18 years and with stent placement above the papilla were excluded from the study. PEP and the risk factors were reviewed.

Results

PEP occurred in 56 (9.3%) patients, and eight (1.3%) of them experienced moderate‐to‐severe PEP. The incidence of PEP rose to 14.6% (51/349) when patients had no pancreatic duct (PD) dilation, and even to 18.6% if no prophylactic approaches were adopted. Prophylactic PD stenting showed better efficacy in reducing the incidence of PEP than did rectal use of indomethacin (3.5% vs 10.8%, P = 0.023). Multivariate logistic regression revealed that difficult cannulation (OR 2.837, 95% CI 1.245–6.465, P = 0.013), PD dilation (OR 0.145, 95% CI 0.05–0.422, P < 0.001), and PD stenting (OR 0.247, 95% CI 0.089–0.686, P = 0.007) were significantly associated with PEP risk. Post‐procedure cholecystitis was found in 4.0% of patients.

Conclusion

The risk of post‐procedure pancreatitis is modestly increased in patients receiving transpapillary FCSEMS placement, particularly when there is absence of PD dilation. Thus, prophylactic pancreatic stenting is recommended in such a condition.
Endoscopic revision efficacy after clinically successful bilateral metal stenting for advanced malignant hilar obstruction
Authors: Lee Tae Hoon , Jang Sung Ill , Moon Jong Ho , Lee Yun Nah , Yang Jae Kook , Park Jin‐Seok , Jeong Seok , Lee Don Haeng , Heo Nam Hun , Park Sang‐Heum , Lee Dong Ki
Published: May 2020

Backgrounds and Aim

Multiple insertions of self‐expandable metal stents (SEMS) for advanced malignant hilar obstruction (MHO) are now considered to be an effective palliative method for adequate drainage of liver volume. However, the efficacy of endoscopic reintervention in technically and clinically successful bilateral SEMS is limited. This study investigated the endoscopic revision efficacy in patients who underwent bilateral SEMS in MHO.

Methods

Primary endoscopic revision using plastic or metal stents or an alternative percutaneous approach followed by secondary endoscopic revision was performed in patients who underwent clinically successful deployment of bilateral SEMS. The primary outcome was a technical success. Secondary outcomes were clinical success, adverse events, and patency duration after reintervention.

Results

A total of 55 patients (83.3%) out of 66 enrolled patients underwent reintervention: primary endoscopic reintervention (n = 47) and secondary endoscopic revision following percutaneous drainage (n = 8). Intended technical success rates of primary and secondary endoscopic reintervention were 93.6% (44/47) and 87.5% (7/8), respectively (P = 0.47). Clinical success rates were 72.3% and 50%, respectively (P = 0.23). Stent malfunction rate after reintervention was 48.9% (23/47) and 37.5% (3/8) (P = 0.70) during follow up, and median cumulative stent patency duration was 119 and 55 days, respectively (log–rank P = 0.68). Stent patent rate after reintervention was not different according to the time interval. In univariate and multivariate analysis for stent patency duration‐related factors after reintervention, there were no meaningful factors.

Conclusion

Primary endoscopic reintervention for bilateral SEMS in MHO was feasible technically and clinically. However, there were no statistically meaningful factors for stent patency duration after reintervention.
Handgrip Strength Asymmetry and Weakness Are Associated with Lower Cognitive Function: A Panel Study
Authors: McGrath Ryan , Cawthon Peggy M. , Cesari Matteo , Al Snih Soham , Clark Brian C.
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Examining handgrip strength (HGS) asymmetry and weakness together may extend the predictive capacity of HGS for capturing possible health problems such as cognitive impairment. The purpose of this study was to determine the associations of HGS asymmetry and weakness on lower cognitive functioning in a national sample of aging Americans.

DESIGN

Longitudinal panel.

SETTING

Participant residences.

PARTICIPANTS

The analytic sample included 17,163 Americans aged 65.0 years (standard deviation = 10.1 years) who participated in the 2006 to 2016 waves of the Health and Retirement Study (HRS).

