bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inverse Estimation of Heat Transfer Coefficient and Reference Temperature in Jet Impingement
Authors: Kadam Anil Ramkishanrao , Hindasageri Vijaykumar , Kumar G. N.
Published: May 2020

Applications of impinging jets are wide-ranging from cooling to heating in industrial as well as domestic field. Most of the reported heat transfer distribution data to and from impinging jets have been found from steady-state measurements. This study utilizes the solution to three-dimensional (3D) inverse heat conduction problem to estimate transient temperatures on the impingement side. Then, the temperature gradient is determined near the impingement wall (∼0.01 mm inside) with which transient heat flux is estimated on the impingement side. Instead of steady-state values, transient heat flux and corresponding wall temperatures are utilized in a thin foil technique to find out heat transfer coefficient and reference temperature simultaneously. The scope of the present technique is examined through its application to impinging jets with various configurations such as laminar jet, turbulent jet, hot jet, cold jet, and multiple jets. In all cases, estimations are reasonably close. The application of this inverse technique can be extended to any configuration of jet impingement irrespective of geometry of nozzle (circular/rectangular), the orientation of nozzle (orthogonal/inclined), the temperature of a jet (hot/cold), Reynolds numbers (laminar/turbulent), the nozzle-to-plate spacing (any Z/d), and roughness of the plate surface. The effect of plate thickness on the accuracy of the present technique is also studied. Up to 5 mm thick plates can be used in impinging jet applications without worrying much on accuracy. The use of the present technique significantly reduces the experimental cost and time since it works on transient data of just a few seconds.
Ethics and governance for digital disease surveillance
Authors: Mello Michelle M. , Wang C. Jason
Published: May 2020

The question is not whether to use new data sources but how
A Phase 2 Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial of MHAA4549A, a Monoclonal Antibody, plus Oseltamivir in Patients Hospitalized with Severe Influenza A Virus Infection
Authors: Lim Jeremy J. , Nilsson Anna C. , Silverman Michael , Assy Nimer , Kulkarni Priya , McBride Jacqueline M. , Deng Rong , Li Chloe , Yang Xiaoying , Nguyen Allen , Horn Priscilla , Maia Mauricio , Castro Aide , Peck Melicent C. , Galanter Joshua , Chu Tom , Newton Elizabeth M. , Tavel Jorge A.
Published: May 2020

For patients hospitalized with severe influenza A virus infection, morbidity and mortality remain high. MHAA4549A, a human monoclonal antibody targeting the influenza A virus hemagglutinin stalk, has demonstrated pharmacological activity in animal studies and in a human influenza A challenge study. We evaluated the safety and efficacy of MHAA4549A plus oseltamivir against influenza A virus infection in hospitalized patients. The CRANE trial was a phase 2b randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of single intravenous (i.
SalmonellaPersistence and Host Immunity Are Dictated by the Anatomical Microenvironment
Authors: Kurtz Jonathan R , Nieves Wildaliz , Bauer David L. , Israel Kate E. , Adcox Haley E. , Gunn John S. , Morici Lisa A. , McLachlan James B.
Published: May 2020

The intracellular bacterial pathogenSalmonellais able to evade the immune system and persist within the host. In some cases, these persistent infections are asymptomatic for long periods and represent a significant public health hazard because the hosts are potential chronic carriers, yet the mechanisms that control persistence are incompletely understood. Using a mouse model of chronic typhoid fever combined with major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II tetramers to interrogate endogenous,Salmonella-specific CD4+helper T cells, we show that certain host microenvironments may favorably contribute to a pathogen’s ability to persistin vivo.
An Infection-Based Murine Model for Papillomavirus-Associated Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Wei Tao , Buehler Darya , Ward-Shaw Ella , Lambert Paul F.
Published: May 2020

The species specificity of papillomavirus has limited the development of an infection-based animal model to study HPV-associated head and neck carcinogenesis. Our study presents a novel
in vivo
model using the mouse papillomavirus MmuPV1 to study papillomavirus-associated head and neck cancer. In our model, MmuPV1 infects and causes lesions in both immunodeficient and genetically immunocompetent strains of mice. These virally induced lesions carry features associated with both HPV infections and HPV-associated carcinogenesis. Combined with previously identified cancer cofactors, MmuPV1 causes invasive squamous cell carcinomas in mice. This model provides opportunities for basic and translational studies of papillomavirus infection-based head and neck disease.
Spleen Tyrosine Kinase Is a Critical Regulator of Neutrophil Responses toCandidaSpecies
Authors: Negoro Paige E. , Xu Shuying , Dagher Zeina , Hopke Alex , Reedy Jennifer L. , Feldman Michael B. , Khan Nida S. , Viens Adam L. , Alexander Natalie J. , Atallah Natalie J. , Scherer Allison K. , Dutko Richard A. , Jeffery Jane , Kernien John F. , Fites J. Scott , Nett Jeniel E. , Klein Bruce S. , Vyas Jatin M. , Irimia Daniel , Sykes David B. , Mansour Michael K.
Published: May 2020

