bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Occupational and Leisure-Time Physical Activities on Insomnia in Korean Firefighters
Authors: Lim Myeongseob , Jeong Kyoung Sook , Oh Sung-Soo , Koh Sang-Baek , Chang Sei-Jin , Ahn Yeon-Soon
Published: July 2020

Studies have been conducted on the association between physical activity (PA) and sleep, but to the best of our knowledge, a simultaneous analysis of the effects of occupational PA (OPA) and leisure time PA (LTPA) on South Korean firefighters’ sleep has never been conducted. This study aims to analyze how OPA and LTPA affect these individuals’ risk of suffering from insomnia with-in this specific population of subjects. The study includes data from an online self-report survey in which 9788 South Korean firefighters participated. The survey used the Insomnia Severity Index and the OPA- and LTPA-related characteristics were investigated. The independent two-sample t-test, χ2 test, and multiple logistic regression analysis were performed. Subgroup logistic regression analyses were also completed in accordance with the OPA level. Among 9788 participants, 890 (9.1%) suffered from insomnia. A logistic regression analysis revealed that higher levels of feeling of job loading (FoJL), rising levels of physical strength utilization rate (PSUR), greater frequency levels of occupational activities, and high-intensity LTPA were significantly correlated with an increased risk of insomnia, while execution of LTPA and getting enough rest after LTPA was correlated with a decreased risk. However, the subgroup analysis showed that high-intensity LTPA was correlated with a significantly increased the risk in the group with high OPA, but this did not apply to the group with low OPA. Although the risk of suffering from insomnia was overall significantly higher in the high OPA group, the risk was significantly lower in groups getting enough rest after partaking in LTPA, regardless of the OPA level. Thus, the intensity of exercise programs pre-scribed to groups with high OPA and individuals with higher risks of suffering from insomnia, such as firefighters, police officers, and soldiers, should be considered.
From Historical Narratives to Circular Economy: De-Complexifying the “Desertification” Debate
Authors: Halbac-Cotoara-Zamfir Rares , Colantoni Andrea , Mosconi Enrico Maria , Poponi Stefano , Fortunati Simona , Salvati Luca , Gambella Filippo
Published: July 2020

Assuming the importance of a “socioeconomic mosaic” influencing soil and land degradation at the landscape scale, spatial contexts should be considered in the analysis of desertification risk as a base for the design of appropriate counteracting strategies. A holistic approach grounded on a multi-scale qualitative and quantitative assessment is required to identify optimal development strategies regulating the socioeconomic dimensions of land degradation. In the last few decades, the operational thinking at the base of a comprehensive, holistic theory of land degradation evolved toward many different conceptual steps. Moving from empirical, qualitative and unstructured frameworks to a more structured, rational and articulated thinking, such theoretical approaches have been usually oriented toward complex and non-linear dynamics benefiting from progressive and refined approximations. Based on these premises, eleven disciplinary approaches were identified and commented extensively on in the present study, and were classified along a gradient of increasing complexity, from more qualitative and de-structured frameworks to more articulated, non-linear thinking aimed at interpreting the intrinsic fragmentation and heterogeneity of environmental and socioeconomic processes underlying land degradation. Identifying, reviewing and classifying such approaches demonstrated that the evolution of global thinking in land degradation was intimately non-linear, developing narrative and deductive approaches together with inferential, experimentally oriented visions. Focusing specifically on advanced economies in the world, our review contributes to systematize multiple—sometimes entropic—interpretations of desertification processes into a more organized framework, giving value to methodological interplays and specific interpretations of the latent processes underlying land degradation.
Characterizing Urban Home Gardening and Associated Factors to Shape Fruit and Vegetable Consumption among Non-Farmers in Thailand
Authors: Phulkerd Sirinya , Thapsuwan Sasinee , Soottipong Gray Rossarin , Chamratrithirong Aphichat
Published: July 2020

The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between home gardening and sufficient fruit and vegetable (FV) intake among non-farmers in Thailand, and examine the influence of socio-demographic characteristics and other associated factors on home gardening among non-farmers in urban areas. Data were collected by a cross-sectional survey of a sample of Thai non-farmers (N = 5634). Information on self-reported home gardening, FV intake, health-related behaviors, and socio-demographic characteristics was collected via questionnaire. The findings show that home gardening is significantly associated with sufficient FV intake among non-farmers (p < 0.001). Within the non-farmer group who lived in urban areas, 9% gardened FV at home. Home gardening was significantly associated with socio-demographic characteristics (sex, age and occupation), physical activity, fear of pesticide contamination of FV, and FV safety awareness among the urban non-farmers. Respondents who were female, in the middle-adulthood group, practiced regular physical activity, feared pesticide contamination, and had high awareness of FV safety had the highest probability of gardening at home (p < 0.05, p < 0.001, p < 0.01, p < 0.001 and p < 0.05, respectively). The Thai government should pay more attention to factors that influence urban home gardening by providing support, building local capacity, and implementing effective interventions with the urban population.
Evaluating the Implementation and Effectiveness of the SWITCH–MS: An Ecological, Multi-Component Adolescent Obesity Prevention Intervention
Authors: Chen Senlin , Rosenkranz Richard R. , McLoughlin Gabriella M. , Vazou Spyridoula , Lanningham-Foster Lorraine , Gentile Douglas A. , Dzewaltowski David A.
Published: July 2020