MEASUREMENTS

A handgrip dynamometer was used to measure HGS; weakness was defined as HGS below 26 kg (men) or below 16 kg (women). Persons with HGS above 10% stronger on either hand were considered as having any HGS asymmetry. Those with HGS that was more than 10% stronger on their dominant or nondominant hand were considered as having dominant or nondominant HGS asymmetry, respectively. The Telephone Interview of Cognitive Status determined lower cognitive functioning (≤11 for ages 50‐64 years; ≤10 for ages ≥65 years). Covariate‐adjusted linear mixed‐effects models analyzed the associations of each HGS asymmetry and weakness group on lower cognitive functioning.

RESULTS

Relative to those with symmetric HGS and no weakness, each HGS asymmetry and weakness group had greater odds for lower cognitive functioning: 1.15 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.03‐1.27) for any HGS asymmetry alone, 1.64 (95% CI = 1.21‐2.23) for weakness alone, and 1.95 (95% CI = 1.51‐2.53) for any HGS asymmetry and weakness. Each HGS asymmetry dominance and weakness group also had greater odds for lower cognitive functioning: 1.12 (95% CI = 1.01‐1.25) for asymmetric dominant HGS alone, 1.27 (95% CI = 1.05‐1.53) for asymmetric nondominant HGS alone, 1.64 (95% CI = 1.21‐2.23) for weakness alone, 1.89 (95% CI = 1.39‐2.57) for weakness and asymmetric dominant HGS, and 2.10 (95% CI = 1.37‐3.20) for weakness and asymmetric nondominant HGS.

Conclusion

The presence of both HGS asymmetry and weakness may predict accelerated declines in cognitive functioning.
Treatment of atrophic acne scars with combination therapy of chemical reconstruction of skin scars method and fractionated nonablative laser: A retrospective analysis
Authors: Bahl Aanchal , O'Connor Kelly , Chung Hye Jin
Published: May 2020

Background

Patients with acne scarring often have several types of acne scars, and combination therapies have demonstrated superior success to single treatment modalities. Chemical reconstruction of skin scars (CROSS) has gained popularity as the treatment for ice‐pick scars and fractionated laser therapy for rolling and boxcar scars. However, no study has looked at combination therapy with CROSS and fractionated nonablative laser for the treatment of atrophic acne scars.

Aims

We sought to evaluate the efficacy and safety of combination therapy with CROSS and fractionated nonablative laser for atrophic acne scars.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of patients treated with CROSS followed by fractionated nonablative laser treatment in the same visit for acne scars from 2016 to 2020. Treatment efficacy, defined as the percentage improvement in the appearance of acne scars, was assessed using a 5‐point scale: score 0 (worsening or 0% improvement), 1 (1% ‐ 25%), 2 (26% ‐ 50%), 3 (51%‐75%), and 4 (76%‐100%).

Results

Twenty‐five patients (14 females and 11 males, Fitzpatrick Skin Type II –V) were enrolled. The average improvement score was 2.07 after 3 sessions and 2.78 after 5 sessions. All subjects reported satisfaction, while 24% were very satisfied. There were no permanent adverse effects, and only one patient developed a temporary hypertrophic scar.

Conclusion

We concluded that combination therapy with CROSS and fractionated nonablative laser in the same visit is an effective and safe treatment option for atrophic acne scars in patients with various skin types, including skin of color.
Public health nurse referrals for paediatric weight management: A nested mixed‐methods study
Authors: Nguyen Nam Hoang , Kebbe Maryam , Peng Chenhui , Van Hulst Andraea , Ball Geoff Denis Charles
Published: May 2020

Aims and objectives

To (a) characterise and determine proportions of referred and enrolled children and (b) explore public health nurses’ (PHNs) experiences, perspectives and recommendations regarding a new nurse‐led referral pathway for paediatric weight management.

Background

Children with obesity and their families in Canada access specialised services for obesity management through physician referral. Since this requirement can prevent timely access to health services, we established and tested a referral pathway whereby PHNs directly refer children to specialised care for obesity management.

Design

Nested mixed‐methods study reported using GRAMMS.

Method

Our research study included children (2–17 years of age; body mass index ≥85th percentile) referred by a PHN to the Pediatric Centre for Weight and Health (PCWH; Stollery Children's Hospital, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada) from April 2017–September 2018. We summarised referral and enrolment data using descriptive statistics and conducted one‐on‐one, semi‐structured telephone interviews with PHNs; interviews were audio‐recorded, transcribed verbatim, managed using NVivo 12 and analysed by two independent reviewers using content analysis.

