bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CNN Based Defect Recognition Model for Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing Images of Electrofusion Joints
Authors: Shi Jianfeng , Tao Yangji , Guo Weican , Zheng Jinyang
Published: October 2020

Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing (PA-UT) has been proved to be the most feasible way to inspect defects in electrofusion (EF) joints of polyethylene (PE) pipes. The recognition of defects in PA-UT results relies on the experience of operators, and results in inconsistent defective detection rate and low recognition speed. In this paper, an automatic defect recognition model for PA-UT inspection images was proposed based on convolutional neural network (CNN), realizing recognition of four typical defects in EF joint, i.e. wire dislocation, holes, lack of fusion and cold welding. The proposed recognition model consisted of anomaly detection model and defect detection model. The anomaly detection model recognized anomalies of PA -UT inspection images. The Defect detection model classified and located the defects of abnormal PA -UT inspection images. The anomaly detection model was assigned with a large anchor scale, to realize fast recognition, so as to meet the requirement of real-time recognition practical inspection. And defect detection model was designed to achieve high accuracy of defects recognition. By optimizing parameters of learning rate and dataset augmentation, the anomaly detection model and the defect detection reached a good combination of robustness and accuracy. Experiments showed that the proposed recognition model can improve the recognition speed and accuracy compared to single defect detection model.
Effect of Piping System Vibration (FIV, AIV, PIV) on Pipe Support Loads
Authors: Appiah Emmanuel , Wiseman Phillip
Published: October 2020

Integrity of a piping system is a prerequisite for personnel safety and operational reliability in industries where pipelines are critical means of transferring products from one process point to the other, such as power plants, refinery plants, and chemical industries. An essential aspect of designing a reliable piping system is to design supports of suitable load carrying capacity. This also depends on accurate determination of expected support loads including loads due to vibration of the system. Piping design codes such as ASME B31.3 and B31.1 provide a general framework but do not address vibration and its impact from a detailed perspective. In many situations, the potential impact of vibration is overlooked during support load determination. In recent piping system construction, the effect of vibration has increased due to increase in fluid flow rates and use of high strength thin wall materials. Common factors that contribute to vibration include: turbulent flow (flow induced vibration, FIV), relief valve operation (acoustic induced vibration, AIV), rotating and reciprocating equipment (pulsation induced vibrations, PIV). The effect of vibration depends on the strength of excitation and the flexibility of the piping system. As vibration of the piping system increases, loads transfer to the pipe supports also increase. Catastrophic failure of a piping system can occur if its natural frequency lock-in with the frequency of the excitation source. For holistic system integrity, the loads induced due to vibrations need to be accounted for in the support design. In this paper, we investigate the contributions of the various vibration loads in a piping system, the effect of neglecting the various vibration loads on the system integrity, and an empirical method to readily determine the vibration loads to reduce cost and time require in support design processes.
A New Research Method for Corrosion Defect in Metal Pipeline by Using Pulsed Eddy Current
Authors: Zhao Fan , Chen Delu , Pu Zhe , Wang Jielu
Published: October 2020

Pulsed eddy current (PEC) is a new technique to distinguish corrosion defeats inside and outside the metal pipeline. In comparison with other eddy current techniques, the PEC technique has the advantage of being simple and high velocity. In this article, a brand-new PEC probe based on differential conductivity is established through the combination of modules like square wave generator, eddy current coil bridge, differential current, voltage sample circuits and so on. The 50% duty cycle square wave is used as the driving signal. To measure differential conductance, a coil bridge configuration with two legs is adopted. One leg is composed of measurement eddy current coil and the in-series resistor, and the other is reference eddy current coil and the in-series resistor. Because the two legs go through defects in pipeline non-synchronously, there is a differential conductance between the two coils. A trans-impedance amplify circuit is used to detect coil eddy current. At the same time, two amplifiers are used to measure the differential voltage between the two coils. A 14 bit ADC is used to sample differential voltage, measurement and reference eddy currents which transferred to differential current by main processor Complex Programmable Logic Device (CPLD). CPLD is used to get differential conductance by differential current divide differential voltage. At last the eddy current signal sampling sequence is developed. A dynamic testing fixture with artificial defects carved on the pipeline is used to validate PEC probe’s accuracy. The differential conductance signals were displayed on the oscilloscope. Results showed that the inside defect had two peaks, positive peak and negative peak, but the outside defect only had one positive peak. We can conclude that the brand-new PEC probe has high accuracy in distinguishing the inside and outside defects.
Inelastic Analysis of Process Vessel Component Under Creep and Primary Load
Authors: Hoang Tran Quan , Truong Daniel , Truong K. T.
Published: October 2020

