bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cool enough? Lessons learned from cryoballoon‐guided catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation in young adults
Authors: Bergau Leonard , El Hamriti Mustapha , Rubarth Kerstin , Dagher Lilas , Molatta Stephan , Braun Martin , Khalaph Moneeb , Imnadze Guram , Nölker Georg , Nowak Claus P. , Fox Henrik , Sommer Philipp , Sohns Christian
Published: August 2020

Introduction

Cryoballoon (CB)‐guided ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF) is established in symptomatic AF patients. This study sought to determine the safety and efficacy of CB pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) in young adults.

Methods and Results

A total of 93 consecutive patients aged <45 years referred to our center for AF ablation were included in this observational study. All patients received CB‐guided PVI according to a standardized institutional protocol. Follow‐up was performed in our outpatient clinic using 72‐h Holter monitoring and periodic telephone interview. Recurrence was defined as any AF/atrial tachycardia (AT) episode >30 s following a 3‐month blanking period. A propensity matched control group consisting of patients older than 45 years were used for further evaluation. Mean age was 35 ± 7 years, 22% suffered from persistent AF, 85% were male. Mean follow‐up was 2.6 ± 2 years. At the end of the observational period, 83% of patients were free of any AF/AT episodes. There was an excellent overall 12‐month success rate of 92%. In comparison to a matched group the overall recurrence rate was noticeably lower in the young group (15% vs. 27%). Increasing age was associated with a hazard ratio of 1.16 for recurrence. In a multivariate analysis model, left atrial diameter remained as significant predictor of AF/AT recurrence. The complication rate was low, no permanent phrenic nerve palsy was observed.

Conclusion

CB‐guided PVI in young adults is safe and effective with favorable long‐term results. It may be considered as first‐line therapy in this relatively healthy population.
Differentially expressed lnc‐NOS2P3‐miR‐939‐5p axis in chronic heart failure inhibits myocardial and endothelial cells apoptosis via iNOS/TNFα pathway
Authors: Chen Cuncun , Zong Ming , Lu Ying , Guo Yide , Lv Honggen , Xie Lihong , Fu Zhiyan , Cheng Yu , Si Yuying , Ye Bei , Fan Lieying
Published: August 2020

Inflammatory cytokine‐induced cell apoptosis is important for initiation and progression of chronic heart failure (CHF). Non‐coding RNAs, including long non‐coding RNAs and microRNAs, have emerged as critical regulators of this pathological process. The role in regulating inflammation and induction to cell apoptosis in CHF is not well understood. This study found CHF patients had elevated serum miR‐939‐5p, with greater increase in New York Heart Association (NYHA) I‐II patients than in NYHA III‐IV. Moreover, miR‐939‐5p was positively correlated with B‐type natriuretic peptide (BNP) in NYHA III‐IV patients, while not in NYHA I‐II. Further study showed miR‐939‐5p mimics promoted cell proliferation and inhibited inflammatory cytokine‐induced apoptosis of HUVECs and H9C2, while inhibition of endogenous miR‐939‐5p produced the opposite effects. Induced nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and tumour necrosis factor α (TNFα) were identified as target genes of miR‐939‐5p. Additionally, lncRNA‐NOS2P3 acted as an endogenous sponge RNA to inhibit miR‐939‐5p expression, regulate the expression of iNOS/TNFα and control inflammation‐induced cells apoptosis. These suggest that CHF patients exhibited elevated serum miR‐939‐5p level especially in NYHA I‐II grades. And lnc‐NOS2P3‐miR‐939‐5p‐iNOS/TNFα pathway regulated inflammatory cytokine‐induced endothelial and myocardial cells apoptosis and provided a promising strategy for diagnosis and treatment of CHF.
Diagnostic ability of salivary matrix metalloproteinase‐9 lateral flow test point‐of‐care test for periodontitis
Authors: Kim Hyun‐Duck , Lee Chang‐Soo , Cho Hyun‐Jae , Jeon Sumin , Choi Young‐Nim , Kim SungTae , Kim DanHee , Jin Lee Hyun , Vu Huong , Jeong Hee‐Jin , Kim ByungGee
Published: August 2020

Aim

This cross‐sectional study aimed to examine the diagnostic ability of salivary matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐9 lateral flow test (LFT) point‐of‐care (POC) kit and develop an algorithm for diagnosis of periodontitis.

Materials and Methods

Through Seoul National Dental Hospital, 137 participants (46 LFT negatives, 91 LFT positives) were recruited. For salivary diagnostics, 150 μl of the unstimulated saliva was applied to LFT‐POC kit. To make a diagnosis of periodontitis, stage II‐IV in modified new international classification system was used. Covariates encompassing age, sex, smoking and obesity were evaluated through face‐to‐face interview. Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay was used for quantification of salivary MMP‐9. To develop a diagnostic algorithm, multivariable logistic regression analysis was used. Receiver operating characteristic curve was applied for evaluating diagnostic ability.

Results

Diagnostic ability of salivary MMP‐9 LFT‐POC test was 0.82 (sensitivity of 0.92, specificity of 0.72) in total participants. Diagnostic algorithm using POC test resulted in a response equation, that is algorithm score = −3.675 + 2.877*LFT + 0.034*age + 0.121*sex + 0.372*smoking + 0.192*obesity. Diagnostic ability of the algorithm was 0.88 (sensitivity of 0.92, specificity of 0.85) with cut‐off score of 0.589.

