High Sugar Research Articles

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy and neuromodulation techniques: a systematic review of progress and prospects.

Neuromodulation for diabetic peripheral neuropathy represents a significant area of interest in the management of chronic pain associated with this condition. Diabetic peripheral neuropathy, a common complication of diabetes, is characterized by nerve damage due to high blood sugar levels that lead to symptoms, such as pain, tingling, and numbness, primarily in the hands and feet. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the efficacy of neuromodulatory techniques as potential therapeutic interventions for patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy, while also examining recent developments in this domain. The investigation encompassed an array of neuromodulation methods, including frequency rhythmic electrical modulated systems, dorsal root ganglion stimulation, and spinal cord stimulation. This systematic review suggests that neuromodulatory techniques may be useful in the treatment of diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Understanding the advantages of these treatments will enable physicians and other healthcare providers to offer additional options for patients with symptoms refractory to standard pharmacologic treatments. Through these efforts, we may improve quality of life and increase functional capacity in patients suffering from complications related to diabetic neuropathy.

Translational evaluation of metabolic risk factors impacting DBS efficacy for PD-Related sleep and depressive disorders: preclinical, prospective and cohort studies.

Parkinson's disease (PD) is linked with metabolic risk factors including body mass index (BMI), fasting blood glucose (FBG), cholesterol levels, and triglycerides (TG). The extent to which these factors affect motor symptoms, depression, and sleep problems in PD, as well as their role in determining the success of deep brain stimulation (DBS) therapy, is yet to be fully understood. This study delved into the effects of metabolic risk factors like BMI, FBG, cholesterol, and TG on the outcomes of DBS in treating PD-related depression and sleep disturbances, across both mouse models and human subjects. DBS showcased noticeable betterment in depression and sleep perturbations in both PD-afflicted mice and patients. High-sugar-high-fat diet aggravates MPTP-induced depression and sleep disorders in mice. PD-afflicted individuals presenting with depressive and sleep disorders demonstrated elevated metrics of BMI, FBG, blood cholesterol, and TG. Remarkably, these metrics bore considerable adverse influences on the efficiency of DBS in ameliorating depression and sleep issues, yet spared motor symptoms. The favorable impacts of DBS persisted for approximately 6 years, post which a significant decline was noted. Importantly, our translational evidence from both murine controls and patient cohorts indicated that antihyperglycemic and antihyperlipidemic therapies bolstered the efficacy of DBS in mitigating PD-related depression and sleep disturbances, without impinging upon motor functions in patients. In summary, this research emphasizes that DBS is a powerful treatment option for depression and sleep issues in PD, with its success influenced by metabolic risk factors. It further suggests that incorporating treatments for high blood sugar and cholesterol can enhance the efficacy of DBS in treating depression and sleep disturbances in PD, without impacting motor symptoms, highlighting the importance of metabolic risk management in PD patients receiving DBS.

‘What are they thinking of?’

This article explains the thinking underlying recent activism in digital markets by competition regulators – with reference to cases undertaken by the CMA, the European Commission and the US authorities, and to the new UK and EU regulatory regimes for competition in digital markets. It addresses some common misconceptions about competition authorities’ thinking on digital markets, and identifies strategies most likely to be effective for tech companies in dealing with competition authorities. It argues that: (i) the consumer and competition benefits brought by the tech industry are real and substantial; (ii) contrary to common belief, these benefits are recognized by competition authorities; (iii) recent competition regulatory activism should be understood in the context of a belief that it is necessary to preserve those benefits, by allowing new generations of tech disruptors to emerge; (iv) when tech companies face competition investigations or interventions, they should resist the temptation to kneejerk dismissal of all possible concerns, which is unlikely to be effective in advancing their business interests, because it misunderstands the authorities’ thinking; and (v) smarter strategies involve engaging with the specific facts of a particular case (economic, legal and technical) to challenge whether proposed interventions or remedies are, in reality, both effective and proportionate.

