bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Malignant development of proliferative verrucous/multifocal leukoplakia: A critical systematic review, meta‐analysis and proposal of diagnostic criteria
Authors: Lafuente Ibáñez de Mendoza Irene , Lorenzo Pouso Alejandro I. , Aguirre Urízar José M. , Barba Montero Catalina , Blanco Carrión Andrés , Gándara Vila Pilar , Pérez Sayáns Mario
Published: September 2021

Background

Proliferative verrucous/multifocal leukoplakia (PVML) is an oral potentially malignant disorder (OPMD) that exhibits high rates of malignant development (MD). This study aimed to analyse the risk of MD of PVML, as well as to investigate the possible risk factors associated with its malignization.

Methods

A bibliographical search of the PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus databases was conducted. PVML MD rates were calculated as a pooled proportion, and the risk factors were calculated as risk ratios, using fixed and random models based on the presence of heterogeneity.

Results

From a total of 417 records, 16 articles were retrieved for inclusion. The subgroup analysis revealed a higher MD rate in the studies that were conducted in America, and, likewise, said studies involved a longer follow‐up time (>6 years). There was a non‐significant lower risk of malignization among males. A negative correlation was observed between MD and the year in which the studies were published.

Conclusions

The pooled MD of PVML was 65.8% (95% CI: 55.3–76.2, p < 0.001). Prospective studies of PVML must be designed using simple and universal clinical diagnostic criteria to be able to make an early diagnosis of this important OPMD and acknowledge the frequency of MD.
Whole egg powder makes nutritious diet more affordable for Ethiopia: A cost of the diet and affordability analysis
Authors: Baye Kaleab , Abera Andinet , Chitekwe Stanley , Getachew Paulos , Hailemariam Abebe , Dibari Filippo , Laillou Arnaud
Published: September 2021

Despite sustained nutrition education, consumption of animal source foods (ASFs) has been hindered by their low availability, accessibility and affordability. Drying eggs into powder can reduce transport/storage costs, increase shelf‐life and allow easier dosage for use of smaller portions. This study aimed to evaluate the contribution of integrating egg powder to the nutrient adequacy and affordability of diets. Using the ‘cost of the diet’ analysis, we simulated the incorporation of egg powder into households' and children's diet and evaluated its contribution to the nutrient adequacy and affordability of diets. Analysis of the household consumption and expenditure survey (HCES 2016) revealed that only 0.2% of the total consumption expenditure was allocated for eggs, far below the 2.2% and 4.3% required to allow the consumption of one egg a day by the average and the poorest households, respectively. However, the minimum‐cost nutritious diet required only 2.5 g of egg powder/person/day to reduce the cost of the optimized diet by 14% (0–24%), allowing an additional 1.2 million households (~4–6 million individuals) afford the optimized diet. The optimized diet for a child 6–23 months of age could be afforded by all households, except by those in the poorest wealth quintile. But, free distribution of egg powder to households in the poorest wealth quintile, if supplemented by effective nutrition education, can allow them to afford the minimum‐cost nutritious diet for their 6‐ to 23‐month child. The simple dehydration of egg into egg powder can have a substantial contribution towards increased egg consumption by increasing the affordability of the minimum‐cost nutritious diet.
Walking on two legs: a pathway of Indigenous restoration and reconciliation in fire‐adapted landscapes
Authors: Dickson‐Hoyle Sarah , Ignace Ronald E. , Ignace Marianne B. , Hagerman Shannon M. , Daniels Lori D. , Copes‐Gerbitz Kelsey
Published: September 2021

Worldwide, Indigenous peoples are leading the revitalization of their/our cultures through the restoration of ecosystems in which they are embedded, including in response to increasing “megafires.” Concurrently, growing Indigenous‐led movements are calling for governments to implement Indigenous rights, titles and treaties, and many settler‐colonial governments are committing to reconciliation with Indigenous peoples and to implementing the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Yet, despite growing recognition that just and effective conservation is only possible through partnerships with, or led by, Indigenous peoples, decolonizing approaches to restoration have received insufficient attention. However, reconciliation will be incomplete without Indigenous‐led restoration of Indigenous lands, knowledges, and cultures. In this article, we introduce the concept of “walking on two legs” to guide restoration scientists and practitioners in advancing the interconnected processes of Indigenous‐led restoration and reconciliation in Indigenous territories. As an action‐oriented framework articulated by Secwépemc Elder Ronald E. Ignace, “walking on two legs” seeks to bring Indigenous knowledges into balance with western scientific knowledge in service of upholding an Indigenous stewardship ethic that is embedded in Indigenous ways of relating to land and embodies principles of respect, reciprocity, and responsibility. Grounding this discussion in the context of fire‐adapted ecosystems of western Canada and unceded and traditional Secwépemc territory, Secwepemcúl̓ecw, we argue that walking on two legs, along with principles of reconciliation, offers a pathway to uphold respectful relationships with Indigenous peoples, knowledges, and territories through Indigenous‐led restoration.
Revegetation in Japan overlooks geographical genetic structure of native Artemisia indica var. maximowiczii populations
Authors: Wagatsuma Satoshi , Imanishi Junichi , Suyama Yoshihisa , Matsuo Ayumi , Sato Mitsuhiko P. , Mitsuyuki Chika , Tsunamoto Yoshihiro , Tominaga Tohru , Shimono Yoshiko
Published: September 2021

