bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influência da polifarmácia e do uso de medicamentos inapropriados para idosos sobre a taxa de filtração glomerular
Authors: Morais Diego Bruno , Paolinelli João Pedro Vasconcelos , Dâmaso Soraia de Freitas Tavares , Baldoni André Oliveira , Otoni Alba
Published: April 2021

Objetivo: Investigar a associação entre a alteração da Taxa de Filtração Glomerular estimada em pessoas idosas com o uso de Medicamentos Potencialmente Inapropriados para idosos e polifarmácia. Metodologia: Estudo transversal e analítico desenvolvido a partir de dados de 1216 idosos usuários do Sistema Público de Saúde que apresentavam exames de Taxa de Filtração Glomerular estimada, sendo a mesma considerada alterada quando < 60mL/min/1,73m2. Foram realizadas análises descritivas, análise univariada “teste de qui-quadrado (χ2) ou exato de Fisher” e as variáveis que apresentaram p<0,2 foram incluídas na análise de regressão logística multivariada. Resultados: Do total de pacientes, 541 (44,5%) apresentavam Taxa de Filtração Glomerular estimada alterada, 943 (77,5%) utilizavam polifarmácia e 588 (48,3%) usavam Medicamentos Potencialmente Inapropriados para idosos. A análise multivariada mostrou que homens acima de 80 anos apresentam maiores chances de terem a Taxa de Filtração Glomerular estimada alterada e que a prática da polifarmácia aumentou em 1,62 as chances de alterações neste parâmetro (p= 0,004; OR: 1,62; IC:1,67 – 2,24). Além disso, a utilização de Medicamentos Potencialmente Inapropriados aumentou em 1,49 vezes as chances de ter a Taxa de Filtração Glomerular estimada alterada (p= 0,003 OR: 1,49; IC:1,15 – 1,93). Conclusão: Este estudo evidenciou uma alta frequência de uso de polifarmácia e Medicamentos Potencialmente Inapropriados em idosos e essa população se mostrou com maior chance de comprometimento das funções renais. Assim, este achado traz um alerta à saúde pública e aponta para a necessidade de se investir em uma abordagem terapêutica como foco na segurança do paciente idoso.
Diálogo entre conhecimentos acadêmicos e saberes tradicionais em um curso de licenciatura a distância
Authors: Paprosqui Juliane , Medeiros Liziany Muller , Folmer Ivanio , Machado Gabriella Eldereti
Published: April 2021

O artigo que se apresenta é o resultado de uma pesquisa que envolveu 90 (noventa) discentes de uma disciplina intitulada “Seminário Integrador V”, do curso de Licenciatura em Educação do Campo ofertado na modalidade a distância pela Universidade Federal de Santa Maria em parceria com a Universidade Aberta do Brasil. Estes alunos pesquisaram diversas práticas de agricultura sustentável e saberes produzidos no campo, registrando-os em relatórios apresentados ao final da disciplina. Retornando o total de 33 (trinta e três) relatórios destas práticas pesquisadas analisados neste artigo. Os locais pesquisados foram na abrangência do espaço rural dos polos de apoio presencial do curso são eles: Polo de Agudo, São Sepé; Seberi, Itaqui e Cerro Largo, todos no estado do Rio Grande do Sul. A metodologia seguida foi análise qualitativa dos relatórios apresentados, precedida da pesquisa bibliográfica que deu arcabouço teórico sobre as temáticas. Os resultados apontam para a necessidade de elucidar no futuro educador do campo a sensibilidade e a importância da valorização dos saberes tradicionais. Entendendo também que a educação do campo parte do respeito do modo de vida das populações campesinas, tendo a compreensão ampliada de seu papel de futuro educador do campo capaz de promover a articulação entre a escola e a comunidade.
Potencialidade do Moodle no gerenciamento de bolsistas em uma Universidade Federal
Authors: Castro João Juliano Monteblanco , Paprosqui Juliane , Medeiros Liziany Muller , Folmer Ivanio , Machado Gabriella Eldereti
Published: April 2021

O artigo que se apresenta discorre sobre a potencialidade do uso do Ambiente Virtual de Ensino-Aprendizagem (AVEA) Moodle como ferramenta de apoio à gestão de bolsas da Universidade Aberta do Brasil (UAB), inserido na Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), que é gerido pelo Núcleo de Tecnologia Educacional (NTE). O trabalho foi desenvolvido sob uma abordagem de pesquisa qualitativa, em um contexto de estudo de caso. O público-alvo foram os coordenadores gerais (22) e os coordenadores de tutoria (05) dos cursos da UAB/UFSM. Como instrumento de coleta de dados foi adotado um questionário, com 21 questões abertas e fechadas. Os dados revelados mostram a potencialidade de uso do Moodle na mediação do sistema de bolsas e a implementação de um tutorial que auxilie os coordenadores nos momentos de gestão de pagamento de bolsas. É uma ferramenta importante que torna o processo mais ágil e sem tantos entraves burocráticos. A utilização do AVA Moodle torna o processo mais fluído, democrático e transparente.
ANALISIS LITERASI BUDAYA MAHASISWA PGSD DALAM PROGRAM PERTUKARAN MAHASISWA TANAH AIR NUSANTARA
Authors: Arga Hana Sakura Putu , Ruqoyyah Siti , Wulandari Medita Ayu
Published: April 2021

Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetaui sejauh mana kemampuan mahasiswa PGSD dalam beradapasi terhadap keberagaman bangsa baik itu cara bersikap, cara berkomunikasi dan cara berinteraksi antar satu dan lannya melalui sebuah program pertukaran mahasiswa tanah air nusantara. Dalam program ini mahasiswa dari beberapa universitas luar pulau disatukan dalam suatu pembelajaran yang dilakukan secara daring dan diharpkan melalui program ini setiap mahasiswa memiliki kemampuan dalam memahami ragam suku bangsa, bahasa, kepercayaan, kebiasaan, adat isiadat dan lapisan sosial sebagai identitas bangsa. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode deskriptif dengan subjek penelitian mahasiswa PGSD program “PERMATA” yang ada di beberapa universitas di Indonesia. Adapun instrumen yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah angket terbuka, wawancara, dokumen, dan catatan lapangan. Penelitian menunjukkan bahwa pembelajaran daring yang dilakukan pada mahaiswa PGSD program pertukaran mahasiswa tanah air nusantara memberikan dampak positif terhadap literasi budaya mahasiswa. Mahasiswa terlihat mudah dalam beradaptasi dengan beragam perbedaan yang ada sesuai dengan bawaan budaya masing masing. Hal ini terlihat dari awal pertemuan pembelajaran, mahasiswa mampu berkomunikasi dengan baik dan menghormati cara bicara dengan intonasi yang beragam sesuai dengan kebiasaan budaya masing-masing, mahasiswa saling berbagi informasi mengenai kebudayaan yang ada di daeahnya, mahasiswa nampak  saling menghormati dan mengahargai ketika saling memberi ide dan pendapat, mahsiswa termotifasi aktif dalam belajar yang terlihat dari cara presentasi yang maksimal ditampilkan pada proses pembelajaran. simpulan dari peneltian ini adalah pembelajaran daring yang dilakukan melalui program permata efektif dalam menumbukan literasi budaya mahaiswa PGSD.
Sapanca Gölü Havzası’nda Arazi Kullanımı ve Mekânsal Değişim
Authors: KAÇMAZ Muhammet , DÖKER Mehmet Fatih
Published: April 2021

Türkiye’nin önemli göl havzalarından biri olan Sapanca Gölü Havzası 1990’lı yılların başlarına kadar kırsal niteliği ile öne çıkmakta iken günümüzde şehirsel faaliyetlerin yoğun olarak yaşandığı bir havza haline gelmiştir. Sapanca Gölü güneyinden TEM otoyolunun geçmesi ile birlikte hız kazanan şehirsel faaliyetlere ek olarak havzanın turizm açısından bir cazibe merkezi haline gelmiş olması havzanın arazi örtüsü ve kullanım yapısında önemli değişikliklere neden olmuştur. Havzada yer alan şehirsel ve kırsal yerleşmelerin genişlemesi, ikinci konut ve turistik tesis yapımının artması havzanın taşıma kapasitesini zorlamakta ve doğal ortamın tahrip edilmesine yol açmaktadır. Bu çalışmada Sapanca Gölü Havzası’nın güncel arazi örtüsü ve kullanım yapısı incelenmiş olup 1985-2020 yılları arasında meydana gelen değişim uydu görüntüleri üzerinden coğrafi bilgi sistemleri ile analiz edilmiştir. Havza içerisinde kullanım oranı 1985 yılında %2,27 olan yerleşim alanları 2020 yılında %8,28 ulaştığı tespit edilmiştir. Havza genelinde nüfus yoğunluğunun km²’ye 250 kişiye kadar çıktığı ve havzanın güneyinde yer alan Sapanca şehrinde ise km²’de 1500 kişiyi bulduğu görülmüştür.
Analyzing Trends in Water Table Elevations at the Marcell Experimental Forest, Minnesota, U.S.A.
Authors: Stockstad Anna , Gray Ella , Sebestyen Stephen , Lany Nina , Kolka Randall , Windmuller-Campione Marcella
Published: April 2021

Water table fluctuations in peatlands are closely coupled with the local climate setting and drive critical ecosystem processes such as nutrient cycling. In Minnesota, USA, peatlands cover ten percent of the surface area, approximately 2.5 million hectares, some of which are actively managed for forest products. To explore the relationship between peatland water tables and precipitation, long-term data (1961 to 2019) were used from the Marcell Experimental Forest in northern Minnesota. Starting in 1961, water table data from seven peatlands, including two types of peatlands (bogs and fens), were measured. We used the Theil-Sen estimator to test for monotonic trends in mean monthly water table elevations for individual peatlands and monthly precipitation. Water levels in bogs were both more variable and had mean water table elevations that were closer to the surface. Individual trends of water table elevations differed among peatlands. Water table elevations increased over time in three of the bogs studied and decreased over time in two of the bogs studied. Trends within fens were notably nonlinear across time. No significant linear trend was found for mean monthly precipitation between 1961 and 2019. These results highlight differences in peatlands types, local physiography, and the importance of understanding how changes in long-term dynamics coupled with changing current conditions will influence the effects of water table fluctuations on ecosystem services. The variability of water table elevations in bogs poses potential difficulties in modeling these ecosystems or creating adaptive management plans. KEYWORDS: Peatlands; Hydrology; Water tables; Bogs; Fens; Monitoring; Minnesota; Climate Change
Axisymmetric Thermal Finite Element Analysis of Effects of Intraocular Projector in the Human Eye
Authors: Stark John , Foster Craig , Yu Charles
Published: April 2021