Background: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the implementation and effectiveness of an ecological, multi-component adolescent obesity prevention intervention called School Wellness Integration Targeting Child Health–Middle School (SWITCH–MS). Methods: Following the effectiveness-implementation hybrid type 3 quasi-experimental design, seven middle schools (377 students) in Iowa, United States, were stratified into “experienced” (n = 3; 110 students) or “inexperienced” (n = 4; 267 students) groups to receive the 12-week SWITCH–MS intervention. To evaluate implementation, school informants (n = 10) responded to a survey and students completed behavioral tracking in the classroom on a website. For effectiveness evaluation, students in 6th, 7th, and 8th grades completed a validated questionnaire before and after intervention, to measure behaviors of physical activity (PA; “Do”), screen-based activity (“View”), and fruits and vegetable consumption (“Chew”). Results: The two groups of schools showed similar levels of implementation for best practices, awareness, and engagement. Behavioral tracking rate favored the experienced schools early on (47.5% vs. 11.7%), but differences leveled off in weeks 3–12 (sustained at 30.1–44.3%). Linear mixed models demonstrated significant time effects for “Do” (at school and out of school; p < 0.01) and “View” behaviors (p = 0.02), after controlling for student- and school-level covariates. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that prior experience with SWITCH–MS may not be a prominent factor for implementation and effectiveness, although greater experience is associated with favorable behavioral tracking when the intervention is first launched.
Harbor and Intra-City Drivers of Air Pollution: Findings from a Land Use Regression Model, Durban, South Africa
Authors: Tularam Hasheel , Ramsay Lisa F. , Muttoo Sheena , Naidoo Rajen N. , Brunekreef Bert , Meliefste Kees , de Hoogh Kees
Published: July 2020

Multiple land use regression models (LUR) were developed for different air pollutants to characterize exposure, in the Durban metropolitan area, South Africa. Based on the European Study of Cohorts for Air Pollution Effects (ESCAPE) methodology, concentrations of particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), sulphur dioxide (SO2), and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) were measured over a 1-year period, at 41 sites, with Ogawa Badges and 21 sites with PM Monitors. Sampling was undertaken in two regions of the city of Durban, South Africa, one with high levels of heavy industry as well as a harbor, and the other small-scale business activity. Air pollution concentrations showed a clear seasonal trend with higher concentrations being measured during winter (25.8, 4.2, 50.4, and 20.9 µg/m3 for NO2, SO2, PM10, and PM2.5, respectively) as compared to summer (10.5, 2.8, 20.5, and 8.5 µg/m3 for NO2, SO2, PM10, and PM2.5, respectively). Furthermore, higher levels of NO2 and SO2 were measured in south Durban as compared to north Durban as these are industrial related pollutants, while higher levels of PM were measured in north Durban as compared to south Durban and can be attributed to either traffic or domestic fuel burning. The LUR NO2 models for annual, summer, and winter explained 56%, 41%, and 63% of the variance with elevation, traffic, population, and Harbor being identified as important predictors. The SO2 models were less robust with lower R2 annual (37%), summer (46%), and winter (46%) with industrial and traffic variables being important predictors. The R2 for PM10 models ranged from 52% to 80% while for PM2.5 models this range was 61–76% with traffic, elevation, population, and urban land use type emerging as predictor variables. While these results demonstrate the influence of industrial and traffic emissions on air pollution concentrations, our study highlighted the importance of a Harbor variable, which may serve as a proxy for NO2 concentrations suggesting the presence of not only ship emissions, but also other sources such as heavy duty motor vehicles associated with the port activities.
Involving the Person with Dementia in Crisis Planning: Focus Groups with Crisis Intervention Teams
Authors: Bosco Alessandro , Schneider Justine , Di Lorito Claudio , Broome Emma , Coleston-Shields Donna Maria , Orrell Martin
Published: July 2020

Dementia leads to progressive critical situations that can escalate to a crisis episode if not adequately managed. A crisis may also resolve spontaneously, or not resolve after receiving professional support. Because of the intensity of the crisis, the extent to which the person engages in decision making for their own care is often decreased. In UK mental health services, ‘crisis teams’ work to avert the breakdown of support arrangements and to avoid admissions to hospital or long-term care where possible. This study aimed to explore the views of crisis teams about promoting the involvement of the person with dementia in decision-making at all points in the care pathway, here defined as co-production. The staff of crisis teams from three NHS Trusts in the UK were interviewed through focus groups. Data were analysed using framework analysis. Three focus groups were run with 22 staff members. Data clustered around strategies used to promote the active involvement of the person with dementia, and the challenges experienced when delivering the care. Staff members reported that achieving a therapeutic relationship was fundamental to successful co-production. Miscommunication and/or lack of proper contact between the team and the individuals and carers receiving support adversely affected the quality of care. Making service users aware of the support provided by crisis teams before they need this may help promote a positive therapeutic relationship and effective care management.
Analyzing Spanish News Frames on Twitter during COVID-19—A Network Study of El País and El Mundo
Authors: Yu Jingyuan , Lu Yanqin , Muñoz-Justicia Juan
Published: July 2020

