bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Active proportional feedback control of turbulent flow over a circular cylinder with averaged velocity sensor
Authors: Yun Jinhyeok , Lee Jungil
Published: September 2022

In the present study, we perform an active proportional (P) feedback control of laminar and turbulent flows over a circular cylinder with an averaged velocity sensor to reduce its drag and lift fluctuations. As a sensor for the feedback control, we adopt an averaged transverse velocity on the centerline of the wake. For the averaging of the transverse sensing velocity, we consider both temporal averaging over a finite period and spatial averaging in the spanwise direction. As a control input, the blowing/suction actuation is provided on the cylinder surface near the flow separation, and its magnitude is linearly proportional to the averaged transverse sensing velocity. With the control, the fluctuations of the transverse sensing velocity are significantly reduced and the vortices right after the cylinder and the Kármán vortex shedding in the wake are weakened, resulting in substantial reductions of the mean drag and lift fluctuations. Furthermore, it is shown that the adoption of the averaged sensing velocity makes the P control successful for a wider range of sensing locations in laminar flow at Re = 100 and is essential for the success of the P control in turbulent flow at Re = 3900. With the optimal control parameters, the reductions of the mean drag and lift fluctuations for turbulent flow at Re = 3900 are about 11% and 61%, respectively. The present P control maintains the magnitude of the blowing/suction actuation less than 1% of the free-stream velocity, and thus, the control input power is very small, leading to an excellent control efficiency.
Hydro- and thermo-dynamic characteristics of a circular cylinder placed in mixed convection flow
Authors: Zhu Hongjun , Zhong Jiawen , Liu Bin
Published: September 2022

The fluid–thermal–structure interaction of a heated circular cylinder is numerically investigated at Pr = 0.71, Re = 60–160, and Ri = 0–2.0 in this article using the stabilized finite element method. The heat convection characteristics along the cylinder's surface in both forced and mixed convection subject to cross buoyancy are discussed and linked to the fluid instabilities. Additionally, the hydrodynamic characteristics are investigated in both time and frequency domains according to the strength of thermal cross buoyancy. Multiple harmonics of hydrodynamic coefficients and heat convection are identified from their frequency domains. Reynolds stresses are utilized to study the energy cascade of fluid kinetic energy and thermal energy via the fine-scale fluid fluctuation in the wake. Furthermore, the dynamic mode decomposition (DMD) technique is employed to extract the dominant spatial-temporal modes from the original field data. It is found that more linear DMD modes are required to accurately reconstruct the vorticity and temperature contours. It implies that strong nonlinear features exist in the wake and are influenced by the thermal buoyancy.
Single-patient expanded access: A primer for pharmacists
Authors: Smith Andrew J F , Redic Kimberly A
Published: September 2022

Purpose

The process of providing treatment with investigational drugs through expanded access is explained. Roles and informational resources for pharmacists are discussed.

Expanded access is a regulatory pathway for the treatment of serious or life-threatening diseases or conditions with investigational agents outside of clinical trials. In the setting of no available therapies or ineligibility for clinical trials, a patient and their treating physician may pursue therapies that are not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The drug manufacturer, FDA, and institutional review boards are required stakeholders in the expanded access process. Other pathways for obtaining investigational agents outside of clinical trials, including federal Right to Try and emergency use authorization, exist but differ in their level of involvement of these key stakeholders. Pharmacists are equipped to be involved in therapy identification, risk vs benefit evaluations, therapy preparation and administration, supportive care, transitions of care, and regulatory compliance. Specific websites, publications, and organizations can aid in navigating expanded access.

Conclusion

Combining elements of traditional clinical care and research, expanded access involves direct treatment with non–FDA-approved agents outside of a clinical trial. Healthcare providers should be aware of the possibility of providing investigational treatments after all approved options have been exhausted.
Anti-CD3 monoclonal antibodies for the prevention and treatment of type 1 diabetes: A literature review
Authors: LeFevre James D , Cyriac Sneha L , Tokmic Adna , Pitlick Jamie M
Published: September 2022

Purpose

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease characterized by the destruction of beta cells, resulting in a loss of insulin production. Patients with T1D carry a substantial disease burden as well as substantial short-term and long-term risks associated with inadequate glycemic control. Currently, treatment mainly consists of insulin, which only treats the symptoms of T1D and not the root cause. Thus, disease-modifying agents such as anti-CD3 monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) that target the autoimmune destruction of beta cells in T1D would provide significant relief and health benefits for patients with T1D. This review summarizes the clinical evidence regarding the safety and efficacy of anti-CD3 mAbs in the prevention and treatment of T1D.

A total of 27 studies reporting or evaluating data from clinical trials involving otelixizumab and teplizumab were included in the review. Anti-CD3 mAbs have shown significant benefits in both patients at high risk for T1D and those with recent-onset T1D. In high-risk populations, anti-CD3 mAbs delayed time to diagnosis, preserved C-peptide levels, and improved metabolic parameters. In recent-onset T1D, anti-CD3 mAbs preserved C-peptide levels and reduced insulin needs for extended periods. Anti-CD3 mAb therapy appears to be safe, with primarily transient and self-limiting adverse effects and no negative long-term effects.