Millions of people worldwide live with corneal opacity which continues to be one of the leading causes of blindness. Corneal opacity is treatable. However, the surgical methods for treating this condition, such as corneal transplantation and keratoprosthesis, have many complications. The use of an intraocular projector is a promising approach to treat corneal blindness. Like any device using electrical power, an intraocular projection device produces heat, which could potentially damage eye tissue. Australian and international standards state that there cannot be an increase of temperature of 2 °C caused by an implanted device. In order to determine if these standards are met, a 2D axisymmetric thermal analysis of the projector in the human eye is conducted in ANSYS Workbench. With the projector operating at its maximum wattage, our analysis shows that an air gap extension within the projector will help maintain the temperature increase below 2 °C. KEYWORDS: Finite Element Analysis; Eye; Heat Dissipation; Axisymmetric; Thermal Conductivity; Internal Heat Generation; Corneal Blindness; ANSYS; Intraocular Projector
Prime Factors and Divisibility of Sums of Powers of Fibonacci and Lucas Numbers
Authors: Karcher Spirit , Michael Mariah
Published: April 2021

The Fibonacci sequence, whose first terms are f0; 1; 1; 2; 3; 5; : : :g, is generated using the recursive formula Fn+2 = Fn+1 + Fn with F0 = 0 and F1 = 1. This sequence is one of the most famous integer sequences because of its fascinating mathematical properties and connections with other fields such as biology, art, and music. Closely related to the Fibonacci sequence is the Lucas sequence. The Lucas sequence, whose first terms are f2; 1; 3; 4; 7; 11; : : :g, is generated using the recursive formula Ln+2 = Ln+1 + Ln with L0 = 2 and L1 = 1. In this paper, patterns in the prime factors of sums of powers of Fibonacci and Lucas numbers are examined. For example, F2 3n+4 + F2 3n+2 is even for all n 2 N0. To prove these results, techniques from modular arithmetic and facts about the divisibility of Fibonacci and Lucas numbers are utilized. KEYWORDS: Fibonacci Sequence; Lucas Sequence; Modular Arithmetic; Divisibility Sequence
A Survey of Inhibitors for the Main Protease of Coronaviruses with the Potential for Development of Broad-Spectrum Therapeutics
Authors: Sanders Alyssa , Ricci Samuel , Uribe Sarah , Boyle Bridget , Nepper Brian , Nucci Nathaniel
Published: April 2021

The coronaviruses plaguing humanity in the 21st century share much in common: a spontaneous route of origin from wild animals, a propensity to take human life, and, importantly, a highly conserved set of biological machinery necessary for viral replication. Most recently, the SARS-CoV-2 is decimating economies around the world and has claimed over two million human lives, reminding the world of a need for an effective drug against present and future coronaviruses. To date, attempts to repurpose clinically approved antiviral medications show minimal promise, highlighting the need for development of new antiviral drugs. Nucleotide analog inhibitors are a promising therapeutic candidate, but early data from clinical studies suggests these compounds have limited efficacy. However, novel compounds targeting the main protease responsible for critical steps in viral assembly are gaining considerable interest because they offer the potential for broad-spectrum coronavirus therapy. Here, we review the literature regarding potential inhibitors for the main protease of coronaviruses, especially SARS-CoV-2, analyze receptor-drug interactions, and draw conclusions about candidate inhibitors for future outbreaks. Promising candidates for development of a broad-spectrum coronavirus protease inhibitor include the neuraminidase inhibitor 3K, the peptidomimetic inhibitor 11a and 11b, the α-ketoamide inhibitor 13b, the aldehyde prodrug, and the phosphate prodrug developed by Pfizer. In silico and in vitro analyses have shown that these inhibitors strongly interact with the active site of the main protease, and to varying degrees, prevent viral replication via interactions with the largely conserved active site pockets. KEYWORDS: Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus; Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus; Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2; Replicase Polypeptide; Protease; Neuraminidase Inhibitor; Peptidomimetic Inhibitor; α-Ketoamide Inhibitor; Molecular Docking
Molecular Dynamics to Predict Cryo-EM: Capturing Transitions and Short-Lived Conformational States of Biomolecules
Authors: Nierzwicki Łukasz , Palermo Giulia
Published: April 2021

Single-particle cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) has revolutionized the field of the structural biology, providing an access to the atomic resolution structures of large biomolecular complexes in their near-native environment. Today’s cryo-EM maps can frequently reach the atomic-level resolution, while often containing a range of resolutions, with conformationally variable regions obtained at 6 Å or worse. Low resolution density maps obtained for protein flexible domains, as well as the ensemble of coexisting conformational states arising from cryo-EM, poses new challenges and opportunities for Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations. With the ability to describe the biomolecular dynamics at the atomic level, MD can extend the capabilities of cryo-EM, capturing the conformational variability and predicting biologically relevant short-lived conformational states. Here, we report about the state-of-the-art MD procedures that are currently used to refine, reconstruct and interpret cryo-EM maps. We show the capability of MD to predict short-lived conformational states, finding remarkable confirmation by cryo-EM structures subsequently solved. This has been the case of the CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing machinery, whose catalytically active structure has been predicted through both long-time scale MD and enhanced sampling techniques 2 years earlier than cryo-EM. In summary, this contribution remarks the ability of MD to complement cryo-EM, describing conformational landscapes and relating structural transitions to function, ultimately discerning relevant short-lived conformational states and providing mechanistic knowledge of biological function.
Cost-Effectiveness Evaluation of Nearly Zero-Energy Buildings for the Aging of Red Wine
Authors: Gómez-Villarino María Teresa , Barbero-Barrera María del Mar , Mazarrón Fernando R. , Cañas Ignacio
Published: April 2021