Neutrophils are recognized to represent significant immune cell mediators for the clearance and elimination of the human-pathogenic fungal pathogenCandida. The sensing of fungi by innate cells is performed, in part, through lectin receptor recognition of cell wall components and downstream cellular activation by signaling components, including spleen tyrosine kinase (Syk). While the essential role of Syk in macrophages and dendritic cells is clear, there remains uncertainty with respect to its contribution in neutrophils. In this study, we demonstrated that Syk is critical for multiple cellular functions in neutrophils responding to major human-pathogenicCandidaspecies. These data not only demonstrate the vital nature of Syk with respect to the control of fungi by neutrophils but also warn of the potential infectious complications arising from the recent clinical development of novel Syk inhibitors for hematologic and autoimmune disorders.
Space Is More Important than Season when Shaping Soil Microbial Communities at a Large Spatial Scale
Authors: Zhang Kaoping , Delgado-Baquerizo Manuel , Zhu Yong-Guan , Chu Haiyan
Published: May 2020

Both space and time are key factors that regulate microbial community, but microbial temporal variation is often ignored at a large spatial scale. In this study, we compared spatial and seasonal effects on bacterial and fungal diversity variation across an 878-km transect and found direct evidence that space is far more important than season in regulating the soil microbial community. Partitioning the effect of season, space and environmental variables on microbial community, we further found that fast-changing environmental factors contributed to microbial temporal variation.
Preventing diabetes after pregnancy with gestational diabetes in a Cree community: an inductive thematic analysis
Authors: Pace Romina , Loon Orenda , Chan Deborah , Porada Helene , Godin Catherine , Linton Jonathan , Linton Paul , Torrie Jill , Dasgupta Kaberi
Published: May 2020

Introduction

Historical and political factors underpin the disproportional burden of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in women, a harbinger of future T2DM, in Indigenous populations. There is a need for T2DM prevention strategies driven by the voices of Indigenous women. In this study, we aimed to understand the perspectives of Cree women with prior GDM living in northern Quebec, where over a quarter of pregnancies are complicated by GDM.

Research design and methods

A local healthcare worker invited women with GDM in the prior 5 years to participate in semistructured interviews. A Cree-origin research partner and a researcher jointly conducted interviews in-person or by teleconference. Open-ended questions addressed GDM experience, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and needs/preferences pertinent to designing a T2DM prevention program aimed at women affected by GDM. We adopted an inductive thematic analysis framework to categorize experiences and opinions.

Results

Among the 13 mothers interviewed, some success with health behavior changes during pregnancy was reported but there were difficulties postpartum resulting from time constraints, costs of healthy foods, discomfort at the gym related to not being perceived as athletic, and safety concerns. They acknowledged the existence of programs addressing T2DM prevention in their community but did not participate. They endorsed preferences for group sessions, with family collaboration and childcare, that addressed healthy cooking and physical activity and incorporated traditional elements.

Conclusion

Cree mothers with a history of GDM highlighted several barriers to diabetes prevention. We are working to address these barriers through the creation of a Cree-facilitator-led community-based intervention.
A UK Military nurse practitioner on Exercise SAIF SAREEA 3: the first Overseas deployment
Authors: Royal P M , Smith M B
Published: May 2020

As the Queen Alexandra’s Royal Army Nursing Corps celebrates its 70th Anniversary, army nursing continues to advance patient care delivery to new levels. Advanced level nursing practice has moved from the relatively ‘calm’ confines of the NHS to the austere desert of Oman. This article will provide a personal account of the first deployment of a military nurse practitioner since it was formally introduced in 2012 to frontline medicine, leading an armoured prehospital treatment team.
Lung cancer survival and mortality in Taiwan following the initial launch of targeted therapies: an interrupted time series study
Authors: Hsu Jason C , Wei Chen-Fang , Yang Szu-Chun , Lin Peng-Chan , Lee Yang-Cheng , Lu Christine Y
Published: May 2020

Objectives

Two oral targeted therapies, gefitinib and erlotinib, were first approved and then launched into the market for treatment of late-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in Taiwan in 2003 and 2006, respectively. The aim of this study were to determine the trends in lung cancer burden and examine changes in lung cancer-related survival rates and mortality following the launch of these new drugs.

Setting

Yearly lung cancer-related data (1994–2013), including incidence, number of newly diagnosed patients, survival rate and mortality, were retrieved from the Taiwan Cancer Registry Database.

Design and outcome measures

Using a time series design with autoregressive integrated moving average model, we investigated and projected trends in the incidence and early diagnosis of lung cancer in Taiwan. We also estimated the changes in survival rates and mortality following the launch of targeted therapies using interrupted time series and segmented regression models.

Results

The age-standardised incidence of lung cancer increased from 22.53 per 100 000 people in 1994 to 34.09 in 2013, and it was projected to reach 38.98 by 2020. The rate of early-stage NSCLC at diagnosis increased from 12.63% in 2004 to 23.99% in 2013, and it was projected to reach 32.95% by 2020. The 2-year lung cancer survival increased by 19.81% (95% CI 14.90% to 24.71%) 3 years following the launch of gefitinib. Lung cancer mortality declined by 5.97% (95% CI −8.20% to −3.73%) 3 years following the launch of gefitinib.