Oral health in obese children common findings, prevention, treatment and outcome

Childhood obesity is a significant global public health issue, closely linked to various oral health challenges, including dental caries, periodontal disease, and malocclusion. Obese children are more prone to these dental problems due to dietary habits that include high sugar and carbohydrate intake, poor oral hygiene practices, and systemic inflammation. This review explores the common oral health issues faced by obese children and emphasizes the importance of preventive strategies and tailored treatment approaches. Preventive measures include promoting healthy dietary habits, improving oral hygiene practices, and ensuring regular dental check-ups. Dietary modifications, such as reducing the intake of sugary snacks and beverages, play a crucial role in preventing tooth decay and other dental problems. Educating children and caregivers about proper brushing and flossing techniques and the use of fluoride toothpaste and dental sealants further supports oral health. Regular dental visits allow for early detection and management of dental issues, with professional cleanings, fluoride treatments, and appropriate restorative and periodontal therapies being integral components of care. The outcomes of these comprehensive treatment strategies are generally positive, leading to improved oral health and overall quality of life for obese children. Multidisciplinary collaboration among healthcare providers, including dentists, pediatricians, and nutritionists, is essential to develop effective care plans that address both obesity and oral health. This integrated approach ensures that obese children receive holistic care that promotes lifelong healthy habits, reducing the risk of future dental and systemic health problems. The review underscores the necessity of a concerted effort to address the intertwined issues of obesity and oral health in children, highlighting the potential for significant health improvements through targeted prevention and treatment strategies.

Analyzing the Impact of CALL Tools on English Learners' Writing Skills: A Comparative Study of Errors Correction

The study seeks to compare the effectiveness of Computer-Assisted Language Learning Tools (ChatGPT, Grammarly, and Google Translate) in correcting the occurrences of common errors in English as a second/foreign language (ESL/EFL) learners’ writing. An experimental design offered instructions for Class A with ChatGPT, Class B with Grammarly, Class C with Google Translate, and Class D was the control group with no exposure to any of these tools. Data were collected from texts created by the students based on pictures, both before and after the intervention. It was found that ESL/EFL learners frequently made eight distinct types of errors in their writing: spelling, punctuation, capitalization, possessive words, verb forms, subject-verb agreement, articles, and prepositions. The interventions across different classes showed that ChatGPT in Class A significantly corrected spelling, verb form, and subject-verb agreement-related errors, Grammarly in Class B excelled in correcting prepositional errors, and Google Translate in Class C effectively addressed errors in article use, capitalization, and possessives. In contrast, the control group in Class D surpassed the others in enhancing punctuation. In Class A, ChatGPT, and in Class B, Google Translate displayed enhanced effectiveness in rectifying common writing errors of ESL learners compared to Grammarly in Class B and the control group. The findings suggest that employing targeted digital tools for distinct grammatical challenges can substantially enhance learning outcomes in a language learning context.

Diabetes Disparities: Addressing Health Inequities and Improving Outcomes in Underserved Populations

Diabetes mellitus, characterized by high blood sugar levels due to insulin deficiency or resistance, is a global public health crisis with significant disparities in prevalence, management, and outcomes, particularly among underserved populations such as racial and ethnic minorities, low-income groups, and rural residents. These populations faced higher rates of diabetes and complications due to social determinants of health, including economic instability, inadequate education, and limited access to healthcare. Barriers such as lack of insurance, transportation challenges, and cultural and linguistic differences further hindered effective diabetes management. Lifestyle and behavioral factors, including diet, physical activity, medication adherence, and mental health, play critical roles in diabetes outcomes. Policy and system-level interventions, such as expanding healthcare coverage, improving access to care, and addressing social determinants of health, are essential to reducing disparities. Technological innovations like telehealth, mobile health applications, wearable devices, and data analytics offered significant potential to enhance diabetes management in underserved populations. This review was conducted using a comprehensive analysis of current literature and existing studies to provide insights into the multifaceted nature of diabetes disparities and to highlight successful interventions and necessary policy changes to improve health outcomes for underserved populations. Addressing these inequities required a multifaceted approach, including community-based interventions, policy reforms, and technological advancements to ensure equitable diabetes care for all. Keywords: Diabetes disparities, Underserved populations, social determinants of health, Healthcare access, Technological innovations.

