bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Individual Headache Types on the Work and Work Efficiency of Headache Sufferers
Authors: Simić Svetlana , Rabi-Žikić Tamara , Villar José R. , Calvo-Rolle José Luis , Simić Dragan , Simić Svetislav D.
Published: September 2020

Background: Headaches have not only medical but also great socioeconomic significance, therefore, it is necessary to evaluate the overall impact of headaches on a patient’s life, including their work and work efficiency. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of individual headache types on work and work efficiency. Methods: This research was designed as a cross-sectional study performed by administering a questionnaire among employees. The questionnaire consisted of general questions, questions about headache features, and questions about the impact of headaches on work. Results: Monthly absence from work was mostly represented by migraine sufferers (7.1%), significantly more than with sufferers with tension-type headaches (2.23%; p = 0.019) and other headache types (2.15%; p = 0.025). Migraine sufferers (30.2%) worked in spite of a headache for more than 25 h, which was more frequent than with sufferers from tension-type and other-type headaches (13.4%). On average, headache sufferers reported work efficiency ranging from 66% to 90%. With regard to individual headache types, this range was significantly more frequent in subjects with tension-type headaches, whereas 91–100% efficiency was significantly more frequent in subjects with other headache types. Lower efficiency, i.e., 0–40% and 41–65%, was significantly more frequent with migraine sufferers. Conclusions: Headaches, especially migraines, significantly affect the work and work efficiency of headache sufferers by reducing their productivity. Loss is greater due to reduced efficiency than due to absenteeism.
The Analysis of the Frequency of Leukoplakia in Reference of Tobacco Smoking among Northern Polish Population
Authors: Kusiak Aida , Maj Adrian , Cichońska Dominika , Kochańska Barbara , Cydejko Aleksandra , Świetlik Dariusz
Published: September 2020

Objective: The aim of the study was an updated analysis of the frequency of leukoplakia in reference to tobacco smoking among the northern Polish population. Material and Methods: Medical records of 5720 patients who suffer from abnormalities and oral mucosa diseases between January 2015–December 2018 were analyzed. Among them, 416 medical charts of patients with leukoplakia were selected. The study group consisted of 196 women and 220 men aged between 21–86 years (average 45.6 years). The analysis was conducted in terms of age, gender, and smoking tobacco. The basic criterion for inclusion in the study was the presence of oral leukoplakia confirmed by histopathological examination, recorded in the chart. Information about the patient’s active smoking was obtained from documented medical interviews. An active smoker was defined as a patient who smoked 10 or more cigarettes a day for at least the previous six months. The study used parametric and non-parametric statistical methods. Results: The highest incidence of leukoplakia was found in the age group 41–60 (46.6%), where the vast majority were active smokers (85.1%), and mostly men (86.2%). However, among patients with leukoplakia, the highest prevalence of smoking was found in the age group 21–40 years (86.8%) in women, where out of 38 patients with leukoplakia, 33 were active smokers. More patients with leukoplakia were observed in groups of smokers and it was statistically significant. Homogeneous form was the most commonly diagnosed form of leukoplakia in our study; it was found in almost 95% of cases. Leukoplakia was mainly observed on the cheeks. Changes on the gums, the alveolar process or the bottom of the tongue and mouth were rarely found. Conclusion: Our studies revealed that there is a statistically significant correlation between tobacco smoking and the presence of oral leukoplakia among the northern Polish population. It should be noted that dentists, in particular, are capable of early diagnosis and implementation of appropriate treatment of leukoplakia and, most often, crucial elimination of the main risk factor, which is smoking, and the implementation of effective tobacco control interventions.
Leaders’ Future Orientation and Public Health Investment Intention: A Moderated Mediation Model of Self-Efficacy and Perceived Social Support
Authors: Wang Jianming , Chou Tsung Piao , Chen Chia-Pin , Bu Xiangzhi
Published: September 2020

Prior studies have investigated the issue of public health and health policy from economic, environmental, and healthcare perspectives. Research on public health from leaders’ perspective may also help to advance our knowledge about leaders’ perceptions, attitudes, and behavioral intentions toward public health management. Therefore, this study is based on social ideal theory, social cognitive theory, and social trust theory to investigate the influence of leaders’ future orientation on public health investment intention with the mediating role of leaders’ self-efficacy and the moderating role of perceived social support. Using a structural equation modeling with a sample data of 381 leaders of government agencies in Vietnam, empirical results indicate that leaders’ future orientation has a positive influence on public health investment intention. Furthermore, self-efficacy is found to have a positive mediating effect in the relationship between leaders’ future orientation and public health investment intention. In addition, perceived social support positively moderates the link between leaders’ future orientation and self-efficacy. Perceived social support also moderates the indirect effect of leaders’ future orientation on public health investment intention through self-efficacy. On one hand, this study contributes to theoretical research by clarifying the effects of leaders’ perceptions, and cognitive and behavioral intentions toward public health investment. Findings of this study may have implications for researchers who may have interest in studying the issue of public health management from leaders’ viewpoints. On the other hand, this study contributes to practitioners since understanding how leaders’ characteristics affect public health investment will enhance the quality of policy makers’ decision-making in improving public health for citizens and society.
Correlation of Caries Prevalence, Oral Health Behavior and Sweets Nutritional Habits among 10 to 19-Year-Old Cluj-Napoca Romanian Adolescents
Authors: Tudoroniu Cosmin , Popa Monica , Iacob Simona Maria , Pop Anca Lucia , Năsui Bogdana Adriana
Published: September 2020