While COVID-19 is becoming one of the most severe public health crises in the twenty-first century, media coverage about this pandemic is getting more important than ever to make people informed. Drawing on data scraped from Twitter, this study aims to analyze and compare the news updates of two main Spanish newspapers El País and El Mundo during the pandemic. Throughout an automatic process of topic modeling and network analysis methods, this study identifies eight news frames for each newspaper’s Twitter account. Furthermore, the whole pandemic development process is split into three periods—the pre-crisis period, the lockdown period and the recovery period. The networks of the computed frames are visualized by these three segments. This paper contributes to the understanding of how Spanish news media cover public health crises on social media platforms.
Adolescent Endorsement of the “Weak-Not-Sick” Stereotype for Generalised Anxiety Disorder: Associations with Prejudice, Discrimination, and Help-Giving Intentions toward Peers
Authors: Hanlon Holly R. , Swords Lorraine
Published: July 2020

Stigma, comprising negative stereotypes, prejudice (negative affective reactions) and discrimination towards a member of a particular group, is of increasing interest in the context of mental illness. However, studies examining clinical anxiety stigma are lacking, particularly with regard to generalised anxiety disorder (GAD). There is also a lack of research into adolescent anxiety stigma, despite adolescence being a key period for early intervention for anxiety disorders, and research showing that stigma has been implicated in low rates of help-seeking and problematic peer relationships among adolescents with mental illness. Stigma has also been negatively associated with help-giving responses toward those with mental illness. Initial studies suggest that the ‘weak-not-sick’ (WNS) stereotype may be central to anxiety stigma. The present study aims to examine the endorsement of the WNS stereotype in the context of GAD, and its relationship to prejudice, discrimination, and help-giving responses among adolescents. A vignette-based survey measure was completed by 242 adolescents (74 male, 165 female, and three participants who recorded their gender as “other”) in Ireland aged between 15 and 19 years. The results of the study found that endorsement of the WNS stereotype was significantly associated with higher prejudice and discrimination, as well as lower levels of help-giving intentions. A multiple mediator model is presented showing both a direct relationship between endorsement of WNS and help-giving, and an indirect relationship between WNS and help-giving mediated by the prejudicial components of anger, fear and pity, and discrimination as assessed by desired social distance. This study adds to the limited knowledge base on stigma towards GAD in adolescents and provides a model for how anxiety stigma may relate to help-giving. This has implications for interventions to reduce stigmatising and increase help-giving responses.
Sex-Specific Energy Intakes and Physical Activity Levels According to the Presence of Metabolic Syndrome in Korean Elderly People: Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2016–2018
Authors: Jung Won-Sang , Park Hun-Young , Kim Sung-Woo , Lim Kiwon
Published: July 2020

This study aimed to analyze the differences in energy intake and physical activity (PA) levels according to sex and the presence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) among elderly people in Korea. Data of 3720 elderly people (aged >65 years) were obtained from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2016–2018). We analyzed PA levels (occupational and recreational PA) and energy intakes (carbohydrate, protein, and fat). The MetS group showed lower levels of moderate intensity recreational PA and place movement than the non-MetS group (p < 0.05); in the MetS group, PA levels were significantly lower in women than in men (p < 0.05). The intakes of total energy, carbohydrate, fat, and protein were lower in the MetS group than in the non-MetS group (p < 0.001). Both the non-MetS and MetS groups showed lower energy intakes in women than men (p < 0.001). Our study shows that elderly people, especially women, with MetS have significantly lower total PA levels and total energy intakes. We confirmed the importance of increased PA and proper nutritional intake in elderly people. Therefore, it is believed that practical measures such as nutrition education and nutrition guidance and PA education are urgently needed to reduce the incidence of MetS among the elderly.
High Boredom Proneness and Low Trait Self-Control Impair Adherence to Social Distancing Guidelines during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Wolff Wanja , Martarelli Corinna S. , Schüler Julia , Bieleke Maik
Published: July 2020

Social distancing during the coronavirus-disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is crucial to reduce the spread of the virus. However, its effectiveness hinges on adherence by individuals who face substantial burdens from the required behavioral restrictions. Here, we investigate sources of individual variation in adhering to social distancing guidelines. In a high-powered study (N = 895), we tested direct and indirect effects of boredom and self-control on adherence. The results showed that both traits were important predictors of adherence but the underlying mechanisms differed. Specifically, individuals high in boredom perceived social distancing as more difficult, which in turn reduced their adherence (i.e., a mediated effect). In contrast, individuals high in self-control adhered more to the guidelines without perceiving them as more or less difficult; however, self-control moderated the effect of difficulty on adherence. Our results are immediately relevant to improve the efficacy of social distancing guidelines in the COVID-19 response.
Healthy Promotion for Fighting Metabolic Syndrome: Insights from Multi-Center HeRO-FiT Cohort
Authors: Gianturco Vincenzo , Gianturco Luigi , Regnoli Rebecca , Bodini Bruno Dino , Turiel Maurizio , Trapani Martino , Bini Francesco , De Angelis Giuseppe
Published: July 2020

