bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of the Outer Surface Air Cooling and WPS Approaches on the Brittle Fracture Margin of WWER RPV
Authors: Zarazovskii Maksym , Dubyk Yaroslav , Filonov Vladyslav , Antonchenko Vitalii , Ishchenko Oleksii
Published: October 2020

This paper presents a results of brittle fracture (BF) assessment of WWER-1000 reactor pressure vessel (RPV) subjected to pressurized thermal shook (PTS).

Work is focused on the two factors affected on the BF safety margin. The first one is the definition of the heat transfer conditions from outer surface of RPV, which is commonly not considered due to the assumption of conservatism. The second one is the warm pre-stressing (WPS) of RPV metal during PTS.

The procedure for the formation of thermal boundary conditions (BC) for the RPV (i.e. lower nozzle forging, cylindrical part and elliptical bottom), reactor supports, as well as for the reactor thermal insulation, is developed. This procedure takes into account the heat transfer due to radiation in the GA-301 room and the presence of forced supply of “cold” air by the ventilation system.

A brief history of WPS implementation in Ukraine is presented. Also, the comparative review of the WPS experience in PWR countries and WPS approaches is made.

The results of fracture mechanics calculations for the three most severe PTS scenarios of the Unit 3 RPV of South-Ukrainian NPP are presented. Wherein, both type of results is demonstrated: with and without consideration of the RPV outer surface heat transfer due to the air-cooling ventilation system.

It is shown that the RPV air cooling consideration: leads to decreasing of the stress intensity factor; provides to satisfaction of the cladding integrity criterion according to VERLIFE-2008 methodology; can justify lifetime of the RPV nozzle region in terms of not to exceed the upper shelf of fracture toughness 200 MPa·m0.5.

At the same time, consideration of the RPV air cooling alongside with the WPS approach, depending on WPS approach considered, can lead as to the decreasing the conservatism of RPV BF assessment, as to the increasing it.

Also, concluded that Ukrainian WPS approach needs to be refined more carefully with consideration of experimental nature of pre-stressing or harmonized with some of the modern ones.
Recent Argonne National Laboratory Estimated Thermal Expansion Coefficients for Reactor Pressure Boundary Base Metal, Similar and Dissimilar Metal Welds
Authors: Mohanty Subhasish , Listwan Joseph
Published: October 2020

The paper presents estimated thermal expansion coefficients of 316SS and 508LAS base, 316SS filler or similar metal weld (SMW), and 316SS-508LAS dissimilar metal weld (DMW) filler and butter weld metals. These base and weld metals are typically used in nuclear reactor pressure boundary components. Accurate estimation of the expansion coefficients of these metals is essential for accurate estimation of thermal-mechanical stress in reactor pressure boundary components. In this paper we present the expansion coefficients of 316SS and 508LAS base, 316SS-SMW filler, and 316SS-508LAS DMW filler and butter weld metals. The coefficients were estimated based on our own experimental data. The corresponding expansion coefficient results and the FE validation results are presented in this paper. We anticipate that these types of results can be used as guidelines for choosing appropriate expansion coefficients for thermal-mechanical stress analysis of safety critical nuclear reactor components.
Investigation on the Effects of Carbon Macro-Segregation of Mechanical Properties Using a Large-Scale Forged Low Alloy Steel for a BWR Reactor Pressure Vessel
Authors: Hayashi Takahiro , Ogawa Takuya , Sumiya Rie , Yamaoka Tetsushi , Tanaka Shigeaki , Hattori Yasuhiro , Mori Atsushi
Published: October 2020

Control of carbon macro-segregation in the steel-making process for large steel forgings is of great importance in order to achieve the material properties and structural reliability required for the pressure vessels of nuclear power plant components. It is well known that high carbon content due to carbon macro-segregation can affect the mechanical properties of steels, leading to decreases in ductility and fracture toughness.

In this study, possible effects of carbon macro-segregation have been examined using a large-scale forged steel “bottom head dome” of a reactor pressure vessel (RPV) manufactured for a recent BWR. Material testing conducted included chemical analyses, tensile tests and Charpy impact tests. In the center part of the concave disk-shaped forged material, carbon content varied slightly in the material thickness direction within the range of carbon content requirement, as expected from the relationship between the solidification and the resultant segregation process in the cast ingot material and the forging process from the ingot to the dome material. The results of each mechanical test also showed full compliance with the properties required in the code regardless of the carbon content at each of the thickness locations examined. All the tests results demonstrated that with the steel-making technology and practice employed, carbon macro-segregation is well controlled to achieve the required material properties even in large-scale forged materials used in BWRs.
Modeling of an atmospheric pressure plasma-liquid anodic interface: Solvated electrons and silver reduction
Authors: Zheng Yashuang , Wang Lijun , Bruggeman Peter
Published: October 2020