Background and objectives: The primary oral disease during adolescence is dental caries. Less is known about the caries prevalence, oral health behavior, and sweets nutritional habits in Romanian adolescents. The objective of this study was to assess the actual caries prevalence among Romanian adolescents in a representative area of Romania, Cluj, and to correlate with oral hygiene behaviors and dietary sugary foods intake. Materials and methods: We have done a cross-sectional study of 650 adolescents aged 10 to 19-years-old (average age 15.3 ± 2.8). We performed the oral dental examination according to the WHO methodology, calculated the number of decayed, missing (due to caries), and filled teeth (DMFT index), assessed the oral hygiene and dietary behaviors using a two-section valid questionnaire and statistically analyzed the interrelation between DMFT, oral hygiene and eating behaviors by multivariate statistical analysis. Results: (a) The caries prevalence in the adolescent population enrolled in the study was 95.5%; (b) the mean DMFT was 3.13 ± 2.0, without significant differences between the urban and rural adolescents (p = 0.253); lower in females than males (p < 0.050), (c) more than one third (33.7%, n = 219) of teenagers are seldom or never brush their teeth in the evening; (c) 40.6% of adolescents are missing the regular annual dental check-ups leading to an increased DMFT as shown in the multivariate analysis (p = 0.038); and (d) there is an increased prevalence of caries with age (p = 0.020), and with sugary sweetened beverages consumption (p = 0.028). Conclusions: Our study evidenced a persistent high caries prevalence in Romanian teenagers. Their dietary habits and irregular dental check-up were associated with the occurrence of dental conditions.
Public Awareness and Behaviour in Great Britain in the Context of Sunlight Exposure and Vitamin D: Results from the First Large-Scale and Representative Survey
Authors: Burchell Kevin , Rhodes Lesley E. , Webb Ann R.
Published: September 2020

In recent years, UK public health messages about the risks of sunlight exposure (skin cancer) have been increasingly balanced by messages about its benefits (vitamin D production). Currently, data about the effects of this shift on public knowledge, awareness, and behaviour are scant. Thus, the objective of this paper is to report the findings of the first large-scale and representative survey of the awareness, knowledge, and behaviour of adults in Great Britain (England, Scotland, and Wales) (n = 2024) with respect to sunlight exposure, vitamin D, and sunburn and skin cancer. The findings suggest that the public in Great Britain is much more aware of public promotion of the risks of sunlight exposure than its benefits. That said, knowledge about sunlight exposure and vitamin D is fairly strong, though not with respect to the detail of the ‘little and often’ approach. However, the survey also suggests that levels of sunlight exposure among the public are often excessive. The survey indicates that knowledge and behaviour are both less satisfactory among men and people in lower socio-economic groups. The paper concludes with recommendations for public health communications and for research in this area.
A Review of Maternal Nutrition during Pregnancy and Impact on the Offspring through Development: Evidence from Animal Models of Over- and Undernutrition
Authors: Odhiambo John F. , Pankey Christopher L. , Ghnenis Adel B. , Ford Stephen P.
Published: September 2020

Similarities in offspring phenotype due to maternal under- or over-nutrition during gestation have been observed in studies conducted at University of Wyoming. In these studies, ewes were either nutrient-restricted (NR) from early to mid-gestation, or fed an obesogenic diet (MO) from preconception through term. Offspring necropsies occurred at mid-gestation, late-gestation, and after parturition. At mid gestation, body weights of NR fetuses were ~30% lighter than controls, whereas MO fetuses were ~30% heavier than those of controls. At birth, lambs born to NR, MO, and control ewes exhibited similar weights. This was a consequence of accelerated fetal growth rates in NR ewes, and reduced fetal growth rates in MO ewes in late gestation, when compared to their respective controls. These fetal growth patterns resulted in remarkably similar effects of increased susceptibility to obesity, cardiovascular disease, and glucose intolerance in offspring programmed mostly during fetal stages of development. These data provide evidence that maternal under- and over-nutrition similarly induce the development of the same cadre of physical and metabolic problems in postnatal life.
A Qualitative Study of a Mindfulness-Based Intervention in Educational Contexts in Chile: An Approach Based on Adolescents’ Voices
Authors: Langer Álvaro I. , Medeiros Sebastián , Valdés-Sánchez Nelson , Brito Rodrigo , Steinebach Christoph , Cid-Parra Cristian , Magni Antonella , Krause Mariane
Published: September 2020