We know that metabolic syndrome (MS) is a modern cardiovascular (CV) “epidemic”, especially in western populations. MS is indeed strictly related to the risk of developing CV diseases (CVD) and/or diabetes. Therefore, the aim of our multi-center study was to promote a “healthy style” for fighting MS. Each participating center analyzed its own database of outpatients and globally we have pulled out 100 volunteers to participate in the study. Before starting, we collected their written consent. Enrolled subjects have not any history of overt CVD and/or diabetes, but they matched National Cholesterol Education Program/Adult Treatment Panel (NCEP/ATP) criteria for MS. After enrolment (t0), subjects were randomly divided into two homogeneous groups: a) only diet suggestions; b) both diet and exercise prescription. Later, we measured for each subject: blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR), height, weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), waist hip ratio (WHR), six-minute walking test (WT6M), distance and common blood tests such as fasting plasma glucose, high-density lipoproteins (HDL) and triglycerides (T1 assessments). At six months (T2), the same parameters were measured and then statistical comparisons were performed. Attention to diet caused significant changes only in WC and WHR, whilst a coupling of exercise and diet revealed a statistically significant improvement in HR, BP, BMI, blood samplings and WT6M too. In conclusion, a healthy lifestyle should be more encouraged by physicians and/or collaborators (such as dieticians) operating in preventive settings. Diet and physical activity may be early useful strategies in the “battle” against MS even before any medication choices. Further studies will be necessary in order to better address the topic.
Compassionate Engagement and Action in the Education for Health Care Professions: A Cross-Sectional Study at an Ecuadorian University
Authors: Davalos-Batallas Viviana , Vargas-Martínez Ana-Magdalena , Bonilla-Sierra Patricia , Leon-Larios Fatima , Lomas-Campos Maria-de-las-Mercedes , Vaca-Gallegos Silvia-Libertad , de Diego-Cordero Rocio
Published: July 2020

Objective: This study aimed at exploring the compassion attitudes and needs for awareness and training related to a compassionate approach for Medicine, Nursing, and Psychology students, as well as for the academic and administration personnel from the Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja (UTPL, Ecuador) Health Sciences area. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study, based on a self-administered questionnaire through a sample of 788 UPTL students. STROBE guidelines were followed and applied. Results: A positive correlation was found between life engagement and compassion for others, from others, and self-compassion. The Nursing students were those who reported having previous experiences of contact with people with an advanced disease or in an end-of-life situation and having received some type of training compared to Medicine and Psychology students and lecturers (faculty members). Differences were found on the “self-compassion” and “compassion for others” subscales, noting a higher level of compassion among Psychology students. Conclusions: To implement the philosophy of compassionate universities it is necessary to design trainings that include the students, the faculty members, and the administrative staff, centered on sensitization and training about assistance, care, and accompaniment at the end of life, as well as cultivating compassion in the workplace.
Effects of Disability Type on the Association between Age and Non-Communicable Disease Risk Factors among Elderly Persons with Disabilities in Shanghai, China
Authors: Wang Xichen , Sun Mei , Li Xiaohong , Lu Jun , Chen Gang
Published: July 2020

Little is known about differences in the association between age and risk factors of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), according to the disability type in Chinese elderly persons with disabilities. Thus, we examined the effects of these differences in elderly persons with disabilities in Shanghai, China. We evaluated four NCD risk factors (hypertension, hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and overweight) using health data obtained from 20,471 elderly persons with disabilities in 2017. Logistic regression analyses explored differences in the association between age and NCD risk factors according to the disability types, after adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics. We observed significant differences in the association between age and NCD risk factors across disability types; a significant association was observed between older age and higher odds of hypertension (p < 0.001) among subjects with a physical disability. However, the prevalence of hypertension did not significantly differ by age in subjects with multiple disabilities. Interventions for elderly patients whose disabilities are more strongly affected by environmental factors should focus more on reduction of subjects’ barriers to activities through improvements in living and environmental adaptability for physical activities.
Parenting and Healthy Teenage Lifestyles
Authors: Alonso-Stuyck Paloma
Published: July 2020

How can one promote adolescent adjustment toward a healthy lifestyle? The first step is to locate the healthy habit configuration within the family environment. The hypothesis is that, if adolescent lifestyles are assumed autonomously during adolescence, then it is very likely that they will last throughout life. How does this relate to parenting styles? After reviewing the literature of the last four decades on adolescent behavioral autonomy and scientific articles that link healthy lifestyles with parenting, several conclusions have been reached, such as the relevance of recovering the biopsychosocial richness of healthy lifestyles, the need to use a dialogue strategy to resolve discrepancies between adolescents and their parents, and the adequacy of the personalistic parenting style to promote adjusted adolescent behavioral autonomy, and with it maintain healthy lifestyles in the long term.
Analysis of the Influencing Factors on the Preferences of the Elderly for the Combination of Medical Care and Pension in Long-Term Care Facilities Based on the Andersen Model
Authors: Wei Yong , Zhang Liangwen
Published: July 2020