In vessel component design by analysis, two failure modes are routinely investigated: Protection against plastic collapse and Protection against local failure. In elevated temperature service, creep rupture stress is the basis for elastic numerical analysis for establishing compliance with protection against the first failure mode. When compliance is not met, Elastic Perfectly Plastic (EPP) being a more accurate tool is proposed to verify the design using a factored rupture-based stress as yield (Sy = 1.25S). It seems that related work about adjusted yield stress has not been presented and validations are still needed using ASME VIII-2, part 5 combined load factor. Regarding local failure, an isochronous stress-strain curve has been used to determine the final stage strain for a total time duration, and compare to limits set by ASME III-NH. Code case 861 is also used to evaluate the minimum total inelastic strain and its conservativeness compared to the isochronous stress-strain curve approach.
CFD Analysis of a Piping-Pressure Safety Valve System Working in Gas/Vapor Service
Authors: Song Xue Guan , Zong Chao Yong , Zheng Feng Jie
Published: October 2020

Configuration of piping-pressure safety valve (PPSV) is widely used but may sometimes show instabilities, which should be avoided or reduced. For exploring the cause of these instabilities, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) provides a powerful tool that can be used not only to reproduce the system-level responses, but also to get the details of the local flows. However, the results of CFD simulations are usually sensitive to their model settings, thus, to ensure accuracy, effects of certain critical model settings (such as time-step size and turbulence model) on transient simulations should be determined. In this paper, a 2-D axisymmetric mesh model is developed first, which can be used to predict the dynamic responds of a PPSV system. With this model, three levels of time-steps are tested. The results indicate that the time-step of 1e−5 is a reasonable choice for transient simulations of the PPSV system. After that, a total of four two-equation turbulence models are used for transient simulations. The results indicate that the SST (Shear stress transport) k-omega model produce the closest results to the experiments. After that, the accuracy of the developed CFD model (with 1e−5s time-step and SST k-omega setting) is verified by experimental tests. The results indicate that the developed CFD model can accurately reproduce the dynamic responds of the PPSV system. Outcomes obtained in this paper can not only provide a reference for the transient CFD model development, but also verify the applicability and high accuracy of 2-D axisymmetric CFD models in PPSV dynamics prediction.
Non-Destructive Evaluation of RPV Embrittlement by Means of the Thermoelectric Power Method
Authors: Niffenegger M. , Mora D. F. , Kottmann H.
Published: October 2020

Nondestructive evaluation (NDE) methods are widely used for inspecting safety relevant components in nuclear reactors. Most of these NDE-methods are optimized and applied for the detection of cracks but there is still no reliable NDE method for measuring the embrittlement of RPV steels. However, since the evaluation of RPV embrittlement of so-called Surveillance specimens with the Charpy test is a destructive approach, NDE methods are highly required. Among the investigated technics are acoustic (Ultrasonic scattering), electric (resistivity, thermoelectric) and magnetic (Barkhausen Noise, Non-Linear Harmonics Analysis, Micromagnetic Multiparameter) methods. However, all the methods under investigation suffer from the fact that fracture toughness of steel depends upon several factors, especially on lattice defects such as vacancies, dissolved atoms, dislocation loops, solute clusters, precipitates and dislocations. A major obstacle to the application of NDE methods for the quantification of material embrittlement is that they may be not only sensitive to these defects but also to other factors, such as magnetic, acoustic and electrical properties, as well as to surface quality and ambient temperature, etc.).

In this paper, we present results gained by the optimization and application of the thermoelectric power method (TEPM) at the Paul Scherrer Institut (PSI) in Switzerland. The TEPM uses the change of the Seebeck coefficient (K) as an indicator for the material embrittlement. A clear almost linear correlation between the shift of the Nil-Ductile-Transition-Temperature (NDTT) and the change of the K was found. Beside the TEPM and its optimization with the finite element method, we describe the influencing parameters and the potential of this promising NDE method.
A Unified Constitutive Model With Optimized Parameters for Base and Diffusion Bonded Alloy 800H
Authors: Mahajan Heramb P. , Hassan Tasnim
Published: October 2020

Current ASME Section III, Division 5 code provides elastic, simplified inelastic and inelastic analysis options for designing nuclear power plant components for elevated temperature service. These analyses methods may fail to capture the complex creep-fatigue response and damage accumulation in materials at elevated temperatures. Hence, for analysis and design of the nuclear power plant components at elevated temperature, a full inelastic analysis that can simulate creep-fatigue responses may be needed. Existing ASME code neither provides guidelines for using full inelastic analysis nor recommends the type of constitutive model to be used. Hence, a unified rate-dependent constitutive model incorporating a damage parameter will be developed, and its parameters for base metal will be determined. In addition, a full inelastic analysis methodology using this model to analyze the creep-fatigue performance of components for nuclear power applications will be developed. Base metal 800H (BM800H) data are collected from literature to determine constitutive material model parameters. The parameter determination methodology for a constitutive model is discussed. The optimized parameter set for BM 800H at different temperatures will be presented in the paper. Recommendations are provided on the constitutive model selection and its parameter determination techniques. In the future, this work will be continued for diffusion bonded Alloy 800H (DB800H) material, and obtained parameters will be compared.
Comparative Stress Analyses of Dropped Spent Nuclear Fuel Assembly in a Prototypal Cask
Authors: Kang Sae-Han-Sol , Kim Dong-Hyun , Chang Yoon-Suk , Lee Sang-Hwan
Published: October 2020

While establishment of appropriate policies and securing key technologies on spent nuclear fuels are state-of-the-arts in the world due to saturation of fuel pools and/or temporary facilities, the details of transportation, storage and repository are different depending on the situation in each country. Thereby, accurate integrity assessment of specific transportation casks and contained fuel assemblies as well as their breakdown effects on the public and environment are becoming more important.