The application of mindfulness-based interventions in school settings has increased considerably in recent years, showing that differences between the characteristics of programmes can impact on the receptivity and effectiveness of mindfulness training. However, few studies have explored the learning process from the perspective of the children and adolescents who participate in mindfulness practice. The goal of this paper is to analyse the subjective experience of a group of adolescents following the completion of a mindfulness-based intervention developed for schools in Chile. The intervention studied is the “.b curriculum”, which is part of the Mindfulness in School Project (MiSP) developed in the UK. Twenty adolescents participated in semi-structured interviews within their school, in which three key areas were explored: pedagogy, perceived effects, and mechanisms of action, each of them being analysed from the perspective of thematic analysis. The results support the view that pedagogy is a very relevant consideration in the implementation, development, and efficacy of mindfulness-based interventions within the school context. We propose that the inclusion of structure, contents, process/mindful practices, and teachers’ expertise provides the pedagogical-relational framework required for students to successfully develop mindfulness skills, which enables them to experience their cognitive, emotional, and somatic effects. These effects are linked to self-regulation strategies, based on paying attention to one’s somatic experience with kindness and curiosity, which works as an attentional anchor. It is hoped that these results will contribute to the spread of mindfulness research in adolescents in Latin America, thus facilitating cross-cultural and international comparisons.
Exploring Volatile Organic Compound Exposure and Its Association with Wheezing in Children under 36 Months: A Cross-Sectional Study in South Lisbon, Portugal
Authors: Rodrigues dos Santos Raquel , Gregório João , Castanheira Liliana , Fernandes Ana S.
Published: September 2020

Air quality and other environmental factors are gaining importance in public health policies. Some volatile organic compounds (VOCs) have been associated with asthma and symptoms of respiratory disease such as wheezing. The aim of this study was to measure the concentration of Total VOCs and assess their possible association with the occurrence of wheezing episodes in children under 36 months of age, in a region south of Lisbon, Portugal. A cross-sectional study was performed from October 2015 to March 2016. The sample of children under 36 months of age was selected by convenience, by inviting parents to take part in the study. A survey was applied to collect information on bedroom features, as well as to verify the occurrence of wheezing episodes. The indoor air quality parameters of bedrooms were measured using three 3M Quest® EVM-7 environmental monitors. In total, 34.4% of infants had had wheezing episodes since birth, with 86.7% of these presenting at least one episode in the previous 12 months. Total VOC levels were above the reference values in 48% of the analyzed bedrooms. No significant association of VOC exposure in a domestic setting with episodes of wheezing was found. However, children living in households with smokers were 4 times more likely to develop wheezing episodes. Thus, this study provides relevant information that warrants further studies to assess infant exposure to indoor air pollution and parental smoking in a residential context.
The Visible Behaviour of Drowning Persons: A Pilot Observational Study Using Analytic Software and a Nominal Group Technique
Authors: Carballo-Fazanes Aida , Bierens Joost J.L.M. ,   the International Expert Group to Study Drowning Behaviour
Published: September 2020

Although drowning is a common phenomenon, the behaviour of drowning persons is poorly understood. The purpose of this study is to provide a quantitative and qualitative analysis of this behaviour. This was an observational study of drowning videos observed by 20 international experts in the field of water safety. For quantitative analysis, each video was analysed with Lince observation software by four participants. A Nominal Group Technique generated input for the qualitative analysis and the two principal investigators conducted a post-hoc analysis. A total of 87.5% of the 23 videos showed drowning in swimming pools, 50% of the drowned persons were male, and 58.3% were children or teenagers. Nineteen persons were rescued before unconsciousness and showed just the beginning of downing behaviour. Another five were rescued after unconsciousness, which allowed the observation of their drowning behaviour from the beginning to the end. Significant differences were found comparing both groups regarding the length of disappearances underwater, number, and length of resurfacing (resp. p = 0.003, 0.016, 0.005) and the interval from the beginning of the incident to the rescue (p = 0.004). All persons drowned within 2 min. The qualitative analysis showed previously suggested behaviour patterns (immediate disappearance n = 5, distress n = 6, instinctive drowning response n = 6, climbing ladder motion n = 3) but also a striking new pattern (backward water milling n = 19). This study confirms previous assumptions of drowning behaviour and provides novel evidence-based information about the large variety of visible behaviours of drowning persons. New behaviours, which mainly include high-frequency resurfacing during a struggle for less than 2 min and backward water milling, have been recognised in this study.
Thermal Sensation in Older People with and without Dementia Living in Residential Care: New Assessment Approaches to Thermal Comfort Using Infrared Thermography
Authors: Childs Charmaine , Elliott Jennifer , Khatab Khaled , Hampshaw Susan , Fowler-Davis Sally , Willmott Jon R. , Ali Ali
Published: September 2020