Background: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the status quo and factors that influence the preferences of the elderly for the combination of medical care and pension (CMCP) in long-term care (LTC) facilities and to provide an evidence-based basis for building a multi-tiered, continuous LTC system with CMCP. Methods: Using a multi-stage sampling method, face-to-face questionnaire surveys were conducted on 3260 elderly people aged 60 years or over in 44 communities in 16 sub-districts in six districts in Xiamen. Based on the Andersen model, the chi-square test was used to analyze differences in population distribution, and binary logistic regression analysis was used to analyze the factors affecting the elderly’s preference for CMCP in LTC institutions in terms of the factors of predisposition, enablement, and personal needs. Results: Most elderly people choose traditional home care (82.01%), and only 12.89% choose LTC facilities with CMCP. This choice is influenced by a number of predisposing factors. The elderly who are at the upper end of the age range, have a higher education level, and live in rural areas are more likely to choose CMCP (odds ratio (OR) value greater than 1, p < 0.05). With regard to enabling factors, the elderly who were married, mainly taken care of by spouses, and had better economic status also tended to choose CMCP (OR > 1, p < 0.01). In terms of personal needs, the elderly with worse self-care status tended to choose CMCP (OR > 1, p < 0.01). Enabling factors have the largest contribution to the model, and they have the greatest impact on elder preference for CMCP services. In addition, the elderly with higher age and education level, non-remarried, with better economic status, and with poorer health status have a demand for a wider variety of CMCP services. Compared to those in urban areas, the elderly in rural areas have greater needs, mainly related to personal care, medical care, and psychological counseling. Conclusion: The preference of the elderly for CMCP are lower compared to their preference for home care in Xiamen, China. Preference for CMCP is affected by a range of factors such as age, education level, residence, income, and self-care ability, among which the enabling factors have the greatest impact.
Feature Extraction of Laser Machining Data by Using Deep Multi-Task Learning
Authors: Zhang Quexuan , Wang Zexuan , Wang Bin , Ohsawa Yukio , Hayashi Teruaki
Published: July 2020

Laser machining has been widely used for materials processing, while the inherent complex physical process is rather difficult to be modeled and computed with analytical formulations. Through attending a workshop on discovering the value of laser machining data, we are profoundly motivated by the recent work by Tani et al., who proposed in situ monitoring of laser processing assisted by neural networks. In this paper, we propose an application of deep learning in extracting representative features from laser processing images with a multi-task loss that consists of cross-entropy loss and logarithmic smooth L1 loss. In the experiment, AlexNet with multi-task learning proves to be better than deeper models. This framework of deep feature extraction also has tremendous potential to solve more laser machining problems in the future.
A Theoretical Conversation about Responses to Information Overload
Authors: Lehman Amanda , Miller Sophie Jo
Published: July 2020

In this study, information overload is viewed through the lenses of Library & Information Science and Communication Theory in order to offer recommended solutions for individuals experiencing overload. The purpose of this research was to apply LIS and COMM theories to the pathologies and symptoms of information overload as experienced by individuals in an increasingly digital world. Extant survey work was reviewed and updated with literature collected through limited keyword searches. The authors framed active responses to information overload through dimensions selected from the European Commission’s Digital Competence Framework as applied to Al-Shboul & Abrizah’s (2016) Modes of Information Seeking. Further study should focus on international perspectives and addressing disparities in access to information.
Smart Supra- and Macro-Molecular Tools for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Pinteala Mariana , Abadie Marc J. M. , Rusu Radu D.
Published: July 2020

Stimuli-responsive, “smart” polymeric materials used in the biomedical field function in a bio-mimicking manner by providing a non-linear response to triggers coming from a physiological microenvironment or other external source. They are built based on various chemical, physical, and biological tools that enable pH and/or temperature-stimulated changes in structural or physicochemical attributes, like shape, volume, solubility, supramolecular arrangement, and others. This review touches on some particular developments on the topic of stimuli-sensitive molecular tools for biomedical applications. Design and mechanistic details are provided concerning the smart synthetic instruments that are employed to prepare supra- and macro-molecular architectures with specific responses to external stimuli. Five major themes are approached: (i) temperature- and pH-responsive systems for controlled drug delivery; (ii) glycodynameric hydrogels for drug delivery; (iii) polymeric non-viral vectors for gene delivery; (iv) metallic nanoconjugates for biomedical applications; and, (v) smart organic tools for biomedical imaging.
Investigation of Thermophysical Properties of AW-2024-T3 Bare and Clad Aluminum Alloys
Authors: Zmywaczyk Janusz , Sienkiewicz Judyta , Koniorczyk Piotr , Godzimirski Jan , Zieliński Mateusz
Published: July 2020