Solvated electrons (eaq−) generated by atmospheric pressure plasmas in contact with liquids are a key source of plasma-induced liquid chemistry that enable applications in biotechnology and nanoparticle synthesis. In this paper, we report liquid phase reactive species concentrations near an anodic plasma-liquid interface as described by a fluid model. In particular, the interfacial structures and plasma-induced reactive species in NaCl and AgNO3 solutions as generated by a pulsed plasma are highlighted. The results show that the magnitude and the penetration depth of the eaq− concentration in AgNO3 solution are smaller than that in the NaCl solution due to the scavenger reactions of eaq− by Ag+ and NO3−. The early products of the plasma-induced Ag+ reduction are also presented, and the impact of the current density, the pulse width, and the AgNO3 concentration on the silver reduction is analyzed. It is further shown that a typical OH radical flux present in such plasmas can highly impact the eaq− concentration and the Ag+ reduction while the impact of vacuum ultraviolet radiation, H, and H2O2 is less pronounced.
Antibacterial infection and immune-evasive coating for orthopedic implants
Authors: Chae Kyomin , Jang Woo Young , Park Kijun , Lee Jinhyeok , Kim Hyunchul , Lee Kyoungbun , Lee Chang Kyu , Lee Yeontaek , Lee Soon Hyuck , Seo Jungmok
Published: October 2020

Antibacterial and immune-evasive coating for orthopedic implants reduce infection and infection-induced immune response.
Powering rotary molecular motors with low-intensity near-infrared light
Authors: Pfeifer Lukas , Hoang Nong V. , Scherübl Maximilian , Pshenichnikov Maxim S. , Feringa Ben L.
Published: October 2020

An artificial molecular motor is efficiently powered with near-infrared light compatible with in vivo applications.
Multidrone aerial surveys of penguin colonies in Antarctica
Authors: Shah Kunal , Ballard Grant , Schmidt Annie , Schwager Mac
Published: October 2020

A path-planning algorithm enables autonomous multidrone aerial surveys of Adélie penguin colonies in Antarctica.
Counting penguins with drones
Authors: Popović Marija
Published: October 2020

A multidrone path-planning algorithm enables drones to scout Adélie penguin colonies in Antarctica.
Bispecific CAR T cells have a dual grasp on tumors
Authors: György Bence
Published: October 2020

Bispecific CD19/CD20 chimeric antigen receptor T cells show high efficacy in B cell malignancies.
Draft Genome Sequences of Cetobacterium somerae 2G Large and Two Novel
Cetobacterium
Isolates from Intestines of Channel Catfish (
Ictalurus punctatus
)
Authors: LaFrentz Benjamin R. , LaFrentz Stacey A. , Beck Benjamin H. , Arias Covadonga R.
Published: October 2020

We report the draft genome sequences of
Cetobacterium somerae
2G Large and two
Cetobacterium
isolates, 2A and 8H, which may represent novel species. The isolates were recovered from the intestines of catfish, and the genomes will assist in research to understand their potential use as probiotics in aquaculture.
Hyponatraemia despite isotonic maintenance fluid therapy: a time series intervention study
Authors: Chromek Milan , Jungner Åsa , Rudolfson Niclas , Ley David , Bockenhauer Detlef , Hagander Lars
Published: October 2020

Objective

To examine the prevalence of dysnatraemias among children admitted for paediatric surgery before and after a change from hypotonic to isotonic intravenous maintenance fluid therapy.

Design

Retrospective consecutive time series intervention study.

Setting

Paediatric surgery ward at the Children’s Hospital in Lund, during a 7-year period, 2010–2017.

Patients

All children with a blood sodium concentration measurement during the study period were included. Hypotonic maintenance fluid (40 mmol/L NaCl and 20 mmol/L KCl) was used during the first 3 years of the study (646 patients), and isotonic solution (140 mmol/L NaCl and 20 mmol/L KCl) was used during the following period (807 patients).

Main outcome measures

Primary outcomes were sodium concentration and occurrence of hyponatraemia (<135 mmol/L) or hypernatraemia (>145 mmol/L).

Results

Overall, the change from hypotonic to isotonic intravenous maintenance fluid therapy was associated with a decreased prevalence of hyponatraemia from 29% to 22% (adjusted OR 0.65 (0.51–0.82)) without a significantly increased odds for hypernatraemia (from 3.4% to 4.3%, adjusted OR 1.2 (0.71–2.1)). Hyponatraemia <130 mmol/L decreased from 6.2% to 2.6%, and hyponatraemia <125 mmol/L decreased from 2.0% to 0.5%.

Conclusions

Routine use of intravenous isotonic maintenance fluids was associated with lower prevalence of hyponatraemia, although hyponatraemia still occurred in over 20% of patients. We propose that the composition and the volume of administered fluid need to be addressed.
Paediatric snakebite envenoming: recognition and management of cases
Authors: Le Geyt Jacqueline , Pach Sophie , Gutiérrez José María , Habib Abdulrazaq Garba , Maduwage Kalana Prasad , Hardcastle Timothy Craig , Hernández Diaz Roger , Avila-Aguero María Luisa , Ya Kyaw Thu , Williams David , Halbert Jay
Published: October 2020

Snakebite in children can often be severe or potentially fatal, owing to the lower volume of distribution relative to the amount of venom injected, and there is potential for long-term sequelae. In the second of a two paper series, we describe the pathophysiology of snakebite envenoming including the local and systemic effects. We also describe the diagnosis and management of snakebite envenoming including prehospital first aid and definitive medical and surgical care.
Is patellofemoral pain preventable? A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials
Authors: Culvenor Adam G , van Middelkoop Marienke , Macri Erin M , Crossley Kay M
Published: October 2020

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness of interventions to reduce the risk of incident patellofemoral pain.

Design

Systematic review and meta-analysis, with strength of evidence evaluated separately for each intervention type.

Data sources

MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Web of Science and SPORTDiscus.

Eligibility criteria for selecting studies

Randomised controlled trials evaluating the effectiveness of interventions to reduce patellofemoral pain risk compared with a control/non-exposed group.