Although revegetation activities are often accompanied by extensive release of translocated or cultivated individuals into natural communities, their potential effects on native populations are relatively unclear. Understanding the original genetic structures in natural habitats and how the patterns have been maintained in populations at revegetation sites is a critical first step in assessing current revegetation efforts. Artemisia indica var. maximowiczii is a native species commonly used for revegetation in Japan. We assessed the genetic and morphological variations in individuals collected from natural habitats and revegetation sites across Japan, as well as individuals have grown from two types of commercial seeds from China used for revegetation: imported seeds that originated from Chinese populations and reimported seeds that originated from Japanese populations but were cultivated in China. Genome‐wide single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) data revealed that individuals collected from natural habitats were genetically differentiated between northeastern and southwestern regions in Japan. Individuals grown from the reimported seeds were genetically similar to the northeastern populations in Japan, suggesting their original sources were areas in the northeast. Most individuals collected from revegetation sites were genetically similar to individuals from the reimported seeds, even though the revegetation sites were in southwestern Japan, suggesting that seeds derived from the northeastern populations were used for revegetation throughout Japan. Individuals grown from the imported seeds that originated from China were genetically and morphologically differentiated from native individuals in Japan. Careful consideration should be given to the extensive use of non‐local seeds for revegetation that is sourced only from northeastern Japan or foreign countries.
The impact of daytime napping on athletic performance – A narrative review
Authors: Botonis Petros G. , Koutouvakis Nickos , Toubekis Argyris G.
Published: September 2021

Mid‐day napping has been recommended as a countermeasure against sleep debt and an effective method for recovery, regardless of nocturnal sleep duration. Herein, we summarize the available evidence regarding the influence of napping on exercise and cognitive performance as well as the effects of napping on athletes’ perceptual responses prior to or during exercise. The existing studies investigating the influence of napping on athletic performance have revealed equivocal results. Prevailing findings indicate that following a normal sleep night or after a night of sleep loss, a mid‐day nap may enhance or restore several exercise and cognitive performance aspects, while concomitantly provide benefits on athletes’ perceptual responses. Most, but not all, findings suggest that compared to short‐term naps (20–30 min), long‐term ones (>35–90 min) appear to provide superior benefits to the athletes. The underlying mechanisms behind athletic performance enhancement following a night of normal sleep or the restoration after a night of sleep loss are not clear yet. However, the absence of benefits or even the deterioration of performance following napping in some studies is likely the result of sleep inertia. The present review sheds light on the predisposing factors that influence the post‐nap outcome, such as nocturnal sleep time, mid‐day nap duration and the time elapsed between the end of napping and the subsequent testing, discusses practical solutions and stimulates further research on this area.
Return to competitive gymnastics training in the UK following the first COVID‐19 national lockdown
Authors: Patel Tejal Sarika , McGregor Alex , Cumming Sean P. , Williams Karen , Williams Sean
Published: September 2021

Following the outbreak of COVID‐19 (coronavirus), the UK entered a national lockdown, and all sport was suspended. The study aimed to explore the process of returning to gymnastics training after several months away from the gym, with a particular interest towards training load and injury. Twenty‐six, national programmed gymnasts from Men's artistic, Women's artistic and Trampoline gymnastics recorded training load and injury whilst returning to training. At the end of data collection, three coaches were interviewed to further explore the experiences and practices of returning to training. Home‐based training during lockdown was seen as beneficial in maintaining a level of fitness. Coaches described a gradual increase in training to reduce the risk of injury, and this partly explains a non‐significant association between training load and a substantial injury (p = 0.441). However, week‐to‐week changes in training load following periods of additional restrictions (additional lockdown, periods of isolation, or substantial restrictions) were not always gradual. There was a significant association between an injury in the preceding week (niggle or substantial injury to a different body part) and a substantial injury in the subsequent week (RR: 5.29, p = 0.011). Monitoring training was described to be a useful practice during the process of returning to training. Coaches believed that although the short‐term development of their gymnasts was affected, the long‐term development would not be impacted from COVID‐19. It is anticipated that learnings from this study can be applied to future practices and situations, particularly when gymnasts are away from the gym for an extended period.
Large‐scale detection and quantification of harmful soil compaction in a post‐mining landscape using multi‐configuration electromagnetic induction
Authors: Schmäck Jessica , Weihermüller Lutz , Klotzsche Anja , von Hebel Christian , Pätzold Stefan , Welp Gerhard , Vereecken Harry
Published: September 2021