In this paper, thermophysical and viscoelastic dynamic mechanical measurements (DMA) were performed for bare and clad aluminum AW-2024-T3 alloys. Specific heat, thermal diffusivity, and dynamic module (storage and loss) tests were performed in the range of 50 to 500 °C, except for DMA ones (RT–400 °C). All tests were carried out using the following specialized measuring stands: a light flash apparatus (LFA), differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), and a dynamic mechanical analyzer (DMA). The microstructures and compositions of alloys were investigated by light microscope (LM), scanning electron microscope (SEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). Furthermore, Vickers micro-hardness measurements were conducted prior to and after DSC studies. Different precipitation kinetics of the θ′ and S′ metastable phases in the bare 2024-T3 compared to the clad alloy were observed by DSC. Additionally, the DSC results for a few selected scan rates were analyzed by the Kissinger method to give activation energies for the precipitation of θ′ and S′ metastable phases in the alloys. The apparent activation energy of the θ′ and S′ phases corresponds to 137.1 ± 4.4 kJ· mol−1 for the bare alloy and 131.0 ± 6.0 (exo) and 104.1 ± 2.1 (exo) (two peaks) for the clad alloy.
RETRACTED: Effect of Final Rolling Temperature on Microstructures and Mechanical Properties of AZ31 Alloy Sheets Prepared by Equal Channel Angular Rolling and Continuous Bending
Authors: Shi Laixin , Liu Lei , Hu Li , Zhou Tao , Yang Mingbo , Lian Yong , Zhang Jin
Published: July 2020

The effects of final rolling temperature on the microstructures, texture and mechanical properties of AZ31 Mg alloy sheets prepared by equal channel angular rolling and continuous bending (ECAR-CB) were investigated. Extension twins {10–12} could be observed in the ECAR-CB deformed sheets. The increase in the number of {10–12} extension twins with increasing final rolling temperature might be attributed to the larger grain size and faster grain boundary migration. For all the ECAR-CB sheets at different final rolling temperatures, the deformation texture contains a basal texture component and a prismatic texture component, whereas the annealing recrystallization texture becomes a non-basal (pyramidal) texture with double peaks tilting away from normal direction (ND) to rolling direction (RD). With increasing final rolling temperature, the tilted angle of double peaks of annealing recrystallization non-basal texture increases. In addition, the plasticity and formability of ECAR-CB-A (ECAR-CB and then annealing) AZ31 Mg alloy sheets at room temperature can be improved by increasing the final rolling temperature.
Pandora’s Box–Influence of Contour Parameters on Roughness and Subsurface Residual Stresses in Laser Powder Bed Fusion of Ti-6Al-4V
Authors: Artzt Katia , Mishurova Tatiana , Bauer Peter-Philipp , Gussone Joachim , Barriobero-Vila Pere , Evsevleev Sergei , Bruno Giovanni , Requena Guillermo , Haubrich Jan
Published: July 2020

The contour scan strategies in laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) of Ti-6Al-4V were studied at the coupon level. These scan strategies determined the surface qualities and subsurface residual stresses. The correlations to these properties were identified for an optimization of the LPBF processing. The surface roughness and the residual stresses in build direction were linked: combining high laser power and high scan velocities with at least two contour lines substantially reduced the surface roughness, expressed by the arithmetic mean height, from values as high as 30 µm to 13 µm, while the residual stresses rose from ~340 to about 800 MPa. At this stress level, manufactured rocket fuel injector components evidenced macroscopic cracking. A scan strategy completing the contour region at 100 W and 1050 mm/s is recommended as a compromise between residual stresses (625 MPa) and surface quality (14.2 µm). The LPBF builds were monitored with an in-line twin-photodiode-based melt pool monitoring (MPM) system, which revealed a correlation between the intensity quotient I2/I1, the surface roughness, and the residual stresses. Thus, this MPM system can provide a predictive estimate of the surface quality of the samples and resulting residual stresses in the material generated during LPBF.
Effect of Furnace Gas Composition on Characteristics of Supersonic Oxygen Jets in the Converter Steelmaking Process
Authors: Yao Liujie , Zhu Rong , Tang Yixing , Wei Guangsheng , Dong Kai
Published: July 2020

During the converter steelmaking process, the presence of supersonic oxygen jets can provide oxygen to high-temperature metal baths that promotes chemical reactions in the bath, accelerates the smelting rhythm, and facilitates a uniform distribution of the ingredients in the bath. In this paper, a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model with combustion reactions is established and compared to the results of combustion experiment. This paper studies the behavior and fluid flow characteristics of supersonic oxygen jets under different environmental compositions under a steelmaking temperature of 1873 K. This validated CFD model can be used to investigate the effect of furnace gas on supersonic oxygen jet characteristics during the converter steelmaking process. The results indicate that the composition of furnace gas has an impact on the characteristics of the oxygen jet. Specifically, as the carbon monoxide (CO) volume fraction increases, the high velocity region of supersonic oxygen jet increases, and the high temperature and the high turbulent kinetic energy regions expand.
Progress on Silica Pervaporation Membranes in Solvent Dehydration and Solvent Recovery Processes
Authors: Rajawat Aakash , Subramanian Sundarrajan , Ramakrishna Seeram
Published: July 2020