The temperature of the indoor environment is important for health and wellbeing, especially at the extremes of age. The study aim was to understand the relationship between self-reported thermal sensation and extremity skin temperature in care home residents with and without dementia. The Abbreviated Mental Test (AMT) was used to discriminate residents to two categories, those with, and those without, dementia. After residents settled and further explanation of the study given (approximately 15 min), measurements included: tympanic membrane temperature, thermal sensation rating and infrared thermal mapping of non-dominant hand and forearm. Sixty-nine afebrile adults (60–101 years of age) were studied in groups of two to five, in mean ambient temperatures of 21.4–26.6 °C (median 23.6 °C). Significant differences were observed between groups; thermal sensation rating (p = 0.02), tympanic temperature (p = 0.01), fingertip skin temperature (p = 0.01) and temperature gradients; fingertip-wrist p = 0.001 and fingertip-distal forearm, p = 0.001. Residents with dementia were in significantly lower air temperatures (p = 0.001). Although equal numbers of residents per group rated the environment as ‘neutral’ (comfortable), resident ratings for ‘cool/cold’ were more frequent amongst those with dementia compared with no dementia. In parallel, extremity (hand) thermograms revealed visual temperature demarcation, variously across fingertip, wrist, and forearm commensurate with peripheral vasoconstriction. Infrared thermography provided a quantitative and qualitative method to measure and observe hand skin temperature across multiple regions of interest alongside thermal sensation self-report. As an imaging modality, infrared thermography has potential as an additional assessment technology with clinical utility to identify vulnerable residents who may be unable to communicate verbally, or reliably, their satisfaction with indoor environmental conditions.
Effects of p-Cresol on Senescence, Survival, Inflammation, and Odontoblast Differentiation in Canine Dental Pulp Stem Cells
Authors: Zayed Mohammed , Iohara Koichiro
Published: September 2020

Aging, defined by a decrease in the physical and functional integrity of the tissues, leads to age-associated degenerative diseases. There is a relation between aged dental pulp and the senescence of dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs). Therefore, it is important to investigate the molecular processes underlying the senescence of DPSCs to elucidate the dental pulp aging mechanisms. p-Cresol (PC), a uremic toxin, is strongly related to cellular senescence. Here, age-related phenotypic changes including senescence, apoptosis, inflammation, and declining odontoblast differentiation in PC-treated canine DPSCs were investigated. Under the PC condition, cellular senescence was induced by decreased proliferation capacity and increased cell size, senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-gal) activity, and senescence markers p21, IL-1β, IL-8, and p53. Exposure to PC could stimulate inflammation by the increased expression of IL-6 and cause the distraction of the cell cycle by the increased level of Bax protein and decreased Bcl-2. The levels of odontoblast differentiation markers, dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP), dentin matrix protein 1, and osterix, were decreased. Consistent with those findings, the alizarin red staining, alkaline phosphatase, and DSPP protein level were decreased during the odontoblast differentiation process. Taken together, these findings indicate that PC could induce cellular senescence in DPSCs, which may demonstrate the changes in aging dental pulp.
Antimicrobial Photoinactivation Approach Based on Natural Agents for Control of Bacteria Biofilms in Spacecraft
Authors: Buchovec Irina , Gricajeva Alisa , Kalėdienė Lilija , Vitta Pranciškus
Published: September 2020

A spacecraft is a confined system that is inhabited by a changing microbial consortium, mostly originating from life-supporting devices, equipment collected in pre-flight conditions, and crewmembers. Continuous monitoring of the spacecraft’s bioburden employing culture-based and molecular methods has shown the prevalence of various taxa, with human skin-associated microorganisms making a substantial contribution to the spacecraft microbiome. Microorganisms in spacecraft can prosper not only in planktonic growth mode but can also form more resilient biofilms that pose a higher risk to crewmembers’ health and the material integrity of the spacecraft’s equipment. Moreover, bacterial biofilms in space conditions are characterized by faster formation and acquisition of resistance to chemical and physical effects than under the same conditions on Earth, making most decontamination methods unsafe. There is currently no reported method available to combat biofilm formation in space effectively and safely. However, antibacterial photodynamic inactivation based on natural photosensitizers, which is reviewed in this work, seems to be a promising method.
Hippocampal Impairment Triggered by Long-Term Lead Exposure from Adolescence to Adulthood in Rats: Insights from Molecular to Functional Levels
Authors: Alves Oliveira Ana Carolina , Dionizio Aline , Teixeira Francisco Bruno , Bittencourt Leonardo Oliveira , Nonato Miranda Giza Hellen , Oliveira Lopes Géssica , Varela Everton L. P. , Nabiça Mariane , Ribera Paula , Dantas Kelly , Leite Aline , Buzalaf Marília Afonso Rabelo , Monteiro Marta Chagas , Maia Cristiane Socorro Ferraz , Lima Rafael Rodrigues
Published: September 2020