The purpose of this study is to carry out parametric stress analyses of spent nuclear fuel assembly in a prototypal dual purpose cask under development. As the representative postulated accident conditions, four scenarios were selected such as vertical, horizontal, corner and oblique drop from 9 m height on the ground. Then, taking into account computational cost, a simple model that considers only the equivalent mass of the fuel assembly was made for preliminary finite element analyses to determine the most dangerous drop condition and critical location. Subsequently, a detailed model that considers the acceleration of fuel assembly was made based on the preliminary analysis results and finite element analyses were carried out to calculate engineering parameters. Resulting membrane and bending stress intensities were compared with allowable design limits, of which findings will be used as technical background for development of transportation cask and management of the spent nuclear fuel integrity.
Assessment of Section III Appendix XIII-3230 Plastic Analysis
Authors: Reinhardt Wolf
Published: October 2020

Plastic analysis according to Section III Appendix XIII-3230 may be used in lieu of satisfying primary stress limits. The associated definition of plastic collapse load is based on limiting the permanent plastic deformation to not exceed the elastic deformation using a method that is also used to determine the collapse load experimentally. The acceptable load is calculated from the collapse load using a reduction factor that depends on the Service Level. Using some simplified application examples, the strengths and weaknesses of the method are discussed relative to the objectives of primary stress limits. Proposals for modifications of the plastic analysis method in the Code are reviewed and assessed. Elements of a proposal for an updated version of Appendix XIII-3230 are discussed, including providing additional guidance for the computational implementation of the method. The representation of the material stress-strain curve is another important aspect that may require additional guidance.
Efficient and Flexible Finite Element Procedure for Free and Forced Vibration Problems of a Plate Coupled With Fluid
Authors: Ji Ming , Inaba Kazuaki
Published: October 2020

Identifying the coupled system natural frequencies and dynamic behavior of systems in the presence of fluid-structure interaction is one of the most important issues in the engineering design of buildings, road vehicles and aircraft. This paper presents an efficient and flexible finite element procedure using fully vectorized codes for the free and forced vibration analysis of a rectangular plate in contact with fluid. The 4-node MITC plate finite element (MITC4) based on the Mindlin plate theory is used to simulate the plate, while the 8-node acoustic pressure element is used to simulate the fluid. The derived system of equations using structural displacements and fluid pressures yields a non-symmetric system of equations. Solving the generalized eigenvalue problem for the non-symmetric system is more computationally intensive compared to solving the generalized eigenvalue problem for symmetric systems. The modal expansion technique is used to reduce the model size. Then the reduced non-symmetric system is symmetrized by right eigenvectors. The Newmark method is used to solve the forced vibration problem of the coupled systems. The effect of the height of the fluid on the natural frequencies is discussed. The natural frequencies and transient responses are in good agreement with those obtained from the commercial finite element software. Moreover, the technique is proved to be effective to solve the coupled system.
Experimental Investigation on the Friction Coefficients for Different Materials, Lubrication Conditions and Coatings in Bolted Joints
Authors: Croccolo Dario , De Agostinis Massimiliano , Fini Stefano , Olmi Giorgio , Robusto Francesco , Paiardini Luca , Gualdi Gabriele
Published: October 2020

The present paper investigates the influence of several design parameters on the frictional response of a bolted joint, involving screws from strength grades 8.8 to 12.9, with black oxidization coating or zinc coatings. The experimentation deals with different underhead and nut materials (cast iron, aluminum), lubrication conditions (dry, lubricated, two different threadlockers: medium and strong), roughness condition in the underhead (cast, machined, painted, underhead washers) and cosidering also the effect of repeated tightenings. The friction coefficients of the actual application, retrieved based on the relevant operating parameters, are needed to support a correct design. The experimentation has been carried out by a purposely developed specimen, consisting of two parts: an instrumented sleeve, with a double array of strain gauges capable of sampling both the axial preload and the underhead torque, and interchangeable underhead washers. The testing apparatus is provided with a device which allows preventing undesired rotation of the washers. The washer material and surface treatment change among the different specimen sets. The tightening torque is applied by means of a 10-120Nm digital torque wrench. The collected data have been processed by the tools of ANoVa. Such tools allowed assessing the significance of each factor, as well as related interactions.
Cross Weld Tensile Testing With Digital Image Correlation to Determine Local Strain Response
Authors: Siefert William , Rule James , Alexandrov Boian , Buehner Mike , Penso Jorge A.
Published: October 2020