Conclusion

Anti-CD3 mAbs are promising disease-modifying treatments for T1D. Their role in T1D may introduce short-term and long-term benefits with the potential to mitigate the significant disease burden; however, more evidence is required for an accurate assessment.
Suicidality and Alcohol Use as Predictors of Future Suicidal Behavior in College Students
Authors: Coryell William , Horwitz Adam , Albucher Ronald , Zheng Kai , Pistorello Jacqueline , Eisenberg Daniel , Favorite Todd , King Cheryl
Published: September 2022

Aims

There has been a marked increase in suicide fatalities among college-age students in recent years. Moreover, heavy alcohol use, a well-known risk factor for suicide, is present on most campuses. Yet, no prospective studies have examined alcohol use patterns among college students as predictors of suicidal behaviors.

Methods

Online of 40,335 students at four universities took place at the beginning of four academic years, 2015–2018. Of these, 2296 met criteria for an increased risk of suicidal behavior and completed 1- and/or 6-month follow-up evaluation(s). Baseline assessments included the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test to quantify alcohol consumption and resulting problems, and measures of depression, suicidal ideation and suicidal behavior.

Results

Suicide attempts during follow-up were reported by 35 (1.5%) of high-risk students. Regression analyses indicated that baseline severity of alcohol use consequences, but not amount of alcohol consumption, was associated with greater odds of a follow-up suicide attempt after controlling for baseline suicidal ideation, functional impairment and history of suicide attempts.

Conclusions

Among college students at elevated risk for suicide, the severity of alcohol-related consequences was a significant predictor of future suicide attempts. Alcohol consumption was not a significant predictor, suggesting that the amount students drink is less of a concern for suicidal behavior than are the problems (e.g. failing to meet expectations, experiencing blackouts) associated with drinking.
Parametric investigation of thermal behaviour of salt-gradient solar pool for climatic conditions
Authors: Fadhil Smaisim Ghassan , Abed Azher M , Hadrawi Salema K , Shamel Ali
Published: September 2022

The use of solar energy is highly welcomed due to its availability everywhere. Among the types of solar energy technologies, the use of this type of energy to produce heat from different aspects is much more common, so in this research we have tried to examine different aspects of producing thermal energy from solar energy to supply the heat required by the pool. For this purpose, numerical modelling of the solar pool has been done by considering the heat-transfer characteristics and validation has been done to ensure the obtained results. In this paper, according to the physical realities facing solar systems in two scenarios, an analysis with shadow and without shadow has been done. One of the important results is that as the surface of the pool increases, the amount of heat absorption by the pool fluid will increase, but the effect of the shadow will decrease.
A hybrid approach based on complete ensemble empirical mode decomposition with adaptive noise for multi-step-ahead solar radiation forecasting
Authors: Ferkous Khaled , Boulmaiz Tayeb , Abdelmouiz Ziari Fahd , Bekkar Belgacem
Published: September 2022

Accurate measurements of solar radiation are required to ensure that power and energy systems continue to function effectively and securely. On the other hand, estimating it is extremely challenging due to the non-stationary behaviour and randomness of its components. In this research, a novel hybrid forecasting model, namely complete ensemble empirical mode decomposition with adaptive noise–Gaussian process regression (CEEMDAN–GPR), has been developed for daily global solar radiation prediction. The non-stationary global solar radiation series is transformed by CEEMDAN into regular subsets. After that, the GPR model uses these subsets as inputs to perform its prediction. According to the results of this research, the performance of the developed hybrid model is superior to two widely used hybrid models for solar radiation forecasting, namely wavelet–GPR and wavelet packet–GPR, in terms of mean square error, root mean square error, coefficient of determination and relative root mean square error values, which reached 3.23 MJ/m2/day, 1.80 MJ/m2/day, 95.56%, and 8.80%, respectively (for one-step forward forecasting). The proposed hybrid model can be used to ensure the safe and reliable operation of the electricity system.
Prognostic implications of left ventricular torsion measured by feature-tracking cardiac magnetic resonance in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction
Authors: Lai Wei , Chen-Xu Zhao , Jian-Xun Dong , Jie He , Ling-Cong Kong , Dong-Ao-Lei An , Bing-Hua Chen , Song Ding , Zheng Li , Fan Yang , Hu-Wen Wang , Jian-Rong Xu , Heng Ge , Jun Pu
Published: September 2022

Aims

The prognostic implication of left ventricular (LV) torsion on ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is unclear.