Study of Differences in Blood Sugar Levels of Diabetes Mellitus Patients Who Consume Rice Cooked with the Rice Cooker Method and The Steaming Method

The 2023 Indonesian Health Survey Report issued by the Ministry of Health revealed that there was an increase in the prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM) in the population aged over 15 years based on the results of blood sugar level measurements. In the 2018 Basic Health Research, it was recorded that the prevalence of diabetes in Indonesia reached 10.9%. Now, the prevalence has reached 11.7% in 2023. The Aceh Health Office recorded that sufferers of Diabetes Mellitus until early 2023 reached 154,889 cases. The purpose of this study is to find out the difference in blood sugar levels in people with diabetes mellitus who consume rice after cooking with the rice cooker method and with the steaming method. This quantitative analytical research uses a cross-sectional study design. The population of the study was all people with diabetes mellitus at the Calang Health Center, Aceh Jaya Regency, totaling 50 people. Data collection was carried out from January 15 to March 15, 2024 using nonprobability sampling techniques. This study also took direct data by looking at the sugar content of the respondents by eating rice cooked by the rice cooker method and 1 month later by measuring the sugar content of the respondents consuming rice by cooking the rice by steaming. Data were analyzed using univariate, bivariate and multivariate statistical tests. The results of the study showed that factors related to blood sugar levels in DM patients were gender, age, education, occupation, income, physical activity, nutritional status, smoking behavior, and family history of diabetes. The factors most related to increased blood sugar levels in diabetes mellitus patients were steaming with OR=7.47, use of a rice cooker of 11.2 and family history of diabetes mellitus of 7.50. It is expected that respondents will control their blood sugar levels, so that DM sufferers and their families will cook rice using the steaming method, and control other risk factors that can cause high blood sugar levels.

Prevention of HIV among Older Adults: A Comprehensive Review

HIV/AIDS has historically been associated with younger populations, but the growing number of older adults affected by the virus has prompted a shift in focus. This review examines the unique challenges faced by older adults in preventing and managing HIV, addressing their biological, social, and healthcare-related vulnerabilities. Factors such as the success of antiretroviral therapy (ART) in extending life expectancy, late diagnoses, and the lack of targeted prevention efforts contribute to the increasing prevalence of HIV among individuals over 50. The review explores the epidemiology of HIV in older adults, the risk factors specific to this demographic—including sexual health, low awareness, and social isolation—and the barriers to adequate healthcare access, such as stigma and inadequate provider awareness. Additionally, the review dispels common misconceptions about HIV in older adults, including stereotypes around sexual inactivity and age-related immunity. The need for age-specific prevention strategies, tailored healthcare interventions, and improved education on sexual health in older adults is highlighted. By identifying gaps in current HIV prevention programs and proposing comprehensive interventions, this review emphasizes the importance of addressing the HIV epidemic among older adults to ensure equitable healthcare outcomes. Keywords: HIV/AIDS, older adults, antiretroviral therapy (ART), late diagnosis, sexual health, HIV prevention.

Targeted Analysis of Common Spelling Errors among Grade Six Pupils

Spelling errors are the most common inaccuracies in the writing of ESL learners. Despite the numerous studies on writing, teaching spelling as a research topic has often been overlooked. The primary objectives of this mixed method study are to describe the common spelling errors of grade 6 pupils of an all-girls school in Metro Manila post-pandemic, identify teaching strategies to minimize spelling errors and propose recommendations for teaching spelling. First, spelling tests and student handwritten essays were analyzed for spelling errors, which were later categorized using Cook’s classification. Second, interviews with Language teachers to identify teaching strategies were held, determining key themes and best practices in spelling instruction. The results indicated that students committed spelling errors mostly by omission, substitution, and insertion, and the strategies to enhance spelling skills include utilizing visuals, engaging students through interactive materials and collaborative activities, and using the words in context. Based on the findings, it is recommended to consider the following in crafting a spelling program: a fundamental list of commonly misspelled words following the rule-based system, a bank of effective strategies to expose students to words in context and engage them for active learning, a continuous assessment of spelling student abilities, and evaluation of the spelling program.