Results

Our sample included 79 referred children (4.4 ± 1.8 years old; 3.4 ± 1.3 BMI z‐score; 52.7% male), of which 47 (59.5%) enrolled in care. PHNs’ (n = 11) experiences, perspectives and recommendations regarding the new referral pathway were grouped into four categories: (a) practicality of the referral pathway (e.g., simple and straightforward), (b) utility of the referral pathway (e.g., economic and timesaving), (c) uptake of the referral pathway (e.g., physician's influence) and (d) recommendations to improve the referral pathway (e.g., having electronic access to the referral form).

Conclusions

A PHN‐specific referral pathway led most children and families to enrol in paediatric weight management and overall was perceived as acceptable and appropriate among PHNs.

Relevance to clinical practice

Our results highlight the valuable role that PHNs can play in directly referring children to specialised services for weight management. This pathway has the potential to reduce wait times and enhance treatment enrolment.
Stress and Physical Activity in Rural Cancer Survivors: The Moderating Role of Social Support
Authors: Mama Scherezade K. , Bhuiyan Nishat , Smyth Joshua M. , Schmitz Kathryn H.
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Social support (SS) has been shown to moderate the relationship between psychological distress and physical activity (PA) in adults, including those with no history of cancer and cancer survivors (CS). The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between stress and leisure‐time PA and test if SS is a moderator of this relationship in rural CS.

Methods

CS were recruited to Partnering to Prevent and Control Cancer (PPCC) and completed questionnaires assessing sociodemographics, leisure‐time PA, perceived stress, and SS. Hierarchical multivariable linear regression was used to assess the moderating role of SS on the association between stress and PA.

Findings

Cancer survivors (N = 219) were in their mid‐60s (M age = 64.3 ± 12.5 years) and overweight/obese (M BMI = 29.5 ± 6.8 kg/m2); over half were women (60.7%) and insufficiently active (59.4%); and 42.1% reported moderate‐to‐high perceived stress. Perceived stress was negatively correlated with PA (r = –.183, P = .044) and SS (r = –.470, P < .001), and SS was positively correlated with PA (r = .205, P = .025). However, SS did not moderate the association between stress and PA.

Conclusions

Rural CS reported higher stress and less PA than previously reported by urban CS, potentially contributing to rural cancer health disparities. Although previous studies have shown success in building SS to reduce stress and promote PA in CS, our results do not support the stress‐buffering hypothesis in rural cancer survivors. Further research is needed to understand factors related to PA in rural CS and determine strategies to reduce psychological distress and promote healthy behaviors in an effort to improve cancer survivorship.
Shock metamorphism in plagioclase and selective amorphization
Authors: Pittarello Lidia , Daly Luke , PickersgilL Annemarie E. , Ferrière Ludovic , Lee Martin R.
Published: May 2020

Plagioclase feldspar is one of the most common rock‐forming minerals on the surfaces of the Earth and other terrestrial planetary bodies, where it has been exposed to the ubiquitous process of hypervelocity impact. However, the response of plagioclase to shock metamorphism remains poorly understood. In particular, constraining the initiation and progression of shock‐induced amorphization in plagioclase (i.e., conversion to diaplectic glass) would improve our knowledge of how shock progressively deforms plagioclase. In turn, this information would enable plagioclase to be used to evaluate the shock stage of meteorites and terrestrial impactites, whenever they lack traditionally used shock indicator minerals, such as olivine and quartz. Here, we report on an electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) study of shocked plagioclase grains in a metagranite shatter cone from the central uplift of the Manicouagan impact structure, Canada. Our study suggests that, in plagioclase, shock amorphization is initially localized either within pre‐existing twins or along lamellae, with similar characteristics to planar deformation features (PDFs) but that resemble twins in their periodicity. These lamellae likely represent specific crystallographic planes that undergo preferential structural failure under shock conditions. The orientation of preexisting twin sets that are preferentially amorphized and that of amorphous lamellae is likely favorable with respect to scattering of the local shock wave and corresponds to the “weakest” orientation for a specific shock pressure value. This observation supports a universal formation mechanism for PDFs in silicate minerals.
Topological surrogates for computationally efficient seismic robustness optimization of water pipe networks
Authors: Pudasaini Binaya , Shahandashti Mohsen
Published: May 2020