Methods and results

We analysed cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) findings of 420 patients from a registry study (NCT03768453). These patients received CMR examination within 1 week after timely primary percutaneous coronary intervention. LV torsion and other CMR indexes were measured. Compared with healthy control subjects, STEMI significantly decreased patients’ LV torsion (1.04 vs. 1.63°/cm, P < 0.001). During follow-up (median, 52 months), the reduction of LV torsion was greater in patients with than without composite major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCEs, 0.79 vs. 1.08°/cm, P < 0.001). The risk of MACCEs would increase to 1.125- or 1.092-fold, and the risk of 1-year LV remodelling would increase to 1.110- or 1.082-fold for every 0.1°/cm reduction in LV torsion after adjustment for clinical or CMR parameters respectively. When divided dichotomously, patients with LV torsion≤ 0.802°/cm had significantly higher risk of MACCEs (40.2 vs. 12.3%, P < 0.001) and more remarkable LV remodelling (46.1 vs. 11.9%, P < 0.001) than patients with better LV torsion. The addition of LV torsion to conventional prognostic factors such as the LV ejection fraction and infarction size led to a better risk classification model of patients for both MACCEs and LV remodelling. Finally, tobacco use, worse post-PCI flow, and greater microvascular obstruction size were presumptive risk factors for reduced LV torsion.

Conclusion

LV torsion measured by CMR is closely associated with the prognosis of STEMI and would be a promising indicator to improve patients’ risk stratification.

Clinical Trial Registration

Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT03768453
Impact of secondary mitral valve chordal cutting on valve geometry in obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy with marked septal hypertrophy
Authors: Zyrianov Aleksei , Spirito Paolo , Abete Raffaele , Margonato Davide , Poggio Daniele , Vaccari Giuseppe , Binaco Irene , Grillo Massimiliano , Dorobantu Lucian , Boni Luca , Ferrazzi Paolo
Published: September 2022

Aims

In patients with obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and mild septal thickness undergoing myectomy, resecting fibrotic anterior mitral leaflet (AML) secondary chordae moves the mitral valve (MV) away from the outflow tract and ejection flow, reducing the need for a deep septal excision. Aim of the present study was to assess whether chordal resection has similarly favourable effects in patients with important hypertrophy, who represent the majority of patients with obstructive HCM.

Methods and results

The MV position in the ventricular cavity, assessed from echocardiography as AML-annulus ratio, was compared before and after chordal resection in 150 consecutive HCM patients with important (≥20 mm) and 62 with mild (≤19 mm) septal thickness undergoing myectomy. Preoperatively, MV position was displaced towards the septum to a similar extent in both groups. Postoperatively, AML-annulus ratio increased of an equal degree in both groups, from 0.43 ± 0.05 to 0.55 ± 0.06 (P < 0.001) a 28% increase, and from 0.43 ± 0.06 to 0.55 ± 0.06 (P < 0.001) a 26% increase, respectively, indicating a similar MV shift away from the outflow tract. When AML-annulus ratio was compared in the study cohort and 124 normal subjects, MV position was within normal range in <4% of patients preoperatively and normalized in >50% postoperatively.

Conclusions

In obstructive HCM, displacement of the MV apparatus into the outflow tract interferes with the ejection flow. Resection of fibrotic secondary chordae moves the MV apparatus away from the outflow tract and enlarges the outflow area independently of septal thickness, facilitating septal myectomy by reducing the need for a deep muscular excision.
Family screening of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in children: a case report
Authors: Voges Inga , Latus Heiner
Published: September 2022

Background

Paediatric hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) caused by sarcomere protein gene mutations is more common than previously thought. We present the case of a 9-year-old boy that was diagnosed with HCM during family screening.

Case summary

We present a case of a 9-year-old boy with a family history of sarcomeric HCM who was diagnosed with hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM) during clinical screening. Echocardiography and cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging revealed asymmetric left ventricular hypertrophy with a maximum wall thickness of 18–19 mm. Cardiovascular magnetic resonance late gadolinium enhancement imaging showed patchy fibrosis within the area of maximum wall thickness. Genetic testing confirmed the presence of the familial mutation in the MYL2 gene. The patient was started on bisoprolol. Furthermore, risk stratification was performed and a recommendation for implantable cardioverter-defibrillator implantation was made.

Discussion

This case demonstrates that significant HCM can already start in childhood and discusses the recommendations for family screening on the basis of recently published studies and the present European Society of Cardiology guideline.
Inappropriate subcutaneous implantable cardioverter defibrillator shock due to incomplete sealing of the seal plug: a case report
Authors: Ajimi Tsuneki , Nozoe Masatsugu , Suematsu Nobuhiro , Kubota Toru
Published: September 2022

Background

A subcutaneous implantable cardioverter defibrillator (S-ICD) has several advantages over the transvenous ICD, including a reduced risk of lead-related mechanical complications and infection. However, inappropriate shock therapy is one of the most common adverse events associated with S-ICDs. We herein report a case of inappropriate shock therapy of S-ICD due to incomplete sealing of the seal plug.

Case summary

A 60-year-old man, who had been on haemodialysis with a history of myocardial infarction, was transferred to the hospital after successfully being resuscitated from ventricular fibrillation (VF). An S-ICD was implanted for secondary prevention. On the third and the seventh post-operative days, S-ICD shock therapy was delivered without any tachyarrhythmias. As device interrogation revealed reproducible noises in both the secondary and alternate vectors by tapping at the generator, the sensing vector was fixed to the primary vector. Two months after discharge, the patient died of VF after receiving appropriate S-ICD shock delivery seven times. The S-ICD was retrieved from the body, and it was revealed that the seal plug had incompletely sealed and returned to its normal closed position after reinsertion of a torque wrench.