Prospective associations between an empirically derived dietary pattern and life satisfaction in Malaysian adolescents

BackgroundLittle is known on the prospective associations between an empirically derived dietary pattern (DP) and life satisfaction among adolescents. This PUTRA-Adol follow-up study aimed to assess the prospective associations between the empirically derived DP and life satisfaction during adolescence.MethodsA total of 585 and 262 adolescents participated in the baseline PUTRA-Adol study in 2016 and PUTRA-Adol follow-up study in 2019–2020, respectively. These adolescents were recruited from three southern states in peninsular Malaysia, namely Negeri Sembilan, Melaka and Johor. Dietary assessments were estimated using a validated food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) while a Multidimensional Students’ Life Satisfaction Scale (MSLSS) was used to measure life satisfaction at baseline in 2016 as well as at follow-up in 2019–2020. A DP characterised by foods high in free sugar and energy dense was identified using reduced rank regression (RRR), cross-sectionally at baseline and was reported elsewhere. Similar RRR analysis was used to find a DP that best explained the variation in response variables linked to poorer life satisfaction, including dietary energy density (DED), fiber density, and percentage of energy from total fat and sugar at the PUTRA-Adol follow-up study. Prospective relationship between adherence to the identified DPs and overall life satisfaction scores as well as its domains between 2016 and 2019–2020 were evaluated using generalized estimating equation models (GEE).ResultsA DP characterized by high intakes of percentage energy from sugar, fibre and low in DED and percentage energy from total fat was identified at the 2019–2020 follow-up. The identified DP explained 11% of total variations in the response variables and was characterized by high intakes of sweets, sugar sweetened beverages (SSB) and fruits. Female adolescents [67.6(8.9)] had a mean (SD) of life satisfaction that was higher than male adolescents [67.5(10.8)] p < 0.05 in 2019–2020. Prospective analysis found a significant positive association between the identified DP and school domain, in male adolescents (β = 0.117; 95% CI 0.001, 0.234) and an inverse relationship between the DP z-score and self-domain in all adolescents (β = − 0.060; 95% CI − 0.115, − 0.005) from 2016 to 2019–2020.ConclusionsAn increasing score for the predominant ‘High sugar and High fibre’ DP was prospectively associated with increasing life satisfaction score for the school domain in male adolescents and decreasing score for self-domain in both male and females during adolescence. A lifestyle intervention targeting reduced dietary intakes, particularly sugar, may improve life satisfaction in adolescents and promote healthier future without compromising dietary intakes for chronic disease prevention later in life.

The Analysis Study of Prevalence of Gastrointestinal Complication in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus : A Comprehensive Systematic Review

Background: Diabetes, a chronic metabolic disorder, has a high prevalence worldwide due to changing lifestyles and urbanization. It is associated with life-threatening hazards and disabling complications, decreasing life expectancy. Gastroparesis, a well-known manifestation, is more prevalent in women. Understanding the prevalence of gastrointestinal complications in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients is crucial for creating effective treatment regimens. Methods: Adhering to the PRISMA 2020 principles, this systematic study focused on analyzing complete English literature texts published from 2011 to 2024. Several websites, such as ScienceDirect, PubMed, and SagePub, were used to collect the literature. Result: The study examined over 4000 publications sourced from recognized platforms such as Science Direct, SagePub, and PubMed. Following the decision to subject eight publications to further scrutiny, a comprehensive examination of the complete body of literature was conducted. Conclusion: Diabetes often leads to gastroparesis, a condition affecting the upper gastrointestinal tract, associated with metabolic imbalance, high blood sugar levels, low insulin, hormone release, and H. pylori infection. This condition is linked to the contractile activity of the duodenum, and is associated with various liver conditions, including diabetic fibrosis and cirrhosis.