Conclusions

Lung cancer survival rate increased and mortality decreased significantly following the launch of gefitinib and erlotinib in Taiwan.
Mixed methods evaluation of workshops for citizen health advocates about financial conflicts of interests in healthcare
Authors: Moynihan Ray , Fabbri Alice , Parker Lisa , Bero Lisa
Published: May 2020

Objectives

To evaluate workshops delivered to citizen health advocates about financial conflicts of interest in healthcare, transparency databases which disclose industry payments in the USA and Australia and the pros and cons of advocacy groups accepting industry sponsorship.

Design

Thematic analysis of workshop participant recorded discussions, and pre, post and 3-month follow-up questionnaires on confidence and knowledge about financial conflicts of interest, transparency databases and the merits of advocacy organisations accepting industry sponsorship.

Participants and setting

48 citizen health advocates participated in a half-day workshop, held in four Australian cities, which ended with a 1-hour recorded discussion. Participants were recruited with assistance from leading state-based health advocacy organisations.

Results

The thematic analysis of the recorded discussions revealed two major themes, (i) transparency and (ii) relationships with industry; and three minor themes: a lack of awareness about conflicts of interest and transparency, issues relating to trust and next steps in terms of potential reforms. In relation to transparency, participants felt strong support for transparency, strongly favouring the mandatory, extensive and accessible US Open Payments over the self-regulatory Australian model. Participants also noted that transparency had limitations, including the utility of disclosed information. In relation to industry sponsorship of advocacy groups, some participants expressed an openness to and support for accepting sponsorship, while many expressed a caution around potential downsides. Questionnaire results showed increases in both confidence and knowledge after the workshop, though only 23 of 48 participants returned the 3-month follow-up questionnaire.

Conclusions

Following a half-day workshop, citizen health advocates recruited by leading health advocacy organisations expressed strong support for tough transparency rules, and mixed feelings about advocacy groups accepting sponsorship from industry. Study limitations include a non-representative sample and a large drop-out at the 3-month post-workshop follow-up.
Machine learning health-related applications in low-income and middle-income countries: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Carrillo-Larco Rodrigo M , Tudor Car Lorainne , Pearson-Stuttard Jonathan , Panch Trishan , Miranda J Jaime , Atun Rifat
Published: May 2020

Introduction

Machine learning (ML) has been used in bio-medical research, and recently in clinical and public health research. However, much of the available evidence comes from high-income countries, where different health profiles challenge the application of this research to low/middle-income countries (LMICs). It is largely unknown what ML applications are available for LMICs that can support and advance clinical medicine and public health. We aim to address this gap by conducting a scoping review of health-related ML applications in LMICs.

Methods and analysis

This scoping review will follow the methodology proposed by Levac et al. The search strategy is informed by recent systematic reviews of ML health-related applications. We will search Embase, Medline and Global Health (through Ovid), Cochrane and Google Scholar; we will present the date of our searches in the final review. Titles and abstracts will be screened by two reviewers independently; selected reports will be studied by two reviewers independently. Reports will be included if they are primary research where data have been analysed, ML techniques have been used on data from LMICs and they aimed to improve health-related outcomes. We will synthesise the information following evidence mapping recommendations.

Ethics and dissemination

The review will provide a comprehensive list of health-related ML applications in LMICs. The results will be disseminated through scientific publications. We also plan to launch a website where ML models can be hosted so that researchers, policymakers and the general public can readily access them.
Biomarkers of exposure and early effect in three contaminated sites of southern Italy: protocols for etiological epidemiological studies
Authors: Gorini Francesca , Bustaffa Elisa , Bolignano Davide , Cori Liliana , Faita Francesco , Gastaldelli Amalia , Interdonato Monica , Minichilli Fabizio , Quattrone Giancarlo , Squadrito Francesco , Tripepi Giovanni , Vassalle Cristina , Bianchi Fabrizio
Published: May 2020

Introduction

Environmental pollution has been progressively becoming one of the main risk factors to human diseases. In particular, populations living in high-contaminated sites are particularly exposed to environmental toxicants, with consequent increased risks to human health. In Italy, there are currently ongoing three epidemiological etiological studies aimed at evaluating the association between exposure to inorganic and organic chemicals and presence of biological markers of early effects in population living in three National Priority Contaminated Sites (NPCSs). Specifically, the correlations concern preclinical indicators of liver disease in Priolo NPCS, thyroid diseases in Milazzo-Valle del Mela NPCS and cardiovascular risk and kidney damage in Crotone NPCS.

Methods and analysis

Overall, approximately 1300 subjects of both sexes will be enrolled in the three NPCSs according to specific inclusion criteria. For each subject, serum and urine specimens are collected, on which the determination of biological markers of exposure and early effects for the selected outcomes are performed. Individual information on environmental and occupational exposure, medical history, diet and life habits is obtained through questionnaires provided by web platform. In Milazzo-Valle del Mela and Crotone NPCSs, not invasive instrumental and imaging examinations are performed in order to evaluate further risk factors of thyroid carcinoma and cardiovascular disease, respectively.