Achieving the best energy performance has become an important goal. The European Union has consequently developed legislative measures that introduce the concepts of nearly zero-energy buildings and cost-effectiveness during life-cycle. We use these concepts, looking for the design of energy-efficient wineries, while reducing wine production costs. The research method is based on the monitoring of temperature and humidity of 12 red wine aging rooms of representative construction designs with almost zero energy consumption that together with the economic data obtained from construction cost update, determine a parameter that has been called “construction effectiveness”. This parameter allows the evaluation of the cost–benefit ratio of each of the analyzed constructions. The results obtained demonstrate that adequate conditions can be achieved for the wine aging with zero-energy buildings, although there are notable differences in cost, damping effectiveness, and resulting hygrothermal environment depending on the type of building. The correlation between performance and construction costs shows large differences in cost per unit of damping achieved: 0.5–2.7 €/m2 for temperature and 0.6–5 €/m2 for relative humidity. With a correct design, the differences between typologies can be reduced or even non-existent. The results obtained can be a valuable tool to promote the design of zero-energy warehouses.
Effects of Calcium, Magnesium and Potassium on Sweet Basil Downy Mildew (Peronospora belbahrii)
Authors: Elad Yigal , Kleinman Ziv , Nisan Ziv , Rav-David Dalia , Yermiyahu Uri
Published: April 2021

Downy mildew (Peronospora belbahrii) is a major disease of sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum). We examined the effects of potassium, calcium and magnesium, individually and in combination, on sweet basil downy mildew (SBDM) in potted plants and under commercial-greenhouse conditions over six growing seasons. An increased K concentration in the fertigation solution increased SBDM severity, whereas foliar-applied KCl and K2SO4 suppressed SBDM. The application of higher concentrations of those salts increased the K concentrations in the shoots and significantly alleviated SBDM. Increased concentrations of Ca or Mg in the fertigation solution decreased SBDM severity, as did foliar-applied CaCl2. However, the combination of Ca and Mg did not have any synergistic effect. Foliar-applied K2SO4 provided better disease suppression than some of these treatments. The 3.3 mM Mg + fungicide treatment and the 5.0 mM Mg + fungicide treatment each provided synergistic disease control in one of two experiments. SBDM severity was significantly reduced by MgCl2 and MgSO4 (both 3.3 mM Mg), as compared with the basic Mg fertigation (1.6 mM), with MgCl2 providing better control. The combined Mg salts + fungicide treatments reduced SBDM better than any of those treatments alone. These results demonstrate that macro-elements can contribute to SBDM control.
Successful Insulin Glargine Treatment in Two Pet Guinea Pigs with Suspected Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Kreilmeier-Berger Theresa , Zeugswetter Florian K. , Blohm Klaas-Ole , Schwendenwein Ilse , Baszler Elisabeth , Ploderer Bernadette , Burgener Iwan Anton , Künzel Frank
Published: April 2021

Scientific information on spontaneous type I diabetes mellitus (DM) and treatment modalities in guinea pigs is scarce. As most diabetic guinea pigs are overweight and respond to dietary changes, a disorder resembling type II-DM in humans seems to be most prevalent in this species. In the present report, a nine-month-old female intact guinea pig (GP1) was presented because of a cataract and polyphagia. The physical examinations in GP1 and its littermate, GP2, were unremarkable. Laboratory tests revealed hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, elevated fructosamine concentrations, and glucosuria in GP1 and GP2. Not responding to dietary changes, an insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus was suspected in both animals. Treatment with 0.5 IU of glargine insulin (Lantus®) per guinea pig subcutaneously (s.c.) once daily was initiated in both animals. Monitoring included repeated clinical evaluations and the measurement of plasma glucose and fructosamine concentrations. Capillary glucose concentration was measured using a glucometer, and glucosuria was monitored by dipstick. Blood glucose concentrations decreased quickly in both GPs, and glucosuria resolved. Including several dose adjustments, DM remained controlled for over 1.5 years. Bilateral cataracts and lens-induced uveitis in GP1 were medically managed with only slight progression. This is the first report of guinea pigs with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus that were successfully treated with long-acting basal insulin glargine.
Individual Differences in the Vocal Communication of Malayan Tapirs (Tapirus indicus) Considering Familiarity and Relatedness
Authors: Walb Robin , von Fersen Lorenzo , Meijer Theo , Hammerschmidt Kurt
Published: April 2021