Lead (Pb) is an environmental and occupational neurotoxicant after long-term exposure. This study aimed to investigate the effects of systemic Pb exposure in rats from adolescence to adulthood, evaluating molecular, morphologic and functional aspects of hippocampus. For this, male Wistar rats were exposed to 50 mg/kg of Pb acetate or distilled water for 55 days by intragastric gavage. For the evaluation of short-term and long-term memories, object recognition and step-down inhibitory avoidance tests were performed. At the end of the behavioral tests, the animals were euthanized and the hippocampus dissected and processed to the evaluation of: Pb content levels in hippocampal parenchyma; Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC), glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels as parameters of oxidative stress and antioxidant status; global proteomic profile and neuronal degeneration by anti-NeuN immunohistochemistry analysis. Our results show the increase of Pb levels in the hippocampus of adult rats exposed from adolescence, increased MDA and GSH levels, modulation of proteins related to neural structure and physiology and reduced density of neurons, hence a poor cognitive performance on short and long-term memories. Then, the long-term exposure to Pb in this period of life may impair several biologic organizational levels of the hippocampal structure associated with functional damages.
Are Alterations in Skeletal Muscle Mitochondria a Cause or Consequence of Insulin Resistance?
Authors: Genders Amanda J. , Holloway Graham P. , Bishop David J.
Published: September 2020

As a major site of glucose uptake following a meal, skeletal muscle has an important role in whole-body glucose metabolism. Evidence in humans and animal models of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes suggests that alterations in mitochondrial characteristics accompany the development of skeletal muscle insulin resistance. However, it is unclear whether changes in mitochondrial content, respiratory function, or substrate oxidation are central to the development of insulin resistance or occur in response to insulin resistance. Thus, this review will aim to evaluate the apparent conflicting information placing mitochondria as a key organelle in the development of insulin resistance in skeletal muscle.
Blocking of the IL-33/ST2 Signaling Axis by a Single-Chain Antibody Variable Fragment (scFv) Specific to IL-33 with a Defined Epitope
Authors: Park Soo Bin , Kim Sun-Jick , Cho Sang Woo , Choi Cheol Yong , Lee Sangho
Published: September 2020

Interleukin 33 (IL-33) is an IL-1 family cytokine that plays a central role in immune system by regulating and initiating inflammatory responses. The binding of IL-33 to the suppressor of tumorigenicity 2 (ST2) receptor induces mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) and nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) pathways, thereby leading to inflammatory cytokines production in type 2 helper T cells and type 2 innate lymphoid cells. To develop an antibody specific to IL-33 with a defined epitope, we characterized a single-chain antibody variable fragments (scFvs) clone specific to IL-33, C2_2E12, which was selected from a human synthetic library of scFvs using phage display. Affinity (Kd) of C2_2E12 was determined to be 38 nM using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. C2_2E12 did not show cross-reactivity toward other interleukin cytokines, including closely related IL-1 family cytokines and unrelated proteins. Mutational scanning analysis revealed that the epitope of IL-33 consisted of residues 149–158 with key residues being L150 and K151 of IL-33. Structural modeling suggested that L150 and K151 residues are important for the interaction of IL-33 with C2_2E12, implicating that C2_2E12 could block the binding of ST2 to IL-33. Pull-down and in-cell assays supported that C2_2E12 can inhibit the IL-33/ST2 signaling axis. These results suggest that the scFv clone characterized here can function as a neutralizing antibody.
Phospholipase D1 and D2 Synergistically Regulate Thrombus Formation
Authors: Lien Li-Ming , Lu Wan-Jung , Chen Ting-Yu , Lee Tzu-Yin , Wang Hsueh-Hsiao , Peng Hsien-Yu , Chen Ray-Jade , Lin Kuan-Hung
Published: September 2020

Previously, we reported that phospholipase D1 (PLD1) and PLD2 inhibition by selective PLD1 and PLD2 inhibitors could prevent platelet aggregation in humans, but not in mice. Moreover, only the PLD1 inhibitor, but not PLD2 inhibitor, could effectively prevent thrombus formation in mice, indicating that PLD might play different roles in platelet function in humans and mice. Although PLD1 and PLD2 were reported to be implicated in thrombotic events, the role of PLD in mice remains not completely clear. Here, we investigated the role of PLD1 and PLD2 in acute pulmonary thrombosis and transient middle cerebral artery occlusion-induced brain injury in mice. The data revealed that inhibition of PLD1, but not of PLD2, could partially prevent pulmonary thrombosis-induced death. Moreover, concurrent PLD1 and PLD2 inhibition could considerably increase survival rate. Likewise, inhibition of PLD1, but not PLD2, partially improved ischemic stroke and concurrent inhibition of PLD1, and PLD2 exhibited a relatively better protection against ischemic stroke, as evidenced by the infarct size, brain edema, modified neurological severity score, rotarod test, and the open field test. In conclusion, PLD1 might play a more important role than PLD2, and both PLD1 and PLD2 could act synergistically or have partially redundant functions in regulating thrombosis-relevant events.
Imaging Diagnostics and Pathology in SARS-CoV-2-Related Diseases
Authors: Scimeca Manuel , Urbano Nicoletta , Bonfiglio Rita , Montanaro Manuela , Bonanno Elena , Schillaci Orazio , Mauriello Alessandro
Published: September 2020