The criticality of seismic robustness of the water pipe networks cannot be overstated. Current methodologies for optimizing seismic robustness of city‐scale water pipe networks are scarce. A very few studies that can be found are also prone to long optimization runtimes due to the requirement of repeated hydraulic analysis. Hence, there is a critical need for the identification of computationally efficient surrogate optimization methods for maximizing seismic robustness of water pipe networks. To address this need, this research was conducted to identify, for the first time, computationally efficient topological surrogates for hydraulic simulation‐based optimization. The computational efficiency of surrogate optimization was measured in terms of solution quality (i.e., post‐earthquake serviceability) and computational runtime. Ten different topological connectivity metrics were evaluated out of which five were considered computationally infeasible due to their prohibitive optimization runtime. Five remaining metrics were then used to formulate five surrogate objective functions for seismic robustness of water pipe networks. Each of these functions was optimized using a simulated annealing‐based algorithm. Application of the proposed approach to city‐level benchmark networks helped to identify two metrics out of ten that offered a substantial reduction in optimization runtime with a minimal loss in solution quality. These findings will be highly valuable to water distribution network managers for identifying economical rehabilitation policies for enhancing the seismic robustness at a city‐scale within a reasonable amount of time.
From bench to bedside: Perspectives on the utility of pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics in predicting the efficacy of antifungals in invasive candidiasis
Authors: Pea Federico
Published: May 2020

The aim of this perspective is to give an overlook on the utility of pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics (PK/PD) in predicting the efficacy of antifungals in invasive candidiasis. Overall, from the available literature it appears that bridging data of PK/PD of antifungals from the laboratory to the clinic for the treatment of invasive candidiasis are feasible only partially. Fluconazole is the only antifungal agent having the pharmacodynamic threshold of efficacy identified in experimental animal models convincingly validated in the clinical setting of invasive candidiasis as well. Conversely, for voriconazole and posaconazole data on this topic are very limited. For the echinocandins, robust PK/PD identified in the laboratory represented the rationale for defining differential clinical breakpoints of echinocandins against different species of Candida by the regulatory agencies. However, translation of the findings in the clinical setting provided conflicting results. Data on PK/PD of amphotericin B and flucytosine in models of invasive candidiasis are quite limited, and clinical studies assessing the role of drug exposure on efficacy are currently lacking. The expectation is that prospective studies could test more and more frequently the validity of experimental PK/PD data of antifungals in the clinical setting of invasive candidiasis. The findings could represent a step forward in addressing adequate antifungal stewardship programmes.
An automated sensitive approach for measuring whole gut transit time
Authors: Baker Keeley L. , Izydorczak Michelle , Jackson Ruaidhri , Verhagen Justus V.
Published: May 2020

Background

Commonly used methods to measure whole gut transit time in rodents have yet to combine high sensitivity, objectivity, and automation. We have developed a novel method using oral gavage of non‐toxic fluorescent dye particles and their detection by fluorescence imaging to enable unbiased automated detection of gut transit time simultaneously in 8 cages.

Methods

Naïve mice (n = 20) were gavaged with a non‐caloric viscous suspension of 4.4% fluorescent dye in 3 groups on 2 occasions. Each group was imaged in 8 cages at 5‐minute intervals using blue LEDs for illumination and a Sony full‐frame mirrorless camera with a green band‐pass emission filter. Custom MATLAB code counted the number of fluorescent boli per cage post hoc and provided graphical and spreadsheet output. Boli counts across a wide range of parameters were compared to blind assessments by an experimenter.

Results

Fluorescent boli were detected with high sensitivity, while unstained boli were readily rejected. All cages showed no fluorescent boli for the first ~20 frames (100 minutes), after which many cages gradually show a rise to 1‐6 fluorescent boli. The mean time to first fluorescent bolus in each session was 264 ± 141 and 223 ± 81 minutes post‐gavage, with no within subject consistency. There was high correlation between automated scores and that of experimenter (r = .95 ± .02), being robust to parameter changes.