Results

Thirteen trials of mostly military recruits and young athletes analysed six different interventions. There was low certainty evidence from two trials (227 participants) that patellofemoral braces worn during physical activity (compared with no brace) effectively reduced the risk of patellofemoral pain (risk ratio (RR) 0.40, 95% CI 0.22 to 0.73; I
2
=24.0%). There was low certainty evidence from one trial (320 participants) that running technique retraining to (run softer) reduced patellofemoral pain risk (RR 0.21, 95% CI 0.07 to 0.60). There was low certainty evidence from four trials (3364 participants) that multicomponent (strengthening/neuromuscular) exercise programmes did not significantly reduce the risk of patellofemoral pain (RR 0.49, 95% CI 0.18 to 1.36; I
2
=64.9%), although broad CIs may reflect exercise dose variations among studies. There was very low certainty evidence from four trials (2314 participants) that foot orthoses (compared with flat inserts/no orthosis) did not significantly reduce the risk of patellofemoral pain (RR 0.63, 95% CI 0.35 to 1.13; I
2
=0.0%). Static stretching and a running programme that progressed intensity (compared with volume) did not significantly influence patellofemoral pain risk (single studies).

Conclusion

There is low-level evidence that patellofemoral braces and running technique retraining can reduce the risk of patellofemoral pain by 60%–79%.
Glycolytic overload-driven dysfunction of periodontal ligament fibroblasts in high glucose concentration, corrected by glyoxalase 1 inducer
Authors: Ashour Amal , Xue Mingzhan , Al-Motawa Maryam , Thornalley Paul J , Rabbani Naila
Published: October 2020

Introduction

Patients with diabetes have increased risk of periodontal disease, with increased risk of weakening of periodontal ligament and tooth loss. Periodontal ligament is produced and maintained by periodontal ligament fibroblasts (PDLFs). We hypothesized that metabolic dysfunction of PDLFs in hyperglycemia produces an accumulation of the reactive glycating agent, methylglyoxal (MG), leading to increased formation of the major advanced glycation endproduct, MG-H1 and PDLF dysfunction. The aim of this study was to assess if there is dicarbonyl stress and functional impairment of human PDLFs in primary culture in high glucose concentration—a model of hyperglycemia, to characterize the metabolic drivers of it and explore remedial intervention by the glyoxalase 1 inducer dietary supplement,trans-resveratrol and hesperetin combination (tRES-HESP).

Research design and methods

Human PDLFs were incubated in low and high glucose concentration in vitro. Metabolic and enzymatic markers of MG and glucose control were quantified and related changes in the cytoplasmic proteome and cell function—binding to collagen-I, assessed. Reversal of PDLF dysfunction by tRES-HESP was explored.

Results

In high glucose concentration cultures, there was a ca. twofold increase in cellular MG, cellular protein MG-H1 content and decreased attachment of PDLFs to collagen-I. This was driven by increased hexokinase-2 linked glucose metabolism and related increased MG formation. Proteomics analysis revealed increased abundance of chaperonins, heat shock proteins (HSPs), Golgi-to-endoplasmic reticulum transport and ubiquitin E3 ligases involved in misfolded protein degradation in high glucose concentration, consistent with activation of the unfolded protein response by increased misfolded MG-modified proteins. PDLF dysfunction was corrected by tRES-HESP.

Conclusions

Increased hexokinase-2 linked glucose metabolism produces dicarbonyl stress, increased MG-modified protein, activation of the unfolded protein response and functional impairment of PDLFs in high glucose concentration. tRES-HESP resolves this at source by correcting increased glucose metabolism and may be of benefit in prevention of diabetic periodontal disease.
Bridging research integrity and global health epidemiology (BRIDGE) statement: guidelines for good epidemiological practice
Authors: Alba Sandra , Verdonck Kristien , Lenglet Annick , Rumisha Susan F , Wienia Martijn , Teunissen Imre , Straetemans Masja , Mendoza Walter , Jeannetot Daniel , Weibel Daniel , Mayanja-Kizza Harriet , Juvekar Sanjay
Published: October 2020

Background

Research integrity and research fairness have gained considerable momentum in the past decade and have direct implications for global health epidemiology. Research integrity and research fairness principles should be equally nurtured to produce high-quality impactful research—but bridging the two can lead to practical and ethical dilemmas. In order to provide practical guidance to researchers and epidemiologist, we set out to develop good epidemiological practice guidelines specifically for global health epidemiology, targeted at stakeholders involved in the commissioning, conduct, appraisal and publication of global health research.

Methods

We developed preliminary guidelines based on targeted online searches on existing best practices for epidemiological studies and sought to align these with key elements of global health research and research fairness. We validated these guidelines through a Delphi consultation study, to reach a consensus among a wide representation of stakeholders.

Results

A total of 45 experts provided input on the first round of e-Delphi consultation and 40 in the second. Respondents covered a range of organisations (including for example academia, ministries, NGOs, research funders, technical agencies) involved in epidemiological studies from countries around the world (Europe: 19; Africa: 10; North America: 7; Asia: 5; South-America: 3 Australia: 1). A selection of eight experts were invited for a face-to-face meeting. The final guidelines consist of a set of 6 standards and 42 accompanying criteria including study preparation, protocol development, data collection, data management, data analysis, dissemination and communication.