Discussion

Seal plug damage is a rare complication but should be considered if noise oversensing is provoked only at the secondary and/or alternate vectors. In the present case, the inappropriate shock therapy might have been prevented if we had checked the seal plug carefully. Therefore, we advocate confirming the seal plug routinely after the removal of the torque wrench.
Effectiveness of platelet-rich concentrates on the rate of orthodontic tooth movement: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Mheissen Samer , Daraqel Baraa , Alzoubi Emad Eddin , Khan Haris
Published: September 2022

Background

Autologous platelet-rich concentrates (PRCs) are recently used as a local biological substance in orthodontics to accelerate the rate of tooth movement.

Objectives

This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effects of PRCs on the rate of orthodontic tooth movement (OTM).

Search methods

Unrestricted search of five electronic databases supplemented by the manual and gray literature search were undertaken in March 2022.

Selection criteria

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the effect of PRCs on the rate of OTM with their side effect were included in this systematic review.

Data collection and analysis

Data items were extracted by two authors using a pre-piloted extraction form. Similar outcomes within a comparable time frame were synthesized in a meta-analysis.

Results

Fourteen studies were deemed eligible for inclusion and seven RCTs were pooled in a meta-analysis. Canine retraction rate was higher in the side of PRCs injection than the control side by 0.28 mm/month (95% CI: 0.16–0.40, I2 = 95.6 per cent, P < 0.001, 345 patients) in the first 4 months after PRCs injection. There was no statistically significant difference between the PRCs side and the control side regarding molar anchorage loss (MAL) (MD = 0.03 mm, 95% CI: −0.18 to 0.24, I2 = 46.3 per cent, P = 0.78, 44 patients), canine rotation (MD = −0.19o, 95% CI: −1.95 to 1.57, I2 = 45.4 per cent, P = 0.96, 48 patients), or en-masse retraction. Likewise, there was no difference between both groups in terms of the duration of de-crowding. The mandibular canine retraction was statistically higher on the PRCs side than on the control side by 0.17 mm/month (P < 0.001, one trial). Regarding root resorption, there was no statistically significant difference between the experimental and control sides within the follow-up time. Mild pain scores were reported by the patients in the first 24 hours after injections.

Conclusions

Low-level evidence indicates that the effect of PRCs on OTM is minor and clinically insignificant. The findings should be interpreted with caution due to the inherent limitations in the included RCTs.

Registration

PROSPERO (CRD42022300026).
May alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks affect the rate of orthodontic tooth movement? A systematic review of animal studies
Authors: Makrygiannakis Miltiadis A , Athanasiou Charikleia A , Kaklamanos Eleftherios G
Published: September 2022

Background

Humans may consume various beverages in everyday life. Previous research has shown that the administration of different substances (medicinal or not) may affect bone turnover and, thus, orthodontic tooth movement. It would be anticipated that the substances contained in beverages could have an impact on tooth movement, as well.

Objective

To investigate in a systematic way and appraise the quality of the available evidence from animal studies regarding the impact of various drinks or the main ingredients included in beverages on the rate of orthodontic tooth movement.

Search methods

Search without restriction in six databases (including grey literature) and hand searching were performed until March 2022.

Selection criteria

We looked for controlled animal studies investigating the effect of drinks, or the main ingredients included in beverages, on the rate of orthodontic tooth movement.

Data collection and analysis

After study retrieval and selection, relevant data was extracted, and the risk of bias was assessed using the SYRCLE’s Risk of Bias Tool. The quality of available evidence was assessed with the Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation.

Results

The initially identified records were finally reduced to nine studies conducted on animals. Carbonated soft drinks were shown to decrease the rate of tooth movement, but alcohol consumption did not have an impact. Exploratory meta-analysis showed that caffeine exhibited an acceleratory effect after 3 weeks of force application. Exploratory meta-regression results indicated that high dosages of caffeine reduced the rate of tooth movement.

Conclusions

The located animal experiments reported that caffeine accelerates, carbonated drinks decelerate, while alcohol does not affect the rate of orthodontic tooth movement. However, due to various limitations it remains unclear whether caffeine, alcohol, or carbonated drinks finally influence tooth movement in animal studies.

Registration

Open Science Framework (https://osf.io/jyhbd/).
Effect of macrophage migration inhibitory factor on pulmonary vein arrhythmogenesis through late sodium current
Authors: Chin Chye-Gen , Chen Yao-Chang , Lin Yung-Kuo , Lu Yen-Yu , Cheng Wan-Li , Chung Cheng-Chih , Chen Shih-Ann , Chen Yi-Jen
Published: September 2022

Aims

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), a pleiotropic inflammatory cytokine, is highly expressed in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). Inflammation increases the risk of AF and is primarily triggered by pulmonary vein (PV) arrhythmogenesis. This study investigated whether MIF can modulate the electrical activity of the PV and examined the underlying mechanisms of MIF.