Studies in animal communication have shown that many species have individual distinct calls. These individual distinct vocalizations can play an important role in animal communication because they can carry important information about the age, sex, personality, or social role of the signaler. Although we have good knowledge regarding the importance of individual vocalization in social living mammals, it is less clear to what extent solitary living mammals possess individual distinct vocalizations. We recorded and analyzed the vocalizations of 14 captive adult Malayan tapirs (Tapirus indicus) (six females and eight males) to answer this question. We investigated whether familiarity or relatedness had an influence on call similarity. In addition to sex-related differences, we found significant differences between all subjects, comparable to the individual differences found in highly social living species. Surprisingly, kinship appeared to have no influence on call similarity, whereas familiar subjects exhibited significantly higher similarity in their harmonic calls compared to unfamiliar or related subjects. The results support the view that solitary animals could have individual distinct calls, like highly social animals. Therefore, it is likely that non-social factors, like low visibility, could have an influence on call individuality. The increasing knowledge of their behavior will help to protect this endangered species.
The Efficacy of Plant-Based Bioactives Supplementation to Different Proportion of Concentrate Diets on Methane Production and Rumen Fermentation Characteristics In Vitro
Authors: Ahmed Eslam , Fukuma Naoki , Hanada Masaaki , Nishida Takehiro
Published: April 2021

This In Vitro study was conducted to investigate the impact of plant-bioactives extract (PE), a combination of garlic powder and bitter orange extract, on methane production, rumen fermentation, and digestibility in different feeding models. The dietary treatments were 1000 g grass/kg ration + 0 g concentrate/kg ration (100:0), 80:20, 60:40, 40:60, and 20:80. The PE was supplemented at 200 g/kg of the feed. Each group consisted of 6 replicates. The experiment was performed as an In Vitro batch culture for 24 h at 39 °C. This procedure was repeated in three consecutive runs. The results of this experiment showed that supplementation with PE strongly reduced methane production in all kinds of feeding models (p < 0.001). Its efficacy in reducing methane/digestible dry matter was 44% in the 100:0 diet, and this reduction power increased up to a 69.2% with the inclusion of concentrate in the 20:80 diet. The PE application significantly increased gas and carbon dioxide production and the concentration of ammonia-nitrogen, but decreased the pH (p < 0.001). In contrast, it did not interfere with organic matter and fiber digestibility. Supplementation with PE was effective in altering rumen fermentation toward less acetate and more propionate and butyrate (p < 0.001). Additionally, it improved the production of total volatile fatty acids in all feeding models (p < 0.001). In conclusion, the PE combination showed effective methane reduction by improving rumen fermentation characteristics without exhibiting adverse effects on fiber digestibility. Thus, PE could be used with all kinds of feeding models to effectively mitigate methane emissions from ruminants.
Is Hay for the Birds? Investigating Landowner Willingness to Time Hay Harvests for Grassland Bird Conservation
Authors: Gruntorad Matthew P. , Graham Katherine A. , Arcilla Nico , Chizinski Christopher J.
Published: April 2021

Birds in agricultural environments have exhibited steep global population declines in recent decades, and effective conservation strategies targeting their populations are urgently needed. In grasslands used for hay production, breeding birds’ nest success improves substantially if hay harvests are delayed until after mid-July. However, few studies have investigated private hay producers’ willingness to alter their harvesting practices, which is a critical factor for bird conservation where most land is privately owned, such as in the North American Great Plains. We surveyed Nebraska hay producers to examine whether livestock production, wildlife knowledge, and hunting activity affects their willingness to alter haying practices for bird conservation. The majority (60%) of respondents expressed willingness to delay harvesting hay to allow birds time to nest successfully. Livestock producers and those more knowledgeable about wildlife were more willing to delay hay harvests, whereas active hunters were less willing to do so. Our findings suggest that a majority of private producers show a high potential for engaging in grassland bird conservation activities. Landowners’ willingness to participate in bird conservation programs and actions could be further encouraged through extension and education efforts connecting hay producers with information, support, and funding for bird conservation.
A Short-Term Body Jump® Training Program Improves Physical Fitness and Body Composition in Young Active Women
Authors: Sellés-Pérez Sergio , García-Jaén Miguel , Cortell-Tormo Juan Manuel , Cejuela Roberto
Published: April 2021

(1) Background: Body Jump® is a novel group fitness program with musical support, which is performed rebounding in a minitrampoline. Although the number of practitioners has increased exponentially in recent years, this activity’s short-term effects on physical fitness and body composition in women have not yet been studied. (2) Methods: 27 healthy young women were randomly divided into a Body Jump® group (BJ) and a control group (CG). BJ performed three classes per week for one month. The week before and after the intervention, the anthropometric assessments were carried out to estimate the body composition, and different performance tests were performed to assess the jumping capacity (countermovement jump (CMJ) and squat jump (SJ) tests), the muscular strength (1RM test) and the aerobic fitness (UKK test). (3) Results: VO2 max (p = 0.001), CMJ flight height (p = 0.023), SJ flight height (p = 0.003) and the 1RM value in the half-squat exercise (p = 0.009) were significantly increased in BJ. In CG, there were no statistically significant differences after the intervention period. Regarding the changes in body composition, a significant enhancement in several parameters were found in BJ, such as the sum of skinfolds (p = 0.003) and the percentage of fat mass (p = 0.002), while no changes were found in any of the anthropometric variables in CG. (4) Conclusions: carrying out the Body Jump® program three days per week for one month had positive effects on physical fitness and body composition in a group of healthy young women. This training program can be an effective option for enhancing, in the short term, these fitness parameters and the body composition of these recreational users into the fitness centers.
Time-Continuous Real-Time Trajectory Generation for Safe Autonomous Flight of a Quadrotor in Unknown Environment
Authors: Park Yonghee , Kim Woosung , Moon Hyungpil
Published: April 2021