Conclusion

While guidelines will not by themselves guard global health from questionable and unfair research practices, they are certainly part of a concerted effort to ensure not only mutual accountability between individual researchers, their institutions and their funders but most importantly their joint accountability towards the communities they study and society at large.
Factors associated with head circumference and indices of cognitive development in early childhood
Authors: Nicolaou Laura , Ahmed Tahmeed , Bhutta Zulfiqar Ahmed , Bessong Pascal , Kosek Margaret , Lima Aldo A M , Shrestha Sanjaya , Chandyo Ram , Mduma Estomih R , Murray-Kolb Laura , Morgan Brooks , Grigsby Matthew R , Checkley William
Published: October 2020

Background

While head circumference (HC) has been related to intracranial volume and brain size, its association with cognitive function remains unclear. We sought to understand the relationship among various biological and socioeconomic risk factors, HC and cognitive development.

Methods

We analysed data across resource-poor settings in Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Peru, South Africa and Tanzania from the Etiology, Risk Factors and Interactions of Enteric Infections and Malnutrition and the Consequences for Child Health and Development longitudinal birth cohort study. Participating children were enrolled and followed up between 2009 and 2014. A final sample of 1210 children aged 0–24 months were included in the analyses. The main outcomes were HC for age Z-score and cognitive, gross motor and language scores from Bayley Scales of Infant Development-III tests. Length, weight and HC were measured monthly, and cognitive tests were administered at 6, 15 and 24 months of age. To disentangle the associations between risk factors and HC from linear growth and to distinguish the direct and indirect effects of these risk factors on cognitive function, we conducted mediation analysis using longitudinal models to account for all data measured during follow-up.

Results

Average HC-for-age Z-score (HCAZ) was −0.54 (95% CI −0.47 to −0.62) near birth and −1.01 (95% CI −0.94 to −1.08) at 24 months. Children with higher enrolment weight (p<0.0001), higher socioeconomic score (p=0.00037) and taller mothers (p=0.00084) had higher HCAZ at all ages, while enteropathogen infection (p=0.013) and more febrile episodes (p=0.013) were associated with lower HCAZ. The associations between HCAZ and enrolment weight-for-age, maternal height, socioeconomic status or pathogen burden were partly mediated through their associations with length-for-age. HCAZ showed no association with cognitive, gross motor or language skills at 6, 15 and 24 months of age.

Conclusions

The main risk factors associated with HC are similar to those associated with body length, and HC is not related to cognitive function.
Patient-reported feasibility of chest and thumb ECG after cryptogenic stroke in Sweden: an observational study
Authors: Magnusson Peter , Lyren Adam , Mattsson Gustav
Published: October 2020

Objectives

The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility, based on a questionnaire, of the chest and thumb ECG system Coala Heart Monitor in patients who recently had a stroke.

Design

Observational study.

Setting

Two stroke units, Region Gävleborg, Sweden.

Participants and interventions

This study, Transient ECG Assessment in Stroke Evaluation (TEASE), included patients who had a stroke between 2017 and 2019. Patients eligible for anticoagulation in the presence of atrial fibrillation were scheduled for 28 days monitoring.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The questionnaire regarding feasibility of monitoring included seven questions, using a 100 mm Visual Analogue Scale which covered overall satisfaction, technical feasibility, remember to monitor, physical application, feeling of security, help from others and recommendation to others. A lower score indicated better outcome.

Results

The prespecified number of 100 patients underwent the monitoring and 83 out of the 97 alive patients returned the questionnaire (response rate 85.6%). The median age was 69.5 years, mean CHA2DS2-VASc score was 4.4±1.3 points and 59.0% were men (n=49). The median time from index stroke to start of monitoring was 7.0 days. Patients performed on average 90.1%±15.0% of scheduled ECG-transmissions. In all seven questions, the median score ranged from 4 to 8. The vast majority reported acceptable outcomes, that is, the 95th percentile ranged from 30 to 54. There was no significant difference between men and women with regard to any of the seven questions (p values ranging from 0.117 to 0.849). Two of the seven outcome scores correlated significantly to patient age (Spearman’s r=−0.238 and r=−0.308, and p values 0.031 and 0.005 for ‘overall satisfaction’ and ‘remember to monitor’, respectively).

Conclusion

In stroke survivors, chest and thumb ECG two times per day over a period of 4 weeks is feasible from a patient’s perspective. The Coala Heart Monitor provides a valuable and convenient tool for monitoring after stroke.

Trial registration number

NCT03301662.
Best practice when working with suicidal behaviour and self-harm in primary care: a qualitative exploration of young people’s perspectives
Authors: Bellairs-Walsh India , Perry Yael , Krysinska Karolina , Byrne Sadhbh J. , Boland Alexandra , Michail Maria , Lamblin Michelle , Gibson Kerry L. , Lin Ashleigh , Li Tina Yutong , Hetrick Sarah , Robinson Jo
Published: October 2020

Objectives

General practitioners (GPs) have a key role in supporting young people who present with suicidal behaviour/self-harm. However, little is known about young people’s opinions and experiences related to GPs’ practices for such presentations, and their decisions to disclose suicidal behaviour/self-harm to GPs. Additionally, existing guidelines for the management of suicide risk and/or self-harm have not incorporated young people’s perspectives. This study aimed to explore young people’s views and experiences related to the identification, assessment and care of suicidal behaviour and self-harm in primary care settings with GPs.