Fast and accurate large‐scale localization and quantification of harmfully compacted soils in recultivated post‐mining landscapes are of particular importance for mining companies and the following farmers. The use of heavy machinery during recultivation imposes soil stress and can cause irreversible subsoil compaction limiting crop growth in the long term. To overcome or guide classical point‐scale methods to determine compaction, fast methods covering large areas are required. In our study, a recultivated field of the Garzweiler mine in North Rhine‐Westphalia, Germany, with known variability in crop performance was intensively studied using non‐invasive electromagnetic induction (EMI) and electrode‐based electrical resistivity tomography (ERT). Additionally, soil bulk density, volumetric soil water content and soil textures were analysed along two transects covering different compaction levels. The results showed that the measured EMI apparent electrical conductivity (ECa) along the transects was highly correlated (R2 > .7 for different dates and depths below 0.3 m) to subsoil bulk density. Finally, the correlations established along the transects were used to predict harmful subsoil compaction within the field, whereby a spatial probabilistic map of zones of harmful compaction was developed. In general, the results revealed the feasibility of using the EMI derived ECa to predict harmful compaction. They can be the basis for quick monitoring of the recultivation process and implementation of necessary melioration to return a well‐structured soil with good water and nutrient accessibility, and rooting depths for increased crop yields to the farmers.
3D sine wave‐like geometry of soft sediment deformation structures: Possible record of the Late Pleistocene seismic activity over the Teisseyre‐Tornquist Zone
Authors: Ninard Krzysztof , Łapcik Piotr , Uchman Alfred , Stachacz Michał
Published: September 2021

Remarkably regular load structures are recognised in the late Vistulian (~15 ka BP) fluvial deposits exposed at the Gołąb site (eastern Poland). A mud layer, sandwiched between non‐deformed sand, exhibits the unusual morphology of a 3D sine wave with parallel crests and troughs. Such structures are reported for the first time, remarkably differing from those previously described as having perfect linearity, which could be caused by horizontal shear affecting previously liquefied sediments or by lateral migration of the sediment liquefaction front. The deformation could be triggered by either seismic shock, loading by flood waters or periglacial processes. Seismicity of the study area is evident which supports the seismogenic hypothesis.
Quantitation of residual D positive red cells in D negative recipients of D positive solid organ transplants
Authors: Rosa Vera , Hazell Matthew
Published: September 2021

Background

Solid organ transplants (SOT) from D positive donors are potentially sensitising events for D negative recipients. For this reason, it is important to quantify the presence of residual D positive red blood cells (RBCs) in the recipient's circulation and calculate the correct dose of prophylactic anti‐D (PAD) required to prevent sensitisation. This is especially important in females of child‐bearing potential where the presence of allo anti‐D can, at worst, cause the death of the fetus in future pregnancies.

Objective

This study aimed to identify the patient characteristics of D positive SOT cases referred to Red Cell Immunohaematology, NHSBT for flow cytometry investigation. This information could indicate improvements required in the current testing methodology, as well as to the calculations used to prescribe PAD for this patient group.

Methods

Samples were investigated using a Beckman Coulter Navios Flow Cytometer using BRAD3–FITC (anti‐D), AEVZ5.3‐FITC (isotype matched negative control) and BIRMA17C‐PE (granulocyte exclusion reagent). Mollison's calculation was used to estimate the dose of PAD required to prevent sensitisation in the D negative recipients. The calculation was adapted to consider the presence of organ donor D positive adult RBCs in the circulation of recipients instead of, larger, fetal RBCs.

Results

Samples from 20 patients, all female, aged 14–53 years (one 2‐year‐old outlier) were referred from 2016 to September 2020. The transplants were—liver (n = 6), kidney (n = 6) and lung (n = 8). D positive cell populations were identified in 11 cases (0.1–8.0 ml); and required PAD (500–1500 IU). From these 20 patients, 10 sent a follow‐up sample, where 8 required PAD top‐up due to the detection of residual D positive cells (0.1–2 ml)—liver (n = 1), kidney (n = 1) and lung transplant (n = 6).

Conclusion

All patients in the study were D negative females, in which 18 were considered by guidelines to be of childbearing potential (2–42 years old) and 2 were >50 years old. Referrals demonstrate an awareness for the correct calculation of PAD to prevent D sensitisation. The sample size is small, but top up requirement in 8/20 of cases demonstrates accurate quantification is clearly needed to ensure the appropriate dose of PAD is provided.
Proteomic analysis of aqueous humor in canine primary angle‐closure glaucoma in American Cocker Spaniel dogs
Authors: Yun Seongjin , Lee Dabin , Kang Seonmi , Kim Dong Wook , Kim Youngsam , Cho Je‐Yoel , Seo Kangmoon
Published: September 2021

Objective

To analyze proteomic profiles of the aqueous humor (AH) of canines with primary angle‐closure glaucoma (PACG) and identify associated protein alterations.

Animals studied

Six American Cocker Spaniels with PACG and six American Cocker Spaniels without ocular diseases.

Methods

Aqueous humor samples were collected from six American Cocker Spaniels with PACG at Seoul National University, VMTH, and six healthy Cocker Spaniels without ocular disease at Irion Animal Hospital. For the PACG group, AH samples were obtained by anterior chamber paracentesis prior to glaucoma treatment. For the AH control group, AH samples were collected from patients anesthetized for other reasons. Total AH protein concentration was determined by the bicinchoninic acid (BCA) assay. AH protein samples were quantified by liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS). Raw MS spectra were processed using MaxQuant software 30, and the Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis was performed using ClueGO.