Conclusions and Inferences

This novel approach provides a reliable, automatic, and low‐cost method of measuring gastrointestinal transit time in mice.
COVID‐19’s impact on private practice and academic dentistry in North America
Authors: Wu Kevin Y. , Wu David T. , Nguyen Thomas T. , Tran Simon D.
Published: May 2020

The COVID‐19 pandemic is a major public health crisis for countries around the world. In response to this global outbreak, the World Health Organization declared a public health emergency of international concern. Dental professionals are especially at high risk of contracting the COVID‐19 virus due to the unique nature of dentistry, more specifically, exposure to aerosols and droplets. When it comes to dental emergencies, it was crucial to maintain urgent dental care services operational to help reduce the burden on our healthcare system and hospitals already under pressure. The COVID‐19 pandemic has significantly impacted how dentistry is practiced in North America in both the private practice and academic settings. This article shares the perspectives of dentists practicing in private practice and clinician‐researchers in academic dental institutions. More specifically, we discuss about measures implemented to minimize risks of disease transmission, challenges in emergency dental care, impact on patients, as well as impact on the professional and personal lives of the dental team during the COVID‐19 crisis.
Preemptive high‐flow nasal cannula treatment in severe bronchiolitis: Results from a high‐volume, resource‐limited pediatric emergency department
Authors: Kamit Fulya , Anil Murat , Anil Ayse Berna , Berksoy Emel , Gokalp Gamze
Published: May 2020

Background

The aims of this study were to evaluate the outcomes of patients with severe bronchiolitis who received preemptive high‐flow nasal cannula (HFNC) treatment according to the authors’ protocol, and to identify potential baseline characteristics that might predict patients who will not benefit from HFNC.

Methods

This was a retrospective chart review of patients with severe bronchiolitis, who received preemptive HFNC treatment according to the authors’ protocol and who were admitted to the pediatric emergency department between January 1, 2015, and December 31, 2016.

Results

Eighty‐four patients in total were enrolled over the 2 year period. Twenty‐three patients (27.3%) failed HFNC. Of these, four responded to non‐invasive mechanical ventilation and 19 required subsequent invasive ventilation. According to logistic regression analysis, existence of a chronic condition, significant tachycardia, existence of dehydration, and a venous pH <7.30 at admission were found to be predictors of HFNC failure. There were no cases of pneumothorax or any other reported adverse effects related to HFNC therapy.

Conclusions

Preemptive HFNC treatment, complying with a preestablished protocol, might be a safe way to support patients with severe bronchiolitis in high‐volume, resource‐limited pediatric emergency departments. The existence of a chronic condition, significant tachycardia, dehydration, and a venous pH <7.30 at admission could be risk factors for preemptive HFNC treatment failure in severe bronchiolitis.
Environmental Federalism in Indian Country: Sovereignty, Primacy, and Environmental Protection
Authors: Haider Mellie , Teodoro Manuel P.
Published: May 2020

Extensive research on “environmental federalism” investigates the effects of shared state‐federal implementation on policy outcomes under the landmark American environmental laws of the 1970s. But these laws originally made no mention of American Indian tribal lands, and subsequent research on environmental federalism has given them little attention. Since 1987, tribes have been eligible to assume implementation primacy under federal environmental law, similar to states. We analyze Clean Water Act (CWA) enforcement under American Indian tribal primacy compared with tribal facilities regulated directly by the U.S. government. To date, 62 tribal governments have been approved for implementation primacy under the CWA. The number and diversity of tribes operating regulated facilities provides uncommon leverage on key questions about environmental federalism. Do tribes that secure primacy enforce environmental rules more rigorously? Or does primacy allow tribes to shirk regulations in a race‐to‐the‐bottom? Analysis of CWA enforcement across 474 tribal wastewater facilities finds that, on average, enforcement increases significantly under tribal primacy. Our findings offer insights about environmental federalism, with important implications for environmental justice.
Hybrid Coordination for Coping with the Medical Surge from the COVID‐19 Pandemic: Paired Assistance Programs in China
Authors: Hu Qian , Zhang Haibo , Kapucu Naim , Chen Wu
Published: May 2020