Methods and results

A conventional microelectrode, a whole-cell patch clamp, western blotting, and immunofluorescent confocal microscopy were used to investigate electrical activity, calcium (Ca2+) regulation, protein expression, ionic currents, and cytosolic reactive oxygen species (ROS) in rabbit PV tissue and isolated single cardiomyocytes with and without MIF incubation (100 ng/mL, treated for 6 h). The MIF (100 ng/mL)-treated PV tissue (n = 8) demonstrated a faster beating rate (1.8 ± 0.2 vs. 2.6 ± 0.1 Hz, P < 0.05), higher incidence of triggered activity (12.5 vs. 100%, P < 0.05), and premature atrial beat (0 vs. 100%, P < 0.05) than the control PV tissue (n = 8). Compared with the control PV cardiomyocytes, MIF-treated single PV cardiomyocytes had larger Ca2+ transients (0.6 ± 0.1 vs. 1.0 ± 0.1, ΔF/F0, P < 0.05), sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ content (0.9 ± 0.20 vs. 1.7 ± 0.3 mM of cytosol, P < 0.05), and cytosolic ROS (146.8 ± 5.3 vs. 163.7 ± 3.8, ΔF/F0, P < 0.05). Moreover, MIF-treated PV cardiomyocytes exhibited larger late sodium currents (INa-Late), L-type Ca2+ currents, and Na+/Ca2+ exchanger currents than the control PV cardiomyocytes. KN93 [a selective calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) blocker, 1 μM], ranolazine (an INa-Late inhibitor, 10 μM), and N-(mercaptopropionyl) glycine (ROS inhibitor, 10 mM) reduced the beating rates and the incidence of triggered activity and premature captures in the MIF-treated PV tissue.

Conclusion

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor increased PV arrhythmogenesis through Na+ and Ca2+ dysregulation through the ROS activation of CaMKII signalling, which may contribute to the genesis of AF during inflammation. Anti-CaMKII treatment may reverse PV arrhythmogenesis. Our results clearly reveal a key link between MIF and AF and offer a viable therapeutic target for AF treatment.
Circular or square plots in ALS-based forest inventories—does it matter?
Authors: Packalen Petteri , Strunk Jacob , Maltamo Matti , Myllymäki Mari
Published: September 2022

In airborne laser scanning (ALS)-based forest inventories, there is commonly a discrepancy between the plot shape used for model fitting (typically circular) and the shape of population elements (typically square) where predictions are needed. Circular plots are easy to establish, locate and have the smallest number of edge trees on average. Therefore, a circle is the most common plot shape in both traditional and remote sensing-based forest inventories. In contrast, the shape of population elements used for remote sensing-based predictions is nearly always a square because it enables division of the target population into a grid of non-overlapping plots. In this study, we investigate shape effects for ALS-based forest inventories using circular and square plot shapes. This has not been examined earlier. Aboveground biomass was used as the response variable. The sampling design was created in a way that the probability of selection for any location inside a stem-mapped 30 m × 30 m plot was the same for the circular (radius 7.95 m) and square (side length 14.09 m) plot. This configuration enabled us to compare circular and square plots with the same areas and identical sampling probabilities for every tree in the population. Our primary finding is that for equal area square and circular plots, there is no evidence of systematic prediction error when a model fitted to one shape is used to predict for the other shape. Our secondary finding is that root mean square error (RMSE) value is slightly underestimated (1.2 per cent) when a model fitted to circular plots is used to predict for square plots. A small underestimation of RMSE due to plot shape effect has hardly practical significance in stand-level forest management inventories, but the plot shape effect may be problematic in large area forest surveys.
Noncanonical Role of Telomerase in Regulation of Microvascular Redox Environment With Implications for Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Ait-Aissa K , Norwood-Toro L E , Terwoord J , Young M , Paniagua L A , Hader S N , Hughes W E , Hockenberry J C , Beare J E , Linn J , Kohmoto T , Kim J , Betts D H , LeBlanc A J , Gutterman D D , Beyer A M
Published: September 2022

Telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) (catalytic subunit of telomerase) is linked to the development of coronary artery disease (CAD); however, whether the role of nuclear vs. mitchondrial actions of TERT is involved is not determined. Dominant-negative TERT splice variants contribute to decreased mitochondrial integrity and promote elevated reactive oxygen species production. We hypothesize that a decrease in mitochondrial TERT would increase mtDNA damage, promoting a pro-oxidative redox environment. The goal of this study is to define whether mitochondrial TERT is sufficient to maintain nitric oxide as the underlying mechanism of flow-mediated dilation by preserving mtDNA integrity.Immunoblots and quantitative polymerase chain reaction were used to show elevated levels of splice variants α- and β-deletion TERT tissue from subjects with and without CAD. Genetic, pharmacological, and molecular tools were used to manipulate TERT localization. Isolated vessel preparations and fluorescence-based quantification of mtH2O2 and NO showed that reduction of TERT in the nucleus increased flow induced NO and decreased mtH2O2 levels, while prevention of mitochondrial import of TERT augmented pathological effects. Further elevated mtDNA damage was observed in tissue from subjects with CAD and initiation of mtDNA repair mechanisms was sufficient to restore NO-mediated dilation in vessels from patients with CAD. The work presented is the first evidence that catalytically active mitochondrial TERT, independent of its nuclear functions, plays a critical physiological role in preserving NO-mediated vasodilation and the balance of mitochondrial to nuclear TERT is fundamentally altered in states of human disease that are driven by increased expression of dominant negative splice variants.
Migration and Cognitive Health Disparities: The Arab American and Refugee Case
Authors: Al-Rousan Tala , Kamalyan Lily , Bernstein Sideman Alissa , Miller Bruce , AlHeresh Rawan , Moore Alison , Marquine María J , Argeros Grigoris , Ajrouch Kristine J
Published: September 2022