In this paper, we present an efficient global and local replanning method for a quadrotor to complete a flight mission in a cluttered and unmapped environment. A minimum-snap global path planner generates a global trajectory that comprises some waypoints in a cluttered environment. When facing unexpected obstacles, our method modifies the global trajectory using geometrical planning and closed-form formulation for an analytical solution with 9th-order polynomial. The proposed method provides an analytical solution, not a numerical one, and it is computationally efficient without falling into a local minima problem. In a simulation, we show that the proposed method can fly a quadrotor faster than the numerical method in a cluttered environment. Furthermore, we show in experiments that the proposed method can provide safer and faster trajectory generation than the numerical method in a real environment.
Buckling Analysis of CNTRC Curved Sandwich Nanobeams in Thermal Environment
Authors: Daikh Ahmed Amine , Houari Mohammed Sid Ahmed , Karami Behrouz , Eltaher Mohamed A. , Dimitri Rossana , Tornabene Francesco
Published: April 2021

This paper presents a mathematical continuum model to investigate the static stability buckling of cross-ply single-walled (SW) carbon nanotube reinforced composite (CNTRC) curved sandwich nanobeams in thermal environment, based on a novel quasi-3D higher-order shear deformation theory. The study considers possible nano-scale size effects in agreement with a nonlocal strain gradient theory, including a higher-order nonlocal parameter (material scale) and gradient length scale (size scale), to account for size-dependent properties. Several types of reinforcement material distributions are assumed, namely a uniform distribution (UD) as well as X- and O- functionally graded (FG) distributions. The material properties are also assumed to be temperature-dependent in agreement with the Touloukian principle. The problem is solved in closed form by applying the Galerkin method, where a numerical study is performed systematically to validate the proposed model, and check for the effects of several factors on the buckling response of CNTRC curved sandwich nanobeams, including the reinforcement material distributions, boundary conditions, length scale and nonlocal parameters, together with some geometry properties, such as the opening angle and slenderness ratio. The proposed model is verified to be an effective theoretical tool to treat the thermal buckling response of curved CNTRC sandwich nanobeams, ranging from macroscale to nanoscale, whose examples could be of great interest for the design of many nanostructural components in different engineering applications.
Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality and Artificial Intelligence in Orthopedic Surgery: A Systematic Review
Authors: Longo Umile Giuseppe , De Salvatore Sergio , Candela Vincenzo , Zollo Giuliano , Calabrese Giovanni , Fioravanti Sara , Giannone Lucia , Marchetti Anna , De Marinis Maria Grazia , Denaro Vincenzo
Published: April 2021

Background: The application of virtual and augmented reality technologies to orthopaedic surgery training and practice aims to increase the safety and accuracy of procedures and reducing complications and costs. The purpose of this systematic review is to summarise the present literature on this topic while providing a detailed analysis of current flaws and benefits. Methods: A comprehensive search on the PubMed, Cochrane, CINAHL, and Embase database was conducted from inception to February 2021. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were used to improve the reporting of the review. The Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool and the Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies (MINORS) was used to assess the quality and potential bias of the included randomized and non-randomized control trials, respectively. Results: Virtual reality has been proven revolutionary for both resident training and preoperative planning. Thanks to augmented reality, orthopaedic surgeons could carry out procedures faster and more accurately, improving overall safety. Artificial intelligence (AI) is a promising technology with limitless potential, but, nowadays, its use in orthopaedic surgery is limited to preoperative diagnosis. Conclusions: Extended reality technologies have the potential to reform orthopaedic training and practice, providing an opportunity for unidirectional growth towards a patient-centred approach.
Inhibitory Control on a Stop Signal Task in Tourette Syndrome before and after Deep Brain Stimulation of the Internal Segment of the Globus Pallidus
Authors: Morreale Francesca , Kefalopoulou Zinovia , Zrinzo Ludvic , Limousin Patricia , Joyce Eileen , Foltynie Tom , Jahanshahi Marjan
Published: April 2021

As part of the first randomized double-blind trial of deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the globus pallidus (GPi) in Tourette syndrome, we examined the effect of stimulation on response initiation and inhibition. A total of 14 patients with severe Tourette syndrome were recruited and tested on the stop signal task prior to and after GPi-DBS surgery and compared to eight age-matched healthy controls. Tics were significantly improved following GPi-DBS. The main measure of reactive inhibition, the stop signal reaction time did not change from before to after surgery and did not differ from that of healthy controls either before or after GPi-DBS surgery. This suggests that patients with Tourette syndrome have normal reactive inhibition which is not significantly altered by GPi-DBS.
Built to Last: Functional and Structural Mechanisms in the Moth Olfactory Network Mitigate Effects of Neural Injury
Authors: Delahunt Charles B. , Maia Pedro D. , Kutz J. Nathan
Published: April 2021