Conclusions

Salivary MMP‐9 LFT‐POC kit showed appropriate diagnostic ability for periodontitis and would be an efficient tool for screening of periodontitis.
Evidence‐based medicine's curious path: From clinical epidemiology to patient‐centered care through decision analysis
Authors: Falzer Paul R.
Published: August 2020

Evidence‐based medicine (EBM), one of the most important movements in health care, has been a lightning rod for controversy. Conflicts about the meaning and value of EBM are owing in part to lack of clarity about basic questions regarding its development, the importance of expertise and intuition, and the role of evidence in clinical decision making. These issues have persisted in part because of unclarity at the outset, but also because of how EBM evolved, why it was introduced when it was, and how it was modified following its introduction. This paper traces the evolution of EBM from clinical epidemiology (CE) and the internal dispute that precipitated the developers to establish EBM as a distinct approach to clinical practice. The paper proposes that health care industrialization also had a significant role in EBM's emergence and that industrialization influenced the decision to merge EBM with the method of normative decision making known as decision analysis (DA). The paper discusses the impact of this merger, in particular how it led to EBM's identification with managed care and has added momentum to the effort at forging a connection between a normative decision model and clinical judgement. This effort would turn clinical decision making into a conduit for bringing administrative rules and regulations into the consulting room and would result in expertise becoming a surplus skill. The paper closes by discussing a challenge yet unmet by EBM's advocates and critics—to chronicle the dangers that EBM in the framework of DA during the current era of industrialization poses to health and health care, and discover ways of unhinging the relationship between model and judgement.
Dissemination of Prenatal Drinking Guidelines: A Preliminary Study Examining Personal Alcohol Use Among Midwives in a Southwestern US State
Authors: Olusanya Olufunto A. , Barry Adam E.
Published: August 2020

Introduction

The constellation of birth defects seen in fetuses exposed to alcohol in utero have been described as fetal alcohol spectrum disorders. Evidence suggests that health care providers’ communication practices regarding prenatal alcohol use could have beneficial outcomes. There is a paucity of investigations, however, that have examined the health professionals’ personal alcohol use and prenatal alcohol recommendations they provide.

Methods

This study sought to examine and compare midwives’ personal alcohol use and communication practices regarding prenatal alcohol consumption. Certified nurse‐midwives (CNMs) and certified professional midwives (CPMs) in a southwestern US state participated. Inclusion criteria included training in prenatal care, labor, birth, and membership in a midwife professional organization. Personal drinking behaviors were assessed with Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test—Consumption (AUDIT‐C).

Results

All midwives (N = 61; 100%) reported they typically screened a patient for alcohol use during an initial prenatal visit. However, 5 (8.2%) respondents opted for recommendations that advised patients to drink once in a while. Similarly, 4 (6.6%) midwives counseled no more than one drink per day. In the cohort of participants (n = 40) with AUDIT‐C scores, 25 (62.5%) engaged in nonrisky drinking (AUDIT‐C scores <3). Most respondents (n = 39 of 40; 97.5%) typically consumed 1 to 2 standard drinks on the day they drank. There was no statistically significant difference in mean overall AUDIT‐C scores between CNMs and CPMs (P = .42). When examining midwives’ (1) responses on the AUDIT‐C questionnaire, (2) nonrisky or risky drinking behaviors, and 3) communication practices regarding prenatal alcohol use, Fisher's exact test showed no statistically significant differences between CNMs and CPMs.

Discussion

Results of this study highlight the importance of advocating healthy lifestyles among health care professionals while also promoting communication practices that align with national alcohol guidelines. Future investigations that examine associations between health care professionals’ personal alcohol use and type or effectiveness of services offered to patients may be beneficial.
Why healthcare market needs government intervention to improve access to essential medicines and healthcare efficiency: a scoping review from pharmaceutical price regulation perspective
Authors: Mensa Sorato Mende , Davari Majid , Abdollahi Asl Akbar , Soleymani Fatemeh , Kebriaeezadeh Abbas
Published: August 2020

Background

Access to quality essential medicines at affordable price to patients in the healthcare market is one of the main goals of universal health coverage and health-related sustainable development goals. Healthcare market is imperfect, and the government cannot ensure access to essential medicines if the market is left to operate under invisible hand control. This scoping review was conducted with intention to provide the clear picture on impact of pharmaceutical price regulation on access to essential medicines, drug innovation and launching.

Methods

We searched articles written in the English language since January 2000 from PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Ovid/Medline and Google scholar with systematic search query.

Results

Access to essential medicines, which is defined in terms of availability, affordability, accessibility, acceptability and quality of drugs, can be improved by pharmaceutical price regulation. Countries can use different price regulation strategies based on their healthcare objectives and priority healthcare needs. Country-specific pharmaceutical price regulation could not significantly affect drug innovation and launching. However, supportive strategies such as open public funding for drug innovation research, providing innovation awards and strong patent rights can counterbalance the effect of price regulation on innovation and drug development research in developed countries.