Analysis of the Spatial Distribution and Common Mode Error Correlation in a Small-Scale GNSS Network.

When analyzing GPS time series, common mode errors (CME) often obscure the actual crustal movement signals, leading to deviations in the velocity estimates of station coordinates. Therefore, mitigating the impact of CME on station positioning accuracy is crucial to ensuring the precision and reliability of GNSS time series. The current approach to separating CME mainly uses signal filtering methods to decompose the residuals of the observation network into multiple signals, from which the signals corresponding to CME are identified and separated. However, this method overlooks the spatial correlation of the stations. In this paper, we improved the Independent Component Analysis (ICA) method by introducing correlation coefficients as weighting factors, allowing for more accurate emphasis or attenuation of the contributions of the GNSS network's spatial distribution during the ICA process. The results show that the improved Weighted Independent Component Analysis (WICA) method can reduce the root mean square (RMS) of the coordinate time series by an average of 27.96%, 15.23%, and 28.33% in the E, N, and U components, respectively. Compared to the ICA method, considering the spatial distribution correlation of stations, the improved WICA method shows enhancements of 12.53%, 3.70%, and 8.97% in the E, N, and U directions, respectively. This demonstrates the effectiveness of the WICA method in separating CMEs and provides a new algorithmic approach for CME separation methods.

Mathematical sciences as symbolic form: the objects and objectivity of science in Ernst Cassirer’s philosophy of science and culture

AbstractIn this paper, I explore how Cassirer’s early and mature epistemology, philosophy of science, and philosophy of culture make up a coherent and comprehensive view of the mathematical sciences that is fruitful for understanding contemporary science. In Cassirer’s first systematic work, Substanzbegriff und Funktionsbegriff, the mathematical sciences are understood through the concept of function. This implies that scientific investigation aims at increased unity in a system of functional concepts, rather than at answering the substance-rooted question of what is. In his mature work, Philosophie der symbolischen Formen, Cassirer expands his inquiry to diverse notions of objects and principles of symbolic forming, recognizing the mathematical sciences as one of many ways of structuring experience, alongside other symbolic forms such as myth and ordinary language. Together, Cassirer’s early and mature works detail the preconditions and idiosyncrasies of the unfolding of scientific objects and situate the mathematical sciences within the totality of human experience. Applying these insights to contemporary interpretations of science suggests connecting common misconceptions of science to challenges in translating objects between symbolic forms. I propose the concepts of domestication and mythification of science as instructive for clearing up such misunderstandings.

The Dispensing Error Rate in an App-Based, Semaglutide-Supported Weight-Loss Service: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

Digital weight-loss services (DWLSs) combining pharmacotherapy and health coaching have the potential to make a major contribution to the global struggle against obesity. However, the degree to which DWLSs compromise patient safety through the dispensation of Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA) medications is unknown. This study retrospectively analysed the rate at which patients reported GLP-1 RA dispensing errors from patient-selected and partner pharmacies of Australia's largest DWLS provider over a six-month period. The analysis found that 99 (0.35%) of the 28,165 dispensed semaglutide orders contained an error. Incorrect dose (58.6%) and unreasonable medication expiry window (21.2%) were the two most common error types. Most errors (84.9%) were deemed to have been of medium urgency, with 11.1% being considered high-urgency errors. Incorrect doses (45.5%) and supplies of the wrong medication (36.3%) comprised most errors reported in high-urgency cases. Female patients reported more dispensing errors than male patients (0.41% vs. 0.12%, p < 0.001). Similarly, reported dispensing error rates were highest among patients aged 18 to 29 years (0.6%) and 30 to 39 years (0.5%). This research provides preliminary evidence that GLP-1 RA dispensing errors within comprehensive Australian DWLSs are relatively low.