Design, setting and participants

Two qualitative focus groups were conducted in Perth, Western Australia, with 10 young people in total (Mage = 20.67 years; range: 16–24). Data were collected using a semistructured, open-ended interview schedule and analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Five major themes were identified from the focus groups. (1) Young people wanted a collaborative dialogue with GPs, which included being asked about suicidal behaviour/self-harm, informed of treatment processes and having autonomy in decision making; (2) young people were concerned with a loss of privacy when disclosing suicidal behaviour/self-harm; (3) young people viewed labels and assessments as problematic and reductionist—disliking the terms ‘risk’ and ‘risk assessment’, and assessment approaches that are binary and non-holistic; (4) young people highlighted the importance of GPs’ attitudes, with a genuine connection, attentiveness and a non-judgemental demeanour seen as paramount; and (5) young people wanted to be provided with practical support and resources, followed-up, and for GPs to be competent when working with suicidal behaviour/self-harm presentations.

Conclusions

Our study identified several concerns and recommendations young people have regarding the identification, assessment and care of suicidal behaviour/self-harm in primary care settings. Taken together, these findings may inform the development of resources for GPs, and support progress in youth-oriented best practice.
Tailored smartphone intervention to promote healthy eating among Brazilian adolescents: a randomised controlled trial protocol
Authors: Melo Giselle Rhaisa , Correa Lima Stefany , M dos Santos Chagas Carolina , Nakano Eduardo Y , Toral Natacha
Published: October 2020

Introduction

Adolescent eating patterns are characterised by high consumption of unhealthy foods, which has resulted in an increasing prevalence of overweight and chronic diseases. It is crucial to promote healthy eating habits, and nutritional interventions based on the transtheoretical model have been found to be especially effective. Mobile health strategies also seem promising for adolescents. This study aims to outline a smartphone intervention via WhatsApp for adolescents to promote healthy eating consumption, better nutritional knowledge, self-efficacy in the adoption of healthy practices and progress through the stages of change.

Methods and analysis

There will be three distinct groups in this randomised study: a general intervention group (GG), in which the participants will receive the same healthy eating messages, based on the Brazilian food guide; a tailored intervention group (TG), in which the participants will receive healthy eating messages based on their stage of change; and a control group (CG), in which participants will receive messages on a different theme. Possession of a smartphone, use of WhatsApp and being a senior student (16–19 years) from a public school of the Federal District of Brazil will be the study’s inclusion criteria. Rural schools will be excluded. The sample size estimated is 390 individuals: 38 in the GG, 314 in the TG and 38 in the CG. The intervention will last 6 weeks, with a daily message sent to the students. We will investigate nutritional knowledge, self-efficacy in the adoption of healthy eating practices, food consumption and stages of change using preintervention and postintervention questionnaires. Memorisation of the messages will be also assessed.

Ethics and dissemination

The study was approved by the University of Brasília, School of Health Sciences and Research Ethics Committee. At the end of the study, the participating schools will receive a printed report with the main results of the intervention.

Trial registration number

RBR-5b9jk7.
Lower limb MSK injuries among school-aged rugby and football players: a systematic review
Authors: Anderson David Stewart , Cathcart John , Wilson Iseult , Hides Julie , Leung Felix , Kerr Daniel
Published: October 2020

Objective

The objective of this systematic review was to explore the incidence of lower limb musculoskeletal (MSK) injuries sustained by rugby union, rugby league, soccer, Australian Rules and Gaelic football players under 18 years. The review sought to identify the mechanisms and types of injury sustained and to compare between sports.

Design

This systematic review focused on the incidence of lower limb injury in adolescent team sports that involved running and kicking a ball. A literature search of studies published prior to January 2020 was conducted using SportDiscus, Medline and PubMed databases. The Standard Quality Assessment Criteria appraisal tool was used to assess the quality of each article included in the review. Two or more authors independently reviewed all papers.

Results

Sixteen papers met the inclusion criteria; prospective cohort (N=14), retrospective (n=1) and longitudinal (n=1). These studies investigated injuries in rugby union and rugby league (n=10), football (soccer) (n=3), Australian Rules (n=2) and Gaelic football (n=1). There were a total of 55 882 participants, aged 7–19 years old, who reported 6525 injuries. The type, site and mechanisms of injury differed across sports.

Lower limb injuries were common in adolescent rugby, soccer, Gaelic football and Australian Rules football players, however these studies may not fully reflect the true injury burden where recurrent and overuse injuries have not been considered. There were differences between sports in the mechanisms, types and severity of injury.
Initial impact of COVID-19’s stay-at-home order on motor vehicle traffic and crash patterns in Connecticut: an interrupted time series analysis
Authors: Doucette Mitchell L , Tucker Andrew , Auguste Marisa E , Watkins Amy , Green Christa , Pereira Flavia E , Borrup Kevin T , Shapiro David , Lapidus Garry
Published: October 2020

Introduction

Understanding how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted our health and safety is imperative. This study sought to examine the impact of COVID-19’s stay-at-home order on daily vehicle miles travelled (VMT) and MVCs in Connecticut.

Methods

Using an interrupted time series design, we analysed daily VMT and MVCs stratified by crash severity and number of vehicles involved from 1 January to 30 April 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020. MVC data were collected from the Connecticut Crash Data Repository; daily VMT estimates were obtained from StreetLight Insight’s database. We used segmented Poisson regression models, controlling for daily temperature and daily precipitation.