Conclusion

Regulating pharmaceutical pricing system is one of the key strategies to ensure access to essential medicines. Countries that have implemented pharmaceutical price regulation system (Germany, the UK, Canada and Iran) have achieved better access to essential medicines. However, the US and Ethiopian health systems that are unregulated concerning pharmaceutical pricing had a great challenge of affordability of essential medicines. Therefore, setting country-specific pharmaceutical price regulation system along with additional strategies to improve drug innovation is critical to ensure access to essential medicines.
Addiction science and the perception of freewill
Authors: Monterosso John R. , Schwartz Barry
Published: August 2020

Do people think individuals with Substance Use Disorder (SUD) have freewill? How does addiction science inform views on the issue? We distinguish between two senses of freewill: 1) libertarian freewill, in which freedom turns on a particular metaphysical conception of action (sometimes operationalized as “could have done otherwise”), and 2) compatibilist freewill, in which freedom depends on the relation between the actor's psychology and her actions (e.g., “was the act what she wanted to do?”). We argue that, in different ways, scientific accounts can impact conceived freewill by linking addictive behavior to mechanisms that observers view as peripheral to the actor (motivation modularity). While a variety of impacts on conceived compatibilist freewill are plausible, we argue that contemporary addiction science has no direct bearing on conceived libertarian freewill. Addiction science may, however, indirectly impact conceived libertarian freewill by priming an explanatory framework in which intention is superfluous (especially materialism).
Anxiety and depression among patients admitted to intensive care
Authors: Shdaifat Sajeda Aref , Al Qadire Mohammad
Published: August 2020

Background

Critically ill patients in intensive care units frequently experience high levels of anxiety and depression. These symptoms affect the patient's treatment plan and response to treatment.

Aims and objectives

To identify the prevalence of anxiety and depression among patients admitted to intensive care units in Jordan and their correlation with quality of life.

Design

A descriptive cross‐sectional survey design was used.

Methods

The sample for this study consisted of 108 patients admitted to intensive care units in seven governmental hospitals in Jordan. Three instruments were used to collect the data: the demographic data sheet, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and the World Health Organization Quality of Life tool.

Results

More than half of the participants were female (56.5%), and the mean age was 44.6 years (SD 18.2); 84.3% had anxiety with a mean total score of 12.1 (SD 4.3), and 79.6% of the patients had depression with a mean total score of 11.5 (SD 4.5). A significant negative correlation was found between the mean total anxiety score (r = −0.541, P < .001), depression (r = −0.616, P < .001), and the mean total quality of life score.

Conclusions

Management programmes for anxiety and depression are highly recommended for intensive care units patients. Such programmes should focus on teaching health care providers correct assessment and management techniques. In addition, developing and implementing a psychiatric consultation support system for these patients might contribute to better management of anxiety and depression.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

This study reveals high prevalence of anxiety and depression among critically ill patient in ICUs. So, regular assessment of anxiety and depression should be conducted by healthcare provider. This requires using a valid and reliable assessment tool. Early correct assessment would result in optimal management for anxiety and depression through patient referral to psychiatric care and the use of pharmacological and non‐pharmacological interventions.

Guidelines to assess and manage anxiety and depression should be adapted and implemented into clinical practice within the intensive care units.

Regular psychiatric consultation for patients admitted to ICU might be helpful in detecting and managing anxiety and depression symptoms.
Global differences in atopic dermatitis
Authors: Suaini Noor H. A. , Tan Cheryl P. T. , Loo Evelyn X. L. , Tham Elizabeth Huiwen
Published: August 2020

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder, with a highly variable prevalence worldwide. Recent evidence, however, has shown an increase in prevalence in the Asia Pacific region. Nevertheless, most of the published literature has focused mainly on Western populations, and only few clinical trials have included subgroups of other ethnic populations. Reasons for the observed ethnic and geographical differences in AD are not well established. This calls into question the need for a better understanding of AD pathogenesis and inter‐ethnic differences in clinical and immuno‐phenotypes. These differences may reflect inherent variability in disease mechanisms between populations, which in turn may impact upon treatment responses such as biologics that are currently tailored mainly to a specific immuno‐phenotype (T‐helper type 2 dominant). In this article, we reviewed existing literature on the prevalence of AD globally, highlighting differences, if any, in the clinical and immuno‐phenotypes of AD between different ethnicities. We discussed genetic and environmental factors that affect AD in different populations and therapeutic considerations. Our review highlights AD as a disease with ethnic‐dependent clinical and immunological heterogeneity and calls for greater inclusion of ethnic diversity in future research in order to develop targeted treatments.
Steroid‐refractory acute graft‐versus‐host disease graded III‐IV in pediatric patients. A mono‐institutional experience with a long‐term follow‐up
Authors: Berger Massimo , Pessolano Rosanna , Carraro Francesca , Saglio Francesco , Vassallo Elena , Fagioli Franca
Published: August 2020

aGvHD remains a major obstacle to successful HSCT. We report our experience on steroid‐refractory aGvHD III and IV from 1989 to 2017. Ninety patients with aGvHD III or IV were stratified according to the HSCT year: 1989‐1998, 1999‐2007, and 2008‐2017 and to aGvHD extension (GvHD III vs IV) and finally the probability of OS, RI, and TRM was calculated accordingly. aGvHD III patients had a substantial improvement over time: day 100 OS raised from 64% (95% CI 39‐89) in the first cohort to 100% in the latest (P = .022), and it was mainly due to a reduction of TRM (it was 28% [95% CI 12‐65] in the first cohort to 0% in the latest (P = .01). The aGvHD IV patients did not present a significant improvement. Day 100 OS was 42% (95% CI 16‐68) in the first group and 54% (95% CI 25‐83) in the year 2008‐2017 (P = NS), and the day‐100 TRM was very similar (it was 57% [95% CI 36‐90] in the first cohort and 45% [95% CI 23‐89] in the latest (P = NS). We report significant improvements in OS and TRM in patients diagnosed with grade III aGvHD. Patients with the most severe aGvHD appear to have no or fewer benefits on long‐term outcomes.
Bartonella henselae infection in the pediatric solid organ transplant recipient
Authors: Lopez Santiago Manuel Cayetano , Davis Amy , Zinn Matthew , Feingold Brian , Green Michael , Michaels Marian G.
Published: August 2020