Ethics and dissemination

The protocol studies have been approved by the Ethics Committees responsible for the three involved NPCSs: the Ethics Committee ‘Catania 2’ for the NPCS of Priolo (21 July 2017, n. 500/2017/CECT2), the Ethics Committee of the University Hospitals of Messina for the NPCS of Milazzo-Valle del Mela (19 February 2018, n.2/2018); the Ethics Committee of the Region of Calabria for the NPCS of Crotone (20 July 2017, n. 174). Results will be disseminated among policy-makers, citizens, stakeholders and scientific community through the organisation of conferences and events, and the publication on international peer/reviewed journals.
Can a teacher-led mindfulness intervention for new school entrants improve child outcomes? Protocol for a school cluster randomised controlled trial
Authors: Quach Jon L , Deery Ben , Kern Margaret , Clinton Janet , Gold Lisa , Orsini Francesca , Sciberras Emma
Published: May 2020

Introduction

The first years of school are critical in establishing a foundation for positive long-term academic, social and well-being outcomes. Mindfulness-based interventions may help students transition well into school, but few robust studies have been conducted in this age group. We aim to determine whether compared with controls, children who receive a mindfulness intervention within the first years of primary school have better: (1) immediate attention/short-term memory at 18 months post-randomisation (primary outcome); (2) inhibition, working memory and cognitive flexibility at 18 months post-randomisation; (3) socio-emotional well-being, emotion-regulation and mental health-related behaviours at 6 and 18 months post-randomisation; (4) sustained changes in teacher practice and classroom interactions at 18 months post-randomisation. Furthermore, we aim to determine whether the implementation predicts the efficacy of the intervention, and the cost effectiveness relative to outcomes.

Methods and analysis

This cluster randomised controlled trial will be conducted in 22 primary schools in disadvantaged areas of Melbourne, Australia. 826 students in the first year of primary school will be recruited to detect between groups differences of Cohen’s d=0.25 at the 18-month follow-up. Parent, teacher and child-assessment measures of child attention, emotion-regulation, executive functioning, socio-emotional well-being, mental health-related behaviour and learning, parent mental well-being, teacher well-being will be collected 6 and 18 months post-randomisation. Implementation factors will be measured throughout the study. Intention-to-treat analyses, accounting for clustering within schools and classes, will adopt a two-level random effects linear regression model to examine outcomes for the intervention versus control students. Unadjusted and analyses adjusted for baseline scores, baseline age, gender and family socioeconomic status will be conducted.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval has been received by the Human Research Ethics Committee at the University of Melbourne. Findings will be reported in peer-review publications, national and international conference presentations and research snapshots directly provided to participating schools and families.

Pre-Results Trial registration number

Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12619000326190).
Preferred and actual place of death in haematological malignancies: a report from the UK haematological malignancy research network
Authors: Sheridan Rebecca , Roman Eve , Smith Alex G , Turner Andrew , Garry Anne C , Patmore Russell , Howard Martin R , Howell Debra A
Published: May 2020

Objectives

Hospital death is comparatively common in people with haematological cancers, but little is known about patient preferences. This study investigated actual and preferred place of death, concurrence between these and characteristics of preferred place discussions.

Methods

Set within a population-based haematological malignancy patient cohort, adults (≥18 years) diagnosed 2004–2012 who died 2011–2012 were included (n=963). Data were obtained via routine linkages (date, place and cause of death) and abstraction of hospital records (diagnosis, demographics, preferred place discussions). Logistic regression investigated associations between patient and clinical factors and place of death, and factors associated with the likelihood of having a preferred place discussion.

Results

Of 892 patients (92.6%) alive 2 weeks after diagnosis, 58.0% subsequently died in hospital (home, 20.0%; care home, 11.9%; hospice, 10.2%). A preferred place discussion was documented for 453 patients (50.8%). Discussions were more likely in women (p=0.003), those referred to specialist palliative care (p<0.001), and where cause of death was haematological cancer (p<0.001); and less likely in those living in deprived areas (p=0.005). Patients with a discussion were significantly (p<0.05) less likely to die in hospital. Last recorded preferences were: home (40.6%), hospice (18.1%), hospital (17.7%) and care home (14.1%); two-thirds died in their final preferred place. Multiple discussions occurred for 58.3% of the 453, with preferences varying by proximity to death and participants in the discussion.

Conclusion

Challenges remain in ensuring that patients are supported to have meaningful end-of-life discussions, with healthcare services that are able to respond to changing decisions over time.
Diagnostic accuracy of handheld electrocardiogram devices in detecting atrial fibrillation in adults in community versus hospital settings: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wong Kam Cheong , Klimis Harry , Lowres Nicole , von Huben Amy , Marschner Simone , Chow Clara K
Published: May 2020