Qualification for weld strength is typically accomplished using cross weld tensile testing. This style of testing only gives the global behavior of the welded joint and limited materials properties, such as elongation at failure and tensile strength of the material where final failure occurs. Qualification for welded structures usually requires the weldment fails in the base metal. Final failure in cross weld tensile tests in the base metal does not provide information about the actual weld metal and heat affected zone properties. There may be weaker points in the microstructure that cannot be identified in a global cross weld tensile test due to being constrained by surrounding microstructures. Additionally, the traditional cross weld tensile test does not quantify how strain accumulates and transfers in the microstructure at various loads. Using Digital Image Correlation (DIC) in combination with tensile testing, local strain of the various microstructures present across the weld was obtained for ferritic to austenitic dissimilar metal welds (DMW), as well as for a typical “matching” ferritic steel filler metal weld with a higher tensile strength than the base metal. This test also showed where and how strain accumulated and transferred during tensile loading of various welded microstructures. Local yield stresses of each region were also obtained. Obtaining such local properties provides insight into design and service limits of welded components in service.
Simulation of Fatigue Crack Growth Using XFEM
Authors: Bartaula Durlabh , Li Yong , Koduru Smitha , Adeeb Samer
Published: October 2020

Pipelines carrying oil and gas are susceptible to fatigue failure (i.e., unstable fatigue crack propagation) due to fluctuating loading such as varying internal pressure and other external loadings. Fatigue crack growth (FCG) prediction through full-scale pipe tests can be expensive and time consuming, and experimental data is limited particularly in the face of large uncertainty involved. In contrast, numerical simulation techniques (e.g., XFEM) can be alternative to study the FCG, given that numerical models can be theoretically and/or experimentally validated with reasonable accuracy. In this study, capabilities and limitations of existing fatigue analysis code (e.g., direct cyclic approach with XFEM) in Abaqus for low cycle fatigue simulation are explored for compact-tension (CT) specimens and pipelines assuming linear elastic material behavior. The simulated FCG curve for a CT specimen is compared with that obtained from the analytical method using the stress intensity factor prescribed in ASTM E647. However, for real pipelines with elastic-plastic behavior, direct cyclic approach is not suitable, and an indirect cyclic approach is used based on the fracture energy parameters (e.g., J integral) calculated using XFEM in Abaqus. FCG law (e.g., power law relationship like Paris law) is used to generate the fatigue crack growth curve. For comparison, the FCG curve obtained through direct cyclic approach for pipelines assuming linear elastic material is also presented. The comparative studies here indicate that XFEM-based FCG simulation using appropriate techniques can be applied to pipelines for fatigue life prediction.
The Effect of Water Absorption on the Mechanical Performance of Gasket Materials
Authors: Wilson Jeffery
Published: October 2020

The selection of gasket materials for bolted flanged connections (BFCs) is largely influenced by temperature, pressure, commodity (chemical), flange geometry, and available bolt load. However, very little focus has been placed on what happens to gasket materials if they are exposed to water or high humidity before or during installation. While not all gasket materials are susceptible to the absorption of water, others are, and their performance could be critically reduced by the slightest amount of absorption. The understanding and ability to quantify the degree to which different gasket materials are affected by pre-assembly water exposure will be another tool used to determine the correct gasket for different services and external conditions, along with addressing the importance of proper gasket handling and storage environments.

This paper will explore the degree to which a wide group of common industrial gasket materials absorb water and how they perform under compressive loads from a mechanical perspective. With the data collected from this testing, users will have a better understanding of which materials are susceptible to the absorption of water and to what extent it affects the mechanical performance of the gasket.
Tempering Response in Type 410 Stainless Steel Welds for Petrochemical Application
Authors: Kusunoki Takuya , Alexandrov Boian , Lawson Benjamin , Penso Jorge , Bundy Joe
Published: October 2020

Type 410 martensitic stainless steel is typically used in highly corrosive environments within petrochemical installations due to its resistance to halide stress corrosion cracking, hardenability, and low cost compared to austenitic stainless steel. However, the industry has experienced difficulties in meeting the ASME toughness, and NACE hardness requirements for wet sour services of Type 410 steel welds. Recent studies have shown that these problems are related to the wide compositional ranges of Type 410 base metals and welding consumables, leading to exceeding the A1 temperature during postweld heat treatment (PWHT) and formation of fresh martensite, and to retention of significant amount of delta ferrite in the final weld metal and heat affected zone microstructures. These studies have identified two Type 410 optimized weld metal compositions that met the specified hardness and toughness requirements.

The objective of this work was to quantify the tempering response in one of the optimized welding consumables and in two Type 410 base metals. Samples of these materials were subjected to a series of PWHTs at temperatures corresponding to the lower and upper limits of the ASME code recommended temperature range (760 C and 800 °C) and at 10 °C below the A1 temperature of each material. The PWHT durations were 5 and 30 minutes, and 1, 2, and 4 hours. The hardness values related to all PWHTs performed below the corresponding A1 temperatures were used to generate Holloman–Jaffe type equations for all tested materials. As expected, the PWHTs performed above the A1 temperatures resulted in the formation of fresh martensite.
Bending Deformation Performance of Underground Pipe for Power Transmission
Authors: Sakai Michiya , Matsuura Shinichi , Yoshimoto Masahiro , Takenaka Satoshi , Saito Jin
Published: October 2020