Structural Challenges and A Role in New Health Policy Management in Future India

The development of the Indian state has not been the leader in health and medical care top focus. Two noteworthy facts illustrate this. One is the health sector's low level of resource allocation and investment throughout time, which has been roughly 1% of GDP with a clear downward trend over the past ten years. Second, the unchecked, extremely quick growth of an unregulated private health industry, particularly in the past 20 years. Health policies are typically thought of as official written papers, regulations, and guidelines that represent the decisions made by legislators regarding the actions required to promote health and fortify the healthcare system. A common misconception about the "policy process" is that it proceeds logically and linearly from formulation to execution. Health policy is formulated through a multifaceted process that is influenced by numerous scientific, economic, social, and political factors. Within the context of the development of the nation's health sector, this study looks at the historical evolution of health policy making in India. Additionally, it assesses the current situation and offers suggestions for the course of future governmental initiatives.

Clinical applications, safety profiles, and future developments of contrast agents in modern radiology: A comprehensive review

AbstractContrast agents have transformed the field of medical imaging, significantly enhancing the visualisation of internal structures and improving diagnostic accuracy across X‐rays, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and ultrasound. This review explores the historical development, physicochemical properties, and mechanisms of action of iodinated, gadolinium‐based, barium sulfate, microbubble, and nanoparticle contrast agents. It highlights key advancements, including the transition from high‐osmolar to low‐ and iso‐osmolar iodinated agents, the integration of gadolinium in MRI, and the innovative use of microbubbles and nanoparticles. The review critically examines the safety profiles and adverse reactions of these contrast agents, categorising them into hypersensitivity and physiological reactions. It outlines risk factors, common misconceptions, and management strategies for adverse reactions, emphasising the importance of personalised approaches in clinical practice. Additionally, it delves into broader implications, including ethical considerations, environmental impact, and global accessibility of contrast media. The review also discusses technological advancements such as targeted contrast agents and the integration of artificial intelligence to optimise contrast dosage. By synthesising current knowledge and emerging trends, this review underscores the pivotal role of contrast agents in advancing medical imaging. It aims to equip clinicians, researchers, and policymakers with a thorough understanding to enhance diagnostic efficacy, ensure patient safety, and address ethical and environmental challenges, thereby informing future innovations and regulatory frameworks to promote equitable access to advanced imaging technologies globally.

Investigation of Pharmacological Screening Techniques for Diabetes Mellitus

Diabetes is the medical term for a condition in which the body fails to generate or use insulin as intended, leading to high blood sugar levels. Both in-vitro and in-vivo techniques are employed to assess the antidiabetic potential of synthetic or natural compounds that have been extracted from conventional plants. The rat paw oedema method is frequently used to screen anti-inflammatory medications. The use of animals in this procedure has drawbacks related to ethical concerns. We proposed an in vitro system in this context that would not have these drawbacks. Rat in vivo experiments are frequently used to screen anti-hyperlipidemic medications. Pharmacological screening currently entails testing novel chemical entities as plant extracts or any other type of material (synthetic or semisynthetic) in isolated preparations before testing on entire animals. Rats and mice are typically used, but occasionally higher animals like dogs and monkeys are as well. These techniques have been used to assess the majority of medications now used in therapy. Wherever possible, non-animal alternatives are being developed. Pharmacologists' constant struggle is to reconcile in vitro and in vivo results. A thorough grasp of the in vivo performance is one of the main objectives of pharmacological screening. Therefore, it would be praiseworthy to establish in vitro assessments that might be connected to in vivo performance.