With increasing use of handheld ECG devices for atrial fibrillation (AF) screening, it is important to understand their accuracy in community and hospital settings and how it differs among settings and other factors. A systematic review of eligible studies from community or hospital settings reporting the diagnostic accuracy of handheld ECG devices (ie, devices producing a rhythm strip) in detecting AF in adults, compared with a gold standard 12-lead ECG or Holter monitor, was performed. Bivariate hierarchical random-effects meta-analysis and meta-regression were performed using R V.3.6.0. The search identified 858 articles, of which 14 were included. Six studies recruited from community (n=6064 ECGs) and eight studies from hospital (n=2116 ECGs) settings. The pooled sensitivity was 89% (95% CI 81% to 94%) in the community and 92% (95% CI 83% to 97%) in the hospital. The pooled specificity was 99% (95% CI 98% to 99%) in the community and 95% (95% CI 90% to 98%) in the hospital. Accuracy of ECG devices varied: sensitivity ranged from 54.5% to 100% and specificity ranged from 61.9% to 100%. Meta-regression showed that setting (p=0.032) and ECG device type (p=0.022) significantly contributed to variations in sensitivity and specificity. The pooled sensitivity and specificity of single-lead handheld ECG devices were high. Setting and handheld ECG device type were significant factors of variation in sensitivity and specificity. These findings suggest that the setting including user training and handheld ECG device type should be carefully reviewed.
Strengthening effects of bone marrow mononuclear cells with intensive atorvastatin in acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Yang Yue-Jin , Qian Hai-Yan , Song Lei , Geng Yong-Jian , Gao Run-lin , Li Na , Wang Hong , Tian Xia-Qiu , Huang Ji , Huang Pei-Sen , Xu Jun , Shen Rui , Lu Min-Jie , Zhao Shi-Hua , Wu Wei-Chun , Wu Yuan , Zhang Jun , Qian Jie , Xu Jun-Yan , Xiong Yu-Yan
Published: May 2020

Objective

To test whether intensive atorvastatin (ATV) increases the efficacy of transplantation with autologous bone marrow mononuclear cells (MNCs) in patients suffering from anterior ST-elevated myocardial infarction (STEMI).

Methods

This clinical trial was under a 2×2 factorial design, enrolling 100 STEMI patients, randomly into four groups of regular (RA) or intensive ATV (IA) with MNCs or placebo. The primary endpoint was the change of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) at 1-year follow-up from baseline, primarily assessed by MRI. The secondary endpoints included other parameters of cardiac function, remodelling and regeneration determined by MRI, echocardiography, positron emission tomography (PET) and biomarkers.

Results

All the STEMI patients with transplantation of MNCs showed significantly increased LVEF change values than those with placebo (p=0.01) with only in the IA+MNCs patients group demonstrating significantly elevation of LVEF than in the IA+placebo group (+12.6% (95%CI 10.4 to 19.3) vs +5.0% (95%CI 4.0 to 10.0), p=0.001), pointing to a better synergy between ATV and MNCs (p=0.019). PET analysis revealed significantly increased viable areas of myocardium (p=0.015), while the scar sizes (p=0.026) and blood aminoterminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (p<0.034) reduced. All these above benefits of MNCs were also attributed to IA+MNCs instead of RA+MNCs group of patients with STEMI.

Conclusions

Intensive ATV treatment augments the therapeutic efficacy of MNCs in patients with anterior STEMI at the convalescent stage. The treatment with the protocol of intensive ATV and MNC combination offers a clinically essential approach for myocardial infarction.

Trial registration number

NCT00979758.
Catheter ablation for the management of atrial fibrillation: current technical perspectives
Authors: Hong Kathryn Lauren , Borges Jazlyn , Glover Benedict
Published: May 2020

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia encountered in clinical practice, with a prevalence that increases alongside the ageing population worldwide. The management of AF involves restoration of sinus rhythm through antiarrhythmic drug therapy. Yet, these medications have only modest efficacy in achieving long-term success, have not shown to result in a mortality benefit, are frequently not tolerated and have associated adverse side effects. Therefore, catheter ablation has become a valuable treatment approach for AF and even a viable first-line strategy in select cases. Traditionally, the combination of radiofrequency energy and a three-dimensional electroanatomical mapping system has been used to guide catheter ablation for AF. However, single-procedural efficacy and long-term outcomes still remain suboptimal for many patients, particularly those with persistent or long-standing AF. Recent advances in ablation technology and strategy, therefore, provide new procedural approaches for catheter-based treatment with the aim of overcoming current challenges in procedural duration and overall success. The aim of this paper was to provide an updated review of the current practices and techniques relating to ablation for AF and to compare the use of these strategies for paroxysmal and persistent AF.
Hospital meal intake in acute heart failure patients and its association with long-term outcomes
Authors: Yoshida Taizo , Shoji Satoshi , Shiraishi Yasuyuki , Kawana Masataka , Kohno Takashi , Inoue Kenji , Fukuda Keiichi , Heidenreich Paul A , Kohsaka Shun
Published: May 2020

Background

Risk prediction for hospitalised heart failure (HF, HHF) patients remains suboptimal. We aimed to determine the prognostic value of hospital food intake (FI) immediately before discharge among HHF patients.

Method

We analysed the data of 255 HHF patients extracted from the records of a single university hospital. The FI percentage of the three meals the day before hospital discharge was averaged. Patients were stratified into adequate FI (100% consumption) and inadequate FI (less than 100% consumption) groups. The primary outcome was the composite of all-cause mortality and/or HF readmission within 1 year.