The COVID‐19 pandemic poses unprecedented challenges to public health care systems and demands intergovernmental coordination to cope with the resulting medical surge. This essay analyzes the operation of Paired Assistance Programs (PAPs) in China, offering a timely comparative case for researchers and practitioners to examine when reflecting on the classic debate over the hierarchical versus network approaches to coordination in emergency management. PAPs highlight the importance of network management and necessity of institutionalizing mechanisms of governance to facilitate coordination within multilevel response systems.
Identification of the novel HLA‐B*46:74 allele by polymerase chain reaction sequence‐based typing
Authors: Zhao Shuoxian , Fu Rui , Wang Fang , He Ji , Zhu Faming
Published: May 2020

HLA‐B*46:74 shows a single nucleotide substitution at position 419T>A when compared to HLA‐B*46:61.
SE‐KGE: A location‐aware Knowledge Graph Embedding model for Geographic Question Answering and Spatial Semantic Lifting
Authors: Mai Gengchen , Janowicz Krzysztof , Cai Ling , Zhu Rui , Regalia Blake , Yan Bo , Shi Meilin , Lao Ni
Published: May 2020

Learning knowledge graph (KG) embeddings is an emerging technique for a variety of downstream tasks such as summarization, link prediction, information retrieval, and question answering. However, most existing KG embedding models neglect space and, therefore, do not perform well when applied to (geo)spatial data and tasks. Most models that do consider space primarily rely on some notions of distance. These models suffer from higher computational complexity during training while still losing information beyond the relative distance between entities. In this work, we propose a location‐aware KG embedding model called SE‐KGE. It directly encodes spatial information such as point coordinates or bounding boxes of geographic entities into the KG embedding space. The resulting model is capable of handling different types of spatial reasoning. We also construct a geographic knowledge graph as well as a set of geographic query–answer pairs called DBGeo to evaluate the performance of SE‐KGE in comparison to multiple baselines. Evaluation results show that SE‐KGE outperforms these baselines on the DBGeo data set for the geographic logic query answering task. This demonstrates the effectiveness of our spatially‐explicit model and the importance of considering the scale of different geographic entities. Finally, we introduce a novel downstream task called spatial semantic lifting which links an arbitrary location in the study area to entities in the KG via some relations. Evaluation on DBGeo shows that our model outperforms the baseline by a substantial margin.
US trade deficit, a reality check: New evidence incorporating asymmetric and non‐linear effects of exchange rate dynamics
Authors: Nasir Muhammad Ali , Leung Mary
Published: May 2020

In the context of the debate on theglobal imbalances, this study investigates the determinants of US trade balance in a non‐linear ARDL framework, which accounts for the asymmetric and non‐linear effects of real effective exchange rate dynamics. Drawing on the data from 1994Q1 to 2018Q1, our key empirical findings suggest significant evidence of short‐ and long‐run asymmetries in the relationship between the real effective exchange rate, US trade balance and its determinants. An asymmetric cumulative dynamic multiplier analysis shows evidence of anasymmetric J‐curve. Furthermore, we find that the price stability, productivity, domestic savings and fiscal deficit/discipline are crucial for the US trade balance in the short to long term. Empirical findings of this study contribute to the contemporary debate on the US trade deficit and have profound policy implications for the competitiveness of the US economy and its external balance.
Comparisons of Thermodynamic Performance of Three Types of Air-Conditioning Systems Under Ideal Processing Procedure
Authors: Peng Donggen , Luo Danting , Fu Yuting
Published: May 2020