In December 2019, physicians reported numerous patients showing pneumonia of unknown origin in the Chinese region of Wuhan. Following the spreading of the infection over the world, The World Health Organization (WHO) on 11 March 2020 declared the novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) outbreak a global pandemic. The scientific community is exerting an extraordinary effort to elucidate all aspects related to SARS-CoV-2, such as the structure, ultrastructure, invasion mechanisms, replication mechanisms, or drugs for treatment, mainly through in vitro studies. Thus, the clinical in vivo data can provide a test bench for new discoveries in the field of SARS-CoV-2, finding new solutions to fight the current pandemic. During this dramatic situation, the normal scientific protocols for the development of new diagnostic procedures or drugs are frequently not completely applied in order to speed up these processes. In this context, interdisciplinarity is fundamental. Specifically, a great contribution can be provided by the association and interpretation of data derived from medical disciplines based on the study of images, such as radiology, nuclear medicine, and pathology. Therefore, here, we highlighted the most recent histopathological and imaging data concerning the SARS-CoV-2 infection in lung and other human organs such as the kidney, heart, and vascular system. In addition, we evaluated the possible matches among data of radiology, nuclear medicine, and pathology departments in order to support the intense scientific work to address the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. In this regard, the development of artificial intelligence algorithms that are capable of correlating these clinical data with the new scientific discoveries concerning SARS-CoV-2 might be the keystone to get out of the pandemic.
Monitoring of the Surface Charge Density Changes of Human Glioblastoma Cell Membranes upon Cinnamic and Ferulic Acids Treatment
Authors: Naumowicz Monika , Kusaczuk Magdalena , Zając Marcin , Gál Miroslav , Kotyńska Joanna
Published: September 2020

Cinnamic acid (CA) and ferulic acid (FA) are naturally occurring phenolic acids claimed to exert beneficial effects against disorders related to oxidative stress, including cancer. One such malignancy that still remains a therapeutic challenge mainly due to its heterogeneity and inaccessibility to therapeutic agents is Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). Here, the influence of CA and FA on the surface charge density of human GBM cell line LN-229 was studied using the electrophoretic light scattering technique. Also, the cytotoxicity of both phenolic acids was determined by metabolic activity-assessing tetrazolium test (MTT) analysis after exposure to CA and FA for 24 h and 48 h. Results showed that both compounds reduced cell viability of LN-229 cells, with more pronounced effect evoked by CA as reflected in IC50 values. Further analyses demonstrated that, after treatment with both phenolic acids, the negative charge of membranes decreased at high pH values and the positive charge of the membranes increased at low pH values compared to the data obtained for untreated cells. Afterward, a four-equilibrium model was applied to estimate the total surface concentrations of both acidic and basic functional groups and their association constants with solution ions in order to calculate theoretical values of membrane surface charge densities. Then, the theoretical data were compared to the experimental data in order to verify the mathematical model. As such, our results indicate that application of electrochemical methods to determine specific drug–membrane interactions might be crucial for predicting their pharmacological activity and bioavailability.
Needs of Families with Children with Cerebral Palsy in Latvia and Factors Affecting These Needs
Authors: Bertule Dace , Vetra Anita
Published: September 2020

In order to provide targeted support to families who are raising children with developmental disorders, it is important to study the family needs and to understand circumstances that may affect them. The aim of this study was to identify the needs of the families with preschool children with cerebral palsy, and study how these needs relate to factors associated with families, children and rehabilitation services. Descriptive analysis showed that families living in Latvia most often need information, social and financial support and coordination of services, and they also need financial support to cover the costs of child care and treatment. The results of the data analysis support the hypothesis that factors characterising families, children with cerebral palsy and rehabilitation services affect the needs of the families with preschool children with cerebral palsy living in Latvia, and the unique impact of these factors depends on the type of needs. Regression analysis revealed that the most important factors affecting the needs of families were related with the socio-economic situation, as well as the support of peers and professionals. The availability and regularity of rehabilitation services, limitations to the child’s functions and health impairments were factors that affected family needs to a lesser extent.
Corrosion Fatigue Fracture Characteristics of FSW 7075 Aluminum Alloy Joints
Authors: Ma Qingna , Shao Fei , Bai Linyue , Xu Qian , Xie Xingkun , Shen Mei
Published: September 2020

The corrosion fatigue properties and fracture characteristics of friction stir welding joints of 7075 aluminum alloys were studied via corrosion fatigue tests, electrochemical measurements, and corrosion fatigue morphology and microstructure observations. The results show that the corrosion fatigue crack of the friction stir welding (FSW) joint of 7075 aluminum alloys originated in the junction zone between the thermomechanically affected zone and the weld nugget zone. The corrosion fatigue life of the joint decreased with increasing stress amplitude, with an S–N curve equation of lgN = 5.845 − 0.014S. Multiple crack sources were observed in the corrosion fatigue fracture. The main crack source originated from the corrosion pits at the interface between the thermomechanically affected zone and the weld nugget zone due to the influence of the coarse microstructure and the large potential difference between both zones. Corrosion morphologies of a rock candy block and an ant nest appeared in the crack propagation zone and the grain boundary of the weld nugget zone. In addition, fatigue speckles and intergranular fractures were observed, as well as brittle fracture characterized by cleavage steps and secondary cracks in the final fracture zone.
Estimating the Impact of Nanophases on the Production of Green Cement with High Performance Properties
Authors: Ahmed Inas A. , S. Al-Radadi Najlaa
Published: September 2020