Results

Only 49.3% of HHF patients consumed 100% of their meals. Patients with inadequate FI were older; predominantly women; and had a lower body mass index, higher brain natriuretic peptide levels and Clinical Frailty Scale scores at discharge than those with adequate FI. Inadequate FI was significantly associated with adverse outcomes after adjustments (HR 2.00; 95% CI 1.09 to 3.67; p=0.026). The effect of interaction by ejection fraction (EF) was highly significant: HF with preserved EF (≥40%) was significantly associated with inadequate FI with adverse outcomes (HR 4.95; 95% CI 1.71 to 14.36; p=0.003) but HF with reduced EF (<40%) was not (HR 0.77; 95% CI 0.31 to 1.95; p=0.590).

Conclusions

The hospital FI assessment might be a simple, useful tool for predicting and stratifying risk for HHF patients.
Frontiers in lattice nucleon structure
Authors: Lin Huey-Wen
Published: May 2020

In this paper, I review recent progress in lattice-QCD calculations of hadron structure with an emphasis on nucleon structure. A wide range of nucleon observables are being studied in modern lattice calculations, and important progress has been made at physical pion mass, including the spin decomposition of the nucleon and the Bjorken-[Formula: see text] dependence of hadron structure. Challenges and perspectives for future lattice hadron-structure calculations will be discussed.
How International Actors Help Enforce Domestic Deals
Authors: Matanock Aila M.
Published: May 2020

International actors at times seek to help bring peace, democracy, and human rights. Studies of how international actors help enforce political bargains between incumbent governments and their domestic opponents are proliferating. They show that opposition groups have trouble trusting incumbents to adhere to the political bargains they strike because incumbents can use their familiarity with state institutions and can use their asymmetric hold on power during bargain implementation to violate terms by retaining more of the status quo than agreed. International actors can overcome these “reversion problems,” however, by using monitoring mechanisms (often focused on electoral campaigns) and incentives conditioned on compliance. Reversion problems, and enforcement by international actors as a solution, are common across issue areas—arising when domestic actors try to end civil conflict, open elections, and reduce repression—but the literatures in these issue areas have largely remained segregated. This review proposes advancing this research agenda by unifying them and (re)examining the conditions under which this solution works best.
Investigating Viruses During the Transformation of Molecular Biology: Part II
Authors: Moss Bernard
Published: May 2020

My scientific career started at an extraordinary time, shortly after the discoveries of the helical structure of DNA, the central dogma of DNA to RNA to protein, and the genetic code. Part I of this series emphasizes my education and early studies highlighted by the isolation and characterization of numerous vaccinia virus enzymes, determination of the cap structure of messenger RNA, and development of poxviruses as gene expression vectors for use as recombinant vaccines. Here I describe a shift in my research focus to combine molecular biology and genetics for a comprehensive understanding of poxvirus biology. The dominant paradigm during the early years was to select a function, isolate the responsible proteins, and locate the corresponding gene, whereas later the common paradigm was to select a gene, make a mutation, and determine the altered function. Motivations, behind-the-scenes insights, importance of new technologies, and the vital roles of trainees and coworkers are emphasized.
Open microfluidic coculture reveals paracrine signaling from human kidney epithelial cells promotes kidney specificity of endothelial cells
Authors: Zhang Tianzi , Lih Daniel , Nagao Ryan J. , Xue Jun , Berthier Erwin , Himmelfarb Jonathan , Zheng Ying , Theberge Ashleigh B.
Published: May 2020

Endothelial cells (ECs) from different human organs possess organ-specific characteristics that support specific tissue regeneration and organ development. EC specificity is identified by both intrinsic and extrinsic cues, among which the parenchyma and organ-specific microenvironment are critical contributors. These extrinsic cues are, however, largely lost during ex vivo cultures. Outstanding challenges remain to understand and reestablish EC organ specificity for in vitro studies to recapitulate human organ-specific physiology. Here, we designed an open microfluidic platform to study the role of human kidney tubular epithelial cells in supporting EC specificity. The platform consists of two independent cell culture regions segregated with a half wall; culture media are added to connect the two culture regions at a desired time point, and signaling molecules can travel across the half wall (paracrine signaling). Specifically, we report that in the microscale coculture device, primary human kidney proximal tubule epithelial cells (HPTECs) rescued primary human kidney peritubular microvascular EC (HKMEC) monolayer integrity and fenestra formation and that HPTECs upregulated key HKMEC kidney-specific genes (hepatocyte nuclear factor 1 homeobox B, adherens junctions-associated protein 1, and potassium voltage-gated channel subfamily J member 16) and endothelial activation genes (vascular cell adhesion molecule-1, matrix metalloproteinase-7, and matrix metalloproteinase-10) in coculture. Coculturing with HPTECs also promoted kidney-specific genotype expression in human umbilical vein ECs and human pluripotent stem cell-derived ECs. Compared with culture in HPTEC conditioned media, coculture of ECs with HPTECs showed increased upregulation of kidney-specific genes, suggesting potential bidirectional paracrine signaling. Importantly, our device is compatible with standard pipettes, incubators, and imaging readouts and could also be easily adapted to study cell signaling between other rare or sensitive cells.
Multiplicity of Quasilinear Schrödinger Equation
Authors: Luo Xiaorong , Mao Anmin , Wang Xiangxiang
Published: May 2020