Separation processes aimed at recovering the solvent from effluent streams offer a means for establishing a circular economy. Conventional technologies such as distillation are energy-intensive, inefficient and suffer from high operating and maintenance costs. Pervaporation based membrane separation overcomes these challenges and in conjunction with the utilization of inorganic membranes derived from non-toxic, sufficiently abundant and hence expendable, silica, allows for high operating temperatures and enhanced chemical and structural integrity. Membrane-based separation is predicted to dominate the industry in the coming decades, as the process is being understood at a deeper level, leading to the fabrication of tailored membranes for niche applications. The current review aims to compile and present the extensive and often dispersive scientific investigations to the reader and highlight the current scenario as well as the limitations suffered by this mature field. In addition, viable alternative to the conventional methodologies, as well as other rival materials in existence to achieve membrane-based pervaporation are highlighted.
RhoA and Rac1 in Liver Cancer Cells: Induction of Overexpression Using Mechanical Stimulation
Authors: Yadav Sharda , Kashaninejad Navid , Nguyen Nam-Trung
Published: July 2020

Liver cancer, especially hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is an aggressive disease with an extremely high mortality rate. Unfortunately, no promising markers are currently available for the early diagnosis of this disease. Thus, a reliable biomarker reflecting the early behaviour of the tumour will be valuable for diagnosis and treatment. The Ras homologous (Rho) GTPases, which belong to the small guanosine triphosphate (GTP) binding proteins, have been reported to play an important role in mediating liver cancer based on their important function in cytoskeletal reorganisation. These proteins can be either oncogenic or tumour suppressors. They are also associated with the acquirement of malignant features by cancer cells. The overexpression of RhoA and Rac1, members of the Rho GTPases, have been linked with carcinogenesis and the progression of different types of cancer. In the quest of elucidating the role of mechanical stimulation in the mechanobiology of liver cancer cells, this paper evaluates the effect of stretching on the expression levels of RhoA and Rac1 in different types of liver cancers. It is shown that that stretching liver cancer cells significantly increases the expression levels of RhoA and Rac1 in HCC and cholangiocarcinoma cell lines. We hypothesise that this relatively simple and sensitive method could be helpful for screening biological features and provide suitable treatment guidance for liver cancer patients.
Measured and Predicted Resting Energy Expenditure in Malnourished Older Hospitalized Patients: A Cross-Sectional and Longitudinal Comparison
Authors: Pourhassan Maryam , Daubert Diana , Wirth Rainer
Published: July 2020

A number of equations have been proposed to predict resting energy expenditure (REE). The role of nutritional status in the accuracy and validity of the REE predicted in older patients has been paid less attention. We aimed to compare REE measured by indirect calorimetry (IC) and REE predicted by the Harris–Benedict formula in malnourished older hospitalized patients. Twenty-three malnourished older patients (age range 67–93 years, 65% women) participated in this prospective longitudinal observational study. Malnutrition was defined as Mini Nutritional Assessment Long Form (MNA-SF) score of less than 17. REE was measured (REEmeasured) and predicted (REEpredicted) on admission and at discharge. REEpredicted within ±10% of the REEmeasured was considered as accuracy. Nutritional support was provided to all malnourished patients during hospitalization. All patients were malnourished with a median MNA-LF score of 14. REEmeasured and REEpredicted increased significantly during 2-week nutritional therapy (+212.6 kcal and +19.5 kcal, respectively). Mean REEpredicted (1190.4 kcal) was significantly higher than REEmeasured (967.5 kcal) on admission (p < 0.001). This difference disappeared at discharge (p = 0.713). The average REEpredicted exceeded the REEmeasured on admission and at discharge by 29% and 11%, respectively. The magnitude of difference between REEmeasured and REEpredicted increased along with the degree of malnutrition (r = 0.42, p = 0.042) as deviations ranged from −582 to +310 kcal/day in severe to mildly malnourished patients, respectively. REEpredicted by the Harris–Benedict formula is not accurate in malnourished older hospitalized patients. REE measured by IC is considered precise, but it may not represent the true energy requirements to recover from malnutrition. Therefore, the effect of malnutrition on measured REE must be taken into account when estimating energy needs in these patients.
Gastroprotective and Healing Effects of Polygonum cuspidatum Root on Experimentally Induced Gastric Ulcers in Rats
Authors: Kim Young-Sik , Nam YunSeol , Song Jungbin , Kim Hocheol
Published: July 2020

Polygonum cuspidatum is widely used as food and medicine in Korea, China, and Japan. Its major bioactive components, resveratrol and emodin, reportedly protect against gastric lesions. We therefore aimed to investigate: (1) the gastroprotective effects of P. cuspidatum roots in hydrochloric acid/ethanol (HCl/EtOH)- and indomethacin-induced acute gastric ulcer rat models; (2) the healing effects in an acetic acid-induced ulcer model; and (3) potential mechanisms by measuring gastric acid secretion-related parameters in a pyloric ligation-induced ulcer model, and by measuring antioxidant enzyme and prostaglandin E2 levels in the gastric tissue of HCl/EtOH-treated rats. Oral administration of P. cuspidatum extract (PCE) at doses of 100 and 300 mg/kg significantly decreased HCl/EtOH- and indomethacin-induced gastric lesions. PCE at 300 mg/kg significantly reduced gastric lesions in acetic acid-induced ulcers. PCE increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and glutathione (GSH) and prostaglandin E2 levels in gastric tissue, whereas it did not alter gastric acid secretion-related parameters. Our findings indicate that PCE has gastroprotective effects against HCl/EtOH and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and promotes healing of acetic acid-induced ulcers. These gastric mucosal protection and ulcer healing effects are associated with antioxidant effects and the augmentation of prostaglandin E2 and suggest that P. cuspidatum might be a promising preventive and therapeutic agent for treating gastric ulcers.
Probiotic Supplementation during the Perinatal and Infant Period: Effects on gut Dysbiosis and Disease
Authors: Navarro-Tapia Elisabet , Sebastiani Giorgia , Sailer Sebastian , Almeida Toledano Laura , Serra-Delgado Mariona , García-Algar Óscar , Andreu-Fernández Vicente
Published: July 2020