Bartonella henselae infection can cause a wide spectrum of diseases in both the immunocompetent and immunocompromised host with BA a severe form relegated to immunocompromised hosts, including solid organ transplant population. There are established criteria for diagnosis of Bartonella infection based on clinical presentation, serologic testing, imaging studies and, when indicated, tissue sampling for histopathological evaluation, particularly for BA. However, treatment recommendations for BA are inconclusive. Furthermore, there are no studies in the pediatric solid organ transplant population for antimicrobial therapy during BA secondary to Bartonella henselae infection. A case of BA following heart transplant is presented along with a literature review of clinical presentation; diagnosis and therapy for BA in the pediatric solid organ transplant population.
Contemporary practices for mechanical oral hygiene to prevent periodontal disease
Authors: Sälzer Sonja , Graetz Christian , Dörfer Christof E. , Slot Dagmar E. , Van der Weijden Fridus A.
Published: August 2020

It is well established that dental plaque on teeth leads to gingivitis and periodontitis, and that several mechanical and chemical methods of plaque control can prevent gingivitis. The aim of the current review is to summarize and synthesize the available scientific evidence supporting practices for mechanical oral hygiene to prevent periodontal diseases. Evidence for contemporary practices of mechanical oral hygiene to prevent periodontal disease relies on studies of gingivitis patients. General recommendations concerning the ideal oral hygiene devices and procedures are still inconclusive. However, toothbrushing and interdental cleaning remain the mainstays of prevention of periodontal diseases. The primary approach requires individually tailored instruction for implementation of a systematic oral hygiene regimen.
Interventions to prevent periodontal disease in tobacco‐, alcohol‐, and drug‐dependent individuals
Authors: Kumar Purnima S.
Published: August 2020

Substance abuse affects more than one sixth of the world's population. More importantly, the nature of the abuse and the type of addictive substances available to individuals is increasing exponentially. All substances with abusive potential impact both the human immuno‐inflammatory system and oral microbial communities, and therefore play a critical role in the etiopathogenesis of periodontal diseases. Evidence strongly supports the efficacy of professionally delivered cessation counseling. Dentists, dental therapists, and hygienists are ideally placed to deliver this therapy, and to spearhead efforts to provide behavioral and pharmacologic support for cessation. The purpose of this review is to examine the biologic mechanisms underlying their role in disease causation, to understand the pharmacologic and behavioral basis for their habituation, and to investigate the efficacy of population‐based and personalized interventions in prevention of periodontal disease.
Life‐threatening pathogens in severe/progressive periodontitis: Focal infection risk, future periodontal practice, role of the Periodontology 2000
Authors: Slots Jørgen
Published: August 2020

Severe/progressive periodontitis is associated with cardiovascular disease, cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, and dozens of other serious diseases. Herpesviruses are implicated in severe periodontitis and in specific subsets of each of the above systemic diseases. That both periodontitis and herpesviruses are linked to the same nonoral diseases is consistent with a systemic pathogenic role of periodontal herpesviruses. Effective control of periodontitis‐related systemic diseases requires collaboration between dentistry and medicine. Periodontology has emerged as an important preventive medical discipline, and periodontal teaching and practice need to adjust accordingly.
The More Who Die, the Less We Care: Evidence from Natural Language Analysis of Online News Articles and Social Media Posts
Authors: Bhatia Sudeep , Walasek Lukasz , Slovic Paul , Kunreuther Howard
Published: August 2020

Considerable amount of laboratory and survey‐based research finds that people show disproportional compassionate and affective response to the scope of human mortality risk. According to research on “psychic numbing,” it is often the case that the more who die, the less we care. In the present article, we examine the extent of this phenomenon in verbal behavior, using large corpora of natural language to quantify the affective reactions to loss of life. We analyze valence, arousal, and specific emotional content of over 100,000 mentions of death in news articles and social media posts, and find that language shows an increase in valence (i.e., decreased negative affect) and a decrease in arousal when describing mortality of larger numbers of people. These patterns are most clearly reflected in specific emotions of joy and (in a reverse fashion) of fear and anger. Our results showcase a novel methodology for studying affective decision making, and highlight the robustness and real‐world relevance of psychic numbing. They also offer new insights regarding the psychological underpinnings of psychic numbing, as well as possible interventions for reducing psychic numbing and overcoming social and psychological barriers to action in the face of the world's most serious threats.
The thin red line between species – genomic differentiation of Gymnosoma Meigen, a taxonomically challenging genus of parasitoid flies (Diptera: Tachinidae)
Authors: Lee Kyung Min , Zeegers Theo , Mutanen Marko , Pohjoismäki Jaakko
Published: August 2020