In this paper, we study the quasilinear Schrödinger equation involving concave and convex nonlinearities. When the pair of parameters belongs to a certain subset of ℝ2, we establish the existence of a nontrivial mountain pass-type solution and infinitely many negative energy solutions by using some new techniques and dual fountain theorem. Recent results from the literature are improved and extended.
Instantaneous and Noninstantaneous Impulsive Integrodifferential Equations in Banach Spaces
Authors: Abbas Saïd , Benchohra Mouffak , N'Guérékata Gaston M.
Published: May 2020

This paper deals with some existence of mild solutions for two classes of impulsive integrodifferential equations in Banach spaces. Our results are based on the fixed point theory and the concept of measure of noncompactness with the help of the resolvent operator. Two illustrative examples are given in the last section.
Peripheral Ameloblastoma of Upper Gingiva in a Patient with Port-Wine Stain
Authors: Al-Rawi Natheer H. , Othman Sahar , Samsudin Ab Rani
Published: May 2020

The peripheral ameloblastoma (PA), also known as extraosseous ameloblastoma, is a rare soft tissue tumor of odontogenic origin, accounting for 1–5% of all ameloblastoma. In some cases, saucerization of underlying bone is the only radiological evidence of this lesion, and PA has identical histological characteristics of intraosseous ameloblastoma. However, it is slow growing, less aggressive, and less invasive in nature. The present report describes a rare case of PA in the maxillary labial gingiva of a 37-year-old man with port-wine vascular malformation. PA was clinically diagnosed as a pyogenic granuloma, and following the surgical treatment of the lesion, its histological features were of ameloblastoma. This case illustrates the importance of including peripheral ameloblastoma in the differential diagnosis of painless exophytic gingival swelling.
Nrf2 Ablation Promotes Alzheimer’s Disease-Like Pathology in APP/PS1 Transgenic Mice: The Role of Neuroinflammation and Oxidative Stress
Authors: Ren Peng , Chen Jingwei , Li Bingxuan , Zhang Mengzhou , Yang Bei , Guo Xiangshen , Chen Ziyuan , Cheng Hao , Wang Pengfei , Wang Shuaibo , Wang Ning , Zhang Guohua , Wu Xu , Ma Dan , Guan Dawei , Zhao Rui
Published: May 2020

Introduction. Alzheimer’s disease (AD), the most common neurodegenerative disorder, is characterized by the accumulation of amyloid-β (Aβ) peptide and hyperphosphorylated tau protein. Accumulating evidence has revealed that the slow progressive deterioration of AD is associated with oxidative stress and chronic inflammation in the brain. Nuclear factor erythroid 2- (NF-E2-) related factor 2 (Nrf2), which acts through the Nrf2/ARE pathway, is a key regulator of the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory response. Although recent data show a link between Nrf2 and AD-related cognitive decline, the mechanism is still unknown. Thus, we explored how Nrf2 protects brain cells against the oxidative stress and inflammation of AD in a mouse model of AD (APP/PS1 transgenic (AT) mice) with genetic removal of Nrf2. Methods. The spatial learning and memory abilities of 12-month-old transgenic mice were evaluated using a Morris water maze test. Hippocampal levels of Nrf2, Aβ, and p-tauS404 and of astrocytes and microglia were determined by immunostaining. Inflammatory cytokines were determined by ELISA and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Oxidative stress was measured by 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine immunohistochemistry, and the antioxidant response was determined by qRT-PCR. Results. The spatial learning and memory abilities of AT mice were impaired after Nrf2 deletion. Aβ and p-tauS404 accumulation was increased in the hippocampus of AT/Nrf2-KO mice. Astroglial and microglial activation was exacerbated, followed by upregulation of the proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α. Conclusion. Our present results show that Nrf2 deficiency aggravates AD-like pathology in AT mice. This phenotype was associated with increased levels of oxidative and proinflammatory markers, which suggests that the Nrf2 pathway may be a promising therapeutic target for AD.
Does Modification of Amalgomer with Propolis Alter Its Physicomechanical Properties? An In Vitro Study
Authors: Abdallah Reham M. , Abdelghany Amr M. , Aref Neven S.
Published: May 2020

Objective. To assess if incorporating ethanolic extract of propolis into ceramic-reinforced glass ionomer (Amalgomer CR) might have an influence on its physicomechanical properties. Materials and Methods. Three groups were assessed; group I: Amalgomer CR (control) and two experimental groups (II and III) of propolis added to the liquid of Amalgomer CR with 25 and 50 v/v %, respectively. Evaluation parameters were color stability, compressive strength, microhardness, and surface roughness. Representative specimens of each group were analyzed by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray, X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to compare the results, followed by a Tukey post hoc test (p<0.05). Results. Nonsignificant color change for both groups of modified Amalgomer CR. Meanwhile, the two experimental groups exhibited a significant increase in both compressive strength and microhardness. Simultaneously, there was a significant difference in roughness values among groups with the lowest roughness values exhibited by the 50 v/v % propolis concentration. Conclusions. Modification of Amalgomer CR with 50 v/v % propolis may increase its mechanical properties without compromising its esthetic. Clinical Significance. Modification of Amalgomer CR by 50 v/v % propolis is supposed to be a hopeful restorative material with favorable characteristics.
Attitude Optimization Control of Unmanned Helicopter in Coal Mine Using Membrane Computing
Authors: Xu Jiachang , Huang Yourui , Liu Yu
Published: May 2020