In order to clarify the ultimate strength of the Pipe type Oil Filled (POF) steel pipe, the four-point bending test of a straight pipe was performed using buried pipes for power transmission, and the ultimate behavior related to bending deformation performance was confirmed. The straight pipe model under the condition of joint and axial force as parameters was tested, and the limit states against ovalization due to buckling of pipe were shown. Based on the experimental results, we performed finite element analysis (FEA) by detailed modeling for the four-point bending test of a straight pipe, confirmed the analysis accuracy, and showed that it was possible to evaluate even local deformation due to buckling. The test results were evaluated by the buckling strength formula of the cylindrical shell, it was confirmed that the maximum buckling strength can be assessed conservatively and rationally.
Exercise Interventions for Community-Dwelling Older Adults Following an Emergency Department Consultation for a Minor Injury
Authors: Fruteau de Laclos Laurence , Sirois Marie-Josée , Blanchette Andréanne , Martel Dominic , Blais Joannie , Émond Marcel , Daoust Raoul , Aubertin-Leheudre Mylène
Published: October 2020

This study compared effects of exercise-based interventions with usual care on functional decline, physical performance, and health-related quality of life (12-item Short-Form health survey) at 3 and 6 months after minor injuries, in older adults discharged from emergency departments. Participants were randomized either to the intervention or control groups. The interventions consisted of 12-week exercise programs available in their communities. Groups were compared on cumulative incidences of functional decline, physical performances, and 12-item Short-Form health survey scores at all time points. Functional decline incidences were: intervention, 4.8% versus control, 15.4% (p = .11) at 3 months, and 5.3% versus 17.0% (p = .06) at 6 months. While the control group remained stable, the intervention group improved in Five Times Sit-To-Stand Test (3.0 ± 4.5 s, p < .01). The 12-item Short-Form health survey role physical score improvement was twice as high following intervention compared with control. Early exercises improved leg strength and reduced self-perceived limitations following a minor injury.
The Kids Are Alright—Right? Physical Activity and Mental Health in College Students
Authors: Petruzzello Steven J. , Box Allyson G.
Published: October 2020

The status of physical activity in higher education has changed dramatically over the past 100 years. In this paper, we aim to (a) provide a brief history of physical activity on campus; (b) describe how that activity has changed from a requirement to an elective; (c) illustrate how mental health (particularly stress, anxiety, and depression) has changed in college students over the past few decades; and (d) describe the relationships between physical activity and mental health, particularly in college students. The paper culminates with recommendations for how colleges and universities might facilitate better student mental health through physical activity. There is room to improve the physical activity and mental health of college students, realigning higher education with the promotion of mens sana in corpore sano.
A twisted visual field map in the primate dorsomedial cortex predicted by topographic continuity
Authors: Yu Hsin-Hao , Rowley Declan P. , Price Nicholas S. C. , Rosa Marcello G. P. , Zavitz Elizabeth
Published: October 2020

Twisted visual maps emerge from a model that balances topographical continuity within and between areas.
Induced, but not natural, regulatory T cells retain phenotype and function following exposure to inflamed synovial fibroblasts
Authors: Yang Sujuan , Zhang Ximei , Chen Jingrong , Dang Junlong , Liang Rongzhen , Zeng Donglan , Zhang Huan , Xue Youqiu , Liu Yan , Wu Wenbin , Zhao Jun , Wang Julie , Pan Yunfeng , Xu Hanshi , Sun Bing , Huang Feng , Lu Yan , Hsueh Willa , Olsen Nancy , Zheng Song Guo
Published: October 2020

Induced regulatory T cells are phenotypic and functionally stable when encountering inflamed synovial fibroblast.
Scalable microresonators for room-temperature detection of electron spin resonance from dilute, sub-nanoliter volume solids
Authors: Abhyankar Nandita , Agrawal Amit , Shrestha Pragya , Maier Russell , McMichael Robert D. , Campbell Jason , Szalai Veronika
Published: October 2020

Toroidal metamaterials make tiny, better-ringing bells for microwaves.
Partially exposed RuP
2
surface in hybrid structure endows its bifunctionality for hydrazine oxidation and hydrogen evolution catalysis
Authors: Li Yapeng , Zhang Jihua , Liu Yi , Qian Qizhu , Li Ziyun , Zhu Yin , Zhang Genqiang
Published: October 2020

Partially exposed RuP
2
on carbon endows outstanding activity to hydrazine oxidation and hydrogen evolution catalysis.
The inositol pyrophosphate 5-InsP
7
drives sodium-potassium pump degradation by relieving an autoinhibitory domain of PI3K p85α
Authors: Chin Alfred C. , Gao Zhe , Riley Andrew M. , Furkert David , Wittwer Christopher , Dutta Amit , Rojas Tomas , Semenza Evan R. , Felder Robin A. , Pluznick Jennifer L. , Jessen Henning J. , Fiedler Dorothea , Potter Barry V. L. , Snyder Solomon H. , Fu Chenglai
Published: October 2020