Results

The AH protein concentration in the PACG group (10.49 ± 17.98 µg/µl) was significantly higher than that of the control group (0.45 ± 0.11 µg/µl; p < .05). A total of 758 proteins were identified in the AH. Several proteins both significantly increased (n = 69) and decreased (n = 252) in the PACG group compared to those in the control group. GO enrichment analysis showed that the “response to wounding,” “negative regulation of endopeptidase activity,” and “cell growth” pathways were the most enriched terms in the PACG group compared to the control group. The top 5 proteins that were significantly increased in the AH of the PACG group were secreted phosphoprotein 1 (SPP1), peptidoglycan recognition proteins 2 (PGLYRP2), tyrosine 3‐monooxygenase (YWHAE), maltase‐glucoamylase (MGAM), and vimentin (VIM).

Conclusions

Gene Ontology enrichment analysis using the proteomic data showed that proteins and pathways related to inflammation were significantly upregulated in the various stage of PACG. Proteomic analysis of the AH from the PACG may provide valuable insights into PACG pathogenesis.
The significance of the meniscal flounce sign in canine stifle arthroscopy
Authors: Katz Landon R. , Raske Matthew E. , Hulse Don A.
Published: September 2021

Objective

To determine the diagnostic significance of the meniscal flounce sign in association with meniscal tears.

Study design

Prospective cohort study.

Sample population

One hundred and thirty stifles in 120 client‐owned dogs that underwent stifle arthroscopy.

Methods

Identification of a positive or negative meniscal flounce sign was recorded with the presence or absence of meniscal pathology. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, and diagnostic accuracy were calculated.

Results

Eighty‐nine stifles (68.5%) were noted to have a positive meniscal flounce sign. Of these stifles, four were noted to have a meniscal tear, and they were all radial tears. A total of 41 stifles (31.5%) had a negative meniscal flounce. Of these stifles, 38 had a meniscal tear. The sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, and diagnostic accuracy of the meniscal flounce sign for indicating an intact or torn meniscus were 96.6%, 90.5%, 95.5%, 92.7%, and 94.6%, respectively.

Conclusion

A positive meniscal flounce sign was associated with a normal meniscus and the absence of the flounce sign was associated with a meniscal tear.

Clinical significance

Identification of the meniscal flounce sign during stifle arthroscopy is a strong indicator of a normal medial meniscus. The absence of the sign strongly indicates the presence of meniscal pathology.
Partnering to Prosecute War Crimes
Authors: Ciorciari John D.
Published: September 2021

This chapter reviews the potential and pitfalls of hybrid criminal courts that blend national and international laws, procedures, and personnel. It presents a detailed case study of the Special Court for Sierra Leone to illustrate the possibility for a mixed tribunal to perform well and earn public legitimacy when the preferences of national and international partners align reasonably well with one another, and with the aspirations of the general public.
Publications on COVID-19 in High Impact Factor Journals: A Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: López-López Wilson , Salas Gonzalo , Vega-Arce Maribel , Cornejo-Araya Claudia A. , Barboza-Palomino Miguel , Ho Yun-Shan
Published: September 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus has sickened more than six million people worldwide. This context has led to an abundance of publications quickly since the beginning of the outbreak. In a few months, thousands of scientific papers have appeared. This article aims to provide a bibliometric analysis of the publications on COVID-19 in five high-impact journals indexed to the Web of Science Core Collection's Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED) including The Lancet, New England Journal of Medicine, Science, Nature, and JAMA-Journal of the American Medical Association. We found 169 documents associated with the search criteria. The findings indicate that China, the United States, and the United Kingdom are the most represented countries in these publications, The Lancet is the journal with the highest number of contributions with 66% of documents, and the University of Hong Kong leads the ranking of institutions. Future bibliometric and scientometric studies on COVID-19 should provide updated information to analyse other relevant indicators in this field.
Percepción subjetiva de manejo emocional, ansiedad y patrones de ingesta relacionados con aislamiento por COVID-19
Authors: Martínez Rodríguez Tania Yadira , Bernal Gómez Samantha Josefina , Mora Vergara Ana Paola , Hun Gamboa Nelson Eduardo
Published: September 2021

El periodo de aislamiento social se considera un detonante de ansiedad, y genera alteraciones en la forma de alimentarse. El objetivo de esta investigación fue determinar la relación entre la percepción subjetiva del manejo de las emociones y la ansiedad con los patrones disfuncionales de la ingesta en el periodo de aislamiento social por COVID-19, en participantes colombianos. La investigación es exploratoria de tipo transversal analítico. Un total de 450 colombianos mayores de 18 años (sexo: 82 % femenino y 18 % masculino) respondieron un cuestionario virtual sobre la percepción subjetiva del manejo de las emociones y la ansiedad; también, se aplicó el cuestionario de tres factores de alimentación para identificar patrones disfuncionales de la ingesta. Se reportó un riesgo 3 veces mayor de presentar ansiedad en las personas que manifestaron un manejo inadecuado de sus emociones. Asimismo, aquellos cuya percepción fue un inadecuado manejo de emociones y ansiedad presentaron mayor nivel de patrones disfuncionales de ingesta como la desinhibición (p < 0.0001) e ingesta emocional (p < 0.0001). Se concluyó que la percepción subjetiva del manejo inadecuado de las emociones y de ansiedad, incrementan la ingesta emocional y la desinhibición, en colombianos en aislamiento social.
Status, Challenges, and Potential for Machine Learning in Understanding and Applying Heat Transfer Phenomena
Authors: Hughes Matthew T. , Kini Girish , Garimella Srinivas
Published: September 2021