As the substitution of the traditional heat pump system, the heat pump driven liquid dehumidification hybrid system and the temperature-humidity independent control system have great application potentials. In this paper, the ideal reversible processes of the three types of systems are built theoretically with their mathematical models, in order to compare their maximum coefficients of performance COPs. The results show that the COP1 of the ideal heat pump driven liquid dehumidification hybrid system is the maximum and the COP2 of the temperature-humidity independent control system is the minimum with the COP3 of the heat pump system falling between both. The COP1 increases by 100% with an increase in the indoor design temperature and relative humidity while the COP1 decreases with the increase in the ambient temperature and relative humidity. The COP2 of the temperature-humidity independent control system can be affected more significantly by supply air temperature difference and angle scale. In an ideal heat pump system, low-grade heat source utilized to reheat the processed air is a superior choice. The study results in this paper have guiding significance for the selection of three types of systems in practical applications.
Validation of Numerical Models of the Offshore Wind Turbine From the Alpha Ventus Wind Farm Against Full-Scale Measurements Within OC5 Phase III
Authors: Popko Wojciech , Robertson Amy , Jonkman Jason , Wendt Fabian , Thomas Philipp , Müller Kolja , Kretschmer Matthias , Hagen Torbjørn Ruud , Galinos Christos , Le Dreff Jean-Baptiste , Gilbert Philippe , Auriac Bertrand , Oh Sho , Qvist Jacob , Sørum Stian Høegh , Suja-Thauvin Loup , Shin Hyunkyoung , Molins Climent , Trubat Pau , Bonnet Paul , Bergua Roger , Wang Kai , Fu Pengcheng , Cai Jifeng , Cai Zhisong , Alexandre Armando , Harries Robert
Published: May 2020

The main objective of the Offshore Code Comparison Collaboration Continuation, with Correlation (OC5) project is validation of aero-hydro-servo-elastic simulation tools for offshore wind turbines (OWTs) through comparison of simulated results to the response data of physical systems. Phase III of the OC5 project validates OWT models against the measurements recorded on a Senvion 5M wind turbine supported by the OWEC Quattropod from the alpha ventus offshore wind farm. The following operating conditions of the wind turbine were chosen for the validation: (1) idling below the cut-in wind speed, (2) rotor-nacelle assembly (RNA) rotation maneuver below the cut-in wind speed, (3) power production below and above the rated wind speed, and (4) shutdown. A number of validation load cases were defined based on these operating conditions. The following measurements were used for validation: (1) strains and accelerations recorded on the support structure and (2) pitch, yaw, and azimuth angles, generator speed, and electrical power recorded from the RNA. Strains were not directly available from the majority of the OWT simulation tools; therefore, strains were calculated based on out-of-plane bending moments, axial forces, and cross-sectional properties of the structural members. The simulation results and measurements were compared in terms of time series, discrete Fourier transforms, power spectral densities, and probability density functions of strains and accelerometers. A good match was achieved between the measurements and models setup by OC5 Phase III participants.
The Development and Applications of a Loading Distribution Based Tip Leakage Loss Model for Unshrouded Gas Turbines
Authors: Yang Hongkai , Zhang Weihao , Zou Zhengping , Zhang Shaowen , Zeng Fei , Xu Wenqi
Published: May 2020

The prediction of tip leakage flow aerothermal loss plays a crucial role in turbine preliminary design, which strongly affects the turbine performance. A new tip leakage loss model for unshrouded turbine is developed in this paper, considering the compressible flow aerothermal process inside the clearance. By coupling with a parameterized loading distribution model proposed in this work, in which the blade loading can be described by four independent parameters, Zweifel coefficient (Zw), diffusion factor (DF), peak velocity location (PVL), and leading edge acceleration (LEA), the loss model can evaluate the tip leakage loss in aerodynamic design process conveniently and accurately. The proposed models are validated by numerical simulations and the results show that, compared with the other acknowledged loss models, the loss model can reduce the deviations by more than 50%. Based on the models, the effects of blade loading design parameters on tip leakage losses are discussed via analysis of variance (ANOVA). The results show that Zw has the most significant influence. As Zw decreases from 1.0 to 0.7, tip leakage losses can be reduced by about 16%. Under lower Zw conditions, the joint effect of PVL and LEA is remarkable. However, under higher Zw conditions, the joint effect of the DF and PVL is more important.
Muscle Contributions to Balance Control During Amputee and Nonamputee Stair Ascent
Authors: Harper Nicole G. , Wilken Jason M. , Neptune Richard R.
Published: May 2020