The perinatal period is crucial to the establishment of lifelong gut microbiota. The abundance and composition of microbiota can be altered by several factors such as preterm delivery, formula feeding, infections, antibiotic treatment, and lifestyle during pregnancy. Gut dysbiosis affects the development of innate and adaptive immune responses and resistance to pathogens, promoting atopic diseases, food sensitization, and infections such as necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). Recent studies have indicated that the gut microbiota imbalance can be restored after a single or multi-strain probiotic supplementation, especially mixtures of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains. Following the systematic search methodology, the current review addresses the importance of probiotics as a preventive or therapeutic tool for dysbiosis produced during the perinatal and infant period. We also discuss the safety of the use of probiotics in pregnant women, preterm neonates, or infants for the treatment of atopic diseases and infections.
Trajectories of Dietary Patterns, Sleep Duration, and Body Mass Index in China: A Population-Based Longitudinal Study from China Nutrition and Health Survey, 1991–2009
Authors: Cao Yingting , Xu Xiaoyue , Shi Zumin
Published: July 2020

No study has used trajectories of dietary patterns to examine their effects on sleep duration and body mass index over time in the Chinese population. We analyzed data from adults participating in the China Health and Nutrition Survey between 1991 and 2009. Dietary intake was measured by a 24-h recall method over three consecutive days. Height and body weight were measured, and sleep duration was self-reported. Multivariable mixed linear models were applied to examine the association between trajectories of dietary patterns (using a latent class model) and sleep duration as well as BMI. Four trajectories of a traditional pattern (characterized by rice, meat, and vegetables) and three trajectories of a modern pattern (characterized by fast food, milk, and deep-fried food) were identified. Participants with a high and rapid increase trajectory of the modern dietary pattern had the shortest sleep duration (β = −0.26; 95% CI: −0.40, −0.13). Participants with a high and stable intake of the traditional dietary pattern had the lowest BMI (β = −1.14; 95% CI: −1.41, −0.87), while the participants with a high and rapid increase trajectory of the modern dietary pattern had the highest BMI (β = 0.74; 95% CI: 0.34, 1,15). A rapid increase in the modern dietary pattern is associated with shorter sleep duration and higher BMI.
Impact of Varying Dosages of Fish Oil on Recovery and Soreness Following Eccentric Exercise
Authors: VanDusseldorp Trisha A. , Escobar Kurt A. , Johnson Kelly E. , Stratton Matthew T. , Moriarty Terence , Kerksick Chad M. , Mangine Gerald T. , Holmes Alyssa J. , Lee Matthew , Endito Marvin R. , Mermier Christine M.
Published: July 2020

Fish oils (FOs) are rich in omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, which have been purported to enhance recovery of muscular performance and reduce soreness post-exercise. However, the most effective FO dose for optimizing recovery remains unclear. The purpose of this investigation was to examine the effect of FO supplementation dosing on the recovery of measures of muscular performance, perceived soreness, and markers of muscle damage following a rigorous bout of eccentric exercise. Thirty-two college-aged resistance-trained males (~23.6 years, 71.6 kg, 172.1 cm) were supplemented with 2, 4, 6 g/day (G) FO or placebo (PL) for ~7.5 weeks. Following 7 weeks of supplementation, pre-exercise (PRE) performance assessments of vertical jump (VJ), knee extensor strength, 40-yard sprint, T-test agility, and perceived soreness were completed prior to a bout of muscle-damaging exercise and were repeated immediately post (IP), 1-, 2-, 4-, 24-, 48-, and 72-h (H) post-exercise. Repeated measures analysis of variance indicated a treatment × time interaction (p < 0.001) for VJ and perceived soreness, but no group differences were observed at any time point. VJ returned to PRE (54.8 ± 7.9 cm) by 1H (51.8 ± 6.5 cm, p = 0.112) for 6G, while no other groups returned to baseline until 48H. Lower soreness scores were observed in 6G compared to PL at 2H (mean difference [MD] = 2.74, p = 0.046), at 24H (MD: 3.45, p < 0.001), at 48H (MD = 4.45, p < 0.001), and at 72H (MD = 3.00, p = 0.003). Supplementation with 6G of FO optimized the recovery of jump performance and muscle soreness following a damaging bout of exercise.