In traditional taxonomy, species are differentiated using morphological arguments, which can be subjective and cause confusion particularly when the initial species descriptions have been inadequate. The development of DNA‐based methods has provided more objective tools to recognize and quantify species differences, as well as enabled the detection of cryptic that is morphologically indistinguishable, species. Conversely, we show here that large‐scale, genome‐wide analysis of 11 427 loci and 65 825 SNPs is mostly unable to differentiate between many of the currently valid Palearctic species of bug‐killing parasitoid flies in the genus Gymnosoma Meigen (Diptera: Tachinidae), despite the proposed morphological differences. We conclude that alongside a few well‐defined taxa with discrete morphological features and unique DNA barcodes, Palearctic Gymnosoma is likely to contain a single, highly variable and geographically widespread species.
Using real data for statistics education in an open‐source learning environment
Authors: Jonsdottir Anna H. , Lentin Jamie , Calian Violeta , Hafsteinsson Eggert K. , Stefansson Gunnar
Published: August 2020

The tutor‐web is an open‐source learning environment designed to be used for teaching mathematics and statistics. The system offers thousands of exercises at high school and university level, and has been used for a decade to teach introductory statistics courses with good results. A new component has recently been added to the tutor‐web so that students can enter their own data or get real data from several data sources for practicing and learning new concepts.
Disseminated histoplasmosis with ocular adnexal involvement in seven cats
Authors: Ewald Margaret M. , Rankin Amy J. , Meekins Jessica M. , McCool Emily S.
Published: August 2020

Objective

To describe the clinical features, diagnosis, and treatment of disseminated histoplasmosis with conjunctival and/or nictitating membrane involvement in cats.

Procedure

Medical records from seven cats with naturally acquired disseminated histoplasmosis and conjunctival and/or nictitating membrane lesions were reviewed for signalment, clinical findings, diagnostic results, treatment, and outcome.

Results

Breeds included domestic shorthair (n = 5), Maine Coon (n = 1), and Siamese mix (n = 1) with four spayed females and three castrated males. Conjunctival abnormalities were identified in four cats, and nictitating membrane lesions were identified in four cats; one cat had both a conjunctival and nictitating membrane lesion. Cytologic evaluation of lesions identified Histoplasma capsulatum organisms in two of four cases sampled, and histopathologic evaluation identified H capsulatum in both cases in which a sample was submitted. Histoplasmosis antigen testing was positive in three of four submitted samples. Initial treatment for all cats included fluconazole (median dose: 26 mg/kg/d). Median duration of follow‐up was 11 months (range: 1‐108 months; n = 4). Resolution of ocular adnexal lesions was achieved in three cats. Two cats had relapse of disease, one of which was subsequently euthanized. One cat with concurrent feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) infection died one month after diagnosis of histoplasmosis.

Conclusions

Histoplasmosis should be a differential diagnosis for ocular adnexal inflammatory lesions in cats.
Insulin‐stimulated glucose uptake partly relies on p21‐activated kinase (PAK)2, but not PAK1, in mouse skeletal muscle
Authors: Møller Lisbeth L. V. , Jaurji Merna , Kjøbsted Rasmus , Joseph Giselle A. , Madsen Agnete B. , Knudsen Jonas R. , Lundsgaard Anne‐Marie , Andersen Nicoline R. , Schjerling Peter , Jensen Thomas E. , Krauss Robert S. , Richter Erik A. , Sylow Lykke
Published: August 2020

Key points

Muscle‐specific genetic ablation of p21‐activated kinase (PAK)2, but not whole‐body PAK1 knockout, impairs glucose tolerance in mice.

Insulin‐stimulated glucose uptake partly relies on PAK2 in glycolytic extensor digitorum longus muscle

By contrast to previous reports, PAK1 is dispensable for insulin‐stimulated glucose uptake in mouse muscle.

The group I p21‐activated kinase (PAK) isoforms PAK1 and PAK2 are activated in response to insulin in skeletal muscle and PAK1/2 signalling is impaired in insulin‐resistant mouse and human skeletal muscle. Interestingly, PAK1 has been suggested to be required for insulin‐stimulated glucose transporter 4 translocation in mouse skeletal muscle. Therefore, the present study aimed to examine the role of PAK1 in insulin‐stimulated muscle glucose uptake. The pharmacological inhibitor of group I PAKs, IPA‐3 partially reduced (–20%) insulin‐stimulated glucose uptake in isolated mouse soleus muscle (P < 0.001). However, because there was no phenotype with genetic ablation of PAK1 alone, consequently, the relative requirement for PAK1 and PAK2 in whole‐body glucose homeostasis and insulin‐stimulated muscle glucose uptake was investigated. Whole‐body respiratory exchange ratio was largely unaffected in whole‐body PAK1 knockout (KO), muscle‐specific PAK2 KO and in mice with combined whole‐body PAK1 KO and muscle‐specific PAK2 KO. By contrast, glucose tolerance was mildly impaired in mice lacking PAK2 specifically in muscle, but not PAK1 KO mice. Moreover, while PAK1 KO muscles displayed normal insulin‐stimulated glucose uptake in vivo and in isolated muscle, insulin‐stimulated glucose uptake was slightly reduced in isolated glycolytic extensor digitorum longus muscle lacking PAK2 alone (–18%) or in combination with PAK1 KO (–12%) (P < 0.05). In conclusion, glucose tolerance and insulin‐stimulated glucose uptake partly rely on PAK2 in glycolytic mouse muscle, whereas PAK1 is dispensable for whole‐body glucose homeostasis and insulin‐stimulated muscle glucose uptake.
Tilting Pad Journal Bearing Misalignment Effect on Thermally Induced Synchronous Instability (Morton Effect)
Authors: Shin Dongil , Palazzolo Alan B.
Published: August 2020