Objectives

This study investigates whether the year of arrival to the United States (U.S.) and birthplace relate to postmigration cognitive difficulties among foreign- and U.S.-born Arab Americans in later life.

Methods

We analyzed 19 years (2000–2019) of data from the American Community Survey Public Use Microdata Samples (weighted N = 393,501; ages ≥ 50 years). Cognitive difficulty was based on self-reported data, and weighted means, percentages, adjusted prevalence estimates, and adjusted odds ratio were calculated.

Results

Controlling only for demographics, foreign-born Arabs reported higher odds of cognitive difficulty compared to U.S.-born Arabs across all arrival cohorts (p < .001). After accounting for economic and integration factors, those who arrived between 1991 and 2000 had higher odds (odds ratio [OR] = 1.06, 95% confidence interval [CI] =1.00, 1.19, p < .01), while those who arrived after 2001 had lower odds (OR = 0.87, 95% CI = 0.78, 0.97, p < .001) of cognitive difficulty. Lacking English proficiency (OR = 1.90, 95% CI = 1.82, 1.98, p < .001) was related to higher odds, whereas not being a U.S. citizen was significantly associated with lower odds (OR = 0.89, 95% CI = 0.52, 0.94, p < .001) of cognitive difficulty. Yet, results varied by birthplace. Migrants born in Iraq consistently reported the highest odds of cognitive difficulty across all arrival cohorts.

Discussion

Migration history and birthplace may be important factors explaining cognitive disparities among the diverse group of Arab migrants and Arab Americans. Future research examining mechanisms underlying these associations and the impact of migration on cognitive health is needed to address cognitive disparities in migrants.
Comparative maternal protein profiling of mouse biparental and uniparental embryos
Authors: Chen Fumei , Ma Buguo , Lin Yongda , Luo Xin , Xu Tao , Zhang Yuan , Chen Fang , Li Yanfei , Zhang Yaoyao , Luo Bin , Zhang Qingmei , Xie Xiaoxun
Published: September 2022

Background

Maternal proteins have important roles during early embryonic development. However, our understanding of maternal proteins is still very limited. The integrated analysis of mouse uniparental (parthenogenetic) and biparental (fertilized) embryos at the protein level creates a protein expression landscape that can be used to explore preimplantation mouse development.

Results

Using label-free quantitative mass spectrometry (MS) analysis, we report on the maternal proteome of mouse parthenogenetic embryos at pronucleus, 2-cell, 4-cell, 8-cell, morula, and blastocyst stages and highlight dynamic changes in protein expression. In addition, comparison of proteomic profiles of parthenogenotes and fertilized embryos highlights the different fates of maternal proteins. Enrichment analysis uncovered a set of maternal proteins that are strongly correlated with the subcortical maternal complex, and we report that in parthenogenotes, some of these maternal proteins escape the fate of protein degradation. Moreover, we identified a new maternal factor-Fbxw24, and highlight its importance in early embryonic development. We report that Fbxw24 interacts with Ddb1-Cul4b and may regulate maternal protein degradation in mouse.

Conclusions

Our study provides an invaluable resource for mechanistic analysis of maternal proteins and highlights the role of the novel maternal factor Fbw24 in regulating maternal protein degradation during preimplantation embryo development.
Directional and seasonal variations of seismic ambient noise in southeastern Canada and the NE USA
Authors: Bagherpur Mojaver Omid , Darbyshire Fiona
Published: September 2022

Ambient seismic noise is mainly generated in oceans through the interactions between the atmosphere, ocean waves and the solid Earth. Study areas located near the edges of continents are thus subject to receiving an inhomogeneous noise field that could cause bias in ambient noise wave attenuation measurements and tomography studies. Ambient seismic noise characteristics across SE Canada and the NE USA are studied in detail at a regional scale for the first time, due to the availability of over 2 yr of data (2013–2015) recorded at 69 broad-band seismographs. This large, dense data set allowed us to use a back-projection technique to investigate both the azimuthal and temporal variations of the ambient noise. This method is based on a statistical analysis of signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs) of the waveforms in the calculated empirical Green’s functions for pairs of stations. We propose a new method of analysing the SNR by modifying the already existing concept of fan diagrams to include both causal and acausal components of the noise cross-correlograms in the analysis. We investigate directional and seasonal variations of the recorded noise data across the study area at the three main passbands of the seismic noise spectrum including the secondary microseisms (SM; 3–10 s), the primary microseisms (PM; 10–30 s), and the seismic hum (Hum; 30–300 s). We observe that the strongest and weakest signals are received at the SM and Hum bands, respectively. Considering the results of this study along with those from previous studies, we conclude that the strongest seismic noise arrivals at the three passbands investigated in this study (i.e. SM, PM and Hum) are generated at different locations in the Atlantic, Pacific and Arctic oceans.
Impacts of price changes on public hospital reforms in China: evidence from 25 million patients at tertiary hospitals
Authors: Zhu Dawei , Shi Xuefeng , Chen Siyuan , Ye Xin , He Ping
Published: September 2022