Ordinary Portland cement (OPC) production is energy-intensive and significantly contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. One method to reduce the environmental impact of concrete production is the use of an alternative binder, calcium sulfoaluminate cement, which offers lower CO2 emissions and reduces energy consumption for cement production. This article describes the effect of adding nanophases, namely belite, calcium sulfoaluminate, calcium aluminum monosulfate (β-C2S, C4A3S, and C4AS, respectively) on OPC’s properties. These phases are made from nanosubstances such as nano-SiO2, calcium nitrate (Ca(NO3)2), and nano-aluminum hydroxide Al(OH)3 with gypsum (CaSO4·2H2O). The impact of β-C2S, C4A3S, and C4AS nanophases on the capabilities of cements was assessed by batch experimentations and IR, XRD, and DSC techniques. The results showed that the substituting of OPC by nano phases (either 10% C4A3S or 10% C4A3S and 10% β-C2S) reduced setting times, reduced the water/cement ratio and the free-lime contents, and increased the combined water contents as well as compressive strength of the cement pastes. The blends had high early and late compressive strength. The IR, XRD, and DSC analyses of the blends of 10% C4A3S or 10% C4A3S and 10% β-C2S cement displayed an increase in the hydrate products and the presence of monosulfate hydrate. The addition of 10% C4AS or 10% C4AS and 10% β-C2S to OPC reduced the setting times, decreased the W/C ratio, free lime, the bulk density, and increased the chemically-combined water and compressive strength. Overall, the results confirmed that the inclusion of the nanophases greatly enhanced the mechanical and durability properties of the OPCs.
The Influence of the Addition of Plant-Based Natural Fibers (Jute) on Biocemented Sand Using MICP Method
Authors: Imran Md Al , Gowthaman Sivakumar , Nakashima Kazunori , Kawasaki Satoru
Published: September 2020

The microbial-induced carbonate precipitation (MICP) method has gained intense attention in recent years as a safe and sustainable alternative for soil improvement and for use in construction materials. In this study, the effects of the addition of plant-based natural jute fibers to MICP-treated sand and the corresponding microstructures were measured to investigate their subsequent impacts on the MICP-treated biocemented sand. The fibers used were at 0%, 0.5%, 1.5%, 3%, 5%, 10%, and 20% by weight of the sand, while the fiber lengths were 5, 15, and 25 mm. The microbial interactions with the fibers, the CaCO3 precipitation trend, and the biocemented specimen (microstructure) were also evaluated based on the unconfined compressive strength (UCS) values, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and fluorescence microscopy. The results of this study showed that the added jute fibers improved the engineering properties (ductility, toughness, and brittleness behavior) of the biocemented sand using MICP method. Furthermore, the fiber content more significantly affected the engineering properties of the MICP-treated sand than the fiber length. In this study, the optimal fiber content was 3%, whereas the optimal fiber length was s 15 mm. The SEM results indicated that the fiber facilitated the MICP process by bridging the pores in the calcareous sand, reduced the brittleness of the treated samples, and increased the mechanical properties of the biocemented sand. The results of this study could significantly contribute to further improvement of fiber-reinforced biocemented sand in geotechnical engineering field applications.
Investigation on the Curvature Correction Factor of Extension Spring
Authors: Tan P. S. , Akhavan Farid Ali , Karimzadeh Atefeh , Rahimian Koloor Seyed Saeid , Petrů Michal
Published: September 2020

The curvature correction factor is an important parameter in the stress calculation formulation of a helical extension spring, which describes the effect of spring wire curvature on the stress increase towards its inner radius. In this study, the parameters affecting the curvature correction factor were investigated through theoretical and numerical methods. Several finite element (FE) models of an extension spring were generated to obtain the distribution of the tensile stress in the spring. In this investigation, the hook orientation and the number of coils of the extension spring showed significant effects on the curvature correction factor. These parameters were not considered in the theoretical model for the calculation of the curvature correction factor, causing a deviation between the results of the FE model and the theoretical approach. A set of equations is proposed for the curvature correction factor, which relates both the spring index and the number of coils. These equations can be applied directly to the design of extension springs with a higher safety factor.
Ultimate Bearing Capacity Analysis of CFRP-Strengthened Shield Segments Using Bonding Slip Behavior Experiments
Authors: Nie Hong-bin , Gu Shuan-cheng
Published: September 2020