Results

The mean daily VMT significantly decreased 43% in the post stay-at-home period in 2020. While the mean daily counts of crashes decreased in 2020 after the stay-at-home order was enacted, several types of crash rates increased after accounting for the VMT reductions. Single vehicle crash rates significantly increased 2.29 times, and specifically single vehicle fatal crash rates significantly increased 4.10 times when comparing the pre-stay-at-home and post-stay-at-home periods.

Discussion

Despite a decrease in the number of MVCs and VMT, the crash rate of single vehicles increased post stay-at-home order enactment in Connecticut after accounting for reductions in VMT.
In pancreatic cancer, chemotherapy increases antitumor responses to tumor-associated antigens and potentiates DNA vaccination
Authors: Mandili Giorgia , Curcio Claudia , Bulfamante Sara , Follia Laura , Ferrero Giulio , Mazza Emanuela , Principe Moitza , Cordero Francesca , Satolli Maria Antonietta , Spadi Rosella , Evangelista Andrea , Giordano Daniele , Viet Duy , Cappello Paola , Novelli Francesco
Published: October 2020

Background

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) is an almost incurable tumor that is mostly resistant to chemotherapy (CT). Adaptive immune responses to tumor-associated antigens (TAA) have been reported, but immunotherapy (IT) clinical trials have not yet achieved any significant increase in survival, confirming the suppressive environment of PDA. As CT has immune-modulating properties, we investigated the effect of gemcitabine (GEM) in antitumor effector responses to TAA in patients with PDA.

Methods

The IgG antibody repertoire in patients with PDA before and after CT was profiled by serological proteome analysis and ELISA and their ability to activate complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) was measured. Peripheral T cells were stimulated in vitro with recombinant TAA, and specific proliferation, IFN-γ/IL-10 and CD8+/Treg ratios were measured. Mice that spontaneously developed PDA were treated with GEM and inoculated with an ENO1 (α−Enolase) DNA vaccine. In some experimental groups, the effect of depleting CD4, CD8 and B cells by specific antibodies was also evaluated.

Results

CT increased the number of TAA recognized by IgG and their ability to activate CDC. Evaluation of the IFN-γ/IL-10 ratio and CD8+/Treg ratios revealed that CT treatment shifted T cell responses to ENO1, G3P (glyceraldheyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase), K2C8 (keratin, type II cytoskeletal 8) and FUBP1 (far upstream binding protein 1), four of the most recognized TAA, from regulatory to effector. In PDA mice models, treatment with GEM prior to ENO1 DNA vaccination unleashed CD4 antitumor activity and strongly impaired tumor progression compared with mice that were vaccinated or GEM-treated alone.

Conclusions

Overall, these data indicate that, in PDA, CT enhances immune responses to TAA and renders them suitable targets for IT.
Genetic characterisation of sarcomatoid carcinomas reveals multiple novel actionable mutations and identifies KRAS mutation as a biomarker of poor prognosis
Authors: Ding Ying , Shao Yang , Na Chenglong , Yin Jiani C , Hua Hongjin , Tao Ran , Jiang Yue , Hu Ran , He Xiao , Miao Chen , Zhu Dongqin , Zhang Zhihong
Published: October 2020

Background

Sarcomatoid component occurs in various epithelial malignancies and is associated with an aggressive disease course and poor clinical outcome. As it is largely rare, the molecular events underlying sarcomatoid carcinomas (SCs) remain poorly characterised. Here, we performed targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) on patients with surgically resected SCs comprising distinct tissues of origin.

Methods

A total of 71 patients with pathological diagnosis of sarcomatoid carcinomas and underwent surgery were retrospectively enrolled in this study. Overall survival (OS) was defined as the time from surgery to death from any cause. Patients alive or lost to follow-up were censored. Genomic DNA from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded samples was extracted for NGS and tumour mutation burden (TMB) analysis.

Results

In general, SCs occurred more commonly in males, except those of the gallbladder. SCs of the lung and the larynx were associated with a higher proportion of smokers (p=0.0015). Alterations in TP53, RB1, TERT and KRAS were highly frequent, with KRAS mutations being a biomarker of poor prognosis (median OS=8 vs 16 months, p=0.03). Multiple alterations in potentially actionable genes, including ROS1 and NTRK1 fusions and ERBB2 amplification, were detected in the extra-pulmonary cohort. A relatively high proportion (30%) of patients with extra-pulmonary SC had high TMB, with a median of 5.39 mutations per Mb. Lastly, copy number variations were common in SCs, and were non-overlapping between the primary and metastatic tumours.

Conclusion

Taken together, our results suggest that comprehensive genetic testing may be necessary to inform treatment options and identify prognostic biomarkers.
Exposure to occupational hazards and risk of sinonasal epithelial cancer: results from an extended Italian case–control study
Authors: d’Errico Angelo , Zajacova Jana , Cacciatore Anna , Alfonzo Santo , Beatrice Fabio , Ricceri Fulvio , Valente Guido
Published: October 2020

Objectives

There is sufficient evidence for a causal association of sinonasal epithelial cancers (SNEC) only for exposure to wood and leather dusts, nickel compounds and employment in isopropyl alcohol production. The aim of this study was to assess whether other occupational hazards are associated with the risk of SNEC for the main histologic types, namely adenocarcinoma (AD) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).