China’s public hospital price change reform was progressively piloted at urban-level tertiary hospitals in 2015, aiming to adjust the healthcare expenditure structure, reorient public hospitals towards social objectives and control inflated healthcare expenditure. This study investigates the impacts of price changes on inpatient expenditure, service quantity, quality and efficiency and whether the impacts varied in different specialities, treatments and hospitals. A difference-in-differences analysis was conducted using data from 25 million patients from 124 nationally representative tertiary hospitals between 2013 and 2018. The study analyses changes in total expenditure, drug, medical services and diagnostic test/medical consumables expenditure per admission, the use of antibiotics, performed surgery, readmission within 30 days and length of stay (LOS). These factors are examined before and after adjusting the price changes for demographic, socioeconomic and clinical covariates. The price changes decreased drug expenditure per admission (−13.5%, P < 0.001, USD 96.6) and increased medical services expenditure per admission (30.9%, P < 0.001, USD 153.3). They also reduced the LOS (−1.2%, P = 0.019, 0.1 days) while not significantly affecting total expenditure per admission, diagnostic test/medical consumables per admission and the use of antibiotics, surgery performed and readmission rates. In heterogeneity analysis, price changes reform increased efficiency in major diagnostic categories (MDCs) with high drug share and improved quality in nonoperating room surgical groups and hospitals with high drug share; however, it increased total expenditure in MDCs with low drug share or surgical groups. China’s public hospital price change reform generally adjusted the inpatient expenditure structure and reduced the LOS in tertiary public hospitals. Sufficient compensation from medical services and government subsidies that minimize the income effects may be the key to the success of price change reform.
Multiplexed functional genomic assays to decipher the noncoding genome
Authors: Cooper Yonatan A , Guo Qiuyu , Geschwind Daniel H
Published: September 2022

Linkage disequilibrium and the incomplete regulatory annotation of the noncoding genome complicates the identification of functional noncoding genetic variants and their causal association with disease. Current computational methods for variant prioritization have limited predictive value, necessitating the application of highly parallelized experimental assays to efficiently identify functional noncoding variation. Here, we summarize two distinct approaches, massively parallel reporter assays and CRISPR-based pooled screens and describe their flexible implementation to characterize human noncoding genetic variation at unprecedented scale. Each approach provides unique advantages and limitations, highlighting the importance of multimodal methodological integration. These multiplexed assays of variant effects are undoubtedly poised to play a key role in the experimental characterization of noncoding genetic risk, informing our understanding of the underlying mechanisms of disease-associated loci and the development of more robust predictive classification algorithms.
Large-scale historic habitat loss in estuaries and its implications for commercial and recreational fin fisheries
Authors: Stamp Thomas , West Elizabeth , Robbins Tim , Plenty Shaun , Sheehan Emma
Published: September 2022

Estuaries provide important nursery and feeding habitat for numerous commercially and ecologically important fish, however, have been historically subject to substantial habitat alteration/degradation via environmental fluctuations, sea level rise, human activity on intertidal habitats, and adjacent land management. This review has summarized estuarine habitat use for 12 economically important finfish in the United Kingdom, of which seven were found to utilize estuarine habitats e.g. saltmarsh during their life cycle. This review reveals that ∼2500 km2 of intertidal habitat has been lost from estuaries in England and Wales since 1843. The implications of this large-scale habitat loss and continued anthropogenic disturbance within estuaries for a variety of fish species is discussed, in particular the requirement of finfish for particular habitats to be accessible and in a suitable condition. As a result of the high economic and social value of commercial and recreational fisheries, it is suggested that further research attention should investigate the spatial ecology of fish. Holistic fisheries management policies should also be considered, which would both sustainably manage fisheries landings but also account for the habitat requirements of the fisheries species.
Prevalence of hypertension among type 2 diabetes mellitus patients in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Haile Teklehaimanot Gereziher , Mariye Teklewoini , Tadesse Degena Bahrey , Gebremeskel Gebreamlak Gebremedhn , Asefa Guesh Gebreayezgi , Getachew Tamirat
Published: September 2022

Background

Hypertension among diabetic patients is a worldwide public health challenge and a leading modifiable risk factor for other cardiovascular diseases and death. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of hypertension among diabetic patients in Ethiopia.

Methods

The studies were selected using PubMed, Embase, Health InterNetwork Access to Research Initiative and Cochrane Library databases and Google searches. Two independent authors carried out the data extraction using a predetermined and structured method of data collection. R version 3.5.3 and RStudio version 1.2.5003 were used for analysing the data. To assess possible publication bias, funnel plot test methods were used. The guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses were used to publish the results. This study was registered in the Prospective Register Systematic Reviews (CRD42020170649).