5-InsP
7
is an endogenous negative regulator of Na
+
/K
+
-ATPase.
Human and mouse bones physiologically integrate in a humanized mouse model while maintaining species-specific ultrastructure
Authors: Moreno-Jiménez I. , Cipitria A. , Sánchez-Herrero A. , van Tol A. F. , Roschger A. , Lahr C. A. , McGovern J. A. , Hutmacher D. W. , Fratzl P.
Published: October 2020

Progress has been achieved in the art of accurately mimicking human tissues and disease in a mouse.
Ethylene signaling mediates host invasion by parasitic plants
Authors: Cui Songkui , Kubota Tomoya , Nishiyama Tomoaki , Ishida Juliane K. , Shigenobu Shuji , Shibata Tomoko F. , Toyoda Atsushi , Hasebe Mitsuyasu , Shirasu Ken , Yoshida Satoko
Published: October 2020

Forward genetic analysis in a parasitic plant revealed that ethylene signaling is essential for host invasion.
Early stage
EGFR
-mutated lung cancer gets a targeted treatment
Authors: Ileana-Dumbrava Ecaterina
Published: October 2020

Osimertinib improves disease-free survival for patients with early stage
EGFR
-mutated non-small cell lung cancer after complete tumor resection.
Imipenem/Cilastatin/Relebactam Alone and in Combination againstPseudomonas aeruginosain theIn VitroPharmacodynamic Model
Authors: Chen Iris H. , Nicolau David P. , Kuti Joseph L.
Published: October 2020

Combination therapy may enhance imipenem/cilastatin/relebactam’s (I/R) activity againstPseudomonas aeruginosaand suppress resistance development. Human-simulated unbound plasma concentrations of I/R at 1.25 g every 6 h (h), colistin at 360 mg daily, and amikacin at 25 mg/kg daily were reproduced alone and in combination against six imipenem-nonsusceptibleP. aeruginosaisolates in anin vitropharmacodynamic model over 24 h.
Higher circulating orosomucoid, an acute-phase protein, and reduced glucose-induced insulin secretion in middle-aged Japanese people with prediabetes
Authors: Tsuboi Ayaka , Kitaoka Kaori , Yano Megumu , Takeuchi Mika , Minato-Inokawa Satomi , Honda Mari , Kurata Miki , Wu Bin , Kazumi Tsutomu , Fukuo Keisuke
Published: October 2020

Introduction

Circulating orosomucoid, an acute-phase protein, predicted type 2 diabetes mellitus risk in several Western countries. Here, we assessed serum orosomucoid (ORM) in relation to prediabetes in the Japanese.

Research design and methods

Participants consisted of 83 middle-aged Japanese subjects with normal glucose tolerance (NGT), 37 with prediabetes and 4 with newly identified diabetes, whose homeostasis model assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) averaged 1.1±0.7, 1.4±0.9 and 1.7±0.8, respectively. Body composition, serum inflammatory markers, adiponectin, β-cell function and insulin resistance inferred from serum insulin kinetics during an oral glucose tolerance test were compared cross-sectionally between those with prediabetes and NGT.

Results

Serum orosomucoid, but not high-sensitivity C reactive protein, was elevated in prediabetes (190±29 vs 141±31 mg/dL) with further elevation in diabetes (295±52 mg/dL) (all p<0.001). Prediabetes was associated with lower Oral Disposition Index (the product of the Insulinogenic Index and Matsuda Index) with further depression in diabetes. No association was found with skeletal muscle mass, HOMA-IR, serum triglyceride, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol and adiponectin.

Conclusions

Higher circulating ORM and reduced glucose induced insulin secretion were found in middle-aged Japanese people with prediabetes in the absence of insulin resistance.
Comparison of the effects of lockdown due to COVID-19 on glucose patterns among children, adolescents, and adults with type 1 diabetes: CGM study
Authors: Di Dalmazi Guido , Maltoni Giulio , Bongiorno Claudio , Tucci Lorenzo , Di Natale Valeria , Moscatiello Simona , Laffi Gilberto , Pession Andrea , Zucchini Stefano , Pagotto Uberto
Published: October 2020

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic forced the Italian government to issue extremely restrictive measures on daily activities since 11 March 2020 (‘lockdown’), which may have influenced the metabolic control of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1D). The aims of the study were to investigate continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) metrics in children and adults with T1D during lockdown and to identify their potentially related factors.

Research design and methods

We enrolled 130 consecutive patients with T1D (30 children (≤12 years), 24 teenagers (13–17 years), and 76 adults (≥18 years)) using either Dexcom or FreeStyle LibreCGM>70% during the study period, without hybrid closed-loop insulin pump. CGM metrics during the 20 days before and the 20 days after lockdown were calculated. By telephonic contact, we performed validated physical activity and perceived stress questionnaires.

Results

In children, significantly lower glucose SD (SDglu) (p=0.029) and time below range (TBR)<54 mg/dL (TBR2) (p=0.029) were detected after lockdown. CGM metrics were comparable in teenagers before and during lockdown. After lockdown, adults improved significantly time in range (TIR) 70–180 mg/dL (p<0.001) and remaining metrics, except percent coefficient of variation and TBR2. In adults, considering the changes in SDglu and TIR occurred before and during lockdown, we identified a group with improved TIR and SDglu who performed more physical activity, one with improved glucose variability who was younger than the other patients, and one with worsened glucose variability who showed higher perceived stress than others.