Machine learning (ML) offers a variety of techniques to understand many complex problems in different fields. The field of heat transfer, and thermal systems in general, are governed by complicated sets of physics that can be made tractable by reduced-order modeling and by extracting simple trends from measured data. Therefore, ML algorithms can yield computationally efficient models for more accurate predictions or to generate robust optimization frameworks. This study reviews past and present efforts that use ML techniques in heat transfer from the fundamental level to full-scale applications, including the use of ML to build reduced-order models, predict heat transfer coefficients and pressure drop, perform real-time analysis of complex experimental data, and optimize large-scale thermal systems in a variety of applications. The appropriateness of different data-driven ML models in heat transfer problems is discussed. Finally, some of the imminent opportunities and challenges that the heat transfer community faces in this exciting and rapidly growing field are identified.
Development and Evaluation of a Prosthetic Ankle Emulator With an Artificial Soleus and Gastrocnemius
Authors: Ziemnicki David M. , Caputo Joshua M. , McDonald Kirsty A. , Zelik Karl E.
Published: September 2021

In individuals with transtibial limb loss, a contributing factor to mobility-related challenges is the disruption of biological calf muscle function due to transection of the soleus and gastrocnemius. Powered prosthetic ankles can restore primary function of the mono-articular soleus muscle, which contributes to ankle plantarflexion. In effect, a powered ankle acts like an artificial soleus (AS). However, the biarticular gastrocnemius connection that simultaneously contributes to ankle plantarflexion and knee flexion torques remains missing, and there are currently no commercially available prosthetic ankles that incorporate an artificial gastrocnemius (AG). The goal of this work is to describe the design of a novel emulator capable of independently controlling artificial soleus and gastrocnemius behaviors for transtibial prosthesis users during walking. To evaluate the emulator's efficacy in controlling the artificial gastrocnemius behaviors, a case series walking study was conducted with four transtibial prosthesis users. Data from this case series showed that the emulator exhibits low resistance to the user's leg swing, low hysteresis during passive spring emulation, and accurate force tracking for a range of artificial soleus and gastrocnemius behaviors. The emulator presented in this paper is versatile and can facilitate experiments studying the effects of various artificial soleus and gastrocnemius dynamics on gait or other movement tasks. Using this system, it is possible to address existing knowledge gaps and explore a wide range of artificial soleus and gastrocnemius behaviors during gait and potentially other activities of daily living.
The Effect of Uneven Heating on the Flow Distribution Between Parallel Microchannels Undergoing Boiling
Authors: Miglani Ankur , Soto Anali , Weibel Justin A. , Garimella Suresh V.
Published: September 2021

As the size, weight, and performance requirements of electronic devices grow increasingly demanding, their packaging has become more compact. As a result of thinning or removing the intermediate heat spreading layers, nonuniform heat generation from the chip-scale and component-level variations may be imposed directly on the attached microchannel heat sink. Despite the important heat transfer performance implications, the effect of uneven heating on the flow distribution in parallel microchannels undergoing boiling has been largely unexplored. In this study, a two-phase flow distribution model is used to investigate the impact of uneven heating on the flow distribution behavior of parallel microchannels undergoing boiling. Under lateral uneven heating (i.e., the channels are each heated to different levels, but the power input is uniform along the length of any given channel), it is found that the flow is significantly more maldistributed compared to the even heating condition. Specifically, the range of total flow rates over which the flow is maldistributed is broader and the maximum severity of flow maldistribution is higher. These trends are assessed as a function of the total input power, degree of uneven heating, and the extent of thermal connectedness between the channels. The model predictions are validated against experiments for a representative case of thermally isolated and coupled channels subjected to even heating and extreme lateral uneven heating conditions and show excellent agreement.
Effect of Wavy Wall and Plate Bifurcations on Heat Transfer Enhancement in Microchannel
Authors: Sathish Kumar D. , Jayavel S.
Published: September 2021

Miniaturization of electronic components requires compact and effective cooling techniques to dissipate large heat flux without a significant increase in pumping power. Microchannel heat sink with liquid as working fluid is a suitable technique for the purpose. In this study, heat transfer characteristics in presence of vertical bifurcation placed downstream of the microchannel passage are studied numerically. Six types of bifurcating plates are considered under two categories: (i) thick-plate and (ii) wavy thin-wall. Water is taken as the working fluid and the flow rate has been varied in the Reynolds number range, 100 ≤ Re ≤ 1000. The effect of bifurcations on pressure drop, heat transfer, and the overall thermal resistance are analyzed and compared with those of plane microchannel without bifurcation. The numerical results show that the usage of bifurcation in the microchannel reduces the overall thermal resistance. Field synergy number, entropy generation number, and hydrothermal performance index are calculated to quantify the overall performance improvement in the microchannel with bifurcations. Constant wavy thin-wall bifurcation has been found to improve the overall performance of the microchannel. The detailed geometry of the bifurcation, the resulting convective heat transfer characteristics, and percentage improvement in the performance are reported.
Lunar astrometry
Authors: Sirola Christopher
Published: September 2021