This paper investigates the influence of misaligned journal bearing effects on the thermally induced rotor instability (Morton effect “ME”) problem. The Morton effect is caused by uneven viscous heating of the journal in a fluid film bearing, which causes thermal bending, especially in rotors with an overhung disc or coupling weight. The thermally induced bending in the shaft may cause a vibration instability, which results in an excessive level of synchronous vibration. Previous research focused on parametric studies of the rotor and bearing design parameters, including overhung mass, bearing radial clearance, and lubricant viscosity. The present study investigates the influence of journal misalignment on the Morton effect. A coupled fluid-thermal-structural, three-dimensional finite element model (FEM) is developed to simulate fluid film pressures and temperatures, and shaft temperatures and vibrations. Simulations were conducted with different ratios of journal misalignment, and different pad-pivot types to determine their effect on the phenomenon. The simulation results indicate that the amplitude of the misalignment angle affects the instability speed range (ISR) caused by the Morton effect under certain conditions.
A Review of Journal Bearing Thermal Effects on Rotordynamic Response
Authors: Shin Dongil , Yang Jongin , Tong Xiaomeng , Suh Junho , Palazzolo Alan
Published: August 2020

Traditional analysis of journal bearings assumed a constant viscosity which simplified the solutions for static and dynamic characteristics and responses. Today's high-performance machinery requires more accurate models wherein temperature and viscosity distributions in the film must be calculated. Thermal effects in journal bearings have a strong influence on both static and dynamic properties, and consequently play a critical role in determining rotor-bearing system performance. This paper presents an extensive survey of the thermal modeling methods and effects in journal bearings. The subjects include various bearing types, and recent progress in thermal bearing design and thermal instability problems observed in fluid and gas film hydrodynamic bearings. The extent of the survey ranges from conventional Reynolds equation models to more advanced computational fluid dynamics models.
An Optimal Model Identification Algorithm of Nonlinear Dynamical Systems With the Algebraic Method
Authors: Leylaz Ghazaale , Ma Shangjie (Frank) , Sun Jian-Qiao
Published: August 2020

This article proposes a nonparametric system identification technique to discover the governing equation of nonlinear dynamic systems with the focus on practical aspects. The algorithm builds on Brunton’s work in 2016 and combines the sparse regression with an algebraic calculus to estimate the required derivatives of the measurements. This reduces the required derivative data for the system identification. Furthermore, we make use of the concepts of K-fold cross validation from machine learning and information criteria for model selection. This allows the system identification with less measurements than the typically required data for the sparse regression. The result is an optimal model for the underlining system of the data with a minimum number of terms. The proposed nonparametric system identification method is applicable for multiple-input–multiple-output systems. Two examples are presented to demonstrate the proposed method. The first one makes use of the simulated data of a nonlinear oscillator to show the effectiveness and accuracy of the proposed method. The second example is a nonlinear rotary flexible beam. Experimental responses of the beam are used to identify the underlining model. The Coulomb friction in the servo motor together with other nonlinear terms of the system variables are found to be important components of the model. These are, otherwise, not available in the theoretical linear model of the system.
Operational Transfer Path Analysis Based on Signal Decoupling
Authors: Song Leiming , Gui Qing , Chen Hao , Bai Haifei , Sun Yu
Published: August 2020

This study proposes an input decoupling analysis method based on the pulse test and the traditional operational transfer path analysis (OTPA) method for the OTPA transmission path analysis when the input is strongly coupled, and the algorithm is verified for analysis optimization of results. An experimental model of the dual excitation source is established in the laboratory. Experimental comparison studies show that the OTPA method, which is based on signal decoupling, inhibits the influence of cross-coupling among the source signals during OTPA analysis and effectively improves the accuracy of the transmission path test and analysis. The OTPA method is applied to analyze the transfer path of the vibration and noise of the carriages of the electric multiple unit (EMU) train (a high-speed train in China). The false peak frequency in the traditional OTPA method is eliminated, and the accuracy of the analysis is improved.
A Green’s Function Solution for Acoustic Attenuation by a Cylindrical Chamber With Concentric Perforated Liners
Authors: Veerababu D. , Venkatesham B.
Published: August 2020

In this study, a Green’s function-based semi-analytical method is presented to predict the transmission loss (TL) of a circular chamber having concentric perforated screens. Initially, the Green’s function is developed for a single-screen configuration as the summation of eigenfunctions of the inner pipe in the absence of the mean flow. The inlet and the outlet ports are modeled as oscillating piston sources. A transfer matrix is formulated from the velocity potential generated by the piston sources. The results obtained from the proposed method are validated with the numerical and analytical models and with the experimental results available in the literature. Later, the method has been extended to the double-screen configuration. The effect of the additional perforated screen on the TL is studied in terms of the surface impedance of the chamber. Along with grazing flow considerations, guidelines are provided to incorporate more concentric perforated screens into the formulation.
Optimal Energy Dispatch Controller for Fuel Cell-Integrated Multi-Zone Building
Authors: Lin Yashen , Chinde Venkatesh , Huang Sen
Published: August 2020