Unmanned helicopter for mission inspection has good application value in intelligent coal mining, and attitude control is important. In this paper, membrane computing is introduced to realize attitude optimization control of an unmanned helicopter. First, we give the application scenarios of unmanned helicopters in coal mines. Secondly, we establish a dynamic model of an unmanned helicopter with environmental participation, and the attitude model of the helicopter is deduced based on this model. Further, the cellular membrane system suitable for the attitude model of an unmanned helicopter under the control parameters of environment mapping is constructed, and the cellular membrane controller based on the characteristics and operation rules of the membrane system is designed. The robust performance of the controller is proved theoretically, and by the semiphysical experiments, the performance of trajectory tracking is almost consistent and attitude angle control is less than±1°, in the range of±2°by wind disturbance. Compared with the linear feedback controller in the same experimental environment, the performance of the membrane controller is improved by nearly 0.4026 on average. It shows that the cellular membrane controller constructed has good effectiveness and robustness. This will provide a good application value for membrane computing in the field of accurate coal mining.
Simple Methods to Synthesize YVO4 Nanocrystals or Microcrystals without Any Templates or Surfactants
Authors: Xie Baogeng , Chen Min , Lin Junyue , Liu Xiaobing , Peng Shujun , Zhong Luping
Published: May 2020

YVO4 crystals with different sizes and shapes were produced through hydrothermal treatment and sonication method without any surfactants or templates. X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and photoluminescence (PL) were used to characterize the obtained products. YVO4 nanocrystals with spindle-like shape had been produced through the two different treating methods. YVO4 crystals, which are bipyramid-capped and micrometer-sized, had been obtained through a simple hydrothermal treatment. Uniform microsized cuboids had been produced through hydrothermal treatment with the final pH value = 2.5. The effects of different final pH values on the shape and crystallinity of products were studied. To determine photoluminescence performances, Eu3+(5%)-doped YVO4 nanocrystals had been synthesized through different methods in various environments and it had been confirmed that crystallinity would affect photoluminescence intensity.
The Existence of Solution of Diffusion Equation with the General Conformable Derivative
Authors: Li Shanshan , Zhang Shuqin , Liu Ruiying
Published: May 2020

In this paper, the general conformable fractional derivative is used in the classical diffusion equations, and the corresponding maximum principle is obtained. By the maximum principle, this paper proves the uniqueness of the solution and the continuous dependence on source function and initial-boundary conditions of the solution. Furthermore, by employing the variable separation method, this paper obtains some existence results and the asymptotic behavior of the classical solution.
Type II Diabetes Patients under Sildenafil Citrate: Case Series Showing Benefits and a Side Effect
Authors: Zimmermann Livia M. , Baptista Mauricio S. , Tardivo João Paulo , Pinhal Maria A.
Published: May 2020

Background. Diabetes mellitus is a highly prevalent disease with rapid universal growth. In 2013, there were already 382 million people with diabetes, and it is expected that by 2035, this number will double. Chronic hyperglycemia causes a series of biochemical and structural changes, especially in the eyes, kidneys, heart, arteries, and peripheral nerves, which usually leads to the progression of microvascular disease. Several literature reports showed that the chronic use of phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors enhances the insulin sensitivity, improves the markers of endothelial function, and helps in the treatment of severe extremity ischemia and pulmonary hypertension. We aim to test the effect of sildenafil citrate (SC) as a glucose and microcirculation regulator in diabetic patients, paying special attention to the consequences of its use in the regulation of blood glucose level. Case Presentation. Two male patients, aged 53 and 73 years, with type II diabetes, using oral hypoglycemic agents and presenting pathology associated with microcirculation alterations and ischemia, were medicated daily with SC. Both patients presented a reduction in the glycemic level, requiring lower doses or no other oral diabetes medications. Patient 1, who presented diabetic foot, was treated in the ambulatory, and patient 2, with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and consequent mild pulmonary hypertension, was treated in the office. In addition to the clinical improvement of foot wounds and dyspnea due to the increase in microcirculatory perfusion, hypoglycemic episodes were observed in both patients under SC. The patient with pulmonary hypertension experienced one severe hypoglycemia episode and had to be taken to an emergency room. Conclusion. Type 2 diabetic patients may benefit from the use of a phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor in order to improve the microcirculatory perfusion as well as glycemic control. However, adverse side effects may involve hypoglycemia. Since off-label use of SC in patients suffering from microcirculatory alterations has increased recently, our results showed that more studies are needed to verify the prevalence of hypoglycemia episodes as well as it's possible physiologic mechanism.