A question for science teachers during the pandemic is: how do we actively engage students in science, given that in-person instruction will be limited at best? One lesson I use for my solar system course involves naked-eye observations of positions of celestial objects. Such activities train students to take careful measurements, keep detailed records, and comprehend three-dimensional coordinates.
Smartphones and the Acoustic Doppler Effect in High School
Authors: Soares Antonio Augusto , Henrique Ricardo Longhi
Published: September 2021

Experiments using smartphones allow for teaching physics concepts in a fun and engaging way and including interdisciplinary approaches. The exploratory character of the experimental activities, along with the smartphones’ embedded technologies, when applied in the high school classroom, also has the potential to awake the students’ intrinsic motivation, contributing to more meaningful learning. Here, using two smartphones running free apps and a personal computer for data analysis, we present an experiment proposal to quantitatively study the acoustic Doppler effect in secondary schools. One of the smartphones acts as the sound source (SS) emitting a wave signal in a frequency range audible to the human being. The other one acts as the sound receiver (SR). We measured the Doppler frequency due to the relative movement between the smartphones and got good results with this frequency deviating about 1% from that one emitted by SS. This amount is large enough to be detected by SR and allows the teacher, quantitatively, to explain the physical phenomenon to the students.
Hydraulic Analogues Illustrating the Charging of a Capacitor and Ohm’s Law: Labs for Online Learning Environments
Authors: Bobowski Jake Stanley
Published: September 2021

Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, academic institutions across the globe have been forced to move to online learning environments. It has been particularly challenging for the experimental sciences to develop and deliver authentic lab-based experiences. Some of the strategies that have been adopted for first-year physics labs include: providing a video demonstration and supplying data for students to analyze, using online simulations, having students construct simple apparatuses using commonly available materials, collecting data with the aid of a smartphone, and, when dealing with smaller class sizes, providing a custom lab kit to each student. Many institutions have chosen to adopt a blend of the various strategies.
Finite element modeling of the effects of velopharyngeal opening on vocal tract reactance in female voice
Authors: Vampola Tomáš , Horáček Jaromír , Laukkanen Anne-Maria
Published: September 2021

Classical singers use nasal consonants as “resonance exercises,” and experimental results have shown that singers may use some velopharyngeal opening (VPO), most often in [a:] and more seldom in [i:] or [u:]. In particular, male singers have been found to increase VPO as pitch rises toward register change frequencies (passaggi). Laryngoscopic findings have shown that some VPO stabilizes vocal fold vibration; the effect is related to positive reactance. This study investigates the effects of VPO on vocal tract (VT) reactance over the range of fundamental frequencies (f0) used in singing using a computerized tomography-based finite element model of the VT and nose of a female. According to the results, by raising the lowest VT resonances, the VPO increased the VT reactance in the frequency ranges 207–359 Hz for [i:], 265–411 Hz for [u:], and 500–611 Hz for [a:], depending on the VPO size (full or half VPO). These frequency ranges are close to the first and second passaggio of a female singer. The change may have an especially practical stabilizing effect for [a:], which is otherwise characterized by very large changes in VT reactance and negative reactance at the second passaggio.
Dead Spaces: Sport Venues and Police Stops in a Major League, Upper Midwestern City in the United States
Authors: Jakar Gidon S. , Gordon Kiernan O.
Published: September 2021

Attention by sport management researchers and practitioners toward the societal externalities of professional sport franchises and venues has increased recently. This study asserts that while sport organizations are very active in this regard, there remain several issues that have not received much attention in the sport management literature nor by sport organizations themselves. Criminal activity, or the perception of criminal activity, at and near sport venues is one of these issues. The negative binominal regression analysis of police stops in Minneapolis revealed that police stops were greater within a quarter and half a mile of Minneapolis professional sport venues on event days. Furthermore, during nonevent days, the venues can be urban “dead spaces” and the design of venues in urban areas should address the internal and external amenities of the sport venues and the potential increase in crime and police-related activity on days with and without events.
Interrater Reliability of an Observational Rating Scale and Video Analysis of Yoga Poses
Authors: Richmond Diane , Castro Kathleen , Rathod Vaibhavi , Dias Thais Medeiros da Costa , Filho Nelson Marinho de Lima , Meer Judith , Rao Smita
Published: September 2021

Context: Yoga is increasingly popular, not only as a form of recreational exercise but also as a physician-recommended intervention for health conditions. While serious adverse effects accompanying yoga practice are rare, poses that involve upper-extremity weight-bearing have a high risk of discomfort. To better understand factors contributing to adverse effects, there is a critical need for robust instruments that objectively evaluate pose performance. The purpose of this study was to assess the interrater reliability of an observational scale developed to assess the alignment of 3 yoga poses. Design: Cross-sectional experimental study. Methods: Thirty-eight individuals were given standardized instructions and performed 3 poses (Downward Dog, Plank, and Side Plank). Lateral videos were rated by 2 raters. A rating scale evaluating the alignment of 7 regions was developed by the study team with input from yoga teachers. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the percentage of subjects showing ideal alignment and deviations. Interrater reliability was quantified using Cohen kappa coefficient (κ). Results: In Downward Dog, the prevalence of ideal alignment was 20%, 28%, and 37%, at the neck, shoulder, and back, respectively; κ ranged from .44 to .69. In Plank, the prevalence of ideal alignment was 31%, 45%, and 54% at the neck, shoulder, and back, respectively; κ ranged from .47 to .95. In Side Plank, the prevalence of ideal alignment was 16, 41%, and 24%, at the neck, shoulder, and back, respectively; κ ranged from .20 to .84. Conclusion: The observational scale found a high prevalence of deviations, and demonstrated fair to substantial interrater agreement.
Modulus of Elasticity of Elastic Tubes Used in Neuromuscular Rehabilitation Programs
Authors: Reis Andrea Lucena , Reis Thaís Lucena , de Aguiar Lucas Soares , Reis José de Jesus Soares , Reis Thiago Lucena , Deus Lysleine Alves , Neves Rodrigo Vanerson Passos , Corrêa Hugo de Luca , Honorato Fernando Sousa , de Araújo Thais Branquinho , Silva Victor Lopes , Ide Bernardo Neme , Rosa Thiago Santos
Published: September 2021