Evaluation of confectionary sunflower germplasm accessions and their derived hybrids

AbstractConfectionary sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) has gained popularity due to its utilization in roasting as snacks, poultry, bird food, and bakery products. However, seed quality of confectionary sunflower differs from non-oil seed types. In the present study, 71 sunflower accessions were selected for the evaluation of seed quality traits. Significant genetic variability was observed for traits such as 100-seed mass and seed length, as indicated by high genotypic coefficients of variability. Genotypic correlation analysis revealed a positive association between 100-seed mass and seed size, protein content, and oleic acid content. Path coefficient analysis based on genotypic and phenotypic correlations suggested that accessions with high sugar content may be selected to develop superior germplasm for confectionary products. Biplot analysis was conducted to identify suitable accessions with favorable confectionary traits. Accessions ‘Hybrid 100’, ‘GOR101’, and ‘Odesskijj112’ exhibited high sugar content, while ‘Yawn’ demonstrated comparatively higher oleic acid content. Accessions ‘Vinimik 6931’ and ‘HA 305’ displayed high 100-seed mass, while seed length was greater in accessions ‘Comet’ and H. × multiflorous. Combining ability analysis were performed to assess the breeding value of accessions. ‘Comet’ exhibited the highest general combining ability (GCA) effects for seed yield per plant, head diameter and 100-achene mass; while ‘G.OR.104’ had positive GCA for achene yield per plant but negative combining ability for other traits. ‘Tenissiei’ displayed positive GCA for all traits. Among the testers, accession ‘Universal’ showed positive GCA for seed yield per plant, while ‘HA-292’ exhibited positive GCA for head diameter. The accessions with higher values for confectionary traits and positive general combining ability effects for yield related traits may be further exploited in confectionary sunflower breeding programs as parents.

Pressure never sucks, pressure only pushes: a physiological exploration of the pushing power of pressure.

The movement of air into and out of the lungs is facilitated by changes in pressure within the thoracic cavity relative to atmospheric pressure, as well as the resistance encountered by airways. In this process, the movement of air into and out of the lungs is driven by pressure gradients established by changes in lung volume and intra-alveolar pressure. However, pressure never sucks! The concept that pressure never sucks, pressure only pushes encapsulates a fundamental principle in the behavior of gases. This concept challenges common misconceptions about pressure, shedding light on the dynamic forces that govern the movement of gases. In this Illumination, we explore the essence of this concept and its applications in pulmonary ventilation. Pressure is one of the most important concepts in physics and physiology. Atmospheric pressure at sea level is equal to 1 atmosphere or around 101,325 Pascal [Pa (1 Pa = 1 N/m2)]. This huge pressure is pushing down on everything all the time. However, this pressure is difficult to understand because we do not often observe the power of this incredible force. We used five readily available, simple, and inexpensive demonstrations to introduce the physics and power of pressure. This extraordinarily complex physics concept was approached in a straightforward and inexpensive manner while still providing an understanding of the fundamental concepts. These simple demonstrations introduced basic concepts and addressed common misconceptions about pressure.NEW & NOTEWORTHY The concept that pressure never sucks, pressure only pushes challenges common misconceptions about pressure, shedding light on the dynamic forces that govern the movement of gases. In this Illumination, we will explore the essence of this concept and its applications in pulmonary ventilation. Specifically, we used five readily available, simple, inexpensive demonstrations to introduce the physics and power of pressure.

Asymptotic analysis of geometrically nonlinear beam vibrations: Kirchhoff and Bolotin equations

AbstractThe paper analyzes various approximate models of geometrically nonlinear vibrations of a beam. In practice, simplified equations are often based on the quasi‐static Kirchhoff hypothesis—neglecting axial inertia. This hypothesis is justified with the prescribed end‐displacements of the beam in the axial direction. Under dead loading, quasi‐static Kirchhoff hypothesis results in a linear equation. The corresponding approximate equations obtained in this paper are based on the asymptotic procedure. The ratio of bending stiffness to reduced tensile/compressive stiffness is taken as a small parameter. Axial inertia is taken into account in the equation of the first approximation. Introduced by V.V. Bolotin concept “nonlinear inertia” is discussed. The most common errors in using the quasi‐static Kirchhoff hypothesis are analyzed.