Conclusion

In patients with T1D during lockdown, CGM metrics mostly improved in children and adults, whereas it was unchanged in teenagers. In adults, age, physical activity, and perceived stress may be relevant contributing factors.
Changes in insulin sensitivity and insulin secretion during pregnancy and post partum in women with gestational diabetes
Authors: Skajaa Gitte Oeskov , Fuglsang Jens , Knorr Sine , Møller Niels , Ovesen Per , Kampmann Ulla
Published: October 2020

Introduction

The metabolic abnormalities underlying gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) include increased insulin resistance and beta cell defects, but it is essential to clarify how insulin resistance and insulin secretion develop post partum in order to decide when and how to screen for type 2 diabetes. The purpose of the present study was to characterize and compare changes in insulin sensitivity, insulin secretion and hormonal status around parturition and 6 months post partum in women with gestational diabetes.

Research design and methods

A longitudinal experimental study was performed at Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark. Eight women with GDM were examined at three identical visits: in late pregnancy (LP) between gestational age 34+0 and 36+6, early post partum (EPP) between 12 and 34 days post partum, and late post partum (LPP) 6 months post partum. An intravenous glucose tolerance test was performed, followed by a hyperinsulinemic euglycemic clamp. Blood samples were collected to assess metabolic, hormonal and inflammatory markers at each visit.

Results

First and second phase insulin secretion and C-peptide concentrations were higher in late pregnancy than post partum (p<0.001). Insulin sensitivity index (ISI) was different at all three visits: ISILP=0.03±0.004, ISIEPP=0.09±0.008 and ISILPP=0.07±0.008) (p<0.001). Also, significant changes in lipids, leptin, glucagon, growth hormone and insulin-like growth factor-1 were seen when comparing the visits.

Conclusions

Insulin sensitivity improves immediately after delivery in women with GDM but seems to deteriorate within the first 6 months post partum. Our findings underline the importance of having an increased awareness of the profound risk of developing type 2 diabetes after GDM.

Trial registration number

NCT02770079.
Association between vitamin intake and respiratory complaints in adults from the UK National Diet and Nutrition Survey years 1–8
Authors: Almoosawi Suzana , Palla Luigi
Published: October 2020

Objective

To examine the cross-sectional association between vitamins A, E, C and D from diet and supplements and the prevalence of respiratory complaints in a nationally representative sample of UK adults.

Methods

Data from adult participants of the National Diet and Nutrition Survey Rolling Programme years 2008–2016 were used for the analysis. Logistic regression adapted for complex survey design was used to investigate the relationship between each vitamin intake in turn (exposure) and self-reported respiratory complaints (outcome), adjusting for relevant confounders.

Results

Overall, respiratory complaints were found in 33 of the 6115 adult patients aged 19 years and above. After adjustment for potential confounders, a negative association was observed between the intake of vitamin A and E intake from diet and supplements and respiratory complaints. For vitamin D, intake from supplements, but not diet, was inversely significantly associated with respiratory complaints. No association between vitamin C and respiratory complaints was observed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, intake of vitamin A and E from diet and supplements, and vitamin D from supplements, show strong evidence of association with lower self-reported prevalence of respiratory complaints in a nationally representative sample of UK adults.
Effects of trunk extensor eccentric exercise on lipid profile and glycaemic response
Authors: Lee Ho-Seong , Akimoto Takayuki , Kim Ah-Ram
Published: October 2020

Objectives

A number of previous studies reported physiological responses and adaptations after eccentric muscle contraction of limb muscles. In contrast, no study has determined physiological response after eccentric contraction of trunk muscles. The purpose of the present study was to compare the functional and metabolic changes after eccentric or concentric exercises of trunk extensor muscles.

Methods

In this randomised, crossover study, 10 men performed a single bout of 50 maximal voluntary concentric and eccentric contractions of the trunk extensor with an interval of 2 weeks between bouts. The activities of the paraspinal muscles were recorded during concentric and eccentric contractions. Muscle soreness, muscle function, blood lipid profiles and glycaemic responses were measured before, immediately after and at 24, 48, 72 and 96 hours after each bout.

Results

The lumbar multifidus and iliocostalis lumborum activities during eccentric contractions were significantly higher than those during concentric contractions (p<0.05). The maximal strength and muscle endurance of the trunk extensor were not decreased even after the eccentric contractions. Compared with concentric contractions, muscle soreness was significantly increased at 24, 48, 72 and 96 hours after eccentric contractions (p<0.05). The TG, TC and LDL-C were significantly lower at 48, 72 and 96 hours after eccentric contractions (p<0.05), while blood glucose levels and HOMA-IR were significantly greater at 48 and 72 hours after eccentric contractions (p<0.05).