Context: The elastic tubes have been used for clinical rehabilitation programs in which exercises are performed with submaximal intensities due to the difficulty in the measure the applied force. The authors aimed to quantify the elastic constant of elastic tubes used in neuromuscular rehabilitation programs predicting the force related to elastic tube elongation. A force test was performed by stretching the elastic tubes to determine the relationship between force and elongation. Eight elastic tubes with progressive levels of resistance represented by colors (yellow, red, blue, gray, black, grape, purple, and gold—low to higher resistance) were used. Design: Experimental. Methods: The test and retest were compared using the paired t test. The agreement and reliability between the test versus retest of pooled means colors were analyzed by plotting the Bland–Altman graph and intraclass correlation coefficient and the coefficient of variation. Pearson correlation was used to verify the validity between measurements. Results: The force values generated from the elastic tube elongation increase according to the color and thickness of elastic tubes with a strong and significant association between them (P < .0001). The elastic constant measurements were similar and presented high intraclass correlation coefficient values, low coefficient of variation values, and were reproducible (P < .0001). Conclusions: The force could be quantified according to elastic tube length variation by the linear regression equation with reproducibility. It gives greater measurement precision and better training load control when using elastic tubes in strength training programs.
Insights from the first global population estimate of Weddell seals in Antarctica
Authors: LaRue Michelle , Salas Leo , Nur Nadav , Ainley David , Stammerjohn Sharon , Pennycook Jean , Dozier Melissa , Saints Jon , Stamatiou Kostas , Barrington Luke , Rotella Jay
Published: September 2021

Weddell seal populations around the Antarctic coastline vary regionally, and habitat is associated with proximity to penguins.
The origin and legacy of the Etruscans through a 2000-year archeogenomic time transect
Authors: Posth Cosimo , Zaro Valentina , Spyrou Maria A. , Vai Stefania , Gnecchi-Ruscone Guido A. , Modi Alessandra , Peltzer Alexander , Mötsch Angela , Nägele Kathrin , Vågene Åshild J. , Nelson Elizabeth A. , Radzevičiūtė Rita , Freund Cäcilia , Bondioli Lorenzo M. , Cappuccini Luca , Frenzel Hannah , Pacciani Elsa , Boschin Francesco , Capecchi Giulia , Martini Ivan , Moroni Adriana , Ricci Stefano , Sperduti Alessandra , Turchetti Maria Angela , Riga Alessandro , Zavattaro Monica , Zifferero Andrea , Heyne Henrike O. , Fernández-Domínguez Eva , Kroonen Guus J. , McCormick Michael , Haak Wolfgang , Lari Martina , Barbujani Guido , Bondioli Luca , Bos Kirsten I. , Caramelli David , Krause Johannes
Published: September 2021

Steppe ancestry among the non–Indo-European–speaking Etruscans challenges previous hypotheses on their recent Anatolian origin.
Atypical presentation of subdural block resulting in Horner’s syndrome and loss of consciousness
Authors: Chua Katherine Jane , Cernadas Maureen
Published: September 2021

Horner’s syndrome is a rare side effect for patients receiving epidural anaesthesia. Studies described Horner’s syndrome due to cephalic spread of injected anaesthetics, a high spinal anaesthesia, or a sign of an inadvertent subdural block. A 31-year-old woman (Gravida 1 Para 0) at 40 weeks and 2 days had a caesarean section secondary to second stage arrest. Fourteen minutes after she received the lidocaine bolus, she became unresponsive with nystagmus, unequal pupils and no pupillary reflex. Head CT and MRI showed no intracranial haemorrhage and 2 hours later, she had spontaneous resolution of neurological symptoms with no further sequelae. Although Horner’s syndrome is a benign, transient process, clinicians should be mindful regarding epidural catheter placement causing subdural blocks resulting in spontaneous, reversible neurological deficits.
Morphological characteristics of eyes with neovascular age-related macular degeneration and good long-term visual outcomes after anti-VEGF therapy
Authors: Fang Mengyuan , Chanwimol Karntida , Maram Jyotsna , Datoo O'Keefe Ghazala A , Wykoff Charles C , Sarraf David , Brown A’sha , Lampen Shaun Ian Retief , Zhou Brenda , Rusakevich Alexander M , Sadda SriniVas
Published: September 2021

Purpose

To analyse the morphological characteristics of eyes with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD) with good long-term visual acuity after anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) therapy.