Most organisms suffer neuronal damage throughout their lives, which can impair performance of core behaviors. Their neural circuits need to maintain function despite injury, which in particular requires preserving key system outputs. In this work, we explore whether and how certain structural and functional neuronal network motifs act as injury mitigation mechanisms. Specifically, we examine how (i) Hebbian learning, (ii) high levels of noise, and (iii) parallel inhibitory and excitatory connections contribute to the robustness of the olfactory system in the Manduca sexta moth. We simulate injuries on a detailed computational model of the moth olfactory network calibrated to data. The injuries are modeled on focal axonal swellings, a ubiquitous form of axonal pathology observed in traumatic brain injuries and other brain disorders. Axonal swellings effectively compromise spike train propagation along the axon, reducing the effective neural firing rate delivered to downstream neurons. All three of the network motifs examined significantly mitigate the effects of injury on readout neurons, either by reducing injury’s impact on readout neuron responses or by restoring these responses to pre-injury levels. These motifs may thus be partially explained by their value as adaptive mechanisms to minimize the functional effects of neural injury. More generally, robustness to injury is a vital design principle to consider when analyzing neural systems.
Indoor Airflow Distribution in Repository Design: Experimental and Numerical Microclimate Analysis of an Archive
Authors: Kompatscher Karin , Kramer Rick P. , Ankersmit Bart , Schellen Henk L.
Published: April 2021

The majority of cultural heritage is stored in archives, libraries and museum storage spaces. To reduce degradation risks, many archives adopt the use of archival boxes, among other means, to provide the necessary climate control and comply with strict legislation requirements regarding temperature and relative air humidity. A strict ambient indoor climate is assumed to provide adequate environmental conditions near objects. Guidelines and legislation provide requirements for ambient indoor climate parameters, but often do not consider other factors that influence the near-object environment, such as the use of archival boxes, airflow distribution and archival rack placement. This study aimed to provide more insight into the relation between the ambient indoor conditions in repositories and the hygrothermal conditions surrounding the collection. Comprehensive measurements were performed in a case study archive to collect ambient, local and near-object conditions. Both measurements and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling were used to research temperature/relative humidity gradients and airflow distribution with a changing rack orientation, climate control strategy and supply as well as exhaust set-up in a repository. The following conclusions are presented: (i) supplying air from one air handling unit to multiple repositories on different floors leads to small temperature differences between them. Differences in ambient and local climates are noticed; (ii) archival boxes mute and delay variations in ambient conditions as expected—however, thermal radiation from the building envelope may have a large influence on the climate conditions in a box; (iii) adopting night reduction for energy conservation results in an increased influence of the external climate, with adequate insulation, this effect should be mitigated; and (iv) the specific locations of the supply air and extraction of air resulted in a vertical gradient of temperature and insufficient mixing of air, and adequate ventilation strategies should enhance sufficient air mixing in combination with the insulation of external walls, and gradient forming should be reduced.
RGD-Binding Integrins Revisited: How Recently Discovered Functions and Novel Synthetic Ligands (Re-)Shape an Ever-Evolving Field
Authors: Ludwig Beatrice S. , Kessler Horst , Kossatz Susanne , Reuning Ute
Published: April 2021

Integrins have been extensively investigated as therapeutic targets over the last decades, which has been inspired by their multiple functions in cancer progression, metastasis, and angiogenesis as well as a continuously expanding number of other diseases, e.g., sepsis, fibrosis, and viral infections, possibly also Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2). Although integrin-targeted (cancer) therapy trials did not meet the high expectations yet, integrins are still valid and promising targets due to their elevated expression and surface accessibility on diseased cells. Thus, for the future successful clinical translation of integrin-targeted compounds, revisited and innovative treatment strategies have to be explored based on accumulated knowledge of integrin biology. For this, refined approaches are demanded aiming at alternative and improved preclinical models, optimized selectivity and pharmacological properties of integrin ligands, as well as more sophisticated treatment protocols considering dose fine-tuning of compounds. Moreover, integrin ligands exert high accuracy in disease monitoring as diagnostic molecular imaging tools, enabling patient selection for individualized integrin-targeted therapy. The present review comprehensively analyzes the state-of-the-art knowledge on the roles of RGD-binding integrin subtypes in cancer and non-cancerous diseases and outlines the latest achievements in the design and development of synthetic ligands and their application in biomedical, translational, and molecular imaging approaches. Indeed, substantial progress has already been made, including advanced ligand designs, numerous elaborated pre-clinical and first-in-human studies, while the discovery of novel applications for integrin ligands remains to be explored.
Immuno-Oncological Biomarkers for Squamous Cell Cancer of the Head and Neck: Current State of the Art and Future Perspectives
Authors: De Keukeleire Stijn J. , Vermassen Tijl , Hilgert Elien , Creytens David , Ferdinande Liesbeth , Rottey Sylvie
Published: April 2021