Stationary fuel cells provide potential opportunities for energy savings when integrated with buildings. Through smart dispatch of both electrical power and heat generated by the fuel cells and managing the building loads, the buildings can achieve more efficient operation. In this paper, we develop an optimal energy dispatch controller to operate a fuel cell-integrated building. The controller leverages the inherent thermal storage and the dispatchable fuel cell to reduce its operating cost and to allow the building to participate in grid services. The proposed controller is implemented on two types of commercial buildings, a large office building and a large hotel, and the effectiveness of the controller is demonstrated through simulations. The results also indicate that the potential saving varies significantly with different system parameters, including season, fuel prices, and equipment sizing, which provide helpful insights for building operators and other stake holders.
Three-Dimensional Profilometry Utilization on VVER Type Reactors
Authors: Brom Jaroslav , Patera Jan , Zahrádka Pavel
Published: August 2020

The paper is focused on the application of three-dimensional (3D) profilometry on water–water energetic reactor (VVER) type nuclear power plant (NPP) equipment. This method is becoming increasingly used in the power industry and replaces conventional methods such as micrometer measurements. One of the greatest benefits is the accurate recording of the 3D profile of the measured surface and the possibility of its comparison with the production documentation or with the results from previous measurements. Centrum Výkumu Řež, s.r.o. (Research Center Řež) uses 3D laser scanner with a measuring arm. This method was, for example, successfully used for reactor pressure vessel (RPV), steam generator (SG), and bolts. The results are used by the NPP operator for the lifetime management of the primary circuit components.
Real-time multi-frequency ultrasound imaging for quantitative lung ultrasound – first clinical results
Authors: Demi Libertario , Demi Marcello , Prediletto Renato , Soldati Gino
Published: August 2020

Lung ultrasound imaging is a fast-evolving field of application for ultrasound technologies. However, most diagnoses are currently performed with imaging protocols that assume a quasi-homogeneous speed of sound in the volume of interest. When applied to the lung, due to the presence of air, this assumption is unrealistic. Consequently, diagnoses are often based on imaging artifacts and thus qualitative and subjective. In this paper, we present an image formation protocol that is capable of capturing the frequency dependence of well-known artifacts (B-lines) and visualizing it in real time, ultimately providing a quantitative assessment of the signals received from the lung. Previous in vitro studies have shown the potential of B-lines native-frequency for the characterization of bubbly medium, but this paper presents the first results on clinical data. The image formation process has been designed to work on lung tissue, and ultrasound images generated with four orthogonal bands centered at 3, 4, 5 and 6 MHz can be acquired and displayed in real time. Results show that B-lines can be characterized on the basis of their native frequency in vivo and open the way toward real-time quantitative lung ultrasound imaging.
Predicting the exposure of diving grey seals to shipping noise
Authors: Trigg Leah E. , Chen Feng , Shapiro Georgy I. , Ingram Simon N. , Vincent Cécile , Thompson David , Russell Debbie J. F. , Carter Matt I. D. , Embling Clare B.
Published: August 2020

There is high spatial overlap between grey seals and shipping traffic, and the functional hearing range of grey seals indicates sensitivity to underwater noise emitted by ships. However, there is still very little data regarding the exposure of grey seals to shipping noise, constraining effective policy decisions. Particularly, there are few predictions that consider the at-sea movement of seals. Consequently, this study aimed to predict the exposure of adult grey seals and pups to shipping noise along a three-dimensional movement track, and assess the influence of shipping characteristics on sound exposure levels. Using ship location data, a ship source model, and the acoustic propagation model, RAMSurf, this study estimated weighted 24-h sound exposure levels (10–1000 Hz) (SELw). Median predicted 24-h SELw was 128 and 142 dB re 1 μPa2s for the pups and adults, respectively. The predicted exposure of seals to shipping noise did not exceed best evidence thresholds for temporary threshold shift. Exposure was mediated by the number of ships, ship source level, the distance between seals and ships, and the at-sea behaviour of the seals. The results can inform regulatory planning related to anthropogenic pressures on seal populations.
Dependency of threshold and loudness on sound duration at low and infrasonic frequencies
Authors: Jurado Carlos , Larrea Marcelo , Patel Hiren , Marquardt Torsten
Published: August 2020

Many environmental sounds contain significant energy in the infrasonic and low-frequency (ISLF) ranges that have been associated with cases of annoyance and noise complaints. This study assessed the effect of sound duration on audibility and loudness of ISLF sounds. A first experiment evaluated detection thresholds for tones of 4, 16, and 32 Hz with durations up to 4000 ms. Furthermore, equal-loudness-level contours (ELCs) were obtained as function of duration up to 2000 ms. Tones of 1000 Hz were also included here. Results displayed the known pattern of general sound level decrease with increasing duration up to several hundred milliseconds. ELCs stabilized slightly earlier than thresholds, but after 1000 ms, levels remained roughly constant for both measures except for 4-Hz tones, where the decrease continued up to the longest durations tested. As 4-Hz cycles are perceptually resolved as separate pressure pulses, the authors hypothesized their duration dependence would resemble that of pulse trains. Hence, a second experiment evaluated pulse-train thresholds (1000-Hz carrier) for durations up to 4000 ms. For both pulse repetition rates of 4 and 32 Hz, threshold stabilized after 1000 ms as for tones ≥16 Hz, suggesting the continuing threshold decrease for a 4-Hz tone is specific to infrasound.
Laryngeal strategies to minimize vocal fold contact pressure and their effect on voice production
Authors: Zhang Zhaoyan
Published: August 2020