Dynamic balance is controlled by lower-limb muscles and is more difficult to maintain during stair ascent compared to level walking. As a result, individuals with lower-limb amputations often have difficulty ascending stairs and are more susceptible to falls. The purpose of this study was to identify the biomechanical mechanisms used by individuals with and without amputation to control dynamic balance during stair ascent. Three-dimensional muscle-actuated forward dynamics simulations of amputee and nonamputee stair ascent were developed and contributions of individual muscles, the passive prosthesis, and gravity to the time rate of change of angular momentum were determined. The prosthesis replicated the role of nonamputee plantarflexors in the sagittal plane by contributing to forward angular momentum. The prosthesis largely replicated the role of nonamputee plantarflexors in the transverse plane but resulted in a greater change of angular momentum. In the frontal plane, the prosthesis and nonamputee plantarflexors contributed oppositely during the first half of stance while during the second half of stance, the prosthesis contributed to a much smaller extent. This resulted in altered contributions from the intact leg plantarflexors, vastii and hamstrings, and the intact and residual leg hip abductors. Therefore, prosthetic devices with altered contributions to frontal-plane angular momentum could improve balance control during amputee stair ascent and minimize necessary muscle compensations. In addition, targeted training could improve the force production magnitude and timing of muscles that regulate angular momentum to improve balance control.
Improving Steady Computational Fluid Dynamics to Capture the Effects of Radial Mixing in Axial Compressors
Authors: Cozzi Lorenzo , Rubechini Filippo , Arnone Andrea , Schneider Andrea , Astrua Pio
Published: May 2020

The compressors of power-generation gas turbines (GTs) have a high stage count, blades with low aspect ratios, and large clearances. These features promote strong secondary flows. An important outcome deriving from the convection of intense secondary flows is the enhanced span-wise transport of fluid properties mainly involving the rear stages, generally referred to as “radial mixing.” An incorrect prediction of this key phenomenon may result in inaccurate performance evaluation and could mislead designers. In the rear compressor stages, the stream-wise vorticity associated with tip clearance flows is one of the main drivers of the span-wise transport phenomenon. Limiting it by averaging the flow at row interfaces is the reason why a steady analysis underpredicts radial mixing. To properly forecast the span-wise transport, an unsteady analysis should be adopted. However, this approach has a computational cost not yet suitable for industrial purposes. Currently, only the steady simulation can fit in a lean design chain and any model upgrade improving its radial mixing prediction would be highly beneficial. To attain some progresses in Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) model, its lack of convection of stream-wise vorticity must be addressed. This can be done by acting on another mixing driver that is turbulent diffusion; by enhancing turbulent viscosity, one can promote span-wise diffusion, thus improving the radial mixing prediction. In this paper, this strategy to update the RANS model and its application on an existing compressor is presented, together with the model tuning that has been performed using unsteady results as the target.
Training Load and Carbohydrate Periodization Practices of Elite Male Australian Football Players: Evidence of Fueling for the Work Required
Authors: Routledge Harry E. , Graham Stuart , Di Michele Rocco , Burgess Darren , Erskine Robert M. , Close Graeme L. , Morton James P.
Published: May 2020

The authors aimed to quantify (a) the periodization of physical loading and daily carbohydrate (CHO) intake across an in-season weekly microcycle of Australian Football and (b) the quantity and source of CHO consumed during game play and training. Physical loading (via global positioning system technology) and daily CHO intake (via a combination of 24-hr recall, food diaries, and remote food photographic method) were assessed in 42 professional male players during two weekly microcycles comprising a home and away fixture. The players also reported the source and quantity of CHO consumed during all games (n = 22 games) and on the training session completed 4 days before each game (n = 22 sessions). The total distance was greater (p < .05) on game day (GD; 13 km) versus all training days. The total distance differed between training days, where GD-2 (8 km) was higher than GD-1, GD-3, and GD-4 (3.5, 0, and 7 km, respectively). The daily CHO intake was also different between training days, with reported intakes of 1.8, 1.4, 2.5, and 4.5 g/kg body mass on GD-4, GD-3, GD-2, and GD-1, respectively. The CHO intake was greater (p < .05) during games (59 ± 19 g) compared with training (1 ± 1 g), where in the former, 75% of the CHO consumed was from fluids as opposed to gels. Although the data suggest that Australian Football players practice elements of CHO periodization, the low absolute CHO intakes likely represent considerable underreporting in this population. Even when accounting for potential underreporting, the data also suggest Australian Football players underconsume CHO in relation to the physical demands of training and competition.