Conclusion

This study indicated that eccentric contractions of the trunk extensor had positive effects on the lipid profile and the glycaemic response.
A prospective randomised simulation trial comparing our novel AIR-BOX to standard airway equipment storage modalities
Authors: Piechowski Wojciech , Clapper Timothy C , Park Joel C , Ching Kevin , St. George Jonathan
Published: October 2020

Background

There is little evidence guiding equipment handling during emergency endotracheal intubations (EEI). Available evidence and current practice are either outdated, anecdotal or focused on difficult—not emergency—intubation. In this study, we describe and evaluate our equipment handling unit: the AIR-BOX.

Methods

This is a proof-of-concept, prospective, randomised simulation trial. A convenience sample of 50 airway course participants voluntarily underwent randomisation: 21 to the AIR-BOX group, 14 to the intubation box group, and 15 to the crash cart group. The volunteers were asked to intubate a manikin using the equipment from the storage unit of their randomisation. Outcome measures included time-to-readiness, time-to-intubation, first-pass success, and subjective operator experience.

Results

The mean time-to-readiness was 67.2 s with the AIR-BOX, 84.6 s with the intubation box, and 115 s with the crash cart. The mean time-to-intubation was 105 s with the AIR-BOX, 127 s with the intubation box and 167 s with the crash cart. A statistically significant difference was achieved between the AIR-BOX and the crash cart. No statistically significant difference was found between the three groups with regard to first-pass success or the time between intubation readiness and intubation.

Conclusions

This study supports the AIR-BOX as a viable tool that can improve and simplify access to emergency intubating equipment. It also opens doors for multiple future innovations that can positively impact equipment handling practices. Future studies can focus on assessing whether applying the AIR-BOX will yield a clinically significant impact on patient outcomes.
Role of amiodarone in the management of atrial arrhythmias in adult Fontan patients
Authors: Kawada Satoshi , Chakraborty Praloy , Roche Lucy , Oechslin Erwin N , Silversides Candice , Wald Rachel M , Downar Eugene , Harris Louise , Swan Lorna , Alonso-Gonzalez Rafael , Thorne Sara , Yamamura Kenichiro , Nanthakumar Kumaraswamy , Mondésert Blandine , Khairy Paul , Nair Krishnakumar
Published: October 2020

Background

Patients with Fontan circulation are known to be at high risk for developing atrial tachyarrhythmias (AAs). Our objective was to examine the efficacy and safety of amiodarone in the management of ATs in adult Fontan patients.

Methods

Primary outcomes of this single-centre, retrospective study included freedom from AAs and incidence of adverse effects of amiodarone on Fontan patients. Heart failure (HF) events and composite outcomes of death from any cause, Fontan revision and heart transplantation were evaluated as secondary outcomes. Predictors of HF and discontinuing amiodarone were also evaluated.

Results

A total of 61 patients (mean age 31.6±11.3 years, 40.9% female), who were treated with amiodarone in between 1995 and 2018, were included. AAs free survival at 1, 3 and 5 years were 76.2%, 56.9% and 30.6%, respectively. During a median follow-up of 50.5 months, 34 (55.7%) patients developed side effects, and 20 (32.8%) patients discontinued amiodarone due to side effects. Thyroid dysfunction was the most common side effect (n=26, 76.5%), amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis (AIT) (n=16, 27.1%) being most common thyroid dysfunction. Young age (age <28.5 years) was associated with discontinuing amiodarone (HR 5.50, 95% CI 1.19 to 25.4, p=0.029). AIT significantly increased risk of HF (HR 4.82, 95% CI 1.71 to 13.6, p=0.003).

Conclusions

Short-term efficacy of amiodarone in Fontan physiology is acceptable. However, long-term administration is associated with a reduction of efficacy and a significant prevalence of non-cardiac side effects. AIT is associated with exacerbation of HF. The judicious use of amiodarone administration should be considered in this population.
Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome: Definition, Pathophysiology, Clinical Spectrum, Insights into Acute and Long-Term Management
Authors: Gajendran Mahesh , Sifuentes Joshua , Bashashati Mohammad , McCallum Richard
Published: October 2020

Although cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) was first reported more than 15 years ago, it still remains an unfamiliar clinical entity among physicians worldwide. CHS is categorized by Rome IV classification as a functional gastroduodenal disorder. It is characterized by stereotypical episodic vomiting in the setting of chronic, daily cannabis use, with cycles decreasing by the cessation of cannabis. CHS is also associated with abdominal pain reduced by hot baths and showers with comparative well-being between attacks. Thus, its clinical presentation resembles ‘classic’ cyclic vomiting syndrome, but eliciting a cannabis history is crucial in diagnosing this entity. In acute attacks, parenteral benzodiazepines are very effective. For prevention and long-term management, tricyclic antidepressants such as amitriptyline are the mainstay of therapy requiring doses in the range of 50–200 mg/d to achieve symptom control. In addition, counseling to achieve marijuana cessation, accompanied by antianxiety medications, is necessary for sustaining clinical outcomes. Once the patient is in remission and off marijuana for a period of 6–12 months, then tapering the dose of amitriptyline can be implemented, with the goal of no therapy being achieved in the majority of patients over time. With the legalization of marijuana in many states, CHS will become an increasingly prevalent clinical entity, so educating about CHS is an important goal, particularly for emergency department physicians who generally first encounter these patients.