Shield segments of subway tunnels are often exposed to the combined actions of several hygrothermal factors that could lead to accidents such as water seepage and tunnel collapse. Further, they often break and deform owing to formation pressure. In addition, uncertainties related to the stress relaxation characteristics and bonding performance of carbon-fiber-reinforced plastics (CFRPs) under a hygrothermal environment make their application in subway systems difficult. This study analyzes the effects of the slip-on-bending strength of CFRP-strengthened shield segments in a hygrothermal environment. In the study, the shield segments are damaged at ambient pressure under a combination of humidity (0%, 5%, and 10%) and temperature (20 °C, 25 °C, 30 °C, and 40 °C). An experimental procedure is designed to evaluate a CFRP-reinforced concrete arch. The method predicts the load–slip relationship and maximum shearing stress and strain. Moreover, confined compression tests are conducted on a tunnel segment lining strengthened with CFRP to evaluate the bearing capacity of the CFRP-strengthened shield segments. An equation for the latter’s ultimate bearing capacity is developed based on the elastic layer system theory, stress boundary condition, and bending stress characteristics of axisymmetric elements. It was found that the results from the developed model are compared with the experimental values of CFRP-strengthened shield segments under different humidity values (0%, 5%, and 10%) and a constant temperature. The ultimate strength—the debonding deflection of the CFRP-strengthened shield segment—can be predicted using the proposed ultimate bearing capacity equation with sufficient accuracy.
Thermochemical Route for Extraction and Recycling of Critical, Strategic and High-Value Elements from By-Products and End-of-Life Materials, Part II: Processing in Presence of Halogenated Atmosphere
Authors: Kanari Ndue , Allain Eric , Shallari Seit , Diot Frédéric , Diliberto Sébastien , Patisson Fabrice , Yvon Jacques
Published: September 2020

During the treatment of copper anode slime (CAS) under an air atmosphere, several aspects of the interactions of its main components (CuAgSe, Cu2−xSeyS1−y, Ag3AuSe2) with oxygen were described in Part I. As a comparative and complementary study, this work deals with the thermal behavior of CAS under air in the presence of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) between 195 and 770 °C. The preliminary thermal treatment of an e-waste sample containing brominated substances was also performed. The reaction products were systematically analyzed by scanning electron microscopy through energy-dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) to investigate the thermal behaviors of the studied samples in a halogenated medium. At low temperatures, the copper, silver and selenium compounds of the CAS reacted with the HCl, issued from PVC degradation, leading to the formation of their respective chlorides. Bromides of valuable metals (Cu, Pb, Sn…) were synthesized during the e-waste treatment at 500 °C and they were distributed between the solid residue and gaseous phase. The data obtained give an insight into the reactivity of several metals towards halogenated substances, which may be valuable information for conducting the extraction and recycling of targeted elements from industrial by-products and end-of-life materials by a thermochemical route.
Characteristics of CO2 and Energy-Saving Concrete with Porous Feldspar
Authors: Han Jung-Geun , Cho Jin-Woo , Kim Sung-Wook , Park Yun-Suk , Lee Jong-Young
Published: September 2020

In this study, to reduce the use of cement and sand, porous feldspar with excellent economic efficiency was used as a substitute in the heat storage concrete layer. When porous feldspar and four other silicate minerals were used as substitute materials for sand in cement mortar, the specimen with the porous feldspar exhibited approximately 16–63% higher compressive strength, thereby exhibiting a higher reactivity with cement compared to the other minerals. To compensate for the reduction in strength owing to the decreased cement content, mechanical and chemical activation methods were employed. When the specific surface area of porous feldspar was increased, the unit weight was reduced by approximately 30% and the compressive strength was increased by up to 90%. In addition, the results of the thermal diffusion test confirmed that thermal diffusion increased owing to a reduction in the unit weight; the heat storage characteristics improved owing to the better porosity of feldspar. When chemical activation was performed after reducing the cement content by 5% and replacing the sand with porous feldspar, the compressive strength was found to be approximately twice that of an ordinary cement mortar. In a large-scale model experiment, the heat storage layer containing the porous feldspar exhibited better heat conduction and heat storage characteristics than the heat storage layer composed of ordinary cement mortar. Additionally, energy savings of 57% were observed.
Effect of Alumina Nano-Particles on Physical and Mechanical Properties of Medium Density Fiberboard
Authors: Alabduljabbar Hisham , Alyousef Rayed , Gul Waheed , Shah Syed Riaz Akbar , Khan Afzal , Khan Razaullah , Alaskar Abdulaziz
Published: September 2020

This research aims to explore the effects of nanoparticles such as alumina (Al2O3) on the physical and mechanical properties of medium density fiberboards (MDF). The nanoparticles are added in urea-formaldehyde (UF) resin with different concentration levels e.g., 1.5%, 3%, and 4.5% by weight. A combination of forest fibers such as Populus Deltuidess (Poplar) and Euamericana (Ghaz) are used as a composite reinforcement due to their exceptional abrasion confrontation as well as their affordability and economic value with Al2O3-UF as a matrix or nanofillers for making the desired nanocomposite specimens. Thermo-gravimetric analysis (TGA) and thermal analytical analysis (TAA) in the form of differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) are carried out and it has been found that increasing the percentage of alumina nanoparticles leads to an increase in the total heat content. The mechanical properties such as internal bonding (IB), modulus of elasticity (MOE) and modulus of rupture (MOR), and physical properties such as density, water absorption (WA), and thickness swelling (TS) of the specimens have been investigated. The experimental results showed that properties of the new Nano-MDF are higher when compared to the normal samples. The results also showed that increasing the concentration of alumina nanoparticles in the urea-formaldehyde resin effects the mechanical properties of panels considerably.