Results

A total of 218 articles were identified but only 6 six full-text abstract papers were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. The random effects model analysis showed that the pooled prevalence of hypertension among type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) patients in Ethiopia was 55% (95% confidence interval [CI] 49 to 61). The subgroup analysis of the pooled prevalence of hypertension among type 2 DM patients in the Oromia and Southern regions was 51% (95% CI 42 to 59) and 58% (95% CI 54 to 63), respectively. The pooled prevalence of hypertension among type 2 DM patients was higher among urban residents (60% [95% CI 54 to 67] and 52% [95% CI 41 to 63] among urban and rural residents, respectively).

Conclusions

This study showed a high pooled prevalence of hypertension among type 2 DM patients in Ethiopia. Appropriate preventive measures should be implemented to reduce the burden of hypertension among DM patients in Ethiopia.
Digital Multilateralism in Practice: Extending Critical Policy Ethnography to Digital Negotiation Sites
Authors: Vadrot Alice B M , Ruiz Rodríguez Silvia C
Published: September 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly increased the use of online tools in the conduct of multilateral environmental negotiations. Although scholars have recognized that information and communication technologies have gradually been reshaping traditional diplomatic practice, such technologies are not considered to be transformative of diplomatic practice itself. However, owing to the COVID-19 pandemic states have had to rush into unprecedented and unpredictable forms of digital cooperation that are poorly understood. To illuminate this uncharted area, our research applies combined digital and critical policy ethnography to two online dialogues within the framework of ongoing negotiations under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea toward a new treaty for the protection and sustainable use of marine biodiversity beyond national jurisdiction. Digital critical policy ethnography conducted at two online sites enables us to study the political effects of emerging international practices. We re-interpret digital diplomacy in terms of “communities of practice” developing across, and connecting physical and digital sites. Virtual communications amongst state and non-state actors mirror traditional forms of diplomacy whilst introducing new practices that may change conventional forms of international treaty-making. We propose the term digital multilateralism to capture these new forms and conclude that it can have two effects: deepen the background knowledge of actors that form a community of practice and create new inequalities.
Effects of feeding different probiotic types on metabolic, performance, and carcass responses of Bos indicus feedlot cattle offered a high-concentrate diet
Authors: Dias Bruno G C , Santos Flávio A P , Meschiatti Murillo , Brixner Bárbara M , Almeida Alecsander A , Queiroz Oscar , Cappellozza Bruno I
Published: September 2022

Two experiments were designed to evaluate the effects of different probiotic combinations on rumen fermentation characteristics, performance, and carcass characteristics of feedlot Bos indicus beef bulls offered a high-concentrate diet. In experiment 1, 30 rumen-fistulated Nellore steers were blocked by initial body weight (BW = 350 ± 35.0 kg) and within blocks (n = 10), animals were randomly assigned to receive: 1) high-concentrate diet without probiotic supplementation (n = 10; CONT), 2) CONT plus 1 g per head of a probiotic mixture containing three strains of Enterococcus faecium and one strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae (3.5 × 109 CFU/g; n = 10; EFSC), and 3) CONT plus 2 g per head of a probiotic mixture containing Bacillus licheniformis and Bacillus subtilis (3.2 × 109 CFU/g; n = 10; BLBS). The experimental period lasted 35 d, being 28 d of adaptation and 7 d of sampling. From day 34 to day 35 of the experimental period, ruminal fluid and fecal samples were collected every 3 h, starting immediately before feeding (0 h) for rumen fermentation characteristics and apparent nutrient digestibility analysis, respectively. In experiment 2, 240 Nellore bulls were ranked by initial shrunk BW (375 ± 35.1 kg), assigned to pens (n = 4 bulls per pen), and pens randomly assigned to receive the same treatments as in experiment 1 (n = 20 pens per treatment). Regardless of treatment, all bulls received the same step-up and finishing diets throughout the experimental period, which lasted 115 d. In both experiments, data were analyzed as orthogonal contrasts to partition-specific treatment effects: 1) probiotic effect: CONT vs. PROB and 2) probiotic type: EFSC vs. BLBS (SAS Software Inc.). In experiment 1, no contrast effects were observed on nutrient intake, overall nutrient digestibility, and rumen fermentation analyses (P ≥ 0.13). Nonetheless, supplementation of probiotics, regardless of type (P = 0.59), reduced mean acetate:propionate ratio and rumen ammonia-N concentration vs. CONT (P ≤ 0.05). In experiment 2, no significant effects were observed for final BW and dry matter intake (P ≥ 0.12), but average daily gain and feed efficiency tended to improve (P ≤ 0.10) when probiotics were offered to the animals. Probiotic supplementation or type of probiotic did not affect carcass traits (P ≥ 0.22). In summary, supplementation of probiotics containing a mixture of E. faecium and S. cerevisiae or a mixture of B. licheniformis and B. subtilis reduced rumen acetate:propionate ratio and rumen ammonia-N levels and tended to improve the performance of feedlot cattle offered a high-concentrate diet.