Methods

The study population included 375 incident SNEC cases collected from 1996 to 2014 (79% of all diagnosed SNEC) throughout the Piedmont region by the regional Sinonasal Cancer Registry, and 408 hospital controls. Exposure to 17 occupational agents was assigned through expert assessment based on interviews to the subjects on jobs held throughout their working life. The relationship of SNEC with ever and cumulative exposure to the hazards was assessed through unconditional logistic regression models adjusted for age, sex, area of residence, smoking habit, year of enrolment and coexposures.

Results

AD was associated with both ever and cumulative exposure to wood dust, leather dust and organic solvents, and with cumulative exposure to textiles dusts. SCC risk was significantly increased by ever exposure to nickel, chromium and welding fumes, as well as by cumulative exposure to welding fumes, arsenic and organic solvents. A mixed group of other histological types was associated with both ever and cumulative exposure to wood dust and textile dusts.

Conclusions

The associations of SNEC with wood dust, leather dust and nickel were confirmed, while some new associations were observed for other hazards, which merit further investigation.
Lung cancer risk in painters: results from the SYNERGY pooled case–control study consortium
Authors: Guha Neela , Bouaoun Liacine , Kromhout Hans , Vermeulen Roel , Brüning Thomas , Behrens Thomas , Peters Susan , Luzon Véronique , Siemiatycki Jack , Xu Mengting , Kendzia Benjamin , Guenel Pascal , Luce Danièle , Karrasch Stefan , Wichmann Heinz-Erich , Consonni Dario , Landi Maria Teresa , Caporaso Neil E , Gustavsson Per , Plato Nils , Merletti Franco , Mirabelli Dario , Richiardi Lorenzo , Jöckel Karl-Heinz , Ahrens Wolfgang , Pohlabeln Hermann , TSE Lap Ah , Yu Ignatius Tak-Sun , Tardón Adonina , Boffetta Paolo , Zaridze David , 't Mannetje Andrea , Pearce Neil , Davies Michael P A , Lissowska Jolanta , Świątkowska Beata , McLaughlin John , Demers Paul A , Bencko Vladimir , Foretova Lenka , Janout Vladimir , Pándics Tamás , Fabianova Eleonora , Mates Dana , Forastiere Francesco , Bueno-de-Mesquita Bas , Schüz Joachim , Straif Kurt , Olsson Ann
Published: October 2020

Objectives

We evaluated the risk of lung cancer associated with ever working as a painter, duration of employment and type of painter by histological subtype as well as joint effects with smoking, within the SYNERGY project.

Methods

Data were pooled from 16 participating case–control studies conducted internationally. Detailed individual occupational and smoking histories were available for 19 369 lung cancer cases (684 ever employed as painters) and 23 674 age-matched and sex-matched controls (532 painters). Multivariable unconditional logistic regression models were adjusted for age, sex, centre, cigarette pack-years, time-since-smoking cessation and lifetime work in other jobs that entailed exposure to lung carcinogens.

Results

Ever having worked as a painter was associated with an increased risk of lung cancer in men (OR 1.30; 95% CI 1.13 to 1.50). The association was strongest for construction and repair painters and the risk was elevated for all histological subtypes, although more evident for small cell and squamous cell lung cancer than for adenocarcinoma and large cell carcinoma. There was evidence of interaction on the additive scale between smoking and employment as a painter (relative excess risk due to interaction >0).

Conclusions

Our results by type/industry of painter may aid future identification of causative agents or exposure scenarios to develop evidence-based practices for reducing harmful exposures in painters.
The challenge of environmental sustainability in radiology training and potential solutions
Authors: Peters Seren , Burrows Susan , Jenkins Paul
Published: October 2020

The environmental impact of training has been poorly recognised for many years. With the emergence of high-profile climate activists and a wider appreciation of the need for sustainable healthcare, training within radiology can no longer be excused from its responsibility to consider the environment in its actions. In this paper, we aim to evaluate the environmental impact of the travel undertaken by trainees within the Peninsula training programme, with the aim of developing practices and providing suggestions (evidence-based where possible) on how to improve the impact on the environment of trainee travel. We envisage that many of the lessons and suggestions may be transferrable to other training schemes in the UK and further afield. During the early months of 2020, in addition to the environmental crisis, COVID-19 escalated to a pandemic resulting in the alteration of working practices across the UK (and the rest of the world). This led to many environmentally beneficial working practices being adopted in Radiology in the South West Peninsula Deanery, and throughout this paper we have evaluated these changes and used our collective experience of these to inform our suggestions on how to improve the environmental sustainability of Medical and Radiological training.
Changes in responses to nicotine vaping product warnings and leaflets in England compared with Canada, the US and Australia: findings from the 2016–2018 ITC Four Country Smoking and Vaping Surveys
Authors: Taylor Eve Violet , East Katherine A , McNeill Ann , Cummings Michael , Thrasher James , Fong Geoffrey T , Quah Anne C K , McDermot Máirtín , Li Grace , Borland Ron , Hammond David , Aleyan Sarah , Hitchman Sara C
Published: October 2020

Background and aims

In May 2017, black-and-white text nicotine addiction warning labels (‘warnings’) and health and safety leaflets (‘leaflets’) became mandatory for nicotine vaping products (NVPs) in England, in accordance with the European Union’s Tobacco Products Directive. We compared changes over time in noticing warnings and leaflets, recall of warnings about nicotine and concerns about using NVP due to noticing warnings in England, compared with Canada, the US and Australia, where no warnings and leaflets were mandated.