The goal of this study is to identify laryngeal strategies that minimize vocal fold contact pressure while producing a target sound pressure level (SPL) using a three-dimensional voice production model. The results show that while the subglottal pressure and transverse stiffness can be manipulated to reduce the peak contact pressure, such manipulations also reduce the SPL, and are thus less effective in reducing contact pressure in voice tasks targeting a specific SPL level. In contrast, changes in the initial glottal angle and vocal fold vertical thickness that reduce the contact pressure also increase the SPL. Thus, in voice tasks targeting a specific SPL, such changes in the initial glottal angle and vertical thickness also lower the subglottal pressure, which further reduces the peak contact pressure. Overall the results show that for voice tasks with a target SPL level, vocal fold contact pressure can be significantly reduced by adopting a barely abducted glottal configuration or reducing the vocal fold vertical thickness. Aerodynamic measures are effective in identifying voice production with large initial glottal angles, but by themselves alone are not useful in differentiating hyperadducted vocal folds from barely abducted vocal folds, which may be better differentiated by closed quotient and voice type measures.
Floquet metal-to-insulator phase transitions in semiconductor nanowires
Authors: Esin Iliya , Rudner Mark S. , Lindner Netanel H.
Published: August 2020

Laser-illuminated semiconductor nanowires host a nonequilibrium metal-to-insulator quantum phase transition.
Fate mapping via CCR2-CreER mice reveals monocyte-to-microglia transition in development and neonatal stroke
Authors: Chen Hong-Ru , Sun Yu-Yo , Chen Ching-Wen , Kuo Yi-Min , Kuan Irena S. , Tiger Li Zheng-Rong , Short-Miller Jonah C. , Smucker Marchelle R. , Kuan Chia-Yi
Published: August 2020

Fate mapping study via a new transgenic mouse line reveals monocyte-to-microglia conversion in development and after brain injury.
Global and local envelope protein dynamics of hepatitis C virus determine broad antibody sensitivity
Authors: Augestad Elias H. , Castelli Matteo , Clementi Nicola , Ströh Luisa J. , Krey Thomas , Burioni Roberto , Mancini Nicasio , Bukh Jens , Prentoe Jannick
Published: August 2020

New insights into hepatitis C virus evasion from neutralizing antibodies have important implications for vaccine development.
Chlamydial contribution to anaerobic metabolism during eukaryotic evolution
Authors: Stairs Courtney W. , Dharamshi Jennah E. , Tamarit Daniel , Eme Laura , Jørgensen Steffen L. , Spang Anja , Ettema Thijs J. G.
Published: August 2020

Genomic analysis of newly identified Chlamydiae reveals that their ancestors contributed to the evolution of anaerobic eukaryotes.
Systemic anti-inflammatory therapy aided by double-headed nanoparticles in a canine model of acute intraocular inflammation
Authors: Ganugula R. , Arora M. , Lepiz M. A. , Niu Y. , Mallick B. K. , Pflugfelder S. C. , Scott E. M. , Kumar M. N. V. Ravi
Published: August 2020

Orally delivered double-headed nanoparticle curcumin has potential to treat intraocular inflammation.
Correlation between tectonic CO
2
Earth degassing and seismicity is revealed by a 10-year record in the Apennines, Italy
Authors: Chiodini G. , Cardellini C. , Di Luccio F. , Selva J. , Frondini F. , Caliro S. , Rosiello A. , Beddini G. , Ventura G.
Published: August 2020

Massive emissions of deep CO
2
coupled to the 2009–2018 Central Italy earthquakes.
Artificial regulation of state transition for augmenting plant photosynthesis using synthetic light-harvesting polymer materials
Authors: Zhou Xin , Zeng Yue , Tang Yongyan , Huang Yiming , Lv Fengting , Liu Libing , Wang Shu
Published: August 2020

A light-harvesting polymer is used to augment photosynthesis through regulating state transition of photosystems I and II.
Bioadhesive hydrogels demonstrating pH-independent and ultrafast gelation promote gastric ulcer healing in pigs
Authors: Xu Xiayi , Xia Xianfeng , Zhang Kunyu , Rai Aliza , Li Zhuo , Zhao Pengchao , Wei Kongchang , Zou Li , Yang Boguang , Wong Wai-Ki , Chiu Philip Wai-Yan , Bian Liming
Published: August 2020

Bioadhesive hydrogel with ultrafast gelation independent of environmental pH is endoscopically delivered to enhance gastric ulcer healing.
Sirt2: A master regulator of T cell metabolism?
Authors: Shi Lewis Z.
Published: August 2020

Sirt2 controls metabolic fitness and antitumor function of T cells.
Taxonomic Changes for Human and Animal Viruses, 2018 to 2020
Authors: Loeffelholz Michael J. , Fenwick Bradley W.
Published: August 2020

The classification of viruses is relevant to a number of scientific and clinical disciplines, including the practice of diagnostic virology. Here, we provide an update to our previous review of taxonomic changes for disease-causing viruses in humans and vertebrate animals, covering changes between 2018 and 2020. Recent advances in virus taxonomy structure by the International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses inform this update.