The era of immune checkpoint inhibitors has altered the therapeutic landscape in squamous cell cancer of the head and neck (SCCHN). Our knowledge about the tumor microenvironment has fueled the research in SCCHN, leading to several well-known and less-known prognostic and predictive biomarkers. The clinical staging, p16/HPV status, and PD-L1 expression are currently the main tools for assessing the patients’ diagnosis and prognosis. However, several novel biomarkers have been thoroughly investigated, some reaching actual significant clinical contributions. The untangling of the immune infiltrate with the subtyping of tissue-associated tumor infiltrating lymphocytes, tumor-associated macrophages, and circulating blood-based biomarkers are an interesting avenue to be further explored and prospectively assessed. Although PD-L1 expression remains the most important response predictor for immune checkpoint inhibitors, several flaws impede proper assessment such as technical issues, different scoring protocol, and intra-, inter-, and temporal heterogeneity. In addition, the construction of an immune-related gene panel has been proposed as a prognostic and predictive stratification but lacks consensus. Recently, the role of microbioma have also been explored regarding its systemic and antitumor immunity. This review gives a comprehensive overview of the aforementioned topics in SCCHN. To this end, the integration of these clinically advantageous biomarkers via construction of an immunogram or nomogram could be an invaluable tool for SCCHN in future prospects.
Microstructure of Aluminide Coatings Modified by Pt, Pd, Zr and Hf Formed in Low-Activity CVD Process
Authors: Goral Marek , Pytel Maciej , Ochal Kamil , Drajewicz Marcin , Kubaszek Tadeusz , Simka Wojciech , Nieuzyla Lukasz
Published: April 2021

In the present article the doping of aluminide coatings by Pt/Pd as well as Hf or Pd using industrial processes was developed. The different combinations of doping elements were tested as well as their influence on chemical composition of coatings was initially investigated. The Pt and Pd and both Pt + Pd was electroplated on the surface of the MAR M247 nickel superalloy. The Zr or Hf was doped during low activity CVD aluminizing process using industrial Bernex BPX Pro 325S system. The conducted research showed that Pt and Pd formed the (Ni, Pd, Pt) Al solid solution in the outer additive layer. The higher concentration of palladium in the near surface and in the whole additive layer was detected. The platinum was presented below the surface of aluminide coating. The Zr or Hf was detected mainly in the diffusion zone. The low concentration of Zr (about 0.1 wt.%) in the outer zone was observed. The hafnium was detected mainly in the diffusion zone but in the outer additive layer a small concentration of this element was measured. The obtained results showed that formation of three elements (Pd, Pt) + Zr or Hf modified aluminide coating using proposed technology is possible. The structure of all obtained aluminide coatings was typical for a low-activity, high temperature (LAHT) formation process mainly by outward diffusion of Ni from base material.
A Case of Chronic Neutrophilic Leukemia Incidentally Detected by 18F-FDG PET/CT
Authors: Cheon Miju , Yoo Jang , Kim Hae Su , Bae Eunsin
Published: April 2021

Chronic neutrophilic leukemia (CNL) is a rare, potentially aggressive, myeloproliferative neoplasm. To the best of our knowledge, there are no previous reports dealing with 18F-FDG PET findings in CNL. We describe a case of CNL in a 69-year-old male, imaged with 18F-FDG PET/CT at diagnosis and during treatment.
Exploring Environmental and Economic Costs and Benefits of a Forest-Based Circular Economy: A Literature Review
Authors: Lazaridou Dimitra C. , Michailidis Anastasios , Trigkas Marios
Published: April 2021

The role of a forest sector in the transition to a circular economy (CE) is critical. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to summarize the main findings of the most important published articles and to provide insights on the interdisciplinary space at the interface of concepts related to a forest-based CE. Moreover, it attempts to assess the challenges raised from adopting the CE in forest sector. Through a systematic literature review, 69 scientific publications were selected and evaluated by two sights: (i) a descriptive analysis and (ii) a cluster analysis of the keywords related to the forest-based CE. The study highlights the need for additional survey on optimizing the interaction between forest ecosystem services and circular economy. Further discussion is also needed about the relations of the key factors associated with the forest-based circular economy, as they emerged from the cluster analysis and the co-occurrence network map.
Site Experience Enhancement and Perspective in Cultural Heritage Fruition—A Survey on New Technologies and Methodologies Based on a “Four-Pillars” Approach
Authors: Augello Agnese , Infantino Ignazio , Pilato Giovanni , Vitale Gianpaolo
Published: April 2021

This paper deals with innovative fruition modalities of cultural heritage sites. Based on two ongoing experiments, four pillars are considered, that is, User Localization, Multimodal Interaction, User Understanding and Gamification. A survey of the existing literature regarding one or more issues related to the four pillars is proposed. It aims to put in evidence the exploitation of these contributions to cultural heritage. It is discussed how a cultural site can be enriched, extended and transformed into an intelligent multimodal environment in this perspective. This new augmented environment can focus on the visitor, analyze his activity and behavior, and make his experience more satisfying, fulfilling and unique. After an in-depth overview of the existing technologies and methodologies for the fruition of cultural interest sites, the two experiments are described in detail and the authors’ vision of the future is proposed.
Fractal Interpolation Using Harmonic Functions on the Koch Curve
Authors: Ri Song-Il , Drakopoulos Vasileios , Nam Song-Min
Published: April 2021

The Koch curve was first described by the Swedish mathematician Helge von Koch in 1904 as an example of a continuous but nowhere differentiable curve. Such functions are now characterised as fractal since their graphs are in general fractal sets. Furthermore, it can be obtained as the graph of an appropriately chosen iterated function system. On the other hand, a fractal interpolation function can be seen as a special case of an iterated function system thus maintaining all of its characteristics. Fractal interpolation functions are continuous functions that can be used to model continuous signals. An in-depth discussion on the theory of affine fractal interpolation functions generating the Koch Curve by using fractal analysis as well as its recent development including some of the research made by the authors is provided. We ensure that the graph of fractal interpolation functions on the Koch Curve are attractors of an iterated function system constructed by non-constant harmonic functions.