Design

19 005 adult (aged 18+) NVP users, smokers and quitters of cigarettes and NVP from the 2016 and 2018 International Tobacco Control Four Country Smoking and Vaping Surveys in England, Canada, the US and Australia, recruited via probability and non-probability sampling.

Findings

Noticing warnings increased in England from 4.9% (2016) to 9.4% (2018) (adjusted OR/AOR=1.64, 95% CI=1.15–2.36); this change was larger than changes in Canada (AOR=2.51, 95% CI=1.71–3.69) and the US (AOR=2.22, 95% CI=1.45–3.39). Recall of a nicotine warning increased in England from 86% (2016) to 94.9% (2018) (AOR=5.50, 95% CI=1.57–19.27) but not significantly elsewhere. Noticing leaflets increased in England from 14.6% (2016) to 19.1% (2018) (AOR=1.42, 95% CI=1.15–1.74); this change was larger than in Canada (AOR=1.42, 95% CI=1.12–1.79), the US (AOR=1.55, 95% CI=1.17–2.06) and Australia (AOR=1.51, 95% CI=1.02–2.22). Among those noticing warnings, concern about NVP use did not change significantly between 2016 and 2018 (all countries p>0.081).

Conclusions

Introduction of mandatory NVP warnings and leaflets in England was associated with small increases in noticing them but not with changes in concerns about NVP use.
Investigation of ambient noise, surface quality improvements, and friction characteristics of different asphalt surfaces in Alberta, Canada
Authors: Newstead Brett , Hashemian Leila , Bayat Alireza , Stuart Clarence
Published: October 2020

To determine how pavement noise and grip may be affected by pavement treatment type, a test section was constructed on a major arterial roadway in St. Albert, Alberta. This test section was used to compare the noise and friction differences of a microsurfacing layer, stone mastic asphalt (SMA), and high traffic asphalt (HT) utilizing an onboard sound intensity (OBSI) device, roadside noise meters, and a grip tester. The results of the grip tests revealed that SMA and HT had little effect on improving friction in the corridor, while microsurfacing improved the corridor grip by 15%. From noise testing, it was found that HT provided the best immediate noise attenuation compared to SMA and microsurfacing.
Tunneling and multiphoton ionization of atoms in two-color linear and circular laser fields and possibility of coherent polarization control of terahertz waves
Authors: Rylyuk V. M.
Published: October 2020

The tunneling and multiphoton ionization of atoms in an intense two-color linearly and circularly polarized laser fields are discussed in the Keldysh theory framework. We use the “imaginary-time” method, where tunneling of the photoelectron is described by the classical equations of motion but with purely imaginary “time.” Together with using of the saddle-point method, this allows to obtain the dependence of the total ionization rate and the net photoelectron current, generated due to the interaction of an intense two-color laser field with an atom, on the ratio of the second and fundamental harmonic amplitudes, their relative phase and an angle between harmonics. Application of the “imaginary-time” method also allows us to specify the parameters maximizing the net photocurrent and to determine the Coulomb correction to the ionization rate. We investigate the properties of polarization and spectral intensity of terahertz (THz) radiation and also the possibility of the coherent control of THz waves polarization in two-color scheme, through the relative phase between harmonics. We theoretically demonstrate that the amplification of THz radiation in the case of parallel co-rotating circular laser pulses is greater than for a combination of circularly and linearly polarized harmonics and provides the most promising conditions for increasing the efficiency of THz emission and coherent control of the THz beam polarization.
Flow and thermal management of MHD Cross nanofluids over a thin needle with auto catalysis chemical reactions
Authors: Chu Yu-Ming , Khan M. Ijaz , Ur Rehman M. Israr , Kadry Seifedine , Nayak M. K.
Published: October 2020

This research work concerns the investigation of electrically conducting stagnation point flow, heat and mass transport of magneto-Cross nanofluids towards a moving and stretched surface of thin needle. The Buongiorno nanofluid model is incorporated to model the governing expressions. The flow is conducted electrically and generated through stretching impact. Internal diffusion of particle, homogenous–heterogeneous reactions and radiative heat flux effects are utilized to examine the behavior of heat and mass transport on the surface of thin needle. Suitable similarity variables and boundary layer approximations are used to turn into dimensionless one. After that, numerical outcomes are computed by a Shooting method (bvp4c) package in MATLAB. The incentives of sundry relevant parameters on the flow field, skin friction coefficient, heat transfer rate, temperature field and concentration distribution are portrayed via graphical tactic and have been elucidated in detail. The outcomes indicate that the temperature distribution is more versus rising values of radiative heat flux, magnetic parameter and Eckert number.
Characterizing some polarized Fano fibrations via Hilbert curves
Authors: Lanteri Antonio , Tironi Andrea Luigi
Published: October 2020

The Hilbert curve of a complex polarized manifold [Formula: see text] is the complex affine plane curve of degree [Formula: see text] defined by the Hilbert-like polynomial [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] is the canonical bundle of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are regarded as complex variables. A natural expectation is that this curve encodes several properties of the pair [Formula: see text]. In particular, the existence of a fibration of [Formula: see text] over a variety of smaller dimension induced by a suitable adjoint bundle to [Formula: see text] translates into the fact that the Hilbert curve has a quite special shape. Along this line, Hilbert curves of special varieties like Fano manifolds with low coindex, as well as fibrations over low-dimensional varieties having such a manifold as general fiber, endowed with appropriate polarizations, are investigated. In particular, several polarized manifolds relevant for adjunction theory are completely characterized in terms of their Hilbert curves.