Methods

Retrospective, observational study of 175 patients with neovascular AMD with >5 years of follow-up after initiating anti-VEGF therapy. Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography images were assessed for thickness of pigment epithelial detachment (PED), subretinal hyper-reflective material (SHRM), subretinal fluid and subfoveal choroidal, as well as the integrity of the outer retinal bands.

Results

The final analysis cohort included 203 eyes (175 patients) followed for a mean of 7.84±1.70 years (range: 5–11). The maximum PED thickness in the foveal central subfield (FCS) was significantly lower (p<0.001) in the poor vision group (13.11 μm) compared with the intermediate (86.25 μm) or good (97.92 μm) vision groups, respectively. In contrast, the maximum thickness of SHRM in the FCS was significantly thicker (p<0.001) in eyes with poor vision (149.46 μm) compared with eyes with intermediate vision (64.37 μm) which in turn were significantly thicker (p<0.001) than eyes with good vision (9.35 μm). The good vision group also had better continuity of all outer retinal bands (external limiting membrane, ellipsoid zone, and retinal pigment epithelium) compared with the other two groups (all p<0.001).

Conclusion

A thicker PED and thinner SHRM were correlated with better vision in eyes with neovascular AMD following long-term anti-VEGF therapy. If replicated in future prospective studies, these findings may have implications for design of optimal anatomic endpoints for neovascular AMD treatment.
How to discriminate non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cases from an Italian administrative database? A retrospective, secondary data use study for evaluating a novel algorithm performance
Authors: Balzi William , Roncadori Andrea , Danesi Valentina , Massa Ilaria , Manunta Silvia , Gentili Nicola , Delmonte Angelo , Crinò Lucio , Altini Mattia
Published: September 2021

Objectives

To evaluate an algorithm developed for identifying non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) candidates among patients with lung cancer with a diagnosis International Classification of Diseases: ninth revision (ICD-9) 162.x code in administrative databases. Algorithm could then be applied for identifying the NSCLC population in order to assess the appropriateness and quality of care of the NSCLC care pathway.

Design

Algorithm discrimination capacity to select both NSCLC or non-NSCLC was carried out on a sample for which electronic health record (EHR) diagnosis was available. A bivariate frequency distribution and other measures were used to evaluate algorithm’s performances. Associations between possible factors potentially affecting algorithm accuracy were investigated.

Setting

Administrative databases used in a specific geographical area of Emilia-Romagna region, Italy.

Participants

Algorithm was carried out on patients aged >18 years, with a lung cancer diagnosis from January to December 2017 and resident in Emilia-Romagna region who have been hospitalised at IRST or in one of the hospitals placed in the Forlì-Cesena area and for which EHR diagnosis data were available.

Outcome measures

Overall accuracy, positive (PPV) and negative (NPV) predictive values, sensitivity and specificity, positive and negative likelihood ratios and diagnostic OR were calculated.

Results

A total of 430 patients were identified as lung cancer cases based on ICD-9 diagnosis. Focusing on the total incident cases (n=314), the algorithm had an overall accuracy of 82.8% with a sensitivity of 88.8%. The analysis confirmed a high level of PPV (90.2%), but lower specificity (53.7%) and NPV (50%). Higher length of stay seemed to be associated with a correct classification. Hospitalisation regimen and a supply of antiblastic therapy seemed to increase the level of PPV.

Conclusion

The algorithm demonstrated a strong validity for identifying NSCLC among patients with lung cancer in hospital administrative databases and can be used to investigate the quality of cancer care for this population.

Trial registration number

NCT04676321.
Predictors of unrecognised comorbid depression in patients with schizophrenia at Amanuel mental specialized hospital, Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Ayalew Mohammed , Reta Yared , Defar Semira
Published: September 2021

Background

The occurrence of depression in patients with schizophrenia (PWS) increases the risk of relapse, frequency and duration of hospitalisation, and decreases social and occupational functioning.

Objective

This study aimed to assess prevalence of unrecognised comorbid depression and its determinants in PWS.

Method

A cross-sectional study was conducted from 1 to 30 March 2019 at Amanuel mental specialized hospital among 300 PWS. The 9-item Calgary Depression Scale for Schizophrenia was used to assess comorbid depression. Logistic regression was used to determine the association between outcome and explanatory variables. Statistical significance was declared at p value <0.05 with 95% CI.

Results

The prevalence of unrecognised comorbid depression was found to be 30.3%. Living alone (adjusted OR (AOR)=3.49, 95% CI=0.45 to 8.36), having poor (AOR=4.43, 95% CI=1.45 to 13.58) and moderate (AOR=4.45, 95% CI=1.30 to 15.22) social support, non-adherence to medication (AOR=3.82, 95% CI=1.70 to 8.55), presenting with current negative symptoms such as asocialia (AOR=4.33, 95% CI=1.98 to 9.45) and loss of personal motivation (AOR=3.46, 95% CI=1.53 to 7.84), and having suicidal behaviour (AOR=6.83, 95% CI=3.24 to 14.41) were the significant predictors of comorbid depression in PWS.

Conclusion

This study revealed considerably a high prevalence of unrecognised comorbid depression among PWS. Therefore, clinicians consider timely screening and treating of comorbid depression in PWS.